Podcasts about amazon sellers

What does 2026 hold for indie authors and the publishing industry? I give my thoughts on trends and predictions for the year ahead. In the intro, Quitting the right stuff; how to edit your author business in 2026; Is SubStack Good for Indie Authors?; Business for Authors webinars. If you'd like to join my community and support the show every month, you'll get access to my growing list of Patron videos and audio on all aspects of the author business — for the price of a black coffee (or two) a month. Join us at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn. Joanna Penn writes non-fiction for authors and is an award-winning, New York Times and USA Today bestselling thriller author as J.F. Penn. She's also an award-winning podcaster, creative entrepreneur, and international professional speaker. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below. (1) More indie authors will sell direct through Shopify, Kickstarter, and local in-person events (2) AI-powered search will start to shift elements of book discoverability (3) The start of Agentic Commerce (4) AI-assisted audiobook narration will go mainstream (5) AI-assisted translation will start to take off beyond the early adopters (6) AI video becomes ubiquitous. ‘Live selling' becomes the next trend in social sales. (7) AI will create, run, and optimise ads without the need for human intervention (8) 1000 True Fans becomes more important than ever You can find all my books as J.F. Penn and Joanna Penn on your favourite online store in all the usual formats, or order from your local library or bookstore. You can also buy direct from me at CreativePennBooks.com and JFPennBooks.com. I'm not really active on social media, but you can always see my photos at Instagram @jfpennauthor. 2026 Trends and Predictions for Indie Authors and Book Publishing (1) More indie authors will sell direct through Shopify, Kickstarter, and local in-person events — and more companies like BookVault will offer even more beautiful physical books and products to support this. This trend will not be a surprise to most of you! Selling direct has been a trend for the last few years, but in 2026, it will continue to grow as a way that independent authors become even more independent. The recent Written Word Media survey from Dec 2025 noted that 30% of authors surveyed are selling direct already and 30% say they plan to start in 2026. Among authors earning over $10,000 per month, roughly half sell direct. In my opinion, selling direct is an advanced author strategy, meaning that you have multiple books and you understand book marketing and have an email list already or some guaranteed way to reach readers. In fact, Kindlepreneur reports that 66% of authors selling direct have more than 5 books, and 46% have more than 10 books. Of course, you can start with the something small, like a table at a local event with a limited number of books for sale, but if you want to consistently sell direct for years to come, you need to consider all the business aspects. Selling direct is not a silver bullet. It's much harder work to sell direct than it is to just upload an ebook to Amazon, whether you choose a Kickstarter campaign, or Shopify/Payhip or other online stores, or regular in-person sales at events/conferences/fairs. You need a business mindset and business practices, for example, you need to pay upfront for setup as well as ongoing management, and bulk printing in some cases. You need to manage taxes and cashflow. You need to be a lot more proactive about marketing, as you won't sell anything if you don't bring readers to your books/products. But selling direct also brings advantages. It sets you apart from the bulk of digital only authors who still only upload ebooks to Amazon, or maybe add a print on demand book, and in an era of AI rapid creation, that number is growing all the time. If you sell direct, you get your customer data and you can reach those customers next time, through your email list. If you don't know who bought your books and don't have a guaranteed way to reach them, you will more easily be disrupted when things change — and they always change eventually. Kindlepreneur notes that “45% of the successful direct selling authors had over 1,000 subscribers on their email lists,” with “a clear, positive correlation between email list size and monthly direct sales income — with authors having an email list of over 15,000 subscribers earning 20X more than authors with email lists under 100 subscribers.” Selling direct means faster money, sometimes the same day or the same week in many cases, or a few weeks after a campaign finishes, as with Kickstarter. And remember, you don't have to sell all your formats directly. You can keep your ebooks in KU, do whatever you like with audiobooks, and just have premium print products direct, or start with a very basic Kickstarter campaign, or a table at a local fair. Lots more tips for Shopify and Kickstarter at https://www.thecreativepenn.com/selldirectresources/ I also recommend the Novel Marketing Podcast on The Shopify Trap: Why authors keep losing money as it is a great counterpoint to my positive endorsement of selling direct on Shopify! Among other things, Thomas notes that a fixed monthly fee for a store doesn't match how most authors make money from books which is more in spikes, the complexity and hassle eats time and can cost more money if you pay for help, and it can reduce sales on Amazon and weaken your ranking. Basically, if you haven't figured out marketing direct to your store, it can hurt you.All true for some authors, for some genres, and for some people's lifestyle. But for authors who don't want to be on the hamster wheel of the Amazon algorithm and who want more diversity and control in income, as well as the incredible creative benefits of what you can do selling direct, then I would say, consider your options in 2025, even if that is trying out a low-financial-goal Kickstarter campaign, or selling some print books at a local fair. Interestingly, traditional publishers are also experimenting with direct sales. Kate Elton, the new CEO of Harper Collins notes in The Bookseller's 2026 trend article, “we are seeing global success with responsive, reader-driven publishing, subscription boxes and TikTok Shop and – crucially – developing strategies that are founded on a comprehensive understanding of the reader.” She also notes, “AI enables us to dramatically change the way we interact with and grow audiences. The opportunities are genuinely exciting – finding new ways to help readers discover books they will love, innovating in the ways we market and reach audiences, building new channels and adapting to new methods of consuming content.” (2) AI-powered search will start to shift elements of book discoverability From LinkedIn's 2026 Big Ideas: “Generative engine optimization (GEO) is set to replace search engine optimization (SEO) as the way brands get discovered in the year ahead. As consumers turn to AI chatbots, agentic workflows and answer engines, appearing prominently in generative outputs will matter more than ranking in search engines.” Google has been rolling out AI Mode with its AI Overviews and is beginning to push it within Google.com itself in some countries, which means the start of a fundamental change in how people discover content online. I first posted about GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) and AEO (Answer Engine Optimisation) in 2023, and it's going to change how readers find books. For years, we've talked about the long tail of search. Now, with AI-powered search, that tail is getting even longer and more nuanced. AI can understand complex, conversational queries that traditional search engines struggled with. Someone might ask, “What's a good thriller set in a small town with a female protagonist who's a journalist investigating a cold case?” and get highly specific recommendations. This means your book metadata, your website content, and your online presence need to be more detailed and conversational. AI search engines understand context in ways that go far beyond simple keywords. The authors who win in this new landscape will be those who create rich, authentic content about their books and themselves, not just promotional copy. As economist Tyler Cowen has said, “Consider the AIs as part of your audience. Because they are already reading your words and listening to your voice.” We're in the ‘organic' traffic phase right now, where these AI engines are surfacing content for ‘free,' but paid ads are inevitably on the way, and even rumoured to be coming this year to ChatGPT. By the end of 2026, I expect some authors and publishers to be paying for AI traffic, rather than blocking and protesting them. For now, I recommend checking that your author name/s and your books are surfaced when you search on ChatGPT.com as well as Google.com AI Mode (powered by Gemini). You want to make sure your work comes up in some way. I found that Joanna Penn and J.F. Penn searches brought up my Shopify stores, my website, podcast, Instagram, LinkedIn, and even my Patreon page, but did not bring up links to Amazon. If you only have an author presence on Amazon, does it appear in AI search at all? Do you need to improve anything about what the AI search brings up? Traditional publishers are also looking at this, with PublishersWeekly doing webinars on various aspects of AI in early 2026, including sessions on GEO and how book sales are changing, AI agents, and book marketing. In a 2026 predictions article on The Bookseller, the CEO of Bloomsbury Publishing noted, “The boundaries of artificial intelligence will become clearer, enabling publishers to harness its benefits while seeking to safeguard the intellectual property rights of authors, illustrators and publishers.” “AI will be deeply embedded in our workflows, automating tasks such as metadata tagging, freeing teams to focus on creativity and strategy. Challenges will persist. Generative AI threatens traditional web traffic and ad revenue models, making metadata optimisation and SEO critical for visibility as we adjust to this new reality online.” (3) The start of Agentic Commerce AI researches what you want to buy and may even buy on your behalf. Plus, I predict that Amazon does a commerce deal with OpenAI for shopping within ChatGPT by the end of 2026. In September 2025, ChatGPT launched Instant Checkout and the Agentic Commerce Protocol, which will enable bots to buy on websites in the background if authorised by the human with the credit card. VISA is getting on board with this, so is PayPal, with no doubt more payment options to come. In the USA, ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Free users can now buy directly from US Etsy sellers inside the chat interface, with over a million Shopify merchants coming soon. Shopify and OpenAI have also announced a partnership to bring commerce to ChatGPT. I am insanely excited about this as it could represent the first time we have been able to more easily find and surface books in a much more nuanced way than the 7 keywords and 3 categories we have relied on for so long! I've been using ChatGPT for at least the last year to find fiction and non-fiction books as I find the Amazon interface is ‘polluted' by ads. I've discovered fascinating books from authors I've never heard of, most in very long tail areas. For example, Slashed Beauties by A. Rushby, recommended by ChatGPT as I am interested in medical anatomy and anatomical Venuses, and The Macabre by Kosoko Jackson, recommended as I like art history and the supernatural. I don't think I would have found either of these within a nuanced discussion with ChatGPT. Even without these direct purchase integrations, ChatGPT now has Shopping Research, which I have found links directly to my Shopify store when I search for my books specifically. Walmart has partnered with OpenAI to create AI-first shopping experiences, and you have to wonder what Amazon might be doing? In Nov 2025, Amazon signed a “strategic partnership” with OpenAI, and even though it's focused on the technical side of AI, those two companies in a room together might also be working on other plans … I'm calling it for 2026. I think Amazon will sign a commerce agreement with OpenAI sometime before the end of the year. This will enable at least recommendation and shopping links into Amazon stores (presumably using an OpenAI affiliate link), or perhaps even Instant Checkout with ChatGPT for Amazon. It will also enable a new marketing angle, especially if paid ads arrive in ChatGPT, perhaps even integrating with Amazon Ads in some way as part of any possible agreement, since ads are such a good revenue stream for Amazon anyway. The line between discovery, engagement, and purchase is collapsing. Someone could be having a conversation with an AI about what to read next, and within that same conversation, purchase a bookwithout ever leaving the chat interface. This already happens within TikTok and social commerce clearly works for many authors. It's possible that the next development for book discoverability and sales might be within AI chats. This will likely stratify the already fragmented book eco-system even more. Some readers will continue to live only within the Amazon ecosystem and (maybe) use their Rufus chatbot to buy, and others will be much wider in their exploration of how to find and discover books (and other products and services). If you haven't tried it yet, try ChatGPT.com Shopping Research for a book. You can do this on the free tier. Use the drop down in the main chat box and select Shopping Research. It doesn't have to be for your book. It can be any book or product, for example, our microwave died just before Christmas so I used it to find a new one. But do a really nuanced search with multiple requirements. Go far beyond what you would search for on Amazon. In the results, notice that (at the time of writing) it does not generally link to Amazon, but to independent sites and stores. As above, I think this will change by the end of 2026, as some kind of commerce deal with Amazon seems inevitable. (4) AI-assisted audiobook narration will go mainstream I've been talking about AI narration of audiobooks since 2019, and over the years, I've tried various different options. In 2025, the technology reached a level of emotional nuance that made it much easier to create satisfying fiction audio as well as non-fiction. It also super-charges accessibility, making audio available in more languages and more accents than ever before. Of course, human narration remains the gold standard, but the cost makes it prohibitive for many authors, and indeed many small traditional publishers, for all books. If it costs $2000 – $10,000 to create an audiobook, you have to sell a lot to make a profit, and the dominance of subscription models have made it harder to recoup the costs. Famous narrators and voice artists who have an audience may still be worth investing in, as well as premium production, but require an even higher upfront cost and therefore higher sales and streams in return. AI voice/audio models are continuing to improve, and even as this goes out, there are rumours on TechCrunch that OpenAI's new device, designed by Jony Ive who designed the iPhone, will be audio first and OpenAI are improving their voice models even more in preparation for that launch. In 2026, I think AI-narrated audio will go mainstream with far-reaching adoption across publishing and the indie author world in many different languages and accents. This will mean a further stratification of audiobooks, with high quality, high production, high cost human narrated audio for a small percentage of books, and then mass market, affordable AI-narrated audio for the rest. AI-narrated audiobooks will make audio ubiquitous, and just as (almost) every print book has an ebook format, in 2026, they will also have an audio format. I straddle both these worlds, as I am still a human audiobook narrator for my own work. I human-narrated Successful Self-Publishing Fourth Edition (free audiobook) and The Buried and the Drowned, my short story collection. I also use AI narration for some books. ElevenLabs remains my preferred service and in 2025, I used my J.F. Penn voice clone for Death Valley and also Blood Vintage, while using a male voice for Catacomb. I clearly label my AI-narration in the sales description and also on the cover, which I think is important, although it is not always required by the various services. You can distribute ElevenLabs narrated audiobooks on Spotify, Kobo Writing Life, YouTube, ElevenReader, and of course your own store if you use Shopify with Bookfunnel. There are many other services springing up all the time, so make sure you check the rights you have over the finished audio, as well as where you can sell and distribute the final files. If they are just using ElevenLabs models in the back-end, then why not just do that directly? (Most services will be using someone's model in the back-end, since most companies do not train their own models.) Of course, you can use Amazon's own narration. While Amazon originally launched Audible audiobooks with Virtual Voice (AVV) in November 2023, it was rolled out to more authors and territories in 2025. If your book is eligible, the option to create an audiobook will appear on your KDP dashboard. With just a few clicks, you can create an audiobook from a range of voices and accents, and publish it on Amazon and Audible. However, the files are not yours. They are exclusive to Amazon and you cannot use them on other platforms or sell them direct yourself. But they are also free, so of course, many authors, especially those in KU, will use this option. I have done some for my mum's sweet romance books as Penny Appleton and I will likely use them for my books in translation when the option becomes available. Traditional publishers are experimenting with AI-assisted audiobook narration as well. MacMillan is selling digital audiobooks read by AI directly on their store. PublishersWeekly reports that PRH Audio “has experimented with artificial voice in specific instances, such as entrepreneur Ely Callaway's posthumous memoir The Unconquerable Game,” when an “authorized voice replica” was created for the audiobook. The article also notes that PRH Audio “embrace artificial intelligence across business operations—my entire department [PRH Audio] is using AI for business applications.” And while indie authors can't use AI voices on ACX right now, Audible have over 100 voices available to selected publishing partnerships, as reported by The Guardian with “two options for publishers wishing to make use of the technology: “Audible-managed” production, or “self-service” whereby publishers produce their own audiobooks with the help of Audible's AI technology.” In 2026, it's likely that more traditional publishers — as well as indie authors — will get their backlist into audio with AI narration. (5) AI-assisted translation will start to take off beyond the early adopters Over the years, I've done translation deals with traditional publishers in different languages (German, French, Spanish, Korean, Italian) for some fiction and non-fiction books. But of course, to get these kinds of deals, you have to be proactive about pitching, or work with an agent for foreign rights only, and those are few and far between! There are also lots of languages and territories worldwide, and most deals are for the bigger markets, leaving a LOT of blue water for books in translation, even if you have licensed some of the bigger markets. I did my first partially AI-translated books in 2019 when I used Deepl.com for the first draft and then worked with a German editor to do 3 non-fiction books in German. While the first draft was cheap, the editing was pretty expensive, so I stopped after only doing a couple. I have made the money back now, but it took years. In 2025, AI Translation began to take off with ScribeShadow, GlobeScribe.ai, and more recently, in November 2025, Kindle Translate boosting the number of translated books available. Kindle Translate is (currently) only available to US authors for English into Spanish and also German into English, but in 2026, this will likely roll out to more languages and more authors, making it easier than ever to produce translations for free. Of course, once again, the gold standard is human translation, or at least human-edited translations, but the cost is prohibitive even just for proof-reading, and if there is a cheap or even free option, like Kindle Translate, then of course, authors are going to try it. If the translation gets bad reviews, they can just un-publish. There are many anecdotal stories of indie success in 2025 with AI-translated genre fiction sales (in series) in under-served markets like Italian, French, and Spanish, as well as more mainstream adoption in German. I was around in the Kindle gold-rush days of 2009-2012 and the AI-translation energy right now feels like that. There are hardly any Kindle ebooks in many of these languages compared to how many there are in English, so inevitably, the rush is on to fill the void, especially in genres that are under-served by traditional publishers in those markets. Yes, some of these AI translated books will be ‘AI-slop,' but readers are not stupid. Those books will get bad reviews and thus will sink to the bottom of the store, never to be seen again. The AI translation models are also improving rapidly, and Amazon's Kindle Translate may improve faster than most, for books specifically, since they will be able to get feedback in terms of page reads. Amazon is also a major investor in Anthropic, which makes Claude.ai, widely considered the best quality for creative writing and translation, so it's likely that is used somewhere in the mix. Some traditional publishers are also experimenting with AI-assisted translation, with Harlequin France reportedly using AI translation and human proofreaders, as reported by the European Council of Literary Translators' Associations in December 2025. Academic publisher Taylor and Francis is also using AI for book translation, noting: “Following a program of rigorous testing, Taylor & Francis has announced plans to use AI translation tools to publish books that would otherwise be unavailable to English-language readers, bringing the latest knowledge to a vastly expanded readership.” “Until now, the time and resources required to translate books has meant that the majority remained accessible only to those who could read them in the original language. Books that were translated often only became available after a significant delay. Today, with the development of sophisticated AI translation tools, it has become possible to make these important texts available to a broad readership at speed, without compromising on accuracy.” (6) AI video becomes ubiquitous. ‘Live selling' becomes the next trend in social sales. In 2025, short form AI-generated video became very high quality. OpenAI released Sora 2, and YouTube announced new Shorts creation tools with Veo 3, which you can also use directly within Gemini. There are tons of different AI video apps now, including those within the social media sites themselves. There is more video than ever and it's much easier to create. I am not a fan of short form video! I don't make it and I don't consume it, but I do love making book trailers for my Kickstarter campaigns and for adding to my book pages and using on social media. I made a trailer for The Buried and the Drowned using Midjourney for images and then animation of those images, and Canva to put them together along with ElevenLabs to generate the music. But despite the AI tools getting so much easier to use, you still have to prompt them with exactly what you want. I can't just upload my book and say, “Make a book trailer,” or “Make a short film.” This may change with generative video ads, which are likely to become more common in 2026, as video turns specifically commercial. Video ads may even be generated specifically for the user, with an audience of one, maybe even holding your book in their hands (using something like Cameos on Sora), in the same way that some AI-powered clothing stores do virtual try-ons. This might also up-end the way we discover and buy things, as the AI for eCommerce and Amazon Sellers newsletter says about OpenAI's Sora app, “OpenAI isn't just trying to build a TikTok competitor. They're building a complete reimagining of how we discover and buy things …” “The combination of ChatGPT's research capabilities and Sora's potential for emotional manipulation—I mean, “engagement”—could create something we've never seen before: an AI ecosystem that might eventually guide you through every type of purchase, from the most considered to the most impulsive.” In 2026, there will be A LOT more AI-generated video, but that also leads to the human trend of more live video. While you can use an AI avatar that looks and sounds like you using tools like HeyGen or Synthesia, live video has all the imperfect human elements that make it stand-out, plus the scarcity element which leads to the purchase decision within a countdown period. Live video is nothing new in terms of brand building and content in general, but it seems that live events primarily for direct sales might be a thing in 2026. Kim Kardashian hosted Kimsmas Live in December 2025 with a 45 minute live shopping event with special guests, described as entertainment but designed to be a sales extravaganza. Indie authors are doing a similar thing on TikTok with their books, so this is a trend to watch in 2026, especially if you feel that live selling might fit with your personality and author business goals. It's certainly not for everyone, but I suspect it will suit a different kind of creator to those who prefer ‘no face' video, or no video at all! On other aspects of the human side of social media, Adam Mosseri the CEO of Instagram put a post on Threads called Authenticity after Abundance. He said, “Everything that made creators matter—the ability to be real, to connect, to have a voice that couldn't be faked—is now suddenly accessible to anyone with the right tools.” “Deepfakes are getting better and better. AI is generating photographs and videos indistinguishable from captured media. The feeds are starting to fill up with synthetic everything. And in that world, here's what I think happens.Creators matter more.” It's a long article so just to pick a few things from it: “We like to talk about “AI slop,” but there is a lot of amazing AI content … we are going to start to see more and more realistic AI content.” I've talked to my Patreon Community about this ‘tsunami of excellence' as these tools are just getting better and better and the word ‘slop' can also be applied to purely human output, too. If you think that AI content is ‘worse' than wholly human content, in 2026, you are wrong. It is now very very good, especially in the hands of people who can drive the AI tools. Back to Adam's post: “Authenticity is fast becoming a scarce resource, …The creators who succeed will be those who figure out how to maintain their authenticity [even when it can be simulated] …” “The bar is going to shift from “can you create?” to “can you make something that only you could create?” He talks about how the personal content on Instagram now is: “unpolished; it's blurry photos and shaky videos of people's daily experiences … flattering imagery is cheap to produce and boring to consume. People want content that feels real… Savvy creators are going to lean into explicitly unproduced and unflattering images of themselves. In a world where everything can be perfected, imperfection becomes a signal. Rawness isn't just aesthetic preference anymore—it's proof. It's defensive. A way of saying: this is real because it's imperfect.” While I partially love this, and I really hope it's true, as in I hope we don't need to look good for the camera anymore I would also challenge Adam on this, because pretty much every woman I know on social media has been sent sexual messages, and/or told they are ugly and/or fat when posting anything unflattering. I've certainly had both even for the same content, but I don't expect Adam has been the target for such posting! But I get his point. He goes on:“Labeling content as authentic or AI-generated is only part of the solution though. We, as an industry, are going to need to surface much more context about not only the media on our platforms, but the accounts that are sharing it in order for people to be able to make informed decisions about what to believe. Where is the account? When was it created? What else have they posted?” This is exactly what I've been saying for a while under my double down on being human focus. I use my Instagram @jfpennauthor as evidence of humanity, not as a sales channel. You can do both of course, but increasingly, you need to make sure your accounts at places have longevity and trust, even by the platforms themselves. Adam finishes: “In a world of infinite abundance and infinite doubt, the creators who can maintain trust and signal authenticity—by being real, transparent, and consistent—will stand out.” For other marketing trends for 2026, I recommend publicist Kathleen Schmidt's SubStack which is mostly focused on traditional publishing but still interesting for indies. In her 2026 article, she notes: “We have reached a social media saturation point where going viral can be meaningless and should not be the goal; authenticity and creativity should. She also says, “In-person events are important again,” and, “Social media marketing takes a nosedive… we have reached a saturation point … What publishers must figure out is how to make their social media campaigns stand out. If they remain somewhat uninspired, the money spent on social ads won't convert into book sales.” I think this is part of the rise of live selling as above, which can stand out above more ‘produced' videos. Kathleen also talks about AI usage. “AI can help lighten the burden of publicity and marketing.” “A lot of AI tools are coming to market to lessen the load: they can write pitches, create media lists for you, send pitches for you, and more. I know the industry is grappling with all things AI, but some of these tools are huge time savers and may help a book more than hurt it.” On that note … (7) AI will create, run, and optimise ads without the need for human intervention Many authors will be very happy about this as marketing is often the bane of our author business lives! As I noted in my 2026 goals, I would love to outsource more marketing tasks to AI. I want an “AI book marketing assistant” where I can upload a book and specify a budget and say, ‘Go market this,' then the AI will action the marketing, without me having to cobble together workflows between systems. Of course, it will present plans for me to approve but it will do the work itself on the various platforms and monitor and optimize things for me. I really hope 2026 is the year this becomes possible, because we are on the edge of it already in some areas. Amazon Ads launched a new agentic AI tool in September 2025 that creates professional-quality ads. I've also been working with Claude in Chrome browser to help me analyse my Amazon Ad data and suggest which keywords/products to turn off and what to put more budget into. I'll do a Patreon video on that soon. Meta announced it will enable AI ad creation by the end of 2026 for Facebook and Instagram. For authors who find ad creation overwhelming or time-consuming, this could be a game-changer. Of course, you will still need a budget! (8) 1000 True Fans becomes more important than ever Lots of authors and publishers are moaning about the difficulty of reaching readers in an era of ‘AI slop' but there is no shortage of excellent content created by humans, or humans using AI tools. As ever, our competition is less about other authors, or even authors using AI-assisted creation, we're competing against everything else that jostles for people's attention, and the volume of that is also growing exponentially. I've never been a fan of rapid release, and have said for years that you can't keep up with the pace of the machines. So play a different game. As Kevin Kelly wrote in 2008, If you have 1000 true fans, (also known as super fans), “you can make a living — if you are content to make a living but not a fortune.” [Kevin Kelly was on this show in 2023 talking about Excellent Advice for Living.] Many authors and the publishing industry are stuck in the old model of aiming to sell huge volumes of books at a low profit margin to a massive number of readers, many of them releasing ever faster to try and keep the algorithms moving. But the maths can work for the smaller audience of more invested readers and fans. If you only make $2 profit on an ebook, you need to sell 500 ebooks to make $1000, and then do it again next month. Or you can have a small community like my patreon.com/thecreativepenn where people pay $2 (or more) a month, so even a small revenue per person results in a better outcome over the year, as it is consistent monthly income with no advertising. But what if you could make $20 profit per book? That is entirely possible if you're producing high quality hardbacks on Kickstarter, or bundle deals of audiobooks, or whole series of ebooks. You would only need to sell to 50 people to make $1000. What about $100 profit per sale, which you can do with a small course or live event? You only need 10 people to make $1000, and this in-person focus also amplifies trust and fosters human connection. I've found the intimacy of my live Patreon Office Hours and also my webinars have been rewarding personally, but also financially, and are far more memorable — and potentially transformative — than a pre-recorded video or even another book. From the LinkedIn 2026 Big Ideas article: “In an AI-optimized world, intentional human connection will become the ultimate luxury.” The 1000 True Fans model is about serving a smaller, more personal audience with higher value products (and maybe services if that's your thing). As ever, its about niche and where you fit in the long long long long long tail. It's also about trust. Because there is definitely a shortage of that in so many areas, and as Adam Mosseri of Instagram has said, trust will be increasingly important. Trust takes time to build, but if you focus on serving your audience consistently, and delivering a high quality, and being authentic, this emerges as part of being human. In an echo of what happened when online commerce first took off, we are back to talking about trust. Back in 2010, I read Trust Agents: by Julien Smith and Chris Brogan, which clearly needs a comeback. There was a 10th anniversary edition published in 2020, so that's worth a read/listen. Chris Brogan was also on this show in 2017 when we talked about finding and serving your niche for the long term. That interview is still relevant, here's a quick excerpt, where I have (lightly edited) his response to my question on this topic back in 2017: Jo: The principle of know, like, and trust, why is that still important or perhaps even more important these days? Chris: There are a few things that at play there, Joanna. One is that the same tools that make it so easy for any of us to start and run a business also allow certain elements to decide whether or not they want to do something dubious. And with all new technologies that come, you know, there's nothing unique about these new technologies. In the 1800s, anyone could put anything in a bottle and sell it to you and say, this is gonna cure everything. Cancer — gone. And the bottle could have nothing in. You know, it could be Kool-Aid. And so, the idea of trying to understand what's behind the business though, one beautiful thing that's come is that we can see in much more dimensions who we're dealing with. We can understand better who's the face behind the brand. I really want people to try their best to be a lot clearer on what they stand for or what they say. And I don't really mean a tagline. I mean, humans don't really talk like that. They don't throw some sentence out as often as they can that you remember them for that phrase. But I would say that, we have so many media available to us — the plural of mediums — where we can be more of ourselves. And I think that there's a great opportunity to share the ‘you' behind the scenes, and some people get immediately terrified about this, ‘Ah, the last thing I want is for people to know more about me,' but I think we have such an opportunity. We have such an opportunity to voice our thoughts on something, to talk about the story that goes behind the product. We were all raised on overly produced material, but I think we don't want that anymore. We really want clarity, brevity, simplicity. We want the ability for what we feel is connection and then access. And so I think it's vital that we connect and show people our accessibility, not so that they can pester us with strange questions, but more so that you can say, this person stands with their product and their service and this person believes these things, and I feel something when I hear them and I wanna be part of that.” That's from Chris Brogan's interview here in 2017, and he is still blogging and speaking at writing at ChrisBrogan.com and I'm going to re-listen to the audiobook of Trust Agents again myself as I think it's more relevant than ever. The original quote comes from Bob Burg in his 1994 book, Endless Referrals, “All things being equal, people will do business with, and refer business to, those people they know, like and trust.” That still applies, and absolutely fits with the 1000 True Fans model of aiming to serve a smaller audience. As Kevin Kelly says in 1000 True Fans, “Instead of trying to reach the narrow and unlikely peaks of platinum bestseller hits, blockbusters, and celebrity status, you can aim for direct connection with a thousand true fans.” “On your way, no matter how many fans you actually succeed in gaining, you'll be surrounded not by faddish infatuation, but by genuine and true appreciation. It's a much saner destiny to hope for. And you are much more likely to actually arrive there.” In 2026, I hope that more authors (including me!) let go of ego goals and vanity metrics like ranking, gross sales (income before you take away costs), subscribers, followers, and likes, and consider important business numbers like profit (which is the money you have after costs like marketing are taken out), as well as number of true fans — and also lifestyle elements like number of weekends off, or days spent enjoying life and not just working! OK, that's my list of trends and predictions for 2026. Let me know what you think in the comments. Do you agree? Am I wrong? What have I missed? The post 2026 Trends And Predictions For Indie Authors And The Book Publishing Industry with Joanna Penn first appeared on The Creative Penn.

Meet this Amazon seller still selling his first product. He shares how Freedom Ticket and Helium 10 tools sparked instant success, which then scaled in two years through B2B sales, AMC, and lean operations.  

For years you've heard us talk DOWN the use of leads lists, but recently that has all changed because of how 3PMercury has changed the game. We are now actively on the hunt for leads lists of INTEGRITY that do the heavy lifting for you when it comes to finding viable ASINs.    Today we meet with a coach on our team who has launched a leads list service at OAprofitpipeline.com (use coupon code "Jim75" to save big!)   Can a leads list service be better than your own VA? Does it make sense to use a leads list service if you DO NOT yet own 3PMercury? What goes into finding great ASINs for a leads list? How many others get access to the leads you get from a good list? We answer all those questions and tell you how to get 600 ASIN leads right out of the gate working with Travis and his team!   Watch this episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/DdbtlVAmxw4   Show note LINKS:   SilentJim.com/bookacall - Schedule a FREE, customized and insightful consultation with my team or me (Jim) to discuss your e-commerce goals and options.   My Silent Team Facebook group. 100% FREE! Facebook.com/groups/mysilentteam - Join 82,000 + Facebook members from around the world who are using the internet creatively every day to launch and grow multiple income streams through our exciting PROVEN strategies! There's no support community like this one anywhere else in the world!   ProvenAmazonCourse.com - The comprehensive course that contains ALL our Amazon training modules, recorded events and a steady stream of latest cutting-edge training, including, of course, the most popular starting point, the REPLENS selling model. The PAC is updated free for life!   3pmercury.com/friends - The best price on 3PMercury   Today's guest: Travis Sears of OAProfitPipeline (use coupon code "Jim75" to save big!)

Send us a textDuring the holiday season, many sellers overlook a crucial tactic: raising prices. This often-underestimated strategy is one of the easiest ways to improve your online business. Learn how to succeed on Amazon by implementing smart pricing strategies, especially when conversion rates spike, to effectively raise your prices without deterring customers.Want to raise prices and protect your margins without risking your listings? Let's build a pricing strategy that works. Book a strategy call now: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonPricing #Q4Sales #AmazonSellers #EcommerceProfit #HolidaySalesStrategy-------------------------------------------------------------------------Want free resources? Dowload our Free Amazon guides here:Amazon SEO Toolkit 2026: https://bit.ly/4oC2ClTQ4 Selling Playbook: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm32025 Ecommerce Holiday Playbook: https://bit.ly/4hbygovAmazon PPC Guide 2025: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXAmazon Crisis Kit: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Why most sellers forget to raise prices during Q400:21 – How higher conversion offsets price increases01:08 – A $125K case study from one price change01:33 – How to avoid losing the Buy Box02:20 – Why testing pricing is low risk in Q402:45 – Most sellers discount when they should raise03:38 – What Black Friday really means for profits04:00 – FBM as a backup if FBA runs out04:43 – Personal example: driving to UPS to keep selling________________________________Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast:My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

Send us a textIt's PPC campaign time for Christmas. This video explains the importance of setting up a dedicated PPC campaign for your Amazon brand during the Christmas season, guiding you through the campaign builder and demonstrating how to choose campaign types and set up targeting options. Learn how a strategic pay per click campaign and a solid christmas marketing strategy can boost your visibility and sales this holiday season. Before building your next amazon ppc strategy, get clarity on what's missing, avoid wasted ad spend with expert help: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonPPC #AmazonAdvertising #AmazonSellers #HolidaySales #ecommercegrowth -------------------------------------------------------------------------Want free resources? Dowload our Free Amazon guides here:Amazon SEO Toolkit 2026: https://bit.ly/4oC2ClTQ4 Selling Playbook: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm32025 Ecommerce Holiday Playbook: https://bit.ly/4hbygovAmazon PPC Guide 2025: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXAmazon Crisis Kit: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Why Christmas PPC campaigns matter00:40 – Why Sponsored Products should get most budget01:41 – Manual targeting for holiday gift keywords02:48 – Finding gift keywords buyers actually search03:50 – Validating keywords directly on Amazon05:00 – Seasonal keyword strategy and end dates05:35 – Bidding higher on gift keywords06:38 – Campaign settings and bid adjustments08:04 – Budget planning for short holiday campaigns08:55 – Reviewing data and fast optimizations________________________________Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast:My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

Amazon launches a new Alexa+ web browser, Europe introduces new fees for small imports, and Helium 10 adds more tools for the Saudi Arabia market. ► Free Amazon Seller Chrome Extension: https://h10.me/extension ► Sign Up For Helium 10: https://h10.me/signup  (Use SSP10 To Save 10% For Life) ► Learn How To Sell on Amazon: https://h10.me/ft We're back with another episode of the Weekly Buzz with Helium 10's Principal Brand Evangelist, Carrie Miller. Every week, we cover the latest breaking news in the Amazon, TikTok Shop, Walmart, and E-commerce space, talk about Helium 10's newest features, and provide a training tip for the week for serious sellers of any level.   Introducing Alexa+, the next generation of Alexa https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/new-alexa-generative-artificial-intelligence https://alexa.amazon.com/about EU to impose 3 euro duty on e-commerce parcels from July 2026 https://www.reuters.com/world/china/eu-impose-3-euro-duty-small-e-commerce-parcels-july-2026-2025-12-12/ New Helium 10 Tools for the Saudi Arabia Amazon Marketplace Brand Store quality rating now reflect sales performance https://advertising.amazon.com/en-us/resources/whats-new/brand-store-quality-rating-now-reflect-sales-performance/?ref_=a20m_us_wn_gw TikTok Shop is driving social commerce growth https://www.retaildive.com/news/tiktok-shop-drives-social-commerce-growth/807665/ Amazon Seller News: View updated Customer Service Insights in Feedback Manager https://sellercentral.amazon.com/seller-news/articles/QVRWUERLSUtYMERFUiNHSDIyVjY1QzRVNllYVUNO In episode 480 of the AM/PM Podcast and Weekly Buzz, Carrie covers: 00:45 - New Alexa+ Web Browser 02:36 - New 3 Euro Duty 06:06 - Saudi Arabia Tools 07:57 - Brand Story Quality Rating 09:32 - Advanced Keyword Research 14:54 - TikTok Shop Driving Growth 16:26 - Customer Service Insights Enjoy this episode? Want to be able to ask questions to Leo Sgovio live in a small group with other 7 and 8-figure Amazon sellers?  Join the Helium 10 Elite Mastermind and get quarterly workshops, monthly training, and networking calls with Leo at h10.me/elite Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you listen to our podcast!

Send us a textAmazon sellers saw nonstop changes in 2025. From product title rules and feedback updates to the complete removal of FBA prep services. This video covers the most critical Amazon updates of the year and how they will impact your listings, ads, variations, and seller feedback. Understand what's changing before it costs you conversions or account health.You'll also learn how Amazon is crawling brand websites for compliance, what Rufus AI is actually doing behind the scenes, and how their silent variation page update could affect your sales. The video also covers Amazon's push for more discounts and ad spend, and how sellers should prepare their strategy heading into 2026.Don't let Amazon's new rules ruin your 2026 plan, get a free custom strategy call now: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonUpdates #AmazonSellers #FBA2025 #EcommerceTips #amazonnews -------------------------------------------------------------------------Want free resources? Dowload our Free Amazon guides here:Amazon SEO Toolkit 2026: https://bit.ly/4oC2ClTQ4 Selling Playbook: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm32025 Ecommerce Holiday Playbook: https://bit.ly/4hbygovAmazon PPC Guide 2025: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXAmazon Crisis Kit: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Amazon Updates Weekly Now00:29 - New Title Requirements in 202502:28 - Search Query API: Big Data Change04:07 - Two-Part Titles Survey from Amazon06:06 - Impact of Short vs. Long Titles08:01 - Amazon Is Crawling Brand Websites10:40 - FBA Prep Service Ends in 202613:57 - Feedback Abuse Gets Easier in 202516:49 - Amazon Rufus Tracks Order History19:31 - Rufus AI: Real SEO Impact or Hype?21:00 - Subscribe & Save Now Costs Sellers More23:00 - New Variation Pages Launched25:57 - Limiting Variations to Improve Sales27:37 - Amazon Price History Feature May Hurt You31:00 - Final Thoughts on Rufus and Pricing Strategy________________________________Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast:My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

Bradley Sutton shares his wild journey from sumo wrestler and Zumba instructor to Amazon launch expert, revealing the Amazon seller grind mindset, resilience, hustle, heart, and hard-won lessons.

Amazon finally gets rid of the dreaded commingling. Will the post office stop delivering Amazon products? An important new rule for TikTok shop shipping. More stories on today's Weekly Buzz! ► Watch The Podcasts On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AMPMPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 ► Instagram: instagram.com/serioussellerspodcast ► Free Amazon Seller Chrome Extension: https://h10.me/extension ► Sign Up For Helium 10: https://h10.me/signup  (Use SSP10 To Save 10% For Life) ► Learn How To Sell on Amazon: https://h10.me/ft We're back with another episode of the AM/PM Podcast and Weekly Buzz with Helium 10's VP of Education and Strategy, Bradley Sutton. Every week, we cover the latest breaking news in the Amazon, Walmart, and E-commerce space, talk about Helium 10's newest features, and provide a training tip for the week for serious sellers of any level. Amazon: Commingling practices will end effective March 31, 2026 https://sellercentral.amazon.com/seller-news/articles/QVRWUERLSUtYMERFUiNHSktDTEM5N0s5MkRBWFAy Amazon in discussions with USPS about future relationship https://www.reuters.com/technology/amazon-explores-cutting-ties-with-usps-washington-post-reports-2025-12-04/ TikTok Shop tightens Postal Service shipping options for sellers https://www.retaildive.com/news/tiktok-shop-usps-label-requirements-change/807086/ Assess new brand names with Brand Name Evaluator https://sellercentral.amazon.com/seller-news/articles/QVRWUERLSUtYMERFUiNHVzNBWVRVTEZWN0VQWU1C Helium 10 is hosting an Elite workshop in Irvine, CA with sessions on AI SEO, TikTok Shop growth, and keyword research. Use code Elite100 at https://h10.me/q4workshop for a free $299 ticket. Lastly, an announcement for Helium 10's podcasts. The AM/PM Podcast will now focus on news and expert-led strategy trainings for e-commerce sellers. For brand stories and seller journeys, subscribe to the Serious Sellers Podcast. In episode #478 of the AM/PM Podcast and Weekly Buzz by Helium 10, Bradley covers: 00:00 - Introduction 01:28 - RIP Commingling 08:58 - RIP USPS? 10:15 - Amazon Listing Sync 12:38 - RIP TikTok Shop USPS Labels 14:18 - TikTok Shop Ads 17:27 - Amazon Brand Evaluator 19:18 - Elite Workshop 20:29 - Serious Sellers Podcast Enjoy this episode? Want to be able to ask questions to Leo Sgovio live in a small group with other 7 and 8-figure Amazon sellers?  Join the Helium 10 Elite Mastermind and get monthly workshops, training, and networking calls with Kevin at h10.me/elite Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you listen to our podcast!

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss how to navigate the upcoming Chinese New Year!

Imagine spending $75,000 on Amazon ads and selling… just one $40K tiny home. That's exactly where our guest Caroline found herself after leaving her CFO job and investing $750K into luxury prefab homes. In this episode, she jumps on an onboarding call with Michael from Ad Badger to figure out how to fix a broken PPC strategy, stop wasting money on ridiculous keywords like “IKEA hats,” and actually scale her business. Listen in as they break down long sales cycles, high-ticket ad spend, and the exact steps to go from losing $10K per month to dominating the tiny home market on Amazon.

Send us a textHow My Amazon Guy Helps You Overcome Amazon Challenges. Selling on Amazon can feel like you're walking on a tightrope, one wrong move, a suspension, or a frozen account, and your business could be on the line. In this video, we hear directly from real clients about how My Amazon Guy has helped them navigate the complexities of selling on Amazon, from dealing with Amazon suspensions to increasing sales with expert PPC management.At My Amazon Guy, we understand the struggles Amazon sellers face, whether it's the frustration of seller support, dealing with suspended accounts, or managing the constant changes in the Amazon ecosystem. Our clients come to us when they're tired of hitting dead ends, and we're here to provide the peace of mind they need.Stop the Amazon nightmare now, schedule a call and get expert help managing your business risks! https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonSellerSupport #AmazonSuspension #AmazonPPC #AmazonAds #ppcmanagement ----------------------------------------------------------------------Want free resources? Dowload our Free Amazon guides here:Q4 Selling Playbook: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm3 2025 Ecommerce Holiday Playbook: https://bit.ly/4hbygov Amazon PPC Guide 2025: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYX 2025 Ecommerce Holiday Playbook: https://bit.ly/4hbygovAmazon Crisis Kit: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Amazon SEO Toolkit: https://bit.ly/457zjSlTimestamps:00:00 - Amazon Seller Fears in 2025: Why Business Is at Risk00:10 - The Reality of Amazon Account Suspensions00:23 - How Sellers Are Overcoming Amazon's Brutal Challenges01:04 - Client Testimonials: Why Our Clients Trust Us02:09 - How We Handle Amazon Issues for Sellers02:43 - The Peace of Mind That Comes with Expert Support03:43 - How We Help Amazon Sellers Focus on Their Brand, Not the Stress----------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

Send us a textThe world of Amazon selling in 2025 is drastically different, and it's harder than ever to succeed. In this video, Steven Pope discusses the biggest challenges Amazon sellers face today - from China direct sellers to private label struggles. He shares insights into how you can overcome the competitive landscape and stay ahead in the game.One of the key changes that can impact sellers in 2025 is China's tax regulations, which will level the playing field for Amazon sellers competing against Chinese manufacturers. While it's harder than ever to create a lookalike brand, there are still opportunities to create unique products and innovate your way to success, as shown by  @ZipStringHQ   success on Shark Tank.Don't wait for 2025's challenges to hit, schedule a call now and learn how to stay competitive on Amazon! https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonSelling2025 #PrivateLabelStruggles #AmazonSellingTips #AmazonChallenges----------------------------------------------------------------------Want free resources? Dowload our Free Amazon guides here:Q4 Selling Playbook: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm3 2025 Ecommerce Holiday Playbook: https://bit.ly/4hbygov Amazon PPC Guide 2025: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYX 2025 Ecommerce Holiday Playbook: https://bit.ly/4hbygovAmazon Crisis Kit: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Amazon SEO Toolkit: https://bit.ly/457zjSlTimestamps:00:00 - Amazon Sellers' Challenges in 202500:25 - China's Tax Changes and How They Affect Amazon Sellers01:02 - Is Private Label Still Possible in 2025?01:35 - The Secret to Success: Creating a New Product Genre02:12 - Why Agencies Fail to Automate and How It Hurts Amazon Sellers02:54 - The Importance of Process Over Expertise in Scaling on Amazon03:39 - Recruitment Tips for Growing Your Amazon Team in 2025----------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss how best to maximize your Q4 sales!

In this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, Eitan Koter sits down with Andrew Maff, founder and CEO of BlueTuskr. Andrew has worked inside ecommerce brands and now leads a team that supports them across ads, SEO, Amazon strategy, and more.Eitan and Andrew talk about why relying on one sales channel, especially Amazon, can put a brand at risk. Andrew explains how to diversify in small steps, how to test demand before building a full website, and how to use SEO to bring in traffic that Amazon rewards.They also get into rising ad costs, how real shoppers move across platforms, and why a top down view of performance makes more sense than chasing ROAS in each channel.Andrew closes with advice for Q4 and beyond. He shares how to keep new customers engaged in the new year without pushing constant discounts.A simple and clear conversation about building a more stable ecommerce business.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter's LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: Andrew Maff, Founder at BlueTuskrAndrew Maff's LinkedIn | BlueTuskrWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/j0eAcX4lsi4Takeaways:Diversification is essential for e-commerce brands.Brands should not rely solely on Amazon for sales.Understanding your customer acquisition channels is crucial.SEO can significantly enhance DTC and Amazon performance.Bootstrapping your DTC strategy can save costs.Providing value to customers is key for retention.Video marketing is effective for engaging younger audiences.

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss the Amazon buy box!

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss what to expect when launching an Amazon product!

On today's episode, we discuss the most common questions that we hear from, especially the newest members of our community who are considering launching an Amazon business using the strategies we've taught to so many.  The list of questions includes : What's the opportunity? What exactly will I be selling? Why is this model preferred over other models? What's the future look like for this model What are the risks of the Amazon model that you teach? Do I need any previous experience? What's the cost to get started? Will I be sourcing or handling the products myself? What other models are available to me besides the one you teach initially? What free help is available to me? How do I get started? Watch this episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/SbouqrP8KWg   Check. out our sponsor:  eCommerce Accounting LLC Cindy Smith's Proven Accounting Training inside our Proven Amazon Course has helped thousands of you, and her team can handle your books completely, plus help with income tax prep and tax planning. Remote, professional, eCommerce-focused. Visit bit.ly/ECAMeet to schedule a time with her team today.   Show note LINKS: 3PMercury.com - Our best price 3pmercury.com/friends My Silent Team Facebook group. 100% FREE! https://www.facebook.com/groups/mysilentteam - Join 82,000 + Facebook members from around the world who are using the internet creatively every day to launch and grow multiple income streams through our exciting PROVEN strategies! There's no support community like this one anywhere else in the world! ProvenAmazonCourse.com - The comprehensive course that contains ALL our Amazon training modules, recorded events and a steady stream of latest cutting edge training including of course the most popular starting point, the REPLENS selling model. The PAC is updated free for life! Contact us anytime! Phone: 1-800-994-1792 Text: 385-284-7701 Schedule a call: SilentJim.com/bookacall

In this episode, let's talk about how AI is transforming Amazon selling, from product research and listings to ads, Rufus optimization, and TikTok Shop growth.

Send us a textYouTube helped My Amazon Guy grow its first $10 million by turning niche content into sales calls. Answering real questions through video built trust and created higher conversions than cold outreach. Learn how this simple video strategy can bring long-term results without spending on ads.Build a real inbound pipeline, start with your first video and let your prospects come to you: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxuDominate this Q4, download the Ultimate Q4 Playbook for Amazon Sellers: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm3#AmazonMarketing #YouTubeSalesTips #AmazonFBA #VideoMarketing #EcommerceGrowthWatch these videos on YouTube:https://youtu.be/5GRLt5cyw_Ehttps://youtu.be/WukdCZ6WVbc-----------------------------------------------Tired of marketplace limits? Let's talk real growth with ecommerce strategy: https://bit.ly/4kOz6rrStop wasting ad spend. Grab the PPC guide that actually drives results: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXRank higher and sell faster, get the SEO tools built for real growth: https://bit.ly/3JyMDGoBe ready before problems hit, download the kit every brand should have: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Timestamps00:00 - Why YouTube Is a Must for Sellers  00:18 - The Video That Started It All  00:32 - How YouTube Drove $10 Million in Sales  00:41 - Why YouTube Converts Better Than Sales Calls  01:06 - When Steven's Dad Took Over Sales  01:45 - Using Live Q&As to Build Trust  02:13 - The Power of Good Thumbnails  02:45 - Ranking #1 with Simple Video Content  03:01 - Shoot a Video for Every Question  03:29 - YouTube Is Cheap, Scalable, and Long-Term  03:56 - Why You Need to Watch Your Own Sales Tape  04:19 - The Real Problem: Identifying Prospects  04:35 - How to DM and Book Calls via LinkedIn  05:00 - Why Boring, Niche Videos Work Best----------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

In this episode of the Fearless Sellers podcast, host Joie Roberts speaks with Hitha Herzog, chief research officer at H Squared Research, about the current landscape of retail intelligence and consumer behavior. They discuss key trends that Amazon sellers need to be aware of, including the resilience of consumers, the importance of understanding credit card spending, and the role of influencers in shaping purchasing decisions. Herzog emphasizes the need for sellers to marry brand performance with data insights and to leverage AI for dynamic pricing strategies. The conversation also touches on the missed opportunities in Amazon storefronts and the importance of staying informed about market trends to succeed in the competitive retail environment.   Takeaways Retail sales in the U.S. grew by 5% year over year, exceeding expectations. Consumers are resilient despite economic uncertainties, particularly older generations. Gen Z and millennials are more cautious with credit card spending due to limited savings. Amazon sellers should focus on credit card spending trends to inform their strategies. Marrying brand messaging with performance data is crucial for long-term success. Influencers continue to play a significant role in consumer purchasing decisions. Dynamic pricing on Amazon can change rapidly, requiring sellers to stay agile. AI can help sellers optimize their pricing strategies and marketing efforts. Sellers should analyze geographic demographics to better target their products. Staying informed through business news is essential for understanding market trends.  

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss how to increase your Amazon conversion rate!

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss how to use ChatGPT for product research!

Send us a textQ4 is the make-or-break moment for Amazon sellers. Learn how to optimize your PPC and ad campaigns for Black Friday and Cyber Monday to boost your sales. We'll show you how to target new customers, adjust your bids, and avoid common mistakes that could cost you profits.Download the Ultimate Q4 Playbook for Amazon Sellers. Maximize your sales with our step-by-step holiday strategy: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm3Ready to dominate Q4? Book a call now to get personalized advice on maximizing your holiday sales: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonSellers #Q4Success #BlackFridaySales #CyberMondayStrategy #ecommercegrowth Watch these videos on YouTube:What It's Really Like Starting a Brand on Amazon From Nothing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4JE5CoNK0AThis Is the Best Way to Start Amazon Ads for a New Product: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnyErLXEDj4&t=13s-----------------------------------------------Tired of marketplace limits? Let's talk real growth with ecommerce strategy: https://bit.ly/4kOz6rrStop wasting ad spend. Grab the PPC guide that actually drives results: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXRank higher and sell faster, get the SEO tools built for real growth: https://bit.ly/3JyMDGoBe ready before problems hit, download the kit every brand should have: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to Q4: How it can make or break your business00:40 - Why Sales and Impressions Drop in Early Q4 (October to November)01:45 - Understanding Consumer Behavior and Waiting for Black Friday Deals02:40 - Avoid Panic: The Worst Mistake Sellers Make in Early Q403:20 - How to Optimize Budgets and Bids During Slow Periods04:05 - Using Brand Tailored Promotions for New Customer Acquisition04:45 - The Power of Audience Group Advertising in Amazon Ads05:25 - Best Audience Segments to Target During the Holiday Season06:10 - Leveraging Amazon Marketing Cloud for Audience Targeting07:00 - Retargeting Cart Abandoners: A Strategy for Boosting Conversions07:50 - High-Value Customer Segments: Targeting Big Spenders for Q408:35 - Optimizing Ads During Black Friday & Cyber Monday: Key Tips09:15 - Lowering Bids to Avoid Wasting Budget During the Holiday Rush09:55 - How to Set Up New Campaigns Early for Black Friday and Cyber Monday10:35 - Final Tips for Effective Q4 Campaigns and Optimizing Sales----------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

Harnessing the Power of DesignLoop: Elevating Your Amazon Listing Strategy Episode Overview In this episode, Danny McMillan discusses the pitfalls of relying solely on AI for design automation, emphasizing the importance of human creativity in the design process. He introduces DesignLoop, a tool designed to help sellers generate high-quality images and videos while maintaining a human touch. This episode explores ai in design automation, importance of human creativity in marketing with practical insights for immediate implementation. We've been building DesignLoop, a human-in-the-loop creative studio for images and video. I'll roll it out to the community soon - you just plug in your API keys and pay for what you use. No subscriptions, and here's the bonus: it's actually a lot cheaper than plugging directly into OpenAI and Google.       We have had a few delays, scrapping it three times in the last few weeks and then building it again.       The upside? We've built in a video storyboard Framework with rhythm-based pacing and multi-shot sequences, image recognition with Claude Vision, system logic level prompts tuned to each model, slash commands with a prompt library, and plenty of guardrails reducing expensive sling - shot slop, all while being significantly cheaper per second. Key Takeaways Design cannot be fully automated; human creativity and judgment are crucial in the design process, especially for marketing effectiveness. Having a breadth of quality assets can significantly enhance the design and marketing processes, reducing costs and improving results. Chapter Markers Time Chapter Description 00:01 Introduction to DesignLoop Danny introduces DesignLoop, highlighting its purpose to avoid generic designs often produced by AI, and stresses the need for human expertise in the creative process. 02:17 The Importance of Human Involvement Danny discusses the critical role humans play in design, particularly for creating effective marketing assets that convert customers. 04:27 Critiques of Current Marketing Strategies Danny critiques the common approach of saturating listings with visuals, arguing for more thoughtful design that resonates with customers. 06:32 Why DesignLoop is Free Danny explains his motivation for offering DesignLoop for free, focusing on supporting sellers and enhancing the overall industry. 10:42 Demonstration of Outputs Danny demonstrates the capabilities of DesignLoop, showcasing the assets generated and discussing the process behind creating effective videos. 24:14 Pacing and Dynamics in Video Creation Danny elaborates on the aspects of pacing and dynamics in video production, emphasizing their significance in delivering impactful content. 49:39 Final Thoughts on Automation Danny wraps up by discussing the future of automation in design and the importance of retaining a human element for quality outcomes. Notable Quotes "The heartbeat of the industry is the seller; we need to support you." Resources Mentioned

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss the steps to page ONE on Amazom!

Today's guest is a successful ProvenAmazonCourse.com student who is also excited about what he's achieved as one of our coaching students. After decades of full-time ministry, he's now entering into a new season in his 70s, and he's building an incredible business online! You'll meet Keith in this episode - and he's about to have his first five-figure sales month! He breaks down all the details of the process and gives us some great insights into what it takes to succeed with an Amazon selling business. His plans are to build a seven-figure business and automate/outsource the entire operation as so many others have done. Check out this episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/Ouasqe-6JdA Don't forget to check out our episode sponsor Sellerboard, our awesome sponsor - THE accurate profit analytics tool for Amazon sellers that helps you calculate your profit precisely accounting for all hidden fees and in real time. Use our link and get a TWO month free trial: https://SilentJim.com/numbers Show note LINKS: My Silent Team Facebook group. 100% FREE! https://www.facebook.com/groups/mysilentteam - Join 82,000 + Facebook members from around the world who are using the internet creatively every day to launch and grow multiple income streams through our exciting PROVEN strategies! There's no support community like this one anywhere else in the world! SilentJim.com/bookacall - Schedule a FREE, customized and insightful consultation with my team or me (Jim) to discuss your e-commerce goals and options. ProvenAmazonCourse.com - The comprehensive course that contains ALL our Amazon training modules, recorded events and a steady stream of latest cutting edge training including of course the most popular starting point, the REPLENS selling model. The PAC is updated free for life! SilentJim.com/kickstart - The low-cost step-by-step group coaching classes for new ProvenAmazonCourse.com students JeffSchick.com - Our resident community legal advisor Arbisource - Get the "one week free" offer SilentJim.com/arb Nepeto - SilentJim.com/oaleads Today's guest: Keith Burrows

Black Friday 2025 is right around the corner. There are new Q4 features to help you and customers drive record sales this holiday season, and next-gen delivery is here.

In this episode, the FBA University boys discuss the best ways to get reviews fast!

Send us a textThis video ranks the top 10 most commented clips from past tutorials for Amazon sellers. From keyword mistakes to account verification issues, these tips triggered the most feedback. Learn what got sellers engaged and which topics sparked the strongest reactions.Tired of second-guessing your Amazon setup? Book a strategy call and fix what's costing you sales: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu Crush your end-of-year goals with the Q4 playbook top sellers use to prep for peak season: https://bit.ly/46Wqkm3Prep your ecommerce brand for holiday sales with the 2025 Ecommerce Playbook sellers trust: https://bit.ly/4hbygovWant to watch each videos? Here's the list:Top 10: Amazon Listing Optimization [Master Class] Why the Top Sellers Need to Optimize More: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4okSNx5yLsTop 9: SOLVED: How to Fix Secondary Images / Photos NOT Displaying on Amazon FBA (Load UPC): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuhFVVwXvYoTop 8: How to Create an Amazon Store Brand Storefront: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BBiOaMehpcTop 7: How to Clear Pesticides Gating Amazon Seller Central (Answer Key): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRbsQvqV3t0Top 6: Seller Identity Verification SIV process for registering Amazon Seller account to sell in USA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHUQ33FZdCcTop 5: How to Set Deposit Method in Seller Central (Bank Account Setup): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIwNlnLH6NQTop 4: Amazon Seller Identity Verification - Now with Live Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOQALWbVh_ETop 3: SOLVED: Connecting Brand Registry to Seller Central Account: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxPh0id95RgTop 2: I Dry Fasted for 3 Days - How it Helps Me Become a Better Leader: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSEtlM6RXB0Top 1: Amazon PPC [Master Class] - ACOS Hacks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gudIjpDMLto-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Stay ahead of platform shifts, download the PPC guide sellers are using to adapt fast: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXDon't wait for customer drop-offs, download the Crisis Kit and protect your listings now: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Stop chasing retail gimmicks, get serious about DTC and grow a brand you control: https://bit.ly/4kOz6rrTimestamps00:00 - Why Showing Faces on Listings Drives Sales  00:16 - Product ID Type Field Cannot Be Changed  00:27 - Plug and Play Storefront Setup  00:53 - HubSpot-Style Template Use on Amazon  01:01 - How to Pass the Pesticides Gating Test  01:20 - Common Mistakes When Uploading Documents  01:30 - Fixing Deposit Method in Seller Central  01:51 - What Happens During Amazon's Live Video Call  02:17 - Brand Registry Not Connecting to Seller Central  02:43 - Turning the Body Off and On Again: Account Recovery  03:03 - What to Do With Performing Keywords in Auto Campaigns-------------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

In this episode, we discuss how the next two years will redefine Amazon seller success. From AI and data to smarter testing, learn what it takes to stay ahead in the fastest-changing e-commerce era.   Join us on this episode as we explore the journey of Anthony Cofrancesco, a trailblazer in the e-commerce industry. Listen in as Anthony recounts his experiences from founding a conversion optimization agency for Amazon sellers to becoming a prominent speaker and e-commerce expert. He shares valuable insights from his early entrepreneurial days in Asia, where he co-founded a company focused on enhancing Amazon listings through graphics, video, and copywriting services. Discover how living in the Philippines, amidst a vibrant entrepreneurial community, allowed Anthony to significantly grow his business, eventually leading to the acquisition of his agency and his remarkable success with PickFu.   In a fascinating discussion on A/B testing, Anthony reveals how integrating testing into business strategies can drive substantial growth. Hear about his journey with PickFu and how strategic A/B testing helped brands like Thrasio's Angry Orange and Pink Miracle achieve remarkable sales increases. Anthony underscores the importance of moving beyond gut instincts, emphasizing that the initial investment in testing can yield significant long-term benefits. Learn how continual experimentation and rigorous testing can be the keys to success in today's competitive e-commerce landscape.   The conversation also explores the future of e-commerce, highlighting the evolving role of AI in streamlining business execution for Amazon sellers. Anthony discusses the challenges faced by sellers in navigating the overwhelming amount of information and how AI can revolutionize this space, enabling more efficient expansion across platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and retail. As the market becomes increasingly complex, Anthony stresses the need for sellers to adopt sophisticated systems and processes to maintain a competitive edge. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic nature of e-commerce and the pivotal role of execution in achieving business success.   In episode 470 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Anthony discuss: 00:00 - From Graphics to Data 02:07 - Business Partnership in the Philippines  08:39 - A/B Testing Discoveries and Results 17:11 - Using PickFu for Faster Market Research 20:16 - Optimizing Image Order for Conversions 22:18 - The Changing Landscape of Amazon Selling 27:19 - Maximizing Execution for Business Growth 35:46 - Future of Amazon Business Analytics, Execution, and Education 44:46 - Future of Consumer Spending and AI

In this episode of Lunch With Norm, we sit down with Ian Page, founder of Bullseye Sellers, to unpack the growing influence of TikTok Shop on Amazon sellers and whether you should make the jump. We cover everything from TikTok's search impact on Amazon, to viral brand strategies, to the real ROI of building on TikTok Shop in 2025. Discover what product types are crushing it, what niches are wasting their time, and the one thing most sellers get completely wrong about TikTok. Ian also reveals how TikTok's top-of-funnel ad model with a built-in shopping cart is changing the game, why the halo effect is stronger than you think, and how to know if your brand is ready. Whether you're at 7 figures or just getting started, this episode delivers blunt, honest guidance for deciding if TikTok Shop is your next revenue channel.

In this episode, we dive into how AI is reshaping Amazon store management and the critical importance of focusing on profitability over just top-line revenue. Jerry Vida, Co-founder of Peak ROAS, shares how his agency helps seven- and eight-figure brands scale by leveraging AI to streamline time-consuming tasks like PPC and listing optimization. He explains why a clean ad account structure eliminates wasted ad spend and offers a 90-day profit guarantee for new clients.Topics discussed in this episode:  How focusing on profitability beats chasing top-line revenue.Why PPC optimization and listing updates are the biggest time bandits.Why manual, repetitive tasks hurt business growth and efficiency.How internally built AI agents streamline listing copy and A/B testing.What an aggressive A-B testing schedule does for conversion rates.How restructuring a messy ad account leads to massive profit jumps.What is required for an ideal customer for high-impact changes.Why an ad account restructure redirects up to 70% of wasted spend.How new sellers can use ChatGPT to get up to speed fast.What a 90-day no-risk profit guarantee means for new clients.Links & Resources Website:  https://peakroas.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-vida-255719126/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peakroas/Get access to more free resources by visiting the show notes at https://tinyurl.com/mr2rpb9u______________________________________________________ LOVE THE SHOW? HERE ARE THE NEXT STEPS! Follow the podcast to get every bonus episode. Tap follow now and don't miss out! Rate & Review: Help others discover the show by rating the show on Apple Podcasts at https://tinyurl.com/ecb-apple-podcasts Join our Free Newsletter: https://newsletter.ecommercecoffeebreak.com/ Support The Show On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EcommerceCoffeeBreak Partner with us: https://ecommercecoffeebreak.com/podcast-sponsorship/

The Bandits are BACK just in time for Q4!

What does Amazon corporate think of resellers and what are they doing to address the most common pain points sellers face? I recently recorded a webinar with Yoda Yee, the founder and CEO of ThreeColts to dive into the topic of how Amazon resellers are being treated by Amazon. Overall, we both have a very positive outlook on several fundamental topics such as: >The bright future of reselling on Amazon >The increased attention Amazon is paying to reseller issues that serve the best interest of customers, Amazon itself as well as sellers >The latest news on what changes Amazon has planned in our favor and what's already been done Topics covered >What are the biggest challenges Amazon sellers are facing and what is Amazon corporate doing about it! >Gating / ungating issues >Maximum pricing transparency is coming from Amazon >Counterfeit without a test buy - what's up with that? >Gray market vs. counterfeit >what about used books? >Much more   Watch this episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/Be57F17mhZ8   Show note LINKS: SilentJim.com/bookacall - Schedule a FREE, customized and insightful consultation with my team or me (Jim) to discuss your e-commerce goals and options.   My Silent Team Facebook group. 100% FREE! https://www.facebook.com/groups/mysilentteam - Join 82,000 + Facebook members from around the world who are using the internet creatively every day to launch and grow multiple income streams through our exciting PROVEN strategies! There's no support community like this one anywhere else in the world!   ProvenAmazonCourse.com - The comprehensive course that contains ALL our Amazon training modules, recorded events and a steady stream of latest cutting edge training including of course the most popular starting point, the REPLENS selling model. The PAC is updated free for life!   SilentJim.com/365  - Our community link to ThreeColts services for a free trial   Three Colts resources: 365 / InventoryLab Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/inventorylab/ Amazon Seller 365 Community on Discord: https://discord.gg/ZHS9AAKSG4https://discord.gg/ZHS9AAKSG4   Today's guest: Yoda founder of ThreeColts who also worked for Amazon for several years.

He's back! Tomer Rabinovich reveals his latest e-commerce strategies, including mastering PPC, TikTok launches, optimization, and creative packaging, as well as a few magic tricks for achieving viral success.

Send us a textAmazon has limited Vine to just 30 reviews per product, removing the multi-variation strategy sellers relied on. Reviews alone won't drive performance, especially when they're slow, risky, and often average under 4 stars. This video breaks down why review count at launch isn't the priority many believe it is.Worried Vine reviews are ruining your launch? Talk to our team before you burn more money: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxuReady to grow outside of just marketplaces? Book a brand growth call now: https://bit.ly/470KXxF#AmazonReviews #VineReviews #AmazonSellers #FBAAdvice #amazonlaunch Watch these videos on YouTube:Improve Search Rank and Drive Growth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyeMk5p-oww&list=PLDkvNlz8yl_b9RMGmU9XeqkI9D7QDOAI8&index=2The Easy Way to Find Amazon Keywords That Rank: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kmBZPid_iA&list=PLDkvNlz8yl_b9RMGmU9XeqkI9D7QDOAI8&index=3-----------------------------------------------Stop wasting ad spend. Download the PPC Guide and start running profitable Amazon ads: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXStruggling to rank products? Grab the SEO Toolkit and fix your product visibility fast: https://bit.ly/3JyMDGoDon't wait for the next policy change. Get the Amazon Crisis Kit before issues strike: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Timestamps:00:00 - Can You Still Use Vine for 90+ Reviews?00:11 - Amazon Limits Vine Reviews to 30 per Product00:25 - Warning About Viral Products and Trends01:32 - Is the Vine Hack with Variations Dead?02:43 - Why Amazon Is Removing Vine Reviews03:08 - Why You Might Not Get All 30 Vine Reviews04:07 - Are Mid-Range Star Ratings a Problem at Launch?05:00 - Cost of Vine vs Launching a Smaller Variation06:06 - Safer Ways to Get Reviews Without Breaking Rules07:27 - Do Launch Reviews Even Matter That Much?07:42 - Focus on Sales, Not Just Reviews08:13 - The Risk of Low Ratings from Vine at Launch08:30 - Final Thoughts: Why Vine Might Not Be Worth It----------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

Send us a textBuilding a brand on Amazon is more than chasing big sales numbers. This podcast episode dives into realistic expectations, product selection, and why passion helps sellers connect with their audience. Listeners will hear valuable insights about margins, pricing, and the importance of learning the basics before scaling.Scale beyond Amazon, book your ecommerce growth call now: https://bit.ly/4kOz6rr#AmazonSellers #EcommerceTips #BrandBuilding #AmazonSelling #SellersJourneyWatch these videos on YouTube:Improve Search Rank and Drive Growth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyeMk5p-oww&list=PLDkvNlz8yl_b9RMGmU9XeqkI9D7QDOAI8&index=2The Easy Way to Find Amazon Keywords That Rank: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kmBZPid_iA&list=PLDkvNlz8yl_b9RMGmU9XeqkI9D7QDOAI8&index=3-----------------------------------------------Stop wasting ad spend, download our PPC guide now: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXFix your rankings fast, get the SEO toolkit today: https://bit.ly/3JyMDGoBe ready before disaster hits, grab the Amazon Crisis Kit: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Timestamps:00:00 - Amazon's Push for Higher Spending  00:24 - New 15% and 20% Subscribe & Save Discounts  01:12 - Why Sellers Can't Afford These Discounts  02:01 - The Impact on Customer Lifetime Value  02:37 - Who Benefits and Who Loses From This Change  03:02 - Final Thoughts on Amazon's Discount Push  ----------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

Unlocking the Power of MCPs for Amazon Sellers Episode Overview In this episode, Danny McMillan explores the fundamentals of using MCPs (Multi-Channel Processors) for Amazon sellers, emphasizing that it's entirely manageable with basic skills. He illustrates practical applications and innovative strategies to leverage MCPs to optimize operations and increase margins in the competitive marketplace. This episode explores mcp optimization for amazon sellers, ai tools for operational efficiency with practical insights for immediate implementation. Key Takeaways Utilizing MCPs does not require advanced technical skills, allowing sellers to leverage AI for better operational efficiency. The importance of vetting sources before installing tools to ensure reliability and effectiveness in business processes. Chapter Markers Time Chapter Description 00:01 Introduction to MCPs Danny introduces the episode's focus on MCPs for Amazon sellers and aims to demystify their use through practical demonstrations. 02:28 Using AI Effectively Danny discusses the limitations Amazon sellers face, including rising costs and inefficiencies, and emphasizes using AI tools to enhance operational capabilities. 05:10 Setting Up Connections Danny explains how to set up connections using Claude and navigate through the necessary settings for efficient MCP use. 11:26 Choosing Trusted Sources Emphasizing the importance of reputable sources, Danny advises on how to vet MCPs effectively to avoid potential pitfalls. 21:18 Experimenting with Chrome MCP Danny tests the capabilities of the Chrome MCP, exploring ways to conduct research and navigate challenges that arise. 30:56 Building Workflow Danny concludes by encouraging listeners to develop personalized workflows with MCPs and address operational challenges, stressing the importance of asking the right questions. Notable Quotes "All you need to do is ask questions and get Claude to do it." Resources Mentioned

Did you know nearly half of online reviews are suspicious, with fake reviews projected to influence $787 billion in consumer spending by 2025? In this episode, Shane Barker — CEO and founder of TraceFuse, the first Amazon TOS-compliant negative review removal system — explains the scale of the problem and how his solution is helping sellers fight back.Shane shares:- Why fake reviews damage brands and consumer trust- How TraceFuse uses AI and compliance-based filings to remove unfair reviews- The real financial impact of even a half-star rating drop- Why both startups and big brands should take reviews seriouslyIf you sell on Amazon, you can't afford to miss this conversation.Connect with Shane:- Website: https://tracefuse.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebarker/Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one.Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487dApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeithFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: sponsorships@wherewithstudio.com#AmazonSeller #AmazonFBA #EcommerceGrowth #AmazonBusiness #SellerTips #EcommerceMarketing #OnlineSelling #FBACommunity #FakeReviews #ProductReviews #ReviewManagement #ReputationManagement #AmazonReviews #AmazonTools #TraceFuse #CustomerTrust #EntrepreneurLife #StartupTips #SmallBusinessGrowth #DigitalMarketing #BusinessTools #OnlineBusiness

In this episode of the Gloria Chou PR Podcast, Gloria dives into one of the biggest shifts happening right now in online visibility—the rise of AI-powered search and shopping—and what it means for small business owners.Forget algorithms and paid ads. Gloria breaks down how organic earned media—like podcast features, gift guides, and backlinks from top outlets—is now more powerful than ever in helping AI recommend your brand.If you want to future-proof your business in the age of ChatGPT and Perplexity, this episode is your roadmap.Why AI Visibility Is the New PR MetricGloria explains why being discoverable inside AI is now the ultimate growth lever. If your brand isn't showing up in AI search results, you're invisible to millions of potential customers.She shares how she herself became the top result for “#1 small business PR coach” on AI platforms—without spending a dime on SEO—just by using strategic PR visibility and consistent pitching.How to Use AI Tools to Get Featured FasterGloria reveals her go-to workflow for writing and researching the perfect pitch using Perplexity and ChatGPT—and how founders can land press features in under five minutes.Tools and tactics she covers:Perplexity: for real-time journalist research and trend insightsChatGPT or Claude: for refining your final pitch copyThe CPR Method: Gloria's proven formula for pitching with Credibility, Point of View, and RelevanceThe Evergreen PR System That Feeds Your SEOPR isn't one-and-done. Gloria shares how one feature can be turned into dozens of content pieces—newsletters, reels, blog posts, and backlinks that strengthen your SEO and AI ranking.She breaks down how founders can create an interconnected web of links through: ✅ Media pages showcasing features ✅ Repurposed podcast interviews ✅ Press releases indexed on GoogleFinal TakeawayPR is no longer just about getting featured—it's about being found.To win in the age of AI search, you need: ✅ Consistent, earned visibility ✅ Updated content across all platforms ✅ A clear, unified brand storyWhen AI knows who you are, your customers will too.www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass to get the LATEST strategies to dominate AI search, get featured in gift guides and make more sales!

Send us a textThis video explains how sellers should allocate ad budgets in 2025 across sponsored products, DSP, display, and other platforms. It highlights when to use ads for conversion versus brand awareness, the importance of keyword strategy, and why diversification into DTC, TikTok, and influencer content is more critical than ever.Not sure if your ad spend is actually working? Book a call and get a strategy that stops wasting money: https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonAds #PPCStrategy #Ecommerce2025 #AmazonSellers #DTCgrowthWatch these videos on YouTube:Amazon PPC Tier List Management Rankings https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9s9vjtU5l4&list=PLDkvNlz8yl_a1PRDJWRoR4yIM8K5Ft569&utm_content=342357286&utm_medium=social&utm_source=youtube&hss_channel=ytc-UClUSEsDS2sdgNJfCcCM_5UwWhy Turning Off Ads Kills Sales and Rankings on Amazon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fp5fCd0i7ts&list=PLDkvNlz8yl_a1PRDJWRoR4yIM8K5Ft569&index=2&utm_content=342357286&utm_medium=social&utm_source=youtube&hss_channel=ytc-UClUSEsDS2sdgNJfCcCM_5Uw--------------------------------------------------Start building your DTC channel outside of Amazon. Download the DTC Growth Stack and take control of your brand: https://bit.ly/4p7TyqjStop wasting ad spend. Grab the PPC guide that actually drives results: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXRank higher and sell faster, get the SEO tools built for real growth: https://bit.ly/3JyMDGoBe ready before problems hit, download the kit every brand should have: https://bit.ly/4maWHn0Timestamps00:00 – Why Ad Budgets Are Scattered Across Platforms00:12 – Ad Budget Split by Brand Size00:42 – Market Share vs Customer Conversion Goals01:18 – Dayparting and Customer Shopping Behavior02:02 – Why Broad Match Is Underrated in 202502:39 – The Rule: Never Negate a Good Keyword03:01 – Weekly Negations and Ad Software03:27 – Why Advertising Should Be Outsourced04:10 – Scaling Ad Budgets the Right Way04:50 – Frequency of Ad Edits and Seasonal Updates05:10 – Backup Ads and Catalog Data Like an Agency06:04 – Expanding Beyond Amazon to DTC06:54 – Growth from Google, Facebook, TikTok, and Websites07:10 – Why DTC Lets You Own the Customer07:42 – AI Ads Will Change Everything in 202508:17 – TikTok Growth and Challenges for Sellers08:44 – The Rise of UGC and Influencer Advertising09:19 – Why Most Brands Can't Learn New Platforms Alone09:53 – The Big Shift: Diversifying Off Amazon, Not Into Europe----------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

In this episode, I sit down with Norm Farrar, one of the most respected voices in ecommerce and Amazon selling. We dive into what's actually working right now, from building brands that command higher prices to avoiding the traps that cause most sellers to fail whether it's DTC or Amazon. What You’ll Learn Why most sellers crash and burn on Amazon The simple shifts top earners are making right now How to future-proof your Amazon biz in 2025 Sponsors SellersSummit.com – The Sellers Summit is the ecommerce conference that I’ve run for the past 8 years. It’s small and intimate […] The post 608: Why Most Amazon Sellers Will Fail In 2025 (And What Winners Do Differently) With Norm Farrar appeared first on MyWifeQuitHerJob.com.

Dave dives into the world of fake Amazon reviews by purchasing a fake review for himself. He shares where he found a review broker, what the requirements were to purchase reviews, and the shocking surprise he found after.  We get a lot of spam in our Facebook groups about "review groups".  Its become so prevalent that we decided to actually dig in and see how their whole operation works.  And we did exactly just that.  In this episode, Dave goes through the experience of buying a fake review and exposes what the full capabilities of review brokers are, where they are from, and how they manage to dodge Amazon. If you're a seller on Amazon or if you're tired seeing odd reviews for products that aren't really that exciting, this episode is for you.  Timestamps 00:00 - Diving into the World of Fake Amazon Reviews 12:12 - The Mechanics of Review Brokerages 17:32 - The Scale of the Problem and Amazon's Response As always, if you have any questions or anything that you need help with, leave a comment down below if you're interested. Don't forget to leave us a review on iTunes if you enjoy our content. Thanks for listening! Until next time, happy selling!

For over 10 years, I've given some pretty hardlined advice in regards to the use of "leads lists" and "buy lists" for Amazon sellers. My basic advice has been to only use them if you are extremely experienced or flat-out crazy.   These lists are compiled by those who claim they've "done the research for you," and you can just go purchase everything on the list and make money! Baloney!!   Today, I explain why I am now fully on board with using leads lists if you have the budget for them!   What's changed? I'll explain in the episode, but the bottom line is 3PMercury and ProvenAmazonCourse.com training have caused a disruptive earthquake of opportunity for sellers!   Leads lists are now paying off in big ways for those who know how to use them properly. I explain how to use them properly on today's episode.   Watch the episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/tXvwJDijZwI   Show note LINKS:   SilentJim.com/bookacall - Schedule a FREE, customized and insightful consultation with my team or me (Jim) to discuss your e-commerce goals and options.   My Silent Team Facebook group. 100% FREE! https://www.facebook.com/groups/mysilentteam  Join 82,000 + Facebook members from around the world who are using the internet creatively every day to launch and grow multiple income streams through our exciting PROVEN strategies! There's no support community like this one anywhere else in the world!   ProvenAmazonCourse.com - The comprehensive course that contains ALL our Amazon training modules, recorded events and a steady stream of latest cutting edge training including of course the most popular starting point, the REPLENS selling model. The PAC is updated free for life!   3pmercury.com/friends- The best price anywhere on 3PMercury.com subscription   SilentJim.com/oac- My favorite leads list    

Stop bleeding profit. Most Amazon sellers obsess over ads and keywords, but logistics is the silent factor that decides whether you keep your margins — or hand them over to Amazon in fees. Try SteadyStock for free at: https://www.steadystock.io/   In this episode of Built by Business with Andy Isom, Andy breaks down why storage, shipping, and fulfillment fees quietly eat into profits, and how optimizing logistics can have a bigger impact on your bottom line than tweaking your PPC strategy.   You'll learn how to:   Identify hidden Amazon fees (storage utilization, placement service, low-inventory). Optimize inbound, storage, and fulfillment for lower costs. Treat logistics like PPC — a process you manage weekly.   Revenue is vanity. Profit is sanity. Cash is king. And logistics is where you protect it.   For a free Amazon Brand Audit, head to www.weavos.io and get 3 custom action steps to grow profitably.