The SaaS CFO

Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to have Roee Barak, founder, and CEO of Upward AI, as our guest. Roee, based in Tel Aviv, shares his fascinating career journey that took him from law school to the tech industry. With nearly a decade of experience in various business roles, including business development, sales, and marketing, Roee decided to launch his dream venture, Upward, to revolutionize AI-powered research and productivity tools.  Join us as we dive deep into Roee’s story, exploring the genesis of Upward and the innovative solutions it offers for high-stakes research in various industries. Roee provides a detailed walkthrough of how Upward helps users perform significant research, from defining objectives to gathering and synthesizing data, all the way to creating comprehensive reports and presentations. We also discuss Upward’s go-to-market strategy, initial success on Product Hunt, and its impressive growth to over 1,000 paying subscribers in its first year.  Lastly, Roee shares valuable insights on fundraising, team building, and the challenges of staying ahead in the fast-evolving AI landscape. Hear firsthand how Upward plans to transition from a single-user focus to a collaborative platform, aiming to bring substantial productivity gains to teams and enterprises. This episode is packed with lessons and inspiration for aspiring founders and SaaS enthusiasts. Don’t miss it!  Show Notes:   00:00 Need for a knowledge tool and productivity.  05:24 Content sourcing, research hub, notepad for outcomes.  06:56 Focused on end-user research tool before organizations.  11:33 Co-founders' AI journey: from skepticism to mainstream.  15:10 Key metric: New research projects from customers' usage.  16:46 Upward transitioning to collaborative research platform development.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/upword-raises-3-million-in-pre-seed-round  Roee Barak’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roee-barak-20882887/  Upword AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/upwordai/  Upword AI’s Website: https://www.upword.ai/  SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we have a fascinating discussion with Pujun Bhatnagar, the co-founder and CEO of Kintsugi. Pujun shares his journey from New Delhi to becoming a machine learning engineer at Facebook and eventually, a successful entrepreneur. We'll dive into Kintsugi's mission to simpujplify sales tax compliance using advanced technology, making it accessible for businesses globally.  Pujun talks about the company’s ambitious growth plans, aiming to reach $1 million, $5 million, and even $10 million in funding, and the significance of transparent conversations with investors. We'll explore how Kintsugi puts sales tax on autopilot for e-commerce and SaaS companies, the impact of regulatory changes from cases like South Dakota vs. Wayfair, and the fierce competition in the compliance space.  Additionally, Pujun is offering a special 15% discount for our listeners, so stick around to learn how you can benefit. Whether you're a startup or an established business, this episode is packed with invaluable insights on navigating the complex world of sales tax. Let's jump right in! 15% off using this link: Https://trykintsugi.com/benShow Notes:  00:00 Potential in untapped market through technological innovation.  04:13 Automate sales tax tracking for e-commerce businesses.  08:23 Government interaction handled for sales tax compliance.  11:05 Sales tax regulations shift, creating market opportunities.  17:02 Company headquartered in SF, expanding internationally, leveraging AI.  18:37 App quickly calculates sales tax liability from various platforms.  21:48 Providing latest sales tax news and advice.  25:22 Successfully partnered with VCs, expanded and adapted.  28:41 Investment strategy: long-term, ignore early valuation.  32:01 Focus on serving more customers globally, efficiently.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/kintsugi-raises-6-million-in-series-a  Pujun Bhatnagar’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pujun/  Kintsugi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pujun/  Kintsugi’s Website: https://trykintsugi.com/  SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we are thrilled to introduce Aurora Maggio, the CEO and co-founder of Zefi AI. Aurora's journey is fascinating and somewhat unconventional for a SaaS founder, beginning with a background in architecture and transitioning into the world of AI and software.  In our conversation, Aurora delves into the innovative solutions Zefi AI provides—aggregating and transforming qualitative customer interactions into actionable quantitative data for businesses. With a focus on reducing churn and prioritizing product roadmaps, Zefi AI targets a diverse range of industries, from digital to physical products.  Join us as we explore Zefi's journey from its inception in Italy, its early funding rounds, the importance of design partners, and Aurora's insights on scaling and prioritizing feature requests. Whether you're a SaaS founder or an enthusiast, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons and inspiration.  Tune in and learn how Zefi AI is revolutionizing customer insights and driving growth in the SaaS industry.  Show Notes:  00:00 Diverse customer base, digital products, future trend.  04:51 SaaS tools connect data, analyze customer feedback.  08:02 PLG approach, focus on inbound lead generation.  11:54 Initiated investor talks, pivoted product, closed contracts.  13:22 Reaching out to founders for mutual support.  16:50 Enhancing onboarding for scaling and customer retention.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/zefi-ai-raises-1-6-million-in-pre-seed-funding  Aurora Maggio’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aurora-maggio/  Zefi AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zefi-ai/  Zefi AI’s Website: https://www.zefi.ai/  SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome back Itzik Alvas, Co-founder and CEO of Entro Security. Itzik, a seasoned expert in cybersecurity with past roles at IDMO and Microsoft, is making his mark in the industry by addressing the critical need for securing non-human identities and secrets in the digital world. Itzik is our first returning guest, having previously discussed the initial stages of Entro Security, and we're excited to catch up on the company's progress and achievements. Since founding the company in 2022, Itzik, along with his Co-founder and CTO Adam Schliki, has been dedicated to pioneering the non-human identity and secret security vertical, focusing on service accounts, API keys, and programmatic access keys that are essential for application authentication and service access.  Under Itzik's leadership, Entro Security has experienced significant growth. The company, which started with just 20 employees, has now doubled its team size to 40. This headcount increase reflects their expansion in capabilities and market reach. Entro Security has attracted dozens of customers, including large enterprises and Fortune 100 companies, illustrating the high demand for their innovative solutions. Their dual headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Tel Aviv, Israel, strategically position them to cater to a diverse set of industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, and online travel. Itzik shares insights into the company's scaling journey, highlighting the importance of having a repetitive story and solving distinct problems to gain investor trust.  Entro Security's recent funding achievements are also noteworthy. With a successful Series A round raising $18 million, on top of an initial $6 million seed round, the total capital raised now stands at $24 million. This infusion of funds is set to further propel their growth, with plans to expand their team and enhance their product offerings. Itzik delves into the lessons learned from the Series A fundraising process, emphasizing the need for traction, customer validation, and strong metrics such as CAC and ARR. As the conversation unfolds, Itzik provides valuable advice for other founders navigating similar paths. Tune in to this engaging episode to learn more about the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, Entro Security's ambitious plans, and the key metrics driving their success.  Show Notes:  00:00 Background in cybersecurity, shifted from offense to defense.  04:13 Developers creating non-human identities without security oversight.  09:24 Sustainable business requires cost and metric improvement.  11:09 Find repetitive flow, acquire customers, tell investors.  15:35 Continued investment in non-human identity security.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/entro-security-closes-18-million-in-series-a  Itzik Alvas’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itzik-alvas/  Entro Security’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/entro-security/  Entro Security’s Website: https://entro.security/  SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome, everyone, to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast. Today, we're joined by Nathan Nasseri, CEO and founder of ResVR. Nathan brings his wealth of experience from 25 years in video game technology and his family's legacy as one of the largest home builders in Alberta. Combining his unique background with a deep understanding of the home building industry, Nathan has innovated the way production home builders visualize and sell homes.  ResVR leverages gaming technology to help homebuyers see and experience their choices, making the often daunting process of selecting finishes and upgrades much more accessible and engaging. Nathan discusses his journey of shifting his business model from a services-based approach to a SaaS model and the impact this has had on their growth. He also sheds light on overcoming the industry's reluctance to adopt new tech and how ResVR proves its value through clear ROI for home builders.  Join us as we explore how ResVR is transforming the home buying experience and the construction industry's approach to technology. Nathan shares fascinating insights into the company's rapid growth, their innovative solutions, and what the future holds. Don't miss this compelling conversation about the fusion of technology and real estate, only on The SaaS CFO Podcast.  Show Notes:  00:00 Software for custom home builders and upgrades.  04:28 Software generates significant returns for home builders.  06:50 No setup fee, pay after using software.  12:29 Slow start but aiming for major growth.  15:08 Raised $1.7 million from various sources.  18:37 Raised money, turned customers into paid users.  20:52 New product release and exterior design focus.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/resvr-secures-cad-1-7-million-in-funding  Nathan Nasseri’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathannasseri/  ResVR’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/resvr/  ResVR’s Website: https://resvr.com/  SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, our host Ben is joined by Alok Goel, the co-founder and CEO of Drivetrain. Alok shares his journey from being a venture capitalist to becoming an entrepreneur and founding Drivetrain.   He discusses the inspiration behind the company's mission to bring predictability to SaaS businesses and details the products and services offered by Drivetrain. Alok also dives into the company's approach to reaching CFOs and shares insights from his fundraising journey. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of aligning with investors who share the long-term vision of the business.   Finally, Alok provides valuable input on the significance of leveraging multiple metrics to drive business decisions. This episode offers valuable insights for SaaS CFOs and entrepreneurs alike.  Show Notes:  00:00 Hiring and timing crucial for SaaS success, aims for predictability.  03:39 We help with planning, data integration, and performance monitoring for achieving targets.  09:20 Different GTM approach focuses on authenticity, customer references, warm introductions, high-quality thought leadership content for CFOs.  10:04 Industry solutions, community content, mission alignment, demo impact on sales.  14:51 Regular communication with investors is essential to ensure alignment of vision and avoid energy-draining mismatches. Choose investors carefully to prevent business disruptions.  16:18 Multiple metrics better than few, beware target fixation.  19:47 Encourages random intellectual discussions with entrepreneurs and CFOs. Available for calls and message exchanges.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/drivetrain-ai-raises-15-million-in-funding  Alok Goel’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goelalok/  Drivetrain’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drivetrainai/  Drivetrain’s Website: https://www.drivetrain.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, SaaS CFO community! Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast. I'm your host, Ben, and today we have a special guest, Jake Soffer, the software founder, and CEO of FirmPilot. Jake's journey is nothing short of inspiring, starting from his days as a recruited hockey player at RPI, diving deep into the fascinating world of Natural Language Processing (NLP), and eventually venturing into entrepreneurship.  In this episode, Jake shares invaluable insights from his experience founding Rollio, a cutting-edge natural language interface for CRMs, and how he navigated every classic first-time founder mistake along the way. We'll delve into FirmPilot, the innovative company he founded in 2023, which is revolutionizing the legal marketing landscape with AI-driven SEO, social media, and ad management solutions tailored for law firms.  Tune in as Jake reveals FirmPilot's journey from a simple experiment to a thriving business, his strategic approach to targeting small and solo law firms, and how they've already achieved top Google rankings for their clients. Plus, you'll hear about how FirmPilot’s go-to-market strategies, fundraising experiences, and metrics for success have shaped the company's growth trajectory. Whether you're a seasoned founder or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with lessons and inspiration. Let's dive in!  Show Notes:  00:00 Data-driven content creation to boost online presence.  03:41 Transitioned from Rollio, helped brother, created MVP.  09:21 Personalized approach and creative outreach for sales.  12:42 Focus on key metrics for current stage.  14:39 Focused on growth, hired first set of bdRs.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/firmpilot-closes-7-million-in-series-a  Jake Soffer’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-soffer-00797a62/  FirmPilot’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firmpilot/  FirmPilot’s Website: https://firmpilot.com/  SaaS Metrics Course here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation-live-cohort-new?mc_cid=b89d27187d&mc_eid=20fbb3e1b5 To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're excited to welcome Apoorva Kumar, the co-founder and CEO of Inspeq. Apoorva shares his fascinating journey from working in big tech companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and SAP to founding Inspeq in Q4 of last year.  Inspeq is a trust layer platform for AI applications, addressing the growing concern of AI inconsistencies and inaccuracies. With a strong focus on enterprise customers, particularly consulting companies, Inspeq provides a robust evaluation and guardrailing solution for large language model applications.  Apoorva discusses the importance of capital in their business, having recently raised $1.1 million from prominent AI funds and seasoned tech executives. He also shares valuable lessons for founders considering fundraising and emphasizes the significance of staying focused on customer enablement and product development.  Join us as we dive into Apoorva's insights on the AI industry, Inspec's growth plans, and their mission to empower organizations to create reliable AI applications faster and cheaper. Don't forget to visit Inspeq.ai to learn more and start "inspeq-ting" your AI outputs today!  Show Notes:   00:00 Relocated from Germany to Ireland, embraced tech.  06:07 Inspeq: Platform for AI application evaluation and optimization.  08:49 Promoting pay-as-you-go developers queue for customers.  12:50 Consulting companies executing multimillion dollar bespoke projects.  16:41 AI business needs capital for growth.  19:32 Guy wins competition, boosts validation and confidence. Heading to San Francisco for grand finale.  20:43 Enabling enterprise customers, focusing on product direction.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/inspeq-ai-secures-1-1-million-in-pre-series-a-funding  Apoorva Kumar’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apoorva-kumar-b2b08431/  Inspeq AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inspeq-ai/  Inspeq AI’s Website: https://inspeq.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Parker Gilbert, the co-founder and CEO of Numeric, join us. Parker dives deep into the journey of Numeric, a company revolutionizing financial data accuracy and automation. He shares his insights on enhancing business processes, the crucial role of AI in tech and CFO space, and Numeric's ambitious plans for growth, including expanding their R&D team and developing new products.  We'll explore Parker's unique path from navigating finance challenges in a fintech startup to co-founding Numeric with a vision to provide clean, auditable financial data. He discusses the importance of aligning costs with ARR growth using metrics like the burn multiple, and how essential it is to have prepared financials and build investor relationships.  Listen in as Parker highlights the key strategies that have driven Numeric's success, from lean operations and achieving product market fit, to their comprehensive platform that syncs ERP transaction data and offers robust financial reporting capabilities. Plus, get insights into Numeric's diverse customer base and their go-to-market strategy involving inbound and outbound sales, content marketing, and strategic partnerships. Whether you're a CFO, an accounting professional, or simply intrigued by the intersection of finance and technology, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.  Show Notes:  00:00 Transitioned from different startups to founding own company.  05:53 Teams building closed checklists for financial data.  08:10 Free checklist helps companies simplify and improve processes.  10:20 Identify, flag, and resolve unexpected financial transactions.  15:21 Product designed to aid finance and accounting.  19:27 Efficiency, automation, and value in audit process.  21:11 Prioritizing product-market fit and lean operations.  27:14 Obsession with top of funnel generation.  29:18 Company plans to expand and innovate products.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/numeric-secures-10-million-in-seed-round  Parker Gilbert’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parker-gilbert-99483298/  Numeric’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/numeric-io/  Numeric’s Website: https://www.numeric.io/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Mackinnon, co-founder and CEO of Subble, a subscription management platform helping companies identify and optimize their software spend. Nathan shares his journey from being the 13th employee at a startup called ActivePipe, where he transitioned from software engineer to product management, all the way through to a successful exit in 2022.  Nathan and his co-founders started Subble after recognizing the challenges companies face in managing their software spend, particularly in the post-COVID era. Subble helps companies discover what software they're using, identify unused licenses, and ultimately save money on their software bills while improving security.  Throughout the episode, Nathan discusses the evolving software spend management space, Subble’s target market, and their go-to-market strategies. He also shares insights on their fundraising journey and the importance of building relationships and networks as a founder.  Join us as we dive into Nathan's entrepreneurial experience and learn more about how Subble is helping companies take control of their software spend in this exciting new category.  Show Notes:   00:00 Team identified software management problem, decided to solve.  06:09 Diverse approaches to software management and procurement.  08:47 Various stakeholders care about unique distributed problems.  12:23 Using direct approach to educate, form partnerships.  13:48 Fortuitous meeting led to accelerated product launch.  17:41 Seeking feedback on Subble’s journey; future follow-up?  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/subble-secures-1-million-in-pre-seed-funding  Nathan Mackinnon’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-mackinnon-648b23205/  Subble’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/subble/  Subble’s Website: https://www.subble.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we welcome Oksana Tolmatshova, co-founder and CEO of Esgrid, a company providing affordable value chain sustainability management tools for medium-sized enterprises and financial institutions. Oksana shares her 20+ year background in banking and fintech, including her experience studying sustainable finance to understand the essential role the financial sector plays in implementing sustainability.  Oksana explains how Esgrid solves the problem of the lack of ESG data for small and medium enterprises by streamlining the collection and analysis of this data. Founded in August 2022 by Oksana and 3 other co-founders, Esgrid impressively secured their first paying customer before even writing a line of code for their MVP. The Esgrid platform creates network effects as more companies in a value chain provide their ESG data, making it simple to share with other partners.  Recently raising a €500,000 pre-seed round, Oksana provides fundraising tips like selling your experienced team early on and being open to alternative funding sources beyond just VCs. She also shares Esgrid’s key metrics, including the number of companies on the platform that have completed ESG assessments and maintaining a high success rate in boosting client efficiency.  Tune in to hear more about Oksana's entrepreneurial journey with esgrid and their mission to improve the sustainability of thousands of SMEs across the EU.  Show Notes:  00:00 Studied sustainable finance, saw lack of data.  06:11 New in market, sales cycle: 2-3 months.  09:34 Found co-founders, grew the business together.  13:07 Network growth, product-led, and sustainability partnerships.  16:50 Challenges in sustainability investment amid legislative noise.  18:00 Lessons: Team is key, seek diverse funding.  21:12 Appreciate insights and look forward to following.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/esgrid-secures-500-000-in-pre-seed-round  Oksana Tolmatshova’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oksanatolmatshova/  Esgrid’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/esgrid/  Esgrid’s Website: https://esgrid.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Hey there, SaaS CFO fans! Get ready for an exciting episode that's all about optimizing your cloud spend. 🚀💰☁️  Our guest today is Roi Ravhon, the brilliant mind behind Finout - a company that's revolutionizing how businesses manage their cloud costs. With a background that spans from the Israeli military to tech, Roi has seen firsthand the challenges of getting a clear picture of cloud expenses and unit economics.  Roi's lightbulb moment? 💡 He realized there had to be a better way. Enter Finout: a game-changing solution that helps you track, allocate, and optimize your cloud spend across multiple providers and services. No more guesswork, just powerful insights that enable you to make data-driven decisions. 📊  In this episode, Roi pulls back the curtain on Finout's ideal customers, go-to-market strategy, and their impressive $26M Series B fundraise. He also shares valuable lessons from the fundraising trenches and the critical SaaS metrics they live and breathe by. 📈  As more companies embrace digital transformation, the challenge of managing skyrocketing cloud costs has never been more pressing. Roi believes Finout is perfectly positioned to become the go-to solution in this space. 🌟  Tune in to hear Roi's captivating story and actionable insights! And don't forget to check out finout.io to dive deeper into the world of cloud cost management. Trust us, your bottom line will thank you. 😉💸  Show Notes:  00:00 An Israeli, military background.  06:17 Vendor cannot automate everything, event reflects costs.  07:39 Agnostic industry focus, targets large and mid-sized companies.  13:29 Series B focuses on scientific SaaS metrics.  15:15 Managing financial data and storytelling for company.  20:19 Cloud optimization company has big growth potential.  21:34 Online platform with abundant information and demos.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/finout-raises-26-3-million-in-series-b  Roi Ravhon’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roiravhon/  Finout’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finout-io/  Finout’s Website: https://www.finout.io/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, everyone, and welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! 🎉 Today, we have a fantastic guest for you—Michelle Valentine, the co-founder and CEO of Anrok. 🚀 In this episode, Michelle takes us on her unique journey from venture capital and investment banking to the tech space, where she founded Anrok, a company specializing in tax compliance for software companies. 💼💡  Michelle dives deep into the challenges and evolving landscape of US sales tax and worldwide VAT 🌐, particularly how recent legal changes and the rise of remote work 🌍 have shifted the paradigm for many businesses. She emphasizes the importance of tax compliance for SaaS companies 🧩, its impact on revenue 💵, and why founders and finance leaders need to be proactive about these issues. 💡📊  You'll also hear about Anrok's impressive growth, innovative use of AI for streamlining tax processes 🤖📈, and their journey from seed funding to a series B round, raising over $50 million. 💰✨ Whether you're a founder, a finance leader, or just curious about the intersection of SaaS and tax, this episode is packed with invaluable information. 📚🔥  Show Notes:   00:00 Connecting dots backward: finance, government revenue challenges.  06:14 E-commerce companies now collect sales tax.  07:35 GitHub now collecting sales tax on invoices.  11:53 Rise of remote work in software companies.  15:35 Anrock values quality investors over quick fundraising.  17:57 Understanding metrics nuance crucial for business success.  20:36 Plan and time meetings strategically for fundraising. Stick to planned fundraising and process.  26:22 AI embedding into product, streamlining finance workflows.  28:12 Active LinkedIn and Substack presence, rock content.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/anrok-closes-30-million-in-series-b  Michelle Valentines’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellevalentinehk/  Anrok’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anrok/  Anrok’s Website: https://www.anrok.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

🎧 Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have a special guest, Max Hahnenkamp, co-founder of Scavenger AI, join us. Max takes us on his entrepreneurial journey, from studying business law in Vienna to working at Deloitte, to ultimately diving into the world of AI with Scavenger. Learn how a chance opportunity in the corporate world led Max to identify a crucial gap in how businesses leverage their data. 📊💡  In this episode, Max shares insights on Scavenger AI's innovative platform that simplifies data integration and analysis, enabling decision-makers to derive meaningful insights effortlessly. We'll also delve into the company's rapid growth, successful fundraising journey, and what's next on the horizon for this promising AI startup. 🚀  If you're intrigued by the intersection of AI and business intelligence or looking to gain valuable lessons from a successful startup journey, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Tune in now! 🎙️🔥  Show Notes:  00:00 Scavenger helps companies make data-driven decisions.  04:28 Target customer: company decision makers, big or small.  09:07 Seek funding early to accelerate business growth.  12:10 Hindsight shows successful process, ups and downs.  14:01 Focus on pre-seed idea, sales process metrics.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/scavenger-ai-secures-1-1-million-in-pre-seed-funding  Maximilian Hahnenkamp’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maximilian-hahnenkamp-31abb8103/  Scavenger AI’s LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/scavenger-ai/  Scavenger AI’s Website: https://scavenger-ai.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, listeners! Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast. Today, we're thrilled to host Colby DeRodeff, co-founder and CEO of Abstract Security, with over 25 years of experience in the cybersecurity field. From his early days at Arcsight to pivotal roles at Silvertail Systems, Anomaly, and Veridan, which later became part of Google, Colby's journey is a masterclass in innovation and leadership.  In this episode, Colby delves into Abstract Security’s mission to redefine the future of security operations. He shares how his team is tackling the relentless cyber threats by monitoring and managing threat data in real-time to protect organizations from breaches. Colby’s passion makes the complex world of cybersecurity both accessible and intriguing.  We also explore his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges and successes of building a SaaS company. Colby offers invaluable advice on fundraising, securing venture capital, and the strategic steps necessary for delivering a successful product.  Whether you're a tech enthusiast, entrepreneur, or curious about cybersecurity, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. So, buckle up and join us on The SaaS CFO Podcast as we uncover Colby DeRodeff's incredible story and vision. Trust us, you won't want to miss this!  Show Notes:   00:00 Built fraud detection content, co-founded successful companies.  05:25 Expansion of cloud infrastructure can lead to challenges.  07:42 Company hubs in various U.S. locations, future-focused.  10:09 Leveraging strong networks to shape product direction.  15:07 Be cautious with venture capitalists, seek experience.  16:23 Experienced advisors provide valuable insights for startups.  21:18 Internal product use vital for customer success.  23:05 Appreciate your time, check out Abstract Security.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/abstract-security-raises-8-5m-in-seed-round  Colby DeRodeff’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colbyderodeff/  Abstract Security’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abstractsecurity/  Abstract Security’s Website: https://www.abstract.security/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Get ready for a truly inspiring and eye-opening episode as we sit down with the dynamic Patrick Rafferty, CEO and founder of UserHub. From an unexpected start in commercial real estate appraisal to becoming a trailblazer in the SaaS world, Patrick's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.  In this episode, Patrick unveils how a moment of serendipity led him to his first role in tech and catapulted him into the world of SaaS. Discover the story behind his meteoric rise at Reonomy, where he went from knowing nothing about product management to leading a team of 60 in just seven years. But that's not all—Patrick also gives us an inside look at the creation of UserHub, a groundbreaking user-based billing platform designed to revolutionize how SaaS companies manage billing.  We'll explore what sets UserHub apart, its ideal customer profile, and their innovative solutions that blend user management and subscription management into a seamless experience. Plus, Patrick shares invaluable lessons about fundraising, the importance of practice pitches, and the all-crucial metric of time-to-value.  Whether you're an aspiring SaaS entrepreneur, a seasoned CFO, or just someone passionate about tech innovation, this episode is brimming with actionable insights and fascinating stories. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into this captivating conversation with Patrick Rafferty!  Show Notes:  00:00 Transitioned from real estate to tech innovation.  05:44 Targeting early-stage SaaS companies for CRM.  08:58 Managing product and engineering, buying SaaS products.  11:41 Product development started in early 2023. Early design partners focused on adoption.  16:21 Seek fundraising advice, practice with lower-priority associates.  19:00 User hub enables fast implementation, optimizing developer experience.  20:23 User Hub to expand and target big companies.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/userhub-secures-3-2m-in-pre-seed-funding  Patrick Rafferty’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-rafferty-b927642b/  UserHub’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/userhubdev/  UserHub’s Website: https://userhub.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below:  Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe  Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page  SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/  Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout  Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray 

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're thrilled to dive into the fascinating journey of Santiago Moreno, the co-founder of Crezes. Santiago began his career in the financial sector in Colombia but quickly realized his passion lay elsewhere. A transformative stint at Uber opened his eyes to the power of technology and innovation, paving the way for his eventual foray into the startup world. Join us as Santiago shares his experiences from Uber, his ventures into early-stage startups, and how he merged his background in real estate with cutting-edge technology to create Crezes. We'll explore how Crezes is revolutionizing location intelligence in Latin America, helping retailers, advertisers, and commercial real estate brokers make data-driven decisions to optimize their physical spaces. From pivoting business models to securing crucial seed funding, Santiago offers invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a SaaS company from the ground up. Whether you're a startup enthusiast, a seasoned entrepreneur, or simply curious about the evolution of location intelligence, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice. So, tune in and get ready to be inspired by Santiago's compelling entrepreneurial journey!  Show Notes: 00:00 We provide location data for LATAM businesses. 05:12 Location is crucial for success in commercial space. 07:32 Solving data access issues for businesses. 11:46 Cautious approach to client expansion, improving product. 15:41 Focus on solving problems and being profitable. 17:44 Revan emphasizes revenue and proof of concept. SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/crezes-raises-750k-in-pre-seed-round Santiago Moreno’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/santiago-moreno-g/ Crezes’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crezes/ Crezes’ Website: https://crezes.com/

Greetings, SaaS CFO Podcast listeners! In today's episode, we're thrilled to welcome Darrin Murriner, the co-founder and CEO of Cloverleaf, an innovative automated coaching platform. Founded in 2017, Cloverleaf leverages behavioral assessments and integrates with everyday tools like email, Slack, and Microsoft Teams to provide scalable coaching solutions.  Join us as Darrin shares his entrepreneurial journey from a traditional career in audit, banking, and finance to leading Cloverleaf. We'll dive into Cloverleaf's unique approach to workplace coaching, their ideal customer profile, and go-to-market strategies. Darrin also offers insights on their successful fundraising efforts, their strategic focus on inbound marketing and channel partnerships, and their plans for scaling the company further.  If you're keen on learning how a robust coaching platform can revolutionize team interactions and performance in large enterprises, this episode is a must-listen. Let's get started with Darrin Murriner!  Show Notes:  00:00 Automated coaching platform using AI and assessments.  03:36 Affordable workplace coaching for large and mid-sized companies.  06:59 Land and expand model targets non-HR buyers.  10:54 Unique co-founder team with fantastic business relationship.  15:25 Inbound strategy emphasizes nurturing and long-term partnerships.  18:02 Market dynamics affecting fundraising for growth stages.  22:11 Focus on milestones, scalability, networking, investor questions.  24:26 Focus on net revenue retention for growth.  27:17 Avoid cloverleaf.com, visit cloverleaf.me for demos.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/cloverleaf-raises-7-3-million-in-series-a  Darrin Murriner’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/murriner/  Cloverleaf’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cloverleafme/  Cloverleaf’s Website: https://cloverleaf.me/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Alon Partuk, founder and CEO of Octup, join us to share his fascinating journey in the direct-to-consumer (D2C) industry and the world of high-tech startups. Alon's entrepreneurial spirit led him from co-founding one of Israel's biggest unicorns, Trucks, to launching his own successful D2C outdoor brand, Apricot. Faced with the complexities of managing operational data and scaling efficiently, Alon developed a cutting-edge solution that eventually evolved into Octup—a revolutionary platform designed to optimize the operations of e-commerce brands.  During our conversation, Alon dives into the challenges he faced, the innovative technology behind Octup, and how his platform provides unparalleled visibility and insights for D2C brands. He also shares the rapid growth of Octup since its inception in mid-2022, their strategic approach to market validation, and the valuable partnerships they've cultivated.  Whether you're an e-commerce entrepreneur or intrigued by SaaS solutions, Alon's insights offer a compelling look at how data consolidation and operational efficiency can drive significant growth. Tune in to hear firsthand how Octup is transforming the D2C landscape and what's next for this innovative startup. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable takeaways and inspiring entrepreneurial wisdom!  Show Notes:  00:00 Improving business visibility and efficiency with Octup.  03:18 Apricot grew rapidly, leading to speaking opportunities. Expanded into Octup, optimizing brands' operations.  09:28 SaaS company succeeded in market validation process.  13:13 Focusing on two main performing client acquisition channels.  13:58 Successful use of old methodologies, unique partnership.  17:04 Octup started mid-2022 before the crisis. Initial quick funding shaped company's trajectory.  20:28 2024 focus on product and sales growth.  Links:   Alon Partuk’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alon-partuk-2220a8110/  Octup’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/octup-com/  Octup’s Website: https://octup.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast!  Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Guy Leibovitz, the co-founder and CEO of Nominal. Join us as we dive deep into the world of finance and accounting software with Guy, a third-time entrepreneur whose impressive background includes founding Cognigo, an AI and data security company acquired by NetApp in 2019.  Guy shares his journey from a technical engineer in data science to a successful entrepreneur and investor, and now to leading a groundbreaking company aimed at solving the challenges faced by mid-market, multi-entity companies. Discover how Nominal is revolutionizing the ERP market with its innovative general ledger technology, and learn about their unique approach to automating complex accounting workflows using generative AI.  Whether you're a finance professional or just fascinated by the intersection of technology and accounting, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories. Tune in to hear more about Nominal's mission, their rapid growth, and what's next on their horizon.  Show Notes:  00:00 ML unifies multi-entity finances with twin ledgers.  06:32 Seeking multi-entity companies for subledger technology.  09:32 Transition from cybersecurity to accounting, a phenomenal experience.  13:20 Met Kyle and Nathan, invested in IPOI.  15:52 Measuring ROI for outbound business development strategy.  17:45 Positive feedback and interest in potential fit.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/nominal-raises-9-2-million-in-seed-round  Guy Leibovitz’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guylaybovich/  Nominal’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nominalinc/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's fascinating episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Kim Getgen, founder and CEO of Innovation Force. Kim brings with her over 25 years of robust experience in commercialization, having navigated the diverse worlds of large corporations and startups. After a pivotal realization in 2019, Kim fully embraced her entrepreneurial spirit, leading her to launch Innovation Force, an innovative AI-powered SaaS platform that democratizes innovation. With a successful history that includes co-founding a cybersecurity company acquired by McAfee, Kim's insights are invaluable.  We'll dive deep into how Innovation Force ims to solve major inefficiencies in corporate innovation, explore their impressive client list including Portland General Electric, and discuss their strategic approach in targeting complex, regulated industries. Notably, Kim will also share how her network, including her ties with Harvard Business School, played a crucial role in their funding journey.   Join us as we uncover the strategies behind Innovation Force’s mission to standardize and streamline the innovation process, making impactful change accessible to companies of all sizes. This episode is packed with insights on commercialization, innovation processes, and entrepreneurial journeys. You won't want to miss it!  Show Notes:   00:00 Measure, track, and scale global innovation impact.  04:46 AR VR goggles in utility worker innovation.  07:40 Deep energy industry involvement, innovation for change.  10:34 Innovation program for 5G technology with Portland.  14:23 Startup success, exceeded funding goals with resilience.  17:35 Key milestones: MSA with EPRI, Linda Hill's support  19:46 Finding customer to bootstrap, good and bad.  23:11 Lynda solves process bottlenecks with cultural insights.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/innovationforce-raises-pre-seed-funding  Kim Getgen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimgetgen/  Innovation Force’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovation-force/  Innovation Force’s Website: https://www.innovationforce.io/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we have an exciting conversation with Vinodh Poyyapakkam, CEO and co-founder of Coris, a company transforming the landscape of small business risk management with advanced AI-driven solutions. Vinodh brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at industry giants like PayPal, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Google.   Join our host, Ben, as he dives into Vinodh’s impressive journey from working in risk and compliance to founding Coris in 2022. Discover how Coris is helping companies worldwide automate and optimize their risk management processes for small businesses, the innovative products they offer, and the pivotal role AI plays in their solutions.   Whether you’re a SaaS entrepreneur, a fintech enthusiast, or just curious about the intersection of AI and small business risk management, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss! Tune in to learn more about Vinodh’s entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of fundraising for a startup, and what lies ahead for Coris.  Show Notes:   00:00 Mission: Build risk infrastructure to help companies.  05:35 Diverse companies work with embedded payment platforms.  08:14 Investors focus on team, not just traction.  12:14 Careful hiring, experienced team, intentional small size.  13:23 Solving business identity and risk globally, innovatively.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/coris-raises-3-7-million-in-seed-round  Vinodh Poyyakkam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinodhpo/  Coris’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/corisinc/  Coris’ Website: https://www.coris.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast. Today we have an exciting conversation lined up for you as we dive into the world of revenue planning and optimization with our distinguished guest, Eric Boduch, the founder of Revcast. Eric brings a wealth of experience, having been deeply involved in the SaaS space since its early days.   In this episode, he'll discuss the journey from working with early SaaS models to developing a solution that empowers revenue organizations to optimize their operations with predictive insights. You'll hear about the inception of Revcast, their focus on rev ops leaders, and how they manage to raise $3.1 million in their seed round pre-beta. Get ready for enlightenment on building credibility with investors, the importance of community within the Rev Ops space, and Eric's outlook on growth within the SaaS industry.   Whether you're a startup founder, financial professional, or just curious about SaaS, you won't want to miss Eric's valuable insights. So plug in, stay tuned, and let's get ready to unlock the secrets of succeeding in SaaS revenue operations with Eric Boduch on The SaaS CFO Podcast.  Show Notes:   00:00 Experienced professional in early SaaS industry reflects.  04:03 Rev ops software empowers sales leader's understanding.  07:48 Targeting revenue management, agility and system limitations.  10:04 Salesforce deal data usually clean, minimal issues.  13:26 Deep expertise and focus on credibility in revenue operations.  17:03 Researched, developed, and raised funds for startup.  19:44 Key metrics are important for growth evaluation.  23:24 Focus on building community and product content.  25:48 Email address shared and thanks exchanged on podcast.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/revcast-raises-3-million-in-seed-round  Eric Boduch’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-boduch-a1b61/  RevCast’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/revcast/  RevCast’s Website: https://www.revcast.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, everyone! In today's episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're thrilled to have Zach Barney, the co-founder and CEO of Mobly, join us for an engaging conversation. Zach is a seasoned sales professional with a rich background that spans from bootstrap startups to publicly traded companies and private equity. Now, he's channeling his extensive experience into revolutionizing lead capture and engagement with Mobly.  Zach shares the journey that led him to create Mobly, a universal lead capture, enrichment, and engagement application. He dives into the inefficiencies he encountered in traditional sales processes and how Mobly addresses these issues, making it easier for field sales reps to log activities and manage leads efficiently. We'll explore Mobly's ideal customer profile, their impressive go-to-market strategy, and how they've quickly gained traction since their founding in early 2023.  In addition to discussing Mobly's innovative solutions, Zach offers invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of fundraising, sharing lessons learned from their recent $2.5 million seed round. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a sales professional, or simply interested in the evolving landscape of SaaS solutions, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories.  Stay tuned as we delve into how Zach and his team are making waves in the sales tech world and what's next on the horizon for Mobly. Let's get started!  Show Notes:  00:00 Data-driven sales leadership, discipline, and pipeline challenges.  06:05 ROI, lead speed crucial for user capture.  08:13 Mobly captures leads, enriches data, and trains models.  10:02 LinkedIn posts, events, podcast; generating business effectively.  13:48 Startup's growth required significant time and investment.  16:42 Multiple big events in Vegas, product updates.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/mobly-raises-2-5-million-in-seed-round  Zach Barney’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachbarney/  Mobly’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getmobly/  Mobly’s Website: https://www.getmobly.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, SaaS CFO Podcast listeners! In today's episode, I, your host Ben, am thrilled to have a conversation with Edward Tsinovoi, the co-founder and CEO of IO River. Edward brings over 20 years of extensive experience from the SaaS and deep tech industries, having held pivotal roles at Akamai, the renowned content delivery network responsible for advancements in edge computing. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of IO River, a cutting-edge company revolutionizing how digital content is delivered across the globe. Edward explains IO River's unique approach to leveraging multiple edge platforms, ensuring enhanced performance, reliability, and cost efficiency for high-traffic companies.  We also explore IO River's extraordinary growth since its founding in 2022 amidst challenging market conditions, its successful $5.4 million seed funding, and how it continues to save clients significant resources while boosting their online services. Edward shares insights into their go-to-market strategy, the critical importance of preparation in fundraising, and the metrics that guide IO River's rapid expansion. Whether you're a CFO, a tech enthusiast, or interested in SaaS innovations, this episode is packed with valuable insights. So, tune in, and let's dive into the world of IO River with Edward Tsinovoi!  Show Notes:  00:00 Internet has undergone major revolutions in 2030.  04:16 Target companies: media, OTT, gaming, e-commerce, travel. Benefit: resiliency, not reliant on single vendors.  07:36 Founded Iowa river in 2022, despite challenges.  12:48 Preparation, fundraising, experienced partners, short process, success.  14:39 Challenges of multi CDN strategy in industry.  18:34 Focused on ARR and customer value-driven strategy.  21:41 Learn more about Edward and IO river.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/io-river-raises-5-4-million-in-seed-round  Edward Tsinovoi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-tsinovoi/  IO River’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/io-river/  IO River’s Website: https://www.ioriver.io/   To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Alexis Normand, the CEO and co-founder of Greenly, join us for an in-depth conversation. With a fascinating background that includes time spent in international consulting, tech startups, and digital health, Alexis brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.   Greenly fers innovative SaaS solutions for carbon footprint tracking, targeting mid-market and SMBs to help them manage and reduce their carbon emissions. Under Alexis's leadership, the company has seen rapid growth and significant impact, boasting over 180 employees and surpassing $10 million in ARR. We'll delve into Greenly journey, the intricacies of carbon accounting, the challenges of fundraising in today's climate, and exciting product and market expansion plans.   Whether you're an entrepreneur, a CFO, or someone passionate about sustainability, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Let's dive in!  Show Notes:  00:00 Create invisible carbon footprint accountability for businesses.  03:59 Emissions tracking and regulations are changing business.  07:38 Providers' environmental impact and future trajectory analyzed.  11:51 Discovering cost-effective platform for in-house consulting.  14:05 Emissions management gaining traction, attracting investors.  19:15 Product carbon footprint, expanded services, regulatory compliance.  20:35 Exciting update on Greenlee's SaaS community.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/greenly-raises-52-million-in-series-b  Alexis Normand’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisnormand/  Greenly’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenly-earth/  Greenly’s Website: https://greenly.earth/en-us  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

 🎙️ Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Andris Dzudzilo, Co-CEO of Mapon, a leading fleet management company based in Northern Europe. Join us as Andris shares his incredible 14-year journey with Mapon, scaling the company from a local Latvian startup to a global SaaS powerhouse with operations across six continents and a wide array of industries. We dive into Mapon's innovative solutions, from simple GPS tracking to advanced AI-driven telematics, and discuss how they adapt to diverse regulations across different regions.  Andris also opens up about the company's go-to-market strategies, partner channels, and recent milestone achievements, including their first-ever external capital raise through a €3 million bond issuance aimed at fueling their ambitious M&A plans. If you're curious about driving growth in the SaaS world, particularly in the fleet management sector, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in to explore Mapon's journey, challenges, and the future roadmap with Andris Dzudzilo! 🚛📈  Visit www.mapon.com to learn more and follow along with the episode. Enjoy!  Show Notes:  00:00 Shifted focus to sales, partnership, international markets.  03:15 Leading fleet management company in Europe with global reach.  06:10 Focused on heavy commercial transport, various industries.  11:43 Drauge group had established operations before my arrival.  15:02 Regulations, like driving and resting times, enforce compliance.  16:41 Successful M&A strategy, European market consolidation, bond issue.  19:06 Shifting strategy to target specific industry players.  22:12 Ambitious plans for expansion through mergers and acquisitions.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/mapon-raises-3-million-in-funding  Andris Dzudzilo’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andris-dzudzilo-88388920/  Mapon’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mapon/  Mapon’s Website: https://www.mapon.com/us-en  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have Michael Matias, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Clarity, join us. With a fascinating background in offensive cybersecurity from his time in the IDF and a multidisciplinary approach encompassing AI, behavioral economics, and deepfakes, Michael has a wealth of knowledge to share.  In this episode, Michael dives into his journey, from working on AI and cybersecurity at Stanford to co-founding Clarity—a deep tech startup focused on identifying and combating deepfakes. He elaborates on Clarity's innovative solutions, ranging from infrastructure-driven APIs to enterprise use cases like video conferencing authentication.  Michael also opens up about Clarity's growth, their recent $16 million seed round, and the challenges of navigating an emerging market. He discusses the importance of creating real value, focusing on the pain points of deepfake threats, and the evolving landscape of digital media trust. Whether you're a founder, investor, or someone intrigued by the future of cybersecurity and AI, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.  So, get ready to explore the cutting-edge world of deepfake detection and the future of digital trust with Michael Matias on The SaaS CFO Podcast. Tune in now!  Show Notes:   00:00 Michael Matias, CEO of Clarity, multidisciplinary background.  05:38 Israeli AI and cybersecurity startup with US presence.  10:09 Quickly attracted top talent, investors, and technology.  12:31 Focus on pain point, team dedication, value.  15:05 Creating value through media, interactions, analysis, adaptation.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/clarity-secures-16-million-in-seed-round  Michael Matias’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matiasmichael/  Clarity’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getclarity-ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have a special guest, Trevor Lee, the co-founder and CEO of Myko. Trevor brings a wealth of experience from the finance sector, having worked at Fitch Ratings and later transitioning into entrepreneurship.   In this episode, Trevor shares the intriguing journey of his company, which began as Genius Sheets and evolved into Myko. He discusses the challenges and insights behind this major pivot, the innovative use of AI for sales and revenue data analysis, and the lessons learned from fundraising with top investors like Khosla Ventures.   Tune in to hear about Trevor's vision, the current state of Myko, and what lies ahead for this promising startup!  Show Notes:   00:00 Formed partnership with Intuit, developed own language model.  04:07 Data extraction from Quickbooks wasn't a priority.  07:13 Hybrid tool combining revenue intelligence and BI.  11:12 Sales focus: Leadership, mid-level managers, operations.  15:42 Working with design partners to improve capabilities.  19:28 Struggled with fundraising, then succeeded with persistence.  20:45 Strong AI focus, early investor in AI.  24:14 Guiding metric: customer activation for product success.  27:36 Discussion on recognizing business roadblocks and pivoting.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/myko-ai-secures-2-7-million-in-seed-round  Trevor Lee’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevorlee20/  Myko AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/myko-ai/  Myko AI’s Website: https://www.myko.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to have David DeWolf, President and CEO of Knownwell, join us. David shares his incredible journey from being an engineer to founding and scaling Three Pillar Global, a digital product development company, to nearly $200 million in revenue with 2,500 employees worldwide.   After taking a brief hiatus, David launched his latest venture, Knownwell, in September 2023. Knownwell is diving headfirst into the enterprise AI space, focusing on revolutionizing how B2B service companies institutionalize client intelligence to drive growth and retention.   Tune in as David provides fascinating insights into his entrepreneurial journey, including the challenges and triumphs of starting a new business, the intricacies of customer-driven development, and valuable advice on raising pre-seed capital. Whether you’re a SaaS founder or just curious about the evolving landscape of AI in business, you won’t want to miss this conversation.  Show Notes:  00:00 Former engineer turned successful digital product entrepreneur.  03:49 Targeting middle market with potential for reinvention.  07:23 Market needs customer-driven execution, enterprise AI focus.  09:47 Professional services struggle with client intelligence, churn.  12:48 Seizing opportunity, filled coffers for enterprise AI.  15:51 Raising capital without product, validating market need.  20:19 Created roadmap, focusing on marketing metrics and pipeline.  22:12 AI understands, David shares experiences. Appreciative.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/knownwell-closes-2-million-in-pre-seed-round  David DeWolf’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddewolf/  Knownwell’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/knownwell/  Knownwell’s Website: https://knownwell.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, our host Ben sits down with Shameek Ghosh, the CEO and co-founder of TrusTrace. Shameek takes us through his unique journey from working in IT services to founding his startup in Sweden.   TrusTrace is a B2B SaaS platform focused on product traceability and supply chain transparency, specifically in the fashion and textile industry. Shameek shares insights into the challenges big fashion brands face in managing their complex supply chains and highlights how TrusTrace's platform digitizes and streamlines this process.   From fundraising to expansion plans, Shameek provides valuable lessons and future directions for the innovative company. Join us as we dive deep into the intricacies of SaaS, sustainability, and global business with Shameek Ghosh on The SaaS CFO Podcast.  Show Notes:   00:00 Large fashion companies face complex supply chain challenges  04:57 Assessing supplier's sustainability with chain of custody.  07:29 Traceability is typically under sustainability or CFO.  10:21 Specializing in traceability for fashion industry.  15:12 Series A regulations driving, Series B sees tailwind.  18:10 Be patient, prepare well before fundraising.  20:56 Expand in Europe and US, deepen existing markets.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/saas-startup-trustrace-raises-6-million-in-series-a  Shameek Ghosh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shameek/  TrusTrace’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trustrace/  TrusTrace’s Website: https://trustrace.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Greetings, SaaS CFO Podcast listeners! In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Tom Hamer, the co-founder and CEO of Marqo, join us. Tom, who started his career as a software engineer at AWS and has been developing apps since he was just 14, shares his journey from his early beginnings to founding Marqo in 2022.   Marqo offers an end-to-end vector search platform powered by the latest AI models, designed to revolutionize information retrieval. Tom discusses the unique qualities of Marqo , including its open-source and cloud platform offerings, and how it's being used by diverse industries from ecommerce to government.   He also delves into their fast-paced growth, fundraising journey, and plans to scale further with a focus on customer success. Stick around for insights into their innovative approach and the exciting road ahead!  Show Notes:   00:00 Vector databases revolutionize information retrieval with AI.  04:10 Marko powers e-commerce search and recommendations.  08:08 Open source community with users and talent.  11:55 Open source growth led to strong commercial interest.  13:17 Open source accelerates growth and developer trust.  16:22 Build connections, engage investors, gradually lead fundraising.  19:52 Promoting Marqo AI on LinkedIn, appreciated.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/marqo-closes-12-5-million-in-series-a  Tom Hamer’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-hamer-%F0%9F%A6%9B-04a6369b  Marqo AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marqo-ai/  Marqo AI’s Website: https://marqo.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! I'm your host, Ben, and today we have an exciting episode lined up for you. Joining us is Sergio Gonzalez, the co-founder and CEO of Remuner—a groundbreaking SaaS platform aimed at optimizing remuneration for sales and customer success teams. With a rich background in business management consulting and entrepreneurship, Sergio has already founded and successfully exited multiple companies across diverse sectors, including fintech, food delivery, and digital signature services.  In this episode, Sergio shares his journey from consulting to launching his fifth venture, the vibrant startup scene in Barcelona, and how Remuner helps companies streamline their variable compensation processes through a no-code, cloud-based platform. We'll delve into Remuner's focus on customer-facing teams, their diverse customer base, fundraising insights, and the company's future. Whether you're a burgeoning SaaS founder or interested in innovative compensation solutions, this episode is packed with valuable insights you're going to love. So, let's get started!  Show Notes:  00:00 Optimizing remuneration for growth with SaaS platform.  04:58 We connect with customer systems using out-of-the-box connections.  08:44 Complicated B2B SaaS business teams' compensation.  11:56 Started 5 months ago, pleased with traction.  15:53 September launch showed early traction, changed fundraising strategy.  18:53 Currently focused on user adoption and engagement.  20:02 Focus on executing, engaging customers, iterating efficiently.  Links:   SaaS Fundraisng Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/remuner-raises-2-million-in-pre-seed-round  Sergio Gonzalez’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergiogonzalezgaspar/  Remuner’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/remuner/  Remuner’s Website: https://remuner.com/en/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to this special episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're delving into the cutting-edge world of data product management with Nadiem von Heydebrand, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Mindfuel. In today’s conversation, Nadiem shares his fascinating journey from working as a data scientist and consultant to leading a pioneering company that’s transforming how businesses manage and value their data initiatives.   We'll explore the origins of Mindfuel, sparked by a crucial conversation about the necessity for a product mindset in the data industry. Nadiem will discuss the unique challenges and strategies in building Mindfuel’s groundbreaking SaaS application, which aligns data management with business opportunities and distinctly quantifies efforts in dollar values.   Join us as we unpack the significance of UI/UX in their product Delight, learn about their recent fundraising success, and get insights into their ambitious expansion into the US market. Whether you're a manager, business professional, or just a tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights on navigating the intricate landscape of SaaS and data product management.  Show Notes: 00:00 Customer meeting triggered need to justify investment.  04:06 Friend became successful product manager; shared secret.  06:59 Data product management solves data management problems.  11:50 Discovered in 2020, invested in research.  15:23 Research, feedback, rejection, problem discovery, product development.  16:55 Second reason: tailored services for major enterprises.  21:02 Bootstrapped company with professional services, raised funding.  24:59 Understanding and justifying key performance indicators is crucial.  27:46 Excited for US market entry with support.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/mindfuel-closes-3-75-million-in-seed-round  Nadiem von Heydebrand’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadiemvh/  Mindfuel’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfuelai/  Mindfuel’s Website: https://www.mindfuel.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have an insightful conversation with Niclas Lilja, the founder and CEO of Younium. Niclas takes us on a journey through his extensive background in the SaaS and software industries, from his roots in Sweden to founding Younium, a company dedicated to subscription management and billing specifically for B2B SaaS and software companies.  He delves into the niche needs of complex enterprise deals, the evolution of Younium, and shares expert insights into the challenges of fundraising, metrics that matter, and strategic growth.   Stay tuned as Niclas gives us a peek into the future plans for Younium and his seasoned perspective on steering a SaaS company in today's competitive landscape.  Show Notes:  00:00 Improved systems; created flexible enterprise solutions quickly.  03:49 Managing customer relationships, revenue processes, integration.  08:59 Maturing approach to software, more professional perspective.  12:11 B2B SaaS helps companies with external requirements.  15:22 Outbound and inbound marketing, events, customer focus.  19:12 Timing for fundraising, despite challenges.  23:14 Key metric: contracted ARR, expenses, cash flow.  25:09 CFO discusses contracted ARR, cash burn, runway.  27:38 Main channels for outreach: LinkedIn and website.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/younium-secures-2-76-million-in-funding  Niclas Lilja’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niclas-lilja/  Younium’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/younium/  Younium’s Website: https://www.younium.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today’s insightful discussion, we are thrilled to have Jakob Šuster, the CEO and co-founder of Elv AI, join us. Jakob shares his fascinating journey into the world of SaaS, which began quite unexpectedly from a background in economics and political science.   He delves into how Elv AI evolved from a CSR initiative in response to the increase in toxic online comments during the Ukraine crisis of 2022. We’ll explore Elv AI’s unique approach that combines artificial intelligence with human moderation to manage and filter online content, making digital spaces safer and more respectful.   Jakob also discusses the challenges and triumphs of starting and scaling a tech business in Central Europe, touching on funding, customer acquisition, and future expansions.   Whether you’re interested in the intricacies of content moderation, SaaS business strategies, or startup growth, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Join us as we uncover how Elv AI is tackling one of the internet's most pressing issues through innovative technology and strategic market approaches.  Show Notes:   00:00 Media and public institutions struggled with toxic comments. Solution was to hire people, but not scalable.  04:09 Flexible content moderation integrates AI and human moderators.  07:28 Expanding tech company focused on smaller countries.  10:53 EU Digital Services Act mandates online content moderation.  14:03 Focus on real problem to build product.  16:59 Expressing gratitude and requests for future engagement.  Links:   Jakub Šuster’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakub-suster/  Elv.AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elv-ai/  Elv.AI’s Website: https://elv.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast, where we explore the journeys of innovative founders in the tech world. Today, we're thrilled to have Alastair Blenkin, CEO and founder of Procure Pro, join us.   Alastair, a former lawyer turned tech entrepreneur, shares his transition from law to launching his own SaaS company. We dive into the challenges and pivots along his journey, especially how his first startup adapted and evolved into Procure Pro during the unpredictable waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.   Tune in as Alastair discusses the nuances of building a procurement software aimed at revolutionizing the construction industry, their strategic funding rounds, and the road ahead for Procure Pro.  Show Notes:  00:00 Former real estate lawyer launched software platform.  03:18 Managing complex construction projects through specialized software.  08:22 Construction industry embraces practical solutions, sees opportunities.  11:20 Focus on mid to enterprise market, not mega.  15:00 Heavy R&D, enterprise product, angel investment, strategic growth.  18:35 Prepare market sizing and pricing model early.  19:23 Prioritize growth rate for billion-dollar business success.  22:27 Strategic focus on building a successful business.  Links:   Alastair Blenkin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alastairblenkin/  Procure Pro’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/procurepro/  Procure Pro’s Website: https://procurepro.co/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray  

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today’s episode, we delve into the intriguing world of video analytics with our guest Chelsie Hall, CEO of Viral Moment. With a rich background in tech and product management, Chelsie brings a wealth of experience to the fore, having worked with the Department of Defense and Department of State before venturing into entrepreneurship.   Today, she’s here to discuss how Viral Moment, a B2B SaaS platform, leverages cutting-edge AI to decode the complexities of video content on social media platforms, offering brands unprecedented insights into viral trends and the effectiveness of their digital marketing strategies.   Join us as we explore the challenges and breakthroughs in video analytics and what the future holds for digital content visibility.  Show Notes:  00:00 Tech career, product management, own companies, video understanding.  05:24 Paradigm shift in social media entertainment.  07:45 Rapid changes in market create revenue opportunities.  11:34 Focus on product, customers, solve real problem.  13:56 Exciting time for AI and social video.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/viralmoment-raises-2-5-million-in-seed-round  Chelsie Hall’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsie-hall/  ViralMoment’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viralmoment/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, where today we're thrilled to have Michael Zuercher, CEO and co-founder of Prismatic, join us. Michael will share his journey from running a successful software startup for 16 years and encountering numerous integration challenges, to founding Prismatic, a company focused on simplifying integrations for other software companies.   Today, Prismatic is distinguishing itself in the SaaS space by offering an embedded integration platform that enhances software interoperability. Michael will discuss the evolution of Prismatic, its services, the unique challenges of the SaaS integration landscape, and insights from their recent funding rounds.   We'll dive deep into the strategic approaches Prismatic is using to scale their operations and their plans for future growth. Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to shed light on the complexities and innovations within the SaaS integration sector.  Show Notes:  00:00 Prismatic helps SaaS companies with product integration.  03:20 SaaS integration aims to reduce non-unique work.  09:13 Prismatic raised Series B earlier than expected.  10:29 Current environment may bring success with adaptability.  14:54 Two pricing components: subscription and usage-based fees.  16:18 Exciting growth, new category, product announcements ahead.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/prismatic-raises-22-million-in-series-b  Michael Zuercher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-zuercher/  Prismatic’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prismatic-io/  Prismatic’s Website: https://prismatic.io/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to this exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, where we dive into the groundbreaking world of AI-driven photography with William Wu, the innovative CEO of Artisse. Today, William will share his journey from a finance professional at McKinsey to spearheading a tech startup that's revolutionizing how we think about and use photographs.   With Artisse’s cutting-edge technology, users can generate hyper-realistic photos of themselves in myriad scenarios with just a few clicks. Whether it’s for personal use on social media or professional deployment in fashion, tourism, or online dating platforms, Artisse is setting new standards in the image-centric digital landscape.   Join us as we explore the business model, the fascinating technology behind it, and the ambitious growth plans that are setting Artisse apart in the booming AI industry.  Show Notes:  00:00 Studied finance, worked at McKinsey and Oaktree.  03:48 AI makes photo creation easy for users.  09:50 Top 1% user spends $1000, retention and revenue high.  12:45 App Store fee not a major factor.  17:00 Seek experienced and convicted industry leaders.  19:03 Focused on scaling business in various markets.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/artisse-ai-secures-6-7-million-in-seed-round  William Wu’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-wu/  Artisse AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artisseai/  Artisse AI’s Website: https://artisse.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast, everyone! Today's episode features a fascinating conversation with our special guest Ramesh Rajentheran, CEO and founder of Miya Health. With an impressive background that spans from practicing medicine to investment banking, Ramesh has navigated an extraordinary path leading to the inception of his company.   After leaving a promising career to become a stay-at-home dad following personal tragedy, he was inspired to fix critical issues in patient care and health insurance which led to the birth of Miya Health. Ramesh shares how his platform not only connects patients to the right doctors at the right time but also strives to improve the efficiency of health insurers alike.   Despite starting his company just before COVID, Ramesh has secured nearly $10 million in fundraising and has set his sights on impacting the health insurance of 100 million people. Tune in to learn about Miya Health's journey, their challenges in the health tech industry, and the vision that drives their expansion and innovation.  Show Notes:   00:00 Left high-flying job to build healthcare solution.  04:05 Big insurance core systems handle data distribution.  09:51 Efficient company strategy in challenging funding environment.  13:23 Bootstrapping not feasible, needed capital for fundraising.  14:40 Validating technology, seeking investors across industries, mission-focused.  19:31 Expanding market, funding, R&D, talent focus.  21:15 Appreciate Miya health, connect with Ramesh.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/miyahealth-raises-pre-series-a-extension  Ramesh Rajentheran’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramesh-rajentheran-723248/  Miya Health’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/miya-health/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to a new episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, I'm thrilled to sit down with Steven Nelemans, the innovative founder and CEO of Luna AI. In a candid conversation, Steven walks us through his personal journey from a young electrical engineering student in the Netherlands to dropping out at 19 and venturing into entrepreneurship. With insights into his first startup and the transition from technical roles to CEO duties, Steven sets the scene for the inception of Luna AI.  Luna AI enters the market as a game-changer with its all-in-one B2B sales platform specializing in top-of-funnel sales processes. Steven shares how their AI-driven solution not only sources leads but crafts compelling, personalized sales copy to empower SDRs and AEs with efficiency and improved performance.  Amid robust growth plans, Steven reveals Luna AI's strategic focus on the unique challenges of SaaS companies, touching on the pivotal role of Luna's technology in the quick-scaling phase when companies bring in their first sales hires. With an international footprint and a multi-lingual platform, Luna AI's vision for the future is compelling, and Steven discusses their fresh approach to raising capital, delivering value, and expanding reach.  Get ready for an episode packed with valuable takeaways on product-led growth, the drive for innovation in sales strategy, and the importance of keeping customers at the core of all endeavors. It’s an illuminating peek behind the curtain of Luna AI, right here on The SaaS CFO Podcast!  Show Notes:   00:00 Ideal customer for growing SaaS companies.  05:03 Jamco forecasts are open to non-SaaS companies.  09:22 Dynamic AI market challenges early revenue generation.  12:30 Small companies buy software; sales hire crucial.  15:12 Raised precede round to buy time and focus.  17:35 Efficient fundraising strategy yields better investor deals.  20:02 Planning and building for future growth and success.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/luna-ai-secures-2-5-million-in-pre-seed-round  Steven Neleman’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-nelemans/  Luna AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getluna-ai/  Luna AI’s Website: https://luna.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another insightful episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast where we dive deep into the world of test automation and intent automation with a rising star in the tech industry. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Jonas Menesklou, the CEO and co-founder of Ask UI, a company at the forefront of leveraging machine learning to simplify and enhance software testing. Jonas will share his journey from university in Karlsruhe, Germany, directly into entrepreneurship, and the pivotal moments that led to the birth of Ask UI with his computer scientist co-founder.  You'll hear about their unique approach to solving the perennial challenges of test automation in large enterprises and how Ask UI is changing the game by allowing software tests that sound good to be just as good when automated. Jonas will discuss the company's current trajectory, their focus on large enterprise customers, particularly those dealing with Windows software, and how usage metrics drive their business decisions.  Moreover, Jonas opens up about the fundraising landscape, their successful seed round of €4.3 million, and the strategic importance of preparing for investment opportunities. As Ask UI gears up for an exciting 2024, they're not only enhancing their product but also expanding their sales team, with Jonas transitioning from founder-led sales to building a sales engine that can operate independently.  Join us as we unpack the exciting journey of Ask UI, explore the challenges they've overcome, and the milestones they're chasing. Whether you're a SaaS enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about the developments in test automation, this is an episode you don't want to miss!  Show Notes:  00:00 Automating testing process and raising initial funds.  03:10 Test automation for enterprise software applications.  09:17 Evaluating software, targeting customers, confident in progress.  11:10 Prepare thoroughly for a successful fundraise.  13:40 Striving for repeatable revenue through efficient sales.’  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/askui-raises-4-3-million-in-seed-round  Jonas Menesklou’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/menesklou/  Ask UI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/askui/  Ask UI’s Website: https://www.askui.com/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below:Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we dive into the fascinating story of Deepak Shrivastava, the founder and CEO of Sunrise AI. In this episode, we'll unravel Deepak's journey from the world of investment banking to becoming a CFO and entrepreneur. He shares his profound insights into the appeal of SaaS revenue models, steering through the complexities of the tech industry, and his experiences in steering a travel tech company during the uncharted territories of the pandemic.  Deepak gives us an inside look into his latest venture, Sunrise AI, an innovative company that's shaking up the fintech space with AI-powered credit and due diligence services. Listen in as he discusses the challenges outdated credit assessment methods present and how his company aims to revolutionize this space with technology that's more inclusive and fits the modern economic realities.  Join us as Deepak opens up about the early stages of building Sunrise AI, from securing initial funding to navigating go-to-market strategies. His perspective on the importance of storytelling in fundraising and the strategic emphasis on validating his product in the market offers invaluable lessons for any startup founder.  As we probe into the operational side of a new venture, Deepak also discusses team dynamics, pricing strategies, the power in targeting a niche initially but keeping options open for adjacent markets, and the critical metrics he's using to steer Sunrise AI towards success.  Don't miss out as we explore Deepak's vision for a fairer credit system—one that breaks free from traditional bias and strives for inclusivity. So tune in, as we unpack the story of a SaaS entrepreneur set on making a significant impact in the fintech world.  Show Notes:   00:00 CFO with background in investment banking, tech, SaaS.  05:41 Credit reporting for landlords beyond traditional methods.  07:05 Corporations as individuals, assessing credit risk, SMBs.  10:20 Seeking mid-market property owners for prop tech.  15:13 Study collected data, predicted rent payment accuracy.  17:07 Struggles with capital, storytelling, and investor alignment.  19:17 Metrics and marquee brands validate market receptivity.  Links:   SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/sunrise-ai-secures-pre-seed-funding-round  Deepak Shrivastava’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepak-shrivastava-3baa12/  Sunrise AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunrise-ai/  Sunrise AI’s Website: https://www.sunrise.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're sitting down with Andrew Butt, the co-founder and CEO at Enable, a revolutionary B2B SaaS platform designed to streamline rebate management in the supply chain. Andrew's journey from building custom software for businesses to spearheading a category-defining platform offers a treasure trove of insights. With a background that marries application development with an acute understanding of business mechanics, Andrew is a seasoned entrepreneur now leading his third company.  In a candid conversation with our very own Ben, Andrew delves into the intricate world of rebates — a space he both dominates and continuously innovates within. He shares the compelling growth story of Enable, which has expanded rapidly to a robust size of over 600 team members and a remarkable multi-fold increase in ARR year-over-year. The duo also tackles the ever-important topic of fundraising, with Enable having recently completed a significant round that puts them well on the track towards an ambitious public offering.  Andrew's practical wisdom on achieving product-market fit, honing in on vital go-to-market strategies, and balancing growth with efficiency makes this episode a must-listen. Are you ready to dive into the nuts and bolts of revolutionizing rebate management and building a SaaS platform that scales? Join us as we explore the enablement journey through Andrew's exceptional leadership at Enable.  Show Notes:  00:00 Creating new market, already market leader.  04:46 Creating custom software for clients' unique needs.  08:33 CFO crucial in managing company's finances effectively.  11:14 Consistent growth, strong retention, huge market potential.  14:39 Achieved product-market fit, successful revenue growth.  17:17 Transitioned from launch to focus and scale.  20:30 Focus on growth, efficiency, and customer success.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/enable-raises-120-million-in-series-d  Andrew Butt’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/awbutt/  Enable’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/enable-software/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast, and in this episode, we're thrilled to host Litan Yahav, the insightful co-founder and CEO advisor who brings his vast experience into the spotlight. From his roots in the Israeli Navy to his entrepreneurial venture in the diamond industry and his passive investment endeavors, Litan has a multifaceted background that is sure to captivate our listeners.   Today, we'll delve into his latest venture with Vyzer, a groundbreaking SaaS platform designed to automate and streamline the wealth management process for those with enough complexity but not enough to warrant a family office. Litan will unveil the unique challenges and solutions of managing private investments, the evolution of Visor's ideal customer profile, and their go-to-market strategies.   We'll also get an insider perspective on their recent fundraising efforts, the transition from beta to launch, and what the future holds for Vyzer in their quest to democratize financial management. So, buckle up for a deep dive into a world where technology meets personal finance, and learn how Litan and his team are reshaping the way we manage our wealth.  Show Notes:  00:00 Automating financial management for high net worth individuals.  05:14 ICP target expanded to diverse wealth levels.  08:47 Beta testing, iterating, launch with client feedback.  11:16 Online acquisition from various platforms, affiliate marketing, partners.  15:33 Raising money can be tough, but learn.  17:10 Focus on financial metrics for business growth  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/vyzer-raises-6-3-million-in-seed-round  Litan Yahav’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/litanyahav/  Vyzer Finance’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vyzerfinance/  Vyzer’s Website: https://vyzer.co/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we sit down with Tanguy Chau, co-founder and CEO of Paxton AI. Tanguy shares his journey from being a venture capitalist in Silicon Valley to founding his own company.   He discusses Paxton's generative AI legal and regulatory assistant, its target customers, go-to-market strategy, the challenges of selling to law firms, and the significance of generative AI technologies in the legal industry. Tanguy also shares insights about raising $6 million in seed funding and offers valuable advice for early-stage founders.   Stay tuned to hear about the future of Paxton and the transformational impact of generative AI in the legal industry.  Show Notes:  00:00 Paxton: AI legal assistant streamlines legal research.  06:21 Law firms adopting technology due to efficiency.  08:30 Focused on US statutes, rules, regulations, court rulings.  12:58 Early revenue shows need and repeatability achieved.  14:39 Adopt product growth strategy; focus on content.  20:51 Emphasizes finding unique, in-demand value.  23:53 Paxton's skills will shape future legal industry.  25:53 Learn more about Tanguy at Paxton AI.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/paxton-raises-6-million-in-seed-round  Tanguy Chau’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanguychau/  Paxton’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/paxtonai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, the essential listen for anyone captivated by the synergy of technology, finance, and entrepreneurship. Today's episode is an inspiring foray into the world of AI-powered content creation with a young visionary at its helm - Cole Gonzales, CEO of Ossa.AI.  Join us as we chart Cole's remarkable journey from social media sensation to tech startup pioneer. With Ossa.AI, he's challenging the norms of content creation, supporting individuals to craft compelling stories with ease through advanced AI. We'll dive into the successes and struggles of launching and nurturing a technology startup, from early-stage beta testing to managing the growing pains of a promising new SaaS business.  Buckle in for a deep dive with the minds behind Ossa.AI. We’ll peel back the layers on bootstrapping a business, engaging communities, and the strategic foresight needed to propel a SaaS company forward. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a SaaS aficionado, or someone fascinated by the potential of AI, this episode with Cole is sure to enrich your understanding of the cutting edge of content creation.  Show Notes:  00:00 Started on social media, gained huge following.  03:11 School not for everyone; seeks self-guided education.  06:56 Started community on social media, grew large.  12:51 Iterative development of short form video product.  14:51 Product tested with beta group, achieved success.  17:37 Proving product works, gaining feedback, refining product.  21:48 Delay raising funds, focus on bootstrapping strategy.  24:51 Analyzing subscriptions, expenses, risks, and QuickBooks.  28:01 Focus on retention through understanding user demographics.  30:32 Versatile usage for diverse content creators explained.  33:42 Emphasizing front-end features for predictable output.  Links:  Cole Gonzales’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cole-gonzales/  Ossa.ai’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ossa-ai/  Website: https://ossa.ai/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, our host Ben welcomes Eric Xiao, founder and CEO of Laxis, to share insights about his background and the innovative AI copilot service provided by Laxis. Eric discusses his extensive experience in the software industry, including his transition from a venture investor to founding Laxis in 2020.   He explains how Laxis offers AI-powered meeting note-taking, automatic email generation, CRM integration, and a chatbot for sales teams. Eric emphasizes that Laxis targets small to medium-sized businesses due to its affordability and essential functionality for automating sales processes. The conversation delves into Laxis' pricing model, market strategy, and the remote work dynamics of the Laxis team. Eric also provides valuable insights into his recent fundraising journey, the challenges faced during the capital raising process, and the shifting landscape of investor expectations for early-stage startups.   Lastly, he shares a glimpse into the future of Laxis, highlighting the development of an AI agent. Tune in to discover more about Eric's journey with Laxis and the exciting developments on the horizon for this innovative AI-powered solution.  Show Notes:  00:00 Fifteen years in software industry, including MBA.  04:09 Lexus software offers essential sales functionality, affordable.  09:40 Challenging year for oil entrepreneurs, strong growth.  12:21 SaaS fundraising expectations and standards are shifting.  13:39 Emphasizing user acquisition and retention for Laxis.  Links:  SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/laxis-raises-1-5-million-in-seed-round  Eric Xiao’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shuai-xiao/  Laxis’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laxis-tech/  Laxis’ Website: https://www.laxis.com/  Eric Xiao’s Email: eric at laxis.tech  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben speaks with Itzik Alvas, the co-founder and CEO of Entro Security. Itzik shares his extensive background in cybersecurity, including his experience in offensive and defensive cybersecurity roles at the IDF and Microsoft.   He provides valuable insights into the challenges companies face with securing and managing programmatic access keys, also known as secrets, and how Entro Security offers a complete solution to address this critical issue. Itzik discusses the target market for their solution, their sales cycle, and the lessons learned from their successful seed funding round.  Listeners will gain valuable insight into the world of cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and the exciting future plans for Entro Security.  Show Notes:  00:00 IBM and Verizon report on costly cyberattacks.  03:31 Regenerating keys is essential for security.  07:10 Co-founder experienced breaches, led to founding security company.  11:11 Easy SaaS integrations, quick findings and reports.  16:38 Validate, learn, improve, and go for it.  17:49 Mainly focused on ARR and CAC metrics.  Links:   Itzik Alvas’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itzik-alvas/  Nirit Icekson’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nirit-icekson-09999a/  Entro Security’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/entro-security/  Entro Security’s Website: https://entro.security/  To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray