Disagreement in life is inevitable. A heated debate in a seminar, a difference of opinion in a group chat, or a challenging conversation about a global issue. Communicating effectively with people whose views are different from ours is hard - how we handle these situations can make all the difference.
The Bridge: a Disagreeing Well podcast from UCL, is the first podcast of it’s kind across the Higher Education Sector, exploring what it means to engage in meaningful disagreement. Produced by the Students’ Union and UCL, The Bridge equips you with tools and techniques to navigate challenging conversations.
Presented by our student hosts, Tara Constantine and Lea Hofer, who are also Impartial Chairs, each episode brings together diverse voices from a range of backgrounds to debate some of the most controversial and thought-provoking issues of our time; from social media bans, toxic masculinity, the ethics of tourism, veganism and so much more.
With support from UCL’s expert mediator, Dr Melanie Garson, each episode introduces practical tools for navigating disagreement. These techniques are tested in real time, helping our presenters, guests, and listeners build the skills needed to engage meaningfully with complex issues.
“Building the skillset to approach challenging conversations instead of shying away from them can be transformational. Through listening to others debate and being guided in how to share stories more constructively, you not only recognise parallels in some of the dynamics we may find ourselves in daily, but may feel more confident in exploring the viewpoints of others to help your own personal growth. Differences handled with respect and dignity open up doors to understanding and new possibilities."- Dr Melanie Garson
We hope this series offers a fresh perspective on disagreement by empowering listeners with practical communication tools to navigate challenging conversations and foster understanding, rather than shutting them down.
Listen now to gain insight into vital debates and discover tools to help you communicate more thoughtfully, confidently, and effectively at UCL and beyond.
What's Next
- Launched in 2023, the Impartial Chairs programme is a sector leading skills development programme run by Students’ Union UCL to create resilient and reflective student leaders. Applications for the next cohort of Impartial Chairs will open on 25 August 2025. The programme is heavily oversubscribed, so allow plenty of time to complete your application to avoid disappointment. Once applications open, click here to apply.