Podcasts about saas metrics

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're diving deep into the next generation of accounting software with Nicolas Kopp, CEO and founder of Rillet. Nicolas shares his journey from building a fully regulated bank to launching Rillet—an AI-first ERP platform designed to take on industry staples like QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, and Sage Intacct. With a background grounded in finance and accounting, Nicolas brings a fresh perspective to a market that's long been dominated by legacy solutions. We'll discuss how Rillet is shaking things up for asset-light businesses in SaaS, AI, professional services, and fintech, and why the platform's robust multi-entity, multi-currency capabilities have attracted mid-market companies ready to graduate from more traditional tools. Nicolas also sheds light on the challenges of building highly regulated, mission-critical systems from scratch, what's behind their rapid customer adoption, and how an AI-native approach is changing expectations for accounting software. From funding milestones and his recent $25 million Series A, to lessons learned about product-market fit and the nuances of scaling go-to-market through channels and inbound demand, Nicolas gives us the behind-the-scenes look at Rillet's rise. If you're curious about the future of financial software—or when it's really time to make the leap from QuickBooks to a next-gen ERP—this conversation is for you. Let's get started! Show Notes: 00:00 "Comprehensive ERP System Advantages" 06:02 Business Growth from Transition Points 07:28 Streamlined ERP Solutions 12:37 Investment Insights: Backgrounds and Success 15:53 "Choosing Between Innovative ERP Solutions" 16:58 Rapid Success in Fundraising 22:15 Building Trust in B2B Sales 25:57 NPS and ARR Prioritized Over Retention 27:54 Focus on KPIs and AI Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/rillet-raises-25-million-in-series-a https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/rillet-raises-13-5-million-in-funding Nicolas Kopp's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-kopp/ Rillet's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/team-rillet/ Rillet's Website: https://www.rillet.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Figma is a web-based collaborative design platform used by product designers, UX/UI teams and developers. They also just recently filed their S-1.During this episode, Dave "CAC" Kellogg and Ray "Growth" Rike discuss several aspects of the S-1 including:Customer count & revenue by customer segment (< $10,000 ARR, > $10,000 ARR, > $100,000 ARR, > $1M ARR)Net Revenue (Dollar) Retention Rate Calculation (132%)Gross Revenue (Dollar) Retention Rate Calculation (96%)Rule of 40 = 79 (higher than Palantir)Impact of the Adobe acquisition collapse - an enterprise valuation perspectiveInspiration for the discussion and a few data points beyond what was in the Figma S-1 included:Jamin Ball - Clouded Judgement NewsletterOnly CFO NewsletterCJ Gustafson - Mostly Metrics NewsletterIf you are interested in SaaS companies, S-1 filings and SaaS Metrics such as Net Revenue Retention, Gross Revenue Retention, and Rule of 40 - those metrics that impact enterprise value - this episode is for you!!!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, host Ben Murray sits down with Andrew Black, CEO of Kovr, and Sri Iyer, the company's founder and CTO. Kovr is shaking up the world of cybersecurity compliance, helping organizations dramatically speed up the process of achieving certifications like FedRAMP, HIPAA, and others—using the latest breakthroughs in generative AI. Andrew and Sri bring fascinating perspectives, drawing from deep experience in tech, government, and startups, including previous roles at Amazon Web Services, PwC, Lockheed, and Gartner. They talk about the pain points that tech companies and government agencies face when trying to deploy secure software in regulated environments, and how Kovr can cut compliance timelines from years to minutes. If you're curious about go-to-market strategies for AI-first startups, lessons learned from early fundraising, or how to build a SaaS business in a highly regulated market, this episode is packed with candid insights and actionable advice. Tune in to hear how Kovr is empowering innovators to get their products into the hands of customers faster, with less headache—and what's next for this fast-moving team. Show Notes: 00:00 "Compliance Challenges in Software Deployment" 03:43 Streamlining Compliance with AI 06:37 Target Customers: CISOs to DevOps Teams 11:11 Pursuing a $13B Market Opportunity 13:03 AI Traction and Trust Challenges 17:38 Navigating VC Relationships and Fit 20:17 Unlimited-Use Enterprise SaaS Licensing 23:48 Simplifying Gen AI Sales Model 28:26 Efficient AI: Smaller Models, Big Savings 30:25 "Focus on Sales Cycle Days" 33:44 "LinkedIn Profile: Kovr AI" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/kovr-ai-raises-3-6-million-in-seed-round Andrew Black's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-black-5435b67/ Sri Iyer's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sri-iyer/ Kovr AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kovrai/ Kovr AI's Website: https://kovr.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're excited to speak with Nilo Pirttijarvi, co-founder of Inven—a rapidly growing AI-powered deal sourcing tool making waves in the M&A world. Nilo takes us through his journey from a background in consulting and investment banking to launching his first startup, inspired by the pain points he and his co-founders experienced firsthand in finding and analyzing acquisition targets. In this episode, you'll hear how Inven is helping private equity, investment banks, and corporate M&A teams supercharge their deal pipelines—especially when it comes to those hard-to-find, niche targets in the middle market. Nilo shares candid insights about Inven's rapid growth, fundraising journey (including a recent €11.2 million Series A), and the lessons learned when building both relationships and ARR to attract top investors. We also dive into the startup's operational metrics, go-to-market strategies, pricing models, and what's next for this ambitious international team. If you're interested in SaaS growth, fundraising, or the future of AI in deal sourcing, you won't want to miss this conversation! Show Notes: 00:00 Streamlining Company Analysis Process 06:20 Rapid Startup Growth Pathway 08:16 Relationships Over ARR in Investment 12:00 "Classic Global Sales Model" 13:59 M&A Tool User Variability 17:54 Competitive Multi-Tool Market Strategy Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/inven-raises-11-2-million-in-series-a Niilo Pirttijarvi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niilo-pirttijarvi/ Inven AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inven-ai/ Inven AI's Website: https://www.inven.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

The definition of Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) has never been standardized - but in an era of variable pricing models such as Usage-Based Pricing, the innovative approaches to calculating and reporting ARR continue to evolve. During this episode, Dave "CAC" Kellogg and Ray "Growth" Rike cover the topic guided by a few recently industry influencer posts - coupled with their own experiences including:Ben Murray, The SaaS CFO - Please Don't Tell me ARR is DeadCJ Gustafson - How Public Companies Report ARRNotable, Glenn Solomon and Laura Hamilton. - Is ARR Dead or Just Evolving?Ben Murray, The SaaS CFO - Defining and Reporting ARR in a Variable Pricing EnvironmentDave Kellogg - SaaS Metrics Palooza '24 - The Impact of AI on SaaS Metrics (especially ARR)If you are interested in the topic of how companies using a variable pricing model are calculating and reporting ARR - this is a must listen episode and provides links to some of the most recent thinking on the topic!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Katherine Tobias, the dynamic co-founder and CEO of InsightWise. Katherine shares her inspiring journey from her early days consulting at KPMG and working in government to leading one of Australia's fastest-growing startups. Driven by her passion for delivering real-world impact and navigating mountains of qualitative data, Katherine reveals how these experiences led her to launch InsightWise—a groundbreaking AI platform tailored for consultants and strategy teams. Tune in as Katherine dives into the realities of startup life, fundraising, and what it takes to disrupt the consulting industry with innovative technology. She opens up about empowering both global enterprises and agile boutique firms with tools that turn unstructured data into actionable insights, while also building a tight-knit team with big ambitions. Katherine's story is a masterclass in navigating career pivots, seizing opportunities, and harnessing AI to drive business transformation. Whether you're a SaaS founder, consultant, or tech enthusiast, you won't want to miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable advice, honest reflections, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to scale a modern software company. Hit play and get inspired! Show Notes: 00:00 From Oxford to Global Startup Success 03:12 Insightwise: AI Hub for Consultants 07:20 AI-Driven Data Synthesis Solutions 10:50 "Building Relationships in Consulting" 15:30 "First-Time Founder Fundraising Journey" 16:32 "Strategic Capital for Business Growth" 19:58 "Insightwise AI Free Trial" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/insightwise-closes-1-million-in-funding Katherine Tobias' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-tobias-40857789/ InsightWise's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insightwise-ai/ InsightWise's Website: https://www.insightwise.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Tagg Hurtubise is the Director of Marketing at Benchmarkit, where he specializes in B2B SaaS growth strategy, product marketing, and user experience. He has a strong track record of driving innovation through strategic initiatives, including leading SaaS Metrics Palooza and organizing executive events that bring together top industry leaders. With expertise in UX/UI design, digital transformation, and data-driven marketing, Tagg focuses on building strong relationships and elevating brand visibility. A graduate of San Diego State University with additional studies in Luxury Brand Management from the Paris School of Business, he is passionate about scaling high-impact marketing strategies in the SaaS space. Website: https://www.benchmarkit.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tagghurtubise/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@benchmarkitai Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benchmarkitai    Camela Thompson is a fractional marketing advisor known for blending data-driven strategy with empathetic, collaborative leadership. Based in Seattle, she brings over 15 years of experience in Revenue Operations, having worked at successful tech startups including Qumulo, Extrahop, and CDK Global. Camela transitioned into marketing leadership as VP of Marketing at CaliberMind, where she positioned the brand as a trusted authority for data-driven marketers. Her customer-first approach and deep understanding of growth marketing make her a sought-after advisor in the B2B tech space. Website: https://www.camelathompsoncreative.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camela-thompson/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camela.thompson/    In this episode, we explore B2B SaaS marketing strategies and AI impact and dive into event highlights and AI marketing tools with experts Tagg and Camela.    Apply to join our marketing mastermind group: https://notypicalmoments.typeform.com/to/hWLDNgjz   Follow No Typical Moments at: Website: https://notypicalmoments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-typical-moments-llc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4G7csw9j7zpjdASvpMzqUA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notypicalmoments Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NTMoments

Tagg Hurtubise is the Director of Marketing at Benchmarkit, where he specializes in B2B SaaS growth strategy, product marketing, and user experience. He has a strong track record of driving innovation through strategic initiatives, including leading SaaS Metrics Palooza and organizing executive events that bring together top industry leaders. With expertise in UX/UI design, digital transformation, and data-driven marketing, Tagg focuses on building strong relationships and elevating brand visibility. A graduate of San Diego State University with additional studies in Luxury Brand Management from the Paris School of Business, he is passionate about scaling high-impact marketing strategies in the SaaS space. Website: https://www.benchmarkit.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tagghurtubise/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@benchmarkitai Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benchmarkitai    Camela Thompson is a fractional marketing advisor known for blending data-driven strategy with empathetic, collaborative leadership. Based in Seattle, she brings over 15 years of experience in Revenue Operations, having worked at successful tech startups including Qumulo, Extrahop, and CDK Global. Camela transitioned into marketing leadership as VP of Marketing at CaliberMind, where she positioned the brand as a trusted authority for data-driven marketers. Her customer-first approach and deep understanding of growth marketing make her a sought-after advisor in the B2B tech space. Website: https://www.camelathompsoncreative.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camela-thompson/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camela.thompson/    In this episode, we explore B2B SaaS marketing strategies and AI impact and dive into event highlights and AI marketing tools with experts Tagg and Camela.    Apply to join our marketing mastermind group: https://notypicalmoments.typeform.com/to/hWLDNgjz   Follow No Typical Moments at: Website: https://notypicalmoments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-typical-moments-llc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4G7csw9j7zpjdASvpMzqUA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notypicalmoments Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NTMoments

In episode #286 of SaaS Metrics School, Ben Murray breaks down one of the most common — and costly — mistakes SaaS founders and CFOs make when building their Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) schedules: netting contraction and expansion. This seemingly small error can break your ability to calculate key SaaS metrics like Gross Revenue Retention (GRR) and Net Revenue Retention (NRR). What You'll Learn: The essential structure of an accurate MRR waterfall schedule Why separating expansion, contraction, and churn is crucial for calculating SaaS metrics How to calculate GRR and NRR using distinct MRR layers Why trailing 3- and 6-month annualized retention rates offer deeper insights Pro tips on segmenting your MRR by product, ICP, or geography Who This Is For: SaaS founders, CFOs, FP&A leaders, and revenue ops teams looking to improve their SaaS financial reporting and ensure clean, actionable SaaS metrics that stand up to investor scrutiny. Resources Mentioned: Join Ben's private SaaS metrics community: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Subscribe to Ben's newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page Free SaaS Metrics Tools & Templates at TheSaaSCFO.com Enjoying the show? Please rate and review the podcast — it helps more SaaS professionals discover how to build better businesses with metrics that matter.

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Austin Carroll, the dynamic founder and CEO of Warrant. Drawing from her deep roots in marketing and product management at household names like Capital One, Mercury, and Brex, Austin shares how real-world challenges navigating regulatory approvals inspired her to launch Warrant—a platform harnessing AI to automate and streamline marketing compliance for the financial services industry. Austin highlights the complexities and pitfalls of adhering to rapidly evolving federal, state, and local regulations in sectors like mortgage, insurance, and banking. She explains how Warrant checks marketing materials for compliance, helping companies of all sizes—from nimble startups to large enterprises—avoid costly missteps and accelerate their go-to-market strategies. Her journey provides invaluable insight into the needs of modern fintech marketers and compliance teams. Beyond the tech, Austin opens up about her path as a female founder, candidly discussing the fundraising process, her unique go-to-market approach, and the lessons learned from early customer traction. Whether you're passionate about fintech, compliance, or entrepreneurship, this conversation offers a compelling look at the future of AI-powered marketing compliance and the vision of a founder determined to solve one of the industry's most pressing challenges. Show Notes: 00:00 Streamlining Crisis Communication Compliance 06:09 Regulatory Challenges in Financial Compliance 07:12 Targeting Small to Mid-Market Clients 10:59 Strategic Market Engagement Approach 16:57 Entrepreneurship: Play to Your Strengths 17:51 Conversation-Driven Fundraising Strategy 21:40 Tracking Key Business Metrics 25:37 "Sign Up for Newsletter Now" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/warrant-raises-720k-in-pre-seed-round Austin Carroll's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austincarroll/ Warrant's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/warrant/ Warrant's Website: https://www.hellowarrant.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In episode #285 of SaaS Metrics School, Ben Murray dives into one of the most overlooked levers in SaaS financial performance—G&A (General & Administrative) spend. How much should you really be spending on back office functions like finance, HR, legal, and IT? Using data from Benchmarkit.AI, Ben walks through G&A as a percent of revenue across ARR stages—from startups under $1M to companies exceeding $100M. He also explains how operating leverage is created through back office efficiency and why using benchmarks segmented by ARR is crucial in SaaS metrics analysis. What You'll Learn: Why aggregate SaaS benchmarks are dangerous G&A benchmarks by ARR segment (top quartile vs. median) The role of operating leverage in SaaS profitability How to evaluate your own back office spend using metrics Actionable targets for G&A as a percent of revenue SaaS Metrics Covered: G&A % of Revenue Operating Leverage Opex Profile by ARR Benchmarking by ARR vs. ACV Resources Mentioned: Benchmarkit.ai Join Ben's SaaS Metrics community for webinars, templates, and live sessions: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page

In episode #284, let's break down AI ARR. As artificial intelligence transforms SaaS business models, a new metric is gaining traction: AI ARR (Artificial Intelligence Annual Recurring Revenue). But what exactly is AI ARR, how do public SaaS companies define it, and why should private SaaS operators care? In this episode, Ben Murray dives deep into how companies like Verint Systems are reporting AI ARR in their earnings and press releases. Ben breaks down the nuances of these definitions, the implications for SaaS valuation, and what founders, CFOs, and GTM teams need to know to stay ahead of the curve. Key Topics Covered What Is AI ARR? Understand how public companies define AI-based recurring revenue and what makes it distinct from traditional ARR or subscription ARR. Case Study: Verint's AI ARR Disclosure Learn how Verint, a customer and communication automation platform, separates AI ARR from Subscription ARR, and why AI now accounts for 50% of its recurring revenue. Run Rate vs. Recognized Revenue Explore the concept of “annualized quarterly run rate” and why some AI ARR definitions include overages and signed (but not yet active) SaaS contracts. Why AI ARR Matters for SaaS Metrics & Board Reporting Discover how AI ARR can become a key growth driver metric, especially for AI-first SaaS platforms or tools with significant AI adoption. Benchmarking and Financial Transparency Trends Understand why SaaS companies are simplifying metric reporting and focusing on high-signal KPIs like AI ARR for investors and stakeholders. Who Should Listen This episode is a must-listen for: SaaS founders and CEOs scaling AI-powered platforms CFOs and FP&A teams defining KPIs for board decks SaaS investors tracking AI monetization trends RevOps and metrics leaders modernizing dashboards Anyone serious about becoming a SaaS metrics expert Why This Episode Matters As SaaS businesses race to integrate and monetize AI, understanding how to measure, disclose, and leverage AI ARR could be your edge in strategic planning, fundraising, or M&A. SaaS Metrics School isn't just about numbers—it's about empowering you to lead with data. Subscribe & Follow Never miss an insight from the top SaaS metrics podcast. Join our SaaS community. https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, I'm excited to sit down with Adam Chrigström, founder and CEO of Big Audience Machine (BAM). Adam's journey has taken him from studying economics to a successful run in brand marketing and research, leading to the launch and acquisition of Play Pilot—a streaming guide that reached over six million monthly users. After serving as Head of AI at the acquiring fund, Adam launched Big Audience Machine, a cutting-edge content marketing platform designed to help companies turn strategy and deep brand understanding into effective, multi-channel content. Adam shares what inspired him to build BAM, lessons he's learned from pivoting in the creative and SaaS industries, and practical advice for founders navigating early-stage growth, team building, and fundraising in today's AI-driven market. We'll talk about how BAM is helping both agencies and in-house teams, what they've learned from working closely with pilot customers, and what's coming next as they prepare for an exciting public launch. Whether you're a founder, marketer, or just looking to glimpse the future of content and branding, tune in for Adam Chrigström's story and insights! Show Notes: 00:00 Pivot from Pre-Production Platform 05:46 "BAM: Streamlined Content Marketing Platform" 07:35 Effective AI-Driven Content Strategy 11:10 AI's Limitations in Brand Intuition 14:57 "Early-Stage Branding Strategy Development" 20:40 Early-Stage Product and Customer Engagement 21:54 "Data Challenges and Future Plans" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/big-audience-machine-raises-350k-in-funding Adam Chrigström's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-chrigstr%C3%B6m/ Big Audience Machine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-audience-machine/ Big Audience Machine's Website: https://www.bigaudiencemachine.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

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

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

Dave "CAC" Kellogg and Ray "Growth" Rike recently did a LIVE episode of SaaS Talk with the Metrics Brothers at the Baker Tilly Technology Finance Symposium in San Francisco. The topic of their discussion was aligning Finance and the Go-to-Market functions and included how SaaS metrics can be used as a core "alignment" strategy. During this "extended" version of SaaS Talk with the Metrics Brothers, Ray and Dave discussed several different strategies to align Finance and the GTM functions, including:What is alignmentWhat isn't alignmentReal-life stories on what misalignment looks likePutting "Strategy" back into Strategic PlanningStrategic Planning Frameworks to considerSaaS Performance Metrics Framework to considerIf you are a CFO or GTM executive leader - this live conversation is full of interesting ideas, experiences and of course a few attempts at humor by the Metrics Brothers!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Net Customer Base Expansion = (Expansion ARR - Churned ARR) which helps SaaS companies to understand how the existing customer base is impacting ARR growth excluding the impact of new logo customer ARR. Why not just use Net Revenue Retention? CAC and Growth dive deep into this SaaS metric including:Calculation formula for Net Customer Base Expansion (NCBE)How is NCBE different from Net Revenue Retention (NRR)What is CAC's definition of lazy NRRCohort vs Segment Calculations - what is the differenceWhat is a good Net Customer Base Expansion RateWhen and where does the Net Customer Base Expansion provide the most valueIf you are responsible for impacting how ARR grows at existing customers in a B2B SaaS company - this episode may provides some new insights and maybe a new metric to add to your SaaS Metrics glossary!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In episode #263, I address the building blocks to your financial transparency. Tired of running financially blind? Know that you can do more with your data? - Why do we need this? - Chart of accounts - 4 key data sources - SaaS P&L - Technology - Training Free training on my process: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/zz3ZR2WL/checkout In-depth course on SaaS Metrics: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation Live course on SaaS metrics: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-course-community

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

In episode #259 I address the data and metrics required to scale your SaaS business. It's no accident when SaaS companies achieve big ARR numbers. - Growth - Retention - Margins - Financial Profile - Efficiency Free training January 10th on my metrics playbook: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/pl/2148613448 SaaS Metrics Foundation course in February: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new

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

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

In this engaging episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, the FP&A Guy, sits down with Mark Hansen, CFO of Entrata. Their conversation explores financial planning and analysis (FP&A), strategic business decision-making, and the evolving role of finance teams in organizations. This episode provides valuable insights into how FP&A professionals can align metrics, foster relationships, and utilize data to empower strategic growth.Mark Hansen brings a wealth of experience as the CFO of Entrata, a comprehensive ERP platform for the multifamily housing industry. Prior to this role, Mark held pivotal finance positions at Pluralsight and Skullcandy, leading finance teams through periods of significant growth. A CPA with a master's in accounting from the University of Utah, Mark combines technical expertise with a strategic vision, making him a thought leader in the financial industry.Expect to LearnUnderstanding the transition from accurate forecasting to strategic decision-making.Why FP&A is positioned as the "center of the universe" for organizational data.Practical advice on aligning and rolling forward metrics to track business performance.How to leverage diverse experiences (the "bingo card" approach) to achieve career growth.Insights into hiring, mentoring, and fostering curiosity and technical skills within finance teams.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Understanding unit economics, gross margin, and other granular financial details helps inform better business decisions." - Mark Hansen"Understanding SEC reporting is like leveling up in financial knowledge. It's the major leagues of financial reporting." - Mark Hansen"FP&A teams of the future will not just focus on budgeting and forecasting but also on data analytics and business modeling." - Mark HansenIn this insightful episode, Mark shares valuable advice on career development, stressing the importance of building strong relationships, acquiring diverse skills, and being proactive in one's career progression. Mark's focus on curiosity, technical skills, and business partnering provides a roadmap for any finance professional looking to elevate their impact.Plan Smarter with Workday:Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguyFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Mark:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hansen-7b79045/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling

Bobby Pinero, the co-founder and CEO of Equals, sits down with Mark Iafrate, Principal of Integrated Marketing at Intercom, to discuss the challenges of navigating product-market fit, the importance of understanding key metrics in the SaaS industry, common mistakes founders make in evaluating metrics, and the significance of storytelling in presenting data.Watch Start Good trouble on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlCIldMZCaFpAwM39seMpQCUyexY98tUFNewsletters:Sign up for The Ticket: A twice-monthly newsletter bursting with all the insights, trends, tips, and assets your team needs to embrace the future of customer service. https://www.intercom.com/blog/newsletterSign up for Intercom on Product: a monthly newsletter sharing our latest thinking on building and designing great products, and how that's changing in the age of AI. https://inter.com/productpodcastSay hi on

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

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

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

In episode #245, I address 12 top SaaS metrics you should implement in your business. This is from a post at the link below. I love these posts, so let's see if these really are the best metrics for you. - 12 essential SaaS metrics - Ben's assessment of these metrics Have you downloaded my 5 Pillar SaaS Metrics Framework? Article Credit: https://editorialge.com/saas-metrics-every-ceo-should-monitor/

Kyle Poyar, author of Growth Unhinged and a leading expert in pricing, packaging, and product-led growth, joins CJ for this episode. Together they explore the evolving landscape of SaaS metrics in the age of AI with a focus on the paradigm shift from access-based pricing to outcome-based models. They also examine success-based pricing and how to attach metrics to these models. The discussion delves into AI's impact on ARR (annual recurring revenue), questioning its relevance in this new era and the implications of these changes for CFOs, who must now navigate more complex revenue structures and margins. As AI reshapes the industry, Kyle and CJ discuss the potential rise of professional services revenue, which SaaS metrics may fall by the wayside and what new metrics will emerge. This episode provides deep insights into the future of SaaS pricing in the age of AI and the metrics that will define success.If you're looking for an ERP head to NetSuite: https://netsuite.com/metrics and get a customized KPI checklist.—SPONSORS:Mercury is the fintech ambitious companies use for banking and all their financial workflows. With a powerful bank account at the center of their operations, companies can make better financial decisions and ensure that every dollar spent aligns with company priorities. That's why over 100K startups choose Mercury to confidently run all their financial operations with the precision, control, and focus they need to operate at their best. Learn more at mercury.com.Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group and Evolve Bank & Trust®; Members FDIC.NetSuite provides financial software for all your business needs. More than 40,000 companies have already upgraded to NetSuite, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you're looking for an ERP platform ✅, head to NetSuite https://netsuite.com/metrics and get the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning. Maxio is the only billing and financial operations platform that was purpose built for B2B SaaS. They're helping SaaS finance teams automate billing and revenue recognition, manage collections and payments, and put together investor grade reporting packages.

In episode 80 of Topline, host Sam, AJ, and Asad sit down with David Spitz, a former investment banker turned entrepreneur, to tackle the topic of GTM efficiency. Together, they dive into the growing challenges SaaS companies face as GTM efficiency metrics continue to decline. David introduces a new metric that compares sales and marketing spend to net changes in ARR, highlighting a troubling trend of inefficiency across public SaaS companies. They unpack the implications of this shift, examine how economic factors are shaping the landscape, and discuss how SaaS business models are evolving in response. Topline by Pavilion is also proud to debut The Revenue Leadership Podcast with Kyle Norton. Listen to the first two episodes now. Want more? Join the Topline Slack channel to engage with hosts, guests, and other listeners and subscribe to Topline Newsletter.  

My guest this week is Gavin Baker. Gavin is the managing partner and CIO of Atreides Management, and he has been on the show many times before. He is one of my favorite investors to talk to and this may be my favorite conversation with him. Gavin first started covering Nvidia as an investor at the turn of the millennium, making him the perfect guest to discuss all things AI and investing. There is so much detail in this discussion and I'm incredibly grateful to Gavin for sharing his wisdom with us again. Please enjoy this fantastic conversation with Gavin Baker. For the full show notes, transcript, and links to mentioned content, check out the episode page here. ----- This episode is brought to you by Ramp. Ramp's mission is to help companies manage their spend in a way that reduces expenses and frees up time for teams to work on more valuable projects. Ramp is the fastest-growing FinTech company in history and it's backed by more of my favorite past guests (at least 16 of them!) than probably any other company I'm aware of. It's also notable that many best-in-class businesses use Ramp—companies like Airbnb, Anduril, and Shopify, as well as investors like Sequoia Capital and Vista Equity. They use Ramp to manage their spending, automate tedious financial processes, and reinvest saved dollars and hours into growth. At Colossus and Positive Sum, we use Ramp for exactly the same reason. Go to Ramp.com/invest to sign up for free and get a $250 welcome bonus. ----- This episode is brought to you by Tegus, where we're changing the game in investment research. Step away from outdated, inefficient methods and into the future with our platform, proudly hosting over 100,000 transcripts – with over 25,000 transcripts added just this year alone. Our platform grows eight times faster and adds twice as much monthly content as our competitors, putting us at the forefront of the industry. Plus, with 75% of private market transcripts available exclusively on Tegus, we offer insights you simply can't find elsewhere. See the difference a vast, quality-driven transcript library makes. Unlock your free trial at tegus.com/patrick. ----- Invest Like the Best is a property of Colossus, LLC. For more episodes of Invest Like the Best, visit joincolossus.com/episodes.  Past guests include Tobi Lutke, Kevin Systrom, Mike Krieger, John Collison, Kat Cole, Marc Andreessen, Matthew Ball, Bill Gurley, Anu Hariharan, Ben Thompson, and many more. Stay up to date on all our podcasts by signing up to Colossus Weekly, our quick dive every Sunday highlighting the top business and investing concepts from our podcasts and the best of what we read that week. Sign up here. Follow us on Twitter: @patrick_oshag | @JoinColossus Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Show Notes: (00:00:00) Welcome to Invest Like the Best (00:04:42) The Magnificent Seven and Tech Competition (00:06:29) Generative AI and Scaling Laws (00:08:36) Challenges in AI Infrastructure (00:15:02) The Future of AI and Data Centers (00:17:51) Efficiency in AI Models (00:35:14) Synthetic Data and AI Training (00:42:37) Inference and the Role of Smartphones (00:48:35) Investment Implications in AI (00:49:09) Opportunities for New Companies (00:51:20) Challenges at the Application Layer (00:52:25) AI's Impact on Advertising (00:53:40) AI ROI Debate (00:54:39) SaaS Metrics and AI Disruption (00:55:59) AI-First Application Companies (01:00:50) The Future of Robotics (01:14:01) Leadership in Tech Giants (01:24:05) The Evolution of Investing