Shows
All Things ConflictThe Elasticity of Decision-Making: Understanding Conflict in Infrastructure ProjectsIn this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria engages in a conversation with Hervé de Trogoff, CEO of the international consultancy Accuracy. They delve into the complexities of the construction industry, exploring the myriad conflicts that arise from high-stakes infrastructure projects. Hervé shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the challenges of decision-making in environments fraught with fear and insecurity. The discussion emphasises the importance of fostering genuine communication and emotional connection in resolving disputes, moving beyond mere technicalities to address the human elements at play. Hervé advocates for slowing down and allowing time for relationships to develop, ultimately lea...2025-07-2435 minAll Things ConflictCreating Safe Spaces: The Role of Empathy and Reflection in Workplace Mediation
In this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria Arpa MBE welcomes back her husband, David Ellis, a seasoned mediator with over 20 years of experience. They delve into the intricacies of workplace mediation, exploring how it transcends mere conflict resolution to foster genuine human connections. David emphasises the importance of creating a safe space for individuals to reflect on their experiences and emotions, allowing them to navigate their relationships more effectively. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of employment law and the necessity for employers to prioritise the well-being of their employees, highlighting that a compassionate...2025-07-1642 minAll Things ConflictWORKPLACE CONFLICT SPECIAL: An Episode with Shannon PearsonIn this deeply personal and raw conversation, Shannon Pearson opens up about her journey from being a trusted HR leader to becoming the target of a system she once believed in. What began as a career rooted in care and service unravelled in the face of organizational dysfunction, toxic silence, and moral injury.
This is not just a story of conflict — it's a story of betrayal, awakening, and personal transformation. Shannon speaks candidly about what it felt like to be gaslit, isolated, and ultimately broken by the very system she tried to help fix.
Now a...2025-07-141h 17All Things ConflictFamily, Trust & Fallout: Why Family Businesses Break Down - Ed WeeksIn this powerful episode, we dive into the emotional and legal complexities of family business conflict with solicitor and dispute resolution expert Ed Weeks. With decades of experience helping families navigate shareholder breakdowns, succession battles, and deep-seated sibling rivalries, Ed shares what really causes these disputes—and how to stop them from destroying relationships and companies alike.
We talk trust, betrayal, power dynamics, and why no one ever wants a shareholders’ agreement... until it’s too late. Ed also lifts the lid on the psychology behind mediation, why litigation often makes things worse, and how to spot the re...2025-07-0937 minAll Things ConflictThe Future of Work: Embracing Conflict as a Catalyst for Innovation and CreativityMaria engages in a thought-provoking conversation with David Liddle, founder of Total Conflict Management (TCM). They explore the transformative power of conflict resolution in workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of addressing unresolved conflict and fostering constructive dialogue. David shares his journey from community mediation to developing innovative frameworks that prioritize empathy, collaboration, and restorative practices in organizational settings. The discussion highlights the detrimental effects of traditional grievance procedures and the need for a shift towards more inclusive and supportive systems that empower individuals and promote high performance. With insights drawn from David's extensive experience and upcoming publications, this episode...2025-07-0245 minAll Things ConflictHealthy Conflict Resolution: Strategies for Effective Leadership and Team DynamicsIn this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria Arpa engages in a thought-provoking conversation with John Cullum, a seasoned leader with extensive experience in both corporate and charitable sectors. They explore the nuances of conflict in leadership, emphasising the importance of listening and empathy in navigating challenges within organisations. John shares insights from his diverse career, including his time at Ford Motor Company and various non-executive roles, highlighting the significance of healthy debate and the value of 360-degree feedback in fostering better communication among teams. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of leadership, the privilege of guiding...2025-06-2535 min
All Things ConflictThe Philosophy of Systemic Win: How Leaders Can Foster Flourishing SystemsMaria Arpa welcomes back philosopher Paul Baker to delve into the complexities of leadership, board dynamics, and the philosophy of Systemic Win. They explore how boards can assess their effectiveness not only through self-evaluation but also by considering the perspectives of those affected by their decisions. Paul emphasizes the importance of moving beyond a punitive, adversarial mindset to foster a culture of collaboration and learning. Through engaging examples, including a poignant story about a charity's evolution, they discuss the critical relationship between leaders and followers, the necessity of open communication, and the need for systemic awareness in decision-making. The...2025-06-1833 min
All Things ConflictEmotional Intelligence in Leadership: Lessons from Simon Woodroffe's Business EvolutionIn this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Simon Woodroffe, the founder of Yo Sushi and Yotel, and a former dragon on Dragon's Den. Simon shares his journey from a headstrong entrepreneur with little formal education to a leader who values connection and rapport in business. He reflects on the challenges of navigating relationships in the entrepreneurial world and emphasizes the importance of building goodwill and trust. The discussion touches on personal development, the significance of emotional connections in leadership, and the cultural differences in service and teamwork. Simon also shares pivotal moments...2025-06-1137 min
All Things ConflictThe Role of Transparency in Conflict Resolution: A Conversation with Alex DunlopIn this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria welcomes lawyer and mediator Alex Dunlop, an expert in international dispute resolution. The conversation delves into the complexities of workplace conflicts, particularly at senior management levels, exploring common pitfalls such as pride, ego, and miscommunication. Alex shares insights from his extensive experience, emphasizing the importance of transparency and the often-overlooked psychological aspects of conflict, including the impact of media scrutiny and social dynamics reminiscent of schoolyard behavior. The discussion also touches on the challenges of power imbalances in mediation and the need for empathy and understanding in resolving disputes. With a...2025-06-0434 min
All Things ConflictBuilding Healthy Board Relationships: Strategies for Effective Communication and Conflict ResolutionMaria welcomes the esteemed Murray Steele, a seasoned expert with over 30 years of experience as a non-executive director and chair of various boards. Murray shares his insights on the complexities of board dynamics, particularly the role of conflict in fostering productive discussions. He emphasizes the importance of non-executive directors in challenging executive mindsets and stimulating necessary debates, especially during crises. Throughout the conversation, they explore the delicate balance between generating constructive conflict and maintaining healthy relationships within the boardroom. Murray also discusses the qualities that make an effective non-executive director and the significance of preparation and emotional intelligence in...2025-05-2834 min
All Things ConflictNavigating Leadership: The Unspoken Conversations That Shape Business SuccessMaria Arpa MBE introduces the second series of All Things Conflict, focusing on the critical role of leadership in navigating workplace dynamics. Building on insights from the first series, which explored various perspectives within workplaces, this new series aims to delve into the experiences of directors, senior leadership teams, and entrepreneurs. The host emphasizes the importance of open conversations about potential challenges and conflicts that may arise as businesses evolve, highlighting the need for proactive communication strategies. By addressing the often-ignored "unsaid conversations," the episode sets the stage for discussions on how to manage conflict creatively and constructively. Listeners...2025-05-2107 min
All Things ConflictBehind the Scenes of Business Disputes: A Candid Conversation on Leadership and Emotional Well-beingMaria invites her husband, David, a mediator and former managing director of a three-generation family business, to share his journey through the complexities of family dynamics and workplace conflict. David reflects on the contrasting leadership styles of his grandfather and father, highlighting the challenges of navigating a business steeped in tradition while adapting to modern demands. The conversation delves into the toxic undercurrents of unresolved family disputes that permeated the workplace, revealing how personal struggles often manifest in professional settings. As David recounts his transformative experience in mediation training, he emphasises the importance of understanding the human condition in...2025-05-2135 min
All Things ConflictFrom Judgment to Understanding: Transforming Conversations in Conflict ResolutionTo conclude this series of All Things Conflict: Workplaces, Maria Arpa MBE reflects on the key insights shared by various guests regarding workplace conflict. Maria introduces the metaphor of "plumbing" to illustrate the importance of having effective systems in place for navigating human interactions, suggesting that meaningful conversations are essential for any task or goal. The episode encourages listeners to foster connections and maintain ongoing dialogue about culture change in workplaces. Additionally, the host shares resources for further engagement, including their website and a charity focused on conflict resolution. Key Takeaways Escalation of Conflict: Conflict...2025-05-1403 min
All Things ConflictNavigating Conflict: How Effective Communication Can Prevent Workplace TensionMaria Arpa MBE sits down with James Ellis, a coach and coach trainer who specialises in enhancing workplace dynamics across various sectors, including education and private equity. James shares valuable insights on the importance of effective communication and the role of coaching in fostering a positive workplace culture. He emphasises the significance of upfront conversations, or "contracting," to prevent conflicts and improve interactions among team members. The discussion also explores how individuals can shift from a fear-based mindset to one rooted in values, ultimately leading to more constructive relationships. Listeners are encouraged to adopt practical strategies, such as replacing...2025-05-0731 min
All Things ConflictNavigating Difficult Conversations: A Manager's Guide to Addressing Employee BehaviorThis episode of 'All Things Conflict' is completely different to what you will hear anywhere else. Today Maria Arpa MBE engages in a LIVE case study. From this episode YOU will learn how Maria would navigate a tough conversation within the workplace and what steps she would take to make sure the conflict is as minimal as possible. Key Takeaways Addressing Behavior with Compassion: It's important to approach difficult conversations with empathy and clarity, ensuring that the employee understands the issue while feeling supported rather than attacked. Encouraging Self-Awareness: Employees should be encouraged...2025-04-3030 min
All Things ConflictCommunication in Chaos: How to Foster Clarity and Connection in a Growing Restaurant BusinessMaria Arpa MBE engages in a conversation with Cornelia Staeubli, CEO and co-founder of the renowned Ottolenghi restaurant chain. They explore the complexities of workplace dynamics from an employer's perspective, particularly focusing on the challenges of scaling a small family business from 20 to nearly 600 employees. Cornelia shares insights on the importance of communication, the need for clear processes, and the value of investing in staff development, especially in the high-pressure hospitality industry. The discussion also touches on the significance of understanding cultural differences among a diverse workforce and the necessity of addressing conflicts promptly to maintain a positive work...2025-04-2333 min
All Things ConflictEmbracing Purpose and Connection: Insights from Adrian Pagdin on Transformative LeadershipMaria Arpa MBE engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Adrian Pagdin, a leadership development expert with a rich background in hospitality and coaching. Adrian shares his transformative journey at Unilever, where he was deeply involved in promoting a purpose-led culture. He reflects on the challenges he faced when a personality clash disrupted his previously harmonious work environment, leading to feelings of burnout and confusion. The discussion delves into the complexities of workplace conflict, the importance of authenticity, and the power of resilience. Adrian emphasises the significance of self-awareness and the choice to respond with gratitude and compassion, ultimately highlighting...2025-04-1628 min
All Things ConflictChoices in Conflict: Ignoring, Competing, or Collaborating for a Better FutureMaria Arpa MBE engages in a thought-provoking conversation with her friend and philosopher, Paul, about the concept of "systemic win." They explore the dynamics of conflict resolution, emphasising the importance of not just achieving a win-win situation but ensuring that all parties, including the broader community and environment, benefit from the resolution. Paul shares insights on how to navigate disagreements, the significance of awareness in communication, and the need for collaboration over competition. The discussion highlights the philosophical underpinnings of their approaches to conflict and the necessity of aligning individual and collective interests for sustainable relationships, both personally and...2025-04-0924 min
All Things ConflictSpeaking Truth to Power: Michelle Cox's Journey Through Racism in the NHSMaria Arpa MBE welcomes Michelle Cox, a race equality consultant and fellow with the Royal College of Nursing, who shares her powerful journey of confronting racism within the NHS. Michelle recounts her experiences of discrimination and the bold decision to take her case to an Employment Tribunal, highlighting the challenges she faced in advocating for fairness and equity in the workplace. Through her story, she emphasizes the importance of speaking truth to power, the need for organizations to listen to their employees, and the profound impact of systemic racism. Michelle also discusses her current work, including her consultancy, activism...2025-04-0943 min
All Things ConflictWelcome to All Things Conflict - Series 1: WorkplacesWelcome to All Things Conflict! In this introductory episode, Maria Arpa MBE explains what 'All Things Conflict' is and why this podcast will help you to resolve any conflicts within your life. Whether it's at home, personal life or in the Workplace. This series we will be focusing on workplace conflicts Maria will look into where they may arise and how to resolve these conflicts whether your employee or the employer. Welcome to All Things Conflict! Related links Website https://mariaarpa.com/ Workplace Consultancy https://workplacehuddle.com/2025-04-0908 min
All Things ConflictFrom Detective to True Crime Presenter: Jackie Malton's Journey Through Workplace Conflict and Personal TransformationMaria Arpa MBE welcomes retired detective and true crime presenter Jackie Malton to discuss her extensive career in the Metropolitan Police and the inner conflicts faced by women in the workplace. Jackie shares her experiences of navigating a male-dominated environment, the challenges of sexual discrimination, and the personal toll it took on her mental health. She reflects on her journey of self-discovery, recovery from alcoholism, and the importance of finding one's authentic self amidst societal pressures. The conversation delves into the dynamics of workplace culture, the bystander effect, and the need for critical loyalty in addressing wrongdoing. Jackie also...2025-04-0938 min
The Inclusion Bites PodcastNavigating Conflict with Compassion: Transforming Adversity into Understanding Navigating Conflict with Compassion: Transforming Adversity into Understanding
Maria Arpa explores the delicate transition from conflict to compassion, highlighting the balance of ethics, logic, and emotion in communication, the transformative power of empathy, and the profound impact of humanising dialogues.
In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood invites Maria Arpa for a heartfelt discussion on cultivating compassion in the face of conflict. Joanne underscores Aristotle's three pillars, emphasising the need for a balance of ethics, logic, and emotion in communication. Maria introduces the concept of moving conversations from intellectual realms to embodied...2024-11-071h 05