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In early 2025, I conducted a climate assessment for a transportation department in a California school district. The goal? To listen deeply, understand the hidden stories behind tension and toxicity,…
With the upcoming elections, political conversations are everywhere, from family dinners to workplace chats. While discussing politics can offer a chance to understand diverse perspectives, it can also lead to…
A Journey of Transformation On a recent episode of “Decoding the Conflict Mindset” podcast, host Dr. Debra Dupree interviewed Luann Horobin about her evolution from corporate healthcare management to becoming…
Welcome to another insightful episode of “Decoding the Conflict Mindset.” I’m Dr. Debra Dupree, and today; I am thrilled to introduce Jack Schaedel, a highly experienced employment lawyer with over…
Ramping up for Virtual Partnerships in Dispute Resolution
The world was thrust into the virtual world with the global explosion of COVID-19 shutting down businesses, disrupting services and taking a massive toll on lives. It was a world of rapid transition and one that we had little to no experience in how to navigate. Many of us were left scratching our heads and asking “what could happen next?” READ MORE >>
2020: My AHA! moments in a nutshell
It was the eve of Christmas Eve when I reunited with my good friend, Linda. She traveled to Denver before Thanksgiving to help out her sister with a relocation and set up the new house. Then, COVID-19 hit again and she was gone for nearly four weeks. That’s what sisters do, even in times of COVID. We both love dogs and our “girls” missed each other as much as we, the humans, missed the “live” connection. The distance in time was felt by all. READ MORE >>
Today’s Modern Mediator: Words, Technology & Presence Matter
Looking back, I find it amazing that anything settled with the traditional legal approach to mediation. Both the process and the language used have been inextricably bound by courtroom ideology. That’s not how I learned mediation. I actually strayed away from the process given what I saw what was happening. Using mediation as a settlement conference, or a stepping stone along the way, is not the “true” definition of mediation. READ MORE >>
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Understanding SB 553 Jack Schaedels Guide to Workplace Violence Prevention
California’s SB 553 law mandates employers to develop comprehensive workplace violence prevention plans. This law aims to address the increasing concern of workplace violence by categorizing violence into four distinct types, outlining strategies for prevention and management. Jack Schaedel emphasizes the importance of early intervention to prevent minor conflicts from escalating into severe issues, potentially leading to adverse and escalating situations, including litigation or violence. READ MORE >>
From Conflict to Collaboration: Transforming Your Workplace with the Power of Mediation
“Litigators often come to mediation with their advocate hats on, ready to argue and defend their client’s position,” Angela noted. “However, for mediation to be successful, it’s important to set aside that mindset for a day and embrace the principles of conflict resolution and collaboration.” She stressed the importance of viewing mediation as a space for conversation, not confrontation. She encouraged legal representatives to shift their approach to facilitate a more productive and positive mediation experience. READ MORE >>
90-Second De-Escalation: Taming Anger with Empathy and Control
Conflicts and arguments are common in today’s world. Dealing with an angry person can be highly stressful at home, work, or in public, even for the most composed individuals. In this article, we explore techniques to calm any angry person in 90 seconds or less, based on the expertise of attorney, mediator, innovator, peacekeeper, and author Doug Noll. Doug Noll has extensive experience in conflict resolution, having worked as a lawyer and litigator for over 20 years. After a personal injury, Noll turned to yoga and alternative sports, embarking on a more mindful path. READ MORE >>
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Let’s Talk Politics: Navigating Heated Discussions Without Damaging Relationships
With the upcoming elections, political conversations are everywhere, from family dinners to workplace chats. While discussing politics can offer a chance to understand diverse perspectives, it can also lead to tension and conflict. READ MORE >>
Conquering Conflict: How to Have Curious Conversations at Work
Does the mere mention of a difficult conversation with a colleague send shivers down your spine? You’re not alone. Fear of conflict is a universal experience, but it can also be a major roadblock to achieving your goals and fostering a positive work environment. The good news? Conflict doesn’t have to be a destructive volcano erupting in the middle of the office. In fact, with the right approach, it can be an opportunity for growth and collaboration. READ MORE >>
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JUNE Episode: Handling ADA Violations and Fitness for Duty
Over the years, we have observed a notable increase in the variety and complexity of medical conditions employees bring to the workplace. This rise presents new challenges for employers, requiring constant updates in knowledge about laws, court rulings, and best practices in disability management. We aim to share this information and help you navigate these situations effectively. READ MORE >>
Adam Morell Navigating the Interactive Process
On February 24, 2020, I had the wonderful opportunity to interview Adam Morell, the National Director of ADA Compliance with Sedgwick on “Navigating the Interactive Process.” Here are some of the fascinating details he brought to our live show about the current state of affairs as they apply to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which you can hear by clicking here. READ MORE >>