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In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by John True. They talk about the significance of emotional quotient (EQ) and authentic leadership in B2B sales. They discuss the critical skills required for reading the room, active listening, self-awareness, and authentic curiosity. John True shares insights on assessing EQ in sales leaders, the importance of vulnerability and genuine interest in helping others succeed, and the evolving landscape of private equity and AI in software companies. The conversation highlights the balance between science and art in sales leadership and the long-term impacts of being around great people and networks.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about John True:https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-true-5b9653/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:20] The Importance of Emotional Quotient (EQ) in Sales Leadership[00:04:14] Challenges of Digital Interactions in Sales[00:05:41] Effective Interview Techniques for Sales Leaders[00:08:15] Reading the Room: Identifying Key Players in Sales Meetings[00:10:02] The Role of In-Person Meetings in Sales[00:12:23] Defining and Developing Emotional Quotient (EQ)[00:23:03] Authentic Curiosity: A Key Trait for Sales Success[00:31:05] Leadership and Emotional Intelligence[00:34:40] Identifying Authentic Leadership in Sales[00:36:57] The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership[00:38:25] Addressing Turnover and Accountability[00:40:09] Assessing Candidates' Authentic Curiosity[00:42:19] The Wana Factor in Leadership[00:43:11] Patriots vs. Mercenaries: Building Loyal Teams[00:45:53] Transformational vs. Transactional Leadership[00:46:51] Choosing Opportunities: Position vs. Growth[00:49:35] The Value of Great Networks and People[00:54:41] Trends in Private Equity and Software?[01:00:10] The Impact of AI on Future Opportunities[01:05:27] The Intersection of Art and Science in Revenue BuildingHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:07:50] "Great salespeople are able to navigate and adjust their message to the right people at the right level over time."[00:09:26] "You have to be here and in the moment to truly listen and respond with intuition."[00:36:40] "Effective leaders genuinely enjoy helping others succeed in their own terms."[00:48:54] "Many people confuse position with opportunity. Long-term success comes from prioritizing quality of leadership and growth."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Marcy Stoudt, CEO and partner at Revel Search and Revel Coach. Marcy shares actionable advice on networking with intention, understanding energy management, and distinguishing between opportunity and position when evaluating career moves. Whether you're a leader, sales professional, or someone navigating a career transition, Marcy's insights will help you approach networking and interviewing with the right mindset to find roles that truly align with your values and energize you.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:24] Networking strategies: Build connections subtly without signaling job hunting.[00:01:43] Energy management vs. time management: Why knowing what energizes you matters.[00:02:51] Assessing energy alignment in job roles: Questions to uncover what fuels or drains you.[00:03:31] The role of mindset: How being in the right energy state affects job searching outcomes.[00:04:54] Opportunity vs. position: Why a lower title at a better company may be the smarter choice.QUOTES[00:01:43] "I don't believe in time management; I believe in energy management."[00:02:51] "If you're not honest about what gives you energy and what doesn't, that's on you.[00:03:49] "When you're in a good space, you think differently, you email differently, and you work harder."[00:05:16] "Don't confuse opportunity with position. Let go of your ego and focus on long-term growth."Listen to the full conversation with Marcy Stoudt through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/mastering-work-life-balance-with-marcy-stoudtEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Kara Gilbert, a seasoned executive coach with extensive experience in Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups. Kara shares her insights on the key themes and strategies that emerge during her coaching sessions with high-achieving executives. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal values with professional goals, the power of conscious leadership, and the pivotal role of feedback and accountability in fostering growth. The discussion also touches on the challenges of first-time managers, the value of active listening, and the personal habits that contribute to success. Kara's unique background and approach to coaching offer invaluable lessons for leaders aiming to navigate complex environments and achieve next-level performance.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Kara Gilbert:https://www.linkedin.com/in/karagilbert/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:22] The Personal Nature of Coaching[00:04:31] Challenges and Themes in Executive Coaching[00:09:14] The Importance of Listening in Leadership[00:12:21] Self-Reflection and Managerial Growth[00:16:07] Balancing Protect and Serve as a Leader[00:25:03] Feedback and Continuous Improvement[00:34:05] Coaching Through Social Anxiety[00:34:45] The Importance of Being Interested[00:36:14] Balancing Leadership and Personal Well-being[00:37:00] Creating Good Habits and Living by Value[00:39:24] The Challenge of Maintaining Balance[00:41:13] Personal Inventory and Self-awareness[00:50:49] The Power of Accountability in Coaching[00:56:09] Engaging with a Professional CoachHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:59] "The thing about coaching is it's so personal... I think coaching's actually an accelerant to growth and to opportunity."[00:03:27] "People, when they pause can be really thoughtful and break through things that they just haven't had time to think about.[00:05:44] "The most elite people on the planet, the most effective people, the happiest people... they know their story and they've owned their story."[00:15:11] "People rarely argue with their own conclusions. And I think the greatest leaders figure that out.[00:33:20] "The more interested you are lasts so much longer in human behavior than how interesting you are."[00:45:26] "Find the things that give you energy... And craft your job or your life around those things that give you energy."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan dive into the critical role adaptability plays in career success. They explore why some professionals resist change, how coachability and curiosity shape growth, and what leaders should look for when hiring top talent. Through real-world examples and insights, they unpack the psychology behind adaptability, trust, and long-term potential in business and sales leadership.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:25] The Misconception About Adaptability – Many professionals mistakenly see adaptability as a weakness rather than a strength[00:01:28] The Evolution of Career Mobility – Job-hopping is no longer a red flag but an expectation in today's job market[00:02:39] Trust, Micromanagement, and Coaching Resistance – Leaders should examine the deeper reasons behind employee concerns about trust.[00:03:44] The Fear of Change and Growth – Some individuals resist coaching because they fear exposing what they don't know.[00:04:07] The Link Between Coachability and Adaptability – Success depends on both being coachable and having the courage to act on feedback.[00:04:58] The Ceiling Effect in Performance – Those who resist change often never reach their full potential[00:05:25] Curiosity as a Key to Growth – A lack of adaptability often correlates with a lack of curiosity[00:06:47] Recognizing and Managing Resistance in Employees – Leaders must understand when an employee's resistance to change is really about their comfort zone.QUOTES[00:02:17] "It's not a problem not to know, but it is a crime punishable by death not to do anything about it and not to ask."}[00:04:07] "Coachability and adaptability go together—you have to be coachable first, then courageous enough to change."[00:04:58] "The best performers never protect their current level—they always push for what's next."[00:05:25] "Curiosity and adaptability are deeply connected—those unwilling to ask ‘what if' often resist growth."[00:06:09] "When employees pull the ‘trust card,' it's often their last resort to avoid change."Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/the-importance-of-recruiting-behavioral-traits-with-chaz-maclaughlinEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inboxhttps://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book hereAmazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Joe Eskenazi, Chief Revenue Officer at Kong. Joe discusses the importance of developing a performance mindset over a knowledge mindset in sales, emphasizing the focus on outcomes and achieving goals. He shares insights into training and development practices that enhance sales performance, including preparation, role-playing, and handling objections. The discussion also explores the role of intuition, human behavior, and the application of AI in optimizing API management. Joe highlights how these practices have cultivated a high-performing, collaborative culture at Kong and underscores the company's hiring objectives.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Joe Eskenazi:https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeeskenazi/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:45] Performance Mindset vs. Knowledge Mindset[00:02:31] The Art and Science of Sales Mastery[00:05:38] Training and Developing Sales Skills[00:07:21] Handling Objections and Building Confidence[00:17:19] The Importance of Intuition and Experience in Sales[00:30:27] Slowing Down the Conversation[00:31:18] The Importance of Experience in Sales[00:33:04] Preparedness Reduces Stress[00:35:12] The Role of Development in Sales[00:40:19] The Power of Role-Playing and Team Exercises[00:48:56] Empowering Your Team to Solve Problems[00:50:14] The Impact of a Performance Mindset[00:54:37] Kong's Role in the API RevolutionHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"The best leaders focus on the how in sales.""Our development often focuses on what could go right; the real bar is how you handle things when they don't.""Skills need to be done hundreds of times, if not thousands, to be performed flawlessly.""Openers are closers; the groundwork you lay in the beginning determines your success.""You empower people by recognizing and rewarding the behavior you want to see.""You have to give them the way. But make it simple."
If your big deals are stalling, John McMahon says it likely comes down to one mistake: confusing a coach with a champion.We're re-releasing one of our most popular episodes ever with the legendary John McMahon, former CRO at iconic companies like PTC and Ariba and author of The Qualified Sales Leader. He joins Ross to deliver some famously direct truths about what it really takes to win.This isn't about complex theories. It's about getting the fundamentals right. Here are three things you'll learn from John in this episode:The Coach vs. Champion Test: A coach gives you information, but a champion has influence and gets you to the economic buyer. Learn John's simple test to find out which one you really have.Make Fundamentals Muscle Memory: Reps can't listen if they're busy trying to remember the playbook. John explains how to turn your process into an instinct, freeing up reps to actually focus on navigating the deal.How to Compete Against Everyone: You're no longer just competing against other vendors. You're up against every other investment the CFO is reviewing. Learn how to ensure your champion is ready to fight for your business case.
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with George Mogannam, CRO of Celigo, to explore the foundational gaps that hinder scalable growth—particularly in recruiting, onboarding, and team cohesion. George unpacks what most companies miss when trying to scale, including the absence of ideal hiring profiles, lack of onboarding discipline, and broken internal processes. He also emphasizes the power of in-person connection, the hidden cost of remote culture, and the importance of aligning internal teams during growth surges.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:25] Common Gaps in Scaling Sales Teams: Many organizations lack ideal hiring profiles, onboarding processes, KPIs, and operational rhythms.[00:01:40] Remote Work's Cultural Void: Remote work has eroded the informal peer-to-peer learning and camaraderie critical to high-performing sales teams.[00:02:37] Why In-Person Teams Outperform: George shares research that shows 4x higher churn in remote teams versus co-located ones—highlighting the need for centralized sales orgs.[00:03:37] The True ROI of Sales Kickoffs: More than training, it's the peer interaction, story-sharing, and cross-learning that drive culture and performance.[00:04:30] The Overlooked Bottleneck in Scaling: Many CROs underestimate internal readiness for hiring sprees, especially around slow offer letter processes and internal misalignment.[00:06:59] Fixing Internal Bottlenecks: George details how his team automated contract counter-signatures to reduce booking delays and avoid customer disruptions.QUOTES[00:01:14] “There's a sales process, but no one's really utilizing it… there's no discipline around it.”[00:02:01] “You will get four times higher churn when everybody's remote versus when people are together.”[00:03:37] “The priceless part comes from them all engaging together... more powerful than all the formal training.”[00:04:59] “Companies don't realize they're a walking audition for what it's going to be like to work for them.”[00:06:41] “That's how you burn cash in an organization—when internal readiness doesn't match external hiring urgency.”[00:07:27] “If the order isn't executed at the proper time, we can accidentally shut the customer off.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/scaling-high-growth-sales-organizations-with-george-mogannamEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Eric Erston, CRO of RegScale. They explore the characteristics of top sales teams and delve into the importance of focus, understanding the ideal customer and persona profiles, and the balance of technology and human connection in sales. The conversation also highlights the critical role of leadership in fostering vulnerability, accountability, and continuous learning within sales teams. Eric shares valuable lessons from his extensive career, emphasizing the importance of hiring the right people, empowering teams, and adapting sales strategies to evolving market demands. The episode is rich with practical tips and heartfelt anecdotes, making it a must-listen for sales leaders and professionals aiming to elevate their game.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Eric Erston:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericerston/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:07] Qualities of Top Performing Sales Teams[00:05:37] Understanding the Ideal Customer Profile[00:07:53] The Importance of Persona Profiles[00:18:43] Creating a Culture of Vulnerability[00:34:17] Leadership Authenticity and Empowerment[00:35:18] Balancing Vision and Execution[00:37:14] Setting Standards of Performance[00:41:14] Accountability and Rewarding Overachievers[00:41:48] The Importance of Simplicity in Leadership[00:44:40] The Role of Coaching and Feedback[00:51:05] Adapting Sales Strategies[00:56:44] The Impact of Video Calls on Sales[01:00:43] Opportunities at RegScaleHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"You have to earn the right to get to that personal discussion.""Enablement without accountability is a failure to lead.""Get the right people, everything is so much easier.""Lots of sales teams aren't focused.""In order to know how to qualify out, we've gotta know what success is.""The most elite people devour the information provided by the company and then invest their intellect and curiosity into getting to know the individual human component.""How you sell can be just as important as what you sell.""In the old days, one of the best pieces of advice I ever got was if it's in print, expect that they expect you've read it.""If you're not making enough calls, you're not going to succeed.""Find a culture where it's comfortable being vulnerable."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Matt Maloney, SVP of Global Sales at Fireblocks, to dissect a critical lesson in sales leadership: the unwavering focus on hitting the number. Maloney recounts a pivotal mentoring moment at CloudLock that reshaped his approach to sales strategy, team structure, and market calibration. The episode also explores common missteps in early-stage startups—like trying to pursue too many use cases or building teams misaligned with the product's true market fit. It's a candid and practical masterclass for CROs, sales leaders, and founders navigating go-to-market chaos.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:52] The #1 job of a sales leader isn't building teams—it's figuring out how to hit the number.[00:02:41] Calibration of resources is critical: Balance dominance in core markets with smart expansion into emerging ones.[00:03:41] A hard lesson: Building the wrong sales team for the product's actual market fit can derail everything.[00:04:24] Why focusing on 3-4 key use cases is more effective than spreading thin across many[00:05:50] Avoid copying old playbooks—be objective about your current product and ICP[00:06:35] Collaborate with technical founders: Align sales goals, use data, and define outlier strategies together.[00:07:24] Operating without a clear ICP is dangerous—know how to scale, train, and forecast from it.QUOTES[00:02:15] "Your job is not to build an enterprise sales team or an SMB team—it's to build the right team to hit the number.[00:03:41] "I was convinced our guiding light was to build an enterprise team. What I didn't realize was that our product was really suited for mid-market."[00:05:08] "You can't build world-class products, marketing, or sales training for 13 use cases. Focus is everything.[00:07:00] "Outliers are okay, but you need a plan for them. Don't pretend they're your core ICP."[00:07:47] "If you can't identify your ICP and scale from it, you're operating in dangerous water."Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/blockchain-the-future-of-finance-with-matt-maloney-loysynttEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
This is hour 74 of the 1000 Hours podcast series looking back at the pre-Frank Gotch era of pro wrestling in the United States. This podcast is taken from the pages of my latest book DragonKingKarl's Pioneer Era of Pro Wrestling Omnibus available from Amazon. This episode is packed with big happenings. The late 1870s saw the peak of the first Greco-Roman era of wrestling while Collar and Elbow was struggling. John McMahon and Col. James H. McLaughlin, the two biggest names of the time, have their three-match series. William Muldoon is on the rise and the wild story of the fake Andre Christol! The extended Patreon version is here - https://www.patreon.com/posts/132041763 YOU CONTROL THIS SERIES! It will only run as long as it is supported. In order to get another hour of 1000 hours we need a new Patreon supporter at any level or a cash donation via the front page of WhenItWasCool.com to either PayPal or CashApp (Please put “1000” in the note). As soon as it is received, I will produce a new hour. Presently, we are funded up to hour 93.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Bobby Morrison, Chief Revenue Officer of Shopify, to discuss the transformative power of AI in the sales domain. Bobby shares an in-depth look at Shopify's innovative approach to structuring their go-to-market strategy using pods, which integrate sales, customer success, and engineering teams for optimal client engagement and business growth. He delves into the role of AI in streamlining tasks, enhancing craft, and orchestrating workflows, while highlighting Shopify's AI-first philosophy and the democratization of AI tools across the company. Bobby also touches on the importance of industry-specific knowledge, the benefits of the Chaos Monkey practice to prevent organizational entropy, and the evolving expectations of modern buyers. This episode provides invaluable insights into leveraging AI to drive sales performance and organizational agility.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Bobby Morrison:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-morrison-60663327/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:25] Understanding Shopify's Business Model[00:02:57] Shopify's Go-to-Market Strategy[00:04:55] Transition to Pod Structure[00:09:21] Industry Expertise and Pod Implementation[00:14:00] AI Integration at Shopify[00:17:17] Hiring and Training for AI Proficiency[00:21:38] Challenges and Future of AI in Sale[00:29:41] Enhancing Employee Performance Through Observation[00:30:21] Leveraging Call Recordings for Better Coaching[00:32:17] The Role of AI in Job Security[00:33:25] Importance of Deep Domain Expertise[00:35:30] Customer Expectations and Specialized Software[00:37:22] The Pod Structure and Compensation Models[00:41:31] Partner Ecosystem and Collaboration|[00:42:47] Managing AI and Intellectual Property[00:45:54] Chaos Monkey and Organizational Flexibility[00:51:50] Future of Sales Teams with AIHIGHLIGHT QUOTESOn AI: “AI is not gonna replace your job, but the people using AI will.”On Culture: “Toby [the CEO] advises that Shopify should intentionally destabilize enough to avoid ruts and maintain agility.”On Alignment: “We win best when we win with our partners.”On Future Vision: “I dream one day that our sales teams will wake up and just have great conversations with customers, free from low-value tasks.”
In this short segment, John McMahon talks through what it means to get a Champion to actively sell on your behalf. Much of which comes down to Power and Influence. He and John Kaplan talk through the nuances of finding someone with Power and Influence. Check out the full episode here: https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/a-closer-look-at-championsHere are additional episodes on Champions: Coaches vs. Champions: https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/coaches-vs-champions-with-anne-garyChampions and a Bias for Action: https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/champions-and-a-bias-for-action-with-richard-rivera
ORIGINAL AIR DATE: JUNE 17, 2018With help from his mentor John McMahon, this is the first (and only) session of the New Horizons podcast with Peter Goodgame, talking about the Fatherhood of God and how this concept has been almost completely forgotten in Western Christianity.
Chris Degnan is one of the most legendary CROs of this generation. He joined Snowflake as employee #13 and the 1st sales hire. He scaled the sales org from 0 to over $3B in ARR, spanned four CEOs, and retired as CRO after 11 years. In his first podcast post-retirement, Chris opened his CRO playbook, from early enablement to hiring rigor and fending off threats from competitors. He also reflects on lessons from working with leaders like Frank Slootman, John McMahon, and Sridhar Ramaswamy. If you're a founder or running sales at a startup, this one is for you. (00:00) Introduction to Chris's Journey at Snowflake (01:47) Navigating Leadership Changes (04:39) The Importance of Sales Methodology and Enablement (10:22) Near-Death Experiences and Company Resilience (13:39) Building a Strong Sales Organization (27:25) Hiring and Scaling the Sales Team (34:52) Board Dynamics and Mentorship (44:29) The Influence of John McMahon (46:22) Leadership Styles and Intuition (46:56) Launching Snowflake Japan (49:39) Learning from Leaders (55:10) The Importance of Competitive Moats (59:12) Snowflake vs. Databricks (01:07:45) Public vs. Private Markets (01:14:03) Sales and Marketing Synergy (01:26:17) Final Thoughts and Future Plans Executive Producer: Rashad Assir Producer: Leah Clapper Mixing and editing: Justin Hrabovsky Check out Unsupervised Learning, Redpoint's AI Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@UCUl-s_Vp-Kkk_XVyDylNwLA
What if the most affordable and effective treatment for autoimmune diseases isn't a pill—but light? In this episode, Adi Soozin interviews John McMahon, the medtech veteran behind over $500 million in exits and now co-founder of Cytoind, a company harnessing narrowband UVB phototherapy to retrain the immune system—safely, affordably, and with stunning early results.Recently featured on the cover of Scientific American, Cytoind's tech mimics sunlight to reduce MS fatigue and may hold the key to treating other autoimmune diseases. With existing insurance coverage, FDA engagement, and a $4M raise underway for their pivotal trial, this episode dives into one of the most exciting biotech frontiers—and a rare investment opportunity.From the biology of light to billion-dollar potential, this is a must-listen for founders, investors, and futurists alike.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by seasoned sales leader Jim Drill to discuss essential aspects of the B2B sales process, career development, and leadership. Jim shares valuable lessons from his extensive career, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer pain points, selling higher in the customer organization, and connecting solutions to concrete business metrics. Through insightful stories from his experience at companies like IBM, PTC, and beyond, Jim highlights how asking the right questions and staying curious can lead to substantial sales success. The conversation also delves into practical advice for young sellers and leaders, stressing the significance of structured training and continuous learning. Jim's anecdotes offer perspective on effectively driving urgency, building strong champions, and implementing impactful sales strategies.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Jim Drill:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimdrill/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:09] Jim's Early Career at IBM[00:05:23] Learning the Sales Process[00:07:13] The Importance of Curiosity and Learning[00:15:34] Advice for Young Sellers[00:21:15] Understanding Business Metrics[00:30:08] High-Level Sales Strategies[00:38:08] Budget Constraints and Problem Solving[00:38:43] The M and W Approach to Organizational Navigation[00:39:12] Connecting Metrics to Urgency and Champions[00:40:12] The Importance of Metrics in Sales[00:41:09] Creating Emotional Connections in Sales[00:45:51] The Power of the Champion Letter[00:56:58] The Role of Sales Leadership[01:00:31] Common Mistakes in StartupsHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"Knowledge builds confidence. Confidence turns into credibility. Credibility turns into enthusiasm. That turns into passion, and passion turns into persuasion. But the foundation is knowledge.""The urgency, lack of champions—if sellers are struggling, go back to your metrics. Where are you with your metrics?""Consultative selling is not just about providing solutions, but deeply understanding the pain points and creating value.""You can either do this, separate yourself and set yourself up for the future, or you're going to end up working for someone that did it.""Fires are going to happen. My job is to make sure the whole forest doesn't burn down."
In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we delve into the intricate world of sales negotiation with expert Tim Caito from Force Management. We explore the crucial aspects of negotiation, from preparing champions to dealing with procurement and the power of starting early in the sales process. Tim shares valuable insights and strategies to help organizations preserve value in the final deal and achieve successful negotiations.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:07] Starting early in the sales process is crucial for successful negotiation.[00:02:09] Begin the negotiation process before the other side believes you're negotiating.[00:02:58] Having a better alternative gives leverage in negotiations.[00:04:00] Making negotiations about the client's alternative rather than yours is a powerful tactic.[00:05:51] Procurement's role and the importance of preparing champions for the negotiation process.[00:08:23] The significance of creating a powerful cost justification to resist procurement pressure.[00:10:46] The role of champions as the great equalizer in the negotiation process.[00:12:17] Anticipating competitive tactics and preparing champions to handle external pressure.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:26] "Start the negotiation process before the other side believes we're negotiating."[00:03:18] "If the rep doesn't have a solid alternative, it gives the power back to procurement."[00:08:48] "You have to have done such a good cost justification that they feel like they're losing every day that goes by."[00:10:27] "Champions are the great equalizer in a negotiation process."[00:13:52] "We have to prep them because it is going to happen, and we have to role play and ask specifically, what are you going to say when they ask this question."Listen to the full episode with Tim Caito through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/the-secrets-of-sales-negotiation-with-tim-caitoCheck out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
1000 Hour is my continuing podcast series about the pioneer era of pro wrestling. The pioneer era is the time before Frank Gotch, roughly 1850 to 1900. It was an era of wild showmen and tough real wrestlers. This episode continues our chronological journey through the pioneer era of wrestling via my book DragonKingKarl's Pioneer Era Pro Wrestling Omnibus. This week we are in the 1870s and the wrestling bears are still causing trouble, every newspaper has a different idea who the American champion is, and the two biggest stars of the time: John McMahon and Col. James H. McLaughlin have the first two of their trio of matches... and then somebody drags out a sword. YOU CONTROL THIS SERIES! It will only run as long as it is supported. In order to get another hour of 1000 hours we need a new Patreon supporter at any level or a cash donation via the front page of WhenItWasCool.com to either PayPal or CashApp (Please put “1000” in the note). As soon as it is received, I will produce a new hour. Presently, we are funded up to hour 93.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Paul Capombassis, Chief Revenue Officer at MongoDB. They discuss Paul's extensive career from PTC to MongoDB, focusing on his strategies for creating high-performance cultures in sales. Paul shares his approach to hiring disruptors over domain experts, the importance of developing leaders from within, and the transformational programs like BDR to CRO that MongoDB has implemented. The conversation also highlights the critical role of adaptability, the significance of leadership authenticity, and the necessity of consistent leader enablement. This episode is rich with insights on how to elevate sales teams and drive company growth.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Paul Capombassis:https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-capombassis-3684b211/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:59] Building a High-Performance Culture at MongoDB[00:04:45] Characteristics of a Disruptor in Sales[00:06:56] Challenges of Selling Disruptive Technology[00:16:11] Importance of Leadership and Enablement[00:21:57] Adapting to Change in a Fast-Growing Company[00:23:58] Coaching and Developing Leaders[00:30:21] Adapting Leadership for Business Growth[00:31:56] The Importance of Authentic Leadership[00:33:32] Recruitment and Enablement Strategies[00:34:40] Domain Expertise vs. Scaling with Hunters[00:38:22] Leader Development Programs[00:41:51] Challenges in Assessing Team Strengths[00:47:06] Second Line Leadership Responsibilities[00:50:23] Inspiring Through AuthenticityHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"When you lead with authenticity, the value that you get out of that and your organization gets out of that is it's game-changing.""Every time you make a hire... it's a million-dollar bet that you're taking.""Change requires discipline. And discipline is really hard.""High-performing companies set up a great enablement program, not just for your ics, but especially for leader enablement.""Great leaders today are the best coaches.""The best leaders today are the ones that can connect technical capabilities to business outcomes."
In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, Chris Reising, a five-time Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) with extensive experience in scaling sales at early-stage tech companies, shares invaluable insights into the challenges and strategies involved in scaling sales functions for startups. From finding product-market fit to hiring the right sales reps and understanding the importance of pain points, this conversation provides a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:17] In the early stages of a startup, you must wear multiple hats, including being a product manager and a sales professional. Understanding the ICP and gathering customer insights are crucial.[00:02:31] The early days of a startup involve learning every day, attending sales meetings, understanding objections, and identifying the value your technology brings. Effective communication with the product team is key.[00:04:05] Investor relations play a significant role. Early-stage investors look for different data points, and their feedback can be invaluable in understanding market signals.[00:06:11] The importance of prioritizing technology components based on customer pain points and the potential to generate immediate revenue.[00:07:44] Recognizing a recurring pattern in sales discussions where customers react positively to specific functionalities is a sign of repeatability and scalability.[00:09:05] Founders who want to remain deeply involved in the sales process need guidance on when to step back. It's a common challenge in early-stage startups.[00:12:42] Breaking down a grand vision into bite-sized chunks of value that address specific business problems is crucial for achieving repeatability and market success.[00:13:30] Expanding the vision is essential but keeping the framework simple enough for the market and sales team to understand and execute is key to early-stage success.[00:13:50] The importance of focusing sales efforts on the most productive areas and avoiding the mistake of spreading sales teams too thin.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:06:56] "When you start to recognize a recurring pattern...you start to say, 'Now I have some sense of repeatability,' and that's really important."[00:10:08] "There's a huge difference between a first and second-time founder...you need to help them understand that stepping away is an important part of growing the business."[00:13:01] "Recognize you've got to break that big vision down into bite-sized chunks that can be digested by your go-to-market team and by the market, by customers."[00:13:30] "Where are we going to place our salespeople? Where are they going to be the most productive? That's really a key point."Listen to the full episode with Chris Reisig in this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/building-a-scalable-culture-with-chris-reisigEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Chris Scanlan, Chief Revenue Officer at HUMAN. With over two decades of experience in cybersecurity and a history of transformative leadership, Chris shares his insights on key topics such as sales effectiveness, recruiting, enablement, and the importance of a robust revenue operations function. Emphasizing the significance of a well-defined ideal candidate profile and the indispensable role of revenue operations in analyzing data to inform business decisions, Chris provides practical advice and real-world examples that any business leader can benefit from. Tune in for an in-depth discussion that covers the fundamentals of building high-performing teams and driving organizational change.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Chris Scanlan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cscanlan/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:39] The Importance of Recruiting in Sales[00:05:31] Building an Ideal Candidate Profile[00:09:46] The Role of Enablement in Sales Success[00:14:47] Adapting to Market Changes and Challenges[00:24:17] The Value of Continuous Training and Development[00:29:08] Commitment to Sales Excellence[00:35:37] Doubling Sales Productivity[00:36:07] The Importance of Average Productivity per Rep[00:38:57] Training and Onboarding for Success[00:42:13] The Role of Sales Leaders in Instilling Discipline[00:45:42] The Critical Role of Frontline Sales Managers[00:50:09] Revenue Operations and Data-Driven Decisions[00:56:43] The Ideal Profile for Rev OpsHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"Bad news can't wait because bad news travels really slow uphill.""Recruiting for sure and retainment of those people has always been one of the levers to success wherever I've been.""The best rev ops leaders can take the data and make informed decisions that align with the company's vision and strategy.""This isn't something that I'm doing to you for the next three days. This is something I'm doing for you.""In our business, we have most of them have 50-50 plans...for that base salary, you get paid for waking up in the morning and doing all this stuff."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Tony Marino, Senior Advisor at Fiserv and executive coach to high-performing leaders. The discussion dives deep into the non-negotiable role of physical and mental wellness in leadership. From billion-dollar responsibilities to 30,000-person teams, Marino explains why sustaining peak performance demands the same discipline as elite athletes. Whether you're leading a company, a team, or just striving to stay on top of your game, this episode will challenge your excuses and inspire a new mindset.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:48] Big Leadership = Big Stress Leaders often oversee billions in revenue or tens of thousands of people—making personal wellness crucial.[00:01:32] Corporate Athletes are the New Standard Executive performance hinges on diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management[00:02:25] One or Two Hours a Day for You Marino's rule: If you're not carving out personal time daily, you're cheating yourself—and your team.[00:03:38] You Can't Lead Others If You're Off Balance When leaders neglect self-care, it shows up in decision-making, temperament, and team performance.[00:04:45] Success Requires Pattern RecognitionGreat leaders recognize the signs of burnout early and act fast to recalibrate.[00:05:34] "If I Just Had More Time" Is a TrapMost leaders don't lack knowledge—they lack deliberate time management.[00:06:23] Join the 6% ClubReferencing Michelle Rosen's book, Marino explains why only 6% stick with goals—and how to be one of them.[00:07:19] Discipline and Planning are EverythingPlan your day with intent. Success isn't about hustle; it's about preparation.QUOTES[00:01:58] “You need to be a corporate athlete if you're going to succeed in these big, tough jobs.”[00:02:25] “If you're not giving yourself one or two hours a day, you're cheating yourself.”[00:03:38] “You can't take care of your team if you can't take care of yourself.”[00:04:45] “The most successful people I've met know themselves really, really well.”[00:05:34] “The most common sentence I've heard from leaders is, ‘If I just had more time…'”[00:07:44] “The key is being deliberate and planful. That's how you become part of the 6% club.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/embracing-the-work-of-resilient-leadership-with-tony-marinoEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Matt Maloney, SVP of Global Sales at Fireblocks. The discussion dives deep into Matt's background in B2B sales, his journey into the world of cryptocurrency, and how Fireblocks is revolutionizing blockchain security. Matt shares insights on the importance of adaptable, coachable sales teams and the application of traditional sales disciplines to new and emerging markets. The conversation also touches on strategic decision-making when entering new markets, the relevance of a strong ideal customer profile, and how foundational sales processes like MEDDPICC contribute to scaling success. The episode concludes with a nod to the influential book 'Inside the Tornado' by Geoffrey Moore and its relevance to Fireblocks' strategy.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Matt Maloney:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-maloney-75698/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:13] Matt Maloney's Journey into Crypto[00:02:55] Understanding Fireblocks and Blockchain[00:06:36] The Role of Stablecoins[00:10:28] Security Challenges in Crypto[00:23:18] Adapting Traditional Sales Disciplines to Emerging Markets[00:34:44] Mitigating Risk in Emerging Markets[00:35:07] The Importance of Continuous Development[00:37:11] Building Trust and Credibility[00:38:07] Characteristics of Successful Salespeople[00:39:41] Company Responsibility in Employee Development[00:41:02] Aligning Company Goals with Sales Strategies[00:46:05] Avoiding Shiny Object Syndrome[00:48:36] The Role of Ideal Customer Profiles[00:49:43] Lessons from Mentorship and Experience[00:58:00] The Innovator's JourneyHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"Your job is to figure out hitting the number and making sure you're calibrating your resources, that you hit the number, because that's foundation to our jobs as sales leaders.""If you can be part of a disruptive movement... it could be game-changing.""You need people that are coachable that will take the time to listen and learn about what this market is."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Marcello Gallo, CRO at Sigma Computing, tackling one of the most critical and misunderstood phases of complex enterprise sales: procurement. They dissect the challenges of "separation of church and state," the pitfalls of weak champions, and the importance of owning the final stretch of the sales cycle with confidence, conviction, and clarity of value.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:25] Understand “Separation of Church and State”: Champions often step back during procurement. Plan for it, but don't surrender the deal.[00:01:33] “Participate in Your Own Rescue”: Teach champions to fight for the value they believe in—even through procurement.[00:03:15] Extreme Ownership is Non-Negotiable: Blaming procurement delays is a weak excuse. Elite sellers own the entire process.[00:04:00] Know the Negative Consequences: It's not just about the pain — it's about what happens if the problem doesn't get solved now.[00:05:54] True Champions Have Power and Influence: They actively sell on your behalf and are invested in your success. Anything less is not a real champion[00:06:38] Elite Sellers Multiply Champion Power: The best reps elevate their champions inside the account. It's not seller vs. buyer—it's a partnership.QUOTES[00:01:54] “You can't get alligator arms during procurement. If this is what you want delivered, you have to participate in your own rescue.”[00:03:35] “Extreme ownership means the deal is yours. No excuses. If procurement's dragging, you didn't plan it right.”[00:04:59] “Without understanding the negative consequences, you can't drive urgency — and urgency drives deals.”[00:05:54] “A true champion has power and influence, is actively selling on your behalf, and has a vested interest in your success.[00:07:02] “If a rep's saying, ‘It's us versus them,' you're in trouble. It means you never had a real champion to begin with.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/scaling-high-growth-companies-with-marcello-galloEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by George Mogannam, CRO at Celigo. George shares insights from his extensive experience in scaling high-growth businesses and leading world-class sales organizations. The discussion delves into the common challenges startups face as they grow, highlighting the importance of establishing the right hiring profiles, formal onboarding and training, key performance indicators (KPIs), and an operating rhythm to drive sustainable growth. The episode offers practical advice for CROs on building high-performing revenue teams, ensuring effective communication, and integrating sales processes across various departments to maintain a competitive edge in today's market. George emphasizes the need for continuous enablement, cultural cohesion, and the pivotal role of the CRO in fostering an accountable and disciplined sales environment.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about George Mogannam:https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgemogannam/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:05] The Importance of Process in Scaling Startups[00:02:40] Common Challenges in Sales Organizations[00:03:43] Hiring the Right Salespeople[00:04:46] The Role of Sales Enablement[00:06:53] Defining Sales Terminology[00:09:11] Adapting Hiring Profiles for Growth[00:23:44] Onboarding and Training New Hires[00:32:03] Leveraging Tools and Metrics for Success[00:37:59] Understanding the Five Quarter Report[00:40:06] Implementing Sales Disciplines Across Departments[00:44:15] The Role of the CRO in Organizational Growth[00:48:26] The Importance of Operating Rhythms[00:52:44] Challenges in Sales Processes and Technology[00:57:02] The Impact of Remote Work on Sales Teams[01:00:00] The Criticality of Efficient Hiring ProcessesHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"When you implement these disciplines, it helps pull the rest of the company along.""You must have the right people on the bus executing in the direction we need to go.""A common language and definitions become critical as part of the enablement.""Everybody loves to be in an environment where they can be led to a place they couldn't get to on their own.""Creating a hiring profile that evolves with the company is essential; what works at one stage may not work at another.""It's critical to have the tools and metrics in place to provide direction and identify gaps in the sales process."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with John Rowell, co-founder of Pinned Golf and a former enterprise sales leader, to explore the timeless value of preparation in both sales and entrepreneurship. Rowell breaks down how his enterprise sales discipline shaped his startup success, sharing tactical wisdom on transforming cold calls into warm connections, creating repeatable processes, and winning buyer trust from the very first interaction. Whether you're a rep, a sales leader, or a founder, this is a playbook for showing up like a pro.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:44] Preparation Builds Confidence: Rowell shares how structured pre-call prep creates clarity and control in high-stakes sales interactions.[00:01:06] Hypothesize Before You Call: Great reps make educated assumptions about the buyer's needs before they ever get on the phone.[00:02:21] Preparation Is the Message: How you prep shows who you are and how you'll show up for the customer.[00:02:57] Cold Calls Shouldn't Be Cold: Transform outreach by researching industries, personas, and proof points before dialing.[00:04:09] Sales Is a High-Performance Sport: Like elite athletes, the best reps obsessively prepare to perform at their peak.[00:05:31] Preparation Builds Trust Early: First impressions matter—showing up prepared signals reliability.[00:06:24] Presence Over Performance: When you're prepped, you can truly listen and be present instead of trying to sound “interesting.[00:07:29] Process Equals Speed: Rowell unpacks how process-driven sales teams outpace the competition by removing guesswork and bottlenecks[00:08:34] Apply Process to Entrepreneurship: From startup KPIs to sales funnels, the mindset of structure translates directly to building a business.QUOTES[00:00:44] “Process equals speed. If you can build what you're gonna do every day into a defined process, you're gonna move faster.”[00:01:46] “I saw 50-year-old President's Club winners still taking time to read 10-Ks before calls. That prep never stops being valuable.”[00:02:57] “They shouldn't be cold calls. They should be warm calls because you should figure out ways to make them warm.[00:04:09] “If you're an enterprise rep, that's your NFL. You should be prepping like Patrick Mahomes watches film.[00:05:55] “Preparation allows you to be present, not scrambling to sound interesting.[00:06:45] “When you're prepared, you're not performing. You're just being yourself—and that's when trust is built.[00:08:34] “Dialing in a process and measuring success—whether in sales or startups—gives you repeatable wins.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/pinned-golf-making-the-shift-from-sales-to-entrepreneurshipEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Tony Marino, a senior advisor and executive coach with a storied career as CHRO for major global companies like Fiserv. The discussion revolves around the critical aspects of corporate leadership, the parallels between athletics and business, and the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being for optimal performance. Marino introduces the concept of 'five-tool players' in a corporate context, emphasizing the need for well-rounded leaders proficient in six key areas: financial and business acumen, client focus, people and team leadership, risk and controls, operational excellence, and innovation. The episode also covers practical strategies for establishing priorities, key lessons from transformative sales effectiveness initiatives, and the impact of habits and routines on leadership success.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Anthony Marino:https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-s-marino-94a6476/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xHERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:59] Corporate Athlete: Balancing Leadership and Well-being[00:04:13] Transferable Lessons from Athletics to Business[00:06:31] The Importance of Physical and Mental Health for Leaders[00:09:56] Setting and Achieving Goals: The 6% Club[00:12:34] Prioritizing and Managing Time Effectively[00:28:11] Real-life Examples and Practical Advice[00:33:54] The Importance of Operating Rhythm in Corporations[00:35:43] Predictable Management Routines for Leaders[00:38:18] Understanding the Concept of Five Tool Players[00:40:17] Six Key Traits of Successful Leaders[00:47:49] The Role of Feedback and Coachability[00:51:07] Identifying Team Archetypes[00:59:36] The Impact of Sales Effectiveness on Company SuccessHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"The greatest leaders are well-rounded, like five tool players.""If you don't take care of yourself, you lose perspective.""The best leaders I've ever met are self-aware.""Every leader should evaluate all the activities on their desk regularly to ensure they are adding value.""Sales productivity should be the number one metric for any company."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Matt Nolan, CRO of Redwood Software, to discuss what it really takes to scale a revenue organization beyond the $200M mark. Matt shares what he's learned stepping into the CRO role—shifting from deal-maker to system-builder, navigating cultural integration post-acquisition, managing board dynamics, and building trust through authentic leadership. If you're a sales leader, aspiring CRO, or operating in a private equity-backed company, this candid conversation is loaded with actionable insights.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:30] The shift from deal involvement to systems thinking as a CRO[00:01:40] Navigating complexity: PLG, SLG, and assisted motions in one org[00:02:15] Tackling organizational friction points no one else can move[00:03:00] Building credibility with a board that has a different go-to-market background[00:03:45] The challenge of balancing learning vs. initiating change as a new leader[00:05:00] Why being authentically yourself is the best leadership strategy[00:06:15] How to build trust without gutting legacy teams[00:06:45] Culture wins: no account conflicts, cross-region harmony, and shared mission[00:07:15] Going from “best kept secret” to magic quadrant leaderQUOTES[00:01:45] “My job is to go turn all the ‘what's not working' into ‘what's working.'”[00:02:10] “There are some rocks in the business that only the CRO can move."[00:03:05] “You've got to earn trust to make big moves—especially when your vision differs from the board's.”[00:05:00] “The only way to do it is to be yourself—even if that means being more open than most."[00:06:50] “I'm proud of a very corny thing: no account conflict has ever escalated to me in three years.[00:07:00] “We were the best kept secret in software—now we're in the magic quadrant.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/navigating-the-cro-role-while-building-a-great-culture-with-matt-nolanEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDCCheck out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Marcello Gallo, Chief Revenue Officer at Sigma Computing. The discussion dives into Marcello's extensive experience in enterprise sales leadership, including his non-traditional path, lessons from leading roles at various companies, and the importance of structure, mentorship, and continuous learning. Marcello shares valuable insights on transitioning from technical roles to sales, territory management, and the significance of aligning with customer needs to drive value. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of having a growth mindset, understanding customer environments, and leveraging product-market fit for sustained success.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Marcello Gallo:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gallomarcello/Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:53] Marcello's Journey into Enterprise Sales[00:08:13] The Importance of Structure in Sales[00:28:37] Navigating Major Accounts and Complex Sales[00:34:32] Understanding the Champion's Role in Sales[00:35:15] Building Strong Relationships with Champions[00:37:59] The Importance of Predicting and Preparing for Objections[00:39:14] Role-Playing and Preparation Techniques[00:40:05] Leadership and Helping Teams Get Unstuck[00:42:03] Lessons from Climbing the Corporate Ladder[00:43:21] The Value of Enablement and Territory Management[00:46:20] Adapting to Market Changes and Customer Feedback[00:53:59] Choosing the Right Opportunities and Taking Risks[01:04:50] Sigma Computing's Growth and OpportunitiesHIGHLIGHT QUOTES“If you can't bet on yourself, who can you bet on?"“Knowledge is courage.”“You get delegated to those that you sound like.”“Hire the people commensurate to the territory that you have open.”“Don't confuse position with opportunity.”
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Jane Thompson of BigPanda to unpack the art and science of selling into strategic accounts. Jane shares hard-won wisdom on navigating multi-divisional enterprises, building champions across layers of influence, and translating technical capabilities into board-level business value. If you want to elevate from tactical selling to true strategic impact, this episode delivers the roadmap.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:45] Focus beyond standard research—find personal executive insights to connect meaningfully.[00:01:15] Strategic sellers must bridge technical solutions to business outcomes.[00:02:00] Map value by stakeholder: technical director, VP, CIO—tailor it to each.[00:03:30] Selling to multi-divisional organizations requires managing multiple champions, needs, and value props.[00:04:15] Ecosystems are interdependent—solutions impact multiple departments.[00:05:00] Use the “M and W Effect” to navigate accounts vertically and horizontally.[00:06:00] Prevent single-threading—schedule multiple meetings at once and communicate openly.QUOTES[00:01:20] “Anyone can go read a 10-K, but go find personal tidbits that help you build a champion at every level.”[00:01:55] “You have to translate what you do into business issues—or you're not going to be a good strategic account rep.”[00:02:40] “If you think in a strategic sense, mapping value by stakeholder becomes second nature.”[00:04:00] “It's a skill to unify multiple divisions with multiple stakeholders into a single ROI conversation.”[00:05:10] “If you're not moving up and down in the org chart, you won't make it in strategic accounts.”[00:06:05] “Be transparent—reach high and wide without being sneaky. It works if done right.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/selling-into-strategic-accounts-with-jane-thompsonEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: Revenue Builders Podcast, John Kaplan, John McMahon, Force Managementhttps://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Matt Nolan, Chief Revenue Officer at Redwood Software. Matt shares his extensive experience in developing global revenue strategies, scaling enterprise automation solutions, and transitioning from venture capital to private equity environments. The conversation covers key lessons such as the importance of culture, the significant role recruiting plays in a CRO's success, the complexities of managing a board, and strategies for building top-performing sales teams. Matt emphasizes the critical nature of hiring ahead, discipline in recruiting, the layered impact of having strong leaders, and creating a high-performance, team-based culture that can drive prolific growth. Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to build and sustain a winning sales organization.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Matt Nolan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewanolanhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/redwood-software/Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:02] Lessons from a First-Time CRO[00:03:47] Building and Maintaining Company Culture[00:04:45] Navigating Leadership During COVID-19[00:06:05] Managing the Board and Leadership Challenges[00:07:03] Scaling Revenue and Systems Thinking[00:10:15] Recruitment and Team Building Strategies[00:11:16] The Importance of Authentic Leadership?[00:15:21] Fostering a Team-Based Culture[00:20:39] Recruitment Pipeline and Talent Acquisition[00:21:30] The Relentless Pursuit of Top Talent[00:34:00] The Power of Networking and Recruiting[00:35:14] Building a Leadership Team[00:36:15] The Importance of Recruiting Top Talent[00:39:10] Sourcing and Recruiting Strategies[01:01:21] The Role of Culture in Building a DynastHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"Recruiting is the foundation and culture is what sustains you and allows you to win multiple championships.""Once you see the impact of having great people, you can't unsee it.""You can be bad at everything, but if you're great at recruiting, you can cover for a lot of sins.""Every word you say as a leader is internalized deeply by your team.""You've got to be relentless about recruiting, it can't just be something you do when there's an opening."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Bob Ranadli of FTV Capital to unpack the delicate dynamics between CROs, CEOs, and board members. From managing expectations to avoiding pitfalls of dysfunction, this conversation dives deep into how CROs can approach board interactions with strategy, self-awareness, and alignment. Perfect for revenue leaders who want to strengthen executive relationships and drive healthy boardroom collaboration.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:35] Understand the Board's Purpose: CROs must recognize the board's role in needs analysis and bringing strategic value—not just oversight[00:01:10] Diversify Board Experience: Great boards consist of varied backgrounds and expertise; avoid redundancy in experience sets[00:01:45] Root Cause vs. Surface Complaints: Before raising issues with the board, ensure the CRO and CEO have sought resolution together.[00:02:15] Bring Solutions, Not Just Problems: Leaders must shift from venting to proactive solution-building[00:02:50] Avoid Commiserating with Board Members: CROs should direct internal concerns to CEOs first, not the board—keep relationships clear and constructive.[00:03:30] Align Board Expertise with Department Needs: Strong boards mirror company functions, acting as mentors to department leaders when the CEO is confident and secure.QUOTES[00:00:55] "The board needs to do a needs analysis… making sure you don't have redundancy in experience is really important."[00:02:00] "If you've got a problem and you're not thinking about a solution, then you've got to look in the mirror."[00:02:50] "If you're bringing something to me that looks like you don't have a solution, you're just complaining."[00:03:50] "The really good CEOs bring in board members who can act as mentors aligned to each function.[00:04:15] "For that to work, the CEO must be very secure in their job."Listen to the full conversation through the link below. https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/understanding-the-nuances-of-the-cro-ceo-relationshipEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here: Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
The Idaho Commission on the Arts is a state agency committed to making the arts accessible to all Idahoans. Executive Director, Laura Curry, and Artist Services Director, John McMahon talked to us about the state of the arts in Idaho, what Arts Idaho does, how it is funded, and what the future holds. Arts Idaho: Inspiring, Educating, and Supporting Through the Arts Strengthening communities by connecting them through the power of the arts. Prioritizing arts education, ensuring creative opportunities for learners of all ages. Supporting individual artists in their growth and professional journey. For more information visit arts.idaho.gov. @idahocommissiononthearts
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Jane Thompson, Director of Strategic Accounts at Big Panda. They discuss the intricacies of managing strategic accounts in B2B sales. Highlights include essential characteristics for reps, such as thinking in terms of value, having confidence and courage, understanding the customer's organization, and translating technical capabilities into business outcomes. The conversation also covers the importance of internal support, effective compensation structures, and the critical timing for scaling accounts in startups. Jane shares her experiences and insights on what makes a successful strategic accounts manager, while the hosts emphasize the pitfalls of transitioning reps without the right skill set into strategic roles.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Jane Thompson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-thompson-5aa940/Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:58] Understanding Strategic Accounts[00:03:06] Navigating Organizational Structures[00:05:16] The Importance of Value in Sales[00:11:17] Characteristics of Successful Strategic Account Reps[00:21:30] Building Relationships and Trust[00:29:50] Challenges and Pitfalls in Strategic Account Management[00:31:20] Managing Strategic Accounts Effectively[00:32:33] Common Mistakes in Scaling Startups[00:33:13] Effective Strategies for Major Accounts[00:34:36] Challenges with Strategic Account Management[00:37:20] Organic Growth in Early-Stage Companies[00:39:19] The Importance of Strategic Reps[00:56:00] Compensation and Incentives for Strategic RepsHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"If you're curious, you know how to map very quickly; you have to know the top three value drivers.""You need people who can get others to want to, when they don't have to.""You can't put a tactical leader on top of a strategic account.""Most importantly is understanding the organization first and foremost. How is the company structured?""You need to start high and work your way down to find the power base."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Frederik Maris, CRO at Atoss Software SE. Frederik shares how he interviews, assesses, and hires elite enterprise sales talent by focusing on EQ, character, and curiosity over resumes alone. Learn the power of the ICE criteria and how seasoned leaders spot top performers by blending science, gut instinct, and situational awareness.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:00] The ICE criteria: Intelligence, Character, Coachability, and Experience—what it means and how to apply it in hiring[00:02:00] How “Spin Selling” still applies to modern interviews and what it reveals about candidates[00:03:00] Why understanding hiring criteria is a test of a rep's customer empathy[00:04:00] EQ as a deal accelerator—how top reps build champions both internally and externally[00:05:00] The role of self-awareness, curiosity, and integrity in elite salespeople[00:06:00] How to spot emotional intelligence in subtle cues during interviews[00:07:00] Why gut feel, not just metrics, is a critical part of hiring decisions[00:08:00] Frederik's favorite interview question that reveals a rep's self-awareness instantlyQUOTES[00:01:00] "If they don't ask what I'm looking for in this interview, how are they going to understand what a customer wants?"[00:04:00] "EQ is about the ability to build champions—internally and externally."[00:05:00] "I'm looking for people who do what's right for the customer, the partner, the company—and hopefully, the world."[00:06:00] "You can feel EQ—how they interact with the receptionist, how they carry warmth in a conversation."[00:08:00] "How do you think you're doing in this interview?" That one question shows me their self-awareness instantly."Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/training-your-teams-for-complex-enterprise-sales-with-frederik-marisEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook:https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by John Rowell, co-founder of Pinned Golf, about his transition from a successful career in enterprise sales to entrepreneurship. Rowell shares his invaluable experiences from working at EMC Dell Technologies and Lacework, highlighting the importance of process and preparation. He discusses how these skills translated into building a thriving startup, explains the significance of defining an ideal customer profile, and offers insights into the challenges and rewards of making the leap to start his own company. The episode also delves into Pinned Golf's innovative products, the dynamics of working with friends, and strategies for effective sales and management in both B2B and B2C environments.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESVisit Pinned Golf! Check out their products here: https://pinnedgolf.com/Connect with John Rowell:https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnerowell/Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:39] John Rowell's Career Journey at EMC and Lacework[00:05:21] Advice for BDRs and SDRs: Building Confidence and Authenticity[00:07:37] The Importance of Pre-Call Preparation[00:15:01] Process Equals Speed: Lessons from Lacework[00:19:23] Transitioning to Entrepreneurship: Founding Pinned Golf[00:25:19] Developing and Marketing Pinned Golf Products[00:31:36] The Caddy: Revolutionizing Golf Technology[00:34:17] Pre-Order and Market Gap[00:35:46] Finding the Ideal Customer Profile (ICP)[00:38:26] Distribution Strategies[00:41:14] Entrepreneurial Journey and Challenges[00:46:56] Manufacturing and Role Segregation[00:48:30] Partnership Dynamics and Decision Making[00:57:50] Sales and Growth Mindset[01:04:53] Product Customization and Corporate GiftsHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"Process equals speed.""If you're not prepared, you'll figure it out after the call, but then it's too late.""The best way, the best connection you can make is to give that person space to be able to articulate what their challenges or problems are.""If you can get the channel really working for you and selling on your behalf, you can touch so many more people.""You can have three guys in a boat, but if only one's rowing, it's definitely not gonna work."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Chris Vik, CRO at Leapwork, to discuss the critical role of pipeline generation (PG) in both sales and recruiting. Chris challenges the notion that PG is dead, emphasizing the relentless effort required from leaders to inspect, inspire, and engage their teams. He also highlights the importance of leaders taking ownership of recruitment rather than outsourcing it, ensuring they build high-performing teams. Tune in to learn why getting “in the pit” with your reps is essential and how to recruit top talent—even as a lesser-known company.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:00] Pipeline Generation Isn't Dead – Leaders must commit to driving PG consistently.[00:02:00] The Role of Leaders in PG – Inspiring and supporting reps is critical to success.[00:02:30] Getting ‘In the Pit' – Leading by example fosters accountability and growth[00:03:00] Recruiting as a Team Sport – Why leaders should be hands-on in hiring.[00:06:00] The Art of Recruiting Top Talent – Overcoming objections when hiring for a lesser-known company.QUOTES[00:01:00] “PG isn't dead—you just have to do it the right way.[00:02:00] “Your job as a leader is to help people get unstuck.”[00:02:30] “If you're not in the pit with your reps, how can you coach them?”[00:06:00] “Recruiting is a team sport—don't outsource your dream team.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/data-driven-decision-making-with-parm-uppalEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
My 1000 Hours Podcast covers the pioneer era of pro wrestling and presently we are going through my latest book DragonKingKarl's Pioneer Era Pro Wrestling Omnibus. Col. James H. McLaughlin rules the American wrestling landscape. John McMahon and Homer Lane are trooping across the country and pro wrestling is gain popularity from coast to coast. The rise of Prof. Thiebaud Bauer and Prof. William Miller and their brand of entertainment style wrestling is also sweeping the country, but the newspapers are starting to get weary of their antics. YOU CONTROL THIS SERIES! It will only run as long as it is supported. In order to get another hour of 1000 hours we need a new Patreon supporter at any level or a cash donation via the front page of WhenItWasCool.com to either PayPal or CashApp (Please put “1000” in the note). As soon as it is received, I will produce a new hour. Presently, we are funded up to hour 90.
Head Cases is the new book from acclaimed author John McMahon. Fans of Karen Slaughter's Will Trent, Criminal Minds, and Mick Herron's Slow Horses will devour this new series featuring an analytically brilliant FBI Agent, Gardner Camden, who has a blindness when it comes to interpersonal relationships. Couple that with a team of unusual agents assigned to a Patterns and Recognition Unit makes Head Cases a truly unique and fast paced read. McMahon's characters are richly drawn as they dive into a case where a presumed dead serial killer resurfaces. Strap in for a twsty ride. You'll want to grab this one before the sequel and the HBO series hits the air.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Bob Ranaldi, a seasoned global sales executive with over 20 years of experience. Bob shares insights on optimizing CRO-CEO relationships, emphasizing high communication, aligned goals, and data-driven decision-making. The discussion explores how to create a strong board, the importance of sales efficiency, and the need for CROs to own their numbers and impact the forecast immediately. Bob and the hosts provide valuable advice for sales leaders, highlighting the significance of understanding the company's ideal candidate profile, fostering a winning mindset, and balancing growth with EBITDA. They also delve into the nuances of maintaining effective communication, especially in post-COVID, remote work environments, and the critical role of board members in supporting various company disciplines.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Bob Ranaldi:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-ranaldi-54a46514/Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:57] The Importance of CRO-CEO Relationship[00:04:39] Effective Communication and Data-Driven Decisions[00:07:40] Balancing Growth and Efficiency in Private Equity[00:11:53] Sales Efficiency and Productivity Metrics[00:16:33] Navigating Challenges in Sales Leadership[00:29:10] The Role of Communication in Remote Work[00:32:50] Leadership Language and Mindset[00:33:28] Advice for First Board Meetings[00:34:45] Owning the Forecas[00:39:32] Building the Right Team[00:46:12] Navigating CEO and CRO Dynamics[00:51:06] Effective Board Member SelectionHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"You have to see yourself on the same level as the CEO. You're paid to express your opinion on what you think.""It's important to set the bar high, but it has to be an attainable goal to maintain team morale and drive performance.""The interaction verbally is the place to start. The face-to-face communication helps resolve disagreements and builds relationships.""Always put the company first. Your department and your role matter, but they come second to the company's success.""Understanding the current state and helping the team win early builds momentum and fosters team cohesion."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Parm Uppal, CRO at Benchling, to discuss the critical shift from measuring sales activities to tracking accomplishments. Parm shares insights on setting clear expectations for reps, training them for high-impact meetings, and aligning their daily actions with business outcomes. The conversation explores strategies for reaching economic buyers, adapting to shifting funding landscapes, and simplifying sales execution for maximum effectiveness.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:26] The power of simplifying expectations for sales reps.[00:01:19] Training reps for high-impact meetings to close deals.[00:02:13] Why accomplishments matter more than activity metrics.[00:03:16] Aligning rep performance with business goals using a proven framework.[00:04:52] Adapting to shifts in funding and decision-making authority.[00:05:45] Setting clear expectations: the three-to-four things reps must always know.[00:07:07] Keeping sales execution simple and focusing on small wins.QUOTES[00:01:45] “If we know these are the toughest meetings, we have a duty as leaders to be training reps for them.”[00:02:32] “If you got an EB meeting, chances are you already have a champion. To get a champion, you probably did proper discovery.”[00:04:07] “Are you the chief problem officer, or are you just running deals? Your sales strategy depends on how well you define the problem.”[00:05:45] “I want my reps to wake up and immediately know the three to four things I expect from them—without having to write them down.”[00:07:24] “We keep it simple: What's the biggest red flag in MEDDIC today, and who do we take the Three Whys to?”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/data-driven-decision-making-with-parm-uppalEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Frederik Maris, the Chief Revenue Officer at Atoss Software SE. Frederik shares his extensive experience in B2B sales leadership, offering insights on recruiting top talent, the importance of early career learning, and the critical role of first-line managers. The discussion delves into qualities to look for in sales reps, the significance of qualifying prospects, and how to instill a culture of continuous learning and accountability within sales teams. Frederik underscores the need for conscious competence in sales and leadership, and the value of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in driving success. This episode is packed with actionable advice for current and aspiring sales leaders.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Frederik Maris:https://www.linkedin.com/in/frederikmaris/Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:26] Early Lessons in Sales: Learning and Networking[00:03:48] The Importance of Qualification in Sales[00:04:39] Becoming Consciously Competent[00:06:13] Building a Strong Network and Recognizing Special Opportunities[00:08:32] The Key to Sales Success: Understanding Pain and Champions[00:09:43] Effective Discovery Process in Sales[00:12:22] The Role of CRO in Aligning Company and Sales Strategy[00:23:02] Knowledge, Skills, and Culture in Sales Organizations[00:33:36] Scaling Challenges in Sales Leadership[00:33:50] The Importance of First Deals[00:34:00] Understanding the Sales Cycle[00:34:15] Conscious Competence in Sales[00:34:39] The Role of Sales Managers[00:34:50] The Science Behind Sales[00:37:15] Champion Building and Sales Science[00:40:13] Recruiting Top Performing Reps[00:41:50] Qualities of Successful Salespeople[00:44:22] Testing for Emotional Intelligence[00:54:42] Why Sales Reps Fail[00:58:13] Accountability in Sales Leadership[01:02:20] The Journey of Sales SuccessHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:04:00] "It's incredibly important to qualify everything, from deals to recruits, and even why you are at the company."[00:09:25] "The more you understand the pain points, the better you can build a champion."[00:12:13] "Sales reps need to earn the right to ask questions by being well-prepared and differentiating themselves from others."[00:37:22] "If you don't understand the science behind what you're doing, you can't teach others or replicate success."[00:39:29] "Strong first-line managers who can coach and develop their teams are essential for scaling any sales organization."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Mike Earnest from Wiz to discuss the critical topic of retaining top sales talent. Mike shares his philosophy on building a culture of buy-in rather than compliance, the role of authenticity in leadership, and how sales leaders can help their teams see a clear future within the company. He also highlights the importance of transformational management, showing how investing in employees' growth leads to long-term loyalty.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:08] Understanding Employee Motivations – Retention starts with knowing what employees want to achieve both personally and professionally.[00:02:15] Creating a Culture of Buy-In vs. Compliance – Employees who believe in the process stay longer than those who are forced into it.[00:03:02] Transactional vs. Transformational Leadership – Developing employees and helping them grow outweighs short-term financial incentives.[00:03:50] Helping Employees See Their Future – Retention is at risk when employees cannot envision their future within the company.[00:04:12] Taking Ownership of Employee Development – Sales leaders, not just enablement teams, must actively guide career growth.QUOTES[00:01:55] “If you're authentic and genuinely care about your team, they're not going to leave. They won't chase a shiny object because they're already in one.”[00:02:37] “There's a difference between adhering to a sales process and wanting to adhere to a sales process because it adds value.”[00:03:02] “When you help someone develop skills they never thought they could master, they're not leaving for another $10,000.”[00:03:50] “One of a leader's greatest traits is helping people see themselves in the future.”[00:04:37] “Retention isn't just about the company's reputation—it's about whether employees see a clear future for themselves.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/revenue-retention-and-recruiting-with-mike-earnestEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, host John McMahon and John are joined by Christopher Vik, Chief Revenue Officer at Leapwork. Chris shares his journey through various sales leadership roles before delving into the state of pipeline generation today. He emphasizes the ongoing need for consistent pipeline generation, detailing how AI and shifting markets impact this critical activity. Through personal anecdotes, Chris outlines the five key components of building a robust pipeline generation culture. He discusses the intricacies of recruiting A-players, stressing the importance of preparation, values, and alignment with company needs. This episode provides a comprehensive look at refining both sales and recruitment processes to enable revenue expansion.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Christopher Vik:https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophervik/Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:00] Pipeline Generation: Is It Still Alive?[00:02:25] Building a Pipeline Generation Culture[00:04:01] The Five Mechanisms of Successful Reps[00:15:53] The Importance of Preparation in Pipeline Generation[00:24:26] Recruitment and Building a Dream Team[00:33:00] Leveraging AI and Tools for Pipeline Generation[00:35:01] Leveraging Thought Leaders for Sales[00:35:32] The House Party Analogy for Warm Introductions[00:38:21] Tailoring the Challenger Approach[00:43:30] Importance of In-Person Meetings[00:46:14] Creating an Invisible Fence in Sales[00:49:02] Connecting Systems for Sales Success[00:53:37] Recruiting the Right Sales Reps[01:03:27] Defining and Living by Your ValueHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:00] "Pipeline generation is not dead; it's about evolving the methods with new tools like AI."[00:03:33] "You can build a business on pipeline generation, but it has to be sustainable and strategic to avoid burnout."[00:16:56] "Preparation leads to attitude. If you're really prepared, you have a better attitude."[00:50:01] "Everyone loves to be led, provided you can take them to a place they can't get to on their own."[01:04:03] "As a leader, you need to know your values and articulate them; it helps build a strong, values-driven culture."
This BONUS episode is with Dr. John McMahon, the Director of Research and Education at Hawkin Dynamics.He is also an Honorary Associate Professor at the University of Salford, where he previously worked for more than a decade as a biomechanics researcher and educator. John has authored over 100 published journal articles and has presented his force assessment research at multiple international conferences spanning the fields of strength and conditioning, sports biomechanics, and sports science.John has been using sports technology to assess athletes since 2008 and he has personally coordinated and led Hawkin Dynamics force plate assessments at 25 professional football (soccer) and rugby clubs since 2021 alone. In 2023, John was awarded Educator of the Year by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and he currently serves on the NSCA Foundation's grant committee.___SCN Guide to using force plates and document to display data: https://strengthcoachnetwork.com/force-plate___Blog on how I got Hawkin Dynamics force plates for no cost to my athletic department: https://strengthcoachnetwork.com/blog/Hawkin_Dynamic_Force_Plates_SCN___Hawkin Dynamics Asymmetry Report: https://www.hawkindynamics.com/blog/asymmetry-report___John McMahon Researchgate Link: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/John-Mcmahon-8___Save on your re-certification to the NSCA and CSCCa with best price CEUs
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Patrick Ball, CRO of Crux Informatics, to explore the power of a well-defined sales process. Patrick shares how aligning with the buyer's journey improves win rates, eliminates wasted efforts, and sets the foundation for a strong business case. He also discusses key red flags to look for, the role of stakeholder engagement, and how to structure a sales motion that drives real value. If you're in B2B sales, you won't want to miss this deep dive into sales execution.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:37] 53% of buyers select a vendor based on the buying process, making structured engagement essential.[00:02:05] How a clearly defined sales process builds trust and credibility with prospects.[00:02:53] The importance of “go/no-go” checkpoints to prevent wasted time and stalled deals.[00:04:15] Red flags that indicate you're dealing with the wrong person in the buying process.[00:05:09] Why business value assessments (BVA) are critical to securing executive buy-in.[00:06:10] Understanding the complexity of selling a managed service vs. traditional SaaS.QUOTES[00:01:37] “53% of buyers choose a vendor based on the buying process. So why wouldn't we want to control that in the best possible way?”[00:02:53] “A well-structured sales process keeps both the vendor and the prospect in lockstep, ensuring we're not wasting time on deals that won't close.”[00:04:15] “If a prospect resists engaging in a business value assessment, it's often a sign you're talking to the wrong person.”[00:05:40] “Sales isn't just about a single point of contact—it's about engaging all the necessary stakeholders to drive a deal forward.”Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/complex-sales-critical-stages-in-a-customers-buying-processEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John are joined by Parm Uppal, the Chief Revenue Officer at Benchling. Parm shares his journey through various sales and executive roles, illustrating his approach to using data as a cornerstone for the development and coaching of sales teams. They delve into the intricacies of simplifying vast amounts of data to draw actionable insights and avoid overwhelming sales reps. The conversation also explores the importance of distinguishing between skill and knowledge issues among reps, hiring the right sales leaders for startups, and maintaining a clear focus on the ideal customer profile (ICP). Parm gives practical advice for newly appointed CROs, stressing the importance of a 90-day listening tour and aligning with cross-functional teams. Additionally, the discussion touches on the impact of AI tools in sales processes and the evolving role of data in modern sales strategies. This episode offers a treasure trove of insights and best practices for sales leaders at various stages of their careers.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Parm Uppal:https://www.linkedin.com/in/parmuppal/Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:05] Introducing Parm Uppal: Career Highlights[00:01:54] Using Data to Develop Sales Reps[00:03:45] Simplifying Data for Effective Coaching[00:05:09] Identifying and Solving Sales Problems[00:07:30] Leading Indicators and Coaching Strategies[00:10:36] Balancing Data and Observation in Sales[00:23:29] Adapting to Buyer Changes and Market Shifts[00:35:30] Building the CRO Scorecard[00:36:58] The Importance of a 90-Day Listening Tour[00:38:48] Commanding the Plan and Talent[00:41:08] Key Metrics for Success[00:48:15] Challenges in Recruiting and Retention[01:01:34] Emerging Tools in SalesHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:15] "You can't just walk into that conversation with an opinion because everybody's got an opinion."[00:02:37] "We have so much more data nowadays. If you don't simplify it, and you don't take a step back... it can overwhelm you."[00:19:55] "It's activity with accomplishment versus activity without purpose."[00:31:00] "You can't cookie-cutter sales methodologies from one context into another without understanding the unique market dynamics.
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with Steve Fitz, veteran sales leader and CRO of Modern Health, about the power of persistence in sales. We explore why embracing the grind is essential for long-term success, how rejection fuels growth, and why resilience separates top performers from the rest. This episode is packed with insights on mindset, career longevity, and why playing the long game always wins.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:26] Sales is a grind, and embracing it is key to long-term success.[00:01:04] The best sales reps don't fear rejection—they master the art of the “no” and find a way back.[00:01:47] Career success comes from commitment; jumping around too often limits long-term impact.[00:02:55] A grinder's mindset means working harder, more often, and at times others won't.[00:04:21] Employers value perseverance over job-hopping—grit signals trust and loyalty.[00:06:04] Running away from challenges stunts growth; learning is in the struggle.[00:07:02] Mindset shift: Change “I have to” into “I get to” for lasting motivation.QUOTES[00:01:04] “You gotta love rejection as a sales rep. You gotta love the art of ‘no' and then find a way back.”[00:02:55] “To be successful today, you have to do it better, more often, and at times others are unwilling to.”[00:06:04] “Grinding is learning. The struggle becomes your foundation—if you play it right.” [00:07:02] “The mindset shift is everything. It's not ‘I have to'—it's ‘I get to.'” – Steve FitzListen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/lessons-from-the-grind-tackling-complex-enterprise-salesEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan delve into the intricacies of recruitment and retention in B2B sales with Mike Earnest of Wiz. They discuss the critical importance of creating a strong recruitment culture, defining key traits for top recruits, and effective sourcing strategies. The conversation also covers how to manage and retain talent through authentic leadership, development opportunities, and consistent expectations. Earnest shares personal experiences and practical advice for sales leaders, making this episode a comprehensive guide for sustaining high-performing sales teams.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Mike Earnest:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-earnest-1a0a607/Read Force Management's Guide to Increasing Company Valuation: https://hubs.li/Q038n0jT0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:00:42] The Importance of Recruiting in Sales Leadership[00:01:59] Three Rules of Recruiting[00:03:08] Building a Culture of Promotion[00:08:56] Traits to Look for in New Recruits[00:15:57] Challenges and Strategies in Recruiting[00:32:44] Sourcing Top Talent[00:37:03] Defining the Ideal Candidate Profile[00:38:10] Proactive Pipeline Generation Strategies[00:39:23] Leveraging New Hires for Recruitment[00:42:08] Creative Recruitment Tactics[00:46:29] Retention Strategies for Top Talent[00:51:17] Challenges of Leadership Transitions[01:00:28] Supporting New ManagersHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:10] "You have to create a culture of recruiting. It's our pipeline generation as leaders."[00:03:09] "You better have a culture of promotion."[00:10:25] "It's doing the hard things when no one's watching." – Mike Earnest, defining grit.[00:11:47] "What I hear so many people say is they got grit and you think they got grit, but you guys are talking past each other."?[00:23:55] "A lot of times people say they want to do it, and then when they get up there and they don't have real persistence and determination to gain those new skills, everything kind of unravels."[00:24:20] "I used to tell people that forced management: You're absolutely going to fall on your face here. I promise you."
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan sit down with John Donnelly to discuss the critical intersection of value, technical expertise, and business outcomes in enterprise sales. They explore why many sales professionals struggle with discovery, how to shift from feature-based selling to value-based selling, and the role of champion building in complex deals. If you're in B2B sales or SaaS, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you close bigger deals and drive long-term customer success.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:52] The importance of active listening in sales conversations.[00:01:24] Why enterprise sales still leans on feature-selling despite the focus on value.[00:02:57] Answering the fundamental customer question: "Why do I care?"[00:04:07] The most common mistake salespeople make in the discovery phase.[00:06:08] The power of balancing technical expertise with business outcomes.QUOTES[00:00:52] "If the person you're speaking with doesn't feel heard, you're not going to get very far."[00:02:57] "Customers don't care about your features unless they understand how it affects them."[00:04:07] "Sales is not a box-checking process. Rushing through discovery leads to missed opportunities."[00:06:08] "The best salespeople stand at the intersection of technical expertise and business outcomes." – John McMahonListen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/no-shortcuts-accelerate-your-sales-process-with-john-donnellyEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/Force Management is hiring for a Sales Director. Apply here: https://hubs.li/Q02Zb8WG0Read Force Management's eBook: https://www.forcemanagement.com/roi-of-sales-messaging