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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
7 days ago
7 days ago
Learn strategies from today’s guest who shares her journey managing a $20M Amazon business. Discover tips on sourcing, multi-channel sales, and scaling leadership for lasting success.
Can you imagine sustaining a $20 million Amazon business where 70% of sales happen in just one season? Join us as we explore the toy industry with Jennifer Young, who shares her unmatched expertise in orchestrating this financial ballet. From tackling the fourth-quarter rush with precise forecasting to leveraging her Chinese connections for strategic sourcing, Jennifer reveals how she keeps her business thriving amidst varying challenges. She discusses the role of strategic partnerships and the financial acumen required to turn seasonal spikes into sustained success.
In this episode, we navigate the world of global product development and marketing, dissecting the art of juggling quality issues, inventory management, and brand differentiation. Jennifer sheds light on the multi-channel sales strategy involving Amazon, Walmart, and D2C channels, highlighting the importance of maintaining target margins and adapting to rising costs. With a mixed team based in China and the U.S., she illustrates the cultural nuances of marketing to a Western audience and the strategic advantages of having a U.S.-based category manager to enhance product presentation and conversion rates.
Leadership and team growth are at the heart of scaling any successful business, and Jennifer's journey is no exception. Discover her insights on finding trustworthy leaders, fostering a secure work environment, and the essential mindset shifts needed for expansion. She emphasizes the significance of mentorship and continuous learning, drawing from personal experiences and shared knowledge within the Amazon seller community. As we wrap up, Jennifer's story underscores her commitment to exploration, helping others succeed, and the joy derived from seeing team members, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, grow and flourish in the corporate world.
In episode 421 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jennifer discuss:
- 00:00 - Managing Seasonal Sales and Cash Flow
- 07:16 - Forecasting Sales Using BSR Rankings
- 11:28 - Global Product Development and Marketing Challenges
- 17:21 - Scaling a Business and Team Development
- 18:33 - Scaling Amazon Business for Growth
- 24:30 - Team Growth and Cultural Advantages
- 26:20 - Chinese Sellers and Brand Strategy
- 31:00 - Navigating the Amazon Seller Journey
- 35:33 - Best Conference Meal Experience
- 39:18 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom and Tribute to Zoe
Thursday Nov 07, 2024
Thursday Nov 07, 2024
In this episode, get expert Amazon-selling insights! Let’s discover winning strategies for organic search ranking, PPC optimization, and how AI is transforming Amazon search.
Join us as we welcome Brian Johnson to the AM/PM podcast, where we reflect on nearly a decade of experiences and insights in the Amazon-selling space. Brian and Kevin go way back to around 2014-2015, meeting at local meetups and SellerCon, and even sharing a mastermind group with some industry legends. Listen in as we reminisce about the evolution of mastermind groups, the significance of collaboration, and the transition from learning various tactics to transparent data practices in Amazon strategies. We celebrate Brian's dedication to sharing his expertise openly and his remarkable journey in e-commerce.
In this engaging episode, Brian and Kevin discuss the challenges and creativity required to succeed in the competitive Amazon marketplace. From launching a Julian vegetable peeler to mastering Amazon PPC advertising, we share our entrepreneurial journeys and the innovative strategies that emerged from them. We explore how tracking factors for search rank optimization can significantly boost organic sales and revenue, while also emphasizing the power of data in providing actionable insights. Brian's transition into the Amazon PPC realm, the evolution of strategies, and his exit from a PPC software venture are some highlights of our conversation.
As we look towards the future, the episode explores the transformative impact of AI on search technology and user behavior. We discuss how AI is changing search processes, leading to clickless searches and streamlining research tasks. Despite changes in search results, we emphasize the importance of staying adaptable to new technologies. The episode wraps up with reflections on the value of networking and wisdom in the e-commerce industry, and Kevin encourages listeners to stay tuned for more exciting episodes. Whether you're a seasoned Amazon seller or new to e-commerce, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration from Brian Johnson's experiences and expertise.
In episode 420 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Brian discuss:
- 00:00 - Decade-Long Relationship and E-Commerce Insights
- 09:58 - Amazon Organic Ranking Strategy and DeepM
- 11:19 - Entrepreneurial Philosophy and Competition
- 15:23 - Organic Rank in Amazon
- 19:48 - Amazon Search Rank Optimization Strategy
- 22:49 - Amazon SEO and Deep Learning Analysis
- 27:41 - Optimizing Search Rank Factors for Sales
- 27:45 - Amazon Search Optimization Strategies
- 31:23 - Rank Destroyers in Amazon Search Marketing
- 34:49 - Secrets of Amazon Ranking Factors
- 45:22 - Future of Search Engine Optimization
- 45:55 - Future of AI in Search Optimization
- 49:56 - Dynamic Titles in Amazon Search
- 54:32 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
In this episode, let’s supercharge your Amazon listings! Discover expert tips on A+ content, visual storytelling, and creative optimization to boost sales and captivate customers.
E-commerce listing wizard Daniela Bolzmann joins us to uncover the secrets to mastering Amazon listing optimization. From her tech beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in e-commerce optimization, Daniela shares her incredible journey, revealing how she discovered her passion. Her insights on the pressures and freedoms of transitioning from startup life to following passion-driven ventures paint a vivid picture of today’s evolving work culture.
Our conversation dives into powerful strategies for Amazon advertising and branding, challenging the status quo of product marketing. Starting with creative development, Daniela emphasizes capturing consumer attention through sound-infused product presentations and consistent branding. We explore the structured processes that help brands elevate their content, from sharp data analysis to creative briefs, and discuss the importance of split testing. The episode dives into the various levels of support brands require, whether they’re seeking full autonomy or ongoing collaboration.
The art of enhancing Amazon listings and A+ content through creative optimization and visual storytelling is another focus, highlighting the role of specialized teams in transforming product imagery into engaging stories. Daniela sheds light on AI and advanced search tools reshaping product discovery, and the importance of embedding metadata in images for visibility. We discuss the power of premium A+ content, featuring innovative strategies like hotspots and carousels, to boost engagement. This episode promises to inspire listeners with actionable insights to elevate their Amazon presence and drive sales growth.
In episode 419 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Daniela discuss:
- 00:00 - Mastering Amazon Listings With Daniela Bolzmann
- 01:59 - Speaking at Amazon Accelerate Event
- 08:25 - Amazon Sellers Lack Marketing Psychology
- 09:13 - Amazon Advertising Strategy and Branding
- 11:28 - Elevated Content Creation and Process Implementation
- 15:32 - Enhancing Amazon Listings Through Creative Optimization
- 17:09 - Amazon SEO Optimization Fundamentals
- 19:38 - Google Image Traffic for Amazon Products
- 23:12 - Optimizing Amazon Listings for Search
- 24:25 - Future of Image-Based Search Tools
- 27:12 - Common Mistakes in Image Creation
- 30:23 - Optimizing Amazon Listings With Visual Storytelling
- 32:45 - Utilizing User-Generated Content for Marketing
- 36:46 - Seamless Image Design Techniques
- 42:41 - Exploring Peruvian Cuisine and Fusion
- 48:11 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom
Thursday Oct 24, 2024
Thursday Oct 24, 2024
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
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
In this episode, our guest talks about YouTube growth, image optimization, selling internationally on Amazon, overcoming challenges, and top e-commerce strategies.
Welcome to an insightful journey into the dynamic realms of e-commerce and content creation. In this episode, we're joined by Helium 10 Elite member David Quintieri, who shares his wealth of experience as a seasoned YouTuber with over 100 million views. Listen in as we explore the exciting intersection of YouTube and Amazon, uncovering strategies for leveraging video and user-generated content to boost e-commerce success. We highlight staggering success stories, like those of the Kelsey brothers and Joe Rogan, to illustrate the untapped potential of monetization on podcast platforms. David offers a unique perspective on bridging content creation with e-commerce, sharing valuable insights for both aspiring and established sellers.
Join us as we discuss essential strategies for enhancing your Amazon FBA business, from effective image usage in product listings to transitioning from a YouTube career into Amazon FBA selling. Learn about the importance of storytelling and emotionally resonant language in marketing images, and hear personal experiences about transitioning from selling generic products to building a unique brand. We also explore the value of educational resources and small paid groups in overcoming challenges and inspiring entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need to understand the intricacies of the Amazon selling process.
Additionally, we examine the cultural differences in entrepreneurship between the US and other countries, exploring how understanding the American consumer is crucial for international sellers. Our conversation also touches on the innovative use of AI tools for enhancing product images and Amazon listings, offering insights into staying competitive in the evolving e-commerce landscape. Finally, we reflect on the impact of relationship quality on personal and professional growth, encouraging listeners to invest in nurturing connections. Tune in for an episode packed with actionable strategies and inspiration for e-commerce success.
In episode 417 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and David discuss:
- 00:00 - E-Commerce Strategies and Monetizing YouTube
- 07:07 - Utilizing YouTube Shorts And It's Algorithm
- 11:29 - Importance of Quality Photo Composition
- 13:28 - Amazon FBA Business Journey
- 16:51 - Scaling Business With Amazon Selling
- 23:10 - Building Confidence in E-Commerce Business
- 27:33 - Transitioning From Nine to Five Jobs
- 29:23 - Business Opportunities in Canada vs USA
- 32:47 - Advantages of Pursuing Opportunities in the US
- 36:57 - Utilizing AI Tools in E-Commerce
- 38:08 - Amazon Comprehend for Image Analysis
- 43:54 - Benefits of Helium 10 Elite Membership
- 49:15 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom
Thursday Oct 10, 2024
Thursday Oct 10, 2024
Gina Perez, former competitive college athlete and sports enthusiast, graces our podcast with her vibrant tales from the recent Olympics in France. But it’s not just about the sports; Gina also shares her adventures in the dynamic pet brand industry, weaving in stories of her entrepreneurial success and strategies in e-commerce.
Transitioning from a corporate career in the sporting goods sector, Gina talks about her move to e-commerce, providing a candid narrative of embracing change and entrepreneurship. Her story is rich with insights on navigating corporate restructuring and diving into Amazon selling. With humor and heart, Gina outlines the challenges and triumphs of launching her own brand, offering invaluable lessons on Amazon private label, inventory management, and financial strategy.
In the bustling world of pet products, Gina’s focus on unique offerings and brand differentiation shines through. With an emphasis on community and storytelling, she highlights how all-natural pet products can foster customer loyalty. The episode also explores the profound impact of the Helium 10 Elite mastermind group, which supports her with continuous learning and networking opportunities. Gina candidly shares how this community aids her growth, emphasizing the importance of mastermind groups and thoughtful networking in steering clear of bad advice.
In episode 416 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Gina discuss:
- 00:00 - A Trip to France and the Olympics
- 06:42 - Supporting Women's Sports With Custom Shirt
- 11:33 - Entrepreneurship Journey in E-Commerce
- 12:07 - Transitioning to E-Commerce Success
- 15:16 - Navigating Career Transitions in Business
- 23:04 - Pet Products E-Commerce Growth Strategy
- 24:38 - Entrepreneurial Risk and Investment Amount
- 28:33 - Entrepreneurial Approach to the Pet Industry
- 31:35 - Pet Product Marketing Strategies
- 33:58 - Brand Storytelling and Connection
- 41:21 - Switching from Jungle Scout to Helium 10
- 41:37 - Helium 10 Elite Community Benefits
- 48:02 - Value of Peer-to-Peer Learning
- 50:48 - Entrepreneurial Community Support and Goals
- 51:22 - The Importance of Collaboration in Business
- 53:16 - More Membership Benefits of Helium 10 Elite
- 59:06 - Networking Benefits for Entrepreneurs
- 59:47 - Kevin's Words Of Wisdom
Thursday Oct 03, 2024
Thursday Oct 03, 2024
Ever wondered how a commercial airline pilot could pull off a million-dollar Amazon business success? Join us as David Lang, the Lufthansa pilot turned e-commerce entrepreneur, shares his incredible journey from the cockpit to conquering the Amazon marketplace. Learn the secrets behind his dual career, and discover how the meticulous systems and numbers-driven strategies in aviation perfectly translated to his booming online business.
Peel back the curtain on aviation myths and misconceptions with David, who demystifies common fears like turbulence and clarifies the dynamic roles of captains and co-pilots. His unique story of balancing a demanding airline career with academic pursuits and a project management role at Lufthansa sets the stage for his leap into the world of e-commerce. From reverse-engineering a product failure to a game-changing success, David reveals the strategic planning and keyword wizardry that skyrocketed his sales to $1.2 million in just five days.
As we wrap up, David takes us through the exhilarating process of selling his business and achieving financial freedom. Is life after a successful Amazon FBA business exit all it's cracked up to be? Hear about the ongoing thrill of e-commerce, the benefits of strategic business networks, and future plans like his appearance at the Billion Dollar Seller Summit in Iceland. Don’t miss this inspiring episode brimming with actionable advice and captivating stories from David’s dual careers.
In episode 415 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and David discuss:
- 00:00 - From Commercial Pilot to E-Commerce Success
- 04:49 - Commercial Pilot License Requirements and Opportunities
- 09:53 - Pay Discrepancies in the Airline Industry
- 11:52 - Misconceptions About The Aviation Industry
- 14:24 - Perceptions of Pilot Profession
- 16:53 - Entrepreneurship While In The Airline Industry
- 22:18 - Achieving Success Through Reverse Engineering
- 25:26 - Calculated Risk Pays Off Big
- 26:59 - Amazon Keyword Manipulation for Brand Success
- 31:03 - Working With 8Fig for Business Funding
- 38:36 - Life After a Successful Business Exit
- 43:40 - Distressed Amazon Seller Turnaround Plan
- 44:45 - Business and Aviation
- 50:11 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom
Thursday Sep 26, 2024
Thursday Sep 26, 2024
Picture this: Two pharmacists trading their lab coats for entrepreneurial hats, diving headfirst into the world of Amazon FBA. Janine and Brian's journey from selling closeout tanning lotion and books on eBay to becoming successful Amazon sellers is nothing short of inspiring. This episode captures their transition, highlighting how their complementary skills—Brian’s keen analytical mind and Janine’s marketing flair—propelled them to success. You'll hear about their experiences at a brainstorming event with Perry Belcher in Las Vegas, where open and honest discussions led to breakthrough business insights.
We also explore their story as Amazon entrepreneurs who scaled their business to an impressive $5 million in annual revenue through strategy and grit. The path wasn’t always smooth; from facing major safety complaints and grueling IP disputes to navigating a nightmare Amazon business exit, every challenge presented a learning opportunity. This journey emphasizes the importance of resilience and problem-solving in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.
Beyond Amazon, we dive into the diverse world of entrepreneurship. Janine and Brian share their adventures in turning around a struggling Amazon brand that they acquired after their exit and managing multiple Airbnb properties. They reveal their plans to leverage their pharmacy backgrounds by starting IV hydration clinics, illustrating their knack for balancing multiple ventures while maintaining steady income streams. This episode is packed with practical advice and motivational stories, underscoring the power of partnership, resilience, and the human connections that drive business success. Don't miss out on this episode full of entrepreneurial wisdom!
In episode 414 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin, Brian, and Janine discuss:
- 00:00 - Brian and Janine's Amazon FBA Business Success
- 03:24 - Amazon Sellers Share Insights at Event
- 06:01 - From Pharmacists to Amazon Entrepreneurs
- 10:33 - Success Story of Taking Action
- 14:20 - Immediate Business Success Stories
- 15:25 - Navigating Amazon Growth and Selling Journey
- 20:14 - Advice to Sell Brand and Grow
- 22:31 - Amazon Brand Suspension and Patent Dispute
- 31:02 - Negotiation for Brand Acquisition
- 32:20 - Resolving IP Dispute With Faithful Conversation
- 35:58 - Business Dispute Resolution Conversations
- 40:42 - Turning Around a Nightmare Amazon Business Exit
- 40:46 - A New Brand Acquisition for $40,000
- 45:53 - Airbnb, Amazon, and New Entrepreneurial Ventures
- 49:37 - Damage Control Strategies
- 52:07 - Business Networking and Persistence in Amazon
- 53:11 - Maximizing Amazon-Selling Success
- 53:40 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom
Thursday Sep 19, 2024
Thursday Sep 19, 2024
Listen to this insightful episode as we chat with Steve Yates, the founder of Prime Guidance, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at Dick's Sporting Goods, Amazon, and Woot. Steve shares valuable strategies for liquidating inventory, controlling the buy box, and optimizing brand presence on major platforms like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. We explore the benefits of using Woot for your inventory liquidations and discuss effective methods for brands to establish and enhance their e-commerce footprint.
In our discussion, we cover the intricacies of e-commerce consultancy and growth strategies, highlighting the options available for liquidating or donating excess inventory and the benefits of each approach. Steve explains how Prime Guidance supports sellers in optimizing their marketplace presence by providing tailored consultancy services, training internal teams, and offering strategic advice. We also touch on the challenges brands face when transitioning to Amazon and the importance of channel control policies and managing their own sales to improve profitability.
Finally, we talk about the complexities of inventory and pricing strategy, discussing the importance of channel control, product serialization, and the Amazon Transparency program. Steve shares insights on maintaining good relationships with retail giants and the significance of product differentiation in retail success. We also explore the emerging e-commerce opportunities on platforms like Walmart.com and TikTok, emphasizing the need for brands to adapt their strategies to each platform's unique algorithms and consumer expectations. Tune in to learn how to navigate the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape and accelerate your brand's growth.
In episode 413 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Steve discuss:
- 00:00 - Opportunities in E-Commerce for Big Brands
- 01:38 - Amazon's Acquisition of Woot.com
- 06:16 - Retail Strategy of Daily Deal Website
- 08:26 - E-Commerce Consultancy and Growth Strategy
- 14:40 - Revenue-Based vs. Fixed Fee Agency Services
- 17:21 - Navigating Resistance to Amazon Marketplace
- 20:25 - Strategies for Brand Channel Control
- 26:11 - Controlling Inventory and Pricing Strategy
- 28:50 - Dealing With Amazon Resellers
- 32:54 - Channel Strategy and Marketplace Differentiation
- 33:59 - Business Strategies for Retail Success
- 37:35 - Key Price Points for Product Placement
- 40:40 - Brand Strategy in E-Commerce Marketplaces
- 45:21 - Branding Strategies for Amazon Success
- 47:27 - Emerging E-Commerce Opportunities
- 50:59 - Optimizing Walmart Listings for Success
- 54:20 - Unscripted Conversations on AM/PM Podcast
Thursday Sep 12, 2024
Thursday Sep 12, 2024
Join us for an engaging and insightful conversation with Melanie Shabangu-Katsaris, co-founder of Avask, as we explore the vast opportunities in expanding global e-commerce. Melanie shares her expertise on why sellers should consider expanding their operations beyond their current markets, whether moving from the U.S. to Europe or vice versa. She provides an overview of how Avask supports sellers with critical aspects such as taxes, shipping, and compliance. We also reminisce about the close-knit nature of the Amazon-seller community, highlighted by memorable industry events like an unforgettable evening at a Beyoncé concert.
Listen in as we navigate the complex landscape of global e-commerce regulations, focusing on the differences between selling on Amazon in the U.S. versus Europe. Melanie sheds light on the regulatory challenges sellers face, including VAT registration and customs documentation, and explains why the maturity of the U.S. market often leads American and Chinese sellers to prioritize it over Europe. Despite these challenges, Melanie emphasizes the significant opportunities available in Europe and offers valuable insights to encourage more sellers to expand internationally.
Finally, we discuss the comprehensive services Avask offers to help sellers achieve international compliance, particularly in the UK and Europe. From VAT compliance to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) eco-contribution, Melanie explains how Avask simplifies these complexities for sellers. We also touch on recent changes in European regulations, such as Amazon's new VAT on Amazon initiative, and how Avask collaborates with Amazon to ensure seamless compliance for sellers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to broaden their e-commerce horizons with expert guidance from Avask.
In episode 412 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Melanie discuss:
- 00:00 - Expanding Global E-Commerce With Avask
- 02:42 - VIP Experience at Beyonce Concert
- 08:01 - Leveraging Technology for Business Growth
- 13:59 - Navigating Global E-Commerce Regulations
- 18:37 - Marketplace Regulations
- 20:24 - Navigating European E-Commerce Tax Regulations
- 23:29 - Amazon's Market Expansion in Europe
- 27:16 - EU VAT Compliance Regulations Impact Sellers
- 32:11 - International Tax Compliance and Reporting
- 34:23 - Navigating International Tax and E-Commerce
- 36:48 - Declaring Taxes and Customs
- 42:33 - Expanding International E-Commerce Compliance
- 43:21 - Global Shipping and Customs Impact
- 47:39 - Amazon's VAT Program Conclusion
- 49:23 - Amazon Sellers Facing Compliance Changes
- 56:13 - Kevin King’s Words of Wisdom