How Stefani Havel Built Sales Strategy Network After a 25-Year Corporate Career

In this episode of Founders Future, with host Olivia Sammons, Stefani Havel, Founder of Sales Strategy Network, shares her transition from a 25-year corporate career in finance, mortgage, and banking to building her own sales training and leadership consultancy. After her corporate role was unexpectedly eliminated, Stefani chose to leverage her experience leading high-performing teams—including moving one team from #129 to #19 in a Fortune 500 company—and channel it into helping small to mid-sized businesses master the psychology of sales. She breaks down her proprietary “CONVERT” sales framework, emphasizing connection, trust-building, behavioral awareness through DiSC, and replacing rigid scripts with authentic, values-driven conversations.Stefani dives into how she supports entrepreneurs and sales teams who are confident in their craft but uncomfortable selling it. From customized coaching and roleplay training to launching her new 8-week online sales course, she’s focused on scalable impact while maintaining authenticity and structure. She also reflects on the challenges of entrepreneurship—from tech hurdles to marketing strategy—and shares her guiding advice: gain clarity, focus on what you do best, and stop chasing every shiny object. It’s a candid and insightful conversation on leadership, reinvention, and building confidence in sales without sacrificing integrity.