The Selling Podcast

This week, we tackle the silent killer of sales productivity: Analysis Paralysis. As the old saying goes, "Nothing happens until something is sold," yet many sales reps find themselves stuck in the "basement office," over-strategizing while their prospects move on to competitors.Scott and "Old Dude" break down why we get stuck in the parking lot, the difference between preparation and procrastination, and how to build the "Ready, Fire, Aim" mindset required to actually close deals.In this episode, we discuss:The 70% Rule: Why a "bad plan" violently executed today is better than a perfect plan that never launches.The Fish Hatchery Strategy: How to contain "collateral damage" by testing your pitch in small, safe ponds (like friends, family, or mentors) before hitting the big stage.The Imposter Syndrome Trap: Overcoming the "White Coat Syndrome" and realizing that most prospects aren't looking for perfection—they’re looking for action.Measuring Activity vs. Preparation: Why your CRM should reflect how many times you "dipped your toe in the water," not how many hours you spent researching.The 5-Minute Rule: If a sales action (an email, a follow-up, a quick intro) takes less than five minutes, do it immediately.

This week, we bridge the gap between the classroom and the closing room. We are joined by BJ Allen, Professor of Marketing and Sales at Brigham Young University (BYU). BJ isn't just a theorist; he’s an expert in the "Silicone Slopes" tech scene, a researcher, and a mentor to the next generation of sales superstars.We dive deep into the evolution of sales—from the "old school" days of Xerox and IBM to the modern "SaaS Machine." BJ explains why sales is no longer just "artistry" or "fluffy" talk—it’s a data-driven process where the best learners always become the best earners.In this episode, we discuss:The "Spin" Revolution: Why the Spin Selling methodology changed the game by proving sales is a repeatable process.The "Frenemy" Relationship: How marketing and sales are finally aligning through Account-Based Marketing (ABM).LinkedIn as Your Personal Website: Why 90% of B2B buyers vet you online before they ever take your call—and how to brand yourself as a content expert, not just a "President’s Club" winner.The Power of Micro-Testing: Why you should A/B test your subject lines and intros like a scientist to see what actually moves the needle.AI and the Authenticity Gap: Why the rise of automation is actually a "golden ticket" for salespeople who double down on human, personalized interactions.

Hiring is a gamble, but you don't have to play with blinders on. This week, we welcome back Tim Germann, Chief Commercial Officer at Carterra, to pull back the curtain on how he builds world-class commercial teams. Tim breaks down his "Three Pillars" for identifying top talent: a documented history of success, a relentless work ethic verified by deep-dive references, and the ability to articulate every career transition with ownership rather than excuses.We explore the "Razor’s Edge" of the interview—finding that rare individual who is infinitely confident in their past results but appropriately humble about the challenges ahead. Tim also shares a powerful lesson on self-awareness and social anxiety in leadership, and why even a "corporate flame-out" can be the germination point for a future superstar. If you are a hiring manager looking to lower your risk or a candidate looking to stand out, this masterclass in interviewing is for you.

Send us a textAre you managing your business or truly leading it? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott welcome strategic expert Jim Hanlon to discuss a powerful, often overlooked truth: the best CEOs are often the best CE-'NO's.Jim breaks down the mindset required to run your business with laser-like focus. He explains that great leadership often requires the courage to say "no" to distractions and opportunities that, while tempting, don't align with your core mission.The central lesson is clear: look critically at what is making money and what is not. Jim argues that if an activity, product, or service isn't generating revenue, you must have the discipline to stop it. We discuss how to strategically analyze your offerings and ensure everything you do aligns perfectly with your existing strengths and goals.Tune in to learn how to stay focused, remain true to your vision, and adopt the strategic discipline of a CE-'NO' to maximize profitability and drive genuine business growth.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textThink a deal is dead? Think again! This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott welcome legendary long-time selling champion Tim Germann to share his game-changing philosophy: no sale is ever too far gone.Tim reveals the counterintuitive phrase that has saved countless deals when a client says they’re moving in another direction: "And that is exactly why you should stay with us." He breaks down why this phrase instantly catches prospects off guard, buys you crucial time, and allows you to pivot and offer the perfect, tailored solution they haven't yet considered.But Tim’s wisdom goes beyond tactics. He argues that sales is mostly art, not science, and that every person is fundamentally built with the innate ability to sell, even if they need a little training to unlock it. Tune in to learn how to tap into your natural selling ability and gain the confidence to flip a "no" into a definite "yes." This episode is your guide to mastering the ultimate sales comeback.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textEver wondered what it really takes to turn a great idea into a profitable business—all while keeping your day job? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott are thrilled to host Justin Kress from Justinhomecare! Justin is here to share the blueprint for building a thriving business from absolutely nothing.Justin dives into his compelling personal story, detailing the journey from having a brilliant idea to successfully transforming his side hustle into a full-fledged, growing business. He reveals the practical strategies he uses to keep pushing his dream forward without sacrificing the stability of his current job.The core of this conversation centers on two essential steps for any entrepreneur: finding your niche and then providing the perfect solution. Justin breaks down his process for identifying an underserved market within home health, creating a specialized service, and delivering value that sets him apart.Tune in for an inspiring and actionable episode that proves you don't need to quit your job or secure massive funding to start building your business success today.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textWe've all been there: staring at the phone, dreading the next cold email, and suddenly the urge to organize your sock drawer is overwhelming. This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott tackle the universal sales struggle: how to reach out when you really don't want to.They dive straight into the psychology of sales avoidance, breaking down the seven major traps to avoid. Stop waiting for motivation, quit apologizing, and delete that novel-length message! Mike and Scott explain why overthinking and letting fear of rejection dictate silence are the real quota killers.Then, they flip the script with seven powerful, actionable strategies to build outreach momentum:Start Small: Forget the huge task list and commit to just one outreach a day.Be Curious, Not Perfect: Use simple templates and focus on asking a genuine question about them, not pitching yourself.Shift Focus Outward: Learn how framing your outreach as giving value or opportunity melts away the fear of rejection.Finally, they share the ultimate mindset shift: celebrate the attempt, not the outcome. Success is simply hitting "send." Tune in for the funny banter and practical advice that will help you conquer procrastination and consistently fuel your pipeline.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textAre your conversations in networking events and client meetings leading straight to dead ends? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott tackle a critical skill that separates master networkers from awkward noodlers: the difference between "Nothing" and "Great" conversation starters.Mike and Scott break down the safe, lazy phrases that kill rapport (yes, we’re looking at you, "How's the weather?" and "Busy day?"). They reveal why these are just statements about facts that give your prospect nothing to build on, wasting valuable time.Then, they pivot to the powerful framework of Great Conversation Starters. Learn to swap boring small talk for open-ended questions that spark genuine connection, interest, and depth, such as:Personal & Relational: "What’s keeping you excited lately?"Situational: "How did you get into what you do?"Deeper & Engaging: "What’s a project or goal you’re working on right now?"The golden rule is simple: Nothing starters are statements; Great starters are questions about stories, emotions, or choices. Tune in to get the exact cheat sheet for transforming your introductions into meaningful dialogue that builds trust and ultimately drives your sales pipeline.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textIt’s the conversation every sales professional avoids, but the one you desperately need to hear. This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott pull no punches on a critical question: when is it time to fire a client? They reveal that holding on to a bad customer can be more damaging than letting them go, costing you not just revenue, but your time, your team's morale, and your business's future.In this episode, we break down 12 unmistakable red flags that signal a toxic relationship. We’re not talking about minor annoyances; we’re talking about a client who:Costs more than they make, draining your support and time.Constantly disrespects you or your team, making every interaction a source of dread.Demands unrealistic expectations and causes endless scope creep without paying for it.Chronically pays late, wreaking havoc on your cash flow.Mike and Scott provide a simple but powerful rule of thumb: if a client consistently ticks three or more of these boxes, they are a bad fit. This episode is your playbook for identifying unprofitable relationships and having the confidence to cut them loose, freeing up your pipeline for better, more aligned opportunities.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textEver feel like a sales call was a total waste of time? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott reveal the antidote: a powerful framework built on just four essential questions that turn every conversation into a strategic advantage.They introduce the "Strategic Flight Plan," a simple yet powerful methodology that ensures every sales call is intentional and directly tied to your quota. You'll learn to ask:"Why are we stopping here?" to avoid the easy but pointless meetings and focus on genuine opportunities."Who are we going to see here?" and "What questions are we going to ask them?" to stop flying blind and start planning for a truly impactful conversation.And the most critical question of all: "Why is that information you are after important?"—the secret to tying every detail back to a bigger business outcome.This isn't just about asking questions; it's about building a feedback loop where your daily actions directly feed into your overall sales success. Tune in to transform your calls from busywork into purposeful, revenue-driving conversations.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textAre your "just checking in" emails getting you ghosted? This week, Mike and Scott get straight to the point on one of the biggest deal-killing mistakes in sales. They reveal why this common phrase is a total waste of time and introduce the Golden Rule of Follow-Up—a framework that transforms your outreach from an annoyance into a valuable part of the sales process.In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Add Value, Not Just Nudges: Discover how to share industry insights, client success stories, or helpful resources that make your prospect smarter, not just annoyed.Move the Process Forward, Relentlessly: Get the exact questions to ask and next steps to set that keep the momentum going, even when they're busy.Make Every Touchpoint Personal: Learn how to use company wins, promotions, or their specific needs to create a genuine connection that makes you impossible to ignore.Mike and Scott provide concrete, ready-to-use phone call openers and email templates that are designed to teach something new, remind them of their goals, or simply make their decision easier. Tune in to ditch the check-in and start building a follow-up process that closes deals.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textIs cold calling dead? It's the most controversial question in sales, and this week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott tackle the debate head-on. In a classic showdown of old-school grit versus new-school tech, they lay out the powerful case for and against the cold call.On one side, they argue that cold calling is far from dead, serving as a direct, fast path to decision-makers and a powerful way to build genuine human connection in a digital world. They even explain why, in industries like medical and B2B services, the phone still reigns supreme and is an essential "boot camp" for building a new rep's pipeline and resilience.On the other side, they don't shy away from the harsh realities. They dissect the frustrations of navigating gatekeepers and voicemail graveyards, the low ROI compared to highly targeted social selling, and how the modern buyer's behavior has made cold calls feel like an interruption. They also confront the real issue of burnout and morale that constant rejection can cause.This episode is a balanced, no-BS look at both sides of the argument. Mike and Scott's signature banter will have you laughing as you re-evaluate your own prospecting strategy and decide for yourself if cold calling is a vital tool or a relic of the past.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textIs the elusive "work/life balance" a myth? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and I get real about a topic that plagues every ambitious professional. We argue that true balance is impossible and that the real key to success lies in a radical reframe: work/life is a trade-off, not a balance.Mike lays out a powerful truth: work is an obligation, but family is a non-negotiable responsibility. With this perspective, we explore the concept of work/life integration, a more realistic and effective approach. We challenge you to stop trying to fit your family life into your work schedule and, instead, strategically find how to fit your career into your family life—the second most important thing into the first.This episode is packed with candid insights and practical advice on how to navigate this trade-off with intentionality. We share our own struggles and successes in creating a life where you can be a top-performing professional without sacrificing what truly matters.Tune in to learn how to change your mindset, make the right choices, and create a sustainable model for success in every area of your life.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textEver wonder what separates the good sales reps from the truly great ones—the ones who consistently meet and exceed their quota, quarter after quarter? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott pull back the curtain on the top three things elite sales professionals do to achieve consistent success. No guests, no fluff, just actionable wisdom you can implement immediately.We dive deep into three core principles:They Own Their Pipeline Like a CEO: Elite reps don't sit back and wait for leads to land in their lap. We'll show you why the best in the business act like the CEO of their own sales territory, taking full ownership of their prospecting. Learn to understand the value and velocity of every opportunity in your pipeline, ensuring a steady, predictable flow of business that you control.They Sell with Purpose, Not Just Products: Quota crushers are more than just product experts—they are customer-centric problem solvers. We explain why focusing on features is a rookie mistake. Instead, learn how to ask smart, situational questions that uncover your prospect's pain points and allow you to tailor your pitch to their specific needs. Remember, people buy outcomes, not options.They Follow Through and Follow Up Relentlessly: The final secret to success isn't just about closing, but about finishing. We reveal why the most successful sales reps are masters of follow-up. Discover how to set clear next steps in every interaction and relentlessly circle back on old leads. We'll prove that in a world full of distractions, your persistence is your most professional asset.Tune in to learn the three habits that will transform your sales game and help you start crushing your own quota.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textOn "The Selling Podcast" we're celebrating our 5-year anniversary! To mark the occasion, Mike and Scott take an unforgettable look back at half a decade of hard-won sales wisdom, funny banter, and unforgettable guests. But this isn't your typical retrospective.In a first for the show, Mike and Scott get a little help from the future, using AI personalities generated by NotebookLM to help them revisit and distill the most impactful moments from past episodes. It was a blast to make, and the result is a potent "best of" that's perfect for both new listeners catching up and longtime fans ready for a trip down memory lane.We'll re-explore some of our most popular topics, revisit key strategies for overcoming objections, and reinforce the core principles that have defined the podcast from day one. If you've ever wondered how to apply practical, no-nonsense advice to your sales career, this episode is a powerful reminder that the fundamentals are timeless.Tune in to celebrate five years of helping you sell better, live better, and most of all... enjoy more!Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textHow many times has a deal gone sour because of a simple miscommunication about expectations? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott welcome Pete Howland to break down the critical skill of setting and managing client expectations. This isn't just about good manners; it's about building trust, avoiding disappointment, and ensuring a fantastic customer experience.Pete reveals a simple yet powerful tactic: instead of giving a vague timeframe like "it'll be ready in a few hours," give a concrete time of day. "I'll have that to you by 3 PM" is a game-changer that eliminates ambiguity and shows you're in control.But the real secret, Pete argues, is asking the right questions to uncover the expectations your client already has—and you just don't know about yet. We dive into how to have these crucial conversations upfront to align on goals and build a collaborative, transparent relationship from the very start.This episode is your blueprint for moving beyond vague promises and into a world of clear, confident communication. Tune in as Pete breaks down how mastering this skill will not only save you from headaches but also consistently help you deliver an exceptional experience that keeps clients coming back.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textEver feel like you're pitching to a brick wall? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott sit down with Ryan Blair, a dynamic change consultant, to tackle one of the toughest challenges in sales: getting people to embrace change. We all know change is hard—for us, and for our prospects—and Ryan provides the blueprint for making it happen.In this insightful episode, Ryan reveals his battle-tested tips and tricks for guiding people through the change process. He shares how to quickly and accurately identify the person who's simply not interested in your message and how to avoid wasting precious time on lost causes.But more importantly, Ryan breaks down how to strategically set up your sales and service process so that prospects are not just willing, but eager to change and implement your solution. He explains how to build a case for change that resonates on a deep level, turning resistance into enthusiasm.Tune in for a powerful conversation filled with actionable strategies on how to become a true change agent, not just a salesperson. Mike and Scott bring their signature blend of sharp wit and hard-hitting sales wisdom to make this a must-listen for any sales professional looking to get a "yes" from even the most change-averse clients.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textIt's the call every sales professional dreads: losing a top account. This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott get raw and real about a painful truth in the sales world. They reveal that no matter how experienced you are, the sting of losing a major client never truly goes away. The same cycle of emotions—shock, anger, and self-doubt—happens every single time.In this episode, we tackle this emotional rollercoaster head-on, providing a crucial framework for not just surviving, but thriving after a major loss. We explore the initial feelings of shock or denial and the inevitable spiral into anger or blame—whether directed at a colleague, the client, or yourself. Mike and Scott share a critical "don't": do not get angry at someone's decision to move on. They explain why recognizing this as a business decision, not a personal attack, is the first step toward a healthy recovery.We then address the dangerous feelings of self-doubt that creep in, making you question your own abilities. But most importantly, we equip you with a plan for what not to do next. We’ll show you why you should never panic and frantically call your other clients to offer unnecessary discounts just to keep them. We share a powerful mantra: "Don't let panic poison your position." Instead of creating unneeded commotion, learn how to keep the situation isolated and contain the emotional fallout.Ultimately, this episode is a guide to getting back to business. Mike and Scott emphasize the importance of managing your own emotions, avoiding stressing out everyone around you, and immediately focusing back on your pipeline. The key to recovering from a major loss isn't dwelling on the past, but channeling that energy into the future and getting back to the business of winning.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textEver find yourself dreaming big about your sales goals, but those dreams feel more like a fantasy than a plan? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott tackle a crucial distinction that separates successful sales pros from those perpetually chasing rainbows: the difference between a pipeline and a pipedream.We dive into what makes a pipedream – those exciting, often unrealistic aspirations that live only in your head. While creativity and big thinking are great, a pipedream, by definition, isn't written down, isn't grounded in reality, and often leads to disappointment rather than achievement.Then, we introduce the power of the pipeline – your tangible, realistic, and written blueprint for the future of your business. Mike and Scott break down why your pipeline isn't just a list of opportunities; it's a living document that controls the future of your business. They emphasize that if you dread certain aspects of your work, you have the power to curate your pipeline to avoid those very things, ensuring you're building a future you're excited about.Discover how a truly solid, well-defined pipeline directly translates into increased confidence and greater fluidity in your sales process. When your goals are clearly articulated and genuinely achievable, you'll approach every interaction with more conviction and adaptability.Tune in as Mike and Scott share their signature blend of hard-hitting sales wisdom and engaging banter, helping you ditch the pipedreams and start building a robust, realistic, and profitable pipeline that empowers you to control your destiny in sales.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach

Send us a textEver feel like there aren't enough hours in the day to truly build the business of your dreams? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott are joined by an incredible trio: Aaron Skinner, Alex Skinner, and PJ Howland, the brilliant minds behind UnsexyBusinessmen.com!This episode is a goldmine for aspiring and current entrepreneurs who are tired of the hustle culture narrative and want practical strategies to regain control of their time. The UnsexyBusinessmen founders reveal their unique philosophy on utilizing the correct resources to effectively give you the time to create, build, and run your own business.They dive into:Identifying and leveraging overlooked resources that free up your most valuable asset: time.How to streamline operations to focus on growth, not just daily tasks.The critical balance between working in your business and working on your business.Real-world insights from their own experiences in building and managing ventures, including the story of Aaron's successful janitorial business exit that proves "unsexy" can be incredibly profitable.If you're looking for honest, actionable advice on how to stop trading hours for dollars and start building a truly sustainable and thriving enterprise, Aaron, Alex, and PJ bring the goods. Mike and Scott ensure the conversation is packed with their signature humor and sharp questions, making complex business principles accessible and engaging.Tune in to discover how to strategically reclaim your time and put it to work building the business you've always envisioned.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach