[TIPS] Difficult Conversations in Action – A Role-Play Using GGCC

Podcast: Simply Trade Tips (Hammer & Heels)
Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks
Published: January 6, 2026
Episode Length: ~10 minutes
Series: Difficult Conversations (Episode 3 – Role Play)

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Episode Summary

In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks bring their Difficult Conversations series to life with a practical role-play scenario. Wearing their “Pitcher & Catcher” jerseys, they walk listeners through a real-world example of how to ask for a raise using their GGCC framework—a simple, repeatable approach designed to make tough conversations more productive, respectful, and collaborative.

This episode moves beyond theory and shows how preparation, tone, and structure can completely change the outcome of a high-stakes discussion.

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Key Learnings

• Why difficult conversations improve when both sides understand their role as Pitcher (initiator) and Catcher (receiver)

• How the GGCC framework works in real life:

  • G – Greeting: Set a respectful, appreciative tone

  • G – Groundwork: Explain the purpose and context

  • C – Concern: Clearly and directly state the issue

  • C – Closing: Align on next steps with a statement and a question

• How to ask for a raise by focusing on role elevation and business value, not emotion

• Why role-playing difficult conversations reduces tension and improves clarity

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Practical Takeaways

• Write out difficult conversations before having them

• Practice with a trusted colleague by switching Pitcher and Catcher roles

• Focus on collaboration, not confrontation

• Understand your company’s timing and cycles before initiating compensation discussions

• Use structure to keep conversations professional and productive

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FIO (Figure It Out) – This Week’s Challenge

Identify a difficult conversation you’ve been avoiding.
Then:

1. Write it out using the GGCC framework

2. Role-play it with someone you trust

3. Refine the language to ensure clarity, respect, and partnership

Bonus: Bring the scenario into the Trade Geeks Community and share what worked—or where you got stuck.

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Resources & Community

• Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/

• Simply Trade Podcast:

  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

  • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

  • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

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Credits

Hosts:

• Renee Chiuchiarelli

• Julie Parks

Producer:

• Lalo Solorzano

🎙️ Simply Trade is a podcast by Global Training Center, bringing practical insights to trade and customs professionals worldwide.

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Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.

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