Team

Hello, I’m Leo. My journey into the world of conflict resolution took root in an environment where disputes were settled with absolute finality—the United States Army. There, conflict meant confrontation, resolution through violence. Leaving the military sparked a profound realization: the approach of annihilating an adversary, or even viewing them as such, is counterproductive in the realm of day-to-day disagreements and negotiations. This epiphany set me on a quest for more constructive conflict management strategies.

My evolution has been shaped by real-world encounters. From public service to private enterprise, each interaction with clients, colleagues, and communities has enriched my understanding of conflict dynamics. My endeavors have led me to collaborate with grassroots organizations, share insights with professionals on critical issues like leadership and effective communication, and navigate the intricacies of labor relations as a union steward and bargaining team member during negotiations with SEIU Local 721 and Los Angeles County.

Educationally, I’ve fortified my expertise with a BS in Public Administration, focusing on Administrative Management, and an MA in Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, and Peacebuilding from California State University, Dominguez Hills. My academic pursuits—spanning community activism to structural violence and leadership—complement my practical experiences, fueling my passion for devising innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Through The Conflict Authority, I aim to share this passion, offering insights and strategies to navigate conflicts with clarity, compassion, and courage. Join me in transforming the way we perceive and resolve disputes, moving from confrontation to collaboration.