In this episode of Some Disruptors, hosts Mack McKelvey and Heidi Kiele welcome marketing expert Genean Jones to explore the critical role of strategic go-to-market approaches in driving sustainable business growth. With extensive experience across enterprises like Nextel, Sprint, AOL, and Comcast, as well as startups, Genean shares insights on transforming marketing from a cost center to a revenue-driving powerhouse.

Episode Highlights:

• How modern go-to-market strategies require collaboration between marketing, sales, product, and customer success to drive sustainable growth

• The evolving relationship between marketing and sales, including the controversial debate about where SDRs (Sales Development Representatives) should sit

• Why chief growth officers are replacing traditional CMO roles and what this means for marketing teams

• The importance of data-driven decision making and rapid optimization in marketing campaigns

• A provocative proposal for shared commission structures between sales and marketing teams

Key Takeaways:

• Marketing is both a science and an art - successful marketers balance data analysis with creative strategy

• Customer success teams provide invaluable insights that should inform marketing strategies

• The most effective go-to-market approaches involve cross-functional collaboration rather than siloed efforts

• In today's digital environment, marketers must demonstrate both short-term results and long-term strategic value

• Staying current with AI and automation tools is essential for marketers to remain competitive and demonstrate value

Whether you're a startup marketer looking to establish a robust go-to-market strategy or an established business seeking to optimize your growth engine, this episode provides actionable insights for turning marketing into a strategic lever for sustainable business success.