BigDeal

#114 How CEO’s Handle Difficult Conversations (Ways I Wish Someone Had Told Me)

76 snips
Jan 20, 2026
Discover the secrets to handling toxic individuals with nine powerful strategies. Learn how to control conversations by mastering frame control and understanding why calm, assertive people often prevail. Explore the concept of motivated reasoning and uncover the asymmetries that advantage toxic behavior. Gain insights into effective communication techniques, including the CLEAN framework and how to counter gaslighting. Lastly, shift your focus from emotional battles to structural wins, equipping yourself to reclaim your power.
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INSIGHT

Why The Loudest Person Often Wins

  • Toxic people win not because they're smarter but because they show low emotional reactivity and high certainty.
  • Clarity and simplicity beat correctness in high-conflict communication.
ADVICE

Pause To Control The Frame

  • Control the frame by pausing and signaling you need time before replying.
  • Respond with a short, un-nuanced line to regain conversational authority.
ADVICE

Use The Disrespect Response Ladder

  • Use the disrespect response ladder and aim for name plus redirect instead of reacting.
  • Calmly set a boundary and offer a choice to continue or step away.
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