In this discussion, Jonathan Keidan, founder of Torch Capital and former music industry manager, shares his remarkable career transition to venture capital. He emphasizes the pivotal role of empathy and trust in negotiations, revealing how they create win-win scenarios. Keidan explores the intersection of technology and consumer behavior, offering insights on adapting to business pivots and maintaining founder motivation. Listeners gain valuable tactics grounded in reality and data for informed decision-making, fostering supportive relationships in the negotiation process.

Ernest Levert Jr. is the Founding Director of The Royal Oak Initiative, a chess-based mentoring group fostered through community engagement. In this enlightening conversation, he shares how chess principles enhance negotiation skills. He discusses the significance of strategic thinking and preparation, comparing it to decision-making in chess. Levert also introduces the MVP framework—Material, Vulnerabilities, and Position—emphasizing mindfulness in negotiation. The talk highlights the importance of adaptability and learning from loss to thrive in both chess and negotiations.

Craig Reed, Chief Procurement Officer for Corteva Agriscience, shares his extensive expertise from years in procurement and supply chain management. He discusses aligning negotiation strategies with business needs, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing outcomes over costs. Craig highlights the role of active listening and team dynamics in crafting effective negotiations. He also touches on the benefits of negotiation workshops and innovative AI solutions in enhancing customer relations, offering listeners practical insights to improve their negotiation skills.

James Ontra, founder of Shuffler, brings 25 years of expertise in persuasive presentations to the table. He discusses how every presentation is a story, with slides acting as engaging scenes. Uncover the secrets of effective presentation management and its vital role in sales and negotiations. James shares strategies for fostering emotional connections and simplifying presentations for greater impact. Learn how to turn your data into compelling narratives that resonate with your audience and enhance decision-making.

Brandon Mitchell, an accomplished transactional lawyer specializing in M&A and reinsurance, shares his expertise on effective negotiation strategies. He emphasizes the importance of establishing a common understanding before negotiations begin. The conversation highlights how emotions and perceptions can impact outcomes, advocating for patience and curiosity. Real-world anecdotes illustrate the power of perspective-taking to foster productive dialogues, making it a valuable listen for anyone aiming to improve their negotiation skills.

Billie Gilliam, a seasoned clinician and educator from Cleveland, shares her expertise on fostering psychological safety in leadership. She emphasizes the importance of separating intention from impact during tough conversations. Billie discusses how trauma-informed therapy techniques can enhance emotional awareness and communication. Listeners learn practical strategies for improving team dynamics and promoting clear communication. The conversation highlights the significant role of informal leaders in creating a supportive work environment.

Ben Reinberg, a seasoned commercial real estate expert and CEO of Alliance CGC, shares his inspiring journey into the world of negotiation. He delves into the concept of leverage, emphasizing its role in both real estate and everyday life. Listeners will learn about maintaining emotional balance, building relationships, and the power of effective listening. With practical strategies and rich anecdotes, Ben illustrates how continuous learning can enhance negotiation skills and contribute to personal and professional success.

Drew Glover, founder of Fiat Growth and co-founder of Fiat Ventures, discusses the art of code switching and its impact on negotiation. He shares how adapting communication styles can significantly enhance outcomes. Glover addresses the strategic use of AI in storytelling, helping listeners improve message delivery. He emphasizes asking uncomfortable questions to uncover truths and build leverage. Listeners will appreciate his insights on fostering authenticity and curiosity, paving the way for stronger relationships in business.

Keita Williams, founder and chief strategist of Success Bully, shares her expertise on mindset and communication transformations. She discusses the negative impact of seeking validation in negotiations and the necessity of self-awareness in overcoming workplace challenges. Keita highlights techniques to combat self-sabotage, emphasizing the power of internal dialogue and effective communication. The conversation also covers how to foster productive conversations and cultivate empowerment through emotional regulation, all crucial for personal and team growth.

Tichaona Gandhle, an immigrant entrepreneur and tech expert, shares his inspiring journey from Zimbabwe to the U.S. and discusses how he navigates high-stakes business negotiations. He dives into the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance negotiation tactics, emphasizing empathy and collaboration. Tichaona reveals how AI streamlines communication and research, boosts confidence in complex discussions, and transforms client interactions. His insights provide a fresh perspective on turning challenges into opportunities in the tech and funding industries.