Everyday Mediator: Seven Practices for Navigating Conflict

Conflict is everywhere-at work, at home, in our communities. Yet most people either avoid it entirely or let it escalate into something destructive. We've been conditioned to believe that mediating disputes is only for those who've undergone special training, leaving the rest of us feeling helpless when tensions rise around us.

But what if you in fact already have everything you need to help others work through their differences?

Daniel Griffith, a lawyer, trained mediator, and educator with 30 years of experience, has worked with over 15,000 people across hundreds of groups and organizations. He's discovered that we can all become effective mediators by using seven simple practices that tap into skills we all naturally possess. In our increasingly polarized world, where colleagues suffer in toxic environments and communities fracture over different viewpoints, this isn't about becoming a professional mediator-it's about stepping in before misunderstandings become major rifts.

Through practical frameworks and real-world examples, Griffith shows you how to respond effectively in heated moments, facilitate difficult conversations, and help people find common ground without forcing false harmony. You'll learn to address underlying issues that fuel ongoing disputes and guide others toward productive dialogue, even when complete resolution isn't possible.

Whether it's helping teammates navigate a workplace disagreement or preventing a family argument from ruining Thanksgiving dinner, this book gives you confidence to step into conflict as a force for connection rather than division. The goal isn't always eliminating disagreement-it's supporting people to communicate clearly, engage in arguments more productively, and maintain dignity throughout the process.

Become the person others turn to when things get difficult. It's time to discover the everyday mediator within you.