AM/PM Podcast

Rafay MH, a TikTok marketing expert and founder of Theuptik.com, dives into the dynamic world of TikTok and its implications for Amazon sellers. He discusses three potential futures for TikTok and shares his journey from Australia to Dubai. The conversation highlights TikTok's innovative algorithm that democratizes content creation and its raw style that drives engagement. Rafay emphasizes building meaningful relationships with TikTok creators and employing effective content strategies to boost brand visibility and sales in the evolving digital landscape.

Shan Shan Fu, a former tech professional turned e-commerce entrepreneur, shares her inspiring journey from selling PPE to launching a clothing line on Amazon. She dives into navigating high return rates and tariffs, offering innovative strategies for profitability in tough markets. The discussion touches on the freedom of remote work while living in enchanting places like Medellin, Colombia, and the benefits of community in Austin's vibrant entrepreneurial scene. Shan Shan also highlights the role of platforms like YouTube in her self-education journey within the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape.

Julie Napolitano, a passionate pet entrepreneur, discusses her unique journey in the pet industry with insights into innovative financing and the intricacies of building her dog brand, Pup Wax. She shares her experiences transitioning from corporate life to direct-to-consumer sales, emphasizing the importance of networking at industry events like the 7-Figure Seller Summit in Japan. Julie also addresses the challenges of product compliance and retail strategies while highlighting the significance of trust and relationships in marketing to pet owners.

Join us in this episode as we sit down with a seasoned patent IP lawyer, who shares his knowledge on protecting Amazon sellers from counterfeiters and intellectual property violators. Stan Ference, a seasoned patent IP lawyer with a fascinating transition from electrical engineering, joins us to share his expertise on protecting e-commerce sellers, especially those navigating the complexities of Amazon. Stan sheds light on the often-misunderstood responsibility of brand owners versus Amazon in policing counterfeit products. Since 2018, he's witnessed significant shifts in the e-commerce landscape, revealing the evolving challenges and highlighting the urgency for sellers to take the reins in safeguarding their intellectual property. Engage with Stan’s personal anecdotes and insights, as he uncovers critical strategies for those aiming to protect their brands in a bustling global market.   Throughout the episode, we explore the nuanced intricacies of intellectual property rights, focusing on trademarks, patents, and copyrights. Stan offers a historical perspective on trademarks, demystifying the distinctions between design and utility patents, and their vital roles in protecting innovations. He provides practical advice on overcoming hurdles faced by inventors on platforms like Amazon and crowdfunding sites, where knockoffs are rampant. From early publication requests to expedited applications, Stan emphasizes the importance of timely filings to shield imagery and product listings from unauthorized use, ensuring entrepreneurs can safeguard their creative assets effectively.   Our discussion extends into the global realm of IP protection, dissecting how differing international trademark rules can impact businesses. Stan shares the unique challenges posed by China's "first to file" approach, alongside Amazon's evolving trademark processes and the significance of its transparency program in combating counterfeiters. Through captivating case studies and stories, Stan highlights the profound consequences of intellectual property disputes, from jeopardized business deals to the unauthorized sale of Simpsons-themed merchandise. This episode is a vital resource for Amazon sellers and digital creators striving to protect their intellectual property rights and secure their businesses’ futures against counterfeit threats. In episode 424 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Stan discuss: 00:00 - IP Protection for Sellers on Amazon 04:57 - Amazon's Accountability for Intellectual Property 10:24 - Enforcing Brand Rights on Amazon 13:37 - Intellectual Property Overview 15:09 - Intellectual Property Strategies for Amazon Sellers 18:05 - Water Balloon Invention Story 23:41 - Global Trademark Protection Overview 24:15 - Amazon Sellers IP Protection Strategies 27:27 - Amazon Transparency Program and Trademark Registration 31:34 - Trademark Renewal Requirements and Deadlines 40:01 - Global IP Protection and Branding Strategies 46:30 - Protecting Your Brand From Knockoffs 57:10 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

Carrie Miller, an expert in e-commerce and a key player at Helium 10, shares her journey from revitalizing a struggling skateboard brand to mastering Amazon strategies. She emphasizes the importance of community and the entrepreneurial spirit sparked by her father's influence. The conversation dives into emerging trends in the skateboarding industry and the challenges of traditional retail amidst electric board innovations. Carrie also discusses effective online marketing tactics and the vital role of networking in today's e-commerce landscape.

In this episode, learn how to choose the right Amazon agency! This episode reveals tips on agency selection, hiring practices, and what to expect from a high-quality agency. Join Kevin as he welcomes Pasha Knish to explore the vibrant world of Amazon agencies. Pasha, an experienced agency leader, shares his journey from being an Amazon seller to managing a full-service agency. We discuss the nuances of agency operations, including effective communication with Amazon sellers and the importance of authenticity in business relationships. Pasha provides valuable insights on choosing the right agency and hiring the right team members, all while highlighting the rewarding experience of hosting a podcast and gaining inspiration from seasoned service providers.   Discover the evolving landscape of Amazon agencies as we examine industry changes since 2011, including the rise of software tools that have transformed agency operations. We discuss the diverse motivations behind starting an agency, from genuine expertise to opportunistic ventures, and the current challenges of demonstrating expertise and reliability to clients. Emphasizing data-driven insights, we explore the necessity of building trust and ensuring effective service delivery in a competitive environment, and we share real-life examples of agency owners navigating these challenges.   Lastly, we discuss strategies for agency growth, the trend of agency roll-ups, and exit strategies for agency owners. Learn about the creative deal structures that allow aggregators to acquire agencies without upfront costs and the benefits of partnering with an agency. We also highlight the importance of building quality agencies for long-term success, maintaining a strong company culture, and balancing client relationships. For those interested in expanding their knowledge, we recommend checking out Pasha's podcast, "The Agency Operator," and invite you to sign up for Kevin’s upcoming Billion Dollar Seller Newsletter webinar for more insights. In episode 422 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Pasha discuss: 00:00 - Inside the Amazon Agency World 03:56 - Podcasts Inspire Action and Growth 06:42 - Long-Term ROI and Building Relationships 12:30 - Navigating the Amazon Agency Landscape 16:07 - Challenges of Selling on Amazon Agencies 20:11 - Quality and Management of Virtual Assistants 22:23 - Building Quality Agencies for Long-Term Success 28:42 - Agency Growth and Exit Strategies 32:31 - Fully Built Out System for Success 38:09 - Advantages of Agency Business Model 40:39 - Acquiring and Growing Amazon Agencies 42:29 - Opportunities and Challenges in Agency Acquisitions 46:29 - Building Trust in Agency Success 48:18 - Agency Growth Strategies and Optimization 53:28 - Exploring Diverse Business Perspectives 54:20 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Jennifer Young, an expert in managing a $20 million Amazon toy business, shares her incredible journey in the toy industry. She discusses the challenges of sustaining such a business during peak seasons and the importance of strategic partnerships in sourcing products. Jennifer dives into multi-channel sales strategies and the significance of maintaining profit margins amidst rising costs. Highlighting her diverse team's cultural dynamics, she reveals how effective leadership and adaptability are key to thriving in a competitive market.

Brian Johnson, co-founder of DeepM and expert in Amazon selling, shares valuable insights from nearly a decade in the field. He discusses innovative strategies for enhancing organic search ranking and optimizing PPC costs. Johnson reflects on the role of mastermind groups in personal growth and reveals his unconventional journey into e-commerce. They delve into the complexities of Amazon's A9 algorithm, emphasizing data-driven approaches to improve visibility and sales. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in search, hinting at a shift towards more automation.

Daniela Bolzmann, an e-commerce listing expert and founder of Mindful Goods, shares her journey from tech to Amazon optimization. She reveals powerful strategies for boosting conversions through A+ content and visual storytelling. The conversation highlights the role of consistent branding and data-driven insights in e-commerce, along with the importance of split testing and adapting to trends. Daniela also emphasizes the impact of engaging video content and user-generated material in enhancing Amazon listings. Tune in for her innovative tips on captivating consumers!

Imagine tapping into a market that has the potential to skyrocket your e-commerce business. What if Latin America could be the next big frontier for growth? Join us as Christie Rugh and AJ Hernandez from SkyPostal bring their expertise to the table, offering a roadmap for businesses looking to thrive in this promising region. With projections indicating a leap from $195 billion to $270 billion by 2028, they highlight how Sky Postal's logistics solutions provide a cost-effective and reliable alternative to expensive express carriers and challenging postal services, making it easier for businesses to venture into Latin America.   From navigating Brazil's protective economic policies to capitalizing on the rising middle class across Argentina and Colombia, we cover the strategies you need to succeed. Our conversation takes a closer look at how mobile phones are transforming shopping habits and how financial landscapes are evolving with the increased use of installment payments. Learn about the pivotal role platforms like Mercado Libre and Amazon play in facilitating cross-border sales, with Sky Postal ensuring timely deliveries and localized support to bridge language and currency barriers.   For those contemplating expansion, the Latin American market is not only less competitive but also offers lucrative opportunities like cheaper ad buys. Whether you're a seasoned seller or facing challenges in the U.S. market, this episode equips you with actionable insights and strategies to enhance your brand's presence and sales. Plus, listen to a personal tale of customs woes that underlines the importance of understanding international trade nuances. Don't miss out on uncovering the untapped potential of Latin America with SkyPostal as your ally.   In episode 418 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin, Christie, and AJ discuss: 00:00 - Expand Your E-Commerce Business to Latin America  01:33 - Latin America E-Commerce Logistics Solutions  06:05 - Expanding Latin America Market Reach  11:08 - Expanding Into Emerging Latin American Markets 13:05 - Navigating Trade in Latin America 16:38 - Options for International E-Commerce Expansion  20:49 - International Shipping Rates and Domestic Services 24:21 - Liquidation of Super Bowl Merchandise 25:49 - Expanding to Latin America Logistics Opportunities 27:54 - Cross-Border Marketing Strategies 32:57 - Cost-Saving Fulfillment From Mexico to US 35:27 - Latin America Logistics With SkyPostal 40:44 - International Shipping on Amazon Prime 46:45 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom