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Breakout 3: The Difficult Conversations that Build Better Teams

November 10, 2026 @ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm

About Session

Presenter: Justin Bailey, Lone Star Communications

Avoiding difficult conversations may feel easier in the moment, but it often creates a whole new set of problems: deeper dysfunction, weakened trust, and an environment that allows small issues to turn into big problems. In this session, emerging leaders will learn how direct communication, vulnerability-based trust, and the willingness to address tension early can build strong teams. We’ll share practical frameworks to use for leading honest, constructive conversations. Then, we’ll walk through real-world examples of how leaders have handled awkward or emotionally charged conversations to improve team dynamics.

Inspired by These Next-Gen Academy Concepts:

  • Difficult conversations and assertiveness
  • Conflict resolution
  • Building trust and credibility
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Personal growth and self-awareness
  • Leadership transition