Electrifying Growth
There are moments in a company’s growth journey that are undeniably electric - this show shares those stories. Electrifying Growth is an original show from Edison Partners designed to spark inspiration and accelerate growth from start-up to scale-up.
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The Scoreboard Test: Measuring Effort vs Results
02/04/2026
The Scoreboard Test: Measuring Effort vs Results
Everyone is busy, yet results still fall short. Many leaders mistake motion for progress and only see the gap when numbers miss. In this episode, , Managing Partner at and host of Sit Down with Sugden, shares why effort-based goals mislead teams. Through years of working closely with operators and executives, he explains how leaders should measure what truly drives the P&L. He outlines how to reset goals so effort consistently translates into measurable business results. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to set goals that connect daily work to revenue growth Why every department should be measured on margin impact What signals reveal effort result gaps before numbers miss Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction (02:11) When performance gets confused with effort (04:58) Goals that reward activity instead of outcomes (06:48) How every department can drive revenue (09:30) Bookings success can still miss the P&L (11:10) What leaders should measure instead of hours
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Re-release: Growing Without Losing Sight of Your People with Shane Kim, Baleon Capital
01/21/2026
Re-release: Growing Without Losing Sight of Your People with Shane Kim, Baleon Capital
Can you drive growth without losing sight of the human side of business? This replay episode brings back a standout conversation with Shane Kim, founder of Baleon Capital, who says yes. With over 20 years in growth equity, Shane has built his investment approach around empathy and connection, putting people first. From his early days as an analyst to founding Baleon, he’s focused on fintech and healthcare, navigating market cycles and building strong partnerships. Shane and host Chris Sugden revisit the realities of founding a private equity firm, from building resilient teams to handling high-stakes investments in unpredictable markets. In this episode, you’ll learn: Using empathy as an investment strategy to build trust and strong partnerships Adapting to market cycles, from the dot-com bubble to today’s AI-driven economy Creating long-term value by focusing on collaboration and the people around you Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Shane Kim, founder of Baleon Capital (01:25) Shane Kim’s background and founding Baleon Capital (03:44) From analyst to managing partner at Camden (04:50) Leaving stability to become an entrepreneur (07:18) Building a fund from scratch and why execution matters (09:58) What makes an investment journey truly rewarding (11:04) Starting in 2007 and surviving the financial crisis (12:39) Why bootstrapped founders think differently (13:13) FingerCheck and building founder–board trust (23:06) What makes boards effective (and what breaks them) (30:52) Advice Shane would give his 25-year-old self
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The CFO Guide to Smarter Board Prep
01/07/2026
The CFO Guide to Smarter Board Prep
How often does your board meeting force you to look back instead of ahead? In this episode, , Managing Partner at and host of Sit Down with Sugden, discusses why CEOs and CFOs lose entire weeks to board prep that does not help them plan the future. Drawing from decades on more than 50 boards, he explains how to shift reviews out of the boardroom, streamline materials, and make every meeting more useful for the business. In this episode, you’ll learn: How the 80/20 rule sharpens board materials and saves valuable prep time Why moving financial reviews outside the boardroom leads to better strategic discussions How twice-yearly reviews of board prep improve alignment and overall efficiency Things to listen for:(00:00) Introduction (01:28) How board prep, budgets, and planning collide (02:19) The 80/20 test for every board deck (03:11) Rear view mirror data vs forward-looking insight (04:46) Monthly or quarterly calls to reduce boardroom noise (05:30) How audit committees streamline financial reviews (06:55) Why reviewing prep time improves every meeting (08:46) What the 20 percent of new material should cover (10:29) How to grade your own board meetings (11:19) A simple question every CEO should ask (12:10) Giving CFOs room to reset expectations
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Leading With Purpose When the Pressure's On with Tom Flick, Tom Flick Communications
12/22/2025
Leading With Purpose When the Pressure's On with Tom Flick, Tom Flick Communications
Leading a team through change demands the same instincts as an NFL quarterback: read the field, set direction, and earn the trust needed to move as one. On this episode of Electrifying Growth, Chris Sugden talks with , former NFL quarterback and President of . Tom shares how his experience on the field shaped his views on leadership, especially the importance of clarity when people feel uncertain. He explains why resistance to change is emotional, not logical, how urgency is created through shared purpose, and why influence becomes a leader’s most reliable tool in complex environments. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why emotional buy-in matters more than logic when leading change How trust shapes team behavior in high-pressure environments Why influence keeps teams aligned as conditions shift Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (03:10) From NFL quarterback to leadership advisor (07:59) Talent is not enough, culture wins (09:42) Leadership vs management (14:32) Complacency and the illusion of urgency (20:30) When someone doesn’t want to be on the team (25:55) The quarterback job and winning the day (28:06) Three ways to build real urgency (32:03) The leader’s voice and why words matter (37:53) Culture means care and safety drives performance (42:48) A simple way to measure safety and run better meetings (46:20) What Tom would tell his younger self
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The Sales Wake-Up Call
12/10/2025
The Sales Wake-Up Call
Are you measuring the right metrics to supercharge your sales growth in 2026? In this episode, , Managing Partner at and host of Sit Down with Sugden, breaks down the critical metrics every sales leader needs to track to fuel durable growth, whether you're raising capital, planning for an exit, or gearing up for 2026. From raising quotas without losing top talent to understanding the magic of revenue per FTE, Sugden offers actionable insights that can supercharge your sales efficiency. Learn how to fine-tune your sales and marketing spend, optimize your CAC payback period, and rethink your pricing strategy to drive real results. This episode is packed with data-driven strategies for building a high-growth, capital-efficient sales engine that can thrive in the age of AI. In this episode, you’ll learn: How raising quotas can drive better results, with 26% of top performers surpassing their targets. Why a customer acquisition cost (CAC) payback period under 15 months is critical for sustainable growth. The importance of revenue per FTE, with top companies achieving 2x the revenue compared to their peers. Aligning sales and marketing budgets and fostering collaboration is key to optimizing growth. Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Introduction (00:24) Why sales productivity feels chaotic at year-end (02:20) Higher quotas and what they reveal (03:55) CAC payback as a wake-up call (05:20) Pipeline coverage and go-to-market alignment (06:50) Revenue per FTE in an AI-heavy environment (08:40) What durable growth companies do differently (10:15) The problem with sales and marketing planning in silos (11:50) Pricing, experiments, and avoiding “set it and forget it.” (13:40) Final guidance for 2026 planning and key metrics to watch Edison Partners 2025 Growth Index
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Growth Without Shortcuts with Barry Conlon, Overhaul
11/26/2025
Growth Without Shortcuts with Barry Conlon, Overhaul
What happens when your former company becomes your biggest competitor? On this episode of Electrifying Growth, sits down with , CEO of , for a conversation about building one of the most advanced logistics risk management platforms in the world. Barry shares his journey from founding FreightWatch to acquiring it a decade later, all while navigating the challenges of product-market fit, scaling a capital-efficient team, and earning the trust of the world’s most demanding enterprise customers. From bootstrapping and board-building to executing two significant acquisitions, Barry shares the decisions that helped Overhaul move from a startup to a category leader. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why control and not visibility is the true challenge in supply chain risk How to build a board that pushes you to make better decisions The role of managed services in turning tech into real customer outcomes What it takes to integrate acquisitions without breaking what works Why acting like a startup still matters at scale Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction from Chris Sugden and handoff to Ryan Ziegler (04:25) Lessons from building and selling FreightWatch (07:10) Why Overhaul took a data-agnostic approach (10:45) Building trust with enterprise customers through managed services (13:50) Why high-value, high-risk industries were the beachhead (20:30) The power of knowledge-sharing during a crisis (23:00) Inviting investors into customer conversations (25:45) The role of debt in acquiring Barry’s former company (28:20) Global expansion, tech integration, and defensive strategy (31:15) Managing headcount and customer trust post-acquisition (34:00) Using M&A to expand into new adjacencies like auto (43:20) Why vulnerability is a strength for founders (48:15) Sustainable growth, healthy urgency, and blocking distractions (51:30) Final reflections on what made Overhaul’s journey work
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Healthy Urgency Can’t Be Rushed
11/12/2025
Healthy Urgency Can’t Be Rushed
Healthy urgency can’t be rushed. , Managing Partner at , discusses what it really means to lead with healthy urgency - the balance between moving fast and staying focused. In this episode, he explores why constant pivots and chasing the “next big thing” often do more harm than good, how to separate meaningful feedback from noise, and why sustainable growth starts with discipline, not speed. Chris shares practical ways to build urgency that’s grounded in purpose, avoid the trap of shiny objects, and make confident decisions even when pressure mounts from customers, investors, or your board. If you’ve ever felt torn between acting quickly and staying the course, this conversation lays out a clear, grounded framework for growing with intention, without creating chaos for your team. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why “healthy urgency” is about clarity, not speed How to tell the difference between valuable feedback and distraction The hidden cost of chasing every “if only” customer request Why doing something isn’t always better than doing nothing How to build focus and credibility through consistent execution Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Introduction (00:16) What healthy urgency really means (01:34) Balancing ambition, speed, and focus (03:15) The bright shiny object syndrome (04:30) How customer feedback can create confusion (06:00) When to act and when to pause (08:16) Navigating board and investor pressure (10:07) Avoiding reactionary decisions (12:13) Slowing down to go fast (14:10) Building frameworks for healthy urgency (17:29) Finding mentors and sounding boards for better decision-making
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Build Before You Raise with Krish Chopra, NPHub
10/29/2025
Build Before You Raise with Krish Chopra, NPHub
What happens when an entrepreneur leaves corporate America to tackle a critical healthcare gap? On this episode of Electrifying Growth, Chris Sugden connects with , founder and CEO of , to discuss his 10-year journey from bootstrapping the company to securing a $20 million growth investment. Krish shares how his unique path from corporate America to healthcare entrepreneur led to NPHub’s success, solving one of the most pressing challenges in healthcare: clinical placements for nurse practitioners. He talks about how the company scaled by staying capital-efficient, focusing on customer experience, and building a culture of innovation. In this episode, you’ll learn: The value of bootstrapping and building a business with capital efficiency The role of technology in solving clinical placement challenges Why a $20M investment is accelerating growth while staying true to core values Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:10) Krish’s journey from corporate America to healthcare entrepreneur (04:23) The challenge of solving clinical placement gaps (07:30) Bootstrapping the business for 10 years (11:10) Building a company culture focused on customer outcomes (14:05) The impact of NPHub’s $20M growth investment (17:40) How NPHub is addressing the nurse practitioner shortage (20:30) The role of technology in transforming healthcare education (24:00) Overcoming challenges in B2B and B2C models (28:15) How fast time to value is key to customer success (32:30) Lessons learned from building NPHub and advice for entrepreneurs (37:00) What’s next for NPHub’s growth and impact
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Investing in AI-Powered Automation with Kevin Herr, KnowledgeLake
10/15/2025
Investing in AI-Powered Automation with Kevin Herr, KnowledgeLake
What shifts when a CFO becomes CEO of an enterprise SaaS company focused on automation and AI? On this episode of Electrifying Growth, Chris Sugden sits down with , CEO of , following Edison Partners’ recent $65 million investment. Kevin shares how his journey from founder to financial leader to chief executive is shaping the company’s strategy as it scales. With a focus on value creation, Kevin discusses how KnowledgeLake is delivering measurable ROI through AI-powered document processing and what it takes to build durable growth from the inside out. He also breaks down the leadership bets he's making, how the team is aligning around customer outcomes, and why a fast time to value remains core to the company’s mission. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why pricing strategy needs to evolve past cost-plus How AI is unlocking new use cases for document automation What drives a 10x return on automation in enterprise environments Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (02:20) From CFO and COO to CEO (04:14) Lessons from starting a business with family (05:23) Financial skills that strengthen a CEO’s playbook (06:38) Rethinking pricing to capture customer value (09:28) KnowledgeLake’s journey from services to software (11:59) What smart document processing means (14:07) How cloud and AI reshape automation (17:43) Customer expectations for AI in enterprise deals (20:38) Proving ROI with fast time to value (27:06) Leading with urgency while scaling teams
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Healthy Urgency Starts with the CEO
10/01/2025
Healthy Urgency Starts with the CEO
Is your company scaling or just sprinting? , Managing Partner at , explains the concept of “healthy urgency” and why it's a defining trait in high-growth leadership. In this episode, he reflects on lessons from Edison’s recent CEO Summit and outlines how urgency can either drive disciplined execution or spiral into chaos when left unchecked. He shares the patterns he sees as companies move from startup pace to scale-up maturity, and the key distinctions between founder energy and operational excellence. If you’re a CEO wondering whether your team is following your lead or just chasing chaos, Chris offers a clear lens into what sustainable leadership looks like as you grow your company. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why urgency without clarity erodes culture How to recognize when pace is outpacing impact The leadership behaviors that build trust across teams Why every CEO needs to know when to speed up and when to back off Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (00:51) What defines healthy vs. unhealthy urgency (01:45) Why urgency peaks at $20M revenue(02:29) The danger of being “double-parked”(03:11) How chaos spreads across your org(03:59) Founder pace vs. professional CEO structure(05:37) Trusting the process when growth slows(06:24) Planning cycles and the power of consistency
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Re-release: Even Tiger Had a Coach with Steve Schloss
09/17/2025
Re-release: Even Tiger Had a Coach with Steve Schloss
This re-release of Electrifying Growth features host Chris Sugden from Edison Partners in a conversation with Steve Schloss, Founder of ListenForward & Edison Operating Partner. Steve’s unique career path spans Fortune 500s, startups, and nonprofits, all unified by a core focus: how leaders show up and build teams that scale. With experience at Citibank, Time Inc., LivePerson, and USGA, Steve brings a rare blend of left-brain operations and right-brain people strategy. He shares what separates functional teams from transformational ones, the real value of listening as a leadership skill, and why CEOs must evolve from experts to system-level thinkers if they want to grow. In this episode, you’ll learn: What most leaders miss when designing executive teams for scale Why listening is the most underleveraged leadership capability How values, mission, and culture need to evolve as your business does What effective coaching really looks like and why it isn’t therapy Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Steve Schloss and his career across industries (02:16) From HR at LivePerson to transformation at USGA (10:08) What “you get the team you deserve” really means (13:58) How leaders can relaunch culture with real alignment (20:22) Coaching vs. therapy and the mindset required for growth (24:56) What leaders get wrong about development and accountability Resources: Connect with Steve on LinkedIn:
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Preparing for a Transaction
09/03/2025
Preparing for a Transaction
Thinking about bringing in a private equity partner? , Managing Partner at , zooms in on the critical decisions founders face when considering a private equity deal. In this episode, he highlights the importance of building relationships with investors, understanding the difference between growth equity and traditional private equity, and knowing when it’s time to bring in outside capital. If you’re contemplating whether to sell your business or continue scaling, Chris walks through how to engage with PE firms, the red flags to look out for, and how to prepare for post-deal success. In this episode, you’ll learn: How PE firms evaluate founders during early conversations The power of building relationships with investors before hiring a banker Why some executives who got you here can’t take you further How to shift from founder mindset to commercial mindset Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Introduction (01:38) What Edison looks for in founder CEOs (03:31) The challenge of leveling up your team (05:33) How to map your five-year goals (07:44) Understanding the shift to a commercial mindset (08:59) The importance of feedback before hiring a banker (20:42) Growth vs profitability: which thesis to follow?
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You’re Never Wrong, You’re Just Late with Mitch Caplan, Yieldstreet
08/20/2025
You’re Never Wrong, You’re Just Late with Mitch Caplan, Yieldstreet
What does it really take to lead through uncertain times while growing with focus and vision? On this episode of Electrifying Growth, Chris Sugden is joined by , a fintech pioneer whose career includes CEO roles at E-Trade and Jefferson National, as well as leadership at Telebank and . With three decades of financial services experience, Mitch brings a rare perspective on building durable businesses across multiple market cycles. He reflects on founding the first branchless bank, scaling through crises, selling to E-Trade, and stepping in to stabilize Yieldstreet as interim CEO. Mitch explains what founders often miss about timing, distribution, and customer trust, and how private markets are being reshaped in real time. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Mitch turned Telebank into the first internet bank Why valuation isn’t the end goal for building lasting companies What fintech founders should know about navigating downturns and rebounds Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (04:32) Buying a bank during the RTC collapse (07:15) Building the first internet-only financial institution (09:10) Selling to E-Trade over sushi (13:06) Cutting a billion dollars in costs (17:47) Creating the original E-Trade baby spokesperson campaign (22:40) Lessons from four major financial crises (30:13) Why private markets are the next wave (34:54) Distribution vs. manufacturing in fintech today (42:10) Boardroom best practices for startup CEOs (47:47) The advice that changed Mitch’s career
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Before You Sign: What PE Sees that Founders Miss
08/06/2025
Before You Sign: What PE Sees that Founders Miss
, Managing Partner at , shares what really happens when a founder sells to private equity. Drawing on over 20 years of experience and Edison’s approach to backing scale-ready leaders, he walks through what signals a founder is fit to stay in the CEO seat – and what doesn’t. This episode maps the most common red flags investors spot, the traits they value in high-performing operators, and the decisions that quietly define post-deal success. From talent upgrades to price increases, Chris shares what founders need to think through before raising their hand. If you’re asking whether now’s the time to sell or stay, this episode will help you get clear. In this episode, you’ll learn: How PE firms evaluate founders during early conversations What happens when commercial mindset overtakes founder instinct Why some execs who got you here can’t take you further How to know if you’re scaling or exiting What to ask before taking outside capital Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:38) What Edison looks for in founder CEOs (03:31) The challenge of leveling up your team (05:33) How to map your five-year goals (07:44) Understanding the shift to a commercial mindset (08:59) Why your answer to this question will predict your role (14:58) Red flags that change the deal (20:42) Top grading and the Larry Ellison approach
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The Power of Influence Over Authority with Ray Lane, GreatPoint Ventures
07/23/2025
The Power of Influence Over Authority with Ray Lane, GreatPoint Ventures
Ever wonder what separates a good leader from a great one, especially when it comes to scaling companies with purpose and people in mind? In this episode of Electrifying Growth, Chris Sugden sits down with , former President and COO of Oracle, longtime board member at Carnegie Mellon, and a partner at venture firm . With experience at IBM, Oracle, and Kleiner Perkins, Ray’s diverse background offers a unique perspective on business growth and leadership. Ray shares lessons from his blue-collar roots, time in the army, and working with legends like Ross Perot and Larry Ellison. Ray discusses how influence drives results, why venture capital needs more than just funding, and the key to making career-defining decisions. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Ray Lane’s early values and career path shaped his leadership style and approach to growth Why influence, adaptability, and listening are critical to scaling a business What it takes to be a hands-on, service-minded growth equity partner Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction and early career (03:01) Lessons from McKeesport (03:20) Impact of mentor and values (07:55) Joining the army and IBM (11:47) Path to EDS and Ross Perot (17:51) Journey at Oracle and Larry Ellison (37:23) Transition to Booz Allen Hamilton and Kleiner Perkins (36:38) Venture capital and Great Point Ventures (40:41) Reflections on career and advice (44:02) Golf at Oakmont and closing remarks
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The Shift From 'Growth At All Costs' To Profit
07/09/2025
The Shift From 'Growth At All Costs' To Profit
, Managing Partner at , discusses the mindset shift from growth at all costs to profitable expansion. Drawing from real-time boardroom conversations and Edison’s data, Chris explains how founders are navigating the new cost of capital and adjusting strategies to stay in control. From pricing models to retention metrics, he walks through what defines a durable business in today’s market and why chasing scale without margin is no longer rewarded. If you’re wondering how to measure success when funding slows, this episode brings clarity. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why capital efficiency is now a competitive advantage What the shift from free money taught high-growth founders How to assess net and gross retention the right way Why timing matters more when you’re not forced to transact What makes your company attractive before you ever sell Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:04) The trade-off in high-cost markets (01:52) Shifting from growth to profit (03:28) Durable growth as the new goal (04:19) What scale really looks like (05:51) Rethinking working capital leverage (06:40) Why retention metrics matter (08:20) Own your growth timeline
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A Vision for Economic Empowerment in America with John Hope Bryant, Operation Hope
06/25/2025
A Vision for Economic Empowerment in America with John Hope Bryant, Operation Hope
, Chairman, and CEO of , brings a powerful vision to Electrifying Growth, shaped by years of championing financial literacy and economic inclusion in America. Recognized by leaders across the nation, John understands the challenges at both the grassroots and boardroom levels that influence opportunity. The conversation highlights America's unique position in the world, emphasizing that diversity is its greatest strength and the challenges it faces from global competitors. John presents his “Business Plan for America,” a blueprint to empower underserved communities, create lasting wealth, and turn hope into action. He addresses the effects of tariffs, demographic changes, and the urgent need for financial literacy in every community. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why economic opportunity is the next civil rights frontier How diversity fuels America’s GDP and global influence The business case for financial literacy and mentorship Where tariffs fit into the current political and economic moment Tangible ways leaders can help close the financial inclusion gap Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (03:01) America at a crossroads and collective decisions (05:26) China’s economic contradictions and internal unrest (09:10) America’s resilience as the global wealth hub (11:24) Civil rights evolution and growing opportunities (16:46) Transforming hope into economic participation for all (21:26) Reframing DEI and measuring results over rhetoric (23:53) Immigrants as key players in entrepreneurship (29:34) Tariffs explained and their effect on consumers (32:28) Reshoring manufacturing and the need for planning (40:53) How business leaders can drive financial literacy (43:38) Education mentorship and the value of exchange Resources:
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Pricing Smarter For Higher Valuations
06/11/2025
Pricing Smarter For Higher Valuations
, Managing Partner at , shares a clear message for growth-stage CEOs in 2025: focus on what you can control, and build for durability. In this solo episode, Chris breaks down insights from Edison’s annual meeting and latest to explain why sustainable, cash-efficient businesses are outperforming those chasing headline valuations. From managing investor expectations to rethinking working capital strategy, Chris outlines what separates top performers from the rest, and why free cash flow and capital discipline are now at the heart of lasting success. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why durable growth matters more than hypergrowth in today’s market What investors look for beyond the rule of 40 How working capital efficiency can boost your company’s valuation What mistakes SaaS leaders are still making with profitability metrics How to create long-term value by charging smarter and planning better Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (00:59) How media impacts market confidence (02:25) Focus on what you can control (03:19) What durable growth really looks like (04:58) Using the Growth Index to benchmark success (06:47) Common cash flow mistakes in SaaS (08:31) The truth behind adjusted EBITDA metrics (10:14) Pricing strategies that boost long-term valuation
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Why a Focused Strategy Outperforms Early Capital with Cam Doody, Brickyard
05/28/2025
Why a Focused Strategy Outperforms Early Capital with Cam Doody, Brickyard
, co-founder of , has built his career by focusing on grit and strategic thinking. His path began with Bellhop, a service that redefined moving, and later evolved into Brickyard, a venture studio dedicated to supporting real builders. Brickyard’s model stands apart from most early-stage firms, emphasizing focus, commitment, and the hard work needed to scale sustainably. Cam talks about his experience navigating Bellhop’s exit to private equity and how Brickyard is designed to help founders block out distractions and stay committed to what matters. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Brickyard’s approach centers on focus and commitment Why Bellhop’s evolution included key pivots and challenges What makes Brickyard’s model stand out in a crowded space Why product-market fit is the essential baseline for scaling How Cam stays driven by the thrill of early-stage startups Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (02:35) Overcoming early obstacles and asset-light strategy (07:02) Private equity sales and pandemic timing (09:04) Brickyard’s investment model in Chattanooga (11:20) Fostering an all-in founder culture (13:57) Product-market fit as a first critical milestone (15:44) Cam’s drive for building at the zero to one stage (20:40) Prioritizing founder grit over vanity metrics (26:15) Cam’s take on Bitcoin and venture capital (33:20) Connecting AI and Bitcoin’s impact on the future (36:58) US economy, AI changes, and manufacturing
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The Brand Called YOU—Founder Edition with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
05/14/2025
The Brand Called YOU—Founder Edition with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
Personal brand building isn’t just for influencers. It’s a reality every founder faces, whether they like it or not. In this episode, Chris Sugden, Managing Partner at Edison Partners, unpacks the relationship between personal branding and company growth. Chris explores what it really means for founders to have a “brand,” how it can either support or stunt a business, and why ego often becomes a silent threat as companies scale. He reflects on common signals investors pick up during early conversations and how those signals influence future funding decisions. He also looks at what separates truly effective leaders from those who struggle to evolve with their companies. In this episode, you’ll learn: How personal branding can help or hurt business growth Why investors look for “we” language instead of “me” When founders should hire leaders better than themselves The risk of mistaking personal success for company success Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:20) The rise of the brand called you (03:34) When personal brand gets in the way of scale (05:42) Spotting ego in leadership communication (08:12) Why investors focus on team over founder (11:23) Hiring leaders who outperform the founder (14:55) Letting your team build their own brand
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Becoming a Category Leader by Staying the Course with Dee Choubey, MoneyLion
04/30/2025
Becoming a Category Leader by Staying the Course with Dee Choubey, MoneyLion
, Founder and CEO of , has spent the last 12 years building one of fintech’s most recognizable platforms. But his path wasn’t linear. It was shaped by market shifts, strategic pivots, and a deep commitment to using technology to empower everyday consumers. What started as a fintech lender became a multi-product platform, offering everything from banking and investing to education and credit. Along the way, Dee led MoneyLion through the highs of going public, the lows of market skepticism, and ultimately, a billion-dollar acquisition by Gen Digital. Now, he shares how the deal came to life, why it made sense, and what it takes to lead through uncertainty without losing your edge. In this episode, you’ll learn: How a casual commercial convo led to acquisition talks What made the CVR deal structure so unconventional Why financial wellness and cybersecurity are more connected than ever The hardest leadership lessons from a decade of pivots How AI is changing fintech strategy and talent decisions Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:55) How the Gen Digital acquisition came together (04:16) Why the CVR structure stood out strategically (07:04) When early partnership talks became something more (10:09) Gen’s retention strength and synergy with MoneyLion (12:12) Navigating twelve years of fintech market cycles (14:12) Pivots, pressure, and keeping the team aligned (20:04) Leadership growth and building the right culture (28:18) AI’s impact on products and cost structure (34:10) Market shifts, optimism, and Dee’s economic outlook
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Are You Raising Money to Spend or to Invest?
04/16/2025
Are You Raising Money to Spend or to Invest?
Raising capital isn’t always the win it seems. In this episode, Chris Sugden, Managing Partner at Edison Partners, challenges the belief that funding fuels innovation. He explores how too much capital can create inefficiencies, dilute focus, and lead to valuation-driven decision-making that hurts more than it helps. Chris shares insights from decades of investing in bootstrapped and capital-efficient companies, highlighting the benefits of constraint, clear ROI, and founder discipline. If you’ve ever wondered whether more money really means more progress, this episode will make you think twice. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why more capital doesn’t always lead to better outcomes How bootstrapped businesses outperform through focus and discipline The hidden costs of headcount growth and managerial bloat When spending becomes waste - and how to measure real ROI Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:02) Bootstrapped growth and Edison’s investment approach (03:03) Rethinking the Silicon Valley startup playbook (05:32) How excess capital leads to operational inefficiency (08:07) When headcount growth hides real performance issues (10:19) The dangers of ego and valuation-driven identity (12:49) Why founders need mentorship and honest feedback
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The Power of Mentorship, Risk-Taking, and Resilience with Amy Kadomatsu
04/02/2025
The Power of Mentorship, Risk-Taking, and Resilience with Amy Kadomatsu
This re-release of Electrifying Growth brings back an essential conversation with host (at) Chris Sugden from Edison Partners and (at) Amy Kadomatsu, Former CEO and Board Member of Comply, a leader in regulatory technology (RegTech) helping firms navigate compliance with confidence. Amy’s career journey is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and transformation. From investment banking to entrepreneurship, she has built and scaled businesses at the intersection of finance and technology. Now at the helm of Comply, she shares candid insights on leadership in private equity-backed companies, fostering mentorship, and the grit it takes to succeed in high-growth environments. In this episode, you’ll learn: The pivotal moments that shaped Amy’s career, from Harvard to the startup world How to identify and cultivate valuable mentorship relationships The unique challenges and expectations of leading a private equity-backed company What it really means to have "grit" and why it’s a key ingredient for success Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Amy Kadomatsu and her journey to Comply (02:42) The early career lessons that shaped her leadership style (10:00) Understanding mentorship beyond the transactional approach (20:08) The dynamics of private equity-backed leadership (30:00) Advice for future CEOs and entrepreneurs Resources: Connect with Amy on LinkedIn:
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What (Almost) Every CEO Gets Wrong About Boards with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
03/19/2025
What (Almost) Every CEO Gets Wrong About Boards with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
A well-structured board can be a game-changer for CEOs, but too often, it’s an underutilized resource. In this episode, Chris Sugden, Managing Partner at Edison Partners, challenges the conventional thinking around boards and shares how CEOs can turn them into a strategic advantage. Chris breaks down why independent directors often provide more value than investor-heavy boards, how to avoid the common pitfall of “board amnesia,” and why ongoing engagement beyond quarterly meetings is critical. He also discusses the role of lead directors and chairpersons, highlighting how they can drive accountability and alignment. Plus, he explores the fine line between mentorship and coaching—helping CEOs find the right kind of support to navigate growth and leadership challenges. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why independent directors bring more strategic value than investors The importance of continuous board engagement beyond meetings How a lead director or chairperson can strengthen governance When executive sessions should be used—and when they shouldn’t Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (02:00) The role of boards in startup and growth-stage companies (05:00) Why independent directors matter more than investors (08:00) The strategic value of a well-structured board (11:00) Avoiding board amnesia and fostering ongoing engagement (14:00) The lead director’s role in driving alignment and accountability (17:00) How to use executive sessions effectively (20:00) Coaching vs. mentorship: what CEOs need from their board (23:00) Handling board conflicts and misaligned investors (25:00) Building a high-impact board
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Balancing Mission, Impact, and Commercial Success with Steven Raucher, RapidDeploy
03/05/2025
Balancing Mission, Impact, and Commercial Success with Steven Raucher, RapidDeploy
Steven Raucher, CEO and Founder of RapidDeploy, knows what it takes to build, scale, and successfully exit a company. But his journey wasn’t just about financial success, it was about impact, resilience, and staying true to the mission. 8 years ago, Steven set out to transform public safety technology, determined to make emergency response faster and more effective. He faced the brutal realities of scaling a startup, learned hard lessons about funding, and navigated the pressures of leading a high-growth company. Now, with RapidDeploy acquired by a strategic buyer, he reflects on the journey: what worked, what didn’t, and what founders need to know about building something that lasts. In this episode, you’ll learn: The long game: how Steven identified his ideal acquirer years in advance Why mission and market fit are just as important as technology The mistakes most founders make when scaling and fundraising How to transition from founder-led sales to a repeatable growth engine The role of a strong board in making the right strategic moves Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:30) The acquisition and keeping the entire team intact (05:00) How Steven predicted this buyer years in advance (09:00) Balancing mission, impact, and commercial success together (14:30) Early mistakes, fundraising lessons, and startup realities (21:00) Scaling beyond founder-led sales and operational bottlenecks (28:30) How a strong board shaped strategy and execution (34:00) Leadership, resilience, and what’s coming next for Steven
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Fixing What’s Broken and Building What’s Next with Lorne Brown, Lenora Health
02/19/2025
Fixing What’s Broken and Building What’s Next with Lorne Brown, Lenora Health
Lorne Brown, Edison Director Network Member and Founder of Lenora Health, has built and sold companies, created markets, and now he’s tackling one of the biggest problems in the U.S.—corporate healthcare. A longtime entrepreneur, Lorne founded Operative, a leading digital advertising platform, before selling it to private equity and launching Front Stage Ventures, a venture studio designed to scale new businesses through a unique “strategic insertion” model. Now, he’s applying that playbook to Lenora Health, his latest startup focused on helping companies regain control of their healthcare spending. In this episode, you’ll learn: The right way to define and win a market How to fix a broken system (whether in advertising or healthcare) The power of thinking like an investor and operator at the same time Lessons learned from selling a company, stepping down as CEO, and stepping back in Why paying it forward is Lorne’s personal mission This conversation is a masterclass in market-making, leadership, and the mindset it takes to turn inefficiency into opportunity Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (02:00) The 20-year relationship between Lorne and Edison Partners (06:30) How a failed job hunt led to entrepreneurship (12:00) The early days of digital advertising and building Operative (18:00) Selling the company, stepping back in, and doing it again (25:00) Why nobody really owns healthcare inside a company (30:00) Lenora Health’s model for driving accountability in corporate healthcare (40:00) What every entrepreneur should know about focus and leadership
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Re-release: Embracing Innovation and Doing Good with Megan Glover, 120Water
02/05/2025
Re-release: Embracing Innovation and Doing Good with Megan Glover, 120Water
This re-release of Electrifying Growth brings back an essential conversation with host Chris Sugden from Edison Partners and Megan Glover, co-founder and CEO of 120Water, a trailblazing platform tackling water quality and compliance issues across the U.S. Originally launched in 2016, 120Water started with a simple idea: direct-to-consumer water testing kits to empower households. Under Megan's leadership, the company evolved into a category-leading platform that supports municipalities and organizations with cutting-edge tools to manage drinking water safety and regulatory compliance. In this episode, you’ll learn: The "aha" moment that inspired Megan to leave her corporate career and launch 120Water The complexities of modern water quality challenges, including lead, PFAS, and aging infrastructure How she balances building a socially impactful business with achieving profitability Lessons learned from navigating a male-dominated industry and scaling a mission-driven company Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Meet Megan Glover and 120Water (02:42) The origin story: Why Megan left her job to pursue her vision (05:00) Water quality issues you need to know about today (10:00) The intersection of mission and business in 120Water’s journey (20:08) Megan’s perspective on leadership and overcoming challenges Resources: Connect with Megan on LinkedIn:
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Balancing Growth and Profitability with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
01/22/2025
Balancing Growth and Profitability with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
2025 is here, and with it comes a mix of cautious optimism and strategic challenges for entrepreneurs and business leaders. In this solo episode, Chris Sugden, Managing Partner at Edison Partners, dives into his perspectives on the evolving business landscape, offering actionable advice for the year ahead. Chris explores the renewed optimism in sectors like FinTech, spurred by regulatory shifts and AI advancements, while highlighting areas requiring careful navigation, such as healthcare IT. He also shares his views on the Rule of 40 as a benchmark for sustainable growth and offers advice on balancing growth with profitability. Whether you’re an entrepreneur planning to fundraise, a business leader aiming to scale sustainably, or just curious about market trends, this episode delivers practical takeaways for thriving in 2025. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to leverage cautious optimism to make smarter business decisions Why the Rule of 40 matters and how it applies to private companies The importance of balancing growth and profitability in a shifting market Practical tips for managing expectations and planning a successful fundraising year Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (02:00) The outlook for 2025: cautious optimism and headwinds (05:30) Sector insights: FinTech resurgence and healthcare IT caution (08:45) The Rule of 40 and sustainable growth strategies (12:30) Fundraising tips for entrepreneurs in the current market (16:00) Balancing optimism with strategic execution
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Building Scalable Go-to-Market Strategies with Jim Dicso and Patrick O’Keefe
01/08/2025
Building Scalable Go-to-Market Strategies with Jim Dicso and Patrick O’Keefe
In this episode, Chris Sugden, Managing Partner at Edison Partners, is joined by Jim Dicso, Founder and Managing Partner at Shoreline SAAS Advisory, and Patrick O’Keefe, Founder at Moher Advisory, to share their wisdom on transforming sales into a structured and scalable process. Together, they share their wisdom on how founders and early sales teams can build scalable go-to-market strategies without losing sight of relationships and creativity. Jim and Patrick have a similar thread in their journeys: they have turned their businesses from a founder-driven model to an engineered machine. They agree there are three foundational boxes a leader should check when trying to scale their organization: Strong sales culture Effective process development Tools like playbooks and frameworks such as MEDIC (to create predictability and efficiency in go-to-market strategies) In this episode, you’ll learn: Why early-stage sales teams often mirror the founder’s personality, and how to evolve this dynamic for scale How to balance the art of relationship-building with the science of process-driven sales How mapping the customer journey impacts growth and retention Practical ways to align pipeline hygiene with company goals and avoid misallocating resources Why a focus on relationship-building and active listening is more vital than ever in the era of technology-first communication Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (02:00) Unexpected career paths into sales leadership (06:00) Evolving from a founder-led sales model (13:00) The role of CRM and stage-gating in pipeline management (24:00) Building scalable playbooks for consistent wins (36:00) The importance of prioritizing customer success
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Building for the Long Run with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
12/18/2024
Building for the Long Run with Chris Sugden, Edison Partners
Booms, busts, and the “messy middle” - Chris has seen it all. In this solo episode, host Chris Sugden, Managing Partner at Edison Partners, shares his journey of over 25 years from auditor to operator to investor. His operator-first approach and hands-on perspective have helped countless businesses scale effectively, bridging the gap between financial acumen and the human dynamics of entrepreneurship. This episode is an exploration of the realities of scaling a business. Chris opens up about the nuances of building sustainable growth models, the importance of cautious optimism, and the value of pattern recognition in investments. He also shares practical advice for entrepreneurs, such as understanding key performance indicators and knowing when to bring in a growth equity partner. With a final thought that poses the question (and reflection of), “what do you want your exit press release to say about your company?” In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of cautious optimism and healthy paranoia in scaling businesses effectively. Why understanding key performance indicators early can transform your company’s growth trajectory. How growth equity partnerships can provide more than capital (and what to look for when finding the right one) Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Lessons from moving from auditor to operator to investor (04:00) Why operational experience matters for investors (06:30) Surviving the dot-com boom and bust (08:00) What makes the “messy middle” so challenging (12:30) Spotting patterns for sustainable growth (15:00) Where growth equity fits in the funding lifecycle (18:00) Write your exit pressure (21:29) Investing in undeserved markets
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