In this episode, I chat with John Constantine - former US Secret Service Agent, leadership pro, and someone I’ve (apparently) known for over a decade without realising it.
We cover leadership, ego, cultural diplomacy… and the time one of his colleagues elbowed me in the face in New York.

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I write more deeply about what I learn from my interviewees along 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

----------------------------------------------------Chapters

00:00 Introduction to John's Background

02:56 Joining the Secret Service: A Personal Journey

05:57 The Importance of Diplomacy in Security

09:36 Cultural Sensitivity in Operations

12:13 Navigating Cultural Differences

13:12 Decision-Making Under Pressure

15:52 Crisis Response and Decision Making

20:10 Surreal Experiences in the Field

24:33 Lessons from Political Leaders

29:04 The Journey to Personal Philosophy

32:18 Identity Beyond Profession

36:44 The Essence of Leadership

38:54 Navigating Identity Beyond Titles