Predictable B2B Success

What does it take to bootstrap a B2B SaaS company to tens of thousands of users and adapt to the changing landscape of lead generation? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, serial entrepreneur Besnik Vrellaku, founder and CEO of Salesflow, joins Vinay Koshy to discuss the strategies and lessons that drove his company’s rapid growth. He shares insights on overcoming stagnation, fostering a culture of experimentation, and the challenges of scaling without external funding. He explains the importance of monitoring customer acquisition costs, how his approach to product development and customer feedback has evolved, and how experimentation is integrated across all departments at Salesflow. The discussion also covers the impact of multi-channel outreach, data-driven decisions, and AI-driven personalization on B2B sales, as well as the value of learning through challenges. This episode offers transparent insights and actionable takeaways for founders, sales leaders, and anyone interested in growth strategies. It encourages a fresh perspective on building predictable B2B success from the ground up. Some topics we explore in this episode include: B2B Lead Generation & SalesFlow.io’s Multi-Channel ApproachBootstrapping and Resourcefulness in SaaSGrowth Experimentation and Rapid IterationBalancing Customer Feedback vs. Product VisionProduct Development & Tech Adoption (AI, Multi-Channel)Resource Prioritization Between Maintenance and InnovationLeveraging AI and Data for Campaign OptimizationAutomation’s Impact on SDR RolesCreating a Culture of ExperimentationOutbound Messaging, Channel Selection, and Emerging PlatformsAnd much, much more...

What does it really take to generate high-quality B2B leads on LinkedIn without falling into the trap of cold, salesy outreach or getting lost in the endless world of organic posting? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, Vinay Koshy sits down with serial entrepreneur Colin Hirdman, founder of Rainmaker, to unpack the step-by-step process he's developed over years of experimentation, perseverance, and plenty of failures turned lessons. Colin Hirdman reveals why most people are thinking about LinkedIn all wrong and how ditching traditional tactics in favor of authentic, education-driven engagement can transform your sales pipeline. Learn how he leverages automation with care, sidesteps burnout, and uses live streams and polls to build meaningful connections, all without breaking LinkedIn's rules or coming off as just another spammy vendor. You'll find actionable strategies for defining your ideal audience, engaging them in ways that actually spark conversation, and creating content that compels, even if you're just starting. Whether you're a solopreneur or leading a sales team, this episode offers a fresh, highly practical perspective on LinkedIn lead generation you won’t want to miss. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Why focus on LinkedIn for lead generation – Colin Hirdman explains his reasons for choosing LinkedIn as the main channel for building networks and leads.Authentic, educational outreach philosophy – The importance of focusing on education and authenticity over selling.Audience building techniques – Tips for building ideal prospect lists using tools like Sales Navigator, event lists, and industry connections.LinkedIn automation strategies – How to automate manual processes while staying within LinkedIn’s limits and policies.Messaging and connection tactics – Effective practices for initial outreach and follow-up without being salesy.Using LinkedIn features for engagement – Leveraging live streams, events, and polls to increase touchpoints and value.Emphasis on relationship building – Why nurturing and educating connections drives better results than direct selling.Entrepreneurial resilience and lessons learned – Colin Hirdman shares experiences about perseverance and navigating setbacks.Five Fs business philosophy – How core values like freedom, finance, family, friendship, and fun guide business decisions.Tracking and improving success – Metrics, testing, and tweaking strategies to improve LinkedIn campaign performance.And much, much more...

What if the key to explosive business growth isn’t doing more, but doing less, only much better? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, Vinay Koshy speaks with David Snider, founder and CEO of Harness Wealth, to unpack the transformative power of specialization. From scaling Compass from pre-launch to a $1.8 billion valuation, to building a platform shaped by a personal encounter with bad tax advice, David Snider reveals the counterintuitive strategies and data-driven decision-making that fueled his journey. You’ll hear how narrowing focus not only ignited rapid revenue growth but also strengthened trust, team building, and technology adoption in a notoriously traditional industry. Ready to learn how refusing to serve everyone can actually help you serve and win over the right ones? Tune in for tactical insights on storytelling, technology integration, and cultivating a culture that delivers standout results. If you’ve ever wondered how to break through plateaus, build scalable trust, or harness the hidden drivers of client referrals, this conversation is your blueprint for going further by zeroing in. Some topics we explore in this episode include: The origin story of Harness Wealth fueled by bad tax advice.How specialization accelerates business growth and revenue.The power of storytelling and data synthesis in fundraising.Tech adoption challenges for professional service firms.Pivoting from a marketplace to a SaaS revenue model.Using content marketing and education to build client trust.Company culture and values driving high client satisfaction.Onboarding that matches advisors and clients by specialization.Strategies to avoid commoditization of specialized services.Future growth areas and emerging advisor specializations.And much, much more...

What does it take to truly transform a sales organization, moving beyond numbers and quotas to ignite real, sustainable growth? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, host Vinay Koshy sits down with renowned sales leader and organizational team builder Richard Cogswell, whose expertise spans international brands like Barclays and Wex, to unravel the hidden drivers behind mission-led sales cultures. Drawing from his own journey—being “thrust” into sales leadership with little training—Richard Cogswell shares candid lessons and practical frameworks for building cultures that don’t just look good on the wall, but fundamentally shape behaviors and drive results. Discover why “culture on its own is not the answer,” how aligning vision and daily action can protect against the dreaded boom-and-bust revenue cycles, and why authentic leadership is a learnable, humble pursuit rather than an inherited trait. Whether you’re an executive wrestling with rapid scaling, a new sales leader facing the trenches, or simply passionate about bringing authenticity and ambition into your teams, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and powerful stories that will challenge the way you think about growth. Tune in and get ready to rethink what makes a winning sales culture. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Mission-Led Sales Culture – Why aligning sales teams to purpose and mission builds sustainable revenue.Connecting Culture to Everyday Behaviors – Challenges with turning vision and values into daily action.Authentic, Lived Culture – The importance of genuinely living company values, not just documenting them.Behavioral Drivers of Results – How defining and reinforcing key behaviors impacts culture and outcomes.Real-World Examples – Stories of companies using simple language and behavioral focus to drive growth.Leadership Development – Nurturing leaders, succession planning, and growing talent within teams.Escaping Crisis-Driven Management – Moving from firefighting to strategic focus using data and reflection.Cross-Functional Alignment – Bridging sales with other teams for unified mission execution.Personal Branding and Fit – Balancing individual motivations with the company’s goals.Go-to-Market Strategy – Building actionable plans by defining value propositions and focusing efforts.And much, much more...

Are you ready to unravel the real secrets of starting and scaling a successful business? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, host Vinay Koshy sits down with Feras Alhlou, an advisor to 150 startups, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, and the founder of Startup with Feras, to explore the raw realities of entrepreneurship. Discover how a sudden layoff became the unexpected catalyst for Feras Alhlou's journey, and why most founders miss what truly matters in building trust and accelerating growth. From the disciplined mindsets honed in martial arts to the deliberate practices that separate sustainable businesses from overnight fads, this episode dives deep into the skills rarely discussed and the principles every entrepreneur should master. You'll hear how Feras Alhlou built and sold his agency to a global media giant and why learning and applying that learning is his personal edge. Plus, get a peek into his effective strategies for identifying ideal clients, incorporating customer feedback, and nurturing lasting relationships that lead to repeat, high-value business. Tune in for real stories, actionable insights, and some unexpected advice that might reshape your approach to entrepreneurship. If you've ever wondered what it takes to succeed and scale truly, you won't want to miss this episode! Some topics we explore in this episode include: Entrepreneurial Journey – Feras Alhlou recounts how a layoff pushed him to start his own business and his progress since then.Learning & Execution – The value of continual learning and strong execution skills for entrepreneurial growth.Discipline & Deliberate Practice – Drawing lessons from martial arts about the importance of discipline and perseverance.Defining Target Audience/ICP – How Feras Alhlou's content and services are specifically tailored for early-stage service/consulting entrepreneurs.Trust Building – Techniques for building trust with prospects and clients through valuable content and authentic relationships.Content Strategy – The importance of focused, audience-specific content creation.Strategy & Goal Setting (OKRs) – Setting and regularly reviewing objectives using the OKR method, with team involvement.Data-Driven Decisions – Utilizing analytics and regular reviews to inform business and content strategies.Customer Feedback – Incorporating the voice of the customer into business operations and improvement.Client Management & Upsell – Approaches to managing relationships, expanding accounts, and ensuring client success for retention and growth.And much, much more ...

What if your next business breakthrough didn't come from another cold email or sales demo, but from a single, genuine conversation at the right networking event? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, Vinay Koshy speaks with award-winning communicator, military veteran, and author of "Networking Unleashed," Michael Forman. Together, they dive deep into the secrets of transforming networking from a casual, often awkward ritual into a powerful, systemized revenue engine. Ever wondered why so many professionals dread networking, or why most companies still see it as a side activity rather than a strategic business driver? Michael Forman shares his journey from leading Air Force teams to mastering relationship-building in everything from graphic design studios to law firms, and uncovers why true networking is about giving, not getting. You'll discover actionable frameworks, the underrated art of listening, and a "secret sauce" for follow-up that nearly guarantees your efforts won't go to waste. Whether you're a sales pro, a B2B leader, or an introvert hoping to break out, tune in to learn how authentic connection and a few handwritten notes might be your biggest growth lever yet. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Networking's Impact on Business Growth: Why networking is crucial for profitability and long-term success.Networking vs. Traditional Sales/Marketing: The strategic value of networking compared to standard approaches.Core Networking Skills: Effective communication, listening, and a giving mindset.Systemizing the Networking Process: Steps to make networking a predictable revenue generator.The Power of Follow-Up: How personalized, prompt follow-ups (especially handwritten notes) make a difference.Using Technology for Networking: Leveraging CRMs and digital tools to track and manage relationships.Choosing the Right Events: Selecting networking events that attract ideal prospects and partners.Measuring Networking ROI: Different ways to evaluate the return on networking activities.Building a Networking Culture: How to embed networking into all parts of an organization.Mindset and Barriers to Networking: Overcoming resistance and fostering buy-in at all levels.And much, much more...

What does it take to turn chaotic, costly B2B events into powerful engines of ROI and connection? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, host Vinay Koshy sits down with Hailey Ingraham, Marketing Director at Event Cadence, a fast-growing event management platform trusted by organizations from MIT to Merck. Hailey Ingraham shares her journey from content marketing newbie to director, revealing the storytelling secrets that not only build communities but drive tangible, measurable business outcomes from in-person, virtual, and hybrid events. Discover the unexpected strengths that niche specialization can unlock, why evolving your event strategy is more than just survival, and how technology, when applied thoughtfully, can enhance connection rather than replace it. Hailey Ingraham gets candid about overcoming industry challenges, such as the notorious struggle to prove ROI, and shares practical tips for making your next event more data-driven, engaging, and memorable. Plus, hear about the creative giveaways that attract attention at crowded trade shows and why storytelling remains the ultimate marketing superpower. Whether you're an event manager, marketer, or B2B leader, this episode will spark fresh ideas about the future of events and the art of driving real results. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Storytelling in B2B Marketing – How narrative drives engagement and sales.Adapting in Event Management – Pivoting business strategies amid industry shifts, especially during COVID-19.Measuring Event ROI – Solutions and challenges for proving event value.Technology's Role in Events – Enhancing attendee experience with features and real-time updates.Focusing on Niche Audiences – The impact of starting with life sciences/pharma and expanding.Customer Success & Word-of-Mouth – Building growth through support and satisfied clients.Event Data & Business Intelligence – Using analytics and AI for decision-making and optimization.Content Creation & Customer Stories – Creating relatable, engaging material based on customer feedback.Balancing Automation & Human Touch – Ensuring tech enhances, not replaces, human interaction.Growth Strategies – Trade shows, partnerships, and thought leadership as drivers for business expansion.And much, much more...

What does it really take to scale a business to seven figures using only SEO, without spending a dime on ads? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, Vinay Koshy sits down with Steven Schneider, co-founder and CEO of Trio SEO, to explore the realities behind sustainable, conversion-focused content strategies that actually work. Is SEO just digital wizardry, or is it all about trust, patience, and playing the long game? Steven Schneider shares his journey from managing 40 blogs to running a high-performing agency, emphasizing the importance of building credibility in a world where promises of overnight SEO results have fostered widespread skepticism. Discover why Trio SEO insists on “boring” best practices, how high-intent content can transform business outcomes, and why being able to say “no” to the wrong clients is crucial. Curious about the impact of AI on content creation, ranking strategies, or the overlooked power of podcasts in B2B? This episode is packed with insider insights and actionable approaches, plus honest advice for anyone frustrated with SEO’s reputation for unpredictability. Join us, and rethink what it takes to win predictable, scalable results through search. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Building Trust in the SEO Industry – Overcoming skepticism and client concerns from past agency experiences.Delegation and Operational Systems – The importance of systemizing and delegating to scale a business.High-Intent Content for Conversions – Focusing on bottom-of-funnel content that turns readers into buyers.Role of AI and Human Writers – Using AI as a tool, but prioritizing conversational, human-written content.Keyword Research and Funnel Alignment – A structured process for discovering and prioritizing keywords by intent.Adapting to Search Engine & AI Trends – How changes in Google and AI influence SEO strategies.Content Beyond Traffic: Conversation & Education – Using content to educate and fuel industry discussions.Adhering to Client Brand Guidelines – Customizing content to fit each client’s brand and goals.Ensuring Quality and Consistency – Processes and team structure to maintain high standards.Focusing on Long-Term SEO Results – Emphasizing patience and realistic expectations for sustainable growth.And much, much more...

Imagine spending thousands on marketing, going all-in on trade shows, Google Ads, and webinars, only to have no idea if any of it actually drives revenue. You're not alone. In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, host Vinay Koshy sits down with Jason Kramer, founder and CEO of Cultivize, to uncover why B2B CRM adoption and sales alignment are still a massive struggle, even in the age of endless tech solutions. Jason, a marketing veteran with over two decades of experience working with brands like Virgin Atlantic Airways and Johnny Walker, reveals the "aha" moment that led him to launch Cultivize: bridging the gap between marketing spend and provable ROI. From exposing why sales teams resist CRM systems to pinpointing the hidden data points that unlock better lead nurturing, this conversation is packed with real-world stories, sharp insights, and practical playbooks you can steal today. If you're curious about how leading companies actually connect marketing dollars to pipeline growth, how to fix a broken sales process before your next software rollout, or even how AI will soon change your sales teams, you won't want to miss this episode. Grab your headphones, predictable revenue is closer than you think. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Sure thing! Here are the top 10 topics covered in the episode with Jason Kramer: CRM Adoption Issues in B2B: Challenges in getting sales teams to use CRM systems effectively.Connecting Marketing Efforts to Revenue: The common struggle to attribute marketing activities to actual sales results.Importance of Customized Training and Processes: Why tailored training and clear processes are vital for CRM success.Lead Nurturing Strategies: How automated follow-ups and nurturing campaigns drive more revenue.Leadership & Accountability in Sales/Marketing Alignment: The role of strong leadership and culture in maintaining effective collaboration.Marketing-to-Sales Handoff Structure: Ensuring MQLs become SQLs efficiently, with an emphasis on quick responses.Data Hygiene and Segmentation in CRMs: Approaches for cleaning up CRM data and improving its usefulness.Lead Scoring for Buying Committees: Adjusting lead scoring to reflect group buying dynamics in B2B sales.Leveraging Automation and AI: Using technology to boost productivity and reduce manual workloads.Measuring ROI and Key Metrics: Best practices for tracking the metrics that matter, and correctly attributing revenue.And much, much more...

What if the biggest barrier to scaling your B2B business wasn’t your operations, market conditions, or even your team, but you, the founder? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, Vinay Koshy speaks with Brian Smith, founder of Strategy Ladders, serial entrepreneur, and seasoned leadership coach who’s helped thousands of entrepreneurs unlock the next level of growth. Brian’s journey spans boat-washing on a Florida island to closing multi-million dollar deals, and he’s distilled years of experience into a simple but powerful premise: your offer is your business, and your mindset is the real growth engine. Discover why most strategic frameworks keep you trapped, which common “security blanket” hires are holding you back, and why focusing 100% on sales, especially when juggling firefighting and growth, is the first rule of scaling smartly. Brian challenges conventional wisdom with thought-provoking insights on operational bottlenecks, founder mindsets, and the art of constructing an offer so compelling that your brand (and business) can scale beyond your personal involvement. Whether you’re stuck at six figures or dreaming of an exit, this conversation is packed with tactical stories and no-nonsense advice you won’t hear anywhere else. Tune in and rethink what’s really driving your B2B success. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Brian’s entrepreneurial background and the creation of Strategy LaddersKey challenges in scaling B2B service businessesThe founder’s role as a growth bottleneckMindset and emotional filters that hinder business progressRapid, high-quality decision making for growthThe importance of refining business offers and clear positioningStrategy Ladders’ unique advisory approach—including expert pairing and mindset coachingExamples of overcoming mental roadblocks (sales resistance, undervaluing services)Building clarity and authority in business messaging, especially on LinkedInCreating a growth-oriented culture and strategic hiring (“growth hires” vs. “clone hires”)And much, much more...