"Tech Finance" with Sasha Orloff: B2B Fintech | AI | Finance Tech

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Jody Padar, the Radical CPA, 3x author, to discuss the incentive misalignment in accounting firms, and how radical pricing can solve it. Jody shares her insights on the evolving landscape of accounting, discussing the need for firms to adapt to new technologies, embrace value-based pricing, and shift from traditional hourly billing models. She emphasizes the importance of redefining the accountant-client relationship in the digital age, advocating for a more advisory-focused approach. Jody also addresses the challenges facing the accounting profession, including talent shortages and the impact of automation, while offering her vision for the future of accounting firms. -- 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co Get Turpentine Finance directly in your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://turpentine-finance.beehiiv.com/ and receive key takeaways from each episode RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast -- LINKS: Radical Pricing by Jody Padar: https://cpatrendlines.com/shop/jp24pri-jody-padar-radical-pricing-how-to-optimize-profits-delight-clients-and-build-a-top-value-firm-jp24pri/ Connect with Jody on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jody-padar-18a9711 -- SPONSORS: 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. 🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Episode preview (00:01:05) Introduction to Turpentine Finance Podcast (00:01:31) Meet Jody: The Radical CPA (00:03:06) The disconnect in accounting firms (00:05:53) Jody's journey into accounting (00:07:23) Innovating in a firm with technology and cloud solutions (00:12:58) Challenges in changing the pricing model (00:18:04) The role of automation in accounting (00:24:32) Innovative constraints in small firms (00:25:33) Realizing pricing as the core problem (00:27:20) Transitioning to value-based pricing (00:36:01) The role of AI and technology in accounting (00:37:41) The future of bookkeeping firms (00:39:56) Reimagining the accounting profession (00:43:04) Strengthening accountant-client relationships (00:47:39) Training the next generation of accountants (00:49:40) Conclusion and final thoughts

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Seema Amble, Partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Seema shares her research on the transformation of the CFO’s office, and how generative AI is powering financial teams. She discusses how AI can empower CFOs and finance teams to focus on strategic rather manual tasks, increasing client communication through automation, the impact of AI on valuations in service businesses such as law and accounting, and the progression from “service as a software” vs “software as a service”. Seema also discusses investing cycles, and how AI adoption in enterprise might follow the trajectory of other technologies, beginning with consumer adoption first. -- 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co Get Turpentine Finance directly in your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://turpentine-finance.beehiiv.com/ and receive key takeaways from each episode RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 -- SPONSORS: NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. COMMANDBAR 🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz BABBEL 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg -- LINKS: The CFO in Crisis: https://a16z.com/the-cfo-in-crisis-mode-modern-times-call-for-new-tools/ Death, Taxes, and Accounting: https://a16z.com/generative-ai-in-accounting/ X/SOCIAL @seema_amble (Seema) @sashaorloff (Sasha) TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Introduction to Turpentine Finance Podcast (00:01:44) Discussing the CFO in Crisis Mode article (00:02:10) Challenges faced by CFOs with legacy software (00:06:35) The pyramid graph of finance team tasks and market insights (00:15:10) Generative AI's impact on finance (00:16:24) Emerging trends and changes in the market (00:20:14) The rise of bundled solutions in finance (00:22:49) Death, taxes, and AI: Transforming accounting (00:24:33) The excitement of AI in accounting (00:26:42) Challenges and opportunities in AI adoption (00:29:29) Incentive alignment and talent development in service businesses (00:32:36) The future of services as software (00:34:14) AI's impact on business models and valuation (00:38:17) Andreessen Horowitz's AI investment strategy (00:40:07) Future trends and predictions in AI (00:44:12) Engaging with Andreessen Horowitz (00:45:18) Conclusion and call to action

In this episode of Turpentine Finance, Sasha sits down with Dan Fletcher, CFO of Planful. They discuss how CFOs can build trust with the CEO and the board, balancing growth and profitability across different company stages, the nuances of working with VC versus PE investors, and more. Dan also shares his perspective of working at Planful, building infrastructure for CFOs. -- 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co Get Turpentine Finance directly in your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://turpentine-finance.beehiiv.com/ and receive key takeaways from each episode -- RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 -- SPONSORS: NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. COMMANDBAR 🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz BABBEL 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg -- LINKS: https://planful.com/ X/SOCIAL: Dan Fletcher on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danfletchersf/ @sashaorloff (Sasha's X) TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) The best advice for growth and profitability (02:13) Meet Dan Fletcher: Navigating CFO challenges (02:57) Stakeholder management for CFOs (04:22) Building trust with the CEO (08:30) Growth vs. profitability: A balanced approach (17:28) Navigating M&A discussions (20:43) Preparing for board meetings (25:08) Common questions CFOs face (25:45) The importance of knowing your business (26:24) The role of the CFO in board meetings (27:22) Differences between venture-backed and private equity-backed boards (29:00) Career path to CFO: CPA vs. corporate finance (33:53) Essential skills for aspiring CFOs (35:04) The role of the controller in strategic finance (37:07) Planful's success and CFO insights (43:02) Future of AI in financial planning (45:28) Conclusion and final thoughts

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Michelle Valentine, Co-founder and CEO of Anrok, the tax compliance infrastructure for the internet economy. They discuss the complexities of sales tax in the digital age, the historical context, regulatory changes, and challenges faced by startups operating online. Michelle shares her journey from VC at Index Ventures to founding Anorak and provides valuable advice for finance leaders and founders on navigating sales tax issues effectively. -- 🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co Get Turpentine Finance directly in your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://turpentine-finance.beehiiv.com/ and receive key takeaways from each episode RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 -- SPONSORS: NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. COMMANDBAR 🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz BABBEL 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg -- LINKS: https://www.anrok.com/ X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @_vltn (Michelle) TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode preview (01:12) The complexity of sales tax in the digital age (03:40) The evolution of sales tax laws (05:41) The impact of remote work and Supreme Court rulings (07:20) Local vs. state tax compliance (10:47) How Anrok solves sales tax issues (12:25) The importance of early sales tax compliance (15:13) Anrok's approach to sales tax management (18:30) Address data quality and sales tax (24:06) Common misconceptions about tax responsibility (26:45) From venture capitalist to founder (28:01) Building a strong founding team (32:57) The why now for Anrok (35:41) Advice for founders and finance teams (39:49) The role of accounting firms and fractional CFOs (42:47) Anrok's vision and future

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Riya Grover, CEO and Cofounder of Sequence, to discuss the evolving landscape of B2B revenue models and pricing strategies. They dive deep into the challenges modern software companies face in managing complex hybrid pricing models and the increasing adoption of usage and hybrid-based pricing. Riya also shares Sequence's approach to unifying the quote-to-cash process, bridging the gap between sales and finance teams, the limitations of traditional revenue management tools, and much more. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co Get Turpentine Finance directly in your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://turpentine-finance.beehiiv.com/ and receive key takeaways from each episode -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 -- SPONSORS: NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. COMMANDBAR 🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz BABBEL 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg -- LINKS: https://www.sequencehq.com X/SOCIAL @sashaorloff (Sasha) @Riya_78 (Riya) TIMESTAMPS (00:00:00) Introduction to revenue management challenges (00:02:07) Evolution of revenue models (00:04:23) Hybrid pricing and usage-based models (00:05:32) Complexities in revenue management (00:06:46) Modern sales and finance operations (00:09:38) Driving factors behind revenue model changes (00:15:12) Software evolution and challenges (00:36:57) Sequence: simplifying quote to revenue (00:40:42) Closing thoughts and advice for finance teams

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Nadia Asoyan, former CFO of Strike, Robinhood, and Controller at Square. Nadia shares her journey from EY to Silicon Valley's top fintech rocketships, offering invaluable insights on transitioning from accounting to CFO positions. She discusses the challenges of IPO readiness, the evolution of financial processes in fast-growth startups, and the delicate balance between growth and profitability. Nadia also provides candid advice for aspiring CFOs, emphasizing the importance of cross-functional partnerships and data literacy. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co Get Turpentine Finance directly in your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://turpentine-finance.beehiiv.com/ and receive key takeaways from each episode -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 -- SPONSORS: NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. COMMANDBAR 🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz BABBEL 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg -- LINKS: Strike: https://strike.me/ X/SOCIAL @sashaorloff @NadiaAsoyan TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction (01:06) Nadia’s Accounting Origins (04:17) Big Four Lessons (07:38) Square's Early Days (09:03) The Audit to In-House Transition (11:22) IPO Readiness at Square (17:05) Building Processes at Robinhood (18:21) Sponsors: Netsuite | CommandBar (21:00) Attracting Founders (24:30) Expanding Responsibilities (28:18) Evolving Processes (28:42) Sponsors: Babbel | Attio (32:33) Advice for Accounting Professionals (35:05) Board Management and Fundraising (42:00) Board Meetings (45:20) Growth vs. Profitability (48:32) Counterintuitive Advice (50:00) Misconceptions and Unsolved Problems (54:41) Square IPO Challenges (59:48) Complexity and Automation (1:04:10) Free Products and Hyper Growth (1:07:01) Pricing Models (1:10:22) Budget Setting (1:14:20 ) Wrap

In this episode, Tomer London, co-founder and Chief Product Officer at Gusto, shares insights into aligning product and finance teams for responsible growth. He dives deep into the frameworks and practices Gusto employed to make trade-offs between core products, expansion opportunities, and moonshot ideas - all while maintaining a relentless focus on customer needs and healthy unit economics. Tomer discusses Gusto's thoughtful, iterative approach to product development, avoiding the pitfalls of pursuing growth at all costs. He provides a candid look into Gusto's fundraising philosophy and managing the product-finance relationship through the company's evolution from startup to industry leader. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co Get Turpentine Finance directly in your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter at https://turpentine-finance.beehiiv.com/ and receive key takeaways from each episode -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- SPONSORS: ATTIO 📊 Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. COMMANDBAR 🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz BABBEL 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg LINKS: gusto.com X/SOCIAL @sashaorloff @tomerlondon TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:25) Landing on Payroll (03:46) Payroll as a Wedge (05:20:)The Importance of Emotional Pain Points (07:23) Dream Big, Make it Real (13:06) The Three Horizons Framework (15:07) The Importance of Product & Finance Alignment (17:08) Sponsor: NetSuite | Attio (21:00) Milestones and Accountability (24:00) Killing Products (28:30) Staying Focused Amidst Competition (30:39) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel (34:00) Fundraising Strategy (36:46) Evolving Thinking on Profitability (40:25) The Power of Customer Connection (42:00) The Future of Gusto (43:12) Wrap

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Jim Cook, dubbed the CFO Whisperer, after 30 years in Silicon Valley as CFO at Netflix, Intuit, and Mozilla. Jim shares CFO hiring mistakes and the misunderstandings most board members and investors have about the CFO role, why being precise is the finance professional’s Achilles heel, tactical advice for impactful communication in board meetings, and more. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- SPONSORS: ATTIO 📊 Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. BEEHIIV 🐝 Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. Go to https://beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg LINKS: Jim's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cookflix Benchboard: https://www.benchboard.com/ X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @cookflix (Jim) TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Preview and Intro (03:19) Early lessons from Intuit (05:28) Evolution of finance teams (09:06) Customer-centric finance (11:14) Effective stakeholder management (12:47) Strategic decision making in finance (15:39) Board meetings preparation (19:04) Sponsor: Netsuite | Attio (21:07) Meaningful discussions on board meetings (24:07) How to be a successful CEO (31:38) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Babbel (34:11) Early days of Netflix (37:05) Monetization strategies (44:14) Hiring the right CFO (47:26) Interview question for a CFO candidate (49:35) Introducing BenchBoard (53:38) Common skills and advice (57:19) Wrap

OpenAI Controller Sowmya Ranganathan sits with Sasha Orloff to share accounting insights from her experience at Square, Rippling, and OpenAI. She discusses automation and using AI in accounting, how difficult software motivated her to make the move to Controller at Rippling, and how she’s streamlining the accounting workflow at OpenAI, where she is currently Controller. Sowmya also explains how AI is making accounting easier and why future accounting teams may be small and broadly skilled. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co --- SPONSORS: ATTIO 📊 Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. BEEHIIV 🐝 Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. Go to https://beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months BRAVE 🎯Get first-party targeting with Brave’s private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “Turpentine” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- X/SOCIAL: https://twitter.com/sashaorloff (Sasha) https://twitter.com/heysowmya (Sowmya) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview and Intro (02:51) Soumya's Journey: From Square to Rippling (03:14) Challenges and Learnings in Public Accounting (07:30) Automation in Accounting: A Necessity (10:02) Joining Rippling: Building from the Ground Up (11:47) Balancing Controls and Growth in Startups (14:52) Sponsor: NetSuite | Attio (16:52) Putting On the Auditor's Hat (18:24) What If There's No Buy-in from Management? (21:02) Stepping into OpenAI and Embracing AI in Accounting (24:12) Transforming Accounting with ChatGPT (25:35) Real-World Applications and Success Stories (26:29) Future of AI in Accounting (29:44) OpenAI's Accounting Team and Processes (30:02) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Brave (33:12) Innovative Tools and Systems (37:36) Advice for Future Accountants (45:30) Addressing Fear of AI in Accounting (47:41) Wrap

In this conversation, Steve Love, a seasoned CFO with over $1 billion raised from VCs and $2 billion in M&A transaction experience, pulls back the curtain on high-stakes M&A. Love shares his insights from overseeing complex acquisitions like Heap's purchase of a complementary "session replay" company and Heap's eventual sale to ContentSquare. He candidly discusses navigating challenges, aligning stakeholders, prepping for diligence, and making strategic M&A decisions as a CFO. Whether you're a CFO, finance professional or simply M&A-curious, Love's tactics for evaluating targets, modeling forecasts, negotiating terms, and executing integrations provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to architect successful transactions. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 SPONSORS: 📊 Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine NETSUITE 📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks. BEEHIIV 🐝 Power your newsletter with Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months BRAVE 🎯Get first-party targeting with Brave’s private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “Turpentine” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- LINKS: https://sift.com/ X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @SteveLoveCFO (Steve) TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Intro and preview (00:01:24) Steve Love's impressive background (00:02:39) Diving into M&A: When and why to acquire (00:03:34) Case study: Heap's product acquisition (00:05:17) Evaluating market players and integration challenges (00:13:29) Integration and transition best practices (00:17:43) Sponsor: NetSuite | Attio (00:20:21) The biggest surprise after acquisition (00:22:33) The first thing CFOs do after signing (00:32:29) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Brave (00:33:02) Negotiating severance packages (00:37:34) Executing a sell-side transaction (00:37:55) Handling market checks and bankers (00:49:52) Differences between private and public company sales (01:02:13) Biggest misconceptions about a CFO's role (01:03:03) Wrap

How do you navigate the tide turn when your competitor collapses during one of the biggest banking crises in recent history? In this conversation, Sasha Orloff sits down with Immad Akhund, founder and CEO of Mercury*. Immad pulls back the curtain on the chaos and critical decisions made when Silicon Valley Bank fell. From mobilizing an all-hands effort to rapidly onboard new customers to developing new product features virtually overnight to instill confidence, Immad provides an unvarnished look at crisis management and steadfast leadership during turbulent times. He also shares insights on Mercury's customer-first approach to building, how rising interest rates transformed their business model, and how he thinks about investing in new product initiatives by allocating internal resources like venture investments. *Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj --- SPONSOR: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. Profiled this season: Databricks, Reddit, Twilio, Copart + more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0epyYBAxLeF0PsNagdDJAJ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/company-breakdowns/id1743119197 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- LINKS: https://mercury.com/ --- X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @Immad (Immad) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview (01:15) Intro (02:23) Immad’s Journey to founding Mercury and being a serial entrepreneur (02:37) Immad’s learnings after founding three startups (06:54) Learnings from being a YC partner and angel investor (08:54) What gets Immad excited about investing (10:17) Why Series A vs seed stage investing (12:18) Building the banking solution (13:49) The moment when Immad knew Mercury was the right thing (16:12) How interest rates affect Mercury (18:48) Silicon Valley Bank collapse and what was happening at Mercury (23:50) SVB failed, why is Mercury safe? (24:00) Mercury Vault’s inception and increasing FDIC insurance to 3 million (25:56) Would Immad do anything differently going back to the SVB collapse? (27:41) How Mercury’s team was able to remain calm and adapt (29:21) Launching new products within a startup: product innovation (31:12) Having a longterm mindset when launching new products (33:49) Thinking about product launches internally like they’re startups (36:37) Breadth vs depth in a market (40:30) Something about Mercury a lot of people don’t know today (43:50) Number one piece of advice for founders (44:26) Wrap

In this conversation, Sasha Orloff sits down with Steve McLaughlin, CEO and Managing Partner of FT Partners. Steve provides an insider’s look into the high-stakes world of capital raising and dealmaking for high-growth private companies. From being Goldman Sachs’ Former Head of Fintech to founding FT Partners, a global fintech investment firm, McLaughlin shares his strategies for crafting compelling narratives that unlock massive fundraising rounds - like the $33 billion valuation for Revolut and a $100 million plus raise for Sam Altman’s Worldcoin. They dive deep into storytelling, the importance of product over marketing spend, founder red flags, and much more. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- SPONSORS: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- LINKS: https://ftpartners.com/ X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @FTPartners (Steve) TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) The art of storytelling in high-growth company valuations (00:01:31) A capital whisperer's journey (00:02:26) Inside FTPartners: Shaping the fintech universe (00:04:33) The intricacies of capital raising and M&A (00:07:39) Crafting the perfect capital raise story (00:14:13) The complex world of investor networks (00:16:41) Maximizing value beyond valuation (00:19:05) A deep dive into successful storytelling and strategic selling (00:22:57) The philosophy of business growth and valuation (00:23:33) Understanding the founder's journey and ambitions (00:24:32) The role of investment bankers in raising capital (00:25:46) The importance of choosing the right banker (00:28:17) Revolut's success story: A case study (00:36:07) Strategic advice on growth vs. profitability (00:39:01) Reflecting on capital raising experiences and red flags (00:41:06) The evolution of FT Partners (00:46:12) Closing thoughts and acknowledgements

Ever wondered what the financial operations look like when you have billions in AUM at a top-tier VC firm? In this episode, Sasha sits down with Mark Allen, CFO at General Catalyst. Mark discusses the non-obvious complexities of managing billions in assets across hundreds of portfolio companies, from capital reserve strategies, geographical breakdowns, to reporting requirements. He shares candid insights on navigating intense moments like the Silicon Valley Bank collapse, tech innovations being adopted by VC firms, how being a fund’s CFO comprises two roles of being CFO of a fund and a firm, advice for CFOs coming to pitch at General Catalyst, and much more. This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- SPONSORS: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- LINKS: https://www.generalcatalyst.com/team/mark-allen X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @generalcatalyst TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview + Intro (02:37) Mark Allen’s Journey to Being CFO of General Catalyst (GC) (06:23) How the VC business model works (08:44) Power law and reserves (08:44) FP&A at a fund and capital reserve strategies (11:20) Investment mix / geographical jurisdictions (14:05) How GC maintains line of sight into their portfolio companies (14:51) Sponsor: Attio (17:04) Tools that Mark uses and revolutions in tools for CFOs (19:12) Using AI for DDQs (21:23) Inflection points in GC’s history (24:19) Transition from hundreds of millions to billions of dollars in AUM (26:01) Critical decision points for GC and Mark (30:14) Sponsor: Turpentine (30:58) Advice for CFOs on building trust with their leadership (33:03) The importance of relationships as a CFO (36:20) How General Catalyst’s work culture has changed after the pandemic (39:18) Biggest misconceptions about being CFO at VC fund (41:26) Advice for CFOs pitching to VCs (42:26) Wrap

Get an inside look at Runway - the visually stunning finance platform that's breaking conventions and captivating users with its approach to making finance fun again. In this interview, founder and CEO Siqi Chen shares the arduous 3-year journey of iterating on the product from its inception during a meeting with the a16z team, working alongside early design partners, and the key inflection points that transformed Runway into what it is today. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling, having the data from different company functions centralized and in communication with each other, and fostering a culture where work, and finance in particular, is genuinely fun. Whether you're in finance or appreciate great product design, this is a must-watch episode. This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- SPONSORS: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- LINKS MENTIONED: Runway Financial: https://runway.com/ Sandbox VR: https://sandboxvr.com/ X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @blader (Siqi) @runwayco (Runway) TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction to Runway and Siqi Chen (01:30) Background and Inspiration for Runway (08:25) Challenges and Pivot during COVID-19 (12:29) Raising Capital and Product Iteration (14:57) Sponsor: Attio (16:25) Balancing Feature Parity and Novelty (17:30) arly Design Partners and Customers (19:36) Building an Audience and Storytelling (23:01) Mission and Vision of Runway (26:13) Convincing Users to Leave Excel (38:05) Demo of Runway (41:45) Development and Design Process (42:49) Product Features and Future Plans (44:43) Company Culture and Team (46:45) Future of Runway

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Razzak Jallow, CFO at FloQast, to discuss the evolving role of the modern CFO as a strategic partner across the organization. They dive into how he builds trust with the CEO, his approach to fostering product innovation responsibly, and why he turned down a financing round that would have doubled FloQast's valuation. Razzak also offers advice for aspiring CFOs on evaluating their first CFO role, skills like "precision Q&A", and hiring great talent This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- SPONSORS: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- X/Twitter: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @floqast (Floqast) @turpentinemedia TIMESTAMPS: TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview (02:22) How Razzak would describe the role of CFO (02:55) Razzak’s superpowers: hiring and working with different people (04:28) Building trust with different colleagues across different functions and cultures (06:31) How to be the office of “how to” rather than “no” (08:47) Having an effective discussion when there isn’t a right answer (11:47) Changing the culture from being a no shop to a let’s be a partner shop (14:26) Precision Q&A (15:24) Sponsor: Attio (17:22) What is FloQast (19:34) Taking on the first CFO role and evaluating fit (21:45) Deciding not to raise at a higher valuation and why (25:20) Having a cash war chest (27:02) Balancing product innovation and financial discipline as CFO (30:00) The early milestones in a new product that unlock more capital (31:32) Getting alignment on what payback on a new product should be (38:16) Advice to future CFOs and an underrated skill people should work on more (41:39) Building trust with your CEO (45:27) Wrap

Ever wonder what it's like to get a call from Elon Musk, wanting to buy your company? In this episode, Sasha sits down with serial entrepreneur Chris Bakke to find out. Chris is the co-founder behind several successful startups, including Laskie, which was acquired by Elon Musk's X, and Interviewed, acquired by Indeed. Chris shares insights on: building a content-driven growth strategy as a founder that's led to his 200k+ follower base, navigating the M&A process and negotiating a deal directly with Musk, transitioning from founder to his current role in building X's job search platform, and much more. This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- SPONSORS: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- X/Twitter: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @chrisjbakke (Chris) @turpentinemedia TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Chris Bakke Intro (02:49) Laskie and what got Chris excited about it (04:03) Content as a growth strategy (07:29) How Chris found his content voice (12:50) What’s the next thing in content (19:32) Best practices as a founder to set up M&A as a future path (24:36) Getting Indeed as a partner, investor, and acquirer of Interviewed (26:51) Laskie’s M&A Story (29:13) How Chris ended up talking to Elon about Laskie and Twitter recruiting (35:11) What Chris would’ve done differently at Indeed (37:12) Common mistakes and misconceptions during the M&A process (45:00) Chris’ most memorable X post, not of his own (46:22) Wrap

In this episode, Sasha sits down with Sagar Sanghvi, Current Partner at Accel and former CFO at Instacart. They discuss how Sagar drove the change in financial culture at Instacart and adapted rapidly to Whole Food’s acquisition by Amazon, scaling Instacart during the COVID pandemic, the balance between growth at all costs and unit economics, Sagar’s transition from CFO at Instacart to being Partner at the venture firm Accel, and much more. This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- SPONSORS: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH - Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- LINKS: https://www.accel.com/people/sagar-sanghvi X/SOCIAL: @sashaorloff (Sasha) @spsanghvi4 (Sagar) @turpentinemedia CONTACT: [email protected] TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview and Intro (02:30) Sagar's time at Instacart (04:29) Training from Goldman and KKR (06:58) When to transition to unit economic focus instead of growth at all costs (08:31) The process of changing a financial culture at a company (10:57) Advice for CFOs in driving culture with a founder where financial discipline is not present yet (13:39) Sponsor: Attio (14:55) How do you bring colleagues from other functions into alignment (17:22) Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods and Instacart's internal dynamics (20:17) Signs that Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods was a positive infection for Instacart (21:43) Instacart's wartime and tactical parts of Sagar's job during wartimes (24:04) Size of Instacart's finance team (25:10) What Sagar would have done differently in response to the acquisition (27:54) Sagar's VP of Strategy transition to CFO at Instacart (30:13) Balancing growth versus profitability (36:27) Instacart during COVID and lockdown (40:41) Sagar's transition to Accel and VC (44:59) Advice for CFOs positioning themselves to VC (47:34) What gets Sagar excited about a deal? (49:58) Wrap

In the debut episode of Turpentine Finance, host Sasha Orloff sits down with Casey Woo, Founder of Operator's Guild, GP at Fog Ventures, and WeWork's former Global Head of Strategic Finance. They unpack the value of being a business-first CFO, the lessons learned from working in pressure-cooker settings like WeWork, how CEOs can evaluate CFOs (and vice versa), and frameworks for being a career 'specialist generalist'. This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- SPONSORS: Attio is the next generation of CRM. It’s powerful, flexible and easily configures to the unique way your startup runs, whatever your go-to-market motion. The next era deserves a better CRM. Join ElevenLabs, Replicate, Modal and more at https://bit.ly/attioturpentine --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple 📈 ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. --- LINKS: Operator's Guild: https://operators-guild.com/ Fog Ventures: https://www.fog.ventures/ Casey's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseywoo Casey's contact: [email protected] --- X/Twitter @sashaorloff (Sasha) @caseyswoo (Casey) @FogVentures (Fog) @turpentinemedia --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview (02:00) Life as a banker (04:06) Story following numbers or numbers following story (04:39)How banking prepared Casey for working in a startup's finance team (07:00) Deciding that working in a startup is a right fit (09:10)Hiring a CFO (11:20) Advice for bankers transitioning to operating roles (12:41) First things to accomplish when stepping into a role (14:05) Sponsor: Attio (14:52) Interview question to see if a founder takes finance seriously (16:16) Advice for CFOs to change the dynamic that finance has in the company (18:08)Casey's time at WeWork as CFO for Western US and Canada (22:00) Casey's experience being Global Head of Strategic Finance at WeWork (29:40 Advice for founders in dealing with different growth or recessive cycles (32:57) Probabilities (34:00) Time spent on fundraising vs supporting the founder as a CFO (35:26) Operator's Guild and Generalists (42:00) How can operators thrive in a transition role (47:28) The number one piece of advice Casey would give to CFOs (49:38) Wrap