How to Disagree Better | Julia Minson

31.08.2026 · 1 Std. 16 Min.

Shownotes

Disagreements are inevitable, but they don’t have to become conflicts. Harvard Kennedy School professor Julia Minson joins us to explore why we struggle to see perspectives different from our own and how openness, curiosity, and humility can lead to more productive conversations. We also get practical strategies for navigating difficult conversations, from asking better questions to understanding what we actually know versus what we’re simply assuming.

Topics

[0:00] Introduction and Speed Round with Julia Minson

[6:16] Does Feeling Heard Make Us More Receptive?

[19:23] Why Context Matters in Conflict

[21:13] What Is Naive Realism?

[37:37] Why Receptiveness Isn't Weakness

[42:00] What Is "Boomer Asking"?

[44:39] How to Start a Difficult Conversation

[47:23] What Do You Actually Know?

[49:30] Asking Better Questions

[51:12] Are You Actually Being Curious?

[52:30] Using Notes to Have Better Conversations