108. Jordan West’s Guide to Social Commerce

In this episode, our host Eitan Koter chats with Jordan West, the founder of upGrowth Commerce, an E-Commerce investor and the host of the "Secrets to Scaling Your E-Commerce Brand" podcast.

As a fellow mountain biker, the conversation kicks off with some fun as Jordan recounts a recent mountain biking adventure in Cumberland, a mountain biking hotspot he recently explored. But the focus quickly shifts to the big issues shaping e-commerce today.

Jordan shares why upGrowth Commerce is laser-focused on social commerce, including platforms like TikTok Shop, and how these are becoming essential for brands looking to connect with customers in more authentic, engaging ways. He talks about the importance of founder-led growth and why authentic connections can be a real game-changer in a market that’s getting more competitive by the day.

We also get into why some big brands are dragging their feet on social commerce, while smaller, more nimble players are jumping in and seeing huge benefits. Jordan explains how upGrowth Commerce helps brands navigate this new terrain, using tools and strategies to maximize the "halo effect"—where success in one channel boosts performance across others.

From exploring effective marketing strategies to the future of social commerce, this episode offers plenty of real-world insights and straightforward advice. If you're looking to stay ahead in the world of e-commerce, you’ll find plenty to think about in this conversation.

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Guest: Jordan West, the founder of upGrowth Commerce.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-west-marketer/

upGrowth Commerce: http://www.upgrowthcommerce.com/

Watch the full Youtube video here:

https://youtu.be/TKpxpuZkPjU

Takeaways:

• Podcasting is a powerful tool for building influence and connecting with others.
• Authenticity and human connection are key in the age of AI.
• Social commerce, particularly TikTok Shop, is a growing channel that can drive growth and influence.
• Building a strong management structure is important for brand growth and potential acquisition.
• The e-commerce industry is facing challenges and opportunities, including brand valuation and the future of marketing.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Mountain Biking Stories

02:10 The Power of Podcasting and Building Influence

05:42 Authenticity and Human Connection in the Age of AI

09:07 The Rise of Social Commerce and TikTok Shop

13:17 Building a Strong Management Structure for Brand Growth

17:26 Challenges and Opportunities in the E-commerce Industry

23:12 Differentiation and Founder-led Growth

27:59 Brand Valuation and the M&A Industry

33:15 The Future of E-commerce and Emerging Trends