Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-sales-rep

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon sits down with Regan Jones, an Independent Sales Representative and member of RepHunter about what it takes to succeed in the industrial sales world. The conversation explores how independent reps create value between manufacturers, distributors, and end users, particularly within the MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) sector.

Regan shares insights from his career journey, from working in distribution and manufacturer roles to becoming an independent rep. The discussion highlights how consultative selling, problem-solving, and building industry relationships play a key role in long-term success. They also dive into topics like pioneering new product lines, navigating B2B sales complexity, and understanding how the rep model fits into the industrial sales channel.

Expect to Learn

- How independent manufacturer reps create value within industrial distribution channels

- The differences between distribution sales, manufacturer roles, and independent rep agencies

- What pioneering a product line means and the effort required to build new market demand

- Why consultative problem-solving is more powerful than competing purely on price

- Key lessons about B2B sales cycles, resistance to change, and building strong industry relationships

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Teaser

[00:00:51] – Introduction

[00:01:49] – What Makes a Great Sales

[00:03:47] – What is MRO

[00:04:52] – Regan’s Journey into Sales

[00:10:09] – Problem-Solving vs Transactional Sales

[00:11:32] – Using RepHunter to Connect with Principals

[00:14:16] – Pioneering New Product Lines

[00:20:04] – Real Sales Story: Reducing Industrial Glove Costs

[00:23:15] – The Hidden Cost of Change in B2B Sales

[00:24:40] – Protecting Intellectual Property in the AI Era

[00:28:53] – Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/rephunter.net/

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

👉 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@repIntel

Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-sales-rep

—-----------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon sits down with Kaushal Chaurasia, a seasoned independent rep and member of RepHunter. The episode highlights the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being an independent rep in today’s global marketplace. Kaushal shares his journey into sales, the lessons he's learned along the way, and how he successfully manages to serve clients across the globe.

Kaushal Chaurasia is an established independent sales representative who works with a diverse network of clients globally. He is a member of RepHunter, a platform that connects independent reps with manufacturers. In this episode, Kaushal offers insights into his journey from a technical career to becoming a sales rep, and how he uses his experience and skills to bridge the gap between companies and customers.

Expect to Learn:

- The Importance of Trust in Sales: Learn how Kaushal emphasizes the need to trust the product you’re selling to be successful.

- Kaushal's Journey: Discover how Kaushal transitioned from technical jobs to sales and why he believes sales is the backbone of any product’s success.

- Global Sales Model: Gain insight into how Kaushal leverages his location in India to work with clients globally, providing a unique perspective on international sales

- Challenges of Independent Sales: Understand the pros and cons of working as an independent rep versus being a part of a larger company.

- RepHunter Platform: Learn how RepHunter has helped Kaushal connect with real business owners and make successful sales in a competitive market.

Timestamps:

[00:00] – Teaser

[01:02] – Introduction to the episode

[02:55] – What makes Kaushal a great sales rep?

[04:17] – Kaushal’s journey into sales

[06:56] – How Kaushal's business model differs from other reps

[10:13] – Discussing the global aspect of Kaushal's work

[14:53] – Transition to independent repping

[19:06] – The benefits of RepHunter

[21:24] – Story of a successful rep experience

[24:14] – Closing remarks & Final thoughts on balancing work and life

📱 Follow the Guest Kaushal Chaurasia:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaushal-chaurasia-641b9b6b

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

👉 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@repIntel

Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-sales-rep

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon sits down with Joseph Gulesserian, the Brand Creator of Brands Fifth Avenue Inc and Author and Creator of The Practical M.B.A on Economics. Joseph shares his wealth of knowledge on the health and beauty consumer packaged goods industry, offering valuable insights into successful sales strategies, building trust with independent reps, and the power of AI in modern sales.

Joseph talks about the art of selling, the psychology behind consumer behavior, and his personal journey that led him to become a key player in the sales world. Learn about the nuances of running a successful sales team, the importance of listening and understanding customers, and how leveraging technology can give you a competitive edge.

Expect to Learn:

- How Brands Fifth Avenue creates health and beauty products that deliver exceptional value to consumers.

- The psychology behind buying decisions: why customers purchase based on emotion, not just price.

- Joseph’s journey from engineering to sales, and how he navigated the many crossroads in his career.

- The challenges and rewards of transitioning from salaried sales roles to independent sales rep positions.

- How AI tools like ChatGPT are revolutionizing competitive analysis and sales strategies.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Teaser

00:49 – Introduction

01:57 – What Makes Brands Fifth Avenue Successful

03:03 – The Psychology of Selling

07:35 – Building a Winning Sales Team with Rep Hunter

15:58 – Blueprinting Your Customer

18:10 – The Challenge of Finding Star Sales Performers

20:27 – The Role of AI in Sales 26:53 – Getting in Front of the Right Buyer

31:36 – Joseph’s Sales Advice

34:23 – Becoming a Trusted Advisor

38:58 – Conclusion

👉Unlock practical business strategies - check out: https://practicalmba.ca/

👉Grab The Guerrilla Guide for Entrepreneurs & The Rest of Us on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GFY99J51

📱 Follow the Guest Joseph Gulesserian:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-gulesserian-962a5515/

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeg_author/

👉 Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brandsfifthave/

👉 Company Website: https://brandsfifthave.com/

👉 Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brands5thavenue/

👉 Book LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-practical-mba/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

👉 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@repIntel

Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-sales-rep

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon sits down with Susan Cashion, President at Growth Wise Consulting, Inc., Executive Advisory Board Member at I AM WHO I SAY I AM.Global, Inc. does her best work. She also serves as a licensed Outsourced Vice President of Sales through Sales Xceleration®, the global leader in sales consultancy for small to mid-sized businesses to unpack the realities of building a successful independent rep channel. Susan shares firsthand experience helping small and mid-sized companies design world-class sales infrastructures, enter new verticals, and avoid costly mistakes when recruiting independent reps.

With 28 years of corporate experience in Fortune 50 companies across B2B and B2C environments, she brings enterprise-level sales expertise to small and mid-sized businesses. After a pivotal life event led her to start her own firm, Susan has spent the past nine years helping CEOs diagnose sales challenges, build scalable sales systems, and create high-performing revenue teams. She specializes in designing sales playbooks, launching new verticals, and preparing companies to successfully engage independent sales reps.

Expect to Learn

- Why being “rep-ready” is critical before hiring independent reps

- The biggest mistakes companies make when entering the 1099 channel

- How pricing strategy (especially D2C discounting) can sabotage rep success

- What motivates independent reps to carry, and stick with, your line

- How to balance flexibility and accountability with 1099 reps without micromanaging

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Teaser

[00:00:53] – Introduction

[00:02:02] – Susan’s Career Journey & Launching Growth Wise Consulting

[00:06:01] – Entering the Rep Channel: The Jewelry Case Study

[00:09:00] – What It Means to Be “Rep-Ready”

[00:13:58] – What Reps Actually Look for in a Line

[00:19:39] – Pricing Strategy Pitfalls & D2C vs. B2B Conflicts

[00:26:51] – The Role of Training & Ongoing Sales Calls

[00:33:37] – Setting Expectations with 1099 Reps (Without Micromanaging)

[00:43:24] – Final Takeaways & Closing Thoughts

📱 Follow the Guest Susan Cashion:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancashion/

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scash0926/

📱 Follow Guest Companies:

👉 Growth Wise Consulting Inc. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-wise-consulting-inc/

👉 Growth Wise Consulting Inc. Website: https://growth-wise.com/

👉 Growth Wise Consulting Inc. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthwiseinc/

👉 Sales Xceleration LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sales-xceleration/

👉 Sales Xceleration Website: https://salesxceleration.com/

👉 I AM WHO I SAY I AM.Global, Inc. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iamwhoisayiam-global-inc/

👉 I AM WHO I SAY I AM.Global, Inc. Website: https://iamwhoisayiam.global/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

👉 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@repIntel

As an active member of RepHunter, Robert brings invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities of being an independent rep in today's competitive landscape. They discuss the key traits that make an effective sales rep, how digital tools like AI and e-commerce are shaping the industry, and how independent reps continue to add unmatched value in the sales process.

Expect to Learn:

- The mindset and skills that make Robert a successful independent rep.

- How Robert transitioned from door-to-door sales to high-level industrial sales.

- Insights into how being a "hunter" sets sales reps apart in today's competitive market.

- The value of the rep model in a digital-first world with AI and e-commerce.

- Strategies for overcoming obstacles in the sales process and working effectively with principals.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Teaser

[01:07] - Introduction

[02:59] - How Robert Got Into Sales

[05:03] - Transition from Consumer to Industrial Sales

[08:01] - The Path to Becoming Independent

[11:34] - Finding RepHunter

[14:40] - Overcoming Challenges with Principals

[16:11] - The Rep’s Advantage in the E-Commerce World

[21:33] - The Biggest Misconception in Sales

[23:35] - Final Thoughts

📱 Follow the Guest Robert Barkle:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertbarkle

👉 Company Website: https://spoton-connect.com/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

👉 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@repIntel

Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Brenda Sorensen, a long-time Sales Manager at RepHunter about shifting focus from independent rep stories to a practical walkthrough of the RepHunter platform itself.

With over two decades of experience, Brenda Sorensen joins the show to guide new and seasoned reps through using the RepHunter website to effectively find new product lines, optimize their profiles, and manage contacts for commission-only sales opportunities.

Brenda Sorensen is the longtime Customer Support Manager at RepHunter, bringing over 20 years of frontline experience helping independent reps and companies navigate the platform. Her deep knowledge of user behavior, platform functionality, and common rep challenges makes her an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to succeed with RepHunter.

Expect to Learn

-How to get started with RepHunter, even if you’re brand new to independent sales

-Pro tips for using the search function to find relevant product lines and companies

-Key strategies for creating a compelling rep profile that attracts attention

-The difference between unregistered and registered user experiences on the site

-How to maintain and organize communications through RepHunter’s built-in tools

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Teaser

[00:01:13] - Meet Brenda Sorensen

[00:04:09] - Who is RepHunter For?

[00:09:32] - Registering as a Rep

[00:10:42] - Inside the Dashboard

[00:12:22] - Building a Strong Profile

[00:14:23] - Using Search and Favorites as a Registered Rep

[00:16:09] - Communication Tools and Contact Management

[00:24:47] - Final Advice and Support Resources

📱 Follow the Guest Brenda Sorensen:

👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendasorensen/

👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/_/1627303846/

👉 X: https://x.com/rephunter

👉Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rephunter.net

👉Company Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

👉Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rep_hunter9/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

👉 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@repIntel

Download the free eGuide here: https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-sales-rep

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks about the evolving landscape of independent sales with Justine Kaufman, Independent Business Owner at The Fully Fashioned. They explore how retail expertise can shape successful sales strategies and how the modern rep’s role extends far beyond just selling into education, mediation, and strategic brand building.

Justine Kaufman is an independent sales rep and a key member of RepHunter. With a background that includes major retail players like Century 21 and Saks Fifth Avenue, she brings a rare combination of buying-side experience and wholesale strategy. Her career trajectory from loss prevention and buying to owning a sales agency makes her a unique voice in the world of independent repping.

Expect to Learn

- The value of retail experience in shaping successful sales strategies.

- How independent reps serve as both brand builders and consultants.

- The process of launching new brands into major retailers.

- Why being a good listener often trumps being a fast talker in sales.

- The evolving role of technology and AI in the independent sales world.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Teaser

[00:00:52] - Introduction

[00:01:52] - From Retail to Wholesale

[00:07:10] - Entering the Sales World Unexpectedly

[00:10:53] - Discovering RepHunter

[00:14:13] - A Success Story in Activewear

[00:18:08] - Redefining Sales — Listening Over Selling

[00:26:43] - Expanding Services: Fractional Sales Management

[00:30:50] - Embracing Innovation and AI

[00:33:39] - Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

📱 Follow the Guest Justine Kaufman:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justine-kaufman-81b80323

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefullyfashioned/?hl=en

👉Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fully-fashioned

👉Company Website: https://thefullyfashioned.com/

👉Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefullyfashioned/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Robert Webb, a highly experienced independent sales representative with more than four decades in the rep industry. The conversation dives into Robert’s long career as a manufacturer’s agent, his transition into building and running his own rep agency, and the hard-earned lessons that come from representing multiple companies across the U.S. and Canada.

Roberts helps manufacturers enter new markets, grow revenue through distribution, and transition from outsourced representation to in-house sales teams. He is also an active mentor to entrepreneurs and emerging reps through organizations such as SCORE and Futurpreneur.

Expect to Learn

- How Robert transitioned from in-house sales roles to independent repping

- Why acting as a “connector”, without touching product or money - is a powerful business model

- The realities of commission structures and protecting your value as a rep - Common pitfalls that cause new reps to fail early

- Why integrity and long-term relationships matter more than short-term income

- How the 80/20 rule shapes a successful rep portfolio

- What new reps must be financially and mentally prepared for before going independent

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Trailer

[00:01:09] – Introduction of Robert Webb

[00:05:53] – How Robert Got Started in Sales

[00:10:54] – The Connector Model: Selling Without Touching Product or Cash

[00:13:23] – Counterintuitive Lessons About Opportunity Evaluation

[00:15:59] – Preparing for the Realities of Independent Repping

[00:19:48] – The 80/20 Rule and Managing Principal Relationships

[00:24:40] – Mentorship, Training, and Advice for the Next Generation of Reps

[00:26:56] – Final Thoughts and Closing

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

Download the free eGuide here:

https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Travis Tabor, CEO of Tabor Sales and Automation and a seasoned sales professional and independent representative.The conversation explores Travis's journey from grassroots hustles to launching his own business, offering valuable insights into what it takes to succeed as an independent sales rep. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a career in sales or looking to improve their approach to business-to-business selling.

Travis Tabor is an independent sales representative and a member of RepHunter. With over 20 years of experience in various sales roles, ranging from retail and automotive to industrial solutions, Travis brings deep expertise and a grounded perspective. His path includes work in both employee and entrepreneurial settings, culminating in his current role where he helps connect manufacturers with ideal sales channels.

Expect to Learn

- The unique value of being a lifelong learner in sales.

- How RepHunter streamlined Travis's business connections.

- The transition from employee to independent rep and business owner.

- Myths about "easy" sales work and what the real grind looks like.

- Why deep product and customer knowledge are essential for long-term success.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Trailer

[00:01:19] – Introduction of Travis Tabor

[00:01:59] – What Makes a Great Rep?

[00:02:29] – Client Interactions and Building Trust

[00:04:43] – Travis’s Sales Journey

[00:05:30] – From Employee to Independent Rep

[00:08:45] – Secrets to Repping Success

[00:13:35] – Debunking the One-Hour-a-Day Myth

[00:17:25] – Closing Thoughts

📱Follow the Guest Travis Tabor:

👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taborsalesandautomation/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

Download the free eGuide here

https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep 

—------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Jim Stack,  an independent sales representative and co-owner of HNW Marketing who helped shape Amazon’s third-party ecosystem from the ground up. Jim shares how his team built billion-dollar product lines, why they’ve stayed committed to a rare “straight commission” model, and what it takes to succeed in highly competitive e-commerce marketplaces. Whether you're a sales professional, brand founder, or new to Amazon, Jim’s insight-packed stories reveal what separates thriving reps from the rest.

With over two decades of experience selling on Amazon, Jim helped pioneer third-party seller relationships on the platform starting as one of the first partners to manually upload products. He’s closed deals with household names like Logitech and continues to build multi-million dollar brands through straight commission work. Jim is also a longtime member of RepHunter and a living testament to the power of integrity, grit, and relationship-based selling.

Expect to Learn

• Why Jim’s team still runs on a straight commission model—and how it pays off
• The inside story of uploading one of the first product spreadsheets on Amazon
• How cold calling with no air conditioning launched Jim’s sales career
• How Amazon success can unlock Target, Walmart, and Costco partnerships
• Why Jim evaluates risk first, not revenue, when taking on new clients

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Teaser

[00:01:12] – Introduction & Background

[00:02:07] – What Makes a Great Sales Rep?

[00:06:32] – Straight Commission: The Old-School Model That Still Works

[00:08:42] – From Selling Newspapers to Wang Computers

[00:16:37] – The Polaroid Pivot: Seeing Digital Before the Crash

[00:18:55] – Founding HW Marketing and Meeting Amazon

[00:21:57] – Building the First Amazon Product Upload Sheet

[00:28:22] – Risk Philosophy and Billion-Dollar Results

[00:30:51] – Using Amazon as a Stepping Stone to Retail

[00:32:48] – The Global View: Amazon Beyond the US

📱 Follow our guest Jim Stack:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-stack-62ab006/

👉 HNW Marketing Website: https://www.hnwmarketing.com/

👉 HNW Marketing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hnw-marketing/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

🔗 Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on launching  your success as an independent sales rep. Share your thoughts or questions in the comments - we’d love to hear from you!

During the conversation, Steven reflects on his career path, his belief that “everyone is in sales,” and how RepHunter played a key role in his company’s early success. He offers valuable lessons on persistence, innovation, and integrity in business relationships. Listeners will gain a behind-the-scenes look at the systems, strategies, and mindset that helped him turn Continents Brands into a trusted international company.

Key Topics:

• How Steven built Continents Brands into a full-service global e-commerce firm.
• The mindset shifts from traditional sales to modern online representation.
• Why does every business depend on selling ideas, not just products?
• The challenges of managing international teams and time zones.
• How RepHunter helped Steven find early clients and long-term success.

Episode Highlights and Timestamps:

[00:00] - Teaser & Introduction to Steven J Husak and Continents Brands

[02:01] - Why Steven Is a Great Rep & His No-Upfront-Cost E-Commerce Solution

[04:50] - Steven shares his journey into sales and how it evolved.

[05:52] - From insurance to global sales and leadership lessons

[07:17] - Early vision for online retail before “drop shipping” was common

[08:26] - Founding Continents Brands during the recession

[11:58] - Going independent and building a global 24/7 team

[15:12] - EDI & Investing in IT systems to streamline operations and service

[18:46] - RepHunter’s impact and the value of long-term relationships

[20:38] - How Steven J. Husak Challenges the Norms

[22:36] - Why Readiness Is Key Before Hiring Sales Reps

[25:01] - Final reflections on innovation, loyalty, and collaboration

📱 Follow our guest, Steven J Husak:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steven_husak/

👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steven.husak

👉 Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064272270018

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrhilliard/

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilliard3979/#

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289 

🔗 Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on launching your success as an independent sales rep. Share your thoughts or questions in the comments - we’d love to hear from you!

During the conversation, Jim reflects on his career path, sharing how he approaches problem-solving and the challenges of collaborating with large corporations. He also discusses how joining RepHunter became a turning point in his ongoing success. Listeners will gain valuable insights into Jim’s principles of integrity, his long-term vision in sales, and the strategies he uses to excel in the ever-changing world of sales.

Key Topics:

• The start of Jim's sales career: From selling Turkey raffle tickets in grade school to booking talent for college parties.
• Transitioning to independent sales: Moving from large corporations like NCR, Hewlett Packard, and IBM to becoming an independent rep.
• Honesty and integrity in sales: Jim’s philosophy of never overcommitting and treating everyone with respect.
• The value of persistence: Why taking "no" as "not now" is essential for long-term success.
• Building a business on solving problems: Jim’s approach to sales focusing on helping businesses save money through services like credit card processing audits.

Episode Highlights and Timestamps:

[00:00] - Teaser & Introduction to Jim Hilliard and his career.

[02:15] - Jim’s early sales experience and customer interaction lessons.

[04:48] - Booking talent and using computers for the first time.

[05:51] - Jim’s time as an undercover officer for the FBI.

[07:18] - Transition to the corporate world with NCR, HP, and IBM.

[08:06] - Shift to independent sales and solving problems.

[10:05] - Why Jim prefers independence over large companies.

[12:16] - Jim’s theory on “Become your own boss”

[13:58] - Jim’s life goal and having fun while problem-solving

[14:34] - Sharing some AHA moments

[14:56] - Helping businesses save money through audits.

[17:19] - Example of success in sales

[18:04] - RepHunter Principles and clients

[21:03] - Episode wrap-up with Jim’s closing insights.

📱 Follow our guest, Jim Hilliard:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrhilliard/

👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrhilliard/

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilliard3979/#

👉 Eliances Website: https://www.eliances.com/

👉Eliances LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eliances/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on launching your success as an independent sales rep. Share your thoughts or questions in the comments - we’d love to hear from you!

Key Topics:

1.The path from corporate sales to independent rep: Jerry's early career at Bristol-Myers and other large consumer products companies.

2.The crucial role of relationships and connections: How building a network as an employee made the transition to an independent agency easier.

3.The best thing about RepHunter is putting companies in front of his agency every week, and how 50-60% of their clients come through the platform.

4.The importance of persistence in sales.

5.Utilizing technology in an independent agency: Using virtual assistants and AI for productivity and support.

6.The value of consulting: Adding a consulting piece to the service offered to clients, especially startups, and how it impacts compensation.

Episode Highlights and Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction to Jerry Campanella, his 31 years in independent sales, and 21 years with RepHunter.

[00:02:00] - Jerry's start in sales, working for his dad, and his first corporate job at Bristol-Myers.

[00:04:33] - Jerry's experience running a small business division of Stratton of London, which provided connections to future sales reps.

[00:06:07] - Starting his own totally independent company, and a focus on consumer products.

[00:08:41] - How RepHunter became a critical tool for his company's growth, contributing to 50-60% of their clients.

[00:09:51] - Jerry's multi-rep agency structure and how they use virtual assistants for tasks like reaching out to retail chains.

[00:11:38] - Utilizing AI (his "assistant Ringo") strictly for correspondence and productivity support, not customer-facing sales.

[00:13:30] - The controversial but successful approach of acting as a consultant to new clients who are not yet "rep ready".

[00:14:42] - Final thoughts on adding a consulting piece to the business and how it aids cash flow with a multi-rep team.

📱 Follow our guest, Jerry Campanella:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-campanella-a44baa31b/

📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon:

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/

📱 Follow RepHunter:

👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/

🔗 Listening Links:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45

👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

🔗 Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on unleashing your success as an independent sales rep. Share your thoughts or questions in the comments - we’d love to hear from you!

Introducing RepIntel: Insights from top sales reps!

Join host Jeffrey Simon, Founder of RepHunter, as he shares the wisdom he's gained over two decades of connecting companies with elite independent sales talent.

In every episode, Jeffrey sits down with the industry’s most successful, high-earning independent representatives. They’ll reveal their proven methods—from securing exclusive lines and navigating complex deals to achieving sustainable, high-commission success.

Whether you are an established company seeking guaranteed sales results or a sales professional aiming for peak performance, RepIntel delivers the intelligence you need.

RepIntel is coming soon. Subscribe today and prepare to elevate your sales strategy.