Proverbs 27-17: Iron Sharpens Iron. Today, Brent Marriott, a seasoned executive in the wireless telephone industry, warmly shares how his own 'iron' was sharpened and the ways he happily helps sharpen others.

The Most Dangerous Competitor You’ll Ever Face Isn’t Human

In sales, leadership, and the marketplace, we often think our biggest competition is the company two aisles over at the trade show. But for many of us, the real enemy is the status quo—and its parent, the comfort zone monster.

In the marketplace, have you ever felt the pressure to promote yourself… to prove your value… to make sure people notice your accomplishments?

Proverbs 25 gives us a surprising piece of wisdom: “Don’t boast about yourself before the king… it is better for him to say, ‘Come up here,’ than to demote you in front of others.”

In other words, wisdom doesn’t chase recognition. It earns it.

Have you ever done business with someone who looked perfect on paper… but deep down, something just didn’t feel right? Today, our focus is Proverbs 24:1 because it’s the 24th day of the month.

“Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company, for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.” — Proverbs 24:1 NIV.

I share an experience that my friend and co-author, Jon Kluiter, had—one that taught us both what we now call gut-check wisdom.

There is a difference between punishment and discipline. Today, Ron Price and I discuss the difference based on Proverbs 23

When the market shakes or a mistake is made, one thing will carry you forward—relationship equity. Today, we’re in Proverbs 20:28 because it’s the 20th day of the month.

If you want to grow your business, your impact, and your legacy… the real question isn’t, “What do I know?” but “Who am I listening to?” Today, we’re in Proverbs 19:20— because it’s the 19th day of the month.

Have you ever jumped in with an answer… Only to realize later that you hadn’t even fully heard the question?

I’ve been there. In meetings, I’ve spoken too soon—offering solutions I thought were brilliant—until I realized I was solving the wrong problem… because I hadn’t taken time to listen first. Today, we’re in Proverbs 18:13— because it’s the 18th day of the month.

In the marketplace, have you ever noticed that the wisest person in the room is often the one talking the least?

Proverbs 17 says, “A truly wise person uses few words… even fools are thought wise when they keep silent.”

That’s a powerful reminder for leaders, sales professionals, and anyone serving customers.

Sometimes wisdom isn’t about saying more — it’s about listening more… pausing more… and responding with clarity instead of noise.

Today, my guest, Chris Shrader, and I are going to explore why restraint in our words can reveal the depth of our wisdom.

In the marketplace, have you ever seen success quietly turn into ego?

Proverbs 16:18 warns us: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

That’s why one of the biggest leadership battles isn’t talent — it’s ego.

In Marketplace Proverbs, I often say the opposite of ego is humility.

And humility is what keeps success from becoming your downfall.