RepIntel™: Insights from Top Sales Reps

Jeffrey Simon
  • 0.0 (0)
  • CAREERS

Unlock the secrets to independent sales success on Repintel™: Insights from top sales reps, hosted by Jeffrey Simon, Founder and Principal Owner of RepHunter. With over two decades of experience helping companies and reps connect, Jeffrey takes you inside the minds of the industry's most successful independent sales representatives. Every episode features a top-performing rep sharing their unfiltered experiences, best practices, and actionable advice. We dive into the real-world challenges and triumphs of building a lucrative 100% commission sales career, covering everything from finding the right product lines to mastering the art of the close. Jeffrey's mission is clear: to provide the inside track for companies looking to quickly build or expand their outside sales force, and for independent reps seeking their next big opportunity. Tune in as he connects with successful reps who are actively seeking new lines and calling on decision-makers in your market.

Episodes

  1. The Step-by-Step Walkthrough of RepHunter for Sales Reps to Land Commission Lines - Brenda Sorensen

    FEB 4

    The Step-by-Step Walkthrough of RepHunter for Sales Reps to Land Commission Lines - Brenda Sorensen

    After years of working with independent reps, I pulled together the essential strategies for finding principals, negotiating commissions, and managing your lines. Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep —------------------------------------------------------ In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Brenda Sorensen, a long-time Sales Manager at RepHunter about shifting focus from independent rep stories to a practical walkthrough of the RepHunter platform itself. With over two decades of experience, Brenda Sorensen joins the show to guide new and seasoned reps through using the RepHunter website to effectively find new product lines, optimize their profiles, and manage contacts for commission-only sales opportunities. Brenda Sorensen is the longtime Customer Support Manager at RepHunter, bringing over 20 years of frontline experience helping independent reps and companies navigate the platform. Her deep knowledge of user behavior, platform functionality, and common rep challenges makes her an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to succeed with RepHunter. Expect to Learn-How to get started with RepHunter, even if you’re brand new to independent sales -Pro tips for using the search function to find relevant product lines and companies -Key strategies for creating a compelling rep profile that attracts attention -The difference between unregistered and registered user experiences on the site -How to maintain and organize communications through RepHunter’s built-in tools Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00:00] - Teaser [00:01:13] - Meet Brenda Sorensen [00:04:09] - Who is RepHunter For? [00:09:32] - Registering as a Rep [00:10:42] - Inside the Dashboard [00:12:22] - Building a Strong Profile [00:14:23] - Using Search and Favorites as a Registered Rep [00:16:09] - Communication Tools and Contact Management [00:24:47] - Final Advice and Support Resources 📱 Follow the Guest Brenda Sorensen: 👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendasorensen/ 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/_/1627303846/ 👉 X: https://x.com/rephunter 👉Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rephunter.net 👉Company Website: https://www.rephunter.net/ 👉Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rep_hunter9/ 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/ 📱 Follow RepHunter: 👉...

    31 min
  2. She Got Laid Off, Then Helped Fashion Brands Break into Nordstrom & Anthropologie – Justine Kaufman

    JAN 21

    She Got Laid Off, Then Helped Fashion Brands Break into Nordstrom & Anthropologie – Justine Kaufman

    After years of working with independent reps, I pulled together the essential strategies for finding principals, negotiating commissions, and managing your lines. Download the free eGuide here: https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-sales-rep —------------------------------------------------------ In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks about the evolving landscape of independent sales with Justine Kaufman, Independent Business Owner at The Fully Fashioned. They explore how retail expertise can shape successful sales strategies and how the modern rep’s role extends far beyond just selling into education, mediation, and strategic brand building. Justine Kaufman is an independent sales rep and a key member of RepHunter. With a background that includes major retail players like Century 21 and Saks Fifth Avenue, she brings a rare combination of buying-side experience and wholesale strategy. Her career trajectory from loss prevention and buying to owning a sales agency makes her a unique voice in the world of independent repping. Expect to Learn - The value of retail experience in shaping successful sales strategies. - How independent reps serve as both brand builders and consultants. - The process of launching new brands into major retailers. - Why being a good listener often trumps being a fast talker in sales. - The evolving role of technology and AI in the independent sales world. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] - Teaser [00:00:52] - Introduction [00:01:52] - From Retail to Wholesale [00:07:10] - Entering the Sales World Unexpectedly [00:10:53] - Discovering RepHunter [00:14:13] - A Success Story in Activewear [00:18:08] - Redefining Sales — Listening Over Selling [00:26:43] - Expanding Services: Fractional Sales Management [00:30:50] - Embracing Innovation and AI [00:33:39] - Closing Thoughts and Gratitude 📱 Follow the Guest Justine Kaufman: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justine-kaufman-81b80323 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefullyfashioned/?hl=en 👉Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fully-fashioned 👉Company Website: https://thefullyfashioned.com/ 👉Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefullyfashioned/ 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/ 📱 Follow RepHunter: 👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/ 🔗 Listening Links: 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

    35 min
  3. The Sales Reps Can Earn $100K Without Ever Touching Product or Cash with Robert Webb

    JAN 7

    The Sales Reps Can Earn $100K Without Ever Touching Product or Cash with Robert Webb

    After years of working with independent reps, I pulled together the essential strategies for finding principals, negotiating commissions, and managing your lines. Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep —------------------------------------------------------ In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Robert Webb, a highly experienced independent sales representative with more than four decades in the rep industry. The conversation dives into Robert’s long career as a manufacturer’s agent, his transition into building and running his own rep agency, and the hard-earned lessons that come from representing multiple companies across the U.S. and Canada. Roberts helps manufacturers enter new markets, grow revenue through distribution, and transition from outsourced representation to in-house sales teams. He is also an active mentor to entrepreneurs and emerging reps through organizations such as SCORE and Futurpreneur. Expect to Learn- How Robert transitioned from in-house sales roles to independent repping - Why acting as a “connector”, without touching product or money - is a powerful business model - The realities of commission structures and protecting your value as a rep - Common pitfalls that cause new reps to fail early - Why integrity and long-term relationships matter more than short-term income - How the 80/20 rule shapes a successful rep portfolio - What new reps must be financially and mentally prepared for before going independent Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00:00] – Trailer [00:01:09] – Introduction of Robert Webb [00:05:53] – How Robert Got Started in Sales [00:10:54] – The Connector Model: Selling Without Touching Product or Cash [00:13:23] – Counterintuitive Lessons About Opportunity Evaluation [00:15:59] – Preparing for the Realities of Independent Repping [00:19:48] – The 80/20 Rule and Managing Principal Relationships [00:24:40] – Mentorship, Training, and Advice for the Next Generation of Reps [00:26:56] – Final Thoughts and Closing 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/ 📱 Follow RepHunter: 👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/ 🔗 Listening Links: 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

    27 min
  4. The Independent Sales Reality for Aspiring Reps to Build Real Income with Work - Travis Tabor

    12/03/2025

    The Independent Sales Reality for Aspiring Reps to Build Real Income with Work - Travis Tabor

    After years of working with independent reps, I pulled together the essential strategies for finding principals, negotiating commissions, and managing your lines. Download the free eGuide here: https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep —------------------------------------------------------ In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Travis Tabor, CEO of Tabor Sales and Automation and a seasoned sales professional and independent representative.The conversation explores Travis's journey from grassroots hustles to launching his own business, offering valuable insights into what it takes to succeed as an independent sales rep. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a career in sales or looking to improve their approach to business-to-business selling. Travis Tabor is an independent sales representative and a member of RepHunter. With over 20 years of experience in various sales roles, ranging from retail and automotive to industrial solutions, Travis brings deep expertise and a grounded perspective. His path includes work in both employee and entrepreneurial settings, culminating in his current role where he helps connect manufacturers with ideal sales channels. Expect to Learn - The unique value of being a lifelong learner in sales. - How RepHunter streamlined Travis's business connections. - The transition from employee to independent rep and business owner. - Myths about "easy" sales work and what the real grind looks like. - Why deep product and customer knowledge are essential for long-term success. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] – Trailer [00:01:19] – Introduction of Travis Tabor [00:01:59] – What Makes a Great Rep? [00:02:29] – Client Interactions and Building Trust [00:04:43] – Travis’s Sales Journey [00:05:30] – From Employee to Independent Rep [00:08:45] – Secrets to Repping Success [00:13:35] – Debunking the One-Hour-a-Day Myth [00:17:25] – Closing Thoughts 📱Follow the Guest Travis Tabor: 👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taborsalesandautomation/ 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/ 📱 Follow RepHunter: 👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/ 🔗 Listening Links: 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289

    18 min
  5. He Scaled $20M Amazon Brands Without Charging a Dime Using This Strategy with Jim Stack

    11/26/2025

    He Scaled $20M Amazon Brands Without Charging a Dime Using This Strategy with Jim Stack

    After years of working with independent reps, I pulled together the essential strategies for finding principals, negotiating commissions, and managing your lines. Download the free eGuide here https://bit.ly/guide-for-independent-salesrep  —------------------------------------------------------ In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Jim Stack,  an independent sales representative and co-owner of HNW Marketing who helped shape Amazon’s third-party ecosystem from the ground up. Jim shares how his team built billion-dollar product lines, why they’ve stayed committed to a rare “straight commission” model, and what it takes to succeed in highly competitive e-commerce marketplaces. Whether you're a sales professional, brand founder, or new to Amazon, Jim’s insight-packed stories reveal what separates thriving reps from the rest. With over two decades of experience selling on Amazon, Jim helped pioneer third-party seller relationships on the platform starting as one of the first partners to manually upload products. He’s closed deals with household names like Logitech and continues to build multi-million dollar brands through straight commission work. Jim is also a longtime member of RepHunter and a living testament to the power of integrity, grit, and relationship-based selling. Expect to LearnWhy Jim’s team still runs on a straight commission model—and how it pays offThe inside story of uploading one of the first product spreadsheets on AmazonHow cold calling with no air conditioning launched Jim’s sales careerHow Amazon success can unlock Target, Walmart, and Costco partnershipsWhy Jim evaluates risk first, not revenue, when taking on new clients Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00:00] - Teaser [00:01:12] – Introduction & Background [00:02:07] – What Makes a Great Sales Rep? [00:06:32] – Straight Commission: The Old-School Model That Still Works [00:08:42] – From Selling Newspapers to Wang Computers [00:16:37] – The Polaroid Pivot: Seeing Digital Before the Crash [00:18:55] – Founding HW Marketing and Meeting Amazon [00:21:57] – Building the First Amazon Product Upload Sheet [00:28:22] – Risk Philosophy and Billion-Dollar Results [00:30:51] – Using Amazon as a Stepping Stone to Retail [00:32:48] – The Global View: Amazon Beyond the US 📱 Follow our guest Jim Stack: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-stack-62ab006/ 👉 HNW Marketing Website: https://www.hnwmarketing.com/ 👉 HNW Marketing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hnw-marketing/ 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/ 📱 Follow RepHunter: 👉 Website:...

    35 min
  6. The Rep-Based Growth Model Helping Founders Scale Without Hiring or Overhead with Steven J Husak

    11/19/2025

    The Rep-Based Growth Model Helping Founders Scale Without Hiring or Overhead with Steven J Husak

    In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Steven J Husak, Founder and CEO of Continents Brands, a Florida-based firm that helps manufacturers and retailers manage everything from sales and IT to warehousing and fulfillment. Steven shares his remarkable journey from corporate leadership to building a global e-commerce representation firm operating across four continents. Known for his bold approach to business and his willingness to speak his mind, Steven discusses the realities of entrepreneurship, the value of strong partnerships, and what it takes to pioneer new markets in today’s digital world. During the conversation, Steven reflects on his career path, his belief that “everyone is in sales,” and how RepHunter played a key role in his company’s early success. He offers valuable lessons on persistence, innovation, and integrity in business relationships. Listeners will gain a behind-the-scenes look at the systems, strategies, and mindset that helped him turn Continents Brands into a trusted international company. Key Topics: How Steven built Continents Brands into a full-service global e-commerce firm.The mindset shifts from traditional sales to modern online representation.Why does every business depend on selling ideas, not just products?The challenges of managing international teams and time zones.How RepHunter helped Steven find early clients and long-term success. Episode Highlights and Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser & Introduction to Steven J Husak and Continents Brands [02:01] - Why Steven Is a Great Rep & His No-Upfront-Cost E-Commerce Solution [04:50] - Steven shares his journey into sales and how it evolved. [05:52] - From insurance to global sales and leadership lessons [07:17] - Early vision for online retail before “drop shipping” was common [08:26] - Founding Continents Brands during the recession [11:58] - Going independent and building a global 24/7 team [15:12] - EDI & Investing in IT systems to streamline operations and service [18:46] - RepHunter’s impact and the value of long-term relationships [20:38] - How Steven J. Husak Challenges the Norms [22:36] - Why Readiness Is Key Before Hiring Sales Reps [25:01] - Final reflections on innovation, loyalty, and collaboration 📱 Follow our guest, Steven J Husak: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steven_husak/ 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steven.husak 👉 Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064272270018 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/ 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrhilliard/ 👉 Instagram: a href="https://www.instagram.com/hilliard3979?igsh=MXVyeXR6cDdkc3A2ZQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    30 min
  7. The Independent Sales Blueprint to Earn Freedom, Avoid Bad Deals, and Win Loyalty with Jim Hilliard

    11/12/2025

    The Independent Sales Blueprint to Earn Freedom, Avoid Bad Deals, and Win Loyalty with Jim Hilliard

    In this episode of the RepHunter’s RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Jim Hilliard, an Innovation and Results Consultant at JRHilliard LLC, Ambassador at Eliances, veteran independent sales representative, and longtime member of RepHunter. With decades of experience in the field, Jim’s journey in sales began years ago, progressing from his early professional days into building a thriving independent rep business. His extensive background and deep understanding of client relationships have shaped him into a respected figure within the sales industry. During the conversation, Jim reflects on his career path, sharing how he approaches problem-solving and the challenges of collaborating with large corporations. He also discusses how joining RepHunter became a turning point in his ongoing success. Listeners will gain valuable insights into Jim’s principles of integrity, his long-term vision in sales, and the strategies he uses to excel in the ever-changing world of sales. Key Topics: The start of Jim's sales career: From selling Turkey raffle tickets in grade school to booking talent for college parties.Transitioning to independent sales: Moving from large corporations like NCR, Hewlett Packard, and IBM to becoming an independent rep.Honesty and integrity in sales: Jim’s philosophy of never overcommitting and treating everyone with respect.The value of persistence: Why taking "no" as "not now" is essential for long-term success.Building a business on solving problems: Jim’s approach to sales focusing on helping businesses save money through services like credit card processing audits. Episode Highlights and Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser & Introduction to Jim Hilliard and his career. [02:15] - Jim’s early sales experience and customer interaction lessons. [04:48] - Booking talent and using computers for the first time. [05:51] - Jim’s time as an undercover officer for the FBI. [07:18] - Transition to the corporate world with NCR, HP, and IBM. [08:06] - Shift to independent sales and solving problems. [10:05] - Why Jim prefers independence over large companies. [12:16] - Jim’s theory on “Become your own boss” [13:58] - Jim’s life goal and having fun while problem-solving [14:34] - Sharing some AHA moments [14:56] - Helping businesses save money through audits. [17:19] - Example of success in sales [18:04] - RepHunter Principles and clients [21:03] - Episode wrap-up with Jim’s closing insights. 📱 Follow our guest, Jim Hilliard: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrhilliard/ 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrhilliard/ 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilliard3979/# 👉 Eliances Website: https://www.eliances.com/ 👉Eliances LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eliances/ 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey...

    23 min
  8. I Turned 15 Sales Reps into a National Agency with Zero Cold Outreach with Jerry Campanella

    11/07/2025

    I Turned 15 Sales Reps into a National Agency with Zero Cold Outreach with Jerry Campanella

    In this episode of the RepHunter's RepIntel Podcast, host Jeffrey Simon talks with Jerry Campanella, Chief Executive Officer at GMC Consulting International, a 31-year independent sales veteran, president of his own rep agency, and a long-time member of RepHunter. Jerry shares his journey from corporate sales with major consumer products companies to becoming a successful independent representative, revealing the keys to building lasting success and a thriving multi-rep agency. He discusses the pivotal role of relationships, persistence, and how RepHunter has contributed significantly to his company's growth. Key Topics: 1.The path from corporate sales to independent rep: Jerry's early career at Bristol-Myers and other large consumer products companies. 2.The crucial role of relationships and connections: How building a network as an employee made the transition to an independent agency easier. 3.The best thing about RepHunter is putting companies in front of his agency every week, and how 50-60% of their clients come through the platform. 4.The importance of persistence in sales. 5.Utilizing technology in an independent agency: Using virtual assistants and AI for productivity and support. 6.The value of consulting: Adding a consulting piece to the service offered to clients, especially startups, and how it impacts compensation. Episode Highlights and Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction to Jerry Campanella, his 31 years in independent sales, and 21 years with RepHunter. [00:02:00] - Jerry's start in sales, working for his dad, and his first corporate job at Bristol-Myers. [00:04:33] - Jerry's experience running a small business division of Stratton of London, which provided connections to future sales reps. [00:06:07] - Starting his own totally independent company, and a focus on consumer products. [00:08:41] - How RepHunter became a critical tool for his company's growth, contributing to 50-60% of their clients. [00:09:51] - Jerry's multi-rep agency structure and how they use virtual assistants for tasks like reaching out to retail chains. [00:11:38] - Utilizing AI (his "assistant Ringo") strictly for correspondence and productivity support, not customer-facing sales. [00:13:30] - The controversial but successful approach of acting as a consultant to new clients who are not yet "rep ready". [00:14:42] - Final thoughts on adding a consulting piece to the business and how it aids cash flow with a multi-rep team. 📱 Follow our guest, Jerry Campanella: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-campanella-a44baa31b/ 📱 Follow the Host Jeffrey Simon: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyasimon/ 📱 Follow RepHunter: 👉 Website: https://www.rephunter.net/ 🔗 Listening Links: 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qsBiIxQno7umiZELZtR45 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/repintel-insights-from-top-sales-reps/id1850733289 🔗 Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on unleashing your success as an independent sales rep. Share your thoughts or questions in the comments - we’d love to hear from you!

    16 min

  9. 11/04/2025

    New Episode Coming Soon!

    Are you looking to master the highly specialized world of independent sales? Introducing RepIntel: Insights from top sales reps! Join host Jeffrey Simon, Founder of RepHunter, as he shares the wisdom he's gained over two decades of connecting companies with elite independent sales talent. In every episode, Jeffrey sits down with the industry’s most successful, high-earning independent representatives. They’ll reveal their proven methods—from securing exclusive lines and navigating complex deals to achieving sustainable, high-commission success. Whether you are an established company seeking guaranteed sales results or a sales professional aiming for peak performance, RepIntel delivers the intelligence you need. RepIntel is coming soon. Subscribe today and prepare to elevate your sales strategy.

    1 min
  • 9 Episodes

About

Unlock the secrets to independent sales success on Repintel™: Insights from top sales reps, hosted by Jeffrey Simon, Founder and Principal Owner of RepHunter. With over two decades of experience helping companies and reps connect, Jeffrey takes you inside the minds of the industry's most successful independent sales representatives. Every episode features a top-performing rep sharing their unfiltered experiences, best practices, and actionable advice. We dive into the real-world challenges and triumphs of building a lucrative 100% commission sales career, covering everything from finding the right product lines to mastering the art of the close. Jeffrey's mission is clear: to provide the inside track for companies looking to quickly build or expand their outside sales force, and for independent reps seeking their next big opportunity. Tune in as he connects with successful reps who are actively seeking new lines and calling on decision-makers in your market.

Information