Shows
PartnerOps PartnerAcknowledgement: It's a Weird Time to Be AliveSend us a textNow, more than ever, I'm looking for my people. If this episode hits, please share and help me find them. If it doesn't, might be time to unsubscribe and find a place you feel more comfortable. In case you just don't listen - I'm a feminist ally that supports the effort to create a balanced world through diversity, equity, and inclusion. And that's probably just the tip of the iceberg. It's a really weird time to be alive. We might as well be weird together. ...2025-02-2109 min
PartnerOps PartnerNotebookLM Deep Dive: My Resume?Send us a textSo what happens if you upload your resume to NotebookLM as the single source? AI podcasts go deep on your experience and say 'Sauce' (SaaS)...They don't consider 'Atlassian' as a big name brand, hahThey legitimately cover a lot of ground and value, and do a really compelling job of making me sound super interestingThey discuss the SaaS industry in depth, which is fascinating considering the focus was my single page resumeUltimately, I'd love to recruiters to take a minute and consider my resume at the same level. They drove s...2024-10-1809 min
Kirby Woods PodcastOff Script Ep.68: Reacting to Changing Methods in the Negative WorldPastor Jared, Dillon, and Caleb react to a tweet by Josh Howerton which discusses the changing methods of cultural engagement in the “negative world” as framed by Aaron Renn. Submit your ideas for Off Script topics at https://www.kirbywoods.org/offscript. Follow us online! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirbywoodsmemphis Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirbywoodsmemphis YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kirbywoods Podcast: https://kirbywoodspodcast.buzzsprout.com2024-10-1844 minPartnerOps PartnerSlack Community + Partner FoundationsSend us a textWe did it! We launched the community! If you're in PartnerOps and looking for people, send a message over on LinkedIn and we'll get you added to the official PartnerOps Partner slack community thread. This episode is a brief update to cover the launch of the community, trends in the job market, and the recent launch and summary of Partner Foundations, the SFDC app for Partner Attribution that I recently launched (separate and apart from PartnerOps Partner). As always, thanks for tagging along. Anticipate a return to for...2024-09-1014 min
PartnerOps Partner1000 Downloads Later: Where Have We Been and Where are We Going?Send us a textLife Happens: An Update and Gratitude from Aaron HowertonIn this episode, I provide an update after a three-month hiatus, sharing personal and professional challenges that led to the break. Despite the pause, the podcast has surpassed a thousand downloads, which I credit to loyal listeners and the occasional new audience member that seems to connect with the messaging. I'm deeply grateful for the continued support. We have future plans for the platform, including collaboration and fundamental shifts in the underlying business.This is a low key ep...2024-07-2310 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Ops: Wendy WenSend us a textThis week we take another stroll down PartnerOps lane and hear from Wendy Wen! Wendy got started in PartnerOps just over a year ago at Pigment and is now on the verge of hiring her first intern. Although new to PartnerOps, Wendy brings the kind of background that makes for a great leader in the space. Tune in to learn more about: A few of the places Wendy has recently popped up onlineHow Wendy got into PartnerOps after losing another role Where PartnerOps is situated within the organization The benefits of wh...2024-05-0335 min
PartnerOps PartnerRehash: CRM for Partnerships - Announcing Partner Foundations!Send us a textThis week, I'm taking a play from "Stuff You Should Know" and I'm going into the archives to pull back a 'classic' - CRM Foundations for Partnerships! UNLIKE my para-social friends Chuck and Josh, however, I'm calling it a 'rehash' because I'm not just cycling up the old content. I've pulled it out for an update and tied it a pretty big announcement, at least for me... and maybe anyone trying to make Salesforce 'work' for Partnerships. In this episode:What's happened in Partnerships since last year CRM's ar...2024-03-2911 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartnerOps Leader: Ashley OrtegaSend us a textThis week we're circling back to PartnerOps and introducing everyone to Ashely Ortega on her podcast debut! Ashley recently received her THIRD promotion within Partner Operations at Klaviyo and was kind enough to join me to celebrate! We also discuss her trajectory from Channel Operations Analyst to her new role as Senior Manager, Partner Operations alongside a slew of other topics... Ashley's path from Sales to Partner OperationsThe value of that history to success in her current roleThe value of Scrum as an Operations Manager How learning to push back and...2024-03-1531 min
Friends with Benefits36 - Operationalizing Partner Programs with Aaron HowertonSend us a textAaron Howerton, a Partner Operations expert, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of partner operations and its role in driving successful partnerships. Aaron explains that partner operations is distinct from channel operations and encompasses all aspects of partnerships beyond resale and distribution. He emphasizes the necessity of partner operations and the value it brings to both external partners and internal teams.Aaron shares insights on operationalizing partner programs, building internal alignment, and leveraging CRM integration for effective partner management. He also highlights the challenges faced by partner leaders in justifying...2024-03-141h 02
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Leader: Antonio Caridad (PartnerOps is Critical!)Send us a textAntonio is currently the Senior Director of Channel Programs at Megaport where he's been building and expanding the partner foot print for nearly 3 years. Before that, he cut his teeth at a global powerhouse called IBM (maybe you've heard of them?). Today, Antonio and I basically realize we need more time to go through a few more things. BUT... in this episode we did talk about: The baggage of being called/viewed through the lens of 'Channel' The evolution of channel into modern partner conceptsHow industry impacts the type of lan...2024-03-0833 min
PartnerOps PartnerTech Founder: Jessie ShipmanSend us a textLast week (because #life after #SKO sickness has delayed everything), one of my favs joined me to share insight into her journey as a Partner Tech Founder and a few other things, such as: Who is "Bluey" really made for?An unreasonable amount of time discussing how long we've known each other Jessie's journey as a tech founder from initial launch to current stateWhat Fluincy does Jessie's unexpectedly fantastic promotional idea for her next conference (hint: think dress up and mixed tapes). Why Aaron is getting random work calls via Zoom The chall...2024-02-2836 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Leader: Adam PaschSend us a textThis week it's early stage partnerships with Adam Pasch! Adam brings several years experience with early stage program development as well as a deep background in public sector partnership work. He was kind enough to jump over from our time on Literal Scratch and join me for a 1-1 where we covered: His background and 'qualifications' to level set the audience Getting shit done in an early stage program as the 'all in one' partner leader (ops, marketing, sales, recruitment, onboarding)Key operational needs to get partnerships off the...2024-02-1733 min
PartnerOps PartnerTech Founder: Rob Rebholz, SuperglueSend us a textThis week we circle back to Tech Founders and I'm very excited to drag my friend and founder Rob Rebholz onto the podcast. In this episode: Rob describes Superglue and it's value in building bridges between Partners and AEsDiscussion on the importance of integrating technology to assist sales and partner teams more effectively, focusing on real-time assistance and data-driven referrals.Challenges and solutions in partner operations, emphasizing the necessity of CRM integration and data quality for successful partner management.Insights into building and maintaining a partner ecosystem, with an emphasis on creating a...2024-02-0938 min
PartnerOps PartnerRevOps with Mollie BodensteinerSend us a textThis week I'm thrilled to have my friend Mollie Bodensteiner join us to discuss the connection between PartnerOps and RevOps. We didn't cover everything I wanted to cover, but we did manage to chat about: The evolving definition and significance of Partner Ops roles.The evolution of operations at Deel, where we first ran into one another How PartnerOps is more than RevOps (prepare to be seen!) Pillars of Operations (straight gold)How to re-center a meeting and focus on productive conversationsThe structure of RevOps and her varied placements in hierarchies "Your data...2024-02-0239 min
PartnerOps PartnerISVs & Ops: Linkon Axon (Arys Consulting)Send us a textWelcome to a new episode of Partner Ops Partner. This week, we're excited to feature Linkon Axon from Arys Consulting and a conversation around ISVs and Partner Ops. In this episode...The role of Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) in the fintech sector.Managing partnerships in both hardware and software domains.The significance of Partner Operations for scalable growth.Understanding diverse partner types: ISVs, OEMs, resellers, etc.Tackling operational challenges within the partner ecosystem.Structuring operations to align with strategic business goals.Don't forget this is also posted at YouTube f...2024-01-2632 min
Partnerships Unraveled068 - Aaron Howerton of Samsara - Mastering the fusion of Partner Operations and Business GrowthHow can you turbocharge your partner program’s growth while tackling complex partner operations?In the latest episode, Aaron Howerton, who owns the roadmap for Partner Operations and Partner Experience across all programs at Samsara and runs the PartnerOps Partner, including the popular job board, gets into solving a real-time problem with podcast host Rick van den Bosch around growth, cross-functional collaboration and the right moment to bring in partner operations into your channel. The duo dives into:Partner operations roles and their impact on business growthThe role of enablement in partner operations. It’s imp...2024-01-2537 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartnerOps: Kim StaggSend us a textKick back with a drink and get to know a fellow Ops professional!This week I'm very excited to introduce everyone to Kim Stagg, a relatively new friend that is now also acting co-founder for PartnerOps Partner as we forge into a new year! Kim has, count it, nearly 20 years in Channel, with the last several being dedicated to the Channel Ops function. That means an Ops pro with a background in Partner Management, program development.. the works! So what do we talk about? Lots of things, li...2024-01-1940 min
PartnerOps PartnerTech Founder Chat: Kenny Browne at Partner FleetSend us a textThis week, a conversation with Kenny Browne! A few caveats about the episode before we dive in... We recorded a while back so this isn't a bonus episode - it actually convinced me to shift focus for this year and do more of this work. Stay tuned for the report mentioned - it should land any day on Partner Fleet's social media channels. The 'In-App' marketplace was launched 2023 - I say 'this year' because it was recorded in 2023. Let's go! Kenny one of the co-founders at Partner Fleet and joine...2024-01-1240 min
PartnerOps PartnerNew Year, New FormatSend us a textWelcome to 2024 and a new agenda for PartnerOps Partner! This is, hopefully, one of the few if not the only episode of the season in which you have to listen to just me rambling for 10-12 minutes. In this episode: A new website for PartnerOps Partner - sign in required?! A new co-founder for PartnerOps Partner A new format for the PartnerOps Partner Podcast (geez, that's a lot of P's!) What to expect and.. how to help in 2024Next week I'm joined by what I hope is the first of many gues...2024-01-0511 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 12: Big Things ComingSend us a textWelcome.... to the season 2 finale episode. I'd love to say it's chock full of lots of goodies but the reality is that it's actually a double episode that's still only 12 minutes long. In this episode:Week 12 Summary: Wrapping up the 90 days PartnerOps Partner - Big things coming in 2024 (for me anyway)Did I find a partner in this endeavor? Wishes for your end of year season If you've been listening this year, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. It's been a privilege to be in your ear...2023-12-0912 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 11: ADHDSend us a textI'm nearly two weeks late, but there's good reasons, and I talk about them in this episode. I also talk about: How my diagnosis has impacted my understanding of myself How ADHD has impacted my career to dateDifferent coping mechanisms for achieve success anyway How success still didn't feel like success because #impostersyndrome The impact of finally having medication This one runs a little longer and likely doens't include all the things it COULD include because I'm still trying to cram it all in. Still, it's a small window into the world...2023-11-2217 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 10: The TwistSend us a textThis week has been on hell of a long month. I'm late to publish, went too long, and am simply grateful that I get to take on such a vain project. This week:Stats: Crossing 1200+ downloads across two platformsThe Twist: Mindset from IC to Influence and backThe Twist: Unexpected results for this post on LinkedInADHD Diagnosis! For reals though... The Stuff of Life Literal Scratch: Sister Podcast BONUS EPISODE ANNOUNCEMENT (that's it, there will be a bonus episode with a guest...) Have a great week - we're close to the...2023-11-1113 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 9: Taking Control (Ownership?)Send us a textWeek 9 brings a birthday for my sister who will always and forever be older than me - thankful for small blessing, #amiright? Professionally, week 9 brings real control in my position over what's coming. In this episode I'm talk (i.e. ramble) about: Ownership v. Control Slowing down v. running fast Prioritizing relationships The tension between what IS and what could Be Quick musings around level + where I'm at How we all wish we had arrived earlier than we did The balance of what is 'locked' and where I can 'influence' directio...2023-10-3113 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 8: the 60 Day ReportSend us a textWeek 8 represents the first 60 days of the new role! In this episode:The difference in 30 and 60 day summariesThe audience and purpose for this contentWhat's included in the 60 day review? My internal battle with pointless content Content creation as a learning tool PartnerOps as a career - we need more direction! Events I'm working inThanks and congrats for recent invites/hires! I'm dropping a couple of links into the notes this week to encourage some engagement and share some resources. If you're up for it, check out the following: Firneo...2023-10-2311 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 7: InfluenceSend us a textEvery record a podcast and then... forget to publish it? Welcome to Week 7: Influence, published one week late! Let's think of it like a bonus episode after a well-deserved week off? Everyone taking a new job has to take on the effort to rebuild their influence in a new organization. Building influence takes a variety of skills and is often the critical element in your overall success in any given role. This week (or last?): Defining influence by the dictionary Something unique about this role in particular Professional growt...2023-10-1813 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 6: Blending NarrativesSend us a textThis week is a pretty clear transition to fully owning my role and work effort. It's where the rubber meets the road for blending the narratives that already exist with the story I want to tell. This week:Recognizing historical cognitive biasProject ownership and influence Kicking off a Listening Tour The value of qualitative researchMusings on what it means to be 'Senior' on a team here and elsewhereMusings on the nature of aloof leadershipThis is a pretty critical week for me professionally as I step into the hot sea...2023-10-0912 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 5: Building FoundationsSend us a textThis week I get to be on-site for an off-site with my team and the rest of the Partnership organization at Samsara! The big challenge for me - distilling my 'vision' for Partner Experience into a 30 minute presentation for my team. What's the foundational assumption for building Partner Experience? Viewing the partner tech stack as a 'Product' The actual audience for Partner Experience (hint: think C-Level) How Partner Experience is tied to RevenueI'm excited for the trip and the chance to build foundations for the long-term success of this opportunity. If y...2023-10-0211 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 4: Small WinsSend us a textThis is week four of a multi-week series following my first 90 days in a new role dedicated to PartnerOps and Experience. Subscribe today to follow along and check out the historical episodes to get caught up! Four weeks already - next week I go onsite! But.. what about my 90 day plan? This week's focus: Small Wins. Literally taking a chapter from the book - Chapter 5 to be exact - and covering how the transition from onboarding to ownership includes picking up small wins for those first few weeks as we...2023-09-2811 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 3: Onboarding to OwnershipSend us a textFollowing last week's discussion around junior v. senior roles, this week is a focus on the transition from onboarding to ownership. In this episode:The end of structured onboarding content The big things left on my 'onboarding' plate How I maybe should be using 'The First 90 Days' as a resource The value of workflow!My Priorities for week 3Gratitudes! This one runs about 13 minutes and, like the others, is full of me talking to myself about myself. If you're listening and enjoy, feel free to rate it or dr...2023-09-1812 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 2: Slow Down, Ask QuestionsSend us a textWeek 2 is all about... doing the same thing in new directions. That's right - still building connections and leaning in this week just toward new learnings. Tune in to hear my ramblings on: My tendency to run fastSlowing down to build relationshipsRespecting what's already hereThe difference in junior v. senior ops rolesThe difference in ramping Ops v. other roles What I'm looking forward to at the end of my first 30 daysAlso, I definitely stick my foot in my mouth. If you know me it's fine. If you don't, it...2023-09-1210 min
PartnerOps PartnerWeek 1: Connection and Leaning InSend us a textThis is it! The first week of the new role! I'm excited and a little anxious, but mostly excited because I really do enjoy change when it's time. This week I cover:The general outline of the next 3 months of episodes covering my first 90 days in a new roleWhat I will and won't be talking about (hint: proprietary stuff is off the table!)Connection GoalsLeaning In to Learning and Existing Knowledge My big take away as I get started on a new adventure Bonus: I'm going to try video pod...2023-09-0411 min
PartnerOps PartnerNew Horizons: Leaving AtlassianSend us a textWHAAAAAAT?!?! Yes, that's right. After a brief 10 month stretch I've accepted a new role at a new company and I'm leaving Atlassian! "But Aaron..." , you scream into the darkness, "why would you leave Atlassian right now?! You're less than a year in, you're about to vest stock, the economic market is nuts, the benefits are great, and you keep talking about how wonderful the people are?!" All true. All accurate. All irrelevant (to me). In this episode: The logic behind my decisionMy values around worki...2023-08-3011 min
PartnerOps PartnerCareer Growth in PartnerOpsSend us a textLast week I stumbled across a dream job in Partner Experience and quickly went about getting an interview. Within two days I got into a screener with the recruiter in spite of 900 applicants ahead of me.15 minutes later I was out of the running. So.. what happened? What did I lack? Where do I go from here? More than that...what does it take to shift your career when working Partner Operations? Listen in this week and let me know what you think, espe...2023-07-2010 minPartnerOps PartnerWho's the audience for Partner Ops professionals?Send us a textThis week I focus on understanding who the audience is for PartnerOps content. I'm still turning over the implications for how it impacts what I do professionally but also what it might mean for others and the continued evolution of the role. At the end of the day, we as PartnerOps professionals have to get deeper understandings of how our efforts are tied to revenue because our budget lives and breathes under the CRO. Good luck partnering! Aaron Howertonwww.linkedin.com/in/aaronhowertonwww.par...2023-07-1011 min
Deep House EpisodesJuly 2023Oscar P, Cris Herrera, Mike T Brown, Norty Cotto - Lets Get It HRNS, David Harness, Tedd Patterson - Teena's Crybeatsbyhand, Kali Mija - King Of My CastleMijangos, Aaron Sevilla - Just DanceMark Farina, Homero Espinsoa - Come On, Baby (Tedd Patterson)Norty Cotto, SJ Stingray - Celia ScatSerge Funk - Disco HustleSuperlover - Piano Pump (NiCe7 Remix)Coflo, Steve Howerton, Niya Wells - Shake MeGrant Nelson - In MotionChristian B - Hold Me CloseN.W.N. - Don't Stop2023-07-031h 04
PartnerOps PartnerTurning Down a Job - Did I Miss a $50k Raise?!Send us a textI recently turned down a job offer and recently learned the top range may be $30k higher than the offer I received - did I miss out on a $50k raise?! Probably not, but it got me thinking about the process and all the things I maybe did wrong that lead to my own decision to walk away from a leadership role with a team in a pre-PRM organization (yes... it DOES sound like a dream role doesn't it?). In this episode, I deconstruct the process and cover:A...2023-06-0714 minPartnerOps PartnerFinding Balance as a CreatorSend us a textThis week, details on the inflection point I'm facing and where I'm going from here. Topics include:A summer break for weekly article generation The future of the podcast (hint: interviews!)MasterclassService Offerings CommunityStay tuned because the podcast isn't going anywhere and will hopefully get a little better. Got questions, feedback, or snide remarks? Let me know - aaron@partneropspartner.com! Aaron Howertonwww.linkedin.com/in/aaronhowertonwww.partneropspartner.com 2023-06-0110 minPartnerOps PartnerHow to Select an Account Mapping VendorSend us a textYou need an Account Mapping strategy. That means you need a vendor. This week - a guide to selecting that vendor! Gather the StakeholdersReadiness CheckValidate the Strategy in AdvanceVetting the VendorsGet the full guide online via LinkedIn or through my friends at PartnerHacker. Need help picking a vendor? Reach out at aaron@partneropspartner.com! Aaron Howertonwww.linkedin.com/in/aaronhowertonwww.partneropspartner.com 2023-05-2413 min
PartnerOps PartnerDrop the CRMSend us a textThis week - we explore the challenges faced by Partner Ops professionals and their reliance on CRM systems that aren't designed for their needs. Maybe it's time to drop the CRM? CRMs are't designed for Partnerships out of the box.Heavy customizations create highly sensitive and unique environments. Integrations continually add dead weight to CRM infrastructure and icnrease complexity in management In a perfect world, the CRM is a source of truth, but in reality it's often never realized. PartnerOps faces an often uphill battle trying to bring everyone and everything together on t...2023-05-1710 min
PartnerOps PartnerGetting Started with Partner ExperienceSend us a textThis week it's back to tactical advice on how to start managing Partner Experience! The topics are riveting and include whiz-bangers like: What to track about the tech stackMapping the Stakeholder JourneyCasting a Vision and Securing Buy-InCoordinating the RoadmapThe Daily Grind Summary: Everyone is in Partnerships. Next week I'll be returning to more tactical guidance as I've had more requests show up around SFDC architecture, but of course I reserve the right to change my mind at the last minute and cover whatever I want. It is MY podcast aft...2023-05-1010 min
PartnerOps PartnerWho Owns Partner Experience?Send us a textIn this episode, we (okay I) talk about who should "own" the concept of Partner Experience in a company. We'll (okay.. again... I) will cover: A summary of last week in case you missed it!How I used Descript and ChatGPT to help generate my content this week (hint - it wasn't perfect) The way several other roles are tied to Partner Experience and why they aren't really suited to 'owning' the vision as a wholePartner Operations (PartnerOps) is a natural place for Experience Management to live due to its ove...2023-05-0310 min
PartnerOps PartnerWhy You Need a Vision for Partner ExperienceSend us a textPartner Experience is more than a buzzword - it's a critical element of your Ecosystem planning. This week's podcast dives three main 'Why's for establishing a Vision for Partner Experience, discussing:Partners are customersLayered relationships create complexityIntentional effort and thought needed to manage complexityPartners are foundationalEssential for business growth and scalingImportant for company planning, especially in software companiesInformed decision-makingAvoid making decisions in a vacuumExample: PRM acquisition and deal registrationThe episode explores how building a solid Partner Experience foundation from day one can help businesses scale effectively and e...2023-04-2609 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Tech Dream StateSend us a textI love Partner Tech. After years in SaaS I feel like I'm finally found a 'niche' of the industry where I 'get' the point and 'see' the roadmap. This week in formerly Behind the SaaS, now PartnerOps Partner, thoughts on my Partner Tech Dream State. I rant about... PartnerOps as the foundation of truly great Partner Experience The state of PartnerOps as a role with historically limited authority over tech acquisition plans PartnerOps in Early and Late Stage companies as evidence of the prior pointThe tech itself challenging preferential treatmentFinally... the...2023-04-1917 min
Partner Relationship Management (PRM): The Ultimate Channel Sales & Partnerships Podcast22 - Live: The State of Partner Engagement and Partner Portals in 2023 & Beyond - Rob Rebholz, Aaron Howerton, Paul BirdLet us know what you think of the podcast. The current state and future of partner portals (do we even need them?)Partner engagement challenges: How partner management tech is changing to meet partners where they already are (outside the portal) Hear about what other partner tech providers are doing to meet expectations partners have in the current landscapeFor a video version of this episode, see here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FkPi5I5wdI The conversation started on these threads. We’ll be addressing the major points brought up by others from these...2023-04-171h 00
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Ops is a Strategic RoleSend us a textThis week we clarify the purpose of Partner Ops - delivering strategic value. That's it - skip the episode if you want because that's what we talk about or listen in for a reminder of what you already want/believe. Upcoming Changes/Housekeeping I got a new mic! Audio quality is improved Defining Partner Ops as a Strategic Role Strategic Mindset = Asking Questions Examples of strategic value add How to train other people on your new outlook Balancing strategy to higher level OKRs/MBO's/whatever to learn strategy Bonus Tips on tracking...2023-04-1111 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Experience is Shifting (AI & LLM Models)Send us a textI'm back at it this week with a personal revelation after gettin gmy own project stood up with the help of ChatGPT after literally MONTHS of beating my head against a wall looking for help and thinking about it. Meet OSCAR: www.oscartech.co How does this story of AI generation impact Partner Experience? Listen in to find out! In this episode: The generation of a new toy, OSCAR. PRM as a Hot Topic in Partnerships The Frustrations From Portal Users (see...2023-04-0512 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Influence: Purpose, Architecture, and CaveatsSend us a textWhat up Partner People? Welcome to another episode and this time we run 13 minutes (yeah.. I know... I'm working on it....) all about Partner Influence. In this episode: Partner Influence is a murky topic without a lot of clarity on the long term value. None-the-less, people are asking to track it and we're going to talk about how to do it. As with anything, there are caveats and advanced plays to consider when planning out architecture. Get the details in the write-up! As always, thanks for...2023-03-2213 min
PartnerOps PartnerWhat happens when you put PartnerOps Under RevOps? Community ResponseSend us a textThis week... my microphone failed and I had to use Airpods so #1 - my apologies and thank you for listening anyway! I think I'm about to have to buy some new gear so if you've been sitting on the sidelines waiting to jump in as a sponsor, let's talk! Now... for the show. We hear from the community to understand how shifting PartnerOps under RevOps can impact the role. Five of my colleagues from Partnership Leaders jump in to help another program leader get this critical insight. Who are th...2023-03-1513 min
PartnerOps PartnerAccount Mapping: 9-Box Strategic PlanSend us a textAccount Mapping is a strategic play that comes with lots of incredibly powerful data. The real downside of Account Mapping is really the amount of potential it has because organizations are often under-staffed or under-prepared to utilize all of it at once! Tune in this week to hear: What is a 9-Box strategic plan? Prediction for how people will handle Account Mapping in the next 12-18 months General Foundations for getting started Guidelines for each of the 3 major buckets: Prospects, Opportunities, and Customers You'll have to go to the write...2023-03-0812 min
PartnerOps PartnerBuilding CRM for Partnerships: Don't Skip the Ice MachineSend us a textThis week on Behind the SaaS, building CRM for Partnerships. Hint: the ice machine is your architecture. Also in this episode: Big news in the partnership world for Reveal and Crossbeam as they announce new partnerships around content/community. Don't Skip the Ice Machine (or, my weekend date night observation) Elements of Partner Architecture Questions to help use those elements Teases about coming announcements A call to action - reach out if you need help with your architectural planning! What are you waiting for.... hit play already! Looking f...2023-03-0112 min
PartnerOps PartnerSalesforce Views for Partnerships (Making what you have work for you)Send us a textSalesforce, like any other platform, is only going to be as good as you make it. That being said, in my continuous effort to drive Partner Operations value out of the tech you have, some ideas on how to make Salesforce Views work for Partnerships. In this episode... Acknowledging the software that works is the software people use Building views that work as process drivers Tips on how to organize views with names and security access It's another week of trying to bring tactical advice to the field for the small t...2023-02-2211 min
PartnerOps PartnerDesign Principles and Building a Partnership App in CRMSend us a textAlthough this focuses on Salesforce, the concepts are the same for any CRM with comparable tools. Join me today for a quick discussion on: Why we need a partnership app Design principles for building a space Steps on setup Considerations for Home Page Custom PagesAs always, this post is available in detail on LinkedIn and now, weekly at PartnerHacker! Got questions or thoughts? Shoot me an email and let's chat - aaron@partneropspartner.com. No website, but the email is real... I promise... Aaron Howertonwww.l...2023-02-1511 min
PartnerOps PartnerPartner Recruitment Model Using Tools You've GotSend us a textPartner Recruitment is an often overlooked aspect of program development. It lives with program leads and ends up lost in spreadsheets and email. Odds are, even a startup has all the tools you need to build a basic partner recruitment model that creates more transparency and improves your partner experience. In this episode, practical guidance on how to achieve that reality as well as commentary on the broader trend of purchasing unnecessary software and how org-wide teams can improve utilization of existing tech and avoid one-off feature acquisitions. No vi...2023-02-0810 min
PartnerOps PartnerCrossbeam + Spekit: Just-in-Time Learning Enhances Overlap Data in SalesforceSend us a textGeez what a title.... but why not be specific? In this episode, the value of enhancing your Crossbeam (or really any) Salesforce widget with the power of Spekit, a just-in-time learning platform designed to bring enablement and education to where your teams work in real time. I put this tech together for the first time at 6sense and found it incredibly helpful for improving how the organization sees partnership data cross-functionally. Once you see it, it makes sense. For images, links, and supporting content, check out my new...2023-02-0110 min
PartnerOps PartnerMeasure What You Give - Building Trust with EcosystemSend us a textBuilding trust with Partners, like with people, takes time. 2023 is going to be a hard year for many and the word of the year is going to be 'Retention.' Shift the narrative with your Partners and start measuring what you GIVE instead of what you GET. Tune in for ideas on: Leads MDF SPIFFs Training Account Mapping Renewals and Retention ReportingThe main idea? Give more. Track it. Share it. See the write-up on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/partner-ops-digest-from-bts-7003369929953464320/Aar...2023-01-1811 min
PartnerOps PartnerShow Me the Money... by Program and PartnerSend us a textSaaS has a well established book of metrics as an industry that tend to revolve around a few key pillars of Revenue, Customer Behavior, and Marketing Costs. There's a lot to talk about within that space alone. If you've been listening then you know I tend to drill down toward Ecosystem. I'll come back to a primer on SaaS metrics soon, promise, but today is a conversation around the way I'd love to see Partner metrics evolve. There's ongoing conversations around lagging indicators v. leading indicators and I went deep on a...2023-01-1110 min
PartnerOps PartnerBack to Basics: Foundations of Partner ArchitectureSend us a textAnother week, another podcast! This week we go back to basics and review foundations of Partner Architecture. Yup... I know that's also obvious in the title. What do we cover? - Why Architecture Matters- Core Assumptions - Ideas for a Good Foundation Also, if you're interested in building your network around Partner Operations use this link to sign up for a monthly connection event network thing I'm working on: https://forms.gle/rDA8W5EXLaXkRjh89. Finally, get the writte...2023-01-0411 min
PartnerOps PartnerSelf-Care Tips for 2023: Brag Book, Networking, ConnectingSend us a textClosing out 2022 with a podcast is just fun. This is far and away my favorite 'thing' outside of work that's still professionally oriented. My apologies in advance as this one goes a couple minutes past my typical 10 minute goal, but there's just a lot of good things to say. This week's episode covers the ideas in my weekly newsletter over on LinkedIn (link below). It's all about self-care in 2023! Here's the big ideas... - Build a brag book.- Expand your network. - Join...2022-12-2812 min
PartnerOps PartnerWorking in SaaS #5: Finding a New TEAM (Job Search Update)Send us a textContinue the journey as I shared where I've landed, why I picked it, what I'm excited about, and why I still have some concerns. As always, I approach this with transparency and honest thoughts. I feel fortunate to have landed quickly at such a strong company with a manager that comes with stellar reviews from my personal network and a chance to start before the end of the year. There's a lot to be thankful for in this entire process, including this podcast being born because I'm only just getting started. ...2022-12-1910 min
PartnerOps PartnerIf not Partner Ops... Partner ExperienceSend us a textThis week I got a challenging response from a new friend - it's more than Partner Operations. I'll admin, I get sucked into existing frameworks pretty easily. I think it's the nature of my personality, lots of fun personal history we can talk about sometime over a beer, but ultimately it's this desire to figure out what IS and work WITHIN that model to drive change. Not wanting to rock the boat, etc. etc. It's apparently also got me talking Partner Operations when what I should be saying is Pa...2022-12-0909 min
PartnerOps PartnerWorking in SaaS #4: Job Search Update and OffersSend us a textWorking in SaaS #4: Job Search Update and Offers Another lightning fast discussion around my job search! Tune in to learn about: The three different roles I got into process on within a couple of weeks of being laid off The disparity between three roles all tied to 'Partner Operations' How I got into those processes (hint: people make the difference!) What the processes looked like and why I didn't mind 5+ interviews for some of these roles How the offers were presented (i.e. the main components of each offer) How many...2022-11-2910 min
PartnerOps PartnerWhat the heck is Partner Ops?Send us a textThe short answer: A jack of all trades supporting a wide set of initiatives to drive Partnership process deeper into the org they serve. The long answer: It's really not well defined and will largely depend on your organizational maturity around Partnerships. This role could be responsible for the following (non-exhaustive) list of "things" within the organization: ✅ #PRM Implementation and ongoing management/enhancements (often a driving reason for the initial hire) ✅ #Reporting and #Dashboards in CRM/Reporting systems ✅ #Inbound referral process management/enhancements ✅ #Data hygiene and...2022-11-1706 min
PartnerOps PartnerWorking in SaaS #3: The Bad StuffsSend us a textWorking in SaaS is not all roses and sunshine, as we're seeing in the news week over week. One big risk for anyone in and around SaaS - layoffs. This week, I talk about my first experience with layoffs, how to spot them coming (hint: it's all about growth), and the strange upside around perception that comes from being included in the cut. Pull up a saddle and let me bend your ear for a minute... you might just enjoy it. Aaron Howertonwww.linkedin.com/in...2022-11-0909 min
District 3 PodcastEpisode #157: Wash Co. Justice of the Peace Candidates: Justin Meeks, Aaron Howerton & Dawn Cate-BonnerOn this episode we interview 3 of the Democratic candidates running for positions in the Washington County Quorum Court. Episode is now available everywhere you listen to podcasts. 2022-11-0435 min
PartnerOps PartnerWorking in SaaS #2: Great Things about SaaSSend us a textI stumbled into SaaS almost 15 years ago after working for low pay as a restaurant manager coming out of college. I got a referral in, underbid the salary, and they took a risk. I'm now here to tell you - there are great things about working in SaaS. A few things I talk about in this episode: Education requirements for SaaS work (hint: there are basically none) Career mobility Do you need to know code? (hint: nopers) Remote work and flexibility Innovation and pace of change Rewards (comp, increasing pay, et...2022-11-0209 min
PartnerOps Partnerbehind the Saas: Job Search Update (Working in SaaS #1)Send us a textYou ever wonder what a job search in SaaS looks like following a layoff? Yeah.. me either, but here we are and if talking through it offers some encouragement for the people I know recently impacted, why not be open on the journey? I was going to talk about the pros and cons of working in SaaS but after a few tries realized those were worth their own shorts, so tune in next week for those. Also, a word from one of my biggest sponsors. ;o) If you o...2022-10-2809 min
PartnerOps PartnerThe Ecosystem Mindset for Professional ServicesSend us a textIf you work in Professional Services AT a software company, your job is not about Professional Services. Yes, that's what you do each day, but you do it in service to the Total Lifetime Value of the customer. The TLV impacts retention, which impacts valuation, which impacts shareholder value. Professional Services itself is wrapped up in the Customer Acquisition Cost so there should be a vested interest in keeping those costs low. Enter the ecosystem. In todays' cast I talk about the mindset of Professional Services for Ecosystem and th...2022-10-2707 min
PartnerOps PartnerThe Best Ops Moves are Often InvisibleSend us a textOperations is almost an entirely 'behind the scenes' function for your average SaaS company. Projects in this space invariably touch 'live' environments where people are working and downtime is extremely limited or prohibited, depending on the system. The result is that most of the best moves happening in your ops ecosystem are nearly invisible to anyone outside the team, much less the company. This makes it easy for companies to undervalue operations on the whole. In this episode I ramble a bit about these invisible projects, the impact on organizations, and t...2022-10-2607 min
PartnerOps PartnerWelcome to Behind the SaaSSend us a textIn 2022, I was unexpectedly laid off from what I thought was going to be a much longer and more lucrative journey in a SaaS unicorn. This podcast is born from that time, driven to explore the unknown side of SaaS companies and the constant ebb and flow of new technology. It was originally called 'The Partner Syndicate' but... well... I changed it. I got to thinking about how many people I know that just don't understand SaaS, or even those within SaaS that still undervalue the complexity of the SaaS model a...2022-10-2401 min
PartnerOps PartnerThe Future of Partner Ops: Enter the EcosystemSend us a textDay 5️⃣ The future of #PartnerOps (hint: think #ecosystem)Time for some speculation! Where, exactly is PartnerOps heading in an ecosystem driven world? Getting to the future requires we consider a bit about the current state.#PartnerOps is not like other careers.❌ There's not a clear entry point - usually pivoting in from program management (where ops begins) or an internal transfer from another ops role.❌ There's also no clear end point - anyone ever see a C-Level Partner Ops role? Anyone? ... Bueller... Bueller.... (seriously, please comment...2022-10-2106 min
PartnerOps PartnerTips for New or Simply Worn Out Partner Ops HiresSend us a textDay 4️⃣ New #PartnerOps Hires - Tips for SuccessIf you're new to #PartnerOps or just feeling a bit lost in your current role you might benefit from a few tips on getting started that can also help an established role get re-centered in an off season.✅ Map the Partnership Processes. Go find every process tied to Partnership, write it all down, get it reviewed, and collect it into a single SOP to build from.✅ Map the Relationships. Sign up for Lucid or another charting tool and start mapping...2022-10-2009 min
PartnerOps PartnerRefining the Scope: Partner Operations v. Partner AnalystSend us a textDay 3️⃣ Refining the Scope: #PartnersOps or #BusinessAnalyst?Partner Operations, more than many other operational roles in my experience, tends to be a catchall title reflecting a deeper need for operational AND programmatic support. Operational work falls to the first few program hires trying to stand things up and by the time an Ops hire shows up on the scene there's a mixed bag of work that needs done.The difference in skills overlap but the jump back and forth from daily operational work into deep research and analysis on how...2022-10-2007 min
PartnerOps PartnerYour First Partner Ops Hire - Internal or External?Send us a textTodays Post: 2️⃣ Making Your First #PartnerOps HireYesterday (see link in comments because LinkedIn posting needs help), I covered a laundry list of things that typically fall into/around Partner Operations. The potential scope of the role combined with the timing of your first hire determines whether you look INTERNALLY or EXTERNALLY for your first partner ops role. Let's talk about the benefits and challenges of each.INTERNAL PROS✅ and CONS❌:✅ Well suited as early hire due to cost and ability to ramp with program growth✅ The know the #or...2022-10-2007 min
Bare MarriageEpisode 158: Pastors Plagiarizing: An Example Using Josh Howerton--with Scot McKnight's commentarySend us a textShould pastors be allowed to plagiarize in their sermons?I’ll be frank: I think evangelicalism has a problem with celebrity, as we talked about on last week’s podcast. And I think plagiarism is part of that celebrity. It’s rampant among pastors and authors in evangelicalism, and it allows people to give a false sense of themselves to others to boost their status. It needs to stop.Links to things mentioned:Scot McKnight's book A Church Called TOVScot McKnight's New Testament Everyday Bible...2022-09-081h 00
Keto Life SupportKeto Year 5 and Beyond With AD KetoEpisode 114: Kim sits down with Aaron Duprey, aka AD Keto, to talk about what Keto looks like long-term. Aaron’s Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.d.keto/?hl=en YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/HighFatHighFun/videos Keto Crossover Hits eBook: https://highfathighfun.com/kch Blog: https://highfathighfun.com/blog/tag/A.D.+Keto Chef Michael's website: https://www.chef-michael.com/home Kim's Links: Starting Keto: https://youtu.be/KQ5xgN5Xo7c Cookbooks: https://www.kimhowerton.com/cook...2022-06-3043 min
Two C's with a PodMahomes is ”just a guy” with special guestDave PilcherThere have been a lot of bad ideas on this show, but this one ranks up there. Andy is trying to squash the beef between Matt and great friend of the show Dave Pilcher. We like Dave, nay we love Dave. But we see the world a bit differently when it comes to football. Andy insisted the microphones be muted and allow Dave uninterrupted time in an effort to squash this beef. #BroncoFanDave comes on and shares with us:
Patrick Mahomes is “just another guy”
Andy Reid could have won the same amount of games with at least 6 othe...2022-02-251h 03
Second ChancePrison Love - Laynara FerreriaFalling in love with a prisoner who will never be free is not the typical fantasy of most women growing up. However, love knows no limits. When Laynara and Aaron Howerton fell in love, they knew it would change both of their lives forever. Aaron has joined us previously for two episodes, discussing his life in prison. Now we hear from his fiancee on the outside - Laynara - about the harsh realities of dating an inmate.Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2021-08-0450 minSecond ChancePrison Love - Laynara FerreriaFalling in love with a prisoner who will never be free is not the typical fantasy of most women growing up. However, love knows no limits. When Laynara and Aaron Howerton fell in love, they knew it would change both of their lives forever. Aaron has joined us previously for two episodes, discussing his life in prison. Now we hear from his fiancee on the outside - Laynara - about the harsh realities of dating an inmate.Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2021-08-0450 minSecond Chance27 Years in prison and counting - Aaron HowertonA follow-up episode to Episode 31: Musical Murderer. From inside Monroe Correctional Facility, Aaron Howerton talks of hope and the future, despite being given a life sentence without the possibility of parole at just 19 years old. Howerton talks about finding love from his 6-by-9-foot cell, injustice and the criminal justice system in America. Aaron sheds light on life on the inside. Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2021-06-0255 minSecond Chance27 Years in prison and counting - Aaron HowertonA follow-up episode to Episode 31: Musical Murderer. From inside Monroe Correctional Facility, Aaron Howerton talks of hope and the future, despite being given a life sentence without the possibility of parole at just 19 years old. Howerton talks about finding love from his 6-by-9-foot cell, injustice and the criminal justice system in America. Aaron sheds light on life on the inside. Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2021-06-0255 minSecond ChanceThe Musical Murderer - Aaron HowertonAaron Howerton grew up in Washington, USA, with his father, and lived a life of torment from his peers as he dealt with his diagnosis of juvenile Parkinson’s disease, as well as living in a tent and showering under a garden hose. As time progressed, Aaron turned to a life of crime in order to survive, which eventually led to the robbery and murder of a 21-year-old man. And like that, at 19 years of age, Aaron was sent to prison for the rest of his life. His passion for music gives him an escape from the violent, co...2021-03-2451 minSecond ChanceThe Musical Murderer - Aaron HowertonAaron Howerton grew up in Washington, USA, with his father, and lived a life of torment from his peers as he dealt with his diagnosis of juvenile Parkinson’s disease, as well as living in a tent and showering under a garden hose. As time progressed, Aaron turned to a life of crime in order to survive, which eventually led to the robbery and murder of a 21-year-old man. And like that, at 19 years of age, Aaron was sent to prison for the rest of his life. His passion for music gives him an escape from the violent, co...2021-03-2451 min
Sara Gonzales UnfilteredEp 278 | MSNBC Now Likes Guns? | Guests: Jason Howerton, Justin Haskins, Aaron ColenOn this episode of The News and Why It Matters, the panel talks about MSNBC inadvertently becoming 2nd Amendment advocates and the socialism that is causing Venezuela to collapse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-05-0247 min
SelfieTHE ULTIMATE GIFT GUIDE FOR MEN AND KIDS | SELFIE EPISODE 62We’re talking about great gifts for husbands, boyfriends, dads, grandparents, coaches and kids . . . as well as some items you might want to put on your own wishlist. We’ve got recommendations on travel, books, candles, and skincare stuff, as an assortment of unique gifts for the younger set.
FOR MEN
Travel
The ABLE Alem leather passport holder is a great gift for anyone who travels a lot, and it’s made by artisans in Ethiopia who are earning a fair wage.
Pinch Provisions Travel Set has everything you could need in a tiny little bag. It’s great for emergencies...2018-12-1745 min
Work Life Play with Aaron McHughRage Against the Minivan with Kristen Howerton #75I had this nutty idea of asking Kristen Howerton if she would be willing to do a podcast interview while riding in a Surrey with the Fringe on Top (picture a four-wheeled carriage with each person peddling) on the Newport Beach, CA boardwalk. She said, That sounds fun. Boom. Game On. In this episode, we got real...I mean really real. We covered a big range of topics as we bounced through conversations about... the pressure of perfectionism, the pretty veneer of social media, social justice, realistic expectations about life and parenting, vulnerability, the political election, LGBT community and reli...2016-07-2900 min
AutoSuccess: The PodcastAutoSuccess 415 - Aaron HowertonInteractive 360's Aaron Howerton discusses ways to smooth the transition to a new CRM at your dealership.2015-10-2315 min
AutoSuccess: The PodcastAutoSuccess 415 - Aaron HowertonInteractive 360's Aaron Howerton discusses ways to smooth the transition to a new CRM at your dealership.2015-10-2315 min
AcmecastAcmecast #120 - The People v. Acmecast!Jermaine, Jody, Michael and special guest Jay Howerton throw all sense of jurisprudence to the wind as they preside over the cases of Acme Comics v. the Big Bang Theory over whether or not females are a welcome and not at all unusual demographic of the comics community, Damian Wayne v. Kid Loki to decide the right bodyguard in times of strife, and Superior Spider-man v. the Haters on whether or not it makes any sense, I guess!
Show Notes:
Correction from Acmecast #119: Thought Aaron Sorkin was arrested for possession of hallucinogenric mushrooms, rock cocaince and...2013-01-1151 min