Experience-Focused Leaders

28 – Predictable Magic: The $10 Billion Design Secret

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Ravi Sawhney, the CEO and founder of RKS Design and PA AI, for a deep dive into the intersection of cognitive psychology and world-class innovation. With a career that began at the legendary Xerox PARC developing the first touchscreen interfaces, Ravi has spent over four decades helping global giants like Samsung, Intel, and Lego move beyond traditional aesthetics to create deep emotional resonance through his trademarked methodology, Psychoesthetics™.

In this conversation, Ravi explains his "180-degree" approach to design: shifting the focus from how a person feels about a product to how that product makes them feel about themselves. He breaks down his reinvention of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs into a powerful mapping system that plots interactivity against self-actualization, revealing the "white space" opportunities where brands can achieve massive enterprise value. Ravi shares the "Predictable Magic" behind iconic successes—from the $10 billion value creation at Life Technologies to the viral utility of a Zyliss can opener—demonstrating that even the most mundane tools can become vehicles for human empowerment.

Ravi also introduces his latest venture, PA AI, which digitizes his 35 years of human-centered research into a predictive AI engine. He illustrates how leaders can leverage the Hero’s Journey to de-risk innovation, align global teams, and transform "calls to action" into "calls to adventure." This episode provides a sophisticated playbook for entrepreneurs and executives looking to navigate the modern "Design Quotient" and build products that don't just solve problems, but motivate users to become the best versions of themselves.

To continue the conversation with Ravi, visit rksdesign.com or his LinkedIn.

Want to be a guest on the show? Apply here.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

27 – From Forbes 30 Under 30 to Salesforce Exit: Scott Britton’s Journey Inward

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 03:30:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Scott Britton, entrepreneur, author of Conscious Accomplishment, and a former Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. After the successful acquisition of his venture-backed company, Troops, by Salesforce in 2022, Scott turned his focus toward the "Third Way"—a philosophy that integrates high-level material achievement with deep internal fulfillment and spiritual awareness.

In this conversation, Scott challenges the traditional binary between professional success and personal peace, explaining why true fulfillment is an "inside job" rather than an external metric. He introduces the concept of the subconscious database, using a tech-forward analogy to show how leaders can "debug" their automatic reactive patterns—such as stress, procrastination, and scarcity mindsets. Scott dives into the "High-Achiever’s Trap," sharing his own journey of realizing that "killing it" on paper often masks invisible strings of productivity-based worth and burnout.

From his background as a Princeton athlete to his experiences exploring altered states of consciousness, Scott illustrates how our professional lives serve as a "dojo" for self-awareness. He offers a framework for reframing life's challenges as a personalized growth curriculum, arguing that heightened consciousness doesn't distract from material reality—it actually makes us more capable of navigating it. This episode provides a profound playbook for leaders, founders, and anyone looking to bridge the gap between "doing" and "being" in an era of constant pressure.

To continue the conversation with Scott, connect with him via his LinkedIn or consciousaccomplishment.com.

Want to be a guest on the show? Apply here.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

26 – The Productivity Paradox: Why AI Hasn't Saved the Economy (Yet)

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Professor Hermann Simon, founder and honorary chairman of Simon-Kucher and the world’s leading authority on pricing and strategy. Often cited as the most influential management thinker since Peter Drucker, Hermann brings five decades of experience identifying the "Hidden Champions" of the global economy and advising world-class organizations on value and growth.

In this conversation, Hermann shares his perspective on the intersection of specialized expertise and artificial intelligence, explaining why companies must "stay deep" while accelerating their "disruptive velocity." He addresses the "mother of all problems"—demography—and discusses the IT Productivity Paradox, questioning why decades of technical investment have yet to yield massive gains in labor productivity. Hermann also offers a candid look at the bureaucratic hurdles facing Western industries and why the secret to modern competition lies in the speed of translating research into marketable products.

From his early days as a professor at Harvard and Stanford to his role in building a global consultancy with over 2,000 employees, Hermann illustrates how trust, purpose, and human relationships remain the constants in an era of exponential change. This episode provides profound strategic insights for leaders navigating the complexities of global competition, pricing in the age of AI, and the structural shifts defining the next decade of business.

To continue the conversation with Hermann, connect with him via hermannsimon.com.

Want to be a guest on the show? Apply here.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

25 – The Double-Edged Sword of AI in Financial Services

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Luke Giancarlo, Director of the FinTech Innovation Lab in New York and an executive at Accenture, where he leads digital currency and AI initiatives. Luke brings a unique perspective, combining hands-on startup experience with deep insight into enterprise innovation, fintech, and emerging technologies.

In this conversation, Luke shares his view on corporate-startup collaboration, the future of AI and digital currency, and the evolving landscape of financial services. He explains how startups can succeed with tier-one financial institutions, why focus and clarity matter more than flashy technology, and how building a strong network—or “your army”—can accelerate growth. Luke also highlights the next wave of innovation, from agentic commerce to AI-enabled treasury and blockchain applications, and the human-centered opportunities these technologies create.

From guiding startups through the Lab’s competitive program to helping enterprises adopt emerging technologies responsibly, Luke illustrates how practical experience, experimentation, and a collaborative mindset can drive meaningful impact. This episode provides actionable insights for founders, innovators, and enterprise leaders navigating the fast-changing world of fintech.

To continue the conversation with Luke, connect with him via LinkedIn.

Want to be a guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

24 – From Wharton to Amazon: Business Model Innovation in Action

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Sergey Netessine, Senior Vice Dean of Innovation and Global Initiatives at the Wharton School and Durbani Armani Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Sergey is also an Amazon Scholar and a seasoned investor, bringing a rare blend of academic rigor, corporate strategy, and hands-on venture experience to the world’s leading organizations.

In this conversation, Sergey shares his perspective on business model innovation, corporate-startup collaboration, and the role of culture in driving organizational change. He explains why the biggest barrier to innovation in large companies is not technical, but cultural, and contrasts this with the experimentation-driven mindset of startups. Sergey also discusses his unique approach to investing—not for returns, but for learning and insight—and how he integrates these experiences into teaching and research at Wharton.

From his work shaping Wharton’s executive education programs and global youth initiatives to advising major companies like Amazon, Sergey illustrates how to bridge theory and practice, build disciplined investment processes, and nurture lifelong learning. This episode shows how curiosity, experimentation, and a structured approach can unlock innovation, both personally and organizationally.

To continue the conversation with Sergey, connect with him via his LinkedIn or the Wharton website.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

23 – The End of the Hero: Why the Smartest Person in the Room is Often the Most Limited

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Stephen Josephs, a pioneer in adult development and the co-author of the seminal book Leadership Agility. With over 40 years of experience as an executive coach, Stephen helps senior leaders navigate high-pressure environments by recognizing the inner patterns that drive their behavior. A lifelong practitioner of meditation and Tai Chi, Stephen brings a unique blend of Taoist wisdom and developmental psychology to the world’s most established organizations.

In this conversation, Stephen gets practical about the "internal" work of leadership. He explores the transition from "Heroic" leadership—where the leader must be the smartest person in the room—to "Post-Heroic" agility, where curiosity and collective intelligence take center stage. Stephen shares a powerful role-playing technique to dissolve conflict, explains why "getting over yourself" is the ultimate competitive advantage, and reveals how pre-verbal childhood patterns often act as the hidden "fuel" behind an overachiever’s drive.

From his "When Harry Met Sally" moment with a meditation teacher to the day he turned down a Hollywood movie deal to protect his sense of self, Stephen’s stories illustrate a path to leadership that is grounded in radical honesty and self-trust. This episode shows how leadings from a place of "stillness" can drive better results for your team, your culture, and your own well-being.

To continue the conversation with Stephen, connect with him at stephenjosephs.com.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

22 – Stop Passing the Hot Potato: Leadership in Sustainability

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Magali Anderson, a global sustainability and innovation leader and former Chief Sustainability & Innovation Officer at Holcim. Magali brings deep, real-world experience leading change at scale—across operations, markets, and incentives. Today, she serves on the boards of Anglo American and the Capitals Coalition, mentors founders through the Creative Destruction Lab, and invests in ESG-driven ventures.

In this conversation, Magali gets practical about why sustainability efforts stall—and what actually works. She shares how staying close to operations keeps leaders grounded, why guilt and fear often block progress, and how responsibility is too often passed between companies, customers, investors, and governments. Magali explains why aligning financial goals with sustainability goals is the only way teams move, and why sometimes leaders must act first—before the data feels safe or consensus is formed.

From business model shifts like leasing over selling, to a real example where acting despite skepticism led to rapid global adoption and strong market share, this episode shows how sustainability can drive financial, reputational, and operational results.

To continue the conversation with Magali, connect with her on LinkedIn.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

21 – The $120 Billion Founder Community You’ve Never Heard Of

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Shannon McClenaghan, the CEO of StartX, Stanford University’s elite, non-profit startup community for alumni, faculty, and serial founders. A seasoned leader at the helm of one of Silicon Valley’s most powerful "secret weapons," Shannon oversees an ecosystem that has helped launch 20 unicorns and create over $120 billion in value—all without taking a single cent of equity from its founders.

In this conversation, Shannon pulls back the curtain on the "magic" of StartX. She explores the unique psychology of the founder, describing the "secret handshake" of leaders who must hold radical optimism and the fear of failure in their minds simultaneously. Shannon breaks down the power of a "pure mission" and explains why the most valuable advice doesn't come from investors or experts, but from a peer-to-peer "flywheel" where successful decacorn founders return to mentor the next generation.

If you’re focused on building high-trust communities, navigating the lonely journey of a founder, or understanding why "human-grade" connection is the ultimate competitive advantage in the age of AI, this episode offers a profound look at the humanity behind the statistics.

To learn more about Shannon and the StartX community, visit startx.com or reach out at shannon@startx.com.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

20 – The Last Frontier is Ourselves: Leading from the Inside Out

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes A.J. Thomas, the CEO of The Troublemaker Lab and Founder and General Partner of Good Trouble Ventures. A visionary leader and former "Chaos Pilot" at Google X, A.J. specializes in helping extraordinary founders build enduring companies through coaching, strategy, and mindful innovation.

In this conversation, A.J. explores the intersection of technology, creativity, and culture. She discusses her "Troublemaker" philosophy—scaling companies without losing one's soul—and breaks down her unique framework of balancing Self, Health, and Wealth for sustainable leadership. Drawing from her non-traditional background as a musician and a former undocumented immigrant, she shares how the "courage to be curious" can transform constraints into "portals" for innovation.

If you’re focused on human-centered innovation, building mission-driven cultures, or navigating the complexities of scaling at the edges of technology and creativity, this episode offers a profound mindset shift for modern leaders.

To learn more about A.J. and follow her insights, visit thetroublemakerlab.com and goodtrouble.vc.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

19 – How to Connect Frontline Workers to Strategy and Culture

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Nicole Alvino, a pioneering leader in employee experience and founder of FirstUp, a platform that connects organizations with their workforce at scale. With experience building technology solutions for some of the world’s largest companies, Nicole helps enterprises engage frontline employees, drive alignment, and create meaningful workplace experiences through personalization and innovative communication strategies.

In this conversation, Nicole talks about the challenges companies face in connecting with their entire workforce, why personalized and hyper-relevant communication is critical for engagement and performance, and how leaders can foster a people-first culture while scaling globally. She shares lessons from building FirstUp, selling to large enterprises, and creating a mission-driven organization that balances technology, culture, and employee wellbeing—illustrating how thoughtful leadership and authentic connection drive measurable business outcomes.

If you’re focused on improving employee engagement, bridging gaps between leadership and frontline teams, or delivering a more human-centered approach to enterprise communication, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration.

To learn more about Nicole and follow her insights, visit: FirstUp website and LinkedIn.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

18 – From Design Sprints to Boardrooms: Turning Human-Centered Insights into ROI

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Iliana Oris Valiente, a multidisciplinary innovator at Accenture who sits at the intersection of emerging technology, human-centered design, and capital investment. With experience bridging startups, large enterprises, and family offices, Iliana helps organizations turn insights into measurable business impact, foster innovation, and unlock growth opportunities.

In this conversation, Iliana talks about the challenges enterprises face when adopting new technologies, why human-centered design is critical for innovation to deliver real business results, and how startups and corporates can collaborate effectively without slowing progress. She shares lessons from structuring design sprints, advising venture-backed companies, and guiding capital allocation for maximum impact—illustrating how patient capital and strategic partnerships can accelerate growth and innovation.

If you’re focused on driving measurable business outcomes through innovation, bridging organizational silos, or investing strategically in high-potential opportunities, this episode delivers actionable takeaways you can put into practice.

To learn more about Iliana and follow her insights, visit her LinkedIn and Substack.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com.

17 – Your Documents Speak Louder Than You Think

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Stephan Kuhnert, co-founder and co-CEO of Empower, a software suite that helps organizations create consistent, professional, and on-brand content across Microsoft 365. With clients ranging from global enterprises to Microsoft itself, Stephan has spent years helping teams save time, boost productivity, and ensure every document, presentation, or spreadsheet reflects their brand and builds trust.

In this conversation, Stephan talks about the challenges companies face in creating high-quality, engaging content, why first impressions in documents matter more than ever, and how professional design—applied at scale—can influence trust, engagement, and even revenue. He shares insights from working with some of the most complex and detail-oriented organizations in Germany and beyond, offering practical approaches leaders can apply immediately to make their communications clearer, more consistent, and more persuasive.

If you’re focused on building trust, improving internal and external communications, or ensuring your brand is represented consistently at every touchpoint, this episode delivers actionable takeaways you can put into practice.

To learn more about Stephan and Empower, visit: empowersuite.com

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit: relayto.com

16 – Why leaders shouldn’t be the smartest person in the room

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 11:30:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Kevin Lee, a digital marketing pioneer who has spent decades helping companies grow revenue through sharper execution rather than inflated budgets. Before Google existed, Kevin was already building the technology and tactics many teams still rely on today. He co-founded Didit, scaled it into one of New York’s leading agencies, authored four books, and built nonprofit initiatives like Giving Forward, raising millions for social causes along the way.

In this conversation, Kevin talks about what it really takes to build trust, deliver value, and drive outcomes in a world flooded with automation and noise. With firsthand experience from every phase of digital marketing, he brings clear principles leaders can apply immediately—especially when teams are expected to achieve more with less.

If you’re focused on customer trust, team leadership, or building a business grounded in real purpose—not just louder messaging—this episode delivers strong takeaways you can put into practice.

To learn more about Kevin, visit his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/variousventures/

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

15 – Show, Don’t Tell: Donna Griffit on Breaking Through with Product Demos

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Donna Griffit, a globally recognized corporate storyteller who has helped hundreds of startups and Fortune 500 leaders raise more than $1.5B by clarifying their narratives and showing the true value behind complex ideas.

Together, they discuss why visual storytelling is the key to breaking through noise, especially in industries where information is dense, regulated, and difficult to understand. Donna explains why people don’t connect with text-heavy content and how a simple shift—show first, talk second—can change the way audiences listen, remember, and act.

Donna shares practical advice on crafting a pitch people care about, the importance of a powerful demo, and how showing a product in action creates instant understanding. She breaks down why the human brain responds to visuals, what Steve Jobs mastered that most founders miss, and how to structure a story that lands across different audiences.

To connect with Donna, visit DonnaGriffit.com or try Deck Check at DonnaGriffit.com.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

14 – From Armani to Regenerative Cotton: Federico Marchetti’s Vision for Responsible Fashion

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Federico Marchetti, the entrepreneur who reshaped luxury retail by founding Yoox Net-a-Porter, a public company later sold in a transaction valued at $6 billion. Today, Federico serves on the board of Giorgio Armani and leads large-scale initiatives in digital innovation and regenerative sustainability.

Together, they explore how creativity and business discipline can coexist at scale—and why this combination is the real competitive edge for brands navigating rapid digital change. Federico shares the origins of bringing luxury fashion online, long before e-commerce was mainstream, and what it takes to build something enduring in a market where everyone else looks the same.

He also discusses his current work with leading fashion houses, including the rollout of digital product passports, regenerative materials, and supply-chain transparency. Federico opens up about lessons from collaborating with Giorgio Armani and King Charles, the importance of being a “doer” around visionary leaders, and why courage—not shortcuts—has shaped every step of his journey.

Federico also highlights themes from his new book, The Geek of Chic: American Dream, Italian Style, written to inspire the next generation to take risks and stay true to themselves.

To continue the conversation with Federico, connect with him on LinkedIn.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

13 – The Human in the Loop: Why Great Marketing Still Needs One

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Randy Wootton, a seasoned revenue leader and CEO whose career spans leadership roles at Microsoft, Salesforce, RocketFuel, Percolate, Seismic, and Maxio. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping go-to-market strategy and what it takes to build enduring organizations in a time of rapid technological change.

Drawing from decades of experience driving growth and orchestrating major acquisitions and exits, Randy shares how leaders can balance innovation with execution—and why clarity of purpose is the true multiplier for scaling teams and revenue. He discusses lessons from integrating AI into business operations, building strong company cultures through transitions, and helping today’s founders lay the groundwork for long-term success.

Randy also shares insights from his current work at CEOx, where he advises AI-first and Agentic AI companies on building scalable go-to-market engines and leadership infrastructure.

To continue the conversation with Randy, connect with him on LinkedIn or learn more about CEOx.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com

12 – What Leadership Looks Like When Trust Is Your Currency

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Erik Carlson, President and CEO of Notified, a leading technology partner for investor relations, public relations, and communications professionals. Together, they explore how leaders and companies can turn content into trust—and trust into measurable business impact.

With more than 15 years of experience across private equity, M&A, and strategic finance, Erik shares why trust is the most valuable business currency and how consistent, authentic storytelling builds it. He explains how organizations can unlock the power of content by repurposing and personalizing it for investors, employees, and customers, and why quality human storytelling still matters even in an age of AI.

Erik also dives into leadership in transition, reflecting on his first 90 days as CEO, and shares his philosophy of presence with purpose—focusing fully on what matters most, whether at work or at home.

To continue the conversation with Erik, connect with him on LinkedIn or learn more at notified.com.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

11 – Owning the Problem: Christopher Lochhead on Why the Best Product Doesn’t Win

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Christopher Lochhead, a three-time public company CMO, best-selling author of Play Bigger, Niche Down, and The Existing Market Trap, and host of Follow Your Different. Together, they explore what most businesses get wrong about growth, positioning, and innovation.

Known as the godfather of category design and often called the Gordon Ramsay of business, Christopher doesn’t sugarcoat the truth. He explains why the idea that “the best product wins” is the biggest lie in business, how the most successful companies create new categories instead of competing in existing ones, and how to recognize whether you are solving a hard-to-solve or a hard-to-sell problem. He also shares why AI is replacing book-smart people, not street-smart ones.

Christopher reveals the hidden force he calls “the existing market trap,” which keeps even great companies from breaking through, and explains how leaders can escape it before it kills their strategy.

To continue the conversation with Christopher, connect with him on LinkedIn or learn more at lochhead.com.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

10 – Rewriting the Rules: Innovation and Brand Performance in Healthcare and Beyond

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Haider Alleg — strategist, entrepreneur, founder of Kaiju Marketing, and GP at Allegory Capital — to explore how innovation thrives even in the most regulated industries. With over 20 years of experience helping pharma, healthcare, and compliance-driven sectors evolve, Haider shows that following the rules doesn’t mean sacrificing creativity or connection.

In this conversation, Haider shares why the old playbook no longer works (“You can’t say, ‘It’s bad, but it’s healthcare’”), how the Content Vortex strategy turns one big idea into dozens of engaging touchpoints, and why authenticity beats algorithms when building trust. He also discusses the safest ways to apply AI in regulated spaces—focusing on verified knowledge, not automated advice—and leaves us with a powerful reminder: every company, every brand, is a product, and every touchpoint should deliver care and delight.

To continue the conversation with Haider, connect with him on LinkedIn.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

9 – From Trulia’s $3.5B Exit to Virta Health: Rethinking Leadership That Lasts

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Sami Inkinen — Co-Founder of Trulia and CEO of Virta Health — to discuss what sustains leaders beyond the big milestones. After scaling Trulia to a $3.5 billion IPO, Sami discovered that while he had trained his body and educated his mind, he had never truly trained his inner world. That realization sparked a 12-year practice that reshaped how he leads, motivates teams, and builds lasting companies.

In this conversation, Sami shares why authentic leadership outperforms the “founder mode” playbook, the psychology behind sustainable motivation, and how to create self-driven teams without slipping into the role of therapist. He also explains why a single authentic story can inspire more than a thousand data points, how cultivating multiple identities builds resilience, and the surprising “unexplainable love” test every founder should apply before starting something new.

For leaders building through rapid growth or aiming for long-term impact, this episode offers a fresh lens on what truly sustains founders and their teams.

To continue the conversation with Sami, connect with him on LinkedIn or explore Virta Health at virtahealth.com.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

8 – Mind Movies for Leaders: Persuade, Inspire, Connect

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Your host Alex Shevelenko welcomes Melissa Reaves — Founder and CEO of Story Fruition — to discuss why stories work outperform data in business communication. Melissa's journey from advertising technology startups to creating her bestselling Mind Movie Method reveals why human brains are wired for narrative over data. In this conversation, she explains the neuroscience behind effective business storytelling, introduces the Wonder Wander Effect that causes audiences to mentally check out, and demonstrates her CROW framework for crafting memorable narratives.

Melissa provides live coaching on converting technical content into visual stories, discusses her approach to building organizational story libraries, and shares insights on creating dynamic presentation formats that match today's communication standards. For business leaders seeking to connect with investors, customers, and teams through compelling stories rather than charts and graphs, Melissa offers practical methods for turning information into experiences that audiences remember and act upon.

To continue the conversation with Melissa, connect with her on LinkedIn or visit storyfruition.com.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

7 – Content That Sells: Short-Term Ammo, Long-Term Impact

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, sits down with Aaron Dunn — VP of Marketing at Thoroughpass — to explore the evolving world of interactive content in B2B marketing. Aaron’s career spans from the early days at SnapApp, a pioneer in turning static content into engaging experiences, to leading marketing initiatives that shape how businesses connect with audiences today.

In this conversation, Aaron reflects on the challenges of transforming traditional formats like PDFs into dynamic, user-driven journeys and discusses how short-form content, AI, and social platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok have shifted the way marketers engage audiences. He shares his insights on building trust and authenticity in an AI-driven era, the potential of exclusive communities as engagement channels, and how cross-media experiences can provide meaningful connections without overwhelming users.

For those looking to stay ahead in the content landscape, Aaron offers practical takeaways on creating interactive experiences that resonate and drive real engagement.

To continue the conversation with Aaron, connect with him on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

6 - From Churn to 95% Retention: The New Agency Growth Playbook

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, sits down with Luke Tobin — serial entrepreneur and investor — to explore how to scale companies with staying power in industries where client loyalty is hard to win. Luke built Digital Ethos into the UK’s fastest-growing marketing agency before its acquisition by Cadastra, where he went on to co-lead EMEA operations with 900 employees and a $50M portfolio serving global brands like Samsung, Unilever, and the NHS.

Today, as founder of Tobin Capital, Luke partners with high-potential businesses — with a portfolio that includes category-defining companies like SpaceX and RELAYTO — helping leaders accelerate growth without losing sight of culture and client relationships.

In this conversation, Luke shares his perspective on building trust with clients, scaling teams through acquisitions, and what it takes to back the companies shaping tomorrow’s markets.

To learn more about Luke’s work, click HERE.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

5 – CEO Lessons from Scaling Meetup, Investopedia & More

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, sits down with David Siegel — former CEO of Meetup, Investopedia, and Seeking Alpha — to explore what it takes to lead organizations through growth, reinvention, and successful exits. With 7X and 5X outcomes under his belt, David has guided companies through pivotal transitions while keeping both culture and performance at the center.

In this conversation, David shares the leadership principles from his bestselling book Decide and Conquer, including how to make tough calls under pressure, why transparency builds lasting trust, and the decision-making frameworks that separate thriving leaders from struggling ones.

To learn more about David’s work, including Decide and Conquer, click HERE.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

4 – How to Build, Exit, and Build Again: Shane Neman’s Formula for Growth

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, sits down with Shane Neman — serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and real estate developer — to explore what it takes to build, scale, and exit businesses across industries. From dropping out of NYU Medical School to founding JoonBug, a nightlife digital events powerhouse, and later creating EZ Texting, the largest business SMS SaaS platform in the U.S., Shane’s journey is anything but ordinary.

In this conversation, Shane shares the lessons he’s learned from building companies at the intersection of technology, media, and real estate. He explains how resilience and calculated risk-taking shaped his path, why failure can be the best teacher, and what founders often overlook when scaling a business.

The discussion also dives into Shane’s perspective as an investor and developer — including how he identifies opportunities others miss, the principles guiding his real estate portfolio (with properties like the Santa Monica Pier), and his advice for entrepreneurs navigating today’s competitive landscape.

To learn more about Shane’s work, including his book NightLife Lessons, click HERE.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

3 – The Biggest Myths Holding Back Your Sales Team

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, sits down with Geoffrey Reid — former CEO of Marcus Evans Group and author of Revenue Catalyst: Mastering the Art of Sales — to explore what it takes to build a career from the ground floor to the top of a global organization. Over 25 years in the business world, Geoffrey has honed a deep understanding of revenue generation, leadership, and sales mastery.

In this conversation, Geoffrey shares how early experiences shaped his approach to leadership, the lessons he learned scaling a major international company, and why mastering the art of sales is about much more than numbers. He explains how values-driven leadership drives long-term results, why adaptability is critical in a fast-changing market, and the mindset required to turn challenges into opportunities.

The discussion also touches on the strategies that separate great leaders from good ones, the role of culture in driving performance, and practical insights that anyone in sales or business leadership can apply immediately.

To learn more about Geoffrey and his book, Revenue Catalyst: Mastering the Art of Sales, click HERE.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com.

2 – Nobel Peace Prize Winner Oleksandra Matviichuk: How One Person Can Change the World

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, sits down with Oleksandra Matviichuk — Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Ukrainian human rights lawyer, and head of the Center for Civil Liberties — to explore what it truly takes to defend freedom when the systems around you fail. For over 15 years, Oleksandra has been on the front lines of the fight for dignity, justice, and human rights, earning global recognition from TIME’s 100 Most Influential People list to praise from leaders like Hillary Clinton.

In this conversation, Oleksandra shares how ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact, why collective action is the most powerful force for change, and the hard truth that freedom is never guaranteed — it must be protected every day. She explains how values-driven leadership sustains progress, whether you’re safeguarding lives in Ukraine or safeguarding ideas in Silicon Valley.

The discussion also touches on the resilience it takes to keep going in the face of systemic failure, the role of solidarity in high-stakes situations, and why doing what’s right is often far harder — and far more important — than doing what’s easy.

To learn more about Oleksandra’s work at the Center for Civil Liberties, click HERE.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com./

1 – From Idea to Impact: How to Make Your Innovations Actually Stick

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, sits down with Nick Jane, CFA and CEO of IdeaScale, to unpack what it really takes to drive innovation inside large organizations. Nick shares his journey from academia and Wall Street to leading one of the most impactful platforms in idea management. Along the way, he highlights what slows innovation down—bureaucracy, unclear communication, and the loss of creative hunger—and how leaders can design systems that do the opposite.

Nick makes the case for passionate teams, clear structures, and fast feedback loops. He draws a sharp contrast between the rapid, decisive style of leaders like Elon Musk and the slower pace of publicly traded companies. The conversation also explores how innovation efforts often get stuck during implementation—and what to do about it.

Finally, we zoom out to explore how companies can create environments where ideas can not only be shared but acted on. Nick breaks down how to make innovation scalable, why collective intelligence matters, and how content—especially short-form—can help companies engage customers and employees alike.

To learn more about Nick’s work at IdeaScale, click HERE.

Think you’d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit relayto.com.

62 - Understanding the Non-Linear Buyer Journey: A New Approach to Marketing with Forget The Funnel's Georgiana Laudi

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Co-Founder and Chief Strategist of Forget The Funnel, Georgiana Laudi. Georgiana argues that the sales funnel model is overly simplistic and dehumanizes customers by reducing them to mere leads. She advocates for a customer-led growth framework that prioritizes understanding and delivering value to customers throughout their entire journey. Georgiana emphasizes the importance of product marketing, operationalizing customer insights, and adopting a customer-centric approach to build meaningful, lasting relationships and drive better business outcomes.

To learn more about Georgiana's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

61 - Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Content Marketing: Insights on AI, Video, and Audience Engagement with Dental Claim Support's Pamela Wilson

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CMO of Dental Claim Support, the Author of Master Content Marketing, and Master Content Strategy, Pamela Wilson. Pamela discusses the evolving landscape of content marketing, emphasizing the impact of AI advancements. She highlights the necessity of human oversight to maintain content quality and authenticity. Pamela explores strategies for engaging different audience segments, the importance of video content, and the changing behavior of B2B buyers using AI tools for research. She also addresses the challenge of maintaining high-quality content amidst the prevalence of low-quality, AI-generated material, advocating for thoughtful, trust-building content.

To learn more about Pamela's work, click HERE, HERE, and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

60 - From Soldiers to Savvy Savers: Transforming Financial Planning for Military Families with First Command Financial Services' Kellie Richter

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the EVP, Chief Marketing and Client Experience Officer of First Command Financial Services, Kellie Richter. Kellie discusses the company's mission to support military families in achieving financial security. She highlights the importance of client experience, emphasizing clarity, consistency, and control. She also discusses the unique financial challenges faced by military families and the role of military spouses in financial decision-making. Kellie underscores the connection between employee and client experience, and First Command's commitment to community service and personalized financial coaching for military families.

To learn more about Kellie's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

59 - Positioning vs. Branding: Understanding the Key Differences for Business Success with Cunningham Collective's Andy Cunningham

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder and President of Cunningham Collective, Andy Cunningham. Andy delves into the intricacies of business positioning, particularly in the tech sector. Andy shares her experiences, including working with Steve Jobs on the Apple Macintosh launch, emphasizing the importance of finding a unique market position. The discussion covers the distinction between positioning and branding, the challenges of a saturated market, and the significance of emotional connections in customer and employee engagement. Andy also highlights the role of leadership and strategic thinking in successful positioning.

To learn more about Andy's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

58 - The Neuroscience of Marketing: Understanding Consumer Behavior for Better Results with Roger Dooley

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Keynote Speaker, Author, and Friction Hunter, Roger Dooley. Roger discusses how understanding the brain can enhance marketing strategies and improve customer and employee experiences. Roger emphasizes the importance of reducing friction in user interactions, citing examples from various industries. He explores how trust, transparency, and intuitive design can foster better customer relationships and employee engagement. Roger highlights the significance of leveraging behavioral science principles, motion in user interfaces, and continuous feedback to create memorable and effective experiences.

To learn more about Roger's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

57 - Mastering the Art of Customer-Centric Storytelling in Business with Business of Story's Park Howell

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Business Story Strategist, Keynote Speaker, Sales Storytelling Coach, Podcaster, and Brand Raconteur at Business of Story, Park Howell. Park, an Emmy Award-winning business storytelling coach, talks about the pivotal role of storytelling in business. Park shares about his transition from running an advertising agency to becoming a storytelling coach, highlighting the shift from traditional advertising to narrative-driven approaches. He emphasizes that the customer should be the story's hero, not the brand. Park covers common storytelling mistakes and introduces the "And, But, Therefore" (ABT) framework for crafting compelling narratives. The speakers also explore the importance of clarity, emotional connection, and reducing friction in the customer journey.

To learn more about Park's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

56 - From Confusion to Clarity: How Innovative Software is Changing Employee Benefits with LHD Benefit Advisors' Whitney Boyer

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CMO of LHD Benefit Advisors, Whitney Boyer. Whitney discusses digital experience software's transformative impact on employee benefits communication, focusing on the RELAYTO platform. Aimed at employee and insurance professionals, Whitney addresses challenges in effectively communicating benefits and highlights innovative solutions. She also emphasizes the importance of internal champions within sales teams to promote the adoption of new tools and technologies, ultimately improving client interactions and service offerings.

To learn more about Whitney's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

55 - Mastering the Art of Seed Investing and Startup Innovation with Floodgate's Mike Maples

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founding Partner of Floodgate, Mike Maples. Mike explores the intricacies of seed investing and entrepreneurship. He discusses the evolution of seed investing, the challenges of fundraising, and the critical importance of product-market fit. Mike shares his experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for unique market insights, emotional connections with investors and customers, and the significance of "lighthouse customers" who guide product development. The conversation also delves into the concept of "founder future fit" and the importance of creating new market categories to achieve breakthrough success.

To learn more about Mike's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

54 - The Role of Social Proof and Defaults in Influencing Consumer Choices with Tim Ash

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the International Keynote Speaker, Bestselling Author, and Executive Advisor, Tim Ash. Tim discusses how evolutionary psychology impacts consumer behavior and decision-making. Key themes include the complexity of B2B sales, the importance of champion enablement, and the role of corporate culture in innovation. Tim emphasizes leveraging pain points in marketing, the power of storytelling, and the necessity of understanding the audience. He advocates for tailored marketing strategies that address specific needs and foster long-term customer relationships.

To learn more about Tim's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

53 - The Evolution of B2B Content: From Data Sheets to Digital Salesrooms with Scale Venture Partners' Craig Rosenberg

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Chief Platform Officer of Scale Venture Partners, Craig Rosenberg. Craig discusses the importance of providing content that is both easily digestible and actionable. In today's fast-paced digital world, buyers are inundated with information, making it crucial to deliver content that stands out and meets their specific needs. To achieve this, it's essential to segment your audience, understand the different segments within your target audience, and tailor your content to meet their unique needs and preferences. Personalize content using data and insights to ensure it resonates with the individual buyer's journey. Additionally, incorporate interactive elements such as quizzes, polls, and interactive product tours to engage buyers and provide them with a hands-on experience.

To learn more about Craig's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

52 - Breaking Barriers: Tailoring Communication for Inclusive Engagement with JD Schramm Communications' JD Schramm

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Keynote Speaker, Communication Consultant, and Trainer of JD Schramm Communications, JD Schramm. JD emphasized that communication and leadership are inextricably linked. Effective communication is not just a tool for leaders; it is the essence of leadership. When JD is called in to address communication issues within organizations, he often finds that these issues are symptomatic of deeper leadership problems. Leaders must be able to communicate in a way that inspires and mobilizes their teams. Without this ability, even the most innovative ideas and strategies can fall flat.

To learn more about JD's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

51 - Exploring the Complex Landscape of B2B Marketing with BrightEdge Technologies' Jim Yu

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder and Executive Chairman of the Board of BrightEdge Technologies, Jim Yu. Jim's story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Growing up as the only Asian kid in a South Dakota trailer park, he faced numerous challenges that shaped his entrepreneurial drive. This environment instilled in him a relentless pursuit of success, which he carried into his professional life. Embracing challenges can catalyze growth and innovation while cultivating grit is essential for overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success. Staying mission-driven with a clear vision and purpose can sustain you through difficult times.

Jim's motivation evolved from a fear of failure to a love of mission and purpose. This shift underscores the importance of aligning personal and professional goals with a broader mission. Identifying your mission, aligning goals, and fostering a purpose-driven culture are crucial steps in this process. Clearly defining the mission and purpose of your business, ensuring that your personal and professional goals are aligned with this mission, and encouraging your team to embrace the company's mission and values are essential.

To learn more about Jim's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

50 - Navigating the Evolving Landscape of AI in Marketing and Startups with CrunchTime's David Karel

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CMO of CrunchTime, David Karel. David's journey in B2B marketing is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days at SuccessFactors to leading Bizo's marketing efforts and eventually shaping LinkedIn's B2B marketing suite, David has consistently demonstrated his ability to innovate and drive results. His current role at CrunchTime further solidifies his reputation as a thought leader in the industry.

To learn more about David's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

49 - Balancing Act: Immigrant Experiences & Entrepreneurship with Perplexity's Dmitry Shevelenko

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Chief Business Officer of Perplexity, Dmitry Shevelenko. Dmitry's journey led him through some of Silicon Valley's most influential companies and his current role in shaping the future of AI-driven knowledge consumption. Dmitry's career, the psychology of the modern knowledge consumer, and the innovative strides Perplexity is making in the AI space.

Dmitry emphasized the importance of working on products that you enjoy using. This passion translates into a deeper understanding of the user experience and a more authentic connection to the product's mission.

To learn more about Dmitry's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

48 - Deep Dive: Navigating the Complexities of Global Power Dynamics with Dmitri Alperovitch

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with Dmitri Alperovitch, Co-Founder & CTO of Crowdstrike (NASDAQ: CRWD, Market Cap: $85bn), Chairman at Silverado Policy Accelerator, National Bestselling Author (World on the Brink) and Host of the Geopolitics Decanted podcast.

Dmitri's journey from a high school enthusiast to a leading figure in the cybersecurity realm is nothing short of remarkable. Dmitri's passion for cybersecurity was ignited by his fascination with encryption and adversarial games, a flame that was fanned during his college years. The dynamic and ever-evolving nature of cybersecurity, a field where one engages in a strategic cat-and-mouse game with sentient opponents, captivated Dmitri's interest and set him on his path.

CrowdStrike's inception was a response to the burgeoning threat of nation-state attacks, with an early focus on China, and later expanding to counter threats from Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Dmitri emphasized the geopolitical roots of these cyber threats and the rising prominence of nation-state actors in the digital arena. The success of CrowdStrike, he noted, was a confluence of impeccable timing, groundbreaking innovation, and the decline of established competitors.

To learn more about Dmitri's work, click HERE and HERE.

Check out Dmitri's book, World on the Brink: How America Can Beat China in the Race for the Twenty-First Century, HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

47 - The Power of Proactive Engagement in Successful Negotiation Processes with Stan Christensen

Tue, 28 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Lecturer at Stanford University, Stan Christensen. Stan's reputation for teaching negotiation is more than just a series of tactics aimed at short-term gains. His philosophy centers on the idea that negotiation is about unlocking relationships and creating value for all parties involved. Stan explained that most negotiations are ongoing and involve multiple parties, making the cultivation of long-term relationships essential.

He emphasized that negotiation isn't about winning at the expense of someone else but about finding ways to expand the pie for everyone. By understanding each party's interests and seeking complementary aspects, negotiators can craft solutions that are fair and beneficial to all involved.

To learn more about Stan's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

46 - Navigating Cultural Differences and Consensus in the Retail and Multi-Location Space Market with Daniel Melkersson of PinMeTo

Tue, 21 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Co-founder and Board Member of PinMeTo, Daniel Melkersson. Daniel's journey is a testament to the philosophy that one is never too old to try new things. Of the 12 companies he started, only three succeeded, but these successes were not without their share of challenges and lessons. His transition into the tech industry and his curiosity about venture capital funding led to the creation of PinMeTo, a platform designed to enhance location marketing for multi-location enterprises.

To learn more about Daniel's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

45 - How to Thrive in the Ever-Changing Landscape of Social Media Marketing with Planable's Miruna Dragomir

Tue, 14 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CMO of Planable, Miruna Dragomir. Social media marketing is a beast that never sleeps, constantly shifting with new platform updates and demanding increased collaboration within teams. Miruna highlighted how Planable, a content collaboration tool, is designed to help marketing teams navigate these waters. With Planable, teams can create real touchpoints with customers and drive engagement, scaling their social media efforts effectively.

Planable isn't just a one-size-fits-all solution; it's tailored to the different personas within a company. Creators and approvers, for instance, have unique needs, and Planable adapts to cater to each. Miruna stressed the importance of product discovery and in-app education to facilitate adoption and habit change when rolling out new features.

Miruna touched on the recent environment's impact on marketing budgets and the challenges of churn. Miruna pointed out that agencies, in particular, face fluctuations in their client portfolios. To combat this, Planable focuses on onboarding and the initial stages of the customer journey to prevent churn and ensure customers recognize the product's value.

To learn more about Miruna's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

44 - The Power of Aligning Marketing, Customer Experience, and Team Engagement with LaBov & Beyond Marketing Communicatons' Barry LaBov

Tue, 07 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the President and CEO of LaBov & Beyond Marketing Communication, Barry LaBov. Barry shared a powerful message with the audience: "Marry the message to the experience." This principle is the cornerstone of effective marketing. It's not just about the product or service; it's about ensuring that every customer interaction embodies the brand promise. A disconnect between marketing and the actual customer experience can tarnish a brand's reputation irreparably.

Barry introduced the concept of the "commodity monster," a trap that forces brands into a race to the bottom, slashing prices and compromising quality. Differentiation is the key to escaping this trap. It's about standing out in the marketplace and offering something unique that competitors can't easily replicate.

Echoing the wisdom of Marshall McLuhan, Barry discussed how "the experience is the message." In today's world, where mediums of communication are abundant, what truly sets a brand apart is the experience it offers. This experience begins when a customer interacts with the brand, and it must be consistent and reflect the brand's values.

To learn more about Barry's work, click HERE and HERE.

Check out RELAYTO MOJO, reviewed by Barry LaBov: https://relayto.com/relayto/the-relayto-values-contract-4wyqkv3cjoo2r

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

43 - Understanding Investor Communications: Navigating Feedback and Customer Demand with Fundingstack's Nathan Beckord

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CEO of Foundersuite and Fundingstack, Nathan Beckord. Nathan shared the importance of simplicity in your initial communications with investors. Founders often make the mistake of inundating potential investors with too much information too soon. Nathan's recommendation? Keep your intro email as short as possible. He observed that founders tend to include their entire history and attach large presentations, only to be left wondering why they're not gaining traction with fundraising. In reality, investors are inundated with pitches and will only spend a few seconds skimming an email for something that catches their eye.

Nathan suggests using a teaser deck, a concise presentation of about five slides, to pique investor interest. This should cover the essentials: the problem you're solving, your solution, market traction, and your team. If this teaser is compelling enough, it can lead to an introductory chat and, hopefully, a deeper dive into your business plan.

To learn more about Nathan's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

42 - Revolutionizing Customer Experience: Unleashing the Power of Employee Engagement with Mary Poppen

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CCO, Author, Speaker, and Advisor, Mary Poppen. Mary emphasized the often-underestimated link between how employees feel and how customers perceive a company. Organizations focusing on employee and customer experiences in parallel see remarkable results, including increased stock prices and higher retention rates. Engaged employees who feel valued are more likely to deliver value to customers, creating a virtuous cycle of satisfaction and growth.

A question that often arises is whether to prioritize employee experience or customer experience. Mary's perspective is to tackle both simultaneously. It's essential to have cross-functional discussions involving both customer-facing and non-customer-facing roles. Understanding the business context and how customers will use a product or service is crucial for creating a cohesive experience that resonates with customers and fulfills an employee's sense of purpose.

To learn more about Mary's work, click HERE.

Check out Mary's book, Goodbye, Churn. Hello, Growth!, HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

41 - Discovering Sales and Negotiation Secrets Through Innovative Pitching Strategies with Intersection Capital's Oren Klaff

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Managing Director of Intersection Capital, Oren Klaff. Oren started the discussion with a fascinating story about a colleague's unconventional approach to closing a multimillion-dollar deal. This experience was a turning point for Oren, leading to a profound exploration of the social undercurrents that influence transactions. His findings, which he generously detailed in "Pitch Anything," serve as a testament to the complex interplay of human psychology in business.

One of the most compelling aspects of the conversation was Oren's emphasis on the practical application of his framework in real-world scenarios. He underscored the importance of actionable methodologies over purely academic research, particularly in high-value transactions. Oren shared how leveraging status symbols and frame control can significantly impact negotiations, establishing perceived value and influence.

He even gave us a peek into his studio setup, using visual elements to convey professionalism and high value. Oren's approach to reframing interactions with high-profile individuals to assert equal status was particularly enlightening, highlighting the significance of respecting time and integrity in business.

To learn more about Oren's work, click HERE and HERE.

Check out Oren's book, Pitch Anything, HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

40 - Unleashing the Power of Passion: Driving Entrepreneurial Success with Katana Cloud Inventory's Kristjan Vilosius

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Co-Founder and CEO of Katana Cloud Inventory, Kristjan Vilosius. Kristjan shed light on how Estonia's limited internal market compels startups to think globally from the outset. This necessity to expand beyond borders is a driving force behind the country's success. Moreover, the legacy of Skype, which originated in Estonia, has played a pivotal role in cultivating local talent and inspiring a cascade of innovative ventures.

Kristjan discussed the global ambition that characterizes Estonian startups, using Wise and Bolt as prime examples. The efficiency ingrained in these companies, coupled with the liberation felt after the USSR's collapse, has fueled the entrepreneurial spirit in Estonia. This mindset has been instrumental in the success stories we see today.

Kristjan introduced Katana, a cloud-based inventory software for small and medium-sized businesses. Born from frustration with cumbersome traditional ERP solutions, Katana was created to offer a user-friendly alternative that simplifies onboarding, implementation, and communication. Kristjan's journey from starting small to competing with giants like SAP and Oracle is a testament to the power of strategic growth and market understanding.

To learn more about Kristjan's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/

39 - Elevating SaaS Events: Creating Memorable and Unique Experiences with Saastock's Alex Theuma

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder of Saastock, Alex Theuma. SaaStock began its journey in 2015, stemming from a vision to create a content platform that would unite B2B SaaS companies. Inspired by the legendary Woodstock festival, Alex wanted to craft an event that would leave a lasting impact on the community. This vision materialized into the first B2B SaaS conference in Europe, held in Dublin, which has since grown to welcome over 4,000 attendees, including founders, C-suite executives, investors, and many innovative SaaS products and companies.

The expansion of SaaStock didn't stop in Europe. The event crossed the Atlantic, bringing its unique blend of community and learning to the US. Additionally, SaaStock introduced a founder membership program, designed to support B2B SaaS founders in scaling their businesses. This program is a testament to the event's dedication to fostering growth and providing value to its attendees.

To learn more about Alex's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

38 - Revolutionizing Company Culture: Strategies for Success in Remote Work Environments with CultureGene's Brett Putter

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Author, Founder, and CEO of CultureGene, Brett Putter. The shift to remote work has been one of the most significant transformations in the modern workplace. As leaders, we're tasked with the daunting challenge of preserving our company's culture without the traditional office setting that once served as its breeding ground. This is where my discussion with Brett Potter becomes crucial.

Brett explored the essence of emotional connection and social capital in remote teams. The physical distance can create a barrier to the informal interactions that naturally occur in an office. To bridge this gap, Brett emphasized the importance of small gestures that can have a big impact, like sending gifts to the partners of new employees. This fosters a sense of belonging and shows that the company values not just the employee but their life outside of work as well.

To learn more about Brett's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

37 - Unleashing the Power of Communication: Strategies for Success in the Digital Landscape with Coeus Creative Group's Jay Johnson

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CEO and Keynote Speaker of Coeus Creative Group, Jay Johnson. Jay brings a wealth of experience to the table, with 15 years of guiding leaders in organizational culture and working with prestigious companies and institutions. His insights on human behavior are not just theoretical; they are backed by practical experiences and millions of views on his TEDx talk about handling challenging individuals.

Jay emphasized a crucial point: we cannot control others, only ourselves. This realization is the foundation for developing strategies to navigate difficult interactions. It's about creating a gap between the stimulus we receive from a difficult person and our response to it. By doing so, we avoid the immediate, often counterproductive, emotional reactions that can lead to conflict.

Jay introduced the concept of predictive behavioral intelligence, which is about recognizing the patterns in people's behavior. Just like watching a horror movie repeatedly makes the scares predictable, understanding the recurring nature of difficult people allows us to anticipate their actions and respond more effectively. This approach empowers us to control our reactions, even when faced with frustrating behavior.

To learn more about Jay's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

36 - Authenticity Unleashed: Building Trust and Connection in Personal Branding with Victoria Pelletier

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the C-Suite Transformational Leader, Keynote Speaker, Board Director, Author, and Passionate Diversity and Inclusion Leader, Victoria Pelletier. Victoria's journey is one marked by significant adversity. She shared how she harnessed these challenges as catalysts for growth and success. Her story is a testament to the power of authenticity and intentionality in crafting a personal brand that evolves alongside you.

She spoke on the elusive concept of balance and the inevitable trade-offs that life demands. Victoria spoke candidly about her experiences juggling a thriving career with motherhood, and the compromises that accompanied her choices. It's a narrative many of us can relate to, as we strive to align our values with our professional endeavors.

The evolution of Victoria's brand is a journey of self-discovery and storytelling. Victoria stressed the importance of differentiation and connecting to one's legacy and impact. She urged us to be strategic and intentional in presenting ourselves, always considering our audience and the objectives we aim to achieve.

To learn more about Victoria's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

35 - Navigating Market Disruptions and Making Strategic Decisions with NFX's Pete Flint

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the General Partner of NFX Pete Flint. Pete's candid recount of the challenges he faced while scaling Trulia is both enlightening and inspiring. He opened up about the 2008 real estate crash's impact and the strategic decisions that led to a successful IPO and exit. His experiences underscore the importance of networking, understanding consumer needs, and being resourceful, especially during times of crisis.

One of the most gripping parts of the discussion centered on how Trulia navigated the 2008 global financial crisis. Despite raising cash before the crisis, the company was rapidly losing money, and fundraising seemed impossible. The crisis forced them to pivot from targeting big customers with six-figure contracts to recognizing an unexpected opportunity: real estate agents who needed better online services.

An inbound call from an agent complaining about their listing images sparked a revolutionary idea. Trulia transformed its customer service team into an inside sales force, achieving a 20% conversion rate and setting the company on a new, profitable path. This strategic shift from enterprise sales to a high-touch approach for real estate agents was a game-changer.

To learn more about Pete's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

34 - How to Leave a Lasting Impression with Storytelling in Business and Life with Dr. Timothy Chou

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with Board Member and Stanford Cloud Computing Lecturer, Dr. Timothy Chou. Timothy discussed the challenge of managing multiple initiatives. Timothy, with his extensive background at Tandem Computers, emphasized the importance of compartmentalization. He shared how the ability to focus on specific tasks without getting overwhelmed by the "noise" in the tech industry is crucial for success. In today's fast-paced environment, companies must simplify their narratives to cut through the clutter and reach their target audience effectively.

Timothy discusses the history of technological advancements, from the inception of cloud computing to the latest developments in AI and large language models. He underscored the role of economic shifts in fostering innovation, pointing out that significant changes in the economy often pave the way for the creation of groundbreaking products. Moreover, he stressed the importance of user experience in enterprise software, a factor that can make or break the adoption of new technologies.

To learn more about Timothy's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

33 - The Power of Positioning and Narrative in Marketing with Practical Founders' Greg Head

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder of Practical Founders, Greg Head. Greg Head brought to the table a wealth of experience from his years in the CRM sector. He had seen the transformation of CRM software and how it has shaped the way companies interact with their customers. One of the most significant shifts discussed was the move towards product-led growth—a strategy where the product itself becomes the primary driver of customer acquisition and expansion.

Salesforce, for example, revolutionized the CRM space by allowing users to try their products without requiring extensive sales interactions. This approach improved the buying experience and set a new standard for how software companies could achieve growth.

A common misconception in the startup world is the perceived necessity of venture capital funding for successful go-to-market strategies. Greg challenged this notion, explaining that the software industry landscape has evolved to a point where extensive funding is no longer a prerequisite for growth. He stressed the importance of efficient distribution channels and the power of leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to build an audience and engage with potential customers.

Positioning and differentiation in the market are crucial, and Greg emphasized that product-led growth is not the only path to success. There are various efficient channels for reaching target audiences that founders should explore.

To learn more about Greg's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

32 - Fostering Strong Connections and Credible Messaging through Gratitude with Credibility Nation's Mitchell Levy

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Global Credibility Expert of Credibility Nation, Mitchell Levy. Mitchell opened the conversation with a powerful message about the importance of expressing gratitude. He shared a poignant quote from his book, which speaks to the responsibility we have to pass on the love we receive. In a world where negativity can often take center stage, saying "thank you" and acknowledging the contributions of others is not just a courtesy, but a vital component of building a positive environment.

One of the most striking points Mitchell made was about the difference between happiness and joy in the workplace. He emphasized that while happiness can be fleeting, joy is a more profound and sustainable state that we should strive to cultivate. This involves giving specific, authentic, and constructive feedback, rather than succumbing to the "fake it till you make it" mentality, which can erode trust and credibility.

To learn more about Mitchell's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

31 - The Most Important Marketing Execution Strategies for Business Growth with Octain Growth Systems' Clare Price

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the President and CEO of Octain Growth Systems, Clare Price. Clare emphasized the need for a strategic foundation in marketing. Without a blueprint, businesses can get caught in a cycle of frantic marketing activity, which hinders their ability to grow. Clare discussed the concept of "hamster marketing," where businesses constantly run in circles without a clear plan, leading to burnout and talent loss.

Another issue touched on was "lottery marketing," where businesses throw money at various tactics without a strategic approach. Clare highlighted the importance of effective marketing execution for business growth and the need to get in front of enough prospects to generate revenue.

Clare highlighted the role of content in driving growth, both at the top of the sales funnel and throughout the buyer journey. She emphasized the importance of personalized and targeted content that resonates with specific niche audiences. Clare advises businesses to understand their ideal customers' values, motivations, needs, wants, desires, and buying patterns to create content that produces results.

Clare discussed the common mistake of producing content without proper consideration and the need to shift the focus from "what we do" to "how we can help." Clare talked about the ineffectiveness of generic blogs and the value of user-generated content in building trust and accountability.

To learn more about Clare's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

30 - Breaking the Mold: Integrating Personal and Professional Growth for Success with Next Level University's Alan Lazaros

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CEO and Founder of Next Level University, Alan Lazaros. Alan Lazaros, a peak performance business coach, shared his journey and reflected on his growth and learning over the years. He emphasized the importance of integrating personal and professional development, a topic often overlooked in business.

One of the most intriguing parts of the conversation was when Alan discussed people's top regrets on their deathbeds and how they can be translated into professional life. Alan shared examples of listeners focused on one aspect more than the other. He noted that those who prioritize professional development tend to be successful and wealthy, while those who prioritize personal development excel in relationships.

Alan added that leadership is a universal craft that can be applied in various roles, including parenting. He challenged the idea of work-life balance, stating that work and life are not separate, especially in the remote work era. He mentioned his girlfriend, who is also his business partner, and their podcast that blurs the line between work and life.

To learn more about Alan's work, click HERE and HERE.

Check out Alan's podcast, Next Level University, HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at RELAYTO? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

29 - The Role of Customer, Buyer and Employee Experience in Standing Out and Winning with Kodi Collective's Eric West

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko talks with the Senior Vice President of Kodi Collective, Eric West. "One of the privileges of being a founder is you get to work with customers who have innovation in their blood and who help you co-create a change in the world. The only thing that’s better is a 2x super-customer like Eric West! First as a senior leader at one of the Omnicom Media Group’s agencies and now at Kodi Collective (global leader in marketing executions services) with origins from the legendary RR Donnely print & publishing conglomerate."

To learn more about Eric's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

To learn more about RELAYTO, visit https://relayto.com/.

28 - Managing a High Growth Organization in a Mature Industry with RJ Grimshaw

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0400

In this podcast episode, Alex Shevchenko, CEO of Relayto, and RJ Grimshaw, CEO of UniFi Equipment Finance, discuss the importance of entrepreneurship within established businesses.

Grimshaw shares his experience of growing UniFi from $13 million to $120 million in revenue in six years, attributing this success to the Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS). They discuss the value of fostering entrepreneurial qualities in employees, the significance of aligning personal and company values, and the importance of customer-centricity. The conversation also covers effective communication, learning from failure, and the role of risk-taking in entrepreneurship. Grimshaw emphasizes the need for authenticity and conscientiousness in business leadership.

To learn more about RJ's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

27 - Building on Purpose: The Crucial Role of Personal Values in Entrepreneurial Success with Lloyed Lobo

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0400

In this podcast episode, entrepreneur Lloyed Lobo shares his insights on building successful businesses through community-led growth. He discusses the importance of defining personal success, understanding customer needs, and focusing on a growing target audience.

He also highlights the significance of creating a community around a startup, citing examples of successful businesses like Atlassian. He also advises on the importance of engaging with the audience consistently and understanding their pain points. Lobo shares his journey of bootstrapping his business, the importance of finding meaning in work, and his personal definition of success. The conversation also touches on the startup ecosystem's obsession with venture capital and the potential for alternative paths to success.

To learn more about Lloyed's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

26 - Sustainability in Action: Transforming Businesses for Positive Impact with Business for Social Responsibility's Laura Gitman

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Chief Impact Officer of Business for Social Responsibility, Laura Gitman. Laura, a game-changer in the field of sustainability, shed light on BSR's mission, which has remained steadfast for over 30 years. The organization's primary focus is to work directly with large businesses due to their significant impact and ambition. BSR offers membership to companies, providing them with thought leadership, advice, networking opportunities, and collaboration.

Unlike other consulting firms that offer cookie-cutter solutions, BSR focuses on leading-edge work. They engage in multi-company or collaborative work, bringing together competitors to solve specific issues. They also conduct grant-funded research to stay ahead of cutting-edge sustainability issues.

One of the key takeaways from the conversation was Laura's emphasis on the misconception about companies and sustainability. She clarified that there doesn't have to be a trade-off between profitability and sustainability. In fact, she believes that companies can be both profitable and sustainable. It's a positive thing when companies pursue sustainability for profitability because it means they are more likely to invest in sustainable practices in the long term.

To learn more about Laura's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

25 - Unveiling Value and Transparency in ProductLed Strategies with ProductLed's Wes Bush

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CEO of ProductLed, Wes Bush. Wes is the author of the book "Product-Led Growth: How to Build a Product That Sells Itself," which has been read by over half a million people. The conversation revolved around creating experiences, particularly content experiences, and how they support various aspects of business growth. Wes, as a content-led business owner and an expert in product-led growth, provided valuable insights into what product-led growth means and how it is evolving.

Wes defines product-led growth as using the product to acquire, engage, and monetize users. He emphasized the importance of creating a product that sells itself and delivers an exceptional user experience. This approach contrasts with the traditional sales journey, focusing on selling and then engaging customers. In product-led growth, the emphasis is on acquiring, engaging, and then monetizing customers. Wes explained that this shift changes everything in how businesses approach acquisition, engagement, and monetization.

Wes discussed the challenges of implementing a product-led growth strategy. One of the difficulties is that the category is still immature, so people may not fully understand the problem that the product solves. Wes also talked about the importance of creating a content journey that guides customers through the decision-making process. This involves providing content assets that help customers think through the decision of whether the product is right for them.

To learn more about Wes' work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

24 - The Most Effective Strategies for Small Business Owners in the M&A Market with FE International's Thomas Smale

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CEO of FE International, Thomas Smale. FE International specializes in tech-focused M&A advisory services for businesses in the $1 to $100 million exit sector. With over 1500 deals closed and a total value of over $50 billion, Thomas' experience in the SaaS, e-commerce, and digital media content categories is awe-inspiring.

One of the key topics discussed was why small business owners choose to engage with Thomas and pursue an M&A exit strategy. Thomas firmly believes that every entrepreneur should have an exit strategy in mind, even if it's not immediate. Whether it's due to personal or financial changes, or the emergence of a new business opportunity, having a specific financial exit goal is crucial.

Thomas shared his insights on the changing landscape of M&A deals. He explained that while strategic acquisitions are still important, the opportunistic aspect of M&A is becoming more challenging. Interestingly, he mentioned that buyers are becoming more disciplined but also more creative. For instance, private equity funds that previously wouldn't consider deals below a certain valuation are now open to smaller deals. This means that there is a lot of demand for relatively small businesses with valuations below $100 million.

Thomas emphasized the importance of focusing on building a good business rather than solely planning for an exit. He cautioned against getting caught up in specific metrics that may not be relevant to every business and advised entrepreneurs to prioritize revenue growth and the overall size of their business. He also highlighted the significance of profitability and tangible results, rather than relying on potential and big visions that have yet to be realized.

To learn more about Thomas' work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

23 - Enhancing the Buying and Selling Experience with Categorynauts' Mark Organ

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CEO, Host, and Head Coach of Categorynauts, Mark Organ. Mark Organ is a firm believer in the power of customer advocacy. Firstly, customers should feel like part of the team, this sense of identity and connection can turn them into "superheroes" for the brand. Secondly, it's crucial to show customers the impact they're making on the company. Lastly, companies should help their customer advocates prosper in their personal and professional lives. This can be achieved by providing opportunities for career growth, such as writing content or speaking at events.

Category development is all about serving a specific persona or niche. In the case of Eloqua, these were the demand-generation professionals who came from engineering and sales backgrounds. By focusing on serving these professionals, Eloqua was able to dominate the category and achieve significant growth.

In today's digital age, capturing attention is a challenge. Mark believes that community plays a crucial role in creating relevant content, allowing companies to mobilize their best customers and involve them in content creation.

To learn more about Mark's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

22 - From Operational Roles to Marketing Genius: Domestic & General's Sustainability Mission with Domestic & General's Gayle Terry

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the President and Chief Marketing Officer of Domestic & General, Gayle Terry. Gayle's career trajectory is unique, starting in general management before transitioning into marketing. Her passion for customer experience and marketing developed from working in industries that didn't prioritize the customer. She started in operational roles, running contact centers and field forces, which allowed her to understand customer interactions and employee needs.

This experience was instrumental in her transition into customer retention and product development roles, broadening her understanding of business factors that contribute to a great customer outcome. Gayle talks about the importance of connecting the dots between customer experience, employee engagement, and business profitability.

Domestic & General operates as a B2B2C brand, collaborating with well-known manufacturers and retailers to offer protection plans. This partnership with various brands means they have a diverse range of customers with different demographics and interests. To cater to these customers, the company invests in data-driven marketing and data science to understand individual customer needs and provide personalized offers.

To learn more about Gayle's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

21 - Understanding Growth as a Function within Organizations with HyperGrowth Global Partners' Guillaume "G" Cabane

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Co-Founder and GP of HyperGrowth Global Partners, Guillaume "G" Cabane. As the "godfather of growth," Guillaume's approach to growth and how he helps teams transition from relying on tried and true methods to embracing experimentation. Guillaume comes prepared with a bag of tricks based on his past successes but gradually encourages teams to take more risks and try new things.

The concept of growth as we know it today originated from B2C platforms like Facebook, which had the advantage of testing different website experiences due to their high usage volume. This approach gradually made its way into the B2B world in the mid-2000s, albeit with a focus on demand generation and growth hacking. Despite B2B companies not having the same volume as B2C platforms, they still employ engineers and analysts to drive growth. Guillaume also highlighted the emergence of product-led growth (PLG) in B2B SaaS companies, where growth teams concentrate on testing and optimizing the app. However, he noted that many businesses adopt a combination of PLG and sales-led approaches, depending on their specific needs.

Failure is a normal part of the job for growth teams, as they launch multiple experiments to find the ones that succeed. You're challenged as a growth leader to maintain the different mindsets required for growth teams as the company scales.

To learn more about Guillaume's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

20 - Revolutionizing Video Collaboration for Content Creation Teams with Scenery's Mike Folgner

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Co-Founder and CEO of Scenery, Mike Folgner. Mike's journey began at Stanford Business School, where he started his first company, Jump Cut, founded in 2005, focused on video sharing and allowed users to share videos without the need for downloading. This was a revolutionary concept at a time when video was primarily shot on film. With the idea of bringing digital sharing to video. Inspired by the success of photo-sharing platforms like Shutterfly.

Mike saw the rise of social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, which were feeding the virality of YouTube videos. Recognizing the structural limitations of incumbents like Yahoo, he saw an opportunity to create a platform that allowed rights holders to quickly post highlights to social media.

Mike believes that the future of content will involve deeply integrating video with other mediums, allowing for different learning styles and preferences. Mike acknowledges the potential of AI in content creation but believes that human decision-making and editorial processes should remain the primary drivers. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and teamwork in the content creation process.

To learn more about Mike's work at Scenery, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

19 - IBM's Winning Formula: Client-Centric Approach to Delivering Value and Achieving Success with IBM's Anthony Coppedge

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, your host Alex speaks to Sales with Marketing Business Agility & OKRs Master Coach at IBM, Anthony Coppedge.

Anthony, a leader in global digital sales at IBM, discusses his approach to enterprise sales and how he is driving agility at IBM. He emphasizes the importance of a client-centric approach, learning from failures, and adopting a servant leadership mindset. Anthony also shares the five values they promote at IBM: respect, openness, courage, empathy, and trust.

Alex and Anthony also discuss the importance of adopting a service-oriented mindset in B2B sales and how AI and digital tools can enhance the customer experience and drive better sales outcomes. Anthony also stresses the importance of agility in sales and marketing teams and the need for alignment between these teams.

To learn more about Anthony's work at IBM, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

18 - Navigating the Business Landscape with the Godfather of MarTech, Interactive Content, and HubSpot's Ecosystem

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the VP at Platform Ecosystem of HubSpot, Scott Brinker. Joining us today is the godfather and one of the biggest influencers in the MarTech Community, Scott Brinker — the VP of Platform Ecosystem at HubSpot! Scott Brinker has over 20 years of experience at the intersection of marketing and software. He is the creator and editor of the Chief MarTech blog. He is also the founding Program Chair of the MarTech Conference and author of the book “Hacking Marketing: Agile Practices to make marketing smarter, faster, and more innovative”. Scott is a frequent keynote speaker on marketing and technology topics worldwide and has written articles published by AdAge, Adweek, Harvard Business Review, InformationWeek, TechCrunch, and VentureBeat.

To learn more about Scott's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

17 - A Journey Through the Insurance Technology Landscape with The InsurTech Queen with Alchemy Crew's Sabine VanderLinden

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Co-Founder, CEO, and Managing Partner of Alchemy Crew, Sabine VanderLinden. Alchemy Crew validates corporate venturing activities for established market players to yield successful collaborations and partnerships. They deploy commercialization frameworks to accelerate the most effective engagement with FutureTech growth ventures. They do so to create long-term sustainable impact, turning emerging threats into an unfair advantage.

Alchemy Crew doesn’t leave corporate venturing to chance. Their Virtual Venture Labs are 4 to 6-month engagement and acceleration mechanisms that turn venture validation and commercialization activities into reliable, scalable, repeatable co-creation processes. Their goal is to industrialize and democratize your corporate venturing initiatives.

To learn more about Sabine's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

16 - Cracking the Code: Achieving Product-Market Fit with Customer Centric Solutions

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder of Lookout, Kevin Mahaffey. Lookout Cloud Security Platform is the only cloud-native solution that delivers zero trust security by reducing risk and protecting your corporate data on any device, any app, and any location. With a centralized dashboard and unified policy framework, Lookout helps you consolidate vendors for endpoint security and cloud security.

Lookout's mission is to secure and empower productivity in a privacy-focused world, where work can happen anywhere. As the leading provider of Data-Centric Cloud Security, Lookout sets a new standard for helping businesses protect the sensitive data and information they care about most.

To learn more about Kevin's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

15 - The Art of Building Rapport and Using Humor in Sales with Glenn Poulos

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Vice President and General Manager of NWS, Glenn Poulos. Established in 2012, NWS is a technology infrastructure solutions provider committed to helping companies of all sizes build the connected world of today and tomorrow. From custom connectivity, kitting, logistics, telecom infrastructure materials, and test and measurement solutions, their goal is to develop and deliver solutions for what the world needs next.

NWS's cable solutions showcase cutting-edge copper, fiber, and hybrid designs. With a proficient team of engineers, manufacturing, and supply chain experts, they can tailor these custom cable solutions to your precise specifications, ensuring your organization benefits from the most reliable and efficient telecom solutions on the market.

To learn more about Glenn's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

14 - Revolutionizing B2B Sales in a Post-COVID Landscape with Modern Revenue Strategies' Mark Osborne

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the best-selling author on B2B Marketing and Sales for Early Stage SaaS, Tech, and B2B Services of Modern Revenue Strategies, Mark Osborne. Working with CEOs and Sales Leaders at SaaS, Tech, and B2B Services firms for the last 20 years, Modern Revenue Strategies knows the importance of system-based solutions for growth; using data and technology for Revenue Systems that attract the right customers, Accelerate opportunities through the Pipeline, and Activate clients for renewals, upsells, and referrals.

Mark Osborne. Recognized by AdAge Magazine as a “Marketing Technology Trailblazer" in 2017, Mark Osborne brings decades of experience creating Revenue Systems that integrate Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success for SaaS, Technology, and B2B Services firms navigating long sales cycles and complex buying committees to secure large contracts.

To learn more about Mark's work, click HERE, HERE, and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

13 - Navigating Markets and Relationships for Growth with Steve King

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the board member, strategic advisor, and investor in early-stage technology companies, Steve King. A five-time CEO with many exits to boot and now sits on the boards of exciting companies. Known as a pioneer in the field, Steve is not only a mentor and investor but also a friend.

Steve's perspective is truly inspiring. His advice is to stay calm and put things into perspective, actively involving oneself and taking control of the situation rather than being a passive observer. He has played a significant role in building definitive cloud companies, and his wisdom is invaluable. Steve realized the potential of DocuSign. He saw that there were other companies in the space but no major players or market research on electronic signatures. After conducting research and evaluating the product and management team, Steve was convinced that there was a market for DocuSign.

To learn more about Steve's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

12 - The Most Effective Strategy for Software Companies to Achieve Rapid Growth with OpenView Venture Partners' Kyle Poyar

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Operating Partner of OpenView Venture Partners, Kyle Poyar. OpenView was founded in 2006 on a mission to improve people’s working lives. They invest in the best expansion-stage software companies and then work hard to help those companies become market leaders. OpenView has raised a total of $2.4 billion across its seven funds. OpenView exclusively invests in software companies at the expansion stage.

OpenView targets seven to nine new investments per year, a concentrated approach that allows them to meaningfully support their portfolio companies post-investment. OpenView's focus on the expansion stage for nearly two decades means they’ve been a trusted partner to some of the biggest successes in software history.

To learn more about Kyle's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

11 - Driving Business Growth Through People-Centric Strategies and Successful Partnerships with Aaron Au

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with Aaron Au. Aaron co-founded SuccessFactors, a company that became a global leader in cloud-based HR software. It went public in 2007 and was later sold to SAP for a staggering $3,4 billion. Aaron also served as the president of SAP Gem Collaboration Division, boasting over 50 million subscribers.

Aaron is a true pioneer in the software as a service (SaaS) revolution, and his journey offers invaluable insights for anyone interested in the world of tech startups and SaaS.

To learn more about Aaron's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/

10 - Turning Your Marketing Into Dollars with Wharton Marketing Dept.'s Dr. Peter Fader

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Professor of Wharton Marketing Dept., Dr. Peter Fader.

Dr. Peter Fader is a professor at Wharton Marketing Department, researching thing such as: the lifetime value of the customer, sales forecasting for new products, using behavioral data to understand and forecast shopping/purchasing activities across a wide range of industries, and managerial applications with focus on topics such as customer relationship management.

He is a winner of the Frances and Pei-Yuan Chia Professorship by demonstrating an interdisciplinary approach to business teaching and research, especially in retailing, marketing, banking and information technology.

He also works with firms from a wide range of industries, like telecommunications, financial services, gaming/entertainment, retail, and pharmaceuticals.

To learn more about Peter's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com.

9 - Mastering Effective Marketing Communication Principles with UniSphere Ideas' Ben Guttmann

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Advisor and Fractional CMO of UniSphere Ideas and author of the book Simply Put, Ben Guttmann.

Ben Guttmann is a Marketing Entrepreneur, educator and writer. He assists good individuals and well-known brands in communicating their importance to the world. He frequently gives talks on marketing, branding, business, and technology at conferences, businesses, and universities.

Ben ran the Digital Natives Group for 10 years. The group started as a small town business and then grew into a partnership with various well-known organizations. They published over 60 best-selling books from major publishing companies, including works from acclaimed individuals.

Ben started his career by working with small ice cream shops and camera repair stores. Now, he is known as a major player in the world of branding, working with multi-billion dollar industries and other successful companies.

To learn more about Ben's work, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com.

8 - Turning Your Customers Into Your Biggest Champions with Alteryx's Dean Stoecker

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder, CEO, and Executive Chairman of Alteryx, Dean Stoecker. Data-driven decisions matter now more than ever. Drive business value at scale by empowering everyone to generate insights from data. Alteryx is enterprise-ready so you can be ready for anything. Alteryx customers understand the power of data and analytics. That’s why they chose Alteryx to help empower their employees to make transformational outcomes.

They help customers win by making data easy to access and use by everyone – for immediate value, higher operational efficiency, and lower risk.

To learn more about Dean's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com.

7 - Crafting Compelling Stories in Startups and Show Production with Blaine Graboyes

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with Founder, Investor, Artist, and Inventor, Blaine Graboyes. Blaine is a category pioneer, an idea-stage investor, and an advisor, as well as an artist and inventor. He has nearly 30 years of experience launching and commercializing innovations in the technology, media, and gaming industries. Blaine holds multiple patents for his innovations and inventions primarily focused on skill-based games and video game gambling.

To learn more about Blaine's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at Relayto.com.

6 - Where You Go for Software: Reach Your Peak with G2's Godard Abel

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder and CEO of G2, Godard Abel. G2 is the largest and most trusted software marketplace. More than 80 million people annually—including employees at all Fortune 500 companies—use G2 to make smarter software decisions based on authentic peer reviews.

G2 is democratizing software, disrupting the traditional analyst model, and building trust by showcasing the authentic voice of millions of software buyers. When you choose software based on the experiences of people just like you, you can reach your true potential.

To learn more about Godard's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

5 - Cultivating Connection, Ownership, and Accountability in Distributed Teams with Empathy Firm's Paul Pritchard

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the CEO of Overdose Digital, Paul Pritchard. Overdose Digital has envisaged a global Digital Commerce Anti-Agency with enterprise capability. Overdose Digital provides a complete suite of Digital Commerce services with the capability to deliver across the full functional needs of high-performing B2C & B2B retailers. Their Service Pillars are all led by noted industry experts, and their Client Success process ensures clients have unfettered access to talent through the distributed retainer model.

Paul Pritchard is a digital visionary, challenging the traditional agency model to deliver exceptional business outcomes. Under Paul's leadership, Overdose achieved widespread recognition in the digital transformation industry. Paul's work at Ogilvy, growing brands and businesses through borderless creativity—operating, innovating, and creating at the intersection of talent and capabilities, has aided him in his visionary leadership.

To learn more about Paul's work, click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE.

To learn more about Paul's podcast, Overdose & Chill, click HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at Relayto? Check out his website at http://relayto.com/.

4 - Hyping Up Idea-Driven Businesses with MicroFame Media's Michael F. Schein

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Founder of MicroFame Media, Michael F. Schein. Michael is the author of the book The Hype Handbook. At MicroFame Media, they have spent years analyzing the methods of history’s most effective persuaders, promoters, and benevolent mischief-makers. They've taken all of this research and distilled their findings into a comprehensive system that lets them generate fanatical attention for your best ideas. Their mission is to hype up their clients, so they can focus on what they do best.

Learn more about Michael's work HERE and HERE.

Check out Michael's book, The Hype Handbook, HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex and his work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

3 - The Future of Digital and Hyrbid Experiences with Logitech's Scott Wharton

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the General Manager of Logitech B2B, Scott Wharton. Logitech B2B is a division that includes all products, software, and services for business and enterprise customers. Scott brought Logitech to a new era of growth, changing the culture to create a scalable business prepared for the future. Logitech entered the video conferencing industry, optimizing the digital experience to be superior to an average meeting.

Learn more about Scott's work HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex and his work at Relayto? Check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

2 - Transform Businesses with Technology with Tata Consultancy Services' Abhinav Kumar

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Your host, Alex Shevelenko, talks with the Chief Marketing and Communications Officer of Tata Consultancy Services, Abhinav Kumar. Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting, and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world’s largest businesses for the past 50 years. They believe innovation and collective knowledge can transform all our futures with greater purpose. At TCS, they go beyond helping businesses transform through technology.

To learn more about Abhinav's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Alex's work at RELAYTO, check out his website at https://relayto.com/.

1 - Innovative Customer Experiences are What Differentiate Business Leaders with RELAYTO's Alex Shevelenko

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0400

In the first episode of Experience-Focused Leaders, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks to the creator and host of the show, Alex Shevelenko. Alex is the CEO and founder of RELAYTO. Alex shares what makes business leaders stand-out, no matter their industry; creating cutting-edge experiences for their customers. He also discusses how his business, RELAYTO, creates experiences using various game-changing tools, new technologies, and innovative designs. You can't force leads to buy from you - but you can compel them to want to know more about what you do by providing a stellar customer experience.

Alex shares the types of guests he's looking to spotlight on his podcast. If you are a seasoned business owner with a profound understanding of the significance of customer experience in driving business growth, we invite you to join us as a guest on our podcast. Share your unique insights, success stories, and the strategies that have set you apart in your industry.

Want to know more about Alex's work at RELAYTO? Check out their website HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.