Épisodes

  • Clarity, Grit, and Kilimanjaro: Leading with Purpose featuring John Donnelly | The Leadership Toolkit

    Clarity, Grit, and Kilimanjaro: Leading with Purpose featuring John Donnelly | The Leadership Toolkit
    Jul 24 2025

    In this powerful episode of The Leadership Toolkit, host Mike Phillips sits down with John Donnelly, Executive Director at Service First Mortgage Company (SFMC) and a high-performance sales leader known for building elite mortgage teams with clarity, trust, and consistent execution.


    John shares his incredible leadership journey — from weathering economic headwinds in the mortgage industry to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro as a personal mission of reinvention. Learn how returning to the basics, staying teachable, and leading with intention can fuel both personal growth and professional success.


    🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can Use

    ✅ Going back to the basics: why human connection still wins

    ✅ Engagement over activity: using social media with purpose

    ✅ Why staying teachable keeps leaders relevant

    ✅ How to protect your time and build high-value relationships

    ✅ “You lose inspiration if you wait” — the power of taking action and setting audacious goals


    Whether you're leading a team, building a business, or climbing your own personal mountain, this episode is packed with practical insights and leadership fire you don’t want to miss!


    Contact Information:
    John Donnelly

    Email: JDonnelly@sfmc.com

    Linkedin: Linkedin.com/in/TheJohnDonnelly

    Web: https://sfmc.com/playbig


    Mike Phillips

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadershipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadershipTLT⁠

    YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillips


    Credits:

    Hosted by Mike Phillips

    Produced by The Leadership Toolkit Team

    Guest: John Donnelly, High-Performance Sales Leader, Mortgage Lender, and Kilimanjaro Conqueror


    Watch more episodes of The Leadership Toolkit at: https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.com


    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a 5-star review!


    Make sure to share this as a resource with friends and colleagues.


    Thank you for watching and listening!


    Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.


    Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    53 min
  • Leadership Secrets for Growing Your Potential | Guest: Nicolai Nielsen

    Leadership Secrets for Growing Your Potential | Guest: Nicolai Nielsen
    Jul 16 2025
    Welcome to The Leadership Toolkit with Mike Phillips, where this week’s guest is Nikolai Nielsen, founder of Potential Academy. Join us as we explore leadership growth, the importance of bringing others along in your journey, and Nikolai's fascinating background in consulting and personal development. With insights drawn from his experience across the globe, Nikolai shares his philosophy on education, inspiration, and the essential skills for effective leadership today.One of the standout themes of the discussion was the importance of being an "evolved human." According to Nikolai, effective leadership starts with qualities that transcend industries and roles:🔵 Self-awareness: Understanding your strengths, weaknesses, and values.🔵 Humility: Being open to feedback and willing to adapt.🔵 Compassion: Building meaningful connections with those you lead.🔵 Active listening: Truly hearing others to foster trust and collaboration.🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can Use1️⃣ Embrace Self-Awareness: Evolving as a leader means recognizing one’s own strengths and weaknesses. Gamify your personal development—do something small today that leads to growth in a week.2️⃣ Value Feedback: Implement 360-degree assessments to learn about your leadership style and not just on an annual basis. More frequent input can help steer your course in the right direction.3️⃣ Be Bold: Allow yourself to dare big dreams. Reflect on where you wish to be in the next three years and align that with the vision for your team or organization.4️⃣ Cultivate a Feedback Culture: Instilling a responsive feedback system leads to engaged employees and keeps the organization aligned with market demands creating rolling visions of a successful future.5️⃣ Prioritize Human Connection: People-centric leadership forms the cornerstone for designing friendly work experiences. Nurturing an environment where people can grow together translates into improved group synergy.Explore how you can elevate your leadership skills and personal development journey with Potential Academy's courses. Don't wait—visit their website to learn more and get started on your path to becoming a more effective leader today!Contact Information:Nicolai NielsenLinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/NicolaiCN/Web: Potential Academy Mike PhillipsEmail: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadershipTLT⁠YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillipsCredits:Hosted by Mike PhillipsProduced by The Leadership Toolkit TeamGuest: Nikolai Nielsen, Founder of Potential Academy and leadership expert.Watch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.comIf you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5-star review!Make sure you share this as a resource with friends and colleagues. Thank you for watching and listening!* Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.*** Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    52 min
  • 5 Leadership Practices You Can Start Today! | The Leadership Toolkit hosted by Mike Phillips

    5 Leadership Practices You Can Start Today! | The Leadership Toolkit hosted by Mike Phillips
    Jul 9 2025

    Welcome to another powerful episode of the Leadership Toolkit! In today's show, Mike unpacks five actionable practices that can elevate your leadership skills immediately. Drawing from over 100 interviews with successful leaders across various industries, this episode is packed with insights to help you lead with intentionality, build trust through empathy, and create a supportive environment for your team. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, tune in for practical advice that can transform your leadership style!


    🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can Use

    1️⃣ Foster Intentionality: Spend five minutes every morning identifying your goals for the day, it sets the tone for intentional action.

    2️⃣ Deepen Empathy: Engage actively by asking meaningful questions and listening deeply to foster trust.

    3️⃣ Recognition Matters: Commit to providing specific and genuine praise to elevate team morale and productivity.

    4️⃣ Inquire Before Advising: Cultivate critical thinking skills in your team with clarifying questions before jumping into solutions.

    5️⃣ Own The Mirror Moment: Run through reflective questions to sharpen your self-awareness and prepare for better decisions in the future.


    Resources Mentioned:

    - The Leadership Toolkit Blog: [Link]

    - Recommended Leadership Books: [Link]


    Call to Action:

    Help the Leadership Toolkit grow by leaving a thumbs-up wherever you listen! Share this episode with someone who is looking to enhance their leadership skills or now needs a little motivation. You can impact someone's journey today!


    Mike Phillips

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadershipTLT⁠

    YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillips


    Credits:

    Hosted by Mike Phillips

    Produced by The Leadership Toolkit Team


    Watch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.com


    If you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5-star review!


    Make sure you share this as a resource with friends and colleagues.

    Thank you for watching and listening!


    * Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.


    *** Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    27 min
  • Break Free from Fire Drill Culture | The Leadership Toolkit | Guest: Brad Englert

    Break Free from Fire Drill Culture | The Leadership Toolkit | Guest: Brad Englert
    Jul 2 2025
    Welcome to another awesome episode of The Leadership Toolkit! Today, we're thrilled to have Brad Englert, a seasoned leader with over 40 years of experience in management and consulting, share his journey and insights. From his early days at Accenture to transforming IT at the University of Texas, Brad discusses the importance of strategic planning, creating a proactive culture, and building genuine relationships in leadership. Tune in to learn how to elevate your leadership game and foster a successful environment for your team.🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can Use1️⃣ Stop patching and start planning: Develop a clear strategy, involve stakeholders, and follow through with a realistic budget.2️⃣ Build relationships intentionally: Focus on the people and connections that matter most to your success.3️⃣ Lead with humility and authenticity: Whether it’s apologizing for mistakes or supporting your team’s growth, show that you care deeply about the people around you.4️⃣ Empower your team: Identify future leaders and give them opportunities to take on meaningful roles.5️⃣ Communicate consistently: Keep an open line of communication with your team, customers, and vendors to ensure alignment and trust.Resources Mentioned:- Brad Englert's Website: [BradEnglert.com]- Free sample of Brad's book "Spheres of Influence": [Link]- Buy Brad's Book here: [Link]If you're ready to elevate your leadership skills and foster a thriving environment for your team, subscribe to the Leadership Toolkit podcast for more valuable insights and actionable strategies. Check out Brad's resources and start implementing new tactics today!Contact Information:Brad EnglertEmail: Brad@BradEnglert.comLinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/Brad-Englert-3b886b21/Mike PhillipsEmail: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠@TheLeadershipToolkit⁠YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillipsCredits:Hosted by Mike PhillipsProduced by The Leadership Toolkit TeamGuest Speaker: Brad Englert, Leadership Consultant and AuthorWatch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.comIf you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5-star review!Make sure you share this as a resource with friends and colleagues. Thank you for watching and listening!* Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.*** Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    46 min
  • Leadership Secrets: How to Thrive and Find Your Flow | Guest: Bobby Dutton

    Leadership Secrets: How to Thrive and Find Your Flow | Guest: Bobby Dutton
    Jun 18 2025
    In this episode of the Leadership Toolkit, host Mike Phillips dives deep with Bobby Dutton, a dynamic entrepreneur and the mastermind behind Groove Boston Mission 6 (GBM6). Bobby shares his unique journey from DJing college parties to orchestrating legendary events while embracing the principles of effective leadership. Discover how he navigated challenges, built a successful team, and what inspired the creation of his new brand, "Think Like a Pilot." If you’re looking to elevate your leadership skills and drive success in your career, tune in!🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can UseArticulate Your Mission: Understand the significance of defining your organization's "why," "how," and "what" to foster clarity in leadership. Write these down. Consistently revisit it for alignment. Strong missions anchor you in tumultuous times.Prioritize Effectively: Develop tools and routines that allow your focus on "aviate, navigate, communicate" in crisis situations. It’s not chaotic—it's strategic.Assess and Embrace Your Team's Signals: Create a metrics system to measure your team's happiness, stress, and productivity. Identify problems before they escalate, just like a flight checklist identifies potential issues.Pursue Flow: Define areas in your work that yield flow. Plan regular time to engage in these tasks for sustainable productivity and happiness.Growth in Team Dynamics: Foster an organizational culture that puts happiness first. Connection, trust, and empathy contribute toward healthier workplace environments and performance.Resources Mentioned: - Bobby Dutton's Website: [BobbyDutton.com]- Think Like a Pilot: [ThinkLikeAPilot.com]- Groove Boston Mission 6: [GBM6]If you’re inspired by Bobby’s insights and want to enhance your leadership journey, reach out to him via his website. Explore his keynotes and resources to learn how to elevate your organization’s success. Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit!Contact Information:Bobby DuttonEmail: bdutton@gbm6.comLinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/BobbyDuttonMike PhillipsEmail: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadTheTeam⁠YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillipsCredits:Hosted by Mike PhillipsProduced by The Leadership Toolkit TeamGuest Speaker: Bobby Dutton, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Flight InstructorWatch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.comIf you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5-star review!Make sure you share this as a resource with friends and colleagues. Thank you for watching and listening!* Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.*** Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    1 h et 1 min
  • Unlocking Leadership Success: Strategies For REAL Results | Guest: Frank Carone

    Unlocking Leadership Success: Strategies For REAL Results | Guest: Frank Carone
    Jun 11 2025

    Welcome to the Leadership Toolkit, where host Mike Phillips interviews transformative leaders each week. In this episode, Mike sits down with Frank Carone, an attorney, public affairs strategist, and founder of Oaktree Solutions. Frank shares his inspiring journey from the gritty streets of Canarsie, Brooklyn, to his impactful roles in government and business, including serving as Chief of Staff to NYC Mayor Eric Adams. Join them for an engaging discussion on leadership growth, overcoming perceived limitations, and the importance of strategic partnerships.


    🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can Use

    1️⃣ Define Meaningful Goals: Clarity leads to action. Establish measurable objectives and define what success looks like.

    2️⃣ Embrace Active Listening: Cultivate strategic empathy by engaging fully—ask questions and rebuild connections within your team.

    3️⃣ Lean Into Relationship Building: Create an influential list and engage with proactive intent around shared, mutual interests to foster fruitful partnerships.

    4️⃣ Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Shift your approach from fearing failure to welcoming it as part of the learning journey. Never stop pursuing knowledge or experience.

    5️⃣ Take Action without Delay: Execution speaks volumes; initiate today, refining the goalposts of your success as you continue to evolve.


    Dive deeper into leadership insights and strategies by connecting with Frank Carone. Check out his book "Everyone Wins" and explore the valuable resources available on his website. Unlock your potential and become the leader you aspire to be.


    Contact Information:

    Frank V. Carone

    Web: Oaktree Solutions

    Book: Everyone Wins


    Mike Phillips

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadTheTeam⁠

    YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillips

    Credits:

    Hosted by Mike Phillips

    Produced by The Leadership Toolkit Team

    Guest: Frank Carone, Attorney & Founder of Oaktree Solutions


    Watch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.com


    If you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5-star review!

    Make sure you share this as a resource with friends and colleagues.

    Thank you for watching and listening!


    * Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.


    *** Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    46 min
  • Rise, Fall, and Rebuild: Ultimate Guide to Entrepreneurial Resilience | Guest: Mat Koenig

    Rise, Fall, and Rebuild: Ultimate Guide to Entrepreneurial Resilience | Guest: Mat Koenig
    Jun 4 2025

    Entrepreneurship is a journey of highs and lows, and in this special 2-year anniversary episode of The Leadership Toolkit we dive into powerful insights about risk-taking, resilience, and rebuilding after hitting rock bottom. Join host Mike Phillips and his guest, entrepreneur and business leader Mat Koenig, as they share raw stories of navigating failure, the importance of humility, and finding the courage to start again.


    What an amazing and raw show to celebrate two years of The Leadership Toolkit!


    Whether you're a leader, creator, or aspiring entrepreneur, this candid conversation will inspire you to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and lead with authenticity. Don’t miss this celebration of perseverance and growth—watch now and take your leadership toolkit to the next level!


    🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can Use

    1️⃣ Desperation Breeds Humility: Many need that kick-from-behind moment to align with their true calling. Allow adversity to propel you back into the front.

    2️⃣ Mitigate Your Ego: Know that confidence doesn't equate to arrogance. Balance your self-belief with openness to growth. Admitting when help is needed doesn’t diminish your worth—it enhances it.

    3️⃣ Expectations Matter: Establish and maintain clear expectations. Foster relationships rooted in accountability, ensuring everyone is pulling in the same direction.

    4️⃣ Value Genuine Connections: Your relationships have far-reaching impacts. They could easily hold the keys to new partnerships, collaborations, or advances.

    5️⃣ Expect Luck to Play a Role: Sometimes it’s not just your preparation and determination. Accept that a bit of grace can spark opportunities.


    #LeadershipToolkit #MikePhillips #MatKoenig #FaithInBusiness #AILeadership #RockStarLeadership #EntrepreneurMindset #SalesInnovation #LeadTheTeam #AuthenticLeadership #AIForSales #LeadershipPodcast


    Contact Information:

    Mat Koenig

    Email: Mat@RockStarInfo.com

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/realMatKoenig

    Web: RockStarInfo.com


    Mike Phillips

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadTheTeam⁠

    YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillips


    Credits:

    Hosted by Mike Phillips

    Produced by The Leadership Toolkit Team

    Guest: Mat Koenig, Rockstar entrepreneur and leadership expert


    Watch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.com

    If you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5-star review!

    Make sure you share this as a resource with friends and colleagues.


    Thank you for watching and listening!


    * Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.


    *** Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    1 h et 11 min
  • From Executive Assistant to CEO: How Kash Rocheleau Redefined Leadership | The Leadership Toolkit

    From Executive Assistant to CEO: How Kash Rocheleau Redefined Leadership | The Leadership Toolkit
    May 28 2025
    In this episode of the Leadership Toolkit, host Mike Phillips welcomes Kash Rocheleau, the CEO of Icon Foods, to share her unconventional journey from stay-at-home mom to Chief Financial Officer and now CEO. Kash discusses the importance of curiosity in leadership, the value of mentorship, and how empathy plays a crucial role in communication across generations in the workplace. Listeners will gain insights into navigating corporate hierarchies, the significance of understanding the 'why' behind tasks, and practical advice for cultivating a creative and purpose-driven work environment.🧰 Tools of the Trade: Top Takeaways You Can Use1️⃣ Embrace Your Unique Story: Don’t feel pressured to compare your journey to others—create your path and lead with intention.2️⃣ Lead with Empathy: Foster relationships based on connection rather than authority through empathy and open communication regarding your ‘why.’3️⃣ Collaboration is Key to Responsiveness: Engage in solutions that offer productive dialogues between leaders and subordinates, enabling collaborative and flexible structure.4️⃣ Foster a Culture of Curiosity: Innovate around problem-solving, and emphasize ongoing creative initiatives to adapt in tough regulatory frameworks.5️⃣ Visibility Matters: Maintain watchful investment in intimate parts of your team dynamics, harnessing leadership shared engagement to motivate productivity.Resources Mentioned:- Icon Foods website: IconFoods.com- Cash Rochelau LinkedIn: [Link]Explore more insights on leadership by subscribing to The Leadership Toolkit podcast. Follow us for valuable tips on personal and professional growth, and connect with industry leaders like Cash for a deeper understanding of effective leadership practices.Contact Information:Kash RocheleauWebsite:⁠ IconFoods.comLinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/Kash-Rocheleau-a0678528⁠Facebook: Facebook.com/IconFoodsIngredients⁠Instagram: Instagram.com/Icon_Foods/⁠Mike PhillipsEmail: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadTheTeam⁠YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillipsCredits:Hosted by Mike PhillipsProduced by The Leadership Toolkit TeamGuest Speaker: Kash Rocheleau, CEO of Icon Foods, with a robust background in financial operations and leadership.Watch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.comIf you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5-star review!Make sure you share this as a resource with friends and colleagues. Thank you for watching and listening!* Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this show are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, producers, or any affiliated parties. The host and production team make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information discussed by guests on the show. Listener discretion is advised.*** Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links listed go to my websites and some are affiliate links that may generate me a sales commission if you make a purchase.
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    49 min