The Resolution Room

Damien Van Brunschot
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MANAGEMENT

As someone who's always had a keen interest in the dynamics of leadership and the intricacies of mediation and negotiation, I found myself at a crossroads where I wanted to connect the dots between these passions and my professional journey. This is how "The Resolution Room" was born. A podcast designed to discuss topics around leadership, mediation, negotiation and team building. You might wonder, why the name "The Resolution Room"? This title encapsulates the dual purpose of my mission at Evolve Resolve: resolving claims and elevating leadership. I've found that in professional services, many people overlook the transition required to move from being a skilled technician to becoming an effective people leader. This transition is both a challenge and an opportunity - one I intend to explore through my podcast, with insights from my own experiences and conversations with insightful guests. The podcast is an avenue not only for me to share my insights and learnings but also to engage with like-minded individuals who are curious about leadership and resolution. I hope you'll find value in the conversations that unfold in The Resolution Room. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Links: Website: https://www.evolveresolve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damien-van-brunschot-95b05755/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@evolveresolve

  1. Avoidance Behaviour and Impostor Phenomenon in Professional Services with Michael Schiffner

    3 DAYS AGO

    Avoidance Behaviour and Impostor Phenomenon in Professional Services with Michael Schiffner

    Michael Schiffner has spent years helping professionals get better at business development, and this conversation gets to the heart of why that matters. As the founder of Collective Intelligence and former National Business Development Coach at KPMG, Michael brings a practical and refreshing perspective to an area many lawyers still resist. We talk about why BD is such a pain point in professional services, why so many people confuse it with selling, and how that misunderstanding gets in the way of building strong, long term client relationships. A big part of the discussion focuses on what actually drives growth. Michael explains that effective business development is not about being pushy or performative. It is about trust, generosity, consistency, and staying front of mind. We also explore the research behind The Activator Advantage and the three behaviours that sit at the centre of it: commit, connect, and create. One of the more useful parts of the conversation is Michael’s challenge to the idea that only extroverted rainmakers succeed. He makes a compelling case that introverts can be highly effective in BD when they lean into their own strengths. We also spend time on the internal barriers that make BD harder than it needs to be. Fear of rejection, perfectionism, and competing commitments all show up in this conversation, along with the stories professionals tell themselves about why they are not naturally good at this part of the job. Michael shares how his coaching work, including his wisdom circles, helps people work through those patterns and build habits that are realistic and sustainable. If business development has ever felt awkward or unnatural, there is a lot in this conversation that will shift the way you think about it. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Michael Schiffner and the BD Problem 01:25 Why Professional Services Firms Struggle with BD 02:26 Business Development Versus Selling 05:49 Why Introverts Can Succeed in BD 09:10 The Activator Advantage 09:45 Commit, Connect, Create 14:00 Fear, Perfectionism, and Mindset Blocks 17:22 Wisdom Circles and Coaching 20:29 Hidden Barriers to Action 22:01 Why BD Is a Long Game Guest Links: LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelschiffner/ WEBSITE: https://collectiveintelligence.au/ More From Damien: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube WORK WITH ME: Book a Mediation or a 15-minute Discovery call with Damien: https://www.evolveresolve.com/booking Website: https://www.evolveresolve.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/damien-van-brunschot YouTube: @evolveresolve Email: damien@evolveresolve.com

    26 min
  2. The Data Behind Your Workplace Culture with David Talbot of Talbot Mills Research

    24 MAR

    The Data Behind Your Workplace Culture with David Talbot of Talbot Mills Research

    I sat down with researcher and political pollster David Talbot (Talbot Mills/The Enactor Group) to discuss his background in politics and polling, including his work with Jacinda Ardern during COVID. We also unpacked his workplace culture survey and what it means for generational engagement and leadership. David explained the methodology: around 1,000 Australians were surveyed using a weighted, census-matched representative sample. We discussed how pay and job security remain the top drivers when choosing a job across all age groups, including those aged 18–29 (pay 56%, security 51%), pushing back on myths that workplace perks attract Gen Z. We explored what respondents define as a ‘good workplace culture’—a non-toxic environment (19%), mutual respect (17%), and teamwork (15%)—and why most people are positive about their current workplaces despite nearly half dreading work and concerns about office politics. We also covered how under-30s prioritise career development and mobility, as well as the sharp AI anxiety among younger workers, with 62% expecting their job could be replaced within five years, with implications for morale, retention, and policy.

    21 min
  3. Shine Lawyers Managing Director Simon Morrison on 38 Years at the Firm

    10 MAR

    Shine Lawyers Managing Director Simon Morrison on 38 Years at the Firm

    I recently caught up with Simon Morrison, Managing Director of Shine Lawyers, for a proper behind the scenes chat about what it’s like to spend 38 years inside one firm and still be hungry for what’s next. Simon and I both come from Toowoomba and went to St Mary’s, so there’s a shared thread running through the conversation, but the real story is how a small local practice became one of the biggest names in the country. Simon takes us back to 1988 when he joined Shine and the firm was tiny, doing mostly conveyancing, and then walks through the moments that changed everything. We talk about the late 1990s push interstate, why they made the call, what they learned the hard way, and how Shine grew into a national firm known for personal injury and class actions. It’s a candid look at growth that wasn’t always neat, but was always deliberate. We also get into the bigger swings, including Shine’s move onto the ASX and what it’s like running a listed law firm with the scoreboard ticking over every day. Simon shares why he’s now spending serious time building Shine’s international presence, particularly in the United States and New Zealand, and what’s driving that ambition. If you’re interested in leadership, long game career decisions, and how big firms actually expand, you’ll get a lot out of this one. Guest Links: https://www.shine.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-morrison-087434/ More From Damien: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube

    26 min
  4. Transforming Resolution with Trauma-Informed Mediation: Julie Somerville

    24 FEB

    Transforming Resolution with Trauma-Informed Mediation: Julie Somerville

    In this episode of The Resolution Room, I sit down with Julie Somerville, a former solicitor turned mediator who has built a national reputation for her trauma-informed approach. Julie has been recognised in the New South Wales market, listed in Doyles for the last five years, and named Mediator of the Year (Australian ADR Awards) in 2022. We talk about why trauma-informed practice matters in civil claims, and what it looks like when a mediator is deliberately designing the process to support better decision-making. Julie shares what drew her into mediation, including her experience in defendant practice and the shift she saw in the post Royal Commission environment. We discuss the kinds of matters she mediates now, including sensitive and highly emotional claims such as historical abuse, birth trauma, nervous shock, catastrophic events, and compensation to relatives claims. We also explore why traditional, lawyer-driven approaches can fall short in these settings, and what lawyers on both sides can do to better support their clients through the process. We then unpack the practical tools and mindset behind trauma-informed mediation. Julie explains trauma at a high level, how it can show up in the room, and why it can affect a person’s ability to process advice and make decisions. She also shares examples of how small, thoughtful process choices can change the tone and safety of a mediation, and we finish with a candid discussion about vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, and the self-care systems Julie uses to stay present in demanding work. Guest Links: R3 Resolution's Website: https://r3resolutions.com.au/Julie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliesomerville/Law Society of Scotland Trauma-Informed Justice Modules: https://www.lawscot.org.uk/members/cpd-training/online-cpd/trauma-informed-training/Legal Society of New South Wales Trauma-Informed Legal Assistance: https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/for-lawyers/professional-development/lawyer-education-series/trauma-informed-legal-assistanceWhat is Trauma-Informed Mediation: https://r3resolutions.com.au/what-is-trauma-informed-mediation-a-practical-explanation-for-lawyers-and-their-clients/ More From Damien: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube

    33 min
  5. Be Distinctive, Not Different: Law Firm Marketing with Dan Toombs

    10 FEB

    Be Distinctive, Not Different: Law Firm Marketing with Dan Toombs

    In this episode, I sit down with Dan Toombs, founder of law firm marketing agency Practice Proof, who took an unorthodox path from his early days at St Mary’s in Toowoomba into law, social justice work and eventually two decades at the forefront of digital strategy for lawyers. Dan understands the legal profession from the inside, which is exactly why his take on marketing feels both practical and grounded. We talk about what most law firms get wrong about “being different” and why the real goal is being distinctive. Dan unpacks brand salience and the long game of staying top of mind, plus we discuss a standout example from Shine Lawyers and how memorable branding can cut through a crowded market without relying on the usual legal clichés. We also explore StoryBrand and why positioning the client as the hero matters in professional services, particularly when clients are stressed, time poor and trying to make sense of a complex process. Finally, Dan shares his candid view on how AI is starting to reshape SEO and legal marketing, what is still unclear, and what firms should be paying attention to right now. Links: https://www.practiceproof.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketinglawfirms/ Website | LinkedIn | YouTube

    26 min
  6. Travis Schultz on Growing a Law Firm from 8 to 80 Employees Without Marketing

    27 JAN

    Travis Schultz on Growing a Law Firm from 8 to 80 Employees Without Marketing

    I recently sat down with Travis Schultz, a name deeply respected in the Queensland legal market and the founder of Travis Schultz and Partners. This episode is about leadership in personal injury law, what it takes to build a firm with a strong culture, and how to stay commercially sound without defaulting to the usual corporatised playbook. Travis and I go back to 1988 when we finished school, and we start by tracing his path from going straight into articles to stepping into partnership and management early, and what that hands on start taught him about both law and the business of law. We then unpack the origin story of Travis Schultz & Partners, including the market context in Queensland and the events that led Travis to start again after the Slater and Gordon acquisition of Schultz O’Brien. Travis shares what he set out to build, how the firm evolved, and why relationships and reputation still matter more than most people admit. Finally, we talk culture and leadership. Travis reflects on the choices he has made around how the firm operates, the behaviours he has tried to leave behind, and the practical lessons he has learned about autonomy, accountability, and addressing issues early. If you’re interested in the realities of running a modern law firm, this conversation is a grounded look at what that actually involves. Links: https://www.schultzlaw.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/travis-schultz-law/ Website | LinkedIn | YouTube

    26 min

  7. 13 JAN

    The Legal Profession’s Changing Attitude Toward Coaching with Lara Wentworth

    Sitting down with Lara Wentworth, former lawyer turned coach and founder of Coaching Advocates, was a timely reminder that many in the legal profession spend years occupying a chair that doesn’t quite fit. Lara’s journey from legal practice to coaching is a testament to the value of self-discovery and the courage to carve out a new path. Through Coaching Advocates, she has created a space where lawyers can seek clarity, direction and genuine growth, guided by coaches who have walked the same path and understand the unique challenges of the profession. Our conversation explores the real difference between mentoring and coaching. While mentoring is often about offering advice, coaching is about facilitating self-reflection and unlocking potential. Lara emphasises the importance of accredited coaching, ensuring that lawyers receive support from those who not only understand the law but are also trained to guide meaningful change. We discussed the perfectionism that is so common among lawyers and how coaching can help address the deep-seated beliefs and behaviours that hold people back, fostering resilience and a healthier approach to both career and life. What resonated most was the growing recognition that well-being and professional success go hand in hand. Lara’s work, including her podcast The Speed Coach, is helping to demystify coaching for lawyers and encourage the profession to embrace new ways of working and thinking. In a legal world where career paths are no longer linear, finding your own chair and having the right support to do so has never been more important. If you are feeling out of place in your current role, perhaps it is time to consider what coaching could unlock for you. Links: https://www.larawentworth.com.au/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-wentworth-265864b5/  https://coachingadvocates.com/legal-career-accelerator/  Website | LinkedIn | YouTube

    32 min

  8. 30/12/2025

    Purpose, Progress and Policy with Former Queensland Attorney-General Hon. Shannon Fentiman

    I recently sat down with Shannon Fentiman, Former Queensland Attorney-General, Queensland’s Shadow Treasurer, Shadow Minister for Women and Member for Waterford since 2015. Shannon’s journey from employment lawyer and community advocate to holding some of the state’s most significant ministerial portfolios is a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership. Raised on the Gold Coast and deeply committed to social justice, Shannon has always called Queensland home. Her early influences, a family of strong women and a pioneering aunt in the legal field, set her on a path to fight discrimination and unfairness, both in the workplace and the wider community. Shannon’s legal background, with degrees from QUT and the University of Melbourne, provided a strong foundation for her political career. Before entering Parliament, she worked as an employment lawyer and volunteered with organisations such as the Centre Against Sexual Violence and the Centre for Women in Logan. Her ministerial experience is extensive, having served as Attorney General, Minister for Child Safety, Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Small Business, Employment and Training and Health. Throughout, Shannon has been at the forefront of major reforms, including the Women’s Safety and Justice Task Force and voluntary assisted dying legislation. She spoke candidly about how her legal training sharpened her negotiation skills and ability to navigate the emotional and practical complexities of policy reform. Empathy, she noted, is central to her leadership, an approach shaped by her years of community work and her commitment to visibility and compassion in public life. Now serving in opposition, Shannon reflected on the transition from government to holding government to account. While the pace may be different, she’s found space for reflection, critical thinking and personal renewal, balancing family time and personal pursuits with her ongoing passion for policy and reform. Our conversation was a powerful reminder of the impact empathetic, principled leadership can have on both legal and political landscapes and left me inspired by Shannon’s clarity of purpose and optimism for the future. Links: https://www.shannonfentiman.com/ Website | LinkedIn | YouTube

    33 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

As someone who's always had a keen interest in the dynamics of leadership and the intricacies of mediation and negotiation, I found myself at a crossroads where I wanted to connect the dots between these passions and my professional journey. This is how "The Resolution Room" was born. A podcast designed to discuss topics around leadership, mediation, negotiation and team building. You might wonder, why the name "The Resolution Room"? This title encapsulates the dual purpose of my mission at Evolve Resolve: resolving claims and elevating leadership. I've found that in professional services, many people overlook the transition required to move from being a skilled technician to becoming an effective people leader. This transition is both a challenge and an opportunity - one I intend to explore through my podcast, with insights from my own experiences and conversations with insightful guests. The podcast is an avenue not only for me to share my insights and learnings but also to engage with like-minded individuals who are curious about leadership and resolution. I hope you'll find value in the conversations that unfold in The Resolution Room. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Links: Website: https://www.evolveresolve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damien-van-brunschot-95b05755/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@evolveresolve

Information

  • Creator
    Damien Van Brunschot
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Evolve Resolve
  • Show Website
    The Resolution Room

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