Why Cant We just Get Along? with Greg Singleton

Why is it so hard to have a calm, productive conversation these days? In this insightful episode, Dr. Amelia Kelley sits down with communication strategist and TEDx speaker Greg Singleton to unpack why meaningful dialogue has become such a challenge and how we can bridge the growing divide in our relationships, communities, and workplaces.

Greg shares a powerful framework for understanding the three types of conversations we all engage in: emotional, social, and practical, and how confusing them can quickly turn connection into conflict. He and Dr. Kelley explore how ego, emotional reactivity, and lack of self-awareness derail communication, and what it really takes to listen without judgment, speak with empathy, and repair trust even when you disagree.

Whether you’re navigating tense political discussions, family disagreements, or workplace friction, this episode offers grounded tools to help you stay centered, curious, and connected even when things get heated.

Key Takeaways:

“You can’t influence anyone you’re not willing to connect with.”
Emotional awareness helps you recognize whether a conversation is emotional, social, or practical and respond accordingly.
Curiosity disarms defensiveness and opens the door to understanding.
Accountability and empathy are essential for rebuilding communication in relationships and society.
Healthy dialogue doesn’t mean agreement, it means mutual respect.

⏰ Timestamps

00:00 – Why can’t we just get along?
01:00 – How ego blocks real communication
03:00 – The three types of conversations
09:00 – Reading nonverbal cues and emotional states
13:00 – How highly sensitive people communicate
18:00 – What to do when emotions run high
21:00 – How to step away from toxic conversations
30:00 – The power of listening and curiosity
39:00 – Finding common ground across differences
44:00 – Greg’s TEDx talk and closing thoughts

Connect with Dr. Amelia Kelley:
🌍 Website: https://www.ameliakelley.com
📸 Instagram:   / drameliakelley  
👩🏼‍💼 LinkedIn:   / drameliakelley