How to Succeed Podcast

• How To Succeed at Shifting Your Sales Performance Into High Gear

  Podcast Summary Jennifer Cobb, the trailblazing NASCAR driver and entrepreneur, takes the wheel in our latest episode to share her extraordinary journey through the fast lanes of racing and business. Join us as Jennifer recounts her impressive achievements, like her standout sixth-place finish at Daytona, and navigates the challenges of a male-dominated sport without the cushion of major financial sponsorships. She opens up about the pivotal role her family, particularly her late mother, had in her career, and how she managed to balance racing with life's practicalities, such as securing health insurance and buying a home. Now, Jennifer channels her unstoppable drive into a new role at Fastener Supply Company, where her story continues to inspire. Listeners will discover the profound parallels between the relentless world of racing and the high-stakes field of sales. From overcoming initial fear and intimidation to developing an entrepreneurial mindset, Jennifer and I exchange personal stories about the transformative journey towards confidence and the establishment of equal business stature. We discuss the critical importance of understanding one's purpose and the essential support of a dedicated team, illustrating how these elements are key to thriving in both racing and business landscapes. The lessons learned on the racetrack translate seamlessly into the business world, offering invaluable insights for anyone striving to achieve their goals. Our conversation goes beyond the track and the sales floor to delve into the art of authenticity and resilience. Jennifer shares her experiences as a college student balancing academics, cheerleading, and a part-time job, all while pursuing her passion for racing. We talk about the discipline required to maintain routines and handle multiple responsibilities, highlighting how these skills are vital for success in any field. Through stories of embracing failure, navigating setbacks, and the humor found in unexpected moments—like setting a microwave on fire during a sales demo—Jennifer's journey is a testament to perseverance and the power of embracing life's learning opportunities. (00:03) Female NASCAR Pioneer's Longevity and Perseverance (09:18) Entrepreneurial Mindset for Success (16:45) Authenticity and Tenacity in Success (23:33) Entrepreneurial Mentoring and Female Racing (31:55) Learning From Failure in Sales (00:03) Female NASCAR Pioneer's Longevity and Perseverance This chapter features a conversation with Jennifer Cobb, a trailblazer in the NASCAR world as a part-time professional race car driver, team owner, and entrepreneur. We explore her impressive journey, highlighting her achievements as a female driver with notable records in the NASCAR Truck Series, including her sixth-place finish at Daytona, which was recently surpassed by Natalie Decker. Jennifer shares her experiences and challenges in a male-dominated sport, emphasizing her perseverance and longevity without the backing of significant financial sponsors. She also reflects on the support from her family, especially her late mother, and how she managed to balance racing with personal responsibilities like securing health insurance and purchasing a home. Jennifer now channels her determination into her role at Fastener Supply Company, resonating with others who have shown grit in their careers. (09:18) Entrepreneurial Mindset for Success This chapter explores the transformative journey from fear to confidence in the realm of sales, drawing parallels with the racing world. I share my initial trepidation with cold calling and the intimidating presence of gatekeepers, especially in the manufacturing sector, and how adopting a mindset of equal business stature became crucial. By shifting from a need-based approach to recognizing the value I bring, both in sales and racing sponsorships, I highlight the importance of confidence and team support. Additionally, I reflect on the significance of understanding one's 'why' in both racing and sales, emphasizing the passion and commitment to not only personal goals but also the responsibility towards a team. The chapter underscores the lessons learned from racing that translate into my business career, particularly the drive that comes from a clear purpose and the support of a dedicated team. (16:45) Authenticity and Tenacity in Success This chapter explores the journey of perseverance and determination, highlighting the experiences of a college student juggling academics, cheerleading, and a part-time job while pursuing a passion for race car driving. I share how my no-nonsense father instilled a strong work ethic, refusing to let me quit during challenging times. Reflecting on pivotal moments, such as entering Daytona for the first time, I discuss how these experiences shaped my mindset to never give up during tough times. The importance of consistent behavior and having a clear 'why' is emphasized, drawing parallels to the discipline required in sales. We explore how maintaining routines and balancing multiple responsibilities are crucial for success, and how these lessons apply to both racing and life. (23:33) Entrepreneurial Mentoring and Female Racing This chapter explores the journey of balancing spontaneity with productivity, highlighting how personal tricks can aid in achieving goals despite a lack of strict discipline. I share anecdotes from my entrepreneurial experiences, from starting with Avon at 18 to eventually selling fasteners in the racing industry. Emphasizing the importance of passion, consistency, and persistence, I recount humorous and challenging moments, such as accidentally setting a microwave on fire during a sales demo. Additionally, I touch on my approach to mentoring and public speaking, where I share my story to inspire others and offer guidance to those interested in sales or racing. (31:55) Learning From Failure in Sales This chapter explores the resilience and learning mindset required to overcome failures, both in high-speed racing and in sales. We discuss the importance of understanding why failures occur, emphasizing that analyzing and fixing issues is crucial for growth and success. By comparing experiences in racing and professional life, we highlight how setbacks provide valuable learning opportunities and can lead to improved performance and stronger outcomes. We also reflect on how acknowledging and taking responsibility for mistakes can foster trust and cooperation among peers. Finally, we touch on the qualities necessary for transitioning into new professions, especially in sales, and the significance of embracing failure as a natural and beneficial part of the journey.  

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• How To Succeed at the Cure For Stupidity: Understanding the Brain Science of Change, Communication, and Human Behavior

  Podcast Summary Eric Bailey, president of Bailey Strategic Innovation Group and bestselling author of "The Cure for Stupidity," joins us to unravel the complexities of human behavior through the lens of brain science. Inspired by a spontaneous New Year's resolution, Eric's journey from various industries to authoring a transformative book is nothing short of fascinating. He brings to light how our perception can mislead us and the illusion of certainty that our brains create, urging us to engage in self-reflection and adapt our communication for better understanding. Explore the captivating concept of schadenfreude and its impact on both personal and professional life. We shed light on how this feeling of pleasure in others' misfortunes shows up in sports and workplace rivalries, and how it can affect team cohesion and organizational culture. The importance of acknowledging non-verbal cues, or emotional "leakage," is emphasized to ensure teamwork and cultural integrity aren't compromised. Eric and I delve into the role culture plays in achieving collective success, stressing that it's not just about top-down mandates but about the attitudes and behaviors of everyone involved. Effective communication and leadership are the pillars of a successful workplace culture, and this episode dives deep into these essentials. From the pitfalls of uncommunicated expectations to the virtues of "radical curiosity," we highlight how leaders can transform their interactions from transactional to relational, fostering genuine connections with their teams. Emphasizing the importance of managing individuals and embracing generational shifts in communication, we advocate for environments where genuine emotional experiences are valued, ultimately enhancing leadership effectiveness and employee retention. (00:01) The Cure for Stupidity (12:51) The Impact of Culture on Success (17:06) Building and Nurturing Workplace Culture (29:43) Effective Leadership Communication and Training (36:13) Mastering Curiosity and Communication in Leadership (00:01) The Cure for Stupidity This chapter features an engaging conversation with Eric Bailey, the president of Bailey Strategic Innovation Group and author of the bestselling book, "The Cure for Stupidity: Using Brain Science to Explain Irrational Behavior." We explore Eric's journey from various industries to becoming an author, sparked by a New Year's resolution during a family road trip. Eric shares insights from his book, which is grounded in brain science principles, covering topics such as our tendency to believe our perception of the world is reality and the illusion of certainty. These concepts highlight how our brains can lead us to mistakenly assume we are correct in our interactions with others. Eric emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and adapting our communication to improve understanding, as exemplified by host David's personal anecdotes about learning to distinguish between opinion and fact in his communication. (12:51) The Impact of Culture on Success This chapter explores the intriguing concept of schadenfreude, the pleasure derived from someone else's misfortune, and its implications in both personal and professional settings. We discuss how this phenomenon can manifest in sports rivalries and workplace dynamics, particularly in competitive situations like vying for promotions. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing these feelings and shifting focus towards collective success, emphasizing the role of team cohesion and cultural alignment in organizations. We consider the challenges faced in team environments, such as sales, where internal dissonance can affect client perceptions and outcomes. The chapter also touches on the non-verbal cues, or "leakage," that reveal our true emotions, potentially undermining teamwork and organizational culture. Finally, I reflect on the pivotal role of culture in fostering successful collaborations and achieving shared goals within companies. (17:06) Building and Nurturing Workplace Culture This chapter focuses on the essence and influence of culture within organizations, emphasizing that culture is defined by the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of its people, not merely dictated from the top. I explore how nurturing desired cultural traits, like communication and accountability, requires active participation and feedback from everyone involved. Addressing generational perceptions, I highlight how every generation tends to label the next as self-absorbed, referencing historical views dating back to Aristotle. We also discuss the impact of technology on communication, particularly among younger generations, noting how reliance on digital expressions like emojis and abbreviations may lead to a diminished experience of genuine emotions. This shift could result in amplified emotional responses when real emotions are encountered. (29:43) Effective Leadership Communication and Training This chapter explores the critical importance of clear communication and setting expectations in leadership. We share a real-life example of a leader who struggled with an employee's tardiness due to vague instructions about start times. Highlighting the pitfalls of assuming common sense in workplace norms, we discuss how misunderstandings can arise from uncommunicated expectations, leading to potential conflicts. We emphasize the necessity for leaders to have uncomfortable conversations to ensure clarity and alignment within teams. Furthermore, we touch upon the shortcomings of performance reviews when expectations aren't clearly set and revisited. Lastly, we underline the need for proper training for leaders to equip them with the skills necessary to effectively manage and communicate with their teams. (36:13) Mastering Curiosity and Communication in Leadership This chapter explores the critical leadership skills necessary for success, focusing on the importance of teaching leaders how to communicate effectively, coach, lead, and handle difficult conversations. We emphasize the concept of "radical curiosity," which encourages leaders to adopt a mindset of learning from everyone they meet, regardless of their hierarchical position. By fostering curiosity and asking questions, leaders can create stronger connections with their teams and transform interactions from transactional to relational. The conversation highlights the significance of managing individuals rather than just teams and taking personal responsibility for employee retention. The chapter concludes with a call to catch ourselves when pretending to be know-it-alls, advocating for a shift toward learning and understanding to enhance leadership effectiveness.  

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  43:54
• How To Succeed at Being Unstoppable: Unlocking Your Full Potential in a Changing World

  Renowned speaker and author Krish Dhanam shares his compelling journey from a Zig Ziglar seminar to transforming his career in sales. Experience firsthand the enlightening stories and personal anecdotes that reveal how stepping out of comfort zones can shape the mindset of the top 3% who thrive in the effective zone. Krish’s insights into mindset shifts and embracing change illuminate the path to achieving sales success and overcoming any obstacles in your way. Uncover the secrets to effective leadership and consistent success as we discuss the importance of consistent daily actions over sporadic efforts. Drawing inspiration from the Sandler sales approach and Zig Ziglar's teachings, we explore how establishing a structured plan and growth mindset within teams can lead to sustained achievements. Learn how to prioritize what you can influence and use motivation, consistency, and strategic planning to reach and surpass your goals. Discover the power of product conviction and peak performance as Krish highlights the impact of belief and confidence in sales and leadership. With personal anecdotes and wisdom from mentors, we discuss how instilling conviction in your team about the transformative potential of your products can drive excellence and peak performance. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and insights that will challenge you to recognize that true success starts from within. (00:03) Success Mindset and Overcoming Obstacles (14:17) Daily Behavioral Plan for Sales Success (26:12) Product Conviction and Peak Performance (31:49) Peak Performance and Sales Habits (43:33) Inner Conviction for Sales Success   (00:03) Success Mindset and Overcoming Obstacles This chapter features an engaging conversation with Krish Dhanam, a seasoned speaker and author with a remarkable journey in the sales industry. We explore Krish's transformative experience attending a Zig Ziglar seminar, which marked a pivotal turning point in his career. Krish shares insights on the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, emphasizing the distinction between comfort zone thinkers and effective zone thinkers. He highlights the mindset of the 3% who operate in the effective zone, characterized by their proactive and innovative approach to challenges. We also discuss how individuals can identify where they stand and strategies to transition into becoming effective zone thinkers, focusing on mindset shifts and embracing change. (14:17) Daily Behavioral Plan for Sales Success This chapter focuses on the mindset required for effective leadership and consistent success. We explore how leaders can prioritize negotiable factors they can influence rather than getting bogged down by uncontrollable elements. The importance of consistent daily actions over sporadic efforts is emphasized, drawing on the Sandler sales approach and the insights of renowned motivational speaker Zig Ziglar. By implementing a structured, methodical plan and fostering a growth mindset within teams, leaders can achieve sustained success without relying on last-minute, frenzied activity. Additionally, we highlight the importance of establishing clear foundations, visions, and benchmarks to guide the growth process and ensure accountability. Through stories and personal experiences, the discussion underscores the power of motivation, consistency, and strategic planning in reaching and exceeding goals. (26:12) Product Conviction and Peak Performance This chapter explores the fluidity of the PEST model in management, emphasizing the importance of belief and conviction in leadership and sales. I discuss how having absolute confidence in a product or service can be as comforting as a doctor assuring a patient with experience and certainty. The conversation highlights how this conviction impacts clients and the significance of preparation and effort, regardless of past successes. Reflecting on personal experiences and teachings from mentors like Mr. Ziegler, I stress the importance of honoring one's profession and consistently striving for excellence. Furthermore, we examine the idea that the true essence of replicating success within a company lies in instilling conviction in the team about the transformative power of their products or services. By nurturing this belief, organizations can achieve peak performance and significantly enhance their impact. (31:49) Peak Performance and Sales Habits This chapter explores the nuances of sales management and personal productivity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's strengths and finding complementary partners in the workplace. We discuss the concept of being a creator who generates ideas and the necessity of having a trusted executor to bring those ideas to fruition. The conversation highlights the importance of viewing oneself as part of an assembly line where everyone's output serves as someone else's input, promoting efficiency and teamwork. We also reflect on the difference between individuals who work for a paycheck versus those driven by a mission to make a difference. A personal anecdote underscores the lasting impact of genuine passion and excellence, while Stanley Marcus's wisdom about sales is quoted to reinforce the value of client relationships. The chapter concludes with advice on maintaining peak performance through non-negotiable daily disciplines and the importance of being a time miser to eliminate frivolity and focus on meaningful interactions and tasks. (43:33) Inner Conviction for Sales Success This chapter challenges us to rethink our approach to success by focusing on the mindset and conviction we bring to our daily lives. Instead of searching for external tactics, Krish Dhanam encourages us to recognize that true success lies within us and is influenced by our thoughts and actions. It's a reminder that while tactical strategies are important, the foundation of success is built on our internal mindset and how we engage with our goals. As we reflect on this, the chapter leaves us with the powerful insight that success is as much about our internal perspective as it is about external actions. Until next time, keep this mindset in focus for good selling.

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  44:36
• How To Succeed at Creating Engagement with Corporate Events

  Nashville's own Benji Harris, a gifted songwriter and composer, joins us to unravel the profound influence of music on the corporate world. From his early days forming a band in middle school to sharing stages with country stars, Benji has skillfully woven his experiences into his work with Song Division—pioneering a unique approach to employee engagement and company culture through music. Prepare to be captivated by his journey and insights on using music to transform attitudes and behaviors within corporate environments. Explore the power of musical team-building exercises where skepticism morphs into enthusiasm and teamwork. Benji sheds light on the science behind these experiences, from the release of dopamine and oxytocin, to the tangible shift in mood and collaboration among team members. He emphasizes the fun factor with engaging elements like costumes and props, which break down barriers and foster genuine connections. This approach not only reinforces core values but also creates a memorable shared experience that lingers long after the event. Our conversation goes beyond music to reveal how Sandler training techniques can revolutionize communication, both in sales and personal interactions. We touch on the concept of "planned spontaneity," where preparation meets intuition for a seamless presentation style. Whether you're aiming to boost team cohesion or enhance your leadership skills, the insights shared in this episode offer a fresh perspective on nurturing a cohesive work environment. Tune in to discover how music and communication strategies can lead to meaningful professional and personal growth. (00:02) Music in Corporate Culture (11:31) Musical Team Building Experiences (20:07) The Power of Musical Team Building (33:27) Effective Communication Techniques in Sales (46:03) Podcast Promotion and Copyright Protection (00:02) Music in Corporate Culture This chapter welcomes Nashville-based songwriter, composer, and educator Benji Harris, who shares his journey from discovering the emotional power of music as a child to becoming a professional musician. We explore Benji's path, from forming his first band in middle school to performing with country stars and eventually finding his place in Nashville. The conversation shifts to his involvement with Song Division, a company that brings music into the corporate world to enhance employee engagement and company culture. Benji explains how Song Division uses music as a universal language to foster connection, bonding, and retention among teams through unique musical experiences at corporate events. The discussion touches on the synergy between music and corporate culture, highlighting how music can influence attitudes and behaviors, aligning with concepts like Sandler's success triangle of behavior, attitude, and technique. (11:31) Musical Team Building Experiences This chapter explores the transformative power of music in team-building activities within corporate environments. I discuss how music can effectively convey core values by not only highlighting their importance but also illustrating the consequences of not adhering to them. By engaging participants in a unique song-writing exercise, where initial skepticism and discomfort give way to excitement and camaraderie, teams experience a tangible shift in behavior and mindset. This process leverages the science of music to foster dopamine and oxytocin release, enhancing mood and bonding among team members. By providing fun elements like costumes and props, we encourage participants to embrace the experience fully, resulting in improved collaboration and lasting connections. (20:07) The Power of Musical Team Building This chapter explores the transformative power of music in building team cohesion and enhancing leadership development. We discuss the often-overlooked element of trust within new teams, emphasizing its critical role alongside technical aspects like roles and responsibilities. The chapter highlights a unique program that uses music as a tool to foster trust and understanding among team members, allowing them to connect on a deeper level by sharing personal motivations and values. Through songwriting, teams create a shared experience that breaks down workplace barriers, encouraging open communication and strengthening company culture. We reflect on the reactions of executives who witness the unexpected yet powerful impact of this approach, affirming the importance of innovative strategies in nurturing a positive and cohesive work environment. (33:27) Effective Communication Techniques in Sales This chapter explores the transformative impact of Sandler training on both professional and personal interactions. I discuss how the Sandler method has revolutionized my sales approach by providing a structured way to guide conversations with potential clients, emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions and allowing the client to do most of the talking. This methodology extends beyond the sales environment, influencing personal relationships and interactions. We also examine the concept of "planned spontaneity," where preparation and practice allow for a confident, flexible presentation style that appears spontaneous to the audience. Sharing experiences from being on stage, I highlight how self-deprecation and audience engagement create a relaxed atmosphere, making presentations more relatable and enjoyable. Through these strategies, the chapter underscores the value of preparation, intuition, and adaptability in effectively connecting with an audience. (46:03) Podcast Promotion and Copyright Protection This chapter is an introduction to the How to Succeed podcast featuring Benji Harris. I invite you to stay tuned for our upcoming episodes, which will be available for download on your favorite podcast platforms. Our goal is to provide valuable insights and strategies to help you succeed in your endeavors. I look forward to sharing more content with you soon, and until then, I wish you good selling.  

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  46:36
• How To Succeed at Harnessing Innovation in Sales with Jeremy Thomson

    Podcast Summary Unlock the secrets of seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional sales methods. Join us as we engage with Jeremy Thomson, a seasoned expert in the Sandler network, exploring the transformative impact of tools like AI and ChatGPT. We promise to guide you through the rapid evolution of CRM systems, illustrating how once-basic platforms have morphed into essential, AI-enhanced allies in the sales arena, crucial for staying ahead in a competitive market. Our conversation sheds light on the delicate balance between technology and the human touch in sales. Jeremy shares invaluable insights on how to view technology as a supportive teammate, rather than a substitute for the vital relationship-building skills that define successful salespeople. We emphasize the importance of maintaining a growth mindset and customizing technology to fit unique organizational needs, allowing sales professionals to enhance efficiency and focus on their core strengths: connecting with clients. Explore the crucial intersection of behavior and technique in adopting new technology with us. We discuss strategies to leverage tools like CRM systems and voice intelligence for maximum impact, highlighting the shift in accountability to the individual sales rep. From self-diagnosis to refining communication strategies through call recordings, Jeremy's expertise offers a roadmap to boosting sales effectiveness. By blending traditional Sandler methods with modern tech advancements, sales professionals can ensure continued success and relevance in an ever-evolving market. (00:03) Technology in Sales and Success (08:03) Embracing Technology in Sales (15:30) Leveraging Technology for Sales Effectiveness (21:12) Leveraging Technology for Sales Efficiency (29:03) Staying Ahead With Technology in Sales (00:03) Technology in Sales and Success This chapter focuses on the rapid advancements in technology within the sales landscape, featuring insights from Jeremy Thomson, a seasoned expert in the Sandler network. We explore the transformative impact of tools like AI and ChatGPT, highlighting how quickly these innovations have been adopted and integrated into daily business practices. The discussion underscores the challenges of keeping up with fast-paced tech changes, where new features can become obsolete within months as competitors catch up. We reflect on the evolution of tools like CRM systems, which have transitioned from mere reporting mechanisms to powerful performance-enhancing platforms, largely due to AI integration. Additionally, the chapter touches on the acceleration of tech adoption due to the COVID-19 pandemic, using Zoom as a prime example of a tool that became indispensable overnight. The conversation suggests that AI is becoming so embedded in technology that soon it will simply be considered a standard component of tech solutions. (08:03) Embracing Technology in Sales This chapter explores the role of technology in enhancing sales efficiency while maintaining the human element in the sales process. We discuss the importance of viewing technology as a tool or teammate rather than a replacement for human interaction, emphasizing that technology should support and not replace the critical relationship-building aspect of sales. We highlight the potential pitfalls of over-reliance on technology, such as hiding behind it or using it as a crutch, which can lead to issues like sending inaccurate information. Emphasizing a growth mindset, we urge embracing new technological advancements and making the best use of the tools available, even if they aren't our first choice. The chapter also underscores the importance of customizing technology to fit organizational needs, which is crucial for successful adoption and integration into business processes. (15:30) Leveraging Technology for Sales Effectiveness This chapter explores the crucial intersection of behavior and technique when adopting new technology, especially in sales. We emphasize the importance of understanding and utilizing tools like CRM systems and voice intelligence to their full potential to drive change and efficiency. A month of regular use typically suffices to get comfortable with new tech, but ongoing engagement and self-reflection are essential. For instance, using call recording technology not only aids in note-taking but also enhances self-assessment by allowing sales reps to review and refine their communication strategies. The discussion underscores the shift in accountability to the individual sales rep, who can now self-diagnose performance without relying solely on managerial feedback. This self-improvement process is highlighted as a critical component of leveraging technology to boost sales effectiveness and personal development. (21:12) Leveraging Technology for Sales Efficiency This chapter explores the integration of technology into sales processes and emphasizes its role as a supportive teammate rather than just an administrative tool. We discuss the importance of foundational elements like CRM systems, which, while not glamorous, are essential for data management and driving success. We highlight how technology can enhance prospecting, though its utility depends on the business model. The real value of tech is realized during the sales process by identifying strengths and gaps, enabling salespeople to optimize their performance without needing more leads. We stress the significance of automation in freeing up time for meaningful sales activities. Key takeaways include mapping out the sales process to find tech solutions that aid at different stages, understanding that less can be more with tech integration, and choosing tools that can grow with your needs. (29:03) Staying Ahead With Technology in Sales This chapter focuses on the importance of embracing technology to enhance the buyer's experience and the necessity for professionals to stay competitive in the ever-evolving tech landscape. We explore how buyers are becoming increasingly tech-savvy and the implications for those who lag in adopting new tools. Jeremy, a seasoned trainer in the Sandler world, shares insights on integrating technology with traditional Sandler methods to excel in sales. By incorporating these tech advancements, professionals can elevate their strategies and maintain relevance in a competitive market. This episode offers valuable lessons on blending technology with sales expertise to ensure success.  

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