Shows
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.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
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
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
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
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
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#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#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#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#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#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