Revolutionizing Email Marketing with AI: A Conversation with Erica Salm Rench, COO of Rasa.io

I had the pleasure of interviewing Erica Salm Rench, the COO of rasa.io. After working in enrollment management, where she focused on recruitment strategy and marketing, Erica managed a team of online marketers at the largest digital marketing company in the Gulf South. There, she supported the web development, SEO, online advertising, and content marketing teams in executing strategies that elevated organizations, helping them stand out amidst the chaos of the online marketplace. Now, as the COO at rasa.io, she combines her passion for AI, digital marketing technology, and email to provide valuable support to the vibrant community of rasa.io customers.

What motivated you to launch your startup?

The motivation to launch our startup stemmed from recognizing that the realm of email was ripe for disruption through the infusion of AI. Despite its enduring effectiveness, email required innovation. By leveraging real behavioral insights to personalize the content of each email without extensive intervention from marketers, we are fundamentally revolutionizing the way people craft and send email newsletters.

What excites you about what you’re building?

The exciting aspect of our endeavor is that anyone, regardless of industry or product niche, can create a newsletter. Consistent communication is paramount. With rasa.io, witnessing our growth and the engagement of over 600 organizations on our platform — ranging from agencies and publishers to media companies and nonprofits like the American Marketing Association — validates the significance of personalizing the email experience.

What has been the most significant challenge in growing your startup?

The most formidable challenge during our startup’s growth journey was the acceptance of AI. Prior to the groundbreaking advancement catalyzed by the ChatGPT phenomenon, the world was hesitant to embrace AI tools fully. People needed guidance in navigating the AI landscape. However, recent developments have encouraged a gradual integration of AI into various business processes.

What are your future plans for your startup?

Apart from our recent integration with ChatGPT, which empowers us with generative AI capabilities, we eagerly anticipate further advancements in generative AI. Additionally, we are committed to enhancing our recommendation algorithm and building upon it to provide even more value to our users.

If you had to share a “words of wisdom” with a Founder about to start their own startup, what would they be?

Firstly, prioritize your clients. This may seem obvious, but it involves honing in on your niche. At rasa.io, we began with Associations, establishing credibility and authority in that space. With this momentum, you can gradually expand to other sub-audiences that align well with your niche, after you’ve established a foundation of trust within your initial market.

Secondly, take the leap. At rasa.io, we excel by learning through action and not being daunted by a blank canvas. While there may be instances where stepping back is necessary to leap forward, remember that learning is an ongoing process throughout the journey.

How can our readers follow you on social media?

You can catch us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin @rasa.io or @rasa_io

This was very insightful. Thank you so much for joining us!