E35: Building a Multi-Product Platform with Seismic’s CRO, Hayden Stafford
- 0.5
- 1
- 1.25
- 1.5
- 1.75
- 2
DESCRIPTION
In this episode, Kyle Norton sits down with Hayden Stafford, President and CRO at Seismic, to unpack what it really takes to transform a company from a single-product business into a true multi-product platform. Drawing from his experience leading global teams at Microsoft and now steering Seismic toward half a billion in ARR, Hayden shares the go-to-market, organizational, and cultural changes required to make the shift. From overhauling sales motions and enablement to building a value consulting function and rethinking partnerships, Hayden offers a candid look at the challenges and breakthroughs behind Seismic’s platform evolution.
Thanks for tuning in! New episodes of The Revenue Leadership Podcast drop every Wednesday.
Don’t miss GTM2025 — the only B2B tech conference exclusively for GTM executives. Elevate your 2026 strategy and join us from September 23 to 25 in Washington, D.C. Use code TOPLINE for 10% off your GA ticket.
Stay ahead with the latest industry developments and emerging go-to-market trends with Topline Newsletter by Asad Zaman. Subscribe today.
Tune into Topline Podcast, the #1 podcast for founders, operators, and investors in B2B tech hosted by Sam Jacobs, AJ Bruno, and Asad Zaman.
You’re invited! Join the free Topline Slack channel to connect with 600+ revenue leaders, share insights, and keep the conversation going beyond the podcast!
Key Moments:
(00:00) Introduction
(03:06) Understanding the Transition from Product to Platform
(05:47) Seismic's Evolution: From Content Automation to Comprehensive Platform
(09:03) The Role of Enablement in Sales Success
(11:55) Strategic Decisions: Joining Seismic and Transforming the Company
(14:53) Navigating the Go-to-Market Strategy for Multi-Product Companies
(17:55) Building a Strong Ecosystem for Platform Success
(20:59) Partner Selection and Metrics for Success
(23:56) Final Thoughts on Platform Strategy and Future Directions
(40:20) Navigating Pricing and Business Value
(45:04) The Importance of Value Continuum
(47:55) Transitioning to Platform Positioning
(55:01) Engaging with CROs and Sales Leaders
(01:00:57) Common Pitfalls in Platform Transformation
(01:08:47) Lessons from Past Experiences