"In Difficult Conversations Don't Have to Be Difficult , Jon and Amy share a great story of leadership to create a connected and collaborative people working together culture of love by design to create value and growth for the greater good. A key element is a psychologically safe culture where everyone expects the unexpected and expects to deal with it positively. Difficult issues are 'gems' to respect and solve by working together." -- Alan Mulally , Former CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes and Ford Motor Company "Having difficult, messy conversations lies at the heart of teamwork. Jon and Amy have written an immensely readable book to help take the sting out of those conversations, transforming workplace tension into understanding and reconciliation." -- Patrick Lencioni , best-selling author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and The Six Types of Working Genius "We all know that some conversations are more challenging than others. Communication is a key skill for everyone in the workplace and life, especially executives. This story brings practical structure to assist in having the important conversations that make us all better individually and collectively.

-- Maria Moore , Chief Marketing Officer, Veritone "Excellent communication is critical for bringing values to life in our workplaces and communities. Oftentimes, people shy away from having constructive conversations when situations are challenging, or topics are sensitive. Interpersonal relationships and teams can be strengthened when people choose to artfully navigate around and through these roadblocks by exercising transparency, trust, and vulnerability to reach higher ground. With application of the principles shared, the story of Ruth and her team in this book will help other leaders and teams improve this important skill set and achieve success." -- Cheri D. Benedetti , SHRM-SCP, Senior Vice President, Human Resources Officer, The Villages Health "The way we approach the more challenging and sensitive conversations can truly make or break teams and organizations. This story about Ruth and her executive team really hits the mark with relatable scenarios that challenge all of us. I'm adding the model provided by Amy and Jon to my set of resources to continue elevating my own communication.

" -- Donya Jenkins , President, Fredericksburg SHRM.