The SDR DiscoCall Podcast: For Brand New Sales Development Reps

Neil Bhuiyan
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The SDR DiscoCall Podcast takes you on a journey akin to the initial "Discovery-Call" phase of a sales cycle, commonly known as a "DiscoCall," where sales reps engage with first-time prospects in the tech industry to gather crucial insights within a concise timeframe. Hosted by Neil Bhuiyan, Founder of HappySelling.io, each episode invites a seasoned SDR (Sales Development Representative) from various companies, with a maximum of two years of experience, to share their unique insights. Through structured segments covering introductions, personal SDR anecdotes, and three key takeaways, listeners gain invaluable knowledge and strategies for navigating the dynamic world of tech sales. Now also available as a visually engaging 4k-video show on YouTube via HappySelling.io. Tune in and embark on a journey of discovery and growth in sales excellence.

  1. #122 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Henry Clayton

    4D AGO

    #122 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Henry Clayton

    In Episode 122 of the SDR DiscoCall Show, Neil Bhuiyan sits down with Henry Clayton, Principal SDR at Allego, to unpack the journey from customer service to tech sales and the mindset shifts required to succeed. Henry shares his transition from Screwfix into SaaS, navigating Allego’s evolution from Refract into a broader sales enablement platform, and the emotional intelligence required to thrive in high-pressure SDR environments. They explore mental health during the pandemic, the power of counselling, cold calling structure, LinkedIn virality, and why staying authentic matters more than copying top performers. Guest Links: Guest LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry--clayton/Guest’s Company: https://www.allego.com/ Key Takeaways: Emotional intelligence can be developed and sharpened through customer-facing rolesYou must make sales frameworks your own, not copy othersStructure in cold calls creates confidenceAsking permission before giving feedback builds trustCounselling and coaching can unlock self-awarenessThe pandemic reshaped career decisions for many SDRsLinkedIn visibility can amplify your voice, but authenticity sustains itThe SDR role is mentally demanding but can be deeply rewardingFun is essential for longevity in sales Chapters & Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to SDR DiscoCall Podcast 01:18 – Meet Henry Clayton: SDR at Allego 02:34 – Understanding Allego: A YouTube for Sales 03:31 – From Screwfix to SaaS 05:25 – Customer Service Skills That Translate to Sales 08:30 – Transitioning into Tech Sales 10:35 – Emotional Intelligence in Sales 12:07 – Pandemic & Mental Health 13:57 – Managing Diverse Teams 16:26 – Advice for Aspiring SDRs 19:32 – Seeking New Opportunities 21:46 – Finding Joy in Sales 28:02 – Transitioning Within Allego 33:44 – Viral LinkedIn Moment 53:57 – Creating Engaging Content 01:02:40 – Advice for New Sales Professionals 01:05:20 – Shoutouts 01:06:59 – Outro Soundbites: “The best way to grow is to understand yourself better.”“I love you on a cold call.”“Don’t change who you are.”

    1h 7m
  2. #121 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Kyan Burke

    FEB 17

    #121 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Kyan Burke

    In Episode 121 of the SDR DiscoCall Show, Neil Bhuiyan welcomes back Kyan Burke, Sales Manager at Capital on Tap, to explore the real transition from top performer to sales leader. Kyan shares an honest look at imposter syndrome, earning trust with former peers, and the difference between managing numbers and leading humans. Together, they unpack team dynamics, delegation, mindset, public speaking, and why great leadership is less about having answers and more about creating the space for others to find them. Guest Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyanburke/Company: https://www.capitalontap.com/enKyan’s Podcast: InnerQuota Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bgKygozguisAcwMkf1wq5?si=f0f149f826e74cbcKyan’s SDR DiscoCall YouTube Episode: Episode 80 (2023)Kyan’s SDR DiscoCall Podcast Episode: Episode 80 (2023) Key Takeaways: Leadership credibility is built through trust and transparencyYou don’t need all the answers; you need the right peopleLetting teams reach conclusions themselves creates buy-inImposter syndrome is common, especially when leading peersMindset directly impacts consistency and performanceStrong leaders balance process, people, and emotional intelligenceDifficult conversations are unavoidable and necessaryPublic speaking and content sharpen leadership influenceDiscipline and consistency support long-term performance Chapters & Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the SDR DiscoCall Show 01:39 - Kyan Burke: Journey in Tech Sales 04:45 - Transitioning from BDM to Sales Leadership 06:12 - The Importance of Team Dynamics and Leadership 10:15 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Leadership 13:24 - Understanding the Challenges of Sales Management 17:17 - Navigating the First Weeks as a New Leader 20:00 - Building Trust and Team Ethos 24:31 - Learning from Leadership Experiences 27:25 - Leadership and Team Dynamics 30:39 - Optimising Team Performance 33:31 - Navigating Difficult Conversations 37:12 - Wearing Multiple Hats as a Leader 42:33 - The Importance of Mindset in Leadership 52:04 - Outro Soundbites: “The best way to learn is by teaching others.”“You don’t have to be the fixer.”“What is the most important one right now?”

    53 min
  3. #120 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Matt Banks

    10/07/2025

    #120 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Matt Banks

    Matt Banks – Senior SDR, Salesfinity Summary: In this episode of the SDR DiscoCall Show, host Neil Bhuiyan sits down with Matt Banks, Senior SDR at Salesfinity, to explore how resilience, loss, and personal growth can shape a sales career. Matt shares his journey from hospitality to tech sales, opening up about challenges that tested his mental health and confidence. Together, they discuss how finding joy in work, building a personal brand, and embracing life’s impermanence can drive success in sales and life. Listener Discretion: This episode contains discussion of mental health, loss, and suicide. Support resources are listed below. Key Takeaways: Comfort in cold calling is essential for successPersonal growth often comes from overcoming adversityTransitioning from hospitality to sales can be transformativeLoss can lead to valuable life lessons and resilienceHow you respond to challenges defines your characterExperiences in hospitality shape interpersonal skillsFinding joy in work enhances performanceSelf-reflection is crucial for personal developmentBuilding a personal brand can open new opportunitiesEmbracing life’s impermanence motivates action Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the SDR DiscoCall Show 01:11 – Meet Matt Banks: The Guinness Guru 03:43 – Matt’s Journey: From Hospitality to Sales 11:04 – Life Lessons from Hospitality 19:38 – Responding vs Reacting: A Personal Story 21:55 – Navigating Life’s Challenges During COVID 25:58 – Coping with Loss and Heartbreak 28:38 – Finding Purpose After Trauma 33:53 – Transformation Through Sales and Personal Branding 40:51 – The Comfort Zone of Cold Calling 43:34 – Transforming Challenges into Opportunities 46:13 – Rediscovering Self-Confidence 49:12 – Advice for Aspiring Sales Professionals Soundbites: “The role of fun in work is essential.”“The evolution of a salesperson is a journey.”“Finding joy in work enhances performance.” Guest Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sdrofguinness/Company: https://www.salesfinity.ai/ Support Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. UK & Ireland: Samaritans - 116 123 / jo@samaritans.orgUSA & Canada: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Dial 988International: https://www.befrienders.org/Global: https://findahelpline.com/Mental Health America: https://mhanational.org/crisis-services/

    52 min
  4. #119 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Mia Kosoglow

    09/16/2025

    #119 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Mia Kosoglow

    Mia Kosoglow – Marketing Lead, Hyperbound Summary: In this episode of the SDR DiscoCall Show, host Neil Bhuiyan interviews Mia Kosoglow, the marketing lead at Hyperbound. They discuss Mia’s journey from sales to marketing, the importance of confidence and authenticity in both fields, and the value of self-reflection in career choices. Mia shares her experiences at Outreach and Armada, highlighting the skills she gained and how they translate to her current role in marketing. The conversation emphasises the significance of finding joy in one’s work and the power of networking to create opportunities. Key Takeaways: Sales experience is valuable for a career in marketingBuilding confidence in sales can lead to success in other areasNetworking and genuine conversations can open new opportunitiesIt’s important to trust your gut when something doesn’t feel rightFinding joy in your work is crucial for long-term satisfactionSelf-reflection can help identify what truly brings happinessAuthenticity in communication fosters better connectionsTransitioning from sales to marketing can leverage existing skillsEmbracing challenges can lead to personal and professional growthCreating a supportive work environment is essential for employee happinessTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the SDR Disco Call Show 01:28 – Meet Mia Kosoglow: Background and Role at Hyperbound 02:20 – Understanding Hyperbound: AI in Sales Training 03:13 – Mia’s Personal Interests and Hobbies 05:09 – Mia’s Journey into Sales: Early Influences 07:49 – The Impact of Family on Career Choices 10:11 – Sales Education: The Value of a Sales Degree 11:30 – Sales Training: Role Plays and Competitions 14:28 – Internship Experience at Outreach 16:54 – Overcoming Rejection: The Power of Grit in Sales 20:57 – The Structure of Success in Sales 22:15 – The Competitive Spirit: Winning vs. Enjoying 23:59 – Building Confidence and Overcoming Challenges 27:21 – Aha Moments: Learning from Mistakes 32:19 – Transitioning to a Founding Role at Armada 39:47 – Realisations: Enjoyment vs. Skill in Sales 40:33 – Finding Joy in Work and Hobbies 43:46 – The Transition from Sales to Marketing 50:03 – Embracing Authenticity in Career Choices 55:51 – The SDR to Marketing Journey 01:00:44 – Advice for Future Generations Soundbites: “Confidence is key in sales.”“Let me cook!”“Trust your gut.”Guest Links: LinkedIn: Mia KosoglowCompany: Hyperbound

    1h 2m
  5. #118 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – James Buckley

    09/09/2025

    #118 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – James Buckley

    Summary In this episode of the SDR DiscoCall Show, Neil Bhuiyan welcomes back James Buckley, a seasoned sales professional and content creator. They discuss James’s journey in sales, the evolution of content creation, and the challenges of engaging audiences on platforms like LinkedIn. The conversation dives into authenticity, algorithm shifts, relationship building, and how sales and marketing can truly align. James shares practical tips for overcoming fear in content creation, reframing budget conversations, and mastering discovery questions. This is a grounded, honest look at sales in 2025. Key Takeaways: Sales development remains the foundation of tech sales successContent creation fuels personal branding and credibilityAuthenticity resonates more than polished perfectionEngagement strategies drive reach and opportunitiesLinkedIn’s algorithm rewards relevance and interactionAI is now analysing video content for context and engagementFollower counts don’t equal revenueSales and marketing alignment is essentialDiscovery is continuous — not just one call. Recognition and appreciation strengthen relationships Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the SDR Disco Call Show 00:58 - Meet James Buckley: Sales Insights and Journey 02:13 - James Buckley’s Sales Experience and Evolution 04:40 - Reflecting on Personal Growth and Health Journey 07:39 - Controversial Topics in Sales and Social Media 09:04 - LinkedIn Algorithm Changes and Content Visibility 12:05 - The Role of Ghostwriting in Content Creation 15:34 - Understanding Goals in Content Creation 18:33 - The Importance of Engagement and Relationships 21:58 - Life as an Algorithm: Attracting Like-Minded People 24:57 - Value in Sales: Teaching Without Selling 28:20 - Content as a Pathway to Connection and Sales 29:32 - The Power of Content in Sales 31:59 - Building Confidence in Content Creation 35:24 - Overcoming the Fear of Imperfection 38:10 - The Role of Marketing in Sales Content 40:53 - Aligning Sales and Marketing for Success 48:52 - Bridging Sales and Marketing 51:09 - The Importance of Discovery in Sales 53:36 - Navigating Budget Conversations 57:29 - The Balance of Pipeline and Forecast 01:02:13 - The Continuous Nature of Discovery 01:03:57 - Giving Flowers: A Generational Perspective Guest Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamessaywhatsalesbuckley/Resources from James https://gosellbetter.com/Happysellingcoldcallguide1https://gosellbetter.com/Happysellingcoldcallguide2https://gosellbetter.com/happysellingsignalsguide1https://gosellbetter.com/happysellingsignalsguide2https://gosellbetter.com/happysellingpracticalprospectingguide

    1h 15m
  6. #117 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Sriharsha (Sai) Guduguntla

    09/02/2025

    #117 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Sriharsha (Sai) Guduguntla

    Guest: Sriharsha (Sai) Guduguntla – Co-Founder & CEO @ Hyperbound Summary: In this episode of the SDR Disco Call Show, host Neil Bhuiyan welcomes Sriharsha (Sai) Guduguntla, CEO and co-founder of Hyperbound, an AI sales role-play and coaching platform. They discuss Sai’s journey from a software engineering intern to a successful entrepreneur in Silicon Valley, the challenges of being an immigrant, and the importance of practice in sales. Sai shares insights on the role of AI in sales training, the unique features of Hyperbound, and the value of objective feedback in improving sales skills. The conversation emphasises the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the fast-paced tech industry. This episode is supported by Hyperbound – the AI-driven role play and coaching platform for sales teams. – Start your free trial: hyperbound.ai Key Takeaways: Sai has been working in AI for over a decadeHyperbound allows salespeople to practice role plays with AIThe importance of personal experience in entrepreneurshipAI tools should address specific business problemsObjective feedback from AI can be more effective than human feedbackRole play is essential for developing sales skillsThe immigrant experience shapes entrepreneurial journeysContinuous learning is crucial in tech salesHyperbound aims to revolutionise sales training Success in sales requires both technical and soft skills Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the SDR Disco Call Show 01:39 – Meet the Guest: Sriharsha Guduguntla 03:05 – Understanding Hyperbound: AI in Sales Training 04:21 – Sai’s Journey: From Intern to Entrepreneur 09:58 – Growing Up in Silicon Valley: A Unique Perspective 11:18 – The Drive for Entrepreneurship: A Personal Story 17:46 – Navigating Parental Expectations in Entrepreneurship 22:06 – Building Confidence in Technical and Sales Conversations 26:48 – The Journey of Building and Pivoting 28:57 – The Future of Sales and AI 32:48 – Understanding AI’s Role in Sales 36:38 – Hyperbound: Revolutionising Sales Training 41:51 – Real-Time Feedback and Improvement 48:26 – The Value of Role-Playing in Sales 53:44 – Advice to My Younger Self Soundbites: “This is a long time coming.”“I graduated from college in 2022.”“I built an app that went viral.” Guest Links: LinkedIn: Sriharsha (Sai) Guduguntla Company: HyperboundThis Episode is Supported by Hyperbound – Start your free trial:hyperbound.ai

    58 min
  7. #116 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Muireann Brennan

    08/26/2025

    #116 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Muireann Brennan

    Guest Links: LinkedIn: :Muireann Brennan In this episode of the SDR Disco Call Show, host Neil Bhuiyan interviews Muireann Brennan, an enterprise account executive at Protex AI. Muireann shares her unique journey from a healthcare background to tech sales, emphasising the importance of mentorship, emotional intelligence, and building relationships in sales. She discusses her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges faced in the healthcare system, and how these experiences shaped her career path. The conversation underscores the importance of striking a balance between personal passions and professional responsibilities, providing valuable insights for young professionals in the sales industry. Key Takeaways: Muireann transitioned from a healthcare background to tech salesShe emphasises the importance of mentorship in career developmentBalancing work with personal passions is crucial for well-beingHer experience during COVID-19 shaped her views on healthcareMuireann advocates for open communication and feedback in mentorshipShe highlights the significance of emotional intelligence in salesBuilding relationships is key to successful sales interactionsPersistence in outreach can lead to unexpected opportunitiesMuireann’s journey reflects resilience and adaptabilityShe encourages young professionals to seek mentorship activelyTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the SDR Disco Call Show 01:35 – Meet Muireann Brennan: Background and Current Role 02:41 – Understanding Protex AI and Its Impact 04:03 – Balancing Work and Personal Life 07:12 – Muireann’s Journey into Sales and Healthcare 07:31 – Transition from Pharmacy to Nursing 09:37 – Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic 13:48 – Activism and Advocacy in Healthcare 21:00 – Exploring Commercial Roles and Future Aspirations 23:26 – Starting the Journey: From Nursing to Sales 26:13 – Learning the Ropes: Mentorship and Training in Sales 28:17 – Navigating Cold Calling: Overcoming Fears and Building Confidence 31:32 – The Human Element: Building Relationships in Sales 36:41 – The Importance of Mentorship: Learning from Experience 39:52 – Finding the Right Mentor: Key Considerations 47:06 – Shoutouts and Acknowledgements: Gratitude in the Journey Soundbites: “It’s not a vocation. It’s a job.”“Everyone is human. Everyone makes mistakes.”“If you don’t ask, you don’t get.”

    59 min
  8. #115 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Janie Gammans

    08/19/2025

    #115 The SDR DiscoCall Podcast – Janie Gammans

    Guest Links: LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlgammans/ Guest: Janie Gammans – Senior Manager, Sales Development – EMEA, Reward Gateway Summary: In this episode of the SDR DiscoCall Show, host Neil Bhuiyan sits down with Janie Gammans, a Sales Development Manager with a vibrant and unconventional career journey. From music journalism and event organising to sales leadership, Janie’s story is powered by curiosity, bravery, and a genuine love of fun in work. They dive deep into what it means to be a founding SDR, the challenges of market education, navigating risk, and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. Janie also shares how embracing vulnerability and maintaining a beginner’s mindset can fuel growth, both personally and professionally. Key Takeaways: Passions outside of work enrich professional performanceCuriosity is a major driver of career exploration and sales successFun at work is essential for long-term resultsFounding SDRs help shape sales teams and company cultureEducating the market is crucial when launching in new regionsLegal and cultural nuances impact selling internationallyVulnerability can strengthen leadership credibilityA beginner’s mindset keeps you adaptableDocument your wins and lessons for future growthTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the SDR DiscoCall Show 01:16 – Meet Janie: A Colourful Career Journey 03:41 – Janie’s Early Passion for Music and Events 04:39 – From Music to Archaeology: A Unique Path 07:45 – Transitioning into Sales: The SDR Experience 10:56 – Curiosity and Bravery: The Drive Behind Janie’s Journey 13:36 – Reflections on Youth and Fearlessness 19:42 – The Evolution of Fun in Sales 23:53 – Practising Sales: The Importance of Being in the Trenches 25:45 – The Journey of Sales Performance 26:43 – Coaching and Mentorship in Sales 28:17 – The Mindset of Continuous Improvement 29:27 – Human-Led Leadership and Neurodiversity 30:44 – The Importance of a Beginner’s Mindset 35:02 – The Role of Founding SDRs 37:49 – Navigating the Challenges of Founding SDR Roles 42:59 – Learning from Founding SDR Experiences 53:45 – Embracing Vulnerability in Sales Calls 56:44 – The Journey of a Founding SDR 59:48 – The Importance of Autonomy and Curiosity 01:03:23 – Documenting Your Achievements 01:07:24 – The Power of Storytelling in Sales 01:15:04 – Advice for Future SDRs: Fearlessness, Curiosity, and Bravery

    1h 18m
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About

The SDR DiscoCall Podcast takes you on a journey akin to the initial "Discovery-Call" phase of a sales cycle, commonly known as a "DiscoCall," where sales reps engage with first-time prospects in the tech industry to gather crucial insights within a concise timeframe. Hosted by Neil Bhuiyan, Founder of HappySelling.io, each episode invites a seasoned SDR (Sales Development Representative) from various companies, with a maximum of two years of experience, to share their unique insights. Through structured segments covering introductions, personal SDR anecdotes, and three key takeaways, listeners gain invaluable knowledge and strategies for navigating the dynamic world of tech sales. Now also available as a visually engaging 4k-video show on YouTube via HappySelling.io. Tune in and embark on a journey of discovery and growth in sales excellence.

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