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.