About This Videobr br The difference between a toxic conversation and a productive one? Leadership preparation.br br Too many leaders avoid necessary workplace discussions because they fear the conversation will go sideways—leading to conflict, frustration, or disengagement.br br In this episode, Mason Duchatschek sits down with Marlene Chism, author of From Conflict to Courage, to discuss how structured preparation and clear communication can make even the most difficult conversations productive. Learn how leaders can take control, set the right tone, and transform workplace challenges into opportunities for growth and clarity.br br Key Takeawaysbr br ✅ Toxic conversations happen when leaders are unprepared – Structure and clarity are essential.br ✅ Avoiding difficult discussions weakens leadership – Fear of conflict leads to poor workplace culture.br ✅ Preparation is the key to control – Thoughtful planning allows leaders to navigate tough topics effectively.br ✅ Clarity prevents miscommunication – Clearly defining the issue leads to more productive outcomes.br br Listen to the Full Conversationbr br 🎙 Podcast Episode:br 👉 br 📺 Full Video on YouTube:br 👉 br Learn More with Workforce Alchemybr br If you're looking for proven strategies, tools, and secrets to improve leadership effectiveness, conflict resolution, and workplace culture, take the Workforce Alchemy Challenge for free.br br 👉 Apply here: br About This Channelbr br Subscribe now & discover the world of Workforce Alchemy. Visit our website & take the challenge! Mason Duchatschek is an Amazon.com #1 bestselling author of numerous books, and his ideas have been featured in Selling Power, Entrepreneur, and the New York Times.br br There is a way to make every employee more valuable. People shouldn't dread coming to work. Companies shouldn't lose great employees or settle for good when great is possible.br br If you want to hire the best and avoid the rest, subscribe. If you want to solve problems before they occur, subscribe. If you want to get better work accomplished faster without adding staff, subscribe and be sure to share helpful ideas with others.