When pressure rises, your instinct may be to take control, push harder, and force a decision. But the harder you push, the more resistance you can create.
AJ sits down with former FBI hostage negotiator and Hostage Rescue Team operator Kyle to explore how to stay calm, think clearly, and influence people in high-stakes situations. Drawing on his role negoti ... Show More
Oct 2
You Were Trained to Be Invisible | Social Intelligence Briefing
The habits that helped you succeed early in your career can become the same habits that keep you invisible later. AJ and John break down how approval seeking evolves from a useful behavior into an identity. Working hard, following the rules, proving yourself, and waiting for reco ... Show More
12m 32s
Feb 2022
TSSL - Episode 19 - More Great Tips for Talking to People!
Once again we are just talking shop. We talk about body language, barriers to communication (from People Skills by Robert Bolton), seeing things at gray as opposed to everything being black & white, overcoming the fear of rejections and much more. Music by Wax Mustang - Powerball ... Show More
28m 10s
Jul 2025
How to Talk to Difficult People: Proven Strategies to Stop Arguments & Feel Connected Again
<p>This episode is your playbook for having saner, smarter, and more successful conversations, even when you disagree. </p><p>If every dinner turns into a debate… </p><p>If you feel like you're having the same argument on repeat… </p><p>If you're avoiding certain topics, work eve ... Show More
1h 11m
Dec 2024
How to Never Struggle with Small Talk
Small talk can be so awkward.
You’re trying to fill the silence, but the conversation just isn’t clicking. What do you do?
In this episode, I’m sharing 3 ways to make small talk feel natural, engaging, and even enjoyable. You’ll learn how to ask better questions, keep the convers ... Show More
15m 11s
Jun 2024
207. How to have better conversations
Conversations seem like they should be the easiest thing in the world, but we all know that sometimes that is not the case! Mental distractions, running out of things to talk about, feeling a bit off, all some of the roadblocks we face. In today's episode we break down FIVE tips ... Show More
28m 41s
Jul 2025
How to Handle Difficult Conversations
<p>Avoiding tough conversations might feel easier, but it often holds us back.</p><br><p>In this episode, Jake and Damian unpack why leaning into difficult conversations is essential for growth, connection, and real leadership. With insights from guests like James Vowles, Emily M ... Show More
23m 15s
May 2025
How to Get What You Want Every Time: 3 Steps to Negotiate Anything With Anyone
<p>Right now, there’s something you want. </p><p>Maybe you need help at home, more support from your partner, or it’s time to set a boundary at work. </p><p>But you’re avoiding the conversation. Why? Because it feels hard. You don’t want conflict, you don’t want to upset anyone, ... Show More
1h 24m