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
Jul 1, 2024 • 32min
Breaking ERP Barriers: GoodDay OS Delivers Simplicity And Scale For Shopify
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we’re excited to have Kyle Hency, the Co-founder, CEO of GoodDay.In this episode, Kyle shares how GoodDay OS is shaking up the ERP world. Unlike traditional systems, GoodDay OS fits right into Shopify’s admin panel. This makes it super easy for business owners to use, without the headaches of complex software.We chat about why connecting different ERP systems can be tricky. Kyle explains how GoodDay works smoothly with Shopify and other tools you might use. This means less hassle for you and your team.One big plus of GoodDay? It helps brands of all sizes manage their data in one place. Kyle shares how this can really boost your business, whether you’re just starting out or already growing fast.We also talk money. Kyle reveals how GoodDay is making ERP systems more affordable, especially for smaller brands. They’re using smart pricing that grows with your business.If you’re tired of juggling spreadsheets and want a smarter way to run your eCommerce business, tune in. You’ll learn how GoodDay is helping brands step up their game with powerful, affordable, easy-to-use tools.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.
Jun 27, 2024 • 42min
Winning On Amazon: Insights from ChannelKey's CEO Dan Brownsher
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane! Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of Amazon selling with a true industry expert. I’m thrilled to introduce our guest, Dan Brownsher, the Founder and CEO of ChannelKey.Dan’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From his roots in mobile advertising to becoming a top Amazon seller, he’s now at the helm of ChannelKey, a powerhouse company with 85 experts dedicated to helping businesses thrive on Amazon. Their expertise spans account management and advertising strategies, making them a go-to resource for brands looking to make their mark on the platform.In this episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on Amazon selling. Dan shares invaluable insights on navigating Amazon’s complex landscape, from leveraging its trusted marketplace status to mastering its intricate advertising system. We’ll explore the challenges brands face, like managing returns and rising costs, and uncover savvy sellers' strategies to grow and succeed.You’ll hear real success stories of brands that have skyrocketed their sales using ChannelKey’s data-driven approaches and cutting-edge tools. Whether you’re an established Amazon seller or considering taking the plunge, this episode is packed with practical advice and eye-opening perspectives.So, get ready for a deep dive into the world of Amazon selling. Dan’s wealth of experience and ChannelKey’s impressive track record promise to deliver insights that could transform your approach to this powerful 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.TwitterLinkedInFacebookCheck out the eCommerce Fastlane Insights Blog for more ecommerce, marketing, and growth strategies.
Jun 20, 2024 • 37min
Flirt, Date, Marry: Elevate Your Business Valuation With Expert M&A Advice
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we're excited to have Emmett Kilduff, The Co-Founder and CEO of The Fortia Group.Emmett brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on the art of deal-making in the e-commerce world. He emphasizes the importance of taking a slower, more thoughtful approach to attract potential buyers and ensure a successful exit.We dive into the emotional challenges that brand founders face when considering selling their business. Emmett offers valuable advice on how thorough preparation and expert guidance can help maximize the value of your business.Throughout the episode, we explore the transformative role of AI in e-commerce, the crucial importance of solid financial planning, and what potential buyers are really looking for in a thriving e-commerce business.Whether you're thinking about an exit strategy for your own business or simply interested in staying up-to-date with the latest trends in e-commerce, this episode is full of expert insights and actionable advice that you won't want to miss.So sit back, relax, and let's dive into this fascinating conversation with Emmett Kilduff of The Fortia Group!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.
Jun 18, 2024 • 39min
Clearco's Non-Dilutive Funding Powers eCommerce Success Stories Like Adventure Challenge
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we have two amazing guests: Andrew Curtis, the CEO of Clearco, and Tim Marinello, the COO of The Adventure Challenge.Clearco is changing the game for ecommerce businesses by giving them new ways to get funding to grow. Andrew explains how Clearco helps all kinds of ecommerce entrepreneurs with fast, flexible funding. Tim shares the exciting story of how The Adventure Challenge used Clearco’s funding to expand worldwide, work with big retailers, and manage their seasonal sales cycle.We also discussed important topics like the challenges of marketing today, why data integrity matters, and how to succeed in selling in multiple places. You’ll learn about Clearco’s unique invoice funding model and how it helps brands grow in a smart way.Whether you want to diversify where you sell or get fair funding to take your business to the next level, this episode is full of valuable insights.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.
Jun 4, 2024 • 46min
Breaking The Black Box: How AI And Micro Experiments Transform Digital Marketing With Udayan Bose Of NetElixir
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we're excited to have Udayan Bose, the Founder and CEO of NetElixir.In this episode, we explore the evolution of digital marketing and the challenges businesses face with the growing lack of transparency and control on platforms like Google and Meta. Udayan reveals how NetElixir is breaking the "black box" of advertising through innovative strategies like micro-experiments, AI-powered customer segmentation, and the concept of aggregation of marginal gains. By focusing on identifying and targeting high-value customers, while also enhancing retention efforts, businesses can achieve significant improvements in their bottom line.We also discuss real-world success stories, like compression stocking company Ames Walker, which experienced an impressive 50% boost in growth after implementing NetElixir's solutions. The extra margins generated allowed the founders to reinvest in their business, hire more employees, and expand into new product lines.Tune in to this exciting episode to learn how NetElixir is revolutionizing the digital marketing landscape and helping businesses of all sizes achieve remarkable growth.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.
May 31, 2024 • 43min
The Power Of AI: Transform Your Amazon Marketing Strategy With Kazam
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we're excited to have Kusha Kavandi, the Founder and CEO of Kazam.In this episode, host Steve Hutt is joined by guest Kusha Karvandi, founder of Kazam, to discuss the changing dynamics of selling on Amazon and how his AI-based software is revolutionizing Amazon advertising for brands. From navigating the complexities of Amazon's increasing fees to unlocking the power of targeted advertising and optimizing product listings, Kusha shares invaluable insights on how businesses can scale and succeed in the competitive e-commerce space. Join us as we uncover the secrets to maximizing profitability on Amazon and staying ahead of the curve with innovative solutions like Kazam.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.
May 31, 2024 • 37min
Breaking Barriers In Fashion: How Dapper Boi Is Redefining Inclusive Apparel On Shopify With Vicky Pasche
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we're excited to have Vicky Pasche, the Founder and CEO of Dapper Boi.In this episode, Vicky shares the incredible journey of how she and her wife, Charise, identified a significant void in the market for non-binary clothing and launched Dapper Boi in 2015 through a successful Kickstarter campaign. From appearing on Shark Tank to leveraging platforms like TikTok and Shopify, Vicky reveals how Dapper Boi has grown into a community-focused brand that's impacting lives and fostering inclusivity.We'll dive into the strategic use of social media, the unique challenges of manufacturing, and the vital role of community engagement in building a loyal customer base. Plus, Vicky will share some of the heartwarming and transformative stories from their customers, emphasizing the profound impact that authentic, inclusive clothing can have on individual self-confidence and well-being.Get ready for a compelling conversation filled with actionable insights, powerful stories, and invaluable lessons for any entrepreneur looking to make a difference. This is an episode you won't want to miss! Let's get started.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.
May 31, 2024 • 40min
Behind The Scenes Of Perishable Shipping: Meet Grip, The Startup Spearheading Innovation With Juan Meisel
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we're excited to have Juan Meisel, the Founder and CEO of Grip.Grip launched in 2022 and has quickly become one of the fastest-growing companies in the perishable shipping industry. Their success is largely thanks to a strong focus on customer satisfaction and actively involving customers in product development from day one.Juan will share his journey from leading logistics at ButcherBox, one of the largest direct-to-consumer meat companies, to founding Grip. He'll shed light on the unique challenges of delivering fresh and frozen products to customers' doorsteps quickly and reliably. We'll explore how Grip's innovative AI-powered shipping engine optimizes deliveries based on factors like weather, temperature, and carrier performance to significantly reduce shipping costs by 30% and improve on-time deliveries.Additionally, we'll discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted consumer behavior, leading to a rise in fresh meal kit and grocery deliveries to homes. Juan will also share how Grip handles the complex issue of returns for perishable goods that can't be restocked due to food safety risks.Whether you're an ecommerce entrepreneur or a seasoned online retail veteran, this episode will provide valuable insights into mastering logistics for shipping fresh and frozen products.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.
May 15, 2024 • 37min
Drive Sales And Loyalty: Expert Insights Into Gatsby’s Impact On Klaviyo List Growth And Revenue
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we're excited to have Brett Bernstein, the Founder and CEO of Gatsby.Discover how Gatsby's new accessible pricing model, akin to Klaviyo's, is revolutionizing the way brands of all sizes scale their marketing efforts. Brett will walk us through Gatsby's seamless 30-minute setup process, its robust features like coupon codes, tracking referral sales, and the new functionality for capturing customer data directly through Instagram DMs.We'll also explore how Gatsby integrates with major platforms like Klaviyo and Shopify, enhancing your ability to engage customers and convert followers into brand advocates—all while navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media algorithms.Join us as we unpack the impressive impacts of list growth on revenue, discuss innovations in ambassador marketing, and hear real-world success stories from brands that have achieved significant growth through Gatsby. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, today's episode is packed with insights that could redefine your approach to eCommerce marketing. Let’s get started!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.
May 13, 2024 • 41min
Cart Recovery Secrets Revealed: How CartBoss Drives Impressive Results For Shopify Stores
Welcome to another episode of eCommerce Fastlane. Today, we're excited to have Tadej Bogataj, the Co-Founder of CartBoss, a company that is transforming the way eCommerce businesses leverage text message marketing. CartBoss offers a robust platform that enables you to send abandoned cart reminders and win-back messages, which not only boast impressive open and conversion rates but also maintain exceptionally low unsubscribe rates of less than 1%.One of the standout features of CartBoss is its commitment to making compliance with legal and privacy regulations like GDPR a breeze. Moreover, their seamless integration with popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify allows you to effortlessly set up checkout extensions and automatically incorporate discount codes into your messages.Throughout our discussion with Tadej, we will explore the strategic benefits of incorporating SMS marketing into your eCommerce store's strategy. You'll gain valuable insights into how these targeted messages can significantly increase your sales and keep your customers engaged at an unprecedented level.If you're prepared to elevate your online store to new heights, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we uncover the remarkable potential of SMS marketing with CartBoss and learn how you can start implementing these powerful strategies in your own business today.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.
