Dana Caspersen Talks About Navigating Conflict with Curiosity and Clarity

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I dive into a topic that’s often overlooked when discussing productivity: conflict. But not just any conversation about conflict — this one’s with Dana Caspersen, conflict engagement specialist, TEDx speaker, and author of Conflict Is an Opportunity: 20 Fundamental Decisions for Navigating Difficult Times.Dana brings a rare combination of deep analytical insight and artistic fluency to the conversation, shaped by decades of work as both a mediator and an award-winning performing artist. We explore how the way we approach conflict — in work, relationships, and even with ourselves — is a direct reflection of how we manage time, attention, and energy.Six Discussion PointsWhy conflict isn’t a distraction from productivity — it’s a part of it.The four fundamental elements of conflict: emotion, needs, interests, and strategies.How assumptions derail conversations and curiosity keeps them alive.Replacing complaints and demands with thoughtful requests.The role of journaling in conflict clarity and attention calibration.Dana’s “20 Decisions” framework and how to work with — not against — your conflict habits.Three Connection PointsDana's websiteGet Conflict Is an Opportunity: Twenty Fundamental Decisions for Navigating Difficult TimesInterested in a related conversation? Then also listen to Episode 354: How To Decide with Annie DukeThis episode reminded me that conflict isn’t something we need to fear or avoid — it’s something we can navigate with purpose. Dana’s thoughtful framework is more than theory; it’s a guide you can return to anytime you feel stuck, misunderstood, or simply out of sync. If you want to turn tension into transformation, this conversation is a must-listen.

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