Podcasts about B2B

You launched the experiments. You spent the budget. And now leadership wants answers. And suddenly every QBR feels like a fire drill.This is Stage 2 of the revenue leader's transformation—the moment when activity is high, effort is real, but impact is frustratingly hard to prove. You're working harder than ever, yet you can't confidently tie what your team is doing to pipeline, revenue, or real ROI.This episode is part two of a five-part series exploring the journey B2B revenue leaders go through as they move from reactive execution to full revenue visibility and executive-level confidence. Each stage represents a breaking point, where leaders either confront the real problem or stay stuck explaining away the same issues quarter after quarter.In this episode, we unpack Stage 2: The QBR Fire Drill—the phase where credibility, confidence, and career momentum are quietly put at risk.You're likely in Stage 2 if you've ever said, “Board decks take days to build and still don't tell a clean story.”What We Cover in This Episode:Why QBRs become fire drills and what that reveals about your data foundationThe hidden cost of stitching together spreadsheets, slide decks, and conflicting reportsHow legacy GTM data models quietly destroy credibility at the executive levelThe most common data architecture flaw preventing revenue visibility (and why it's so easy to miss)The moment leaders realize they can't survive another quarter operating this wayWhat it takes to shift from lagging, backward-looking metrics to forward-looking visibilityThis stage forces a hard reckoning.Not just with your systems, but with your willingness to challenge the status quo, speak uncomfortable truths, and admit that the current way of measuring GTM is no longer good enough.

In this episode, I sit down with Jayci, owner of Tiny Play Café, for a thoughtful, experience-based conversation about what it looks like to operate a play café several years into the business.Jayci shares how her café fits into the overall revenue picture, including how the café itself contributes to monthly sales and why local B2B sponsorships have become a meaningful and reliable part of her business model.We dive into how she uses summer camps strategically to help offset slower seasons, what finally made camps work for her, and how timing, structure, and staffing played a role in their success.We also discuss staffing realities, running a business from nearly an hour away, lessons learned during the build-out process, and how Jayci is thinking intentionally about the next phase of the business as her season of life evolves.If you're looking for practical insight, real examples, and perspective from an owner who has successfully navigated multiple seasons of this business, this episode offers a lot to learn from.Tiny Play Cafe WebsiteTiny Play Cafe Tik TokTiny Play Cafe InstagramOTHER RESOURCES:Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers SocietyGetting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 GuideFund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting WaitlistMichele's InstagramMichele's WebsitePlay Cafe Academy YouTube ChannelETSY Template ShopPrepare Your Indoor Playground For a RecessionPlay Cafe Academy & Play Makers SocietyQuestions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fDQuestions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLivingActive Campaign Free TrialFree Demo of Aluvii All-In-One POS

Today's guest is Kuo Zhang, President of Alibaba.com. Alibaba.com is a global B2B marketplace connecting small and mid-sized businesses with manufacturers and suppliers worldwide. Kuo joins Emerj Editorial Director Matthew DeMello for an exclusive interview following his keynote address at this year's CoCreate event in Las Vegas to discuss how agentic AI is lowering barriers to global sourcing, transforming procurement workflows, and reshaping how organizations of all sizes move from product idea to execution. Kuo also breaks down the practical efficiencies emerging from AI-driven automation—from reducing manual supplier communication to streamlining global transactions and trade assurance—and explains where enterprises are already seeing measurable ROI through faster cycle times, expanded sourcing options, and increased operational resilience. You can read an article analysis of today's conversation, originally published on Emerj.com, here. Want to share your AI adoption story with executive peers? Click emerj.com/expert2 for more information and to be a potential future guest on the 'AI in Business' podcast! If you've enjoyed or benefited from some of the insights of this episode, consider leaving us a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and let us know what you learned, found helpful, or liked most about this show! Watch Matt and Kuo's conversation on our new YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@EmerjAIResearch.

This week—and next week—we take a look back at the conversations we've had over the past year, highlighting some of our happiest, smartest, funniest, and most difficult exchanges, including Paul Downs on how he diced which employees to lay off, Jennifer Kerhin on asking ChatGPT to review her performance as CEO, Kate Morgan on why she's been reluctant to raise her prices, Liz Picarazzi on her search for a domestic manufacturer for her trash enclosures, Ari Weinzweig on why Zingerman's charges so much for a hamburger, and David C. Barnett on why your business is probably worth more to you owning it than selling it.

SummaryChris Ford, Lead Designer at Refine Labs, shares how creative professionals can harness AI without compromising artistic integrity. Speaking to an audience navigating the rapid shift toward automation in design and marketing, Ford clarifies that tools like Midjourney and Runway are accelerators—not replacements—for real strategic thinking. His journey from teen coder to strategic designer reveals the mindset shift creatives must adopt to thrive in a performance-driven, AI-infused landscape. This episode demystifies AI's impact on modern B2B marketing workflows while reinforcing the value of human empathy, nuance, and storytelling.Topics CoveredAI as a creative partner in modern B2B marketingCreative strategy in a performance-first demand gen environmentHow Refine Labs designers adapt AI for speed, not shortcutsBrand storytelling vs. AI outputCreative autonomy and process efficiencyFree and paid AI tools for image and motion designNavigating the psychological shift toward automationThe future of human creativity in AI-saturated workflowsStrategic experimentation and creative boundariesQuestions This Video Helps AnswerHow are B2B creatives using AI tools like Midjourney and Runway today?What's the right mindset for using AI in design without losing creative control?Where should human creativity draw the line with AI-generated content?What tools help accelerate creative workflows without sacrificing originality?How should creatives adapt to AI without fearing job replacement?What is the future of creative work in AI-augmented environments?Jobs, Roles, and Responsibilities MentionedGraphic DesignerCreative StrategistPerformance MarketerContent CreatorVisual DesignerCopywriterMarketing TechnologistBrand StrategistAI Prompt Engineer (implied role)Key TakeawaysAI accelerates design iteration but doesn't replace creative judgment or empathy.Tools like Midjourney, Runway, and ChatGPT help visualize concepts quickly and reduce time spent on repetitive tasks.Refine Labs designers use AI to test ideas faster, not to generate final creative without human input.The "line" of AI involvement depends on complexity, originality, and personal creative ethics.Being strategic with experimentation ensures AI enhances—rather than dilutes—brand quality.The coming shift isn't AI vs. humans, but AI with humans who adapt and lead.FAQWhat AI tools does Chris Ford use most in his creative workflow?Midjourney for image generation, Runway for animation, and ChatGPT for ideation and refining language.Is AI replacing creative jobs in B2B marketing?Not directly. Ford explains that AI requires human oversight and strategy, making creatives who adapt more valuable—not obsolete.How does Refine Labs integrate AI in its design process?By using AI to accelerate idea generation and reduce manual work, while keeping creative direction and brand storytelling in human hands.Are there free AI tools creatives can explore?Yes. Midjourney offers a limited free trial, and tools like Google Gemini are free. Search “AI tools” with “free” in quotes to discover more.What's the biggest creative challenge when using AI?Time lost on prompt engineering and editing outputs. Not all tools produce high-quality or precise results, so human refinement is still essential.Quoted Highlights“AI gives me the options, but my creativity gives me the direction.” – Chris Ford [00:09:11]“It's not just pixels—it's purpose.” – Chris Ford [00:22:30]“I never saw AI as a threat. I saw it as a collaborative tool.” – Chris Ford [00:05:12]“Strategic thinking without AI is still my foundation. These tools just optimize my workflow.” – Chris Ford [00:24:10]“If you want AI-created results, you need to be okay with AI-level quality.” – Chris Ford [00:21:02]

What does it take to bootstrap a B2B SaaS company to tens of thousands of users and adapt to the changing landscape of lead generation? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, serial entrepreneur Besnik Vrellaku, founder and CEO of Salesflow, joins Vinay Koshy to discuss the strategies and lessons that drove his company's rapid growth. He shares insights on overcoming stagnation, fostering a culture of experimentation, and the challenges of scaling without external funding. He explains the importance of monitoring customer acquisition costs, how his approach to product development and customer feedback has evolved, and how experimentation is integrated across all departments at Salesflow. The discussion also covers the impact of multi-channel outreach, data-driven decisions, and AI-driven personalization on B2B sales, as well as the value of learning through challenges. This episode offers transparent insights and actionable takeaways for founders, sales leaders, and anyone interested in growth strategies. It encourages a fresh perspective on building predictable B2B success from the ground up. Some topics we explore in this episode include: B2B Lead Generation & SalesFlow.io's Multi-Channel ApproachBootstrapping and Resourcefulness in SaaSGrowth Experimentation and Rapid IterationBalancing Customer Feedback vs. Product VisionProduct Development & Tech Adoption (AI, Multi-Channel)Resource Prioritization Between Maintenance and InnovationLeveraging AI and Data for Campaign OptimizationAutomation's Impact on SDR RolesCreating a Culture of ExperimentationOutbound Messaging, Channel Selection, and Emerging PlatformsAnd much, much more...

A CMO Confidential Interview with Kate Bullis and David Wiser, Managing Partners and Global Marketing Practice Leaders for ZRG Partners. Kate and David translate their extensive search experience to classify common mistakes into "movie themes" and share tips on how to recognize if you are directing or reading for a part in a disaster film. From "Play It Again, Sam," to "No, No, It's Really A CMO Role!" to "Death by Committee!" they describe the all-too-familiar plotlines and how to tear apart the hype from the facts. Hints: Look at the dashboard, listen to the questions and beware of the "Hands on the keyboard" role. Tune in to hear why companies should focus on outcomes versus qualifications and why you should always check your Zoom background. What are the five bad “movies” CEOs and boards keep remaking when they hire CMOs—and how do you avoid starring in one? Mike Linton sits down with ZRG Partners' Kate Bullis and David Wiser to unpack 2025's CMO market, why early-stage hiring should rebound, and how capital and IPO activity reset expectations from “profit at all costs” back to growth. They break down the most common failure modes—chasing a playbook, hiring an “orchestra,” titling a demand-gen job as “CMO,” forcing marketing to “stay in its lane,” and letting committees kill momentum—and the exact questions candidates and CEOs should ask to surface scope, KPIs, authority, and alignment.You'll hear red flags like “hands-on keyboard,” why the KPI dashboard effectively *is* the job description, and how cross-functional interviews reveal whether a CMO will be a strategist or an order taker. David and Kate close with urgency discipline for searches and a three-year business-back plan for defining the role.CMO Confidential, Mike Linton, ZRG Partners, Kate Bullis, David Wiser, CMO hiring, marketing leadership, executive search, CEO, board of directors, hiring mistakes, KPI dashboard, hands-on-keyboard, demand generation, brand vs performance, org design, stay in your lane, death by committee, playbook vs framework, 2025 job market, private equity, IPOs, marketing strategy, B2B marketing, growth vs profitability---Chapters00:00 – Welcome & show setup01:08 – Meet Kate Bullis & David Wiser (ZRG Partners)01:32 – 2025 CMO job market outlook02:56 – Where hiring rebounds first (startups vs. public)04:24 – From profitability snapback to growth focus05:35 – Theme 1: “Play it again, Sam” (playbook thinking)06:48 – Frameworks over playbooks: why “fetch” fails08:16 – KPIs as the real scope: the dashboard test10:08 – Theme 2: “I want the orchestra” (do-it-all CMO)12:44 – Red flag: “hands-on keyboard” and checkbox hiring14:19 – Theme 3: “No, really, it's a CMO role” (but it's demand gen)15:31 – B2B trap: title inflation and scope mismatch18:25 – Measure what matters: aligning title, work, and KPIs19:00 – Theme 4: “Stay in your lane” (the Yes Center)20:20 – Sales/product-driven constraints and influence22:00 – Theme 5: “Death by committee” (misalignment & vetoes)23:18 – Fixing alignment: who decides and how25:26 – Why bad movies still get made: urgency and drift27:54 – The other mistake: lack of urgency in searches28:43 – Funniest recruiting moments (Zoom era)30:21 – Practical advice: define the next 3 years, then the role31:29 – Wrap and where to listenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you want to improve your sales results, first focus on the quantity and quality of sales calls.  While this may sound blatantly obvious, it's often neglected, and more rarely ever the focus of an organization's efforts. Yet, it's the keystone event in the sales process. Whether you are a salesperson, a sales leader or the Chief Sales Officer, you can use this concept to make a difference in your sales results. ********************************************* Dave Kahle is a B2B sales expert and a Christian Business thought leader.  He has authored 13 books, presented in 47 states and 11 countries and worked with over 500 sales organizations.  In these ten-minute podcasts, his unique blend of out-of-the-box thinking and practical insights will challenge and enable you to sell better, lead better and live better.        Subscribe to these ten-minute helpings of out-of-the-box inspiration, education and motivation. WWW,DaveKahle.com Dave's Substack page  Subscribe to Dave's Newsletters

Curious how AI can supercharge your LinkedIn profile or website? In this episode of Let's Get Surety®, marketing pro Andy Crestodina joins Kat Shamapande and Mark McCallum to share hands-on AI prompts and tips for optimizing personal branding and B2B marketing on LinkedIn and beyond. Discover tactical, real-world ways to make your online presence work harder for you—no marketing background required. With special guest: Andy Crestodina, Co-Founder / Chief Marketing Officer, Orbit Media Studios, Inc. Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Liberty Mutual Surety!

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribeJoin me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Jas (https://x.com/creatingjas) about his incredible success building a local newsletter empire.In just six months, Jas has managed to scale a total audience of 50,000 people in Winnipeg, creating what he calls a modern-day newspaper. We break down the exact business model he used to escape the social media algorithm, his strategy for monopolizing a non-tech-savvy city, and how he's on track to generate over $100,000 in annual ad revenue.Whether you're looking for a high-margin side hustle or want to learn how to own the relationship with your customers, Jas shares the exact playbook, from Facebook Ads and AI prompts to B2B sales tactics.Questions This Episode Answers:1. How do you scale a local email list to 16,000 subscribers in under six months?2. Why is owning the audience through a newsletter safer than building on Instagram or Twitter?3. How can you use AI and ChatGPT to write content that sounds like a local resident?4. What is the "strategic scroll" and why should you put your best content at the bottom?5. How do you pitch exclusive annual ad contracts to local businesses?Enjoy the conversation!__________________________Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback.Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts.__________________________MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribeSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98yApple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT__________________________This week we covered:00:00 Introduction00:45 Newsletter Journey and Growth02:53 Understanding the Value of Newsletters03:40 Local vs. Traditional Newsletters04:40 Content and Structure of the Newsletter06:14 Choosing the Right Newsletter Focus10:03 Frequency and Content Management14:55 Using AI and Manual Processes20:01 Growing the Subscriber Base22:52 Subscriber Acquisition Costs23:56 Effective Ad Strategies24:58 Subscriber Retention Insights25:34 Exploring Acquisition Channels30:23 Monetization Strategies39:35 Revenue and Costs Breakdown41:17 The Side Hustle Potential42:54 Final Thoughts and Contact Info

Send us a textExploring the Future of Technology with Evan KirstelIn this episode of The Wireless Way, host Chris Whitaker interviews Evan Kirstel, a B2B social media maven and tech industry storyteller with over 30 years of experience. They discuss Evan's journey in the tech industry, the evolution from 1G to 5G, and the exciting future of AI and 6G. Evan emphasizes the importance of being a content creator rather than just a consumer and shares insights on the impact of AI, wireless technology advancements, and the potential of new tech innovations. The conversation also covers the significance of continuous learning and staying adaptable in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:09 Evan Kirstel's Journey in Tech03:03 The Exciting World of Content Creation03:53 Advice for Tech Enthusiasts09:19 The Impact of AI in Content and Business12:33 Future of Wireless Technology15:33 Closing Thoughts and CES PreviewMore on EvanMore on TechImpact TVSupport the showCheck out my website https://thewirelessway.net/ use the contact button to send request and feedback.

ILLENIUM presents his live set B2B with Seven Lions from Ember Shores 2025!Don't forget to rate & review on all of your favorite podcast apps! Post your comments on twitter @ILLENIUM #PHOENIXRADIO

Fred and Sherrod were top-tier corporate sales performers pulling in six-figure salaries before they realized that the local "dirty" businesses—like junk haulers and carpet cleaners—were actually out-earning them while enjoying significantly more freedom. Tired of the "gilded cage" of corporate America, this US Army veteran duo walked away from their Fortune 500 careers to build Accelerated Waste Solutions. Today, they've turned a borrowed pickup truck into a national system that generates $1 million a month with a staggering 60% gross profit margin.In this episode, Fred and Sherrod join Ryan Atkinson to break down their recession-proof playbook for building a high-margin service business. They dive deep into why they prioritize B2B contracts over B2C, explaining the strategic shift from "renting" customers to "owning" them through recurring revenue. You'll learn the mathematical secrets behind their "Bigger Trucks, Better Pricing" competitive advantage and how they used a patented junk removal app to bring transparency and technology to the waste management industry.From leveraging relationships at the local Chamber of Commerce to the conviction required to turn down a $5 million acquisition offer, Fred and Sherrod share the grit and systems needed to scale a successful franchise. Whether you're interested in business acquisition, startup advice for service-based businesses, or transitioning from sales to CEO, this interview provides the roadmap to financial independence. Stay tuned for their "fan blitz" where they reveal the essential tools—like the humble dolly and scoop shovel—that save their teams hours of labor every single weekTakeaways:- The realization that local service providers often out-earn six-figure corporate employees can be the ultimate catalyst for leaving the corporate ladder.- Focusing on B2B contracts with apartment complexes allows a business to "own" a customer through recurring revenue rather than "renting" them for one-time residential events.- Successful business opportunities often stem from solving personal daily frustrations, such as the inconvenience of transporting trash across a large residential property.- Maintaining a 60% gross profit margin is achievable by using larger trucks and precise mathematical volume calculations to offer the most competitive price per cubic yard.- Integrating patented technology like photo-based reporting creates a transparency "trust factor" that differentiates a service business from competitors who use bait-and-switch pricing.- Prioritizing community relationships and joining local chambers of commerce is often more effective for long-term growth than immediate, unguided prospecting.- Entrepreneurs must identify their "Achilles' heels" early on and utilize resources like AI or specialized sales training to offset their personal skill gaps.- Investing in simple but essential equipment like heavy-duty dollies and scoop shovels prevents unprofessionalism and saves hours of physical labor on the job site.- Maximizing daily efficiency requires a purposeful routing plan for both service calls and prospecting before even leaving the house in the morning.- Having a clear vision and a "why" beyond just money provides the conviction necessary to turn down premature multi-million dollar acquisition offers in favor of long-term scaling.Tags: Side Hustle, Entrepreneurship, B2B, Business Mindset, Startup, Customer Retention, Junk Hauling Resources:Grow your business today:  https://links.upflip.com/the-business-startup-and-growth-blueprint-podcast Connect with Fred and Sherrod:https://www.instagram.com/awsfranchise/?hl=en

Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@mreapodcastWe sit down with New Hampshire's #1 real estate team leader, Adam Dow, a powerhouse real estate agent who has held the top spot for a decade and closes more than $200M a year. Adam runs one of the most unusual and effective business models we've seen: half luxury, relationship-driven and half AI-powered lead generation.In this conversation, Adam walks us through his “Three Bucket System” — Top 10 Influencers, Top 100 Influencers, and Top 100 People to Know — and shows us how he earns influence through value, not volume. He breaks down influencer lunches, his people-to-know conversation frameworks, and the simple monthly cadence that turns 200 relationships into dozens of luxury deals.We also dive deep into how his team uses AI, SEO, and answer-engine optimization to capture the other half of its production. From blog content discovered on Perplexity to cleaning up digital bios so AI identifies you as the expert, Adam is years ahead of the curve.This episode explains how to build a business that is both deeply personal and powerfully technological. Adam proves that anyone can do it.Resources:Order the Millionaire Real Estate Agent Playbook | Volume 3Connect with Jason:LinkedinProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not  Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.WARNING! You must comply with the TCPA and any other federal, state or local laws, including for B2B calls and texts. Never call or text a number on any Do Not Call list, and do not use an autodialer or artificial voice or prerecorded messages without proper consent. Contact your attorney to ensure your compliance.

#724 LinkedIn isn't just a “nice to have” anymore — it might be the fastest way to build real B2B pipeline if you know how to play the game! In this episode, host Brien Gearin sits down with Shamus Madan, founder of Dealroom Media, to break down how his team helps founders go viral on LinkedIn and turn content into sales conversations. Shamus shares his origin story (starting a podcast at 15, working his way up to landing Mark Cuban), the hard pivot that saved his business after nearly running out of money, and the simple system they use today: biweekly founder interviews, turning those into high-performing posts, scheduling + approvals, and tracking results. They also unpack the difference between “virality” vs. “pipeline content,” the three ingredients of a winning LinkedIn hook, how often to post, what actually matters on your profile, and why content-first companies will win the next decade! What we discuss with Shamus: + LinkedIn as a pipeline engine + Virality vs. pipeline content + Founder-led personal brands + Three-part viral hook formula + Biweekly SME interviews + Content from conversations + Posting frequency (3–5/week) + Profile optimization basics + Month-to-month client model + Content-first growth strategy Thank you, Shamus! Check out Dealroom Media at Dealroom.media. Watch the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠video podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MillionaireUniversity.com/training⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

314 | In this episode, Dmitry Shamis sits down with Dave to break down how Dave writes—the process behind emails, newsletters, landing pages, and posts that get attention. They talk about why Dave starts with the hook, why editing matters more than writing, and why most B2B marketing fails by trying to say too much. Dave also shares how podcasting shaped his thinking, why formatting is underrated, how he decides when something is “done,” and why shipping beats waiting for perfection. If you want to learn more behind Dave's writing, creation, and marketing this episode is a great one for you; Dave shares a bunch of his behind the scenes style that he's not shared on the podcast before.What's Your Process? is hosted by Dmitry Shamis—co-founder of OhSnap!, former Head of Brand and Creative at HubSpot, and one of the early pioneers of self-service brand systems for B2B tech. The show is an in-depth look at the processes behind top marketers, with past guests including Jess Cook, Ross Simmonds, Eddie Shleyner, Lashay Lewis, and Melissa Rosenthal.Timestamps(00:00) - – Why this conversation matters (05:38) - – Dave's background and path into marketing (09:53) - – What Dave is world-class at (and why copy is the leverage) (14:28) - – Why hooks come first and editing beats writing (19:48) - – How podcasting sharpened Dave's instincts (25:18) - – Formatting, focus, and making writing easier to read (32:35) - – Deciding when something is “done” and when to ship (39:05) - – Why most B2B marketing fails by trying to say too much (45:50) - – Raising the bar, big bets, and making hard leadership calls Join 50,0000 people who get our Exit Five Newsletter here: https://www.exitfive.com/newsletterLearn more about Exit Five's private marketing community: https://www.exitfive.com/***Today's episode is brought to you by Knak.Email (in my humble opinion) is the still the greatest marketing channel of all-time.It's the only way you can truly “own” your audience.But when it comes to building the emails - if you've ever tried building an email in an enterprise marketing automation platform, you know how painful it can be. Templates are too rigid, editing code can break things and the whole process just takes forever. That's why we love Knak here at Exit Five. Knak a no-code email platform that makes it easy to create on-brand, high-performing emails - without the bottlenecks.Frustrated by clunky email builders? You need Knak.Tired of ‘hoping' the email you sent looks good across all devices? Just test in Knak first.Big team making it hard to collaborate and get approvals? Definitely Knak.And the best part? Everything takes a fraction of the time.See Knak in action at knak.com/exit-five. Or just let them know you heard about Knak on Exit Five.***Thanks to my friends at hatch.fm for producing this episode and handling all of the Exit Five podcast production.They give you unlimited podcast editing and strategy for your B2B podcast.Get unlimited podcast editing and on-demand strategy for one low monthly cost. Just upload your episode, and they take care of the rest.Visit hatch.fm to learn more

In this episode of Founder Talk, I sit down with John Morris, founder of 444 Media and host of Golf with JMO, to break down how podcasting can be used as a business development engine, not just a marketing channel.Together, John and I unpacked why cold outreach no longer works like it once did, how real conversations build trust faster than any pitch, and how founders can use podcasting to shorten sales cycles, open doors with decision-makers, and create leverage across their entire business. John explains why podcasts work even without massive downloads, what most founders get wrong when they try content, and how designing intentional experiences turns guests into partners, customers, and advocates.We also dive into John's personal reinvention, how hitting rock bottom reshaped his leadership style, and why founders can no longer hide behind logos if they want to grow. Today's audience follows people, not companies.You'll learn:✅ How podcasting can function as a business development engine✅ Why giving people a platform builds trust faster than pitching them✅ How to use conversations to shorten sales cycles and open doors✅ Why brand experiences matter more than messaging✅ What it takes to reinvent yourself and your business with intentionIf you're a founder, entrepreneur, or business owner looking to replace cold outreach with warm relationships and turn conversations into revenue, this episode gives you a practical, real-world playbook.Connect with John MorrisGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%E2%98%98%EF%B8%8Fjohn-morris%E2%98%98%EF%B8%8F/Guest Website: https://444.media/If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: ⁠https://impaxs.com⁠Head to our website to stream every episode on your favorite platform, join the Founder Talk community, and submit questions for future guests–all in one place: https://foundertalkpodcast.com/Timecodes00:00 Introduction to John Morris and 444 Media00:06 The Root Beer Conversation00:26 John's Entrepreneurial Journey02:15 Battling Depression and Anxiety04:30 The Turning Point: A Near-Death Experience06:27 Rebuilding Life and Starting Golf with JMO10:54 Launching 444 Media17:32 The Power of Podcasting39:19 The Importance of Depth in Conversations41:00 The Role of Preparation in Hosting42:17 Effective Interview Techniques46:38 Qualities of a Great Podcast Guest54:36 Starting Your Own Podcast: Key Steps01:01:20 The Value of Podcast Metrics01:04:01 Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship01:07:31 Introducing 'The Multipliers' Podcast01:16:42 Final Thoughts and Farewell

What happens when every month you have no idea what you're going to make that month? That's the reality for a lot of women consultants, and that was Stephanie Lowe's reality - even after her best year ever. Today, Stephanie is booked months out with a solid savings cushion. She's not holding her breath anymore. In this episode, you'll hear what changed - including the pipeline coverage math that most consultants don't know, and why you probably need to do way more marketing than you think.   ---   When you're ready to break through to the next revenue level in your consulting business, here are three ways I can help you.   1. Connect with me on LinkedIn for weekly insights on landing better clients and charging for the value you deliver.   2. Get your copy of my Referrals on Repeat guide, and learn five strategies you can implement straight away to take control of the referral process and attract more of the right inquiries – no more sitting around hoping they'll happen. Get your free copy at smartgetspaid.com/referrals   3. Build a repeatable sales and marketing system that gets you better clients, better rates, and less stress in your consulting business. If you're ready to stop leaving your success to chance, learn the proven system women consultants are using to attract ideal clients consistently and get paid for their value. Plus, you'll get help from me and my team every step of the way. If you've been in business for at least two years, you're making at least $120k, and you want to implement a system that's designed specifically for B2B consulting businesses, email team@smartgetspaid.com with "BREAKTHROUGH" in the subject line and I'll get you the details.  

Are you a vendor or a partner? Whitney Ferris argues that "transactional selling" is a relic of the past. To survive today's complex B2B landscape, you must master the human elements of the deal. High-impact performers focus on three pillars: Meaningful Urgency: Tying solutions to real business risks, not fake deadlines. Radical Consistency: Building an untouchable reputation through reliable follow-through. Ethical Outcomes: Prioritizing "win-win" deals that ensure long-term referrals. By balancing disciplined preparation with genuine empathy, you transform your sales desk into a value engine.

We are multi-million-dollar CEOs specializing in sales and go to market teams in tech. We've met more millionaire sales people than you can count. This is exactly how to explode your income in our favorite career path. We are multi-million-dollar CEOs specializing in sales and go to market teams in tech. We've met more millionaire sales people than you can count. This is exactly how to explode your income in our favorite career path. Thanks for tuning in! Catch new episodes every Sunday Subscribe to Topline Newsletter. Tune into Topline Podcast, the #1 podcast for founders, operators, and investors in B2B tech. Join the free Topline Slack channel to connect with 600+ revenue leaders to keep the conversation going beyond the podcast!   Chapters: 01:46 Sales Market Trivia: Headcounts and Income Statistics 07:14 CRO Compensation Realities and OTE Attainment 11:36 Can You Make $100k in Your First Year? 15:53 Essential Personality Traits for Top Sales Performance 21:25 The Timeline to Earning $200k and $300k 30:23 Strategies for Earning $1 Million in Sales 33:10 Executive Equity and Valuation Multiples in AI 38:10 Debate: Is OpenAI Too Big to Fail? 44:06 Kyle Poyar Joins: The State of AI Growth 45:17 Why AI Implementations Are Missing Expectations 50:32 Product Market Fit and AI-Driven Disillusionment 01:05:10 The Decline of Seat-Based Pricing Models 01:09:44 Emerging Pricing Models: Credits and Pass-Through Costs 01:17:48 The $500 Billion OpenAI Investment Question  

I spent two years scaling the wrong business and one conversation with Alex Hormozi's Chief Strategy Officer reframed everything. Here's what happened: I'd built a consulting business to $50K/month doing sales audits and fractional management, but I thought "this isn't scalable." So I pivoted—created courses, built a community, started teaching people how to turn expertise into income. I ended up in a sea of competition selling to the wrong audience at the wrong price point. His CSO said: "Dude, you solved the wrong problem. The problem wasn't 'this isn't scalable.' The problem was 'you didn't know how to scale it yet.'" He showed me around their 20,000 square foot building with 400 people and said, "We don't use the word 'scalable' here. Some things are just way harder to scale than others. That's why Alex and Leila own 50 companies." This episode breaks down what happened next: I killed the community, threw the courses on YouTube, and said "I don't teach this shit, I do this shit." We launched MSP Sales Partners doing fractional sales management—the thing I was actually great at—and spent a year refining the product before stepping on the gas. Learn why I'm intentionally running net neutral right now to build a moat nobody else will, why being picky with hiring and delaying profits creates competitive advantage, and how that subtle twist of words—"you didn't know how to scale it" versus "it isn't scalable"—changes everything.//Welcome to Repeatable Revenue, hosted by strategic growth advisor , Ray J. Green.About Ray:→ Former Managing Director of National Small & Midsize Business at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he doubled revenue per sale in fundraising, led the first increase in SMB membership, co-built a national Mid-Market sales channel, and more.→ Former CEO operator for several investor groups where he led turnarounds of recently acquired small businesses.→ Current founder of MSP Sales Partners, where we currently help IT companies scale sales: www.MSPSalesPartners.com→ Current Sales & Sales Management Expert in Residence at the world's largest IT business mastermind.→ Current Managing Partner of Repeatable Revenue Ventures, where we scale B2B companies we have equity in: www.RayJGreen.com//Follow Ray on:YouTube | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Charlie and Colin dive into the quantum computing debate. Is it a threat to Bitcoin or just VC hype? We explore vulnerable addresses, Nick Carter's thesis, the 2028 timeline, and the controversial plan to "burn" Satoshi's coins to save the network from a $100B hack. Charlie and Colin join us to talk about the existential risk of quantum computing. We break down Nick Carter's latest research, the timeline for a potential quantum break, and the 2 million Bitcoin currently at risk. We debate the ethics of "burning" Satoshi's coins to save the network, the technical challenges of forking to quantum-resistant signatures, and why the next big Bitcoin civil war might be fought over physics. Subscribe to the newsletter! [https://newsletter.blockspacemedia.com](https://newsletter.blockspacemedia.com) Notes: * 1-2 million BTC are quantum vulnerable * Satoshi holds ~$100 billion in Bitcoin * Legacy crypto banned by US Gov by 2035 * Elliptic curve break projected 2028-2033 * $500 billion sitting in vulnerable wallets Timestamps: 00:00 Start 01:16 Overview 06:26 Do we do anything? 08:48 Companies pumping quantum bags 19:18 Bitcoin as bug bounty 23:37 How to quantum proof Bitcoin? 26:14 BIP 360 35:48 Philosophy & chain splits -

In this episode, Travis and his producer Eric react to a series of viral skits that poke fun at B2B sales reps, door-to-door bros, and MLM stereotypes—and use them to break down what actually makes for good, ethical selling. The conversation hits on empathy, objection handling, long-term thinking, and why trying to “pound” customers for one big commission check is a terrible strategy if you want a real career in sales. On this episode we talk about: Viral comedy skits about B2B sales, breakups with sales bros, and door-to-door stereotypes—and why they're so accurate. Why great salespeople are genuinely empathetic, listen deeply, and try to understand prospects instead of waiting to talk. How phrases like “totally understand” and “so what I'm hearing is…” can be powerful when they're rooted in real curiosity, not manipulation. The difference between transactional, burn-and-churn sales (pest control, alarms, etc.) and relational, long-cycle sales where reputation matters. Why treating people well, solving real problems, and playing the long game leads to referrals, repeat business, and an actual book of business. Top 3 Takeaways The best salespeople don't see selling as “winning” against a customer; they aim for a genuine win–win where the client's problem is solved and the rep is fairly paid. Simple frameworks like “feel–felt–found,” restating what you're hearing, and handling objections are ethical and effective when you truly believe in your product and its fit. Burning customers for a slightly bigger commission check destroys long-term opportunity; taking care of people builds referrals, repeat deals, and an actual business instead of just a job. Notable Quotes "Your job as a salesperson is to remove all obstacles to the person making a decision that's going to help them." "If only you win in the deal, that's a problem—either your product sucks or you're actually in a pyramid scheme." "Most salespeople just want to get through the pitch; they forget there's an actual person on the other side of the call." ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Recruitment entrepreneur Kevin Downey reveals why his system thrives on cold B2B email: simple, human copy, and flawless compliance. Forget the marketing jargon and complex subject lines. Your email should mimic a voicemail: direct, conversational, and hyper-focused. Start with a clear pain point, offer a brief solution, and use a Call to Action (CTA) that only asks for a simple reply. Downey's data shows that simple, vague subject lines outperform gimmicks. Crucially, personalization should be minimal (First Name is enough)—overdoing it signals automation. Measure only the Reply Rate, ignore opens, and follow the simple rule for compliance: include a physical address and an easy opt-out.

I was on a coaching call yesterday with a bunch of people selling IT services, and the question came up: how do you handle price objections? When somebody says "that's expensive" or "more than we're paying now" or "higher than other bids," what do you do? I've got a really simple framework that works across any competitive selling situation—IT services, professional services, whatever. Here's how it works: First, ask "What makes you say that?" to understand if this is a negotiation tactic, a stall, or a real gap. Then clarify what it's relative to—get them to tell you the actual number they're comparing against. Here's the key move: minimize the amount psychologically. If you quoted $60K and they're at $42K, stop talking about $60K—now you're negotiating the $18K gap. Then slice it even smaller: "So we're $1,500 a month apart, or about 50 bucks a day for compliance?" That sounds way better than a $60K contract. Finally, isolate it: "If we can bridge that gap, are you ready to go ahead?" This episode breaks down the psychology of reframing price conversations so you're not defending your number—you're making the gap feel manageable relative to the benefits they want. Works across industries once you understand what we're actually doing here.//Welcome to Repeatable Revenue, hosted by strategic growth advisor , Ray J. Green.About Ray:→ Former Managing Director of National Small & Midsize Business at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he doubled revenue per sale in fundraising, led the first increase in SMB membership, co-built a national Mid-Market sales channel, and more.→ Former CEO operator for several investor groups where he led turnarounds of recently acquired small businesses.→ Current founder of MSP Sales Partners, where we currently help IT companies scale sales: www.MSPSalesPartners.com→ Current Sales & Sales Management Expert in Residence at the world's largest IT business mastermind.→ Current Managing Partner of Repeatable Revenue Ventures, where we scale B2B companies we have equity in: www.RayJGreen.com//Follow Ray on:YouTube | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Dans cet épisode exceptionnel du podcast Connected Mateenregistré en direct sur TikTok, PPC a réuni quelques mates pour un grand débrief de l'année IA.Autour du micro :• Charles Nastorg, assembleur de bulles et de business dans le B2B,• Christian Belala, chef d'orchestre de la protection des données,• Aty, experte en rien et touche-à-tout du digital,• Jean-Emmanuel Séré, designer qui met de l'humain dans les choses de la vie,• Hubert Kratiroff, professeur d'économie numérique.Ensemble, ils revisitent les quatre thèmes forts de l'année :IA et société : adoption massive, résistance farouche, fracture cognitive.IA et création : explosion de la créativité assistée… mais à quel prix ?IA et business : illusions, promesses tenues et POC à répétition.IA et futur : que nous réserve 2026 ? Une IA omniprésente, plus invisible, plus agissante ?Une discussion riche, sans langue de bois, nourrie d'exemples concrets, de tensions, de visions opposées et d'un humour bienveillant qui fait du bien. Un épisode essentiel pour prendre de la hauteur, anticiper les mutations à venir et comprendre ce qui, dans cette année 2025, a déjà tout changé.

In this conversation, Stan Suchkov CEO and Co-founder of Evolve discusses his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of building diverse teams, navigating the challenges of startup funding, and the significance of hiring strategies. He shares insights on sales for both B2B and B2C markets, the impact of AI on learning, and the mindset required for long-term success in entrepreneurship. The discussion also touches on the value of connecting with influential entrepreneurs for guidance and inspiration.TakeawaysHire the person you don't like to balance your weaknesses.Building relationships with investors is crucial before fundraising.Actions speak louder than words when it comes to showing traction.Surround yourself with supportive people who can help you.Seek feedback from others to improve your product.Establish a clear company culture from the start.Start selling by yourself to gain valuable insights.Understand your market and budget for B2C products.Focus on one idea to avoid spreading yourself too thin.Connecting with experienced entrepreneurs can provide valuable insights.Interesting Topics00:00 The Importance of Diverse Teams02:54 Navigating the Startup Journey05:36 Building Relationships for Funding08:40 Hiring Strategies for Startups11:28 Sales Insights for B2B and B2C14:11 The Entrepreneurial Mindset17:20 Connecting with Influential EntrepreneursWhether you're launching your first startup, raising capital, or building a team around emerging AI technologies, this episode delivers real-world lessons you won't hear in a pitch deck.

John Corcoran is a recovering attorney, an author, and a former White House writer and speechwriter to the Governor of California. Throughout his career, John has worked in Hollywood, the heart of Silicon Valley, and run his boutique law firm in the San Francisco Bay Area, catering to small business owners and entrepreneurs. Since 2012, John has been the host of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, where he has interviewed hundreds of CEOs, founders, authors, and entrepreneurs, including Peter Diamandis, Adam Grant, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Marie Forleo. John is also the Co-founder of Rise25, a company that connects B2B businesses with their ideal clients, referral partners, and strategic partners. They help their clients generate ROI through their done-for-you podcast service. In this episode… Many professionals struggle to stand out online and build the relationships that fuel business growth, often feeling overwhelmed or plagued by impostor syndrome as they step into thought leadership. With countless tools and platforms competing for attention, it's hard to know where to focus. How can you overcome self-doubt, use modern tools effectively, and build meaningful B2B connections?  John Corcoran, a seasoned entrepreneur and relationship-building expert, faced these challenges directly by applying clear frameworks, smart technology, and a people-first mindset. Drawing on resources like Winnie Hart's The Daily Thought Leader, John shares how consistent, practical content can build credibility and quiet self-doubt. He also explains how AI note-taking tools and intentional email welcome sequences helped him boost productivity, nurture prospects, and turn casual interest into lasting professional relationships.  Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews John Corcoran about leveraging thought leadership and technology to build real B2B relationships. They discuss overcoming impostor syndrome, leveraging AI note-taking tools, and creating an effective email welcome series that nurtures leads and opens doors to new partnerships.

In this episode, I'm talking with Steve Ramona, who has turned his podcast into a lead generation engine that has opened doors to high value relationships, major deals, and unexpected opportunities. And he's going to share exactly how he does it with us today. >>> Here are 4 ways we can help you reach your revenue goals faster...#1 Unlock the full potential of your marketing engine. We'll provide you and your team with the direction, insights, and tools necessary to excel in the complex landscape of modern marketing. - Marketing Advisor On Call#2 Discover the marketing strategies & tactics that will guide your next quarter and unlock explosive growth in 90 minutes. - Quick-Start Marketing Strategy Game Plan#3 Discover a tailor-made strategy for unprecedented growth to transform your marketing in 30 days. - Unlock Your Growth Opportunities#4 If you need guidance on the most effective direction for your marketing, then schedule a call with us today! - Get Your Free Discovery Call Now

Conflicting jobs data indicates a complex economic landscape for IT service providers, as the unemployment rate in the tech sector has risen to 4% with a loss of 134,000 jobs between October and November 2025. Despite a drop in the overall unemployment rate to 4.2% and a projected growth of managed services contributing $608 billion to the B2B technology sector, the mixed signals from economic indicators complicate decision-making for the Federal Reserve and raise concerns about consumer spending. Analysts emphasize that the current job losses reflect a shift in responsibility from internal roles to external managed service providers (MSPs), which may not alleviate underlying risks.The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has released a draft profile addressing cybersecurity challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting the need for organizations to manage AI-related security risks effectively. This profile outlines how AI can enhance cybersecurity defenses while also detailing the responsibilities that come with its deployment. Recent assessments reveal that while some AI models perform better in security contexts, the lack of clarity around accountability when AI systems make decisions remains a significant concern for MSPs.Private equity activity is accelerating in the managed services sector, exemplified by Broadwing Capital's acquisition of CloudScale365, which aims to create a platform addressing gaps in the fragmented IT-managed services market. This consolidation trend raises questions for MSPs about operational norms and the potential loss of control over their business models. As platforms seek to standardize pricing and decision-making processes, MSPs must consider how these changes will affect their service delivery and customer relationships.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the evolving landscape underscores the importance of understanding where risk is shifting and how to price and govern accordingly. The retreat from AGI hype and the focus on practical AI applications signal a need for clarity in decision-making processes, particularly as automation becomes more prevalent. MSPs that can articulate the limitations of their AI systems and establish clear accountability frameworks will be better positioned to navigate the complexities of the current market. Four things to know today00:00 As Jobs Data Conflicts and Tech Employment Slips, Managed Services Absorb Risk and Responsibility05:46 NIST's AI Security Framework Meets Reality as Model Safety Gaps Expose Accountability Risks08:54 Broadwing Launches MSP Platform to Standardize Scale, Signaling Growing PE Pressure on MSP Operations11:03 AI Rebrands Itself as Open Source Expands, Automation Scales, and Accountability Gets Murkier This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://saasalerts.com/mspradio/ 

In this episode of Molecule to Market, you'll go inside the outsourcing space of the global drug development sector with Thomas Dobmeyer, medical, entrepreneur and investor at ekwithree.   Your host, Raman Sehgal, discusses the pharmaceutical and biotechnology supply chain with Thomas, covering: Choosing to freelance and consult as a medic after qualifying in medicine. Co-founding a niche regulatory affairs firm and growing it into a 3,000-person multinational pharmaceutical solutions organisation. Expanding into new countries, acquisitions, and domains to build scale and credibility in biopharma — with culture as the secret weapon. Why lawmakers and regulators became his best salespeople, and how increasing complexity, internationalisation, and market growth ultimately led to a $1.4B exit to Cencora. Life after the sale as an active investor and mentor — and the key trends Thomas sees shaping the future of drug development. Dr. Thomas Dobmeyer is a physician, researcher, and entrepreneur currently serving as a partner at ekwithree GmbH, a growth investment firm specializing in technology-driven B2B service providers. In this role, Thomas plays a key part in driving the organizational success of ekwithree and its diverse portfolio of companies.   With over two decades of extensive experience in the pharmaceutical and medical technology industries, Thomas was founder and CEO of PharmaLex GmbH. There, he spearheaded the transformation of a startup consulting boutique into a globally recognized unicorn company operating in 40 countries with 3,500 employees. His strategic expertise was instrumental in shaping and executing the company's business strategies, overseeing leadership team formation, advising on strategic matters, and ensuring the implementation of robust business plans to achieve corporate objectives. Under his leadership, PharmaLex successfully completed nearly 40 mergers and acquisitions, significantly expanding its global business model and footprint.   Molecule to Market is also sponsored by Bora Pharmaceuticals and Charles River Laboratories, and supported by Lead Candidate. Please subscribe, tell your industry colleagues and join us in celebrating and promoting the value and importance of the global life science outsourcing space. We'd also appreciate a positive rating!

Most great businesses start with a personal problem. For Brittany Hizer and Addie Gundry, a public restroom moment with Addie's infant son led to Pluie, the first self-sanitizing diaper changing table in the U.S.In this episode of Founder Talk, Brittany and I unpack the real journey behind building and scaling a physical product company, one with long sales cycles, manufacturing hurdles, capital constraints, and enterprise-level customers that move at their own speed.We dig into the unglamorous truth of creating physical products; the tooling costs, supply chain risk, design revisions, and the emotional weight of raising capital when your early investors are your friends and family. Brittany also explains how she and Addie Gundry validated the problem before building, created a complementary partnership as complete strangers, and used relentless outreach to get Pluie installed in stadiums, airports, malls, and national accounts across the country.Then we also talk about the company's major turning point, their Shark Tank exposure, and how it helped them gain unexpected momentum; opening doors to big accounts and accelerating Pluie's credibility with enterprise customers and reshaping their company's long-term growth strategy and allowing them to scale faster than typical traditional hardware startups. You'll learn:✅ Why the right partner matters more than having the right idea✅ How to validate a problem before spending money on a solution✅ The brutal reality of hardware timelines, cash needs, and operations✅ How persistence, follow-up, and cold outreach fuel early traction✅ Why the right customer segment can change your entire businessIf you're a founder building a physical product, pitching enterprise clients, or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, this episode is a blueprint for what it actually takes to keep going.Connect with Brittany Hizer:Guest LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-hizer-7806a74/Guest Website: https://hellopluie.com/If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: ⁠https://impaxs.com⁠Head to our website to stream every episode on your favorite platform, join the Founder Talk community, and submit questions for future guests–all in one place: https://foundertalkpodcast.com/Timecodes00:00 Introduction to Brittany Heiser and Pluie00:24 The Problem with Traditional Diaper Changing Tables01:20 The Birth of Pluie: From Concept to Reality03:58 Early Challenges and Entrepreneurial Insights08:46 Funding and Prototyping13:43 Navigating the Pandemic and Market Research25:35 Scaling Up: Manufacturing and Sales Strategies32:10 Lori's Feedback and Reflections34:27 Shark Tank Application Process35:54 Filming the Shark Tank Episode38:42 Post-Shark Tank Reflections40:53 Consumer Products and Expansion44:27 Impact of Shark Tank and Future Plans53:59 Challenges and Entrepreneurial Journey01:00:42 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this week's episode, Allen sits down with J. Jordan Thaeler — retail strategist, founder, operator, and the mind behind ReformingRetail. If you've ever wondered why retail keeps breaking… and what it actually takes to fix it… this conversation is for you.Jordan brings the unfiltered truth about:✔️ The real problems facing retail today✔️ What companies get wrong about growth & data✔️ Why most tech solutions miss the mark✔️ How to build retail operations that actually work✔️ The future of brick-and-mortar and digital integration✔️ Lessons from years advising retailers and foundersThis episode is packed with insights, straight talk, and the kind of perspective you won't find anywhere else.

Land Life is a technology-driven nature restoration company that restores landscapes degraded by wildfire, overfarming, and urbanization. The company combines proprietary remote sensing, machine learning algorithms, and hardware solutions to deliver end-to-end restoration projects spanning 40 years, monetized through voluntary and compliance carbon markets. With seven validated project design documents on Verra, Land Life has built a business model that requires customers to believe the company will exist for decades. In a recent episode of BUILDERS, we sat down with Rebekah Braswell, CEO of Land Life, to explore how the company navigated from global pilots in Saudi Arabia and the Galapagos to focused geographic operations, evolved its customer base from experimental tech buyers to conservative insurance companies, and repositioned its entire value proposition when climate dropped off corporate priority lists in 2024. Topics Discussed: Land Life's shift from selling technology components to customer-driven A-to-Z project delivery  Remote sensing dashboard that assesses ecological, operational, and economic feasibility before land visits  Securing environmental attributes while keeping land locally owned by landowners  Machine learning algorithms for determining optimal tree species, placement, and timing  Evolution from tech company early adopters to asset managers, financial institutions, and energy providers  The 2024 market standstill: how tariffs and defense spending displaced climate on corporate agendas  Strategic repositioning from "climate" to "resilience" language that connects to infrastructure and defense  Targeting biogenic customers in timber and agriculture with supply shed restoration strategies GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Let customer requirements redefine your product scope: Land Life initially sold discrete technology—cocoon hardware and software tools—to corporations. Buyers consistently responded: "great tech, but we sell shoes online for a living. I need a full project, A to Z." Rather than insisting on their original product definition, Rebekah agreed to plant trees and hire contractors despite "knowing very little at the time what it actually took." The company evolved from a technology vendor to a full-service restoration provider because that's what buyers would actually purchase. B2B founders should recognize when customer feedback reveals a larger market opportunity than their initial product scope, even if delivery capabilities don't yet exist. Target buyers whose operational experience mirrors your delivery complexity: Land Life struggled with tech companies despite strong initial traction because these customers operated on "much shorter term economic cycles" incompatible with 40-year projects. The company found stronger fit with financial institutions, insurance companies, and energy providers—buyers Rebekah described as "familiar with asset management, familiar with physical operations" who could "identify with some of the cycles that we have to manage in terms of planting windows." She told her team: "you know you have a business when an insurance company starts buying your product. These are conservative buyers." B2B founders with long implementation cycles, physical operations, or asset-intensive models should prioritize buyers with analogous operational complexity rather than chasing early adopters who lack relevant mental models. Build transparency infrastructure as core product, not marketing: For customers committing to 40-year relationships, Land Life addressed the fundamental trust problem through systematic monitoring and data sharing. Rebekah identified the specific perception barrier: "people have this image that people are just going out and planting trees and there's no accountability." The company's response wasn't better sales materials but "a data focused and transparent process" that continuously validates project performance. B2B founders selling long-term commitments should invest in measurement and reporting systems as primary credibility drivers, recognizing that transparency infrastructure is product, not overhead. Adapt positioning to buyer priority shifts without abandoning core value: When climate investments "came to a standstill for six months" in 2024, Land Life didn't pivot its business model—it reframed its language. Climate "just dropped on the priority list" as corporations focused on "AI, defense and tariffs." The company shifted to "resilience" positioning that "doesn't use the word climate in it" but connects to infrastructure, defense, and supply chain concerns. Critically, this wasn't invented messaging—Land Life had internally called their engineers "resilience engineers" for years because "you can't bet one climate scenario." B2B founders facing external market shifts should mine existing internal frameworks for language that naturally aligns with new buyer priorities rather than forcing artificial repositions. Expand value proposition beyond primary category benefit to operational impact: Land Life evolved from pure carbon sequestration sales to showing customers how restoration addresses their core operational risks. For biogenic customers—"people who work in timber, food and agriculture"—the pitch became: "if you're surrounded by a degraded ecosystem, it will eventually encroach" on your supply chain. Rebekah explained: "it's not just enough to have a robust supply chain like your field for example. Great that things are healthy there, but if you're surrounded by a degraded ecosystem, you know it will eventually encroach." This connected restoration directly to supply shed stability and de-risking rather than relying solely on carbon credit value. B2B founders should identify how their solution protects or enhances customers' existing operations, not just deliver category-specific benefits. Pursue partnerships to reach scale thresholds faster than organic growth allows: Rebekah emphasized that achieving buyer-required scale through partnerships is now essential: "buyers are looking for scale and it is hard for us, who are in nature based solutions and physical assets, to achieve that overnight." She advocated for "constructive and innovative partnerships where you can bring that scale to buyers, whether it's organic or just through partnering" as the path to "play at a different level." The sector signal is clear: "they want bigger volumes, they want stronger suppliers, and that path goes a lot more quickly when you partner, as opposed to trying to do it alone." B2B founders in capital-intensive or operationally complex businesses should view partnerships as strategic accelerators to reach minimum viable scale, not just growth tactics. // Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co // Don't Miss: New Podcast Series — How I Hire Senior GTM leaders share the tactical hiring frameworks they use to build winning revenue teams. Hosted by Andy Mowat, who scaled 4 unicorns from $10M to $100M+ ARR and launched Whispered to help executives find their next role. Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/53yCHlPfLSMFimtv0riPyM

What happens when economic volatility, tariff pressure, AI disruption, and shifting distributor behavior all collide in the same quarter?In this episode, Kevin and Tom unpack a whirlwind week inside wholesale distribution, revealing how new data, emerging AI workflows, and tariff rulings are reshaping strategy across the channel.Listeners gain a front-row view into the real conversations shaping 2025: revenue headwinds, inventory tightening, economic softening, distributor risk posture, and how AI agents are redefining customer-facing operations.What You'll Learn:Why distributors are tightening inventory positions heading into 2025, and what “flat inventories” actually signal about downstream demand.How upcoming tariff rulings and active lawsuits (like Costco's) may reshape pricing models, contract structures, and channel profitability.Why AI agents from Amazon, Salesforce, and emerging tools will transform inside sales, service platforms, counter operations, and multi-branch workflows.How economic signals, PCE, sentiment scores, personal spending, and Fed pacing, will shape capital planning into mid-2025.The competitive gap forming between distributors who unify data vs. those still operating silo-based systems.Episode Highlights:03:11 – Why this past holiday week felt like a 3-week sprint for operators and sales teams10:44 – Breaking down the PCE report, sentiment data, and the Fed's rate-cut trajectory18:26 – Are mortgage rates returning to the “fours”? A practical take on borrowing costs27:15 – Mohamed El-Erian's latest economic lens and why 2 percent inflation may be the wrong benchmark40:02 – Flat U.S. inventory levels and what that means for 2025 distributor demand53:19 – Costco's bold lawsuit over tariffs, and whether refunds to consumers are even logistically possible01:05:12 – Why Amazon's new AI agents increase competitive pressure on distributors01:17:50 – The rise of blueprint-driven AI takeoff tools (Home Depot, Lowe's, and the coming B2B wave)Tools, Frameworks & Strategies Mentioned:AI Agents for Distribution Ops (Amazon Connect, Salesforce Agentforce)Data Unification for AI Readiness (LeadSmart Platform + Data Cloud methodology)Synthetic Data for forecasting and demand simulationB2B Digital Takeoff Systems used by contractors and enterprise distributorsTariff Litigation Modeling driven by channel economicsClosing Insight:“AI isn't replacing distributors, AI is replacing the distributors who refuse to modernize.” This episode makes one message clear: the teams who unify their data, modernize their workflows, and embrace AI-assisted operations will define the next decade of competitive advantage.Leave a Review: Help us grow by sharing your thoughts on the show.Learn more about the LeadSmart AI B2B Sales Platform: https://www.leadsmarttech.com/ Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.

Ray Green answers a thought-provoking question from a friend: Is there a real difference between "play to win" and "play to not lose" people, and can you build an entire team of aggressive risk-takers? In this episode, Ray breaks down why he believes there are two distinct types of "play to not lose" people - Type 1 who are well-intentioned and think through proper risk mitigation, and Type 2 who operate from fear and lack of confidence. He explains why Type 1 people are actually assets who balance out aggressive play-to-win leaders, while Type 2 people are toxic liabilities that drain your organization. Ray shares a personal story from his first CEO role about constantly fighting with his co-founder, who drove him crazy but ultimately made him a better leader by having the confidence to speak truth to power. This is about understanding the balance you need on your team, knowing the difference between healthy defensive thinking and toxic negativity, and why you don't want a team of only one type of person.//Welcome to Repeatable Revenue, hosted by strategic growth advisor , Ray J. Green.About Ray:→ Former Managing Director of National Small & Midsize Business at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he doubled revenue per sale in fundraising, led the first increase in SMB membership, co-built a national Mid-Market sales channel, and more.→ Former CEO operator for several investor groups where he led turnarounds of recently acquired small businesses.→ Current founder of MSP Sales Partners, where we currently help IT companies scale sales: www.MSPSalesPartners.com→ Current Sales & Sales Management Expert in Residence at the world's largest IT business mastermind.→ Current Managing Partner of Repeatable Revenue Ventures, where we scale B2B companies we have equity in: www.RayJGreen.com//Follow Ray on:YouTube | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Alex Gluz is the Founder and CEO of Digital Marketing at T.A. Monroe Digital, an agency that specializes in helping B2B and SaaS companies perfect every step of their sales funnel. With years of experience in the industry, Alex creates systems and frameworks for scalable, profit-driving B2B digital marketing strategies, frameworks, and executions to drive ROI. Alex is also the host of the Revenue Engine Podcast, a show highlighting the top leaders in technology and marketing. In this episode… Businesses today face the challenge of balancing rapid growth with the increasing demands of trust-building, personal branding, and AI-driven innovation. While these elements have the potential to significantly accelerate business success, missteps can hinder progress, especially when companies fail to effectively integrate them into their strategy. So how can businesses harness these powerful tools to drive long-term growth and success? From building authentic relationships to embracing AI technology, leaders in this episode share invaluable insights on how to navigate these challenges. Mark Stiltner explains how AI can optimize marketing strategies, particularly in account-based marketing (ABM), making campaigns more efficient and impactful. Patrick Ferdig emphasizes the importance of trust in business relationships, highlighting how consistency and reliability build the foundation for long-term partnerships. Sylvia LePoidevin discusses the shift in branding, where individual employees are becoming the face of companies, using their personal influence to elevate the brand's message and connect more authentically with audiences. Kristin Oelke highlights how combining financial insights with a strong customer base provides a clearer picture of a business's future trajectory. Meanwhile, Usman Sheikh dives into the world of agentive AI, exploring how intelligent bots can transform sales processes by automating key tasks and generating measurable outcomes. In this episode of the Revenue Engine Podcast, Alex Gluz reflects on his insightful conversations with Mark Stiltner, Patrick Ferdig, Sylvia LePoidevin, Kristin Oelke, and Usman Sheikh. These industry leaders uncover the power of trust, personal branding, and AI in driving business growth. Together, they offer practical strategies for leveraging these tools to create scalable, sustainable success in today's competitive market.

In this candid conversation, Nathan and Bryan dive deep into the often-misunderstood world of sales in the construction and HVAC trades. Nathan, who has transitioned from fieldwork to spending roughly 60% of his time in sales, offers a unique perspective on why sales professionals are necessary despite the skepticism they face from tradespeople. The discussion tackles head-on the negative perceptions surrounding salespeople while making a compelling case for their essential role in growing and sustaining a trades business. The conversation explores the fundamental differences between residential and commercial sales, revealing insights that anyone in the industry will find valuable. Nathan explains that residential sales requires quick relationship-building, subject matter expertise, and the ability to emotionally connect and disconnect rapidly from customers you may only see every few years. It's essentially retail sales with a technical component. Commercial B2B sales, on the other hand, is far less transactional and much more relational—it's about building confidence, managing accounts effectively, and ensuring clients can focus on their core business while you handle their facility problems seamlessly. One of the most refreshing aspects of this discussion is Nathan's honesty about the unglamorous side of sales. He emphasizes that the job isn't about fancy lunches or golf outings—it's about being the person who answers their phone, follows through on commitments, and doesn't shy away from uncomfortable conversations. The guys share frustrating examples of poor salesmanship, from ghosting potential clients to making promises that can't be kept, illustrating how these failures give the entire profession a bad reputation. Nathan stresses that good sales is fundamentally about managing expectations, delivering on promises, and serving as the crucial liaison between customer needs and production capabilities. The conversation concludes with practical advice for tradespeople considering a move into sales: if you're motivated by the chase, enjoy solving people's problems, and find satisfaction in knowing your work directly impacts the bottom line, sales might be for you. But if you're just looking for an easier path with less physical labor, think again—great salesmanship is mentally demanding work that requires constant follow-through and resilience. Topics Covered: Why tradespeople are often critical of sales and the misconceptions about the profession The difference between "good" and "bad" salespeople and the moral use of sales skills Essential traits for successful residential HVAC salespeople, including product knowledge and emotional agility How commercial B2B sales differs from residential—less transactional, more relational The critical importance of follow-through, responsiveness, and keeping promises in account management Why sales serves as the essential "oil in the machine" that prevents business breakdowns The role of salespeople in managing customer expectations and protecting production teams The unsexy reality of sales work: constant uncomfortable conversations and problem-chasing When entertaining clients (golf, lunches) is appropriate versus when it becomes buying work Advice for tradespeople considering transitioning into sales roles   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool. Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 7th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Elena Verna is the head of growth at Lovable, the leading AI-powered app builder that hit $200 million in annual recurring revenue in under a year with just 100 employees. In this record fourth appearance on the podcast, Elena shares how the traditional growth playbook has been completely rewritten for AI companies. She explains why Lovable focuses on innovation over optimization, how they've shifted from activation to building new features, and why giving away their product for free has become their most powerful growth strategy.We discuss:1. Why 60% to 70% of traditional growth tactics no longer apply in AI2. Why you have to re-find product-market fit every 3 months3. The specific growth tactics driving Lovable's unprecedented growth4. Why giving away product is a growth strategy that beats paid ads5. “Minimum lovable product” as the new standard (not minimum viable product)6. Why activation now belongs to product teams, not growth teams7. Whether you should join an AI startup (honest tradeoffs)—Brought to you by:WorkOS—Modern identity platform for B2B SaaS, free up to 1 million MAUsVercel—Your collaborative AI assistant to design, iterate, and scale full-stack applications for the webPersona—A global leader in digital identity verification—Transcript: ⁠https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-new-ai-growth-playbook-for-2026-elena-verna⁠—My biggest takeaways (for paid newsletter subscribers): ⁠https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/i/181207556/my-biggest-takeaways-from-this-conversation⁠—Where to find Elena Verna:• X: https://x.com/elenaverna• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaverna• Newsletter: https://www.elenaverna.com—Where to find Lenny:• Newsletter: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com• X: https://twitter.com/lennysan• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennyrachitsky/—In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introduction to Elena Verna(05:19) The scale and growth of Lovable(08:55) Confidence in Lovable as a business(12:17) Retention at Lovable(15:02) Lovable's unique growth levers(28:13) The role of marketing in Lovable's success(38:09) Launching new features(40:59) Hiring and team dynamics(43:17) The value of vibe coding(49:46) The importance of community(51:47) Giving away your product for free(56:26) Tripling their company size(01:00:23) Product-market-fit challenges(01:08:50) Advice for joining AI companies(01:12:00) Work-life balance(01:15:20) What it's like to work at Lovable(01:19:45) Women in tech(01:25:29) Final thoughts and lightning round—Referenced:• Elena Verna on how B2B growth is changing, product-led growth, product-led sales, why you should go freemium not trial, what features to make free, and much more: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/elena-verna-on-why-every-company• The ultimate guide to product-led sales | Elena Verna: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-ultimate-guide-to-product-led• 10 growth tactics that never work | Elena Verna (Amplitude, Miro, Dropbox, SurveyMonkey): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/10-growth-tactics-that-never-work-elena-verna• Lovable: https://lovable.dev• Building Lovable: $10M ARR in 60 days with 15 people | Anton Osika (co-founder and CEO): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/building-lovable-anton-osika• Stripe: https://stripe.com• What differentiates the highest-performing product teams | John Cutler (Amplitude, The Beautiful Mess): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/what-differentiates-the-highest-performing• How to win in the AI era: Ship a feature every week, embrace technical debt, ruthlessly cut scope, and create magic your competitors can't copy | Gaurav Misra (CEO and co-founder of Captions): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/how-to-win-in-the-ai-era-gaurav-misra• “Dumbest idea I've heard” to $100M ARR: Inside the rise of Gamma | Grant Lee (CEO): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/how-50-people-built-a-profitable-ai-unicorn• Eric Ries on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eries• Elena's post on LinkedIn about Lovable Missions: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/elenaverna_everythingispossible-lovableway-activity-7401627519646474242-hn6e• SheBuilds: https://shebuilds.lovable.app• Shopify + Lovable: https://lovable.dev/shopify• The Product-Market Fit Treadmill: Why every AI company is sprinting just to stay in place: https://www.elenaverna.com/p/the-product-market-fit-treadmill• Cursor: https://cursor.com• The rise of Cursor: The $300M ARR AI tool that engineers can't stop using | Michael Truell (co-founder and CEO): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-rise-of-cursor-michael-truell• Unorthodox frameworks for growing your product, career, and impact | Bangaly Kaba (YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Instacart): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/frameworks-for-growing-your-career-bangaly-kaba• The adjacent user: https://brianbalfour.com/quick-takes/the-adjacent-user• Granola: https://www.granola.ai• Wispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai• I'm worried about women in tech: https://www.elenaverna.com/p/im-worried-about-women-in-tech• Slack founder: Mental models for building products people love ft. Stewart Butterfield: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/slack-founder-stewart-butterfield—Production and marketing by https://penname.co/. For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email podcast@lennyrachitsky.com.—Lenny may be an investor in the companies discussed. To hear more, visit www.lennysnewsletter.com

This Week In Startups is made possible by:LinkedIn Ads- http://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartupsSquarespace - https://squarespace.com/twistEnterpret - http://Enterpret.com/twistToday's show: How do top tech CEOs hire? AI has thrown out the playbook for getting hired — so what are the most innovative firms looking for? Anyone can learn any skill and automate much of it, what is to be valued in the modern labor market?On our first AI Roundtable episode of TWiST, Jason is joined by three top tech CEOs: Wade Foster (Zapier), Mikey Schulman (Suno), and Ali Ansari (Micro1). They each give their perspective on the tech talent wars and how to get hired in 2026.The resounding answer on how to get a job? JUST START DOING THE JOB! If you want to be a designer, start sending designs to companies you want to be hired by — don't just sit around waiting to be hired. The biggest value you can bring is a “high agency” mindset to your company and the role. Show you get after it!They are also hitting on:- How AI is getting used to make music today- The tech industry's communication problem- How to raise kids in the age of AITimestamps:(00:00) It's our first ever “This Week in AI” Roundtable, and we've got an amazing panel(05:50) How Meta and OpenAI skew how everyone thinks about compensation(09:37) The importance of looking beyond SF for talent(10:24) LinkedIn Ads: Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. Launch your first campaign and get $250 FREE when you spend at least $250. Go to http://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups to claim your credit.(14:39) Is AI making more people seek out developer jobs?(18:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://squarespace.com/twist(19:36) When design becomes its own bottleneck… and some workarounds.(22:37) It's not how much you know, it's how adaptable you are(24:10) The best way to get hired: just start doing the job(30:09) Why Ali says we're entering the "Post-Training"(31:34) Enterpret - Enterpret turns feedback noise into Customer Intelligence, so your team knows exactly what to fix and build next. Head to http://Enterpret.com/twist to book a demo and see it in action.(33:32) Understanding the value of your company's data and using it to get better outputs(41:14) Mikey calls Suno the “GLP-1s of the music industry”: everyone uses it but no one admits it(46:39) Mikey Talks break out AI artists like Xania Monet(49:32) Questions raised about how AI will effect job markets(54:43) How AI and robotics will unlock new jobs and opportunities(58:48) Possible solutions to the AI and automation question.(01:04:03) Technology's communication problem and how to fix it.(01:05:24) Are people replacing their friends with AI?(01:08:11) How CEOs are thinking about raising young kids in the world of AI.(01:12:21) Lightning round on AI agents, workflows vs. agents(01:16:49) Trapped value in sales calls, questions, company meetings that are unlocked by AI(01:22:10) How Ali pitched the LAUNCH team outside of a Jeni's Ice Cream storeSubscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.comSubscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcpFollow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonThank you to our partners:(10:24) LinkedIn Ads: Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. Launch your first campaign and get $250 FREE when you spend at least $250. Go to http://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups to claim your credit.(18:36) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://squarespace.com/twist(31:34) Enterpret - Enterpret turns feedback noise into Customer Intelligence, so your team knows exactly what to fix and build next. Head to http://Enterpret.com/twist to book a demo and see it in action.

Shopware has been a great partner to the show for a couple years and it is always great to have the GM/President Jason Nyus on to explain why B2B is so much tougher, but bigger for ecommerce! Mr. Nyus teaches Summer Jubilier and Scott Ohsman why Shopware is so big in Germany and how it is growing fast here in the US. What Shopware does that is so different and how it works with ERP systems along with carving out a great niche in regulated industries. We talk about how there could be an AI store of agents and why Summer must have one immediately. We play the "NAME THAT ACRONYMY" game which turns out to be both lame and entertaining. Stay on for the bloopers at the end! Enjoy Always Off Brand is always a Laugh & Learn!    FEEDSPOT TOP 10 Retail Podcast! https://podcast.feedspot.com/retail_podcasts/?feedid=5770554&_src=f2_featured_email Guest: Jason Nyhus LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonnyhus/ Shopware Site: https://www.shopware.com/en/ QUICKFIRE Info:   Website: https://www.quickfirenow.com/ Email the Show: info@quickfirenow.com  Talk to us on Social: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quickfireproductions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quickfire__/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@quickfiremarketing LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/quickfire-productions-llc/about/ Sports podcast Scott has been doing since 2017, Scott & Tim Sports Show part of Somethin About Nothin:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/somethin-about-nothin/id1306950451 HOSTS: Summer Jubelirer has been in digital commerce and marketing for over 17 years. After spending many years working for digital and ecommerce agencies working with multi-million dollar brands and running teams of Account Managers, she is now the Amazon Manager at OLLY PBC.   LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerjubelirer/   Scott Ohsman has been working with brands for over 30 years in retail, online and has launched over 200 brands on Amazon. Mr. Ohsman has been managing brands on Amazon for 19yrs. Owning his own sales and marketing agency in the Pacific NW, is now VP of Digital Commerce for Quickfire LLC. Producer and Co-Host for the top 5 retail podcast, Always Off Brand. He also produces the Brain Driven Brands Podcast featuring leading Consumer Behaviorist Sarah Levinger. Scott has been a featured speaker at national trade shows and has developed distribution strategies for many top brands. LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-ohsman-861196a6/   Hayley Brucker has been working in retail and with Amazon for years. Hayley has extensive experience in digital advertising, both seller and vendor central on Amazon. Hayley lives in North Carolina.  LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-brucker-1945bb229/   Huge thanks to Cytrus our show theme music "Office Party" available wherever you get your music. Check them out here: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/cytrusmusic Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cytrusmusic/ Twitter https://twitter.com/cytrusmusic SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6VrNLN6Thj1iUMsiL4Yt5q?si=MeRsjqYfQiafl0f021kHwg APPLE MUSIC https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cytrus/1462321449   "Always Off Brand" is part of the Quickfire Podcast Network and produced by Quickfire LLC.  

How do you go from newsroom bloopers to leading national brand strategy? In Part 2 of our conversation with Stephen Johnson, we dive into the moments that shaped his mindset: From losing a news package on deadline to designing fish-themed fantasy football merch for charity. Stephen opens up about self-taught creativity, pushing the boundaries of “safe” marketing, and how he balances compliance with storytelling. He also shares why industry leadership isn't about flashy promises, it's about consistency, communication, and delivering on what you said you would. Whether you're in B2B marketing, managing rapid growth, or just trying to keep your creative spark alive, Stephen's story is packed with practical knowledge. Plus, we settle the ultimate Rockford debate: Uncle Nick's or Portillo's?

Your brand isn't losing to competitors, it's drowning in “helpful” content no one remembers. In an AI-everywhere world, bland is broken and volume is just a faster way to disappear.If LLMs can write what you ship in 10 seconds, why would a buyer choose you?This week, Sylvia LePoidevin delivers the reality check B2B marketers have been dodging: content volume is a commodity, brand is the moat. We dig into how AI-native teams actually work (tastemakers and operators), why “helpful” guides are table stakes, and how human stories, conviction, and point of view become the only defensible edge in a world where production is free. We also get into:Content brands > corporate blogs: Building something people follow, not just something you publish.Helpful is dead: Why every piece needs a person, a story, and a spine—or it's AI fodder.Anchors and distribution: Human-made “anchor” content, AI-powered repurposing, zero soul lost.Manifestos, not messaging decks: Founder-fueled conviction as the real brand operating system.Brand as last moat: Community, ecosystem marketing, and taste as the next-gen B2B unfair advantage.

Looking for B2B advertising on our podcast for the coffee industry: support@mapitforward.org or DM us here https://www.instagram.com/mapitforward.coffee/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is episode four of a 5-part podcast series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward, hosted by Lee Safar, featuring first-time guest Greg Oddo.Greg is a weather strategist who specialises in coffee for Sucafina. In this series, Lee and Greg discuss the role that weather is playing in the coffee market.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Impact of Weather on the Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/psIRwab0jTo2. Connecting The Price of Coffee to the Weather - https://youtu.be/uHUduEMnnXI3. Coffee Industry Adapting to Changing Weather - https://youtu.be/1Tiktg6lenM4. Open Sourced Weather Data for Coffee - https://youtu.be/zAaLHDjNScs5. Challenges Ahead for Coffee and Weather - https://youtu.be/mFsN_Vleq3IIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Greg discuss the critical role of open source data in the coffee industry. They focus on data transparency, specifically in Brazil's weather reporting, and the necessity of self-education in accessing free available data. Greg emphasizes the importance of observational data quality and transparency to avoid market manipulation and improve decision-making for coffee farmers and businesses. Additionally, the episode highlights upcoming changes for Map It Forward in 2026, including the introduction of multi-language support and B2B advertising opportunities. Join us as we delve into why open source data is vital for accurate weather predictions and market strategies in the coffee sector.Connect with Greg Oddo and Sucafina here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-oddo-3b252a34/https://sucafina.com/https://www.instagram.com/sucafina_northamerica/Find weather data about Brazil here: https://bdmep.inmet.gov.br/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

Send us a textWant these insights and more in person? Join us in Las Vegas, January 13 - 14 2026 for Creator Economy Live West and use code CELPOD20 at checkout!This week Keith & Brendan are joined by Rob Mayhew, the creator who's become the unofficial spokesperson for agency life, to talk about turning industry satire into real brand value, making the leap to full-time creator, and why B2B brands are finally embracing creators who actually get the business. Expect sharp insights, creator economy data you need to know, and a rapid-fire rundown of what's shaping influence right now. 

#312 | In this episode, Udi Ledergor joins Dave to break down the ideas behind his new book, Courageous Marketing, and why most B2B marketing fails because it plays it safe. He also shares his journey from marketer #1 to CMO to Chief Evangelist at Gong, where he led category creation, brand, and marketing through massive scale. They unpack how Gong built a brand that actually stood out, what it means to punch above your weight as a B2B marketer, and how to think about brand ROI without fake dashboards.Timestamps(00:00) - – Meet Udi and his path into marketing (08:16) - – Early career lessons and building marketing from zero (15:16) - – How Gong found product-market fit and nailed positioning early (19:26) - – Courageous Marketing: why Udi wrote it and what it really means (23:16) - – Brand first: personality, positioning, then visuals (28:20) - – Campaigns that punched above their weight (billboards, experiments, perception hacks) (35:10) - – Proving brand impact: soft ROI, pipeline, and exec buy-in (47:40) - – The future: product-led marketing, AI, and courageous teams Join 50,0000 people who get our Exit Five Newsletter here: https://www.exitfive.com/newsletterLearn more about Exit Five's private marketing community: https://www.exitfive.com/***Today's episode is brought to you by Knak.Email (in my humble opinion) is the still the greatest marketing channel of all-time.It's the only way you can truly “own” your audience.But when it comes to building the emails - if you've ever tried building an email in an enterprise marketing automation platform, you know how painful it can be. Templates are too rigid, editing code can break things and the whole process just takes forever. That's why we love Knak here at Exit Five. Knak a no-code email platform that makes it easy to create on-brand, high-performing emails - without the bottlenecks.Frustrated by clunky email builders? You need Knak.Tired of ‘hoping' the email you sent looks good across all devices? Just test in Knak first.Big team making it hard to collaborate and get approvals? Definitely Knak.And the best part? Everything takes a fraction of the time.See Knak in action at knak.com/exit-five. Or just let them know you heard about Knak on Exit Five.***Thanks to my friends at hatch.fm for producing this episode and handling all of the Exit Five podcast production.They give you unlimited podcast editing and strategy for your B2B podcast.Get unlimited podcast editing and on-demand strategy for one low monthly cost. Just upload your episode, and they take care of the rest.Visit hatch.fm to learn more

All sorts of setbacks can come up during your career. You narrowly miss landing your dream job. You get put on a project you don't love. You have a horrible manager. You go through a round of budget cuts. You have a family emergency come up. You have a sudden health issue. Or you realise you've taken the wrong job. We all experience disappointments, stressors, or unexpected twists and turns in our career that test our resilience, patience, and fortitude. Career setbacks can't be avoided. No matter how well you plan things out, stuff comes up, and your ability to navigate and manage those setbacks will make the difference between you getting stuck in a rut or bouncing back to find a better way forward. In this episode of the Career Relaunch® podcast, Ben Kuhl, a sports and events hospitality management professional turned woodworking, shelf-making craftsman shares his thoughts on his shift from white-collar to blue-collar work, and I also share some thoughts on the hidden blessings behind career setbacks.