In this episode of the NEGOTIATEx podcast, we explore the remarkable journey and insights of Adrian Goodwin, a 19-year NYPD veteran, educator, and acclaimed author. From her formative years in an urban environment to her transition from teaching to law enforcement, Adrian’s story is one of resilience and dedication. She discusses the challenges and opportunities of being a black woman in the NYPD, emphasizing the importance of empathy, mentorship, and diversity in building effective teams. Through recounting a crisis negotiation and her approach to family disputes, Adrian showcases the universal applicability of negotiation skills. She also shares her strategies for self-regulation in high-stakes situations and the integration of real-world experiences into her academic teaching, highlighting the significance of verbal judo in conflict resolution.