Relationships Rule

A strong reputation can grow your business faster than any ad—and a single bad impression can undo it just as quickly.

Jennifer Kaplan, founder of Evolve Public Relations, and I, talk about the true power of relationships in business. She shares why PR isn’t just about media buzz—it’s about staying visible, building trust, and showing up with integrity every step of the way. From dealing with a reputation crisis to creating a compelling brand narrative, Jennifer offers insights that are just as useful for entrepreneurs as they are for large organizations.

Jennifer shares why small businesses need to be especially mindful of how they’re seen, both online and in person, and how small gestures—like following up or owning your mistakes—can leave a lasting impact. We also dig into the evolving media landscape, the emotional power of good storytelling, and why curiosity might just be the secret to stronger connections.

Highlights:

• Why small businesses need to protect and nurture their reputation with intention.
• How to stay ahead of communication challenges before they turn into full-blown PR problems.
• Ways to craft a clear, authentic brand message that actually connects with your audience.
• The role of non-verbal communication in shaping how people see and remember your business.
• Why building relationships—and maintaining them—is still the most powerful PR tool you have.

Connect with Jennifer:

Website: www.evolveprandmarketing.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kaplan-b331948

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolveprandmarketing/

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

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Some writers make magic with words—and copywriter and content strategist, Annette Mashi is one of them. I sit down with Annette to talk all things storytelling, learning your voice, and authentic messaging. Annette shares how she helps business owners sound like themselves in their marketing, whether it's through email sequences, blogs, or brand messaging. We get into the power of writing in your own voice, how to make your copy feel personal instead of salesy, and why storytelling builds stronger business relationships.

Annette doesn’t hold back on the behind-the-scenes of her creative process—from helping clients find the right words, to crafting content that resonates and actually gets read. If writing your own content feels like a chore or a mystery, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to get started.

Highlights:

• Tips for finding and writing in your authentic voice—even if you’re not a “writer.”
• The simple copywriting shift that makes emails feel like conversations, not pitches.
• Why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools in building trust and connection.
• How to turn inspiration from everyday life into relatable, engaging content.
• What makes a welcome email sequence work—and how to create one that builds lasting relationships.

Connect with Annette:

Website: https://www.writewizards.com/

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/annettemashi 

Get your Free guide on 3 Steps to Turn Prospects into Paying Clients with Email - https://write-wizards.ck.page/f82d541acf

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

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please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Most businesses lose sales not because they lack leads, but because they fail to nurture the ones they already have.

Doug C. Brown, CEO of CEO Sales Strategies, has seen too many businesses focus on chasing new clients instead of strengthening existing relationships. He breaks down why follow-ups are the real game-changer in sales, how simple tweaks in your approach can dramatically boost conversions, and why trust—not pressure—leads to long-term success.

Doug also shares the math behind sales growth, explaining key metrics that can help business owners refine their process and close more deals. Whether it’s balancing automation with personal connection, leveraging follow-ups, or prioritizing relationship-building, this episode is packed with insights to help you sell smarter.

Highlights:

• Why relationship-building is at the core of sustainable sales growth.
• Find out how follow-ups can dramatically impact your closing rate and revenue.
• Simple sales metrics that reveal where your process needs improvement.
• Understand how to balance automation with a personal touch to build stronger client relationships.
• Insights into why nurturing existing clients is often more valuable than chasing new leads.

Connect with Doug:

Website: https://ceosalesstrategies.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougbrown123

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7mAeOKfTfSMBo5u8jcnROA

CEO Sales Strategies Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-sales-strategies/id1560405867

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Stepping out of a corporate career and into entrepreneurship isn’t just a job change—it’s a mindset shift that can make or break your success.

David Shriner, host of Smashing the Plateau and business strategist, knows what it takes to navigate that transition. After spending 28 years in the corporate world, he made the leap into entrepreneurship and discovered firsthand the challenges of networking, marketing, and selling yourself. Now, he helps professionals—who he calls "corporate refugees"—build thriving businesses by creating meaningful relationships, leveraging their existing skills, and developing strong support systems.

In this conversation, David shares how new entrepreneurs can break out of their corporate habits, find the right communities, and create lasting success through strategic connections.

From understanding the power of networking to learning how to position yourself in a new industry, this episode is packed with insights to help anyone making the leap into business ownership.

Highlights:

• Learn how to shift from a corporate mindset to an entrepreneurial one, so you can build a business with confidence.
• Discover the importance of surrounding yourself with the right network and finding communities that support your growth.
• Understand why selling yourself is different from selling a company’s product—and how to do it effectively.
• Find out how to use your existing connections strategically while also expanding your reach in new ways.
• Get practical advice on staying consistent, building relationships, and creating a referral network that fuels long-term success.

Connect with David:

Website: https://SmashingThePlateau.com

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/davidshrinercahn

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can

subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and

greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Automation and AI should make business easier—not strip away the personal connections that make it thrive.

Shaun Whynacht, founder of Blue Cow Marketing, has spent over a decade helping businesses use automation without losing the human touch. He believes that the right technology should free up time for deeper client relationships, not replace them. Shaun shares how small business owners can use AI and automation to streamline processes, manage follow-ups, and create more meaningful interactions with clients. From using AI tools to enhancing communication, to creating personalized follow-up systems, Shaun shows how automation can help you work smarter while keeping relationships at the heart of your business.

Highlights:

• Find out how automation can save time on repetitive tasks while keeping your business personal and engaging.
• Learn how to categorize tasks so you know what to automate, delegate, or eliminate for maximum efficiency.
• Discover AI-powered tools that improve follow-ups, note-taking, and client communication without feeling robotic.
• Explore ways to use automation to enhance—not replace—genuine relationship-building with clients.
• Get practical strategies to streamline your workflow and free up time for high-value business activities.

Connect with Shaun:

Website: https://www.bluecowmarketing.ca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunwhynacht

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can

subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and

greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

The way you think about money is just as important as how you spend or save it.

Chad Hufford brings a fresh perspective to financial planning, showing how shifting your mindset around money can open doors to real financial freedom. It’s not just about crunching numbers or making more income—it’s about smart decisions, strategic investing, and changing the way you think about wealth.

He unpacks the habits that lead to financial independence, why patience is a game-changer, and how small, intentional choices today can create massive impact in the future. Whether you’re just starting to take control of your finances or looking to build long-term security, Chad’s insights will make you rethink the way you manage, grow, and protect your money.

Highlights:

• Shift your mindset around money to see it as a tool for creating freedom, not just a means for survival.
• Develop habits that build long-term wealth through consistency, patience, and intentional decision-making.
• Learn how financial independence isn’t about luck—it’s about strategic planning and disciplined execution.
• Explore ways to improve financial conversations within your family to create a stronger, healthier money mindset.
• Understand why small financial choices today can lead to major financial security in the future.

Connect with Chad:

Website: https://www.veritasalaska.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-hufford-066208100/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veritas.alaska/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeritasWealthManagement/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@veritasalaska

Book: Forging Financial Freedom

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and

greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards—it’s about building real relationships that create lasting opportunities.

Linda Walters, master connector, referral strategist, and founder of Lead Tribes, shares how authentic connections can transform the way entrepreneurs grow their businesses. She created Lead Tribes to bring together business owners who genuinely want to support each other, exchange meaningful referrals, and thrive in a community built on trust.

She breaks down the importance of staying top of mind, why asking for referrals is a skill that needs practice, and how structured networking can be both productive and fun. Linda also explains how introverts can find their place in networking, how online and in-person events each have their strengths, and why true referrals go beyond a simple name exchange.

This is a great refresher of all the best things about networking – and worth listening to.

Highlights:

• Strengthen your networking skills by focusing on real relationships instead of transactional connections.
• Learn how to ask for referrals in a way that feels natural and leads to more business opportunities.
• Discover how structured networking groups can provide long-term support and business growth.
• Explore ways to make networking work for you, whether you prefer online, in-person, or a mix of both.
• Understand why quality referrals require trust, follow-up, and thoughtful introductions

.

Connect with Linda:

Website: https://www.leadtribes.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindawalterslt

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindawaltersmtg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadTribes/

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can

subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and

greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

We’ve hit a major milestone!

In this special solo episode—something I rarely do—I’m taking a moment to celebrate 300 episodes of Relationships Rule! This journey has been an incredible ride, filled with insightful conversations, meaningful connections, and lessons that continue to shape the way we build relationships in business and life.

What’s Inside This Episode:

A look back at how Relationships Rule started and the incredible journey so far

Special shoutouts to my amazing podcast team, listeners, and guests who’ve made this milestone possible

Heartfelt messages from past guests and their experiences on the show

The 3 Most Powerful Rules for Relationship Success in Business:

1️. Curiosity is Your Superpower

2️. Relationships Require Nurturing

3️. Give Before You Expect to Receive

Some fun podcast stats & milestones – over 5,200 unique listeners and 15,000+ downloads!

What’s next for Relationships Rule and how YOU can be part of the journey

Thank You for Being Part of This Journey!

I couldn’t have done this without you—my listeners, guests, and supporters. I’m so grateful for every download, share, and conversation that has made this podcast what it is today.

Want to Celebrate With Me? Here’s How You Can Join In:

🎧 Listen to this episode & share your favorite moment!

💬 Leave a review or send me a message—I’d love to hear what this podcast has meant to you!

📢 Post about this milestone on LinkedIn or Instagram and tag me—I’ll be giving a special shoutout to those who do!

Here’s to the next 300 episodes! 🥂

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can

subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and

greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Most buying decisions aren’t based on logic—they’re driven by emotion, connection, and trust.

Chantal Cornelius helps businesses tap into this by using emotional marketing instead of generic selling points. As an international speaker, marketing mentor, and author of Standout Strategies, she explains why traditional USPs often fall flat and how to stand out by understanding what truly resonates with clients.

She shares five success strategies—Certainty, Connection, Contribution, Growth, and Significance—to help you identify your dominant emotional driver and build stronger customer relationships. From refining your messaging to making sales conversations feel effortless, Chantal’s insights will help you attract the right clients and create a business that feels authentic and impactful.

Highlights:

• Find out how to align your brand with the emotions that truly influence customer decisions.
• Identify the emotional strategy that best suits your business and use it to stand out.
• Uncover the power of language and how the right words can make your marketing more engaging.
• Develop a strategy to attract ideal clients while naturally filtering out those who aren’t the right fit.
• Apply proven techniques to make sales conversations feel more natural and emotionally resonant.

Connect with Chantal:

Website: https://appletreeuk.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantalcornelius

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chantal_appletreemarketing

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AppletreeMarketing

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can

subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and

greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Success in business isn’t just about having the best product—it’s about building trust, mastering relationships, and knowing how to tell your story.

Paige Arnof-Fenn, founder of Mavens & Moguls, has worked with brands like Microsoft, Virgin, and The New York Times, and she knows that branding is more than just a logo or tagline. She shares how great brands are built from the inside out, starting with a solid foundation of values, messaging, and customer trust. Paige breaks down why networking is essential, how digital marketing has evolved, and why market research is key to understanding what truly resonates with your audience.

She also unpacks the balance between AI and human connection, explaining how to leverage technology while still keeping marketing personal and authentic. Whether you're an entrepreneur or growing a business, her insights will help you build a brand that stands out in a noisy world.

Highlights:

• Learn why strong brands are built from the inside out, starting with clear messaging and core values.
• Discover how to use networking to create meaningful business opportunities and long-term success.
• Understand the role of market research in crafting a message that connects with the right audience.
• Explore how AI tools can streamline marketing while keeping relationships personal and authentic.
• Gain practical strategies for maintaining brand consistency across platforms and customer interactions.

Connect with Paige:

Website: www.mavensandmoguls.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigearnoffenn  

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by taking the

3 Card Sampler – you won’t regret it.

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my

complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky

listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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

https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1

https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and

think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social

media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in

the comment section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can

subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and

greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which

exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute,

please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.