AM/PM Podcast

Amazon finally gets rid of the dreaded commingling. Will the post office stop delivering Amazon products? An important new rule for TikTok shop shipping. More stories on today’s Weekly Buzz! ► Watch The Podcasts On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AMPMPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 ► Instagram: instagram.com/serioussellerspodcast ► Free Amazon Seller Chrome Extension: https://h10.me/extension ► Sign Up For Helium 10: https://h10.me/signup  (Use SSP10 To Save 10% For Life) ► Learn How To Sell on Amazon: https://h10.me/ft We’re back with another episode of the AM/PM Podcast and Weekly Buzz with Helium 10’s VP of Education and Strategy, Bradley Sutton. Every week, we cover the latest breaking news in the Amazon, Walmart, and E-commerce space, talk about Helium 10’s newest features, and provide a training tip for the week for serious sellers of any level. Amazon: Commingling practices will end effective March 31, 2026 https://sellercentral.amazon.com/seller-news/articles/QVRWUERLSUtYMERFUiNHSktDTEM5N0s5MkRBWFAy Amazon in discussions with USPS about future relationship https://www.reuters.com/technology/amazon-explores-cutting-ties-with-usps-washington-post-reports-2025-12-04/ TikTok Shop tightens Postal Service shipping options for sellers https://www.retaildive.com/news/tiktok-shop-usps-label-requirements-change/807086/ Assess new brand names with Brand Name Evaluator https://sellercentral.amazon.com/seller-news/articles/QVRWUERLSUtYMERFUiNHVzNBWVRVTEZWN0VQWU1C Helium 10 is hosting an Elite workshop in Irvine, CA with sessions on AI SEO, TikTok Shop growth, and keyword research. Use code Elite100 at https://h10.me/q4workshop for a free $299 ticket. Lastly, an announcement for Helium 10’s podcasts. The AM/PM Podcast will now focus on news and expert-led strategy trainings for e-commerce sellers. For brand stories and seller journeys, subscribe to the Serious Sellers Podcast. In episode #478 of the AM/PM Podcast and Weekly Buzz by Helium 10, Bradley covers: 00:00 - Introduction 01:28 - RIP Commingling 08:58 - RIP USPS? 10:15 - Amazon Listing Sync 12:38 - RIP TikTok Shop USPS Labels 14:18 - TikTok Shop Ads 17:27 - Amazon Brand Evaluator 19:18 - Elite Workshop 20:29 - Serious Sellers Podcast Enjoy this episode? Want to be able to ask questions to Leo Sgovio live in a small group with other 7 and 8-figure Amazon sellers?  Join the Helium 10 Elite Mastermind and get monthly workshops, training, and networking calls with Kevin at h10.me/elite Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you listen to our podcast! 💰 Get Helium 10 with a special discount to start or scale your e-commerce business here: https://h10.me/h10 Want to absolutely start crushing it on eCommerce and make more money? Follow these steps for helpful resources to get started: Get the Ultimate Resource Guide from Bradley Sutton, Carrie Miller, and Shivali Patel for tools and services that he uses every day to dominate on Amazon! New to Selling on Amazon? Freedom Ticket offers the best tips, tricks, and strategies for beginners just starting out! Sign up for Freedom Ticket. Trying to Find a New Product? Get the most powerful Amazon product research tool in Black Box, available only at Helium 10! Start researching with Black Box. Want to Verify Your Product Idea? Use Xray in our Chrome extension to check how lucrative your next product idea is with over a dozen metrics of data! Download the Helium 10 Chrome Extension. The Ultimate Software Tool Suite for Amazon Sellers! Get more Helium 10 tools that can help you optimize your listings and increase sales for a low price! Sign up today! Does Amazon Owe YOU Money? Find Out for FREE! If you have been selling for over a year on Amazon, you may be owed money for lost or damaged inventory and not even know it. Get a FREE refund report to see how much you’re owed! Check out our other Amazon FBA podcasts including the Serious Sellers Podcast, as well as our Spanish and German versions! You can also listen to the AM/PM Podcast on YouTube here!    

Amazon truckload hijacked, TikTok Shop creator tactics, new AI tools & strategies, Amazon PPC recovery, and a full revamp of the AM/PM & Serious Sellers Podcasts.   In this episode, Bradley Sutton kicks off a brand-new era for both the AM/PM Podcast and the Serious Sellers Podcast with co-hosts Carrie Miller and Shivali Patel. This simulcast episode sets the tone for what’s coming next: more Amazon, TikTok Shop, Walmart, and AI-driven strategies designed to help you make money in the AM and the PM. Bradley also shares the new format for both shows, including Weekly Buzz moving to AM/PM Podcast, expert-led trainings, and a renewed focus on real seller stories on Serious Sellers Podcast every Monday.   From there, things get wild. Carrie tells the story of a truckload of her Amazon inventory being hijacked on the freeway like a scene straight out of Fast & Furious, complete with a fake carrier, turned-off tracking, ransom demands, and a loss that ballooned to around $70K after tariffs. She breaks down what she learned about freight, tariffs, switching manufacturing from China to Turkey, and why sellers need to be more hands-on with carriers and agencies alike. Shivali then shares her own hard lesson: a high-margin product that kept failing customers, forcing her to pull the listing and rebuild the brand off-Amazon using a digital-first strategy that pairs a makeup mastery course with a physical product bonus and a new funnel powered by Google Ads.   To round out the episode, Shivali walks through exactly how she became a TikTok creator in just 12 days, qualified for the Creator Pilot Program, and started monetizing with TikTok Shop using existing camera-roll content, smart reposting, and product tagging. She also reveals some under-the-radar AI tools like Higgsfield and Arcads that can help sellers generate before-and-after content, influencer-style videos, and scalable creatives without always needing the physical product on hand. Carrie closes with one more key reminder for Amazon sellers: start paying attention to Rufus and optimize your listings around the real questions shoppers are asking, because AI-driven search is already changing how people discover products on Amazon.   In episode 477 of the AM/PM Podcast, Bradley, Carrie, and Shivali discuss: 00:00 – Bradley kicks off the new era of the AM/PM & Serious Sellers Podcasts 02:03 – Fast & Furious moment: an Amazon shipment gets hijacked 03:20 – How the thieves impersonated the carrier and held the load for ransom 05:14 – $70K in losses and what sellers MUST know about subcontracted carriers 07:48 – Turning a product failure into a digital-product-first business model 15:50 – Carrie moves manufacturing from China to Turkey - costs vs. tariffs 16:55 – Major announcement: Weekly Buzz moves to the AM/PM Podcast 22:10 – How Shivali became a TikTok Creator in 12 days &  27:45 – Carrie’s Amazon PPC agency disaster & how she rebuilt with Helium 10 34:05 – AI tools sellers haven’t heard of 36:45 – Optimizing Amazon listings for Rufus AI 37:55 – The future format of both podcasts moving forward  

Guillermo Puyol, co-founder and former CTO of Helium 10, joins Kevin King for a heartfelt farewell as host. They dive into the intriguing origins of Helium 10, from gaming to Amazon selling, and share wild anecdotes, including closet podcasting and unexpected business growth. Guillermo reveals insights on the creation of early tools like Scribbles and the evolution into Helium 10 Elite. Reflecting on their emotional journeys, they discuss the challenges post-exit and their return to startups with an AI focus, emphasizing the transformative power of technology.

Let’s dive into Amazon PPC and break down DSP, AMC, wasted ad spend, and smarter campaign strategies. Learn how top brands win with data-driven advertising.   Can you afford to miss out on the secrets behind optimizing Amazon PPC, AMC, and DSP? Brent Zahradnik, a seasoned expert in Amazon advertising, brings his wealth of experience to our show, uncovering the complexities of Amazon advertising. Brent’s journey from the US to France adds a unique perspective to the conversation as he shares how balancing work across time zones and immersing in French culture has enriched his professional insights.   Amazon advertising has evolved dramatically from its early days of low cost-per-click rates and basic ad options. This episode unpacks the intricate landscape that demands expert management today, highlighting how advanced targeting and analytics have transformed strategy requirements. Brent shares poignant anecdotes of Amazon's initial ad experiments, while navigating the challenges that both advertisers and clients face in maintaining a competitive edge in this pay-to-play ecosystem.   The potential impact of AI on Amazon advertising agencies is another compelling topic Brent tackles, discussing how tools like Amazon Marketing Cloud (AMC) and Demand Side Platform (DSP) can revolutionize efficiency. With insights into selecting the right agency and the importance of comprehensive service packages, Brent guides listeners through optimizing their Amazon ad strategy. Whether you're a brand new to the platform or a seasoned seller, this episode promises actionable insights and the guidance needed to thrive in today's Amazon marketplace.   In episode 47 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Brent discuss: 00:00 - Exploring Amazon PPC With Brent Zahradnik 06:39 - Rise of Amazon Advertising Complexity 09:53 - Evolution of Amazon Advertising 12:44 - Agency vs Software in Amazon Sales 16:25 - AI in Amazon Advertising and Integration 23:00 - Impact of Rufus and COSMO in Amazon Advertising 26:08 - Amazon PPC Strategy and Data Analysis  30:55 - Keyword Strategy for Amazon Ranking 32:00 - Amazon DSP and Advertising Efficiency 35:07 - Modern Brand Building With Amazon DSP 38:16 - Combining Data Sets for Targeted Ads 41:26 - Customer Funnel Strategy for Conquesting 42:54 - Optimizing Amazon PPC and DSP Investments 47:59 - How Brands Can Utilize Amazon DSP 49:55 - Selecting an Amazon Advertising Agency 56:19 - Automated Conversion Campaigns in DSP 58:21 - Human Touch in Modern Advertising

In this episode, our guest breaks down how he turned a small family brand into a thriving media empire through newsletters, podcasts, AI tools, and TikTok Shop strategies that build real e-commerce influence.   Join us for an engaging conversation on the AM/PM podcast as we explore the world of podcasts and newsletters with Kelsey Farrar, a seasoned expert and son of industry veteran Norm Farrar. Kelsey shares his unique insights into the evolution of newsletters and how they have become indispensable resources in the e-commerce industry. Learn how valuable content can transform newsletters from simple marketing tools into must-read resources that truly engage and inform subscribers. Discover how Kelsey was inspired by my presentation in Puerto Rico to revamp the Lunch with Norm newsletter, enhancing its value and engagement.   Listen in as we discuss the power of newsletters as a tool for building brand engagement. We highlight the importance of tailoring content to resonate with audiences and strategies like audience segmentation and interactive elements. The conversation touches on the importance of analyzing metrics to understand audience preferences, using current topics like TikTok shop bans to boost engagement. Kelsey also shares his journey from teaching English in Korea to collaborating with his dad on his personal brand during the COVID-19 pandemic, gaining valuable social media and branding insights.   Finally, we navigate the dynamics of hosting a podcast with nearly 700 episodes and the lessons learned from interacting with hundreds of guests. Discover the significance of having robust systems and processes in place to ensure business sustainability while avoiding the distractions of fleeting industry trends. We also explore the intricacies of building an online presence through platforms like Amazon affiliates and TikTok, highlighting the patience and persistence required for content creation. The episode concludes with reflections on the contrasting dynamics between Lunch with Norm and Marketing Misfits podcasts, emphasizing the importance of personal branding and networking in the digital landscape.   In episode 474 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Kelsey discuss: 07:56 - Consistent, Light Newsletter With Industry Insights 11:55 - Building Brand Engagement Through Newsletters 15:36 - Family's Transition During COVID Shutdown 21:45 - Business Success on Podcasts and Social Media 24:20 - Navigating Business Trends and Growth 30:26 - Social Media Influence and Product Experimentation 32:31 - Navigating TikTok Shop Expectations 39:35 - TikTok Brand Management and Affiliate Outreach 43:31 - Podcast Dynamics and E-Commerce Trends 45:13 - Comparing Podcast Formats and Audience Engagement 48:17 - Podcast Format Pros and Cons 51:01 - E-Commerce Industry and AI Advancements

In this episode, discover how to optimize your Amazon listings this holiday season, and our guest shares her FILTER framework and why the human touch still beats AI in driving conversions.   Unlock the secrets of e-commerce success this holiday season by mastering the art of Amazon listing optimization with Karyn Thomas, our seasoned guest with a knack for turning Amazon product pages into sales powerhouses. Journey through her inspiring transition from a marketing professional to a listing optimization guru, and discover the innovative FILTR framework that transforms ordinary product listings into irresistible offers. This episode offers a ton of strategies and insights that have propelled Karyn to the forefront of the e-commerce world, setting up your listings for stellar conversion rates and category rankings.   Dive deep into the FILTER framework, where each element, plays a pivotal role in capturing the attention and hearts of customers. Harness the power of "why" from Simon Sinek’s philosophy to engage shoppers on an emotional level, and learn practical ways to apply these concepts to your listings. Karyn also unveils the critical importance of visuals in product listings, exploring the use of advanced AI tools to enhance image analysis and storytelling that resonates with your target demographic.   As the digital landscape evolves, so must your strategies. Explore the latest trends in video content and AI integration for Amazon and beyond. Karyn discusses the growing potential of platforms like TikTok Shop and shares insights on maintaining a human touch amidst technological advancements. This conversation is packed with actionable tips to optimize your listings continuously, ensuring they remain competitive and compelling. Join us and embrace the exciting future of e-commerce with confidence and creativity.   In episode 473 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Karyn discuss: 00:00 - Listing Optimization Strategies for Amazon Sales 10:08 - Key Factors in Amazon Sales Success 11:28 - Listing Optimization Framework 18:17 - The Power of Storytelling in Sales 22:21 - Optimizing Amazon Listings With Images 29:01 - Amazon Listing Optimization Strategies 32:09 - Video Creation for Advertising and Listings 35:30 - Differentiating Product Positioning for Listings 41:20 - Effective Amazon Listing Design Strategies 45:26 - Importance of Design in Amazon Sales 47:37 - Human Touch in E-Commerce 55:50 - Human Touch in AI Marketing

Thinking about going global? Learn how to expand from the US to the UK and the EU the smart way. We break down VAT, EPR, PAN-EU, cash flow, and compliance so international growth feels easy.   What if expanding your e-commerce business globally was simpler than you ever imagined? Join us as we welcome Demet Kale from Vatai, who is here to dismantle the daunting myths surrounding international expansion and VAT compliance. Together, we demystify the processes that often hold sellers back from seizing the lucrative opportunities European markets have to offer. Demet offers her expert insights into how a unified compliance solution can pave a smoother path amidst the growing competition, especially with manufacturers stepping directly into the scene.   Curious about leveraging Amazon’s vast European network for your business? We discuss the hurdles and victories of selling through Amazon in Europe, emphasizing the power of Amazon’s logistics and support systems. Tackling issues like multi-currency cash flow and the importance of VAT registration, we highlight how a strategic partnership can make navigating these waters much easier. Our dialogue underscores the necessity of knowledgeable partners in achieving seamless customs clearance and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles.   Beyond the realm of Amazon, we expand our horizons to explore global e-commerce strategies, including the OSS scheme for platforms like Shopify. Discover how this system simplifies VAT reporting for sellers with a German VAT number and enables them to cater to local VAT rates across EU countries. We also venture into alternative marketplaces like Allegro, CDiscount, and Bol.com, while addressing essential compliance topics such as EORI numbers and Extended Producer Responsibility in Europe. Whether you're a U.S. seller eyeing the European market or vice versa, this episode is packed with strategies to help you build a sustainable global brand.   In episode 472 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Demet discuss: 00:00 - Expanding E-Commerce Globally With VAT 01:48 - Global E-Commerce Compliance Services 12:19 - International Expansion and Cash Flow 16:40 - Expanding Amazon Sales Internationally 20:08 - Navigating VAT and E-Commerce Expansion 26:10 - Amazon Eases VAT Compliance for Sellers 28:02 - E-Commerce Expansion Beyond Amazon 32:07 - Exploring International Marketplaces and Logistics 38:43 - Label Tool and EU Representation Requirements 42:30 - Global E-Commerce Expansion Strategies 43:16 - Common Mistakes in International Expansion 51:12 - Guiding International Expansion With Demet

Learn how today’s guest went from eBay to AI-driven marketing. Discover his secrets to LinkedIn growth, UGC blitz campaigns, trade show ROI, and mastering AEO optimization. Rob Stanley, a trailblazer in the e-commerce realm since the late '90s, shares his unique journey from selling parts for Palm Pilots on eBay to pioneering iPhone repair sales via YouTube. With nearly three decades of experience, Rob uncovers the secrets behind maximizing LinkedIn presence and the power of user-generated content strategies. He also recounts his remarkable transformation from being the "money man" to collaborating with companies challenging giants like Shopify. His stories are not just about past achievements but offer a roadmap for today's e-commerce professionals looking to make a mark in a dynamic industry. Our conversation takes an exciting turn as we explore the captivating world of trade shows and the art of standing out. Rob shares vivid anecdotes on how to create unforgettable trade show experiences, emphasizing the need for creative hooks and interactive booth presentations to capture attendees' attention. Further, we dive into the art of crafting compelling LinkedIn posts that spur engagement, complete with insights on using varied content types and scheduling tools to maintain a vibrant online presence. With Rob's clever strategies, listeners will find themselves equipped with the tools to transform their LinkedIn and trade show tactics into genuine business growth. In the final segment, Rob and Kevin explore the future of e-commerce, with a spotlight on AI optimization tools and emerging trends. We discuss the innovative potential of Super User-Generated Content and the evolution of e-commerce platforms, such as Miva. Rob offers compelling insights into how AI tools are reshaping search engine strategies, ensuring that brands stay visible in an increasingly digital world. From driverless technology to the evolution of sales dynamics, Rob's expert perspective provides a glimpse into the future, urging listeners to stay ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving landscape.  In episode 471 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Rob discuss: 00:00 - E-Commerce Journey With The "Money Man" Rob Stanley 07:51 - Discussion on Trade Shows and Feedback 08:46 - Maximizing Trade Show ROI 14:00 - Standing Out at Trade Shows 18:23 - Maximizing LinkedIn for E-Commerce Success 20:01 - Maximizing LinkedIn Engagement Strategies 24:41 - Promoting Brands and Products on LinkedIn 31:06 - Strategic Super UGC Marketing Blitz 38:11 - E-Commerce Industry Trends and Insights 44:33 - AI Optimization Tools for E-Commerce 48:47 - Chat GPT and AEO Rise 53:40 - Evolution of E-Commerce and AI 55:10 - Social Media Reach Out Tips

In this episode, we discuss how the next two years will redefine Amazon seller success. From AI and data to smarter testing, learn what it takes to stay ahead in the fastest-changing e-commerce era.   Join us on this episode as we explore the journey of Anthony Cofrancesco, a trailblazer in the e-commerce industry. Listen in as Anthony recounts his experiences from founding a conversion optimization agency for Amazon sellers to becoming a prominent speaker and e-commerce expert. He shares valuable insights from his early entrepreneurial days in Asia, where he co-founded a company focused on enhancing Amazon listings through graphics, video, and copywriting services. Discover how living in the Philippines, amidst a vibrant entrepreneurial community, allowed Anthony to significantly grow his business, eventually leading to the acquisition of his agency and his remarkable success with PickFu.   In a fascinating discussion on A/B testing, Anthony reveals how integrating testing into business strategies can drive substantial growth. Hear about his journey with PickFu and how strategic A/B testing helped brands like Thrasio's Angry Orange and Pink Miracle achieve remarkable sales increases. Anthony underscores the importance of moving beyond gut instincts, emphasizing that the initial investment in testing can yield significant long-term benefits. Learn how continual experimentation and rigorous testing can be the keys to success in today's competitive e-commerce landscape.   The conversation also explores the future of e-commerce, highlighting the evolving role of AI in streamlining business execution for Amazon sellers. Anthony discusses the challenges faced by sellers in navigating the overwhelming amount of information and how AI can revolutionize this space, enabling more efficient expansion across platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and retail. As the market becomes increasingly complex, Anthony stresses the need for sellers to adopt sophisticated systems and processes to maintain a competitive edge. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic nature of e-commerce and the pivotal role of execution in achieving business success.   In episode 470 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Anthony discuss: 00:00 - From Graphics to Data 02:07 - Business Partnership in the Philippines  08:39 - A/B Testing Discoveries and Results 17:11 - Using PickFu for Faster Market Research 20:16 - Optimizing Image Order for Conversions 22:18 - The Changing Landscape of Amazon Selling 27:19 - Maximizing Execution for Business Growth 35:46 - Future of Amazon Business Analytics, Execution, and Education 44:46 - Future of Consumer Spending and AI

Norm Farrar returns to reveal how sellers win in 2025: AI + AEO, authority building, influencer do’s/don’ts, email that prints money, and why events & cigars power real networking.   Join us for an engaging discussion as we welcome back Norm Farrar, the first-ever repeat guest on the AM/PM podcast under Kevin King. Norm shares his fascinating journey into the world of influencer marketing, shedding light on the hard work and strategic workflows that come with it. He opens up about the challenges he faced in tracking commissions and the newfound respect he gained for content creators. We also explore how Norm's innovative use of technology, like Zapier, helped streamline the process of creating engaging content, from scripting to filming, providing valuable insights for aspiring influencers and marketers alike.   As the conversation unfolds, we dive into the cultural significance of cigar smoking as a communal activity. Norm shares personal experiences from cigar lounges, highlighting how they serve as unique environments for stress relief, networking, and building friendships across diverse backgrounds. We reflect on numerous occasions where cigars have facilitated connections at various events, including Amazon gatherings, fostering an inclusive "brotherhood" or "sisterhood" for all participants. Upcoming events, such as the one planned in Tampa, are mentioned as further opportunities to strengthen these connections. Additionally, the episode explores the evolving landscape of e-commerce and retail, emphasizing the importance of being an early adopter and maintaining a strong omni-channel presence. We discuss the opportunities beyond Amazon, including platforms like Walmart and TikTok shops, and the critical role of brand perception and packaging when transitioning to retail. Listen in as we highlight the enduring power of email marketing, debunking myths about its obsolescence and showcasing the strategic use of AI to enhance targeting and personalization. Whether you're an aspiring influencer, an e-commerce professional, or simply curious about the future of marketing, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. In episode 469 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Norm discuss: 00:00 - Influencer Marketing and AI Workflow 08:35 - Product Promotion Success Story 12:16 - The Bonding Power of Cigars 16:46 - Amazon Networking Events and Bondings 21:10 - Networking Events and Industry Education 24:17 - Networking and Education in Amazon 30:19 - Utilizing Customer Questions for Marketing 32:22 - The Future of E-Commerce and Retail 40:35 - Maximizing Email Marketing Impact 41:42 - The Power of Email Newsletters 48:03 - Email Marketing and AI Optimization 50:46 - Generational Shift in Consumer Preferences 53:43 - Marketing Misfits Podcast