In this episode, we dive into the powerful world of investigative interviewing and business communication with expert Dave Thompson. We uncover the most common myths and misconceptions that derail conversations and reveal proven strategies for building genuine rapport, gathering reliable information, and driving better outcomes. Exploring the roles of empathy, listening, and effective questioning, we learn how to elevate our leadership and communication skills in any setting. 

Timestamps: 

• (00:06) - Michael Reddington welcomes back David Thompson and introduces the episode.
• (02:00) - Michael Reddington explains the goal of obtaining more information, not just catching lies.
• (06:20) - David Thompson identifies myths derailing communication and interviews.
• (08:00) - David Thompson debunks the myth that good communicators talk the most.
• (11:37) - Michael Reddington explains how great leaders focus on listening.
• (17:15) - David Thompson discusses the power of empathy and why it's strategic, not soft.
• (25:43) - David Thompson illustrates why behavior alone doesn't detect lies.
• (35:00) - David Thompson reveals how pressure creates compliant—not reliable—answers.
• (48:09) - Michael Reddington urges turning down the temperature in high-stress conversations.
• (51:03) - David Thompson stresses changing the goal from confession to gathering reliable information.

Links and Resources:

• Part 1 - Truthbetoldpodcast5 Communication Myths We Need to Stop Believing: From Interrogations to the Boardroom with Michael Reddington, CFI -
• Home - Wicklander-Zulawski
• Truth Be Told
• International Association of Interviewers
• David Thompson, CFI | LinkedIn

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we have the pleasure of exploring the science and strategy behind effective investigative interviewing and high-impact conversations with forensic linguist Dr. Luna Filipovic. We examine the powerful effects of language choice, cultural context, and question structure on truth-telling, memory, and cooperation in both legal and everyday scenarios. Together, we uncover actionable insights for improving accuracy and efficiency in any conversation, from business negotiations to personal interactions. Join us as we learn how to adapt our communication to foster trust, gather critical information, and avoid costly misunderstandings in this value-packed episode.

Timestamps:

• (00:00) - Introducing Dr. Luna Filipovic, forensic linguist and UC Davis professor.
• (03:32) - Dr. Filipovic explains why people choose to open up and talk.
• (06:41) - Discussing the risks and consequences of silence in interviews.
• (09:01) - Impact of language and context on memory and communication accuracy.
• (13:49) - Key considerations when interviewing bilingual individuals.
• (18:38) - The importance of using trained interpreters in investigations.
• (25:00) - Exploring the problems with complex and negative questions.
• (33:26) - Differences between confession-seeking and information-seeking approaches.
• (41:01) - How cultural backgrounds affect communication and witness responses.
• (50:37) - Balancing efficiency and accuracy in language techniques and interviews.

Links and Resources:

• Home - TACIT
• Luna Filipovic | LinkedIn

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of data analytics and emotions with guest Zoey Charif, exploring her unique framework for calculating love and relationship success. We learn how self worth, values, and personality traits shape both romantic and professional relationships, and discover practical strategies for fostering self awareness and making healthier decisions. Through real-life stories and proven research, we uncover actionable insights that empower us to build stronger connections with ourselves and others. Join us as we unlock the formula for meaningful relationships and personal fulfillment in this thought-provoking conversation.

Timestamps: 

• (00:00) - Introducing Zoey Charif and the concept of calculating love.
• (04:13) - Zoey Charif explains her framework for matching and admiration.
• (06:12) - Self worth is calculated through personal values.
• (09:38) - Importance of normalizing being single and building self worth.
• (11:00) - Self worth impacts all relationships, including business and community.
• (13:05) - Optimist and critic personalities affect relationship scores.
• (17:05) - Self awareness helps balance between optimism and criticism.
• (22:00) - Matching and mismatching values in relationships discussed.
• (27:04) - Attraction versus compatibility as key relationship drivers.
• (39:28) - Staying out of extremes and working on self score is essential for fulfillment.

Links and Resources:

• Love Can, In Fact, Be Calculated: Charif, Zoey
• Home | Love Can

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kathy Wu to explore the transformative power of self-regulation and resilience in both teens and adults. We discover practical, evidence-based strategies for managing emotions, building stronger relationships, and fostering personal growth—whether we're parents, leaders, or simply looking to better understand ourselves. With insights grounded in real-life experiences and proven therapeutic approaches, we uncover the value of shifting from control to curiosity, engaging in empathic confrontation, and leveraging problems as powerful opportunities to grow. Walk away with actionable tools to positively impact your home, work, and community conversations.

Timestamps: 

• (00:06) - Introducing Dr. Kathy Wu and highlighting her background.
• (01:03) - Explaining the philosophy: problems as opportunities to grow.
• (04:13) - How challenges foster self-reflection and resilience.
• (08:19) - Tools for managing frustration and understanding emotions.
• (11:07) - Self-regulation as a lifelong process and muscle to flex.
• (13:04) - Overview of evidence-based modalities: CBT, ACT, and DBT.
• (17:19) - Importance of developing interpersonal skills and active listening.
• (22:14) - Practicing empathic confrontation and listening without judgment.
• (27:38) - Helping teenagers build self-regulation and validating emotions.
• (45:45) - Strategies for healthy technology use and family relationships.

Links and Resources:

• The Self-Regulation Handbook for Teens and Young Adults: A Trauma-Informed Guide to Fostering Personal Resilience and Enhancing Interpersonal Skills
• Counseling | Dr. Kathy Wu | United States
• 
  

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we journey into the transformative lessons drawn from martial arts, personal growth, and mastering our own potential with Emmanuel Manolakakis. We explore the power of distilling real wisdom from collected knowledge, the significance of patience and self-control, and the remarkable difference between happiness and fulfillment. Through engaging stories and practical advice, we uncover how embracing pressure, focusing on what we can control, and developing our authentic selves can lead to lasting success—both on and off the mat.

Timestamps: 

• (00:00) - Michael Reddington introduces Emmanuel Manolakakis
• (04:09) - The difference between collecting knowledge and distilling wisdom.
• (07:02) - Importance of making personal decisions instead of matching others' bad choices.
• (10:04) - Contrast between depth of knowledge in the past and current information overload.
• (14:42) - Emmanuel Manolakakis discusses mastery as a journey, not a destination.
• (19:28) - How mastery requires patience, adaptability, and focusing on what you can control.
• (27:56) - Developing patience through teaching, martial arts, and life experiences.
• (34:57) - Practical tips for building patience using cold immersion and fasting.
• (41:58) - The value of calmness and responsibility, with lessons from archery.
• (50:42) - Overview of Emmanuel Manolakakis's book and the pursuit of fulfillment over happiness.

Links and Resources:

• HOME | My Site
• Eudaimonia: The Highest Human Good: Manolakakis, Emmanuel

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we have the pleasure of exploring the power of authentic communication and strategic storytelling with marketing expert Cassandra D'Alessio. We dive into the importance of taking control of our own narrative, differentiating between branding, sales, and marketing, and infusing authenticity into all facets of our messaging. Through Cassandra’s practical advice and real-world examples, we discover how to turn words into strategy, build trust, and create lasting relationships in both business and personal conversations. Join us as we uncover valuable lessons on patience, consistency, and audience understanding that elevate our communication and help us stand out in a noisy marketplace.

Timestamps: 

(00:00) - Introducing Cassandra D’Alessio and her expertise in B2B marketing and branding.

(04:09) - Importance of taking control of your own story online.

(06:02) - Balancing authenticity without sounding salesy or cheesy.

(09:54) - Clarifying the differences between sales, brand, and marketing.

(13:44) - Explaining why consistency in messaging matters across all channels.

(16:11) - Turning words into effective communication strategy.

(22:21) - How writing shapes Cassandra’s communication approach and perception.

(34:21) - Lessons from Cassandra’s book on launching a business as a female entrepreneur.

(41:30) - Teaching college students and applying those lessons to business clients.

(46:22) - Role of imagery in stopping the scroll and engaging audiences online.

Links and Resources:

• Cassandra D'Alessio | This Won't Be Pretty - https://www.cassandradalessio.com/
• Next Page Brand Strategies - https://www.turnthenextpage.com/
• Cassandra D'Alessio, M.A. | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassandra-dalessio/

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we dive into the science and strategy of decision-making with expert decision coach Greg Dinkin. We explore how focusing on decisions rather than outcomes can transform our approach to challenges, drawing on lessons from poker, executive coaching, and practical psychology. Through empowering questions, forward-thinking strategies, and real-world examples, we discover the mindset and habits that set winners apart. Join us as we uncover actionable tools for making better choices, handling pressure, and creating lasting success in both our professional and personal lives.

Timestamps:

• (00:00) - Michael introduces Greg Dinkin, decision coach and poker champion.
• (03:08) - Greg explains what it means to be a decision coach.
• (04:56) - Discussing the mantra “decisions, not outcomes.”
• (09:56) - How to plan moves ahead in decision making and negotiation.
• (13:30) - Preparing for high-pressure situations by deciding in advance.
• (18:25) - The power and strategy of asking the right questions.
• (22:04) - Michael and Greg discuss the crucial role of listening in decision processes.
• (27:38) - Greg details how context and motive influence observing behavior.
• (34:23) - Importance of debriefing and accountability after outcomes.
• (35:31) - Greg shares the “thermostat vs thermometer” winner’s mindset concept.

Links and Resources:

• Hire TedX speaker Home - Greg Dinkin
• Greg Dinkin | LinkedIn

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of humor in the workplace with comedian, author, and consultant Andrew Tarvin. We explore the science and art behind humor, distinguish between comedy and everyday levity, and reveal seven essential humor competencies that anyone can learn to drive engagement and effectiveness. From practical techniques like the comic triple to strategies for reading the room and staying appropriate, we uncover valuable ways that humor boosts problem-solving, increases connection, and creates a true competitive advantage. Join us as we unlock actionable insights to elevate our professional relationships, productivity, and everyday interactions through the skillful use of humor.

Timestamps: 

• (00:00) - Introducing Andrew Tarvin, comedian and workplace humor expert.
• (04:54) - Andrew explains why humor is a valuable professional skill.
• (09:19) - Difference between humor and comedy in the workplace.
• (11:06) - Humor as a learnable skill and Andrew’s journey to being funnier.
• (14:55) - Seven humor personas and competencies discussed.
• (19:33) - Importance of practicing humor safely and learning from feedback.
• (25:20) - Research on appropriate versus inappropriate workplace humor.
• (31:32) - Applying humor as a problem-solving tool.
• (39:43) - The four styles of humor and workplace appropriateness.
• (58:23) - Andrew’s “one smile per hour” strategy for daily humor.

Links and Resources:

• humor speaker | engineer | comedian - (an)drew tarvin | Founder of Humor That Works | Speaker, Author, Consultant
• Andrew Tarvin | LinkedIn
• 
  

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we dive into the essential listening and communication skills that truly make a difference in challenging conversations, with insights from retired police inspector, crisis negotiator, and cognitive behavioral therapist Andy Fairie. We explore the powerful distinction between listening and problem-solving, practical techniques for de-escalating heightened emotions, and the art of earning the right to have our say. Through real-world examples and actionable frameworks, we discover how their approach can enhance understanding, build trust, and transform how we connect with others—even in the most intense moments. Join us as we uncover practical tools to improve both our personal and professional conversations in this insightful and value-packed discussion.

Timestamps: 

• (00:00) - Introducing guest Andy Fairie, retired police inspector and author.
• (04:50) - Why "listening is not problem solving" in crisis and everyday life.
• (08:23) - Example of crisis negotiation and power of simply listening.
• (13:56) - Building trust through small gestures and genuine connection.
• (16:01) - Pitfalls of telling people to "calm down" or "I understand."
• (17:55) - Emotional labeling as a tool for de-escalation.
• (25:25) - Andy explains the SIMPLE framework for effective listening.
• (38:04) - How to use "I when because" statements to express impact.
• (45:05) - Importance and technique of practicing breathing for calm communication.
• (51:16) - Research on empathy in policing and the risk of compassion fatigue.

Links and Resources:

• Andy Fairie | LinkedIn
• Amazon.com: Listening Skills for Effective Policing eBook : Fairie, Andy: Kindle Store

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we delve into the science-backed techniques of investigative interviewing with Christian Corey, a seasoned police captain and expert in eliciting the truth. We explore how open-ended questions, strategic evidence disclosure, and disciplined listening transform the way we gather information—not just in law enforcement, but in business and everyday life.

Uncover practical strategies to foster trust, avoid common interview pitfalls, and build rapport, empowering them to solve problems and guide conversations with confidence. 

Timestamps: 

• (00:00) - Introducing guest Christian Corey.
• (04:57) - Christian explains the power of big free narrative questions.
• (06:31) - Discussing the importance of allowing yourself to be surprised and staying curious.
• (08:17) - How to frame open-ended questions for better information gathering.
• (10:00) - The patience and control gained by letting people talk freely.
• (12:25) - The value of listening to lies and using them strategically.
• (17:26) - Christian defines the investigator’s mindset as following evidence and embracing adaptability.
• (21:44) - Red teaming explained and its role in challenging assumptions.
• (32:30) - Planning strategic evidence disclosure and maximizing information from interviews.
• (41:44) - The benefits of active listening and building rapport during interviews.

Links and Resources:

• Home - National Policing Institute
• Christian Cory | LinkedIn
• Home | National Institute of Justice
• Project Aletheia – A Collaborative Center for Improving the Science and Practice of Interrogation

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
• Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media