The SaaS CFO

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we welcome Yana Lapitskaya, the CEO and co-founder of YAI, an innovative platform designed to enhance the quality of AI-generated marketing content. With over 15 years in marketing and a successful agency exit under her belt, Yana shares her journey from agency founder to SaaS startup leader, and how her hands-on experience shaped her vision for YAI. Yana discusses the challenges marketers face with AI-produced content and explains how YAI's tools improve brand voice, clarity, SEO, and prepare businesses for the changing landscape of AI-enabled search. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at building her team, refining the product, and developing go-to-market strategies that resonate with both agencies and enterprise brands. Tune in to hear valuable lessons on early-stage SaaS fundraising, product activation metrics, and the drive it takes to launch and grow a tech company. Whether you're a marketer, founder, or SaaS enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration from a leader at the forefront of marketing technology. Show Notes: 00:00 Marketing Expert in Tech Innovation 05:48 "Multi-Brand Marketing Efficiency" 09:46 Dual Approach Market Strategy 11:58 "Challenges of Bootstrapping and Scaling" 16:07 Key Metric: Activation Rate 17:31 Startup Focus: User Value & AI Integration Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/yai-secures-250-000-in-seis-funding Yana Lapitskaya's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanalapitskaya/ YAi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yai-digital/ YAi's Website: https://yai.digital/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, I'm joined by Anna Berger, founder and CEO of Trayd—a game-changing construction payroll and compliance software. Anna shares how her career in marketing and personal roots in the construction industry inspired her to tackle the toughest back-office challenges specialty contractors face, from HR and scheduling to payroll and compliance. We dive into Anna's journey from working at top ad agencies and Marriott International to becoming a two-time founder and YC alum. She opens up about the challenges and wins of building Trayd, raising $4.5 million in seed funding, and the importance of customer retention and consistent branding in SaaS growth. If you're passionate about SaaS, vertical solutions, or just love a good founder story, you won't want to miss this conversation. Tune in to learn how Anna and her team are streamlining complex operations for contractors and driving rapid growth in an industry that's overdue for innovation! Show Notes: 00:00 Diverse Founder Background Advantage 03:31 Unified Construction Software Solution 06:38 Family-Driven Construction Insight 10:56 Startup Fundraising Journey 14:39 CEO Focus: Retention and Growth Metrics 16:37 "Dogfooding to Improve Customer Experience" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/trayd-raises-4-5-million-in-seed-round Anna Berger's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annajberger/ Trayd's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/traydinc/ Trayd's Website: https://www.buildtrayd.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Amira Nakouri, co-founder and CEO of Klaimy, to share her inspiring entrepreneurial journey. With a strong background in strategy consulting for major European insurers, Amira reveals how her drive for innovation—and a spark from the rise of generative AI—led her to launch Klaimy in Paris. Klaimy is redefining the insurance industry by using AI to streamline the complex and time-consuming medical underwriting process. Amira explains how their technology helps insurance companies process medical records with incredible speed and accuracy, cutting decision times from days to just minutes. She also discusses the company's go-to-market strategies, working with mid-sized MGAs, and their hybrid SaaS pricing model. Tune in as Amira shares candid insights about building a startup team, navigating challenges with enterprise sales cycles, and raising pre-seed capital during uncertain times in Europe. Whether you're interested in SaaS, AI, or the future of insurtech, this episode offers valuable lessons for founders and innovators alike. Show Notes: 00:00 From Consultant to Entrepreneur in AI 05:12 Streamlining Complex Insurance Tasks 09:22 Expanding Insurance with AI-Powered Models 12:21 Startup Formation and Partnership Milestones 14:54 Small, Strategic Startup Team 17:49 "Insurance Industry Adoption Challenges" 22:46 Amsterdam Insurance Forum 2024 23:59 Targeted VC Strategy Yields Success 27:13 Explore KLAIMY.com Today Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/klaimy-raises-1-2m-in-pre-seed-round Amira Nakouri's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amira-nakouri-1b729248/ Klaimy's Website: https://www.getklaimy.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Ibrahim Ashqar, the co-founder and CEO of Lumi AI. Ibrahim shares his impressive background in data science and AI, including his time at Deloitte and the supply chain tech unicorn Stord, before diving into why he launched Lumi. The conversation highlights the challenges companies face with traditional business intelligence tools, and how Lumi is revolutionizing data access for brands, retailers, and supply chain operators through agentic workflows and conversational analytics. Ben and Ibrahim discuss Lumi's focused go-to-market strategy, their partnerships with industry giants like Deloitte and BCG, and how they're working with mid-market to Fortune 10 enterprises. Listeners will also hear about Lumi's journey through fundraising, lessons learned in scaling an early-stage SaaS company, and the key product metrics that guide their growth. Whether you're interested in AI, enterprise analytics, or the inner workings of a fast-growing SaaS startup, this episode is packed with actionable insights and firsthand advice from the front lines of innovation. Show Notes: 00:00 Supply Chain Analytics Software Focus 04:54 Strategic Supply Chain Planning Overview 09:13 Educational Analytics Approach Success 11:28 Consultant Challenges: Navigating Clearances 15:36 Complementary Tool, Not Replacement 18:36 Unexpected Visibility During Stealth Mode 21:34 Effective Investor Pitch Strategy 24:34 "Optimizing Intuitive AI Workflows" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/lumi-ai-raises-3-7-million-in-seed-round Ibrahim Ashqar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ibrahimashqar/ Lumi AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lumi-ai Lumi Ai's Website: https://www.lumi-ai.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

On this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray sits down with Gus Neate, the co-founder and CEO of Wilson AI. Gus shares his unique journey from engineering and law to entrepreneurship, explaining how his experience in top law firms and in-house legal teams inspired the creation of Wilson AI—the world's first AI-powered paralegal. Together, they delve into how Wilson AI is helping in-house legal teams automate repetitive contract workflows, extract key terms from documents, and enable seamless legal Q&A within organizations. Gus discusses the ideal customer profile, ROI for clients, and the tiered pricing model that powers their early traction. He also opens about their recent $1.7 million pre-seed raise, lessons learned through fundraising, and the importance of product adoption and user retention in these early stages. From data security concerns to global expansion ambitions, Gus offers insights for founders, legal ops leaders, and SaaS CFOs alike who are interested in leveraging AI to streamline their legal operations. Stay tuned for a behind-the-scenes look at scaling an early-stage SaaS company right at the intersection of law and technology. Show Notes: 00:00 AI Paralegal by Wilson for Contracts 06:22 Tiered Pricing Structure Insights 09:38 Targeted Content for Legal Teams 11:43 Accelerator-Driven Entrepreneurial Growth 15:01 Streamlining Customer Experience Setup 17:02 AI-Enhanced Document Analysis Tools 19:41 "Explore GetWilson AI" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/wilsonai-raises-1-7-million-in-funding Gus Neate's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-neate/ Wilson AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wilsonai-company/ Wilson AI's Website: https://www.getwilson.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another thrilling episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast on YouTube, where we unravel the latest innovations at the crossroads of finance and technology! This time, we've got Erez Agmon, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Vayu, sharing his remarkable journey from venture capitalist to tech entrepreneur. With a decade in the startup ecosystem, Erez now turns his focus to revolutionizing the financial landscape through AI-driven solutions. At Vayu, they're not just keeping pace with the change—they're leading it. Discover how Vayu acts as the "winds of change" for finance, as Erez puts it, automating the most complex billing and contract-to-cash processes with unprecedented ease. From AI-enhanced metering tools to real-time revenue insights, Vayu is empowering B2B companies to innovate pricing models and streamline operations without the engineering headache. Join us as we delve into Erez's unique vision and the strategies propelling Vayu to the forefront of the fintech revolution. Whether you're a CFO looking for cutting-edge tools, a tech enthusiast, or someone fascinated by the mechanics of business finance, this episode has something for you. Stay tuned and get ready to be inspired by the future of financial technology! Show Notes: 00:00 Vayu: Revolutionizing B2B Billing Solutions 03:39 Real-Time Contract Management Solution 06:27 B2B Pricing and Implementation Solutions 10:36 Flexible Pricing Solution Achieved 14:50 Strategic Growth Through Lessons Learned 18:52 Retention Strategies in CFO Space 20:40 Optimizing B2B Pricing with AI Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/vayu-raises-7-million-in-seed-round Erez Agmon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erez-agmon-66017012a/ Vayu's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/withvayu/ Vayu's Website: https://www.withvayu.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast YouTube channel! In this episode, we're thrilled to present a conversation with Apurv Bansal, the co-founder and CEO of Zenskar. Apurv journeys us through his intriguing career path, starting from selling his first company to gaining insightful experiences at Google, which ultimately led to the inception of Zenskar. His story is a testament to how industry experience and recognizing universal pain points can catalyze groundbreaking business ideas. Zenskar is revolutionizing the revenue automation landscape with its innovative order-to-cash platform. Apurv delves into the unique offerings of Zenskar, which handles everything from billing and collection to revenue recognition and SaaS metrics reporting. With the platform's ability to simplify complex pricing models and usage tracking, Zenskar is setting itself apart from legacy vendors, offering unparalleled value to businesses with intricate billing requirements. Apurv shares how Zenskar's solutions cater to both burgeoning startups and established companies looking to streamline their revenue operations. Join us as we unpack Zenskar's journey of innovation and growth. We'll explore how this platform addresses the challenges of subscription management and the critical role of having an efficiently automated system in place. Apurv's insights provide actionable strategies for scaling a SaaS business, understanding the competitive landscape, and honing a successful go-to-market approach. Whether you're a SaaS enthusiast or a finance professional, this episode is sure to broaden your perspective on contemporary revenue management solutions. Show Notes: 00:00 Second Startup Driven by Billing Gap 03:38 Pricing Complexity in B2B SaaS Models 09:51 Pricing Depends on Module and Complexity 10:53 Seamless Data Warehouse Integration 15:22 Believe and Communicate Your Advantage 18:57 Scaling and Evaluating Market Channels 20:50 Automation's Benefits Beyond Cost Savings Links: Apruv Bansal's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bansalapurv/ Zenskar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zenskar/ Zenskar's Website: https://www.zenskar.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we are excited to have Ali Rizvi, the innovative CEO and founder of TrueRev, as our guest. Ali's journey from being a CPA with a solid background in finance and audit to becoming the driving force behind TrueRev, offers a wealth of insights. He draws on his extensive experience as a CFO for early-stage tech firms to highlight the persistent financial challenges SaaS companies face, ultimately leading him to develop TrueRev as a solution for subscription and revenue management issues. TrueRev is dedicated to streamlining operations for small to medium-sized businesses dealing with recurring revenue complexities. Ali elaborates on how the platform addresses these challenges by focusing on revenue recognition, subscription management, and financial reporting, providing SaaS companies with a cohesive solution. With a mission to solve the financial chaos that arises in tech-driven companies, TrueRev aims to ensure accurate and seamless financial operations, especially for businesses lacking the resources to address these problems with existing systems or headcount. In addition to sharing the vision behind TrueRev, Ali provides a glimpse into the strategic roadmap for growth and the essential role of clean data in financial operations. He offers valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of subscription management and where the industry is headed. Whether you're an entrepreneur in the SaaS space or a finance professional seeking to optimize financial processes, Ali's discussion is full of actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies. Tune in to explore how TrueRev is changing the game in SaaS financial management and what it means for your business. Show Notes: 00:00 Revenue Recognition Challenges 05:34 Target Market: Growing Companies' Recurring Revenue 09:09 Side Project to Startup Launch 11:28 Inbound Strategy Focused on Conversion 13:32 Bootstrapping vs. VC Funding Pressure 18:49 Holistic Subscription Management Challenges 20:34 Complexity of Contract Management 23:08 "Explore TrueRev with Ali" Links: Ali Rizvi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rizvial/ TrueRev's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/true-rev/ TrueRev's Website: https://truerev.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another thrilling episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Juha Riipi, the brilliant CEO of Quanscient. With a career that spans software development to consulting, Juha has now ventured into the realm of cutting-edge multiphysics simulations, and he's here to share how Quanscient is changing the game.

Welcome to another engaging episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, where host Ben Murray sits down with Arjun Pillai, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Docket. Arjun takes us on a journey through his impressive 13-year career in the realms of sales tech, martech, and data tech. Having founded multiple companies and successfully exited them, Arjun offers a wealth of experience and insights that he's now channeling into his new venture, Docket. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the confluence of entrepreneurship and innovative technology. In their conversation, Arjun and Ben delve into the nuts and bolts of Docket's pioneering product - an AI sales engineer designed to assist B2B sales teams. As Arjun highlights, this tool aims to elevate the capacity of salespeople by enabling them to efficiently handle intricate product inquiries and competitive challenges, all while drawing from the best practices within their company. The dialogue also touches on key aspects of startup funding, AI technology, and creating a robust go-to-market strategy, making it essential listening for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Join us as we explore Arjun's transition from a successful engineer to a seasoned entrepreneur, uncovering the lessons learned and the paths paved along the way. With Docket's promising trajectory in the AI sales landscape and Arjun's insightful perspectives, this episode promises to deliver invaluable knowledge and inspiration for listeners across the board. Tune in for a conversation that bridges innovation and strategy in the ever-evolving world of SaaS. Show Notes: 00:00 "AI Solutions for Sales Challenges" 04:26 Streamlining Sales Through Real-Time Support 09:03 CFOs Exploring GTM AI Strategies 11:19 AI Startups: Balancing Cost and Efficiency 16:00 Early Success Driven by Strong Fundamentals 19:38 Scaling GTM: Key Sales Metrics 22:58 "Prioritize Feedback For New Features" 24:02 Connect via LinkedIn or DocketAI Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/docket-raises-3-million-in-funding https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/docket-ai-raises-15-million-in-series-a Arjun Pillai's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rarjunpillai/ Docket's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/docket-inc/ Docket's Website: https://www.docketai.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray is joined once again by David DeWolf, the President and CEO of KnownWell. David, a seasoned entrepreneur and former software engineer, dives into his transition from building a successful consulting firm to founding KnownWell, a company that's making strides in the realm of commercial intelligence for professional service businesses. His passionate journey from zero to nearly $200 million in revenue, and his focus on digital product development, set the stage for this insightful conversation. David shares updates on KnownWell's significant milestones, including their recent $4 million seed round, driven by unexpected commercial demand and market traction. With a mission to harness relationship data to empower service firms, KnownWell is making waves in the industry by offering innovative solutions that target operational challenges using AI. David's strategic approach to aligning with the right investors and the importance of cultural fit shines through as he discusses the company's ongoing growth. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving SaaS landscape as David highlights the company's roadmap toward product market fit and their focus on scaling effectively. He reveals how KnownWell is leveraging thought leadership and a dedicated podcast to generate inbound leads and strengthen customer relationships. Don't miss this episode for a deeper understanding of how David and his team are navigating the complex world of SaaS, exploring new opportunities, and striving to build a platform for the AI era. Show Notes: 00:00 Journey from Engineer to Entrepreneur 04:47 Outsourcing Challenges in Finance 08:28 Strategic Growth and Efficiency Planning 10:57 Pioneering AI Business Solutions 13:57 Surging Commercial Demand Strains Capacity 16:35 "Cultural Fit Matters Most" 19:26 Ambitious AI Firm Launch Strategy 23:31 Strategic Roadmap for Business Success 25:50 Enjoyable Experience, Thank You Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/knownwell-raises-4-million-in-seed-round David DeWolf's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddewolf/ Knownwell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/knownwell/ Knownwell's Website: https://knownwell.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In today's episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we sit down with Madeleine Lambert, a seasoned expert in content marketing and the innovative founder of Originality AI. With a rich history in creating SEO-driven content, Madeleine brings her expertise to the forefront by addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving world of AI in content creation. Her company, Originality AI, offers cutting-edge AI detection and content validation tools, designed specifically for content marketers and agencies looking to maintain high-quality and authenticated content. As the content landscape continues to shift with advancements in AI, Madeleine shares valuable insights into navigating these changes, particularly in relation to SEO and Google's search algorithms. She delves into her personal journey, from founding Content Refined in 2016 to successfully exiting the business in 2022, all while staying ahead of the curve with AI-driven solutions. Listen in as she discusses the implications of AI-generated content and the strategies required to stand out in a crowded digital space. Join us for an intriguing conversation that includes a sneak peek into Originality AI's upcoming predictive SEO feature. Discover how combining technology with human validation is key to achieving superior content marketing strategies. Whether you're exploring AI's impact on content marketing or are part of the SaaS industry, this episode promises a wealth of insights and inspiration. Show Notes: 00:00 Content Refined: SEO to AI Transition 06:18 Google's Stance on AI Content 08:07 Google's AI-Generated Content Penalties 12:45 Detecting AI-Generated Google Reviews 14:22 Validating Platform Reviews' Challenge 17:52 Adopting Mixpanel for Department Metrics Links: Madeleine Lambert's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeleine-lambert-b6426aa9/ Originality AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/originality-ai/ Originality AI's Website: https://originality.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Join us in this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast as we welcome Dov Gertz, CEO and co-founder of Converge Bio. With an impressive background in computer science and bioinformatics, Dov has contributed groundbreaking research in genome editing alongside Nobel Prize laureate Professor Jennifer Doudna. Currently, he leads Converge Bio, innovating at the crossroads of AI and biotech to enhance pharmaceutical R&D. Converge Bio is revolutionizing the biotech and pharma landscape with advanced AI solutions designed to expedite research and development processes. Dov shares insights into the company's focus on optimizing antibody design and protein manufacturing, as well as their tailored pricing models that cater to both large pharmas and smaller biotech firms. Discover how Converge Bio's early product market fit is driving demand and shaping the future of drug development. In this episode, Dov also sheds light on the company's strategic journey from inception in 2024 to raising $6 million in seed funding. He emphasizes the importance of a strong team and customer validation in building a successful startup. Tune in to explore the transformative potential of AI in life sciences and Converge Bio's mission to deliver better medications to patients worldwide. Show Notes: 00:00 Entrepreneurial Journey in Biotech 04:29 Pharma Belief Divide 09:11 Building a Successful Startup Team 09:51 Early Stage Startups: Team Focus Importance 13:18 Exploring Converged Bio's Journey Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/converge-bio-raises-5-5-million-in-seed-round Dov Gertz's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dov-gertz-20612b145/ Converge Bio's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/converge-bio/ Converge Bio's Website: https://converge-bio.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're excited to bring you a conversation with Sam Glasswell, co-founder and CEO of Arbolus, a trailblazing platform in the expert network arena. Sam takes us through his remarkable journey from a potential legal career to leading an innovative company that's reshaping how investors and consulting firms obtain and utilize expert knowledge. Arbolus stands out by fusing technology with traditional expert network brokerage models, creating a more efficient way for users to gather and analyze insights. Sam shares how the company's unique approach is driving significant growth, even amid market fluctuations, by transitioning clients from conventional providers to Arbolus's cutting-edge platform. The discussion delves into Arbolus's product offerings, their focus on data integration, and the company's vision for scaling and enhancing their services. For anyone interested in SaaS business strategies, fundraising, or the integration of data-driven platforms, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Tune in to discover how Arbolus is leading the charge in reducing friction to insight within the investment community, and gain valuable knowledge applicable to various industries. Show Notes: 00:00 Efficient Insight Through Technology 04:03 Private Equity in B2B SaaS 07:47 Client Growth and Data-Driven Sales 11:43 Blended Growth Equity Investment Partner 14:53 Early Engagement Key to Series B Success 16:20 "Key Business Growth Metrics" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/arbolus-raises-20-million-in-funding Sam Glasswell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-glasswell-47273b10/ Arbolus' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arbolus/ Arbolus' Website: https://www.arbolus.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray sits down with Ferry Tamtoro, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Revisto, to explore the dynamic intersection of life sciences and technology. Ferry shares his remarkable journey transitioning from the corporate sector to the world of startups, fueled by a passion for healthcare innovation. Discover how his drive to make a significant impact led to the foundation of Revisto, a company at the forefront of using AI to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of marketing material creation for life sciences companies. Throughout the conversation, Ferry delves into the unique challenges faced by pharmaceutical companies in their marketing endeavors, emphasizing the importance of navigating rigorous review processes. He articulates how Revisto's AI-powered solutions are revolutionizing these processes, enabling quicker market entries for pharmaceutical products while ensuring compliance and competitive differentiation. With an insightful look into the company's land-and-expand business strategy, Ferry highlights the critical role of customer ROI and how Revisto's offerings lead to significant time and effort savings. Listeners will also gain valuable insights from Ferry's experiences in fundraising, underscoring the importance of aligning with investors who bring diverse expertise to the table. As Revisto continues to scale, Ferry shares the company's exciting roadmap, focused on expanding their team and refining their products to meet the growing demand for AI-driven solutions in the pharma sector. Join us to explore how Ferry Tamtoro and Revisto are shaping the future of marketing in the life sciences industry. Show Notes: 00:00 AI-Accelerated Life Sciences Marketing 04:29 Avoiding FDA Reputational Damage 08:36 Networking and Event Connections 11:06 Top Pharma Product Expansion 14:24 Maximizing Pharma ROI with Software 17:27 Investing in Team and Product Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/revisto-raises-4-million-in-seed-round Ferry Tamtoro's LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ferrytamtoro/ Revisto's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/revisto-inc/ Revisto's Website: https://www.revisto.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Nitesh Trikha, the CEO of Neeve, to explore his extensive journey in the tech industry. With roots tracing back to 1996, Nitesh has evolved from a software programmer working on early Java technologies to holding pivotal roles at industry giants like Cisco. Now at the helm of Neeve, he is leading innovative efforts to enhance building infrastructure with cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions and cloud-native operations. Nitesh introduces us to Neeve, a cloud platform as a service company focused on creating smarter and more secure buildings. He explains the importance of securing various operational technologies within these spaces, ensuring seamless integration from HVAC systems to smart lighting and beyond. As Neeve tackles vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, Nitesh sheds light on the significance of cybersecurity in modern commercial real estate and highlights Neeve's global presence across 650 buildings. Looking ahead, Nitesh discusses Neeve's strategic growth including their evolving go-to-market strategy and successful fundraising ventures. He emphasizes the importance of fostering genuine partnerships with customers and investors and shares insights on scaling the business with new products and geographical expansions. Tune in to discover the exciting future of Neeve and the transformative potential of technology in building security! Show Notes: 00:00 Career Journey: Tech Evolution Since 1996 05:14 Smart Window Technology Expansion 07:02 Smart Building Infrastructure and Security 10:52 Customer-Centric REIT Partnership Evolution 15:23 "Building Independence Post-Graduation" 18:55 Geographical and Product Expansion Strategy 20:01 Neeve Expansion Insights Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/neeve-secures-15-million-in-funding Nitesh Trikha's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niteshtrikha/ Neeve's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/neeve-ai/ Neeve's Website: https://neeve.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, host Ben Murray sits down with Luis Garcia, the innovative president and co-founder of Pete, to unravel his inspiring journey. From his early days as a software engineer in Venezuela to launching a leading online university in the U.S., Luis shares key experiences that shaped his path in the world of digital education. Luis dives deep into the challenges of creating effective digital education materials and evaluating learning outcomes. He explains how Pete harnesses the power of generative AI to address these challenges, providing scalable training solutions for companies looking to enhance their workforce learning without extensive resources. Learn how Pete transforms existing materials into engaging courses and creates interactive learning experiences that effectively evaluate understanding. The episode also explores Pete's impressive growth trajectory and the potential of AI to revolutionize online education. With 16 customers and counting, Pete is poised for further expansion, demonstrating the increasing demand for innovative learning solutions. Listen in to discover Luis's vision for the future of corporate education and how Pete is setting the stage for transformative change in the industry. Show Notes: 00:00 Software Engineer Turned Education Pioneer 03:35 Rethinking Learning Evaluation Methods 09:35 Simulation Engine for Learning Scenarios 10:57 Collaborative Course Creation Model 14:55 Initial Cash Infusion and Growth 17:20 Community Investment and Job Growth 20:00 AI Boosts EdTech and Growth Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/pete-secures-2-million-in-seed-round Luis Garcia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisegarcia/ Pete's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pete-learning/ Pete's Website: https://www.pete.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this special edition, our host Ben Murray is joined once again by Jim Williams, Managing Director at GLC Advisors, to delve into the dynamic world of software mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Jim brings his wealth of experience and insights to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the market, including recent trends, deal volumes, and valuations. Ben and Jim explore the essential metrics that SaaS founders need to focus on, such as retention rates, growth, and gross margins. They discuss the importance of understanding your business model and revenue streams, especially in today's fluctuating market. Whether you're considering an exit or aiming to scale, their discussion provides actionable advice on how to prepare your business for potential acquisition and the type of deal structures you might encounter. Topping it all off, Jim shares his optimistic forecast for 2025, discussing the potential for increased deal volumes, better valuations, and the exciting opportunities for both platform and add-on deals. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intricacies of the SaaS M&A landscape. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation filled with practical advice and expert predictions! Show Notes: 00:00 Software M&A Market Trends 06:01 Evolving SaaS Revenue Models 06:50 Evaluating Revenue Models for Investors 12:48 Clear Storytelling for Business Success 16:15 Navigating Valuation Gaps in Markets 19:15 High Multiples for Top Businesses 20:24 Market Challenges in Business Quality 24:37 Sponsor Leverage in Platform Deals 29:15 Cash Out or Rollover Equity? 33:08 Equity Ownership and Commitment Terms 36:46 Seller's Market: Scarcity Premiums Heightened 38:53 Expect 60-Day Deal Processes 42:50 Scaling Business: Key Considerations and Risks 46:00 Retention's Impact on Valuation 48:26 Founders Can Still Achieve Multiples 53:46 Optimism for Future Business Deals 55:11 Contact Us for Capital Updates Links: Jim Williams LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-williams-5754953/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to introduce Ali Hussain, CEO and co-founder of Tabs, a game-changing platform in the B2B revenue management space. With a rich background ranging from the Midwest to stints in academia, consulting, and eventually tech entrepreneurship, Ali brings a wealth of experience and insights to our show. Ali shares his journey from being a NetSuite user grappling with 12 to 18-month digital transformations, to pioneering Tabs, a platform designed to simplify and automate the revenue process using AI and LLM technologies. We dive deep into how Tabs revolutionizes the traditional quote-to-cash cycle, focusing on post-deal-closure activities to drive efficiency and reduce onboarding risks. Ali also discusses the importance of CFOs investing in technology for back-office efficiencies, the growing stature of the CFO role, and how Tabs is helping companies manage complex B2B revenue streams seamlessly. Tune in to learn more about Ali's vision for Tabs, their impressive early growth, and how they're helping businesses automate and optimize their revenue processes. Whether you're a SaaS CFO, a financial professional, or interested in the latest fintech innovations, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice. Don't miss it! Show Notes: 00:00 Early Market Entry of Tabs 05:25 Streamlining SaaS Finance with AI 07:46 Horizontal Product Expansion Benefits 10:24 Consolidation in AP Spend 16:27 CFO Tech Adoption Trends 17:42 Balancing CFO Duties and Tech Choices 21:34 Strategic Partnerships and Networking Impact 26:48 "Demonstrating Pipeline and ARR Mastery" 30:20 Timely Invoicing Beats AI Tricks 31:28 Gaining Traction in B2B Finance Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/tabs-secures-25-million-in-series-a-funding Ali Hussain's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-hussain786/ Tabs' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/teamtabs/ Tabs' Website: https://tabs.inc/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, our host Ben Murray is thrilled to welcome Matt Perrott, the co-founder and CEO of BuildPass. Matt shares his journey from being a software engineer to leading a company that offers an AI-powered operating system for construction sites. We'll delve into the unique features of BuildPass, including its applications in both commercial and residential projects, and its impressive growth trajectory. Matt gives us an inside look at BuildPass's expansion strategies, highlighting their upcoming launch in the U.S., and how they're adapting to different regulatory environments. He also shares candid insights about their successful fundraising efforts, the repeatable sales motions they've established, and the challenges of expanding into new markets. Join us as Matt discusses the importance of capital efficiency, AI development, and their ambitious plans for future growth. Whether you're a SaaS enthusiast or a construction technology buff, this episode is packed with valuable insights and lessons learned from Matt's journey. Tune in now to hear more about BuildPass and its innovative contributions to the construction industry! Show Notes: 00:00 Consumer-Centric Construction Software 05:56 Revenue Growth and Profit Margins 07:56 Sales-Driven Strategy with Strong Marketing 09:49 Personalized Sales Calls Strategy 15:14 Strategic Fundraising and Networking Insights 15:58 Investor Caution and Market Dynamics 19:13 Strategic US Market Entry Plan 22:19 "Casual Chat with Ben" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/buildpass-raises-7-5-million-in-seed-round Matt Perrott's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perrott/ BuildPass' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildpass/ BuildPass' Website: https://www.buildpass.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to another insightful episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have an enlightening conversation with Michael Kravshik, the co-founder and CEO of LumiQ. Starting from its humble beginnings between 2015 and 2016, LumiQ has evolved from a recruitment-focused product for CPAs to a leading platform in CPA education, officially launched in 2019. Now operating across North America with a dedicated team in Toronto, LumiQ has achieved impressive milestones, including surpassing an annual recurring revenue of $10 million and securing its first institutional funding through a private equity deal. Join us as Michael shares his journey in transitioning from traditional CPA roles to innovative banking security, and the entrepreneurial path that led him to creating LumiQ. We'll dive into LumiQ's unique monetization strategies, their go-to-market approach, and the intricate process of maintaining and expanding CPE credits for finance professionals. Michael also provides valuable insights on fundraising, the importance of transparency with investors, and the impacts of cultural differences on business growth. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of SaaS financial leadership and learn from Michael's firsthand experiences and strategic outlook. Show Notes: 00:00 Founded Lumiq, an educational podcasting platform. 04:20 Content and platform integration ensures compliance. 07:19 Founded in 2015-16; launched Lumaq in 2019. 12:05 Initially targeted small businesses, expanded to accounting firms. 15:02 Focused on sustainable, cashflow-positive business growth. 16:51 We prioritized transparency, fostering strong investor trust. 21:49 Canadians less risk-taking, impacting growth and stability. 25:51 Alignment with partners is crucial for success. 27:44 ARR and cash are primary focus metrics. 30:38 Caring deeply about CPAs drives success. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/lumiq-secures-funding-round Michael Kravshik's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelkravshik/ LumiQ's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lumiqlearn/ LumiQ's Website: https://lumiqlearn.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're excited to welcome Freddie Monk, the co-founder and CEO of Aya Data. Freddie takes us through his incredible journey from working as a strategy consultant at EY in London to moving to Ghana, where he co-founded Aya Data with a Ghanaian friend and their previous boss. Freddie's unique path illustrates the potential of talent and innovation in Ghana, as well as the opportunities he saw to create socially impactful business ventures. Freddie sheds light on how Aya Data evolved from providing data annotation services to becoming a full-service AI consultancy firm. He dives into Aya Data's significant projects, including a precision agriculture platform that leverages remote sensing data and custom AI models to provide tree-level or plant-level analytics. Additionally, he talks about their second SaaS product, which is an African language speech solution designed to democratize communication for those who can't read or write in English or French. We also explore the vibrant tech landscape in Ghana and Aya Data's recent pre-seed funding round of $900K, which is set to propel their growth even further. Freddie discusses their mission to scale their SaaS products, the importance of protecting proprietary data, and the strategic plans for expansion into new global markets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in AI, agriculture, global tech innovation, and the burgeoning opportunities within the African tech ecosystem. Tune in to be inspired by Freddie's story and the groundbreaking work of Aya Data. Show Notes: 00:00 Excited for impactful work and entrepreneurial opportunities. 03:03 Harness Ghana's talent, create jobs, provide services. 07:29 Primary customers: big farms; secondary: insurance, investment. 10:31 Mobile payments grow; medical tech innovates solutions. 16:23 Validating milestones, major partnerships, protectable IP achievements. 19:51 V7 Labs' data room template aids fundraising success. 22:49 Investing to scale SaaS products globally. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/aya-data-raises-900k-in-seed-round Freddie Monk's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freddie-monk-38347456/ Aya Data's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aya-data/ Aya Data's Website: https://www.ayadata.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Roy Pereira, the CEO and co-founder of Unified. Roy's journey through the tech world is nothing short of captivating; from dropping out of university to jumpstart his entrepreneurial career, to navigating the ins and outs of Silicon Valley, and eventually founding multiple startups. Unified, his latest venture, provides an innovative API integration infrastructure that saves SaaS companies valuable time and resources. Join us as Roy delves into the specifics of Unified's services, the challenges and triumphs of building API integrations, and the strategic evolution of their pricing models. We also discuss the startup's unique approach to inbound marketing, their lean yet efficient team dynamics, and the arduous but rewarding path of fundraising in today's market. Roy shares invaluable advice for fellow SaaS founders and gives us a glimpse of what's on the horizon for Unified. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with practical wisdom and entrepreneurial inspiration! Show Notes: 00:00 Unified to: Simplifies API integration, saves time. 05:21 Developed new, customer-friendly, sliding scale pricing model. 08:34 Founded in 2023; automated platform for efficiency. 13:24 Raising funds is difficult; requires targeted networking. 16:05 Metrics-focused meetings emphasize KPIs and customer journeys. 17:30 Expanding API integrations; aiming for 500 total. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/unified-to-secures-1-1m-cad-in-pre-seed-round Roy Pereira's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roypereira/ Unified's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unified-to/ Unified's Website: https://unified.to/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host Brian Elliott, CEO and co-founder of Blitzy—a groundbreaking company pushing the boundaries of software development through AI. Brian's journey is nothing short of inspiring, starting from his education and service at West Point and Army Special Operations, to Harvard Business School, where he met his co-founder, Sid, and laid the foundation for what would become Blitzy. Their mission? To democratize and accelerate software development using cutting-edge AI technologies. In our conversation, Brian delves into the nitty-gritty of building a tech startup from the ground up. He recounts the initial spark for Blitzy, which began as a pro bono project for a local bakery, and how it quickly evolved into a robust platform serving major enterprises, especially in finance and insurance. He elaborates on the unique value proposition of Blitzy—generating enterprise-quality code at breakneck speeds, dramatically compressing development cycles, and offering unparalleled efficiency. We also look ahead to the future of SaaS, contemplating how innovations like Blitzy might reshape the industry landscape. With discussions on product development, pricing, and go-to-market strategies, Brian provides a wealth of insights that are sure to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals alike. So, plug in those headphones and join us for a captivating discussion that bridges technology, business, and innovation. Show Notes: 00:00 Served Army, founded Blitzy using AI innovations. 04:52 Achieved enterprise software breakthrough, patenting technological innovations. 06:25 Expensive product tailored for businesses' code needs. 10:31 Extensible full-cycle system for legacy tech industries. 15:55 Boston's ecosystem excellent for attracting talented researchers. 18:49 Revenue focus; manage pipeline; assess code quality. 20:12 Converted service customers to engaged SaaS users. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/blitzy-raises-4-4-million-in-funding Brian Elliott's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancelliott/ Blitzy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blitzyai/ Blitzy's Website: https://blitzy.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're excited to bring you an insightful conversation with Mohammad AlRazaz, the co-founder and CEO of OTO. Mohammad's journey is nothing short of remarkable—from his beginnings in electrical engineering to his leap into the startup world, and eventually founding OTO, a revolutionary shipping gateway. This platform empowers small and medium-sized businesses to level the playing field against industry giants like Amazon by offering an all-in-one shipping management solution. Throughout our discussion, Mohammad sheds light on the origins and rapid growth of OTO. He explains how the company initially targeted omnichannel clients but quickly expanded to serve a wide range of e-commerce businesses. Mohammad also shares their strategic shift from a sales-led approach to a product-led growth model, allowing 80% of their clients to onboard without human interaction. This episode is packed with practical insights, including their fundraising journey which culminated in a successful Series A round, and the vital metrics that guide their business decisions. As we dive deeper, you'll hear Mohammad's valuable advice for other SaaS founders, especially those eyeing their Series A. He emphasizes the importance of identifying key milestones, the challenges of fundraising, and strategies for global expansion. If you're keen on understanding how to scale a startup and compete with major players, this episode is a must-watch. So, sit back, relax, and let's learn from Mohammad AlRazaz's incredible journey with OTO. Show Notes: 00:00 Engineer turned entrepreneur; excels in business ventures. 06:58 Auto facilitates shipping and warehouse management growth. 08:50 Started in auto, thrived connecting during COVID. 12:06 Fast-growing SaaS company raised $3 million seed. 15:01 Shifted to PLG for customer acquisition success. 18:32 Expanding to Turkey requires localization and investment. 22:02 Fundraising consumes time, prioritize building and scaling. 25:36 Expanding businesses in MENA, GCC, and beyond. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/riyadh-based-saas-startup-oto-raises-3-million-in-seed-round Mohammad AlRazaz's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malrazaz/ Oto's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tryotocom/ Oto's Website: https://tryoto.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host Mark Walker, the visionary co-founder of Revved Up. With a dynamic background ranging from the events industry to pivotal roles in tech and SaaS, including growth leadership at Eventbrite and various startups, Mark's journey is packed with insights on building and scaling go-to-market teams. His unique career trajectory and vast experience offer a wealth of knowledge for anyone navigating the fast-paced world of tech startups. In this episode, Mark introduces us to Revved Up, an innovative platform leveraging AI to transform account-based marketing. Born from Mark's challenges as a CRO in ensuring consistent, relevant outreach, Revved Up provides scalable research and bespoke content. Its mission is to simplify lead generation and enhance engagement with prospects. Mark's insights on AI in marketing are sure to inspire SaaS founders and marketers looking to innovate and optimize their strategies. Additionally, Mark shares his fundraising journey, having raised nearly a million dollars in pre-seed funding to propel Revved Up's growth. From initial struggles to oversubscribed rounds, his experiences yield invaluable lessons for other founders. With their headquarters in London and a remote team spanning continents, Revved Up is on an exciting trajectory. As Mark and his team gear up for the next phase, we'll get a sneak peek into what's ahead. Whether you're intrigued by AI, SaaS marketing, or startup funding, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. So sit back, relax, and let's dive in! Show Notes: 00:00 Revved Up focuses on educating and resonating buyers. 04:22 Scaling ABM principles for outreach across markets. 08:47 AI tools personalize large, complex deals efficiently. 12:34 Improving UX and surprising clients with AI. 14:04 Raised large pre-seed due to high interest. 19:38 Expanding team aligns with tools' effectiveness improvement. 21:16 Aim: Increase response rate to 5%. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/revvedup-raises-850k-pre-seed-round Mark Walker's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfdimark/ Revved Up's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/revvedupai/ Revved Up's Website: https://revvedup.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another riveting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! I'm your host, Ben, and today we have an extraordinary guest with us—Richard White, the founder and CEO of Fathom. With a background as a computer scientist, Richard quickly transitioned into the world of product design and has since become a pioneer in AI-powered software. He honed his skills and experience during his time with Y Combinator and through his previous venture, UserVoice, which laid the groundwork for his current success. Today, Fathom stands as the number one rated AI note taker on G2, making waves with its innovative approach to simplifying meeting notes and enhancing productivity. In our conversation, Richard opens up about the unique fundraising strategies that powered Fathom's growth, including an impressive $27.3 million raised across multiple tranches and a notable series A. He also shares his insights on the evolving landscape of AI in SaaS products, discussing the challenges and opportunities that come with integrating advanced AI capabilities. Richard's perspective on the importance of user satisfaction, exemplified by Fathom's world-class NPS score, offers valuable lessons for any SaaS professional aiming to build products that not only solve problems but delight users. Whether you're a startup enthusiast, a seasoned SaaS executive, or someone intrigued by the future of AI in business, today's episode is brimming with insights you won't want to miss. Richard's passion for creating products that truly enhance user experience and his strategic approach to building a successful SaaS company provide a goldmine of knowledge. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by Richard White's remarkable journey and the innovative work happening at Fathom. Let's dive into the conversation! Show Notes: 00:00 Fathom: free AI notetaker, popular, premium options. 05:54 Fortunate entry into Zoom marketplace accelerated success. 08:05 Aggressive Moore's Law application, Amazon-style long-term strategy. 12:47 Unique, coalition-building fundraising strategy with small checks. 14:51 Series A expectations now demand fully developed businesses. 17:57 Founder prefers direct approach over lengthy fundraising. 22:55 Monthly meetings assess MPS scores, engage customers. 23:47 Surfing AI wave: Insightful tools for teams. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/fathom-raises-17-million-in-series-a Richard White's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rrwhite/ Fathom's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fathom-video/ Fathom's Website: https://fathom.video/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Flynn Glover, co-founder and CEO of Schematic, join us for an insightful conversation. Flynn takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, from aspiring soccer player to successful entrepreneur. He shares how his first company, which started as a location-based app, evolved into a content marketing software and eventually got acquired. Flynn then dives into his current venture, Schematic, a platform that enhances Stripe for developers by managing the complexities of pricing and packaging for B2B SaaS companies. He explains how Schematic helps startups by offloading the infrastructural burden around Stripe, enabling them to focus on core product development. Flynn also discusses Schematic's unique approach to both early-stage and more established companies, and their recent public availability launch. With a solid blend of personal stories, strategic insights, and practical advice, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for any SaaS founder. Flynn shares his experience with fundraising, customer acquisition, and the innovative solutions Schematic brings to the table. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Show Notes: 00:00 Supercharging Stripe for developers' pricing infrastructure. 05:54 Focus: aiding engineering to optimize tiered offerings. 07:15 Early-stage companies prefer Schematic's easy implementation. 10:47 Founder hustle: referrals, stories; content-driven marketing. 13:46 Key milestone: Real customers trust product production. 17:53 Early stages, need pricing models, improve onboarding. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/schematic-raises-4-8-million-in-seed-round Flynn Glover's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fynn-glover-b0410015/ Schematic HQ's: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schematichq/ Schematic HQ's Website: https://schematichq.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS etrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Marty Ringlein, CEO and co-founder of Agree.com, joining us to share his invaluable insights on navigating the startup landscape. Marty brings a wealth of experience, from leading multiple successful startups to high-profile acquisitions by giants like Twitter and Eventbrite. In today's discussion, Marty delves into the significance of perfecting your pitch through frequent practice, the importance of building investor relationships before seeking funds, and the innovative solutions his company offers. Agree.com is revolutionizing the e-signature, invoicing, and payment processing space, employing cutting-edge technology like OCR and generative AI to streamline workflows and ensure data privacy. We'll explore how Marty's team of six operates remotely across different time zones, driving rapid development and user growth. Marty also shares some unconventional yet effective guerrilla marketing strategies that have helped Agree.com gain traction, along with his journey in securing a $3 million pre-seed fund. Additionally, we'll cover practical advice for SaaS entrepreneurs on fundraising and standing out in a crowded market. From novel product features to Marty's forward-thinking approach to business operations, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. Tune in to learn from one of the industry's most dynamic leaders! Show Notes: 00:00 E-signature challenges: contract completion, payment integration. 03:27 Generative AI boosts OCR accuracy for invoices. 08:02 $50M threshold: key for organizational collaboration activation. 10:28 MVP facilitates bank transactions via Stripe integration. 14:53 Tracking users and signature numbers for engagement. 17:49 Inserts promotional cards into magazines at airports. 20:21 Capital needed to compete against major incumbents. 25:37 Build early relationships and stand out uniquely. 26:48 Originality matters over following predictable strategies. 30:39 AR, AP automation optimizes financial and sales processes. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/agreecom-secures-3m-in-pre-seed-round Marty Ringlein's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martymadrid/ Agree's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agreehq/ Agree's Website: https://agree.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another insightful episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have Paul Singh, the dynamic CEO of Strata, join us for an in-depth conversation. With a rich background ranging from web hosting and angel investing to co-founding a venture firm and launching a subscription box company, Paul brings a wealth of experience and unique perspectives. In this episode, we'll explore the intricacies of Strata's innovative billing-aware practice management platform which streamlines everything from EMR and scheduling to marketing. Paul delves into the company's efficient client onboarding process, their unique sales model involving clinicians as sales reps, and the strategic decision to raise $25 million after a decade of being bootstrapped. We'll also discuss the significant impact Strata has on its clients, improving both financial and patient outcomes, and the company's focus on key metrics like patient visits and unit transactions. Paul shares his philosophy of optimizing for fun and profit, his strategic approach to fundraising, and the importance of selecting the right growth partners. Tune in as Paul provides valuable insights into running a SaaS business, navigating the challenges of the healthcare software industry, and his visionary approach to integrating various medical disciplines into Strata's comprehensive platform. Get ready to learn, be inspired, and gain actionable ideas for your own SaaS journey. Show Notes: 00:00 Evolved businesses, fatherhood; founded Bump, Strata. 04:31 Billing-aware practice management platform for outpatient services. 08:47 Managing medical practices requires adaptable, varied strategies. 10:18 Variable revenue through collection percentage, no software fee. 13:51 EMR prices rising, focusing on patient visits. 19:25 Evolving into tech-focused company for profitability. 20:34 Navigating company culture while reinventing ourselves. 25:27 Email-gated chart identifies marketing qualified leads. 29:01 Guidance for profit-driven hire and onboarding process. 31:05 Maximizing sales by educating customers on opportunities. 35:05 Reflecting on life's time, fundraising challenges ensued. 36:47 Starting a business is stressful, needs guidance. 40:25 Optimizing for freedom, power, money, fun, profit. 43:10 Money can't solve this industry's unique challenges. 45:54 Track North Star and growth metrics monthly. 49:11 Insightful episode worth sharing with SaaS community. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/stratapt-raises-25-million-in-funding Paul Singh's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulsingh/ StrataPT's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stratapt/ StrataPT's Website: https://www.stratapt.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, SaaS CFO enthusiasts! In this episode, we have a fascinating conversation with Bilal Tahris, the co-founder and CEO of FlowIt, a company revolutionizing people development through its AI-powered digital coach. Bilal's journey is nothing short of extraordinary—starting out as a diesel mechanic apprentice, he transitioned to helming his family business before diving into the SaaS realm. Join our host, Ben, as Bilal shares how FlowIt focuses on sectors often overlooked, such as healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality, and aims to improve employee engagement and retention. We delve into the unique modules FlowIt offers, designed to connect with frontline workers and address their specific needs. Bilal articulates how the company's innovative approach not only gathers insights through frequent, efficient surveys but also leverages AI to provide valuable, actionable feedback to leadership. We also explore FlowIt's impressive growth and strategic expansion plans into the German and Nordic markets, with an eye on entering the Americas. Bilal opens up about their successful fundraising journey, sharing valuable lessons and tips for other founders navigating similar paths. Whether you're an aspiring SaaS founder or simply intrigued by innovative business solutions, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in! Show Notes: 00:00 Engaging frontline workers through digital development. 05:38 AI enhances company insights and decision-making efficiently. 08:29 Newly unified employee platform expands in modules. 12:10 Decided to fundraise 3 million Swiss francs. 16:56 Secure strong investors early; double VC prospects. 18:22 Insight on aligning timelines and key metrics. 21:30 Learn more about Bilal's journey at Flowit AI. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/flowit-raises-4-2-million-in-seed-round Bilal Tahris' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bil%C3%A2l-tahris-9074b320/ FlowIt's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowit-ag/ FlowIt's Website: https://www.flowit.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Gary Liskovich, the co-founder and CEO of Harmonyze, join us. Gary's journey is nothing short of fascinating—starting as a mechanical engineer, his career transitioned from academic research to working with cutting-edge technology at Deloitte and Evolution IQ. Today, he's channeling his diverse experiences into revolutionizing the franchise industry through Harmonyze. We'll dive into how Gary and his team use AI to streamline operations, compliance, and decision-making for franchisors, making them more profitable and efficient. Gary explains the intricate dynamics between franchisors and franchisees and how Harmonyze's AI agent technology simplifies complex tasks and aggregates data to reduce risk and enhance cohesion within franchise networks. Plus, we'll discuss the challenges and strategies of building and scaling a SaaS company from the ground up. Gary shares insights from Harmonyze's early days, including their Pre-Seed fundraising journey and the philosophy behind their product development. Whether you're a startup enthusiast, an AI aficionado, or someone intrigued by the nuances of franchising, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Let's get started! Show Notes: 00:00 AI streamlined complex insurance claims management. 05:32 AI enhances relationships and value across franchise locations. 07:11 System analyzes franchises for overlaps, expirations. 12:27 Founder-led, product-driven, learning-focused seed stage startup. 14:46 Educating investors on franchising challenges through storytelling. 18:12 Focus on solving problems, not features. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/harmonyze-secures-2-million-in-pre-seed-round Gary Liskovich's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-liskovich/ Harmonyze's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonyze/ Harmonyze's Website: https://www.harmonyze.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Pete Foley, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of ModelOp. With a rich background as a serial entrepreneur, Pete has successfully launched and sold several companies in the enterprise software space, including notable names like Infoblox and a thriving security company out of Israel. Now, Pete's latest venture, ModelOp, is pioneering in the rapidly growing field of AI governance, helping enterprises seamlessly and safely integrate AI models into their operations. ModelOp offers an enterprise software designed to ensure compliance with internal and external regulations while maintaining the efficacy of AI models. This innovative approach positions ModelOp at the forefront of the AI market, which continues to expand at an unprecedented pace. In this episode, Pete shares invaluable insights into his journey, market dynamics, and the strategic vision driving ModelOp forward. Whether you're interested in AI, SaaS, or entrepreneurial growth, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Tune in for an in-depth conversation packed with industry expertise and forward-looking perspectives. Show Notes: 00:00 Exited tech startups, ventured into emerging AI market. 03:43 Enterprise software for AI governance and orchestration. 07:49 AI interest spans all industries, emphasizing global opportunities. 09:58 Emerging Chief AI Officer role within organizations. 14:00 AI attracts significant attention and market tailwind. 19:09 Competitive advantage and strong multi-year contracts secured. 22:16 Understanding market maturity prevents over-investment mistakes. 23:44 ARR reflects growth and competitive advantage focus. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/modelop-raises-10-million-in-series-b Pete Foley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petefoley2/ ModelOp's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/modelop/ ModelOp's Website: https://www.modelop.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have a special guest, Alex Jekowsky, co-founder and CEO of Cents, as he joins our host, Ben, to delve into the dynamic world of modern laundromat management. Alex's unique journey from founding a payments platform for college campuses to investing in laundromats led him to identify a significant gap in sophisticated software solutions for the industry. In this episode, we'll explore how Cents provides an all-in-one solution for laundromats, combining software and hardware to streamline operations and enhance customer experience. We'll also discuss the importance of a high-quality onboarding process to reduce churn, the role of fulfillment centers, and the company's strategic approach to revenue streams, including subscriptions, processing, and hardware sales. Alex will share insights on fundraising, emphasizing the importance of aligning with investors and the role of storytelling and metrics in securing capital. Tune in to discover how Cents is revolutionizing the laundromat industry, covering thousands of locations across the U.S., and aiming for triple-digit growth with innovative solutions and a dedicated team. If you're interested in the intersection of SaaS, fintech, and the laundry industry, you won't want to miss this informative and inspiring conversation. Stay tuned! Show Notes: 00:00 Considered investing in laundromats after Moto acquisition. 04:13 POS for laundromats enhances service management efficiency. 08:09 High-touch support with streamlined onboarding and implementation. 09:59 Focus on recurring revenue, hardware as loss leader. 15:28 Expanding laundry services across diverse real estate sectors. 17:51 Selling software and hardware through strong distribution. 21:13 Strategic M&A leverages market opportunities for growth. 24:04 Fundraise strategically; tailor stages to investors' expectations. 29:05 Focusing on innovation and deeper laundry industry integration. 30:25 Hiring for various roles; open to connections. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/cents-raises-40-million-in-series-b Alex Jekowsky's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajekowsky/ Cents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trycents/ Cents Website: https://www.trycents.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, listeners! Today on The SaaS CFO Podcast, we have an exciting episode lined up for you. Our host, Ben, sits down with Sam Oliver, the founder and CEO of OpenFi. Sam's entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring, having been involved in the startup world for over 14 years with both successes and lessons learned from failures. Notably, Sam grew his previous company, Lead Pro, into a market leader before exiting in a multi-million pound deal. In this episode, Sam shares his insight into the motivations behind selling Lead Pro, the driving forces behind his current venture OpenFi, and the fascinating potential of conversational AI to transform sales processes. OpenFi, an innovative company specializing in automating the Sales Development Representative (SDR) role, aims to leverage AI to enhance follow-up efficiency, manage leads, and improve customer engagement. Sam provides an in-depth look at how OpenFi is poised to revolutionize professional services using Salesforce integration. Whether you're a founder, an investor, or a tech enthusiast curious about the future of AI in professional services, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in to hear Sam's perspectives on building value, managing risks, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for OpenFi. Don't miss it! Show Notes: 00:00 Started company to solve problems, built value. 05:04 Impressed by AI, overcame doubts, founded company. 07:42 AI builds knowledge base, codifies sales script. 13:32 Third-time founders benefit from network, credibility. 14:34 Focus on targeted niche using Salesforce outreach. 20:45 Prefer direct customer sales over fundraising. 23:11 Excited for robust technology launch and scalability. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/openfi-closes-585k-in-pre-seed-round Sam Oliver's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam0liver/ OpenFi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/openfi-tech/ OpenFi's Website: https://openfi.tech/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, SaaS CFO enthusiasts! In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Paul Dudley, the insightful co-founder and CEO of Streamkap. Paul shares his intriguing journey through the SaaS landscape, from his early days as an analyst at Quid to scaling Brightedge's sales in Europe, and eventually founding Streamkap in 2022. Paul dives deep into the world of streaming ETL, explaining how Streamkap is revolutionizing data movement by offering real-time data processing solutions. We talk about the company's unique value propositions, ideal customer profiles, and pragmatic go-to-market strategies. Paul reveals how Streamkap tackles complex data problems by making streaming data much more accessible and faster than traditional batch processing. Real-world examples, such as real-time data needs in logistics and payments, help illustrate the practical applications of Streamkap's technology. Paul also outlines Streamkap's growth trajectory, funding rounds, and plans for the future. From early customer engagements to raising pre-seed and seed rounds, Paul delves into the company's strategic decisions and lessons learned along the way. Listen in as we explore the exciting advancements in real-time data and gain valuable insights from Paul's extensive experience in the SaaS domain. Don't miss this enlightening episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Show Notes: 00:00 Streaming ETL for real-time data integration. 04:02 Shift to affordable, real-time streaming data systems. 07:59 Focus: Mid-market, small enterprises, not startups. 12:14 Launched data transfer product; secured customers, scaled. 15:30 Customer feedback is crucial for prioritization decisions. 18:28 Focus on integrating data into existing architectures. 20:44 New content, customer focus, product transformations. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/streamkap-secures-3-3-million-in-funding Paul Dudley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldudley/ Streamkap's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/streamkap/ Streamkap's Website: https://streamkap.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, our host Ben is joined by the dynamic team behind Toystack, a groundbreaking DevOps platform on Kubernetes designed to simplify and scale deployment for startups and SMBs. We have Mukund, Arun, Sravan, and Torun here to discuss how Toystack operates like an innovative coworking space for DevOps, providing essential services like security, logging, monitoring, and alerts. Together, they delve into the origins of Toystack, targeting developers and startups who lack dedicated DevOps engineers, and how it accelerates product development while cutting costs. We'll explore their user growth strategy, community engagement on Discord, and future plans for integrating AI and new frameworks. The team will share insights on their monetization approach, focusing on converting trial users to paying customers, and their ambitious goals to double their user base in the coming months. We'll also hear about their journey in securing initial revenue, their decision to maintain the name "Toystack" despite enterprise considerations, and their adventures in funding and team dynamics. Whether you're part of a small startup or an enterprise team, you won't want to miss the valuable lessons and strategies from the co-founders of this innovative platform. So tune in and get ready to be inspired by the story of Toystack! Show Notes: 00:00 Investment banker turned entrepreneur with ecommerce marketplace. 05:30 Effortless cloud deployment for developers without DevOps. 07:04 Toystack: Scalable DevOps platform for startups' deployment. 12:24 Launched in February, achieved 7000 users globally. 16:19 Focusing on product-led growth for next years. 18:57 We bootstrapped until gaining traction before fundraising. 23:38 Doubling user growth, fostering an active community. 25:49 Community support and deployments are crucial metrics. 28:17 Toystack showcases live open source project deployments. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/toystack-ai-raises-325k-in-pre-seed-round Toystack's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/toystack/ Toystack's Website: https://toystack.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have a remarkable guest joining us—Lin Qiao, the CEO and co-founder of Fireworks AI. Lin brings a wealth of expertise from her days as a researcher and software engineer, having worked at industry giants like IBM and Facebook. She'll share her inspiring journey from academia to leading innovations in the AI space. In this episode, Lin takes us through the revolutionary products Fireworks AI offers, aimed at transforming how application developers and product engineers leverage GenAI technology. Imagine building advanced AI-driven applications in days instead of years, without needing an army of engineers. Lin expertly breaks down the company's offerings using a compelling car assembly analogy, making it easy for us to grasp the intricate layers of their technology. We'll also dive into the diverse industry applications of Fireworks AI, spanning startups, digital-native enterprises, and traditional companies. Lin discusses the groundbreaking shifts this technology can bring, the unique challenges and costs involved, and how her company aims to simplify this landscape for developers and enterprises alike. Furthermore, Lin opens up about Fireworks AI's impressive milestones, including their fundraising journey, key metrics, and future product directions. Whether you're an app developer or an enterprise executive, this conversation promises invaluable insights into accelerating innovation with GenAI. So, grab your headphones and join us for an enlightening discussion with Lin Qiao on The SaaS CFO Podcast! Show Notes: 00:00 From researcher to impactful software engineer at Facebook. 05:47 Mobile apps revolutionized industries, creating vast opportunities. 06:49 Create videos for automation and business efficiency. 09:55 Latency challenges with engaging, high-size JNAI models. 13:33 Accelerating strategy and execution for diverse companies. 17:01 Critical partnerships, funding growth, expand AI system, teamwork. 22:05 Explore and deploy models with Fireworks AI. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/fireworks-ai-secures-25-million-in-series-a https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/fireworks-ai-raises-52-million-in-series-b Lin Qiao's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lin-qiao-22248b4/ Fireworks AI's Linkedn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fireworks-ai/ Fireworks AI's Website: https://fireworks.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have an exciting conversation lined up with Nicholas Christiaen and Jonas Deprez, the co-CEOs and co-founders of Donna—a next-generation assistant designed to revolutionize the way sales reps manage their CRM data. Nicholas and Jonas bring a wealth of experience from their previous successful startups, Cashforce and Dalbix, respectively. They share their incredible journey of meeting through a mutual investment opportunity, leveraging their combined expertise to co-found Donna. In this episode, we dive into the unique features of Donna, its target industries, and the significant pain points it addresses for field sales reps. We also discuss their recent fundraising success, raising $1.7 million in just three weeks, and their ambitious plans to scale globally. Whether you're interested in how to streamline sales processes, the dynamics of starting a new SaaS venture, or the intricacies of fundraising, this episode has something for you. Stay tuned as Nicholas and Jonas reveal their insights and the future direction of Donna! Learn more about Donna at askdonna.com. Let's get started! Show Notes: 00:00 Donna is the perfect assistant for sales reps. 03:26 Helping reduce admin for sales-intensive industries. 07:06 Main targets: VP sales, innovation leads, sales reps. 10:11 Focused on adoption and potential paid programs. 13:32 Raised $1.7 million quickly with unexpected momentum. 19:53 ROI, time saved, and increased business output. 21:37 Sales reps seeking advantages, PLG motion, enterprise. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/donna-secures-1-6-million-in-pre-seed-round Nicolas Christiaen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaschristiaen/ Jonas Deprez's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonasdeprez/ Ask Donna's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/donna-by-dealside/ Ask Donna's Website: https://askdonna.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Jonathan Sanders, the co-founder and CEO of Light. With an impressive background that includes working in finance and co-founding successful startups like Pleo and Junie, Jonathan brings a wealth of experience to the table. We dive into Jonathan's journey from the finance world in London to founding multiple startups, culminating in his latest venture, Light—a smart financial platform designed to simplify and modernize global finance operations for tech-driven, multinational companies. Jonathan shares insightful details about what sets Light apart, including its modern database architecture on AWS, its intuitive user interface, and seamless integrations with major platforms like Salesforce and HubSpot. Join us as we explore the challenges and innovations in the accounting software space, the importance of clean data during month-end closes, and the exciting future prospects for Light, including an ambitious goal of achieving one-hour month-end closes and the upcoming launch of their Light Command Interface. Whether you're a SaaS CFO, controller, or interested in the evolution of financial technology, you won't want to miss this episode! Show Notes: 00:00 Modern, cloud-hosted, simplified, fast, accounting ledger platform. 07:14 Fast, scalable AI-driven general ledger for clean data. 11:05 Partner for bookkeeping and scaling multinational finance functions. 14:54 Identifying companies transitioning to multinational operations. 17:18 Raised $13M to create scalable accounting products. 20:08 Partner with experts, plan indirectly, prove concepts, learn. 24:05 AI-driven automation for seamless operations and strategy. 25:59 Natural language simplifies complex accounting transactions. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/light-raises-13-million-in-funding Jonathan Sanders' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-sanders/ Light's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uselightinc/ Light's Website: https://light.inc/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast, where we dive deep into the financial strategies and innovations within the SaaS industry. In today's episode, our host Ben sits down with Paul Kleen, the founder of Pitchit, a pioneering company in the lead qualification space powered by AI. Since its inception in August 2022, Pitchit has transformed the way sales teams handle and prioritize leads, particularly in the telecommunications sector. Paul shares insights into the fully remote structure of Pitchit, their unique pricing model that moves away from traditional SaaS frameworks, and the company's impressive revenue metrics, ranging from hundreds of millions to billions annually. You'll hear about the innovative lead scoring system, the challenges and successes in fundraising, and the strategic go-to-market approaches that set Pitch It apart. This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone navigating the SaaS landscape, providing a glimpse into how AI is disrupting traditional sales processes and the future of remote work. So grab your headphones and tune in to this enlightening conversation with Paul Kleen on The SaaS CFO Podcast. Show Notes: 00:00 AI agent qualifies leads and books meetings efficiently 03:57 We target telecommunications dealers selling to consumers. 09:28 Selling AI-based lead qualification service, not features. 11:24 Spam filtered, engagement evaluated, scored cold, warm, hot. 15:49 Human interaction in customer service remains indispensable. 18:29 Keynotes attract influencers, driving effective customer acquisition. 21:05 Niche-specific expos more valuable than broad ones. 23:48 Raised funds minimally to avoid potential pivots. 28:59 Product market fit measured by qualified leads. 32:55 Selected niche clients before publicly raising funding. 33:51 Start stealthily, refine product before advertising broadly. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/pitchit-raises-2-5-million-in-seed-round Paul Kleen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulkleen/ Pitchit's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pitchitai/ Pitchit's Website: https://www.pitchit.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have a riveting conversation lined up with Tom Aley, the co-CEO and co-founder of Aidentified. Join our host Ben as he dives deep into Tom's extensive journey through the high-tech world, beginning in the late '90s and evolving into his current role at Aidentified. Tom shares his early experiences in high-tech sales and his transition into launching a venture fund at Reed Elsevier Ventures, setting the stage for his future entrepreneurial endeavors. In this episode, you'll hear about Tom's journey of founding several successful companies, including Generate and NetProspex, both of which were sold to industry giants like Dow Jones and Dun & Bradstreet. Tom elaborates on how Aidentified is transforming financial services with its cutting-edge SaaS application and data services, offering unparalleled insights and relationship mapping for clients. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in merging consumer and business data to create a comprehensive 360-degree view of individuals and organizations. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, Tom's insights on scaling a business, fundraising, and strategic partnerships are sure to provide invaluable lessons. He offers a candid look at the complexities of growing a tech company, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, quality control, and strategic investor partnerships. Don't miss this episode packed with wisdom and practical advice straight from the trenches of the tech industry! Show Notes: 00:00 Raised funds, sold company, crowdsource data, AI, sold twice. 03:05 Integrated 360 view merging personal and business insights. 06:59 Diverse data matching expands networking opportunities greatly. 09:48 Go-to-market strategy: telesales and direct outreach. 12:57 Constant sales growth, pandemic challenges, financial focus, successful funding. 16:00 Choose VCs with relevant industry operational experience. 20:33 Efficient service with fixed gross margins, high. 21:55 Revenue focus essential for sustained business growth. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/aidentified-secures-12-5-million-in-series-b Tom Aley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taley/ Aidentified's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aidentified/ Aidentified's Website: https://www.aidentified.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we chat with Leon Panjtar, co-founder and CEO of SaleSqueze, a trailblazing configure price quote (CPQ) platform. Leon brings a fascinating journey from his background in robotics engineering to the world of software development and entrepreneurship. Together, we dive into how SaleSqueze is revolutionizing the sales process for complex and customizable products across various industries like home and garden furniture, medical equipment, motorhomes, and more. Leon shares insights into their growth strategies, including their focus on SMBs, the significant milestones that guided their fundraising journey, and their ambitious plans for the future. Whether it's discussing their innovative approach to reducing manual sales processes or the impact of their visual CPQ solutions, Leon offers ample wisdom for SaaS CFOs and entrepreneurs alike. He also delves into their impressive achievements, such as doubling their ARR in the first half of the year and plans to reach $1 million by year's end. Join us as we explore the innovative ways SaleSqueze is making waves in the CPQ space and Leon's vision for the company's path to $125 million in ARR. Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice for budding SaaS entrepreneurs and fascinating stories from the trenches of startup life. Show Notes: 00:00 Complex products require manual sales processes. 03:46 Automating complex distribution for diverse product verticals. 08:36 Two approaches: inbound advertising and outbound outreach. 11:29 Lead investor Bogdan convinced by self-service milestone. 15:07 Launching self-service product, scaling and expanding use cases. 16:15 Check salesqueze.com, LinkedIn for more information. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/salesqueze-secures-1-4-million-in-seed-round Leon Panjtar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonpanjtar/ SaleSqueze's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/salesqueze/ SaleSqueze's Website: https://salesqueze.com/ SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to have Roee Barak, founder, and CEO of Upward AI, as our guest. Roee, based in Tel Aviv, shares his fascinating career journey that took him from law school to the tech industry. With nearly a decade of experience in various business roles, including business development, sales, and marketing, Roee decided to launch his dream venture, Upward, to revolutionize AI-powered research and productivity tools. Join us as we dive deep into Roee's story, exploring the genesis of Upward and the innovative solutions it offers for high-stakes research in various industries. Roee provides a detailed walkthrough of how Upward helps users perform significant research, from defining objectives to gathering and synthesizing data, all the way to creating comprehensive reports and presentations. We also discuss Upward's go-to-market strategy, initial success on Product Hunt, and its impressive growth to over 1,000 paying subscribers in its first year. Lastly, Roee shares valuable insights on fundraising, team building, and the challenges of staying ahead in the fast-evolving AI landscape. Hear firsthand how Upward plans to transition from a single-user focus to a collaborative platform, aiming to bring substantial productivity gains to teams and enterprises. This episode is packed with lessons and inspiration for aspiring founders and SaaS enthusiasts. Don't miss it! Show Notes: 00:00 Need for a knowledge tool and productivity. 05:24 Content sourcing, research hub, notepad for outcomes. 06:56 Focused on end-user research tool before organizations. 11:33 Co-founders' AI journey: from skepticism to mainstream. 15:10 Key metric: New research projects from customers' usage. 16:46 Upward transitioning to collaborative research platform development. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/upword-raises-3-million-in-pre-seed-round Roee Barak's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roee-barak-20882887/ Upword AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/upwordai/ Upword AI's Website: https://www.upword.ai/ SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we have a fascinating discussion with Pujun Bhatnagar, the co-founder and CEO of Kintsugi. Pujun shares his journey from New Delhi to becoming a machine learning engineer at Facebook and eventually, a successful entrepreneur. We'll dive into Kintsugi's mission to simpujplify sales tax compliance using advanced technology, making it accessible for businesses globally. Pujun talks about the company's ambitious growth plans, aiming to reach $1 million, $5 million, and even $10 million in funding, and the significance of transparent conversations with investors. We'll explore how Kintsugi puts sales tax on autopilot for e-commerce and SaaS companies, the impact of regulatory changes from cases like South Dakota vs. Wayfair, and the fierce competition in the compliance space. Additionally, Pujun is offering a special 15% discount for our listeners, so stick around to learn how you can benefit. Whether you're a startup or an established business, this episode is packed with invaluable insights on navigating the complex world of sales tax. Let's jump right in! 15% off using this link: Https://trykintsugi.com/benShow Notes: 00:00 Potential in untapped market through technological innovation. 04:13 Automate sales tax tracking for e-commerce businesses. 08:23 Government interaction handled for sales tax compliance. 11:05 Sales tax regulations shift, creating market opportunities. 17:02 Company headquartered in SF, expanding internationally, leveraging AI. 18:37 App quickly calculates sales tax liability from various platforms. 21:48 Providing latest sales tax news and advice. 25:22 Successfully partnered with VCs, expanded and adapted. 28:41 Investment strategy: long-term, ignore early valuation. 32:01 Focus on serving more customers globally, efficiently. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/kintsugi-raises-6-million-in-series-a Pujun Bhatnagar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pujun/ Kintsugi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pujun/ Kintsugi's Website: https://trykintsugi.com/ SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we are thrilled to introduce Aurora Maggio, the CEO and co-founder of Zefi AI. Aurora's journey is fascinating and somewhat unconventional for a SaaS founder, beginning with a background in architecture and transitioning into the world of AI and software. In our conversation, Aurora delves into the innovative solutions Zefi AI provides—aggregating and transforming qualitative customer interactions into actionable quantitative data for businesses. With a focus on reducing churn and prioritizing product roadmaps, Zefi AI targets a diverse range of industries, from digital to physical products. Join us as we explore Zefi's journey from its inception in Italy, its early funding rounds, the importance of design partners, and Aurora's insights on scaling and prioritizing feature requests. Whether you're a SaaS founder or an enthusiast, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons and inspiration. Tune in and learn how Zefi AI is revolutionizing customer insights and driving growth in the SaaS industry. Show Notes: 00:00 Diverse customer base, digital products, future trend. 04:51 SaaS tools connect data, analyze customer feedback. 08:02 PLG approach, focus on inbound lead generation. 11:54 Initiated investor talks, pivoted product, closed contracts. 13:22 Reaching out to founders for mutual support. 16:50 Enhancing onboarding for scaling and customer retention. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/zefi-ai-raises-1-6-million-in-pre-seed-funding Aurora Maggio's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aurora-maggio/ Zefi AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zefi-ai/ Zefi AI's Website: https://www.zefi.ai/ SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome back Itzik Alvas, Co-founder and CEO of Entro Security. Itzik, a seasoned expert in cybersecurity with past roles at IDMO and Microsoft, is making his mark in the industry by addressing the critical need for securing non-human identities and secrets in the digital world. Itzik is our first returning guest, having previously discussed the initial stages of Entro Security, and we're excited to catch up on the company's progress and achievements. Since founding the company in 2022, Itzik, along with his Co-founder and CTO Adam Schliki, has been dedicated to pioneering the non-human identity and secret security vertical, focusing on service accounts, API keys, and programmatic access keys that are essential for application authentication and service access. Under Itzik's leadership, Entro Security has experienced significant growth. The company, which started with just 20 employees, has now doubled its team size to 40. This headcount increase reflects their expansion in capabilities and market reach. Entro Security has attracted dozens of customers, including large enterprises and Fortune 100 companies, illustrating the high demand for their innovative solutions. Their dual headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Tel Aviv, Israel, strategically position them to cater to a diverse set of industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, and online travel. Itzik shares insights into the company's scaling journey, highlighting the importance of having a repetitive story and solving distinct problems to gain investor trust. Entro Security's recent funding achievements are also noteworthy. With a successful Series A round raising $18 million, on top of an initial $6 million seed round, the total capital raised now stands at $24 million. This infusion of funds is set to further propel their growth, with plans to expand their team and enhance their product offerings. Itzik delves into the lessons learned from the Series A fundraising process, emphasizing the need for traction, customer validation, and strong metrics such as CAC and ARR. As the conversation unfolds, Itzik provides valuable advice for other founders navigating similar paths. Tune in to this engaging episode to learn more about the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, Entro Security's ambitious plans, and the key metrics driving their success. Show Notes: 00:00 Background in cybersecurity, shifted from offense to defense. 04:13 Developers creating non-human identities without security oversight. 09:24 Sustainable business requires cost and metric improvement. 11:09 Find repetitive flow, acquire customers, tell investors. 15:35 Continued investment in non-human identity security. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/entro-security-closes-18-million-in-series-a Itzik Alvas' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itzik-alvas/ Entro Security's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/entro-security/ Entro Security's Website: https://entro.security/ SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome, everyone, to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast. Today, we're joined by Nathan Nasseri, CEO and founder of ResVR. Nathan brings his wealth of experience from 25 years in video game technology and his family's legacy as one of the largest home builders in Alberta. Combining his unique background with a deep understanding of the home building industry, Nathan has innovated the way production home builders visualize and sell homes. ResVR leverages gaming technology to help homebuyers see and experience their choices, making the often daunting process of selecting finishes and upgrades much more accessible and engaging. Nathan discusses his journey of shifting his business model from a services-based approach to a SaaS model and the impact this has had on their growth. He also sheds light on overcoming the industry's reluctance to adopt new tech and how ResVR proves its value through clear ROI for home builders. Join us as we explore how ResVR is transforming the home buying experience and the construction industry's approach to technology. Nathan shares fascinating insights into the company's rapid growth, their innovative solutions, and what the future holds. Don't miss this compelling conversation about the fusion of technology and real estate, only on The SaaS CFO Podcast. Show Notes: 00:00 Software for custom home builders and upgrades. 04:28 Software generates significant returns for home builders. 06:50 No setup fee, pay after using software. 12:29 Slow start but aiming for major growth. 15:08 Raised $1.7 million from various sources. 18:37 Raised money, turned customers into paid users. 20:52 New product release and exterior design focus. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/resvr-secures-cad-1-7-million-in-funding Nathan Nasseri's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathannasseri/ ResVR's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/resvr/ ResVR's Website: https://resvr.com/ SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, our host Ben is joined by Alok Goel, the co-founder and CEO of Drivetrain. Alok shares his journey from being a venture capitalist to becoming an entrepreneur and founding Drivetrain. He discusses the inspiration behind the company's mission to bring predictability to SaaS businesses and details the products and services offered by Drivetrain. Alok also dives into the company's approach to reaching CFOs and shares insights from his fundraising journey. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of aligning with investors who share the long-term vision of the business. Finally, Alok provides valuable input on the significance of leveraging multiple metrics to drive business decisions. This episode offers valuable insights for SaaS CFOs and entrepreneurs alike. Show Notes: 00:00 Hiring and timing crucial for SaaS success, aims for predictability. 03:39 We help with planning, data integration, and performance monitoring for achieving targets. 09:20 Different GTM approach focuses on authenticity, customer references, warm introductions, high-quality thought leadership content for CFOs. 10:04 Industry solutions, community content, mission alignment, demo impact on sales. 14:51 Regular communication with investors is essential to ensure alignment of vision and avoid energy-draining mismatches. Choose investors carefully to prevent business disruptions. 16:18 Multiple metrics better than few, beware target fixation. 19:47 Encourages random intellectual discussions with entrepreneurs and CFOs. Available for calls and message exchanges. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/drivetrain-ai-raises-15-million-in-funding Alok Goel's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goelalok/ Drivetrain's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drivetrainai/ Drivetrain's Website: https://www.drivetrain.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, SaaS CFO community! Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast. I'm your host, Ben, and today we have a special guest, Jake Soffer, the software founder, and CEO of FirmPilot. Jake's journey is nothing short of inspiring, starting from his days as a recruited hockey player at RPI, diving deep into the fascinating world of Natural Language Processing (NLP), and eventually venturing into entrepreneurship. In this episode, Jake shares invaluable insights from his experience founding Rollio, a cutting-edge natural language interface for CRMs, and how he navigated every classic first-time founder mistake along the way. We'll delve into FirmPilot, the innovative company he founded in 2023, which is revolutionizing the legal marketing landscape with AI-driven SEO, social media, and ad management solutions tailored for law firms. Tune in as Jake reveals FirmPilot's journey from a simple experiment to a thriving business, his strategic approach to targeting small and solo law firms, and how they've already achieved top Google rankings for their clients. Plus, you'll hear about how FirmPilot's go-to-market strategies, fundraising experiences, and metrics for success have shaped the company's growth trajectory. Whether you're a seasoned founder or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with lessons and inspiration. Let's dive in! Show Notes: 00:00 Data-driven content creation to boost online presence. 03:41 Transitioned from Rollio, helped brother, created MVP. 09:21 Personalized approach and creative outreach for sales. 12:42 Focus on key metrics for current stage. 14:39 Focused on growth, hired first set of bdRs. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/firmpilot-closes-7-million-in-series-a Jake Soffer's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-soffer-00797a62/ FirmPilot's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firmpilot/ FirmPilot's Website: https://firmpilot.com/ SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're excited to welcome Apoorva Kumar, the co-founder and CEO of Inspeq. Apoorva shares his fascinating journey from working in big tech companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and SAP to founding Inspeq in Q4 of last year. Inspeq is a trust layer platform for AI applications, addressing the growing concern of AI inconsistencies and inaccuracies. With a strong focus on enterprise customers, particularly consulting companies, Inspeq provides a robust evaluation and guardrailing solution for large language model applications. Apoorva discusses the importance of capital in their business, having recently raised $1.1 million from prominent AI funds and seasoned tech executives. He also shares valuable lessons for founders considering fundraising and emphasizes the significance of staying focused on customer enablement and product development. Join us as we dive into Apoorva's insights on the AI industry, Inspec's growth plans, and their mission to empower organizations to create reliable AI applications faster and cheaper. Don't forget to visit Inspeq.ai to learn more and start "inspeq-ting" your AI outputs today! Show Notes: 00:00 Relocated from Germany to Ireland, embraced tech. 06:07 Inspeq: Platform for AI application evaluation and optimization. 08:49 Promoting pay-as-you-go developers queue for customers. 12:50 Consulting companies executing multimillion dollar bespoke projects. 16:41 AI business needs capital for growth. 19:32 Guy wins competition, boosts validation and confidence. Heading to San Francisco for grand finale. 20:43 Enabling enterprise customers, focusing on product direction. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/inspeq-ai-secures-1-1-million-in-pre-series-a-funding Apoorva Kumar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apoorva-kumar-b2b08431/ Inspeq AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inspeq-ai/ Inspeq AI's Website: https://inspeq.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray