Dec. 29, 2025

Collaborating with the Enemy When Leading Change | Ep 15

Collaborating with the Enemy When Leading Change | Ep 15

In this powerful and thought-provoking conversation, Adam Kahane joins Yvonne Ruke Akpoveta to explore what it truly means to collaborate in today’s divided, complex, and fast-changing world.


Adam is one of the world’s most respected voices on systems transformation and collaboration. He is the Co-Founder of Reos Partners, and author of multiple influential books including Solving Tough Problems, Power and Love, Transformative Scenario Planning, and Collaborating with the Enemy, which is the focus of this episode.


Together, Adam and Yvonne explore:

  • Why he rewrote the second edition of Collaborating with the Enemy
  • The growing challenge of “enemy-fication” in workplaces and society
  • What “stretch collaboration” looks like and why it’s crucial today
  • Misconceptions about collaboration, resistance, and leadership
  • How leaders can navigate high-conflict, high-complexity environments
  • What it means to take responsibility for change, starting with yourself


This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating conflict, resistance, or polarization while trying to move change forward.


Guest Bio

Adam Kahane is a pioneering facilitator of processes through which business, government, and civil society leaders collaborate to address their most important and intractable challenges. He is a Co-Founder of Reos Partners and the best-selling author of Solving Tough Problems, Power and Love, Transformative Scenario Planning, Collaborating with the Enemy, Facilitating Breakthrough, and Everyday Habits for Transforming Systems.


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