Persistence Playbook

Author: Brett McDermott

Welcome to Persistence Playbookthe podcast that helps entrepreneurs defeat resistance and do the important work they were meant to do. Most people dont struggle with what to dothey struggle with doing it consistently. Adversity, self-doubt, and internal resistance stop more dreams than lack of knowledge ever will. So how do the worlds most relentless achievers keep showing up, day after day? What thoughts, habits, and communities fuel their unstoppable momentum? Were here to find outso you can push past resistance and take action no matter what.
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Language: en

Genres: Education, Self-Improvement

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#154 - How Leaders Can Build Trust in High Stakes Situations with Robin Dreeke
Thursday, 15 January, 2026

Welcome to the Charismatic Leader Podcast. In this episode, Brett McDermott sits down with Robin Dreeke, former head of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program. With decades of experience understanding, predicting, and influencing human behavior in high‑stakes environments involving spies, criminals, and hostile actors, Robin brings unparalleled insight into the mechanics of trust.Together, Brett and Robin unpack why trust is the foundation of influence and how leaders can build it consistently—even under pressure. Robin shares his behavioral equation for trust (rapport + credibility ÷ self‑interest) and explains how ego suspension, non‑judgmental curiosity, and predictable behavior become powerful levers for connection.Whether you’re leading a team, negotiating in tense situations, or simply striving to deepen relationships, this conversation offers practical tools to inspire safety, credibility, and authentic rapport.Key TakeawaysTrust = rapport + credibility ÷ self‑interestWhy ego suspension accelerates connectionHow non‑judgmental curiosity transforms dialogueThe role of predictable behavior in building loyaltyPractical questions leaders can use to uncover priorities and inspire trust