Real Relationships Real Revenue - Audio Edition | Invest in Relationships to Build Your Business and Your Career

Are you too busy to journal—or just not doing it the right way? In this episode, I sit down with the extraordinary Jo Franco—Netflix host, polyglot, entrepreneur, and journaling pioneer—to unpack the true power of journaling as a transformational tool for self-awareness, leadership, and productivity. If you’ve ever thought journaling was a fluffy “dear diary” ritual, think again. Jo brings science, soul, and strategy to the table, showing how even five minutes with the right prompt can unlock clarity, confidence, and momentum in your life and work. We dive into her personal journey—from being handed a journal as a kid to now leading global journaling workshops that change lives. Along the way, we explore how journaling helps you excavate your goals, align with your values, and become the person you actually want to be—not just the one society tells you to be. Whether you’re a seasoned high-achiever or brand new to the concept of journaling, this episode will give you the prompts, structure, and real-world inspiration to make this practice a game changer. Topics We Cover in This Episode:  Why journaling isn’t about documenting your day—but designing your life The surprisingly simple weekly routine that changed everything for me Jo’s go-to energy audit framework (and how to use it in under 5 minutes) How journaling helps uncover the real reason behind your goals The science-backed prompts that increase happiness, productivity, and memory Why rereading your journal entries is just as important as writing them How to use journaling to become a more impactful leader and partner The journaling method that builds instant depth in your team or relationship Ready to start writing your future self into existence? Head to JoClub.World to check out Jo’s free journaling 101 workshop and grab your starter kit. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who could use some clarity and confidence.    Resources Mentioned: Get Jo’s Journaling Starter Kit and Free Workshop Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!  

Are you letting fear or friction hold you back from the conversations that matter most? In this episode, I sit down with Kwame Christian— host of the #1 negotiation podcast Negotiate Anything and creator of LinkedIn’s only official negotiation certificate—to explore how we can all get better at negotiation by doing it with more heart. Kwame breaks down his signature “Compassionate Curiosity” framework, a three-step method that helps you navigate any conversation—whether in business or life—with empathy, emotional intelligence, and strategic clarity. If you’ve ever struggled with “what to say when it’s hard to say it,” this episode is a must-listen.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:  The unexpected reason most negotiation training fails (and how to fix it) The one mental model that works for almost every tough conversation How to uncover someone’s real priorities—before offering solutions Why your tone matters more than your tactics A simple way to defuse tension in seconds How to know when it’s time to walk away (without burning a bridge)   Be sure to follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn and check out his podcast Negotiate Anything for even more real-world tools. And if you want to start showing up differently in high-stakes conversations, start with compassion, curiosity, and this episode as your guide.   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Listen to the Negotiate Anything Podcast Connect with Kwame  

In this engaging discussion, Michael Bungay Stanier, author of 'How to Work with (Almost) Anyone', shares insights on the transformative power of strong relationships in business. He introduces the concept of the Best Possible Relationship (BPR), highlighting the importance of safety, vitality, and repairability in client interactions. Listeners learn about Keystone Conversations as a tool for enhancing client retention, and five key questions that foster deeper connections. Michael emphasizes the significance of bravery and curiosity in effective collaboration.

Have you ever wondered why asking for what you want can feel so awkward—and why people say yes more often than we think? In this episode, I dive deep with Dr. Vanessa Bohns, an organizational behavior expert from Cornell University and the author of You Have More Influence Than You Think. Together, we unpack why influence is so much more than persuasion—and why it’s less about manipulation and more about authentic, everyday impact. We explore the psychological biases that make us underestimate our influence, the surprising power of simply asking face-to-face, and the crucial difference between perspective-taking and perspective-getting. Whether you’re a leader, a business developer, or simply looking to grow your positive influence, this conversation is packed with insights on building trust, making confident asks, and empowering others while avoiding the “ick” factor.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:    3:05 — Why putting “positive” in front of influence might matter more than you think 6:45 — The 100-year legacy of How to Win Friends and Influence People and why it’s still relevant today 10:15 — Why “just ask” works and how face-to-face requests get 34x more yeses than emails 19:00 — How small, spontaneous asks can build authentic connections and why overthinking can kill momentum 25:20 — The hidden power of stating what you want and why it’s essential in building relationships 29:00 — The difference between perspective-taking and perspective-getting 38:00 — Why direct asks often outperform polished presentations and how to practice this skill 44:00 — How seeing, feeling, and experiencing influence can make you a more confident and effective leader If you loved this conversation with Vanessa Bohns, share the episode with a friend or colleague who could use a confidence boost—and don’t forget to subscribe for more actionable insights on mastering the art of positive influence!   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Connect with Vanessa Get a copy of Vanessa’s book, You Have More Influence Than You Think  

What happens when an elite financial advisory firm embraces a "give to grow" mindset instead of the traditional hard-sell approach? In this episode, I sit down with Cannon Carr, CEO of CornerCap, to explore exactly that. Cannon takes us behind the scenes of how his expert-led team has used authenticity, generosity, and tailored business development strategies to drive remarkable growth—without ever feeling like they're "selling." We dig into how Cannon transformed his mindset, reshaped his firm's culture, and practically applied the GrowBIG and Give to Grow systems to reach entrepreneurs and small business owners on a meaningful level. From shifting away from “always be closing” to developing a truly integrated marketing strategy that leads with value, Cannon shares actionable insights you can apply today—whether you’re an advisor, consultant, or service-based entrepreneur. This conversation is loaded with real talk, tested tactics, and a refreshing take on sustainable business development.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:    The powerful mindset shift that helped Cannon grow without “selling” How giving more can lead to deeper relationships—and more revenue The biggest mistakes experts make when trying to grow their business How Cannon and his team created a seamless strategy from marketing to client conversations Ways to scale trust and credibility through content, without feeling salesy A sneak peek into the systems that helped transform an expert firm into a growth engine How to help others grow… and grow yourself in the process One simple tip Cannon says anyone can apply today to start seeing better results Tune in now to learn how a values-first, give-to-grow approach can help you stand out in a crowded market—while building a business you’re proud of. This isn’t theory—it’s a tactical, inside look at what’s working right now from someone who’s lived it.  

What really gives a company an edge in a constantly changing world? In this episode, I sit down with the legendary David Teece—the man behind the most cited paper on strategic management and the creator of the “Dynamic Capabilities” framework. But he’s far more than an academic. David has built billion-dollar companies, challenged outdated economic models, and reshaped how we think about competitive advantage. We dive deep into how innovation, adaptability, and capabilities—not just cost efficiency—are the real drivers of enduring success. You’ll hear how David has simultaneously excelled in academia and business, what most economists get wrong about firms, and how his groundbreaking ideas help organizations not only survive disruption but thrive in it. Whether you're leading a startup or steering a global company, this conversation will open your mind to what truly powers sustainable growth.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why most strategy models miss the mark in today's innovation-driven world The hidden ingredient that allows companies to thrive amid uncertainty What “dynamic capabilities” really mean (and how to cultivate them) Why David Teece believes traditional economics failed to explain real business success The surprising link between academic theory and billion-dollar execution How to rethink competitive advantage when everything around you is shifting   If today’s conversation sparked new ideas or challenged your thinking, dive deeper into David Teece’s groundbreaking work by grabbing his book Dynamic Capabilities & Strategic Management: Organizing for Innovation and Growth on Amazon. And if you want to continue the discussion or explore collaboration opportunities, you can reach David directly at dteece@thinkbrg.com.   Resources Mentioned: Purchase a Copy of Dynamic Capabilities & Strategic Management: https://a.co/d/g8Xo4uA Connect with David at dteece@thinkbrg.com Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

What if the secret to peak performance wasn’t grinding harder, but simply feeling better? In this episode of Real Relationships, Real Revenue, I sit down with the brilliant Ali Abdaal—doctor, YouTuber, author, and now productivity philosopher—to unpack the science and strategy behind Feel Good Productivity. We explore the idea that happiness isn’t a reward for success, but the engine that drives it. Ali breaks down how boosting energy, reducing stress, and infusing joy into your daily work can radically enhance both performance and satisfaction. If you’ve ever felt burned out, stuck, or like your business development efforts are a chore, this conversation might just flip everything you thought you knew about productivity. We also dive into the real-world applications of Ali’s ideas—from overcoming introversion in high-stakes networking to staying consistent with outreach when results seem far away. With his signature blend of science and story, Ali walks us through practical ways to make selling, leading, and even showing up to client events feel fun. This isn’t just a motivational chat—it’s a masterclass in rethinking how you work, sell, and grow. If you’re building a business, deepening client relationships, or just trying to stay sane while doing it all—tune in. You’re going to want to hear this.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:  The one question that can transform any task from draining to energizing Why feeling good before you get results might be your ultimate advantage A mindset shift that turns sales into service—and kills the sleazy feeling How Nobel Prize-winning physics and magic tricks both relate to business growth The 3 core "energizers" that power up your workday (and how to use them) The simple trick Ali used to stay consistent on YouTube Why pretending to be an actor might just be your new networking superpower   If this episode lit a spark, imagine what could change if you started applying even one of these ideas today. Take a second to reflect—what’s one thing you could make more fun this week? And if you loved this conversation, don’t forget to share it with a colleague, grab a copy of Feel Good Productivity, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. We’re just getting started.   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Check Out Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You: https://a.co/d/38WJQtT Follow Ali’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@aliabdaal Take a Look at Ali’s Website: https://aliabdaal.com/ Sign Up for Ali’s Newsletter: https://aliabdaal.com/newsletter/

What does it really take to stand out and succeed in a competitive market? In this episode, we dive deep into the strategies and mindset shifts that can elevate your brand and business. Our guest, Topaz Adizes, shares firsthand experiences, practical advice, and thought-provoking insights that challenge the status quo. From overcoming obstacles to leveraging hidden opportunities, this conversation is packed with golden nuggets you won’t want to miss. We discuss the power of storytelling in business, the importance of adapting to change, and how to build lasting connections with your audience. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or someone looking for that next level of growth, this episode will inspire you to take action. Get ready for an eye-opening discussion that might just change the way you think about success.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:  A mindset shift that can drastically change your results The secret to building brand loyalty that most people overlook How to turn setbacks into stepping stones for growth A hidden opportunity in your industry that you might be missing The role of storytelling in creating an unforgettable brand Why adaptability is your greatest asset in business How to make your audience feel truly connected to your message Want to learn more from Topaz and stay connected? Check out his work at topazadizes.com. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and let us know your biggest takeaway!   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Connect with Topaz  

Have you ever let fear of failure, uncertainty, or judgment hold you back from going after what you truly want? In this episode, we dive into the principles of Wild Courage with author Jenny Wood. We break down three of the nine bold traits she explores in her book—how to be positively manipulative, obsessed, and shameless—to achieve extraordinary success in business and life. Jenny shares how a bold moment on a New York subway shaped her fearless approach, how she landed her dream job at Google, and the powerful strategies she now uses as an entrepreneur to build relationships, close deals, and grow her business. Get ready for a conversation packed with insights on influence, persistence, and self-advocacy. Whether you're looking to grow your business, advance your career, or simply take bigger, bolder steps in life, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it means to be fearless. Tune in now—this is your chance to learn how to apply Wild Courage to your own journey!   Topics We Cover in This Episode:  The surprising way fear of judgment holds us back—and how to push through it How to be “manipulative” in the best way possible (yes, really!) Why being obsessed isn’t a bad thing—it’s the key to success The strategy that got Jenny hired at Google (hint: she didn’t just apply online) How to use the "pencil sharpener" tactic to win people over and close deals The simple shift in your emails that makes people say “yes” faster Why your biggest missed opportunity might be not being shameless The unexpected power of asking the right question in a networking call   If you’re ready to step up and take action, connect with Jenny and dive deeper into Wild Courage. Visit itsjennywood.com for free resources, follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram, and grab a copy of Wild Courage at wildcouragebook.com. If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend and tag us on social media—we’d love to hear how you're embracing Wild Courage!   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Email Jenny at: jenny@itsjennywood.com Buy Wild Courage at: https://a.co/d/5M4vFNy Download the resources Jenny mentioned at: itsjennywood.com/mo

Have you ever found yourself in a leadership role—whether guiding a team, driving a client project, or shaping a business—without an official title? In this episode, I sit down with leadership expert and author Kevin Eikenberry to unpack the power of flexible leadership and how it can drive both relationships and revenue. We explore how great leaders don’t just react—they lead with confidence, even in uncertain times. Kevin shares insights from his latest book, Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence, diving into how leadership is a verb, not a title, and how adaptability is the key to long-term success. We cover everything from defining a clear vision to leading through uncertainty and creating buy-in with your team. Kevin’s practical, real-world strategies will help you navigate change, communicate effectively, and inspire action—even when the future feels unpredictable. If you’re ready to step into leadership with confidence, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways you won’t want to miss! Topics We Cover in This Episode:  The surprising truth about leadership (and why it has nothing to do with your job title) The biggest mistake leaders make when setting a vision—and how to avoid it Why uncertainty isn’t your enemy—and how to turn it into an advantage How to adapt when your plans are blown up a week after you make them The “IKEA Effect” and why it’s the secret to getting your team fully bought in The one leadership practice you should be doing every single month (but probably aren’t) Why over-communicating is the key to trust—and how to do it without sounding repetitive A mindset shift that will completely change how you handle challenges in leadership Tune in now to discover how flexible leadership can help you navigate uncertainty, inspire action, and build lasting success. Resources Mentioned: Kevin’s Gift to Listeners Kevin’s new book, Flexible Leadership Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!