THE BLOG
For the Record
Strategic opinions, unpopular truths, and what actually works in conflict.
This isn’t a lifestyle blog. And it’s definitely not AI-generated content stitched together with buzzwords and vibes.
For the Record is where Susannah Margison—lawyer, mediator, conflict coach, and reformed overthinker—writes about what it means to handle conflict in real life. Not in theory. Not in a leadership retreat. But in the moment when your hands are clammy, your voice is tight, and someone’s just blindsided you in a meeting.
Expect:
Clear language for unclear situations
Scripts, strategies, and reframes that hold up under scrutiny
Sharp opinions (delivered with tact)
The occasional “oh no… I’ve definitely done that” moment
This is where clarity meets composure—with a side of dry humour and a heavy filter for nonsense. It’s also where Susannah is building her own voice—out loud, on purpose, and unapologetically.
Start where it stings. Or start where it might actually help next time.
What Law School Didn’t Teach Me About Conflict
Law school taught me how to argue—but not how to stay grounded when the stakes felt personal. After 13 years in the profession, here’s what I’ve learned about emotional regulation, conflict hangovers, and why raising your conflict threshold might be the most important leadership skill you never learned in school.
How To Deliver Bad News Without Ruining the Relationship
Learn how to deliver bad news to a client, a co-worker, or a friend and still have a good relationship (or even make it stronger!).
How To Stop People Pleasing Once and for All: 10 Steps
Learn how to stop people pleasing and being a pushover so you can leverage yourself and your energy to get closer to your ambitious goals.
How To Improve Executive Presence and Become Unstoppable
If you're ready to overcome ongoing disputes, here's how to improve your executive presence for more effective conflict resolution.
Family Drama During the Holidays: 7 Strategies to Survive
Are you dealing with family drama during the holidays? These effective strategies can make it much less annoying.
ADHD and Conflict: A Guide to Healthy Confrontation
Discover practical strategies to navigate ADHD-related conflicts and foster better outcomes in your relationships. Read the article for helpful insights.
How to Fix Your Reputation After a Scandal
Rebuild your reputation with essential steps for recovery and growth. Discover practical strategies to restore trust and enhance your image. Read more!
How to Prepare for a Difficult Conversation: 5 Steps
Learn effective strategies to navigate tough conversations with confidence. Prepare yourself and strengthen your communication skills—read the guide now!
Is It Worth Suing Your Employer? The Real Truth
Considering legal action against your employer? Explore the pros and cons, important factors, and whether it's the right choice for you. Read more.
How to Respond to Gaslighting and Crush It
Have you ever been told that you're imagining things but you know for a fact that it happened? Here's how to respond to gaslighting.
How to Deal with a Mean Girl: 7 No-Nonsense Strategies
Dealing with a backstabbing co-worker or an adult bully? Here's how to deal with a mean girl once and for all.
From Crisis to CEO: How One Therapist Transformed Her Career After a Setback
Ever felt like one mistake could unravel everything you’ve worked for? That’s exactly where my client, a talented therapist, found herself after a major admin error put her under scrutiny. But instead of letting that setback define her, we turned it into her greatest comeback. From revamping her practice management to rebuilding her confidence and transforming her professional image, she went from overwhelmed to unstoppable. Discover how strategic counsel and a mindset shift helped her reclaim her power and step into her role as a true CEO.
Mastering Contracts: Why Understanding the Basics is Your Secret Weapon
Contracts might sound boring, but they’re the hidden power plays in your daily life—whether you’re sealing a business deal, hiring a contractor, or even just grabbing your morning coffee. Understanding the basics of contracts isn’t just about avoiding pitfalls—it’s about leveling up your game. It’s about making sure every agreement you enter sets you up for success. In my latest blog post, I’m breaking down what you need to know, from red flags to look out for, to the key clauses that could make or break your next big move. Don’t just sign on the dotted line—own it!
How to Negotiate with a Narcissist: 7 Strategies to Win
Learn how to negotiate with a narcissist, beat them, and find comfort in conflict with these 7 bullet-proof strategies.
What Happens When You Get Canceled: Your Survival Guide
Wondering what happens when you get canceled? Learn how to bounce back from a scandal and come out stronger than ever.
The Ultimate Revenge: Thriving Despite Bullies
Tired of the same old advice on handling bullies? This post dives into the raw truth of bullying, why revenge isn’t the answer, and how to truly reclaim your power. Learn the ultimate comeback strategy to stop the loss, create a vision for a better life, and implement a plan that leads to genuine happiness and success. Ready to turn the tables on your aggressors? Read on and rise above.
How To Build Your Personal Leadership Brand
Follow these 5 steps to build your personal leadership brand, increase your influence, and start leading your team like the boss you want to be.
How To Apologize Without Saying Sorry (+ Mistakes to Avoid!)
Apologizing can be tough. Here's how to apologize without saying sorry, plus 5 things to avoid if you don't want to wreck your apology!
The Biggest Conflict Resolution Mistake You Don’t Know You’re Making
One of the BIGGEST mistakes people make when dealing with a conflict is they rush in to try and resolve it before they have any idea of what actually caused it.
The Curse of Great Expectations
One of the easiest ways to avoid and mitigate conflict is to manage others’ expectations from the outset of the interaction. In fact, most of the conflict situations I’m asked to help businesses with stem from a failure to meet a client’s expectations.
