Hey Trailblazers! Today’s episode is all about impact without ego. Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are back with a powerful conversation featuring Steve Eanes, a tech sales leader who lives and breathes real allyship. From a childhood hustle selling newspapers and candy to 25 years of crushing quotas in tech, Steve’s journey is more than a career path. It’s a mindset shift.

Steve opens up about what authenticity means when it’s not just a buzzword. His take? “The only true gift you have to offer is yourself.” But here’s the twist. He says authenticity also means showing up better every day, not using it as an excuse to stay stagnant. For anyone in leadership, sales, or tech, this is the kind of real talk you don’t hear enough.

We also get into the messy, overlooked side of allyship. Steve drops a gem that hits hard: “Life’s not 50/50. It’s 100/100.” That means showing up for others without waiting for payback. Whether it’s bringing someone into the room, introducing them to your network, or simply amplifying a voice that’s been ignored, Steve breaks down how small actions can shift entire careers.

And yes, mindset matters. Steve gets real about surviving stage three cancer and how that changed everything. He explains how choosing to see two hours ahead at a time kept him grounded, focused, and deeply connected to others. That mindset now fuels the way he mentors, supports, and builds relationships across the tech world.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(3:29) Authenticity and continuous growth

(7:09) Allyship and active listening

(8:03) Bias, agenda-free action, and connection

(10:18) Intentionality vs agenda

(14:06) Practical allyship through connection

(16:42) Turning obstacles into stepping stones

(22:02) Power of choosing a mindset

(23:56) Mentorship through real action

(26:27) Intentional networking that works

(28:51) Creating space for others

(29:51) The power of asking “What can I do for you?”

So what does it look like to show up for others without an agenda? How do you create opportunity just by being consistent? Tune in, share with a friend, and maybe ask yourself one thing by the end of this episode: Who have you pulled into the conversation lately?

About Steve Eanes

Steve Eanes is an Account Director at Digital Realty, where he supports enterprise clients across North and South Carolina with cloud and data center solutions. With over 28 years in tech sales, he has built a reputation for strong client relationships and consistent performance. He is also a Certified Go-Giver Speaker and Coach. A cancer survivor of 24 years, Steve brings a mindset of service and resilience to both his work and community.

Connect with Steve:

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads Data Governance at Compass Group USA, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across all business units. She is passionate about driving data excellence and advancing women in tech and STEM.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.