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What does it take to break barriers and thrive in a male-dominated industry?

In this episode of Secrets in Medical Device Sales™, we welcome the incredible Dr. Kelly Emerton—a powerhouse in engineering and medical device innovation. Kelly shares her unique career path from engineering to fashion design to leading cutting-edge product development at Medtronic. She dives into the challenges of navigating leadership as a woman, the importance of lifelong learning, and how resilience is the key to success. From fighting for her place at the table to standing tall in her cowboy boots, Kelly’s story will inspire you to embrace your strengths, own your worth, and never stop pushing forward.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• From Fashion to Engineering – Kelly shares how her dual passions led her to a career in medical device innovation.
• Thriving in a Male-Dominated Industry – How confidence, preparation, and partnership mindset helped Kelly excel.
• Overcoming Workplace Challenges – A powerful story of resilience in facing workplace adversity.
• The Power of Mentorship – Why finding mentors and building a support network is crucial for growth.
• Head, Heart, and Hustle – Kelly’s mantra for leadership and success in any career.

About Kelly Emerton

Kelly Emerton is a powerhouse in medical device innovation, currently serving as Senior Director of the Tricuspid Therapies Research and Development division at Medtronic. Before that, she led the U.S. Aortic Stent Graft division at CryoLife, Inc., driving advancements in endovascular stent graft technologies.

Her career is built on pushing boundaries in cardiovascular medicine. As Senior Director of Medical Devices Product Development at Cleveland Clinic, she played a key role in launching several spin-off companies, including Enhale Medical, Inc., where she later became Chief Operating Officer. She also spearheaded product development for Medtronic’s endovascular therapies division, focusing on thoracic pipeline innovation.

Beyond her leadership in R&D, Kelly is deeply involved in shaping the future of medical technology. She serves on Case Western Reserve University’s Technology Validation Start-up Fund Program committee and the Medical/Scientific Advisory Board for RedCrow Medical Investments.

She holds a master’s degree in philosophy and biomedical engineering from The City College of New York and dual PhDs in biomedical engineering and orthopedics from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the Graduate Center, City University of New York.

Connect with Kelly:

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Have you ever found yourself second-guessing your abilities in a high-pressure sales environment?

Confidence isn’t just about believing in yourself—it’s about trusting your knowledge, refining your approach, and delivering your message with conviction. In this episode, we dive deep into the role of confidence in medical device sales, tackling self-doubt, fear of failure, and performance anxiety. Cynthia and Anneliese break down actionable strategies to build unwavering trust in yourself, enhance decision-making skills, and become a more assertive, high-performing sales professional. If you’re ready to step up your game and make confidence your competitive edge, this episode is for you.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• Confidence vs. Arrogance – The fine line between confidence and arrogance in sales and why customers respond differently to each.
• Overcoming Self-Doubt – Practical steps to boost confidence by strengthening knowledge and refining communication.
• Fear of Failure: The Silent Sales Killer – How fear of rejection or missing quotas can hold you back and how to redefine failure for growth.
• Managing Performance Anxiety – Techniques to stay calm, collected, and effective in high-stakes sales situations.
• Trust: The Core of Confidence – How trusting yourself, your process, and your decisions builds unshakable confidence.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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What separates top sales performers from the rest?

It’s not just skill or experience—it’s resilience. In this episode of Secrets in Medical Device Sales™, Cindy and Lisa dive into the mental toughness required to thrive in a competitive industry. They share personal stories, powerful strategies, and real-world insights to help you push past rejection, maintain motivation, and adapt to change. Whether you're struggling with lost deals or fighting to stay motivated, this episode will give you the tools to rise above challenges and dominate your sales career.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• The Definition of Resilience – What resilience truly means in high-performance sales and why it’s the secret weapon of top reps.
• Lessons from Rocky Balboa – How the underdog mentality and persistence in the face of setbacks can help you win in sales.
• The Power of Belief – Why unwavering belief in yourself and your product is key to overcoming rejection and objections.
• Handling Rejection Like a Pro – How to turn “no” into an opportunity and pivot conversations to close more deals.
• Maintaining Motivation When Sales Get Tough – The mindset shift that keeps you pushing forward even when you don’t feel like it.
• Navigating Competitive Environments – How to outmaneuver competitors and establish yourself as the go-to sales rep.
• Adapting to Change with Confidence – Strategies for staying ahead when the market shifts, new competitors emerge, or your sales strategy needs adjusting.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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Have you ever wondered why some salespeople seem to effortlessly connect with their customers, while others struggle to build meaningful relationships?

The secret often lies in emotional intelligence. In this episode, Lisa and Cindy dive into the concept of EQ and how mastering self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation, and social skills can give you a competitive edge in sales. Discover actionable strategies to leverage emotional intelligence in your daily interactions, build stronger connections, and ultimately drive your sales performance to new heights. Whether you're navigating objections or forging lasting relationships, this conversation will empower you to lead with authenticity and connection.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• Introduction to Power Play Series – Lisa and Cindy share the purpose behind the 10-part Power Play series and the focus on high-performance traits.
• Defining Emotional Intelligence – A breakdown of EQ and its importance in recognizing and managing emotions in sales interactions.
• Connection as the Secret to Emotional Intelligence – Why building genuine connections is crucial for fostering trust and rapport with customers.
• Empathy in Action – Examples of how empathy can strengthen customer relationships and create opportunities for growth.
• The Role of Self-Regulation in Sales – Tips for staying composed under pressure and responding to challenges with poise.
• Social Skills for Better Communication – How adapting your communication style to fit your audience can make all the difference in achieving sales success.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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Your experiences are important to us. Share how you've navigated catalysts for growth and personal transformation. Connect with us on social media or leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback and stories inspire us and guide future episodes!

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Why do some salespeople consistently hit their targets while others fall short?

It often comes down to one defining trait: a strong work ethic. In this episode, we’re diving into the secret behind achieving long-term sales success, and it’s not just about working hard—it’s about discipline, consistency, and strategy. Whether you’re struggling with procrastination, balancing priorities, or staying motivated, this conversation will give you actionable insights to boost your performance. Tune in and discover how to outwork your competition, achieve your goals, and make 2025 your most successful year yet.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• What is Work Ethic? – A breakdown of what it truly means to have a strong work ethic and how it drives consistent results.
• The Secret: Discipline – Learn why discipline is the cornerstone of a successful career and how to stay consistent, even on tough days.
• Setting Clear Goals – Discover how to align personal and professional goals for better focus and productivity.
• Time Management Matters – Insights into organizing your day and maximizing your efficiency to hit your sales targets.
• Consistency Builds Momentum – Understand why staying consistent is essential for long-term success in medical device sales.
• Overcoming Obstacles – Real stories and strategies for pushing through setbacks and staying on track.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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Have you ever wondered how to balance a thriving career in medical device sales while navigating the challenges of pregnancy and maternity leave?

In this episode, we dive deep into the real, raw, and rewarding journey of being a career-driven woman balancing life-changing events. From addressing guilt and stress to practical strategies for navigating maternity leave, join us as we share personal stories, actionable advice, and powerful insights to help you thrive in both your personal and professional life.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• Acknowledging the Challenges of Motherhood in a Career-Driven World: A candid discussion on the fears, guilt, and stress women experience when balancing motherhood and a high-performing career.
• Let Go of the Guilt: A heartfelt message about shedding the guilt and embracing the miracle of life while maintaining your career.
• Trimester-by-Trimester Guide: Insightful advice on navigating each stage of pregnancy while excelling at your job.
• The Fourth Trimester: Practical tips on disconnecting, recovering, and bonding with your baby during maternity leave.
• Returning to Work with Confidence: Strategies for easing back into your career while embracing your new identity as a mother and career woman.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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We'd Love to Hear Your Stories!

Your experiences are important to us. Share how you've navigated catalysts for growth and personal transformation. Connect with us on social media or leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback and stories inspire us and guide future episodes!

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Have you ever been unfairly labeled in your workplace?

Women in medical device sales often face stereotypes that can hinder their career growth and self-esteem. In this empowering episode, we dive deep into the effects of inappropriate labeling and share actionable strategies to overcome them. From embracing self-worth to rewriting negative narratives, this episode will inspire you to tear off old labels and write your own.

With practical tips, personal stories, and insights from leading voices, you’ll leave equipped to embrace confidence and push past workplace boundaries.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• The Power of Labels: Exploring how workplace labels can impact women’s careers and self-esteem.
• Breaking Stereotypes: Discussing societal origins of negative labels like "bossy" and reframing assertiveness as a strength.
• Self-Awareness for Empowerment: Understanding your strengths and addressing negative feedback to own your narrative.
• Positive Affirmations: Combatting negative labels by replacing them with affirmations like "confident" and "visionary."
• Knowing Your Worth: Practical tips for setting boundaries, communicating with confidence, and staying focused.
• Redefining Labels: Personal stories of overcoming stereotypes and proving doubters wrong.
• Tools for Self-Improvement: Recommendations for books and talks by Brené Brown and Sheryl Sandberg to empower listeners.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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We'd Love to Hear Your Stories!

Your experiences are important to us. Share how you've navigated catalysts for growth and personal transformation. Connect with us on social media or leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback and stories inspire us and guide future episodes!

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What if the key to winning in medical device sales was simpler than you think?

In this episode, we uncover the ultimate sales hack for 2025: passion. Passion isn’t just a feeling—it’s the strategic energy that creates trust, overcomes objections, and adds value to your customer relationships. We break down how to infuse passion into every part of your sales process, from building rapport to overcoming objections with confidence.

If you’re ready to reignite your enthusiasm, connect deeply with your customers, and elevate your sales game, this episode is for you.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• The 80/20 Rule in Sales Success - Understand why 80% of your revenue comes from 20% of your customers and how to focus strategically on these key accounts while still planting seeds in others.
• Turning Passion into Trust - Learn how passion builds rapport and trust with customers, making your sales calls more personal and authentic.
• Overcoming Objections with Confidence - Discover how passion, combined with knowledge, can help you confidently address and overcome customer objections.
• The Power of Storytelling in Sales - See how real-life anecdotes can make your products relatable and create a deeper emotional connection with your audience.
• Strategic Passion in Action - Explore how breaking down passion into actionable steps can create urgency, inspire customers, and lead to better outcomes in sales.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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We'd Love to Hear Your Stories!

Your experiences are important to us. Share how you've navigated catalysts for growth and personal transformation. Connect with us on social media or leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback and stories inspire us and guide future episodes!

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How many times have you crafted a shiny New Year’s sales plan only to watch it fizzle out by the end of Q1?

Or maybe you’re coming back from the holiday break feeling overwhelmed about where to start. In this special New Year’s episode of Secrets in Medical Device Sales, we’re breaking down how to create a SMART plan for 2025 that you can actually follow and achieve.

We reflect on what worked (and what didn’t) last year, explore the importance of focusing on revenue-driving activities, and discuss how to break your yearly goals into manageable, actionable steps. Join us as we sip champagne, reflect on the past year, and share proven strategies to make 2025 your most successful year yet. Cheers to setting—and smashing—your goals!

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• Cheers to a New Year and New Goals - The hosts kick off the episode by toasting the successes of 2024 and discussing why New Year’s is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and plan strategically for the year ahead.
• SMART Goal-Setting Framework - Learn the power of SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound) and how this proven framework ensures clarity and accountability in your planning.
• Reverse Engineering Success - Discover how breaking down annual goals into quarterly, monthly, and weekly plans can simplify execution and keep you on track.
• 80/20 Rule for Sales Success - Focus on the 20% of your customers that drive 80% of your revenue while still planting seeds to grow new opportunities in your pipeline.
• Overcoming Fear with Feedback and Mentorship - Address the fears and obstacles holding you back by seeking guidance from mentors, leadership, or peers to uncover blind spots and unlock growth.
• The Power of IPAs (Income-Producing Activities) - Implement strategic and repeatable actions that maximize results—and yes, celebrate your wins with an IPA (or champagne)!

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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We'd Love to Hear Your Stories!

Your experiences are important to us. Share how you've navigated catalysts for growth and personal transformation. Connect with us on social media or leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback and stories inspire us and guide future episodes!

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What if your next big sale is with a customer you’ve overlooked?

In this Secrets in Medical Device Sales episode, The Girls of Grit explores the untapped potential in dormant customer relationships and shares insightful strategies for re-engaging clients who may have fallen off your radar.

Through the analogy of repolishing old stones, they provide actionable tips to identify overlooked opportunities, rebuild trust, and reignite interest with authenticity and creativity. 

Whether it's leveraging new product launches, revisiting past challenges, or creating fresh value, this episode equips you with the tools to transform dormant accounts into shining success stories.

Tune in and learn how to turn overlooked relationships into your next big win!

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• The Stone Analogy: Dormant customers are compared to unpolished stones, with the potential to become valuable and impactful relationships when revisited and nurtured.
• Identifying Dormant Customers: How to locate clients who may have been overlooked due to past challenges, contract constraints, or insufficient follow-up.
• Reconnecting with Simplicity: They emphasize the value of personal outreach, such as in-person meetings or tailored updates, to rebuild trust and rekindle interest.
• Creating Value: Practical ways to add value are discussed, including sharing new product research, highlighting upgrades, or revisiting previous offerings with fresh insights.
• Addressing the Elephant in the Room: Acknowledging past mistakes with honesty and clarity is presented as a key step to restoring credibility and strengthening relationships.
• The Importance of Follow-Up: They conclude with actionable advice on maintaining momentum, ensuring that re-engaged clients remain active and valued through consistent and thoughtful follow-ups.

An Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...

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Follow The Girls of Grit™:

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We'd Love to Hear Your Stories!

Your experiences are important to us. Share how you've navigated catalysts for growth and personal transformation. Connect with us on social media or leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback and stories inspire us and guide future episodes!

A Team Dklutr production