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In the latest episode of the Growth Leap Podcast, I had a great chat with Sharath Kuruganty. Sharath’s a serial maker, a successful SaaS founder, and a key player in various online communities. He’s the brain behind projects like Guest Lab, an AI research assistant that helps podcast hosts streamline guest research.

You’ve probably seen his influence across platforms like Product Hunt, Draft Bit, On Deck, and Threado, where he’s been instrumental in driving community engagement. On top of that, he’s also the host of two popular podcasts: Undefeated Underdogs and YC Founder Stories.

We dove deep into the art of building authentic communities and audiences—a space where Sharath truly excels. We talked about the challenges podcasters face, especially when it comes to the often time-consuming task of guest research. That’s where his project, Guest Lab, comes in handy, offering a solution to make this process smoother. We also covered his use of no-code tools, his work with technical co-founders, and his journey through Y Combinator, sharing the lessons he’s learned along the way.

We covered

• Guest Lab: From a Spark to a Full-Fledged Tool
• Podcasting Pains and How to Overcome Them
• No-Code Development: Challenges and Winning Strategies
• Y Combinator: The Application and What’s Next
• Sharath’s Playbook for Community and Audience Growth
• Should Every Company Invest in Community Building?
• Top Tips for Creating a Thriving Community
• Why Founders Should Lead Community Building
• Balancing Audience Growth with Daily Life
• Sharath’s Podcasting Journey: The Inside Story
• Unforgettable Podcast Guests and Their Stories
• Podcasting Takeaways and Future Ambitions
• Looking Forward: Goals and Final Thoughts

Where to find Sharath:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarath-kuruganty
• X: https://x.com/5harath
• Website: 5harath.com
• GuestLab: https://guestlab.ai/
• Podcast: undefeatedunderdogs.com

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Where to find Michel:

• Newsletter: https://www.stunandawe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheljgagnon/
• X: https://twitter.com/michelgagnon

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

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Send us Fan Mail

Most OKR frameworks focus on what you want to accomplish, but not how. They’re great for setting strategy and direction, but they don’t help you identify the tactical tasks that will get those things done. The real stumbling block ain’t the strategies or the OKRs, it’s how they align with daily tasks. That’s where most OKR frameworks fall short.

In this episode, I share how you can make OKRs work better for you and your team. To come up with a framework that works in real life, we borrowed some elements of Andy Grove’s OKR model and Richard Rumelt’s kernel of good strategy and then connected them to the projects and daily work.

I work you through the key sections including a shared diagnosis, a clear strategy, measurable objectives, and a practical roadmap. This simple structure then syncs daily activities with overarching goals and helps your team connect the big-picture strategy with the daily grind.

You can get our Notion OKR Template here: https://stunandawe.gumroad.com/l/strategy-okr-notion-template 

Here's what I cover:

• The Problem with Traditional OKRs
• Building a Better OKR Framework with Notion
• Diagnosing Your Current Reality
• Designing Your Strategy
• Setting Objectives and Key Results
• Creating a Roadmap and Initiatives
• Implementing with Sprints and Tasks

Where to find Michel:

• Newsletter: https://www.stunandawe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheljgagnon/
• X: https://twitter.com/michelgagnon

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Most OKR frameworks focus on what you want to accomplish, but not how. They’re great for setting strategy and direction, but they don’t help you identify the tactical tasks that will get those things done. The real stumbling block ain’t the strategies or the OKRs, it’s how they align with daily tasks. That’s where most OKR frameworks fall short.

In this episode, I share how you can make OKRs work better for you and your team. To come up with a framework that works in real life, we borrowed some elements of Andy Grove’s OKR model and Richard Rumelt’s kernel of good strategy and then connected them to the projects and daily work.

I work you through the key sections including a shared diagnosis, a clear strategy, measurable objectives, and a practical roadmap. This simple structure then syncs daily activities with overarching goals and helps your team connect the big-picture strategy with the daily grind.

You can get our Notion OKR Template here: https://stunandawe.gumroad.com/l/strategy-okr-notion-template 

Here's what I cover:

• The Problem with Traditional OKRs
• Building a Better OKR Framework with Notion
• Diagnosing Your Current Reality
• Designing Your Strategy
• Setting Objectives and Key Results
• Creating a Roadmap and Initiatives
• Implementing with Sprints and Tasks

Where to find Michel:

• Newsletter: https://www.stunandawe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheljgagnon/
• X: https://twitter.com/michelgagnon

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

On this episode of the Growth Leap Podcast, I chat with Christian Hoppe, co-founder of Forwrd Agency. This digital marketing agency has cracked the code for driving revenue for sustainable e-commerce brands with YouTube ads. With over 15 years of experience in digital marketing and advertising, Christian shares how he discovered the power of YouTube ads as a performance channel and his unconventional approach to designing effective creatives.

Key Takeaways

• YouTube ads are a powerhouse for direct response marketing, driving significant revenue for e-commerce brands.
• Success hinges on precise targeting and smart creative content. The goal is to engage the right audience and prompt action, not just chase high view-through rates.
• Start your YouTube ad budget at $10,000 to $20,000 monthly, but ensure your product or service truly fits the market.
• Quality and structure of creative content are critical to ad performance.
• Close collaboration with clients on creative development and media buying is essential for achieving top results and exceeding client expectations.

Where to find Christian:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianmhoppe/
• Forwrd Agency: https://www.forwrd.agency/
• Blog & Newsletter: https://www.forwrdthinking.com

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Where to find Michel:

• Newsletter: https://www.stunandawe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheljgagnon/
• X: https://twitter.com/michelgagnon

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Melissa Kwan, co-founder and CEO of eWebinar. eWebinar is a platform that automates webinars using prerecorded videos. Melissa is a three-time bootstrap founder, digital nomad, and host of the Profit Led Podcast. As an entrepreneur, she's driven by her desire to create a business that aligns with her personal values and lifestyle. In our conversation, Melissa shared a wealth of insights on webinar automation, remote team management, and the importance of prioritizing happiness over revenue.

Key Takeaways:

• eWebinar's Automation: The platform automates webinars with prerecorded videos, saving time and enabling business growth without the need for constant live presence.
• Unique Approach: eWebinar offers a "Netflix of webinars" experience, featuring interactive elements, chat functionality, and a user-friendly design.
• High Attendance Rates: Thanks to flexible scheduling and on-demand options, eWebinar boasts high attendance rates, catering to various business verticals.
• Bootstrapped Growth: Melissa's zero-dollar marketing strategies include podcast marketing, LinkedIn engagement, and content SEO.
• Remote Team Management: Successfully managing a remote team of contractors requires clear communication and well-defined processes.
• Happiness Over Revenue: Prioritizing lifestyle and happiness is crucial for building a fulfilling and sustainable business.
• Aligning with Values: Align your business with your personal values and non-negotiables for long-term success and satisfaction.
• Continuous Improvement: Constantly refine your platform and deliver value to customers to drive growth and retention.

Where to find Melissa:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissakwan/
• ProfitLed Podcast: https://ewebinar.com/profitled-podcast
• Website: https://ewebinar.com/

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Where to find Michel:

• Newsletter: https://www.stunandawe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheljgagnon/
• X: https://twitter.com/michelgagnon

‍

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Send us Fan Mail

David Pereira is CEO of Omoco and a seasoned product leader with 15 years of experience, primarily in the digital product development sphere. David shares his journey from a software engineer to a leading role in product management, and now as the CEO and  CPO of Omoco, a company innovating in the maritime industry with a user-friendly Terminal Operating System (TOS). 

He highlights the common traps that product teams face and elucidates on the criticality of distinguishing between customers' wants and needs, especially in the B2B segment. David also delves into how he manages product discovery, prioritization, and the integration of AI into product management. 

He shares practical advice on the importance of direct customer interaction, experiential learning, and the risk of planning without action. The conversation also touches on the nuances of product strategy, the evolution of the product management field, and fostering a collaborative team environment across departments to ensure alignment and success.

Key Takeaways:

• Product discovery is about separating good and bad ideas and de-risking ideas through validation.
• A company's unfair advantage lies in the speed of learning and adaptation.
• AI will likely serve as an empowerment tool for product managers rather than a replacement.
• Fostering a collaborative and accountable team culture is crucial for success.
• Merging roles and building team spirit across departments can lead to better product management.
• Continuous learning and skill development are essential for aspiring product professionals and startup founders.

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

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• Twitter

Send us Fan Mail

I had the pleasure of speaking with Kjael Skaalerud, seasoned sales executive, investor, and President of Skaling Ventures. He has found success in acquiring and growing micro SaaS companies. 

Kjael's contrarian approach focuses on small, profitable, and enduring businesses rather than chasing larger, venture-backed companies that often prioritize growth over profitability.

Kjael shares his insights on why micro SaaS companies can be just as safe and stable as their larger counterparts, despite conventional wisdom suggesting otherwise. With lower valuations and less competition from institutional players, these businesses present a unique opportunity for investors like Kjael.

We dive into his first acquisition, a vertical niche SaaS for photographers and creative professionals that had been profitable for years and boasted impressive retention rates - a clear indication of the product's usefulness and the founder's deep understanding of their target market.

Key Takeaways:

1. Micro SaaS companies can be just as safe and stable as larger businesses, offering lower valuations and less competition from institutional players.
2. Founder-product fit is crucial, as founders solving their own problems often create useful products with great retention.
3. Founder burnout can be a buying signal, indicating a solid business with a founder ready to move on.
4. The first 90 days post-acquisition should focus on visibility, documentation, transition, and validating diligence assumptions before pursuing growth.
5. Building transparently and maintaining open communication with users post-acquisition helps preserve the human element and avoid the pitfall of going silent.
6. Simplicity equals mastery - if it takes a complex explanation to justify an acquisition, you probably don't fully understand the business.
7. Establishing reasonable incremental growth goals based on baseline performance (systems over goals) is more effective than setting arbitrary targets.
8. Fostering a culture of care and respect enables honest feedback and allows teams to move faster through a shared commitment to truth-seeking.

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Brandi Susewitz, the founder and CEO of Reseat, a groundbreaking marketplace that aims to solve the pressing issue of office furniture waste. Brandi's journey from industry expert to tech entrepreneur is a testament to her passion for sustainability and her commitment to driving positive change.

After being laid off during the pandemic, Brandi recognized two key problems plaguing the office furniture industry: the lack of a plan for existing furniture when companies move or renovate, and the staggering statistic that 98% of all contract furniture ends up in landfills, with less than 2% being properly recycled or given a second life.

This realization sparked the idea for Reseat, a platform that connects companies with excess furniture to those in need, fostering a circular economy and reducing waste. As Brandi eloquently stated, "I really believe with all of my heart and soul that reuse is the future. It's the only way to really save this planet."

Building Reseat from the ground up was no easy feat, but Brandi's determination and industry expertise paved the way. By leveraging technology and forging strategic partnerships, Reseat has become a driving force in the circular economy, enabling companies to track their carbon emissions and make informed decisions about their furniture assets.

Brandi's journey from industry expert to tech entrepreneur is a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to sustainability. As she navigates the challenges of scaling Reseat, her vision for the future is clear: a world where every piece of furniture has a unique identifier, enabling companies to track their assets and make informed decisions about their environmental impact.

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of Reseat's business model, the role of technology and partnerships in enabling a circular economy, and Brandi's insights on the future of sustainable office furniture solutions.

Key Takeaways:

• Addressing Office Furniture Waste: Reseat tackles the critical issue of office furniture waste, providing a platform for companies to repurpose excess furniture and reduce their environmental impact.
• Enabling a Circular Economy: By connecting buyers and sellers, Reseat fosters a circular economy, giving furniture a second life and reducing the strain on landfills.
• The Power of Technology: Leveraging technology and partnerships, Reseat enables companies to track their carbon emissions and make informed decisions about their furniture assets.
• Brandi's Entrepreneurial Journey: From industry expert to tech entrepreneur, Brandi's story is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and a commitment to driving positive change.
• Envisioning a Sustainable Future: Brandi's dream of a world where every piece of furniture has a unique identifier highlights the potential for technology to revolutionize sustainable practices.

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, I had the opportunity to speak with Matt Wolach, a seasoned SaaS sales coachand entrepreneur. With roles as CEO of ToroWave and Chief Revenue Officer at RingBot, alongside his B2B sales coaching at Xsellus, Matt brings a wealth of experience in dramatically scaling SaaS businesses. His insights into shortening sales cycles are critical for any SaaS company looking to accelerate growth.

Matt shared his journey from a hospitality management background to becoming a SaaS sales expert, highlighting the pivot points that led him to discover and refine his sales strategies. His DEAL process, centered around understanding customer pain points rather than pushing product features, will help you improve your close rate and shorten your sales cycle. 

We cover: 

• Understanding Customer Pain Points
• Mastering Discovery Calls
• Creating Urgency
• AI and Personalized Communication
• Fostering Cross-department Collaboration
• Building a Strong Brand
• Matt's D.E.A.L. Process
  
  

Tune in for a comprehensive guide on drastically improving your SaaS sales strategies.

Where to find Matt:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattwolach/ 
• Website: https://mattwolach.com/scale-time
• ToroWave: http://www.torowave.com/
• Matt's podcast: Scale Your SaaS
• RingBot (text widget): https://www.ringbot.io/

Where to find Michel:

• Newsletter: https://www.stunandawe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheljgagnon/
• X: https://twitter.com/michelgagnon

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Send us Fan Mail

I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Luis Valente, the CEO and co-founder of iLoF, for an enlightening conversation about his journey in the deep tech world and the pioneering work iLoF is doing in personalized medicine. Luis, who has been honored in the Forbes 30 under 30 list, shared the story behind iLoF, a company at the forefront of using AI to transform our approach to treating complex diseases.

During our chat, Luis opened up about the passion driving him and his team to tackle some of the healthcare sector's most pressing challenges. He detailed how iLoF is making it easier and faster for pharmaceutical companies and researchers to develop personalized medicines, ultimately aiming to deliver more effective treatments to patients. Luis didn't shy away from discussing the hurdles they've faced, including sourcing the right talent, navigating unforeseen challenges, and the ongoing quest for funding.

We also delved into some of the technical and strategic aspects of iLoF's work, from their approach to personalized medicine and data handling to their innovative strategies for patient selection in clinical trials. Luis even shared insights into the startup's business model and their 'foot in the door' strategy, which has been pivotal in navigating the complex regulatory landscape of the healthcare industry.

Tune into this episode of Growth Leap to hear our deep dive into the story of iLoF and Luis Valente's entrepreneurial journey, and learn about the exciting potential of AI in revolutionizing personalized medicine.

Where to find Luis:

• LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/luisvalente28
• Website: https://ilof.tech/

Where to find Michel:

• Newsletter: https://www.stunandawe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheljgagnon/
• X: https://twitter.com/michelgagnon

Support the show

• Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here.
• You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com
• Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course
• For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email [email protected].
• Support the show on Patreon

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter