We all have to have difficult conversations from time to time and some of these can be particularly challenging. What can we do to have more courageous conversations? In this episode, the Chief Psychology Officer explores how to navigate through uncomfortable topics with confidence, honesty and kindness and the impact avoiding these conversations can have on Psychological Safety. Amanda will look at different psychological theories, the latest research findings and share her insights from her work with organisations and individuals. She will also share some practical tips for delivering effective feedback and discuss different techniques for managing emotions from a neuroscience perspective. In this episode, Amanda is being interviewed by Angela Malik. The Chief Psychology Officer website is now available https://www.thecpo.co.uk/ To contact Amanda via email: [email protected] Please like and follow Zircon for more podcasts and articles at https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/ To contact Amanda or Angela via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amandapotterzircon and linkedin.com/in/angela-malik-1749b84b For more information about the work we do with clients in this space please contact the Zircon team on +44 (0)208 645 0222. For more information about the BeTalent Resilience questionnaires mentioned in this podcast please go to: https://www.betalent.com Timestamps How to have Courageous Conversations ·       00:00 – Introduction to (Courageous) Conversations with Friends ·       01:13 – What is a Courageous Conversation? ·       02:23 – Why is this so important? ·       03:07 – Hyper-focusing Breaking barriers, not bad ·       04:11 – Psychological blockers ·       04:26 – Bystander Apathy ·       06:03 – Imposter Syndrome revisited ·       07:32 – External Locus of Control revisited ·       08:01 – Internal Locus of Control revisited ·       08:30 – I need control ·       10:09 – Signs of discomfort ·       10:19 – Micro-assessments ·       11:16 – Link between Courageous Conversation & Psychological Safety The real world explained… ·       12:19 – €1 Billion in product damage! ·       13:12 – It’s not just about people, it’s also the business ·       14:24 – Psychologists aren’t immune to risks of unsafe environments ·       16:00 – Improving Communication ·       16:54 – Times when courage is needed ·       17:14 – Setting Goals & Objectives ·       17:22 – Establishing Trust ·       18:16 – Practice makes perfect ·       19:27 – It can happen to anyone Bring on the Neuroscience! ·       20:39 – Neuroscience! What happens… ·       22:43 – Negativity Bias ·       25:22 – How to deliver difficult messages in an accepting way Creating Courageous Conversations & QBID ·       26:58 – Prepare! ·       27:17 – Manage your own emotions ·       27:48 – Do you like role play? ·       28:39 – Be yourself ·       29:05 – QBID ·       30:42 – Respect, respect, respect ·       33:58 – Enhancing what we already have ·       34:51 – The end.