Stronger with Don Saladino Evy Poumpouras | Don’t Try to Change People’s Beliefs. Do This Instead
Aug 5, 2025
Evy Poumpouras, former U.S. Secret Service agent and interrogation expert who now teaches interviewing and protective skills. She talks about thriving in high-stakes environments. She explains why listening and empathy matter more than arguing. She outlines a four-archetype framework for negotiation and how trust beats trying to change beliefs.
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Don't Try To Change Beliefs
- Trying to change someone's belief system usually fails because beliefs form from life experiences and identity.
- Empathy and asking "what does this person need?" builds connection and trust instead of confrontation.
Squeaking Through The NYPD Run
- Evy nearly failed the NYPD 1.5-mile run and "squeaked" through the fitness test by seconds.
- That early struggle showed her physical fitness and real running ability were different skills.
From NYPD To Secret Service Young
- Evy moved straight from NYPD academy into the U.S. Secret Service at age 22 after applying on a whim.
- Her language skills and working for a congresswoman helped her stand out among elite applicants.
