How do you compete in a world where everyone claims to give better service? In this revisited episode of C-Suite Sidekick, Summer Poletti dives into why "better service" is no longer a differentiator—and what you can do instead.

Learn how to uncover your true differentiators by understanding your clients' biggest challenges, leveraging research, and aligning your internal strategies with buyer preferences. Whether you’re battling against industry giants or refining your unique value proposition, this episode offers actionable insights to help you stand out.

With fresh reflections for 2025, Summer explores how alignment—between teams and buyer expectations—is the ultimate secret weapon in today’s competitive market. Tune in to discover how to build a sales strategy that resonates with clients, retains their loyalty, and avoids the dreaded race to the bottom.

Companion content:

• 6 Things Future-Focused Business Owners Will Master in 2025 
• Protect Your Clients from Poaching 

Show notes:

• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

In today’s competitive landscape, retaining clients isn’t just a goal—it’s survival. As competitors ramp up their efforts to lure away your hard-earned clients, how do you protect the relationships you’ve worked so hard to build? In this episode of C-Suite Sidekick, I revisit one of my most impactful topics: protecting your clients from poaching.

Drawing on real-world insights and actionable strategies, we’ll explore how to:

• Strengthen client relationships through proactive engagement.
• Align internal teams to prevent cracks in client experience.
• Use business reviews and referrals to deepen loyalty and drive growth.
• Leverage client success stories as powerful marketing assets.

Stick around for my fresh perspectives on how alignment and client success will be your best tools for navigating 2025 and beyond.

Companion content:

• 6 Things Future-Focused Business Owners Will Master in 2025 
• Why Strategic Partnerships Fail and How to Fix Them

Show notes:

• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

 Strategic partnerships can be the secret weapon in your revenue growth strategy—or your biggest headache. In this episode of C-Suite Sidekick, we’re diving into why so many partnerships fail and, more importantly, how to make yours thrive. From unclear expectations and lack of onboarding to turnover and over-reliance on a single partner, we break down the most common pitfalls and share actionable solutions to ensure your partnerships deliver results. Whether you’re a seasoned CEO or just starting to explore partnerships, this episode is packed with insights to help you build stronger, more effective collaborations. Don’t miss this one—your future partners will thank you! 

Companion content:

• Strategic Partnerships: The Cornerstone of Revenue Growth
• Anatomy of a Great Partner Onboarding (Subscriber Exclusive)

Show notes:

• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

Are you relying on a flashy sales hire to drive your company’s growth? Think again. In this episode of C-Suite Sidekick, we’re unpacking one of the biggest misconceptions among growth-focused CEOs: the belief that bringing in a “hotshot” salesperson will solve all your revenue challenges.

Spoiler alert: it won’t—especially if your organization lacks the structure, strategy, and alignment needed to support sustainable growth.

Exclusive bonus mini pod available to subscribers

Join Summer Poletti as she breaks down:

• Why a superstar salesperson from an industry giant may not thrive in your smaller company.
• The hidden dangers of skipping foundational sales strategies like playbooks and onboarding.
• Why organizational alignment between marketing, sales, and customer success is more important than ever.
• Proven steps to ensure your next sales hire becomes a true revenue driver, not just an expensive gamble.

If you’re a CEO or business owner planning your next growth move, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you avoid costly hiring mistakes and set your sales team up for long-term success.

Companion episodes:

• How to find a good B2B salesperson
• Grow revenue without increasing headcount
• 6 easy steps to better sales/marketing alignment

Show notes:

• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

It’s the biggest travel week of the year—and it feels like everyone except you has already clocked out for Thanksgiving. But your goals don’t take a holiday. So what do you do when it seems like no one else is working?

In this mini-pod, I’m sharing practical and tactical advice for owners and business leaders to stay productive during a slow week, without burning out. You’ll learn:

• Who’s still picking up the phone (hint: it might not be who you think!)
• How to give yourself a little grace while still making progress

If you’re feeling frustrated by the pace this week, this episode will inspire you to shift your focus, take action, and set yourself up for success—not just for this week but for the months ahead.

Companion content:

• Podcast episode: How to move your deals along when everyone's in holiday mode.
• Podcast episode: Strategies for finishing your year strong
• Podcast episode: AI-powered strategies to close deals and ill up your 2025 pipeline

Show notes:

• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

In this special episode of C-Suite Sidekick, host Summer Poletti welcomes Tara Bonhorst, founder of Do That Dave, to discuss one of today’s most pressing topics: the role of AI in the future workplace. They dive into the stats that show why AI skills are becoming non-negotiable for job seekers, and the impact of “BYO AI”—employees bringing their own tools into work environments without company oversight.

Together, Summer and Tara explore why training in AI is crucial, the pitfalls businesses face when they don’t take control of upskilling, and how to foster a culture of continuous learning without overwhelming your team. Tara also shares practical advice for business leaders on the basics every employee should know about AI, from safety and ethical use to essential skills like prompt engineering and tool selection.

Whether you're a CEO wondering how to integrate AI into your team or a professional looking to stay relevant, this conversation will inspire you to think strategically about AI in your workplace.

Tune in to learn:

• Why “BYO AI” is on the rise and how it could impact your company.
• The 3 pillars of essential AI training every team needs.
• How to create a culture of continuous learning that’s both fun and productive.
• The real risks of ignoring AI in your business—and how to manage them safely.

Don't miss this insightful conversation on preparing your team for the future of work. Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms.

• Connect with Tara on LinkedIn
• See what Do That Dave is all about
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

The holiday season is upon us, and while everyone is getting into holiday mode, the work isn’t done yet—especially in sales. In this mini-episode of C-Suite Sidekick, Summer Poletti shares her top nine tips to keep your deals moving forward when everyone (including you) is busy with year-end projects, holiday parties, and endless to-do lists. From using smart scheduling tactics to leveraging CRM and AI tools, Summer provides actionable advice to ensure your sales pipeline doesn’t freeze up as the year winds down. If you're trying to hit those Q4 targets or set yourself up for a strong Q1, this episode is packed with timely insights to keep you on track.

Tune in for reminders, pro tips, and a quick motivational boost to help you close out the year strong! Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.

Companion content:

• Podcast episode: Strategies for finishing your year strong
• Podcast episode: AI-powered strategies to close deals and ill up your 2025 pipeline

Show notes:

• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

In this special episode, we’re diving deep into what it means to lead with purpose and stay steady during times of uncertainty. With political events swirling and emotions running high, business leaders—yes, that’s you—are the ones who will set the example, rally your teams, and keep things moving forward. We’ll talk about what it means to connect with your “North Star,” your purpose, and your impact on those around you. Whether it’s your clients, your community, or the legacy you’re building, the work you’re doing matters now more than ever. Join me as we refocus on shared goals, personal missions, and the unshakable influence business leaders have to shape their world.

• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

Have you ever lost a sale that felt like a sure thing, only to be left frustrated and wondering what went wrong? We've all been there. But what if I told you that a dead deal isn't necessarily the end? In this Halloween-themed episode, we’ll explore how to resurrect lost deals from the dead with the right strategy and mindset.

From understanding the hidden reasons deals fall through to using email nurturing, social media engagement, and personalized outreach to stay top of mind—this episode has you covered. I’ll also share personal stories and proven tactics to turn that "no" into a future "yes." Plus, we’ll dive into how partnerships and strategic follow-up can help you win back lost opportunities.

Whether you’re a sales pro or a business owner, this episode will show you that in sales, it’s never truly over.

Related Episodes and Resources:

• Maintain a healthy pipeline with these Strategies
• Re-engage deals with these Tactics
• Human and AI partnership to write cold email templates
• Why your deals are stalled and how to fix them

Tune in, and let’s bring those dead deals back to life! 🎃

• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com

In this episode of C-Suite Sidekick, host Summer Poletti tackles a challenge that many business owners face: how to stand out from larger competitors. Differentiation is key to winning over new clients and maintaining loyalty. Summer shares insightful strategies for uncovering what makes your business unique, illustrating the value of focusing on the customer experience, refining your marketing message, and rethinking how you position your services. Tune in for actionable steps to ensure your business isn’t just another option—it’s the option. Whether you're in financial services, SaaS, or beyond, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to grow in a competitive market. 

• Episode recorded and edited using Descript
• Repurposed content, such as this description created using CastMagic
• Visit Rise of Us for more information about Summer's services
• Connect with Summer on LinkedIn

Companion content:

• Mini Pod: How to Build Loyalty AND Drive Growth
• Mini Pod: The Magic of sales and marketing working together
• Blog: Reengaging Stalled Deals
• Mini Pod: How to Grow Without Hiring More Salespeople

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit summerpoletti.substack.com