Negotiators Podcast

Welcome to Monday Night Live

Derek Arden and welcome to Monday Night Live. This week we’re joined by an extraordinary leader and gentleman—Andrew Buxton, the former Chairman of Barclays Bank. I’ve had the pleasure (and once, the misfortune!) of being interviewed by Andrew early in my career. He turned me down for a job back then—but hey, we’ve all made decisions we laugh about later!”

In this episode, Andrew reflects on his incredible career in banking, global finance, and crisis leadership. From boardrooms in London to business trips in Bangkok, Andrew has seen it all—and tonight, he shares those stories with wisdom, humility, and plenty of insight.

Andrew begins by sharing his early life, touched by tragedy and shaped by resilience. His father was killed in World War II, and it was his Scottish stepfather—a director at Barclays—who encouraged him to join the bank. That decision set him on a path that would define his life.

He describes driving to Bangkok in the early 1960s for work—back when you could just cross borders with a wave and no visas. This spirit of adventure was tempered by loyalty; he stayed with Barclays for over four decades, rising through the ranks to become Chairman.

Andrew candidly discusses the pressures of being at the top of one of the world’s leading banks. “When you lead a large organization, it’s a 24/7 job,” he said, noting the toll it can take on family life.

He shares gripping stories, including his leadership during the collapse of Barings Bank. One weekend, while hosting a dinner in Suffolk, Andrew got the call: Barings was in trouble. What followed was a whirlwind of emergency meetings, investigations, and failed rescue attempts. He chaired a critical summit with all major UK banks, demonstrating calm leadership in a storm of uncertainty.

Yes, Andrew met Margaret Thatcher. No, she didn’t intimidate him—though he admits she was a bit too confident in her banking knowledge! We also discuss boardroom espionage and security: did Barclays really sweep rooms for bugs every morning? Andrew’s not sure—but wouldn’t be surprised.

One of his golden rules? “Meet people face-to-face.” 🤝 Even in our digital world, Andrew stresses the irreplaceable value of human connection in negotiation and relationship-building.

Andrew recounts the high-stakes rescue of Massey Ferguson in the 1980s, a global negotiation involving 100 banks. From Rome to Paris to London’s Dorchester Hotel, the scale and complexity were immense—but the outcome was successful.

His experience with corporate recovery continues today, where he consults for companies in trouble—usually at the request of friends rather than for profit. “I don’t look for trouble,” he says with a smile, “but sometimes it finds me.”

“Banking is about risk,” Andrew reminds us. “If you never make bad debts, you’re probably not taking the right risks.” But he’s always been guided by ethics, sound judgment, and a clear understanding of the systems from the ground up—starting his career behind the counter at Holland Park branch in London.

His advice to young people today?
“Do something you enjoy. Stick at it. Be straightforward.” ✨
And don’t hop jobs too quickly—stick around long enough to find out what really fits.

Perhaps most movingly, Andrew reflects on how his ambitions as a young man—to be a farmer—changed as he was swept into the world of international banking. He offers a candid acknowledgment that while his life was filled with professional success, it came with personal trade-offs, especially for his family.

Andrew’s stories are not just about banking—they’re about people, leadership, resilience, and learning from experience. His honesty and insight were a masterclass in what it means to lead with integrity.

🙏 Thank you for joining us on Monday Night Live. Don’t forget to like 👍, share 📤, and subscribe 🔔—and stay tuned for more conversations with inspiring leaders from around the globe!

#Leadership #Banking #Barclays #Negotiation #MondayNightLive #Wisdom #Inspiration #CareerTips

Welcome to Monday Night Live

What started on the very first day of lockdown as an experiment (to see if anyone would join via a Zoom link ) quickly grew into something much bigger.

That first evening, twelve people tuned in. Now, 250 broadcasts later, we’ve featured 198 remarkable leaders who generously agreed to be interviewed. The recordings are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and most podcast channels.

Welcome to Monday Night Live

Welcome to another insightful episode of and now a leading expert on mnday Night Live! I’m Derek Arden, and this week, I’m joined by the fantastic Michael Dodd – a seasoned journalist, foreign correspondent, Media communication and interview techniques.

Michael’s career kicked off in Sydney with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), where he was trained in the art of asking “blowtorch on the belly” questions – tough, persistent inquiries designed to put real pressure on political figures. This phrase, coined by an Australian politician, became the backbone of Michael’s journalistic style, pushing for truth and accountability.

In our conversation, Michael shares his journey from covering politics in Canberra to witnessing the historic revolutions of Eastern Europe, including the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Velvet Revolution in Prague. He tells a captivating story of interviewing Václav Havel, the Czech dissident-playwright who would later become president. Havel’s masterful response to a tough question about his political ambitions became a defining moment in Michael’s career and illustrates how great communicators can turn pointed questions into opportunities for impactful messaging.

As we shift to modern-day media dynamics, Michael offers a behind-the-scenes look at how journalists operate during high-stakes press conferences, like those with Prime Ministers or Presidents. He explains how competitive journalists, from Sky News to the BBC, often don’t coordinate their questions but instead aim to deliver the sharpest queries for their respective audiences and editors.

We also dive into Michael’s transition from journalism to media training. He now teaches business leaders, politicians, and even sports coaches how to respond to difficult questions with confidence and clarity. His approach is rooted in integrity – always advocating for honest and effective communication rather than evasiveness.

Michael introduces us to his golden formula, the ABCDE method, for crafting powerful responses to tough questions:

A: Answer the question (or acknowledge it if you can’t fully respond).
B: Bridge – smoothly transition to your key message.
C: Content – deliver your core message clearly and concisely.
D: Dangle – set up your example or supporting evidence.
E: Example – share a compelling story or data point to reinforce your message.
Throughout the session, Michael emphasizes the importance of preparation and truth, especially in an age where disinformation can easily sway public opinion. We touch on the rise of false narratives, citing figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk, and the challenges this poses for credible journalism. Michael underlines the critical role journalists play in combating misinformation and holding power to account – a responsibility that’s never been more vital.

We also discuss how these media dynamics affect leaders in business and sports. Michael shares anecdotes from his media training with rugby league teams and how captains and managers can apply the ABCDE formula to defuse criticism and refocus on positive actions, even under pressure from hostile media or frustrated fans.

From dissecting press conference tactics to reflecting on the wider implications of truth and integrity in public discourse, Michael brings a wealth of wisdom, wit, and practical advice to this conversation.

For those interested in learning more about Michael’s approach, he mentions his book, Great Answers to Tough Questions at Work, which dives deeper into his ABCDE strategy and how to stay composed and effective when the heat is on.

If you’re a business leader, media professional, or just someone keen to sharpen your communication skills, you won’t want to miss this masterclass.

👉 Check out Michael’s website at www.michaeldoddcommunications.com to sign up for his free newsletter and stay updated on his latest insights.

Enjoy the episode and, as always, thanks for tuning in to Monday Night Live! 🙌

MondayNightLive #MediaTraining #InterviewTechniques #DerekArden #MichaelDodd #CommunicationSkills #PublicSpeaking #Journalism #BlowtorchOnTheBelly

Welcome to Monday Night Live

Mastering PThis week on Monday Night Live, host Derek Arden welcomes back renowned BBC commentator Justin Urquhart-Stewart for another insightful discussion on the latest global economic and political events.

With President Trump making waves yet again, Justin dives into the geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties shaping today’s investment landscape. From tariffs on electricity between Canada and the U.S. to China’s property crisis, he breaks down how these developments impact global markets and investor confidence.

Justin also shares his thoughts on Brexit, whether the UK is suffering post-EU departure, and the challenges of re-entering a single market. Plus, he answers audience questions on the key economic indicators to watch for a global shift.

Join us for this informative, no-nonsense breakdown of world affairs and financial markets. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights every week!

MondayNightLive #Economy #Investing #Geopolitics #JustinUrquhartStewart #DerekArdened professional or just starting your journey in public speaking, her insights will help you craft messages that captivate and inspire.

Derek Arden

Welcome to Monday Night Live

Mastering Public Speaking with Patricia Fripp | Monday Night Live with Derek Arden

This week on Monday Night Live, host Derek Arden welcomed the legendary Patricia Fripp, an award-winning keynote speaker, executive speech coach, and sales presentation expert. With her vast experience in communication and storytelling, Patricia shared invaluable insights into crafting powerful messages that resonate with audiences.

Patricia is gearing up for a major keynote speech at the Global Speaking Association’s Winter Workshop in March. In this special session of Monday Night Live, she gave us an exclusive dress rehearsal, offering a glimpse into the expertise she’ll be sharing with an audience of top speakers, business experts, and consultants.

One of Patricia’s fundamental principles is that communication should always be audience-centered. She emphasized that people care more about themselves than the speaker, which means successful presenters must shift their focus from “I” to “You”. By incorporating “you-focused” phrases, speakers can engage their audience on a deeper level.

Patricia shared various techniques for grabbing attention from the very first sentence. Some of her go-to methods include:

Asking a compelling question (e.g., “Have you ever walked into a room full of strangers and didn’t know how to start a conversation?”)

Using an interesting statistic with an emotional hook (e.g., “Would it surprise you to know that 80% of professionals fear public speaking?”)

Transporting the audience through time, either by taking them into the past (“Let’s go back to February 3rd, 2000…”) or painting a vivid future scenario (“Imagine it’s February 17th, 2026, and you’re delivering the highest-paid speech of your career…”)

With her experience studying screenwriting, Patricia emphasized the importance of starting stories late in the scene. Instead of lengthy backstories, she advised speakers to dive straight into the action. For example, rather than saying, “I grew up wanting to be a scientist…”, start with: “Being a scientist is like doing a jigsaw puzzle without the picture.” This instantly creates intrigue and connection.

One of Patricia’s ongoing missions is to encourage speakers to use more specific language. She pointed out that phrases like “He promised her everything” are vague, whereas “He promised her romance and adventure” create a stronger emotional impact.

Patricia’s advice: always bring your audience full circle. She recommended reminding listeners of the vision they created earlier in the presentation and encouraging them to take action to make it a reality.

This Monday Night Live session was a fantastic opportunity for Patricia to refine her keynote speech before her big event. She graciously thanked the audience for their feedback and the chance to practice in a live setting.

Derek Arden wrapped up the session by reminding everyone about the upcoming Monday Night Live 5th Anniversary Celebration on March 24th. If you want to connect with Patricia Fripp or explore her online training programs, her Virtual Training (VT) platform is available for anyone eager to elevate their speaking skills.

Patricia Fripp’s expertise in communication and storytelling made this episode a true masterclass in impactful speaking. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in public speaking, her insights will help you craft messages that captivate and inspire.

Welcome to Monday Night Live

Join us for another insightful episode of Monday Night Live, where Derek Arden welcomes an inspiring leader in education, Mike Foley, CEO of the Wessex Academy Trust.

With a career spanning from teaching in London to leading one of the UK’s most successful Multi-Academy Trusts, Mike shares his journey, leadership insights, and the challenges of managing 12 schools, 7,000 students, and nearly 1,000 staff members.

Mike’s career in education started unexpectedly. Growing up in South London, he initially considered a legal career after earning a history degree. However, a postgrad opportunity in teaching changed everything. He quickly discovered his passion for education, leading him to rapid promotions and eventually to the role of headteacher in his late 30s. After a decade in that role, he embraced the challenge of leading The Thomas Hardy School, one of the largest schools in the UK, before taking on the CEO position at Wessex Academy Trust in 2021.

Running a multi-academy trust is a monumental task. Mike explains how strategic leadership, teamwork, and a strong culture keep the organization running smoothly. Key leadership challenges include:

A recurring theme in Mike’s leadership philosophy is trusting and empowering people. He emphasizes that leading at scale means ensuring others are motivated, aligned with the vision, and able to execute effectively. The key question he always asks himself is: How do I get people to do the right things, willingly and passionately?

Mike also discusses the importance of continuous performance management. Instead of outdated annual reviews, the trust has moved towards ongoing performance reflection and feedback loops, helping leaders and teachers stay sharp and motivated.

With artificial intelligence (AI) becoming a hot topic in education, Mike shares how Wessex Academy Trust is using AI creatively rather than banning it outright. One example? Students critiquing AI-generated essays to enhance their learning experience. He believes that embracing new technology, rather than fearing it, is crucial for the future of education.

One of the biggest debates in education today is mobile phone use in schools. Mike recalls how, as headteacher at Thomas Hardy, he introduced a compromise policy: students could bring phones to school, but they had to be turned off and put away during the day. Breaking the rule meant parents had to come in to collect the phone. The result? A school-wide culture of responsibility and respect.

As an Ofsted inspector, Mike provides valuable insights into the inspection process. He highlights that Ofsted’s role isn’t just to criticize but to confirm schools’ own self-assessments and help them improve. He also discusses upcoming changes to the Ofsted framework, expected in September 2025, which could impact the way Multi-Academy Trusts are evaluated.

When asked for his one piece of advice for aspiring leaders, Mike emphasizes resilience. His mantra? Find the good in the bad. Every challenge presents a learning opportunity, and those who can adapt and push forward will be the most successful in any field.

Thank You for Watching!

A huge thank you to Mike Foley for sharing his expertise and leadership wisdom. If you’re passionate about education, leadership, or innovation, this episode is a must-watch!

👉 Don’t forget to like, c

Welcome to Monday Night Live

This week, Derek sits down with his longtime friend, Alan Stevens, a renowned reputation management expert, journalist, and professional speaker.

The episode kicks off with Alan recounting his journey, starting as a teacher in the 1970s, moving into investigative journalism with the Consumers Association (known for publications like Which? Magazine), and eventually establishing his own reputation management firm.

Alan’s early days were filled with undercover investigations, including secret shopper experiences and inspecting garages. These moments offer a glimpse into his hands-on approach to uncovering the truth, with some hilariously intense stories of narrowly escaping confrontations!

Alan also shares anecdotes about his role as a professional speaker and coach, having served as President of both the UK Professional Speakers Association and the Global Speakers Federation. From music MC gigs at age 12 (where he shared the stage with The Rolling Stones!) to coaching high-profile clients in handling media crises, Alan’s storytelling is captivating.

The conversation transitions into Alan’s expertise in crisis management and reputation repair. He discusses high-profile case studies, including:

Alan critiques public figures like Greg Wallace and Prince Andrew, emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility, controlling the narrative, and issuing genuine apologies to minimize damage.

The Beverly Hills Hotel Boycott:

Alan recounts navigating a complex crisis when the Sultan of Brunei’s controversial legislation led Hollywood celebrities to boycott the hotel. Alan’s strategic responses helped mitigate the fallout, showcasing his expertise in managing high-stakes situations.

From Gerald Ratner’s infamous speech to David Letterman’s tactful handling of blackmail, Alan highlights what to do—and what to avoid—when facing public scrutiny.

In this candid discussion, Alan explains how reputation repair isn’t just about damage control—it’s about authenticity, humility, and strategic communication. He stresses the importance of never lying, apologizing sincerely, and focusing on rebuilding trust.

The episode also offers lighthearted moments, like Derek and Alan reminiscing about their time at the National Speakers Association of Australia conference and their hilarious experience co-hosting a charity auction. Alan’s humor and authenticity shine through as he reflects on these personal anecdotes.

Whether you’re a speaker, business leader, or someone interested in personal branding, this episode is packed with practical advice, real-life stories, and plenty of laughs. Alan’s wealth of knowledge and Derek’s engaging questions make for a thought-provoking and entertaining conversation.

f you’d like to connect with Alan Stevens, you can reach him at [email protected] or find him on his website.

Derek Arden

Welcome to Monday Night Live

Host Derek Arden welcomed networking expert Will Kintish for an insightful and practical chat,

The session was packed with actionable tips, personal anecdotes, and thought-provoking advice to improve communication and networking skills in both social and professional settings.

Here’s a summary of the highlights:

The Importance of Names and Introductions
Will Kintish emphasized that many people struggle to remember names, so it’s crucial to help others by clearly introducing yourself. A simple approach like pausing after your name—e.g., “Hello, my name is… Will Kintish”—gives people a moment to register it. He also noted how people often mirror the way you introduce yourself, so setting the tone with a clear and confident introduction can make a big difference.

Asking Better Questions
Will shared a valuable lesson learned from the late Queen Mother. Instead of asking, “What do you do?”—a question that can sometimes feel limiting—she reframed it to encourage more meaningful responses. For instance, replacing it with, “Tell me about what keeps you busy” allows for a broader and more engaging conversation. Will also highlighted the importance of talking about what you do in a way that focuses on the value you bring, rather than just stating your job title.

The Power of Active Listening
A major theme of the discussion was listening carefully and attentively. Will reminded the audience to observe not only what people say but also their body language, as it often reveals more than words. Drawing from Dale Carnegie’s principles, he underscored that letting others talk about themselves builds stronger connections. Will shared a personal anecdote about a dinner conversation where his genuine interest in someone else’s story led to a memorable and engaging discussion.

WAIT: Why Am I Talking?
Will introduced the acronym WAIT—“Why Am I Talking?”—as a reminder to pause before dominating a conversation. This self-awareness is key to fostering meaningful interactions. He stressed the importance of balancing conversations by flipping the focus back to others after sharing your thoughts briefly.

Avoiding Arguments
One of Will’s golden rules is never to argue. Instead of engaging in disputes, he suggests offering alternative perspectives with kindness and respect. He mentioned how this approach, rooted in Dale Carnegie’s principles, fosters more productive and harmonious relationships.

Respect and Admitting Mistakes
The conversation also touched on the importance of respect and accountability. Will recounted a personal story about a challenging situation in his charity work where someone’s inability to admit mistakes strained their relationship. The lesson? Admitting and learning from mistakes goes a long way in maintaining trust and respect.

Relearning the Basics
Will and Derek concluded that often, we don’t need to learn new skills but rather relearn and practice fundamental principles. Whether it’s showing genuine interest in others, asking thoughtful questions, or being a better listener, these timeless strategies remain relevant today.

Key Takeaways:
Names Matter: Help others remember your name by introducing yourself clearly and confidently.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Replace “What do you do?” with more engaging alternatives.
Listen Actively: Pay attention to both words and body language, and let others share their stories.
WAIT: Ask yourself “Why Am I Talking?” to ensure a balanced conversation.
Avoid Arguments: Offer perspectives with respect and without conflict.
Admit Mistakes: Accountability strengthens relationships and trust.

Derek closed the session by thanking Will for sharing his wealth of experience and reminding viewers that sometimes hearing these lessons multiple times is essential to fully absorb them.

For anyone looking to deepen their networking skills or connect with Will Kintish, you can reach him at https://willkintish.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Derek Arden’s YouTube channel for more inspiring episodes of Monday Night Live!

Derek Arden

Welcome to Monday Night Live

In this insightful episode of Monday Night Live, Derek Arden sits down with Winston Marsh, a seasoned sales and marketing officer, to discuss the keys to success in both personal and professional life.

Packed with actionable advice and inspirational anecdotes, this conversation dives deep into essential topics like integrity, positive mindset, and impactful communication.

Winston highlights the transformative effect of simply doing what you promise. From fulfilling commitments to leading by example, he shares stories that underline how integrity can open doors and earn trust, whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder or starting your own venture.

Winston and Derek explore the profound impact of self-talk on attitude and perception. Winston recounts how shifting from describing his day as “good” to “fantastic” changed how others viewed him, emphasizing the value of uplifting inner dialogue.

From body language to handshakes, Winston unpacks the subtle cues that create lasting impressions. He illustrates how dressing appropriately and showing genuine interest can build trust and forge stronger connections.

Drawing from his own journey, Winston shares the importance of honing public speaking skills and building a robust network. Whether through joining organizations like Rotary or simply asking engaging questions, he demonstrates how these efforts can lead to personal and professional growth.

The duo touches on contemporary issues like sexual harassment training and the importance of respectful workplace interactions, providing thoughtful insights into maintaining professionalism in today’s business environment.

Winston underscores the value of authentic curiosity in conversations. By asking meaningful questions and maintaining open body language, he shows how to build deeper, trust-based relationships.

This episode not only provides practical life tips but also connects them to timeless principles from figures like Dale Carnegie and Brian Tracy. Whether you’re looking to elevate your career, improve personal relationships, or simply approach life with more positivity, Derek and Winston deliver wisdom you won’t want to miss.

Tune in for a conversation that’s as engaging as it is empowering.

Welcome to Monday Night Live

Welcome to Monday Night Live

In a recent episode of “Monday Night Live,” host Derek Arden engaged in a dynamic conversation with Geoff Ramm, the visionary behind “Celebrity Service” and “OMG Marketing.” Geoff, renowned for his expertise in delivering exceptional customer experiences, shared invaluable insights into how businesses can transcend conventional service standards to achieve global recognition.

Understanding Celebrity Service

Ramm Geoff introduced the concept of “Celebrity Service,” emphasizing the importance of treating every customer as a VIP. He argued that while good customer service fosters repeat business, delivering a celebrity-level experience can propel a brand to international acclaim. By making each client feel like a star, businesses can cultivate loyalty and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

The Role of Love in Customer Service

A standout point in the discussion was the role of genuine care and passion—what Ramm refers to as “love”—in customer interactions. He suggested that infusing love into service delivery not only enhances the customer experience but also fosters a positive work environment. Employees who are encouraged to express care and enthusiasm are more likely to create memorable moments for customers, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty.

Creating Memorable Experiences

Ramm shared practical strategies for crafting unforgettable customer experiences. He highlighted the significance of personalization, attention to detail, and exceeding expectations. By anticipating customer needs and delivering beyond the standard service, businesses can create moments that customers are eager to share, effectively turning them into brand advocates.

The Impact on Business Growth

The conversation also delved into the tangible benefits of implementing Celebrity Service. Ramm provided examples of businesses that have seen substantial growth and global recognition by adopting this approach. He emphasized that in today’s market, where products and services can be easily replicated, the customer experience becomes a key differentiator. Investing in exceptional service can lead to lucrative, repeat business and a strong, positive reputation.

Derek Arden’s interview with Geoff Ramm offered profound insights into elevating customer service to a celebrity level. By treating every customer as a VIP and infusing genuine care into interactions, businesses can create memorable experiences that drive loyalty and distinguish them in the marketplace. Ramm’s expertise underscores the idea that exceptional service is not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them in ways that leave a lasting impression.