How can high-quality conversations untie the knots holding teams back?
APR 16, 202639 MIN
How can high-quality conversations untie the knots holding teams back?
APR 16, 202639 MIN
Description
In an increasingly complex, polarised, and fast‑moving world, the ability to have high‑quality conversations may be one of the most important leadership skills we have.In this episode of We Not Me, Dan Hammond and Pia Lee are joined by Dianna Anderson, founding member of the International Coaching Federation and a pioneer of coaching-based leadership. Together, they explore why conversations are the hidden engine of change — and how curiosity, presence, and shared language can help teams and societies move forward together.Dianna introduces her framework “Untying the Knot”, offering a practical way to understand what really blocks progress in conversations — and how to shift from argument and polarity to connection, trust, and hope.🎯 Three Reasons to ListenLearn a simple framework for navigating difficult conversations Diana’s Untying the Knot model helps you quickly identify what’s really getting in the way — whether it’s awareness, fear, or skills.Build confidence to engage across difference Discover how to stay grounded, curious, and connected — even when values, worldviews, or emotions run high.Reconnect with hope in a complex world This episode reframes today’s uncertainty not as collapse, but as fertile ground for meaningful change — starting with how we talk to one another.✨ Episode HighlightsWhy change today is fundamentally different — and why linear conversations no longer workHow our worldviews shape every interaction (often without us realising)The three types of “knots” that block progress in teams and relationshipsWhy curiosity is more powerful than persuasionHow to regulate yourself before entering high‑stakes conversationsThe link between psychological safety, leadership, and behavioural changeWhy hope is not naïve — but a leadership choiceHow better questions can completely transform everyday conversations🔓 The Three Knots That Block ChangeDiana explains that when conversations stall, there’s always a knot — and it’s usually one of these:Do‑Not‑See Knots Someone isn’t aware of a possibility, assumption, or perspective.Do‑Not‑Want Knots Fear, risk, or emotional resistance is holding someone back.Do‑Not‑Know Knots A genuine skills or capability gap is creating friction.Identifying the right knot helps focus the conversation where change can actually happen.💡 Practical TakeawaysEnter conversations with curiosity, not certaintyAsk open questions like “How does this make sense to you?”Don’t aim to win — aim to understandRegulate yourself before engaging othersStart small: connection is success📚 Recommended by Dianna📖 Maybe You Should Talk to Someone — Lori Gottlieb A warm, thoughtful exploration of different human worldviews through the lens of therapy — and a powerful way to build empathy and curiosity.🔗 Links MentionedWe Not Me podcast: 👉 https://www.squadify.netSquadify (podcast supporter): 👉 https://www.squadify.netBook recommendation: Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb (Available via major book retailers and libraries)International Coaching Federation (ICF): 👉 https://coachingfederation.org🎙 About the GuestDianna Anderson is a founding member of the International Coaching Federation and a global thought leader in coaching-based leadership and change. With over 30 years of experience, she helps leaders and organisations build shared language for navigating the human side of complexity, transformation, and collaboration.