The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations

Chris Wong & Lucie Tesarova
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Management
  • Updated Weekly

Ever had to have that difficult conversation with someone that you dreaded? You are not alone. Join us to explore how to improve how you handle difficult conversations with your team or loved ones. When we communicate better, we lead better, we perform better, we have better relationships, results and ultimately, a better life. Ready to learn? Make sure you subscribe so you don't miss any future episode. Want to be a guest on our podcast? Let us know! https://bit.ly/3z4Sn5w

  1. 19h ago

    How to facilitate heavy group topics (Part 2 with Frank Velasquez, Jr.)

    In part 2 of their conversation, Frank joins Chris and Lucie to talk through the steps of facilitating restorative circles, the preparation that makes group conversations successful, and the secrets of facilitating well.  Together, they go through practical tips for facilitators and leaders to create safe, impactful spaces for dialogue and healing.  Key Takeaways:  Setting the right container is crucial for meaningful conversations.  Preparation involves both logistical planning and internal readiness.  Facilitators should be flexible and follow organic conversation cues.  Incorporating joy and positive memories helps balance heavy topics.  Facilitators need to recognize emotional fatigue and practice self-care.   About Frank (He/Him/His) Storyteller Extraordinaire, Social Justice Warrior, and Relationship Cultivator! In relentless pursuit of racial and gender equity, Frank’s warmth brings folks together to talk through the tough stuff. To Frank, every person’s story matters like each ingredient in a yummy bowl of gumbo. Each standing on its own, but together making something unforgettable. From major conferences like the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, AFP ICON, and AFP Lead to training rooms everywhere from Walt Disney World to the MGM Grand Las Vegas, Frank has reached thousands of folks with narratives that just hit different, leaving each group invigorated with his unique blend of storytelling magic, quick wit, and social justice fire!As the Founder of 4 Da Hood and the visionary behind the Ascending Leaders in Color leadership program, Frank forges pathways for Peeps of Color to step into their power - authentically, courageously, and with unapologetic joy. Because for Frank, advancing equity isn’t just a job - it's about thriving in a world our ancestors dreamed for us, a world where communities of color have the same access and opportunity to build their generational wealth.And he's doing it one connection, one story, one courageous conversation at a time. Connect with Frank: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fvelasquezjr/ Contact Frank directly: frank@4dahood.com 4DaHood -  https://4dahood.com   Connect with us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    23 min

  2. Jun 23

    How to use Restorative Justice Circles to lead better groups (Part 1 with Frank Velasquez Jr.)

    In this week’s episode, Frank Velásquez Jr. joins Chris and Lucie to share his journey into restorative justice, leadership as a person of color, and how restorative circles can transform organizational culture. Discover practical insights on authentic leadership, facilitation, and creating safe spaces for difficult conversations.  Leaders of color often struggle with authenticity due to organizational and societal pressures. The importance of being authentic to yourself What are Restorative Justice Circles and how are they different from other types of group facilitation? How can you use agreements to change the tone of your group sessions  About Frank (He/Him/His) Storyteller Extraordinaire, Social Justice Warrior, and Relationship Cultivator! In relentless pursuit of racial and gender equity, Frank’s warmth brings folks together to talk through the tough stuff. To Frank, every person’s story matters like each ingredient in a yummy bowl of gumbo. Each standing on its own, but together making something unforgettable. From major conferences like the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, AFP ICON, and AFP Lead to training rooms everywhere from Walt Disney World to the MGM Grand Las Vegas, Frank has reached thousands of folks with narratives that just hit different, leaving each group invigorated with his unique blend of storytelling magic, quick wit, and social justice fire!As the Founder of 4 Da Hood and the visionary behind the Ascending Leaders in Color leadership program, Frank forges pathways for Peeps of Color to step into their power - authentically, courageously, and with unapologetic joy. Because for Frank, advancing equity isn’t just a job - it's about thriving in a world our ancestors dreamed for us, a world where communities of color have the same access and opportunity to build their generational wealth.And he's doing it one connection, one story, one courageous conversation at a time. Connect with Frank: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankvelasquezjr/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/frankvelasquezjr Restorative Justice Practices - International Institute for Restorative Practices - https://www.iirp.edu/ 4DaHood - Organization founded by Frank Velásquez Jr. - https://4dahood.org/ Ascending Leaders of Color Program - https://ascendingleaders.org/ Connect with us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    21 min

  3. Jun 16

    How to Communicate as a Leader when Times are Tough

    In this episode, Will Hobart shares insights on leadership, transparency, managing anxiety, and building trust within organizations. Discover practical strategies for effective communication and authentic leadership in challenging times. About our guest:   Will Hobart is an education leader, strategist, and nonprofit executive with more than 15 years of experience helping organizations navigate complex challenges, build strong partnerships, and create opportunities for student success. His career has included roles as a middle school teacher, school district administrator, and nonprofit leader, providing a unique perspective on how communication, trust, and collaboration drive meaningful change.  Throughout his career, Will has led efforts to expand college access, strengthen career pathways, and improve outcomes for young people. He is passionate about bringing people together across diverse perspectives to solve complex problems and create lasting impact.  Will believes that many of the most important breakthroughs in organizations and communities begin with honest, courageous conversations. He has led teams through periods of growth, uncertainty, and transformation, and has seen how empathy, curiosity, and clarity can strengthen relationships and move people toward shared goals. Contact Will:  Will Hobart - LinkedIn Golden Apple Foundation for Excellence in Teaching Connect with us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    22 min

  4. Jun 9

    Balancing empathy and performance in leadership

    How do you align a team that doesn't seem to be reading the same page, or even the same book? In Part 1 of our conversation with nonprofit leader Will Hobart, we dig into one of the hardest tensions in leadership: caring deeply about your people while still driving toward clear goals and results. Will shares the lessons that shaped him, from a fifth-grade conflict-resolution program to the rigid, resource-constrained world of public education, to scaling a 90-year-old nonprofit. Along the way, he gets honest about the moment hard feedback forced him to confront the gap between his intent and his impact, and how he learned that his team's different needs and ambitions weren't a lack of drive but just a different seat at the table. If you've ever felt pulled between the strategy you're accountable for and the empathy your team needs from you, this one's for you.   About our guest:   Will Hobart is an education leader, strategist, and nonprofit executive with more than 15 years of experience helping organizations navigate complex challenges, build strong partnerships, and create opportunities for student success. His career has included roles as a middle school teacher, school district administrator, and nonprofit leader, providing a unique perspective on how communication, trust, and collaboration drive meaningful change.  Throughout his career, Will has led efforts to expand college access, strengthen career pathways, and improve outcomes for young people. He is passionate about bringing people together across diverse perspectives to solve complex problems and create lasting impact.  Will believes that many of the most important breakthroughs in organizations and communities begin with honest, courageous conversations. He has led teams through periods of growth, uncertainty, and transformation, and has seen how empathy, curiosity, and clarity can strengthen relationships and move people toward shared goals. Contact us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    39 min

  5. Jun 2

    Unlock Your Potential with CIDER Strategies: A Step-by-Step Guide

    In this interview with leadership coach Lucie Tesarova, Tina Paulus-Krause shares her transformative methodology, CIDER strategies, designed to help individuals achieve clarity, set intentions, maintain discipline, and manage energy for personal and professional growth. Discover practical tools for self-awareness, overcoming burnout, and creating a meaningful leadership legacy. 00:04 The CIDER Methodology for Transformation 12:16 Self-Awareness and Grace in Leadership 16:11 Key Takeaways and Legacy in Leadership Resources & Links Tina Paulus Krause - Official Website Your Leadership Legacy Podcast Connect with Tina: LinkedIn Website Contact us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    24 min

  6. May 26

    From Burnout to Bliss: Transformational Leadership and Self-Awareness with Tina Paulus Krause (part 1)

    In this inspiring interview, Tina Pullous Kraus shares her transformative journey from burnout and personal struggles to becoming a transformation trainer. Discover practical insights on emotional intelligence, authentic leadership, and how to create lasting change in your life and relationships. Chapters 00:00 From Burnout to Bliss: A Personal Journey 04:54 Generational Healing and Transformation 10:18 Awareness and Emotional Intelligence 13:47 Difficult Conversations: Starting with Ourselves 18:18 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Shame 23:11 Redefining Leadership: Collaboration Over Control 25:05 Defining Core Values Resources & Links Tina Paulus Krause - Official Website Your Leadership Legacy Podcast Connect with Tina: LinkedIn Website Contact us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    33 min

  7. May 19

    How to address underperformance when the employee is a friend (Part 2 with Ashley Cox)

    In our follow up to last week’s episode, Ashley and Chris continue talking about navigating difficult conversations, especially when dealing with friends or family in a professional setting.  Especially when they start bringing things back up or get more defensive, it can feel like you’re on the edge of losing an employee AND a friend.  Hear how Ashley walks us through: -          How to address underperformance in friends or family. -          How to maintain your humanity to be an effective leader. -          How to set clear boundaries and expectations prevent future conflicts. -          How to use empathy and understanding to resolve issues with friends or family. -          How to take ownership to turn problems into opportunities for growth.   About Ashley Ashley Cox, PHR, SHRM-CP is a leadership mentor for ambitious women business owners who have a team but no time. She empowers them to become courageous and confident leaders, and build high-performance teams they can trust and rely on (without constantly chasing them to get things done). Ashley is also a sought-after speaker, author of the book Transform Your Stories, and host of The Impact Ripple Podcast   Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleycox.co Book: www.ashleycox.co/transform Podcast: www.ashleycox.co/podcast  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyncox Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleycox.co Facebook: www.facebook.com/ashleycox.co   Contact us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    21 min

  8. May 12

    How can women in leadership thrive? (Part 1 with Ashley Cox)

    In this week’s interview, Ashley Cox, a leadership mentor and expert in women in business, joins Chris to share her insights on leadership, gender dynamics, and building successful, people-centered businesses.  Lucie, unfortunately couldn’t make it, but Ashley and Chris still had a great time talking about the specific barriers that women face.  Together, Ashley talks about:  How to balance profitability with compassion  The unique barriers that women face  How to reframe some of the mindsets women are raised with  About Ashley Ashley Cox, PHR, SHRM-CP is a leadership mentor for ambitious women business owners who have a team but no time. She empowers them to become courageous and confident leaders, and build high-performance teams they can trust and rely on (without constantly chasing them to get things done). Ashley is also a sought-after speaker, author of the book Transform Your Stories, and host of The Impact Ripple Podcast Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleycox.co Book: www.ashleycox.co/transform Podcast: www.ashleycox.co/podcast  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyncox Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleycox.co Facebook: www.facebook.com/ashleycox.co   Contact us:  Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com Chris – https://www.myleadershippotential.com | www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc | download the Difficult Conversation Playbook for Leaders Lucie – www.mindfittery.com | www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova and take the Saboteur Assessment

    21 min
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5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Ever had to have that difficult conversation with someone that you dreaded? You are not alone. Join us to explore how to improve how you handle difficult conversations with your team or loved ones. When we communicate better, we lead better, we perform better, we have better relationships, results and ultimately, a better life. Ready to learn? Make sure you subscribe so you don't miss any future episode. Want to be a guest on our podcast? Let us know! https://bit.ly/3z4Sn5w

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