In this episode of the Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Reddington, a certified forensic interviewer and the founder of the Disciplined Listening Method. Michael's work focuses on transforming the art of listening into a powerful tool for leaders, enabling them to engage more deeply, build trust, and achieve better results in their conversations. Michael shared his passion for helping people uncover hidden value in their interactions, emphasizing that many conversations leave much to be desired due to distractions, biases, and assumptions. He highlighted the importance of being a better listener first, which can lead to more effective communication. By observing the nuances of conversations and understanding how to connect with others, leaders can foster stronger relationships and drive better outcomes. We discussed the significance of contextual awareness in conversations, noting that behaviors can have multiple meanings depending on the situation. Michael stressed the need for leaders to remain outcome-focused and to help others save face, especially when discussing sensitive topics. He also introduced his book, which integrates non-confrontational interview techniques with business communication best practices, aimed at maximizing the value of every conversation. As we wrapped up, Michael provided valuable insights on how to approach high-impact conversations, encouraging listeners to focus on solutions rather than problems. He reminded us that effective leadership begins with disciplined listening, a theme that resonates deeply in the nonprofit sector where building relationships is crucial for success. I encourage you to visit Michael's website, michaelreddington.com, for more resources and insights. Thank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of the Nonprofit Exchange! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices