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 from my garage, to co-founding and scaling VisionPros.com (an optical DTC startup) through to a successful exit, then spending 6+ years as a Shopify Merchant Success Manager helping 100+ brands from startup to enterprise scale, including working with 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, scaling, and successfully exiting my own ecommerce businesses taught me what actually works when your money and reputation are on the line. That combination of insider access plus real operator experience gives you a perspective you won't find anywhere else.
Since 2018, eCommerce Fastlane has delivered over 430 episodes and more than 2 million downloads to ambitious Shopify founders and marketers. Every week, I chat 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 dig into Shopify apps, digital marketing, retention tactics, AI tools, and the operational stuff that actually reduces overwhelm—while building customer loyalty that lasts.
You'll learn how to leverage emerging tech without losing what makes your brand unique. You'll also hear real founder stories, including lessons from my own journey building and exiting a DTC brand, plus insights from guests across 430+ episodes who've been exactly where you are.
This isn't content for content's sake. It's what you'd get sitting at a mastermind table with someone who's built, scaled, and exited—and helped hundreds of others do the same.
Ready to grow smarter, not just faster? Join thousands of founders and marketers 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 from my garage, to co-founding and scaling VisionPros.com (an optical DTC startup) through to a successful exit, then spending 6+ years as a Shopify Merchant Success Manager helping 100+ brands from startup to enterprise scale, including working with 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, scaling, and successfully exiting my own ecommerce businesses taught me what actually works when your money and reputation are on the line. That combination of insider access plus real operator experience gives you a perspective you won't find anywhere else.
Since 2018, eCommerce Fastlane has delivered over 430 episodes and more than 2 million downloads to ambitious Shopify founders and marketers. Every week, I chat 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 dig into Shopify apps, digital marketing, retention tactics, AI tools, and the operational stuff that actually reduces overwhelm—while building customer loyalty that lasts.
You'll learn how to leverage emerging tech without losing what makes your brand unique. You'll also hear real founder stories, including lessons from my own journey building and exiting a DTC brand, plus insights from guests across 430+ episodes who've been exactly where you are.
This isn't content for content's sake. It's what you'd get sitting at a mastermind table with someone who's built, scaled, and exited—and helped hundreds of others do the same.
Ready to grow smarter, not just faster? Join thousands of founders and marketers 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 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.
Nov 14, 2024 • 39min
Beyond The Platform: Dylan Lam’s Strategies For Leveraging External Momentum On Amazon
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today, my guest is Dylan Lam, the Founder of Omirank.In this episode, Dylan shares his expertise on the “art of unconventional launch” and reveals his unique approach to Amazon selling that turns traditional ecommerce wisdom on its head.The Challenge with Traditional Amazon SellingDylan addresses the common pitfall of relying solely on tools like Helium 10 and Jungle Scout, revealing why 70% of sellers fail without proper validation. He introduces a comprehensive 4-step validation process essential for successful product launches.Throughout our conversation, we explore:The four crucial steps of product validationBuilding brand presence outside AmazonLeveraging external momentum for platform dominanceStrategic use of Kickstarter for community buildingManaging rising PPC costs effectivelyCapitalizing on TikTok Shop opportunitiesWhether you’re an Amazon seller, Shopify merchant, or multichannel retailer, this episode offers valuable insights to help you validate, launch, and scale your products successfully. 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 12, 2024 • 50min
Safeguarding Your Brand: Strategies To Combat Online Counterfeiting
Welcome to eCommerce Fastlane. Today, my guest is Stanley Ference is the Founding Principal Attorney at Ference and Associates.In this episode, Stanley shares his expertise on protecting your brand from counterfeiters and intellectual property theft, addressing three critical areas:Patents and TrademarksOnline Marketplace ProtectionSocial Media EnforcementStanley shares strategies for safeguarding intellectual property rights, combating counterfeits, and maintaining brand integrity in the digital marketplace. He introduces effective legal approaches for both startups and established brands facing counterfeiting challenges.Throughout our conversation, we explore:Understanding different types of intellectual property protectionCombating counterfeits on online marketplacesAddressing social media counterfeiting challengesImplementing effective enforcement strategiesManaging international intellectual property rightsLeveraging legal tools for brand protectionWhether you're a startup founder or an established brand owner, this episode offers crucial insights to help protect your intellectual property and maintain your brand's integrity in the digital marketplace. 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.
