Referrals Done Right

Hosted by Scott Grates

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Episodes

142

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

The Secret to Creating Infinite Opportunities to Grow Your Small Business. Hosted by Scott Grates.

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60 recent

June 15, 2026Episode 14347 min

#143 - Above the Business • Bradley Hamner

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott sits down with Bradley Hamner, founder of Blueprint OS, co-owner of Freedom Exteriors and host of the Above the Business podcast. Bradley shares his journey from overwhelmed entrepreneur and self-described "rainmaker" to becoming the architect of a business that can grow without depending on him for every decision. Together, they explore why so many business owners become the bottleneck in their own companies and how shifting from doing everything yourself to building systems, teams and structure creates the foundation for sustainable growthThe conversation dives deep into business ownership, leadership, and personal growth. Bradley explains the importance of getting "above the business" to gain perspective, developing a clear vision for the future and creating documented processes that allow a company to operate more effectively. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from burnout, the value of surrounding yourself with the right people and why business owners need to stop relying solely on hard work and start thinking like architects. This episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs who want to build a business by design instead of by default.You Will Learn:• Why many entrepreneurs become the bottleneck that limits their own growth• The difference between being a rainmaker and becoming the architect of your business• How vision, systems, and team development create scalable growth• Why getting outside your business can provide the perspective needed to make better decisions• The key components of a business blueprint that allows a company to operate with less owner dependency---Bradley Hamner's Links:Podcast - https://www.abovethebusiness.coWebsite - https://bradley.blueprintos.com---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

June 11, 2026Episode 14211 min

#142 - Create Your Ideal Tuesday

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott challenges listeners to think differently about success by asking a simple but powerful question: What does your ideal Tuesday look like? Too often, people spend years chasing milestones, promotions, revenue goals, and achievements without ever considering the day to day life attached to those outcomes. Scott explores why success is not defined by occasional highlights but by the ordinary days that make up the majority of our lives. After all, life is not made up of milestone moments. It is made up of TuesdaysThroughout the episode, Scott shares insights on freedom, fulfillment, and intentional living. He explains how many people become trapped in a cycle of preparing to live instead of actually living, constantly pursuing future goals without evaluating whether those goals lead to a lifestyle they truly want. By focusing on your ideal ordinary day, rather than a distant vision of success, you can begin making decisions that align with the life you want to experience every week. This episode is a practical reminder that the quality of your life is found in the routine moments, not just the celebrated ones.You Will Learn:• Why designing your ideal Tuesday is more important than designing your next milestone• How success can create new obligations that impact your freedom and lifestyle• The difference between preparing to live and actually living in the present• Why your calendar often reveals the truth about your priorities and values• How to evaluate whether your current decisions are leading toward the life you actually want---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

June 8, 2026Episode 14140 min

#141 - RDR Throwback - The Reset Mindset w/ Penny Zenker

This episode originally aired in September of 2024. Scott sits down with Penny Zenker, a world-renowned productivity expert and author of The Productivity Zone and The Reset Mindset. Penny shares her journey from experiencing a life-changing event at 19 to becoming a leading authority on focus and productivity.She introduces her "Reset Moments" framework, explaining how both big and small resets can help us reduce stress, boost productivity, and stay aligned with our goals. Penny also offers practical tips for business owners on prioritizing tasks, avoiding the pitfalls of multitasking and creating habits that foster intentional leadership.Whether you're a small business owner or simply looking for ways to improve your focus, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you reset, refocus, and lead with clarity. Tune in to learn how you can transform chaos into clarity with Penny's proven strategies!---Penny Zenker's Links:The Reset Mindset Book - https://pennyzenker360.com/the-reset-mindsetPenny's Website - https://pennyzenker360.comFB - https://www.facebook.com/PennyzPerspective---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

June 4, 2026Episode 14010 min

#140 - Why You Don't Need to Feel Ready

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott speaks directly to entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals who feel stuck between where they are today and where they believe they are meant to go. Using the story of Moses and the burning bush as a framework, he explores the relationship between calling, self doubt, and action. Scott challenges the common belief that successful people wait until they feel ready before making a move. Instead, he argues that purpose often shows up in the middle of ordinary life and that growth begins when we respond to the opportunities and nudges already in front of usThroughout the episode, Scott breaks down the three stages of calling, conflict, and confirmation. He shares personal examples from his own life and business journey, highlighting how confidence is rarely present at the beginning of something meaningful. Rather than waiting for certainty, he encourages listeners to embrace discomfort, trust the process, and focus on taking the next step. This episode is a powerful reminder that readiness is often a myth, and that the future belongs to those willing to move forward before they feel fully prepared.You Will Learn:• Why purpose often appears during ordinary moments rather than dramatic breakthroughs• How self doubt and fear show up when you are standing near growth opportunities• Why waiting to feel ready can keep you stuck for years• The difference between confidence and commitment when pursuing a goal• How taking one imperfect step can create the momentum needed for clarity and growth---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

May 28, 2026Episode 1399 min

#139 - Thinking Clearly Through Uncertainty

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott dives into one of the biggest challenges people face during seasons of uncertainty. How do you think clearly when emotions are loud and the future feels unclear? Building off the response to his previous episode on life pivots, Scott shares the mindset shifts and practical habits he is personally using to process major decisions with intention instead of panic. From creating space and limiting distractions to seeking outside perspectives and leaning into faith, this episode is a powerful reminder that clarity rarely comes through chaosThroughout the episode, Scott explores the emotional side of transition and why so many people struggle to separate fear from truth. He talks about the importance of stepping away from digital noise, grieving old identities, and understanding that uncertainty is often part of growth. Rather than obsessing over having the entire future mapped out, Scott encourages listeners to focus on the next right step. This episode offers a grounded and thoughtful framework for navigating change with more perspective, self awareness, and trust in the process.You Will Learn:• Why most bad decisions are made from overwhelm, not lack of intelligence• How creating intentional space helps bring clarity during uncertainty• The value of outside perspective from mentors, coaches, and trusted relationships• Why fear and familiarity often keep people stuck in old identities• How to focus on the next right step instead of needing every answer upfront---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

May 26, 2026Episode 13841 min

#138 - From Layoff to Leap of Faith • Melanie Hinton

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott sits down with Melanie Hinton, co-founder of Elevanti Solutions, for a conversation centered around relationships, strategic problem solving, and building businesses through community. Melanie shares how losing her job during the wave of layoffs in the Washington, D.C. area ultimately became the catalyst for launching her own consultancy alongside her business partner. Rather than focusing solely on marketing tactics, Elevanti approaches businesses by identifying “lead leaks,” strengthening reputation and communication strategies and helping clients solve the real problems holding them back from growthThroughout the episode, Scott and Melanie dive into the power of collaboration over competition, the importance of intentional relationship building, and why personalization matters more than ever in today’s AI driven world. Melanie also shares the inspiration behind PERC, a free virtual networking community designed to bring together entrepreneurs, consultants, and small business owners from all over the world. This episode is packed with practical insight on referrals, partnerships, leadership and creating meaningful human connection in a digital age.We Dive Into:• Why most businesses do not have a lead generation problem but a “lead leak” problem• The importance of building relationships with an abundance mindset• How personalization and authenticity help businesses stand out in an AI driven world• Why strong business partnerships require complementary strengths and honest communication• How intentional networking communities can create long term opportunities and growth---Episode Markers:(0:00) - Show Start & Introduction---Melanie Hinton's Links:Website - https://www.elevantisolutions.comLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniehintonIG - https://www.instagram.com/melaniehintonElevanti Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevanti-solutionsElevanti IG - https://www.instagram.com/elevanti_solutions---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

May 21, 2026Episode 13711 min

#137 - When It’s Time to Pivot

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott tackles one of the hardest but most important questions people face in business and life. How do you know when it is time to pivot? While persistence and discipline are often praised as the keys to success, Scott explains that there is a major difference between pushing through a meaningful challenge and staying trapped in something that no longer aligns with who you are becoming. Drawing inspiration from Seth Godin’s concept of “The Dip,” he explores the tension between resilience and the wisdom required to recognize when a path has become a dead endThroughout the episode, Scott breaks down three major signs that it may be time to make a change. From internal misalignment and changing industries to fear disguised as loyalty or discipline, he challenges listeners to honestly evaluate whether they are still growing or simply holding on because change feels uncomfortable. This episode is a thoughtful and powerful reminder that some of the greatest growth in life comes not from avoiding uncertainty, but from having the courage to step into it intentionally.You Will Learn:• How to recognize the difference between a temporary “dip” and a true dead end• Why success on paper does not always equal fulfillment internally• The importance of adapting when industries and environments evolve• How fear can keep people stuck long after they know change is necessary• Why some of the best opportunities in life begin after letting go of old identities---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

May 18, 2026Episode 13652 min

#136 - The Team That Loves Mondays • Andrew Biernat

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott and Kelly sit down with Andrew Biernat, consultant, speaker, and author of "The Team That Loves Mondays", for a conversation about workplace culture, employee engagement, and what truly motivates people at work. Andrew shares how his own early career struggles led him to rethink traditional leadership and management approaches. From misalignment in corporate roles to discovering the deeper drivers behind motivation, he explains why engagement is not about perks or surface level incentives. It is about helping people feel connected, empowered, and valued in the work they doThroughout the episode, the conversation dives into leadership mistakes that quietly destroy culture, why most performance improvement plans fail and how managers can create environments where people actually want to contribute and grow. Andrew introduces his “performance enhancing vitamins” framework centered around autonomy, belonging, and competence, while also breaking down practical ways leaders can improve communication, accountability, and trust inside their organizations. This episode is packed with real world insights for anyone looking to build a healthier team culture and stronger leadership habits.You Will Learn:• Why employee engagement starts with alignment and meaningful work• The difference between managing people and truly leading them• How autonomy, belonging, and competence impact workplace motivation• Why most performance improvement plans fail to create lasting change• Practical ways leaders can improve communication, accountability, and culture---Episode Markers:(0:00) - Show Start & Introduction---Andrew Biernat's Links:Website - https://andrewbiernat.comLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewjbiernatFB - https://www.facebook.com/andrewjbiernat---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

May 14, 2026Episode 1359 min

#135 - Brand DNA

In this solo episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott breaks down one of the biggest reasons businesses struggle to generate consistent referrals. Lack of clarity. Most customers like the people they work with and trust the service they receive, but they still struggle to refer them because they cannot clearly explain what makes them different. Scott introduces the idea of “Brand DNA” and explains why every business owner needs a simple, repeatable message that clearly communicates who they help, what problem they solve, and why they stand outThroughout the episode, Scott walks listeners through practical exercises to uncover their own positioning statement and emotional brand messaging. He emphasizes that referrals are not built around products or services alone. They are built around solving emotional problems like confusion, fear, overwhelm, and uncertainty. This episode is a powerful reminder that the goal is not just to do good work. The goal is to be understood well enough that people can confidently talk about you when you are not in the room.You Will Learn:• Why confused people rarely generate referrals for your business• The three core components that make up a strong brand message• How emotional problems create stronger referral opportunities than products alone• A practical framework to create your own positioning statement and tagline• Why being different matters more than simply being “better” in a crowded market---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates

May 11, 2026Episode 13449 min

#134 - Scale & Profit • David Peterson & Alex Shattuck

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott sits down with David Peterson and Alex Shattuck for a deep conversation about what it actually takes to scale a business without becoming trapped by it. Drawing from their own experiences building multiple high performing agencies, David and Alex break down the hard lessons they learned through failure, burnout, recruiting struggles, and leadership growth. What started with door knocking, long hours, and constant chaos eventually evolved into businesses built on systems, specialization, delegation and intentional team buildingThroughout the conversation, they challenge many of the common beliefs business owners hold about scaling. Instead of trying to do everything yourself, they emphasize the importance of replacing yourself piece by piece so you can focus on the work that actually moves the business forward. From hiring assistants and building specialized teams to changing your mindset around investments and leadership, this episode is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to create more freedom, profitability, and long term growth.We Discuss:• Why most business owners stay stuck by trying to do everything themselves• The importance of building specialized teams instead of relying on generalists• How investing in people, systems, and support creates long term freedom• Why recruiting and onboarding are the foundation of scalable growth• The mindset shifts required to stop operating like an employee and start thinking like a true business owner---Episode Markers:(0:00) - Show Start & Introduction---Scale & Profit Links:Website - https://www.scaleandprofitseminar.comCoach P Website - https://coachpconsulting.comAutopilot Website - https://www.autopilotrecruiting.comCoach P IG - https://www.instagram.com/coach_p_consulting---Scott Grates' Links:Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.orgReferrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.comLove Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1Scott's - https://www.instagram.com/scottgratesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates