In this episode of Legend Letters, host Howie Chan talks with Scott Walker, a veteran kidnap-for-ransom negotiator with over 300 cases under his belt. Scott has used decades of experience to develop a unique understanding of what makes people think, feel, and act—specifically in times of adversity, conflict, and uncertainty.

In this conversation, Scott shares insights from his career in high-stakes negotiations. They discuss how some negotiation skills translate to everyday scenarios like business negotiations and family interactions. Scott also recounts his personal journey from a police officer in Scotland Yard to a crisis management consultant, and how a tragic family event reshaped his life's purpose and meaning.

Episode Breakdown:

01:16 Meet Scott Walker: The Negotiation Expert

04:56 From Scotland Yard Detective to Renowned Negotiator

14:47 The First Step Towards a Decision That Will Change Your Life

18:48 The Biggest Lesson Scott Learned in His First Kidnapping Case

24:09 The #1 Skill of Successful Negotiations

31:08 The REAL Challenge of Kidnap-for-Ransom Negotiations

34:17 Embracing Conflict to Win Negotiations

35:56 Managing Emotional Triggers: Try THIS Next Time You Feel Riled Up

40:39 How This Personal Tragedy Changed Scott’s Perspective and Career Path

45:12 How Can We Have Better Conversations? And Why Does It Matter?

47:20 Finding Purpose and Excitement in a New Career Path

50:05 Business Negotiations: Scott’s Thoughts and Insights

1:02:19 Kidnap Negotiations That Went South

Resources Mentioned:

Steven Pressfield’s The War of Art.

From Our Guest:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Get the book, Order out of Chaos.

Sign up for Scott’s newsletter, Negotiations Essentials.

Legendary Quotes:

“Anyone and everyone can be taught how to negotiate and how to communicate more effectively. It's a teachable skill. But it's also a perishable skill.” – Scott Walker

“You don't get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate.” – Howie Chan

“The golden rule of successful negotiation is: It's not about you.” – Scott Walker

It’s time to turn up the volume on life, make your mark, and live your legend. 🤘🏽

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