The Science of Difficult Conversations

The Science of Difficult Conversations

From Work Unplugged by Amrit Sandhar

June 2, 2026 · 27 min · Season 1 · Episode 25

About this episode

Amrit and Ali discuss the science of difficult conversations at work and strategies to handle them effectively.

In this episode, Amrit and Ali from the &Evolve team delve into the science behind ‘difficult’ conversations at work and why they can feel so challenging in the moment. We explore how our innate threat responses (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn) can become activated, often hijacking our thinking and behaviour just when we need to be at our best. With this understanding, we discuss how to prepare more effectively for these conversations, drawing on the latest psychological and organisational research. Together, we explore practical strategies to stay grounded, communicate clearly, and create the conditions for more constructive, successful outcomes - even in high-stakes or emotionally charged situations.

People in this episode

Host: Amrit Sandhar

Guest: Ali

Topics covered

  • difficult conversations
  • communication strategies
  • psychological research
  • emotional intelligence
  • workplace dynamics

Keywords

  • difficult conversations
  • threat responses
  • communication
  • psychology
  • workplace
  • emotional situations
  • constructive outcomes

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: &Evolve

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