How to Untie a Balloon

A Negotiator's Guide to Avoid Popping Under Pressure

By: Ryan Dunlap, Kwame Christian - foreword

Narrated by: Eric Burgher

This game-changing book, How to Untie a Balloon, was written by former hostage negotiator and founder of Conflictish®, Ryan Dunlap. He guides listeners into the messy world of human interaction and behavior. Listeners will gain practical tips to navigate some of the problematic behaviors they experience with others that contribute to conflict.

Why now? In a world where getting along is basically a survival skill, this book isn't just a good listen—it's an absolute necessity. Packed with real stories and strategies straight from the interrogation room and the field, How to Untie a Balloon is your secret weapon to turn conflict into connection. Whether you're dealing with a grumpy coworker, a stubborn family member, or the ups and downs of modern love, this book is for you. Ready to flip the script on conflict? This book will help you get your 'ish together.

©2025 Ryan Dunlap (P)2025 Ascent Audio

How to untie a balloon

loved this book, it hit home for me in so many levels. I'm grateful for the insight of my own balloon.

Pressure

This book gave practical tools when dealing with conflict and situations that may cause a person to ‘Pop’ in everyday life. I wish it had been narrated by the author. However, the person who did narrate the book did a good job. It is a must read.

The importance of emotional and mental systems

I like how Ryan set everything out clearly and showed the relevance of all aspects that affect communication under pressure. The only thing that disappointed me was the lack of an accompanying PDF with the questions asked in each chapter. The narrator was perfect for the subject of the book. That being said the author would have also been perfect too.

Leadership/Character

This book is a great read for leaders, that provides prospective and tools for both stress management and conflict resolution.

Deep and insightful

The thoughts shared are deep and insightful. It helped me start to recognize how I respond to pressure and which ultimately helped me improve immediately.