Founder-Led Sales: The Key to Early-Stage Startup Growth | Productivity Mastery #212 with Zoltan Vardy

🚀 In episode #220, we welcomed the amazing Martin Wolf, Founder of Visible Leader and Business & Psychology.Listen to this episode and learn:💡 How does emotional contagion influence team performance?💡 In what ways does micromanagement reflect a leader’s need for security?💡How can leaders overcome the curse of knowledge to communicate more effectively?💡What role does self-awareness play in managing emotions as a leader?💡How can creating safe spaces for dialogue help resolve power struggles in the workplace?and many more..About our guest:Martin is a strategist, author, and global management advisor on workplace dynamics — operating at the intersection of leadership, psychology, and performance.Over the past two decades, he has supported organizations such as Nike, BMW, Dynatrace, Danone, Samsung, and T-Mobile, navigating complex transformations both in-house and as an external consultant. His work spans scale-ups, public institutions, and innovation ecosystems across Europe.He has led transformation initiatives impacting 40 country markets, acting as Strategy and Program Director. His focus has been centered on Innovation, Leadership and Cultural Dynamics that drive organizational performance.You can find Martin here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/visiblele...Amazon link: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0F6V9WDV6?r...Chapters:00:00 Intro01:06 Introduction to the Book02:22 Understanding Workplace Dynamics05:36 The Writing Process and Structure06:08 Recurring Patterns in Workplace Dynamics10:26 Exploring Micromanagement17:03 Clarity of Expectations27:08 The Curse of Knowledge and Communication34:09 Understanding Emotional Communication43:44 The Impact of Emotional Contagion52:16 AI and Power Dynamics in OrganizationsEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKv...Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

🚀 In episode #219, we welcomed the amazing Hardeep Dhanjal, Inspirational Speaker & Mindset Trainer.Listen to this episode and learn:💡 What makes Hardeep's journey from music to motivational speaking so inspiring?💡 How does overcoming adversity contribute to personal growth?💡 Why is authenticity so important in motivational speaking?💡 How can daily disciplines lead to long-term success?💡 Why is the journey toward a goal often more meaningful than the goal itself?and many more..About our guest:Keynote Speaker Hardeep Dhanjal is celebrated for his remarkable ability to inspire and transform organizations through his powerful keynotes. His extraordinary journey, from overcoming challenges as an immigrant child to achieving international music stardom and then facing profound personal setbacks, embodies a compelling narrative of resilience and triumph. Hardeep’s story of rising from adversity, navigating a tumultuous music industry, and reinventing himself as a leading motivational speaker highlights his deep understanding of personal and professional growth.You can find Hardeep here:Website: https://hardeepdhanjal.com/LinkedIn: https://dk.linkedin.com/in/hardeepdhanjalChapters:00:00 Introduction and Hardeep's Background02:14 The Journey to Music and Motivation09:13 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Purpose10:41 Transitioning to Speaking and Inspiring Others17:02 The Growth of a Speaker19:43 Authenticity in Speaking26:05 Building Self-Trust and Confidence29:25 Building Trust Through Self-Commitment30:51 Setting Realistic Goals and Stretching Comfort Zones34:23 The Importance of the Journey Over the Destination36:06 Core Values and Personal Growth38:44 The Drive Behind Speaking and Helping Others42:18 Forgiveness and Understanding Family Dynamics48:34 The Role of Personal Development in Life51:32 Supporting Ambitions and Learning from Failure54:03 The Necessity of Personal Development59:50 Future Aspirations and GoalsEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

🚀 In episode #218, we welcomed the amazing Sepideh Dundon, Channel Sales Leader at monday.com.Listen to this episode and learn:💡 Is channel sales an extension of the sales team?💡 How does self-awareness influence the evolution of one’s leadership style over time?💡 What sets coaching apart from therapy or traditional mentoring?💡 What role does psychological safety play in fostering a culture of openness and learning?💡 How does investing in coaching contribute to sustainable personal and organizational growth?About our guest:Sepideh is a dynamic sales leader and accredited coach with a strong track record of leading high-performing, geographically diverse teams across EMEA and LATAM. She brings a builder’s mindset and creative approach to developing and executing go-to-market strategies.Her deep knowledge of EMEA and LATAM markets, combined with a robust professional network, gives her a nuanced understanding of the cultural and business dynamics across both regions.You can find Sepideh here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepidehdundonChapters:00:00 Introduction and Coffee Talk02:11 Understanding Channel Sales Leadership03:57 A Week in the Life of a Channel Sales Leader05:58 Career Evolution and Leadership Style09:54 The Transition to Coaching12:08 Insights from Coaching Training16:02 Demystifying Coaching19:57 Finding the Right Coach23:45 The Importance of Company Culture30:07 Driving Cultural Change from Within32:57 Building a Strong Company Culture48:01 Coaching Techniques and Leadership Styles01:01:39 Navigating Complexity in Leadership01:05:00 Connecting with Sepideh: Future EndeavorsEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

Painting, Designing, Singing, Dancing, Fashion, Spiritual exploration… 🤯𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐝𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐤𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚’𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭? 🎸🚀 In episode #217, we welcomed the amazing Chloe Trujillo. Listen to this episode and learn:💡 Chloe's incredible journey of making a name in the industry💡 Why discipline is the backbone of creative success💡 How to master time management as an artist💡 How to find a balance between structure and creativity💡 How Chloe managed to follow her passion while raising 2 childrenAbout our guest:Chloe Trujillo is one of Los Angeles’s most acclaimed and inspiring voices. Born into a family of artists, she carved her own path influenced by heavy music, mathematics, and other esoteric practices.Chloe started creating complex, layered, deeply saturated metaphorical compositions by allowing symbols, elements, melodies, words, and colors to flow through her, tapping into pure creativity.📸 Just check her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloetrujillo/Her work garners international acclaim in locales such as Paris, London, Berlin, NYC, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, receiving notice in Forbes Magazine, Vogue Italia, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and the New York Times. Chloe was a recipient of the 2022 Juice Merit Award for “Exceptional Creativity”, she was also nominated for Best Female Vocal Performance at the Josie Music Awards. Chloe’s art can currently be seen in Paris at the “Musée de la Philharmonie” and in Los Angeles at “Compound Contemporary”. She is represented by the “Tracy Park” gallery in Malibu. Chloé currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Robert Trujillo, Metallica’s legendary bassist, and their two children.Chapters:00:00 Awkward Warm-Ups and Vocal Exercises02:57 A Week in the Life of Chloe Trujillo05:57 Time Management and Productivity Strategies08:52 Balancing Creativity and Structure12:02 The Role of Discipline in Artistic Pursuits14:59 Navigating the Artistic Journey18:00 Overcoming Creative Blocks21:03 The Influence of Upbringing on Creativity23:56 Choosing the Path of an Artist26:52 The Struggles of an Emerging Artist29:47 The Inner and Outer Struggles of Creativity37:33 Peeling Off the Layers of Fear39:06 The Journey of Spirituality and Healing42:44 Creative Flow and Spiritual Practices45:30 Balancing Family Life and Artistic Pursuits52:49 Navigating Motherhood and Personal Identity56:52 The Art of Performance Under Pressure01:11:15 The Power of Giving Through ArtEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!

🚀 In episode #216, we welcomed Fonz Morris, Former Design Lead at Netflix, Entrepreneur, and Professional Speaker. Listen to this episode and learn:💡 How Netflix grew to $3B+ in Revenue and a massive user base💡 What makes the culture of Netflix a winning one💡 The skillset you need to acquire to thrive in the upcoming AI era💡 How to grow a multidisciplinary career by betting on your strengthsand a lot more...About our guest:Fonz Morris is an entrepreneur and self-taught designer, born in Brooklyn and now based in San Jose. He has worked in tech and design on both coasts of the United States, in Philadelphia, New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C., and California. Since 2020, Fonz Morris has been the Lead Product Designer at Netflix. Prior to joining Netflix, he led a design team at Coursera. Currently, Fonz is a professional speaker, travelling the world and inspiring crowds at the world's largest business events. Chapters:00:00 Early Riser and Family Life02:47 Travel Adventures and Global Engagement03:15 From Brooklyn to Netflix: A Journey of Creativity07:41 Inside Netflix: Role and Responsibilities10:02 User Experience at Netflix: A Commitment to Excellence11:44 Culture of Innovation and Team Dynamics13:19 The Impact of High-Performing Teams14:52 The Intersection of Design and Business15:37 Navigating Challenges in the Creative Industry16:10 Strategic Moves: Password Sharing and Ads Tier18:29 User Acquisition Strategies Post-202222:02 Learning from Competitors and Other Industries23:36 Creative Problem-Solving Process29:24 The Evolving Role of Designers in the Age of AI35:02 The Power of Positivity and Mindset37:02 The Human Element in Technology39:25 Social Media and Self-Perception42:21 The Power of Human Connection46:12 Rethinking Success and Scale49:21 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity58:32 Building a Brand with PurposeEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

🚀 In episode #215, we welcomed Patrick Mork, Former CMO of Google Play and author of "Step back and LEAP"Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKv...Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Listen to this episode and learn:💡 Why struggle is your path to growth and success💡 How Patrick picked himself up after major setbacks💡 Gratitude practices that can enhance happiness and fulfillment.and many more...About our guest:Former Silicon Valley marketing executive with C-level experience at startups and Google20+ years of experience building, scaling companies, and brandsCEO coach and advisor to executives at Google, Facebook, Yahoo!, and leading startups including Betterfly and Xepelin in Latin AmericaMotivational Keynote Speaker on topics of Leadership, Startups, High Performance Teams, and TransformationCEO and co-founder at LEAPChapters:00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection01:59 The Journey of Writing a Book07:01 Overcoming Childhood Challenges14:12 Shifting Mindsets Towards Difficulties19:09 Experiences with Job Loss25:08 Finding Purpose in Life30:46 Self-Awareness and Personal Growth40:54 The Power of Gratitude42:17 Overcoming Fear and Comparison44:53 The Importance of Asking for Help46:50 The Dangers of Individualism50:51 Building Resilience Through Connection54:32 The Five Pillars of ResilienceEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

🚀 In episode #214, we welcomed Anna Nord, Senior People Experience Business Partner at Volvo Cars.Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Listen to this episode and learn:💡What drives HR’s shift from administrative support to a strategic business partner?💡Why is purpose becoming more critical than perks in today’s workplace?💡How do authenticity and vulnerability redefine effective leadership?💡How can leaders prioritize well-being to enhance team productivity?and many more...About our guests:Anna is a global HR expert with 17+ years of experience in human resources across diverse industries such as FMCG, Tech, Telecom, and Automotive, combining business acumen with tech-savvy thinking.She has extensive experience working with Group Leadership Teams and leaders in Engineering, Product, and UX, leading initiatives in organizational development, change management, DE&I, and leadership growth.You can find Anna here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annanord-hr/?originalSubdomain=seChapters: 00:00 Navigating Tech Glitches and Setting the Stage 02:52 The Evolution of HR in a Changing Workplace 05:59 Anna’s Journey into HR and Leadership 09:04 Rethinking the Perception of HR 12:13 Exploring the Future of Work 17:46 Key Leadership Traits for Today’s World 23:48 Building Authentic Leaders and Managers 30:09 Innovative Practices in Modern HR 36:12 Balancing Leadership: Inside and Out 42:03 Leading Through Resistance 48:13 Shifting Organizational Mindsets 52:47 Traits of Peak Performers 01:05:30 HR’s Role in Change Management 01:10:33 Cultivating Resilience and Self-Leadership 01:17:39 Embracing Change with Bounded OptimismEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

🚀 In episode #213, we welcomed Bob Molle, Olympic Medalist and Leadership Coach.Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Listen to this episode and learn:💡What does it mean to truly get comfortable being uncomfortable?💡In what ways does resilience shape the path to success, especially in high-pressure environments?💡Why is stepping into discomfort often essential for personal growth?💡What impact do the people around us have on our mindset and motivation?and many more...About our guests:Bob Molle, an Olympic medalist, two-time Grey Cup champion, and leadership coach, knows firsthand that resilience isn’t just a trait—it’s a skill that can be built, strengthened, and applied to every challenge.Through his keynotes, workshops, and coaching, Bob helps leaders, sales teams, and organizations push past limits, adapt to change, and perform under pressure. His book, Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable (GCBU), embodies this mindset. It’s the foundation of everything he teaches—guiding individuals and teams to turn discomfort into growth, adaptability, and peak performance.You can find Bob here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobmolle/Website:https://bobmolle.com/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Uncomfortable Growth01:20 Overcoming Adversity Through the Olympic Journey06:15 The Role of Preparation in Facing Challenges10:03 Living Life Without Regret11:48 Storytelling and Authenticity in Public Speaking14:40 The Philosophy of Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable18:40 Eastern vs. Western Views on Growth21:31 Personal Growth Through Discomfort23:34 Applying Sports Lessons to Business26:39 Building High-Performing Teams29:41 Developing a Winning Mindset33:22 Exploring the Reality of Positivity34:44 Embracing Challenges with Persistence37:03 Performing Under Pressure and Jet Lag39:40 The Impact of Positive Thinking40:10 Discipline and Consistency as Keys to Success43:37 Relationship Building in Business51:04 Managing Corporate Friction57:45 Balancing Health and Relationships01:01:55 Pursuing Simplicity and Future AspirationsEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

🚀 In episode #212, we welcomed Zoltan Vardy, B2B Sales Advisor, Author & Speaker.Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Listen to this episode and learn:💡What makes sales more about problem-solving than just selling?💡Why do early-stage founders struggle with commercializing their products?💡How does a strong value proposition enhance communication and sales?💡What role do expertise and honesty play in building trust in sales?and many more...About our guests:Zoltan has closed $2 billion in B2B sales over his 30-year global career as a C-suite executive, entrepreneur, and investor. Also, he led a $150 million revenue business across 30 countries as Senior Vice President of Global Sales at NBC Universal International.You can find Zoltan here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoltanvardy/?originalSubdomain=ukWebsite: https://zoltanvardy.com/Chapters: 00:00 Reconnecting and Introduction03:12 Zoltan's Career Journey05:57 Corporate to Entrepreneurship Transition09:12 Challenges for Early-Stage Founders11:55 Shifting Mindsets in Sales15:01 Crafting a Strong Value Proposition17:58 Customer Feedback and Iteration20:59 Effective Outreach Strategies23:55 Navigating the Sales Process26:48 Identifying the Right Customers30:02 Building a Sustainable Business37:24 Cold Calling: A Controversial Approach44:43 Establishing Trust in Sales49:33 Leveraging LinkedIn for Sales Success01:01:13 Mastering Time Management in Sales01:08:32 Cultivating a Sales-Oriented Company CultureEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/

🚀 In episode #211, we welcomed Peter Hopwood, Pitch, Speaker & Storytelling Coach.Listen to this episode and learn:💡How storytelling is essential for effective communication.💡What makes the journey of a speaker one of constant learning and adaptation?💡How public speaking anxiety can be managed through understanding and preparation.💡What makes networking crucial for both speakers and event organizers?and many more...About our guests:Peter is a Pitch, Speaker & Storytelling Coach who helps executives, speakers, founders, and global teams define, craft, and deliver compelling stories. He empowers them to connect effectively, take control of their narrative, and create a lasting impact.As a global LIVE events MC, Peter shapes high-profile stage experiences, having hosted over 500 international events. He brings events to life, ensuring they align seamlessly with the organizer’s objectives.You can find Peter here:LinkedIn: https://hr.linkedin.com/in/peterhopwoodpublicspeakingWebsite: https://www.peter-hopwood.com/Chapters: 00:00 The Origin Story of a Dynamic Duo02:59 The Art of Storytelling and Engagement05:57 From Theater to Public Speaking09:07 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship11:58 Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking14:46 The Importance of Preparation18:01 Understanding Audience Connection21:10 The Role of Confidence in Speaking23:59 Crafting Memorable Experiences27:05 The Preparation Process for Keynotes29:53 Navigating Public Speaking Anxiety33:06 Finding Your Unique Speaking Style41:25 Preparing for the Stage44:18 The Role of Humor in Speaking49:59 Understanding the Audience53:36 The Importance of Networking01:00:13 The Power of Storytelling01:10:52 The Business of SpeakingEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/