Shows
Content BlocksHow to build a SaaS brand strategy that actually sticks (with the DRMG team)If your product is different, your messaging should be too. But most SaaS companies still sound the same.In this episode, Joe sits down with Dustin Robertson and Mike Geraci, partners at DRMG and architects behind standout SaaS brand strategies like Mosaic’s. They unpack the difference between category design and traditional positioning, explain why it’s critical to anchor your messaging in human outcomes, and walk through DRMG’s RISE framework—from research to go-to-market execution. Whether you're building from scratch or rethinking your narrative, this episode offers a practical look at how to make your brand ac...2025-05-0143 minContent BlocksConcepts eat gimmicks for breakfastIn this episode, we dive into the problem of B2B marketers trying to copy the success of content programs and series like Hot Ones.We look at the difference between gimmicks and concepts. And then look at the ins and outs of what makes the Hot Ones concept so successful. Originality, creativity, and enthusiasm all play a role. But you don't need a Hot Ones level concept to succeed. Take lessons where you can and come up with a program that works for you.(And if you just want to do a...2025-04-2913 minContent BlocksBarebones SEO fundamentalsIn this episode, Joe shares insights on the right approach to SEO for companies that are just beginning. Key points include understanding the levels of SEO investment, the importance of laying a solid technical foundation, prioritizing bottom-funnel keywords, and building a comprehensive content strategy. Joe emphasizes that while advanced SEO tactics are often showcased by experts, they may not be appropriate for startups or new companies. Instead, focusing on the basics, ensuring the website is indexable, and creating relevant, conversion-oriented content are crucial first steps.00:59 Understanding the Basics of SEO03:07 Technical SEO Fundamentals2025-04-2411 minContent BlocksThe content snowballIn this episode, Joe Michalowski discusses the concept of 'content snowballs' in the SaaS industry, emphasizing the importance of long-term content strategies over immediate results. Drawing on insights from Jay Clouse's Creator Science podcast and an interview with James Clear, the author of 'Atomic Habits,' Joe explains how the visible success of a campaign or piece of content is often the result of consistent effort and planning executed months or even years in advance. The episode covers why leadership teams often misunderstand the role of brand awareness and the cumulative impact of content efforts...2025-04-2309 minContent BlocksThe 4 types of input engines for quality content at scaleIn this episode, Joe Michalowski discusses the crucial role of quality inputs in creating impactful content, inspired by a Stephen King quote. He recounts his own journey from a novice freelance writer to a seasoned content creator, emphasizing the importance of gathering valuable insights. Four primary strategies for building robust input engines are explored: leveraging personal experience, tapping into internal expertise, developing a podcast network, and creating a contributor network. These methods provide a comprehensive approach to amassing the necessary knowledge to produce high-quality content at scale.00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Inputs00:41 My Ow...2025-04-2216 minContent BlocksThe 80/20 rule of Jon Hamm (and content)This episode discusses Jon Hamm's career post-Mad Men and draws parallels to effective content marketing strategies. Despite perceptions, Hamm has been consistently working in various roles. Using Hamm's career as a metaphor, the talk emphasizes the importance of the 80/20 rule in content strategy—highlighting that while big, splashy moments (20%) are valuable, they must be supported by consistent, ongoing efforts (80%) to truly drive success. Key advice includes organizing content around consistent themes and ensuring continuous delivery across various channels to maintain momentum and relevance.00:00 Introduction: The 80/20 Rule of John Ham02:04 Th...2025-04-2107 minContent BlocksA never-ending ideation exerciseJoe Michalowski addresses the common concern of content marketers: "Do we have enough content?" He outlines a systematic approach to ideation, helping marketers continually generate strategic content by focusing on audience pain points and responsibilities.Key Discussion Points:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:13 Is there such thing as enough content?01:58 Foundational ground rules for content ideation08:14 Day-in-the-life exercise for ideation13:19 Generating primary topics for ideas17:59 Turning pain points into content ideas20:32 Recap and final thoughtsMemorable Quotes:"Content strategy does not equal your LinkedIn posting strategy.""Repeat with intentionality, not just because you think...2025-03-2824 minContent BlocksSimple ways to approach positioning and messaging from a content seatI explore the critical overlap between content marketing and product marketing, focusing specifically on positioning and messaging. Discover a straightforward approach for content marketers to quickly build effective positioning and messaging frameworks, even when official documentation is lacking.Key Discussion Points:02:36 Building positioning and pessaging from ccratch04:10 Key questions for effective content positioning09:27 Understanding the Pain-Claim-Gain framework11:14 Applying messaging frameworks to all contentMemorable Quotes:"If you dive headfirst into content creation without nailing down your positioning and messaging, you might waste a lot of time and energy.""Everything you're doing when asking...2025-03-2116 min
Content LogisticsWhat Actually Matters for SEO in a Small Marketing TeamSEO doesn’t have to be complicated. In this episode of Content Logistics, host Baylee Gunnell sits down with Joe Michalowski, Senior Marketing Advisor at Marketers in Demand, to break down the essentials of SEO—without the jargon. They tackle what actually moves the needle, from optimizing content for search engines to structuring pages for better rankings. Joe shares why businesses should focus on writing valuable content first and worry about keywords later.They also discuss the biggest SEO misconceptions, like whether publishing on a strict schedule matters or if more content automatically means better rankings. Joe expl...2025-03-171h 04Content BlocksTrailer: Introduction to Content BlocksYou've found Content Blocks! However you made it here, I'm thrilled to have you. This is just a quick 5-minute memo from me where I introduce the idea behind Content Blocks, why I'm planning to focus on B2B SaaS content, and what you can expect from episodes moving forward.As a quick introduction of myself, my name is Joe Michalowski and I've been creating content for B2B SaaS companies for over 10 years. A lot has changed, but there's really nothing I love more in my career than consistently creating content that is deeply...2025-03-1505 min
Tech QualifiedThe Importance of a Documented Channel PlanIn this episode of Tech Qualified, host Justin Brown talks with Joe Michalowski, Head of Client Services at New North, about the importance of documenting marketing strategies. They discuss the value of creating detailed plans for various marketing channels.Justin and Joe explain that a written plan keeps everyone aligned, from internal teams to client stakeholders. It provides clarity on goals, target audiences, and metrics for tracking success. They also delve into the risks of neglecting documentation, such as inconsistent brand messaging, missed business goals, and difficulty in measuring marketing ROI.Joe emphasizes the need...2024-11-1333 min
Content HeadWhat brands can learn from creators with Paul Barnhurst, The FP&A GuyIn the latest episode of Content Head, host Joe Michalowski welcomes Paul Barnhurst, also known as the FP&A Guy. Paul shares his journey from a finance professional at American Express to a successful full-time content creator and influencer. With a focus on financial planning and analysis (FP&A), Paul has built a substantial audience through his insightful content, training sessions, and three popular podcasts.Paul discusses the importance of learning from creators to enhance marketing efforts, emphasizing the need for content teams to stay relevant and engaging. He highlights the challenges and rewards of building a...2024-08-2842 minContent HeadThe Thing About Gated ContentIn the latest episode of Content Head, Joe Michalowski shares his thoughts and insights regarding the ongoing debate about the value of gated content. While some argue it is no longer effective, his experiences show otherwise. Joe highlights his success with gated content at Mosaic, where a particular asset, the SaaS Metrics Cheat Sheet, significantly outperformed other materials in terms of downloads, pipeline generation, and customer conversions.Joe dives into the specifics of why the SaaS Metrics Cheat Sheet was so successful, attributing its performance to the targeted SEO strategy that brought in a large volume of...2024-08-1512 min
Recorded Content - Helping B2B marketers use a podcast for content marketingThe Thing About Gated ContentIn the latest episode of Content Head, Joe Michalowski shares his thoughts and insights regarding the ongoing debate about the value of gated content. While some argue it is no longer effective, his experiences show otherwise. Joe highlights his success with gated content at Mosaic, where a particular asset, the SaaS Metrics Cheat Sheet, significantly outperformed other materials in terms of downloads, pipeline generation, and customer conversions.Joe dives into the specifics of why the SaaS Metrics Cheat Sheet was so successful, attributing its performance to the targeted SEO strategy that brought in a large volume of...2024-08-1412 minContent HeadBuilding Resilient Content PlansIn this episode of Content Head, host Joe Michalowski discusses the challenges content marketers face amid layoffs, hiring freezes, and budget cuts. Joe emphasizes the importance of building resilient content plans that can withstand scrutiny from executives looking for direct ROI. The conversation dives into the frustrations of implementing diverse content strategies—such as blogs, SEO, podcasts, and webinars—only to see unsatisfactory results, and how executives often misjudge the efficacy of these tactics when budgets are tight.Joe highlights the necessity of creating a cascading content strategy that leverages various channels for maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness. By r...2024-08-0113 minContent HeadExhausting your topic bucketsIn this episode of Content Head, Joe Michalowski dives into the importance of creating comprehensive and meaningful content that goes beyond superficial guides. He shares his personal experiences and insights on how the perspective on content changes as one moves from agency work to in-house roles. Joe emphasizes the need for depth and relevance in content creation, challenging the notion that a business can ever have "enough" content.Joe recounts a pivotal moment in his career when his boss questioned the necessity of further content creation. He uses this experience to illustrate the importance of continuous content...2024-07-1719 minContent HeadPlanning content for multiple verticals with Jennifer Harris of MindStream AnalyticsIn this episode of "Content Head," host Joe Michalowski welcomes Jennifer Harris, Director of Marketing at MindStream Analytics, as the first guest. The discussion dives into the challenges and strategies of creating content for multiple verticals. Jennifer shares her approach of prioritizing evergreen content while also addressing immediate trends and needs from various industries. She emphasizes the importance of listening to customer feedback to develop relevant content and highlights the dual strategy of producing webinars, blog posts, and case studies that cater to both short-term demands and long-lasting knowledge resources.Jennifer elaborates on the role of evergreen...2024-06-2431 minContent HeadNavigating from Why to How: Involving Experts in ContentIn this enlightening episode of "Content Head," host Joe Michalowski dives into the crucial shift from discussing the "why" to exploring the "how" of integrating subject matter experts into marketing content. Inspired by a LinkedIn post from Haris Spahic, Joe challenges the common stagnation in the why phase and pushes towards actionable strategies for content enhancement.Joe introduces four distinct strategies for successfully involving experts, drawing on his extensive experience at New North and previous roles. He shares insights on leveraging founder networks, collaborating with sales and customer success teams, and the simple yet often overlooked tactic...2024-05-3017 minContent HeadGetting Content Fundamentals RightIn the latest Content Head episode, Joe Michalowski takes listeners on a journey through his transition from an in-house content role to agency life. He shares an enlightening view on the common pitfalls of content creation, emphasizing the importance of starting with actionable steps rather than getting lost in grand aspirations. Joe highlights the need to focus on solving immediate customer pain points, laying a foundation for content that genuinely resonates.Joe candidly discusses the allure of becoming a content giant, citing examples like The Ringer and HubSpot, and the unrealistic expectations they set for newcomers. He...2024-04-1114 minTech QualifiedHow to Build a Marketing Engine through Content with Joe MichalowskiIn this episode of Tech Qualified, hosts Justin Brown and Meredith Metsker welcome Joe Michalowski from New North. They dive into the evolving landscape of B2B marketing, discussing the critical shift from in-house roles to agency settings. Joe shares his unique perspective on adapting strategies for client success in a competitive digital environment.Joe emphasizes the importance of leveraging content to address customer pain points. He outlines effective methods for creating content that resonates with target audiences, highlighting the need for authenticity and value-driven messaging. The discussion also explores how small marketing teams can punch above thei...2024-03-1247 minContent HeadYou're More than the Words Guy/GalIn the latest Content Head episode, host Joe Michalowski discusses the challenges of explaining the role of a content marketer to family and friends, especially during the holiday season. He shares a personal anecdote about his family's long standing joke regarding the ambiguity of his father's job, drawing a parallel to his own experiences in content marketing. Joe reflects on his initial simplistic explanation of his job as "the words guy," a phrase that, while effective in avoiding lengthy discussions, eventually became a limiting self-identification.Joe then dives into the importance of understanding and articulating the value...2024-01-0313 min
Run the NumbersE26: Breaking Down Annual PlanningToday we're flipping the script: CJ is the guest, and he's demystifying annual planning on The Role Forward podcast. CJ and host Joe Michalowski dive into the intricacies of annual planning, the practical steps of strategic planning (breaking down the process into digestible stages), and the complexities of financial forecasting in the startup ecosystem. Tropic is the next-generation Procurement Platform that’s helping modern CFOs take control of their budgets and bottom line, head to www.tropicapp.io/metrics.CJ's insights offer valuable lessons on balancing ambition with the realities of startup finance, providing a blueprint for listeners na...2024-01-0347 minContent HeadDid You Do Your Homework?In this episode of Content Head, the host, Joe Michalowski dives into the critical aspect of understanding your audience in content marketing. The episode begins with a personal story, illustrating the profound impact of audience awareness and the importance of doing thorough homework. The narrative emphasizes how well-researched content can significantly enhance audience connection and engagement.The discussion shifts to the concept of Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) expansion, particularly in startup environments. The host explains how expanding your ICP can bring new challenges and opportunities for content strategists. The key takeaway is the necessity of adapting content...2023-12-1811 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastBreaking Down Annual Planning with CJ Gustafson of Mostly MetricsIn this episode of The Role Forward, host Joe Michalowski welcomes CJ Gustafson, CFO of PartsTech and the mind behind Mostly Metrics. They dive into the intricacies of annual planning, a critical period for finance professionals. CJ shares his unique journey from M&A consulting to private equity and finally to his current role, emphasizing the importance of understanding business models and resource allocation.The conversation shifts to the practical steps of strategic planning. CJ outlines a three-month timeline for annual planning, stressing the collaboration between CEOs and CFOs. He breaks down the process into...2023-11-2746 minContent HeadWill Searchers Ever Be Satisfied?In this episode of Content Head, host Joe Michalowski dives into the nuances of B2B content and SEO. He begins by discussing research from Nigel Stevens and John Collins, highlighting the importance of Google as a primary information source in the software buying process. Joe questions the notion of 'satisfied searchers' and points out a startling indifference towards content on company websites.Joe then critiques the trend of AI-powered SEO tools in content creation, sharing a case study of a competitor who boosted traffic through systematic content but failed to engage meaningfully with their audience. He...2023-11-1314 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastMapping the Path to Profitability with Kristian Marquez, CEO of FinStrat ManagementIn the latest episode of The Role Forward podcast, host Joe Michalowski sits down with Kristian Marquez, founder of FinStrat Management. Kristian shares his diverse journey in the finance sector, highlighting his experiences from being part of a billion-dollar IPO to the challenges faced in a telemedicine startup.The duo dives deep into the evolving landscape of startup profitability, especially for VC-backed ventures. They discuss the shifting paradigms from a growth-centric mindset to a more balanced approach that emphasizes cash preservation. Kristian introduces the "Rule of 40," a pivotal metric combining growth percentage with EBITDA margin, suggesting its...2023-11-1345 minContent HeadThe Problem with Blog Post IntrosIn this episode of Content Head, Joe Michalowski dives deep into the pitfalls of clichéd content hooks and the importance of genuine engagement. Drawing from his college experiences, Joe highlights the frequent use of broad and uninspiring introductions in both academic papers and the content marketing world. He critiques the overreliance on SEO, which often results in "commodity content" that lacks depth and unique insights.Joe emphasizes the need to resonate with the audience, referencing an impactful sales pitch by Drift as a prime example. The pitch effectively utilized imagery and a concise message to connect w...2023-10-2415 minContent HeadReframing the case for SEOIn this episode of Content Head, host Joe Michalowski dives into the world of SEO, debunking the common belief that it takes at least six months to see returns. While SEO experts often promise quicker results, the key lies in understanding the maturity of your website. Joe argues that, in the initial stages, it's reasonable to expect several months before witnessing significant SEO returns.Reflecting on his own experience at Mosaic Marketing, Joe recalls the early days of content distribution resembling a door-to-door campaign, lacking a robust marketing infrastructure. They relied on qualitative feedback from prospects, emphasizing...2023-10-1016 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastExploring AI in Finance with Todd Spartz, CFO of LinkLiveIn the latest episode of The Role Forward, Joe Michalowski welcomes Todd Spartz, the CFO at LinkLive. Todd dives deep into his rich background in the tech world. From semiconductor equipment manufacturing to networking, and from web analytics to web advertising, Todd's journey is vast. As he transitioned to enterprise SaaS, he shares the insights and challenges faced, especially around the newest hottest topic - AI.For anyone keen on understanding the intricacies of the tech world and the journey of a seasoned professional like Todd, this episode is a must-listen.Guest-at-a-Glance2023-10-0247 minContent HeadEmbrace the Untrained JournalistIn this episode of Content Head, Joe Michalowski shares his unexpected journey into the realm of content marketing. Starting off with a title of "brand journalist" straight out of college, Joe candidly shares his initial uncertainties about the role, given his lack of formal journalistic training. From his college days transitioning from a chemistry major to an English major, to his thrilling internship covering the Pawtucket PawSox for a sports magazine, Joe's path was anything but linear.As he navigated the challenges of content marketing, Joe emphasizes the invaluable lessons he learned by embracing the role of...2023-09-2622 minContent HeadEverything works...now what?In this episode of Content Head, Joe Michalowski dives deep into the world of content strategy. He emphasizes the importance of understanding what truly works for your audience and business. Webinars, for instance, have proven effective for many, but it's crucial to find the overlap between what works for you and your customer.Joe touches on the concept of Wabi-sabi, urging listeners to find their unique advantage. He also references the "Ron Swanson theory" from Parks and Recreation: it's better to excel in one area than to spread oneself too thin. The key is to focus and...2023-09-1316 minContent HeadThink Wabi-SabiIn this episode of Content Head, Joe Michalowski dives deep into the ever-evolving debate of quality versus quantity in content marketing. While many marketers grapple with the balance, Joe questions the very essence of what "quality content" truly means. Drawing inspiration from a thought-provoking article by Amanda Navidad, he challenges listeners to look beyond traditional metrics and consider a more existential approach to content evaluation.Joe also shares insights from his rich background in content marketing, emphasizing the importance of understanding the audience's needs and crafting content that resonates. He underscores the significance of authenticity and the...2023-08-2917 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastThe Collaborative Finance Function with Zack McCarty, Director of FP&A at QwickIn this episode of The Role Forward, Joe Michalowski hosts Zack McCarty, Director of FP&A at Qwick. McCarty shares insights on the importance of collaborative planning and stakeholder buy-in in the food and beverage industry. He emphasizes the transformative power of basic financial information in driving valuable change within a company.McCarty discusses the challenges and strategies of planning for Qwick, a two-sided marketplace for on-demand staffing. He highlights the necessity of balancing the onboarding of workers and businesses, and the seasonal nature of their business. He also delves into the complexities of managing expenses across...2023-08-2849 minContent HeadKick the candy bar contentIn this episode of Content Head, host Joe Michalowski dives into the world of lean content teams in the B2B SaaS industry. He explores the transition from "candy bar content" to a more robust content engine, drawing from his experiences at Mosaic.Joe shares Mosaic's unique approach to content strategy. With limited resources, they focused on interview-based thought leadership content. Their secret weapon? Access to the CFO Advisory Board, a group of industry leaders from companies like Zendesk and Dropbox.This access was leveraged to create compelling content for Mosaic's brand-new website. It's a...2023-08-1415 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastThe State of Strategic Finance in Q3 2023In this episode of The Role Forward, Joe Michalowski hosts a deep dive into strategic finance with Bijan Moallemi and Joe Garafalo, co-founders of Mosaic. The trio unpacks the evolving landscape of business and the increasing complexity that demands more from finance professionals.Joe emphasizes the importance of investing in finance functions, especially in today's economy. He illustrates how strategic finance operates in real time, allowing businesses to know exactly where they stand and where they're heading. This proactive approach enables teams to assess ROI on significant expenditures and make informed decisions.Bijan and Joe...2023-08-1442 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastThe State of Venture Funding in 2023 with OMERS VenturesIn this episode of The Role Forward, Joe Michalowski hosts a deep dive into the world of venture funding. The guests — Joe Garafalo, Marissa Moore, and Eugene Lee — share their insights and experiences. The conversation revolves around the importance of good financial modeling practices, the current state of venture funding, and the future outlook. The guests also discuss the importance of understanding the customer base, assessing risks, and the role of metrics in investor conversations.The episode concludes with advice for companies planning to raise funds in the future. The key takeaways include the need to b...2023-07-3148 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastBoard and Investor Communications Q&A with XYZ Capital, Spiff, and MosaicIn this episode of The Role Forward, host Joe Michalowski brings together a panel of industry leaders for a Q&A-style discussion. The guests include Bijan Moallemi, Co-Founder and CEO at Mosaic, Chauncey Kerr Hamilton, Partner at XYZ, and Jeron Paul, CEO of Spiff. The conversation revolves around board management, investor communications, and effective strategies for keeping the board up to speed.The panelists delve into the intricacies of board meetings, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and understanding the 'why' behind business numbers. They also discuss the CFO's role in maintaining great attention to detail and the...2023-07-1754 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastModern Finance Tech Stack Q&A with Spiff, XYZ Capital, and MosaicIn this episode of The Role Forward, host Joe Michalowski brings together a panel of industry leaders for a Q&A-style discussion. The guests include Bijan Moallemi, Co-Founder and CEO at Mosaic, Chauncey Kerr Hamilton, Partner at XYZ, and Jeron Paul, CEO of Spiff. The conversation revolves around board management, investor communications, and effective strategies for keeping the board up to speed.The panelists delve into the intricacies of board meetings, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and understanding the 'why' behind business numbers. They also discuss the CFO's role in maintaining great attention to detail and the...2023-07-0354 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastMaking Sense of SaaS Billing Data with Brian Campbell, Co-Founder of MosaicIn this episode of The Role Forward, Joe Michalowski hosts Brian Campbell, the co-founder at Mosaic. The two delve deep into the world of strategic finance, discussing the challenges and solutions of handling high-volume data.Brian shares his experience working with Stripe, a platform often used by B2C and product-led growth companies. He highlights the rigidity of billing systems and the difficulty of changing historical data. The conversation then shifts to the importance of data cleanliness and setting up efficient processes to make sense of billing data.The podcast wraps up with Brian emphasizing...2023-06-1945 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance Podcast30-60-90 Plan for New Finance Leaders with Jervis Williams, CFO of Second Front SystemsIn this episode, our host Joe Michalowski speaks with Jervis Williams, the CFO of Second Front Systems. Jervis shares his experiences and lessons learned from his journey as a finance professional, particularly during his first 90 days as Second Front's new CFO. He highlights the importance of establishing a solid finance team early on and engaging with stakeholders, including the board, to ensure a smooth onboarding process.Jervis also discusses the benefits of hiring finance professionals early in a startup's lifecycle. He emphasizes the significance of financial discipline and good hygiene within the organization, along with the external...2023-05-2250 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow to Raise Debt as a Startup with Jeremy Tsui, Co-Founder and CEO of FinleyMany of today's most innovative companies rely on debt capital to reach their full potential, and debt capital can be the difference between hypergrowth and stagnation.But capital providers and borrowers are stuck with legacy systems, which means slow transactions, disjointed processes, and limited visibility. In this episode of The Role Forward, Jeremy Tsui, the Co-Founder and CEO of Finley, a company that offers software to accelerate the pace of capital, gets into the importance of capital strategy and managing capital. Jeremy and our host Joe Michalowski discuss raising debt versus equity, the process of r...2023-05-0835 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow Finance Can Help Drive Customer Retention with Nick Tarnoff, VP Finance, SupportLogicIn times when a growth-at-all-costs mentality, companies funneled as much money as possible into customer acquisition. Retention was always important, but not the primary focus.But now, as companies get more cautious with their capital, there's a brighter spotlight on customer success and retention. Great customer retention is key to efficient, sustainable growth.In this episode of The Role Forward, Nick Tarnoff, the VP of Finance at SupportLogic, gets into the importance of customer retention and how to improve it. Nick and our host Joe Michalowski discuss the metrics for retention analysis and some of...2023-04-2442 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastGetting Off the Ad Hoc Analysis Treadmill with Joel Blachman, Operations and Finance Lead at Amper TechnologiesAd hoc analysis is a type of analysis that is performed on an as-needed basis without a predefined plan or structure. Ad hoc analysis is often used when there is a need to investigate a particular issue or answer a specific question, and it can be a powerful tool for gaining insights into data quickly and efficiently. But ad hoc analysis can be time-consuming and challenging without automation, especially if you are dealing with large datasets. In this episode of The Role Forward, Joel Blachman, an operations and finance lead at Amper Technologies, gets into th...2023-04-1040 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow to Manage Your Accounting Data Hygiene with Numeric Co-Founder and CEO Parker GilbertEpisode SummaryNo matter your industry, clean data results in well-informed decisions. By keeping your data clean and accurate, you save time from searching for answers and reconciliations and can spend more time diving into the “why” behind your numbers and making actionable insights. But for companies who experience hypergrowth or need to make a switch to a new source system, how do you effectively clean your company’s data? In this episode of The Role Forward podcast, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Parker Gilbert, the CEO and co-found...2023-03-2743 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastFundraising in a Down Market with Scott Stouffer, CEO and Founder of scaleMattersInvestors provide vital funds so that companies can achieve their next level of growth, whether it’s making the next important version of a product or a key hire that will unlock the company’s potential even further. But in a time of economic uncertainty, where we see layoffs, budget freezes, and falling tech industry stock prices, venture capital investors are putting the brakes on aggressive funding for early-stage growth companies. According to a Crunchbase report, in the last quarter of 2022, investments in startup companies in North America fell by 63% compared to the same period a year earli...2023-03-1342 min
Mike DropSelection Sunday Reaction Show: Pitt, WVU, PSU All Make NCAA TournamentWith Pitt, West Virginia and Penn State all making it in the 2023 NCAA Men's Tournament, that means every major college site throughout the Sports Now family of networks is represented.
Mike Asti guides George Michalowski, Ethan Bock and Joe Smeltzer through a live reaction show to discuss the seed lines for both WVU and PSU and Pitt having to advance beyond the First Four to reach the true field.
2023-03-131h 12
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow to Ensure a Successful NetSuite Implementation with Edwine Alphonse, Controller at RampEpisode SummaryNetSuite implementation is a large, challenging project, as it includes many different phases and complex steps. But an experienced implementation partner can make all the difference. In this episode of The Role Forward podcast, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Edwine Alphonse, a controller at Ramp. They talk about the biggest challenges with NetSuite implementation, tips for tackling some common issues, and the importance of cleaning your data before you start the process.##Guest-at-a-Glance💡 Name: Edwine Alphonse💡 What sh...2023-02-2744 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastFinancial Transformation in Finance’s Golden Age with Chris Ortega of Fresh FP&AThe finance team is essential for any business — especially as the company grows. And while in recent years the role of the finance team has evolved from a stereotypical back-office scorekeeping function toward a forward-thinking strategic partner, the process of financial transformation and implementation within the business is complex — and sometimes, it can fail.In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Chris Ortega, the CEO of Fresh FP&A, which provides fractional CFO and advisory services that support the strategies, tactics, and tools a business needs to transform and grow...2023-02-1348 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastBuilding a Career in and Beyond Finance, Former Teampay COO Peter NesbittThere's something special about a career in finance. Because you sit at the intersection of all data in the organization and collaborate with so many different functions, your job in finance can become the perfect stepping stone to a wide variety of career paths. But how do you maneuver your way from day one to where you want to take your career?In this episode of The Role Forward podcast, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Peter Nesbitt, an early-stage startup advisor, investor, and founder who previously rose through the ranks of finance to an executive seat. They...2023-01-2345 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastTaking Your Financial Storytelling to the Decision-Makers' Table with Mosaic CEO, Bijan MoallemiFinance can be a strategic partner and growth catalyst for department and executive leaders. But many organizations still see finance teams as a back-office department, simply delivering financial reports. If companies really want sustainable growth, that mindset needs to change. This episode of The Role Forward revisits the presentation Mosaic CEO and co-founder, Bijan Moallemi, gave at SaaS Metrics Palooza in October 2022. Bijan and our host Joe Michalowski discuss how you can get the most out of financial storytelling vs. financial reporting. They also cover how to take your storytelling to the next level by em...2022-12-2629 min
Fully Occupied66 - Lauren Bahr Guests on The Role Forward - "Death to Spreadsheets?" | Hosted by Joe MichalowskiLauren Bahr, VP of Finance at Occupier, was recently a guest on The Role Forward Podcast, hosted by Joe Michalowski from Mosaic. Lauren talks about why people still use spreadsheets and Excel, despite technological advances. She also discusses how to keep the finance and accounting professions alive. Tune in to learn why the future of finance and accounting is all about automation and how to optimize your lease accounting and management processes leveraging technology.
Disclosure: This episode originally aired on The Role Forward Podcast on November 28th, 2022.2022-12-1445 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastThe Heuristics of Forecasting with Brian Weisberg, CFO at TideliftForecasting is essential for every team, and it involves tracking key performance indicators and financial metrics to measure each team's success. But many people don’t discuss best practices, especially when you begin to add headcount into the mix.Our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Brian Weisberg, the CFO at Tidelift, back to The Role Forward podcast. While they work through departmental headcount planning, Joe and Brian also discuss the importance of understanding the business’s goals, why you need to be realistic with expectations, and why companies should invest early in a financial position.Links Refe...2022-12-1240 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastDeath to Spreadsheets? Tracking the Way to Finance’s Future in Automation with Lauren Bahr of OccupierNo one denies Excel’s contribution to the business world and how it took operations to the next level. However, it’s time to admit that there are use cases that have outgrown spreadsheets and can make the lives of finance professionals easier. Whether spreadsheets will soon become part of the past is a burning topic among finance professionals across various industries. In this episode of The Role Forward, Joe Michalowski chats with Lauren Bahr, the VP of finance at Occupier, a lease management solution that breaks down the silos between finance, real estate, and facilities departments. They...2022-11-2845 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastThe Rapid Growth of Third-Gen FP&A Tools: The FP&A Guy, Paul BarnhurstTechnology is always evolving, and over the last few years we’ve seen rapid advancement of third-gen tools. But these third-gen tools are still evolving. In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Paul Barnhurst, the founder of The FP&A Guy. They talk about the gaps in third-gen FP&A tools, why MS Excel is not going anywhere anytime soon, and the four pillars of FP&A tool evaluation that will help you scale your company.Guest-at-a-Glance💡 Name: Paul Barnhurst💡 What he does: He's...2022-11-0746 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastA Complete Guide to Headcount Planning: Assemble Co-Founder, Enrique EsclusaFor SaaS companies, headcount amounts to 70% of operating expenses. If finance dives straight into the numbers without keeping the company’s short- and long-term goals in mind when headcount planning, it spells imminent disaster with misforecasts and errors that can take months, if not years, to resolve. In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Enrique Esclusa, co-founder of Assemble. Enrique and Joe get into headcount planning and compensation strategies, diving deep into the disadvantages of using spreadsheets and key pain points of workforce planning.Guest-at-a-Glance2022-10-2446 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastThe Most Interesting Conversation on SaaS Tax Compliance with Paddle VP of Finance, Daniëlle KeevenTax compliance is not everyone’s cup of tea, and it’s often underappreciated and overlooked — until it’s down to the wire for SaaS companies who have received warnings about being audited.Tax compliance needs to be more top of mind for SaaS leaders who want to truly embrace strategic, sustainable growth and expansion. In this episode of The Role Forward podcast, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Daniëlle Keeven, the VP of finance at Paddle. They chat about the importance of tax compliance and subscription legislation for tech companies, how to perform audits effectivel...2022-10-1141 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastBuild a SaaS Operational Model People Actually Use — Sprig Head of Finance, Jenny JaoFinance is often perceived as a back office function. But getting out of the back office to collaborate with other departments within an organization is a prerequisite for business success. In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski chats with Jenny Jao, the head of finance at Sprig, to discuss what it takes to build a financial model collaboratively.Jenny shares what it was like building an operating model from the bottom up and the steps involved in the process. Jenny and Joe also discuss headcount planning, why it’s such a to...2022-09-2644 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow Organizational Transparency Creates Trust at the Workplace: ChartHop CFO, Matt WolfOrganizational transparency is one of many buzzwords in the business world, but it can be a game changer for any company that adopts it. Executive leaders shouldn’t be afraid of being transparent with employees because it can lead to greater motivation, more trust, and improved productivity.However, it can be a struggle to find the sweet spot between sharing and oversharing. And finance leaders can help bridge the gap and make a strategic impact by helping executive and department leaders discover their common language around the numbers and people that make the company’s growth narrative come...2022-09-1236 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastEarly-Stage SaaS Financial Modeling: Taylor Davidson, ForesightStarting a company requires an idea and people to help bring it to reality. But a company requires more than a vision, even though it’s fundamental to its success — its needs a well-thought-out business model. For early-stage SaaS startups, creating and implementing a financial model is challenging for a variety of reasons. Which is why Taylor Davidson founded Foresight, a company that offers an extensive library of financial model templates for entrepreneurs.In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski chats with Taylor about the core building blocks of an early-stage SaaS...2022-08-2350 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastTurning Finance into a True Strategic Business Partner: Russ Jones, Former CFO, ShopifyBuilding a finance team means investing in processes, tools, and people. But, making all three segments successful can be time-consuming and requires having a CFO ready to look outside the box and build partnerships with every department within an organization. That's easier said than done, but fortunately, there are success stories that prove it is possible.In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Russ Jones, the former CFO of Shopify. The two discuss what it was like growing a finance team in a company such as Shopify, the challenges and...2022-08-0842 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastScaling from Startup to Wall Street: ZipRecruiter Chief Accounting Officer, Amy GarefisIt is common for accounting and finance teams to work together. However, for a business to grow, it is important for executives to create a culture encouraging partnership between all the departments. Although accountants are not perceived as the most creative people in an organization, their expertise and unique perspective can help other teams, including marketing, to build sustainable business models. In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski chats with Amy Garefis, the Chief Accounting Officer at ZipRecruiter. The two discuss the role of an accountant in a startup, how Amy ha...2022-07-2636 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastThe ERP Gap: Nixsheets CEO, Sal AbdullaIn this era where there’s a better SaaS tool for every workflow, ERP solutions are ripe for innovation.Many finance and accounting teams leverage a distributed EPR model that they’ve cobbled together using various point solutions coupled with spreadsheets to fill additional gaps between the systems. What they’re often lacking is a solution that ties all of these accounting workflows together. One solution for this is Nixsheets, a workflow and automation platform for accounting teams that have outgrown ERPs like QuickBooks but don’t want the headache that comes with a more enterprise-focuse...2022-07-0135 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastCRM Hygiene: Galley Chief Business Officer, Jason PeretzCRM software is one of the most vital business tools today, and most companies nowadays use it to conduct sales, track finances, and manage customer relationships. However, CRMs can be complicated and difficult to set up and use. But your CRM should work for you instead of the other way around.In this episode of The Role Forward podcast, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Jason Peretz, the Chief Business Officer (CBO) of Galley. They talk about the importance of getting your CRM in shape, how to build your CRM effectively from the beginning, and why R...2022-06-1539 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastCAC Masterclass: The SaaS CFO, Ben MurraySaaS companies have a lot of different efficiency metrics. And customer acquisition cost — the amount of money a company spends to get a new customer — is a ubiquitous SaaS metric.How can SaaS companies achieve financial stability and transparency and calculate CAC correctly? What if we have basic calculations and our company matures? How are other metrics involved in the company's performance?In this episode of The Role Forward, Joe Michalowski welcomes Ben Murray, the founder of The SaaS CFO. Joe and Ben get into SaaS, CAC calculations, and CAC profiles. They discuss the importance of h...2022-05-2932 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastCrypto on the Balance Sheet: Ramp Head of Finance, Alex SongCryptocurrency is a hot topic not just in the finance or business world but also in our everyday interactions. But, with all the information available today, it's still challenging for most of us to understand what it is and how it has and will change the global monetary system.Luckily, the number of subject matter experts is growing daily, and one of them is our guest, Alex Song, the Head of Finance and Capital Markets at Ramp.At the beginning of the episode, Alex emphasized that he is not a cryptocurrency expert but is deeply...2022-05-1941 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow to Think About Customer Cohort Analysis with Steve Groccia, Head of Customer Success Operations at MosaicThe contemporary business world depends on in-depth and high-quality data analysis. But it seems like many departments don't have adequate time or tools to focus on data.In a study conducted by Mosaic, only 14% of surveyed finance leaders said they used cohort analysis. Therefore, it is critical to determine the reasons behind this small percentage and offer solutions.In this episode of The Role Forward, host Joe Michalowski welcomes Steve Groccia, the Head of Customer Operation at Mosaic. Steve and Joe discuss the reasons finance leaders don’t use cohort analysis. Steve also explains the di...2022-04-2131 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastKeys to SaaS Pitch Decks and Fundraising with John Luttig, Principal at Founders FundA successful pitch deck is an informative presentation that includes all relevant details and critical metrics that SaaS investors want to see. And you should use that space wisely to get your message across.But there's no one-size-fits-all pitch deck template. You need to tell your company's unique story.In this episode of The Role Forward podcast, our host Joe Michalowski is joined by John Luttig, a Principal at Founders Fund and Mosaic Co-Founder and COO, Joe Garafalo. They chat about the building blocks of a SaaS pitch deck, the CAC Payback Period metric, and...2022-04-0527 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow to Optimize Cash Flow in all Market Conditions with Brad Silicani of AnrokIn every business, the goal is to protect cash and to build a product to get to market. And big companies, which earn tons of revenue, are successful at cash optimization.But there is so much pressure in the economy — interest rate movement, inflation, rising prices — that needs to be overcome. And that could be difficult for companies that do not make a profit and do not have the money to invest.In this episode of The Role Forward, our host Joe Michalowski welcomes Brad Silicani, the Head of Finance and Operations at Anrok. They get...2022-03-2436 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastHow to Make Accounting More Strategic with Howard Katzenberg, Founder & CEO of GleanThere are lots of stereotypes around accounting teams, and one of them is that they're controlling and "no" people. Their stereotypical reputation arises from the fact that they live and die by their routine, spreadsheets, and statements, and they seem to like it that way.But one of the goals of CFOs is to align finance and accounting with other teams within the company, including sales and marketing. By aligning teams and including accounting in other important matters inside the company, this department can become more strategic and forward-thinking.In the new episode of The...2022-02-1637 minRecorded Content - Helping B2B marketers use a podcast for content marketingThe journey to becoming a co-host for your company's showSuccessful leaders know that the key to long-term business growth lies in delegating tasks. But, many owners think they need to be involved in every segment of their business. This is particularly true when a company launches a podcast.Having a CEO and/or founder involved in this process makes a significant difference from the start. Guests will come to your show because they know they will talk with another subject matter expert, and the audience will listen to it because they will have access to two valuable sources of information. Still, executives have a l...2022-02-1529 min
The Role Forward: A Strategic Finance PodcastFinance Automation in the Month-End Close with Temi Vasco, Controller at GemFinance and accounting teams play a significant role in every organization. Their job is to provide relevant and dependable information that helps department heads make the best decisions. But, being an accountant or finance expert is more than a technical role; it is also a strategic role.The success of these two teams depends on the quality of the workforce and the technology in use. In addition, having the right tools in your tech stack ensures efficiency, prevents repetitiveness, and mitigates mistakes.In this episode of The Role Forward, Temi Vasco of Gem joins our...2022-01-1846 min
Wicked WednesdaysEpisode 4 - Horror Makeup, Shocktoberfest, and Zombies (Featuring Briel Michalowski, Chris Dorschutz, and Joe Scrizzi)On this episode of the Wicked Wednesdays podcast Tesia talks with Briel Michalowski, Chris Dorschutz, and Joe Scrizzi. They discuss horror makeup, Shocktoberfest, and Zombies.www.dewbackdiscussion.netwww.horrormerchstore.com2019-07-1700 min