Transforming Corporate Know-How into Unique IP with Wes Wheless
Release Date: 07/16/2024
Smarter Decisions; How Independent Consultants Can Use Real Research
STOP THE NOISE
In this episode of Stop the Noise, Susan Tatum talks with Jay Ballenberger about how independent consultants can make better business decisions by using real research instead of relying solely on instinct or AI. Jay explains how low-cost, high-value research uncovers opportunities, prevents costly mistakes, and builds momentum. He also shares practical ways to access data from libraries and universities, and why you don’t need to outsource research if you have a clear process and the right guide.
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Escaping the Generalist Trap
STOP THE NOISE
In this episode of Stop the Noise, Susan Tatum talks with Corey Quinn, a former CMO turned growth advisor, about why being “everything to everyone” leads to burnout and mediocre results. Corey explains the dangers of the generalist trap, introduces his deep specialization flywheel, and shares how narrowing your focus can create higher fees, stronger positioning, and more leverage. He also reveals practical ways he uses AI as a solo consultant to sharpen sales conversations, design better workshops, and deliver more effective coaching.
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Your Pedigree Opens Doors; Your Point of View Wins Clients
STOP THE NOISE
In this episode of Stop the Noise, Susan Tatum talks with Jonathan Mills about the challenges many independent consultants face when transitioning from corporate roles. Jonathan shares why narrowing your focus is essential, how to replace awkward “sales” moments with genuine conversations, and the role storytelling plays in making your expertise memorable. Together, they unpack how consultants can move from relying on pedigree to standing out with a clear point of view.
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Get Published, Get Known: Building Authority with Purpose
STOP THE NOISE
In this episode of Stop the Noise, Susan talks with Erica Holthausen about how independent consultants can use publishing as a powerful tool to build authority - without falling into the trap of “get published and they will come.” Erica shares why publishing with purpose matters, how to select the right outlets for your goals, and how to turn published articles into long-term business assets. She also breaks down her SOAR framework for planning impactful pieces and offers practical advice for those who don’t see themselves as strong writers.
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From Pipeline Slowdown to Smart Strategy: What’s Working Now for Independent Consultants
STOP THE NOISE
Sarena Diamond returns to Stop the Noise with a follow-up to one of the most downloaded episodes in the podcast’s history. This time, she shares how the independent consulting landscape has shifted since 2023 - what’s changed with talent platforms like Catalant and BTG, how she’s navigating slower pipelines, and why relationship-driven visibility (especially on LinkedIn) is more important than ever.
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If It Feels Like Selling, You’re Doing It Wrong
STOP THE NOISE
Veteran sales leader Anthony Mayo joins Stop the Noise to explain why real selling doesn’t feel like selling at all. With 40 years of experience - including deep work with emotional intelligence and the DISC framework - Anthony shares how to lead conversations with empathy, curiosity, and presence. If the idea of selling makes you cringe, this episode will show you a better way: one that builds trust without pressure and wins business without pitching.
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What CEOs Miss About Product Management and How Consultants Can Help
STOP THE NOISE
In this episode, Susan talks with Paul Wetzel, a former multi-time Chief Product Officer who now advises growth and late-stage B2B software companies. Paul shares what many CEOs misunderstand about their product function, why product management often lags behind other investments, and how consultants can use market insight—not a sales pitch—to open doors. He also breaks down the real impact of AI on software companies and why now is the right time to offer outside help.
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How One Consultant Built a Flowing Pipeline Without Marketing
STOP THE NOISE
In this episode, Susan talks with Darren Leva, a biotech industry veteran who built a thriving consulting business without a website, marketing, or outreach campaigns. Darren shares the simple practices that keep his pipeline full—like five coffee chats a week, doing serious prep before meetings, and knowing exactly when companies need help. He also touches on what’s happening in life sciences now, the rise of fractional roles, and how he balances consulting with running a mobile sauna business.
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How One Consultant Turned Curiosity into Conversations, Content, and Clients
STOP THE NOISE
In this episode, Lisa Carmichael shares how a simple curiosity about AI evolved into 40+ conversations, new service ideas, a growing network, and valuable market insight. She walks us through how she got started, what she learned, and how independent consultants can use curiosity and conversations to build visibility and opportunity - without needing a master plan.
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Inbound Success, Thoughtfully Built
STOP THE NOISE
What happens when you build a consulting business almost entirely through inbound leads? In this episode, Susan Tatum talks with Kelli Schutrop, a fractional sales and marketing executive who’s done just that - fueled by years of consistent thought leadership. Kelli shares her real-world approach to building credibility, driving referrals, and showing up with purpose, offering practical insights for consultants who want to grow without cold pitches.
info_outlineAs a consultant, your number 1 tool is your intellectual property. Founder of develop my ip, Wes Wheless shares why IP is so critical for creating authority in your industry, as well as tips on how to develop and refine your IP from your unique insights and experiences.