In this episode, discover how to optimize your Amazon listings this holiday season, and our guest shares her FILTER framework and why the human touch still beats AI in driving conversions.

Unlock the secrets of e-commerce success this holiday season by mastering the art of Amazon listing optimization with Karyn Thomas, our seasoned guest with a knack for turning Amazon product pages into sales powerhouses. Journey through her inspiring transition from a marketing professional to a listing optimization guru, and discover the innovative FILTR framework that transforms ordinary product listings into irresistible offers. This episode offers a ton of strategies and insights that have propelled Karyn to the forefront of the e-commerce world, setting up your listings for stellar conversion rates and category rankings.

Dive deep into the FILTER framework, where each element, plays a pivotal role in capturing the attention and hearts of customers. Harness the power of "why" from Simon Sinek’s philosophy to engage shoppers on an emotional level, and learn practical ways to apply these concepts to your listings. Karyn also unveils the critical importance of visuals in product listings, exploring the use of advanced AI tools to enhance image analysis and storytelling that resonates with your target demographic.

As the digital landscape evolves, so must your strategies. Explore the latest trends in video content and AI integration for Amazon and beyond. Karyn discusses the growing potential of platforms like TikTok Shop and shares insights on maintaining a human touch amidst technological advancements. This conversation is packed with actionable tips to optimize your listings continuously, ensuring they remain competitive and compelling. Join us and embrace the exciting future of e-commerce with confidence and creativity.

In episode 473 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Karyn discuss:

• 00:00 - Listing Optimization Strategies for Amazon Sales
• 10:08 - Key Factors in Amazon Sales Success
• 11:28 - Listing Optimization Framework
• 18:17 - The Power of Storytelling in Sales
• 22:21 - Optimizing Amazon Listings With Images
• 29:01 - Amazon Listing Optimization Strategies
• 32:09 - Video Creation for Advertising and Listings
• 35:30 - Differentiating Product Positioning for Listings
• 41:20 - Effective Amazon Listing Design Strategies
• 45:26 - Importance of Design in Amazon Sales
• 47:37 - Human Touch in E-Commerce
• 55:50 - Human Touch in AI Marketing

Thinking about going global? Learn how to expand from the US to the UK and the EU the smart way. We break down VAT, EPR, PAN-EU, cash flow, and compliance so international growth feels easy.

What if expanding your e-commerce business globally was simpler than you ever imagined? Join us as we welcome Demet Kale from Vatai, who is here to dismantle the daunting myths surrounding international expansion and VAT compliance. Together, we demystify the processes that often hold sellers back from seizing the lucrative opportunities European markets have to offer. Demet offers her expert insights into how a unified compliance solution can pave a smoother path amidst the growing competition, especially with manufacturers stepping directly into the scene.

Curious about leveraging Amazon’s vast European network for your business? We discuss the hurdles and victories of selling through Amazon in Europe, emphasizing the power of Amazon’s logistics and support systems. Tackling issues like multi-currency cash flow and the importance of VAT registration, we highlight how a strategic partnership can make navigating these waters much easier. Our dialogue underscores the necessity of knowledgeable partners in achieving seamless customs clearance and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles.

Beyond the realm of Amazon, we expand our horizons to explore global e-commerce strategies, including the OSS scheme for platforms like Shopify. Discover how this system simplifies VAT reporting for sellers with a German VAT number and enables them to cater to local VAT rates across EU countries. We also venture into alternative marketplaces like Allegro, CDiscount, and Bol.com, while addressing essential compliance topics such as EORI numbers and Extended Producer Responsibility in Europe. Whether you're a U.S. seller eyeing the European market or vice versa, this episode is packed with strategies to help you build a sustainable global brand.

In episode 472 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Demet discuss:

• 00:00 - Expanding E-Commerce Globally With VAT
• 01:48 - Global E-Commerce Compliance Services
• 12:19 - International Expansion and Cash Flow
• 16:40 - Expanding Amazon Sales Internationally
• 20:08 - Navigating VAT and E-Commerce Expansion
• 26:10 - Amazon Eases VAT Compliance for Sellers
• 28:02 - E-Commerce Expansion Beyond Amazon
• 32:07 - Exploring International Marketplaces and Logistics
• 38:43 - Label Tool and EU Representation Requirements
• 42:30 - Global E-Commerce Expansion Strategies
• 43:16 - Common Mistakes in International Expansion
• 51:12 - Guiding International Expansion With Demet

Learn how today’s guest went from eBay to AI-driven marketing. Discover his secrets to LinkedIn growth, UGC blitz campaigns, trade show ROI, and mastering AEO optimization.

Rob Stanley, a trailblazer in the e-commerce realm since the late '90s, shares his unique journey from selling parts for Palm Pilots on eBay to pioneering iPhone repair sales via YouTube. With nearly three decades of experience, Rob uncovers the secrets behind maximizing LinkedIn presence and the power of user-generated content strategies. He also recounts his remarkable transformation from being the "money man" to collaborating with companies challenging giants like Shopify. His stories are not just about past achievements but offer a roadmap for today's e-commerce professionals looking to make a mark in a dynamic industry.

Our conversation takes an exciting turn as we explore the captivating world of trade shows and the art of standing out. Rob shares vivid anecdotes on how to create unforgettable trade show experiences, emphasizing the need for creative hooks and interactive booth presentations to capture attendees' attention. Further, we dive into the art of crafting compelling LinkedIn posts that spur engagement, complete with insights on using varied content types and scheduling tools to maintain a vibrant online presence. With Rob's clever strategies, listeners will find themselves equipped with the tools to transform their LinkedIn and trade show tactics into genuine business growth.

In the final segment, Rob and Kevin explore the future of e-commerce, with a spotlight on AI optimization tools and emerging trends. We discuss the innovative potential of Super User-Generated Content and the evolution of e-commerce platforms, such as Miva. Rob offers compelling insights into how AI tools are reshaping search engine strategies, ensuring that brands stay visible in an increasingly digital world. From driverless technology to the evolution of sales dynamics, Rob's expert perspective provides a glimpse into the future, urging listeners to stay ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving landscape.

In episode 471 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Rob discuss:

• 00:00 - E-Commerce Journey With The "Money Man" Rob Stanley
• 07:51 - Discussion on Trade Shows and Feedback
• 08:46 - Maximizing Trade Show ROI
• 14:00 - Standing Out at Trade Shows
• 18:23 - Maximizing LinkedIn for E-Commerce Success
• 20:01 - Maximizing LinkedIn Engagement Strategies
• 24:41 - Promoting Brands and Products on LinkedIn
• 31:06 - Strategic Super UGC Marketing Blitz
• 38:11 - E-Commerce Industry Trends and Insights
• 44:33 - AI Optimization Tools for E-Commerce
• 48:47 - Chat GPT and AEO Rise
• 53:40 - Evolution of E-Commerce and AI
• 55:10 - Social Media Reach Out Tips

In this episode, we discuss how the next two years will redefine Amazon seller success. From AI and data to smarter testing, learn what it takes to stay ahead in the fastest-changing e-commerce era.

Join us on this episode as we explore the journey of Anthony Cofrancesco, a trailblazer in the e-commerce industry. Listen in as Anthony recounts his experiences from founding a conversion optimization agency for Amazon sellers to becoming a prominent speaker and e-commerce expert. He shares valuable insights from his early entrepreneurial days in Asia, where he co-founded a company focused on enhancing Amazon listings through graphics, video, and copywriting services. Discover how living in the Philippines, amidst a vibrant entrepreneurial community, allowed Anthony to significantly grow his business, eventually leading to the acquisition of his agency and his remarkable success with PickFu.

In a fascinating discussion on A/B testing, Anthony reveals how integrating testing into business strategies can drive substantial growth. Hear about his journey with PickFu and how strategic A/B testing helped brands like Thrasio's Angry Orange and Pink Miracle achieve remarkable sales increases. Anthony underscores the importance of moving beyond gut instincts, emphasizing that the initial investment in testing can yield significant long-term benefits. Learn how continual experimentation and rigorous testing can be the keys to success in today's competitive e-commerce landscape.

The conversation also explores the future of e-commerce, highlighting the evolving role of AI in streamlining business execution for Amazon sellers. Anthony discusses the challenges faced by sellers in navigating the overwhelming amount of information and how AI can revolutionize this space, enabling more efficient expansion across platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and retail. As the market becomes increasingly complex, Anthony stresses the need for sellers to adopt sophisticated systems and processes to maintain a competitive edge. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic nature of e-commerce and the pivotal role of execution in achieving business success.

In episode 470 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Anthony discuss:

• 00:00 - From Graphics to Data
• 02:07 - Business Partnership in the Philippines
• 08:39 - A/B Testing Discoveries and Results
• 17:11 - Using PickFu for Faster Market Research
• 20:16 - Optimizing Image Order for Conversions
• 22:18 - The Changing Landscape of Amazon Selling
• 27:19 - Maximizing Execution for Business Growth
• 35:46 - Future of Amazon Business Analytics, Execution, and Education
• 44:46 - Future of Consumer Spending and AI

Norm Farrar returns to reveal how sellers win in 2025: AI + AEO, authority building, influencer do’s/don’ts, email that prints money, and why events & cigars power real networking.

Join us for an engaging discussion as we welcome back Norm Farrar, the first-ever repeat guest on the AM/PM podcast under Kevin King. Norm shares his fascinating journey into the world of influencer marketing, shedding light on the hard work and strategic workflows that come with it. He opens up about the challenges he faced in tracking commissions and the newfound respect he gained for content creators. We also explore how Norm's innovative use of technology, like Zapier, helped streamline the process of creating engaging content, from scripting to filming, providing valuable insights for aspiring influencers and marketers alike.

As the conversation unfolds, we dive into the cultural significance of cigar smoking as a communal activity. Norm shares personal experiences from cigar lounges, highlighting how they serve as unique environments for stress relief, networking, and building friendships across diverse backgrounds. We reflect on numerous occasions where cigars have facilitated connections at various events, including Amazon gatherings, fostering an inclusive "brotherhood" or "sisterhood" for all participants. Upcoming events, such as the one planned in Tampa, are mentioned as further opportunities to strengthen these connections.

Additionally, the episode explores the evolving landscape of e-commerce and retail, emphasizing the importance of being an early adopter and maintaining a strong omni-channel presence. We discuss the opportunities beyond Amazon, including platforms like Walmart and TikTok shops, and the critical role of brand perception and packaging when transitioning to retail. Listen in as we highlight the enduring power of email marketing, debunking myths about its obsolescence and showcasing the strategic use of AI to enhance targeting and personalization. Whether you're an aspiring influencer, an e-commerce professional, or simply curious about the future of marketing, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.

In episode 469 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Norm discuss:

• 00:00 - Influencer Marketing and AI Workflow
• 08:35 - Product Promotion Success Story
• 12:16 - The Bonding Power of Cigars
• 16:46 - Amazon Networking Events and Bondings
• 21:10 - Networking Events and Industry Education
• 24:17 - Networking and Education in Amazon
• 30:19 - Utilizing Customer Questions for Marketing
• 32:22 - The Future of E-Commerce and Retail
• 40:35 - Maximizing Email Marketing Impact
• 41:42 - The Power of Email Newsletters
• 48:03 - Email Marketing and AI Optimization
• 50:46 - Generational Shift in Consumer Preferences
• 53:43 - Marketing Misfits Podcast

Learn how e-commerce sellers can scale beyond Amazon and into retail. In this episode, our guest shares insider steps to go retail-ready and build a brand that truly lasts.

What if the key to transforming your e-commerce brand into a retail powerhouse lies in understanding the nuances of today’s retail landscape? Join us for an insightful conversation with Yohan Jacob from Retail Bound as we challenge common misconceptions Amazon sellers hold about retail. Discover how the post-COVID-19 era has created opportunities for online brands to thrive in physical spaces, with retailers integrating enhanced online experiences and buy online, pick up in-store models. We'll uncover the strategies behind pricing consistency across platforms and how a strong online presence can serve as a stepping stone to retail success.

Ready to master the marathon that is retail success? We dive deep into the transition from crowdfunding to the big leagues of traditional retail, revealing the strategic planning needed for product packaging, pricing, and marketing in environments like Best Buy, Walmart, and Costco. Through Yohan's expert lens, learn about the importance of understanding margins, price points, and product derivatives, and how these factors can be leveraged to thrive amidst fierce competition. Hear real-world examples of how brands have navigated these challenges, ensuring their place on the shelves of major retailers.

But the path to retail success isn't just about getting onto the shelves; it's about staying there. We tackle the financial intricacies of working with large retailers, from managing extended payment terms to financing purchase orders. Yohan shares valuable insights into the unique world of platforms like QVC and HSN, where product demonstrations are key. Plus, discover practical advice on breaking into the market through smaller channels, honing your craft before taking on the giants. Whether you're an e-commerce seller ready to expand or an Amazon aficionado eager for new opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and expert advice to elevate your retail game.

In episode 468 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Yohan discuss:

• 00:00 - Navigating Retail for E-Commerce Sellers
• 04:37 - Changing Attitudes Towards Online Retailers
• 07:57 - Challenges of Crowdsourced Product Manufacturing
• 09:42 - Navigating Retail Margins and Strategies
• 13:45 - Retail Pricing Strategies and Brand Derivatives
• 18:01 - Preparing for Retail Success
• 24:05 - Understanding Retail Economics and Margins
• 27:46 - Consumer Electronics Profit Margins and Costs
• 30:23 - Retailers' Margin and Product Strategy
• 37:50 - Handling Retail Transitions and Liquidation
• 42:03 - Exit Strategy for Seasonal Products
• 42:32 - Navigating Retail Payment Terms and Strategies
• 48:31 - Retail Financing and Distribution Strategies
• 54:51 - Exploring Trade Shows for Business Growth
• 58:11 - Utilizing Brand Exposure for Retail Expansion
• 1:02:09 - Retail Growth Strategies for E-Commerce

This week, we dive into Amazon product video production, exploring how AI is reshaping e-commerce videos, boosting response rates, and keeping customers engaged.

Rob Wiltsey, founder of VideoFresh, takes us on an engaging journey from his high school days as a video enthusiast to leading a top-tier company that revolutionizes video production for e-commerce. He shares how VideoFresh ingeniously combines the artistry of video with the structured efficiency of lean manufacturing principles, a synergy that has transformed how Amazon sellers and e-commerce platforms utilize video content. Rob’s approach not only optimizes production efficiency but also offers cost-effective solutions that don't compromise on quality, an aspect that has positioned Video Fresh as a leader in the field.

As we explore the multifaceted e-commerce marketing funnel, Rob and I discuss how strategic video content plays a vital role at each stage. From creating emotional connections with top-of-funnel content to crafting tactical videos for deeper engagement, Rob emphasizes the diverse video types essential for different marketing objectives. We touch upon the significance of cost-effective strategies such as batching product shoots and choosing the right video format—whether for branding, direct responses, or educational purposes—to align with specific goals. Personal anecdotes enrich our conversation, illustrating how VideoFresh's creative strategies are applied in real-world scenarios.

The discussion also ventures into the future, examining the intersection of AI and video production. Rob shares insights on how AI is currently enhancing creativity and efficiency without replacing the invaluable human touch in video production. He describes the exciting potential of AI to revolutionize how brands test and create content, while cautioning against the risk of AI-produced work becoming lackluster if not strategically managed. By balancing the technological advancements of AI with human expertise, Rob paints a picture of a vibrant future for video content strategy, one that e-commerce sellers can leverage to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In episode 467 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Rob discuss:

• 00:00 - Video Production for E-Commerce Sellers
• 07:28 - The Power of Video Marketing
• 08:56 - Video Production Strategies for E-Commerce
• 13:39 - Creating Effective Video Content Strategy
• 19:14 - Video Strategies for Shopify vs Amazon
• 25:29 - Optimizing Testimonial and VSL Videos
• 30:08 - Effective Testimonial Video Creation Tips
• 34:41 - Amazon Video Production Process Overview
• 37:35 - Optimizing Video Production for E-Commerce
• 39:07 - Video Content Planning and Scripting Process
• 46:32 - Clarity in Visual Content for AI
• 49:17 - The Future of AI Video Production
• 51:04 - Rising Interest in Generative AI Videos
• 55:38 - Embracing AI Technology in Videos
• 58:13 - AI Advantages in Video Marketing
• 1:06:01 - Innovative Motion Capture Workflows

In this episode, our guest discussed why retail still outpaces e-commerce 4X. Learn how Amazon-proven brands land on Costco, Target, & Walmart shelves with his insider playbook.

What if your online brand could conquer the retail world, just like it did on Amazon? Join us as we chat with Doug Harding, an expert in navigating the complex transition from online selling to retail dominance. Doug shares invaluable insights into why retail remains a powerhouse, accounting for about 80% of US sales, and how online successes can pave the way for tangible, store-shelf victories. From strategic placement in major retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Target to the essential role of branding and social media in capturing buyer attention, this episode is packed with actionable advice for Amazon sellers ready to make the leap.

We unpack the challenges of retail distribution and explore the sophisticated logistics behind ensuring your product stands out in stores. Doug explains how refining packaging and leveraging distribution partners can smooth the path from online clicks to retail checkout aisles. Discover the financial strategies that can support this shift, including creative financing options like private equity and factoring, which have helped brands like Bertello pizza ovens expand from a Shark Tank pitch to a household name in major retail chains.

For those contemplating retail expansion, we highlight the potential for impressive sales growth and the unique considerations of wholesale cost structures. Our discussion covers the nuances of retail pricing and profit margins, emphasizing the importance of maintaining brand integrity while negotiating store placements. As we explore the opportunities and strategies for retail growth, you'll gain fresh perspectives on why retail is far from dead and how it can be a robust avenue for your business's future success. Tune in for a wealth of wisdom on harnessing retail opportunities and nurturing sustainable business growth.

In episode 466 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Doug discuss:

• 00:00 - The Power of Retail Expansion for Amazon Sellers
• 04:30 - Changing Perspectives on Online Retail
• 07:26 - Navigating Retail Distribution Challenges
• 15:45 - Retail Pull Strategy Implementation Guidance
• 17:13 - Maximizing Retail Placement and Distribution
• 20:56 - Understanding Retail Shelf Placement Strategy
• 24:55 - Packaging Strategies for Retail Success
• 31:15 - Retail Logistics and Distribution Challenges
• 37:17 - Subscription Fees and Dominant Retailers
• 40:50 - Retail Product Launch and Distribution
• 42:54 - Shark Tank Product Success Story
• 50:23 - Retail Margin and Cost Structure
• 57:42 - Margin Analysis in Retail Sales
• 1:01:16 - Challenges of Online Advertising
• 1:03:50 - Exploring Retail Opportunities for Growth