Deals with Heels

Debra Bowers
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Deals with Heels is a leadership and business podcast for entrepreneurs, executives, and sales leaders who want clarity, confidence, and sustainable growth. Hosted by Debra Bowers, the show explores leadership decision-making, sales psychology, communication, and the human side of business through real conversations and practical insight. Each episode helps listeners lead better, sell with integrity, and build a business that works for real life.

  1. Homelessness to Hope: The Power of Community Collaboration with Meghan Mueller

    13H AGO

    Homelessness to Hope: The Power of Community Collaboration with Meghan Mueller

    Summary In this episode of Deals with Heals, host Debra Bowers engages in a profound conversation with Megan Mueller, President and CEO of the Oklahoma City Homeless Alliance. They discuss the complexities of leadership in addressing homelessness, the importance of curiosity and collaboration, and the transformative power of art in healing. Megan shares her journey from intern to CEO, emphasizing the need for sustainable systems and community involvement. The conversation highlights Oklahoma City's unique approach to homelessness, the role of social enterprises, and the significance of breaking down stigma to foster understanding and support. The episode concludes with insights on preventing burnout in nonprofit leadership and the importance of connection in driving change. Key Topics Megan Mueller's leadership journey and growth within the Homeless AllianceBuilding trust, loyalty, and culture from internship to executive leadershipThe power of leading with curiosity and humility in social work and community impactIntegration of art therapy programs to foster identity and dignity among homeless individualsCreating systems over stories: sustainable, system-level solutions to homelessnessCollaboration and partnership across nonprofit, government, and private sectorsSocial enterprises like curbside magazine, flowers, and apparel as pathways to employmentBuilding community systems to destigmatize homelessness and foster mutual understandingThe importance of cross-sector alignment, common ground, and shared goalsChallenges and opportunities in scaling community-led initiativesPreventing burnout by embracing emotion, vulnerability, and community supportTime Stamps 00:00 - Introduction to Megan Mueller and her leadership impact01:06 - Megan’s journey from intern to CEO and building a trusted organizational culture03:30 - Leadership lessons: confidence, curiosity, and leading with humility08:52 - Transition from individual to system-level thinking in addressing homelessness12:37 - The role of art programs in trauma processing and identity rebuilding14:13 - Building sustainable systems with community collaboration and shared goals15:05 - The significance of integrated services at the Westtown Resource Campus17:05 - Why Oklahoma City’s approach is unique and lessons for other communities21:16 - The importance of shared trauma and local resilience in community response22:38 - The power of collaboration, coordination, and preventing territorialism24:01 - Social enterprise models: curbside magazine, flowers, and apparel as employment pathways28:38 - Reducing stigma through neighborly interactions and individual connections32:18 - Addressing the root causes of homelessness and systemic issues36:48 - Overcoming friction: uncertainty, fear, and the need for shared understanding39:07 - Engaging business and civic leaders through economic and human benefits43:38 - The importance of systemic, sustainable solutions over charity alone44:11 - The role of leadership in building ecosystems for long-term impact45:32 - Simple steps for communities to start building their own collaborative systems55:55 - Megan’s advice for communities starting to tackle homelessness more effectively58:41 - The future of the Homeless Alliance with strategic growth and partnership60:18 - How community members can support and destigmatize homelessness62:03 - Final thoughts on leadership, community impact, and the importance of connection https://homelessalliance.org/https://curbsideokc.org/https://homelessalliance.org/initiatives/key-to-home Connect with Megan Mueller:https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganmueller/ https://twitter.com/MeganMueller Connect with our Amazing Host Debrahttps://hexagonmedia.net/ Human Sales Playbook – Sell With Confidence, Connection & Humanity https://thegrowthvanguard.com/free-ebook Thank you for listening! Please like, Share and Tell Your friends!

    58 min
  2. Authentic Branding & Leadership Across Generations with Sarah Ashley

    MAR 10

    Authentic Branding & Leadership Across Generations with Sarah Ashley

    Summary Discover how younger entrepreneurs like Sarah Ashley are redefining leadership, authenticity, and freedom in business and life. This episode explores the power of personal and brand voice, the role of AI as a thought partner, and living without limits to foster creativity and purpose. Key Topics The significance of discovering and owning your authentic voice in personal and business contextsHow brand promises shape perception and the importance of aligning voice with valuesStrategies for cultivating confidence to stand in your voice amid societal and business pressuresThe impact of generational perspectives, especially Gen Z, on redefining success and leadershipNavigating the balance between structure and flexibility to boost creativity and productivityThe role of AI tools as thought partners, enhancing thinking without replacing expertiseLiving without limits: How questioning traditional milestones opens doors to freedom and fulfillmentPractical tools for organization and maintaining creative flow, including project management appsLeadership ideals for the next generation: intentional, thoughtful, and human-centeredThe importance of curiosity and openness in connecting across generations and fostering growthTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to voice, integrity, and online identity02:00 - When did Sarah start realizing her voice's impact?04:00 - The journey from self-discovery to professional brand voice06:00 - Authenticity in personal and brand expression08:00 - Overcoming the pressure to sound "older" or more established10:00 - Misconceptions about Gen Z entrepreneurs from older generations12:00 - Finding balance: strategy vs. authentic voice in branding14:00 - How AI acts as a thought partner, not a replacement16:00 - Using AI for brainstorming and ideation effectively18:00 - The boundaries and boundaries of automation and AI in business20:00 - The fallacy of AI replacing marketing expertise22:00 - The importance of quality prompting for better AI output24:00 - Living without limits: redefining success beyond traditional milestones26:00 - The mindset shift: can vs. can't — and the power of belief28:00 - Personal reflections on resilience and living freely after hardship30:00 - Societal shifts and economic factors influencing perceptions of freedom32:00 - Tools for structure and organization that support creative freedom34:00 - Timing and environment's influence on creative energy36:00 - Reconnecting with childhood creativity and discovering new outlets38:00 - The future of leadership: intentional, fun, human-centered40:00 - Cultivating curiosity and openness across generations42:00 - Connecting with Sarah Ashley and resourcesConnect with Sarah https://www.instagram.com/saraheashley https://www.instagram.com/portalcopycohttps://clickup.com If this episode resonated with you, please Like our show and leave us a review! Check out Debra's free resource: Human Sales Playbook – Sell With Confidence, Connection & Humanity Download it for free here: https://thegrowthvanguard.com/free-ebookCheck out Debra's marketing work at https://www.hexagonmedia.net Thank you for listening! Please check out our other episodes and share with your friends!

    39 min
  3. From Side Hustle to Success: Reinventing with Integrity with Rachel Minion

    MAR 3

    From Side Hustle to Success: Reinventing with Integrity with Rachel Minion

    Summary In this conversation, Debra Bowers and Rachel Minion discuss the challenges and opportunities of building a business after a crisis, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, focus, and setting boundaries. Rachel shares her journey of reinvention, the cost of being authentic in business, and the significance of prioritizing tasks under pressure. They also explore the importance of understanding client needs, building demand, and the role of effective marketing in achieving sustainable growth. Takeaways Building a business during a crisis is challenging, but the real work begins after.Authenticity in marketing can lead to stronger client relationships.Being direct and blunt can be a strength in business.Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining authenticity.Prioritizing tasks helps in managing focus under pressure.Understanding client needs is essential for effective marketing.Sales should be viewed as a transfer of enthusiasm.Buzzwords can distract from the core message of a business.Building demand is a critical part of the sales cycle.Leadership is about making a lasting impact. Chapters 00:00 Reinvention After Crisis 02:42 Authenticity in Business 05:40 Navigating Corporate Politics 08:25 The Cost of Authenticity 11:21 Setting Boundaries in Business 14:02 Prioritizing Focus Amidst Opportunities 16:48 The Big Three: A Framework for Success 19:56 Targeted Marketing Strategies 22:35 Building Demand vs. Branding 25:33 Creating Lasting Impact 28:19 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Get Rachel's free resources Rockstarr Marketing Playbooks - available here: https://rockstarrandmoon.com/playbooks/ Connect with Rachel here: rachel@rockstarrandmoon.com OR https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelminion Selling doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable, scripted, or “salesy.” The Human Sales Playbook is a practical, human-centered guide that helps professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders communicate their value with clarity and confidence—without pressure, manipulation, or outdated sales tactics.Download Debra's Free Resource The Human Sales Playbook here: https://thegrowthvanguard.com/free-ebook If you learned something from this episode. If it changed how you look at marketing and leadership, please leave us a review. Like the episode and share with your friends. Until next time Stand Strong in Your Power, especially when it gets uncomfortable. Thank you for Listening!

    37 min
  4. The Surprising Power of Follow-Up That Builds Trust and Closes Deals with Wanda Allen

    FEB 17

    The Surprising Power of Follow-Up That Builds Trust and Closes Deals with Wanda Allen

    Summary - In this episode, we dive deep into the art of follow-up with sales expert Wanda Allen. Follow-up is often seen as a daunting task, but Wanda reveals how it can be transformed into a powerful tool for building trust and closing deals. Through engaging stories and practical advice, she uncovers the emotional barriers that hold us back, such as the fear of rejection and the misconception of being pushy. Wanda shares her journey from struggling in sales to mastering the follow-up process, emphasizing the importance of confidence and professionalism. She explains how effective communication, whether through phone calls or voice messages, can create authentic connections that lead to lasting relationships and referrals. Key Topics: The true purpose of follow-up: service, relationship, trust, and demand buildingCommon misconceptions about follow-up and how fear sabotages effortsEmotional barriers: fear of rejection, pushiness, and how to reframe mindsetThe importance of confidence and professionalism in follow-up communicationEffective strategies: phone calls vs emails, using voice messages, and multi-channel approachesThe role of systems and CRM tools to stay consistent and avoid burnoutBuilding and maintaining relationships post-sale to encourage repeat business and referralsPractical tips for clear messaging, setting purpose, and asking for specific next stepsThe importance of persistence: contact frequency and managing prospect response expectationsPersonal stories: lessons learned from neglecting follow-up and turning failure into successChapters - 00:00 - Why follow-up is the most misunderstood part of sales00:42 - The real purpose of follow-up: service, trust, and demand building01:46 - Common misconceptions: follow-up as pressure or pushiness02:47 - How follow-up develops relationship and trust03:13 - Building demand and preparation through consistent follow-up04:43 - Emotional friction in follow-up: fear of rejection and pushiness05:12 - Overcoming the mindset barriers: reframing follow-up as opportunity06:27 - Why follow-up feels uncomfortable and how to shift perspective07:30 - The importance of accepting rejection and valuing referrals08:42 - Stories we tell ourselves that justify avoiding follow-up09:43 - The power of persistence even after a "no"10:52 - How building genuine relationships leads to future opportunities12:35 - The act of professional follow-up as a mark of integrity13:00 - Effective follow-up communication: the power of voice calls14:35 - Using voice messages and the pitfalls of over-automating16:32 - Multi-channel communication: respecting preferences and human connection18:21 - Keeping messages concise and impactful19:30 - Clarity in purpose: what to communicate in each follow-up21:34 - Building trust by asking for help and creating human touchpoints23:36 - The statistic: most sales occur after multiple contact attempts24:04 - The danger of quitting too early and losing pipeline momentum25:21 - The importance of relaunching relationships with warm contacts28:25 - How leadership perspectives shape follow-up strategies29:58 - Common mindset mistakes: neglecting follow-up as a priority32:09 - Balancing automation with genuine relationship-building33:12 - The value of relationship management beyond closing34:36 - Maintaining connections with past clients and referral sources37:19 - Resources and tools for mastering follow-up, including a free assessment and challenge37:48 - How to connect with Wanda for ongoing support and coaching38:29 - Free resource: The Human Sales Playbook to boost confidence and trustYou can connect with Wanda and book a free follow-up assessment at https://www.followupsalesstrategies.com/ And From Debra, our host: Selling doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable, scripted, or “salesy.” Download her free resource The Human Sales Playbook here: https://thegrowthvanguard.com/free-ebook

    39 min
  5. Why Chasing Visibility Is Dead—Focus on Demand and Trust Instead- with Debra Bowers

    FEB 10

    Why Chasing Visibility Is Dead—Focus on Demand and Trust Instead- with Debra Bowers

    Summary In this conversation, Debra Bowers discusses the critical role of trust in sales and marketing, emphasizing that demand building is essential for creating genuine connections with potential clients. She explores the concept of the trust gap, where visibility does not equate to demand, and outlines practical steps for building trust and demand through consistent messaging, resonating with the audience, and demonstrating care. Bowers also highlights the importance of patience in the sales process, as trust takes time to develop. Takeaways Trust is essential for effective sales.Demand building is about preparation, not just promotion.Different buying personalities require different approaches to trust.Visibility does not equal demand; real connections are necessary.Sales is a transfer of trust, not just enthusiasm.Consistency in messaging builds trust over time.Resonating with your audience is crucial for demand building.Proof of care is necessary to demonstrate genuine interest.Stop chasing virality; focus on building familiarity.Trust compounds over time; be patient in the sales process. Chapters 00:00 - Why trust is the true currency in content marketing00:32 - Demand as preparation, not just promotion01:09 - The farming analogy for demand building02:11 - How to nurture relationships with prospects03:09 - The importance of patience and timing in demand building04:20 - Recognizing different buyer personality types and trust levels07:11 - The concept of the trust gap: attention vs. trust07:40 - Why visibility doesn’t equal demand09:07 - Listening for signs of the trust gap in your content performance10:33 - Symptoms of being in the trust gap and how to identify them12:01 - Building demand through trust: creating human connection13:00 - Transfer of enthusiasm and the role of genuine engagement14:50 - The three pillars of trust: consistency, resonance, proof of care18:47 - The importance of demonstrating care authentically19:19 - Actionable tips: shift from chasing virality to building familiarity20:17 - Speaking to the moments before the sale for better demand21:16 - Patience as a key factor in trust development Resources & Links: Find out More about Debra's work with Demand Building on Hexagon Media's website https://www.hexagonmedia.net If you’ve ever struggled to talk about what you do, avoided selling altogether, or felt anxious when money enters the conversation, this playbook will help you approach sales in a way that actually feels like you. Download the Human Sales Playbook https://www.thegrowthvanguard.com/free-ebookConnect with Debra Bowers:https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-bowers/ https://www.instagram.com/debra444bowers/ If you enjoyed our show, please leave us a review! We would love to hear from you! email us at Deals@dealswithheels.com

    21 min
  6. How Inner Freedom Is the Key to Unlocking True Leadership Potential-with Regina Huber

    FEB 3

    How Inner Freedom Is the Key to Unlocking True Leadership Potential-with Regina Huber

    Summary In this conversation, Debra Bowers and Regina Huber explore the intricate relationship between freedom and leadership. They discuss the costs associated with leadership, the illusion of freedom in entrepreneurship, and the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. The dialogue emphasizes the need for vulnerability, the impact of childhood conditioning, and the significance of creating a supportive team environment. Ultimately, they highlight the role of energy and humanity in effective leadership. Takeaways Many leaders appear successful but feel constrained inside.Entrepreneurship can lead to new forms of imprisonment.True freedom is an internal state, not just external circumstances.Right and wrong are subjective; perspectives vary.Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.Vulnerability can empower leaders and teams.Emotional regulation is key to personal growth.Childhood conditioning affects adult emotional responses.Creating a supportive team environment fosters collaboration.Energy and authenticity are vital in leadership. Chapters 00:00 The Cost of Freedom in Leadership 02:44 Success Without Freedom: The Entrepreneurial Trap 05:40 Inner Freedom vs. External Constraints 08:32 The Illusion of Right and Wrong 11:16 The Power of Perspective in Leadership 13:58 Authenticity and Self-Awareness in Leadership 16:34 Emotional Regulation and Leadership 19:35 Freedom vs. Avoidance: Understanding Emotions 22:15 The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Leadership 25:03 Creating a Trusting Environment in Teams 28:07 The Role of Energy in Leadership 30:42 Humanity in Leadership: Embracing Imperfection 33:31 Conclusion and Resources As the CEO of TRANSFORM YOUR PERFORMANCE, Transformational Leadership & Freedom Coach, Speaker and Author Regina Huber drives bold, heart-centered leadership. She helps her clients become THRIVING LEADERS with THRIVING TEAMS by leveling up their leadership of themselves and their teams, while keeping stress levels low and energy high. With eclectic experience on 5 continents, she guides her clients to recognize their own genius and potential, and to create the work and overall life that's right for them – while experiencing true freedom & power - in 4 languages. Get Regina's CREATE YOUR FREAKIN' AMAZING LIFE Template: https://transformyourperformance.com/freakinamazinglife Contact Regina https://transformyourperformance.com/sociallinks Learn more about our show on our website ⁠https://www.dealswithheels.com⁠Our Amazing host, Debra Bowers, offers strategy and media through her agency Hexagon Media. Find out more at ⁠https://www.hexagonmedia.net⁠Download the Human Sales PlaybookSelling doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable, scripted, or “salesy.” The Human Sales Playbook is a practical, human-centered guide for professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who want to communicate their value with confidence and integrity—without pressure or manipulation.Inside the playbook, you’ll learn how to:•Build confidence before sales conversations•Understand different buying personalities•Communicate your value clearly and simply•Create trust and connection that leads to natural yeses•Sell ideas, services, or expertise without feeling pushyDownload the playbook here:⁠ https://www.thegrowthvanguard.com/free-ebook⁠Thank you for Listening! Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave us a review! Please Like, Share and Subscribe! Your Support is Important to us!

    38 min
  7. The Transformative Power of Near-Death Experiences with Holly Porter

    JAN 27

    The Transformative Power of Near-Death Experiences with Holly Porter

    Summary In this conversation, Debra Bowers and Holly Porter explore the profound changes in leadership and personal purpose that can arise from near-death experiences. Holly shares her journey through COVID-19, the lessons learned about resilience, and the importance of surrendering to one's true calling. They discuss the Shift Framework, which emphasizes surrender, hope, intuition, faith, and transformation as essential components of personal growth. The conversation highlights the responsibility that comes with influence and the importance of staying true to one's path while navigating life's challenges. Takeaways Success is defined by happiness, not money.Near-death experiences can lead to profound personal transformation.It's okay to not be okay; vulnerability is a strength.Family support is crucial during tough times.Resilience is built through facing challenges head-on.Surrendering control can lead to greater clarity and purpose.Hope is a constant, even in the darkest times.Intuition plays a key role in decision-making.Focus on what you want, not what you fear.Transformation requires both surrender and action. Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Welcome00:03:00 - Defining Success and Leadership00:09:00 - Near-Death Experience and Insights00:18:00 - Surrender and Personal Growth00:27:00 - Intuition and Decision-Making00:36:00 - Resilience and Overcoming Adversity00:45:00 - Family, Faith, and Transformation00:54:00 - Conclusion and Contact InformationHolly Porter is a powerhouse serial entrepreneur, retreat strategist, and the visionary founder of Retreat RnR. A 15-time best-selling author and award-winning speaker, Holly brings decades of experience in events, real estate, and personal transformation. She empowers purpose-driven leaders to design impactful retreats and step into their highest calling with purpose, presence, and passion. You can learn more about Holly on her website https://hollyporter.com/ Reach out to Holly via email at holly@hollyporter.com We want to hear from you! Leave a comment about this episode! Learn more about our show on our website https://www.dealswithheels.com Our Amazing host, Debra Bowers, offers strategy and media through her agency Hexagon Media. Find out more at https://www.hexagonmedia.net Download the Human Sales Playbook Selling doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable, scripted, or“salesy.” The Human Sales Playbook is a practical, human-centered guidefor professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who want to communicatetheir value with confidence and integrity—without pressure or manipulation. Inside the playbook, you’ll learn how to: Build confidence before sales conversations Understand different buying personalities Communicate your value clearly and simply Create trust and connection that leads to natural yeses Sell ideas, services, or expertise without feeling pushy Download the playbook here: https://www.thegrowthvanguard.com/free-ebook Please Like, Share and Subscribe to our Podcast!

    40 min
  8. Leading with Presence: A New Paradigm with Arlene Cohen-Miller

    JAN 20

    Leading with Presence: A New Paradigm with Arlene Cohen-Miller

    ## Summary In this episode of "Deals with Heals," host Debra Bowers engages in a profound conversation with Arlene Cohen Miller, an attorney and coach, about negotiating and leading from presence rather than pressure. They explore the challenges women face in maintaining strong boundaries without guilt and accessing real power without disconnecting from their authentic selves. Arlene shares her journey from law to coaching, emphasizing the importance of active listening and presence in both personal and professional relationships. The discussion delves into societal conditioning, the inner critic, and the significance of self-care and self-love in leadership. Takeaways Negotiate and lead from presence, not pressure. Strong boundaries can be maintained without guilt. Real power comes from authenticity, not disconnection. Active listening transforms relationships. Societal conditioning affects women's leadership styles. Self-care and self-love are crucial for effective leadership. The inner critic can be turned into an inner coach. Women can support each other by modeling positive behavior. Fear-based boundaries differ from strength-based ones. Awareness and self-reflection are key to personal growth. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Deals with Heals 00:00:00 Negotiating from Presence 00:00:00 Journey from Law to Coaching 00:00:00 Societal Conditioning and Leadership 00:00:01 The Inner Critic and Self-Care 00:00:01 Empowering Women through Support To find out more about Arlene's Motivational Talk and Workshops - Negotiating from the Heart: A New Path to Confidence, Clarity & Calm Assurance Visit her website https://www.jewelconsultancy.com/ Reach out to Arlene at 720-936.2634 arlene1@jewelconsultancy.com Learn more about our show and our Amazing Host, Debra Bowers on our website https://www.dealswithheels.comFind out more about Debra's marketing services on Hexagon Media's website https://www.hexagonmedia.net Download the Human Sales Playbook Selling doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable, scripted, or “salesy.” The Human Sales Playbook is a practical, human-centered guide for professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who want to communicate their value with confidence and integrity—without pressure or manipulation. Inside the playbook, you’ll learn how to: Build confidence before sales conversations Understand different buying personalities Communicate your value clearly and simply Create trust and connection that leads to natural yeses Sell ideas, services, or expertise without feeling pushy Download here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MCXvSt6432T52j1BCbAV0htMJnj14OcG/view?usp=drive_linkThank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review. The Best way to Support our podcast is to share, tell your friends, like and subscribe! One small act from you can make a big difference! Thank you!

    41 min
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About

Deals with Heels is a leadership and business podcast for entrepreneurs, executives, and sales leaders who want clarity, confidence, and sustainable growth. Hosted by Debra Bowers, the show explores leadership decision-making, sales psychology, communication, and the human side of business through real conversations and practical insight. Each episode helps listeners lead better, sell with integrity, and build a business that works for real life.

Information

  • Creator
    Debra Bowers
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    110
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Debra Bowers
  • Show Website
    Deals with Heels