What is customer success actually and where is it headed?
I sat down with Pablo Bernal, former product leader at Microsoft, to talk about the shift from reactive support to proactive services, and how AI is reshaping the way we align technology with real customer goals.
We also got into Pablo’s sabbatical, career transitions, and what the future of the industry might look like with AI at its disposal.
Client work is only half the business. The other half? Contracts and rates.
After working with hundreds of consultants, I realized that the ones who last aren't just talented. They know how to run the business side too. They know what agreements they make and how they set their rates.
And so, we made a special podcast episode for it — all the common questions I get asked about contracts and rates.
What does creativity have to do with consulting?
Paige Darby and I sat down with Susie deVille to talk about how tapping into intrinsic energy can change the way we lead, collaborate, and grow.
We also got into Susie’s leap into indie consulting, the Kolbe assessment, and why adding play to your process actually sharpens performance.
Here's why you should treat your indie practice like a startup.
I sat down with Pedro Girardi to talk about his journey from BCG and Delivery Hero to independent consulting—and the resilience it takes to make that leap.
We got into the value of strong networks, co-working spaces, and staying grounded through big transitions.
What’s a day in the life of a fractional CRO like?
I sat down with Kristi Gaudioso to talk about her move from Microsoft to indie leadership—and what it takes to drive revenue without being full-time.
We covered sales strategy, adaptability, and why community and collaboration matter more than ever in the fractional world.
Hey—I’m Lauren Wambold Patel, and this is The 2x2 Podcast.
If you’re an independent consultant, strategist, or fractional exec who’s serious about building your business—not just picking up gigs—this channel is for you.
I’ve built an eight-figure consulting firm from the ground up. No agency model. No corporate safety net. Just the real work of building something sustainable, scalable, and entirely my own.
Every week, I bring you deep conversations with top independent consultants—people who’ve gone from big firms or executive roles to building successful businesses on their own terms.
We talk about how they:
This isn’t a motivational channel.
This is the actual playbook—built for deep thinkers, expert operators, and people who want more autonomy and more control.
So if you’re ready to move your consulting business up and to the right, hit subscribe and dive in.
