Ever wondered why your team isn't talking to you about the real issues? This episode promises to transform how you understand and address communication barriers in leadership. I'll walk you through the four major signs that your team may not be communicating effectively: silence, indirect communication, excessive but meaningless chatter, and insincerity. We'll also dissect why these issues arise, whether it's due to power dynamics, gender, age, or physical size, and I'll share practical methods like 360 reviews to better foster an open line of communication. 

Next, we unpack the four main conflict styles—fight, flee, freeze, and fix or fawn—offering insights into how these behaviors show up in both professional and personal settings. From aggressive confrontations to complete avoidance, recognizing these styles is key to moving from emotional reactions to rational discussions. Real-life examples bring these concepts to life, giving you actionable strategies to handle conflicts more productively and return to a rational mindset.

Finally, we'll explore how early life experiences shape our responses to conflict and the universal need for belonging within teams and families. Understanding these triggers can lead to a more supportive environment, even when disagreements arise. I'll share a compelling case study of a former Navy SEAL who learned to navigate his own conflict triggers, offering profound lessons in empathy and constructive communication. This episode is loaded with valuable insights and practical advice for enhancing both your communication and conflict management skills as a leader.

Are you an executive, entrepreneur, or combat veteran looking to overcome subconscious blind spots and limiting messaging to unlock your highest performance? Feel free to reach out to Sean at Reload Coaching and Consulting.