Podcast appearances and mentions of Ben Wright

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski celebrates International Podcast Day with the 800th Episode of this podcast!  We share an ALL NEW speech he recently gave to the regional marketing staff of Special Olympics about his lessons as a Podcasting Legend within the Special Olympics Movement. Then, Daniel transitions into an encore conversation with fellow Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Leader Jose Moreno, where they discuss the art of podcasting about podcasting,  sharing some of our best tips for you to get into podcasting yourself!

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Team podcast, Ben Wright tackles the challenge of hiring and retaining top B2B sales talent during uncertain economic times. He highlights the need for adaptability and continuous learning as global markets slow, urging leaders to seek candidates who can thrive under pressure. Ben introduces three key strategies: testing for grit, assessing a salesperson's ability to connect, and verifying strengths through referee checks. His insights emphasise the value of resilience and relationship-building in sustaining sales success. The episode reinforces Ben's commitment to equipping teams to not only withstand adversity but excel in it.Key Takeaways: • Focus on identifying candidates who have demonstrated resilience and determination in various aspects of their lives, not just in their professional experiences.• Determine if the candidate is someone that customers would want to buy from, focusing on traits such as trustworthiness and relationship-building capabilities.• Use the critical question, “Would you hire them again?” during reference checks to gain objective insights into the candidate's suitability.• Recognize the challenge of hiring professionals who may not have faced difficult sales environments and find ways to assess their adaptability.• Encourage an ongoing commitment to training and development among sales teams to help navigate complex economic shifts.Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro2:00 Hiring5:00 3 Areas To Focus on With Hiring5:45 Recruiting For Skill6:55 Grit10:10 Would You Buy From That Person?12:55 Validating The Decision15:59 Recap17:08 OutroRate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

In this thirteenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Carrie & Kalib McCoy, a husband and wife self-advocates. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this fourteenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Lawanda Grant.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this twelfth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Timotheus (TJ) Gordon from the Institute on Disability & Human Development at UIC.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this eleventh episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Marijane Sheridan from Sertoma Star.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this tenth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Jeffrey Matlock from Sertoma Star. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this ninth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Iris Pickens. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Teams podcast, Ben Wright explores the craft of storytelling in sales, using case studies as a powerful vehicle for connection. Ben demonstrates how this timeless approach continues to capture and engage clients, even in an era shaped by AI-driven content. He shares valuable insights on building narratives that truly resonate, urging sales professionals to reclaim the art of delivering stories that leave a lasting impact. This episode delivers practical strategies designed to empower teams and elevate sales performance through the enduring art of storytelling.Key Takeaways: Storytelling remains an essential sales tool, even as AI technologies advance.Effective case studies can significantly bolster both marketing and sales efforts.A practical three-part format for case studies: identify the opportunity/problem, describe the solution, and showcase the results.Sales teams can create 20 case studies in under an hour with a structured approach.Reinforcing storytelling skills through case studies can elevate sales team performance and customer engagement.Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro1:30 Story Telling3:29 Creating Great Case Studies: Leaning on Story Telling4:41 Importance of Case Studies 6:18 Format to Generate Case Studies7:45 Audiences Engaging on Case Studies8:30 Making Easy To Read Format9:00 Making Easy To Read Format: The Opportunity or Problems10:48 Making Easy To Read Format: What Do You Do About It11:51 Making Easy To Read Format:: The Outcomes That We Created15:25 Doing Case Studies in 60 Minutes19:24 OutroRate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

In this all-new Unified at Work Series episode, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Nefertiti “Neffie” S. Fisher, HR Operations Assistant Manager at United Airlines and ORD Bridge Disability BRG Director, to talk about The Arc's Wings for All® event hosted at Chicago O'Hare on August 16, 2025. Neffie shares highlights from the day, powerful behind-the-scenes stories, and the heartwarming moment when a young participant overcame his fears to board the plane. You'll also hear how United's Bridge BRG and The Arc are creating more inclusive air travel experiences for families with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This inspiring conversation will leave you encouraged to take simple steps toward building inclusion—in the airport, workplace, and beyond. Episode 794 ShowNotes & Links Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

In this all-new Unified at Work Series episode, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Nefertiti “Neffie” S. Fisher, HR Operations Assistant Manager at United Airlines and ORD Bridge Disability BRG Director, to talk about The Arc's Wings for All® event hosted at Chicago O'Hare on August 16, 2025. Neffie shares highlights from the day, powerful behind-the-scenes stories, and the heartwarming moment when a young participant overcame his fears to board the plane. You'll also hear how United's Bridge BRG and The Arc are creating more inclusive air travel experiences for families with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This inspiring conversation will leave you encouraged to take simple steps toward building inclusion—in the airport, workplace, and beyond.

In this eighth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Carl Nave from Macon Resources. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

Drama from 77 years agoFirst, a look at the events of the day.Then, The Adventures Of Sam Spade; Detective starring Howard Duff,  originally broadcast September 19, 1948, 77 years ago, The Hot One-Hundred-Grand Caper.  A wealthy woman hires Spade to help her with her husband who is being blackmailed. Spade follows the husband to a casino where he loses $100,000 at the roulette wheel!Followed by Nick Carter, Master Detective starring Lon Clark, originally broadcast September 19, 1948, 77 years ago, The Case Of The Homely Bride.  A heartless scheme to marry for wealth ends in murder. Then, The Man Called X starring Herbert Marshall, originally broadcast September 19, 1948, 77 years ago, Madagascar Physicist.  A nuclear physicist is on the edge of a breakthrough but he's in danger...Followed by Escape, originally broadcast September 19, 1948, 77 years ago, The Man Who Could Work Miracles starring Ben Wright.  The classic H. G. Wells story about the bloke who could. Finally, Fibber McGee and Molly, originally broadcast September 19, 1954, 71 years ago, Your Three Minutes are Up.  Fibber, Molly and Teeny get stuck in the phone booth at Kramer's drugstore. Thanks to Laurel for supporting our podcast by using the Buy Me a Coffee function at http://classicradio.streamIf you like what we do here, visit our friend Jay at http://radio.macinmind.com for great old-time radio shows 24 hours a day

In this seventh episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Erika Kissel from Just a Dollop. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

On this episode we bring you “More Monsters” with an early radio adaptation of Daphne du Maurier's classic short story The Birds. Long before Alfred Hitchcock turned it into a famous film, the story was produced on the radio series Escape, starring British actor Ben Wright. John sets the stage with some background on the show and the tricky business of preserving old recordings. The story is a chilling tale of a family on the English coast facing wave after wave of birds that seem to be growing more aggressive and more organized than anyone could have imagined. Visit our website: https://goodolddaysofradio.com/ Subscribe to our Facebook Group for news, discussions, and the latest podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/881779245938297 Our theme music is "Why Am I So Romantic?" from Animal Crackers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KHJKAKS/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_MK8MVCY4DVBAM8ZK39WD

In this sixth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Bridget Brown from Engage IL Leadership Team.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this fifth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Nicholas T from Envision Unlimited. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Teams podcast, Ben Wright tackles the common challenge of prospects going silent during the sales process. He shares practical strategies to break the cycle of ghosting, reminding listeners of the importance of resilience and persistence in sales. With over 20 unique methods, Ben explains how to recapture attention through varied call times, social media engagement, and personalised outreach. This episode equips sales professionals with both tactical tools and broader business strategies to enhance client relationships and drive success. Key Takeaways: Apply a mix of approaches such as SMS, video calls, and social media outreach to break away from standard communication patterns and re-establish contact with prospects. Send tailored emails, provide solutions to issues outside the immediate sales discussion, or organise mutual introductions to restore dialogue. Draw on senior-level conversations or have a senior colleague conduct quality check calls to rekindle a prospect's interest. Use a carefully timed breakup message to prompt a reply, ensuring it reflects genuine intent if communication is to cease, thereby preserving credibility. Offer small but thoughtful gifts or handwritten notes of thanks to strengthen relationships and show authentic appreciation. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:17 Getting Ghosted 6:33 Contact Customers Different Times During The Day 7:24 Sending a SMS with Your Name 8:29 SMS with Video 10:00 Call for Quality Check 12:05 Social Media Outreach 12:55 Mutual Introduction 14:06 Solving A Unrelated Problem for the Customer 15:03 Sending Gift 16:35 Posting 17:25 Inviting Customers To Events 17:45 Tagging Customers on Social Media Posts 18:06 Getting Across a Case Study 18:32 Setting Up What the Customer Wants 19:08 Recap 20:55 Health and Fitness Tip 21:52 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

As we enter a massive week in US Soccer David brings in a massive acquisition on loan. Ben Wright (615 Soccer) joins as cohost to talk through the bevy of massive stories around the game. They start with the breaking news around Caleb Porter's dismissal in New England talking through what it means for the club & the two time MLS Cup winner. Then they recap a Saturday that was the highest scoring weekend in MLS history, put to bed eliminated sides TFC & ATL (off the back of their 5-4 loss), and finally the preview of the big USOC semifinals coming up.2:00 Revs Fire Caleb Porter19:03 Revs Coaching Options28:30 Whitecaps Roar Back Into The Shield Race On Mueller's Birthday35:40 FCC Bounce Back Stoppage Time Win42:30 MIN Big Win In San Diego47:40 CTL Tie MLS Winning Streak Record Over Miami1:00:03 ATL Season Reaction & Offseason Preview1:08:03 TFC Season Reaction & Offseason Preview1:13:00 USOC Semifinal Preview

In this heartwarming episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined by United Airlines Captain Tait Wasser to reflect on the powerful impact of The Arc's Wings for All event held on August 16, 2025, at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Captain Tait shares what it was like to participate in this inclusive airport rehearsal program designed for individuals with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities. From behind-the-scenes moments to one young passenger's transformative journey from fear to flying — this episode showcases how partnerships like United's Bridge Disability Business Resource Group are helping make air travel more inclusive. Together, we dive into what inclusion means in the skies, the training and empathy required to support all travelers, and how we can all play a role in making the world more accessible.

In this heartwarming episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined by United Airlines Captain Tait Wasser to reflect on the powerful impact of The Arc's Wings for All event held on August 16, 2025, at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Captain Tait shares what it was like to participate in this inclusive airport rehearsal program designed for individuals with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities. From behind-the-scenes moments to one young passenger's transformative journey from fear to flying — this episode showcases how partnerships like United's Bridge Disability Business Resource Group are helping make air travel more inclusive. Together, we dive into what inclusion means in the skies, the training and empathy required to support all travelers, and how we can all play a role in making the world more accessible.

In this fourth episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Deanna E from Envision Unlimited. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this third episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with April McHenry and Leanne Mull who have been at the first SUSO 20 years ago. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this second episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talk to Eva Kott and her parents Michael and Alena about her self-advocacy story, first-time speaking at this conference, and her empowering story.  We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this first episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast LIVE Coverage, host Daniel Smrokowski talks with Speaker, Comedian and Television Writer Zach Anner about his Keynote Presentation “Joyful Grit: Turning Setbacks Into Setups” and about his role as a television writer on the hit ABC sitcom “Speechless. We're excited to announce that Special Chronicles provided exclusive LIVE and On-Demand Coverage of the The Arc of Illinois #SUSO2025 – the annual Speak Up and Speak Out Summit that celebrates the voices of people with disabilities. You'll hear directly from disability self-advocates, families, speakers, and professionals as they share their voices on leadership, advocacy, and inclusion. This annual self-advocacy conference empowers people with disabilities to speak up for themselves, take action, and create positive change in their communities. Let's Speak Up. Let's Speak Out. Let's Be Heard. Join The Conversation

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Team podcast, host Ben Wright is joined by Christian Hansen to explore what it takes to stand out and influence with impact in today's competitive market. Christian offers a compelling perspective on how professionals can position themselves to be chosen more often, highlighting the vital role of communication and authentic connection. Blending personal experiences with professional expertise, Christian introduces the concept of the “Influence Mindset” — the fusion of competence and genuine rapport to build lasting influence. He explains how subtle but powerful shifts in communication, from simply sharing knowledge to providing insight and wisdom, can set sales professionals apart. About the Guest: Christian Hansen is a globally recognised author and authority on shaping mindsets within sales environments. With extensive experience partnering with leading organisations worldwide, he has developed a profound understanding of the factors that enable both individuals and businesses to truly stand out. His acclaimed book, The Influence Mindset for Sales Acceleration, achieved number one bestseller status and has been endorsed by LinkedIn as an essential guide to modern marketing. Key Takeaways: Influence is achieved through a balance of competence and authentic connection, rather than relying on skill alone. Recognise the transition from performance-driven to selective environments, and tailor your approach to be chosen by demonstrating both insight and connection. Stand out by shifting your communication from showcasing experience and skills to offering genuine insight and wisdom. Build meaningful relationships through empathetic listening, ensuring others feel truly heard and understood. Elevate team performance by fostering a culture of positive recognition and genuine appreciation for individual contributions. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:20 Guest Introduction 3:12 Tacos 5:06 Being Chosen Often 5:55 Positioning Ones Selves To Be Chosen 8:35 The EQ Brain Hacks 13:43 Creating Authenticity 15:50 Standing Out In A Crowded Marketplace 18:35 Growing the Team and the Business 21:19 Guest Socials 21:55 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

✈️ In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's Unified at Work Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Samantha Alloway, Executive Director of The Arc of Illinois, for an inspiring conversation about the Wings for All program. Recorded following the August 16, 2025 Wings for All event at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in partneship with United Airlines' Bridge Disability Business Resource Group, this episode dives into: What Wings for All is and why it matters for travelers with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). Behind-the-scenes stories from the event at O'Hare. Heartwarming family moments, including a child who overcame fears to board an aircraft for the first time. The importance of inclusion in airports, workplaces, schools, and communities.

Ben Wright and guests analyse Keir Starmer's reshuffle and the Reform UK conference.

In this episode of Stronger Sales Teams, Ben Wright unpacks the craft of building impactful case studies that fast-track the sales cycle. He begins by addressing the common challenge of drawn-out sales processes and stresses the importance of refining internal operations to boost team performance. Ben underscores the power of storytelling in earning client trust, noting that well-written case studies and authentic testimonials can be pivotal in shaping buying decisions and strengthening customer confidence. With a focus on strategic use of SEO-driven keywords and structured storytelling, listeners will gain clear insights into creating compelling content that resonates with audiences, builds credibility, and ultimately accelerates deal closures. Key Takeaways: Storytelling and well-prepared case studies can build trust and expedite the sales process by establishing credibility with potential customers. Effective case studies should follow a structured format, focusing on the situation, response, and outcome to clearly articulate the value proposition. Building a varied library of over 20 case studies helps sales teams address different customer segments, market needs, and scenarios. Incorporating video testimonials and client quotes can further enhance the impact of written case studies, offering multiple formats for customer engagement. Making room in your schedule to create these resources is key; starting with streamlined video recordings can efficiently generate content for case studies. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:13 Moving Customers Through The Buying Cycle Quicker 5:15 The Power of Story Telling 6:43 Setting Up Strong Case Studies 10:37 Formatting Case Studies 12:15 Structure of Case Studies 15:15 Examples of Case Studies 20:29 Recap 22:19 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

On this encore Special Chronicles Podcast episode: host Daniel Smrokowski shares his keynote from the 2020 Speak Up and Speak Out Summit, presented by The Arc of Illinois and funded by the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. Hear the origin story of Special Chronicles, nearly two decades of disability media storytelling, tips for creating social change, live audience Q&A, and musician Peter Leidy's song “Speak Up and Speak Out.” This episode originally aired on November 17, 2020. Episode 783 ShowNotes & Links Learn more about The Arc of Illinois' Speak Up and Speak Out Summit, a 3 day conference for people with disabilities Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

Ben Wright previewing the new term in parliament.

In this episode of Stronger Sales Teams, Ben Wright is joined by Carmen Williams. Drawing on her extensive expertise and industry experience, Carmen highlights the pivotal role virtual assistants play in removing administrative burdens, allowing sales professionals to focus squarely on revenue-generating activities. Together, Ben and Carmen delve into the wide-ranging benefits of integrating virtual assistants, from accelerating lead response times and managing CRMs to streamlining vital sales processes. About the Guest: Carmen Williams is the founder of Global Teams, an organisation dedicated to helping business leaders – particularly sales managers – unlock their team's full potential by reducing non-revenue generating tasks through the strategic use of virtual assistants. With years of experience across a wide range of industries, Carmen has guided businesses in streamlining processes and enabling their teams to concentrate on high-value, growth-focused activities. Her expertise is especially recognised in deploying skilled virtual resources from the Philippines and South Africa, fostering stronger productivity and efficiency within sales environments. Key Takeaways: Virtual assistants are an invaluable asset for optimising sales processes by handling admin and non-core tasks, allowing sales teams to focus more on building customer relationships and closing deals. Properly scoping the responsibilities for virtual assistants is crucial for success. Clear definition of tasks ensures that virtual assistants can meet expectations and deliver tangible value. Cultural understanding and regular communication with virtual assistants can strengthen integration and contribute to their long-term retention. The contact rate and speed in responding to leads can significantly impact sales effectiveness, with virtual assistants playing a critical role in improving these metrics. Businesses new to employing virtual assistants should start small, refine their processes, and remain open to learning from initial mistakes to realise long-term productivity gains. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:21 Guest Introduction 2:47 Carmen's Business 4:13 Virtual Assistant's Help To Focus On Customers 7:17 Touch Points To Close Deals 8:30 Common Mistakes Virtual Assistants Make 10:51 Getting the Most Out Of Virtual Assistants 12:40 Mindset Challenges Around Virtual Assistants 16:03 Hot Spots For Virtual Resources 17:17 Where To Start In Hiring Virtual Assistants 19:28 Guest's Socials 20:23 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

In this powerful episode, podcast host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with author and disability advocate Crystal Williams, who shares her journey of growing up with Kabuki Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. Crystal discusses her new memoir, Finding My True Happiness: Life, Love and Everything In Between, and opens up about childhood surgeries, navigating hearing loss, and learning to live boldly as her authentic self.

In this episode of Stronger Sales Teams podcast, Ben Wright underscores the importance of recognising the unique learning styles of each team member, highlighting how this understanding can accelerate professional growth and significantly boost overall business performance. From unpacking the subtleties of cognitive and kinaesthetic learning to demonstrating the effective use of AI tools, Ben offers a comprehensive toolkit for sales leaders determined to foster a culture of continual improvement and engagement. By championing sustainable learning frameworks, developing personalised growth plans, and harnessing the power of technology, this episode equips sales leaders with the skills and insights to drive substantial growth, enhance team satisfaction, and sustain long-term success. Key Takeaways: Recognise and adapt to the diverse learning styles within the sales team to maximise their capacity to absorb, retain, and apply new knowledge effectively. Schedule regular, focused training sessions, ensuring a distraction-free environment to foster optimal engagement and long-term knowledge retention. Leverage AI-driven tools to accelerate and enhance learning outcomes by developing tailored study plans, resources, quizzes, and performance analytics. Define clear post-training action points and establish long-term strategies to ensure newly acquired skills are embedded and sustained within the team. Promote the use of otherwise idle periods — such as commuting or waiting — for personal development, encouraging a culture of continuous growth beyond formal training settings. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:20 Ben's Burst of Energy 2:25 Helping Teams Learn Faster 3:56 Ways The People Learn 4:25 Learning by Doing and Learning By Listening 7:00 Learning Styles 10:0 Traditional Learning Styles 12:25 Setting Up A Learning Structure 16:00 Prioritising Where We Train 18:32 Using A.I. Tools To Speed Up Learning 23:40 Health and Fitness Tip 24:48 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

In this episode of The Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Michelle Mark, Director of Athlete Leadership and Family Initiatives, and Emily Sullivan, Assistant Director of Athlete Leadership and Family Initiatives at Special Olympics Illinois. Together, they explore the exciting updates to Athlete Leadership University (ALU) — a new, structured approach to helping athletes grow as leaders. Topics include: What it means to be an athlete leader today Why the new ALU structure was created How the program supports leadership development at every level The future vision for Athlete Leadership at Special Olympics Illinois The role of athlete voice and feedback in shaping programs Whether you're already involved in Athlete Leadership or just getting started, this episode offers valuable insight into how athletes are leading the inclusion movement — and how you can be part of it.

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Teams podcast, host Ben Wright explores the power of simplicity in driving effective sales strategies and team leadership. Reflecting on a compelling conversation with motivational speaker Lasada Pippen, Ben revisits the impactful notion that “Simplicity sails, complexity fails” — a principle that sets the tone for this thought-provoking discussion. Ben unpacks how embracing simplicity can significantly enhance B2B sales management. He presents a clear and structured framework that includes strategic planning, streamlined sales processes, targeted training, coaching, measurable performance metrics, and consistent team behaviours — all designed to boost sales team performance. Key Takeaways: Embracing simplicity in sales strategies and processes helps avoid overwhelm and enhances overall team productivity. Establish regular, structured training sessions to support consistent upskilling and sustained team engagement. Keep sales metrics straightforward and focused, limiting them to what truly matters for clarity and impact. Favour adaptable frameworks over rigid scripts to allow sales professionals to bring authenticity and a personal touch to their approach. Gain a clear understanding of your team's capabilities and manage workload effectively to prevent burnout and maintain high performance. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 0:58 Lasada Pippen's Quote 3:25 Simplifying Our Professional Lives 3:47 Framework Around Simplicity 4:30 Capacity vs. Capability 7:10 Simplicity and Complexity in Strategy 11:10 Simplicity and Complexity in the Sales Process 15:20 Simplicity and Complexity in Training and Coaching 20:20 Simplicity and Complexity in Metrics 22:30 Simplicity and Complexity in Rituals, Behaviours, and Celebrations 24:20 Recap 24:50 Health and Fitness Tip 27:03 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Teams podcast, Ben Wright dives deep into what really makes a product or service demo land with impact. As the business world keeps shifting, Ben unpacks why nailing your demos isn't just nice to have — it's mission-critical for connecting the dots between what your product can do and what your customers actually need. He walks through six key elements that take a demo from a dull features rundown to a personalised, problem-solving experience that hits home. It's all about telling a compelling story, backing it up with data, and building trust through real, human conversations. Key Takeaways: Focus on the customer's potential benefits from the product, addressing the problems it solves or opportunities it capitalises on. Tailor demonstrations to suit the specific needs and contexts of the customer, enhancing relevance and engagement. Allow the product or service to showcase its capabilities, making it an integral part of the demonstration. Anticipate and address potential objections during the demo to keep the customer focused and engaged. Paint a vivid picture for customers on how their business or life will improve with the product, solidifying their decision-making. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 2:16 Product or Service Demonstration 5:10 Delivering An Effective Demo 7:42 Identifying The Key Problem or Opportunity To Capitalise On 10:02 Personalise The Demonstration 11:20 Let The Product or Service Do The Talking 13:21 Using Numbers To Backup Our Claims 15:52 Working Proactively Through Objections 19:20 Painting Life With Our Products And Service 22:23 Recap 23:35 Health And Fitness Tip 24:50 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

In this powerful episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Rob Snow, comedian, speaker, and creator of The Improvaneers, the world's first all-Down syndrome improv troupe, and with Nick Doyle, Assistant Director/National Sales Executive, from The Improvaneer Method.  Rob and Nick share how a casual conversation turned into a life-changing movement, the impact of the Improvaneer Method, and how improv is helping individuals with developmental disabilities gain confidence, communication skills, and new opportunities. We also get a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming film documenting this powerful journey. Episode 779 ShowNotes & Links Click HERE to purchase tickets to The Improvaneers Midwest Tour Theatre On The Lake August 7th TheImprovaneerMethod.com  Burn The Script DocuSeries Watch the Pre-Show | Exclusive Access Only On SpecialChronicles+ PLUS Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Teams podcast, Ben Wright speaks with Ingrid Maynard, founder of The Sales Doctor, about the evolving world of B2B sales leadership. They explore how customer service has shifted post-COVID and how leaders can adapt to build high-performing, customer-centric teams. Ingrid shares insights on what defines great service today, emphasising curiosity, communication, and strong relationships. The episode also covers hiring the right people and creating a culture that supports growth—offering valuable takeaways for any sales leader. About the Guest: Ingrid Maynard is the founder of The Sales Doctor and host of the Sales Revolution podcast. With more than 25 years of experience, Ingrid is a seasoned expert in transforming business performance through strategic sales improvement. Renowned for her dynamic speaking style and thought leadership, Ingrid has been featured in prominent publications and has worked with some of the most iconic brands across Australia and New Zealand. Her approach centres on cultivating customer-centric, commercially astute cultures that drive lasting results. Ingrid recently released her first book, The Sales Revolution, a reflection of her deep expertise and forward-thinking perspective on modern sales leadership. Key Takeaways: Genuine curiosity, communication, and connection are essential for excellent customer service. The onset of COVID-19 altered service delivery, leading to a mixed impact on customer experience. Effective customer service involves setting, meeting, and exceeding customer expectations. Selecting the right people and nurturing their growth and skills is crucial in building strong sales teams. The transition to virtual meetings has blurred professional standards; maintaining professionalism is vital. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:25 Guest Introduction 3:05 About the Guest 4:37 Customer Service In The Modern World 7:21 Service In The Modern World That Isn't Successful 10:20 Expectations 13:29 Delivery Better Service To Customers 16:10 Growing The Service Development 22:17 Guest Socials 22:55 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

To conclude Disability Pride Month, we're rebroadcasting one of our most powerful conversations. Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with his college friend Maria DiSabato in this encore episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, recorded on location at Roosevelt University in Chicago. Maria shares her lived experience with disability—exploring questions like: • What does disability mean to you? • What do you wish peers, professors, and classmates understood? • Is disability a part of how you describe yourself? • Do you feel there's a stigma, and how can we break it? • And why disability is truly another face of diversity. This thoughtful and empowering dialogue offers fresh insights—and is the perfect conclusion to Disability Pride Month. Episode 778 ShowNotes & Links Listen and Follow at SpecialChronicles.com/Pod

In this episode of the Stronger Sales Teams, Ben Wright engages in an insightful conversation with Glenn Poulos. Together, they examine the rapidly evolving sales landscape, with Glenn highlighting a growing overreliance on technology at the expense of genuine, face-to-face client interactions. He underscores the importance of robust onboarding processes, meaningful metrics, and well-structured compensation plans in driving team performance. Emphasising accountability, Glenn details how consistent check-ins and clear expectations are essential to creating disciplined, results-driven sales teams. About the Guest: Glenn Poulos is a highly experienced entrepreneur and sales executive, boasting more than four decades in the sales arena. He currently serves as President of ProgUSA, a leading distributor in the electrical testing and measurement equipment industry. Throughout his career, Glenn has built and successfully exited businesses valued in the eight figures. He is also the author of Never Sit in the Lobby, a practical guide offering actionable strategies for sales professionals to close more deals and sidestep common missteps. As a respected speaker, podcast host, and LinkedIn Top Voice, Glenn is widely regarded for his forthright and insightful approach to cultivating high-performing sales teams. Key Takeaways: Sales teams must balance virtual selling with face-to-face meetings to understand customer challenges and competitors. Clear onboarding programs and consistent metrics are essential for setting salespeople up for success. Align compensation with company values to motivate the right behaviours and drive business goals. Implement clear expectations, public goals, and disciplined check-ins to maintain accountability within the team. Simplify offerings, clear out non-real deals, and double prospecting efforts to ensure growth and hit targets. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 0:58 Guest Introduction 2:41 About Glenn Poulos 6:59 The Most Common Mistakes Sales People Make 11:15 How High Performing Sales Teams Are Built 17:14 Building Accountability In The Sales Process 21:55 Supercharging Growth Of The Business 25:40 Guest Socials 26:22 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

 In this special audio documentary episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, Host Daniel Smrokowski takes you behind the scenes of the 2025 Special Olympics Illinois State Summer Games in Normal, IL! From the powerful Tribute to Champions Reception, to the walk with his SEASPAR team, inspiring Opening Ceremony speeches, and his personal reflections after an intense Bocce competition—this episode brings you along for the full journey. Daniel placed 4th in an incredibly close match that went into overtime—coming down to just 1/8 of an inch! Hear the sounds, the emotions, and the inspiration of the Summer Games through Daniel's firsthand storytelling and audio coverage. What You'll Hear: 1:30 - Opening Segment 3:25 - Audio from the Tribute to Champions Reception 12:00 - Walking to meet Daniel's team at the dorms 23:25 - Meet SEASPAR's new Special Olympics Athletic Director Jared 28:00 - Team SEASPAR Walks into Opening Ceremony Highlights from the Opening Ceremony speeches: 35:00 - Illinois State Representatives 40:00 - Athlete Leader Board Member Colleen Costello 45:00 - SO Illinois Board Chair 50:00 - SO USA Athlete Mallory Malvin 54:00 - SO Illinois CEO 1:00:00 - Athlete Oath 1:01:20 - Law Enforcement Torch Run 1:07:00 - Intro to Drone Show 1:09:00 - Reflections on representing SEASPAR in Bocce 1:15:00 -

In this powerful episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt5, we sit down with Jessica Rojas from ComEd to explore how the Powering Lives Community Center and other ComEd education programs are lighting the way for students, families, and future energy professionals. From interactive K-12 field trips to immersive college experiences and STEM scholarships, ComEd is building a brighter, more inclusive energy future. Jessica shares stories, insights, and opportunities that empower lives and communities across the region. Powering Lives Community Center - click to Schedule your FREE Field trip today!  

Ben Wright and guests discuss doctors' strikes, the economy and political wit.

Ben Wright presents political debate from Shrewsbury Abbey

In this episode of Stronger Sales Teams, Ben Wright welcomes special guest Lasada Pippen, blending the precision of engineering with the art of motivational speaking. Lasada shares his compelling journey from a background in computer engineering to inspiring audiences across the United States, underscoring the vital importance of purpose, resilience, and impactful communication in sales leadership. Together, they unpack the essence of purpose-driven leadership and its critical role in cultivating resilient sales teams ready to thrive in today's complex global landscape. About the Guest: Lasada Pippen is a highly regarded motivational speaker and leadership coach, celebrated for his dynamic and impactful approach to professional development. With a background in computer engineering and over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Lasada made a transformative shift to focus on inspiring and equipping others through speaking and coaching. He is widely recognised for his signature keynote series, The Climb, and for his unique ability to engage and resonate with diverse audiences. A bilingual STEM professional and university graduate, Lasada specialises in guiding leaders towards purpose-driven leadership, helping individuals and teams tap into resilience, clarity, and direction on their professional journey. Key Takeaways: Purpose-driven leadership involves leading from a place of understanding one's unique gifts and applying purpose and strategy in their role. Building resilience in teams begins with establishing a framework for clear, concise, compelling, and confident communication (C4). Bringing team members together across new and diverse connections can foster collaboration and innovation through team-building activities. For effective sales growth, the principle of “Simplicity Sells, Complexity Fails” should be emphasised to streamline processes and enhance product appeal. Leveraging individual strengths and applying a GPS (Gifts, Purpose, Strategy) approach can lead to heightened productivity and job satisfaction. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:03 Guest Introduction 2:48 The Lasada Pippen Journey 5:43 Purpose Driven Leadership 7:20 Resilience 8:58 From Liking to Loving Your Role 12:29 Building Resilience Into The Team 15:00 Team Building Activities 19:46 Where To Start To Drive Revenue Growth 23:36 Recap 24:43 Guest Socials 25:00 Update on the Road To Cairns 26:16 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

In this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Matthew Brough, an Athlete Leader from Special Olympics Great Britain, based in York, England. Matthew's journey began on the tennis court and led him all the way to the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, where he proudly won gold and bronze medals. Since then, he's completed his Athlete Leadership training, become an advocate in his local community, and shared his story through public speaking and media appearances. Now working at The Grand Hotel in York and serving as a Level One tennis coach, Matthew continues to inspire others by breaking barriers and promoting inclusion wherever he goes.

In this episode of Stronger Sales Teams, Ben Wright sits down with renowned negotiation consultant and author Saad A. Saad to explore the complexities of B2B sales negotiation. Together, they unpack how sharpening negotiation skills can empower sales teams to consistently secure high-impact outcomes. Saad underscores the importance of thorough preparation and cautions against the tendency to be overly accommodating at the negotiation table. He stresses that effective negotiation starts from day one of the sales process and challenges sales professionals to align their efforts with their boldest commercial goals. The discussion delves into critical themes, including the subtle balance between striving for win-win outcomes and maximising results. Key Takeaways: Thorough preparation is vital for achieving the best outcomes in negotiations. Understand your optimal goals, support them with compelling evidence, and be ready to communicate these effectively. Shift the focus from merely reaching win-win deals to achieving the most optimal outcomes while maintaining healthy negotiation dynamics. Utilize AI in the preparation stage to enhance thought patterns and extend perspective, but rely on human skills for the actual negotiation process. Embrace a certain level of friction in negotiations as a healthy sign, ensuring your conviction and value are clearly communicated. Reduce tension through empathy, active listening, and ensuring all parties feel heard to facilitate effective communication and negotiation resolutions. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:11 Guest Introduction 2:49 Saad's World of Negotiation 4:56 Negotiation 6:45 Win Versus Best Outcome 8:17 Negotiation Strategy For Best Outcomes 10:35 Framework To Negotiation 11:32 Roll of AI in Negotiation 14:43 Managing Through Heated Situations 16:53 Dealing Better With The Friction 18:07 Preparing To Deal With Friction 19:32 Introducing Tension 22:23 Guest Socials 23:27 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast's EnergyForce Series S8:Pt4: Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Kelvin Limbrick from ComEd to talk about the innovative and eco-friendly goat grazing program that's helping manage vegetation under power lines in northern Illinois. With nearly three dozen goats on the job this summer, ComEd is leading the way in sustainability by using goats to clear brush and keep the power grid resilient in challenging terrains. Kelvin shares the story behind this unique initiative, explaining how goats are the perfect solution for rocky, steep areas where traditional methods would be difficult or unsafe. We dive into sharing the Goats story with the public — adding some fun and lighthearted moments to the program's impact. From the environmental benefits to community engagement and the goats' "office" quirks, you'll hear how these hardworking goats are not just a solution for vegetation management, but also a symbol of ComEd's commitment to innovation and sustainability. Join us for this fun and informative episode about one of the most unconventional and effective approaches to powering the grid! Key Topics Covered: The role of goats in keeping the power grid reliable and reducing outages Behind-the-scenes of sharing the goat story with the public The benefits of using goats in difficult-to-reach areas How ComEd's sustainable practices are shaping the future of energy management Don't miss this fun conversation about the G.O.A.T. of vegetation management — literally! Episode 774 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast774