How to Diplomat - stories from ordinary people doing extraordinary things

The Australian Diplomat: Why I left my dream job after Egypt's revolutions & the hidden skill that makes diplomats unstoppable in business


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I write more deeply about what I learn from my intervieweesalong with insights from 20+ years as a diplomat and army officer - in my weekly ⁠newsletter⁠, Diplomatic Dispatches.

You can also find me here:LinkedIn: ⁠www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-s-upton⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/howtodiplomat/⁠Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@howtodiplomat

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In this episode of the How to Diplomat podcast, I speak to Josue Castro, an experienced diplomat who shares his journey through the complexities of diplomacy, particularly during the Arab Spring in Egypt. We talk about the challenges of navigating moral and ethical dilemmas, the importance of personal growth through adversity, and the skills gained from diplomatic experiences.


Josue reflects on his transition from diplomacy to sustainability consulting, emphasizing the significance of leadership and personal development. The conversation concludes with insights on career choices and the unique superpowers diplomats bring to the private sector.

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Chapters


00:00 Introduction

02:25 The Journey into Diplomacy

03:05 Finding Purpose in Foreign Affairs

04:34 Balancing Idealism and Pragmatism

06:50 Navigating Human Rights and Trade Interests

07:57 Experiences in Cairo: The Dream Team

09:10 The Emotional Toll of Diplomacy

10:41 Personal Growth and Leadership Development

12:47 Staying Grounded in Intense Situations

14:50 Transitioning from Government to Private Sector

19:21 Navigating Leadership Journeys

19:55 The Importance of Reflection in Career Growth

21:55 Lessons from Diplomacy: Skills and Insights

25:12 The Value of Boundary Spanning in Professional Life

29:10 Systems Thinking: A Diplomat's Perspective

31:17 Advice for Future Diplomats and Leaders

34:16 Final Takeaways


The views expressed in this episode are the personalreflections of the guest. They do not represent the official positions of theUK Foreign Office or any government.

This podcast shares human stories and transferable lessonsfrom diplomacy - not day-to-day operational details.

 

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How to Diplomat - stories from ordinary people doing extraordinary thingsBy JenUpton