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It’s All Your Fault: High Conflict People

Business & Economics Podcasts

Hosted by Bill Eddy, LCSW, Esq. and Megan Hunter, MBA, It’s All Your Fault! High Conflict People explores the five types of people who can ruin your life—people with high conflict personalities and how they weave themselves into our lives in romance,...

Location:

United States

Description:

Hosted by Bill Eddy, LCSW, Esq. and Megan Hunter, MBA, It’s All Your Fault! High Conflict People explores the five types of people who can ruin your life—people with high conflict personalities and how they weave themselves into our lives in romance, at work, next door, at school, places of worship, and just about everywhere, causing chaos, exhaustion, and dread for everyone else. They are the most difficult of difficult people — some would say they’re toxic. Without them, tv shows, movies, and the news would be boring, but who wants to live that way in your own life! Have you ever wanted to know what drives them to act this way? In the It’s All Your Fault podcast, we’ll take you behind the scenes to understand what’s happening in the brain and illuminates why we pick HCPs as life partners, why we hire them, and how we can handle interactions and relationships with them. We break down everything you ever wanted to know about people with the 5 high conflict personality types: narcissistic, borderline, histrionic, antisocial/sociopath, and paranoid. And we’ll give you tips on how to spot them and how to deal with them.

Language:

English


Episodes
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When Addiction and Antisocial Behavior Collide in Custody

4/23/2026
High conflict custody cases are hard enough—but when one parent also demonstrates antisocial personality traits alongside addiction and a pattern of long-term deception, standard parenting plans fall short in ways that can leave a child at real risk. Antisocial personality disorder appears in family court more often than most people realize, and it requires a fundamentally different approach to court orders, parenting plans, and relapse planning. Bill Eddy, LCSW, JD, and Megan Hunter, MBA, co-founders of the High Conflict Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona, walk through how to recognize the pattern, what to actually say to a family court judge, and how to build a relapse plan directly into a custody agreement as a court order. They also cover monitoring options, supervised contact, and why no-contact orders should be extremely rare. This is part one of a two-part conversation. It’s All Your Fault is produced by TruStory FM. Full Show Notes & Resources Submit Questions | Full Show Notes | Bookstore | Website Watch this episode on YouTube Important Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:35:55

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Why Your Child Absorbs Your Emotions

4/16/2026
In high conflict divorce, children don’t just witness a parent’s distress—they absorb it, often without knowing where the feeling is coming from. Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter explain the brain science behind emotional contagion, why it can quietly build a child’s resistance to the healthier parent, and what that parent can do about it. From holding the schedule steady under emotional pressure, to teaching the four big skills for life, to naming emotions out loud to reduce their intensity—this episode gives parents practical tools they can use inside their own home starting today. Resources from this episode: BOOKS Don't Alienate the KidsBIFF for CoParent CommunicationCOURSES & CLASSES FOR PARENTS Conflict Influencer™ ClassNew Ways for Families Class + Coaching (for parents)Resistance, Refusal and the Child’s BrainARTICLE 7 Ways Children’s Brains Absorb Their Parent's’ Emotions in Divorce (And What You Can Do About It)TRAINING Professional Organizational Training: info@highconflictinstitute.com Submit Questions | Full Show Notes | Bookstore | Website Watch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:32:50

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Passive Aggressive Behavior: Is It High Conflict?

3/19/2026
Passive aggressive behavior is one of the most common—and most maddening—dynamics in high conflict situations. In this episode, Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter of the High Conflict Institute reframe passive aggression as what it really is: aggression with built-in deniability. They walk through how to recognize it at home and at work, how to set limits on behavior that’s designed to evade accountability, and how the “it’s not about me” mindset gives you the emotional footing to respond effectively. Whether you’re dealing with a co-worker who “forgets” every commitment or a relationship where nothing is ever directly addressed, this episode gives you a practical framework for protecting your peace. Resources from this episode: 5 Types of People Who Can Ruin Your LifeDating RadarConflict Influencer ClassManaging High-Conflict Behaviour in the Workplace TrainingSubmit Questions | Full Show Notes | Bookstore | Website Watch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:29:11

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Conflict Creators: Why Drama Gets Into Our Heads

3/12/2026
Why are so many people drawn to media figures who thrive on conflict, drama, and promises of secret revelations? Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter of the High Conflict Institute break down the neuroscience behind it—and it turns out your brain is working exactly as designed. The right hemisphere's drive for connection, belonging, and certainty makes all of us vulnerable to conflict-driven personalities, whether we realize it or not. This episode gives you the framework to understand why you get hooked, and practical tools to reclaim your own judgment. Resources from this episode: 5 Types of People Who Can Ruin Your LifeManaging High-Conflict Behavior in the Workplace — Training, April 23, 2026Training for Your OrganizationVisit High Conflict InstituteBrowse Books and ResourcesSubmit Questions | Full Show Notes | Bookstore | Website Watch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:31:21

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High Conflict Behavior at Work Part 2 with Michael Lomax

3/5/2026
Michael Lomax joins Megan Hunter to share practical tools leaders can use right away when high conflict behavior is derailing their team. They cover BIFF responses for written communication, how to redirect disruptive meeting participants, handling chronic complainers with EAR statements, and what it actually takes to build a conflict-competent culture. Plus—details on two upcoming trainings from the High Conflict Institute. Resources from this episode: New Ways for Work Coaches TrainingLeaders Training: Managing High Conflict Behavior at WorkBIFF at WorkMediating High Conflict DisputesIt's All Your Fault at WorkSubmit Questions | Full Show Notes | Bookstore | High Conflict Institute Watch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:39:57

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High Conflict Behavior at Work with Michael Lomax

2/26/2026
HCI senior trainer Michael Lomax joins Megan Hunter to unpack why high conflict behavior is escalating in today's workplaces—and what leaders can actually do about it. Drawing on twenty-five years in workplace dispute resolution, Michael explains why global stress and unresolved trauma are showing up at work, what happens in a leader's brain when they get emotionally hooked, and how to regulate yourself before you respond. You'll learn the "calm before think" strategy for de-escalating upset employees, how to handle a team-wide crisis triggered by one inflammatory email, and when a single conversation with a difficult senior leader simply isn't enough. Whether you're a leader, in HR, or anyone trying to navigate a workplace that feels harder than it used to—this one's for you. Resources from this episode: New Ways for Work Training for Workplace Coaches — March 3 & 5, 2026Leaders Training: Managing High Conflict Behavior at Work — April 23, 2026BIFF at WorkMediating High Conflict DisputesIt's All Your Fault at WorkSubmit Questions | Full Show Notes | Bookstore | High Conflict Institute Watch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:39:15

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Setting Boundaries in High Conflict Situations

2/19/2026
We answer five listener questions about setting boundaries with intrusive neighbors, hostile co-parents, difficult coworkers, and adult children who demonstrate high conflict behaviors. Learn when to use empathy versus firmness, how to document hostile messages for court, and strategies for protecting your emotional well-being in toxic situations. Resources from this episode: SLIC Solutions for ConflictBIFF for CoParent CommunicationThe Big Book on Borderline Personality DisorderNew Ways for Work® Coaches TrainingConflict Influencer ClassTraining for OrganizationsNational Domestic Violence InformationSubmit Questions | Full Show Notes | Bookstore | Website Watch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:33:46

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Can High Conflict Relationships Ever Become Truly Mutual? Setting Realistic Expectations and Boundaries

2/12/2026
Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter explore one of the most challenging questions faced by people in relationships with partners who demonstrate high conflict behaviors: Is it possible to develop a genuinely mutual and healthy relationship through proper communication techniques and boundary setting, or is managed stability the best achievable outcome? Understanding Relationship Dynamics with High Conflict Partners The episode examines the reality that while using specialized communication techniques can help reduce conflict and create more stability, these relationships often remain fundamentally one-sided. The hosts address the emotional toll of being the only partner actively working on relationship improvement and discuss realistic expectations for long-term outcomes. Research indicates that people who exhibit cluster B personality traits commonly demonstrate patterns of domineeringness, vindictiveness, and intrusiveness in relationships. Understanding these patterns helps inform decisions about relationship investment and maintenance. Questions Answered in This Episode Key Takeaways The episode provides valuable insights for anyone wrestling with difficult relationship decisions, offering both practical tools and a framework for evaluating relationship potential without promising unrealistic outcomes. Additional Resources New Resource for Those Considering Divorce/Separation/Relationship Termination Should I Stay Stay Married or Get Divorced? Expert Publications Stop Walking on Eggshells for Partners by Randi Kreger and Bill Eddy, LCSW, JDDating Radar: Why Your Brain Says Yes to "The One" Who Will Make Your Life Hell By Bill Eddy, LCSW, Esq., and Megan Hunter, MBASLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 Steps by Bill Eddy, LCSW, Esq. and Ekaterina Ricci, MDR, MLSPersonal Development New Ways for Couples Online Course + CoachingTraining Contact us for training for your organizationConnect With Us highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and Meganour online storeour websiteWatch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:35:48

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Beyond No-Contact: High Conflict Skills for Family Relationships

2/5/2026
The Evolution of Family Estrangement: Understanding Adult Children Cutting Ties Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter explore the growing phenomenon of adult children severing relationships with parents, examining research, societal shifts, and potential solutions. Drawing from their experience at the High Conflict Institute, they analyze Oprah's recent YouTube conversation with Dr. Joshua Coleman about family estrangement, offering professional insights into this complex dynamic affecting millions of families. Understanding Modern Family Estrangement Research indicates approximately one-third of Americans experience parent-child estrangement. The hosts examine how smaller family sizes, increased mobility, and social media influence these dynamics, while exploring the impact of shifting cultural values, mental health awareness, and changing approaches to conflict resolution. Questions Addressed in This Episode: Key Takeaways: The episode provides valuable insights for anyone navigating complex family relationships, offering understanding of this significant societal trend and practical approaches for addressing relationship challenges. Additional Resources Oprah VideoExpert Publications SLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsOur New World of Adult BulliesContact Us For High-Conflict Training Understanding & Managing High-Conflict TrainingProfessional & Personal Development Conflict Influencer® - for famliesHigh-Conflict Law Certification - for legal professionalsConnect With Us highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and Meganour online storeour websiteWatch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:30:51

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SLIC Solutions for Limits: How to Set Boundaries That Actually Work (with Ekaterina Ricci)

1/29/2026
Setting Effective Limits: A Conversation About SLIC Solutions for Conflict Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter welcome co-author Ekaterina Ricci to discuss their new book "SLIC Solutions for Conflict," exploring practical approaches to setting limits and consequences with individuals who demonstrate challenging behaviors. The episode introduces the "two and a half steps" approach: establishing clear boundaries, implementing consequences, and selectively using empathy, attention, and respect (EAR) statements. Traditional empathy-focused approaches may sometimes enable rather than resolve difficult situations, particularly with individuals who demonstrate manipulative behaviors. Bill Eddy outlines five crucial questions for establishing consequences: Is it proportional? Have positive consequences been considered? Is it safe? Are you prepared to enforce it? Do you need assistance? Questions we answer: How can empathy make conflict worse? Why is advance preparation important? How does social media impact younger generations' ability to set boundaries? When should you seek help imposing consequences? Whether managing professional relationships, navigating family dynamics, or maintaining personal boundaries, this episode provides practical tools for setting effective limits while maintaining respect and safety. Learn how preparation, practice, and proper timing can help you implement boundaries with confidence. Additional Resources Watch this episode on YouTube! Expert Publications SLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsHigh-Conflict Training Understanding & Managing High-Conflict TrainingPersonal Development Conflict Influencer Group ClassNew Ways for CouplesProfessional Development Family Law Consultation Group with Bill EddyConnect With Us highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and Meganour online storeour websiteImportant Notice Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:48:12

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Self-Compassion and DBT: How New Treatment Approaches Transform BPD Recovery with Amanda Smith

1/22/2026
In this episode of It's All Your Fault, host Megan Hunter interviews Amanda Smith, LCSW, about her groundbreaking new book on self-compassion and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills for people who have borderline personality disorder traits. The discussion explores how incorporating self-compassion into treatment can enhance recovery and improve outcomes. Understanding Self-Compassion in BPD Treatment The conversation delves into how self-compassion serves as a vital but often overlooked component in treating borderline personality disorder traits. Amanda Smith draws on 19 years of clinical experience to explain why traditional confrontational approaches often backfire, while self-compassion can help reduce self-destructive behaviors and improve emotional regulation. Research shows that increased self-compassion correlates with better mental health outcomes, healthier relationships, and reduced anxiety and depression. This episode examines how these findings specifically apply to people working to manage borderline personality disorder traits. Questions We Answer in This Episode Key Takeaways The episode provides hope and practical guidance for anyone impacted by borderline personality disorder traits, while highlighting the importance of combining clinical skill development with self-compassion practices. Listeners will gain insights into both professional and personal approaches to supporting recovery. Additional Resources Watch this episode on YouTube! Expert Publications by Amanda L. Smith The Self-Compassion Workbook for BPDThe Dialectical Behavior Therapy Wellness Planner: 365 Days of Healthy Living for Your Body, Mind, and SpiritThe Borderline Personality Disorder Wellness Planner for Families: 52 Weeks of Hope, Inspiration, and Mindful Ideas for Greater Peace and HappinessExpert Publications SLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsProfessional & Personal Development Amanda Smith’s Family DBT courseConflict Influencer® - for co-parentsConflict Influencer® - for famliesHigh-Conflict Law Certification - for legal professionalsConnect With Us highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and Meganour online storeour websiteImportant Notice Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:45:34

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Worth Repeating: Protecting Elderly Loved Ones from High Conflict Manipulation

1/15/2026
In this classic episode from the archives, Bill and Megan examine the growing challenges faced by elderly populations dealing with individuals who demonstrate high conflict behaviors. As global demographics shift toward an aging population, understanding how to protect vulnerable seniors becomes increasingly critical. The hosts explore how individuals who exhibit manipulative personality traits may target elderly people through isolation, financial exploitation, and emotional manipulation. They discuss why traditional support systems may miss these subtle forms of control, and how societal changes have created new vulnerabilities. Key Vulnerabilities Addressed: Essential Protection Strategies: Drawing from extensive research and case examples, Bill and Megan provide practical guidance for recognizing warning signs and taking appropriate action. They emphasize the importance of balancing respect for autonomy with necessary protective measures. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone concerned about elderly loved ones or planning for their own future security. The discussion highlights how proper awareness and early intervention can help protect our most vulnerable community members. Additional Resources Books & Expert Publications: Our New World of Adult Bullies5 Types of People Who Can Ruin Your LifeSLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsArticles & Resources: Protecting the Elderly in Our New World of Adult BulliesTraining & Professional Development: Custom Training for OrganizationsNew Ways Training ProgramsConflict Influencer ClassConnect With Us: High Conflict InstituteSubmit questions for Bill and Meganonline storeImportant Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:38:46

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Worth Repeating: Setting Limits Without Public Exposure to Manage Difficult Behavior

1/8/2026
Exposure and Public Shaming as Conflict Management Tools: A Critical Analysis In this back episode from the High Conflict Institute podcast, Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter tackle a challenging question that many face when dealing with difficult workplace situations: Is exposing someone's problematic behavior an effective strategy for creating change? While the impulse to "name and shame" may feel justified, especially when facing reputation damage or distortion campaigns, the hosts explore why this approach often backfires with high conflict personalities. When dealing with individuals who demonstrate high conflict behavior patterns, the threat of exposure frequently escalates rather than resolves situations. The hosts examine how cluster B personality traits like being domineering, vindictive and intrusive can make public confrontation particularly counterproductive. Key Questions Addressed: Core Strategic Insights: Through examining both legal precedents and business case studies, the hosts demonstrate why investing in skill development and structured interventions often proves more valuable than reactive exposure strategies. The episode provides concrete examples of more effective approaches, from healthcare settings to corporate environments. Drawing on Harvard research and real-world examples like the Harvey Weinstein case, Bill and Megan illustrate the complex factors organizations must weigh when deciding how to address problematic behavior. They emphasize that while public exposure may occasionally be necessary, it should typically be a last resort after other interventions have been attempted. Additional Resources Books: It's All Your Fault at Work: Managing Narcissists and Other High-Conflict People5 Types of People Who Can Ruin Your LifeBIFF at Work: Your Guide to Difficult Workplace CommunicationSLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsArticles: Fire or Keep High-Conflict Employees?Should Employees with High-Conflict Behaviors Be Given a Chance to Change?Professional Development: New Ways Training ProgramsConflict Influencer ClassCustom Training for OrganizationsHigh Conflict Institute Consultation ServicesConnect With Us: High Conflict InstituteSubmit questions for Bill and Meganonline storeour websiteImportant Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:25:41

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Worth Repeating: Skills Over Discipline to Transform Workplace Conflict with Cherolyn Knapp

12/18/2025
Managing High Conflict in Today's Workplace In this episode from the High Conflict Institute archives, Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter welcome Cherolyn Knapp, a lawyer, mediator, and workplace investigator who brings fresh perspectives on handling workplace conflict. While the discussion captures workplace dynamics during an earlier phase of post-pandemic adjustment, the insights on conflict management remain remarkably relevant for today's organizations. Understanding Workplace Conflict Patterns The discussion explores how traditional workplace conflict resolution methods often fall short with certain behavioral patterns. Cherolyn shares insights from her extensive experience, noting that while standard approaches work for 80-90% of situations, some cases require specialized skills and understanding. Though recorded closer to the initial workplace disruptions of the pandemic, the conversation highlights enduring challenges in managing high conflict situations that continue to resonate. Questions We Answer in This Episode: Key Takeaways: The New Ways for Work method offers a structured approach that helps organizations identify when standard interventions aren't working and provides alternative strategies. This skills-based program gives both employees and managers practical tools they can implement immediately, proving just as valuable today as when this episode first aired. The episode provides valuable insights for HR professionals, workplace coaches, and leaders seeking to create healthier workplace environments. While some conflict is inevitable in any organization, understanding these patterns and having the right tools can transform seemingly impossible situations into manageable ones. Additional Resources: Books & Training: New Ways for Work® Coaching ManualNew Ways for Work® WorkbookIt's All Your Fault at Work: Managing Narcissists and Other High Conflict PeopleBIFF at Work: Your Guide to Difficult Workplace CommunicationSLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsProfessional Development: New Ways Training RegistrationCustom Training for OrganizationsNew Ways ProgramsConflict Influencer CertificationArticles & Resources: New Ways for Work: A New Coaching MethodWhy Can't They Get It? What to do when coworkers and employees have no idea how they behaveConnect With Us: Visit our websiteSubmit questions for Bill and MeganBrowse our complete collectionFind all episode notesFacebookTwitterLinkedInNote: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:35:29

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Worth Repeating: Finding Your Path Forward with High Conflict Parents

12/11/2025
Young Adults Navigating Life with High Conflict Parents In this classic episode from the archives, Bill and Megan explore why many young adults struggle to launch successfully into independent life, particularly those raised by parents who demonstrate high conflict behaviors. They examine how today's interconnected world, while offering unprecedented opportunities, can also amplify feelings of inadequacy and isolation for young people trying to find their path. The hosts discuss how growing up with a parent who exhibits self-focused personality traits can leave young adults feeling responsible for managing their parent's emotions instead of developing their own identity. This dynamic, combined with intense cultural pressures and weakened community connections, creates unique challenges for today's emerging adults. Key Challenges Addressed: Essential Solutions Explored: Drawing from their extensive experience, Bill and Megan offer practical strategies for young adults to develop stronger boundaries with high conflict parents while building their own sense of identity and direction. They emphasize the importance of finding healthy connections and support systems outside the family dynamic. This episode provides valuable insights for young adults working to establish independence, as well as parents, mentors and professionals supporting them through this critical transition period. The discussion highlights how proper support and understanding can help transform struggle into growth. Additional Resources Books & Publications: New Ways for Life™ Instructor's GuideNew Ways for Life™ Youth JournalSLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsTraining & Professional Development: Live Lab™ (1:1 coaching for high conflict communication)Individual Consultation ServicesNew Ways for Life TrainingCustom Training for OrganizationsConflict Influencer ClassArticles & Resources: Kids and Self-EsteemAdolescent Mental Health and New Ways for Life SkillsConnect With Us: High Conflict InstituteSubmit questions for Bill and Meganonline storeImportant Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:23:23

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Worth Repeating: Turning Down High Conflict at Work with Cherolyn Knapp

12/4/2025
In this classic episode from the archives, special guest Cherolyn Knapp joins Bill and Megan to tackle listener questions about managing challenging workplace dynamics. They explore how high conflict behavior manifests in professional settings - from overt confrontations to more subtle forms of workplace disruption. The hosts examine why traditional disciplinary approaches often backfire, discussing instead how skills-based interventions can transform difficult workplace relationships. They emphasize the importance of recognizing that problematic behavior doesn't always present as obvious conflict. Key Workplace Challenges Addressed: Essential Skills Explored: Drawing from their extensive experience, the hosts provide practical guidance for both supervisors and employees facing challenging workplace dynamics. They emphasize the importance of developing specific communication skills rather than relying on confrontational approaches. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating difficult workplace relationships, whether as a manager protecting their team or an individual seeking to improve a challenging situation. The discussion highlights how proper training and support can transform seemingly intractable workplace conflicts. Additional Resources Books & Expert Publications: BIFF at Work: Your Guide to Difficult Workplace CommunicationsIt's All Your Fault at Work! Managing Narcissists and Other High-Conflict PeopleOur New World of Adult BulliesSLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsTraining & Professional Development: New Ways Training ProgramsIndividual Workplace CoachingCustom Training for OrganizationsConflict Influencer ClassConnect With Us: High Conflict InstituteSubmit questions for Bill and Meganonline storeour websiteImportant Notice: Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:41:04

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Worth Repeating: High-Conflict Holiday Guide

11/27/2025
Holiday Peace: Managing High Conflict Personalities During Celebrations Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter return to explore practical strategies for handling challenging personalities during holiday gatherings. As many of our longtime listeners enjoy revisiting this timeless discussion during our winter programming, we're pleased to reshare these essential tools for maintaining peace while preserving relationships during family events. Understanding high conflict personalities requires both preparation and practice. Through real-world examples and expert insights, this conversation illuminates the complex dynamics that often emerge during holiday celebrations. Whether managing others' behaviors or our own stress responses, the techniques shared here have proven invaluable for countless families. Key Strategies: What You'll Learn: The intersection of family traditions and modern challenges requires a nuanced approach. Bill and Megan discuss how to honor meaningful connections while establishing new patterns that better serve everyone involved. Their practical guidance helps listeners navigate complex family dynamics without sacrificing their own wellbeing. Our conversations focus on behavioral patterns rather than specific diagnoses. While these strategies can be helpful for many situations, please consult qualified professionals in your area for specific legal or mental health guidance. Additional Resources: BOOKS Calming Upset People with EARBIFFBIFF for CoParent CommunicationThe Courage to FeelThe High-Conflict Co-Parenting Survival GuideARTICLES EAR Statements for the HolidaysHandling High Conflict Situations During the HolidaysHow to Survive the Holidays with an Anti-Social RelativeEXPERT PUBLICATIONS New Book: SLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsPROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Custom Training & SpeakingNew Ways Training ProgramsConflict Influencer ClassCONNECT WITH US High Conflict InstituteSubmit Questions for the PodcastBrowse Our Complete Book CollectionView All Episode NotesOur discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:29:36

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Setting Limits That Stick: The SLIC Method for Effective Boundaries

11/13/2025
Setting Limits That Stick: The SLIC Approach to Conflict Resolution Bill Eddy and Megan Hunter discuss SLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits and Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 Steps, co-authored by Bill Eddy and Ekaterina Ricci. This episode explores how their practical SLIC method (Setting Limits, Imposing Consequences) helps parents establish and maintain effective boundaries with children of all ages. Understanding the SLIC Method The SLIC approach combines three key elements: setting clear limits, imposing appropriate consequences, and using strategic empathy statements. This 2 1/2 step method provides a structured framework for parents facing boundary-testing behaviors, whether dealing with toddlers learning self-control or teenagers pushing social limits. Bill's extensive background in child development, education, and family therapy informs practical applications across various parenting scenarios. Questions Answered in This Episode Key Takeaways This episode equips parents, teachers, and caregivers with practical tools from the SLIC method to establish consistent, effective boundaries while maintaining strong relationships with children. Listeners learn how to implement this structured approach across different ages and challenging situations. Additional Resources Expert Publications SLIC Solutions for Conflict: Setting Limits & Imposing Consequences in 2 1/2 StepsProfessional Development Invite us to speak at your organizationNew Ways Training (work, mediation, divorce)Conflict Influencer Class (for personal life)Connect With Us highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and Meganour online storeour websiteWatch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:34:27

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Choosing Safe Partners: Understanding Red Flags in Dating with Dr. David Wexler

11/6/2025
Identifying Red Flags: Making Safer Relationship Choices Dr. David Wexler joins Bill Eddy to discuss his new book "Choose Him Wisely: How to Identify a Safe Partner," co-authored with Dr. Donald Meichenbaum. Drawing from over 40 years of clinical experience working with relationship dynamics and domestic violence, Dr. Wexler shares crucial insights about recognizing concerning patterns early in relationships. Understanding Warning Signs The conversation explores three key categories of warning signs: observed behaviors, historical factors, and gut feelings. Dr. Wexler explains how early relationship behaviors like "love bombing," expressions of contempt, and patterns of entitlement can indicate potential future challenges. The discussion examines why psychological abuse often creates deeper lasting impacts than physical abuse through its systematic erosion of self-esteem and autonomy. Questions Answered in This Episode Key Takeaways This episode provides valuable tools for anyone navigating dating and relationships, offering practical guidance for evaluating potential partners while maintaining healthy boundaries. The discussion emphasizes empowerment through awareness rather than victim-blaming, acknowledging that while warning signs exist, many relationships can provide safe, healthy connections. Additional Resources Dr. Wexler Choose Him WiselyRelationship Training InstituteOnline Course for Family Law: Conversations About Domestic Violence in Family Law with 16 ExpertsProfessional Development Invite us to speak at your organizationNew Ways Training (work, mediation, divorce)Conflict Influencer Class (for personal life)Connect With Us highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and Meganour online storeour websiteWatch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:45:58

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Healthcare Conflict Solutions: Managing Hospital Tensions in High-Stress Environments with Dr. Jeff Stuart

10/30/2025
Healthcare Conflict Management: Insights from the Pandemic and Beyond In this episode of "It's All Your Fault," host Megan Hunter welcomes Dr. Jeff Stuart, an experienced physician executive and co-founder of RxSolve Conflict, to discuss conflict management in healthcare settings. Their conversation explores how the pandemic transformed healthcare conflicts and what lessons can help improve communication and patient care. Understanding Healthcare Conflict Dynamics Dr. Stuart shares insights from his three decades of medical practice and leadership, including his experience as Chief Medical Officer during the pandemic. He describes how hospitals function as inherently high-pressure environments where different departments operate as distinct "battlefields," each with their own unique pressures and challenges. The discussion reveals how operational pressures, resource constraints, and evolving power dynamics contribute to healthcare conflicts. Dr. Stuart explains how traditional hierarchical structures are shifting toward team-based approaches, creating new communication challenges that require innovative solutions. Questions We Answer in This Episode Key Takeaways This episode provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, administrators, and anyone interested in understanding how complex organizations can better manage conflict. The discussion offers practical approaches while acknowledging the unique challenges faced by those working in high-stress medical environments. Additional Resource Dr. Jeff Stuart’s website: www.rxsolveconflict.com Professional Development Leaders High-Conflict Training: New Ways for WorkConflict Influencer Group ClassConnect With Us highconflictinstitute.comSubmit questions for Bill and Meganour online storeour websiteWatch this episode on YouTube! Important Notice Our discussions focus on behavioral patterns rather than diagnoses. For specific legal or therapeutic guidance, please consult qualified professionals in your area.

Duration:00:50:06