Welcome to The Closers Inner Circle podcast, where we dive deep into the art of sales and closing deals. In a candid conversation with his young son one evening, Ben Gay III stumbled upon a brilliant analogy that perfectly captures the essence of closing, as mastered by sales professionals. Imagine a familiar scene: a slightly awkward teenage boy, on the doorstep, saying goodbye to his date. The stars twinkle above, the porch light illuminates the moment, and the decisive moment has arrived. It's the make-or-break time for that coveted 'goodnight' kiss. Now, the question arises: What steps should this young gentleman take to seal the deal and achieve a successful close? Join us as we unravel the secrets of the sales world and discover how to master the art of closing.  Find more information about this sales technique in The Closers, PT 2, Page 65.  Connect with Denise Griffitts | Buy 'The Closers Books here

Kelly Lovell is a leading authority on empowering the next generation of talent. With 20 prestigious awards under her belt, Kelly has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between formal education and the skills required in the ever-changing job market. Her insights and expertise have made her a sought-after speaker and a trusted advisor to organizations worldwide. In a world where formal education and training alone are no longer enough, our next generation faces unprecedented challenges. Did you know that prior to COVID-19, one in five individuals worldwide were not employed, in education, or undergoing training? Shockingly, 75% of these individuals, known as NEETs, were women according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). The pandemic has further exacerbated the skills gap, disproportionately impacting young people and women with job loss and education disruption. In today's episode, we'll be discussing the skills needed for the future of work and the challenges faced by young talent. We'll explore emerging job fields that offer exciting opportunities and examine how digital innovation is reshaping career pathways and skill requirements. We'll dive into the widening skills gap and the education challenges that hinder the progress of our youth. Kelly will share valuable insights on strategies to upskill in the digital economy, including the fascinating world of web3. Kelly will share how we can effectively prepare for the future of jobs and ensure that no young person is left behind in the job market. Connect with Kelly Lovell: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter

Welcome to today's podcast episode where we delve into the pressing question of why an increasing number of individuals are experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety. We explore the global nature of this phenomenon and its profound implications on life expectancy. But fear not, as we uncover the power of meditation as a solution and offer insights into how we can assist anyone in embracing this transformative practice. Discover the numerous benefits of meditation and why it holds such incredible potential for personal growth and well-being. Furthermore, we delve into the world of Tech-Assisted Meditation, giving you a glimpse of the transformative experience individuals can expect when integrating technology into their meditation journey. So sit back, relax, and prepare to explore the answers to these thought-provoking questions. About My Guest Craig Goldberg is a Technologist & Certified Vibroacoustic Therapy Practitioner on a quest to help humanity achieve a deeper sense of inner calmness through the use of sound and vibration. His work is backed by 40+ years of research. As a patented inventor, he is constantly exploring new ways to help people reduce stress and anxiety, heal, and transform their lives for the better. Connect with Craig Goldberg on the internet: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter

Ken Atchity is a multi-talented author, literary entrepreneur, and film producer known for his expertise in storytelling. With a successful career spanning decades, he has written captivating books, represented authors, and produced films. His passion for storytelling and commitment to helping others unleash their creative potential make him a prominent figure in the industry. In addition to his literary management and coaching business, Ken recently added “Write Your Own Obituary” to his consulting options. Who better? After all, he wrote his own obit. My Obit 2: My Southern Belle The train that carried the author south from Kansas City to his native Cajun homeland was named “The Southern Belle,” which the young Atchity believed referred to his mother’s all-powerful control over his imagination. He left a world of grape leaves, cabbage rolls, and houmus for steak & gravy, shrimp etouffee, gumbo, and boiled crawfish—and a welcome world of tall tales, endless jokes, and fishing stories that kept folks on the front porch for hours at a time. Where Vol 1, Daddy Holding Me, focused on his father, My Southern Belle analyzes the parent who inspired his multiple careers as an editor, writer, professor, literary manager, and producer. Where his father was a straightlaced accountant, Atchity’s mother was a raconteur, jokester, and improvisational spinner of yarns of varying levels of veracity. Passive-aggressive, with boundless energy, and intensely optimistic, she created an environment that drove her children to excel and entertain in whatever they undertook. Connect with Ken Atchity: Website | Amazon | LinkedIn

Meet Liz Kislik, an accomplished management consultant and executive coach with an impressive track record. Her expertise has graced the pages of renowned publications such as Harvard Business Review and Forbes, establishing her as a trusted voice in the field. With her TEDx talk titled "Why There’s So Much Conflict at Work and What You Can Do to Fix It" amassing over 450,000 views, her captivating insights have resonated with a wide audience. For three decades Liz has been dedicated to cultivating high-performing leaders and workforces. She has successfully tackled challenging issues for various organizations, including family-run businesses, national nonprofits, and Fortune 500 companies like American Express, Girl Scouts, Staples, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and Highlights for Children.  Liz's work has been recognized by publications such as the Wall Street Journal's Morning Download, the Washington Post, Business Insider, and Bloomberg Businessweek. Additionally, her articles have been featured in Harvard Business Press books, including the Guide to Motivating People, Dealing with Difficult People, and Guide to Power and Impact. She has also contributed to publications like Entrepreneur, the European Financial Review, and the Forward. Being a member of Marshall Goldsmith's 100 Coaches initiative, Liz is part of an elite group that brings together top coaches and thinkers. She has shared her knowledge as a faculty member at prestigious institutions such as Hofstra University and New York University. Liz's expertise has also made her a sought-after guest on numerous podcasts, where she continues to inspire listeners with her practical wisdom. LinkedIn | Twitter

In the chapter titled "Sales Infiltration" from Ben Gay III's book, "The Closers Pt 2," he discusses effective strategies for penetrating new territories and making sales. Key points include: Building rapport and trust with potential clients.Thoroughly researching the target market to understand their needs.Developing a unique selling proposition (USP) to differentiate from competitors.Leveraging referrals and personal recommendations.Being persistent and resilient in the face of rejection.Networking and attending industry events to build relationships.Adopting a problem-solving mindset to position as a trusted advisor. By implementing these strategies, salespeople can successfully infiltrate new markets and drive sales. Connect with Denise Griffitts | Buy The Closers Books

Jessica Weaver is a highly accomplished professional in the finance world, making waves and inspiring women across the nation.  Jessica Weaver, CFP, CDFA, CFS is a wealth advisor, 3 times best selling author, and owner/founder of the Women's Wealth Boutique, the fastest growing woman owned financial firm in the US. The Women's Wealth Boutique was founded in 2022 to create a supportive environment for women financial advisors and women investors. WWB is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm with women financial advisors in states across the US. Jessica was named the top 10 female disruptors of 2022 after disrupting the financial industry with her new firm and #pinkfix movement. Her company operates as a multimedia enterprise, offering books, podcasts, magazines, and remarkable events. Through these platforms, she empowers individuals to take charge of their financial futures. Connect with Jessica: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon | Podcast | Free Audio Book of Confessions of a Money Queen

Almost dying usually has the effect of epiphanies and radical life transformations; Alison’s didn’t. Surviving surgical complications, Alison woke up after 6 days in suspended animation and 3 hospital stays and started rebuilding her life. Her epiphany was she was already living life right, unboxed, and on her own terms. A life free from expectations, limitations, and blindspots. She was definitely not living in the boxes or within the boundaries, others tried to impose on her throughout her life and career. Alison’s life has never been ordinary. From her fifth-grade math teacher calling her mom to say the boys didn’t like that she raised her hand first in math class, to earning a Master’s In Engineering at a time that was rare for women. She swam for an inner-city YMCA and became a Division 1 Scholarship Swimmer. She also solo backpacks, dives with sharks, and paddleboards in the ocean with whales. After a 30-year career in tech working for huge corporations and 7 startups resulting in 6 exits, Alison left to be an executive coach. Her mission is to be the thinking partner she wished she had on her corporate journey to make the road easier for others than it was for herself. She is her clients' fiercest champion and challenger on their journey to reach their big audacious goals. Alison guides her clients to unbox their life and career for greater fulfillment, happiness, and success.  This allows them to take control of their destiny, living life on their own terms and embracing the limitless possibilities existing beyond the boundaries of convention and tradition. Connect with Alison: Website | LinkedIn

The Closers, written by Ben Gay III, is one of the most famous and powerful books on closing sales ever written. It is a comprehensive guide to the art and science of sales closing, covering everything from mindset and communication skills to tactics and techniques. In Chapter 2 of The Closers, (Showing How a Closer Thinks) Ben delves into the psychology of a closer and how they think. He explains that closers are not born, but made through experience, training, and a willingness to learn and improve. One of the key insights he provides is that closers think differently from ordinary salespeople. They understand that closing a sale is not just about making a transaction, but about building relationships and trust with their clients. They approach every interaction with a client as an opportunity to learn more about their needs, concerns, and motivations. Closers also have a clear understanding of the value of their product or service. They believe in what they are selling and are able to communicate that belief to their clients with conviction and enthusiasm. They are not afraid to ask for the sale, but they do so in a way that is respectful and non-threatening. Another key characteristic of a closer's mindset is their ability to handle rejection. They know that not every client will say yes, but they do not take it personally. Instead, they view rejection as an opportunity to learn and improve. They ask their clients for feedback and use that feedback to refine their approach and strategy. And closers are always looking for ways to improve their skills and knowledge. They read books, attend seminars, and seek out mentors to learn from. They know that the key to success in sales closing is constant learning and improvement. Connect with Denise Griffitts | Connect with Ben Gay III 530-409-0080

Angie Morgan Witkowski is a New York Times bestselling author, leadership coach, and keynote speaker. Angie learned how to lead in the Marine Corps – an experience that inspires her work. Her most recent book, Bet on You: How to Win with Risk examines how to enact risk in meaningful ways. In 'Bet on You', Angie Morgan and Courtney Lynch reveal hard-earned, real-world insights that will help you realize your potential by enacting risk in ways most meaningful to you. The author’s risk-taking guidance has been embraced by the world’s best businesses – Google, Boston Scientific, FedEx, and Oracle.  Their insights are the secret sauce behind any transformative journey to a success-filled life. Connect with Angie online: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Rob Volpe is an astute observer of life and a master storyteller who brings empathy and compassion to the human experience. As CEO of Ignite 360, he leads a team of insights, strategy, and creative professionals serving the world’s leading brands across a range of industries. He is the author of Tell Me More About That: Solving the Empathy Crisis One Conversation at a Time. As a thought leader in the role of empathy in marketing and the workplace, he is a contributor to Entrepreneur’s Leadership Network and frequently speaks on the topic at conferences, corporations, colleges, podcasts and with the media. It’s time to shape up your empathy muscle.  Empathy is in short supply these days—and it’s hurting all of us. From the rise in workplace tension and school bullying to increased anxiety and depression, a lack of empathy for one another is wearing away at the gears of society, grinding us down to the nubs. The very technology that is supposed to keep us connected is actually driving us apart, with face-to-face interactions on the decline and news filtered through an echo chamber that shelters us from other points of view. But all is not lost. Just as physical workouts strengthen your body, there are ways to build up your empathy as well. In 'Tell Me More About That', Rob draws on his years of conducting thousands of in-home interviews with everyday people to illustrate the 5 Steps to Empathy—the actions you can take to build a strong and reflexive empathy muscle. Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

The Sales Bible: How Ben Gay III's 'The Closers Pt 1 and Pt 2' Revolutionized the Sales Industry Ben Gay III is a renowned author, speaker, and trainer who has made a significant impact on the field of sales. He is best known for his work, "The Closers," which is considered the sales bible by many professionals. Ben is a legend in the sales industry, and his contribution to the field cannot be overstated. His training methods and books have helped thousands of salespeople improve their skills and increase their income. Throughout his career, Ben has been a speaker, trainer, and consultant for some of the biggest names in the business world. He has trained sales teams for IBM, AT&T, and General Electric, to name a few. He is known for his no-nonsense approach to sales training and has helped thousands of salespeople improve their skills and increase their income. The Closers Pt 1" covers the basics of sales and teaches readers how to prospect, qualify leads, and make effective sales presentations. It also covers objection handling, closing techniques, and how to build long-term customer relationships. The Closers Pt 2" is a more advanced guide to sales, focusing on complex sales situations and larger deals. It covers topics such as negotiating, selling to groups, and dealing with competition. These books are must-reads for anyone who wants to succeed in sales, and Ben Gay III's legacy will continue to inspire sales professionals for generations to come. Drop by, ask questions. We are here to help! Connect with Denise Griffitts and Ben Gay III on the web: Denise Griffitts | Ben Gay III | Email Ben

Anthony Iannarino is a highly respected author, speaker, and sales leader who has spent over three decades helping individuals and organizations achieve their sales goals. He is the author of several best-selling books, including "The Only Sales Guide You'll Ever Need" and "Elite Sales Strategies: A Guide to Being One-Up, Creating Value, and Becoming Truly Consultative." Anthony's passion for sales is infectious, and his expertise in the field is second to none. Anthony has a talent for breaking down complex sales concepts into simple, actionable steps that anyone can implement to achieve success. As a speaker, Anthony has shared his insights with audiences around the world, inspiring them to take action and improve their sales performance. His podcasts and blog posts are followed by thousands of sales professionals who appreciate his candid and insightful commentary on the latest trends and best practices in the field. Connect with Anthony Iannarino on the web: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon

Ben Gay III has dedicated his life to studying and perfecting the art of sales. He has personally trained and mentored thousands of salespeople, and his techniques have helped countless businesses achieve unprecedented success. But what sets Ben apart is his willingness to share his lifetime of success stories with others. Ben understands that success is not just about making money; it's about helping others achieve their goals and dreams. And that's why he's made it his mission to pass on his knowledge and experience to others. In his books, "The Closers," Ben shares his proven methods for closing sales and building lasting relationships with clients. So, if you're looking to take your sales game to the next level, then you won't want to miss this episode. Join us as we dive into Ben's life and career and learn how his insights and strategies can help you achieve the success you deserve. Connect with Ben Gay and Denise Griffitts online: Ben Gay III | Denise Griffitts

The long-term leader doesn't need to control everybody or every situation. They don't need to know everything. They definitely don't need to be bossy. ~ Scott Agnew Scott Agnew has dedicated his life to helping leaders discover their greatest potential inside themselves. His passion is leveraging personal leadership dynamics to make a positive impact on the people around him. Scott loves to support his followers to find effective, implementable systems for their business and personal growth strategies. There is no shortcut to developing authentic leadership qualities in this day and age when the world is looking for a quick fix. Dependable, trustworthy, genuine leaders are rare, and even fewer stand the test of time. Why is this true? Too many obstacles can shortcut your path – distractions, overwhelm, and perhaps the worst of all is the perfectionism that stops so many great managers from achieving CEO levels of success. The long-term leader thinks differently, acts differently, and consistently sees the world through the perspective of time. Without time, everything is temporary or haphazard at best. When you apply the lens of the future, looking out while also looking inward, you start to guide yourself and your team from an internal state of unwavering confidence because you can see where no one else can. You guide and lead from a place of tranquility and peace, knowing that what you are building is here to last.  Connect with Scott online: Website | LinkedIn | Amazon

Breaking Down Organizational Barriers in Supply Chain Management with John Mink In this podcast, I will be joined by John Mink, a business veteran with over 30 years of experience, 20 of which were spent in Supply Chain. John has achieved great success in breaking down traditional organizational barriers that can impede success in companies, particularly within the realm of supply chain. Through trial, error, and continuous learning, John has been privileged to shepherd both large and small organizations in driving improvements through their Sales and Operations (S&OP) process, boosting both the customer experience and financial results. While many professionals understand the science behind S&OP, they may lack the interpersonal and leadership skills necessary to achieve sustainable results. In his book "Forecasting With Out-Liars: Mitigating Blame, Bias, and Apathy in Your Planning Process to Drive Meaningful and Sustainable Financial Improvements," John attempts to change the narrative around supply chain issues through real-life experiences and how they were addressed. If you're tired of hearing the same rhetoric about how supply will get better, we urge you to tune in and hear John's unique perspective on how to systemically change for the better. Our goal is to provide you with ideas and insights that can help you and your organization see supply chain issues in a whole new light. So, join me as I chat with John Mink and gain new perspectives on how to drive sustainable results in supply chain management. Connect with John Mink on the web: Website - John Mink Consulting | LinkedIn | Amazon

Unconventional Business Strategies in a Changing Business Landscape with guest Alexandra Nolan Fear is a natural feeling when considering entrepreneurism. Don’t let it stifle your dreams. ~ Alexandra Nolan ALEXANDRA NOLAN, featured on “Yahoo’s Most Inspiring Influencers” list, is a self-made digital entrepreneur, founder of City Chic Living Blog and The UE Academy, and mother of three. She obtained her MBA from the University of Memphis, studied International Business Studies at Bournemouth University in England, is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Marketing, and has appeared in “Forbes,” as well as many other notable national publications. Through her passion as a women empowerment speaker and mentor to many small business owners, Alexandra is paving the way for aspiring entrepreneurs all over the world. Connect with Alexandra on the web: City Chic Living | Alexandra Nicole Nolan | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook

Welcome to today's episode! Today, we'll be diving into a topic that has the potential to transform your life and unlock your full potential. We'll be talking about The Daily Success System that was taught by the legendary Dr. Napoleon Hill to Ben Gay III. The Daily Success System is a powerful tool that has helped countless people achieve success in their lives and careers. It's all about setting goals, creating a plan of action, and consistently working towards those goals every day. In this episode, we'll be exploring the principles behind The Daily Success System, and how you can apply them to your own life to achieve the success you desire. We'll be discussing some of the key elements of the system, including goal setting, visualization, and positive thinking. So if you're ready to unlock your full potential and achieve the success you've always dreamed of, then stay tuned for today's episode on The Closers Inner Circle. Let's dive in! Connect with Denise Griffitts | Connect with Ben Gay III

Prachee Kale is helping introverted techies become superstar leaders and bringing design thinking to cybersecurity. She is combining her 17 year expertise in cybersecurity, business strategy, DEI and, executive coaching through Think.Design.Cyber’s unique offerings. She is the CEO/Co-founder of Think.Design.Cyber and Executive Fellow at CyberTheory Institute. Prachee joins us today to talk about introverts which is a topic close to my heart as I am one. I am not shy... not even close to be honest, but I need to be alone 98% of the time. So imagine my delight during the preinterview when she said she could talk extensively and passionately about introverts and how we contribute in the world! She is here to share why she feels introverts important as the voice of change and how they creative force without changing their personalities. In short, she joins us to dispel myths, stories and bias about introverts. We will talk about: Solving the challenges that introverts face in their jobs.How to position yourself strongly in high stake situations.How to become visible to senior management.Overcoming apprehensions against self-promotion, networking and relationship building.How to apply practical tips and tools to your daily life to manage burnout and resistance. Connect with Prachee on the web: Website | LinkedIn

Ben Gay III: A Living Sales Legend with an 86% Closing Rate In the world of sales, few names are as well-known and respected as Ben Gay III. With decades of experience under his belt, Ben has become a true legend in the field of selling, and for good reason. Not only has he achieved an impressive 86% closing rate, but he also continues to sell products and services on a daily basis, both for his own business and for those of his clients. So, what is it that sets Ben apart from other sales trainers? For starters, his hands-on approach is something that many find refreshing. Unlike other trainers who may have retired from selling years ago, Ben is still actively engaged in the sales process, which allows him to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and trends. He understands firsthand the challenges that salespeople face on a day-to-day basis, and he knows what it takes to overcome those challenges and achieve success. Join us on The Closers Inner Circle each Wednesday as we talk about sales training, communication, modern human potential and so much more! Connect with us on the web: Ben Gay III | Denise Griffitts