The Grow Fast Podcast

Navigating Startup Success with Strategic Product Development with David Hirschfeld, CEO of Tekyz

In this episode of the Grow Fast podcast, host Mark Shriner interviews David Hirschfeld, Founder and CEO of Tekyz, a software development firm with extensive experience working with startups. Hirschfeld shares insights from his 35-year career in software development, emphasizing the importance of building exceptional development teams and helping companies scale effectively. He discusses his philosophy of hiring extremely smart, experienced professionals who can think critically and contribute meaningfully to a project.
The conversation centers on Hirschfeld's "Launch First" methodology, a strategic approach to product development that prioritizes understanding market needs before building a minimum viable product (MVP). Instead of immediately investing $50,000-$150,000 in an MVP, he recommends creating a high-fidelity prototype for $10-$25,000, conducting thorough market research, and identifying early adopters. This approach allows companies to validate product-market fit by securing pre-launch sales and generating revenue to fund further development.
Hirschfeld illustrates his approach with a case study of a healthcare AI startup that pivoted from monitoring wearable devices to creating an AI nurse capable of managing patient transitions and providing personalized healthcare communication. He also discusses the rapidly evolving AI landscape, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Throughout the podcast, Hirschfeld stresses key principles for fast business growth: hire smart people, test everything, document successful processes, and remain flexible in product development.
Tekyz Corp
https://tekyz.com/
 
Scaling Smarter Podcast
https://tekyz.com/podcast/
 
 

How Investors Evaluate a Company’s Sales with Kevin Dominik Korte

This episode of The Grow Fast Podcast features Kevin Dominik Korte, a Board Member and IT Innovation & Growth Strategist with expertise in digital transformation, identity management, and open-source IT infrastructure. With over 50 startup investments—several reaching IPO stages—Kevin shares insights on how investors evaluate go-to-market strategy, sales effectiveness, and scalability. Kevin emphasizes the importance of early sales traction, advising startups to focus on building a niche customer base rather than chasing a broad market. Drawing from his experience in strategy formulation and market expansion, he highlights how industry mastery fosters organic referrals and investor confidence. 
He also explores the blending of sales and marketing, noting that personalized outreach—such as cold calling and targeted LinkedIn engagement—often outperforms broad marketing campaigns. Additionally, he stresses the importance of recurring revenue, churn rates, and customer engagement in assessing business viability. Kevin shares lessons from his career, including his success in establishing Univention’s first overseas subsidiary and positioning it as a leader in IT governance and identity management. Currently an Advisory Board Member to Moxey and a mentor to startups at NewChip, he closes with practical advice for founders, recommending public speaking training and Crossing the Chasm to refine their sales approach and scale effectively. 
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Kevin Dominik here:  
Youtube 
Kevin Dominik Korte
www.korte.co  
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you buy Breeze Docs, the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for SMBs to respond to RFPs. 
Breeze Docs 
https://www.breezedocs.ai/  

How to Use LinkedIn to Boost Sales

This episode of the Grow Fast Podcast featuring Joshua Stout, LinkedIn Certified Marketing Expert™ and Director of Advertising at Influent, focused on leveraging LinkedIn for B2B marketing success. Joshua shared his journey of scaling an agency and developing expertise in LinkedIn advertising, highlighting how businesses can effectively use the platform to generate demand, build trust, and drive conversions. He explained the key differences between demand capture (Google Ads) and demand generation (LinkedIn Ads), emphasizing the importance of a multi-channel strategy to nurture leads and optimize ad performance. Joshua also discussed the role of branding and content marketing in LinkedIn campaigns, stressing that businesses should invest in long-term brand awareness before expecting immediate returns on ad spend. 
Another key topic was the strategic approach to LinkedIn advertising and content optimization. Joshua provided insights into setting up a full-funnel ad strategy, including top-of-funnel brand awareness, middle-of-funnel engagement, and bottom-of-funnel conversion campaigns. He shared best practices for A/B testing, targeting decision-makers, and utilizing LinkedIn’s advanced professional filters to reach the right audience. Additionally, Joshua explored how AI is transforming digital marketing, from automating audits and strategy planning to enhancing ad targeting with data-driven insights. The conversation wrapped up with advice on building a strong LinkedIn presence, balancing thought leadership with personal branding, and leveraging both organic content and paid ads to establish credibility and drive business growth. 
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Joshua Stout here:  
Youtube 
Influent 
http://influent.nyc
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you buy Breeze Docs, the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for SMBs to respond to RFPs. 
Breeze Docs 
https://www.breezedocs.ai/  

Using Transparency to Sell More

This episode of the Grow Fast Podcast featuring Todd Caponi, an award-winning sales leader and author of The Transparency Sale and The Transparent Sales Leader, explored the evolving principles of sales and the critical role of transparency in fostering trust and long-term success. Todd, whose expertise spans sales methodology, learning theory, and decision science, shared insights from his research on sales history, emphasizing that while technology and tools have advanced, the core principles of sales—focused on service and guiding buyers—have remained consistent over centuries. He discussed how the overwhelming availability of information has made the buying process harder for customers and how sales professionals can embrace transparency to guide them more effectively. Todd introduced the concept of "flawesome" salesmanship, where companies openly acknowledge their imperfections, fostering trust and accelerating decision-making. With a track record that includes helping a technology company achieve a successful IPO and a $3B exit, as well as winning the American Business "Stevie" Award for VP of Worldwide Sales of the Year, Todd's insights are grounded in proven success.
Another major topic was Todd's "5F Framework" for revenue leadership, which emphasizes focus, field, fundamentals, forecasting, and fun. He explained how this structure helps sales leaders plan effectively, maintain consistency, and optimize team performance. Todd also shared examples from his workshops and leadership programs, designed to equip teams with actionable tools for improving communication, qualification, and negotiation. The discussion wrapped up with a look at how technology, including AI, can enhance sales processes when used through the lens of service rather than scale, encouraging sales professionals to prioritize genuine connections over automation.
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Todd Caponi here:  
Youtube 
TODD CAPONI 
www.toddcaponi.com  
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you buy Breeze Docs, the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for SMBs to respond to RFPs. 
Breeze Docs 
https://www.breezedocs.ai/  

Maximizing Online Ad Spend

This episode of the Grow Fast Podcast featuring Ralph Burns, the Founder & CEO of Tier 11, the world’s leading client-centric digital marketing agency, author of Virtual Boss: A Practical Guide for Masterfully Leading and Managing Remote Teams, and a sought-after speaker and authority in the marketing and business community, also co-host of the Perpetual Traffic Podcast, delved into innovative strategies for maximizing digital marketing impact. Ralph introduced the "conversion engine," a comprehensive framework integrating traffic, creative strategies, and post-click optimization, all seamlessly linked by a robust data system to ensure near-perfect ad visibility. He discussed the alarming statistic that 76% of digital ad budgets are wasted and explained how Tier 11's data-driven methods help businesses eliminate inefficiencies and achieve scalable success. Ralph underscored the critical role of new customer acquisition (NCAC) as a key performance metric, cautioning against over-reliance on recycled warm traffic, which many agencies prioritize at the expense of growth. 
Another major focus was the adoption of cutting-edge tools and technologies to counteract challenges posed by evolving privacy laws and data restrictions. Ralph highlighted the BlotOut platform, an edge server technology that captures user behavior and builds first-party data pools to fill gaps left by cookie blockers and privacy compliance. He shared compelling success stories of clients who achieved significant growth through optimized campaigns and reduced ad costs using such innovations. The discussion concluded with insights into Tier 11's unique long-form content strategy, which leverages podcasts and videos to deliver value, build trust, and create meaningful connections with their ideal customer profile (ICP), ultimately driving long-term business relationships and sustained growth. 
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Ralph Burns here:  
Youtube
https://youtu.be/cwIehoe-zbQ Tier Eleven 
www.tiereleven.com  
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you by Breeze, the fastest, easiest, and lowest-cost way to process RFPs, RFIs, security questionnaires, and other important documents. 
Breeze 
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Building High Trust Sales Teams

This episode of the Grow Fast Podcast featuring Amy Evans, Fractional CRO and Host of the Women in Sales Leadership Podcast, primarily focused on the importance of building high-trust teams and fostering motivation within sales organizations. Amy shared her leadership journey, highlighting how vulnerability and genuine connections with team members are critical for creating a supportive and high-performing environment. She emphasized the value of trust-building exercises, like life story mapping, to develop deeper relationships among team members and encourage collaboration. Amy also shared her transition into leadership roles, detailing the lessons she learned, such as setting boundaries and earning respect, while navigating the challenges of managing peers as a leader. 
Another key topic was the significance of empowering teams and fostering a sense of ownership. Amy discussed how she involved her team in decision-making processes to generate innovative ideas and train future leaders. She also emphasized the importance of encouraging individual motivation and celebrating small wins, such as securing key meetings, to maintain morale and drive progress. Additionally, Amy shared insights into her fractional CRO role, explaining how she collaborates with multiple organizations to design actionable go-to-market strategies, ensuring scalability and credibility with both customers and investors. Her approach highlights the importance of balancing strategic leadership with the flexibility to adapt to diverse organizational needs. 
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Amy Evans here:  
Youtube 
https://youtu.be/llYzAuGdLlg
Market Intent 
www.marketintent.ai  
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you by Breeze, the fastest, easiest, and lowest-cost way to process RFPs, RFIs, security questionnaires, and other important documents. 
Breeze 
https://www.breezedocs.ai/ 

Online Marketing in South Korea

This episode of The Grow Fast Podcast featuring Hyein Yoon, Founder of HY Marketing and a globally recognized marketing expert, focused on the unique challenges and strategies for entering the South Korean market. Hyein highlighted the importance of understanding local platforms like Naver, KakaoTalk, and Naver Cafe, which are integral to connecting with Korean audiences. She explained that while global platforms like Instagram and YouTube are also popular, they must be used strategically alongside local tools for effective brand penetration. Hyein emphasized the need for businesses to customize their content for Korean audiences, noting that a direct translation of global marketing strategies often falls short in resonating with local consumers. 
Another key topic was the role of SEO and influencer marketing in launching successful campaigns. Hyein shared examples of international brands entering the Korean market, such as a client transitioning from Costco Taiwan to Costco Korea, and how her team used a 90-day strategy incorporating SEO, influencer partnerships, and localized social media content. She also discussed the cautious but growing adoption of AI in marketing, with tools like ChatGPT and local AI platforms being used to enhance content creation while retaining a human touch. Throughout the conversation, Hyein underscored the importance of patience and adaptability, as success in South Korea requires a nuanced, long-term approach to build trust and engagement with local consumers. 
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Hyein Yoon here: 
‍Youtube
https://youtu.be/2Z1QOcxhu8Y 
HYEIN YOON 
www.hyeinyoon.com  
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you buy Breeze Docs, the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for SMBs to respond to RFPs.
Breeze Docs
https://www.breezedocs.ai/ 

Booking More Demos and Closing More Deals with Mor Assouline of Demo to Close

This episode of the Grow Fast Podcast featuring Mor Assouline, Founder of Demo to Close and a Sales Trainer and Coach for SMB AEs and SaaS companies, primarily focused on the transformative power of effective sales training and coaching. Mor shared insights into his unique approach, emphasizing the importance of "unselling," where sales professionals create healthy friction by questioning prospects’ needs, fostering trust and stronger buyer engagement. He explained how SaaS sales, unlike traditional B2B sales, require a customer-centric approach to reduce churn and ensure long-term value. The discussion also highlighted the value of processes like CRM audits, talk track libraries, and tailored onboarding programs to build efficient and resilient sales teams. 
Another key topic was the importance of building a personal brand and leveraging content to establish credibility in competitive markets. Mor advocated for strategies like engaging with prospects on LinkedIn to build familiarity before cold outreach and creating value through podcasts or other branded content. He also stressed the importance of mental resilience and self-reflection for sales professionals, recommending practices like journaling, visualization, and gratitude to maintain focus and motivation. Mor’s insights reinforced the need for adaptability and personal growth as cornerstones of long-term success in sales. 
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Mor Assouline here: 
‍Youtube
https://youtu.be/7DN22kVu-nc 
Demo to Close 
www.demotoclose.com  
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you buy Breeze Docs, the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for SMBs to respond to RFPs.
Breeze Docs
https://www.breezedocs.ai/ 
 

Optimizing RFP Responses with Caryn Dean of Once Upon an RFP

This episode of the Grow Fast Podcast featuring Caryn Dean, Chief Executive Officer & Founder of Once Upon an RFP, primarily focused on navigating the RFP process and strategies for success in government, commercial, and grant proposals. Caryn discussed the stability that RFP-based contracts bring to businesses, especially those in industries with long sales cycles. She emphasized that, beyond simply answering questions, a winning proposal requires a strong strategy that showcases a company's unique value proposition. Caryn also highlighted how a well-crafted capability statement serves as a resume for the business, differentiating it from generic marketing brochures and helping potential clients quickly assess fit. 
Another central topic was Caryn’s approach to engaging with clients across industries and company sizes, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. She shared her philosophy of adapting the proposal process based on client needs, offering both project-based and long-term consulting support. Caryn also discussed best practices in vendor registration and the importance of aligning proposal content with audience expertise, focusing on clear and accessible language. To close, Caryn provided practical advice for small and medium businesses on vendor registration strategy, resources for RFP sourcing, and techniques to maintain communication with procurement teams throughout the RFP lifecycle. 
You can watch the video of the Grow Fast Podcast with Caryn Dean here: 
‍Youtube 
https://youtu.be/tjLWeMACA-M
Once Upon an RFP
https://onceuponanrfp.com/
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you buy Breeze Docs, the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective way for SMBs to respond to RFPs.
Breeze Docs
https://www.breezedocs.ai/
 
 
 

Capturing Attention and Gaining Trust with Scott Leese

This episode of the Grow Fast Podcast featuring Scott Leese, CEO & Founder of Scott Leese Consulting, a Fractional CRO, GTM Advisor, and sales expert, focused primarily on the challenges of modern sales in a digital landscape where attention and trust have become scarce resources. Scott discussed how the shift away from traditional phone and email outreach has prompted sales professionals to rethink their strategies for connecting with prospects. Building a robust network on LinkedIn, creating engaging content, and leveraging referrals were highlighted as essential practices to maintain visibility and build trust. Scott shared his own approach to networking, emphasizing the importance of consistent engagement and thoughtful outreach to develop meaningful connections. 
Another key theme was the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing sales environment. Scott advised startups and salespeople to hone their Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) and focus on building genuine relationships rather than relying solely on automated tools. He stressed the value of referrals and partnerships as powerful growth channels and encouraged sales professionals to invest in their skills, stay updated on trends, and embrace continuous learning. Scott’s insights underscored the idea that the future of sales lies in a balance of digital acumen, network-building, and resilience in navigating constant change. 
You can find the video version of the episode of the Grow Fast Podcast with Scott Leese here: 
‍Youtube 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwbLq101mIY
 
The Grow Fast Podcast is brought to you by Breeze, the fastest, easiest, and lowest-cost way to process RFPs, RFIs, security questionnaires, and other important documents. 
Breeze 
https://www.breezedocs.ai/