In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Venezuelan-born entrepreneur Sebastian Hidalgo to explore innovative and ethical sales strategies that defy the “used car salesman” stereotype. Sebastian Hidalgo unveils his SWAT sales system, developed from hostage negotiation and psychological operations, and shares how his approach drives extraordinary results in competitive markets. Together, they discuss the impact of AI on sales, empowering technical founders, and redefining what it means to succeed in modern business. This episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs, consultants, and sales professionals seeking unconventional paths to success.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• How hostage negotiation tactics can ethically boost your sales
• Why effective sales is an act of service, not manipulation
• The SWAT sales system: Empathy, diagnosis, and trust-building over pressure tactics
• Navigating AI in sales—how staying human sets you apart
• Empowering non-sales founders to confidently charge what they’re worth
• Making the shift from “doing” to delegating as you grow your business
• Reframing business success and common advice that backfires

Connect with Sebastian Hidalgo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-dp-hidalgo/

Level up your sales game! Learn more about the SWAT sales system and how to close extraordinary deals—connect with Sebastian Hidalgo on LinkedIn.

Rethink your approach—embrace the art of ethical influence and put trust at the heart of your business.

Ready to transform your founder mindset? Listen to this episode and discover why separation between self-worth and pricing is key!

Episode transcript:

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes international speaker, bestselling author, and confidence coach Simone Knego to the show. Discover how Simone Knego empowers women to overcome self-doubt, build unshakable confidence, and lead with authenticity in every aspect of life and business. Through her unique philosophy of kitchen table leadership, Simone Knego shares actionable strategies and stories that inspire sustainable growth and meaningful success beyond conventional measures.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is kitchen table leadership and why it matters
• Understanding and overcoming self-doubt in women and entrepreneurs
• How to reframe your self-talk for genuine confidence
• Why confidence is a skill—practical ways to build it
• The transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone
• Redefining success: happiness over titles and dollar signs
• The REAL Method framework: Respect yourself, Embrace failures, Ask what you want, Live without limits
• Why setting boundaries is crucial for intentional growth
• New book: Real Confidence and upcoming programs
• The importance of storytelling and helping women thrive

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Simone Knego’s website- https://simoneknego.com
• Real Confidence book
• Her Unshakable Confidence Podcast

Level up your leadership—practice the REAL Method today!

Pre-order Simone Knego’s upcoming book "Real Confidence" for frameworks and bonus content

Sign up for group coaching or masterminds and step outside your comfort zone

Episode transcript:

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insightful episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with equity strategist and executive coach Danielle Marshall to unpack the practical realities of fostering inclusion and navigating polarization in today’s business world. Danielle Marshall, founder of Culture Principles, shares actionable strategies for organizations seeking to move beyond buzzwords like DEI and embrace authentic, effective culture change. The conversation covers everything from communication basics and accountability to curiosity as a leadership tool—highlighting what it takes to create trust, resilience, and lasting success within diverse teams.

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• How to coach and communicate effectively in a polarized environment
• Why language matters less than commitment in diversity, equity, and inclusion work
• Re-framing accountability and grace within team cultures
• Moving past “toxic workplace” labels—designing intentional, thriving cultures
• The strategic use of curiosity: from soft skill to powerful change agent
• Tackling perfectionism and paternalism in leadership
• Operationalizing core values instead of just naming them
• Community engagement: asset-based approaches for nonprofit and corporate work
• Defining and measuring success as a modern leader

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• LinkedIn: Danielle Marshall
• Danielle Marshall’s Playbook on Curiosity for Difficult Conversations: https://www.culture-principles.com/resources/the-curiosity-playbook/
• TEDx Talk by Danielle Marshall: https://youtu.be/JFP8D4Ymlu0?si=K5-NGXk2wUXySpmm

Download Danielle Marshall’s curiosity playbook to transform your next tough conversation!

Reflect on your organization: Are you fostering accountability and curiosity, or just naming values? Start a team conversation today!

Episode transcript:

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.