TheInquisitor Podcast with Marcus Cauchi

Marcus Cauchi, Laughs Last Ltd

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Business Insights & Strategies From Experts: Unveiling Simple Truths Behind Success.

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527 episodes

Frank Byskov: Are Ethical Investments Smart Money?

In this episode of the Inquisitor podcast, host Marcus Cauchi sits down with Frank Byskov, a financial advisor and wealth manager at 44 Financial, to delve into the world of sustainable investment—a subject that has not been extensively covered on the show before. Byskov, with a rich background in financial economics and a personal journey from Denmark to establishing his firm in the United States, advocates for investments that align with one's life values, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. The conversation navigates through the complexities and common misconceptions surrounding sustainable investment, shedding light on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors and how they contribute to making informed, value-aligned investment decisions. Byskov explains the tangible benefits of sustainable investment, not only from a financial perspective but also in terms of the broader impact on society and the environment. Listeners are guided on how to start their journey towards sustainable investing, highlighting the significance of aligning investments with personal values and the positive emotional return that accompanies such alignment. Byskov stresses the importance of patience, research, and possibly seeking professional advice to navigate this nuanced field effectively. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how sustainable investment can contribute to personal wealth while fostering a positive impact on the world, emphasising that it is possible to achieve financial returns without compromising ethical values. ** Take the selling aptitude test. Learn something you don't know about yourself. Something you can improve within 30 days and a learning pathway for the next 12 months.  https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Then grab 30 minutes for an unvarnished feedback session. No charge and I won't pitch you coaching. If you want me to coach you, ask me.

35m
Mar 21, 2024
Starting Up, Working with Your Spouse, and Finding Joy in your Work - Julie Barlow/Jean-Benoit Nadeau

Do what you love and you will never work a day in your life!   In this episode, Marcus Cauchi is joined by Julie Barlow, a prolific writer, for an engaging conversation that delves deep into the nuances of the writing business, the intricacies of negotiating with clients, and the art of principled selling. Barlow, alongside her partner Jean-Benoit Nadeau, has navigated the complex landscape of self-employment to build a successful writing business, encapsulating the journey in their book "Going Solo." The episode illuminates the often-overlooked aspects of starting and running a writing business, from understanding market needs to setting realistic expectations and the importance of communication. Julie shares valuable insights on the significance of aligning one's work with their core values, and how this alignment not only aids in achieving professional success but also in fostering meaningful relationships with clients. Listeners are treated to practical advice on how to approach negotiations, emphasising the need for clear communication and mutual understanding to create win-win scenarios. Julie also highlights common pitfalls for new entrepreneurs, such as underestimating the value of their work or failing to recognise when to say no to potential clients. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone considering or currently navigating the world of self-employment, offering a blend of practical strategies, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice to help listeners build a fulfilling and sustainable career on their own terms. *** Want to know what your buyers are really experiencing when you sell? https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp 30 minute free debrief and consult

56m
Mar 20, 2024
John Bissett: Quit the Monkey Business and Sell Well

Are your buyers tired of the same old sales tactics that leave them feeling manipulated and disengaged? Join Marcus Cauchi and John Bissett as they expose the toxic underbelly of conventional selling wisdom. In this no-holds-barred discussion, these two grizzled sales veterans don't hold back. John rips into the self-serving nature of common qualification frameworks, arguing they provide zero value to the buyer. "We're taught techniques that are all about controlling the process, not facilitating the sale," he laments. Marcus chimes in with a blistering critique of the metrics that plague modern sales teams. "Leaders push for revenue without considering long-term customer relationships. This cascades down, perpetuating bad seller behaviours." If you're sick of being held hostage by arbitrary targets that encourage actions that make you a threat to your buyer's unconscious mind, prepare to have your eyes opened. These battle-hardened sellers aren't just playing backseat drivers. They offer a compelling alternative vision  where buyers and sellers are partners, equal business stature, different roles, and both can say no, they are sovereign. Appealing to your buyer's true motivation to change requires you listen deeply, apply empathy and acumen to ask questions that uncover the truth and what is possible - you guide them through change, not force them into it. Tired of the same old sales dogma? Ready to evolve beyond conventional wisdom and connect with buyers on a human level? Then strap in, because Marcus and John are about to take you on a journey that just might transform the way you sell. Contatc John via linkedin.com/in/🐒-john-bissett-395b026 https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%90%92-john-bissett-395b026 Website: slingshotedge.com  http://www.slingshotedge.com/(Company) ** Are you at a crossroads in your life and career, seeking a certain path that aligns with your values and allows you to make a meaningful impact?  How you sell and succeed matters. If you're ready to embrace a sales philosophy rooted in integrity, empathy, and service to others, we invite you to join our movement. Be the change. Lead by example. Visit thesellercode.org https://thesellercode.org/. If our values resonate with who you are at your core and how you want to be successful on your own terms you have an ally in me. My gift is a 30 minutes coaching session for free. Take my selling aptitude test and I will share what your scores mean to your customers, to your pipeline and identify what you can do immediately to improve results within 90 days: https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp  

58m
Mar 15, 2024
Are You Sacrificing Your Soul in the Pursuit of "Success"? with James Cuss

The only constant is change and yet, you appear stuck doing what used to work, and doing more of it in the hope that will change the outcome! Do you feel constantly exhausted but fear you're failing if you're not grinding non-stop? My guest, James Cuss was burning the candle at both ends for empty praise and status, yet inside felt more drained and unfulfilled each day. In this raw, uncensored conversation you'll hear the gut-wrenching moment he realised chasing more of what was making him unhappy was madness. Hard-won insights strip away illusions to expose the hollow lie threatening everything that mattered most. Discover: __ How chasing external rewards and status, comparing to impossible expectations crushed his spirit, health and was hurting his most important relationships. He picked family and self-care over proving worth and dodging imposter syndrome. Which dialy practices kept his essence from being squeezed out by the pursuit of possessions and approval. __ In a no-holds-barred glimpse into reclaiming success on their own terms, learn to separate the phantoms of "success" from what nourishes your humanity. Dare to stop numbing out gripping fears through constant busyness and acquisition. Challenge cultural assumptions sacrificing your well-being to exhaustion and powering through burnout as the path to significance. Liberate yourself from empty noise dragging you under and discover prosperity, purpose and peace within. This raw, cathartic journey challenges everything you think you know about finding happiness. Are you ready to hit reset and live fully present, on your own intuitive path? Let's hit play and start living for our highest selves instead of lowest compulsions. Contatc James via linkedin.com/in/james-cuss-e-commerce-entrepreneur-subscription-marketplace-retail-consumer-finance https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-cuss-e-commerce-entrepreneur-subscription-marketplace-retail-consumer-finance Websites __ __ Phone: +4407540287573 (Work) Email: james@rocketindustries.co.uk -- Free Yourself From Sales Dogma and Start Thriving on Your Terms! Are you a top performer who knows there's a better way than hustle culture, but can't quite breakthrough on your own? Marcus demolishes tired mental scripts and old thinking that are holding you back to liberate you to succeed according to your highest self. As a world-renowned sales coach, Marcus has navigated 7 previous recessions to understand how to help his client continually outperform regardless of conditions. Through thoughtful questioning, we will strip away hustle for an aligned mindset serving customers instead of metrics, serving your values instead of your fears. Marcus' coaching zeroes in beyond superficial fixes to uproot internal demons stealing your fire. By cultivating foundational human skills rather than weaponised techniques and manipulation,  you will find your rhythm enlisting prospects as allies instead of resisting targets. Let one session with Marcus unlock natural talents through guidance freely reflecting your essence, not dogma. And it's free. Take my selling audit and I will debrief you for free for 30-minutes. I won't pitch you coaching. You can buy it but I won't push it unless you ask. Take the first step to prosperity with soul by clicking https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp

1h 2m
Feb 29, 2024
Disco Dave Wynn

In this dynamic episode of the Inquisitor podcast, Marcus Cauchi delves into the philosophical and transformative with Disco Dave Wynn. Wynn, an advocate for using music as a medium for profound personal development, shares his unique approach to coaching, encapsulated in his creation called "music mapping." This method intertwines music and coaching to unlock deep personal insights and catalyse change. Listeners are taken on a journey exploring how individuals can become the DJs of their own lives, using their agency to craft experiences that resonate deeply with their essence. The discussion uncovers the power of intentionality and choice in shaping our lives, emphasising the importance of being conscious about our decisions, especially in challenging moments. Dave's insights into overcoming personal narratives that limit potential, coupled with Marcus's probing questions, make for an enlightening conversation. This episode is not just about music's role in personal transformation but also about facing life's challenges with a creative and open mindset. This episode serves as a beacon for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of life with grace, understanding, and a bit of rhythm, reminding us that within the chaos of life's rapid changes, there lies an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Ciontact Dave via linkedin.com/in/disco-dave-wynn https://www.linkedin.com/in/disco-dave-wynn Website: discodavewynn.com  https://www.discodavewynn.com/(Company) Phone: 07708 756403 (Mobile) ** Want to know what you're doing to frighten off buyers? And how to turn frowns into wynns! https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp  

1h 8m
Feb 01, 2024
Emma Claire Davis: Who Are You Really?

Are you ready to take your sales career to the next level? In my conversation with transformative coach, Emma Claire Davis, we discussed how top performers approach their work in a whole-life, values-led way. Rather than chasing the next deal or promotion, they align their careers with a deeper purpose of making a positive impact. Emma shared how understanding our true nature allows us to feel fully present in conversations without fear. This cultivates authentic connections that lead to increased sales. We explored how maintaining well-being across aspects of our lives actually boosts performance in the long run. Too often, overworking and an imbalanced lifestyle hold us back. But taking a whole-life approach means leaving space to invest in relationships, communities and personal growth. Emma also revealed how getting curious about our thoughts and emotions, rather than reacting to them, provides clarity and confidence. This inner work is key for navigating challenges that will only increase in today's uncertain world. This episode will invite you to reflect deeply, think differently and challenge your limitations. Connect with Emma on LinkedIn via linkedin.com/in/emmaclairedavis https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmaclairedavis Websites __ __ And be sure to ask about her leadership retreats! ** If you want to take your performance up several notches take my selling audit, grab 30 minutes in my diary, no charge. I won't pitch, just give honest feedback as if you were a paying client. If you want to talk about coaching by the end of that, ask me.  https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp I'm taking on 5 private coaching clients this quarter. If you want to be one of them, click the link above, and tell me you want to talk about coaching.

1h 6m
Jan 31, 2024
Margie Oleson

Margie Oleson, founder and CEO of Olson Consulting, chats with Marcus Cauchi to explore the transformative power of leadership and the importance of eliminating organisational silos. Margie shares her wealth of experience in developing the Top Team Accelerator, a programme designed to assist senior leaders and their teams in creating more cohesive, effective, and better-run companies. The discussion delves into the common blind spots leaders face, such as the misconception that they are the only ones experiencing challenges, leading to a culture of isolation and the perpetuation of dysfunctional communication practices within organisations. Margie emphasises the critical need for leaders to recognise their own areas for improvement and to embrace the art and science of leadership, which many may not realise they lack. The conversation also highlights the significant impact of leadership practices on organisational culture and success. Margie argues that most leadership issues stem from a disconnect between knowledge and implementation, often hindered by the human brain's resistance to change. By addressing these blind spots and implementing structured processes, Margie says organisations can achieve greater alignment, reduce workplace gossip, and foster a culture of trust and collaboration. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the vital role leadership plays in the success of an organisation, the importance of addressing and overcoming common leadership challenges, and the benefits of creating a more aligned, communicative, and effective leadership team. Margie's insights provide valuable guidance for leaders looking to navigate the complexities of organisational dynamics and lead their teams to greater success. Contact Margie via linkedin.com/in/margieoleson https://www.linkedin.com/in/margieoleson Website: oleson-consulting.com/  https://www.oleson-consulting.com/(Company) *** Grab 30 minutes with me for a debrief on your results from the Sales Strategy Audit. No charge. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp I believe buyers deserve beter. I sell  within the seller code. Do you? https://thesellercode.org  

1h 8m
Jan 29, 2024
Pat Boucousis: Sell Clean, Sell Smart, Sell Consciously

Join us today as Patrick Boucousis shares his insights on "clean selling." For decades, Patrick dominated sales floors using both grit and smarts. Today, Pat and I are dedicated to reforming the sales profession through #TheSellerCode https://thesellercode.org/. Patrick will explain how "clean selling" makes customers the top priority. It demands truly understanding buyers rather than rushing deals. Active listening and empathy replace hard sells and tricks. The focus shifts to helping buyers succeed - not just hitting targets. You'll hear gripping tales from the field. One rookie thought sales meant persuasion until practicing clean techniques. Through helpful conversations, not pressure, he built trust and surprisingly landed a huge deal. Marcus challenges Patrick on whether sales cycles still work for customer-first methods. Patrick argues intuition and emotional IQ now matter more in guiding relationships. Clean sellers set their own pace by building bonds, not boxing customers in. Plus, get Patrick's insider advice on developing self-awareness. Most sellers lack insight but it's key to growth. Learn his tips for gaining perspective through feedback and thoughtful questions for buyers and oneself. By show's end, you'll understand clean selling as both an ethical philosophy and sales strategy with heart. Patrick aims to upend traditional tactics that ignore customers' humanity. Tune in for an revealing chat! Contact Pat via linkedin.com/in/value-selling-coach https://www.linkedin.com/in/value-selling-coach Websites __ salesroad.com  http://www.salesroad.com/(SalesRoad B2B CRM) thesalesnatural.com  http://www.thesalesnatural.com/(Sales Training) __ Phone: +61414387825 (Mobile) Email: pboucousis@traxor.com Sign up to the Seller Code: https://thesellercode.org/ ** Are you ready to transform your sales practice? To align your career with your deeper purpose? To unlock your highest potential through principled selling? Take my sales aptitude audit to learn something you don't know about yourself, discover how you can improve your performance forever within 30 days and WHY you are triggering your buyer's brain to resist: https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp  

59m
Jan 25, 2024
Gabe Lullo: From Blindspots to Breakthrough - Unleashing Your Total Talent

In this packed episode of TheInquisitor Podcast, Gabe Lullo, CEO of GabeLullo.com, spills the beans on the secrets to building and optimising a successful sales development function. With his wealth of experience in the industry, Gabe dives deep into the blind spots that hinder sales success and shares practical solutions to overcome them. As you listen, get ready to revolutionise your sales strategy with Gabe's expert insights. __ __ Prepare to shift your thinking as we challenge the boundaries of what you believe is possible. Get ready for a journey into the possible as Gabe shares his expertise, uncovering your blind spots, and providing practical solutions to transform your sales strategy. What can you do to revolutionise your approach and unlock your peoples' true potential? Tune in now to find out. Contact Gabe via https://linkedin.com/in/lullo  Website: https://Alleyoop.io  (Personal) Phone: +1 716-713-7117 (Mobile) -- I’m going to work with a handful of private clients one-on-one in the new year. Would you like to work with me? Take my selling strategy audit https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp and then grab 30 minutes in my diary to learn something you don't yet know about yourself. No pressure. If you want more, at the end of my "audition" with you, it'll be your turn to convince me why I should offer you one of handful of spots I'm making available for new clients. That seems the fairest way for us to assess if we're a good fit. What do you reckon?

55m
Dec 27, 2023
Joy: How to Prevent Burnout and Maximise Performance Through Service with Irina Musteata

Marcus sits down with customer success expert and high performance coach Irina Musteata to discuss how to sustain top performance in your career while still maintaining joy and balance in your life. Irina knows firsthand the challenges of juggling a demanding job with the demands of running her own coaching business. In this conversation, she shares insights on: __ The blindspots that prevent people from realising joy is a key component of success, not just a "nice to have" Frequently unasked questions people should be asking themselves and their teams about how to work smarter, not just harder Metrics and decisions at the top that can unintentionally create problems downstream in customer success Storytelling to help prospects imagine how your solution can transform their future Subtle ways leaders can bring more fun and meaning to people's daily work __ Tune in to hear their unconventional yet practical advice on achieving high performance without burning out or losing your passion along the way. This show is guaranteed to give you a fresh perspective on maximising your impact and enjoyment at work. Contact Irina via linkedin.com/in/irina-musteata-710b3422 https://www.linkedin.com/in/irina-musteata-710b3422 Website: irinamusteata.com  http://www.irinamusteata.com/(High Performance Coaching) Email: contact@irinamusteata.com ** I’m going to work with a handful of private clients one-on-one in the new year. Would you like to work with me? Take my selling strategy audit https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp and then grab 30 minutes in my diary to learn something you don't yet know about yourself. No pressure. If you want more, at the end of "auditioning" me, it'll be your turn to convince me why you we are good fit for each other. I only have a handful of spots I'm making available for new clients. That seems a fair way for us to assess if we're a good fit. What do you reckon? Drop me a line when you're ready.

1h 13m
Dec 25, 2023
Are These 3 ”Obvious” Blindspots Holding Back Your Business? - Thomas Goubau

Thomas Goubau Facing HR Hard Truths Thomas learned the hard way about outsourcing HR strategy. As his startup scaled, a "spaghetti network" of disconnected tools emerged without strategic oversight. He shares how Q7's People Model Canvas fixes this by bringing objectivity to difficult conversations about people. 3 Blindspots Hidden in Plain Sight Many leaders miss subtle but important distinctions. Thomas reveals how assuming all roles are the same leads to misaligned processes. Plus, why focusing only on performance instead of cultivating skills dooms companies to irrelevance. Rituals: The Secret to Alignment Consistency creates predictability, but many flounder without it. Thomas shows how quarterly offsites, weekly standups and 1:1 coaching sessions turn managers into the "glue that sticks organizations together." Leaders Adrift Without Clarity Ambiguity is confusing and leads to mismatched expectations, disappointment, failure to perform against unclear expectations lead to confusion, politics and underperformance. Executives must define direction to empower decision-making where it belongs, with the person closest to the action. Thomas explains how clarity of vision allows people to execute - and adjust course later if needed. Get Back to Basics HR complexity distracts from fundamentals. Thomas stresses the importance of compensation fairness, engagement and developing skills before building culture. A few well-executed routines can transform an organisation. Parting Wisdom: Keep it Simple...and Sharp Thomas distills leadership lessons into a single maxim: Focus on clarity, competence and empowerment over bureaucracy. Don't overthink HR - with the right framework, growth handles itself. Contact Thomas linkedin.com/in/thomasgoubau https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasgoubau Website: scale-up.q7leader.com/  https://scale-up.q7leader.com/(Personal) Twitter:thomasgoubau https://twitter.com/thomasgoubau Email: thomas@q7leader.com ** I’m going to work with a handful of private clients one-on-one in the new year. Would you like to work with me? Take my selling strategy audit https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp and then grab 30 minutes in my diary to learn something you don't yet know about yourself. No pressure. If you want more, at the end of my "audition" with you, it'll be your turn to convince me why I should offer you one of handful of spots I'm making available for new clients. That seems the fairest way for us to assess if we're a good fit. What do you reckon?

58m
Dec 23, 2023
Ryan Staley: Applying AI to Achieve Ridiculous Results with Limited Resources

Ryan Staley, Founder and CEO of Will Boss says, "I grew from zero to 30 million with a team of four and five and a half years with no marketing or sales." Ryan __ __ Key Insights: __ __ Takeaways for leaders: __ __ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanstaley/ Podcast: The Scale Up Show Email: ryan@willboss.com Grab 9 Free Sales AI Resources Just for Saying Maybe: https://www.aiforrevenue.com/sale-ai-accelerator-home -- I’m going to work with a handful of private clients one-on-one in the new year. Would you like to work with me? https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp    

49m
Dec 20, 2023
Usman Sheikh: Leveraging AI and Behavioral Science to Transform Sales Performance

My guest is Usman Sheikh, CEO of XIQ __ __ Key insights: __ __ Takeaways for leaders: __ __ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/usmanmsheikh/ Twitter: @usmansheikh_ Email: usman@xiq.ai Website: www.xiq.ai http://www.xiq.ai/ -- How can you start making your boldest ambitions a reality beginning today? Take my selling strategy audit and grab up to 30-minutes with me for free. No charge. No pressure. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp You'll learn something about yourself you don't know, how you are getting between your buyers and their decision to buy from you.

1h 13m
Dec 18, 2023
Vlad Blagojevic: Is Your ’GTM Process’ Actually Sabotaging Your Success?

Every post I've come across by Vlad Blagojevic for the past couple of years since stumbled across his content has been on the money. He is a long overdue guest and you won't be sorry you listened a few times and took notes. Vlad is the co-founder of FullFunnel, which helps B2B companies implement account-based marketing strategies. He has built a large, loyal and appreciative audience on LinkedIn sharing practical advice on topics like understanding buyers, content marketing, and challenging traditional sales assumptions. Key discussion points: __ Rethinking traditional sales/marketing approaches __ __ Prioritising high-fit accounts __ __ Standing out amid noise on LinkedIn __ __ Downstream impacts of poor lead generation __ __ Unethical practices in sales/business __ __ __ Contact Vlad: To learn more about Vlad's work helping companies implement customer-centric strategies, check out fullfunnel.io or connect with him on LinkedIn. Website: fullfunnel.io LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vladblagojevic *** Want 30 minutes of my coaching free? Take my audit and I'll coach you. No charge. No pressure. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp   Just honest insights to improve in 30 days.   Want more? Ask about paid coaching because I won't sell it to you! We'll go deep. We focus on what matters and let go of what doesn't.   Are you making sacrifices you don't want? Wrong reasons? What do you want from your career? What matters most? Is something missing? Let's discuss. Take the audit now. Book a free consult. Start the journey today. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp

52m
Dec 13, 2023
Andrew Barry: Utilising a 250,000 Year Old Skill Every Human Being Responds To

In this episode of TheInquisitor Podcast, sales expert Andrew Barry takes the stage to share his invaluable insights on navigating the ever-changing landscape of sales. Prepare to be inspired as Andrew discusses the need for creativity, innovation, and emotional intelligence in the face of volatility. He sheds light on blind spots in sales, the power of storytelling, and the importance of building trust and human connection with customers. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that will revolutionize your approach to sales. __ __ Tune in to TheInquisitor Podcast as Andrew Barry shares his game-changing strategies and expert advice. Prepare to challenge your beliefs, overcome blind spots, and harness the power of storytelling. By the end of this episode, you'll have a fresh perspective on the tools to build trust, connect deeply with clients, and thrive in the face of uncertainty. Listen now and unleash your inner bard! Contact Andrew via linkedin.com/in/realandrewbarry https://www.linkedin.com/in/realandrewbarry   Websites __ __ Phone: +1 347-915-4667 (Work) Twitter: Bazzaruto https://twitter.com/Bazzaruto -- Get 30 minutes of my coaching free. Take my audit and I'll coach you. No charge. No pressure. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Just honest insights to improve in 30 days. Want more? Ask about paid coaching. We'll go deep. I'm selective. I push for what matters, not distractions. Are you making sacrifices you don't want? Wrong reasons? What do you want from your career? What matters most? Is something missing? Let's discuss. Take the audit now. Book a free consult. Start the journey today. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp

57m
Dec 13, 2023
Jay Weiser: Unleash Your Leadership Superpowers to Thrive in Volatile Times

In this episode of TheInquisitor podcast, join host Marcus Cauchi as he dives into the world of leadership with special guest Jay Weiser. Jay, a renowned consultant, shares his expertise in helping leaders thrive in the face of disruption and uncertainty. Get ready to uncover the blind spots that hold leaders back and learn how to unleash your leadership superpowers. Here are 5 points of interest from the episode: __ __ Before listening, ask yourself: Are you aware of your blind spots and their impact on your leadership? Are you stuck in firefighting mode, unable to think about the future? Do you have a clear definition of success and is it aligned with your team's? Join Jay Weiser and Marcus Kalki as they challenge your thinking and empower you to embrace your leadership potential. After listening, be prepared to shift your perspective, take ownership of your agency, and unlock new possibilities for success.   Contact Jay via linkedin.com/in/jayrweiser https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayrweiser Websites: __ __ Email: jay@jayweiser.com Twitter: Jay_R_Weiser https://twitter.com/Jay_R_Weiser -- Struggling? Can't work out why your training and experience aren't delivering the results you need? Take my selling strategy audit and claim 30 minutes with me debriefing you on the implications of your results and how you can take control and improve within 30 days. Learn something you didn't understand about yourself and start on a journey of permanent improvement. I will not sell you coaching. you can ask about working with me but you are going to have ask, I don't push. I want volunteers not hostages. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Learn how the top 4% sell whatever the market conditions, competitive landscape and close excellent deals at premium prices that customers love.

1h 11m
Dec 11, 2023
Mike Maynard: Challenging the Status Quo: Reimagining Marketing Strategies for Business Growth

In this captivating episode of TheInquisitor Podcast Interview, join host Marcus Cauchi as he sits down with renowned marketing expert Mike Maynard to delve into the world of B2B marketing. Uncovering the blind spots and debunking common misconceptions, they explore the true essence of effective marketing strategies. Get ready to shift your perspective and rethink what's possible in the realm of business growth. In this thought-provoking conversation, Mike Maynard and Marcus Cauchi tackle five meaty points of interest. They discuss the importance of focusing on outcomes rather than the amount of hard work put into a project. They challenge accepted marketing opinions and emphasize the need for tailored approaches that consider individual markets and audiences. They also shed light on the power of testing and encourage marketers to explore new avenues for lead generation. Plus, they highlight the significance of aligning marketing goals with overall business objectives. Before you hit play, take a moment to ponder these powerful questions: How well do you truly understand the blind spots in your marketing strategies? Are you too focused on the work itself rather than the desired outcomes? Are you open to testing and exploring new approaches to generate leads? Prepare to challenge your beliefs and expand your horizons as Mike Maynard and Marcus Cauchi provide eye-opening insights into the world of B2B marketing. After listening, you'll be equipped with fresh perspectives and empowered to revolutionize your own marketing efforts. Contact Mike on linkedin.com/in/mikemaynard https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemaynard Website: NapierB2B.com  http://www.napierb2b.com/(Company) Twitter: Mike_Maynard https://twitter.com/Mike_Maynard -- Do you want to raise your performance and experience permanent improvements in the next 30 days? https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Complete my selling strategy audit to see how you compare with the world's top 4% performers and how you can move the needle to the right to perform more like them. No pressure. Free 30 minute consult. You'll have to ask me if you want more coaching. I won't sell it to you. You will ask for help if and when you're ready and you don't need any pressure from me to know if you need my help.

46m
Dec 06, 2023
Ian Campbell: Why Buyers Really Buy and Uncovering What They Truly Value

In this captivating episode of The Inquisitor Podcast, join CEO of Nucleus Research, Ian Campbell, as he delves into the world of creating value and unlocking its true potential. From mastering the art of persuasion to maximising return on investment, Ian shares invaluable insights and techniques that will transform your approach to sales. Get ready to shift your perspective and discover what's truly possible! Key Points of Interest: __ __ Listen to this episode to challenge your beliefs, expand your boundaries, and tap into the limitless potential of value creation. Prepare to be inspired and empowered to take your sales game to new heights. Powerful Questions to Shift Your Thinking: __ __ Listen to this thought-provoking episode now and experience a paradigm shift in your sales strategy. -- Get 30 minutes of my coaching free. Take my audit and I'll coach you. No charge. No pressure. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Just honest insights to improve in 30 days. Want more? Ask about paid coaching. We'll go deep. I'm selective. I push for what matters, not distractions. Are you making sacrifices you don't want? Wrong reasons? What do you want from your career? What matters most? Is something missing? Let's discuss. Take the audit now. Book a free consult. Start the journey today. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp

1h 8m
Dec 04, 2023
Andy Cunningham: Messaging Lessons From Silicon Valley and My Time with Steve Jobs

In this captivating episode of The Inquisitor Podcast, join Marcus Cauchi as he delves into the fascinating career path of Andy Cunningham, a positioning and branding expert who had the incredible opportunity to work alongside the legendary Steve Jobs. Discover how Andy's journey led her from Silicon Valley to collaborating with one of the most influential figures in the tech industry. Gain insights into her role in launching the Macintosh and the profound impact it had on her expertise in positioning and branding. Get ready to be inspired by Andy's remarkable career journey and learn how her experiences with Steve Jobs shaped her approach to business and innovation. Key Points of Interest: __ __ Discover how Andy's collaboration with Steve Jobs and her expertise in positioning and branding have paved the way for her unique approach to coaching. Andy coaches me through rebranding, repositioning, and realising my message. Andy guides me through a process for developing a strong message architecture. Tune in now to unlock the secrets of creating a compelling brand message and witness the power of message architecture coaching in revolutionizing your marketing strategy. Prepare to shift your thinking and discover what's truly possible for your business. Are you ready to elevate your brand to new heights? Contact Andy via linkedin.com/in/andreacunningham https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreacunningham Websites __ __ Twitter: andycunningham4 https://twitter.com/andycunningham4 -- Get 30 minutes of my coaching free. Take my audit and I'll coach you. No charge. No pressure. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Just honest insights to improve in 30 days. Want more? Ask about paid coaching. We'll go deep. I'm selective. I push for what matters, not distractions. Are you making sacrifices you don't want? Wrong reasons? What do you want from your career? What matters most? Is something missing? Let's discuss. Take the audit now. Book a free consult. Start the journey today. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp

55m
Dec 03, 2023
Remembering the Pirates of SIlicon Valley

Coming tomorrow is the epic show with Andy Cunningham. Have a listen to her history in Silicon Valley and how she got to do what she does today. The full show explores her journey and then takes me on a marketing adventure. Applying decades at the bleeding edge of technology marketing, Andy has developed an incredibly powerful message architecture framework. She takes me through a very quick version to demonstrate the process.  I've found this incredibly helpful in my recent efforts to rebrand and reposition my messaging to have more focused appeal to a narrower ICP. Watch this space ... -- Get 30 minutes of my coaching free. Take my audit and I'll coach you. No charge. No pressure. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Just honest insights to improve in 30 days. Want more? Ask about paid coaching. We'll go deep. I'm selective. I push for what matters, not distractions. Are you making sacrifices you don't want? Wrong reasons? What do you want from your career? What matters most? Is something missing? Let's discuss. Take the audit now. Book a free consult. Start the journey today. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp  

1m
Dec 02, 2023
Prof Ben Guttman: Simplicity is the Ultimate Sophistication: Embrace Minimalism and Unleash Your True Brilliance

Discover how simplicity can be the key to unlocking your inner sophistication and brilliance. In this episode of TheInquisitor Podcast, join Marcus Cauchi as he interviews Ben Guttmann, a marketing executive and professor at Baruch College. They dive into the topic of clear communication and its importance in messaging and design. Ben shares insights from his book, "Simply Put: Why Clear Communication Matters and How to Achieve It," where he outlines five principles: __ __ Do you waffle? Is your communication confusing? The meaning of your communication means nothing if the other person cannot receive it or understand it. YOU are responsible for making sure your message is fit for purpose.   - - If you want to raise your performance to the role you are in or prepare for your next role, take a few minutes to complete this Selling Strategy Audit, then book your free 30 minute consult with me. If YOU want to talk about working with as your coach we can discuss that but I won't be selling you coaching. You'll learn something you didn't know about yourself, something you can act on and improve within 30 days and how you affect your buyer's perception of risk and how they perceive you - you know the stalls you can't explain - the buyers who ghost you - deals that drift. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Happy selling.  

48m
Dec 02, 2023
Dan Pfister: Winbacks Deliver 200% Higher LTV, 5x Win Rate

Dan Pfister says "When you winback a customer, their lifetime value more than doubles." Dan is my guest on ep.508 of #TheInquisitor podcast __ Higher ROI due to significantly lower marketing and sales costs required. This improves overall profitability. More predictable and stable revenue stream from reactivating known customers versus unpredictable new prospects. Increased customer retention and lifetime value as #winbacks are more likely to reorder than one-time buyers. This cultivates a more durable customer base over time. Ability to highly target winback campaigns using past customer data and insights, improving conversion rates versus unfocused prospecting. Lower risk profile since value has already been proven with past customers, unlike acquiring unknown prospects. __ Contact Dan via linkedin.com/in/danmpfister https://www.linkedin.com/in/danmpfister Website: winbacklabs.com  https://winbacklabs.com/(Company) Email: dan@winbacklabs.com -- Looking to gain an outside perspective on your sales approach? Take my quick 10-minute Sales Strategy Audit to receive personalised insights and recommendations. You can grab a free 30 minutes in my calendar for a detailed debrief once you complete it. I'll give you my analysis and we'll look at the unintended effects of your current sales strategies through an unbiased lens. You'll discover new opportunities and blindspots. __ __ https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp.   

55m
Nov 23, 2023
Dr Raymona Lawrence: A Conversation About Diversity, Profitability and Leadership

Leaders, listen up! An inclusive culture is your shortcut to success. Nothing fluffy about it, but it does mean you're going to want become OK with difference because of the incomparable value delivered by teams of diverse thinkers with range, and breadth of life experience. Your job and the job of your managers will be harder to begin with as you adapt. When you surrender to the idea that the right mix of people looking at a problem, working on projects, selling, buying, running operations, leading and managing works so much better if your team can think AS your customer. A fraction are genuinely aligned around the customer and the outcomes they intend to rent. Fewer still play nicely with others to ensure the customer gets the best possible outcome and their risk is reduced to zero or as close to. A smaller fraction would be willing to recommend a competitor if it was better for the customer. And their leadership will probably not be happy if the experience of my clients is anything to go by! But the results are well worth it ... Too many companies leave talent and treasure on the table by ignoring diversity. Just like top teams scout far and wide for recruits, you need all hands on deck to win consistently, repeatedly, predictably in today's uncertain, fast paced, ultra competitive market. A diverse team often sees what a homogenous group misses - they connect with a wider customer base and bring in more revenue - but the best thing is they catch the negative consequences one department's success inflict elsewhere in the value chain. This can give you back 1-4 days PER MANAGER and PER SALESPERSON per week. How? Listen to Raymona and me discuss: __ __ The business case for diversity is a no-brainer, but most pay lip service to it or miss it entirely by confusing a better future for everyone with political squabbling. Forget labels, focus on our shared humanity. Make understanding each other a priority. Diverse perspectives lead to better decisions and more innovation - talents you can't afford to leave on the bench! For those facing glass ceilings, developing self-awareness is your game-changer. Know thyself and seek out of uncomfortable but important conversations to strengthen crucial skills. Emphasise common goals over perceived differences. With the right coaching, middle managers can remove  barriers facing most of their peers in the competition.  In today's marketplace, diversity dictates your fate. Will you be victims of your own blindspots or victors with vision? The choice is yours - but choosing inclusion unlocks unlimited potential for your people and profits. The winning team has a place for everyone's talents. Will you build one? Connect with Raymona via linkedin.com/in/drraymonahlawrence https://www.linkedin.com/in/drraymonahlawrence. -- If you'd like to learn what you can do to improve your results in the next 30 days __ __ Click here https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp to complete the Sales Gap Audit. If you want the detailed report and some cold hard truths we need to talk it through so you don't misinterpret what it tells you No charge, 30 minutes. Obviously, I make my living through coaching so it'll come up once. If you want to talk about working with me as your coach, that's your call. I won't pressure you. If you ask me, I'll happily discuss it. We'll spend the last 5-10 minutes discussing next steps - what you can do on your own, and what's possible with my help. Then you can decide "No thanks", "Not now" (I will ask what needs to change or happen for us to reengage and when to avoid hope, assumption or guessing), or "Yes" please and we discuss what you would consider an excellent win within 30 days of us starting to work together for our trial engagement of 3 sessions (£1500+VAT if applicable). And you can say no at any time if you don't think we're a good fit. I'll do the same so as not to waste either your time or mine. Is that reasonable? Sales Gap Audit - https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp

1h 10m
Nov 15, 2023
Al McBride: Why Good Negotiation Rarely Happens At The End of the Sale?

Listen to #negotiationcoach Al McBride on ep 503 of #TheInquisitorPodcast with Marcus Cauchi. Join Al and Marcus as their fascinating discussion finds connections between hard-earned lessons. Al shares how dealing art taught him the power of emotion in sales and the quirky characters that schooled him. "Sell hope, not objects," one eccentric advised. Building on decades of experience, Al explains how truly internalizing your value is key to confidently assuaging customers' every concern. "If they sense doubt in your pitch, the deal is doomed," he explains. Listen closely as Marcus draws out priceless insights, like how to make prospects feel fully understood without coming off as disingenuous. Hear Al's best practices for establishing trust and meeting both sides' needs from the start. Discover how to understand your counterpart fully so cooperation can create value for all. As one client said, "With Al's help, agreements feel effortless - he has a gift for joint problem-solving." Absorb Al's wisdom on keeping discussions solution-focused, not positional or simply transactional. Learn to see beyond initial demands to hidden interests, find value that transcends cost, unlocking innovative options where compromise is unnecessary. He trusts that serving mutual interests consistently creates common ground and dry land upon which to build bridges for the long-term. Contact Al via linkedin.com/in/alistairmcbride https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistairmcbride Websites: __ __ Email: al@almcbride.com Twitter: AlMcBride https://twitter.com/AlMcBride -- If you want to grab time in my calendar for a coaching call complete the Selling Aptitude Test. You'll probably learn something you didn't know about yourself and at least one way you can improve your performance in the next 30 days. https://mailchi.mp/laughs-last.com/satp Happy selling!

1h 8m
Nov 07, 2023
The AI Wild West: Can Laws and Ethics Tame the Frontier? with Mark Consigli

Mark Consigli is a coprorate lawyer with decades of experience and a particular interest in the Law and AI. Listen to the implications and opportunities presented by this fab new tech we don't understand! This isn't our first rodeo with potentially dangerous new tech. The printing press, industrial revolution - all sparked alarm about instruments that might unbridle an underclass. But stifling innovation is rarely the wisest solution. Curbing AI may numb humanity's progress - which ethically speaking, seems questionable. Still, some control is prudent. Without reins, AI could become a raging bull bearing down on civilisation. Regulations should focus on nefarious applications, not neutering the tech itself. If you've used AI of late and ask it anything that might offend, you will have a hell of a time getting the answers you want if it triggers the "I'm offended" switch. I write to offend, challenge, provoke and it's a pain in the ask not questions! Banning deepfakes? Reasonable. Demanding open-source models? Dodgy. Transparency welcomingly weeds out biases. Opaqueness rightly raises eyebrows. But a model's IP has pecuniary value. Are transparency demands ethical? Are the LLM creators ripping off creators? Give people agency over data-privacy, sure. But don't be daft - zero risk means zero innovation. Trial and error is innovation's bosom buddy. Any of you Web 3.0 or crypto folks got anythng to say about this? Education counteracts blind AI faith. Remember - garbage in, garbage out. AI isn't a soothsaying sage - it's a data-crunching calculator. A very obedient 8 year old who does what you tell it. If you responses aren't good THAT's ON YOU and your terrible questions! Involve all stakeholders when hatching regulations - technocrats, academics, ethicists, lawmakers. Deliberately balance. Reactiveness is reasoning's Achilles heel. Uphold ethics and principles, don't throttle progress. Freedom of expression needn't foster mayhem. This is a technical tightrope, not a legislative see-saw. Walk wisely. AI could either augur our ascent or trigger our downfall. The choice is ours. Choose judiciously. And wait for Quantum and Ai to go together! BOOOM! Contact Mark via linkedin.com/in/mark-consigli https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-consigli Website: calendly.com/mark_consigli/30min  https://calendly.com/mark_consigli/30min(Company) Twitter: ConsigliMark https://twitter.com/ConsigliMark -- Are you curious to learn whether your strengths are your strengths and how you stack up? For 4 listeners who take the NEW Sales Aptitude Test https://bit.ly/NewSellingAptitudeTest, you will get a chance to guest on the show on 31 October for our Hallowe'en Raise Your Dead Deal Fest 2023. Click now to secure your spot on the show.

51m
Oct 26, 2023
Are You Committing Marketing Malpractice? Diagnose the Problem and Discover the Cure with Aaron Hassen

Ep. 501: Today's Big Idea is  ... Effective, sustainable marketing requires strategic thinking, customer focus, and adapting to changing contexts. Marketers should align with sales, build trust, and provide timely, relevant value. No shit Sherlock ... but how many of you are doing anything even resembling what Aaron talks about. Aaron Hassen has been at the sharp end of marketing for the past 19 years since he left the military. He advocates taking the hard path: Align your marketing strategy tightly with sales to deliver an exceptional unified customer experience. Listen intently to identify your own blindspots. Perhaps an over-reliance on metrics versus strategy or you have a feature you love so much you have to tell them about it, even if it means talking your way out of the sale? Aaron reminds you that buyers change, their stage in their business lifecycle differs and unless you adapt, you will become irrelevant and be dropped. Embrace new contexts and buyer behaviours. Imagine the customer's emotional perspective. Nurture personal branding and networks to boost leadership. Engage frontline staff for insights. Determine the brand purpose that resonates emotionally. Diagnose the problems to address through organisational alignment. We dig into these blindspots: __ __ Contact Aaron on LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/aaronhassen https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronhassen Websites __ __ Twitter __ __ ---------------------------- Are you curious to learn whether your strengths are your strengths and how you stack up? For 4 listeners who take the NEW Sales Aptitude Test https://us2.list-manage.com/survey?u=e8a8ee73340bb327841ef9831&id=9d06cf9a16&attribution=false, you will get a chance to guest on the show on Hallowe'en 2023. Click now. 

58m
Oct 24, 2023
Ep 500: Ask, Listen, Outclass your Competition - a Masterclass in Empathic Questioning

Ep 500:A Question of Ask, Listen, Outclass Your Competition. Ep 500: The Art of Asking Questions - A Masterclass in Curiosity  In this special 500th episode, Marcus Cauchi shares his a few of his best insights and techniques for asking powerful questions. Through coaching real sellers and founders live, he demonstrates how carefully crafted questions can uncover obstacles, open minds, and drive conversations forward.   What You'll Learn From This Episode - Observe how Marcus listens intently and focuses on understanding the other person's real problem before jumping to solutions.  - Notice how he peels back layers of confusion by asking simple but thoughtful follow-up questions.  - See how he builds trust and credibility by not applying pressure or giving unsolicited advice. - Learn several of Marcus' frameworks for crafting open-ended, imaginative questions that provoke creative thinking. - Discover how patience and curiosity are key to guiding people to their own breakthroughs and decisions. "I've carried my sales team's quota the last 2 months by applying tactics I learned from this podcast. I recently closed two of my biggest deals ever ($400k and $300k) thanks to insights from The Inquisitor." Ed, Account Executive, Fintech, Mid-Market Sales Thank You! Thank you to you, our loyal listener for supporting the growth of #TheInquisitor over 500 episodes and rapidly over 180,000 downloads! Suzanne and I ask a favour, that you share this episode with others who could benefit from improving their questioning skills. And please give the show a review, good or bad, witty or serious. We depend on you sharing the show. We don't charge, we don't carry advertising - please support us by telling others. And talking to us about what you learn, what you want to learn. This is a great adventure we share - have your say and tell us what you need, how we can make the show even better, more useful. And recommend great guests, please. Also check out Marcus' coaching for more in-depth learning on powerful strategies to immediately improve your sales conversations and remove friction from your buyer's decision to buy from you. P.S. Want to know something about yourself and your selling that you don't know now? Complete the new and vastly improved Modern Selling Aptitude Test v3.0 - Click here to get your SATv3.0: https://us2.list-manage.com/survey?u=e8a8ee73340bb327841ef9831&id=9d06cf9a16&attribution=false Book a free 30 minute results review and I will share your #BuyerSafetyScore and your #PipelineCertaintyScore, and help you pinpoint one obstacle over which you have control that is holding you back.

1h 17m
Oct 16, 2023
Unleashing the Power of Mental Toughness with Anthony Taylor

Discover the transformative potential of mental toughness in leadership and team building. Tune in to his insightful podcast with Anthony Taylor, a recognised expert in mental toughness and author, to delve into the art of cultivating resilient leaders and high-performing teams. Understand the power of mental toughness, the balance of sensitivity and toughness, and the tools to build mental fitness. Dive deep into the world of empathetic leadership, mental fitness, and innovative recruitment strategies. Take your leadership skills to the next level and meet the challenges of the modern work environment head-on. Ready to start your journey? [Book a coaching session with Marcus](https://calendly.com/marcuscauchi). Mental toughness is more than just a buzzword; it's a critical personality trait that dictates how we respond to stress, pressure, and challenges. It's not about being macho; it's about the power of the mind. This podcast will guide you through the complexity of mental toughness, its benefits, and its impact on performance. The MTQ+ test offers a glimpse into people's mental responses in varying situations, can be an invaluable tool in recruitment, leadership development, and team building. Cultivating mental fitness requires understanding one's mental toughness profile, developing emotional intelligence, and fostering good mental health through exercise, healthy eating, and volunteering. Being a good leader is not about controlling but about influencing others with praise, empowerment, and delegation. Remember, setbacks should not affect one's self-concept or self-worth. Instead, they should be seen as opportunities for growth and learning. Contact Anthony via LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/ant-taylor-mentaltoughness https://www.linkedin.com/in/ant-taylor-mentaltoughness?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B0LVGVjInRl6pnJf3dXe5kg%3D%3D Mobile 07771 892479 Web www.threefifty9.com http://www.threefifty9.com  Email anthony@threefifty9.com Twitter: AntTaylor72 -- Ready to transform your leadership skills and create high-performing teams that thrive in the face of pressure? [Book your coaching session with Marcus Cauchi today](https://calendly.com/marcuscauchi).

56m
Aug 02, 2023