18 2026 Virtual Spring Conference The American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) www.abwa.org ©2026 ABWA LLC Speaker Information FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2026 2:45 PM–4:15 PM This interactive workshop equips leaders with a practical framework for navigating difficult conversations with clarity, respect, and confidence. Participants explore why these conversations feel challenging, practice diagnosing emotional and power dynamics, and apply the PREP framework to real workplace scenarios. Through small-group breakouts, peer discussion, and live coaching, leaders build skills to address conflict, give feedback, and set boundaries without avoiding or overexplaining. The session concludes with personal action planning to help participants leave ready to initiate a real conversation with courage and purpose. Ricky Banks is a Senior Lean and Six Sigma Coach at Gemba Academy with over 20 years of experience driving operational excellence and empowering teams. He has successfully deployed Lean and Six Sigma methodologies across manufacturing and distribution operations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. With a deep passion for mentoring, training, and coaching, Ricky engages individuals and teams in the pursuit of excellence. Prior to joining Gemba Academy, he held key leadership roles including Senior Continuous Improvement Manager, Senior MBB-Lean Deployment Manager, Process Improvement Manager—Corporate Excellence, and Quality/Environmental Coordinator. Earlier in his career, Ricky spent 17 years in the manufacturing industry. Ricky Banks Skills Lab: Having Difficult Conversations with Your Team
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