Negotiate Anything Veterans Day Masterclass: Leadership, Service, and the Conversations That Shape Us
Nov 11, 2025
Dr. Heiss Gibson, a retired U.S. Army colonel and Harvard professor, discusses the crucial role of humility and trust in leadership, especially with AI integration. Michèle Flournoy, former U.S. Under Secretary of Defense, shares insights from high-stakes decisions like the Bin Laden raid, emphasizing the balance of strategy and empathy. Brian Ahearn, Chief Influence Officer, reflects on his personal journey of reconciliation with his Vietnam veteran father, highlighting how honest conversations can bridge emotional divides and foster healing.
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Episode notes
Changing A Secretary's Mind
- Michèle Flournoy and Mike Vickers risked rebuking Secretary Gates to argue for a SEAL raid on bin Laden.
- Their briefing changed his advice and influenced President Obama's final decision.
Bring A Credible Wingman
- Do coordinate with a credible teammate and divide speaking roles before urgent high-stakes meetings.
- Do request urgent access together to signal the seriousness of your concerns.
Negotiate Predictable Time Off
- Do state family constraints and propose predictable, concrete work arrangements in job negotiations.
- Do frame flexibility as a way to sustain long-term performance, not reduce commitment.
