Global E-Commerce Tech Talks

In this insightful new installment of the Global e-Commerce Leaders Podcast, host Michael LeBlanc reconnects with Jim Okamura, Co-Founder of the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum (GELF), to discuss the future of global retail, the evolving mission of GELF, and how the community is responding to today's rapidly changing international marketplace. They begin by reflecting on the legacy of the late Kent Allen, a fellow GELF Co-Founder whose passing deeply impacted the organization and the broader e-commerce sector. Jim shares stories of Kent's passion for connecting people and forging solutions, highlighting how Kent's genuine commitment to global growth laid the groundwork for GELF's unique blend of community and expertise.Throughout the conversation, Jim explains the necessity of reimagining GELF's programming and events calendar to address the latest complexities in worldwide commerce. From evolving trade regulations and tariffs to the shifting needs of both established and emerging brands, he stresses the importance of gathering global retail leaders more frequently to tackle pressing concerns in real time. This rethinking involves a deeper focus on segmentation—recognizing that seasoned international brands need more advanced strategies, while newcomers require foundational guidance on cross-border logistics, market entry, and localized marketing.Listeners will learn about planned workshops, digital channels, and in-person meetups designed to foster constructive dialogue and knowledge sharing. Jim previews how GELF aims to partner with complementary associations—such as those in logistics, language translation, and supply chain—to further expand the ecosystem of global practitioners. By diving into topics like cross-border wholesaling and franchising, along with direct-to-consumer e-commerce, GELF is poised to address a full spectrum of global commerce opportunities.Finally, Michael and Jim look ahead, encouraging community members—ranging from enterprise veterans to rising DTC players—to share feedback, collaborate on new initiatives, and join a reinvigorated conversation about global retail expansion. The episode concludes with a heartfelt dedication to Kent Allen's memory, reminding listeners of the spirit of connection and innovation that underpins the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum. Whether you're a seasoned multinational brand or exploring your first international venture, this episode provides invaluable insights and a roadmap for thriving in the ever-evolving world of cross-border commerce.Support the GoFundMe for Kent Allen's memorial bench here:https://www.gofundme.com/f/memorial-bench-for-kent-at-golden-gate-park   Presented by StreamCommerce, a full-service consultancy that ideates, strategizes, and executes growth marketing solutions for their clients. They partner with people and brands they believe in, to create websites that are deeply committed to the user experience and that drive omnichannel digital transformation. StreamCommerce increases your bottom line sustainably by delivering a customer experience that's true to your brand. Their team of industry experts allows them to make informed and strategic decisions quickly. As the world changes, we listen, and they deliver world-class e-commerce websites on Shopify Plus.

My special guest on this episode is Dan Brewster, the Senior Vice President of Marketing for ESW. ESW empowers the world's best-loved retailers and brands to make global shopping better, safer, simpler and faster end-to-end. Dan shares timely insights into the evolution of cross-border commerce and the transition to a multi-local solution. Stay tuned as we explore the impact of data, AI, and global trends on e-commerce and international retail.This podcast is brought to you by Stream Commerce. Get ready for the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum L.A. 2024, February 22nd.  Learn more here.  About DanDan is now the SVP of Marketing for ESW, the leader in global DTC eCommerce solutions. ESW provides an enterprise eCommerce platform, domestic and cross-border logistics, optimized payments, full-service business operations and marketing services for retail brands. Joining ESW as a part of their acquisition of Scalefast, Dan was integral to managing the merger of marketing operations and branding. He has built an international team of demand generation and content marketing experts who collaborate with sales to execute highly targeted ABM campaigns, content marketing and PR for an organization that is now more than 1000 strong, with a record pipeline. He joined Scalefast after serving as SVP Marketing & Digital Commerce for contemporary women's apparel brand Planet Blue and its private label Blue Life. Dan led integrated marketing and the digital transformation of the brand's cross-channel sales and operations. He was instrumental in Planet Blue's deployment of Klarna in its retail stores, the first brick and mortar application of buy now pay later technology. Before joining Planet Blue, he was the principal of Marketing Endeavors Consulting, bringing close to three decades of integrated marketing experience to a portfolio of CPG, retail, and technology clients. His background includes sports event marketing and production, B2B lead gen and corporate marketing, and management of two performance marketing agencies.While at Onestop Internet and eBay Enterprise, he leveraged a multifaceted skill set in leading client services, strategy, digital marketing, and business development roles for SaaS-based e-commerce solutions delivering hundreds of millions in annual retail sales for global brands.He has served in leading marketing roles for the Phoenix Coyotes, Los Angeles Dodgers, and USC Trojans, leading the early development of online ticketing and merchandise sales platforms while executing all sponsor activation, advertising, loyalty programs, promotions, and in-venue entertainment.He has won national recognition from the Promotion Marketing Association for Hispanic marketing programs at the Dodgers and is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and events. He has also served as an adjunct instructor for the University of San Francisco's School of Sports Management. He is a graduate of the University of Southern California (BA '93; MBA '02).Specialties include account based marketing, content marketing, consumer behavior, marketing analytics, event production, and emerging cross-channel retail technologies and strategies. About MichaelMichael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel! 

In this episode, we meet the force of nature, Jenna Flateman Posner, just two months into her new gig with innovative home products brand, wholesaler and direct-to-consumer retailer Solo Brands. We cover a lot of ground in this interview, not unlike what Jenna did as a University athlete and member of the USA Women's Sevens rugby team.Hear more about how Solo Brands has dedicated country sites, distribution in Canada and Europe, and the best days. Learn how Jenna prioritized technology investment with a mind to global reach and presence. Thanks to Stream Commerce for their support in making this episode happen.Learn more about GELF L.A. 2024About JennaAs the Chief Digital Officer at Solo Brands, I lead the strategy and execution of digital initiatives across our portfolio of direct-to-consumer brands. With over 15 years of experience in the retail and technology sectors, I have a track record of driving growth, innovation, and customer loyalty through digital channels and platforms.My core competencies include tech strategy, innovation, customer relationship management, online marketing, and strategic partnerships. I leverage my entrepreneurial mindset and industry expertise to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities, optimize operational efficiency, and foster cross-functional collaboration. My mission is to deliver exceptional digital experiences that enhance the value proposition and competitive advantage of Solo Brands and its partners. About MichaelMichael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

In this episode, I welcome back to the podcast  Sophie Abrahamsson, President of Americas @ Bambuser.  With Sophie is Julian Guevara, Senior Vice President of Direct to Consumer with What Goes Around Comes Around.  I had the opportunity to visit Julian's store in SoHo recently and was super impressed by the business, their live-streaming studio and the team behind this innovative retailer.  One quick note: I had a mic gremlin early in the interview with Shopie's mic, but I resolved it quickly for the majority of our time together. Let's listen in now!Thanks to Stream Commerce for their support in making this episode happen. About SophieEducation: Bachelors Degree in Media & Communications from Università degli Studi di Firenze.Experience:  +10yr of international experience from e-commerce and marketing within retail. Marketing manager for LUISAVIAROMA, Head of Digital for & Other Stories and various business development positions at H&M group. About KentI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance. Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and ExpressionAbout JimJim Okamura is Partner with McMillan Doolittle - The Retail Experts. Jim has more than 25 years of consulting experience focused on the retail industry, including 20+ years in digital transformation strategies for retailers, brands and retail-related companies. Specializations include cross-border & global ecommerce and organization design for digital transformations. Through our global alliance, Ebeltoft Group, we have deep retail expertise in more than 20 countries.Clients include Wahl Clipper, Gap, adidas, Hunter Fan, Bassett Furniture, Giant Eagle, Federated Coop, Harley-Davidson, Baccarat, DSW, Tractor Supply Co., MasterCard, Verizon Wireless, Neiman Marcus, Navy Exchange, Lands' End, Microsoft, The Body Shop International, L Brands, Timberland, Media Markt, Lowe's Companies, Pep Boys, Crate and Barrel, Loyalty One, VISA, and Cadillac Fairview.Jim is a Co-founder of the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum, a community and conference series focused on global and cross-border ecommerce. Digital Retail Globalization, such as riding China's ecommerce growth wave, is important for brands, retailers and distribution partners of all sizes.Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

Greetings and welcome to Season Three of the Global eCommerce Leaders #podcast, picking up from the New York edition of the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum, where I met and chatted with some of the most interesting global commerce leaders in the world live in person in the Stream Commerce podcast studio, gathered as part of the thriving GELF community.This season is brought to you by Stream Commerce, a full-service consultancy that ideates, strategizes, and executes growth marketing solutions for our clients. They partner with people and brands they believe in to create websites that are deeply committed to the user experience and drive omnichannel digital transformation. As the world changes, they listen, and they deliver world-class e-commerce websites on Shopify Plus.In this episode kicking us off for our third season, GELF co-founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura take us through what they heard on the stage and in the hallways of GELF NYC 2023 and get us ready for GELF LA, February 22, 2024.  About KentI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance. Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and ExpressionAbout JimJim Okamura is Partner with McMillan Doolittle - The Retail Experts. Jim has more than 25 years of consulting experience focused on the retail industry, including 20+ years in digital transformation strategies for retailers, brands and retail-related companies. Specializations include cross-border & global ecommerce and organization design for digital transformations. Through our global alliance, Ebeltoft Group, we have deep retail expertise in more than 20 countries.Clients include Wahl Clipper, Gap, adidas, Hunter Fan, Bassett Furniture, Giant Eagle, Federated Coop, Harley-Davidson, Baccarat, DSW, Tractor Supply Co., MasterCard, Verizon Wireless, Neiman Marcus, Navy Exchange, Lands' End, Microsoft, The Body Shop International, L Brands, Timberland, Media Markt, Lowe's Companies, Pep Boys, Crate and Barrel, Loyalty One, VISA, and Cadillac Fairview.Jim is a Co-founder of the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum, a community and conference series focused on global and cross-border ecommerce. Digital Retail Globalization, such as riding China's ecommerce growth wave, is important for brands, retailers and distribution partners of all sizes.Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

On Thursday October 12th, the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) community will be back in New York City live and in-person for another full day of learning, sharing and networking. Join global ecommerce leaders from leading DTC and retail brands for keynotes, breakout sessions, peer/executive discussions/meetups and networking as we return to Convene Midtown Westin October! In this episode, GELF co-founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura give us an exclusive preview of the fantastic speakers and thought leadership that is part of the agenda for the GELF NYC 2023 forum.  I'll be there in the StreamCommerce podcasting studio chatting with the key industry players that bring this community alive!Are you a retail ecommerce leader interested in speaking at GELF NYC 2023 on Thursday, October 12th? If so, please contact the GELF producers by emailing speak@globalecommerce.coAs always, GELF NYC 2023 is a retailer/DTC brand-only, sponsor-only event. If you are a cross-border solution provider, an ecommerce platform or marketplace operator, software company, agency, data aggregator, logistics provider or other global ecommerce solution or service provider interested in sponsoring and attending GELF NYC '23, we would love to have you join us as a sponsor. Please contact sponsor@globalecommerce.co About KentI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance. Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and ExpressionAbout JimJim Okamura is Partner with McMillan Doolittle - The Retail Experts. Jim has more than 25 years of consulting experience focused on the retail industry, including 20+ years in digital transformation strategies for retailers, brands and retail-related companies. Specializations include cross-border & global ecommerce and organization design for digital transformations. Through our global alliance, Ebeltoft Group, we have deep retail expertise in more than 20 countries.Clients include Wahl Clipper, Gap, adidas, Hunter Fan, Bassett Furniture, Giant Eagle, Federated Coop, Harley-Davidson, Baccarat, DSW, Tractor Supply Co., MasterCard, Verizon Wireless, Neiman Marcus, Navy Exchange, Lands' End, Microsoft, The Body Shop International, L Brands, Timberland, Media Markt, Lowe's Companies, Pep Boys, Crate and Barrel, Loyalty One, VISA, and Cadillac Fairview.Jim is a Co-founder of the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum, a community and conference series focused on global and cross-border ecommerce. Digital Retail Globalization, such as riding China's ecommerce growth wave, is important for brands, retailers and distribution partners of all sizes.Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the Los Angeles Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in early 2023. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service Shopify Plus eCommerce agency delivering world-class Shopify Plus digital storefronts & growth marketing solutions. Stream Commerce can help you navigate the new Markets, Markets Pro and Global-e international capabilities native to Shopify and work hand-in-hand to help you drive profitable global sales.And if you have questions about whether or not your international Klaviyo email marketing and paid performance marketing with Meta and Google is working as hard as you are, call the experts at Stream Commerce; they can help you maximize your return.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum LA 2023 offered retail professionals strategic insights and actionable takeaways about how industry leaders are tackling their top Global DTC and cross-border eCommerce challenges – and how they are successfully making a case for investing in global retail growth. Jessica Quick & Denise Dente, Co-Founders and Managing Principals at Buzz Beauté join me on the podcast and we discuss the global beauty industry and winning strategies for brands and retailers alike.   Here is a link to Jessica and Denise's great beauty podcast. If you liked this podcast, you can follow it on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google, the Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and review with a five-star rating and be sure and recommend us to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.   Be sure and block off your calendar for the next GELF event in New York City on October 12, 2023!   I'm your host Michael LeBlanc, strategic retail advisor, keynote speaker and podcaster, and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn. About Jessica Quick & Denise DenteDenise

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the Los Angeles Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in early 2023. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service Shopify Plus eCommerce agency delivering world-class Shopify Plus digital storefronts & growth marketing solutions. Stream Commerce can help you navigate the new Markets, Markets Pro and Global-e international capabilities native to Shopify and work hand-in-hand to help you drive profitable global sales.And if you have questions about whether or not your international Klaviyo email marketing and paid performance marketing with Meta and Google is working as hard as you are, call the experts at Stream Commerce; they can help you maximize your return.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum LA 2023 offered retail professionals strategic insights and actionable takeaways about how industry leaders are tackling their top Global DTC and cross-border eCommerce challenges – and how they are successfully making a case for investing in global retail growth. Nisha Oza returns to the podcast on this episode and delivers a social media and influencer management masterclass.  Now expanding her expertise beyond fashion and into wellness and better living internationally with KOS, a plant-based nutrition brand, Nisha breaks down the tradecraft of influencer marketing and shares the passion she brings to her craft. If you liked this podcast, you can follow it on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google, the Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and review with a five-star rating and be sure and recommend us to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.   Be sure and block off your calendar for the next GELF event in New York City on October 12, 2023!   I'm your host Michael LeBlanc, strategic retail advisor, keynote speaker and podcaster, and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn. About NishaPassionate, well-connected, and fashion-obsessed PR & influencer relations expert experienced in both new & traditional media, with proven track record of growing digital brand & social media presence, managing VIP relationships, securing top-notch press placements, & driving e-commerce sales. Stellar leadership, interpersonal, communication, written, project management, & content creation skills. Well-versed in both the creative & analytical sides of fashion.About MichaelMichael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. 

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the Los Angeles Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in early 2023. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service Shopify Plus eCommerce agency delivering world-class Shopify Plus digital storefronts & growth marketing solutions. Stream Commerce can help you navigate the new Markets, Markets Pro and Global-e international capabilities native to Shopify and work hand-in-hand to help you drive profitable global sales.And if you have questions about whether or not your international Klaviyo email marketing and paid performance marketing with Meta and Google is working as hard as you are, call the experts at Stream Commerce; they can help you maximize your return.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum LA 2023 offered retail professionals strategic insights and actionable takeaways about how industry leaders are tackling their top Global DTC and cross-border eCommerce challenges – and how they are successfully making a case for investing in global retail growth. In this episode, we meet Jon Safran, Chief Executive Officer, KEH Camera, a leading recommerce company and the World's Largest Pre-Owned Camera Dealer. They have a constantly replenished inventory of over 65,000 items in stock and have had a stellar customer service reputation since 1979.If you liked this podcast, you can follow it on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google, the Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and review with a five-star rating and be sure and recommend us to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.   Be sure and block off your calendar for the next GELF event in New York City on October 12, 2023!   I'm your host Michael LeBlanc, strategic retail advisor, keynote speaker and podcaster, and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn. About JonEnergetic business leader with a demonstrated history of success in the Re-Commerce, Consumer Products, Technology, and Diversified Industrial market segments. Focused on driving profitable growth organically through new product development / innovation, complimented by strategic acquisitions. Builds aligned and accountable teams, backed by scalable and sustainable processes. Passionate about delivering differentiated value to the customer. Strong ability to develop strategy and ensure that it gets executed across the organization.Skillset includes Cross-Functional Team Leadership, Marketing & Sales Management, New Product Development & Commercialization, Financial and P&L Management, Strategic Planning, Global Business Development, and Productivity & Process Development.About MichaelMichael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. 

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the Los Angeles Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in early 2023. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service Shopify Plus eCommerce agency delivering world-class Shopify Plus digital storefronts & growth marketing solutions. Stream Commerce can help you navigate the new Markets, Markets Pro and Global-e international capabilities native to Shopify and work hand-in-hand to help you drive profitable global sales.And if you have questions about whether or not your international Klaviyo email marketing and paid performance marketing with Meta and Google is working as hard as you are, call the experts at Stream Commerce; they can help you maximize your return.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum LA 2023 offered retail professionals strategic insights and actionable takeaways about how industry leaders are tackling their top Global DTC and cross-border eCommerce challenges – and how they are successfully making a case for investing in global retail growth. In this episode, we meet Catherine Hoffman Seaton, Vice President of Marketing at Windsor Fashions & Caroline Nuckolls, Head of Sales - Americas at Bambuser If you liked this podcast, you can follow it on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google, the Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and review with a five-star rating and be sure and recommend us to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.   Be sure and block off your calendar for the next GELF event in New York City on October 12, 2023!   I'm your host Michael LeBlanc, strategic retail advisor, keynote speaker and podcaster, and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn. About CatherineAs head of the global marketing team at Windsor, my focus is on engaging and inspiring customers across all touch points to drive brand awareness and loyalty. This includes leading all strategy, budget, operations and team across:-Performance Marketing (seo, sem, pla, display, paid social, affiliate)-Customer Marketing (crm, loyalty, email, sms)-Community Marketing (owned social, influencer, blog)-Brand Marketing (pr, partnerships)-Retail Marketing (in store marketing, local marketing, mall marketing) -Creative Graphic Design and Copy-Windsor LiveWith over 20 years experience in leading data driven customer centric marketing teams for multichannel retailers, I have held roles at brands such as Gap, Harry & David, Harbor Freight Tools, HSNi, Torrid and Windsor. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona and my MBA from Dominican College and currently reside in southern California where I enjoy the year round sunshine.About MichaelMichael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the Los Angeles Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in early 2023. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service Shopify Plus eCommerce agency delivering world-class Shopify Plus digital storefronts & growth marketing solutions. Stream Commerce can help you navigate the new Markets, Markets Pro and Global-e international capabilities native to Shopify and work hand-in-hand to help you drive profitable global sales.And if you have questions about whether or not your international Klaviyo email marketing and paid performance marketing with Meta and Google is working as hard as you are, call the experts at Stream Commerce; they can help you maximize your return.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum LA 2023 offered retail professionals strategic insights and actionable takeaways about how industry leaders are tackling their top Global DTC and cross-border eCommerce challenges – and how they are successfully making a case for investing in global retail growth. In this episode, we meet Benjamin Cohen, Co-founder & COO at GlopalIf you liked this podcast, you can follow it on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google, the Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and review with a five-star rating and be sure and recommend us to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.   Be sure and block off your calendar for the next GELF event in New York City on October 12, 2023!   I'm your host Michael LeBlanc, strategic retail advisor, keynote speaker and podcaster, and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn. About BenjaminPassionate entrepreneur. Co-Founder & Board member at WebInterpret, the leading international e-commerce software for Marketplaces.Co-Founder & COO at Glopal, the leading international e-commerce software for Online Stores.We help e-merchants to sell efficiently worldwide.Dozens of thousands merchants are using our solutions to increase their international sales.We are a team of 250 Cross Border trade experts and we operate in 7 countries on 3 continents.Don't hesitate to contact me to talk about e-commerce, SaaS, business models, operations that scale, sailing, skiing, flying, ...About MichaelMichael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the Los Angeles Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in early 2023. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service Shopify Plus eCommerce agency delivering world-class Shopify Plus digital storefronts & growth marketing solutions. Stream Commerce can help you navigate the new Markets, Markets Pro and Global-e international capabilities native to Shopify and work hand-in-hand to help you drive profitable global sales.And if you have questions about whether or not your international Klaviyo email marketing and paid performance marketing with Meta and Google is working as hard as you are, call the experts at Stream Commerce; they can help you maximize your return.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum LA 2023 offered retail professionals strategic insights and actionable takeaways about how industry leaders are tackling their top Global DTC and cross-border eCommerce challenges – and how they are successfully making a case for investing in global retail growth. In this episode, we meet Michael Relich, Co-CEO, Pacsun and Matthew Merrilees: CEO, North America, Global-e. If you liked this podcast, you can follow it on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google, the Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and review with a five-star rating and be sure and recommend us to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.   Be sure and block off your calendar for the next GELF event in New York City on October 12, 2023!   I'm your host Michael LeBlanc, strategic retail advisor, keynote speaker and podcaster, and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn. About MichaelBusiness Leadership Experience in Highly Complex Global Environments (Retail, Wholesale & Licensing), Strong Technical and Digital Skills 20-year executive career developing high-performing organizations, building infrastructures, strengthening operations and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to drive business transformation and position companies for scalable and profitable growth in both domestic and international markets. Known for approachable leadership style and ability to create and sell a compelling vision, engage individuals at all levels and foster a culture rooted in collaboration, operational excellence and data-driven decision making. Cross-functional executive experience with a leadership background and deep expertise in: Strategic Planning / Omnichannel Retailing / E-Commerce / Retail & Supply Chain Operations / Sales & Marketing / Business Process, Information Technology & Data / Organizational Design & Development / Change Management Board, Investor & Cross-Cultural Business Relations (w/ conversational Mandarin proficiency)About MatthewGlobal-e is the leading provider of comprehensive cross-border solutions and we continue to make significant investments into the North America market! Led by a team of experienced executives with broad and diverse expertise, we provide a unique technology-based, end-to-end solution for online merchants to handle all their cross-border needs.As Chief Executive Officer, I am responsible for all aspects of the country's International e-commerce business. I travel often to meet and learn from team members and employees around the country, giving my time and attention to ensure everyone understands the critical role they play and value they bring to delivering best-in-class service to our customers – locally and internationally. My focus is to ensure we are investing in our people and putting a hyper focus on our conversion to ensure the continued growth and quality for our customers.Through a simple single integration we remove all friction points to sell globally. Coupled with our strong analytics and international market insights, we deliver huge sales uplift to our clients, increase customer satisfaction and most importantly boost conversion.Simply “Go Global. Be Local.”About MichaelMichael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus  Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.    You can learn more about Michael   here  or on     LinkedIn. Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue,  his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!         

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking. Let's listen in now!On this episode we meet Deborah Weinswig 韋葆蘭 CEO & Founder at Coresight Research, who I last spoke to along with Steve Dennis on the Remarkable Retail #podcastIf you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com. Check out the upcoming - this week -  GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.  The program theme for GELF LA 2023 is Scaling Customer Engagement Globally. GELF speakers will consistently deliver an energetic and engaging combination of global eCommerce strategy, cross-border tactics, and best practices. See you there, and until then, safe travels!

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking. Let's listen in now!On this episode we meet Alexa Ritacco, Chief Marketing Officer at Jenni KayneIf you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com. Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.  The program theme for GELF LA 2023 is Scaling Customer Engagement Globally. GELF speakers will consistently deliver an energetic and engaging combination of global eCommerce strategy, cross-border tactics, and best practices. See you there, and until then, safe travels!

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking. Let's listen in now!On this episode we meet 康博尚 Jean Kany, Vice President - Head of Global Enterprise Retail chez CITCONIf you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com. Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.  The program theme for GELF LA 2023 is Scaling Customer Engagement Globally. GELF speakers will consistently deliver an energetic and engaging combination of global eCommerce strategy, cross-border tactics, and best practices. See you there, and until then, safe travels!

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking. Let's listen in now!On this episode we meet Nita Lathia, Head of Marketplaces at Passport, the modern international shipping carrier for e-commerce.If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com. Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.  The program theme for GELF LA 2023 is Scaling Customer Engagement Globally. GELF speakers will consistently deliver an energetic and engaging combination of global eCommerce strategy, cross-border tactics, and best practices. See you there, and until then, safe travels! 

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking. Let's listen in now!On this episode we meet Peter McMath, Chief Revenue Officer for WPIC Marketing + Technologies, speaks to being successful on Chinese and global social media.If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com. Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.  The program theme for GELF LA 2023 is Scaling Customer Engagement Globally. GELF speakers will consistently deliver an energetic and engaging combination of global eCommerce strategy, cross-border tactics, and best practices. See you there, and until then, safe travels! 

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022.   These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than just build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking.   On this episode, Stephanie Rado Taormina, Founder at Have Some Fun Today, live from GELF 2022 in NYCAbout StephanieAfter graduating from the prestigious Fashion BFA program at Parsons School of Design in NYC, Stephanie worked with some of the best designers in the business. Stephanie has spent more than 20 years in the industries of Fashion, Interiors, Manufacturing and Design. Stephanie has travelled globally and resides her business in the town of Wyomissing, PA where she operates her upscale interior design and fine art business. In July of 2014, Stephanie founded the lines HAVE SOME FUN TODAY Couture and HAVE SOME FUN TODAY HOME, a fashion, fine art, home furnishings and accessory line inspired by her late father's legacy. The first collection will be available in January 2015 on line and in retailers. To carry HAVE SOME FUN TODAY products in your retail location, please send Stephanie a private message.About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.  Be sure and visit our all-new YouTube site, where you will find plenty of excellent cross-border content from several of our events.

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022.   These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than just build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking.   On this episode, Patrick Frith, Global Trade Executive, Avalara, live from GELF 2022 in NYC About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.=You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.  Be sure and visit our all-new YouTube site, where you will find plenty of excellent cross-border content from several of our events.

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022.   These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than just build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking.   On this episode, Lynn Power CEO & Co-Founder, MASAMI Haircare, live from GELF 2022 in NYCAbout LynnAdvertising executive turned entrepreneur with a passion for leveraging creative thinking to build businesses -- and ultimately help brands survive and thrive. Strong experience in cultural & business transformation, digital strategy, consumer insights, talent design and marketing modernization. Member of Women's Forum of NY, CEW, Betaworks. About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.=You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.  Be sure and visit our all-new YouTube site, where you will find plenty of excellent cross-border content from several of our events.

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022.   These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than just build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking.   On this episode, Brian Bourke, Global Chief Commercial Officer at SEKO Logistics, live from GELF 2022 in NYCAbout BrianStarting January 2020 I start an exciting new role at SEKO with the new post of Chief Growth Officer. Responsible for the acceleration of SEKO's organic growth, I'm responsible for SEKO's demand generation, revenue management and corporate marketing and communications initiatives. I couldn't be taking this role at a more exciting time in SEKO's history as Chief Growth Officer. We have our strongest ever value proposition with the growth of our omni-channel, white glove and value-added freight forwarding services as well as a unique suite of configurable technology. Combined with the knowledge and expertise of our people, we can deliver solutions that open new business horizons and new markets for customers. Our growth will come from accelerating our customers' growth. I began my career with SEKO in 2005 after receiving his BA in Economics from the University of Wisconsin. I later joined Geodis Wilson as Head of Marketing Communications, before returning to SEKO in 2012 as Vice President of Marketing. Speaking six languages and having in depth industry knowledge  About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.=You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.  Be sure and visit our all-new YouTube site, where you will find plenty of excellent cross-border content from several of our events.

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022.   These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than just build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking.   On this episode, Michelle Frank, GM, Global Ecommerce & DTX, LogitechAbout MichelleMichelle is the GM of Global Ecommerce at Logitech. She is a 15+ year veteran in the global e-commerce industry across fashion and consumer electronics space. Michelle has lead many brands in their digital transformation journey as well as helping build scalable ecommerce business models and operations globally.About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.=You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.  Be sure and visit our all-new YouTube site, where you will find plenty of excellent cross-border content from several of our events. 

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022.   These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than just build sites.The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking.   On this episode, Sophie Abrahamsson President of Americas at BambuserAbout SophieEducation: Bachelors Degree in Media & Communications from Università degli Studi di Firenze.Experience:  +10yr of international experience from e-commerce and marketing within retail. Marketing manager for LUISAVIAROMA, Head of Digital for & Other Stories and various business development positions at H&M group. About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.=You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.  Be sure and visit our all-new YouTube site, where you will find plenty of excellent cross-border content from several of our events.   Until then, safe travels!

The 2022 Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum brings together the top thought leaders and players in the global cross-border industry and in this episode meet Beauty Industry Group's Director of Value Creation, Kevin Runolfson, and Global-e's CEO, North America, Matthew Merrilees. Together they discuss how multi-portfolio businesses can capitalize on the cross-border eCommerce opportunity as a group while still supporting each of their brands' unique identities, empowering them to expand their global footprint.Photo by Luca Bravo on UnsplashIf you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Safe travels everyone - see you in NYC September 29th, 2022!!About KevinExperienced Continuous Improvement leader successful in implementing and sustaining lean management systems that deliver value, decrease waste, and improve outcomes. Seasoned operations expert focused on strategic planning and organizational alignment, while delivering financial results. Relationship management expert comfortable with and capable of working with government leaders, community leaders, boards members, senior executives, and staff. Master of creating organizational culture that fosters commitment by engaging all employees in problem solving and continuous improvement. Straight-forward communicator willing to engage in crucial conversation in a respectful and productive manner. About MatthewGlobal-e is the leading provider of comprehensive cross-border solutions and we continue to make significant investments into the North America market! Led by a team of experienced executives with broad and diverse expertise, we provide a unique technology-based, end-to-end solution for online merchants to handle all their cross-border needs.As Chief Executive Officer, I am responsible for all aspects of the country's International e-commerce business. I travel often to meet and learn from team members and employees around the country, giving my time and attention to ensure everyone understands the critical role they play and value they bring to delivering best-in-class service to our customers – locally and internationally. My focus is to ensure we are investing in our people and putting a hyper focus on our conversion to ensure the continued growth and quality for our customers.Through a simple single integration we remove all friction points to sell globally. Coupled with our strong analytics and international market insights, we deliver huge sales uplift to our clients, increase customer satisfaction and most importantly boost conversion.Simply “Go Global. Be Local.” About UsKent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches.

Recorded live in New York, GELF Co-Founder Kent Allen sets the stage and gets us  ready for the NYC GELF event happening September 29th back in New York The 2022 Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum brings together the top thought leaders and players in the global cross-border industry and in this episode Kent outline the key issues on the minds of top executives that will make up the agenda for this years event. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Safe travels everyonePhoto by ian dooley on Unsplash About UsKent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches.

Greetings and welcome to a special episode of the podcast recorded live in the on-site podcasting studio at the L.A. Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum April 2022.   For these episodes we are joined by GELF friend & supporter Rick Watson who takes his turn on the mic as our podcast host for this LA podcast series.   In this episode, Rick talks to Hamaad Akmal, International Operations, GOAT GroupIf you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/, and be sure and visit out our all new YouTube site where you will plenty of fantastic cross-border content from several of our events.  Speaking of which, our next event will be in New York City on September 29th - mark it in your calendars now! Execs from retail brands can register for a complimentary VIP Pass at bit.ly/GELFNYC22Until then, safe travels!Visit out YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8LNeP-QGoJk0TJXI80lag use this instead? bit.ly/GELFYOUTUBECHANNEL 

Greetings and welcome to a special episode of the podcast recorded live in the on-site podcasting studio at the L.A. Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum April 2022.   For these episodes we are joined by GELF friend & supporter Rick Watson who takes his turn on the mic as our podcast host for this LA podcast series.   In this episode, Rick talks to Kathy Ando (back for a second time on the podcast!) and Karaline Goldmark, both from Tile.If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/, and be sure and visit out our all new YouTube site where you will plenty of fantastic cross-border content from several of our events.  Speaking of which, our next event will be in New York City on September 29th - mark it in your calendars now! Execs from retail brands can register for a complimentary VIP Pass at bit.ly/GELFNYC22Until then, safe travels!Visit out YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8LNeP-QGoJk0TJXI80lag use this instead? bit.ly/GELFYOUTUBECHANNEL 

Greetings and welcome to a special episode of the podcast recorded live in the on-site podcasting studio at the L.A. Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum April 2022.   For these episodes we are joined by GELF friend & supporter Rick Watson who takes his turn on the mic as our podcast host for this LA podcast series.   Let's listen in now.In this episode, Rick talks to Kevin Cushing, Business Development Manager, E-Commerce at Singapore Airlines.  Kevin is spearheading the introduction of Parxl, a new cross-border package shipping solution powered by Singapore Airlines, to US e-commerce shippers.If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/, and be sure and visit out our all new YouTube site where you will plenty of fantastic cross-border content from several of our events.  Speaking of which, our next event will be in New York City on September 29th - mark it in your calendars now! Execs from retail brands can register for a complimentary VIP Pass at bit.ly/GELFNYC22Until then, safe travels!Visit out YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8LNeP-QGoJk0TJXI80lag use this instead? bit.ly/GELFYOUTUBECHANNEL 

In this special episode GELF Co-Founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura take us through a recap of the GELF event held recently in 2022. If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Safe travels everyonePhoto by Jonathan Gonzalez on UnsplashAbout Us Kent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression Jim OkamuraJim Okamura is Partner with McMillan Doolittle - The Retail Experts. Jim has more than 25 years of consulting experience focused on the retail industry, including 20+ years in digital transformation strategies for retailers, brands and retail-related companies. Specializations include cross-border & global ecommerce and organization design for digital transformations. Through our global alliance, Ebeltoft Group, we have deep retail expertise in more than 20 countries.Clients include Wahl Clipper, Gap, adidas, Hunter Fan, Bassett Furniture, Giant Eagle, Federated Coop, Harley-Davidson, Baccarat, DSW, Tractor Supply Co., MasterCard, Verizon Wireless, Neiman Marcus, Navy Exchange, Lands' End, Microsoft, The Body Shop International, L Brands, Timberland, Media Markt, Lowe's Companies, Pep Boys, Crate and Barrel, Loyalty One, VISA, and Cadillac Fairview.Jim is a Co-founder of the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum, a community and conference series focused on global and cross-border ecommerce. Digital Retail Globalization, such as riding China's ecommerce growth wave, is important for brands, retailers and distribution partners of all sizes. About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches.

Welcome back to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, episode 23!I'm your host Michael LeBlanc and in today's episode, a preview to the great thought leadership live in person on the stage at the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum happening April 21st in L.A., I get a sneak preview chatting with June Van Heel, Head of International at Bala, Isabel Gan, Founder/CEO of Rose Planet International Brand Management Inc and Nicole Granucci, Vice President of Product Marketing of Citcon. Together with GELF co-founder Kent Allen they will be exploring where the best opportunities lie in APAC for ecommerce growth in 2022 – and how global DTC leaders can succeed in China, Japan and South Korea.  For this episode, you'll learn a bit about each of them, hear two starts and one stop advice for brands and retailers, and hint of what they will be talking about on the stage April 21 in L.A. Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum (GELF) co-founder Kent Allen joins June Van Heel, Head of International at Bala, Isabel Gan, Founder/CEO of Rose Planet International Brand Management Inc and Nicole Granucci, Vice President of Product Marketing of Citcon to explore where the best opportunities lie in APAC for ecommerce growth in 2022 – and how global DTC leaders can succeed in China, Japan and South Korea. GELF's APAC Regional Showcase kicks off the morning breakout sessions at GELF LA '22 on Thursday April 21st. Join us at the upcoming GELF LA event in West Hollywood at the venerable Director's Guild of America, 7920 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90046. Learn how today's shopping journeys differ among APAC shoppers – and how global ecommerce leaders are succeeding in China, Japan, South Korea and beyond. Retailers and DTC brands can register at globalecommerceleadersforum.com Our guests each talk about their extensive retail ecommerce backgrounds, their experience building DTC brands in Asia and developing new distribution channels in China as well as the shifting APAC ecommerce marketspace.  We wrap up with insights for listeners summarized into two-starts and one-stop.  June, Isabel and Nicole will also provide an overview of what they will be discussing at GELF LA ‘22; starting with a post-pandemic overview of the state of the ecommerce in APAC.We look forward to getting the GELF community back together live and in-person after the long layoff since GELF LA 20 in Feb 2020' GELF's biggest and best West Coast gathering ever! GELF LA 2022 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for a full day of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the “echo-boom” in global DTC and cross-border ecommerce translates into new revenue opportunities as the growth of retail ecommerce accelerates.If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus        Global E-Commerce Tech Talks  and       The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  You can learn more about Michael       here  or on       LinkedIn. 

Welcome to Global eCommerce Tech Talks,  I'm your host Michael LeBlanc. Live from my podcasting studio high above the Vegas sands during Shoptalk 2022, I sit down and talk about the latest news and developments in the global eCommerce industry with two of the sharpest minds in the space.Kent Allen and Jim Okamura, consultants, advisors, industry analysts and co-founders of the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum, are back as my special guests in-person together for an exclusive interview in my Las Vegas podcast studio.  We catch up and talk about the latest developments in global commerce, including the moves China is making internationally, the echo-boom of worldwide eCommerce and the upcoming GELF LA event on April 21, which is open to all retailers to apply to attend.If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/ Kent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression Jim OkamuraJim Okamura is Partner with McMillan Doolittle - The Retail Experts. Jim has more than 25 years of consulting experience focused on the retail industry, including 20+ years in digital transformation strategies for retailers, brands and retail-related companies. Specializations include cross-border & global ecommerce and organization design for digital transformations. Through our global alliance, Ebeltoft Group, we have deep retail expertise in more than 20 countries.Clients include Wahl Clipper, Gap, adidas, Hunter Fan, Bassett Furniture, Giant Eagle, Federated Coop, Harley-Davidson, Baccarat, DSW, Tractor Supply Co., MasterCard, Verizon Wireless, Neiman Marcus, Navy Exchange, Lands' End, Microsoft, The Body Shop International, L Brands, Timberland, Media Markt, Lowe's Companies, Pep Boys, Crate and Barrel, Loyalty One, VISA, and Cadillac Fairview.Jim is a Co-founder of the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum, a community and conference series focused on global and cross-border ecommerce. Digital Retail Globalization, such as riding China's ecommerce growth wave, is important for brands, retailers and distribution partners of all sizes. About MichaelMichael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide.  Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail's prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in  2022. Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada's top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms.   Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches.

The pandemic-driven shift to ecommerce jolted many international markets where brick-and-mortar stores previously generated most retail sales. This was especially true in LATAM markets where in recent years legacy distributors may have resisted brands' ecommerce-direct objectives.  Kathy Ando, VP of DTC and Marketing, Tile and Xavier Heriat, VP Client Success, Scalefast join me to chat about their backgrounds, answer our "two starts and one stop"  question and they speak briefly to their upcoming panel where they weighs] in on the international ecommerce growth opportunities ahead – and the operational challenges they face as digital wholesale disruption transforms the traditional ways that branded manufacturers go-to-market globally.We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever! GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking.Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online. Retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer can register/apply for complimentary passes at https://commercenext.com/gelf/ If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Kent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus        Global E-Commerce Tech Talks  and       The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  You can learn more about Michael       here  or on       LinkedIn.  Until next time, have a safe week!

We welcome the GELF community back to the Global Stage as the GELF NYC '21/CommerceNext In Real Life conference heads into Day 2. Our morning keynote tackles how multi-portfolio brands are investing in global DTC strategies in maturing and fast-growing international markets.Marquee Brands has successfully extended its ‘digital first' approach to global markets, launching advanced localized webstores across three of the group's key brands: BCBG, Motherhood and A Pea in the Pod. Marquee Brands' President – Digital Ventures, Jonathan Greller and Global-e's CEO North America, Matthew Merrilees, will discuss how customized strategies based on advanced big-data analysis and dynamic local-market pricing capabilities have allowed the brands to capitalize on increasing global demand to grow international online sales, while maintaining profit margins in line with their domestic performance.Jonathan and Matthew join Michael and Kent to tell us about themselves, answer our Two Starts, One Stop question, and give us a preview of what they will be sharing on the stage in NYC.We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever! GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking.Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online. Retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer can register/apply for complimentary passes at https://commercenext.com/gelf/ If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Kent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus        Global E-Commerce Tech Talks  and       The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  You can learn more about Michael       here  or on       LinkedIn.  Until next time, have a safe week!

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen joins Josh Rockoff, former Chief Digital Officer at Diane von Furstenberg and Juliana Pereira, VP of Marketing, Flow Commerce to discuss how Diane von Furstenberg expanded its global e-commerce footprint to shoppers in other markets.Our guests each talk about how the Diane von Furstenberg team leaned into cross-border, offering insight into the strategic approach the brand took to grow their international business as well as share some advice in Michael's patented “two starts and one stop” format.  They will also provide a brief overview of what they will be talking about at the GELF NYC '21 event; namely the challenges the brand faced launching cross-border ecommerce in several booming international markets. Juliana will also provide a sneak peek into a new Flow Commerce study rich with data profiling cross-border consumer trends in the 8 top global markets.We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever! GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking.Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online. Retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer can register/apply for complimentary passes at https://commercenext.com/gelf/ If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Kent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus        Global E-Commerce Tech Talks  and       The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  You can learn more about Michael       here  or on       LinkedIn.  Until next time, have a safe week!

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen joins Valerie de Charette, Head of International, American Eagle Outfitters and Patrick Bousquet-Chavanne, President & Chief Executive Officer, eShopWorld (ESW) Americas to discuss the complexities of expanding globally through direct-to-consumer channels. Valerie and Patrick's fireside chat will wrap up the morning keynotes at the GELF NYC '21 Global Stage during our Day 1 program on Tuesday, September 28th. Join us at the upcoming GELF event in New York, September 28th and 29th 2021 where we will be co-located with the CommerceNext In real Life conference at the Sheraton New York Times Square hotel!Our guests each talk about their extensive retail ecommerce background, their respective businesses, state of cross-border eCommerce, two starts and one stop advice.  They will also provide a brief overview of what they will be talking about at the GELF NYC '21 event; namely global expansion challenges ranging from localization and logistics to data management, legal compliance, and proving ROI internally. We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever! GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online. On September 28th and 29th, the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) community returns to New York City live and in person. This year we're bigger and better than ever as we join our friends from the CommerceNext team at the New York Hilton!GELF NYC 2021will co-locate its annual gathering in New York City with CommerceNext In Real Life (IRL) 2021. Join the GELF community for keynotes, breakout sessions, executive roundtable meetups and networking as our global ecommerce programming grows to two full days this September.We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever!GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online.     If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Kent AllenI help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression Michael LeBlanc  is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice.   He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career.  Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada's top retail industry podcast,       The Voice of Retail, plus        Global E-Commerce Tech Talks  and       The Food Professor  with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois.  You can learn more about Michael       here  or on       LinkedIn.  Until next time, have a safe week! 

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen  join Kai Li, VP of International at REVOLVE, Agustin Farias, International GM at Everlane and  Matthew Steinbrecher, Vice President, Platforms & Partnerships at Reach to catch up on all thing cross-border and talk about their exciting session at of the upcoming GELF event in New York, September 28th and 29th 2021!  Our guests each talk about their respective businesses, state of cross-border eCommerce, two starts and one stop advice and finally give a brief overview of what they will be talking about at the NYC IRL GELF 2021 event. There's light on the horizon! On September 28th and 29th, the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) community returns to New York City live and in person. This year we're bigger and better than ever as we join our friends from the CommerceNext team at the New York Hilton!GELF NYC 2021will co-locate its annual gathering in New York City with CommerceNext In Real Life (IRL) 2021. Join the GELF community for keynotes, breakout sessions, executive roundtable meetups and networking as our global ecommerce programming grows to two full days this September.We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever!GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online.     If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry. I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/ Until next time, have a safe week! 

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founders Kent Allen and Scott Silverman join me to catch up on all thing cross-border and talk about the exciting news of the upcoming GELF event in New York, September 28th and 29th 2021!There's light on the horizon! On September 28th and 29th, the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) community returns to New York City live and in person. This year we're bigger and better than ever as we join our friends from the CommerceNext team at the New York Hilton!GELF NYC 2021 will co-locate its annual gathering in New York City with CommerceNext'sIn Real Life (IRL) 2021. Join the GELF community for keynotes, breakout sessions, executive roundtable meetups and networking as our global ecommerce programming grows to two full days this September.We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever!GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online.If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify,    Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I'm Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week! 

In this episode Kent Allen, Principal of The Research Trust and Co-Founder at Global eCommerce Leaders Forum puts on a master-class in understanding the issues, mechanics, eco-system and complexities that is the reality of cross-border global eCommerce.Mark you calendars and JOIN us for GELF ACCELERATE: A GLOBAL GROWTH SUMMIT Thursday, March 25th – from 1PM to 5PM ET as the GELF community dives into a series of engaging keynotes, actionable panel discussions and fast-paced workshops and breakouts.If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen welcomes Aaron Bezzant from Zonos. And Alex Yancher back to the podcast to catch up on the state of cross-border eCommerce in the Brexit era and with the newly revised trade agreement between Canada and the U.S.******************Thanks to Alex and Aaron for their insights on the implications of Brexit, USMCA, CUSMA and governments increasing search for tax revenues, and the year of the partner!Mark you calendars and JOIN us for GELF ACCELERATE: A GLOBAL GROWTH SUMMIT Thursday, March 25th – from 1PM to 5PM ET as the GELF community dives into a series of engaging keynotes, actionable panel discussions and fast-paced workshops and breakouts.  Learn more and register here. Aaron Bezzant is the Head of Global Trade at Zonos.  Zonos stops costly surprises for you and your international customers with the most accurate landed cost in the business.Learn more at https://zonos.com/aaron@zonos.comAlex Yancher is the co-founder and CEO of Passport the international shipping carrier of choice for modern DTC brands.  https://passportshipping.com/alex@passportshipping.comIf you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum founders Kent Allen, Jim Okamura and Scott Silverman gather for one last time in 2020 to dish on their predictions for the cross-border E-Commerce Industry for the year ahead! Leveraging collectively decades of experience and access to the world’s top community of thought leaders in the space, the team from GELF reveal what they are hearing from leading retailers, brands, service providers and leading industry thought leaders on cross border for 2021 in this first of a two-part series to wrap 2020. ******************Thanks to Kent, Scott and Jim for their insights into what lies ahead for 2021, stated tuned for part two where we explore the implications of Brexit, governments increasing search for tax revenues, and the year of the partner! If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry. I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Global E-Commerce Leaders forum co-founders Kent Allen, Jim Okamura and Scott Silverman get together and share their observations, insights and action items coming out of the 2020 Oktoberfest online thought leadership event held over three days in October. *****Thanks to Kent, Scott and Jim for their comprehensive top line summary of the three action packed days  from the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum OktoberfestIf you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum  and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/ Until next time, have a safe week!

Curious about how much consumers in Canada are planning to spend this holiday – and on what products? Wondering what fulfillment and shipping strategies will pay off during peak season?Join our panelists to learn more about how the Canadian shopping journey is evolving as we head into the Next New Normal.We’ll also learn more about the “New NAFTA” and how the USMCA/CUSMA trade pact will reduce friction and create new cross-border opportunities for retail brands selling into Canada.Speakers:Shelly Wilson, VP Ecommerce and Digital Marketing, SAXXJamie Briggs, Director, eCommerce Emerging Markets, Canada PostMichael LeBlanc, Founder of The Voice of Retail Podcast (moderator)Alex Yancher, CEO, Passport ShippingOktoberfest continues on October 8th and 15th with more outstanding cross-border content, Register for free hereIf you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this episode we meet Jerry McGlynn, CIO, Specialized (formerly) and Adam Coyle, CEO, Digital River who In this sneak-peak panel preview episode of their closing Keynote Fireside: “Digital Takes Center Stage: How to Scale Global Gracefully in the Age of COVID” give a sense of the fantastic discussion to happen October 1, 2020 at Oktoberfest with their “two starts and one stop” advice for retailers and brands on their digital and global eCommerce journey.Register for free at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/oktoberfest/Let’s now hear from GELF co-founder Kent Allen who will set the stage for us:******************That’s a wrap on this Oktoberfest podcast preview edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, thanks again to Jerry and Adam for being our guests!  If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this episode we meet Tracy Hermans, Director of Ecommerce, L-Space by Monica Wise and Casey Gee, Sr. International Business Manager, MANSCAPEDBoth from the Oktoberfest Executive Leaders Keynote Panel: How Bold Guesses and “Happy Accidents” Help Digital and Wholesale Teams Work as One Team”. (Register here:http://bit.ly/gelfokto)In this sneak-peak panel preview episode you’ll learn about Tracy and Casey’s background, their “two-start, one stop” advice for brands and retailers who are now engaged in or considering cross-border commerce, and get a sense of the fantastic discussion to happen October 1, 2020 at Oktoberfest!Let’s now hear from GELF co-founder Kent Allen who will set the stage for us:******************That’s a wrap on this Oktoberfest podcast preview edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, thanks again to Tracy and Casey for being our guests!  If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this episode I connect with my partners Kent Allen and Jim Okamura for a wide ranging discussion on the global eCommerce trends they are hearing first hand from the thought leaders that are speaking at the all new GELF OktoberFest which will deliver a mix of strategic insights and tactical cross-border To Dos about  global retail expansion practices and how to prioritize the key operational aspects of your global commerce plan and how to organize your team to execute them successfully.Next, we introduce some of the great speakers who will be featured in OktoberFest, and then take a deeper dive into the Canadian export market, one of the keynote topics during OctoberFest.    Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScv1UOKzz1qci_g7bNGNqXo6tq35nY01xHHt2vMLchavk51Gw/viewformLet’s listen in...******************That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks!  If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this episode my co-host Kent Allen and I connect with Jeff Lord, Vice President of Global Direct and Digital Commerce at Burton Snowboards.  Both an eCommerce and cross-border veteran, comfortable operating from Burton’s hometown in Vermont or on the mountain in Japan or in one of the brand’s flagship stores in Toronto, Jeff shares insights on omni-channel and cross border optimization, China as the tip of the spear in consumer eCommerce, retailing in an uncertain COVID-19 era, and the power of lesson learned that will take this 40+ year old business to all new heights.Let’s listen in now to Jeff from Burton******************That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, special thanks to Jeff for being our guest on this episode, if you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this episode we connect with Kim Walls,  CEO and co-founder of Furtuna Skin, former Global GM of Lime Crime Cosmetics, Entrepreneur, Clean Beauty Pioneer, Advocate and a wealth of knowledge, experience and perspectives on global eCommerce.  Kim puts on a master class in understanding the brand ladders behind beauty brands, and how to take those brands global.Next Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder and my co-host on the podcast Kent Allen updates us on the next big GELF events, now virtual and in October, and share insights on both new research and the questions and insights he is hearing from the GELF community around growth opportunities and challenges in global markets like Canada.Let’s listen in now to Kim******************That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, special thanks to Kim for being our guest on this episode, if you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this episode we pivot to Latin America to understand the vast opportunities that Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Chile and other nations afford for global brands looking to expand their market presence in this huge but complex online retail ecosystem.   Along with GELF co-founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura, we talk with Jose Fernando Farinas, Latin America President & Global Manager | Wahl Clipper Corporation based in São Paulo, Brazil and Mariano Migues, Cross Border Trade Supervisor at Mercado Libre based in  Buenos Aires Argentina.Together we discuss both the opportunities and nuances of the markets they operate in across Latin America, how the COVID-19 crisis has impacted their business and consumers, and get a sense of the changing nature of shoppers   and online retail during the COVID era and beyondLet’s listen in******************That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, special thanks to Jose and Mariano for being our guests on this episode, if you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this episode highlights from the recent GELF community webinar, The Path Ahead: Crafting a Cross-Border Strategy in Response to Today's Environment.   Featuring introductions by my partners on the podcast Jim Okamura and Kent Allen, and then a great discussion featuring Travis Heard, Head of Finance, Operations & Strategy at brand /international DTC retailer Outerknown better known as the apparel brand from Kelly Slater, widely regarded as the greatest professional surfer of all time.   Travis puts on a master class in brand international retailing strategy, channel management, and share key factors beyond the success of their global platform.Joining Travis is Rob Keve CEO & co-founder at Flow, the world’s most advanced solution for cross-border ecommerce.   Flow’s revolutionary, platform provides infinite flexibility for merchants to design their own 'custom' international solutionLet’s listen in...******************That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks.  If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.The global pandemic has super-charged the growth of E-commerce in markets around the world – and accelerated digital commerce trends for retail brands selling direct-to-consumer (DTC).As different countries respond to the global pandemic with different timelines, retail stores will reclaim a small share of sales that has shifted online. But the shift to digital has legs; a Kantar/Detail Online study found that six out of ten consumers say that they will continue to buy as much online as they are now buying after the pandemic has passed.Global E-Commerce leaders are leveraging lessons learned internationally to fuel this domestic growth of retail sales in both established and emerging digital channels.  In this episode, we talk with Nathan Isaacson, GM Digital at New Balance and talk about his digital commerce leadership in today’s dynamic market environment, the platform world, how New Balance cracked the code with Amazon, and forming  & fostering a culture of leadership and innovation.******************That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks.  If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.In this special episode Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen takes over the mic to provide us with a comprehensive look and interpretation at top drawer global COVID-19 era retail and consumer research coming out of McKinsey Consulting, and super interesting and exclusive insights from within and around the GELF community itself with front-line observations from the practitioners of global E-Commerce from Australia to China to Hong Kong and the U.S.So lets hand the mic now over to GELF co-founder Kent Allen******************Thanks Kent, so that’s a wrap on this special solo edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks.  If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/Until next time, have a safe week!