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In this conversation, Karen Kelly, founder and CEO of K2 Performance Consulting and the K2 Sales Academy shares how she found her way into sales and why the pushy salesperson stereotype still holds so many people back. We talk about mindset as the real driver of performance, how emotional intelligence builds trust without weakening the close, and why so-called soft skills often lead to stronger results.

Karen walks through her three-part approach to getting stalled deals moving again, starting with how salespeople show up mentally before applying tactics or tools.

This episode takes a practical, straightforward look at selling in a way that feels human, confident, and sustainable.

About Karen Kelly:

Karen Kelly is a seasoned sales professional with a passion for empowering sales professionals and business owners to achieve sales excellence. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Karen has honed her skills as a dynamic sales trainer, coach and speaker to help sales professionals unlock their full potential. Karen brings a unique blend of expertise, energy, and practicality to her clients. She understands the challenges faced by sales and business owners firsthand. Her sessions are known to rehumanize the sales process. Instilling belief, actions and confidence that drive tangible results for her clients.

Reach Kelly:

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Want to be more successful, make more sales and grow your business? If so, you'll love this podcast. In this show, I (Kay Miller, aka "Muffler Mama,") interview superstar women from all industries. Their experience and advice will give you specific tools you can use to enjoy Uncopyable success. I earned the nickname “Muffler Mama" when sold more automotive mufflers than anyone in the world, and I've been a successful entrepreneur for over 30 years. During that time, I (along with my husband, Steve) have generated 8 figures in revenue for our business. Besides hosting this podcast, I'm an author, speaker, coach, consultant and most importantly....Kelly's mom.

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Uncopyable Sales Secrets (Book by Kay Miller)

Uncopyable You (Book co-authored with Steve Miller)

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Contact:
kay@beuncopyable.com
linkedin.com/in/millerkay

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In this episode, Leslie Lautenslager takes on my five signature “fun fact questions,” giving us a peek at the heart behind her incredible journey:

• What did you want to be when you grew up?
• What’s something you still want to do?
• What do you love most about yourself?
• What’s one thing you’d like to change?
• And… your favorite vacation spot?

See the person behind the protocol in this quick, candid conversation. You won’t want to miss it!

About Leslie Lautenslager:

Leslie Lautenslager is a distinguished protocol expert with a career spanning over three decades of high-level diplomacy and international relations. Beginning her journey in 1986 at Blair House, she managed state visits and led presidential delegations before transitioning to the private sector as the event manager for General Colin L. Powell. She served as a trusted advisor and liaison to the General for 25 years, including his tenure as U.S. Secretary of State, where she was the Assistant Chief of Protocol for Ceremonials.

Beyond her government service, Lautenslager is a global leader in her field, having served as President of Protocol & Diplomacy – Protocol Officers Association from 2016 to 2020. An accomplished author and trainer, she penned the memoir "My Time with General Colin Powell" and has contributed to several academic texts on international etiquette. A graduate of the College of William & Mary, she is now an internationally recognized speaker who trains prestigious organizations like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Peace Corps in the art of diplomatic and corporate relations.

Connect with Leslie:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

Want to be more successful, make more sales and grow your business? If so, you'll love this podcast. In this show, I (Kay Miller, aka "Muffler Mama,") interview superstar women from all industries. Their experience and advice will give you specific tools you can use to enjoy Uncopyable success. I earned the nickname “Muffler Mama" when sold more automotive mufflers than anyone in the world, and I've been a successful entrepreneur for over 30 years. During that time, I (along with my husband, Steve) have generated 8 figures in revenue for our business. Besides hosting this podcast, I'm an author, speaker, coach, consultant and most importantly....Kelly's mom.

Order my Products!

Uncopyable Sales Secrets (Book by Kay Miller)

Uncopyable You (Book co-authored with Steve Miller)

Apply for a free 20 minute call

Contact:
kay@beuncopyable.com
linkedin.com/in/millerkay

Send us a text

This episode is Part 2 of my delightful conversation with Leslie Lautenslager. She gives more behind-the-scenes examples that show who General Powell was away from the spotlight. She shares insights on respect, trust, HUMOR (!), and the quiet moments that defined their working relationship.

Leslie also reflects on fear, responsibility, and what it means to serve at the highest levels of leadership. She shares the moments that scared her, the lessons she learned by being “thrown into the deep end,” and why protocol work is never about being seen, but about making others feel respected and safe.

Our conversation closes with reflections on General Powell’s friendships, legacy, and why Leslie ultimately felt called to write the book she once believed she never could.

About Leslie Lautenslager:

Leslie Lautenslager is a distinguished protocol expert with a career spanning over three decades of high-level diplomacy and international relations. Beginning her journey in 1986 at Blair House, she managed state visits and led presidential delegations before transitioning to the private sector as the event manager for General Colin L. Powell. She served as a trusted advisor and liaison to the General for 25 years, including his tenure as U.S. Secretary of State, where she was the Assistant Chief of Protocol for Ceremonials.

Beyond her government service, Lautenslager is a global leader in her field, having served as President of Protocol & Diplomacy – Protocol Officers Association from 2016 to 2020. An accomplished author and trainer, she penned the memoir "My Time with General Colin Powell" and has contributed to several academic texts on international etiquette. A graduate of the College of William & Mary, she is now an internationally recognized speaker who trains prestigious organizations like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Peace Corps in the art of diplomatic and corporate relations.

Connect with Leslie:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

Want to be more successful, make more sales and grow your business? If so, you'll love this podcast. In this show, I (Kay Miller, aka "Muffler Mama,") interview superstar women from all industries. Their experience and advice will give you specific tools you can use to enjoy Uncopyable success. I earned the nickname “Muffler Mama" when sold more automotive mufflers than anyone in the world, and I've been a successful entrepreneur for over 30 years. During that time, I (along with my husband, Steve) have generated 8 figures in revenue for our business. Besides hosting this podcast, I'm an author, speaker, coach, consultant and most importantly....Kelly's mom.

Order my Products!

Uncopyable Sales Secrets (Book by Kay Miller)

Uncopyable You (Book co-authored with Steve Miller)

Apply for a free 20 minute call

Contact:
kay@beuncopyable.com
linkedin.com/in/millerkay