Magic in the Room #181: A New Approach to Gifting with guest John Ruhlin

May 28, 2024

Gifts are often used to build relationships in business, whether with clients, customers, or employees. But what if we have been doing gifting all wrong? In today’s episode of Magic in the Room, Chris and guest John Ruhlin discuss a new way to think about gifting. The bottom line is that gifts can be used to build long-lasting relationships, but not if you just put the company logo on a mug and send it to everyone. Instead, you should intentionally make every gift focused on the receiver and create a lasting memory they will associate with you.   

Listen now on your favorite platform!


John is the founder of GIFT·OLOGY and the author of Giftology: The Art and Science of Using Gifts to Cut Through the Noise, Increase Referrals, and Strengthen Client Retention. 


Find John on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnruhlin/ or at giftologygroup.com. 

Credits: 

  • This episode of Magic in the Room was recorded onsite in Tulsa, OK
  • Music by Evan Grim. Find his music on Apple Music

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By Sarah Whitfield • August 5, 2025
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In this episode of "Magic in the Room," hosts Luke and Chris are joined by Sara Hardwick of Giftology to explore the concept of Return on Relationship. They discuss how investing in authentic, intentional relationships, both internally within teams and externally with clients and partners, can drive loyalty and long-term business outcomes. Sara shares her journey into the world of strategic gifting and highlights the philosophy behind Giftology, including the power of delight, personalized systems of care, and the importance of playing the long game in leadership and marketing. The conversation also introduces the Rich Relationship Society, a community built to help leaders implement these practices in meaningful ways.
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