Podcasts about sam taggart

In this episode, we sit down with James Fraser, Canada's first Pest Golden Door Award winner, Regional Manager at Avayda Pest Control, and a featured speaker at D2DCon Canada. His story resonates with new and struggling reps: early setbacks, a brutal first stretch in a new industry, and the decision to stop blaming externals and fully commit. The turnaround started when he chose to “keep the main thing the main thing”  and time on doors and stack consistent inputs every day. You'll hear how Fraser reframed his season, worked the hours, and finished strong, then doubled down on a repeatable system built on high-quality activity and focused execution.James also breaks down the input metrics that actually move the needle: 50+ meaningful conversations a day, knocking during the best hours, and blocking out distractions that feel productive but don't create revenue. He underscores the value of mentorship and surrounding yourself with high-standard operators who compress your learning curve. Finally, for reps trending toward leadership, he shares why recruiting raises your own standards, accelerates skill development, and multiplies impact without giving away all the playbook. Expect practical mindsets and simple behaviors you can apply this week to build momentum and confidence on the doors.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can a new rep bounce back from a rough start without overhauling the whole script?What daily input targets (talks, hours, windows) matter most for consistent production?How do I avoid “productive” distractions and keep time on doors the priority?Why does mentorship shorten the path to results, and how do I plug into it fast?As a budding leader, how does recruiting make me a better seller and manager?Get in touch with James Fraser: Instagram: @jblades_11Thank you for listening! Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to The D2D Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. You may also watch this podcast on YouTube!You may also follow Sam Taggart on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more nuggets on D2D and Sales Tips.

Kay Poyer has lived many lives — goth club regular, antique store worker, Substack diva — and it's all been leading to this: her debut on the gay podcast StraightioLab. We chat about the differences between straight and gay hookup culture, between millennials and Gen Z, between the internet and real life, and of course between people who are annoying and people who are normal! 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, Hunter Lee sits down with industry veteran Tom Karren, Founder and Partner of Insight Pest Solutions, Vantage Marketing, and Aveyo Solar. With more than 25 years in the door-to-door world, Tom has built, scaled, and sold companies while mentoring over 10,000 sales reps and generating more than $1 billion in contracts.From his humble beginnings in Alberta, Canada, Tom quickly learned that betting on yourself can unlock opportunities far beyond expectations. His journey took him from knocking doors in small towns to running multi-million-dollar organizations across North America. Along the way, he's weathered acquisitions, economic downturns, and shifting markets all while building one of the most dynamic sales networks in the industry.For new and struggling reps, Tom's story highlights the mindset and habits required to win: resilience, consistency, and a willingness to go all in on yourself. He emphasizes that while technology, competition, and industry trends evolve, the fundamentals of door-to-door remain the same: hard work and discipline still drive success.As he prepares to lead a workshop at D2DCon Canada 2025, Tom reflects on his favorite seasons of growth, the partners who shaped his path, and the importance of enjoying the journey rather than chasing a finish line. His insights will inspire anyone who wants to build not just a sales career, but a lasting legacy.You'll find answers to key questions such as:What lessons can new reps learn from Tom's 25-year journey in door-to-door sales?How do you transition from being a top rep to becoming a successful business operator?Why is “betting on yourself” a critical mindset for D2D sales reps?What common pitfalls cause early entrepreneurs in D2D to fail and how can you avoid them?How can Canadian reps and teams thrive in a market that's still growing fast?Get in touch with Tom Karren: Instagram: @tom.karrenIf you want to learn and connect with Tom Karren alongside more of the top names in the industry, don't miss his appearance at D2DCon Canada | Sept 27–28, 2025, in Calgary. Grab your tickets at https://d2dcon.com/canada/Thank you for listening! Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to The D2D Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. You may also watch this podcast on YouTube!You may also follow Sam Taggart on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more nuggets on D2D and Sales Tips.

If you want to learn and connect with Jordan Morales — alongside more of the top names in the industry — don't miss his appearance at D2DCon Canada | Sept 27–28, 2025, in Calgary. Grab your tickets at https://d2dcon.com/canada/In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Hunter Lee sits down with Jordan Morales, Vice President of Sales at KNOK, co-founder of JuSo Beverages, and a featured speaker at D2DCon Canada. With more than 11 years in the industry, Jordan has experienced everything from freezing Canadian streets as a rookie rep to scaling teams of hundreds across multiple regions.For new and struggling reps, Jordan's journey is a reminder that success doesn't come overnight. He opens up about the grind of his early weeks, the mindset shifts that kept him from quitting, and the role of mentorship in shaping his path. Listeners will hear how the same door-to-door skills that built his sales career now fuel his entrepreneurial ventures in beverages and software.Jordan also shares insights on leadership—why fulfillment comes from watching others grow, how systems create scalable results, and why truly knowing your reps matters more than flashy incentives. For anyone looking to stay the course, build lasting resilience, and see beyond just knocking doors, this conversation is packed with lessons that apply both on the streets and in life.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can new reps push through the first tough weeks without quitting?What recruiting and training process helps create lasting teams?How do door-to-door skills translate into launching other businesses?What leadership systems drive growth when managing managers?Why is fulfillment such an important part of long-term success in sales?Get in touch with Jordan MoralesInstagram: @jordan.moralesThank you for listening! Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to The D2D Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. You may also watch this podcast on YouTube!You may also follow Sam Taggart on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more nuggets on D2D and Sales Tips.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Sam Taggart—founder of Door to Door Experts. Sam shares his journey from hustling magazines as a kid to building the largest direct sales training platform in the country. We dive into the realities of door-to-door sales, the mindset that separates top performers from the rest, and how sales can be a powerful path to freedom, wealth, and personal growth. Sam also opens up about spiritual awakenings, lessons from failure, the discipline of wealth creation, and why integrity is the ultimate sales skill. Whether you're in sales, leadership, or just chasing growth, this episode delivers both tactical nuggets and deep perspectives on success. Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Introduction to Sam Taggart & his background 02:30 – Early start in door-to-door and career evolution 05:00 – From sales rep to building a coaching empire 11:00 – Freedom and opportunity in direct sales 13:30 – Wealth creation strategies and financial discipline 20:00 – Lessons from family, money, and real estate 22:00 – Spiritual awakenings and personal growth in sales 25:00 – Seasons of life and business intensity 27:30 – Spirituality vs financial success 30:00 – Plant medicine experiences and lessons learned 36:00 – Mindset vs skillset in sales success 39:30 – The power of integrity and accountability 46:00 – Investing in yourself: masterminds, mentors, and ROI 50:00 – Sales, recruiting, and leadership tactics Subscribe to the podcast for more conversations with top performers, share this episode with a friend in sales or entrepreneurship, and leave us a rating and review—it helps us grow and bring more incredible guests to the show. And don't forget to connect with Sam Taggart and explore the resources at Door to Door Experts. Connect with Sam Taggert and Door to Door Experts:  https://www.instagram.com/thesamtaggart/ https://thed2dexperts.com/ #SalesTraining #DoorToDoorSales #EntrepreneurMindset #SamTaggart #DirectSales #LeadershipGrowth #SalesCoaching #PersonalGrowthJourney #PodcastForEntrepreneurs

New Season Starts Now! And we're kicking it off with a pillowy soft launch where George and Sam catch up on all the most pressing issues. Issues like: Are pop stars getting shorter? Is gay sluttiness supposed to stay in the closet? And do we need to create new clothes for men? Get ready to get DEEP into the psyche of two gay guys in horrible moods and kick off the new season with a commitment to truth (which is beauty btw). 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.

Learn from Danny Kerr and other top industry leaders LIVE at D2DCon Canada | Sept 27–28, 2025, in Calgary. Tickets available at https://d2dcon.com/canada/ In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Hunter Lee sits down with Danny Kerr, Co-Founder and CRO of Breakthrough Academy (BTA). Danny's journey from running a small painting company at 18 to coaching over 400 contractors across North America is packed with lessons for anyone trying to build a sustainable career in door-to-door sales.Danny shares how overcoming dyslexia, personal loss, and early entrepreneurial struggles shaped his passion for creating systems that help contractors reclaim their time, profit, and lifestyle. He explains why most sales reps and owners burn out when they don't shift from “doing the work” to “leading the people” and building structures that scale. His insights on financial controls, organizational design, and connecting every part of the business into one machine are game-changing for new and struggling D2D reps looking to level up.You'll learn why the difference between overwhelm and underwhelm matters, why growth without systems kills businesses, and how to avoid becoming “trapped” by your own success. Danny also previews his upcoming workshop at D2DCon Canada, where he'll guide owners and leaders through building infrastructure that drives long-term growth.If you're ready to stop guessing, start leading, and build a career that lasts, this is an episode you don't want to miss.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can new D2D reps avoid burnout and build sustainable habits early in their careers?What are financial controls and why are they critical for scaling door-to-door sales businesses?How can overwhelmed sales leaders transition into effective business owners and team builders?What lessons from franchising apply directly to independent sales reps and small business owners?Why do small tweaks in your sales process lead to big performance gains over time?Connect with Danny KerrSystems = freedom. Get free planning tools, hiring docs, and training checklists here: https://trybta.com/D2DPodWebsite: btacademy.comInstagram: @btacademyThank you for listening! Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to The D2D Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. You may also watch this podcast on YouTube!You may also follow Sam Taggart on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more nuggets on D2D and Sales Tips.

If you want to learn and connect with Randy Dyck — alongside more of the top names in the industry — don't miss his appearance at D2DCon Canada | Sept 27–28, 2025, in Calgary. Grab your tickets at https://d2dcon.com/canada/In this episode of The D2D Podcast, host Hunter Lee sits down with Randy Dyck, one of the featured speakers at D2DCon Canada. With over 30 years in real estate, more than 7,000 homes sold, and a network of 650+ legacy partners worldwide, Randy has built a reputation as one of the most respected leaders in the industry.This conversation isn't about real estate alone—it's about what every new or struggling door-to-door rep can apply to succeed. Randy shares powerful principles on how to shift from chasing prospects to becoming the chosen one clients seek out. He explains why communication, marketing, and database control are the pillars of sales success, and how personal adversity can be turned into a superpower in your career.If you're looking for practical skills, fresh perspective, and the mindset needed to thrive in D2D sales, this is an episode you don't want to miss.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How do you position yourself as the “chosen” salesperson instead of chasing prospects?What are the five client pain types and how do you unlock their trust quickly?Why are communication, marketing, and database management the top skills for sales success?How can reps turn personal adversity into a sales superpower?What does it mean to build wealth while living fully and leading a life of significance?Get in touch with Randy Dyck:

Daniel Deogun and Dan Bergh Johnsson -- two of the co-authors of the book, Secure by Design -- discuss the intersection of good software design and security with host Sam Taggart. They describe how following certain software design principles can help developers create secure software without needing to become security experts. They talked about how this is the continuation of developers taking on more responsibilities: Agile asked developers to become responsible for testing their code. DevOps asked developers to work together with operations in deploying their code. Secure by Design asks developers to incorporate security into their designs. Brought to you by IEEE Computer Society and IEEE Software magazine.

If you want to learn and connect with Jason Staiger — alongside more of the top names in the industry — don't miss his appearance at D2DCon Canada | Sept 27–28, 2025, in Calgary. Grab your tickets at https://d2dcon.com/canada/ In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Jason Staiger, Managing Partner of Legacy Marketing and featured speaker at D2DCon Canada, shares how he has built one of the strongest door-to-door organizations in Canada across two industries: pest control and smart home security. With over 150 active reps and five Golden Door Award winners in just five years, Jason's story is a blueprint for new and struggling reps looking to level up.Jason opens up about his journey from competitive soccer to becoming the top rookie at Vivint, to eventually launching Legacy Marketing after the closure of Vivint Canada. He reveals how setbacks became fuel for building a people-first organization rooted in culture, recruiting, and leadership systems that transform reps into leaders and leaders into owners.This conversation is full of actionable insights for anyone in door-to-door sales. Jason explains why focusing on inputs (doors knocked, people talked to) is critical, how to coach reps out of slumps using simple daily practices, and why loyalty and culture matter more than flashy recruiting tactics. For Jason, success in sales comes down to three things: work ethic, coachability, and mindset.Whether you're just starting out or managing a team, this episode provides practical strategies for building resilience, scaling teams, and leading with purpose. Jason's emphasis on culture-driven growth and long-term leadership development is a must-hear for reps ready to build something that lasts.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can new reps overcome slumps and build daily habits that drive results?What are the three traits Jason looks for when recruiting sales reps?How can leaders motivate their teams beyond money?Why is culture the foundation of long-term success in D2D sales?What practical systems help turn reps into leaders and partners?Connect with Jason Staiger & Legacy Marketing:Personal IG: @jason_staigerWebsite: LegacyMarketing.ca

In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Hunter Lee sits down with Jon Howkins — entrepreneur, sales coach, author of F$CK The 9–5, and featured speaker at D2DCon Canada. With over a million dollars earned in his door-to-door career across Canada, the U.S., and even New Zealand, Jon has transformed his sales expertise into powerful lessons for commission earners everywhere.Jon reveals how his Milestone Mapping System helps reps break impossible goals into achievable steps while reinforcing habits, rewards, and accountability that fuel long-term success. Beyond sales tactics, Jon emphasizes the deeper identity shifts reps must make to unlock growth — from aligning values with daily actions to recommitting to integrity and building habits that actually stick.New or struggling reps will find Jon's insights especially valuable. He shares how personal development, mindset management, and accountability aren't “extras” in sales — they are the foundation of sustainable performance. Listeners will walk away with practical frameworks for self-leadership, habit-building, and creating a sales identity that attracts consistent results.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can milestone mapping help me hit ambitious sales goals without burning out?What daily habits separate top reps from average door-to-door salespeople?How can identity shifts improve retention, consistency, and results in D2D sales?Why is integrity essential for closing deals and building trust in the field?What role does accountability play in keeping reps on track all summer long?Get in touch with Jon Howkins:

Demi Lovato. Labubus. Terry Gross. Recency bias. The state of America men's bushes. Michael Barbaro. Put your headphones ON, Addison Rae, because it's time for another call-in episode. 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, Sam Taggart sits down with Jess Reagan, co-founder and CRO of Paiv, to discuss how AI and smarter sales operations are transforming the door-to-door game—especially for roofing and home service businesses.With nearly two decades of experience in D2D, Jess shares his journey from pest control rep to revenue leader and co-founder, and breaks down how sales ops is often the most overlooked growth lever in small to mid-sized teams. If you're a company owner or rep looking to level up your results, this conversation is packed with powerful takeaways.Jess explains how streamlining your tech stack, removing friction for reps, and creating a culture of accountability can 10x your performance—without hiring more people. He also shares how Paiv is redefining the field sales toolkit by consolidating AI tools into one frictionless platform that supports reps from first knock to closed deal (and beyond).Whether you're a solo operator or leading a 50-person team, this episode will challenge you to think bigger about what's possible when sales, ops, and culture align.You'll find answers to key questions such as:What does “sales ops” actually mean for a D2D company?How can AI tools reduce friction and increase rep performance in home services?What systems help roofing and solar companies scale faster without hiring more reps?Why do most sales tech implementations fail—and how can leaders fix it?What does it really take to keep reps accountable and motivated in a modern D2D team?Get in touch with Jess Reagan and Paiv 

Move over, Reese Witherspoon cause there's a new book club in town. That's right, we're kicking off the inaugural StraightioLab Book Club with Jo Firestone's new novel "Murder On Sex Island." We talk about what it means to write a book about sex that has no sex, how a very special "calendar style" edition came to be, and figure out how much of a book you can just riff. Plus, we find out if past lives are real. 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, 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: 

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.

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.

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.