EFR 812: Mastering Respectful Disagreements to Go From Conflict to Collaboration with Justin Jones-Fosu

Ever Forward Radio with Chase Chewning

This episode is brought to you by Strong Coffee Company, Legacy, and LMNT.

Justin Jones-Fosu is here to explore the art of respectfully disagreeing and maintaining our humanity amidst ideological differences. Justin emphasizes the importance of valuing and dignifying individuals regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. Prepare to discover strategies for fostering healthy collaboration over unhealthy competition and the significance of heart-driven work in difficult conversations. Justin shares his five pillars of respectful disagreement, offering practical examples and exercises to apply in various settings, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking to navigate our divided world with grace and respect. We also tackle the concept of "disrespectful agreement," where individuals agree with others to avoid conflict, often leading to internal resentment and missed opportunities for genuine connection. Through real-life examples, such as a wife agreeing to preserve her husband's self-esteem or an employee aiming for a promotion, we highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing these tendencies. Practical advice is also provided on how to ensure every interaction leaves all parties feeling valued, and a personal story about managing contentious conversations underscores the importance of empathy and mutual respect in communication. Additionally, we delve into the transformative power of collaboration over competition, sharing an engaging exercise that highlights the benefits of supportive environments. Reflecting on a late-night ride along with police officers, we discuss the multifaceted role they play and the importance of cultivating respectful relationships despite challenges. Finally, we explore the power of respectful interactions in planting seeds of change and the value of being present in the moment. Listen in as we bring you insights from Justin's latest book, "I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World," and learn how to move "Ever Forward" with purpose and understanding. Follow Justin @iworkmeaningful Follow Chase @chase_chewning ----- In this episode we discuss... (00:00) Passionately Pursuing Humanity (03:22) What Does It Mean to Respectfully Disagree? (13:24) Honest Reasons for Disrespectfully Agreeing (26:43) Collaborative Stress Ball Challenge (34:19) Importance of Valuing Contributions in Meetings (37:10) A Mother's Lesson (45:53) Respectful Exploration of Beliefs (50:08) Creating Space for Redemption (01:03:03) How to Create a Shift in Perspective (01:07:20) Ever Forward ----- Episode resources:

• Save 15% with code CHASE on organic coffee and lattes packed with collagen, MCTs, adaptogens and nootropics from Strong Coffee Company
• Save $20 on the at-home male fertility test kit with code EVERFORWARD from Legacy
• Get a FREE 8-count variety sample pack of Recharge electrolyte drink mix with any drink mix purchase from LMNT
• Learn more about Justin at WorkMeaningful.com