Relationships Rule

Janice Porter

Imagine that 68% of our clients leave because they feel we don’t care. Then visualize having authentic heart-based retention strategies, proven to minimize client losses, while organically generating a substantial number of loyal clients through referrals. Catch a glimpse of how Janice opens a conversation by applying her fine-tuned curiosity. Notice how genuinely interested she is in building a relationship with her guests – heart-based business owners and entrepreneurs. In mere minutes, guests generously share their most sweet and powerful retention systems that you can adopt today! As a seasoned relationship marketing specialist, Janice invites us to listen in weekly, as she reveals how to nurture and build relationships in real-time. The Relationships Rule podcast’s aim, is to help you naturally ease your networking fears, so you can adopt strategies that amplify your client list, because the facts are, that today, success is built on a foundation of strong relationships. You can relax now, knowing you can activate your relationship marketing plan, by simply tuning in to Relationships Rule each week.

  1. 1D AGO

    What Is the One Word Philosophy and How Can It Transform Your Life?

    In this episode of Relationships Rule, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jimmy Page, leadership expert, author, and co-creator of the powerful One Word philosophy. Jimmy has spent decades helping leaders, teams, and organizations improve culture, performance, and purpose. Through his work with athletes, businesses, and ministries around the world, he has trained more than 100,000 leaders and continues to inspire people to live what he calls an unstoppable life. During our conversation, Jimmy shared how the simple idea of choosing one guiding word for the year can bring clarity and focus to every area of life. Instead of setting long lists of goals that often fade away, the One Word approach helps people align their decisions, habits, and relationships around a single intention. We also talked about the importance of relationships in shaping our lives and leadership. One of my favorite moments in this conversation was the story involving my previous guest, Coach Jim Johnson. When Coach Jim recently reconnected with Jimmy, he realized Jimmy had actually been one of the high school basketball players he coached years earlier. It was a wonderful reminder that relationships often come full circle in unexpected and meaningful ways. Jimmy’s message is simple but powerful: when you focus on what truly matters, you not only perform better, you build stronger relationships and live with greater purpose. Key Takeaways • A single guiding word can bring clarity and intention to your life and leadership. • Simplifying your focus often leads to stronger results than chasing many goals. • Purpose and performance are deeply connected to the relationships we build along the way. • Leaders who focus on culture, mindset, and wellness create stronger teams. • The right word can act as a compass for decisions throughout the year. You can reach Jimmy at: https://beunstoppable.live/ and https://getoneword.com/ In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    34 min
  2. MAR 10

    What Is Empathy in Leadership (And Why It Builds Trust)

    Trust feels more fragile than ever right now, and I believe leaders are being asked to navigate change, uncertainty, and higher expectations in ways we have not seen before. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller, EQ expert, TEDx speaker, and author of The Empathic Leader, to talk about empathy as a practical leadership skill that builds trust, improves culture, and drives results. Melissa helped me broaden how I think about empathy. It is not only about “feeling what someone feels.” She explains emotional empathy, cognitive empathy, and self-empathy, and why leaders can take another person’s perspective even if they do not experience the same emotions. We also talk about the difference between real empathy and performative empathy, and why curiosity is one of the clearest signals that empathy is genuine. One of my favorite moments was hearing her simple leadership reminder: trust is often built through visibility and small actions, one person at a time. If you lead a team, manage from the middle, or you are stepping into leadership for the first time, this conversation will give you both insight and real-world tools you can use immediately. Key takeaways Empathy is both a gift and a skill. You can learn it, practice it, and get better at it over time.Cognitive empathy matters. You can understand someone’s perspective without taking on all the feelings, which helps prevent burnout.Trust is built through visibility and consistency. Culture forms in the everyday moments when people are watching what leaders do.Performative empathy is self-focused. Genuine empathy is other-focused and includes curiosity.Empathy and judgment cannot exist in the same space. The more we compare through our own lens, the harder it is to truly empathize. You can find Melissa at: https://eqviaempathy.com/ melissa.a.robinson@gmail.com In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    35 min
  3. MAR 3

    How Small Businesses Can Compete by Building Trust

    This week, I sit down with Nick Richtsmeier to explore something many business owners feel but struggle to articulate: trust is eroding, and it is affecting every sales conversation. Nick challenges the traditional growth playbook. Instead of treating hesitation, resistance, or disengagement as problems to fix, he reframes them as valuable data. Distrust is not a failure. It is information. We talk about why digital systems reward speed and extraction over relationship building, and why small businesses feel the impact most. Nick introduces the idea of “trust nodes” as simple, human touch points that shape long-term loyalty far more effectively than funnels or persuasion tactics. If you have ever wondered why prospects seem more skeptical, why sales cycles feel longer, or why pushing harder no longer works, this conversation will give you language and clarity. At its heart, this episode is about returning to what actually grows business: authentic relationships built on transparency, alignment, and integrity. Key Takeaways Resistance in a sales conversation is not rejection. It is feedback.Distrust often reveals misalignment in expectations, incentives, or promises.Small relational moments, or trust nodes, matter more than automated campaigns.Traditional persuasion tactics are losing effectiveness in a skeptical market.Sustainable growth comes from strengthening relationships, not gaming systems. You can find Nick at: Culturecraft.com In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    40 min
  4. FEB 24

    The Power of Words in Leadership: Caring, Accountability, and Trust

    In this episode, I sit down with Coach Jim Johnson, a long-time educator, championship basketball coach, and inspirational speaker who has spent decades helping people see what’s possible for them. Right away, I could see how closely Jim’s leadership style reflects what I’ve witnessed firsthand, with my husband. (He was a lifelong high school basketball coach too.) Leading with belief, care, and encouragement, and understanding that the words we choose can stay with someone for life. Jim shares honest lessons from early in his career, including a humbling season that forced him to rethink what leadership really requires. We talk about why “caring” and “challenging” are not opposites, and how the best leaders hold high standards while still building trust. Jim also explains how he became more intentional with communication, including a shift from “having the agenda” to becoming what he calls the Chief Question Asker. We also talk about the unforgettable J-Mac story, a moment that captured the world’s attention and still stands as a powerful reminder of what happens when a team chooses “we over me.” It’s a conversation about trust, team culture, resilience under pressure, and how relationships and words shape performance, confidence, and lives. Takeaways Words last. The things we say as leaders can become part of someone’s confidence for years.Caring and challenging can live together. High standards work best when people also feel seen and supported.Relationships are the foundation. Trust doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention, time, and knowing your people.Teams unite when leaders listen. Asking better questions and creating space for real input builds ownership.Clarity is kindness. Even hard feedback lands better when it’s clear, respectful, and explained. Jim can be reached at: https://coachjimjohnson.com/ In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    41 min
  5. FEB 17

    The Art of Orchestrating Connection – with David Homan

    In this episode, I sit down with David Homan, master connector, podcaster, start-up founder, co-author of Orchestrating Connection and founder of Orchestrated Connecting. We explore how connection, generosity, and purpose can transform our businesses and our lives. David shares how he’s built a system to track and honor referrals — so that connectors get recognized for the value they create. We also talk about his insight that while most people are great at helping others, they often struggle to ask for what they need. We dive into why being intentional about who you surround yourself with matters, and how success often comes down to the right people in the right conditions. Key Takeaways: The best connectors give freely — but they also need to learn to ask for themselves.Every introduction has value; honoring the chain of connection strengthens trust.Purposeful communities grow when people align around shared values and generosity.The equation for meaningful success: the right people + the right conditions.True connection isn’t networking — it’s orchestrating relationships with intention. David can be found at: orchestratedconnecting.com In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    48 min
  6. FEB 10

    What Makes a Client Truly Referable with Stacey Brown Randall

    In this episode I welcome back Stacey Brown Randall, author of The Referable Client Experience. Stacey challenges the old idea that referrals come from asking. We talk about why excellent work alone doesn’t lead to referrals, what clients are quietly thinking as they move through your process, and how small, human touchpoints build trust, safety, and pride, the emotions that make people willing to put their name behind you. Key Takeaways Great work ≠ referrals. You need both strong delivery and an intentional relationship layer.Map your client journey. Label every touchpoint “W” (work) or “R” (relationship) and aim for at least ~20% relationship touchpoints per stage.Honor the “quiet voice.” Anticipate what new, active, and alumni clients are feeling and address it proactively.Gifts should be about them, not you. Avoid logoed items for referral sources; extend brand through meaningful, client-centric tokens.Being small is a superpower. Your ability to connect personally is what big brands can’t replicate. Stacey can be found at: staceybrownrandall.com Her book is in book stores and on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0bhNAExm In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    43 min
  7. FEB 3

    Why Empathy Wins: Leading People In An AI World

    In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Robin Hills, founder of Ei4Change and a long-time educator in emotional intelligence. We explore why the future is human, how empathy drives real performance, and what leaders can do that AI never will. Robin shares how self-awareness translates into intelligent behavior, why personality assessments are only useful when we apply them, and how the seven basic human emotions show up in everyday leadership. We also talk cultural context, creating safe learning environments, and Robin’s updated take on emotional resilience in business – his updated 2nd edition of: The Authority Guide to Emotional Resilience in Business. Key Takeaways Emotional intelligence is a success skill. Empathy, purpose, and values-based decisions inspire people in ways technology cannot.Self-awareness is the gateway to intelligent behavior. Know your strengths and limitations, then practice regulating emotions in real situations.Tools are helpful, not definitive. Personality assessments and AI are starting points. Make outputs relevant to your voice, culture, and context.Lead humans, not abstractions. Focus on relationships, collaboration, and creating environments where people can learn and contribute.The seven basic emotions matter at work. Recognizing blends of joy, anger, sadness, fear, surprise, disgust, and contempt helps leaders respond wisely. Robin can be found at: Website: https://ei4change.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robinhills In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    51 min
  8. JAN 27

    How Visual Thinking Builds Trust in Business Relationships

    Seeing is Believing! That’s one of the mantras of my guest, Todd Cherches. Todd has built his career, and written a book called: Visual Leadership: Leveraging the Power of Visual Leadership and Life. In this interview we explore how visual thinking can transform the way we communicate, connect, and build trust in business. Todd shares why helping people “see what you’re saying” isn’t about artistic talent, but about clarity, intention, and empathy. We talk about how visuals, metaphors, and storytelling create shared understanding, especially when ideas feel complex or abstract. Todd also explains why visual leadership helps prospects, clients, and referral partners feel more confident, engaged, and aligned. This conversation is a reminder that trust grows faster when people truly understand you — and visual thinking is one of the most powerful ways to make that happen. Key Takeaways Visual thinking helps people understand ideas more quickly and remember them longerTrust increases when communication feels clear, human, and relatableYou don’t need to be “creative” to use visuals effectively in businessMetaphors and stories make abstract ideas tangible and meaningfulHelping others see your thinking builds confidence and credibility Todd can be reached at: https://www.toddcherches.com/ or on LinkedIn at: linkedin.com/in/toddcherches In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you: A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile: An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener! Connect with me: http://JanicePorter.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/ https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1 https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcast review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

    37 min
4.9
out of 5
40 Ratings

About

Imagine that 68% of our clients leave because they feel we don’t care. Then visualize having authentic heart-based retention strategies, proven to minimize client losses, while organically generating a substantial number of loyal clients through referrals. Catch a glimpse of how Janice opens a conversation by applying her fine-tuned curiosity. Notice how genuinely interested she is in building a relationship with her guests – heart-based business owners and entrepreneurs. In mere minutes, guests generously share their most sweet and powerful retention systems that you can adopt today! As a seasoned relationship marketing specialist, Janice invites us to listen in weekly, as she reveals how to nurture and build relationships in real-time. The Relationships Rule podcast’s aim, is to help you naturally ease your networking fears, so you can adopt strategies that amplify your client list, because the facts are, that today, success is built on a foundation of strong relationships. You can relax now, knowing you can activate your relationship marketing plan, by simply tuning in to Relationships Rule each week.