[R] The APPLE Framework: The Only 5 Steps You Need to Build Trust and Scale with Ease

Sometimes the key to moving forward is going back… To the principles, the patterns, and the frameworks that actually work. In this powerful re-run episode of our Back-to-School series, George revisits one of the most transformative tools he’s ever created: the APPLE Framework—a customer journey and communication model that’s proven to create results across every stage of business. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started, this episode will show you how to improve your customer experience, increase trust, and deepen connection using five simple steps. It’s not about fancy marketing tactics—it’s about creating transformational relationships that scale with ease. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe real purpose of customer journey (and what it’s not).Why most businesses sabotage trust without realizing it.A breakdown of the APPLE Framework for communication.How to use this model in DMs, sales calls, onboarding, and more.Why emotional safety is the secret to customer retention.   Key Takeaways ✔️Customer journey is a relationship, not a transaction. If you’re treating customers like clicks, you’re always going to be chasing the next one. ✔️The APPLE Framework (Acknowledge, Prepare, Project, Let Them Know, Excite) can be applied to every communication channel—DMs, emails, Zoom calls, onboarding, and beyond. ✔️Pre-handling objections = building trust. Let your audience know what to expect so they don’t get stuck and blame you. ✔️Marketing, sales, and delivery are all customer journey zones. Use the APPLE method in each to build emotional safety and loyalty. ✔️Simple frameworks scale better than fancy strategies. Clarity and consistency win every time.   Timestamps & Highlights [00:00] – Intro to the Back-to-School Series and episode context [04:00] – Why the biggest bottleneck isn’t your funnel—it’s communication [06:00] – The updated APPLE Framework explained step-by-step [12:00] – Customer journey is a bridge to transformation—not just a product [15:00] – Example: How George uses APPLE in DMs [17:00] – Example: How to apply APPLE to onboarding new clients [19:00] – APPLE in sales calls: how to structure trust and momentum [21:00] – Why APPLE works in every area of life (including parenting) [24:00] – Final challenge + George APPLEs you directly   Your Challenge This Week Review your last DM, email, or onboarding message. Did you use all five APPLE steps?If not, revise it using the framework and see how your audience responds.Practice makes presence—and presence builds trust. Want help implementing APPLE in your business? DM George on IG: @itsgeorgebryant Join The Alliance – The Relationship Beats Algorithms™ community for entrepreneurs who scale with trust and connection. Apply for 1:1 Coaching – Ready to build your business with sustainability, impact, and ease? Apply here  Live Events – Get in the room where long-term success is built: mindofgeorge.com/event Follow George on Instagram for behind-the-scenes tips and insights: @itsgeorgebryant