How to Give Feedback Without Triggering Defensiveness — Backed by Science
Most feedback fails not because it’s wrong — but because it triggers defensiveness.
Buy the book Let's Talk: Make Effective Feedback Your Superpower by Therese Huston
In this episode, cognitive scientist and author Therese Huston joins Kwame Christian to reveal the brain science behind effective, non-threatening feedback. You’ll learn why even well-meaning feedback can backfire, how to prevent emotional resistance before it starts, and what most managers get completely wrong when delivering hard truths.
Whether you're a leader avoiding uncomfortable conversations or someone who wants to build a culture of trust, this episode gives you practical, research-backed tools to speak up without sparking conflict. Discover the subtle shifts — from leading with listening to stating your intentions — that make feedback land with clarity and care.
🔍 You’ll learn:
Why your brain sees feedback as a threat — and how to override it
The “Jedi” feedback move that instantly lowers defenses
What to say before criticism to avoid sounding like an enemy
Why silence makes things worse — and how to break it safely
Connect with Dr. Therese Huston
theresehuston.com
Buy the Book - Sharp - 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science
Follow Therese on LinkedIn
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!
Om Podcasten
Transform your relationships. Speak your truth. Get what you deserve—with Kwame Christian as your guide. This is the #1 negotiation podcast in the world with over 15 million downloads, but it’s about so much more than that.
This isn’t about manipulation or domination—it’s about showing up more powerfully, leading with authenticity, and speaking your truth with more clarity. Whether you’re leading a team, parenting through stress, or learning to speak up without fear, the skills you’ll build here will transform how you show up in every area of your life.
Kwame doesn’t just teach strategy—he teaches transformation, helping you become the kind of person who moves through life with more clarity, courage, and compassion. Every episode is rooted in empathy, psychology, and Kwame’s signature warmth, blending real-world stories, expert guests, and practical frameworks so you can break through the fears that have been holding you back.
Join millions of listeners who’ve discovered that the best things in life really are on the other side of difficult conversations.
Ready to level up at work and at home?
About the Host: Kwame Christian, Esq., M.A.
Kwame Christian the founder and CEO of the American Negotiation Institute. He's known for his viral TEDx Talk, “Finding Confidence in Conflict,” and is a bestselling author of two books:
• How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race (2022)
• Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life (2020)
As a degrees in law, psychology, and public policy, Kwame brings a wealth of knowledge to every episode. He’s also a LinkedIn instructor with over 2.3 million learners, making complex negotiation concepts accessible to everyone.
Why This Podcast?
At the American Negotiation Institute, we believe that the best things in life are on the other side of difficult conversations. Our mission is to empower you to negotiate anything, anywhere. Whether you’re a seasoned negotiator or just starting, our podcast equips you with the tools and confidence to navigate any conversation.
Tune in to Transform Your Life:
Join millions of listeners who have already unlocked the power of negotiation. Subscribe now and start mastering the skills that will transform your professional and personal life. Watch our episodes on YouTube for more visual insights and tips.
Connect with Us:
• Website: American Negotiation Institute
• Email: simon@negotiateanything.com
• LinkedIn: Kwame Christian
• YouTube: Negotiate Anything
Produced by the American Negotiation Institute