Mastering Influence and Leadership: My Insights from the FCPA Compliance Report Podcast
Jennifer B Gardner
March 20, 2025
Influence, persuasion, and connection—these aren’t just buzzwords; they’re the foundation of effective leadership and communication.
Recently, I had the pleasure of joining @TomFox on the award-winning FCPA Compliance Report podcast to dive into the art of influence, storytelling, and emotional intelligence. As a trial lawyer and entrepreneur, I’ve spent years honing these skills when negotiating and in the courtroom, but the truth is, they’re just as crucial in business, leadership, and life.
Watch the full episode here:
My journey into law and leadership has been anything but traditional. From running my own law practice to helping professionals craft compelling narratives, I’ve seen firsthand how influence shapes outcomes. Whether you’re persuading a jury, leading a team, or negotiating a business deal, understanding how to truly connect with people can be a game-changer.
Logic and data are important, but if you really want to move people, you have to tap into emotions. That’s where empathic communication comes in. By understanding human psychology and using emotionally resonant messaging, you can inspire action, build trust, and create lasting impact. This is especially true in corporate compliance, where making policies and ethics relatable—not just rules on a page—can transform company culture.
The Art of Storytelling in Legal and Corporate Settings
Stories are powerful. They help us make sense of complex ideas, connect on a deeper level, and persuade more effectively. In my legal career, I’ve relied on storytelling to bring cases to life, making sure juries don’t just understand the facts but feel them.
The same applies in business—if you can craft a compelling narrative, you can cut through the noise and make your message stick.
Somatics, Mindfulness, and Leadership
Leadership isn’t just about what you say—it’s also about how you show up. Your body language, presence, and energy all play a role in how others perceive and respond to you. That’s why I incorporate somatics and mindfulness into my leadership coaching. When you’re self-aware and present, you naturally become a more confident and persuasive communicator.
The ability to influence isn’t reserved for lawyers or public speakers—it’s a skill everyone can develop. Whether you’re leading a team, pitching an idea, or navigating a difficult conversation, influence is about understanding your audience, combining facts with compelling narratives, and staying resilient under pressure. These are skills that anyone can hone, and I love helping professionals unlock their full potential.
Exploring the Art of Influence Program
I’m passionate about helping professionals harness the power of influence, which is why I created The Art of Influence program. This training is designed to help you refine your business communications and storytelling, develop persuasive communication skills, and elevate your leadership presence. If you’re ready to take your ability to connect and lead to the next level, this program is for you.
I had an amazing time discussing these topics on the FCPA Compliance Report Podcast with @TomFox, and I’m excited to share more with you. Stay tuned for key takeaways from the episode, along with exclusive video clips and actionable insights, on my LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook pages.