Revenue Remix - Inspiring Visionary Leaders

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

In this episode of C-Suite Sidekick, host Summer Poletti tackles a controversial topic in sales: “Is Outbound Dead?” While you might have heard that outbound sales efforts are no longer effective, Summer breaks down why that’s simply not true—bad outbound is dead. She explores common outbound mistakes, like weak messaging and lack of persistence, and offers practical tips for revamping your strategy. From leveraging AI tools the right way to maintaining a balance between automation and human connection, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Whether you’re struggling with low response rates or wondering how to stand out in a crowded market, you’ll learn how to optimize your outbound efforts and fill your pipeline with the right clients.

• 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 breaks down six timeless sales techniques that have stood the test of time, even in today’s AI-driven world. These classic strategies are perfect for business owners and sales teams who might feel overwhelmed by all the new technology and want to refocus on what really works in sales. From relationship building to strategic partnerships, Summer explores how the fundamentals of good salesmanship can boost revenue without expanding your sales team. Whether you’re in financial services, SaaS, or any other B2B sector, these evergreen techniques will help you nurture long-lasting client relationships, create value, and keep your pipeline full—no matter the market conditions.

• 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 dives into the challenging, yet vital skill of learning when to say "no" as a small business owner. With personal anecdotes and real-world examples, she explains why saying no to the wrong client or project can actually protect your business in the long run. From avoiding rushed timelines and scope creep to setting pricing boundaries and protecting your brand’s reputation, Summer offers actionable insights on how to balance growth with integrity. If you’ve ever struggled with turning down business, this episode is for you! 

And near the end, Summer share her secret for saying "no" and still feeling nice.

• 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