SaaSy as Fuck Podcast

Episode SummaryJon and Alex are joined by Stuart, the founder of SassyDB, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey. Stuart shares his transition from the world of screen printing to founding a SaaS company. He details the challenges of being a solo founder and the emotional impact of startup life. They explore the critical role of user feedback in guiding product development and feature prioritization. Stuart explains how SassyDB uses AI for data filtering. The conversation covers effective cold email strategies, common mistakes, and the importance of targeting the right audience.Key topics* The transition from a screen printing business to a SaaS model * The evolution of screen printing technology Challenges of being a solo founder and bootstrapping* The emotional impact of entrepreneurship on founders* Prioritising a development roadmap based on user feedback* Utilising AI for data filtering in SaaS Best practices and common mistakes in cold emailing* The importance of targeting the right decision-makers Lessons learned from past startup experiences* Testing AI vs. human copywriting for email campaignsKey takeawaysTransitioning from a hands-on business like screen printing to SaaS can be a strategic move to improve work-life balance. The emotional health of a founder is intrinsically tied to the successes and failures of their entrepreneurial ventures. User feedback is the most crucial resource for prioritizing features and building a product people actually need. Effective cold emailing requires a proper technical infrastructure to ensure deliverability and avoid spam filters. Success in outreach hinges on targeting the correct decision-makers within an organization. Valuable lessons from past startup failures can prevent wasting resources on unvalidated ideas in future projects. AI can be a powerful tool for intelligently filtering and managing data for SaaS companies. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a critical, ongoing challenge for self-employed individuals.Keywordsscreen printing, SaaS, SassyDB, entrepreneurship, cold email, AI, user feedback, startup lessons, emotional impact, targeting, solo founder, bootstrapping This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Summary:* Jon and Alex speak with James about cold email outreach.* James explains Hunter’s analysis of over 11 million emails sent in 2024.* He shows why 61 % of decision makers still prefer email over other channels.* He reveals that 95 % of cold emails land in spam.* They cover why open rates mislead and why reply rates matter more.* They discuss targeting small lists and deep personalization.* James shares how new AI tools can scale unique messages at volume.Key Topics Discussed:* Hunter’s 2024 cold email data analysis* Decision makers’ channel preferences* Spam rates and deliverability issues* Vanity metrics vs. reply rates* Ideal campaign size and targeting* True personalisation vs. mail merge* Cold outreach as part of a multi-channel strategy* AI writing assistants for personalized scaleKey Takeaways:* 61 % of decision makers rank cold email as their top outreach channel* 95 % of cold emails are classified as spam* Open rates can be inflated by bots and spam filters* Reply rate drives real conversations and pipeline* Smaller, targeted lists (under 50) yield higher reply rates* Personalisation means relevant research, not just name merges* Cold outreach should join paid ads, events, and social* AI tools can help research and craft unique emails at scaleMemorable Quotes (Sound Bites):* “Cold email was number one.”* “95 % of cold emails that get sent are spam.”* “Open rates are a vanity metric.”* “Less is more.”* “That’s creepy as f**k.”* “It’s a conversation, not a command.”Chapters:00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome02:47 – Why Cold Email Still Works05:23 – Spam Rates and Deliverability07:33 – Vanity Metrics vs. Reply Rates11:11 – Targeting Small Lists for Higher Replies14:27 – True Personalization Defined19:06 – Cold Outreach in a Multi-Channel Mix26:52 – AI Writing Assistants for Scale28:28 – Messaging Madness: What Is It and Why It Matters29:27 – How We Ran the “Super 16” Cold-Email Tournament35:51 – Key Lessons from Messaging Madness42:04 – Cold-Email Quiz: Test Your Hunter 2025 KnowledgeKeywords:cold email, outreach, decision makers, spam rate, reply rate, personalisation, targeting, AI email assistant, marketing strategy, Hunter report This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Summary: In this episode of SaaSy as F**k, Jon McGreevey interviews Anthony Eden, founder and CEO of DNSimple. They discuss Anthony's journey from being a CTO to starting his own company, the challenges of running a tech business, and the importance of solving real problems. Anthony shares insights on customer acquisition, ethical business practices, and the significance of maintaining commitments in business. The conversation highlights the evolution of strategies for growth and the importance of validation through customer payments. Jon and Anthony also delve into the importance of integrity in business, the challenges of standing out in a competitive tech landscape, and the lessons learned from founding DNSimple. They explore the role of creativity in making complex topics accessible and engaging, as well as Anthony's vision for the future of DNSimple, including innovations in enterprise offerings and the cautious integration of generative AI.Key Topics Discussed:* Transition from CTO to Founder* Building a Business by Solving Real Problems* Challenges of Being a CEO in the Tech Industry* Initial Growth and Customer Acquisition Strategies* Evolving Approaches to Customer Engagement* Importance of Ethical Business Practices and Integrity* Honoring Commitments in Business* Bootstrapping and Business Control* Navigating Competition in the Tech Landscape* Lessons Learned from Founding and Running DNSimple* The Role of Creativity in Making Complex Tech Topics Accessible* Future Plans and Innovations for DNSimple (Enterprise Offerings, Generative AI)* The Significance of Customer Feedback for Product DevelopmentKey Takeaways:* Transitioning from a technical role (CTO) to a founder can be driven by the desire to solve a personal or observed problem.* Successful businesses are often built on understanding and addressing existing problems that customers need solutions for.* Initial customer acquisition can effectively leverage existing networks and personal audiences.* True business validation often comes when customers are willing to pay for the offered services or products.* Maintaining ethical practices and integrity is crucial for building long-term business success and trust.* Commitments made to customers and partners should be honored to foster reliability and a strong reputation.* Bootstrapping a business allows for greater control over decisions and direction, though it may present its own set of challenges.* Listening attentively to customer feedback is essential for guiding product development and sustainable growth.* Standing out in a crowded and competitive market requires clear differentiation and value proposition.* Mistakes are an inevitable part of the entrepreneurial journey and offer valuable learning opportunities.* Creativity plays a key role in communicating complex topics in an engaging and understandable manner.* Approaching new technologies like generative AI should be done cautiously, focusing on genuine value and ethical implications.* Continuously striving to improve customer service is a key goal for sustainable business.Chapters:* 00:00 - Introduction and Armadillo Anecdotes* 02:57 - Transitioning from CTO to Founder* 06:10 - Building a Business from a Problem* 08:54 - The Challenges of Being a CEO* 11:59 - Initial Growth and Customer Acquisition* 15:00 - Evolving Strategies for Customer Engagement* 17:54 - Ethical Business Practices and Growth* 23:08 - Integrity and Ethical Business Practices* 27:01 - Navigating Competition in the Tech Industry* 31:50 - Lessons Learned from Founding a Business* 35:24 - The Role of Creativity in Business* 39:15 - Future Plans and Innovations for DNSimpleKeywords:SaaS, entrepreneurship, DNS, customer acquisition, business growth, ethical practices, founder journey, technology, startup, marketing, integrity, ethical business, competition, tech industry, lessons learned, creativity, future plans, DnSimple, generative AI, customer service. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Summary:Jon and Alex engage in a compelling conversation with Alefiya Khoraki, co-founder of Nomad's Marketing, exploring the transformative power of conversion quiz funnels. Alefiya distinguishes between conventional personality quizzes and strategic conversion quizzes designed specifically for sales. Highlighting her innovative approach, she shares insights from her extensive research and explains how conversion quizzes can serve as scalable sales conversations. The discussion covers how quizzes effectively diagnose customer needs, overcome objections, and create personalized marketing pathways. Alefiya emphasizes strategic partnerships and targeted outreach, sharing her successful experience of scaling her business without initially using a website. Through real-world examples, she underscores the significant upfront effort quizzes require, balanced by substantial long-term marketing gains.Key Topics Discussed:* Understanding Conversion Quiz Funnels* Differences Between Personality and Sales Quizzes* Strategic Use of Quizzes in Marketing* Importance of Diagnosing Customer Pain Points* Crafting Targeted and Personalized Quiz Experiences* Role of Strategic Partnerships in Marketing* Effective Use of LinkedIn for Business Growth* Challenges and Pitfalls in Creating Effective Quizzes* Approaching High-Value Clients Strategically* Scaling a Business without Traditional Marketing AssetsKey Takeaways:* Conversion quizzes act as scalable sales conversations, distinct from typical list-building quizzes.* Effective quizzes require deep understanding of customer pain points and clear sales objectives* Segmenting quiz participants through targeted questions significantly boosts conversion rates.* Strategic partnerships can amplify outreach, providing substantial lead generation and sales opportunities.* Early-stage businesses benefit from flexibility and experimentation without heavy reliance on traditional marketing assets.* Clear positioning and messaging form the foundation of successful marketing strategies.* Businesses with larger deal sizes particularly benefit from targeted, strategic quiz funnels.* Overcoming rejections and leveraging key client successes can rapidly accelerate business growth.Memorable Quotes (Sound Bites):* "Conversion quizzes are sales calls at scale."* "You don’t need a fancy website; you need effective positioning and a good Google Doc."* "Quizzes should address symptoms first, not products."* "Strategic partnerships can replace the need for extensive cold outreach."* "I'm adamant about pursuing the big clients—even if it means facing many rejections."* "Experimentation drives genuine innovation in marketing."Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Conversion Quiz Funnels 05:01 - How Conversion Quizzes Differ from Traditional Quizzes 10:12 - Crafting Strategic Quizzes for Sales 15:11 - Diagnosing Customer Needs through Quizzes 20:09 - Personalizing the Quiz Experience 24:58 - Leveraging Strategic Partnerships 27:50 - Building a Marketing Pipeline with LinkedIn 31:37 - Importance of Clear Positioning 33:37 - Strategic Approach to High-Value Clients 39:25 - Scaling Business without a WebsiteKeywords:Conversion quizzes, marketing strategy, quiz funnels, sales conversion, targeted marketing, customer segmentation, strategic partnerships, LinkedIn marketing, sales pipeline, business growth, personalization in marketing, diagnosing customer needs, experimentation in marketing, high-value client strategy, strategic outreach. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Summary:In this conversation, pricing expert Garrick Van Buren discusses the intricacies of pricing strategies in the SaaS industry. He emphasises the importance of understanding customer value, common pricing mistakes, and the necessity of conducting thorough customer research. The discussion also highlights the challenges founders face in pricing their products and the significance of validating market demand before product development. Garrick advocates for starting with a service-based approach to better understand customer needs and pricing dynamics. In this conversation, Garrick, Alex and Jon delve into the complexities of pricing strategies, particularly in the SaaS industry. They discuss the significance of niche pricing, the importance of understanding customer perception, and the psychological aspects of pricing. The conversation also touches on the value of expertise in pricing decisions and the necessity of experimentation in pricing models to adapt to market demands.Key Topics Discussed:Importance of understanding customer value in SaaS pricingCommon pricing mistakes made by SaaS foundersConducting effective customer research for pricingChallenges founders face in product pricingValidating market demand before product developmentUsing a service-based approach to understand customer needs and pricingThe significance of niche pricing strategiesUnderstanding customer perception and psychological aspects of pricingThe role of expertise in pricing decisionsExperimentation with pricing models for market adaptationKey Takeaways:Pricing is often misaligned with the value provided.Founders should conduct customer research early on.Many SaaS companies underprice their products.Understanding customer pain points is crucial for pricing.Pricing should reflect the problem's significance.Service businesses can validate ideas before product development.Conversations with potential customers are essential.Avoid defining competitive sets too narrowly.Pricing mistakes can lead to credibility issues.Founders need to embrace the discomfort of pricing discussions.You don't need everyone to pay your price, just a few.Clear distinctive niches can enhance perceived value.People are intelligent enough to see value beyond niche targeting.Pricing should reflect the value provided to the customer.Psychological pricing can significantly influence customer decisions.Experimentation in pricing models is crucial for success.Understanding customer urgency can guide pricing strategies.Niche products can attract a broader audience than expected.Expertise in a specific area can justify higher pricing.Transparency in pricing builds trust with customers.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Pricing Challenges05:57 - Common Pricing Mistakes in SaaS11:57 - Finding Your Market and Customers18:01 - Navigating the Current SaaS Market24:02 - The Importance of Niche Pricing30:04 - The Value of Expertise in Pricing39:58 - Experimentation in Pricing ModelsKeywords: SaaS, pricing strategy, value proposition, customer research, pricing mistakes, market validation, service business, product development, pricing credibility, founder challenges, niche pricing, customer perception, psychological pricing, SaaS pricing, pricing strategies, value perception, pricing models, B2B SaaS, pricing experimentation, market segmentation This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Summary:In this episode of 'SaaSy as F**k', hosts Jon McGreevy and Alex Radford welcome Kamil Rextin, founder of 42 Agency. The conversation explores Kamil's humorous approach to agency culture, his journey from a writer in Pakistan to a successful agency founder in Canada, and the evolution of his agency's focus from SaaS to exploring new markets. They discuss the importance of sales in marketing, the challenges of e-commerce, and the significance of marketing operations in ensuring effective business processes. In this engaging conversation, Kamil Rextin discusses the complexities of business processes, the importance of aligning sales and marketing, and the common pitfalls in audience engagement. He shares valuable lessons learned from his experiences in the marketing industry, emphasizing the need for focus and clarity in service offerings. The episode concludes with a light-hearted quiz segment, showcasing the hosts' camaraderie and humor.Key Topics Discussed:* Humor in agency culture* Kamil Rextin's career journey (writer to agency founder)* Evolution of 42 Agency's market focus (SaaS to new markets)* Importance of sales skills for agency founders* Challenges of e-commerce marketing vs. SaaS marketing* Significance of marketing operations (MOPs)* Business process complexities* Aligning sales and marketing* Common pitfalls in audience engagement* Lessons learned from marketing industry experiences* Need for focus and clarity in service offerings* Marketing debt in high-growth companies* Importance of CRM* Quality vs. quantity of audience* Learning from business mistakes* Benefits of service specializationKey Takeaways:* Kamil enjoys humor in his agency's culture.* The agency's name is a nod to 'Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'.* Kamil's journey reflects the challenges of transitioning careers.* Sales skills are crucial for agency founders.* E-commerce marketing presents unique challenges compared to SaaS.* Marketing operations are essential for effective team collaboration.* Kamil emphasizes the importance of having a defined process.* The agency is exploring markets beyond SaaS.* Kamil's agency focuses on combining performance and creative marketing.* Building trust with clients takes time and consistent effort.* High growth companies often have 'marketing debt'.* A CRM is essential for business operations.* Aligning sales and marketing is crucial for success.* Audience engagement does not always translate to customer acquisition.* Building an audience on social media can be misleading.* The quality of the audience is more important than quantity.* Mistakes in business can lead to valuable lessons.* Specialization in services can lead to better hiring opportunities.* Diluted focus can confuse customers about service offerings.* Learning from past mistakes is essential for growth.Chapters:* Introduction and Guest Background* The Humor in Marketing and Agency Culture* Kamil's Journey: From Writer to Agency Founder* The Evolution of Kamil's Agency and Market Focus* Sales vs. Marketing: The Shift in Agency Dynamics* Exploring New Markets Beyond SaaS* The Challenges and Joys of E-commerce Marketing* Understanding Marketing Operations (MOPs) and Its Importance* Understanding Business Process Challenges* The Importance of Audience in Marketing* Lessons Learned from Business Mistakes* Fun and Games: The Quiz SegmentKeywords: marketing, agency, humor, entrepreneurship, sales, SaaS, e-commerce, marketing operations, Kamil Rextin, podcast, business process, marketing technology, audience engagement, marketing mistakes, agency growth, demand generation, lessons learned, marketing strategies, CRM, sales alignment This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Sassy as F**k, Jon McGreevy speaks with Federico Jorge, founder of Stack Against, about his journey in copywriting, the evolution of comparison pages, and their significance in the SaaS industry. Federico shares insights on the benefits of comparison pages for SEO and lead generation, as well as the challenges of using AI in copywriting. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding market needs and the value of human expertise in creating effective marketing content. In this conversation, Jon McGreevy and Federico Jorge delve into the intricacies of creating effective product comparison pages. They discuss the importance of understanding products deeply, the limitations of AI in providing nuanced insights, and the necessity of human perspective in competitive intelligence. Federico shares his process for developing comparison pages, emphasizing the need for thorough research and collaboration with product marketing teams. He also offers practical advice for indie developers on how to approach comparison pages without a large budget, focusing on storytelling and validating their unique value propositions.Key Topics Discussed* Federico Jorge's copywriting journey* Evolution and significance of comparison pages in SaaS* Benefits of comparison pages for SEO and lead generation* Challenges and limitations of AI in copywriting* Importance of human expertise and perspective in marketing content* Understanding market needs and product positioning* Competitive intelligence and collaboration with product marketing teams* Process for developing effective comparison pages* Advice for indie developers on creating comparison pages* Validating unique value propositions* Key Takeaways:* Federico's journey in copywriting spans nearly 20 years.* Narrowing down to a niche can provide flexibility and opportunities.* Comparison pages can be a standalone business model.* SEO plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of comparison pages.* Comparison pages target users who are ready to buy.* AI can assist in research but lacks accuracy and reliability.* Human expertise is essential for validating information in copywriting.* Comparison pages help in capturing hot demand from potential customers.* Building authority early on is vital for new SaaS products.* Experimentation is key in finding what works in marketing.* Start with a deep understanding of products and their positioning.* AI has limitations in providing accurate and nuanced product comparisons.* Human perspective is crucial in identifying unique selling points.* Competitive intelligence involves gathering insights from various internal teams.* The process of creating comparison pages should be collaborative and thorough.* Indie developers can start with simple comparison narratives without extensive resources.* Focus on the big story rather than detailed feature comparisons.* Acknowledging competitors can be a part of effective positioning.* Creating a strong brief can streamline the copywriting process.* Iterate and validate your product's unique angle through customer feedback.Chapters00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction02:02 - Federico's Journey in Copywriting06:08 - The Evolution of Comparison Pages14:15 - The Value of Comparison Pages for SaaS16:24 - Benefits of Comparison Pages25:38 - AI vs. Human Copywriting30:10 - Understanding Product Comparisons31:40 - The Limitations of AI in Product Analysis33:23 - The Importance of Human Perspective35:02 - The Role of Competitive Intelligence37:50 - The Process of Creating Comparison Pages51:10 - Advice for Indie Developers on Comparison PagesKeywordscopywriting, SaaS, comparison pages, SEO, growth hacking, marketing, AI, business strategy, digital marketing, content creation, product comparisons, AI limitations, human perspective, competitive intelligence, SaaS marketing, product positioning, customer insights, copywriting process, indie developers This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Title: The Strategic Power of a Fractional CMOEpisode Summary: In this engaging conversation, Jon, Alex, and Marc delve into the critical role of a fractional CMO in today's marketing landscape. Marc Bitanga clarifies the distinct position of a fractional CMO compared to traditional consultants and agencies, emphasizing its strategic, executive-level nature. The discussion underscores the necessity of aligning with core business objectives, effectively engaging in C-level dialogues, and mastering the delicate balance between creative initiatives and overarching strategic direction. Marc offers valuable perspectives on guiding brand evolution and the importance of educating clients on impactful marketing methodologies. He elaborates on his data-centric approach to marketing, highlighting the characteristics of companies best positioned for significant marketing success. Through anecdotes, Marc illustrates the pitfalls of blindly replicating competitors and stresses the importance of understanding the specific context of each marketing effort. He also reflects on his career transition from IT to marketing, detailing the skills acquired and the challenges encountered within the evolving fractional CMO space.Key Topics Discussed:* The Role and Definition of a Fractional CMO Distinction Between Fractional CMOs Consultants* Agencies Strategic Marketing* Leadership Navigating C-Level Business Conversations* Balancing Creativity and Strategic Direction in Marketing Guiding Brand Evolution* Differentiation Educating Clients on Effective Marketing Strategies* Data-Driven Marketing Approaches* Identifying Ideal Companies for Marketing Impact* Avoiding the Pitfalls of Copying Competitors* Understanding Marketing Context* Career Transition to Marketing Leadership* Challenges in the Fractional CMO LandscapeKey Takeaways: A fractional CMO operates at a C-level, providing strategic direction and integrating with the executive team. Their role is distinct from consultants and agencies due to this integrated, executive focus. Building the internal marketing team's capabilities is a key function. C-level executives prioritize quantifiable revenue and growth metrics over marketing jargon. Effective communication tailored to executive priorities is crucial for credibility. Clearly defined expectations with clients are vital for successful engagements. Fractional CMOs must skillfully balance strategic planning with practical execution. A deep understanding of the business's overall direction is fundamental for effective marketing strategy. Guiding brand evolution requires sensitivity to the founder's original vision. C-level creativity is more about strategic decision-making than just creative execution, requiring room to prove the approach. Copying competitor strategies without understanding their specific context is often ineffective. Marketing's primary goal should be driving tangible revenue and growth. Data is indispensable for making informed and impactful marketing decisions. Ideal companies for significant marketing impact are typically data-driven. SaaS and direct-to-consumer business models are often well-suited for demonstrating marketing impact. Feedback on marketing effectiveness can come in various forms and requires interpretation. Developing a comprehensive marketing "tool belt" is essential for leadership. The fractional CMO landscape faces challenges from inexperienced practitioners diluting the field. An authentic online presence serves as a modern professional resume.Memorable Quotes (Sound Bites):* "What is a fractional CMO?"* "You're not taking the directive."* "You can't out Apple Apple."* "Give me a little bit of wiggle room."* "I had a pretty unique journey."* "I built out my marketing tool belt."* "It's frustrating at a branding level."* "You can't hide in the internet."Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Fractional CMO05:01 - Understanding the Role of a Fractional CMO10:12 - Strategic Insights and Business Conversations15:11 - Navigating Creative Challenges at the C-Level20:09 - Guiding Brand Evolution and Differentiation21:57 - The Tip of the Spear Approach24:58 - Ideal Company Characteristics for Marketing Impact27:50 - The Importance of Data in Marketing Decisions31:37 - Using Data to Guide Marketing Strategies33:37 - The Journey to Becoming a Fractional CMO39:25 - Navigating the Landscape of Fractional CMOsKeywords: Fractional CMO, marketing strategy, business growth, consulting, brand evolution, C-level conversations, marketing leadership, creative challenges, business strategy, marketing insights, marketing, data-driven decisions, company growth, marketing strategies, digital marketing, SaaS, consumer behavior, marketing impact, business models. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode 5 part 2 Show NotesEpisode Title : LinkedIn Sagas, SaaS Pricing & The AI Revolution(Alternative Titles):* From Small Talk to Big Issues: The Podcast Evolution* Navigating LinkedIn: Personal Stories and Insights* SaaS Deep Dive: Pricing, Targeting, and AI* AI, Creativity, and the Future of ExpertiseHosts: Alex Radford & Jon McGreeveyEpisode Summary: Continuing their conversation, Alex and Jon dive into personal anecdotes, starting with Jon's challenging experience navigating LinkedIn's policies after a legal name change. This sparks discussions on platform frustrations and humorous customer service interactions. They touch upon the nature of creative projects before shifting focus to the SaaS industry, offering sharp critiques of predatory pricing models and exploring effective market targeting strategies. The final segment delves deep into the impact of AI, particularly ChatGPT, on SaaS marketing, content creation, and software development. They discuss prompt engineering, the limitations of AI's creativity, the illusion of democratization, and the enduring necessity of human expertise and critical thinking in an increasingly automated world.Key Topics Discussed:* Personal Branding Challenges (Name Change, LinkedIn)* Navigating Social Media Platform Policies (LinkedIn)* Personal Anecdotes & Humor* Customer Service Experiences* Creative Projects & Artistic Expression* SaaS Pricing Models & Industry Standards Critiques Ref: For-Profit (Creative) SoftwareYouTube · EndVertex550.6K+ views · 1 month ago* Market Targeting Strategies for SaaS* Impact of AI (ChatGPT) on SaaS Marketing* Future of Prompt Engineering* AI Opportunities & Challenges in Content Creation* Limitations of AI Creativity & Risk-Taking* Web Development Standardization vs. Expertise* AI and the Democratization of Software Development* Role of Human Expertise with AI Tools* Risks & Quality Concerns of AI-Generated Content* Future of Human-AI Collaboration* Software Migration Pain Points* User Experience in SoftwareKey Takeaways:* Navigating platform policies (like LinkedIn's) can be complex after personal changes.* Having a strong personal brand is essential, but platforms can create hurdles.* Humor can be a great way to navigate frustrating situations (like customer service).* Creative projects are valuable, even if their purpose isn't immediately obvious.* Predatory SaaS pricing models can hinder accessibility and growth.* Targeting smaller, growing companies can be more effective than competing broadly.* AI (like ChatGPT) is significantly changing SaaS marketing and content generation.* Prompt engineering is an increasingly valuable skill.* While AI offers tools, it cannot replace human creativity, strategic thinking, or deep expertise.* AI struggles with risk-taking and genuine niche understanding.* Standardization (e.g., in web dev) doesn't eliminate the need for skilled professionals.* AI-generated content often lacks uniqueness and depth required to stand out.* The "democratization" via AI doesn't guarantee quality; expertise remains crucial.* Understanding customer pain points (like software migration) is vital for SaaS success.Memorable Quotes:* "I am now John McGreevey."* "I think it's polite to ask"* "I offered them some KFC"* "I've created a photo of a man in snow"* "I feel ashamed"* "Prompt engineering is the future."* "Your content needs to be great."* "AI can't take risks."* "AI can't niche down."* "Everything looks the same with AI."* "AI is creating a false economy."Chapters:* 43:02 - The Journey of Name Change and LinkedIn Challenges* 54:30 - LinkedIn Banter and Personal Anecdotes* 56:59 - Customer Service Experiences and Humor* 01:00:04 - Creative Projects and Artistic Endeavors* 01:04:00 - SaaS Pricing Models and Industry Standards* 01:19:00 - Targeting the Right Market in SaaS* 01:23:40 - The Future of Prompt Engineering* 01:24:42 - AI in Marketing: Opportunities and Challenges* 01:27:59 - The Human Touch in Content Creation* 01:30:22 - Web Development and Standardization* 01:33:00 - The Limitations of AI in Creativity* 01:36:18 - The Illusion of Democratization in Software Development* 01:39:36 - The Role of Expertise in AI Utilization* 01:42:34 - The Risks of AI-Generated Content* 01:45:14 - The Future of AI and Human CollaborationKeywords: LinkedIn, social media strategy, name change, customer service, SaaS, pricing models, market targeting, creative projects, humor, personal anecdotes, industry standards, ChatGPT, AI, prompt engineering, AI marketing, AI content creation, web development, democratization, expertise, software development, human-AI collaboration. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Summary: In the first part of this episode, hosts Alex Radford and Jon McGreevey reflect on their three-year journey with the "SaaSy as F**k" podcast. They delve into the emotional impact of discovering another podcast imitating their name and logo, discussing the challenges of plagiarism in creative fields and how it fuels their motivation. The conversation then shifts to the world of social media, exploring their recent venture onto TikTok, its surprising effectiveness for podcast growth, and why many SaaS companies struggle to create engaging, authentic content on the platform. They emphasize the critical importance of authenticity in marketing and offer sharp critiques of often-misguided corporate humor.Key Topics Discussed:* Podcasting Journey & Brand Building (3 Years)* Plagiarism and Imitation in Creative Fields* Emotional Impact of Brand Theft* Using Competition as Motivation* Originality vs. Imitation* Podcast Content Creation Challenges* Exploring TikTok for Podcast Growth* Understanding TikTok's Content Dynamics* SaaS Marketing Challenges on TikTok* Authenticity in Marketing & Branding* Critiquing Corporate Humor* Marketing Strategies & Playing to StrengthsKey Takeaways:* Maintaining originality and dealing with imitation are significant challenges in podcasting.* Competition can be a powerful motivator for content creation.* Building a brand over time creates investment and attachment.* Plagiarism can be emotionally taxing for creators.* TikTok can be surprisingly effective for podcast promotion, even for new accounts.* Many SaaS companies struggle with creating genuine, engaging content tailored for TikTok.* Authenticity is crucial in marketing; brands should play to their strengths rather than forcing humor.* Viral content isn't the only goal; consistency and value matter.* Adapting marketing strategies to fit a platform's culture is important.Memorable Quotes (Sound Bites - Likely from Part 1):* "We've been around for three years"* "Somebody's stolen our podcast"* "We need to stay ahead of the game"* "I think that would hurt my soul"* "I hate plagiarism so much"* "There's a good one and a bad one"* "We're the one with a really cool logo"* "We're now on TikTok, Alex."* "I love TikTok."* "SaaS companies are s**t at TikTok."* "If you're not funny, don't be funny."* "You don't need to be viral."Chapters:* 00:00 - Introduction to Sassy as F**k Podcast* 03:02 - The Journey of Podcasting and Building a Brand* 06:02 - The Challenge of Imitation: A Podcast Stolen* 11:54 - The Emotional Impact of Plagiarism* 17:57 - The Future of Sassy as F**k Podcast (Responding to Competition)* 26:04 - Exploring TikTok's Impact on Podcast Growth* 29:00 - Understanding TikTok's Unique Content Dynamics* 29:49 - Challenges for SaaS Companies on TikTok* 34:02 - The Importance of Authenticity in Marketing* 38:59 - Navigating Corporate Humor and Marketing StrategiesKeywords: Podcasting, plagiarism, branding, creativity, content creation, marketing, originality, engagement, TikTok, podcast growth, SaaS marketing, authenticity, corporate humor, competition, brand identity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Join us as we chat with with Jen Igartua. We kick things off by exploring Jen's unique and humorous approach to content on LinkedIn, challenging the platform's typically serious tone and discussing the importance of authenticity in professional settings. Jen shares insights from her journey as CEO of GoNimbly, delving into the critical role of Revenue Operations (RevOps) in aligning sales, marketing, and customer success to drive business efficiency and growth.The discussion navigates the evolving landscape of RevOps, the impact of AI on sales, automation, customer service, and go-to-market strategies. Jen offers practical advice for startups on building effective RevOps teams and leveraging personal branding for customer acquisition.Later, Jen switches gears to share her entrepreneurial experience in the board game industry as a co-founder of Pillbox Games, touching on design challenges and navigating Kickstarter. The episode culminates in a light-hearted and fun board game quiz segment featuring Jen, Jon, and Alex, testing their knowledge of classic and niche games.Key Topics Discussed:* Using Humor Effectively on LinkedIn* Authenticity in Professional Branding* The Role and Importance of RevOps (Revenue Operations)* Aligning Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success* AI's Impact on Sales, Automation, and Customer Service* Building RevOps Teams in Startups* Personal Branding for Customer Acquisition* Entrepreneurship and Side Hustles (Pillbox Games)* Board Game Design and the Kickstarter Landscape* Podcast Fun: Board Game QuizKey Takeaways:* Jen's unique humor challenges LinkedIn's serious nature, highlighting the value of authenticity.* Creating effective humorous content often benefits from collaboration.* Authenticity enhances job satisfaction and professional connections.* RevOps focuses on aligning sales, marketing, and customer success for efficiency.* Overcoming operational silos requires effective cross-team communication.* Data quality is paramount for successful AI implementation in business.* AI is evolving RevOps, focusing on strategic growth and efficiency.* Understanding customer pain points remains crucial, even with automation.* Adaptability is key in business, as shown in Jen's diverse career path.* Startups need business-minded operators for effective RevOps foundations.* Personal branding is a powerful tool for early customer acquisition.* The board game industry offers unique creative and business challenges.* Kickstarter is competitive but remains a viable funding source for games.* Side hustles like Pillbox Games can enhance skills and bring valuable cross-industry insights.* Board games (classic and niche) provide a fun backdrop for engagement and entertainment.Memorable Quotes (Sound Bites):* "I think he should do it now."* "How do you automate research?"* "You can look for these people."* "We started Pillbox Games in 2017."* "There's technically no time limit."* "Alex is a music composer."* "I wrote a f*****g quiz."* "The lamest of the word games."* "It's a Beatles song title."* "The promo code is promo-chode."* "Thank you so much for joining us."Chapters:* 00:00 - Introduction and Humor in Professional Spaces* 02:57 - The Art of Creating Funny Content* 06:07 - Navigating LinkedIn and Authenticity* 08:52 - The Journey to CEO of GoNimbly* 12:10 - Understanding RevOps and Its Importance* 14:56 - The Role of RevOps in Business Efficiency* 17:55 - Challenges and Surprises in RevOps* 21:00 - The Future of AI in Go-To-Market Strategies* 25:10 - Automating Efficiency in Sales Operations* 27:48 - The Impact of AI on Jobs and Customer Service* 30:17 - Building a Revenue Operations Team in Startups* 34:24 - Finding Early Customers and Building a Personal Brand* 37:39 - The Journey of Pillbox Games and Board Game Design* 48:49 - Board Game Quiz Introduction* 50:01 - Guessing Classic Board Games* 52:22 - Exploring Niche Board Games* 55:22 - Final Round of the Quiz* 56:53 - Wrap-Up and PromotionsKeywords:LinkedIn, humor, RevOps, SaaS, business strategy, authenticity, AI, content creation, entrepreneurship, marketing, sales operations, revenue operations, customer service, startups, board games, Kickstarter, personal branding, automation, efficiency, quiz, classic games, niche games, fun, entertainment, guessing game, podcast, Pillbox Games, Jen Igartua, GoNimbly. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

In this fun chat, Joel Klettke, a renowned SaaS copywriter, discusses the importance of standing out in the crowded field of copywriting, particularly in the B2B space. He shares insights on the common fears that hold businesses back from being innovative and how to break free from clichés in copywriting. Joel also recounts his personal journey into the world of copywriting, the founding of Case Study Buddy, and the common mistakes companies make when creating case studies. He emphasises the need for a proactive approach and the importance of understanding the audience's needs to create compelling narratives. In this conversation, Joel Klettke discusses the importance of promoting and distributing content effectively, emphasizing the need for customer-centric storytelling. He shares his journey of selling Case Study Buddy, highlighting the personal and professional challenges he faced. Joel reflects on redefining success and fulfillment, exploring new ventures, including a focus on parenting and the potential of AI in business.Takeaways* Standing out in a crowded market is crucial.* Fear of being different often stifles innovation.* Most companies settle for safe, cliché copy.* Proactive planning is key to effective case studies.* Understanding the audience is essential for impactful storytelling.* Case studies should focus on one big win.* Sales teams prefer concise, actionable content.* The journey into copywriting can be unexpected.* Building a team can enhance service offerings.* Mistakes in case studies often stem from lack of strategy. Promotion and distribution are crucial for content success.* Customer stories should focus on the customer's journey, not the company's achievements.* Selling a business can be driven by personal happiness and market conditions.* It's important to recognize when to step away from a venture for personal well-being.* Success is subjective and can be redefined at different life stages.* Exploring new opportunities can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.* Parenting support for dads is a needed area of focus.* AI presents new opportunities for businesses and should be embraced, not feared.* Joy should be an indicator of whether you're on the right path in life.* You have the power to define your own career trajectory.TitlesChapters00:00The Importance of Standing Out in Copywriting06:01Breaking the Mold: Copywriting Beyond Clichés12:11Transitioning into Copywriting: A Personal Journey18:09Common Mistakes in Case Studies and How to Avoid Them33:42The Importance of Promotion and Distribution39:45Navigating Personal and Professional ChallengesKeywordscopywriting, SaaS, B2B, case studies, marketing, innovation, storytelling, business strategy, unique voice, personal journey, promotion, distribution, customer storytelling, Case Study Buddy, personal challenges, success, fulfillment, new ventures, AI, parenting This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

In this engaging conversation, Jon and Jane Portman discuss the multifaceted journey of building a SaaS business while balancing personal life. Jane shares her experiences transitioning from a UI/UX consultant to co-founding User List, an email automation platform. They explore the challenges of slow growth in the SaaS industry, the importance of niching down, and the realities of technical hurdles. Jane emphasizes the significance of continuous learning and adapting in the ever-evolving tech landscape, while also offering insights for aspiring podcasters. In this engaging conversation, Jane Portman discusses the long-term benefits of podcasting, emphasizing the importance of networking and learning from guests. She highlights the necessity of delegating production tasks to focus on content creation and shares insights on investing in quality equipment for better audio production. The conversation culminates in a light-hearted quiz segment, showcasing the fun side of podcasting while reinforcing the value of collaboration and creativity.Takeaways* Balancing personal life and entrepreneurship is challenging but possible with support.* The journey from consultant to co-founder involves leveraging existing skills.* Evolving a product is a gradual process rather than a sudden pivot.* Technical challenges are significant, and having a reliable team is crucial.* Slow growth can be beneficial, allowing for steady learning and adaptation.* Narrowing down the target market can help in finding ideal customers.* Limited resources force prioritization and focus in product development.* Understanding the market and customer needs is essential for success.* Building a SaaS business requires patience and resilience.* Advice for podcasters includes finding a niche and staying consistent. Podcasting is a long game, focused on enjoyment and learning.* The primary benefit of podcasting is networking with interesting people.* Delegation of production tasks is crucial for efficiency.* Investing in quality equipment can significantly improve audio quality.* Learning from guests is a unique privilege of podcasting.* Quality production can be outsourced affordably.* The right tools, like a boom arm, can enhance the podcasting experience.* Editing can be time-consuming; consider hiring help.* Engaging with guests in-depth is a rare opportunity.* Podcasting can be both fun and a valuable learning experience.Titles* Navigating the SaaS Landscape: Insights from Jane Portman* From Consultant to Co-Founder: A SaaS Journey* Balancing Life and Business: The Reality of Entrepreneurship* The Evolution of User List: A SaaS Success Story* Slow Growth vs. Overnight Success: The SaaS DilemmaSound Bites* "It's always been like a mix of things."* "The product itself did not pivot."* "Just keep going. That's the lesson."* "It's always a game of limited resources."* "What advice would you have for them?"* "It's a long game."* "You can't get people to do that generally."* "Please, please delegate the production."* "It's a spectrum of costs."* "I was doing deep audio editing."* "Use a boom arm, please."Chapters00:00Introduction and Awkward Beginnings03:05Balancing Life as a Founder and Parent06:07The Journey from Consultant to Co-Founder08:58Evolving the Product and Business Model11:59Navigating Technical Challenges and Team Dynamics14:52The Reality of Slow Growth in SaaS18:01Lessons Learned from Building a SaaS Business21:08Future Aspirations and the SaaS Landscape23:57Narrowing Down the Target Market27:01Overcoming Fears of Niching Down29:52Advice for Aspiring Podcasters37:08The Long Game of Podcasting38:02Networking Through Podcasting39:45The Importance of Delegation40:55Investing in Quality Production42:51Learning from Experience44:12The Right Equipment Matters46:45Fun and Games: The Surprise QuizKeywordspodcasting, SaaS, entrepreneurship, user list, email marketing, business growth, co-founder, balancing life, niching down, startup challenges, podcasting, networking, delegation, production, equipment, learning, user list, marketing, audio editing, guest interviews This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

Episode Summary:After 18 months, Alex Radford and Jon McGreevy have returned, brimming with the usual SaaS and a dash of nostalgia. In this comeback episode, they chat candidly about what they've been up to, the evolution of their careers, and the future of SaaSy as F**k. Expect laughs, tangents, and a peek into their renewed vision for the podcast.Highlights:00:00 - 03:30 | Technical Chaos: After wrestling with tech, Alex and Jon kick off with a “cold open” in classic, chaotic SaaSy as F**k fashion.03:30 - 10:45 | Reflecting on the Hiatus: Alex and Jon reflect on their evolution, sharing why they’re ready to get back in the saddle.10:45 - 22:00 | Origins and Growth: Jon recounts his shift from software testing to full-time SaaS copywriting, while Alex shares his journey to becoming a multimedia wizard.22:00 - 32:00 | The Future of the Show: They lay out plans for a casual yet informative format, with insightful guest interviews balanced by lighthearted banter.32:00 - 40:00 | Content Direction and AI’s Role: They vow to keep it real, free of overly “AI-driven” content and affiliate shilling, keeping the focus on quality insights.40:00 - 47:00 | Behind the Scenes: Jon and Alex discuss the process of running a podcast, using WordPress, and the power of simplicity in content.Key Takeaways:Focus on SaaS Insights – Expect valuable insights from experts in SaaS marketing, branding, content creation, and more.Non-Traditional Format – The podcast remains casual and conversational, aiming for genuine discussions rather than scripted Q&A.Connect with the Hosts:Jon McGreevy: heyreadthis.com | LinkedIn: ThatWriterJonAlex Radford: alexradford.uk | Instagram: alex_theproducerStay tuned for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guest interviews, industry tips, and, as always, plenty of SaaS! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com

SaaS copywriter Gill Jones joins us to discuss story-driven copy, the pros and cons of being a copywriter with ASD, and her hatred of cruises.Follow her on TwitterVisit her websiteThis is our last episode for a while, as we focus on other projects, but we hope to be back towards the end of the year! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saasyasfuck.substack.com