How to Build a Business on Referrals, Not Hustle.
- Episode #222
Michi Lantz talks with marketing consultant Ed Forteau of founder of Win/Win Professional Marketing & Sales Association about why trust is a stronger growth engine than hustle, how bad referrals waste time, and how entrepreneurs can build referral systems that bring in business with less selling.

Ed Forteau, founder of Win/Win Professional Marketing & Sales Association, is a seasoned marketing consultant and coach with over 30 years of experience. He has witnessed the persistent struggle businesses face in acquiring new clients, regardless of their success or establishment.
To address this, Ed developed the Strategic Ally Method, a proven system that replaces unpredictable networking and referrals with a reliable, consistent approach to client acquisition. His philosophy, “It’s easier to make a friend than to make a sale,” underscores his commitment to building genuine, impactful business relationships.
Through his innovative methods, Ed empowers professional services providers to achieve sustained growth and success.
Connect with Ed Forteau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edforteau/
Book – No More Cringe: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DB9G9R8T
Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:
Mirasee
Credits:
Producer: Michi Lantz
Editor: Michi Lantz
Executive Producer: Danny Iny
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Making It
If you’re an online entrepreneur, Making It was made for you. In each episode, real-world entrepreneurs tell their stories in their own words. They define what “making it” means in the busy space of online business. And they reveal what they’ve learned in their journey toward making it… lessons you can use in your own business.