The Role of Leadership in Diffusing Conflict
In this episode of The Culture Focused Practice Podcast, I (Dr. Tara Vossenkemper—yep, still weird calling myself that) dive into the reality that conflict is inevitable in group practices. But here’s the kicker: how you, as a leader, handle it will make or break your team.
We’re not aiming for a conflict-free practice (that’s a fantasyland I don’t live in). Instead, I’ll walk you through how to set the tone for healthy conflict resolution so disagreements strengthen your practice instead of blowing it up.
Here’s what we’re covering:
✔️ The biggest leadership mistakes when handling conflict (and what to do instead)
✔️ Why emotional intelligence and psychological safety are your best tools for managing tension
✔️ How to tell the difference between a systems problem vs. a personal issue (because they’re not the same, and treating them like they are is a disaster)
✔️ Real-world conflict scenarios and practical strategies to navigate them like a pro
✔️ How to empower your team so they’re not running to you for every minor disagreement
🚨 Ready to build a practice where conflict isn’t a constant dumpster fire? Join the Culture Focused Practice Membership for deeper support, real talk, and the resources you need.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Intro (I promise, conflict isn’t the enemy)
00:27 – Why conflict actually helps your team (when handled well)
04:22 – The biggest leadership screw-ups in conflict
05:55 – The mindset shift that makes conflict easier to navigate
17:52 – Real-world conflict scenarios (because theory only goes so far)
20:08 – Handling workplace disagreements like a leader
22:05 – Personality clashes: When it’s a them problem vs. a you problem
26:15 – Dealing with a pot-stirrer (you know the type)
30:55 – Practical conflict resolution strategies you can use today
35:00 – Teaching your team to self-manage conflict (so you’re not the default referee)
37:52 – Wrapping up + where to go next
00:27 – Why conflict actually helps your team (when handled well)
04:22 – The biggest leadership screw-ups in conflict
05:55 – The mindset shift that makes conflict easier to navigate
17:52 – Real-world conflict scenarios (because theory only goes so far)
20:08 – Handling workplace disagreements like a leader
22:05 – Personality clashes: When it’s a them problem vs. a you problem
26:15 – Dealing with a pot-stirrer (you know the type)
30:55 – Practical conflict resolution strategies you can use today
35:00 – Teaching your team to self-manage conflict (so you’re not the default referee)
37:52 – Wrapping up + where to go next
🔗 Don’t just listen—get the tools to build a conflict-savvy practice. Join the Culture Focused Practice Membership now!
