• No, AI Can't Save You From Bad PIM with Usman Khalid
    Nov 21 2025

    Stop guessing and start growing your energy and industrial firm.

    Take the FREE GO Assessment: Growth Optimization Survey now!

    👉 https://bit.ly/hex-file-go-assessment

    __________________________________________

    How can mastering product data and streamlining workflows with PIM systems transform your business, and why is it essential for staying ahead in the fast-changing digital landscape?


    In Episode 12 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez talks with Usman Khalid, Founder & CEO of Centric, an expert in product data and digital systems, about why Product Information Management (PIM) is key for growing companies. Usman explains the difference between PIM and MDM, when companies should invest in these tools, and how clean product data improves customer experience, speeds up go-to-market, and helps avoid costly mistakes. He shares real-world stories, how AI is changing the game, and what leaders need to know to stay ahead.


    With strong product data knowledge, Usman Khalid explains why PIM is not just an IT tool but a key part of business growth. He shows how clear product information helps teams move faster, sell better, and avoid mistakes. Usman shares signs a company needs PIM, how it supports marketing and sales, and why it matters more as AI and e-commerce grow. He also gives tips on driving change and using data to stay ahead in a fast-moving market.


    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • What makes PIM different from MDM and why both matter
    • How poor product data hurts sales, trust, and brand image
    • When growing companies should invest in a PIM system
    • Ways AI is changing product content, images, and launch speed
    • Why good data helps teams move faster and sell smarter


    Timestamps:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [01:07] - Introduction of podcast & guest Usman Khalid

    [03:03] - What are MDM and PIM, and why do they matter?

    [05:35] - How product data impacts revenue and trust?

    [08:26] - Early signs a company needs a PIM system

    [11:09] - Who should own PIM and why is it not just IT?

    [14:12] - How does PIM improve speed, accuracy, and sales?

    [17:12] - Common budget gaps and how to show ROI

    [24:09] - What AI brings to product content and images?

    [28:00] - Usman’s advice on using data as a growth driver


    Follow our Guest Usman Khalid on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uskhalid/
    • Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/centricdxb/
    • Company (Website): https://www.centricdxb.com/


    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dasprez-3a949a/
    • Facebook:...
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    35 Min.
  • The Digital Transformation Strategy for Leaders to Drive Execution Speed & Alignment with Nomah Zia
    Oct 30 2025

    Stop guessing and start growing your energy and industrial firm.

    Take the FREE GO Assessment: Growth Optimization Survey now!

    👉 https://bit.ly/hex-file-go-assessment

    __________________________________________

    What makes digital execution the missing link between great strategies and real business results & how can aligning teams and systems drive faster transformation?


    In Episode 11 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez speaks with Nomah Zia, Fractional Digital Experience and Technology Consultant at Technology Advisor, about how companies can speed up digital transformation. Nomah shares why strategy alone isn’t enough and how clear goals, fast action, and team alignment lead to real results. She breaks down what a good customer experience looks like, common red flags, and why speed matters more than ever in today’s fast-changing tech world.


    With deep digital expertise, Nomah Zia explains how companies can improve by focusing less on tools and more on teamwork. She shows how clear goals, fast action, and strong team roles help turn strategy into real results. Nomah also shares how good customer experience feels smooth and human, and why speed, structure, and shared goals are key to success in the digital world.


    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • Why digital strategy is more than just tools and tech
    • How to build teams that move fast and work as one
    • What makes a customer experience smooth and human
    • Red flags that slow down digital progress and results
    • Simple ways to use AI for faster and smarter work


    Timestamps:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [01:02] - Introduction of podcast & guest Nomah Zia

    [02:45] - What does digital transformation really mean?

    [04:02] - First steps: Strategy, systems, and structure

    [05:36] - What makes a good customer experience

    [06:49] - How empathy and context shape results?

    [07:34] - Red flags that signal strategy is failing

    [08:50] - Building teams for speed and outcomes

    [10:55] - When to use agencies vs internal teams?

    [11:56] - Why execution speed drives revenue?

    [14:20] - Advice for digital leaders and using AI


    Follow our Guest Nomah Zia on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nomah-zia/
    • Website: https://nomahzia.com/


    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dasprez-3a949a/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arnaud.dasprez
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arnauddasprez/

    Follow the Podcast:

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    16 Min.
  • How Fixing Your Message Unlocks Sales Growth Without More Effort with Michael Halper
    Sep 26 2025

    What makes sales messaging the missing link between missed opportunities and more booked meetings & how can aligning it with marketing drive real results?

    In Episode 10 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez and guest Michael Halper, Founder and CEO of Sales Scripter, talk about how sales teams can improve results with clear, focused messaging. Michael shares how building a strong message helps reps ask better questions, connect with prospects, and book more meetings. He also explains how good messaging can align sales and marketing teams, reduce cold call anxiety, and grow sales faster in any industry.

    With years of sales experience, Michael Halper explains how sales teams can improve by using clear messaging. He shows how strong messages help reps ask better questions, focus on customer needs, and book more meetings. Michael also shares how this method reduces pressure on cold calls, builds trust, and helps sales and marketing teams work better together to boost results.

    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • Why clear sales messaging boosts meeting success
    • How to shift from product to customer-focused messages
    • Tips to ask better questions and handle objections
    • How sales and marketing teams can align through messaging
    • The role of AI in helping build better sales messages

    Timestamps:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [01:01] - Introduction of podcast & guest Michael Halper

    [02:17] - Why clear messaging is key to successful sales

    [04:40] - Difference between a message and an elevator pitch

    [08:25] - How political messaging mirrors sales strategy

    [11:40] - Avoid sounding scripted: Use outlines, not scripts

    [13:13] - Adapting sales messages across channels and audiences

    [16:51] - Aligning sales and marketing through messaging

    [21:18] - Why Michael built Sales Scripter to fix messaging gaps

    [25:44] - Quick wins: Questions, pain points, and improvements

    [28:24] - AI’s role in creating stronger sales messages

    [30:17] - The future of messaging: Constant learning and updates

    [31:42] - Where to find Michael and free training resources

    Follow our Guest Michael Halper on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhalper/
    • Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/salesscripter/
    • Company (Website): https://salesscripter.com/
    • Company (Youtube): https://www.youtube.com/@SalesScripter/

    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dasprez-3a949a/
    • Facebook:
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    33 Min.
  • WeWork Scandals and EBITDA Engineering: B2B Growth with Agencies and Fractional CMOs
    Sep 4 2025

    How does the collaboration between fractional CMOs and agencies, particularly in the B2B sector, drive growth and enhance revenue generation for private equity-backed companies?

    In Episode 9 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez and guest Frederik Klaarenbeek, Founder & Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Klaarenbeek Advisory, discuss how B2B companies can boost growth through the hybrid model of fractional CMOs and agencies. They explain how this approach helps businesses scale quickly, align marketing with sales, and drive revenue by using strategic marketing, customer insights, and collaboration to achieve long-term success in competitive markets.

    With over 20 years of experience in marketing, Frederik Klaarenbeek shares his expertise on how B2B companies can drive growth by combining fractional CMOs and agencies. He explains how this hybrid model helps companies scale quickly, improve collaboration between teams, and align marketing with sales to increase revenue. Frederik also discusses how businesses can adapt to changing markets by using customer insights and strategic marketing to stay ahead of the competition.

    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • How fractional CMOs and agencies drive growth for B2B companies
    • Why marketing and sales alignment is key to success
    • The benefits of customer insights in shaping marketing strategies
    • How companies can scale quickly by collaborating across teams
    • The importance of adapting to changing markets with strategic marketing

    📢 If you’re looking for new growth opportunities, feel free to reach out to Frederik Klaarenbeek at frederik@klareenbeek.com or call (425) 315-6531.

    Timestamps:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [01:07] - Introduction of podcast & guest Frederik Klaarenbeek

    [04:22] - Why B2B companies choose hybrid agency + fractional CMO

    [06:24] - Role of a fractional CMO vs. agency in go-to-market

    [09:46] - Case study: Additive manufacturing turnaround in 60 days

    [12:10] - How private equity is evolving marketing priorities

    [14:17] - Pitfalls: Lack of focus, data clarity, and messaging

    [15:59] - First 90 days: Playbook, metrics, and operating rhythm

    [21:03] - Transitioning from fractional to full-time CMO

    [23:34] - Measuring brand value in a private equity context

    [25:28] - Key marketing metrics: Brand, funnel, and capability

    [29:09] - Evolving agency role and value post-integration

    [31:16] - Final advice to industry leaders and PE firms

    Follow our Guest Frederik Klaarenbeek on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frederik-klaarenbeek/
    • Email address: frederik@klareenbeek.com
    • Company (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/klaarenbeek-advisory

    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez...

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    33 Min.
  • From Unicorns to Sustainable Growth: Startup Marketing Lessons for Legacy Energy Brands
    Jul 29 2025

    How can established energy brands adopt the agility and innovation of startups to scale sustainably and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry?

    In Episode 8 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez and guest Jenny Salinas, Chief Marketing Officer at FutureScaleX & former Vice President, Marketing of S&P Global, explore how established energy brands can adopt the agility and innovation of startups. They discuss how embracing a startup mindset can help these companies scale effectively, stay competitive in the ever-evolving energy sector, and drive sustainable growth through customer-focused strategies and cross-functional collaboration.

    With more than 25 years of experience in marketing across both large enterprises and startups, Jenny brings a wealth of knowledge on how established energy companies can embrace innovation and scale more effectively. She discusses how energy brands can adopt a more agile, customer-focused approach and break down the silos. Jenny also shares her thoughts on how these companies can balance sustainability and innovation while staying ahead in a fast-paced market.

    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • Key startup lessons that can benefit established energy brands
    • How large companies can adopt a more agile and innovative mindset
    • The importance of cross-functional collaboration in driving growth
    • The role of data and technology in scaling energy companies
    • How marketing and product strategy are evolving in the energy sector

    Episode Highlights:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [00:52] - Introduction of podcast and guest Jenny Salinas

    [04:15] - The energy innovation landscape

    [07:02] - Defining sustainable growth

    [09:04] - Transition from large companies to startups

    [13:40] - Lessons from large enterprises

    [19:06] - Challenges of large enterprises

    [22:33] - Patience in leadership

    [24:05] - Startup mindset

    [28:26] - Positioning for investment

    [31:12] - Innovative marketing growth strategy

    [34:13] - Marketing for startups vs. enterprises

    [37:48] - Career advice for marketers

    [42:44] - Jenny’s elevator pitch for FutureScaleX

    Follow our Guest Jenny Salinas on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennysalinas/
    • X: https://x.com/jennyrsalinas

    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dasprez-3a949a/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arnaud.dasprez
    • Instagram:
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    45 Min.
  • The Truth About Silos: How to Achieve True Sales & Marketing Alignment
    Jun 18 2025

    Are misaligned teams holding your company back from growth? Can aligning marketing, sales, and customer service become the key to success?

    In Episode 7 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez and Guest Michel Privé, a sales leadership expert who currently serves as the Outsourced VP of Sales at Sales Xceleration® & at SLIC Texas, explore how aligning key areas into a cohesive growth engine can transform a company’s performance, improve client relationships, and drive consistent revenue growth.

    Bringing over 25 years of experience in international sales leadership, Michel discusses how energy and industrial companies can break down the silos between marketing, sales, and customer service to create a seamless growth engine. He shares valuable insights on how businesses can enhance their revenue generation and drive long-term success through alignment.

    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • Why aligning marketing, sales, and customer service is essential for growth.
    • Practical steps to build a unified growth engine.
    • The role of the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) in driving alignment.
    • How data-driven insights can optimize revenue generation.
    • Tips for startups and mid-market companies to scale efficiently.

    Episode Highlights:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [01:06] - Introduction of podcast and guest Michel Privé

    [03:12] - What should a CRO focus on to drive growth?

    [05:32] - Alignment in energy and industrial sectors

    [09:28] - Practical steps to improve alignment

    [13:09] - Data-driven insights and the 80/20 rule

    [15:59] - The importance of rebranding and aligning KPIs

    [17:46] - Leveraging customer service to improve sales

    [20:24] - Real-world misalignments causing major issues

    [23:56] - Lessons from ERP failures and customer experience

    [28:14] - Startup tips for building a growth engine from the beginning

    [31:16] - Mid-market growth tips and assessing your ROI

    [34:54] - Key strategies to scale a business

    [37:48] - The importance of ongoing assessment

    [40:28] - Final thoughts on optimizing revenue generation

    Follow our Guest Michel Privé on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michel-priv%C3%A9

    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dasprez-3a949a/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arnaud.dasprez
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arnauddasprez/

    Follow the Podcast:

    • Follow on LinkedIn:
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    44 Min.
  • Beyond Ouija Boards: Using AI Tools to Summon Better Brand Experiences
    Jun 3 2025

    Are we at risk of getting lost in the hype of AI, or can it really drive results in B2B marketing? And how do international perspectives shape our approach?

    In Episode 6 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez and global AI strategist Marco Luciano, Head of the AI Studio at BBN, explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of B2B marketing, particularly in the energy and industrial sectors. They discuss key challenges and opportunities, including AI-powered search, UX design, SEO strategy, and AI governance, all with a focus on achieving real-world business results.

    Marco Luciano, an Italian based in Germany, leads a globally distributed team focused on creating advanced AI solutions for B2B marketing and sales. His work spans search innovation, interface design, and scalable AI governance. At BBN, he guides companies through the complexities of adopting AI with a strong focus on usability, security, and real business outcomes.

    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • How global companies are using AI to enhance customer and internal experiences
    • Real-world use cases of AI search and maintenance support in industrial settings
    • Why UX design must evolve with AI capabilities in mind
    • The impact of AI on SEO, brand visibility, and marketing sustainability
    • How to build and budget for your own team of AI agents

    Episode Highlights:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [01:07] - Introduction of podcast and guest Marco Luciano

    [04:16] - AI, mythology, and global perspectives

    [05:51] - Marco’s background and global approach to B2B AI

    [08:01] - Where AI is making the biggest impact in B2B marketing

    [09:32] - Real use case: AI-powered search and remote maintenance

    [10:09] - Why traditional chatbots failed & how to fix the experience

    [13:58] - Should you name your AI? Branding bots with personality

    [16:22] - AI, SEO, and getting found online today

    [25:57] - How AI is changing agency-client relationships

    [28:19] - Privacy, compliance, & the cost of building internal AI platforms

    [35:21] - Budgeting AI like a new hire: a practical starting point

    [38:27] - Final thoughts and where to find Marco online

    Follow our Guest Marco Luciano on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mluciano/

    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dasprez-3a949a/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arnaud.dasprez
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arnauddasprez/

    Follow the Podcast:

    • Follow on LinkedIn:
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    41 Min.
  • Bots in Your Pipeline: Using AI to Generate Real, Relevant Demand
    May 20 2025

    Are there any humans left on the Internet, or is it all bots? And how can AI tools help energy marketers reach the right targets?

    In Episode 5 of The HEX-Files Energy Marketing Podcast, Host Arnaud Dasprez and AI pioneer Nick Caruso, Chief Revenue Officer and Co-Founder at KnowledgeNet.ai, explore how the rise of bots and artificial intelligence are transforming B2B marketing — particularly in the energy and industrial sectors. They discuss key challenges and opportunities, including bot traffic, lead quality, content strategy and pipeline visibility, all with a focus on achieving real-world business results.

    Nick Caruso has been working in the AI and technology space for nearly three decades. Starting with large-scale government and enterprise projects, he now helps companies of all sizes put AI to work in a way that supports business growth. At KnowledgeNet.ai, he leads revenue strategy and works closely with sales and marketing teams to help them use automation, data, and smart targeting to generate better leads and close more deals.

    In this episode, expect to learn:

    • What to consider when filtering bot vs. human traffic
    • Why companies need a real plan before adopting AI tools
    • How AI helps personalize outreach and improve sales productivity
    • Common risks when using AI without a clear strategy
    • How to measure marketing performance in a changing landscape

    Episode Highlights:

    [00:00] - Teaser

    [00:53] - Introduction of podcast and guest Nick Caruso

    [02:31] - What KnowledgeNet.ai does and who it helps

    [04:44] - Human vs Bot traffic: What it means for marketers

    [08:11] - Understanding bots like ChatGPT as new visitors

    [11:00] - The risks of AI implementation without a strategy

    [14:18] - AI's Role in targeting and customization

    [17:34] - Smart ways to target prospects and tailor outreach

    [21:46] - What makes content stand out when everyone’s automating

    [25:03] - Proposal writing and sales pipeline insights

    [30:36] - Key KPIs: MQL to SQL conversion and account engagement

    [34:53] - Building brand awareness in a world of search and AI

    [36:22] - Final advice and getting started with AI

    Follow our Guest Nick Caruso on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ncaruso/

    Follow Host Arnaud Dasprez on:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dasprez-3a949a/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arnaud.dasprez
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arnauddasprez/

    Follow the Podcast:

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    38 Min.