Business
Sproutworth
The Predictable B2B Success podcast is about creating predictable growth in a business. This is a podcast for founders, business owners, and marketing and sales executives. In each podcast episode, we unpack an aspect of creating business growth predictably. We look at how we can expand our influence and strategies to boost sales through the creation of remarkable experiences, empathetic content, and conversations. Each episode features an interview with a founder, sales or marketing executive, or thought leader in the B2B space. We might be bringing on well-known authors or hosts of popular podcasts but most importantly you’ll hear from those who have hands-on experience in creating predictable B2B success. Through each episode, we’ll be helping you explore the best ways to create predictable purpose-driven growth of a business and sustainable revenue growth. If you have any suggestions for future episodes or feedback on the podcast, get in touch via Twitter at @vpkoshy or through the website at https://www.sproutworth.com
Total 459 episodes
1
23
...
910
Go to
03/12/2024

How to Master Customer-Centric Sales Enablement Strategies for B2B Revenue Growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success! I'm Vinay Koshy, your host. Today, we have an episode brimming with powerful insights and strategies that could transform your business approach. Joining us are two stellar guests: Samantha Bergin, Center's Chief Marketing Officer, and Clayton Blueher, their Business Development and Sales Leader. Get ready to dive deep into the heart of effective sales enablement, where Samantha unveils the secret sauce to equipping sales teams for impactful conversations at every stage of the sales cycle. But that's just the beginning. Clayton and Samantha bring a wealth of knowledge on sales and marketing alignment, emphasizing the crucial importance of collaborative team efforts. They also introduce us to their innovative Account-Based Marketing pilot and share invaluable lessons on the power of listening to both internal teams and customer feedback. Discover how Center is revolutionizing expense management, aiding companies in navigating the complexities of a distributed workforce, and making informed, powerful decisions with real-time data. Whether you're grappling with resource allocation or striving to create a "Disneyland-like" customer experience, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. So, sit back, tune in, and prepare to equip your business for predictable B2B success! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Sales Enablement and Feedback: Providing materials for the sales team and seeking feedback. Sales and Marketing Alignment: Collaboration between sales, marketing, and other teams. Account-Based Marketing (ABM): Integrating an ABM pilot into the sales and marketing strategy. Listening as a Strategy: Actively listen to stakeholders and use tools like Gong for insights. Continuous Improvement in Digital Marketing: Testing and refining strategies based on audience engagement. Customer Experience: Emphasis on exceptional customer service. Expense Management: Managing subscriptions and using the Center's corporate cards for real-time reporting. Startup Efficiency and Focus: Being effective with resources and making informed decisions. Making Difficult Trade-offs: Challenges in resource allocation and the need for data-driven decisions. Customer-Centric Focus and Growth: Ensuring customer success and significant growth in the Center's customer base. And much, much more...
45m
26/11/2024

Interrelation of Sales and Marketing: How to Drive Revenue Growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success, where we explore the strategies and insights that fuel robust growth for B2B enterprises. Today, we're thrilled to welcome Islam Gouda, a distinguished marketing visionary with experience at companies like Mastercard and Emirates. In this episode, Islam unpacks the complex dynamics between sales and marketing, revealing how ego and management priorities can impact your company's trajectory. Are you curious about how small and medium enterprises can balance short-term gains with long-term strategy? Islam offers a nuanced perspective on the economic considerations that are particularly relevant in today's resource-constrained environment. We'll also touch on the importance of cultural sensitivity in global marketing, the innovative role of a "Culture Marketing Executive," and why aligning sales and marketing is crucial for sustainable growth. Get ready to explore data-driven insights that have shaped successful marketing campaigns, and learn why creativity should never be sidelined in data-centric approaches. Plus, Islam shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on maintaining a passion for continuous learning in the corporate world. Tune in as our host, Vinay Koshy, delves deep with Islam Gouda to uncover actionable strategies and forward-thinking ideas that can transform your B2B success story. Some areas we explore in this episode: Interrelation of Sales and Marketing: Power dynamics and strategic prioritization between sales and marketing.Management Decisions: Importance of management in balancing immediate revenue versus long-term brand awareness.Challenges for SMEs: SMEs prioritizing sales due to limited resources and the need for growth capital.Economic Considerations: Maintaining marketing efforts during economic downturns to stand out.Diversity and Leadership: The role of diversity in fostering innovation and moving away from micromanagement.Cultural Sensitivity in Marketing: Importance of understanding cultural differences in global markets, with a "Culture Marketing Executive" role suggested.Purposeful Marketing: Delivering genuine value and fostering emotional connections with customers.Revenue Marketing: Aligning sales and marketing for growth and its limited global adoption outside of Silicon Valley.Customer Insights and Data-Driven Marketing: Using data and analytics from examples like Mastercard to drive targeted marketing and product strategies.Branding and Messaging: The significance of branding, customer perception, and incentive programs, as illustrated by companies like Emirates.And much, much more ...
51m
19/11/2024

How to use Podcast Guesting and the DREAM method to Drive Growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success! In this episode, our host, Vinay Koshy, is joined by the dynamic Tiago Faria—a seasoned expert in Google Ads turned "anti-marketer," who is transforming how businesses approach growth and client acquisition. After an impressive 8-year tenure at Google's EU headquarters, Tiago encountered the all-too-familiar corporate burnout. This pivotal moment propelled him to embark on a journey into independent ventures, navigating uncharted waters in the marketing ecosystem. In this episode, Tiago reveals his revolutionary shift from creating endless content to mastering the art of podcast guesting. Imagine booking 67 podcast appearances in just four months! Tiago's story is not merely about numbers—it's about harnessing authentic relationships and strategic networking to drive tangible business outcomes. He shares his rich experiences, powerful insights, and practical steps for leveraging podcast guesting to build authority, generate high-quality leads, and foster meaningful connections. Tune in to discover the nuanced technique of the "anti-marketer," and learn how to transform your marketing efforts with less hassle and more genuine impact. Whether you're a coach, service provider, or high-ticket product seller, Tiago's innovative approach promises to provide you with the tools and inspiration to redefine your growth strategy. Don't miss out! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Career Transition: Tiago Faria's move from Google due to burnout and shifting to independent consulting.Independent Ventures Challenges: Struggles with creating manageable marketing strategies for small businesses.Adopting Podcast Guesting: Introduction to podcast guesting as a network and referral strategy through mentorship.Effective Podcast Practices: Lessons from booking 67 podcast spots, emphasizing preparation and unique value propositions.Relationship Building for Referrals: Leveraging existing connections and proactive referral strategies.Content Creation through Podcasting: Utilizing podcast appearances for micro-content and natural conversation-based content.Client Acquisition Strategies: Combining podcast guesting with LinkedIn outreach and preparing clients with narratives and worksheets.Consistency and Strategy Evaluation: The importance of committing to strategies for a significant period (at least 90 days) before evaluating their effectiveness.Trust and Authority Building: Podcast guesting to reach new audiences, network, and enhance social media engagement.Support and Resources: Offering clients checklists, templates, and relationship-building guides, directly linking to free resources for listeners.And much, much more...
39m
12/11/2024

How to reimagine hardware development and collaboration to drive growth

Welcome to another episode of the Predictable B2B Success podcast! In this episode, we're diving into the intricate world of hardware development, compliance, and collaboration with an extraordinary guest who is no stranger to tackling monumental challenges head-on. Our host, Vinay Koshy, speaks with John Conafay, the CEO and co-founder of Integrate—the groundbreaking program management tool specially designed for multi-team hardware development. In this episode, John takes us through his fascinating journey from working with space hardware, satellites, and rockets to leading a trailblazing venture reshaping the landscape of defense manufacturing and reindustrialization. With a rich background, including roles at the CFO's office at NASA and as a director of business development at Spaceflight, John brings a wealth of experience. But that's not all—Integrate has caught the attention of major investors like Village Global, Hyperplane, and the US Space Force, thanks to its unique, compliant software suite that seamlessly merges security and collaboration. Prepare to be riveted as John delves into the nuts and bolts of rapid iteration, agile methodologies, and the invaluable lessons he's learned. Whether in aerospace, robotics, automotive, or any hardware-driven industry, this episode promises insights you will want to take advantage of! Some areas we explore in this episode include: John Conafay's Background: His career in the space hardware industry, including roles at NASA and Spaceflight. Founding Integrate: The origin and evolution of Integrate, starting with smaller projects to minimize risk. Investment and Funding: Details on Integrate's pre-seed and seed funding rounds. Market Positioning: Integrate as a compliant software suite for hardware with applications in automotive, robotics, aerospace, etc. Collaboration and Compliance: Importance of seamless collaboration and compliance in internal and external projects. Rapid Iteration: Adopting agile, rapid iteration methodologies in hardware development inspired by software practices. Tech Impact: The role of 3D printing in enabling rapid prototyping and iteration. Government Collaborations: Successful partnerships with the US Space Force and companies like NanoRacks/Voyager. Information Management: Using object-level permission settings to manage information overload. Commercial vs. Government Markets: Balancing sales-led and product-led growth while staying agile across different sectors. And much, much more...
35m
05/11/2024

Podcast automation: How to save time and drive growth

Welcome back to another episode of Predictable B2B Success! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of AI-driven podcasting with an extraordinary guest, Edward Brower. As the co-founder of Podcast AI, Edward is revolutionizing how content creators and businesses approach podcast production. Imagine a world where your podcast episodes create themselves, your social media posts auto-generate, and your viral clips are selected and scheduled without lifting a finger. It sounds like science fiction, right? Join our host, Vinay Koshy, as he unravels the magic behind Podcast AI and its groundbreaking tool, MagicPod, designed to fully automate the podcasting process, from voice upload to distribution. We'll explore how Edward's innovative platform uses adaptive modes, enriched transcripts, and AI-driven workflows to provide unmatched accuracy and efficiency. Whether you're curious about the future of podcasting or seeking ways to enhance your B2B marketing strategy, this episode offers invaluable insights. Discover how you can turn corporate blogs into engaging podcasts and leverage the power of AI to boost your brand's visibility and lead generation. Tune in as Edward shares his journey, the evolution of Podcast AI, and technology's incredible potential in reshaping the podcasting landscape. You won't want to miss it! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Automation of Podcast Setup: The use of Podcast AI to automate the setup of websites for YouTubers and podcasters, including generating chapters and metadata.Postproduction Automation: How Podcast AI simplifies podcast production by handling tasks like music mixing, viral clip generation, social media scheduling, and distribution.MagicPod Feature: Introduction of MagicPod, which automates entire podcast creation, including postproduction steps and scheduling episodes.Comparison with Manual Tools: Vinay Koshy compares Podcast AI with manual tools like Descript, emphasizing Podcast AI's centralized and automated approach.Adaptive Mode and Enriched Transcripts: Features of Podcast AI include an adaptive mode for tailored titles and descriptions and enriched transcripts for higher accuracy (99%).Strategizing Brand and Speed to Market: Edward Brower discusses the importance of brand and rapid market entry, exemplified by Chat GPT's success.AI-Generated Content and Provenance: Addressing concerns about AI-generated content and the importance of provenance, compared to fan fiction and official media content.B2B Marketing through Podcasting: Edward Brower's insights on why podcasting is a crucial marketing step for B2B companies and how Podcast AI can facilitate this process.System for Company-Wide Content Creation: A feature where different company groups can post content using synthetic voices, including ad creation and AI chat functions.Future Developments and Product Philosophy: Upcoming features like "kebabbing," the development of a superior microphone, and the focus on high-quality, seamless user experience by Podcast AI.And much, much more...
38m
29/10/2024

Integration of Sales And Marketing: How to Elevate Client Success And Growth

In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, we speak with the dynamic and insightful Shaily Hakimian, the powerhouse behind Your Social Media Sherpa. Shaily's journey from MySpace enthusiast to social media maven is nothing short of inspiring, and she brings a treasure trove of strategies to help B2B brands thrive in today's digital landscape. Have you ever wondered why aligning your sales and marketing teams is crucial yet often challenging? Or how focusing on current clients can unlock unprecedented growth? Shaily sheds light on these critical areas, emphasizing the untapped potential of nurturing existing relationships over just hunting for leads. Dive into the world of social media through Shaily's eyes as she redefines it as a lead generator and a powerful educational platform. Learn how documenting FAQs can save you time and enhance client satisfaction. Shaily also reveals her secrets to overcoming the fear of sharing, leveraging AI for content creation, and maintaining a consistent, authentic presence online. Whether you're a CEO looking to articulate your brand's deeper motivations or someone who wants to master LinkedIn's nuances, Shaily's tips will guide you toward unforgettable engagement. Tune in for a treasure trove of actionable insights that could transform your business, filling you with hope for the future. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Integration of Sales, Marketing, and Information Sharing: Shaily Hakimian discusses the importance of integrating these functions to avoid common conflicts arising from role misunderstandings.Focus Beyond Lead Generation: Emphasizing the significance of maximizing value from existing clients and current client success.Social Media as an Educational Medium: Using social media for educating clients rather than solely for lead generation.Content Strategy and Documentation: The importance of documenting client inquiries and FAQs and repurposing this content across SEO, social media, and emails.Overcoming Fear and Nervousness in Content Creation: Gradually building confidence in sharing content by getting initial feedback from trusted audiences.Authentic and Engaging Social Media Use: CEOs and company faces should genuinely articulate their motivations and solutions to build trust and engagement on social platforms.Leveraging Podcasts for Content Generation: Using podcasts to create multiple forms of media efficiently and expanding reach.Consistency and Engagement in Social Media: The importance of a regular posting schedule on platforms like LinkedIn and meaningful interaction with others' content.Audience Engagement and Reciprocity: Engaging thoughtfully with other people's content and understanding the value of even small audience interactions.Realness in Professionalism and Case Study Presentation: Advocating for authenticity, less rigidity in traditionally stiff industries, and focusing on the customer's journey in case studies.And much, much more...
44m
22/10/2024

How to Foster Cyber Resilience And Transform Challenges to Drive Growth

Welcome to another episode of "Predictable B2B Success," hosted by Vinay Koshy! Today, we have an enlightening conversation with Brittany Greenfield, the dynamic CEO of Wabi. Brittany sheds light on an often-overlooked area of cybersecurity: the pivotal role developers play and the challenges they face. In a world where the shortage of cybersecurity professionals is acute, Brittany's vision for empowering developers with more autonomy and integrating security directly into their workflow is not just a solution but an inspiration. We'll explore the cultural shifts required within organizations to embed security at the heart of development processes. Brittany will also discuss the pitfalls of over-reliance on tools at the expense of robust security processes and the complexities of managing compliance intelligently. As AI continues its rapid and sometimes bewildering evolution, Brittany highlights the importance of good process hygiene to integrate new technologies safely. This emphasis on process hygiene is not just a precaution but a reassurance that safety and security can be maintained despite rapid technological change. We also discuss Wabi's innovative approach to cybersecurity, designed to drastically reduce project delays and breach risks while enhancing developer productivity. Finally, tune in to hear about Brittany's insights on market dynamics, cybersecurity budget justification, and how adopting the Japanese concept of Wabi Sabi can be a game changer. Don't miss this episode with actionable strategies to fortify your cybersecurity framework and drive business growth! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Empowering Developers in Cybersecurity: Addressing the shortage of cybersecurity professionals by integrating security into developers' workflows.Cultural Shifts in Organizations: Recognizing the significance of security and the challenges of focusing on tools instead of processes within DevSecOps.Compliance Management by Exception: Planning for compliance deviations intelligently to improve efficiency and reduce audit pressures on developers.AI Adoption and Security Hygiene: The rapid evolution of AI and the importance of integrating it securely through established processes.Cybersecurity Budget Justification: Linking cybersecurity investments to business drivers like developer productivity and project delivery timelines.Wabi's Growth and Market Maturity: Leveraging market maturity and positioning as a consultative partner during DevOps transformations.Challenges in Market Differentiation: Overcoming market noise and skepticism to secure client meetings and differentiate Wabi.Pricing and Market Fit Insights: Realizing the need to link pricing to FTE impacts and adapting it to different customer profiles.Process Over Tools Philosophy: Emphasizing process improvement before implementing new technologies and managing risk by design.Wabi Platform and Benefits: Providing a shared services model for application security, reducing project delays and breach risks, and enhancing productivity through effective process integration.And much, much more...
50m
15/10/2024

Business Productivity: How to Increase Productivity And Drive Growth

Welcome to another exciting episode of Predictable B2B Success! In today's conversation, our host, Vinay Koshy, speaks with Jeremy Nagel, a remarkable entrepreneur, and neurodivergent indie hacker who sold his successful startup, Smooth Messenger and emerged from that journey with newfound clarity about his ADHD and ASD level 1 diagnosis. This discovery propelled him to create FocusBear, a revolutionary productivity app designed to cultivate and maintain healthy habits, especially for those juggling multiple interests like Jeremy. Delve into Jeremy's unique path from feeling different during his teenage years to becoming a thriving business leader. He navigates the complexities of managing growth, profitability, and team alignment by leveraging his neurodivergent strengths. Jeremy's approach to productivity is more than just theoretical. He blends 'soft productivity' with essential pre-task rituals like meditation and aerobics for heightened focus and energy. He shares practical insights on making mundane tasks engaging, fostering neurodiverse work environments, and employing scientific approaches to productivity. This episode promises an enlightening discussion on the intersection of neurodiversity, leadership, and innovative productivity solutions. Whether you're a business leader or just looking to enhance your daily workflow, Jeremy's experiences and strategies offer profound takeaways. Tune in to uncover how aligning emotional and physical well-being can transform productivity from a rigid discipline into a holistic practice. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Productivity Challenges for Leaders: Managing growth, hiring, engagement, accountability, profitability, and aligning business units.Jeremy Nagel's Journey: His diagnosis with ADHD and ASD level 1, personal struggles, and their impact on his career and productivity strategies.Focus Bear's Development: Creation as a productivity tool to enforce healthy habits like meditation and exercise before work tasks.Soft Productivity Concept: Focusing on energy levels, emotions, and health rather than only self-discipline.Daily Structure for Productivity: The importance of structuring the day to enhance energy and using pre-task rituals like meditation.Task Engagement for ADHD: Making tasks more engaging, incorporating creativity in routine work to boost productivity.Leadership and Well-being: Emphasizing the role of emotional and physical well-being in effective leadership and team alignment.FocusBear's Features and Science: Using screen locks to enforce habits, AI to prevent distractions and scientific methods like exercise and mindfulness.Customer Feedback and Engagement: Customer feedback, relationships, and engaging core users are crucial for product improvement.Neurodiversity in Business: Importance of neurodiversity in hiring, leadership style influences, and creating adaptive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals.And much, much more...
40m
08/10/2024

Authority Marketing: How to Elevate B2B Tech Marketing through Authority and Content

Welcome to another episode of the Predictable B2B Success podcast! We are privileged to learn from authority marketing expert Frank Husmann, founder of Maxiality. Frank is a marketing guru with over two decades of experience in B2B marketing and a track record of pioneering strategies that propel SaaS companies to new heights. But what is authority marketing, and how can it shift your business from drowning in traditional metrics to thriving with human-centric content strategies? Frank shares his unique journey from exiting a successful SaaS venture to becoming the go-to marketing guru for founders and investors desperate for more effective growth solutions. We'll uncover how leveraging the expertise of your company's key figures can position you as an industry authority, driving demand and opportunities through both inbound and outbound tactics. Get ready to explore practical and intriguing concepts such as building compelling video content, integrating AI for content efficiency, offline marketing strategies like handwritten direct mail, and continuously engaging with your customers. Whether you aim to refine your marketing approach or seek to understand the benefits of authority marketing, this episode promises invaluable insights that you can apply to your business immediately. Join us as we redefine the path to success with Frank Husmann, only on Predictable B2B Success. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Authority Marketing in B2B Tech: Using company expertise to establish authority and drive predictable revenue growth.The Concept and Process: Authority marketing through founder interviews, content creation, and blending inbound and outbound strategies.Strategic Approach to Authority Marketing: Defining a unique perspective and focusing on clients' problems and company results.Integrating Marketing, Tech, and Sales: Frank Husmann's approach to combining these aspects with an entrepreneurial mindset.Content Creation and Coaching: Coaching clients for effective communication and storytelling with tailored interview questions.Emerging Trends in B2B Marketing: Companies becoming media entities, increased video content, and AI integration for efficiency.Measuring Marketing Success: Transition to qualitative metrics, ROI tracking with tools like HubSpot, and targeted PPC strategies.Creative and Offline Marketing Strategies: Utilizing offline methods like handwritten mail and roundtable sessions for unique engagement.Content Library and Amplifying Success: Building and analyzing a content library, focusing on audience engagement, and moving away from MQL-centric approaches.Shifting C-Level Mindsets: Encouraging C-level executives to prioritize authority and brand value through demand generation strategies.And much, much more...
46m
02/10/2024

How to Leverage AI in Advertising to Drive Growth and Credibility

Welcome to another episode of "Predictable B2B Success," where we dive deep into the transformative world of modern advertising! In this episode, we are thrilled to host Aditya Varanasi, CEO of Awarity, who sheds light on how his company aims to make world-class marketing accessible for small to midsize businesses. With a unique blend of experience from PepsiCo and private equity, Aditya reveals the crucial steps companies must take before they're ready for impactful advertising. Have you ever wondered if your business is prepared for an advertising boost? Aditya walks us through how they use data-driven strategies and AI to assess and predict which companies can benefit from their services. We explore the revolutionary impact of AI in optimizing ad campaigns, transforming customer persona generation, and making advertising incredibly efficient for specific B2B contexts. From the importance of early branding investment to the often-overlooked synergy between outreach and advertising efforts, this episode is packed with invaluable insights for entrepreneurs and marketing leaders alike. Discover how Awarity's unique approach can turn complex advertising challenges into tangible growth opportunities. Tune in and get ready to rethink your advertising strategy with insights that promise to elevate your business to new heights! Some areas we cover in this episode include: Client Readiness for Advertising Services: Aditya explains that not all businesses are ready for advertising services and describes their system for assessing client readiness and predicting which businesses could benefit from additional advertising.AI in Advertising Operations: Discussion on how Aditya's company uses AI to optimize ad campaigns, offer lower prices, and efficiently process large data volumes.Creating Customer Personas with AI: Development of AI tools to generate customer personas from uploaded customer lists for small and medium businesses.Targeting and Brand Recognition in B2B Advertising: How their platform targets specific industries, verticals, and geographies to enhance brand recognition and credibility.Early Investment in Branding for Startups: Importance of early branding investment to build recognition and credibility among startups.Challenges in Innovative Marketing: Challenges such as reaching specific audiences across fragmented channels, ROI demonstration difficulties, and integrating new technologies with existing systems.Aditya's Entrepreneurial Journey: His transition from part-time work on Awarity to fully committing, inspired by the needs of small businesses and positive customer feedback.Metrics and Funnel Stages for Advertising: Different metrics for various funnel stages, including awareness, engagement, and purchase, and their importance in customer journey tracking.Advertising for Client Retention: Role of advertising in maintaining customer engagement and reinforcing product benefits, not just for acquisition but also for retention.Future of Advertising with AI: Vision for making world-class advertising accessible to everyone, automated customer persona identification, omnichannel strategy creation, and optimizing advertising budgets using AI.And much, much more...
47m
24/09/2024

How to master competitive intelligence with labor market data to drive growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success! Today, host Vinay Koshy invites Cary Sparrow, the dynamic founder and CEO of WageScape, to shed light on the untapped potential of competitive intelligence and labor market data. Get ready to challenge your perspective as Cary explores how emerging capabilities enable businesses to gain unprecedented visibility into their competitors' strategies and hiring trends. In this episode, Cary dives deep into the game-changing innovations revolutionizing the B2B landscape. Whether you're a startup founder navigating the treacherous waters of high growth or an established enterprise looking to stay ahead, Cary's insights will provide you with practical strategies. Discover why traditional wage data collection methods have become obsolete and engage with the transformative possibilities brought forth by real-time, localized data. Expect surprising revelations as Cary details the shift in wage growth post-pandemic and the discrepancy among leading pay information sources. Learn how transparency and technological advances are increasing trust and precision in decision-making and creating new opportunities for revenue growth. Join us for this compelling conversation and uncover the strategies that could propel your business to the next level with the power of cutting-edge market intelligence. Take advantage of understanding how to navigate the fast-paced, ever-evolving corporate environment and hear valuable insights from a leader with over 35 years of expertise. Tune in now! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Competitive Intelligence: Discussion on the advanced capabilities now available for businesses to gain insights into their competitors.Market Intelligence for B2B Sectors: Emphasizing the importance of sophisticated data capabilities for startups and high-growth companies.Impact of the Pandemic on Wage Growth: Overview of how wage growth dramatically increased from 2-4% to 20% annually in the US post-pandemic.Transparency in Labor Market Data: The shift towards greater transparency in labor market data and its transformative potential within the next 3-5 years.Strategic Partnerships and Revenue Growth: Importance of forming strategic partnerships and using an R&D license model to support product development phases.Innovation and Standardization of Data Integration: Efforts in simplifying and standardizing the integration of data into intelligence products to increase speed and reduce risks.Localized Labor Market Data and Variability: Examining the need for current, localized labor market data and the significant variations at the local level compared to national trends.Technological Advancements in Recruiting: Using innovations like embedding wage data into recruiting applications to improve hiring processes and reduce turnover costs. Economic Impact and Revenue Growth from Market Intelligence: How businesses are using labor market data to drive revenue growth through new products, business models, and optimized processes.Personal Philosophy and Business Development: Cary Sparrow's approach to business, emphasizing the importance of learning, adapting quickly, and leveraging existing solutions.And much, much more...
46m
17/09/2024

How to Master Financial Acumen And Align With Core Values to Drive Growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success! Today, we're diving deep into the core of financial management for businesses with Colin Sanburg, an expert whose unique approach aims to transform how companies manage their finances and drive profitability. Colin, the founder of FinElevate, joins host Vinay Koshy to discuss the intricacies of integrating team training with leadership collaboration, creating comprehensive dashboards, and aligning financial strategies with a company's values and vision. In this episode, Colin explains why many entrepreneurs struggle with financial literacy and how simplifying complex financial concepts can lead to better business decisions. He will also share his secret to holistically evaluating business ideas and investments, ensuring long-term success. Discover why mastermind groups are crucial for continuous learning and business growth and how embracing financial transparency can transform your team's understanding and engagement. We'll also explore Colin's compelling insights on utilizing AI in financial management, the critical role of effective marketing, and the importance of maintaining diverse lead generation channels. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting, this episode provides indispensable advice to help you elevate your financial acumen and achieve predictable success in your B2B endeavors. Tune in now for a masterclass on driving business excellence with Colin Sanburg. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Ongoing Team Development: Integrating natural team training with leadership teams to build dashboards and drive profitability.Financial Literacy and Management: The importance of financial knowledge for business longevity and success, especially in competitive fields like B2B tech.Simplifying Financial Concepts for Entrepreneurs: Using simplified terms and a straightforward profit formula for better financial comprehension.Mastermind Groups: The value of engaging in mastermind groups for business growth, sharing experiences, and gaining practical insights.Financial Literacy in B2B Marketing: Addressing the gap in financial literacy among B2B marketers and the implications for business growth.The Role of Dashboards in Business: Tracking business performance through comprehensive dashboards for metrics like expenses, lead flow, and close rates.AI in Financial Management: The evolving role and custom applications of AI in financial management, and the importance of balancing AI with human effort.Colin Sanburg's Journey: His personal business journey, experience with financial instability, and commitment to continuous learning.Accounting Firm Philosophy: A shift from traditional CPA roles to a business-focused approach in accounting to help businesses improve profitability.Basic Financial Skills for Business Owners: The necessity for business owners to enhance their financial management skills and understanding key drivers of profitability.And much, much more...
43m
10/09/2024

How to create powerful sales narratives that drive growth and success

Get ready to discover the secrets of turning your B2B marketing from ordinary to extraordinary in this episode of Predictable B2B Success. Join host Vinay Koshy as he dives deep with Bruce Scheer, the CEO of Inspire Your Buyers and president of the National Speakers Association Northwest, who brings decades of experience empowering companies like IBM, SAP, and Motorola. In this captivating discussion, Bruce reveals how Chevron's Techron strategy can serve as a blueprint for identifying your unique differentiator. Have you ever wondered how to seamlessly align your marketing and sales with a core narrative that immediately captures your audience's attention? Bruce breaks down his North Star model, emphasizing why an envisioned outcome and a deeply understood customer problem are game-changers for your business. Hear compelling stories and proven strategies that show how companies like LinkedIn and Concur transformed their go-to-market narratives to close monumental deals and outshine competitors. If you're seeking to enhance your sales conversations and establish a genuine connection with decision-makers by addressing their most pressing problems, this episode is a treasure trove of practical insights. Tune in to learn how a robust, validated narrative can be the foundation of your B2B success. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Chevron's Techron Marketing Strategy: Differentiation through branding a unique fuel additive.Soft Skills and Hard Value in Differentiation: Balancing customer attraction with quantifiable value.Challenges for Service-Based B2B Companies: Strategies for quantifying and addressing customer outcomes, including unique differentiators like Fastly's Slack channel.Importance of a Core Narrative: Building a cohesive narrative to align marketing and sales efforts, avoiding disjointed messaging.North Star Model for Narrative Development: A step-by-step process to craft, test, refine, and launch a compelling narrative.Sales Narrative Construction and Validation: The components and importance of a value-driven and unified sales narrative, specific to the product being sold.Identifying Target Buyers and Differentiating Influencers from Decision-Makers: Importance of recognizing the key decision-makers and tailoring narratives for different buyer personas and verticals.Consequences of a Poor Narrative and Importance of Continual Improvement: The risks associated with weak narratives and the need for regular updates and refinements.Illustrative Examples and Success Stories: Real-life cases such as LinkedIn's "deep sales" campaign and Concur's impactful narrative leading to significant deals.Framing Problems to Engage Decision-Makers: Techniques for spotlighting significant problems, including emotional, operational, and financial pain points, and using compelling stories and clear steps to drive action.And much, much more...
47m
03/09/2024

Sales system implementation: How to navigate transitions to teams that drive growth

In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, we're joined by Dave Kahle, a seasoned sales expert with decades of experience in transforming sales teams and driving revenue growth. Do you need help transitioning from founder-led sales to a structured sales team? Are you curious about the secret sauce behind deepening high-potential account relationships and skyrocketing your sales numbers? Dave Kahle reveals actionable insights into creating an effective sales system tailored for ambitious B2B tech companies. Discover why starting at the highest level and aligning with your chief sales officer's vision is pivotal. Learn how a targeted dashboard can measure crucial metrics and steer your team toward success. Dave shares a fascinating case study about redirecting sales efforts to penetrate high-potential accounts, leading to a 73% increase in key account penetration. Have you ever wondered how your compensation plans could be misaligned with desired salesperson behaviors? Dave breaks it down and suggests strategic incentives to drive the right actions. Get ready to rethink how you build trust and relationships, shifting from transactional to partnership-based interactions. Plus, dive into sales' often overlooked emotional nuances and gain practical tips on managing rejection and isolation. Tune in to unlock the transformative power of a robust sales system! Some areas we explore in this episode: Transition from Founder-Led Sales to a Sales Team: Strategies for implementing a sales system to facilitate this transition.Alignment with Chief Sales Officer's Goals: The importance of syncing sales strategies and goals with top-level management.Building Trusting Business Relationships: Methods to ensure customers get to know, trust, and become comfortable with the salesperson and the company.Key Metrics and Leading Indicators: Discussion on critical metrics like penetration of high potential accounts and how CEOs can track sales system effectiveness.Sales Compensation Plans: Addressing the misalignment of sales behaviors with compensation, proposing a salary plus incentives model.Sales Training Approach: Insights into Dave Kahle's training methods, focusing on practical, interactive sessions with a strong emphasis on application and peer feedback.Sales Process Overview: The "big picture sales process" from identifying suspects to transforming them into trusted partners.Emotional Aspects of Sales: Addressing often overlooked emotional challenges like rejection, isolation, and time management in sales training.Importance of Investing in Sales Force Development: Emphasis on making learning and development a strategic initiative for businesses.Effective Use of Customer Feedback: Discussion on why the focus might be less on customer feedback and more on sales figures to gauge customer satisfaction.And much, much more...
48m
27/08/2024

How to use data insights and measurement marketing to drive growth

In this episode of the Predictable B2B Success podcast, we're diving deep into measurement marketing with Chris Mercer, the co-founder of MeasurementMarketing.io. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by mountains of data and wondered how to transform those numbers into actionable insights? Or have you faced hurdles of miscommunication between your data analysts and end-users? Mercer reveals the critical keys to overcoming these challenges and advancing your organization's forecasting capabilities. In this episode, Mercer and Vinay Koshy explore the essence of effective measurement strategies, highlighting the importance of accepting the possibility of being wrong—a concept that can transform your approach to data. Mercer shares compelling case studies, actionable plans, and real-life strategies for turning website user behavior into informed design adjustments. From assessing team skills to leveraging AI in analytics, get ready to uncover the traits of top-notch measurement marketers and how to bridge the daunting gap between raw data and impactful business decisions. Whether you're a seasoned data analyst or a business leader eager to sharpen your measurement tactics, this episode offers invaluable insights. Join us for a riveting conversation that promises to transform your understanding of data measurement and forecasting! Some areas we explore in this episode include: The Importance of Accepting the Possibility of Being Wrong: The episode emphasizes how embracing the idea of potentially being wrong can lead to more effective actions and forecasting within organizations.Challenges in Communication Between Data Analysts and End Users: The discussion delves into the miscommunication issues that arise when analysts deliver reports that don't meet user needs.Case Study on Measuring User Behavior: Mercer provides a practical example of how analyzing website data can lead to informed adjustments in site design.Traits of a Good Measurement Marketer: Traits to look for in a measurement marketer, including the ability to interpret data and translate it into actionable insights, are highlighted.The Importance of Planning in Reporting: Emphasis is placed on having a clear plan for analyzing data so that the information can be used effectively.Role of AI in Analytics and Measurement: The role AI plays in enhancing analytics and addressing the organizational data challenges are discussed.Managing Discomfort with Data: Addressing fears and discomfort associated with data, specifically the fear of being wrong, is a key topic.Combining Quantitative and Qualitative Analytics: The importance of integrating both types of analytics for a comprehensive understanding of user behavior is discussed.Effective Forecasting and Action Steps: Forecasting as a forward-looking tool and planning subsequent action steps based on predictive analytics are explored.Measurement Strategy and Growth: Mercer outlines the importance of a clear measurement strategy, which includes asking the right questions and learning from the data to drive business growth. And much, much more...
46m
20/08/2024

How to improve b2b conversion rate optimization to drive growth

Welcome back to another episode of the Predictable B2B Success podcast, where Vinay Koshy speaks with conversion rate optimization (CRO) expert Sahil Patel, CEO of Spiralyze, to unlock the secrets behind high-performing B2B tech websites. Have you ever wondered why your website isn't converting traffic as you'd hoped? Sahil shares groundbreaking insights, including the pivotal "one-second test" that could revolutionize your approach to homepage clarity. Dive into the art and science of optimizing your landing pages with practical tips on mastering imagery, emphasizing authentic visuals, and the essential framework of the hook, mirror, and ladder. Sahil reveals his data-driven methodology for A/B testing and balances quick wins with long-term strategies, debunking common CRO myths. Discover why undervaluing your traffic's destination can be likened to misdirecting drive-through customers to a dine-in experience, and learn how Patel had a 12% conversion rate boost merely by changing images—an insight that can transform your practices. Whether you're a startup or an established player, Sahil's advice on leveraging affordable methods for swift feedback and actionable insights will leave you eager to revamp your approach. Tune in and elevate your B2B success to the next level! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Method for Obtaining Website Feedback: Sahil Patel's suggested approach to get unvarished feedback on a website by targeting a specific audience and reviewing new homepage versions.Importance of Messaging and Imagery: Emphasis on both word-based and visual messaging, ensuring the overall impression aligns with the company's purpose.Data-Driven Approach to Driving Traffic: Discussion on the need for a strategic, data-informed approach to driving site traffic and the pitfalls of neglecting the traffic's destination.Framework for Effective Landing Pages: Introduction of the hook, the mirror, and the ladder model for creating effective landing pages tailored for different audience types.Use of Real Images Over Stock Photos: Benefits of using authentic images of actual people who deliver work at the company, including a case study with a 12% conversion increase.Rebranding Efforts and Focusing on Quick Wins: Advice on avoiding the energy and cost drain of rebranding without immediate results and instead focusing on direct, impactful actions.One-Second Homepage Test: Sahil's top recommendation to test the homepage's clarity by ensuring viewers understand the company's offerings within one second.AB Testing for Conversion Rate Optimization: Discussion on AB testing, including Sahil's preference for testing multiple elements for potential significant improvements despite industry debates.Knowledge on Conversion Rate and SEO Correlation: Sahil's admission of uncertainty regarding the correlation between conversion rate optimization and changes in search engine algorithms.Strategies for Significant Conversion Gains: Three big ideas shared for achieving conversion gains with minimal investment and effort, accessible to small companies.And much, much more...
52m
13/08/2024

How to use mission-driven strategies to drive growth and social impact

In this episode of "Predictable B2B Success." Today, we're diving deep into the transformative realm of mission-driven business strategies with Paul Burani, a seasoned expert in sales and marketing dedicated to integrating social impact into revenue models. With over two decades of experience and a visionary approach, Paul delves into the intricate process of shifting the mindset of automotive clients from direct to brand marketing. Get ready to explore how mission-driven companies make a difference and secure competitive advantages in the B2B tech marketplace. Paul shares invaluable insights on building rapport with clients, the power of storytelling in business, and the rising prominence of ESG strategies, CSR programs, and conscious consumerism. He also discusses the essential qualities for leaders in mission-driven organizations and the early impact of hiring fractional executives. Plus, he provides practical advice on how to quantify social outcomes and navigate the challenges and rewards of a mission-driven business model. Tune in as Paul Burani reveals the secrets behind successful social impact ventures and the undeniable link between purpose and profit. This is an episode you can't afford to miss—whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or simply someone passionate about making a positive change in the world through business. Some we explore in this episode include: Challenges in Shifting Client Mindsets: Discussing the transition from direct marketing to brand marketing in the automotive business.Building Client Rapport: The importance of being helpful, actively listening, and providing expertise without initially positioning oneself as a C-level hire.Running a Podcast for Business: The benefits of podcasting are that it allows for the communication of expertise and knowledge and connecting with people externally and internally within an organization.Value of Attention: The significance of recognizing and respecting people's attention and ensuring value in every interaction.Competitive Advantages of Mission-Driven Businesses**: How being mission-driven can provide a competitive edge in the B2B technology marketplace, focusing on prosocial orientation, ESG strategies, CSR programs, and conscious consumerism.Social Impact and Revenue Growth**: Integrating social impact into business strategies and potential effects on revenue growth and market differentiation.Storytelling and Emotional Connections: Using storytelling to create emotional connections with customers and prioritizing early hiring of the right C-level executives.Quantifying Social Impact Outcomes: The necessity for organizations to measure social impact outcomes, using healthcare's patient outcomes focus as an example.Importance of Leadership: Essential qualities for leaders in mission-driven companies, including self-awareness, active listening, and a service orientation.Fractional Executives and Sales Funnel Insights: The value of fractional executives in the current labor market and the need for a deeper understanding of the sales funnel to gain valuable business insights.And much, much more...
49m
06/08/2024

How to use AI In B2B Sales for ad campaigns that drive revenue growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success! In this episode, host Vinay Koshy chats with Matt Swalley, co-founder of OmniKey, to explore the evolving landscape of digital ad campaigns and the shift from traditional outbound sales to more sophisticated, data-driven strategies. Have you ever wondered how leading startups navigate the challenges of fragmented data and leverage AI to create personalized marketing experiences? Matt delves into these complexities, highlighting the necessity of cross-team collaboration and integrating CRM systems like Pendo, HubSpot, and Slack to synthesize crucial data. He shares insightful tips on testing AI for efficiency, the value of discovery calls, and the pivotal role of creative content in today's competitive environment. Listeners will gain actionable insights into balancing sales-led and product-led growth strategies and how podcasts can bridge the gap for nurturing relationships and repurposing content. From uncovering cost-effective ad campaign strategies for financial businesses to navigating AI's intimidating yet indispensable potential, this episode is packed with guidance for early-stage startups and seasoned business leaders alike. Tune in as Matt Swalley reveals the secrets to doubling revenue growth through the perfect blend of data and creativity while emphasizing the transformative power of AI in the B2B space. Take advantage of these invaluable lessons for scaling and succeeding in the digital age. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Siloed Data in Organizations: How siloed data is a common issue and the importance of communication across teams to ensure effective sales processes.Sales Metrics: Discussion on crucial sales metrics such as customer acquisition cost, conversion percentage, and lifetime value.AI and Personalized Marketing: The future role of AI, personalized experiences in marketing, and the importance of testing AI for efficiency and growth.Digital Ad Campaigns for Financial Businesses: Matt Swalley's insights on creating and testing digital ad campaigns, including budget recommendations and target audience identification.Shift in Sales Processes: The evolution from traditional outbound sales to more digital and inbound approaches and the importance of a complementary advertising strategy.Challenges in Early-Stage Startups: Strategies to overcome challenges including using emails, phone calls, and ads, and the importance of discovery calls for personalizing sales approaches.Content Testing and Iteration: Advising on testing various types of content and iterating successful assets in multivariate creative testing, along with focusing on visuals and creatives in ad campaigns.Sales-Led vs. Product-Led Growth: Comparing sales-led and product-led growth strategies and the benefits of combining both approaches for predictable revenue growth.Role of Podcasts in Marketing: Using podcasts to nurture connections, repurpose content for ads, and build organic rapport with customers.AI Tools and Feedback Loops: Incorporating AI tools and voice of the customer trackers in sales and marketing strategies to inform product development and improve growth.And much, much more...
40m
30/07/2024

How to win with storytelling in B2B marketing and drive growth

In this Predictable B2B Success Podcast episode, host Vinay Koshy speaks with marketing expert Jarie Bollander. Jarie, the CEO of Story Driven and advisor to organizations like Decision Council and Incodex, discusses the importance of a story-driven marketing approach in today's world for B2B success He shares insights from his unique career trajectory from engineering to marketing, driven by personal hardship and the resulting resilience. The conversation covers why storytelling is crucial for differentiation, the inherent complexities of persuading audiences, and how emotional resonance can drive successful marketing campaigns. Jarie also explains practical aspects such as creating compelling origin stories, the significance of product-market fit surveys, and the importance of internal alignment in storytelling. The episode is full of insights, especially for C-suite executives in B2B tech companies aiming to leverage storytelling for superior market positioning and customer engagement. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Importance of Storytelling in Marketing: Jarie Bolander emphasizes that the best story wins in a democratized market, and storytelling is a key differentiator for businesses.Transition from Engineering to Marketing: Bolander shares his story of transitioning from engineering to marketing due to personal circumstances, including his wife's illness and eventual passing.Simplifying Complex Ideas and Storytelling: Bolander discusses his superpower in breaking down complex ideas into simple, compelling stories.Focus on Customer Problems: The need for businesses to focus on solving customer problems rather than just highlighting their offerings.Businesses as Mentors, Customers as Heroes: How companies should position themselves as mentors, making customers the hero in their brand story.Challenges of Crafting a Compelling Story: The difficulty in creating a story that resonates with the right audience and finding unique aspects that make a company special.Emotional Elements in Decision-Making: The impact of emotions in B2B decision-making processes and how stories that evoke core emotions are more memorable and repeatable.Employee Ambassadors and Internal Alignment: The role of employee ambassadors in aligning company goals with public interactions and the importance of internal buy-in for marketing success.Navigating Abundance of Uncurated Content: The challenges of managing excessive content in B2B marketing and the value of scorecard marketing in guiding prospects towards solutions.Tools and Metrics for Lead Generation and Marketing: The use of tools like Poly and Syminfo for lead generation and the importance of leading indicators such as customer surveys, feedback, conversion rates, and referrals in assessing marketing effectiveness.And much, much more...
48m
23/07/2024

Software Development Outsourcing: How to Use Strategic Investments to Drive Growth

In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, host Vinay Koshy sits down with Frederic Joye, the visionary co-founder of Arcanys, to delve into the intersection of human connection and strategic innovation in outsourcing. From orchestrating personal bonds with fantastic people to his strategic pivot towards meaningful investments, Frederic shares a compelling narrative of how integrating a purpose-driven culture can pave the way for predictable revenue growth and long-term innovation. Discover how Arcanys distinguishes itself in a competitive market by fostering genuine relationships and trust with its mostly Western clientele and why aligning client culture with its own is paramount for project success. Frederic opens up about the pivotal moments that influenced a shift towards investing in high-potential startups, the criteria they use to evaluate investment opportunities, and how their involvement as shareholders can drive mutual growth. Whether you're intrigued by the nuances of outsourcing, fascinated by the mechanics of strategic investments, or keen on understanding the metrics behind a thriving, purpose-driven company, this episode is guaranteed to captivate your interest. Join us for an insightful conversation that promises to elevate your understanding of fostering business success through human-centric approaches and strategic foresight. Tune in now! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Human Element in Outsourcing: Importance of developing positive relationships and emotions with people involved in outsourcing.Strategic Investments in Startups: Arcanys's pivot towards strategic investments in startups as a more scalable business model than selling software development hours.Criteria for Investment: What Arcanys looks for in startups, including late seed or pre-series A companies with good traction, revenue, and a strong technical team.Personal Strength and Trust: Frederic Joye focuses on interpersonal relationships and helping people, which is key to overcoming challenges and gaining clients' trust.Differentiation from Competitors: How Arcanys differentiates itself by focusing on quality over growth, serving mainly Western clients, and prioritizing relationships and trust.Onboarding and Cultural Alignment: Frederic's involvement in onboarding new clients and evaluating their culture to ensure alignment with Arcanys's values.Challenges in the Outsourcing Industry: Overcoming the reputation of the outsourcing industry and the significant investment needed for acquiring new clients.Key Drivers of Growth: Internal growth from existing clients and returns from strategic investments made in the past contributing to the company's success.Measuring Success: Metrics used by Arcanys to assess success, including client and developer satisfaction, net promoter score, and recognition as a great workplace.Company Culture: Arcanys's Purpose-driven culture is focused on doing the right thing, creating a good working environment, and helping others.And much, much more...
39m
16/07/2024

Exceeding client expectations: How to use key financial strategies to drive growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success, where we explore the keys to sustaining and scaling your business with expert guidance. In this episode, we have the honor of hosting Jason Kruger, president and founder of Signature Analytics, who brings a wealth of knowledge from his extensive public accounting and financial leadership background. Tune in as Jason delves into exceeding customer expectations, ensuring client satisfaction, and boosting client retention—cornerstones for any thriving business. Learn how consistent contracts impact your accounting, business valuation, and sale potential. Jason shares a fascinating success story from working with a drug and rehabilitation company, where strategic financial improvements led to an acquisition. But that's not all. Gain insights into the critical role of financial education for business owners and teams across departments, shedding light on often overlooked pain points that can hinder growth. Discover why culture fit is paramount at Signature Analytics and how their remote work model fuels their unprecedented success. Get ready to uncover the secrets to maximizing cash flow, navigating post-COVID challenges, and weatherproofing your business for future uncertainties. This episode promises invaluable advice, actionable tips, and a deeper understanding of driving business success through financial mastery. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Exceeding Customer Expectations: Importance of client satisfaction and retention rates.Bonus Plans and Business Success: Linking bonus plans to business performance and the impact of consistent contracts on accounting and valuation.Financial Improvement Success Story: Case study of a drug and rehabilitation company's financial turnaround.Credible Financial Information During Due Diligence: Necessity of accurate financial information to avoid discounted offers.Hiring and Processes for Success: The importance of hiring the right people, implementing processes, and regular communication.Processes for Scaling Business Operations: Essential processes needed for accounting, invoicing, bill payments, and financial reporting.Financial Education for Business Leaders: Need for financial education for leaders, including marketing, sales, and customer service teams.Post-COVID Business Challenges: Impact of post-COVID challenges, focusing on cash flow management and uncertainty preparation.Technology and Data Understanding: Importance of understanding data foundations before investing in technology.Remote Work Model and Team Investment: Shift to remote work model and reinvestment in team and culture.And much, much more...
52m
09/07/2024

How to strategically use empathy and technology in B2B to drive growth

In this Predictable B2B Success Podcast episode, host Vinay Koshy engages in a compelling conversation with Will Adams, President at Tarkenton Companies. Will discusses the pressing challenge of preserving the human element in business relationships and innovation processes as AI and technology rapidly advance.  The dialogue covers various topics, including Tarkenton's unique business model as a Skunkworks operation, the importance of journey mapping, and the critical role of empathy and effective communication in leadership. Will also shares insights into how companies can integrate AI without compromising the human experience. He particularly stresses the importance of fostering innovation within risk-averse organizations, aiming to inspire the audience and instill a sense of hope in the face of technological changes.  We also delve into the delicate balance of maintaining the human element in a fast-paced tech landscape dominated by AI advancements. The discussion underscores why empathy should be at the core of user design and customer experience, highlighting its crucial role in the B2B tech industry. Will Adams shares his wisdom on bridging the gaps between client success and development teams, the importance of journey mapping, and the role of ethical guidelines in the Wild West of technological innovation. Plus, discover why Apple's deliberate approach and Google's cautionary AI tale offer essential lessons for today's businesses. Stay tuned for an episode that promises to challenge your perspectives and spark new ideas for a more empathetic and innovative future in B2B success! Some areas we explore in this episode include: 1. Role and Mission of Tarkenton: - Description of Tarkenton's services and their focus on storytelling for long sales cycles. - The entrepreneurial mindset and mission of making business fun while helping people. 2. Balancing Human Experience and Technology: - Challenges B2B tech companies face in maintaining the human element amidst rapid AI and technology advancements. - Impact of technology on young people's mental health and the ethical responsibilities of tech creators and consumers. 3. Empathy and Client Experience: - Importance of fostering empathy and understanding of the client experience within development teams. - Practices like rotating engineers through client success roles and placing development teams in client success hubs. 4. Value Beyond Technology: - Emphasis on adding value to businesses beyond just technology. - Starting from the point of making a meaningful difference and ensuring sincerity in business practices. 5. Leadership in Rapid Technology Changes: - Essential leadership qualities include communication, team building, and creating a culture of empowerment. - Leaders should ask questions, engage teams, and lead by example to foster empathy and understanding. 6. Personal Touch in Customer Relations: The significance of maintaining a personal touch with customers and within the organization based on Will Adams' early career experience. 7. Ethical Guidelines and Regulatory Guardrails in Technology: - Importance of ethical guidelines, transparency in design, and regulatory guardrails in AI development. - The balance between innovation and ethical responsibility. 8. Blending AI and Human Elements: - Integration of AI with human consultation in their SaaS applications to enhance customer experience. - Understanding the need for a balanced approach with real-life human support alongside AI. 9. Journey Mapping and Research: - Initial steps in Tarkenton's process, emphasizing journey mapping and thorough research and design before project planning. 10. Fostering Innovation in Bureaucratic Organizations: - Strategies to drive innovation in risk-averse settings. - Use of Skunkworks and the role of a bridge builder to connect the organization with an external innovation team. 11. And much, much more...
50m
02/07/2024

Iceberg sales approach: How to drive growth through empathy

In this episode of the Predictable B2B Success podcast, we're diving deep into the often misunderstood world of human-centric sales with our extraordinary guest, Karl Becker. Karl Becker has founded and run numerous companies over the last thirty years and now runs Improving Sales Performance, a consultancy that supports sales organizations to build high-performing teams and achieve their revenue goals. He is the author of Set up to Win: Three Frameworks to a High-Performing Sales Organization and Sales & Marketing Alignment.  Have you ever wondered how transforming just one employee's outlook can lead to a 30% increase in sales? Karl shares his compelling journey of rescuing a company from firing a 'negative' employee to turning her concerns into actionable changes that revamped the entire sales process. Host Vinay Koshy unpacks the essence of Karl's revolutionary 'Iceberg Selling' approach. Discover how focusing on the hidden 90% beneath the surface can unlock significant sales potential, moving beyond the transactional to the relational. Karl outlines four potent mindsets—lifetime value, being of service, ownership, and drivership—that elevates sales results and foster personal growth, motivating any salesperson to strive for excellence. Tune in as Karl navigates the intricate balance between leveraging technology and automation while maintaining genuine human connections. From effective empathy to redefining sales processes, this episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights. Stay with us to learn how slowing down, deeply understanding your customers, and embracing foundational work can lead to sustainable growth and exceptional success. Don't miss out! Some areas we explore in this episode include: The Power of Understanding Employees: How Karl Becker's approach to understanding and addressing an employee's concerns led to substantial sales improvements in a company.Human-Centric Sales Approach: The importance of deeply understanding customers and solving their holistic needs rather than focusing on ego and transactions.Iceberg Selling Framework: The concept of iceberg selling, focusing on uncovering the hidden aspects of deals and understanding the whole picture behind customer interactions.Integration of Technology and Human Connection: Balancing technology and automation in sales while maintaining a human-centric approach.Improving CRM Utilization: Leveraging existing leads in a CRM and involving the sales team in redefining the sales process for better revenue growth.Empathy and Patience in Sales: The significance of salespeople being empathetic, patient, and willing to try different approaches when traditional methods aren't working.Lifetime Value and Relationship Building: Focusing on building long-term relationships with clients rather than rushing to close deals.Foundational Work for Sustainable Growth: The importance of foundational work and intentional steps for achieving sustainable growth, analogous to catching a baseball.Organizational Alignment: Ensuring alignment between organizational values and sales strategies through core values, transparency, and accountability.Mindset Shifts for Success: The impact of mindset shifts (lifetime value, being of service, ownership, and drivership) within organizations and their role in driving significant improvements in sales and overall success.And much, much more ...
45m
25/06/2024

How hypergrowth strategies and conflict resolution drive fast growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success, where we delve into the secrets behind driving consistent and monumental growth in the business-to-business landscape. In today's episode, host Vinay Koshy engages with the dynamic Kurt Uhlir, a visionary in marketing and leadership strategies. Ever wonder how healthy conflict can catalyze breakthrough innovations or why early communication in team dynamics can be the magic ingredient for sustained success? Kurt Uhlir expertly demystifies these essential components, sharing decades of experience and insights from his unexpected mentor, Judson Green. We dive deep into the transformational journey of hypergrowth, relying on documented processes and scalable strategies. Are you curious about how aligning sales, marketing, and engineering can reshape customer perceptions and skyrocket your efficiency? Kurt has firsthand answers. From dissecting HubSpot's marketing challenges to unleashing the power of unified customer views and impact-driven storytelling, we leave no stone unturned. Kurt's strategic approach to fostering a supportive culture is a game-changer for leaders navigating the murky waters of risk, control, and business outcomes. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, from semantic SEO experiments to the visionary use of AI in marketing. Ready to revolutionize your B2B success? Tune in and transform how you approach growth, leadership, and innovation. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Encouragement of Healthy Conflict: The importance of early communication and resolution of disagreements to prevent future animosity and improve decision-making.Strategies for Hypergrowth in B2B Companies: Focus on scalable strategies, documentation of operations, and systemized approaches to drive consistent and significant growth.Top Challenges in Marketing Strategy**: Addressing issues like sales and marketing alignment, hiring top talent, and creating effective lead-generating content.Contribution over Attribution in Marketing: The need to shift from last-click attribution to understanding the broader contribution of marketing efforts.Importance of Branding and Intangibles: Focusing on long-term goals and gaining CEO and CFO buy-in for marketing efforts by emphasizing brand value and intangibles.Approach to Leadership and Conflict Resolution: Aligning business outcomes, creating frameworks for healthy conflict, and ensuring congruence with past agreements.Unified Customer View and Data Access: The significance of marketers having access to comprehensive customer data to understand and meet customer needs effectively.Experimentation with New Marketing Technologies: Employing a "mad scientist" approach to testing new strategies and tools, such as semantic and topical SEO.Storytelling in Marketing and Sales: Curating the best stories for customers, using their language, and setting the right narrative to reduce customer churn.Systems Mindset in Marketing and Investments: Aligning marketing tasks with company outcomes, securing investments by tracking leading indicators, and using a systemized approach to build relationships with future clients.And much, much more...
50m
18/06/2024

How to get reliable pipeline growth via B2B marketing strategies

In this episode of the Predictable B2B Success Podcast, host Vinay Koshy speaks with Avetis Ghazaryan, tech entrepreneur and CEO of Growth Hunter, about strategies early-stage startups can employ to drive exponential growth. ATI discusses the concept of momentum marketing and how it can help early-stage startups achieve reliable and repeatable pipeline growth. Key areas covered include: The significance of understanding buyer preferences.Aligning marketing efforts with high congregation moments.The importance of proven playbooks. Avetis also shares insights from his journey in creating Growth Hunter, a central hub for integrating high-impact marketing strategies into startup operations. The episode highlights startups' challenges with customer acquisition, lifetime value calculations, and staying updated with buyer needs. But that's not all; Avetis shares invaluable tools and insights on bridging the communication gap between businesses and their customers, ensuring your messaging hits the mark every time. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and insider tips to elevate your B2B success. So, grab your notepad and get ready to transform your marketing game with Avetis Ghazaryan on Predictable B2B Success! Some topics we explore in this episode include: Understanding the Buyer's Perspective: The importance of consistent market research in B2B marketing to understand buyers' top-of-mind concerns.Role of Playbooks in Pipeline Growth: The significance of using proven and tested playbooks to achieve reliable and repeatable pipeline growth, along with the implementation challenges.Staying Connected with Thought Leaders: The need to stay updated and adapt strategies by connecting with thought leaders and joining collective communities.Resources Provided by Growth Hunter: How Growth Hunter serves as a resource hub for B2B experts to exchange playbooks and ideas, aiding in understanding buyer preferences.Differentiation Between Trends and Momentums in SaaS: How SaaS professionals can navigate the difference between trends and significant market momentums.Demand Generation During High Congregation Moments: The opportunity presented by significant events or themes that engage prospects and allow the introduction of relevant solutions.Momentum Marketing Explained: The process of identifying high congregation moments and aligning messaging and strategies within that context.Primary Tools for Understanding Buyers' Concerns: Tools like ZoomInfo data, third-party intent data, first-party CRM data, customer interviews, and attending conferences to grasp what is top-of-mind for buyers.Launching Growth Hunter: Avetis Ghazaryan's journey of leveraging momentum marketing before founding Growth Hunter and his focus on aligning marketing efforts to buyer preferences.Implementing Momentum Marketing in SaaS: Challenges and steps involved in identifying and incorporating momentum marketing strategies for predictable revenue growth in SaaS.And much, much more...
43m
11/06/2024

How to use the right B2B SEO strategies to drive consistent growth: Tips on professional tools, team skills, and collaboration

In this episode of the Predictable B2B Success podcast, host Vinay Koshy talks with seasoned online marketing expert Astrid Kramer. Astrid delves into the crucial intersection of SEO and Customer Experience (CX), emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. She discusses the significance of integrating SEO from the planning stages of product development, the evolving nature of SEO and its misconceptions, and the role of effective communication within and outside the organization. Astrid also touches on leveraging tools, data analysis, and AI to refine SEO strategies. Key takeaways include: The necessity of breaking down silos.Enabling in-house SEO capabilities.Understanding the broader impact of SEO on brand reputation and user satisfaction. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Discover why integrating SEO into your entire organization—from editorial teams to web developers—can revolutionize your brand's visibility. Learn how emerging platforms like TikTok are morphing into significant search engines and why customer stories are golden for your website content. With Astrid's pragmatic advice on making images smaller for faster load times and insights into leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom. Astrid also delves into the untapped power of interdisciplinary collaboration, weaving together SEO, social media, public relations, and customer service into a cohesive strategy. Tune in to learn how optimizing your business for search engines can become an integral part of your product strategy and customer experience. This is an episode you won't want to miss! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Professional SEO Tools: The importance of using tools like Semrush for keyword research and competitor analysis.SEO Misconceptions: Debunking common myths and emphasizing the need to work with search engines and integrate SEO into website planning.Internal Team Education: Training internal teams (web developers, editorial staff, public relations) to include SEO practices in their tasks to reduce reliance on external SEO experts.Improving Website Performance: Specific advice on making website images smaller and faster for better SEO performance.Effective SEO Consultancy: Finding a trustworthy SEO consultancy that prioritizes client-specific needs and resources.Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The need for collaboration between SEO and other disciplines like SCA, social media, public relations, customer service, and sales to develop effective SEO strategies.Leveraging Social Media for SEO: The growing significance of social media platforms like TikTok as search engines and incorporating customer questions and stories into content.SEO for Large Corporations and Publishers: Challenges faced in implementing SEO in big enterprises, focusing on the importance of educating the IT department about SEO.Technical SEO Priorities: Prioritizing technical SEO issues such as status codes, redirecting error pages, and optimizing images for large websites.Customer Experience (CX) and SEO: The increasing importance of customer experience in SEO, with Google rewarding websites that provide better CX.And much, much more...
48m
04/06/2024

How to unlock customer-centric innovation to drive growth via B2B marketing

In this Predictable B2B Success Podcast episode, host Vinay Koshy speaks with Julie Brown, VP of Industry and Customer Experience at Johnson Controls. Julie shares insights from her 24 years of experience in general management, product development, and marketing across various industries. The discussion delves into strategies for achieving profitable revenue growth in the B2B sector, focusing on customer needs, accurate data, and the importance of aligning business operations with value disciplines. Julie also highlights the challenges of traditional market segmentation, the role of leadership in fostering a customer-centric culture, and the significance of storytelling in communicating business value. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Innovation Metaphor: Julie Brown's metaphor of starting a fire in the rain to describe the innovation process, emphasizing the need for nurturing, patience, and understanding.Impact of B2B Marketing: The role of B2B marketing in driving organic double-digit growth for businesses.Leadership and Culture: The importance of leadership in creating a culture of open communication, learning from mistakes, and allowing for experimentation within organizations.Business Language for Marketers: The necessity for marketers to communicate in the language of business, focusing on profitability, revenue, and ROI to gain credibility.Customer-Centric Approach: The significance of being market-focused and customer-centric, as learned from Julie Brown's experience at Alcoa.Market Segmentation: Challenges with traditional market segmentation practices and the suggestion to segment markets based on customer needs rather than firmographics.Uncovering Customer Needs: Approaches like jobs to be done, customer journey mapping, and ethnography to understand the "why" behind customer behavior.Value Disciplines: Differentiating businesses through value disciplines such as price, operational excellence, and customer intimacy, and how understanding customer needs can guide these strategies.Humility and Course Correction: The importance of having good data, the humility to admit mistakes, and the courage to embrace change for quicker course correction and transformation.Explaining Marketing Investments: The challenge of explaining marketing investments to CEOs and CFOs, emphasizing the need for marketers to understand financial statements and use storytelling to make data relatable and understandable.And much, much more...
53m
28/05/2024

How to use customer centric strategies to drive growth and differentiation

In this episode of the Predictable B2B Success Podcast, Vinay Koshy interviews Andrew Kahl, CEO of Backbox, on the vital role of customer success in business growth. Andrew shares insights from his extensive experience in customer service and success, emphasizing the significance of understanding customer needs, problem-solving, and the strategic balance between people and processes in delivering exceptional customer service. The conversation highlights Backbox's approach to network and security automation, the impact of customer retention on business success, and the evolving role of technology, including AI, in enhancing customer experiences. Tune in to learn how understanding the "why" in customer stories can be a game-changer for your B2B success. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Metrics tracked for customer success: net retention, gross retention, CSAT, net promoter scoresLeading indicators for customer engagement: unsolicited inbound communication, customer inquiriesFocus on getting customers up and running quickly to build credibilityImportance of customer advocacy and using customer stories for PRInfluence of various platforms to communicate customer success storiesEmphasis on human engagement over solely focusing on metricsInfluence of Tom Mendoza and traditional values on caring for peopleImportance of a human-centric, customer-centric mindset for company growthFuture plans including leveraging AI for network complexitiesImportance of critical thinking skills and communication in problem-solving and customer careAnd much, much more...
43m
21/05/2024

How to overcome b2b sales challenges and drive growth with deal coaching

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of stalled sales deals, the critical role of translating technology features into compelling business cases, and practical strategies for coaching sales teams toward success. Special guest Mark Phinick, an award-winning enterprise software deal coach and master storyteller, shares his extensive experience in deal coaching and provides actionable advice for B2B tech companies aiming for revenue growth. Imagine a world where 72% of your new sales opportunities don't stall midway through the pipeline, and complex internal policies and procedures don't bog down your sales reps. What if you could shift from talking in vendor terms to speaking directly to the C-suite, captivating them with compelling business cases? Mark Phinick shares his insights and provides practical steps to transform stalled sales processes into successful, profit-boosting deals. He delves into the art of executive storytelling, the importance of strategic diagnostic questions, and how to bridge the skills gap in relationship building. We'll explore real-world examples, including how Mark empowered a technical evaluator to win a major deal by integrating diverse systems, saving a client millions of dollars globally. Prepare to equip your sales team with invaluable, hands-on strategies, gain insights on personal branding through LinkedIn, and unlock the keys to becoming a charismatic 'rainmaker'. Join us for an enlightening conversation that's guaranteed to elevate your sales game and drive your business forward. So, get ready for an exciting ride, and let's dive in! Some areas we explore in this episode include:  Complex Internal Policies and Procedures: Impact on stalled and lost deals, highlighting that 20% of these outcomes are due to internal complexities.Sales Pipeline Stalling: Discussion on the high percentage (72%) of new sales opportunities that stall in the middle to late stages of the pipeline.Sales Pipeline Process Definition: Importance of a well-defined sales pipeline process to prevent deals from stalling.Sales Training Gaps: The shift needed from feature/functionality training to skills that focus on relationship building and understanding customer decision-making.C-Suite Communication: Strategies for translating technology features and functions into compelling business cases that resonate with senior executives.Executive Storytelling: Emphasis on using storytelling and anecdotes to engage future customers and demonstrate value.LinkedIn Personal Branding: Importance of a professional and effective LinkedIn profile as a valuable tool for showcasing client success stories.Hands-On Deal Coaching: Mark's approach to live deal coaching, workshops, and hands-on involvement to distinguish from traditional sales strategies.Addressing Technical Evaluators: Coaching technical evaluators to build solid business cases and align with stakeholders.Cash Flow Focus: Discussion on cash flow importance for early-stage software companies, emphasizing revenue growth, cost-cutting, and deal progression.And much, much more...
43m
14/05/2024

How femtech startups are bridging the gap in womens health and driving growth

Welcome to another captivating episode of Predictable B2B Success, where we delve into the dynamic world of femtech with our distinguished guest, Capucine Cogne. Capucine, a seasoned freelance writer and copywriter, brings a unique perspective as a fervent advocate for women's health through her platform "Understand Your Cycle." Today, we uncover the critical gaps and stark disparities within women's health, which have led to a lack of research, underfunding, and insufficient solutions, particularly in conditions like endometriosis that affect a staggering 10% of women worldwide. Despite its enormous market potential, femtech is often overlooked, struggling with VC funding and public dialogue due to prevailing biases and taboos. Join us as Capucine takes us on her personal journey into femtech, a path paved with challenges and triumphs. Her efforts in raising period poverty awareness, from local communities to national headlines, have left an indelible mark. From mastering SEO to establish brand credibility to navigating the complexities of MedTech marketing, Capucine's journey provides a wealth of insights into building a femtech brand that educates, connects, and empowers. Tune in to discover how the intersection of branding, strategic content, and heartfelt storytelling can revolutionize perceptions and lay the groundwork for a healthier future in women's health. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  Challenges and Underfunding in Women's Health: Capucine Cogne discusses the broad challenges that the femtech sector faces, including underfunding and lack of research, specifically highlighting areas like endometriosis.The Need for Increased Education and Awareness: The importance of spreading knowledge about women's health issues, such as the menstrual cycle phases, and how understanding these can impact mood and behavior management.Social Media and Marketing Strategies for Femtech: Exploring different approaches to navigate censorship and leverage personal brands on social media platforms to promote women's health.Success Stories in Addressing Period Poverty: Highlighting specific achievements like the notable campaigns in Morocco and other awareness initiatives that have made significant local impacts.Challenges in Sharing Customer Experiences: Discussing the sensitive nature of personal health stories, especially in fertility treatments, and how cultural factors influence sharing.Growth and Potential of the Femtech Market: An analysis of the femtech market size, its growth projection, and the evolving opportunities within this sector.The Role of Strategic Branding in Femtech: Capucine emphasizes the crucial role of strategic messaging and branding in building loyalty and enhancing business development in the femtech industry.Integration of Visuals and Messaging in Branding: Examples of how effectively integrating visuals and verbal messaging can boost brand recognition and user engagement.Venture Capital Challenges in Femtech: Discussing the disconnect within the venture capital industry towards femtech, influenced by gender dynamics and taboos around women's health.Vision for the Future of Women's Health: Capucine outlines what comprehensive education and resource distribution would ideally bring to women's health, aiming for advancements in research, product development, and societal health outcomes.And much, much more...
43m
07/05/2024

Harnessing AI for better B2B engagement on LinkedIn: Insights from Engage AIs Jason Tan

This episode of Predictable B2B Success delves into practical strategies for engaging potential clients on LinkedIn, highlighting the value of personalization and industry insights in communication. Jason Tan, the founder of Engage AI, shares how his platform assists users in augmenting conversations across multiple channels by leveraging generative AI and large language models, enhancing B2B interactions and prospecting efforts.  Jason discusses the inception of Engage AI, inspired by his challenges in B2B sales and the realization of the importance of initiating meaningful conversations. He emphasizes Engage AI's approach of using AI to suggest but not replace human interaction in the comment drafting process, aiming to maintain authenticity.  Are you finding traditional prospecting methods like cold calls and emails to be less effective? Jason shares eye-opening insights on how incorporating AI, particularly through platforms like LinkedIn, can significantly boost client acquisition and engage passive candidates. With an impressive 11% increase in client acquisition and an 8% rise in securing top talents, the results are hard to ignore. It's not just about the numbers; it's about the story. Jason underscores the pivotal role of customer narratives in fostering trust and demonstrates how AI should enhance, not replace, human efforts in crafting these narratives. Whether you're a small business owner or part of a larger enterprise, this conversation will shed light on the practical benefits of AI in business processes and how to use technology to foster authentic connections. Tune in to discover how you can revolutionize your B2B strategies with AI and create more meaningful, productive business relationships. The podcast covers practical advice on leveraging AI responsibly and effectively in B2B sales and customer service, underscoring the potential of AI in enriching customer engagement and driving revenue growth. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  Challenges in Traditional Recruitment Practices: Discussing the ineffectiveness of traditional methods such as phone calls, emails, and in-person meetings in recruitment agencies.Integration and Advantages of AI in Recruitment: How agencies use Engage AI to improve client acquisition and engagement with passive candidates on LinkedIn.Customer Narratives and Trust: The importance of building trust and credibility through customer narratives and maintaining human elements in conversations.Internal Application of AI Before Customer-Facing Deployment: Advising B2B companies to integrate AI internally to become comfortable with the technology before applying it in customer-facing areas.AI in Prospecting and Sales: Exploring the under-discussed benefits of AI in enhancing prospecting activities and sales processes.Generative AI for Customer Service: Utilization of AI to automatically generate emails and improve communication in customer service.Accessibility and Cost-effectiveness of AI Solutions: Emphasizing how AI tools have become more accessible and economically feasible for SMBs.Augmentation vs. Automation: The idea is that AI should augment rather than replace human efforts and keep human insight as part of AI-driven processes.Building Relationships and Community Engagement: Strategies for initiating and cultivating professional relationships through targeted interactions and content on platforms like LinkedIn.Customer-Centric Platform Development: Importance of speaking with users and customers to understand their needs and enhance the user experience, referencing Steve Jobs' philosophy of simplicity.And much, much more ... Check out the LinkedIn events being run by Engage AI here - https://www.linkedin.com/events/7185801973495967745/comments/
47m
30/04/2024

How to use AI-enhanced video marketing to drive growth

In this episode of the Predictable B2B Success podcast, hosted by Vinay Koshy and brought to you by Sproutworth.com, guest Vikram Chalana, CEO of Pictory and a pioneer in AI-driven content creation, discusses the transformative potential of video content in B2B marketing.  With an impressive background, from a research scientist to co-founding Winshuttle and now leading Pictory, Chalana shares insights into the shift towards video marketing, stressing its critical role in enhancing user understanding, increasing sales, and improving ROI. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of creating short-form videos, leveraging AI for content creation, and the importance of companies becoming media entities to drive growth and thought leadership.  Chalana also highlights user-generated content, repurposing existing content, and the power of democratizing technology to enable non-experts to create impactful videos. The episode concludes with the importance of incorporating videos into the core content marketing strategy and leveraging platforms like Pictory to overcome production barriers and enhance content engagement. Some of the areas we explore in this episode include:  The Role of AI in Video Marketing: Vikram highlights how AI, particularly technologies from OpenAI like ChatGPT, has significantly contributed to Pictory's growth by enhancing the platform's capabilities in video creation and refining search algorithms for visuals.Importance of Short Form Video Content: The discussion emphasizes the value of creating short video clips, mainly because users frequently watch videos on mute and because short, engaging content is effective on social platforms.Strategies for Video Content Repurposing: Vikram and Vinay discuss the benefits of repurposing long-form content into shorter video segments to maximize content reach and maintain audience engagement.Challenges in Video Production: They address common challenges users face in creating videos, such as the need for perfection, time constraints, and ensuring a consistent style and branding across content produced using AI tools.Use of Video in B2B Marketing: The episode covers how businesses can leverage video for B2B marketing, including creating customer testimonial videos and the pivotal role videos play in influencing purchasing decisions.Content Marketing and Thought Leadership through Videos: There's a strong focus on how videos contribute to content marketing and thought leadership, highlighting trends toward businesses functioning as media companies.Democratization of Video Creation: Vikram discusses the importance of making video creation accessible for more people, envisioning it as a standard element in office productivity suites, similar to traditional document and presentation tools.Growth and Differentiation Strategies for Pictory: Insights are provided into Pictory's market strategies in a competitive (red ocean) environment, including bundling multiple solutions and using diverse marketing channels to stand out.Importance of Context and Value in Video Clips: The episode addresses the necessity of providing adequate context to ensure the message remains clear and the content is valuable to the audience.Video SEO and Engagement Metrics: Discussion on how video content significantly enhances SEO, with insights into statistics showing the impact of video on sales, user understanding, and overall engagement on digital platforms.And much, much more...
42m
23/04/2024

Persuading Through the Page: Joshua Lisec on Establishing Authority and Crafting Lead-Generating Nonfiction Books

Welcome to Predictable B2B Success, where we explore the strategies that fuel thriving B2B businesses. In today's episode, we're thrilled to introduce Joshua Lisec, the go-to ghostwriter for the Internet's favorite experts and a maestro of persuasive nonfiction that turns readers into leads.  Imagine having a silent ambassador that works tirelessly, convincing your ideal clients of your superiority without you having to say a word. Joshua is here to unveil how a well-crafted book can act as your 24/7 salesperson, outperforming any business card or digital ad with its sublime persuasive power.  Get ready to discover what 68% of B2B businesses are missing in lead generation and why 53% of marketers might be investing their budgets in strategies that could fall short. Joshua doesn't just share tactics; he shares a revolution in B2B thought leadership and lead conversion.  From the emotional resonance of risk handling to the granular details that make each story pop, this episode is a treasure trove for leaders looking to create a lasting impact. Tune in and let Joshua Lisec guide you through the intricacies of harnessing the written word to redefine success in your business. Stay with us, and let's transform your expertise into a compelling, lead-generating powerhouse! Some areas we explore in this episode include: The Role of Emotional Persuasion in B2B: Joshua Lisec discusses how reorganizing thoughts and addressing emotional aspects can impact the persuasive process in business settings.Mitigating Perceived Risks: The conversation includes strategies to alleviate the perceived risks of hiring a vendor, a critical step in building trust with potential B2B clients.Creating Lasting Impacts with Books: The episode explores the use of books as a long-term lead generation and persuasion tool rather than temporary trends or marketing materials.Audience Building Strategies: Before publishing, Joshua highlights the importance of building an audience through various platforms such as social media and influencers to ensure maximum book traction.Unconventional Insights in Content: Joshua encourages tapping into unique stories and thinking counterintuitively to offer fresh insights in a niche, which can differentiate leaders and their content.Books as Superior Marketing Collateral: The episode discusses the advantages of having a book at events and its superiority over traditional business cards and other marketing materials.The Value Proposition of Books: Key points include the importance of book presentation, value proposition, and its perpetual reminder of value to the prospect.Structuring Nonfiction Books for Business: Joshua talks about using templates and direct response copywriting techniques to create nonfiction books with commercial viability.Embedding Sales Processes in Books: The episode covers the importance of accurately capturing an author's sales process and unique system to communicate their value proposition effectively.The Effectiveness of Books in B2B Lead Generation: Joshua Lisec and the host discuss the significance of books in altering prospects' beliefs and priorities, supported by social proof and case studies, and books' broader role in the lead generation landscape for B2B businesses.And much, much more...
48m
16/04/2024

How to use AI video production for corporate training to drive growth

Welcome to Predictable B2B Success, where we empower you to achieve consistent growth in your B2B ventures through insightful conversations with industry experts. In this episode, we speak to special guest Vitalii Romanchenko, whose innovative ideas transform how businesses educate and develop their workforce.  In this episode, Vitalii, the CEO of a trailblazing generative AI startup, unveils the secret behind its groundbreaking approach to personalized video content creation. Eli, their platform, is another tool and a game-changer that has revolutionized corporate learning. It generates video training content programmatically, slashing production times and costs and scaling up engagement like never before.  Imagine the possibilities of slashing your content creation budget by thousands and boosting learning efficiency. Listen in as Vitalii reveals how their North Star metric – render minutes per paid account – is changing the face of corporate training. He also shares the obstacles they've conquered in the AI landscape and their vision for a community-driven ecosystem in the video education market. Stay with us as we explore the journey of prioritizing speed and customer feedback, the value of actionable advice for aspiring tech entrepreneurs, and the pivotal role of AI in shaping the future of corporate learning. Get ready to dive into a world where technology, strategy, and human learning collide only on Predictable B2B Success. Some areas we explore in this episode include: The importance of fast delivery and responsive hypothesis testing informed by customer feedback.The rise of interactivity and real-time communication as tools for learning and development.The evolving capabilities of AI in generating realistic videos and automated gestures.Strategies for entrepreneurs in tech and AI to take action and stay committed to their vision.The role and efficiency of video in corporate learning and development strategies.Eli's approach to personalized video content creation at scale for corporate training.The significance of video engagement and cost savings for businesses utilizing Eli's platform.Utilizing community building and an open feedback loop to improve products and foster user engagement.Inbound marketing and user success stories as methods for scaling and building customer trust.Future directions for product development, including interactive content and digital L&D assistance.And much, much more...
41m
09/04/2024

How to use business intelligence to remove data complexity and drive growth

Welcome to another episode of Predictable B2B Success, where we explore the insights and stories that propel B2B ventures to predictable growth. I'm Vinay Koshy, your host. In this episode, we're joined by an exceptional guest: Ryan Janssen, CEO of Zenlytic, a groundbreaking business intelligence tool at the cutting edge of self-serve BI technology. Get ready to explore the rapidly evolving data landscape as Ryan unveils the transformative power of modern data tools and how they're shaping the future of business intelligence. We'll delve into why understanding changes in business metrics prevents potential pitfalls and opens up opportunities for exponential growth through nuanced insights.  Discover with us how small increments in data efficiency can lead to colossal impacts on a company's success and why the roles of data teams are shifting from mundane requests to strategic, high-leverage activities. Ryan also shares his journey from establishing a start-up to navigating the waters of venture capital and how staying technical with a passion for data helped him steer his company toward innovation. So tighten your seatbelts as we chart a path through the "decade of data," and prepare to be enlightened about the power and challenges of BI tools that are reshaping how companies leverage data for predictable success. This is not just an episode for the data-savvy; it's a vital listen for any B2B operator looking to harness the full potential of their data analytics. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  The role of customer stories and social proof in driving SaaS growth and maturity.Strategies for driving disruptive technology adoption include leveraging early adopters and signing deals quickly.The transformative impact of artificial intelligence on business efficiency, creativity, and its underestimation due to past hypes.The evolution of data teams and the shift from handling ad hoc requests to higher-value analytics facilitated by modern data stacks and AI.The challenge of dashboards in traditional business intelligence and the push for reducing ad hoc data requests through new usage patterns.The emergence and capabilities of large language models (LLMs) in business intelligence reduce data requests by as much as 80-90%.The semantic layer is important in ensuring accuracy and context for both human users and language models when accessing and interpreting data.User-friendly data analysis using chatbots and guidance tools, like Zenlytic's Zoe, that emulate conversations with a data engineer.The significance of data skills and data-driven decision-making within businesses, along with the statistics surrounding BI usage and bad data costs.Ryan Janssen's background, the founding of Zenlytic, its fundraising success, and the vision for Zenlytic to make data analysis more accessible and intuitive.And much, much more ....
52m
02/04/2024

How to use emotional targeting to drive growth and customer connections

In this episode of "Predictable B2B Success," we explore the confluence of emotional intelligence and strategic marketing in the B2B landscape. Our special guest, Sophia Dagnon, a renowned strategist at GetUplift, brings a fresh perspective on decoding customer behaviors and aligning them with business goals. Have you ever wondered why some strategies fall flat while others resonate and drive incredible growth? Sophia unravels this mystery by emphasizing the often-overlooked emotional drivers that influence decision-making in the tech sector. She explains the intricate dance between tactics and overarching strategies and how leadership buy-in shapes the trajectory of successful messaging and marketing. Discover how to elicit powerful emotional responses without directly asking about them, the nuances of aligning emotional insights with hard KPIs, and the secret sauce behind improving conversion rates by tapping into customer emotions. Sophia offers a treasure trove of practical approaches using case studies, including how one client achieved a remarkable boost in conversions and views by understanding and catering to distinct customer personas. Tune in for an episode that will transform your approach to B2B marketing and equip you with the tools to forge deeper customer connections and drive predictable business success. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  Strategy vs Tactics: Aligning the right tactics with overarching business strategies for effective B2B growth.Emotional Targeting Methodology: Understanding and aligning customer and team emotions with leadership direction.Customer Behavior: Employing emotional insights to gauge customer perceptions and behavior towards products.Leadership Buy-in: The importance of c-suite executives' buy-in and role in message testing and marketing direction.Team Perception & Surveys: Incorporating internal team beliefs through surveys and interviews to align with customer insights.Customer Insights Challenges: Techniques to engage with and gain valuable customer insights, even when difficult.Emotional Marketing & KPIs: Linking emotional targeting with company KPIs, including methods to improve conversion rates.Consistency in Internal Communication: The significance of regularly sharing test updates and results with relevant stakeholders.Utilizing Existing Research: Building upon previous customer research and tests by collaborating with cross-functional teams.Emotional Impact on Consumer Behavior: Discussing how emotional marketing resonates with B2B consumers and influences purchasing decisions.And much, much more...
48m
26/03/2024

How startup science ensures success drives growth and helps with exits

Welcome to another episode of "Predictable B2B Success," the podcast designed to empower B2B entrepreneurs and leaders with insights and strategies for predictable growth. Today, we're thrilled to have the remarkable Gregory Shepard with us, a seasoned startup savant whose vision has reshaped the entrepreneurial landscape. In his two decades of navigating the startup ecosystem, Gregory has orchestrated a staggering 14 liquidity events and co-founded Boss Capital Partners and BOSS Startup Science. His story is not just one of financial success but of overcoming personal challenges, including dyslexia and autism, which propelled him to master the art of pattern recognition—a skill that has profoundly influenced his unique approach to business. As you dive into this episode, prepare to uncover Gregory's groundbreaking strategies, prioritizing the endgame right from the start. He'll unravel the intricate tapestry of startup success, pinpointing why 9 out of 10 startups face failure and how his methodologies aim to turn those odds around. From the nuances of altruistic capitalism to the power of leading KPIs over lagging indicators, we're about to embark on a journey that promises to equip you with the knowledge to steer your company towards predictable, sustainable growth. Hold onto your seats and get ready for a mind-expanding conversation with the master of startup science, Gregory Shepard, right here on "Predictable B2B Success." Some areas we explore in this episode include:  The mission of StartUp Science and its global reach.The importance of planning an exit strategy for startup founders.The role of standardization and constant optimization in business growth.The significance of leading KPIs for proactive business management.Introduction to the BOSS methodology and valuation drivers.The concept of altruistic capitalism to achieve positive environmental and social outcomes.Gregory Shepard's journey and expertise in startup entrepreneurship.Analysis of the high failure rate of startups and measures to improve success rates.The practical advice on how founders can align their startups with potential acquirers early on.Gregory Shepard's insights into the common pitfalls contributing to startup failure and how to overcome them.And much, much more...
46m
19/03/2024

How to leverage data and AI to build better relationships and drive growth

Welcome back to Predictable B2B Success, the podcast that dives deep into the strategies behind successful business-to-business ventures. In today's highly anticipated episode, we're joined by Riaz Kanani, a trailblazer in advertising and marketing technology with over 20 years of experience. Get ready to discover cutting-edge insights as Riaz unravels the intricacies of account-based advertising and its pivotal role in today's noisy marketplace. Have you ever considered why your traditional marketing efforts may falter in an era of rapidly evolving buyer behavior? Riaz discusses how personalized experiences and a shift in marketing strategies can counteract these challenges. He also sheds light on the potential of AI agents to revolutionize how businesses engage their audience. Host Vinay Koshy questions the validity of conventional B2B approaches and explores the creative guerrilla tactics necessary to thrive in modern marketing environments. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about B2B success as Riaz predicts the future of marketing and provides actionable steps to navigate these changes. Are you leveraging your data effectively? Is your personal branding geared for consultative success? Do you know how to connect with potential clients? Tune in to find out and elevate your marketing game. Some areas we explore in this podcast include: The Role and Effectiveness of Account-Based AdvertisingThe Importance of Personal Branding in B2B Sales and DevelopmentStrategies for Engaging Potential Buyers with LinkedIn AdvertisingCrafting Marketing Plans for Individual Accounts in ABMThe Importance of Quality Data in ABM CampaignsThe Evolution of Buyer Behaviors and Its Impact on MarketingUtilization of Artificial Intelligence and GPT Technology in MarketingThe Importance of Events and Face-to-Face Interactions in a Digital WorldBuilding and Scalability Challenges in the B2B EnvironmentLeveraging Communities and Intent Data for Revenue Growth in B2B MarketingAnd much, much more...
44m
12/03/2024

How to master the art of technology partnerships to drive growth

Welcome to another transformative episode of Predictable B2B Success! I'm your host, Vinay Koshy, and in this captivating conversation, we have the strategic mastermind Varag Gharibjanian with us. Prepare to dive deep into the future of computing, spatial platforms, and the genuine impact of AI on our world. Varag doesn't just theorize; he brings experience and a treasure trove of actionable insights to reduce partnership risks and drive revenue in the tech landscape. Today, you'll get an insider's look at achieving synergy between business models and technology partners and how the timing, location, security, scalability, and cultural alignment can make or break your strategic alliances. But that's not all; Varag will challenge your thinking by emphasizing the cultural dynamics within startups and the need to codify them. Could startups be dangerously neglecting market needs over perfecting their tech? Varag argues that understanding market fit is as crucial as the innovation itself. We'll explore his approach to building a go-to-market strategy that works and unpack the essence of customer stories in driving growth. This episode is packed with gems to reshape your view on partnerships, revenue growth, and the critical balance of technology and market realities. Tune in for a thought-provoking journey with Varag Gharibjanian that's bound to leave you itching for more. Let's get set for a ride into the future of B2B success! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Integration of Technology and Product: Discussing the importance of integrating advanced technology with the actual product to make it functional and user-friendly.Strategic Technology Partnerships: Emphasizing how to effectively scope out technical capabilities versus market expectations and the need for a balanced approach to technology and business aspects in partnership development.Revenue Acceleration Strategies: Outlining key components of revenue success such as average revenue per customer, recurring revenue, and cost of revenue optimization.Customer Stories and Case Studies: The significance of documenting and leveraging early customer success stories to build credibility and illustrate business benefits.Sales Outreach Process: Detailing a timeline for sales outreach, including preparation, active outreach, and closing stages to test the market efficiently.Founder Involvement in B2B Sales: Advocating for the founder's active role in early strategic agreement negotiations and maintaining ongoing partnership nurturing.AI and Spatial Computing Potential: Discussing the disruptive impact of AI in the short term and the long-term potentials of spatial computing merging digital and physical spheres.Fundraising and Investor Engagement: Providing guidance on preparing for investor meetings, pitching, and strategically aligning with the right investors.Startup Culture Codification: Highlighting the need for startups to establish, understand, and codify their culture for long-term success.Humility in Product Development: Advising founders to concentrate on creating a product that customers value and are willing to purchase, emphasizing product-market fit over a fundraising-first approach.And much, much more ...
48m
05/03/2024

How to Embrace People-First Leadership to Drive Revenue Growth

Welcome to Predictable B2B Success, your go-to spot to dive deep into the strategies propelling business growth. In this captivating episode, we're joined by the inquisitive mind of Doug Utberg, founder of People First Leaders, an organization reshaping the cultural fabric of business in America. As we navigate the complexities of contract restructuring and the nuances of budget management, Doug spurs a thought-provoking conversation on the delicate balance between human connection and corporate scalability.  Doug doesn't hold back in challenging conventional recruitment practices, advocating for leaders to leverage their networks to uncover hidden gems in the job market. Doug and Vinay dissect how purpose-driven organizations can act as ethical anchors in pursuit of success while achieving phenomenal financial outcomes.  But beyond the strategies, this dialogue takes an impassioned turn towards the value of stories, the power of diversity in fostering innovation, and the vital role soft skills play in nurturing a thriving workplace. This episode isn't just an exploration of business acumen; it's a rallying cry for a people-first revolution that promises to transform how we think about productivity, leadership, and success. So, tune in to discover the secrets behind forging deeper connections and driving authentic growth in the B2B landscape. Some areas we cover in this episode include: The specialization and expertise of contract renegotiation and savings.The impact of leadership behavior on company culture and authentic leadership practices.Strategies for tackling budget overages in system deployments.The importance of inclusion, people-first focus, and connecting skills across domains in recruitment and employment.The concept of People First Leaders and the impact on organizational culture and employee productivity.The idea of "value first" in business and delivering superior use value to customers.The effectiveness of learning from failures and unwritten organizational rules for new hires.The role of analytics versus stories in understanding organizational health and employee perceptions.The balance of soft and hard skills in hiring and leadership and assessing values and soft skills during the hiring process.The benefits of a people-first approach and creating emotional security in the workplace for enhancing productivity and job satisfaction.And much, much more...
49m
27/02/2024

How to use emotional selling and magnetic brand identity to drive growth

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Predictable B2B Success," where we seek to empower B2B leaders and marketers to achieve predictable growth through strategies, systems, and actionable steps. I'm your host, Vinay Koshy, and in today's episode, we're diving into the intriguing world of emotional selling and storytelling with our guest, James Bond—not the superspy from the movies, but a master marketer with undercover tactics for business success. James brings a license to skill with a remarkable flair for engaging clients and customers by leveraging the brain's emotional triggers. With a backstory as compelling as any 007 plot—we're taking you from the family business trenches, dealing with the mafia, to breakthrough advertising strategies that turned companies from underdogs to market leaders. What's the secret sauce behind branding that sticks? How do reflexive questions build better relationships and drive successful sales? And what can "Nose Noodles" and "Squatty Potty" teach us about memorable marketing? Get ready to uncover these answers and James's transformative approach to communication, all distilled into his game-changing concept of "Brain Glue." Stay tuned for a mission of marketing mastery that will leave you both stirred and shaken. This is one episode you don't want to miss! Some areas we cover in this episode include:  The effectiveness of using simple reflexive questions to engage and improve business relationships.The role of customer stories and testimonials in marketing and how they evoke emotions that influence buying decisions.James Bond's journey from learning business fundamentals to becoming an advertising, sales, and marketing expert.The concept of "Brain Glue" and the significance of emotional resonance in making products and services memorable.Strategies for targeting, messaging, and understanding the audience to stimulate immediate purchases in B2B sales.The use of linguistic tools like alliteration and chiasmus in product names and marketing to create impact and memorability.The critical importance of ongoing sales training and the challenge of maintaining reps' skills beyond the initial training period.The necessity of understanding your product's alternatives and competitors to find emotional differentiators.James Bond's methodology in applying 14 brain triggers to simplify sales processes and enhance customer engagement.Several case studies and success stories demonstrating the implementation of emotional selling strategies leading to significant growth in sales.And much, much more...
1h 9m
20/02/2024

How to explore the boundaries of market demand and pricing to drive growth

Welcome to another fascinating episode of Predictable B2B Success, where we dive into the depths of innovative concepts that shape the future of business. Today, we're joined by Doug Howarth, a marketplace maestro disrupting the traditional economic models with his ground-breaking concept of 'Hypernomics.' Imagine a world where the well-worn paths of supply and demand take a backseat to a model that maps out market territories in more than four dimensions. Doug introduces us to proprietary software poised to revolutionize how small startups and midsize companies approach market analysis and economic trajectory. At the heart of today's conversation is the idea that markets organically reveal their desires, needs, and means – an understanding that Doug's software makes accessible at a strikingly cost-effective rate. As we delve into the storytelling of Doug's epiphany after a shopping trip, we discover how this led to the application of Hypernomics in giants like NASA and Virgin Galactic and how ants' reconnaissance missions mirror market dynamics. Our host, Vinay Koshy, probes the potential AI future Doug envisions and what it could mean for businesses looking to innovate beyond automation. In a sea of data and complexity, join us as we navigate the concepts that will help your business capitalize on market movements and find those niche spaces where competition ceases to exist. This is not just another business discussion; it's a glimpse into a potential future where economic trajectories are as predictable as the dawn. Buckle up; this is an episode you can't afford to skip. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Introduction to Hypernomics: Explaining the proprietary software developed by Doug Howarth and its cost-effective application for companies analyzing market data.Data Analysis and Economic Trajectory: How the software assists businesses in dissecting the market for better product positioning, pricing, and predicting market movements.Innovation Over Automation: Doug Howarth's company focuses on innovation with the potential future integration of AI to enhance the software's capabilities.Understanding Market Limits: Howarth's insight into businesses' lack of awareness about mathematically plotting demand and market boundaries.Case Studies in Market Analysis: Discussing the example of the electric car market and Aeryon's supersonic business jet to underscore traditional market analysis's practical applications and potential pitfalls.The Philosophy of Hypernomics: The theoretical underpinnings of Howarth's approach to economics replacing the traditional supply and demand with a law based on value and demand.Practical Applications of Hyponomics: How large organizations and sectors, like US government entities and aerospace companies, apply Hypernomic principles.Data Collection and Analysis: Challenges and strategies for collecting market data, especially in less transparent industries, and the importance of constant monitoring and modeling.Impact of Hypernomic Adoption: Potential economic implications of widespread Hypernomic strategies and their role in stabilizing reactions to major market events.Multidimensional Business Insight: Utilizing Hypernomic methods to identify unique market opportunities and navigate complex business environments effectively.And much, much more...
59m
13/02/2024

How to redefine B2B loans and financing to boost customer satisfaction

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Predictable B2B Success, where we delve into the intricacies of B2B strategies and the secrets behind sustainable company growth. I'm your host, Vinay Koshy. In this episode, we explore the dynamic world of financial technology, focusing on lending. Our distinguished guest, Michael Barnett, is the pioneering founder of Loanspark, a cutting-edge Fintech marketplace revolutionizing how companies access capital. With over two decades of leadership in consumer and commercial lending, Michael brings an invaluable depth of knowledge to our discussion. In this episode, Michael unravels the complexities of loan acquisition, debunks common misconceptions about commercial lending, and reveals how Loanspark facilitates transparent and efficient loan processes for businesses across the US. We'll venture beyond surface-level understanding to uncover the impact of customer experience in lending and how Loanspark's partnership model offers a competitive edge in redefining industry standards. Are bad reviews influencing your company's borrowing power? Is there a smarter way to navigate the loan marketplace without getting lost in the fine print? Get ready to engage with a narrative that could reshape your business financing approach. Don't miss out on the insights that could transform your understanding of lending—tune in to our in-depth conversation with Michael Barnett on Predictable B2B Success. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  The challenges and implications of bad reviews for companies and the general neglect of reading terms and conditions.Loanspark's marketplace model and its mission to partner with organizations to offer tailored loan options.Loanspark's pivot from various loan products to achieving balanced offerings across different segments.The rapid and straightforward deployment of Loanspark's technology platform for new partnerships.The multiple benefits Loanspark provides to its clients, including customer retention, revenue generation, and democratizing loan access.Loanspark's role in making capital access more transparent and straightforward for businesses in the US.The competitive edge Loanspark offers financial institutions by providing unique loan solutions.Michael Barnett's background in the financial services industry and the vision behind founding Loanspark.The importance of customer experiences in lending and how Loanspark ensures transparency and efficiency in loan applications.The misunderstandings around commercial loan interest rates and the importance of proper education for potential borrowers.And much, much more...
49m
06/02/2024

How to use process science to drive business growth and digitization

In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, we dive into process science with Sam Drauschak, co-founder and chief process scientist at Truvle. With over a decade of experience in management consulting and expertise in integrating knowledge from different domains, Sam shares insights on how businesses can leverage process science to achieve sustainable success. We explore the significance of process management roles, the impact of COVID and digitalization on work practices, and the role of process science in creating value for customers. Discover how Sam's Truvle mapping language revolutionizes process mapping and addresses the lack of a standard human-centric process language. As we unravel the misconceptions about processes and automation, Sam sheds light on the transformative potential of process science in a digital world. Join us as Sam Drauschak delves into the essential role of process science in helping businesses create value, navigate the shift to process science, and establish a standard process language for data-driven analysis. Tune in to better understand process science and its relevance in achieving predictable B2B success. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  The role and impact of process science in businessThe development and utilization of the Truvle mapping languageIntegration of process science for successful organizational changeThe impact of process science on creating a customer-centric operating modelThe importance of process skillsets at the executive levelThe future of process management in the wake of COVID and digitalizationAreas of process science that are often overlookedThe broad and encompassing nature of processes in businessMisconceptions about process science and its role in businessesAutomation and digitization's influence on process workAnd much, much more ...
39m
30/01/2024

How to build a culture of service innovation to drive growth

How can organizations foster creativity and develop truly customer-centric solutions in a world where B2B success increasingly relies on innovation?  Please tune in to our latest episode, in which service innovation expert Shaun McAndrew shares her transformative insights on navigating the dynamic landscape of business innovation. Discover why Shaun advocates for prototypes over MVPs to avoid over-featured products and the importance of guided ideation and team collaboration in driving innovation. Uncover how Shaun's experiential workshops empower companies to identify opportunities and challenges while understanding the voice of the customer to shape innovative offerings. Learn why a customer-centric approach and storytelling are pivotal in B2B contexts and how the living lab model revolutionizes the traditional product development process.  Join us as we explore the nuanced strategies, cultural shifts, and iterative testing required for businesses to thrive in an era where simplicity and customer empathy are essential to predictable B2B success. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  Importance of using prototypes instead of MVPs for product testingDistinguishing between MVPs for product offerings and prototypes for services or solutionsDirected/guided ideation and the sharing of ideas within a team for innovationSponsor and leadership commitment to service opportunitiesOrganizational culture and leadership support for fostering innovationShifting mindsets towards focusing on "jobs to be done" perspectivesCustomer-centric approach to product and service innovationWorkshop-based approach to bring about organizational change and support service innovationSignificance of storytelling and value proposition in B2B business developmentChallenges and solutions in developing and testing minimum viable services or productsAnd much, much more...
46m
26/01/2024

Startup fundraising and leverage: How to drive growth and scale fast

In this episode of "Predictable B2B Success," we delve into the world of scaling startups and early-stage investments in the enterprise AI space with Anupam Rastogi, a seasoned general partner at Emergent Ventures. Anupam brings over a decade of invaluable experience in venture capital, with a keen focus on seed and early-stage investments in AI-powered SaaS and infrastructure. Join host Vinay Koshy as he explores the unique challenges and key strategies for the growth of startups with Anupam. From the critical importance of achieving early product-market fit to the intricacies of scaling and continuously growing sales and marketing efforts, this conversation offers a goldmine of insights for founders and entrepreneurs navigating the ever-evolving startup landscape. Anupam doesn't just discuss the challenges; he also provides actionable advice, such as the significance of the founder or one of the founders making the first 5-7 enterprise sales and the need to engage in deliberate sales, marketing, and product cadence during a company's growth stages. Tune in to gain exclusive access to Anupam's expertise and unrivaled advice on venture round fundraising, fostering a thriving company culture, and choosing the proper lead generation channels at different stages of a company's growth. If you want to scale your startup or are deeply invested in venture capital, this episode promises to be a game-changer. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Importance of early-stage hires in startupsProduct-market fit and customer feedback in scaling companiesDistinction between fundraising and sales Successful startup example: Present, an AI-powered presentation creatorEnterprise sales and the role of founders in initial salesInvolvement of founders in understanding customer feedbackDeliberate efforts in sales, marketing, and product cadence during growth stagesImportance of surrounding founders with the right advisers and investorsChallenges of scaling startups and achieving early product-market fitDynamics of venture round fundraising and critical considerations for startupsAnd much, much more ...
50m
16/01/2024

B2B multi channel marketing and sales: How to drive growth with a blueprint

In this episode of "Predictable B2B Success," Vinay Koshy delves into an insightful conversation with Elevate.io's experienced CEO and founder of Elevate.io, Gary Garth. Get ready to explore the dynamic world of account-based selling and marketing, where Gary emphasizes the need for a personalized, multi-channel approach. Discover how Gary's company utilizes strategic gifting, personalized emails, events, and a monthly newsletter to engage prospects and build lasting relationships. Gary Garth's wisdom extends to nurturing relationships and building goodwill rather than focusing solely on conversion rates. Uncover the importance of removing distractions and gaining a fundamental understanding of customers before implementing tools or platforms. Gary's deep expertise in sales and marketing shines through as he highlights the need for proper attribution, reporting, and measuring of sales and marketing activities. The conversation also delves into strategies for enhancing collaboration between sales and marketing teams, hiring the right talent, customer retention, and the significance of a structured referral approach. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the industry, this episode promises to ignite your curiosity and provide invaluable insights into building a successful B2B sales strategy. So, tune in and let Gary Garth guide you toward predictable B2B success! Some areas we explore in this episode include: The personalized, multi-channel approach in account-based selling and marketingUse of strategic gifting, personalized emails, events, and a monthly newsletter for engaging prospectsThe need for a more personalized and effective process with IP tracking and relationship-buildingMeasuring various sales metrics to optimize performance, including email outreach campaigns, reply rates, meeting bookings, and call volumesProper attribution, reporting, and measuring of sales and marketing activities requiring a CRM that integrates with relevant tools and sourcesMisalignment between sales and marketing teams and the need for collaboration and integration between the twoHiring individuals with the right attitude and attributes and providing support and a clear career path for new hiresThe importance of structured approaches for referrals, with recommendations for requesting referrals and capturing customer stories effectivelyThe significance of retaining customers and increasing customer satisfaction levels for business growthThe importance of systems, tracking attribution, hiring, and training for sales successAnd much, much more...
53m
09/01/2024

How to balance ai automation and the human element to drive growth

In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, we dive into the ever-evolving landscape of AI and its impact on businesses with the insightful Garik Tate, CEO of Valhalla. Join host Vinay Koshy as he unpacks the arms race between intelligent systems and AI development, exploring its significance for entrepreneurs and organizations.  Discover how AI automation can revolutionize recruitment, providing breakthrough profit and preparing for high-valued acquisitions. Step into the world of agile methodology in marketing and learn how to harness AI's potential to enhance creativity and messaging. Gain unique perspectives on identifying constraints within a business and leveraging AI for personalization in marketing. Delve into topics ranging from societal defense mechanisms against mass outreach strategies to the critical role of joint assets and consistent understanding within organizations.  As we journey through the intersection of AI and business success, prepare to be inspired by Garik Tate's invaluable insights and practical strategies for leveraging AI to achieve predictable B2B success. Some areas we explore in this episode include:  The concept of an arms race between intelligent systems and its application in AI developmentChallenges and implications of AI detection in text and video-based contentValue creation and the ongoing dynamics in AI detection and creationThe use of AI in agile methodology in marketingLeveraging AI to increase business throughput and qualityGarik Tate's company, Valhalla Team, and its use of AI automation in recruitmentApproaching AI and data problems from an inputs and outputs perspectiveChallenges businesses may face with automating customization and societal defense mechanismsThe impact of percentages on driving business performanceIncorporating agile, domain-driven design, and AI into software development and marketing processesAnd much, much more ...
49m
02/01/2024

Tracking content marketing: How to use long-term content strategies to drive growth

Creating powerful and unique content can be the key to B2B success in a world where content is king. Join host Vinay Koshy as he invites Jeff Dolan, an expert in digital marketing and content creation, to delve into the secrets of captivating content and its impact on business success. Jeff reveals the crucial value of authenticity, passion, and vulnerability in creating sustainable and engaging content amidst the sea of digital noise. Discover the unconventional strategies for attracting quality leads and resonating with the right audience in the B2B landscape. Get exclusive insights into Jeff's journey from corporate sales to mastering digital marketing, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in content creation for business success. From embracing uniqueness to navigating the growing influence of AI, this episode promises a thought-provoking exploration of the future of content in the B2B sphere. Prepare to unravel the mysteries of dark social, the potential rise of digital clones, and the art of balancing authenticity and positivity in content creation. Join us as we uncover the untold story of producing compelling content and mastering the digital landscape for predictable B2B success. Some of the areas we explore in this episode include: Importance of creating valuable content for attracting customers in B2B businessesStrategies for B2B companies lacking content creation skills or ad budgetEmbracing one's uniqueness and finding a unique voice as a podcasterChallenges and opportunities in content marketing for B2B businessesJeff Dolan's transition from corporate sales to digital marketingInfluencing customer decisions and the need for creative content in digital marketingThe use and influence of AI in content creation and digital marketingThe concept of indirect attribution or "dark social" in decision-making around data and contentThe importance of tracking content marketing and making it an essential part of running a company in the digital ageThe potential use of AI and digital clones in content and brand presence for executivesAnd much, much more...
54m
26/12/2023

10 insider secrets to build an in-house agency for creative collaboration and growth

In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, we delve into the innovative world of advertising and creativity with Kasper Sierslev, CEO of Zite Agency. Join us as Kasper shares his expertise in targeting specific audiences, particularly business travelers, and the intriguing strategies to attract their attention. Discover the merging of media buying and creative content into a seamless powerhouse and the revolutionary ways companies can build and optimize their in-house agencies without breaking the bank. Explore the surprising insights from observing consumer behavior beyond mere data and surveys. Uncover the challenges and successes of in-house agencies and the intriguing ways they are transforming the marketing landscape. Plus, understanding the importance of creativity in marketing and the fascinating blend of data-driven decisions with innovative, out-of-the-box thinking. In this captivating episode, Kasper Sierslev leaves us with compelling wisdom on building a creative culture within corporate environments, transforming negative perceptions into positive advertising, and leveraging data to craft exceptional marketing strategies. Prepare for dynamic discussions that challenge conventional marketing norms and inspire creative excellence. Some areas we explore in this episode include: Advertising products within different price areas and targeting specific audiencesIntegrating media buying and creative content within the marketing setupApproach to building an in-house agency and the importance of testing and learningReviewing workflows and processes for smooth operationChallenges and trends faced by in-house agenciesRestructuring organizations to operate more like an agency or media publishing companyBuilding a creative culture within a corporate environmentTalent acquisition, creativity, and culture in relation to in-housing marketing activitiesObservational and human-based approaches to developing creative ideasBalancing creativity and data-driven decisions in marketingAnd much, much more...
1h 2m