Entrepreneur Encounter
Entrepreneur Encounter is a weekly podcast designed to support creative business owners in developing the soft skills that lead to lasting, values-aligned growth.
Hosted by Dana Johnson, founder of a boutique Pinterest marketing agency for wedding pros and creatives, and Sara Lowell, a consultant specializing in business management & team leadership along with podcast management, each episode explores the mindset shifts, communication skills, and leadership habits that empower entrepreneurs to grow sustainably—without the burnout.
Through real stories, practical frameworks, and transparent conversations, Dana and Sara offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to run a purpose-driven business in a constantly changing world.
Whether you're building your visibility, managing a team, or simply trying to stay grounded while growing, this podcast is your companion in business and in life.
Entrepreneur Encounter
How to Have Difficult Conversations Without Burning Bridges | EP 9
Ever held back a conversation for so long that it turned into a ticking time bomb? In this episode, we get real about the messy emotions, mounting overwhelm, and quiet assumptions that can build up when we avoid speaking our truth. From burnout tears to breakthrough clarity, we share how one honest talk completely shifted the way we work together and why those conversations, though uncomfortable, are what actually save relationships and projects.
We dive into the art of having difficult conversations before they spiral into full-blown conflicts. Breaking down real-life examples from our own business and podcast partnership, unpack why avoidance makes things worse, and share practical frameworks for tackling tough talks with clients, team members, or even yourself. Whether you’re leading a team, collaborating with a partner, or navigating client relationships, this conversation will help you lean into conflict resolution as a core soft skill.
What to listen for in this episode:
- The hidden costs of avoiding difficult conversations—and how it fuels burnout.
- Two frameworks you can use right away: “Name it Early” and the “Relationship-Preserving Approach.”
- Scripts and starter phrases to make tough conversations collaborative instead of confrontational.
Whether you’re looking to grow your visibility through Pinterest Marketing or streamline your Podcast Operations and Team Management, we help business owners and creatives build sustainable systems that work for them, not against them.
Want to learn more about how this can work for you and your business, reach out to us!
Connect with Entrepreneur Encounter:
Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/3azyca95
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/entrepreneur_encounter/
Host Sara Lowell:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youarerembert/
Website: https://www.youarerembertllc.com/
Host Dana Johnson:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danas.desk.nc/
Website: https://ddvirtualmanagement.com/