Shows
ThrivecastFreemium in the Age of AI: Myth, Model, or Growth Engine?In this week’s ThriveStack webinar, we sat down with Dave Boyce—author, product-led growth (PLG) advocate, and seasoned operator—to unpack the realities of freemium in SaaS. With AI transforming business models and unit economics, the debate around whether freemium accelerates growth or drains resources has never been more relevant. Dave shared lessons from his own journey from sales-led to PLG, and the hard truths behind monetization, activation, and product-market fit in today’s SaaS landscape.Key Insights* Freemium is just one monetization model. It’s not a silver bullet but part of a broader PL...
2025-09-2056 min
ThrivecastFuture of SaaS, Investments and Innovations: A Fireside Chat with Dave HershThriveStack and Dave HershAug 20, 2025In this fireside chat, Gururaj Pandurangi sits down with Dave Hersh, founding CEO of Jive Software and now a coach to startup founders and leaders. From scaling Jive from bootstrapped beginnings to IPO, to guiding today’s SaaS teams through turbulent markets, Dave shares a candid look at what’s broken in venture-backed growth, what founders should focus on instead, and how to align both investors and customers without losing sight of purpose.We explore his founder journey, the tension between investor pressure and customer needs, the waste of premature scaling, and...
2025-09-0650 min
Delivering Value: helping you lead like the top 1% in growth, marketing, and product.Why Imposter Syndrome Hits Startup Leaders Every 18 Months (Ex-CPO of Amplitude Explains) (Justin Bauer)In this episode, Justin Bauer, former Chief Product Officer at Amplitude and now one of the most sought-after product advisors in AI, talks about the pivotal career moments that shaped his leadership style. From betting everything on a tiny startup with 13 people to navigating layoffs and leveling conversations, Justin shares how he learned to lead with clarity, humility, and courage.He also reflects on what it takes to thrive in a high-growth environment — and how to reinvent yourself every 18 months to stay relevant. This is a conversation about ambition, emotional resilience, and how to earn trust when th...
2025-08-261h 00
Delivering Value: helping you lead like the top 1% in growth, marketing, and product.The Silent Secret to Becoming a Better Product Leader (from a Head of Product Growth) (Rana Mumtaz)In this episode, Rana Mumtaz, Product Growth Leader, reflects on the defining moments that shaped her personal and professional identity—from quietly adapting to American culture as a soft-spoken engineering student to building products at the New York Stock Exchange and navigating executive rooms as a banking outsider.She opens up about career pivots that required unshakable self-belief, including her leap from civil engineering to software, and the moment she realized her leadership potential didn’t need to follow anyone else’s blueprint. Rana shares how difficult conversations, strategic missteps, and cultural friction all played a role in hel...
2025-08-1954 min
ThrivecastProduct Activation: Key Drivers and Growth LeaksIn SaaS, getting sign-ups is only half the battle. The real challenge lies in ensuring those users activate — reaching the moment when they first experience real value from your product. This milestone, often called the “aha moment”, is a key predictor of whether users will stay, convert to paid, and grow with your product.In this conversation, growth advisor Andrew Capland shares his perspective on what activation really means, why so many companies get it wrong, and how to identify and fix the leaks that silently drain your growth.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google...
2025-08-1654 min
Delivering Value: helping you lead like the top 1% in growth, marketing, and product.This Founder Had Weeks of Runway Left—Then Took a Risk That Saved the Company (Gururaj Pandurangi)In this episode, Gururaj Pandurangi, three-time founder and CEO of ThriveStack, opens up about the near-death moments, pivots, and internal reckonings that shaped his entrepreneurial journey. From growing up in Mumbai with dreams of becoming a scientist to leading multi-million dollar product bets at startups backed by Microsoft and Deloitte, Guru shares what it really takes to build when the vision keeps shifting and the runway keeps shrinking.He walks us through two moments when his companies nearly ran out of money and the uncomfortable decisions that pulled them back from the edge. From flipping into consulting...
2025-07-2357 min
Delivering Value: helping you lead like the top 1% in growth, marketing, and product.They Said, “You’re Too Nice to Lead This Team” — Now He’s Head of Growth at Adobe (Michael Leibovich)Can you be too nice to lead?In this episode, Michael Leibovich, GM and Head of Growth at Adobe, shares the career pivots, personal awakenings, and leadership lessons that shaped his unconventional journey from touring musician to executive. Michael opens up about getting fired, receiving feedback that questioned his approach to leadership, and learning how to balance empathy with outcomes. From scaling growth teams at Vimeo, Mindbody, AppFolio, and Abstract to navigating the emotional weight of letting someone go, Michael brings clarity to the messy, human side of leadership.We explore how feedback becomes identity-shaping...
2025-07-1551 min
ThrivecastFrom BigQuery to MotherDuck: Reinventing the Data Warehouse with Jordan TiganiIn this episode, we chat with Jordan Tigani, co-creator of BigQuery and now CEO of MotherDuck, a next-gen, serverless analytics platform built on top of DuckDB. Jordan walks us through his journey from leading engineering and product at Google to building a lean, developer-first company that’s challenging the assumptions of modern data infrastructure. We explore his pivot from enterprise-heavy go-to-market models to a bold product-led growth (PLG) approach, his views on usage-based pricing, open-source collaboration, and what AI hasn't done for the data world—yet.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.
2025-07-1247 min
Delivering Value: helping you lead like the top 1% in growth, marketing, and product.This Product Leader Walked Out of the Office at 9AM — And Didn’t Go Back (Else van der Berg)What makes someone walk away from a PhD, a career in law, and the startup that made them?In this episode, I sit down with Else van der Berg—a former head of product turned solopreneur—to unpack the hard-earned lessons from the burnout that nearly broke her. Else shares how working 80-hour weeks and tying her identity to performance pushed her to the brink—and what changed afterward.We talk about how startup culture, pressure to “always be on,” and even toxic leadership can distort your sense of success. Else doesn’t just reflect on the crash...
2025-06-1758 min
Delivering Value: helping you lead like the top 1% in growth, marketing, and product.She Tried to Be the “Nice” CEO—Here’s What Went Wrong (Devin Bramhall)Devin Bramhall has been a VP of marketing, a CEO, a fractional CMO, and now an author, but none of that came without falling on her face multiple times.In this episode, Devin opens up about the mistakes that got her fired (twice), the time she unknowingly helped commit financial fraud, and the zero-tolerance plagiarism incident that backfired in the worst way. Through all of it, she’s held onto her belief that everything from leadership to content strategy is made up, and that’s exactly why you can rewrite the rules.Devin shares what it m...
2025-06-101h 00
Thrivecast#50 — From Baremetrics to Changebot: Brian Sierakowski on SaaS Growth, AI Innovation, and Founder GritIn this ThriveCast episode, Gururaj P sits down with Brian Sierakowski, a seasoned SaaS leader known for steering Baremetrics through a major transformation and now founding Changebot AI — a platform revolutionizing how product teams manage and communicate change.Brian shares candid insights from his journey, including the challenges of taking over an established SaaS business, leading product and communication improvements, and building new tools that align with modern AI-driven workflows. He highlights key lessons in entrepreneurship, product management, and the realities of SaaS growth.This conversation is packed with hard-earned advice for founders navigating scaling, ma...
2025-05-0359 min
Thrivecast#49 — Scaling Smart: Lessons from Christian Nielsen on Bootstrapping a PLG SaaSIn this Thrivecast episode, Gururaj P hosts Christian Nielsen, the Chief Product Officer and co-founder of uQualio, a Copenhagen-based SaaS company revolutionizing video learning. Christian shares actionable strategies and lessons from uQualio's journey as a bootstrapped, product-led growth (PLG) business.From pricing and onboarding to abuse prevention, Christian explains how uQualio tackled challenges that SaaS founders often face. This episode is packed with insights for startups looking to scale effectively, keep operations lean, and prioritize customer experience.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key Insights and Actionable Takeaways:...
2025-02-0556 min
Thrivecast#48 — Ignite Startups: Gururaj Pandurangi on Product-Led Growth and Startup StrategiesOriginally posted on the Ignite Podcast, this episode features Gururaj Pandurangi, a 3x founder, as he unpacks the gritty realities and golden lessons of building and scaling startups. You can tune into the full conversation on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.In a recent episode of the Ignite Podcast, serial entrepreneur and cloud security veteran Gururaj Pandurangi shared invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities of scaling SaaS businesses. As the founder of ThriveStack, Guru brings over two decades of experience in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and B2B SaaS, making his advice a goldmine for founders navigating the...
2025-01-1948 min
Ignite: Conversations on Startups, Venture Capital, Tech, Future, and SocietyIgnite Startups: Gururaj Pandurangi on Product-Led Growth and Startup Strategies | #124In this episode of the Ignite Podcast, host Brian Bell welcomes Gururaj Pandurangi, a seasoned entrepreneur and expert in cloud security and SaaS innovation, to share his journey and insights. With over 20 years of experience spanning Microsoft, Oracle, and his own successful startups, Gururaj has a unique perspective on building and scaling technology companies. He is currently leading ThriveStack, a platform revolutionizing product-led growth (PLG) for SaaS businesses.
Gururaj recounts his early career developing foundational products like Bing and Azure at Microsoft and the pivotal decision to transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship. His ventures have included disaster recovery...
2025-01-1348 min
Thrivecast#47 — Bootstrapping to Scaling Revenue to Exit: GTM Conversation with Gururaj Pandurangi, 3x FounderOriginally posted on the Stratyve podcast, this episode features Gururaj Pandurangi, a 3x founder, as he unpacks the gritty realities and golden lessons of building and scaling startups. You can tune into the full conversation on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.For founders navigating the complex maze from an idea to a thriving company, this episode is a treasure trove of practical insights. Gururaj shares his candid experiences—from bootstrapping in the early days, finding innovative ways to scale revenue, and ultimately guiding his ventures to successful exits.The conversation explores a wide range of topics: th...
2025-01-1100 min
Thrivecast#46 — Stop being lazy, Innovate with AI, ft. Sam MallikarjunanArtificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming sales and marketing, equipping businesses with tools to innovate, uncover insights, and connect with customers like never before. It’s no longer about just saving time; it’s about creating new possibilities. In this context, we draw insights from Sam Mallikarjunan, an experienced marketer, entrepreneur, and AI advocate whose career spans impactful roles at HubSpot and as the co-founder of agent.ai. His perspectives offer a roadmap for leveraging AI to unlock new opportunities and overcome challenges in a rapidly evolving landscape.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouT...
2024-12-2143 min
Thrivecast#45 — PR does not mean just Press Release, ft. Doyle AlbeeIn this episode, Doyle Albee, CEO of Comprise, shares how startups can leverage PR strategies to establish brand authority and credibility. Doyle explains why PR is no longer just about press releases and highlights the importance of tailored messaging to stand out in today’s crowded media landscape.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.PR Today- What It Is and What It Isn’tPR has moved far beyond the era of simply drafting press releases and distributing them widely. Doyle explains that modern PR is about creating a cohesive narr...
2024-12-1436 min
ThrivecastRevOps: Trends and PracticesRevOps (Revenue Operations) is more than just a buzzword—it's a critical function for companies looking to streamline their revenue-generating processes. In a recent ThriveStack webinar, Peter Wheeler hosted an insightful discussion with James McKay (Founder, Venn), Matt Rocha (Director of RevOps, B2B Catalyst), and Gururaj Pandurangi (Founder, ThriveStack). Together, they explored the evolving landscape of RevOps, its role in go-to-market (GTM) strategies, and how businesses are sailing over the shift from sales-led to product-led growth.What is RevOps?At its core, RevOps (Revenue Operations) unifies sales, marketing, and customer su...
2024-10-1900 min
Thrivecast#44 — Product-Led Playbook, ft. Wes BushIn a lively discussion, three voices in the SaaS world came together to talk about the future of product-led growth (PLG): Wes Bush, the bestselling author of Product-Led Growth and the creator of the PLG system; Vincent Young, VP at Dealfront and author of Product-Led Sales; and Peter Wheeler, a product growth expert. With Wes Bush preparing to release his new book- The Product-Led Playbook, the session explored the complexities and challenges that come with adopting a PLG approach. The conversation was a reality check for many—a closer look into why PLG isn't just a buzzword, bu...
2024-10-1238 min
ThrivecastPLG + Sales are better togetherBalancing Product-Led Growth (PLG) with traditional sales efforts can be challenging but rewarding. With insights from Amplitude’s Franciska Dethlefsen, the session explored how self-serve and sales motions can work together without compromise. Hosted by Gururaj Pandurangi and Peter Wheeler, the discussion highlighted Amplitude’s journey to integrate PLG and sales seamlessly, with collaboration and timing as key themes.Understanding Product-Led Sales (PLS) Without the JargonFranciska Dethlefsen broke down Product-Led Sales (PLS) as the practice of driving sales through the product itself. She explained that it’s not just about getting users to sign up for...
2024-10-0553 min
ThrivecastThe Role of a Startup Community for Early-Stage StartupsToday, we’re exploring what makes startup communities powerful engines for early-stage founders. In our recent webinar, Aviel Ginzburg—an experienced founder and investor—shared his thoughts on building strong, supportive ecosystems. Aviel has journeyed from software engineer to VC, offering insights on what makes a startup community thrive: connections, mentorship, and the spark of serendipity that can change everything.Setting the Scene: Startup Communities and SerendipityStartup journeys are rarely linear. And, as Aviel Ginzburg pointed out, it’s often serendipity—those unplanned encounters and unexpected opportunities—that shapes an entrepreneur's path. However, not...
2024-09-2859 min
Thrivecast1/3 To PLG or Not To PLGChoosing the right go-to-market (GTM) strategy can make or break a company. One of the most debated strategies is Product-Led Growth (PLG), which emphasizes the product as the primary vehicle for customer acquisition, retention, and expansion. But is PLG the right fit for every company? How do you know when to embrace it or avoid it?In the first part of a three-part expert conversation series, Vincent Jong, VP Product at Dealfront, Peter Wheeler, PLG GTM Advisor, and Gururaj Pandurangi, Founder of ThriveStack, dove into this exact topic. What is PLG?
2024-09-2158 min
ThrivecastSell Big (ABM) and Sell Small (PLG) are in your controltl;dr:* Product-Led Growth (PLG) allows users to discover, engage, and convert independently, making it ideal for scalable, low-touch products.* Account-Based Marketing (ABM) focuses on personalized, relationship-driven campaigns targeting high-value accounts with longer sales cycles.* Combining PLG and ABM enables companies to scale quickly while nurturing key accounts for larger, more complex deals.* AI-driven ABM helps by automating account identification, personalized outreach, and real-time adjustments, ensuring efficiency without losing personalization.* PLG is best for user-driven, self-service models, while ABM works for complex, high-ticket sales involving multiple decision-makers....
2024-09-141h 02
ThrivecastHow is Marketing Evolving in the Era of Product-Led Growth and Self-Serve Models?tl;dr:* B2B buyers are increasingly self-directed, with 77% completing their journey before contacting a vendor.* The role of marketing has expanded to include product education and close collaboration with product development and customer success teams.* Product-Led Growth (PLG) shifts focus to the product as the main driver of customer acquisition and revenue generation.* Product Qualified Leads (PQLs) are now more valuable than traditional Marketing Qualified Leads (MQLs).* The marketing tech stack now includes tools like product usage analytics and AI-powered personalization.* Customer success teams play a...
2024-09-071h 01
Thrivecast#43 — Automating Customer Journeys with Email automation, ft. Jane Portman, Co-Founder UserlistToday, we're exploring email automation's role in customer journeys with Jane Portman, co-founder of Userlist. Jane, also the host of UI Breakfast and Better Done Than Perfect, shared her expertise on using email automation to boost onboarding, engagement, and nurturing. Whether you're a startup or an established business, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Jane's Journey and Userlist's Evolution* Early Ventures: Jane’s past startup experiences laid the foundation for Userlist, which she co-founded in 2017.* Product Evolution: Userlist was la...
2024-08-1740 min
Thrivecast#42 — 2024 B2B SaaS Growth - Marketing ideas to help startups THRIVE, ft. Neil PatelIn today's episode, we're exploring the world of B2B SaaS growth for 2024. Our guest is none other than Neil Patel, the co-founder of NP Digital and a legend in the digital marketing space. Neil brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights that will be invaluable for early-stage startups looking to navigate the competitive landscape. Get ready for some actionable advice and strategies to help your startup thrive in the coming year. Let's jump right in!Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Current Trends in B2B...
2024-08-0326 min
Thrivecast#41 —Building Community and Product: Advise to early-stage startups, ft Ben LangIn this episode, we explore the intricate relationship between building a community and developing a product, focusing on advice tailored for early-stage startups. We are thrilled to have Ben Lang, a renowned figure in community leadership and a seasoned entrepreneur, as our guest today.Ben brings a wealth of experience from his time at Notion, where he played a pivotal role in community building. Beyond his work at Notion, Ben has ventured into angel investing and continues to foster communities in various capacities. His journey offers invaluable insights for startups aiming to balance product development with community...
2024-07-2726 min
Thrivecast#40 — The ongoing PLG journey of Superhuman, ft Gaurav Vohra, Head of GrowthIn this episode, we explore the ongoing Product-Led Growth (PLG) journey of Superhuman. Gaurav Vohra, who has held multiple leadership roles at Superhuman, shares insights on their strategies, challenges, and successes in building one of the fastest email experiences on the market. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Phase One: Getting to Product-Market Fit* Focus: Achieving product-market fit.* Strategy: Founder-led approach leveraging personal networks to reach ideal customer profiles.* Challenges:* Maintaining high product standards for high-expectation customers like VCs and tech founders....
2024-07-2031 min
Thrivecast#39 — Has SaaS Lost Go-To-Market Fit? ft. Dave BoyceIn this episode, our guest, Dave Boyce, Chairman at Winning by Design and Board Member at Forrester, shares his insights on the rising Customer Acquisition Costs (CAC) and the decline in Net Revenue Retention (NRR). Dave discusses why traditional GTM strategies are faltering and how Product-Led Growth (PLG) might offer a solution.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.ContextGrowth rates are dropping, yet Sales & Marketing (S&M) budgets are increasing rapidly.According to Dave Boyce's recent article, over the past two years, the Customer Acquisition...
2024-07-1322 min
Thrivecast#38 — Inside story of Engineering the Amplitude Plus Plan, Ft Kelson Warner, Head of Growth EngineeringIn this episode, we explore the intricacies of Amplitude's growth engineering journey with Kelson, the Head of Growth Engineering. We examine the evolution of the growth engineering team, the challenges they faced, and the key strategies they implemented to drive Amplitude's success. Kelson also shares insights into the Amplitude Plus plan and offers valuable advice for aspiring growth engineers and product managers.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Early Days at AmplitudeKelson's Initial Role and Responsibilities: When Kelson first joined Amplitude, he took on the role of building and...
2024-07-0636 min
Thrivecast#37 — The Inevitable Convergence of PLG & UX ft. Kate SyumaIn this episode, we feature Kate Syuma, a renowned growth advisor and ex-Head of Growth Design at Miro. Kate is a Founder at Growthmates — a platform for learning from industry leaders and an advising practice that guides companies in growing meaningful products by leveraging PLG and enhancing UX quality, together.Join us as we explore the convergence of these key areas with insights from her extensive experience.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Connecting PLG Business Thinking with User-Experience (UX) CentricityIntegrating user-centricity into Product-Led Growth (PLG) strategies is...
2024-06-2945 min
Thrivecast#36 — The ongoing PLG journey of Zuora, ft. Dana Yobst, Ex-Head of GrowthToday, we're excited to have Dana Yobst, the former Head of Growth at Zuora, join us to discuss Zuora's ongoing Product-Led Growth (PLG) journey. Dana has been instrumental in driving growth strategies at Zuora and brings a wealth of experience in go-to-market leadershipListen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.PLG at Zuora circa 2021* State of Affairs in 2021:* Market conditions had changed significantly.* Competitors were offering trials.* Buyers, especially developers, demanded hands-on experience over analyst reports and customer references.* Importance of PLG:
2024-06-2240 min
Thrivecast#35 — How are Startups reacting to the increased time between venture rounds? Ft. Peter Walker, CartaWelcome, SaaS Thrivers! Today, we explore how startups cope with longer gaps between venture rounds. Joining us is Peter Walker from Carta, a leading voice in startup equity and data storytelling.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key takeaways:How Startups are Reacting to the Increased Time Between Venture Rounds* Surge in VC Subscriptions: Following our blog post on "Are VCs incentivizing Startups to Grow-At-All-Costs?", there was a significant increase in VC subscriptions to ThriveStack’s substack. This interest underscores the relevance of the topic in th...
2024-06-0827 min
The Founder-Led Marketing ShowSold His Last SaaS for $10-140M, Now Launching His Next SaaS Helping Enterprise Go PLGGururaj Pandurangi is the CEO and Founder of ThriveStack.
ThriveStack equips SaaS builders with tools that facilitate user signup, product trial, purchase, and operating Self-Serve on a large scale.
In this episode we talk about:
- Sales-Led vs. Product-Led Growth
- How to Add a PLG to a Sales-Led Motion
- Gururaj's learnings of founding his 3rd SaaS Business
Gururaj's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gururajp/
ThriveStack: https://www.thrivestack.ai/
2024-05-1531 min
Thrivecast#34 - 2/2 Amplitude Plus Plan - Word of Advice ft. Katya FeuntesIn this episode, we resume our insightful discussion with Katya Fuentes from Amplitude, focusing on how to implement Product-Led Growth (PLG) strategies effectively. Katya shares the transformative challenges and strategies Amplitude faced while integrating PLG and sales-led growth. Learn about the critical role of patient leadership, the strategic importance of pricing and value metrics, and how aligning sales with self-service can propel business growth. This episode is packed with actionable advice, whether you're refining an existing PLG approach or starting fresh.Key Insights:* Embracing Hybrid Models: For companies looking to integrate...
2024-05-0411 min
Thrivecast#33 — The awesome tale of Userflow, a PLG enabler - from Zero to Acquisition ft. Esben Friis-JensenEmbark with Esben Friis-Jensen on a journey through innovation and strategic thinking that took Userflow from a nascent idea to a success story worth $4.6M revenue with a 3 member team.In this episode of Thrivecast, Esben shares the milestones and tactics behind their product-led growth, offering insights into the world of SaaS user onboarding. Weekly episodes promise to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit with stories and strategies that shaped their path to acquisition.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key takeaways:Choosing Product-Led GrowthUserflow team made...
2024-04-2728 min
Thrivecast#32 — SaaS Metrics and Tactics to drive Customer Acquisition and Activation ft. Mariano MarteneStep into the world of SaaS growth with Mariano, a seasoned strategist from Lisbon, Co-founder of SaaS-HQ and the force behind SaaStock, as he breaks down the metrics that shape successful go-to-market strategies. In this episode, we focus on the pivotal roles of awareness, acquisition, and activation, dissecting how they contribute to scaling SaaS businesses within PLG and SLG frameworks.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key takeaways:AwarenessDeveloping customer awareness sets the foundation for any successful SaaS venture. It's a multi-faceted domain where metrics like website...
2024-04-2030 min
Thrivecast#31 — PLG and Importance of Lead Enrichment ft. Jason SaltzmanStep into the world of strategic growth with Jason, a leading voice from Live Data Technologies, who brings his deep understanding of human capital to the forefront of product-led growth strategies. In this episode, we explore how live data transforms the landscape of SaaS marketing and sales, paving the way for smarter, more effective user acquisition and retention.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key takeaways:The Role of Lead Enrichment in PLG* Enriched data tailors the user experience, allowing for interactions that meet specific customer...
2024-04-1323 min
Thrivecast#30 — GTM Journey from Seed to Scale ft. Kevin White, Common RoomIn this insightful episode, we welcome Kevin White the marketing maestro at Common Room, as he explores the strategic choices that propel a SaaS company's journey from a nascent stage to a robust scale-up. Armed with years of expertise in fueling product-led growth, Kevin shares the critical decisions and pivotal shifts necessary to scale effectively in today's vibrant market. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key takeaways:From Seed to Scale* Initial GTM strategies focus on product and market validation, emphasizing speed and learning....
2024-04-0625 min
Thrivecast#29 - 1/2 Amplitude Plus Plan - A leap into Self-Service and transparent pricing ft. Katya FuentesWelcome to our latest episode, where we spotlight Katya Fuentes from Amplitude and the strategic shift that's reshaping the SaaS world. With roots in Ukraine and now innovating in the Bay Area, Katya has been instrumental in advancing product-led growth at Amplitude. In this episode, she shares insights on the Plus plan's launch, a key initiative under her stewardship, which marks a new chapter for Amplitude in enhancing user experience and driving growth.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.The Evolution of AmplitudeLaunching the Plus PlanThe...
2024-03-3041 min
Thrivecast#28 — Revenue Intelligence for Startups, ft. Francis Brero, CPO MadKuduWelcome to our latest episode where we're thrilled to have Francis Brero, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer of MadKudu, share his insights on Revenue Intelligence for PLG-first SaaS companies. Francis started in engineering and later moved into data science. He co-founded MadKudu with Sam Levan. Their vision was clear: leveraging data science to enhance go-to-market strategies for SaaS businesses. Join us as Francis shares his experiences from the early days at TechStars to becoming a leading figure in revenue intelligence, offering a fresh perspective on the growth strategies reshaping the SaaS industry.Listen now on...
2024-03-2332 min
Thrivecast#27 — Trends and Insights into Product-Led Growth ft. David Yockelson, GartnerWelcome to an exploration of innovation with our esteemed guest, David Yockelson from Gartner, a beacon in the tech community for his insightful analysis and foresight. In this episode, we're investigating the essence of Product-Led Growth (PLG), a strategy that's revolutionizing the SaaS industry. With David's extensive expertise, we'll shed light on the reasons SaaS companies are increasingly adopting PLG, its relationship with traditional sales-led approaches, and its significant influence on the growth paths of tech businesses today.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Why PLG?PLG is...
2024-03-1631 min
Thrivecast#26 — Product Evolution - Exploring Strategies, Organizational Structure, and Roles ft. Elena AvramenkoEver wondered how startups transform their product strategies and organizational structures as they grow? In this insightful episode, we sit down with Elena Avramenko to decode the complexities and dynamism of scaling startups. Elena brings her extensive experience in nurturing innovation to shed light on the evolving roles, challenges, and strategies that define the startup journey. Immerse yourself in a conversation that bridges theory and practice, offering a beacon for businesses navigating their path to success.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key takeaways:Evolution of Startup Product...
2024-03-0936 min
Thrivecast#25 — Exploring Storylane’s PLG Journey: Innovating Interactive Demos with PLG Distribution ft. Nalin SenthamilIn this enlightening session, Nalin Senthamil, co-founder of Storylane, shares the narrative of pioneering interactive demos in the B2B sector. With a decade's journey through the startup ecosystem, Nalin takes us through the inception of Storylane, emphasizing the strategic embrace of a product-led growth model. This episode offers a glimpse into the challenges and victories encountered while championing a bottom-up motion in the PLG landscape.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key Timestamps* (0:00) Introduction highlighting PLG success with enterprise adoption.* (1:58) Background on Nalin's journey and the inspiration...
2024-03-0231 min
Thrivecast#24 — Common Paper's Onward Journey to Growth ft. Jake Stein | CEOIn our latest episode, we sit down with Jake Stein, the CEO of Common Paper. He sheds light on their journey of adopting a product-led growth approach within the SaaS landscape. From the initial stages of customer engagement to developing a robust, self-serve platform, Jake shares the strategic pivots that helped scale their customer base. Hear firsthand how Common Paper's innovative take on contract standardization is carving a new path in the industry.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key Timestamps* (0:00) Introduction: Discussing the importance of customer interactions in PLG.
2024-02-2429 min
Thrivecast#23 — Building Bridges: The Quest for a Unified Playbook in SaaS Growth ft. Arjun SaksenaWelcome to the latest episode of our podcast featuring Arjun Saksena, CEO of Humanic, who brings his extensive experience from leading tech giants like Adobe and Yahoo. Arjun delves into how PLG is reshaping sales and marketing strategies, emphasizing the power of data and collaboration across organizational silos to drive growth. Whether you're deeply embedded in the tech world or just keen on the latest in SaaS innovation, this discussion offers critical insights into the evolving landscape of tech marketing.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key Timestamps* (0:00...
2024-02-1732 min
Thrivecast#22 — Building & Nurturing a Growth Team ft. Pierre-Jean Hillion (Growth @BlaBlaCar)In this episode, we explore Pierre-Jean's evolution from a technology aficionado to a leading growth strategist at BlaBlaCar. His story is one of passion for technology, keen insights into SaaS growth, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. Pierre-Jean's approach combines a deep understanding of technology with a visionary outlook on how to scale SaaS platforms effectively, making his journey a beacon for anyone looking to drive growth in the tech sector.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key Timestamps* (00:00) Introduction of Pierre-Jean Hillion; his background, role at BlaBlaCar, and his...
2024-02-1027 min
Thrivecast#21 — Narrato.io's PLG Journey Building an AI Content Workspace for Marketers & Creators ft. Sophia SolankiIn this episode, we explore Sophia Solanki's journey from her engineering roots at IIT Delhi to becoming a leader in the SaaS industry. With a background in business consulting and content marketing, Sophia brings a wealth of experience to her latest venture, Narrato, an AI-driven platform designed to revolutionize content creation for SaaS companies. Her story reflects a blend of technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, setting the stage for an analysis of the world of AI-enhanced content strategies in the B2B SaaS sector.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.Key Timestamps
2024-02-0332 min
Thrivecast#20 — Activate Your Customers with PLG Simple Onboarding Techniques ft. Yaakov CarnoYaakov Carno, a strategist in PLG and user onboarding, clarifies the intricacies of Product-Led Growth in this insightful podcast. He addresses the pivotal role of user activation in SaaS success, combining theoretical insights with practical strategies. His expertise offers valuable takeaways for SaaS companies seeking to optimize their PLG approach.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, Google and YouTube.Key Timestamps* (00:00) Introduction to the podcast; focus on PLG activation and customer retention.* (00:37) Introduction of Yaakov Caro, his background in PLG, SaaS startups, and his journey in PLG.* (02:12) Yaakov's transition...
2024-01-2734 min
Thrivecast#19 — Evolution of SDR role in a Product-Led Era ft. David ZeffIn this Thrivecast episode, David Zeff, CEO of Whistle, joins host Gururaj Pandurangi to explore the evolving role of Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) in the SaaS industry. David brings a rich background in tech startups to discuss how sales strategies are adapting in a product-led business landscape.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.Key Timestamps* (00:00) Introduction to David Jeff and Whistle's role in tech startups.* (02:05) Inspiration behind Whistle's inception.* (03:25) Evolution and significance of SDR role in product-led growth.* (05:08) Strategic importance of SDRs in SAS...
2024-01-2032 min
Thrivecast#18 — PLG Infrastructure: Building the Foundation for PLG Success from Startups to Scaleups ft. Hila QuListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.In this insightful episode, we explore the world of Product-Led Growth (PLG) Infrastructure, a key element for SaaS companies at various stages of their journey. Featuring the seasoned expertise of Hila Qu, this podcast provides a comprehensive overview of the intricacies involved in constructing a solid PLG foundation, vital for fostering sustainable growth in the competitive SaaS landscape. This podcast builds upon Lenny's Newsletterblog post fromHila Qu 曲卉 titled - Five steps to starting your product-led growth motion and focuses mostly on the PLG Infrastructure that Startups need...
2024-01-1338 min
Thrivecast#17 — Layering PLG over SLG: Challenges and Mitigations ft. Chetan RawalListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.In this episode, we're joined by Chetan Rawal to dissect the intricate process of integrating Product-Led Growth (PLG) strategies atop existing Sales-Led Growth (SLG) frameworks. Chetan shares his perspective on why and how these two approaches should be managed by distinct teams and leadership within an organization. For further insight, don't miss Chetan's recent post, "Common Myth Amongst Sales-led Orgs: Stagnating Growth?", which explores some of the misconceptions surrounding SLG. He dissects the idea that while PLG and SLG might initially compete, they eventually...
2024-01-0626 min
Thrivecast#16 — Is there a prescriptive guide to implementing PLG? ft. Mario AraujoListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.Summary:Join us for an insightful discussion with Mario Araujo, the Vice President of Growth at Graphext, as we explore the complexities and evolving maturity of Product-Led Growth (PLG). We examine the evolution of PLG, its adoption challenges, and the journey towards achieving high maturity, enriched by insights from Mario's extensive experience in the field.Here's what's in store for you:(00:00) Welcoming Mario Exploring His Journey in Product and Growth Advisory(01:00) Discussing the Evolving Field of PLG and Mario's Role in It
2023-12-1338 min
Thrivecast#15 — Modern GTM for Developer focused companies ft. Achintya GuptaListen now on Spotify, Apple, Overcast, Google and YouTube.Join us in this episode of Thrive Cast as Gururaj Pandurangi sits down with Achintya Gupta, the visionary Co-Founder of Reo.dev. In an industry where understanding the developer's mindset is key, Achintya sheds light on the unique challenges of Developer Go-to-Market strategies. With a wealth of experience in fintech and developer tools, Achintya offers actionable insights into crafting GTM strategies that resonate with both developers and buyers. From discussing the success stories of HashiCorp, Elastic, and Confluent to highlighting the importance of data-driven decision-making and cross-departmental collaboration...
2023-12-0626 min
Thrivecast#14 — Implementing Self-Serve Monetization ft. Robin GauvreauListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.Summary:Explore the innovative e-commerce strategies with Robin Gauvreau, Head of Product at Together.do, in this ThriveCast episode. Host Gururaj Pandurangi uncovers Robin's transition from HR to product management, the growing trend of self-serve signups, and how Together.do leverages Product-Led Growth (PLG). Learn about Robin's unique user engagement tactics and growth tools, including the "reverse trial" method.Here's what's in store for you:(00:00) Introduction and Background of Robin Gauvreau.(00:47) The Inception and Mission of Together.do.(02:07...
2023-11-2929 min
Thrivecast#13 — Trials and tribulations of PLG implementation ft. Aditya & Angad, Sumo LogicListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.Summary:In this episode of Thrivecast, we feature Angad Singh and Aditya Gaur from Sumo Logic, who offer their unique perspectives on adopting Product-Led Growth (PLG) within their organization. We focus on the journey from a traditional sales-led approach to a product-centric strategy, discussing the inherent challenges, effective strategies, and the critical role of elements like self-service and trial plans in shaping go-to-market strategies.Here's What You Can Expect:(00:00) - Introduction and Overview(01:01) - Angad Singh on Sumo Logic's Shift...
2023-11-2239 min
Thrivecast#12 — How should early stage startups think of starting a PLG journey? ft. Maja VojeListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YouTube.Summary:Welcome to another episode of ThriveCast! Gururaj Pandurangi chats with Maja Voje, a renowned growth advisor with a global reputation. From her experiences with big names like Google and Rocket Internet to her much-anticipated upcoming book Go-To-Market Strategist, Maja offers a fresh look at product-led growth. In their chat, they discuss the ins and outs of growing a business, the challenges of pricing, and how to connect with users genuinely.Here's what you can expect:* 00:00 - Introduction to Maja and her...
2023-11-1543 min
Thrivecast#11— How product-led should you be? ft. Yves DelongieListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and Youtube.In this exciting podcast, discover the fascinating world of Product-Led Growth (PLG) with our guest, Yves Delongie, Co-founder/CEO at journy.io, the end-to-end integrated PLG platform. In this episode, Yves Delongie unveils the strategies behind journy.io's groundbreaking approach to PLG and its profound impact on how businesses engage and retain customers. This podcast has been mostly inspired by Journy.io’s blog with the same name - How Product-Led should you be? The engaging conversation explores the future of customer-centric growth strategies and the pi...
2023-11-0831 min
Thrivecast#10 — OpenTHC's Self Service Journey: Innovation Through Open Source ft. David BusbyListen now on Apple, Spotify, Overcast, Google and YoutubeSummary: Join us for an episode of ThriveCast where Gururaj Pandurangi has a candid chat with David Busby, the visionary behind OpenTHC. From the inception of OpenTHC to the intricacies of self-serve signups, David shares his journey, challenges, and experiences in the regulated cannabis space. Here's what's in store for you: * Getting to Know David: David introduces himself, his background, and what led him to create OpenTHC. * The Self-Serve Decision: David sheds light on why OpenTHC chose the self-serve signup rout...
2023-11-0144 min
Thrivecast#9 — Why is PLG Trial Management difficult to implement? ft. Theo OheneListen now on Apple, Overcast, Google and Youtube.Summary:Join us for an enriching episode of ThriveCast where Gururaj Pandurangi meets Theo Ohene, the revered growth advisor from London, UK. Theo is a growth Advisor to many startups around the world and a founder of Growth Roadmaps. Theo's extensive work with startups and deep insights into Product-Led Growth (PLG) trials, conversion, and strategic nuances, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge for its listeners.Here's what's in store for you:* Early-stage founders and PMF: Traverse the startup landscape with Theo and...
2023-10-2538 min
Thrivecast#8 — Building Virality into Products ft. Brian PagetListen now on Apple, Overcast, Google and Youtube.Summary: Welcome to yet another insightful episode of ThriveCast! Join us as we sit down with Brian Paget, Founder of MeetMoji. Brian brings a wealth of experience in Strategy, Technology, and Marketing with big names like Amazon, SAP, Adobe, IBM, and venture-backed startups. In this conversation, we delve into effective strategies for fostering network effects and virality in product adoption. Brian emphasizes the significance of identifying and engaging "nodes," individuals or users who can champion a product and drive its adoption. We discuss the importance of adaptability a...
2023-10-1829 min
Thrivecast#7 — Why is Product Messaging Important For Startups?Listen now on Spotify, Apple, Overcast, Google and Youtube.Summary: Ready for another thrilling episode of ThriveCast? This time, Gururaj Pandurangi is welcoming Robert Kaminski, a seasoned pro in product marketing for early-stage B2B horizontal startups and a key player at Fletch. They'll be diving into the nitty-gritty of product messaging and positioning, exploring their importance, application, and the subtle elements that make all the difference. With Robert's rich experience and unique insights, you're sure to gain a solid understanding of how to shape your product messaging, set up effective positioning, and drive your s...
2023-10-1130 min
Thrivecast#7 — Why is Product Messaging Important For Startups?Ready for another thrilling episode of ThriveCast? This time, Gururaj Pandurangi is welcoming Robert Kaminski, a seasoned pro in product marketing for early-stage B2B horizontal startups and a key player at Fletch. They'll be diving into the nitty-gritty of product messaging and positioning, exploring their importance, application, and the subtle elements that make all the difference. With Robert's rich experience and unique insights, you're sure to gain a solid understanding of how to shape your product messaging, set up effective positioning, and drive your startup's growth.
Here's what's in store for you:
Br...
2023-10-1130 min
Thrivecast#6 — Unveiling the Pillars of Customer-Centric Growth in PLGListen now on Spotify, Apple, Overcast and Youtube.Summary: Tune in to our latest podcast episode where Dr Else van der Berg, a leading expert in customer-driven strategies, elucidates the intricacies of product/market fit, growth optimization, and the power of customer insights for business success. This episode offers a deep dive into the criticality of knowing your target audience, strategically identifying opportunities, effective user research, and the implementation of growth frameworks. Get a glimpse of Dr Else's vast experience and learn how a customer-centric approach can stimulate significant growth and enhance your...
2023-10-0425 min
ThrivecastCustomer-Centric Growth Strategies UnveiledTune in to our latest podcast episode where Dr Else van der Berg, a leading expert in customer-driven strategies, elucidates the intricacies of product/market fit, growth optimization, and the power of customer insights for business success. This episode offers a deep dive into the criticality of knowing your target audience, strategically identifying opportunities, effective user research, and the implementation of growth frameworks. Get a glimpse of Dr Else's vast experience and learn how a customer-centric approach can stimulate significant growth and enhance your business's revenue potential.
What you're going to love about this e...
2023-10-0425 min
Thrivecast#5 — A Deep Dive into Customer Journey OptimizationListen now on Spotify, Google, Apple, Overcast, and Youtube.Summary: Strap in for an insightful episode of Thrivecast! Gururaj Pandurangi is getting together with Audrey Melnik, the go-to expert when it comes to customer journey optimization and an entrepreneur with many tricks up her sleeve. They're going to unravel the complexities of customer journey optimization, diving into the whys, the whats, and the hows. With Audrey's wealth of experience and unique insights, you're in for a treat. Get ready to level up your understanding of how to enhance customer satisfaction and s...
2023-09-2824 min
ThrivecastA Deep Dive into Customer Journey OptimizationStrap in for an insightful episode of Thrivecast! Gururaj Pandurangi is getting together with Audrey Melnik, the go-to expert when it comes to customer journey optimization and an entrepreneur with many tricks up her sleeve. They're going to unravel the complexities of customer journey optimization, diving into the whys, the whats, and the hows. With Audrey's wealth of experience and unique insights, you're in for a treat. Get ready to level up your understanding of how to enhance customer satisfaction and supercharge business growth!
What you're going to love about this episode:
Demystifying the Concept: We...
2023-09-2724 min
Thrivecast#4 — How does a Startup Implement Growth?Listen now on Spotify, Apple, Google, Overcast, and Youtube. Summary: Welcome to another informative episode of Thrivecast! In this episode, our host Gururaj Pandurangi has a thoughtful discussion with Anuj Adhiya, the author of "Growth Hacking for Dummies" and an experienced professional in the field of growth. Anuj brings his wealth of expertise in growth hacking, community building, and talent optimization to the conversation, offering valuable insights on achieving genuine growth.What you're going to love about this episode: * Unveiling the Secrets of Growth: Anuj demystifies the art of growth hacking, d...
2023-09-2239 min
ThrivecastHow does a Startup Implement Growth?In this captivating installment, our host Gururaj Pandurangi engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Anuj Adhiya. Anuj, the brilliant mind behind "Growth Hacking for Dummies" and a seasoned expert in the realm of growth, brings his profound insights to the forefront.
🚀 Here's what you're in for:
🌟 Unveiling the Secrets of Growth: Anuj deciphers the art of growth hacking, emphasizing the pivotal role of a clear North Star metric and a well-defined activation metric in propelling growth.
🤯 Behavioral Insights: Discover the essential traits that every growth leader should possess, from rule-brea...
2023-09-2139 min
Thrivecast#3 — Impact of Customer Discovery on Shaping ProductsListen now on Spotify, Google, Apple, Overcast, and Youtube.Summary: Get ready for a riveting episode of ThriveCast! Our host, Gururaj Pandurangi, is sitting down with Dallas Fontaine, co-founder of scalelabs.dev. He is a whiz in the world of customer discovery. Together they're going to dissect customer discovery from all angles, and with Dallas spilling the beans on the why's, what's, and how's, you're in for a treat. If you've ever wondered about the impact of customer discovery on shaping products and businesses, you don't want to miss this one! Wh...
2023-09-1422 min
ThrivecastImpact of Customer Discovery on Shaping ProductsGet ready for a riveting episode of ThriveCast! Our host, Gururaj Pandurangi, is sitting down with Dallas Fontaine, co-founder of scalelabs.dev. He is a whiz in the world of customer discovery. Together they're going to dissect customer discovery from all angles, and with Dallas spilling the beans on the why's, what's, and how's, you're in for a treat. If you've ever wondered about the impact of customer discovery on shaping products and businesses, you don't want to miss this one!
What you're going to love about this episode:
Why Customer Discovery Matters: Explore why cu...
2023-09-1322 min
ThrivecastStartup Growth Stack Challenges ft. Kshitij Ingle🚀 Join us as our Founder; Gururaj Pandurangi sits down with the Product Growth Expert, Kshitij Ingle! With over a decade of multi-industry experience, Kshitij spills the beans on his triumphant product growth strategies. If you're hungry for insights into product growth and user acquisition, you're in for a treat! 🚀
🔍 Highlights You Can't Miss:
🔓 Dive deep into the DNA of product growth and its pivotal role in modern industries.
🎯 He unveils his battle-tested tactics for acing product marketing and user acquisition.
👟 Step into Kshitij Ingle's world of data-driven strategies
Real Talk Zone: We're not about theories here; we're dissecting real-world examples and case...
2023-09-0530 min
Thrivecast#2 — Startup Growth Stack Challenges ft. Kshitij IngleListen now on Spotify, Google, Apple, Overcast, and Youtube. Summary:Gear up for an exciting episode of ThriveCast — a podcast series designed for Growth and Monetization practitioners! This time, our very own Gururaj Pandurangi is sitting down with Kshitij Ingle, a powerhouse in the realm of product growth, boasting over a decade's worth of experience across a multitude of industries. Gururaj and Kshitij will crack open the world of product growth initiatives, letting us in on the secrets of Kshitij's track record of successful strategies. If you're looking for a deep dive into th...
2023-09-0530 min
ThrivecastSelf-serve as the 1st Step to Implementing PLG in Your SaaS Business
This enlightening discussion explores the fundamental role of self-service in initiating Product-Led Growth (PLG) strategies for SaaS companies. Our expert speakers, Gururaj Pandurangi and Suman Chittimuri shed light on the intricacies of integrating self-serve features as a stepping stone to PLG, offering experiences from both established tech giants and dynamic startups. This conversation covers the significance of data analytics, the importance of early product and user-focused mindsets, and the broader implications for the SaaS industry.
Highlights of the Conversation:
00:00 Suman’s learnings
00:30 Introduction to the Product Growth Conversation Series
02:24 Speakers' backgrounds and their experience with growth strategies
08:21 Introduction to se...
2023-07-0328 min
Thrivecast#1 — Self-serve as the 1st Step to Implementing PLG in Your SaaS BusinessIn today's episode, we delve into the critical role of self-service in setting the stage for Product-Led Growth (PLG) in the SaaS industry. Our seasoned speakers, Gururaj Pandurangi and Suman Chittimuri, with their rich experiences in the tech world, share invaluable insights on how self-serve features can effectively pave the way for PLG. They discuss the associated challenges, the crucial importance of data analytics, and the early product and user-focused mindset that's paramount for success.About the Speakers:Our esteemed speakers bring a wealth of experience from diverse roles in the SaaS industry. Their expertise...
2023-05-3128 min