Podcasts about CRM

Fear is part of the game, but it does not get to decide your future.In this episode, Todd Toback shares five real fears he faced on his path from sending handwritten letters and using fax machines to building a multi-million-dollar wholesaling business. He talks about feeling unprepared, leaving a six-figure job, spending real money on marketing, hiring a team, and stepping into completely new asset classes. Each fear became a turning point that pushed him toward greater growth.If fear has been holding you back, this episode is your reminder that confidence comes after you take action, not before it.---------Show notes:(0:50) Beginning of today's episode(1:09) Todd sets up the 5 fears he had to overcome in real estate(1:42) Fear #1: Not having the right tools (handwritten letters, no CRM, no systems)(3:52) Taking imperfect action and closing his first deal without contracts or funding lined up(4:25) How one phone call led to a $40,000 payday(5:09) Fear #2: Quitting a high-paying job and stepping into the unknown(6:23) How surviving a market crash made Todd a stronger investor(7:33) Fear #3: Spending real money on marketing(8:32) Turning $7,500 in mailers into a $38,000 deal(9:55) Fear #4: Hiring people and building a team(11:20) Why not hiring is actually more dangerous than competition(12:34) Fear #5: Investing in new asset classes outside of single-family homes(13:50) Defining “no-brainer” deals to reduce risk and fear(15:07) Dan Sullivan's 4 Cs: Commitment, Courage, Competence, Confidence(18:01) Why confidence only comes after you jump----------Resources:Dan Sullivan – The 4 Cs FrameworkBook referenced: Multiple Streams of Income by Robert AllenTo speak with Brent or one of our other expert coaches call (281) 835-4201 or schedule your free discovery call here to learn about our mentorship programs and become part of the TribeGo to Wholesalingincgroup.com to become part of one of the fastest growing Facebook communities in the Wholesaling space. Get all of your burning Wholesaling questions answered, gain access to JV partnerships, and connect with other "success minded" Rhinos in the community.It's 100% free to join. The opportunities in this community are endless, what are you waiting for?

Show highlights include:-Why client experience and technology will be the primary differentiators for advisors in 2026.-What a true CRM “health check” looks like and why clean data is the foundation of everything.-How workflow automation and AI note-takers are reducing friction and reclaiming advisor time.-The tradeoffs between all-in-one platforms and best-of-breed technology stacks.-Why personalization at scale is becoming essential for modern advisory firms.-How firms should think about cybersecurity, compliance, and regulatory readiness.-The metrics and insights advisors should be tracking to better understand growth, profitability, and client value.Brian and Sue make one thing clear: firms that treat technology as a strategic asset - not just a collection of tools - will be best positioned to grow, compete, and serve clients more effectively in 2026 and beyond.Download our whitepaper here:https://jedidatabasesolutions.com/resources/Articles discussed today include:https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/financial-services/financial-services-industry-outlooks/investment-management-industry-outlook.htmlhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/customer-satisfaction-individual-annuities-strained-120000029.htmlhttps://www.investmentnews.com/fintech/summit-financial-massmutual-boost-advisor-appeal-with-growth-focused-tech/261873Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors:https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions:https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors:https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

What you'll learn on this episode:The three reasons most agents fail: not saying it enough, not saying the right thing, or not saying it to the right peopleWhy momentum comes from consistent daily action—not random one-time effortsHow direct mail and face-to-face expired listing campaigns still work strategicallyWhy online webinars can generate big business with the right structure and follow-upHow ads must be paired with a powerful CRM and follow-up system to convert To find out more about Dan Rochon and the CPI Community, you can check these links:Website: No Broke MonthsPodcast: No Broke Months for Salespeople PodcastInstagram: @donrochonxFacebook: Dan RochonLinkedIn: Dan RochonTeach to Sell Preorder: Teach to Sell: Why Top Performers Never Sell – And What They Do Instead

How AI and Digital Transformation Are Reshaping Heavy Equipment Dealerships with Vikram SavkarIn this episode, host Josh Elledge speaks with Vikram Savkar, CEO of VitalEdge Technologies, about how AI, ERP systems, and digital transformation are redefining heavy equipment dealerships across agriculture, construction, forestry, mining, and material handling. Vikram shares how industry-specific ERP platforms create operational leverage in a margin-sensitive environment and explains why incremental efficiency gains often produce the greatest competitive advantage. This blog captures the most important insights from their conversation, offering a clear roadmap for dealership leaders navigating modernization and AI adoption.Why Industry-Specific ERP and AI Matter in Heavy Equipment DealershipsVikram explains that heavy equipment dealerships operate in a uniquely complex environment, where individual assets can cost hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars and where service, inventory, finance, and field operations must function in perfect coordination. Generic ERP platforms often fall short because they are not built to handle equipment lifecycles, parts logistics, mobile technicians, or industry-specific workflows. Purpose-built ERP systems allow dealerships to gain visibility across operations, reduce inefficiencies, and make better decisions faster.Digital transformation, Vikram notes, is not about sweeping disruption but about stacking small operational improvements that compound over time. Faster service response, tighter inventory management, and improved procurement workflows can significantly impact cash flow and customer satisfaction. In industries where margins are tight, these “game-of-inches” improvements often determine long-term success.AI further accelerates this transformation by enabling predictive maintenance, smarter inventory forecasting, and deeper customer insights. Through VitalEdge AI Labs, Vikram and his team collaborate directly with dealers to prototype AI solutions that integrate seamlessly into real-world workflows. Rather than deploying AI for novelty, the focus remains on measurable outcomes—reduced downtime, improved uptime, and data-driven decision-making that scales with the business.About Vikram SavkarVikram Savkar is the CEO of VitalEdge Technologies, where he leads innovation in ERP and AI solutions purpose-built for heavy equipment dealerships. With deep expertise in enterprise software and industry-specific transformation, Vikram focuses on helping dealers improve operational efficiency, embrace digital modernization, and gain sustainable competitive advantage. Connect with Vikram on LinkedIn.About VitalEdge TechnologiesVitalEdge Technologies provides industry-specific ERP solutions designed exclusively for heavy equipment dealerships across agriculture, construction, forestry, mining, and material handling. The platform integrates finance, inventory, service, CRM, mobile field operations, business intelligence, and AI-driven insights into a unified system. Learn more at vitaledge.com.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeVitalEdge Technologies WebsiteVikram Savkar on LinkedInKey Episode HighlightsWhy heavy equipment dealerships require industry-specific ERP systemsHow...

Sarah Rahall-Lunsford, the visionary behind Centered Strategies Consulting, joins us to share her unexpected leap from marketing to sales and business development. Her journey began with a simple piece of advice that transformed her approach, leading her to success in helping companies translate their expertise into effective sales strategies, particularly in professional services. Sarah's insights into understanding client needs and matching them with the right solutions frame sales as a service, emphasizing continuous improvement and the power of clear communication to truly stand out.  Our conversation with Sarah explores the fundamentals of effective marketing strategies that enable businesses to differentiate themselves in a saturated market. By honing in on what clients truly want and employing storytelling to highlight the unique benefits of their offerings, businesses can create a memorable impression. We focus on the vital role of data analysis for businesses navigating growth, as understanding trends and improving hit rates can significantly enhance competitiveness and better manage constraints.  Lastly, we dive into optimizing CRM systems and the transformative role of AI. Sarah articulates the challenges businesses face with data management and CRM implementation, advocating for streamlined processes that make data actionable. We discuss the integration of AI tools like Google Gemini and Copilot for Sales, which act as virtual assistants to improve productivity and engagement. Sarah shares her experiences using AI for efficient note-taking and data analysis, offering valuable insights for those looking to leverage AI in their business strategies.  Sarah Rahall-Lunsford brings over 20 years of experience driving business growth through pragmatic, consensus-driven strategies in business development and marketing. She has held senior leadership roles, including Director of Sales and Marketing for an international home furnishings brand and SVP of Business Development for a $450M ENR Top 15 transportation firm.  Sarah has led successful capture planning programs with win rates over 50%, generating $1.5B in contracts over the past decade. She managed a 20-person BD coordinator team, developed training programs, and helped build a national M&A strategy—from research and reporting to strategic intent presentations.  She holds a master's degree in organizational communication from Pepperdine University, where she led the Speech Laboratory, and a bachelor's in communication with a journalism minor from Butler University, where she also directed the Speaker's Lab.    Quotes:  On the Role of Marketing: "In a saturated market, standing out means truly connecting with decision-makers and focusing on what clients want to buy, not just what we want to sell."  On Data Management: "Companies often get trapped in a cycle of maintaining the status quo with CRM systems. It's essential to streamline processes and focus on making data actionable."  Integrating AI Tools: "AI tools like Google Gemini and Copilot for Sales are transforming CRM by acting as virtual assistants, improving productivity and engagement."  Navigating Growth Constraints: "Understanding trends and improving hit rates can significantly enhance competitiveness, helping businesses manage growth constraints more effectively."  On CRM Systems: "A CRM should work for the user, not against them. It's about stripping systems down to essential functions to avoid overwhelming users."    Links:   Sarah's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rahall-lunsford-25883216/ Centered Strategies Consulting - https://www.centeredstrategiesconsulting.com Find this episode and all other Sales Lead Dog episodes at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog/ Get your free copy of CRM Shouldn't Suck at https://crmshouldntsuck.com 

Send us a textYour next contract is already researching vendors on LinkedIn, and today we show you how to be the profile they trust. We sit down with author and strategist Al Kushner to break down a practical, repeatable playbook tailored for builders, steel dealers, and manufacturers who want qualified leads without living on the phone. The shift is simple but powerful: speak to outcomes, not offerings; educate instead of pitch; and make your profile the clearest answer to a buyer's biggest questions.We dig into what actually moves the needle: outcome-based headlines and summaries that signal expertise, content pillars that balance education, project results, team credibility, and light promotions, plus the underrated force multiplier of LinkedIn newsletters that land in inboxes and bypass spam filters. You'll hear concrete examples—how to frame a 60x100 build as a schedule win, why decision makers respond to “how we saved three weeks” more than “look at our building,” and how one video can spawn ten posts when you slice by challenge, result, and process.Then we get operational. Al maps a lean weekly cadence any small team can sustain: 20 minutes a day for engagement, one to two hours a week to batch content, and simple analytics that prove ROI. We cover targeting by role, industry, and geography; using lead gen forms for higher conversion; and tagging sources in your CRM to see shorter sales cycles from pre-educated buyers. Along the way, AI shows up as a draft partner—not a replacement—to help you articulate value faster and keep your voice clear.If you've wondered whether LinkedIn is worth the effort, this conversation gives you the numbers, language, and steps to make it your always-on sales engine. Subscribe, share this episode with a teammate who needs the nudge, and leave a review with one LinkedIn question you want us to tackle next.Find his book at: The A.I. Linked AdvantageFor more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.Would you like to receive our weekly newsletter?  Sign up here.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at info@shedgeek.com.This episodes Sponsors:Studio Sponsor: J Money LLC

Episode Title: Quiet Thunderstorm Ambience for Mind RestDescription:In this episode, immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of a quiet thunderstorm designed to help your mind unwind and find peace. We'll guide you through how soft thunder and rain can create a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation, meditation, or drifting off to sleep. Take a few moments to let go of stress and recharge your mental energy with this calming natural soundtrack.Make time daily for these peaceful pauses—they're small but powerful steps toward a calmer, more balanced life.Stay tuned for our next episode as we continue to explore soothing sounds and techniques for relaxation.DISCLAIMER

What happens to wholesale distribution when tariffs rise, interest rates stay high, and customers expect more with less friction? In this episode of Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution from LeadSmart Channel Cloud, Kevin Brown and Tom Burton sit down with Modern Distribution Management editor and market analyst Mike Hockett to unpack the data behind the headlines and what it means for revenue leaders in distribution. You will hear a practical, numbers-driven outlook for 2025 that connects GDP forecasts, Fed policy, and tariff risk with real impacts on margins, inventory, and channel relationships. The conversation stays grounded in what wholesalers, manufacturers, and reps can control, and how to use planning, consultative commerce, and better pipeline visibility to future-proof distribution businesses through uncertainty.  What You Will Learn: Why November's softer numbers do not necessarily signal a collapse, and how MDM thinks about “soft landing” versus “stall.”How tariffs, elections, and Fed policy are likely to affect pricing power, imports, and inventory strategy for wholesale distribution teams.Where distributors are still leaving money on the table because of weak forecasting, poor CRM adoption, and limited collaboration with suppliers and reps.How to connect market forecasts to practical decisions about hiring, territory coverage, and hybrid selling models.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Why this conversation matters now08:15 – Inside MDM's latest distribution data18:40 – Are we heading toward a soft landing or a stall?30:10 – Tariffs, trade policy, and pricing pressure42:35 – Forecasting failures inside distribution organizations55:20 – Hybrid selling and channel conflict1:07:45 – Technology, CRM adoption, and operational readiness1:21:30 – M&A, succession planning, and consolidation signals1:33:10 – Practical priorities for the next 12 months Meet the Guest: Mike Hockett is an editor and market analyst with Modern Distribution Management (MDM) and the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors. He spends his time inside the data and conversations that shape the future of wholesale distribution, from sector forecasts and benchmarking to technology, talent, and channel strategy. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned:MDM's annual distribution forecast and benchmark reporting.Practical approaches to collaborative planning and forecasting between manufacturers, reps, and distributors.CRM and pipeline practices that give revenue leaders in distribution a clearer “ground truth” for planning.Leave a Review: Help us grow by sharing your thoughts on the show.Learn more about the LeadSmart AI B2B Sales Platform: https://www.leadsmarttech.com/ Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.

Episode 165: Markus Erlandsson and Malin Martnes chatted with Nathan Sweeney from KPMG, about vibe coding. Nathan starts by describing what vibe coding is and some of the tools you can use to generate code. He then explains the vibe coding framework and how important that can be to help you be a better vibe … Continue reading Vibe Coding with Nathan Sweeney The post Vibe Coding with Nathan Sweeney first appeared on CRM Rocks.

Episode Title: Calm Evening Thunderstorm for Stress ReliefDescription:In this episode of "Thunderstorm: Sleep and Relax in the Rain," immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of a calm evening thunderstorm. Let the soothing rumble of distant thunder and the steady patter of rain wash away your stress and tension. Picture yourself in a cozy space, safe and warm, as the storm unfolds outside, creating a peaceful backdrop for relaxation and restful sleep.As the rain falls softly, your mind begins to unwind, releasing the worries of the day. The natural rhythm of the thunderstorm helps ease anxiety and promotes deep calm. Whether you're seeking relief from stress or simply want a tranquil soundtrack to help you drift off, this episode invites you to embrace serenity in the embrace of nature's gentle storm.Tune in, close your eyes, and let the calming sounds of the evening thunderstorm guide you to a place of quiet and comfort.DISCLAIMER

Episode Title: Enhance Focus with Peaceful Rain and Thunder BackgroundsDescription:In this episode of Thunderstorm: Sleep and Relax in the Rain, immerse yourself in calming rain and gentle thunder sounds designed to help you improve focus and concentration. Whether you're working, studying, or simply need a peaceful background to clear your mind, the soothing rainstorm will create the perfect atmosphere to boost your productivity.Picture yourself in a quiet forest as a steady rain falls on leaves and distant thunder rolls softly in the background. The natural rhythm helps block distractions and centers your thoughts, allowing you to dive deep into your tasks or find mental clarity.Let the relaxing sounds of rain and thunder guide you into a state of calm alertness, making it easier to stay on track and feel refreshed throughout your day.DISCLAIMER

Episode Title: Sleep Aid With Soothing Raindrops and Far-Off Thunder RollsDescription:Welcome to this calming episode of "Thunderstorm: Sleep and Relax in the Rain." Let the gentle patter of raindrops combined with distant, rolling thunder guide you into a deep state of relaxation and restful sleep. Imagine yourself nestled in a cozy spot, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature's nighttime rainstorm. The rhythmic drops create a comforting backdrop, while the soft rumbles of thunder add a soothing depth that eases your mind and body.This episode is designed to help you unwind from the day's stresses, slow your breathing, and gently drift off to sleep. Whether you're struggling with insomnia, stress, or just need a peaceful moment to recharge, these natural sounds will provide the perfect atmosphere for rest and relaxation.Let go of your worries and allow the rain and thunder to carry you into a night of calm and rejuvenation.DISCLAIMER

Episode Title: Calm Rain Sounds for Anxiety and Insomnia ReliefDescription:In this episode, we dive into the soothing world of rain sounds and their powerful effects on easing anxiety and improving sleep quality. Learn how the gentle patter of rain can create a peaceful environment, helping you unwind and find restful sleep. We also share tips on how to use rain sounds effectively in your daily relaxation or bedtime routine to calm your mind and body.Take a moment to pause and let the calming rhythm of rain wash away stress and tension — a simple yet effective way to nurture your mental well-being.Join us next time as we continue exploring simple tools to bring calm and relaxation into your life.DISCLAIMER

Episode Title: Meditation Relaxed by Gentle Rain on RoofDescription:In this episode of "Thunderstorm: Sleep and Relax in the Rain," immerse yourself in the calming sound of gentle rain tapping softly on a rooftop. Let the rhythmic droplets guide you into a state of deep relaxation and meditation. Imagine sitting quietly indoors, feeling safe and cozy as the rain creates a peaceful soundtrack that eases your mind and body.As you breathe deeply, the gentle rain washes away stress and tension, inviting a sense of calm and clarity. This soothing ambiance serves as the perfect backdrop for mindfulness, reflection, or simply drifting into restful sleep. Whether you need a moment of tranquility during a busy day or a calm atmosphere before bedtime, this episode will help you find your inner peace.Tune in, close your eyes, and let the gentle rain on the roof carry you to a place of serenity and renewal.DISCLAIMER

Today, host Dave Sullivan dives into the marketing challenges that roofing contractors deal with every day. He really stresses the importance of transparency and actually understanding where your marketing dollars are going. Dave shares some real-life lessons from his coaching clients, pointing out why it's crucial to track key metrics, pre-qualify your leads, and make sure your sales and marketing teams are working together. He also gives some super practical tips on how to audit your marketing agency, set the right KPIs, and use tools like Proline CRM to see what's actually working. Dave encourages contractors to focus on booking appointments, building a strong sales team, and joining mastermind groups for extra support. It's all about helping you grow a profitable roofing business, without all the stress!What you'll hear in this episode:Importance of marketing for roofing contractors and common challenges facedInsights into a client's struggles with marketing despite high spendingThe three critical components of a roofing business: selling work, doing work, and keeping scoreNecessity of understanding financial metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs)Issues with transparency and clarity in marketing expenditures and resultsThe significance of pre-qualifying leads and tracking conversion ratesRecommendations for effective marketing strategies and budget allocationRole of independent audits to assess marketing effectiveness and agency performanceThe need for a solid sales process to convert leads into customersEmphasis on continuous improvement, tracking, and accountability in marketing and sales effortsResources:Connect with Dave!Text Dave: (510) 612-1450Free Strategy CallWant to grow a more profitable roofing business? Book a free strategy call with Dave here → davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-callFree ResourceDownload your FREE 1-Page Business Plan for Roofing Contractors → theroofershow.com/planWatch on YouTubeSubscribe for weekly tips and full episodes → @DaveSullivanRooferShowTrusted & Vetted SponsorsRuby Receptionists – US-based professionals who answer your phones live, leave a great first impression, and tee up the sale. Get $150 off your first month → theroofercoach.com/ruby.ProLine – Automate your follow-up and close more jobs with text, email, and CRM integration. Try it FREE + save 50% off your first month with code DAVE50 → useproline.com.SMA Support – Roofing-specific virtual assistants who know the business. Free up your time by outsourcing admin, marketing, and customer service tasks → smasupport.us.

Today's question is one that hits Tique's inbox at least once a day: Should I change my CRM? Jennifer, Robin, and Ashlyn (Tique's workflow guru and product manager) break down why the answer is usually not so fast. Before you chase the next shiny tech solution, hear why you should first fully use the features you already have, and how skipping that step can lead to unnecessary costs, messy migrations, and full-blown workflow chaos. Ashlyn walks through what a CRM should be doing for your business, how to evaluate whether it's actually falling short, and why tightening your processes often solves the problem long before a system switch ever will. You'll also get a rundown of the five travel-industry CRMs they recommend and how to assess which tool aligns with your business. If the lure of a new platform has been calling your name, this episode is your sign to pause, evaluate, and make moves with intention instead of impulse!  Workflow Implementation → tiquehq.com/workflow-implementation Connect with Ashlyn → hello@tiquehq.com JOIN THE NICHE COMMUNITY VISIT THE TEMPLATE SHOP EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

My guest this week is Matt Sutton, SVP and head of marketing at Columbia Sportswear, a leader who thrives on tough challenges and new terrain. With 15 years across agency, brand and platform side marketing, Matt's led global teams, own P &Ls north of 700 million and driven growth across apparel, jewelry and home goods. His superpower? Solving brand problems end-to-end, rethinking everything from CRM and brand identity to channel mix and digital transformation. His work has been featured in Adweek, CNBC, TechCrunch, and the New York Times. And he's advised leaders at American Express, Geico, P&G, Expedia, and Nissan on how to turn marketing into momentum.

Episode Title: Rain Sounds to Help You Focus and StudyDescription:In this episode, we explore how the soothing sounds of rain can boost your concentration and improve your study sessions. Discover why rain sounds create the perfect background noise to drown out distractions, enhance focus, and calm your mind. We also share tips on how to incorporate rain soundscapes into your daily routine to make studying or working more productive and relaxing.Take a moment to immerse yourself in the gentle rhythm of rain and notice how it helps you stay grounded and attentive during your tasks. Remember, even a few minutes of calm can transform your day.Stay with us as we continue to share ways to bring peace and relaxation into your busy life.DISCLAIMER

In this episode of Wharton Tech Toks, Kirk Hachigian (Wharton MBA '27) sits down with Justin Hannah, Senior Director of Marketing Technology and Automation at FanDuel Sports Network. Justin shares his career journey from a 40-person ad tech startup to leading MarTech at Hulu and FanDuel, breaking down the complex world of marketing technology.The conversation explores how customer data platforms and CRM systems power modern marketing, the challenges of multi-touch attribution in a privacy-first world, and FanDuel's innovative approaches to measuring campaign ROI. Justin discusses transitioning from streaming entertainment to real-time sports, balancing aggressive personalization with responsible gaming, and where AI is actually delivering value versus hype in MarTech today.

Im Payment & Banking Fintech Podcast spricht Dr. Themo Voswinckel, Mitgründer von Maesn, darüber, warum moderne Software-Integration zum entscheidenden Erfolgsfaktor geworden ist und wie eine Unified API Datensilos auflöst.

Bonjour et bienvenue dans la revue de presse hebdo et audio du secteur retail / e-commerce en France proposée par Les Digital Doers en partenariat avec le One to One Retail Ecommerce de Monaco.

In this highly practical episode of the SpeakersU Podcast, James Taylor and Maria Franzoni share the essential tools they use every day to run successful, scalable speaking businesses. From payments and scheduling to CRM systems, international banking, SEO, video production, writing, and travel management, this episode delivers a full behind-the-scenes tour of a modern professional speaker's tech stack. Maria reveals how she automates coaching bookings end-to-end using Stripe, Calendly, Zapier, Xero, and Zoom, plus the browser tools she relies on for productivity, documentation, and client management. James shares the marketing, SEO, video, writing, and travel tools that power his global keynote career including Kajabi, SEMrush, Ecamm Live, Scrivener, eSpeakers, and TripIt Pro. If you want to save time, increase your efficiency, improve your marketing, streamline your finances, and stay sane on the road, this episode is a must-listen.     Key Takeaways Automate your bookings and payments to remove admin friction using Stripe, Calendly, Zapier, Xero, and Zoom. Choose your ecosystem wisely with an all-in-one platform like Google Workspace or a diversified stack for redundancy. Kajabi is a powerhouse for speakers running courses, memberships, websites, and email marketing in one place. Scribe creates instant SOPs by recording your screen and auto-generating training documentation. Wise saves thousands in international banking fees for globally travelling speakers. eSpeakers simplifies lead tracking, contracts, and inquiry management for professional speakers. TextExpander massively boosts productivity with smart text shortcuts across all devices. Scrivener is ideal for long-form writing including books and keynote research. Pipedrive offers a clean, mobile-friendly CRM with real-time proposal tracking. TripIt Pro is a game-changer for global travel management with live itinerary updates and travel analytics. SEMrush reveals keyword gaps and competitive SEO strategy for authority positioning. Ecamm Live enables professional virtual keynotes and multi-camera live broadcasting.     Memorable Quotes "Stripe, Calendly, Zapier, Xero, and Zoom all talking to each other changed my life." – Maria Franzoni "Why are we paying five different companies when one system can do most of it?" – James Taylor "Scribe builds your SOPs while you work. It's magic." – Maria Franzoni "Wise saved me an absolute fortune in international bank charges." – Maria Franzoni "If you want to rank number one in your topic, you have to invest in SEO tools." – James Taylor "TextExpander gives you your time back in the smallest, smartest way." – Maria Franzoni "TripIt Pro is my mission control for global travel." – James Taylor     Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome and why tools equal ROI 01:27 – Maria's automated booking stack: Stripe, Calendly, Zapier, Xero, Zoom 03:05 – Dropbox vs Google Workspace debate 06:25 – Fathom AI meeting notes and cloud backups 08:44 – Kajabi for courses, memberships, websites, and email 11:35 – Scribe for instant SOP creation 13:12 – Tea etiquette and British cultural detour 14:23 – eSpeakers for speaker CRM, contracts, and inquiries 16:08 – Wise for international payments and currency accounts 18:41 – Ecamm Live for virtual keynotes and livestreaming 20:27 – GoFullPage for capturing entire web pages 21:31 – SEMrush for competitive SEO tracking 23:57 – TextExpander for instant productivity gains 26:31 – Scrivener for book writing and keynote creation 28:40 – Pipedrive CRM with email, LinkedIn, and pipeline tracking 31:18 – TripIt Pro for global travel stats and itineraries 34:00 – Wrap-up and future episode on physical gear    

Today I'm joined by Marcello Sciarrino, Co-Owner Island Auto Group. We unpack how family-owned dealerships can stand out against national groups, why transparency matters now more than ever, and the biggest fixed ops opportunities in today's market. We also get into service retention, culture, and why Toyota's hybrid strategy is paying off while others chase EVs. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Overfuel - Overfuel is the new technical standard in automotive websites, proven to grow sales by 30%+. Whether you need more revenue or better support, they've got you covered. Visit @ http://overfuel.com and enter code CDG500 to get $500 OFF a new website. 2. CDK Global - Dealers—big news. CDK just leveled up their CRM in a massive way. We're talking next-gen AI baked right into your daily workflow: Automatically following up with internet leads, surfacing buyer insights, and giving you instant AI-generated summaries of every customer interaction—no more digging through notes. And CRM Video is here. Record, send, and track personalized videos to customers—all inside the CRM. Check out the AI enhanced CDK CRM @ https://carguymedia.com/4px5cLv 3. Nomad Content Studio - Most dealers still fumble social—posting dry inventory pics or handing it off without a plan. Meanwhile, the store down the street is racking up millions of views and selling / buying cars using video. That's where Nomad Content Studio comes in. We train your own videographer, direct what to shoot, and handle strategy, to posting, to feedback. Want in with the team behind George Saliba, EV Auto, and top auto groups? Book a call at http://www.trynomad.co⁠ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ ⁠https://cdgcircles.com/⁠ Industry job board ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jobs.dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dealership recruiting ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgrecruiting.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Fix your dealership's social media ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.trynomad.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Request to be a podcast guest ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgguest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgpartner.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Industry job board ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jobs.dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Request to be a podcast guest ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgguest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Topics: 00:31 What is the community connection? 02:30 How did Marcello enter auto industry? 03:41 Building a successful auto career how? 06:22 Biggest industry challenge and change? 12:17 Modern work-life balance expectations? 20:40 Key insight on OEM relationships? 26:03 How do brokers impact business? 29:50 Most innovative service department change? 35:38 How to create sales transparency? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠x.com/GuyDealership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/cardealershipguy/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@guydealership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Threads ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠threads.net/@cardealershipguy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Everything else ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

How do you make sense of an industry that is changing at a pace few predicted, especially with SIGNAL London still fresh in our minds and Twilio unveiling the next stage of its vision for customer engagement? That question sits at the heart of today's conversation with Peter Bell, VP of Marketing for EMEA at Twilio, who joined me to unpack what the past year has taught both companies and consumers about AI's role in shaping modern experiences. Peter begins by grounding everything in a single, striking shift. Only a year ago, AI-powered search barely registered in global traffic. Today it accounts for around a fifth of all searches. That leap signals a broader behavioral shift as consumers move instinctively toward conversational interfaces, which, in turn, leaves brands with a clear message. The clock has moved on. AI is no longer a nice-to-have. It is a direct response to how people now choose to discover, question, and buy. Our conversation turns to the gap between customer expectations and the experiences they receive. Peter discusses why brands often struggle to integrate channels, data, and AI coherently. He explains how first party data has become the anchor for any serious AI strategy, why generic public models cannot solve brand-specific tasks, and why the most successful teams start with simple, tightly scoped problems. A password reset may not sound glamorous, yet it is the kind of focused use case that teaches teams how to govern data, automate safely, and build confidence in the process. We also spend time on branded calling, RCS, and the evolution of voice. Peter breaks down what modern messaging now looks like and why trust sits at the center of every interaction. His explanation of Conversational Relay shows why natural voice exchanges finally feel within reach after years of frustration with rigid IVR systems. The thread running through all of this is clear. Consumers want speed and clarity, but they want reassurance too, and brands need to honor both sides of that equation. Later in the conversation, Peter makes one of the episode's most compelling points. Brand visibility has become harder, not easier, because much of the early research now occurs within AI tools. Buyers form opinions long before they speak with a sales rep. That shift explains why so many B2B companies are returning to high-impact brand channels, whether that is F1 sponsorships or other standout moments that keep them in the initial consideration set. We close with the topic that Peter believes will define the next stage of enterprise AI. Model Context Protocol. MCP has emerged as a quiet breakthrough, enabling LLMs to access data across CRM systems, files, and other software through a standard protocol. This removes one of the biggest blockers in AI projects: the practical challenge of connecting disparate data to a model built for a specific purpose. As Peter puts it, MCP gives companies a realistic way to make the special-purpose models that deliver reliable ROI. It is a wide-ranging conversation shaped by SIGNAL London's announcements, the evolving customer journey, and a year in which AI moved from curiosity to expectation. I would love to know what part stood out most to you. Are you seeing the same shifts Peter describes in your own business, and how are you preparing for the year ahead? Useful Links Interact with the Inside the Conversational AI Revolution report. Learn more about the Signal event Connect with Peter Bell, VP of Marketing for EMEA at Twilio. Tech Talks Daily is sponsored by Denodo

Be the first to know when I launch my Mastermind Group: https://johnbunn.myflodesk.com/mentorship  Are you feeling stuck in the middle market? I am working on an exclusive 12 week Mastermind Group that launches in January. We are going to walk through the 3 areas of your business you need to be focused on in order to get unstuck from the middle. I guarantee this will show you the exact areas you are missing it, and give you the tools to take them to the next level, so you can stop getting vanilla work. Hit the link to be the first to know when it goes live: https://johnbunn.myflodesk.com/mentorship     In today's bonus episode, I sit down with Ryan Koral from the Grow Your Video Business Podcast and get interviewed by him. I think this episode is full of gold for you to really take into action in 2026. Also, be sure to check out Ryan's podcast here: https://www.studiosherpas.com/podcast 

Natalia Chappell is the founder of Natalia Chappell & Co, a UK-based consultancy helping luxury and lifestyle brands scale sustainably. Previously, she led marketing for THG's luxury division, working with brands like Coach and Ralph Lauren across price points from hundreds to thousands of pounds.In this episode of DTC Pod, Natalia breaks down what it really takes for US brands to win in the UK—and why so many get it wrong. She shares the full-funnel mistakes she sees premium brands make over and over, why some household US names thrived in Britain while others quietly retreated, and what's actually driving results on Meta right now. She also gets into how to connect with younger consumers who think differently about spending, and why the old playbook of polished content isn't cutting it anymore. Plus, her journey from corporate marketing leader to female founder, and what she wishes more people understood about building a business as a woman.Episode brought to you by StordInteract with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:1. Lessons from high-growth UK e-commerce brands 2. Creating sustainable, holistic marketing strategies3. Using data and analytics to drive channel mix decisions4. Optimizing for paid and organic synergy5. Landing page and website audit best practices6. UGC, influencer, and creator partnership frameworks7. Onboarding and managing creators for conversion and brand fit8. Navigating UK logistics, customs, and local expectations9. How to adapt brand voice and content for UK consumer10. UK cultural moments and how to plan campaigns around them11. Success stories (Drunk Elephant, Ralph Lauren, Coach) and why some US brands flop12. Digital-first approaches to brand building13. Upcoming trends—partnership ads, authentic content, and Gen Z consumers14. Supporting and growing as a female founder in e-commerceTimestamps00:00 Introduction to DTC POD and episode with Natalia Chappell01:18 Natalia's background: fashion, digital marketing, luxury brand experience03:26 Lessons learned building luxury and beauty e-commerce teams05:16 Becoming a female founder and launching Natalia Chappell & Co07:22 The type and scale of brands Natalia's agency works with09:07 Optimizing paid-to-organic mix for sustainable growth12:12 Data, analytics, and the importance of first-party data integrity13:33 Why understanding inventory and offer depth matters before scaling ads16:26 Building a marketing flywheel that feeds itself18:50 Audience segmentation, CRM, and conversion optimization20:08 Attribution modeling and keeping data integrations clean22:29 Organic growth: auditing website, SEO, landing pages, and reviews24:03 Content strategy: authentic UGC, influencers, and the UK market26:58 Equipping creators for conversion, not just reach29:25 Structuring affiliate and creator programs, commissioning vs. flat fees33:01 Logistics: Warehousing, customs, and UK delivery expectations36:54 Adapting voice, copy, and calendar to resonate in the UK38:34 Brand case studies: Drunk Elephant, Coach, Ralph Lauren41:09 Why some US brands struggle in the UK (Forever 21, etc.)44:21 Trends to watch: partnership ads, content authenticity, Gen Z targeting47:25 Where to find and connect with Natalia ChappellShow notes powered by CastmagicPast guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  Additional episodes you might like:• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands-----Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?Check out our newsletter here.Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internetOlivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplementCastmagic - AI Workspace for ContentFollow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!DTCPod InstagramDTCPod TwitterDTCPod TikTokNatalia Chappell - Founder of Natalia Chappell & Co.Blaine Bolus - Co-Founder of CastmagicRamon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

In this episode of Expand Your Fempire with Caterina Rando, marketing and summit queen Elaine Turso shares her entrepreneurial journey and discusses her business philosophy of operating in her 'zone of genius' by giving businesses a makeover using websites, branding, and CRM integration. She emphasizes the importance of running a business like a business and investing in proper resources. Caterina and Elaine encourage women to focus on collaboration, connection, and fun to grow their businesses authentically! Listen here and download show notes for super tips.

Episode 59: From Side Hustle to Steady Work: Proven Strategies to Attract and Keep Freelance ClientsIf you've ever wondered “Where do clients actually come from?” – we're breaking it down for you. Whether you're freelancing, consulting, building a service-based business, or exploring a portfolio career, this guide helps you understand how people really find and hire you.You'll learn what actually works to attract clients (and what doesn't), how to build relationships that lead to paid work, and the simple systems that make it easier to generate consistent opportunities. Jenn walks through approachable, real-world steps like sending an introductory email, hosting or joining workshops, tapping into referrals, showing up in aligned communities, and creating a supportive professional ecosystem.This episode is about clarity, confidence, and finding a sustainable way to grow your client base without relying on complicated funnels, constant posting, or high-pressure sales tactics.Episode HighlightsHow freelancers actually find clients — the real sources that work in 2025Why referrals outperform websites, social media, and traditional marketingThe simple email script that can kickstart your freelance or consulting pipelineHow to use workshops, communities, and “other people's audiences” to get discoveredTurning past employers, colleagues, and friends into paying clientsWhat to say when talking about your services so people actually understand and hire youWhy building a portfolio career requires consistent relationship-building, not sales tacticsThe essential systems every freelancer needs: a simple CRM and data-driven habitsEpisode Timestamps00:00 — Freelance Market Trends: Why More People Are Exploring Independent Work(search terms: freelance market trends, independent workers, job market shifts)03:12 — Career Support Opportunities: Retreats, Coaching Bundles & Community Resources(search terms: career coaching, professional development retreats, job search community, career resources)08:07 — Finding Your First Clients: How Service Providers Get Hired(search terms: find your first clients, client acquisition, service providers)11:06 — Referral Strategies That Actually Work for Freelancers and Consultants(search terms: referral strategies, freelance referrals, consulting clients)12:18 — Audience-Building 101: Using Networks, Workshops & Community Visibility(search terms: audience building, professional network growth, workshops, visibility)16:33 — Industry Peers as Partners: Tapping Into Collaborative Networks(search terms: collaborative networks, partnership marketing, freelance networking)20:04 — Turning Past Employers Into Clients (and Pitching Project-Based Work)(search terms: turn employer into client, project-based work, fractional roles)26:48 — Systems That Support Growth: Simple CRMs & Tracking What Matters(search terms: freelance CRM, business systems, client tracking tools)Resources and LinksRevive Your Career Session or BundleWork Wonders Careers Job Search CommunityConnect with Jenn on LinkedInSacred Structures: A Retreat Day for the Capricorn New MoonEpisode 56: How to Create Income Without a Corporate Job: Portfolio Careers, Self Employment and Other Ways to Make $$Episode 57: What to Do When Your Industry Is in Crisis: Resume Strategies and Job Search Tips to Help You Pivot Careers in a Tough MarketCreditsPodcast editing by Vienna DeGiacomo, Good Story Branding

In this empowering episode, Kristin sits down with systems expert and founder of Key Technology, Elena Kee, to explore the real journey behind building a business while navigating motherhood, burnout, and healing. Elena opens up about her battle with complex regional pain syndrome and how stress, hustle culture, and high performance contributed to her nervous system crash — and ultimately reshaped her approach to work and life. She shares how she turned her admin background into a thriving systems company that helps agents simplify, automate, and scale with intention. This conversation is packed with honesty, tactical insights, and a powerful reminder that you don't have to hustle yourself into the ground to succeed in real estate.Show Notes: How Elena's early admin and marketing experience inspired the creation of Key Technology.The surprising mind–body connection behind her nervous system disorder and what it taught her about stress, pace, and boundaries.Why most agents overcomplicate systems — and how to start small, sustainable, and strategic.The essential stages of CRM growth, from whiteboards to Follow Up Boss, and when to invest in better tools.How Elena's team is building next-level solutions like in-CRM transaction management, AI-driven systems, and accountability sweeps.Follow us on Instagram! Podcast: @‌momsinrealestateHost: @‌heykristencantrell @‌thehellocultureGuest: @elena.kee Check out our amazing sponsors: Your Tax Coach // Professional Tax Accountants. We're not just saving you money, we're changing lives! @‌yourtaxcoach‌ Colibri Real Estate // The online real estate school committed to flexibility. Click HERE to check out their amazing courses! 

In this episode of the Predictable Revenue Podcast, host Collin Stewart interviews Keith Peiris, co-founder and CEO of Lightfield.    He discusses the challenges faced in the early stages, the innovative strategies used for customer acquisition, and the importance of building strong relationships with early users. The conversation also delves into the significance of product market fit and the strategies employed during the launch of Lightfield.   Keith outlines future plans for the platform, emphasizing the goal of becoming the go-to CRM for startups and small businesses, while also highlighting the need for continuous innovation in the CRM space.   Highlights include: Finding the First Customers (06:52), Growth Through Word of Mouth (09:13), Creating Value Through Relationships (20:39), Understanding Product-Market Fit (26:04), and more... Stay updated with our podcast and the latest insights on Outbound Sales and Go-to-Market Strategies!

Post-BFCM Profits | How to Decode Your Data & Boost 2026 Sales Black Friday and Cyber Monday are over, but your most important work is just beginning. If you're only looking at total sales, you're missing the bigger picture. This episode of the Business of Apparel Podcast breaks down how to actually read your BFCM data so you can scale smarter, not just harder. Rachel is also diving into what to do after the madness of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Discover why focusing on gross sales alone is a costly mistake and how to analyze the data in your CRM, ad accounts, and customer base to optimize for real profitability and retention. Rachel walks us through the metrics that matter most, from profit margins, CAC, and AOV to customer segmentation and product performance. Whether you crushed it or feel like you barely made it through, this is your guide to making better, data-driven decisions for your apparel brand going into 2026. Plus, Rachel shares a sneak peek at a free 3-day Black Friday planning workshop coming in August 2026! Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Post-Black Friday Data 00:27 Analyzing Black Friday and Cyber Monday Data 02:34 Understanding Profit Margins and Sales Strategies 04:39 Masterclass and Advanced Strategies 05:14 Key Metrics: AOV and CAC 08:04 Inventory and Product Analysis 10:47 Customer Segmentation and Retention 12:14 Marketing Performance and Ad Analysis 15:43 Engaging New Customers and UGC 19:43 Upcoming Workshops and Final Thoughts   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

In today's episode, we unpack one of the most powerful—yet often underdeveloped—performance drivers in Sales Leadership: effective time management for sales teams.Even though it's one of the most talked-about skills in the professional world, time management remains a major challenge for both salespeople and sales leaders alike. Drawing on principles from Atomic Habits and the Ford Motor Company's process-efficiency revolution, this episode equips Sales Leaders with practical, actionable steps to sharpen their team's focus and eliminate the day-to-day chaos that drags down performance.Key Takeaways:Time management fuels Sales Growth, consistency, and customer experience.Sales teams MUST use their calendars as non-negotiable planning tools.Power Hours create deep work blocks that move deals forward faster.A CRM should guide workflow—not just store information.Every active deal needs a scheduled next step.These habits create clarity, structure, and 1% daily improvement.Time Stamps:0:00 Intro0:57 Time Management2:33 Calendars3:56 Setting Up Power Hours4:40 Making the CRM Non-Negotiable6:35 Action Items7:33 OutroTo learn more about our Coaching Program that is seriously growing our Customers sales: https://strongersalesteams.com/program/To book a time to Meet with Ben directly: https://strongersalesteams.com/strategy/This podcast helps the entrepreneur, founder, CEO, and business owner in the trade, construction and industry segments, regain focus, build confidence, and achieve measurable results through powerful sales training, effective sales strategy, and expert sales coaching—guiding every sales leader, sales manager, and sales team in mastering the sales process, optimizing the sales pipeline, and driving business growth while fostering leadership, balance, and freedom amidst overwhelm, stress, and potential burnout, creating lasting peace of mind and smarter decision making for every California business and Australia business ready to scale up with excellence in sales management.

Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business! As we continue our series on planning for a successful 2026, today's episode dives into one of the most underestimated skills in entrepreneurship: the ability to keep momentum going and take imperfect action. Inspired by recent discussions inside our Incubator Mastermind—and my own journey navigating newborn twins, a growing clinic, and everyday life—this episode breaks down why perfectionism slows us down, how momentum creates opportunities, and why “I get to” is the mindset shift that changes everything. Whether you're solo or leading a team, whether you're overwhelmed or thriving, this episode will help you stay focused, stay grounded, and keep moving forward—one imperfect action at a time. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:

If creating content feels like a treadmill you can't quite step off, this Working Session is your reset button. We brought in nonprofit marketing expert and author Julia Campbell to teach you how to build a simple, sustainable content calendar for your next two weeks — in under an hour.Julia walks us through her signature approach to content planning: one rooted in clarity, consistency, and choosing the platforms that actually support your goals. You'll learn how to identify your core content buckets, repurpose stories across channels, and build a weekly rhythm that doesn't burn you out.Top 3 Takeaways:Build Around Four Buckets: Impact, Engagement, Authority, and Human-Centered content give you a reliable weekly structure. When your buckets are clear, your content becomes far easier to plan.Work With Your Capacity, Not Against It: If you can't build your content calendar in an hour, you're probably on too many platforms. Julia breaks down how to evaluate where your audience truly is, what each channel does best, and how to double down without overwhelm.Stories Are Your Anchor: One strong story each week — with a hook, emotional resonance, and mission clarity — can power multiple posts across multiple channels. Storytelling is the breadcrumb trail that leads supporters toward deeper understanding (and engagement).This episode is packed with low-lift, high-clarity tactics to help you show up consistently — without reinventing your content strategy every week.Welcome back to Working Sessions: hands-on, clarity-filled conversations designed to help you move real work forward inside your organization.Let's get to work.Thank you to our partners

Most companies don't have a lead problem, they have a follow-up problem. In this episode of Sharkpreneur, Seth Greene interviews Jason Kramer, Founder & CEO at Cultivize, who breaks down how smart CRM strategy can transform “maybe someday” prospects into real revenue. Jason shares how his team helps manufacturing, roofing, finance, and home service businesses design, implement, and actually use CRM systems like HubSpot and Pipedrive so salespeople stop dropping the ball. With real-world case studies, including a roofing company that turned old quotes into seven-figure sales, Jason shows what's possible when technology, strategy, and authentic follow-up finally line up. Key Takeaways: → Why most growing businesses don't really know which marketing efforts are working, and how a properly set up CRM changes that. → The three simple criteria that define an ideal client for a CRM overhaul and why company size and sales team count matter. → The common problem shared by manufacturing, roofing, finance, and home service companies is that they send hundreds of proposals a year. → A behind-the-scenes case study of a roofing company that revived ignored quotes with a thoughtful, automated follow-up sequence. → How to design automated emails that feel genuine and personal, not robotic or canned, while still running on autopilot. Jason Kramer is the founder of Cultivize, a consulting firm that builds smart CRM strategies for business consultants and growth advisors. With over 20 years in marketing and business development, he helps experts transform their lead management systems into scalable growth engines. His process integrates CRM automation with email nurturing to create trackable, ROI-focused results for B2B and consulting clients. Jason's background includes work with global giants like Virgin Atlantic and Johnnie Walker, but today his focus is on supporting strategic advisors and fractional leaders who need visibility into what's working—and what's not—in their sales process. When he's not helping clients streamline their revenue systems, he's on the Hudson River with his family. Connect With Jason Kramer: Website: https://cultivize.com/ X: https://x.com/cultivize Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cultivize/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleighkramer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you could start your business all over again, what's the one piece of advice you'd give yourself? That's the question I asked three powerhouse entrepreneurs who've all made the leap from traditional jobs to unconventional, thriving businesses. Their answers aren't about regrets—they're about growth, clarity, and building with intention from day one.Whether you're at the start of your entrepreneurial journey or reevaluating how you're building, this episode is a toolkit of hard-earned wisdom. Listen in as Audrey Joy Kwan, Jaime Gordon, and Jenny Mac give you the advice they wish they could go back and give themselvesThe Unbreakable Business podcast is powered by HoneyBook, the AI-powered CRM platform for anyone with clients. Scale yourself and your business with all your leads, clients, projects, and payments in one place. Use the code PODCAST to get 20% off your first year as a new member.Connect with the Guests:audreyjoykwan.comjaimegordonlifecoaching.comelopingisfun.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perry is a marketing automation specialist who's been at it since 2002, from launching her first campaigns before most saw value in email, to beta testing HubSpot before it was a household name. Currently the Managing Partner at Duma Marketing, she's worked with both Fortune 500 giants and rising e-commerce brands, always championing sophisticated automation, clean segmentation, and authentic customer journeys. Her approach blends empathy with rigorous data—the kind of balance your listeners appreciate—and her hands-on methods in CRM, deliverability, and regulatory compliance make her a go-to for complex challenges. This conversation between Perry and Ella, explores the critical role of marketing automation and AI in processing consumer data and enhancing engagement for businesses, particularly for entrepreneurs and mid-sized companies. It emphasizes the necessity of these tools in creating tailored marketing strategies that resonate with diverse consumer segments.Learn even more from Perry at www.perrysheraw.com

Send us a textCustomers don't wait, and they don't remember who you are after they fill out three forms at 9:30 p.m. That's why this conversation zeroes in on the mechanics of modern selling for shed dealers: speed-to-lead in under 60 seconds, warm automation that follows up at least 14 times, AI call summaries that feed your ops and delivery teams, and clean attribution that finally shows which lead sources are worth the spend.We sit down with Joe and Brandon from Velocity360 to unpack how a sales-first CRM flips the usual script. Instead of piling on tools, they streamline the stack so every message lands in one place, the first contact fires instantly, and nurturing stays human and intentional. They share wins from dealers who doubled conversion rates and grew revenue by 25% in a single quarter—not by shouting louder, but by fixing the funnel leaks no one could see before: first response, follow-up discipline, and handoffs from sales to delivery.We also dig into the realities that stall teams: CRMs that take months to configure, reps who hate data entry, leadership with no visibility into what's working, and budgets wasted on channels that don't convert. The remedies are practical: white-glove setup built for the shed industry, AI that writes tight call notes automatically, integrations with configurators and marketplaces, and dashboards that show conversion by source in real time. If you've ever wondered why some dealers seem to sell on autopilot, this is the playbook.Want to turn more inquiries into installs and keep your team focused on real conversations instead of chasing ghosts? Press play, then share this with a fellow dealer. If it helps you spot one bottleneck, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what's your current response time—and what would 60 seconds change for you?For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.Would you like to receive our weekly newsletter?  Sign up here.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at info@shedgeek.com.This episodes Sponsors:Studio Sponsor: Shed ProShed SuiteIFABCardinal ManufacturingSolar Blaster Fans

When was the last time you took time to embrace life's inconvenient truths? In this episode Kalena James shares how to be a better leader by finding the value in embracing the uncomfortable.Listen now as Kalena James on why "It's About Time You Get Comfortable Being Uncomforable".Learn more about the latest tool for dynamic professionals in the self-improvement industry, LyfQuest. A mobile CRM platform that's uniquely made for you!Learn more at: https://lyfquest.io/Instagram:USW Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@uswkokomo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kalena James ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@yesitskalenajames⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Julie Deem ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@indymompreneur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠--------------------------------------------------USW Kokomo ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Production by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Business Podcast Editor⁠⁠⁠⁠

Do you really need a fancy all-in-one CRM to run your business like a pro? Plot twist: NOPE. In this episode, I'm breaking down how I've successfully onboarded hundreds of clients over the years—without ever stepping foot inside Dubsado, Honeybook, or any of those popular client management tools.This episode was inspired by a question from my Six-Figure Sprint client, Alyssa, who asked what CRM everyone uses. Spoiler: I don't use one. And the real kicker? I don't think you need to either (unless you want to!).Instead, I'm sharing my super streamlined, rinse-and-repeat onboarding process that doesn't require any complicated software. It's simple, boring, profitable—and ADHD-friendly. If your current system is clunky, chaotic, or (let's be honest) non-existent, this one's for you.In this episode, you'll learn:Why I've never used a CRM (and still built a multiple six-figure business)What you actually need to onboard clients seamlessly (hint: it's not 12 tools)A step-by-step walkthrough of my onboarding workflowThe 3 essential tools I use (and how to set them up in less than an hour)Why the welcome email is the most important part of your client experienceHow to use Asana or Airtable to manage clients without the overwhelmThe psychology behind clear client communication—and how it prevents burnoutMentioned Resources:Download the free client welcome email template: https://courtneychaal.com/welcome-emailWatch the free masterclass: https://courtneychaal.com/masterclassJoin Yay for Clients: https://courtneychaal.com/shopApply for Six-Figure Sprint: https://courtneychaal.com/apply Learn how to build a Client Booking Machine! I'll teach you the entire process at this free masterclass (a must-watch for service providers): https://courtneychaal.com/masterclass

Our second episode with Erin Straza turns to the practical mechanics of donor management—highlighting the importance of clean CRM data, consistent tagging, and documenting every donor interaction to track passion, advocacy, and giving habits over time. She rejects binder-thick academic segmentation models in favor of practical, usable systems that a nonprofit staff can realistically maintain. Key takeaways include: You cannot engage donors well without a functioning CRM Passion is measured through behavior (attendance, volunteering, giving consistency, social engagement), not surveys High-end donors require highly personalized, strategic touchpoints throughout their annual cycle Maintaining clean data today prevents massive organizational pain later. e welcome support of the Nonprofit SnapCast via Patreon. We welcome your questions and feedback via The Nonprofit SnapCast website. Learn more about Nonprofit Snapshot's consulting services.

Go from marketing chaos to marketing confidence, book a call with our team to learn how.In this Contractor Dynamics Masterclass, we break down five ways your “good enough” website is losing you roofing jobs—often without you even realizing it. Homeowners are doing more research than ever, trust is harder to earn, and your website is often the first sales conversation you never get to attend.If you're spending money on ads but your website leads are weak (or non-existent), or you keep losing bids to companies with worse workmanship but better online presence, this masterclass is for you. We'll show you the five most expensive website mistakes roofing companies make—and the practical fixes you can implement to increase trust, boost conversions, and plug your website into a real marketing and sales engine for 2026.Key Takeaways for Roofing Company Owners✔️ The 5-second test your website must pass✔️ Why looking like every roofer forces you to compete on price✔️ How to build trust and reduce risk (so you win more bids)✔️ The website conversion essentials: CTAs, speed-to-lead, and mobile UX✔️ How to connect your website to tracking, CRM, automations, and retargetingTimestamps00:00 Intro: 5 ways your “good enough” website loses jobs01:25 What to expect + why implementation matters03:05 Who Contractor Dynamics is (roofing-only since 2013)05:10 The problem: disconnected marketing + the “leaky bucket”07:10 How buying has changed in 2025 (80% decision before contact)10:05 Goal for today + overview of the 5 mistakes12:10 Mistake #118:55 Mistake #225:10 Mistake #332:10 Mistake #438:05 Mistake #543:05 Website before/after examples Connect with Contractor DynamicsWebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedIn#roofingcompany #roofingmarketing #contractordynamics #roofingbusiness #roofingwebsite #leadgeneration #marketingstrategy #businessgrowth #roofingcontractors #websitedesign

Here's the scenario that's playing out in sales organizations everywhere right now: Your team fought through a brutal first half of the year, rallied momentum in the second half, crushed their numbers, and now they're ready to coast through December. That's the exact situation Kyle Begbie, a regional sales director at Fuse HR Solutions in Ontario, Canada, brought to this week's Ask Jeb. His team overcame massive market disruption, economic headwinds, and buyer hesitation to finish the year strong. Now he's facing the most dangerous challenge of all: keeping that momentum alive through the holidays and into January. If you're nodding your head right now, you're not alone. This is the point in the year where sales teams either set themselves up for a championship quarter or dig themselves into a hole that takes months to climb out of. The Holiday Momentum Trap Here's what happened to Kyle's team, and it's probably happening to yours too: They worked incredibly hard through disruption and uncertainty. They pushed through discouragement when buyers were putting deals on hold. They ground it out for months to get back on track. And now they're exhausted. The holidays are here. Christmas music is playing. Everyone wants to take their foot off the accelerator and coast a little bit. This is why December and January are the most dangerous months for sales professionals. Here's the deal: Nothing really changed in the market from the first half of the year to the second half. Kyle's team faced the exact same headwinds, the same economic conditions, the same buyer concerns. The only thing that changed was what they believed. Once they believed they could win, they kept winning. And once buyers realized nothing was going to change and all of this was permanent, they got on with business. But here's the problem: If you take your foot off the accelerator now, you're going to pay for it in January and February. That's not motivation speak. That's math. The 30-Day Rule Will Make or Break Your Q1 The 30-day rule is simple: The prospecting you do in any given 30-day period pays off over the next 90 days. This is especially true in industries like staffing, but it applies to every sales role. If your team takes December off and doesn't prospect, you're going to have a catastrophic January and February. It's that simple. So the number one thing you need to do as a sales leader right now is get structure around prospecting. Every morning, your team needs to run their call blocks. They need to run their sequences. They need to go through the entire process, and that cannot stop. The only way you're going to lead this is from the front. Whether your team is dispersed or in the office, you need to be running prospecting blocks with them every single day all the way through the holidays. If you do that, you're going to be golden. Close What's Closable Before January 1 The second critical action is closing every deal in your pipeline that's actually closable right now. Your customers are thinking they have time. Your salespeople are thinking they have time. Nobody's pushing anybody. But here's the reality: If those deals roll over past Christmas into the New Year, the likelihood of closing them is almost zero. You're essentially starting all over again. Sit down with all your salespeople right now and walk through their pipeline. Identify every single deal where everything is lined up. Fit, budget, need, authority. Everything's qualified. The only thing keeping you from closing is they haven't said yes yet. Get in the middle of those deals and find a way to get them closed. That gives you momentum going into the new year. December feels great. And in staffing or any service business, those December closes become revenue in January, February, and March, which takes massive pressure off your team. Set Your Team Up for Success in January This is a critical time to start thinking about setting yourself up for success in the new year. While everyone else is checking out, you should be: Building targeted prospect lists for Q1. Identify your ideal prospects for January, February, and March right now so you can hit the ground running. Cleaning up your CRM. Get your data organized. Update records. Remove garbage. Make sure your team has clean, actionable information when they come back. Revisiting close-lost deals from earlier in the year. Especially deals from the first half of 2025 where buyers were hesitating or went with a competitor. Maybe the grass wasn't greener. Maybe they still have the same problems. Build those lists now so you can attack them hard in January. Following up on qualified leads that stalled. There are good leads sitting in your system that were qualified but couldn't move because of timing or market conditions. Gather those up and get lists together for your team. What you're doing here is acting like a coach getting your players in position to win. Because here's what happens if you don't: You come off the holidays, get into the first part of the year, and watch your sales team waste the first two weeks of January walking around in a daze, not knowing what to do. You want to make sure that the first Monday of the new year, you're running prospecting blocks, talking to customers, and working deals. Not figuring out what you should be doing. The Power of Celebration and Storytelling The last piece of maintaining momentum is taking time to celebrate what your team accomplished. Sit down with your team and tell them the story of what they did this year. Make sure they understand the lesson: When they shifted their mindset, they changed their game. That's what happened. Tell them they did a great job. Make sure they're taking time for their family and having fun. Help them manage their time so they can do both. But fill up their hearts with confidence and belief that they can do anything. Because here's the truth: Nothing changed this year except for them. And if that's true, then nothing can stop them next year either. It doesn't matter what happens in the marketplace. Even if we go into a recession, people are still hiring. The money is still there. It's just that more people are chasing it. Teach your team that it doesn't make a difference what happens. The economy can fall apart, but they're good enough to go find where the money is and take it. Because while everyone else is sitting around telling themselves what they can't do, your team is telling themselves what they can do. That's how you carry momentum. That's how you avoid the January hole. And that's how you build a championship sales team. Ready to take your sales game to the next level? Check out The LinkedIn Edge to learn how to leverage the world's most powerful B2B social selling platform to fill your pipeline, build relationships, and close more deals.

Send us a textWhen Google's algorithm changes caused HubSpot's traffic to plummet 80%, most companies would have panicked.Aja Frost saw an opportunity.As Senior Director of Global Growth at HubSpot, Aja led the transformation that helped HubSpot not only recover—but become the most-cited CRM in generative AI results.In this episode of FUTUREPROOF., Jeremy Goldman sits down with Aja to talk about how the rules of discovery, demand, and digital visibility are being rewritten in real time—and why Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) may be the next big discipline marketers can't afford to ignore.They discuss: 

In this episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, Sean V. Bradley sits down with longtime industry strategist Troy Spring to discuss the evolving state of automotive advertising. With nearly four decades in the business, Troy brings a perspective shaped by experience, data, and a deep understanding of what truly moves the needle for dealerships! "I've never seen anything work better than direct mail ever." - Troy Spring From traditional marketing channels to modern digital ecosystems, the conversation explores how dealers think about their market, their budget, and the strategies that shape their advertising decisions. Sean and Troy examine the realities dealerships face today, from vendor relationships to the role of in-house marketing leadership, and why understanding your market is more important now than ever! "It's a chess match. It's not just advertising. It's about looking at everything holistically." - Troy Spring This episode challenges assumptions, reframes how dealers view their advertising spend, and offers a candid look at the mindset needed to succeed in a competitive landscape. If you're a Dealer, General Manager, marketing manager, or anyone responsible for driving traffic and generating opportunities… this is a conversation you'll want to hear firsthand! Tune in to learn how top operators are rethinking their advertising journey, and why the next evolution of automotive marketing starts with clarity, strategy, and control!   Key Takeaways: ✅ Direct mail remains one of the most effective traditional advertising methods for car dealerships, often outperforming digital strategies. ✅ To optimize marketing spend, dealers need to focus on their immediate market area before expanding efforts to broader markets. ✅ Understanding and calculating the true cost-per-sale involves more than just the simple division of ad spend by cars sold. ✅ Dealerships should ensure their marketing managers have both automotive sales experience and technical knowledge in digital marketing certifications. ✅ Successful dealer strategies often include a mix of both traditional and digital marketing methods, customized to their specific market needs.   About Troy Spring Troy Spring, Co-founder of Dealer World, is an automotive industry veteran with nearly 40 years of experience! He sold his first car at the age of 18 and rose quickly within the ranks to manage dealerships, including leading a four-store group as a platform manager. In 2009, Troy founded Dealer World, a boutique advertising agency specializing in driving traffic and sales strategy for car dealerships. He later co-founded Dealer Funnel, focusing on nurturing leads for better conversion rates. Known for his innovative approach and in-depth understanding of both traditional and digital automotive marketing, Troy is highly respected in the industry!   Disrupting Auto Dealership Strategies: Insights from Industry Experts Key Takeaways Dealers must focus on securing their local market before venturing into new territories to maximize profitability. A holistically-managed marketing plan, customizable per dealership's needs, outperforms cookie-cutter OEM vendor solutions. Successful dealership marketing relies on understanding both traditional and digital advertising fundamentals. The Importance of Protecting Your Primary Market Area (PMA) In the fast-paced world of automotive dealerships, focusing on expansion without reinforcing the existing customer base can be a recipe for inefficiency. Sean V. Bradley, president of Dealer Synergy, suggests a foundational strategy: focus on protecting your primary market area first. Bradley asserts that many dealers overlook the rich opportunities available locally. "It's interesting," Bradley remarks, "we'll sit with a dealer, and they'll say, 'I got to go after XYZ down the street,' when they should be protecting their backyard first." This discussion highlights that the inclination to conquest rather than consolidate can lead to a dilute marketing focus. The result? Dealers potentially miss out on higher return-on-investment (ROI) opportunities domestically. Bradley's recommendation to analyze the pump-in, pump-out report is a strategic reminder to first solidify one's standing locally. This approach not only optimizes ROI but also reduces advertising costs associated with pursuing less familiar, distant markets. Taking Bradley's advice to heart, a dealership can enjoy the double benefit of deepening customer loyalty while also enhancing word-of-mouth marketing locally. Through focusing efforts on holding on to current clientele before aggressively targeting competitors', dealerships can achieve a more sustainable, profitable growth model. Crafting a Custom Marketing Strategy: Beyond OEM and Vendor Scripts Both Bradley and Troy Spring, founder of Dealer World, make compelling cases against the dependency on prescribed OEM and vendor-driven tactics. Amid the rising challenges facing automotive dealerships, they argue for a bespoke marketing strategy that's adaptable to each dealership's unique environment. Spring states, "You have to be with someone who can think holistically because if you're on with linear OEM vendors, you're just gonna get told why you should continue to do more and more of what it is that they sell." Such insights underscore the limitations of formulaic marketing solutions. While OEMs often push for uniformity—to simplify their nationwide branding and operations—dealerships must vigilantly evaluate these suggestions. Bradley underscores a critical point, proposing that dealers risk spending thousands unnecessarily on ineffective lead generation strategies because they blindly follow OEM guidance. The conversation dives into the economics of advertising. Bradley shared, "I've got a dealer group spending $70,000 on a splash page generating just a few hundred leads each month." This statistic serves as a caution against the pitfalls of not closely scrutinizing advertising expenditures versus results. It's essential for dealerships to cultivate an advertising strategy where each segment, from pay-per-click (PPC) to SEO and database marketing, functions as an integrated system rather than disparate efforts. This avoids the trap of bloated expenses disguised within bundled packages, which can negate perceived savings with reduced effectiveness. Bridging Traditional and Digital Advertising for Maximum Impact The discussion also delves into appreciating the coexistence of traditional and digital advertising within dealership marketing, which offers a nuanced approach to driving traffic. One standout revelation from Troy Spring? The effectiveness of direct mail. Although often regarded as an antiquated medium, Spring asserts, "Nothing has ever worked better than direct mail." It's a thought-provoking declaration in an era rich with digital solutions. Contrary to perceived obsolescence, traditional methods such as direct mail remain relevant, especially when optimized with the latest data analytics techniques. Properly targeted, a traditional medium can reach high potential customers directly and personally. Given the inundation of digital ads, a physical piece of mail stands out, often carrying more weight. Spring further suggests that while digital tools, like social media and search engine marketing (SEM), play critical roles in modern strategies, their effectiveness hinges heavily on their synergy with traditional advertising channels. These multifaceted campaigns leverage the strengths of both domains—ability to track and personalize digital ads with the tangible and trust-building potential of offline methods. Emphasizing on integrative approaches that couple interactive digital platforms with traditional media allows dealerships to engage in comprehensive advertising strategies personalized to consumer behavior trends. Through harmonizing these forces, a dealership's presence is effectively cemented in the market, leveraging the best aspects of each medium. A Synthesis of Strategy and Practice The insights shared by Sean V. Bradley and Troy Spring showcase a wealth of expertise in crafting dealership marketing strategies that balance innovative thinking with foundational business tenets. As dealerships navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving industry landscape, these professionals emphasize the necessity for both strategic foresight and a command over advertising mechanics. Essentially, the most adept dealerships will be those that recognize the imperative to protect their primary markets while scaling responsibly. They explore bespoke advertising solutions beyond OEM packages, integrating digital dexterity with traditional marketing. Each dollar spent should be scrutinized for its ROI, as the measure of an effective advertisement goes beyond impressions or clicks to the tangible growth it champions for the dealership. In an industry as competitive as automotive sales, this layered, integrated approach becomes the solutions beacon through transformative, modern advertising challenges.   Resources + Our Proud Sponsors: ➼ The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Mastermind Group in the Automotive Industry with over 29,000 members worldwide. Collaborate with automotive professionals, learn the best industry practices, and connect with top mentors, managers, and sales leaders. Join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! ➼ Dealer Synergy: The automotive industry's #1 Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm. With over 20 years of proven success, Dealer Synergy has helped dealerships nationwide build high-performing Internet Departments and BDCs from the ground up. Our expertise includes phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, lead handling strategies, and management processes; all designed to maximize your people, processes, and technology! ➼ Bradley On Demand: The automotive industry's most powerful Interactive Training, Tracking, Testing, and Certification Platform. With LIVE virtual classes and access to a library of over 9,000 on-demand training modules, Bradley On Demand gives your dealership the tools to dominate every department: Sales, Internet, BDC, CRM, Phone, and Leadership. From sharpening individual skills to elevating entire teams, this platform ensures your people are trained, tested, and certified for maximum success. Equip your dealership to sell more cars, more often, and more profitably with Bradley On Demand!  

When a bookkeeper decides to start their own bookkeeping business, their minds go to one place: getting clients. A lot of these bookkeepers naturally gravitate toward sorting out their CRM first. They want something concrete to work with so they know they're ready when a client finally signs with them… But it's putting the cart before the horse. Having your CRMs sorted out is important. But it's not the first thing you need to focus on. You need to get people warmed up to you and your offer first, and the easiest way to do that is setting up a self-sustaining marketing system. Not as easy as it sounds, right? Marketing can feel like this big, nebulous thing without a clear place to start, especially for left-brained logistical people like us. But don't fret! I'm here today to demystify marketing for you…and tell you exactly what you should be focusing on as a new bookkeeper.    EPISODE RESOURCES: Season 2 of Profits & Prosecco is HERE! Kick off your newest podcast addiction (or celebrate its return!) and listen to Episode 1 now: https://open.spotify.com/show/4dB0ZE8JaxqrkImm3Ifxrb  Sick of imposter syndrome keeping you stuck? Join the new + improved BECOME A BOOKKEEPER now: https://www.katieferro.com/become  Want a peek behind the curtain into LIBBY, my program all about what it really takes to have a simple and scalable (and successful) bookkeeping business? Get access to my free, on-demand four-part series, 6 Secrets to a Simple, Scalable Bookkeeping Business: www.katieferro.com/6-secrets Learn how to take your bookkeeping skills and turn them into a business that allows you to replace (or surpass) your corporate salary, be present for your life, and profoundly impact your clients without selling your life in the process by joining Life by the Books (LIBBY).     CONNECT WITH KATIE: Website: https://www.katieferro.com/ For first dibs (and the best prices!) on new offers from me, follow me on Instagram, then subscribe to my email list:  IG: www.instagram.com/orderlyaccountingbykatie Email Opt In: www.katieferro.com/email

Show highlights include:-AI note-takers and why 2025 is shaping up to be “the year of the note taker”.-How advisors are using automation to reclaim time and improve meeting quality.-Why organic growth is becoming a top priority for billion-dollar RIAs.-The true indicators that it's time to outgrow an entry-level CRM.-How disconnected systems create hidden cost drains inside every firm.-Why Salesforce is becoming the long-term “holy grail” for growth-minded advisors.-The KPIs most advisors aren't tracking - but should.Brian and Sue make one thing clear: the firms winning today are the ones treating CRM as the engine of the entire business - the system where data, insights, efficiency, and client experience all come together.Download our whitepaper here: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com/resources/ Articles discussed today include:  https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/financial-services/financial-services-industry-outlooks/investment-management-industry-outlook.htmlhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/customer-satisfaction-individual-annuities-strained-120000029.html?https://www.investmentnews.com/fintech/summit-financial-massmutual-boost-advisor-appeal-with-growth-focused-tech/261873?Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/