Podcasts about sam taggart

In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Hunter Lee sits down with Mike Goldenstein, CRO of Roofle Technologies and a seasoned B2B sales veteran with over 30 years in the roofing industry. Mike shares his powerful journey from installer to contractor to corporate leader, offering insights into how sales culture—and customer expectations—have transformed in the age of internet transparency.Whether you're a seasoned rep or just getting started, this conversation will shift how you think about building trust at the door. Mike dives deep into what makes a high-performing sales team today: creativity, preparation, collaboration, and long-term thinking.You'll hear how Roofle is helping reps earn a seat at the kitchen table faster than ever—with instant quotes powered by aerial mapping and real-time pricing. But this episode isn't about pushing tech—it's about helping reps meet modern buyers where they are, without losing the personal touch that defines door-to-door sales.If you've ever lost a deal because you couldn't give a quote on the spot, or felt stuck when customer behavior changed, this episode is for you.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can I close more roofing deals by earning trust faster at the door?What does it take to succeed in B2B sales when knocking on businesses, not just homes?How do I stay motivated when I'm in a slump or missing my sales goals?What are the biggest mindset shifts reps must make to succeed in 2025 and beyond?How can tech like Roofle integrate with my existing door-to-door sales flow?Get in touch with Mike Goldenstein and Roofle:

This week we welcome back certified male genius and recent Gayle King interview subject Josh Gondelman (whose new special POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT is out now!) to talk about the non-thinking man's wig: the toupée. Plus: We coin a pretty major new mode of critique called One-Ball Criticism, which is taking literary magazines and academic jouirnals by storm. And no one is safe! GET TICKETS TO OUR SUMMER/FALL TOUR HERE: linktree.com/straightiolabCALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if your sales commissions could multiply while you sleep? The Cypher founders reveal how to turn active income into passive wealth without learning to trade.Garret Myers and Matt Fair are the co-founders of Cypher, an algorithmic trading platform born in the door-to-door sales world. In this episode, they sit down with Sam Taggart to talk real about money — how most reps blow it, why instant gratification kills long-term wealth, and what it actually means to be an investor (hint: it's not about being rich, it's about being free).You'll learn how Cypher helps salespeople invest smarter, the emotional traps that lead to poor financial decisions, and why even $5 can change your relationship with money. Whether you're in your first summer or leading a team of 100+, this episode breaks down how to make your money work harder than you do.In this conversation, Sam Taggart and the Cypher founders discuss:The psychology of instant gratification in sales and why most reps struggle to convert high income into long-term wealth.How Cypher uses algorithmic trading to help door-to-door professionals grow passive income without needing financial expertise.Why diversification matters—and how to think about liquidity, risk tolerance, and emotional discipline as part of a simple investment plan.The role of identity in wealth building—how shifting from “spender” to “investor” can change everything, even if you start with just $5.What most managers get wrong about keeping reps “broke” for motivation—and why mature, financially stable reps are actually better performers.How to avoid common investing mistakes, from FOMO-fueled crypto bets to trusting the wrong people—and how to protect yourself from tilt.

Many episodes of this podcast have shocked, appalled, and rattled us to our cores, but today comedian Zach Zimmerman talks to us about inspirational watch influencer Tim Hayden and it makes us question, well, everything! And just when you thought we couldn't be more disoriented, we discuss the pitfalls of deal chasing, newfound bisexuality, and whether or not someone should have self-respect in the entertainment industry. Bon appetit! GET TICKETS TO OUR SUMMER/FALL TOUR HERE: linktree.com/straightiolabCALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Danny Dimas—founder of GIG (Global Interactive Group)—shares his extraordinary journey from being $360,000 in debt to building a $50M international door-to-door sales business operating in Australia, New Zealand, the US, UK, and Ireland.Danny opens up about hitting rock bottom: broke, with a pregnant wife and toddler, he was days away from quitting sales for good. Instead, he chose to rebuild—one rep, one sale, one system at a time.You'll learn how he scaled GIG through simple yet powerful strategies: prioritizing people over profits, creating transparent growth paths, and training leaders who train others. His insights into field leadership, motivation through micro-goals, and the importance of reconnecting reps with their “why” are practical and deeply motivating.If you're starting from scratch or leading a team through challenges, this episode offers actionable tools to stay consistent, overcome doubt, and build a business that lasts. Danny also breaks down the similarities—and unique challenges—of selling door-to-door in Australia vs. the US, offering a global perspective every D2D leader should hear.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can I rebuild a D2D sales team after losing everything?What's the best way to keep new reps motivated and consistent?How do you build a duplicable leadership system in direct sales?What goals actually move struggling reps to take action?Is the Australian D2D market viable for products like solar or roofing?Get in touch with Danny Dimas:

How to Create Sales Carnivores & Scale Your Sales Team | Sam Taggart Want to build a sales team that hunts for business instead of waiting for leads? In this episode, Tim Brown sits down with Sam Taggart, founder of D2D Experts, to uncover what it takes to create true sales carnivores and why most roofing and home service businesses stay stuck.You'll learn:Why relying on marketing alone is dangerous for growthThe Carnivore vs. Herbivore vs. Omnivore sales modelHow to structure your team for hunters and closersWhy strong cultures require high initiation standardsThe DDT formula to double revenue: more reps, more conversations, higher close ratesPlus, Sam shares tips from his bestselling book Becoming a Sales Carnivore and reveals what's working NOW for roofing, solar, and home services sales teams.

George is processing some extra-juicy gossip and Sam is recovering from a molecular gastronomy experience, but the show must go on! We welcome the delightful Atsuko Okatsuka (currently on tour in a city near you) to the lab and try to convince her that her fascinating past as a cheerleader is Certified Straight. Or is actually gay? Well now we have a dialogue! Plus: Do different kinds of gay guys correspond to different water birds? GET TICKETS TO OUR SUMMER/FALL TOUR HERE: linktree.com/straightiolabCALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wesley Beary of Anchor speaks with host Sam Taggart about designing APIs with a particular emphasis on user experience. Wesley discusses what it means to be an “API connoisseur”— paying attention to what makes the APIs we consume enjoyable or frustrating and then taking those lessons and using them when we design our own APIs. Wesley and Sam also explore the many challenges developers face when designing APIs, such as coming up with good abstractions, testing, getting user feedback, documentation, security, and versioning. They address both CLI and web APIs. This episode is sponsored by Fly.io.

Today we are all winners because we have Survivor and Traitors legend Parvati Shallow on the pod to charm us into oblivion. We discuss her new book "Nice Girls Don't Win" and throughout the episode she proves why she's the master of deception. We also talk hunting, how George and Sam would do on Survivor, and we introduce a new short form web series that we think could change the media landscape forever. Good luck not being charmed - Parvati's been medically diagnosed with charisma. And no, there's no cure. GET TICKETS TO OUR SUMMER/FALL TOUR HERE: linktree.com/straightiolabCALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We know summer knocking season isn't easy.Long days. Hot weather. Lots of rejection. And it can feel like you're the only one out there grinding.So this week, we pulled together some of the most motivating and tactical moments from the best Golden Door Winner interviews to fire you up and help you finish strong.You'll hear from:

Today we welcome New York-based teen comedian Tessa Belle, who is our first ever guest to receive college credit for appearing on the pod! Before debuting her theory of why doing things is straight, Tessa walks us through some common misconceptions about men, women, mental health, the entertainment industry, relationships, and the concept of communication. Then we proceed to make some bold generalizations that are either really conservative or really progressive. Plus: Have you read the article? Have you listened to the song? GET TICKETS TO OUR SUMMER/FALL TOUR HERE: linktree.com/straightiolabCALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we're joined by James Hatfield: a father, a builder, and a door knocker who didn't wait for someone to hand him an opportunity. Armed with a clipboard, a ladder, and the drive to feed his family, James knocked his way into entrepreneurship, one “yes” at a time.What started as a way to keep food on the table turned into multiple service crews, a return to school to sharpen his business chops, and eventually, the launch of LiveSwitch. It's a video tech platform now trusted by major league stadiums, massive companies, and thousands of everyday service pros across the country.James didn't just build businesses. He built resilience, leadership, and legacy. And it all started on a doorstep.

In this highlight episode of Case Studies, we revisit powerful moments from Casey's conversation with Sam Taggart; top-performing door-to-door salesman, founder of The D2D Experts, and a driving force behind redefining leadership and self-investment in the sales world. From painting curbs as a teenager to becoming the number one rep out of 4,000 at Vivint, Sam's journey is a masterclass in grit, vision, and personal conviction. But this episode goes far beyond sales techniques—it dives into the deeper questions of fulfillment, identity, and purpose. Sam shares how chasing trophies eventually led to a more meaningful mission: uplifting an industry, building a values-driven community, and teaching others to believe in themselves through action and ownership. Whether he's talking about investing in coaching, navigating spiritual shifts, or leading with abundance, Sam challenges listeners to trust their intuition, invest in their growth, and lead with heart. These highlights are packed with insight for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone chasing excellence while staying grounded in what truly matters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back to bicoastal recordings and feeling MIXED about it. Luckily, this week we have Jenny Hagel on to make us feel calmer with her wise thoughts on following your heart, lesbian fashion influence, and what it means when you wear a dress that's just a long oxford shirt. Plus, we get into local college culture, a tortoise vs hare binary, and the psychology behind posting a picture of your kid with an emoji over their face. And remember: wear whatever you want, as long as it's purposeful!! GET TICKETS TO OUR SUMMER/FALL TOUR HERE: linktree.com/straightiolabCALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This one's for the builders. Brendan Quinlan started knocking doors nearly two decades ago, before iPads, before online training, before it was “cool.” He spent 13 years actively knocking, built his first team from the ground up in Florida, and got laughed out of every pest control office in Canada when he tried to bring D2D to his home country. Fast forward to today, and Brendan leads over 500 reps, operates in multiple Canadian cities, and just launched a new international team in Melbourne, Australia. His company now owns both the marketing and fulfillment side, making them the largest residential pest control provider in Canada, all launched in just a few short years. Oh, and now they're training reps to knock year-round by flipping seasons between hemispheres.

In the FINAL episode of StraightioLab recorded before Sam's wedding, we dive into the straightest topic of all time: Fantasy sports. "Returning champ" (phrase we just learned) Devon Walker (SNL, his brand new podcast MY FAVORITE LYRICS) joins us to answer such questions as: Is fantasy football kind of like Harry Potter fan fiction? Could a gay guy in New Jersey get into gambling? And finally: Is it gay or straight to opt out of things? GET TICKETS TO OUR SUMMER/FALL TOUR HERE: linktree.com/straightiolabCALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode of The D2D Podcast, Hunter Lee sits down with Judson Link, a top-tier roofing rep and rising real estate wholesaler, to share a raw and inspiring conversation about resilience, recovery, and mastering door-to-door sales.Judson opens up about his past struggles with addiction and how the door-to-door industry helped him rebuild his life. With over $2.6 million sold in his first year and a consistent $200K+ income—even during relapse cycles—he proves that grit, mentorship, and relentless action can transform lives. He's now building a real estate career while still closing million-dollar commercial roofing projects.This episode is packed with actionable advice for new or struggling reps, including how to overcome fear, avoid “commission breath,” and truly connect with homeowners. Judson emphasizes the importance of physical and mental preparation, tracking your daily door count, and leaning into discomfort to create long-term success. Whether you're battling personal demons or simply stuck in a sales slump, Judson's story will leave you motivated to push harder.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can I stay consistent and succeed even while battling personal challenges?What's the best mindset to avoid “commission breath” and build trust on the doors?How do you transition from residential to commercial sales—or even real estate?Why is personal health and preparation key to D2D success?What's the difference between managing a team and staying in your sales lane?

In this episode, Hunter Lee sits down with Chaguar from Luminate Solar to talk about how door-to-door sales helped him break out of his shell. Once a shy, reserved kid who barely spoke, Chaguar now leads full solar presentations with confidence. His story proves that you don't need to be a natural extrovert to succeed—you just need the grit to keep going.Chaguar shares how D2DU played a key role in accelerating his growth, how he transitioned from setter to closer, and why knocking with intention changed everything. He also breaks down the mental game—what it takes to stay focused, overcome rejection, and keep swinging that axe every day.If you're a new or struggling rep, this episode is for you. It's not just about technique—it's about mindset, consistency, and finding your own way to win on the doors.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can introverts succeed in D2D sales?What mindset helps reps handle daily rejection?Is full-cycle selling better than the setter-closer model?How does D2DU accelerate sales performance?What habits separate reps who burn out from those who grow?Connect with Chaguar 

To celebrate our genius friend Cole Escola's Tony win, we are re-releasing a classic episode from a little over a year ago. You can see Cole in OH, MARY! on Broadway through this Saturday June 21! CALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The D2D Podcast, we sit down with Timothy Veldman, Regional Manager at Firefly Solar and a top-performing sales leader in Canada's emerging solar industry. With 8+ years of D2D experience across telecom, fundraising, and solar — with references to the alarm industry — Tim shares his raw journey from a reluctant bricklayer to one of the most respected leaders in the space.Tim unpacks the power of resilience, the value of accurate expectations, and why work ethic and coachability matter more than natural sales “talent.” His insights are especially relevant for new or struggling reps, highlighting the daily grind required to build mastery — and how to fall in love with the process. He also gives us an inside look into the solar market in Canada, which is still in its early stages, and shares how it differs from the U.S. in both consumer mindset and commission structure.Whether you're looking to grow your team, sharpen your leadership, or know when it's time to step off the doors, Tim's story and strategies will leave you fired up to recommit to the craft of door-to-door.You'll find answers to key questions such as:What mindset do new D2D reps need to survive their first three weeks?How can leaders effectively coach underperformers while protecting their energy?What makes the Canadian solar market unique, and is it worth exploring?Why is coachability more important than charisma in D2D sales?How do you know when it's the right time to step off the doors as a leader?Get in touch with Tim Veldman:

Listen up! Our guest, Patti Harrison, is announcing the NEW and IMPROVED LGBTQ+ for Pride this year... yet at the same time, she is unable to speak for everyone. You know how it goes. Patti shares her vulnerable birth story and bring up the gay topic of "Online", tech problems, and rotten teeth. The ultimate question from this episode: Where does Patti, Sam, and George's friendship stand? CALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with Willian Soares, a Brazilian-born PDR rep who went from pushing dents as a technician to becoming one of the most driven members of the League Elite. Willian shares the gritty truth about building a career in door-to-door—without mentors, without perfect English, and without excuses.If you're a rep grinding through the early stages or stuck in a slump, this episode is a must. Willian didn't have the ideal environment, but he created one by relentlessly learning from online content, obsessing over his process, and surrounding himself with top performers in The League.

In this special episode, we're joined by Brett Haynes, the Head of Marketing at Door to Door Experts, for an inside look at the company and what it really takes to succeed in the door-to-door industry. With over five years in the company and over a decade in sales, Brett shares his unique perspective on what's been missing in the industry—and how Door to Door Experts is stepping up to fill the gap.You'll hear how the company is changing the game with D2DU 2.0, a revamped training system designed to give reps not just surface-level tactics but deep, step-by-step frameworks, mindsets, and techniques to truly master the craft. Brett explains how certification through D2DU isn't just about learning sales skills—it's about developing integrity and professionalism that can open doors (literally) across industries.

This call-in show has it all: Rural butch lesbians, a well-meaning bisexual woman who may have accidentally used a slur, intellectually curious gay guys, intellectually incurious ones, a game-changing new term to add to the lexicon, and a Marry-F*ck-Kill to end them all! CALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our next surprise call-in show and you just might hear your call on your favorite podcast. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to go from immigrant student juggling three jobs to building two of Canada's top-performing door-to-door teams—in under two years?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Minhajul Islam, VP of Talent Acquisition at NOC, who reveals how one summer knocking doors transformed his life—and how he's now helping others escape the 9-to-5 grind and build a career in D2D.You'll learn the intentional leadership philosophy Minhaj uses to recruit, train, and retain high-performing teams year-round, especially in the growing Canadian D2D market. From his rep onboarding flow to his unique culture strategy, this episode is packed with tactical gems and raw truth for reps and leaders alike.

Can you spot me, bro? Today we are joined by the People's Man Gianmarco Soresi to take on and ultimately SOLVE the masculinity crisis that is plaguing this once great nation. Plus: Which fast-casual bakery chain would each of the Haim sisters be? What musicals have mass appeal in 2025? Should theater camp be mandatory? And finally: Do retail workers have a moral responsibility to sexualize customers trying on clothes? Follow Gianmarco at @gianmarcosoresi on all platforms, and go see him on tour at a city near you!CALL US at 385-GAY-GUYS to leave questions and comments for our periodic surprise call-in shows. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We hit two milestones that less than 1% of podcasts ever reach: 

This week we are blessed to have Josh Sharp BACK on the pod. We come up with an amazing new tracklist of Kim Petras songs, explain what it means to "be philly", and unpack the band Phish with a LIVE fact checker in the room (because facts matter, y'all). Plus, Josh promotes his new off-broadway show "ta-da!" in a way that is so non-linear that even Greta Gerwig's ass will be sat. Speaking of, get tickets to Josh's show NOW at joshsharptada.com. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it really take to hit a Golden Door in alarms—not once, but three times? In this episode, we sit down with Sebastian Bower, an elite D2D veteran who's sold over 1,600 accounts since 2018 without ever jumping industries. He's proof that staying the course, sharpening your edge, and refusing to fold under pressure is the true path to elite performance.Sebastian's not selling solar, insurance, or grass. He's still in alarms—and still dominating. In fact, his biggest leap came when he stripped things down, went solo, and made it personal. He stopped working hard enough and started working to prove what he was capable of.

Have you been outside? There are men playing with Depression-era wooden toys—and it's all part of the masculinity crisis. Today we welcome our dear friend Liam Benzvi, whose amazing album ...AND HIS SPLASH BAND is out now, to chat all things yo-yos, cups and balls, and so much more. Plus: What is the most punk month? What does it mean to "have a thing"? And finally: Can gay guys get through Lizzo's Pass? Well it's not really that simple. Find Liam's music at liambenzvi.com!STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's talk about what it really takes to hit 1,000+ serviced accounts in one year. In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Jones, a 2024 Golden Door Award winner in pest control who sold 1,041 accounts in just 10 months—all while staying in one market and knocking every day. Her story is a masterclass in commitment, sacrifice, and mental discipline.Wendy didn't come out the gates swinging. In fact, she didn't close her first deal until day three. But she made a decision early on—to finish the summer no matter what. That mindset didn't just carry her through one tough summer—it became the engine for an entire year of production. She shares what it really felt like to miss family events, turn down international trips, and keep going even when sick. And the best part? She tells you how you can do it too.

Today we are putting on our public intellectual hats for Torrey Peters, author of "Detransition, Baby" and whose incredible new book "Stag Dance" is available now. She brings insights that will potentially take years to fully grasp. Things like how all marriages can be straight if the divorce takes long enough. Or how there's no such thing as "the big moment" despite what the mainstream media will try to tell you. Or (and this is potentially the most important) how there's a whole community of nasty discord users who have yet to be brought to light by the proper channels. Well that ends here and now, enjoy the most prestigious episode of podcasting ever made. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Sam Taggart sits down with Riley Traveller, CEO of Boundless, to unpack what it really takes to build and scale a winning door-to-door company—especially when things get messy.Riley has been in the game since the early SolarCity days. He opens up about the silent killer of scaling too fast, how abandoning their identity as creators nearly sank his business, and what turning things around really looked like: shutting down marketing spend, cutting overhead, and going back to the basics—door to door.You'll hear how Boundless went from bleeding $200k/month and $8M in debt to rebuilding profitably in under a year. Riley shares powerful insights for owners chasing growth, and why the illusion of control fades the bigger you scale. His biggest lesson? Influence beats control, but it also demands alignment, intention, and leadership at every level.This one's a masterclass in staying scrappy, sharpening your edge, and leading with real grit when the numbers don't look good.You'll find answers to key questions such as: 

In this episode, we sit down with Rubin Sarafinchan, a 2024 Golden Door Award winner who racked up over 300 closed deals in just eight months selling paintless dent repair (PDR)—all while building and leading a team of elite reps across storm-hit cities.Rubin didn't start with a sales script. He started with grit. From vacuum sales to leadership in insurance, and now dominating in hail damage repair, Rubin's journey is a masterclass in discipline, accountability, and owning your calendar.

Dreams really do come true as we finally welcome one of the most requested guests in StraightioLab herstory, the one and only Hari Nef! And she came PREPARED with a full list of topics, which we dissect one by one before landing on a winner. Questions include: Can male actors be actresses? Can drag brunch be a site of resistance? Are we "sat" for Ari Aster's latest? Should we FaceTime Lena Dunham? And are parents of LGBTQ+ children gagging from all the fabulosity? Sometimes! Plus: Hari debuts her impression of "Cher doing Joan Didion." STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes a top-performing rep truly unstoppable? Carlos Morales reveals how ‘simplify and execute' became his secret weapon—taking him from a failed first month to 29 deals in 30 days.Carlos Morales is the co-founder of Pacific United Power and Real Sales Dynamics, the largest YouTube and TikTok channel in solar sales. Known for his no-fluff, all-results training style, Carlos has closed over 1,000 deals and led high-performance sales blitzes across multiple states, generating hundreds of installs in just days. In this episode, Carlos unpacks his unexpected journey from child protective services investigator to solar industry leader—and how being coachable, consistent, and humble helped him master the art of door-to-door.In this conversation, Sam and Carlos discuss:Carlos's unexpected journey from child protective services investigator to one of the top solar sales leaders in the U.S.—and how he turned adversity into a superpower.The power of simplification in sales training and why most reps fail because they overcomplicate what should be instinctive.How Real Sales Dynamics became the largest solar sales channel.Why blitzes have become the future of solar sales, and how Carlos builds high-performing teams that generate over 100 installs in 10 days.The two traits that matter more than experience—and why ego is the enemy of performance.Why the top 1% in door-to-door sales are not only great closers, but genuinely enjoyable people to be around—and how that energy translates into results.- ⚡ Want to become a certified solar closer and level up your skills with real, tactical training? Join D2DU Solar — the most complete solar sales certification program in the industry. 

This week on the show we welcome Sam Taggart who has knocked on more doors than most people open in a lifetime. In this high-energy episode, the CEO of D2D Experts and Founder of D2DCON dives into his journey of hustle, heart, and hard-hitting sales lessons. Learn how Sam went from door-to-door rookie to one of the most influential voices in the direct sales industry — sharing stages with legends like John Maxwell, Jordan Peterson, and Eric Thomas. Whether you're in sales or just love a good underdog story, this episode will leave you inspired to knock harder and dream bigger.

If you're serious about leveling up in door-to-door, this episode is a must-listen. Zak Kornfeld, a 2023 Golden Door winner, went from living out of a tent on Israeli beaches to closing $654,000 in four months—and helping his rookie-heavy team hit $8 million in sales​.Zak doesn't sugarcoat it—this game is hard. But he breaks down what truly separates average reps from Golden Door earners. It's not just hustle—it's how you prepare in the off-season, how real you show up at the doors, and how you stay mentally locked in from 1 to 9 p.m.

It’s Public Intellectual Day at StraightioLab HQ as we welcome The New Yorker’s Doreen St. Félix to the lab to talk about, quite simply, EVERYTHING: the semiotics of handbags, Lizzo’s Pass, the many of Joan Didion, and of course the state of religion in the United States of America. StraightioLab: Live! at the Bell House: https://concerts.livenation.com/straightiolab-live-brooklyn-new-york-04-16-2025/event/3000626340673C34STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a sales carnivore meets a heart-led closer? Jason Marc Campbell joins Sam Taggart for a conversation that challenges everything you think you know about selling.Jason Marc Campbell is the author of Selling with Love and host of the globally recognized Selling with Love Podcast. He's spoken on stages alongside Gary Vee and Vishen Lakhiani, led million-dollar launches at Mindvalley, and coached thousands on how to sell without losing your soul.In this episode, Sam and Jason explore the mindset shift that turns reluctant salespeople into powerful communicators, the unexpected connection between love and closing, and the long-term strategy that most high performers overlook.In this conversation, Sam and Jason discuss:Why sales reluctance is hurting good businesses—and how embracing the right mindset can transform your approach to selling.The early experiences that shaped Jason's philosophy of “selling with love,” including one surprising door-to-door story that changed everything.How long-term thinking in sales creates more than revenue—it builds trust, reputation, and a loyal customer base.The dangers of undertrained salespeople and why good products often get overshadowed by louder, less ethical competition.How personal growth, mindset work, and self-worth are directly linked to sales performance—and what happens when you finally invest in yourself.Why great salespeople lead with empathy, ask better questions, and create impact beyond the transaction. 

What does it take for a first-year rep to close over $670K in pest control and walk away with a Golden Door Award?In this episode, we sit down with Brannock Gill, a 21-year-old rookie who refused to play small. From a rough start filled with cancels to redefining his own limits, Brannock shares what really shifted his trajectory—and why he stayed in the fight long after most reps went home.But here's the thing: it's not just about talent. It's about mindset, strategy, and who you surround yourself with.

Today we have comedian Ali Macofsky on to discuss the controversies surrounding today's American Royalty. That's right, the YouTube personalities. We ask if Hawk Tuah is innocent, figure out what's going on emotionally with the gay barstool fans, and we discover together what Brianna Chickenfry's whole deal is. And we dream of a future where maybe celebrities are so small that they're just random people on the street. Let's go girls! StraightioLab: Live! at the Bell House: https://concerts.livenation.com/straightiolab-live-brooklyn-new-york-04-16-2025/event/3000626340673C34STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're growing a home service business and still feel like your finances are a mystery… this episode is for you.Guest host Nate Hall sits down with Kurt Denninghoff, founder of Pivotl and a former D2D rep who went from knocking doors to leading a game-changing finance team. Kurt breaks down the hidden money leaks that most service-based businesses deal with—and how to fix them before they crush your growth.You'll walk away with hard-hitting takeaways about managing overhead, optimizing compensation plans, and using real financial data to make decisions like a CEO—not just a top closer.Whether you're running a lean $1M business or aiming to sell your company one day, this episode gives you a roadmap to move from chaos to clarity—and from hustle to legacy.You'll Find Answers to Key Questions Such As: 

What if you could close over $1.3 million in just three months? In this episode of the Golden Door Winners Series, we sit down with Hunter Wilson from Legacy Windows—who did just that. Hunter's journey from underperforming setter to high-level closer and market owner is full of game-changing mindset shifts and tactical gems that every D2D rep needs to hear.

It is once again time to answer some calls from the most important people on the planet, our beloved listeners. And we'll let you in on a little secret: a whole additional hour of calls is already up on Patreon! You can always leave us a message at 385-GAY-GUYS, and you just might hear your voice on your favorite podcast.Tickets to George's special taping: https://www.slipperroom.com/event-details/guest-event-foxglove-presents-george-civeris-1 StraightioLab: Live! at the Bell House: https://concerts.livenation.com/straightiolab-live-brooklyn-new-york-04-16-2025/event/3000626340673C34STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens after the install?In this episode of The D2D Podcast, guest host Nate sits down with Hung Nguyen, co-founder of Detach Reset Solar, to explore a side of the solar industry that most reps and roofing companies overlook—until it's too late.Hung shares the behind-the-scenes of building one of the fastest-growing solar service companies in the U.S. and why roofers, installers, and sales pros need to rethink how they handle post-install maintenance, detaches, resets, and more. From unexpected risks to emerging revenue streams, this conversation will open your eyes to an entire business model that's been hiding in plain sight.Whether you're scaling your company or just starting out in solar or roofing, this episode is packed with hard-earned insights you won't want to miss.You'll Find Answers to Key Questions Such As:

This week we have comedian and paranormal expert Roz Hernandez on the podcast to talk about our galactic neighbors who refuse to introduce themselves formally: UFO's. Why do they only go to rural areas? What's with all the probing? And what the hell are crop circles? Plus, we invent a new line of clothes for Everlane, discuss the difference between transitioned and transitioning lenses, and make a connection about magazines that may leave you stunned. Catch Roz Hernandez on Tour "Roz Hernandez does Comedy in a Gay Bar?!"Get your tickets here: https://www.rozhernandeztour.com/tourdatesSTRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Richard Perez returns to the podcast to talk about the topic of Toys, which is actually very personal to all of us because we actually played with toys when we were children. Today we're asking what happens when a boy likes a girl toy? What about when a boy just straight up likes trucks? And are some toys worth nearly dying for? Yes! Plus we talk bombing, how any movie that is ever made is a miracle, and we introduce over three new spinoff podcasts. Listen to this ep and then go see Richard on tour this spring! STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five years ago, comedian, writer, and actress Amy Zimmer (Stress Positions, Problemista) first joined us to discuss the premiere of recording artist Lady Gaga's single "Rain on Me." Today she returns to the lab on account of the release of the album MAYHEM. All of it is addressed. STRAIGHTIOLAB MERCH: cottonbureau.com/people/straightiolab SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON at patreon.com/straightiolab for bonus episodes twice a month and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Boys talk to GEORGE CIVERIS and SAM TAGGART from the podcast StraightioLab about their Super Bowl cooldown party snacks. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.