The Gift of Resistance
Resistance is often seen as the enemy of change, but what if it’s actually a gift? In this session, we’ll explore how resistance can be first identified and then reframed as a valuable tool for driving deeper engagement, uncovering hidden risks and achieving stronger outcomes in change initiatives.
Drawing from more than 20 years of experience leading complex transformations in global organizations, I’ll share real-world examples and lessons learned from projects that didn’t go as planned – and how resistance played a pivotal role in turning them around. We’ll examine practical strategies for identifying the root causes of resistance, fostering open dialogue, and building trust to transform opposition into collaboration.
Attendees will gain actionable insights on how to:
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Leverage frameworks for identifying resistance
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Reframe resistance as an opportunity rather than a barrier
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Engage listening strategies to understand what’s getting in the way of success
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Use resistance to uncover critical perspectives and unmet needs
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Engage leaders and teams in meaningful conversations that drive alignment
By the end of this session, you’ll see resistance in a new light – not as a roadblock, but as a powerful catalyst for creating more thoughtful, inclusive, and sustainable change. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the field, this session will equip you with tools and strategies to embrace “The Gift of Resistance” and position your teams for long-term success.
About the Speaker:
Brandee Fantini
Brandee Fantini is a Prosci- and Change Guides-certified change leader at TiER1 Performance with over 20 years of experience guiding global organizations through transformation. Known for her people-first approach, she helps teams turn resistance into opportunity and build lasting alignment through empathy and engagement.
Believing that “change management is an inside job,” Brandee empowers those closest to the work to lead sustainable change. In her session, The Gift of Resistance, she explores how reframing resistance can spark growth, connection, and stronger outcomes.
Passionate about putting people at the heart of transformation, Brandee calls herself “the Lorax of change management”—because she speaks for the people.
David Whitley
David Whitley has more than 25 years of experience as a Change & Creativity Strategist supporting the Fortune 500 in business verticals from healthcare and e-commerce to retail and the financial sector. David also has significant IT management experience and led organizations toward increased product innovation through creative people-centered operations.
The performing arts has always been a passion and so he works to bring this creativity into his consulting. Developing project cultures where creativity flourishes is the foundation for surprising and delighting clients, and supercharging their outcomes.
