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Dr. Mark Goulston (1948–2023) was a renowned psychiatrist, executive coach, author, and communication expert best known for his groundbreaking work in empathy, leadership, and crisis intervention. A professor of psychiatry at UCLA for more than 25 years, he dedicated his career to helping people build trust, resolve conflict, and communicate more effectively in high-stakes situations.

Drawing on his experience training FBI and law enforcement hostage negotiators, Dr. Goulston developed a unique approach known as “surgical empathy,” applying negotiation and crisis-management techniques to business leadership, personal relationships, and organizational culture. He was also a respected authority on suicide prevention, developing methods that helped individuals break through emotional barriers and find meaningful connection and support.

As founder of The Goulston Group, he advised CEOs, entrepreneurs, and Fortune 500 executives on leadership, communication, and decision-making. He was the bestselling author of Just Listen, Get Out of Your Own Way, and Talking to Crazy, books that have influenced leaders and readers around the world. His insights were featured in Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, Oprah, and numerous other media outlets.