Mental Selling: The Sales Performance Podcast

True sales success is about growth, intentionality, and staying true to your values.Jacob Hicks, sales success coach and leadership mentor, shares practical strategies for breaking through comfort zones with consistent, value-based follow-up, mastering time management through tools like time blocking and ‘chaos time,’ and creating sustainable success by aligning sales activity with personal growth and intentional living. Jacob has worked with leaders across corporate, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial spaces. His experience spans from training individuals in sales to empowering business owners to scale their companies. Throughout his journey, Jacob has learned that true sales success comes from more than just hitting targets. It’s about cultivating a mindset that aligns personal growth with professional achievement. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to yourself and how being intentional with your time, goals, and relationships can be your greatest competitive advantage in an ever-changing market.In this episode, you’ll learn:Breaking Through Comfort Zones: Why sales success comes from consistently stepping outside your comfort zone.The Power of Follow-up: How consistently following up with value increases your chances of success.Time Management Strategies: How to implement time-blocking, including the concept of ‘chaos time,’ to protect your calendar and mental space.Intentional Living: How intentionality in balancing work, play, and rest leads to greater personal and professional fulfillment.Resources:Jacob Hicks’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-hicks-b7154a121/ Jacob Hicks’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobhickscoach/ Learn more about Jacob Hicks: https://jacobhickscoach.com/ Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Jacob Hicks(02:58) Jacob’s journey into sales and coaching(04:28) Working with young leaders and college students(07:01) Stepping outside your comfort zone(10:47) The power of consistent follow-up in sales(13:32) Time management strategies for sales professionals(19:45) Balancing work, play, and personal growth(22:05) Rapid-fire questions

You can beat the competition. You can’t survive confusion.Garin Hess, founder of Consensus and author of Selling is Hard. Buying is Harder. joins the show to share why making it easier for people to buy should be every sales team’s mission. Drawing from his background in learning and development, Garin explains how buyer enablement transforms selling from product pitches into personalized coaching experiences that empower champions and engage entire buying groups. He reflects on the dangers of “peace mongering” in leadership, how personalization at scale changes buying dynamics, and why emotional ROI matters more than we often acknowledge in B2B. Garin also shares real stories from the field, including one painful lesson about the risks of not mapping the entire buying group.In this episode, you’ll learn:Buyer Enablement Mindset: Why putting the buyer’s needs ahead of your own can accelerate deals.From Champions to Buying Groups: How to equip and coach champions to influence every stakeholder.Preventing Deal Killers: Practical ways to reduce confusion, friction, and dysfunction in the buying process.Emotional ROI: Why career risk, trust, and purpose play a bigger role in buying decisions than logic alone.Resources:Garin Hess’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garin-hess/  Learn more about Consensus: https://goconsensus.com/ Learn more about Buyer Enablement: https://goconsensus.com/buyer-enablement/Learn more about Selling is Hard. Buying is Harder: https://www.amazon.com/Selling-Hard-Buying-Harder-Enablement/dp/1632992949 Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Garin Hess(02:16) From Utah roots to leadership lessons(05:23) How learning and development shaped his sales approach(08:02) Why buying is harder than selling(11:42) Breaking through buyer confusion and dysfunction(20:15) Measuring impact through metrics and emotional ROI(23:25) The role of trust and purpose in the future of B2B sales(26:37) Sales war stories and lessons learned the hard way

Effective communication under pressure isn’t just a sports skill, it’s a sales advantage.Jen Mueller, longtime sports broadcaster and founder of Talk Sporty to Me, has spent over two decades asking high-stakes questions in high-pressure moments. From NFL sidelines to MLB dugouts, Jen shares how the fundamentals of sports communication translate directly to business success. It may not be flashy, but instead they’re built on consistency, preparation, clarity, and emotional awareness under pressure. She also reveals what sales professionals can learn from sideline interviews, game-day prep, and the power of showing up. She explains how to make your conversations count, build trust through repetition, and deliver feedback that actually moves the needle, because impactful communication doesn’t require long meetings. It often comes down to brief, well-prepared, intentional interactions.In this episode, you’ll learn:Game-Time Communication: Why preparation and clarity lead to more meaningful business conversations.The Power of Consistency: How small, everyday moments build long-term trust and influence.Authenticity and Feedback: The secret to giving (and receiving) high-impact coaching that drives performance.Make It Easy to Respond: Why framing your questions well leads to better answers and faster progress.Resources:Jen Mueller’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenmuellertalksporty/ Learn more about Talk Sporty To Me: https://www.talksportytome.com/ Learn more about I Cook, You Measure: https://www.talksportytome.com/ICookYouMeasure Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Jen Mueller(01:11) Jen’s journey into sports broadcasting(02:51) Career milestones and sideline stories(05:42) What sports taught Jen about business communication(07:59) The power of preparation and consistency(19:58) Giving feedback and celebrating small wins(30:19) Lightning round and a final communication tip

Resilience, trust, and personalization are the key ingredients for sales leadership success in today’s evolving market. Brad Jung, Managing Director, Head of North America, Advisor & Intermediary Solutions at Russell Investments, reflects on his journey from a paper route to leading digital strategy and sales teams. He talks about how the focus in sales has shifted from simply pushing products to truly understanding and meeting client needs. Brad also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and nurturing emerging sales talent. He explains how a culture of continuous learning and personal development is key to long-term success.In this episode, you’ll learn:The Power of Resilience: Why top performers excel by staying adaptable through highs and lows.Building Relationships at Scale: How trust and deep listening drive successful sales conversations.The Importance of Personalization: Why leading with process, not just product, sets great salespeople apart.Investing in the Future: How creating a learning culture helps sales teams grow and thrive, and why mentorship plays a key role in team development.Resources:Brad Jung’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradjung/ Learn more about Russell Investments: https://russellinvestments.com/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Brad Jung(02:12) Brad’s journey into financial services(03:57) The mission of financial services(05:52) The importance of personal connection in sales(06:59) Adapting to technology in sales(08:46) Key traits of top performers(11:17) Building trust and emotional connection(13:52) A personal success story(20:41) Training the next generation of sales talent(23:49) Timeless skills and career-changing moments

Building authentic connections through marketing is more important than ever, especially in an age of automation.Em Holldorf, Director of Demand Generation at Integrity Solutions, shares how a human-first mindset has guided her career—from organic farming to edtech. She explains why purpose, values, and collaboration are the backbone of effective marketing, especially when resources are tight. Em also reflects on real lessons from the field and why authentic conversations, not polished messaging, are the future of marketing.In this episode, you’ll learn:Marketing with Purpose: Why aligning to values and mission creates more meaningful results.Cross-Functional Collaboration: How to break down silos and build momentum across teams.Creativity Over Budget: The mindset shift that turns constraints into innovation.Authenticity in the AI Age: How to bring back the human touch in content, email, and brand storytelling.Resources:Em Holldorf’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-holldorf/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation:(00:21) Meet Em Holldorf(03:13) Em’s journey into marketing(05:47) Career highlights and industry shifts(10:42) The importance of human-centric marketing(22:09) Marketing war stories: Trade show chaos(24:41) Upcoming events and conferences(25:30) Marketing trends: The human touch in the age of AI(29:19) Excitement for the future at Integrity Solutions

Connecting with others through a screen isn't easy, but it’s now essential.Lauren Deal, former live TV host and current facilitator at Integrity Solutions, shares how her background in broadcasting shaped the way she builds trust quickly, stays grounded under pressure, and brings energy to every conversation. She explains how sales professionals can adapt the same mindset to connect more deeply with customers and lead with presence.From storytelling with emotional stakes to managing impostor syndrome in real time, Lauren breaks down what it takes to build meaningful relationships in high-stakes conversations. She also shares practical ways to improve your virtual presence, reset your mindset before a big call, and deliver your message with confidence.In this episode, you’ll learn:Confidence on Camera: How to show up as yourself and speak with purpose.Storytelling That Connects: Ways to frame your message so it resonates and sticks.Emotional Intelligence in Action: Tips for reading the room and adjusting with intention.Virtual Presence: Simple changes to build stronger connection through the screen.Resources:Lauren Deal’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tvhostlaurendeal/ Lauren Deal’s website: https://www.masterymediatraining.com/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Lauren Deal(02:53) From kindergarten classroom to live TV(05:00) Storytelling tips that make messages stick(07:10) Why emotion drives customer decisions(09:48) Performing under pressure without losing authenticity(11:27) How emotional intelligence shapes sales success(15:53) Building confidence before high-stakes conversations(21:54) Virtual presence mistakes that break connection

Creating a culture of coaching and leading with purpose can transform both people and businesses.Danita High, Senior Vice President of Culture and Employee Development at First Community Bank, shares her journey of implementing a coaching program that nurtures leadership and prevents burnout. She discusses how intentional leadership development can align business strategy with personal growth, all rooted in empathy and trust.Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to recognize signs of burnout, the importance of connecting with employees, and why coaching should be seen as a gift rather than a corrective tool. Danita also emphasizes the significance of creating a culture where every leader feels empowered to grow, and how investing in coaching can lead to profound, lasting change.In this episode, you’ll learn:Leading with Purpose: Learn how to cultivate a leadership mindset that prioritizes people and their growth.Coaching as a Catalyst: Discover how coaching drives engagement, reduces burnout, and fosters sustainable success.Building Buy-In: Strategies for gaining support from all levels, from executives to managers, for coaching programs.Transformational Leadership: Understand the power of empathy and intentionality in shaping a thriving workplace culture.Resources:Danita High’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danita-high-257a5a1a3/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Danita High(02:58) The need for coaching(05:38) Recognizing signs of burnout(09:24) Personalizing coaching for leaders(13:26) Embedding coaching into culture(17:22) Finding culture champions within teams(21:12) Transforming lives through coaching(24:13) Overcoming resistance and hesitations to coaching

Emotional intelligence shapes how top performers lead and sell.Chuck Karvelas, longtime L&D professional in the therapeutics industry, breaks down how neuroscience, empathy, and behavior change drive better outcomes in the life sciences space. With a background in theater and a passion for human connection, Chuck shares how slowing down and listening can shift entire sales conversations.Listeners will take away practical ways to build trust faster, lead with curiosity, and reframe resistance by understanding what’s beneath the surface. Chuck also shares lessons from product launches, team development, and even parenting, all through the lens of mindset and emotional awareness.In this episode, you’ll learn:Client Longevity: Creating outcomes that inspire decades-long partnerships.Sales Culture: Fusing skillset and mindset for stronger performance.Personality Dynamics: Adapting style to meet clients where they are.Purposeful Process: Equipping teams to thrive through uncertainty.Resources:Chuck Karvelas’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-karvelas/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Chuck Karvelas(02:14) Chuck’s path from acting to pharma(04:12) Listening as a leadership advantage(07:14) Empathy drives collaboration in science(10:16) Slow down to create change(14:04) How habits form and stick(20:41) Reframing objections with neuroscience(26:39) Parenting, autism, and awareness

Resilience sets the foundation for meaningful growth in modern sales. Brett Shively, CEO of Integrity Solutions, shares how a people-first mindset, repeatable systems, and core values drive long-term success. With decades of experience in the learning and development space, Brett reflects on what it really means to lead with character and purpose through shifting markets and business uncertainty. Listeners will hear how behavioral awareness, thoughtful process, and a focus on relationships transform sales outcomes. Brett also unpacks the importance of mindset, grit, and how sellers can adapt without losing integrity. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Client Longevity: Creating outcomes that inspire decades-long partnerships. 2. Sales Culture: Fusing skillset and mindset for stronger performance. 3. Personality Dynamics: Adapting style to meet clients where they are. 4. Purposeful Process: Equipping teams to thrive through uncertainty. Resources: Brett Shively’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettshively/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Brett Shively (01:27) Building resilience when sales gets tough (03:52) How process-first selling shaped Brett’s path (05:20) The legacy and impact of Integrity Selling (08:29) Mindset and skill set in sales performance (10:32) Real stories of long-term client success (14:29) Using behavioral styles to build trust (20:24) Selling with integrity in uncertain markets

Performance starts with the foundations, and high performers never lose sight of what got them there. Derek Roberts, President of Roberts Business Group is back with Mental Selling host Hayley Parr to discuss what really drives sales teams to hit their potential. Derek shares stories from his decades in sales leadership, explains why selling is a noble profession, and uncovers the habits and disciplines that separate the best from the rest. Along the way, Derek discusses the qualities of successful sellers, details strategies for effective coaching, and offers an inside look at the Congruence Model from Integrity Solutions. He also reflects on his work with nonprofits, providing inspiration for anyone selling with purpose, regardless of industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Goal Clarity in Action: Why personal ownership of goals outpaces external targets. 2. Coaching Beyond the Basics: How leaders develop professionalism and productivity. 3. Navigating Change: Techniques for thriving when markets shift or growth slows. 4. Mission-Driven Selling: Real-world lessons for connecting purpose to productivity in any organization. Resources: Derek Roberts’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekroberts1/ Learn more about Roberts Business Group: https://www.robertsbg.com/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Derek Roberts (02:10) Derek’s journey: Childhood sales to coaching (06:59) High-performing sales teams: Goal clarity and drive (09:32) Pre-call planning: Big goals vs. conversation goals (13:52) Moving beyond transactional sales (20:38) The Congruence Model: Aligning motivation with performance (24:33) Overcoming misalignment in sales teams (27:53) Sales in nonprofits: Mission, margin, and impact (33:06) AI, physical intelligence, and preparing to sell

Courage is key to shaping the future of sales and leadership. Duncan Taylor, COO and SVP of the Washington Bankers Association, reveals how attributes such as bravery, ethics, and understanding drive success in evolving industries. With a career that ranges from technology startups to nonprofit work, Duncan offers a refreshing take on developing talent and building effective leaders. Listeners will gain insight into the challenges of hiring and retention, the balance between innovation and compliance, and the significant impact of coaching on workforce performance In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Courageous Leadership: Embracing fearlessness and integrity in decision-making. 2. Pathways to Inclusion: Expanding talent pipelines beyond traditional parameters. 3. Power of Mentorship: Fostering authentic human connections to maximize growth. 4. Cultural Transformation: Aligning compliance with community-centric initiatives for equitable access. Resources: Duncan Taylor’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncanjtaylor/ Learn more about Washington Bankers Association: https://www.wabankers.com/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Duncan Taylor (04:54) Addressing pain points: hiring and retention trends (05:38) Bridging the generational talent gap (08:38) Inclusion and compliance in financial services (10:26) The power of coaching in millennial and Gen Z engagement (17:03) The evolving perception of sales in banking (20:05) Continuous learning in a rapidly changing industry (24:18) Embracing integrity and values-based sales (27:35) The influence of integrity selling on leadership

Selling with integrity is how lasting relationships are truly built. Mike O’Brien, EVP of Sales at Integrity Solutions, shares how values like trust, honesty, and curiosity shape the way great sellers show up for their clients. With a background that spans marketing, product, and sales leadership, Mike brings a unique perspective on what it really means to be an advocate for the buyer. You’ll also hear Mike break down why coaching matters, how to lead under pressure, and what sales teams often overlook when it comes to data and alignment. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Building Real Credibility: Why small, consistent actions matter more than big pitches. 2. Early-Career Coaching: How to help new reps develop confidence without relying on pressure tactics. 3. Data with Purpose: The role of CRM, KPIs, and clean handoffs in stronger go-to-market execution. 4. Redefining Success: Why long-term relationships—and not just quota—measure true sales impact. Resources: Mike O’Brien’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/execleadership/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Mike O’Brien (02:39) Mike’s path from marketing to sales leadership (04:51) Redefining the role of a modern salesperson (06:30) How small moments build lasting credibility (10:56) When integrity is tested in high-pressure deals (13:03) Coaching early-career reps through the noise (17:20) Why sales data matters more than you think (20:26) What success looks like beyond hitting quota

It’s a new chapter for Mental Selling. Hayley Parr, Head of Marketing at Integrity Solutions, steps in as the new host, bringing a marketer’s perspective to sales. While she’s never carried a quota, she knows that great sales and marketing go hand in hand—and she’s here to listen, learn, and lead meaningful conversations. The essence of the show isn’t changing. This is still your go-to destination for sales insights and expertise, and Hayley is excited to learn from sales leaders and hear real stories about what drives success in today’s market. Tune in as Mental Selling continues to explore how mindset, connection, and purpose fuel better sales outcomes. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Why confidence, curiosity, and resilience set top performers apart. 2. How better collaboration leads to stronger customer relationships and results. 3. Why understanding your audience is the key to effective sales and marketing strategies. Resources: Connect with Hayley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-parr-mba-519b4a43/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Hayley Parr (00:39) Why sales and marketing work better together (02:41) The mindset shift that drives sales success (05:33) What’s next for Mental Selling

In sales, there exists a set of special habits that can turn an ordinary seller into a sales unicorn, someone who stands out and excels beyond expectations. These habits aren't magic spells or superpowers; they're simple practices anyone can adopt and master with dedication and effort. In this conversation, William Vanderbloemen, author, CEO and Founder of Vanderbloemen Search Group, discusses the importance of mastering these 12 unicorn habits for sales excellence. He shares personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate how each habit plays a crucial role in sales success. From being fast in responding to inquiries to cultivating authenticity and solving problems, William highlights the practicality and effectiveness of these habits in building trust and driving sales. Furthermore, William encourages salespeople to start with the habits that resonate most with them or come easiest, building momentum as they progress. Tune in to learn and take the first step towards becoming a sales unicorn today. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why becoming irreplaceable in sales hinges not on self-promotion but in the art of attentive listening and genuine interest in others. - The power of aligning sales efforts with a higher purpose to resonate with customers and drive growth and profitability toward the brand. - How authenticity, purpose-driven selling, self-awareness, and integrity can revolutionize your approach to sales and will set you apart in a crowded marketplace. - The importance of thorough hiring processes helps companies minimize the risk of hiring mistakes and ensure to building of high-performing teams that drive sales success. - The power of deflecting conversations that creates space for customers to express themselves fully and make them feel heard. Jump into the conversation: [00:00] Introduction [04:20] The Habit of Being Fast [11:21] How to be Authentic in Sales [18:24] Be Driven by a North Star [25:25] Avoiding Hiring Mistakes [31:42] Why Self-Awareness is Rare [34:27] On Punctuality and Integrity William Vanderbloemen is an entrepreneur, pastor, speaker, author, CEO, and Founder of Vanderbloemen Search Group, an executive search firm serving churches, ministries, and faith-based organizations. Before founding Vanderbloemen Search Group, William studied executive search under a mentor with over 25 years of executive search at the highest level. His learning taught him the best corporate practices, including the search strategies used by the internationally known firm Russell Reynolds. These experiences have come together with his pastoral work to form a unique gift for helping churches and ministries build great teams by finding their key staff. Resources: Follow William on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/williamvanderbloemen/ On X/Twitter: twitter.com/VanderbloemenSG William's website: Vanderbloemen.com William’s Books: Be the Unicorn, 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest; Culture Wins

Salespeople face a multitude of challenges including burnout or understanding their why, all of which can hinder personal growth. Because of this, it’s crucial to cultivate resilience, clarify roles, and foster open dialogue to combat these issues and enhance overall well-being. Jaclynn Robinson, Executive Coach and Senior Workplace Consultant, assists clients who seek to improve performance and business outcomes through sociocultural drivers. Her focal points at Gallup are in Strengths-Based development, workplace practices, and development training to improve performance and business outcomes. In this conversation, Jaclynn discusses the challenges salespeople face in maintaining their well-being and performance in the workplace. She explains the importance of self-awareness to recognize burnout. Join us as she shares her insight on how sales professionals can build resilience and navigate burnout in their role. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Why Burnout is a Sales Killer: How recognizing early signs of burnout can help salespeople protect their well-being and stay engaged in their work. 2. The Power of Strengths-Based Selling: Why focusing on natural talents leads to better performance, job satisfaction, and long-term success. 3. Saying No to Say Yes: How setting boundaries and managing commitments can prevent overwork and create a more sustainable sales career. 4. The Role of Accountability Partners: Why peer mentorship and manager support are essential for maintaining motivation and avoiding burnout. 5. Aligning Values with Sales Success: How understanding your personal values strengthens relationships with customers and drives meaningful impact. Resources: Jaclynn’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynnrobinson Learn more about Jaclynn: www.jaclynnrobinson.com Gallup: www.gallup.com Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Dr. Jacqueline Robinson (00:57) The rise of burnout in sales—and why it’s still a major issue (02:50) How well-being and strengths-based development impact sales performance (06:10) Thriving vs. struggling: Identifying patterns in your work habits (09:45) Overcommitment and the dangers of always being “on” in sales (12:30) The value of accountability partners and peer mentorship (16:00) Why salespeople struggle to say no—and how to set boundaries (19:20) Aligning personal values with sales success (22:40) Strengths-based development: What it is and why it matters (27:15) How to work with your manager to gain role clarity (30:40) Building resilience to handle sales pressure and rejection (33:00) Final thoughts: How to create a sustainable, fulfilling sales career

Scott Ingram is a sales expert and podcast host who has interviewed top performers in the industry to uncover the secrets to their success. He is passionate about helping salespeople understand the importance of mindset, belief, and productivity in achieving success. Better said, he helps salespeople unlock their superpower. In this episode, Scott reveals how top sales performers achieve high performance through self-belief, productivity, and customer knowledge. He challenges the lazy management-by-numbers approach and even breaks down unfair stereotypes about sales. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. The Mindset of Top Performers: Why belief in your product, your process, and yourself, is the foundation of high sales performance. 2. How Sales Superpowers Drive Success: The top 1% of sales professionals leverage their unique strengths instead of trying to fit a one-size-fits-all playbook. 3. Coaching Beyond the Numbers: Why great sales leaders don’t just manage metrics, they help reps uncover their ‘why’ and build confidence in their approach. 4. Rethinking Quotas and Compensation: How traditional quota structures may be demotivating your team, and what a more effective, psychology-driven model looks like. 5. Content as a Relationship Builder: Why high-impact sales professionals use content to open doors, create trust, and strengthen customer relationships. Resources: - Scott’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/scottingram/ - Sales Success Stories Podcast: top1.fm/all-sales-podcast-episodes/ - Daily Sales Tips Podcast: podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly…QAAAAAQAQ&hl=en Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Scott Ingram (01:20) What sets top 1% sales performers apart (02:40) The three core beliefs that drive sales success (05:00) Why mindset is more important than sales tactics (07:10) Redefining sales as a service profession (10:15) Coaching beyond the numbers: Developing belief and confidence (14:00) How top performers identify and lean into their sales superpowers (18:30) Quotas, compensation, and the psychology of motivation (23:00) Why salespeople should focus on customer knowledge over product knowledge (27:40) The role of content in relationship-building and sales success (32:00) Goal setting vs. habit setting: What really drives performance (36:30) The biggest leadership mistake: Promoting top sellers into management (42:00) What today’s buyers really want from sales professionals (47:00) The mindset shift that takes you from good to top 1%

In sales, the right culture can make or break your results. Bob Kelly, Chairman of the Sales Management Association, discusses why a thriving sales culture is essential for success. He explains how ethical practices, transparency, and a commitment to continuous learning shape the foundation of high-performing teams. In this episode, Bob also highlights the critical role that sales managers play in nurturing a positive culture, attracting top talent, and ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. The Link Between Sales Culture and Success: How a strong, ethical sales culture can directly impact performance, talent retention, and customer relationships. 2. Coaching as the Secret to Growth: Why coaching should be a priority for sales leaders and how it drives continuous improvement within sales teams. 3. Building Trust Internally to Drive Results: How trust within your sales organization leads to better customer interactions and stronger team cohesion. 4. Goal Setting with Transparency: The importance of clear, fair, and collaborative goal-setting processes in shaping a positive, high-performing sales culture. Resources: Bob Kelly’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertjkelly/ Sales Management Association: https://salesmanagement.org/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Bob Kelly (02:15) Why sales culture is more important than ever (05:30) The role of trust in sales teams (09:00) Sales coaching: the key to continuous growth (12:40) Building trust internally to drive external results (16:10) The importance of transparent goal setting (20:00) Sales enablement and the power of continuous learning (24:00) Creating a collaborative and ethical sales environment (28:00) How to attract and retain top talent through culture (32:30) The future of sales culture and leadership For more related content and information about improving sales performance, visit us at www.integritysolutions.com/

Feedback is a powerful tool for growth, but how do you create an environment where it becomes part of the culture? In this episode, Dan Greene, Chief Revenue Officer at Radical Candor, shares how feedback shaped his journey from flying planes in the Navy to leading high-performing sales teams at Google. He breaks down the strategies for making feedback more actionable, from real-time debriefs to fostering a collaborative approach where rank doesn’t overshadow learning. He also discusses how leaders can model trust and candor to inspire continuous improvement, and why feedback isn’t just top-down—it’s a two-way street. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. The secret to impactful feedback: Giving feedback an ongoing cadence accelerates team improvement and builds trust. 2. What makes great leaders stand out: Learn how to model trust, candor, and collaboration to inspire growth and connection within your team. 3. Strategies for real-time improvement: Immediate debriefs after sales calls or presentations can dramatically improve outcomes and build confidence. Resources: Dan Greene’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dangreene/ Learn more about Radical Candor: https://www.radicalcandor.com/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Dan Greene (02:15) Why feedback accelerates improvement (04:30) The debriefing process (09:20) Real-time feedback vs. scheduled reviews (12:10) Creating a culture of trust and candor (14:45) How leaders model feedback behaviors (17:00) Preparing for customer engagement (19:35) Feedback in customer relationships (22:10) Asking purposeful questions to drive improvement (25:20) Overcoming fear of giving feedback (28:15) Building trust through integrity and leadership (31:05) Using feedback to retain customers (34:00) Feedback as a leadership tool For more related content and information about improving sales performance, visit us at www.integritysolutions.com/

Success in sales isn’t just about hitting numbers. It’s about creating deeper connections, building trust, and fostering a culture that drives long-term success. In this episode, Kevin Eikenberry, Chief Potential Officer at The Kevin Eikenberry Group and author of upcoming book Flexible Leadership: Navigating Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence, joins Mental Selling for a special 100th episode to share lessons from his 30 years of leadership expertise. Discover how to shape a sales culture that reflects your values, enhance your listening skills to build trust, and embrace flexibility without sacrificing consistency. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Success Redefined—Why sales success is about more than numbers and how aligning goals with purpose leads to deeper satisfaction and stronger results. 2. Flexibility Meets Confidence—How embracing adaptability while staying rooted in your values helps you lead effectively through uncertainty. 3. Process Goals in Action—Focusing on actionable steps and milestones drives results and builds momentum over time. 4. Listening That Builds Trust—Why active listening is a game-changer for strengthening relationships with clients, colleagues, and teams. Resources: Kevin Eikenberry’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevineikenberry/ The Kevin Eikenberry Group: https://kevineikenberry.com/ Kevin Eikenberry’s Books: https://kevineikenberry.com/books/ Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Kevin Eikenberry (06:08) Redefining success in sales beyond quotas (20:33) Why consistency is key to achieving goals (22:44) Shaping a thriving sales culture through shared values (28:04) Building trust by enhancing listening skills (31:50) Breaking the habit of interrupting and becoming a better communicator (36:30) Helping customers connect the dots in problem-solving (40:56) Managing stress and avoiding burnout while achieving ambitious goals For more related content and information about improving sales performance, visit us at www.integritysolutions.com/

Sales is more than just closing deals. It’s about the journey, the connections made, and the lessons learned along the way. In this special year-end episode, host Will Milano looks back at the most impactful conversations of 2024 on Mental Selling, highlighting the episodes and ideas that shaped a year of growth and discovery. From uncovering the power of purpose-driven selling to navigating workplace conflict and fostering authentic relationships, this reflection brings together the strategies and stories that have resonated with sales professionals everywhere. Will revisits the key takeaways from guests who brought fresh perspectives to the art of selling and shares what these insights mean for the future of sales. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. How to build trust through authentic communication: Active listening and showing genuine care in every interaction lay the groundwork for trust and credibility with clients and colleagues. 2. Strategies for embracing conflict: Healthy conflict with clients or coworkers can lead to better solutions, stronger relationships, and a reputation for integrity. 3. Using confidence to fuel success: Confidence isn’t just about what you sell—it’s about knowing your value as a salesperson and creating meaningful connections through authentic selling. 4. Mastering the art of proactive engagement: Engaging early in the buyer’s journey helps you frame problems and position yourself as a trusted advisor, creating more predictable and successful outcomes. Resources: Listen to Sell: How Your Mindset, Skillset, and Human Connections Unlock Sales Performance: www.listentosellbook.com Learn more about Integrity Solutions: www.integritysolutions.com/ Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:02) The core themes of 2024 (03:37) Lisa Earle McLeod on purpose-driven selling (05:25) William Vanderbloemen discusses habits of standout sellers (07:36) Meshell R Baker on confidence and value-first selling (09:58) Liane Davey on effective conflict resolution in sales (12:06) Matt Heinz shares strategies for engaging modern buyers (14:13) Allison Shapira on using authenticity to build trust in sales (15:56) Closing reflections and looking ahead to 2025 For more related content and information about improving sales performance, visit us at www.integritysolutions.com/