The Professional Services Pursuit
Business & Finance
About
Our goal is simple: to give professional services leaders a place to go to be inspired and tap into expert advice, trends and best practices in our collective pursuit of excellence. From agencies to IT services and every PS organization in between, our hosts and guests will provide the insights you need to drive a resource first organization and do what you do best, only better. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
- Ep. 117 - The 3 Shifts That Will Make or Break Consulting Firms in 2026 w/ Sarah Edwards
Sarah Edwards, Kantata's Chief Product Strategy Officer, joins Brent to explore how consulting firms must adapt to 2026 challenges. They discuss the decline of headcount-driven growth, the influence of AI on talent models, and the necessit…
- Ep. 116 - From Dependency to Autonomy: Consulting Rewired w/ Sarah Edwards & James Cawthorne
This episode features a conversation between Sarah Edwards and James Cawthorne on the evolving consulting landscape. They discuss the shift from client dependency to autonomy, introducing the concept of "autonomic consulting" which embeds…
- Ep. 115 - SaaS Is Under Fire: Who Survives the AI Shift, and Why It Matters for Services Leaders w/ Michael Speranza
In this episode, Michael Speranza joins Brent to discuss how AI is causing buyers to question the value of SaaS. They explore which SaaS companies are most at risk, the diminishing role of code as a competitive advantage, and the increasin…
- Ep. 114 - Women’s History Month: 3 Women, 3 Paths to Leadership and Impact w/ Lauren Langston, Jennifer Schutz and Melissa Korzun
In this episode honoring Women's History Month, leaders Jennifer Schutz, Lauren Langston, and Melissa Korzun share insights on their career paths, leadership strategies, and the importance of adaptability and authenticity. They discuss gro…
- Ep. 113 - Operationalizing AI in Consulting: Governance, Talent Shifts & the Move to Outcome-Based Pricing w/Tom Rodenhauser
In this episode of The Professional Services Pursuit, Brent interviews Tom Rodenhauser about how consulting firms are operationalizing AI. They discuss governance, talent shifts, and the move towards outcome-based pricing, examining how AI…
- Ep. 112 - Reinventing Agency Value for What’s Next w/ Caroline Johnson, Patricia Rothenberg and Michael Farmer
In this special compilation episode, Brent revisits three powerful conversations with leaders who have fundamentally reimagined how agencies price, position, and deliver value. As AI accelerates productivity, procurement squeezes margins,…
- Ep. 111 - Consulting M&A Trends for 2026 w/ Ramone Param
In this episode of The Professional Services Pursuit, Brent is joined once again by Ramone Param, Managing Director at Kennedy M&A, to kick off a new series focused on mergers and acquisitions in professional services. Together, they refle…
- Ep. 110 - A Crawl–Walk–Run Path to Outcome-Driven Services w/ Melissa Korzun
AI is rewriting the rules of professional services. As delivery time compresses and impact accelerates, traditional pricing models — T&M, fixed-fee, retainers — are starting to break. In this episode, Banoo is joined by Melissa Korzun, Kan…
- Ep. 109 - A Practical Approach to Technology Decisions That Stand the Test of Change w/ Shawn Windle
In this episode of The Professional Services Pursuit, host Brent sits down with Shawn Windle, Founder and Managing Principal of ERP Advisors Group, to unpack a challenge nearly every professional services firm is grappling with: how to cho…
- Ep. 108 - The Evolving Role of the CFO: Driving Strategy, Operational Clarity & Scalable Growth w/ Steve De Santis & Dave Ristow
In this episode of The Pursuit Power Half Hour , Brent sits down with two seasoned CFOs, Steve DeSantis and Dave Ristow, to explore how the role of finance leadership has rapidly expanded across professional services. They discuss how CFOs…
- Ep. 107 - The Five 2026 Anti-Trends Professional Services Leaders Need to Hear w/ Brian Sommer
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast, host Banoo sits down with industry analyst and longtime consulting leader Brian Sommer to break down the five critical “anti-trends” professional services firms must confront he…
- Ep. 106 - The Billable Hour Is Dying: A New Era of Delivery Health Metrics w/ Kyle Sandine
What if the billable hour is hiding the real health of your delivery organization? In this episode, we talk with Kyle Sandine, Associate Director of PMO and Delivery Center of Excellence at Adage Technologies, about why utilization and cha…
- Ep. 105 - From Blind Spots to Breakthroughs: The Power of Benchmarking w/ Charles Gustine & Connor Budden
Professional services leaders are constantly balancing growth, delivery, and profitability, but what if the biggest opportunities are hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Charles Gustine, Director of Customer and Market Insights at Kant…
- Ep. 104 - How to Build Scalable Resource Models Without Burning Out Your Teams w/ Julie Grove
In this episode, Banoo sits down with Julie Grove, Senior Manager of Resource Management at Anthology, to unpack how to centralize resource management without losing flexibility or local autonomy. Julie shares her five-step blueprint for b…
- Ep. 103 - Strategies to Optimize Resource Forecasting, Skills Management, and Agility w/ Greg Hensley
Resource forecasting has never been trickier. With shifting client expectations, unpredictable markets, and outdated tools, even the most sophisticated services organizations struggle to see what’s coming next. In this episode, Brent sits…
- Ep. 102 - Preparing for the Future of Professional Services w/ Fortuné Alexander and Bo DiMuccio
The professional services industry is evolving at record speed — is your firm ready to keep pace? In this special episode, we bring you the recording of an expert-led discussion with Bo DiMuccio, VP of Professional Services Research at TSI…
- Ep. 101 - Operational Discipline: What Separates Scaling from Stalling w/ Alex Klein and Ramone Param from Kennedy Intelligence (Part 5)
In this final installment of our Kennedy Intelligence Series, host Brent is joined once again by Alex Klein and Ramone Param to unpack the “unsexy” but mission-critical side of growth: your back office. From pricing and cash flow to govern…
- Ep. 100 - Milestone Moment Q&A with Brent and Banoo
To celebrate a major milestone — our 100th episode of the Professional Services Pursuit — we flipped the script. Guest host Dominique steps out from behind the scenes to put Brent and Banoo in the hot seats. This time, instead of asking th…
- Ep. 99 - The Talent Illusion of Hiring Stars vs Building Systems w/ Alex Klein and Tom Rodenhauser from Kennedy Intelligence (Part 4)
In the fourth installment of our series with Kennedy Intelligence, Brent is joined again by Alex Klein and Tom Rodenhauser to explore one of the most persistent myths in the professional services industry: the belief that hiring a few “sta…
- Ep. 98 - Why "Client Love" Isn’t Enough to Scale Your PS Firm w/ Alex Klein and Tom Rodenhauser from Kennedy Intelligence (Part 3)
In this third episode of our series with Kennedy Intelligence, host Brent reunites with Alex Klein and Tom Rodenhauser to break down why “Client Love” alone won’t scale your consulting firm past $30M. They share hard-won insights and pract…
- Ep. 97 - Innovation Without Compromise: IT’s Role in Securing the AI Future w/ Taison Kearney
How are today’s IT leaders adapting to the breakneck pace of AI and cybersecurity evolution? In this episode of The Professional Services Pursuit , host Banoo welcomes Taison Kearney, Chief Information Security Officer and Data Protection…
- Ep. 96 - The 5-Step AI Readiness Framework for Agile Business Leaders w/ Andrew Cohen
In this episode Banoo welcomes back Andrew Cohen, EVP of Innovation & Ai at Netsurit, to explore how artificial intelligence, automation, and real-time data visibility are transforming the IT services and professional services industries.…
- Ep. 95 - Turning Growth into Sustainable Profit: What Top Firms Do Differently w/ Alex Klein and Ramone Param from Kennedy Intelligence (Part 2)
In this episode, host Brent reunites with Kennedy Intelligence’s Ramone Param and Alex Klein for Part 2 of the “Breaking the $30 Million Ceiling” series. This installment dives deep into the nuances of profitability and growth, challenging…
- Ep. 94 - Mastering the Art and Science of Agency Leadership w/ Patricia Rothenberg
In this energizing episode Brent sits down with Patricia Rothenberg, Global COO and General Counsel of renowned creative agency 72andSunny. From iconic Super Bowl ads to pioneering value-based pricing and navigating AI disruption, Patricia…
- Ep. 93 - The 3 P's to Profit: Proposition, Positioning, and Pricing for Growth w/ Alex Klein and Tom Rodenhauser from Kennedy Intelligence (Part 1)
In this episode, we kick off a new series with Kennedy Intelligence, diving into the challenges and strategies for professional services firms aiming to break through the $30 million revenue ceiling. Throughout this series will be challeng…
- Ep. 92 - Operationalizing AI: Beyond the Buzz w/ David DeWolf
In this episode, Banoo sits down with David DeWolf, President and CEO of Knownwell, to talk about what it really takes to move from AI experimentation to AI-powered transformation. With 75% of firms now supporting GenAI (per the 2025 SPI M…
- Ep. 91 - From Evaluation to Execution — Cracking the Code on Tech Integration w/ Austin Grigg
When it comes to choosing and integrating new technology, the process can get messy—fast. In this episode, Banoo sits down with Austin Grigg , co-founder and CEO of Kalon Creative , to break down what it really takes to navigate a successf…
- Ep. 90 – Unlocking Peak Performance: Rethinking Consulting Talent Development w/ Angela Navarro
In this episode of The Professional Services Pursuit , Brent is joined by Angela Navarro, CEO of Kinavic Leadership Acceleration, to explore how consulting firms can unlock the full potential of their partner and Managing Director (MD) tal…
- Ep. 89 - Change Management Strategies: How to Drive Lasting Tech Adoption w/ Melissa Korzun
In this episode of The Professional Services Pursuit, Banoo welcomes Melissa Korzun, Vice President of CX Operations at Kantata. Together, they explore the critical role of change management in selecting, implementing, and optimizing new t…
- Ep. 88 - From Data to Decisions: Key Takeaways from the 2025 PS Maturity Benchmark Report w/ Charles Gustine
In this insightful episode of The Professional Services Pursuit, Brent sits down with Charles Gustine, Director of Customer and Market Insights at Kantata, to break down the key findings from the 2025 Service Performance Insight (SPI) Prof…
- Ep. 87 - The 2025 Benchmark Breakdown: What Sets High-Performing Firms Apart w/Dave Hofferberth
This episode features a special recording from a recent Kantata webinar with Dave Hofferberth, Managing Director at Service Performance Insights. Each year, the release of the SPI Professional Services Maturity Benchmark Report is a much-a…
- Ep. 86 - Unlocking PMO Success in 2025: Advice from Industry Expert w/ Monique Ludwig
Join host Banoo on the Professional Services Pursuit as she welcomes Monique Ludwig, Director of Global Services PMO at Ciena. With 30 years of experience in technology and project management, Monique offers expert insights into optimizing…
- Ep. 85 - Essential Strategies for Successful Tech Implementation w/ Kurt Kilgore
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, Brent teams up with Kurt Kilgore, the SVP of Global Professional Services at Kantata, to continue our series on simplifying the often daunting process of purchasing technology or softwa…
- Ep. 84 - Defining, Implementing, and Thriving with the Right Technology w/ Meredith Brake
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, Banoo is joined by Meredith Brake, VP and Head of Service Ops and Enablement at Altus Group, to kick off a new series simplifying the complex process of purchasing technology or softwar…
- Ep. 83 - New Year, New Predictions: How AI, Tech and Talent Will Shape 2025
Happy New Year! Join Brent and Bonoo as they kick off 2025 with a look into the future of the professional services industry. In this insightful episode, they reflect on the events of 2024 and discuss trends and predictions for the coming…
- Ep. 82 - Beyond Heroic Delivery: AI’s Role in Shaping New Agency Economic Models w/ Adam Cotumaccio and Patricia Rothenberg
Welcome to another episode of the Professional Services Pursuit. This episode features a recording from a recent webinar hosted by the 4A’s. Brent joins Adam Cotumaccio, COO at 4A’s, and Patricia Rothenberg, Global COO and General Counsel…
- Ep. 81 - Shaping Tomorrow: How Gen Z is Redefining the Workplace w/ Gurgèn Tadevosyan, Nikhil Patel & Armita Behboodi
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast, Banoo wraps up our series on Gen Z in the workplace. Featuring insights from three remarkable Gen Z professionals, this conversation delves into how their generation is reshapin…
- Ep. 80 - A Deep Dive into the State of the Professional Services Industry w/ John Ragsdale
In this insightful episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast, host Brent welcomes back John Ragsdale, Distinguished Researcher, Vice President of Technology Ecosystems at TSIA. The conversation dives deep into the key findings f…
- Ep. 79 - Ghosts of Projects Past: Professional Services Horror Stories w/ Brent and Banoo
Welcome to a special Halloween-themed episode of The Professional Services Pursuit! Join hosts Banoo and Brent as they share spooky tales from their collective 40 years of experience in the professional services industry. Get ready for a c…
- Ep.78 - Behind the Budget: What Drives CFOs to Invest in Innovation
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast, Brent welcomes Igor Mamut, VP of Strategic Finance at Kantata, for a deep dive into the evolving role of the CFO in the professional services industry. They explore the strategi…
- Ep.77 - SoDA Webinar: Agency Trends and The Cost of Inaction w/ Tom Beck, Deborah Heslip and Louise Martens
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, we share a recent webinar we did with The Society of Digital Agencies (SoDA). Tom Beck, SoDA’s Executive Director, interviewed Brent, Deborah Heslip and Louise Martens from the Monks Ag…
- Ep. 76 - Navigating Multi-Generational Workforces w/ Meagan Johnson
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, Banoo continues her exploration of generational differences in the workplace by talking with Meagan Johnson. Meagan, a renowned generational expert, author, and corporate speaker, share…
- Ep. 75 - Consultant, Heal Thyself: The Roadmap for Increased Valuations and Glorious Exits w/ Tom Rodenhauser & Ramone Param
In this compelling episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, Brent welcomes back Tom Rodenhauser and introduces Ramone Param, both from Kennedy Intelligence. They discuss the pivotal role private equity (PE) is playing in reshaping the…
- Ep. 74 - Mastering Customer Journeys & Career Balance w/ Sabina Pons
Welcome to another insightful episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast! Join our host, Banoo, as she dives deep into the professional services industry with Sabina Pons, Managing Director at Growth Molecules and co-author of th…
- Ep. 73 - The Agency Secret: Mastering Value and Growth w/ Anthony Gindin
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, Brent sits down with Anthony Gindin, founder and CEO of Agency Different. Anthony, humorously dubbed the Canadian Don Draper, brings over 23 years of experience in the agency world, hav…
- Ep. 72 - Understanding and Engaging Gen Z in the Workforce w/ Tessa Misiaszek
In this episode of The Professional Services Pursuit, Banoo talks with Tessa Misiaszek, head of research at the Korn Ferry Institute and host of The Happy at Work Podcast . They dive into the unique characteristics and values of Gen Z empl…
- Ep. 71 - TSIA TECH on Deck Webinar Recording: Redefining Professional Services Technology w/ Jared Haleck and John Ragsdale
In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit Podcast, we revisit our April webinar with TSIA. In the ever-evolving world of professional services, outstanding client experiences are the benchmark of success. Achieving this requires…
- Ep. 70 - Elevating Client Partnerships: Building Trust and Driving Revenue w/ Jacob Parks
Welcome to another episode of the Professional Services Pursuit! This week Brent sits down with Jacob Parks, the president of Profitable Ideas Exchange (PIE) and co-author of the renowned book Never Say Sell: How the World’s Best Consultin…
- Ep. 69 - Adapting to Change: Agencies, AI, and the Future of Value Creation w/ Matthew Kasindorf
In this episode, Brent talks to Matthew Kasindorf, SVP of Business Intelligence and Insights at the 4A's. Matt brings a wealth of knowledge from his agency experience in account management, business development, and his current role at 4A'…
- Ep. 68 - Tech Debt Unmasked: The Culprit Behind Your Costliest Blind Spots and Bottlenecks w/ John Ragsdale and Melissa Korzun
This episode of the Professional Services Pursuit is a recording from a recent TSIA webinar hosted by John Ragsdale, Distinguished Researcher, Vice President, Technology Ecosystems at TSIA. In it we discuss the hidden costs associated with…