Relationships Rule

How do you stand out in a world full of competition?Jason Zygadlo, founder of Build.Your.Own.Brand., joins me to share his journey from creatively breaking into pharmaceutical sales to becoming an expert in helping people and businesses stand out. Jason’s stories are filled with grit and ingenuity, like the time he wore scrubs to prepare for a medical sales interview or how he turned video messaging into a game-changer for building relationships. He’s passionate about teaching others to be different and memorable in a way that creates genuine connections.Jason also talks about his love for video communication, explaining how it can help salespeople, businesses, and job seekers stand out in a crowded market. Whether it’s thanking customers or grabbing the attention of a decision-maker, his tips will make you rethink how you connect with others.Key Takeaways:Creativity and boldness can open doors where traditional methods fail, as Jason’s early career stories prove.Video messaging is a powerful tool for standing out, building trust, and creating lasting impressions.Authenticity matters—imperfections in videos or messages can actually make them more relatable and impactful.Focusing on personalized communication, like tailored videos, can strengthen customer loyalty and retention.Being memorable often means stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new, even if it feels risky.Connect with Jason:Website: https://www.careercoachbyob.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-a-zygadlo-9051311/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jason.zygadlo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jzig1978/ In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly build lasting success?Scott Grates, a relationship marketing expert, breaks it all down in this episode. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to “sell, sell, sell,” Scott’s story will inspire you to rethink your approach. He shares how shifting his focus from transactions to genuine relationships transformed his career in insurance and beyond. His method is simple: show up consistently, add value, and trust the process.We talk about his book Referrals Done Right and how anyone can use the power of connections to grow their business without feeling pushy. Scott opens up about personal experiences, like how one unexpected conversation with a realtor taught him the true value of relationship-building. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for new ways to level up, his insights will make you rethink what it means to succeed.Highlights:Building real relationships beats aggressive sales tactics every time.Offering value without expecting something in return creates trust and loyalty.Consistency and authenticity are the secrets to staying top of mind with your network.Tapping into parallel industries can open doors to new opportunities you might not expect.Success doesn’t happen overnight—it takes patience, grit, and a long-term commitment to your goals.Connect with Scott:Website: https://www.scottgrates.com/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scottgratesPodcast: https://www.scottgrates.com/rdr-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Check this out:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Is confidence the secret to successful selling?Jean Wright, a sales confidence coach, joins me to share her passion about helping women break free from the outdated, aggressive sales stereotypes. Jean shares her journey from selling Girl Scout cookies to becoming a sales pro, and how she learned to thrive by building relationships, not just closing deals. Her approach focuses on tapping into your authentic self, believing in your product, and developing the confidence to ask for what you’re worth.Jean offers practical advice on how to move away from the fear of being "too salesy" and instead focus on the power of genuine connection. We also dive into the importance of trust, confidence, and the ability to stand firm when asking for what you’re worth in any sales conversation.Highlights:Sales success is built on confidence and authenticity, not aggressive techniques.Building relationships and trust with customers is key to long-term success.Asking for money or closing a deal should come from a place of knowing your worth, not fear.Overcoming self-doubt in sales is a skill that can be learned and strengthened over time.Women in sales should use their natural empathy and communication skills to their advantage.Connect with Jean:Website: https://sellingyourconfidence.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanwright-confidencebuilder/ In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What happens when you take a step back to redesign your business — and your life?In this episode, I talk with Donna Cravotta, CEO and Founder of the Cravotta Media Group and the creator of BeVisible.club, who shares how a major reset led her to reimagine her business around intentional visibility and storytelling. Donna explains how she stepped away from her fast-paced marketing career to reevaluate what she truly wanted and how that pause helped her build a more purposeful business model. She talks about the importance of showing up authentically in your work, especially for women over 50, and how intentional visibility can create deeper connections and more meaningful success.Donna also gives us a peek into how she integrates AI tools like ChatGPT into her strategies and how staying curious has been key to her growth. Her advice? Trust yourself and be intentional about how you present your business to the world.Highlights:Learn how taking a break can help you reset your business and align it with your true goals.Discover the power of intentional visibility — it’s about more than just being seen; it’s about connecting with the right people.Understand why focusing on values, not just demographics, helps build stronger relationships with your target audience.Explore how AI tools like ChatGPT can be used to enhance your marketing strategy with smarter, more personalized content.Trust yourself in business decisions to avoid getting lost in the noise of what everyone else is doing. Connect with Donna:Website: https://cravottamediagroup.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnacravotta/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnacravotta/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cravottamediagroup Email: hello@cravottamediagroup.comIn appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

I am joined, in this episode, by kindness ambassador, life & wellness coach, author and speaker, Tracey Gates. Tracey shares her incredible, year-long mission to send out kindness, one note at a time and offers inspiring insights on how small acts can create profound changes in both the giver and receiver. She helps us imagine what a world filled with people who feel appreciated could look like and gives us a practical way to get there. Tune in to hear heartfelt stories, practical strategies, and the transformative power of choosing kindness.  Key Topics Discussed: 1. Inspiring stories from Tracy’s year-long kindness journey   2. The powerful effects of giving kindness without expecting anything in return   3. How sending notes of kindness can change both the giver and the receiver   4. Lessons Tracy learned about human connection and appreciation   5. Actionable strategies for incorporating kindness into everyday life   In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What’s it like to have a career built on the power of your voice?Earl Thomas knows. He has the perfect nickname for his career journey – he is known as "The Voice,". Earl and I sit down to talk about the world of voiceovers, broadcasting, and public speaking. Earl shares how he got his start, his love for voice work, and how the industry has evolved. We explore his experience in radio and voiceover gigs, from commercial spots to narrations, and even telephone prompts. Earl’s passion for connecting with people through his voice is clear, and he explains how curiosity and lifelong learning keep him motivated.Earl also opens up about his mental health journey and how stand-up comedy helped him through tough times. We wrap up by discussing his excitement for what’s next, including future podcast guests and the importance of not giving up on what you love.Highlights:How to break into the voiceover industry and the range of opportunities available, from commercials to narration and public speaking.The importance of mental health and how creative outlets, like stand-up comedy, can be a powerful tool for coping with challenges.Why voiceover work isn’t just about having a great voice — it’s about adapting your tone and energy to fit the message and audience.The role of curiosity and continuous learning in staying relevant in any industry, especially in broadcasting and voice work.Earl’s approach to overcoming setbacks and why persistence is crucial for success in any field.Connect with Earl:Website: www.earlthomasthevoice.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/earlthomasthevoice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EarlThomasTheVoice/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc220Tn66BHkbE9Uy1AwoLA?Email: dukeearl@shaw.caVOICE POWER Podcast: https://voicepower.buzzsprout.comIn appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

How are AI and social selling changing the way we connect in sales?Join me as I sit down with John Golden, a globally recognized sales and marketing thought leader, to explore the evolving world of sales. John shares how social selling has become an essential part of the sales process, blending relationship-building with smart strategies. He emphasizes that sales today isn’t just about making transactions—it’s about creating meaningful connections, and AI can be a powerful tool when used thoughtfully.We also talk about his journey as a brilliant podcaster and how his natural curiosity has driven his success in business and life. John shares how his experience in Taekwondo has shaped his approach to discipline and focus, teaching lessons that have impacted both his personal and professional world.Highlights:Social selling has become an integral part of the modern sales process, not a separate skill.Building strong, authentic relationships is more important than focusing solely on transactions.AI can enhance sales, but personalization and authenticity are crucial for success.Curiosity is a powerful trait that drives success in both business and personal growth.The discipline and respect learned through martial arts have shaped John’s approach to leadership and sales. Connect with John:Website: https://www.pipelinersales.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngolden/Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealSalesPOPYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SalesPOPSales POP! Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sales-pop-podcasts/id1455305326In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What if really listening could transform your relationships, both personal and professional?In this episode, I chat with Deb Porter, a communication expert and founder of Hearing Out Life Drama. Deb is passionate about the power of listening and how it can change the way we connect with others. She believes that what many call soft skills should really be thought of as essential skills, and she shares how these skills have become the core of her work. Deb's approach goes beyond just hearing words — she teaches the art of active listening, which involves fully engaging with both the content and the emotions behind what someone is saying.We discuss how listening begins with us and why being calm and centered is the key to truly hearing others. Deb shares stories from her career, including how her experiences working in a funeral home helped her realize the importance of empathy and presence. She also talks about her work with teams and businesses, helping them develop stronger communication and leadership skills by focusing on empathy and understanding.Highlights:Deb emphasizes that listening starts with being calm and centered, so we can fully engage with what’s being communicated.Active listening involves understanding both the content and the emotions behind what someone says, which builds stronger connections.Empathy is a critical part of leadership, and learning to see things from another person’s perspective can transform team dynamics.Many people feel they can’t talk to their close connections about personal issues, making platforms like Deb’s invaluable for honest communication.Emotional intelligence and listening are essential skills that are often overlooked but are crucial in both personal and professional settings.Connect with Deb:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deblhporter/Email: info@hearingoutlifedrama.comIn appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Ever wondered how creativity and strategy can take a business from ordinary to extraordinary?In this episode, I sit down with David Saxby, a marketing expert who’s known for thinking outside the box and bringing a fresh approach to business strategies. David explains how creativity is crucial, but without a solid strategy and execution, even the best ideas can fall flat. He shares insights from his career, including how his innovative thinking helped brands like Shaw Cable thrive in highly competitive markets.David also dives into common mistakes businesses make, like trying to target everyone or sending confusing messages. His advice? Find the right market gap, focus on strategy first, and understand the psychology of your customers. Through engaging stories, he breaks down how businesses can better connect with their audiences, especially in a digital world where attention is hard to grab.Highlights:Creativity is just the start — success comes when it's paired with strong strategy and execution.Businesses often fail by targeting everyone; the key is finding your niche and focusing there.Effective marketing is about understanding customer psychology and how to cut through the noise.Building real, human connections with customers is still vital, even in a tech-driven world.David’s success formula: strategy first, then creative execution, leading to long-term growth and differentiation.Connect with David:Website: sparkcommunications.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-saxby/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100081172687496Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidsaxbyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/davidsaxbyspeakerEmail: dsaxby@sparkcommunications.comIn appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Join me as I chat with Jill Sherer Murray, an award-winning author, TEDx speaker, and communications expert. Jill shares how her obsession with TED Talks inspired her to give her own talk, "The Unstoppable Power of Letting Go," which now has millions of views. She opens up about how letting go of a long-term relationship helped her build a whole new chapter of her life, inspiring people everywhere to release what’s holding them back – and she shares her story with a wonderful sense of humor too.We dive into the challenges of letting go, why it’s never easy, and how Jill’s personal process helps people break free from toxic relationships, dead-end jobs, and limiting beliefs. Jill explains that letting go isn’t about giving up—it’s about finding the courage to move on when you know you deserve better.She also talks about the importance of relationships and how most of her big career moves came from random, real-life connections. Plus, Jill teases her upcoming novel, which explores love, family dynamics, and finding yourself in the middle of life. This conversation is full of laughs, wisdom, and real talk about embracing change and betting on yourself.Discover:Jill’s TED Talk, "The Unstoppable Power of Letting Go," shows how releasing what holds us back can lead to incredible personal growth.Letting go isn’t easy, but Jill’s process helps us break free from toxic relationships, unfulfilling jobs, and limiting beliefs.Moving forward requires courage; letting go is about making space for what we truly deserve.Jill’s biggest career moves happened through unexpected connections, highlighting the power of relationships in finding new opportunities.Letting go doesn’t mean giving up—it’s about detaching from what no longer serves us and choosing a better pathConnect with JillEmail: jillsherermurray@gmail.comWebsite: https://www.jillsherermurray.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jill.sherermurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letgoforit/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillsherermurray/ In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for mycomplimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a luckylistener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, whichexposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.