I Said No...How to Address Conflict Head On with Dr. Jen Fry episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 20, 2026 · 28 MIN

I Said No...How to Address Conflict Head On with Dr. Jen Fry

from Productive Joy · host Dr. Christie McMullen

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Jen Fry, a speaker, author, and sports geographer who specializes in transforming conflict into growth. Dr. Fry discusses how her upbringing with a conflict-avoidant parent shaped her understanding of conflict and how she now helps others navigate it effectively. She explains that conflict, while difficult, is essential for improving mental health and relationships. Dr. Fry shares insights from her book, 'I Said No: How to Have a Backbone of Boundaries without Being a Jerk,' emphasizing the importance of practical approaches to conflict resolution. She also highlights the vital role of self-reflection and treating others well, even on challenging days. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy00:04 Meet Dr. Jen Fry00:37 The Importance of Addressing Conflict01:14 Jen's Personal Journey with Conflict03:35 Navigating Family Dynamics07:09 The Power of Setting Boundaries11:00 Choosing Your Hard13:34 Transition from Volleyball Coach to Speaker14:20 Lessons Learned from Coaching15:39 Pursuing a PhD and Understanding Power16:55 Theoretical vs. Practical Knowledge17:56 Defining Productive Joy21:13 Navigating Conflict for Joy25:07 Rapid Fire Questions

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Jen Fry, a speaker, author, and sports geographer who specializes in transforming conflict into growth. Dr. Fry discusses how her upbringing with a conflict-avoidant parent shaped her understanding of conflict and how she now helps others navigate it effectively. She explains that conflict, while difficult, is essential for improving mental health and relationships. Dr. Fry shares insights from her book, 'I Said No: How to Have a Backbone of Boundaries without Being a Jerk,' emphasizing the importance of practical approaches to conflict resolution. She also highlights the vital role of self-reflection and treating others well, even on challenging days. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy00:04 Meet Dr. Jen Fry00:37 The Importance of Addressing Conflict01:14 Jen's Personal Journey with Conflict03:35 Navigating Family Dynamics07:09 The Power of Setting Boundaries11:00 Choosing Your Hard13:34 Transition from Volleyball Coach to Speaker14:20 Lessons Learned from Coaching15:39 Pursuing a PhD and Understanding Power16:55 Theoretical vs. Practical Knowledge17:56 Defining Productive Joy21:13 Navigating Conflict for Joy25:07 Rapid Fire Questions

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I Said No...How to Address Conflict Head On with Dr. Jen Fry

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This episode is 28 minutes long.

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This episode was published on January 20, 2026.

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In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Jen Fry, a speaker, author, and sports geographer who specializes in transforming conflict into growth. Dr. Fry discusses how her upbringing with a conflict-avoidant parent shaped her...

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