The Third Growth Option with Benno Duenkelsbuehler and Guests

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Inspired by Cincinnati’s historic Findlay Market, I pulled together three simple but powerful tools that help any leader (not just product managers) contribute to product strategy. These frameworks create a shared language that makes cross-functional collaboration easier across sales, finance, ops, and product. • Two-by-Two Matrix → Map your assortment across basic vs. seasonal and core vs. fashion to see risk distribution at a glance • Product Development Calendars → Gantt-style visuals show overlapping processes so bottlenecks don’t sneak up on you • Scatter Graphs → Plot products to spot market gaps, competitive positions, and balance in your portfolio When leaders have the right visual frameworks, silos break down, conversations flow, and assortment decisions become smarter. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Branding isn’t about logos or colors—it’s about making a compelling promise and consistently delivering on it. The simple definition “Compelling Promise Delivered” shifts branding from a surface-level exercise to a true growth driver. Key takeaways: • Brand = promise; without clarity, success is impossible • Branding has two sides: customer-facing (promise) and operations-facing (delivery) • Strong brands invest time in refining their promises for better positioning What do you think—does your brand clearly articulate a promise and consistently deliver? Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Strategic planning works best when you treat it as two jobs: setting the big vision and mapping the step-by-step path to get there. The right framework—whether EOS, OGSP, or the 1-2-3 process—can make the difference between plans that collect dust and plans that actually deliver results. • Separate “where we’re going” (strategy) from “how we’ll get there” (execution) • Bring 5–12 people who cover your customer, operations, and finance angles • Communicate with the 3 I’s: inform → involve → inspire • Line up quick wins first so you build momentum while bigger projects take shape • Roll out with a crawl-walk-run pace—don’t sprint into burnout • Skip the usual traps: fuzzy communication and impossible deadlines What’s worked—or flopped—for you in strategic planning? Let’s swap notes. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Brand Mockup/Customer Journey (CMO); P&L Forecast (CFO); Process Flowchart (COO) At the heart of successful business expansion are three essential perspectives that we explore in depth. customer lens financial lensemployee lens By viewing potential growth through these three complementary lenses simultaneously, business leaders gain a comprehensive understanding of what's required for successful expansion into adjacent categories or new distribution channels. Subscribe now to learn how to apply this powerful framework to your business and unlock growth opportunities you might be missing. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? We all get stuck—it’s part of growth. But getting unstuck doesn’t mean charging ahead blindly. Often, the smartest move is to pause, zoom out, and chart a clearer path forward. Here’s a quick breakdown of how the 1-2-3 Growth Process helps turn inertia into momentum: The magic is in breaking big goals into bite-sized actions—structured enough to keep you on track, flexible enough to adapt as you go. What’s working for you and your team when it comes to getting unstuck? Let’s share ideas. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? The growth strategy you’ve trusted for years might be the very thing keeping your business stuck. Most companies default to a binary choice: Organic growthAcquisitionBut both come with real headaches—breaking down internal silos, aligning teams, post-merger chaos... Sound familiar? There’s a Third Growth Option—and it’s driving results that traditional methods miss. I’ve seen it add $26M in revenue by expanding a lighting company into furniture, and double a factory’s revenue just by fixing how they go to market. This approach focuses on three high-impact levers: Expanding into adjacent product categoriesTapping new distribution channelsSharpening your go-to-market executionThe beauty? You can build this engine without burning out your core team—because it runs alongside your day-to-day ops, not instead of them. If your business is plateauing—or if growth feels like pushing a boulder uphill—this might be the framework you’ve been missing. Let’s talk about what’s getting in your way and how this Third Growth Option could unlock your next leap. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? After 16 years running a growth agency and 160+ podcast episodes, I've encountered countless questions about business growth from where to start to how to break cross-functional gridlock. Season 3 is all about answering those questions. Drop me a line in the comments section at Benno@reALIGNforResults.com with questions for this season's The Growth Climbers Toolbox. Looking forward to what this season will bring! Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? After 16 years running a growth agency and 160+ podcast episodes, I've encountered countless questions about business growth from where to start to how to break cross-functional gridlock. Season 3 is all about answering those questions. Drop me a line in the comments section at Benno@reALIGNforResults.com with questions for this season's The Growth Climbers Toolbox. Looking forward to what this season will bring! Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? After 16 years running a growth agency and 160+ podcast episodes, I've encountered countless questions about business growth from where to start to how to break cross-functional gridlock. Season 3 is all about answering those questions. Drop me a line in the comments section at Benno@reALIGNforResults.com with questions for this season's The Growth Climbers Toolbox. Looking forward to what this season will bring! Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Dawn Grooters and Benno Duenkelsbuehler explore the challenges and strategies of marketing your own business as two business owners who help companies grow, yet struggle with their own messaging. • Authenticity in business requires balancing personal vulnerability with professional messaging • Your message may feel repetitive to you, but most of your audience is hearing it for the first time • Focus on your "smallest viable audience" rather than trying to appeal to everyone • Taking imperfect action beats waiting for perfection - Dawn launched her podcast without knowing all the technical details • Feel the fear and do it anyway - every successful business owner pushes through uncertainty Connect with Dawn at brokenvesselsales.com or find her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook as Dawn Groters. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Marty Shapiro, COO of LAFCO New York, explores how luxury fragrance brands can grow their reach while maintaining their special appeal in today's evolving retail landscape. He shares strategies for creating consistent brand experiences across multiple channels while preserving the essence of luxury. • Consistency across all touchpoints is crucial for maintaining brand identity • Zip code protection is becoming obsolete as consumer shopping habits evolve • Product placement should be strategic rather than limited by traditional exclusivity rules • Context matters when displaying luxury products across different retail environments • A failed brand extension taught valuable lessons about customer perception • The product must be amazing, but telling its story is equally important Email Marty at martys@lafco.com or find him on LinkedIn to continue the conversation on luxury brand growth. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Growth isn't just about getting bigger—it's about getting better. This episode explores how blending expertise with entrepreneurial energy can lead to more meaningful business outcomes. We cover: Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN reALIGNforResults.com benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? We explore how to approach and engage in uncomfortable conversations that can ultimately lead to valuable insights and business growth. Through thoughtful discussion with Cody Seaber, we highlight the importance of understanding human psychology, building trust, and embracing tension in communication. • Discussing the impact of discomfort on business conversations • Challenging the status quo for growth opportunities • Understanding diverse perspectives through the sphere of reference • Acknowledging and owning conflict and tension in discussions • Strategies for building and maximizing trust with clients • Emphasizing authenticity in professional interactions • Navigating the timing of conversations for effective outcomes Visit our website reALIGNforResults.com to learn more about how we can assist you in navigating uncomfortable topics for business growth and success. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? This episode explores the journey of George White, a serial entrepreneur who shares insights on the power of storytelling, creativity, and structured processes in driving business growth. Listeners will learn about the importance of customer needs, effective communication, and the cautious use of AI in marketing and manufacturing. • The significance of creating connections in unexpected places • Balancing creativity with technical processes in diverse industries • The transformative impact of customer-focused solutions • Emphasizing effective communication and process documentation • Caution and opportunity in the integration of AI in business • Finding wisdom in networking and unexpected paths to success Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? This episode highlights the vital role of branding in attracting and retaining top talent in today's job market. Colleen Pfaller discusses insights from an employee value perception study, emphasizing the importance of authentic employer branding and cultural contribution. • Understanding the evolving role of HR in attracting talent • Insights from the employee value perception study • Employees prioritize brands they identify with • The importance of authentic branding over superficial perceptions • Culture as a dynamic aspect needing nurturing and growth • Emphasizing cultural contribution rather than mere fit • The challenge of building a unique brand in a competitive market • Strategies for aligning employer branding with company values • Cultivating an authentic and engaging workplace environment • Encouragement to rethink branding strategies for better retention Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Understanding the complexities of selling a business can be daunting for entrepreneurs, but this episode dives deep into M&A processes, from initial evaluations to closing the deal. With actionable insights and real-world success stories, this discussion illuminates the journey of preparing your business for sale. • Importance of understanding motivations behind selling • Basics of initial evaluations and financial assessments • The role of branding and culture in business value • Identifying and managing potential risk factors • Key components of business valuation and EBITDA overview • Steps to prepare for an effective sales process • Crafting targeted marketing materials for prospective buyers • Insights on Letters of Intent and due diligence • Strategies for improving business readiness for sale • Success stories that demonstrate transformative outcomes Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? This week's episode emphasizes the critical need for future-focused leadership in evolving business landscapes. Dev Patnaik discusses the pitfalls of present-centric thinking and offers practical strategies for balancing immediate tasks with future opportunities, underscoring that successful leaders look beyond the now to innovate and adapt. • Importance of future-focused leadership • Risks of being present-centric during rapid change • Implementing a time diet to prioritize future tasks • Neuroplasticity's role in shifting leadership mindsets • Divergence and convergence in innovation processes • Learning from failures of companies like Kodak and Blockbuster • Strategies successful leaders use to anticipate change Thank you for listening to this episode of TGO Podcast. You can find all episodes on our podcast page at www.reALIGNforResults.com. You can find me, Benno, host of TGO Podcast, there as well. Just email Benno@reALIGNforResults.com. Let's keep growing. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? Explore how AI is reshaping revenue growth strategies in this insightful conversation with Cliff Farrah, Accenture's Chief Strategy Officer for Corporate Strategy and Growth. Here’s what’s in store: AI and Human Expertise:Game-Changing Investments:Support for Midsize Businesses:Preparing for the Future:This episode dives into the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into business, offering practical insights for anyone navigating the rapidly evolving world of strategy and growth. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? In this episode, I sit down with design strategist Jonah Burlingame to tackle the art (and challenges) of executing successful strategies in digital product development. Here are the key takeaways: Strategy Execution is Tough:The 369 Approach:Blending Disciplines:AI in Action:Whether you’re navigating strategy execution or exploring the future of AI in digital products, this conversation is packed with insights to help you drive innovation and deliver real impact. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com

Are you looking for a Third Growth Option ℠ ? In this episode, sales and marketing expert Lisa DiCostanzo breaks down the transformation of the retail landscape, especially in the gift and home decor sectors, into a complex, multi-channel experience. Key insights include: - Omni-Channel Strategy: Retailers are merging online platforms with in-person events like trade shows to create seamless shopping experiences. Vendors can support this by turning their websites into powerful resources that help sales teams become trusted partners for retailers. - Digital Shift in Customer Service: With traditional customer service evolving digitally, Lisa shares how this change impacts buyer-seller relationships and how companies can successfully blend online and personal interactions. - Leadership Through Change: Guiding teams through nearly two decades of industry shifts, Lisa emphasizes the importance of leadership in adapting to meet new customer expectations. - Pandemic-Driven Innovation: COVID-19 spurred independent retailers to adopt new sales approaches, ultimately creating benefits for both retailers and consumers. Tune in to learn how to stay adaptable and competitive in today’s ever-evolving retail environment. Always growing. Benno Duenkelsbuehler CEO & Chief Sherpa of (re)ALIGN benno@realignforresults.com