Run the Numbers

Jon Cochrane, VP of Strategy at Maxio, shares expert insights from the company's latest SaaS benchmarking report. He dives into trends in pricing strategies, comparing usage-based to subscription models. The conversation highlights the influence of consumer sentiment on B2B performance, particularly in uncertain times. Jon also introduces the 'founder mode' concept and discusses innovative mergers of hardware and software in subscriptions. With personal anecdotes, he and CJ reflect on their career paths, emphasizing lessons for finance professionals.

Stephen Grist, a seasoned seven-time CFO, shares invaluable insights from his extensive career. He reveals essential tasks for CFOs during their first 100 days, such as assessing teams and understanding cash flow. The importance of a robust FP&A team is highlighted for company forecasting and preparing for exits. Stephen discusses the intricacies of managing global teams with cultural sensitivity and building critical relationships. He also offers practical advice on balancing internal projects with customer-funded initiatives and navigating technical debt. Tune in for expert tips and engaging stories!

Anthony “Tony” Boor is the Executive Vice President and CFO of Blackbaud, with a fascinating trajectory from a motorcycle shop employee to a corporate leader. He delves into the shifting role of CFOs, balancing financial oversight with general management tasks. Tony shares insights on efficiency metrics and Blackbaud's revenue strategies, including their impressive $100 billion in processed payments. He emphasizes the importance of simplifying processes through automation and recounts valuable lessons learned from his career journey, wrapped up with a thrilling embezzlement story.

Daniel Kang, VP of finance at Mercury, explores the art of annual planning. He argues that if planning feels like a finance task, it’s bound to fail. Kang emphasizes collaboration across all departments and offers strategies to streamline the process. He highlights the pitfalls of over-planning and false productivity, suggesting that companies often waste time chasing big ideas instead of addressing core issues. He also discusses how planning should evolve as companies grow, ensuring goals remain actionable and aligned with organizational priorities.

Dr. Julie Gurner, an author and expert on ambition and self-talk, joins the conversation to share insights into how top performers channel their drive. She introduces the concept of 'haunting agitation,' a hunger that fuels success and offers strategies for overcoming negative self-talk. Dr. Gurner emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, explaining how saying no can enhance focus and personal freedom. The discussion also highlights the critical difference between being motivated and going 'all in' for exponential growth, reshaping the way we think about ambition.

Joseph Floyd, a representative from Emergence Capital with expertise in venture capital trends, joins the conversation to reveal insights from a recent benchmarking report. He discusses the slowdown in fundraising and the struggles of companies in the 'messy middle.' Floyd highlights the challenges of integrating AI versus generating revenue from it and examines the significance of efficiency metrics like net dollar retention. Tune in for a witty analysis of evolving funding dynamics and the need for startups to rethink their reliance on venture capital.

Philip Brenckle, CFO of West Shore Home, shares his insights on transforming the $500 billion home remodeling industry. He discusses innovative strategies for simplifying remodeling processes and enhancing customer experience through technology. Philip highlights the importance of financing, revealing that a significant portion of projects is funded through credit. He also outlines the benefits of employing W-2 workers for quality control and customer satisfaction. Lastly, he delves into the landscape of mergers and acquisitions, emphasizing the need for strong adviser relationships.

Amanda Whalen, CFO of Klaviyo, shares her insights into the IPO process, detailing the bold choice to go public amid tough times. She discusses the importance of timing and growth, the rigorous preparation for investor presentations, and the delicate balance of managing valuations. Amanda also highlights the evolving role of a CFO, emphasizing talent development and strategic leadership. Expect entertaining anecdotes, including why good CFOs are likened to dolphins, and practical career advice wrapped in humor.

Jason Kap, founder and CEO of Blue Rocket and a veteran in pricing strategies, dives into the fascinating evolution of software pricing. He discusses the transformation from bundled hardware to standalone software, leading to today's SaaS and hybrid models. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by early Application Service Providers and the rise of cloud pricing. Jason emphasizes the importance of transparency and adapting to customer needs, while offering insights on how CFOs can navigate the modern pricing landscape in the age of AI.

Kingsley Afemikhe, CFO of Shield AI, shares his expertise on the cutting-edge landscape of autonomous jets in military defense. He discusses the critical differences between autonomous vehicles and flight technology, shedding light on the role of AI in evolving defense strategies. Kingsley provides insights into navigating complex international deal-making and emphasizes the importance of mentorship. He explores how advancements in defense tech could revolutionize various careers, hinting at a transformative future for the industry.