

The Unofficial Shopify Podcast
Kurt Elster, Paul Reda
NEW EPISODES EVERY TUESDAY, SUBSCRIBE FOR UNBEATABLE ECOM RECON – Every Tuesday since 2014, host Kurt Elster shares the Shopify success stories that nobody tells you about, straight from the entrepreneurs living it. Subscribe for a raw look at what it really takes to succeed on Shopify.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 29, 2025 • 36min
How Shine Supply Hit $7M/yr Without Paid Ads
Colby Stevens, the mastermind behind Shine Supply, built a $7M detailing brand at just 23. He shares how he utilized Instagram ASMR videos and authentic storytelling to amass 80,000 organic followers without spending on ads. Colby discusses their unique review incentive system that fosters social proof and the powerful community they've created around their brand. Plus, he explains why they turned down millions from Amazon, emphasizing a commitment to integrity and genuine customer relationships.

Jul 22, 2025 • 48min
Viral Mattress Ads & Crowdfunding
Bryant Garvin, marketing lead at Ozlo Sleep and former CMO of Groove Life, shares insights on creating viral marketing success and performance branding. He discusses the groundbreaking pre-order strategy that helped launch Ozlo without shipping a single product. From his experience with Purple Mattress to scaling Groove Life, Bryant reveals secrets behind effective video marketing and upselling tactics. He emphasizes the importance of authentic engagement and innovative sleep technologies, showcasing how these strategies lead to substantial growth and customer connection.

Jul 15, 2025 • 43min
What 20M Shopify Surveys Reveal About Attribution
Matt Bahr, founder of Fairing and ex-Master & Dynamic, dives into the insights gained from 20 million post-purchase surveys. He reveals why last-click attribution is outdated and shares the one crucial question brands need to ask. Bahr discusses the rise of new advertising channels like AppLovin and connected TV, as well as the power of zero-party data for improved segmentation. Brands like Bombas and Thrive leverage surveys for actionable feedback, transforming their marketing strategies and boosting customer engagement.

Jul 8, 2025 • 48min
Top Shopify Conversion Mistakes
Shaun Brandt, co-founder of Oddit and a UX expert, shares his insights on improving Shopify store performance. He identifies seven common mistakes, such as poorly organized menus and intrusive pop-ups, that hinder conversions. Shaun emphasizes the importance of user experience and transparent pricing, while offering actionable solutions for both small businesses and larger brands. He also explores innovative promotional strategies to increase customer loyalty and highlights the significance of simplicity in design to enhance brand identity.

24 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 43min
SEO for AI: What Works, What’s Snake Oil
In this discussion, Jason Berkowitz, an SEO expert from Break the Web, cuts through the noise surrounding AI SEO solutions that often lack credibility. He emphasizes that effective SEO still reigns supreme despite the influx of flashy, AI-driven gimmicks. Jason shares valuable insights on adapting SEO strategies to leverage new technologies while navigating client misconceptions about AI. The conversation also highlights the importance of structured data, optimizing content, and maintaining human oversight in marketing to ensure meaningful connections with customers.

12 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 49min
How Divorce, Cancer, and TikTok Built a Shopify Brand
Sara Olsher, Founder of Mighty + Bright, transformed her personal challenges of divorce and a breast cancer diagnosis into a thriving Shopify business that helps individuals navigate tough life circumstances through visual tools. She discusses how she started with a handmade calendar for her toddler and scaled her brand organically, driven by customer feedback rather than ad spending. Sara also shares her viral success on TikTok, illustrating the power of community engagement and adaptability in entrepreneurship.

Jun 17, 2025 • 39min
Shopify POS V10: What’s New?
Ray Reddy, Shopify's VP of Retail, drives innovations in the Point of Sale system to empower local businesses. He unveils exciting new features in POS V10, including faster checkouts and split fulfillment options. The episode highlights the importance of customization and user-friendly interfaces, enhancing customer experiences. Reddy elaborates on tools like Cleverific that simplify order management and reduce support issues. This blend of technology and retail aims to make in-person selling smoother and more efficient.

Jun 10, 2025 • 60min
Inside Shopify Editions.dev 2025
Anne Thomas, co-founder of DesignPacks, dives into Shopify's AI-driven features unveiled at Editions.dev 2025. Ezra Firestone, founder of Smart Marketer, discusses the implications of a global cart and the evolving e-commerce landscape. Karl Meisterheim, author of Liquid Weekly, highlights the integration of AI for app development and theme customization. They explore challenges and innovations, including Shopify's push for enhanced site quality and user experience. Expect a blend of humor and insight as they navigate the future of commerce together!

Jun 3, 2025 • 37min
How BRĒZ Built a $28M Better-For-You Buzz Brand on Shopify
What if your Shopify brand could sell 16 million cans and hit $28M in its first full year? Aaron Nosbisch did just that with BRĒZ, a microdose drink brand that taps into the decline of alcohol, the rise of wellness, and a smarter ecommerce playbook. In this episode, he breaks down the entire journey—from ignored category to household name.Show LinksAaron Nosbisch: https://twitter.com/AaronJNosbischBRĒZ: https://drinkbrez.comLucyd: https://www.wearelucyd.comSponsors:Zipify – Build high-converting sales funnelsCleverific – Smart order editing for ShopifyViralsweep – Create sweepstakes, contests, and giveaways.Work with Kurt:Grow your Shopify store: https://ethercycle.com/applyJoin the newsletter: https://kurtelster.com/Subscribe for more Shopify founder stories.

May 27, 2025 • 52min
How a BOGO Deal Bootstrapped Neven Eyewear to Millions
Jonathan Strauss, the founder of Neven Eyewear and former CMO of Freestyle Watches, shares how a lost pair of sunglasses turned into a multi-million dollar eyewear brand through innovative BOGO offers. He discusses the challenges of bootstrapping a Shopify store, the impact of shifting Meta ad strategies, and the importance of adaptability in e-commerce. Additionally, he highlights the significance of customer trust, operational efficiency, and new product features like 360-degree views that enhance engagement.