How To Earn Trust and Influence According to Renowned Psychologist Robert Cialdini

How To Earn Trust and Influence According to Renowned Psychologist Robert Cialdini

Author: Tommy Mello: $200 Million Founder|Forbes, Inc., Entrepreneur Columnist December 1, 2025 Duration: 1:01:41

Robert Cialdini is a world-leading psychologist and bestselling author whose groundbreaking research on the science of influence has shaped modern understanding of persuasion and decision-making. Often called the godfather of influence, he introduced the now-classic principles of persuasion that guide leaders, marketers, and communicators around the globe. He is the author of the seminal books Influence and Pre-Suasion, which have sold millions of copies and been translated into dozens of languages. Cialdini's work continues to define best practices in ethical persuasion, earning him recognition as one of the most influential behavioral scientists of our time.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Robert Cialdini

03:00 Principles of Ethical Influence

09:00 The Power of Reciprocity

15:00 Commitment and Consistency

21:00 Social Proof and Authority

27:00 Unity: The New Principle

33:00 Personal Insights and Anecdotes

39:00 Practical Applications of Influence


For anyone running a home service business-be it plumbing, HVAC, or a dozen other trades-the daily grind can feel isolating. You’re solving problems for customers while wrestling with your own, from hiring the right technicians to figuring out which marketing actually works. That’s where The Home Service Expert Podcast comes in. Host Tommy Mello isn’t just another commentator; he’s a founder who has built his own companies to a staggering $200 million in revenue, and he shares his hard-won perspective as a columnist for major publications like Forbes, Inc., and Entrepreneur. Each episode feels like a direct conversation with the sharpest minds in the field. Tommy brings on leading entrepreneurs and specialists, not only from home services but from adjacent industries, to unpack the precise tactics that drive real growth. You’ll hear practical discussions that skip the theory and dive into applied knowledge, covering everything from leveraging new digital tools to executing scaling strategies that protect your company’s culture. The dialogue is built on a foundation of genuine experience, offering a sense of camaraderie and actionable advice for owners who are serious about building a legacy, not just a job. This podcast serves as a vital resource for turning operational challenges into your biggest opportunities.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Home Service Expert Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Marketing Like a Billionaire: Inside the Mind of Russell Brunson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:13:45
Russell Brunson is the co-founder of ClickFunnels and a driving force behind the online marketing revolution. From hustling potato gun DVDs in college to building a $100 million software company, he's proof that big idea…
Unlocking Success: The Entrepreneurial Mindset with Austin Zaback [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:58
In this conversation, Austin Zaback shares insights on entrepreneurship, the importance of commitment, and the evolving landscape of real estate and home services. He discusses strategies for building a sellable business…
Mastering Business Budgets: Insights with Lawrence Castillo [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:07
In this conversation, Lawrence Castillo shares his insights on building a successful business in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the importance of budgeting, recruiting top talent, and learning from mentors. He discusses…
Unlocking Financial Success in Business with Ellen Rohr [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:01
In this engaging conversation, Tommy Mello and Ellen Rohr discuss the critical importance of financial clarity in business, the value of mentorship, and the strategies for choosing the right business to invest in. They e…
From Humble Beginnings to Business Success with Ismael Valdez [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:10
In this conversation, Ismael Valdez discusses the significance of profitability, the impact of private equity on the industry, and the necessity of preparation for business growth. The discussion also touches on leadersh…
The Power of Networking: Who's in Your Life? with Ivan Misner [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:05
In this conversation, Dr. Ivan Misner, founder of BNI, discusses the significance of networking and relationships in business. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and the impact o…
Becoming a Real Estate Expert with Brandon Turner [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:37
In this conversation, Brandon Turner shares his journey from a blue-collar background to becoming a successful real estate investor and entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of focusing on one's primary business befo…