Pinball Nostalgia and Arcade Adventures.

The Beyond Business Podcast. Katherine Martin-Fisher interview with Richard Blank on Communication. Welcome to the Beyond Business Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of entrepreneurship and explore the secrets to building a thriving business while maintaining a fulfilling and balanced life. Hosted by Katherine Martin-Fisher, this podcast brings together successful entrepreneurs who share their personal journeys, challenges, and invaluable insights on achieving success in both business and life. Each episode features in-depth conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs from various industries, offering a unique blend of practical advice, personal anecdotes, and actionable strategies for growth. Discover the tactics and mindset shifts that have enabled these business leaders to create companies worth having while balancing the life they truly enjoy. Katherine Martin-Fisher hosts a podcast called "The Beyond Business Podcast," where she interviews entrepreneurs about their journeys and insights on building successful businesses while maintaining a balanced life. The podcast explores the challenges and strategies of entrepreneurship, offering practical advice and inspiring stories from various industries. Join Katherine Martín-Fisher as she chats with Richard Blank about his journey from Philadelphia to Costa Rica and the role of cultural language in business. Richard highlights common customer communication pitfalls, offers persuasion insights, and reflects on mentors and techniques that shaped his career. Explore international business expansion challenges, the value of a strong local team, and building ideal relationships. Richard shares advice for his younger self, lessons from mistakes, and his cultural favorites and inspirations. The episode wraps up with thoughts on authentic conversations and how to connect with Richard. (0:00) Introduction by Katherine Martín-Fisher and Guest Richard Blank (1:23) Richard's Journey from Philadelphia to Costa Rica and Embracing Cultural Language (6:29) Biggest Mistakes in Customer Communication and Keys to Persuasion (15:19) Richard's Mentors and Communication Techniques (18:53) Challenges and Rewards of International Business Expansion (21:29) Building a Strong Local Team and Ideal Business Relationships (24:18) Reflecting on Advice to Younger Self and Learning from Mistakes (29:07) Richard's Cultural Favorites and Personal Achievements (34:26) Inspirational Literature and Personal Interests (39:24) Authentic Conversations and Contacting Richard Blank Advice: Don’t Be Hard on Yourself It's got to be just a color that could just expand and make you feel good, like a warm blanket. What would that be if that was an advice you were giving yourself? And this is for the entire life, Catherine. It's just not to be hard on yourself. How could you? Imagine the decisions you made at 12 years old compared to 52. I got 40 years to learn that. I can't be hard on myself at that time. I had no idea. Customer Service: Quality Over Quantity You brought up a very important metric there, Catherine. You were talking about talk time and conversion ratios compared to the amount of calls. I could care less if you make 5,000 calls. Make me five calls as long as you're hitting it out of the park and it's a conversion. And I'm sure through the quality control department when they were studying your KPIs, you got the highest marks, not on the top 20 that you had to ask them, but the soft skills. Saying their name, repeating the information, military alphabet, landing that plane. And so that's what makes customer support incredible when you have that sort of relationship. Yes. So true. So true. Tell me, can you give us an example of the breakdown of what makes a phone conversion, a conversation truly, I meant a conversation, conversation truly persuasive? OK, time is number one, because if they hang up on you, you don't even get a chance to pitch them. So in my mind, it's like it's like anchoring. It's climbing that rock. It's buying time, having breath so you can continue distance because persuasion sometimes is making your point. Learning Rhetoric From Unlikely Mentors Of course. That's why you have the best podcast. That's a wonderful question. All right. Let me answer the first part for you. Mentors. So many. But if I have to give your audience some homework, and I'm not giving boring homework, I'm giving fun homework, I want you to watch three different things. The first thing is The A-Team. Remember that show back in the 80s? Yes. That's right. Besides Mr. T, who was the best, there was also a character called Templeton Peck. He was the face man played by the amazing actor Dirk Benedict. Study his rhetoric and skills. Now, a second actor was Pierce Brosnan as Remington Steele. Oh, what show that was with Stephanie Zimbalist. So study that rhetoric. And then the best mentor that I ever had was a gentleman by the name of Basil Rathbones. Back in the 30s and 40s, he did Sherlock Holmes with Nigel Bruce. Now, listen, Catherine, if I spoke like him, you'd be like, what's wrong with you? I don't speak Queen's English. But I tell you what, that was the sharpest knife in the sharpest tongue. And I would look up some vocabulary words and rewind the VCR. And I was like, this is incredible. I gravitated towards that advanced speech. And I realized there are people out there much more polished and clever than I am. So there's nothing wrong with borrowing a color. I mean, I didn't invent it, but I can use it through my medium. And so I was taking a lot of the things that I believed were effective and just using it. Yes, those are my mentors. Pinball Nostalgia and Arcade Adventures are you kidding come on okay listen you need to calm down now i know it's not polite to ask a lady her age but we are from the beautiful generation x and when we and when we grew up we grew up where arcades were cool That's where the games were, and $5 needed to last you a whole weekend. And I can play Asteroids for 45 minutes. Pinball machine, that 50 cents used to go away in a minute. I couldn't afford it. It was too beautiful. It was too expensive. What happened? I moved to Costa Rica, and arcades are going out of business. I have a call center with tons of space, and I was doing well. And... People are giving them away. So me, you know, Billy, Tommy, and Joey, we jump in a truck with a couple hundred bucks, drive the Perez Zelidone. I'm bringing back three pinball machines and a jukebox. And so these people are giving it away. https://youtu.be/_JueeUCgQ8c https://youtube.com/shorts/BN6GJyJgujU https://youtube.com/shorts/1xzBcKmnW0E https://youtube.com/shorts/AqaTTmTgaxk https://youtube.com/shorts/yFRURGhuz3w https://youtube.com/shorts/e4jg8M6n2js https://youtube.com/shorts/KARDYbLii_E https://youtu.be/aUDIh7yxp2k https://youtu.be/wdmv7-J_nCU https://youtu.be/ir7zL4rK9lM https://youtu.be/l3oKpavQ4JQ Richard Blank hired bassist Garry Gary Beers of INXS. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieGjN5H4xPQ The Beyond Business Podcast, Katherine Martin-Fisher, Richard Blank,Costa Rica's Call Center, Outsourcing, Telemarketing Call Centre, BPO, Nearshore Contact Center, Sales, Entrepreneur, B2B, Business, Podcast, Gamification,Leadership, Marketing, CX, Guest, Money, B2C education, BPO trainer,call centre, contact centre, contact center Richard Blank, a seasoned entrepreneur, shares a perspective that's not just about starting a business—it's about mastering the art of cross-cultural communication. The usual advice? Know the laws, get a local attorney, maybe an accountant. But Richard takes it further, suggesting that you need to surround yourself with a team in it for the long game. This isn't your typical checklist; it's about building a network that can save you money and offer invaluable advice. Too many entrepreneurs rush into international ventures unprepared, thinking they can navigate these waters solo. But Richard argues for patience and strategy—taking the time to find allies who understand the local landscape can make or break your venture. And it's not just about business success; it's about the cultural exchange, the spice you add to their stew and vice versa, leading to a fusion of ideas that can propel your business to new heights. It's a wake-up call for anyone thinking they can do it all alone in a foreign market. Are you ready to accept that challenge and see what a different world can teach you about your own? We sat down with Richard Blank to uncover his unique approach to navigating international business success – and it's not what you'd expect. Richard didn't rely solely on classroom learning to master Spanish. Instead, he immersed himself in the language through movies, books, and conversations. This wasn't just about learning a language; it was about embracing a culture. It's a lesson in going beyond the conventional to achieve clarity and reduce stress in cross-cultural communication. Richard's experience shows that preparation and passion can turn daunting challenges into manageable tasks. His story challenges the typical narrative that stress is an inevitable part of cross-cultural business. Maybe, just maybe, the key to reducing stress lies in embracing the unfamiliar and letting passion guide your path. How do you approach cross-cultural communication in your business? Ever considered that your business mentors might just be found in the unlikeliest of places? Richard Blank, on the latest episode of The Beyond Business Podcast, takes us on a nostalgic journey to uncover some unconventional mentors: TV characters from the '80s! From the suave Templeton Peck of The A-Team to the debonair Remington Steele, and even the astute Basil Rathbone's Sherlock Holmes, Richard suggests that the art of communication and business acumen can be learned from these fictional icons. It's not just about the entertainment; it's about studying their rhetoric, their style, and their confidence. This isn't your typical business advice, but maybe it should be. Because sometimes, the best lessons come wrapped in the nostalgia of a VCR tape. So, are you ready to hit rewind and learn from the past? Listen to the full episode and discover how '80s TV can shape your business mindset. We live in a world where business isn't confined by borders, yet many entrepreneurs still hesitate to take the leap. Richard Blank argues that stepping outside your comfort zone and into international waters can be the most rewarding journey you'll ever embark on. He's got a point. When you expand your business beyond your home country, it’s not just about the legalities or the logistics. It's about immersing yourself in a new culture, learning from it, and allowing it to shape your business in ways you never imagined. Richard stresses the importance of surrounding yourself with local experts—attorneys, accountants, HR specialists—who can guide you and help you make informed decisions. But here’s the kicker: being a foreigner in a new land can sharpen your instincts. It’s like adding a new spice to your business stew, enhancing the flavor and creating a unique blend of ideas. It’s not just about bringing your business to a new place, but about blending two worlds to create something extraordinary. Richard challenges entrepreneurs to embrace this cultural exchange and use it as a tool for innovation and growth. It’s about seeing your business through a different lens and letting that perspective drive you to new heights. Are you ready to add a new spice to your business stew and explore the world beyond your borders? We sat down with Richard Blank to explore the often-overlooked art of cross-cultural communication in business. You might think you're a great communicator, but are you really listening? Richard believes that businesses often miss the mark by pushing ideas without understanding if it's what the customer truly wants. He advises against compromising ethics or peace of mind for a client that doesn't align with your values. It's a bold stance, but isn't it time we consider it? Hollywood might glamorize call centers with movies like 'The Wolf of Wall Street', but Richard insists there's a world of difference between aggressive sales tactics and genuine relationship-building. Authenticity in communication is like a painting with visible brushstrokes, not a polished print. Richard's approach? Engage in the moment, love the now, and focus on building relationships through the art of conversation. It's about the magic that happens when you connect on a human level, not just closing a deal. Is it time to rethink our strategies and stop forcing squares into circles? Listen to the full episode to discover how to transform your business communication strategy. Richard Blank dropped some serious wisdom on the latest episode of The Beyond Business Podcast, and it's making me rethink how I approach my own life decisions. He talks about the importance of not being too hard on yourself for choices you made when you were younger. After all, how can you compare the decisions made at 12 to those at 52? Richard's journey is anything but ordinary. At 26, he faced a crossroads: stay in the U.S. or move to Costa Rica. He chose the road less traveled, and it wasn't just about chasing a dream—it was about mental and physical survival. He speaks to the hero's journey we all have, where we leave the comfort of the castle, slay dragons, and save the princess. It's a refreshing take on embracing your path and not succumbing to guilt or self-doubt. Richard suggests simple routines like making your bed, working out, or even washing your car as ways to reconnect with yourself and avoid getting stuck in the grind. Are you willing to take the road less traveled and slay your own dragons? Join Katherine Martin-Fisher as she unpacks the strategies and lessons learned by her guests, revealing the untold stories behind their entrepreneurial endeavors. From overcoming obstacles and embracing change to fostering resilience and maintaining work-life balance, each conversation offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike. Beyond Business Podcast is not just about achieving success in the traditional sense; it's about exploring the intersection of business and personal fulfillment. By showcasing real-life examples of entrepreneurs who have found harmony between their professional and personal lives, this podcast empowers listeners to create a life that aligns with their values and aspirations. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply seeking inspiration for a more balanced and fulfilling life, the Beyond Business Podcast is your essential guide to unlocking the secrets of entrepreneurial success and personal happiness. Tune in for engaging conversations, actionable insights, and the motivation you need to take your business and life to new heights. Our Audience Target Audience: Aspiring entrepreneurs: Individuals who are considering starting their own business and seeking inspiration, guidance, and practical advice on balancing entrepreneurship with personal fulfillment. Startup founders: Entrepreneurs in the early stages of building their companies, looking for insights on achieving a healthy work-life balance while growing their businesses. Small business owners: Owners of established small businesses seeking strategies for maintaining a balanced life while managing and expanding their ventures. Business professionals: Individuals working in the business world who are interested in entrepreneurship and learning from the experiences of successful business owners. Personal development enthusiasts: Individuals who are passionate about self-improvement, personal growth, and finding harmony between their professional and personal lives. Work-life balance seekers: Individuals who are struggling to find balance in their lives and are looking for practical tips and inspiration from entrepreneurs who have achieved a sense of harmony. Career transitioners: Individuals considering a career change or transition into entrepreneurship, seeking guidance and motivation to take the leap. The Beyond Business Podcast targets a diverse audience of individuals who share a common interest in entrepreneurship, personal fulfillment, and achieving balance in their lives. By providing engaging conversations and actionable insights from successful entrepreneurs, the podcast aims to empower and inspire listeners to create a life that aligns with their values and aspirations. What We Are Looking For In A Guest Ideal Guests: Successful entrepreneurs: Founders and CEOs of thriving businesses who have achieved a harmonious balance between their professional and personal lives, sharing their strategies and lessons learned. Business authors and thought leaders: Experts in entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal development, offering insights on balancing business success with personal fulfillment. Life coaches and mentors: Professionals who specialize in helping individuals achieve work-life balance and personal growth, providing practical tools and guidance for listeners. Wellness entrepreneurs: Founders of businesses in the wellness and mindfulness space, discussing the importance of self-care and mental well-being for entrepreneurs. Female and minority entrepreneurs: Successful business owners from diverse backgrounds, sharing their unique experiences and perspectives on balancing entrepreneurship with personal life. Work-life balance advocates: Influencers, bloggers, or public figures who actively promote the importance of achieving a healthy work-life balance. Business professors and researchers: Academics with expertise in entrepreneurship and work-life balance, offering data-driven insights and findings from their research. Successful freelancers and solopreneurs: Individuals who have built thriving businesses while maintaining a balanced lifestyle, sharing their strategies and experiences. Mental health professionals: Therapists, psychologists, or counselors who can provide insights on managing stress, preventing burnout, and maintaining mental well-being as an entrepreneur. Ideal guests for the Beyond Business Podcast are those who have valuable knowledge and experiences to share on the importance of balancing entrepreneurship with personal fulfillment. By providing diverse perspectives and practical advice, these guests can inspire and guide listeners to create a life that aligns with their values and aspirations. As a Grant Cardone 10x Certified Business Coach, I am excited to help businesses scale by helping them solve their 3 main problems. 1. Cash Flow 2. Sales 3. Marketing As a bonus: 4. Company Culture We do this through using 1. Proven learning systems 2. Accountability 3. Community of like minded business owners with Big Think Mindset and bringing them together. Through collaboration and Mastermind groups. 4. Showing you how to create targets and hit or exceed them. Richard's journey in the call center space is filled with twists and turns. When he was 27 years old, he relocated to Costa Rica to train employees for one of the larger call centers in San Jose. With a mix of motivational public speaking style backed by tactful and appropriate rhetoric, he shared his knowledge and trained over 10 000 bilingual telemarketers. Richard Blank is the Chief Executive Officer for Costa Rica s Call Center since 2008. Richard Blank has the largest collection of restored American Pinball machines and antique Rockola Jukeboxes in Central America making gamification a strong part of CCC culture. Mr. Richard Blank holds a bachelors degree in Communication and Spanish from the University of Arizona and a certificate of language proficiency from the University of Sevilla, Spain. A Keynote speaker for Philadelphia's Abington High School 68th National Honors Society induction ceremony. In addition, inducted into the 2023 Hall of Fame for Business. Giving back to Abington Senior High School is very important to Mr. Blank. As such, he endows a scholarship each year for students that plan on majoring in a world language at the university level. Costa Rica s Call Center (CCC) is a state of the art BPO telemarketing outsource company located in the capital city of San Jose, Costa Rica. Our main focus has been, and will always be to personally train each and every Central America call center agent so that we may offer the highest quality of outbound and inbound telemarketing solutions and bilingual customer service to small and medium sized international companies, entrepreneurs as well as fortune 500 companies. We encourage you to visit one of our call centers on your next personal vacation or business trip to Central America s paradise, Costa Rica. While you are here, we would recommend taking an extra day of your trip to visit breathtaking virgin beaches, play golf next to the ocean, try your luck at deep sea fishing, explore tropical jungles, climb volcanos or just relax in natural hot springs. Come and see for yourself why call center outsourcing in Costa Rica is a perfect solution for your growing company and a powerhouse in the BPO industry. https://costaricascallcenter.com/en/outbound-bpo-campaigns/ #TheBeyondBusinessPodcast #KatherineMartinFisher #RichardBlank #CostaRica #CallCenter #Outsourcing #Telemarketing #BPO #Sales #Entrepreneur #B2B #Business #Podcast #Gamification #CEO #trend #trending #listennow #subscribe #podcastclip #podcastvideo #videopodcasting #podcastguest.#CostaRicaCallCenter #LifeReinvention #SalesLeadership #PinballCEO #TelemarketingMastery #PodcastEpisode