The exponential skill that matters in building your business isn't what you think. It's not your expertise, sales tactics, or marketing funnels.

It's your ability to build genuine relationships that last.

In this raw conversation between Joe Blackburn and Jason Croft, they break down why mastering PILLRs™ - Joe's term for strategic relationship building - is the foundation for sustainable success.

Joe shares his journey from corporate America to building a thriving coaching business from his basement, all through the power of authentic connections. He explains how he now only works with people he genuinely likes, does what he wants, when he wants - the true definition of wealth.

Jason brings his perspective on why we often overcomplicate business growth, searching for complex solutions when the answer is right in front of us: meaningful human connection.

Key insights:

- Why processes and systems mean nothing without strong relationships (but you still need systems!)

- How to build a network that markets for you

- The freedom that comes from working only with people you click with

- Why this skill is portable across any industry or role

- The real reason clients pay for your services (hint: it's not what you think)

This episode is a wake-up call for professionals tired of chasing tactics and ready to build lasting success through genuine relationships.

Whether you're an advisor, coach, or service provider, Joe and Jason's practical wisdom will transform how you think about business growth.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/10

Elite business owners pay six figures to learn what you're about to hear for free.

Most business meetings drain your soul. But in Scottsdale, Arizona, something different happened.

Joe Blackburn and Jason Croft take us behind the scenes of an exclusive mastermind where high-performing business owners gather every four months to level up their game.

This isn't your typical corporate networking event with boring power points and forced small talk.

Joe reveals how he structures these gatherings to build real connections: Starting with poolside drinks, followed by bacon-filled breakfasts (apparently the best bacon of his life), and plenty of "Stand and Deliver" opportunities.

But the magic happens between these moments.

The group uses a principle called "The Mustard Rule" - if someone has mustard on their face, you tell them. It's not kind to stay quiet. This creates an environment where hard truths are shared, blind spots are spotted, and real growth happens.

Jason expertly pulls out insights about why even successful business owners need this kind of support. He highlights how progress often feels incremental day-to-day, until you look back and realize how far you've come.

Key takeaways:

- Why going back to basics often beats chasing new strategies

- How to create trust in business groups

- The power of mixing different industries in one room

- Why focusing on family is crucial for sustainable success

The episode ends with plans for 2025, including a new program called Lion Cubs - teaching business principles to the next generation.

This conversation gives a rare glimpse into how top performers think, grow, and support each other in ways most people never see.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/9

The holidays aren't your signal to slow down - they're your chance to pull ahead while everyone else takes their foot off the gas.

In this episode of Sales Assassins, Joe Blackburn and Jason Croft break down why November and December are actually prime time for relationship building and setting up massive wins for the new year.

Joe shares his proven holiday game plan that turns standard seasonal networking into real business opportunities. His approach? Pure gratitude and strategic generosity.

Key takeaways:

- Why waiting until January to restart your momentum will cost you until March

- The exact framework for picking your "Focus Five" relationships to nurture

- How to turn holiday parties from awkward mingling into real connections

- Smart ways to get in front of your clients' entire family during the season

- The "Mayor Strategy" that makes you the most visible person in your market

Most business owners use the holidays as their excuse to coast. Top performers use them as their advantage.

Between charity events, social gatherings, and natural opportunities to show gratitude, the next 60 days are filled with chances to strengthen your network while your competition hibernates.

Jason pulls out practical tips through targeted questions, while Joe provides the strategic framework and mindset shifts needed to maximize the season.

This isn't about aggressive selling during the holidays. It's about authentic relationship building when people are most open to connecting.

Want to crush Q1? The work starts now. Listen to learn exactly how to make it happen.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/8

The difference between average and extraordinary isn't talent - it's knowing how much gas is left in your tank.

Joe Blackburn opens up about the raw reality of running multiple businesses while his wife was on bed rest with twins, dealing with NICU stays, and managing heart monitors that sound like police sirens - all while being evaluated for a leadership position.

But this isn't a story about hardship.

It's about the lie we tell ourselves when we think we're at our limit.

Through a candid conversation with Jason Croft, Joe breaks down:

• Why comparing problems is pointless - your current challenge is always your Mt. Everest

• The myth of work-life balance vs. the truth about impactful moments

• How crisis builds capacity - and why that's actually good news

• The real reason most people tap out too early

• Why society's obsession with hours worked is destroying potential

Jason brings practical wisdom to the discussion, highlighting how presence overrides time when it comes to family.

Key takeaway: Your gas tank is like an iceberg - 90% lies beneath what you think is empty.

The episode wraps with actionable mental frameworks for pushing through when everything screams stop, including Joe's personal mantra that got him through 2 am chaos with twins, cancer scares, and business scaling.

This episode is for professionals ready to stop underestimating their capacity and start operating at their true potential.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/7

Your inner voice is sabotaging your success. But it doesn't have to.

In this episode of Sales Assassins, Joe Blackburn and Jason Croft reveal how to silence your inner critic and unlock your true potential.

Joe shares his personal journey of breaking through mental barriers, from his days going door-to-door to running a high-ticket mastermind. He explains how a simple mindset shift - "just add a zero" - transformed his sales approach and skyrocketed his income.

Jason digs deeper, exploring how our environment shapes our limitations. They discuss the power of surrounding yourself with big thinkers and the importance of regularly visualizing your ideal future.

Key insights:

• Why most people are constrained by artificial limits

• The psychology behind self-imposed ceilings (and how to break them)

• How to use "stretch goals" to expand your vision

• The critical importance of consistency in mindset work

• Why writing down your goals is scientifically proven to increase success

Joe introduces two powerful exercises: creating a 10-year dream and writing your own obituary. These tools force you to think bigger and hold yourself to a higher standard.

The hosts emphasize that greatness is rarely achieved alone. Even top performers need outside perspective and coaching to reach new levels.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to break through to the next level, this episode provides actionable strategies to dream bigger, silence your inner critic, and achieve more than you ever thought possible.

Don't let your inner litigator hold you back. It's time to find out how big you can truly be.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/6

Are you too available?

In this eye-opening episode of Sales Assassins, hosts Joe Blackburn and Jason Croft tackle the often-overlooked skill of guarding your time.

Joe shares his recent experience of moving to a new location and relearning the art of time guarding. He emphasizes the importance of allocating time wisely, especially when dealing with different tiers of clients.

Jason adds valuable insights on applying this concept to online spaces and highlights the significance of standing confidently in your expertise, even as a newcomer.

Key takeaways:

• The power of word-of-mouth increases as you move up in affluence

• Guarding your time is crucial at all levels of business

• It's okay to say no to meetings and invitations, even when starting out

• Pricing can be a marketing tool to attract attention from ideal clients

• Everyone, regardless of success level, faces similar human challenges

Joe shares a powerful anecdote about a young professional who consistently made his presence known in a Rotary club, leading to business opportunities.

Jason underscores the importance of giving yourself permission to guard your time, reminding listeners it's not about ego but about allocating time effectively for your business.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their business and make the most of their time. Whether you're just starting or aiming to break through to the next level, the principles discussed here will serve as your blueprint for success.

Don't miss out on this game-changing conversation that could transform the way you approach your business and time management overall.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/5

Your online presence can make or break million-dollar deals.

In this episode of Sales Assassins, hosts Joe Blackburn and Jason Croft dive deep into the often-overlooked importance of digital presence and media content for professionals.

Joe shares eye-opening experiences where potential high-ticket clients researched him online before committing. He emphasizes how a strong digital footprint can be the deciding factor in closing major deals.

Jason adds valuable insights on leveraging media content to build relationships and enhance credibility. He stresses the importance of giving potential clients material to "binge" on, effectively planting yourself in their minds.

Key takeaways:

• Your online presence is now a crucial part of your professional credibility

• Potential clients will Google you - make sure they like what they find

• Creating content isn't about going viral, it's about providing value to your network

• A strategic online presence complements traditional networking methods

• You don't need to be a content creator - just show that you exist in the digital world

Joe and Jason discuss the balance between maintaining a professional image online and oversharing. They provide practical advice for professionals who may be hesitant about diving into the digital realm.

This episode is a must-listen for any professional looking to stay competitive in today's digitally-driven business landscape. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, you'll gain valuable insights on how to leverage your online presence to close more deals and build stronger professional relationships.

Don't let your lack of digital presence cost you your next big opportunity. Tune in now and learn how to become a true Sales Assassin in both the physical and digital worlds.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/4

Your reputation can make or break your business. But how do you build it strategically?

In this episode of the Sales Assassins Podcast, hosts Joe Blackburn and Jason Croft dive deep into the power of reputation and reach in business networking.

Joe shares his experience of starting from scratch in a new location, emphasizing the importance of being curious about others and creating strategic connections. He warns against the common pitfall of being "that person" everyone avoids at social events.

They talk about the concept of "big dog syndrome," where successful individuals fail to recognize their own influence. Joe elaborates with a personal anecdote about his dogs, drawing parallels to business scenarios. Jason emphasizes the importance of owning your worth and knowing you belong in the room.

The hosts discuss the delicate balance of expanding your reach without coming across as pushy. Joe introduces the concept of "strategic intent" - having a game plan for social interactions without forcing business conversations.

Key takeaways include:

- The importance of keeping social events social

- How to pivot conversations naturally towards business opportunities

- The power of being a giver in your network

- Why immediate gratification in relationship building often backfires

Joe and Jason also touch on the concept of "levels of leverage" - choosing activities and connections that provide the most value for your time investment.

The episode concludes with a real-life example from Joe's coaching experience, illustrating the nuances of seizing opportunities in social settings.

Whether you're new to networking or looking to up your game, this episode provides actionable insights to build your reputation and expand your reach effectively.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.salesassassinspodcast.com/3