The Fight Less Club

Evelyn Marley

The Fight Less Club is where conflict stops being the enemy and starts becoming the teacher. Hosted by Evelyn Marley, conflict coach and communication coach, this podcast dives into the messy, real-life moments of relationships. Each episode blends practical tools with fresh perspectives, helping you navigate disagreements with more clarity, compassion, and connection. Whether you’re in a marriage, a friendship, or a family dynamic, The Fight Less Club shows you how to break cycles of resentment, repair faster, and actually grow closer through conflict.

  1. APR 23

    Episode 31: Navigating High Conflict People with Bill Eddy

    In this episode, I’m joined by Bill Eddy—founder of the High Conflict Institute and a leader in the fields of mediation and conflict resolution. We talk about the complexities of high conflict personalities and the emotional dynamics that make certain discussions difficult to manage. Drawing from his background as both a therapist and a lawyer, Bill shares practical strategies for mediators, therapists, and anyone navigating emotionally charged conversations. We talk about the EAR method (Empathy, Attention, Respect), the BIFF approach (Brief, Informative, Friendly, Firm), and how social media fuels conflict dynamics. Whether you’re dealing with legal disputes, family disagreements, or tough workplace conversations, this episode is packed with insights on how to manage conflict more effectively—without losing your cool. 00:00 – Introduction to High Conflict Dynamics 02:59 – Bill's Journey from Therapy to Law 05:53 – What Defines a High Conflict Personality 09:13 – Mediation Techniques & Emotional Insight 11:08 – The Role of Emotion in Conflict 15:34 – The EAR Method: Empathy, Attention, Respect 22:52 – BIFF Responses: Brief, Informative, Friendly, Firm 33:07 – How Social Media Escalates Conflict 44:12 – Practical Tips for Handling High Conflict Situations Find Bill Eddy: High Conflict Institute Connect with Evelyn Marley: Instagram: @evelynmarley Website: www.evelynmarleycoaching.com Download the Free Guide: 10 Ways to Say What You Mean (Without Starting a Fight) If you enjoyed this episode, leave a quick ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating or review—it really helps others find the show. And if someone you now is navigating difficult conversations please send it their way. high conflict, mediation, personality disorders, emotional management, conflict resolution, communication strategies, empathy, emotional intelligence, legal disputes, therapy, interpersonal relationships, social media, conflict management

    1h 1m
  2. APR 9

    Episode 30: Attunement with Dr. Angelica Shiels

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Angelica Shiels discusses her journey as a psychologist sharing powerful insights on relationships, attachment theory, and the importance of emotional attunement. Drawing from her unique background—including time spent working in maximum security prisons—Dr. Shiels explores how trauma, parenting, and personality styles shape the way we connect with others. Dr. Shiels offers practical wisdom for parents, educators, and partners navigating emotional regulation, self-awareness, and connection. Top Takeaways: Why attachment theory is crucial for understanding emotions. How trauma and personality styles impact connection. Emotional attunement as a parenting and partnership superpower. The surprising lessons Dr. Shiels learned in maximum-security prisons. Systems-level solutions to school violence and generational trauma. Chapters: 00:00 – Meet Dr. Shiels 05:50 – Attachment Theory Basics 09:13 – Why Attunement Matters 14:57 – Sensitive vs. Rigid Personalities 21:05 – Lessons from Prison Psychology 37:58 – Mentorship & Prevention 52:42 – Emotional Self-Awareness Connect with Dr. Angelica Shiels: Instagram  Tiktok Website:https://marylandfamilypsychology.com/ Let’s Connect: If something in this episode resonated with you or you have questions about coaching, I’d love to connect. Instagram:@evelynmarley Email: twistedplotpod@gmail.com Website: www.evelynmarleycoaching.com Books by Dr. Angelica Shields: Patterns of Love – A deep dive into attachment styles, stress responses, and parenting strategies. Available on Amazon Safety Then Connection – A practical workbook with exercises to help understand core beliefs and build emotional safety in relationships. Key Theories & Frameworks: Attachment Theory – Includes avoidant, anxious, and disorganized (aka fearful-avoidant) styles. The Attunement Method – Dr. Shields’ signature approach for healing relationships by first creating nervous system safety. “Hide it” vs. “Expose it” Stress Responses – Her original framework explaining how people react to emotional distress. Core Beliefs & Externalizing Beliefs – A tool to track your internal thought patterns in relationships (found in her workbook). Safety Orientation – Are you safety-driven by your internal instincts or external guidance? Nature vs. Nurture Theory – How inherent sensitivity or rigidity shapes attachment styles. Referenced Therapy Models: Gottman Method – Known for concepts like stonewalling and emotional bids. Imago Relationship Therapy – A couples therapy model focused on dialogue and childhood wounds. Research Highlight: The Violence Project – A study-based initiative researching school violence and generational trauma. More info at theviolenceproject.org Support & Prevention Programs: Big Brothers Big Sisters – Mentorship program proven to positively shift at-risk youth trajectories. Learn more Trauma-Informed School Coaching (idea discussed) – A proposed model to support kids in school through trained mentors/coaches. Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the podcast! It helps more people find the show and allows me to continue bringing amazing guests your way. Keywords: relationships, attunement, attachment theory, parenting, psychology, social media, emotional intelligence, personal development, mental health, couples therapy, trauma, crime, mentorship, emotional attunement, prevention, mental health, generational trauma #attachmenttheory #emotionalattunement #relationships #mentalhealth #parenting #couplestherapy #psychology #emotionalintelligence #generationalhealing #personaldevelopment #podcastepisode #communicationtools #traumainformedcare #innerwork #growthmindset

    58 min
  3. 04/30/2024

    Episode 29(part 2): Is This A Cult? with Anne L Peterson

    Welcome back to the Twists Plot Podcast with Evelyn Marley. In this episode, Evelyn continues her insightful conversation with Anne Peterson, delving deeper into the complexities of personal development and the journey of self-discovery. Episode Highlights: Anne reflects on the importance of fostering diverse perspectives within personal development communities, drawing parallels to her observations of leadership dynamics in various settings. The discussion navigates the nuances of control and influence within charismatic leadership structures, shedding light on the intricate relationships between leaders and their followers. Evelyn and Anne explore the concept of grace in self-forgiveness, acknowledging the challenges of recognizing and rectifying past complicity in harmful situations. Anne shares her journey of awakening to the realities of abuse and exploitation within personal development spaces, emphasizing the necessity of taking time and approaching self-discovery with patience and self-compassion. The conversation touches on the significance of critical thinking, ethical practice, and responsible engagement in personal growth endeavors, emphasizing the importance of aligning with values and seeking authentic, evidence-based resources. Anne offers insights into her ongoing initiatives, including Illuminate Life and collaborations with Seek Safely, aimed at promoting safe, ethical practices in personal development and providing resources for practitioners and consumers alike. Join us as we unravel the complexities of personal development and navigate the path toward authentic growth and self-discovery. Remember, the journey may be challenging, but with patience, self-compassion, and a commitment to ethical practice, we can illuminate the path forward. Connect with Anne Peterson: Website: iLumn8.Life ⁠https://ilumn8.life/⁠ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/annelpeterson/ "Is This a Cult?" Book Resources to find help and  if you have more questions: • Seek Safely: SeekSafely.org • https://janjalalich.com/help/ • https://alittlebitculty.com/resources Join the Mindful Journeys Group coaching program here:  https://journey-with-mindfulness.mn.co/share/MnHiLr0sGzSj8U7u For anyone this message resonates with, please feel free to share it. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, you can reach out to Evelyn through the following channels: •Instagram: @evelynmarley •Email: twistedplotpod@gmail.com •Website: evelynmarleycoaching.com A Note to Our Incredible Listeners: Your support for the "Twisted Plot Podcast" has been overwhelming, and if you're enjoying the ride, here's how you can help us grow: •Rate and Subscribe: Help others find us by rating and subscribing on Spotify, Apple, or your preferred podcast platform. •Leave a Review: Your feedback is crucial. Let us know what you love and what you're curious about. •Spread the Word: Sharing is caring! Share your favorite episodes to help us reach more listeners. •Stay Tuned: The best is yet to come, with more gripping stories and insightful interviews. Thank You for being an integral part of our story. Remember, take what resonates with you and leave something for others. Stay twisted!

    45 min
  4. 04/23/2024

    Episode 29: Is This A Cult? with Anne L. Peterson (Part 1)

    In this 2 part series, Evelyn chats with author Anne L. Peterson. Anne has been in the personal development space for 20 plus years. Anne has recently released her book "Is This A Cult: Confronting the Line Between Transformation and Exploitation"  in which she shares her previous experience working with a large well known personal development organization, one of the biggest worldwide. The two then discuss the risks and impact of cults in personal development, the importance of critical thinking, recognizing origins of information, and ethical considerations.  Listeners are urged to proceed with caution as the discussion may evoke strong emotions. This podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. Resources for self-care and further exploration are available in the show notes.Please note that the thoughts and views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the podcast as a whole. Listener discretion is advised. Episode Highlights: Evelyn introduces Anne Peterson, author of "Is This a Cult?" with over 20 years of experience in personal development. Evelyn shares her personal journey, from initial interest in personal development to ethical explorations within the industry. Anne recounts her journey from participant to program leader, reflecting on her disillusionment with exploitative practices. Anne discusses subtle tactics used by organizations to manipulate members, emphasizing the importance of awareness. Conclusion: Join us for part 2 next week in this thought-provoking exploration of personal development and ethical considerations. Remember to approach with sensitivity and engage in self-care as needed. Connect with Anne Peterson: iLumn8.Life https://ilumn8.life/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annelpeterson/ "Is This a Cult?" Book Resources to find help and  if you have more questions: Seek Safely: SeekSafely.org https://janjalalich.com/help/ https://alittlebitculty.com/resources

    30 min
  5. 04/11/2024

    Episode 28: "So you want to go to Greece" with Kat

    So you want to go to Greece and don’t know where to start? In this episode, Evelyn and Kat sit down to talk about the key tips for traveling to Greece. Kat is the founder of Eyia Retreats, where she curates and helps clients design their travel itinerary to Greece. She is also a wellness coach, so she is very mindful and asks you all the right questions to identify how your trip should be designed and what would be the most ideal schedule for your idyllic Greek vacation. Be sure to listen to one tip that we have yet to hear any Greek talk about. You won’t want to miss it.  For more information on how to work with Kat or see her retreat offerings, please check out her website https://eyiaretreats.com/ And be sure to follow her Instagram https://www.instagram.com/katkalkas/ for some motivation, inspiration and tips on traveling to Greece.  Join the Mindful Journeys Group coaching program here:  https://journey-with-mindfulness.mn.co/share/MnHiLr0sGzSj8U7u For anyone this message resonates with, please feel free to share it. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, you can reach out to Evelyn through the following channels: •Instagram: @evelynmarley •Email: twistedplotpod@gmail.com •Website: evelynmarleycoaching.com A Note to Our Incredible Listeners: Your support for the "Twisted Plot Podcast" has been overwhelming, and if you're enjoying the ride, here's how you can help us grow: •Rate and Subscribe: Help others find us by rating and subscribing on Spotify, Apple, or your preferred podcast platform. •Leave a Review: Your feedback is crucial. Let us know what you love and what you're curious about. •Spread the Word: Sharing is caring! Share your favorite episodes to help us reach more listeners. •Stay Tuned: The best is yet to come, with more gripping stories and insightful interviews. Thank You for being an integral part of our story. Remember, take what you need and leave the rest for someone who needs the pieces you left. Stay twisted!

    1h 7m
3.3
out of 5
145 Ratings

About

The Fight Less Club is where conflict stops being the enemy and starts becoming the teacher. Hosted by Evelyn Marley, conflict coach and communication coach, this podcast dives into the messy, real-life moments of relationships. Each episode blends practical tools with fresh perspectives, helping you navigate disagreements with more clarity, compassion, and connection. Whether you’re in a marriage, a friendship, or a family dynamic, The Fight Less Club shows you how to break cycles of resentment, repair faster, and actually grow closer through conflict.