CEO EXPLAINS: Working Habits Keeping You Undervalued

Your influence strategy might be costing you the very opportunities you think you’re earning. In this masterclass edition of Negotiate Anything, we expose how staying silent, minimizing your value, or waiting to be “noticed” can quietly undermine your compensation, credibility, and career trajectory. This episode brings together elite leadership and HR perspectives to challenge one of the most dangerous negotiation habits: negotiating down on yourself before the conversation even begins. You’ll learn why high-performing professionals — especially senior leaders — often fail to articulate their true value, how fear distorts negotiation decisions, and why companies expect you to advocate for yourself. From adopting a “mercenary” mindset toward your career, to understanding the full scope of what’s negotiable beyond salary, this conversation reframes negotiation as an ongoing process — not a one-time event at the offer stage. You’ll also discover why personal visibility and pre-negotiation positioning are just as critical as what you say at the table. Whether you’re preparing for a promotion, evaluating an offer, or aiming for the boardroom, this episode equips you with the mindset shifts and practical strategies to normalize discomfort, claim your worth, and negotiate from a position of strength. Key takeaway: Negotiation isn’t confrontation — it’s a dance. And when you’re prepared, confident, and clear on your value, everyone walks away with a better trade.

You don’t lose negotiations because you lack leverage — you lose them because you’re using the wrong approach. In this masterclass episode of Negotiate Anything, we break down three simple, repeatable methods that dramatically improve your negotiating effectiveness at work, without aggression, manipulation, or burning trust. This conversation cuts through the noise to show how everyday workplace negotiations actually work — from salary conversations and promotions to project scope, timelines, and influence across teams. You’ll learn how to prepare with clarity, communicate value with confidence, and recognize the subtle signals that tell you when to push, pause, or pivot. Rather than relying on charisma or confrontation, this episode focuses on practical skills you can apply immediately: reframing requests, anchoring discussions around shared value, and navigating resistance without escalating tension. These methods are designed to help you sound more credible, feel more confident, and walk away with better outcomes — consistently. If you want to negotiate more effectively without changing who you are, this episode gives you the tools to do exactly that.

Stop waiting for your hard work to speak for itself — the silence may be exactly why you're being undervalued. In this masterclass edition of Negotiate Anything, elite voices come together to help you stop "negotiating down on yourself" before you ever reach the table. In this episode, you'll learn: The Power of Self-Advocacy: Heather Spillsbury, COO of 50/50 Women on Boards, reveals why even high-performing leaders underestimate their value — and how a "high-impact soundbite" can instantly elevate your presence to boardroom-ready. The "Mercenary" Mindset: Jasani Courtney, VP of Human Resources, reframes your career as a business transaction — where you intentionally sell your skills to the highest-value opportunity. Why Negotiation Isn't Risky: Discover why it makes zero sense for companies to pull offers simply because you negotiated. The Holistic Offer: Learn how to evaluate total compensation beyond salary — time off, benefits, retirement, and bonuses — so your job supports your life, not the other way around. Pre-Negotiation Marketing: Understand why negotiation starts long before the table, through consistent, authentic visibility of your value. Whether you're pursuing a promotion or a seat in the boardroom, this episode delivers the mindset shifts and practical strategies needed to advocate confidently and secure the compensation you deserve.

What if your greatest asset in leadership and communication… was your sense of humor? In this episode, comedian, writer, and speaker Chris Duffy reveals how laughter isn't just entertainment—it's a powerful tool for connection, influence, vulnerability, and growth in business and life. Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or leader, this conversation will help you unlock the power of humor to boost your emotional intelligence, build deeper relationships, and even improve your performance in high-stakes environments. Connect with Chris chrisduffycomedy.com Buy the Book Humor Me - How Laughing More Can Make You Present, Creative, Connected, and Happy

Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/ In this episode, Sarah Ahern, Data Strategist in Supply Chain/Innovation helps us negotiate in the supply chain via a revenue model. How it will affect us in the day-to-day process of decision-making during the pandemic and now a recession, Also, the difficult conversations we need to have to address its impact over the next year. ⁠https://www.pathgrowth.com/⁠ https://www.pathgrowth.com/ ⁠Follow Sarah on LinkedIn⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahahern/ Contact ANI ⁠Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/ ⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/ ⁠The Ultimate Negotiation Guide⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/guides/ultimate-negotiation-guide/ ⁠Click here to buy your copy of How To Have Difficult Conversations About Race!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Have-Difficult-Conversations-About-Race/dp/1637741308/ref=pd_%5B%E2%80%A6%5Df0bc9774-7975-448b-bde1-094cab455adb&pd_rd_i=1637741308&psc=1 ⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Confidence-Conflict-Negotiate-Anything/dp/0578413736/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PSW69L6ABTK&keywords=finding+confidence+in+conflict&qid=1667317257&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjQyIiwicXNhIjoiMC4xNCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMjMifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=finding+confidence+in+conflic%2Caps%2C69&sr=8-1

Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/ In this episode, Chelsea Elliott, MSW. Discusses what is emotional intelligence and how to apply EI in our lives. Buy Chelsea's Book ⁠Natalie the Monster Slayer⁠ https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Chelsea-Elliott-MSW/dp/1735918601/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1657795804&refinements=p_27%3A+MSW%5CcChelsea+Elliott&s=books&sr=1-3&text=Chelsea+Elliott%2C+MSW ⁠Natalie's Not-So-Fun Play Date: How to Help Kids Manage Their Anger⁠ https://www.amazon.com/-/es/MSW-Chelsea-Elliott/dp/1735918636/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1657795804&refinements=p_27%3A+MSW%5CcChelsea+Elliott&s=books&sr=1-2&text=Chelsea+Elliott%2C+MSW Chelsea's Company ⁠www.somocomlab.com⁠ Donate Comfort Kits to Kids in Uvalde and Buffalo ⁠Donate Comfort Kits ⁠ https://www.gofundme.com/f/somocomlab?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer ⁠Follow Chelsea on LinkedIn⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseacelliott/ Contact ANI ⁠Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/ ⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/ ⁠The Ultimate Negotiation Guide⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/guides/ultimate-negotiation-guide/ ⁠Click here to buy your copy of How To Have Difficult Conversations About Race!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Have-Difficult-Conversations-About-Race/dp/1637741308/ref=pd_%5B%E2%80%A6%5Df0bc9774-7975-448b-bde1-094cab455adb&pd_rd_i=1637741308&psc=1 ⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Confidence-Conflict-Negotiate-Anything/dp/0578413736/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PSW69L6ABTK&keywords=finding+confidence+in+conflict&qid=1667317257&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjQyIiwicXNhIjoiMC4xNCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMjMifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=finding+confidence+in+conflic%2Caps%2C69&sr=8-1

Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/ Looking to take your negotiation skills to the next level? Join host Kwame Christian and guest David Johnson, an esteemed legal professional and design thinking expert, as they delve into the world of design thinking applied to negotiations. Gain invaluable insights into this innovative approach and learn how to leverage design thinking principles for success in your own negotiations. Tune in for actionable strategies and a fresh perspective on achieving better results. David Johnson Bio: David Johnson is a respected legal practitioner with extensive courtroom experience and a passion for teaching and research. He teaches at Stanford Law School and the Hasso Plattner School of Design, specializing in the intersection of law and design. With a background in both law and technology, David brings a unique perspective to negotiations, applying design thinking principles to enhance problem-solving and drive impactful outcomes. His expertise and dedication to improving social activism make him a sought-after speaker and author. Visit his personal website for more information on his groundbreaking work. ⁠Negotiation By Design Course ⁠ https://dschool.stanford.edu/classes/negotiation-by-design ⁠Follow Dave on LinkedIn⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/djohnsonllc/ ⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/ ⁠The Ultimate Negotiation Guide⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/guides/ultimate-negotiation-guide/ ⁠Click here to buy your copy of How To Have Difficult Conversations About Race!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Have-Difficult-Conversations-About-Race/dp/1637741308/ref=pd_%5B%E2%80%A6%5Df0bc9774-7975-448b-bde1-094cab455adb&pd_rd_i=1637741308&psc=1 ⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Confidence-Conflict-Negotiate-Anything/dp/0578413736/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PSW69L6ABTK&keywords=finding+confidence+in+conflict&qid=1667317257&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjQyIiwicXNhIjoiMC4xNCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMjMifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=finding+confidence+in+conflic%2Caps%2C69&sr=8-1

Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/} In this episode, Jennifer Walton, Chief Brand Officer at Sky Nile Consulting, discusses how to change the marketing field by creating a strategy focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. ⁠Sky Nile Consulting ⁠ https://www.skynileconsulting.com/ ⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/ ⁠The Ultimate Negotiation Guide⁠: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/guides/ultimate-negotiation-guide/ ⁠Click here to buy your copy of How To Have Difficult Conversations About Race!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Have-Difficult-Conversations-About-Race/dp/1637741308/ref=pd_%5B%E2%80%A6%5Df0bc9774-7975-448b-bde1-094cab455adb&pd_rd_i=1637741308&psc=1 ⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Confidence-Conflict-Negotiate-Anything/dp/0578413736/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PSW69L6ABTK&keywords=finding+confidence+in+conflict&qid=1667317257&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjQyIiwicXNhIjoiMC4xNCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMjMifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=finding+confidence+in+conflic%2Caps%2C69&sr=8-1

Why Most People Lose Big Without Noticing In this episode, Jeremy Delk reveals how his journey from a small town in Kentucky to Wall Street was shaped by the toughest negotiations of all — the ones with himself. Jeremy’s raw stories of losing millions, battling self-doubt, and building a multimillion-dollar venture capital firm expose the brutal truth most people miss: Success isn’t just about strategy — it’s about facing your own fears, mastering your mindset, and daring to take bold risks. Listen now to discover how to stop sabotaging yourself and start negotiating like your life depends on it. Connect with Jeremy Delk ⁠⁠Jeremy's Instagram ⁠ Contact ANI ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠negotiateanything.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!⁠

People don’t trust who you are—they trust what they feel around you. In this powerful episode, Kwame Christian sits down with Shawn Anthony—entrepreneur, talent manager, and host of School’s Over… Now What?—to reveal the hidden mechanics behind trust, influence, and real connection. Discover how Shawn turned his ability to connect people into a six-figure side hustle and then a thriving media business. From the boardroom to the podcast studio, Shawn shares real stories and strategies about building credibility, creating opportunity through generosity, and using podcasting as a tool for persuasive leverage. Whether you're trying to grow your brand, gain buy-in, or lead with confidence, this episode shows you what actually makes people believe in you—and what quietly pushes them away. Connect with Anthony ⁠podpromax.com⁠ Contact ANI ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠negotiateanything.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!