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OnBase: Smashing Sales and Marketing Misalignments

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May 28, 2025 • 43min

Ep. 536 | Agentic AI Is Not a Lego Brick: Rethinking Innovation

Episode SummaryIn this provocative and insightful episode, OnBase host Chris Moody reunites with Lukas Egger to discuss one of the most talked-about frontiers in business innovation: agentic AI. Lukas explores how companies can move beyond demos and hype to implement AI in ways that reshape business models and unlock new value creation.Key TakeawaysPrioritizing Agentic AI: Leaders must prioritize agentic AI for business preparedness due to the significant investment and potential for new value creation.Understanding Misconceptions: It's crucial to recognize the "Jagged Frontier of AI," where AI's capabilities are counterintuitive, and avoid the "Lego brick fallacy," which assumes AI can be simply plugged into existing processes.Lowering Cost of Failure: To confidently adopt AI, businesses must systematically lower the cost of failure, iterate quickly, and democratize the process.Data-Driven Insights: Robust data and real answers are essential for understanding the ROI and impact of AI changes on business processes, systems, and people.Competitive Advantage: Instead of focusing solely on common AI use cases, businesses should identify their unique, unfair advantages and engage in rapid iterations and customer conversations to discover differentiating functionalities.Integrated Innovation: Marketing, sales, and business development should be involved early in the AI innovation process to ensure that new solutions align with market needs and monetization strategies.Beyond Peacocking: Avoid simply "peacocking" with AI by replicating what others are doing; instead, focus on deep integration and solving real business problems.Best Moments 02:00 – Lukas describes his nonlinear path from philosophy and startups to enterprise innovation at SAP.05:00 – The promise of agentic AI: opening up new domains for value creation and strategic repositioning.10:00 – Breaking down misconceptions: why traditional planning fails in the face of fast-moving AI.15:00 – Lowering the cost of failure and why “small wins” are key to long-term adoption.20:00 – Avoiding AI homogeneity: how to resist the urge to copy competitors and build a real moat.26:00 – Implementing AI at scale in large organizations: the hidden value of domain expertise and transparency.32:00 – The behaviors leaders must change to avoid missing the AI wave entirely.38:00 – Why marketers and sales teams must embed in AI development—early and often.Shout-outsHelen and Dave Edwards, Co-Founders of Artificiality Institute who discuss the emotional components of AI technology.Peter Temes, Founder and President, ILO Institute, for his deep understanding of basicAbout the GuestLukas N.P. Egger leads the Innovation Office & Strategic Projects team at SAP Signavio, where he focuses on de-risking new product ideas and establishing best-in-class product discovery practices. With a successful track record in team building and managing challenging projects, Lukas has expertise in data-driven technology, cloud-native development, and has created and implemented a new product discovery methodology. Excelling at bridging the gap between technical and business teams, he has worked in AI, operations, and product management in fast-growth environments. As a founder, he has experience building lean and iterating quickly to create saleable software with limited resources while fostering loyalty. Lukas has movie credits for his work in Computer Graphics research, published a book on philosophy, and is passionate about the intersection of technology and people, regularly speaking on how to improve organizations.Connect with Lukas.
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May 27, 2025 • 40min

Ep. 535 | Creativity Isn’t Dead: Rekindling Bold Ideas in B2B Marketing

Episode SummaryThis episode dives deep into the heart of creativity in B2B marketing as Jeff and Carman illuminate the power of bold ideas in revitalizing campaigns. From the challenges of standing out in a "sea of sameness" to the unique opportunities presented by AI, the duo shares actionable insights on rethinking how brands engage, differentiate, and capture attention in complex B2B environments. Learn how to leverage concepts like the "Big Long Idea," champion creativity, and foster meaningful connections with your audience.Key TakeawaysMove Beyond the "Sea of Sameness": Creativity provides the differentiation needed to stand out in saturated markets like manufacturing.The Big Long Idea Framework: A strategy focused on developing campaign platforms that can scale and endure over time (3-5 years), providing consistency across touchpoints.The Role of AI in Creativity: While AI offers tools to streamline processes, the human element remains crucial to driving authentic creativity.Listening as a Competitive Edge: Out-listening your competitors can generate fresh ideas and create meaningful customer campaigns.Revitalize Through Buy-In: Achieving alignment from stakeholders is essential; nurture collaboration among marketing, sales, and leadership to ensure bold campaigns succeed.QuotesThe biggest challenge for creativity is the modern worship at the altar of technology. We've traded bold ideas for efficiency." - Jeff White"Happier people make better products, and better products make happier people. That’s creativity in a nutshell." - Carman PirieBest Moments (06:50) – Differentiating in Bland Markets : Jeff and Carman discuss how creativity can help brands stand out in heavily regulated and saturated industries like packaging and manufacturing.(12:30) – The Big Long Idea Explained : A deep dive into the "Big Long Idea" framework, showcasing how it provides consistency and creativity for campaigns that last 3-5 years.(15:45) – Happiness in the Making : A case study on how creative insights led to a powerful tagline and campaign essence for a contract manufacturer.(24:11) – Out-Listening Competitors : Carman shares how listening to customers and competitors can unlock fresh, creative ideas for campaigns.(36:40) – Courage to Pick Up the Phone : A discussion on the importance of direct conversations for both marketers and sales professionals to gain valuable insights.Shout-OutsUna De Boer - CMO, WhiteWater West Industries Ltd.About the GuestJeff White: the co-founder of Kula Partners, an agency designed to help leading manufacturers digitally transform their marketing and sales. A User Experience (UX) and usability expert, Jeff began building sites for the web over 25 years ago. He leads the design and development practice at Kula Partners. Several years ago, Jeff returned to NSCAD University as a sessional professor, bringing his understanding of web standards to a new generation of design students.A passionate advocate for usability and an open web that is accessible to everyone, Jeff frequently speaks on web design, usability, accessibility, marketing, and sales at events such as HubSpot’s Inbound conference.Connect with Jeff.Carman Pirie: the co-founder of Kula Partners, an agency built to help leading manufacturers digitally transform marketing and sales to deliver more leads, close more prospects, and grow their competitive edge. Over his nearly three decades in marketing and communications, Carman’s career has taken him from the halls of Canada’s Parliament to various client-side and agency-side marketing leadership roles. Along the way, he has advised Fortune 100 clients, governments, and non-profit organizations. At Kula Partners, Carman serves as lead marketing and sales counsel to the firm’s diverse range of North American manufacturing clients.Connect with Carman.Website: kulapartners.com
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May 22, 2025 • 37min

Ep. 534 | Evolution of ABM: From Traditional Targeting to AI-Driven Precision

Episode SummaryIn this episode of OnBase, host Chris Moody sits down with Jacek Materna as they explore how account-based marketing (ABM) has evolved from traditional sales tactics to precision-driven strategies fueled by AI. Jacek reflects on his career in ABM, starting in enterprise sales during the 2000s, and shares practical advice for implementing effective ABM programs. The episode tackles common missteps, such as over-reliance on tools, and outlines the importance of aligning sales and marketing teams. Jacek also dives into real-world use cases of AI in ABM, from hyper-personalization to advanced measurement tactics, and how businesses can stay competitive in today’s fast-paced Martech landscape.Key TakeawaysABM is Old School Personalization with a New Name: ABM is an extension of the enterprise sales motion that has existed for decades but now incorporates modern tools and strategiesAlignment is Critical: Sales and marketing teams need to collaborate closely, with shared goals and metrics, to make account-based strategies successful.AI Supercharges Personalization: AI enables cost-effective hyper-personalization but also risks oversaturating the market. Companies need to find ways to stand out amidst increasing competition.Intent Data Isn’t a Silver Bullet: Many companies fall victim to “intent hangovers”—placing too much faith in intent platforms as a standalone solution without building strategy or alignment first.Tools Are Not the Starting Point: Businesses should focus on strategy and human connection before investing in costly tools they might not fully utilize.Quotes"The best marketers are sellers at heart, and the best sellers are masterful storytellers."Best Moments (03:25) – Jacek’s Career Beginnings : Reflecting on how enterprise sales in the early 2000s laid the foundation for his passion for ABM.(09:00) – Enterprise Sales Meets AI : Jacek highlights moments when human storytelling intersected with cutting-edge digital tools.(15:45) – Tips for Aligning Sales and Marketing : Practical advice on simplifying strategies and focusing on shared metrics like pipeline and bookings to unite teams.(26:48) – The "Intent Hangover" Phenomenon: Jacek’s critical analysis of businesses that over-invest in intent data without a coherent strategy.(33:20) – What’s Next for AI in ABM? : A candid discussion about how AI will expand capabilities for teams while creating new challenges in a saturated market.Tech RecommendationsChatGPTResource RecommendationsBooks:The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing by David Drummond Obviously Awesome by April Dunford: How to Nail Product Positioning so Customers Get It, Buy It, Love ItTrump: The Art of the Deal by Donald J. TrumpMovie: Glengarry Glen RossPodcasts:All-In PodcastInvest like the BestAbout the GuestJacek Materna is a 3x founder and seasoned technology executive who specializes in scaling growth-stage companies. With a track record of successful exits and deep experience in B2B SaaS, security, fintech, and edtech, Jacek brings a practical, no-fluff perspective on what it takes to drive real business outcomes.He’s led global teams, launched products that generate tens of millions in ARR, and helped companies—from first-time founder startups to PE-backed platforms—unlock margin expansion, go-to-market velocity, and lasting cultural alignment. His leadership experience spans roles as CEO, COO, and CTO, with responsibilities across product strategy, corporate development, P&L oversight, and M&A.Jacek currently serves as CEO of Full Circle Insights and is passionate about helping organizations turn complexity into clarity. Whether he's advising boards, restructuring teams, or speaking on stage, his mission is always the same: drive value, move fast, and scale smart.Website: https://www.fullcircleinsights.com/Connect with Jacek.
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May 20, 2025 • 35min

Ep. 533 | Cracking the ABM Code: Beyond Strategy

Episode SummaryOn this episode of OnBase, host Paul Gibson sits down with Ingrid Archer to discuss "cracking the ABM code" and uncover why successful ABM initiatives require more than just strategy. Ingrid shares her expertise on balancing localized needs within European markets, overcoming common misconceptions about ABM, and using AI to streamline processes at every stage of account-based execution.From highlighting the importance of sales and marketing collaboration to providing actionable steps for initiating ABM, Ingrid offers incredible insights for marketers at every stage of their ABM journeys. This episode also dives into key hurdles like impatience, budget constraints, and the lack of education around ABM, offering solutions to overcome these issues.Whether you’re new to ABM or looking to refine your current strategy, Ingrid’s advice is an invaluable resource.Key TakeawaysSales and Marketing Alignment is Crucial: Successful ABM hinges on teamwork between sales and marketing. Forget the silos and work as one cohesive unit.Educate Before You Start: Teams must understand what ABM truly involves before implementation to avoid misconceptions and ensure success..ABM is Complex but Rewarding: While ABM can be more challenging than traditional approaches, its ability to deliver measurable, targeted outcomes makes the effort worthwhile.AI Helps Build Efficiency: Leveraging AI in areas like account segmentation, personalization, and research can improve the execution of ABM strategies.Think Long-Term: Patience is key when rolling out ABM initiatives. Avoid rushing and focus on creating a solid strategy before launching campaigns.Quotes“AI is not replacing marketers; marketers using AI will replace those who don’t use it.”Best Moments 01:03–02:46 Ingrid shares her early career story of spotting gaps in the B2B agency world.09:04–10:13 Comparing ABM approaches in Europe versus the United States and the role of cultural nuances.16:15–16:33 Ingrid discusses the importance of educating teams and managing expectations for ABM programs.23:12–24:57 Insights on data quality and why having a dedicated resource to manage data is critical for ABM.28:45–30:47 Ingrid explains how SPOTONVISION is weaving AI into every step of the ABM framework for speed and accuracy.Tech RecommendationsTrendemonApolloResource RecommendationsBooks:Purple Cow by Seth Godin: Transform Your Business by Being RemarkablePermission Marketing by Seth Godin: Turning Strangers Into Friends And Friends Into CustomersNewsletter:Strategic B2B Marketing: Linkedin newsletter by Thomas AllgeyerB2B leaders to followThomas Allgeyer - Founder, B2B MarketingBob Peterson - Vice President, Principal Analyst, Forrester ResearchAbout the GuestIngrid Archer is Co-founder of B2B Marketing agency SPOTONVISION as well as the B2B Marketing Forum in Europe. She is responsible for customers, consultants and the marketing of SPOTONVISION. She is a certified Buyer Persona and ABM practitioner and has a strong focus on integrated marketing approach from buyer personas, lead generation, demand generation, to account-based marketing. Ingrid enjoys writing and giving marketing training, including our own B2B Vision Academy. She regularly writes on B2B marketing for blogs such as Marketingfacts and Emerce.Website: spotonvision.comConnect with Ingrid Archer
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May 15, 2025 • 30min

Ep. 532 | Winning with Go-to-Market Strategy

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Host Chris Moody is joined by Eric Feige to discuss how businesses can win with go-to-market (GTM) strategies by setting realistic digital transformation goals, fostering cross-functional alignment, and leveraging tools like Demandbase for scalable growth. Eric’s breadth of experience—from entrepreneurship to consulting with Fortune 500 companies—offers unique perspectives on the practical steps organizations can take to achieve revenue growth, avoid common pitfalls, and innovate without unnecessary risk. Eric also shares advice on using AI and composable technology to accelerate success in go-to-market strategies.Key TakeawaysCross-Functional Collaboration is Essential: GTM success requires alignment across sales, marketing, technology, and compliance teams, with a clear P&L owner driving the effort.Set Realistic Digital Transformation Goals: Break down large initiatives into achievable milestones that deliver short-term wins and lay the foundation for long-term growth.Leverage Tools to Scale Without Additional Labor: Platforms like Demandbase help integrate insights, streamline workflows, and enable scalable, personalized outreach without adding overhead.The Importance of Beacon Projects: Start with “beacon projects” that showcase clear value across teams and convert skeptics into advocates for change, aligning everyone on revenue objectives.AI as a Catalyst for Personalization: While AI can help optimize content and enable hyper-personalized messaging, its impact is amplified when integrated with robust go-to-market platforms.Quotes"AI enables us to scale personalization, but success still lies in orchestrating the right data, systems, and teams."Best Moments (03:30) – The Foundations of Cross-Functional GTM Success(08:40) – Setting Realistic Digital Transformation Goals(13:10) – Tools for Scalable Revenue Growth(19:50) – Introducing Beacon Projects(26:25) – AI's Role in GTM TransformationResource RecommendationsBooks:Beastie Boys Book by Michael DiamondAbout the GuestEric Feige is a seasoned leader and digital transformation expert with experience as a venture-backed entrepreneur, digital strategist, and head of digital at top organizations like Deloitte, KPMG, JP Morgan, and Prudential Financial. As the Managing Director at VShift, Eric helps businesses unlock sustainable revenue growth by aligning digital goals with cross-functional collaboration across sales, marketing, and technology teams.Website: ⁠https://www.vshift.com/⁠⁠Connect with Eric⁠.
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May 13, 2025 • 41min

Ep. 531 | Before AI, Fix Your Data: The ABM Wake-Up Call

Episode SummaryThis episode dives into the critical role of data quality in unlocking the true potential of AI for ABM success. Daryn Smith shares how organizations can move from AI hype to AI readiness, focusing on bridging data silos and using AI effectively. The discussion explores practical steps to improving data management, leveraging AI tools to streamline processes, and why leadership plays a pivotal role in driving change. Daryn also reveals fascinating use cases where AI has made a tangible difference in business operations and marketing strategies.Key TakeawaysAI Readiness is LaggingOnly 8.5% of companies are truly AI-ready, despite executives highly prioritizing AI adoption.Data Quality is Key:70% of respondents prioritize data quality over AI, revealing that unstructured or siloed data hampers AI effectiveness.Leadership’s Role in AI SuccessLeaders must champion AI adoption while being transparent about the need for continuous improvements in data management and AI training.Blind Automation Can Undermine ResultsAI often requires contextual data and meaningful human oversight to produce relevant, impactful recommendations.Practical AI ApplicationsFrom creating AI-driven RFP agents to developing AI tools that emulate senior employees' knowledge, simple yet impactful use cases can revolutionize workflows.Best Moments (01:10) – Daryn's Career Journey : From web developer to CEO, Daryn details how his unique background has shaped his approach to marketing and AI-led transformation.(04:53) – The Growing Importance of AI Readiness : Daryn highlights how data silos and poor data quality hinder AI’s potential and shares insights from Hubble Digital's recent research.(10:57) – AI’s Role in Revolutionizing ABM : Daryn and Paul discuss how AI-powered tools are automating manual tasks, leading to better account targeting and personalized campaigns.(14:00) – The Disconnect Between Leadership and Reality : A candid discussion on why executives often overestimate their organizations' AI capabilities.(34:06) – AI in Practical Use Cases : Daryn shares how Hubble Digital uses AI agents to streamline RFP responses and retain institutional knowledge.(22:27) – Evolving Data Systems : Tips on keeping CRM and ABM systems agile to adapt to business changes, ensuring they retain their value long term.Tech RecommendationsHubSpot – A platform supporting ABM strategies and AI integration for CRM efficiency.Fathom.ai – A tool for turning unstructured sales and marketing data into actionable insights.Books:Hacking Marketing by Scott Brinker - Agile Practices to Make Marketing Smarter, Faster, and More InnovativeDharmesh Shah - Founder & CTO, HubSpotDave Gerhardt - Founder, Exit Five
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May 8, 2025 • 40min

Ep. 530 | 95-5 Strategy: Brand Meets Demand

Episode SummaryTune in as host Paul Gibson sits down with Matthew Creswick, Chief Marketing Officer at Huble Digital, to explore the 95-5 marketing strategy. This insightful episode dives into balancing long-term brand building with capturing in-market demand, the evolving buyer landscape, the role of AI, and how intent data is changing the game for B2B marketers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the field, this episode offers actionable advice and fresh perspectives on marketing strategy.About the GuestMatthew Creswick is an experienced marketing and business leader with over ten years of experience in the HubSpot industry. He has held senior roles, including Regional Managing Director, Chief Marketing Officer, and Chief Product Officer, and has worked across Europe and Southeast Asia.A certified HubSpot trainer with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management with Marketing, Matthew has been featured in Content Grip, the Huble Blog, and HubSpot.com. He is also a member of the CMO club in Exit Five and was recognized as an AMCHAM NextGen 2020 Leader.An active speaker and host, Matthew has presented at GWI Live and hosted multiple GWI virtual events.Beyond work, he enjoys football, golf, technology, and traveling the world.Website: https://huble.com/Connect with MatthewKey Takeaways- Understanding the 95-5 Framework: Focus on being memorable to the 95% not currently buying while effectively converting the 5% in-market.- Modern Buying Behaviors: Buyers prefer independence and typically resist traditional funnel tactics like forms and cold calls.- Power of Intent Data: Leveraging tools like Demandbase empowers marketers to identify accounts actively searching for solutions.- Building a Memorable Brand: Investing in brand equity ensures customers recall you when they’re ready to buy.- AI’s Role: AI enables scalable personalization, like crafting one-to-one tailored content and identifying actionable insights.Quotes"Brand isn’t just for billion-dollar companies with Super Bowl ads. It’s the asset that keeps your pipeline alive even when your ad budget dries up.”Recommended ResourceBooks: - Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE  by Phil Knight.- Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable by Seth GodinNewsletters:- Exit Five  by Dave Gerhardt.- Newsletter by Kieran Flanagan from HubSpot.Shout-Outs- Gary Vaynerchuk - Chairman – VaynerX, CEO – VaynerMedia, Creator – VeeFriends- Seth Godin - Founding editor of the Carbon Almanac, blogger and entrepreneur.- Dharmesh Shah - UK & Ireland Country Director, Present Technologies- Kieran Flanagan - Marketing (CMO, SVP) | All things AI | Sequoia Scout | Advisor- Dave Gerhardt - Founder, Exit Five
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May 6, 2025 • 30min

Ep. 529 | Building SaaS Moats: Brand, Community, and AI

Episode SummaryThis episode explores how SaaS companies can create competitive moats through strong brands and authentic communities. Margaret Kelsey shares her expertise on why technology alone isn’t a moat in today’s landscape and how :: community, customer relationships, and values can differentiate brands for long-term success. The conversation also dives into the role of generative AI in marketing, actionable steps to build genuine customer connections, and strategies for amplifying brand stories across channels.About the GuestMargaret Kelsey is a CMO, marketing advisor, artist, and podcast host dedicated to creating shared languages that provide clarity, direction, and personal satisfaction. In her professional life, she develops effective go-to-market strategies, emphasizing the importance of aligning internal teams with their target audiences. Her artistic endeavors delve into the exploration of subconscious shared languages to create a human connection. Margaret also co-hosts a podcast (Don't Say Content) where the conversations center around creating shared languages within the workplace.Website: https://www.kodaris.com/Connect with MargaretKey Takeaways- Technology is No Longer a Moat Rapid innovation and the influence of AI mean competitors can replicate products quickly. Building moats today requires strong brands and loyal communities.- The Flywheel of Brand, Culture, and Community Companies succeed when their internal values align with their external brand and customer values, creating a "magnetic alignment" for differentiation.- Leverage Generative AI ThoughtfullyUse micro, proprietary data lakes to train AI tools, ensuring authenticity and avoiding the risks of public LLM (Large Language Model) contamination.- Start with Customer ConversationsOne of the simplest and most effective steps to building community is engaging directly with your happiest, most loyal customers in casual virtual or in-person settings.- Experiment and Monitor ChannelsEven in saturated channels, consistent experimentation helps uncover formats and content types that resonate with your audience.Quotes"You inherit credibility by bringing customers together and forming connections they value. That builds trust your brand can benefit from."Tech Recommendations- Riverside - A versatile platform for recording high-quality podcasts and interviews.Recommended ResourceBooks:- Radical Candor by Kim Scott - Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity- The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins - A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About
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Apr 29, 2025 • 40min

Ep. 528 | The New Rules of Account-Based Marketing with Davis Potter

Episode SummaryIn this special in-person episode of OnBase, host Chris Moody joins Davis Potter live from Austin, Texas, for a candid deep-dive into the evolution of account-based marketing. Davis draws on his experience across enterprise giants and nimble startups to unpack the real differences between demand gen and ABM—and why most companies are stuck in the middle.Together, they dissect the pitfalls of outdated ABM models, the importance of unifying go-to-market teams, and the need for signal-based measurement over legacy lead scoring. Davis explains the “account-based arrow,” ForgeX’s new data model, and shares practical tips for aligning product marketing with ABM functions for retention and growth. Whether you're a team of one or leading a global strategy, this episode is packed with insights you can act on immediately.Key TakeawaysABM vs. Demand Gen: True ABM is more than just targeted demand generation; it requires a unified approach across sales and marketing.  Strategic ABM Implementation: Organizations should tailor their ABM strategy to their specific needs, considering factors like deal size and resources.  Measurement and Reporting: Effective ABM measurement involves tracking various metrics, including account engagement and pipeline progression, and requires a unified data model.  Cross-Functional Alignment: Alignment between ABM teams and other functions, such as product marketing, is crucial for success.  Evolving ABM: ABM is not static; it requires continuous evolution and adaptation to changing market dynamics and organizational needs.  Quotes“If you're just building lists off third-party intent and running ads, you're not doing ABM—you’re just doing better DemandGen.”“Product marketing is not optional in an ABM strategy—it’s foundational. They understand the customer better than anyone.”Best Moments 00:09-00:20 – Davis Potter's background and journey to 4Gex.  04:45-05:00 – The importance of aligning go-to-market strategy with business goals.  06:29-07:00 – Transitioning from demand generation to account-based marketing.  10:50-12:00 – The double funnel approach to measuring ABM success.  25:30-26:00 – The challenges of ABM benchmarks and data interpretation.  33:00-34:00 – The critical role of product marketing in ABM. Recommended resources:Newsletter:⁠ABM Tactics LinkedIn newsletter⁠ – Tactical, real-world GTM advice from the trenchesCertifications:⁠New ABM Certification Program⁠ by Demandbase in Partnership with ForgeXB2B Leaders to follow⁠Akriti Gupta⁠, Director of Marketing at LinkedIn  ⁠Désirée Daniels⁠, Retail Industry & ABM Marketing at LinkedInAbout the GuestDavis Potter is the Co-Founder of ForgeX, a firm dedicated to modernizing account-based go-to-market strategies through research-backed insights and scalable methodologies. With experience launching ABM programs at organizations like Google Cloud and Scale AI, Davis brings a rare blend of enterprise sophistication and startup agility. His unique journey—spanning billion-dollar enterprises and high-growth tech companies—has equipped him with a comprehensive view of ABM’s past, present, and future.Davis is passionate about aligning sales, marketing, and product teams around unified goals and measurement systems. He frequently speaks on evolving ABM frameworks, first-party data strategies, and the shift from vanity metrics to actionable signals. Davis also co-leads the ForgeX and Demandbase certification program, shaping the next generation of account-based marketers.⁠Connect with Davis⁠.
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Apr 24, 2025 • 29min

Ep. 527 | AI-First GTM: The New Playbook for Sales Execution

Episode SummaryIn this episode of OnBase, host Paul Gibson welcomes Hannah Ajikawo for a deeply insightful conversation on building strong go-to-market foundations and how AI is reshaping the future of sales execution.Hannah reflects on her career journey and the moment she realized that many teams don’t truly understand strategy. She outlines the importance of focusing GTM energy on where businesses win most, shares her “go-to-market building blocks” framework, and explains how AI can enhance precision across the buyer journey—from awareness to pricing strategy.Whether you're leading a sales team, rolling out new tech, or trying to scale confidently, this episode is full of practical wisdom.Quotes“If you really sit down, remove ego, and look at the data—you’ll find where you win. Focus there. That’s the cheat code.”Best Moments (00:53) – Hannah Ajikawa's career journey and the founding of Revenue Funnel.  (02:51)-04:39 – The importance of GTM fundamentals and addressing underperforming teams.  (05:54) – How repositioning and focus transformed pipeline generation for a B2B tech company.  (10:00) – AI's influence on GTM strategies and sales processes.  (12:22) – Areas of GTM most primed to benefit from AI integration.  (16:19) – Actionable advice for strengthening GTM foundations.  (22:46) – How AI is changing account-based go-to-market approaches.Tech RecommendationsDemandbase – For GTM prioritization and signal intelligence.Sybill.ai – AI-powered call analysis and coaching.Twain.ai – Tailored messaging and engagement optimization.SimpleTalk.ai – Conversational AI for real-time needs handling.Resource RecommendationsPodcastsThe Founders PodcastDiary of a CEO (Stephen Bartlett) NewslettersSubstack (for AI newsletters)BlogsGates Notes- Bill Gates' blog    Daniel Priestley's content B2B Leaders to followJen Allen-Knuth, Founder, DemandJenLisa Kelly, Founder and CEO, Radical ResultsBarry Flaherty, GTM LeaderAbout the GuestHannah Ajikawo is an award-winning go-to-market consultant and founder of Revenue Funnel, helping B2B scale-ups unlock growth and optimize their revenue engines. With 16+ years of experience, Hannah has been recognised as a LinkedIn Top Voice, LinkedIn Sales Insider, Salesforce Influencer, and one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in Sales by Demandbase. She is also a HubSpot Modern Sales Leader and a global expert in aligning sales processes with modern buyer journeys to drive sustainable growth.Connect with Hannah.

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