Mediator Sonja Wood shares her journey from chemistry to mediation, facing discrimination and lack of conflict training in Europe. She discusses navigating cultural differences, moving to Texas, and utilizing high conflict methods like BIFF. Sonja emphasizes the importance of conflict resolution skills, continuous education, and supporting mediation in Texas. Tune in for valuable insights on constructive resolution and dealing with high conflict personalities.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
From Chemistry to Conflict Resolution
Sonja Wood transitioned from a chemistry background to mediation after experiencing discrimination and lack of conflict resolution in her engineering job.
She witnessed dysfunctional communication in various European companies, particularly in Eastern Europe where cultural differences and sexism were prevalent.
insights INSIGHT
Universal Communication Issues
Communication issues are universal, regardless of country or culture.
However, cultural differences and power imbalances can exacerbate these issues, particularly in conservative environments.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Seeking Conflict Resolution Skills
Sonja Wood's attempts to address conflict within her company were met with closed doors, leading her to seek external conflict resolution training.
She began with a nine-month mediation course in Germany while still working, driven by a desire to manage conflict effectively.
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Welcome to another insightful discussion with Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter as they welcome mediator Sonja Wood. Bill and Megan chat with Sonja about her fascinating journey from chemistry to mediation. Sonja discusses her experiences facing discrimination and a lack of conflict training in Europe that pushed her to study mediation. She shares navigating cultural differences working across countries and her transition to life in Texas. Bill and Megan are keen to learn how Sonja utilizes high conflict methods like BIFF in her work.
Sonja reflects on encountering closed doors trying to address issues at her former company and deciding to gain conflict resolution skills instead. She took German mediation training before attaining Texas certification and specializing in civil and business mediation. Sonja values continuing education, most recently in positive psychology. Bill and Megan admire Sonja actively supporting mediation across the Lone Star State in volunteer work and through her Texas Association of Mediators chairship.
Whether considering mediation or dealing with disputes yourself, tune in for valuable insight on constructive resolution from this esteemed guest. Sonja's perseverance achieving success across cultures proves issues are solvable when approached with understanding, like the high conflict methods advocated by the High Conflict Institute.
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