AM/PM Podcast

#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

#372 - Building Real Brands with Amy Wees: Harnessing AI in Product Development

Join us for an insightful discussion with our esteemed guest, Amy Wees, who shares her wealth of knowledge gleaned from multiple years of successful selling on Amazon. Together, we explore the lifecycle of a product and discuss the secret sauce to Amy's sustained success. Amy also sheds light on how AI has become a game-changer in product development and how it's possible to host successful events in the Amazon-selling community. You're in for a treat, as this episode is chock-full of actionable insights for sellers looking to level up their game.

Don't miss out as we venture further into the power of AI in revolutionizing product development. Listen in as Amy shares her personal experience in utilizing AI tools like Chat GPT and Midjourney for tasks such as optimizing listings, reviewing products, and even logo and website design. In a world that's increasingly dependent on AI, we tackle the role of creativity and how to effectively blend it with AI for image generation, offering valuable tips for those struggling with the creative process.

As we round off, we dive into market research and its pivotal role in product design validation. You'll learn how we use Chat GPT to generate ideas for product packaging, drawing inspiration from iconic brands. Amy shares how market research and audience surveys are crucial in validating product ideas, making them more competitive in the market. With a focus on the future, we explore the upcoming image-to-image feature of Chat GPT, the potential of AI in enhancing e-commerce content, and how rapid advancements in technology will revolutionize various industries. So, tune in for an exciting journey into the future of selling on Amazon, AI, and much more.

In episode 372 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Amy discuss:

• 00:00 - Maintaining a Successful Product on Amazon
• 02:08 - Podcast Origin and Influence
• 07:14 - Sourcing Plastic Injection Molded Products
• 13:17 - Utility Patented Product's Long-Term Success
• 16:04 - Cost Comparison of Return Services
• 24:46 - Using AI to Revolutionize Product Development
• 27:58 - Impressive Logo and Website Designs
• 33:44 - Creativity and Starting With AI
• 36:32 - Start Learning Entrepreneurship and Photography
• 41:01 - Market Research and Product Design Validation
• 43:40 - Customer Perception and Product Selection
• 47:21 - AI's Impact on Innovation and Creativity
• 55:35 - Future of E-Commerce, AI, and Travel
• 1:05:14 - This Week's Words Of Wisdom From Kevin

#371 - Indian E-Commerce Sourcing Opportunities with Lokesh Parashar

Ever wonder why India is emerging as the new frontier in e-commerce and Amazon product sourcing? We welcomed seasoned sourcing expert, Lokesh Parashar, to shed light on this trend. Lokesh, with his 30 years of experience, unraveled the vast opportunities, potential returns, and occasional hurdles when sourcing from India. One key takeaway from Lokesh was the value of investing not only in the product but also in the community by actively participating in events and fostering relationships within the e-commerce sphere.

Taking a closer look at the sourcing landscape, he shares his experience on how he made a remarkable transition from factory owner to supplying giants like Walmart. The challenges confronted after the 9/11 tragedy, his move to Canada and subsequent return to India due to his wife's medical condition, and his eventual venture into sourcing for small businesses added a deeply personal touch to his fascinating journey. His takeaway was clear: opening his own US-based company makes financial transactions smoother and can even open doors to becoming one of the largest consulting firms connecting Indian factories and the US.

We couldn't leave the topic of sourcing without comparing India and China. Factors like pricing, quality, business support, and even labor costs were laid on the table. We discovered that while China has an edge in infrastructure and logistics, India isn’t far behind catching up. We also underlined the importance of building personal relationships with factory owners and taking the time to visit these countries. Finally, an engaging discussion about the importance of creating a federation for sourcing agents in India and how their unique program lets Amazon FBA business owners get an Indian sourcing trip with just $999 all-in. Come join us on this journey, and who knows, you might just uncover your next big business opportunity.

In episode 371 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Lokesh discuss:

• 00:00 - Amazon Product Sourcing Opportunities in India
• 00:22 - Manufacturing Benefits in India
• 07:13 - Career Transition Into Exporting and Manufacturing
• 09:57 - Sourcing and Exporting in India
• 12:13 - Relocating to Canada, Seeking Medical Options
• 16:08 - Comparing Sourcing in China and India
• 22:56 - India's Innovative Mixed Material Products 
• 23:09 - Importance of Visiting India and China
• 26:12 - Chinese Factories in Other Countries
• 31:25 - Affordable Ecom Seller Trip to India
• 33:15 - Federation of Buying Agents, Trade Shows
• 47:24 - No Catch in This Great Offer
• 54:06 - Advantages of Expanding to India
• 58:24 - This Week's Words Of Wisdom From Kevin

#370 - Cracking the Code of Effective Branding with Frankie Thorogood

What if there was a secret formula to building successful Amazon brands, and you had the opportunity to learn from a seasoned brand strategist? Buckle up because today on the AMPM Podcast, we have a real treat for you. We're thrilled to have London-based branding expert, Frankie Thorogood, share his exceptional insights into the intricate world of E-commerce branding and marketing.

 

From the initial spark of passion for advertising to becoming a successful brand owner, Frankie's journey is nothing short of inspiring. We chat about his first product, a snood, and how he maneuvered its negative perception to his advantage, a classic case of turning lemons into lemonade. We also share our experiences with online selling, particularly sportswear and compression wear, discussing the unique challenges and breakthroughs that marked our journey. We even get to dissect the success story of his UK-based sportswear brand, discussing the challenges of selling on platforms like eBay and Amazon, and the need for finding the right logistics partner.

 

We conclude by walking you through the maze of customer feedback and its critical role in shaping a brand. We underline the importance of human interaction in understanding customer needs, a nuance often overshadowed by focus groups and AI testing. Shifting gears to marketing strategies, we share our experiences with Amazon, discussing pricing strategies and the need for understanding the buyer's perspective. All this and much more in our insightful session with Frankie Thorogood. So, tune in and gear up to dive into the fascinating world of E-commerce product branding and marketing.

In episode 370 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Frankie discuss:

• 00:00 - Branding and Marketing Strategies for Success
• 01:58 - Bookstore Trips and Changing Reading Habits
• 07:37 - Analyzing Clever Advertising Campaigns
• 14:35 - From Retail to Online
• 16:57 - Selling Sportswear and Compression Wear
• 23:04 - Building a Successful Brand on Amazon
• 37:57 - Understanding and Engaging With Customers
• 44:23 - Marketing Strategies and Branding in E-Commerce
• 47:44 - Using Simple, Confident Titles on Amazon
• 53:57 - Passionate Pursuits and Potential Businesses
• 57:25 - This Week’s Words Of Wisdom From Kevin King

#369 - The World of AI for E-commerce with Jo Lambadjieva

Join us as we engage in a riveting discussion with Jo Lambadjieva, who shares valuable insights and provides a deeper understanding of the importance of strategic thinking in marketing. Her journey from a background in finance to becoming a digital marketing professional in many industries, including the Amazon space, makes for an intriguing listen. 

 

As the conversation progresses, we explore the world of Amazon aggregators, brand acquisition, and management. Jo enlightens us about her experiences in due diligence, onboarding new brands, and the hurdles encountered. We discuss the significance of forecasting and financials in enhancing performance and profitability. Furthermore, we talk about the best practices for Amazon sellers to track their data, improve cash flow, and consider diversification. 

 

In the latter part of our discussion, we dive into the realm of AI for Amazon sellers. We dissect the transition from manual processes to automated ones using AI tools and software, the benefits of utilizing customer data, and the current state of the AI landscape. We touch on the impact of AI technology and its potential in the Amazon selling space, and Jo offers expert advice on AI-based e-commerce strategies and the major changes Amazon sellers should watch out for. Tune in to this insightful episode and elevate your understanding of the world of AI for e-commerce.

• 07:39 - Exploring E-Commerce Opportunities
• 13:05 - Challenges of Finding Experienced Employees
• 15:28 - Challenges of Bringing on New Brands
• 26:10 - AI E-Commerce Consultancy for Amazon Sellers
• 33:42 - GPT Chat vs Cloud
• 40:12 - AI Revolutionizes Amazon Seller System
• 44:00 - Creating an AI Newsletter for E-Commerce
• 47:16 - Providing Value in AI Content
• 52:31 - The Impact of AI on Services
• 55:12 - eCommerce and AI in a Changing Landscape
• 56:00 - This Week's Words Of Wisdom From Kevin

#368 - Izabella Ritz: A Russian Entrepreneur’s Pursuit of the American Dream

Ever dreamt of building an empire from a humble start? Our fascinating guest, Izabella Ritz, proves it's entirely possible. With her compelling journey from Russia to the US, Izabella has scaled the heights of entrepreneurship, starting from selling her interior design studio thrice due to earning restrictions in Russia and teaching herself English, to becoming a successful Amazon seller in the US.

 

Izabella's story is one of grit, resilience, and a relentless entrepreneurial spirit. She shares her learning curve in product development, business expansion, and making the most out of networking opportunities. Her unique insights into managing a family business, with her daughter and ex-Marine husband actively involved, and her commitment to fostering a community of Russian entrepreneurs, highlight the essence of her success. Her experience in navigating the challenges of settling as an immigrant and pursuing the American dream while acknowledging the hurdles adds another layer to her unique narrative.

 

To top it off, Izabella gives a glimpse into her strategic investment in events and masterminds to stay competitive and her innovative venture into TikTok. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the opportunities available in the US compared to countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Mexico, providing an enlightening new perspective on the American dream. With Izabella's inspiring journey, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit.

 

In episode 368 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Izabella discuss:

• 02:26 - Russian Entrepreneur's Journey to Success
• 05:09 - Entrepreneurship Challenges in Russia
• 09:52 - Navigating Immigrant Cultural and Economic Differences
• 15:46 - Success in Selling Products on Amazon
• 19:58 - Building Successful Russian Entrepreneurship Communities
• 28:32 - The Transition to English-Speaking Community
• 31:37 - Surprising Talent
• 35:38 - Amazon Selling for Service Providers 105 Seconds
• 43:17 - Potential Changes to Amazon's Review System
• 51:25 - Exploring Business Strategies and Self-Improvement
• 56:15 - Opportunities and Challenges of Immigration
• 1:01:44 - Kevin's Weekly Words Of Wisdom 

#367 - Navigating the World of Translations, Languages, and AI with Jana Krekic

Join Kevin King and his guest, Jana Krekic, a language specialist and the founder of YLT Translations, as they engage in a fascinating conversation exploring the importance of translating Amazon listings for different countries. Listen to Jana share her inspiring journey from working in a call center 17 years ago to becoming a language expert and entrepreneur. Discover how she stumbled upon the Amazon industry and used it to generate her first sales, sparking her ambition to venture out on her own. 

 

As we continue, Jana and Kevin tackle the challenges of learning European languages such as Finnish and Icelandic. With these languages lacking international words, we discuss the best strategies for language learning and the crucial role of immersion and conversation with native speakers. We also underline the significance of thinking in the target language to achieve true fluency. We also turn our attention to the limitations of AI in listing and content creation, analyzing its potential in copywriting, translations, and localization.

 

Moving on, we examine the potential of Open AI in creating more nuanced translations of listings and how this could revolutionize the translation process. We also explore the awakening of some brands to the potential of Amazon's global reach. We also shed light on the challenges of localizing listings when selling on Amazon's international marketplaces and how AI tools can assist in copywriting and translations. So tune in as we navigate the complexities of language, translation, and the power of connection in achieving success.

 

In episode 367 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jana discuss:

• 00:06 - Multilingual Specialist From Serbia
• 08:14 - The Importance of Translations in Branding
• 17:24 - Translation Process for Multilingual Brand Expansion
• 20:21 - Translating Cultural Nuances
• 26:44 - AI Limitations in Translation and Integration
• 30:23 - Translation Tools in E-Commerce Limitations
• 34:39 - Challenges of Selling on Amazon
• 40:09 - Amazon Product Listing Issues in Different Markets
• 45:04 - Affordable One-Time Investment for Content Optimization
• 48:51 - Translation and LinkedIn Strategy
• 52:07 - Kevin's Words Of Wisdom This Week