Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack
The Workplace Conflict Resolution Podcast! Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, featuring host Jeremy Pollack, Ph.D., is the podcast that aims to help you improve work relationships and manage difficult conflicts. Dr. Pollack discusses the science of workplace conflict and peace and presents short courses and quick tips with practical techniques to resolve conflicts in daily life.In his "Caller" episodes," Dr. Pollack takes callers from around the country who are dealing with stressful work relationships to provide coaching and support in solving the workplace issues that are burdening them. You will learn practical advice for managing the conflicts both up a...
The 60-Second Brain Hack to Regain Control During Conflict
Have you ever said something in the middle of an argument that you immediately wished you could take back?
In those moments, it's easy to think you simply lost your temper. But according to neuroscience, something else is happening: your nervous system has shifted into a threat response, temporarily taking your brain's higher reasoning offline.
In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack shares a simple, neuroscience-based technique that can help you regain composure in about 60 seconds, even in the middle of a difficult conversation. He also explains how to train a subtle physical cue that helps...
Has Psychological Safety Made Your Team More Fragile?
Psychological safety has become one of the most talked-about ideas in leadership, but what if we've misunderstood it?
In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack explores how the popular interpretation of psychological safety may actually be making teams less resilient by encouraging conflict avoidance rather than healthy disagreement. Drawing from neuroscience, organizational psychology, and conflict research, he explains why real psychological safety isn't about eliminating discomfort; it's about building relationships that can withstand it.
You'll learn:
Why psychological safety was never meant to mean "comfort at all costs"How avoiding conflict weakens your team's resilience...Business Partner Problems: When Trust Starts Breaking Down
When co-founders stop having honest conversations, the business often feels the impact long before anyone addresses the problem.
In this episode, we explore a common but rarely discussed leadership challenge: growing resentment between co-founders. What happens when one partner begins making major decisions without collaboration? How do you raise concerns without triggering defensiveness, blame, or a complete breakdown in the relationship? And how can leadership teams protect company culture when employees can sense tension at the top?
Using a realistic founder scenario, we unpack three critical questions:
âś… How to start a difficult conversation be...
How Great Leaders Handle Accountability
Why do so many leaders avoid accountability conversations, even when they know those conversations matter?Â
In this video, Dr. Jeremy Pollack breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in leadership communication: accountability itself is not what damages morale, trust, or relationships. More often, the real problem is how accountability conversations are handled.
 You’ll learn why these conversations feel uncomfortable, what causes them to go sideways, and how a more structured approach can transform accountability from something reactive and stressful into something clear, constructive, and trust-building.
In this training, we cover:
-Why lead...
Why Timing Matters in Conflict Management
Most leaders don’t struggle with conflict because they lack authority.
 They struggle because timing is unclear and the cost of getting it wrong builds quietly over time.
Step in too late, and conflict becomes layered, emotional, and harder to untangle.
 Step in too early, and you unintentionally take ownership away from your team.
I will break down the real leadership challenge behind conflict management:
 Why timing is the deciding factor in whether conflict escalates or resolves  What happens when leaders intervene too late vs. too early  When you should not step in and wh...Why Workplace Conflicts Escalate (And How to Stop It)
Why do workplace conflicts escalate so quickly, even when no one intends harm?
In this video, Dr. Jeremy Pollack explains why workplace conflicts escalate and how to stop it by unpacking two powerful psychological drivers: cognitive bias and emotional reactivity. What starts as a simple misunderstanding can quickly spiral when our brains assign meaning, trigger emotion, and react before we’ve fully understood the situation.
You’ll learn:
 • Why conflict escalation is driven more by interpretation than intention
 • The most common cognitive biases that distort workplace interactions
 • How emotional reactivity fuels defensiveness and miscommun...
Conflict Isn’t the Problem, Lack of Training Is
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, we challenge one of the most common misconceptions in the workplace: conflict itself isn’t the problem—lack of training is. Dr. Jeremy Pollack explains how recurring tension is rarely about difficult people, but instead reflects a gap in conflict competency.
Without a structured pathway for developing communication and de-escalation skills, everyday friction escalates into costly dysfunction. This episode reframes conflict as a skill-based issue and shows how the right training can transform workplace dynamics, strengthen trust, and improve organizational health.
Dr. Pollack introduces the Peaceful Leaders Acad...
QUICK TIPS: The Importance of Humility for Conflict Resolution
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, we explore one of the most overlooked yet essential qualities in conflict resolution—humility. Far from being a sign of weakness, humility is a strategic skill that opens the door to trust, collaboration, and lasting solutions. Dr. Pollack breaks down how humility depends on two key sub-traits—confidence and curiosity—and why both are necessary to make it an active, powerful force in peacebuilding.
Through hypothetical workplace examples, you’ll learn how humility can transform tense conversations into opportunities for understanding. Plus, Dr. Pollack shares four actionable tools you can use...
QUICK TIPS: How Not to Take Things Personally
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack explores one of the most common emotional traps we fall into—taking things personally. Whether it’s a curt email, a dismissive look, or tough feedback, it’s easy to assume it’s about us. But in most cases, it’s not. Dr. Pollack breaks down why we take things personally, how it affects our nervous system and workplace relationships, and five practical strategies to stop the spiral before it starts.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ Why we’re wired to take things personally
âś… How to re...
QUICK TIPS: 3 Primary Steps to Negotiation
Episode Summary:
Negotiation doesn’t have to feel like a battle. In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack walks you through three essential steps to negotiating effectively—without tension or confusion. Whether you're aiming for a raise, a promotion, or a clearer role at work, this framework will help you approach the conversation with confidence, clarity, and respect. Through a relatable scenario, Dr. Pollack shows how to define your ideal outcome, prepare with data, and co-create a plan that works for everyone involved.
What You’ll Learn:
 ✅ How to clarify your best-case scenario...
QUICK TIPS: Do's and Don'ts of Work Friendships
🗓️ Episode Summary:
 In today’s episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack explores how to build and maintain healthy boundaries between friendship and professionalism in the workplace. It’s easy—and often natural—to form close bonds with coworkers, but without clear boundaries, those relationships can lead to favoritism, burnout, or blurred responsibilities. Learn how to protect your wellbeing while fostering authentic connection.
🔑 What You’ll Learn:
Why workplace boundaries matter for mental health and team dynamicsFive core practices to navigate friendships at work
Hypothetical exampl...
COURSE: Fight the Urge to Be Right
This is a short course on the human psychological tendency to be right, and how that tendency fuels conflict. It’s designed to help you understand the cognitive underpinnings of this common human drive toward being right, how it influences workplace conflict, and how we might mitigate its negative effects at work.Â
For the full episode, including a downloadable eBook supplement, please join Dr. Pollack Peaceful Leaders Club at https://peacefulleadersacademy.com/club/. Club members get access to exclusive content, Dr. Pollack's online course library, and coaching groups with Dr. Pollack and his team.
For con...
QUICK TIPS: 4 Steps to Use Assertiveness and Set Boundaries at Work
Episode Summary
In this episode, Jeremy explores how to use assertiveness—not passivity or aggression—to set clear, respectful boundaries at work. You’ll learn practical tools to protect your time, reduce burnout, and improve communication with colleagues and supervisors.
What You’ll Learn
Why boundary-setting is key to professional well-being
The 4-step assertiveness framework
Word-for-word example statements to use at work
How to handle pushback with calm confidence
Why assertiveness builds stronger t...
QUICK TIPS: 7 Steps to Deal with Workplace Bullying
🔎 Episode Summary:
Being bullied at work—whether by a peer or supervisor—can be isolating, frustrating, and deeply stressful. In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack shares 7 practical, research-backed steps to help you recognize, respond to, and recover from workplace bullying. You’ll hear real-world examples, learn how to protect your mental health, and gain tools to take back your power—while staying professional and calm.
Whether you’re currently being bullied or supporting someone who is, this episode offers clear guidance for navigating a toxic workplace dynamic.
🛠️ Key Steps Covered:
Recognize th...QUICK TIPS: 8 Ways New Leaders Can Build Trust with Their Teams
🔍 Episode Summary
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Jeremy dives into a critical skill for every new manager and team lead: building trust. Trust isn't automatic—it’s something you intentionally earn. Without it, even the best plans falter. But with it? You can prevent conflict, foster resilience, and lead with influence instead of authority.
Whether you’re stepping into a team for the first time or trying to rebuild broken trust, this episode offers 8 actionable strategies you can implement immediately. Real-world examples from business, healthcare, tech, and nonprofit leadership illustrate each point and help...
COURSE: Using Conflict Style Assessment Tools at Work
This is a short course on the efficacy and use cases of Psychometric Assessment Tools for Conflict Management. It’s designed to help you understand how conflict style assessments work and how you might use them in an organizational setting to help employees and leaders better understand themselves and each other with regard to their conflict management styles.Â
For the full episode, including a downloadable eBook supplement, please join Dr. Pollack Peaceful Leaders Club at https://peacefulleadersacademy.com/club/. Club members get access to exclusive content, Dr. Pollack's online course library, and coaching groups with Dr. Pollack and...
CALLER: Stuck in a Toxic Job? How to Cope While Planning Your Exit
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Saima shares her struggle with a toxic work environment, where her boss seems to be undermining her due to office politics and possible budget cuts. Frustrated and feeling gaslit, Saima is looking for a way to cope while actively applying for new roles. Dr. Pollack provides strategies to help her stay grounded, set boundaries, and maintain self-worth as she plans her exit.
If you're dealing with a difficult work situation or looking for ways to stay resilient while planning your next career move, this episode offers practical advice. Don’t...
CALLER: How to Handle Job Insecurity at a Failing Company
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Marcus seeks guidance on dealing with job insecurity as his current company shows signs of potential failure. After switching jobs for career growth, Marcus now finds himself in a challenging situation where he wonders whether to stay or start looking for new opportunities. Dr. Pollack walks him through strategies for having open conversations with management, assessing his job stability, and exploring options without burning bridges.
If you’re experiencing job uncertainty or want advice on navigating potential layoffs, this episode provides practical strategies to help you make informed decisions. Do...
CALLER: How to Handle a Bully Coworker When Management Won't Step In
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Jenna shares her frustration with a bullying colleague whose domineering behavior disrupts team dynamics and goes unchecked by their boss. Despite repeated complaints, her boss continues to overlook this behavior, leaving Jenna and her team feeling unsupported. Dr. Pollack offers strategies for approaching this difficult situation, including taking a collective stance, documenting incidents, and escalating the issue through HR if necessary.
If you’re dealing with similar issues in your workplace or struggling to address toxic behavior, this episode provides actionable steps for advocating for a respectful and productive en...
CALLER: Being Asked to Meet Too Often? How to Set Boundaries with Your Boss
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Sam shares his frustration with a boss who insists on daily and weekly meetings that disrupt his sales performance. Despite being the company’s top salesperson, Sam feels micromanaged and unable to focus on what he does best. Dr. Pollack provides insights on how to approach the conversation with a collaborative mindset to reduce meeting frequency, set boundaries, and improve the relationship with his boss.
If you're dealing with overbearing management or need strategies to establish workplace boundaries, this episode offers practical solutions to help you reclaim your time. Do...
CALLER: How to Manage Scope Creep and Ask for More Pay
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, William shares his experience of being contracted to develop software for a school, only to face constant requests for additional features that weren't part of the original agreement. Struggling to balance client satisfaction and his own workload, William seeks advice on how to handle scope creep and how to ask for fair compensation for the extra work.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
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CALLER: Dealing with a Supervisor Who Won't Take Responsibility?
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Alexandra shares a frustrating workplace conflict where her supervisor consistently makes order mistakes but refuses to take accountability, leaving her to deal with the fallout. Dr. Pollack provides strategies to approach the situation as a team effort, align on processes, and frame the conversation in a way that fosters collaboration rather than conflict.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:Â
Peaceful Leaders AcademyConflict R...CALLER: How to Overcome Age Discrimination Hiring Challenges at 55+
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, we meet Daryl, who is struggling to find employment at 55 after a successful career in real estate finance. He suspects age discrimination may be affecting his job search and seeks advice on how to improve his chances of getting hired. Dr. Pollack offers actionable strategies, from optimizing resumes to leveraging LinkedIn and networking connections, to help Darrell break through the barriers.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More...
CALLER: Your Boss is Mean to You. Now What?
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, we hear from Crystal, who is facing a tough workplace challenge with her newly promoted supervisor. Crystal feels singled out by her boss, who seems to pick on her unfairly, and she's unsure if the behavior is racially motivated. Dr. Pollack offers actionable strategies to help Crystal rebuild trust, improve communication, and navigate the complexities of workplace bias.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:<...
CALLER: How to Handle a Blame-Shifting Manager
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Paris calls in to discuss a frustrating issue with his manager, who refuses to take responsibility and constantly blames her staff. Dr. Pollack offers practical advice on how to approach a difficult conversation with a supervisor, providing tips on maintaining professionalism and focusing on solutions. If you’re dealing with a boss who never owns up to their mistakes, this episode will give you the tools to navigate the situation with confidence.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr...
CALLER: How to Ask for a Raise Without Creating Conflict
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Mary calls in seeking advice on a tricky situation—she discovered that a newer co-worker is making significantly more money despite having less seniority. Unsure of how to approach her boss for a raise, Mary worries about damaging relationships or being denied. Dr. Pollack walks her through a practical, thoughtful approach to asking for a raise while maintaining professionalism and advocating for her worth. If you’ve ever struggled with salary negotiations, this episode is full of valuable advice on how to navigate it successfully.
Please visit our website to g...
CALLER: Married and Attracted to a Coworker? Navigating This Emotional Dilemma
In this thought-provoking episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, we tackle a sensitive issue many people may face: developing feelings for a coworker while being in a committed marriage. Our caller, Paul, finds himself in this challenging situation, struggling to balance his feelings and the love he has for his wife. Dr. Pollack offers compassionate and practical advice on how to manage these emotions, focus on strengthening the marriage, and avoid potential pitfalls.
If you've ever faced a similar emotional conflict or want to learn strategies to maintain strong, healthy relationships, this episode offers valuable insights. Don't...
CALLER: What to Do When Your Boss Doesn't Like You
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, we explore the challenges faced by Ray, a new employee at a steakhouse, who is struggling with a manager that seems to have a bias against her. Ray feels singled out, overlooked for training, and treated differently compared to her coworkers. Dr. Pollack provides insightful advice on how to approach this difficult situation, offering strategies to build trust, open communication, and potentially turn a strained relationship into a supportive one.
If you've ever felt unfairly treated by a manager or want to learn how to navigate complex workplace dynamics...
CALLER: The Boss Has Unfair Expectations: What to Do?
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, we dive into a challenging workplace conflict with ShaunPaul, a freelance filmmaker from Los Angeles. ShaunPaul finds himself caught in a tough situation where he's expected to take on multiple roles beyond what was originally agreed upon, and when things go wrong due to technical issues outside of his control, the blame is placed squarely on him. Dr. Pollack offers practical advice on how to navigate this conflict, preserve professional relationships, and protect one's reputation in the competitive world of freelance filmmaking.
If you're dealing with a similar workplace...
CALLER: How to Get Clear About Ambiguity at a New Job
In this episode, Dr. Pollack helps Jozlyn navigate uncertainties at her new hospitality job, including unclear pay rates and parking challenges. Tune in to learn effective ways to approach management and set boundaries.
See Dr. Pollack's online courses at: https://peacefulleadersacademy.com/courses/
For info on conflict intervention and training services, please visit our website: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:Â
Peaceful Leaders AcademyConflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills for Preventing, Managing, and Resolving ConflictFREE e-book: T...CALLER: Handling Difficult Customers: How to Get Your Boss to Set Boundaries
In this episode, Dr. Pollack assists Steve, a big box hardware store employee, in managing a persistently difficult customer. Discover practical steps for setting boundaries with problematic clients and how to get your boss to support you.
See Dr. Pollack's online courses at: https://peacefulleadersacademy.com/courses/
For info on conflict intervention and training services, please visit our website: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:Â
Peaceful Leaders AcademyConflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills for Preventing, Managing, a...CALLER: Navigating a Hostile Work Environment: Practical Advice
In this episode, Dr. Pollack guides Andrew through the complexities of dealing with a hostile work environment. Tune in to hear strategies for setting healthy boundaries, documenting incidents, and seeking help from HR.
See Dr. Pollack's online courses at: https://peacefulleadersacademy.com/courses/
For info on conflict intervention and training services, please visit our website: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:Â
Peaceful Leaders AcademyConflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills for Preventing, Managing, and Resolving ConflictFREE e-book: T...CALLER: How to Price Your Services Correctly to Avoid Conflict
In this episode, Dr. Pollack helps JD, a business owner, navigate the challenges of setting the right prices for services amidst competition, particularly when a competitor has already messed things up prior to starting his work. Listen as they discuss strategies to ensure fair pricing while maintaining high-quality standards.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:Â
Peaceful Leaders AcademyConflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills for Preventing, Managing, and Resolving ConflictFREE e-book: T...CALLER: How to Handle Feeling Underappreciated After Years of Work
In this episode, Dr. Pollack helps Alfred, a long-time employee who felt unappreciated at his job, work through his feelings and find closure. Listen in as they discuss strategies to cope with workplace dissatisfaction and the importance of self-validation.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
If you’re feeling underappreciated for the work you, it's always best to give feedback to your supervisor to let him/her know how you’re feeling. With that said, not everyone feels comfortable having those conversations. Certainly, many bosses don’t make that sort o...
CALLER: How to Address New Workplace Processes with Your Boss
In this episode, Dr. Pollack coaches a third-grade teacher struggling with a new math program that conflicts with traditional teaching methods. Listen as they discuss effective ways to communicate with school administrators about concerns and seek clarity on new processes.
See Dr. Pollack's online courses at: https://peacefulleadersacademy.com/courses/
For info on conflict intervention and training services, please visit our website: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:Â
Peaceful Leaders AcademyConflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills f...CALLER: How to Manage Email Communication & Aggressive Emails
In today's episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack helps Saskia, a seasoned remote administrative assistant, tackle the challenges of digital communication. Saskia has been struggling with unclear and sometimes hostile responses to her emails and messages. Dr. Pollack provides actionable tips on crafting concise communications, the importance of tone, and the benefits of supplementing written messages with phone calls for clarity. Tune in to learn how to enhance your digital correspondence and reduce misunderstandings in a world flooded with diverse communication methods.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host:...
CALLER: How to Handle Jealous Coworkers
In this enlightening episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack helps Gloria, a professional in the image industry, address feelings of jealousy and envy in the workplace. Gloria struggles with the negative energy from colleagues who seem to feign friendship due to her success. Dr. Pollack guides her through internal peace-building techniques to manage her responses and maintain authenticity in a competitive environment. Tune in to discover how you can foster inner peace and handle workplace jealousy with grace.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from...
CALLER: What if Your Boss is Recording Everything You Do?
In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack offers guidance to Kelly, a yoga instructor grappling with concerns about privacy in her workplace. The new owner of the yoga studio has installed video and audio surveillance, leaving Kelly and her colleagues feeling uneasy. Dr. Pollack discusses the implications of such surveillance on workplace morale and the freedom to communicate openly. He suggests strategies for addressing the issue with the studio owner, exploring both legal concerns and interpersonal dynamics. Tune in to learn how to approach sensitive workplace issues without escalating conflict.Â
Please visit our website to get more information: h...
CALLER: What to Do if Your Coworker is Constantly Criticizing Your Work
In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Pollack helps Melanie navigate a challenging situation with her podcast co-host, who has been consistently critical of her work. Despite Melanie's episodes receiving positive feedback and performing better statistically, her co-host's relentless negativity is making collaboration difficult. Dr. Pollack offers practical advice on how to manage this conflict, potentially considering legal options or developing a mental shield to deflect the negativity. Tune in to hear how Melanie can preserve her passion for podcasting amidst adversity.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host:...
CALLER: How to Deal with a Power Hungry Boss
In this episode of Peacebuilding with Dr. Pollack, Michelle explains how her new boss has taken over and immediately started using her power against her colleagues. Dr. Pollack gives Michelle some useful advice to humanize her new boss.
Please visit our website to get more information: https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/
Host: Dr. Jeremy Pollack from Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
More from Dr. Pollack:Â
Peaceful Leaders AcademyConflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills for Preventing, Managing, and Resolving ConflictFREE e-book: The Ultimate 12-Step Guide to Coworker Mediation: Free Ebook - Pollack P...