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Are you stuck in the middle-charging too much for volume but too little for premium customers? You're not alone.In this solo episode of Branding with Becks, I break down the dangerous middle-the pricing zone that keeps many businesses stuck, confused, and underperforming.You'll learn:Why pricing too high can scare away more customersWhy pricing too low can undervalue your brandHow to strategically position your products or services for premium buyers and volume salesSimple frameworks to avoid the middle and create clarity in your pricingIf you've ever wondered why your business isn't scaling despite hard work, this episode will give you actionable insights to make confident pricing decisions and grow sustainably.Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode helped you clarify your pricing strategy. binxties.coBecsea.comKeywordsbusiness strategy, pricing, branding, marketing, middle market, luxury branding, value proposition, customer perceptionChapters:00:00 Introduction to the Dangerous Middle03:27 Understanding Pricing Strategies06:38 The Risks of the Middle Pricing09:09 Strategies for Moving Out of the Middle
What happens when inflation pressure, tariff uncertainty, supply chain disruption, and AI platform strategy all hit wholesale distribution at the same time?In this episode of Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution, Kevin Brown and Tom Burton unpack the forces shaping distributors and manufacturers right now, from core inflation and the Strait of Hormuz to tariff refunds, B2B customer experience, data center demand, and AI adoption. This episode gives revenue leaders in distribution a practical lens on how to manage volatility, avoid disconnected technology silos, and build a smarter path toward CRM-ERP integration, customer intelligence, and future-proofing distribution.What You'll Learn:Why core inflation, oil prices, and energy volatility continue to affect freight, plastics, fertilizer, and downstream manufacturing costsHow tariff refunds, FedEx reimbursements, Section 301 tariffs, and trade negotiations could impact importers, distributors, contractors, and end customersWhy supply chain uncertainty remains elevated—and why distributors need better inventory visibility tools, demand planning, and collaborative forecastingHow the B2B buying experience is becoming more like B2C, especially for contractors and professional buyers using Home Depot, Lowe's, Amazon Business, and traditional distributorsWhy AI adoption in wholesale distribution needs to move beyond point solutions and toward connected data systems, Smart CRM, AI-powered customer intelligence, and true platform strategyEpisode Highlights:03:20 – LeadSmart's Enterprise Growth Platform and why connected data matters for distributors04:40 – Core inflation, energy prices, and the delayed cost impact across freight, plastics, and manufacturing15:10 – Strait of Hormuz volatility and why open shipping lanes do not always mean stable supply chains20:10 – FedEx tariff refunds, customer reimbursement complexity, and why downstream recovery is difficult31:50 – Supply chain uncertainty, port volatility, and whether distributors are better prepared than they were during COVID46:40 – The blurring line between B2B and B2C customer experience in wholesale distribution58:40 – Data centers, AI infrastructure, and why distributors in electrical, HVAC, plumbing, industrial, and construction markets should pay attention1:12:40 – AI adoption, order processing automation, platform strategy, and the risk of creating new data silosTools, Frameworks, and Strategies Mentioned:LeadSmart TechnologiesLeadSmart Channel Cloud™Enterprise Growth PlatformData360 HubSmart CRMSales Co-PilotAI Co-Pilot for SalesCRM-ERP IntegrationCRM Data Enrichment with AIHidden Revenue DetectionSales Automation Without Losing the Human TouchConsultative CommerceHybrid Selling ModelsInventory Visibility ToolsCollaborative Planning & ForecastingFuture-Proofing DistributionB2B Customer Experience StrategyAI Platform StrategyData Center InfrastructureCORE: CapEx Optimization Reliability and Execution by Lone Star Electric SupplyClosing Insight:The biggest technology risk for distributors is not simply falling behind on AI—it is adopting disconnected tools that recreate the same data silos they were meant to solve.For wholesale distributors and manufacturers, the next stage of growth will depend on connected systems, CRM-ERP integration, customer intelligence, supply chain visibility, and AI tools that solve real business problems. Subscribe to Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution for weekly conversations on the economy, supply chain, technology, and the future of distribution.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.
In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born continues the Set It On Fire: The Art of Innovation series by diving into Chapter 7: Failure: Innovation's Training Ground. Joined by Moriah Hidden, Natalie explores why failure is not the opposite of innovation, but a necessary part of the process.Together, they unpack the difference between failures and mistakes, the role of psychological safety in innovative cultures, how leaders can create environments where experimentation thrives, and why learning faster is often more valuable than being perfect. This conversation offers practical insights for leaders looking to build resilient teams that embrace risk, learn quickly, and continue moving innovation forward.[00:00 – 04:12] Why Failure Is Essential to InnovationWhy innovation naturally involves risk and uncertaintyHow failure provides valuable data, insights, and learningShifting the focus from perfection to learning velocityWhy organizations must stop treating failure as a personal flaw[04:13 – 08:59] Psychological Safety & Learning from SetbacksThe connection between psychological safety and innovationHow fear-based cultures prevent honest conversationsSigns your team may be afraid to speak up or take initiativeWhy leaders must create environments where mistakes can be discussed openly[09:00 – 15:08] Failures vs. Mistakes: Understanding the DifferenceDefining the difference between a failure and a mistakeWhy leaders should respond differently to eachThe role of accountability, coaching, and learningHow SOPs and clear expectations reduce preventable mistakes[15:09 – 17:21] Fail Fast, Fail Cheap, Fail OftenWhat “fail fast, fail cheap, fail often” really meansCreating guardrails that encourage experimentationUsing scorecards, decision frameworks, and spending limitsAvoiding costly innovation projects that lack validation[17:22 – 20:51] Staying Connected to CustomersWhy organizations build products customers don't actually wantThe importance of validating ideas early and oftenListening for customer signals and feedbackRemoving internal bias during the innovation process[20:52 – 26:20] Building Resilient Teams That Keep InnovatingWhy leaders should model vulnerability and share their own failuresCelebrating learning—not just successful outcomesConducting lessons-learned reviews and after-action discussionsCreating a culture that rewards thoughtful risk-taking and growthKey Quotes“Failure is only a waste if we don't learn from it.” – Natalie Born“If a leader treats a failure as a mistake, innovation will disappear in the organization.” – Natalie Born“Failure is not the opposite of innovation; it's part of the process that makes innovation possible.” – Natalie BornResources & LinksInnovation Meets Leadership Website: iml.howSet It On Fire Frameworks & Resources: setitonfire.coNatalie Born LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieborn/If this episode encouraged you, share it with a leader, entrepreneur, or innovator who wants to build a culture where learning, experimentation, and resilience drive long-term success.Be sure to subscribe to Innovation Meets Leadership for more conversations on leadership, innovation, culture, and growth.
What do a biochemist, a Chinese mansion house, Heathrow Airport, 250 burger restaurants, a pub turnaround, student accommodation, retirement living, and more than a few bottles of Mao Tai have in common?This week's guest... Duncan Garrood.And trust me...You're going to want to hear this one.Duncan's career began in a laboratory as a scientist with a PhD in Biochemistry.It then took him through Unilever, a decade living in China, Heathrow Airport, the Middle East, Punch Taverns, Bill's Restaurants, family entertainment, student accommodation, and now Riverstone Living.Most people spend a career trying to follow a plan.Duncan spent his, basically just saying yes.In this episode we chat about:Why a scientist decided business looked more interestingBeing told on a Wednesday that he was moving to China on SundayLiving next door to 13 Chinese families in a former colonial mansionPutting Walls ice cream on the Great Wall of ChinaThe business lessons hidden inside industrial quantities of Mao TaiWhat airports can teach us about hospitalityWhy great service is often revealed when things go wrongGrowing a business from $150 million to $1 billionRunning out of cows whilst scaling Shake ShackTransforming Punch Taverns during one of the biggest shifts in pub legislationReimagining Bill's RestaurantsUsing people, not capital, to drive growth in leisureTreating students like customersWhy later living might be one of the most exciting sectors in hospitality todayAlong the way we explore leadership, customer experience, entrepreneurship, curiosity, reinvention, and the power of saying yes to opportunities before you're entirely sure how they'll work out.One of my favourite stories came from Duncan's time in China.After fifteen dinners with a potential business partner, countless toasts, and enough Mao Tai to test the resilience of a small nation, the gentleman put his arm around him and declared:You are my little brother."Moments later, he passed out.Business was secured.As leadership lessons go, it's certainly more memorable than most MBA programmes.There are also some absolute gems throughout the conversation:
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode What does it take to grow from a single auto repair shop to six locations in less than a decade? Host Carm Capriotto sits down with AJ DeBuono to discuss his journey from serving as a U.S. Marine in Iraq and Afghanistan to becoming a successful multi-shop operator. AJ shares the lessons learned through rapid growth, the acquisition strategy that has fueled his expansion, and how military discipline, financial discipline, and a commitment to people have shaped his leadership approach. Rather than buying struggling businesses and attempting turnarounds, AJ focuses on acquiring profitable shops with untapped potential. What You'll Learn How AJ leveraged SBA veteran loan programs to purchase and expand his first auto repair businessWhy he prefers acquiring profitable shops instead of distressed operationsThe key performance indicators he targets to quickly improve profitabilityHow military leadership principles influence his management style and business decisionsThe importance of creating career advancement opportunities through expansionLessons learned from growing too quickly and navigating financial stressHow AJ approaches shop transitions to minimize disruption for employees and customersWhy maintaining strong personal relationships with team members remains a priority despite operating multiple locations Growth is not simply about adding locations. It's about creating opportunities for your people, building systems that scale, and maintaining the discipline to make smart decisions when the pressure is highest. AJ DeBuono's story demonstrates that successful expansion comes from acquiring the right businesses, investing in your team, and staying focused on long-term value rather than short-term gains. AJ DeBuono, Diehl Auto Repair, Chicago, IL Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: Visit the Website:https://remarkableresults.biz/Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriottoFollow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/Follow on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/Follow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club:https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmastersJoin Our Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976Join our Insider List:https://remarkableresults.biz/insiderAll books mentioned on our podcasts:https://remarkableresults.biz/booksOur Classroom page for personal or team learning:https://remarkableresults.biz/classroomSpecial episode collections:https://remarkableresults.biz/collectionsBuy Me a Coffee:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcastwith Carm Capriotto:Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion.https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z:From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/The Weekly Blitz: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/Speak Up! Effective Communication: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills with Craig O'Neill.https://craigoneill.captivate.fm
This episode of The UK Flooring Podcast welcomes Amanda “Panda” Ford, founder of The Financial Planning Club, for a practical look at how understanding different personalities can improve the way you sell, communicate and manage people.Amanda introduces Insights Discovery, a psychometric profiling tool that uses four colour energies to explain how people prefer to communicate, receive information and make decisions.Some customers want every detail about the flooring, preparation and installation process. Others simply want the price, the timescale and a clear answer. Treating both customers in exactly the same way can create friction, lose trust and potentially cost you the job.Amanda explains how flooring professionals can begin spotting different communication styles from the questions customers ask, the language they use and even the way they enter a showroom. The goal is not to label people or completely change your personality. It is to recognise when your usual approach may need adjusting.The conversation also explores the value of surrounding yourself with other business owners. Amanda shares an outsider's perspective on the flooring industry and explains why the community inside the Cockerill & Co Alliance is so valuable, regardless of whether someone is working alone from a van or running a seven-figure company.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow Insights Discovery uses four colour energies to explain communication preferencesWhy some customers demand detail while others only want the price and timescaleHow to identify different personality styles during surveys, quotations and showroom conversationsWhy listening and asking better questions can improve your sales processHow to adapt quotations and information packs for different types of customersWhy your natural communication style may connect with some people but alienate othersHow better self-awareness can improve customer service, leadership and teamworkWhy business owners need a supportive community outside their own companyMemorable Quote“Once you know about yourself, you then start to understand other people.”Speaker InformationAmanda “Panda” Ford is the founder of The Financial Planning Club and a qualified Insights Discovery practitioner. She helps individuals and teams understand how they communicate, respond to situations and work with people who think differently.Where to Find The UK Flooring PodcastListen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Follow The UK Flooring Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube for new episodes, clips and flooring industry conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
(00:00:00) Intro (00:00:39) Tim shares the origin of Tour Detour (00:01:44) How the idea turned into a viral series (00:05:58) What Tim wanted to achieve from making the show (00:10:52) Fixed ops as the backbone of dealership profitability (00:13:15) The danger of over-quoting and losing customer trust (00:19:14) What Tim's Strategy Looks Like on a Daily Basis (00:25:35) Rethinking service appointments vs. walk-ins (00:31:10) Setting Expectations with Clients (00:33:08) How AI is shaping the future of service communication (00:37:07) Biggest Missed Opportunities in the Service Department (00:44:14) What's next for Tour Detour (00:46:31) Outro Success doesn't always come from following the traditional playbook—sometimes it's built by rethinking the rules, taking risks, and executing with intention.In this episode of What the Fixed Ops?!, we welcome Tim Pohanka, VP and COO of Pohanka Nissan Hyundai and the creative force behind Tour Detour, the show.Tim brings a unique blend of dealership leadership, innovation, and storytelling—and in this conversation, he breaks down why fixed operations remains one of the most powerful (yet misunderstood) drivers of long-term dealership success.From launching a viral automotive series to redefining how service departments operate, Tim shares how thinking differently—and executing with discipline—can unlock massive growth in both business and brand.This conversation goes far beyond cars and content. It's about leadership, customer experience, process, and why dealerships that embrace transparency, education, and adaptability will win in today's evolving market.This episode will challenge the way you think about fixed ops, service retention, dealership culture, and what it really takes to stand out in a crowded industry.We talk about:The origin and rapid growth of Tour DetourWhy storytelling is transforming dealership marketingHow fixed ops drives consistent, scalable profitabilityThe biggest mistakes service departments make todayWhy over-quoting repairs kills customer trust and revenueHow proper pricing strategy increases repair order acceptanceThe importance of educating—not selling—your customersWhy video MPI and transparency are game changersHow AI can improve communication and service conversionsThe truth about appointments vs. walk-in service modelsWhat it takes to build a multi-generational dealership legacyTim also shares insights on leadership, innovation, and how stepping outside your comfort zone—whether in business or content creation—can create unexpected opportunities.His message is clear: stop treating fixed ops as an afterthought, focus on delivering real value to customers, and build processes that drive both trust and profitability.This is a direct, insightful, and forward-thinking conversation about growth, innovation, and the future of fixed operations in automotive.BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HEREwww.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts:www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host Russell B. Hill and Co-Host Charity Dunning as they discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in What the Fixed Ops?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations #dealershipmarketing
The Advisory Board | Expert Franchising Advice for Franchise Leaders
On this episode of The Franchise Advisory Board Podcast, we dive into the hidden inefficiencies in home service marketing, lead generation, and what it really takes to maximize ROI in today's competitive landscape.A big thank you to our episode sponsor, ClientTether, for providing leading franchise software and supporting conversations that help franchisors grow smarter and faster.This episode features a dynamic discussion with Daniel Dixon, CEO of SendJim, whose journey from running his own home service business to building a data-driven marketing platform brings a practical, real-world perspective to the table. With over a decade of experience and insights drawn from hundreds of thousands of customer data points, Daniel shares how modern marketing is evolving beyond traditional demographics into behavioral and predictive targeting.We explore how most home service brands are unknowingly wasting a significant portion of their marketing budget—often up to 95%—by focusing only on in-market buyers. While only a small percentage of customers are actively searching at any given time, the real opportunity lies in identifying and nurturing “off-market” leads who are far more likely to convert over time.A key theme? It's not just about generating more leads—it's about doing more with the ones you already have. From unresponsive inquiries to lost quotes and past customers, this episode highlights how better follow-up, automation, and long-term nurturing can unlock massive hidden revenue.We also unpack:Why the “3% in-market” rule should change how you think about growthHow off-market leads can be 4–5x more likely to buyThe importance of speed-to-lead—and why being first matters more than being bestHow poor follow-up systems are silently killing your conversionsWhy consistency in marketing beats one-time campaignsHow reviews and customer experience impact visibility in an AI-driven worldThe massive opportunity in re-engaging old leads and past customersWhy most businesses don't have a lead problem—they have a system problemAt its core, this episode is a reminder that growth doesn't come from spending more—it comes from spending smarter, following up better, and building systems that work long after the first touchpoint.If you're in franchising or home services, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.Thanks for listening to the Franchise Advisory Board Podcast, where we explore the ideas, strategies, and people shaping the future of franchising.If you found today's episode valuable, please subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow franchise leader. To learn more, connect with us on LinkedIn and Youtube.Until next time, stay curious, stay strategic, and keep building stronger franchise systems!
What's on your mind? Let CX Passport know...Mohamed Isa has been the CFO. He's built businesses. He's written 20 books. And yet his most powerful lesson is simple… stop chasing numbers and start understanding customers.In this episode of CX Passport, Mohamed breaks down what changes when finance leaders truly see customer experience from the inside… and why organizations lose revenue when they treat CX as someone else's job.What you'll learn in this episode:Why CFOs must think beyond numbers to drive real growthHow a single sentence sold more product… and changed internal strategyThe hidden cost of under-communicating with customersWhy bad service spreads faster than good serviceHow service culture determines whether CX succeeds or failsCHAPTERS00:00 CFO perspective on customer experience03:00 The “50 showers” lesson in customer language05:00 Why organizations ignore obvious CX truths06:30 Travel, expectations, and human experience09:00 How CX drives revenue at a country level11:00 The bad bank experience that became a book15:30 First Class Lounge19:00 The danger of under-communicating23:00 Everest Base Camp and accountability in CX26:30 Why service culture is everything28:00 Bahrain's CX leadership and government experienceGuest LinksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohdisaBook: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40660063-chai-karakBahrain CX example: https://bahrain.bh/Listen: https://www.cxpassport.comWatch: https://www.youtube.com/@cxpassportNewsletter: https://cxpassport.kit.com/signupI'm Rick Denton and I believe the best meals are served outside and require a passport.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and should not be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney, financial advisor, or other professional regarding your specific situation. The opinions expressed by guests are solely theirs and do not necessarily represent the views or positions of the host(s).
Why are people watching the content but not buying anything?Many coaches and creators successfully grow audiences on YouTube, social media, and email lists. However, attention alone does not always translate into customers. Businesses often produce content consistently yet struggle to convert viewers into buyers.Zac Hansen, founder of Productized Coach, explains how micro offers can solve this problem by turning attention into paying customers. Instead of relying on long sales cycles or high-ticket offers first, Zac focuses on low-friction offers that allow audiences to become buyers quickly. Once someone becomes a buyer, the relationship and the value of the ecosystem can continue to grow.Zac shares how micro offers, simple sales pages, and clear messaging can help coaches convert attention into revenue without relying on complex funnels or long sales processes. By focusing on creating buyers first, businesses can build momentum that leads to larger programs and long-term growth.What You'll Learn:Why growing an audience does not automatically create buyersHow micro offers turn attention into paying customersWhy low friction offers help convert viewers fasterHow simple sales pages outperform complex funnelsWhy testing offers before building products reduces riskHow micro offer buyers can move into higher ticket programsConnect with Zac Hansen:Connect with Zac on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachansen/Learn more about Zac's Productized Coach programs and resources: https://productizedcoach.com/Watch Zac's videos and content on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@thezachansenResources:Connect with IanDownload a Tackle Box!Supercharge your marketing and grow your business with video case stories today!Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
There's a commonly held belief in manufacturing: big ideas need big money, fast growth, and outside control to survive. But that playbook doesn't work for every business or every industry.Andrew Johnson, co-founder of HeavyTech and CEO of ShelfAware, joins the show from Everywhere Beer Co. in Anaheim, California, to talk through how he and his partners built HeavyTech, a hybrid and electric big machinery manufacturer, on their own terms. He shares the long road behind developing technology for hybrid and electric heavy machinery, and why, when it came time to scale, they made a deliberate decision to crowdfund and not follow the traditional VC path.Along the way, we also get into why diversification within a single industry creates leverage most business owners miss, what it means to be fearless in business, and the struggles of connecting with other entrepreneurs at the same stage of growth.If you've ever questioned whether the “standard” approach to funding actually fits your business, this conversation will make you rethink the rules.In this episode, find out:Why timing is the most important factor in business successHow crowdfunding gives you more control over your business and direct access to future customersWhy diversifying within an industry is one of the smartest entrepreneurial moves you can makeThe importance of connecting with other entrepreneurs in the same position as youHow HeavyTech invented its hybrid and electric machines for construction, farm and ranchWhat it means to be fearless in businessWhere Andrew sees the future of U.S. manufacturing goingEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:“I think the inclination today is that you need to go raise a bunch of money with private equity venture capital. I believe that's wrong. Crowdfunding allowed us to raise a bunch of money from individuals. Normal people who believed in the future vision of our company and would eventually become our customers.”“I think that's the beauty of diversification. Each business is in the same industrial space. The products are different, but they complement each other. Sometimes I go into a meeting trying to sell ShelfAware, and I end up selling O-rings or end up talking about HeavyTech and leave with a new investor.”“Timing is everything in business. You have to be at the right place at the right time. You can have a great idea, but if the market is not ready, it won't work.”Links & mentions:HeavyTech, a manufacturing company designing and building hybrid and electric machinery for the construction and agriculture industries. ShelfAware, a manufacturing intelligence company providing real-time production visibility and workflow insights to improve efficiency on the factory floor. Everywhere Beer Co, an independent craft brewery based in Cleaveland, producing small-batch beers.Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.Mentioned in this episode:Industrial Marketing Summit 2026The Industrial Marketing Summit is the go-to gathering for marketers working in the manufacturing,...
In this episode of the Independent Dealer Podcast, hosts Jeff Watson and Luke Godwin break down essential strategies for maximizing tax season sales at your dealership. Tax season is your biggest opportunity of the year—but only if you execute properly.What You'll Learn:How to mine your database for approved-but-not-delivered customersWhy increasing down payments during tax season creates better dealsCollection strategies to maximize cash flow when customers have moneySmart inventory management to avoid running out of stockThe importance of maintaining processes even when you're slammed6 Tax Season Tips:Mine your database for previous approvals and conditionsTighten up and increase down payment requirementsAggressively collect on your portfolio when customers have cashPlan inventory ahead to avoid running out of carsManage cash flow carefully during high-volume sales periodsDon't let volume break your processes and best practicesThis isn't just about selling more cars during tax season—it's about selling BETTER cars to BETTER customers while improving your cash position.Support the businesses that support the podcast:Buckeye Risk Services - Reinsurance, tax planning, and long-term wealth strategies built specifically for independent dealers.https://theindependentdealer.com/buckeyeBlytzPay - Buy Here Pay Here payment processing with fast funding, text-to-pay, and real dealer-focused support.https://theindependentdealer.com/blytzpayIturan GPS - GPS and payment technology for BHPH and retail dealerships focused on asset protection, recovery tools, and customer management.https://theindependentdealer.com/ituranFollow & Connect: Website: www.theindependentdealer.comEmail: info@independentdealer.comFacebook Group: @independentautogroupLuke Godwin: @lukegodwinJeff Watson: /sendtojeffwLike, subscribe, and share this episode with another dealer who needs to maximize their tax season results.
Automotive supply chains are no longer being reshaped by crisis. They are being reshaped by clarity, and clarity is forcing hard choices.In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Champions Podcast, Jan Griffiths and co-host Tom Roberts are joined by Paul Eichenberg, Chief Strategist and author of The Road Ahead: Five Key Predictions for the Global Automotive Industry in 2026, for a blunt, reality-check conversation about what lies ahead for suppliers.The industry has moved past the chaos of shortages and disruptions, but that does not mean conditions are improving. Flat volumes. Thin launch schedules. Policy volatility. Long-standing assumptions that once protected supplier business models no longer apply.Paul makes the case that 2026 is not about recovery. It is about reckoning. Growth will not lift all boats. Outgrowth will be selective. Capital allocation, portfolio focus, and strategic intent will determine who wins and who fades.This conversation challenges automotive leaders to confront the most dangerous assumption still in play: that the industry is operating under the same rules it always has. The leaders who succeed in 2026 will be decisive, intentional, and willing to make hard bets instead of spreading resources thin.Themes Discussed in This EpisodeWhy flat volumes expose weak supplier strategiesThe end of “a rising tide lifts all boats” thinkingWhat outgrowth really means in a 0–1% marketCapital allocation as the ultimate strategy leverWhy the next decade is the hybrid decadePortfolio focus vs being all things to all customersWhy clarity, not comfort, defines 2026 leadershipFeatured GuestName: Paul EichenbergTitle: Chief Strategist, Automotive IndustryAbout: Paul is a seasoned automotive strategist and industry advisor with decades of experience supporting OEMs and suppliers through major market transitions. He is the author of The Road Ahead: Five Key Predictions for the Global Automotive Industry in 2026, where he outlines the structural shifts redefining growth, competition, and portfolio strategy across the global automotive value chain.Connect: LinkedInAbout Your HostsJan GriffithsJan is the host and producer of the Auto Supply Chain Champions Podcast and The Automotive Leaders Podcast. A former automotive manufacturing and supply chain executive, Jan is recognized as a Champion for Culture Change in the automotive industry. She brings direct, grounded conversations to leaders navigating execution, disruption, and transformation across the global automotive ecosystem.Tom Roberts (Co-host)
In this episode of Small Business School, Staci is diving into a major shift she sees coming for entrepreneurs as we head into 2026. With AI making information instantly accessible, what really matters now isn't what you know — it's how you serve, connect, and give people their time back. This episode is all about rethinking value, letting go of burnout culture, and building businesses that feel good for both you and your customers.Key topics covered:Why information is no longer the differentiator and what actually isHow AI is changing buying behavior and raising the bar for service providersThe growing importance of solving the “time gap” for your customersWhy connection, customer experience, and thought leadership can't be replacedWhat it means to build a business that supports your health and your clients as we move into 2026As we move into 2026, the businesses that will thrive aren't the ones chasing more information or louder marketing, but the ones that lead with connection, thoughtful service, and real human impact. Staci's Links:Instagram. Website.
The Live for Yourself Revolution Podcast: Living toward greater health, wealth, and happiness
In this episode we sit down with Lindsay Nahmiache, a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, operator, and investor who brings a private-equity mindset to brand building and growth.Lindsay is the CEO of Veriphy Skincare Inc., a high-performance, clean skincare company built around a “less is more” philosophy — proving that you don't need 20 products when the right five actually work. She's also the Founder and CEO of Jive PR + Digital, an award-winning agency she's led for more than 15 years, helping consumer brands and immersive experiences scale through culture, community, and disciplined strategy.In addition, Lindsay serves on the board of Songtradr, where she previously acted as Chief Marketing Officer, guiding global growth at the intersection of music, technology, and licensing.In this conversation, Lindsay and Ben explore:Why mindset is the root of all growth (or stagnation)How discernment is becoming a critical leadership skill in the age of AIBuilding brands that create obsessed communities, not just customersWhy “getting lost” — in cities and in thought — fuels clarity, creativity, and better decision-makingHow personal practices translate directly into professional performanceThis episode is a candid look at leadership, self-trust, and building businesses that last — without playing small.Follow LindsayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaynamiache/CompaniesVeriphy Skincare: https://veriphyskincare.comJive PR + Digital: https://jiveprdigital.comSongtradr: https://www.songtradr.com
Big Tech spent $560B on AI and made $35B back—no profits, just GPUs and vibes.We break down why NVIDIA is propping up the market, why AI agents don't work, and why the AI boom looks increasingly brittle under the hood.In this episode, we dissect the AI trade using hard data:$560B in capex from the Magnificent 7$35B in AI revenueNo sustainable profits—except for NVIDIAWe cover:Why NVIDIA is the single point of failure for US equitiesHow OpenAI and Anthropic extract value from their own customersWhy “agents” are marketing fictionAnd why AI startups scale by burning cash, not building moatsThis isn't contrarianism.It's what the balance sheets are saying—quietly.
Exploding Kittens began as a jerry-rigged version of Russian Roulette — a deck of cards hastily modified with a Sharpie. But what happened next is one of the most improbable success stories in the creator economy: a $10,000 Kickstarter goal that ballooned into nearly $9 million, a community that rewrote the rules of crowdfunding, and a company that has now sold over 60 million card and board games.Co-founder Elan Lee shares the story behind Exploding Kittens — from dismantling his brother's toys as a kid, to helping design Halo, to walking away from Microsoft…twice. He reveals how burnout, curiosity, and an obsession with interactive storytelling set the stage for one of the most successful game launches of all time.This is a story about the genius behind good marketing, and how creative storytelling can build a cult-like audience — without spending millions.If you've ever wondered how a strange idea becomes a global phenomenon — this is that story.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: How burnout can be a creative turning pointHow a Sharpie and a deck of cards can unlock breakthrough ideasThe storytelling strategy that powered one of Kickstarter's biggest launchesHow to treat your fans like collaborators, not just customersWhy marketing should feel like playUnit economics to die for: make it for $2, sell it for $20How to power through the threat of a one-hit-wonderTIMESTAMPS:00:08:30 — The physics teacher who changed Elan's life00:10:35 — How Elan touched up the floating door scene in Titanic00:13:03 — “You're the worst program manager I've ever seen” — and the pivot to game design00:15:33 — Meeting Spielberg, riffing on the movie AI, and inventing a new kind of storytelling00:21:42 — Promoting Halo 2 with payphones 00:31:35 — The Hawaii getaway that sparked Exploding Kittens00:42:12 — The Kickstarter launch: most backers on record00:48:42 — Suddenly a real company — 700,000 decks and a manufacturing crisis00:53:45 — Marketing genius: a kitty-cat vending machine that dispensed burritos and more01:00:58 — New games that bombed — the one-hit-wonder dread01:07:04 — Throw Throw Burrito, and the road to stability01:19:05 — Elan's 4-year-old daughter helps design new games01:30:31 — Small Business SpotlightHey—want to be a guest on HIBT?If you're building a business, why not get advice from some of the greatest entrepreneurs on Earth?Every Thursday on the HIBT Advice Line, a previous HIBT guest helps new entrepreneurs work through the challenges they're facing right now. Advice that's smart, actionable, and absolutely free.Just call 1-800-433-1298, leave a message, and you may soon get guidance from someone who started where you did, and went on to build something massive.So—give us a call.We can't wait to hear what you're working on.This episode was produced by Sam Paulson with music composed by Ramtin Arablouei. It was edited by Neva Grant with research help from Noor Gill. Our engineers were Maggie Luthar and Kwesi Lee.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Send us a textIn this episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, host Matt Volke sits down with Alex Rigaud, Vice President of Incubation Solutions, fresh from Microsoft Ignite in San Francisco. Together they unpack the biggest announcements from Ignite—including Microsoft's new Agent 365 platform—and explore how organizations can move from experimentation to truly embedding AI across their business.In this episode, you'll hear Matt and Alex discuss:Why Agent 365 is a game changer for identity, security, and compliance in the age of AI agentsHow organizations can get ahead of the challenge of shadow AI before it overwhelms their networksWhy starting small—like building a Lego set or boiling pasta—is the smartest way to approach AI adoptionHow workshops at Ignite revealed that data governance and structure remain the biggest hurdles to effective AI useWhat it means to be a Frontier Firm and how Hitachi Solutions is “walking the walk” by embedding AI into its own workflows before bringing solutions to customersWhy proof‑of‑concepts aren't enough, and how moving to execution with agents and co‑pilots creates real business valueWhether you're curious about Microsoft's latest innovations or looking for practical insights on how to responsibly scale AI, this conversation offers a candid look at where enterprises stand today—and what it will take to reach true enterprise‑level AI.global.hitachi-solutions.com
Send us a textIn honor of Remembrance Day, Maggie shares the story of her maternal grandfather—a WWII veteran who fought in the Polish clandestine army and spent his retirement as a servant leader in local government. His legacy inspires her to ask: What are you fighting for in your business?In this week's Maggie's Moment, discover why knowing what you stand for is the foundation of your brand and the key to creating loyal customers who come back again and again.In This Episode:The difference between satisfied customers and loyal customersWhy emotional connection is your competitive advantageHow to create an experience that builds brand loyaltyYour challenge: Get clear on what you're fighting for as the new year approachesConnect with Maggie:Website: https://stairwaytoleadership.comEmail: maggie@stairwaytoleadership.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maggie.perotin.s2l/LinkedIn: https://www.youtube.com/@maggie.perotin.s2l
Simon spent 10 years at Shopify scaling databases to millions of requests per second. Then he discovered vector databases were so expensive that companies couldn't launch AI features. So he solved it. When Cursor emailed about their crushing costs, Simon flew to San Francisco unannounced. They migrated their entire workload within a week, cutting their bill by 95%. Then came Notion. Justin pulled 24-hour coding marathons during their POC, fixing 300 milliseconds of latency in three hours. They signed on July 25th—the same day Simon's daughter was born. Now TurboPuffer powers Cursor, Notion, and Linear while staying profitable with just 17 people. Simon shares why he turned down easy Series A money and his framework of exactly 6 legitimate reasons to ever raise capital.Why You Should Listen:The power of making something 10-100x cheaperWhy you need to be willing to fly to early customers (how that landed Cursor)The 6 reasons to raise money (and why you often shouldn't)How working 24-hour sprints during POCs converted enterprise customersWhy staying profitable with 17 people beats raising $30M you don't needKeywords:startup podcast, startup podcast for founders, TurboPuffer, Simon Eskildsen, vector database, Cursor, Notion, bootstrapping, database startup, AI infrastructure00:00:00 Intro00:07:52 Finding the problem00:12:25 Building alone00:22:27 Going viral on X00:26:18 Closing Cursor00:40:17 Closing Notion00:45:26 Why he didn't raise $30M when everyone expected him toSend me a message to let me know what you think!
This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereHow does a 65-year-old automotive supplier reinvent itself for the future? That's the question Jeff Edwards, Chairman and CEO of Cooper Standard, answers in this episode. With 22,000 employees across 20 countries, Cooper Standard is navigating one of the fastest periods of change in its history; not by clinging to the past, but by transforming how it leads, operates, and builds culture.Jeff explains that the company's strength begins with its people. Of the ~22,000 employees, 18,000 work in plants every day. They are the heartbeat of the business, and their mindset defines how the company performs. Culture once lived within HR, but today, that's no longer the case. And at Cooper Standard, every leader owns it. The values and purpose that guide the business aren't just words in a handbook; they shape decisions, behavior, and priorities across the organization. Jeff reinforces them in quarterly meetings with employees worldwide, making sure new hires understand how the company operates and what it stands for.Jeff explains how Cooper Standard continues to invest in better tools and infrastructure to support faster, more informed decisions — and sees AI as a future opportunity to help teams work smarter.However, Jeff points out that no system works without the right mindset. Change only happens when people are willing to adopt new ways of working together.Jeff also describes how Cooper Standard restructured its organization two years ago into three business units: Fluids, Sealing, and Industrial Specialty. Each has its own president who is responsible for performance. The new setup flattened decision-making and pushed authority closer to the work.Instead of questioning the change, employees embraced it. They wanted to understand how it would improve them, not why it was happening. That response, Jeff says, is the product of a healthy culture built on trust and shared purpose.The conversation closes where every great company story should — with its people. At Cooper Standard, leadership isn't a title or a process; it's the daily act of listening, learning, and helping others grow. Decisions are made through conversation, not command. Ideas come from every corner of the company, shaped by the experience of those who build, design, and lead on the floor each day. That shared approach to leadership is what keeps Cooper Standard moving; steady, united, and ready for whatever the next chapter demands.Themes discussed in this episode:The transformation of Cooper Standard from a legacy automotive supplier into a future-focused global manufacturerThe link between company culture and faster decision-making in today's competitive automotive industryHow Cooper Standard is strengthening its digital infrastructure to improve decision-making speedThe structural transformation that created three focused business units and improved Cooper Standard's responsiveness to customersWhy collaboration and teamwork between leaders and teams matter more than hierarchy in a modern organizationThe importance of maintaining zero-incident safety standards as a reflection of company culture and care for employeesThe connection between trust, open communication, and long-term success in a global automotive supply chainFeatured guest: Jeff EdwardsWhat he does: Jeff Edwards, Chairman and CEO...
Ever feel like selling is awkward, pushy, or just not you? For so many women entrepreneurs, sales feels like the hardest part of business—but it doesn't have to.In this episode, I'm joined by Andee Hart—entrepreneur, sales strategist, and host of She Sells Differently. She shares the most common sales mistakes women make (and how to avoid them) so you can sell with integrity, confidence, and even joy.Here's what we cover:Why mindset always comes before skill set in salesHow to align selling with your values (and ditch the scripts!)The power of curiosity over assumptions when talking to customersWhy not everyone is your customer—and why that's good newsAndee's wisdom will show you how sales has everything to do with time as a business owner…and why the ROTI is worth it!
Are you spending hours every week creating social media content with little to show for it? You're not alone. The average business owner wastes over 3 hours weekly on social media that doesn't generate leads or sales.In this game-changing episode, I sit down with Katie Brinkley, founder of Next Step Social and author of "The Social Shift," who reveals her proven 4-post strategy that cut her content creation time from hours to just 40 minutes per week - while dramatically increasing her results.Katie's journey from sports reporter for the Denver Broncos to successful agency owner gives her a unique perspective on building community and fan loyalty that translates perfectly to social media marketing. You'll discover how to stop posting random content and start creating strategic posts that guide your audience through a customer journey.What You'll Learn:The 4-post strategy that transforms social media from time-waster to lead generatorHow to create "problem aware" content that hooks your ideal customersWhy community-building beats going viral every single timeThe secret to showing up authentically without looking "polished"How to leverage short-form video even if you hate being on cameraWhy most businesses fail at social media (and how to avoid their mistakes)Whether you're a corporate marketer, entrepreneur, or small business owner, this episode will completely shift how you approach social media strategy.Connect with Katie Brinkley:Website: https://katiebrinkley.comBook: The Social ShiftAgency: Next Step SocialStop wasting time on social media that doesn't work. Start implementing Katie's proven system today.Learn More: Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreadsamazon Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinamazon Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/ Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/books/ Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com
In this episode of The Marketing Factor, Austin Dandridge interviews Curry Hagerty, the marketing mastermind behind HART Jewelry's explosive growth. Discover how this contemporary jewelry brand scales without heavy discounting and dominates Black Friday with innovative strategies.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Black Friday pre-sale strategy for existing customersWhy creative testing beats optimization for Meta adsBuilding a marketing team with EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System)Klaviyo automation for retail stores and trunk showsAttribution tracking with Triple Whale vs Meta reportingAI tools for e-commerce growth and customer discoveryRunning 25-30 new ad creatives monthly on MetaWhitelisting campaigns using real customers vs mega-influencers Omnichannel customer feedback loops from retail to onlineGeographic email segmentation for pop-up eventsBrowse abandonment flows without heavy discountingKlaviyo for email/SMS marketingTriple Whale for attribution trackingMeta advertising optimizationShopify Plus AI featuresDaydream.io for AI-powered shopping discoveryPerfect for e-commerce founders, marketing managers, and jewelry brands looking to scale profitably without racing to the bottom on pricing.
AI-powered agtech infrastructure is growing climate-friendly crops while boosting farmer profitability—backed by horticultural expertise and data science.
"Send me a text"This episode explains:How higher AOV creates competitive moats by allowing you to outbid competitors for the best advertising inventory and customersWhy higher AOV customers typically have higher lifetime value due to increased commitmentHow higher AOV improves cash flow for faster scalingThe concept that CAC is an investment, not just a cost, and the return matters more than the absolute amountReal examples of how this strategy leads to market dominationAfter working with dozens of dietary supplement brands I've uncovered the three critical funnels needed for success. Click here to discover the 3 funnels that can help your health supplement business succeed.If you're interested in working with me one-on-one to improve your supplement business. You can learn more at https://creativethirst.com If you're interested in working with me one-on-one to improve your supplement business. You can learn more at my website https://creativethirst.comGetting people to your sales page or funnel is how you grow a direct-to-consumer supplement company. But how do you get them there?The quickest way to do that is through paid advertising.Buying buyers with ad dollars to scale is how all the supplement businesses do it.Now you can discover the strategies and tactics that work in supplement advertising.For just $7.Click here to grab your copy of the Health Supplement Ad Swipe Guide.
What if the key to stronger marketing isn't more automation—but more human connection?In this episode of Time to Thrive, we sit down with Casey Cheshire—Marine veteran, marketing automation expert, and host of over 500 podcast interviews. As the founder of Ringmaster Conversational Marketing and author of Marketing Automation Unleashed, Casey helps brands ditch disconnected marketing tactics and replace them with authentic, one-on-one conversations—starting with podcasting.In this fast-paced and funny conversation, Casey shares:The #1 marketing mistake that slowly kills your growthA simple test to see if you're truly connected to your customersWhy podcasting is a secret weapon for B2B marketingHow to use a podcast to connect with your dream clientsThe truth about “vanity metrics” and influencer mythsWays small businesses can start ugly—and still winThe layers of ROI that come from podcasting (even if no one listens at first!)Whether you're looking to build trust, strengthen your brand, or finally kill the fluff in your marketing, Casey brings the clarity—and the laughs.
Episode 200 marks a major milestone—not just for the podcast, but for an entire movement that's reshaping how investors think about capital, impact, and stewardship.In this celebration episode, Faith Driven Investor founders Henry Kaestner and Luke Roush take us back to the very beginning—from their first meeting at Joe's Diner in Durham (famous for hot dogs with mustard, chili, or just hot dog) to building Sovereign's Capital and eventually launching a global movement that now spans nearly 100 countries.The Origin Story Behind the Movement:How a matchmaker pastor named J.D. Grear connected two investors who would change everythingThe "Eastern Block Bodega" problem: too little product on the shelf and no line of customersWhy turning away 99 out of 100 entrepreneurs led to a "heartbreaking" realizationThe Holy Spirit moment that shifted everything from scarcity to abundance thinkingFrom Fund to Movement:The transition from Sovereign's Capital to Faith Driven Entrepreneur to Faith Driven InvestorWhy they decided to expose their own LPs to competing fund managersThe infamous John Porter story from Rwanda and what it taught them about being "tight-gripped"How a gathering at a French bistro with 25-30 leaders sparked something biggerThe Philosophy That Changed Everything: Henry and Luke dive deep into the shift from traditional "biblically responsible investing" (focused on what to avoid) to "faith-driven investing" (focused on what to support). This isn't just about screening out "sin stocks"—it's about actively seeking investments that promote human flourishing and build God's kingdom.Global Vision and What's Next:Why Africa represents the most exciting investment opportunity of our generationThe math that doesn't add up: $100+ trillion in managed assets globally, but only a couple hundred billion in explicitly faith-aligned productsWhy 60% of Americans identify as Christian but the investment numbers don't reflect itThe "top of the second inning" reality: we're still incredibly early in this movementKey Insights for Investors:The power of being known for what you're FOR rather than what you're againstWhy "one size fits one" when it comes to faith-driven investing approachesThe importance of seeking Godly counsel, prayer, and Scripture in investment decisionsHow spiritual integration looks different across asset classes (even oil and gas)
Join host Matt Jones as he sits down with Josh Coplin, co-founder of Eden, a startup focused on revolutionizing the HVAC industry with innovative tools like the Eden Instant Quote. In this episode, they delve into the evolving dynamics of sales processes, especially in the trades industry, and discuss how implementing on-site quoting can streamline operations and boost close rates. Josh shares insights on the significant changes in consumer behavior, particularly pre and post-COVID, and highlights the importance of adapting to a culture seeking instant gratification and greater control over purchasing processes. Check the full episode on this podcast: https://youtu.be/_cc5189USiwTimestamp:00:00 "Streamlining CRM in Trade Biz06:19 "Importance of Persistent Follow-Up07:32 Maximize Follow-Up for Sales Success11:48 Instant On-Site Quoting Boosts Conversions13:37 Improve, Don't Settle20:24 CRM's Impact on Construction Businesses23:47 Transforming Knowledge into Scalable Systems25:39 Embracing and Adopting Technology30:03 "Team Collaboration Enhances Customer SuccessThings you'll Learn in this Video:How on-demand/on-site pricing can increase your close rateWhy modern consumers expect instant, transparent quotesThe importance of streamlining your sales process for better resultsKey benefits of qualifying leads before site visitsHow online tools and automation save time and boost conversionsTips for leveraging content and video to build trust and educate customersWhy sharing prices up front helps eliminate poor-fit leadsSimple ways to create a smoother, more effective sales experienceWhether you're in HVAC or another trade, this conversation is packed with relevant strategies for optimizing your sales process by providing transparency, leveraging technology, and respecting your customer's time. Tune in to discover how your business can benefit from these modern sales techniques and elevate your conversion rates.Alternative Titles: How On-Demand Pricing Boosts Your Sales Conversion RatesStreamline Sales with Real-Time Quotes for Higher Closing RatesThe Power of Instant Pricing in Closing More DealsModernizing Your Sales Process with On-Demand Quoting TechniquesFrom Lead to Sale: The Impact of Fast Quoting in the Trades Enjoyed the podcast? Take your trade business to the next level by incorporating AI! Don't get left behind—explore Tradie Hub at tradiehub.net. Discover game-changing AI solutions designed to boost efficiency and growth for trade businesses worldwide. Check it out today!
build your profitable product business with mel robbins thelotco business podcast
Send us a textLet's get one thing straight—your branding is not just about a cute logo or a pretty Instagram grid. If your product isn't flying off the shelves (real or virtual), it's time to look at what your brand is really saying.In this juicy episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on why a misaligned brand identity could be the thing standing between you and consistent sales, dream stockists, and repeat customers who rave about you.Here's what you'll learn:The 5 subtle-but-critical ways your brand identity sells for you (or sabotages you)How to fix weak visuals, inconsistent packaging, or low-vibe photos without a $10K rebrandWhy shelf space, booth layouts, and your Insta grid are prime real estate—and how to make yours irresistibleWhat your unboxing experience says about your values, and how to make it unforgettable (even on a budget)How your brand voice (yep, even your captions and product descriptions) can seal the deal or confuse the heck out of your customersWhy confused branding attracts bargain hunters and ghosters—and how to start drawing in those aligned, loyal, full-price buyers insteadIf you've ever felt like:“Everyone says they love my product, but no one buys…”“My visuals feel a little DIY but I don't know how to upgrade.”“I don't want to discount anymore—I want to be seen as premium.”Then this episode is your sign, your brand audit, and your next move—wrapped up in one.This is also exactly why brand identity is one of the first things I help you get right inside my Roadmap to Profit program. Because once your brand is working for you… the rest gets a whole lot easier.
This episode was recorded during a time of uncertainty — but the ideas shared here are still solid today.In this throwback conversation, Jacob Berry talks with Jared Burt (founder of TUFR Tech and former dealer/OEM leader) about 10 strategic changes dealerships should adopt — not just in a crisis, but to future-proof operations.
Are you feeling like you want more clients and you want to attract the right clients? Then you're going to want to listen to this episode where Yvonne McCoy and our host, Diane Rolston, speak about attracting your right clients with your unique power. Yvonne shares her journey as an entrepreneur for over 30 years and how she discovered that being authentic is the key to attracting ideal clients. Listen to learn these key takeaways:Why women often struggle to see their unique value and how this impacts their ability to attract clientsThe BE FOUND framework that will help you attract your ideal clients authenticallyWhy "your unique power" is not about creating something completely new, but doing something better for the people you want to work withLearn how to identify your unique power through two simple questions that help align your skills with your ideal clientsWhy consistency in outreach is crucial and how to avoid the "feast or famine" cycle in your businessThe client's journey and how to position yourself at each stageThe importance to nurture relationships and delight potential clients before they become paying customersWhy many entrepreneurs struggle with "entrepreneurial prostitution" - doing work they don't enjoy just for the moneyWhy having someone else see your value (like a coach or mastermind group) is essential for business growthYvonne's powerful mantra about persistence and quick recovery that helped her lose over 150 poundsYvonne's Bio: Yvonne McCoy helps entrepreneurs struggling with sporadic sales attract and convert the right clients. Instead of chasing transactions, she focuses on building trust, transforming interactions into lasting relationships, and streamlining systems for sustainable success.After a pivotal moment in 2020, she realized her business had become a cluttered junk drawer—full of programs but lacking strategic focus. This led to the creation of the BE F.O.U.N.D. Framework, a process designed to bring clarity, alignment, and real results.Her message is clear: You don't need to be fixed. You need to be found.Yvonne's Social Media links: Email: coaching@yvonnemccoy.com Book a Call: https://www.bookacallwithyvonne.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-mccoyRegister to Yvonne's monthly workshop, “Attract Your Right Clients With Your Unique Power” every third Wednesday of the month: https://www.yvonnemccoy.com/workshopDownload Yvonne's “Clarify Your Client's Journey: From Pain to Trust to Profit | Unlock Your Unique Edge to Effortlessly Attract and Convert in Just 5 days!” https://www.yvonnemccoy.com/5daychallengeDo you prefer reading blogs or watching videos? Watch Diane's YouTube videos here https://www.youtube.com/@CoachDianeRolston or read her blogs here
Send us a textGot an invention… but no idea how to market it? You don't need a marketing degree or a fancy PR firm—you need YouTube.Want to join an exclusive Discord community of seasoned inventors and be on a first name basis with people who LOVE this world of product development? Access the exclusive Discord through the Patreon below for just $6/Month! ⬇️By popular demand... introducing Grant's "Invent With Me" Patreon.-You may want to join if...1. You have an invention idea but don't know where to go from here...2. You need access to engineers, lawyers, inventors or manufacturers.3. You need inspiration and weekly tips to bring your invention to the market and start making 7-figures from your idea.https://patreon.com/InventWithMe?utm_... IWM Engineer; Lance at https://www.freelancedesigns.ca/The Invent With Me Podcast⬇️Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/2YAZqvv...⬇️Applehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Stephan Meier, Professor at Columbia Business School and author of The Employee Advantage, to explore how employee-centric strategies are reshaping the workplace. Stephan shares how behavioral economics, employee experience, and business strategy intersect, and why treating employees like customers creates competitive advantage.
Today, we are joined by Leslie Zane.Leslie Zane is an award-winning marketer, TEDx speaker and the foremost authority in harnessing the instinctive mind to accelerate brand and business growth. Like many pioneers, Zane's ideas were dismissed early on. In 1995, she founded Triggers®, a CMO advisory and the first brand consulting firm rooted in behavioral science, where she continued to champion the primacy of the instinctive mind in brand decisions. With her groundbreaking discoveries in boosting salience, the Brand Connectome® and Growth Triggers®, Zane and her team have delivered over 2X incremental revenue growth for their Fortune 100 clients.In this episode, we explore the revolutionary concept of the Brand Connectome and how it transforms traditional marketing approaches. Leslie challenges long-held marketing beliefs, explaining that the human mind is unpersuadable through conscious appeals, but highly receptive to unconscious triggers that form instinctive associations with brands. Key topics include:How the Brand Connectome forms in the unconscious mind and drives 95% of purchasing decisionsWhy brands should pursue distinctiveness rather than uniqueness when developing their identityThe counterintuitive approach of layering multiple messages instead of focusing on "one big idea"How growth comes from targeting non-users rather than existing customersWhy fantasy drives consumer decisions more powerfully than reality-based marketingLeslie Zane's Book: "The Power of Instinct: The New Rules of Persuasion in Business and Life" LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lesliezane Website: triggers.com-Website and live online programs: http://ims-online.comBlog: https://blog.ims-online.com/Podcast: https://ims-online.com/podcasts/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesgood/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/charlesgood99Chapters:(00:00) Introduction(01:40) Tool: Understanding the Unconscious Mind's Role in Decision Making(04:00) Technique: Building the Brand Connectome for Instinctive Choice(07:00) Tip: Pursuing Distinctiveness Instead of Uniqueness(11:40) Technique: Combating Negative Brand Perceptions(13:10) Tip: Why Layered Messaging Beats the "One Big Idea" Approach(19:50) Technique: The "Keep, Stop, Add" Formula for Brand Evolution(24:30) Tool: Prioritizing Growth Targets Over Existing Customers(29:30) Tool: Tapping Into Unconscious Fantasies Instead of Reality(33:10) Tip: Why Emotions Alone Don't Drive Brand Decisions(37:50) Technique: Preventing Digital Brand Atrophy Through Consistency(40:00) Conclusion#CharlesGood #LeslieZane #TheGoodLeadershipPodcast #BrandConnectome #UnconsciousDecisionMaking #GrowthTriggers #DistinctiveBrandAssets #ConsumerPsychology #BrandStrategy #LayeredMessaging #GrowthMarketing #BrandEvolution #MarketingMyths #InstinctiveChoice #BrandLoyalty #FantasyMarketing #TriggersBrandConsulting #PowerOfInstinct #BrandManagement #BrandConsistency
Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupIn this episode of the DTC Podcast, we sit down with Andy Hoang, the founder of Aviron, a connected fitness company merging casual gaming with home exercise equipment. From bootstrapping with home equity lines to pivoting from B2B to DTC during COVID, Andy's journey is a case study in high-consideration product growth, investor navigation, and multi-channel marketing.Key Highlights:Why hardware/software hybrid brands require longer go-to-market timelinesThe real story behind getting into Y Combinator after years of rejectionWhy attribution doesn't work for $2K+ purchases—and what doesScaling creative production for UGC, influencer, and AppLovin performanceHow Aviron uses direct mail to connect with 45+ customersWhy expanding SKU options drives down CACIf you're scaling a complex DTC product or navigating the tricky world of funding, this episode is a goldmine of tactical lessons.Timestamps:00:00 – How Andy Hoang bootstrapped Aviron's early days02:45 – Pivoting from B2B to DTC during the pandemic05:10 – Getting into Y Combinator and what changed08:00 – Marketing a $2,000 fitness machine with no clear attribution10:30 – Why Aviron doubled down on gamified fitness13:00 – Competing with Peloton and building defensible software15:25 – Exploring direct mail, influencer, and app-based advertising18:00 – Aviron's 2025 roadmap: New products and price points20:30 – Real talk: Andy's advice for ambitious foundersHashtags:#DTCpodcast#AvironFitness#YCombinator#FounderStory#Bootstrapping#DirectToConsumer#FitnessTech#GamifiedFitness#EcommerceGrowth#StartupLife#PelotonCompetitor#MarketingStrategy#ConnectedFitness#SubscriptionBusiness#VentureCapital Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupAdvertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertiseWork with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouseFollow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletterWatch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video
On today's episode of The No Limits Selling Podcast, we have Zac Stucki, founder of Ignition Point Strategies and regular contributor to Martech.org.He is a seasoned business strategist and the founder of IgnitionPoint Strategies, a firm dedicated to guiding companies through growth and operational challenges. With an MBA and a robust background in business operations, Zac specializes in helping businesses identify and overcome obstacles that impede profitability and scalability.Professional Background:Founder, IgnitionPoint Strategies: At his consultancy, Zac collaborates with businesses to streamline operations, enhance profitability, and achieve sustainable growth.Business Operations Expertise: Zac's extensive experience in business operations allows him to pinpoint inefficiencies and implement strategies that drive success.Together, they dive deep into what it takes to succeed in today's business landscape—from understanding your true competition to building scalable strategies that go beyond surface-level tactics. Topics covered include:Why "Don't Give Up the Ship" is more than just a banner—it's a leadership mindsetThe real battlefield of sales (hint: it's not what you think)Why most companies misunderstand their competitionThe difference between vision, strategy, and tactics (with real-world examples)How to sell to the right person: payer, decider, or user?Three critical things startups must do before chasing customersWhy customer retention—not just acquisition—is the secret to long-term growthThis episode is a goldmine of insights and practical wisdom if you're a sales leader, startup founder, or strategic thinker.Find Zac Stucki:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-stucki[EDITOR'S NOTE: This podcast is sponsored by No Limits Selling. It is a fun, fast-paced podcast that delivers hard-fought business advice that you can implement today to improve your sales and performance]Interested In Our Real Estate Coaching Services? Explore Our Website: https://nolimitsselling.com/Feeling Not Well Today? You Can Use Our Mindset Boosters App To amp Up Your Mood: https://mindsetboosters.com/Find us on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/umarhameedFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindsetboosters/Instagram: https://instagram.com/coachumar.coLike what do you listen to? Subscribe to our podcast!Ready to become fearless? We can help you become fearless in 60 days so you accomplish more in your career Schedule A 15 min Call with Umar: https://cal.com/breakthrough-architect/meeting
Send us a textIn this episode, we interview Darren Keeler, Vice President of Marketing at Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar. Darren shares his journey from radio DJ to marketing leader and how storytelling plays a pivotal role in building brand culture, engagement, and impact.What you'll learn in this episode:How to create a brand culture that resonates with customersWhy storytelling is the most powerful tool in marketingThe origin of the Fresh and Raw Tour and its impact on business and communityHow creative marketing can drive sales without feeling salesyThe role of mission-driven marketing in customer loyaltyDarren's insights prove that marketing isn't just about selling—it's about creating experiences people connect with. Tune in for a masterclass on storytelling, creativity, and brand impact!
Help improve CRAFTED. Please take this quick 5m survey. You might win a prize. Thanks!Accounting may not be the sexiest part of running a business, but according to Sasha Orloff, it's the key to understanding your company's financial health—and ultimately, its success. At his previous two startups, Sasha was frustrated that he didn't have a real-time view into his company's financial health. And he realized the problem wasn't accounting – but accounting software. So, Sasha founded Puzzle, because “it's hard to set yourself up for success if you don't know when you're about to run out of money.” Sasha is on a mission to make accounting intuitive, real-time, and accessible for founders and finance teams alike. In this episode of CRAFTED., we explore how Sasha is crafting Puzzle, how AI makes this the right moment to challenge QuickBooks, and why he was so confident that the market needed Puzzle that he was undaunted by the five years he estimated it would take to build an MVP. "We're not just rethinking accounting software—we're rethinking how founders and CEOs can make data-driven decisions to build enduring companies." Sasha shares:How the frustration he felt at his previous startups led him to Puzzle Why “accounting gets a bad rap”, but it crucial for founders: it's your financial healthWhy second-time founders are ideal customersWhy it took five years to build an MVP – and why he wasn't daunted by this expectationWhy the problem was never accounting, but accounting software and the distorted realities it's built to createWhy AI and modern API's made now the right time to build PuzzleWhy Puzzle is “poking the bear” and putting highway billboards up near QuickBooks HQ(01:04) - Sasha's finance frustrations at previous startups (02:49) - Traditional accounting software isn't made for founders (02:49) - The problem with traditional accounting software (05:35) - What Puzzle does differently: Real-time financial health (08:26) - AI's role in revolutionizing accounting (10:56) - Why second-time founders are Puzzle's ideal users (13:22) - Building a five-year MVP: Challenges and conviction (17:15) - Tackling QuickBooks: Bold marketing moves and billboards (19:49) - Understanding edge cases and complexity in accounting (23:41) - The future of Puzzle: Helping startups thrive (27:35) - Hosting the Turpentine Finance podcast Links:Learn more about Puzzle: Puzzle.ioFollow Sasha Orloff on LinkedIn: Sasha OrloffTurpentine Finance Podcast: Turpentine FinanceCRAFTED. is produced by Modern Product Minds, where CRAFTED. host Dan Blumberg and team can help you take a new product from zero to one... and beyond. We specialize in early stage product discovery, growth, and experimentation. Learn more at modernproductminds.com Subscribe to CRAFTED., follow the show, and sign up for the newsletter
David's startup failed. But he had everything going for him: a solid thesis, $16M in funding across 3 rounds, $1.5M in ARR. At a high-level it seemed like everything was going the right way. And yet, it didn't work out.This is what happens to 95% of startups. On thhis show, we mainly speak with the top 5%-- the ones where things went right and everything worked out. But you tend to learn more from failures than successes.On this episode, we go deep with David to see what building Tandym was like, why it ultimately didn't work, and what he would do differently the second time around.Why you should listen:Why you should always start with the model that requires the least capital Why you need to be a number one priority for your customersWhy even hitting $1M ARR doesn't mean you will succeed.Why you need to pivot quickly as soon as things are clearly not working. iKeywordsproduct-market fit, startup journey, fundraising, fintech, brand partnerships, business model, sales challenges, urgency in sales, Tandem, lessons learned, startup, fundraising, product strategy, compliance, revenue growth, entrepreneurship, lessons learned, business pivot, mid-market brands, capital managementTimestamps(00:00:00) Intro(00:03:30) The Origin of Tandym(00:09:26) Taking the Leap(00:11:37) The Business Model(00:17:22) Developing the Product(00:21:05) Struggling to Create Urgency(00:26:50) Raising Rounds & Shifting(00:35:11) First Signs of Problems(00:39:01) The Product that we should've launched(00:42:12) How it All Ended(00:49:56) Final Thoughts & AdviceSend me a message to let me know what you think!
Want to navigate the complexities of digital transformation successfully? In this episode, Jonathan Murray, the Chief Strategy Officer at Mod Op and co-author of Getting Digital Done, outlines a step-by-step approach to integrating AI into your customer experience strategy. He explains how to build a solid data foundation and establish governance principles that will set your organization up for success. Plus, Jonathan and Lauren discuss the disconnect between leadership and customer needs, and how to bridge that gap using data-driven insights.Tune in to learn:Why organizations often resist new technologies due to fear and uncertaintyHow AI can enhance customer interactions through conversational experiencesHow AI can help rehumanize business interactions with customersWhy organizations must have the right data infrastructure to leverage AIWhy employee experience must be prioritized to ensure successful transformations–How can you bring all your disconnected, enterprise data into Salesforce to deliver a 360-degree view of your customer? The answer is Data Cloud. With more than 200 implementations completed globally, the leading Salesforce experts from Professional Services can help you realize value quickly with Data Cloud. To learn more, visit salesforce.com/products/data to learn more. Mission.org is a media studio producing content alongside world-class clients. Learn more at mission.org.
What does it take to truly win over customers in today's fast-paced digital landscape? Join us as Danny Pozo, Cisco's VP of U.S. Commercial Customer Experience, shares his unique perspective on customer experience at Cisco. From the importance of emotional intelligence to the role of AI in CX, this episode dives deep into the strategies that can make or break customer relationships. Are you ready to rethink your approach?Tune in to learn:Why customer experience is about winning a customer, not just a transactionThe importance of emotional intelligence and why it will never be replaced by AIHow to effectively engage with customersWhy you need to build a strong internal culture in order to succeed in customer successHow AI can help predict customer behavior and improve serviceWhy personalization in customer service enhances loyaltyHow taking risks can lead to innovation in customer experience.–How can you bring all your disconnected, enterprise data into Salesforce to deliver a 360-degree view of your customer? The answer is Data Cloud. With more than 200 implementations completed globally, the leading Salesforce experts from Professional Services can help you realize value quickly with Data Cloud. To learn more, visit salesforce.com/products/data to learn more. Mission.org is a media studio producing content alongside world-class clients. Learn more at mission.org.
Gearing up for our seasonFall is when shops start working “on” the business, not “in” the businessFor 25 years, without fail, our phone rings off the hook in the fallGonna have a lot to talk about this yearAlways talking about websites, ecommerce, and Google searchPoint of sale is the center of a lot of our conversationsBRAIN: 35% of shops are considering a change in POS in the next 12 monthsWe delivered for shops this summerEarly adopters used all seasonReviews have been greatSimple. Modern. Easy to use.Has the exact features most shops useClients have great ideas that will make it even betterAdvantage of working with a smaller company like usWe listen to our customersWhy we are the best choiceEverything you need to streamline your bike shop25 years of experience helping bike shops modernizeTrusted by the entire bike industryFriendly and knowledgeable service by people that know the business of bikesNo debate. We have the best data.Feature to feature we are very competitiveEasy for everyone in the shop to useWhat we haveEverything you need to help a customer at the registerWork orders to help you run a professional service departmentBetter inventory management that companies like Square or CloverSMS text messaging built inHands down the best supplier data integrated throughout the softwareCustomer service you can count onWhat to do if you want to learn more Keep it simpleCall us or request a demoNo pressure. Want you to be informed.If you choose to sign upGet you up and running fast with easy onboardingA member of our team will be with you at every stepBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...
AI label turning off consumers; Sonos app mess continues; SAG-AFTRA makes an AI agreement with Narrativ; former Google CEO Eric Schmidt says go ahead and steal content, let the lawyers clean it up after; Grok AI is a dumpster fire; every American's data leaked; geofence warrants unconstitutional; FTC rules on fake online reviews; Daredevil: Born Again; more Long Way; Blackberry doc; the Influencer; the Umbrella Academy; Borderlands; Overcast & podcast players; new solar panel tech; iPads on robot arms; Disney theme parks struggling, new park announcements; the Nightmare Before Christmas lego & resurgence in popularity; station wagons - of the future!Sponsors:DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.1Password Extended Access Management - Check it out at 1Password.com/xam. Secure every sign-in for every app on every device.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!Show notes at https://gog.show/661FOLLOW UPBrands should avoid this popular term. It's turning off customersWhy is the Sonos app so broken?Sonos, still trying to fix its broken app, lays off 100 employeesIN THE NEWSSAG-AFTRA Podcast: “SAG-AFTRA Introduces A.I. Agreement with Narrativ”SAG-AFTRA just inked a deal with AI startup NarrativAI startups can steal IP, hire lawyers to “clean up the mess”Surprise: Musk's new Grok AI model is an absolute dumpster fireCrowdStrike Exec Shows Up to Accept 'Most Epic Fail' Award in PersonHackers may have leaked the Social Security Numbers of every AmericanUS appeals court rules geofence warrants are unconstitutionalThe FTC finalizes its rules clamping down on fake online reviewsCalifornia weakens bill to prevent AI disasters before final vote, taking advice from AnthropicBoeing's Starliner Could Spin Out of Control and Crash Into the Space Station, Expert WarnsCrypto Bro Charters Private SpaceX Mission to Earth's PolesElon Musk Makes Up Cyber Attack After Donald Trump Interview Crashes and BurnsUAW files federal labor charges against Trump, Musk for intimidating workers at X Spaces eventEx-Twitter staffer wins $600K over Musk's click-yes-or-resign ultimatumMEDIA CANDYDaredevil: Born Again Season 2 Is a Go as New Season 1 Footage DebutsApple TV+ Orders More 'Long Way' With Ewan McGregor & Charley BoormanThere's another BlackBerry movie coming out and this one's a documentaryWarner Bros. sends Cartoon Network's website to the digital graveyardThe InfluencerThe Umbrella AcademyBorderlandsAPPS & DOODADSPocket CastsPocket Casts PlansNeuecastPatreon's iOS App Will (Now) Be Forced to Use In-App Purchasing Instead of Its Safari-Based SystemOxford scientists' new light-absorbing material can turn everyday objects into solar panelsA robotics company has 3D printed nearly a hundred homes in TexasThreads gains multiple drafts, audience insights and moreHow to take a scrolling screenshot on iPhonemacOS Sequoia Beta 2 Adds Support for iPhone MirroringApple is reportedly forging ahead with a rotating, iPad-like tabletop deviceTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingDisney's theme parks are struggling, and it's another warning sign for the economyDisney Finally Admits Why Parks Are Empty During Peak SeasonDisney Parks Announcements from D23Consequence Crossword: “Muppet Quotes”The Spectacular Failure of the Star Wars HotelLego's Nightmare Before Christmas Set Comes With a Perfectly Long-Legged Jack SkellingtonMetacastBMW makes the Internet happy, brings M5 station wagon to the USCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSFormer YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki Dies at 56The tech world mourns Susan WojcickiThe YouTube EffectLarry Tesler: Computer scientist behind cut, copy and paste dies aged 74See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Why should you treat your employees like you treat your customers?Why should Chief People Officers think of themselves as Chief Performance Officers? My guest on this episode is Francisco Sorrentino, Chief People Officer at DigitalBridge and I discuss how HR can drive performance and organizational effectiveness. During our conversation Francisco and I discuss:Why you should treat your employees like you treat our customersWhy working in an early stage start-up can drive exponential development and professional growth especially early in your career.What he has learned from working with early stage company founders and CEOsHow he assess talent and determines if someone is a fit for a role or the organizationConnecting with Francisco SorrentinoConnect with Francisco Sorrentino on LinkedInEpisode Sponsor: BizLibrary - Where Learning Happens
Are your "best customers" actually as loyal as you think?Or could it just be a matter of convenience?Join me as I talk to the brilliant Ali Cudby and she shares her insightful take on the different levels of customer loyalty, and how we can help get more of our customers to the highest level - the Lucrative Loyal!BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL LEARN: The three different tiers of customer loyalty - lazy loyals, limited loyals, and lucrative loyalsHow to identify which type of loyal customers you have, and why that distinction is so importantPractical strategies for turning limited loyal customers into highly engaged, "lucrative" loyal customersWhy fostering authentic advocacy from your best customers is so valuable (and how to avoid the pitfalls)The hidden costs of acquiring the "wrong" customers, and why it's critical to have a clear ideal customer profileWhen you finish listening, I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from today's episode. Share it on LinkedIn and Tag me and Ali!Find Ali CudbyAlignmint for GrowthLinkedinAbout Ali Ali Cudby, Founder, and CEO of Alignmint Growth Strategies, is a dynamic force in transforming businesses through intentional customer experiences. With a mission to architect superior customer interactions that drive growth, Ali's expertise lies in aligning strategy and implementation for uncontainable growth.As the author of the #1 bestselling book "Keep Your Customers," Ali provides a fresh perspective on customer relations, offering insights from real-world consumer behavior stories, business best practices, and CEO-led case studies. Her proven four-step MINT Method, outlined in the book, has been the cornerstone of her work at Alignmint, helping clients achieve transformational customer loyalty.With over 20 years of experience, Ali has honed her craft, having started in corporate planning at The New York Times Company and later delving into strategic marketing at the Golf Digest Magazine Group and Animal Planet TV Network. Her journey continued with the founding of Alignmint Growth Strategies in 2014, focusing on making a difference for small to mid-sized companies.Beyond her role as a business leader, Ali taught Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Purdue University, embodying her commitment to nurturing the next generation of business minds. In her podcast appearances, Ali brings a wealth of knowledge on customer experience, growth strategies, and the intersection of intentional processes and business success. With Ali, customer experience isn't just a department—it's the essence of cross-functional, intentional efforts driving businesses to new heights.CONNECT WITH RACHELFollow at: LinkedInInstagram WEBSITE https://provansuccess.comPODCAST WEBSITEhttps://psychologyofcustomersuccess.comWORK WITH RACHEL: CS Leadership Academy
We are debuting a new regular segment of the podcast called “Inside Exit Five.” We will dive into some of the popular topics and share lessons and learnings from inside the Exit Five community.Dave is joined by Matt Carnevale (Marketing Manager at Exit Five), and they coverDo nurture sequences still work in B2B?Best books, resources, and strategies to become a better copywriterHow to become the go-to resource for your customersWhy brand matters in B2BPS. We'd love to get your questions and feature you on this podcast. Have a hot topic, a burning question, or just want to say hi? Send us a voicenote at hi@exitfive.com and we will feature you on the show. Emails are fine too, but a voice note might get you on the pod :)Timestamps(00:00) - - Introduction to this new podcast format (02:00) - - Nurture sequences: do they work? (07:20) - - Mastering Copywriting: Practical Tips and Techniques (11:50) - - Elevating B2B Branding: The Power of Reputation (16:33) - - Building B2B Brand Equity: Beyond Identity to Reputation (18:46) - - Becoming the Trusted Authority: Crafting Your Strategic Narrative
In this unique episode, you get to hear my full webinar, “How to Legally Protect Your Online Business in 2024.” I'll give you the five steps every entrepreneur needs to take, and take immediately: Shift your mindset, register as the right business entity, protect yourself in case of a lawsuit, get your contracts and policies in place, and stay within your scope of practice. Plus, I give you the “2024 Online Business State of the Union” to let you know about recent changes to the legal and financial landscape for online businesses. Ready to learn? Tune in now!In this episode, you'll hear…How to proactively protect yourself from lawsuitsWhat a scope of practice is and why it is importantHow contracts and policies will help you attract good customersWhy it is important to pick the right business entity to register as The peace of mind and positive energy you'll get once your business' legal and financial foundation is in placeClick here to find the full show notes and transcript for this episode.RESOURCES:The Ultimate Bundle® is on sale through February 28, 2024. If you buy it before February 23, 2024, you'll receive a special bonus! Buy The Ultimate Bundle® today.CONNECT:Sam on InstagramSam on FacebookOn Your Terms on InstagramDISCLAIMERProduced by NOVA MediaMentioned in this episode:UB SalesBiggest savings of the year! Grab the Ultimate Bundle before 02.28 and save $500 when you pay in full! UB Sales
Which is better: low-ticket or high-ticket? That's a big debate in the online business world. Lots of sellers are pushing high-ticket offers these days because higher-priced programs earn money faster. But did you know the majority of your audience will never buy a high-ticket offer? If you're not selling a low-ticket offer on autopilot, either with or without a higher-ticket offer on the back end, then you're missing an incredible opportunity to scale your online business to new income heights. In this episode of The Inspired Business Podcast, I'll share three reasons why low-ticket funnels can lead to breakthrough growth, plus some key factors to consider when choosing the right low-ticket product for your audience. Highlights:The definition of a low-ticket productAre you ignoring 99 percent of your prospective customers?Low-ticket offers give customers a low-risk chance to get to know youHigh-ticket buyers will come from your low-ticket pool of customersWhy recurring income from automated low-ticket funnels benefits more than just the bottom lineThe key to choosing a low-ticket program is the problem it solvesThree factors you should reserve for your high-ticket offerYour low-ticket offer should be valuable yet scalable in terms of your time and availabilityResources mentioned in this episode:Partner marketing podcast series:Part 1: What Is Partner Marketing and How Does It WorkPart 2: Seven Partner Marketing Activities You Can Do to Grow Your Email List and Your SalesPart 3: How to Find Great Marketing PartnersClick HERE to learn more about the Inspired Business Mentorship.Click HERE to learn more about the Funnel Club.Are you a digital marketing genius? Take our quiz to find out!Plus watch our FREE masterclass: How to Create and Sell Digital Products Without Feeling Stupid, Salesy, or Sacrilegious
In this week's episode of the SIMPLE brand podcast, I talk with Derrick Daye.Derrick is the managing partner of The Blake Project, a strategic brand consultancy that helps businesses gain an emotional advantage, a distinctive advantage, and a connective advantage, moving them from brand awareness to brand insistence.He's the founder of Branding Strategy Insider - an online publication to help marketing-oriented leaders and professionals build strong brands.Derrick and I discuss what goes into building a lasting brand that connects with customers and keeps them for the long term.Here's what we discuss:How brand strategy has evolved vs. what has stayed the sameThe best definition of a brandHow to tie brand and business strategy together when starting a brandHow branding and customer experience relateThe best way to build a brandHow to create a strong emotional connection with your customersWhy storytelling is key to the brand conversationRESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Derrick's websiteDerek's publication - Branding Strategy InsiderDerrick on LinkedIn