Power the Network

Hosted by CLEAVES-BESSMER-MARIETTI, INC.

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Jun 2026

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Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

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June 11, 202628 min

John Mitchell Pt 2 | The SECRET to AI-Powered Lead Gen

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover how AI and modern CRM tools like RepFabric can revolutionize your manufacturer's rep firm. Optimize your sales performance today. In this insightful episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Logger sits down with John Mitchell, the creator of RepFabric, to explore how advanced technology and CRM systems are reshaping the landscape for manufacturer representatives. As sales teams face increasing pressure to balance administrative tasks with building meaningful relationships, this conversation provides a deep dive into the practical application of generative AI, vector databases, and, perhaps most importantly, the enduring need for 'human-in-the-loop' oversight. Discover how to effectively manage sales performance, set clear behavioral goals, and navigate the complex, multi-tier distribution networks common in the building and construction industries. Whether you are a seasoned sales veteran or a leader looking to modernize your agency's operations, John shares actionable insights on account research, territory planning, and fostering a culture of accountability. Learn how to leverage data-driven metrics to drive efficiency, improve your sales funnel, and empower your team to focus on high-impact opportunities that lead to long-term growth. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

May 28, 202631 min

From Frustrated Rep to CRM Founder: John Mitchell's Rep Fabric Journey

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Struggling to manage rep firm data? Discover how specialized CRM tools and AI are revolutionizing daily efficiency for manufacturing representatives. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Loger sits down with John Mitchell, the creator of Rep Fabric, to discuss the specific challenges faced by manufacturers' rep firms. If you are a sales professional or a rep firm owner dealing with fragmented data silos, commission management, or inefficient reporting, this conversation is for you. John shares his journey from working at Accenture to building an all-in-one 'nervous system' designed specifically for the unique needs of the rep industry. We dive deep into how to move away from administrative tasks to focus on high-value sales relationships. You will learn practical strategies for cleaning up bad data, implementing AI to streamline post-call recaps, and why nurturing trusted relationships remains the most important part of your business. Whether you are looking to adopt a new CRM or need to optimize your current workflow to stay competitive in an increasingly data-driven environment, you will find actionable insights to help your team perform at its peak. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

May 14, 202645 min

Mastering Sales: Frank Foster's 30+ Years of Rep Training Secrets

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Are you tired of transactional selling? Discover the secrets to professional sales training and becoming a top-tier manufacturer representative. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with veteran sales coach Frank Foster. With over 30 years of experience, Frank explores how to shift from basic transactional selling to a model focused on consultative discovery and building long-term relationships. Whether you are in the CPG industry, working as a manufacturer's rep, or looking to improve your inside sales team's effectiveness, this interview offers actionable strategies for professional growth. We discuss the importance of full-line selling, why asking the right discovery questions is the key to unlocking hidden buyer motivations, and how to effectively navigate the 'stress sandwich' of manufacturer, rep, and customer relationships. Learn why certifications like CPSC and CPMR are becoming industry standards for professional advancement, how to leverage inside sales for maximum productivity, and why trust remains the ultimate currency in modern sales. Perfect for sales professionals, students of the industry, and anyone looking to refine their approach to closing deals and managing complex accounts in today’s competitive market environment. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

April 30, 202635 min

Tom Forshee | Building a Billion Dollar Blinking Light Brand

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Master the art of solution selling and explore the industrial world of signaling and lighting. Learn actionable sales strategies from industry experts. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Tom Forshee, a regional sales manager at Federal Signal, to pull back the curtain on the world of industrial signaling and high-impact sales. Whether you are a professional in the electrical industry or looking to sharpen your sales techniques, this conversation offers invaluable insights into consultative selling, building long-term customer relationships, and managing complex territories. Tom shares his unconventional journey from interior design and lighting to becoming an expert in industrial beacons and warning systems. We dive deep into the differences between transactional sales and value-added solutions, how to effectively manage rep relationships without direct authority, and the importance of maintaining a balance between prospecting and respecting the customer’s time. With over 125 years of history, Federal Signal’s evolution provides a fascinating case study on adapting to market demands in the petrochemical, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. Join us as we discuss how to stay top-of-mind with partners and why the 'last guy in' often wins the deal. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

April 16, 202646 min

Chris Shoe | Why Smart Towns and Community Wi-Fi are Changing Rural America

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover how independent telcos are bridging the digital divide through robust broadband infrastructure and community-focused service. Join us as we explore the future of connectivity with Green Hills Communications. ‍In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Chris Shoe, Plant Operations Manager at Green Hills Communications, to discuss the evolving landscape of rural internet service. As the industry faces critical challenges—from BEAD funding delays to the increasing demand for high-speed fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks—Green Hills shares their unique approach to balancing subscriber needs with long-term infrastructure health. We dive deep into the cooperative mindset that makes rural communications essential and examine why 'building it right the first time' is the ultimate strategy for operational success. Whether you are a fellow operator, a contractor navigating the complexities of fiber deployment, or simply interested in how small towns are gaining big-city speeds, this conversation provides essential insights. Learn about the shift toward micro-ditch technology, the importance of future-proofing network designs, and how local providers are navigating the political landscape to bring reliable digital access to underserved communities across Missouri and beyond. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

April 2, 202639 min

Matt Webster | Smart Streetlights Are Revolutionizing Cities

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ever wondered how your streetlights are secretly powering smart city technology? Join us as we dive into the evolution of intelligent lighting. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Matt Webster, Vice President of Utility Channel Sales for Acuity Brands, to explore the rapidly changing world of outdoor utility lighting. Beyond simple illumination, Acuity Brands is transforming streetlights into hubs for data collection, environmental monitoring, and asset management. We discuss the critical shift from traditional HID to high-efficiency LED technology, the integration of AI into utility operations, and how modern fixtures are evolving to host advanced sensing capabilities like pedestrian counting and emergency detection. This deep dive into the lighting industry also touches upon the vital role of manufacturer-rep partnerships, the importance of long-term customer relationships, and how Acuity navigated product challenges with integrity. Whether you are a utility professional, an engineer, or someone curious about the infrastructure of our smart cities, this conversation reveals the hidden complexity behind the lights that guide our streets. Learn how Acuity Brands is continuing to empower spaces through innovation and leadership in the utility sector. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

March 19, 202649 min

From Accounting to CEO: Mitch Bailey

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover how a 75-year-old rural broadband cooperative not only survives but thrives against modern competition. Learn the secrets to community-focused success that investor-owned companies miss. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Mitch Bailey, CEO of GRM Networks, to explore the incredible story of a 75-year-old rural telco. They dive deep into the cooperative business model, discussing how putting member-owners first creates a powerful competitive advantage. Viewers will learn how GRM Networks proactively built out a 100% fiber network, navigated broadband competition from satellite and wireless providers, and strategically expanded into urban markets. This interview is a must-watch for anyone in the telecommunications industry, community leaders interested in rural development, and business professionals looking for insights into sustainable, community-focused growth and leadership. Mitch also shares his personal journey from an accounting background to the CEO's chair, offering valuable lessons on leadership, empowerment, and strategic vision. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

March 5, 202645 min

The Power of Storytelling in Marketing | Tim Stone Ep 59

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Tim Stone from Solar Flare Media to talk about the role digital media and marketing play in helping businesses grow. Solar Flare Media works behind the scenes helping companies develop clear messaging, create engaging content, and build stronger connections with their audiences. In fact, they also help produce the Power the Network podcast itself. The conversation dives into the importance of storytelling in business marketing and why successful brands focus less on themselves and more on how they help their customers. Tim Stone explains how companies can build awareness, generate leads, and create long-term brand recognition through consistent content and messaging. They also discuss how emerging technologies like AI are changing marketing, SEO, and content creation. While tools like AI can speed up workflows and automate repetitive tasks, Tim emphasizes that strategy, creativity, and authenticity still matter most. The episode offers practical advice for companies that want to start creating content, even if marketing isn’t their natural strength. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

February 19, 202631 min

Signing Million Dollar Deals at the Airport | Zach Molzer Pt 2

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In part two of this conversation, Tim Locker sits down again with Zach Molzer of Molzer Development to dig deeper into leadership, risk, legacy, and what it truly takes to scale a company the right way. Zach shares candid insights about delegation, growth limits, and the tension founders face when their ambition outpaces their systems. From signing multimillion-dollar loan documents on the floor of an airport to shutting off the lights at the Aladdin for the last time before redevelopment, Zach opens up about the real pressure of leading with other people’s money—and why that responsibility fuels him rather than scares him. The conversation moves beyond business tactics into mindset. Zach discusses competition, confidence, and the personal strengths that drive him. He reflects on his upbringing, the entrepreneurial influence of his family, and his long-term vision: leaving a legacy in Kansas City that lasts generations. For Zach, success isn’t about private jets—it’s about impact, reputation, and building something that outlives him. This episode is a powerful look at what it means to lead with intensity, build with intention, and pursue greatness without apology. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

February 5, 202642 min

How Molzer Development Is Redefining Downtown Kansas City | Zach Molzer Pt 1

For more information, connect with us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cbmrep.com/contact⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Zach Molzer, founder of Molzer Development. Zach details the story of Molzer development and the lessons he has learned along the way. Namely, the principles of real estate development. This interview provides an inside look at both the Aladdin Hotel and Holtman building redevelopment projects. Find out more about Molzer and his team in this week's episode. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.