A CIA Officer’s Insights on Detecting Deception in Due Diligence

As a seasoned CIA officer and author of a book on detecting lies, Phil ‘Dick’ Houston has developed a unique perspective on the importance of questioning and interrogating senior executives and employees during the due diligence process. In this episode of Odd Lots, we had the opportunity to speak with Phil about his approach for identifying deceptive behavior and how it can be applied in the corporate world.

Phil’s extensive experience in detecting lies has taught him that asking the right questions is key to uncovering hidden truths. He emphasizes the importance of challenging assumptions and looking beyond surface-level information when conducting due diligence. By doing so, investors and business leaders can make more informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

In our conversation with Phil, he shares valuable insights into his methodology for detecting deception, which involves paying close attention to body language, tone of voice, and word choice. He also stresses the importance of listening actively and asking follow-up questions to clarify any ambiguities or inconsistencies in responses.

Overall, Phil’s expertise in detecting lies has provided him with a unique perspective on how due diligence can be improved by asking the right questions and challenging assumptions. By applying these strategies in their own due diligence processes, investors and business leaders can gain a deeper understanding of a company’s business model and make more informed decisions. To learn more about Phil Houston’s strategies for detecting deception and how they can be utilized in the world of business and finance, be sure to listen to this episode of Odd Lots on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Odd Lots newsletter for additional insights and updates on future episodes.