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