Podcasts about ecom

AI isn't coming, it's already here. And if it's not driving 25% of your brand's revenue, you're already behind. Nik sits down with Liam Millward, founder and CEO of Instant, the platform powering the next generation of AI-driven email and retention marketing. Liam started Instant at 17, went head-to-head with Shopify, and pivoted into a billion-dollar problem: brands wasting time on email marketing that barely moves the needle. Now, Instant's AI writes, designs, and personalizes every email—no two shoppers ever get the same message twice. Liam breaks down how Instant became one of the fastest-growing AI tools in eCommerce, the difference between generative and agentic AI, and why most brands are still treating AI like a toy instead of a team member. If you're a founder, marketer, or operator trying to figure out where AI actually fits in your business, this is your roadmap. What's Instant? They're the secret weapon to triple your email revenue with AI-powered flows. Instead of blasting the same cart reminders to everyone, Instant ensure every shopper gets a unique email experience: Copy, products, and offers that adapt to your shopper's behavior in real time. Emails sent at the exact moment that shopper is most likely to buy. 11+ abandonment flows live in minutes. Book a demo by Oct 31 to get 50% off your first 60 days. Make this BFCM your biggest one yet: ⁠⁠⁠⁠instant.one/limited⁠ Want more DTC advice? Check out the Limited Supply YouTube page for more insider tips.   Check out the Nik's DTC newsletter: https://bit.ly/3mOUJMJ   And if you're looking for an instant stream of on-demand DTC gold, check out the Limited Supply Slack Channel for Nik's most unfiltered, uncensored thoughts.   Follow Nik: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mrsharma

Shelley Gupta is the Founder & CEO of BāKIT Box, a STEM-based baking kit bringing global flavors and cultural traditions into homes across America. Her path to CPG began far from the kitchen as a recording artist signed to EMI Music before earning her CFA, an MBA from Chicago Booth, and leading strategy work at Accenture.Blending creativity with financial rigor, Shelley turned a casual conversation with a homeschooling parent into a breakthrough channel, now approved as an official curriculum in 14 states. In this episode, she shares how that discovery reshaped her subscription strategy, why flexibility beats lock-in for retention, and how understanding the real buyer (not just the user) transformed her business.Whether you're an ecommerce founder rethinking your subscription model or a CPG operator looking for smarter customer acquisition paths, Shelley's story is a lesson in listening deeply, iterating fast, and staying true to your mission.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:24] Intro[00:49] Building community through shared passions[02:20] Transforming baking into an educational tool[03:41] Launching early versions to test real demand[04:32] Reaching first customers through organic channels[05:24] Applying to accelerators as a product founder[06:00] Differentiating users from true buyers[06:52] Rebranding to serve a clearer customer base[07:48] Testing niche ideas before fully committing[08:56] Stay updated with new episodes[09:07] Turning chance encounters into growth channels[10:17] Building growth through genuine relationships[10:53] Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap & Freight Right[15:31] Designing subscriptions with built-in flexibility[16:44] Expanding marketing beyond paid social[18:19] Understanding customer complexity and fatigue[20:41] Leveraging creative roots to build a brandResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeSTEM Baking Kits for Curious Kids bakitbox.com/Follow Shelley Gupta linkedin.com/in/shelley-guptaSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestTurn your domestic business into an international business freightright.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Send us a textMy guest today is Nick GilkeyIn this conversation, Nick shares his journey from struggling with ulcerative colitis to building a successful coaching business and now venturing into e-commerce. He discusses the importance of organic marketing, the challenges of paid advertising, and the value of coaching and mentorship. The conversation also touches on the significance of systemization in coaching, the long-term perspective needed in e-commerce, and the impact of product quality on business success. Additionally, they explore health awareness, detox strategies, and the role of AI in content creation, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.Connect with Nick! https://x.com/theholisticnick Connect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Sonja Grasser is the Founder of Retention Theory, a consultancy helping CPG brands turn one-time buyers into loyal repeat customers through data-driven retention systems. With a background that spans law school, 60+ countries of travel, and hands-on work with brands like MaryRuth's Organics, Sonja brings a uniquely behavioral approach to customer retention: rooted in psychology, not playbooks.After landing in retention by accident as a German-speaking marketer, Sonja discovered her passion for understanding why customers buy, not just what they buy. Her global perspective and analytical mindset help founders identify churn before it happens, build smarter lifecycle flows, and create experiences that keep customers coming back.Whether you're a CPG founder tired of chasing acquisition or an operator ready to make retention your growth engine, Sonja shares a masterclass in turning customer behavior into predictable, sustainable revenue.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:33] Intro[01:05] Helping brands turn retention into revenue[01:30] Connecting communication to customer longevity[02:08] Identifying patterns behind consumable success[02:55] Leveraging analytical thinking for stronger retention[04:00] Educating first-time buyers before selling again[05:25] Helping buyers at their exact stage of the journey[07:11] Designing flows that nurture interest into action[07:45] Applying retention rules across every direct channel[08:18] Stay updated with new episodes[08:29] Spotting churn before customers disappear[10:19] Timing recovery emails before customers drift away[11:39] Resolving customer issues before they walk away[12:27] Setting triggers that match real customer behavior[14:16] Focusing on results-driven storytelling for CPG[15:26] Evaluating why memberships don't always translate[16:36] Building loyalty from your first 100 buyers[17:07] Layering time data to reveal true retention health[19:08] Applying psychology to make retention truly workResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeHelps Ecommerce brands with retention marketing retentiontheory.com/Follow Sonja Grasser linkedin.com/in/sonjagrasserIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Espresso's are powered by our wonderful sponsor, Unleashed!1. What on earth is Unleashed, I hear you asking?Unleashed is Inventory management software that talks to your financial and eComm software. We use it daily at Islands. It's BANGING!!2.  Why Unleashed will change your life as a foodie founder?Cut admin time in half. Save money. Lots of money. Get lucid clarity on margins. Be all over cash flow, after all cash is king. Manage stock and cash flow.3. The biggest brands in FMCG love love UnleashedYour fave brands like Candy Kittens, Tiny Rebel, TRIP use religiously. Tarquins Gin, Three Spirit, Minor Figures, The Turmeric Co., Volcano Coffee4. Book a meeting with Unleashed by just clicking here!♨️Still bloody HUNGRY? Course ya are. Each week I spend 15 hours writing my newsletter. It'll take you 5 mins to read. Full of wisdom from the biggest names in food and drink. Subscribe here

Kirsten Maitland is the co-founder of Rebel Cheese, an award-winning Austin-based vegan cheese brand backed by Shark Tank investor Mark Cuban. A former U.S. Navy veteran and Microsoft agile coach, Kirsten brings her background in tech innovation to reimagine plant-based dairy through traditional cheesemaking techniques and smart Ecommerce strategy.After leaving a stable four-day tech career to pursue purpose over comfort, Kirsten built Rebel Cheese from a six-bottle wine fridge experiment into a nationally recognized brand featured by The New York Times. From launching DTC overnight during COVID to scaling through broken shipments and real-time customer feedback, her journey reveals what it takes to grow authentically while staying true to your values.Whether you're building a mission-driven CPG company or refining your feedback loop before scaling, Kirsten shares a masterclass in transforming curiosity and conviction into sustainable growth.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:03] Intro[00:55] Bringing tradition into modern food innovation[01:30] Turning passion for food into a scalable concept[02:34] Validating a product through emotional connection[03:33] Turning crisis into new growth channels[04:44] Fixing packaging with help from early partners[06:03] Shipping curated boxes to customers' doors[07:00] Selling out with zero ads or paid marketing[08:00] Turning online orders into lasting connections[08:58] Delaying advertising to protect cash flow[10:21] Stay updated with new episodes[10:31] Learning to sustain momentum after viral moments[12:24] Studying investor dynamics before pitching[12:53] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye & Heatmap[15:32] Launching fast to gather real customer feedback[18:01] Leveraging AI agents to save time and moneyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePlant-based cheese you'll actually love rebelcheese.com/Follow Kirsten Maitland linkedin.com/in/kirstenmaitlandSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Beau Wangtrakuldee is the founder and CEO of AmorSui, a science-backed medical supply brand bringing innovation, safety, and sustainability to the $58B PPE industry. A former scientist turned entrepreneur, Beau is reimagining protective apparel with clean chemistry, circular materials, and design that finally puts the user first.After a lab accident exposed the flaws in traditional PPE, Beau built AmorSui to bridge the gap between safety, comfort, and sustainability: offering PFAS-free, recyclable, and biobased alternatives trusted by global brands like Thermo Fisher Scientific and Benco Dental.Whether you're building a mission-driven ecommerce brand or rethinking your product's lifecycle, Beau shares a masterclass in turning real-world problems into scalable innovation, proving that circular design and commercial growth can coexist.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:30] Intro[01:01] Building comfort and safety into every product[01:46] Creating a business from personal experience[04:37] Designing products people actually reuse[06:10] Validating ideas through real user stories[08:12] Raising capital before manufacturing begins[08:47] Allocating funds beyond first production run[09:45] Navigating minimum order quantity realities[10:32] Launching pre-sales with finished prototypes[11:04] Stay updated with new episodes[11:14] Balancing safety standards with speed to market[12:37] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye & Heatmap[15:18] Marketing through word-of-mouth momentum[17:01] Refining targeting through early experiments[19:00] Discovering growth through customer feedback[21:34] Testing demand before building logistics[23:17] Learning quickly by shipping imperfect products[24:09] Focusing every decision on the end userResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeModern PPE brand that protects people and the planet amorsui.com/Follow Beau Wangtrakuldee linkedin.com/in/beauwangtrakuldeeSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Michael and Shane White are back — and this time, they're taking on the wild world of AI video ads. You've probably heard the hype, but here's the truth: AI videos are already reshaping how Amazon sellers launch, test, and scale. They also dig into what most people get wrong about CVR tracking, why data still beats “gut feeling,” and how video might soon be your best-performing ad type (yes, even if you're camera-shy).So grab your headphones and your favorite coffee mug — it's time to talk about launches, AI, and the future of Amazon PPC.

The Economic Club of Minnesota (ECOM) wasted no time diving into the pressing economic conversations that shape our global landscape. On Thursday, September 25, 2025, the Club launched its 2025-2026 season with “Trade and Tariff Tales,” a timely forum that unraveled the complexities of international trade policies amid a backdrop of escalating U.S.-China tensions, supply chain disruptions, and the ever-present shadow of protectionism. The event drew a crowd of over 200 business leaders, policymakers, young professionals, and students, eager to dissect how tariffs aren't just headlines but real forces rippling through Minnesota's economy from manufacturing floors to farm fields. Entrepreneur, Beth Benike, of Busy Baby, kicked off the luncheon event by telling the story of her journey as inventor and business owner, and how she is navigating the tariffs. Drawing on ECOM's storied legacy of non-partisan discourse, “Trade and Tariff Tales” featured a powerhouse lineup of panelists from valuable U.S. trading partners who blended storytelling with hard data. Sri Zaheer, Dean Emerita of the Carlson School at the University of Minnesota moderated the discussion with Consuls General Beth Richardson, Canada, Richard Hyde, U.K., and Alejandra Bologna, Mexico

Bradley Keefer is the Chief Revenue Officer and Justin Jefferson is the VP of Strategy & Insights at Keen Decision Systems, where Bayesian-powered marketing mix modeling meets scenario planning and outcome forecasting, helping brands move from rearview analytics to predictive decisioning.With decades of combined experience across SaaS, analytics, and brand strategy, Bradley and Justin are redefining how marketers plan, forecast, and invest. Instead of treating marketing as a cost center, they help brands model “what if” scenarios, forecasting how every incremental dollar drives revenue across channels.Whether you're scaling a fast-growing brand or managing a multimillion-dollar marketing budget, Bradley and Justin offer a masterclass in using data to make confident, forward-looking decisions that compound over time.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:38] Intro[01:12] Measuring how marketing spend drives growth[02:29] Building models that adapt to brand maturity[04:35] Balancing brand building with performance spend[07:24] Shifting focus from capturing to creating demand[08:41] Driving demand to boost bottom-funnel returns[09:34] Breaking growth limits with data-driven planning[12:49] Connecting viral moments to sustain momentum[14:50] Building brands that go beyond ad optimization[15:30] Stay updated with new episodes[15:43] Simplifying setup for data-heavy marketing tools[18:44] Designing analytics tools for marketing teams[20:23] Updating models fast to learn and adapt quicker[22:42] Using data to balance old and new media spendResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeMarketing mix modeling powered by AI keends.com/Follow Bradley Keefer linkedin.com/in/bradley-keeferFollow Justin Jefferson linkedin.com/in/justin-a-jeffersonIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Espresso's are powered by our wonderful sponsor, Unleashed!1. What on earth is Unleashed, I hear you asking?Unleashed is Inventory management software that talks to your financial and eComm software. We use it daily at Islands. It's BANGING!!2.  Why Unleashed will change your life as a foodie founder?Cut admin time in half. Save money. Lots of money. Get lucid clarity on margins. Be all over cash flow, after all cash is king. Manage stock and cash flow.3. The biggest brands in FMCG love love UnleashedYour fave brands like Candy Kittens, Tiny Rebel, TRIP use religiously. Tarquins Gin, Three Spirit, Minor Figures, The Turmeric Co., Volcano Coffee4. Book a meeting with Unleashed by just clicking here!♨️Still bloody HUNGRY? Course ya are. Each week I spend 15 hours writing my newsletter. It'll take you 5 mins to read. Full of wisdom from the biggest names in food and drink. Subscribe here

Eugene Chew is the Global Chief Operating Officer at BikesOnline.com, a leading direct-to-consumer cycling retailer in the U.S. and Australia and the exclusive distributor of Polygon and Superior bikes.From the early days of the internet to scaling a global Ecommerce operation, Eugene has built a career at the intersection of creativity, data, and operational excellence. Before joining BikesOnline, he led digital transformation as Chief Digital Officer at J. Walter Thompson (WPP) and served as Greater China Regional Head at Lion (Kirin).At BikesOnline, Eugene and his team are redefining what it means to sell complex, logistics-heavy products online. From solving “dirty freight” challenges to perfecting the post-purchase experience, he's proving that operational rigor and creative problem-solving can turn friction into a competitive moat.Beyond Ecommerce, Eugene is also an avid cyclist, gardener, and tea enthusiast — running Tea Urchin, his aged tea business that reflects his love for craftsmanship and detail.Whether you're scaling a DTC brand, optimizing supply chains, or navigating global expansion with a lean team, Eugene offers an inside look at how to balance creativity, data, and discipline to build a sustainable business that lasts.This episode also mentions insights from Izzy Rosenzweig of Portless on rethinking global fulfillment, and Kyle Hency of GoodDay Software on building better systems for modern Shopify brands.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:38] Intro[01:36] Naming a brand that stands the test of time[02:09] Predicting automation in ad buying early on[05:01] Learning innovation from China's all-in-one model[06:01] Balancing innovation with Western logistics limits[08:55] Recognizing the shift toward direct brand work[10:12] Shifting from service work to physical operations[11:50] Managing cash flow under market uncertainty[12:31] Stay updated with new episodes[12:41] Helping founders scale beyond day-to-day ops[13:27] Finding opportunity in a pandemic-era pivot[14:01] Designing packaging that simplifies assembly[15:30] Diversifying suppliers to reduce risk exposure[17:48] Protecting margins from tariff and fraud risks[19:01] Choosing Shopify for flexibility and speed[22:36] Hiring agencies to guide complex migrations[25:05] Training teams before adding new integrations[27:18] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye & Heatmap[29:59] Partnering with experts where specialization wins[31:58] Gaining perspective from cross-industry learnings[34:27] Avoiding costly trial-and-error learning[36:34] Prioritizing projects with impact and simplicity[41:20] Managing cost challenges in global logistics[44:50] Preparing for tariffs with flexible strategiesResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePremium bikes at unbeatable prices, direct from manufacturers bikesonline.com/Follow Eugene Chew linkedin.com/in/eugenechewMentioned episode with Izzy Rosenzweig of Portless: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpbeHvv3_1QMentioned episode with Kyle Hency of GoodDay Software: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQNsUfgl9E4Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Free SEO Audit Free PR Audit From CarolineWhat do Coldplay, sunscreen, and coconut yoghurt have in common?They've all been at the centre of major PR disasters that eCommerce founders must learn from.In this episode, Ryan Martin is joined by Caroline Voaden, founder of Story Copywriting & PR, a former crisis comms pro turned PR strategist helping Aussie brands get seen for the right reasons.Whether you're looking to land media coverage, launch a new product, or avoid your own public meltdown, this episode is packed with punchy insights and practical takeaways.

Ameriški predsednik Donald Trump je palestinskemu gibanju Hamas danes zagrozil z doslej še ne videnim peklom, če ne sprejme mirovnega načrta Združenih držav za Gazo. Rok za sprejetje predloga, ki ga je označil za zadnjo priložnost za skrajno gibanje, je prestavil na nedeljo opolnoči po našem času. V oddaji tudi o tem: - Številna mesta preplavili množični propalestinski protesti, Italijo hromi tudi splošna stavka - Premier Golob bo v primeru preiskave v zadevi Bobnar v celoti sodeloval s pristojnimi, napovedujejo v njegovem kabinetu - V ruškem ECOM-u po nedavnem požaru potekajo prva sanacijska dela

Dave discusses the recent SEC allegations against Tai Lopez, who is accused of running a Ponzi scheme through his acquisition of legacy retail brands. He dives into the details of the accusations, the flaws in Lopez's business model, and comparisons to other entrepreneurs like Alex Hormozi. What happens to Tai Lopez now? Will he go to jail?    Today's episode is sponsored by Sellerboard. Sellerboard helps users track sales, refunds and fees in real time, and even counts your indirect expenses in final profit. Beyond analytics, Sellerboard also streamlines operations with smart portfolios for PPC, inventory forecasting & management and more! Try Sellerboard free for 2 months — no credit card required. Just go to sellerboard.com/ecomcrew and get clarity on your margins today.   Tai Lopez is one of the biggest "entrepreneur turned influencers" in the industry, with 2.5 million subscribers on Youtube, 3 million on Instagram, and 1.1 million on Tiktok.    The SEC has come forward with allegations against Tai Lopez and his business partner, Alex Mehr, for running a $112 Million Ponzi Scheme and defrauding their investors.    A Ponzi Scheme, by definition, is a "form of fraud that lures investors and pays profits to earlier investors with funds from more recent investors."    That means that Tai Lopez and Alex Mehr are allegedly misallocating funds to provide an illusion of great profit margins, leading to more investors buying in on their alleged "success" when they were just using that money to pay their first few investors.    Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Tai Lopez's Controversy 03:01 - Allegations of a Ponzi Scheme 05:47 - Business Model Flaws and Comparisons 08:56 - Public Perception and Future Implications 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!

Jeremy Barker is the founder and CEO of Murphy Door, best known for transforming hidden doors and space-saving furniture into a thriving direct-to-consumer brand. From humble beginnings to Fortune's Most Innovative Companies 2025, Jeremy has built Murphy Door into the industry leader in functional design and custom craftsmanship.With Murphy Door, Jeremy is redefining what it means to blend utility, aesthetics, and engineering. What started as a bold idea, turning bookcases into fully functional hidden doors has scaled into a multi-million-dollar business recognized nationwide. By combining product innovation with viral social media, Murphy Door has grown from scrappy startup to household name.Jeremy's story blends grit with vision. From serving as a firefighter and paramedic, to living out of his car while learning how to face failure head-on, to now running one of America's most innovative companies, he's proof that persistence and transparency can turn customers into lifelong advocates.Whether you're scaling a DTC brand, looking to harness social media for growth, or exploring how AI and software can reshape customer experience, Jeremy offers an unfiltered look at what it takes to build with purpose and why owning mistakes early is the fastest path to building trust.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:43] Intro[01:16] Turning bold ideas into real products[02:04] Growing sales with early Facebook ads[07:05] Securing patents to gain attention[09:32] Stay updated with new episodes[09:42] Turning mistakes into loyal fans[14:56] Managing expectations with transparency[17:08] Simplifying processes to prevent confusion[19:00] Owning mistakes to improve clients' trust[20:11] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye & Heatmap[22:52] Leveraging partnerships to fuel growth[24:01] Empowering customers to tell stories[26:42] Rewarding referrals with revenue share[31:12] Learning to test before scaling spend[34:53] Preventing conflicts with partner clarityResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeCustom-built, multi-purpose hideaway doors murphydoor.com/Follow Jeremy Barker linkedin.com/in/jeremy-barker-02007648Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Nathan Snell is a founder, executive, and three-time entrepreneur best known for co-founding nCino, the global leader in cloud banking, and now Raleon, an AI retention platform for DTC brands. With 15+ years in fintech, marketing technology, and AI, Nathan has built products that don't just scale companies, they transform entire markets, including a 10-figure exit.With Raleon, Nathan is reimagining retention for Ecommerce. Instead of bloated teams or endless manual work, Raleon acts like a teammate, helping DTC brands and agencies handle retention 50% faster while driving more revenue. From campaign planning to segmentation, it automates the tactical grind so marketers can focus on strategy and growth.Nathan's story blends technical expertise with market-shaping vision. From scaling nCino into a public company, to investing as an active angel, to now tackling one of Ecommerce's biggest pain points, retention, he's seen how AI can accelerate results but still requires human pilots to go beyond “average” output.Whether you're building a lean DTC team, rethinking retention marketing, or trying to cut through the hype of AI, Nathan offers a grounded look at how to combine automation, brand taste, and strategy to drive the next era of Ecommerce growth.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:22] Intro[00:46] Building expertise in workflow automation[01:46] Experimenting with LLMs in workflows[03:18] Comparing AI models for DTC marketing[04:01] Starting email AI with copywriting[05:08] Fine-tuning prompts for better outputs[06:40] Elevating outputs with better context setting[08:08] Analyzing past campaigns to guide outputs[09:50] Stay updated with new episodes[10:02] Automating segmentation and copy at once[11:57] Recognizing AI delivers average by default[13:38] Editing outputs instead of chasing perfect prompts[15:20] Connecting Klaviyo and Shopify for campaigns[17:41] Automating learning cycles across campaigns[19:14] Guiding systems instead of replacing teamsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeAutomate DTC retention marketing with AI raleon.io/Follow Nathan Snell linkedin.com/in/nathansnellIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Brandon is a seasoned Amazon entrepreneur. He is the co-founder of Innovate, and he is the driving force behind a successful Kitchenware Brand with years of experience building and scaling e-commerce businesses. Brandon brings a unique perspective, shaped by both his entrepreneurial journey and his background as an attorney. Today we're going to be diving into his business. What is he doing with the challenges we're all faced with tariffs and Amazon fees and increasing competition? He's going to be sharing his journey and his tips and strategies he's implementing in his business today.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Journey and experiences of an Amazon entrepreneur in e-commerce.Challenges faced in 2025, including tariffs, Amazon fees, and competition.Importance of pricing strategies and ad spend management for profitability.Insights on product listing optimization and inventory management.Growth and significance of the Innovate conference for e-commerce sellers.Strategies for navigating sourcing challenges and diversifying manufacturing locations.The role of customer feedback and product testing in successful launches.Legal considerations in e-commerce, including trademark and patent issues.Importance of continuous product innovation and optimization for sustained success.Recommendations for leveraging tools and resources to enhance e-commerce performance.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Brandon Fuhrmann, Amazon entrepreneur and co-founder of Innovate. Brandon shares advanced strategies for scaling e-commerce brands, including optimizing pricing, ad spend, and product listings amid rising tariffs and fierce competition. He discusses leveraging international markets, building a lean team, and the importance of continuous product innovation. Brandon also offers actionable insights on legal protections, customer feedback, and multichannel expansion. Listeners gain practical, high-level tactics to drive profitability and resilience, plus an exclusive invitation to the Innovate conference for elite sellers aiming to reach 8 figures and beyond.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Play the Price–Ad Spend Game: Adjust pricing & PPC together. Drop prices to rank faster, then raise and boost ads to keep momentum.Keep Listings Fresh: Constantly update images & copy based on split tests and customer feedback. Have backups ready to pivot fast.Diversify or Die: Sell in multiple marketplaces (EU, CA, Walmart, Shopify) so you can shift inventory when tariffs or demand change.Resources mentioned in this episode:Insiders Agency: 00:16:10Helium 10: 00:27:14Jungle Scout: 00:27:14Shopify: 00:23:55Walmart: 00:22:26Faire: 00:24:41SellaMetrics: 00:33:58Amazon: 00:03:33FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon): 00:03:45PPC (Pay-Per-Click) Advertising: 00:18:42E-myth by Michael E. Gerber: 00:00:37Grit by Angela Duckworth: 00:44:49Deep Work by Cal Newport: 00:50:13Jabran Niaz on LinkedIn: 00:51:30Innovate Conference: 00:52:16Special Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastEpisode SponsorThis episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started Hadley Designs in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If you've hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then go to www.EcommBreakthrough.com (that's Ecomm with two M's) to learn more.Transcript AreaBrandon 00:00:00  When you look at profitability, there's the two biggest levers are really pricing and ad spend. Right. So you can you can price your product cheap and have lower ad spend and make the same amount as having a price that's expensive. But you've got to pump the ad spend, right. So it's kind of a fine balance between the two and kind of seeing, you know, can I lower ad spend here but keep pricing the same? Can I lower pricing and then lower AD spend to make up for that.Host 00:00:24  Right. Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast. Are you ready to unlock the full potential and growth in your business? You've already crossed seven figures in sales, but the challenge is knowing how to take your business to the next level.Josh 00:00:37  Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast...

This episode of Brain Driven Brands is a wake-up call for every founder, media buyer, and creative who's been told the secret is more ads, more volume, more work. Sarah, Nate, and guest Kevin (Head of eCom at High Camp Flasks) pull back the curtain on the creative hamster wheel and share why “a thousand ads a month” isn't just unrealistic—it's wrecking teams, draining budgets, and distracting from what actually drives growth. We dig into: Why Meta's “creative volume” advice is being misapplied How focusing on holistic campaigns (not individual ads) changes everything The hidden burnout, team, time, and efficiency costs of chasing volume What great brands are doing instead: quality storytelling, high-impact campaigns, and customer research If you're tired of the spray-and-pray approach and want to fall back in love with marketing again, this episode will give you the strategy shift you need.

Ty Haney is a serial entrepreneur and three-time founder best known for building Outdoor Voices into one of the most recognizable activewear brands of the last decade. After proving that approachable, inclusive movement could compete with performance-first giants, Ty went on to launch Joggy, a natural energy brand, and TYB, a community commerce platform powering engagement for 200+ brands including Rare Beauty, Glossier, OUAI, and Urban Outfitters.What started as a personal pain point, wanting activewear that reflected her own lifestyle has scaled into a playbook for how to turn authenticity into category-defining brands. With TYB, Ty is now helping consumer companies reimagine loyalty, moving beyond points and email blasts into gamified, multi-brand ecosystems where fans prove their status, earn rewards, and build daily habits with the brands they love.Ty's story blends personal insight with category innovation. From turning Outdoor Voices into a movement brand, to navigating the challenges of inventory-heavy DTC, to now building a software platform that redefines how brands grow, she's seen the ups, downs, and pivots that come with scaling in Ecommerce.Whether you're building a DTC brand, rethinking customer loyalty, or searching for new ways to deepen community engagement, Ty offers an unfiltered look at what it takes to transform personal pain points into platforms that fuel the next era of growth.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:24] Intro[01:08] Starting a brand from personal pain points[02:34] Expanding offerings while simplifying choice[04:40] Focusing on product before scaling[06:17] Building go-to-market around community[07:36] Stay updated with new episodes[07:48] Building momentum with early funding[08:27] Pioneering UGC early on Instagram[10:06] Challenging the direct-to-consumer thesis[12:16] Building TYB from hard-earned lessons[13:21] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap, Grow[16:30] Starting new ventures after stepping away[17:33] Building TYB as a rewards platform[18:56] Expanding into Target and Erewhon retail[20:51] Scaling community commerce into growth[23:21] Expanding loyalty into daily engagement[27:47] Inviting brands to build fan channelsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeTechnical apparel for recreation outdoorvoices.com/Plant-based steady energy supplements getjoggy.com/Community rewards platform, where community engagement pays off tyb.xyz/Follow Ty Haney linkedin.com/in/ty-haney-a4b1561aSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestThe Premier Conference for Ecommerce Operators joingrow.comIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

I chat with Craig Hewitt , founder of Castos. We talk about his journey from running a podcast editing agency to building a SaaS hosting platform. We cover the challenges of bootstrapping, raising funds, and going international. Craig shares how he uses distribution channels, how AI affects small teams, and what it's like to scale in a niche market. We end with advice for indie founders on picking business models, taking risks, and keeping up with tech changes.My twitter: https://x.com/wbetiagoAbout Craig HewittTwitter: https://x.com/TheCraigHewittPodcast: https://roguestartups.com/Timestamps by PodsqueezeGreg's Background and Starting Podcast Motor (00:01:02)Getting First Clients and Sales Approach (00:06:29)US vs. Europe: Customer Acquisition Differences (00:08:25)Localization and Multi-Currency Pricing (00:13:18)Transition from Agency to SaaS: Castus (00:16:30)Distribution Channels and Product Positioning (00:19:06)Impact of AI on Team and Product Development (00:25:28)Bootstrapping vs. Raising Money: Tiny Seed Experience (00:30:25)Agency vs. SaaS: Which to Start First? (00:31:33)Tiny Seed Accelerator: Value and Learnings (00:35:55)Distribution, Churn, and Growth Challenges (00:38:56)Balancing Family, Agency, SaaS, and Accelerator (00:41:05)Using Investment to Scale and the Realities of Raising Money (00:44:05)Investor Returns and Exit Expectations (00:51:19)Podcasting Market Realities and Churn (00:54:10)Pricing, Retention, and Content Marketing Plateau (00:57:23)What to Do When Growth Plateaus (01:00:59)AI's Impact on SaaS and the Economy (01:10:21)US vs. Europe: Entrepreneurial Mindset Differences (01:14:53)Conclusion and Where to Find Greg (01:17:58)Links and MentionsTools and Websites"Castos": "00:01:02""Podcast Motor": "00:01:02""Audacity": "00:05:40""Ecom from Skype": "00:05:40""Blueberry": "00:05:50""Buzzsprout": "00:05:50""Seriously Simple Podcasting": "00:17:36""HubSpot": "00:19:14""Cursor": "00:15:11""Zencastr": "00:22:33""Zoom": "00:22:33""Figma": "00:24:26""Cursor": "00:27:41""TinySeed": "00:30:25""11 Labs": "00:26:30""Claude": "00:26:30""Marnus": "00:26:30""TinySeed": "00:48:33""WordPress": "00:51:19""Podsqueeze": "00:54:10""Apple Podcast Connect": "00:55:13""Rogue Startups": "01:17:58"Books"Steal Like an Artist": "00:19:31"Videos and Podcasts"Nathan Barry's Podcast": "01:08:40"

Bradley Savage is the Founder & CEO of Gardencup, aka Salad as a Service, a D2C meal subscription brand that ships ultra-premium, ready-to-eat salads and produce snacks nationwide.What started with Brad taping boxes in his kitchen after getting tired of eating hot pockets every day has grown into a $29M ARR brand in just 18 months. Along the way, Gardencup scaled to nearly 2 million salads shipped a year, fueled by organic Instagram buzz and influencers before a single dollar was spent on ads.Brad's story blends scrappy bootstrapping with rapid execution. From migrating to Shopify and building a custom tech stack, to juggling ecommerce, operations, and logistics under one roof, to solving retention challenges like menu fatigue, he's learned what it really takes to scale a food subscription at breakneck speed.Whether you're building a DTC subscription, navigating operational “puberty problems,” or looking for ways to blend convenience with customer loyalty, Brad offers an unfiltered look at the grind, the pivots, and the lessons behind turning fresh salads into one of Shopify's fastest-growing brands.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:20] Intro[01:04] Creating a product from personal need[02:55] Solving churn through menu rotation[05:44] Migrating to Shopify for growth[09:44] Gaining traction from influencer posts[11:06] Driving adoption through daily habits[11:28] Stay updated with new episodes[11:39] Testing content angles and audiences[12:50] Finding right partners at each stage[14:49] Scaling ads without huge capital[15:12] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap, Grow[18:27] Collecting revenue before vendor bills[20:00] Leveraging Facebook's feedback loop[21:15] Gaining strength from co-foundersResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeDelicious chef-crafted meals at your door gardencup.com/Follow Bradley Savage linkedin.com/in/savagebradleySchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestThe Premier Conference for Ecommerce Operators joingrow.comIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Yoav Oz is the Co-Founder and CEO of Rep AI, the conversational commerce platform giving online shoppers the kind of guided experience you'd expect from an in-store salesperson.The spark came from Yoav's own frustration: landing on ecommerce sites where he was ready to buy but stuck with eight pages of product copy and no one to answer his questions. Call centers felt broken. Chatbots felt generic. Out of that gap came Rep,  short for “representative”: an AI sales assistant trained to step in at the exact right moment, with the context of everything a shopper has clicked, viewed, or abandoned.Yoav isn't building alone. Alongside him is Shauli Mizrahi, Rep's CTO and co-founder, who brings years of experience in behavioral AI. Together, they've built a tool that doesn't just cut support costs: it upsells, converts hesitant browsers, and helps brands maximize the traffic they've already paid to bring in.Their story blends SaaS know-how with ecommerce scrappiness: from proving AI could act like a real salesperson, to showing how conversational data can optimize entire funnels, to scaling integrations that slot into any brand's existing stack.Whether you're running a DTC store, trying to push up average order value, or rethinking how AI fits into your tech stack, Yoav shares a candid look at why the ecommerce funnel is broken and how Rep AI is working to fix it.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:48] Intro[01:22] Sharing career paths before entrepreneurship[03:23] Bridging gaps between chatbots and consumers[07:01] Shifting mindset from support to revenue[08:33] Training AI with millions of conversations[12:55] Optimizing websites beyond guesswork[15:41] Creating experiences that drive purchases[17:16] Personalizing offers beyond discounts[18:11] Customizing tone of voice for every brandResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeeCommerce shopping AI agent www.hellorep.ai/Follow Yoav Oz linkedin.com/in/yoavozFollow Shauli Mizrahi linkedin.com/in/shaulimizrachyIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Joelle Weinand is the Founder of Nutcase Milk, the cashew-based chocolate milk brand taking on Nesquik with a cleaner, more sophisticated option built for adults.What started as a boredom-fueled kitchen experiment during COVID: blending cashews, cocoa, and dates in her Vitamix, quickly evolved into a business. A chance brunch in Las Vegas with old poker friends turned into a pre-seed round when investors tried and liked her “ChocoMilk”. Soon, big names like Ninja and Steve Aoki came on board, and an ops expert from Mezcla Bars helped Joelle scale.Joelle's path blends relentless scrappiness with an instinct for spotting white space in crowded categories. From shelving the idea when no co-packers picked up the phone, to saying yes when opportunity appeared in unexpected rooms, to relaunching her formula based on real customer feedback, she's showing how a so-called “nutcase” idea can capture the market's imagination.Whether you're trying to break into CPG, find your first investors, or take a product from Instagram post to retail shelf, Joelle shares a candid look at how to move fast, embrace serendipity, and build a brand people are proud to carry.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:42] Intro[00:57] Launching nostalgia as a premium product[01:24] Testing a concept with friends at brunch[07:02] Highlighting the power of simple ideas[08:13] Running small tests before scaling up[09:10] Connecting with ops partners through luck[12:46] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap, Grow[15:59] Meeting investors at random events[17:23] Building trust with passion and clarity[18:23] Raising a pre-seed with friends[22:18] Asking founders for advice directly[25:04] Reducing friction in early startups[26:55] Gathering feedback to guide reformulationResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeDelicious, healthy and nostalgic cashew milk https://drinknutcase.com/Follow Joelle Weinand https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelledSchedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization https://www.heatmap.com/honestThe Premier Conference for Ecommerce Operators https://www.joingrow.comIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Today's conversation is with Adam Ashe.Adam is the founder of Notox Skincare, a former pro rugby player for Glasgow Warriors and a Scotland International, the Co founder of Puresport, Investor and Consultant. In this episode, we go deep on Adam's journey into the world of skincare and ecomm, the mindset work behind reinventing identity, and the lessons he's learned building businesses from scratch.We cover:Why Adam started looking at skincare and the origins of NotoxBiohacking changes, health routines and weight loss since retiring from rugbyThe power of ads and visibility when scaling a consumer brandThe challenges and opportunities of building an e-commerce business in ScotlandWorking with Rob Begg and shifting subconscious identity from “safe” to growthWhy old thinking won't take you to new placesThe rise of ancestral health habits and what trends Adam sees nextWhat success looks like for Adam by the time he turns 40This one is packed with lessons on performance, business and identity from someone who has lived multiple lives already.Today's podcast is supported by Bands For Brothers. Join the movement & get your band and/or t-shirt here - https://www.instagram.com/bandsforbrothers/Connect with Adam:Notox Skincare: https://notoxskincare.com/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adam-ashe-8a365612b/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adam_asheConnect with Col:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/col.cambro/Email List: https://mailchi.mp/548e38ba5942/colincambroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/ColCampbell

Please enjoy this repeat of a popular episode first aired in September 2023.Andrew Faris is the former CEO of 4x400, an ecommerce aggregator. He left that job in 2021 and now consults with merchants and manages their advertising campaigns, mostly on Meta. I asked him for his keys to successful Meta ads, having spent nine years on that platform."The best ad managers are writers," he told me. And "there's no reason a brand under $50 million in revenue needs an attribution tool."Faris first appeared on this podcast in early 2022. In our recent discussion, he addressed the joys of solo freelancing, working with entrepreneurs, and, yes, how to run high-performing Meta ads.For an edited and condensed transcript with embedded audio, see: https://pec-ly.com/?6p2QFor all condensed transcripts with audio, see: https://www.practicalecommerce.com/tag/podcasts******The mission of Practical Ecommerce is to help online merchants improve their businesses. We do this with expert articles, podcasts, and webinars. We are an independent publishing company founded in 2005 and unaffiliated with any ecommerce platform or provider. http://www.practicalecommerce.com 

Watch This NEXT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlK2P76_ZZsApply to Work with Voics: https://www.voics.co/schedule-youtubeJoin Aura: https://www.aura-app.ai/Guest: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgqOS5NfE9KivsZ2b9QU4Q(00:00) Preview and Intro(02:48) Why Matt Built a Team Instead of Going Solo  (05:16) Losing Creativity as the Business Grew  (08:22) Moving to a Unit Economics Business Model  (11:50) Equity Dilution and Planning for an Exit  (13:04) How Much Do Investors Really Help?  (15:01) The Biggest Drivers Behind Spacegoods' Growth  (16:12) Shifting from Meta Ads to Influencers and YouTube  (17:43) Founders as the Face of the Brand?  (20:58) Is Community Building Actually Worth It?  (26:56) Why E-Commerce Is Harder Than Agencies or Info Products  (30:54) The Truth About High-Ticket Dropshipping  (33:24) Three Ways to Scale an E-Commerce Brand  (33:43) Why Retail Margins Can Beat DTC  (36:16) Challenges of Expanding into the U.S. Market  (41:01) Spending £500k a Month on Ads  (46:07) Struggles with Managing a Team  (49:26) Keeping Top Talent and Avoiding Corporate Culture  (53:14) Why Matt Wants to Leave the UKSupport the show

Thank you to Polygon for supporting this show.

Send us a textMason Kuhr is a an entrepreneur who delves into the intricacies of personal growth and business development.Mason shares his journey of self-discovery and the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining personal integrity. He explores the concept of unworthiness, the importance of aligning with one's true identity, and the role of faith in overcoming life's hurdles. Expect to learn about the pitfalls of hustle culture, the significance of risk-taking, and how personal relationships mirror our interactions with the world.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Business08:59 The Impact of External Expectations on Personal Growth18:04 The Role of Risk in Personal and Business Growth26:36 The Power of Sacrifice and Multiplication27:33 Letting Go: The Butterfly Analogy in Relationships29:31 Navigating Emotional Waters: The Captain's Role31:57 Stability in Chaos: Lessons from the Storm34:00 Authenticity Over Performance: The Key to Connection37:53 Facing Fears: The Journey of Self-Expression40:42 Embracing Vulnerability: The Path to Growth43:10 The Fool's Journey: Embracing Discomfort for Growth46:30 Self-Inventory: Identifying Your ButterfliesConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Sam Shames is the Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Embr Labs, the company behind the Embr Wave: a wristband that heats and cools to help people manage comfort, sleep, stress, and hot flashes.What started as a project in an MIT prototyping competition turned into a 12-year journey building a hardware company from scratch. Along the way, Sam and his co-founders grew Embr Labs to 200,000+ units sold, $50M+ in lifetime revenue, and $66M in venture funding. A $100K Kickstarter goal became $630K in sales, powered by a loyal community they engaged long before launch.Sam's path blends technical innovation with customer-driven growth. From proving the science behind their product, to surviving on $2K a month while raising capital, to pivoting into a hardware subscription model, he's learned what it really takes to scale an ecommerce hardware brand.Whether you're building a DTC product, validating a new idea, or evolving your business model to better serve customers, Sam offers an unfiltered look at the grind, the pivots, and the lessons behind turning a student prototype into a category-defining company.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:42] Intro[01:03] Sharing early lessons in subscription[01:34] Connecting through founder communities[02:26] Brainstorming solutions to real pain points[03:21] Receiving thousands of customer emails[03:58] Deciding to sell when demand was clear[04:52] Realizing experience changes decisions[05:14] Understanding the customer segments[06:34] Raising angel and pre-seed funding[07:41] Building community through early feedback[08:53] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap, Grow[12:05] Preparing manufacturing before crowdfunding[14:10] Adapting playbooks as channels change[15:36] Spotting misalignment in value capture[18:00] Screening customers to limit fraud[19:08] Partnering with experts on subscriptions[19:51] Highlighting temperature as a daily pain point[21:32] Showing value instantly on first tryResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePersonal temperature control embrlabs.com/Follow Sam Shames linkedin.com/in/samshamesSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestThe Premier Conference for Ecommerce Operators joingrow.comIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Shawn Khemsurov is the Co-Founder of Electric Eye, a Shopify design and development agency, and a Partner at Feel, a brand studio where art meets commerce. With over ten years of experience in fashion retail, Shawn has worked with iconic brands including Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap Inc, Nike, Homage, and Only NY, spanning everything from digital experiences to product design.Shawn's journey started in retail, where he immersed himself in the many facets of the industry: from visual merchandising to customer experience, giving him an ability to understand exactly what his clients need. He combines this insight with design expertise to create unique, engaging experiences that drive sales and build brand loyalty.Whether you're running an Ecommerce brand or building your first Shopify store, Shawn offers a candid, insider look at what it takes to create digital experiences that sell and delight customers.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:44] Intro[01:18] Avoiding hiring the wrong designer[02:34] Identifying gaps in specialized expertise[03:39] Assessing designs for sales potential[04:29] Evaluating expertise before hiring partners[05:06] Balancing creativity with usability[09:02] Providing consulting upfront for clarity[11:19] Avoiding overloading the homepage[14:42] Focusing on what users actually see[15:26] Choosing the right theme upfront[16:38] Collaborating with competent developers[17:29] Balancing custom design and ShopifyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBrand studio and creative partner feel.studio/workFollow Shawn Khemsurov linkedin.com/in/shawnkhemsurov/If you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Aaron Young is a renowned entrepreneur with more than 40 years experience and several dozen multi-million dollar companies under his belt.  Aaron has made it his life's work to arm business owners with success formulas that immediately provide exponential growth and protection. Fully embodying his concept of the Unshackled Owner, he inspires others to do the same by empowering them to build strong companies while proactively protecting their dreams. Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Building and scaling businesses, particularly in the e-commerce sector.The importance of defining personal success and setting clear goals.Recognizing and leveraging personal strengths while delegating weaknesses.Hiring practices focused on cultural fit and complementary skills.Creating effective organizational structures and forward-looking charts.Implementing accountability measures through key performance indicators (KPIs) and scoreboards.Cultivating an intentional corporate culture that encourages innovation.Learning from real-world experiences and continuous education.The significance of creating systems for business independence and scalability.Strategies for maintaining personal fulfillment and legacy in entrepreneurship.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley welcomes Aaron Young, a seasoned entrepreneur and author of "The Unshackled." Aaron shares invaluable insights on scaling e-commerce businesses from seven to eight figures. Key topics include the importance of building autonomous business systems, defining personal success, and leveraging team strengths. Aaron emphasizes hiring for cultural fit, creating forward-looking organizational charts, and implementing KPIs for accountability. He also discusses the significance of a strong corporate culture and legacy building. This episode offers practical strategies for business owners aiming to achieve sustainable growth and long-term success.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:1. Systematize and Automate for Scalability – Develop detailed operating procedures and leverage automation to reduce manual effort. This ensures the business can run efficiently without requiring constant oversight, freeing up time for strategic growth.  2. Build a Team That Complements Your Skills – Identify your strengths and weaknesses, then hire team members who fill the gaps. Prioritize cultural fit and empower your team to make decisions, fostering a self-sustaining and innovative work environment.  3. Set Clear, Incremental Goals with a Defined 'Why' – Clearly define what success means to you and break down large objectives into manageable milestones. Understanding your motivation behind these goals helps maintain long-term focus and drive.Resources mentioned in this episode:Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough YouTubeeComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comThe E-Myth by Michael E. GerberChatGPTMagnify Your WealthThe Unshackled Owner"Who Not How" on AmazonThe Science of Getting Rich on AmazonLinkedInIndeedSpecial Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastEpisode SponsorSponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started my business in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If you've hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then email me at josh@ecommbreakthrough.com and in your subject line say “strategy audit” for the chance to win a $10,000 comprehensive business strategy audit at no cost!Transcript AreaJosh Hadley 00:00:00  Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast. I'm your host, Josh Hadley, where I interview the top business leaders in e-commerce. Past guests include Kevin King, Aaron Cordovez and Michael E Gerber, author of the E-myth. Today I'm speaking with Aaron Young, the author of the book The Unshackled. This episode is brought to you by Ecomm Breakthrough, where I specialize in investing in and scaling seven figure ecommerce brands to eight figures and beyond. If you're an ambitious e-commerce entrepreneur looking for a partner or a coach who can help you take your business to the next level, I bring hands on experience, strategic insights, and the resources needed to fuel your growth. So if you or someone you know is ready to scale or looking for an investment partner or coach, reach out to me directly a...

John Clark is the founder of Modern Shelving and Tandm Surf, two brands born from a simple idea: if he could sell it, his wife, an engineer, could build it. What started as a family-run shelving business evolved into a global Ecommerce company, while a day on the water with his daughter inspired an inflatable tandem surfboard that would later appear on Shark Tank.John's journey blends practicality with creativity. From solving everyday pain points with shelving to creating a patented surfboard that makes riding waves accessible to anyone, he's built businesses that reflect both lifestyle and innovation. Along the way, he's navigated the challenges of pitching on national TV, scaling niche products in the DTC market, and balancing multiple ventures without losing his entrepreneurial spark.Whether you're running a growing ecommerce brand or looking to turn family values into scalable business, John offers an honest look at what it takes to transform passion into products people love and companies that last.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:37] Intro[01:21] Launching new products to fuel business growth[03:14] Adopting Google Adwords to drive early sales[04:00] Turning family traditions into a business idea[05:39] Making surfing accessible to everyone[07:07] Sharing prototypes at the beach for feedback[08:00] Pitching novelty ideas that capture attention[09:28] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap, Grow[12:40] Answering what really happens after the deal[14:29] Leveraging the Shark Tank bump for growth[17:56] Using events to build brand visibility[19:06] Finding the right partner for long-term success[19:40] Patenting inflatable boards for portability[20:45] Building community beyond physical products[23:01] Encouraging entrepreneurs to think globallyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeVersatile designs + unique storage solutions for any space modernshelving.com/Shark Tark approved Tandem bodyboards and pool saddles tandmsurf.com/Follow John Clark linkedin.com/in/johngclarkSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestThe Premier Conference for Ecommerce Operators joingrow.comIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Allison Luvera and Lauren De Niro Pipher are the Co-Founders of Juliet Wine, where they're redefining boxed wine with award-winning California varietals and eco-conscious cylindrical packaging that challenges the category's decades-old perception. Allison is an award-winning brand builder with a dual BS in Finance and Marketing from Boston College, an MBA from The Wharton School, and WSET Level 2 Certification in Wine. She's also a founding member of the Alternative Packaging Alliance, a coalition of high-end boxed wine brands dedicated to advancing sustainable packaging in the wine industry. Lauren brings nearly two decades of sales, business development, investor relations, and design expertise from leading roles at Virgin Galactic, Uber, and Douglas Elliman, along with a BS in Culture & Communications from NYU and a Sustainability Certification from Cambridge University's Judge School of Business.Before launching Juliet, Allison built a career leading brand strategy, design, and storytelling for premium products, earning a reputation for transforming overlooked categories into high-value lifestyle experiences. Lauren honed her skills in building relationships, scaling sales, and translating brand vision into tangible growth. Together, they've created a brand that blends “affordable luxury” with modern consumer expectations and a design-first approach that stands apart from traditional boxed wine.In this episode, Allison and Lauren share how they spotted an opportunity to reimagine boxed wine, why they launched DTC first to prove product-market fit, and how they tested seven price points to find the sweet spot before expanding to retail. They also reveal how early customer data shaped their go-to-market strategy and helped secure high-quality retail partners who understood Juliet's unique value.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:40] Intro[01:07] Highlighting sustainability as a core advantage[01:58] Reimagining a category for modern consumers[03:46] Meeting evolving consumer demands head-on[05:21] Sourcing partners to match product vision[06:55] Reframing consumer perceptions of boxed wine[09:03] Prototyping early to speed market entry[09:20] Testing multiple price points before scaling[11:47] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap, Zamp[15:44] Adjusting pricing after early market feedback[17:33] Making decisions to drive progress forward[19:21] Proving product-market fit to win distributors[20:48] Proving demand before pitching big retailers[21:10] Meeting online customers where they are [22:38] Boosting AOV with strategic bundlesResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeEco-friendly and delicious luxury boxed wine drinkjuliet.com/Follow Allison Luvera linkedin.com/in/allisonluveraFollow Lauren De Niro Pipher linkedin.com/in/iamldpSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestFully managed sales tax solution for Ecommerce brands zamp.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Marielle Bobo is the VP of Content at Shoptalk Spring and Fall, where she curates programming and secures industry-leading speakers to spark the most important conversations in retail and ecommerce. She's spent 25 years in cross-platform media, serving as Editor-in-Chief & SVP of Programming at EBONY, Fashion Director at Essence, and shaping fashion, beauty, and retail narratives at Womenswear Daily, Allure, and Cosmopolitan.Before taking the helm at Shoptalk's content strategy, Marielle built a career telling stories that resonate: across print, digital, video, and live events, earning a reputation for translating trends into actionable insights. That lens now drives how she programs Shoptalk, ensuring attendees walk away with strategies they can implement immediately.Marielle shares what's different about Shoptalk Fall this year compared to year one, the genesis of the brand-new Leadership track, and why now is the moment for retail leaders to think differently about org design, planning, and agility. She also reveals which sessions ecommerce store owners and DTC brands can't afford to miss, plus how her editorial background influences the way she curates content for maximum impact.Whether she's explaining how to navigate a packed agenda or uncovering the most relevant themes for today's volatile retail landscape, Marielle offers a candid look at how great content can transform an industry event into a growth engine.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:40] Intro[01:01] Exploring global event series for innovators[02:05] Kicking off with immersive retail experiences[04:13] Planning your conference strategy in advance[06:20] Recapping key learnings before the show ends[09:50] Learning from leading retail and DTC brands[11:51] Finding solutions through casual conversations[12:58] Highlighting brick-and-mortar's role in EcommerceResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeOrganizing retail's industry's very best events shoptalk.com/Providing senior execs workshops, strategy sessions, Chicago retail tours, insights from 130+ leaders, and targeted connections fall.shoptalk.com/Follow Marielle Bobo linkedin.com/in/marielle-boboIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Matt is a seasoned entrepreneur and powerhouse in the ecommerce world. Over the last 30 years, he's launched and scaled businesses across industries, from concrete and brick-and-mortar ventures to thriving ecommerce brands. As the Managing partner at Build Grow Scale, Matt has personally helped hundreds of store owners reach and surpass the million-dollar mark, with many hitting $10M+. A sought-after speaker, Matt has graced stages across North America, sharing his expertise on ecommerce optimization and growth strategies with audiences from around the globe.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Transition from retail arbitrage to private label brands in e-commerce.Importance of delegation and hiring the right people for business growth.Learning from failures and embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth.Strategy of acquiring existing Facebook groups to access established audiences.Challenges faced in scaling e-commerce businesses, including inventory management.The role of TikTok and other marketing channels in driving sales.Prioritizing resources effectively for sustainable growth.Emphasis on focusing on high-return products and optimizing cash flow.Importance of building a cohesive brand identity in a competitive market.Strategies for expanding into direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales and retail channels.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley chats with Matthew Stafford, managing partner at Build Grow Scale, about achieving e-commerce success through effective systems and strategies. Matthew shares insights on conversion rate optimization, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer feedback and optimizing checkout processes. Key takeaways include adopting a long-term business mindset, prioritizing exceptional customer service, and eliminating ambiguity in customer communications. Matthew also highlights the value of showcasing responsiveness to customer feedback and leveraging AI for data analysis. This episode offers actionable tips for scaling e-commerce businesses to eight figures and beyond.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Regular Reviews: Schedule regular reviews of customer feedback and website performance.Data-Driven Decisions: Use data to inform decisions and prioritize improvements.Stay Agile: Be willing to adapt and make changes based on new insights and feedback.Resources mentioned in this episode:Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:Ecomm BreakthroughJosh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough YouTubeeComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comAmazonLucky OrangeBuild Grow Scale  "Persuasion" by Robert Cialdini  Letting Go by David Hawkins  Special Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastEpisode SponsorThis episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started Hadley Designs in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If you've hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then go to www.EcommBreakthrough.com (that's Ecomm with two M's) to learn more.Transcript AreaJosh Hadley 00:00:00  Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast. I'm your host, Josh Hadley, where I interview the top business leaders in e-commerce. Past guests include Kevin King, Aaron Cordovez and Michael Gerber, author of the E-myth. Today I am speaking with Matthew Stafford, and he is going to be talking about how e-commerce success isn't just about luck, it's about systems. It's learning what customers actually want and implementing proven strategies to boost conversions, setting up your business for long term success and scalable growth. This episode is brought to you by Ecomm Breakthrough, where I specialize in investing in and scaling seven figure ecommerce brands to eight figures and beyond. If you're an ambitious e-commerce entrepreneur looking for a coach or consultant who can help take your business to the next level, my team and I bring hands on experience, strategic insights, and the resources needed to fuel your growth. So if you or someone you know is ready to scale or ...

Hannah Ruhamah Crum is the Founder of Kombucha Kamp, the leading education platform and Ecommerce brand for homebrewed kombucha. She's also the co-author of The Big Book of Kombucha and the cofounder and former president of Kombucha Brewers International, where she's helped shape industry standards for fermentation and transparency.Before launching Kombucha Kamp, Hannah was a language teacher and aspiring actress who stumbled into kombucha at a raw food restaurant in San Francisco. A single sip turned into a full-blown obsession, leading her to teach local brewing classes out of her apartment, blog about the gut microbiome, and ship SCOBYs from her kitchen table before launching a full Ecommerce operation.Hannah shares how she followed inbound demand signals to grow from DIY educator to industry leader, why homemade kombucha is different from store-bought, and how she scaled without outside capital. She also unpacks how COVID reshaped her business overnight, why she walked away from a quarter-million-dollar facility, and what she's learned about managing people without formal training.Whether she's explaining what it means to be a “bacteria farmer” or how her belief in gut health intersects with spiritual wellness, Hannah offers a candid look at what it takes to build a mission-driven CPG brand from scratch.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:40] Intro[01:15] Selling starter kits not just products[02:34] Discovering a product by total accident[04:56] Blogging to fix misinformation online[06:16] Podcasting early to build brand authority[09:05] Reclaiming gut health through real food[10:44] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap, Zamp[14:42] Protecting tradition through policy advocacy[18:51] Rebuilding ops with a lighter footprint[21:30] Outsourcing production for better margins[23:02] Building loyalty with rewards that convertResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeProviding free information and education about Kombucha kombuchakamp.comFollow Hannah Ruhamah Crum linkedin.com/in/hannahcrumlaSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestFully managed sales tax solution for Ecommerce brands zamp.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Today, Dave summarizes the most important points sellers should know about from Amazon's Q2 earnings — highlighting an impressive 10% growth, breaking out of the 6% streak they've been seeing for years. However, there's a slight caveat to these good news. This doesn't mean that people are buying more from Amazon. Listen in to find out.  Get mystery shopped for your brand and 2 competitors of your choice FOR FREE! Stord will provide a detailed report that outlines the specific areas you are out performing your competitors and where your competitors are outperforming you. Learn how your consumers truly experience your brand today! The Big Takeaways E-commerce sales grew 10% year over year, a significant increase. FBA fees also grew at a rate of 11%, matching e-commerce sales growth. Advertising costs for sellers are rising significantly, up 23% year over year. To avoid getting bled out slowly, sellers need to make sure their options are properly set. Amazon's growth may not be as positive as it appears on the surface. Sellers should consider raising prices in response to increased costs. Timestamps 00:00 - Amazon's Q2 Earnings Overview 01:56 - E-commerce Growth Analysis 06:45 - FBA Fees and Advertising Costs 12:18 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways 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!

Leah Garcia is the Founder & CEO of NULASTIN®, the first beauty brand to commercialize elastin-based haircare. With a background as a professional athlete and award-winning media personality, Leah brings a performance mindset to DTC brand building, combining storytelling, product innovation, and operational grit.Before launching NULASTIN, Leah built a successful career in broadcast journalism and sports media, covering professional bull riding for CBS and competing internationally in mountain biking. That same tenacity shows up in how she scaled NULASTIN to $17.5M in revenue before hiring her first employee, bootstrapping the brand through direct response marketing, Indiegogo campaigns, and scrappy user-generated content.Leah shares why she shifted from a crowded skincare category to focus on brows and lashes, how “less polished” creative outperformed high-production assets, and why authenticity still drives her best-performing ads. She also breaks down her product development process, the metrics she tracks most closely, and how she's approaching influencer and affiliate marketing now that the brand has scaled.Whether she's explaining why awkward websites sometimes convert better or why prestige branding can alienate loyal buyers, Leah offers a no-BS look at building a beauty brand that lasts without relying on glossy tactics or VC backing.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:43] Intro[01:20] Launching niche beauty products with clear focus[02:00] Identifying a personal need in the market[03:20] Investing early in a science-backed idea[04:30] Taking control after early business loss[05:36] Accepting risk when investing your own money[06:53] Bootstrapping with decks, debt, and side hustles[09:22] Trusting instinct over validation frameworks[10:38] Learning from regulatory arrogance[12:55] Leveraging infomercial skills for DTC[14:46] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap & Zamp[18:43] Focusing early on user generated content[20:42] Understanding the tradeoffs of premium branding[22:30] Selling before customers hit the website[23:20] Learning from infomercial-driven growth[27:29] Blending legacy service with modern techResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeElastin-based hair and skincare nulastin.com/Follow Leah Garcia linkedin.com/in/leah-garcia-592988Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestFully managed sales tax solution for Ecommerce brands zamp.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Aaron Zagha is the Chief Marketing Officer at Newton Baby, the largest direct-to-consumer brand in the baby sleep category. With a background in investment banking at Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan, Aaron brings a financial operator's lens to performance marketing, attribution modeling, and team leadership.Before joining Newton, Aaron led international Ecommerce for Teleflora, managing growth across global markets and navigating the complexity of seasonal retail cycles and cross-border logistics. Today, he applies that same analytical rigor to the world of baby and juvenile goods where trust, conversion, and retention all hinge on deeply personalized journeys.Aaron shares how finance-trained marketers bring discipline to growth forecasting, why he encourages his team to challenge attribution models, and how incrementality testing has become central to his media mix. He also unpacks the pitfalls of over-indexing on Meta, why Pinterest deserves more spend, and how to onboard new marketing hires with the right mental models from day one.Whether he's explaining why some site visitors can't be influenced or why channel diversification is more urgent than ever, Aaron delivers a clear-eyed, tactical view into what's working in DTC marketing today.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:40] Intro[01:13] Finding opportunity through internal mobility[02:34] Building with seasoned tech entrepreneurs[03:09] Keeping connections that open future doors[03:53] Auditing channel mix to unlock growth[04:50] Applying stats to improve ad performance[05:54] Selling off-site and skewing test results[08:00] Optimizing upstream metrics with caution[09:00] Driving sales with offer and positioning[10:19] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye & Zamp[12:44] Relying on incrementality to guide spend[14:20] Backing bold ideas with leadership support[15:31] Humanizing luxury to boost relatability[17:01] Turning off losers without ending the test[20:14] Feeding AI tools to stay effective[21:11] Measuring performance with GeoLift testsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube#1 rated baby crib mattress newtonbaby.com/Follow Aaron Zagha linkedin.com/in/aaronzaghaSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectFully managed sales tax solution for Ecommerce brands zamp.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Send us a textWant to save $100K+ a year in your eCommerce brand? Start here.If you're building, scaling, or even barely surviving in the eCommerce space right now—this video is your wake-up call.In this video, I pull back the curtain and reveal the seven most painful, profit-killing mistakes I made—so you don't have to repeat them.Whether you're a solo founder, a small team, or a scaling operation, these lessons could be the difference between growth and collapse.Here's what you'll learn:The truth about cash flow (and why profit ≠ cash)How overhiring early creates long-term chaos and inefficiencyThe pricing mindset that actually protects your marginsHow to cut $20K+ in bloated operational expensesWhy over-relying on paid ads is one of the riskiest movesThe real cost of ignoring trend waves like TikTok ShopWhy organic content is now the centerpiece of my growth strategyBonus insights:I also walk you through my personal tech stack—how I use tools like StoreHero, Triple Whale, and Airwallex to forecast cash flow, track profitability in real time, and scale without drowning in debt or bad data.If you're tired of spinning your wheels and ready to build a leaner, smarter, and more resilient brand—this is the video you've been waiting for.Subscribe for more brutally honest insights, founder frameworks, and growth strategies that actually work.Apply to work with me via eCommerce OS (link below) and let's double your profit—without doubling the pain.

Donata Stroink-Skillrud is an attorney licensed in Illinois, a Certified Information Privacy Professional, and President of Termageddon, a SaaS platform transforming how eCommerce businesses handle legal compliance. Built at the intersection of privacy law expertise and technology, Termageddon helps online businesses stay compliant with ever-changing privacy regulations, without needing a legal team.After years of working directly with contract law, consumer protection, and international privacy regulations, Donata saw firsthand how fragmented, outdated, and risky privacy compliance had become for Ecommerce websites. What started as manual legal work soon evolved into an automated solution that identifies which privacy laws apply to a business and generates up-to-date, accurate website policies in minutes—not weeks.Donata brings a legal insider's perspective to the realities of online selling, breaking down complex regulations into practical steps for founders. From helping brands avoid FTC fines on subscription renewals, to clarifying why state privacy laws apply to your store, Donata explains the hidden legal pitfalls that quietly erode Ecommerce growth and how to protect against them.Whether sharing how generic privacy templates leave stores exposed, why recurring billing pages are the newest legal battleground, or how to future-proof your policies against incoming U.S. state laws, Donata delivers a tactical, no-nonsense playbook for reducing legal risk and building customer trust.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:42] Intro[01:04] Breaking down contract laws for entrepreneurs[02:02] Explaining why Shopify won't cover your compliance[03:57] Breaking down real costs of ignoring privacy laws[06:53] Clarifying why location won't shield your store[08:10] Highlighting false refund claims that trigger fines[11:54] Identifying which privacy laws apply to you[13:36] Turning repetitive legal work into automation[14:55] Updating policies before laws take effect[16:29] Receiving automatic updates without extra effort[17:15] Saving weeks of legal work with automation[18:12] Staying compliant as privacy laws keep changingResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeProtects business from fines and lawsuits termageddon.com/Follow Donata Stroink-Skillrud linkedin.com/in/donata-stroink-skillrudIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Jess Berman is the Chief Brand Officer and co-owner of BodyBio, a family-owned supplement brand redefining cellular health through premium, science-backed formulations. Built at the intersection of clinical credibility and modern digital commerce, BodyBio is helping bridge the gap between practitioner-trusted products and direct-to-consumer wellness, making elite cellular health accessible to more people than ever before.After spending years deeply connected to BodyBio's practitioner roots, Jess stepped into a leadership role during a pivotal shift: moving the business from B2B-only to a thriving DTC brand. What began as a family legacy focused on scientific excellence evolved into a broader mission of education, access, and brand storytelling, bringing cellular health out of the doctor's office and into everyday routines.Though she didn't come from a traditional DTC background, Jess brings strategic clarity to every stage of growth, navigating channel tradeoffs, building dual B2B and DTC ecosystems, and balancing hyper-targeted paid media with high-trust organic growth.Whether discussing how BodyBio fixed its reliance on branded traffic, why affiliate funnels outperformed typical influencer playbooks, or how brand guidelines helped unify internal teams and external agencies, Jess offers a transparent and tactical perspective on scaling a modern wellness brand without sacrificing trust.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:43] Intro[01:52] Rebuilding websites to unlock conversions[03:16] Growing brand awareness through omnichannel[04:26] Bootstrapping marketing with a two-person team[05:40] Managing fulfillment while scaling DTC[07:18] Finding new customers through authority partners[09:31] Testing creative angles to convert cold traffic[11:34] Leading growth through transparency and story[12:21] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Reach & Zamp[15:52] Defining brand guidelines before scaling online[17:52] Testing incrementality before scaling Amazon[18:48] Skipping short-term wins for long-term brand health[20:48] Preparing for shoppable AI disrupting searchResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeSupplements Made From Science https://bodybio.com/Follow Jess Berman https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesshkaneSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectLevel up your global sales withreach.com/honest  Fully managed sales tax solution for Ecommerce brands zamp.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

In this episode of the Ecommerce Coffee Break Podcast, we explore how AI is revolutionizing the way e-commerce brands expand into new markets. Join us as we chat with Bryan Murphy, CEO of Smartling, about the transformative power of AI in translation and localization. Discover how brands can now create a seamless, localized shopping experience for customers worldwide, breaking down barriers and boosting conversion rates. Tune in to learn about the latest AI advancements and how they can give your business a competitive edge in the global market. Topics discussed in this episode:  Why localizing content creates better customer experiences. How Smartling automates translation with AI. What 87% of consumers expect in online shopping. Why continuous localization matters for Shopify stores. How AI cuts translation time and costs. What Smartling does to grow global reach. Why language impacts buying decisions. How ASOS boosted conversions with Smartling. What's next for AI in e-commerce localization. Why e-commerce brands should adopt AI localization. Links & Resources Website: https://www.smartling.com/Shopify App: https://www.smartling.com/integrations/shopifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanmurphy2/Get access to more free resources by visiting the show notes athttps://tinyurl.com/2praxfn6MORE RESOURCES Subscribe to our FREE Newsletter: https://newsletter.ecommercecoffeebreak.com/ Free Store Optimization Beginners Guide: Instant PDF Download!

Drew Hart, your go-to guy for all things Amazon. Drew kicked off his entrepreneurial journey in 2018, launching two private label brands and now providing Full End to End Account Managment Services Agency that handles over 40 brands, Vinculum (VIN-CUE-LUM), which offers a full range of Amazon services, making him a one-stop-shop for Amazon success.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Implementation of AI tools and bots in e-commerce.Use of large language models like ChatGPT for operational efficiency.Challenges faced by e-commerce businesses, particularly Amazon sellers.Strategies for reducing overhead and improving productivity through AI.Development of custom GPTs tailored to specific team roles.Importance of prompt engineering and clear communication with AI.Collaborative approaches to integrating AI into business workflows.Practical applications of AI in marketing, customer service, and logistics.Encouragement for businesses to innovate and experiment with AI tools.Future trends and advancements in AI technology for e-commerce.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley welcomes back Amazon and e-commerce expert Drew Hart. They explore the transformative potential of AI tools and bots, particularly large language models like ChatGPT, in enhancing operational efficiency and reducing overhead for e-commerce businesses. Drew shares practical strategies for utilizing AI, including creating custom GPTs tailored to specific team roles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of adapting to a rapidly changing landscape marked by rising costs and fees, and how leveraging AI can help businesses remain competitive. Key insights include first principles thinking, chain of thought methods, and practical applications for AI in strategic planning and problem-solving.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Leverage AI for Strategic Decision-MakingUse ChatGPT and custom AI bots to analyze data, generate insights, and streamline decision-making processes.Implement the "chain of thought" method to refine AI responses and enhance problem-solving within your team.Develop strategy bots that use the Socratic method to guide discussions and improve business strategies.Integrate Automation Tools to Improve EfficiencyExplore AI-powered automation platforms like Make and Integromat to optimize workflows and reduce manual tasks.Use AI tools like Gamma App for document and presentation automation to save time and boost productivity.Invest in custom GPTs tailored to team roles, ensuring they align with your business's long-term efficiency goals.Encourage Continuous Learning and InnovationStay updated on advancements in AI and e-commerce by engaging in hands-on exercises with AI tools.Share AI insights with leadership teams to identify challenges and opportunities for automation.Foster a culture of innovation by learning from client feedback, testing new AI strategies, and continuously iterating on business processes.Resources mentioned in this episode:Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:Ecomm BreakthroughJosh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough YouTubeeComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comAmazonChatGPTVinculumClickUpYouTubeCustom GPTIntegrate.aiTask AidA-10.aiGamma.appMake (formerly Integromat)ZapierBuy Back Your Time by Dan Martell100 Million Offers by Alex Hormozi100 Million Leads" by Alex HormoziPrompt Engineering / DevelopmentSteve Jobs Principle (10-80-10)Special Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wick...

What would make someone spend a small fortune on the domain Couch.com? In this episode, Alex Back reveals the real reasons  and how it helped him build and sell a 7-figure business.Jim sits down with Alex Back, founder of Couch.com and Apt2b, to unpack the journey of bootstrapping an eCommerce brand and exiting with impact. From domain strategy to traffic growth and earnouts, this is a masterclass in building smart and selling well. Alex doesn't hold back on what worked, what flopped, and what he'd do differently.Key Topics Covered:Why “couches” was the niche of choiceThe surprising ROI of a premium domainBuilding sustainable traffic through SEOStructuring a strong co-founder relationshipWhat makes the right time to sellSmart growth hacks that moved the needleWhy earnouts might be underratedIf you're building, buying, or selling an eCom brand — this episode is packed with real talk and hard-won insights. Subscribe for more tactical founder convos like this.Resources:Couch.comJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookThe Shopify Growth ShowAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)

Stephanie Moyal is the co-founder of Troop, a functional mushroom brand transforming wellness routines through approachable, science-backed gummies. Built at the intersection of personal healing and product innovation, Troop is helping redefine how consumers experience the benefits of mushrooms, one gummy at a time.After exploring multiple career paths and feeling unfulfilled, Stephanie came across a book on mushrooms that sparked a complete shift in direction. What started as a personal fascination with neuroplasticity and brain health quickly evolved into a product mission grounded in education, quality, and access. At Troop, Stephanie leads everything from product development to brand storytelling, helping bridge the gap between skepticism and belief in a growing wellness category.Though she entered CPG without a traditional background, Stephanie brings a founder's resilience and clarity to each challenge, navigating go-to-market tradeoffs, scaling digital alongside strategic wholesale, and building emotional alignment with customers and cofounders alike.Whether discussing how Troop approached product sampling and what didn't work, why the mushroom industry is just getting started, or how therapy strengthened her cofounder partnership, Stephanie offers a candid and insightful perspective on building a brand with both purpose and endurance.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:39] Intro[00:54] Turning personal curiosity into a company[03:43] Brainstorming product formats in the kitchen[04:19] Navigating the nightmare of early production[06:23] Finding backup production in a crisis[08:02] Pivoting from tasting to paid acquisition[09:31] Expanding across DTC, Amazon, and retail[11:19] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye, Reach & Zamp[14:38] Focusing efforts instead of chasing channels[16:28] Looping back to what worked all along[18:27] Writing down ideas to filter later[21:08] Bringing on experts to avoid missteps[22:32] Growing stronger through personal challengesResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePremium daily mushroom supplements trytroop.com/Follow Stephanie Moyal linkedin.com/in/stephanie-moyal-95a4bb60Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectLevel up your global sales withreach.com/honest  Fully managed sales tax solution for Ecommerce brands zamp.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Sabir Semerkant is an Ecommerce expert, growth strategist, and founder of Growth by Sabir, where he helps brands unlock compounding growth through a proven framework called the 8D Method. With over 20 years of experience and $1B+ in revenue driven, Sabir has worked with everyone from Fortune 500s to DTC challengers, scaling brands like Canon, Tommy Hilfiger, and Sour Patch Kids along the way.Today, Sabir leads growth across a wide range of eCommerce verticals, helping founders break through revenue plateaus with precision systems and operational clarity. His work is grounded in execution: simplifying tech stacks, identifying bottlenecks, and unlocking 2X results without chasing shiny tactics. In 2024 alone, his Rapid 2X program delivered a 108% average lift across 29 brands in just 21 days.Whether he's unpacking the real reasons most brands stall, breaking down why resumes don't equal results, or showing how to grow without over-relying on Meta ads, Sabir brings a direct, operator-first mindset to the conversation.He shares what it takes to scale in today's crowded DTC space without gambling on paid, blindly outsourcing growth, or losing sight of what truly moves the needle.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:39] Intro[01:23] Learning marketing like a software upgrade[08:53] Improving CTR with daily copy experiments[14:55] Centralizing KPIs to drive clear decisions[19:11] Knowing your numbers without excuses[21:47] Segmenting real buyers from email signups[23:35] Testing ideas before scaling campaigns[28:32] Repositioning your product to fix weak growth[31:03] Aligning your whole team on brand growth[40:30] Avoiding the agency swap loop for growthResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeTurning Promising Ecom Brands Into Profitable Winners https://growthbysabir.com/Follow Sabir Semerkant https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabirsemerkantIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Aaron Magness is the SVP of Marketing at Full Glass Wine Co., a brand acquisition and management firm focused on operating DTC wine companies with strong community roots and lasting customer value. From first-time buyers to wine club loyalists, Aaron leads marketing across a growing portfolio of brands, building distinct identities while driving collective growth at scale.With 15+ years of experience at fast-growing consumer brands, Aaron brings a sharp operator's mindset to every marketing challenge. His work centers on sustainable value creation, balancing customer acquisition with deep retention, brand storytelling with data-driven execution. Outside of Full Glass, he's also an active advisor and investor in consumer startups, with a passion for enhancing customer experience at every touchpoint.Whether unpacking how to manage marketing across multiple brands, sharing what he looks for in standout talent, or reflecting on the role of skill vs. luck in his career, Aaron offers a grounded, thoughtful take on what it really takes to lead modern marketing teams.He shares what it means to scale without shortcuts, how to build teams that compound over time, and why marketing today is more about connection than ever before.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:41] Intro[00:59] Investing in your professional network[01:47] Navigating job loss during economic downturns[03:09] Scaling DTC through subscription experience[06:03] Building expert teams in a startup portfolio[07:04] Transferring insights across brand portfolios[08:47] Electric Eye, Social Snowball, Portless, Reach & Zamp[15:08] Specializing before expanding your skillset[18:07] Aligning teams around shared outcomes[19:41] Focusing on customer quality over quantity[23:16] Balancing tools with firsthand market knowledgeResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeRedefining the fragmented DTC wine market by building a multi-brand platform, delivering curated wines fullglass.wine/Follow Aaron Magness linkedin.com/in/aaronmagnessSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectDrive revenue through affiliates & referrals socialsnowball.io/honestRevolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/Level up your global sales withreach.com/honest  Fully managed sales tax solution for Ecommerce brands zamp.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!