NEGOTIATEx

This episode of the NEGOTIATE X Podcast explores how negotiation preparation serves as a strategic advantage in today's complex sales landscape. David Chapnick of Vantage Partners shares insights on frameworks like FOCUS, the rise of AI in sales training, and the shift toward virtual negotiations.  He emphasizes aligning internal teams, building trust with clients, and balancing collaboration with co-opetition. Listeners will learn why effective preparation—not just tactics—drives better outcomes, deeper relationships, and long-term value.  With real-world examples and practical advice, the conversation underscores that meaningful negotiation capability is built over time through intentional practice, coaching, and investment in people—not quick fixes.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATE X Podcast, David Chapnick, Partner at Vantage Partners, shares how strategic alignment transforms negotiation, sales, and organizational culture. From a formative internship to leading global initiatives, David reflects on lessons in alliance building, collaborative negotiation, and salesforce transformation.  He emphasizes the importance of listening, understanding customer needs, and building trust in high-stakes environments. Additionally, David outlines how piloting small changes, embracing thoughtful preparation, and shifting away from transactional mindsets create long-term value.  His insights offer a practical roadmap for professionals aiming to improve negotiation effectiveness and drive meaningful, sustainable outcomes across industries.  

This episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast explores how authentic growth in negotiation emerges through failure, introspection, and unlearning. Dr. Joshua Weiss emphasizes the importance of honest self-reflection, identifying systemic causes of poor outcomes, and avoiding surface-level lessons.  He introduces tools like the “weakness chart” and underscores the need for emotional clarity, adaptability, and proactive re-engagement after setbacks. Using personal stories and real-world examples, Joshua illustrates how negotiators can replace limiting beliefs with intentional strategies.  The episode challenges listeners to embrace discomfort, confront internal narratives, and use failure as a catalyst for meaningful learning, deeper self-awareness, and lasting improvement.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Dr. Joshua Weiss returns to discuss his latest book, Getting Back to the Table: 5 Steps to Reviving Stalled Negotiations. Drawing from personal experience and professional insights, Josh explores why embracing failure is crucial to negotiation success.  He shares a five-step framework to help individuals and teams analyze setbacks, unlearn ineffective habits, and return with greater resilience. Through emotional storytelling, practical guidance, and psychological depth, Josua emphasizes the transformative power of failure in both personal growth and organizational culture—reframing it as a necessary and powerful catalyst for lasting progress.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Fred E. Jandt reflects on his work with the California Department of Transportation. It's where he led a transformative initiative to promote negotiation mastery and conflict resolution amid rising demands for accountability. By training managers in structured conflict analysis, he shifted leadership from reactive habits to strategic engagement.  Fred emphasizes emotional regulation—especially anger—as essential to negotiation mastery and explores how virtual platforms and AI have redefined mediation. Addressing power imbalances and ethical challenges, he highlights preparation and empathy as core to effective leadership.  He concludes with actionable strategies for influencing upward, aligning proposals with authority figures' priorities through clarity, persuasion, and emotional intelligence.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Fred E. Jandt—renowned author, educator, and conflict resolution expert—shares insights on negotiation, mediation, and intercultural communication.  Drawing from decades of experience, Fred explores persistent myths about conflict, ethical concerns in transactional negotiation, and the cultural dynamics of “face” in diplomacy. He also underscores the shortcomings of avoidance and formal processes in today's workplaces while highlighting mediation skills to be vital for managers.  With practical wisdom from academia, government, and global diplomacy, Fred encourages leaders to embrace collaboration, challenge assumptions, and cultivate deeper, trust-based approaches to resolving disputes across diverse settings.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx Podcast, Chris Wong explores strategies for mastering critical conversations across leadership contexts. He emphasizes understanding communication processing styles to foster trust and avoid miscommunication.  Chris outlines effective mentorship structures, the universality of people challenges, and approaches to handling difficult individuals with empathy and boundaries. He shares techniques for leading organizational change through transparency and active listening.  Chris also discusses giving outcome-focused feedback and framing coaching as supportive guidance. In remote settings, he underscores the value of video calls and emotional intelligence to maintain connection and navigate tough discussions with clarity and presence.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Chris Wong, founder of Leadership Potential, dives into the heart of navigating difficult conversations. Drawing from years in nonprofit leadership and organizational development, he shares real-world stories and practical strategies that empower leaders to communicate with clarity and compassion. From managing burnout to balancing empathy with accountability, Chris talks about the factors shaping how we show up in high-stress moments. Further, he unpacks the hidden layers of power dynamics, the mindset shift required for challenging interactions, and how preparation transforms outcomes. Whether you're managing up, leading through conflict, or just trying to stay grounded, this conversation offers a refreshing, pragmatic take on transforming tension into meaningful connection.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, award-winning storyteller Simon Brooks shares practical insights into mastering the craft of storytelling. He begins with a key piece of advice: avoid using accents unless you have truly mastered them.  Simon also explains his method for internalizing stories by breaking them into seven parts. This approach aligns with how our memory works and helps keep each performance natural, engaging, and authentic. He encourages storytellers to find and trust their own voice rather than copy others. Throughout the conversation, Simon explores how storytelling can inspire leadership, enhance education, and build deeper human connections. For him, storytelling is not just a skill but a lifelong pursuit.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we have British storyteller Simon Brooks, who brilliantly entrances the audience with his tales and helps hundreds with presentation skills in his workshops. Instead of rekindling his profession as a professional photographer, Simon made a career shift and chose his deep passion for sharing stories with kids as a pastime. He expresses his joy in telling stories and how it helps build community transcending the barriers of time and space.  Simon answers how he navigates storytelling in the digital era by highlighting the element of authenticity. The entire discussion maps out the intricacies and the gratifying aspects of storytelling, aiming to connect with audience members and, at large, leave a lasting impression on them.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Seth Freeman delves into strategies for managing stress and crises, with a particular focus on honing negotiation skills under high-pressure conditions.  He explores the role of reassurances in building trust across personal, business, and international spheres, reinforcing the idea that negotiation skills are essential, learnable, and broadly applicable.  The discussion highlights the importance of strategic preparation and demonstrates how effective negotiation techniques can significantly influence outcomes across a variety of scenarios.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we explore the profound insights of Professor Seth Freeman, an expert in negotiation and conflict management with affiliations at Columbia University and NYU Stern.   With a transition from corporate law to academia, Seth discusses the joy he found in teaching and nurturing future negotiators. He critiques the zero-sum perception of negotiations, advocating for a balance of strength and kindness to transform negotiations into opportunities for collective success.  Highlighting the importance of preparation, Seth introduces practical tools and negotiation strategies, including role-playing and addressing anchoring in negotiations. Overall, the discussion underscores the complexities and rewarding aspects of negotiation, aiming to reshape conventional perceptions and enhance negotiation outcomes.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Terry Szuplat delves deeper into public speaking, challenging the overemphasis on body language. He highlights effective communicators like Barack Obama and nonverbal speaker Elizabeth Bonker, stressing the importance of content over physical gestures.  Terry explores techniques such as the strategic use of pauses, humor, and storytelling to maintain audience engagement and emphasize core messages. He concludes by underscoring the significance of authenticity in speechwriting, encouraging speakers to rely on their unique voices and real experiences to connect deeply and inspire action.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we are joined by Terry Szuplat, a former speechwriter for President Barack Obama and author of “Say It Well.” Terry shares his unique journey from aspiring lawyer to esteemed presidential speechwriter, emphasizing the pivotal role effective communication plays in leadership. He discusses the transformative power of speechwriting, the importance of authenticity in public speaking, and the impact of personal storytelling in engaging audiences. Terry also explores his personal transition from articulating presidential visions to discovering his own voice, offering profound insights into public speaking and leadership.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Mickey Bergman recounts his challenging experiences negotiating for Otto Warmbier's release from North Korea. He details his initial efforts in Pyongyang and the profound emotional impact of Warmbier's return in a coma.  Throughout the discussion, Mickey reflects on the complex nature of international negotiations, highlighting the importance of empathy, trust-building, and emotional intelligence in diplomatic interactions.  He shares insights on managing the emotional toll of such high-stakes situations and the critical role of personal connections in navigating the intricacies of crisis communication and negotiation outcomes.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we are joined by Mickey Bergman, CEO of Global Reach and expert in strategic and fringe diplomacy. Mickey shares his journey into high-stakes hostage negotiations, beginning with a mission in Sudan alongside Bill Richardson.  He also elaborates on the operations and philosophy of Global Reach, highlighting its independent, humanitarian-focused approach in negotiations detached from political complications. Mickey underscores the importance of empathy over sympathy in negotiations and strategic risk management in hostile territories.  Finally, he recounts the complex negotiation for Danny Fenster's release from Myanmar, showcasing the crucial role of emotional intelligence and personal rapport in successful negotiations.  

In this episode, Susan Raines discusses the importance of collaborative negotiation techniques and framing in communication, contrasting competitive and cooperative approaches. She criticizes hard anchoring and underscores the need for adaptability in negotiations, depending on context and relationship dynamics.  Susan extends the discussion to workplace diversity management, highlighting the benefits of diverse teams for business innovation and performance. She advises understanding cultural differences for effective cross-cultural negotiations and emphasizes cooperative problem-solving in mediation.  Finally, Susan encourages listeners to view daily interactions as opportunities to practice negotiation skills, promoting personal and professional growth through engaging in challenging conversations.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Dr. Susan Raines, a diplomat and academic expert in conflict management, shares her extensive experience and insights into effective conflict resolution strategies for managers. With a background in mediating over 18,000 cases and a prominent role in academia, Susan emphasizes the critical role of conflict management skills in leadership, especially for managers.  She discusses the importance of addressing conflicts through direct communication and maintaining team cohesion by managing difficult conversations. Susan also explores the varying approaches to conflict management across different sectors and highlights the universal need for transparent and proactive communication strategies to foster a positive organizational culture and enhance managerial effectiveness.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Ambassador Stuart E. Eizenstat explores the intricate process of negotiating with Iran, highlighting the 444-day hostage crisis among other examples to exemplify the complexities involved. He also discusses the US's role in mediating conflicts in places like Namibia and Northern Ireland.  Additionally, Stuart discusses how military force and diplomacy work together in US foreign policy and stresses the importance of strong domestic support for diplomacy. He wraps up by emphasizing the crucial role personal relationships play in achieving successful negotiations.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Ambassador Stuart E. Eizenstat takes us through his remarkable journey in US diplomacy, from advising President Carter to serving as US Ambassador to the European Union. He shares key negotiation and diplomacy skills that shaped his career, highlighting preparation, courage, and seizing pivotal moments, as seen in the Camp David Accords. Stuart also discusses his dedication to Holocaust restitution and the power of diplomacy in international relations. This insightful conversation offers valuable lessons on negotiation and the lasting impact of skilled diplomacy.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Ovul Sezer discusses self-awareness and impression management in social interactions. She describes her self-awareness as “self paranoia,” highlighting the fine line between being aware and overanalyzing. Additionally, she critiques “humble bragging” and notes that awareness of cognitive biases like anchoring doesn't automatically correct them. Advocating for deeper empathy and responsiveness, Ovul stresses the importance of tuning into emotional tones and perspectives beyond words. She highlights this skill's relevance in personal and professional realms, particularly on social media, underscoring the necessity for genuine engagement and effective communication strategies in impression management.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we welcome Ovul Sezer, Assistant Professor at Cornell University, who blends her roles as a behavioral scientist and stand-up comedian to investigate "impression mismanagement." Ovul's academic path shifted from mathematics to behavioral science amid the 2008 financial crisis, deeply influenced by behavioral economics. She highlights the synergy between analyzing digital interactions and traditional social science, applying her mathematical skills to decipher large datasets from social platforms. Ovul's research focuses on common errors in impression management and explores how these vary across different cultural and demographic contexts, offering insights into optimizing social interactions.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Jeff Weiss recounts the impact of the West Point Negotiation Project. The course started as a practical negotiation course and became a pivotal part of army doctrine. This episode highlights Jeff's deep personal fulfillment derived from his involvement, emphasizing how the project equipped soldiers with critical negotiation skills for high-stakes situations. Throughout the discussion, the narrative explores the application of strategic negotiation techniques in various challenging environments, advocating for purposeful, creative approaches over reactive tactics. The insights uncover that disciplined preparation and genuine engagement are key to achieving substantive outcomes in both military and business contexts.  

This podcast episode of NEGOTIATEx features Jeff Weiss, a seasoned expert in strategic negotiations with roles at Mass General Brigham, and contributions to the Harvard Negotiation Project. Jeff shares insights from his mentorship by Roger Fisher, highlighting critical lessons from Fisher's WWII experiences and their applications in global conflict management. The discussion also explores essential negotiation skills such as managing perceptions, building trust, and fostering creativity, alongside strategies for overcoming power imbalances and navigating complex negotiations effectively. Additionally, Jeff emphasizes the importance of preparation and perspective in achieving successful negotiation outcomes, using personal anecdotes and broader implications for strategic negotiations within organizations.  

Welcome to the NEGOTIATEx podcast, where Sakshi Arora and Ashna Sikri explore the transformative process of unlearning for personal and professional growth. This episode dives into the importance of dismantling outdated beliefs and adopting new, empowering perspectives. They discuss strategies such as using positive language, embracing self-affirmations, and leveraging community support to sustain wellness habits. The conversation highlights intrinsic motivation and outlines a comprehensive framework for developing personalized wellness routines. Tune in to learn how to foster a holistic approach to well-being, tailored to individual readiness and autonomy, and drive a proactive shift in mindset and habits.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Sakshi Arora, a professor and health coach, shares her journey from coping with autoimmune disorders to developing strategies for preventing employee burnout in tech. Her method involves an engineering approach to wellness, utilizing data to tailor programs that enhance well-being. Joining her is Ashna Sikri, a strategist focused on managing ADHD in the tech industry, who discusses the benefits of Sakshi's program in building her emotional resilience. Together, they explore the impact of personalized wellness programs and advocate for a supportive, empathetic approach to building professional environments.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Lenn introduces the POLE acronym, representing Positivity, Ownership, Logistics, and Expertise, which guides effective management. He contrasts the supportive, family-like culture of the workshop with typical business environments, comparing its camaraderie to military solidarity. Additionally, the discussion includes the impact of minor changes on morale and operational innovations like the “roof run” system for efficient Christmas Eve deliveries. Lenn also highlights Santa's empathetic leadership and inclusive approach, stressing the importance of adhering to the organization's core mission. Finally, he draws parallels with his experiences at Disney, emphasizing the universal appeal of joy and opportunity in leadership.  

This episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast features Lenn Millbower, a former Disney training leader and founder of Offbeat Training, LLC. He is renowned for his Disney-inspired adult learning techniques that enhance business operations. Lenn's career spans over three decades, during which he applied his diverse skills as a magician, musician, and educator to revolutionize corporate training and leadership. His innovative approach combines entertainment with practicality, leading to significant organizational improvements. In his latest book, “The Santa System: 10 Leadership Lessons from the North Pole,” Lenn draws parallels between Santa's workshop and effective business strategies, emphasizing creativity, teamwork, and a strong mission-driven culture. Overall, the discussion delves into how these principles can be applied to enhance employee engagement, leadership effectiveness, and overall organizational success.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Damali Peterman explores the differences between implicit and explicit biases in negotiations, as described in her book, “Negotiating While Black.” She also explains how unconscious biases, or implicit biases, can hinder essential skills like empathy, while explicit biases are recognizable and equally harmful. Additionally, Damali emphasizes the importance of authenticity and leveraging personal strengths to enhance negotiation outcomes. She offers strategies for effective information exchange and managing biases, highlighting the need for preparation and adaptability. This episode also covers handling intense prejudices and advocating for diversity, empowering listeners to navigate complex negotiation scenarios with confidence and insight.

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we welcome Damali Peterman, a distinguished lawyer and expert in alternative dispute resolution with two decades of experience. Founder and CEO of Breakthrough ADR and Damali Law, and author of "Negotiating While Black," Damali shares pivotal experiences shaping her negotiation expertise. From professional challenges, familial dynamics, to negotiations surrounding her book, she reveals how diverse roles and identities have influenced her tactics. Damali also discusses the evolution of her companies and her significant contributions to global peace efforts and dispute resolution, emphasizing the role of emotional complexity in negotiations across various sectors. She delves into the essence of effective, culturally aware negotiation strategies and the importance of elevating diverse voices in negotiation literature.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Bryan Price discusses the transition from academic to leadership development, critiquing current training for lacking hands-on experience and being limited to high performers. He advocates for “Green Platoon”-like, low-stakes training environments in corporations to build skills without the fear of failure. He emphasizes structured, measurable programs, like those at the Buccino Leadership Institute, and advocates for internal development over outsourcing. Bryan also extends these strategies to athletic training, emphasizing mental resilience for high-pressure situations and ongoing mental updates, akin to software upgrades, for personal and professional growth.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we delve into the expansive career of Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Bryan Price. A West Point graduate and founder of Top Mental Game, LLC, Price's career spans from piloting Apache helicopters to leading the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point, where he also taught and published work on counterterrorism. He now leverages his military and academic expertise to enhance leadership across various sectors, emphasizing adaptability and effective communication. His insights address the complexities of transitioning from military to civilian roles, the power of storytelling in leadership, and the universal need for mental resilience across diverse leadership landscapes.

In this episode of the NEGOTATEx podcast, Diana McLain Smith emphasizes the importance of community responsibility and collective action in overcoming societal challenges. She highlights successful grassroots efforts across the US aimed at bridging divides and reducing polarization. Exploring forces that deepen societal splits, including historical hierarchies and cultural biases, she stresses the need for understanding these dynamics to progress. Additionally, Diana critiques sensationalism in the media, proposing the "Engage model" for solution-focused reporting. Through historical and modern examples, she shows how communities can unite for inclusivity and prosperity, urging listeners to actively participate in shaping a more empathetic and united society.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we explore the extensive career and insights of Diana McLain Smith, who has championed systemic change across various domains for over 35 years.Starting from political activism, Diana transitioned into organizational learning under mentors like Chris Argyris, influencing her approach to managing conflict and fostering adaptive environments. Her discussion delves into the power of personal agency in effecting systemic change, drawing parallels between historical and contemporary societal challenges. Lastly, Diana emphasizes the need for individual and collective responsibility in addressing deep societal divides and building resilience amidst political and social turmoil.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Kimberly Mlinaz delves into effective negotiation strategies, focusing on cultural awareness and strategic preparation. She explains that a negotiator's tone often mirrors feelings of disadvantage rather than hostility, underscoring the importance of setting clear objectives and taking breaks to stay focused. Kimberly also draws on Geert Hofstede's research to highlight the vast diversity in negotiation practices across different cultures, emphasizing the need for respect and understanding of varying business and cultural norms. Furthermore, she discusses the concept of BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement), demonstrating its crucial role in improving negotiation outcomes by effectively understanding and leveraging alternative options.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we are joined by Kimberly Mlinaz, a Juris Doctorate holder with a chemical engineering background who leads negotiation and dispute resolution at the Department of the Air Force. Kimberly discusses her shift from engineering to conflict management, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving in various fields. She emphasizes the role of effective conflict management in large organizations, noting that well-handled disagreements can drive innovation and adaptability. Exploring concepts like the "Ladder of Inference" and collaborative negotiation, Kimberly provides valuable insights on resolving disputes and boosting workplace productivity by understanding diverse perspectives and managing emotions.

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we explore the extensive career and insights of Diana McLain Smith, who has championed systemic change across various domains for over 35 years. Starting from political activism, Diana transitioned into organizational learning under mentors like Chris Argyris, influencing her approach to managing conflict and fostering adaptive environments. Her discussion delves into the power of personal agency in effecting systemic change, drawing parallels between historical and contemporary societal challenges. Lastly, Diana emphasizes the need for individual and collective responsibility in addressing deep societal divides and building resilience amidst political and social turmoil.

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Caitlin Meredith offers valuable insights on navigating personal and professional transitions, such as moving or job switches. She explains the importance of setting realistic goals, celebrating small victories, and recognizing the emotional toll transitions can take. Caitlin also shares practical advice on conflict mediation for managers, highlighting the value of active listening and the need for external mediators in complex situations. Additionally, she discusses the role of humor in easing tension during conflicts and the power of open communication. Caitlin concludes by sharing her podcast's origin story, which is aimed at making financial education more accessible and engaging for women.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we are joined by Caitlin Meredith, a mediator, trainer, and conflict coach. Caitlin shares insights from her diverse career, spanning work with Doctors Without Borders, the criminal justice system, and private mediation. She also discusses her "321 Approach" for navigating difficult conversations, emphasizing empathy, listening, and problem-solving. Additionally, Caitlin highlights the importance of curiosity and vulnerability in building trust and collaboration, while also addressing the challenges of overcoming the instinct to immediately solve problems. Her experiences offer valuable lessons on adapting communication strategies in both personal and professional environments.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, The Value Negotiator, Glin Bayley emphasizes the importance of internal alignment in organizations for successful negotiations. She highlights how misaligned objectives within teams can erode value, urging businesses to strengthen their internal negotiation skills. Glin discusses strategies for emotional control during negotiations, using her "Joker" and "Ace" frameworks to manage impulsive reactions. She also talks about the importance of planning the implementation stage of negotiations during the negotiation process itself to ensure that value is achieved. Additionally, Glin introduces "Annie," an AI tool that enhances the negotiation process. Finally, she advises individuals and organizations to align their identity and values with negotiation goals for long-term success.

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Glin Bayley, known as "The Value Negotiator," shares her journey from a finance executive to an executive coach. With a focus on self-leadership, Glin highlights how personal beliefs can limit negotiation potential. She introduces her VALUE framework, which emphasizes creating mutual value and is applicable across various negotiation contexts. Glin also discusses her upcoming book, The Negotiation Playbook, designed for negotiators at any stage. Additionally, the conversation covers the importance of preparation, the impact of gender dynamics on negotiation styles, and the significance of understanding individual negotiation profiles for effective outcomes.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Keld Jensen breaks down how to approach seemingly "non-negotiable" points in negotiations, revealing that many can be flexible if the underlying reasons are understood. He highlights active listening as a vital tool for uncovering these reasons and improving the negotiation process. Keld also elaborates on the importance of conducting post-negotiation audits and using strategic checklists to refine future negotiations. Additionally, he discusses the challenges of managing compliance after contracts are signed, critiques cost-over-quality procurement practices, and introduces the "ultimate level" of negotiation mastery. Finally, Keld stresses the global impact of teaching negotiation on people's ability to communicate, collaborate, and solve problems across cultures and industries.  

In this insightful episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Keld Jensen returns to discuss his latest publication, "The Elements of Negotiation." This book introduces a more hands-on toolkit for negotiators. He underscores the importance of nonverbal communication, enriched by his personal experiences and academic research, as pivotal for successful negotiations. Additionally, Keld discusses the crucial role of body language, continuous training, and mathematical strategies, emphasizing the need for ongoing education. He also explores cultural sensitivity in international negotiations and the advanced role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in refining negotiation skills, offering a comprehensive approach to mastering the art of negotiation.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Danielle Gilbert provides key insights into hostage negotiations and global security. She discusses the complexities of Brittney Griner's release from Russia and comments on the ongoing Israeli negotiations with Hamas. Furthermore, Danielle critiques the risks of military hostage recovery operations, advocating instead for diplomatic approaches. Drawing from her research on Colombia's civil war, she explores the evolving tactics of hostage-taking. This episode also highlights the importance of negotiation across various sectors in life and the challenges that confront us. Danielle offers career advice for those interested in hostage diplomacy, both academically and professionally.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we are joined by Danielle Gilbert, an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Northwestern University, specializing in international security and hostage dynamics. Danielle discusses her research on international hostage situations influenced by events like the rise of the Islamic State and Boko Haram kidnappings. She examines "rebel kidnapping" tactics, government hostage recovery policies, and the concept of "hostage diplomacy", highlighting a couple of detention cases in Russia. Additionally, Danielle addresses misconceptions around "no concessions" policies and the role of media and private sectors in shaping public opinion and outcomes. Her insights reveal the complex interplay of ethical dilemmas and strategic decisions in managing international hostage crises.

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Elaine Lin Hering, a renowned facilitator and author, deepens her exploration of silence's impact on professional and personal communication. She discusses how leaders unintentionally suppress others and examines the cultural and systemic forces that promote such dynamics. Additionally, Elaine offers practical advice for fostering open dialogues in the workplace and stresses on the importance of clear communication of norms and process management. She also addresses the role of emotional awareness in effective communication and concludes with insights on how embracing authenticity enhances leadership and influence, empowering individuals to lead more fulfilling lives.  

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, communication and conflict management expert Elaine Lin Hering delves into her transformative journey from aspiring litigator to global leadership development specialist. She also discusses her book Unlearning Silence, which challenges the damaging effects of silence in both professional and personal realms. Additionally, Elaine underscores the need for creating workplace environments that encourage open dialogue while exploring the deep-rooted societal and structural forces that perpetuate silence. Her insights champion a mindful approach to deciding when to speak, ultimately cultivating more authentic and effective communication across all areas of life.

In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, Nolan and Aram continue their discussion with Mark Graham. They talk about common misconceptions and essential skills in negotiation. Mark emphasizes that conflict is inevitable and warns against emotional reactions. Additionally, he identifies three main challenges in teaching negotiation: managing emotions, understanding cognitive biases, and avoiding positional bargaining. Utilizing the Harvard Negotiation Project's methods, Mark highlights practical applications through class mediation exercises. Mark also discusses his collaboration with mediator Georgia Shaver on complex international issues, such as in Syria. He advocates for interest-based negotiation, emphasizing the importance of preparation and understanding the concept of BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement).  

Welcome to the NEGOTIATEx podcast! We are joined by Colonel (Ret.) Mark Graham, an educator with 26 years at the University of Maryland teaching leadership, negotiation, and conflict resolution. With 27 years in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's Corps, Mark has handled complex legal challenges globally. He shares his journey from high school debater to military legal expert and educator, emphasizing the importance of professional negotiation training. Mark recounts strategic negotiations during his military service, highlighting his adaptability and expertise in managing crises. Join us to gain invaluable insights from Mark's extensive career and experiences.  

In this NEGOTIATEx episode, Nolan and Aram continue their discussion with Melissa Fortunato, a retired FBI special agent. Melissa emphasizes active listening in negotiation, highlighting Stephen Covey's principle of seeking first to understand and humorously compares negotiations with her teenage daughters to those with the Taliban. She shares strategies for silent negotiations, like using intermediaries, and discusses effective questioning and self-reflection. Melissa also addresses adapting crisis negotiation skills to business consulting, the role of mindset and rapport in high-stakes negotiations, and balancing AI integration with human connection. The episode concludes by underscoring deep learning and consistent practice in mastering negotiation skills.  

In the latest episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, hosts Nolan and Aram are joined by Melissa Fortunato, a retired FBI special agent with over 23 years of experience. Melissa's unique journey from a counselor and social worker to an FBI crisis negotiator is explored, highlighting her background in psychology as a valuable asset in her role. She shares insights into the complexities of her work, including a challenging kidnapping negotiation in Afghanistan. Melissa also discusses her post-FBI career as a negotiation and conflict resolution trainer and the founder of Alchemy-Team. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of patience, strategic assessment, and effective communication in successful negotiations.