In this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria Arpa welcomes Michelle Pinckney, a nurturing community member and caterer, to discuss the often-overlooked impacts of conflict within community settings. Drawing from her experiences, Michelle shares insights on the challenges of leadership, the importance of effective communication, and the detrimental effects of suspicion and rivalry among community members. She emphasises the need for curiosity over suspicion and highlights the significance of understanding intentions in fostering healthy relationships. As they explore the dynamics of giving and receiving support, Michelle also shares her journey of transitioning into a catering business focused on nutritious, farm-to-table meals, aiming to serve those in need while nurturing the community. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on the complexities of community life and the potential for healing through connection and service.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Good Intentions vs. Capability: Many individuals in community settings have good intentions but may lack the capacity to provide the necessary support, leading to frustration and conflict.

Communication is Key: Misunderstandings often arise from a lack of effective communication. The message sent is not always the message received, which can lead to unnecessary conflict.

Curiosity Over Suspicion: Transforming suspicion into curiosity can help resolve conflicts. Instead of making assumptions, approaching situations with a desire to understand can foster better relationships and communication.

Leadership Dynamics: In community settings, there can be a struggle for leadership roles, leading to rivalry and fragmentation. Effective leadership requires collaboration and the ability to share power, rather than hoarding it.

Healing Through Service: Engaging in acts of service, such as providing nutritious food, can be a powerful way to nurture both individuals and communities, promoting healing and connection.

BEST MOMENTS

"When conflict arises and it's not resolved in a healthy way, there are all these other people that suffer at the other end of that." - Maria Arpa

"Sometimes we may just need someone to just sit down and have a cup of tea with someone else and just be there with them." - Michelle Pinkney

"The message sent is not always the message received." - Michelle Pinkney

"Changing suspicion to curiosity can change how you see something and how you want to handle it going forward." - Michelle Pinkney

"There's a way that the leader... isn't given... the reins." - Michelle Pinkney

SOCIAL LINKS

www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org

www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk

www.workplacehuddle.com

HOST BIO

Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM).  

Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/