AM/PM Podcast

Unlock the secrets to e-commerce success with Billy Pecor and Luba Ilyasova, two industry veterans who have navigated the complexities of Amazon selling with remarkable prowess. Learn from Billy's inspiring transformation from coaching tennis to managing a $25 million portfolio at Thrasio, where his mastery of data analytics has driven success in an ever-changing landscape. Together with Luba, an expert in branding, discover the critical strategies that differentiate successful big brands from those that struggle on Amazon. Prepare to rethink your approach to digital shelf packaging and market segmentation as our guests share their insights on tackling the unique challenges of the sexual wellness space. With a keen focus on understanding your competitors—big brands, black hat users, or private label sellers—you'll gain practical tips for selecting the right strategies to emulate. Explore the significance of sharp visual differentiation in capturing the fast-paced attention of online shoppers and understand why brand recognition alone can't keep you afloat in the digital marketplace. Finally, grasp the future of e-commerce with a deep dive into Amazon's AI-driven tools like Comprehend and COSMO. Billy and Luba explain how these technologies can boost product relevance, combat manipulation tactics, and enhance your understanding of customer behavior. From innovative packaging strategies employed by Olay to the powerful impact of data-driven decision-making, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make your brand stand out in a fiercely competitive environment. Take advantage of this opportunity to elevate your Amazon-selling game with actionable insights from the experts. In episode 404 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin, Luba, and Billy discuss: 00:00 - E-Commerce Experts Share Insights 05:13 - Transition to E-Commerce Consulting and Operations 11:03 - Success Strategies for E-Commerce Sellers 16:56 - Strategic Shift Towards Amazon Brand Acquisition 19:08 - Digital Shelf Packaging Strategies for E-Commerce 21:59 - Packaging Differentiation in Retail and Online 25:04 - Packaging Strategy for Online Retail 25:36 - Innovative E-Commerce Packaging Strategy 29:00 - Brand Gating and Reselling Strategy 34:28 - Amazon SEO and Product Strategy Observations 37:27 - Amazon AI Improves Product Relevance 41:11 - Amazon Comprehend Discussion and Tutorial 43:34 - Amazon COSMO Strategy Insights 43:49 - Evolving Customer Filters in Mobile Shopping 49:34 - Amazon's Brand-Centric Strategy Shift 52:45 - Maximizing Amazon Sales With Innovative Tactics 53:11 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Ted Repic, the visionary behind Rhino USA, shares an inspiring story of building a family-run outdoor e-commerce empire with his sons Cameron and Dylan. They discuss transforming a passion for the outdoors into a thriving business and the strategic choices that propelled them to success. Ted delves into challenges like inventory management and adapting to social media trends. He emphasizes the importance of branding, authenticity, and creating memorable customer experiences, as well as expanding beyond Amazon to diversify their revenue streams.

Join us for an insightful episode where we chat with Morgan Gist MacDonald, founder of Paper Raven Books. Morgan shares her extensive knowledge of the self-publishing process, helping authors transform their ideas into published works. Whether you're interested in writing children's books, personal stories, or professional guides, Morgan's expertise will guide you through every step. We also touch on our personal experiences, including my own West Texas jail story, which reinforced my entrepreneurial spirit, drawing parallels between the worlds of Amazon sellers, e-commerce, and book publishing.   Explore the ever-evolving landscape of book buying and reading habits, from the nostalgic days of Barnes & Noble to the rise of e-books and audiobooks with Amazon and Kindle. We discuss the resurgence of interest in physical books driven by platforms like TikTok and the growth of indie bookstores alongside Amazon's dominance. Discover how publishing a book can establish authority and credibility, with real-life examples of authors landing substantial consulting gigs through strategic book publishing.   Get inspired by the significance of preserving personal stories and experiences, and learn about the comprehensive process of book creation, from content development to publication and marketing strategies. Morgan and I discuss the financial aspects of indie publishing, highlighting the costs and potential profits, as well as the long-term benefits of building a backlist. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to publish a book and achieve greater success and independence in their literary endeavors. (Timestamps) -  In episode 402 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Morgan discuss: 00:00 - Entrepreneurial Journey Through Publishing 07:18 - Entrepreneurial Journey to Book Editing Company  08:20 - The Impact of Book Publishing 14:00 - Leveraging Books for Client Acquisition 14:55 - Crafting a Purposeful Book 21:19 - Journey of Storytelling and Self-Discovery 23:15 - Curating Stories and Life Lessons 26:53 - Marketing Strategies for Successful Book Sales 32:51 - Importance of Book Marketing and Reviews 37:31 - Book Publishing Phases and Processes 40:19 - Book Publishing Costs and AI Impact 42:40 - Authors Playing the Long Game 48:36 - Publishing Process Overview and Checklist 49:36 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Join Phil Hadfield, a successful entrepreneur who transitioned from the UK to Bali, as he shares his journey of building a million-dollar brand. He discusses the challenges of launching premium products during the pandemic and the importance of unique marketing strategies. Phil reveals how he differentiated his brand with high-quality designs and effective pricing, while expanding successfully into international markets. Discover the power of community, customer feedback, and elite networking events in driving his business growth.

What if understanding your financials could make or break your e-commerce success? Join us as we chat with Jeff Lowenstein, a seasoned fractional CFO, and former aggregator M&A specialist, who reveals why knowing your numbers is the cornerstone of profitability in today's competitive market. We explore how Amazon's fees, which can eat up to 65% of sales, make sophisticated financial planning an absolute necessity. Jeff shares his invaluable insights from corporate finance and e-commerce, emphasizing how accurate financials can attract investors and stave off business failure.   We navigate the intricacies of forecasting and due diligence during acquisitions, touching on our team’s philosophy of maintaining a high close rate as a strategic tool. Jeff dives into the necessity of blending quantitative metrics and qualitative insights, such as market trends and unforeseen variables like fluctuating interest rates and emerging platforms like TikTok Shop. We analyze how detailed financial modeling and robust market analysis can power business valuation and growth, underscoring the importance of adaptability in an ever-evolving landscape.   Finally, we explore the significant role of fractional CFO services in e-commerce, highlighting how they differ from traditional accounting. Jeff explains how a fractional CFO can develop comprehensive forecast models, KPI dashboards, and provide critical financial analyses that propel Amazon businesses toward sustainability. We also discuss the fundamental differences between accrual and cash basis accounting, why cash flow management is crucial, and strategies to enhance your financial health. Don't miss out on these key takeaways that could transform your approach to financial management in your Amazon-selling journey! In episode 400 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jeff discuss: 00:00 - Importance of Knowing Your Numbers 03:21 - Corporate Finance to Fractional CFO 06:52 - Importance of Financial Management in Scaling 08:58 - Costing Mistakes Impacting Profit Margins 15:34 - Forecasting and Finance in Due Diligence 17:40 - Models and Metrics in Aggregators & Business Acquisition 19:44 - Financial Profile and Aggregator Capital 25:28 - Understanding Fractional CFO Services for E-Commerce 36:47 - Cash Flow and Accrual Accounting Insights 39:09 - Navigating Profit and Inventory Management 46:01 - Focus on Profit and Growth Strategy  49:09 - Navigating Financial Risks in E-Commerce 50:00 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Discover expert advice from Lesley Hensell and Joe Zalta on safeguarding your Amazon business, navigating seller support inefficiencies, protecting yourself from malicious tactics, and thriving in the marketplace. Learn about their backgrounds, strategies for Amazon compliance, and practical tips for optimal results.

How do you transition from corporate life to entrepreneurial success while harnessing the power of marketing and social media? Join us as we chat with Michelle Barnum-Smith, a marketing maven who has mastered ManyChat flows in Amazon e-commerce and now thrives on TikTok. Michelle unravels her fascinating journey, sharing actionable insights on leveraging Instagram automation with ManyChat to skyrocket your engagement and conversion rates. If you're an Amazon seller or a social media enthusiast, Michelle’s strategies to tap into Instagram’s algorithm and boost your visibility are pure gold.   Reflecting on her career, she recounts her 12-year stint in corporate marketing with industry giants like Lenovo, IBM, and Comcast. The leap from corporate stability to entrepreneurship was riddled with challenges and learning curves. From founding a consulting business to embracing chatbot marketing in 2017, Michelle discovered a niche within the Amazon seller community that catapulted her to industry prominence. Through candid anecdotes, we unpack the trials and triumphs of leaving the corporate world to build a brand and gain recognition, leading to speaking engagements and a thriving business.   TikTok has revolutionized social commerce, effortlessly blending entertainment and shopping. We dissect why TikTok’s impulse-buying environment outshines Facebook and Instagram, and how it creates a seamless shopping experience. Delving into the nuances of selling on TikTok, we emphasize the importance of collaborating with creators and optimizing product listings. With lower referral fees and innovative features like TikTok Shop, the platform offers uncharted opportunities for sellers. We explore whether it's time to jump on the TikTok bandwagon or adopt a wait-and-see approach, considering potential regulatory challenges. This episode equips you with strategies and insights to navigate TikTok’s commerce landscape effectively.   Also, join the upcoming workshop where Michelle talks about TikTok Shop. To register, go to www.ttshopsellers.com   In episode 398 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Michelle discuss: 00:00 - Exploring E-Commerce Marketing Trends 07:10 - Utilizing Instagram for Marketing Automation 08:40 - Corporate Career to Amazon Marketing 10:45 - Corporate Career to Entrepreneurial Mother 17:39 - Exploring Marketing Strategies for Amazon 19:12 - Building Brands Through Marketing Strategies 31:39 - TikTok's Success in Social Commerce 37:22 - Effectiveness of TikTok for Sales 41:16 - The Future of TikTok Commerce 43:07 - Navigating TikTok's Creator and Affiliate Center 48:19 - Leveraging TikTok for Business Success 53:51 - Optimizing Listings and Ads on TikTok 55:14 - Product Shop Ad Strategy for TikTok  1:05:40 - Kevin King’s Words Of Wisdom

Gracey Ryback, the Amazon and TikTok influencer phenomenon with over 1.3 million TikTok followers, joins us for a compelling conversation on the AM/PM Podcast. Gracey shares her inspiring journey from a career in sales to becoming a full-time content creator in the e-commerce space. Her accidental rise to fame, driven by a passion for deals and saving money, offers a fascinating look into the world of influencer marketing and the organic growth of her platform. Listen as Gracey recounts her viral video successes, including a walking pad treadmill video that reached 2 million views, and learn about her innovative methods for discovering genuine Amazon deals.   In this episode, we break down the intricacies of creating engaging TikTok content and the art of viral marketing. Gracey provides valuable insights into the process of finding and promoting deals, emphasizing the importance of transparency in discount claims amidst Amazon's evolving pricing policies. We also explore the evolving aspirations of young people who dream of becoming influencers and the parallels with the unexpected success of third-party sellers on Amazon. Gracey's journey highlights the passion and dedication required to succeed in the influencer industry, and she offers advice on navigating the common pitfalls of trying to model oneself after established personalities.   As our conversation unfolds, Gracey discusses her involvement in the Amazon community, attending events like the Billion Dollar Seller Summit, and the enriching experiences gained from networking with successful entrepreneurs. She reflects on her recognition in the Dream 100 and the challenges of sustaining audience engagement in live streaming. Looking ahead, Gracey shares her thoughts on the future of her career, including potential opportunities like starting her own brand or collaborating with an agency. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the influencer industry, effective content creation strategies, and the ever-evolving landscape of e-commerce on Amazon.   In episode 397 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Gracey discuss: 07:44 - How To Find Good Deals On Amazon 10:52 - Sourcing Deals Online for Savings 14:45 - Building Audience Engagement Beyond Social Platforms  18:31 - Changing Perceptions of Career Choices 25:59 - Creating Engaging and Efficient TikTok Videos 27:29 - Importance of TikTok Video Hooks 33:21 - Love for Work and Growth 34:35 - Amazon Community Involvement and Future Plans 41:11 - Helium 10 Elite Membership Benefits 42:47 - Influencer Marketing and Live Streaming 44:53 - Building Loyalty Through Consistent Live Streaming 47:53 - Influencer Brand Relationships and Expectations 49:42 - Navigating The TikTok Creator Studio 55:07 - Managing Brand Expectations for Virality 58:00 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Join us as we unpack the gripping tales and insights featuring the extraordinary Matt Altman. Matt takes us on a thrilling ride through his e-commerce journey, from his early days of retail arbitrage to his current success in the supplements and food sectors. Reminisce with us about the unforgettable BDSS virtual event and a mastermind in Paris where Matt's savvy strategies earned him top awards, and listen in as we relive a legendary night of strategy-swapping by a bonfire, a true testament to the adaptability and knowledge required in the dynamic e-commerce arena.   This episode also shines a light on the intricacies of Amazon selling as we chat about everything from Amazon Seller strategies to the nitty-gritty of data and semantic SEO and learn how third-party tools complement Amazon's own data to sharpen sales strategies. We even touch upon the exciting advancements in image recognition AI and what it could mean for future search and ranking on platforms like Amazon.   Finally, we examine the burgeoning relationship between Amazon and TikTok Shop, as the social media giant increasingly influences e-commerce trends and search behaviors. Hear about the tactics that are proving effective on TikTok Shop, and ponder the potential of TikTok Shop as it begins to rival Amazon's early dominance. We wrap up with a look at strategies for reducing e-commerce fees and a teaser for our next episode, where we’ll have an expert guest talking about TikTok Shop, the Amazon Influencer Program, and influencer marketing. It's an episode packed with actionable advice and forward-looking insights – you won't want to miss a beat!   In episode 396 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Matt discuss: 00:00 - E-Commerce Success Story 07:39 - Market Analysis and Reselling Strategies 10:26 - Amazon Seller Strategies and Masterminds 12:06 - Finding Secret Strategies From Chinese Sellers on Amazon 18:14 - Evolving Data Tools in Software and Amazon 20:26 - Amazon Data and Semantic SEO 26:48 - Semantic SEO Keyword Analysis Process 30:58 - Optimizing Keywords for Search Engine Ranking 33:19 - The Future of Image Recognition AI 35:29 - AI in Medical Marketing With Keywords 38:41 - The Future of Amazon and TikTok Shop 39:01 - TikTok's Influence on Amazon Searches 46:14 - TikTok Subsidizes Shipping Costs for Businesses 47:58 - E-Commerce Strategies for Reducing Fees 53:30 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Join Lyden Smithers, an Amazon seller and negotiation expert who guides sellers through supplier negotiations. He shares his transformative journey from novice to negotiation wizard, revealing a six-step strategy for achieving win-win outcomes. Delve into the complexities of sourcing in China and the significance of building trustful supplier relationships. Learn how to craft unique products, protect intellectual property, and navigate global sourcing challenges, all while emphasizing the vital role of community in seller success.