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Difficult conversation curveballs: What would you do?

Wednesday 17 June 2026 | 11 am - 12 pm AEST

The most challenging leadership conversations today are rarely straightforward. Empathy and accountability collide. Psychological safety is tested. High performers influence culture. Team frustration spreads.

In this practical, discussion-driven masterclass, Zandy Fell, Director and conflict resolution practitioner from The ZALT Group and Ingrid Jenkins, Sonder's Chief People Officer will explore contemporary workplace scenarios and leadership curveballs that are increasingly challenging leaders across Australian workplaces. 

Drawing on real examples, participants will unpack common traps, compare different responses, and examine the subtle shifts that separate reactive leadership from skilful leadership.

What you'll learn in this masterclass:

  • How to navigate contemporary leadership tensions where wellbeing, psychological safety, flexibility and accountability intersect.
  • Practical approaches for responding to difficult conversation curveballs including emotional reactions, resistance, defensiveness and challenging behaviours.
  • How to address emerging workplace dynamics such as informal influence, emotional contagion, team frustration and the impact of struggling employees on colleagues.
  • The leadership habits, language and decision-making approaches that distinguish competent leaders from highly effective leaders in difficult moments.

Together, we will explore what good looks like, what great looks like, and how to respond when there is no obvious right answer.

Submit your questions
Two people talking conversation

Our speakers

Ingrid Jenkins
Ingrid Jenkins (Host)
Chief People Officer, Sonder
Zandy Fell
Zandy Fell
Director and conflict resolution practitioner, The Zalt Group
Report

The rising risk of 
workplace burnout

Our latest report, The rising risk of workplace burnout, shares insights from more than 2000+ employees and expert commentary on strategies to mitigate risk and support employees' wellbeing. What's inside:

The widespread risk of burnout
New statistics reveal that almost half of Australian and New Zealand employees are experiencing feelings of burnout and exhaustion

The impact of burnout on businesses
From reduced productivity and employee turnover to psychosocial risk, we analyse the potential risk for leaders and organisations

Strategies to mitigate burnout
Leaders in People and Culture and psychosocial risk share actionable, expert advice to avoid burnout in the workplace

How Sonder can help
We share the tools our customers are using to prevent burnout and stress in their organisation

Download the Report
Preview-2x2-Burnout-2

What you need to know

Webinar FAQs

Is this masterclass free to attend?

Yes, this masterclass is free to attend.

We encourage you to share the registration link with colleagues who may benefit from attending.

What if I can’t attend live? Will this session be recorded?

Yes. The masterclass will be recorded and shared with all registered attendees after the session, so you can watch it later if you’re unable to join live.

How do I join the masterclass?

Once you register, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your unique Zoom link to join the webinar on the day.

How long will the masterclass run for?

The session will run for approximately 45–60 minutes, including time for audience Q&A.

Will there be an opportunity to ask questions?

Yes. There will be a live Q&A throughout the webinar, and you’ll also be able to submit questions before the session here.

Who should attend this masterclass?

This session is designed for leaders, HR, people & culture, and health and safety professionals interested in building healthier, more supportive workplaces.

Employee wellbeing remains under pressure
more than ever

Access all the insights in the State of Employee Health and Wellbeing Report 2026 today
Download now