AM/PM Podcast

Two bold founders share how they're revolutionizing period wear for active women. From startup struggles to wearable innovation, this is a story of purpose, power, and persistence. Join us as we sit down with two extraordinary entrepreneurs, Alayne and Angie, who are on the verge of launching an innovative product that merges functionality with empowerment in customized clothing. Alayne shares her remarkable journey from being a ballroom dancer to overcoming severe scoliosis, defying medical odds, and returning triumphantly to the dance floor. Angie's story is equally inspiring, as she talks about founding Pulse Body, a company aimed at providing practical period solutions for young dancers, inspired by her own daughter's experiences. Together, they are addressing a significant gap in the market, and their passion for empowering women is palpable throughout their journey. Our conversation also explores the strategic aspects of building a new brand in the e-commerce space, focusing on the integration of period liners into athletic clothing. We discuss the intricacies of patent and manufacturing logistics, including collaborations with overseas manufacturers and navigating patent protections. Alayne and Angie share their multi-faceted approach to brand growth, which includes direct-to-consumer sales, licensing to educational institutions, and retail expansion. Their dedication to creating a female-friendly brand that empowers athletes is evident, and their plans for future growth include moving some production to the US and securing exclusive patents. We wrap up with insights into their grassroots marketing strategies, highlighting the power of community-driven efforts and the importance of building a supportive network for new entrepreneurs. The episode covers creative approaches to social media marketing, the impact of relatable content, and the value of engaging smaller influencers to reach niche communities. Through early user feedback and innovative storytelling, Alayne and Angie are committed to refining their product and messaging, all while building a movement around women's empowerment. Their story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit, offering inspiration and valuable lessons for aspiring e-commerce business owners. In episode 456 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin, Alayne, and Angie discuss: 00:00 - Empowering Women Through Innovative Clothing 02:03 - Overcoming Adversity Through Passion for Dance 06:53 - Female-Centric Athletic Wear Innovation 13:29 - Navigating Global Patent and Manufacturing 14:54 - Developing a First Mover Product 20:22 - Launching a Unique Female Product 22:51 - Building Awareness for Female Wellness 28:11 - Harnessing the Power of Personal Stories 31:50 - Teen-Focused Period Liners in Various Sizes 34:04 - Building a Supportive Entrepreneurial Community 37:04 - Utilizing Resources for Business Growth 44:34 - Empowering Women Through Grassroots Marketing 45:08 - Community Building for AI Product 48:59 - Creative Marketing Strategies for Female Empowerment 52:13 - Empowering Women Through Marketing 59:29 - Building a Successful Business Movement 1:00:36 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

Global competition is killing Western sellers. This episode’s guest shares how to survive tariffs, copycats, and shifting supply chains in this must-hear e-commerce deep dive.   E-commerce enthusiasts and entrepreneurs, you're in for a treat as we sit down with Bernie Thompson, a pioneering eight-figure Amazon seller and former software engineer with industry giants like IBM and Microsoft. Bernie charts a thrilling journey from his tech roots to establishing a successful electronics company in the early days of Amazon's marketplace. Our conversation unveils the seismic shifts in the e-commerce landscape, where timing, innovation, and an adaptable mindset are key to thriving amid intense global competition.   We're not shying away from the hard-hitting challenges Western sellers face, particularly in the electronics sector. Bernie opens up about navigating the choppy waters of tariffs and fierce competition from aggressive Chinese brands. Misleading product claims and the difficulty of enforcing regulations in this digital age add another layer of complexity. Through it all, Bernie underscores the vital role of strategic planning and intellectual property protection as pillars for sustaining growth and innovation.   As we wrap up, we cast an eye on the future, spotlighting the transformative power of AI in product development and global business competitiveness. From scaling operations with AI-driven tools to the need for systemic changes in American manufacturing, our discussion highlights the strategic moves necessary to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving global market. Join us for an episode brimming with insights, whether you're an industry veteran or a curious newcomer eager to understand the forces reshaping e-commerce and manufacturing today. In episode 455 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Bernie discuss: 00:00 - E-Commerce Innovations With Bernie Thompson 03:06 - Fortunate Timing for Amazon Seller 08:59 - Navigating Tariff Challenges in the Electronics Category 11:35 - Rise of Chinese Brands in Electronics 20:32 - Challenges of Western Electronics Industry 25:31 - Challenges in Opening Chip Plant 26:57 - Strategies for American Manufacturing Competitiveness 31:08 - Navigating Global Electronics Manufacturing 32:04 - Technological Innovations and Global Competition 36:29 - Intellectual Property and Sourcing Strategy 43:56 - Manufacturing Support Discrepancy Between Countries 47:01 - Labor and Automation in China 52:20 - Impact of AI on Product Development 53:20 - Cultural and Mental Shifts in Business 58:00 - The Power of AI in Business 1:02:26 - Strategic Implementation of AI in Business

Learn how to defend your Amazon brand from overseas knockoffs. Today’s guest shares real IP battles, counterfeiting tactics, and strategies for protecting your e-commerce success.   Can your Amazon brand survive the onslaught of 153 knockoffs? Hear from Chris Keef, our expert guest, as he unravels the harrowing tale of an Amazon seller who faced this exact nightmare and navigated the turbulent waters of account suspension despite a fortress of patents and trademarks. Chris brings a wealth of knowledge from his dual experiences in the corporate and e-commerce worlds, offering listeners a roadmap for maintaining a competitive edge through robust intellectual property strategies and unique product offerings."   In a world where unauthorized sellers and 'hijackers' lurk around every corner of online marketplaces, protecting your Amazon listing becomes a high-stakes game. We dive into the systemic issues within online marketplaces, shedding light on the stark contrast between e-commerce and traditional retail environments. Through gripping case studies, Chris and Kevin expose how low barriers to entry often lead to shortcuts and unethical practices, and how sellers can strategically plan and fortify their defenses with tools like Amazon's brand registry and the Apex program.   Discover strategic approaches for combating false advertising and counterfeit threats while learning how to leverage brand protection services like AMZ Watchdog. Not only do we emphasize the importance of resilience and assertiveness in safeguarding your brand, but we also explore innovative strategies for thriving in the e-commerce landscape. From creating a digital moat around your products to utilizing emerging platforms like TikTok for brand growth, this episode is packed with insights to empower you against unfair practices and position your brand for success.   In episode 454 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Chris discuss: 00:00 - Protecting Your Amazon Listing Strategies 00:04 - Rising Competition in Online Sales  06:42 - Concerns About Data Security 13:32 - Navigating IP Protection in Global E-Commerce 16:54 - Intellectual Property Rights Across Borders 18:55 - Combatting False Advertising in E-Commerce 20:11 - Retail vs E-Commerce Growth Differences 30:12 - Strategic Approaches to IP Protection 40:32 - Negotiating for Release of Product 41:33 - Navigating Brand Protection in E-Commerce 45:11 - Navigating E-Commerce Challenges and Innovations 47:15 - Competitive Strategies in Global Business 52:48 - Utilizing TikTok for Brand Success 53:59 - Protecting Brands in E-Commerce 59:13 - Supporting Amazon Sellers Through AMZ Watchdog  1:00:40 - Kevin's Words of Wisdom

Social commerce is booming. Learn how brands use TikTok Shop, influencer campaigns, and spark ads to drive engagement and how it boosts your Amazon sales.   Can TikTok Shop really be the ultimate game-changer for brands aiming to make millions together with Amazon? Join us as we welcome Sohun Sanka, who brings firsthand experience from TikTok Shop's inception in the US, to uncover the secrets behind this booming social commerce platform. From algorithms to government scrutiny, we dissect what makes TikTok a revolutionary tool for brand success and how it stands apart from traditional platforms like Amazon and Shopify.   Discover how TikTok Shop's seamless in-app purchasing is setting new standards in e-commerce, offering brands lower CPMs and remarkable attribution capabilities. We take you through the maze of TikTok's advertising landscape, highlighting innovative ad types like Spark ads and live shopping ads that are transforming consumer engagement. Learn the strategic differences between organic content and paid ads, and why TikTok's approach to integrating shopping links directly into videos can potentially skyrocket your brand's conversions and awareness.   Engaging influencers effectively on TikTok is more than just a trend; it's a necessity. We explore the evolving landscape of influencer marketing with a focus on performance-based agreements and gamification. Hear about the transition from flat fee models to dynamic commission structures, and how brands are fostering communities of brand ambassadors to drive unmatched success. Dive into the intricacies of TikTok's strict content guidelines and discover how clear content blueprints can elevate your affiliate program. With Sohun's insights, unlock the potential to optimize your brand's impact on TikTok Shop like never before.   In episode 453 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Sohun discuss: 00:00 - TikTok Shop Strategy and Success 02:32 - Early Days of TikTok Shop 10:46 - The Power of Social Commerce 13:38 - TikTok Shop Advertising Strategy Insights 18:54 - Boosting Amazon Sales Through TikTok 19:32 - Effective Influencer Acquisition Strategies 24:45 - Creator Acquisition Lever Through Contests 27:22 - Influencer Retainer Strategies & Success 29:06 - Influencer Ambassador Program Success Strategies 34:28 - Strategic Approach to TikTok Marketing 36:41 - TikTok Shop Rules and Strategies 40:10 - Impact of Brand Affiliate Programs

Kamaljit Singh, an expert in Amazon listing optimization and founder of AMZ One Step, shares invaluable insights. He emphasizes that fixing product listings is a key to boosting Amazon sales without added ad costs. Delve into the pivotal role of high-quality imagery and psychological tactics that appeal to customer avatars. Explore how AI tools like Amazon Recognition can revolutionize operations and enhance product listings. Kamal also discusses the importance of adaptive strategies and global collaborations in today's e-commerce landscape.

Isaac Hetzroni, aka @thesourcingguy, is a sourcing expert with a rich manufacturing background from his family's factories. He shares invaluable tips on navigating China's complexities, revealing why the country remains a top choice despite the push for diversification. Isaac emphasizes the significance of personal connections, or Guangxi, in building successful supplier relationships. He also discusses how AI can bridge cultural barriers and enhance sourcing strategies, making the process both insightful and entertaining.

From launching rockets to scaling 8-figure brands, our guest shares AI hacks, PPC wins, & the secret tactic he learned in Helium 10 Elite that made him millions on Amazon. Join us for an exciting conversation with Jerry Vida, an 8-figure Amazon seller with 17 years of e-commerce experience and a rocket-building hobby on the side. He shares his remarkable journey of navigating the Amazon landscape and achieving substantial sales success. Jerry opens up about his transition from struggling with PPC agencies to founding his own successful PPC agency. He recounts a pivotal moment from a Helium 10 Elite hack that helped him optimize lightning deals scheduling and significantly boost sales. Together, we reflect on the power of actionable insights, the role of AI in business, and the value of staying informed through curated content like newsletters. As we explore the future of e-commerce, we discuss the transformative impact of AI technology on the industry. From reducing the need for large teams to enabling data-driven decision-making, AI is reshaping the way we analyze products, develop customer profiles, and create targeted marketing content. Listen in as we examine the shift from traditional keyword-based systems to intent-based models that better understand customer behavior and preferences. By leveraging AI and real-time data, we can craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse buyer personas and ultimately enhance branding and marketing strategies.   Finally, we tackle the intricacies of maximizing profitability on Amazon, emphasizing a holistic approach that considers all aspects of the Amazon ecosystem. We touch on the debate between flat fees and profit-sharing models in agency partnerships and the importance of selecting high-quality clients. Additionally, we discuss strategies for leveraging Amazon as a powerful tool for customer acquisition, using product inserts and targeted marketing sequences to build a loyal customer base. Throughout this episode, Jerry and Kevin share insights from their own experiences and highlight opportunities for elevating e-commerce ventures to new heights. In episode 450 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jerry discuss: 00:00 - E-Commerce Expert Discusses Amazon Success 02:06 - Lightning Deal Hack Success Story 04:21 - Benefits of Industry-Focused Newsletters 09:08 - AI Technology in E-Commerce Growth 10:41 - Engineers Excel in E-Commerce Sales 17:52 - Maximizing Profitability Through AI Technology 20:52 - Switching From Agencies to Internal PPC 25:15 - Maximizing Profitability With Amazon Strategies 28:13 - Maximizing Profitability Through Amazon Optimization 31:54 - Future of E-Commerce 37:38 - Optimizing Product Listings for Multiple Avatars 44:02 - Leveraging Amazon for Customer Acquisition 47:39 - Rocket Science and E-Commerce Integration 48:12 - Description of Visuals on YouTube 53:14 - Rocket Launch Safety and Precautions 55:33 - Unlocking Success in E-Commerce

Antonio Bindi, an eight-figure Amazon seller from Brazil, shares his remarkable journey from dentistry to dominating e-commerce. He highlights the intricacies of global expansion, tackling tariffs, and streamlining logistics. Bindi dives into the rising challenges for sellers in Brazil and the contrasting landscapes of Amazon and MercadoLibre. He also reveals how AI can optimize product listings, making them more visible than ever. With personal anecdotes about travel rewards and adventures, this discussion is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.

In this episode, our guest explores AI’s impact on e-commerce, from voice search to prompt engineering, revealing strategies to future-proof your Amazon and online retail success. Andrew Bell, a thought leader in AI and e-commerce, takes us on his remarkable journey from studying ancient Greek and preaching to becoming a leading voice in the intersection of AI and online retail. He shares personal stories, including the influence of his late grandfather, a top contract negotiator, and his wife's inspiring story of being adopted from Ethiopia and launching a business that supports her orphanage. Andrew's insights into the e-commerce world reveal his strategic role in the growth of brands like Touch of Class on Amazon and his tenure as the Amazon lead for the National Fire Protection Association, where he champions the representation of vital safety standards. Explore the evolving landscape of AI in e-commerce, where image generation and large language models redefine user experience. Andrew shares success stories stemming from industry networking, illustrating how connections at conferences can lead to collaborations featured in prestigious outlets like Forbes. With an eye on the future, Andrew and I discuss emerging trends, such as the shift towards remote work and the decline of traditional keyword optimization. The conversation unveils new strategies like Omni Search Optimization and the rise of voice search, underlining the transformative role of AI in shaping the future of search and branding. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of AI-assisted tasks, where prompt engineering and multimodal strategies are revolutionizing human capabilities. Andrew emphasizes AI's potential to enhance rather than replace human skills, allowing for greater creativity and specialization. The discussion highlights innovative uses of AI, such as personalized recommendations and problem-solving via personality type consultations. By mastering AI technologies, businesses can optimize operations and scale efficiency, turning AI into a pivotal tool for growth and creativity in the digital age. In episode 448 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Andrew discuss: 00:00 - AI in E-Commerce With Andrew Bell 05:01 - Learning Amazon Selling With Freedom Ticket  09:21 - Tech Innovations Discussed in Conversation 11:44 - Business Transition to Amazon Lead Role 18:08 - Remote Work Career Shift and Creativity 18:23 - Emerging Trends in E-Commerce Optimization 22:01 - Omni Search Optimization Paradigm 28:02 - Answer vs Generative Engine Optimization 31:07 - Voice Search in E-Commerce Future 35:40 - Voice Search and Productivity Implications 36:01 - Optimizing AI Prompting Strategies 43:59 - Role of Agents in E-Commerce 44:48 - Augmenting Skills With AI Technology 48:07 - Personalized Knee Brace Recommendations Using AI 51:55 - Debates on AI Adoption in E-commerce Businesses 57:16 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

Ex-Amazon insider Kara Babb shares how to use social media, branding, and AI to build unforgettable brands and drive real emotional connections with customers. Kara Babb, a former Amazon vendor manager, joins us to unravel the complexities of branding in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape. Drawing from her rich experience, Kara emphasizes the necessity of an omnichannel strategy, highlighting how sustainable brand success relies heavily on building a presence both on and off Amazon. She shares her insights on the significance of external traffic and creative brand awareness campaigns, with compelling examples like Poppy and BirdBuddy, to show how they can create sales surges and foster growth in the competitive market. Our exploration takes a fascinating turn as we examine BirdBuddy's innovative use of TikTok to capture the millennial and Gen Z audience, uncovering how creative content strategies can lead to explosive viral success. We discuss the hurdles platforms like Amazon face in the realm of social media, and the cultural barriers that live shopping encounters in the West compared to its success in Asia. Kara provides a nuanced understanding of why companies like Amazon and TikTok sometimes struggle when stepping outside their core competencies, offering a window into the future of digital engagement and consumer interaction. The conversation moves toward the frontier of AI in shopping, where we discuss how platforms like TikTok and AI models are reshaping consumer search behaviors. We introduce the concept of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and its implications for brand strategies, particularly for smaller sellers facing rising costs and international competition. Wrapping up, we delve into how brands like Scrub Daddy, Apple, and Chanel create deep emotional connections with their customers, emphasizing the power of brand identity to transcend mere transactions and maintain a lasting presence in consumers' lives. In episode 447 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Kara discuss: 00:00 - Branding and Social Media Strategy for E-commerce 01:59 - 1P & 3P Consulting Experience at Amazon 06:52 - Understanding the Concept of Branding for Amazon Sellers 09:45 - Bridging E-Commerce and Branding With Social 13:32 - TikTok Marketing and E-Commerce Insights 14:49 - Utilizing TikTok Trends for Business Success 18:47 - Cultural Differences in Live Shopping 28:13 - AI and Shopping Integration in AILMs (46 Seconds) 34:17 - Future of Social Media and TikTok 35:11 - Building Brand Affinity and Community Engagement 39:10 - The Value of Branding in Selling Online 45:32 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom