eCommerce Fastlane: Shopify Growth Strategies—Where AI Efficiency Meets Human Connection
Steve Hutt | Shopify and eCommerce Expert
Running a Shopify store? You already know success isn't about finding the right app—it's about knowing which strategies actually work at your specific stage of growth.
I'm Steve Hutt, and I've lived every level of the ecommerce journey—from eBay Power Seller shipping products myself to Shopify Merchant Success Manager helping 100+ brands from startup to enterprise scale, including working with the teams at Tentree, Dr. Squatch, Bulletproof Coffee, Salt & Straw Ice Cream, MUD/WTR, Bokksu, and many more.
Here's what makes this podcast different: I've been on both sides of the table.
6+ years working inside Shopify gave me access to what's coming before most merchants know it exists. Building and scaling my own businesses taught me what actually works when your money and reputation are on the line. That combination—insider access plus real operator experience—gives you a perspective you won't find anywhere else.
Since 2016, eCommerce Fastlane has delivered over 420 episodes and more than 2 million downloads to ambitious Shopify founders and marketers. Every week, I sit down with operators, developers, and experts who share what's actually moving the needle right now—not theory, but patterns I've seen work consistently across dozens of brands at multiple stages.
Whether you're launching your first store or scaling past seven figures, every episode gives you stage-aware strategies you can implement this week. We cover Shopify apps and best practices, digital marketing and retention tactics, AI and automation tools, as well as operations and logistics that reduce overwhelm while building lasting customer loyalty.
You'll discover how to leverage emerging tech without losing what makes your brand unique, and you'll hear real founder stories—including lessons from my own journey and insights from 400+ industry leaders who've been exactly where you are.
This isn't content for content's sake. It's the insight you'd get sitting at a mastermind table with someone who's succeeded at every level, helped hundreds of others do the same, and has the pattern recognition to show you what actually works at your current stage.
Ready to grow smarter, not just faster? Join 30,000+ merchants in the eCommerce Fastlane community through our podcast, newsletter, blog, and forthcoming book "Thriving with Shopify."
Steve Hutt
DTC Founder | Podcast Host
Find Us Online
Website: eCommerceFastlane.com
Newsletter: FastlaneInsider.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shutt
X: x.com/stevenhutt
Instagram: instagram.com/ecommercefastlane
Email: steve@ecommercefastlane.com
I'm Steve Hutt, and I've lived every level of the ecommerce journey—from eBay Power Seller shipping products myself to Shopify Merchant Success Manager helping 100+ brands from startup to enterprise scale, including working with the teams at Tentree, Dr. Squatch, Bulletproof Coffee, Salt & Straw Ice Cream, MUD/WTR, Bokksu, and many more.
Here's what makes this podcast different: I've been on both sides of the table.
6+ years working inside Shopify gave me access to what's coming before most merchants know it exists. Building and scaling my own businesses taught me what actually works when your money and reputation are on the line. That combination—insider access plus real operator experience—gives you a perspective you won't find anywhere else.
Since 2016, eCommerce Fastlane has delivered over 420 episodes and more than 2 million downloads to ambitious Shopify founders and marketers. Every week, I sit down with operators, developers, and experts who share what's actually moving the needle right now—not theory, but patterns I've seen work consistently across dozens of brands at multiple stages.
Whether you're launching your first store or scaling past seven figures, every episode gives you stage-aware strategies you can implement this week. We cover Shopify apps and best practices, digital marketing and retention tactics, AI and automation tools, as well as operations and logistics that reduce overwhelm while building lasting customer loyalty.
You'll discover how to leverage emerging tech without losing what makes your brand unique, and you'll hear real founder stories—including lessons from my own journey and insights from 400+ industry leaders who've been exactly where you are.
This isn't content for content's sake. It's the insight you'd get sitting at a mastermind table with someone who's succeeded at every level, helped hundreds of others do the same, and has the pattern recognition to show you what actually works at your current stage.
Ready to grow smarter, not just faster? Join 30,000+ merchants in the eCommerce Fastlane community through our podcast, newsletter, blog, and forthcoming book "Thriving with Shopify."
Steve Hutt
DTC Founder | Podcast Host
Find Us Online
Website: eCommerceFastlane.com
Newsletter: FastlaneInsider.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shutt
X: x.com/stevenhutt
Instagram: instagram.com/ecommercefastlane
Email: steve@ecommercefastlane.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 21, 2025 • 46min
Delivering Better Customer Experiences Through Integrated Supply Chain
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today my guest is Sean Henry, Co-Founder and CEO of Stord.In this episode, Sean shares how Stord is transforming the logistics and fulfillment landscape for Shopify-powered brands. He dives into the challenges brands face in managing post-purchase experiences and how Stord’s innovative platform eliminates the inefficiencies of fragmented systems.Sean explores the big opportunities for e-commerce brands, including:Leveraging scalable logistics solutions to reduce costs and improve delivery times.Providing a seamless post-purchase experience to increase customer loyalty and lifetime value.Using data-driven insights to enhance inventory planning, demand forecasting, and operational efficiency.During our discussion, we explore:The pitfalls of traditional fulfillment and last-mile delivery.How Stord combines software, data, and scale to offer Amazon-like experiences to all brands.The role of predictive analytics in optimizing inventory and shipping decisions.Strategies for turning logistics from a cost center into a profit center.Practical solutions for returns management, international shipping, and handling seasonal demand.Whether you’re a startup founder or a seasoned marketer, this episode offers actionable strategies to maximize your advertising efficiency, boost revenue, and drive customer loyalty. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
Jan 14, 2025 • 43min
Breaking Free From The Black Box: Transparent Ad Automation For Ecommerce
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today my guests are Mitsunaga Kikuchi, Founder and CEO of Shirofune, and Rocco Baldassarre, VP of Account Strategy.In this episode, Mitsunaga and Rocco discuss how Shirofune blends human intelligence and automation to optimize digital advertising like never before. We dive into topics like:Simplifying Campaign Management: Automating budgeting, bidding, and performance analysis to save hours of manual work.Overcoming Data Overload: Managing omnichannel campaigns across platforms like Google, Meta, TikTok, and Amazon.Targeting New Customers Effectively: Leveraging lifetime ROAS (Return on Ad Spend) and LTV (Lifetime Value) metrics for long-term success.Demystifying the “Black Box” of Algorithms: Offering transparent, actionable insights compared to traditional AI-powered tools.Integrating with Shopify and Attribution Tools: Enhancing ad performance by combining Shirofune with platforms like Triple Whale and NorthBeam.Whether you’re a startup founder or a seasoned marketer, this episode offers actionable strategies to maximize your advertising efficiency, boost revenue, and drive customer loyalty. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
Jan 7, 2025 • 25min
Scaling Video Content At Speed: Inside Airpost.ai’s AI-Powered Platform
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today my guest is John Gargiulo the Co-Founder and CEO of AirPost.In this episode, we explore Airpost’s revolutionary approach to video content creation for Shopify brands. Our conversation delves into:AI-powered video content generation at scaleStreamlined social media ad productionProfessional studio integration with technologyAffordable content creation for growing brandsPerformance-driven creative frameworksWhether you’re a solopreneur, marketing leader, or ecommerce brand, this episode provides actionable insights to enhance your video content strategy and social media advertising effectiveness. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
Dec 20, 2024 • 27min
Unboxing Success: How Custom Packaging Drives Customer Loyalty
Philip Akhzar, the visionary founder and CEO of Arka, discusses transforming the packaging industry with sustainable and cost-effective solutions. He highlights how optimized packaging can enhance the post-purchase experience and even save up to 30% in costs. Philip explains the role of AI in improving efficiency and the importance of using recycled materials without the premium price. He also underscores how memorable unboxing experiences boost brand loyalty and community engagement, proving that packaging is vital for eCommerce success.
Dec 11, 2024 • 46min
Simplifying Multi-Channel Commerce: How Pipe17 is Revolutionizing Order Operations
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today, my guest is Mo Afshar, the Founder and CEO of Pipe17.In this episode, we uncover Pipe17’s innovative approach to solving operational complexities for scaling Shopify brands. Our conversation explores:Evolution from basic Shopify operations to unified commerceStrategic implementation of ERP and multi-channel integrationAI-powered operational optimizationEnterprise-grade solutions for scaling brandsReal-world success stories from leading DTC brandsWhether you’re a founder, operations leader, or ecommerce expert, this episode offers valuable insights to help optimize your operational infrastructure and boost efficiency for your Shopify store. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
Dec 11, 2024 • 45min
AI-Powered SMS Marketing: How Postscript Is Revolutionizing Customer Engagement
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today, my guest is Mike Manheimer, the Chief Customer Officer of Postscript.In this episode, Mike reveals PostScript’s innovative approach to SMS marketing, highlighting their AI Infinity Testing technology and strategic solutions for Shopify merchants. In our conversation we explore:Evolution from basic SMS blasts to sophisticated AI-powered campaignsStrategic implementation of compliant SMS opt-in processesIntegration capabilities with Shopify and other technology partnersPostScript Plus managed services for scaling brandsReal-world success stories from leading DTC brandsWhether you’re a founder, marketer, or ecommerce expert, this episode offers valuable insights to help optimize your SMS marketing strategy and boost revenue for your Shopify store. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
16 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 32min
E-commerce Innovation: How Sticker Mule Disrupted Custom Printing
Anthony Constantino, Founder and CEO of Sticker Mule, transforms custom printing with innovation and speed. He discusses building an internet manufacturing company and the impact of technology on production processes. The launch of Sticker Mule Stores empowers creators to sell custom merchandise effortlessly. Constantino predicts the shift to digital technologies will reshape the printing industry and emphasizes the importance of user experience in attracting customers. Dive into strategies for maintaining quality while expanding product lines!
Nov 26, 2024 • 37min
Scaling, Selling, And Supporting Other Founders: How Two DTC Entrepreneurs Are Reshaping Entrepreneurial Networks
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today, my guests are Aaron Spivak, former Co-Founder of Hush Blankets, and Chris Meade, Co-Founder of Crossnet.In this episode, these successful entrepreneurs share their journeys and insights on:Building Category-Defining Brands Scaling Through Retail Partnerships Creating Authentic Founder CommunitiesAaron and Chris discuss their experiences scaling DTC brands to 8-figure exits, navigating retail partnerships, and why they created a community to support high-growth founders.Throughout our conversation, we explore:Identifying and capitalizing on market opportunitiesTransitioning from DTC to omnichannel distributionBuilding authentic founder communitiesNavigating acquisitions and scaling challengesCreating meaningful founder relationshipsWhether you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or marketing expert, this episode offers valuable insights to help you build authentic connections and scale your Shopify-powered brand. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
Nov 21, 2024 • 46min
Simplifying Complex Sales: How Big Sur AI's Sales Agent Makes Product Discovery Effortless
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today, my guests are Vinod Kumar Ramachandran and Arnaud Weber, Co-Founders of Big Sur AI.In this episode, Vinod and Arnaud share their innovative approach to solving one of ecommerce's biggest challenges - converting more site visitors into customers while reducing dependency on paid advertising.The Challenge of the "Google Tax"The founders address how businesses, especially SMBs, struggle with:Rising customer acquisition costsUnsustainable ad spendingLow conversion rates averaging 2%Constant competition with larger brandsThroughout our conversation, we explore:How AI can level the playing field for businesses of all sizesCreating personalized shopping experiences that rival in-store interactionsTransforming product discovery and purchase decisionsGenerating actionable insights from customer interactionsWhether you're a founder, entrepreneur, or marketing expert, this episode offers valuable insights to help you improve conversions and reduce ad spending for your Shopify-powered brand. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
Nov 19, 2024 • 39min
Revolutionizing Social Commerce: How LoudCrowd Is Transforming Influencer Partnerships
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today, my guest is Gary Garofalo, the CEO & Founder of LoudCrowd.In this episode, Gary shares his innovative approach to creator commerce and how brands can leverage personalized storefronts to drive revenue through authentic influencer partnerships. We explore the three key challenges that brands face with traditional influencer marketing:Limited conversion ratesData ownership concernsComplex integration requirementsGary introduces LoudCrowd’s creator storefront solution, seamlessly connecting social media influence with e-commerce conversions while maintaining brand control and improving user experience.Throughout our conversation, we explore:Building and managing creator storefronts on ShopifyMaximizing conversion rates through personalized shopping experiencesProtecting customer data while empowering creatorsLeveraging SEO benefits from creator partnershipsPreparing for Q4 and holiday season successWhether you’re a DTC brand owner or marketing expert, this episode offers valuable insights to help you transform your influencer marketing strategy and boost your Shopify store’s performance. Reach out to us! We welcome questions and comments about this episode. Connect with us here or through our socials — your feedback is always welcome.TwitterLinkedInFacebookFor more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies, check out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog.TOPICS INCLUDE: Advertising, Affiliate Marketing, Amazon, Attribution, Automation, B2B, Brand, Customer Retention, Customer Support, Data + Analytics, Data Trust + Security, Dropshipping, Ecommerce SEO, Email Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Founder Stories, Influencer Marketing, Legal, Logistics, Shipping, Loyalty, Rewards, Retention Marketing, Marketing, Sales, Conversion, Money From Home, Operations, Payments, Finance, Tax, People, Personalization, Post Purchase Experience, Print On Demand, Product Development, Retail, Shopify POS, Reviews, Search, SMS Marketing, Social Commerce, Social Media, Live Shopping, Startup Ideas, Store Design, Mobile Apps, Sustainability, TikTok, Trends, Ultimate Guides, Web3, best Shopify apps, and more.
