AM/PM Podcast

#434 - The Creative PPC Revolution: Rethinking Amazon Ads with Chris Rawlings

In this episode, get ready to unlock Amazon PPC insights with our expert guest. Discover creative ad strategies, advanced tactics, and future trends shaping e-commerce success.

Want to unleash the power of Amazon PPC while keeping your entrepreneurial spirit alive? Join us in an engaging conversation with Chris Rawlings, the mastermind behind Sophie Society. Chris shares his journey from a curious kid in a solar-powered home to a leading figure in e-commerce, blending fun with business success. Learn how the aggregator boom shifted the landscape, and explore Chris's unique strategies for navigating Amazon's complex advertising world with both expertise and humor.

 

Kevin and Chris also reflect on their unconventional paths to success, sharing anecdotes like the time Chris inadvertently carried a full-size sword at an industry event, breaking local laws. These stories highlight the value of independent thinking and creative problem-solving in entrepreneurship. From the challenges of scaling Juno Launch amidst changing review practices to the lessons learned from misaligned investor expectations, his experiences underscore the importance of resilience and adapting to adversity.

 

Finally, we unpack the exciting evolution of Amazon marketing, including the rise of AI and creative content. Chris discusses his dynamic five-day PPC event that transforms sellers into experts. They also venture into the future of Amazon search, predicting shifts towards intent-based, AI-driven strategies. Whether you're a seasoned seller or new to the game, gain insights on aligning products with market demand and leveraging creative ads to capture attention. This episode promises a wealth of knowledge for anyone navigating the ever-evolving world of e-commerce.

In episode 434 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Chris discuss:

• 00:00 - Amazon PPC and Business Fun
• 02:21 - E-Commerce Industry Success and Failure
• 07:07 - Unconventional Upbringing Shapes Entrepreneurial Journey
• 10:09 - Impact of Isolation on Mindset
• 14:50 - Lessons Learned From Entrepreneurial Failure
• 21:28 - Authenticity in Teaching and Testing
• 26:01 - Navigating the Amazon Sales Market
• 27:07 - Advanced Amazon PPC Five-Day Challenge
• 32:01 - Leverage Creative for Amazon Success
• 32:23 - Effectiveness of TV Ads for Brands
• 36:00 - Effective Marketing Strategy for Long-Term Success
• 36:58 - Future of Amazon Search and AI
• 44:29 - PPC Challenge Sophie Society

#433 - The Money Game: How to Secure Financing Without Sinking Your Amazon Business with Russell Walraven

In this episode, we’re going to talk about everything financing, some of the pros and cons of taking actual lending or advances for your business, and everything in between.

What if securing financing for your e-commerce business didn't mean sacrificing control or facing exorbitant interest rates? Russell Walraven from 8Fig joins us to unpack financing solutions that respect your business's autonomy and potential. We explore the tailored working capital options 8Fig offers to online sellers on major platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and Walmart. Russell also shares 8Fig's leap into SaaS, crafted to fuel seller growth and success, while addressing the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.

Navigating the murky waters of Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs) can be daunting, but we're here to shed light on this alternative financing avenue. Through personal anecdotes, we unravel the differences between MCAs and traditional loans, highlighting the risks and aggressive collection tactics that can ensue in cases of default. Discover the flexibility of new MCA products designed specifically for Amazon and e-commerce sellers, alongside insights on securing subsequent funding without fully paying down existing amounts.

Choosing between lending and equity financing is a pivotal decision for any entrepreneur, and we dissect this complex dynamic to help you make informed choices. Learn about the advantages of retaining full business ownership through loans with companies like 8Fig, versus the prolonged involvement of equity investors. We also delve into the process of pre-qualifying for loans without impacting your credit score and the importance of building a financial partnership founded on trust and understanding of e-commerce dynamics. Whether you're in the throes of financial challenges or planning ahead, this episode equips you with practical advice to secure fair and effective funding for your online business.

In episode 433 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Russell discuss:

• 00:00 - Financing Options for E-Commerce Sellers
• 07:24 - Flexible E-Commerce Supply Chain Solutions
• 10:16 - Alternative Financing Options for E-Commerce
• 16:11 - Marketplace Payment Enforcement Strategies
• 20:57 - Lending vs. Equity in Business Ownership
• 22:31 - Lenders and Stacking Loans Discussion
• 25:51 - E-Commerce Seller Funding Process
• 28:38 - Managing Seller Sizes and Deal Sizes
• 34:08 - No Origination Fees for Financing
• 35:34 - Navigating E-Commerce Financing Options
• 39:57 - E-Commerce Focus in Business Research

#432 - Amazon Traffic Hacks: How Influencers & Big Blogs Drive Millions with Richie Carreon

Unlock massive traffic with affiliate marketing! In this episode, our guest reveals how to connect with influencers, land top blog features & drive millions in sales for your Amazon business.

Richie Carreon from Levanta graces our latest episode to unpack the fast-paced world of affiliate marketing, sharing his extensive expertise in ad tech and marketing technology. As we weave through this insightful conversation, Richie lays out how platforms like Levanta are bridging the gap between e-commerce sellers and influencers, creators, and major publications. Discover the transformative power of automating these connections to supercharge traffic and revenue, particularly during high-stakes sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

We also dive into the magic of Amazon's affiliate traffic, revealing tricks to boost your product's organic search rankings and maximize your return on ad spend (ROAS). Uncover the untapped potential of passing along Amazon's brand referral bonus to entice creators and elevate your offers in a crowded marketplace. Whether you’re a seller aiming to streamline administrative burdens or a creator seeking the perfect product fit, Richie shares how to effectively navigate this dual-sided marketplace of 7,000+ vetted influencers.

Rounding off our episode, we highlight the human element in affiliate marketing and podcasting — building relationships that go beyond mere transactions. By nurturing genuine connections with podcast hosts and influencers, you can foster trust and drive organic promotion. Richie emphasizes the critical role of appreciation in these partnerships amid rising competition and skepticism toward traditional advertising. Join us for a transformative discussion that underscores the strategic use of affiliates and the immense power of relationships in today's marketing landscape.

In episode 432 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Richie discuss:

• 00:00 - Affiliate Marketing Strategies With Richie Carreon
• 03:52 - Affiliate Marketing Success Stories
• 08:24 - Leveraging Amazon Affiliate Benefits
• 15:07 - Innovative Affiliate Marketing Strategies
• 18:51 - Affiliate Marketing and Advertising Strategies
• 20:45 - Newsletter Advertising With Beehive Platform
• 22:53 - Maximizing Ad Inventory Sales
• 26:24 - The Power of Affiliate Marketing
• 30:48 - Building Relationships for Affiliate Success
• 32:16 - Building Business Relationships Through Sponsorship
• 35:03 - Amazon Sellers Membership Pricing and Expansion
• 39:02 - Competition for High Base Rate
• 42:38 - Exploring Diversification in E-Commerce
• 47:33 - Kevin King’s Words of Wisdom

#431 - Navigating the Future of E-commerce Advertising with Navah Hopkins: Uniting SEO, PPC, and AI

In this episode, we explore cutting-edge e-commerce advertising. Learn strategies to maximize reach on multiple platforms like Amazon ads, Google ads, and more.

 

Unlock the secrets of the digital advertising realm with us as we explore the journey of Navah Hopkins, a seasoned e-commerce advertising expert. Discover how Navah transitioned from teaching dreams to shaping the future of SEO and PPC marketing. With her experience in navigating the ever-changing digital landscape since 2008, you'll gain insights into the ethical dilemmas and strategic shifts that led her to embrace PPC. This episode promises a deep dive into the integration of PPC with SEO and the transformative role of AI in this burgeoning $91 billion industry.

 

Our conversation spans the evolution of advertising platforms, likening modern problem-solving to the once-dominant yellow pages. Navah shares how being present in the digital marketing space can secure a brand's status as a default consumer choice, similar to Amazon's rise to prominence. We also highlight the complexities of combining PPC and SEO strategies, the hidden challenges in automatic platform settings, and the value of accurate data interpretation on platforms like Google, Facebook, and Amazon. Nava sheds light on common advertising mistakes and offers practical advice on avoiding pitfalls that can mislead decision-making.

 

As we look towards the future, Navah shares her vision for the untapped potential of video advertising, particularly on platforms like Amazon where low competition offers a cost-effective edge. From influencer marketing to TikTok's global reach, we explore innovative strategies that maximize ad performance and attribution. Join us in uncovering how Navah Hopkins is leading the charge in ethical and innovative digital marketing, paving the way for what lies ahead in this dynamic industry.

 

In episode 431 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Navah discuss:

• 00:00 - AI Impact on SEO and Advertising
• 11:18 - AI's Impact on Branding and Consumers
• 14:11 - Navigating Different Online Advertising Platforms
• 14:59 - Evolution From Unknown to Default
• 22:01 - Google Ads Reporting Trustworthiness
• 23:00 - Avoiding Common Advertising Pitfalls
• 25:40 - Data Analysis for Marketing Decisions
• 31:23 - Discussion on Automated Tools and AI
• 32:34 - Vendor Selection for E-Commerce Sellers
• 35:10 - Payment Models in Marketing Strategies
• 38:22 - The Future of Video Advertising
• 42:58 - Amazon Prime's Transactional Ad Advantage
• 45:25 - Maximizing Google Ads Performance and Attribution
• 48:21 - Call Tracking and Attribution in Marketing
• 53:39 - Connecting With Nava Hopkins on Optimization
• 55:16 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#430 - Packaging That Sells: How to Triple Your Product Price with Strategic Design

In this episode, we cover creative packaging, premium pricing, sustainability, and unboxing strategies to boost consumer perception and e-commerce success.

Transform your brand's presence with the power of packaging! Join Kitty Lai, a seasoned expert in design and branding, as she shares her journey from a young worker in a packaging factory to designing for iconic brands like Ted Baker and Cath Kidston. Discover how effective packaging can elevate your product, enhance brand recognition, and even lead to viral success. Kitty unpacks the secrets behind choosing the right packaging materials and designs that captivate customers and communicate value. 

 

Imagine turning a simple kitchen knife, initially priced at $30, into a premium product that sells for $129 just by changing its packaging. Kevin King and Kitty Lai explains how strategic design changes can justify higher prices and improve product perception. Dive into the world of e-commerce and learn how market research can uncover customer willingness to pay more for perceived value. Kitty emphasizes sustainability, nudging brands towards recyclable and reusable options that resonate with today’s environmentally-conscious consumers.

 

For those looking to expand from e-commerce to retail, Kitty offers invaluable insights into selecting and sourcing packaging that aligns with your brand's identity and customer expectations. She discusses the art of the unboxing experience, where simplicity and thoughtful design can transform customer satisfaction into loyalty. Whether you're an Amazon seller on a budget or a growing brand, Kitty's guidance on maintaining design consistency and leveraging creative packaging will inspire you to surprise and delight your customers.

In episode 430 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Kitty discuss:

• 00:00 - The Importance of Packaging for Branding
• 03:23 - Career Path in Design Industry
• 06:02 - Evolution of Design Trends
• 11:31 - The Impact of Packaging Design
• 14:11 - Importance of Branding and Packaging
• 22:19 - Packaging Strategies for Amazon Businesses
• 27:08 - The Value of Presentation in Marketing
• 29:48 - Enhancing Customer Experience Through Packaging
• 31:19 - Packaging Design and User Experience Importance
• 34:01 - The Power of Packaging Extras
• 37:39 - Creative Packaging Solutions for Clients
• 39:57 - Packaging Design and Brand Consistency
• 45:29 - Importance of Brand Consistency
• 47:07 - Impacts of Creative Packaging Design
• 49:39 - Exploring Creativity in Brand Marketing
• 50:57 - Maximizing Packaging Impact
• 51:45 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#429 - How to Outrank Competitors on Amazon with Alina Vlaic

In this episode, get expert tips on ranking page one on Amazon, from keyword strategies and listing optimization to leveraging AI and actionable insights to boost your sales.

Unlock the secrets to achieving the coveted page one ranking on Amazon as we sit down with Alina Vlaic from AZRank. You'll learn to master the nuances of constructing effective listings and targeting the right keywords to enhance your visibility and sales. Alina shares stories from her journey in the e-commerce world, highlighting the dynamic Romanian e-commerce community and how it’s being driven forward by a strong IT and programming culture.

 

We trace the evolution of Amazon's ranking strategies, from the early days of product giveaways for reviews to today's focus on relevance and customer engagement. Discover how sellers have adapted to changes in Amazon's algorithm and hear about the tactics that continue to thrive. Alina and her team at AZ Rank, in collaboration with Helium 10, have pioneered methods like the CPR formula to help sellers navigate these challenges. Their insights shed light on crafting strategies that keep your products relevant in the ever-changing Amazon landscape.

 

Finally, we delve into the science of reverse engineering Amazon's AI, Rufus, to give your listings the competitive edge they need. Alina discusses the growing importance of rich media content like images, videos, and user-generated content, and how these elements can significantly amplify your product's appeal. Whether you're launching a new product or refining an existing one, learn how to harness tools like Helium 10 and Amazon's Product Opportunity Explorer to strategically position your brand for success.

In episode 429 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Alina discuss:

• 00:00 - Strategies for Amazon Page One Ranking
• 04:40 - Entrepreneurial Journey in E-Commerce
• 15:47 - Evolving Strategies for Amazon Ranking
• 17:05 - Amazon Bans Activity, Goes Underground
• 19:41 - Developing Formula for Amazon Ranking
• 22:35 - Crucial Strategies for Amazon Ranking
• 27:57 - Optimizing Flat Files for Amazon Success
• 29:53 - Optimizing Amazon Launch Strategy and Ranking
• 31:22 - Product Testing and Data Collection Techniques
• 37:04 - Product Success Maintenance Planning Strategy
• 40:07 - Reversing Amazon AI for Ranking Success
• 44:42 - Amazon Listing Optimization Through UGCs
• 48:12 - Trends in Product Innovation
• 50:14 - Kevin King’s Words of Wisdom

#428 - Kickstart Your 2025 with Amazon Strategies, PickFu Insights, and Social Media Tactics Featuring John Aspinall

Kick off the New Year with us as we sit down with John Aspinall, a leading influencer in the Amazon space and brand evangelist for PickFu. Together, we navigate the evolving dynamics of social media and explore strategies for effectively leveraging platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn. John shares his insights on using PickFu to test images and pricing, while addressing common misconceptions about Amazon as a source of passive income. We reflect on the shift from get-rich-quick schemes to more sustainable business models, alongside the aspirations of the younger generation, who are increasingly drawn to becoming influencers and creators in today's digital economy.

 

In a captivating discussion, we contemplate the potential acquisition of TikTok, with Amazon rumored as a possible buyer, and consider the implications of such a purchase without TikTok's unique algorithm. We trace TikTok's evolution from its Musical.ly origins to a powerhouse of creative content that rivals other social platforms. By examining the rise and fall of creative platforms like Vine, we offer insights into the future of content creation and the potential regulatory challenges that may arise for TikTok. Join us as we weigh the possibilities and potential outcomes for TikTok's future.

 

As we continue our exploration of social media strategies, we get into the nuances of optimizing content across various platforms. We discuss the effectiveness of Instagram Reels, Snapchat's transformation, and the challenges of maintaining a professional presence on Facebook. With John Aspinall, we explore the art of LinkedIn engagement, emphasizing authenticity and the risks of automation. Finally, we examine how tools like the Helium 10 Audience tool powered by PickFu enhance consumer research and product presentation strategies on Amazon, offering a comprehensive look at how brands can better understand customer behavior and optimize their social media presence.

In episode 428 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and John discuss:

• 00:00 - Social Media Influencer Dynamics and Trends
• 06:18 - Influencers Impact in China and U.S
• 11:18 - The Future of TikTok Algorithm
• 13:17 - Evolution of Short Video Platforms
• 14:37 - Social Media Platform Dynamics and Strategies
• 24:20 - Maximizing Visibility Through Impressions
• 26:05 - LinkedIn Strategy for Brand Growth
• 30:49 - Optimizing Polling Strategies With PickFu
• 34:53 - Proper Targeting for Marketing Success
• 41:10 - Understanding Customer Behavior Through Split Testing
• 41:23 - Pricing Strategy Experiment Results
• 45:42 - Product Presentation Strategies for Amazon Success
• 46:43 - Packaging Strategies for Amazon Success
• 49:31 - Importance of Clickable Hero Image
• 54:41 - Maximizing ROI With Market Research
• 55:56 - Newsletter Strategy and Dream 100
• 58:28 - The Mystery of Newsletter Selection 
• 1:00:47 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#427 - Breaking Down TikTok’s Fate and What Sellers Can Do Now with Rafay MH

In this episode, an expert in TikTok marketing shares insights on the platform’s future, 3 potential scenarios, and strategies to help Amazon sellers adapt and succeed in a changing landscape.

 

Curious how TikTok's trajectory might change the game for Amazon sellers? Uncover the possibilities with our guest, TikTok expert Rafay MH of Theuptik.com as we explore three potential futures for this ever-evolving platform. Discover how your business can stay ahead whether TikTok continues as is, faces significant transformations, or even undergoes delays. As Rafay shares his personal journey from Australia to Dubai, he also sheds light on the unique opportunities that come with adapting to change in the digital marketing world.

 

What's driving TikTok's success, and how can it work for you? Rafay and Kevin break down the platform's innovative algorithm, which levels the playing field for content creators big and small. We also dive into TikTok's raw content style that sets it apart from the polished perfection of other social media platforms, and how it has become a powerhouse for discovering and shopping. From its global reach, notably in Indonesia, to the complex interactions between tech leaders and former President Trump, this episode uncovers the broader implications for privacy and potential ownership changes.

 

Engage with TikTok creators to boost your brand's visibility and sales. Learn which strategies best support creators and strengthen collaborations by offering meaningful incentives and training. We discuss innovative marketing tactics using TikTok as a top-of-funnel awareness tool, emphasizing the importance of creative campaigns and a holistic approach to long-term success. Whether it involves running flash sales or launching groundbreaking campaigns, let this episode be your blueprint for conquering the future of digital marketing with TikTok at the helm.

In episode 427 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Rafay discuss:

• 00:00 - Exploring TikTok's Future with an Expert Guest
• 07:13 - Amazon-TikTok Marketing Strategy Success
• 10:25 - TikTok's Unique Algorithm and Future
• 11:31 - Impact of TikTok on Social Media
• 17:58 - Impact of TikTok on Consumer Behavior
• 20:26 - Smartphone Tracking and Marketing Strategies
• 23:38 - The Effect of TikTok on Amazon Sellers
• 24:47 - Strategies for Working With TikTok Creators
• 31:51 - TikTok Affiliate Marketing Strategies
• 33:33 - Boosting Sales Through TikTok Strategies
• 35:49 - Influencer Marketing for Product Launches
• 41:53 - Strategies for TikTok Content and Sales
• 42:58 - Marketing Strategy for TikTok Sales
• 45:21 - Brand Content Strategy on Social Media
• 48:54 - Content Strategy for Brand Engagement
• 51:54 - Season's Greeting from Kevin King

#426 - Navigating High Returns and Tariffs: E-Commerce Strategies with Shan Shan Fu

Discover how today’s guest pivoted from tech to e-commerce, overcame high clothing return rates, tackled tariffs, and thrived on Amazon. Insightful tips for low-margin industries and global living!

What if you could transform your career from tech to e-commerce and redefine the meaning of freedom income? Discover the inspiring story of Shan Shan Fu, a former tech professional who found her calling in online retail. From navigating the turbulent waters of PPE sales during the pandemic to launching a flourishing clothing line on Amazon, Shan Shan opens up about her journey, sharing insights on managing high return rates and low margins in the fashion industry. With the looming threat of new tariffs, we explore innovative strategies to ensure profitability and growth, all while discussing the lifestyle benefits of remote work from stunning locations like Medellin, Colombia.

 

Join us as we explore the revolutionary concept of Kindred, an initiative that turns home-sharing on its head, offering people the chance to live globally by exchanging home credits. Our discussion highlights Austin, Texas, as a vibrant hub for internet marketing and gastronomy, where Michelin-starred dining is now an exciting feature. We dive into how platforms like YouTube have been invaluable for self-education, enabling entrepreneurs like Shan Shan to stay ahead in rapidly changing e-commerce landscapes.

 

In our forward-looking discussions, we tackle the exciting potential of AI in product development and marketing, where technology is reshaping how products are visualized and sold. Shan Shan shares her approach to continuous innovation, emphasizing the importance of launching new products and optimizing supply chains by exploring manufacturing opportunities in places like Vietnam. Don't miss this episode packed with practical advice and inspiration for anyone navigating the fast-paced world of selling on Amazon.

In episode 426 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Shan Shan discuss:

• 01:00 - Discovering Success With Shan Shan Fu
• 04:01 - Defining Freedom Income vs Passive Income
• 08:18 - Entrepreneur Travels With Kindred Program
• 08:53 - Global Home Sharing and Foodie Explorations
• 11:57 - Fashion Business and International Manufacturing
• 12:47 - Success Through Strategic Relationships
• 22:27 - Navigating Tariffs in Clothing Industry 
• 28:44 - Navigating Tariffs on Imported Goods
• 30:35 - E-Commerce Product Ideation and Expansion
• 33:42 - Effectively Targeting Female Influencers
• 37:54 - AI-Powered Product Development and Expansion
• 39:44 - Launching New Products for Growth
• 44:05 - Kevin King's Parting Shot

#425 - Creating a Canine Empire: Innovative Strategies for Growing a Pet Brand with Julie Napolitano

In this episode, our guest shares her journey in the pet industry, from creative financing to Amazon success, networking in think tanks, and launching her brand on Nordstrom.

 

Join me as I sit down with Julie Napolitano, a dedicated pet lover and entrepreneur who has carved out a unique path in the pet industry with her Amazon private-label dog brand. Listen in as Julie recounts her transition from a corporate career to launching her own direct-to-consumer business on Shopify, driven by a passion for providing quality products for pets. We'll explore her experiences with innovative financing methods, including bootstrapping and securing grants, and discuss the pivotal role that events like the 7-Figure Seller Summit in Japan and the Market Masters Think Tank have played in shaping her journey.

 

In this episode, Julie shares the trials and triumphs of launching her brand, Pup Wax, on Amazon and the lessons learned from navigating the platform's complexities. From participating in Target's pet accelerator program to addressing the challenges of product compliance, Julie's story is a testament to persistence and adaptability. We'll discuss the importance of building trust with pet parents and the unique marketing strategies needed to stand out in the competitive pet supplement market.

 

Finally, Julie reflects on the transformative impact of expert think tanks and the value of networking at in-person events. Her journey underscores the significance of building meaningful relationships and the benefits of continuous learning and adaptation in business. As we wrap up, we'll highlight Julie's latest achievements, including her product launch on Nordstrom's national online platform, and discuss the importance of pursuing goals with passion and creativity. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that celebrates the power of resilience and community in entrepreneurship.

 

In episode 425 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Julie discuss:

• 00:00 - Julie Napolitano's Pet Brand Journey
• 06:18 - From Shopify To Amazon
• 12:36 - Innovative Calming Dog Toy Development
• 12:45 - Bonding With Dogs in Modern Society
• 18:48 - Trend of Pet Adoption and Bonding
• 21:28 - Marketing Challenges in Pet Industry
• 24:20 - Marketing Strategies for Pet Owners
• 27:35 - Amazon Brand Funding Strategies
• 29:02 - Bootstrapped Entrepreneur Secures Multiple Grants
• 30:53 - Tory Burch Fellowship Program Benefits
• 36:34 - Business Growth Through Market Masters Think Tank
• 42:56 - Product Success and Future Planning
• 45:44 - Networking Benefits Beyond Virtual Events
• 47:45 - Trade Show Discussion and Retail Opportunities
• 50:55 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom