From The Archives: Eric Maddox

In this episode of the GDA Podcast, Gail Davis and Kyle Davis sit down with Army Ranger turned interrogator Eric Maddox, who played a key role in the capture of Saddam Hussein and later wrote Mission: Black List about the experience.

Eric takes listeners inside the search for Saddam and explains how an ineffective interrogation approach forced him to rethink everything he had been taught. By learning to listen at a deeper level, understand the person across from him, and build genuine trust, Eric uncovered the intelligence that ultimately led to Saddam’s capture.

Key topics include:

• Eric’s journey from Army Ranger to military interrogator
• The chain of intelligence that ultimately led to Saddam Hussein
• Why traditional interrogation techniques weren’t working
• How empathy and connection helped Eric build trust with prisoners
• Removing distractions and biases to become a better listener
• Why understanding someone can be one of the strongest drivers of influence
• Applying empathy-based listening to leadership, sales, and business
• Using better questions and elicitation techniques to gain greater transparency

Eric’s story shows that the real power behind his success wasn’t force—it was listening. The ability to understand another person can lead to better information, stronger trust, and greater influence.

Visit gdaspeakers.com to learn more about bringing Eric Maddox to your next event.