In this episode of Policy Chats, Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis joins host Dori Pham to discuss his career in diplomacy and key moments in U.S. foreign policy. Drawing on his experience in Cuba and at the United Nations, he explains how trust, emotional intelligence, and negotiation shape diplomatic outcomes. The conversation explores the 2015 U.S.–Cuba normalization, challenges in global conflict such as U.S.–Iran tensions, and why diplomacy remains essential in preventing escalation. The episode concludes with practical advice for students interested in pursuing a career in the foreign service.🔍 Topics Covered:- Ambassador DeLaurentis’s path to becoming a career diplomat- How Georgetown SFS and Columbia SIPA shape diplomatic training- U.S.–Cuba relations and the 2015 normalization process- Comparing bilateral vs. multilateral negotiations- Diplomacy in times of conflict, including U.S.–Iran tensions- Lessons from the Cuban Missile Crisis and nuclear negotiations- Career advice for students interested in the foreign service📍 This episode is produced by the UCR School of Public Policy and features insights that align with our motto: “Solutions for the Region, Solutions for the World.”Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the interviewers and guests alone and do not reflect the official positions of the UC Riverside School of Public Policy or the University of California, Riverside.🎧 Guest Speaker: Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, former U.S. Ambassador for Special Political Affairs at the United Nations and former Chargé d’Affaires in Cuba🎙️ Interviewed by: Dori Pham, Host of Policy Chats 🎵 Music by Vir Sinha🔗 Learn more: spp.ucr.edu/podcast📱 Follow us on Instagram: @ucr_spp👉 Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode exploring how policy shapes our future.