Episode 269 (Ashely is based in Indianapolis, Indiana)

how AI can serve as a no-cost, personalized sales coach

why combining emotional intelligence with artificial intelligence strengthens selling skills

the importance of reviewing your own sales calls to identify scarcity language and missed questions

how to match your outreach method to the customer’s preferred communication style

why cold calling still works when it’s targeted and respectful

the fastest way to build trust in the first 30 seconds of a call

how to sustain energy and focus during repetitive outreach

the strengths introverts and extroverts each bring to sales

ways to confidently discuss money by knowing your value

why mindset, abundance, and intent matter more than scripts or tools

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About our guest, Ashely Beck Cuellar:

Ashely worked for 17 years selling to car dealers. She believes that natural curiosity is one of the greatest strengths any seller can have.

Learn more about Ashley and the sales workshops at 

https://salessparkcoaching.com/

The next 6-month sales coaching programs launches in Oct 2025.

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AI can be a personal sales coach

Analyze your conversations for missed opportunities

Match your communication channel to the client’s preference

Cold calling is still effective when done thoughtfully

Build trust quickly with honesty

Energy and resilience are critical in high-volume outreach

Introverts and extroverts bring different strengths to sales

Confidently discuss pricing by knowing your value

Clients often need guidance to make the best decision

Mindset shapes sales performance more than tools

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

Episode 268 (Mitch is based in New York State)

how cultural values shape communication and decision-making

the hidden “lies” that societies accept and how they influence relationships

why the survival brain reacts faster than the resourceful brain

what “Part X” is and how it sabotages growth

the difference between simple, complicated, and complex problems

how to build resilience by experimenting instead of seeking one perfect answer

why collaboration depends on flexibility in conflict resolution

the four strategies to move from survival mode to resourceful mode

the five powers of the resourceful mind and how to use them

Mitch’s mission to teach 5 million people resourcefulness, resilience, and collaboration

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About our Guest, Mitchell Weisburgh:

Mitchell is creator of the Mind Shifting Method, a practical brain-based system built from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and leadership strategy. He helps entrepreneurs, executives, and coaches rewire their internal operating systems — so they can lead, decide, and scale without burning out.

Learn more about Mind Shifting and how Mitch can help you and your team at:

https://www.mindshiftingwithmitch.com/

https://mindshiftingwithmitch.blog/

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Cultural norms shape communication—including acceptable “lies” people tell.

The brain’s survival mode reacts instantly and often overrides resourceful thinking.

Part X—the inner critic—tries to keep us “safe” by discouraging change.

Resourcefulness comes from tapping into the creative, empathetic, and executive functions of the brain.

Resilience is about navigating uncertainty, not finding one “right” answer.

Collaboration requires understanding conflict styles and using flexibility, not force.

Recognizing when you’re in survival mode is the first step to shifting your mindset.

Positive self-talk works best when it’s curious and open-ended, not cheerleader-style.

Distraction and trusted allies can help you reset from emotional overload.

The five powers of the resourceful mind—empathy, exploration, innovation, navigate, and focused action—help guide better decisions.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

Episode 267 (Danny is based in Denver, Colorado)

In this conversation with Danny Brassel we explore:

how to instantly connect with your audience using relatability, authority, and purpose

why storytelling beats bullet points for memorability and emotional connection

how to mine everyday experiences for meaningful stories that support your message

why self-deprecating humor is the safest and most effective form of humor in today’s culture

how sharing personal failures builds stronger trust and audience rapport than bragging

how business leaders can use storytelling to boost team morale and alignment

why sad stories must have a hopeful ending to avoid emotional manipulation

how to balance facts and feelings to reach both logical and emotional audience members

the importance of a single clear call to action at the end of your presentation

how to structure your talk using the 5C framework: Clarity, Connect, Content, Call to Action, and Close

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About our guest, Danny Brassel:

A speaker, trainer and coach known as “Jim Carrey with a Ph.D.,” Dr. Danny Brassell (www.DannyBrassell.com) has spoken to over 3,500 audiences worldwide.

He has authored 18 books, including Leadership Begins with Motivation and Misfits and Crackpots. The co-founder of The WellCrafted Story Workshop™, Danny helps entrepreneurs, individuals and organizations leverage speaking on stages as a client lead-source that converts. 

Get your free copy of the Storytelling Blueprint https://wellcraftedstoryworkshop.com/blueprint

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Open strong with R.A.P. – Build connection in the first five minutes by being Relatable, demonstrating Authority, and declaring your Purpose.

Stories beat slides. – People remember stories, not bullet points. Use storytelling to make your message stick and drive action.

You already have great stories. – Everyday experiences—even small, silly, or embarrassing ones—can become powerful presentation tools when reframed with purpose.

Self-deprecating humor is the safest humor. – When you laugh at yourself, you make the audience comfortable, avoid offending anyone, and build trust.

Your failures build credibility. – Audiences connect more with your struggles than your successes. Vulnerability creates relatability.

Sad stories need hopeful endings. – A story without a resolution leaves the audience emotionally stuck. If you use a heavy story, resolve it with a positive outcome.

Be helpful, not just impressive. – Demonstrating usefulness—even with small tips—builds goodwill and long-term trust.

One clear call to action is essential. – Don’t overwhelm your audience with options. Give them a single, clear next step.

Appeal to both logic and emotion. – Speak to the “Joe Fridays” (fact-driven) and “Julia Roberts” (feeling-driven) in your audience for maximum engagement.

Training must be ongoing. – A one-day workshop isn’t enough. Repetition and coaching are necessary to truly master effective communication.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

Episode 266 (Donnie is based in Texas)

In this conversation with Donnie Boivin we explore:

why the traditional rules of networking fail in the B2B space

how to eliminate the pitch and still make meaningful connections

how to use LinkedIn QR codes instead of business cards

what it means to rank your network and why it matters

how to earn a trusted spot on someone’s “starting lineup”

the power of introductions vs. referrals

how to use targeted questions to unlock valuable connections

what types of professionals are best suited as referral partners

how to use a simple five-word intro to start real conversations

the mindset shift from “get a client” to “be a connector”

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About our guest, Donnie Boivin:

Donnie started his company at age 40 and was selected for the 40 under 40 list. 

He is founder of Success Champion Networking, an online community for serious networkers. https://successchampionnetworking.com/

He is producer of the Bad Ass Business Summit

https://badassbusinesssummit.com/

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Key Lessons from this conversation:

Traditional networking is broken: Most networking advice is based on transactional sales models that don’t apply to modern B2B relationships.

Ditch the business cards and 30-second pitch: These old-school tools no longer serve professionals focused on building real business relationships.

Use technology to connect smartly: Tools like LinkedIn QR codes help maintain control of your contacts and avoid spam.

Your goal isn’t clients—it’s introductions: Real success comes from building relationships with synergistic partners who already sell to your ideal clients.

Rank your network strategically: Donnie’s 4-tier system helps you identify who’s worth nurturing and who’s just noise.

Earn your spot on the ‘starting lineup’: Become the go-to person for strategic partners by opening doors for them first.

Ask better questions at events: Questions like “How did you get into what you do?” lead to meaningful conversations.

Be specific when describing your ideal partner: Help others help you by clearly identifying who you want to meet and why.

Make introductions, not referrals: Introductions are easier, lower-pressure, and can generate more opportunities in the long run.

Network for synergy, not sales: The most powerful connections come from mutual support between professionals with shared clientele but no competition.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

Episode 265 (Diana is based in Florida)

In this conversation with Diana Fritz we explore:

how Diana uses her literal blind spot to teach about communication blind spots

why vulnerability builds stronger connections in leadership and teams

how DISC profiles reveal communication styles and hidden friction

strategies to adjust your communication style by reading body language and tone

how reflection and journaling help leaders reframe adversity and recharge

the difference between being people-focused vs task-focused in communication

how Diana’s cancer journey helped her discover her purpose, not her limit

ways to help team members feel seen, heard, and supported—beyond the task

how to coach others to discover their own blind spots through guided questions

why it’s better to be refined by challenges than defined by them

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About our guest, Diana Fritz:

Diana is author of "Uniquely Imperfect, Uniquely Qualified" which can can find on Amazon and where fine books are sold.

Diana lost her left eye to cancer and leverages her difference to emphasize how to reveal and use our flaws to connect with others and lead authentically.

Key Lessons from this conversation:

transparency builds trust and invites others to open up

everyone has communication blind spots—some are visible, others hidden

leaders grow when they admit their weaknesses and build systems to support them

DISC profiles help teams understand personality-driven behavior differences

vulnerability and authenticity are tools for influence, not weaknesses

reading body language and listening are key to adapting communication

daily reflection helps leaders grow from challenges, not just survive them

communication is not one-size-fits-all—it must be customized to the listener

your physical or emotional scars can become powerful conversation starters

reframing adversity can turn pain into purpose and fuel growth

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

Episode 264 (Richard is based in South Africa)

In this conversation with Richard Reid we explore:

the true meaning of charisma and why it’s more about how others feel than how you appear

the role of psychological safety in building trust, influence, and innovation

why self-awareness is the foundation of authentic leadership

how emotional leakage can sabotage your message and your team culture

strategies to reset your internal state between meetings for greater presence

how leaders can communicate calm during crises through deliberate body language and speech

the power of micro-habits to improve energy, confidence, and communication

how reflection and journaling enhance resilience and leadership effectiveness

practical routines to prevent burnout and show up as your best self

how leaders can foster a growth mindset and create space for others to shine

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About our guest, Richard Reid:

Richard is the author of "Charisma Unlocked: The Science and Strategy to Captivate, Influence and Succeed in Business".

He was Chief People Officer at a global law firm. He is from the UK and now lives in South Africa.

Learn more about his Masterclasses and coaching at

https://richard-reid.com/live-events/charisma-workshops/

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Key lessons from this conversation:

Charisma is about how others feel, not how impressive you appear.

Psychological safety is central to charisma and effective leadership.

Charisma starts with self-awareness and managing your internal world.

Reflective routines enhance emotional regulation and presence.

Effective communication means seeing others as individuals, not objects.

In a crisis, calm leadership is conveyed through body language and vocal control.

Leaders need to be intentional with their energy and meeting schedules.

Small micro-habits, like breathing or posture resets, have a big impact.

True charisma is sustainable and rooted in authenticity, not performance.

Teams thrive when members feel safe to express themselves and fail forward.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

Episode 263 (Meaghan is based in Chicago)

In this conversation with Meaghan Benjamin we explore:

The difference between credibility and rapport — and why both matter in leadership.

How communication habits are formed and the importance of adapting them.

What it means to practice agile communication in today’s digital world.

How curiosity fosters connection, learning, and innovation.

Why tone, gestures, and delivery shape how others receive your message.

How to use the Know–Feel–Do framework to craft more persuasive messages.

Ways to build fast rapport in emotionally or professionally high-stakes settings.

How to help your audience become better listeners by how you speak.

The challenge and opportunity of virtual communication for modern professionals.

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About our guest, Meaghan Kane Benjamin:

Credibility vs Rapport

Rapport creates emotional connection; credibility is built by consistent follow-through.

Communication as Habit + Adaptability

Effective communication adapts to the context and people involved.

Agile Communication Framework

A methodology based on science, systems thinking, and storytelling.

The Power of Curiosity

Authentic curiosity drives rapport, empathy, and innovation.

Tone Is More Than Words

Tone, gestures, and expression shape how your message is received.

The Know-Feel-Do Framework

Define what you want the audience to know, feel, and do. Let the "feel" and "do" guide your messaging.

Build Rapport Fast in High-Stakes Moments

Especially in healthcare and business pitches, rapport often matters more than content volume.

Listening as a Shared Responsibility

It's not just about being a better speaker — help others become better listeners too.

Four Levels of Listening

From small talk (Level 1) to generative collaboration (Level 4).

Virtual Communication Challenges

With screens reducing non-verbal cues, intentional delivery matters more than ever.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 262 (Bill is based in New Mexico)

In this conversation with Bill Shander we explore:

How to uncover what your stakeholders really need—beyond what they ask for

Why your first idea is often just an automated response

How to apply the Socratic method to guide people toward their own insight

Why asking “why” directly can feel hostile, and what to say instead

The power of “chunky segmentation” to clarify vague communication

How to balance divergent and convergent questions to get to the truth

What aporia means—and why a little confusion leads to breakthrough thinking

Why your visuals must reflect meaning, not just style

When and how AI can support visual storytelling and insight

Why it’s crucial to practice stakeholder whispering on yourself first

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About our guest, Bill Shander:

Bill has been teaching data storytelling and visualization for about 10 years for clients around the world and on on Linkedin Learning.

He is the author of "Stakeholder Whispering: Uncover What People Need Before Doing What they Ask"

You can find his book here: Stakeholder Whispering

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Key lessons from this conversation:

Insight: Stakeholder requests are often surface-level assumptions, not true needs. Your job is to dig deeper.

Insight: Pause before acting. The first idea might be convenient, but often lacks strategic depth.

Insight: Ask layered questions to lead stakeholders into self-awareness rather than handing them answers.

Insight: Reframe your language: say “Tell me more about…” instead of “Why did you do that?”

Insight: Break vague statements (e.g., “We do masterclasses”) into discrete elements to clarify meaning.

Insight: Confusion can be a productive step toward clarity—help stakeholders get there.

Insight: Choose visuals based on the real message, not just what’s easy to draw.

Insight: Tools like AI are only effective after you’ve clarified your intent and message.

Insight: Order-takers may be efficient, but real innovation comes from collaborators who challenge assumptions.

Insight: Self-questioning sharpens your ability to lead others through discovery and insight.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 261 (Alan is based in Oakville, Ontario)

In this conversation with Alan McClaren we explore:

the power of authentic personal branding for CEOs and business leaders

how a Brand DNA session transforms fear into clarity and confidence

why video is the most scalable and trustworthy communication tool today

how personal stories build trust and eliminate competition

the mindset shift from curated perfection to authentic communication

why executives have a responsibility to share their insights publicly

the step-by-step process of personal branding through content strategy

how leaders can batch-create video content efficiently

the real ROI of personal branding: leads, partnerships, and visibility

how to avoid the trap of hiding behind a logo and start showing up online

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About our guest, Alan McClaren:

Alan is a personal branding expert and co-founder of STRATA Originals. He was CEO of marketing agency - InfinityComm. He's a long time member and officer of Young Presidents' Organization, YPO.

Learn more about STRATA Originals at: https://strataoriginals.com/

Get your free worksheet to clarify your personal brand: https://strataoriginals.com/elevate-your-brand-1

Connect with Alan on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanmclaren/

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Key Lessons from this Conversation with Alan McClaren:

Everyone Has a Personal Brand—Most Just Aren’t Leveraging It

Brand DNA Is the First Step to Unlocking Personal Clarity

Video Is the Most Authentic and Scalable Communication Medium

Personal Branding Is About Giving, Not Performing

Executives Have a Responsibility to Share Their Wisdom Publicly

Your Story Is Your Protection—No One Can Argue With Lived Experience

Posting Video Content Builds Trust Before the First Conversation

You Can Batch Video to Make It Easier and More Efficient

You Don't Need to Be Perfect—You Need to Be You

Leaders Who Share Their Perspective Attract More Opportunity

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 260 (James is based in California)

In this conversation with James Hipkin we explore:

The difference between inside-out and outside-in marketing—and why it matters.

Why empathy is a marketer’s most powerful asset.

How to design a website that confirms, not converts.

The fatal flaw in “call to action” and what to say instead.

How to create “people like you” pathways for segmented audiences.

The power of micro-transactions to build trust and drive decisions.

The six elements your homepage must deliver in under six seconds.

How to leverage testimonials and trust signals effectively.

The real value of SEO: understanding search intent.

How AI can build customer avatars and journey maps affordably.

Why many marketing efforts fail due to lack of clear strategy and measurement.

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About out guest, James Hipkin:

James has worked in marketing and advertising for over 40 years. His clients included Sprint, Apple, Nestle, Toyota and Wells Fargo online bank.

Since 2010 James has helped his client build business with digital marketing. He's the author of "Journey to Success: Digital Marketing for Small Business Owners"

You can take arrange for your website audit at

sixsecondsorless.com

Learn more about his marketing services at https://inn8ly.com/

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Key lessons from this conversation with James:

Learning Point: Effective marketers must understand their audience’s emotions, struggles, and perspective

Learning Point: Focus on the customer’s needs, not your own accolades.

Learning Point: A visitor comes to confirm if you understand their problem—not to be sold instantly.

Learning Point: Invite users into their own journey instead of shouting instructions

Learning Point: Every click, visual, and copy element should build trust incrementally.

Learning Point: In 6 seconds or less, your website must confirm identity, state benefit, show credibility, offer clear navigation, and deliver easy-to-consume content.

Learning Point: Place a compelling testimonial or credibility bar near the top of the page.

Learning Point: SEO helps you understand search intent more than rank your site.

Learning Point: AI can help generate data-driven insights at a fraction of traditional research costs.

Learning Point: Without strategy, planning, and measurement, marketing efforts collapse.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/