CloseTheDeal.com Podcast - sales & marketing

Most LinkedIn outreach fails because it starts with a pitch instead of a conversation.What You'll Learn⏺  Why feedback outperforms cold pitching⏺ How to structure high response outreach⏺ When automation helps and when it hurts⏺ What cash collected really means in salesShort Episode SummaryJack Hayes joins Ewell Smith to break down a smarter approach to LinkedIn outreach. Instead of leading with a pitch, Jack explains how asking for feedback from experienced operators creates meaningful conversations that turn into revenue. The discussion explores automation, generational perspective, and what it really means to close the deal.Key Takeaways⏺ Connection is the foundation of LinkedIn, not volume⏺ Valuing expertise increases response rates⏺ Automation must support strategy, not replace it⏺ Revenue realized is the true definition of a closed dealGuest BioJack Hayes is the founder of Profit Jack Enterprises, a B2B growth partner that helps founders, consultants, and private equity operators use LinkedIn, email, and tech-backed systems to drive measurable growth. He began building businesses as a teenager and now works with high-level operators to modernize outreach without sacrificing connection.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros and business owners and leaders who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. He's the Publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Half of all businesses fail within five years, and the leading cause is lack of product demand.What You'll LearnWhy demand generation determines survivalHow owned, earned, and paid marketing differThe 3D framework for structured growthWhy authority and visibility matter more than everSaul Marquez joins Ewell Smith to unpack why businesses fail and how founders can build sustainable product demand. Drawing from two decades in healthcare sales and marketing, Saul explains how strategy must come before tactics and how visibility drives growth.Key TakeawaysDemand is engineered, not accidentalMarketing must start with strategyAuthority compounds over timePaid advertising should accelerate proven systemsGuest BioSaul Marquez is the founder and CEO of Outcomes Rocket, a healthcare-focused marketing and growth firm. With more than 20 years of experience in healthcare sales and marketing, including leadership roles in medical device companies, Saul helps health technology and provider organizations build demand through strategic positioning, authority building, and disciplined execution.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros and business owners and leaders who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. He's the Publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Networking works when people understand how referrals actually happen.What You'll Learn• How to become referable• How to create real connections• Why communication drives trustAngie Weidel explains the practical networking fundamentals most professionals never learn and how they directly impact referrals and revenue.Key Takeaways• Clarity drives referrals• Introductions matter more than leads• Communication skills are essentialGuest BioAngie Weidel is the founder of Blended Strategies, specializing in interpersonal communication and professional networking systems.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros and business owners and leaders who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. He's the Publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

LinkedIn has quietly become one of the most effective demand channels for CEOs who know how to use it.What You'll LearnHow to create LinkedIn demand efficientlyWhy CEO visibility drives revenueWhat metrics actually signal buying intentShort Episode SummaryMatt Hunt explains how founders can turn LinkedIn into a sales engine using lived experience, clear frameworks, and minimal time investment.Key TakeawaysVisibility multiplies leverageAuthority beats adviceSignals matter more than likesGuest BioMatt Hunt is the CEO of Demandii, helping founders and CEOs turn insight into demand through LinkedIn.Host BioThe Close The Deal Podcast is published and hosted by Ewell Smith. Ewell is a franchise advisor, the author of Your First Franchise Roadmap, and the publisher of Close The Deal, where he sits down with operators, founders, and deal makers to unpack how real business decisions actually get made. His work focuses on helping franchise candidates and business owners cut through noise, avoid bad deals, and close the right ones.For show notes and Matt Hunt's mindset quotes, visit closethedeal.com##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros and business owners and leaders who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. He's the Publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

There comes a point in every career and every life when confidence takes a hit. Sometimes what you need most isn't another strategy or tactic. It's belief.In this episode of Close The Deal, Ewell Smith sits down with Chris Widener to explore why belief is the foundation of leadership, personal growth, and long-term success. Chris shares stories from his own journey including rebuilding after major setbacks, the power of mentorship, and how someone else's belief can help you believe again.This conversation goes beyond business. It's about identity, integrity, mentorship, and becoming a voice instead of an echo.What You'll Learn• Why belief matters more than strategy in leadership• How mentorship accelerates growth• What it means to borrow belief until you can carry it yourself• Why integrity and kindness still win• How to become a voice instead of an echoAbout the GuestChris Widener is an internationally recognized speaker, author, and leadership coach. He has delivered more than 2,500 speeches worldwide, authored over 25 books translated into 14 languages, and was mentored by Jim Rohn and Zig Ziglar.Learn more at CloseTheDeal.com##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros and business owners and leaders who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. He's the Publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

AI is changing how buyers research, but not how they decide.What You'll Learn‣ Why buyers hesitate despite better information‣ How confidence drives decisions‣ What the last mile seller does differentlyVictor Antonio joins Close The Deal to explain how AI reshapes buyer behavior and why human judgment remains essential to closing complex sales.Key TakeawaysVictor Antonio joins Close The Deal to explain how AI reshapes buyer behavior and why human judgment remains essential to closing complex sales.Key TakeawaysConfidence outweighs informationAI accelerates research, not decisionsHuman judgment still closes dealsGuest BioVictor Antonio is a sales trainer and speaker who helps organizations understand buyer psychology and modern selling. ‣ Confidence outweighs information‣ AI accelerates research, not decisions‣ Human judgment still closes dealsGuest BioVictor Antonio is a sales trainer and speaker who helps organizations understand buyer psychology and modern selling.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros and business owners and leaders who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. He's the Publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Cold calling still works, and recording it live may be the fastest way to build real sales confidence and execution skill.What You'll Learn• Why cold calling still outperforms most outbound strategies• How recording calls live sharpens execution• What rejection teaches faster than training• Why visibility builds trust with buyersCold calling remains one of the most avoided yet effective sales skills. In this episode of Close The Deal, Sheikha Al-Otaibi explains why recording cold calls live on camera transformed her sales execution, built credibility, and accelerated real conversations into real revenue.Cold calling creates faster feedback than any other sales activityRecording calls live forces accountabilityRejection is information, not failureVisibility shortens the trust gap with prospects##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros and business owners and leaders who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. He's the Publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and author of Your First Franchise Roadmap. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Creativity does not fade with age or technology. It fades when creators stop creating.You Will Learn• How a veteran music producer used AI to create 50 songs in 90 days• Why momentum matters more than perfection for creators• How to use AI without losing your creative voice• What separates real creators from prompt pushers• How modern tools can unlock dormant ideasn this episode of Close The Deal, Ewell Smith sits down with veteran music producer and filmmaker Steve Scaffidi to explore creativity reinvention and responsible AI use. Steve shares how modern tools helped him unlock decades of unreleased songs, dramatically accelerate his output, and reconnect with the joy of creating.The conversation covers mindset, momentum, marketing lessons hidden in music, and why the most dangerous thing a creator can do is stop creating. This episode is a powerful reminder that tools do not replace talent. They amplify it.Key Takeaways• Momentum beats perfection• AI is a tool not a replacement• Ownership still matters• Speed creates leverage• Creativity rewards action##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

In this episode of Close The Deal, Sam Caruso, Vistage Chair,  shares why working on the business instead of in it leads to clearer thinking, better leadership decisions, and stronger long term growth. You will learnHow working in the business keeps leaders stuckWhy better questions lead to better decisionsHow to spot when you are doing the wrong workHow strong mindset improves sales and leadership clarityHow to step back and lead more effectivelyThis conversation explores mindset, trust, accountability, and how better questions change everything for business owners and sales leaders.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Ari reveals the system behind trust based selling and why the old way of selling no longer works. He shares the moment that changed everything, the process that stops ghosting, and how to use the One Call Trust Method to build trust fast. This episode will help you shift from chasing prospects to building clarity and confidence in every call.Key points• Why trust collapses faster than ever• The call that changed Ari's entire career• The top of the iceberg question• How to unpack the real problem• Why most salespeople give too much too fast• How to onboard clients instead of closing them##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Logic does not close deals. Emotion does.In this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast, Corey Cousins breaks down the biggest mistake salespeople make and why relying on logic, features, and data often causes prospects to hesitate, stall, or disappear.Corey is the Vice President of Sales at Destination Motivation, the number one sales and lead conversion incentive company in the nation. He has trained thousands of sales professionals and helped companies dramatically increase close rates, reduce cancellations, and create more feel good buying experiences.Inside this conversation, Corey shares how emotional drivers shape buying decisions, the power of the FAB method, and why linking a purchase to a positive emotional outcome creates trust and momentum. He also explains how Destination Motivation uses experience based incentives to stop ghosting and boost long term customer satisfaction.If you want to understand how people actually make decisions and how to create deeper connections that close more deals, this episode is for you.What You Will Learn• Why logic rarely wins and what truly motivates buyers• How emotions guide 90 percent of purchase decisions• How to apply the FAB method to spark better conversations• Why vacations and experiences create powerful emotional anchors• How to prevent cancellations with one simple shift• The mindset Corey wishes he learned earlier in his career• How sales teams can create trust faster without pressuresales emotional selling buyer psychology corey cousins destination motivation closing deals sales training sales mindset home services sales customer behavior fab method sales coaching increase close rate prevent cancellations##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Standing out has never mattered more. With AI Search rewriting the rules, the voices that rise to the top are the ones backed by real authority and real conversations. That is why podcasting has become such an essential tool for entrepreneurs and creators.In this episode, Ewell Smith sits down with Parker Olson, founder of PodPitch.com, whose wild journey from living in a tent to running product giveaways on airplanes has turned him into a standout guest across dozens of podcasts. Parker reveals how podcasting created unexpected opportunities, built lasting authority, and helped him connect with the right people at the right time.You will learn how to create a clear listener promise, how to use your story to cut through the noise, and why consistent podcast guesting builds credibility faster than nearly any other strategy today.You will learn:• How podcasting helps you stand out in a crowded market• Why long form conversations perform in AI Search• How to use your unique story to create attention• How podcast guesting builds trust and inbound opportunity• Simple steps to strengthen your voice and grow your businessIf you want more clarity, more authority and more opportunities, this episode shows you how to get there.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Want to raise your in-home close rate without high-pressure tactics? Dominic Caminata from Grosso University breaks down five proven steps that turn more kitchen-table conversations into confident yes decisions. Learn how to slow down to speed up, build trust fast, present with clarity, and use the Grosso method to win more jobs at higher margins.This episode gives you simple, repeatable tools to improve your close rate this week.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Are your billboard ads doing more harm than good? In this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast, veteran marketer and outdoor advertising expert Eric Murr breaks down the 11 most common billboard ad mistakes that drain budgets, confuse audiences, and sabotage sales.From bloated designs and misleading calls to action — to ignoring your digital reality — Eric shares real-world insights that could save you thousands and radically improve your ad performance.What You'll Learn:Why “more info” = less impact in billboard advertisingHow billboard ads drive (or destroy) your online trafficWhy color, contrast, and ego can ruin a campaignThe right role of billboards in your marketing funnelHow to combine outdoor + digital for massive ROIWhether you're a local business owner, franchisee, or ad buyer, this episode will change the way you see billboards — and give you the tools to use them right.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Why do so many founders hit a wall at one, three, or ten million in revenue? Sales strategist Nicole Vorkapic reveals the three hidden gaps that keep businesses from scaling—and how to fix them fast.In this episode, Close The Deal Podcast host Ewell Smith sits down with Nicole to unpack the patterns that cause sales to plateau and what it takes to create systems that scale. Drawing from her experience leading national sales teams managing over $120 million in revenue, Nicole breaks down the steps founders can take to move from chaos to consistency.If your business feels stuck, this conversation will show you how to replace gut-driven hustle with structure, clarity, and confidence.What You'll LearnThe Sales Productivity Gap — Why most sales reps only sell 28% of the time and how to fix it.The Customer Retention Leak — How to stop churn before it starts with intentional onboarding and follow-up.The Pipeline Predictability Problem — How to shift from gut-based forecasts to evidence-driven sales management.How to Build Systems That Scale — Why structure creates freedom and consistency for your entire team.The Three Diagnostic Questions every founder should ask to identify where their company is truly stuck.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Ever leave a networking event and realize no one remembers you? Ewell Smith shares a simple, low-cost trick that guarantees you'll stand out and stay remembered - long after the meeting ends.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Fear stops more deals than rejection ever will. In this episode of The Close The Deal Podcast, host Ewell Smith sits down with Angie Wedell, founder of Blended Strategies, to talk about courage, confidence, and the mindset that helps salespeople close with authenticity.Angie shares her “Five Minutes of Guts” philosophy — a practical way to overcome fear one moment at a time — and explains how understanding the DISC profile can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and boost results.You'll also learn why pursuing no can lead to more yeses and how managing your energy can be even more important than managing your time.If you're ready to turn fear into fuel and confidence into conversions, this episode is for you.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Most business owners and sales professionals make the same mistake when giving their 1-minute pitch at a networking meeting — they try to promote more than one thing.In this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast, Ewell Smith explains why a clear, single-message pitch is far more powerful. You'll learn how to grab attention, connect emotionally, and be remembered long after the meeting ends.Perfect for BNI, Chamber of Commerce, and local networking events.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Learn how top sales and marketing trainer Russell Richardson turned social media into a dealership goldmine - and why consistency closes more deals.What if you could stop chasing leads — and make customers come looking for you? In this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast, Ewell Smith sits down with automotive sales trainer Russell Richardson, known online as @RussFlipsWhips, who built a dealership empire by turning social media into a 24/7 lead engine.Russell shares how he went from washing cars in high school to generating 60 million monthly views by helping dealerships turn attention into sales. His system? Start. Learn. Stay consistent. Whether you're in automotive, real estate, or franchising — this mindset will change how you sell forever.

SEO isn't what it used to be—and AI is changing the rules faster than anyone expected. In this Close The Deal Podcastepisode, host Ewell Smith talks with Lonnie, founder of Local SEO Help, about how AI, Google updates, and voice search are transforming visibility for every business online.From website redesign mistakes that destroy rankings to why Google now rewards human expertise over algorithms, this conversation reveals what's working, what's broken, and how to stay ahead of the wave. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or business owner, this episode explains how to future-proof your brand in the age of artificial intelligence.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Sales is changing faster than most people realize, and artificial intelligence is leading the charge. In this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast, I sit down with Henry Hayes, founder of Disrupt Ready and adjunct professor at LSU, to unpack what AI really means for sales pros today.We dig into why buyers instantly spot self-serving sales tactics, how mentorship pulls your career forward, and why ignoring AI is like ignoring the internet back in the '90s. Henry shares practical ways to get started—plus the tools he recommends, including ChatGPT, Otter.ai, Fireflies, Heygen, and Synthesia.Henry's bottom line is clear: AI won't replace great salespeople, but it will replace those who refuse to adapt.If you're ready to cut out the boring work, sharpen your focus on customers, and thrive in a world that's changing fast, this conversation is for you.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Knowing how to overcome objections is one thing - but hearing it in action is where the real learning happens. In Part 2 of this Close The Deal conversation, sales trainer Lisa Laird role-plays the most common objections salespeople face from owners and demonstrates exactly how to respond with confidence.You'll hear Lisa walk through: > The perfect response when prospects ask you to “Send an email with prices” > What to say when you hear “I'm not interested” > Turning “It's not a good time” into a future meeting>  Rebuilding trust after a prospect's bad past experienceThis isn't theory - it's word-for-word practice you can adapt to your own sales conversations. If you want to sharpen your objection-handling skills and close more deals, this role-play session is pure gold.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with sales and marketing pros who help professionals and business owners drive more leads and close more deals. Close The Deal Podcast Supported by Your First FranchiseWe have gift for you for listening - grab a copy of Your First Franchise Roadmap.Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.

Every salesperson has heard it before: “Leave your card.” “Just email me.” “I'm not interested.”In this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast, sales trainer and 20-year insurance veteran Lisa Laird reveals how to flip the top 5 most common objections into opportunities that close.Lisa shares:Why confidence (not aggressiveness) is the key to salesHer GET Method for securing appointments fastHow to respond when a prospect wants you to “just email prices”The persistence strategy that turns “not a good time” into a meetingHow to rebuild trust after a prospect's bad past experienceLisa's mindset shifts and field-tested tactics apply to every industry. If you want to sharpen your objection-handling skills and boost your close rate, this episode is a masterclass.

At 79 years old, Harlon Pierce is still leading, innovating, and creating opportunities in the seafood industry. From Katrina to catfish, hear how he embraced change, built new markets, and mentored a generation of leaders.This milestone episode dives deep into crisis management, pricing strategies, and the power of mentorship.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

Hurricane season isn't just about weathering the storm - it's about surviving the insurance battle afterward. In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Frazier of Forefront 360 to reveal how preparation, documentation, and technology can save homeowners and businesses millions.Takeaways:Why most policyholders fail to prepare for claimsThe five most common insurance mistakesHow property data transforms the claims processReal-world examples of claims increased by 3x or moreHow businesses leverage property scans for safety and daily operationsWhy now is the most crucial time to take action##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

What if you could fast-track your franchise success by learning directly from someone already doing it? That's exactly what Painter1's mentorship program delivers.In this episode of the Close the Deal Podcast, host Ewell Smith talks with mentor Keith and two new franchisees, Mikeand Dallas, about their experience going from training to revenue in record time.What You'll Discover in This Episode:Why Painter1's mentor-led onboarding helps new owners gain confidence fastHow Mike leveraged his leadership background to build a scalable businessHow Dallas used his data-driven mindset to evaluate opportunities and win earlyPainter1's proprietary software for marketing automation, CRM, and analyticsThe power of community: why collaborative franchisees outperform competitorsWhether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, exploring home services, or curious about why Painter1's model works, this episode gives you an inside look at a franchise system designed to help you win.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

What if you could overhaul your life—and your business—in 30 days? At 61, Mike Pedersen did just that. On this episode of Close The Deal, he reveals how he left a comfortable life in Arizona to travel the world, and in the process, built a powerhouse B2B consulting practice. We talk sales systems, CEO blind spots, the 21-Day Revenue Sprint, and his viral “Decide Fast” app.

Are you done getting lowballed (screwed) by insurance companies?Ted Patestos was too—and now his franchise, Tiger Adjusters, helps homeowners and business owners fight back. With a model that puts franchisees in control and customers first, this low-overhead, high-impact business is rewriting the playbook on public adjusting.

What do you get when you mix UPS-level safety protocols, jungle animals, and teenagers learning to drive? A franchise that's saving lives and building a business around it.Zach Butler joins me to share the story of Jungle Driving—a radically better, more effective, and wildly memorable driver's ed franchise. Backed by 20+ years of data and a mission-focused mindset, this brand is making the roads safer for all of us.In this episode:✔ Zach's early failures and mindset reboot✔ The power of accountability and vision✔ Jungle Driving's fun but effective approach to training✔ Why the market is wide open for this model✔ The referral system that turns teens into marketersWhether you're a parent, entrepreneur, or franchise seeker—this is a ride you don't want to miss.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

Want more time, profit, and peace of mind in your business? Start with systems.On this episode of Close The Deal, Ewell Smith chats with Adi Klevit - founder of Business Success Consulting Group—about how entrepreneurs can document their way to freedom.You'll learn:How to identify the first process to documentThe 90-minute framework that changes everythingHow SOPs reduce training time and increase business valuationThe secret to franchising with confidenceIf you're serious about growth, don't miss this one.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

Is your business unintentionally taking a political stance? In this episode of Close The Deal, Ewell Smith sits down with Chris Peterson, author of Red and Blue Customers, to explore how political identity subtly (and sometimes explosively) affects consumer behavior.Chris shares fascinating insights about liberal vs. conservative buyers, real-life brand case studies, and why most businesses are completely unaware of the worldview signals they send. If you're a franchise leader, small business owner, or marketer—this is essential listening.

In this episode, Shayne Brown, founder of Diesel Barbershops, shares 10 success mindset quotes every franchise owner should know.From overcoming setbacks to leading creative teams, Shane has built a standout brand by doing things differently—and staying focused on what actually matters.You'll Hear:Why following the system is non-negotiableHow to lead artists (not just employees)What it takes to succeed in a creative, edgy franchise modelWhy Shane doesn't want to be the biggest—he wants to be the best##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

What if your stress isn't just a feeling—it's a signal from your nervous system? And what if there's a daily practice that could help rewire it?In this episode, Ewell Smith interviews Rachel Wixey, founder of the Wixey Center for Wellness and creator of workplace meditation programs. Rachel shares how she left her business career to pursue mindfulness full-time, the science behind why it works, and how anyone—yes, even you—can start a simple daily habit that improves mental and physical health.She even walks listeners through a short guided meditation you can try right away.

Tony Holbert is the CEO of Horsepower Brands—one of the fastest-growing home service franchise groups in the U.S.With over 400 franchise territories and nine brands under their umbrella (like Mighty Dog Roofing and Varsity Zone HVAC), Tony shares what makes franchisees succeed, why “going all in” matters, and how AI is changing how sales teams operate.

In this episode of the Close The Deal podcast, host Ewell Smith sits down with sales strategist Sean Lyden, founder of Systematic Selling. Sean breaks down why traditional high-pressure tactics are broken — and what to do instead.From boosting proposal conversion rates to smart upselling and increasing volume through networking and referrals, Sean shares practical, no-fluff strategies that work. Whether you're a founder, franchisee, or home services pro, this is your playbook for sales without the sleaze.

Chris Widener joins the Close The Deal podcast to share his powerful journey from personal adversity to international speaker, bestselling author, and faith-based mentor. With mentorship from icons like Zig Ziglar and Jim Rohn, Chris explores how belief, mentorship, and faith fuel success.We dive into how his early experiences—from working with the Seattle Supersonics to selling 20,000 flower pots at 14—shaped his purpose-driven approach to life and business. Chris also unpacks the heart behind his new book, The Coming American Revival, and his mission to mentor entrepreneurs with faith at the core.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

Thinking about investing in a franchise? Join Ewell Smith, author of Your First Franchise Roadmap and founder of CloseTheDeal.com, as he sits down with Newell Normand on WWL Radio. In this episode, Ewell shares expert insights on how franchising provides a proven playbook for success, career independence, and wealth-building. Learn why franchising isn't just about fast food, how veterans and corporate professionals are leveraging franchise systems, and the biggest mindset shifts needed to succeed. Don't let fear hold you back—get the clarity you need to take the next step.##Visit www.CloseTheDeal.com to see all episodes.Ewell Smith is talking with disruptors - entrepreneurs, franchisors, and marketing and sales pros. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking for ways to drive more leads and close more deals, this podcast is for you.

In this special episode of Close The Deal, I sit down with James Groves, co-founder of Hole in the Wall Franchise, to discuss how this drywall repair brand is scaling fast and delivering big profits. From standout branding to high-margin services and franchisee training that rocks, this episode breaks down why Hole in the Wall Franchise is a winning opportunity.

In this episode of the Close The Deal podcast - Franchise Profits episode, I sit down with Carlos Herrador, EVP of Franchise Operations at Marufuku Ramen. With 42 years of franchise experience, Carlos shares what makes a franchise thrive, how Marufuku Ramen became a powerhouse brand, and why quality and consistency are the keys to success.From franchise support to real estate selection and customer experience, we unpack everything you need to know about growing a successful restaurant franchise.

Michelle Henry, founder of Face Foundry Franchise, went from struggling with skincare solutions to revolutionizing the beauty industry. In this episode of Your First Franchise, we dive into her entrepreneurial mindset, growth strategies, and what it takes to build a successful franchise.She shares:✔️ How she overcame fear to launch and scale her business✔️ The secret to attracting loyal customers and franchisees✔️ Why Face Foundry Franchise is thriving in the beauty spaceIs franchise ownership right for you? Let's find out!

In this episode of Close The Deal, Eric Thompson shares the mindset shifts and leadership principles that help entrepreneurs and leaders multiply their success. As the founder of Lift Leadership and CMO of Snooze Mattress Company, Eric breaks down self-mastery, purpose-driven leadership, and force multipliers in business and life.

Balancing Career, Parenting & Stress: Dr. Kate Lund on ResilienceLife is a juggling act—especially for busy professionals and parents trying to manage careers, families, and personal well-being. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kate Lund, a clinical psychologist, best-selling author, and resilience expert, to talk about how to build mental toughness, reduce stress, and find balance in the chaos.We cover:✔️ The biggest challenges of career transitions and parenting✔️ How to quiet your stress response and stay grounded✔️ The role of self-care and building a strong support system✔️ Practical strategies for a resilient mindsetDr. Kate shares invaluable insights and real-world tools to help you navigate life's challenges with more clarity and confidence. Whether you're a parent, entrepreneur, or leader looking to manage stress and stay resilient, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

In this episode, Sam McCabe, Director of Loyola University's Entrepreneurship & Community Development Center, shares insights on launching and scaling a business.We dive into:✅ Why the right team is everything✅ The power of empathy in entrepreneurship✅ Lessons from the music industry that apply to business✅ How Loyola's program equips future entrepreneurs

In this episode, I sit down with Tom Hodgson, co-founder and brand president of Shrunk 3D, a one-of-a-kind entertainment franchise that's turning heads and making waves. Imagine a portable 3D scanning booth that captures stunningly detailed mini replicas of people, pets, and even sports mascots—whether for fun, business, or memorabilia.

Clarity Matters: The Key to Success

The Shutter House Franchise: A Low-Investment Opportunity

In this episode of Close the Deal, Josh York, the unstoppable founder and CEO of GymGuyz, returns to the podcast for a second time to share his game-changing insights. Known for his bold tactics and unshakable mindset, Josh talks about how to command attention, think creatively, and cultivate the discipline needed to succeed. From sending truck tires to CEOs to building one of the fastest-growing fitness franchises, Josh's story is packed with lessons on resilience, action, and thinking outside the box.If you're ready to stand out, build a success-driven mindset, and take action like never before, this episode is for you.

Julio Melara, CEO of Baton Rouge Business Report, shares why mindset is so important.This was actually our very first podcast under a different name - the Absolutely Mindset Podcast. It set the stage for every podcast episode we've done since. As we enter 2025 and close in on 100 episodes this year, we thought this would be an awesome way to kick off the year. 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast: 

Meridith Powell, Chair of the National Speakers Association reveals key insights from her new book, Thrive: Strategies to Turn Uncertainty to Competitive Advantage3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast: 

Stephanie Ruby shares  how Bio-One Franchise is a fast start up, low investment opportunity that makes big impact.3 Takeaways on This Episode of Close The Deal Podcast: