Utilization isn’t just a metric — it’s the key to unlocking profitability, clarity and accountability across your entire team. In this episode, Michael Daoud, Founder and CEO of Visus LLC, sits down with us to share how transparency in utilization can transform operational efficiency in professional services firms. He highlights the value of role-based utilization targets and the importance of weekly over monthly KPI tracking for agility.

Key Takeaways:



(00:54) Making utilization transparent directly impacts revenue and profitability.

(01:44) Custom data pipelines using PSA platforms offer richer insights than native reports.

(03:27) Daily time entries are essential for real-time visibility.

(05:44) Color-coded bar charts inspire self-correction without management pressure.

(09:46) Transparency prevents idle bench time and promotes strategic internal initiatives.

(12:17) Weekly tracking allows earlier course correction than monthly reviews.

(14:24) Teams can start with spreadsheets before building advanced data warehouses.

(16:09) Team members can access their utilization data anytime without waiting for reports.

Resources Mentioned:

Michael Daoud

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldaoud/

Visus LLC | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/visus-llc./

Visus LLC | Website

https://visusllc.com/

This episode is brought to you by Content Allies.

Content Allies helps B2B tech companies launch revenue-generating podcasts and build relationships that drive revenue through podcast networking.

We schedule interviews with your ideal prospects and strategic partners so that you can build relationships and grow your business.

You show up and have conversations, we handle everything else. Learn more at ContentAllies.com.

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Most brands focus on messaging — but is that enough? In today’s episode, Tamsen Webster, Founder and Chief Learning Officer of Message Design Institute, shares insights on the power of message design and its role in shaping effective brand communication. Tamsen explains how businesses can move beyond messaging to establish a core message that aligns with their audience’s beliefs and needs. She also explains why message design is an excavation process rather than an invention, uncovering the true value behind a company’s approach.

Key Takeaways:

(02:30) The difference between messaging and message design and why it matters.

(04:56) A strong message must be built on a foundation that customers already agree with.

(05:11) Brand positioning is different from a company’s core position — knowing the difference is critical.

(12:18) Aspirational messaging often misaligns with reality.

(17:46) Effective messaging is not about convincing but about aligning with audience beliefs.

(19:41) Start with what your audience already wants, not just the problem they have.

(25:48) A well-defined message helps brands create content that resonates and converts.

(28:49) A clear core message saves time and streamlines efforts.

Resources Mentioned:

Tamsen Webster

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamsenwebster/

Message Design Institute | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/message-design-institute/

Message Design Institute | Website

https://messagedesigninstitute.com/

Content Allies helps B2B tech companies launch revenue-generating podcasts and build relationships that drive revenue through podcast networking.

We schedule interviews with your ideal prospects and strategic partners so that you can build relationships and grow your business.

You show up and have conversations, we handle everything else. Learn more at ContentAllies.com

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Most businesses unknowingly leave money on the table — are you one of them? In this episode, we’re joined by Brian Doyle, President and CEO of Holden Advisors, who shares strategies for increasing pricing power to drive revenue and profitability. Brian is an ex-Air Force pilot and recognized expert in leadership and communication. Brian explains how businesses can improve their revenue and profitability through value-based pricing strategy and go-to-market effectiveness.

Key Takeaways:

(01:36) Businesses often leave money on the table by underpricing their offerings.

(03:42) Pricing power depends on value, market position and sales execution.

(06:03) Customer insights reveal pricing opportunities.

(09:46) Use cascading questions to quantify value.

(15:23) Procurement uses standard tactics to lower prices.

(17:07) The “give-get” strategy ties price cuts to value reduction.

(21:23) Understanding procurement motivations preserves pricing integrity.

(22:52) Procurement’s asks are part of the game — expect them and stay strategic.

Resources Mentioned:

Brian Doyle -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianadoyle/

Holden Advisors | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/holden-advisors/

Holden Advisors | Website -

https://holdenadvisors.com/

This episode is brought to you by Content Allies.

Content Allies helps B2B tech companies launch revenue-generating podcasts and build relationships that drive revenue through podcast networking.

We schedule interviews with your ideal prospects and strategic partners so that you can build relationships and grow your business.

You show up and have conversations, we handle everything else. Learn more at ContentAllies.com

#B2B #BusinessLeaders #Leadership