Just Say Yes: Dana Bernstein on Brave Careers, Coaching Through Conflict, and the Human Side of Project Management

Dana Bernstein (see her bio below) has built a career and a life by saying yes to unexpected opportunities. From publishing dozens of articles on negotiation to managing a family-run animal hospital to coaching leaders in high-stakes conflict, Dana brings empathy, clarity, and boldness to everything she touches.

In this episode, Dana turns the tables mid-conversation and coaches me through a moment of internal conflict, bringing her interactive book, It’s the Thought That Counts, to life in real time. It’s a powerful demonstration of how reframing can shift not just mindset but action.

We also explore how Dana is redefining project management by focusing on connection, compassion, and what she calls “the art of human-ness.” With over 2,100 coaching hours and experience spanning universities, courts, and corporate boardrooms, she’s on a mission to help people navigate tension with curiosity and courage.

This episode is a crash course in communication, leadership, and saying yes even when the path isn’t fully clear.

 

 

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About ​Dana: ​Dana Bernstein is a Conflict Resolution author, speaker, consultant, and Principal of Dare to Live Brave. With 2,100 coaching hours and 100 clients, she specializes in de-escalation, negotiations, contracts, project management, and high-stakes situations representing universities, government, banking, and courts. She founded and manages a family-run animal hospital.

Dana published 30 articles on contracts and negotiations (1995-2007). She produced 8 PMI webinars with “Mastering the Art of Human-ness in Project Management: Serving Others Through Powerful Communication,” garnering 52,500 views since March 2020.​ In 2025, Dana published “It’s the Thought That Counts: Mastering the Art of YOU vs. you,” an interactive book helping individuals resolve internal conflict to better navigate external challenges. Dana has a Master’s in Dispute Resolution from Montclair State and is a court-appointed mediator. She is an ICF NJ Board Member, Co-Director of Programs with a PCC Credential. She is a Project Management Professional and Certified Meeting Professional. 

An avid volunteer, Dana has been working with the Girl Scouts and the Girl Scout Service Unit Leadership Team for 15 years. She is a strong supporter of women advocating for informed health choices for those who have breast cancer.