Conflict Stories Podcast

US-based mediator, author and mental health advocate Dan Berstein brings a powerful perspective shaped by his lived experience with bipolar disorder and his work in dispute resolution. Founder of MH Mediate and co-founder of the Dispute Resolution in Mental Health Initiative at the CUNY Dispute Resolution Center, Dan has spent more than a decade helping courts, legal practitioners and organisations better navigate mental health and conflict. Through personal stories - including family estrangement and professional challenges - Dan shines a light on stigma, resilience and the courage it takes to find voice + help others do the same. Special Note: We recorded this episode in June 2025. Dan asked to delay the release because he was struggling with next steps related to the mental illness stigma conflicts discussed in the episode. Now, he has launched DisabilityRadar.com to help anyone who might be targeted by the exclusionary mental illness "radars" we discussed in this episode. He also suggested we air the podcast now, nine months after it was recorded.Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meditation teacher, filmmaker + university leader Mayur Katariya has lived a life shaped by cultural crossroads and inner evolution. Growing up in Gujarat, conflict largely lay beneath the surface of unspoken expectations; coming to Australia revealed how a more forthright communication style can bring what’s hidden into the light. Mayur’s award-winning film Ek Aasha, amplifying the journeys of transgender communities in India, reflects his belief in storytelling as a force for justice, empathy + visibility. As a long-time meditation practitioner and teacher grounded in non-dual philosophy, Mayur brings a calm, insightful approach to conflict - exploring how awareness, compassion and presence can transform how we understand ourselves and each other.Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Narrative therapist and mediator Debbie Dunn shares her remarkable journey from being dishonourably discharged from the British Women’s Air Force for her same-sex relationship to becoming a pioneering voice in narrative mediation and workplace bullying support. Debbie delves into her personal story of resilience, the significance of narrative techniques in mediation and the transformative power of sharing one's story to move from shame to strength. Debbie's story is a testament to how sharing our narratives - including those shaped through struggle - can become an act of courage, connection + change.Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

CEO, Advocate and Change-Maker Stacey Ross is a visionary and dynamic leader transforming how communities respond to domestic, family and sexual violence. As CEO of The Centre for Women & Co. and Men & Co. Services, she leads with purpose - delivering vital support across SE QLD and driving social justice reform nationwide. Stacey shares her leadership approach - turning conflict into growth, embedding values into daily practice and prioritising self-care + staff empowerment as essential to culture. She reveals why self-awareness and assuming good intent are leadership superpowers, and how they sustain high-performance teams in high-pressure, purpose-driven environments.Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of trauma, discrimination, captivity and sexual assault which some listeners may find distressing.In this episode of the Conflict Stories podcast, Sam and Scott speak with Rabia Siddique, an international humanitarian lawyer and former senior British Army officer. Rabia recounts her journey from a challenging multicultural childhood, through traumatic experiences, including being a hostage in Iraq, to her legal battle against institutional discrimination. She shares insights on personal resilience, the importance of justice, and the power of fighting for equality. Despite facing numerous adversities, Rabia's story is one of immense courage and unwavering commitment to human rights.Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mediator and social justice advocate Bruce Argyle reflects on a lifetime of resolving conflict - from youth work and parent-teen mediations to navigating high-stakes boardroom disputes and multi-party conflicts in a hospital ward.He shares the lessons of over 700 mediations, a vineyard sabotage, a Highlander sword siege, and the art of actually being heard. With humour, humility, and heart, Bruce explores what makes mediation work—and why respect is at the centre of it all.Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet your hosts, Sam Hardy + Scott Dutton – two dynamic voices in the world of conflict resolution.In this premiere episode, Sam - a ‘pracademic’ – unpacks how conflict can entrap or empower. While Scott - the ‘Conflict Whisperer’ - brings years of wisdom from thefrontlines of mediation + conflict training.Together, they share the inspiration behind Conflict Stories, drawing on professional + personal experiences. They dive into the emotional landscape of conflict, thepower of mindfulness + self-reflection, and how cultural perspectives shape conflict.Get ready for real talk, practical tools and expert insights to help you navigate conflict with clarity + confidence!Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.