Beyond Numbers: The Art of Interrogating Executives for Due Diligence in Investing

In the realm of investing, due diligence is typically associated with meticulously examining financial statements and running numbers to better comprehend a company’s potential. However, there is another aspect of due diligence that is often neglected – the significance of interrogating senior executives and employees to ascertain the veracity of a business.

In this episode of Odd Lots, we have the privilege of speaking with Phil ‘Dick’ Houston, a seasoned CIA officer known as the human lie detector. Phil has authored a book on identifying lies and has collaborated closely with entrepreneur Brad Jacobs on due diligence for senior hires and potential investments.

During the episode, Phil shares his strategies for detecting deceptive behavior and explains how these techniques can be applied to the corporate world. By asking probing questions and scrutinizing nonverbal cues, Phil is able to uncover inconsistencies and falsehoods in people’s narratives. His expertise in spotting lies has proven invaluable to Brad Jacobs in making informed decisions about business pursuits.

By listening to this episode of Odd Lots, listeners can gain valuable insights into the importance of thorough due diligence beyond merely analyzing financial data. Phil’s proficiency in identifying lies can help investors make more informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls in the corporate world. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to learn more about how to navigate the complexities of due diligence in investing.