Ready Yet?! With Erin Marcus

On this episode of the Ready Yet podcast, I'm thrilled to be joined by Jeff West, the co-author of 'Streetwise to Saleswise'. We chat about the art of storytelling in sales, the concept of 'fusion points,' and how emotions and logic collaborate in decision making. Jeff shares incredible insight from his book, drawn from his vast experience in sales, including a fascinating story about how a moment in New Orleans inspired an entire storyline. We also dive deep into handling objections, the importance of empathy in sales, and the impact of building genuine relationships. Jeff even gives us a sneak peek into his collaborative event, SalesWise Live. 

GUEST RESOURCES

Jeff West is the coauthor of the business/sales parable, Streetwise to Saleswise, along with international bestselling author and sales authority, Bob Burg. He’s the coauthor, along with Direct Sales Legend Lisa M. Wilber, of the bestselling business parable, Said the Lady with the Blue Hair. And he’s the author of the heartwarming business/sales parable, The Unexpected Tour Guide. All three parables earned accolades; two from Axiom Business Book Awards®, two from The National Indie Excellence Awards® and one from The American Bookfest Awards. 

https://jeffcwest.com

www.fusionpoints.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcwest

https://x.com/JeffCWestAuthor

https://www.facebook.com/jeff.west.330

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My guest on this episode of the Ready Yet?! podcast, is Joe Casabona, podcast systems coach and software engineer. Join us as we dive into the concept of achieving more by working less. Joe shares his journey from selling mixed CDs in high school to becoming a successful podcaster with over a decade of experience. We discuss the importance of creating efficient workflows, automating tasks, and focusing on quality over quantity. Joe emphasizes the significance of having the right mindset and strategies to work smarter, not harder. Whether you're a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur, Joe's insights on balancing work with life and leveraging technology to reduce workload are invaluable. 

GUEST RESOURCES

Joe Casabona is podcast systems coach who helps busy solopreneurs take back their time. Some even say he perfectly blends content creation and technology like it’s the best cup of coffee you’ve ever had (he says that). Joe's strategies come from his many years of experience: over 10 years creating podcasts, more than 15 years teaching, and over 20 years as a web developer.

https://casabona.org

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcasabona

https://www.youtube.com/@JoeCasa

https://www.instagram.com/jcasabona

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On this episode of the Ready Yet?! podcast I am taking a dive deep into the complexities of brand evolution with Rachel Gogos of Brand ID. 

Join us as we explore the challenges businesses face as they grow, transitioning from personal to business brands and vice versa. Rachel shares invaluable strategies on maintaining a dynamic online presence, including website development, content marketing, and podcast production. We discuss setting long-term goals, the importance of consistent messaging, and how to effectively utilize social media to connect with your audience. Whether you're looking to refresh your brand or differentiate yourself in a crowded market, you will definitely want to check this out! 

GUEST RESOURCES

Rachel Gogos is the founder and CEO of brandiD–a web and content marketing agency that helps you build your brand and business by aligning your profession with your soul’s work. Before launching the brandiD, Rachel was an editor at The Wall Street Journal and a communications specialist at the United Nations. Most recently, she authored Build Your Brand: The Soul-Based Guide to Digital Marketing and is the host of the Business of You Podcast.    

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelgogos

https://thebrandid.com 

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-business-of-you-with-rachel-gogos/id1605697913

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In this episode of the Ready Yet?!  Podcast I am talking to Daniel Andrews about the art of genuine networking, connections, and relationship building—key elements that have been instrumental in both my and Daniel's business success. From the importance of mutuality and strategic relationship investments to the nuances of giving and receiving correctly, Daniel shares actionable insights and personal anecdotes that highlight his journey and expertise. 

GUEST RESOURCES

Daniel Andrews is a native of Columbia, South Carolina where he currently resides after an absence of 13 years. He owns a business that shows businesspeople how to identify, find, meet, and nurture professional relationships with Key Referral Partners. Fundamentally, he shows businesspeople how to STOP “networking,” and START building true networks. This is his fourth career; he’s been successfully self-employed for 35 years (49 if you start with the lemonade stand in first grade). 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/niasoutheast

https://danielpatrickandrews.com

https://www.facebook.com/DanAndrewsNIA

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In this episode of the 'Ready Yet' podcast I’m speaking with Kendra Corman, a seasoned marketer with over 10 years of experience helping small businesses and nonprofits. We discuss her journey from the corporate world to running her own successful marketing firm, along with the challenges of restructuring our businesses post-pandemic, the importance of managing meetings, and balancing work to avoid burnout. Kendra shares how AI has revolutionized her workflow, allowing her to save countless hours. We also delve into the emotional aspects of delegation and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This episode is packed with insightful strategies and mindset shifts essential for any entrepreneur looking to optimize their business.

GUEST RESOURCES 

Kendra Corman is the founder of KendraCorman.com and H2H Consulting, leveraging her vast marketing expertise to support small businesses and nonprofits. Kendra made her mark by leading campaigns for the iconic Jeep brand and significantly contributing to a top insurance wholesaler as their marketing director. Her journey reflects a passion for meaningful change and the power of strategic marketing. Holding degrees from Penn State University in Advertising and Public Relations, a Masters of Accounting from Oakland University, and an MBA, Kendra's love for learning and teaching shines through. 

FREE Guide: Five Ways to Leverage Your Marketing 

https://courses.kendracorman.com/5-ways-leverage-AI-in-marketing 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendracorman

https://kendracorman.com

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“I don’t want to be a sleazy salesperson.” “Sales gives me anxiety!” “I’m not good at sales.” If any of these statements resonate with you, you don’t want to miss this episode of the Ready Yet?! Podcast. My guest is Diane Helbig and we are diving into our experiences and talking about how to overcome fears in sales. Join us as we discuss the misconceptions surrounding 'soft skills', the fear of being 'salesy', and how to approach sales without feeling manipulative. Diane shares valuable insights on shifting from a sales mode to a learning mode, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and genuine connection in sales. She discusses the detrimental impact of AI tools when used improperly, and the importance of understanding the value of your product or service. Tune in to learn how to enjoy the sales process and connect with your audience authentically.

GUEST RESOURCES

Diane Helbig is a business advisor, trainer, award-winning author, speaker, and podcast host. As president of Helbig Enterprises, Diane helps businesses and organizations operate more constructively and profitably.   Diane is passionate about guiding business professionals through the challenges of planning and growing a business. From leadership to strategic planning to sales training, Diane provides her clients with expertise based on over 20 years of business leadership and sales experience.  Diane is the author of Succeed Without Selling, Lemonade Stand Selling, and Expert Insights, and is the host of Accelerate Your Business Growth podcast. Diane is a member of the NAWBO Cleveland, and the Ashland University Women in Leadership Advisory Boards. 

https://www.helbigenterprises.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhelbig

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/accelerate-your-business-growth/id385108650

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Did you know that the right words at the right time can transform your business? My guest today is Aurora Winter, a successful serial entrepreneur and the founder of Same Page Publishing. Aurora shares her journey from yacht sales to film production and publishing, emphasizing the power of communication and effective storytelling. We dive into the process of crafting a million-dollar message, leveraging neuroscience in communication, and the importance of always adding value. Aurora also introduces her spoken author method, highlights her award-winning books, and explains how to reverse-engineer business success. Join us as we explore practical tips for turning words into wealth and making a significant impact in any industry.

GUEST RESOURCES

Aurora Winter, MBA, is an award-winning, bestselling author. She is a successful serial entrepreneur, media trainer, creator of the Spoken Author™ method, and founder of Same Page Publishing. She left her lucrative career as a TV executive decades ago to become a full-time author, trainer, and entrepreneur. Using storytelling for business, she created a life of freedom, creativity, and contribution. Now she helps her clients turn their words into wealth, wisdom, and wonder.

https://aurorawinter.com  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aurorawinter

https://x.com/aurorawintermba

Get Your Free Thought Leader Launch Starter Library 

https://www.samepagepublishing.com/ 

Aurora Winter Fiction:  Magic Mystery and the Multiverse

Purchase the trilogy, including Aurora's newest book! 

https://www.aurorawinter.com/magic 

https://www.instagram.com/aurorafantasybooks 

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On this episode of the Ready Yet?! Podcast I am excited to share my conversation with my guest Spencer Carpenter, founder of Outlier. Audio. Spencer shares his incredible journey from working in the music industry to founding a successful podcast booking agency. We dive into the challenges he faced when the music industry shut down in 2020, and how he pivoted to create new opportunities for himself and others. Spencer’s approach to transitioning skill sets into new fields is truly inspiring. If you want to learn about resilience, adapting in times of crisis, and leveraging your talents in new ways, then you don’t want to miss this episode. Tune in to hear all about Spencer’s transformation and how you can apply similar strategies in your own life.

GUEST RESOURCES

Spencer Carpenter is the founder of Outlier Audio, a full-service podcast booking agency that represents talented entrepreneurs, business professionals, and investors, specializing in real estate investors. Prior to being in the podcasting space, Spencer spent over a decade working in the music industry, taking on various roles including talent management and representation, event and festival organizing, record label head, and more. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-carpenter-49988166/

https://www.instagram.com/spencercarpenter

https://www.outlieraudio.com

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AI tools are a hot topic right now, so I am excited to share this episode of the Ready Yet?! Podcast with guest Anika Jackson, a multifaceted podcaster, consultant, and educator at USC Annenberg. Listen in as she shares her journey from a club promoter in Kansas City to her dynamic roles in marketing, PR, and AI consultancy. We also dive into how AI tools can be used effectively in small businesses, emphasizing the importance of human connection and brand authenticity. Annika also shares her thoughts on the evolving landscape of AI, practical steps for small business owners, and how staying true to your brand's essence can drive success. 

GUEST RESOURCES

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson

https://yourbrandamplified.com

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYBpCEEQb7_N9s1krea4fWQ

https://www.tiktok.com/@amplifywithanika

https://www.instagram.com/yourbrandamplified

https://www.facebook.com/amplifywithanika

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My guest today is Taylor Thomas, Business Strategist, Consultant, Podcaster, Speaker, Founder of Thomas Endurance Coaching and Co-Founder of Impact Initiative. Listen in as we take a dive deep into the importance of team dynamics, leadership, and the concept of 'false heroics' in business. Taylor shares his journey from a solo entrepreneur to a passionate advocate for team-based success. We also explore the concepts of creating an empowering work environment, the value of hiring for strengths, and why exceptional outcomes require a brave and collaborative approach. 

GUEST RESOURCES

https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-thomas-17b11832

https://www.thomasendurancecoaching.com

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVaXQnnWiBiwemwZDeMAuMg

https://www.facebook.com/thomasendurancecoaching

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