Douglas Noll Reveals the Emotional Intelligence Skills Every Leader Needs

Join Brett Gilliland on the Circuit of Success Podcast as he sits down with Douglas Noll, nationally recognized peacemaker, mediator, author, and leadership expert. After spending more than 22 years as a successful trial lawyer, Douglas transformed his career to become a full-time peacemaker dedicated to resolving the world’s most difficult and emotionally charged conflicts. Holding a Master’s Degree in Peacemaking and Conflict Studies, he has mediated and arbitrated more than 1,200 cases, including complex construction, real estate, and high-value business disputes involving tens of millions of dollars. In this powerful conversation, Douglas explains why emotional intelligence is one of the most valuable leadership skills anyone can develop. He shares the neuroscience behind de-escalating conflict, why simply naming emotions can calm the brain, and how leaders can create trust by helping people feel heard. Drawing from his remarkable work training prison inmates, executives, government agencies, and organizations, he reveals practical techniques that improve communication, strengthen relationships, and transform difficult conversations into productive outcomes. Douglas is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and lecturer on advanced peacemaking and mediation. He is a Fellow of the International Academy of Mediators, a Fellow of the American College of Civil Trial Mediators, and serves on numerous national arbitration panels. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, business owner, parent, or someone striving to improve your communication and emotional intelligence, this episode is filled with actionable insights that can help you become a more effective leader, build stronger relationships, and navigate conflict with confidence. Watch the Full Episode Here!