Sriya Maram - Co-Founder of Persana AI: The Modern GTM Stack, Prompt Engineering, and How AI is Impacting GTM

That Worked

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29:41

Greg Melia emphasizes that empathy and curiosity are the foundation of effective customer experience (CX). He believes that organizations must design systems proactively—through tools like journey mapping and predictive analytics—rather than relying solely on reactive fixes. Melia highlights the importance of understanding customer motivations and aligning internal operations to consistently deliver value across all touchpoints. He also stresses the need for cross-functional collaboration and leadership that models CX priorities. When hiring, Melia looks for individuals who demonstrate storytelling ability, problem-solving, and ownership—key traits for driving cultural transformation. His approach reinforces the idea that sustainable CX excellence requires intentional system design, emotionally intelligent talent, and unified leadership around customer-centric goals. About Greg Melia At the helm of CXPA, my focus revolves around championing the global customer experience profession through strategic communications and community building, honed over five transformative years in leadership. Our organization thrives on CX certification, publications, and community that empower customer experience professionals to excel. Resources Customer Experience Professional Association: https://www.cxpa.org/home https://www.cxpa.org/home Please, hit the follow button: Apple Podcast: http://cxgoalkeeper.com/apple Spotify: http://cxgoalkeeper.com/spotify We’d love to hear your thoughts — leave a comment and share your feedback! Follow Gregorio Uglioni on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregorio-uglioni/ About Gregorio Uglioni: Transforming Business Into Value Generating Engines - Creating Long-Lasting Impact Leveraging Customer Experience - Host Of The Globally Recognized CX Goalkeeper Podcast “Customer Experience Goals” - Speaker at global events & at podcasts - Judge at International Awards - CX Lecturer for several institutions Listen to more podcasts on The Agile Brand network here: https://agilebrandguide.com/the-agile-brand-podcasts/…

about a year ago 36:23

MP3•Episode home

Sriya is the Co-Founder of Persana AI. Persana AI is a Y-Combinator-backed AI tool designed to enhance sales through hyper-personalization, seamless integration, and united workflows.

Prior to Persana AI, Sriya was a Product Manager at LinkedIn.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

The value of participating in hackathons.
What a modern GTM tech stack looks like.
How to develop a ‘prompt engineering’ skill set.
How using your own product impacts your product roadmap.
How to educate, train, and inspire customers to adapt cutting edge technology.

Follow Sriya on LinkedIn

Connect

Follow Callan on LinkedIn

117 episodes

#Careers #Entrepreneur #Business #Callan Harrington

That Worked

Sriya Maram - Co-Founder of Persana AI: The Modern GTM Stack, Prompt Engineering, and How AI is Impacting GTM

That Worked

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Sriya is the Co-Founder of Persana AI. Persana AI is a Y-Combinator-backed AI tool designed to enhance sales through hyper-personalization, seamless integration, and united workflows.

Prior to Persana AI, Sriya was a Product Manager at LinkedIn.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

The value of participating in hackathons.
What a modern GTM tech stack looks like.
How to develop a ‘prompt engineering’ skill set.
How using your own product impacts your product roadmap.
How to educate, train, and inspire customers to adapt cutting edge technology.

Follow Sriya on LinkedIn

Connect

Follow Callan on LinkedIn

Subscribe to the Newsletter

117 episodes

#Careers #Entrepreneur #Business #Callan Harrington

All episodes

That Worked

1
Closing the Chapter: From That Worked to The Insurance Growth Lab 12:13

13 days ago12:13

12:13

Callan Harrington, Founder of Flashgrowth and host of That Worked , reflects on the journey of his podcast as he records its final episode before shifting to The Insurance Growth Lab. In this solo episode, he dives into the origins of the show, what it became, and why now is the right time to focus fully on the insurance space. With stories, founder-inspired lessons, and a glimpse into what’s next, Callan shares the evolution of the podcast. In this episode, you’ll learn: How That Worked began as a networking tool, and why it quickly became something more impactful How repeated founder advice led Callan to niche down into insurance, sparking major growth The lessons and momentum gained from getting tactical and going deep with guests What to expect from The Insurance Growth Lab , including a video-first format and industry focus How vulnerability and consistency shaped the long-term success of the show Follow Callan on LinkedIn…

That Worked

1
Matt Farrell - COO at Niobium Microsystems: Succeeding in the Earliest Stages, Evaluating Potential Employees, and Creating Work/Life Alignment 43:05

22 weeks ago43:05

43:05

Matt Farrell is the COO at Niobium Microsystems, a trusted hardware design company developing high-performance microelectronic components to enable the secure collection, processing, and distribution of critical data. Matt is a multi-time founder and early-stage executive. Before the startup world, Matt was a coach for the University of Dayton Men’s basketball team and later the Assistant Athletic Director at the University of Dayton. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to create work/life alignment How sports prepare you for startups How to evaluate potential employees What to expect in the earliest stages of a company Why you need to have a bias for action in a startup Follow Matt on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Mastering Content Strategy, Delegation, and Creative Efficiency 20:51

23 weeks ago20:51

20:51

In this episode of That Worked , co-hosts Callan Harrington and Sullivan Finlay dive into content strategy, delegation, and maximizing creative output. Sullivan shares how structured planning has transformed his workflow, the power of visual content boards, and why repurposing content is essential for expanding reach without reinventing the wheel. They also break down the 10-80-10 rule of delegation, an approach to outsourcing that helps creators and entrepreneurs focus on high-impact work. Plus, they dive into the role of relationships in business growth and discuss the balance between creative control and efficiency. In this episode, you’ll learn: Strategies for effective collaboration and outsourcing Why repurposing content can supercharge engagement How to leverage visual planning tools for content creation The importance of structured ideation and content pipelines The 10-80-10 rule of delegation and how it optimizes workflow Follow Sullivan on TikTok and Instagram Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
The Power of Improv, AI-Driven Content, and Buying Back Time for Growth 23:28

24 weeks ago23:28

23:28

In this episode of That Worked, host Callan Harrington and comedian/content creator Sullivan Finlay explore how improv can transform leadership, the evolving landscape of AI-driven content creation, and why outsourcing is essential for scaling creative work. Sully shares improv techniques—such as adaptability and active listening—that boost effectiveness both on stage and in the workplace, while Callan emphasizes the growing importance of human-driven insights in an AI-saturated environment. Together, they unpack how AI-generated search results are reshaping content discovery, highlight the practical benefits of delegation to reclaim valuable time, and offer candid observations about the world of LinkedIn thought leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of outsourcing to reclaim time and focus on growth. Why improv training can enhance leadership, negotiation, and adaptability. How content creators can balance control with delegation for better output. How AI-generated search results are reshaping content discovery and online trust. Managing frustration and workflow efficiency in a high-demand creative environment. Follow Sullivan on TikTok and Instagram Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
The Ethics of AI, Digital Likenesses, and the Future of Content Creation 26:39

25 weeks ago26:39

26:39

In this episode of That Worked , host Callan Harrington and comedian/content creator Sullivan Finlay dive into the rapidly evolving role of AI in entertainment, content creation, and brand collaborations. They explore the ethical dilemmas of AI-generated personas, the impact of deep research tools on competitive analysis, and how AI is reshaping creative industries. Sullivan shares his perspective on balancing creative integrity with AI-driven scalability, the challenges of licensing digital likenesses, and why in-person entertainment might become even more valuable in an AI-saturated world. Callan and Sullivan also discuss their upcoming live comedy show, Corporate Takeover, and the creative process behind bringing corporate satire to the stage. In this episode, you’ll learn: The impact of AI on industries like acting, comedy, and digital media The challenge of balancing creative ownership with AI-generated content How Sullivan and Callan are developing a live comedy show inspired by corporate culture How OpenAI’s deep research tool is reshaping competitive analysis and content preparation Why AI-driven brand collaborations present both opportunities and ethical dilemmas for creators Follow Sullivan Finlay on TikTok and Instagram Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Why Specialization Changes Everything 16:21

26 weeks ago16:21

16:21

Callan Harrington, Founder of FlashGrowth and host of That Worked , takes a deep dive into the strategic decision to niche his business into the insurance space. In this solo episode, he breaks down the fears, challenges, and long-term benefits of narrowing focus in business. If you’ve ever hesitated to specialize, this episode is packed with insights on how niching down can unlock exponential growth opportunities. In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of industry expertise for differentiation Why committing to a niche can accelerate word-of-mouth referrals Why niching down feels risky but often leads to exponential growth How segmentation and early adopters play a role in business success How specialization simplifies decision-making and improves networking Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
The Power of Niching Down, Adding Instant Value, and Vulnerability in Content Creation 30:22

27 weeks ago30:22

30:22

In this episode of That Worked , host Callan Harrington and co-host Sullivan Finlay, a writer, comedian, and content creator, dive into the challenges and opportunities of building a career in the evolving digital landscape. They explore the vulnerability of content creation, why niching down can accelerate business growth, and how relationship-building plays a crucial role in expanding creative opportunities. Sullivan shares his insights on adapting to industry shifts, while Callan discusses adding instant value in business and the importance of strategic positioning. Together, they offer actionable advice on future-proofing careers and navigating an ever-changing digital world. In this episode, you’ll learn: How AI could redefine knowledge work and career stability The power of niching down in business growth and creative careers Strategies for leveraging existing relationships to expand opportunities The high-stakes TikTok bidding war and what it means for brands and creators How content creators can diversify income streams and future-proof their careers Follow Sullivan Finlay on TikTok and Instagram Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Sriya Maram - Co-Founder of Persana AI: The Modern GTM Stack, Prompt Engineering, and How AI is Impacting GTM 36:23

28 weeks ago36:23

36:23

Sriya is the Co-Founder of Persana AI. Persana AI is a Y-Combinator-backed AI tool designed to enhance sales through hyper-personalization, seamless integration, and united workflows. Prior to Persana AI, Sriya was a Product Manager at LinkedIn. In this episode, you’ll learn: The value of participating in hackathons. What a modern GTM tech stack looks like. How to develop a ‘prompt engineering’ skill set. How using your own product impacts your product roadmap. How to educate, train, and inspire customers to adapt cutting edge technology. Follow Sriya on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Scott Knowles - Co-Founder and CEO of Deep Vector: Empathy in Sales, Selling to a Competitor, and Breaking the Rules 34:48

29 weeks ago34:48

34:48

Scott Knowles is the Co-Founder and CEO of Deep Vector, a web-based software platform that transforms unstructured documents into actionable insights with speed and precision. Prior to Deep Vector, Scott was the Founder and CEO of Modgic, a software company that provided workers' compensation and mod analysis tools for the commercial insurance industry and was successfully acquired by Zywave in 2021. In this episode, you’ll learn: The power of narrowing your focus. How innovating internally can differentiate your service model. How to test if a product is ready for you to start selling externally. When it makes sense to transition from bootstrapping to raising capital. How to approach partnerships and acquisitions with competitors without sharing sensitive information. Follow Scott on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Dan Snyder - CEO & Co-Founder of Lower: Launching a B2C Line, Growth through Acquisition, and Building an Entrepreneurial Culture 30:11

30 weeks ago30:11

30:11

Dan Snyder is the CEO & Co-Founder of Lower, a multi-channel home lender he helped build and grow over the last decade into the 28th largest lender in the country. Lower operates both an online direct to consumer business, and offline retail business with over 150 offices across the country. Lower raised the largest Series A in the State of Ohio ($100M) from fintech investors Accel and Sofi. Dan has also been named in the Smart 50 Class of 2022, 40 Under 40, Future 50 Class of 2021, and the #4 CEO by Glassdoor. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to adapt from a B2B to B2C mindset. When to acquire externally versus build internally. How an entrepreneurial culture empowers high performers. How to grow market share in a down market through acquisition. How avoiding over-accommodating a seller in an acquisition leads to long-term success. Follow Dan on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Tom Grote - CEO of Agape Automation: Narrowing your Focus, Stong Values, and Balancing the Core Business and Innovation 31:05

31 weeks ago31:05

31:05

Tom Grote is the CEO of Agape Automation, a food-tech innovation company that creates the automated Smart Kitchens of the future. Prior to Agape Automation, Tom was the COO of Donatos Pizza for over 17 years, a family-owned pizza company with more than 150 locations in six states. In this episode, you’ll learn: How narrowing in on what you’re really good at grows profits. The value of seeking out educational opportunities later in life. How to maintain a balance between operational excellence and innovation. How to build a business grounded in courage, empathy, and doing the right thing. The importance of surrounding yourself with a diverse team with complementary skills. Follow Tom on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Dan Manges - Co-Founder of RWX: Finding Your Co-Founder, Engineering Challenges, and Decision Making 47:24

32 weeks ago47:24

47:24

Dan Manges is the Co-Founder of RWX. RWX develops software engineering tools that optimize build and test performance, reliability, and developer experience. Its flagship product, Mint, is a generation newer Continuous Integration platform that gives engineers unparalleled capabilities to optimize their builds. Dan was previously the CTO of Root, a technology-powered car insurance carrier, which he co-founded in 2015 and took public via an IPO in 2020. Before Root, Dan was the CTO of Braintree, where he built a payments platform that PayPal acquired in 2013 for $800M. In this episode, you’ll learn: The unique challenges engineers face What to look for in a technical co-founder What to look for in a non-technical co-founder The benefits of assigning a mentor to new employees Why you need to focus on the problems you’re having now Follow Dan on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Matthew Achak - Co-Founder of FCR: Coin Flips, Choosing the Right Business Partner, and Employee Retention 34:11

33 weeks ago34:11

34:11

Matthew Achak is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Non-Linear Venture Partners, where he consults and invests in early-stage start-ups. Prior to Non-Linear Venture Partners, Matt Co-Founded FCR, the leading provider of outsourced live agent support services for tech companies. FCR was acquired by TTEC in 2019. In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of establishing a company's DNA and core values early The value of having a complementary and trustworthy business partner How to increase your employee retention rate in a high attrition business Strategies for leveraging small communities to build a successful business How taking chances and learning new things can help you find your calling Follow Matthew on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
David McFarland - Founder and CEO of Coterie Insurance: Building the Initial Team, Mitigating Hiting Mistakes, and Stage Fit 37:33

34 weeks ago37:33

37:33

David McFarland is the Founder and CEO of Coterie Insurance. Coterie Insurance puts insurance agents and brokers first, delivering instant business insurance across the United States. Since 2018, Coterie has raised over $100M in funding and partnered with over 10,000 insurance agencies and brokerages across the country. Prior to leading Coterie, David was Chief Actuary at Clearcover, a personal auto insurtech startup in Chicago. David is also a Fellow in the Casualty Actuarial Society and has an extensive background in creating and managing insurance programs. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to evaluate a potential co-founder. How to structure a consult-to-hire team before raising capital. How robust data collection can help you stand out from the competition. How a strong and quick offboarding process can mitigate hiring mistakes. How to ensure you have the right team members for the current stage of your business. Follow David on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Ry Walker - Founder and CEO of Tembo: Difficult Moments, The Role of CEO, and Paying it Forward 28:03

35 weeks ago28:03

28:03

Ry Walker is the Founder and CEO of Tembo. Tembo is the Postgres developer platform for building every data service. Their mission is to collapse the database sprawl of the modern data stack with a unified developer platform. Prior to founding Tembo, Ry was the Founder and CEO of Astronomer, which has been a huge success and has raised over 280 million dollars. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to navigate the difficulties of layoffs. The value of selling 5% of your shares during Series B. The importance of letting your team review you as a CEO. How to build strong leaders through clear expectations of roles. The importance of paying it forward within your entrepreneur community. Follow Ry on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Tim Metzner - Founder & CEO at Fireroad: Nurturing Your Culture, Retaining Top Talent, and Leaps of Faith 33:08

51 weeks ago33:08

33:08

Tim Metzner is the Founder and CEO of Fireroad. Fireroad is a new kind of holding company, borrowing the best from venture studios and private equity models. They bring a balanced approach to managing the risk of early-stage ventures with the predictability of enduringly profitable businesses. Prior to Fireroad, Tim was a Founder of Ocean Accelerator, Differential, and Coterie Insurance. He’s also an active angel investor in 56 deals. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to nurture a great culture How to vet a co-founder you don’t know When it makes sense to raise venture capital The importance of culture in retaining top talent. The role of early mentorship and unconventional career paths. Follow Tim on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Ryan Eder - Founder & CEO of IncludeHealth: Selling Your Vision, Big Pivots, and Design Thinking 41:49

52 weeks ago41:49

41:49

Ryan Eder is the Founder and CEO of IncludeHealth. IncludeHealth is an innovative healthcare technology company focused on delivering virtual physical therapy and patient data collection. Ryan has a deep design background, having previously served clients like Nike and GE. He has also twice won Best in Show at the International Design Excellence Awards. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to sell your vision A different way of looking at pivots The importance of winning strategic awards The role of design thinking in solving complex business problems. The challenges and solutions in transitioning from hardware to software in healthcare. Follow Ryan on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Sasha Gainullin - CEO of battleface and Robin Assist: Creating a 24/7 Company, Pivoting the GTM Motion, and Balancing Accountability and Autonomy 35:00

1 year ago35:00

35:00

Sasha Gainullin is the CEO of battleface and Robin Assist. Battleface is a global company enabling customers and partners to easily select travel insurance products and services that perfectly fit their needs. Robin Assist is a tech-driven emergency travel assistance platform supporting the travel insurance industry. Prior to battleface and Robin Assist, Sasha was the Interim CEO of Tangiers Group and, before that, the COO of Tangiers International. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to create a 24/7 company How to successfully pivot GTM models How to balance accountability and autonomy The power of immersing yourself in an industry The importance of being adaptable and responsive in crisis situations Follow Sasha on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Individual Contributor vs. Leadership, Applying Stand-Up and Improv in Business, and Striking a Balance 37:39

1 year ago37:39

37:39

In this episode of That Worked, host Callan Harrington and co-host Sullivan Finlay dive into a wide array of topics, from recording strategies and Zoom meeting setups to the evolving roles of being an individual contributor vs. leadership within companies. They discuss the balance between career advancement and personal satisfaction, highlighting Apple's approach to rewarding individual contributors without forcing them into leadership roles. The conversation also covers the benefits of stand-up and improv for personal and professional development, as well as the challenges of navigating social interactions. In this episode, Callan and Sullivan Discuss: The impact of AI and technology on personal health and productivity. How to reward individual contributors that don't want to go into management. The creative process behind Sullivan's content and how he keeps it engaging. The importance of personal and professional balance in achieving long-term success. Insights into the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in comedy and content creation. Follow Sullivan Finlay on TikTok and Instagram F ollow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Luke Buchanan - Co-Founder of Redi Health: Recruiting Great Employees, Landing Enterprise Deals, and Challenging Your Ideas 47:00

1 year ago47:00

47:00

Luke Buchanan is the Co-Founder of Redi Health. Redi eliminates the confusion and complexity of the health journey through unparalleled access and support. Prior to founding Redi Health, Luke was the Director of Pharma Account Management at CoverMyMeds. He joined CoverMyMeds before its acquisition by McKesson and helped continue to scale the team post-acquisition. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to Operate with 4 Co-Founders How to Recruit Great Early Employees How to Find Your First Enterprise Clients The Mindset Needed to Win Enterprise Deals How to Balance Working on the Core Business vs. What Comes Next Follow Luke on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Derek & Jessica Crain - Founders at Mindful Therapy Group: Maintaining Quality, Organic Growth, and Navigating Business and Marriage 36:49

1 year ago36:49

36:49

Derek and Jessica Crain are the Founders of Mindful Therapy Group and Mindful Support Services. When they first founded Mindful Therapy Group, they had a vision of uniting like-minded mental healthcare specialists to serve with compassion, experience, and a fresh outlook on mental wellness. They now serve more than 1000 independent clinicians and have collectively served over 48,000 families, couples, teenagers, and children seeking to improve their lives with professional guidance. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to maintain quality while scaling Strategies for scaling a business organically The importance of healthy boundaries in business The benefits of having a visionary and an operator as partners How to balance marriage and business partnership successfully Follow Derek on LinkedIn Follow Jessica on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Personal Branding, Content Creation, Managing Stress, and Building Human Connection 43:23

1 year ago43:23

43:23

In this episode of That Worked , host Callan Harrington and co-host Sullivan Finlay, a writer, comedian, and content creator, explore the importance of personal branding, consistency in content creation, and the value of in-person interactions. Sullivan shares his journey from accounting to full-time comedian, while Callan provides insights on content strategy and founder experiences. They discuss strategic goal planning, the significance of human connections, managing stress, and adapting to new opportunities, offering valuable perspectives on achieving personal and professional growth. In this episode, you’ll learn: Strategies for maintaining consistency and creativity. How to leverage social media to build a personal brand. Insights into managing stress and maintaining a work-life balance. The transition from a corporate career to full-time content creation. The importance of human connection in personal and professional growth. Follow Sullivan Finlay on TikTok and Instagram Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Travis Hedge - Co-founder and CRO of Vouch: Startup Secrets - Conquering Adversity and Mastering Product-Market Fit 32:58

1 year ago32:58

32:58

Travis is the Co-founder and CRO of Vouch. Vouch is the insurance company for the technology industry. Since 2019, Vouch has underwritten billions in risk on behalf of over 4,000 clients, backed by A-rated reinsurers and $165M from Ribbit, YC, Redpoint, and others. Previously, he helped Nationwide Insurance launch Nationwide Ventures before joining Silicon Valley Bank’s Venture Capital group, where he raised over $1B from institutional investors to invest in fintech and digital health startups, including Root Insurance, Ladder Life, and Earnin. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to respond to adversity What makes a good co-founder How to host a small group dinner The importance of geographic location How to leverage community-led growth Follow Travis on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Justin Ihnken - CEO & Co-Founder of Enorra_: Overcoming Criticism, Building Networks, and Being Resourceful 44:29

1 year ago44:29

44:29

Justin Ihnken is the Co-Founder and CEO of Enorra_. Enorra_ is revolutionizing finance by developing SaaS tools that eliminate complexity and accelerate data-driven decisions using machine learning and AI. Their mission is to enhance competitiveness in financial trade, focusing on data analytics, marketplace solutions, and ESG banking. Prior to Co-Founding Enorra_, Justin Co-Founded QNTM Labs, a contract laboratory focused on providing chemical and biological analysis, as well as contract research, development, and regulatory compliance applications to pharmaceutical companies. In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of resourcefulness in a startup How to get up to speed on a new industry quickly How to effectively transition from one industry to another The benefits of hiring senior talent early to accelerate business growth The significance of pushing through criticism and rejection in entrepreneurship Follow Justin Ihnken on LinkedIn Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Ali Schwanke - Founder & CEO at Simple Strat: Leveraging YouTube for B2B Growth, Harmonizing Sales and Marketing, and Cutting Through the White Noise of the Marketplace 43:20

1 year ago43:20

43:20

Ali Schwanke is the Founder and CEO of Simple Strat. Simple Strat is a marketing and sales firm that helps you get more out of HubSpot. From CRM strategy and setup to marketing automation and content creation, their services are tailored to fuel customer acquisition and retention. Simple Strat is also a HubSpot Diamond Solutions Partner and the host of HubSpot Hacks, the #1 unofficial YouTube channel for HubSpot Tutorials. Ali is a data-driven marketing professional with 15+ years of experience in B2B, strategy, and content marketing. Most of all, she’s hilarious. In this episode, you’ll learn: What makes a good first hire How to align sales and marketing teams How to build a YouTube channel for B2B The benefits of a peer network as an entrepreneur How to differentiate yourself in a competitive market Follow Ali on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Wil Schroter - Founder & CEO of Startups.com: From Service Business to Product Business, Embracing Opportunities, and Managing Health 47:38

1 year ago47:38

47:38

Wil Schroter is the founder and CEO of Startups.com, the world's largest startup platform. They help over one million startup companies find customers, funding, mentors, and world-class education. Before founding Startups.com, Wil founded multiple successful startups like Swapalease.com and Fundable.com. He also founded Blue Diesel at the age of 19 and grew it to $700 million in capitalized billings before it became inVentiv, now valued at $6 billion dollars. In this episode, you’ll learn: The impact of extreme stress on founders How saying "yes" to opportunities can open unexpected doors. The significance of having a mission-driven approach in business. The transition from a service-based business model to a product-based one. The importance of balancing multiple ventures and managing personal life effectively. Follow Wil Schroter on LinkedIn Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Andy Jenks - General Partner at Drive Capital: Bootstrapping vs. Raising Capital, Mission-Driven Startups, and the Silicon Valley Journey 37:12

1 year ago37:12

37:12

Andy Jenks is a General Partner at Drive Capital, a Columbus-based venture capital firm focused on investing in world-class technology companies outside of Silicon Valley. Before Drive, Andy was a 3-time founder at Formation Data Systems, Discovery Mining, and Infinite Research. Both Discovery Mining and Infinite Research were successfully acquired. In this episode, you’ll learn: Experiences from the early days of Silicon Valley. When to take venture capital instead of bootstrap. The critical role of being mission-driven in a startup. When to bootstrap instead of taking venture capital. The importance of understanding your fit within the business stages. Follow Andy on LinkedIn Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Ayden Syal - Founder & CEO at MOGL: NIL Dynamics, Startup Scaling, and Influencer Impact 41:38

1 year ago41:38

41:38

Ayden Syal is the Co-Founder and CEO of MOGL, a leading athlete influencer marketplace and NIL software provider that streamlines partnerships between brands and athlete influencers. Prior to starting MOGL, Ayden worked at Morgan Stanley, Lexington Partners, and IHS Markit (now S&P Global). Ayden has been named to the Sports Business Journal New Voices Under 30 list, The Marquis "Who's Who in America" list, and won the 2022 SXSW Pitch competition on behalf of MOGL. In this episode, you’ll learn: Tactics for fundraising A playbook to distribute thought leadership How to get traction in marketplace business How to leverage influencers to grow your business Insights into the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) industry Listen to Ayden's SXSW Talk & follow Ayden on LinkedIn Connect Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Tim Robinson - CEO of AgencyBloc: Private Equity Transformations, Integrating Acquisitions, and Managing a Leadership Team 36:49

1 year ago36:49

36:49

Tim Robinson is the CEO of AgencyBloc. AgencyBloc is the leading Insurance Industry Growth Platform serving the health, benefits, and senior insurance space. Prior to AgencyBloc, Tim was the COO of WorkWave, COO of FMG Suite, and COO of Cii. All of those companies are private equity portfolio companies. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to conduct a daily leadership team huddle The lifecycle of a private equity portfolio company How to manage and integrate company acquisitions How private equity investment impacts business operations. The journey from VP to Chief Operating Officer in a private equity environment. Connect Follow Tim Robinson on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Rick Fox - CRO of Brightway: Leading Leaders, Setting Expectations, and Creating a Performance Culture 37:26

1 year ago37:26

37:26

Rick Fox is the Chief Revenue Officer of Brightway Insurance. Brightway is one of the largest insurance distribution companies in the U.S., with over 300 franchises in 32 states. Prior to joining Brightway, Rick was the Head of Agency Sales at Vertafore, a leading insurance software company, and previously served as the President of Agency Revolution, an agency automation and marketing consultancy. In this episode, you’ll learn: How sports principles can transform corporate leadership Strategies for building resilience and adaptability in teams The importance of setting clear expectations for team success Techniques for fostering a feedback-rich culture in any organization The significance of discipline and commitment in achieving personal and professional goals Follow Rick Fox on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Todd Kaufman - Co-Founder and CEO of Test Double: ESOPs, Strict Profit Margins, and Building an Ownership Mentality 43:54

36 weeks ago43:54

43:54

Todd Kaufman is the Co-Founder and CEO of Test Double. Test Double is a software agency offering consulting services in development, product management, and infrastructure. Their experienced consultants embed with your team and help solve problems from strategy to execution. Todd has been a software engineer for over 25 years, focusing on building systems that deliver business value and scale without excessive costs. Prior to Test Double, Todd worked as a Vice President at Pillar Technology. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to secure speaking engagements by building your personal brand. The value of organic relationship building to procuring initial client engagements. How an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) can attract and retain top talent. An overview of the tactical steps to set up an ESOP, the upfront costs, and long term benefits. How strict profit margin goals can help you avoid layoffs and stay competitive by investing money back into the business. Follow Todd on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

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Joe Apgar - CEO of PELOTONIA: Surviving Cancer, Sharing Your Story, and the Power of Family and Friends 56:40

37 weeks ago56:40

56:40

Joe Apgar is the CEO of PELOTONIA, which was established in 2008 to fund lifesaving cancer research and is a rapidly growing non-profit today. Before PELOTONIA, Joe worked eight years at Rockbridge Capital. He was named to the 40 Under 40 Class of 2020 by Columbus Business First and the Future 50 Class of 2021 by Columbus CEO Magazine. In 2022, he was selected as a member of the Young American Leaders Program at Harvard Business School. In this episode, you’ll learn: The healing power of writing and journaling The power of sharing your story to move others What it’s like working for a mission-driven organization Why there is nothing more important than friends and family The importance of prioritization as you take on more responsibilities Follow Joe on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

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Maddie Bell - Co-Founder and CEO of Scheduler AI: Driving Habit Change, Using Your Own Product, and Big Idea Thinking 40:37

38 weeks ago40:37

40:37

Maddie Bell is the Co-Founder and CEO of Scheduler AI, an AI appointment setter that integrates directly into your CRM, web forms, and chats to coordinate meeting times in seconds while safeguarding your show rates. Prior to Scheduler AI, Maddie was a Brand Director for Procter & Gamble. While at P&G, she spent 12 years leading and delivering topline, bottom line, and share growth for multiple billion-dollar brands and products. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to measure if an innovative idea can become a business The value of a customer-centric approach to product development The importance of providing value before asking for a habit change from customers The “mind and heart” insight framework that drives impactful product development How implementing your product in your own business eliminates potential roadblocks Follow Maddie on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Aaron Crookes - Co-Founder & CEO of Apricity Robotics: Picking the Right Product for Your Market, Balancing Product Development vs. Business Building, and Strategic vs. Generalist Investors 35:39

39 weeks ago35:39

35:39

Aaron Crookes is the Co-Founder and CEO of Apricity Robotics, a startup focused on developing semi-autonomous robots to aid and assist both patients and healthcare staff. Their main goal is to automate simple tasks so healthcare staff can be fully dedicated to critical patient needs. Prior to Apricity Robotics, Aaron worked in R&D for Autonomous Robots and Devices at Proctor and Gamble. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to balance building the product with building the business. When it’s necessary to bring in experienced operators into a startup. The importance of understanding the financial impact of your product. How to look beyond titles to match the right team member to the right task. The importance of finding strategic industry investors when introducing a novel product. Follow Aaron on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Amanda Epp - CEO at ScriptDrop: Creating a Network Effect, Building a Customer Flywheel, and Being Your Authentic Self as CEO 40:34

40 weeks ago40:34

40:34

Amanda Epp is a founding team member and the CEO of ScriptDrop. ScriptDrop is the only healthcare IT company specializing in medication access that serves patients in all 50 states. ScriptDrop works alongside its healthcare partners to deliver medication access opportunities through technology, empathy, and healthcare expertise. Previously, Amanda was an early employee of CoverMyMeds, moving up the ranks to ultimately serve as Director of New Product Implementation. She played an integral role in the company’s exponential growth and its eventual sale to McKesson in 2017 for 1.4 billion dollars. She also co-founded the non-profit foundation Go Get the World, which supports and empowers young women in college or early in their careers. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to create a network effect How to build a customer flywheel How to be your authentic self as CEO The fastest way to learn a new industry How to maintain quality during extreme growth Follow Amanda on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Genevieve Bellaire - Founder & CEO of Realworld: Transitioning from B2B to B2C, Launching a Zero to One Product, and Creating a Category 37:08

41 weeks ago37:08

37:08

Genevieve Bellaire is the Founder and CEO of Realworld. Realworld is your companion for navigating the journey of adulthood. They help you "get it together" by simplifying and streamlining your finances, health, career, and household. Prior to Realworld, Genevieve received her JD and MBA from Georgetown University and spent time at Goldman Sachs before ultimately launching Realword. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to build your MVP as a non-technical founder How to transition a B2B business to a B2C business How to create a marketing strategy for a zero to one product How to leverage your network for mentorship/advisory support The importance of utilizing AI to meet the consumer’s need for automation Follow Genevieve on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Brian Gregory - Co-Founder and CEO of FMX: Waiting to Raise Capital, CEO Transitions, and Going Outbound 43:02

42 weeks ago43:02

43:02

Brian Gregory is the Co-Founder and CEO of FMX. FMX is a leading provider of purpose-built, cloud-based solutions for Public Sector organizations. They help their customers transform facility, maintenance, and operations management in the communities where everyone learns, works, and lives. Before founding FMX, Brian was a partner at Dynamix Energy Services, managing energy savings projects that highlighted the critical role of proper facilities management, ultimately inspiring the creation of FMX. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to bring facts to a feelings fight The benefits of waiting to raise capital The benefits of a good capital partner beyond cash How to turn mistakes into confidence-building moments How to reduce reliance on paid leads and build an outbound engine Follow Brian on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

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Lindsay Fork - Founder & CEO of Luxe Brands: Turning Challenges into New Businesses, Filtering Opportunities, and EOS 41:38

43 weeks ago41:38

41:38

Lindsay Fork is the Founder and CEO of Luxe Brands. Luxe Brands is a bridal fashion company with multiline offerings + brands for all brides. From La Jeune Mariee Bridal Collection, a luxury designer and special-order boutique located in downtown Columbus, Ohio, to "luxury for less" with multiunit Luxe Redux, the company caters to serve all brides. Lindsay recently won the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for the East Central Region. In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of filtering new opportunities. How to retain talent through performance recognition. How to navigate the fear of letting go and delegating responsibilities. How to turn challenges in one business into new separate businesses. The impact of external accountability with the Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS). Follow Lindsay on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

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Chris Powell - CEO of Talmetrix: Red Pill Moments, Going from Corporate to Startup, and Channel Partnerships 38:08

44 weeks ago38:08

38:08

Chris Powell is the CEO of Talmetrix, an employee feedback and analytics company with a mission to humanize data to further workplace well-being. Leading up to Talmetrix, Chris built a career in human resources, including working as the Chief Human Resources Officer for Scripps Networks Interactive. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to capitlize on “red pill or blue pill” moments The strategic value of combining software with service The importance of identifying the right data points in human resources How to adjust from large corporate budgets to scrappy start-up margins How to identify and sync up with philosophically aligned channel partners Follow Chris on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Tsavo Knott - Co-Founder and CEO of Pieces: Building a Community, Trusting your Gut, and Company Events 34:17

45 weeks ago34:17

34:17

Tsavo is the CEO and Co-Founder of Pieces, a suite of on-device developer tools that boost productivity by helping you solve complex development tasks through a contextual understanding of your entire workflow. Tsavo was an entrepreneur from the jump, founding his first company, accent.ai, straight out of high school. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to balance gut instinct with market feedback The importance of elevating your EQ to put together top-tier teams How to reach developers in the sales process through building community How to transform organic adoption and early champions into massive growth The strategy behind company events and engaging the local community to build a positive company culture Follow Tsavo on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Exploring 10X Goals, Navigating Creativity, Content Optimization, and Delegation Strategies 33:08

46 weeks ago33:08

33:08

Callan Harrington is the founder of Flashgrowth, and today, he is joined by Sullivan Finlay, a comedian and content creator based in Chicago. Sullivan has built a successful following on social media through engaging, humorous, and relatable content. In this episode of "That Worked," Callan and Sullivan dive into topics ranging from emerging healthcare models to the future of local news, technology, and how both guests are leveraging strategic thinking for growth. In this episode, you’ll learn: A new comprehensive healthcare model. The opportunities for local news to modernize. How to optimize delegating to meet your 10x goals. How to forecast revenue of video content through brand deals. The impact of outsourcing core business functions for large vs small businesses Follow Sullivan on TikTok Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

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Katie Trauth Taylor - Co-Founder & CEO at Narratize AI: AI-Driven Storytelling, Scaling Innovation, and Creating Serendipity 44:39

47 weeks ago44:39

44:39

Katie Trauth Taylor is the CEO and Co-Founder of Narratize AI, a Generative AI storytelling platform for innovative enterprises. Before Narratize AI, Katie received her PhD in Rhetoric and Composition. During her PhD program, she launched her first startup, Untold Content. She is also the host of the Untold Stories of Innovation podcast. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to capitalize on referrals to outpace competitors. The most impactful incentives for brand ambassadors. How to build a connected network through hosting think tanks. How to identify and target the right investors as a woman in AI. Where AI is headed to help users learn and grow from tacit knowledge within their enterprise. Follow Katie on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

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Jane Mosbacher Morris - Founder and CEO of TO THE MARKET: Change Management, Using Capitalism to Make an Impact, and Thought Leadership 36:09

48 weeks ago36:09

36:09

Jane Mosbacher Morris is the CEO of To The Market. To The Market is a turn-key solution for ethical manufacturing and sourcing of apparel, accessories, and home goods. Before To The Market, Jane was the Director of Humanitarian Action for the McCain Institute and a Counterterrorism Advisor for the U.S. State Department. She is also the author of Buy The Change You Want to See, a book that explores how you can have a greater social impact through your everyday purchases. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to land clients through customer discovery work. How to address the hesitancy around the cost of change. The importance of buy-in when facilitating change management. How to educate and convince investors on the current state of the market. The benefits of developing a thought leadership reputation for accelerating growth. Follow Jane on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

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Brock Leonti - CEO & Co-Founder of Prescribe FIT: Turning Passion into a Business, Solving Staffing Challenges, and Managing Stress 28:01

49 weeks ago28:01

28:01

Brock Leonti is the CEO & Co-Founder of Prescribe FIT. Prescribe FIT is a full-service remote monitoring and lifestyle health coaching solution designed for orthopedic practices and patients. Prior to Prescribe FIT, Brock was the Founder of Larock Healthcare Academy, which was acquired by Beckfield College, and President & Founder of Time For Help Home Care. In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of using your PTO. A solution to industry-wide staffing shortages. How to identify when a passion can become a business. How to maintain long-term momentum in a hyper-growth stage. How to finesse your business model to be a “need to have” instead of a “nice to have.” Follow Brock on LinkedIn Connect Follow Callan on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter…

That Worked

1
Darrin Murriner - Co-Founder & CEO of Cloverleaf: Rejection, Resilience, and Building a Winning Team 33:53

50 weeks ago33:53