Stop pitching, start listening: A framework for influence with Stefan Tyler’s 5-15-5 Framework

What if you could predict exactly how your stakeholders would respond to your ideas before you even present them?

Stefon Towler brings deep insight into the psychology of stakeholder decision-making, revealing how understanding their true priorities can transform resistance into support. His practical approach helps teams move beyond surface-level presentations to create genuine alignment with stakeholder needs.

Throughout our conversation, Stefon breaks down how his 5/15/5 framework helps teams understand the real motivations driving stakeholder decisions. He shares examples of how teams have used this approach to transform their relationships with executives, product managers, and cross-functional partners.

Whether you’re trying to influence process changes or secure buy-in for major initiatives, this episode provides actionable strategies for understanding and aligning with stakeholder priorities. Listen now to learn how to move beyond presentations and start creating true stakeholder partnerships.

Topics:
• 04:17 – Stefan’s Journey and the 5-15-5 Framework
• 07:09 – Applying the 5-15-5 Framework
• 11:50 – Finding the Right People for Insights
• 18:42 – Identifying Patterns and Crafting Messages
• 33:53 – Reaching Out on LinkedIn: A Journey to Mentorship
• 34:56 – The Importance of Providing Value in Networking
• 36:30 – Improving the QA Process for UX Design
• 38:43 – Identifying Key Players and Crafting a Guide
• 48:33 – Iterating and Testing Messages
• 51:03 – Common Pitfalls and Tips

Helpful Links:
• Connect with Stefon on LinkedIn
• Insight & INNOVATE

Stefon Towler
Marketing & Customer Strategy Consultant

About Stefon

 Stefon Towler is known for his practical, no-nonsense approach to customer discovery and marketing strategy—helping businesses cut through the noise and make smarter, faster decisions.

With years of hands-on experience guiding teams through customer discovery, product validation, and marketing challenges, Stefon has helped founders build repeatable systems that attract and retain the right customers. He’s spoken at major events like Startup Week Cincy and works with businesses ranging from early-stage ventures to growing companies looking to solidify their market presence.

Stefon’s approach is simple, straightforward and uses proven methods that get results. He’s passionate about teaching businesses how to build customer acquisition systems that work, giving them the tools to grow sustainably without wasting time or money. Get ready to learn how to master customer discovery and marketing strategy.

Connect with Stefon on LinkedIn

—

Thanks for listening! We hope you dug today’s episode. If you liked what you heard, be sure to like and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! And if you really enjoyed today’s episode, why don’t you leave a five-star review? Or tell some friends! It will help us out a ton.

If you haven’t already, sign up for our email list. We won’t spam you. Pinky swear.

• Get a FREE audiobook AND support the show
• Support the show on Patreon
• Check out show transcripts
• Check out our website
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
• Subscribe on Spotify
• Subscribe on YouTube
• Subscribe on Stitcher