The One Body Language Cue That Beats All the Others | Social Intelligence Briefing
The Art of Charm
Why the Freeze Is a High-Value Cue
Johnny and AJ describe how the freeze predicts truth and gives a window for real intel without interrogation.
In this episode, AJ and Johnny reveal one of the most powerful — and overlooked — body language cues in human behavior: the freeze.
First uncovered by former FBI counterintelligence agent Joe Navarro, the freeze isn’t fidgeting or eye contact — it’s the moment someone suddenly goes still. Whether you’re leading a team, negotiating a deal, or having a difficult conversation, this cue can tell you when you’ve hit something real.
You’ll learn exactly what the freeze means in the brain, how to spot it in real time, and the one move that separates amateurs from operators when it happens. This 10-minute skill upgrade will forever change how you read people, build trust, and uncover the truth in any conversation.
Chapters:
00:00 – The FBI’s secret body language cue
01:30 – What the “freeze” reveals about the brain
03:00 – How to spot the freeze in feedback and negotiation
05:00 – The two-second silence that surfaces truth
07:00 – Three signs of the freeze: motion, breath, and face
08:00 – The Two-Second Freeze Drill (step-by-step)
10:00 – Training your nervous system to stay calm under pressure
Episode Resources: If you want to build your network the way spies build sources, go grab our free guide: Network Like A Spy at theartofcharm.com/spy
A Word From Our Sponsors
Stop being over looked and unlock your X-Factor today at unlockyourxfactor.com
Check out Johnny on Instagram @Social_Intell or on Tiktok @social_intel
The very qualities that make you exceptional in your field are working against you socially. Visit the artofcharm.com/intel for a social intelligence assessment and discover exactly what's holding you back.
Don’t let financial opportunity slip through the cracks. Use code CHARM at monarch.com in your browser for HALF OFF your first year.
Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince. Upgrade your wardrobe today at quince.com/charm for free shipping and hassle-free returns.
Ready to turn your business idea into reality? Sign up for your $1/month trial at shopify.com/charm.
Need to hire top talent—fast? Claim your $75 Sponsored Job Credit now at Indeed.com/charm.
This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get your summer savings and shop premium wireless plans at mintmobile.com/charm
Save more than fifty percent on term life insurance at SELECTQUOTE.COM/CHARM TODAY to get started
Curious about your influence level?
Get your Influence Index Score today!
Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at theartofcharm.com/influence.
Check in with AJ and Johnny!
AJ on LinkedIn
Johnny on LinkedIn
AJ on Instagram
Johnny on Instagram
The Art of Charm on Instagram
The Art of Charm on YouTube
The Art of Charm on TikTok
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The AI-powered Podcast Player
