Managed Chaos Podcast

Most companies treat their Customer Advisory Board like a high-end dinner party or a one-way press tour. If you spend your entire CAB talking at your customers, you are missing the single greatest opportunity to stress test your GTM strategy.

In this episode, Katrina Purcell and Guest in Residence Glenn Perera from Perera Insights break down how to move past the razzle dazzle and turn your CAB into a strategic growth engine.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Razzle Dazzle Trap: Why CABs fail

04:15 Selection Strategy: Finding your visionaries and skeptics

09:30 Virtual vs In-Person: The magic number for engagement

10:00 The Rabbit Hole Rule: Practical tactics for meeting control

14:00 The N-Customer Rule: Radical prioritization of feedback

15:00 Action and Accountability: Closing the loop with clients

🎙️ ABOUT THE GUEST Glenn Perera is the founder of Perera Insights and a veteran in customer intelligence. He specializes in turning messy, raw customer data into clear, actionable business strategies. He helps founders move beyond gut feelings to build products that customers actually need.

Connect with Glenn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennperera/ Perera Insights: https://pererainsights.com/

🚀 ABOUT MANAGED CHAOS

Managed Chaos is the podcast for startup founders, COOs, and leaders who are tired of the fluff. We give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes to get to work. Hosted by Katrina Purcell.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US

Website: www.themanagedchaospodcast.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/managedchaospodcast

✨ Special Offer from Pobl.io

Outsourcing your US tech talent should not be hard. With pobl.io you will get high-quality teams on demand and enjoy huge cost savings for your business. Try it now at pobl.io. Mention the amazing Managed Chaos when you email us and get a free market data report.

📧 Contact: [email protected]

Listen and Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review. It helps us reach more founders and leaders looking to manage the chaos of growth.

You don’t have a business if you don’t have a customer. Yet, so many founders fall into the trap of being "vision-led" rather than listening to the people actually paying the bills.

In the Season 3 premiere of Managed Chaos, hosts Katrina Purcell and Rachel Anderson kick off a special four-part arc on Customer Intelligence. We are joined by our Guest in Residence, Glenn Perera (Pereira Insights), an expert in turning raw, chaotic customer data into clear, actionable strategy.

If you are drowning in support tickets, conflicting feature requests, or vague survey data, this episode provides the framework you need to clear the noise.

In this episode, we cover:

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  The "Buyer vs. User" Trap: Why the person signing the contract often gives you the wrong feedback—and who you should be listening to instead.

  
  

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  The VOC Framework: How to use your company’s Mission, Vision, and Values to filter feedback and decide what actually gets built.

  
  

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  Radical Prioritization: A workshop technique to force your team (and customers) to cut their wish lists by 30% or more.

  
  

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  Why Churn is Too Late: Why looking at churn data is looking in the rearview mirror, and how to spot issues before they leave.

  
  

Memorable Quote:"There always comes a time where your customers know your product and the problem better than you." — Glenn Perera

Links & Resources:

• 🎙️ ABOUT THE GUEST: Glenn Perera is the founder of Perera Insights and a veteran in customer intelligence. He specializes in turning messy, raw customer data into clear, actionable business strategies. He helps founders move beyond "gut feelings" to build products that customers actually need.Connect with Glenn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennperera/Perera Insights: https://pererainsights.com/🚀 ABOUT MANAGED CHAOS: Managed Chaos is the podcast for startup founders, COOs, and leaders who are tired of the fluff. We give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes to get to work. Hosted by Katrina Purcell and Rachel Brenke.🔗 CONNECT WITH US:Website: www.themanagedchaospodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/managedchaospodcast

Loved this episode?Hit the "Follow" button so you don't miss Part 2 of our Customer Intelligence Arc, where we break down how to run a Customer Advisory Board without wasting everyone's time.

We’ve officially entered circle back season,  that magical time of year when calendars are full, inboxes are louder than ever, and everyone is mentally halfway into next year already.

In this special end-of-year episode, Katrina and Rachel reflect on wrapping up 2025, share a few laughs about December chaos, and pull back the curtain on what’s coming next for the Managed Chaos Podcast.

Season 3 officially launches January 21, 2026, sticking with the same Wednesday cadence and 15-minute, jam-packed episode, just with some fresh twists and new voices.

Whether you’re closing out the year strong or already manifesting your 2026 plans, this episode is equal parts reflection, humor, and momentum to help you move forward with intention.

As always, we give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.

🔗 Connect with Katrina Purcell:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/

🎧 Subscribe for Season 3 updates, guest announcements, and new formatscoming in 2026.

What a year. In this episode of the Managed Chaos Podcast, Rachel and Katrina revisit the predictions they made at the start of 2025 and break down what actually happened, what surprised them, and what still feels unresolved.

From the rapid (and chaotic) evolution of AI to the rise of seamless customer experiences, micromarkets, and the growing importance of authentic storytelling, this conversation is an honest, thoughtful reflection on how business trends really played out. They unpack where expectations met reality, where things moved slower than anticipated, and why the human element matters more than ever as technology accelerates.

If you’re a founder, operator, or leader trying to make sense of an unpredictable business landscape, this episode offersclarity, humor, and perspective to help you head into the next year with intention.

As always, we give you the startup businessrundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.

🎧 HostsRachel AndersonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-anderson-human-centric-leader/Katrina PurcellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/ 🌐 Podcast Websitehttps://themanagedchaospodcast.com✨ Special Offer from Pobl.io Outsourcing US tech talent shouldn’t be a challenge. With pobl.io You’ll get high-quality teams on demand and enjoy huge cost savings for your business. Try it now at pobl.io. Mention the amazing Managed Chaos when you email us and get a free market data report. 📧 Contact: [email protected]

In this episode of the Managed Chaos Podcast, Katrina sits down with Clara Ma, Founder and CEO of Ask a Chief of Staff, to unpack the evolving and often misunderstood role of the Chief of Staff.Clara shares her journey from Chief of Staff to accidental founder, highlighting the adaptability, resilience, and chaos management required to build both a business and a thriving professional community. Together, they explore how Chiefs of Staff can better support executives, navigate ambiguity, and use community intelligence to grow stronger in their roles.This episode is a must-listen for Chiefs of Staff, founders, operators, and leaders navigating growth, complexity, and change.🔗 Connect with Clara & Ask a Chief of StaffClara Ma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claramaAsk a Chief of Staff Newsletter: https://askachiefofstaff.substack.com/Ask a Chief of Staff Website: https://www.askachiefofstaff.comAsk a Chief of Staff Community: https://ask-a-cos.notion.site/Introducing-The-Ask-a-Chief-of-Staff-Community-8b093f5af6134b6c9267e3c2804a87ecAs always, we give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.✨ Special Offer from Pobl.io Outsourcing US tech talent shouldn’t be a challenge. With pobl.io You’ll get high-quality teams on demand and enjoy huge cost savings for your business. Try it now at pobl.io. Mention the amazing Managed Chaos when you email us and get a free market data report. 📧 Contact: [email protected]

Starting a business is no small feat, and the first 12 months can make or break your momentum. In this episode, Katrina Purcell and Rachel Anderson dive deep into the critical milestones every startup should aim for: validation, customer engagement, building a solid foundation, and knowing when (and how) to scale.They unpack the importance of documenting processes, hiring intentionally, maintaining a strong support network, and staying grounded in your “why.” You’ll also hear practical insights on self-care, tracking meaningful metrics, and celebrating small (but mighty!) wins along the way.If you're navigating year one or supporting someone, this conversation is packed with real talk, encouragement, and clarity to keep you moving forward.✨ Connect with Rachel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-anderson-human-centric-leader/✨ Connect with Katrina:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/🌐 Podcast Website: themanagedchaospodcast.com🎧 As always, we give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.✨ Special Offer from Pobl.io Outsourcing US tech talent shouldn’t be a challenge. With pobl.io, you’ll get high-quality teams on demand and enjoy huge cost savings for your business. Try it now at pobl.io. Mention 'Managed Chaos' when you email us and receive a complimentary market data report. 📧 Contact: [email protected].

Can startups really give back before they “make it”?

Spoiler: YES, and it might just be one of the smartest competitive advantages you have.

In this episode of the Managed Chaos Podcast, Rachel and Katrina break down why social responsibility isn’t just a feel-good move, it attracts talent, builds customer trust, strengthens culture, and helps your brand stand out in a crowded market.

You’ll learn:

✅ Why “giving back” isn’t only about money

✅ Simple, realistic ways early-stage startups can make an impact

✅ How brands like TOMS, Bombas, and Little Words Project leverage purpose for growth

✅ How to measure impact and weave it into your company culture

✅ Why you don’t have to wait to be big to make a differenceWhether you’re bootstrapped, pre-seed, or just getting your idea off the ground, this episode will show you how purpose and profit can grow together.

⭐ Don’t forget to subscribe and drop a comment, tell us what topics you want for 2026!

As always, we give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.

Connect with Katrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/

Connect with Rachel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-anderson-human-centric-leader/Learn more about the podcast: https://themanagedchaospodcast.com/

✨ Special Offer from Pobl.io Outsourcing US tech talent shouldn’t be a challenge. With pobl.io, you’ll get high-quality teams on demand and enjoy huge cost savings for your business. Try it now at pobl.io. Mention 'Managed Chaos' when you email us and receive a complimentary market data report.

📧 Contact: [email protected].

In this episode of the Managed Chaos Podcast, Rachel Anderson sits down with Nicole Cuervo, Founder and CEO of Spring Rose, an adaptive apparel company reshaping how women with limited mobility experience comfort, confidence, and dignity.Nicole shares the deeply personal story that inspired Spring Rose, rooted in her grandmother’s struggle with chronic pain. She walks us through the realities of building a mission-driven brand, how she uses customer feedback to shape every product decision, and the balancing act of honoring purpose while still running a sustainable business.If you’re a founder, product builder, or anyone who cares about human-centered design, this conversation is packed with insight and heart. ✨ Tune in to learn:• Why adaptive apparel needs to be built with customers, not just for them• How Spring Rose gathers deep, meaningful user insights• The surprising tension between mission and margin• What every early-stage founder should prioritize• Why resilience (and a little ignorance!) might be an entrepreneur’s strongest assetLinks & Resources:Spring Rose Website: https://www.springrose.co/pages/about-usSpring Rose on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/springrose.co/Spring Rose on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/springrose.coConnect with us:Managed Chaos Website: https://www.themanagedchaospodcast.com/Rachel Anderson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-anderson-human-centric-leader/Katrina Purcell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/As always, we give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.✨ Special Offer from Pobl.io Outsourcing US tech talent shouldn’t be a challenge. With pobl.io, you’ll get high-quality teams on demand and enjoy huge cost savings for your business. Try it now at pobl.io. Mention 'Managed Chaos' when you email us and receive a complimentary market data report. 📧 Contact: [email protected].

This week, Katrina Purcell sits down with Adriana Carrig, founder and CEO of Little Words Project, to talk about what it really takes to grow a nationally loved brand, while keeping your sanity intact.

From navigating warehouse moves and personnel changes to balancing motherhood, loss, and leadership, Adriana opens up about the real chaos behind the scenes.

They dive into:

• The wild ride of scaling Little Words Project over 12 years

• What it means to stay self-funded and creatively in control

• Building community through kindness and connection

• Managing chaos as a founder, mom, and partner

• The story behind those iconic bracelets (and a few Taylor Swift moments!)

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a mission-driven brand while keeping your feet on the ground, this episode will hit home.

🎧 Tune in for an honest, inspiring, and downright human conversation about resilience, creativity, and the beautiful mess of entrepreneurship.

👇 Watch now and let us know in the comments, what’s your Little Words Project word right now?

As always, we give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.

🌐 Learn more:

• Little Words Project: https://www.littlewordsproject.com/

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-words-project/

Pricing is one of the trickiest parts of running a business. Whether you’re a solopreneur trying not to undercharge, or a growing company trying to stay competitive, pricing goes far beyond numbers, it’s strategy, perception, and customer psychology.

In this episode of Managed Chaos, Katrina and Rachel tackle the art (and science) of pricing. They dig into how to price your products or services strategically, when to adjust, and why pricing is a living, evolving strategy that should grow with your business.

You’ll learn:

• The fundamentals of pricing for solopreneurs and startups

• How to balance cost, value, and customer perception

• What big brands can teach us about flexible pricing

• Why listening to your customers helps you find your “sweet spot”

As always, we give you the startup business rundown in less time than it takes for you to get to work.

👥 Connect with us:

Rachel Anderson — https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelandersonpivot/

Katrina Purcell — https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-purcell/

🌐 Visit us at www.managedchaospod.com

#StartupPodcast #PricingStrategy #EntrepreneurTips #SmallBusiness #ManagedChaosPodcast #Solopreneurs #BusinessStrategy #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth #Leadership

✨ Special Offer from Pobl.io Outsourcing US tech talent shouldn’t be a challenge. With pobl.io, you’ll get high-quality teams on demand and enjoy huge cost savings for your business. Try it now at pobl.io. Mention 'Managed Chaos' when you email us and receive a complimentary market data report. 📧 Contact: [email protected]