117 You can change a conflict pattern with a (surprise) script Artwork

Conflict Owner's Manual

we show how your conflict competencies help you do conflict better.

Our logo is a dandelion because conflict is like a weed you don't want in the garden. Since it's there you want to know how to manage it, keep it from spreading, and feel good about how you dealt with it.

Dr. Deborah Sword is a specialist in conflict analysis and management. Tyson Bankert is a community facilitator and artist. We have decades of experience and training in helping people expand their conflict competencies.

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Conflict Owner's Manual

117 You can change a conflict pattern with a (surprise) script

January 04, 2026 • Dr. Deborah Sword, with co-host Tyson Bankert • Season 5 • Episode 117

Conflicts in relationships tend to follow patterns, and conflict patterns get stuck in scripts that are hard to change. The good news, one person (you for example) can take the initiative to change a conflict pattern. It takes time for the old pattern to unstick, and the new script might need fine-tuning. With consistency, you can change an undesirable conflict pattern, even if the other person isn't aware of your effort until you decide to tell them.

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Dr. Deborah Sword is a conflict specialist with decades of experience and training to share.

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