Former police detective, hostage negotiator and international peacekeeper J. Paul Nadeau spent more than 30 years working with victims of crime and perpetrators and learning from top experts in abuse situations, murder investigations, hostage-takings, terrorist attacks and human behavior in general. Over the course of his career, Paul talked hostage-takers into giving themselves up and murderers into admitting to their crimes. And because of his extensive training and his unique approach to connecting with people of all walks of life and under every circumstance, his life was saved by a terrorist during a terrorist attack in the Middle East. Paul understands the importance of connecting to others, without judgment, prejudice, or fear so that we can each contribute to helping the world become a better and safer place. He reflects this compassion in each of the books he writes, each seminar he runs, each life-coach motivational session he has and in each of his global keynotes.
As accomplished as Paul’s career has been – and continues to be, his life has been equally influenced by events in his youth that were beyond his control. As a survivor of severe physical and emotional abuse by an alcoholic father, he experienced firsthand the loss of hope and destructive internal dialogue that can immobilize a person as effectively as any prison. Suffering from low self-esteem, anxiety and depression at an early age, Paul experienced a moment in grade 7 that turned his life around and led him to confidently take control of his life. He credits that moment for providing him the personal power to achieve many successes, both personally and professionally. He became the policeman he promised himself he’d become to arrest men like his father, and he has made it his life’s mission to guide others through the thoughts and experiences in their lives that hold them, hostage, just as his thoughts had once done to him. He now speaks to thousands of people-in large audiences and one on one about what they can do not only to overcome their fears and challenges, but also to confidently step forward into a new, happier, and more fulfilled life.
Paul’s success in helping others led him to write the best-selling acclaimed book, “Take Control of Your Life,” published by HarperCollins Canada. Many have said that Paul’s stories are right out of Hollywood blockbuster movies, with thought-provoking, inspirational, and illuminating lessons that have you begging for more. Not only are Paul’s stories captivating, but many have reached out to Paul to thank him for changing their outlook on life and for providing newfound hope to them. The reviews to date from readers have been overwhelming and many have already benefited from the direction Nadeau provides from his insights. One reader credits Paul’s book for saving her from committing suicide. It is with this kind of passion that Paul presents his keynotes on negotiating, conflict resolution and mental wellness.
Paul also authored Dammit, Just Ask, a book on how to ask and negotiate for what you want in life and in business.