Customer Success Talks

In the fast-paced world of Customer Success, every email counts but how do you make yours stand out in a crowded inbox? In this episode Jen Allen-Kanuth, sales trainer and co-founder of DemandJen, to uncover the psychology and strategy behind writing emails that get real responses. We break down what separates an ignored message from one that drives meaningful conversations from understanding the buyer’s mental spam filter to crafting subject lines that capture attention in under three seconds. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why intention is the foundation of every effective email. - How the law of least effort influences your reader’s behavior. - Ways to use AI tools like ChatGPT to personalize your outreach. - What makes a subject line trigger the right kind of curiosity. - Real examples of cold emails that actually worked. Get to know how DemandJen and how Jen help sales teams defeat customer status quo and earn buyer attention. https://demandjen.com/ Connect with Us: Jen Allen-Kanuth - https://www.linkedin.com/in/demandjen1/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/ Whether you’re a Customer Success Manager, Sales professional, or anyone who lives in their inbox, this episode will help you write smarter, more human emails that connect and convert. 🎧 Tune in now and start mastering the art of intentional communication.

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Anika Zubair!CSM needs to proactively focus on customer business outcomes, not just product features. By understanding and aligning with customer goals, CSMs drive strategic partnerships and business growth. It is not just about product knowledge; it is about enabling customer success. You can find the full conversation below: YouTube - https://youtu.be/GOSTIG69n-8 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1B7stSF6APgBjCE1LzlnRI?si=mV_-Zx3WTuWX8nhmE16c9Q Linkedin: Anika Zubair - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikazubair/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this episode, I had such a real and human conversation with Sandy Yu, founder of Revenue Retention Advisors and a long-time advocate of authentic personal branding. She unpack what it truly means to build a personal brand that reflects who we are not just the job title on our LinkedIn profile. Sandy shares how personal branding begins with identity, self-awareness, and understanding how others perceive us. She explains why every professional—especially in Customer Success—benefits from taking ownership of their brand, gathering honest feedback, and showing up consistently with authenticity and intention. From defining our audience, to leveraging LinkedIn more strategically, to creating meaningful content that aligns with your values, this conversation offers practical, human, and deeply grounded guidance for anyone looking to grow their career and strengthen their professional presence. Whether you’re transitioning into Customer Success, developing your voice, or simply trying to understand how to present yourself with confidence, this episode will remind you that: Everyone has a brand. Authenticity matters. And building your brand is a marathon—not a sprint. In this episode, I had such a real and human conversation with Sandy Yu, founder of Revenue Retention Advisors and a long-time advocate of authentic personal branding. She unpack what it truly means to build a personal brand that reflects who we are not just the job title on our LinkedIn profile.Sandy shares how personal branding begins with identity, self-awareness, and understanding how others perceive us. She explains why every professional—especially in Customer Success—benefits from taking ownership of their brand, gathering honest feedback, and showing up consistently with authenticity and intention.From defining our audience, to leveraging LinkedIn more strategically, to creating meaningful content that aligns with your values, this conversation offers practical, human, and deeply grounded guidance for anyone looking to grow their career and strengthen their professional presence.Whether you’re transitioning into Customer Success, developing your voice, or simply trying to understand how to present yourself with confidence, this episode will remind you that:Everyone has a brand.Authenticity matters.And building your brand is a marathon—not a sprint. Get to know how Sandy helps the Go-to-market team solve their challenges and all the resources she shares. www.revenueretention.net Connect with Us: Sandy Yu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandysyu/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Alexander Grabner-Jarlung you will discover the ABCDO of Storytelling framework that offers a structured approach to using stories effectively in customer success. Each element—Answer, Bounce, Counter, Duo, and Object—provides a unique way to leverage storytelling. By incorporating emotion and anticipation into data presentation, stories make information resonate and create a lasting impact. Data sings when stories are used. You can find the full conversation below:YouTube - https://youtu.be/P8cgifrex5cSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4j9DCAxYjTl4l1Amrqk7Kc?si=CSbgWHgCRqiKzyVd7AmdhA Linkedin: Alexander Grabner-Jarlung - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-grabner-jarlung/Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this powerful conversation, Morgan J. Ingram — Founder & CEO of AMP Social and one of the leading voices on personal branding & LinkedIn, joins me to break down what authentic branding really means today. This episode is not about AI — it’s about the mindset, consistency, and authenticity needed to build a brand that people trust. We talk about: - What personal branding actually is - Why AI will cause a massive trust crisis on social media - Why obsessiveness, curiosity & consistency beat talent - How to start building a brand even if you feel “nobody cares” - Finding your delivery mechanism: video, audio, or writing Discover AMP: https://www.theampsocial.com/ Connect with Us: Morgan J Ingram - https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganjingramamp/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/ If you’re transitioning into Customer Success, early in your CS career, or trying to build visibility on LinkedIn, this episode will reshape how you see branding forever.

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Greg Daines you will discover that instead of focusing solely on product fixes, prioritize helping customers define and achieve measurable results. Motivate behavior change, demonstrate early wins, and watch how those 'difficult' customers transform into your biggest advocates. You can find the full conversation below:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWCuYVBm32E&t=20sSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6pt3NDEKuG2WVC8pmeB7meLinkedin:Greg Daines - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregdaines/Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/Check out Women in Customer Success - https://www.womenincs.co/Follow us on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/Tik-Tok @customer.success6Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this episode of Customer Success Talks, we have our good friend Thomas Voigt, Founder of The CS Academy, to explore how frameworks can transform the way Customer Success Managers operate.Thomas introduces the ACE Framework — Activating Value, Cultivating Relationships, and Expanding Revenue — a simple yet powerful structure that helps teams deliver measurable impact across the customer journey.Together, we unpack what it really means to activate value during onboarding, build and maintain strong customer relationships, and identify opportunities to expand revenue through collaboration and trust.What you’ll learn:- Why frameworks bring structure and clarity to Customer Success- How to activate value early in the customer journey- Practical ways to cultivate relationships that drive retention- The power of being human — and making your customers smileFor more information about the A.C.E framework and Thomas's services, visit his website:https://www.thecsacademy.net/frameworkIt is not the first time we talk about framework; take a look at Andrea Rijna's episode, where she covers the S.P.I.C.E method.https://open.spotify.com/episode/32GybVTI5YPagqFycfA1ml?si=lJHRxqKfSUqub-Cj0chXcQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l74HK8xHMM8Connect with Us:Thomas Voigt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-voigt/Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/Follow us on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/Tik-Tok @customer.success6Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/If you’re a Customer Success Manager, Team Lead, or CS enthusiast looking for practical strategies and a more human approach to success, this episode is for you.Subscribe for more conversations that help you level up your Customer Success game!#CustomerSuccess #ACEFramework #CustomerEngagement #RetentionStrategies #Onboarding #CSM #CustomerSuccessManagement

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Vicky Kennedy, customer education can't be an afterthought! To scale, connect what your team already knows with what customers need. Listen, gather data, then build... You can find the full conversation below: YouTube: https://youtu.be/fb39GyCVtd0 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wc5yh82UJkbWT8nln2VFA Linkedin: Vicky Kennedy - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickykennedy/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Meet Echtus - https://www.linkedin.com/company/echtus/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this episode, we have the pleasure of having a special guest, Rachel Provan, a seasoned customer success leader, to explore the intersection of psychology and customer success. We discuss the importance of understanding human behavior, the psychological barriers customers face, and how these insights can enhance customer engagement and retention. Rachel emphasizes the need for customer success managers to focus on change management, motivation, and effective communication to drive results. The conversation also highlights the significance of recognizing and rewarding small achievements to foster positive habits in customers. Ultimately, the episode provides valuable strategies for customer success leaders to navigate the complexities of their roles and improve overall customer satisfaction. Interested in Rachel's Programs? https://provansuccess.com/ Check the first episode we recorded together back in 2023: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3wSbKxhl60TWNWhUdKTZZWConnect with Us:Rachel Provan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelhprovan/Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/Follow us on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/Tik-Tok @customer.success6Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Dr. Christopher Phelps, you will discover that authority isn't about boasting, it's about letting others showcase expertise. Motivate action through consistency and commitment, using small steps. Scarcity drives urgency, ethically combined with reciprocity. "People just want to get something off." You can find the full conversation below: YouTube https://youtu.be/C0HJy2uwxBg Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/79PwUiGOIiEOTiBofQytCC?si=_-D8vsmWRyaIZq92-kRH-A Linkedin: Dr. Christopher Phelps - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-christopher-phelps-2b48b718/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ https://cialdini.com/persuasion-power-course-for-dentistry/special-offer?via-rr=OA54EGAO Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this episode, we had the pleasure to learn from Denny Burda, who explored what it really takes to scale Customer Success effectively. From driving revenue growth to enhancing customer engagement, he unpacks the strategies, tools, and mindsets that help CSMs build scalable, high-performing programs. Denny shares practical insights on leveraging data, experimentation, and collaboration across teams to uncover new growth opportunities. Whether you’re a CSM managing a large portfolio or a leader aiming to optimize your CS organization, this episode offers actionable strategies to take your customer success efforts to the next level. Key Takeaways: - Customer Success is a dynamic and evolving discipline.- Scaling requires creativity, collaboration, and experimentation. - Focus on middle-performing customers for growth opportunities. - Use data insights to drive meaningful customer engagement. - Automate and streamline processes to maximize efficiency. - Build strong relationships at scale by combining technology and empathy. Denny also gave us a sneak peek into The Revenue Lab — a 6-week series starting January 15, 2026, in collaboration with CS Connect, designed to help CS professionals tie their work directly to revenue impact. Check it out: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/csconnect/1923015 Connect with Us: Denny Burda - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennyburda/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Marija Skobe-Pille you will discover unlock career potential! Explore how expanding your role, offering solutions, and envisioning long-term goals can lead to advancement. Don't just aim for a 9-to-5; bring value and watch opportunities unfold. 'Bring me solutions, not problems.' You can find the full conversation below: YouTube - https://youtu.be/iTHdf-qYWIY Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1GepzXfaMyiBufhAUq1EpU?si=nQaOQV_SQvugetgg3C_0lA Linkedin: Marija Skobe-Pille - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mspilley/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Check out Women in Customer Success - https://www.womenincs.co/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this episode, I had the pleasure of recording with Bill McGowan—Emmy Award-winning journalist, bestselling author of Speak, Memorably: The Art of Captivating an Audience, and communication coach to leaders at Amazon, Facebook, Uber, LinkedIn, and more.We dive deep into what it really takes to communicate memorably in today’s remote-first business world. From avoiding jargon and filler words to mastering storytelling and empathy, Bill shares practical strategies for making every conversation, presentation, and client interaction impactful.You’ll learn:- The art of listening with empathy to build trust.- How storytelling makes you stand out from the noise.- Ways to structure a presentation like a filmmaker for maximum impact.- A simple technique to deliver bad news without damaging relationships.Whether you’re an early-career Customer Success Manager or a professional who wants to sharpen communication skills, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you rise above the noise, engage your audience, and be remembered. Check out Bill's website, where you can find his book and more resources - https://www.claritymediagroup.com/speakmemorably Connect with Us: Bill McGowan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-mcgowan-7103b/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Ali Cudby you will discover the secrets to transforming casual customers into dedicated advocates. Learn strategies for recognition, celebration, and leveraging data to build lasting relationships and drive revenue growth. 'It's not always necessary to over-engineer stuff.' You can find the full conversation below: YouTube - https://youtu.be/d8XNsK7F-oY Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2sRCJDKXImSsoa14PyEYEU?si=h2wwXmhqT-2npTFyBZhGfw In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Ali Cudby you will discover the secrets to transforming casual customers into dedicated advocates. Learn strategies for recognition, celebration, and leveraging data to build lasting relationships and drive revenue growth. 'It's not always necessary to over-engineer stuff.' You can find the full conversation below: YouTube - https://youtu.be/d8XNsK7F-oY Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2sRCJDKXImSsoa14PyEYEU?si=h2wwXmhqT-2npTFyBZhGfw Linkedin: Ali Cudby - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicudby/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Check our Ali's book: Keep your customers - https://alignmintforgrowth.com/book/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this episode of Customer Success Talks, host Bayron Toruño sits down with Chad Horenfeldt, VP of Customer Success and author of The Strategic Customer Success Manager. Together, they explore what it really takes to move beyond firefighting and product support into becoming a strategic advisor customers rely on. You’ll learn: - Why trust and value are the foundations of customer success - How to prepare for impactful customer meetings without burning out - The power of motivational interviewing and social proof in influencing customers - Practical tips for setting effective call-to-actions that actually get followed through - How to leverage AI tools to save time and elevate conversations - The top three skills every Customer Success Manager needs to grow into a strategic role Whether you’re new to CS or looking to uplevel your career, this conversation will give you actionable strategies to build credibility, drive business outcomes, and future-proof your career in the age of AI. Check out Chad's website, where you can find his book and more resources that will impact your goal to become a strategic CSM - https://www.strategiccustomersuccess.com/ Go can go back to the episodes mentioned during the episode: Driving Business Growth as a Strategic Advisor with Anika Zubair - https://youtu.be/GOSTIG69n-8?si=wmH_6Ux_v1sxNN9n The Power of Persuasion in Customer Success: Practical Strategies | Dr. Christopher Phelps - https://youtu.be/LEx_hqfPNyQ?si=Tztg08T9Rwdc-8cU Connect with Us: Chad Horenfeldt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadhorenfeldt/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In today's CSM Quick Lesson, Donna Weber. Discover how aligning with your customers' journey builds trust and fosters long-term partnerships. 'Every time we meet, we should be delivering value. Customer success hinges on clear communication and valuing client time, not just product delivery.You can find the full conversation below:YouTube - https://youtu.be/vul6RsDzH78Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2KhCUm5JGSL0cFSWfVYwPU?si=a610ea064f064dc7Linkedin:Dona Weber - https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnaweb/Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/Check our Dona's book: Onboarding Matters - https://www.donnaweber.com/bookFollow us on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/Tik-Tok @customer.success6Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/ #customersuccess #onboarding #customerexperience #businesstips

Starting a new role as a Customer Success Manager in a startup can feel exciting and overwhelming. In this episode, Priscilla Fletcher, Customer Success leader, coach, and founder of Latinos in Customer Success, breaks down how to navigate your first 90 days as a new CSM.She also discusses the importance of prioritization, mentorship, and building influence maps to thrive in fast-paced startup environments.Whether you’re transitioning into Customer Success or starting fresh at a new company, this conversation will give you the tools, mindset, and confidence to succeed.Key takeaways:- How to structure your first 30, 60, and 90 days as a new CSM- Why creating your own onboarding plan is essential in startups- How to find mentors, allies, and influential colleagues early on- Practical tips for balancing learning, execution, and impactJoin us for an inspiring and actionable conversation designed to help you start strong in your Customer Success career. See you at Latinos in Success - https://join.slack.com/t/latinosinsuccess/shared_invite/zt-2dxwfojy8-VwI5lHb19X1Bgo~IrYy3Xg Latinos in Success LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/latinos-in-success/posts/?feedView=all Check Priscila's Website - https://prifletch.com/ Connect with Us:Priscila Fletcher - https://www.linkedin.com/in/priscilafletcher/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In today's CSM Quick Lesson with Jan Young, we explore the ideal timing, the right person, and the perfect product for expansion. Don't erode trust by selling too aggressively!In other words, nurture relationships pre-sale but focus on needs post-sale. You can find the full conversation below: YouTube - https://youtu.be/63GecVQZ1qE Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/0WE3pzr5cdWmYfyhboPdzX?si=b50c779f91434f1f Linkedin: Jan Young - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-young-cx/Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Nav Thomas - https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneeththomas/ Needing couching? Check Jan's website - https://www.janyoungcx.com/ Check out CXxchange - https://www.thecxxchange.com/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Miriam Hirt, Head of Customer Success, to explore the true power of NPS surveys. With 7+ years of experience building CS teams and processes, Miriam shares her candid love-hate relationship with NPS, why feedback often goes unacted upon, and how her team transformed a bumpy survey journey into a structured, scalable voice of the customer program. You’ll learn: - When and how to send surveys for maximum response and impact - Why feedback is only valuable if you act on it and how to do that- The importance of segmenting your users and feedback types - How to collaborate cross-functionally to drive change - A practical, step-by-step guide to launching or improving your own survey strategy Whether you're just starting with surveys or want to improve how your org listens to customers, this episode is packed with real-world insights you can implement immediately. Mentioned: How to Win Customers and Keep Them for Life by Michael LeBoeuf Connect with Us: Myriam Hirt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/myriam-hirt/Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/

What’s the real difference between Customer Experience (CX) and Customer Success (CS) and how can they work together to build loyalty, drive measurable results, and create seamless customer journeys? 🔗Sponsored by Vitally – the modern Customer Success Platform. Book a qualified demo and get a FREE pair of AirPods Pro!👉 https://vital.io/cstalks In this episode, we’re joined by Vaishali Dilani – CX strategist, award-winning mentor, speaker, and co-author of CX5. With over 9 years of experience designing impactful customer experiences across industries from SaaS and fintech to healthcare and education, Vaishali shares exactly: - The 3 pillars of a world-class customer experience - How CX and CS roles complement (and differ from) each other - What a well-designed customer journey really looks like- How to start a CX project when no one owns it yet - Ways to align teams internally and use AI for smarter CX - Tangible steps to elevate proactive customer success Whether you're a CSM, CX leader, or just getting started in customer-centric roles, this episode is packed with strategic insight and actionable advice. Connect with Us: Vaishali Dialani - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaishalidialani/ Bayron Toruno - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayron-toru%C3%B1o-solano-3a9408113/ Follow us on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cstalkspodcast/ Tik-Tok @customer.success6 Explore Our Podcast Website - https://cstalkspodcast.com/ We're expanding to Latin America! Check out Customer Success Talks Latin America, our Spanish version of the show. Find the links in the description below. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/5R8kF7Yt0VbvNS1Wz06bmEsi=zshhJqR9RDevDal5GluZ0Q YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC11VRvlLrv3r46TaUr0zFlA