AM/PM Podcast

#416 - Sports, Pets, and Masterminds: Gina Perez’s Playbook for Building a Successful Brand

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

#415 - How a Lufthansa Pilot Turned His Passion into a Million-Dollar Amazon Business

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

#414 - Amazon FBA Success to Chaos: How Brian & Janine Navigated a Nightmare Business Exit

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

#413 - Omnichannel Online & Retail Strategy Advice For Big Brands with Steve Yates

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

#412 - Expanding Your E-commerce Business into Europe with Melanie Katsaris' Tax & Compliance Expertise

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

#411 - The Key To Explosive Sales In TikTok Shop with Josh Coleman

Join us as we welcome Josh Coleman, a Helium 10 Elite member, who shares his inspiring journey of launching and growing his brand on TikTok. After attending a Helium 10 Elite workshop in late 2023, Josh and his wife decided to experiment with TikTok, drawing from their unique blend of design and data-driven strategies. Listen in as Josh discusses how his passion for analytics helped him understand their audience better and the collaborative dynamic with his wife that propelled their brand to success.

 

We also explore the experiences of a couple who transitioned to full-time e-commerce with Amazon in late 2022, achieving seven-figure revenue within a year despite having no prior experience. Their story highlights the importance of focusing on building a brand and audience, navigating supply chain challenges, and understanding the difference between revenue and profit. Additionally, we discuss the misleading promises of easy success in e-commerce and the evolving complexities of the industry.

 

Finally, the episode touches on maximizing sales across multiple platforms, emphasizing the value of learning from those with practical experience. We discuss the impact of TikTok Shop, the strategic alliance between Amazon and TikTok, and the growing influence of influencer-driven sales. For those looking to transition from Amazon to TikTok Shop, we offer practical steps and highlight the importance of having a hero product and effective inventory management. Join us for a comprehensive look at the future of e-commerce and influencer marketing, and discover how you can stay ahead in this dynamic landscape.

In episode 411 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Josh discuss:

• 00:00 - TikTok Sales Boost E-commerce Business
• 03:51 - Helium 10 Elite Workshop To TikTok Success
• 08:09 - Building a Successful Amazon Business
• 13:57 - Long-Term Strategy for Amazon Business
• 15:58 - Maximizing Sales Across Multiple Platforms
• 20:50 - Comparing TikTok and Amazon Sales
• 32:48 - TikTok Influencers Boost Amazon Sales
• 35:43 - Maximizing TikTok Shop With Creators
• 42:24 - TikTok Creators and Agency Partnerships
• 45:01 - Leveraging Influencer Agencies Strategically
• 47:47 - Optimizing Hero Products for TikTok
• 51:27 - Future of E-Commerce and Influencer Marketing
• 56:18 - How To Get In Touch With Josh Coleman
• 58:36 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

#410 - When Does Price Really Matter on Amazon with Chad Rubin

Can a laid-off Wall Street analyst turn a small vacuum cleaner parts store into a thriving e-commerce empire? Chad Rubin did just that, and in this episode, he shares his remarkable journey from the financial crisis of 2008 to becoming a pioneer in the world of Amazon selling. We explore how Chad's commitment to high-quality products and strategic pricing propelled his private-label business to success. Discover the pivotal moments that led to the birth of Skubana, a multi-marketplace management powerhouse, and his latest venture, Profasee, which revolutionizes dynamic pricing for sellers.

 

Chad's story is a testament to the power of continuous innovation in e-commerce. We discuss the relentless need for product iteration, the complexities of protecting intellectual property in China, and the creation of Skubana as a response to the inefficiencies in existing inventory management systems. From transitioning between platforms like Volusion, Magento, and Shopify to addressing the unique challenges of the e-commerce landscape, Chad provides invaluable insights that every entrepreneur can learn from. 

 

But Chad's contributions go beyond his own businesses. Tune in to hear about the evolution of the Prosper Show conferences, a leading event for Amazon sellers co-founded by Chad to foster community and knowledge sharing. We also dive into the intricacies of dynamic pricing strategies with Profasee, comparing them to Uber's surge pricing and exploring their impact on profitability. Whether you're an e-commerce novice or a seasoned seller, Chad's expertise and passion for the industry will leave you inspired and armed with strategies to elevate your own Amazon business.

In episode 410 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Chad discuss:

• 08:17 - Evolution of Aftermarket Parts Industry
• 11:09 - Constant Innovation in E-Commerce Business
• 13:39 - Challenges of Protecting Intellectual Property
• 18:47 - Evolution of Prosper Show Conferences
• 18:48 - Entrepreneur Launches Various Business Ventures
• 24:12 - Evolution of International Seller Conference
• 29:45 - The Truth About E-Commerce Conferences
• 35:10 - Advanced Pricing Strategies for E-Commerce Sellers
• 39:59 - Enhancing E-Commerce Pricing Strategies
• 40:43 - Effectiveness of Static Pricing Strategy
• 46:03 - More Strategies for E-Commerce Success
• 51:52 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

#409 - Balancing Life & Biz: Surviving a Stroke & Scaling Amazon Brands with Adam Heist

Adam Heist, famously known as Adam Runquist, shares his extraordinary journey from the corporate energy sector to becoming a top-tier Amazon seller. Discover how Adam's expertise in mergers and acquisitions led him to identify the untapped potential of physical products, eventually leading to the creation and a 7-figure exit of his own Amazon brand. We'll also hear about his adventurous travels in Bali, insights into the transformative impact of branding and AI on Amazon sellers, and his continued ventures managing multiple brands and a thriving YouTube channel.

 

Join us as Adam opens up about the challenges of content creation, balancing a high-demand executive job while running multiple Amazon brands, and the strategic decision to transition from a corporate career to full-time entrepreneurship. He dives into the emotional and financial turbulence he faced, including a life-changing stroke recovery, and how these experiences have shaped his approach to business and life. From navigating divorce to leveraging affiliate marketing and online courses, Adam's story is a testament to resilience and adaptability.

 

Finally, explore the intricate world of Amazon selling with a focus on AI-driven strategies, the necessity of building robust business teams, and the importance of personalized organic rankings. Adam provides practical advice on creating resilient operations, leveraging Filipino talent for scaling, and the ever-evolving landscape of e-commerce. Get ready to be inspired by Adam's invaluable lessons on staying ahead in the competitive market, the power of personal reinvention, and the future of Amazon selling.

In episode 409 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Adam discuss:

• 00:00 - Amazon-Seller Journey With Adam Heist
• 00:30 - Is It Adam Heist Or Adam Adam Runquist??
• 06:52 - Entrepreneurship, Life Change, and Reflection
• 16:30 - Van Life Experience in Australia
• 17:37 - Stroke Recovery and Unexpected Setback
• 22:36 - Building a Resilient Business Team
• 23:46 - Lesson on Business Operations Independence
• 26:55 - Business Operations Supply Chain Management
• 29:13 - Business Building and Content Creation
• 32:59 - Business Growth Through Investments and Learning
• 38:19 - Ethics in Amazon Agency Industry
• 38:35 - Expanding Perspectives for Amazon Sellers
• 45:51 - Future of Amazon Selling With AI
• 46:50 - Personal Growth and Business Success
• 49:39 - Future of Keyword Targeting on Amazon
• 53:36 - Future of Amazon Organic Ranking
• 55:32 - Preparing for E-Commerce Success
• 59:26 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

#408 - Innovating E-Commerce Through AI with Max Sinclair

What if artificial intelligence could revolutionize your e-commerce business? That's exactly what Max Sinclair, a former Amazon insider turned AI entrepreneur, believes and shares with us in this eye-opening episode. With six years of experience in various strategic roles at Amazon, Max's journey from managing top European accounts to founding an AI company dedicated to Amazon sellers is nothing short of inspiring. His transition from Amazon to launching his AI venture, spurred by an early demonstration of stable diffusion and the release of ChatGPT, provides a fascinating backdrop for understanding the transformative potential of AI in online marketplaces.

 

Throughout our conversation, Max dives into the challenges and future potential of AI-generated content, particularly in text and image creation. He explains the limitations of current models like GPT-4 and offers insights into how future models will evolve and improve. We also discuss the broader implications of AI technology, touching on concerns about misinformation and the role of trusted sources in mitigating these risks. Max shares compelling arguments on why staying informed and engaged with AI advancements is crucial for anyone involved in e-commerce.

 

Max's expertise shines as he introduces an advanced e-commerce tool designed to optimize product listings with remarkable speed and accuracy. This tool, integrating seamlessly with platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart, offers a leap in efficiency for sellers by generating comprehensive listings, including text, infographics, and images, with just one click. We also explore the success stories of sellers who have leveraged AI to significantly improve their listing visibility and consumer preference, underscoring the transformative impact of AI in the e-commerce space. Don't miss this insightful episode where we uncover the future of AI in e-commerce with a true industry expert.

In episode 408 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Max discuss:

• 00:00 - AI in E-Commerce With Max Sinclair
• 03:10 - Strategic Account Management and Product Innovation
• 05:25 - Lessons From Amazon's Culture
• 07:55 - Opportunities in AI and E-Commerce
• 11:04 - Artificial Intelligence Revolutionizes Image Generation
• 17:16 - Challenges With Photorealistic Image Generation
• 20:11 - Future of Distinguishing Real From Fake
• 24:39 - Impact of AI on Society
• 24:50 - Future of AI Generative Content Models
• 32:05 - AI Product Listing Optimization and Generation
• 36:42 - Insights on AI in E-Commerce
• 39:09 - ChatGPT Prompting for Genuine Responses
• 42:43 - Future of E-Commerce and AI
• 48:58 - AI in E-Commerce Evolution
• 51:46 - Exploring E-Commerce Content and AI
• 53:33 - Kevin's Market Masters Event Announcement
• 54:05 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

#407 - From Freedom Ticket Student To 7-Figure Seller: The Inspiring Story of Marcela O'Campo’s Amazon Breakthrough

Join us as we sit down with Marcela O’campo, who shares her inspiring journey from Colombia to the United States and her remarkable success in the Amazon business. With a background in industrial design and engineering, Marcela transitioned from a global career at Johnson & Johnson to launching her own product line in 2020 after discovering the Freedom Ticket from Helium 10. By 2021, she achieved her first seven-figure year, transforming her life and providing her with the freedom to work from home and care for her family. Listen in as Marcela recounts her experience and the sources of inspiration that fueled her entrepreneurial journey.

 

Our conversation continues with Marcela detailing her career transitions and the personal decisions that led her to embrace the Amazon business platform. From leaving a thriving corporate job in Brazil to facing significant hardships in Colombia's countryside, Marcela’s resilience shines through. She speaks candidly about the challenges of agricultural business, financial struggles, and preparing for motherhood, all while discovering the potential of Amazon's marketplace. Marcela's story is a testament to aligning past professional experience with new opportunities and the pursuit of entrepreneurial success.

 

Lastly, we explore the practical aspects of running an Amazon business, from managing a seasonal gardening product line to navigating the visa process for a move to the U.S. Marcela shares her insights on balancing family life with business growth, the importance of unique product designs, and the potential for international expansion. Additionally, she addresses the economic contrasts between Colombia and the U.S. and emphasizes the value of educational resources like Helium 10's Freedom Ticket. Tune in for an inspiring episode filled with practical advice, personal stories, and the excitement of entrepreneurial ventures.

In episode 407 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Marcela discuss:

• 00:00 - From Colombia to the US
• 06:59 - Colombia's Image and Entrepreneurial Opportunities
• 11:59 - Language Learning and Travel Experiences 
• 14:26 - Transitioning to Online Business With Amazon
• 19:50 - Discovery of Amazon Business Opportunity
• 22:15 - Unique Online Business Success
• 23:58 - Product Design and Manufacturing Process
• 31:23 - Wholesale Marketplace for Small Retailers
• 34:51 - Business Relocation for Safety and Growth
• 35:25 - Amazon Business Visa Journey Success
• 40:26 - Balancing Family, Business, and Growth
• 50:12 - Opportunities in International E-Commerce
• 53:25 - Comparing Wages and Opportunities in Colombia
• 57:14 - Empowering Success Stories in Selling
• 58:33 - Billion Dollar Sellers Newsletter and Events
• 59:13 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom