Podcasts about simple modern

“We were not going to make payroll next week.” How did three ecommerce CEOs turn rock bottom into their biggest lesson? Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern), and Curtis Matsko (CEO, Portland Leather Goods) each share the darkest moment of their ecommerce careers. What came after built the self-awareness that changed how they lead. Curtis walks through the week Wells Fargo pulled a $20M line of credit after Silicon Valley Bank collapsed. Matt breaks down the hubris that nearly cost him payroll one Christmas. Mike shares the night a two-year venture fell apart. Their comebacks outweighed the crises, driven by a growth mindset none of them had before. Powered By Saras Analytics ⁠https://bit.ly/4a3gzVv⁠ Postscript ⁠https://9ops.co/postscript⁠ Aftersell https://9ops.co/4i3bb5 Richpanel https://9ops.co/richpanel Fulfil ⁠https://9ops.co/fulfil⁠ Northbeam https://www.northbeam.io/ Black Friday Resources https://www.9operators.com/black-friday Operators Portal https://portal.9operators.com/dashboard Operators Newsletter https://9operators.com/ 

“I've always hated it. This year I made the decision to shut it down.”Can three nine-figure CEOs open up about their priorities, passions, and doubts?Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge), Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) sit down for an honest conversation about the pressure of scaling ecommerce brands. They cover decision making, staying passionate, and the whiplash of growing fast. Mike explains why organizations drift toward safe tasks instead of high impact work. Sean recalls shutting down a profitable business line while questioning his passion. Matt contrasts the rhythm of running a bigger company with the grind of building Winks from zero. Same stage of success, but three completely different struggles. Powered By Northbeam https://www.northbeam.io/Saras Analytics https://bit.ly/4a3gzVv  Postscript https://9ops.co/postscript Aftersell https://9ops.co/4i3bb5 Richpanel https://9ops.co/richpanel Fulfil ⁠https://9ops.co/fulfil⁠ Operators Portal https://portal.9operators.com/dashboard Operators Newsletter https://9operators.com/ 

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley explores why businesses hit growth plateaus, identifying two key factors: execution and market size. Drawing from his experience scaling an ecommerce brand to eight figures, Josh emphasizes that even skilled operators are limited by their total addressable market (TAM). He advises entrepreneurs to evaluate their market's size and growth trajectory, warning against shrinking niches like keto snacks. Josh recommends pivoting to adjacent or larger markets when growth stalls, citing Simple Modern as a success story, and encourages choosing markets with strong tailwinds to maximize business potential.Bullet Points:Mindset shift regarding stalled business growthTwo primary reasons for growth plateaus: execution and market sizeImportance of selecting the right total addressable market (TAM)Insights from scaling an ecommerce brand from zero to eight figuresImpact of market size on business growth potentialExamples of markets experiencing growth and decline (e.g., keto snacks, med spas)Need for entrepreneurs to evaluate true market size and growth rateRecommendations for pivoting to adjacent or larger marketsImportance of understanding market nuances beyond broad industry dataStrategies for leveraging existing expertise to tap into new growth opportunitiesTimestamps:00:00:00 Introduction: Two Reasons for Stalled GrowthThe host introduces the two main reasons for stalled business growth: execution and the size of the total addressable market.00:01:00 The Importance of Market SizeYour business goals must match the size of the market you're in. The total addressable market is a key predictor of success.00:03:32 Good Operators in Bad MarketsEven the best operators with great teams and processes will be limited by the size of the market they serve.00:06:19 Understanding the True Total Addressable MarketEntrepreneurs should analyze specific, fast-growing niches within a larger market, not just the overall industry data, for maximum growth potential.00:08:37 Aligning Your Goals with Your MarketChoose a market size that matches your ambitions, whether you want a $100 million brand or a smaller lifestyle business.00:10:55 A Personal Example: Recipe CardsThe host shares his experience starting in the declining recipe card market, highlighting the importance of avoiding stagnant or shrinking markets.00:12:04 What to Do If You're in a Stagnant MarketInstead of exiting, analyze your market's growth rate. If operations are solid, the market itself may be limiting your growth.00:13:17 Pivoting to Adjacent CategoriesThe host uses Simple Modern as an example of a brand that expanded into adjacent categories to continue growing after its primary market plateaued.00:15:48 Final Advice and ConclusionTo achieve ambitious growth, focus on large, fast-growing markets, as even average operators can succeed with strong market tailwinds.Links & Mentions:Med Spa Space: "00:03:32"  Creatine and Electrolytes: "00:07:26"  Gummies: "00:08:37"  Poppi Soda: "00:08:37"  Grüns: "00:08:37"  Total Addressable Market (TAM): "00:09:38"  Simple Modern: "00:13:17"  ChatGPT: "00:15:48"Transcript:Josh Hadley 00:00:00  Today, I want to dive into a massive mindset shift that I have had when it comes to stalled growth in a business. Typically, it boils down to two major reasons. Number one is going to be execution, and number two is going to be the size of the market. Today I want to unpack why your brand might not be growing to the level that you want it to be, and how I've seen that happen in my own business. Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast. I'm Josh Hadley. I've scaled my own ecommerce brand from 0 to 8 figures, and I'm actively building towards nine figures in sales. This podcast is where I document that journey and share the systems, the strategies, and the lessons learned in real time so that you can learn what actually matters and scale your own business. My name is Josh Hadley. First and foremost, I am a man of faith. I am a husband to a beautiful wife and the father of four children. I've been playing in the e-commerce space for over a decade, doing over $20 million in annual revenue in multi-million on sales channels such as Amazon, TikTok, Shop and Shopify.Josh Hadley 00:01:00  And last but not least, I am also the host of the number one Business strategy podcast for eCommerce entrepreneurs, and that is E-com breakthrough. Today, I want to unpack something extremely important that honestly took me way too long to discover and actually understand. And it is this sometimes the goals and passions that you have, and the size of business that you want to create does not match the size of market that you are you are currently playing in. And the example is this. Let's say you want to have a $100 million brand before you can say, yeah, I'll be able to create $100 million brand. Even the best operator may not be able to create a $100 million brand. If they pick the wrong drumroll, please mark it. At the end of the day, the total addressable market is one of the number one things that will predict the success and the future growth in your brand More than anything else, I have seen this time and time again, and the lesson comes from this as I continue to go to ecommerce events and different mastermind groups, oftentimes I've been sitting next to an operator that, honestly speaking, I'm not overly impressed with.Josh Hadley 00:02:19  They kind of seem pretty lazy, and they don't really run a very good team, and they might be fairly unethical. Yet guess what I hear? Oh yeah, I'm running this million dollar brand. And guess what? The underlying reason as to why they're running a $100 million brand is they are riding the coattails of a massive trend and a massive opportunity that is growing over 20% annually year after year. The market is growing in a massively meaningful way, and so they only need 0.5% of the market. And honestly, they don't even need to be that good of an operator because like the market's just so hungry for what it is that they are offering. Alex Ramos talks a lot about that today. Right now, which is like the med spa space is just like a massive opportunity. It is growing year over year, month over month. It is a hot space. And honestly, there's a lot of like fairly poor operators that are succeeding massively well in the med spa space just because like it is such a hot and attractive and growing market right now.Josh Hadley 00:03:32  And so the lesson is this you might be one of the best operators that is out there, meaning you're a great leader, you have a great team behind you, you have the right processes, you have the right playbook. But guess what? If you're in the wrong market, you're only going to rise to the size of market that you can actually conquer and however big that market is. So let's take this as an example. Let's say there's a particular market for we'll talk about a specific supplement. Right now let's talk about, like, the Cato market. Okay. So in the Cato market, or let's call it the snack market, not necessarily supplements. Okay. Cato was on a tear, you know, five years ago or so. But Cato as a whole is actually seeing declines year over year now. So now is not...

What are the secrets to winning in ecommerce that nobody talks about? Matthew Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), Jason Panzer (President, HexClad), and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) reveal 12 lessons for anyone building a brand from the ground up. This is what they'd tell their younger selves if they ever got one more shot. Secrets like why it takes a decade for your brand to earn its name and how walking away from weak products makes grit pay off. After that, cash gets a hard look because even strong margins can still starve your reserves. Also included are quick hits like customer obsession, copying your first product, hiring slow, and firing fast. Powered By Fulfil https://9ops.co/fulfil Aftersell https://9ops.co/4i3bb5 Richpanel https://9ops.co/richpanel Northbeam https://www.northbeam.io/ Saras Analytics https://bit.ly/4a3gzVv Postscript https://9ops.co/postscript Operators Portal https://portal.9operators.com Operators Newsletter https://9operators.com 

What does a real product development process look like when 9-figure operators are betting their own money? Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern), Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge), and Curtis Christopherson (Chief Growth Officer, Ammortal) sit down mid-build on Winks, a family sleep supplement, to make product decisions. Go behind the scenes on flavor count, purchase order size, pricing, sourcing, and the supply chain mistake from Trevi that cost hundreds of thousands to fix. This is an actual founder meeting. Recorded, unedited, and real money at stake. Mike breaks down the MOQ math behind every multi-SKU decision. Sean argues for the smallest possible capital bet. Curtis brings the manufacturer's-eye view. It ends with one flavor, $75K inventory budget, and a purchase order due in two weeks. If you're figuring out how to launch a new product from scratch, this episode was made for you. Powered By SARAL https://www.getsaral.com/special-guided-walkthrough-for-operators Shoplift https://shoplift.ai/operators Omnisend https://www.omnisend.com/9operators Richpanel https://9ops.co/richpanel Motion https://9ops.co/motion-runneth Skio https://9ops.co/skio-9operators Operators Portal https://portal.9operators.com/dashboard Operators Newsletter https://9operators.com/ 

Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge), Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), Jason Panzer (President, HexClad), and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) rank the ten highest impact ways ecommerce brands are using AI in 2026. The four disagree loudly before landing on a group ranking none of them expected going in. Sean says AI chatbots now handle nearly every routine support ticket. Mike takes it further with a model that predicts each customer's next purchase and updates hourly.The pattern repeats in content, where generative AI now handles static images at Ridge and Pela for a fraction of the old cost. Powered By Fulfil https://9ops.co/fulfil Saras Analytics ⁠https://bit.ly/4a3gzVv⁠ Postscript ⁠https://9ops.co/postscript⁠ Aftersell https://9ops.co/4i3bb5 Richpanel https://9ops.co/richpanel Northbeam https://www.northbeam.io/ Operators Newsletter https://9operators.com/ Operators Portal https://portal.9operators.com/dashboard

“Everyone who said I was too early, they got on my investor updates.” Can product market fit be created, or can you only position yourself to catch it? William Hicks (Co-Founder & CEO, Magic Mind) joins Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) and Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) to unpack how a Silicon Valley spreadsheet of nootropics became a national retail brand. This episode gets into the real mechanics of product market fit at scale. Raising a seed round took dozens of rejections. Hicks kept those investor relationships warm for years afterward. From there, DTC gave way to national retail distribution. Merchandising discipline mattered more than ad spend. Subscription retention gets a breakdown too, along with the honest math behind CAC payback and lifetime value. Powered By Fulfil https://9ops.co/fulfil AppLovin https://www.9operators.com/paid-growthhttps://applovin.com/9operatorsShoplift https://shoplift.ai/operators SARAL https://calendly.com/maxx-getsaral/operators ShipHero https://9ops.co/shiphero-titans

What are the five ways ecommerce owners actually get paid? Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge), Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern), and Curtis Mastko (CEO, Portland Leather Goods) break down five real ways ecommerce operators get paid. Each path trades speed for risk, and none of them is easy money. Valuation sets the ceiling, and buyers lean on EBITDA multiples to get there. Distributions are where most operators get paid, if they resist reinvesting too much. Debt speeds that timeline up, though it comes loaded with risk. The episode ends on salary, pitting one founder's restraint against another's ambition. Powered ByFulfilhttps://9ops.co/fulfil Richpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/9OP-YtdescPostscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptAftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Operators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

“The scale is not going to fix your problems.” What separates a hundred million dollar ecommerce brand from the rest? Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge), Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), Jason Panzer (President, HexClad), and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) break down the eight rules to build a hundred million dollar ecommerce brand in 2026. These are not theories: each host has built a brand at this exact scale. Mike breaks down why Trevi chased profitable unit economics for a year before scaling. Sean calls reorder revenue the ultimate cheat code, and explains why he built Ridge around chasing it. Jason closes on hiring rigor, where a LinkedIn check now decides every offer. Powered ByFulfilhttps://9ops.co/fulfil Richpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/9OP-YtdescPostscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptAftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Operators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

“You are not trying if you're not getting sued.” How did IQBAR go from a $90k Kickstarter to a nine-figure retail, DTC, and Amazon giant? Will Nitze (Founder & CEO) and Jessica Greenwood (CMO) join Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern). This is the product launch strategy and CPG marketing playbook they wish existed when they started. Will and Jessica detail their early tactics and walk through every funding round: from $625K at a $4M valuation to $5.5M at $50M. They doubled revenue every year for eight years, kept the team at 15 people, and never dropped below 50% ownership. Mike and Matt close on what killed dozens of competing bar brands in 2022 and why IQ BAR survived.  Operators Titans is brought to you by AppLovin. Get access to the Operators channel expansion playbook, online masterclass, and up to $5k in ad credits here: https://www.9operators.com/paid-growth. Or launch your ads today with our exclusive link: http://applovin.com/9operators.

Should you open your own stores, or let the big retailers do the heavy lifting? Curtis Matsko (CEO, Portland Leather Goods), Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) go head to head on one of the biggest channel decisions a consumer brand will face. Curtis went from a spite-signed lease to 16 owned stores, while Mike turned a $9 million Sam's Club bet into 10,000 wholesale doors. This episode breaks down these two different paths and what each model actually costs you in competency, capital, and control, why the wrong channel for your product category is almost impossible to recover from, and what private equity is really looking for when they come knocking on an omnichannel brand. Powered By Fulfil https://9ops.co/fulfil Saras Analytics https://bit.ly/9OP-Ytdesc Postscript https://9ops.co/postscript Richpanel https://9ops.co/richpanel Northbeam https://www.northbeam.io/ Aftersell https://9ops.co/4i3bb5 Operators Newsletter https://9operators.com/

“Whoever can spend the most money is going to win.” Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge), Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi), Jason Panzer (President, HexClad), and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) audit the first half of 2026. The focus is a sound ecommerce growth strategy for Q3 and Q4. No guests, no fluff. Just what worked, what blew up, and where they're placing their bets.  Amazon leads the conversation, with Sean up over 100% year over year on full assortment parity and Mike beating Liquid IV on a $4 blended CAC. Wholesale gets a harder look, with Sean holding a big-three PO and an 18-month runway to shelf. The group then pulls apart margin profile as a competitive weapon, why most consumable brands are quietly heading toward a reckoning, and what it takes to set a spending floor competitors cannot match.  Powered ByFulfilhttps://9ops.co/fulfil Aftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Richpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/4a3gzVvPostscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptOperators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

Operators Titans is brought to you by AppLovin. Get access to the Operators channel expansion playbook, online masterclass, and up to $5k in ad credits here: https://www.9operators.com/paid-growth Or, skip the waitlist and launch your AppLovin ads today with our Operators-exclusive link: https://applovin.com/9operators “We built our iPhone before we built our Apple.” How do you scale a hardware brand from $7M to $1.5B without chasing cheap CPMs?  Jacob Zuppke (CEO, Whisker) joins Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) to break down how a self-cleaning litter box company became a $1.5B brand through US manufacturing, big creative swings, and a deliberate omnichannel strategy. Jacob breaks down the marketing that fueled a decade of growth, including how TV outperformed Meta for years, and why Whisker held off Amazon until branded search volume made the case impossible to ignore. He also gets into the Whisker app, which logs 4.7 million cat weigh-ins per day, and why that software layer is where the brand's omnichannel strategy gets its deepest competitive teeth.

What does Ridge's annual revenue growth 2025–2026 look like when you launch three new categories at once? Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge) joins Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) to get into what it looks like when a founder goes all-in on ecommerce product expansion while navigating new fatherhood, a tough M&A market, and a company that had to reinvent its growth story. Sean breaks down the Shark Ninja model. Ship fast, cut losers, never wait on a five-year roadmap. He walks through what made the Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) partnership succeed where a $4 million celebrity deal would have failed. Finally, he gets candid about fatherhood and the DTC acquisition market, where over 70% of deals since 2022 drew zero bids. Powered ByFulfilhttps://9ops.co/fulfil Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/4a3gzVvAftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Richpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Postscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptOperators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

Is owning your own warehouse worth the headache? Or is it a siren song that will slow your growth? Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case and Lomi), Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern), and Curtis Matsko (CEO, Portland Leather Goods) dig into two of the most expensive decisions in ecommerce. Should you own your warehouse or outsource fulfillment to a 3PL? Can a founder ever truly step back from the company they built? They break down the owned warehouse versus 3PL debate, covering when flexibility beats cost savings, and why high-growth brands get burned by leases. From there, the conversation shifts to founder identity and succession, what Tim Cook's Apple exit and Doug McMillon's Walmart departure reveal about leadership transitions, and why the skills that built your company can quietly become the thing holding it back. Powered ByFulfilhttps://9ops.co/fulfil Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/4a3gzVvPostscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptRichpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Aftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Operators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

“The obtaining of money is a lot easier than stewarding that money well.” Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge), Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern), and Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) dig into one of the most-requested topics from listeners: how do owner-operators pay themselves? And what should they be aiming for? The hosts walkthrough salary benchmarks, distribution strategies, and the honest math behind building long-term wealth in consumer.  The conversation goes deep on the tension between pulling money out now versus betting on the asset long-term, creating a business that outlasts you as CEO, and why chasing one big exit can be the very thing that ruins the deal. They also get personal by sharing what they'd tell their younger selves, the difference between financial security and financial freedom, and why the number you think you need is almost always wrong.  Powered ByFulfilhttps://9ops.co/fulfil Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/9OP-YtdescPostscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptRichpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Aftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Operators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

Operators Titans is brought to you by AppLovin. Get access to the Operators channel expansion playbook, online masterclass, and up to $5k in ad credits here: https://www.9operators.com/paid-growth Or, skip the waitlist and launch your AppLovin ads today with our Operators-exclusive link: https://axon.ai/en/9operators How do you build a DTC telehealth platform from scratch and play the long game right? Tim Doyle, founder of Eucalyptus and incoming SVP International at Hims & Hers, joins hosts Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) for a wide-ranging conversation on building, scaling, and exiting one of the most ambitious DTC healthcare companies outside the US. Tim traces his path from political media buying in Australia to launching a multi-brand telehealth platform across multiple continents and the hard lessons in between. The conversation covers Tim's “salary cap” approach to talent building, how Eucalyptus turned clinical outcomes into its most powerful marketing asset, and why he believes bold creative scripts remain the most underrated lever in consumer marketing.

Could one bad supplier decision bring your entire ecommerce brand down? Curtis Matsko (CEO, Portland Leather Goods) joins hosts Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood decisions in consumer goods: vertical integration. Curtis built North America's largest leather bag manufacturer in Mexico not by grand design, but out of pure necessity.  The conversation covers why owning your factory can 10x your business or burn millions of dollars, and how China's manufacturing dominance is being driven by robotics, not just cheap labor. They unpack how the coming wave of AI-powered robotics could reshape fulfillment and production faster than most operators expect, and close with the one move each host credits with 10xing their own business. Powered ByFulfilhttps://bit.ly/3pAp2vuRichpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Aftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/9OP-YtdescPostscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptOperators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

Most DTC brands are making million-dollar channel decisions based on attribution data that's fundamentally wrong. Olivia Kory — CSO of Haus and the incrementality expert Brett references on stage more than almost anyone — breaks down what it actually takes to know if your ads are working. Spoiler: if you've been writing off YouTube based on MTA, you owe yourself a retest.Inside the episode:Why YouTube's true ROAS is 3.4X what the platform reports — and how Haus's 190-test study across 74 brands proved it (plus why your D2C numbers alone are only half the picture)The right time to start incrementality testing — it's not when you're huge, it's when your business gets complicated enough that turning off ads won't give you a clean answerHow StockX went from barely spending on YouTube to making it their #2 acquisition channel — by running geo holdout tests and acting on the resultsWhy Meta's optimization might be too good — and how brands like Jones Road are improving their iROAS by making changes that look worse in-platformThe surprise winner: AppLovin — Olivia came in skeptical of mobile game ad inventory and got data she didn't expectHaus's new DTC Basics tier — a lower-cost entry point so more brands can stop guessing which channels are actually driving growth Sponsored by OMG Commerce - go to (https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact) and request your FREE strategy session today! Chapters: [00:00] Intro clip — Olivia on treating incrementality as a report card vs. a growth tool[00:22] Introductions & background — Olivia's path from Starcom → TubeMogul → Netflix → Quibi → Sonos → Haus[06:55] What is incrementality? — The randomized controlled trial analogy; geo holdouts vs. click-based attribution[10:45] When should a brand start using incrementality? — The low-to-mid 8-figure inflection point; multi-channel complexity as the signal[15:34] Native platform lift studies (Meta & Google) — Are they worth it? Signal loss, CAPI, iOS 14.5 limitations[17:25] Geo holdout vs. user-level testing — Why Haus was "born out of the ashes of iOS 14.5" and went all-in on geo[19:37] How a Haus geo holdout test actually works — Data ingestion, experiment design, market matching, results[23:20] Actioning on incrementality data — Coaching leadership, making reallocation decisions, improving channel performance over time[26:02] How long should you run a test? — Why 2-week YouTube tests fail; 4–6 week minimums and the role of consideration cycles[27:19] Incrementality as an optimization loop, not a report card — Connor from Ridge, Cody from Jones Road Beauty, and the StockX story[30:42] Key metrics defined — iROAS, iCPA, incrementality factor, and why in-platform ROAS can mislead you[32:47] Branded search — Is it incremental? Simple Modern's 5% read, when Amazon bidding on your terms changes the math[35:57] Treatment window & post-treatment window (PTW) — How Haus structures tests for YouTube, Meta, and CTV; lagged effects explained[39:36] Consideration cycles & post-purchase surveys — Why your path-to-purchase report is probably shorter than reality[41:00] Halo effects: Amazon & retail — Why omnichannel brands that only measure D2C are understating YouTube's impact[41:58] The Haus YouTube study findings — The 3.42x incrementality factor; halo effects that doubled lift when Amazon/retail pulled in; Demand Gen vindicated[44:10] YouTube vs. Meta: how the channels differ incrementally — Meta's short payback window, the "too good at intent" problem, and why YouTube wins on halo effects[46:53] Surprises from the data — YouTube (not surprising to Olivia), AppLovin (very surprising), and why TV results swing wildly based on inventory type[50:16] The biggest levers to improve incrementality — Creative first (30–50% wins), then account structure, traffic composition, and spend level[51:46] A DemandGen campaign running on Gmail — A real audit story and why traffic composition can make a channel look broken when it isn't[53:13] Haus's new DTC Basics tier — A lower-cost entry point to measure D2C and Amazon across core ad channels[54:54] Wrap-up & where to find Olivia — Part two teased around the next Haus YouTube report Connect With Brett: LinkedIn: / thebrettcurry YouTube: / @omgcommerce Website: https://www.omgcommerce.com/ Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact Relevant Links: Olivia's LinkedIn: /olivia-kory-50230812 Past guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more

What do you do when you've already won, and still can't stop building?  Sean Frank and Matthew Bertulli sit down with Mike Beckham, (CEO of Simple Modern and Simple Ventures), to unpack what happens after you climb the mountain. Mike shares how Simple Modern grew from a bootstrapped “Yeti knockoff” to nearly $200M in annual revenue, paid off all its debt, and suddenly found itself generating more cash than it could reinvest — and what he decided to do about it.  The conversation covers Mike's framework for capital allocation when the obvious moves run out, including why he launched electrolyte brand Trevi (and what the $2–3M learning curve actually bought him), how Simple Ventures is building a portfolio of lean, AI-powered businesses with single-threaded leaders, and why Mike believes now is the single best moment in history to be a builder. From the counterintuitive case for being 13th in a massive market, to rewiring your brain around what AI makes possible, to why physical goods aren't going anywhere — this one goes deep.  Powered ByFulfilhttps://bit.ly/3pAp2vuAftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Postscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptRichpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/9OP-YtdescOperators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

Special episode on what billions in recent ecommerce exits, raises, and M&A mean for your brand. Curtis Matsko (CEO, Portland Leather Goods) joins hosts Matt Bertulli (CEO, Pela Case & Lomi) and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) to dig into the wave of consumer deals. They debate whether strategic buyers and PE firms are truly back, why physical consumer brands are suddenly looking like the safest asset class, and what it takes to build something worth acquiring. The conversation covers LTV math behind consumables to TikTok shop's role in driving $200K days at Portland Leather Goods. It explores how to build a durable brand using first principles in a chaotic macro environment defined by tariffs and AI disruption. The speakers also dive into why omnichannel presence is now essential for a premium exit, and reveal the single most important question every founder must answer before taking their first step. Powered By Fulfil https://9ops.co/fulfil Richpanel https://9ops.co/richpanel Northbeam https://www.northbeam.io/ Saras Analytics https://bit.ly/9OP-Ytdesc Postscript https://9ops.co/postscript Aftersell https://9ops.co/4i3bb5 Operators Newsletter https://9operators.com/

“We had no cash, no supply chain, high product market fit, and low CAC. There was this giant button flashing: hyper growth.”  What does it take to build a profitable pet brand from a studio apartment to a nine-figure business with its own factory?  Russell Breuer (Co-Founder and CEO, Spot & Tango) joins hosts Sean Frank (CEO, Ridge) and Mike Beckham (CEO, Simple Modern) to trace the full arc of building one of DTC's most quietly dominant pet brands. Russell shares how Spot & Tango launched Unkibble days into COVID with nearly no cash, sold out in three days, and then had to resist pressing the hyper-growth button without inventory to back it up.  The conversation gets deep into the math of subscription growth — payback windows, LTV by channel, contribution margin, and why Russell's kids know what a CAC is. They cover the contrarian decision to build a dedicated factory, how vertical integration added 30-plus margin points and created a competitive moat, the trade-offs of going omnichannel when you're profitable DTC, and why discipline is what separates brands that last. Powered ByFulfilhttps://bit.ly/3pAp2vuAftersellhttps://9ops.co/4i3bb5Richpanelhttps://9ops.co/richpanelNorthbeamhttps://www.northbeam.io/Saras Analyticshttps://bit.ly/9OP-YtdescPostscripthttps://9ops.co/postscriptOperators Newsletterhttps://9operators.com/

Brought to you by Applovin. Get access to the Operators channel expansion playbook, online masterclass, and up to $5k in ad credits. https://www.9operators.com/applovin Matt Bertulli, CEO of Pela Case and Lomi, and Mike Beckham, CEO of Simple Modern, sit down with Kat Cole, CEO of AG1, to trace one of the most unconventional executive careers in consumer. From hostess at Hooters at 17 to vice president by 26, to leading a multi-billion dollar restaurant empire through the pandemic, Kat's path defies every traditional playbook. The conversation covers how crisis sharpens leadership into an arrow, why Kat's “Hotshot Rule” has been a weekly practice for nearly two decades, and how AG1 quietly spent two years shoring up operations and clinical science before unleashing a wave of launches — new products, new flavors, a Costco debut, and Hugh Jackman — in a single six-month run. They also dig into the Athletic Greens to AG1 rebrand, what it really means to stay close to your customer when you're fully remote, and why Kat believes product quality is the most underrated growth strategy in the game.

On this episode I caught up with Simple Modern Co Founder Mike Beckham. Simple Modern crossed 50M products sold earlier this year and since our last episode linked below. SM has moved some production to Oklahoma as well as giving employees ownership in the company. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-is-oklahoma/id1387331955?i=1000552910848 Huge thank you to our sponsors. The Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum telling Oklahoma's story through its people since 1927. For more information go to www.oklahomahof.com and for daily updates go to www.instagram.com/oklahomahof The Chickasaw Nation is economically strong, culturally vibrant and full of energetic people dedicated to the preservation of family, community and heritage. www.chickasaw.net Dog House OKC - When it comes to furry four-legged care, our 24/7 supervised cage free play and overnight boarding services make The Dog House OKC in Oklahoma City the best place to be, at least, when they're not in their own backyard. With over 6,000 square feet of combined indoor/outdoor play areas our dog daycare enriches spirit, increases social skills, builds confidence, and offers hours of exercise and stimulation for your dog http://www.thedoghouseokc.com #ThisisOklahoma

MOVE SUPPLY CHAINPay less for COGS, get shorter lead times, and improve payment terms in your supply chain with help from Move Supply Chain at https://⁠movesupplychain.com⁠.RICHPANELCut your support costs by 30% and reduce tickets by 30%—guaranteed—with Richpanel's AI-first Customer Service Platform that will reduce costs, improve agent productivity & delight customers at http://www.richpanel.com/partners/ajf?utm_source=spotify.//What if the biggest risk to your brand isn't competition or CPMs - it's how you define success? In this episode, Andrew walks through a practical framework for setting reasonable, operator-grade goals using EOS (10-year → 3-year → 1-year → quarterly), then pressure-testing those goals against your real constraints: product pipeline, supply chain, hiring, onboarding, and P&L design. We dig into why “rocket ship” thinking so often creates chaos: over-hiring, over-buying inventory, and chasing vanity targets - and how durable brands actually grow: methodically, with clear success criteria and a bias toward profitability.You'll learn how to translate vision into numbers; why returning-customer mix lowers CAC% over time; how to engineer margin through supplier work (terms, lead times, BOM interrogation); and when to seize moments without over-leveraging. Real operator cases—Born Primitive, Simple Modern, Natural Dog Company, CTC—illustrate why steady compounding beats aggressive targets that break systems. If you want a calmer calendar and a fatter P&L, this is the playbook.//CHAPTER TITLES:00:01:06 - Using EOS As a Framework00:04:10 - What Is Motivating You & Your Goals (For Your Business)00:07:42 - How Can Your Vision Be A Constraint?00:09:01 - Examples of Great Brands 00:16:16 - Andrew defines a Rocketship Business00:19:10 - Good Businesses Build Steady Overtime00:25:31 - The Secret Sauce Brands Are Using To Grow00:28:33 - Maximizing Key Moments00:30:34 - P&L Design00:32:53 - Don't Let The Promise of A.I. Fool You00:34:49 - Goals for AJF Growth//SUBSCRIBE TO MY PODCAST FOR 2X/WEEKLY UPLOADS!//ADMISSIONGet the best media buying training on the Internet + a free coaching call with Common Thread Collective's media buyers when you sign up for ADmission here: ⁠⁠https://www.youradmission.co/andrew-faris-podcast⁠//FOLLOW UP WITH ANDREW X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/andrewjfaris ⁠Email: podcast@ajfgrowth.comWork with Andrew: ⁠https://ajfgrowth.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

INTELLIGEMSIntelligems brings A/B testing to business decisions beyond copy and design. Test your pricing, shipping charges, free shipping thresholds, offers, SaaS tools, and more by clicking here: https://bit.ly/42DcmFl. Get 20% off the first 3 months with code FARIS20.RICHPANELCut your support costs by 30% and reduce tickets by 30%—guaranteed—with Richpanel's AI-first Customer Service Platform that will reduce costs, improve agent productivity & delight customers at http://www.richpanel.com/partners/ajf?utm_source=youtube.//Bryan Porter is the Chief Ecommerce Officer at Simple Modern. Follow him on X at https://x.com/jbryanporter and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbryanporter/.//Simple Modern's insulated drinkware shouldn't have worked as a DTC business: low repeat purchase rates, heavy shipping costs, and thin margins. Yet somehow, Bryan Porter and his team took their average order value from $18 to $80—fundamentally reshaping the brand's unit economics.In this episode, Bryan explains why AOV growth isn't just a vanity metric, but a lever for profitability when done intentionally. We break down the seven-year journey behind that transformation: bundling strategies that amortize shipping costs, personalization features like embroidery, limited-edition drops that command premium pricing, and product development designed for ecosystem buying.This conversation also dives into bigger strategic lessons: When to let Amazon carry single-unit orders, how to structure your site around differentiation, and why broader brand awareness—not just tactical hacks—ultimately drives scalable growth. If you're navigating thin margins, testing shipping thresholds, or struggling to profitably scale off Amazon, Bryan's perspective is both practical and deeply insightful.//CHAPTER TITLES:00:02:24 - Andrew LOVES Oklahoma00:02:54 - Is AOV The MOST Overrated Metric?00:06:10 - Margin Profiles For A DTC Brand00:13:57 - Product Development Process00:21:17 - Increasing AOV00:28:15 - The Pillars 00:36:16 - Tiktok Shops00:45:40 - Let's Chat About Money//SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL FOR 2X/WEEKLY UPLOADS!//ADMISSIONGet the best media buying training on the Internet + a free coaching call with Common Thread Collective's media buyers when you sign up for ADmission here: ⁠⁠https://www.youradmission.co/andrew-faris-podcast⁠//FOLLOW UP WITH ANDREW X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/andrewjfaris ⁠Email: podcast@ajfgrowth.comWork with Andrew: ⁠https://ajfgrowth.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

While most brands are chasing tomorrow's sales, Chris Hoyle, Chief Marketing Officer of Simple Modern, focuses on driving brand connections and loyalty through generosity.If you don't know this brand, you should:>Their purpose in the crowded drink-ware and consumer goods space is clear: “We exist to give generously.” >On their website it even says “generous prices” - meaning affordability>Chris even shares a story about “generous laughter” – LOVE IT, never heard those two words together beforeIn this episode, we cover the difference between growing the brand and growing the business.

#220: Mike Beckham is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Simple Modern, a global producer of premium drinkware and lifestyle products. Founded in 2015 and based in Oklahoma, Simple Modern currently generates a nine-figure annual revenue and is committed to generosity, donating at least 10% of annual profits to nonprofit organizations. Under Mike's leadership, the company has grown into a category leader for Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Sam's Club, serving more than 20 million customers worldwide.Mike is a teacher, leader, and entrepreneur at heart. Before founding Simple Modern, Mike began his career working for the worldwide Christian ministry CRU. Equipped with a deep understanding of the nonprofit sector, Mike transitioned into the business world and helped found and operate several e-commerce businesses, which cumulatively generated more than $1 billion in revenue. Mike graduated with a degree from the University of Oklahoma Price College of Business, where he currently serves as the senior entrepreneur-in-residence.For more on Mike you can find him on social media platforms, mikebeckhamblog.com as well as simplemodern.com Enjoy the show!

Bryan is the co-founder and chief e-commerce officer at Simple Modern. Simple Modern is a digitally native brand, having sold 50 million bottles in less than 10 years and did $250M in 2024. Simple Modern has grown into a category leader in all 50 states and eight countries around the world, making products that are good everywhere.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Overview of Simple Modern's growth and success in the drinkware market.Discussion of the company's journey from inception in 2015 to achieving $250 million in gross revenue in 2024.Importance of product quality and innovative design in driving brand success.Strategic decisions made by Simple Modern, including focus on drinkware and partnerships with major retailers.Challenges faced by the company, particularly in cash flow management and manufacturing defects.The role of effective marketing strategies, including leveraging social media platforms like TikTok.Insights on the significance of competition in the drinkware market and its impact on brand awareness.The value of strong relationships with manufacturers and partners in navigating business challenges.Emphasis on data-driven decision-making and quick feedback cycles in e-commerce.Advice for entrepreneurs on resilience, adaptability, and maintaining a long-term focus in a competitive landscape.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Bryan Porter, co-founder and Chief E-commerce Officer of Simple Modern. They discuss Simple Modern's impressive journey from its inception in 2015 to achieving $250 million in gross revenue by 2024. Bryan shares insights into the strategic decisions that propelled the brand to success, including a focus on product quality, innovative design, and effective marketing. He emphasizes the importance of strong partnerships, cash flow management, and resilience in overcoming challenges. This episode offers valuable lessons for business owners aiming to scale their e-commerce ventures to new heights.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Master Cash Flow EarlyHire a strong CFO and explore flexible financing options—like delayed tax payments or supplier credit—to avoid growth bottlenecks.Double Down on Key PartnershipsBuild deep, win-win relationships with select manufacturers to secure favorable terms and reduce inventory pressure.Always Be Amazon-ReadyKnow the pros and cons of 1P vs. 3P selling, and have a solid contingency plan to handle unexpected platform disruptions.Resources & Links SectionEcomm BreakthroughAmazonTikTok ShopTargetWalmartWhole FoodsDisneyFBA (Fulfillment by Amazon)Vendor CentralSiena AISimple ModernPracticing the Way by John Mark Comer on AmazonThe Operators on YouTubeBryan Porter on LinkedInBryan Porter on TwitterSpecial 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 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 E Gerber, author of the E-myth. Today I am speaking with Bryan Porter. Bryan is the co-founder and chief e-commerce officer at Simple Modern. Simple modern is a digitally native brand, having sold over 50 million bottles in less than ten years, and they did 250 million. You heard that right. $250 million in gross revenue in 2024. Simple. Modern has grown into a category leader ...

In this episode of Whole Hearted Leadership, Lantz Howard sits down with Mike Beckham, co-founder and CEO of Simple Modern to discuss the power of generosity in leadership and business. Mike shares his journey of building a purpose-driven company, how intentional relationships impact leadership, and the surprising connection between personal values and business success. Tune in to hear insights on leading with heart, balancing family and leadership, and why small, consistent actions create lasting impact."We exist to give generously. Since starting in 2016, we have given away over $10M to more than 1,000 non-profits. As a leading drinkware and consumer goods company, Simple Modern gives at least 10% of annual profits to communities around the world, equaling millions in donations since the company's founding in 2015."Key Topics:The role of generosity in leadershipLessons from building a purpose-driven companyThe intersection of business and personal valuesLeadership through intentional relationshipsHow to balance family and professional success--Lantz Howard helps high-level executives and faith-driven leaders strengthen their hearts, marriages, and businesses through Lead Wholeheartedly coaching. If you're ready to break free from burnout, realign your purpose, and build a thriving life from the inside out, connect with Lantz for a personalized coaching experience.www.lantzhoward.comwww.leadwholeheartedly.com

I don't need to explain to you how biologically imperative it is to stay hydrated, but despite that undeniable fact…us older generations somehow managed to not only survive but thrive without our beloved “emotional support water bottles.” But these reusable water bottles are more than a creature comfort…becoming a canvas for self-expression and personal statements of style among the newest generations. Though, like other status symbols…water bottles come with trends that fluctuate, with a new coveted “it” option rising above the rest every few years. But while I'm hardly a cultural expert on trendy water bottles, I can remember the first water bottle to be perhaps equated with a lifestyle was Nalgene. Next, everyone was carrying around a CamelBak water bottles. Then, a cluster of “trendy” insulated stainless steel bottles from brands like YETI, S'well, and Hydro Flask. As we passed into the current decade, Simple Modern really took control…along with the Stanley tumbler phenomenon . And then currently, I'd probably say the must-have water bottles are either Owala or Ello Cooper. Regardless, the constantly evolving landscape makes one thing clear…water bottle trends are firmly entrenched within our culture, reflecting a society that continually seeks to define itself. But has anyone considered how (beyond water bottle brand choice) further expressions of identity have been evolving from “what adorns the outside” to “what contents are inside”? In the age of TikTok, sharing creative use occasions of your wellness concoctions can be a vehicle to translate niche health trends and a reliable virality path. And in today's world, there are as many “powdered wellness supplements” as there are personalities, and your choices can say a lot about you. To go one step further…these (basically) aspirational mixtures have become (like water bottles) a symbol of status, representing flavor taste, lifestyle taste, and identity by association. But while the synergy between trendy water bottles and powdered hydration supplements might seem obvious, Simple Modern did something unusual when it recently launched TREVI hydration. But why are “stick pack electrolyte drinks” bringing all the boys to the yard? According to recent last 52-week retail data from Circana, dollar sales within the stick pack hydration drink mix category surpassed $1.5 billion (and grew around 20% YoY). And if you consider the various untracked sales channels like ecommerce, that total categorical market size would increase substantially…making it arguably one of the most intriguing functional beverage subcategories. But all this recent fragmented commercialization activity is possible because Liquid IV took one giant leap forward in democratizing the hydration category. In fact, without the “Liquid I.V. Effect” starting to take meaningful shape maybe 6-7 years ago, Simple Modern would not have a viable (let alone lucrative) marketplace to position TREVI hydration as a product for “everyday life.” Though, despite the strong effort by Simple Modern, I just don't believe we will see many more popular drinkware brands jumping into powdered wellness supplements (at least in the same manner of leveraging the drinkware brand equity). But when you understand that the entire supplement industry has mostly a “sea of sameness” composition…there's a chance that differentiation (and defensibility) could be derived from having a unique delivery system (and/or bottle form factor) like Cirkul or Gatorade Gx bottles.

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupMany if not most eCommerce brands spend 15-20% of revenue on advertising—Simple Modern? Just 5%.So how did they become a category leader in drinkware, dominate Amazon, and land major retail deals with Target?In this episode, Bryan Porter, Co-founder & Chief E-commerce Officer of Simple Modern, breaks down their low-ad spend, high-efficiency growth strategy and why focusing on brand trust, product variety, and Amazon SEO led to 50M+ products sold.What You'll Learn:✅ The Amazon playbook that helped them win top search rankings. ✅ Why they only spend 5% of revenue on ads—and how they drive organic growth. ✅ How they expanded from Amazon to Target without traditional advertising. ✅ Why TikTok virality boosted Amazon sales more than TikTok Shop itself. ✅ How launching an electrolyte brand (Trevi) creates long-term customer retention.One Big Idea:

What inspired the founding of Simple Modern in Oklahoma, and how has the company evolved since its establishment in 2015? Could you share some insights into the unique styles and designs that set Simple Modern products apart in the market?In what ways do you believe e-commerce can continue to evolve and innovate to better serve customers and communities in the future?  Can you tell us more about Simple Modern's commitment to giving back to communities worldwide through its profits?What role does innovation play in the ongoing success and growth of Simple Modern as a leading brand in the drinkware and consumer goods industry? Can you discuss any upcoming initiatives or projects that Simple Modern has planned to further its impact on communities or expand its product line?

Jennie shares a raw voice memo in this final episode of the season, offering a glimpse into her day and the spiritual lessons she's learned over the past six months. Jennie talks about how prayer, fasting, loving your enemy, and baptism may not always make sense, but they hold incredible power in the cosmic battle we are all a part of. These spiritual disciplines are not just symbolic—they are real and tangible acts of dependence on God that push back darkness. Tune in to hear how God is teaching Jennie to fight with faith and trust in His ways, even when they defy worldly logic. Want natural cleaning products, that actually work...and are a re-fill model? Yes, please! Grab the premium starter kit for 15% off with code MADEFORTHIS at www.branchbasics.com/madeforthis! We have LOVED partnering with Simple Modern all season long! You will see our whole team always using 20% off our favorite - www.simplemodern.com/madeforthis HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! Partner with us as we make a big end of your campaign with www.gather25.com CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jennie Allen is joined by gospel artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Growing up as a pastor's kid surrounded by music and the Word, Tasha shares how worship has shaped her life and ministry. Her passion is helping people find and fulfill their purpose through faith and worship. Tasha talks about her new devotional, Do It Anyway, inspired by her last conversation with her father, encouraging bold faith. She also opens up about the dangers of isolation and how it's where the enemy often attacks. This is why community is so vital—even when it feels easier to pull away. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about worship, purpose, and the importance of staying connected. You've heard us all season long tell you how much we love Simple Modern and they are our GO TO item for Christmas gifts! shop www.simplemodern.com/madeforthis and no code is needed when you shop our favorites! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! Check out Tasha's devo Do It Anyway CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jennie Allen reflects on this past season and her own life experiences from the fall. She reads from Psalm 91, a passage that reminds us of God's protection. Jennie shares a powerful story about a friend who has faced overwhelming suffering, raising the question many of us ask: Why is this happening? Jennie dives into the lie that hardship means God is angry or punishing us, and she reframes it with the truth that we are God's beloved. Don't miss the miracles and the ways He rescues you, even amid difficulty. Tune in as Jennie reminds us to notice the Lord's protection in every season. We absolutely love Simple Modern and we've made shopping easy by picking out our favorites and you can shop them for 20% off at www.simplemodern.com/madeforthis (no code needed). HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Download the Dream Guide today! Gather25 is coming up and we want you to join us - Learn more! CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jennie Allen is joined by Dr. Pamela Pyle, board-certified physician and author of the upcoming book Anticipating Heaven. Dr. Pyle, who also serves on the board of Africa New Life, shares her unique perspective on death and eternity, both as a doctor and a believer. In this episode, they discuss the confidence we can have when living with the hope of heaven. Whether facing a diagnosis, aging, or walking alongside someone nearing death, this conversation is filled with compassion and insight. Dr. Pyle explores how anticipating heaven gives us hope as we prepare to return to our eternal home with Jesus. If you or someone you love is walking through suffering, this episode will provide comfort, ease fears, and encourage you to hold on to the hope of heaven. Save 15% on your Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit when you use code MADEFORTHIS at branchbasics.com/MadeforThis We are grateful for Simple Modern making this season possible! Shop our favorites AND personalize them. No Code is necessary - Shop here! And don't forget - they exist to be generous ...it's our favorite thing about them! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Shop all our Simple Modern Favorites - No code necessary! Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! Pre-Order Dr. Pamela Pyle's book CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special, short episode, Jennie joins us via a voice memo while on the road, sharing how she's navigating spiritual warfare in real time. This raw and encouraging conversation touches on how faith and disappointment can coexist in the life of a believer. Simple Modern is changing the gift-giving game and we are starting our shopping with all our favorite things at the top of our lists! Shop Jennie's favorites and get 20% off HERE!! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Shop all our Simple Modern Favorites - No code necessary! Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! Learn more about Gather25! CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Jennie talks with Dallas Jenkins about his newest project, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. For Dallas, this film is more than nostalgic entertainment; it's the fulfillment of a calling. After years of praying for the chance to tell this story, he brings the Christmas message to life, sharing the true meaning of "unto you a child is born." Dallas believes that Christ came for everyone, especially the outsider and the overlooked.  Dallas also opens up about the challenges of surrendering outcomes to God, especially in a success-driven world. He shares how he's learned to offer his "five loaves and two fish" and leave the rest in God's hands, a lesson that has been central to both The Chosen and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Through storytelling, Dallas hopes to remove barriers that people often face with faith, presenting Jesus in a way that is both authentic and accessible. Don't miss The Best Christmas Pageant Ever in theaters on November 8th! Christmas with Simple Modern – Let Simple Modern make your gift-giving merry and bright this year by shopping Jennie's favorites for 20% off! Plus, 10 percent of all profits go to charity, spreading cheer far beyond the holidays. Simple Modern, it's good everywhere. HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Shop all our Simple Modern Favorites - No code necessary! Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! Watch The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Official Trailer CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Made For This, Jennie Allen sits down with Mart Green, founder and CEO of Mardel Christian Stores, to explore the transformative power of generational generosity and intimacy with God. Their conversation delves into how true generosity is a direct response to following Jesus, and Mart reflects on his three core values, reminding us that “we exist to give it away.” Mart also shares insights from his new book, co-authored with David Bowden, Learning to Be Loved: The Everyday Believer's Guide to a Rich Relationship with God. He emphasizes that you don't have to chase after intimacy with God; He is actively pursuing you! To wrap up the episode, Mart offers encouragement and practical steps for anyone feeling distant from God. You won't want to miss it! Are you looking for a place to preserve those precious memories of your kids? Duncan & Stone has a special offer just for you to enjoy their journals - get 20% off your first order with code: MADEFORTHIS! Head to duncanandstone.com to start your memory-making journey. Go to simplemodern.com/madeforthis to see an entire page of Jennie's Simple Modern favorites. Her entire collection is 20% off, which is an exclusive for Simple Modern's Made for This fans. No code is even necessary, visit simplemodern.com/madeforthis and the code is automatically applied when you add Jennie's favorites to your cart! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! Get a copy of Mart and David's book Learning to Be Loved. Resources from Mart Green, including Gateways of Intimacy. CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jennie Allen shares a powerful teaching on spiritual warfare from her home church (Watermark) at their Young Adult gathering, The Porch. Pastor Timothy Ateek sets the stage as Jennie dives into the reality of the unseen war around us. Jennie reminds us of the call to be alert and sober-minded, as 1 Peter 4:8 instructs. We can't ignore the battle God has invited us into. She also addresses two common lies: that either everything is the devil, or nothing is. The enemy's greatest desire is to go unnoticed, but we must be vigilant, recognize his schemes, and fight back. Don't coast—join the battle as a follower of Jesus! Did you know Simple Modern is incredibly generous?! It's one of the MANY reasons we love the company and its products! No Code is necessary - Shop here! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jennie Allen is joined by our friend John Eldredge, and they're diving deep into the realities of spiritual attack and authority. Right from the start, John teaches us how to pray over our homes and lives, giving us practical tools. He also tackles a question that many of us wonder about: How do you know when it's a spiritual attack? In this conversation, we hope you're equipped to recognize the enemy's schemes and push back the darkness with the authority given to you through Jesus and the power of God's Word. Save 15% on your Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit when you use code MADEFORTHIS at branchbasics.com/MadeforThis We are grateful for Simple Modern making this season possible! Shop our favorites AND personalize them. No Code is necessary - Shop here! And don't forget - they exist to be generous ...it's our favorite thing about them! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! Listen to John's Podcast, Wild At Heart, or grab his newest book, Resilient CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode, we pulled Jennie Allen's powerful talk from IF:Gathering 2023. Jennie opens up about a season in her life where she felt utterly exhausted and shares a thought-provoking question: What if God were coming back in 10 years? How would we live differently? How would we show up? Throughout this talk, Jennie dives into the two questions that have been transformative for her: God, what do you want me to know? and What do you want me to do? And don't miss the moment when she begins to read Ephesians 6 at the end—it's a strong reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare and the armor of God. We are grateful for Simple Modern making this season possible! Shop our favorites AND personalize them. No Code is necessary - Shop here! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Get tickets to join MADE FOR THIS LIVE on Jan 24th! CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jennie talks with Jonathan Almonte, Manager of Support Engagement for Compassion in the Dominican Republic. Jonathan shares his powerful story, not just about growing up in poverty, but the spiritual warfare and demonic worship often tied to it. He speaks about how the local church, with the support of Compassion, transformed his life and the lives of many others in his community. Jonathan emphasizes that sponsorship is not just a transactional act—it's bigger than that. The children and families supported by Compassion need of more than just material resources; they are in need of Jesus. Jonathan also opens up about emotional poverty and how something as simple as letters from his sponsor had a life-changing impact on him. This is a story of hope, faith, and the incredible work God is doing through Compassion and the local church. Join us in partnership with Compassion to release children from Poverty. Text JENNIE to 83393 and we will send you send you a picture of a child! We are grateful for Simple Modern making this season possible! Shop our favorites AND personalize them. No Code is necessary - Shop here! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, Jennie Allen is joined by Priscilla Shirer to talk about her latest movie, The Forge, which centers on the theme of discipleship. This conversation will challenge you to rethink the influence you have on those around you—don't underestimate it! Priscilla also shares about her new book, I Surrender All, where she asks a powerful question: What are you more devoted to than Jesus? This episode will inspire you to reflect on your own heart and surrender more fully to God. Don't miss the episode's closing, where Priscilla leads a powerful prayer. Join us for our first-ever Made For This LIVE event on January 24th in Dallas, TX. Joining Jennie will be Jonathan Pokluda, Shane & Shane, Davy Flowers, Clint Bruce, and more! Get tickets before they are released to the public next week! Purchase here! One of our favorite Simple Modern products is their coffee tumbler...and it's the season to use on! Grab it for 20% off and no code is necessary since it's on our favorites page! HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Purchase a copy of Priscilla's new book, I Surrender All and watch The Forge! CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube| Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest

In this week's episode, Jennie sits down with Lysa TerKeurst to talk about trust! If you've ever found yourself struggling to trust people—whether from hurt, disappointment, or even just annoyance—this conversation is for you. Lysa dives into the difference between foolish trust and wise trust, sharing some of the red flags to watch for in relationships. They also tackle some of the biggest questions we all face when it comes to trusting others and what to do when that trust is broken. Lysa wraps up with a powerful prayer and offers practical tools to help you move forward and heal. Duncan & Stone have a special offer just for you to enjoy their journals - get 20% off your first order with code: MADEFORTHIS! Head to duncanandstone.com to start your memory-making journey. HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Order Lysa's newest book - I Want to Trust You, but I Don't - Now available! Go to simplemodern.com/madeforthis to see an entire page of Jennie's Simple Modern favorites. Her entire collection is 20% off, which is an exclusive for Simple Modern's Made for This fans. No code is even necessary, visit simplemodern.com/madeforthis and the code is automatically applied when you add Jennie's favorites to your cart! CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest

Join us this season, every Tuesday and Thursday beginning September 17th, as we talk about Spiritual Warfare...a MUST-HAVE conversation! We are going to learn to fight back together and be on the offense. We are also going to have powerful conversations with friends and bring you stories about what God is doing across the world. Help us welcome our friends, Simple Modern, to the show! You will hear all season long how much we love these products and how this incredible company that makes great products is also generous! Go to simplemodern.com/madeforthis to see an entire page of Jennie's Simple Modern favorites. Her entire collection is 20% off, which is an exclusive for Simple Modern's Made for This fans. No code is even necessary, visit simplemodern.com/madeforthis, and the code is automatically applied when you add Jennie's favorites to your cart!

How can a business blend substantial growth with a robust culture of generosity? Today on the show, I'm joined by Mike Beckham, CEO and co-founder of Simple Modern, a nine-figure drinkware company nearly a decade old. Mike is also a well-known podcaster, hosting the Operators podcast and Scaling for Good. He is not only steering a thriving business, but also shaping a workplace culture rich in generosity and intention, and we're diving into his perspective on merging commercial success with meaningful corporate values. Listen in as Mike shares the intricacies of building a successful company while nurturing a positive company culture, the strategies behind Simple Modern's impressive growth, and how aligning business practices with personal values contributes to both employee satisfaction and company performance. Mike also opens up about the challenges of scaling a business without compromising on the foundational principles that make a company great, and the significance of cultivating a supportive and challenging work environment. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3UwfKw5 Interested in our Private Community for 7-Figure Store Owners?  Learn more here.   Want to hear about new episodes and eCommerce news round-ups?  Subscribe via email.

Mike Beckham is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Simple Modern, a leading producer of premium drinkware and lifestyle products. Founded in 2015 and based in Oklahoma, SimpleModern currently generates a nine-figure annual revenue and is committed to generosity, donating at least 10% of annual profits to nonprofit organizations. Under Mike's leadership, the company has grown into a category leader for Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Sam's Club. We discuss: Building Simple Modern during the peak of Yeti's domination Hypergrowth strategies and living in a future with AI The power of product licensing and building moats The disadvantages of selling products online We'd appreciate you filling out our audience survey, so we can continuously work on providing relevant content to our listeners.  https://www.thefortpod.com/survey Links Simple Modern Mike on X Topics (00:00:00) - Intro (00:03:48) - Starting Simple Modern (00:15:46) - How much thought do you need to put into a product as simple as a cup? (00:17:51) - The Stanley Phenomenon (00:22:06) - Influencer marketing (00:24:15) - The pros of hiring your friends (00:33:21) - Learnings from spending 10 years as a pastor (00:43:43) - Hypergrowth (00:48:05) - AI (00:55:23) - Product Licensing (01:04:00) - Building moats (01:09:07) - Does Amazon take more and more margin out of products as you grow? (01:18:35) - Becoming an ESOP (01:27:01) - Offshoring and China (01:34:22) - What are some disadvantages to selling online? Support our Sponsors Better Pitch: https://bit.ly/42d9L0I Fort Capital: https://bit.ly/FortCapital Follow Fort Capital on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/fort-capital/ Chris on Social Media: X: https://bit.ly/3BYIjcH LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45gIkFd   Watch The Fort on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3oynxNX Visit our website: https://bit.ly/43SOvys Leave a review on Apple: https://bit.ly/45crFD0 Leave a review on Spotify: https://bit.ly/3Krl9jO  The FORT is produced by Johnny Podcasts

Buy our NEW BOOK, The Score That Matters https://amzn.to/3TmmbkT Full show notes www.LearningLeader.com Think BIG... But choose what to be ambitious about. Get clear on that first. Simple Modern is a $225m bootstrapped business... Mike owns the majority of the company. Mission: "We exist to give generously." Simple Modern is an employee-owned Oklahoma based company whose mission statement is we exist to give generously. Our desire is to make 5-star products offering remarkable value so we can give to worthy organizations making the world a better place. Use the "75-year-old self principle:" - What would your 75-year-old self regret if you didn't do? (credit: Jeff Bezos) Leadership stages: Player Player/Coach Coach General Manager "I love the name of your podcast. You have to keep learning." What are the best and worst parts of being a CEO? Best: Building culture, being part of a community, having lunch every day with your team. It creates huge leverage to do great work. Worst: Stress, isolation. Understanding your identity? Is it too tied up in an unhealthy place?  Mike's purpose: Teaching Giving Leading and creating value Parenting Positively alter the lives of others (as many as possible) "Great leaders create more leaders. We measure it wrong. It should be about creating more leaders." The professor, Rufus Fears, started the lecture. The first thing out of his mouth was, "If you are here trying to get a pink slip, I can tell you that the class is full, and there will be no pink slips given." Mike did not let that stop him. He stayed after class, talked with Professor Fears, went to his office, and talked with him. And earned entry to his class (and a few others of his later). It's a great lesson that we need to be proactive and take initiative. We need to go after what we want. Is your identity coming from a healthy place? Is it coming from accomplishments, titles, or materialistic things? Money? Or have you found your identity in something bigger than yourself? A well-defined purpose almost always stems from helping other people. Why you should write: There are multiple levels of understanding. They are: You know nothing, then you have an intuitive understanding of something but you can't explain it to someone else, then you actually behave in a deliberate way and can explain it. That goes to a point where you can understand a situation in real-time. And finally, you get to the point where you can teach it to someone else. A writing practice can help clarify your thinking and help you better understand something so well that you can teach it to others. Let's develop a writing practice. Writing scales. Hosting a podcast scales. They also increase your surface area for luck and serendipity. Why Mike has no desire to sell Simple Modern: The whole point of having money is that we can trade it for things that are better than money. "You can't convert money to friendships. You can't buy things that give you meaning & purpose. Life is in pursuit of priceless things." Mike's favorite marketing pitch ever (Jon Hamm in Mad Men): Kodak asks for a branding campaign around a new product. It is a circular device that allows you to flip through pictures. Kodak hopes to  highlight the technology and call the product "the wheel." Then, they get a master class on branding from Jon Hamm in Mad Men… Before we can lead others well, we have to be internally healthy. Leadership is an inside-out exercise. What do you value? It is easy to determine what someone truly cares about: What do they do with their free time? Where do they spend their extra money? "I frequently spend time comparing what I say I value to what my behavior shows because the worst lies are the lies we tell ourselves."