Episode #27: Stop Networking—And Start Building a Network Instead!

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

#Entrepreneur #Business #Chuck Blakeman #Podcasting Education

39:50

The truth is out West! We’re hopping on the ET Highway and venturing to the most notorious alien hot spots, including Roswell’s infamous crash site, Area 51’s eerie perimeter, and a mysterious desert watchtower. Join us as journalist Laura Krantz, host of the podcast Wild Thing , beams up to share stories from the front lines of UFO reporting—from strange sightings and quirky festivals to a mailbox where people leave letters to extraterrestrials. Maybe you’ll even decide for yourself: Is Earth a tourist stop for spaceships? UFO hot spots you’ll encounter in this episode: - UFO Watchtower (near Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado) - Roswell, New Mexico - Area 51, Nevada - Extraterrestrial Highway (aka State Route 375), Nevada - Little A’Le’Inn, ET Highway, Nevada - E.T. Fresh Jerky, ET Highway, Nevada - Alien Research Center, ET Highway, Nevada - The Black Mailbox, ET Highway, Nevada Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group .…

about a year ago 13:02

MP4•Episode home

Most business owners have been told that networking is the key to growth. But what if that’s a myth? What if traditional networking is actually keeping you trapped in an endless cycle of chasing customers—rather than building a thriving business? In this episode, Chuck Blakeman challenges the conventional wisdom around networking and reveals three powerful reasons why successful business owners don’t waste time at networking events. Instead, they focus on building strong, strategic relationships that drive long-term success. 💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ Why traditional networking keeps small businesses small ✅ How to replace transactional sales with a relational business model ✅ The secret to finding “lumberjacks” who bring you the right clients—without endless networking ✅ How to shift from hunting one customer at a time to leveraging powerful connections ✅ Why building a network (instead of just networking) leads to more freedom and profitability 🎧 About Our Host: Chuck Blakeman is a serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, and business transformation expert. With 13 businesses under his belt, Chuck has helped thousands of business owners break free from outdated strategies and build companies that run beyond them. His latest book, Sell Less, Earn More, dives deep into the mindset shift that turns struggling entrepreneurs into thriving business leaders. 🚀 Why This Episode Matters: If you’re tired of handing out business cards, chasing leads, and feeling stuck in a never-ending sales cycle, this episode will help you shift your approach. By focusing on a few key relationships rather than countless surface-level connections, you’ll gain more time, more revenue, and more freedom. 💡 Host’s Takeaway: Networking might be a great starting point, but it shouldn’t be your long-term strategy. The most successful business owners don’t rely on endless networking—they build real, high-value relationships with just a few key partners. When you make this shift, your business will grow exponentially while requiring less effort. 🎯 Don’t just listen—take action. Start building your network today and move from being an income producer to a true business owner. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: 📖 Sell Less, Earn More by Chuck Blakeman – Available on Amazon HERE 🌐 Connect with Chuck at www.3to5club.com 📩 Get Chuck’s business growth guide at for a limited price of $2.99 HERE "Successful business owners don’t go to networking events. And if you’re spending too much time networking, you might actually be holding your business back. In this episode, I’ll show you why—and what you should be doing instead." —Chuck Blakeman

39 episodes

Episode #27: Stop Networking—And Start Building a Network Instead!

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

published about a year ago

MP4•Episode home

39 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Chuck Blakeman #Podcasting Education

All episodes

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #39: The Four Quadrants of Marketing 9:26

4 days ago9:26

9:26

Are you spending more and getting less from your marketing? It might be time to ditch the noise and go where the gold is. In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman breaks down the Four Quadrants of Marketing—from high-cost advertising to the underused strategy that consistently delivers results for small business owners: Relationship Marketing. Whether you’re overwhelmed by ad budgets, tired of cold outreach, or just want to build a more human business, this episode gives you the clarity to choose the right marketing strategy for your size, stage, and values. 🎯 You’ll discover: ✅ Why small businesses struggle with Quadrant 1 (and why that’s okay) ✅ The difference between shotgun marketing and laser-focused direct outreach ✅ Real-world examples of how PR can drive big results with small budgets ✅ Why Relationship Marketing is the #1 growth strategy for small businesses ✅ Chuck’s personal favorite metric: “The closer you are to a hug, the more likely you are to sell something.” 💡 “In a small business, you don’t ‘have to’ build relationships—you ‘get to.’” If you want more leads, less pressure, and better long-term ROI, this episode is your blueprint.…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #38: Making Sales Joyful with Lynn Whitbeck 19:14

11 days ago19:14

19:14

In this episode of Get Off the Treadmill , Chuck Blakeman sits down with Lynn Whitbeck, the queen of joyful sales, to explore how shifting your mindset from “selling” to “serving” can transform your business—and your happiness. Lynn shares how worthy intent , authenticity, and a simple sales plan can make sales not only effective, but fulfilling. If you’ve ever said “I hate selling,” this episode is for you. 🎙️ You’ll discover: ✅ Why “worthy intent” creates genuine client connection ✅ The power of showing up authentically (no scripts, no sleaze) ✅ How to build a sales strategy that feels natural—and scalable ✅ What to do when a prospect isn’t a good fit (hint: it’s still a win) ✅ How joy in the process leads to better clients and longer relationships 💡 “When you lead with service, joy follows—and so do your ideal clients.” ----more---- 👤 About Lynn Whitbeck: Lynn Whitbeck is the Queen of Joyful Sales. Business owners and entrepreneurs hire Lynn to ignite winning sales—because most fail to connect, capture, and close their ideal clients. She is the Founder and CEO of Petite2Queen , and host of Claim Your Career Crown and the Get More Clients Show streaming on Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Lynn loves visiting national parks, cooking, and playing Pokémon Go. 📌 Connect with Lynn & Explore More: 🔹 Website: https://petite2queen.com 🔹 Facebook: @petite2queen 🔹 Instagram: @petite2queen 🔹 YouTube: Petite2Queen Channel 🔹 Get More Clients TV Show: Watch Here 🔹 LinkedIn: Lynn Whitbeck 🔹 Grow Your Business Masterclass 🔹 Fortune 500 Sales Secrets eBook 🔹 Get More Clients Checklist…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #37: Why Do We Sell to Strangers? 16:14

18 days ago16:14

16:14

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman tackles a question most business owners never stop to ask: Why are we still selling to strangers—and what if we didn’t have to? Drawing from his decades of entrepreneurial experience, Chuck breaks down the outdated, industrial-age mindset that still drives most sales strategies today—and introduces a far better alternative. The episode explores how building trust and connection before the sale can eliminate the awkwardness, pressure, and inefficiency of chasing cold leads. 🎙️ You’ll discover: ✅ Why “the closer you are to a hug, the more likely you are to sell” ✅ How to build a steady stream of warm prospects (without cold calls) ✅ The second and third degree of separation strategy to unlock your network ✅ Why relationship-based selling beats transactions—every time ✅ A mindset shift that makes business more human (and more fun) 💬 “ It’s not about selling harder. It’s about connecting deeper. ” If you’re tired of chasing cold leads, awkward closes, and old-school sales tactics—this episode will show you how to grow through trust, not transactions.…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #36: Getting Your Numbers Right-Side Up with Allison Harvey 22:28

25 days ago22:28

22:28

In this powerful follow-up conversation, Chuck Blakeman sits down once again with Allison Harvey—founder of Benediction Counseling—and business advisor Mark Bellestri to explore what it really takes to get your business finances right-side up. Allison shares candidly about a time when she was on the brink: maxed out loans, dipping into personal savings, and carrying the emotional weight of protecting her team. With help from outside eyes and a strategic shift in mindset, she rebuilt her business on a foundation of clarity, accountability, and sustainable growth. 🎙️ You’ll discover: ✅ What to do when your business is bleeding cash ✅ The “3 or 4 major levers” that affect profitability ✅ How mindset shifts around money and leadership changed everything ✅ Why knowing your break-even number is a game-changer ✅ How moving from “employer” to “stakeholder” culture helped her team thrive 💡 “Profit isn’t greedy—it’s what makes the risk of ownership sustainable.”…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #35: How to Never Ask for a Referral Again 15:04

5 weeks ago15:04

15:04

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman dives into a game-changing mindset shift for small business owners: how to get more referrals without ever asking for them—at least not in the way you've been taught. Chuck introduces a powerful, proven question that flips the referral process on its head. Instead of centering yourself, you'll learn how to engage clients by focusing on how they can help their friends. He unpacks the psychology behind why traditional referral requests often fail and shows you how this one simple, intentional question can lead to stronger client trust and more business. Plus, Chuck breaks down the four best moments to “not ask” for a referral—including one that might surprise you: when you’ve messed up. If you’re tired of awkwardly asking for referrals or feeling salesy, this episode is your blueprint for authentic growth through real relationships. 🧠 Key Takeaway: “Do you know one other person who might benefit from the experience you’re having?”…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #34: How to Build Trust and Grow Your Business with Liz Daeninck 9:12

6 weeks ago9:12

9:12

In this episode of Get Off the Treadmill , Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Liz Daeninck, Founder of Valentis Wellness, to explore the simple—but powerful—principle that drives sustainable business growth: consistency. Chuck and Liz break down why doing what you say you’ll do isn’t just good ethics—it’s the ultimate marketing tool. They explain how consistency builds trust, why it’s cheaper and smarter to keep a client than chase new ones, and how a simple, structured plan can lead to higher referrals and better client relationships. Whether you’re in wellness, business coaching, or selling chairs, the truth is universal: clients refer those they trust—and trust starts with consistency.…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #33: How To Set An Appointment with a Potential Customer 17:29

7 weeks ago17:29

17:29

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman dives into what he calls a counter-logical approach to filling your appointment calendar—one that starts with how you lead, not how you sell. He unpacks why most sales processes break down before the pitch even starts and shows you how to create a steady stream of potential clients using the Proximity Principle (aka the Hug Principle). Chuck revisits the Four Walking-In Commitments and the Four Buying Questions, then breaks down the four types of marketing quadrants—explaining why relationship marketing gives small business owners an “unfair advantage.” You’ll learn a practical, proven system to schedule appointments with ease and confidence, helping you stand out as a leader, not just another salesperson. If you're tired of chasing leads and want a strategy that actually fills your calendar, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: ✅ Why being a leader starts with how you schedule appointments ✅ The "Proximity Principle" and why it works ✅ A two-step appointment-setting system that increases responses ✅ The surprising quadrant where most small business owners should focus their energy ✅ How to use polite persistence with multiple mediums (text, email, call) without being pushy 📌 Listen now and learn how to make your sales process work before the sales conversation even begins.…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #32: Stakeholder Mindset with Jeff Krommendyk 21:00

8 weeks ago21:00

21:00

In this episode of Get Off the Treadmill , Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Jeff Krommendyk, former owner of Security First Insurance Agency, to dive deep into how small business owners can build intentional company cultures—no matter their size. Jeff shares his inspiring journey from the grind of startup life to creating a freedom-based business model, and eventually selling his successful agency. Together, Chuck and Jeff explore the concept of a stakeholder mindset—how rethinking roles, language, and responsibility can transform a traditional "employee culture" into one rooted in ownership, dignity, and trust. Jeff shares practical strategies like rewriting the employee handbook, reshaping job postings, and redefining decision-making through the powerful “above and below the waterline” framework. This episode is packed with wisdom for any business owner looking to empower their team, elevate their culture, and get off the treadmill of working in the business instead of on it. Take the next step and grab a copy of Chuck’s new book, Sell Less Earn More : https://www.amazon.com/dp/1642011819…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #31: Four Buying Questions 17:57

9 weeks ago17:57

17:57

In this episode, Chuck Blakeman reveals how to shift from traditional selling to serving with his Four Buying Questions approach. Discover how to build deeper client relationships, earn trust, and guide them to make informed decisions — all without pushing a sale. Key Insights: 🔑 Principles Behind the Four Buying Questions Serve, Don’t Sell: Focus on your client’s needs, not your product. Meet Them Where They Are: Understand their present situation, not where you want them to be. Seek to Understand: Listen to your client’s challenges before offering solutions. 🔑 The Four Buying Questions Framework Past Question: “How did you get started in your business?” Future Question: “What’s your vision for the next 3, 5, or 10 years?” Present Question: “What’s the one thing you can do today to move forward?” Customer Profile Question: “Who is your ideal customer?” 🔑 The Four Walking In Commitments Prioritize their long-term best interest. Only discuss your business when invited. Focus on cultivating relationships, not immediate sales. Always make an offer, even if it’s unrelated to your service. Stop selling and start serving. By asking thoughtful questions instead of delivering pitches, you build trust, clarify your client’s needs, and create lasting success.…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #30: The Power of Intentions, Part 2 with Ben Kimball 21:24

9 weeks ago21:24

21:24

In this episode of the Get Off the Treadmill Podcast , host Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Ben Kimball, co-owner of Kimball Productions and COO, Senior Editor, Producer, and Screenwriter. Ben shares insights from his journey in shifting his business mindset, inspired by Chuck’s book, Making Money is Killing Your Business. Key Points Discussed: Starting with the End in Mind: Defining your desired outcome to guide decisions. From Survival to Intention: Shifting from just “paying the mortgage” to building a self-sustaining business. Leadership vs. Management: The importance of effective delegation and avoiding abdication. Parallel Lessons in Fatherhood: Investing time upfront for long-term efficiency. Five-Question Process: Clarifying goals, timelines, roadmaps, obstacles, and actionable steps. Check our special offer for the Making Money is Killing Your Business : https://bit.ly/m/3to5Club Take the next step and grab a copy of Chuck’s new book, Sell Less Earn More : https://www.amazon.com/dp/1642011819…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #29: How to Never Have Commission Breath Again: The Four Walking-In Commitments 9:20

12 weeks ago9:20

9:20

Most business owners hate selling—but what if you never had to sell again? In this episode, we’re tackling commission breath—that desperate energy potential clients can sense a mile away. We'll share how Chuck unknowingly fell into this trap and the four simple commitments that completely transformed his buying conversations. Key Takeaways: ✅ How commission breath silently kills your sales. ✅ The three foundational principles that shift you from selling to serving. ✅ The Four Walking-In Commitments that ensure clients seek you out. ✅ Why NOT talking about your business can actually increase sales. 🚀 Why This Episode Matters: If you’re tired of chasing clients and feeling like sales is a necessary evil, this episode is for you. These commitments will change the way you approach business development—helping you build relationships instead of forcing transactions. 💡 Host’s Takeaway: Once I stopped focusing on closing deals and started focusing on serving, my business flourished. The Four Walking-In Commitments allowed me to attract more clients naturally, without feeling pushy or desperate. 🎯 Don’t just listen—take action. "You get what you intend, not what you hope for." 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: 📖 Sell Less, Earn More by Chuck Blakeman – Available on Amazon HERE 🌐 Connect with Chuck at www.3to5club.com 📩 Get Chuck’s business growth guide at for a limited price of $2.99 here Try these four commitments in your next client meeting and see the difference for yourself. Have you ever experienced commission breath? Drop a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear your thoughts!…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #28: The Power of Moving From Rugged Individualism to Living in Business Community with Carey Lindeman 28:53

13 weeks ago28:53

28:53

What if the best businesses weren’t planned, but discovered? In this episode, Chuck Blakeman sits down with Carey Lindeman, founder of Promise Care, to discuss how an unexpected volunteer experience led her to create a thriving home care business—and why she’s now transitioning into a new role as a business community leader. 💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ How Carey stumbled into entrepreneurship by filling a need in the senior care industry ✅ The importance of business communities and why every entrepreneur needs one ✅ The four building blocks of a successful business and how they create sustainable growth ✅ Why simplicity in strategic planning is key to long-term success 🎧 About Our Guest: With nearly two decades of entrepreneurial experience, Carey Lindeman built Promise Care, a boutique senior care company focused on dignity and relationships. Now, she’s stepping into a new role as a co-facilitator of business communities, helping entrepreneurs build businesses that serve their lives—not the other way around. Why This Episode Matters: Many entrepreneurs struggle with isolation and uncertainty. Carey’s story highlights how being in a structured business community provides clarity, support, and fresh perspectives. Whether you're starting out or scaling up, having outside eyes on your business is a game-changer. Host’s Takeaway: "Entrepreneurs don’t need more complexity—they need clarity and community. Carey’s journey proves that success comes from movement, not over-planning. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your business, this episode is for you." 👉 Don’t just listen—take action. Find a community, simplify your strategy, and start building a business that gives you freedom! 👉 Links & Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Promise Care: https://promisecareinc.com/ Discover 3to5 Club and how it helps business owners thrive: www.3to5club.com Book recommendation: The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki 🎙 Stay tuned for more episodes on building businesses that give you freedom, not just money!…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #27: Stop Networking—And Start Building a Network Instead! 13:02

14 weeks ago13:02

13:02

Most business owners have been told that networking is the key to growth. But what if that’s a myth? What if traditional networking is actually keeping you trapped in an endless cycle of chasing customers—rather than building a thriving business? In this episode, Chuck Blakeman challenges the conventional wisdom around networking and reveals three powerful reasons why successful business owners don’t waste time at networking events. Instead, they focus on building strong, strategic relationships that drive long-term success. 💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ Why traditional networking keeps small businesses small ✅ How to replace transactional sales with a relational business model ✅ The secret to finding “lumberjacks” who bring you the right clients—without endless networking ✅ How to shift from hunting one customer at a time to leveraging powerful connections ✅ Why building a network (instead of just networking) leads to more freedom and profitability 🎧 About Our Host: Chuck Blakeman is a serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, and business transformation expert. With 13 businesses under his belt, Chuck has helped thousands of business owners break free from outdated strategies and build companies that run beyond them. His latest book, Sell Less, Earn More , dives deep into the mindset shift that turns struggling entrepreneurs into thriving business leaders. 🚀 Why This Episode Matters: If you’re tired of handing out business cards, chasing leads, and feeling stuck in a never-ending sales cycle, this episode will help you shift your approach. By focusing on a few key relationships rather than countless surface-level connections, you’ll gain more time, more revenue, and more freedom. 💡 Host’s Takeaway: Networking might be a great starting point, but it shouldn’t be your long-term strategy. The most successful business owners don’t rely on endless networking—they build real, high-value relationships with just a few key partners. When you make this shift, your business will grow exponentially while requiring less effort. 🎯 Don’t just listen—take action. Start building your network today and move from being an income producer to a true business owner. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: 📖 Sell Less, Earn More by Chuck Blakeman – Available on Amazon HERE 🌐 Connect with Chuck at www.3to5club.com 📩 Get Chuck’s business growth guide at for a limited price of $2.99 HERE "Successful business owners don’t go to networking events. And if you’re spending too much time networking, you might actually be holding your business back. In this episode, I’ll show you why—and what you should be doing instead." —Chuck Blakeman…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #26: Serve, Don’t Sell: The Path to Sustainable Success with Jennifer Stapleton 18:09

15 weeks ago18:09

18:09

In this episode, we dive into a game-changing business philosophy: Serve, Don’t Sell. Chuck sits down with Jennifer Stapleton, founding partner of Fire & Bliss, to explore why leading with service—not sales—creates better outcomes for businesses and clients alike. 💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ Why serving clients’ true needs leads to long-term success ✅ How to align your business with your values and ideal clients ✅ The power of referrals and trust in building a sustainable brand ✅ How fear-based decision-making can hold you back—and what to do instead 🎧 About Our Guest: Jennifer Stapleton is a communications strategist, business owner, and artist who brings a unique blend of creativity and strategy to the world of marketing. Through Fire & Bliss, she has helped advocacy organizations achieve major policy wins, supported nonprofits in fulfilling their missions, and landed hundreds of stories in major U.S. publications. 🚀 Why This Episode Matters: Too many entrepreneurs focus on closing the next sale instead of building lasting relationships. This episode challenges that mindset, showing you how generosity and service can actually drive more business success. 💡 Host’s Takeaway: The best businesses aren’t built on pressure tactics—they’re built on trust. When you prioritize the long-term success of your clients (even if that means referring them elsewhere), your own business will thrive in return. 👉 Don’t just listen—take action. Click play now and find the path to sustainable success! Links & Resources Mentioned: Website: www.fireandbliss.com Jennifer Stapleton's LinkedIn: @jenniferbcstapleton Chuck Blakeman's new book: Sell Less, Earn More: PREORDER HERE What happens when you stop trying to “sell” and start genuinely serving? Jennifer shares a powerful real-world example of how putting others first can lead to unexpected business growth.…

Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

1
Episode #25: Pick a Business Maturity Date (Part 2) 11:41

16 weeks ago11:41