Difficult Conversations

🎙 Say It Straight with Gina — Helping you speak with clarity, courage, and connection.

Episode 1: Difficult Conversations with Eric Derby

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Gina sits down with Eric Derby, an expert listener and conversation space-giver,, for straight-talk about difficult conversations. They explore what you should say instead of, “I think we can find a solution for that”; what Eric's sister said to him that made him so upset; and the biggest reason to pause and listen more in your conversations.

Whether you’re here to grow in honest communication or initiate a difficult conversation in one of your relationships, this episode will give you clear insight and practical encouragement.

Meet today's guest:
Eric Derby is the Director of Development and Planned Giving at D&R Greenway Land Trust, where he works to ensure the long-term sustainability of land preservation efforts across New Jersey. Guided by a deep commitment to protecting the environment for his family and future generations, Eric brings a passion for fostering authentic connections with supporters and partners.

He values communication that creates space for people to truly be heard, and he is continually working to deepen his listening — not only to words, but to the intentions and emotions behind them. This approach informs both his professional fundraising work and his broader engagement with the community.

✨ Connect with Eric ✨
•LinkedIn:   / eric-derby-482355b  
•D&R Greenway Land Trust: https://drgreenway.org

About Your Host:
Hi, I’m Gina — host of Straightway Through with Gina. I believe honest words guide us, and real conversations transforms us into ourselves. Each week I dig into the struggles and stories we don’t always say out loud, from the sting of being left on read to the courage it takes to speak up. My hope? That you leave each episode with more clarity, more courage, and a straight path forward.

✨ Connect with Me ✨
Website: https://straightwaycoaching.com
Podcast updates + resources: Straightway Through Newsletter: @
Facebook:   / gina.mongiello.3  
YouTube:    / @straightwaythrough  

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