The Crucible: How to Fight Smarter & Turn Conflict into Connection

Foundations Stage
Every great story has a Crucible - the moment where everything is on the line. Whether it's a standoff with a co-founder, tension in a creative partnership, or a high-stakes negotiation, these moments define you. The way you handle friction determines whether you break down or break through. Some avoid conflict. Others charge through it. But the smartest founders, operators, and creatives know when to engage, how to fight, and when to let go. In this interactive workshop, May Samali, Founder & CEO of Human Leadership Lab, will share a practical toolkit to help you master the art of conflict and turn tension into trust. You'll learn; 1)The 3 Types of Conflict – Identify what you're actually dealing with. 2) The Fight Smarter Framework – When to push, when to step back, and how to challenge without breaking trust. 3) Tactical Tools – Disarm defensiveness, navigate tough conversations, and turn friction into deeper connection. This isn’t about avoiding conflict - it’s about harnessing it for transformation, sharper decisions, and stronger partnerships. Because the best relationships - personal or professional - aren’t the ones without battles. They’re the ones built by learning to fight smarter. No friction, no growth. No struggle, no story. Step into The Crucible.

Session Speakers

May Samali

May Samali is the Founder & CEO of Human Leadership Lab, unlocking leadership potential through coaching, research, and investment. A Harvard graduate and venture partner, her insights have been featured in TechCrunch, Forbes, and more.