Referrals Done Right

In this final episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates reflects on the relationships and lessons that have shaped the podcast over the past two and a half years. What began as a mission to help business owners grow through meaningful connections became something much more personal. Scott shares how the people he's met along the way have challenged his thinking and changed his perspective on success. He's also realized that creating more opportunities and choosing the right opportunities are two very different things.

As Referrals Done Right comes to a close, Scott explains why this transition isn't about leaving the original message behind. It's about exploring bigger questions around time and the lives we're building. He introduces the next chapter with Time Lies, launching November 2nd on the same podcast feed. Before signing off, Scott leaves listeners with one final referral. This time, it's an invitation to reconnect with themselves and consider whether the things they're chasing still reflect what matters most.

In This Episode:
• How two and a half years of meaningful relationships changed Scott's perspective on success.
• Why creating more opportunities doesn't always mean creating a better life.
• The importance of recognizing when your priorities and definition of success have changed.
• What's ahead as Referrals Done Right transitions into Time Lies on November 2nd.
• Scott's final referral and the questions that can help you reconnect with what matters most.

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Scott Grates' Links:
The Magnetic Niche - https://mailchi.mp/wonderlabstrategy/findyourniche
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates sits down with Frank Agin, founder of AmSpirit Business Connections and host of NetworkingRx. Frank shares why so many professionals struggle to ask for referrals and what it really takes to earn someone's trust. They explore how small actions and consistent follow-through can build a reputation that makes people confident in recommending you to others.

Scott and Frank also discuss why the best networking strategies often have nothing to do with generating business. Frank shares stories about the unexpected ways relationships can change lives and explains why giving without keeping score is so important. From making thoughtful introductions to getting involved in your community, the conversation is a reminder that the strongest networks are built by genuinely caring about others.

In This Episode:
• Why fear of rejection holds people back from asking for referrals.
• How trust is earned through patience and consistent everyday actions.
• The difference between giving generously and keeping score in relationships.
• Why thoughtful introductions can create value for everyone involved.
• How volunteering and serving your community can lead to meaningful connections and unexpected opportunities.

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Frank Agin's Links:
Website - https://frankagin.com
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankagin
Podcast - https://networkingrx.libsyn.com/website
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frankagin


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Scott Grates' Links:
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates reflects on how the relationships he's built over the past two and a half years have changed the way he thinks about success. What started as a mission to help business owners grow through meaningful connections has led to some much bigger questions. Scott shares why he's started looking beyond growth and achievement to consider what all that hard work is actually for.

The conversation explores how our priorities can change even when the things we've built are still successful. Scott challenges listeners to question whether they're pursuing goals that still matter or simply holding on to an old definition of success. He also shares what's next for the podcast as Referrals Done Right prepares to transition into Time Lies on November 2nd. While the name and conversations are evolving, the belief in meaningful relationships remains at the heart of what's next.

In This Episode:
• How meaningful relationships have changed Scott's perspective on business and life.
• Why reaching the next milestone doesn't always bring the fulfillment we expect.
• How our identity can keep us chasing goals that no longer align with our priorities.
• Why creating space to reflect can help us recognize when it's time for a new chapter.
• What's ahead as Referrals Done Right prepares to become Time Lies on November 2nd.

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Scott Grates' Links:
The Magnetic Niche - https://mailchi.mp/wonderlabstrategy/findyourniche
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates sits down with business coach and entrepreneur Eva Safar to explore what it really means to build a successful business. After 25 years in the corporate world, Eva realized that financial success and impressive titles weren't giving her the freedom she wanted. She shares how redefining success helped her create a business built around her own values. The conversation challenges business owners to consider whether they're building the life they want or simply staying busy.

Scott and Eva discuss why so many entrepreneurs become the bottleneck in their own businesses. Eva explains how creating space for reflection can lead to better decisions and stronger leadership. They also explore the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge your thinking. Sometimes the biggest breakthrough comes from asking yourself a question you've been avoiding.

In This Episode:
• Why financial success doesn't always translate into personal freedom or fulfillment.
• How business owners become the bottleneck and what it takes to step back.
• Why creating space to think can lead to greater clarity and better decisions.
• The importance of having people who challenge your thinking and hold you accountable.
• How asking better questions can uncover what's really holding you and your business back.

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Eva Safar's Links:
Website - https://www.safartransformations.com
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/esafar
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheAlternativeBoard
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TABDenverNorth


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Scott Grates' Links:
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates explores the hidden cost of always being available to everyone. For business owners and leaders, being responsive and helpful can feel like a measure of success. But constantly saying yes can leave little time for the people and priorities that matter most. Scott challenges listeners to consider whether their desire to be needed is actually preventing them from being intentional with their time.

As business owners begin planning for 2027, Scott encourages a different approach to growth. Instead of focusing only on revenue and new opportunities, he shares three decisions that can help create a better business. The conversation explores protecting your calendar and investing more deeply in the right relationships. Scott also shares an exciting announcement about the next chapter of the podcast and its upcoming transition to Time Lies.

In this episode:
• Why being available to everyone does not always make you more valuable.
• How constantly saying yes can take time away from your most important relationships.
• Three decisions to consider when planning a more intentional business for 2027.
• Why better boundaries and delegation can create more freedom and stronger relationships.
• What's next for the podcast as Referrals Done Right prepares to become Time Lies.

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Scott Grates' Links:
The Magnetic Niche - https://mailchi.mp/wonderlabstrategy/findyourniche
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates sits down with author and leadership coach Dawn Cazedessus to explore how our past can shape the way we approach success. Dawn shares her journey from growing up in a Louisiana trailer park to becoming a CEO. She explains how fear and scarcity continued to influence her decisions long after she escaped poverty. Through her book Trailer Park CEO, Dawn encourages others to recognize the stories holding them back and embrace the lessons that helped shape who they are today.

Scott and Dawn discuss the importance of letting go of false identities and learning to move forward through adversity. Dawn introduces her practical framework for handling failure and explains why gratitude has become a daily discipline in her life. They also explore the value of slowing down to make better decisions. The conversation is a reminder that growth often begins when we release the need to control everything and create space for what matters most.

In This Episode:
• How Dawn's upbringing shaped her mindset and journey to becoming a CEO.
• Why the stories we tell ourselves can keep us from reaching our potential.
• Dawn's FAIL framework for turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.
• How gratitude and an open mindset can help us navigate difficult seasons.
• Why slowing down and creating space can lead to greater clarity in leadership and life.

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Dawn Cazedessus's Links:
Trailer Park CEO Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1424569982
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dcazedes
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-cazedessus-3048a9126
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DawnCazedessus
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dawncazedessus



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Scott Grates' Links:
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates explores why building a bigger network does not always lead to better relationships or more referrals. Through a recent introduction from a trusted connection, Scott shares how quickly meaningful relationships can develop when people share similar values. Sometimes the best opportunities come from finding the right people rather than constantly trying to meet more people.

Scott explains why alignment should matter more than potential business opportunities when choosing who to invest your time in. He challenges listeners to look beyond networking numbers and focus on relationships built around genuine connection. When you surround yourself with people who share your values, introductions can happen naturally without an agenda or expectation of something in return.

In This Episode:
• Why finding the right people matters more than growing your network.
• How shared values can create meaningful connections and natural referrals.
• Why not every client or referral partner is the right fit.
• The importance of building relationships without expecting a business opportunity.
• A simple challenge to strengthen five relationships already in your network.

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Scott Grates' Links:
The Magnetic Niche - https://mailchi.mp/wonderlabstrategy/findyourniche
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates sits down with psychotherapist and coach Karen Conlon to explore what can exist beneath the surface of success. Karen explains how childhood conditioning can shape the way high achievers approach work and relationships. They discuss how the drive to achieve can sometimes come from a need for validation instead of genuine fulfillment.

The conversation explores people pleasing, self-awareness, and the pressure to always have the answer. Karen shares why curiosity can help us build stronger relationships with clients and the people closest to us. She also explains why major transitions can feel like grief when our identity is tied to what we do. The episode is a reminder that success means more when it is aligned with who you actually want to be.

In This Episode:
• How childhood patterns can continue to influence our behavior as adults.
• The difference between achieving from internal fulfillment and seeking external validation.
• Why people pleasing can quietly lead high achievers to ignore their own needs.
• How curiosity and empathy can create deeper relationships at work and at home.
• Why self-awareness can help you redefine success on your own terms.

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Karen Conlon's Links:
Website - https://karenconlon.com
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenconlonlcsw
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy-yaUREWiHBJNxwze7zI4w
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1BxaZasAk68BD5mRkD59cI
IG - https://www.instagram.com/karen_conlon_lcsw



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Scott Grates' Links:
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates challenges the idea that being busy means being productive. A packed calendar and a long to do list can create plenty of movement. That does not always mean you are moving toward something that matters. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is stop long enough to choose the right direction.

Scott shares a simple approach for creating more intention in your work and relationships. Instead of reacting to everything that demands your attention, start by deciding what matters most. That same principle applies to relationship building. One meaningful conversation can create more value than dozens of surface level interactions.

In This Episode:
• Why movement and achievement are not the same thing.
• How busyness can distract us from asking the questions that actually matter.
• Why creating space can help you identify where your attention belongs.
• How to measure relationship building by depth instead of activity.
• Three questions that can help you build each day around purpose and intention.

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Scott Grates' Links:
The Magnetic Niche - https://mailchi.mp/wonderlabstrategy/findyourniche
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott Grates sits down with Jennifer Gomez to explore why joy should not be something we wait to experience after success. Jennifer shares her journey as a high achiever who spent years chasing the next accomplishment. Eventually, she realized achievement alone was not creating the fulfillment she expected.

Jennifer explains how joy can become a strategy for better leadership and a more intentional life. She shares why alignment starts with being honest with yourself. The conversation also explores trust and clear communication within a team. When leaders understand themselves and create space for others to thrive, stronger relationships can lead to meaningful growth.

In This Episode:
• Why joy and happiness are not the same thing.
• How constant achievement can still leave high performers feeling unfulfilled.
• Why alignment begins with getting honest about what you actually want.
• How clarity and trust can help leaders stop putting out fires.
• Why stronger relationships within your team can become a strategy for growth.

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Jennifer Gomez's Links:
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgomez225
Website - https://www.thejoyfulstrategist.com


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Scott Grates' Links:
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates