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Polarizing Conversations: How to Talk About Triggering Topics

April 29 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Do you want to learn how to maintain relationships when discussing potentially triggering issues? Many people find themselves ill-prepared for these conversations and, as a result, avoid them or feel overwhelmed when they’re happening. This workshop equips you with skills for managing your own emotions and understanding the various dynamics of having polarizing discussions so you can confidently ensure they are productive and respectful. This is helpful for talking about things such as gender and equity, race relations, environmentalism, the pandemic, and remote work. No matter where you might have to discuss a polarizing issue, this workshop teaches you to do so in a way that will leave everyone feeling heard and respected.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion, participants should be able to:

  • Explain polarizing conversations and their many layers
  • Identify our natural emotional responses to challenging interactions
  • Utilize listening and validation to reduce tension
  • Demonstrate how to set up conversations for success and make people feel safe
  • Practice skills to engage in conversations about polarizing topics

Method of Delivery

Presentation, case study exercises, experiential practice, and personal reflection, delivered electronically.

*Please allow only the registered individual(s) to view the materials.

Note: An e-manual for this workshop is included in purchase.

Some of the Topics Included

  • Understanding the Dynamics of Polarizing Topics
  • Our Natural Responses to Challenging Interactions
  • Preparing for the Polarized Conversation
  • Depersonalizing the Conversation
  • Finding Common Ground
  • Utilizing Empathy and Validation
  • How to Help People Feel Safe
  • Engaging in a Respectful Conversation

Target Audience

This is an introductory-intermediate level workshop applicable to both employees and managers.

Terms & Conditions

View our cancellation policy and other information regarding your live virtual workshop or for your in-person workshop.

The fees above are for a live event and do not include any copyright or licensing fees for creating recordings or reproductions of the workshop. Participants may not use AI tools or other technology to capture, transcribe, or replicate facilitator content without prior written consent. Exceptions may be granted for accessibility purposes—please contact us in advance to discuss accommodations.

This is a live virtual event, please check your system requirements prior to registering.

Participants will receive the Zoom meeting login details and information about viewing the live virtual workshop by email 3-4 calendar days prior to the date of the event.
Please note, payment is required in order to receive the login details.

Facilitator: Andrew Wychnenka

Andrew is a conflict management professional with over a decade of experience in delivering conflict management services such as mediation, coaching, and training in a variety of sectors. He is passionate about helping people understand conflict and find solutions to problems that seem insurmountable on their own. He has a bachelor’s degree in Conflict Resolution Studies and Psychology and holds a Chartered Mediator designation through the Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Canada. He has conducted over 100 mediation processes in court, family, workplace, and community settings, and has over 18 years of service as a leader in the Canadian military, which includes a deployment to Afghanistan. He also spent five years as a conflict management expert for a government department where he offered internal mediation services, training, and group processes. Andrew believes that a having a mindset that focuses on seeking understanding is the key to resolving conflict. As a facilitator, he is passionate about making the content of a workshop relatable through practical examples and dialogue among participants.

Venue

  • Online