Staffing & Recruiter Training Podcast

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Dr. Howard Dover, author of The Sales Innovation Paradox, about why technological advancements in sales have paradoxically led to decreased performance. Dr. Dover explores how the explosion of sales technologies, designed to improve efficiency, has instead resulted in overcrowded outreach strategies, diminishing returns, and frustrated buyers. He explains that while technology has enabled sales professionals to scale outreach dramatically, it has also triggered defensive behaviors among buyers, making traditional best practices less effective. Key topics include the "Sales Innovation Paradox," where scaling sales activities leads to declining results, and the "SIP cycle" (Sales Innovation, then behavioral shift) that explains how buyers adapt to overused sales tactics. Dr. Dover shares real-world examples, including Microsoft’s successful strategy of human-assisted digital funnels that led to an 8x increase in pipeline and 10x in revenue.

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Brian Will, sales expert and author of No: The Psychology of Sales and Negotiation, about how professionals can master the art of sales by understanding human psychology. Brian shares insights from his decades of experience training sales teams, emphasizing that success in sales is not just about presenting a product or service but about anticipating and overcoming objections before they arise. He explains how professionals can build a structured sales process that helps clients make confident decisions without feeling pressured. Key topics include identifying the top four objections in any sales process and addressing them proactively, using the “Three Whys and a When” framework to qualify prospects effectively, and employing active listening and connective responses to build trust with potential clients. Brian also discusses how to break down the initial wall of mistrust that most prospects have, the role of scripting in sales success, a

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Darren Wurz, financial planner and author of The Lawyer Millionaire, about how rainmakers can improve cash flow management to build long-term financial stability. Darren explains that many high-income professionals struggle with inconsistent cash flow, lifestyle creep, and a lack of clear financial planning. He shares strategies for structuring finances in a way that ensures sustainability, security, and future wealth accumulation. Key topics include managing cash flow fluctuations, creating a cash flow plan instead of a restrictive budget, and optimizing savings strategies to balance short-term enjoyment with long-term financial goals. Darren also discusses the importance of using tools like Mint.com to track spending, separating personal and business finances, and working with financial professionals to ensure accountability. He provides actionable steps for professionals looking to gain better control of their financial future while mai

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Dom Bertoncini, professional hypnotist and mindset coach, about overcoming limiting beliefs to unlock financial and professional success. Dom shares his journey from selling insurance to becoming a sought-after hypnotist working with elite athletes, demonstrating how shifting mental barriers can lead to significant breakthroughs. He explains that high-performing professionals often struggle with self-imposed limitations, and by addressing these subconscious beliefs, they can elevate their performance and results. Key topics include understanding the role of the subconscious mind in business success, using hypnosis and visualization techniques to rewire limiting beliefs, and adopting a mindset of radical responsibility. Dom discusses how professionals can take full ownership of their outcomes, reframe challenges as opportunities, and develop resilience by shifting their internal dialogue. He also shares practical exercises, such as sleep hy

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Kim Rennick, Director of Client Relations at Covington & Burling, about the importance of playing the long game in business development. Kim shares insights from her extensive experience in sales, marketing, and business development at top global law firms and explains why relationships are at the heart of every successful business interaction. She emphasizes that trust and authenticity take time to develop, and professionals who focus on immediate results often miss out on long-term opportunities. Key topics include the importance of curiosity and generosity in client relationships, avoiding transactional business development approaches, and understanding when a prospect is truly ready to buy. Kim shares real-world examples of business development failures caused by a lack of authenticity and provides actionable strategies for building relationships based on trust rather than pressure. She also discusses how COVID-19 has reshaped networki

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Sean Doyle, B2B sales and marketing strategist and author of Shift: 19 Practical Business-Driven Ideas for an Executive in Charge of Marketing but Not Trained for the Task, about strengthening new client relationships. Sean shares insights on how professionals can improve client retention by understanding behavioral decision-making patterns and addressing common pitfalls in business development. He explains that professionals often invest significant time in acquiring new clients but fail to nurture the relationship after closing the deal, leading to client churn. Key topics include recognizing key moments of buyer hesitation, overcoming buyer’s remorse, and leveraging behavioral science to reinforce the value of a client’s decision to work with you. Sean introduces the concept of "centricity," a framework that helps professionals align their sales, marketing, and customer success efforts to improve client engagement and long-term retentio

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Anna Rappaport, business development coach and former attorney, about how leaders of business development teams can maximize performance. Anna introduces the Six Working Geniuses, a tool developed by Patrick Lencioni, which helps professionals identify their strengths and align their work with what gives them energy. She explains how understanding these six "geniuses" can improve collaboration, streamline business development efforts, and help teams work more efficiently. Key topics include defining the six working geniuses—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity—and how recognizing these strengths can improve team dynamics. Anna discusses how business development leaders can use this framework to assign tasks based on natural strengths, leading to greater productivity and job satisfaction. She also shares insights on how law firms and professional service firms can leverage this tool to drive growth, foster e

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Stewart Hirsch, business development coach and former attorney, about the importance of creating an effective business plan for professionals. Stewart explains that a well-structured business plan is more than just setting goals—it’s a roadmap that outlines specific actions, fosters accountability, and ensures steady progress toward professional growth. He emphasizes that business development should be intentional, aligning personal and professional goals for sustainable success. Key topics include the three essential components of a business plan—firm-related objectives, personal development, and business development strategies. Stewart discusses how professionals can break down their goals into actionable steps, the importance of tracking progress regularly, and how to create a plan that is both structured and flexible. He also shares insights on avoiding common pitfalls, such as setting unrealistic goals or overcomplicating the process,

In this special episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love takes the mic solo to share practical strategies for assessing progress and setting goals for the second half of the year. Scott draws on lessons from his time at the U.S. Naval Academy, using navigation techniques as a metaphor for goal setting. He explains how professionals can course-correct mid-year by evaluating their current trajectory and making adjustments to ensure they reach their desired outcomes. Key topics include setting measurable annual goals across six key areas—business, personal finances, family, physical health, recreation, and mental well-being—along with strategies for tracking progress and staying accountable. Scott emphasizes the power of documenting key performance indicators, recognizing daily achievements, and learning from past mistakes to improve future performance. He also shares insights on personal development, the importance of intentional networking, and how professionals can build habits that lead to long-ter

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Renee Branson, certified resilience coach and mental health expert, about the economic impact of mental health on rainmakers. Renee explains that mental well-being is directly linked to professional performance, client relationships, and business development success. She emphasizes that while discussions around mental health have become more normalized, many professionals still struggle with burnout, stress, and the high-pressure demands of their careers. Key topics include the role of resilience in preventing burnout, how law firms and professional organizations can support well-being, and the financial costs of attrition when mental health is ignored. Renee also discusses how leaders can create a culture of openness, implement policies that promote mental wellness, and provide tangible support for their teams. She shares actionable strategies for individuals and firms to improve resilience, foster engagement, and retain top talent. This

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Don Kelly, sales expert and founder of The Sales Evangelist, about mastering discovery calls to improve client conversations and close more deals. Don shares his insights on why discovery calls should be treated as a mutual research process rather than just a sales qualification tool. He explains that prospects often don’t fully understand how to buy, and the best sales professionals act as trusted guides, helping them navigate the decision-making process with clarity and confidence. Key topics include the importance of structuring discovery calls with a clear roadmap, asking insightful questions to uncover client needs, and using visual tools to simplify complex sales processes. Don also discusses how to avoid common pitfalls such as overwhelming prospects with too much information, assuming they understand industry jargon, and failing to control the flow of the conversation. He shares actionable strategies for using storytelling, creatin

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Margaret Burke, founder of MB Law, about the importance of having a structured business development plan for long-term success. Margaret, who has decades of experience consulting with law firms, shares insights on how attorneys and professionals can create a simple yet effective plan to grow their business. She explains that many professionals neglect business development due to time constraints or perfectionism, but a well-executed plan can make client acquisition more consistent and strategic. Key topics include leveraging Google reviews, maintaining an active social media presence, and crafting a website that clearly communicates the value provided to clients. Margaret also discusses the importance of tracking and nurturing key relationships, staying in touch with referral sources, and setting aside time each week for business development activities. She shares practical strategies for making small, manageable improvements that lead to

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Val Madamba, regulatory lawyer turned presentation coach, about how professionals can craft engaging and effective business development presentations. Val shares insights from her experience as a former FDA, Big Law, and in-house lawyer, explaining how professionals can use presentations not just to inform, but to connect with and persuade their audience. She emphasizes that a well-structured presentation demonstrates expertise, builds credibility, and positions the speaker as the ideal partner for potential clients. Key topics include how to structure a presentation with a clear outcome in mind, the importance of storytelling in making legal and technical topics compelling, and strategies for tailoring content to different audiences, from general counsel to industry-specific conferences. Val also shares actionable steps such as developing a "story bank" to collect and refine relevant anecdotes, using audience research to shape messaging,

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Tina Solis, partner at Nixon Peabody, about the legal and ethical considerations attorneys must navigate when making a lateral move. Tina specializes in trade secrets, unfair competition, and professional responsibility issues, particularly when lawyers transition from one firm to another. She shares critical insights into the risks, contractual obligations, and best practices for making a smooth and compliant move. Key topics include understanding partnership and employment agreements, recognizing clawback provisions and financial implications, and navigating ethical rules regarding client communication. Tina also discusses the fiduciary responsibilities attorneys have to their current firms, common mistakes that can lead to legal disputes, and the proper procedures for notifying clients and colleagues. She highlights the importance of working with recruiters and ethics counsel to avoid missteps that could impact a lawyer’s career and rep

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Nick Hill, digital marketing expert and founder of MyConversation, about how professionals can turn cold emails into profitable business opportunities. Nick shares his insights on why cold outreach isn’t inherently annoying—it only feels that way when it’s done poorly. He explains that the key to successful cold emails is relevance, personalization, and strategic follow-ups that start conversations rather than push for immediate sales. Key topics include the importance of targeting the right audience, using high-quality data to ensure emails reach the correct recipients, and crafting messages with an "assumptive tone" to spark engagement. Nick also discusses the dangers of “proposing on the first date” in sales outreach and how professionals can instead build relationships through valuable content, insightful questions, and personalized messaging. He highlights the role of AI in optimizing outreach strategies and provides actionable steps

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Davina Frederick, business coach and founder of Wealthy Woman Lawyer, about how professionals can attract better clients by refining their marketing message and defining their ideal client profile. Davina shares insights on how law firm owners, particularly women, can scale their businesses by identifying the clients they truly want to work with—those who pay well, respect their time, and align with their values. She explains that professionals don’t have to tolerate difficult clients and can proactively shape their client base through intentional marketing and positioning. Key topics include how to determine what makes a client "better" based on financial viability, compatibility, and service alignment, shifting marketing messaging to attract ideal clients, and overcoming money mindset challenges that prevent professionals from charging what they’re worth. Davina also discusses leveraging automation, refining business processes, and build

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Bruce LaFetra, business development strategist and "The Client Whisperer," about why the traditional business development process is broken and how rainmakers can fix it. Bruce explains that professionals often focus too much on selling their expertise rather than understanding how their services improve a client’s business. He shares how shifting the focus from “what we do” to “how we help” can simplify business development, differentiate professionals from competitors, and attract more ideal clients. Key topics include the importance of thinking like your best clients, redefining referrals as a process rather than a one-time event, and creating alignment between business development messaging and client expectations. Bruce also discusses how law firms and professional service providers can improve their approach by engaging in deeper conversations with clients, identifying their real needs, and positioning themselves as trusted advisors

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Alay Yajnik, business development coach and founder of LinkedIn for Lawyers, about how professionals can leverage LinkedIn to grow their book of business. Alay explains that many attorneys and service professionals overlook LinkedIn as a business development tool, often seeing it only as a job search platform. He shares how professionals can use LinkedIn strategically to build relationships, generate referrals, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Key topics include defining a clear LinkedIn strategy, optimizing your profile for business development, and focusing on referral sources rather than direct client outreach. Alay highlights the importance of building an audience, engaging with targeted content, and maintaining consistent activity to stay top of mind with potential clients and referral partners. He also shares actionable steps such as segmenting connections, leveraging influencer relationships, and creatin

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Deborah Farone, legal marketing expert and author of Best Practices in Law Firm Business Development and Marketing, about how law firms can refine their marketing and business development strategies to stay competitive. Deborah shares insights from her extensive experience as a former CMO and consultant, highlighting the common pitfalls firms face when trying to generate new business and the importance of having a strategic, long-term approach. Key topics include why not all partners are naturally skilled at business development and how firms can provide the right training and support, the importance of role models in shaping a firm’s rainmaking culture, and how firms often jump into marketing tactics without a clear plan. Deborah also discusses the power of strategic networking, the role of business development training in law firm retreats, and how professionals can build and sustain valuable client relationships. This episode provides a

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, host Scott Love speaks with Frank Kitchen, professional speaker and workplace culture expert, about how organizations can create a work environment that stimulates productivity and profits. Frank, known as the “Mindset Master Chef,” shares his insights on crafting a workplace culture where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated to contribute at their highest levels. He emphasizes that culture is not just about leadership decisions but about fostering an environment where everyone can grow both personally and professionally. Key topics include defining workplace culture as an environment that stimulates growth, fostering collaboration between leadership and employees, and modeling behaviors that encourage contribution and engagement. Frank shares practical strategies for leaders to build trust, integrate new employees effectively, and retain top talent by focusing on development and mentorship. He also introduces the concept of “living fresh,” where organizatio