AM/PM Podcast

What happens when you pair raw entrepreneurial insights with hard-earned wisdom? You get a masterclass in navigating the business world, which is exactly what unfolded during my sit-down with Colin C. Campbell. This entrepreneurial maven, with ventures like Paw.com and Hip Optical to his name, joins us to shed light on the cyclical nature of "Start, Scale, Exit, Repeat." The conversation takes off from ground zero—starting a business—with guidance that's as real as it gets, sailing through the stormy seas of scaling, and anchoring safely at the docks of a strategic exit.   Ever wonder what it feels like to lose $100 million before your 30th birthday? Colin has been there, and it's the kind of experience that can either break you or pave a runway for seven successful exits. In this episode, we expose the underbelly of entrepreneurial setbacks, turning them into stepping stones for future triumphs. Colin and I reflect on the delicate dance of scaling, sharing the secret sauce for transforming small operations into titans of industry. We also tackle the art of hiring, where the employee's profile is the linchpin of efficiency, and dissect the challenges of raising funds, underscoring the importance of proving your business concept before reaching for investors' pockets.   Strap in for a journey through the evolution of marketing and innovation, where differentiation is king and securing your niche can catapult your business into the stratosphere. We analyze case studies like Reebok's 11-year hustle for U.S. distribution, Paw.com's dive into product diversification, and Hip Optical's fast-track manufacturing as blueprints for success. The final leg of our excursion guides you through the meticulous planning required for a lucrative exit, from compiling a list of potential acquirers to accentuating your team's prowess over personal ego. So, gear up for an episode brimming with entrepreneurial wisdom and strategies that promise to fuel your growth and amplify your business's potential. In episode 380 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Colin discuss: 03:34 - Success of Book and E-Commerce Focus 08:26 - Successes and Failures in E-Commerce Lessons 10:39 - E-Commerce Crash and Bad Luck 14:56 - Helium 10's Journey and Acquisitions 17:24 - Scaling Your Business and Delegating Responsibilities 29:54 - Scaling Business With the Right Profile 31:46 - The Scalability of Business  35:41 - Success and Challenges of Subscription-Based E-Commerce  40:38 - Using Suppliers for Financing in E-Commerce  44:20 - Reviews in Reebok's Success  52:18 - Innovation and Marketing in Business  54:16 - Maximizing Value in Exiting and Repeating 1:01:15 - Maximizing Company Value and Planning 1:11:12 - Virtual BDSS Event Announcement and Kevin's Words Of Wisdom

Ever found yourself tangled in the enigmatic web of Amazon's seller suspensions? Fear not, for Chris McCabe of eCommerce Chris joins Kevin King, to unravel the mysteries behind Amazon's enforcement tactics. From Chris' pivotal transition from an Amazon insider to a rescuer of distressed sellers, we dissect the complexities of policy warnings, suspensions, and the art of the appeal. Prepare to arm yourself with knowledge as we expose the perils that lurk within Amazon’s watchful gaze and the proactive compliance measures needed to safeguard your online empire.   Navigating Amazon’s TOS requires more than just luck—it's an intricate dance of understanding their team’s dynamics. We discuss the different factors that might leave your business on thin ice and strategize on circumventing language barriers for clearer support. This episode is filled with tricks of the trade, offering a clear path through the maze that could be the difference between thriving and barely surviving on the platform.   As we draw curtains on this enlightening session, brace yourself for a foray into the murky depths of Amazon's review system and the harrowing odyssey of account suspensions tied to 'related accounts.' We also contrast the starkly different treatment of colossal brands versus the smaller sellers and share entrepreneurial wisdom that transcends the Amazon marketplace. Stitched with insights into decision-making and team-building, this episode is a beacon for Amazon business owners intent on weathering the storm in today’s competitive marketplace. Join us for a conversation that's more than just talk—it's a roadmap to mastering your trade in the e-commerce age.   In episode 379 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Chris discuss: 01:38 - Expert Advice on Amazon Seller Performance 04:39 - An Expert's Help with Kevin's IRS Woes 10:57 - Oversight and Support for Amazon Sellers 19:00 - Changes in Seller Evaluation and Trustworthiness 23:44 - Policy on Relating Accounts for Suspensions 25:08 - Seller Review Abuse and Compliance 30:53 - Inconsistent Enforcement and Fake Online Reviews 44:13 - Issues With Amazon Review Wipes 47:14 - Financial Crimes at US-Based Companies 51:32 - Issues With Amazon's Review System 55:55 - Early Involvement in Problem-Solving Importance 1:01:36 - Seller Velocity and Speaker Lineup Highlights 1:02:53 - Kevin's Entrepreneurial Insights and Words of Wisdom

Join Kevin as he sits down with Robert Gomez, whose e-commerce journey took him from college side hustles with prohibited items on Amazon to dominating retail spaces like Walmart.com. Robert shares the gritty details of his early pitfalls, facing legal threats from well-known brands, and how he rose from the ashes to build a retail empire. Listen in as we dissect the crucial pivots and strategic moves that propelled Robert from a risky start to nationwide success, and how these experiences carved out a blueprint for e-commerce triumph.   In their candid conversation, Robert peels back the curtain on the challenging transition from a comfortable corporate job to the unpredictable world of Amazon FBA and beyond. He recounts the meticulous process of establishing an LLC, juggling a demanding consultancy role, and the relentless pursuit of his entrepreneurial vision. The chat uncovers the delicate balance of security and risk, revealing how a steadfast commitment to an independent business venture can coexist with a corporate safety net until the scales tip in favor of remarkable growth and retail partnerships.   Hear about the nuances of building robust vendor relationships, the finesse required in negotiating terms with giants like Walmart, and the comparison between Amazon sales and brick-and-mortar retail. Robert's story is a masterclass in business strategy, showcasing the value of face-to-face supplier meetings, the art of risk-sharing, and the impact of retail presence on a brand's success. As we discuss the journey from $500,000 to a projected $10-12 million in revenue, Robert's insights provide a roadmap for Amazon and Walmart entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of online marketplaces and retail expansion. So, tune in and take notes - this episode is a great learning experience for anyone aiming to take their brands to new heights.   In episode 379 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Robert discuss: 00:00 - Robert's Unconventional E-Commerce Success 04:50 - Lessons Learned From Selling on Amazon  07:02 - Corporate to Amazon FBA Journey 16:06 - Getting Nationwide Distribution With Walmart  19:30 - Achieving Seven Figures on Amazon 20:09 - Building a Business With Negotiated Supplier Terms  24:04 - Negotiating Terms With A Potential Buyer  24:30 - Building a Successful Coffee Brand 29:49 - Sell to Retailers, Stand Out 40:42 - Negotiating Retail Prices With Walmart 46:03 - Comparing Sales on Amazon vs Walmart 48:50 - The Importance of Retail in Sales 51:27 - Navigating Retail and Online Marketplaces 53:01 - Expanding Internationally and Targeting Walmart 56:28 - Opportunities in Retail  58:50 - Kevin's Golden Nugget Tip

Ever wondered what happens to those Amazon accounts that fall by the wayside, or how you could swiftly step into the e-commerce arena with an established online store? Join me as I sit down with the pioneering pair, Yoroslav from Ukraine and Aaron from the UK, who have carved out a fascinating niche in the Amazon ecosystem, wheeling and dealing in the trade of Amazon accounts. Their tales of growth, from Aaron's modest outset with Amazon selling to Yaroslav's foray into the world of online auctions, underscore the diverse pathways to success in this digital bazaar.   In our conversation, we pulled back the curtain on the logistics and strategic finesse required to run a bustling Amazon operation. The duo spills on the value of robust systems and processes when scaling up, and how a team of 40 to 50 can effectively manage a portfolio of high-revenue brands. Our guests don't shy away from the gritty details either.   As the episode unfolds, we examine the nuts and bolts of acquiring and transitioning online stores, revealing the intricacies of valuation and the due diligence required to sidestep potential landmines. Yaroslav's knack for creating a thriving marketplace for these digital storefronts paints a picture of a sector where auctions are commonplace and the rules of the game are constantly evolving. Whether you're an e-commerce veteran or new to the marketplace hustle, this episode offers key lessons and insights into a side of Amazon that remains shrouded in mystery to many. In episode 377 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin, Aaron, and Yaroslav discuss: 00:00 - Exploring Buying and Selling Amazon Accounts 08:49 - Amazon Partnership and Selling Journey 18:19 - Selling and Acquiring Amazon Stores 20:59 - Acquiring and Selling Amazon Stores  25:06 - Selling Amazon Stores and Closure  26:42 - Acquiring and Selling Dormant Amazon Stores 29:47 - Acquiring and Transferring Online Stores  31:03 - Due Diligence for Selling a Store 36:53 - Acquiring and Selling Stores 40:40 - Exploring Opportunities in the Amazon Marketplace  41:05 - Jay-Z's Journey to Meet Amazon Execs 45:11 - Demand for Partnership With Online Sellers  47:28 - Understanding Amazon Accounts 53:29 - Wearable Technology Opportunities 54:00 - Buying and Selling Amazon Accounts 54:47 - Kevin's Words Of Wisdom

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transform your online presence into a burgeoning business? Liz Saunders of Fluencer Fruit joins us to uncover the secrets of harnessing the Amazon Influencer Program to its fullest potential. As we reminisce about the evolution of Amazon since 2016, Liz offers a valuable list of strategies for both sellers and creators, emphasizing how the right approach can turn into a substantial income stream.    As we navigate the intricacies of shoppable videos on Amazon, our conversation takes a turn into the art of creating content that truly converts. Liz sheds light on the optimal video lengths that keep shoppers engaged, the unexpected retention rates for longer videos, and the power of platforms like TikTok to drive traffic and sales. Plus, discover the groundbreaking Fluencer Fruit Chrome extension, a tool that could redefine your approach to product research and elevate your Amazon influencer game to unparalleled heights.   Wrapping up, we dive into the nitty-gritty of content monetization and the journey to turn an engaged audience into a thriving side hustle. The discussion reveals how specialized courses and tools can guide you from the start-up phase to scaling your Amazon content for increased revenue. Moreover, Liz explains the value of providing a white-glove service for brands seeking quality, shoppable content from vetted influencers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to tackle Amazon's complex ecosystem head-on, armed with insights that could be your ladder to online retail success.   In episode 376 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Liz discuss: 06:51 - Amazon Influencer Program for Making Money 13:05 - Influencer Marketing and Amazon Attribution 19:40 - Amazon Influencer Program and Video Length 21:16 - Residual Benefits and Storefront Linking 24:34 - Approval Process for Shoppable Videos 32:40 - Maximizing Product Opportunities Through Influencer Marketing 34:20 - The Fluencer Fruit Chrome Extension 41:41 - Navigating Competitiveness on Amazon  42:34 - Creating Shoppable Amazon Videos 45:18 - Shift Towards Violence in Product Promotion 49:08 - Influencers and Language Strategy 52:17 - Amazon's Placement Impact on Sales 53:30 - Amazon Influencer Program 59:19 - Opportunities in Influencer Marketing 1:01:20 - Words Of Wisdom From Kevin King

Nate Lind, seasoned entrepreneur and business broker, joins me on an eye-opening journey through the thickets of e-commerce and the artful dance of business exits. Together, we peel back the layers of what it takes to thrive and survive in the competitive world of selling on Amazon, from the volatile whims of affiliate programs to the calculated strategies behind selling unique supplement brands. My own tale weaves through this narrative, sharing lessons learned from bootstrapping a business with credit card-funded inventory to finding success in niche markets like anti-aging and specialized hair care.   The conversation takes a turn to reveal the underbelly of missed opportunities and the adrenaline-fueled world of online business brokerage. As we swap stories, he unveils the evolution of Website Closers and the thriving market for digital marketing agencies, and Nate also shares his invaluable insights on the importance of timing and preparation for those looking to make their exit. The trade secrets from his book "Maximum Exit" come to life as we discuss the nuts and bolts of preparing for a business sale, including a due diligence checklist that's essential for any seller's arsenal.   As we wrap up, the Four Burners Theory comes into play, challenging listeners to consider the balance of health, work, family, and friends in the quest for entrepreneurial success. We explore the complex decision-making behind selling a business, whether it's for personal growth, health, or a new adventure. We talk about candid reflections on the post-exit paths for entrepreneurs, and how, after the dust of a sale settles, the drive to conquer new challenges often ignites anew. Join us for a deep dive into the labyrinth of online business, where strategy, timing, and intuition are your best guides to a successful exit.   In episode 375 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Nate discuss: 04:52 - Control of Money Flow in E-Commerce 09:34 - The Impact of Online Billing Scams  13:08 - Success in Selling Unique Supplement Brands 23:12 - Website Closers and M&A Marketplace Introduction 26:42 - Mastermind and Competitors in Affiliate Marketing 31:35 - Current Trends in Selling Businesses  33:00 - Market for Digital Marketing Agencies 35:26 - Digital Marketing's Role in Selling on Amazon 43:14 - Success in Black Hat Affiliate Marketing 46:38 - Navigating Challenges in International Business Transactions 48:48 - Preparing for a Business Sale 55:33 - Four Burners Theory for Selling Businesses 1:01:01 - Selling Business Strategies and Tips 1:04:30 - Words Of Wisdom Of The Week From Kevin

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

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

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

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