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saas.unbound is a podcast for and about founders who are working on scaling inspiring products that people love, brought to you by https://saas.group/, a serial acquirer of B2B SaaS companies. In episode #46 of season 5, Anna Nadeina talks with Alex, CEO and Founder of Competera, a pricing platform helping retailers increase their revenue. ----------- Episode's Chapters ----------- 00:00 - Meet Alex: From Medical Engineering to AI 02:33 - The Birth of Compra: Early Challenges and Innovations 07:47 - Navigating Enterprise Sales and AI Integration 10:13 - Overcoming API Roadblocks and Pivoting Strategies 15:18 - AI in Enterprise: Adoption and Challenges 30:02 - Discussing Pricing Strategies for Enterprise Customers 31:25 - Understanding Customer Acquisition Costs 32:51 - The Importance of Customer Feedback and Pricing Adjustments 37:26 - Challenges and Learnings in Enterprise Sales 39:40 - The Role of M&A Advisors and Strategic Partnerships 43:54 - Balancing Work and Life as a Founder Alex - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhalkin/ Competera - https://competera.ai/ Subscribe to our channel to be the first to see the interviews that we publish - https://www.youtube.com/@saas-group Stay up to date: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaaS_group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/14790796
What happens when a Silicon Valley exec who helped Lyft rewrite the rules brings that same playbook to cannabis?This week we sit down with Ashwin Raj, CEO of LeafLink, to break down how disciplined tech thinking and first-principle strategy can reshape a fragmented industry.In this episode:• How Lyft's regulatory battles mirror cannabis today• Why listening — not speed — builds trust and loyalty• How data, discipline, and adaptability will drive the next era of cannabis techChapters00:00 Introduction to Ashwin Raj and LeafLink02:02 Ashwin's Journey to the Cannabis Industry04:29 Navigating Challenges in the Cannabis Space07:19 Listening to Customers: The Key to Success10:05 Addressing Pricing Challenges13:11 Building Trust with Customers14:15 Balancing Competing Customer Needs16:25 Strategic Focus and Resource Allocation19:45 Long-Term Vision for LeafLink21:03 The Role of Technology in Cannabis23:05 Identifying Customer Needs26:53 Overcoming Industry Challenges30:45 The Impact of AI on LeafLink32:01 The Future of the Cannabis Industry36:10 The Role of Hemp in the Cannabis Market42:04 Building Trust with Retailers45:11 AI and Future Innovations at LeafLinkSummaryIn this episode, Bryan Fields and Kellen Finney interview Ashwin Raj, CEO of LeafLink, who shares his journey from the tech industry to the cannabis space. Ashwin discusses the challenges and opportunities within the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of listening to customers and building relationships with both clients and team members. He highlights the role of technology and efficiency in driving growth and the impact of the hemp industry on the cannabis market. Ashwin also touches on the need for regulatory clarity and the potential of AI in enhancing LeafLink's offerings.Guest Links:https://www.leaflink.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/leaflink/https://www.linkedin.com/in/tashwinraj/ Our LinksBryan Fields on TwitterKellan Finney on TwitterThe Dime on TwitterExtraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcastThe Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.
Today's clients don't want a pitch - they want proof. In this episode, Lori shares why testimonials are the modern form of word-of-mouth marketing and how they can become your most persuasive sales tool. You'll learn how to collect, craft, and showcase testimonials that build credibility, establish emotional connection, and pre-sell your offers before you ever get on a call. Lori breaks down the four types of testimonials every entrepreneur needs - results-based, experience-based, relationship, and emotional - and how each one connects to a different part of your buyer's brain. She also explains how new business owners can start gathering powerful testimonials even before landing their first paying clients, and how to turn that feedback into an authentic brand reputation. By the end of the episode, you'll know how to turn your clients' stories into your business's most powerful marketing engine and why proof beats pitch every single time.
Building a Doodle Empire Through Community-Driven Product DevelopmentGuest: Elina Panteleyeva, Founder of Dood WoofEpisode SummaryIn this insightful episode of Talk Commerce, Elina Panteleyeva shares how she transformed a 2023 layoff into a thriving ecommerce business focused exclusively on doodle owners. After discovering the audience-first approach from Ryan's "12 Months to 1 Million," Elina spent six months building a community before launching her first product. Through direct engagement in Facebook groups, she identified matting as the primary challenge for doodle owners and used ChatGPT to brainstorm solutions, leading to her all-natural detangler spray.Her organic launch strategy proved remarkably successful, achieving #1 new release on Amazon without paid advertising by leveraging her pre-built community of email subscribers and social media followers. The conversation covers her transparent approach to handling negative reviews, turning potential reputation damage into trust-building opportunities, and her systematic method for generating positive reviews through authentic customer relationships.Elina emphasizes continuous product development through customer feedback, conducting regular interviews to validate new concepts before manufacturing. Her content strategy focuses on providing genuine value through weekly blog posts and comprehensive FAQs, which serve dual purposes of helping customers and boosting SEO. Rather than expanding to other dog breeds, she maintains laser focus on the doodle market to maximize lifetime customer value and build deeper community connections. The episode concludes with information about her consulting services for entrepreneurs looking to build brands on limited budgets through community-driven strategies.[00:00 - 00:40] Introduction & Guest BackgroundHost introduction and welcome. Elina introduces herself as founder of Dood Woof and discusses her passion for DJing as a creative outlet. Brief overview of her ecommerce dog brand focused on the doodle market.[00:40 - 01:30] DJing Passion & LifestyleElina discusses her DJing hobby and live performances. Challenges of late-night gigs vs. lifestyle preferences. House parties and collaborative DJ sessions with friends. Humorous exchange about Las Vegas billboard aspirations.[01:30 - 02:15] Free Joke ProjectBrent's "Von Barked" pun and Netflix joke. Elina's rating: 10.3 out of 13 with granular scoring.[02:15 - 04:40] Origin Story & Business FoundationBackground: Immigration from Ukraine at age 3. Traditional career path through tech industry. 2023 layoff as catalyst for entrepreneurship. Discovery of "12 Months to 1 Million" book by Ryan. Audience-first approach vs. product-first methodology. Choosing doodle market due to organic content potential.[04:40 - 05:15] Market Research & Product IdeationFacebook group engagement strategy. Customer interviews about doodle challenges. Matting identified as primary problem. ChatGPT integration for product brainstorming. Decision to create all-natural detangler spray.[05:15 - 07:05] Launch Strategy & Amazon SuccessSix-month audience building phase. Email list and Instagram growth (600-1000 followers). Manufacturing process documentation. Launch day coordination and Amazon algorithm triggering. Achieving #1 new release status through organic traffic.[07:05 - 08:20] Review Management PhilosophyAmazon's strict policies on review incentives. Proactive review request strategies. Understanding review psychology (negative bias). Building systematic approaches for review generation.[08:20 - 10:10] Handling Negative ReviewsInevitability of bad reviews. Case study: Leaky bottle situation. Transparent communication with email list. Converting problems into trust-building opportunities. The 28:1 ratio (five-star reviews needed to counteract one-star).[10:10 - 12:15] Product Development ProcessContinuous audience feedback integration. Customer interview methodology for new products. Problem-solution fit validation. Contrast with traditional product development approaches. Creating products customers actively want vs. need creation.[12:15 - 14:40] Content Strategy & SEOQuestion-answer format implementation. Multi-channel customer inquiry management. Weekly blog content creation schedule. Value-driven content examples (grooming tips, DIY recipes). SEO optimization through helpful resources.[14:40 - 15:35] Market Focus & Expansion PhilosophyDecision to remain doodle-focused. Lifetime customer value prioritization. Community building vs. customer acquisition costs. "Doodle domination" strategy explanation.[15:35 - 16:25] Shameless PlugIntroduction of consulting services. "Branding on a budget" concept. Website: www.alinatalksbrand.com. Focus on community-building strategies.[16:25 - 16:30] ClosingFinal thanks and wrap-up.https://doodwoof.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooMyH00dW3RuNOQGz4OnWVEmQyvsOdcY4UP3DS8WLGpqRnpWrlc&variant=51603826245948
In this conversation, Aakash Prasad, CEO and co-founder of InspectMind AI, shares his journey from growing up in a family of engineers to becoming an entrepreneur in the tech-enabled engineering space. He discusses the importance of a beginner mindset, learning through experience, and the significance of perseverance in the face of challenges. Aakash also highlights the role of technology in engineering, the birth of InspectMind AI, and insights gained from participating in Y Combinator and AI Grant. He emphasizes the value of building relationships in the construction tech industry and shares strategies for customer acquisition. Takeaways Aakash grew up at the intersection of construction and software. Learning by doing is crucial for personal and professional growth. Every company is unique; a beginner mindset is essential. Perseverance is key; the greatest killer of startups is giving up. Building relationships is vital in the construction tech industry. Technology can significantly enhance engineering processes. Customer feedback is essential for product development. Y Combinator provides a strong community for founders. Networking and introductions are more effective than cold outreach. Not every business needs to aim for billion-dollar valuations. Chapters 00:00 From College to CEO: A Journey Begins 02:33 Learning by Doing: The Importance of Experience 04:53 Skills Development: From College to Entrepreneurship 07:17 The Long Game: Mindset and Perseverance 09:56 Navigating Challenges: The Importance of Taking Steps 12:20 Lessons from Past Ventures: Embracing the Beginner Mindset 15:07 Overcoming Low Points: The Power of Persistence 17:31 Building a Tech-Enabled Engineering Firm 20:00 Different Business Models: Lifestyle vs. Bold Vision 21:17 Understanding the VC vs. Private Equity Mindset 22:37 The Birth of InspectMind AI: From Idea to Execution 25:54 The Importance of Customer Feedback in Product Development 27:28 The Value of Community in Startup Ecosystems 31:17 Navigating Early Customer Acquisition 34:13 Go-to-Market Strategies and Experimentation 35:40 Building Trust in Traditional Industries 37:21 Personal Insights and Recommendations for Founders Don't miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/
In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Julie Murray, a marketing expert and business coach. Julie shares practical advice on building a strong brand for small businesses, highlighting the importance of defining a core purpose or "why" before focusing on logos or campaigns. Julie reveals how brand personality, customer feedback, and founder involvement can shape brand success. Julie also explores the impact of AI on marketing, strategies for overcoming resistance to self-promotion, and the value of clear goals and consistent messaging to help you grow your business.Listen out for Julie's actionable tips for entrepreneurs, founders, and owners alike, looking to create and grow meaningful brands, products, services, and businesses.In this episode, you'll learn:Julie's Background and Experience (00:01:56) Julie shares her marketing career, corporate roles, and transition to running her own agency and coaching business.The Importance of Defining Your “Why” (00:04:38) Julie explains why small businesses must clarify their core purpose before focusing on logos and marketing materials.Uncovering Brand Essence Through Personal Stories (00:06:26) Julie shares how personal highs and lows help reveal authentic brand purpose and target audience.Branding Is More Than a Logo (00:07:31) Julie suggests that branding goes beyond visual identity and can be revisited at any stage of business.Rebranding and Brand Audits (00:08:16) Julie advises on reviewing brand relevance, customer feedback, and standing out in the market.Brand Personality and Customer Feedback (00:09:52) The conversation covers developing a brand personality and using customer feedback to differentiate and improve.Scaling Brand Culture and Consistency (00:12:03) Julie highlights the importance of brand culture, founder influence, and consistency as businesses grow.Involving Team and Customers in Branding (00:12:58) Julie suggests involving employees, customers, and partners in shaping and evolving the brand.Using Customer Feedback as Marketing Content (00:13:52) Julie explains how to collect, use, and share customer feedback and testimonials as marketing material.Defining Brand by What It Isn't (00:15:15) Julie recommends clarifying brand identity by listing what the business is not, to sharpen focus.Finding Brand Uniqueness and Energy (00:17:24) Julie discusses following passion and energy to discover a brand's unique voice and resonance.Case Study: The Power of “Why” in Positioning (00:17:57) Julie shares a story about a home care business, illustrating how uncovering the founder's “why” transformed the brand.Aligning Passion, Skills, and Market Need (00:21:25) Julie introduces the “IKIGAI” model—success comes from combining passion, expertise, and market demand: what you are good at and what people will pay for.Breakthroughs in Brand Clarity (00:22:18) Julie describes how clients reach clarity through questioning, reflection, and external feedback.Balancing Passion and Market Demand (00:23:56) Julie addresses the challenge of when passion doesn't align with what people will pay for, and the need for honest...
In this episode, Alexa welcomes Swagat Kulkarni, a Senior Solutions Architect at Amazon Web Services, to discuss the intersection of AI, cloud innovation, and enterprise reality. Swagat shares his experience guiding large-scale digital transformations, emphasizing that success often hinges on people and culture, not just technology. They explore the rise of agentic AI, the challenges of moving from proof-of-concept to production , and the surprisingly crucial skill every tech leader needs: storytelling. Tune in to find out more about how to architect resilient systems that balance innovation with reality and why the future of tech depends on our ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn.You can also watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alexa_griffithAnd listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1tnV8Qk6SEw1Dr9Tqikr0H?si=ecU279HXTSa9issXm1jVmQLinksLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swagat-kulkarni/Blog: https://builder.aws.com/content/2eYN4c5L59qvGZY65RBcdoVtN4t/envoy-ai-gateway-with-amazon-bedrock-getting-started-guideKeywordsAI, digital transformation, cloud computing, agentic AI, storytelling, solutions architect, AWS, technology adoption, open source, innovationTakeawaysDigital transformation is about creating agility in organizations.Storytelling is crucial for conveying technical concepts to customers.AI adoption requires a clear understanding of the problems to solve.Simplicity in architecture leads to better outcomes.Cultural shifts are essential for successful digital transformation.Open source technologies can accelerate innovation.Customer feedback drives AWS's service development.Continuous learning is vital in the tech industry.Data readiness is critical for AI success.Leadership buy-in is necessary for transformation projects.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI and Digital Transformation02:26 Swagat Kulkarni's Journey in Tech05:24 Role of a Solutions Architect at AWS08:13 The Importance of Storytelling in Tech11:10 Understanding Digital Transformation15:05 Successful Transformation Projects17:09 Agentic AI and Its Real-World Applications20:13 Challenges in Adopting Agentic AI24:05 Customer Feedback and AWS's Approach29:59 Success Factors in Digital Transformation32:53 Embracing a Technology Mindset34:31 The Role of Leadership in Innovation35:40 Surprises in Customer Awareness37:52 Knowledge Sharing Dynamics in Organizations39:26 Cultural Shifts in Knowledge Sharing40:33 Exciting Tools for Developer Efficiency42:48 Misconceptions in AI Adoption44:33 Designing Resilient Architectures47:27 Feedback Loops and Continuous Improvement49:03 The Value of Open Source51:11 The Importance of Documentation in Open Source52:37 The Power of Storytelling in Tech57:12 Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts01:00:21 general_outro.wav
Learn how to Master Client Retention with Predictive Analytics Instead of Guesswork Things about client retention that most entrepreneurs get wrong: they're flying blind until it's too late. In this game-changing episode, I sit down with our Director of Community, Walker Renfrow, to pull back the curtain on the client retention strategies we've developed through real-world testing, data analysis, and relentless innovation. We're not talking about the same tired advice you'll find everywhere else—this is about moving from reactive churn management to predictive retention analytics that tell you there's a problem before your clients even know they're unhappy. If you're selling into a leaky bucket and wondering why your MRR isn't growing the way it should, this conversation is going to change everything. Walker Renfrow is one of those rare talents who wears many hats and excels at all of them. As our Director of Community at Predictable Profits, Walker has become a catalyst for growth—constantly innovating, solving problems in unique ways, and creating client experiences that don't just retain customers, they turn them into raving fans. With his background in entrepreneurship and experience across manufacturing, construction, and business coaching, Walker brings a creative, data-driven approach to retention that you won't find in any textbook. He's an artist in both his personal life as a singer and in his professional world, looking at challenges from angles most people never consider. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Selling into a leaky bucket caps your MRR—retention is just as critical as sales for growth. NPS surveys alone won't cut it—low response rates and shallow data won't move the retention needle. Your team can't give accurate client health assessments—their incentives are misaligned to paint rosy pictures. Quarterly interviews by a third party (not the account manager) get you the honest feedback that drives real change. Relationships + Results = Retention—most businesses focus only on results and ignore relationships entirely. Use red/yellow/green client scoring: 75% green, 20% yellow, 5% red—zero red means you're lying to yourself. Track behavioral metrics (attendance, implementation, engagement) to predict churn before it happens—not after. Community is your AI-age defensibility—authentic human connections become irreplaceable as everything else gets commoditized. Growing your business is hard, but it doesn't have to be. In this podcast, we will be discussing top level strategies for both growing and expanding your business beyond seven figures. The show will feature a mix of pure content and expert interviews to present key concepts and fundamental topics in a variety of different formats. We believe that this format will enable our listeners to learn the most from the show, implement more in their businesses, and get real value out of the podcast. Enjoy the show. Please remember to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes. Your support and reviews are important and help us to grow and improve the show. Follow Charles Gaudet and Predictable Profits on Social Media: Facebook: facebook.com/PredictableProfits Instagram: instagram.com/predictableprofits Twitter: twitter.com/charlesgaudet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlesgaudet Visit Charles Gaudet's Wesbites: www.PredictableProfits.com www.predictableprofits.com/community https://start.predictableprofits.com/community
In this episode, Mark chats with Aurelio Volle from WPUmbrella about his journey in creating a WordPress management tool, maintaining customer focus, and the importance of community and transparency in business growth.
What you'll learn in this episode:Why consistency is the single most important factor in lead generationThe “commit or quit” mindset shift every salesperson needsHow to choose between marketing, prospecting, and networkingThe real costs of generating leads (time, money, or both)Why 18 months is the magic number for predictable successHow to scale and diversify your lead sources as your business growsWatch the Video Tutorial Here: https://youtu.be/c_7lP7npqrU
What you'll learn in this episode:Why consistency is the single most important factor in lead generationThe “commit or quit” mindset shift every salesperson needsHow to choose between marketing, prospecting, and networkingThe real costs of generating leads (time, money, or both)Why 18 months is the magic number for predictable successHow to scale and diversify your lead sources as your business grows
What you'll learn in this episode:Why consistency is the single most important factor in lead generationThe “commit or quit” mindset shift every salesperson needsHow to choose between marketing, prospecting, and networkingThe real costs of generating leads (time, money, or both)Why 18 months is the magic number for predictable successHow to scale and diversify your lead sources as your business grows
What you'll learn in this episode:Why prospecting is the lifeline of predictable incomeHow to use cold outreach effectively (without breaking compliance rules)The overlooked power of referrals and testimonialsHow local events and sponsorships expand visibilityWhy reviews and customer feedback are powerful sales toolsHow to create strategic alliances that consistently feed new clientsWhy committing to prospecting is the only way to avoid broke months
What You'll Learn:In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Andy Olrich, and guest Claire Quigley discuss the gap between technological capabilities and business outcomes. They emphasize an understanding of the purpose of transformation, aligning leadership and people, and ensuring clear communication and change management.About the Guest:Claire Quigley is the founder of Launchpad9, a boutique consultancy dedicated to inspiring and empowering meaningful innovation in established organizations. Claire brings a unique perspective shaped by her journey through high-tech startups, SMEs, and large corporations, where she has learned firsthand what truly works—and what doesn't—when it comes to forming and executing innovation and growth strategies that make a real difference.Links:Click Here For Claire Quigley's LinkedInClick Here For 'Tech Team Whisperer' Website
Complacency can creep into even the strongest B2B partnerships. This episode shares practical ways to keep long-term relationships fresh, valuable, and resilient—without changing your core product. From proactive reviews and co-created thought leadership to milestone moments and small human gestures, you'll learn how to spark momentum your clients can feel and measure.We also explore a “Disruptor Day” exercise to out-innovate yourself, reduce friction, and design micro-surprises that remind clients they're seen and valued. Through the lenses of goals, fears, and energy, you'll see how to turn satisfaction into advocacy.Press play to protect key accounts and strengthen partnerships—and don't forget to subscribe, share with your team, and leave a review with one change you'll try this quarter.Resources Mentioned:Experience Investigators Website -- https://experienceinvestigators.comWant to ask a question? Visit askjeannie.vip to leave Jeannie a voicemail! (And don't forget to follow Jeannie on LinkedIn! www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniewalters/)
David Kestner is the Vice President of Marketing and E-commerce of Diamondback Toolbelts, a leading manufacturer of premium modular tool belts, vests, and work gear for tradespeople. Known for his customer-centric approach to scaling brand growth, David has held senior roles in digital marketing and e-commerce, including at ALPEN Storage and SpotTrot. At Diamondback, he leads strategies to grow online sales and drive brand visibility. He holds a master's degree from the University of Kentucky in sports administration.In this episode…Building a premium brand for hardworking tradespeople takes more than quality materials. It demands constant innovation, close attention to customer feedback, and smart marketing to reach the right audience. How does a niche tool belt company turn these principles into rapid growth and industry recognition?According to David Kestner, a marketing and e-commerce leader, success comes from combining customer-driven product development with disciplined digital strategy. He highlights how Diamondback relies on input from real tradespeople to design ergonomic and modular belts and vests that outperform traditional leather gear. By focusing on authentic user-generated content and community engagement, the company built trust without relying on paid influencers. Careful tracking of metrics, such as the marketing efficiency ratio, allowed the team to scale ad spend intelligently, ensuring steady growth while maintaining profitability. Diamondback's commitment to continuous product launches and responding to feedback keeps customers engaged and returning.In this episode of Truth About Social Ads, host Jason Smith sits down with David Kestner, Vice President of Marketing and E-commerce of Diamondback Toolbelts, to talk about building a premium tradesmen brand through innovation and customer feedback. They discuss how user-generated content fuels marketing success, why focusing on marketing efficiency over return on ad spend drives growth, and the importance of constant product innovation.
Suivez le guide pas à pas pour construire un programme de Win/Loss Analysis qui vous permet de rentrer dans la tête de vos prospects et clients.On parle d'un programme qui aligne les équipes et influence les décisions business pour générer + de CA, + de satisfaction et - de churn. Avec Jade Vandelook, Head of CSM - Program Manager chez Diffly, on revient sur les étapes concrètes pour construire un programme utile, exploitable et durable.
Are you a small startup trying to compete with the big dogs? Well then this episode is for you.Tyler and Sterling sit down with Daniel Simon, co-founder of Bread (sold for $500M) who is now working on his next big startup: Coast, a fuel card and payment platform for companies that manage large fleets of vehicles.Daniel breaks down his learnings from his time at Bread, what he's doing differently now at Coast, and the important lessons he's learned from building successful companies in niches that are already dominated by large incumbents.Subscribe to never miss an episode!Chapters:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:09) Disrupting Fleet-Centric Financial Services(00:05:20) Different vs. Better when competing with Incumbents(00:10:14) Customer Feedback for Product Innovation(00:16:34) Finding Partners for Capital Acquisition(00:21:07) How to Fundraise Effectively(00:24:03) Attracting Investors(00:26:38) Iterative Product Development through Sales Feedback--Check out Coast: coastpay.comThis episode was brought to you by Pelion, a VC firm based in Utah. Learn more about them here: pelionvp.com
Comprenez (vraiment) vos clients grâce au programme Win-Loss. Fini les excuses "c'est trop cher", "C'est pas le bon moment". Jade Vandelook, Head of CSM - partage les clés pour récolter des insights fiables et enfin savoir ce que vos clients ne vous disent pas de prime abord.
Exploring UXR at ServiceNow: Enhancing AI Control and ServiceNow University In this episode, we delve into the realm of User Experience Research (UXR) at ServiceNow with guests Jesse Livingston, Eric Liu, and Tori Morrison. Eric Liu discusses the advancements and challenges in AI governance and the development of AI Control Tower to help companies manage their AI assets responsibly. Tori Morrison introduces ServiceNow University and its focused approach on enabling users to develop specific skills through personalized learning pathways and innovative tools like conversational AI chat. The episode highlights ServiceNow's commitment to integrating customer feedback into product development and providing robust learning resources to enhance user experiences. For more information, please read Anand Tharanathan's Article: https://www.servicenow.com/community/in-other-news/how-customer-insights-shaped-servicenow-university-and-ai/ba-p/3317295 And to check out the Product Lab: https://servicenowproductlab.com/ On this episode - Eric Liu: Sr. Staff UX Researcher, AI/MLTori Morrison: Senior UX ResearcherJesse Livingston: Research Communication ManagerBobby Brill: Host 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 00:27 Understanding User Experience Research (UXR) 02:32 Introducing Eric Leo and AI Control Tower 06:44 Challenges and Solutions in AI Governance 12:23 ServiceNow University: Empowering Users 17:40 Personalization and Gamification in Learning 22:42 Conclusion and Further Resources ServiceNow Training and Certification: http://www.servicenow.com/services/training-and-certification.html ServiceNow Community: https://community.servicenow.com/community For general information about ServiceNow, visit: http://www.servicenow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Exploring UXR at ServiceNow: Enhancing AI Control and ServiceNow University In this episode, we delve into the realm of User Experience Research (UXR) at ServiceNow with guests Jesse Livingston, Eric Liu, and Tori Morrison. Eric Liu discusses the advancements and challenges in AI governance and the development of AI Control Tower to help companies manage their AI assets responsibly. Tori Morrison introduces ServiceNow University and its focused approach on enabling users to develop specific skills through personalized learning pathways and innovative tools like conversational AI chat. The episode highlights ServiceNow's commitment to integrating customer feedback into product development and providing robust learning resources to enhance user experiences. For more information, please read Anand Tharanathan's Article: https://www.servicenow.com/community/in-other-news/how-customer-insights-shaped-servicenow-university-and-ai/ba-p/3317295 And to check out the Product Lab: https://servicenowproductlab.com/ On this episode - Eric Liu: Sr. Staff UX Researcher, AI/MLTori Morrison: Senior UX ResearcherJesse Livingston: Research Communication ManagerBobby Brill: Host 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 00:27 Understanding User Experience Research (UXR) 02:32 Introducing Eric Leo and AI Control Tower 06:44 Challenges and Solutions in AI Governance 12:23 ServiceNow University: Empowering Users 17:40 Personalization and Gamification in Learning 22:42 Conclusion and Further Resources ServiceNow Training and Certification: http://www.servicenow.com/services/training-and-certification.html ServiceNow Community: https://community.servicenow.com/community For general information about ServiceNow, visit: http://www.servicenow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the critical role of customer feedback in software development, particularly for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They explore how to effectively gather and implement feedback, the importance of user experience, and the challenges of adapting to user needs. The discussion emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and collaboration with customers to create intuitive and effective software solutions.
Got a negative review? Don't panic! In this video, Responding to Negative Reviews – A Step-by-Step Guide for Small Business Owners, I'll walk you through exactly how to handle criticism online without damaging your reputation. You'll learn: ✅ Why responding to reviews matters for your business ✅ The do's and don'ts of replying to unhappy customers ✅ A proven step-by-step process to turn negative feedback into a positive experience ✅ Tips for protecting your brand and building customer trust Whether you run a small local business or an online shop, the way you respond to reviews can make or break your reputation. Done right, you can even transform unhappy customers into loyal fans.
Send us a textReady to inject some punk spirit into your customer experience? In this episode of the Customer Success Playbook, Adrian Swinscoe joins Roman Trebon to explore the delicate art of reducing friction without losing that vital human touch. From the bustling cultural tapestry of Edinburgh's Fringe Festival to personal tales of rock climbing and postponed trips to Japan, Adrian sets the stage with personality before diving into why not all friction is bad. He reveals why some “effortful” moments between a brand and its customers actually build loyalty, and how removing them in the name of efficiency can backfire spectacularly. If you're looking to refine your customer journey without sterilizing it, this episode serves up the perfect balance of practical wisdom and a punk attitude.In a world obsessed with streamlining every process, this episode is a refreshing reminder that operational efficiency is not always the hero of customer success. Adrian Swinscoe brings a nuanced perspective: friction isn't the bogeyman it's often made out to be. By distinguishing between “good friction” — those meaningful touchpoints that enrich customer relationships — and “bad friction” that truly hinders progress, organizations can avoid the pitfall of a too-easy, yet emotionally barren, experience. His example of a company that saw sign-ups soar but retention dive thanks to over-simplification is a cautionary tale for businesses tempted to sanitize their customer journey too aggressively.The actionable takeaway? Approach your customer journey analysis with deliberate care and use data combined with direct customer feedback to fine-tune that balance. This means digging deep into customer stories and operational metrics to identify where technology should speed things up and where human moments need to be preserved or even amplified. Adrian's advice serves as a critical chapter in your customer success playbook, fueling smarter decisions that respect both business goals and the emotional dynamics that bind customers to your brand.Bonus: His reflections on rock climbing as a meditative, focus-driven hobby provide a clever metaphor for the customer success journey itself—it's about balance, precision, and the right amount of challenge.Now you can interact with us directly by leaving a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/CustomerSuccessPlaybookPlease Like, Comment, Share and Subscribe. You can also find the CS Playbook Podcast:YouTube - @CustomerSuccessPlaybookPodcastTwitter - @CS_PlaybookYou can find Kevin at:Metzgerbusiness.com - Kevin's person web siteKevin Metzger on Linked In.You can find Roman at:Roman Trebon on Linked In.
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Caitlin Bricker interviews Steph Nightingale, founder of Stimmie, a premium, reusable toothpick designed to address the gaps traditional floss and toothbrushes leave behind. Drawing on over 13 years of experience in dental care, Steph shares how personal recovery, patient insights, and a commitment to quality led to the creation of Stimmie.The conversation explores product innovation, early-stage funding, manufacturing partnerships, and the importance of retailer and consumer feedback in building a sustainable brand. Steph also discusses merchandising strategies, scaling challenges, and her vision for high-profile collaborations that could further elevate the brand.This episode offers valuable lessons in customer-centric product development and the realities of bringing a health-focused consumer product to market.Listen now to learn how Steph transformed a simple dental tool into a growing brand with national recognition — and why truly listening to customers is key to lasting success.Listen in as they share about:Customer Feedback & DevelopmentFunding & Business GrowthManufacturing & OperationsRetail Strategy & MerchandisingSustainability & Industry PerspectiveCommunity & NetworkingEpisode Links:Website: https://www.shopstimmie.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-nightingale-899b6118/?originalSubdomain=ca Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics
The delicate balance between business efficiency and customer needs sits at the heart of successful process improvement. When organizations focus solely on internal metrics like cost savings and scalability without considering the customer perspective, they risk creating short-term wins that ultimately damage loyalty and undermine long-term success.This deep dive into customer-centric process improvement reveals how to maintain customer visibility even when making internal operational changes. We explore the foundation of this approach—establishing a clear mindset about why customers matter in your business processes, rather than simply telling teams to "put the customer first" without proper guidance. By developing a customer experience mission statement and success blueprint, organizations create guardrails that help balance internal needs with customer expectations.Making customers tangibly present in process discussions transforms decision-making. Whether through starting meetings with relevant customer stories, using journey mapping to visualize the customer perspective, or connecting process metrics directly to customer outcomes—these practical techniques ensure the customer voice isn't lost. The most powerful improvements create a triple win: benefits for customers through better experiences, advantages for the organization through operational efficiency, and improvements for employees through more effective workflows. This holistic approach recognizes that when customers feel lost or neglected due to hyper-efficiency, the consequences ripple through the business in reduced trust, lower retention, and diminished revenue.Ready to become the bridge between what your business needs and what your customers expect? Subscribe now to continue exploring how to balance business priorities with customer-centricity, and discover how to deliver remarkable experiences while meeting operational goals.Resources Mentioned:CX Mission Statement Workbook -- https://bit.ly/cx-mission-workbookCX Success Statement Workbook -- https://bit.ly/cx-success-workbookExperience Investigators Website -- https://experienceinvestigators.comWant to ask a question? Visit askjeannie.vip to leave Jeannie a voicemail! (And don't forget to follow Jeannie on LinkedIn! www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniewalters/)
In this episode of the Boost Your Biology podcast, Lucas Aoun interviews Andy Mant, CEO and founder of Bon Charge, discussing his journey from health struggles to creating a successful wellness brand. They explore the science behind blue light blocking glasses, the evolution of the product line, and the impact of synthetic light on health. The conversation also delves into optimizing sleep and circadian rhythms, as well as future research plans for customer feedback and product efficacy. In this conversation, Andy Mant discusses the advancements and challenges in the field of red light therapy, including the importance of regulatory approvals and the prevalence of counterfeit products. He shares insights on the evolution of red light therapy devices, the integration of holistic health practices, and the emerging research on testosterone optimization. The discussion also covers the potential of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) as a complementary therapy and the future of biohacking and personalized medicine. Finally, Andy reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the significance of hiring the right talent to foster business growthRelevant links:Andy Mant's website: https://au.boncharge.com/Check Out My Website For Coaching, Recommended Products and Much More:https://www.boostyourbiology.com/Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast episode is for entertainment purposes and is NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. If you have any questions about your health, contact a medical professional. This content is strictly the opinions of Lucas Aoun and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. All viewers of this content are advised to consult with their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither Lucas Aoun nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this content. All consumers of this content especially taking prescription or over-the-counter medications should consult their physician before beginning any nutritional, supplement or lifestyle program.Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: From Health Struggles to Entrepreneurship03:02 The Science of Light: Understanding Blue Light and Its Effects05:48 Creating Effective Blue Light Blockers: The Evolution of Bon Charge08:41 Quality Matters: The Importance of Effective Blue Light Blocking11:35 The Role of Lenses: Dark vs. Clear in Blue Light Blocking14:18 Customer Feedback and Product Evolution: Responding to Demand17:10 Circadian Rhythms: The Importance of Natural Light Exposure22:24 Mimicking Ancestral Light Exposure23:28 The Detrimental Effects of Synthetic Light26:28 Optimizing Eating Patterns for Better Metabolism28:55 Clinical Trials and Product Efficacy31:13 Navigating the Red Light Therapy Market33:24 Holistic Approaches to Skin Health33:59 Red Light Therapy and Testosterone Optimization36:12 Understanding PEMF Therapy37:46 The Future of Biohacking38:57 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
She walked away from two decades of luxury bag design to build carbon-negative, vegan bags that actually make a difference. Meet Alona Komsky, co-founder of AKKONIQ, the minimalist bag brand that's reshaping sustainable fashion with innovation, function, and style.In this episode of the Conscious Design Podcast, host Ian Peterman explores how Alona turned her frustration with fast fashion and greenwashing into a mission: designing eco-friendly bags made from 3D-woven recycled materials, biodegradable fibers, and honest minimalist design.If you're interested in ethical fashion, sustainable materials, slow fashion, or how to build a conscious product brand—this episode is for you.⏩ Jump to your favorite parts: 00:52 - Meet Alona Komsky: Co-Founder of Akkoniq01:03 - The Journey to Sustainable Design02:06 - Challenges in the Industry05:00 - Creating Sustainable Bags14:30 - Innovative Materials and Techniques17:10 - Customer Feedback and Education26:38 - The Future of Sustainable Design27:50 - Conclusion and Contact InformationAbout Alona Komsky & AKKONIQAKKONIQ is a new name in sustainable fashion, but co-founder Alona Komsky brings over 20 years of award-winning design experience across tech, travel, and fashion. Her products have won Red Dot, IDSA, and remain global bestsellers.AKKONIQ blends minimalist aesthetics, functional innovation, and planet-first materials. Born from Alona's mission to align design with values, the brand delivers truly sustainable bags—without compromise or greenwashing.
Today, we're sharing our summer stories, discussing how we juggle parenting and work, and revealing our approach to wellness while living in beautiful Mexico City. Plus, we get real about using GLP-1 medications and peptides for weight loss and overall health. Stay tuned for a heartfelt apology, candid conversations about cultural differences, and tips on making the most of life abroad. Join us for laughter, insights, and a peek into our daily adventures!
Scaling a SaaS startup isn't just about product-market fit or revenue numbers, it's about people, culture, and leadership. In this episode of the Grow Your B2B SaaS podcast, host Joran Hofman sits down with Hugo Pereira, the Co-founder of Ritmoo and author of Teams in Hell: How to End Bad Management, to discuss ways of building SaaS partnerships that actually drive revenue.If you've ever wondered why some startups skyrocket to $100 million ARR while others stall at $1 million, the difference often lies in what happens behind the scenes. Hugo has helped scale multiple companies and has seen it all the pitfalls, the patterns, and the principles that actually work. In this episode, brought to you by SaaStock, Hugo shares hard-earned insights for founders who want to scale with clarity, not chaos.As a valued listener of the Grow Your B2B SaaS podcast, we've got something special for you! As a valued participant, you have the exclusive opportunity to get a 30% discount on tickets to SaaStock Europe this October - the leading conference for AI & SaaS founders, investors, and leaders.Key Timecodes(0:00) - Introduction: Building Structure in Startups and the Importance of Customer Feedback(1:00) - Episode Overview: What SaaS Companies Fail to Do in Culture and Team Dynamics(1:10) - Guest Introduction: Hugo Pereira, Co-founder of Rytmo and Author of "Teams in Hell"(1:35) - Scaling Experience: Helping Companies Grow from $1 Million to $100 Million in Revenue(2:05) - Story of Startup Failure: Culture and Team Challenges in a B2B SaaS Company(3:14) - Founding Team Impact: Old-School Mindsets and Lack of Customer Validation(4:23) - Realities of Startup Culture: Authority-Driven Environments and Their Effects(5:40) - Importance of Early Culture: Building Trust vs. Toxicity from Day Zero(6:39) - Defining Culture: Values, Behaviors, Rituals, and Systems in an Organization(8:03) - Common Failures in Scaling: Process Breakdowns, Founder Control, Lack of Alignment(9:24) - Complexity of Scaling: Need for Structure and Clear Ownership in Growing Teams(11:27) - Misconceptions of Growth: Confusing Traction with Understanding and Clarity(12:06) - The Evolution of Startups: From Hustle to Frameworks and Repeatable Systems(13:38) - Importance of Alignment: The Why Now Story and Trust Building in Teams(14:56) - Customer Ties: The Role of Deep Customer Relationships in Scaling Success(17:57) - Feedback and Misalignment: Warning Signs of Cultural and Team Misalignment(19:20) - Remote Work Challenges: Maintaining Alignment and Feedback in Hybrid Setups(21:23) - Hero Culture Warning: Overworking and Glorifying Output without Results(22:00) - Scaling Trust and Accountability: Shared Expectations and Frequent Feedback(25:03) - Feedback Loops: Formal and Informal Check-Ins to Foster Open Communication(28:59) - Leadership Pitfalls: Behaviors That Can Kill Morale and Momentum(32:17) - Best Advice for SaaS Founders: Never Lose Sight of Your Initial Why(33:38) - Future of SaaS: Preparing for Slower Deal Cycles and Community Engagement(35:27) - Advice for Early-Stage SaaS: Prioritize Conversations Over Conversions(36:55) - Scaling to 10 Million ARR: Focus on Repeatable Motions and Community Building(41:15) - Where to Find Hugo's Book: "Teams in Hell" Available on Amazon
Customer experience pros often face a common challenge: robust metrics like NPS or CSAT fall flat outside the CX team. Why? Because other departments don't see how those numbers connect to their goals.This episode explores how to bridge that gap by translating CX data into the language of IT, Operations, and Finance. It's not about dumbing down the data. It's about building context. When CX metrics highlight inefficiencies or opportunities for cross-functional wins, they become powerful tools for collaboration.You'll hear how to align CX insights with departmental priorities so the data speaks to what each team cares about most. We also explore using behavioral and operational data, like service calls, churn rates, or purchase frequency, to demonstrate real business impact. Plus, we introduce the Customer Experience Success Blueprint, a framework designed to help CX initiatives integrate seamlessly with broader organizational goals.Want your CX initiatives to gain real traction? Start by making the metrics matter to everyone.Resources Mentioned:CX Mission Statement Workbook -- https://bit.ly/cx-mission-workbookCX Success Statement Workbook -- https://bit.ly/cx-success-workbookExperience Investigators Website -- https://experienceinvestigators.comWant to ask a question? Visit askjeannie.vip to leave Jeannie a voicemail! (And don't forget to follow Jeannie on LinkedIn! www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniewalters/)
She's Just Getting Started - Building a business you truly love!
What makes customers choose your business over countless alternatives? After a recent trip with my 16-year-old daughter, I had a powerful reminder for you and your business so it will ACTUALLY be successful.
In this episode of Confessions of a B2B Entrepreneur, Tom Hunt interviews Marc Seitz, the Co-Founder of Papermark. Discover how Papermark disrupted the virtual data room market, scaling from $20K to £60K MRR through a unique combination of open-source innovation, strategic SEO targeting established competitors, and a powerful product-led viral growth model. Marc shares invaluable insights into rapid customer support and feature development, showcasing how bootstrapping can lead to significant success and accelerate product-market fit. This is essential listening for B2B founders seeking sustainable growth strategies without external funding.
Fill out this short listener survey to help us improve the show: https://forms.gle/bbcRiPTRwKoG2tJx8In this episode, Simon Eskildsen, co-founder and CEO of TurboPuffer, lays out a compelling vision for how AI-native infrastructure needs to evolve in an era where every application wants to connect massive amounts of context to large language models. He breaks down why traditional databases and even large context windows fall short—especially at scale—and why object-storage-native search is the inevitable next step. Drawing on his experience from Shopify and Readwise, Simon introduces the SCRAP framework to explain the limits of context stuffing and makes a clear case for why cost, recall, performance, and access control drive the need for smarter retrieval systems. From practical lessons in building highly reliable infra to hard technical problems in vector indexing, this conversation distills the future of AI infra into first principles—with clarity and depth. [0:00] Intro[0:49] The Evolution of AI Context Windows[2:32] Challenges in AI Data Integration[3:56] SCRAP: Scale, Cost, Recall, ACLs, and Performance[9:21] The Rise of Object-Oriented Storage[16:47] Turbo Puffer Use Cases[22:32] Challenges in Vector Search[27:02] Challenges in Query Planning and Data Filtering[27:53] Focusing on Core Problems and Simplicity[28:28] Customer Feedback and Future Directions[29:11] Reliability and Simplicity in Design[30:39] Evaluating Embedding Models and Search Performance[32:17] The Role of Vectors in Search Engines[34:16] Balancing Focus and Expansion[35:57] AI Infrastructure and Market Trends[38:36] The Future of Memory in AI[43:01] Table Stakes for AI in SaaS Applications[45:55] Multimodal Data and Market Observations[46:57] Quickfire With your co-hosts: @jacobeffron - Partner at Redpoint, Former PM Flatiron Health @patrickachase - Partner at Redpoint, Former ML Engineer LinkedIn @ericabrescia - Former COO Github, Founder Bitnami (acq'd by VMWare) @jordan_segall - Partner at Redpoint
What does it really mean to be customer-centric? Too many companies claim the title without living it. In this episode, we explore how to tell the difference between lip service and genuine customer focus. You'll learn the key signs of authentic customer centricity—like feedback that drives real change, empowered employees who can fix problems, and consistency across every touchpoint.Jeannie explains why true customer focus requires more than good intentions. It's about mindset, strategy, and accountability—measured by outcomes, not slogans.Ask yourself this powerful question: If you noticed something broken in your customer experience today, would you feel empowered to fix it? Your answer reveals volumes about your organization's commitment to being truly customer-centric.Resources Mentioned:CX Mission Statement Workbook -- https://bit.ly/cx-mission-workbookCX Success Statement Workbook -- https://bit.ly/cx-success-workbookLearn more about CXI Membership™ and apply -- http://CXIMembership.comExperience Investigators Website -- https://experienceinvestigators.comWant to ask a question? Visit askjeannie.vip to leave Jeannie a voicemail! (And don't forget to follow Jeannie on LinkedIn! www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniewalters/)
The Net Promoter System Podcast – Customer Experience Insights from Loyalty Leaders
Episode 251: In 2018, Dell set out to do something big: turn customer feedback into a system that could not only provide insights, but help set priorities and run the business. They had the data. They had the intent. But they made a compromise that many organizations settle on: Rather than enforce one unified approach to customer feedback, they allowed each team to build its own. While this helped with initial adoption and change management, it also led to fragmentation—multiple tools, different methods, no shared truth. And it got worse over time. Real progress ultimately would require centralizing what had become scattered. When Dell's Marc Stein appeared on this podcast in 2018 (episode 129), the company had just completed its EMC merger and launched a chief customer office. The ambition: one integrated Net Promoter System to tie sentiment to economics and put the customer at the center of every decision. But good intentions ran into a harsh reality: Every function was listening to customers, but no one was hearing the same thing. In this episode, Mike Valanzola, Dell's Senior Director of Voice of Customer and NPS Operations, picks up the story. He explains how misaligned tools, siloed ownership, and governance gaps made customer feedback hard to act on. His team didn't want to tear down what existed. Instead, they brought it together. Through consolidation, centralization, shared standards, and stronger governance, they transformed scattered signals into an enterprise-wide system of action. The turning point came with the Customer Experience Roadmap and Accreditation. The CXRA gave Dell a framework to drive internal accountability and rebuild trust in the system. As Mike describes, cross-functional teams now meet weekly to act on shared signals. Tomorrow's goal? Make every employee a promoter and make every signal actionable. Guest: Mike Valanzola, Senior Director, Voice of Customer and NPS Operations, Dell Technologies Host: Rob Markey, Partner, Bain & Company Give us feedback: Customer Confidential Podcast Feedback Send us a note: Contact Rob Time-Stamped Topics 00:01 - Marc Stein's 2018 ambition: a unified CX system 03:50 - Why integration faltered: fragmentation, politics, data overload 06:20 - Mike's mission: centralize tools, enforce governance 10:00 - Transforming custom systems to create shared accountability 13:30 - Early delivery surprises and sentiment gaps 17:10 - Predictive models and operational fixes 21:00 - How Dell built trust in the new NPS engine 27:45 - Weekly action meetings: turning listening into doing 35:30 - Why CXRA certification mattered, internally and externally 40:00 - Reflections on past company decisions Notable Quotes “ We have a robust partner community that allows us to expand our scale in terms of the customers that we can touch. Each and every one of those folks has some things that are important for us to hear.” [8:00] ”We do—and did—as a company, listen regularly, but we didn't always hear. The reason for that came down to every function across the company, ultimately doing their own listening programs, using their own application, governing how they listened, controlling what they got back, and not sharing it.” [18:00] ”We had been really in a run-the-business function, really focused on NPS management, really focused on owning that measurement for the company. And now, I was proposing a large-scale, end-to-end corporate transformation that was going to require my own team to think about how we operate, and effectively operate differently.” [28:00] Additional Resources Hear our 2018 podcast with Marc Stein on Dell's original CX ambition, Bringing Net Promoter to Scale Learn more about Bain's MyCX Roadmap & Accreditation
Watch the video interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TMVqWfaddG8Shopify store owners: what if one simple question could improve your ad spend, creative, and segmentation?In this episode of The Unofficial Shopify Podcast, Matt Bahr, founder of Fairing, unpacks what 20 million post-purchase surveys taught him about attribution—and why most brands still get it wrong. Learn how to track what really works, identify new channels like AppLovin and CTV, and use surveys to improve more than just marketing.In this episode, you'll learn:Why last-click attribution is broken—and what to use insteadThe one survey question every brand should askHow Fairing's data reveals the rise of AppLovin and CTVWhat zero-party data can do for your segmentation and CROHow top brands like Bombas and Thrive use surveys to drive actionSponsors:ZipifyCleverificViralsweepResources mentioned:FairingShopify App ListingLLM BenchmarksMatt Bahr on LinkedInWork with Kurt:ApplyClient ResultsJoin the Newsletter
When you think of huge advances in digital dentistry, a lot of companies and names come up. But there are two that are really making a huge impact on how we get things done and they continue to do it with the passion of the lab industry supporting it. First up is Björn Zäuner. Björn grew up in a dental family and wanted nothing to do with teeth. We've all heard this story, right? It wasn't long before Björn had a milling center and even an ortho lab. But he noticed that miss mounted cases were a problem and a main cause to most of his remakes. So he developed Bite-Finder to use AI to find the true bite and not the one "captured" with a blue bite or iOS scanner. He talks all about what it is, how it works, how to integrate it, and how you can try it for FREE for 2 weeks. Then we meet the CEO and co-creator of exocad, Tillmann Steinbrecher. We have talked to literally hundreds of people on this podcast that all sing praises for the "purple program" and this time we get to hear the origin story. Tillmann talks about how is started as a research project where he and his partner saw potential for so much more. From walking around IDS 15 years ago with a laptop with a early version to being one of the leaders in dental design, Tillmann in his team has really changed the way labs stay ahead of the every changing workflow. He talks about the early versions, where the name and purple come from, how it's important to stay an open platform, and the importance of user feedback to keep getting better. Take it from Jennifer Ferguson from Ivoclar. If you have a PM7 (https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/digital-equipment/programill-pm7) or are thinking about getting a PM7 (Take it from Barb, you should), Ivoclar had launched the "Ivoclar Block Module" that can speed up milling emax (https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/digital-processes/ips-e.max-cad) by 45%!! The best part is that you can try it for FREE for 90 days. All you have to do is send them a message on Instagram at Ivoclar.na (https://www.instagram.com/ivoclar.na/) or send a email to jennifer.ferguson@ivoclar.com. Now go mill emax faster! Special Guests: Björn Zäuner and Tillmann Steinbrecher.
Handling Bad Reviews, Firing Clients, and Knowing Your Real Profit In this episode, Chris and Kevin break down real questions from our Facebook group, and this one hits home: How do you handle negative reviews without hurting your business? They share: ✅ How to respond to bad reviews with confidence and professionalism ✅ What private equity really looks at when you go to sell your business ✅ Why showing $0 profit after $100k/month might raise red flags ✅ How to identify (and fire) problem clients the right way ✅ Tips for students looking to break into blue collar industries ✅ How to ask better questions that get real answers. This is real talk from real operators who've been through it, from reviews to revenue, we're giving you the playbook. Check out https://bluecollarmillionaire.net Learn more about Board Room Elite and how to connect with our community.
Send us a textHow do you lead 950 engineers and still make time for mechanical watches, family, and learning? In this thoughtful and energizing episode from IT Nation Secure 2025, Joey Pinz interviews David Raissipour, Chief Technology & Product Officer at ConnectWise.
Dave delves into health influencer Brian Johnson's Blueprint brand to see how well this entrepreneur turned influencer business is performing on Amazon. We take a look at their revenue numbers, their quality control issues and overall brand strategy to see if influencer-led brands are actually killing it on Amazon or not. Get mystery shopped for your brand and 2 competitors of your choice FOR FREE! Stord will provide a detailed report that outlines the specific areas you are out performing your competitors and where your competitors are outperforming you. Learn how your consumers truly experience your brand today! The Big Takeaway Brian Johnson's brand generated an annual revenue of approximately $4.5 million. Quality control issues have affected customer satisfaction according to recent reviews. Their average review rating for their top product is declining due to quality control issues. Pricing on Amazon is significantly lower than on the brand's website. Brian Johnson hasn't really been pushing the brands' presence in his socials. Blueprint's performance is not as impressive as their competitors. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Brian Johnson and Blueprint 03:03 - Blueprint's Performance on Amazon 05:45 - Revenue Analysis and Keyword Analysis 08:58 - Quality Control Issues and Customer Feedback 11:48 - Brand Strategy and Pricing Dynamics 15:06 - Conclusion: The Future of Blueprint As always, if you have any questions or anything that you need help with, leave a comment down below if you're interested. Don't forget to leave us a review on iTunes if you enjoy our content. Thanks for listening! Until next time, happy selling!
Ever notice how most spray cleaners and detergents seem to be marketed straight out of the 1950s... and almost always to moms? Entrepreneur Sean Busch is on a mission to flip the script. Sean is a dad of two kids who LOVE to make messes, and he's the founder of Dad Mode, a new line of high-performance cleaning products designed specifically for dads. Sean joins us to talk about why it's important that dads meaningfully contribute to housekeeping, what “choreplay” means (and how it might just be the secret to more balance), and the potential risks and rewards of selling gendered products. Several of Adam's favorite recent episodes:Navigating Miscarriage and Grief as a Dad (Kelly Jean-Philippe)What Will Our Kids Be Saying About Us? (Pete Holmes)Dismantling Birth Care Stereotypes (Teddy the Doula)LINKSDad Mode (official)Dad Mode (Amazon)Dad Mode (Facebook)Dad Mode (Instagram)Dad Mode (TikTok)Dad Mode (YouTube)Caspar BabypantsSpencer AlbeeModern Dadhood (website)AdamFlaherty.tvStuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)MD (Instagram)MD (Facebook)MD (YouTube)MD (TikTok) #moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast
Sara Olsher started Mighty + Bright as a handmade calendar to help her toddler cope with divorce. A decade (and one breast cancer diagnosis) later, it's a full-time Shopify business helping kids, adults, and neurodivergent folks navigate tough life stuff with visual structure. In this episode, Sara shares how she bootstrapped the brand, embraced customer feedback, and scaled with purpose—not just ad spend.You'll learn:How personal chaos sparked a viral product lineWhy bootstrapping kept her business healthy and profitableThe power of customer-led product developmentHow one TikTok collab outsold her entire kids' lineSponsorsZipify – Build high-converting sales funnelsCleverific – Smart order editing for ShopifyAddress Validator – Reduce delivery address errors & costsLinks and Resources:Sara OlsherMighty + BrightApps, Tools, & ServicesStoreHero – Profit-focused ad tracking and analyticsOctane AI – Shop quizzes for ShopifySensible Forecasting – Inventory planningBundles.app – Inventory syncing for Shopify bundlesiPaKey – Packing and fulfillment scanner toolWork with Kurt:→ Grow your Shopify store→ See client success stories→ Join Kurt's newsletter
Jason Zigelbaum, founder of Zigpoll, joins Will Laurenson to discuss how on-site surveys have become a core growth lever for e-commerce and SaaS brands. Jason shares the journey of Zigpoll, how it's used for attribution, segmentation, and CRO, and why post-purchase surveys are more than just a feedback form. They explore real-world use cases, including file uploads, homepage redirects, and advanced integrations with Shopify and Klaviyo. Jason also reflects on the future of AI in automating personalised experiences. This episode is packed with practical strategies for leveraging first-party data and making every survey response count.
In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, I, Stewart Alsop, speak with Andrew Einhorn, CEO and founder of Level Fields, a platform using AI to help people navigate financial markets through the lens of repeatable, data-driven events. We explore how structured patterns in market news—like CEO departures or earnings surprises—can inform trading strategies, how Level Fields filters noise from financial data, and the emotional nuance of user experience design in fintech. Andrew also shares insights on knowledge graphs, machine learning in finance, and the evolving role of narrative in markets. Stock tips from Level Fields are available on their YouTube channel at Level Fields AI and their website levelfields.ai.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversationTimestamps00:00 – Andrew introduces Level Fields and explains how it identifies event-driven stock movements using AI.05:00 – Discussion of LLMs vs. custom models, and how Level Fields prioritized financial specificity over general AI.10:00 – Stewart asks about ontologies and knowledge graphs; Andrew describes early experiences building rule-based systems.15:00 – They explore the founder's role in translating problems, UX challenges, and how user expectations shape product design.20:00 – Insight into feedback collection, including a unique refund policy aimed at improving user understanding.25:00 – Andrew breaks down the complexities of user segmentation, churn, and adapting the product for different investor types.30:00 – A look into event types in the market, especially crypto-related announcements and their impact on equities.35:00 – Philosophical turn on narrative vs. fundamentals in finance; how news and groupthink drive large-scale moves.40:00 – Reflection on crypto parallels to dot-com era, and the long-term potential of blockchain infrastructure.45:00 – Deep dive into machine persuasion, LLM training risks, and the influence of opinionated data in financial AI.50:00 – Final thoughts on momentum algos, market manipulation, and the need for transparent, structured data.Key InsightsEvent-Based Investing as Market Forecasting: Andrew Einhorn describes Level Fields as a system for interpreting the market's weather—detecting recurring events like CEO departures or earnings beats to predict price movements. This approach reframes volatility as something intelligible, giving investors a clearer sense of timing and direction.Building Custom AI for Finance: Rejecting generic large language models, Einhorn's team developed proprietary AI trained exclusively on financial documents. By narrowing the scope, they increased precision and reduced noise, enabling the platform to focus only on events that truly impact share price behavior.Teaching Through Signals, Not Just Showing: Stewart Alsop notes how Level Fields does more than surface opportunities—it educates. By linking cause and effect in financial movements, the platform helps users build intuition, transforming confusion into understanding through repeated exposure to clear, data-backed patterns.User Expectation vs. Product Vision: Initially, Level Fields emphasized an event-centric UX, but users sought more familiar tools like ticker searches and watchlists. This tension revealed that even innovative technologies must accommodate habitual user flows before inviting them into new ways of thinking.Friction as a Path to Clarity: To elicit meaningful feedback, Level Fields implemented a refund policy that required users to explain what didn't work. The result wasn't just better UX insights—it also surfaced emotional blockages around investing and design, sharpening the team's understanding of what users truly needed.Narrative as a Volatile Market Force: Einhorn points out that groupthink in finance stems from shared academic training, creating reflexive investment patterns tied to economic narratives. These surface-level cycles obscure the deeper, steadier signals that Level Fields seeks to highlight through its data model.AI's Risk of Amplifying Noise: Alsop and Einhorn explore the darker corners of machine persuasion and LLM-generated content. Since models are trained on public data, including biased and speculative sources, they risk reinforcing distortions. In response, Level Fields emphasizes curated, high-integrity inputs grounded in financial fact.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Jason Webb & Bradley Simpson, Operations Managers at Oakley Trucking. During the conversation, the group provides an insider's view of managing bulk freight across pneumatic and end dump divisions. They discuss the challenges of coordinating over 900 owner operators, emphasizing the critical importance of communication, customer service, and building strong relationships. With over 1,000 customers and opportunities for growth, the podcast highlights how Oakley's success stems from reliable drivers, strategic operations, and a commitment to solving problems quickly. The conversation also reveals the complex world of trucking, where technology, customer expectations, and operational efficiency intersect to create a thriving business. Don't miss this episode!Key topics in today's conversation include:Previewing Today's Episode (0:12)Role of Operations Managers and Dispatchers (4:04)Current State of Freight: End Dumps and Pneumatics (7:14)Challenges: Capacity and Missed Opportunities (10:00)Customer Base and Untapped Potential (12:54)Communication: The Key Challenge (15:06)Booking Loads: Then vs. Now (17:23)Building Customer Relationships (20:13)Oakley's Competitive Edge (22:12)Customer Feedback and Owner-Operator Excellence (25:09)Importance of Customer Service and Owner-Operator Standards (30:04)Behind-the-Scenes Operations and Trust (33:33)Looking to the Future (37:18)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (39:23)Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com.
A live SXSW panel on how employee complaints illuminate the path to organizational innovation.Wrong question: How can AI revolutionize productivity in my organization?Right question: What do my employees hate most about their jobs?For the Portland Trail Blazers, a winning game plan for AI implementation didn't begin with a tech-first approach — it began with a talk-first one. “The whole concept was to talk about pain points," explains David Long, VP of Digital Innovation, describing the "Lunch and Launch" sessions where employees could openly share frustrations about their daily work. “People really enjoy talking about what they hate about their jobs,” says Christa Stout, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, and as they did, they illuminated opportunities for optimization. “By getting this insight across the whole company, it is already opening our eyes [to how] we can potentially transform the business more broadly,” Stout says.In this special live episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, recorded at SXSW, host Matt Abrahams leads a panel with Long, Stout, and Stanford colleague Jeremy Utley, exploring how "catharsis catalyzes change.” For any team wanting to implement new technology or rethink workflows, these experts reveal how creating space for complaints can catalyze meaningful innovation throughout an organization.Episode Reference Links:Jeremy UtleyDavid LongChrista StoutEp.77 Quick Thinks: AI Has Entered The Chat – A "Conversation" with ChatGPTEp.134 How to Chat with Bots: The Secrets to Getting the Information You Need from AI Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (04:42) - The Business Behind Basketball (06:13) - Why AI and Why Now? (07:21) - Collaborating with the Team (08:39) - The Lunch & Launch Method (11:11) - Branding AI Initiatives (12:29) - David Detractor & Kelly Kindness (16:00) - Human Connection through AI (16:45) - Auditing for Brand Consistency (18:53) - AI in National Parks (21:36) - Making AI Personal (22:58) - Using AI to Learn AI (27:27) - Encouraging AI in the Workplace (30:21) - Change Management: Iteration Over Perfection (34:07) - Start with Curiosity and Empower Action (37:50) - Communication Ingredients (39:22) - Conclusion ********This episode is sponsored by LinkedIn. Dare to discover what's next. Explore your job potential at LinkedIn. Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.
She turned hustle into a $4 billion brand, Emma Grede breaks down how she built Kardashian fashion empires Emma Grede is the founding partner behind the globally successful brands SKIMS, Good American, and Safely, all launched with the Kardashian family. She is also Chairwoman of The Fifteen Percent Pledge, is a board member at Baby2Baby, and was named one of Forbes ‘Richest Self-Made Women in America'. She explains: Growing up in East London, raised by a single mother, and how early hardship forged her fierce independence. Taking on a maternal role from childhood, learning to lead through responsibility, empathy, and survival. Turning rejection, dyslexia, and a lack of qualifications into fuel for building billion-dollar fashion brands. Balancing ambition and motherhood, and the personal toll of leadership, hustle, and hard decisions. Building SKIMS and Good American without fashion training, and the mindset that made it all possible. 00:00 Intro 02:17 Becoming Emma Grede 03:58 Acting as the Mum and Raising My Siblings 06:49 Lacking a Father Figure Growing Up 08:25 Anger Management Tools I Learned 11:06 My Dream Was Always Fashion 12:20 Understanding Money Attachment Styles 14:32 Emma's Recipe to Achieve Anything 17:55 Customer Feedback 19:30 The Importance of Reliable Decision Partners & Mentality Shifts 21:38 Do People Need Mentors to Succeed? 24:06 The One Skill That Made Me an Entrepreneur 26:09 The Three Most Important Words for Career Advancement 27:25 Does Working in an Office Make Employees More Successful? 31:11 Traits of Future Successful People 33:32 Interview Red Flags & Work-Life Balance 39:32 Can You Be Successful and Have Work-Life Balance? 40:58 You Can't Be a Leader and a People Pleaser 43:51 Being Cancelled as a Leader and Public Figure 46:29 Racism and Sexism in the Business Industry 50:56 Dealing With Business Struggles and Crises 53:33 Top 3 Valuable Practices for Founders 55:58 Don't Get Stuck—Keep Fresh Eyes 57:15 Brands Copying Other Brands 01:00:42 Advice for People With Unsupportive Partners 01:02:10 Scheduling Date Night 01:05:45 Meeting Kris Jenner 01:12:05 Pitching to Khloé Kardashian 01:12:43 Turning an Idea Into a Business 01:14:23 Strategies Deployed in Business 01:16:24 Building a Brand Strategy in 2025 01:21:11 First Principles of Business 01:25:59 How to Become the Best Salesperson 01:33:01 Learning How to Fire People 01:37:17 Attracting Top Talent to Your Company 01:39:37 What a Founder Shouldn't Do in Business 01:41:33 Hiring Exceptional People 01:45:42 Prejudices in the Workplace 01:49:09 Why Prejudices Shouldn't Limit Anyone 01:50:39 How to Stop Giving a F*** 01:54:16 When Do Successful Women Have Children? 01:56:01 My IVF Journey and Miscarriages 02:00:30 The Taboo Around Surrogacy, Freezing Eggs & Pregnancy 02:04:51 Emma Grede's New Podcast ‘Aspire' Follow Emma: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/emmagrede/?hl=en Good American - https://www.goodamerican.com/ SKIMS - http://skims.com/ Safely - https://getsafely.com/ Aspire With Emma Grede Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-with-emma-grede/id1811878340 The 1% Diary is back - limited time only: https://thediary.com/products/one-percent-diary The Diary Of A CEO Conversation Cards (Second Edition): https://thediary.com/products/the-conversation-cards-2nd-edition Get email updates: https://bit.ly/diary-of-a-ceo-yt Think like a CEO - join the 100 CEOs newsletter: https://bit.ly/100-ceos-newsletter Follow Steven: https://g2ul0.app.link/gnGqL4IsKKb Sponsors: Vanta - https://vanta.com/steven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
