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Is your CRM helping you drive placements—or just creating more admin work? In this episode of SmartBug on Tap, host Alexandra Whitmore (VP of Sales at SmartBug Media) sits down with Casey Peddicord (Senior Director of Channel Sales at SmartBug) to uncover the biggest mistakes staffing firms make with CRM strategy—and how to fix them. From poor adoption and messy data to clunky handoffs between recruiters and sales, Casey shares why so many firms struggle to get real ROI from their systems—and what a healthy, revenue-driving CRM should actually look like. You'll learn: ✅ The top pitfalls staffing firms face with CRM adoption and usage ✅ How to spot the warning signs your CRM is costing you placements and revenue ✅ What separates “using” a CRM from optimizing one ✅ How HubSpot helps break down silos between sales, recruiters, and marketing ✅ Practical steps leaders can take today to improve CRM performance Whether you're relying on a legacy staffing CRM, piecing together spreadsheets, or trying to integrate an ATS with your tech stack, this episode will help you rethink how CRM strategy should work for your business. ⏱️ Key Highlights: [01:08] Why recruiters resist CRM adoption (and how leadership buy-in changes everything) [02:32] Data overload: when CRMs become a chore instead of a growth engine [03:55] Missed placements: spotting signs your CRM is quietly draining revenue [06:25] Using vs. optimizing a CRM — why it's the difference between record-keeping and revenue-driving [12:20] What a healthy CRM system looks like for staffing firms today [16:56] Breaking down silos: aligning sales, recruiters, and marketing inside your CRM [22:04] How HubSpot automation turns handoffs into handshakes [27:21] The role of AI in scaling recruiter productivity without losing the human touch [30:04] A quick-win staffing metric you can improve this week [32:03] The mindset shift: moving from “reporting tool” to “revenue tool” [33:52] How SmartBug helps staffing firms customize and optimize HubSpot for growth
In This Episode What separates a company that grows sustainably from one that stalls out? According to Juan DeAngulo, it's all about process. In this engaging conversation with host Adi Klevit, Juan shares how structured systems transform founder-dependent sales into scalable, repeatable growth. Juan reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, including scaling a real estate investment firm and attending Harvard Business School's OPM program, where he realized his passion for building structured organizations. He then dives into the creation of Inselligence, explaining how its proprietary algorithms plug into CRMs to deliver insights that help businesses identify bottlenecks, segment pipelines, and improve sales and marketing alignment. Throughout the interview, Juan and Adi emphasize the power of process in sales—from documenting superstar behaviors to designing workflows that managers and teams can actually follow. They highlight how data-backed systems not only increase efficiency but also empower people, making companies stronger, more predictable, and ultimately more scalable.
You didn't start your business to stay stuck. If you're ready to finally hit 6 or 7 figures WITHOUT burning out — book a call with our team → https://weddingproceo.com/applicationTired of clunky software that makes your job harder? In this episode, I share how my team moved away from an “all-in-one” CRM and paired Dubsado with Timeline Genius to streamline workflows, create professional, customizable timelines, and save hours of stress. Tune in to learn how you can ditch the overwhelm and run your business with efficiency and confidenceThe (FREE!)ASSUME Sales Training: 2x your wedding bookings in 30 days—step by step. Thousands of wedding pros have already used it to land more clients immediately! http://weddingproceo.com/freetrainingorgDiscover Timeline Genius! https://www.timelinegenius.comA favorite book of mine: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz https://amzn.to/4lbqZFwAnother favorite book of mine: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell https://amzn.to/3ITKLb4========================= EPISODE SHOW NOTES BLOG & MORE:https://weddingproceo.com/why-we-switched-crms-part-2/=========================Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Wedding Pro CEO Podcast. If you find these strategies helpful, make sure to share this episode with your fellow wedding pros. And remember, in the world of weddings, it's all about building genuine relationships and showcasing your best work. Until next time, keep shining, CEOs! PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST! LEAVE A REVIEW HERE: https://ratethispodcast.com/swdHave a question you'd like Brandee to answer? Ask here: http://bit.ly/3ZoqPmzHeads up, CEO! Some of the links I share may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and love, and that I believe will help you grow a profitable, sustainable business you're obsessed with.=========================FREE TRAINING for Wedding Business Owners Take the Wedding Pro CEO's free GAP assessmentSupport the show
In this episode, co-host James Miille speaks with the CEO behind his software secret. For years, James has used a digital tool to organize the interactions he's made in his career as an artist, helping him transform different kinds of relationships into sales. CRMs – if you're not familiar with the acronym, you will be by the end of this episode. Guest: Andy Fowler, CEO and co-founder of Nutshell For more information on applying to The Superfair as well as recordings of this and all of our past episodes, visit www.thesuperfair.com.IG: @thesuperfair, @theartistbusinessplanIG: @nutshellcrmEmail questions and comments to abp@thesuperfair.com.Hosted and Executive Produced by James Miille and Alexander MitowSenior Producer: Parth Shah
Thinking about switching CRMs, moving off spreadsheets, or just getting more from the system you already use? Kevin Wood of NPact breaks down the realities of nonprofit data management, the hidden costs of poor systems, and how to make CRM transitions smoother. A must-listen for any nonprofit leader planning for growth.
In this episode of Stronger Sales Teams, Ben Wright is joined by Carmen Williams. Drawing on her extensive expertise and industry experience, Carmen highlights the pivotal role virtual assistants play in removing administrative burdens, allowing sales professionals to focus squarely on revenue-generating activities. Together, Ben and Carmen delve into the wide-ranging benefits of integrating virtual assistants, from accelerating lead response times and managing CRMs to streamlining vital sales processes. About the Guest: Carmen Williams is the founder of Global Teams, an organisation dedicated to helping business leaders – particularly sales managers – unlock their team's full potential by reducing non-revenue generating tasks through the strategic use of virtual assistants. With years of experience across a wide range of industries, Carmen has guided businesses in streamlining processes and enabling their teams to concentrate on high-value, growth-focused activities. Her expertise is especially recognised in deploying skilled virtual resources from the Philippines and South Africa, fostering stronger productivity and efficiency within sales environments. Key Takeaways: Virtual assistants are an invaluable asset for optimising sales processes by handling admin and non-core tasks, allowing sales teams to focus more on building customer relationships and closing deals. Properly scoping the responsibilities for virtual assistants is crucial for success. Clear definition of tasks ensures that virtual assistants can meet expectations and deliver tangible value. Cultural understanding and regular communication with virtual assistants can strengthen integration and contribute to their long-term retention. The contact rate and speed in responding to leads can significantly impact sales effectiveness, with virtual assistants playing a critical role in improving these metrics. Businesses new to employing virtual assistants should start small, refine their processes, and remain open to learning from initial mistakes to realise long-term productivity gains. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:21 Guest Introduction 2:47 Carmen's Business 4:13 Virtual Assistant's Help To Focus On Customers 7:17 Touch Points To Close Deals 8:30 Common Mistakes Virtual Assistants Make 10:51 Getting the Most Out Of Virtual Assistants 12:40 Mindset Challenges Around Virtual Assistants 16:03 Hot Spots For Virtual Resources 17:17 Where To Start In Hiring Virtual Assistants 19:28 Guest's Socials 20:23 Outro Rate, Review, & Follow If you're liking what you're hearing, make sure you ‘follow' the show wherever you listen to your podcasts…so you never miss an episode! I'd also love to hear what you think, so drop us a review after you close that next deal…tell me what you're liking, and what you want more of so I can look to cover it in a future episode.
In this episode of The Market Pulse, host Aaron Fichera sits down with Robert Cowes, Founder of SmartTouch® Interactive and the key architect behind the award-winning NexGen CRM. With the recent release of the platform's new user-interface and features, Robert shares the vision behind the redesign and how it's transforming the way sales managers and agents work in today's environment. Beyond the platform, Robert dives into his expertise on why many CRMs fail, what sales leaders should focus on to drive adoption, and the daily CRM habits that separate top-performing sales executives from the rest. He also shares his perspective on the future of CRM technology—from AI-driven insights to predictive analytics—and how NexGen is positioned to keep teams ahead of the curve. Whether you're a sales manager looking to harness the power of data, or a sales professional wanting to turn more leads into closings, this episode is packed with actionable insights, takeaways and an exclusive look at the next generation of CRM technology.
Show Highlights:-The shift from static databases to intelligent, proactive CRMs.-How AI and automation streamline advisor workflows and client communications.-Real stories on personalization, from birthday emails to portfolio updates.-Why understanding acquisition costs is critical for advisors.-Best practices for securing client data and minimizing risk.-How intelligent CRMs can differentiate advisors in a competitive marketplace.Tune in as Brian and Sue provide a forward-looking perspective on the role technology will play in the advisor-client relationship and how firms can prepare for the next generation of CRM solutions.
TradeThrive - Sales, Marketing & Automations For Contractors
In today's episode of the 31 Days of Value, I talk about the real challenges and responsibilities of being a business owner. I share why it's so important to build a business that can live on as a legacy instead of becoming a burden for the next generation. I walk through the steps that make this possible—like hiring the right people, creating systems to run the business without you, and leveraging tools like CRMs and marketing agencies. This episode is all about challenging yourself to reflect on how you're currently running your business and asking the bigger question: am I creating value that lasts beyond me?Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2v0D0SNSBofqJJE6zApEE1DripJobs Demo: https://calendly.com/dripjobsteam/dripjobsdemoGusto: https://gusto.com/i/tanner269OpenPhone: https://openph.one/referral/8Kc17aqFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/173750747824373/?ref=shareFollow me on Instagram: http://Instagram.com/officialtannermullen
Starting or growing your painting business? Got questions? We've got answers.In this episode of Brush Busters, Jesse and Gavin tackle real questions from painting contractors, overing everything from forming an LLC to switching CRMs to figuring out where to focus when you're just getting started.Whether you're launching your business, trying to stay organized, or just feeling overwhelmed by all the platforms and decisions in front of you, this episode brings clarity, direction, and some solid laughs along the way.
Send us a textIn this episode of Imperfect Marketing, host Kendra Corman welcomes Paul Schmidt, a digital marketing strategist and CRM optimization expert from SmartBug Media. Paul brings a unique perspective to the conversation, having transitioned from a career in music to becoming a full-funnel marketer focused on solving complex customer challenges.Together, they dive into how businesses—especially small to mid-sized ones—can better leverage CRMs and customer marketing to drive real business growth.Common Pitfalls in CRM ImplementationWhy choosing a CRM based on competitors' choices can backfireThe importance of mapping out goals and processes before selecting a toolHow poor data hygiene sabotages CRM successWhy your CRM must reflect where your business is today, not 10 years agoRethinking the Role of CRMThe value of a “single source of truth” for customer dataHow a CRM bridges marketing, sales, and customer successThe cost of fragmented data: lost productivity and missed opportunitiesWhy understanding the customer journey post-sale is just as importantBuilding a Culture Around Customer MarketingWhy most companies underinvest in current customers and social proofHow to shift from new-logo obsession to full-lifecycle marketingThe challenges of measuring customer marketing—and why it's still worth itReal-world strategies to surface and capture meaningful client storiesCreating a Case Study PipelineTreating case studies like a sales process: stages, approvals, publishingHow five-star reviews can feed your customer story engineManaging internal alignment with CSMs and account managers to gather testimonialsWhat to do when clients say “no” to using their logo (hint: anonymize it!)Key Takeaways for Marketers and Business OwnersAlways start with your goals, not the techUse CRM to unify and elevate—not just automateCustomer success stories are marketing gold, but require intention and processEveryone on your team—from sales to support—can contribute to your social proof engineBonus Wisdom: Discovering Your Marketing SuperpowerPaul shares his biggest lesson learned in marketing: the importance of discovering and developing your "superpower"—whether that's SEO, CRM implementation, or AI. He encourages professionals at every stage of their career to become known for something specific, then evolve it over time to stay relevant and valuable.Whether you're just starting with a CRM or ready to scale your customer marketing efforts, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you make smarter, more strategic decisions.Are you ready to stop phoning in your CRM and start building a foundation for future growth? Tune in now and learn how!Connect with Paul Schmidt:Website: https://www.smartbugmedia.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drumming/Youtube: Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage?Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I've got all your AI curiosities covered. It's the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here
Episode 165 In this powerful episode, Steve Kyles and I unpack how the Loan Officer AI CRM is transforming the mortgage industry. We dive deep into the impact it's made on our businesses—specifically how it's replaced three to four other services most loan officers rely on, all in one platform. But the real game changer? Live Zoom Support. Unlike other CRMs that leave you to figure it all out, Loan Officer AI CRM provides real-time help to ensure loan officers actually deploy their marketing efforts and maximize every feature built into the system. Whether you're managing leads, running automations, or executing smart follow-up campaigns, this CRM makes it simpler, faster, and more effective—saving you money and growing your business Learn more and see it in action at http://loanofficercrm.ai Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit DailySuccessPlan.com.
Today's show features: Ryan Rohrman, CEO of Rohrman Auto Group Michael McDonald, Assistant Head Coach of Marketing, Jeff Wyler Automotive Family Carolina Pereira, Marketing & Technology Director at Weston Nissan Volvo` This episode is brought to you by: Prime Dealer Equity Fund - Prime Dealer Equity Fund is providing a limited number of accredited investors with $100,000 or more the rare opportunity to invest directly into franchised auto dealerships; the offering can only be made via the Private Placement Memorandum under Regulation 506(c). Led by seasoned operators with deep experience in both dealership operations and fund management, the fund is designed to deliver consistent cash flow and long-term capital appreciation. f you're looking to diversify into this asset class—this is your chance. Check out https://primedealerfund.com/CDG/ to learn more. Disclaimer: This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy securities. Any investment can only be made through the official Private Placement Memorandum and only by verified accredited investors. Nothing stated here should be considered investment advice. — Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
You didn't start your business to stay stuck. If you're ready to finally hit 6 or 7 figures WITHOUT burning out — book a call with our team → https://weddingproceo.com/applicationAfter years of sticking with an "all-in-one" platform, I finally faced the hard truth—it wasn't doing everything well, and it was costing my team time, efficiency, and client experience. In this first part of our CRM switch series, you'll hear exactly how we decided to break up with our old system, why we chose Dubsado, and how pairing it with specialist tools is making our business run smoother than ever. The (FREE!)ASSUME Sales Training: 2x your wedding bookings in 30 days—step by step. Thousands of wedding pros have already used it to land more clients immediately! http://weddingproceo.com/freetrainingorg========================= EPISODE SHOW NOTES BLOG & MORE:https://weddingproceo.com/why-we-switched-crms-part-1/=========================Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Wedding Pro CEO Podcast. If you find these strategies helpful, make sure to share this episode with your fellow wedding pros. And remember, in the world of weddings, it's all about building genuine relationships and showcasing your best work. Until next time, keep shining, CEOs!PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST! LEAVE A REVIEW HERE: https://ratethispodcast.com/swd Have a question you'd like Brandee to answer? Ask here: http://bit.ly/3ZoqPmz=========================FREE TRAINING for Wedding Business Owners Take the Wedding Pro CEO's free GAP assessmentSupport the show
Scott and Wes tackle listener questions on everything from local-first databases and AI-built CRMs to protecting APIs and raising kids with healthy digital habits. They also weigh in on Cloudflare's AI crawler ban, portfolio critiques, and more hot takes from the dev world. Show Notes 00:00 Welcome to Syntax! 00:49 Dreaming about web components. 02:55 Local-First Apps for Customer Support. Brought to you by Sentry.io 08:17 AI-Built CRM: Portfolio or Problem? Ben Vinegar's Engineering Interview Strategy. 18:55 InstantDB vs. Other Local-First Databases. 21:46 Raising Kids with Healthy Digital Habits. Porta Potty Prince on TikTok. 32:55 Cloudflare Blocks AI Crawlers. Good for Creators? Cloudflare Pay Per Crawl. Cloudflare No AI Crawl Without Compensation. Chris Coyier's Blog Response. 41:46 Protecting APIs and Obfuscating Source Code. 44:49 Will Portfolio Critiques Return? 46:45 Sick Picks + Shameless Plugs. Sick Picks Scott: Wifi 7 Eero. Wes: Plastic Welder Shameless Plugs Scott: Syntax on YouTube Hit us up on Socials! Syntax: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads Wes: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads Scott: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads Randy: X Instagram YouTube Threads
Data-Driven B2B Growth in 2025: Insights from Hamlet Azarian of Azarian Growth AgencyIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, Josh Elledge talks with Hamlet Azarian, CEO of Azarian Growth Agency, about how B2B companies can accelerate growth in 2025 using real-time data, AI integration, and signal-based marketing strategies. Hamlet explains how his team helps founder-led startups and mid-market companies break through revenue plateaus by aligning marketing and sales processes with timely, personalized outreach. This conversation reveals the specific tactics, tools, and mindset shifts businesses need to stay competitive in today's fast-changing landscape.Leveraging Signals, AI, and Authenticity for Sustainable GrowthHamlet emphasizes that the traditional, linear sales funnel is being replaced by signal-based marketing, where businesses act on real-time indicators like industry news, contract awards, or leadership changes within target accounts. This approach enables highly relevant outreach that improves conversion rates and strengthens relationships. Azarian Growth Agency uses platforms like Clay, combined with CRMs such as HubSpot or Salesforce, to capture and act on these signals efficiently.Beyond signals, Hamlet shares how his agency has been “AI-first” since 2020, embedding artificial intelligence into marketing and sales workflows for everything from prospect research to content creation. By building “core files” containing brand guidelines, customer personas, and case studies, AI outputs remain accurate, on-brand, and strategically aligned. Human oversight ensures AI acts as a co-pilot, not a replacement, preserving quality and authenticity.For SaaS founders, Hamlet recommends a founder-led social media strategy to generate excitement and credibility before launch. By openly sharing the product journey—including both wins and challenges—leaders can build trust, encourage audience engagement, and create anticipation. Combined with Azarian Growth Agency's selective onboarding process and complimentary exploratory audits, this authenticity-driven approach sets the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth.About Hamlet AzarianHamlet Azarian is the CEO of Azarian Growth Agency, a B2B marketing consultancy specializing in data-driven growth strategies. With a focus on real-time engagement, AI integration, and scalable processes, Hamlet has helped startups and mid-market companies across industries accelerate revenue growth and optimize marketing performance.About Azarian Growth AgencyAzarian Growth Agency partners with B2B companies to deliver predictable, scalable growth through data enrichment, automation, and signal-based marketing. Their services include marketing strategy, AI integration, sales enablement, and founder-led brand building. The agency works selectively with clients to ensure strong alignment and measurable impact, offering free exploratory audits to identify high-value growth opportunities.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeAzarian Growth Agency WebsiteHamlet Azarian on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsWhy traditional funnels are being replaced by signal-based marketing.How AI can accelerate marketing and sales without replacing human judgment.The importance of core files to
In this episode, Felipe shares how his AI-powered tool seamlessly integrates with CRMs to capture, analyze, and leverage real customer conversations. From recording interactions to providing actionable insights, Felipe explains how advisors and sales teams can boost productivity, strengthen client relationships, and make data-driven decisions—all without disrupting their workflow. We also talk about the challenges of working with less-than-perfect internet, the humor in everyday names, and the exciting possibilities of AI in customer engagement.
Joe Killinger reveals how agents can build wealth through commercial deals, triple-net properties, and smart investing. Discover value-adding secrets and why listening might be your biggest moneymaker yet.See full article: https://www.unitedstatesrealestateinvestor.com/from-farm-roots-to-fortune-turning-chaos-into-commercial-gold-with-joe-killinger/(00:00) - Introduction to The REI Agent Podcast(00:24) - Mattias Recaps Camping, Parenting, and Erica's Trip(02:36) - Joe Killinger Joins the Show: From Nebraska to LA(06:21) - Creating a Real Estate Agent Investment Fund(09:02) - Removing Wealth Requirements for Investors(10:36) - The Power of Syndications and Bonus Depreciation(11:59) - Investing as the Ultimate Learning Tool(12:41) - Residential vs. Commercial: Who Should Choose What?(15:07) - Mindset and Strategy for Commercial Real Estate Success(17:07) - Opportunity for Younger Agents in Commercial(18:48) - Outbound and Inbound Lead Generation for Agents(20:32) - Tech, CRMs, and the Rise of AI in Commercial Real Estate(21:12) - Why Most Agents Fail: Poor Marketing and No Strategy(22:35) - Should Agents Specialize in the Asset They Want to Invest In?(26:44) - Managing Property Managers and Preventing Theft(28:42) - Foreclosures Are Not Flooding the Market Yet(29:38) - Joe's Shift to Triple Net Lease Properties(31:13) - Why Triple Net is the Most Passive and Liquid Investment(32:29) - Risks and Rewards of Triple Net Investing(36:26) - Vetting Tenants and Evaluating Market Strength(37:21) - Using Multifamily to Build Up to Triple Net Investing(38:13) - Mistakes from Overleveraging and Unchecked Growth(39:29) - Hidden Costs of Airbnb and Market Saturation Risks(40:48) - Adding Creative Value to Multifamily Properties(41:50) - Cap Rates and Increasing Value with Strategic Improvements(42:16) - Lessons from Joe's First Two Investment Properties(43:24) - Final Advice: Show Up, Listen, Keep Learning(45:20) - Joe's #1 Book Recommendation for Real Estate Agents(46:26) - Where to Follow and Learn More from Joe Killinger(47:27) - Outro: Subscribe and Visit REIAgent.comContact Joe Killingerhttps://www.joekillinger.co/https://youtube.com/@JoeKillinger--For more masterful content like this, visit https://reiagent.com
The How of Business - How to start, run & grow a small business.
How small business owners can overcome fear, embrace Artificial Intelligence literacy, and start using generative AI tools to improve efficiency and competitiveness. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/577-susan-gonzales-ai-literacy/ Artificial intelligence isn't coming - it's already here, and small business owners can't afford to be left behind. In this episode of The How of Business, Henry Lopez speaks with Susan Gonzales, founder and CEO of AI and You, a nonprofit dedicated to making AI literacy accessible for everyday people. Susan explains why fear, skepticism, and lack of awareness are slowing AI adoption (especially among women and minority business owners) and how these barriers can be overcome. She breaks down the difference between predictive and generative AI, offers practical advice on where to start. Susan's five-step framework for crafting effective AI prompts: 1) Help me with… (Be specific) 2) You are a… (Define the role) 3) The output should be… (State the desired format) 4) You should know… (Provide context) 5) Here are some… (Include references or examples) From creating business plans and marketing strategies to streamlining repetitive tasks, Susan shares real-world examples of how AI can save time, reduce costs, and open new opportunities. She also warns about “hallucinations” in AI-generated output and emphasizes the importance of verifying results before relying on them. The conversation covers emerging trends like AI agents (the next generation of chatbots with reasoning capabilities) and how existing business tools, like CRMs, accounting platforms, and Microsoft Copilot, are embedding AI features business owners should explore. Susan's core message is clear: AI literacy is now an essential basic business skill. Owners who start learning and experimenting today will have a significant advantage over those who wait. “The more specific the prompt, the more specific the answer,” Susan advises, encouraging listeners to explore AI tools with curiosity rather than fear. Listen to gain the confidence, knowledge, and practical steps you need to start leveraging AI in your small business today. Susan Gonzales is the founder and CEO of AI and You, a nonprofit dedicated to making artificial intelligence literacy accessible to everyday people and small business owners. A former policy executive at Facebook, Susan has worked at the intersection of technology, policy, and community engagement, and now focuses on educating diverse communities about AI opportunities and challenges. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website https://TheHowOfBusiness.com
In this episode, Matty A. pulls back the curtain on one of the most cutting-edge developments in commercial real estate: AI agents. Discover how he built a custom AI underwriter—nicknamed IRR Hunter—that analyzes deals 24/7, never asks for equity or a raise, and may forever change how investors scale their operations.If you've ever wondered how to integrate AI into your real estate business, this episode delivers the blueprint.Key Topics Covered:What is an AI Agent? How AI agents differ from traditional prompts and why they act like full-time digital employees in your real estate org chart.Real Estate Applications: AI agents can underwrite deals, analyze rent rolls, build financial models, manage investors, automate CRM tasks, and much more.Building Your First Agent: A four-step beginner framework:Choose the roleTrain it with your real estate logicEquip it with the right tools (like CRMs, spreadsheets)Set up feedback loops for growth and optimizationMatty's IRR Hunter AI:A deal-hunting machine that identifies arbitrage opportunitiesPerforms underwriting and provides actionable insightsWorks faster, cheaper, and smarter than a traditional analystThe Future of Real Estate Investing: Why AI isn't a luxury—it's the new leverage. Matty explains how AI will separate tomorrow's winners from those who get left behind.Episode Takeaways:AI agents can replace high-cost roles with minimal upfront time investment.Real estate businesses of the future will thrive on speed, automation, and smart decision-making.You don't need to be a coder to start using AI—just be clear on outcomes and processes.Episode Sponsored By:Discover Financial Millionaire Mindcast Shop: Buy the Rich Life Planner and Get the Wealth-Building Bundle for FREE! Visit: https://shop.millionairemindcast.com/CRE MASTERMIND: Visit myfirst50k.com and submit your application to join!FREE CRE Crash Course: Text “FREE” to 844-447-1555FREE Financial X-Ray: Text "XRAY" to 844-447-1555
In this episode of Ask a Responsive Fundraiser, Sam Staley, Founder and CEO of Event.Gives, joins us to challenge traditional metrics of event success. From the power of personalized thank-you messages to the concept of “dollars in the room,” Sam shares actionable strategies nonprofits can use to grow giving long after the event ends. This episode is packed with real-world insights on how fundraisers can: Rethink event ROI with a lifetime donor lens Use integrated CRMs and event tools for faster, smarter follow-up Create automated drip campaigns that boost attendance and giving Identify and recover missed revenue through post-event data Build lasting donor relationships through continued engagement You can learn more about Event.Gives here.
Emily McAllister joins Jason Cassity and The Broke Agent to discuss new Instagram features, hyper-local post strategies, and the marketers of the week.
On this episode of I Do Wedding Marketing, I'm thrilled to be joined by Ron Sefcik of Ron & Jess Marketing! If you've ever said, “I need more leads” or “I wish I could book more of the ones I already get,” then this is your episode. Ron is a seasoned wedding marketing expert who dives deep into the real difference between a leads problem and a bookings problem—and how to solve both.We talked about everything from tracking your lead sources (yes, even if you've been avoiding spreadsheets like I have
“The best thing we can do as sellers is match the urgency of the person who is reaching out to us.” says Val Riley, VP of Marketing at Unbounce, Insightly, and LeadsRX.In this episode of The Content Cocktail Hour, host Jonathan Gandolf chats with Val about the shift from conversion to connection, both in your tech stack and your go-to-market strategy. With deep experience spanning CRM, landing pages, and attribution tools, Val shares how brands can build more meaningful customer experiences by removing friction between form fill and follow-up. She also unpacks what it looks like to move fast as a challenger brand in the AI era and how being “right-sized” in your CRM approach can actually lead to better results across your funnel.In this episode, you'll learn:Why 25–50% of form fills are wasted and how to fix thatWhat it means to align sales and marketing around a shared funnel viewHow mid-market CRMs can offer enterprise-grade AI without enterprise-grade headachesResources:Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-gandolf/Explore AudiencePlus: https://audienceplus.comConnect with Val on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-riley-marketer/ Explore Unbounce: https://unbounce.com/ Explore Insightly: https://www.insightly.com/ Explore LeadsRX: https://leadsrx.com/Explore Closing Time: https://www.insightly.com/closing-time/ Read the report: https://app.thejuicehq.com/content/TBtyYfywtWN9NQ8T3MCzBbag Timestamps:(00:00) Intro(00:54) Meet Val Riley(04:19) The importance of conversion and connection(09:28) Aligning sales and marketing teams(11:21) Right-sized CRM solutions(14:50) AI in CRM: opportunities for challenger brands(18:55) Unpopular opinions in B2B marketing
In this episode of Affiliate BI, John Wright sits down with Joe Hatch, Head of Product at StatsDrone, to pull back the curtain on the complexities of affiliate marketing infrastructure, automation, and data reliability. From building in-house stats tools to integrating dynamic variables, Joe gives a deeply informed take on what it really takes to run a successful affiliate operation at scale. They kick off by discussing the illusion that building your own stats platform is easy. Joe details the real challenges — from managing over 1,900 affiliate programs across 90+ software types to maintaining reliable data through inconsistent APIs, scraping, and authentication hurdles. He challenges the belief that AI agents alone can solve these problems, pointing out the edge cases and standardization issues that AI still struggles with. The episode explores practical tools and innovations Joe has been building, including WordPress plugins for Pretty Links and Thirsty Affiliates that simplify dynamic variable tracking. Joe explains how proper click ID management enables deeper analytics and real attribution, turning affiliate sites into powerful CRMs — capable of identifying individual users, tracking their behaviour post-click, and even retaining or reactivating them with targeted offers. The conversation also dives into hot-button issues like shaving and data transparency. Joe explains the importance of change detection and communication between affiliates and operators, while emphasizing that not all data changes are nefarious. For tech-savvy affiliates, Joe lays out integration possibilities using tools like Airtable, Looker Studio, Tableau, and the versatile n8n automation platform. They wrap with a discussion on the future of affiliate marketing as it converges with business intelligence — plus a fun mention of Joe's satirical project, the iGaming Bullshit Generator.
HAPPY MONDAY MOTIVATION! Welcome back, Badasses, to another episode of No More Excuses! Today, I've got one big question for you:Is AI helping your business… or hurting it? Or hell, have you even TRIED it yet? Because here's the truth—AI is not coming. It's already here. And whether you like it or not, your competition is probably already using it to streamline their operations, create content faster, automate customer service, or cut costs without cutting corners. So, I'll ask again: Is it helping or hurting your business? Let's back up a bit. AI has been dominating headlines—ChatGPT, automation tools, CRMs that think for you. And yes, it can feel overwhelming, especially if you're already juggling a million things just trying to keep your business moving. I get it. But let me be brutally honest for a second: If you're ignoring AI because you "don't get tech" or "don't have time"— That's an excuse. And you know this show doesn't tolerate that. Let's talk about what AI can do for your business—RIGHT NOW: It can write your social media captions, blogs, or email newsletters in minutes. It can automate customer responses or appointment reminders. It can help you analyze customer data, feedback, and buying trends without hiring a full-time team. It can take the repetitive crap off your plate so you can focus on actually growing your business. Now does that mean you should outsource your entire business brain to a bot? Hell no! But if you're stuck in busywork mode while your competitors are using AI to scale, you're falling behind. So, here's what I want you to ask yourself: Have I even TRIED using AI in my business? Am I curious or closed off to what it can do? Where in my business am I wasting time that a smart tool could streamline? And if your answer is, “I don't know where to start,” guess what? That's not a stop sign. That's a starting point. There are simple tools—many of them free or low-cost—that are built for people like YOU. You don't need to be a tech wizard to use them. Quick Action Challenge: This week, I want you to pick ONE task—just one—that eats up your time. Maybe it's writing a weekly email, answering the same client question over and over, or chasing down appointments. Now, go find an AI tool to help with it. Use ChatGPT. Try an AI scheduler. Explore automation in your email platform. Just TRY something. Because if you're not at least experimenting, you're choosing to stay stuck. And you, my friend, are too damn smart and too damn badass for that. AI isn't here to replace your magic. It's here to amplify it—if you let it. So, stop resisting. Stop making excuses. And go lead your business like the badass you are. I'll see you next week on No More Excuses. Now go take action—your future self is waiting. Cheers! Sandi
In this perceptive episode, Andy Audate, President of AudateMedia, shares strategies for leveraging CRMs to scale your business predictably. If you struggle with disorganized customer tracking or inefficient sales processes, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why a CRM tracks customer journeys to streamline your sales process- How to choose a CRM tailored to your customer's specific journey- What mission-critical data to capture in your CRM for profitThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 3 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizAndy Audate is an international speaker, renowned small business marketing expert, and the founder of Progreda. With a proven track record, he specializes in assisting small businesses in effectively marketing their high-ticket services through webinars that have attracted over 9,500 entrepreneurs. Andy's SaaS has achieved a seven-figure run rate, and his guidance has empowered thousands of small businesses to create marketing campaigns that have collectively generated $20+ million in revenue.Want to learn more about Andy Audate's work at AudateMedia? Try Progreda for Free for 14 Days at https://progreda.com/lory 'Buy No More Average' Book : How to Take Control of Your Mindset, Overcome Fear, Reach Peak Performance and Achieve Your Goals https://a.co/d/2FnrZUz Text ”Progress” to # 702-830-7408 for access to a FREE live webinar hosted by Andy Audate for a full breakdown of his marketing system for online business ownersMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you're a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you're doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
The company behind Xactimate, Verisk, will own AccuLynx.A $2.35B acquisition…And roof claims may change forever.Because now… Verisk controls both the estimating, CRMs, and a lot more. claims.If you think insurance was tough before…Just wait.In this new video with John Senac, we discuss:- What Verisk openly shares in their investor deck- How contractor data could be used for insurance pricing control- What this could mean for roof claims movingThis could be the biggest shift in roofing claims in decades.And it's happening fast.If you want to stay ahead, you need to see what's coming.We talk about stuff like this every day inside the Roofing & Solar Reform Alliance.It's the place where value-aligned leaders share secrets, spot trends early, and grow together: https://www.rsra.org/join/=============FREE TRAINING CENTERhttps://theroofstrategist.com/free-training-centerJOIN THE ROOFING & SOLAR REFORM ALLIANCE (RSRA)https://go.rsra.org/join-podcastGET MY BOOKhttps://a.co/d/7tsW3Lx GET A ROOFING SALES JOBhttps://secure.rsra.org/find-a-job CONTACTEmail: help@roofstrategist.comCall/Text: 303-222-7133FOLLOW ADAM BENSMANhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSVx5TWX-m2dl6yuUVF05Dwhttps://www.facebook.com/adam.bensman/ https://www.facebook.com/RoofStrategist/ https://www.instagram.com/roofstrategist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@roofstrategist https://www.linkedin.com/in/roofstrategist/#roofstrategist #roofsales #d2d #solar #solarsales #roofing #roofer #canvassing #hail #wind #hurricane #sales #roofclaim #rsra #roofingandsolarreformalliance #reformers #adambensman
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Nick Werker discuss:The importance of proper phone handling in law firm intake processesHow customer experience begins with an intentional communication strategyShifting lawyer mindsets around sales and client engagementThe evolving standards of professionalism and wellness in legal practice Key Takeaways:Solo and small law firms often lose clients due to missed calls or lack of call-forwarding plans, which can be easily fixed with tools like rollover call forwarding.Answering services should align intake scripts with law firms' CRM systems and help pre-qualify callers without turning anyone away, allowing for both client conversion and effective referrals.Intake staff should prioritize empathy and rapport over data collection, allowing callers to fully explain their problem before asking for details.Lawyers frequently lose potential clients not due to pricing or competence, but due to a lack of communication and failure to follow up after the initial contact."Don't pressure people, but let them know that you have a solution to their problem and that and why you're the best solution to that problem." — Nick Werker Unlock the secrets of rainmaking success—join Steve Fretzin and four powerhouse legal experts for Be That Lawyer LIVE on August 27; reserve your spot now at fretzin.com/events. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don't miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor!Legalverse Media: https://legalversemedia.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/About Nick Werker: Nick is the founding marketer and current marketing leader at Answering Legal. Since 2014, Nick has been working to help lawyers improve the way they communicate with their clients, strengthen legal intake, organize messages, create workflows for CRMs, and spread awareness on all things happening in the legal community.When he's not podcasting, building custom GPTs, or thinking about ways to spread the Answering Legal message, he is a strong proponent of self-improvement. He also loves helping friends and community members find business success using marketing strategies.Connect with Nick Werker: Website: https://www.answeringlegal.com/Phone: (631) 686-9700Email: nick@answeringlegal.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-werker/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/answering-legal-inc/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/answeringlegal/Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
Dustin Brohm, aka Massive Agent, joins Jason Cassity and The Broke Agent to discuss a new Instagram feature (quizzes), AI for content creation, Forward takeaways, what works on IG today, and the marketer of the week.
Guest: Vaughn English Guest Bio: Vaughn English is a growth-focused sales leader with over 10 years of experience driving revenue across industries including digital marketing, 3D visualization, tourism, and insurance. He has a proven track record of building high-performing outreach strategies, leading cross-functional teams, and closing complex B2B deals. Vaughn specializes in leveraging CRM platforms, marketing automation, and creative campaigns to engage prospects and accelerate the sales cycle. From launching national tourism campaigns to scaling 3D content solutions for enterprise clients, he brings a consultative approach that aligns client goals with actionable solutions. Vaughn thrives at the intersection of strategy, creativity, and execution, consistently turning opportunities into lasting partnerships. Key Points: Background and Path to Sales Started in theater; transitioned to sales due to communication skills and confidence. First job: selling DirecTV inside Costco, a challenging experience that taught resilience. Gradually moved into more prestigious roles, now at Fracture. Role at Fracture Tasked with building the B2B infrastructure from scratch, including identifying the ideal customer profile (ICP), creating case studies, lookbooks, product menus, and developing marketing and outreach processes. Finding the Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) Initially targeted hospitality, but realized sales cycles are very long. Exploring design firms and higher education as more promising ICPs. Higher ed (e.g., Boston College) often needs ongoing art installations, recognition plaques, etc., making them strong repeat buyers. CRM and Sales Technology Strong proponent of using CRMs despite challenges. Believes CRMs are essential for organizing contacts and outreach, launching automated email campaigns, and tracking sales activity. Sales Outreach Strategy Focuses heavily on cold email campaigns. Personalized and well-researched. Uses intent data (from sources like ZoomInfo, Bombora) to identify companies showing buying signals. Example: campaign to Ben & Jerry's using their "Flavor Graveyard" as a custom subject line. Warm leads via email before calling; cautious about cold calling personal cell phones (though interviewer disagrees). Team Dynamics and Management Style Small team (essentially 2 people); the other focuses on account management. Balances trust with light micromanagement, uses CRM visibility (e.g., BCCs, task tracking) to monitor activity, steps in when new leads aren't followed up quickly enough. Believes in hiring people he can trust to reduce the need for hovering. Challenges and Learnings Struggles with ensuring consistent follow-up on new leads while handling large ongoing projects. Building out processes and infrastructure in real-time while scaling the B2B arm. Emphasizes that real ICP identification comes through direct conversations and testing. Guest Links: vaughn.english@fractureme.com Connect on LinkedIn About Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Download your free gift, The Salesology® Vault. The vault is packed full of free gifts from sales leaders, sales experts, marketing gurus, and revenue generation experts. Download your free gift, 81 Tools to Grow Your Sales & Your Business Faster, More Easily & More Profitably. Save hours of work tracking down the right prospecting and sales resources and/or digital tools that every business owner and salesperson needs. If you are a business owner or sales manager with an underperforming sales team, let's talk. Click here to schedule a time. Please subscribe to Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to https://podcast.gosalesology.com/ and connect on LinkedIn and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our website at https://gosalesology.com/.
What do founders get wrong when trying to build a startup? Jeff Gibson, CTO and co-founder at Kintsugi, joins the show to break down how he approaches building around real business problems—not flashy features. Drawing from pre-IPO roles at Atlassian and his journey scaling Kintsugi, Jeff shares why understanding cash flow, revenue mechanics, and operational bottlenecks is critical for building something that lasts. Whether you're a startup founder or tech leader, this one's full of sharp insights on building with purpose.Key Takeaways • Solving “boring” problems can be wildly valuable—if you understand where the money flows • Great businesses start with a clear grasp of what companies actually value, not just what users say they want • Pre-IPO cleanup reveals hidden complexity in compliance, revenue recognition, and internal tooling • Pivoting without a strong North Star leads to wasted cycles; solve for the cause, not just symptoms • Not every successful business needs to be venture scale—but it does need to be viable and focusedTimestamped Highlights 01:17 — What Kintsugi actually does, and why indirect tax is a massive hidden challenge 03:49 — The “pre-IPO cleanup” playbook and how it shaped Jeff's understanding of business systems 06:52 — Why chasing product-market fit is risky if you don't deeply understand the business problem 09:44 — Talking to 100 customers before writing a single line of code 12:57 — The opportunity in low-innovation, high-value spaces (think CRMs, billing, compliance) 16:44 — Niche wins: why a $10M business in a focused segment can be more valuable than chasing unicorn statusQuote of the Episode “You don't want to find a boring problem that's commoditized. You want a boring problem that's valuable.”Resources Mentioned • Kintsugi: https://www.kintsugi.comCall to Action If you found Jeff's insights helpful, follow The Tech Trek for more conversations with builders and leaders shaping the future of tech. Share this episode with a founder friend, and don't forget to subscribe wherever you listen. Want to keep the conversation going? Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn.
In this solo episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady flips the script on what it really means to be a modern real estate agent in 2025. Forget the old-school mindset of chasing transactions. Ben argues that your real job now? Data analyst. The most valuable currency in today's market isn't listings — it's information. And most agents are missing the mark entirely.Ben dives into why names, phone numbers, emails, and detailed segmentation should be your primary KPI. He breaks down practical, no-fluff ways to gather more local data — from tweaking your open house strategy to cold prospecting with a fresh lens. This episode isn't about fancy CRMs or complicated systems. It's about rethinking the fundamentals: How much opportunity do you actually have in your database?Whether you're a new agent or a seasoned top producer, this is the reset button you didn't know you needed. Ben shows how expanding your data inputs expands your income — and why volume is the byproduct of consistency, not luck.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Why Real Estate Agents Are Actually Data Analysts[00:01:06] – Your Database Is the New Commodity[00:02:16] – The Metric That Matters More Than GCI[00:03:03] – Open House Tactics That Actually Work[00:04:30] – Stop Giving Out Brochures (And Do This Instead)[00:05:48] – Reframing Cold Prospecting as Data Refinement[00:08:40] – The Real Reason You're Not Doing More Deals
Relationship-Driven Growth with Jon Ferrara of NimbleOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Jon Ferrara, CEO and Founder of Nimble, about the deeper value of authentic relationship management in business. As the creator of both GoldMine and Nimble, Jon has pioneered the CRM space for decades—and continues to champion people-first strategies that go beyond sales. He shares how his passions, personal journey, and entrepreneurial experience all reinforce a simple truth: building strong relationships is the foundation for long-term success.Why Human Connection Still Wins in a Tech-Driven WorldJon Ferrara believes business is personal. From inviting clients into his kitchen to weaving shared passions into conversation, Jon makes the case that authenticity builds trust—and trust drives growth. He explains how Nimble was designed as a CRM for the entire company, not just sales, pulling in contact data from email, LinkedIn, and other platforms to give teams a full picture of their relationships.Throughout the conversation, Jon explores why traditional CRMs often fail due to low adoption and poor data, and how Nimble overcomes these hurdles with automation and smart enrichment. Whether you're in sales, marketing, customer success, or partnerships, Nimble helps you stay top of mind and build meaningful, lasting connections. Jon also shares actionable tips—from leading with service to leveraging podcasting as a relationship tool—that any entrepreneur can use to grow their influence and network.Ultimately, Jon reminds us that success in business (and life) comes from being present, offering value, and consistently showing up for the people around you. Technology can enhance relationships—but it's the human touch that makes them matter.About Jon FerraraJon Ferrara is the CEO and Founder of Nimble. A pioneer in the CRM space, Jon previously founded GoldMine and now leads Nimble with a mission to simplify relationship management across the entire organization. He's passionate about helping professionals build authentic connections that drive both business growth and personal fulfillment.About NimbleNimble is a relationship-focused CRM designed for small businesses and teams. It unifies contact data from email, social platforms, and business apps—making it easy to track, manage, and nurture key relationships across sales, marketing, partnerships, and customer success.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Nimble WebsiteJon Ferrara on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Why relationships—not just transactions—drive long-term successThe evolution of CRM from GoldMine to NimbleHow Nimble integrates with daily workflows to reduce frictionThe common pitfalls of CRM adoption and how to avoid themActionable tips for building meaningful business connectionsConclusionJon Ferrara's relationship-first mindset is a timely reminder in a world of automation and AI: genuine human connection is still your strongest competitive advantage. With the right tools—and the right intention—your network can become your greatest asset. If you're ready to lead with empathy, service, and strategy, Nimble offers a powerful way to grow your relationships and your business.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful
In this thought-provoking episode, Ryan tackles one of the most overlooked transitions in the home service world: moving from the field to the office. After receiving a powerful listener question—"What should I do now that I'm finally working on my business instead of in it?"—Ryan unpacks the journey that many business owners face but few talk about.Drawing from his own path, including his infamous 10-hour first install and his management background, Ryan walks through what it takes to zoom out and lead your business strategically. He dives into setting a vision, building systems, investing in branding, and creating culture that extends beyond your company walls. You'll hear why leadership development is non-negotiable if you want to scale and what “CEO Day” looks like when done right.This episode doesn't shy away from hard truths—like how ego keeps you feeling “needed” but stuck, or how taking out the trash may be costing your business more than you realize. Ryan introduces the “bucket value” analogy to help business owners prioritize their time and delegate low-value tasks. He also shares real-life advice from HVAC legend Matthew Holtkamp, including how to ask, “Can someone else do this?” before taking action.Ryan breaks down why working ON the business means installing systems, not just garage doors, and how to avoid falling back into old habits by setting triggers and KPIs that expose where you're slipping. He also covers the guilt many business owners feel when stepping back—and why it's time to stop apologizing for being a leader.The episode ends with a clear call to invest in your personal and business growth through coaching, masterminds, CRMs, automations, and smarter communication tools. Ryan even teases a new all-in-one messaging platform that could reshape how contractors manage customer interaction across channels.If you're ready to stop wearing every hat and start leading with clarity, this is the episode that'll nudge you forward. Whether you're doing $200K or $20M, the challenges are the same—and the answers start here.Fort Lauderdale Intensive – 2 Seats Left! Join Ryan and the team for a 3-day business growth retreat: Luxury stay, private chef, whiteboard strategy sessions, and life-changing clarity. → garagedooru.com/intensiveFind Ryan at:https://garagedooru.comhttps://aaronoverheaddoors.comhttps://markinuity.com/Check out our sponsors!Sommer USA - http://sommer-usa.comSurewinder - https://surewinder.comStealth Hardware - https://quietmydoor.com/
Tune into our weekly LIVE Mastermind Q+A Podcast for expert advice, peer collaboration, and actionable insights on success in the Probate, Divorce, Late Mortgage/Pre-Foreclosure and Aged Expired niches! In today's episode of the All The Leads Mastermind podcast the panel returned to an open forum, fielding real-world questions from agents and investors building momentum in the probate, divorce, and late mortgage space. A new agent shared her first listing win and asked how to prep leads efficiently and build credibility without a website. The team stressed that over-researching wastes time encouraging her to start calling, focus on out-of-state PRs, and lead with value. Aline, Tim, and Alyssa highlighted ATL's tools like ready-made websites, CRMs, and marketing materials that build trust fast. Cam shared how consistent attorney outreach and offering notary and mediation services has grown his business. Bill recapped a wild short sale deal, while Bruce explained how to vary voicemail strategies to trigger callbacks. The episode wrapped with advice on mailing cadence, long-term follow-up, and why persistence often leads to wins months down the road.
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David Cancel is a seasoned entrepreneur, author, and technology leader best known as the founder and Executive Chairman of Drift, the leading platform for conversational marketing and sales. With a career spanning five successful startups, including Performable, Compete, and Ghostery, David has built a reputation for creating high-growth products and scaling world-class teams. David shares how his upbringing in an entrepreneurial household influenced his career and how Drift was born out of a desire to modernize outdated sales and marketing tools that no longer fit today's buyer-centric landscape. He explains that traditional lead capture methods, like forms and email nurture sequences, are obsolete in a world where customers expect real-time, 24/7 access to solutions. David emphasizes that true innovation isn't just about software — it requires a complete cultural and data model shift, similar to how the social graph disrupted CRMs. David advocates for embracing mentorship and collective knowledge rather than learning every lesson through struggle, as the most important insights often come from others, and the earlier we internalize them, the better. Website: Salesloft LinkedIn: David Cancel Instagram: dcancel Previous Episode: iam330-serial-entrepreneur-creates-hypergrowth-products-and-product-teams Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!
In this episode of the M&A Guide Podcast, host Brian Franco speaks with Greg Lehr, co-founder and CEO of Mammoth Results, about the critical role of CRMs in business growth, the importance of fixing fundamentals for valuation, common mistakes in scaling businesses, and strategies for de-risking transactions in M&A. They emphasize the need for predictable revenue and effective cash flow management to build buyer confidence and ensure successful exits.
Where to find Corey Edmonds:My Service Robot: https://myservicerobot.comYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@coreyedmondsJoin Jonathon Henderson from Pressure Washing Marketing Pros as he sits down with Corey Edmonds—former owner of a $2.3 million exterior cleaning company and founder of My Service Robot—to talk automation, delegation, and the systems that separate chaos from scale.In this high-impact episode, Corey shares how he went from losing money in a $700K business at 21 to building and selling a multi-million dollar pressure washing company in Washington State. Now running one of the most respected automation firms for home service businesses, Corey gives you the blueprint to systemize everything—from lead follow-up and crew reminders to automated safety training and performance-based pay.If you're still on the truck or stuck chasing leads manually, this is your wake-up call. Corey breaks down what most pressure washers get wrong with CRMs like Jobber, Housecall Pro, and Markate—and how to fix it fast using the tools inside Go High Level and My Service Robot.Key topics covered in this episode include:✅ How Corey scaled from $0 to $2.3M with systems and automations✅ The most important automation every pressure washer needs✅ How to automate your hiring funnel from application to onboarding✅ Why automating training protects you (and saves thousands)✅ How to implement performance pay and drive technician accountability✅ The difference between an FSM and a true CRM✅ Why “I need more leads” is the wrong mindset✅ How to capture and convert every lead (without chasing them)✅ Tips for setting up follow-ups, review requests, and reactivation campaigns✅ What big companies do differently—and how you can replicate itCorey also shares how he built an entire training platform inside Go High Level, reduced admin hours across the board, and why automation is the most valuable employee you'll ever hire.
Discover the essential "2025 Market Trends Every Educator Must Know!" to unlock your full entrepreneurial potential. In this episode of the Seven Figure Educator Podcast, Dr. Erica Jordan Thomas dives into how educators can navigate a trust-driven economy, leverage key strategies to build thriving businesses, and turn their expertise into a seven-figure enterprise. Whether you're new to business or looking to scale, this video offers actionable insights to bet on yourself, embrace mindset shifts, and invest in growth. **KEY POINTS:** - **Navigating the 2025 Marketplace:** Learn why attention is the new currency and how relationship-driven strategies will set you apart in a "trust recession." - **Mindset Shifts for Success:** Stop playing small—now is the time to take your business seriously. "If you're committed to being a secret, you're committed to losing." - **Building Community and Trust:** Discover how the "7-11-4 Rule" can deepen connections through long-form content and diverse interactions. - **Invest in Growth:** Dr. Erica emphasizes the importance of maintaining a personal development budget and leveraging tools like CRMs to manage client relationships effectively. - **Unwavering Belief in Opportunity:** According to Forbes, entrepreneurship will drive the economy in 2025. This is your unique window to create, lead, and succeed. Dr. Erica shares powerful strategies, including growing your business with five-figure offers and scaling with micro-offers under $2,000. As she puts it, "Attention is the new currency, and relationships are the backbone of a thriving business." Unlock your potential as an education consultant, build financial freedom, and join a like-minded community of resilient entrepreneurs. If this inspired you, hit **SUBSCRIBE** for more transformational content, **LIKE** this video, and share it with a friend. Let's grow together—because your brilliance deserves to be seen! #socialmediamarketing #digitalmarketing #classroommanagementstrategies #entrepreneurship #differentiatedinstruction RESOURCES: [MEET] Are you an educator looking to start or grow your education consulting business? Click here to book a call with our team and learn more about our programs! [FREE] Don't miss my free 5-Day 7-Figure Business School and learn the blueprint to grow a seven-figure education consulting business. I'm going to teach you the psychology of a millionaire, how to identify million-dollar problems, package and price your offers, master my seven-figure sales process, and identify leads to pitch immediately. Click HERE to sign up now! [FREE] Want to know the inside scoop on market changes to anticipate and the business strategies you need to make in 2025 to make this year your biggest year in business? Download my 2025 Education Consulting Market Trends & Business Success Strategies. Click HERE to grab it now! [LIVE EVENT] Join us at Seven Figure Educator Live, a three-day event in Atlanta, Georgia, where you'll experience unparalleled support, community, and fellowship with your fellow educators. Click HERE to grab your ticket now and let's make magic happen together in Atlanta! [FB COMMUNITY] Don't miss out on your chance to connect with other education consultants in our free public Facebook group! Click HERE and find your 7-Figure community today. Dr. Erica Jordan-Thomas IG | @e_jordanthomas LinkedIn | @erica-jordan-thomas-ed-l-d-86314764 Facebook | @EJTConsultingLLC Enjoyed this episode? Like, rate, and subscribe to the 7-Figure Educator podcast!
In this episode of Her Business Elevated, I chat with Jackie Klein—a former educator turned systems consultant and HoneyBook expert. Jackie shares her inspiring journey from teaching to tech, how COVID opened a new chapter for her, and how she leveraged her background to become a sought-after CRM consultant for women solopreneurs. We unpack what a CRM actually is, why HoneyBook has become her tool of choice, and how it can transform the back end of your business into a streamlined, automated machine. Jackie explains how she bridges tech with teaching to make HoneyBook easier to understand—and how her HoneyBook Success Network membership offers business owners the coaching, community, and tech support they need to confidently scale.Inside this episode:Jackie's pivot from the classroom to consulting after early retirement How a $1 HoneyBook trial changed her business trajectoryThe biggest myths about CRMs and automations—and how to reframe themExamples of automations every solopreneur should considerWhy you're not automating the relationship—just the systemsHow to map your client journey before you start building workflows The real-time support Jackie offers inside her HoneyBook Success NetworkMentioned in this episode:Take Jackie's 2-minute systems quiz: hellojackieklein.com/quiz Learn more about Jackie's membership and services: hellojackieklein.com
In this episode, Lindsay is joined by marketing expert Jackson Pinkoski to break down the must-have tool for cleaning business owners: CRMs (Customer Relationship Management systems). They talk about why CRMs aren't just for big companies and how they help you track leads, boost sales, and avoid sticky-note disasters. Whether you're running a small residential service or managing a few big commercial accounts, a CRM can save time, protect relationships, and grow your business. Jackson shares real-world examples and tips on getting started without overwhelm. They even explain how to outsource the setup if tech isn't your thing. If you've ever lost a lead or forgotten a follow-up, this is your wake-up call! Love the idea, but find it overwhelming? Want to learn the next steps like, what to actually say on the call? Jump on a call with one of our coaches and learn strategies on how to grow your cleaning company and start loving your job every day! Book here
Chris Brisson runs a texting platform from the website salesmsg.com he is the founder of Salesmsg, and discusses SMS marketing and business communication strategies.Summary of the PodcastKey TakeawaysSalesmsg provides a platform for businesses to send and receive SMS messages, integrating with CRMs for automated, two-way text conversationsSMS is emerging as a critical channel for business communication due to high open rates and engagement compared to email or phone callsEthical use of SMS marketing requires explicit opt-ins; unsolicited texting is illegal and damages customer relationshipsSalesmsg offers AI-powered text conversations that can qualify leads and drive conversions while maintaining a natural, human-like toneSMS as a Business Communication ChannelSMS is becoming increasingly important as email deliverability declines and fewer people answer phone callsText messaging offers a "clean" channel with high open and engagement ratesBusinesses can use SMS for lead generation, engagement, qualification, revenue driving, feedback collection, and referralsSalesmsg Platform FeaturesIntegrates with major CRMs like HubSpot, Salesforce, and PipedriveAllows businesses to send/receive texts from computers, not personal phonesOffers automation capabilities for immediate response to web form submissionsProvides AI agents that can conduct human-like conversations using brand voiceCompliance and Best PracticesExplicit opt-ins are required; cannot text old lists without new permissionBusinesses must get approved to send text messages, ensuring legitimacyBest to use SMS as a channel to move customers to the next stage in the funnel, not for hard sellingKeep messages simple, personal, and natural - avoid long, marketing-heavy textsUse Cases and ROIEvent speakers using SMS for lead capture (e.g., "Text 'slides' to this number")Appointment reminders and delivery notificationsSales follow-ups and meeting schedulingCustomer support and engagementPricing and Volume Considerations$49 per 1000 credits (1 credit = 1 text message sent)Costs can add up with conversational use, but ROI often justifies expenseStart with smaller plans and scale up as neededNext StepsExplore Salesmsg integration possibilities with existing CRM systemsReview current opt-in processes to ensure SMS complianceConsider testing SMS for upcoming events or campaigns to gauge effectivenessEvaluate potential ROI of SMS marketing compared to other channels The Next 100 Days Podcast Co-HostsGraham ArrowsmithGraham founded Finely Fettled ten years ago to help business owners and marketers market to affluent and high-net-worth customers. Graham founder of MicroYES, a Partner for MeclabsAI, where he introduces AI Agents that sit on websites, to increase engagement, dwell time, leads and conversions.Kevin ApplebyKevin specialises in finance transformation and implementing business change. He's the COO of
Nick Loise is the Founder and Chief Sales Officer of Sales Performance Team, a company dedicated to helping small and midsize businesses enhance their sales leadership, processes, and systems. With a background as a salesperson, sales leader, entrepreneur, marketing executive, and President's Club winner, he brings a wealth of experience to his clients. Nick has authored and co-authored several books on sales and marketing, including Moving the Sales Needle in Your Business and The Ultimate Guide to Managing Your Sales Team. He is also a sought-after speaker who has shared the stage with industry leaders such as Dan Kennedy, Russell Brunson, and Barbara Corcoran. In this episode… Many businesses struggle with low sales conversion rates despite having a steady stream of leads. Sales teams often lack structured processes, fail to properly follow up, and lose opportunities due to ineffective recruiting and inadequate onboarding. How can companies create scalable sales systems, hire the right people, and consistently close deals? Nick Loise, an expert in building high-performing sales teams and developing sales systems, provides actionable strategies to overcome these challenges. He emphasizes the importance of building proven, repeatable sales processes rather than relying on individual salesperson styles. He highlights key tools like CRMs, follow-up automation, and AI-driven pipeline analysis to streamline operations. Nick also stresses that active listening is a critical, often overlooked skill in sales, and he recommends using flowcharts instead of rigid scripts to guide sales calls. He shares proven methods for recruiting top sales talent using direct response techniques and detailed screening processes to avoid costly hiring mistakes. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Nick Loise, Founder of Sales Performance Team, about building effective sales teams and systems. Nick shares insights on sales process design, sales team recruiting, and using technology to improve pipeline management. He also discusses active listening, overcoming constraints in the sales cycle, and the differences between selling and closing.
Welcome back to America's #1 Daily Podcast, featuring America's #1 Real Estate Coaches and Top EXP Realty Sponsors in the World, Tim and Julie Harris. Ready to become an EXP Realty Agent and join Tim and Julie Harris? Visit: https://whylibertas.com/harris or text Tim directly at 512-758-0206. ******************* 2025's Real Estate Rollercoaster: Dodge the Career-Killers with THIS Mastermind!
Send us a textEver wondered why some shed companies break through revenue plateaus while others stay stuck? In this revealing episode, the Shed Geek Marketing team pulls back the curtain on what truly works for growing shed businesses, especially those in the crucial $7-20 million revenue range.We dive deep into why this particular revenue bracket represents the "sweet spot" for marketing partnerships - these companies have mastered their operations but need specialized marketing scaffolding to reach the next level. The conversation candidly addresses one of the industry's most contentious issues: data ownership. "You own everything when you work with us," we emphasize, contrasting this approach with unfortunate industry practices where companies hold client data hostage after relationships end.The team explores how effective marketing extends far beyond websites and social media, requiring seamless integration with your entire business ecosystem - from CRMs and POS systems to 3D configurators and sales processes. For manufacturers, we challenge traditional thinking about expansion: "Your digital storefront - how many lots do you have? Because you could put the same money into your digital storefront getting it started... is it any more expensive than a new lot? Certainly not."Looking toward the future, we examine how societal shifts toward tiny homes, ADUs, and sustainable living create expanding opportunities across the industry. "The next 50 years of the shed industry is not a zero-sum game," we note, highlighting how forward-thinking businesses should position themselves to capture disproportionate growth.Ready to transform how you think about marketing your shed business? This episode provides the strategic framework and honest perspective you've been searching for. Connect with us at info@shedgeek.com to continue the conversation about how marketing can drive your next phase of growth.For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.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 ProCALLuxGuardShed Sales SummitDigital Shed BuilderCalculate Business Services
In this episode of the I Do Wedding Marketing Podcast, host Nina interviews Terrica Skaggs, the iconic wedding industry educator, business coach, and founder of Cocktails & Details® and Wedding Pro University. Known as the hype woman for wedding business success, Terrica shares tactical and empowering advice for modern wedding professionals who want to build bold brands, increase profitability, and market authentically without burnout.You'll hear:✨ Terrica's inspiring journey from pre-law to powerhouse planner
In this episode, host Pete Moore sits down with Mary Laudati, a seasoned sales and marketing leader with deep roots in the HALO (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoor) space. From her days leading the sales group at Sports Club LA to her current role as a consultant working with top clubs across the U.S. and internationally, Mary shares her insights on building effective sales strategies, leveraging cutting-edge software like Salesforce, and creating a powerful culture of member engagement and retention. She provides boots-on-the-ground, immediately actionable tips on using data, recording sales calls, and mystery shopping to pinpoint where clubs are leaving revenue on the table—plus, the importance of strong onboarding and personal connections to keep members coming back. Mary also discusses the latest trends in CRM technology, club operations, and the shift toward shared memberships and referral models. Whether you're a club owner, sales team leader, or just passionate about the business of the HALO space, Mary's advice on finding—and keeping—members is pure gold. On early member retention, she states, "Those three months are crucial . . . for those clubs that don't have salespeople, not only do you want to embrace the incoming (they've got to follow up and make a lot of phone calls), but they also have to check on the new members and look at their attendance to make sure that they're coming in." Key themes discussed Importance of sales strategies and processes in health clubs. Customizable CRM/software solutions for sales and retention. The critical role of training and investing in your employees. KPIs, net growth, revenue, and retention. Mystery shopping and call recording for sales team improvement. Enhancing member engagement, onboarding, and relationship-building. Shared membership/referral programs to boost membership and loyalty. A few key takeaways: 1. Sales Process Needs Structure and Ongoing Evaluation: Mary emphasized that many clubs claim to have a strong sales team, but more often than not lack strategies, scripts, or KPIs. She underlined the importance of having sequential, process-driven systems and regular evaluation—often through recording, analyzing calls, and “mystery shopping” the current experience. 2. CRMs and Custom Software Are Game-Changers: A major part of the episode centers around the critical need for effective, customizable CRMs. Mary championed Salesforce for its adaptability, noting her experience implementing it at Millennium Partners. She highlighted recent successes helping clubs (like Powerhouse Gyms in Novi, MI) leverage technology to understand their numbers, coach their teams, and boost revenue. 3. Training and Investment in People Drives Revenue: Laudati strongly advocates investing in employee training alongside technology. She's seen clients who paired software adoption with robust training, and realized up to 25% growth year-over-year. She's a believer in hands-on onboarding, coaching, and ensuring team members are held accountable—not just to sales, but to ongoing member engagement. 4. Retention is as Critical as Acquisition: Both Mary and Pete stressed the importance of looking beyond just new member acquisition to also address attrition. Laudati recommends clubs track net growth (sales minus cancels), invest in the early months of a member's journey, proactively reach out to disengaged members, and create meaningful connections (a la “Cheers,” where everyone knows your name!) 5. Shared Memberships and Ongoing Engagement are Winning Strategies: Highlighting clients like Bay Clubs, Laudati also talked about the explosion of shared or referral-based memberships and how they can create instant community and value. She noted the value of actively integrating new members into programs or group activities (think personal training, group ex, or even pickleball) during the crucial first three months to help maximize retention. Resources: Mary Laudati: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-laudati-89206232 Mary Laudati Sales Consulting: https://www.marylaudati.com HALO Talks 2 Minute Financial Drills (Videos): https://bit.ly/2minutedrills Prospect Wizard: https://www.theprospectwizard.com Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com
On this episode of Unlimited Capital, Richard McGirr delivers a solo masterclass on the number one mistake that kills more deals than bad markets or bad sponsors—the “Build Trap.” Drawing from his experience raising over $60 million and coaching dozens of fund managers, Richard explains how over-focusing on CRMs, funnels, and "perfect" systems often masks procrastination and stalls momentum. He breaks down the 95/5 rule of capital raising, emphasizing that most results come from just a few key actions: sending emails, calling investors, and following up. If you've been stuck in prep mode, this is your call to take action. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at https://www.stamps.com/cre. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best Ever Community The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate investors like you inside. It's free to join, but you must apply and meet the criteria. Connect with top operators, LPs, GPs, and more, get real insights, and be part of a curated network built to help you grow. Apply now at www.bestevercommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices