Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, the conversation focused on the fast-changing world of software builds and how AI is transforming the SaaS landscape. The discussion explored how Hermetiq, co-founded by CEO Jake Newfield, is addressing a new bottleneck for engineering teams—not code creation, but the complexities of compiling, testing, and deploying at scale.

One concept discussed was the need for deeper observability and intelligence around Bazel builds, leading Hermetiq to develop a "Datadog for Bazel" platform that helps developers identify and fix build issues efficiently. With major AI labs already leveraging this technology, the episode highlights the rapidly expanding demand for smarter build infrastructure.

Several points were raised around early-stage SaaS company building, from fundraising and pricing challenges to the importance of conference outreach and direct engagement. Listen in for insights on navigating growth in a market where innovation moves at lightning speed.

Show Notes:

00:00 Hermetic automates software build process

04:15 Solving build issues for companies

06:20 Starting up with direct outreach

10:06 Big AI Lab Using Hermetiq

12:56 Wrapping up with contact info

Links:

SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/hermetiq-raises-2-2m-seed/

Jake Newfield's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakenewfield/

Hermetiq's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hermetiq/

Hermetiq's Website: https://www.hermetiq.com/

To learn more about Ben check out the links below:

Subscribe to Ben’s daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Subscribe to Ben’s SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page

SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/

Join Ben’s SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout

Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray