Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast

Have you been told that great leaders need to constantly fix their weaknesses?In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, Julian Castelli sits down with Michael Guymon, CEO of SQA Services and former leader at SpaceX and Rocket Lab, to challenge that idea.Michael shares why trying to turn every weakness into a strength is not just inefficient, it is a leadership trap. As companies scale, the role of a CEO shifts dramatically. You cannot do everything yourself, and trying to will slow your growth and burn you out.Instead, Michael explains why the best leaders build around their gaps by hiring people with complementary strengths. From navigating imposter syndrome to creating a culture that encourages real debate over artificial harmony, this conversation dives into what it actually takes to lead at the next level.🔑 Key Takeaways:Why fixing weaknesses is an uphill battleHiring for strengths and building balanced teamsThe difference between right person and right seatWhy conflict driven cultures outperform passive teamsHow first time CEOs evolve their leadership style👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for daily leadership inspiration and updates

Are you a $500/hour executive stuck doing $5/hour work? Most founders who scale past the $5M mark eventually hit a growth ceiling, not because of product or market, but because they’re still buried in the day-to-day noise of the business.In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, Julian Castelli sits down with GetLevrg CEO Jamie Shanks to unpack what he calls the “founder’s trap”.Jamie is a serial entrepreneur who has trained over 250,000 sellers and built three seven-figure agencies. In this podcast, he shares the framework he uses to help leaders shift from low-value execution to high-impact decision-making by trading $5 tasks for $500 outcomes.We explore his “Three Ps” framework: Principle, Process, and Platform, and how offshore talent and AI can be combined to remove operational friction and accelerate growth.Jamie also breaks down his “DSO Zero” strategy, which allowed him to scale a 115-person global team starting with nothing more than a credit card and a disciplined approach to cash flow.If you’re navigating the messy middle of scaling, or trying to step out of execution and into real leadership, this episode offers a clear, practical blueprint.👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for daily leadership inspiration and updates.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, Julian Castelli sits down with Jay McEntire, founder and CEO of ARVA Intelligence, to unpack a hard truth: modern farming is under serious pressure, and many farmers are struggling to survive.For decades, agriculture has been optimized for one thing: producing cheap calories at scale. But that model is breaking down under rising input costs, volatile markets, and unsustainable practices.Jay shares how AI is transforming key decisions in farming, from fertilizer use to soil management. By leveraging data at the field level, farmers can optimize inputs more precisely, reducing costs while improving yields and resilience.The conversation also explores how regenerative practices are turning farms into carbon assets, creating new revenue streams through environmental impact and carbon markets.If you are interested in how AI is reshaping agriculture and unlocking new economic opportunities, this episode offers a clear perspective on the future of farming, sustainability, and long-term profitability.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com 📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for daily leadership inspiration and updates 🎧

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli sits down with Aaron Ross, bestselling author of Predictable Revenue, to discuss how sales and go-to-market strategies are evolving in the age of AI.Aaron reflects on the original ideas behind his book predictable revenue and explores whether those principles still apply in today’s rapidly changing business environment. While AI and automation are transforming sales tactics, Aaron explains why the core principles behind building a pipeline and driving growth remain relevant.The conversation also explores a broader shift toward nonlinear growth. As technology accelerates change, companies and individuals are moving beyond rigid, spreadsheet-driven models toward more adaptive strategies built on relationships, trust, publishing, and referrals.If you’re a founder, sales leader, or operator navigating the future of go-to-market, this episode offers practical insights on building sustainable growth in the AI era.👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for leadership insights and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli sits down with Laura Frances Merin, a talent leader who helped scale a company from 43 employees to more than 200 during a period of hypergrowth.Laura shares lessons from over a decade of building recruiting systems at fast-growing startups and explains why great hiring isn’t about chasing resumes from big-name companies. Instead, it’s about recognizing entrepreneurial traits, building structured hiring processes, and trusting conviction when you see exceptional potential.She also discusses how authenticity and transparency with candidates can improve recruiting outcomes, including how her approach helped her achieve an extraordinary close rate when hiring top talent.If you’re a founder or leader responsible for building a team, this episode offers practical insights on identifying exceptional talent and building a hiring strategy that scales.👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli explores how AI is reshaping SaaS pricing and monetization. Drawing on insights from Bessemer Venture Partners’ AI Pricing and Monetization Playbook, Julian examines why traditional seat-based subscription models are increasingly under pressure.For years, SaaS thrived on predictable per-seat pricing with high margins and minimal variable costs. AI changes that equation. With compute costs tied to tokens, inference, and GPU usage, margins can compress if pricing isn’t aligned with value creation.Julian breaks down the shift from selling access to aligning pricing more closely with outcomes. He explores copilots, AI agents, and AI-enabled services, and discusses the implications of the coming 2026 renewal cycle for founders and buyers alike.If you’re building or investing in AI-powered software, this episode offers a practical lens on pricing strategy, margins, and long-term sustainability.👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli talks with Sean Behr, CEO of Fountain AI. Sean shares his journey from Fountain’s first angel investor to CEO, leading the company through a 10x revenue increase in just five years.Fountain AI automates hiring and management for high-volume frontline teams. Sean highlights the distinction between traditional desk-based employees and the frontline workforce, which represents 70% to 80% of people globally. He points out that most frontline workers lack resumes or LinkedIn profiles, making mobile-first communication essential for a population often overlooked by standard technology.The conversation explores Sean’s Zero-Based Leadership framework, which challenges leaders to evaluate every meeting and tactic from scratch to ensure they drive the business forward. Sean also discusses growing a suite of 12 successful products and the importance of intentional communication during rapid scaling.Together, they break down what makes a leadership transition work, from maintaining historical context to evolving personal styles as a business expands. Sean explains how mobile-first automation and rigorous internal product hurdles helped Fountain strengthen its execution while serving millions of workers worldwide. If you are interested in how zero-based thinking can turn operational complexity into scalable growth, this episode offers a practical look at evolving as a tech leader.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli sits down with Sarah Lehman, CEO of Zartico, and Gord Boyce, professional EOS Implementer. Together, they explore how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) helps fast-growing companies bring structure, clarity, and discipline to rapid growth.Sarah shares Zartico’s journey from explosive early growth to what she calls a company refounding. After scaling quickly during COVID and launching a powerful new visitor intelligence platform, Zartico reached a point where growth was amplifying chaos. Sarah explains why she revisited EOS, how working with an experienced implementer changed the outcome, and what it looks like to build scalable systems without slowing momentumGord brings the operator’s perspective, drawing on decades of experience as a tech CEO who scaled companies through high-growth phases. He explains why EOS works for entrepreneurial teams, why leadership cadence and accountability matter, and how an external facilitator accelerates results by keeping teams focused on executionTogether, they discuss leadership alignment, accountability charts, Level 10 meetings, KPIs, and why CEOs benefit from participating in the process rather than trying to run it alone. If you are leading a growing company and looking for a proven framework to support your next phase of growth, this episode offers practical insight from leaders who have lived it.👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Rick Lindquist sits down with Yeshwanth Pulijala, co-founder and CEO of Scalpel AI, and Julian Castelli, operating partner at Mercia Ventures. Scalpel AI is transforming the surgical supply chain using computer vision to ensure every operating room has the right instruments at the right time.Yeshwanth shares how Scalpel is tackling inefficiencies that have existed for decades in surgical logistics, saving hospitals time and money while improving patient outcomes. Julian discusses how he supports founders like Yeshwanth as an operating partner, helping them navigate U.S. expansion, build stronger teams, and scale operations with structure and speed.Together, they break down what makes the partnership between investors and founders work, from trust and transparency to clear priorities and shared accountability. Yeshwanth explains how working with Julian helped Scalpel strengthen hiring, finance, and go-to-market execution as the company accelerates growth in the U.S.If you are interested in how AI, partnership, and operational expertise can turn complex challenges into scalable solutions, this episode offers a practical look at the power of collaboration between founders and operating partners.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli talks with Andy Barraclough, founder and CEO of Voxpopme, and Betsy Shaak, the company’s VP of Product. Voxpopme is an AI-powered qualitative insights platform that helps brands understand customers through video, turning everyday conversations into powerful data.Andy and Betsy share how they are transforming traditional market research, once dominated by slow, expensive focus groups, into fast, scalable, and human-centered insights powered by AI. They explain how the platform lets companies capture real customer voices, run research in minutes instead of months, and surface insights that drive better product decisions.The conversation also dives into the art of building great products. Andy and Betsy reveal how their product team works closely with engineering and customers, balancing founder intuition with data-driven discovery. They discuss trust, rapid prototyping, prioritization, and how AI is changing what is possible for both product teams and researchers.If you are interested in how technology, empathy, and speed are reshaping customer understanding, this episode is packed with lessons from two leaders building the future of product insight.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli talks with Justin Nassiri, founder and CEO of Executive Presence and a former Navy officer, McKinsey consultant, and serial entrepreneur. Justin shares how he helps CEOs and executives build credibility and influence on LinkedIn.He explains why LinkedIn has become the most powerful platform for business leaders. He shares how executives can overcome the fear of posting, shift from self-promotion to education, and use storytelling to engage their audience. Julian and Justin discuss the data behind what actually works on LinkedIn, how to turn interviews into high-performing content, and why consistency matters more than perfection.They also explore Justin’s journey from submarine officer to Silicon Valley founder to leadership advisor, the lessons he learned about timing, product market fit, and the mindset that separates successful entrepreneurs from struggling ones.If you’ve ever wondered how top executives use LinkedIn to grow their brand, attract opportunities, and inspire their teams, this episode breaks it all down. Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli sits down with Park City High School head football coach Josh Montzingo to unpack the leadership journey behind one of Utah’s most inspiring sports turnarounds.Coach Montzingo reflects on his experience transforming a struggling high school football team through character development, cultural alignment, and meaningful relationships.He also explains how mentorship, fundraising, delegation, and personal growth shaped his philosophy and how he guided a high-school football team and its leadership council to redefine their values in pursuing lasting success .The episode covers parallels between coaching and corporate leadership, how to scale with limited resources, and the mindset needed to do hard things as a team or community.This podcast gives valuable lessons and insights to those who are leading a startup or sports team. Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli talks about annual planning with Gord Boyce, a veteran tech CEO and EOS implementer, and Keziah Wonstolen, founder and CEO of Vannin Chief of Staff, an award-winning entrepreneur and former Accenture Chief of Staff.They share why most companies start planning too late and how shifting the process earlier can set your team up for success. Gord explains how EOS tools like vision building, rocks, and Level 10 meetings turn strategy into action. Keziah highlights the role of a chief of staff in keeping the process on track, aligning teams, and ensuring consistent communication.You’ll hear practical tips on retrospectives, top-down and bottom-up planning, quarterly reviews, and how to keep your plan simple and achievable. They also reveal the pitfalls of big-enterprise planning and how to adapt in today’s remote, fast-paced work environment.So, If annual planning feels overwhelming or messy, this episode will give you a clear playbook to simplify the process, align your team, and make strategy execution part of your culture.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli reveals how to turn your weekly executive meetings into something that actually drives results.He highlights a harsh reality: executive meetings are among the most costly hours a company spends, yet they are so often neglected.Julian shares a simple framework to change that:Start with vision and values, so it sets the tone and reminds everyone why they’re there. Keep updates short and to the point, no rambling. Got a big issue that’s going to eat up time? Toss it into the “parking lot” and come back to it later, without derailing the whole meeting.He also digs into the prep work that makes all the difference, like how shared docs keep everyone aligned and why assigning clear roles keeps things moving.So, if your meetings drag on, feel messy, or end without clear action steps, this episode will give you the reset you’ve been waiting for.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli talks with Dave Garrison, co-founder and Chief Navigation Officer of Garrison Growth and author of The Buy-In Advantage. Dave shares how great leaders inspire real commitment from their teams instead of just compliance. He explains why so many employees are disengaged and how leaders can create a culture where people care deeply about their work. Dave and Julian discuss simple, practical tools from his book, including the “collective genius” process that helps teams make smarter decisions together, and the “three is greater than seven” rule that keeps priorities clear and achievable. Dave also shares how a surprising conversation with a shaman changed his view of leadership, purpose, and success. They explore how defining purpose and values can improve hiring, lower turnover, and boost profits by building genuine buy-in across the company. The conversation is full of lessons for CEOs, executives, and anyone who wants to lead with purpose and unlock their team’s potential. If you want to elevate engagement, improve alignment, and help your people thrive, this episode will show you how.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? 👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli is joined by Larry Mathis, former CEO of Houston Methodist and author of Mathis Maxims: Lessons in Leadership. Larry reflects on his journey leading one of the world’s top medical centers through a cultural transformation rooted in service, accountability, and integrity.He shares candid stories that shaped his leadership philosophy including how he built a high-performance executive team, led billion-dollar growth, and even paddled a canoe through a Houston flood to lead by example. He also discusses the importance of empowering employees, thinking long-term, and why “the troops eat first” applies just as much in healthcare as it does in the military.This conversation offers enduring principles for leadership with purpose and the humility to keep learning at every stage.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

Scaling with Clarity: How a Chief of Staff Brings Structure to Visionary LeadershipIn this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, Julian Castelli explores the expanding impact of the Chief of Staff role with Keziah Wonstolen, founder of Vannin Chief of Staff, and James Adcock, CEO of MT Studio Services. They discuss how a Chief of Staff helps leaders align vision, drive execution across departments, and create space for strategic focus.Key Takeaways:Strategic Alignment at Scale: A Chief of Staff helps unify leadership vision and execution across departments, reducing miscommunication and accelerating progress.Not Just Admin Support: Keziah explains that a true Chief of Staff is not a glorified assistant but a trusted strategic partner who helps turn vision into execution and keeps the organization moving forward.Structure During Growth: James shares how adding a Chief of Staff allowed his team to implement scalable systems during a period of rapid expansion.Focus Without Burnout: By absorbing operational friction, a Chief of Staff allows founders and CEOs to think more strategically and lead more intentionally.Tailored to the Leader: The CoS role adapts based on the executive’s needs, making it one of the most flexible and high-impact roles in modern leadership.Clarity Amid Complexity: From meeting flow to decision-making support, the Chief of Staff brings order to chaos, enabling faster and more confident moves.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli sits down with seasoned investor and Neotera founder Carl Coward to unpack one of the most urgent challenges facing U.S. industry today: securing a stable, domestic supply of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, rare earths,copper, tin,graphite etc.Carl shares his global journey through mining and investment banking, his deep concern over U.S. reliance on adversarial nations like China, and the bold private-public efforts underway to rebuild a Western supply chain. They discuss the undeniable link between national security and rare earth processing and what needs to change at the policy level, and the once-in-a-generation ROI potential for investors and engineers alike.If you've wondered what it really takes to mine, process, and protect the future of American innovation, this is the conversation to hear.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

How can AI-powered video analytics transform retail and restaurant operations without drowning in complexity? In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, Julian Castelli sits down with Brock Weeks, CEO and co-founder of Savi, to uncover how his team is turning security cameras into real-time operational tools for cutting costs, reducing theft, and dramatically improving customer experiences.Key Takeaways:From Security to Profitability - How Savi repurposes existing cameras to track labor efficiency, theft, and wait times (saving brands $15K/site!).Scaling Sales the Right Way - Why Brock delayed hiring until his CAC metrics proved scalability (and the costly mistake most startups make).The Power of ‘No’ – How focusing on restaurants first (not banks or pharmacies) unlocked Savi’s 10,000-site growth.Leadership Lessons - Building a durable company culture with Radical Candor, OKRs, and Andy Grove’s High Output Management.COVID Pivot to Profit - Launching weeks before lockdowns and why narrowing their niche saved the business.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli engages with Joe Grover, a seasoned entrepreneur and current CMO at Ampleo. Joe shares his journey, focusing on his impactful role at Homie, a tech company disrupting the real estate market with a cost-effective, transparent model. He discusses marketing strategies, challenges in scaling, and the importance of profitability over mere growth. Joe also highlights Ampleo's mission to enhance small business success through fractional leadership. The episode underscores the value of mentorship, strategic insights, and the entrepreneurial spirit in building successful ventures.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at ⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli is joined by AI expert Kevin Williams and MyAdvice CEO Shawn Miele to discuss practical strategies for AI adoption in organizations. Sean shares his company’s journey, highlighting the importance of leadership, company-wide involvement, secure platforms, and continuous training. Kevin offers insights on industry trends, the need for AI literacy, and common pitfalls. The conversation covers empowering employees, automating tedious tasks, and fostering a culture of innovation to achieve measurable AI wins in 2025.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at ⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Eli Portnoy, CEO and co-founder of Back Engine. Eli shares his entrepreneurial journey, focusing on his experiences with Sense360, a data analytics company for the restaurant industry. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from founder-led sales to a scalable model, the impact of COVID-19 on his business, and the importance of adaptability and collaboration. Eli also highlights the evolving role of AI in business, emphasizing the need for curiosity and innovation. The episode offers valuable insights into scaling startups and leveraging AI for efficiency.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at ⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠📲 Follow us on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli converses with Nate Randle, CEO of Gabb, a company focused on creating a safe tech environment for children. Nate shares his career journey from sports to tech, highlighting roles at Nike, Callaway Golf, and the Utah Jazz, before transitioning to tech firms like Vivint and Qualtrics. He discusses Gabb's mission to protect children from social media dangers while fostering family connections. The episode also explores leadership lessons, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the challenges of entering the competitive telecom market.Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Explore expert insights, practical strategies, and powerful tools to elevate your impact in business.👉 Visit us at GrowthElevated.com📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for daily leadership inspiration and updates.Let’s grow together!

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli converses with Ken Gavranovic, a seasoned entrepreneur and former CEO of Web.com. Ken shares his journey in scaling Web.com to significant growth and a successful IPO during the early internet era. Key insights include the importance of automation, marketing strategies, and data-driven decision-making. Ken emphasizes understanding customer needs, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and integrating AI to enhance business operations. He also discusses the transformative potential of AI, particularly for small businesses, and underscores the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in leadership.For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli converses with Tom Lineen, a seasoned leader in the payments industry and founder of West Town Payments. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic in July 2020, Tom's company focuses on underserved markets like hemp and CBD. Tom shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges of finding a banking partner and the strategic decisions that led to his company's success. He emphasizes the importance of trust, transparency, and leveraging technology. The episode offers valuable insights into navigating business growth during challenging times.For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli converses with Rob Kaminski, co-founder of Fletch Product Market Management. They explore the challenges technology startups face in product marketing and positioning. Key themes include the importance of clear messaging, the pitfalls of broad target definitions, and the necessity of a focused approach. Rob shares his journey and insights from consulting with over 300 startups, emphasizing the need for specificity in defining value propositions. The episode provides valuable strategies for startups to refine their messaging, target their audience effectively, and navigate market complexities.For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Kathy Slowinski, a turnaround CEO known for revitalizing distressed software companies at Trilogy Software. Kathy shares her journey in the tech industry and discusses her operational strategies, including cost-cutting, optimizing cloud infrastructure, and integrating AI to enhance business performance. She emphasizes the importance of transparency, customer engagement, and making tough leadership decisions. Kathy also highlights the benefits of measuring AI usage within teams and fostering a competitive spirit. The episode offers valuable insights for tech leaders and entrepreneurs navigating company transformations.For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli welcomes Dan Lambert, CEO of PathologyWatch. Julian introduces the podcast's focus on leadership and growth in tech companies and highlights the annual tech summit organized by Growth Elevated. Dan shares his entrepreneurial journey, discussing his ventures in grocery couponing and medical education before delving into his current work in healthcare technology. PathologyWatch is working to improve cancer diagnostics through digitization of pathology tools and AI research. The episode emphasizes the importance of resilience, strong teams, and community support in navigating the challenges of the tech industry.For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠.Timestamps:Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02)Julian Castelli welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast's focus on leadership in technology companies.Community of Tech Founders (00:00:29)Julian discusses Growth Elevated, a community for tech founders, and mentions the annual tech summit in Utah.Introducing Dan Lambert (00:01:16)Julian introduces Dan Lambert, highlighting his entrepreneurial background and his current work with Pathology Watch.Dan's Founding Journey (00:02:15)Dan shares his experiences leading up to his current venture, emphasizing the challenges and learning from past startups.First Startup: Grocery Couponing (00:02:33)Dan describes his first company that enabled digital coupons in grocery stores, replacing outdated systems.Second Startup: Medical Education (00:04:05)Dan discusses his second venture, Board Vitals, which focused on providing medical education and compliance resources.Transition to Healthcare Technology (00:05:09)Dan explains how his experiences led to the founding of Pathology Watch, aiming to modernize pathology processes.Background in Medical Sciences (00:05:37)Dan reflects on his initial interest in medicine and how he transitioned to engineering and technology.MBA Experience (00:06:52)Dan shares insights from his MBA program, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives in business.Identifying the Cancer Challenge (00:08:24)Dan discusses the decision to tackle cancer, noting the advancements in radiology compared to pathology.Building a Comprehensive Solution (00:09:02)Dan explains the need for a complete solution in pathology, integrating software with laboratory processes.Understanding Pathology Watch's Customers (00:11:04)Dan clarifies who their customers are and the outdated processes they are replacing in pathology.Old Pathology Process (00:12:03)Dan describes the traditional manual process of analyzing biopsies and how it is inefficient.Pathology Watch's Digital Solution (00:12:51)Dan outlines how Pathology Watch digitizes slides and integrates with dermatologists' systems for better efficiency.Benefits of Digital Pathology (00:14:38)Dan highlights the advantages of digital pathology, including improved communication and patient care.Impact on Healthcare Costs (00:16:26)Dan discusses how their technology aims to reduce healthcare costs while improving cancer detection and treatment.Company Launch and Growth Timeline (00:17:33)Discussion on the timeline of Dan Lambert's company from inception to acquisition.Finding Co-Founders (00:17:44)Dan shares how he found his co-founders and their complementary skills.Anticipating Regulatory Changes (00:18:28)Importance of building a business with expected regulatory shifts in digital pathology.Client Engagement Strategy (00:19:12)The significance of consulting dermatologists before product development.Acquisition and Growth Metrics (00:21:17)Details on company growth, revenue, and the decision to sell or raise funds.Acquisition by Sonic Healthcare (00:22:14)Insights on the acquisition by Sonic Healthcare and its strategic advantages.Industry Adoption of Digital Pathology (00:23:10)Discussion on the rapid adoption of digital pathology as a standard of care.Regulatory Challenges in Health Tech (00:24:50)Challenges faced with compliance to various health regulations during startup.Staying Informed on Regulations (00:26:36)Methods for startups to keep up with complex health regulations.Leadership Lessons from Experience (00:28:19)Dan shares key leadership lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey.Importance of Hiring the Right People (00:29:31)Focus on recruiting top talent and maintaining cash flow as a CEO.Navigating Challenges as a CEO (00:30:05)Insights on recognizing when to delegate and not micromanage.Learning from Feedback (00:31:12)The value of early client feedback and how it shapes product development.Personal Impact of the Technology (00:32:13)Dan shares a personal story of how the technology saved his life.Recommendations for Entrepreneurs (00:33:43)Dan discusses his involvement in venture capital and suggests resources for entrepreneurs.Favorite Startup Book (00:34:01)Dan shares his favorite startup book, discussing its insights on the challenges of entrepreneurship.Struggles of Startups (00:34:16)The conversation highlights the harsh reality that many startups fail and the importance of perseverance.Encapsulating the Struggle (00:34:42)Dan and Julian reflect on how the book helps others understand and navigate their struggles.Gratitude and Experience (00:34:51)Dan expresses his appreciation for the podcast experience and the insights shared.Lessons for Listeners (00:34:55)Julian acknowledges the valuable lessons Dan has provided for the audience.Closing Remarks (00:35:02)Dan thanks the hosts, wishing them well as the episode concludes.Podcast Outro (00:35:08)Julian invites listeners to subscribe and explore more resources for leadership development.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli converses with Jonathon Fishman, a seasoned entrepreneur and leader in financial legal tech. Jonathon, a three-time founder, currently leads LeanLaw, a SaaS company that streamlines financial operations for law firms. The discussion explores Jonathon's journey, the evolution of LeanLaw, and the transformative impact of adopting the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). Key topics include the importance of having the right leadership roles, the benefits of EOS in strategic alignment and accountability, and the challenges faced in refining their go-to-market strategy and talent management. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on LinkedIn. Timestamps: (00:00:08) Julian Castelli welcomes listeners to the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, emphasizing leadership challenges in tech. Introduction of Jonathon Fishman (00:01:19) Julian introduces Jonathon Fishman, a three-time founder in financial legal tech, focusing on Lean Law. Overview of LeanLaw (00:02:12) Jonathon describes Lean Law as a SaaS company for law firms managing the financial lifecycle of clients. Origin of LeanLaw (00:03:27) Jonathon shares the founding story, highlighting Gary Allen's vision and the generational shift in law firms. Transition to Full-Time Commitment (00:04:48) Jonathon discusses the pivotal moment in 2020 when he decided to fully commit to LeanLaw. Leadership Structure and Challenges (00:06:38) Jonathon reflects on the challenges of leadership roles and the need for the right team dynamics. Capital and Leadership Evolution (00:07:33) He explains the need for outside capital and the importance of establishing a strong leadership structure. Adopting EOS Management Methodology (00:08:23) Jonathon introduces the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) as a transformative framework for their company. Defining Roles Within EOS (00:10:06) He elaborates on the roles of visionary and integrator within EOS, emphasizing the need for clarity. Importance of EOS Framework (00:12:03) Jonathon highlights how EOS provided a structured management framework, aiding in company operations. Hiring an EOS Implementer (00:14:19) He discusses the benefits of hiring an EOS implementer for effective strategic planning and execution. Impact of EOS on Company Growth (00:15:20) Jonathon asserts that adopting EOS was a major turning point that significantly improved their operations. Key Changes Post-EOS Implementation (00:15:51) He outlines how EOS aligned strategic goals and created clarity through metrics and accountability. Framework for Evaluating Talent (00:18:12) Jonathon explains EOS's framework for assessing team members, emphasizing the importance of capacity. Understanding Capacity in Leadership (00:19:16) Discussion on the three levers of capacity, desire, and ability in leadership roles. Joining the Growth Accelerator (00:20:19) Jonathon shares his experience in the Growth Acts accelerator program and its impact on Lean Law. The Love Letter to Ideal Client Profile (00:21:18) Explaining the concept of a "love letter" to effectively communicate with the ideal client. Importance of Ideal Client Profile (00:22:40) Jonathon emphasizes the necessity of knowing and narrowing down the ideal client profile. Stage Appropriate Talent (00:24:46) Insight on hiring talent with experience suitable for the company's growth stage. Learning from Hiring Mistakes (00:25:32) Jonathon reflects on a hiring mistake due to a lack of stage-appropriate experience. Product Market Fit and Customer Journey (00:26:56) Discussion on achieving product market fit and the importance of a cohesive customer journey. Rev Ops Integration (00:32:35) The significance of hiring a revenue operations leader for understanding the customer journey. Hiring the Right Rev Ops Leader (00:35:12) Jonathon discusses the impact of hiring a stage-appropriate rev ops leader on company growth. Recommended Resources (00:35:38) Jonathon shares influential books and podcasts that have shaped his leadership approach.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli delves into the important topic of team optimization, focusing on the "pushers versus pullers" leadership concept. He encourages Team Leaders to take the time to categorizes team members as "pullers," who drive progress and inspire others, and "pushers," who are not really carrying their weight and require excessive supervision,  motivation and support. Julian emphasizes the importance of having a strong executive team of pullers to ensure success in 2025. He provides insights on identifying pushers, their impact on team morale, and the necessity of making changes to enhance team effectiveness. The episode offers practical advice for leaders to evaluate and improve their teams for the new year. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps: Introduction to Team Building (00:00:02) Overview of the podcast's focus on leadership challenges in growing technology companies. Push vs. Pull Framework (00:00:28) Discussion on evaluating team members as "pullers" or "pushers" for effective team dynamics. Identifying Pullers (00:01:10) Characteristics of pullers who drive progress and inspire their peers within the team. Recognizing Pushers (00:02:09) Identifying team members who require motivation and support, referred to as pushers. Concept Inspiration (00:03:01) Julian shares the inspiration behind the push vs. pull concept from another podcast. Santa Claus Analogy (00:03:58) Using Santa and his reindeer to illustrate the difference between pullers and pushers. CEO's Role in Team Dynamics (00:05:53) Importance of attracting and retaining a strong executive team for future success. Evaluating Team for 2025 (00:06:48) Encouraging leaders to assess if their team is suited for the challenges of 2025. Challenges of Team Composition (00:07:46) Discussing the common issue of needing the right team as companies evolve. Framework for Team Evaluation (00:10:26) Advice on categorizing team members into pullers, pushers, and maybes for assessment. Signs of Pushers (00:11:24) Five indicators that may suggest a team member is a pusher rather than a puller. Performance Indicators (00:12:21) Evaluating team performance as a primary sign of potential pushers. Team Turnover Issues (00:13:12) High turnover in a department may indicate a struggling leader or pusher. Defensive Behavior in Meetings (00:14:13) Signs of pushers being defensive or argumentative during executive meetings. Impact on Team Morale (00:15:03) Frustration among pullers can lead to losing high performers if pushers are not addressed. Final Thoughts on Team Composition (00:15:55) Encouragement to identify and replace pushers with pullers for success in 2025.

In this podcast episode, host Julian Castelli discusses the challenges technology companies face in scaling, particularly in sales and go-to-market strategies. Joined by Dale Zwizinski, Jake Reni, and Adam Jay, co-founders of Revenue Reimagined, the conversation delves into the "go-to-market gap" and the importance of foundational processes in order to generate consistent growth. The guests emphasize the need for continuous review of customer profiles, transparent reporting, and experienced advisors. They share insights on avoiding common pitfalls, such as premature hiring of sales leaders and lack of documentation. The episode underscores the necessity of a structured approach to achieve sustainable growth. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02) Julian Castelli welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast's focus on growing technology companies. Context of the Episode (00:00:26) Julian shares the episode's purpose and introduces the guests, emphasizing the challenges in sales and go-to-market strategies. Introducing Revenue Reimagined (00:01:17) Julian introduces the founders of Revenue Reimagined and discusses their expertise in addressing the go-to-market gap. The Go-To-Market Gap Discussion (00:02:40) The speakers acknowledge the increasing difficulty in sales growth compared to the previous 12-18 months. Rapid Changes in Go-To-Market Strategies (00:03:16) Jake highlights the fast-paced changes in effective sales strategies and the need for constant adaptation. Reviewing Customer Profiles (00:03:36) Dale emphasizes the importance of continually reviewing ideal customer profiles and value propositions. Founders' Challenges (00:03:53) Julian discusses the panic among founders as past strategies fail, leading to the need for expert help. Founders' Backgrounds (00:04:39) Jake begins sharing his experiences and the challenges faced by startups in scaling effectively. Pattern Recognition in Sales (00:06:08) Jake reflects on recognizing recurring challenges in startups and the desire to help at scale. Adam's Journey to Startups (00:06:48) Adam shares his transition from large companies to startups, highlighting the common issues faced. The Importance of Early Intervention (00:08:10) Adam discusses the need to assist startups earlier to avoid common pitfalls in sales leadership. Dale's Experience and Motivation (00:09:41) Dale shares his extensive sales experience and the motivation behind helping multiple founders simultaneously. Collaboration and Connection (00:12:16) Dale recounts how he and Adam connected while competing for the same job, leading to collaboration. The Value of Teamwork (00:13:31) Dale expresses the importance of collaboration in consulting and the challenges of working alone. Introduction to HireVue (00:14:16) The conversation shifts to their shared connection with HireVue, a notable tech company from Utah. Defining Revenue Reimagined (00:16:35) Dale outlines what Revenue Reimagined does and the types of companies they assist in stabilizing growth. Understanding Revenue Reimagined's Client Engagement (00:17:24) Discussion on the typical engagement length and the importance of an initial audit. The Importance of Audits (00:19:16) Insights on how audits help in understanding client needs and setting expectations. Revenue Reimagined's Journey (00:21:38) Overview of the company's first year, growth, and lessons learned from client engagements. The Go-To-Market Gap Introduction (00:25:33) Introduction of the concept of the go-to-market gap affecting many tech companies. Identifying Go-To-Market Issues (00:25:37) Discussion on signs of a go-to-market gap, starting with inconsistent deal closures. Forecasting Challenges (00:26:55) Exploration of issues with relying solely on top-down forecasting models. Impact of Unrealistic Forecasts (00:28:31) Consequences of unrealistic sales targets on team morale and performance. Ghosting by Prospects (00:29:45) What it means for sales teams when prospects stop responding. Customer Churn Issues (00:31:08) Discussion on the implications of losing customers faster than acquiring new ones. Root Cause Clarity (00:32:50) The importance of understanding root causes behind client pain points for effective messaging. Team Structure Concerns (00:34:10) The need for clarity on roles and performance within revenue-related positions. The Hiring Trap (00:34:37) Discussion on the common trap of believing hiring can solve all problems. Operational Hiring Challenges (00:34:55) Importance of hiring the right go-to-market experts versus operational or technical personnel. Understanding the Right Language (00:35:37) Founders may struggle with the specific language needed to hire effectively. Framework for Go-to-Market Strategies (00:36:58) Introduction of a four-step framework for stabilizing and scaling go-to-market strategies. Stabilization Phase Insights (00:38:12) Exploration of key moves needed during the stabilization phase to gain traction. Root Cause Analysis (00:39:53) Emphasis on understanding the root causes behind sales issues for effective solutions. Progression to Repeatability (00:41:13) Indicators of momentum needed to transition from stabilization to repeatability. Joint Engagement Plan (00:43:54) Explanation of the joint engagement plan as a tool for accountability in the sales process. Mapping Sales to Buyer Processes (00:45:14) Importance of aligning sales processes with buyers' purchasing processes for better outcomes. Building Trust in Joint Plans (00:47:27) Strategies for establishing mutual trust in joint engagement plans between sellers and buyers. Common Sales Mistakes (00:50:49) Identifying repeatable mistakes in sales processes that hinder effectiveness and scalability. Hiring Mistakes in Sales (00:51:56) Discussion on the common mistake of hiring a head of sales too early in a company's growth. Founders' Challenges (00:52:19) Exploration of why founders struggle with exiting founder-led sales prematurely. Importance of Process (00:52:49) Emphasis on the necessity of established processes before hiring sales leadership. Hiring the Wrong Fit (00:53:54) Caution against hiring executives from large companies who may not fit startup environments. Advice Against Early Hiring (00:56:06) Recommendation to avoid hiring a VP of sales before the company is ready. Documenting Processes (00:56:34) The importance of documenting sales processes and strategies for clarity and training. Cold Outreach (00:57:05) Encouragement for founders to engage in cold calling and outreach to expand their network. Recommended Reading (00:58:29) Suggestions for essential books to help founders understand sales organization mechanics. Scaling Strategies (00:59:01) Recommendation of a book focused on scaling businesses effectively. Extreme Ownership (00:59:22) Discussion on the importance of accountability for founders and leaders in their processes.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews David Darmstandler, co-CEO and co-founder of Datapath, a managed IT and security company. They discuss the challenges of scaling a technology business, particularly in the managed services sector. David shares insights from Datapath's journey since its inception in 2005, emphasizing the importance of effective leadership, team management, and financial literacy. Key topics include the value of mentorship, the role of advisory boards, and the necessity of tough conversations to foster a culture of openness and continuous learning. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02) Julian Castelli welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast's purpose and focus on tech leadership. Guest Introduction (00:01:17) Julian introduces David Darmstandler, co-CEO of Datapath, highlighting his entrepreneurial background and company's achievements. Overview of Datapath (00:02:21) David explains Datapath's services, focusing on managed IT and security for various sectors including healthcare. Customer Profile and Needs (00:02:41) Discussion on the typical customer profile and how Datapath supplements existing IT teams. Managing Complex IT Infrastructures (00:04:06) David describes the complexities of managing IT for large organizations and the importance of strategic support. Growth with Startups (00:05:20) David shares experiences working with startups and the excitement of supporting their growth. Consequences of IT Failures (00:05:52) David emphasizes the impact of IT failures on customer trust and brand reputation. Innovating with AI (00:06:40) Discussion on the role of AI in enhancing Datapath's services and future innovations. Early Days of Datapath (00:07:47) David recounts the humble beginnings of Datapath, starting with minimal resources in 2005. Scaling the Business (00:08:08) Julian questions how Datapath scaled from a small startup to a significant player in the industry. Challenges at the $5 Million Mark (00:10:38) David discusses the challenges faced when reaching $5 million in revenue and the need for strategic changes. Identifying Leadership Challenges (00:12:23) David reflects on realizing the team's readiness for growth and the need for strategic thinking. Scaling Strategy and Efficiency (00:13:14) David compares scaling to a race car, emphasizing the need for efficiency and shedding unnecessary weight. Recognizing Skill Gaps (00:14:06) Discussion on the common struggle of entrepreneurs lacking diverse skill sets necessary for scaling. The Role of Coaching (00:15:13) David explains how bringing in a coach helped identify micromanagement issues and improve team dynamics. The Importance of Seeking Help (00:16:46) Discussion on the challenges of seeking coaching and the founder's reluctance to ask for help. Catalysts for Change (00:17:26) David shares how hitting a plateau created pressure, leading to the decision to seek coaching. Mentorship and Coaching (00:18:22) The value of having mentors and being a mentor, emphasizing mutual growth and learning. Partner Alignment on Coaching (00:19:12) Exploring how David and his partner reached a consensus on hiring a coach. Accountability in Leadership (00:21:33) The significance of accountability for leaders and the benefits of involving coaches with team members. Advisory Boards for Guidance (00:22:41) The role of advisory boards in providing accountability and guidance for private companies. Building an Engine for Scale (00:23:12) Transitioning from a small to a scalable organization and the need for operational changes. Understanding Financial Metrics (00:24:01) The necessity for entrepreneurs to grasp financial metrics and their impact on business success. Investing in Financial Education (00:24:40) David discusses pursuing education in finance to better understand and manage business finances. Learning from Financial Statements (00:25:07) The importance of analyzing financial statements to improve business positioning and decision-making. Critical Metrics for Success (00:26:32) Identifying and aligning on critical business metrics to drive operational efficiency and growth. Addressing Team Composition (00:28:16) David reflects on the importance of having the right people in the right roles for organizational success. Having Tough Conversations (00:29:01) The need for leaders to engage in difficult conversations about team fit and performance. Relief from Honest Discussions (00:30:51) The positive outcomes of open communication, leading to clarity and alignment within the team. Here are the extracted timestamps and their corresponding titles: Creating a Safe Space for Conversations (00:32:24) Discusses the importance of open-ended conversations to address performance issues without intimidation. Enabling Team Growth (00:33:35) Explores strategies for empowering team members to scale and grow in their roles effectively. Time Management Techniques (00:34:49) Highlights the significance of tracking time to optimize leaders' responsibilities and reduce administrative burdens. Bottom-Up Strategic Planning (00:35:21) Describes the shift from top-down to bottom-up planning, encouraging team input on achieving departmental goals. Fostering Autonomy in Leadership (00:36:40) Emphasizes the importance of giving team members autonomy to make decisions and develop their capabilities. Continuous Learning and Community (00:39:12) Recommends regular reading and finding a supportive community of entrepreneurs for personal and professional growth. Closing Thoughts and Gratitude (00:41:14) Wraps up the discussion, expressing appreciation for shared insights and the importance of leadership development.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli converses with Cotter Cunningham, CEO of Expert Voice and former CEO of RetailMeNot. Cotter shares his entrepreneurial journey, focusing on his experiences with RetailMeNot, a leading coupon and savings platform. They discuss the company’s origins, growth, and challenges, including scaling and going public. Cotter highlights the importance of affiliate marketing, user-generated content, and maintaining a clear customer base. He also reflects on leadership, company culture, and hiring practices. The episode offers valuable insights into building and scaling tech businesses in a competitive landscape. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps: Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02) Julian Castelli introduces the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast and its focus on leadership in tech. Guest Introduction (00:01:12) Julian welcomes Cotter Cunningham, CEO of Expert Voice, and discusses his background with RetailMeNot. Cotter's Entrepreneurial Journey (00:02:48) Cotter shares his experiences and the original idea behind RetailMeNot, emphasizing its unique approach. The Evolution of RetailMeNot (00:03:22) Cotter discusses how he started RetailMeNot and the challenges faced in the early stages. Understanding the Ecosystem (00:05:27) Cotter explains how RetailMeNot operates within the coupon and affiliate marketing ecosystem. Affiliate Marketing Insights (00:08:10) Cotter describes the affiliate marketing model and its significance for retailers and consumers. User-Generated Content Strategy (00:09:49) Cotter highlights the importance of user-generated content in enhancing RetailMeNot's SEO and consumer engagement. International Expansion (00:11:13) Cotter discusses the company's growth and international expansion efforts in the UK and France. Scaling Challenges (00:14:12) Cotter reflects on the scaling challenges faced as RetailMeNot grew rapidly. Going Public Journey (00:15:52) Cotter shares insights about the journey to going public and the revenue milestones achieved. Unique IPO Experience (00:17:39) Cotter recounts the experience of ringing the NASDAQ bell in Austin, making it inclusive for all employees. Building a Positive Company Culture (19:08) Cotter discusses the importance of culture during rapid growth and how he implemented a unique hiring process. The Competitive Landscape in Austin (20:06) Cotter highlights the competitive job market in Austin and the need for a strong company culture to attract talent. The Bar Raiser Interview Process (21:05) Cotter explains the "bar raiser" technique borrowed from Amazon to ensure cultural fit during hiring. The Importance of Values (22:05) Cotter shares insights on corporate values and the significance of genuinely applying them in the workplace. Lessons from Over-Hiring (24:42) Cotter reflects on the challenges of over-hiring and the need for better metrics in staffing decisions. Evaluating Hiring Needs (25:31) He discusses the importance of critically assessing the necessity of each hire and exploring alternatives. Navigating Remote Work Challenges (31:01) Cotter talks about managing a fully remote team and the shift in focus from attendance to outcomes. The Growth of the Austin Tech Scene (34:00) Cotter shares his pride in Austin's tech ecosystem evolution and the increasing job opportunities in the area. Raising Capital Challenges (35:29) He addresses the difficulties entrepreneurs face in raising funds and the realities of venture capital. Broader Background Benefits (00:36:33) Cotter discusses how his finance background helped him excel in marketing and provided valuable analytical skills. Favorite Business Book (00:37:48) Cotter shares his admiration for "Shoe Dog," highlighting Phil Knight's incredible grit and determination in building Nike. Closing Remarks (00:38:22) Julian thanks Cotter for sharing his story and expresses eagerness to continue supporting entrepreneurs together. Podcast Outro (00:38:43) The host encourages listeners to follow and subscribe, and invites them to visit for more leadership resources.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Dan Chapman, a go-to-market advisor and fractional Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) specializing in early-stage B2B SaaS companies. Dan shares his journey from a technical founder to a GTM leader, emphasizing the importance of the "selling to learn" phase. He discusses key concepts such as product-market fit, the transition from founder-led sales to initial sales teams, and the development of effective sales playbooks. The conversation provides valuable insights for tech founders on refining sales processes and achieving scalable growth. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps: Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02)Julian Castelli welcomes listeners to the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, discussing its purpose and format. Guest Introduction (00:01:20)Julian introduces Dan Chapman, a go-to-market advisor specializing in early-stage B2B SaaS companies. Dan's Background and Journey (00:02:57)Dan shares his unique path from technical founder to go-to-market expert, highlighting lessons learned from mistakes. Military Experience's Impact (00:04:03)Dan discusses how his military background shaped his understanding of leadership and organizational dynamics. Transition to Consulting (00:05:03)After working at McKinsey and Google, Dan explains his decision to pursue advisory roles with startups. Google's Role in Startups (00:06:30)Dan describes his experience at Google, helping acquired startups leverage distribution advantages for growth. Selling to Learn vs. Selling to Scale (00:08:27)Dan distinguishes between the two stages, emphasizing the importance of refining messaging before scaling. Defining Product-Market Fit (00:09:37)Dan elaborates on product-market fit, highlighting the need for traction, consistency, and momentum in sales. Documenting the Learning Process (00:11:15)Dan stresses the importance of founders documenting their sales processes to optimize learning and strategy. Transitioning from Founder to Non-Founder Sales (00:13:05)Dan discusses the challenges founders face when transitioning sales responsibilities to new team members. Consistency in Sales (00:14:13)Dan emphasizes the need for consistency in customer engagement and product usage during the selling phase. Scaling Beyond the Founder (00:16:48)Dan outlines strategies for founders to effectively scale sales beyond their personal efforts. Sales Playbook Development (00:19:06)Discusses the importance of having a structured sales playbook for effective training and onboarding of new salespeople. Training New Salespeople (00:19:18)Highlights the challenges faced when new salespeople lack proper training and understanding of the sales cycle. Sales Process and Playbooks (00:20:23)Explains the different types of sales processes and the necessity for tailored playbooks for transactional and enterprise sales. Hiring a Sales Leader (00:22:29)Details the ideal timing for hiring a sales leader based on company traction and the readiness of the sales team. Resources for Sales Skills (00:25:25)Recommends valuable books and resources for improving sales skills and understanding sales strategies.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Rob Silas, co-founder and CEO of ObservePoint. Rob details his journey in establishing ObservePoint, a Tech Company focused on data privacy and governance in marketing technology. He discusses the initial challenges of finding product-market fit, securing enterprise customers, and the funding journey. Rob also highlights the importance of building a strong company culture and shares lessons learned, such as the value of mentorship and maintaining mental and physical health. The episode offers valuable insights for tech leaders and entrepreneurs navigating their own growth journeys. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps: Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02) Julian introduces the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast and its purpose of sharing insights from tech leaders. Introduction of Rob Seolas (00:01:20) Julian welcomes Rob Seolas, highlighting his achievements and role as co-founder and CEO of ObservePoint. Background on ObservePoint (00:02:31) Rob shares the inception of ObservePoint and its focus on data privacy and governance in marketing technology. Catalyst for Starting ObservePoint (00:03:28) Rob discusses the initial market pain points that drove the creation of ObservePoint, focusing on martech governance. Challenges in Martech Implementation (00:04:34) Rob explains the complexities faced by marketers managing various martech technologies on their websites. Finding Product-Market Fit (00:05:53) Rob recounts the journey to discover product-market fit, highlighting their first major customer, Turner. Bootstrapping and Early Challenges (00:07:37) Rob reflects on the challenges of bootstrapping and the difficulties faced with a lightweight product for heavyweight clients. Raising Capital (00:10:09) Rob discusses the decision to seek capital due to competition and the need for resources to grow. Series A Funding Experience (00:11:10) Rob shares insights from their successful Series A funding round and their growth trajectory post-funding. Preparing for Series B (00:12:16) Rob outlines the milestones that indicated readiness for a Series B funding round, including customer growth. Technology Challenges and Growth (00:13:22) Rob describes the technical challenges faced while scaling ObservePoint and the impact on customer retention. Advice for Overcoming Challenges (00:14:55) Rob offers advice on managing technology development and scaling effectively in a competitive market. Proud Achievements and Company Culture (00:17:20) Rob highlights significant accomplishments, including awards and the strong corporate culture at ObservePoint. Company Culture and Connections (00:18:18) Rob reflects on the enjoyable work experience and strong connections formed at ObservePoint. Transition to Auto (00:19:05) Julian prompts Rob to share his experience with a new business called Auto post-COVID. Rebranding Auto (00:19:17) Rob discusses rebranding the company from "First Secure Administrators" to "Auto" for better market alignment. Challenges in the Automobile Industry (00:20:29) Rob explains the instability in the auto market and the need for a tech-focused approach. Spinning Off Metrics AI (00:21:10) Rob shares the decision to create Metrics AI by extracting the tech side from Auto. Lessons from Experience (00:22:14) Rob reflects on the importance of finding coaches and expertise for business growth. The Importance of Coaching (00:23:19) Rob emphasizes the value of performance coaching for CEOs, comparing it to Olympic athletes. Finding the Right Coaches (00:24:26) Rob discusses the challenge of finding effective coaches and the perception of CEOs needing help. Transitioning to Coaching (00:25:07) Rob shares his experience with Petra, a coaching group focused on helping businesses scale. Scaling Executive Teams (00:26:25) Rob highlights the importance of executive teams evolving as businesses grow. Mental and Physical Health (00:28:40) Rob talks about the significance of longevity science and its impact on future leadership. Recommendations for Longevity (00:30:15) Rob suggests resources like Brian Johnson and David Sinclair for practical longevity advice. Key Aspects of Health (00:32:09) Rob outlines efficient exercise and diet strategies for maintaining health and longevity. Mental Health Awareness (00:33:10) Rob emphasizes the importance of mental and emotional health in overall well-being. Contacting Rob Seolas (00:33:53) Rob shares how listeners can connect with him via LinkedIn or email.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli unpacks the 2nd half of the old adage Fire Fast/Hire Slow and digs into the details of how to hire well by hiring slow. He emphasizes the importance of a structured and data-driven hiring process, advocating for standardized job descriptions, candidate scorecards, and a consistent interview process. Key points include the philosophy of "hiring slow and hiring well," the benefits of data-driven decisions, and the efficiency gained from a structured approach. The episode concludes with a call to action for leaders to refine their hiring practices to ensure better outcomes and stronger teams. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps: Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02)Julian Castelli welcomes listeners and introduces the theme of effective hiring in tech companies. The Importance of Hiring Slowly (00:00:27)Discussion on the balance between hiring slowly and ensuring quality hires without unnecessary delays. Structured Hiring Processes (00:01:13)Emphasis on using structured and data-driven approaches to improve hiring quality. Challenges in Hiring (00:02:22)Exploration of the difficulties and anxieties associated with the hiring process. Refining the Hiring Process (00:05:22)Suggestions for creating a structured hiring process to improve outcomes. Standard Job Descriptions (00:06:25)Importance of having standardized job descriptions across teams for clarity and consistency. Defining Roles and Responsibilities (00:07:19)Focus on specifying clear outcomes and responsibilities in job descriptions. Professional Qualifications and Characteristics (00:08:17)Advice on limiting qualifications and personal characteristics to ensure focused evaluations. Screening Interview Process (00:10:23)Recommendation for a preliminary screening to filter candidates before executive interviews. Standardized Scorecards (00:10:30)Introduction of a standardized scorecard for consistent evaluation of candidates. Interview Structure and Evidence Gathering (00:11:30)Outline of how to conduct interviews using scorecards to gather compelling evidence. Scoring Candidates (00:14:18)Explanation of how to score candidates based on their interview performance and characteristics. Data-Driven Decision Making (00:16:08)Highlighting the benefits of using data from scorecards to make informed hiring decisions. Collaborative Review of Scores (00:17:07)Encouragement for team discussions to refine candidate evaluations based on scorecard data. Data-Driven Hiring Process (00:18:06)Discussion on using data to identify top candidates through structured interviews and scorecards. Structured Approach Benefits (00:18:55)Explains how a disciplined, structured hiring process can lead to better outcomes without taking much extra time. Confidence in Hiring (00:19:59)Emphasizes the importance of structured job descriptions and processes in enabling confident hiring decisions. Closing Remarks and Resources (00:20:28)Encourages listeners to subscribe, recommend the podcast, and explore additional resources on leadership.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Patrick Brandt, a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader. Patrick shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges and successes he encountered while founding and leading various companies, including Shiftsmart. He discusses the impact of the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic on his ventures, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability. Patrick also highlights the significance of balancing supply and demand in a marketplace, the role of partnerships, and the necessity of understanding the labor pool to ensure business success. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps: Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:02)Julian Castelli welcomes listeners and introduces the episode's focus on leadership challenges in tech companies. Guest Introduction (00:00:30)Julian introduces Patrick Brandt, highlighting his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he faced traveling to the podcast. Patrick's Early Entrepreneurial Spirit (00:01:32)Patrick shares his background, mentioning his early ventures in entrepreneurship, including a lawn mowing business at age 11. The Seminal Moment (00:02:18)Patrick recounts a pivotal moment when his father's company was taken over, igniting his resolve to never work for anyone else. First Company Launch (00:03:17)He discusses starting his first company in 1996 and the challenges faced during the dot-com crash. Investment and Growth (00:04:19)Patrick talks about securing investment and the challenges of selling software during the early 2000s. Acquisition Experience (00:06:15)He describes acquiring a public company and navigating the challenges of leading a much larger organization. 2008 Financial Crisis Impact (00:08:13)Patrick reflects on the challenges faced during the 2008 financial crisis, despite having a successful business at the time. Transition to New Ventures (00:11:09)After selling his company, Patrick discusses his recruitment to run an on-premise company and subsequent successes. Introduction to Shift Smart (00:12:23)Patrick introduces Shift Smart, a company focused on flexible labor solutions in the gig economy. Shift Smart's Mission (00:13:14)He explains the company's mission to help workers stack shifts across multiple jobs to increase flexibility. Raising Funds and Initial Growth (00:14:21)Patrick discusses raising funds in late 2019 and the company's growth trajectory before the pandemic. COVID-19 Impact (00:15:46)He describes the immediate impact of COVID-19 on Shift Smart's business operations and workforce. Innovative Response to Food Insecurity (00:16:59)Patrick shares how they pivoted to help food banks by employing laid-off workers during the pandemic. Launch of Nonprofit Initiative (00:18:06)He details the creation of a nonprofit to employ out-of-work hospitality workers in food banks. Community Support and Media Attention (00:19:07)The initiative gained media coverage, showcasing a creative solution to COVID-related challenges in the community. Shift Smart's Rapid Growth (00:20:10)Patrick shares the rapid expansion of Shift Smart into 12 cities, raising $16 million and serving 60 million meals. The Call Center Challenge (00:21:05)Patrick discusses a last-minute request from the SBA to set up a call center in just 72 hours. Partnership and Problem-Solving (00:22:15)Despite initial setbacks, Patrick and his partner strategize to meet the SBA's urgent call center needs. Recruiting and Implementing (00:24:09)They face the challenge of recruiting 3,600 people and implementing necessary software in a tight timeframe. Unexpected Outcomes (00:25:08)Despite being prepared, no calls came in, but the program became significant for the SBA and their business. Navigating Zero Revenue (00:27:14)Patrick recounts the drastic drop to zero revenue and their decision not to lay off any employees during the crisis. Adapting to Market Changes (00:29:18)The pandemic shifted their business model from hospitality to on-demand labor, changing their workforce dynamics. Rapid Worker Growth (00:30:12)Shift Smart experienced unprecedented growth, reaching nearly 4 million workers on the platform in a short period. Investment and Leadership Transition (00:31:33)In late 2021, they secured $100 million in funding, leading Patrick to step back from daily operations. Nonprofit Efficiency (00:32:14)Patrick praises Akash for revolutionizing nonprofit operations, improving efficiency and throughput during their initiatives. Lessons on Partnerships (00:35:53)Patrick emphasizes the importance of choosing partners with aligned values and experiences for navigating challenges. Marketplace Challenges (00:39:00)Discussion on the cold start problem in marketplace businesses and strategies to balance supply and demand effectively. Marketplace Dynamics (00:39:08)Discussion on the challenges of balancing supply and demand in a marketplace. Market Maker Importance (00:40:10)Explanation of the concept of a market maker and its critical role in marketplace success. Guaranteed Stock Strategy (00:40:13)Illustration of Uber's strategy of guaranteeing driver availability during city launches. Shift Fulfillment Challenges (00:41:02)Insights into the necessity of achieving 100% fulfillment in staffing to maintain business. Magic Moment Concept (00:42:25)Discussion on creating 'magic moments' in the marketplace, akin to dating app matches. Labor Flexibility and Demographics (00:43:46)Overview of the diverse labor pool, including retirees and part-time workers seeking flexibility. Conclusion and Gratitude (00:45:07)Closing remarks and thanks to the guest for sharing insights despite challenges faced.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Rob Castaneda, founder of ServiceRocket. They discuss the importance of SaaS companies understanding customer needs and filling service gaps beyond their core product offerings. Rob emphasizes the significance of building a profitable ecosystem with foundational partners to ensure dedicated attention and success. He shares insights from his experience with Atlassian, highlighting the need for a partner like ServiceRocket to provide professional services and support to customers, enabling them to fully utilize software within their unique business environments. The conversation also touches on the concepts from Geoffrey Moore's "Crossing the Chasm" and the importance of recognizing that people, not logos, buy software. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Welcome to the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast (00:00:02) Introduction to the podcast and its purpose. Introduction to Growth Elevated and Tech Summit (00:00:27) Promotion of the Growth Elevated community and its offerings. Introduction to Rob Castaneda and Service Rocket (00:01:10) Background and introduction of Rob Castaneda, founder of ServiceRocket, and his association with Atlassian. Rob's Triathlon Experience (00:02:29) Rob shares his experience as a lousy triathlete and the challenges he faced. Service Rocket's Early Engagement with Atlassian (00:04:44) Rob narrates the early days of ServiceRocket's collaboration with Atlassian and their role in promoting Jira. Service Rocket's Training Approach (00:11:41) Discussion about ServiceRocket's training strategy and the transition from early adopters to the early majority. Service Rocket's Professional Services (00:18:11) Details about ServiceRocket's professional services and their approach to enabling and empowering customers. Conclusion and Overview of Service Rocket (00:19:49) Summary of ServiceRocket's unique approach and the importance of understanding customer nuance. Filling the Gaps in SaaS Business (00:20:24) Discussion on the conventional wisdom of valuing SaaS companies based on subscription revenue and the potential gaps it leaves for customers. Understanding the Customer's Ecosystem (00:21:36) Exploration of the importance of understanding and catering to the customer's ecosystem for successful SaaS adoption and expansion. Building an Ecosystem (00:24:00) Insights into the process of building an ecosystem for SaaS companies and the role of foundational partners in the ecosystem. Clarity and Communication with Partners (00:32:39) Importance of internal clarity and treating partners as an extension of the team for successful collaboration. Journey of Building a Business (00:36:11) Challenges and lessons learned in the journey of building a business, including leadership, cultural understanding, and mentorship. Networking and Mentorship (00:38:15) The significance of mentorship, networking, and paying it forward in business and leadership. Where to Find Rob (00:40:13) Information on where to connect with Rob Castaneda, including his company website, LinkedIn, and his substack on leadership behaviors. Thank you (00:40:46) Closing remarks and gratitude expressed by the speakers. Podcast promotion (00:40:52) Encouragement for listeners to follow, subscribe, and recommend the podcast, along with a website invitation. Closing (00:41:13) Final thank you and sign-off from the host.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Blake Harber, a seasoned sales executive with experience in SaaS companies like HireVue Workstream and Lucid. Blake shares his stories from his leadership journey at Workstream, an applicant tracking system for the hourly workforce. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Blake led a strategic pivot to focus on the restaurant sector, resulting in significant growth. He discusses his experience scaling sales teams, achieving product-market fit, and leveraging networking and educational institutions for recruitment. The episode provides valuable insights into overcoming challenges and driving growth in technology companies. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps: Scaling Sales Team (00:18:09)Blake discusses hiring over 60 sales reps and the challenges of scaling. Signs of Product Market Fit (00:18:29)The speakers explore the indicators that confirm achieving product market fit. Market Pull and Sales Success (00:18:54)Blake explains how market demand accelerated their sales cycle and referrals. Recruiting Strategies (00:20:38)Blake shares his effective recruiting methods and networking experience in Utah. Growth and Revenue Milestones (00:23:01)Discussion on the company's revenue growth from 1 million to over 20 million. Funding Success (00:23:50)Blake details raising a $100 million Series B funding round and its implications. Transition to Consulting (00:24:40)Blake talks about his move to consulting after stepping away from Workstream. Engagement Flexibility (00:26:17)Blake describes his adaptable consulting engagements and their duration. Focus on SMB Market (00:27:14)Blake clarifies his specialization in SMB and lower mid-market companies. Contact Information (00:27:41)Blake shares how listeners can reach out to him for consulting opportunities.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, we interview Davis Bell, CEO of Canopy, a SaaS platform for accounting practices. They discuss Canopy's journey, including its growth from 100 to 170 employees and a 4-5x revenue increase since Bell joined in 2019. Bell highlights the challenges of prioritizing product development, navigating COVID-19, and raising capital, including a recent $35 million funding round. They also delve into leadership lessons, emphasizing transparency, team autonomy, and the importance of listening and curiosity in achieving better results. Bell shares insights on maintaining high employee engagement and navigating market challenges. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps (by podsqueeze): The journey of Canopy (00:00:02) David Bell discusses the growth and challenges faced by Canopy, a SaaS company serving accounting practices. Raising funding (00:01:46) David Bell talks about Canopy's successful funding round of $35 million and the challenges of raising capital during a tough economy. What Canopy does (00:02:15) David Bell explains that Canopy is a firm-wide operating system for accounting firms, managing customer information, communication, collaboration, time tracking, and more. Challenges and growth of Canopy (00:03:10) David Bell shares the challenges and growth of Canopy, including the decision to focus on practice management and the company's revenue and team growth. Building a system of record (00:06:02) David Bell discusses the challenges of building a comprehensive system of record for accounting firms and the decision to build the entire platform. Raising capital and market challenges (00:07:47) David Bell talks about the challenges of raising capital, re-educating investors, and navigating market dynamics to secure funding. Series A and Series B funding (00:09:16) David Bell discusses the traction in the marketplace that led to the successful Series A and Series B funding rounds for Canopy. Investor value and confidence (00:11:37) David Bell emphasizes the importance of investors' behavior during challenges and the value of topical expertise in investors. Navigating COVID-19 impact (00:15:03) David Bell discusses the challenges of transitioning to remote work and the decision-making process regarding office and remote work arrangements. Pride in the team and employee satisfaction (00:17:42) David Bell expresses pride in Canopy's team, low attrition, and high employee NPS, highlighting the company's positive work culture. Employee NPS and Transparency (00:18:03) Discussion on the company's employee Net Promoter Score (NPS) and the impact of transparency on employee satisfaction. Leadership Conception (00:23:03) The evolution of the speaker's leadership style, moving away from the traditional "visionary leader" model. Impact of Curiosity on Decision-Making (00:25:12) The benefits of leading with curiosity and openness, with a specific example of how it led to a better outcome. Financial Planning and Optionality (00:27:04) The importance of structuring financial plans to maintain control and optionality, with lessons learned from previous funding experiences. Future Goals and AI Investment (00:30:46) The company's future plans, including investment in AI and expansion into adjacent products. Recommended Learning Resources (00:31:44) The speaker's recommended newsletters and podcasts for staying informed and learning about AI and tech. Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up (00:32:51) Closing remarks and gratitude for the conversation, concluding the podcast episode.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, host Julian Castelli interviews Amelia Wilcox, founder and CEO of Nivati. They discuss the company's pivot during the pandemic from providing onsite massage therapy to virtual wellness services, addressing the increased need for accessible mental health resources. Amelia shares the challenges of adapting to market trends, selling to HR departments, and the impact of the economic downturn on venture-backed tech companies. She also talks about Nivati’s strategic shift to focus on healthcare and education sectors, her personal journey as an entrepreneur, and the importance of self-care and mentoring. Amelia recommends resources for personal and professional growth, including the "How I Built This" podcast and books like "Extreme Ownership." For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps (by podsqueeze): Welcome to the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast (00:00:02) Introduction to the podcast and its purpose. Introduction to NovoMoto and Amelia Wilcox (00:01:17) Description of NovoMoto's business and Amelia Wilcox's background. Starting NovoMoto and Adapting to COVID-19 (00:02:10) Amelia explains how NovoMoto started and how they adapted to the challenges of COVID-19. Challenges in Selling to Employers (00:05:02) Discussion about the challenges of selling NovoMoto's services to employers and the business model. Growth and Fundraising (00:06:00) Amelia discusses NovoMoto's growth and recent fundraising success. Impact of NovoMoto's Services (00:07:14) Amelia shares the impact of NovoMoto's services on mental health and well-being. Educating Employers and Addressing Market Trends (00:09:16) Discussion about educating employers and addressing the growing awareness of mental health. Business Model Challenges and Market Trends (00:10:44) Challenges in selling NovoMoto's services to HR and addressing market trends in mental health. Selling NovoMoto's Services and Addressing Market Needs (00:13:42) Reasons why employers add NovoMoto to their benefits packages and addressing market needs. Challenges in Selling to Employers and Market Trends (00:15:10) Challenges in selling NovoMoto's services to employers and market trends affecting sales. Adapting to Changes in the Venture Community (00:16:56) Discussion about the impact of changes in the venture community and potential pivots for NovoMoto. Adapting to Business Challenges (00:17:47) Adapting to challenges in working with venture-funded businesses and addressing customer needs. Identifying New Markets (00:17:56) Amelia discusses the need to pivot and focus on healthcare and education markets due to stalled revenue and competition. Strategic Approach to New Markets (00:18:43) Amelia explains the approach of running campaigns and analyzing the focus within healthcare and education markets. Exploring Opportunities in Healthcare (00:20:15) Amelia discusses the experimentation and efforts to explore specialized healthcare brokers and conferences. Lessons Learned and Personal Growth (00:21:09) Amelia reflects on personal growth, fear of failure, and the realization of employability beyond entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurial Challenges and Mental Health (00:23:08) Amelia shares insights on the pressures of fundraising, burnout, and the importance of taking breaks. Mentoring and Self-Care (00:25:45) Amelia discusses mentoring female entrepreneurs and the need for self-care during challenging periods. Favorite Podcasts and Books (00:28:36) Amelia shares her favorite podcasts and books related to entrepreneurship, leadership, and mental health. Closing Remarks (00:30:08) Julian concludes the conversation and encourages listeners to follow and subscribe to the podcast.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, we speak with Dave Carruthers the Co Founder and former CEO of Voxpopme, a leading digital insights platform for large consumer product companies.  Dave describes the lessons from his journey of expanding into the US market and growing the Company into an industry leader. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps (by podsqueeze): The founding of Voxpopme (00:00:02) The journey of building a tech company, the founding story, and the initial stages of Voxpopme's creation. The idea behind Voxpopme (00:01:03) The concept behind Voxpopme, the rise of video surveys, and the need for consumer brands to understand their customers better. Challenges in introducing video surveys (00:04:01) Challenges faced in convincing corporate customers to adopt video surveys, including changing long-standing behaviors and relationships in the industry. Moving Voxpopme to the US (00:10:00) The challenges and impact of moving Voxpopme from the UK to the US, including the decision to raise capital in the US and the strategic move of a co-founder to establish the base. Critical hires for US expansion (00:17:00) The key hires made for go-to-market expansion in the US, including experienced salespeople, a customer success leader, and a VP of marketing. Building a Reputation at Events (00:18:14) Discussing the impact of attending events and conferences in building a brand and attracting industry talent. Challenges of Moving to the US (00:19:08) Exploring the difficulties and impacts of moving the company from the UK to the US, including hiring, compensation, and cultural differences. Lessons from Geographical Expansion (00:21:49) Reflecting on the challenges and lessons learned from expanding into different regions, such as APAC and EMEA. Scaling the Business and Hiring Challenges (00:25:02) Discussing the challenges faced in scaling the business and hiring senior roles, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and leadership. Partnerships and Focus (00:28:01) Exploring the challenges and lessons learned from pursuing partnerships and the importance of focusing on core products for scaling. Resilience and Leadership Transition (00:31:09) Discussing the resilience required in startup leadership and the self-awareness needed to transition leadership based on strengths and skills. New Venture: Zeeda (00:34:15) Introducing a new marketplace business, Zeeda, focused on group buying in the outdoor industry and plans for expansion. Connect with Dave Carruthers (00:36:23) Providing contact information for connecting with Dave Carruthers on LinkedIn and Twitter and accessing information about Zeeda.

In this Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast episode, Deepak Sindwani, co-founder of Wave Crest Growth Partners, shares his experiences in the growth equity sector, focusing on B2B software companies. He recounts his path from Bain Capital Ventures and Comcast Ventures to establishing his own growth equity firm, emphasizing the importance of resilience and humility. Deepak explains Wave Crest's operating platform, which offers comprehensive support to portfolio companies, and details the success stories of some of his portfolio companies. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Timestamps (by podsqueeze): Welcome to the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast (00:00:02) Introduction to the podcast and its purpose. Deepak's Journey to Wave Crest Partners (00:00:27) Deepak Simone's background and experience in the investing business. Founding Wave Crest Partners (00:01:51) Deepak's entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Wave Crest Partners. Initial Struggles and First Fundraising (00:05:04) Challenges faced during the initial stages of founding the firm and raising the first round of capital. Growth and Expansion of Wave Crest Partners (00:10:34) The growth of Wave Crest Partners from two people to a team of 15 and the raising of their first fund. Investment Strategy and Target Companies (00:12:04) Defining growth equity and the target range for investment in companies. Supporting Founders in Growth and Expansion (00:15:55) The role of Wave Crest Partners in assisting companies in the $5 to $20 million ARR range with growth and expansion strategies. Value-Added Support for Portfolio Companies (00:18:11) The expertise and value-added support that Wave Crest Partners provides to portfolio companies on their growth journey. The Wave Crest Operating Platform (00:18:55) Deepak explains the five pillars of value and support offered to founder-led capital-efficient B2B software companies. Impel (00:20:20) Deepak discusses the journey of a company named Impel (formerly Spin Car) and its evolution from a digital merchandising solution to an augmented reality platform for the automotive industry. Challenges and Adaptation during COVID-19 (00:23:15) Deepak shares how Impel faced challenges during COVID-19, initially experiencing a downturn and then benefiting from the shift in consumer behavior. Acquisition and Evolution (00:25:34) Discussion on the acquisition of a conversational AI business and its integration into Impel's product, leading to a change in the company's vision and trajectory. Growth and Partnership (00:28:03) Deepak highlights Impel's growth, diversification of risk for the founders, and the partnership between Wave Crest and the company. Recommendations (00:30:23) Deepak shares podcast and book recommendations, including "All In" podcast, "Smart Lists" podcast, and books by Charlie Munger and the philosophy of "Die with Zero." Contact Information (00:33:29) Deepak shares how to connect with Wave Crest and himself for further discussions and collaborations.

In this episode of the Growth Elevated Leadership Podcast, we hear from Andy Barraclough - Co Founder and CEO of Voxpopme.  Andy shares how he has led the innovation and R&D groups at the Company with a “Product First” approach.  This has allowed the Company to be at the leading edge of real time video feedback and work with some of the largest consumer product companies in the world!  Check out the podcast and let us know what you think! For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠.

Can the SaaS model be applied to professional sports? Join me as I speak with Chris Giles, CEO of FanRally who is pioneering a new subscription service for professional sports teams. Is this the wave of the future? Hear how Chris believes subscription and club benefits provide a way for teams to build more direct connectivity with their fans, and provide those fans with a more intimate, value added experience.

Lonnie Mayne, former President of SaaS Company InMoment shares the story of how he helped grow the Company as a member of the early founding team.  Later, as the Company grew Lonnie helped with mergers and acquisitions and played a critical role in shaping the unique culture of the Company that helped it compete for large clients like McDonalds.  Lonnie’s impact with culture was a hit, so much so that he was soon speaking externally about his new “Red Shoes” culture, and he eventually wrote a book about it! For more resources on how to be a a better leaders in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠.

Darren Dunn shares the story of how he founded Zartico⁠, and built the team that helped grow the Company into a successful data driven SaaS/DaaS company. Zartico is a Company that powers the possibility of place by helping tourism boards and destination management organizations understand the who, what, when and where of their visitors. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠.

Eric Morgan shares how as CEO he grew ⁠⁠⁠⁠Workfront⁠, a SaaS project management platform 5X in five years, and set the Company on a successful path to continued growth and an eventual $Billion+ strategic sale in 2020. For more resources on how to be a a better leader in business, please visit us at ⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠, and follow us on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠.

Does closing your next round feel as hard as finding a good outcome for a losing land war in Asia? Unfortunately, you are not alone in this difficult financing environment. I have talked with so many Founders and Tech leaders who are currently struggling to get new equity financing. In this episode, we explore some of the most challenging cap table "traps" to avoid, and some strategies for ensuring you don't get stuck in a capital trap. For more resources on how to be a better leader, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Wondering how to proactively position your company to be acquired some day? Strategic partnerships are a tried and true strategy.  In this episode of the Podcast, Scott Stone, former Chief Strategy Officer of Chargeback.com, explains how Chargeback formed and grew a successful partnership with Sift that allowed them to create a repeatable sales motion with mutual customers and prospects that accelerated their sales cycle.  The process worked so well that it eventually triggered strategic discussions between the companies that led to Chargeback’s acquisition by Sift in 2021. For more resources on how to be a better leader, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠GrowthElevated.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠.