What do you do if your Podcasting network is in conflict with another?

1 Assess Impact

Before taking any action, evaluate how the conflict is affecting your network. Consider whether it's a minor issue that can be resolved with a simple conversation or a major dispute that could harm your reputation or bottom line. Understanding the stakes involved will help you decide on the level of response necessary. It's important to stay calm and not let emotions dictate your actions. Instead, focus on the facts and how the conflict impacts your content, listeners, and relationships within the industry.

3 Mediation Option

If direct communication doesn't resolve the conflict, consider third-party mediation. A neutral mediator can facilitate a discussion between the networks to find common ground and negotiate a settlement. Mediation is less formal than legal action and can preserve business relationships by focusing on compromise rather than confrontation. It's a cost-effective way to address disputes without resorting to the courts, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

4 Legal Advice

In situations where the dispute cannot be resolved through dialogue or mediation, seeking legal advice is the next step. A lawyer with experience in media and intellectual property law can provide guidance on your rights and options. They can help draft legal documents, represent your interests in negotiations, and, if necessary, prepare for litigation. However, legal action should be considered a last resort due to its potential to burn bridges and drain resources.

5 Policy Review

Use the experience as an opportunity to review and update your network's policies and contracts to prevent future conflicts. Ensure that your agreements with podcasters, advertisers, and other networks are clear and cover potential areas of dispute. This might include clearer intellectual property rights, dispute resolution clauses, and communication protocols. Regularly updating these documents can save a lot of trouble down the road by setting clear expectations for all parties involved.

6 Maintain Poise

Throughout the conflict resolution process, it's vital to maintain professionalism and poise. How you handle the situation can affect your network's reputation in the podcasting community. Stay respectful, avoid public confrontations, and strive to keep your audience insulated from the dispute. By managing the conflict with grace and tact, you demonstrate leadership and may even strengthen your network's position in the industry.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?