Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, and years of real-world experience, We Need to Talk provides a practical framework for navigating difficult conversations with confidence and empathy. Whether you're dealing with workplace conflicts, team dynamics, or challenging personal discussions, this book equips you with the tools to transform confrontational situations into opportunities for growth and understanding. No scripts, no shortcuts--just proven strategies that work. Who Should Read This Book
If you work with other humans, this book is for you. Whether you're a leader trying to build psychological safety on your team, an individual contributor navigating tricky workplace dynamics, or someone who wants to get better at having hard conversations, you'll find practical tools here. While the examples come primarily from technology and creative fields, the framework works across industries and various roles. You'll learn how to transform potentially confrontational situations into opportunities for growth and understanding, all while staying true to your authentic communication style. This isn't about becoming a conflict expert--it's about you feeling confident and capable when those inevitable tough conversations arise. Takeaways
Learn the core principles underlying difficult conversations.
Delve into how your brain processes conflict.
Study a multitude of techniques for maintaining psychological safety.
Learn to apply practical solutions to solving real-world problems.
Practice handling difficult conversations in your own authentic way.
Figure out specific techniques for staying centered, asking the right questions, and keeping your cool when caught off guard.
Learn how to navigate the tricky waters of conflict when you don't agree with your boss.
Study de-escalation techniques for a tense situation in order to guide conversations back to productive territory.
Say no and mean it!
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Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 19 mm
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ISBN-13
978-1-959029-11-3 (9781959029113)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Joshua Graves is the founder of Lost Horse Labs, a human-centered design company. He is an expert in human-centered design and communication. With over 15 years of experience studying how people interrelate, navigate challenges, and solve complex problems, Joshua has become a recognized expert in human-centered design and communication.
His extensive background includes building and leading design teams, conducting in-depth user research, and exploring the psychology behind interpersonal dynamics. In his work with high-profile organizations and his workshops, Joshua helps hundreds of professionals navigate complex workplace dynamics and build stronger, more effective relationships. Joshua's approach combines insights from psychology, neuroscience, empathy, curiosity, and years of practical experience facilitating difficult conversations. He lives in Joshua Tree, California.
