Eric shares strategies for improving client interactions. The core focus is on viewing client communication through a "prospect's lens," emphasizing the importance of tone, questions, and professionalism to build trust and clarity. The conversation uses the analogy of an ophthalmologist fitting different lenses to illustrate how contractors can change how clients perceive them. Several members of Eric's coaching group share personal and professional successes, highlighting the value of the group's support and training in transforming their businesses.

• Regularly reflect on and celebrate your wins, no matter how small, to appreciate progress and maintain a positive perspective.
• Always consider interactions from the other person's perspective, understanding their emotional state and how they might be viewing you.
• Be mindful of your tonality and the way you communicate, as how you say things significantly impacts clarity and perception.
• Demonstrate trustworthiness through your actions and genuine consideration, rather than using language that might feel like virtue signaling.
• Commit to consistent repetition and practice of new skills and approaches to achieve lasting change and mastery.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

Eric talks with Andy and Jaden, from Festae Factory. The conversation centers on Jaden's entrepreneurial venture selling a unique, homemade fish filter he designed and manufactured, spurred by his father's inspiration and a desire to earn money after a successful prior year at a similar event. They also discuss their family business, specializing in breeding cichlids, and touch upon their involvement in the Fishroom Punks Trading Cards project and their travels within the fish hobby community. The interview highlights themes of family, business, and the interconnectedness of the fish keeping world.

Connect with Andy: https://www.instagram.com/festaefactory/

• Reinvest your earnings back into your business or future ventures.
• Break down large tasks into manageable steps to complete them efficiently.
• Find enjoyment and success in applying your skills, even in areas that aren't your primary passion.
• Consider supporting and encouraging entrepreneurs, especially young ones, in your community.
• Recognize that customers often value unique designs and convenience and are willing to pay for them.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

Eric shares an "accountability call" from his Weekly Compass group, focusing on the concept of an "availability audit". He emphasizes that this is about evaluating what you make yourself available for, as saying you are "too busy" might actually mean you are "too available" for less important things. learn how many time management problems faced by business owners, such as dealing with office work, lead management, and answering phones, can be solved by conducting an availability audit. Eric also recommends the book "Buy Back Your Time" by Dan Martell as a resource for this.

• Conduct an availability audit to identify areas where you can reclaim your time by evaluating what you make yourself available for.
• Practice the principle of automate, delegate, and eliminate in your daily routines and tasks to free up time for more important activities.
• Become intentional with your schedule by using time blocking to ensure you dedicate time to your priorities, even if you start small.
• Regularly re-evaluate your time management and be willing to make adjustments as your life circumstances and goals change over time.
• Shift your focus towards activities that produce value and contribute to your goals, and consider offloading less critical tasks.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

Eric talks with Joe from California Cichlids about his recent move to an inherited ranch with ponds and his ongoing project to relocate his fish from a remote warehouse back home after two years of daily commutes. The conversation touches upon his past experiences in the fishkeeping hobby, including early sales methods and challenges faced in the industry. They also explore his current agricultural endeavors on the property, including greenhouses and various livestock. The discussion shifts to specific fish, like albino multipunctatus and the prized pundilia nai, along with outdoor fishkeeping possibilities. Finally, they briefly mention future plans for California Cichlids and an upcoming aquarium show.

Connect with Joe: https://californiacichlids.com/

• Persist through challenges when pursuing your passions or goals.
• Be open to adapting to new technologies and ways of doing things.
• It's okay to start small and learn as you go.
• Learn from your mistakes to improve your processes and outcomes.
• Find joy and fulfillment in the activities you dedicate your time to.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

Today's podcast is focused on improving sales techniques for contractors. Eric emphasizes the importance of identifying and exploring a potential client's emotional drivers, or "dopamine hits," rather than immediately focusing on the financial aspects of a project. By encouraging clients to elaborate on their aspirations and the feelings associated with their desired outcomes, contractors can build stronger connections and ultimately increase their chances of securing a sale, as "dollars will follow dopamine." Participants also share personal experiences and "wins" related to implementing these strategies, highlighting the effectiveness of focusing on the client's enthusiasm and vision. The podcast encourages active listening and asking open-ended questions to uncover these deeper motivations.

• Look for the dopamine, not just the dollars, by focusing on what truly excites your clients.
• When a prospect expresses excitement, ask open-ended questions to encourage them to elaborate on their vision.
• Resist the urge to immediately jump to practicalities or budget, instead exploring the emotional drivers behind the customer's desires.
• Practice active listening and use word tracks like "What else?" to encourage the other person to share more.
• Engage in self-evaluation to identify areas for improvement in your communication and listening skills.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

This interview with Ron Soucy covers his longtime involvement in the fishkeeping hobby, especially with African Cichlids. He shares memories of being among the first to breed certain Tanganyikan fish and the excitement around new species arriving. Eric and Ron discuss how the hobby has changed, with fewer new fish and the decline of local fish stores. Ron recounts interesting breeding experiences, like Synodontis catfish acting as foster parents. He also shares his experiences as a fish wholesaler and offers tips for keeping certain fish, such as lowering the water temperature for Triglachromis and using Epsom salt. Although Ron isn't currently keeping fish, he fondly remembers his past and encourages others in the hobby to persevere and enjoy it.

• Start simple and learn as you go, just like Ron began with bettas.
• Embrace the excitement of discovery and new experiences in your passions.
• Value and cultivate the connections and friendships you make through shared interests.
• Don't be afraid to experiment and observe closely to find solutions to challenges.
• Persevere through setbacks and losses, as they are a natural part of any rewarding pursuit.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

Eric explains the concept of "response-ability" in this insightful episode of The Pond Digger Podcast. Triplett reveals how shifting your focus from mere duty to your actual ability to respond can revolutionize your client interactions and business outcomes. Discover practical strategies, including mastering the art of qualifying questions and leveraging the strategic power of silence during negotiations. Hear real-world examples from the community and learn how developing specific skills through dedicated practice unlocks greater control, confidence, and profitability. This episode offers tangible ways to elevate your professional capability and challenge your perceived limitations.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Assess your "response-ability" in challenging client interactions, focusing on your capability, not just your obligation.

• Ask permission to ask qualifying questions before giving information or prices to maintain control of the conversation.

• Practice strategic silence after presenting a price to allow the client to respond first and reveal their position.

• Commit to deliberate practice and role-playing to improve your communication skills and build proficiency.

• Re-evaluate your pricing and consultation fees based on your expertise, the value you provide, and current demand.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

Dive into the vibrant world of aquarium keeping with Angel, the passionate president of the San Diego Tropical Fish Society, as she shares the rich history of their decades-long club and the exciting events they host. Discover the unique challenges of leading an established society while embracing modern approaches like social media to engage a new generation of fish enthusiasts. This engaging conversation explores the deep connections within the fish keeping community, highlighting the crossover appeal between aquariums and ponds and the shared passion that unites hobbyists of all backgrounds. Learn practical tips for building community, leveraging social media, and fostering a love for aquatic life that transcends age.

San Diego Tropical Fish Society: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sdtfs

Key Takeaways:

• Seek out local aquarium or pond clubs to connect with fellow enthusiasts and expand your knowledge.
• Embrace the diverse aspects of the fish keeping hobby, whether it's freshwater tanks, saltwater reefs, or outdoor ponds.
• Consider using social media platforms to share your aquatic setups and engage with a wider community of hobbyists.
• Attend club meetings and events to learn from experienced speakers and participate in activities like auctions and demonstrations.
• Find ways to share your passion for fish keeping with younger individuals to cultivate their interest in the hobby.

Resources:

• Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com
• Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips
• Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett
• The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/
• LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/
• Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/
• Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/
• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle
• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle
• The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram
• The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook
• Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok

Eric Triplet, and his colleague MJ are experimenting with new audio equipment, specifically the RODEcaster Pro 2. Their conversation highlights the ease of setup and the potential for improved recording quality, especially in challenging environments like trade shows. Eric recounts past frustrations with unreliable equipment and expresses excitement about the portability and clarity of the new setup. They also briefly discuss the podcast's positive impact on their business and their plans for future remote and on-location recordings. Ultimately, this recording serves as a trial run and a discussion of the benefits of their upgraded audio capabilities.

• Don't let technical limitations prevent you from starting something you are passionate about.
• Embrace new technologies and tools that can help you achieve your goals more effectively.
• Value the input and support of those around you who encourage your endeavors.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok

Today's episode features a discussion about the concept of an "ascension ladder" in business, which involves offering a range of services or products at different price points to cultivate long-term customer relationships and increase revenue over time. Eric illustrates this idea with a personal anecdote about a long-term pond maintenance client who gradually increased their spending. Contrasting this positive example is a frustrating experience at a bike shop, where the staff's aggressive upselling attempts and poor customer service highlight a flawed approach to the ascension ladder and sales in general. Triplett emphasizes that a well-defined plan for escalating customer engagement must be coupled with effective communication, respect, and emotional intelligence to succeed.

• Develop an "ascension ladder" in your endeavors to offer a range of options and nurture growth over time.
• Prioritize strong communication, active listening, and emotional intelligence in all interactions.
• Avoid making assumptions about others and their needs or financial situations.
• Always ask for permission and be considerate of the other person's perspective and thought process.
• Recognize the potential for significant missed opportunities when sales and interactions are poorly handled.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok