Conflict Stories Podcast

TV personality, author + passionate advocate for emotional intelligence and authentic human connection, Lucinda Light became a global favourite on Married at First Sight Australia, bringing warmth, honesty + compassion to the “wild west” of reality TV. A recovering people pleaser + self-described straight shooter, Lucinda traces her relationship with conflict from her parents’ shock divorce when she was 12 through sibling strain, share-house tensions + relationship breakdowns. Lucinda shares the tools behind her ongoing “journey of refinement” – from active listening + not taking things personally to responding rather than reacting, holding boundaries with compassion + navigating online trolls without losing herself. For Lucinda, conflict has become a teacher – an invitation to reflect, repair, forgive + grow. And, of course, we ask the big question: Has Lucinda found love? Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Global mediator, people-centred leader and conflict innovator Laura May PhD shares her international journey through mediation, leadership and organisational change. From growing up in Tasmania to living and working across Australia, the UK, Russia, Belgium and now Spain, Laura brings a truly global perspective to resolving conflict and helping organisations put people first. Laura reflects on how her conflict resolution journey transformed her from a self-described conflict “shark” into a collaborative “owl” - and what blame, curiosity and even tango dancing can teach us about building healthier relationships. Blending deep expertise with warmth, humour Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Reuters Bureau Chief, Author and Workplace Mental Health Advocate Dean Yates spent 26 years reporting from the front lines of history - including the Bali bombings, Boxing Day tsunami and Iraq War. After experiencing PTSD and moral injury following the deaths of Reuters staff in Iraq, Dean transformed his personal struggles into advocacy, leadership and systemic workplace mental health reform. His powerful story has been featured on ABC’s Australian Story. Dean shares his journey through trauma, recovery and organisational betrayal - exploring the difference between PTSD and moral injury, the unexpected care and connection he found during his admissions to Ward 17 and the importance of psychologically safe workplaces. He also reflects on spirituality, forgiveness and rebuilding life after trauma. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US-based mediator, author and mental health advocate Dan Berstein brings a powerful perspective shaped by his lived experience with bipolar disorder and his work in dispute resolution. Founder of MH Mediate and co-founder of the Dispute Resolution in Mental Health Initiative at the CUNY Dispute Resolution Center, Dan has spent more than a decade helping courts, legal practitioners and organisations better navigate mental health and conflict. Through personal stories - including family estrangement and professional challenges - Dan shines a light on stigma, resilience and the courage it takes to find voice + help others do the same. Special Note: We recorded this episode in June 2025. Dan asked to delay the release because he was struggling with next steps related to the mental illness stigma conflicts discussed in the episode. Now, he has launched DisabilityRadar.com to help anyone who might be targeted by the exclusionary mental illness "radars" we discussed in this episode. He also suggested we air the podcast now, nine months after it was recorded. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning journalist, best-selling author and change-maker Tracey Spicer shares her powerful journey through conflict in the media, advocacy and public life. From navigating discrimination in Australia’s 1980s and 1990s newsrooms to leading the nation’s #MeToo movement, Tracey shares the personal cost of speaking truth to power. She opens up about carrying the weight of thousands of victim-survivor disclosures, the online abuse that followed, the impact of long COVID on her wellbeing, and her ongoing concern with bias-built AI. A trailblazer for social change, Tracey reflects on speaking up in conflict, and the self-care required to stay the course. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meditation teacher, filmmaker + university leader Mayur Katariya has lived a life shaped by cultural crossroads and inner evolution. Growing up in Gujarat, conflict largely lay beneath the surface of unspoken expectations; coming to Australia revealed how a more forthright communication style can bring what’s hidden into the light. Mayur’s award-winning film Ek Aasha , amplifying the journeys of transgender communities in India, reflects his belief in storytelling as a force for justice, empathy + visibility. As a long-time meditation practitioner and teacher grounded in non-dual philosophy, Mayur brings a calm, insightful approach to conflict - exploring how awareness, compassion and presence can transform how we understand ourselves and each other. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning speaker, author, and sales + mindset master - Ian Stephens’ story is one of grit, reinvention + deep personal growth. Born “cold, wet, bald and hungry… and then things got worse,” Ian’s journey took him from a tough family upbringing to leading a $200 million sales team by age 28 - and losing it all a year later. Rebuilding himself from the inside out, Ian unlocked the power of mindset + purpose, becoming one of Australia’s most sought-after speakers and trainers in sales + leadership development. Ian unpacks how early family conflict, two marriage breakups, and a search for self-understanding led him to his life’s work: helping others transform pressure into performance. Ian reveals how emotional intelligence, blended with behavioural strategies, can transform communication and strengthen relationships. A raw, wise + unexpectedly funny exploration of the inner game behind outer success. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Narrative therapist and mediator Debbie Dunn shares her remarkable journey from being dishonourably discharged from the British Women’s Air Force for her same-sex relationship to becoming a pioneering voice in narrative mediation and workplace bullying support. Debbie delves into her personal story of resilience, the significance of narrative techniques in mediation and the transformative power of sharing one's story to move from shame to strength. Debbie's story is a testament to how sharing our narratives - including those shaped through struggle - can become an act of courage, connection + change. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with Mandy Nolan, a comedian, author, speaker, and politician. Hosted by Sam Hardy and Scott Dutton, the discussion explores Mandy’s tumultuous upbringing marked by domestic violence, the role of humor in navigating life's challenges, and her experiences in stand-up comedy and politics. Mandy discusses her ability to manage conflict, including interactions with audiences and political opponents, emphasizing the importance of resilience, compassion, and listening. The episode also touches on her unconventional family dynamics and her efforts to maintain constructive relationships with her ex-partners for the sake of their children. Through various anecdotes, Mandy illustrates how humor, empathy, and open-mindedness can transform conflict into opportunities for growth. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

CEO, Advocate and Change-Maker Stacey Ross is a visionary and dynamic leader transforming how communities respond to domestic, family and sexual violence. As CEO of The Centre for Women & Co. and Men & Co. Services, she leads with purpose - delivering vital support across SE QLD and driving social justice reform nationwide. Stacey shares her leadership approach - turning conflict into growth, embedding values into daily practice and prioritising self-care + staff empowerment as essential to culture. She reveals why self-awareness and assuming good intent are leadership superpowers, and how they sustain high-performance teams in high-pressure, purpose-driven environments. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clinical psychologist, former police negotiator and counter-terrorism expert Kieran Plasto shares powerful insights from a career spanning armed sieges to executive tensions. With experience across law enforcement and HR, he brings a rare depth of perspective to high-stakes conflict - and a deeply human approach to resolving it. Kieran unpacks his philosophy of conflict resolution, grounded in dignity, kindness and the often-overlooked power of listening. He shares a gripping story of crisis intervention with a young offender, and reflects on why humility and curiosity are superpowers in navigating conflict across cultures, contexts and careers. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of trauma, discrimination, captivity and sexual assault which some listeners may find distressing. In this episode of the Conflict Stories podcast, Sam and Scott speak with Rabia Siddique, an international humanitarian lawyer and former senior British Army officer. Rabia recounts her journey from a challenging multicultural childhood, through traumatic experiences, including being a hostage in Iraq, to her legal battle against institutional discrimination. She shares insights on personal resilience, the importance of justice, and the power of fighting for equality. Despite facing numerous adversities, Rabia's story is one of immense courage and unwavering commitment to human rights. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Conflict Stories, Sam Hardy and Scott Dutton are joined by Tom Panos, a renowned real estate coach and auctioneer. Tom shares his experiences growing up in a conflict-averse Greek family, the challenges of managing family conflicts with his children, and the high-stakes emotional conflicts that arise during property auctions. He discusses the importance of pausing, being curious, and assuming that everyone is doing their best in conflict situations. Panos also touches on his personal battles with cancer and how they have influenced his perspective on life and conflict resolution. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mediator and social justice advocate Bruce Argyle reflects on a lifetime of resolving conflict - from youth work and parent-teen mediations to navigating high-stakes boardroom disputes and multi-party conflicts in a hospital ward. He shares the lessons of over 700 mediations, a vineyard sabotage, a Highlander sword siege, and the art of actually being heard. With humour, humility, and heart, Bruce explores what makes mediation work—and why respect is at the centre of it all. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalist and author Mimi Kwa opens up about her tumultuous family history, intergenerational trauma, and journey to healing. She recounts her father’s lawsuit against her, the deep inner work it sparked, and the role of mindfulness and acceptance in moving forward. Mimi also shares insights from her career, including a memorable clash with Russell Crowe, exploring how conflict - both personal + professional - can shape us. Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet your hosts, Sam Hardy + Scott Dutton – two dynamic voices in the world of conflict resolution. In this premiere episode, Sam - a ‘pracademic’ – unpacks how conflict can entrap or empower. While Scott - the ‘Conflict Whisperer’ - brings years of wisdom from the frontlines of mediation + conflict training. Together, they share the inspiration behind Conflict Stories, drawing on professional + personal experiences. They dive into the emotional landscape of conflict, the power of mindfulness + self-reflection, and how cultural perspectives shape conflict. Get ready for real talk, practical tools and expert insights to help you navigate conflict with clarity + confidence! Keep track of new stories at https://conflictstories.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.