

Topline
Pavilion
The #1 podcast for founders, operators, and investors in B2B tech. Tune in every week to hear Sam Jacobs, AJ Bruno and Asad Zaman discuss and debate the trends, news, and developments impacting the B2B tech world. Enjoy the hot takes, strong opinions, and dry humor.
Episodes
Mentioned books

60 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 1h 11min
The AI Bubble Is Going to Burst In…
Are we on the brink of an AI bubble? The hosts dissect the current AI investment landscape, comparing it to past financial bubbles. They highlight the disconnect between soaring valuations and actual business fundamentals. With discussions on marketing strategies, the role of storytelling in the AI realm, and the challenges facing startups, the conversation is both insightful and thought-provoking. Insights on CEO responsibilities amidst these market pressures round off this engaging exploration of AI's future.

56 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 1h 3min
We Analyzed EVERY Y Combinator Company (1,000+)
Dive into the biggest study ever on Y Combinator, revealing the secrets behind its success and failures. Learn about the competitive landscape of startups and the cultural dynamics that foster innovation. The hosts discuss personal experiences with the accelerator while unpacking the advantages and criticisms of YC membership. They also explore the growing impact of AI in the industry, and share anecdotes about flying again after a hiatus, all while weaving humor into serious business talk.

63 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 1h 9min
How To Spend Your 20s in The Super Intelligence Economy
This discussion dives into the implications of Artificial General Intelligence on career paths, especially for those in their 20s. It highlights the challenges for average roles and the unique opportunities for top performers. Listeners will learn about the importance of agility in smaller teams versus larger organizations when adapting to AI innovations. The impact of remote work on company culture and employee expectations is also explored, along with the significance of data accuracy in decision-making. There’s even a humorous take on balancing travel, family, and professional insights!

40 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 32min
SPOTLIGHT: AI Isn’t Just Faster Translation, It’s a $40B Tug-of-War for Global Attention with Bryan Murphy of Smartling
Bryan Murphy, CEO of Smartling, revolutionizes the translation industry with AI, tackling a $40 billion sector still mired in outdated methods. He highlights how AI not only speeds up translations but also enhances quality, maintaining brand voice. The discussion covers the challenges of disrupting traditional practices, integrating advanced technology, and the importance of effective team dynamics. Bryan also shares insights on managing stress through slow mornings and exercise, crucial for entrepreneurs navigating this fast-paced landscape.

82 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 1h 4min
We Run $1m+ Businesses. These Are The Jobs We’re Giving to AI
Explore the dramatic shifts in white-collar jobs due to AI technology. Discover which positions are facing extinction and what roles are emerging as resilient and in high demand. The hosts delve into the need for adaptability and the importance of interpersonal skills in this evolving landscape. A humorous take on AI glasses adds a light touch, while discussions on political discontent showcase the broader societal impacts of these changes. Personal anecdotes on travel and reflections on AI in daily life further enrich this fascinating dialogue.

11 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 25min
SPOTLIGHT: Surviving the Inbox Apocalypse with Evan Huck of UserEvidence
Evan Huck, CEO and co-founder at UserEvidence, shares his intriguing journey from leading teams at SurveyMonkey to navigating the startup world. He candidly discusses the messy reality of building credibility and turning customer proof into demand. From the challenges of cold starts in sales to the importance of a strong brand narrative, Evan highlights the shifting landscape of sales development. He emphasizes consistency and community engagement as key to fostering growth, revealing the real stories behind startup success.

41 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 1h 2min
What does the future of tech look like when it costs $0 to switch software?
What if switching software was as easy as a click? The hosts dive into how AI is transforming SaaS, discussing the potential and challenges of effortless transitions. They question the productivity boost claims linked to AI, unveiling the misconceptions around 'vibe coding.' There's a fascinating debate on the future of jobs in tech by 2030 and the ethical complexities of AGI. Plus, lighthearted moments emerge as they explore intriguing facts about the Rubik’s cube and shuffling cards, blending humor with insightful tech discussions.

33 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 25min
Kyle Norton on Decoding Churn: Enhancing Retention in High-Growth Businesses
Join Kyle Norton, CRO of Owner.com and host of the Revenue Leadership Podcast, as he dives into the intricacies of customer churn management. He sheds light on the challenges of pinpointing churn causes and navigating strategic decisions for better retention. Discover how data-driven insights and machine learning can transform customer profiles and optimize onboarding. Kyle emphasizes collective leadership's role in retention efforts and the importance of understanding both aggregate and individual customer data for effective strategies in fast-growing businesses.

34 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 1h 13min
E119: What Public SaaS Can Learn from Private Equity
Discover how public and private equity-backed SaaS companies differ in profitability despite faster growth in public firms. The discussion dives into the impact of R&D spending and customer acquisition costs. Explore the complexities of board dynamics and investor relationships in the SaaS landscape. Additionally, the hosts critique Microsoft's acquisition of LinkedIn and its implications for user experience. With insights into the evolution of AI and emerging financial strategies among tech giants, this conversation is packed with valuable perspectives for industry leaders.

27 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 23min
Asad Zaman's Take: Rethinking Key Person Risk and Business Growth
Asad Zaman, CEO of Sales Talent Agency, offers valuable insights on key person risk and personal branding. He challenges the norm by advocating for deep connections with employees and customers over minimizing reliance on key individuals. The conversation explores the balance between immediate problem-solving and long-term vision in meaningful business growth. Asad emphasizes strategic branding and the importance of pacing oneself for sustainable success, all while highlighting the artistry involved in AI content creation.