You decide what your setbacks mean. That idea powers a wide‑ranging conversation with master sales trainer Gene Slade, who shows how technicians in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing can turn survival mode into momentum by changing their story and tightening their sales process. We dig into the mindset that fuels consistent action—separating what happened from the meaning we assign—so confidence comes from competence, not hype.

Gene walks us through the journey from teenage installer to top closer to industry trainer, including the moment he was fired after passing his contractor exam and chose to build instead of retreat. He opens his playbook on the tactics that move the needle fast: presenting payment plans without the “financing” stigma, using “Did you know” question frames to bypass the truth‑false filter, and mirroring “I want to think about it” to uncover the real price objection. We also get into objection handling that preserves trust, why silence is a tool, and how pre‑planned presentations let you listen better and close bigger.

Beyond tactics, we explore the habits that create durable influence—morning rucks, cold plunges, reading daily, and a media diet that feeds your goals. Gene’s mansion‑style training immersions, complete with memory pictures and role‑play, help reps recall complex scripts effortlessly and walk into homes with calm authority. The results are real: technicians doubling and tripling sales within weeks, building careers that fund their families and future.

If you’re in the trades or lead a blue‑collar team, this is a masterclass in sales psychology, practical scripts, and leadership. Tap play, share it with a teammate who’s ready to level up, and leave a review to tell us which tactic you’ll implement first. Subscribe for more conversations that build mindset, skill set, and results.