I See What You're Saying

Most of us were never actually taught how to communicate with other adults.

We were conditioned to talk as kids, then we grew up and started leading teams, negotiating agreements, parenting, coaching, and managing high-stakes conversations.

In this solo episode, I’m introducing the Disciplined Listening Method and walking through what it is, why I created it, and how you can start applying it right away.

This method is built from behavioral science, interview and interrogation research, and real-world business communication. But at its core, it is simple.

Create the communication experience the other person needs.

When you do that consistently, you reduce resistance. You build trust. You create commitment instead of compliance.

In this episode, I break down what makes a conversation high impact and the seven core behaviors that help you prepare, engage, and follow up with discipline.

If you lead people, influence decisions, negotiate agreements, or want stronger relationships at home and at work, this is the foundation.

Chapters

(00:00) - Why This Series Matters

(03:45) - What Is the Disciplined Listening Method

(07:50) - Defining High Impact Conversations

(12:15) - The Psychology of Commitment

(16:30) - Three Core Communication Guidelines

(22:45) - The Seven Behaviors

(27:35) - Building Trust Equity

Connect with Michael

1. Website: https://michaelreddington.com
2. https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelreddington/

Grab the Book!

1. The Disciplined Listening Method: How A Certified Forensic Interviewer Unlocks Hidden Value in Every Conversation

Sponsor Links:

1. InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
2. Humintell: https://www.humintell.com/
3. Enter Code INQUASIVE25 for 25% discount on your online training purchase.
4. International Association of Interviewers: https://www.certifiedinterviewer.com/

Podcast Production Services by https://everyword.media

In this episode, we have the privilege of learning from Marine Corps veteran and leadership expert Codey Gandy as he joins us to unpack the core principles of disciplined leadership. We explore the value of humility, ownership, and effective communication, diving into practical strategies for leading teams, managing stress, and building a strong culture at work and home. From actionable interview tips to insights on coaching and parenting, we discover how everyday decisions and self-reflection can shape our leadership impact. Tune in as we unlock valuable lessons that empower us to become better leaders and create healthier, more resilient teams in every area of our lives.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) - Introducing Codey Gandy.
2. (04:27) - Defining leadership entitlement and what leaders owe their teams.
3. (08:32) - Key takeaways from Marine Corps experience.
4. (13:06) - Importance of problem-solving skills over technical expertise in leadership.
5. (21:20) - Training and strategies for communicating effectively under stress.
6. (27:58) - Breaking down clear communication: mission, why, expectations, parameters.
7. (33:41) - The "readback" technique to ensure mutual understanding in conversations.
8. (40:01) - Managing emotional responses and ego during stressful situations.
9. (46:03) - Differentiating coaching, teaching, and mentoring approaches.
10. (56:44) - Handling promotions and leading peers with higher or equal experience.

Links and Resources:

1. Codey Gandy | LinkedIn
2. Echelon Front | Leadership Development & Training

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode of I See What You’re Saying, Michael Reddington sits down with former U.S. Secret Service agent Brad Beeler to break down what it really takes to get people to open up and tell the truth.

Drawing from years of high-stakes interviews, Brad shares practical lessons on disciplined listening, separating emotions from observations, and avoiding the common traps of snap judgments. Together, they explore how trust is built not through pressure or authority, but through preparation, empathy, and intentionally designed environments.

From law enforcement interviews to leadership conversations, this episode reveals how small shifts in mindset, presence, and approach can dramatically change the quality of information you receive—and the relationships you build.

If you want more honest conversations, better intelligence, and stronger human connection, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) – Introducing Brad Beeler and his background in the Secret Service
2. (01:13) – Separating emotions from observations in interviews
3. (04:22) – Learning from interview mistakes and missed signals
4. (06:42) – Becoming who the other person needs you to be
5. (08:18) – The danger of assigning “horns or halos” too quickly
6. (16:26) – Practical ways to sharpen listening and observation skills
7. (22:09) – Creating safety so people feel comfortable telling the truth
8. (29:43) – How environment design (even meals) builds rapport
9. (38:04) – Touch, personal space, and handshakes in professional settings
10. (47:18) – Using intelligence ethically to deepen connection and trust

Links and Resources:

1. Tell Me Everything – Brad Beeler
2. Brad Beeler | LinkedIn

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode of I See What You’re Saying, we explore how human-centered design and disciplined listening intersect to solve the right problems with educator and design thinking instigator David Phillips. Together, we unpack why finding problems worth solving matters more than rushing to solutions, and how curiosity, observation, and patience fuel better communication, collaboration, and innovation.

David shares practical frameworks for applying design thinking beyond product development, revealing how leaders can uncover hidden constraints, earn candid feedback, and create environments where people feel safe to think, speak, and contribute honestly. From the dangers of data delusion to the power of prototyping, beginner’s mindset, and asking better questions, this conversation highlights how listening is the foundation of meaningful progress in business and human relationships.

Join us as we examine why innovation is a contact sport, how to get comfortable being wrong, and what it really takes to design solutions that people will adopt, trust, and sustain.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) Introduction: Why Solving the Right Problem Matters
2. (04:10) What Human-Centered Design Really Means
3. (09:00) Why Data Fails Without Context
4. (12:55) The Danger of Solving the Wrong Problem Well
5. (16:20) A Practical Design Thinking Framework
6. (20:00) Why Innovation Requires Behavior Change
7. (24:15) Prototyping to Get Honest Feedback
8. (29:00) Learning to Get Comfortable Being Wrong
9. (33:00) Ego, Identity, and Resistance to Change
10. (37:00) Why Innovation Is a Contact Sport
11. (45:00) Asking Better Questions to Drive Better Decisions
12. (50:20) How Environment Shapes Human Behavior
13. (58:30) Finding Problems Worth Solving
14. (01:05:20) Final Takeaways and Where to Learn More

Guest Information

1. David Phillips | LinkedIn
2. Faster Glass – Innovation Training, Facilitation, and Consulting -

Resources Mentioned in the Episode

1. Scout Mindset – Julia Galef (TEDx Talk) Why You Think You’re Right — Even If You’re Wrong
2. “Connecting the Dots” – Malcolm Gladwell, The New Yorker (March 10, 2003) An exploration of puzzles vs. mysteries and why some problems resist simple solutions.
3. What’s Your Problem? – Thomas Wedell-Wedellsborg A practical guide to problem (re)framing and identifying the right challenges to solve.

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of self-awareness and self-command in communication and leadership with mental wellness strategist Kasey Franco. Together, we uncover practical tools for managing mindset, regulating the nervous system, and turning negative emotions into productive growth. By examining actionable techniques like intention-setting and the Accept or Convert framework, we reveal how anyone can foster clarity, resilience, and authentic presence in both business and personal conversations. Join us to discover valuable strategies for elevating our mental fitness and unlocking true connection in every interaction.

Timestamps:

1. (00:06) - Introducing Kasey Franco, mental wellness strategist.
2. (03:31) - Kasey Franco shares her personal turning point for prioritizing mindset and nervous system awareness.
3. (07:41) - Explaining the concept of self command and moving from autopilot to intentional presence.
4. (09:29) - Techniques for practicing presence, such as breath work, sensory focus, and intention setting.
5. (13:35) - Intention setting explained as a powerful tool to guide mindset and filter information.
6. (20:28) - Strategies to make nervousness and worry more productive rather than eliminating them.
7. (22:57) - Breaking down four types of mental messaging and identifying spam thoughts.
8. (26:29) - Recognizing how stress and nervousness manifest physically and how to respond with regulation techniques.
9. (30:16) - Highlighting the Accept or Convert tool for managing challenging situations productively.
10. (50:15) - Celebrating progress and sustaining long-term mental fitness through small, consistent wins.

Links and Resources:

1. Kasey Franco | LinkedIn
2. Well-Being Strategist & Neural Rewiring Coach
3. Kasey Franco Professional Profile

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we dive into the dynamic relationship between sales and negotiation with expert guest Ted Stephany. We uncover strategies for preparing to face professional buyers, mastering deal time engineering, and leveraging anchoring techniques to maximize outcomes. Through real-world examples and actionable insights, we learn how mindset, preparation, and value-driven conversations can unlock stronger negotiation results and build lasting professional credibility.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) - Michael Reddington introduces Ted Stephany.
2. (02:50) - Differences between sales and negotiation.
3. (07:22) - Preparing for professional buyers is discussed.
4. (10:12) - Importance of asking buyers about their process.
5. (16:12) - Mindset in negotiation and handling negative expectations.
6. (21:02) - Deal time engineering strategies are explained.
7. (25:08) - Anchoring tactics for negotiation are covered.
8. (34:28) - Controlling the pricing conversation and discount strategies.
9. (41:13) - The impact of pricing consistency on reputation.
10. (47:47) - Key negotiation planning points and making buyers champions.

Links and Resources:

1. Ted Stephany | LinkedIn
2. Ted Stephany | B2B SaaS Negotiations

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we have the opportunity to learn from Dre Baldwin as he shares his transformative journey from a high school benchwarmer to a professional athlete and successful business leader. We dive into the powerful relationship between structure, discipline, and presence, uncovering practical strategies for developing confidence and turning consistent effort into true dominance in our careers. Through stories of personal growth and actionable insights, we discover how programming our mindset and asking better questions can unlock untapped potential in both business and everyday life.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) - Michael Reddington introduces Dre Baldwin and previews episode topics.
2. (03:33) - Dre Baldwin explains unconscious communication.
3. (07:19) - Examples of context clues and perceptions in daily life.
4. (12:53) - Discipline and how it translates into dominance for business.
5. (14:07) - Dre Baldwin links discipline to structure, accountability, and sustained results.
6. (20:24) - Leading by example and embodying discipline for business success.
7. (26:35) - Dre's late start in basketball and journey to becoming a professional athlete.
8. (33:35) - Using marketing and self-promotion to overcome disadvantages.
9. (38:11) - The "third day" concept as the separator between amateurs and pros.
10. (46:42) - How better questions unlock discipline and drive mindset shifts.

Links and Resources:

1. http://ThirdDayBook.com
2. http://SalesDisciplineBook.com
3. Get Dre's #DailyMotivation texts: Text LIVE to 305.384.6894 or click http://www.DreAllDay.com/text
4. Power Presence Protocol: http://PowerPresenceProtocol.com

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we have the privilege of exploring the authentic meaning of the warrior spirit and tribal leadership principles with our guest, DJ Vanas. We examine the importance of service, community, and the wisdom of elders, while also discussing practical ways to harness our inner strength and create intentional rituals in everyday life. Learn how to apply these time-tested concepts to leadership, personal development, and building a supportive tribe both at work and at home.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) - Michael Reddington introduces DJ Vanas and previews the episode.
2. (03:19) - DJ Vanas explains the true role of a warrior in tribal culture.
3. (09:15) - Discussion of core tribal leadership principles beyond the warrior.
4. (12:07) - Importance of community, connection, and avoiding isolation.
5. (18:08) - Lessons learned from tribal elders.
6. (26:26) - The vital role of ceremony and ritual in building connection.
7. (31:07) - Modern ways to create everyday rituals and structure.
8. (38:39) - Techniques for drawing on personal inner strength.
9. (43:09) - Overview of six roles of tip of the spear leadership.
10. (56:03) - Where listeners can find DJ Vanas' books and connect further.

Links and Resources:

1. D.J. Vanas | LinkedIn
2. D. J. Vanas
3. The Warrior Within: Own Your Power to Serve, Fight, Protect, and Heal

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we have the opportunity to learn from Christian Meissner, a leading expert in credibility assessment and investigative interviewing. We uncover actionable strategies for assessing credibility, eliciting truthful information, and navigating resistance in high-impact conversations. From understanding the difference between knowledgeability and deception to practical techniques for building trust and rapport, every insight shared provides immense value for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills. Join us as we explore research-backed methods that empower us to ask stronger questions, listen more effectively, and uncover hidden value in all of our critical conversations.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) - Michael Reddington introduces Christian Meissner.
2. (01:15) - Differentiating credibility from knowledgeability in conversation.
3. (04:23) - Key considerations for assessing someone's credibility.
4. (08:51) - Why verbal cues matter more than nonverbal cues for truthfulness.
5. (15:08) - Techniques to help others access and share truthful memories.
6. (23:29) - Strategies to reduce resistance and build cooperation.
7. (27:04) - Topic steering methods using summaries and self-disclosure.
8. (34:45) - Exploring the main motivations behind resistance.
9. (43:36) - Constructive confrontation: evocation and empathy in tough conversations.
10. (60:23) - Quick tips for building trust and rapport, and episode wrap-up.

Links and Resources:

1. Applied Cognition Lab – Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, Iowa State University
2. Christian A. Meissner | LinkedIn

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media

In this episode, we dive into the key communication skills that set impactful leaders apart with expert guest Michael Delisser. We explore the crucial differences between self-awareness and self-perception, uncover common communication habits that hold leaders back, and learn actionable strategies for receiving feedback and turning data into insights. Through real-world examples and practical frameworks, we discover how to influence others, adapt to different personalities, and drive lasting results. By the end you’ll know how to strengthen relationships, lead effectively, and unlock your true leadership potential in any organizational setting.

Timestamps:

1. (00:00) - Michael Reddington welcomes Michael Delisser
2. (03:08) - Three key high-impact communication skills for leaders.
3. (06:11) - Common ineffective communication habits in leaders are discussed.
4. (08:45) - Exploration of why people interrupt and where those habits originate.
5. (12:24) - Difference between self awareness and self perception explained.
6. (14:46) - How to receive feedback and use it for self improvement.
7. (19:07) - The importance of balancing different personality types in teams.
8. (28:10) - Turning raw data into actionable insights.
9. (32:00) - The three means of persuasion based on Aristotle introduced.
10. (46:03) - Strategies for influencing without authority shared.

Links and Resources:

1. Michael deLisser | LinkedIn
2. de Lisser Leadership Consulting | leadership development consulting
3. Leadership Accelerators: High-Impact Communication Skills That Strengthen Relationships and Drive Results

Sponsor Links:

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

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media