The Art of Charm is where self-motivated people, just like you, come to learn from the company’s coaches about to how to master human dynamics, relationships, and becoming your best self with the help of Johnny and AJ, the company’s founders. Johnny and AJ bring their 11 years of coaching experience from their famous Bootcamps, where they host clients in Los Angeles from all over the world and they share their stories, best practices and themselves on this weekly podcast. Not only does The Art of Charm help everyday people, including active members of the military, learn how to become higher performers, better spouses, partners, and coworkers, they dig deep into human behavior, the science behind it, and demystify what we do and why we do it.
You’ve got names in your phone that make you smile—but when’s the last time you actually reached out? In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak share four simple, science-backed strategies to reconnect with old friends, former mentors, and professional contacts—even if it’s been years. From “because I thought of you” texts to expert taps and nostalgia sparks, this is your action plan for rebuilding relationships that matter. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect mom...
In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener and Professor Christian van Nieuwerburgh, authors of Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection. Together, they unpack a new framework for transforming your conversations—not with better scripts, but with sharper intention. Drawing from psychology, coaching, and decades of research, we explore the six listening motivations, why “active listening” falls short, and how to avoid the silent killers of connection—like h...
Moving to a new city can feel like starting over—but it doesn’t have to. In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak break down a science-backed three-step strategy to plug into a brand-new social circle in weeks, not months. Whether you’re relocating or just looking to shake up your current routine, you’ll learn how to find the right spaces, start meaningful conversations, and turn physical activity into instant connection. Plus, you’ll walk away with this week’s Trip...
In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with Matt Dixon, co-author of The Challenger Sale and The Activator Advantage. In today’s conversation, Matt Dixon reveals why the professionals dominating in today’s market aren’t necessarily the most credentialed, but the most proactive. We explore Matt’s research across 3,000 professionals and break down the five business development personas, highlighting the unique traits and habits that make the “Activator” profile the highest performer of t...
Most networking advice feels awkward, outdated, or downright useless—until now. In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak hand you three conversation frameworks that eliminate the stress of small talk and turn fleeting chats into lasting relationships. Whether you dread mixers or freeze up trying to sell your value, this episode walks you through one opener, one value exchange, and one graceful exit line that make you the most memorable person in the room. Plus, you'...
In this episode of The Art of Charm, retired SWAT hostage negotiator Scott Tillema shares his battle-tested four-part framework for leading difficult conversations, defusing high-stakes conflicts, and influencing others with clarity and confidence. Trained by the FBI and Harvard, Scott now brings these skills to the boardroom, equipping leaders with the same life-saving tools he once used in crisis negotiations. Whether you're navigating a tense meeting, resolving conflict on your team, or havin...
What does it actually mean to be "high value" at a networking event—and how can you radiate it without saying a word? In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak break down how calm, cooperative, and confident behavior—not bravado—builds real influence. They share the science behind why people are drawn to prestige-based status, reveal the nonverbal signals that instantly raise your value, and explain how one client transformed from anxious to unforgettable using a tec...
In this eye-opening conversation, we sit down with Simone Stolzoff, author of The Good Enough Job, to explore why modern work culture traps so many of us in cycles of burnout, identity crises, and unrealistic ambition. Drawing on research and personal experience, Simone challenges the “dream job” myth and offers a liberating framework: redefine success on your terms. We explore the dangers of workism, the importance of building an identity outside of your career, and the power of setting clear b...
Charisma isn't just for extroverts or performers—it's a scientific advantage that determines how often you're invited, trusted, and remembered. In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak reveal why people decide how they feel about you before they evaluate your skills, and how this hidden force might be keeping you from the promotions and relationships you deserve. Through the story of their client Brett—a high-performer who was passed over for promotion despite worki...
This week on The Art of Charm, we're joined by award-winning psychologist and bestselling author Ethan Kross to explore the fascinating science of emotion regulation. In his newest book Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You, Ethan reveals how emotions secretly drive 90% of our lives—and how mastering them can unlock performance, connection, and fulfillment. We dig into why your emotions feel so overwhelming, why trying harder isn’t the solution, and how building your own mental ...
Are you missing the skill that actually determines success? In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak reveal how to create genuine connections in high-stakes situations - whether it's a first date, business lunch, or million-dollar meeting. This masterclass in "vibing" breaks down the science of meaningful connection and shares practical strategies that helped one client secure a $100 million investment during a simple golf outing. AJ and Johnny explain why focusing ...
In a world where remote work, Slack threads, and Zoom fatigue dominate, The Art of Charm welcomes Andrew Brodsky, management professor at UT Austin and author of Ping: The Secrets of Successful Virtual Communication. This episode is a masterclass in how to reclaim productivity, enhance visibility, and communicate strategically in a virtual-first world. Andrew introduces the PING Framework — a practical toolkit for navigating digital communication with precision, warmth, and power. If you're feel...
In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with Sebastien Page — Chief Investment Officer at T. Rowe Price and author of The Psychology of Leadership — to explore what world-class leadership really looks like. Blending sports psychology, positive psychology, and personality science, Sebastien unpacks the mental habits of resilient leaders, the science behind stress optimization, and the silent traps that sabotage ambition. He reveals why perfection isn't the goal, why some stress is critic...
In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with bestselling author and productivity renegade Oliver Burkeman to unpack his refreshingly honest approach to time, ambition, and self-worth. Drawing from his latest book Meditations for Mortals, Oliver introduces a new philosophy he calls Imperfectionism — a radical shift from hustle culture and perfection paralysis. We discuss the psychology of high achievers who constantly feel behind, the traps of productivity debt, and how letting go of per...
In today’s episode, we’re joined by Dr. Caroline Fleck—licensed psychologist, corporate consultant, and Stanford adjunct. With years of clinical practice and executive coaching under her belt, Dr. Fleck has developed powerful validation techniques that help high performers build authentic relationships and navigate complex conversations. Her groundbreaking work, detailed in her new book, Validation, transforms the way professionals connect both personally and professionally. Join us for a compel...
In today’s episode, we’re joined by Jenny Wood—career coach, former Google executive, and author of Wild Courage. Over 18 years at Google, Jenny rose from entry-level to executive and created one of the company’s largest career development programs. Her work focuses on breaking the myths of professional success and teaching high performers how to reclaim “taboo” traits—like being shameless, weird, or even manipulative—to build authentic relationships, increase visibility, and take control of the...
Today's guest is Steve Magness, a world-renowned expert on human performance and resilience. As the bestselling author of Do Hard Things and Win the Inside Game, Steve has coached Olympic athletes, executives, and high performers to break through mental barriers and sustain success. With a background in sports science and psychology, he explores the hidden forces that shape motivation, decision-making, and well-being. His latest book reveals why traditional success mindsets often backfire—and ho...
In today’s episode, we explore the essential leadership skills that transform good managers into great ones with Sabina Nawaz. As the CEO of Nawaz Consulting, Sabina has advised Fortune 500 executives, government leaders, and nonprofit organizations on how to navigate the complexities of leadership, influence, and communication. Sabina is also the author of You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be and Others Need. Introduction Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Sabina Nawaz a...
In today’s episode, we discuss the psychology of high achievement and sustainable success with Dr. Mary Anderson, who has helped countless professionals break free from burnout while maintaining their edge. She is the author of The Happy High Achiever: 8 Essentials to Overcome Anxiety, Manage Stress, and Energize Yourself for Success Without Losing Your Edge. Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Mary Anderson as she unpacks the psychology of high achievement and the hidden mental trap...
In today’s episode, we discuss the most effective approach to fly up the corporate ladder with Melody Wilding, an executive coach, human behavior expert, and acclaimed author of Managing Up: How to Get What You Need From the People in Charge. Recognized as one of Business Insider’s “Most Innovative Coaches,” Melody specializes in guiding sensitive high-achievers—from Fortune 500 leaders to creative visionaries—helping them transform self-doubt into confidence, master their emotions, and unlock t...
Dr. Adam Dorsay discusses how to achieve a state of being "super psyched" by connecting with oneself, others, the world, and something greater. He introduces the FEED framework (Flow, Energy, Education, Depth) for finding purpose and the "driveway test" for evaluating relationships. The conversation also covers overcoming imposter syndrome, reframing failure, and incorporating microdoses of connection into daily life for improved mental health and well-being.
In today’s episode, we discuss the science of nonverbal communication and trust with Dr. Abbie Maroño, a leading expert in social influence, trust-building, and body language analysis. As a PhD researcher and international consultant, Abbie specializes in uncovering the hidden cues that shape human interaction, from boardrooms to high-stakes negotiations. Join us as we explore the science of trust and influence with Dr. Abbie Maroño as she reveals the nonverbal signals that shape first impressio...
In today’s episode, we dive into the science of curiosity, exploration, and human potential with Alex Hutchinson, an award-winning journalist and expert in endurance and neuroscience. A former national team long-distance runner, Alex holds a PhD in physics from Cambridge and a master’s in journalism from Columbia. He has written extensively about the limits of human performance for Outside Magazine and The New Yorker. His latest book, The Explorer’s Gene: Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors,...
Dr. Jim Guinn discusses conflict resolution, focusing on identifying conflict styles (avoider, competitor, analyzer, collaborator, accommodator) and applying techniques (voice, detour, domino, momentum) for effective management. The episode highlights the importance of self-awareness, understanding others' styles, and addressing core issues to resolve conflicts in both personal and professional settings. Listeners gain practical strategies for predicting, preventing, and resolving conflict.
In today’s episode, we discuss the art of confident, compelling communication with Michael Chad Hoeppner, an expert in public speaking and personal development. As the founder and CEO of GK Training, Michael has spent over 15 years coaching leaders, including presidential candidates, Fortune 500 CEOs, and Ivy League deans, to deliver their messages with impact and authenticity. He’s also the author of Don’t Say Um: How to Communicate Effectively to Live a Better Life, a groundbreaking guide that...
In today’s episode, we discuss the art of exceptional communication and the traits that set extraordinary individuals apart with Joe Navarro, a globally recognized expert in nonverbal communication and human behavior. As a retired FBI Special Agent, Joe spent over 25 years mastering the ability to decode body language and behavioral cues in high-stakes situations. Since his retirement, he has authored multiple international bestsellers, including What Every Body Is Saying and The Dictionary of B...
In today's episode, we dive into the science of managing conflict and building resilience with Bob Bordone and Joel Salinas, two thought leaders in negotiation and emotional intelligence. Bob Bordone, a senior fellow and former professor at Harvard Law School, is the founder of the Harvard Negotiation and Mediation Clinical Program. Joel Salinas, a neurologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and an instructor at Harvard Medical School, brings a unique perspective from his research in brain sci...
In today's episode, we are bringing you a compilation of moments from the best interviews of 2024, covering everything from emotional mastery to productivity, building relationships, leadership, overcoming challenges, and living with purpose. Join us for a dynamic journey through some of the most impactful conversations from the past year, featuring insights from world-class experts across business, psychology, and personal development. How can understanding emotions transform your relationships...
In today's episode, we explore the transformative power of defiance and the role it plays in aligning with our values with Dr. Sunita Sah, a renowned expert in decision-making and organizational psychology. A professor, speaker, and consultant, Dr. Sah empowers leaders to navigate complex ethical landscapes and make principled choices. As the author of Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes, she redefines what it means to stand up for your values, offering practical tools to resist un...
In today’s episode, we discuss the science of human decision-making and behavior with Dan Ariely, a world-renowned expert in psychology and behavioral economics. As the James B. Duke Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Economics at Duke University, Dan has dedicated his career to uncovering the irrational patterns that drive our decisions. He’s the author of multiple bestselling books, including Predictably Irrational, The Upside of Irrationality, and The Honest Truth About Dishonesty, where ...
