EP 20: Advancing Sales Education: From Classrooms to Cutting-Edge Careers with Dan Strunk

Ep 21: Marketing Rewired: How Sales Pros Can Win in 2025 with Dacia Coffey

Today on The Best Sellers podcast, I’m excited to welcome a powerhouse in the world of marketing and sales strategy — Dacia Coffey. She’s the CEO of The Marketing Blender, a top-tier B2B marketing agency, and a leading advocate for aligning marketing and sales to drive real business growth.  Named one of the most influential women in B2B marketing, Dacia brings bold insights, fresh perspectives, and proven strategies that help companies amplify their brand and accelerate revenue. Show notes: 02:22 Meet Marketing Powerhouse Dacia Coffee 03:53 Marketing Strategies for 2025 11:12 The Role of AI and Automation in Sales 14:36 The Evolution of Marketing Funnels 18:30 Content Strategy Insights for 2025 20:01 Building Trust in Sales Through Marketing 22:32 Aligning Sales and Marketing Teams 24:55 Defining Marketing and Sales Qualified Leads 25:52 Bridging the Gap Between Marketing and Sales 27:02 The Role of Fractional CMOs 30:36 Aligning Messaging Across Channels 35:10 Brand Storytelling in Sales 37:21 Benefits of Fractional CMOs 44:45 Rapid Fire Questions

EP 20: Advancing Sales Education: From Classrooms to Cutting-Edge Careers with Dan Strunk

How has sales evolved from 1.0 to 3.0? What essential skills do modern sales professionals need to master for the future? Join us as we dive into these questions with Dan Strunk, an expert in sales education at Purdue University. From aggressive listening to the role of AI, we explore the dynamics of contemporary sales and how academic programs are bridging the gap to real-world success. Discover the strategic importance of internships, the changing landscape of retail and B2B sales, and actionable advice for aspiring sales professionals. Tune in for an insightful discussion on preparing the next generation of sales leaders. 01:26 Meet Dan Strunk: Sales Education Expert 02:36 Dan Strunk's Journey in Sales and Education 04:00 Building Successful Sales Programs 05:21 Innovations in Sales Education 06:34 The Future of Sales and Technology 12:00 Essential Skills for Modern Sales Professionals 14:27 Integrating Real-World Challenges in Sales Education 15:45 The Importance of Internships 18:33 Success Stories and Mentorship 20:16 The Role of AI in Sales Education 21:54 Advice for Sales Leaders and New Graduates 26:48 Rapid Fire Round: Fun and Insights

EP 19: Inside the Mind: TTI’s New Frontier in Neuroscience & the new TTI Mind Science Center - with Dr. Ron Bonnstetter

Exploring the Intersection of Neuroscience and Sales with Dr. Ron Bonstetter In this episode of Best Sellers podcast, host Doug welcomes Dr. Ron Bonstetter, VP of Research and Development at Target Training International (TTI). Dr. Ron shares insights from his journey, starting as a professor and transitioning to a leading role at TTI. The discussion dives deep into the science behind behavioral assessments like DISC, and how neuroscience can enhance our understanding of human performance in business and sales. Dr. Ron also talks about the innovative work at TTI’s Mind Science Center and its potential to revolutionize leadership and talent development. Tune in to discover how understanding cognitive biases and brain activity can drive better decision-making and personal growth. 00:52 Welcome to the Best Sellers Podcast 01:30 Meet Dr. Ron Tud 02:46 Dr. Ron's Journey in Behavioral Science 03:56 From Academia to TTI 05:03 The Power of Self-Assessment 08:15 The Birth of the Mind Science Center 10:15 Exploring DISC and Behavioral Models 14:30 The Role of Neuroscience in Business 25:53 Applying Behavioral Science in Sales 31:31 Rapid Fire Bestsellers Blitz 32:38 Conclusion and Farewell

E18: Selling with Integrity: Mike Esterday on Values-Driven Sales Success

In this episode of The Best Sellers Podcast, Doug welcomes Mike Esterday, Vice Chair of Integrity Solutions.  They discuss the essential elements of integrity selling and the importance of building trust and rapport with clients. Mike shares insights from his extensive career in sales and leadership, emphasizing the significance of mindset, emotional intelligence, and understanding clients' needs. They also touch on modern sales tools, coaching strategies, and overcoming challenges like sales burnout and evolving buyer behaviors.  Mike Esterday first discovered his talent for sales when he ranked number one out of 6,000 sales professionals in his first sales role, and then recruited and managed hundreds of salespeople. For over forty years, Mike has been a sought-after speaker, author and leader in sales training and performance improvement.  After 13 years as CEO of Integrity Solutions, Mike now serves as Vice Chair. A past board member of ISA, the global Association of Learning Providers, he is a regular contributor to Forbes Business Council and Top Sales Magazines worldwide. Mike is co-author of the book Listen to Sell [https://www.integritysolutions.com/listen-to-sell/]: How Your Mindset, Skillset, and Human Connections Unlock Sales Performance. Mike lives in Nashville, TN with his wife, Terry, and they have three grown children. 00:00 Breaking Down Barriers in Sales 01:00 Introduction to the Best Sellers Podcast 02:11 Meet Mike Esterday: Sales Excellence Journey 03:40 Mike's Early Sales Experiences 05:52 Integrity Selling Solutions: A Unique Approach 08:11 Values-Based Selling and Core Values 11:57 The Importance of Trust and Rapport 13:14 Sales Tools and Overcoming Obstacles 16:05 Traits of Top Sales Performers 17:08 Instilling a Culture of Coaching and Accountability 18:07 Coaching for Potential 18:40 Understanding Buyer Behavior 20:07 Maintaining Team Integrity in Remote Work 20:59 Cultivating a Sales Mindset 23:52 Challenges for Future Sales Professionals 25:23 Measuring Success in Sales Training 27:13 Addressing Sales Burnout 32:44 Rapid Fire Questions 34:23 Conclusion and Resources

Ep 17: How to Create a High-Performance Sales Culture with Chuck Thokey

In this episode of the Best Sellers podcast, Chuck Thokey, CEO of Top Rep Training, shares his expertise in sales leadership and training. Listen as Chuck discusses the importance of having a cohesive team, the impact of COVID-19 on the sales process, and the necessity of adapting to modern sales tools. He also highlights the critical role of training and accountability in sales success, the importance of recognition and motivation, and effective closing techniques. Whether you're a new sales leader or a seasoned pro, Chuck's insights will help you level up your sales game. 00:00 Building Trust with Your Sales Team 00:56 Introduction to the Best Sellers Podcast 02:04 Meet Chuck Thokey: Sales Coach Extraordinaire 04:14 Chuck's Journey from Aerospace Engineer to Sales Coach 06:10 The Evolution of Sales Post-COVID 10:17 Essential Sales Tools and Techniques 18:12 Leadership in Results-Based Sales Organizations 22:53 Sales Excellence and Accountability 24:07 Effective Closing Techniques 26:18 Handling Objections in Sales 31:17 Balancing Coaching and Leading 36:51 Ensuring Consistent Performance 42:37 Rapid Fire Round 43:40 Conclusion and Contact Information