Conflict Skills

Simon Goode
  • 4.9 (7)
  • Management
  • Updated Fortnightly

Simon Goode is a professional mediator and the host of the Conflict Skills Podcast, where he offers free resources and tools to navigate conflicts both in and out of the workplace. With a focus on practical strategies, Simon’s podcast addresses real-world scenarios, providing listeners with the tools to handle disputes effectively. In his recent episodes, he delves into the intricacies of workplace mediation, using case studies like conflicts between managers and staff members to illustrate his points. Simon's expertise and approachable style make his podcast an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their conflict resolution skills.

  1. 16 June

    Essential Ground Rules for Successful Workplace Mediation

    In this episode, Simon Goode outlines the importance of setting clear ground rules for workplace mediation to foster productive and respectful conversations. He explains his collaborative approach to developing these guidelines, emphasizing rules such as no interrupting, no insults, and avoiding assumptions, while also discussing adjustments for more contentious cases. The episode provides practical advice for mediators, HR professionals, and managers on structuring discussions and managing challenging dynamics in workplace conflicts. 00:00 Setting Ground Rules for Meetings 03:50 Setting ground rules for discussions 09:14 Dealing with contentious cases 13:23 Managing Meeting Conflicts 16:08 Discussing mediation agenda setup 17:53 Mediation ground rules discussion 21:20 Audience feedback request Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    22 min

  2. 15 June

    Four Restorative Questions to Stop Rumination After Conflict

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores the topic of rumination, particularly in the context of conflict, and demonstrates his personal reflective practice to address intrusive thoughts. He walks through Terry O’Connell’s four restorative justice questions as a practical framework for understanding and moving past mistakes, using his own recent podcasting misstep as an example. The episode highlights the importance of self-reflection, understanding cognitive patterns in conflict, and applying structured techniques to reduce rumination and promote personal growth. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Rumination on workplace conflicts 04:38 Restorative justice program discussion 09:48 Dealing with podcast anxiety 12:46 Understanding Workplace Conflict Dynamics 14:35 Admitting to a podcast mistake 18:49 Reflecting on justifying my actions 23:31 Editing and self-doubt in podcasting 27:06 Reflecting on mental health perspectives 28:31 Reflecting on self-awareness and judgment 33:49 Reflecting on past actions 35:15 Addressing Past Mistakes Reflective practice is one of the most effective tools for dealing with rumination—especially when it stems from conflict situations at work. In the latest episode of the Conflict Skills Podcast, I unpack my own recent experience with rumination after an honest mistake on the podcast, and demonstrate the four-question reflective technique I rely on to break the negative thought cycle. Here are three key takeaways that might help you when you find yourself stuck in rumination: Structure Your Reflection: Use a simple, four-question framework (borrowed from restorative justice) to guide your self-inquiry:What happened?What were you thinking at the time?What have you been thinking about since?What needs to happen to make it right?Focus on Objectivity and Nuance: When you revisit the “what happened” question, keep coming back to the objective facts, resisting the urge to justify or catastrophize. This helps introduce nuance and reduce the black-and-white thinking often tied to rumination.Plan Concrete Actions for Resolution: Don’t just reflect—ask yourself what practical steps are needed to make it right, even if you can’t change the past. Sometimes an apology, improved process, or small act of restitution can help you restore your own peace of mind.We all react imperfectly under stress, but having a reflective routine helps us move forward with more grace and responsibility. If you’re interested in developing your own conflict skills or want additional resources on handling workplace challenges, check out the latest episode or get in touch! Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    37 min

  3. 12 June

    The Power of the Pre-Emptive Thank You Wave: Unlocking Pre-Emptive Empathy in Conflict

    On today's Conflict Skills Podcast, we explored the power of the "preemptive thank you wave"—a communication technology I developed to assume the best in people before conflict even starts. By showing empathy and gratitude ahead of time, you can transform interactions, unlock opportunities, and get better outcomes in business and life.  Whether you’re dealing with customers, teams, or strangers, try preemptive empathy. It’s a mindset shift that opens doors you didn’t even know existed.  Want more tools for effective conflict resolution? Hit subscribe and join us next time 😊. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Risky street crossing stories 03:19 Teenage pranks and consequences 08:32 Mindset shift to preemptive empathy 11:14 Impact of mindset on brain activity 13:32 Trying to cancel a hotel booking 17:22 Impact of Modern Communication Tech Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    20 min

  4. 4 June ·  Video

    Managing Pushy Clients: Conflict Strategies for Business Owners and Coaches

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores strategies for managing pushy clients, particularly those with unrealistic expectations or disruptive behaviors. He introduces tools such as types of conflict, the Thomas-Kilmann conflict modes, and adjusting one’s perspective, using a real client situation as an example. By reflecting on emotional triggers and structured options, Simon  demonstrates how to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Benefits of a structured process 04:43 Understanding relationship conflict with clients 07:29 Reflecting on email communications 13:39 Addressing workshop coordination issues 15:28 Pricing strategy and client communication 19:24 Handling client payment issues 24:15 Discussing collaboration and promotion options 27:40 Reflecting and planning for the future 30:04 Understanding Thoughts and Feelings 33:39 Managing stress through self-care Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    35 min

  5. 1 June ·  Video

    Insights on Conflict, Self-Regulation, and Philosophical Humility

    Welcome to the Conflict Skills Podcast, hosted by professional mediator Simon Goode. This episode marks a personal milestone, as Simon Goode reflects on his 45th birthday and the lessons learned through years of mediating conflict in both personal and professional settings. Drawing from hundreds of mediations—from business disputes to family disagreements—Simon Goode shares key insights about effective listening, self-regulation, and the importance of language. He delves into how frameworks and models can help us “zoom in” or “zoom out” when analyzing conflict, and explores broader philosophical questions about consciousness, perception, and the complexity of human behavior. Whether you’re looking to improve your conflict resolution skills at work or at home, this episode offers practical takeaways, honest reflections, and a reminder that understanding ourselves is at the heart of managing disputes successfully. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Workplace conflict and self-regulation 03:07 Emphasizing the power of listening 09:24 Learning to manage reactions 13:12 Understanding conflict through frameworks 15:15 The importance of language in conflict 19:22 Nuance in conflict resolution 23:49 Exploring ethics and free will 25:30 Embracing curiosity in neuroscience Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    28 min

  6. 27 May

    Confront or Ignore: Navigating Rooster Noise Disputes With Neighborly Tact

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores practical options for addressing a neighbor’s noisy rooster, from direct conversations using frameworks like the sandwich method and "what ask check," to anonymous letters or simply choosing to ignore the issue. Simon discusses the pros and cons of each approach, including the emotional and relational impacts involved. Ultimately, he emphasizes the importance of thoughtful communication and self-reflection when managing neighborhood conflicts. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Dealing with noisy neighbors 06:08 Describing the neighborhood family setup 07:10 Dealing with neighbor tension 10:48 Discussing Backyard Chickens and Noise 14:22 Discussing consequences and behaviour 18:54 Dealing with a noisy neighbor's dog 21:48 Writing a considerate anonymous letter 22:55 Approaching conflict with respect 26:12 Addressing the rooster problem 32:01 Understanding emotional brain processes 35:31 Dealing with difficult neighbors 36:43 Ending the conversation Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    37 min

  7. 25 May

    Adapting To Change In The Workplace: Practical Frameworks

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores how individuals and leaders can effectively manage communication and conflict during periods of change, emphasizing the importance of self-regulation and support for others. He introduces frameworks like the circles of control, influence, and acceptance, and discusses practical strategies such as mindfulness and the GROW coaching model. Simon Goode also reflects on the nuances of acceptance, advocating for a more strategic approach to letting go or taking action as situations evolve. ---------------- 00:00 Adapting to Change and Conflict 04:02 Managing emotions in conversations 07:13 Five factor self framework overview 13:05 Creating Conditions for Success 15:54 Exploring Options and Taking Action 19:13 Discussing strategic acceptance ---------------- Hi everyone, Thanks for being part of the Conflict Skills Podcast community! In our latest episode, Simon Goode explores how we can better manage communication and conflict during times of change—especially from a leadership or management perspective. Here are some key takeaways and resources to help you face change with confidence and clarity. Self-Regulation is the Foundation Before we can support others, we need to manage ourselves. Simon Goode reminds us that true self-control isn’t always as straightforward as “just choose to respond calmly”—our physiological state and context matter. He builds on the traditional idea of the “circle of control,” introducing a five-factor framework for self-regulation: The Five Factors: Thoughts: The stories and narratives we tell ourselvesFeelings: Emotional reactions, from gut instincts to strong emotionsPerception: Deliberately shifting what you focus on (like mindfulness exercises)Physical Body: Your physiological state; small actions like eating, showering, or moving can helpBehavior: The actions you actually takeBy addressing these factors—even something as simple as wiggling your toes or changing your environment—you can improve your self-regulation and set the stage for more effective interactions. Circles of Influence (and Acceptance) Once we’ve worked on self-regulation, we can turn to the circle of influence—the area where we can affect change, especially in our teams and relationships. Simon Goode references the GROW coaching model to guide conversations: Goal: What matters most right now?Reality: What’s actually happening?Options: What could we try?Way forward: What steps will we take?Finally, the circle of acceptance is about choosing what to let go of and when. But Simon Goode invites us to see this less as giving up, and more as strategic acceptance: What is okay to let go for now? What still needs your advocacy or action, even if it can’t be changed immediately? Reflect & Connect How do you manage your speech, tone, or expressions during stressful transitions?What triggers make self-control most difficult?Where can you create better conditions for yourself and your team to thrive through change?Simon Goode would love to hear your thoughts! Reply to this email or write to podcast@simongood.com. Additional Resources: Listen to the latest episode for a deeper dive into these frameworksFree resources and upcoming online courses available soon—keep an eye on your inbox!Thank you for being with us. Remember, being present and mindful is a conflict skill in itself. See you next time, The Conflict Skills Podcast Team Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    21 min

  8. 21 Apr

    Unfair Workload In Small Teams: Strategies to Respond Assertively

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores a workplace conflict scenario where a colleague repeatedly leaves unfinished work for others at the last minute, discussing various options for addressing the situation. Simon Goode breaks down the conflict using a five-type framework—data, relationship, structure, interest, and values—offering practical strategies for each. He emphasizes that there isn't a single right approach, and encourages listeners to consider their own boundaries and needs before deciding how to respond. ------------ For more conflict resolution resources visit simongoode.com.  simongoode.com -------------- How to Respond When a Colleague Dumps Last-Minute Work On Your Plate Have you ever found yourself picking up unfinished tasks from a colleague who leaves early, only to feel burned out and underappreciated? In my latest Conflict Skills Podcast episode, I dive into a case where one team member is left cleaning up after another—exploring practical strategies to address the pattern without escalating conflict or seeming "difficult". Here are my 3 key takeaways for handling these tricky situations: Understand the Types of Conflict: Not all workplace friction is the same. Consider whether the core issue is about structure (how work is allocated), interests (who wants what), values (subjective expectations around teamwork), data (clarity of job roles), or relationships (interpersonal attitudes).Normalize Different Perspectives: When discussing the problem, acknowledge both your own and others’ viewpoints. Phrasing like “I know in other teams, this was common, but I find last-minute requests challenging. Could we talk about ways to improve notice?” keeps the tone neutral and solution-focused.Explore Structural Solutions: Sometimes, the best fix lies in changing processes. Suggest regular check-ins about workloads, redesign deadlines, or clarify what constitutes a fair division of labor to prevent future bottlenecks.Conflict is inevitable, but with the right tools, you can address it constructively and protect your well-being. Want more tips for handling workplace challenges? Listen to the full episode or connect with me for resources! #ConflictResolution #WorkplaceSkills #Teamwork #ProfessionalDevelopment Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail Support the show Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.  website: simongoode.com  email: podcast@simongoode.com

    20 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Simon Goode is a professional mediator and the host of the Conflict Skills Podcast, where he offers free resources and tools to navigate conflicts both in and out of the workplace. With a focus on practical strategies, Simon’s podcast addresses real-world scenarios, providing listeners with the tools to handle disputes effectively. In his recent episodes, he delves into the intricacies of workplace mediation, using case studies like conflicts between managers and staff members to illustrate his points. Simon's expertise and approachable style make his podcast an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their conflict resolution skills.

Information

  • Creator
    Simon Goode
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    108
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Simon Goode
  • Show Website
    Conflict Skills

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