263 Kim Faircloth & Dawn Bedlivy - Conflict Sparks Change

Kim Faircloth is a conflict resolution expert with over 30 years of experience in mediation, executive coaching, and leadership development. As founder of Conflict Sparks Change, LLC and senior principal trainer at the Mediation Training Institute, she has guided thousands in transforming workplace conflict into growth. With a doctorate in conflict and mediation, she’s held roles from ombudsman to HR director—always driven by a passion for peacemaking and empowering individuals and organizations to thrive.

Dawn Bedlivy is a seasoned mediator, ombudsman, and conflict systems coach with 30+ years of experience in alternative dispute resolution and leadership development. Known for designing innovative conflict resolution strategies, she has led impactful organizational change across sectors. As adjunct faculty at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, she educates future professionals while continuing to consult and train nationally. Her work bridges legal insight and human-centered solutions to foster healthier, more productive workplaces.

In this episode, Jason, Kim, and Dawn discuss:

• Why conflict is a catalyst for transformation, not just disruption
• How leaders can shift their mindset and skill set around conflict
• The “Four C’s” that build trust during conflict
• Practical models from their book, including the HERE and SORTED frameworks
• Real-world leadership stories where team conflict was successfully transformed

Key Takeaways: 

• Conflict isn’t just a workplace nuisance—it can be the spark that ignites innovation, progress, and cultural transformation.
• Self-reflective leadership isn’t optional but essential; those who own their conflict style earn lasting trust and influence.
• Trust doesn’t materialize during tension—it’s built brick by brick through visible competence, calm confidence, behavioral consistency, and authentic care.
• Through the HERE model, a practical framework unfolds, guiding leaders to stay present, establish clarity, and co-create a productive path forward.
• With the SORTED method, listeners are handed a new lens to decode complex, emotional situations, turning confusion into actionable understanding.

“Conflict does spark change. It's when two ideas, values, inte