Beyond the Deal: How Negotiation Builds Relationships

In an era defined by uncertainty, geopolitical disruption is no longer an occasional challenge but a permanent feature of the business landscape. From shifting trade relationships and regional conflicts to economic volatility and supply chain disruptions, leaders are being asked to navigate a world where instability has become the new normal. In this episode of Learning Rewired, Bjorn Beam sits down with Alex Barker, News Editor of FT, to explore what geopolitical change means for organisations, leaders, and talent strategies.

In this episode of Learning Rewired, Financial Times markets columnist Katie Martin sits down with Bjorn Beam, geopolitical strategist at Arcano Partners and former intelligence professional, to explore how geopolitical disruption, technological transformation, and global uncertainty are reshaping the business landscape. Together, they discuss why today's executives can no longer treat geopolitics as a distant concern. From the shifting balance of power between the United States and China to the implications of conflicts in the Middle East, the conversation examines how global events increasingly influence corporate strategy, talent management, cybersecurity, and operational resilience. The episode explores: Why geopolitical risk is now a boardroom issue. How China is leveraging long-term strategic planning to strengthen its global position. The consequences of growing dependence on critical technologies, energy supplies, and global supply chains. The increasing importance of contingency planning and organisational resilience. How AI, cyber threats, disinformation, and emerging technologies are creating new vulnerabilities for organisations and employees. The leadership mindset required to navigate uncertainty and build future-ready businesses. Why understanding supply chains, critical dependencies, and systemic risks has become essential for senior executives. Bjorn and Katie also examine the opportunities emerging from today's volatile environment, arguing that organisations that invest in preparation, adaptability, and strategic foresight will be best positioned to thrive in an increasingly complex world. A thought-provoking conversation on leadership, resilience, technology, and the future of business in an era of geopolitical change.

Why do so many transformations fail - even with the right strategy and technology?In this episode, behavioural scientist Guy Champniss explains why most organisational challenges are really behaviour problems in disguise.From AI adoption and habits at work to decision-making, culture, and motivation, he unpacks why leaders must stop treating behaviour as an afterthought — and start designing for it.🌐 Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4👉 Read the blog: https://bit.ly/4p3dcCJ

Adaptability is fast becoming the defining skill of modern leadership. Andrew Hill, senior business writer at the Financial Times, unpacks how leaders can stay agile, clear, and effective amid political shifts, AI disruption, and rising uncertainty.Guest: Andrew Hill, Financial Times🌐Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4

Can we really future-proof our careers?In this episode, Financial Times journalist Isabel Berwick unpacks how AI, automation, and shifting workplace cultures are reshaping what it means to stay relevant. From graduate hiring chaos to the rise of AI agents, she reveals why adaptability-not certainty-is the real career advantage.Guest: Isabel Berwick, Financial Times🌐Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4

Negotiation doesn’t end at signature- it begins a relationship. Katharina Dalka, teh CEO of Stellarone, unpacks the human factors that make or break deals: culture and context, money mindsets, “resentment costs,” and the leadership behaviours that turn contracts into durable partnerships.🌐Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4

Leadership expert Professor Dame Vlatka Hlupic challenges the obsession with frameworks and methods, and makes the case for a shift in mindset instead.She unpacks her Five-Level Management Shift model, a powerful tool that helps leaders identify where their teams really stand from toxic disengagement to limitless innovation and how to guide them through conscious, level-by-level transformation.Guest: Professor Dame Vlatka Hlupic, Headspring associate faculty🌐Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4

In this episode, business strategist Peter Fisk breaks down why being busy doesn’t mean being productive and why AI alone won’t save your business. He shares bold insights on how purpose, imagination, and strategic learning are the real game-changers. From reverse-engineering the future to building sustainable innovation, Fisk offers practical advice for leaders who want to stop reacting and start reinventing.Guest: Peter Fisk, Business strategist🌐Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4

Why storytelling is no longer a ‘nice to have’ - but an important leadership skill.In this episode, author and corporate storyteller Preethi Nair explores what it truly means to lead with authenticity. She shares how leaders can use storytelling to communicate vision, build trust, and drive meaningful change.From shaping culture to making data resonate - this conversation reveals how the stories we tell can define the futures we create.Guest: Preethi Nair, Corporate Storyteller🌐Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4

Why strong professional relationships are no longer optional-they’re essential. From breaking down the myth of the “natural networker” to practical tools like the Four I’s and the 24/7/30 rule.Andy shares how leaders and organisations can build trust, break silos, and create deeper connections in a rapidly evolving workplace.Guest: Andy Lopata, Author & Professional Relationships Strategist🌐Headspring web: https://bit.ly/4iGnpC4