Episode 174 – How One Meeting Saved a Multimillion-Dollar Dream | Scott McElroy

Episode 174 – How One Meeting Saved a Multimillion-Dollar Dream | Scott McElroy

In Episode 174, Drewbie sits down with entrepreneur and strategist Scott McElroy to unpack one of the most intense moments of his entrepreneurial journey — the moment his 10-year dream of owning a car wash nearly collapsed at the closing table. After years of planning, building, branding, hiring employees, and even opening the business to customers, Scott received a shocking call from the bank: they believed he had committed fraud related to PPP loan funds. With everything on the line — his business, his reputation, and potentially even legal consequences — Scott had just three days to fight for the deal and prove his case. Instead of panicking, Scott leaned on preparation, facts, and trusted advisors to walk into the bank and face the situation head-on. What followed was a powerful lesson in entrepreneurial resilience, emotional control, and faith during uncertainty. Scott also shares how that same business would eventually turn into a multimillion-dollar exit just one year later, proving that the darkest moments in business often sit right before breakthrough. Beyond the story, Scott dives into the mindset principles he now teaches founders and leaders — focusing on clarity, small forward actions, and building systems that help teams actually execute. If you've ever felt like your biggest opportunity was slipping through your fingers, this episode will remind you why showing up and taking the next step can change everything. Episode Highlights 💰 The moment Scott's dream car wash deal almost collapsed 🏦 A shocking call from the bank accusing him of PPP loan fraud ⚖️ How a legal technicality nearly killed the deal 😰 The emotional rollercoaster of a 3-day crisis 📊 Why facts and documentation saved the deal 🤝 The experienced business partner who helped navigate the meeting 📉 The power of staying calm when everything feels like it's falling apart 📈 How that same business turned into a multimillion-dollar exit one year later 🧠 The "What's In Your Hands Today?" mindset strategy 🔎 Helping entrepreneurs find clarity during chaos 📲 The new productivity app Scott is building to improve team execution 🚀 Why small daily progress beats waiting for perfect momentum Key Takeaways 1. Panic never solves the problem. When everything feels like it's collapsing, focus on facts and the next step. 2. Preparation builds confidence. Scott survived the bank meeting because he had documentation and knew the details of his situation. 3. Just show up. Sometimes the most powerful move you can make is simply showing up and having the conversation. 4. Focus on what's in your hands today. Looking too far ahead creates anxiety. Focus on the step you can take right now. 5. Progress happens one click at a time. Small actions compound into major outcomes over time. 6. Emotional control matters in business. Remaining calm in stressful situations allows you to think strategically. 7. Mentorship and partnerships matter. Scott's experienced partner helped navigate a moment that could have ended everything. 8. Crisis can lead to breakthrough. The same deal that nearly died turned into a multimillion-dollar exit. 9. Clarity creates momentum. Many entrepreneurs simply need someone to help connect the dots. 10. Systems drive execution. The right tools and communication processes help teams move forward efficiently. Connect with Scott 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottmcelroy/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottmcelroy/] Scott works with founders, entrepreneurs, and business leaders to help them find clarity, improve systems, and move their vision forward with practical strategy and execution frameworks. He is also currently developing a team productivity and communication platform designed to help organizations move projects forward with greater clarity and accountability. Call The Damn Leads "By sales professionals, for sales professionals — Tales of your wildest sales stories and tactics to succeed in your sales career across various industries." Join Drewbie Wilson, a sales veteran with over 20 years of experience, as he brings you insider stories, humor, and actionable strategies to excel in your sales journey. Your weekly dose of: 👉Wild Sales Stories: Engaging tales of real-life sales adventures. 👉Proven Tactics: Actionable strategies to boost your sales game. 👉Humor: A fun and energetic perspective on the world of sales. 👉Expert Insights: Learn from seasoned professionals in various industries. Don't miss out on the insights, humor, and strategies that can take your sales career to new heights. If you'd like to be a guest on the show, leave your contact information and a brief message telling us why your story needs to be heard: https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast [https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast] Follow Drewbie: https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides [https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides]Follow Call The Damn Leads: https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads [https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads]

Episode 173 – How Elite Client Experience Builds Powerful Networks | Frank Miulli

In Episode 173, Drewbie sits down with private transportation entrepreneur Frank Miulli to break down a powerful truth many sales professionals overlook: Elite service creates elite opportunities. Frank shares the behind-the-scenes reality of serving high-profile and VIP clients, where small details — from posture to music selection — can make or break long-term relationships. From driving celebrities and high-profile guests to building a transportation business across multiple states, Frank explains how thick skin, attention to detail, and relationship-first thinking have helped him grow a trusted network in completely new markets. But this conversation isn't just about transportation. It's about sales fundamentals that apply to every industry: showing up, listening more than you talk, staying connected, and becoming the person everyone calls when they need something handled. Frank also reveals how he walks into brand-new cities where he knows no one, builds trust from scratch, and turns simple introductions into powerful referral networks. If you want to understand how service, consistency, and humility create massive opportunity in sales and entrepreneurship, this episode delivers the blueprint. Episode Highlights 🚘 Building a VIP transportation business through elite client service 🎤 Stories from driving high-profile guests and celebrities 👂 Why listening is the most powerful networking skill 🏨 Walking into hotels and venues to create new business opportunities 🌎 How Frank enters brand-new markets and builds relationships from scratch 🤝 The power of connecting people even when it doesn't benefit you directly 📞 Why staying connected multiplies opportunities over time 🧠 Reading the room when serving high-level clients 📓 The importance of detailed client notes for repeat experiences ❄️ The freezing Chicago moment that taught a powerful service lesson 🛠 Why entrepreneurs must develop thick skin 📈 How small service improvements create long-term loyalty Key Takeaways 1. Service creates opportunity. People remember how you make them feel — exceptional service opens doors everywhere. 2. Listening builds relationships faster than pitching. When you focus on understanding people's needs, opportunities naturally appear. 3. Stay connected. Your network becomes your greatest asset when you nurture relationships over time. 4. The little details matter. Music choice, conversation level, posture, and small gestures all shape the client experience. 5. Thick skin is required in service businesses. Feedback isn't personal — it's information that helps you improve. 6. Show up where opportunities exist. Frank builds partnerships by walking into venues and introducing himself face-to-face. 7. Connect people whenever possible. Even if you don't benefit immediately, helping others builds long-term trust. 8. Systems create consistency. Tracking preferences and client details ensures every experience feels personalized. 9. Judgment kills opportunity. Treat everyone with the same level of respect and professionalism. 10. Reliability becomes your brand. When people know you'll handle things right, they keep calling you. Connect with Frank 🌐 Website: https://vipgroundtransportation.com [https://vipgroundtransportation.com] 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vips.ride [https://www.instagram.com/vips.ride] Frank specializes in VIP ground transportation and elite client service, providing luxury transportation and concierge-level experiences for high-profile clients and business travelers in Chicago and Colorado. Call The Damn Leads "By sales professionals, for sales professionals — Tales of your wildest sales stories and tactics to succeed in your sales career across various industries." Join Drewbie Wilson, a sales veteran with over 20 years of experience, as he brings you insider stories, humor, and actionable strategies to excel in your sales journey. Your weekly dose of: 👉Wild Sales Stories: Engaging tales of real-life sales adventures. 👉Proven Tactics: Actionable strategies to boost your sales game. 👉Humor: A fun and energetic perspective on the world of sales. 👉Expert Insights: Learn from seasoned professionals in various industries. Don't miss out on the insights, humor, and strategies that can take your sales career to new heights. If you'd like to be a guest on the show, leave your contact information and a brief message telling us why your story needs to be heard: https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast [https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast] Follow Drewbie: https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides [https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides]Follow Call The Damn Leads: https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads [https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads]

Episode 172 – How to Turn Memes, Humor & Value Into Sales | Alan Stern

In Episode 172, Drewbie sits down with Alan Stern to unpack one of the most creative and effective organic marketing strategies used by modern sales professionals: The HEAT Method. Alan shares the story that changed his entire relationship with money and selling — the first time he spoke on stage to 150 people and made a simple $300 offer that generated 15 buyers instantly. That moment opened his eyes to the power of positioning, audience trust, and scalable offers. But Alan's journey didn't start on stage. Before becoming a personal branding consultant and speaker, Alan spent more than a decade selling cars on 100% commission while simultaneously running a DJ company for over 20 years. That environment forced him to master one of the most important skills in modern sales: how to market yourself as the memorable expert without spending money on ads. The result is the HEAT Method — a content strategy that blends Humor, Education, Adding Value, and Trust to turn strangers on social media into warm leads and real business relationships. In a world where AI tools are becoming faster and smarter, Alan explains why authentic human connection is still the most powerful sales advantage you have. If you've ever wondered how to generate leads organically, build authority online, and make sales without feeling spammy or transactional — this episode is a must-listen. Episode Highlights 🎤 The speaking moment that generated 15 sales instantly from the stage 💰 Why a $300 offer changed Alan's mindset about making money 🚗 Selling cars on 100% commission and learning real-world marketing skills 📱 How memes became one of the most powerful organic marketing tools ⏱ Why people only spend 1.7 seconds scanning most online content 🔥 The HEAT Method: Humor, Education, Adding Value, and Trust 😂 Why humor in marketing isn't about being funny — it's about creating connection 📚 How education moves you from salesperson to trusted resource ⚖️ The balance between connection and positioning 🤝 Why people must like you AND respect you to buy from you 🧠 How giving value creates "mental real estate" in people's minds 📲 Turning social media content into referrals and tagged leads 🎧 Using hobbies, interests, and lifestyle to attract natural business opportunities 🧩 Why authenticity is the ultimate organic marketing advantage Key Takeaways 1. Connection beats automation. AI may outpace humans in speed and data — but it cannot replicate genuine human relationships. 2. Humor creates memorability. People remember what makes them laugh. Humor is a gateway to attention and trust. 3. Education builds authority. When you teach instead of sell, people begin to see you as a resource instead of a salesperson. 4. Positioning + connection is the sweet spot. Too much positioning without connection feels transactional. Too much connection without positioning puts you in the friend zone. 5. Value builds trust over time. Every time you introduce someone to something valuable, they associate that value with you. 6. Organic marketing can outperform paid ads. Authentic content shared consistently can generate referrals, conversations, and opportunities without ad spend. 7. Your personality is your differentiator. People don't just buy products — they buy people they trust. 8. Your hobbies can build your network. Shared interests are one of the easiest ways to create authentic relationships that lead to business. 9. Memes can be powerful marketing tools. Simple visuals combined with clear messaging can stop the scroll and start conversations. 10. Sales should be fun. When you enjoy the process of connecting with people, your results improve dramatically. Connect with Alan 🌐 Website: https://connectwithalanstern.com [https://connectwithalanstern.com]🔥 Free Workshop: https://dropsomeheat.com [https://dropsomeheat.com]🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalanstern/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalanstern/] Alan Stern helps professionals build memorable personal brands and generate organic leads using the HEAT Method — Humor, Education, Adding Value, and Trust. Call The Damn Leads "By sales professionals, for sales professionals - Tales of your wildest sales stories and tactics to succeed in your sales career across various industries." Join Drewbie Wilson, a sales veteran with over 20 years of experience, as he brings you insider stories, humor, and actionable strategies to excel in your sales journey. Your weekly dose of: * Wild Sales Stories: Engaging tales of real-life sales adventures. * Proven Tactics: Actionable strategies to boost your sales game. * Humor: A fun and energetic perspective on the world of sales. * Expert Insights: Learn from seasoned professionals in various industries. Don't miss out on the insights, humor, and strategies that can take your sales career to new heights! Sales professionals, entrepreneurs, and small business owners striving to enhance their sales, marketing, and personal growth to achieve financial success and time freedom. If you'd like to be a guest on our show please leave your contact information and a brief message selling us on what makes your story worth sharing! https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast [https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast] * Follow Drewbie: https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides [https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides] * Follow Call The Damn Leads: https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads [https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads]

Episode 171 – How to Start a Service Business With No Money | Chris Garrison

In Episode 171, Drewbie sits down with entrepreneur Chris Garrison to unpack the gritty reality of building a business from the ground up—starting with nothing but hustle, consistency, and the willingness to say yes to opportunity. Chris shares the story of launching his cleaning business while completely broke, knocking on commercial doors, and learning new services on the fly—including watching YouTube tutorials on how to clean windows on the way to his first job. What started as a small door-to-door pitch turned into a $40,000 recurring contract with Rent-A-Center locations, creating the foundation for what would eventually grow into a thriving restoration company. But the conversation goes far deeper than one scrappy sales story. Chris and Drewbie explore the evolution from "say yes to everything" entrepreneur to strategic business owner, the dangerous myth of passive income businesses, and the real mindset shift required to build scalable companies. Chris also shares how learning from mentors, building systems, and surrounding yourself with the right community can accelerate your path toward business ownership and financial independence. If you're a sales professional, entrepreneur, or blue-collar operator looking to grow your income and your impact, this episode delivers a powerful reminder: Success doesn't start with perfection—it starts with action. Episode Highlights * Chris's humble start knocking on commercial doors with zero marketing budget * How a simple window-cleaning job turned into a $40K contract * Learning new services in real time using "YouTube University" * Why being a "yes man" early in business can accelerate growth * When entrepreneurs must start saying no to protect their time * The trap of chasing shiny-object businesses and passive income myths * Why entrepreneurship requires obsession and discipline * The difference between entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship * Why mentorship prevents expensive business mistakes * How communities like Blue Collar Millionaire help operators scale faster Guest Contact Information 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisgarrison 👥 Community: Blue Collar Millionaire Facebook Group 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisgarrison Chris leads one of the largest online communities for blue-collar entrepreneurs, helping business owners scale service companies through systems, mentorship, and collaboration. Call The Damn Leads "By sales professionals, for sales professionals — Tales of your wildest sales stories and tactics to succeed in your sales career across various industries." Join Drewbie Wilson, a sales veteran with over 20 years of experience, as he brings you insider stories, humor, and actionable strategies to excel in your sales journey. Your weekly dose of: * Wild Sales Stories: Engaging tales of real-life sales adventures. * Proven Tactics: Actionable strategies to boost your sales game. * Humor: A fun and energetic perspective on the world of sales. * Expert Insights: Learn from seasoned professionals in various industries. Don't miss out on the insights, humor, and strategies that can take your sales career to new heights. If you'd like to be a guest on the show, leave your contact information and a brief message telling us why your story needs to be heard: https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast [https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast] Follow Drewbie: https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides [https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides]Follow Call The Damn Leads: https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads [https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads]

Episode 170 – The Hidden Rule of Sales | Sean Bellerby

In this episode of Call The Damn Leads, Drewbie sits down with enterprise software sales veteran Sean Bellerby to break down what really drives long-term success in B2B sales. After spending 15+ years in enterprise software sales, Sean has seen everything—from disastrous leadership mistakes to massive last-minute deals that saved entire quarters. Sean shares powerful insights on: * Why relationships are the true currency of enterprise sales * The two rules every salesperson must follow * How trust compounds into unexpected deals months later * Why the first year in a new sales role is the hardest * And how sales professionals can transition from selling someone else's product to building their own high-value offer If you're serious about building a long-term career in sales, generating bigger deals, and creating freedom through your skills, this episode delivers the blueprint. Episode Highlights * Why doing the right thing for your customers always pays off * The story behind a last-minute enterprise deal that saved the quarter * The two sales rules that will protect your reputation forever * Why burning relationships kills long-term sales success * How trust leads to surprise deals months later * The truth about earning potential in enterprise software sales * Why the first 6 months in a new sales job are the hardest * How sales professionals can transition into building their own offers Guest Contact Information 📲 Instagram: https://instagram.com/seanbellerby [https://instagram.com/seanbellerby] 📈 Program: Purpose to Profit – Helping sales professionals build premium offers and transition into selling their own services. Call The Damn Leads "By sales professionals, for sales professionals - Tales of your wildest sales stories and tactics to succeed in your sales career across various industries." Join Drewbie Wilson, a sales veteran with over 20 years of experience, as he brings you insider stories, humor, and actionable strategies to excel in your sales journey. Your weekly dose of: * Wild Sales Stories: Engaging tales of real-life sales adventures. * Proven Tactics: Actionable strategies to boost your sales game. * Humor: A fun and energetic perspective on the world of sales. * Expert Insights: Learn from seasoned professionals in various industries. Don't miss out on the insights, humor, and strategies that can take your sales career to new heights! Sales professionals, entrepreneurs, and small business owners striving to enhance their sales, marketing, and personal growth to achieve financial success and time freedom. If you'd like to be a guest on our show please leave your contact information and a brief message selling us on what makes your story worth sharing! https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast [https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/podcast] * Follow Drewbie: https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides [https://www.facebook.com/drewbierides] * Follow Call The Damn Leads: https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads [https://www.instagram.com/callthedamnleads]