AM/PM Podcast
Kevin King
Welcome to the AM/PM Podcast hosted by Kevin King! Where we explore opportunities in E-commerce, we dream big, and we discover what’s working right now. This is the podcast where money never sleeps! Join Kevin as he sits down with top experts and sellers to talk about all things E-commerce and entrepreneurship. The things discussed in this ‘must listen’ podcast you won’t find anywhere else. New episodes are released every Thursday. Subscribe today.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 21, 2023 • 55min
#374 - Using Affiliate Marketing as a Secret Weapon with David Katz
Unleash your full potential and be the Amazon seller who stays ahead of the curve. This podcast episode is your ticket to gaining an edge in the competitive world of Amazon selling and affiliate marketing. Our guest, the accomplished David Katz, shares his unique insights on the latest strategies for launching products on Amazon, especially now that Search, Find, Buy is no longer available. David's firsthand experiences as a consultant for a transitioning beauty brand and his ability to adapt to ever-changing market dynamics will guide you in mastering the art of Amazon selling.
We also explore the exciting world of affiliate marketing, the structure of affiliate programs, and their benefits for brands and influencers. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at an expansive network of over 500 affiliates that includes influencers, media publishers, and deal sites, and how you can tap into this network. We discuss everything from deep linking to affiliate link integration and commission stacking, helping you understand the technical aspects of Amazon's affiliate marketing.
Finally, we unpack the world of influencer marketing, affiliate programs, and the role of deal sites in boosting product exposure. David's fascinating insights into commission-based payments and his own experiences with earning through influencer work promise to enrich your understanding of the perks and challenges of this model. We wrap it all up by underlining the importance of networking and building relationships in this industry and sharing details about the Billion Dollar Seller Summit and newsletter. This episode is a goldmine of practical tips and information, designed to prepare you for success in e-commerce and affiliate marketing. Don’t miss it!
In episode 374 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Nate discuss:
00:00 - Growth Strategies and Networking in E-Commerce
01:28 - Amazon Accelerates Show and Networking Experience
07:38 - Qualifications and Strategies for Amazon Sellers
08:26 - Salary Based on Performance and Growth
15:14 - Affiliate Marketing for Amazon Sellers
18:37 - Affiliate Program Structure and Network Expansion
23:59 - Deal Sites as Top Affiliate Niche
35:09 - Commission Safeguards and Live Links
39:40 - Understanding Commission-Based Influencer Marketing
40:24 - Affiliates' Role in Product Selection
50:01 - Trends in Furniture and Beauty Purchases
52:16 - Verifying Identity on LinkedIn and Business Strategies
54:10 - Kevin's Words Of Wisdom For The Week

Dec 14, 2023 • 56min
#373 - Keith O’Brien on the Intersecting Worlds of Online Selling and Pickleball
When we talk about Amazon selling and pickleball, there's no one more seasoned than our guest, Keith O'Brien. As a veteran in the game, Keith takes us on a journey from the golden days of easy product ranking to the end of the service, I Love to Review, due to the shift in Amazon policies. He shares his insights on the evolving world of Amazon agencies, emphasizing the importance of both solo consultants and agencies in shaping the marketplace.
Managing large scale agencies, retaining good staff, and the rise of aggregators driving up the price of talent - these are just a few of the challenges we explore. And then there's the role of AI in e-commerce, which, as we find out, is helpful in rule setting and bid management, but maybe not so much for creative tasks. As a curveball, Keith, a pickleball enthusiast, talks about the social aspect of the sport and the reasons for its global appeal.
We end our discussion with tips on what to look for when hiring an agency for Amazon listings and PPC management. A strong relationship with the agency is key, as is their track record of success and the quality of their work. Whether you're an e-commerce seller, a pickleball player, or a curious listener, join us for this insightful conversation!
In episode 374 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Keith discuss:
00:06 - Amazon's Early Days With Keith
15:32 - The Rise of Amazon Service Providers
26:55 - Automation and AI's Impact on Jobs
30:34 - AI's Role in Writing Listings
37:06 - The End Game for Agency Businesses
43:31 - Opportunities in the World of Pickleball
46:13 - Enjoying a New Sport Quickly
51:07 - Hiring an Agency for Amazon Listing
53:49 - Learning Pickleball and Networking on LinkedIn

Dec 7, 2023 • 1h 6min
#372 - Building Real Brands with Amy Wees: Harnessing AI in Product Development
Join us for an insightful discussion with our esteemed guest, Amy Wees, who shares her wealth of knowledge gleaned from multiple years of successful selling on Amazon. Together, we explore the lifecycle of a product and discuss the secret sauce to Amy's sustained success. Amy also sheds light on how AI has become a game-changer in product development and how it's possible to host successful events in the Amazon-selling community. You're in for a treat, as this episode is chock-full of actionable insights for sellers looking to level up their game.
Don't miss out as we venture further into the power of AI in revolutionizing product development. Listen in as Amy shares her personal experience in utilizing AI tools like Chat GPT and Midjourney for tasks such as optimizing listings, reviewing products, and even logo and website design. In a world that's increasingly dependent on AI, we tackle the role of creativity and how to effectively blend it with AI for image generation, offering valuable tips for those struggling with the creative process.
As we round off, we dive into market research and its pivotal role in product design validation. You'll learn how we use Chat GPT to generate ideas for product packaging, drawing inspiration from iconic brands. Amy shares how market research and audience surveys are crucial in validating product ideas, making them more competitive in the market. With a focus on the future, we explore the upcoming image-to-image feature of Chat GPT, the potential of AI in enhancing e-commerce content, and how rapid advancements in technology will revolutionize various industries. So, tune in for an exciting journey into the future of selling on Amazon, AI, and much more.
In episode 372 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Amy discuss:
00:00 - Maintaining a Successful Product on Amazon
02:08 - Podcast Origin and Influence
07:14 - Sourcing Plastic Injection Molded Products
13:17 - Utility Patented Product's Long-Term Success
16:04 - Cost Comparison of Return Services
24:46 - Using AI to Revolutionize Product Development
27:58 - Impressive Logo and Website Designs
33:44 - Creativity and Starting With AI
36:32 - Start Learning Entrepreneurship and Photography
41:01 - Market Research and Product Design Validation
43:40 - Customer Perception and Product Selection
47:21 - AI's Impact on Innovation and Creativity
55:35 - Future of E-Commerce, AI, and Travel
1:05:14 - This Week's Words Of Wisdom From Kevin

Nov 30, 2023 • 60min
#371 - Indian E-Commerce Sourcing Opportunities with Lokesh Parashar
Ever wonder why India is emerging as the new frontier in e-commerce and Amazon product sourcing? We welcomed seasoned sourcing expert, Lokesh Parashar, to shed light on this trend. Lokesh, with his 30 years of experience, unraveled the vast opportunities, potential returns, and occasional hurdles when sourcing from India. One key takeaway from Lokesh was the value of investing not only in the product but also in the community by actively participating in events and fostering relationships within the e-commerce sphere.
Taking a closer look at the sourcing landscape, he shares his experience on how he made a remarkable transition from factory owner to supplying giants like Walmart. The challenges confronted after the 9/11 tragedy, his move to Canada and subsequent return to India due to his wife's medical condition, and his eventual venture into sourcing for small businesses added a deeply personal touch to his fascinating journey. His takeaway was clear: opening his own US-based company makes financial transactions smoother and can even open doors to becoming one of the largest consulting firms connecting Indian factories and the US.
We couldn't leave the topic of sourcing without comparing India and China. Factors like pricing, quality, business support, and even labor costs were laid on the table. We discovered that while China has an edge in infrastructure and logistics, India isn’t far behind catching up. We also underlined the importance of building personal relationships with factory owners and taking the time to visit these countries. Finally, an engaging discussion about the importance of creating a federation for sourcing agents in India and how their unique program lets Amazon FBA business owners get an Indian sourcing trip with just $999 all-in. Come join us on this journey, and who knows, you might just uncover your next big business opportunity.
In episode 371 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Lokesh discuss:
00:00 - Amazon Product Sourcing Opportunities in India
00:22 - Manufacturing Benefits in India
07:13 - Career Transition Into Exporting and Manufacturing
09:57 - Sourcing and Exporting in India
12:13 - Relocating to Canada, Seeking Medical Options
16:08 - Comparing Sourcing in China and India
22:56 - India's Innovative Mixed Material Products
23:09 - Importance of Visiting India and China
26:12 - Chinese Factories in Other Countries
31:25 - Affordable Ecom Seller Trip to India
33:15 - Federation of Buying Agents, Trade Shows
47:24 - No Catch in This Great Offer
54:06 - Advantages of Expanding to India
58:24 - This Week's Words Of Wisdom From Kevin

Nov 23, 2023 • 58min
#370 - Cracking the Code of Effective Branding with Frankie Thorogood
What if there was a secret formula to building successful Amazon brands, and you had the opportunity to learn from a seasoned brand strategist? Buckle up because today on the AMPM Podcast, we have a real treat for you. We're thrilled to have London-based branding expert, Frankie Thorogood, share his exceptional insights into the intricate world of E-commerce branding and marketing.
From the initial spark of passion for advertising to becoming a successful brand owner, Frankie's journey is nothing short of inspiring. We chat about his first product, a snood, and how he maneuvered its negative perception to his advantage, a classic case of turning lemons into lemonade. We also share our experiences with online selling, particularly sportswear and compression wear, discussing the unique challenges and breakthroughs that marked our journey. We even get to dissect the success story of his UK-based sportswear brand, discussing the challenges of selling on platforms like eBay and Amazon, and the need for finding the right logistics partner.
We conclude by walking you through the maze of customer feedback and its critical role in shaping a brand. We underline the importance of human interaction in understanding customer needs, a nuance often overshadowed by focus groups and AI testing. Shifting gears to marketing strategies, we share our experiences with Amazon, discussing pricing strategies and the need for understanding the buyer's perspective. All this and much more in our insightful session with Frankie Thorogood. So, tune in and gear up to dive into the fascinating world of E-commerce product branding and marketing.
In episode 370 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Frankie discuss:
00:00 - Branding and Marketing Strategies for Success
01:58 - Bookstore Trips and Changing Reading Habits
07:37 - Analyzing Clever Advertising Campaigns
14:35 - From Retail to Online
16:57 - Selling Sportswear and Compression Wear
23:04 - Building a Successful Brand on Amazon
37:57 - Understanding and Engaging With Customers
44:23 - Marketing Strategies and Branding in E-Commerce
47:44 - Using Simple, Confident Titles on Amazon
53:57 - Passionate Pursuits and Potential Businesses
57:25 - This Week’s Words Of Wisdom From Kevin King

Nov 16, 2023 • 57min
#369 - The World of AI for E-commerce with Jo Lambadjieva
Join us as we engage in a riveting discussion with Jo Lambadjieva, who shares valuable insights and provides a deeper understanding of the importance of strategic thinking in marketing. Her journey from a background in finance to becoming a digital marketing professional in many industries, including the Amazon space, makes for an intriguing listen.
As the conversation progresses, we explore the world of Amazon aggregators, brand acquisition, and management. Jo enlightens us about her experiences in due diligence, onboarding new brands, and the hurdles encountered. We discuss the significance of forecasting and financials in enhancing performance and profitability. Furthermore, we talk about the best practices for Amazon sellers to track their data, improve cash flow, and consider diversification.
In the latter part of our discussion, we dive into the realm of AI for Amazon sellers. We dissect the transition from manual processes to automated ones using AI tools and software, the benefits of utilizing customer data, and the current state of the AI landscape. We touch on the impact of AI technology and its potential in the Amazon selling space, and Jo offers expert advice on AI-based e-commerce strategies and the major changes Amazon sellers should watch out for. Tune in to this insightful episode and elevate your understanding of the world of AI for e-commerce.
07:39 - Exploring E-Commerce Opportunities
13:05 - Challenges of Finding Experienced Employees
15:28 - Challenges of Bringing on New Brands
26:10 - AI E-Commerce Consultancy for Amazon Sellers
33:42 - GPT Chat vs Cloud
40:12 - AI Revolutionizes Amazon Seller System
44:00 - Creating an AI Newsletter for E-Commerce
47:16 - Providing Value in AI Content
52:31 - The Impact of AI on Services
55:12 - eCommerce and AI in a Changing Landscape
56:00 - This Week's Words Of Wisdom From Kevin

Nov 9, 2023 • 1h 2min
#368 - Izabella Ritz: A Russian Entrepreneur’s Pursuit of the American Dream
Ever dreamt of building an empire from a humble start? Our fascinating guest, Izabella Ritz, proves it's entirely possible. With her compelling journey from Russia to the US, Izabella has scaled the heights of entrepreneurship, starting from selling her interior design studio thrice due to earning restrictions in Russia and teaching herself English, to becoming a successful Amazon seller in the US.
Izabella's story is one of grit, resilience, and a relentless entrepreneurial spirit. She shares her learning curve in product development, business expansion, and making the most out of networking opportunities. Her unique insights into managing a family business, with her daughter and ex-Marine husband actively involved, and her commitment to fostering a community of Russian entrepreneurs, highlight the essence of her success. Her experience in navigating the challenges of settling as an immigrant and pursuing the American dream while acknowledging the hurdles adds another layer to her unique narrative.
To top it off, Izabella gives a glimpse into her strategic investment in events and masterminds to stay competitive and her innovative venture into TikTok. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the opportunities available in the US compared to countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Mexico, providing an enlightening new perspective on the American dream. With Izabella's inspiring journey, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit.
In episode 368 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Izabella discuss:
02:26 - Russian Entrepreneur's Journey to Success
05:09 - Entrepreneurship Challenges in Russia
09:52 - Navigating Immigrant Cultural and Economic Differences
15:46 - Success in Selling Products on Amazon
19:58 - Building Successful Russian Entrepreneurship Communities
28:32 - The Transition to English-Speaking Community
31:37 - Surprising Talent
35:38 - Amazon Selling for Service Providers 105 Seconds
43:17 - Potential Changes to Amazon's Review System
51:25 - Exploring Business Strategies and Self-Improvement
56:15 - Opportunities and Challenges of Immigration
1:01:44 - Kevin's Weekly Words Of Wisdom

Nov 2, 2023 • 53min
#367 - Navigating the World of Translations, Languages, and AI with Jana Krekic
Join Kevin King and his guest, Jana Krekic, a language specialist and the founder of YLT Translations, as they engage in a fascinating conversation exploring the importance of translating Amazon listings for different countries. Listen to Jana share her inspiring journey from working in a call center 17 years ago to becoming a language expert and entrepreneur. Discover how she stumbled upon the Amazon industry and used it to generate her first sales, sparking her ambition to venture out on her own.
As we continue, Jana and Kevin tackle the challenges of learning European languages such as Finnish and Icelandic. With these languages lacking international words, we discuss the best strategies for language learning and the crucial role of immersion and conversation with native speakers. We also underline the significance of thinking in the target language to achieve true fluency. We also turn our attention to the limitations of AI in listing and content creation, analyzing its potential in copywriting, translations, and localization.
Moving on, we examine the potential of Open AI in creating more nuanced translations of listings and how this could revolutionize the translation process. We also explore the awakening of some brands to the potential of Amazon's global reach. We also shed light on the challenges of localizing listings when selling on Amazon's international marketplaces and how AI tools can assist in copywriting and translations. So tune in as we navigate the complexities of language, translation, and the power of connection in achieving success.
In episode 367 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jana discuss:
00:06 - Multilingual Specialist From Serbia
08:14 - The Importance of Translations in Branding
17:24 - Translation Process for Multilingual Brand Expansion
20:21 - Translating Cultural Nuances
26:44 - AI Limitations in Translation and Integration
30:23 - Translation Tools in E-Commerce Limitations
34:39 - Challenges of Selling on Amazon
40:09 - Amazon Product Listing Issues in Different Markets
45:04 - Affordable One-Time Investment for Content Optimization
48:51 - Translation and LinkedIn Strategy
52:07 - Kevin's Words Of Wisdom This Week

Oct 26, 2023 • 58min
#366 - Amazon PPC In The Eyes Of A High-Performing Agency with Elizabeth Greene
In this episode, we talk to the Co-Founder of the Amazon ads agency Junglr about practical advice and real-world experiences on Amazon PPC, launching products, and more!
Get ready to unlock secrets to mastering Amazon advertising with our guest, Elizabeth Greene, an Amazon PPC expert, and a successful work-from-home mom. With her unique blend of personal and professional experience, Elizabeth navigates us through the complexities of Amazon PPC, sharing her insights on launching products and understanding the changes of Amazon PPC then and now. Her first-hand tips are sure to equip you with invaluable tools to thrive in this dynamic marketplace.
Plunge right into the challenges of Amazon PPC as we talk about Elizabeth's journey into this industry. We explore the transformation of the Amazon Advertising platform, tackling issues that sellers face including rising costs and adapting to Amazon's updates. Together, we dissect the upcoming changes to broad match and sponsored product ads, and anticipate the potential impacts on keyword targeting and off-platform advertising. If you're looking to understand the complexities of Amazon's advertising world, this episode is a very good listen.
As we conclude, we talk about a thorough understanding of video ad optimization and PPC strategy evaluation. Elizabeth helps us decode the elements of a successful video ad and the value of having the product as the focal point. We also uncover the importance of storytelling through data and a collaborative client relationship when choosing an Amazon ad agency. Wrapping up, we leave you with Elizabeth's wisdom to help you calculate advertising ROI, identify competitive categories, and boost your Amazon business’ success. Prepare to be enthralled, enlightened, and empowered by this episode!
In episode 366 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Elizabeth discuss:
06:56 - Navigating Amazon Advertising and Data Analysis
18:59 - Sponsored Products and Off-Platform Advertising
21:32 - Difference in Targeting and Expanded
25:36 - Effectiveness of Product Targeting on Amazon
29:01 - Product Selection and Relevancy in Launch
34:42 - Determining Benchmarks for Advertising Metrics
45:28 - Amazon Search Query Performance Data Value
51:12 - Clear Product Focus in Sponsored Video Ads
57:11 - LinkedIn Benchmarking and Search Tips
57:44 - This Week’s Words Of Wisdom From Kevin

6 snips
Oct 19, 2023 • 1h 10min
#365 - Pioneering Internet Marketing and AI: A Conversation with Perry Belcher
Join us as we welcome internet marketing titan, Perry Belcher, to the AM/PM Podcast! Listen in as we journey through Perry's remarkable career path - from humble beginnings before turning to digital marketing. Perry’s illustrious career even saw him get a personal call from none other than Jeff Bezos himself, a short story you don’t want to miss!
The conversation continues with Perry reflecting on the rise and fall of his business and partnerships. His journey, marked by selling health supplements to launching a digital marketing business, and finally starting the Driven Mastermind and the War Room, is an insightful one for any entrepreneur. Our chat also covers the importance of joining a mastermind group, the benefits it can bring, and how it can help you gain a broad perspective of different industries.
Lastly, Perry shares fascinating insights about the role of AI in business, specifically in copywriting. From reducing labor costs to crafting compelling headlines and stories, the potential applications of AI are far-reaching. He also discusses misconceptions people have about AI and the opportunities it presents. Tune in for a riveting discussion about the intersection of AI, E-commerce, and internet marketing.
In episode 365 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Perry discuss:
09:22 - Success in Real Estate and Selling
16:45 - Running Successful Events
23:30 - The Value of Networking and Collaboration
29:55 - Selling Event Recordings for Profit
34:19 - Cash Prize Incentives for Speakers
39:00 - Leveraging Email Lists for Business Success
42:06 - Artificial Intelligence And Its Impact On Internet Marketing
53:21 - Other Mindblowing AI Capabilities
57:27 - AI's Role in Various Industries
1:07:38 - Follow Perry on Facebook for Updates
1:09:46 - Kevin’s Words Of Wisdom


