In a world obsessed with automation, AI, and scaling faster, many business owners are forgetting one thing that still drives long-term success: relationships.

In this episode, leadership expert and Spheres of Influence author Brad Englert shares powerful lessons from decades of experience at Accenture and the University of Texas. From improving customer retention to building trust with employees, vendors, and clients, Brad explains why getting “out of the office” may be the most valuable business strategy today.

Instead of focusing only on transactions, Brad discusses how successful companies create long-term partnerships that lead to referrals, loyalty, and sustainable growth. He also shares real-world stories about leadership transformation, organizational culture, customer service, and how proactive communication can prevent major business problems before they happen.

For entrepreneurs, agency owners, consultants, and leaders trying to grow without constantly chasing new clients, this conversation offers practical strategies you can apply immediately.

📈 What You’ll Learn

• Why relationship-building beats transactional networking

• How customer retention dramatically lowers marketing costs

• The importance of understanding customer goals and expectations

• How proactive leadership improves company culture

• Why vendor relationships can become strategic advantages

• The leadership lesson behind “Get out of your office and tell people you care”

• How transparency and accountability rebuild damaged relationships

• Why feedback systems help businesses grow faster

• Marketing advice for authors and entrepreneurs

• How to create long-term trust with clients and teams

🌱Who This Episode Is For

This episode is perfect for:

• Small business owners

• Entrepreneurs and startup founders

• Coaches and consultants

• Sales leaders

• IT and operations professionals

• Marketing agencies

• Authors and thought leaders

• Anyone focused on leadership and customer retention

Brad also shares valuable insights for companies struggling with employee culture, customer turnover, or communication breakdowns inside growing organizations.

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that leadership is not about staying isolated behind systems and processes. It’s about visibility, trust, consistency, and genuine care for the people around you.

Whether you’re running a local business or leading a large organization, the ability to strengthen your “sphere of influence” can directly impact your long-term growth.

🎧 Follow the podcast for future episodes featuring business leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for growth and success.