Most business wisdom warns against building your company on “rented land.” But when it comes to the software that runs your operations, what if renting provided the ultimate flexibility and financial advantage? In this episode, Chad King, VP at Ayoka Systems joins us to talk about how their model bucks convention. Ayoka builds full-custom software, but instead of selling the code outright, they offer it as a service, or rental. Chad explains how this type of model, born out of a pivot during the COVID pandemic, saves clients time and money by using common software “components” while still custom-building the unique parts.Join us as we discuss:[6:44] Identifying the need before trying to solve it and commander’s intent[12:55] Tips for addressing change management when new pain points arise[17:29] Custom QOL software and why you should audit before automating To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Are you leading a company that’s growing faster than its culture can keep up? In this episode, Fractional COO Tim Peterson flips the script on leadership, arguing that culture doesn’t necessarily start at the top. He shares how successful organizations evolve by listening to their people, embracing change, and keeping curiosity alive even through chaos. From 130-year-old global brands to the unpredictable energy of LinkedIn debates, Tim explores how openness and authenticity fuel growth that lasts. He reminds us that the best leaders aren’t afraid to challenge bad ideas, spark real conversations, and let culture rise from every level of the business.Join us as we discuss: [6:46] Lessons from Hobart on staying adaptable after 130 years[11:54] How to overcome fear of change while preserving company identity[21:16] Tim’s philosophy behind fighting idiots on LinkedInCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Liam Darmody - LinkedIn To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode, we dive into the murky world of sales pipeline health with fractional executive and founder coach Lindsay Rios. Lindsay reveals how a "poopy pipeline" of misaligned sales data and bad habits can tank company growth and sabotage accurate forecasting. From exposing the first red flags to dispelling common founder myths, she provides a masterclass on how to create intentional strategies for your go-to-market team. Learn why it’s a cultural issue, not just a sales problem, and discover the practical steps needed to build a robust, people-first B2B business.Join us as we discuss:[1:34] How the poopy sales pipeline and misalignment tanks company growth[9:01] Sorting qualified leads across your pipeline’s appropriate buckets[16:52] Why fixing your company’s sales pipeline starts with a culture shiftTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Long sales cycles can be a tough climb. But if you know how to navigate them, they can become your company’s biggest wins. In this episode, Sarah Willis, Founder and CEO at ESI Partners, shares practical strategies for marketing into complex B2B environments, like where deals move slowly, buyer groups are huge, and decision makers span departments (or continents). She explains how to keep messaging aligned across stakeholders, why understanding the full buyer journey matters more than ever, and how a well-timed campaign can actually speed things up. If you're selling into industries that don’t change fast, this episode will give you tools to market smarter, close faster, and win more often.Join us as we discuss:[4:53] Using data to justify the ROI of your long-term sales cycles[8:54] Audience segmentation and marketing to large legacy businesses[14:27] Ensuring that all of your departments are aligned throughout the sales process[21:06] How to ask for permission to deepen client engagementTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
A lot of stress comes with making decisions as a leader, but stress shouldn’t be making decisions for you. Dave Gieselman, Founder of Limitless Flow Breathwork, coaches business leaders on recognizing when they are overcome by fear, regaining their composure, and cultivating the right mentality for their company. In this episode, Dave shares his process for mastering stress and describes how changing your mentality can allow your business to reach the next step. Join us as we discuss: [7:36] How business owners can change their mentality to match their goals[11:30] The largest mental mistake new business owners make[16:42] Breaking the illusions that stress creates around problemsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Listener, please allow Dave to invite you to be his guest for a Limitless Flow Breathwork session. It’s a powerful way to reset, quiet the noise, release stress, and tap into clarity and flow.Free for you—use code B2BBIZCLASSRegister here:https://www.ConnectToFlow.com/breathworkTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode of B2B Business Class, Kevin Turner, Managing Partner at TNT Brand Strategist, breaks down why LinkedIn positioning is more than just a content strategy and how to show up consistently and credibly in your market. He explains how to create a profile and post strategy that builds affinity with decision-makers, even before the first meeting. From navigating the latest algorithm changes to crafting a page that resonates beyond the pitch, this episode is packed with actionable insight for anyone looking to turn LinkedIn into a pipeline engine.Join us as we discuss:[6:44] The Uberfication of social media platforms and digital relationships[14:37] LinkedIn’s constant evolution and debunking update rollout myths[31:28] How the algorithm pushes preferred content and the rise of video Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:LinkedIn Sales NavigatorTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode, we fly into the future of AI with tech pioneer and marketing strategist Zeev Wexler, Founder of Wexler Marketing and CEO of Viacry. Zeev shares the turning points that made him realize AI wasn’t just a flashy tool, but a seismic shift in how we work and live. He explains why AI is like a digital asteroid hitting Earth, and what it means to be one of the dinosaurs or one of the survivors.Join us as we discuss:[5:12] Why “mediocre is free” today and how to rise above the AI noise[10:46] Agentic AI and using it to scale your voice and persona[19:37] AI hallucinations and why they can be creative gold or dangerous fictionTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Great talent can be found nearly anywhere in the world, but making sure that talent fits your business and is able to function and benefit the organization can sometimes be a tall order.In this episode, I sit down with Clarisse Viduya, CEO & Principal Strategist at Essiralc Marketing, as we discuss the finer points of working with remote talent from overseas and reframe my own experiences with outsourcing, by arming both myself, and you — the listener — with the tools to understand how to work better across national and cultural boundaries. Join us as we discuss:[2:26] Cultural factors that hinder communication when outsourcing remote work[10:53] Outsourcing payscales and how to engage with local economies[15:50] How to decide between hiring a “learner” versus hiring an expertTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
What happens when a top sales leader realizes their next big entrepreneurial opportunity isn’t outside their current company — but within it? In this episode, Robb sits down with Steve Wallace, President of MaverickApp, to discuss his journey from employee to business owner. Steve shares what made him take the leap, how he reshaped his career without walking away from a great company, and why sales professionals struggle with consistency more than prospecting. If you’re thinking about betting on yourself and stepping into leadership, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.Join us as we discuss:[1:29] Career pivots and entrepreneurial moves within your current company[9:58] Respecting a legacy company’s vision while building a roadmap for change[14:20] The challenges and rewards of taking on a new leadership roleTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
LinkedIn is more than just a digital resume — it’s a powerful tool for networking, sales, and business development. But are you really using it to its full potential? I sat down with LinkedIn wiz Liam Darmody, Founder of Liam's Brand Stand, to uncover the hidden advantages of Sales Navigator, how to escape LinkedIn’s algorithm-driven echo chamber, and why strategic commenting can be more valuable than cold outreach. Plus, we discuss how to tell when it’s time to invest in LinkedIn’s premium features and how to use them efficiently.Tune in to hear more about how to maximize LinkedIn for real business results. Join us as we discuss:[1:35] How LinkedIn’s Sales Navigator can amplify your network[3:56] The wizardry behind LinkedIn’s algorithm and how to beat it[9:03] Signs that you should consider signing up for Sales NavigatorCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:LinkedIn Sales NavigatorTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode, we sit down with Kate Volman, bestselling author and CEO of Floyd Consulting, to explore the innovative concept of “dream managers.” Kate explains how supporting employees’ personal and professional dreams doesn’t just enhance company culture — it also drives employee engagement and improves the bottom line. With real-world examples from industries like trucking and the trades, Kate unpacks how dream management fosters higher productivity, job satisfaction, and a resilient workplace. Join us as we discuss: [08:45] How to add dream management to your business culture[17:27] A success story and how dream management improves the bottom line[30:25] The quadrant approach to employee evaluationCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:The Dream Manager by Matthew KellyThe Culture Solution by Matthew KellyThe Obstacle is the Way by Ryan HolidayLead with Culture PodcastKate Volman on YoutubeHelp your B2B career take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode, we welcome Alexander Shyshko, CRO at Outbound Funnel, to discuss the importance of creating customer ecosystems in B2B sales. Alex emphasizes the importance of genuine outreach, understanding customer needs, and building strategic partnerships.Our conversation covers key strategies for building and maintaining partnerships, the role of customer ecosystems in modern sales, and the balance between marketing and sales efforts. This episode offers valuable advice for anyone looking to enhance their sales and partnership strategies in the B2B space.Join us as we discuss:[7:39] The evolution of B2B partnerships[18:55] Building a partner ecosystem[26:00] Advice on joining rocket ship or unicorn companiesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Outbound FunnelOutreachGongSales LoftIntracomJocko Willink and Leif Babin - Extreme OwnershipJocko Willink - Discipline Equals FreedomHelp your B2B career take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode, we’re talking with Max Traylor with Max Traylor LLC.He’s the “consultant’s consultant,” and he’s here to drop some wisdom about your value in the B2B business space.We explore your most valuable contribution as a consultant, why you should charge for it, and why your services are like bumpers in a bowling alley. And this might surprise you, but he also tells us why not all money is good money.Learn about opportunity costs and why you should be niching down in this episode of B2B Business Class.Join us as we discuss:[8:46] Why giving away the plan is the wrong thing to do [17:46] Why holding back from your client is good [24:42] Being intentional with your sales pipeline [36:06] PLUS — the unexpected power of beerCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Full PDF of Max Traylor’s ‘Agency Survival Guide’Max Traylor’s ‘The Consultant Survival Guide’ Help your B2B career take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
AI is here to stay, and it can help your organization thrive. In a world full of SaaS Bros, figuring out effective sales tactics can be confusing. Today, we’re talking with Candyce Edelen, President and CEO of Propel Growth. She’s here to tell us about sales tactics that work — and those that don’t. Learn about how to connect with prospects, build trust, and create profitable sales relationships. And we promise it doesn’t have anything to do with sending out thousands of “pitch slappy” emails. In this episode, we explore the human side of sales. Join us as we discuss: If the SaaS Bros kill sales [8:22]Why plug-and-play tactics don’t work [16:18]What DOES work in sales [22:30]Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:LavenderOutreachGongHelp your B2B career take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
How many times have you attended a virtual meeting, seminar, or training session and found yourself checking other tabs before the speaker even got to their main point?As a presenter, you want to ensure your audience is engaged, entertained, and interested in what you have to say next.It’s all about facilitating a smooth learning experience that is not only stimulating but leaves individuals with a desire to find out more.That’s why we’re getting our conversation started with Bernie Desantis III, the President and CEO of Insignia Training Partners. After leaving corporate, America Bernie set out on a mission to help the world present better in the virtual space.In this episode, we explore the human side of virtual presentations.Join us as we discuss: [4:50] Fighting for attention in a multi-screen environment[9:22] Making onboarding and continuing education engaging[19:43] Why a presentation is about more than speaking abilityCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Lead Like a Pro by Eric GirardInsignia Training PartnersHelp your B2B career take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
We’re unblurring the Zoom background on this week's episode of B2B business class. In a digital-first environment, how can you get the most engagement and authenticity out of your product?Cut through the noise of AI personalization and actually make things personal for your consumers.We’re talking to Josh Fedie, the Founder & CEO of SalesReach. Originally crafting websites using self-taught coding knowledge, Josh has rolled with the ebbs and flows of the sales industry, eventually creating his own platform to sell in a more personalized way. Join us as we discuss: [13:50] Putting a platform together[24:23] Personalization vs Personal[41:10] Why your friends aren’t your customersCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:SalesReach HiredHelp your B2B career take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Crafting a positive company culture is not something that just happens overnight.If you take away money and you’re left scratching your head to define your business culture, then was there any in the first place?It’s time to take care of planning your company’s culture playbook.And it starts from the top down.That’s why we’re thrilled to be joined by Gaby Grinberg, CEO (Chief Experience Officer) of Proofpoint Marketing. After taking a terrible life experience and channeling it into the positive culture at Proofpoint, Gaby shares how others can do the same.In this episode, we delve into the essentials of a healthy B2B culture.Join us as we discuss:[11:34] Proofpoint’s culture guidebook[17:19] When life throws you a curveball[33:05] Protecting your company culture from a-holesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Proofpoint’s 5-step hiring processThe Proofpoint culture guide bookHelp your B2B career take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
If people in the B2B space want to create a presence and own a space, they should consider being active on LinkedIn. Now more than ever, the social media platform has evolved into an ecosystem that enables content creators to not only create insightful content but also actively build a community. For Walter Gainer II, LinkedIn has been much more than just a social media platform: It has helped him to amplify his message about creating better content and advocating for diversity and inclusion to a global audience. How can people get started on LinkedIn? How can they keep the broader global audience in mind when producing content? Join us on this latest flight as Walter shares his experience with us and leaves you with actionable tips as well as incredible anecdotes. Join us as we discuss: - What the LinkedIn Creator Accelerator Program is about [05:30] - Why Walter looks at social media and marketing like a video game [14:18] - How LinkedIn and businesses can be more inclusive [25:00] Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: - Urban One, Inc. - Boss Locks Podcast Help your B2B Career Take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Many in the B2B marketing space tend to overlook the strategic importance of telling a good story. As tempting as it can be, it’s best to avoid focusing too much on product features or services. It should be more about connecting with companies, addressing some important questions or challenges that your target audience has, and bringing a logical approach to the story. How can B2B marketers tell better stories? How can they find those crucial insights and make the customer the hero of the story? Join us as we take flight with Chris Rapozo to discuss how B2B marketers can leverage storytelling to build trust and relationships. During our flight, Chris talks about the different types of storytelling and gives us some actionable tips to help bridge the trust gap. Join us as we discuss: - How B2B marketers can tell better stories [01:18] - How to successfully navigate storytelling for B2B [04:42] - The difference between B2B and enterprise storytelling [07:13] - How a good content management system can help a B2B business [12:21] Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: - Hannon Hill - Education Marketing Leader Podcast Help your B2B Career Take off. Find B2B Business Class on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Trying to be everything and selling to everyone is a path that any business should avoid at all costs. In fact, the more you are able to niche down and be an authority in your space, the more successful you will be. It’s also about being vulnerable, practicing empathy, and creating trust with your expertise so that you can build relationships effectively. How can B2B marketers do this? How can they nail that niche? How can AI enable them to do their work more efficiently with the same resources? Join us as we take off with Bart Caylor to talk about how B2B marketers can scale better by identifying that niche to focus on. During our flight, Bart provides some actionable B2B marketing advice, shares his predictions for LinkedIn, and talks to us about how to get it right in B2B content marketing. Join us as we discuss: - Actionable B2B marketing advice [02:51] - How to become an authority in your space [10:15] - Predictions for the LinkedIn creator economy in 2024 [14:39] - What B2B content techniques work and don’t work [21:02] Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: - Caylor Solutions - The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for B2B Business Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.