E403 | How to Stop Going in Circles with People Who Twist Conversations

Ever had a discussion that felt like quicksand? You’re trying to solve one thing, but somehow you end up defending three other things that weren’t even part of the original issue. The topic shifts, the tone changes, and before you know it, you’re stuck in a loop.   In this episode, Brett breaks down why some people constantly derail conversations—whether by changing the subject, twisting words, or moving the goalposts—and how to stop that cycle before it eats away at your time, energy, and credibility.   This isn’t about learning debate tricks or “winning” arguments. It’s about keeping conversations grounded in reality, staying emotionally regulated, and getting back to the real point instead of getting baited into someone else’s chaos.   ⸻   You’ll Learn: •Why arguments loop in the first place — and the psychological drivers behind conversational derailment. •How to identify the real issue beneath the noise so you stop reacting to symptoms and address the actual source. •Three simple tactics to regain control mid-conversation without escalating the conflict or looking defensive. •How to spot conversational manipulation early and shut it down before it snowballs. •When to walk away — and how to end a circular argument cleanly, without guilt or drama.   ⸻   Who This Is For: •Leaders who keep having the same meetings that go nowhere. •Couples or parents tired of every discussion turning into a blame game. •Coaches, managers, and business owners who deal with emotionally charged people and high-stakes conversations.   If you’ve ever left a talk thinking, “We just went in circles again,” this one’s for you.   ⸻   Related Resources: •Want help improving your communication, leadership, and decision-making under pressure? Apply for our 1-to-1 or small-group mentoring programs at www.artofcoaching.com/mentoring. •Join us for our next live Apprenticeship Workshop in Phoenix, AZ – May 2026, where we’ll dig into influence, power dynamics, and the practical side of human behavior. Details and registration: www.artofcoaching.com/events.