AM/PM Podcast

#382 - From Estonian Streets to Global E-Commerce Success: Egle Raadik's Amazon FBA Journey and Seven-Figure Exit

Do you still remember the rush of launching your very first online business? the exhilaration mixed with a healthy dose of fear. But imagine scaling that to an Amazon FBA enterprise and experiencing a significant business exit. That's exactly what Egle Raadik did, and she joins us to recount her entrepreneurial odyssey from the quaint streets of Estonia to the global e-commerce arena. Egle's candid revelations about her interior architecture roots and subsequent pivot to digital marketing provide an incisive look into the liberating world of e-commerce, while her foray into creating a unique fruit basket product on Amazon serves as a masterclass in seizing market opportunities.

 

Egle's story is not just about the highlights; she opens up about the obstacles she's faced along the way, sharing the sort of insights that textbooks and webinars gloss over. From navigating Amazon's intricate marketplace to the real-world challenges of international product sourcing, Egle's experiences are a good source of learning. She details her humbling losses and spectacular comebacks, eventually leading to a seven-figure exit that underscores the importance of product portfolio balance and a team you can count on.

 

But Egle's entrepreneurial spirit doesn't end with selling one successful business. She's got her eyes set on the future with three new brands, all carefully crafted with exit strategies in mind. This episode is more than just a peek into the life of a successful Amazon seller; it's a roadmap for aspiring e-commerce moguls. Egle doesn't shy away from discussing the complexities of business and event planning across borders, highlighting Estonia's digital culture and its thriving community of e-commerce sellers. So whether you're looking for the inspiration to start your first venture or strategies to optimize for a lucrative exit, Egle's journey through the world of e-commerce is a compelling tale you won't want to miss.

In episode 382 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Egle discuss:

• 00:00 - Selling on Amazon and Entrepreneurship With Egle Raadik
• 08:48 - Getting Started In eCommerce and Amazon FBA
• 10:02 - Discovering Selling on Amazon in Asia
• 14:04 - Lessons Learned From Selling on Amazon
• 17:52 - Pivoting and Learning From Mistakes
• 24:11 - Entrepreneurship Challenges and Conscious Uncoupling
• 30:36 - Stress From Exits and Overcoming Them
• 33:43 - Repeating Mayhem and Moving Forward 
• 36:35 - Building and Selling Amazon US Brands
• 36:51 - The Importance of PPC in Business
• 39:48 - Creating vs Modifying Products From Scratch
• 44:00 - Amazon Sales and Business Buyers 
• 46:14 - Business and Event Planning in Estonia

#381 - Charisma Hacking And How It Can Improve The Voice Of Your Brand with McCall Jones

Ever found yourself magnetized by a speaker's presence, hanging onto every word as if it were a personal message just for you? That's the power of authentic charisma, and our special guest McCall Jones, an electrifying speaker from Funnel Hacking Live, knows it all too well. Together, we tackle the art of becoming an attractive character in the business realm, sharing stories and strategies on how embracing your unique personality can skyrocket engagement and build a loyal following. From the nitty-gritty of marketing beyond Amazon to the nuances of public speaking, McCall spills the beans on cultivating trust and leadership through genuine connections.

 

There's a certain magic in the way a leader conveys their message—whether on stage, through a webinar, or across social media platforms. Our conversation with McCall Jones dives into the transformative impact of an "attractive character" and how it transcends mere appearance, blending substance with style to create a resonance that truly captivates an audience. As we dissect the charisma styles that define our essence—entertainment, compassion, authority—we realize that an individual's unique mix is their superpower. This episode is a playbook on recognizing your inherent charisma, wielding it to charm the masses, and mastering the fine balance between attention, engagement, and conversion.

 

Wrapping up, we leave no stone unturned about the role of charisma in your Amazon business’ success. It's not about emulating heavyweights like Tony Robbins; it's about discovering and honing your charisma counterpart to amplify your strengths. We open up about the common pitfall of trying to appeal to everyone and how, by being unabashedly you, you'll naturally attract the right tribe. So, if you're ready to unlock the secrets of authentic charisma, to enchant and convert with the real you, this is your call to tune in. And for those yearning to dive deeper, join us in Hawaii for the Billion Dollar Seller Summit and Level Up event, where McCall will be casting her spell of wisdom.

 

In episode 381 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and McCall discuss:

• 00:00 - Attractive Character and Charisma Model 
• 07:36 - The Power of Charisma in Marketing
• 12:40 - Effective Communication for Video Success 
• 15:59 - Engaging Characters in Videos 
• 16:15 - Creating Charismatic Presence in Speeches
• 23:55 - The Importance of Warming Up 
• 26:18 - Engaging Audience Through Pain and Consequences 
• 30:06 - Importance of Engagement and Audience Response 
• 33:04 - Understanding Attention Span and Charisma Style
• 40:25 - Different Charisma Styles in Convincing People 
• 46:19 - Maximizing Personal Style for Effective Communication 
• 46:43 - Charisma to Attract and Convert Audiences
• 50:41 - Authenticity in Online Marketing
• 56:10 - Testing Influencers for Brand Alignment 
• 1:00:27 - Understanding Your Brand as a Character
• 1:00:39 - Kevin's Words Of Wisdom

#380 - The Entrepreneur's Odyssey: Sell - Scale - Exit - Repeat with Colin Campbell

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

#379 - Expert Advice On Amazon Seller Compliance, Black Hat Tactics, & More with Chris McCabe

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

#378 - The Real Money Is In Retail with Robert Gomez

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

#377 - Inside the Secretive and Thriving Marketplace of Buying and Selling Amazon Accounts

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

#376 - Maximizing Earnings with the Amazon Influencer Program: Strategies & Secrets Revealed with Liz Saunders

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

#375 - Crafting Your Money-Making Exit with Nate Lind

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

#374 - Using Affiliate Marketing as a Secret Weapon with David Katz

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

#373 - Keith O’Brien on the Intersecting Worlds of Online Selling and Pickleball

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