The Influence Economy:
Persuasion Training
In life, the best ideas don’t always win—the best communicators do. When your team knows how to persuade, influence, and connect, they get more done, make better decisions, and avoid the headaches of miscommunication.
Persuasion is the Skill That Changes Everything
The Influence Economy is a framework that equips mission-driven organizations with science-backed strategies to transform communication into a powerful tool for inspiring action, fostering authentic connections, and driving lasting change.
The science-based Influence Economy will help:
  • Get people to act the first time you ask.
    When you communicate persuasively, things move forward—fast.
  • Turn interest into action—and action into revenue.
    Persuasion is the key to moving people from “That sounds great” to “Here’s my support.”
  • Turn discussions into decisions.
    With persuasion skills, your team can steer conversations toward clarity, consensus, and action.
  • Make leadership about influence, not just job titles.
    Your best employees don’t need authority to make an impact—they need persuasion.
  • Disagreements don’t have to derail progress.
    Persuasion isn’t about winning arguments—it’s about guiding conversations.
  • Make your message impossible to ignore (and easy to say yes to).
    Donors, clients, and customers are bombarded with requests daily—make sure you’re not just heard, but acted on.
  • Give your team a competitive edge in every conversation.
    The smartest idea doesn’t always win—the one communicated best does.
"The best teams don’t just talk—they persuade. Let’s make yours one of them."
What is The Influence Economy:
It's your Path to Ethical Influence

1

The Science of a Blink
Master the hidden science to influence in an instant.

2

Trust Mechanics
Leverage trust and loyalty to build influential relationships.

3

Social Influence
Inspire action using the laws of group dynamics and shared identities.

4

Passion Drivers
Tap into emotional drivers that launch commitment and action.

5

Cultivation and Anticipation
Shape and influence future decisions before they even happen.
"Learning the science behind influence is fun, powerful, and even surprising—there’s always a 'lightbulb' moment for participants when they realize how powerful these skills are!"
The Missing Skill That Shapes Leaders
- 600+ Million Professionals
- 20+ Million Jobs
According to LinkedIn’s analysis of 660+ million professionals and 20+ million jobs, the most in-demand soft skills globally are:
  1. Creativity
  1. Persuasion
  1. Collaboration
  1. Adaptability
  1. Emotional Intelligence
What do these skills have in common? They’re human skills—the ones that are irreplaceable, the ones that inspire action, foster trust, and build connections - the one's we struggle with! And at the heart of them is persuasion: the ability to influence ideas, align teams, and drive meaningful outcomes.
The Influence Economy, teaches organizations and individuals how to master the science of influence and persuasion to amplify missions, engage stakeholders, and create real, lasting change. Whether you’re in non-profits, healthcare, or higher education, these skills aren’t just valuable—they’re essential.
Ready to equip your team with the skills that matter most? Let’s get started.
Are you…
Feeling Left Behind?
Individuals struggle to make their voice heard, and companies fail to connect meaningfully with their audience.
Stuck Without Influence?
Without the skills to motivate action, individuals and companies remain stagnant.
Missing Opportunities?
The inability to persuade costs individuals career advancements and personal growth, while organizations lose employees and funding!
Podcasts and Videos

58:30

Thriving in Workplace: Interview with Dr. Katina Sawyer and Dr. Patricia Grabarek #workplace #work

The Big Picture People Podcast - Helping Leaders Walk the Talk

About Dean
As a full-time faculty member at Arizona State University and an adjunct instructor at Phoenix College and Southern Oregon University, I specialize in Persuasion, Influence, Consumerism, and Communication. With over 20 years of executive marketing experience, I don’t just teach the science of persuasion—I help organizations apply it in meaningful, ethical, and results-driven ways.
My approach bridges academic research with real-world application, helping businesses, teams, and leaders refine their messaging, enhance consumer engagement, and drive strategic influence. Whether it’s crafting compelling narratives, improving team dynamics, or leveraging persuasion in sales and marketing, I work with organizations to build communication strategies that resonate and persuade—without resorting to manipulative tactics.
The influence economy is constantly evolving, and those who master strategic communication gain a competitive edge. If your organization is looking to strengthen its messaging, improve consumer trust, or empower teams and leadership with advanced persuasion techniques, let’s connect!
Unlock the Power to Lead, Inspire, and Transform Your Organization
Maximize
Development
Inspire & Cultivate Lasting Connections
Transform your development efforts with techniques to inspire donors, secure major gifts, and deepen loyalty. Build authentic relationships that foster long-term support and drive sustainable growth.
Ignite Marketing & Communication
Captivate, Engage, and Build Loyalty
Equip your marketing team with the skills to craft compelling campaigns, inspire action, and strengthen brand loyalty. Consistent, persuasive messaging will amplify your mission and create lasting impact.
Elevate Leadership & Strategy
Lead with Influence, Inspire with Purpose
Empower leaders to drive change, align teams, and build trust. Master strategies to motivate action, gain buy-in, and shape a compelling vision that unites and energizes your organization..
Flexible Training Options to Fit Your Needs
We offer 1-day, and 2-day onsite or live video training sessions designed to equip your team with the tools and techniques of persuasive communication.
1-Day Intensive:
Get a powerful introduction to key persuasion principles and immediately applicable strategies. Perfect for teams seeking a quick, high-impact session.
My rate for a 4-hour seminar is $3,750, depending on the scope and customization required.
This 4-hour seminar is designed for small groups of up to 10 participants to maximize engagement and personalized learning.
*For larger teams, packages are adjustable.
2-Day Deep Dive:
Expand your team's skills with in-depth workshops, real-world scenarios, and hands-on practice for more comprehensive mastery of persuasive techniques.
My rate for a two-day seminar (4 hours per day) is $5,950, depending on the scope and customization required.
This seminar is designed for small groups of up to 10 participants to maximize engagement and personalized learning.
*For larger teams, packages are adjustable.