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-uptonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtodiplomat/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@howtodiplomat

Maria's contact details:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-brewer-b426b0180/

Website: https://paperbell.me/maria-brewer

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

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

Chapters

00:00 The Calling of Diplomacy

04:58 Creating Community Abroad

07:13 The Journey to Diplomacy

09:44 Moments of Impact in Consular Work

11:46 Lessons in Listening and Understanding

14:32 Balancing Diplomacy and Motherhood

16:47 Navigating Crisis as a Parent

19:20 The Dynamics of Tandem Careers

21:46 Resilience in Diplomatic Families

24:16 Leadership Lessons from Experience

28:13 The Challenges and Rewards of Diplomacy

29:58 The Ambassador's Writing Style

31:36 Negotiation Techniques in Diplomacy

33:18 The Role of Ambassadors in Democracy

36:09 The Importance of Convening in Diplomacy

37:34 The Human Touch in Diplomacy

38:26 The Autonomy of Smaller Posts

40:08 Transitioning from Ambassador to Civilian Life

42:35 Embracing Change and New Beginnings

46:08 Coaching and Leadership Development

48:38 Authenticity in Leadership

52:41 Authentic Leadership and Strategic Intelligence

54:33 The Transition Paradox in Leadership

54:59 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome