Mervyn Fernando on First Nations Leadership, Negotiation & Fair Business Deals

🥋 How do First Nations leadership, resilience, and truth shape success in business, negotiations, and life?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we sit down with Mervyn Fernando, a proud Dunghutti and Kamilaroi First Nations leader, dedicated Christian, and founder of Claystone Marketing, Indigenous Medical Supplies, and AIQCAI Institute of Ethics. Merv shares his journey from a freelancer to a business leader, how he navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship, and why truth is the most powerful force in marketing and negotiation.🎯 Key Takeaways:Roll with the Punches: Whether in the boxing ring, business, or negotiations, setbacks are inevitable. Merv explains how staying composed, adapting, and keeping forward momentum are the key to long term success.Leadership is More Than a Title: Merv shares his transition from a solo entrepreneur to leading a team, discussing the balance between micromanagement, trust, and setting a strong example for others.Marketing as Influence in Negotiation: Merv reveals how the same three steps in marketing knowing your audience, crafting the right message, and choosing the right channel are key to successful negotiations.Protecting First Nations Businesses from Black Cladding: Merv shares how learning every aspect of his business gave him full control, helping him avoid pitfalls like black cladding. He leaves us with a thought provoking question: Have Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities negotiated a fair deal with this country?Follow Merv on LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/mervyn-fernandoThanks for listening, and we’ll see you next Thursday on Rolling Through Negotiations! OSS!Send in a question or comment via text. Support the RTN Podcast:If you find the podcast valuable and would like to support the work we’re doing  you can shout us a coffee. Every contribution helps us continue sharing important conversations around negotiation, community, leadership and resilience. Support is never required, but it is always deeply appreciatedDisclaimer: This podcast shares personal views and lived experiences only, it’s not legal, financial, or medical advice.If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.