On this episode of Conflict Managed, I'm joined by Justin Crice, CEO of the Weakley County Economic Development Board and Chamber of Commerce. Tune in as we discuss: ⚖️ Balancing tradition and innovation: Adapting operations while respecting community values 🎯 Identifying your work's 'why': Understanding the purpose behind your company's mission 🤝 Regular check-ins: Ensuring consistent communication and progress 🚀 Starting new ventures vs. joining established teams: Weighing the pros and cons 💻 Remote work communication: Strategies for effective digital collaboration Don't miss this insightful conversation on Conflict Managed, available on your favorite podcast platforms. Before joining Weakley County Economic Development Board and Chamber of Commerce, Justin was the Northwest Regional Coordinator for Tennessee Pathways. In this role, he worked with K-12 educators, postsecondary institutions, and local industries to expand college/career pathway access across West Tennessee. Additionally, Justin has served as the Volunteer Services Coordinator at Reelfoot Rural Ministries and municipal planning roles in both Georgia and Kentucky. Justin earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Murray State University and a master’s degree in public administration from Western Kentucky University. Justin and his wife Amanda reside in Martin, where they’ve lived since 2016. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com).

🎙️ This week on Conflict Managed, join me in welcoming featured guest Sarah Freeman-Woolpert, Deputy Director of Strategic Advocacy for the Friends Committee on National Legislation. Tune in as we delve into: 👂 Discovering shared values with deep listening. 🌟 Seeing the person beyond their beliefs. 🤝 Moving past workplace competition to collaboration 🔍 Understanding the how’s and why’s of building relationships. ❤️ Uncovering what truly matters to others. 🌱 Nurturing deeper connections in the workplace.   As FCNL’s deputy director of Strategic Advocacy, Sarah Freeman-Woolpert is responsible for deepening and expanding the Advocacy Teams program, a network of hundreds of Quakers and friends lobbying to build congressional champions for peace and justice. Since 2018, Sarah has trained and organized FCNL’s grassroots network, and has contributed to the broader base-building work of the Strategic Advocacy Team. Sarah has trained hundreds of people to lobby, strengthened FCNL’s intersectional approach to grassroots advocacy, and mobilized new constituencies to take action with FCNL. Sarah is a former correspondent and associate editor at WagingNonviolence.org, a people-powered news source examining grassroots struggles for peace and justice around the globe. She has also served as a board member for Učimo, an educational nonprofit in Bosnia-Herzegovina.  Sarah holds a master’s degree in human rights and democracy in Southeast Europe from the University of Sarajevo. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in international affairs with a focus on conflict resolution from The George Washington University.   A native of Pembroke, New Hampshire, Sarah was raised in the Concord Friends Meeting.  Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com).

This week on Conflict Managed, I’m excited to welcome Geneva Taylor, mediator, business owner, stylist, and reconciliation specialist. In this insightful episode, Geneva and I delve into crucial topics that shape today's workplace: Healing in Action: Exploring how resilience transforms workplace wounds. The Hidden Costs: Understanding the impact of underestimating employee potential. First-Time Manager Dilemmas: Navigating the complexities of new leadership. The Resilience Effect: What happens when we push through versus run from challenges. Graceful Communication: The art of listening with curiosity in conflict. Tune in for an episode packed with practical insights and strategies for anyone looking to foster a more resilient and harmonious workplace. Geneva Taylor's background and work in reconciliation and restorative practices are truly impressive. Her dedication to healing trauma in the Black community through practices like healing circles and mediation is commendable. She has made significant contributions to her community, including her role as a certified mediator, her work with the Office of Police Accountability, and her involvement with various community organizations. Her business venture, Reconcile with Merge, aims to help people navigate difficult conversations and foster reconciliation in fractured relationships. To learn more about her work, her thesis "The Black Reconciliation" can be found on Seattle Pacific University's website. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com).

Join me this week on Conflict Managed, as I welcome Kumar Vijayendra, celebrated author, speaker, and entrepreneur. Engage with us as we delve into: 🌱 Embracing sustainability in small businesses 🌍 The 4Ps: People, Planet, Purpose, Profit 💼 Fostering "Operational Excellence" for a sustainable future 🌟 Crafting a dynamic, living vision ❌ Breaking free from the blame game 👥 Exploring the benefits of having a business coach Kumar is a thought leader in Small Business Transformation with 17 years of experience in transforming the operations of diverse organizations around the world. He is the author of “The Sustainable Entrepreneur: How to Build a Profitable Business and Save the Planet” and has published articles in trade journals including the CEO World, All Business, and other global research publications. He speaks at business organizations and conferences related to small business transformation and sustainable operations management. Kumar is an invited member of the Forbes Business Council and Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society. Kumar serves as the President at Footsteps LLC, a last mile delivery company in the Bay Area, CA. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the Hollister Downtown Business Association and the Community Food Bank of San Benito County. Kumar is a frequent peer judge for industry organizations dedicated to management and business innovation, such as the Stevie Awards, Globee Business Innovation Awards, Disruptor Awards, Titan Awards, among others. Kumar holds an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh with a concentration in sustainability and operations. He has certifications as a Six Sigma Green Belt, a Certified Scrum Master, and is also a professional executive coach. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts.   Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com).

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Martha Wilcoxson. Among her many roles, Martha teaches ethics to MBA students at Colorado State University Pueblo, is a mediator, CFP, and FINRA arbitrator. Join us as we discuss: 🌟 Developing moral confidence through small intentional wins 💪 As easy excising in developing empathy 🗨️ Creating genuine dialogue at work ✨ The magic of articulating and writing out your moral code of conduct. Martha Wilcoxson’s roots are in the financial services industry. She holds FINRA Series 7, 24, 63, and 65 registrations through Commonwealth Financial Network and is a Certified Financial Planner (TM). Martha has a keen interest in industry compliance and has served as a FINRA arbitrator for the states of Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado and Tennessee since 2000. She is a graduate of the FINRA Wharton School of Business CRCP Program, University of Pennsylvania. In this role Martha became curious about decision making processes in situations of dispute and conflict. This curiosity led her to complete the master’s degree in Negotiated Conflict Resolution from the Creighton University School of Law and Education Doctorate from Creighton University in Interdisciplinary Leadership. Today Martha teaches business ethics in the MBA program at Colorado State University Pueblo, is a board member of the National Association for Community Mediation, and runs her mediation consulting practice, Colorado NDR, focusing on small firm dispute resolution. Blessed with southern Colorado climate and recreation, she enjoys bike riding, hiking and golf. She also enjoys coral reef scuba diving and destination bicycling. Martha is a public speaker on issues of women's business development and financial literacy. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

In Ep 79: Keeping Your Side of The Street Clean, we are joined by Nick Jonsson, International Best-Selling Author, Ironman Top 1% World Athlete, and Executive Mental Health Advocate. 🎙️ Join us for an insightful conversation as we delve into essential topics: Addressing Modern (Executive) Loneliness: Exploring the unique challenges of loneliness in leadership roles. 🌐😔 Developing Healthy Habits: The key to personal and professional well-being. 🌱🏋️‍♂️ “Smiling Depression”: Unmasking hidden struggles and fostering mental health awareness. 😊😔 Developing Open and Honest Communication: The cornerstone of effective relationships and leadership. 🗣️🤝 Daily Personal Inventory and Making Amends: The power of self-reflection and reconciliation. 📝🤲 Keeping Your Side of the Street Clean: A deep dive into this powerful concept. 🏞️🧹 Don't miss this episode where we explore leadership, mental health, and personal growth! 🚀🧠 Nick is the Co-Founder and MD of EGN Singapore, one of Asia’s premier networking organizations. He built a caring community that provides hundreds of executives a safe haven to share their challenges, receive support, and learn from each other. Nick Jonsson is passionate about raising awareness of mental health and combating loneliness in the modern business world. His recently published book, "Executive Loneliness: The 5 Pathways to Overcoming Isolation, Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in the Modern Business World," provides practical strategies for overcoming isolation and building connections in the workplace.  You can find Nick online at: [email protected] https://egnpeernetwork.com/ Link to Nick's book: https://a.co/d/iQLFCO4 Link to Merry's book: https://a.co/d/7ruITS4   Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed, we are thrilled to have Lindsay Frilling, CEO of the Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation, as our special guest. 🎙️ Join us as we discuss: What true harmony means (and what it doesn't). 🤝🚫 How to shift from complaining to maintaining a critical eye while staying solution oriented. 💡🔍 The magic of active listening and the art of asking thoughtful questions. 🎧❓ The significance of eliminating career roadblocks for growth. 🚧📈 Finding your "voice of reason" in challenging situations. 🗣️🧠 Humility as a key trait for effective leadership. 🙌   Lindsay Frilling serves as CEO for the Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation, which includes the Obion County Chamber of Commerce and Obion County Industrial Development Corporation. She joined the organization in 2009. Since 2011, Ms. Frilling has facilitated the creation of over 2,500 new jobs and over $280 million in capital investment in a county with a population of 30,000. Lindsay spearheaded the effort to make the Northwest Tennessee Regional Industrial Center a Select Tennessee Certified Site and participated in tourism efforts that have resulted in 250,000 families and individuals visiting Discovery Park of America annually. As an active member of TN Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE), TN Economic Partnership (TEP), and TN Economic Development Council (TEDC), Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC). Lindsay is the President of TEDC, Past President of TCCE, and served on the TN Chamber of Commerce & Industry Board of Directors. In 2015, she was named as one of West Tennessee’s Up and Coming Top Forty Under 40, and in 2016 was chosen for the 2016 Southern Economic Development Council’s Chairman’s Award.  She is a graduate of Leadership TN, Complete TN Leadership, Delta Leadership, TVA Rural Economic Development Leadership, WestStar Leadership, and Adult Leadership Obion County.  As a community volunteer, Lindsay dedicates time to Union City Rotary Club, Discovery Park of America, TN Access to Justice Commission, Adult Leadership Obion County, Union City J’Cettes, Chimes for Charity, and the Boys and Girls Club, having served in executive positions for these organizations. Lindsay is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) with the International Economic Development Council and earned an Institute of Organization Management (IOM) Certification from the US Chamber of Commerce. Lindsay holds a BS in Business Administration with a concentration in Management Information Systems and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee at Martin. Prior to joining the Obion County JEDC, Lindsay was the Director of Marketing and Special Events for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Tennessee in Union City and is also the former Customer Service Supervisor for Midwest-CBK. Lindsay is the proud mother of two children, Alli Kate and Houston.

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Dr. Alex Richardson, Director of the National High School Ethics Bowl. Join us as we discuss: The constant process of negotiating and navigating with others Embracing humility and civility in discussions Reframing work conflict as a personal developmental feature The critical nature of mission alignment Descent improves products (and us!) Since 2019, Alex Richardson has been Director of the National High School Ethics Bowl, based at the University of North Carolina’s Parr Center for Ethics. A philosopher working at the intersections of ethics, political philosophy, and the philosophy of education, Alex is an award-winning teacher and an advocate for public and pre-college philosophy pedagogy. He received his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 2021. In addition to his work at the Parr Center, Alex teaches courses in ethics and political philosophy in the Department of Philosophy at Elon University. Alex also serves on Boards of Directors for the Association for Practical and Professional Ethics and Ethics Bowl Canada, as well as on the American Philosophical Association’s Committee on Pre-College Philosophy. National High School Ethics Bowl (nhseb.org) About Ethics Bowl/APPE IEB® - Association for Practical and Professional Ethics (appe-ethics.org)   Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

 This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Stacie Herrell, co-owner of Higher Ground Coffee Co and Vantage Coffee Roasters alongside her husband Kevin. Stacie attended Middle Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee at Martin, graduating with an Accounting Degree. She worked for Welcome Home, a home interior retail shop, where she became a Store Manager and Store Opener, traveling across the US. After a brief stay in Colorado, Stacie returned to Union City in 1995 and worked for her father for two decades. She currently manages the operations of their small business, overseeing both Higher Ground Coffee Co and Vantage Coffee Roasters, which they opened in 2007. Stacie and Kevin are proud parents of three sons, all of whom have played significant roles in their coffee ventures since day one. highergroundcoffee.com vantagecoffeeroasters.com   Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Dr. Sean Walker, Professor of Management in the Department of Management, Marketing, and Information Systems in the College of Business and Global Affairs at The University of Tennessee at Martin. Join us as we discuss: Treating colleagues according to the Platinum Rule The imperative to practice in order to gain robust conflict resolution skills Expressing dissent The power of small, intentional steps Dr. Sean Walker has served various roles at UT Martin and across the UT System including: interim department chair, Faculty Senate President, Chair of the UT System’s University Faculty Council (UFC), UT Martin Campus Representative to the UFC, and the UT System-wide Faculty Representative to the University of Tennessee’s Board of Trustees: Education, Research, and Service Committee. He obtained both his MBA and PhD at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Dr. Walker’s research interest, and primary teaching areas, assess the impact of psychological phenomenon on Human Resources and Organizational Behavior. Dr. Walker is also a Licensed Minister and Mediator, both of which provide him with training to educate students, colleagues, and external agents on how to reach mutually acceptable agreements when faced with conflict within the organization. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Jessica Bensch, a passionate advocate for psychological safety at work and founder of Vanguard Voices. Jessica Bench is a Canadian-Indian, living in Switzerland and working as an Agile Coach in a pharmaceutical company. She has managed many high profile organizational change projects and led employee engagement initiatives over the course of 20+years. In 2019, she championed a grassroots movement with the company she worked. The focus was on upholding the company values and psychological safety at work. Within two years, the efforts gained over 25,000 engagements. Jessica has been recognized with more than 20 global awards for this initiative. Jessica is now building a worldwide not-for-profit movement, Vanguard Voices, on the topic of psychological safety. She deeply believes that we do not change the world simply by keeping quiet and perpetuating the status quo. We make positive change by confronting our fears and speaking out our truth, individually and collectively. A global cosmopolitan and humanitarian, Jessica has lived, traveled or worked in close to 40 countries. She is married to a German-South African and together they have three young children. www.vanguardvoices.com Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts.   Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined Olivia Atkin, podcast host, author, and entrepreneur. Olivia Atkin is a dynamic force of inspiration with a diverse background that spans across the country. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and a minor in Sports Studies from Quinnipiac University, and a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Supply Chain. Olivia’s pursuit of knowledge and excellence is evident through the array of certifications she holds from Society for Human Resource Management CP to Project Management CAPM, from Association for Supply Chain Management CPIM to Green Belt Six Sigma. Leading her business empire, Achieving Success LLC, Olivia has crafted a multi- faceted platform that empowers others to reach their full potential. At the heart of her endeavors lies her book, “Achieving Success in Career Development“, where she imparts invaluable wisdom to aspiring individuals. She further amplifies her message through her captivating podcast, “Achieving Success with Olivia Atkin’‘, reaching a global audience eager for motivation and growth. But Olivia’s influence doesn’t stop there. Through her coaching and speaking division, she engages with others, guiding them on their own paths to success. Her groundbreaking webinar series, ‘Authentically Achieving Your Mix’, brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds to foster a community of growth and authenticity. You can find Olivia at: Home - Achieving Success (achieving-success.com) Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Jeff Harnois, CEO of iBridged. Join us as we discuss: The opportunity and obligation to advocate for yourself Using psychometrics at work Blind spots Team boundaries, civility, and social contracts Artificial harmony Jeff Harnois is passionate about helping people and teams reach new heights in performance and relationships.  With a focus on understanding “current state” through key psychometrics like MBTI and Everything DiSC, Jeff and his team focus on enabling individuals, leaders and teams find their maximum effectiveness as people and professionals.  As the CEO of iBridged, the work often focuses on building trust, engaging in healthy conflict, gaining key commitment, accountability for self and others and how to operationalize results.    Jeff has enjoyed many rewarding and successful career opportunities from individual contributor to executive leadership with Fortune 50 companies and start-up ventures alike. Working with companies like: Apple, Inc., Amazon, Google, Hewlett Packard, AT&T, Symantec, Kodak, Microsoft and Bank of America have given Jeff a unique perspective that add rich experiences to share and leverage with clients. Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffharnois/ www.ibridged.com Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Suzanne Harper, Marketing Director at Twin Oaks Technology, a Tennessee-based tech company where she leads a fully remote digital marketing team. Join us as we discuss: *Daily choosing connection and communication *Kind and strong leadership *Speaking up *Conflict resolution in a creative environment *Problems with being a passive teammate In addition to the job she loves, Suzanne also devotes time to her two part-time passion projects – a teamwork and leadership consulting company called Extra Credit Team Solutions and a philanthropic clothing company called Project 731. Suzanne is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin where she earned her degree in Marketing and Business Administration. Follow Suzanne on Instagram for all the food, travel and dog pics! It’s the hub for all of her other social links as well. Instagram handle: suz_harp Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by the Rev. Robert Hall. Join us for a delightful conversation filled with insight and wisdom from Rev. Halls life and experiences. The Reverend Robert Hall is a native of Nashville, TN. He is a devoted husband and father to four amazing children. For the last 20 years, he has been motivating youth and adults through ministry, mentorship, and education. In 2006, he excepted his call to ministry and was ordained under the leadership of the Reverend Dr. Andrew Lee Stephens, founding pastor of the Village Church (PCUSA). He went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and Theology from the American Baptist College and his Master’s in Education from Lipscomb University. He is, also, ordained in the National Baptist Convention. Over the last 10 years, Rev. Hall has served as Executive Pastor, Interim Pastor, and pulpit supply in the Presbyterian Church (USA), African Methodist Episcopal, National Baptist Convention, and United Church of Christ denominations. Rev. Hall served several years as an educator in the Metro Nashville Public School system teaching Ancient World and U.S. History. He is the Founding Pastor of Abundant Faith Fellowship in Nashville, TN. He serves as Chaplain and Special Advisor to the President at Meharry Medical College. He is also the newly appointed Organizational Ombuds at Meharry Medical College. Reverend Robert Hall brings a wealth of personal experience as a spiritual leader, entrepreneur, and former educator. Indeed, his high expectations of himself have created a pathway of success. He views all persons as already capable with many strengths, and he recognizes and uses the power of high expectations to help them see their own capacity for growth. He travels nationally to college campuses, schools, and churches speaking on his passion and focus on African American males of all ages and their definition of manhood and masculinity in the 21st century. He holds memberships in several professional and service organizations, such as the International Ombudsman Association, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Because of his calling, ability to communicate, and reputation for professionalism, he is often asked to facilitate, speak to, and serve people across religious, ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic lines, cultivating them to know their fullest potential to live their best lives. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

Is it true that people don’t like change? This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Phil Lewis and Claire Croft, the dynamic team behind Corporate Punk. Corporate Punk, as a whole, champions adaptability and believes that most organizations possess untapped ideas and talent. They work towards unlocking this potential through open, direct, and compassionate conversations, focusing on people over job titles. Their change services revolve around a human-first approach, using diagnostics, planning, consultancy, and coaching to drive fast and effective change. Clients who partner with Corporate Punk are leaders seeking honest, zero-nonsense partnerships, willing to navigate wickedly hard change without resorting to drastic measures. The company values total cost transparency and long-term value, emphasizing the connection between change and commercial performance. Claire and Phil bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Their strategic approach and commercial focus are a breath of fresh air, and they are known for challenging their clients in a way that is respectful, energizing, and light-hearted. If you're looking for speakers who can help you unlock the potential of your people and achieve long-term commercial success, Claire Croft and Phil Lewis are the perfect choice. Corporate Punk, https://corporatepunk.com/ Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by physical therapist and entrepreneur, Brian Smith. Brian Smith graduated from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis with a Bachelor and Master of Science Physical Therapy. He is a physical therapist and the former owner of The Sideline, a physical therapy clinic and fitness center in downtown Martin. Brian is now Vice President for Compliance with Dynamix Physical Therapy and is Clinic Director for the Martin location. Brian is a member of First Baptist Church in Martin where he is a Sunday School Teacher, Children & Youth Leader, and a member of the Choir & Praise Team. Brian is a board member for Charger Foundation, Westview Quarterback Club, Jackson State Community College Physical Therapist Assistant Program, and a former board member for the Tennessee Physical Therapy Association. He is also an active youth sports coach in the community. Brian has two children, Hayden and Caisley. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

What does psychological safety within workplaces look like in action? This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Hanna Grace Garner, a law student at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Join us as Hanna Grace recounts an experience where leaders diligently cultivated an environment of psychological safety. Listen as she recalls the cascading benefits that ensued from this approach, shedding light on the profound impacts of leadership founded upon trust and reliability. Hanna Grace Garner graduated from Harding University this past spring with a master’s degree in Business Administration and an undergraduate degree in International Business. While at Harding, she worked at the Waldron Center for Entrepreneurship and Family Business and was active in a campus social club, running club, and her local church. This fall, Hanna Grace is starting law school at the University of Tennessee College of Law. Her hobbies include reading, running, traveling, and taking care of her little indoor garden. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

This week on Conflict Managed, we are joined by Dr. Yancy Freeman, the new Chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Martin. Join us as we discuss: People-centric, servant leadership 🤝 Facilitating growth of others 🌱 Common sense decision making 🤔 Leading by example 🌟 Embracing change and a growth mindset 💡 Prior to Dr. Freeman’s move to UT Martin, he served at UT Chattanooga for the past 25 years in various admissions, recruitment and enrollment roles. A first-generation college graduate, Freeman completed an undergraduate degree in political science, a master’s degree in public administration, and a doctorate in learning and leadership from UT Chattanooga. He currently serves on the boards of the Public Education Foundation in Chattanooga, The River City Company, and Chattanooga 2.0. Freeman was named a 2018 Top 30 Influential Leader in Chattanooga by City Scope Magazine. Dr. Freeman holds active memberships within several honor societies including Golden Key, Alpha Society and Phi Eta Sigma. Freeman is also a 2020 graduate of the UT System’s Executive Leadership Institute.  Photo by UTM University Relations Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

What does it mean to be professional? This week on Conflict Managed, we have a unique twist as our host, Merry Brown, steps into the role of guest. Lisa Smartt, a renowned national speaker and author, takes charge as the interviewer. Join us for an exciting episode where Lisa, a longtime friend and the show's first guest, discusses Merry's new book, "How to Be Unprofessional at Work: Tips to Ensure Failure." “How to Be Unprofessional at Work” examines the question, what does it mean to be professional? Far from a run-of-the-mill manual, “How to Be Unprofessional At Work: Tips to Ensure Failure” takes a unique approach to professionalism, offering a glimpse at what NOT to do in the workplace. Each tip outlines a specific unprofessional action and contrasts it with the appropriate professional behavior. Unlike most workplace guides that simply list dos and don'ts, "How to Be Unprofessional at Work" highlights common workplace blunders in a lighthearted manner, offering readers an engaging way to learn from these mistakes. “How to Be Unprofessional at Work: Tips to Ensure Failure” is available now available on Amazon. How to Be Unprofessional at Work: Tips to Ensure Failure: Brown, Merry: 9780989993463: Amazon.com: Books Conflict managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

Today on Conflict Managed, we are joined by Dr. Karuna Ramanathan, Transformative Leader, ex-Warship Captain, and Author. Join us as we talk about all things leadership. Kaurna says of the future, “work is not going to take care of you. You will have to take care of work.” Karuna Ramanathan is a transformational leadership expert with nearly three decades of experience in supporting senior leaders and organizations through difficult transformations. He is a former naval warship captain who went on to lead and architect leadership transformation and systems-level change in the Center for Leadership Development. Karuna is currently the Principal Consultant for KR Konsulting, bringing with him deep experience gained from designing and facilitating more than 2500 sessions. He is a Marshall Goldsmith Global Certified Coach, Global Coach Group Certified Leadership Coach, and a trained Erikson Executive Coach. Karuna is an expert in large system change programs, co-creation and collaboration techniques, organizational storytelling and narratives, and tacit knowledge elicitation/transfer methods. He has more than 2000 paid coaching hours with senior leaders and nearly 1000 pro-bono coaching hours, helping leaders grow. Karuna's book, "Navigating The Seas of Change," published in 2020, is a leadership primer for change leaders. Karuna has been featured as “Top 10 Organisation Development Consultants 2023” by the Asia Business Outlook and nominated by the CEO Insights ASIA, a business magazine, as one of “Asian Leaders & Achievers-2023”. His expertise in growing leaders and building teams is available to help you become an internal and self-starting change agent—and start your journey to navigating through organizational transformation. You can find Karuna Ramanathan online: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-karuna-ramanathan-885b52a Website: https://krk.sg/ Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services (3pconflictrestoration.com)

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by award-winning attorney Jessica Childress. Join us as we discuss: Addressing conflict with de-escalation strategies Powerful and effective mentorship practices Boosting confidence through intentional leadership The power and gift of remaining calm in difficult circumstances The differences between a toxic and an uncomfortable work environment Respecting individuals at work Jessica Childress is the author of Peace: Leaving a Toxic Workplace on Your Own Terms.  Ms. Childress has practiced employment law for over eleven years, representing organizations of all sizes and individuals in employment law matters.  She is the Managing Attorney of the Childress Firm PLLC, a boutique employment law firm, based in Washington, D.C. Ms. Childress holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government and African American Studies from the University of Virginia and a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law. Ms. Childress graduated Phi Beta Kappa and with High Distinction from the University of Virginia in 2007. Prior to launching the Childress Firm PLLC, Ms. Childress served as an associate at two global law firms and as an attorney at the United States Department of Justice.  Ms. Childress has litigated retaliation, discrimination, sexual harassment, non-competition, trade secret, unfair labor practice, and whistleblower cases before various tribunals. She serves clients in general business transactions with employees and independent contractors. Ms. Childress drafts agreements such as employment agreements, consulting agreements, severance agreements, and confidentiality agreements. She has been the recipient of several honors, including the National Bar Association’s 2018 Young Lawyer of the Year Award, the Washington Bar Association’s 2017-2018 Young Lawyer of the Year Award, the National Bar Association’s 40 under 40 Best Advocates Award, the Kim Keenan Leadership & Advocacy Award, the Greater Washington Area Chapter of the National Bar Association’s Rising Star Award, and recognition by the National Black Lawyers as one of the top 100 black attorneys. In 2022, Ms. Childress received the Women Owned Law organization’s Woman Legal Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Ms. Childress has been named to the 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers Rising Stars lists. Only 2.5% of practicing attorneys in Washington, D.C. are selected to receive this honor. Ms. Childress is a 2022 graduate of the Aspen Institute’s Justice and Society program. Ms. Childress serves as a contributor for Arianna Huffington’s international media outlet, Thrive Global. She has been featured in numerous publications, including Forbes, Essence, the Huffington Post, Success, and Entrepreneur. Mentioned on this episode: Want to leave a toxic job? What should you consider before leaving?​DOWNLOAD your FREE checklist now! You can find Jessica Childress online: Twitter || https://twitter.com/childressfirm  (@Childressfirm) Meta || www.facebook.com/thechildressfirm Instagram || https://www.instagram.com/thechildressfirm (@thechildressfirm) Website: www.thechildressfirm.com LinkedIn|| https://www.linkedin.com/in/childressjessica Youtube || https://www.youtube.com/@childressfirm   Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.  

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Keegan Cary (she/her). Join us as we explore the world of work, discussing issues such as: handling angry customers and practicing transparency restorative justice mentoring young professionals the role of supervisors as thought partners the importance of detaching individuals from problems maintaining a relationship-centric attitude, even when mistakes occur Keegan Cary (she/her) works as an Organizational Ombuds and has a master's degree in Conflict and Dispute Resolution. Her passion for her work as an organizational ombuds stems from her background in education. Educators provide students with the knowledge, tools, and skills to problem-solve and navigate the demands of a classroom environment and in life. As an ombuds, Keegan works with individuals to talk through their concerns and strategize possible options to address them with the goal of helping that individual feel confident in the plan they have identified for moving forward. Outside of work, Keegan likes to embroider, run, hike, and play soccer.  Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

This week on Conflict Managed, join us as we explore "Next Level Leadership," where joy, midlife, arts, and quiet converge to transform the leadership journey. Our special guest, Diane Van Buren, a mentor for successful women leaders and co-author of the WSJ #1 Bestseller "Limitless," shares invaluable insights. Explore the power of joyful leadership and reimagine roles at midlife. Discover how arts and culture can guide your next steps and foster higher-level thinking. Learn about the transformative impact of quieting down for effective leadership. Unlock new possibilities for leadership growth and fulfillment. About Diana Van Buren: Growing up as an expat, Diane enjoyed exploring spectacular places while immersing in diverse cultures. Her background of world travels provided firsthand experiences of world treasures.  Living in Tripoli, Libya from age ten, a military coup bestowed the unexpected benefit of attending high school three years on her own in Rome, Italy.  In Rome, Diane began studies in art history, architecture, sculpture and urban design. After living in Sumatra, Indonesia, she attended the University of Texas and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Architecture.  Diane married her university sweetheart in Sumatra and moved to New York City. After three years there, she moved again to Dallas, Texas, her current place of residence.  While Diane earned award-winning success in her architecture career, her dissatisfaction reached a tipping point: her success didn’t bring the happiness she desired. She was restless, adrift and yearned to regain direction to maximize her talents.  Something deep within was calling her to more, and she didn’t see where she could fit in. The problem she faced was how to live up to her life experiences and share her gifts with the world.  Reinventing herself took stamina, focus and discipline. Along the way, Diane earned a Master of Liberal Studies, writing about piazzas as theater.  Diane’s faith carried her through periods of self-doubt, loneliness and a marital rift - happily repaired.  Following her heart, Diane sculpted the role for herself that didn’t exist before. Since then, Diane offers programs and retreats to claim fulfilling joy that eludes those who settle, conform and deprioritize their growth to make others comfortable. Her personal life experiences, professional training and studies led her to write Enlightened Rome: Discover the Magic of Piazzas and Public Spaces in Rome, Italy.  Diane passion for cities public spaces, award-winning design, photography, and sculpture feature in presentations, coached programs, and immersive retreats.  Utilizing the transformational power of place, Diane’s clients step into their greatness as they walk with the greats, experiencing world treasures.  Extraordinarily fulfilling living comes with spiritual connection in the arts. Women who open to their Inner Artist design their Wild Happiness so they can thrive all their life. Diane’s coaching empowers women leaders to evolve their leadership. Developing their authentic expression, they hone evolving Leadership, Legacy, Life and Love.  You can find Diane online: LI:  Laurel “Diane” Van Buren FB: Diane Van Buren Designs, LLC IG: artistauthortraveler TikTok: dianevanburen7   Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

This week on Conflict Managed we are joined by Marie Coombes, CEO of We Restore Calm. Come with us as we discuss the power of workplace mediation, self-change, neurodiversity, mental health, & workplace conversations normalizing menopause. Embrace the shift from dysfunctional to psychologically safe work environments! Marie Coombes is a subject matter expert in conflict management. With extensive experience in dealing with various conflict issues, Marie assesses disputes and suggests tailored solutions based on business and individual needs. As an accredited workplace mediator, Marie boasts a remarkable 95% success rate in 2-party mediations within challenging and complex operating environments. Having worked at Royal Mail for 17 years, Marie honed her skills in conflict resolution, mediation, change management, employee and industrial relations, and employee engagement. She became an accredited mediator in 2014 through TCM's National Certificate in Workplace Mediation. Throughout her career, Marie fostered strong relationships with union officials and management, which proved instrumental in achieving successful outcomes. Marie was awarded the workplace mediator of the year at the National Mediation Awards in 2020, where her excellence in mediation, particularly in the realm of mental health, and her seamless adaptation to online mediation during the Covid-19 pandemic were acknowledged. Her dedication extends to empowering individuals with mental health concerns and neurodiversity, emphasizing the impact of conflict on employee well-being. Marie's commitment is evident through her roles as a Time to Change Champion, a Mental Health First Aider, and her advocacy for mental health within Royal Mail. Outside of her professional endeavors, Marie enjoys spending time with her family, indulging in activities such as walking her two dogs, listening to music, and engaging in running and weight training. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

Question: Picture being pitched a novel TV concept 20 years ago – strangers on an island competing and voting each other off until one 'survivor' remains. Would you have bet on this new 'reality' show or passed? Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Steve Pacheco, President and CEO of the American Advertising Federation. With decades of experience in advertising, Steve discusses how he has navigated industry changes and evolving cultural trends. As he guides his industry towards a future-oriented path, Steve shares his strategic approach. Don't miss this insightful episode! As the President/CEO of the American Advertising Federation, Steve is tasked with designing a future-forward organization consistent with the changes impacting the advertising landscape. His role will span evolution of the AAF’s programs, services and membership; volunteer engagement; and serving as the voice of the advertising industry through advocacy and lobbying on key issues from free commercial speech to the advancement of diversity and inclusion. Steve joined the AAF from Ducks Unlimited, where he was Chief Marketing Officer. He has 30 years of industry experience, more than 20 of which were spent at FedEx as Director of Advertising & Sponsorship Marketing. There, he produced award-winning work, including 12 Super Bowl commercials, FedExCup, NFL and NASCAR ad campaigns. He worked for International Paper as Director of Advertising & Marketing Communications, where he directed their 1996 Summer Olympics sponsorship. He was also a partner in a Memphis-based advertising and design agency, Humphreys Ink. Steve is the first AAF President & CEO to have held leadership roles at every level of the organization, beginning at the collegiate level, President of Memphis Advertising Federation and Chairman of the AAF National Board of Directors in 2011. In 2013, he received the AAF Barton A. Cummings Gold Medal Award and was named The ADVERTISING Club of New York’s “Advertising Person of the Year. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

What is it like to start a ranch/farm from scratch? What is it like to make a mid-career shift? How do you cope with an unsupportive boss? Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Dr. Emalee Buttrey, Director of Education, Programming, and Museum Experience at Discovery Park of America and owner, along with her family, of BERG Livestock. Listen in as Emalee tells us her experience of starting a family-owned ranch, changing careers, and dealing with difficult work situations. Emalee wears many hats, her favorite one being of the cowboy variety. She is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She's also an educator, researcher, collaborator, and rancher. Bringing more than 20 years of experience in education, research, and communication, Emalee is currently the director of education, programming, and museum experience at Discovery Park of America, a state-of-the-art museum and heritage park in Union City, TN. As a member of the senior leadership team, she sets the strategic vision and manages implementation of Discovery Park's mission-oriented education initiatives and events.  Prior to her current role, Emalee served as the assistant director of the honors programs and associate professor of animal science at the University of Tennessee at Martin, where she also earned her bachelor's degree in animal science. She was a tenure-track faculty member at Louisiana Tech University and a research and extension associate with the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Service. She holds graduate degrees from Texas A&M University and West Texas A&M University.  Emalee, her husband, and two children live in Martin, Tenn., where they own and operate BERG Livestock, a regenerative grazing operation. They raise cattle, sheep, and laying hens, marketing breeding cattle, grassfed lamb and pasture-raised eggs in the local community. Emalee thrives in a team environment, valuing each individual and the skills he or she brings to the table. She's recently taken a keen interest in leadership development and coaching and can't wait to see what may come of that with respect to her on- and off-the farm roles. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.          

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Tuba Bilecik, an accomplished mediator, lawyer, outsourced ombuds, conflict management consultant, and trainer based in Washington DC. With extensive experience mediating civil, commercial, employment, and workplace disputes, she closely collaborates with organizations providing expert advice on effective conflict management and cultivating a positive and respectful workplace. Beginning her ADR career in Turkey, Tuba played a significant role in developing mediation awareness and implementing commercial and workplace alternative dispute resolution. She has worked with diverse clients worldwide, including international organizations, private companies, NGOs, government agencies, and individuals. Tuba's approach to alternative dispute resolution is informed by her combination of litigation, transactional, and in-house general counsel experience, enabling her to deliver tailored solutions that meet each client's specific needs. Her cross-cultural competencies and extensive experience in working with clients from diverse backgrounds make her a valuable asset for organizations seeking to adeptly manage conflicts. Tuba is a Distinguished Fellow of the International Academy of Mediators and was awarded the prestigious Weinstein JAMS International Fellowship in 2017. She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Marmara University and an LL.M. in ADR degree from the University of Southern California. Tuba is also an amateur sailor and oral storyteller. You can find her online at: linkedin.com/in/tuba-bilecik https://www.instagram.com/tubabilecik/ Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

This week on Conflict Manage, we are joined by Jayne Robinson, a narcissistic abuse specialist who is passionate about helping people access their self-empowerment to take positive steps forward and regain control of their lives. Using a powerful combination of integrated trauma informed coaching (ITIC), hypnotherapy, brain spotting, and rapid transformational therapy (RTT), Jayne offers a safe, comfortable, relaxed, and confidential environment for her clients seeking assistance in their healing journey. Having personally experienced narcissistic abuse during her marriage and long after she left the relationship, Jayne knows what it feels like to feel unheard, misunderstood, gaslit, and not believed. Jayne Robinson became a licensed RTT practitioner and certified hypnotherapist, adding integrated trauma-informed accredited coaching to her toolbelt to enable her to provide educated support for others who are experiencing narcissistic trauma and abuse. Jayne has big plans to create a series of masterclasses and would love to do further work with family law firms to help their clients calm their nervous system prior to mediation or trial to help them be in the best state of mind and make better decisions. Jayne welcomes you to join her to live a life with more connection, focus, and happiness. You can find Jayne Robinson online at https://jaynerobinson.com.au Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Geetha Ravindra, Vice President for Ombuds Services for The McCammon Group. Geetha Ravindra has over 30 years of experience in ADR in international, federal, and state organizations. She began her career with the Supreme Court of Virginia where she was Director of the Department of Dispute Resolution Services and managed court-connected mediation programs for 11 years. For many years she provided mediation and training for the World Bank Group, and several federal and state agencies, and taught mediation at the University of Richmond and College of William and Mary Law Schools. Geetha then served as in-house Mediator and Ombuds for the International Monetary Fund and the Center for Global Development. Most recently, she was Director of Workplace Relations for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. She is an International Ombuds Association Certified Organizational Ombuds (CO-OP®) and a Virginia Supreme Court certified mediator. Geetha is past Chair of the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution, past President of the Virginia Mediation Network, and past Chair of the VSB-VBA ADR Committee. You can find Geetha online at here: Ombuds Services - McCammon Group Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

Is work/life balance a myth? Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Phallyn Folse, a chemical engineer turned manager and CEO of PF Strategies LLC. Phallyn discusses her journey and the principles and techniques she’s implemented to find work/life balance. She also talks with us about: Flow This or better thinking The isolating effects of management “Is this mine?” curiosity around work conflict and emotions The Ice Cream Wall visualization (you’ll have to listen to find out what this means!) As a recovering burned-out corporate parent, Phallyn understands what it’s like to pretend to balance a corporate career with family life, all the while feeling completely depleted on the inside. Being a wife and mom of two and after going through a period of major burnout mid-way through her 10+ year career as an engineer turned manager, she managed to implement alternative science backed strategies into her daily life that led her to thrive and not just survive. Over the past decade, Phallyn has used her chemical engineering and chemistry background along with her knowledge as a certified Feng Shui consultant to research, develop, and test strategies that help corporate parents lead a life where they feel grounded, balanced and ultimately, thrive.  You can find Phallyn online: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/phallyn-folse-58a67755 Instagram - @pfstrategies.co Website: www.pfstrategies.co Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to #podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

Stuck in a work conflict? Not sure what to do next? Get curious. Today on Conflict Managed, we are joined by Natalie Landau Gibson, Ombuds at UCLA. Natalie Landau Gibson, a Southern California native, has spent the last ten years honing her skills in the field of conflict resolution. She received her bachelor’s degree in Socio-Cultural Anthropology from Boston University and then her Master’s Degree in Ethics, Peace and Global Affairs from the School of International Service at American University in Washington, D.C. With particular interests in human rights, social justice, conflict transformation and peacebuilding, Natalie has worked for a variety of non-profits, government organizations, and public institutions striving towards creating positive change domestically and internationally. Natalie’s current role is an Ombudsperson at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she provides confidential conflict resolution services to students, faculty, and staff. When not working, Natalie enjoys reading, spending time with friends over a good board game, and traveling the world with her husband.  Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

Today on Conflict Managed, we are joined by Dr. Daniela Brancaforte, student Ombuds at Georgetown University. Daniela gives an eloquent explanation of what an Organizational Ombuds is and does.  We also discuss: The effects of excellent leadership The importance of pivoting, adapting, and learning new skills Dealing with the uncertainty of the future Approaching conflict by considering desired outcomes Daniela grew up in Madison, Wisconsin and has lived in many different locations in the U.S. and internationally before settling (for now) in the Washington, DC area. She has had a winding career path since receiving her Ph.D. in Socio-Cultural Anthropology from Princeton University in 2000. Daniela taught German, Italian and Business Anthropology at various universities, worked as a consultant, co-founded a service-disabled veteran-owned consulting firm, which she managed for 10 years, and then decided to return to higher education. She has been at Georgetown University since 2014 serving first as an advising and academic dean in the business school and then moving to the Provost’s Office to set up Georgetown’s inaugural Office of the Student Ombuds serving more than 16,000+ undergraduate and graduate students on the main campus. Daniela never thought of being an “Ombuds” (pronounced om-budz or ahm-buds) when she was growing up, but she feels that her work as an Ombuds is truly a calling that brings together her lived and educational experiences in meaningful new ways. Her academic interests include the intersection of business and culture, workplace dynamics, immigration and entrepreneurship, social justice, and power inequities. Although work is important, Daniela finds joy in playing soccer at least twice a week, taking walks with her dog, visiting her close relatives in Sicily and Germany, and spending time with her husband and two kids. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to #podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Derriell Springfield, Strategic Partnerships Manager, Southeast Region, for Western Governors University.  A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Derriell Springfield is a two-time graduate of Tennessee State University located in Nashville where he received both his bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Mathematics. In July of 2009, he moved to Johnson City, TN to be with his lovely wife, Kiana, who is currently a physician with the Jackson Clinic specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology. With such an ambitious spouse, Derriell decided to use his time in Johnson City to earn his doctorate degree in Education Leadership and Policy Analysis. Derriell started his tenure at Western Governors University (WGU) in 2014 serving as a Course Instructor with the General Education Algebra/Stats team but is currently in the role of Strategic Partnerships Manager for WGU Tennessee. In his free time, Derriell likes reading, running, working out, golfing, tennis, and shopping. In fact, he may have a bit of a suit and bow tie addiction. He also performs a regular test of his mental grit by participating in Tough Mudder, a 12-mile, military obstacle, annually. He loves music and has a keen appreciation for the way different instruments come together to create perfect harmony. Interestingly enough, it is not uncommon for Derriell to “get lost in the music.” To sum all of this up, Derriell just likes to have fun while abiding by a quote from Calvin Coolidge, “Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence.” This is made evident by his pursuit of higher education as a first-generation graduate, his commitment and loyalty to his community, and his own love for meeting new and interesting people. You can find Derriell online at: Facebook: DerriellMontez Instagram: derriells LinkedIn: derriellspringfield Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts.   Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Shelley Kay, Coach and CEO of Shelley Kay Coaching, LLC. In addition to Shelley’s advice to assume positive intent from our colleagues (and why), we had a wide-ranging conversation, featuring topics such as: Thoughtful responsibility Advocating for yourself Dealing with petty feedback The power of listening to understand Work/life balance Shelley Kay is a leading career coach & speaker and expert in changing the way women work, so they can expand their leadership and maximize their impact at work—without burning out. Shelley leverages 10+ years of work as a top HR Leader for Fortune 100 companies like Google, PepsiCo, and GE to help women experience what it means to thrive in their careers. Shelley is committed to helping high-achieving women have it all: job satisfaction, career success, and a life outside the office.  You can find Shelley on LinkedIn and at shelleykaycoaching.com. Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services.  

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined Joel Clelland, a serial entrepreneur and influencer who has had a number of businesses over the years. Most notably, he had a special events entertainment business where he served as a DJ/MC and cover band leader. On this episode of Conflict Managed, Joel and I discuss: Giving & receiving bad news 5 business sectors that aren’t going away Public posture and communication Showing up in hard situations Blind spots Human connections Currently, Joel works as a teacher for a local public charter school and has an insurance practice as well. Most recently, Joel Clelland served as Centric’s Chief Executive Officer. Centric is a dual token cryptocurrency system working to stabilize price and provide a global borderless medium of exchange that only goes up in purchasing power. While CEO, Joel and his team added a number of new exchanges and partnerships, as well as three cryptocurrency payment gateways. The payment gateways allow customers to pay in crypto and the merchants can get paid out in cryptocurrency or whatever their local currency happens to be. Joel has spoken on panels as a Web 3.0 enthusiast and continues to speak and move in this innovative space. Joel also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Board for 501(c)(3) nonprofit Project Boon, a community organization based in Southern California that assists underserved children, individuals, and families with food security and connections to needed services. "As a former Board Chair, I have an affinity for the organization and where it is headed. Our catch phrases are, "empowering people next door and a world away" and "give without reservation." Prior to the pandemic, Project Boon was involved in service in both the U.S. and Mexico. Their website is projectboon.org. You can find Joel online: Contact Email: [email protected] Twitter: https://twitter.com/realclelland LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-clelland-397b79135/ Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

What are we to do when faced with the problems of the world? Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Kirsti Nordstrom, Developmental Therapist. In the words of Wendell Berry, Kirsti encourages us to “Think Little” to make big and lasting changes. Also on this episode: Kirsti shares her experience in a difficult work environment that taught her to find her voice and speak up The important of asking and welcoming questions Learning to not internalize other people’s poor management Building capacity Kirsti moved to Nashville in the summer of 2021 after graduating from the University of Tennessee - Martin with a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences. She is a Developmental Therapist coaching parents that have children with developmental delays and has recently begun to volunteer with AWAKE (Advocates for Women's and Kids' Equality).  While Kirsti feels she is constantly in a questioning phase, trying to find long-term career goals, her desire is that whatever she does, she wants to inspire people to look for what is true, and ultimately good about their children, partners, community, and self. You can find Kirsti online at: Instagram @kirstisierra LinkedIn @kirsti-nordstrom You can find the National High School Ethics Bowl at nhseb.unc.edu Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

What matters (most) to your coworkers? Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Peter Noll, General Manager and CEO at WLJT-TV Channel 11, West Tennessee PBS. Peter encourages us to get to know what matters most to the people we work with. If we understand their currency, our working relationships and communication will improve. On this episode of Conflict Managed, Peter and I also discuss: Good enough vs Perfect “Merchandising” accomplishments The vital importance of continued education Reading your email (!) Peter Noll has had the privilege of working in the television industry for the past 28 years, a journey that has taken him to 11 television stations, eight states, 11 cities and includes working for The Walt Disney Company at the ABC Network in Burbank as the Director of Affiliate Marketing and Promotion. Prior to Peter’s position at West TN PBS, he was at WNBJ, West Tennessee’s local NBC and CW stations, where he served as General Manager since 2018 as well as the Group Director of Marketing and Promotions for Coastal Television, the station’s parent company. Beginning as a newscast producer for six years and then moving into marketing and promotions, Peter eventually moved into management and group marketing. A life-long viewer of PBS, beginning with Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood as a small boy, he regularly enjoys Frontline, anything Ken Burns produces and Masterpiece Theater. A believer in life-long learning, he earned his undergraduate degree in Journalism from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota and a Master of Organizational Leadership from Woodbury University in Burbank, California. Peter is a Minnesota native but has quickly fallen in love with West Tennessee and is very proud to call it his home. Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Landy Fuqua, the director of the Regional Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (REED) Center which houses the Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at the University of Tennessee Martin. Landy Fuqua is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and a Master of Business Administration.  Landy serves on the Northwest Tennessee Workforce Development Board, Weakley County Leadership committee and is president of the Martin Business Association board.  She is a graduate of the Delta Leadership Institute, WestStar Leadership, Weakley County Leadership, and served on the Delta Leadership Network’s Regional Advisory Council. In addition to serving as the full-time director, Landy is co-owner of Old Salem Farms, along with her husband of 44 years, Bill.  Together they have three daughters and eight grandchildren.   You can find Landy online at: [email protected] www.tsbdc.org linkedin.com/in/landy-fuqua-mba-tcecd-babb7b4b   Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Chris Smith, Lifeline Peer Project Coordinator for the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Chris shares his story of recovery and his work to build a sustainable recovery community. Chris Smith is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, Social Worker, Treasurer for UP Outreach, Committee member for West Tennessee Addiction Network, Part Restaurant Owner, Fitness Instructor, and Recovery Coach. Chris is passionate about helping individuals improve areas of their life they find themselves struggling in to become better and more productive for themselves, the people around them, and their community. You can find Chris online at: linkedin.com/in/chris-smith-10b837249   Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Today on Conflict Managed we are joined by Tracey Mebane, Human Resource Administrator & Special Projects at Lane College. We discuss the continuing effects of COVID on the workplace, adapting to change, sharing knowledge, and the importance of listening and caring for our co-workers. Tracey has more than 20 years of experience between the field of finance, banking, and human resources. She received several awards from First Tennessee Bank, now First Horizon and Citigroup, recognizing many of her accomplishments, particularly in leadership. In 2014 Tracey re-entered higher education at the non-profit HBCU, Lane College. Planning, directing, developing, coordinating, training, thinking strategically of the welfare of the college so that the college can continue to grow and educate is only a small part of her duties. Tracey has been a part of some amazing projects that took Lane College from paper to electronic processing, and she contributed to other cost saving projects. She led the development of the benefits and retirement committee that gives the faculty and staff a voice in decision making regarding health insurance and retirement benefits options. She is currently leading Lane College’s retirement transformation project. Tracey facilitates wellness lunch and learns focusing on balancing all aspect of life from spiritual, to financial to wellness and more.  She previously led the team that revised the employee handbook and she sits on the president’s leadership team. Tracey is a member of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) and currently volunteers on the West Tennessee SHRM executive board and is on her second year as Community Outreach Director, raising over 10k for different community outreach projects in 2022. She is also a non-medical emergency volunteer for West Tennessee. Tracey attended Airline School in Pompano, FL and worked at Memphis International after high school. She has an Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology from Jackson State Community College, a Bachelor of Science from University of Tennessee at Martin and a MBA with distinctions from Grantham University who as now joined the curriculum at the University of Arkansas. Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

How do you feel on your way to work? Today on Conflict Managed, we are joined by Jonathan Wilson. Jonathan has over 28 years’ experience working for the Metropolitan Police (United Kingdom) with much of that time in senior leadership roles.  Jonathan’s police leadership required him to work with diverse communities, businesses, local authorities, across a number of government departments including the Home Office and Mayor of London’s office and internationally.  He has considerable experience in prevention strategies, legislative changes, working with vulnerable groups, and partnership work. During his police career Jonathan obtained a law degree at the University of Westminster Law School and an Economics with Cultural Studies degree at the School of African and Asian Studies, University of Sussex. Jonathan recently retired from the Police Service in 2020 after a traumatic experience of workplace bullying, a period of his life that impacted on him considerably. He now dedicates much of his time to education and challenging workplace bullying behaviors which he says is entirely preventable and creating positive workplace culture. Jonathan now talks widely across social media and to businesses in person about psychosocial safety at work. He says, “Psychosocial safety is a leadership issue, and how you interact with people impacts their whole lives. It is therefore the most pressing issue of the contemporary workplace to master. Teaching your leaders interpersonal communications skills that empower not diminish. At the heart of bullying is always complex human dynamics and often unethical behaviours, corruption, discrimination, and harassment will emerge as the reason. Look deeper.” Jonathan lives in Cornwall and has also established a business running holiday cottages which allows him to pursue the many outdoor activities he enjoys both on and off the water. You can find Jonathan online at linkedin.com/in/jonathan-wilson-51a1407b Resources mention on this podcast: The Bullied Brain: Heal Your Scars and Restore Your Health by Dr. Jennifer Fraser Bully-ology: How to use Martial Arts to Stand Up for Yourself, Defeat Bullies and Show the World What You Can Do by Ryan Johnson Stop Hurt at Work: https://www.conductchange.co.uk/stophurtatwork   Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Today on Conflict Managed, we are joined by Courtney Echols, Director of Weakley County Prevention Coalition. Courtney tells us what it felt like to work for a boss that gave her both the guidance and autonomy to make significant decisions and execute her plans. Courtney encourages us to focus on what is in our control at work, such as taking care of ourselves. We also discuss the importance of clear communication, having a growth mindset, creativity, and the power of silence. Courtney Echols, a Jackson, TN native, graduated from the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. She served as the WCPC Program Coordinator from 2015-2018 before assuming the director role. Her top goal is to ensure the coalition remains a well-known resource to community members and implement effective strategies to reduce substance misuse and abuse among youth and young adults in the county.  She has extensive experience in planning, leadership development, team facilitation, and cross-sector collaboration and engagement. She also is a certified Responsible Beverage Service instructor, Certified Prevention Specialist, and graduate of CADCA Academy. She lives in Martin, TN, with her husband, Kameron, and their two children, Jaylen and Allie. She serves on various civic and volunteer groups and is passionate about helping others and making the community safer. You can reach Courtney at [email protected] Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Who should solve your workplace conflict? Today on Conflict Managed, we are joined by D.G. Mawn, president of the National Association for Community Mediation (NAFCM). He reminds us individuals involved in conflict should be the ones to resolve their conflict, rather than outside parties. If we want to really address issues at work, we need to not only listen to those in conflict but see them. D.G. Mawn has served NAFCM in several roles, first as a member of the Board of the Directors (2012-2014) then as the JAMS Foundation Mini-Grant Program Manager (2014-2016), and currently serves NAFCM as the President of the membership association. He is an attorney licensed in Illinois and Kentucky. D.G. co-developed the Cultural Intuitiveness process and provides consultation and coaching to state, public and community-based organizations on human services/system development and effectiveness, leadership development, strategic planning and communication, cultural intuitiveness, sustainability and evaluation. D.G. has worked in the local, state and federal level health systems interweaving his background in anthropology, religion and law in a manner that connects well within the political setting as well as the community setting. Through-out his career he has sought to appreciate the culture and systems of community and follow empathetic processes that strengthen both the individual and the system in order to facilitate the creation of sustainable positive impacts.   Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Today on Conflict Managed, Carolina Vela shares the impact of the best boss she’s worked for. He treated her as a leader, and that’s what she became. We discuss the power of appreciation, the reciprocal nature of leadership, and the importance of communicating and leading to produce self-confidence. Carolina Vela, from León, México, is a 23-year-old international student with a bachelor’s degree in International Business from La Universidad de La Salle Bajío, and an international exchange experience in France, at IÉSEG School of Management. Vela, moved to Tennessee last year to start her MBA at UT Martin, and to immerse in her father’s small business, Marias Mexican Restaurant in McKenzie, TN. Vela is currently working for the UT Martin REED Center as a Graduate Assistant with hopes to learn, improve, and keep acquiring experience in the business field for the future. Vela is fluent in Spanish, English and French, and loves to travel the globe, facing new experiences and challenges, personal, cultural, and professionally. You can find her online: https://www.instagram.com/caro_vela/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/carolina.velarodriguez?mibextid=LQQJ4d https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolina-vela-rodriguez-6a73381b2/ Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

With so much to do, where should you focus your energy? Today on Conflict Managed, Dr. Erik Nordberg shares his 10-year leadership journey and what he has learned along the way. He offers strategies for working with people we find difficult and the importance of really embracing DEI. Erik Nordberg is Dean of the Paul Meek Library at the University of Tennessee at Martin. He holds an MSLS degree from Wayne State University and earned his PhD at Michigan Technological University. He was employed as a professional archivist at Indiana University of South Bend, Michigan Tech, and is former director of the Walter Reuther Library at Wayne State. Nordberg was dean of libraries at Indiana University of Pennsylvania before beginning his current role in February 2021. Nordberg was part of the 2022 cohort for Leadership Weakley County and is a member of the Weakley County Historical and Genealogical Society and the Friends of the Martin Public Library.  He and his wife, Jane Nordberg, live with their two cats in Martin, Tennessee. You can find Erik online at https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-nordberg/ Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot. You can also find us on TikTok @3pconflictrestoration 

Today on Conflict Managed, Lisa Tilley encourages us to look for ways to bring teams together. Lisa recalls a simple and effective activity she employed to bring her team together to meet (and exceed) goals and celebrate milestones along the way. Lisa talks to us about the demoralizing and costly consequences of poor management and encourages us to invest in coaching and leadership training for the health and wellbeing of the people we work with as well as for the longevity of the organization. Lisa Tilley, Coach and Leadership Trainer LT Leadership, LLC, Founder and Owner Lisa earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin. She started her career in the Public Health space conducting community outreach programs to promote health education in communities and school systems throughout West Tennessee. For the past 15 years, she has worked as a business development, sales, and marketing professional in the senior industry, which includes hospice, senior living, and in-home senior care services. Her most recent position was Area Manager of Hospice Outreach. Lisa is certified with New Life Leadership and the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team as a speaker, leadership trainer, coach, and DISC behavioral analysis trainer. She is licensed to present John Maxwell curriculum and offers workshops, trainings, mastermind groups and coaching to aid in personal growth and professional development to individuals, companies, schools, and organizations. She is passionate about influencing and adding value to others to help reach their goals. Lisa founded LT Leadership, LLC, in the spring of 2022 and has worked with companies such as Touching Hearts at Home in Milan, Home Instead Senior Care and Hub City Tax Services in Jackson. She has also contracted with the Small Business Administration to conduct lunch and learns. Lisa has been married to Joey for 6 years. They are a blended family with 3 children and reside in Medina, Tennessee. You can find Lisa online at  http://www.johnmaxwellgroup.com/lisatilley. Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Have you ever felt trapped at work, focusing on how you’re limited and what you can’t do? Today on Conflict Managed, Stephen Adams, Founder and Director of Inspirational Coaching Limited, encourages us to reframe our disempowering self-talk, and ask ourselves, “What can I do?”   After 26 years working for a well-known UK retail bank, Stephen Adams took redundancy in the autumn of 2019. Despite working in the finance sector for most of his career, his roles & responsibilities primarily focused on supporting people rather than dealing with money. Stephen’s extensive exposure to numerous organizational changes led him to quickly learn that addressing staff and management issues swiftly, efficiently and fairly was paramount to leading a successful and harmonious team. Subsequently, Stephen was fortunate to find a 3-year appointment at an established consultancy that offered him an opportunity to hone everything he had learned to date. During his tenure, Stephen partnered with a broad mix of British and international clients, whom each gave him an insight into a spectrum of problems that occur in their respective industries. It became clear that irrespective of the nature of their businesses, many companies shared common scenarios which needed professional support. For each and every situation there was a series of steps to follow in order to establish the cause of a problem and implement a variety of proven techniques to bring about a positive result. Reviewing and assessing a deep-rooted employee concern without the necessary experience and adequate tool set will not remedy a challenging situation. But with a well-considered program of Mediation, Authentic Leadership and Modernizing of HR policies, as well as some essential guidance on how best to apply it, there will be a solution. You can find Stephen Adams online at: www.inspirationalcoachinglimited.com Linked In - linkedin.com/in/stephen-adams-9149738 Youtube - Inspirational Coaching Limited Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.

Today on Conflict Managed, Brooke Simmons challenges us to choose optimism. We discuss the impact of bosses who encourage and empower their teams, the value (and difficulty) of listening to feedback, and the importance of being agile and flexible to stay competitive. Brooke Simmons is Community Relations Director for the Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation. In her role, she is an active member of the Obion County community and spends her time working to improve quality of life for citizens. She is involved in organizations such as Main Street Union City, Carl Perkins Center Advisory Board, Union City J’Cettes, Obion County Junior Auxiliary, Fall Fest Board, and MORCEA Regional Alliance. Brooke enjoys leadership programs and is a graduate of Adult Leadership Obion County, Delta Leadership Institute, and Harvard Kennedy School of Government Authentic Leadership Program. She now serves as a board member for the Obion County Leadership Program and enjoys serving as a mentor the those going through the class. Brooke is a local small business owner to Lillian’s Marketplace. She has a strong passion for growing entrepreneurship in her community and hopes that she can help cultivate other young entrepreneurs through her business. She enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, Beau, and their 2 dogs. Please like and subscribe to Conflict Managed wherever you listen to podcasts. Conflict Managed is hosted by Merry Brown and produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services. Contact us at [email protected]. Our music is courtesy of Dove Pilot.