Honest Ecommerce

CEO and Creative Director at SeaMonster Studios, Wes Buckwalter manages a small team of geniuses, keeps them paid, and fights for their rights as employees of what he hopes is the best job they've ever had. He advocates for the creativity of my employees and contractors, managing day to day operations, finance, and client relations. SeaMonster Studios have delivered over 1500 websites to clients over the last 18 years. They are a proud Shopify Plus partner and have become a top-tier partner with several app developers within the Shopify ecosystem.Wes started out in the trenches, designing and building websites before a small screen had ever been considered and have continued to champion and pioneer skills in the web and ecommerce fields that gave him a start in this industry.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:49] Intro[01:50] From early ecommerce venture to a thriving agency[03:19] Navigating the gray areas of ADA & WCAG guidelines[04:48] Balancing site compliance with brand aesthetics[06:06] Compliance as a continuous improvement process[08:08] Accessibility from different user perspectives[09:28] Starting accessibility with thorough site reviews[10:05] Preventing lawsuits with digital accessibility[11:25] Improving awareness on accessibility issues[12:19] Directing legal threats to small Ecommerce sites[14:02] The financial dynamics behind lawsuits[15:29] Parallels between tech fixes & construction audits[16:21] Addressing agency flaws by reviewing past work[17:14] Understanding varying WCAG compliance across states[18:34] Balancing agency & business’ responsibility[19:47] Exploring limitations in automated accessibility [21:01] Managing compliance when stacking Shopify apps[22:07] Shopify's limits on compliance control[23:56] Using Shopify's flexibility while avoiding pitfalls[25:39] Combining AI tools and human testing for site fixes[27:26] Accessible Web for efficient compliance scanning[28:39] Restraints in plug-and-play accessibility tools[29:25] Critiquing overlay tools for accessibility issues[30:33] Image descriptions for better user navigation[31:56] Setting standards for product compliance & SEO[33:22] Free site review from SeaMonster StudiosResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeFriendly, full-service digital agency offering data-driven strategy and development seamonsterstudios.com/Follow Wes Buckwalter linkedin.com/in/seamonsterwes/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Erin is the VP of Business Development at August, where she manages their retail, e-commerce, and B2B sales channels. Prior to August she consulted with Deloitte at companies such as Twitter, Fitbit, and Silicon Valley Bank. Later joining Uber, Erin worked in growth and operational roles for four years, helping UberEats expand from 10 to over 600 cities. She made the jump to August in April of 2022 when she was inspired by August’s mission. In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:46] Intro[01:22] Finding and growing your audience before launching[03:40] Balancing edutainment and medical accuracy online[04:59] Using audience feedback as product validation[06:01] Championing sustainability with product quality[07:11] Acting on feedback to improve product design[08:07] Launching D2C with organic online momentum[09:26] Tapping into trends for impactful product drops[10:17] Defining relationships with customers and fans[11:14] Building trust through 10,000 baby steps online[12:45] Episode sponsors[15:57] Balancing profit and impact in brand decisions[17:28] Addressing tampon tax through collective effort[18:41] Communicating carefully and honestly[19:52] Staying transparent to avoid fear mongering[21:51] August: Fight period stigma with sustainable products Resources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePeriod care brand on a mission to fight period stigma itsaugust.co/Follow Erin Burk linkedin.com/in/erineburk/Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Kristen Pumphrey & Thomas Neuberger are the co-owners of California-based fragrance brand, P.F. Candle Co. and authors of “At Home with Fragrance.” Now a 63-person company, P.F. Candle Co. started as a one-woman Etsy shop in 2008 out of Kristen’s second bedroom. As fragrance experts, Kristen and Tom have scaled the business over the course of several years on their own with no formal business degree - DIY is at the core of everything they do. Today, products are sold in thousands of stores worldwide and their two brick and mortar stores in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Despite the company’s growth, P.F. Candle Co. still proudly makes their products in-house, pouring up to 3,500 candles a day all while modernizing the craft of candle making.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:45] Intro[01:32] From job loss to a creative business venture[02:45] Starting and finding success on Etsy[04:23] Switching platforms for cost savings[05:33] Scaling beyond Etsy artisan qualifications[06:10] Figuring out what’s worth the purchase cost[07:12] Outgrowing Squarespace’s limited customization[07:44] Leveraging social media to drive website traffic[09:15] Gaining online traction via retail partnerships[09:59] Episode sponsors[13:11] Managing sales mix changes during pandemic[13:56] A pro tip for women in business[14:58] From self-management to leading teams[16:49] Setting yourself apart to create business value[17:51] Finding motivation from team successes and growth[18:40] Preparing for competitive Ecommerce sales[20:20] Planning inventory for Black Friday, Cyber Monday[21:45] Evolving strategies from $1 million to $10 million[23:26] Prioritizing meaningful work over numbers[25:04] Face business challenges with creative fulfillment[26:09] Defining future goals for products and company[27:13] Get your scented soy candles at P.F. Candle Co.Resources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeFollow Kristen Pumphrey linkedin.com/in/kristenpumphrey/Follow Thomas Neuberger linkedin.com/in/thomas-neuberger-6180b5113/Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Chris Timmer is the Chief Executive Officer of Linnworks. As a respected CEO and industry veteran, Chris brings three decades of leadership experience spanning sales, marketing and operations in supply chain management and software. He is responsible for leading the company’s overall operations, with direct oversight of sales, marketing, professional services, research, development and strategy.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:53] Intro[01:40] Understanding backend commerce operations[02:43] Leveraging Linnworks for marketplace connections[03:44] Integrating business processes with marketplaces[04:12] Tapping into multi-channel growth opportunities[06:13] Adapting strategies to business size and growth[07:43] Exploring MVPs on established marketplaces[08:56] Understanding customer personas through Amazon[10:17] Evolving with customers as they scale globally[11:32] Building a recognizable brand from ecommerce roots[12:23] Managing costs & scaling with automated solutions[14:02] From manual processes to scalable systems[15:07] Simplifying multi-marketplace management processes[16:07] Suggesting optimal marketplaces through analytics[16:45] Managing inventory with legal pads vs. software[18:26] Balancing vision with practical financial tracking[19:45] Customer relationships as part of brand ethos[21:03] Monitoring shifting customer buying experiences[22:26] Explore Linnworks with a demo requestResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeOptimizing how Ecommerce works linnworks.com/Follow Chris Timmer linkedin.com/in/chris-timmer-019996/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Shawn brings over ten years of fashion retail experience to the table. He is the Co-Founder of Electric Eye–our Shopify design and development agency, and a Partner at Feel–a brand studio where art meets commerce.A specialist in design, Shawn has worked with the likes of Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap Inc, Nike, Homage and Only NY. His time in the retail industry, from digital experience to product design, has exposed him to many facets within the business. This has given him an undeniable ability to identify his clients’ needs; guaranteed to provide a unique experience and to deliver increased engagement across all channels of your business.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:44] Intro[01:07] Overseeing design and development excellence[02:01] Prioritize impactful changes before Black Friday[04:07] Avoid site relaunch from hurting holiday sales[05:26] Straightforward discounts for holiday sales[06:33] Maintain clarity with daily Black Friday deals[07:19] Optimize gift cards for efficient holiday gifting[09:00] Offer direct gift sending for Q4 sales[10:41] Use data to craft effective product bundles[13:31] Create custom landing pages for holiday marketing[15:33] AIDA formula for landing page optimization[17:10] Episode Sponsors[20:23] Boosting revenue with upsells and cross-sells[22:14] Avoid overkill with subtle upsell placements[23:22] Strategize pre and post-purchase upsells effectively[25:05] Maximizing upsell tools within your theme[25:43] Implement app-based discounts for big sales[26:24] Refine image optimization and code efficiency[28:35] Improve mobile navigation and usability [31:00] Gaining insights from real users' interactions[32:47] Optimize sales with early split tests and feedback[34:24] Confirm remarketing pixels and data flow[35:22] Electric Eye’s expertise for Black Friday prepResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeShopify expert design and development agency electriceye.io/A brand studio where art meets commerce feel.studio/Follow Shawn Khemsurov linkedin.com/in/shawnkhemsurov/Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.comIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Rob Schutz is the founder of Snagged, where he helps entrepreneurs, startups and established businesses acquire premium domain names. Rob is also co-founder of Ro, the DTC health platform, and employee #7 + former VP of Growth at Bark, where he helped grow the company from $0 to a $100M in run rate. He started his career in healthcare consulting, helping hospitals transition to digital EMRs. Rob then started a daily deal company called What’s the Deal that he sold to kgb, where he transitioned to his career in marketing and user acquisition. To date, Rob has snagged domains for Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, Lyft co-founder John Zimmer, Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan, ex-Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal, Pinterest co-founder Ben Silberman, Capser co-founder Philip Krim, and many more.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:49] Intro[01:38] Pivoting from healthcare tech to digital marketing[02:33] Entering growth marketing with Bark in 2012[03:13] Navigating early paid search and social channels[04:03] Learning from early Facebook ad strategy mistakes[04:45] Tapping into Instagram communities for traction[05:33] Priorities that led to a new startup journey[06:23] Meeting co-founders with complementary skills[07:57] Starting Ro with a mission to break taboos[09:42] Adapting proven strategies to new health market[11:04] Overcoming hurdles with Google & Meta ad policies[12:37] Balancing confidence with product market challenges[13:54] Episode sponsors[17:07] Overcoming privacy policies in healthcare startups[19:23] Transitioning to domain expertise with Snagged[21:52] Establishing trust with high-value domain names[22:51] Balancing domain costs with business stage[24:03] Flexible domain deal structures and outcomes[26:14] Creative domain acquisition strategies with RobResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeIndustry leading domain services snagged.com/Follow Rob Schutz linkedin.com/in/robschutz/Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Nikita Vakhrushev has spent the last 7 years immersed in the digital marketing world. After starting his own ecom brand and quickly pivoting into the agency model, he found his place in ecommerce advertising services. After amassing all the marketing skills needed to scale brands, he found great success in email and SMS marketing, which is what he specializes in today! Now after working with over 100+ DTC brands, having the knowledge behind all marketing channels, but sticking with email as his bread and butter, Nikita has a unique perspective on how to get the most out of a brand's retention channels.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:41] Intro[01:12] Transitioning from retail to agency building[02:49] Transforming solutions into paid expertise[03:27] Learning vs paying to get things done[04:26] Implementing DKIM & DMARC for email security[06:01] Maintaining deliverability with record updates[06:51] Steep learning curves in email configuration[08:04] Navigating DNS zone editor for email verification[09:47] Understanding dynamic and static domain settings[10:51] Navigating edge cases in complex DNS setups[11:46] Creating DMARC records for Shopify and Klaviyo[13:15] Adding DMARC & DKIM to improve email reach[15:07] Suppressing email addresses for better deliverability[17:54] Remove unengaged emails for domain reputation[19:11] Implementing effective list cleaning strategies[20:10] Focusing on email & SMS services across platforms[21:30] Signs you need to seek email marketing help[22:43] ASPEKT: Free audit for your email strategy[23:42] Keep track of your email open rates consistentlyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeEmail marketing agency for Ecom and DTC brands aspektagency.com/Secure your domain dmarcian.com/ Follow Nikita Vakhrushev linkedin.com/in/nikita-v/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Kris Kaiser and Stephen McCaul met at a pub in Santa Monica, California, and hit it off immediately. A shared interest in sound brought them together. Kris and Stephen's professional paths were quite different, but audio was a common thread throughout their lives. Kris's PhD dissertation studied the effects of urban noise on the breeding behaviors of frogs. Stephen developed audio software for video games. Both shared a love for spreadsheets, food, and the glorious sound and invitingly impenetrable interface of the Yamaha DX7 synthesizer. A few years later, Kris was a professor and Stephen worked on increasingly complex audio problems in his day job. As an escape, they began experimenting with home-built synthesizers and wild DIY noisemakers. Stephen developed a Eurorack module over a weekend after a dare from a friend, and the synth community took notice. That was the beginning, and in 2016 they quit their jobs and took Noise Engineering full time. Now a staple boutique developer, their hardware and software products are used and adored by hobbyists, composers, artists, and producers around the world. In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:59] Intro[01:26] A hobby into a full-time endeavor[02:18] Turning hackathon ideas into tangible products[03:26] Navigating the challenges of early manufacturing[04:25] Finding solutions through industry connections[06:13] Collaborating within a niche community[07:42] Gaining traction using marketing platforms[09:50] Episode sponsors[13:04] Balancing quality & price in a competitive market[15:35] Attracting early customers through trade shows[17:06] Educational content as top-of-funnel strategy[18:05] Connecting with people via face-to-face outreach[19:29] Tapping into LA's vibrant music community[20:00] Showing prototypes & gathering real-time feedback[21:50] Attending trade shows for customer interactions[22:33] Finding success with in-depth blog content[24:54] Expanding into software for flexible compositions[26:45] Developing innovative guitar products[27:53] High-quality instruments at Noise EngineeringResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeBoutique musical instrument firm dedicated to making tools for any artist https://noiseengineering.us/Follow Stephen McCaullinkedin.com/in/stephen-mccaul-10842b1/Follow Kris Kaiser linkedin.com/in/kris-kaiser-77b345203/Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Johnny Russo has over 17 years of Digital Marketing, Ecommerce, and Brand experience. He is the Chief Digital and Marketing Officer at Lamour, where he leads the Direct to Consumer division for 4 Ecommerce brands and numerous Ecommerce sites. He also handles marketing for over 20 licenses. Previous to Lamour, Johnny was at The Kersheh Group as the Vice President of Ecommerce and Marketing, and also spent time with Mark’s/Canadian Tire as AVP of Ecommerce and Digital Marketing. He has also worked at multi-channel retailers like Buffalo Jeans, Bentley, and globally for Mexx. Johnny is a published author. His book, Mastering Mindful Leadership: 105 Ways to Become the Leader Your Employees Need You to Be, was published in October 2022.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:40] Intro[01:48] Embracing digital change in a family business[02:29] Career shifts: From writing to marketing[03:45] Finding inspiration in Guerilla Marketing[05:00] Guerrilla Marketing: Action Over Talk[06:45] Learning from different companies & managers[08:15] Embracing larger brand challenges[09:06] Scaling career with strategic insights[09:52] Restructuring digital marketing channels[11:31] Planning incremental improvements[12:33] Strategizing flexible team dynamics[13:57] Adjusting strategies based on KPIs[15:15] Episode sponsors[18:27] Navigating brand storytelling challenges[20:02] Adapting to evolving demographics and interests[21:11] Experiencing success after strategic efforts[22:12] Inspired to write a leadership playbook[24:46] Addressing real-life leadership challenges[26:04] Transforming leadership through practical insights[27:15] Navigating talent retention & employee loyalty[28:16] Adapting to shifting fulfillment strategies[29:34] Evaluating revenue vs digital marketing metrics[30:48] Dealing with turnover & keeping a positive attitude[33:08] Making personal development a priority[34:05] Get in touch with Johnny RussoResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeChoice for hosiery, intimates, and apparels lamour.com/en.htmlThe Original Padded Sock thorlo.com/Follow Johnny Russo linkedin.com/in/johnnyrusso/Mastering Mindful Leadership: 105 Ways to Become the Leader Your Employees Need You to Be amazon.com/Mastering-Mindful-Leadership-Become-Employees/dp/1988058848Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Bob DeMars is the founder of Blind Barrels, a blind whiskey tasting subscription disrupting the industry’s current distribution model by showcasing American craft distilleries, ones which rarely get the shelf space they deserve. The recent quarantine brought about blind whiskey tastings with friends, and DeMars saw an opportunity for a startup unlike any other in the alcohol industry. These blind tastings are all about discovery, education, removing brand bias, and, of course, supporting smaller distillers that are making some amazing handmade products. Each quarter, subscribers get to test their senses by tasting and discovering hard-to-try-or-find craft whiskey brands - ones that deserve to be discovered.In This Conversation We Discuss:[01:17] Intro[02:16] Understanding the appeal of whiskey samples[03:12] Exploring the stages of whiskey tasting[05:13] Navigating the three-tier system regulations[06:49] Raising funds through friends and family [07:49] Handling startup stress and responsibility[09:00] Leveraging influencer partnerships effectively[10:46] Learning PR pitfalls and self-promotion[12:08] Launching the business & attracting subscribers[13:23] Overcoming initial tech hurdles[14:20] Learning the tasks before delegating[16:28] Multi-channel touches for brand conversion[18:08] Episode sponsors[21:21] Focusing on qualified traffic before CRO efforts[22:19] Avoiding affiliate fees with strategic gift codes[23:27] Unexplained SEO boosts in industry niches[24:34] Micro influencers for brand saturation & sales[25:36] Evaluating micro influencers by genuine engagement[27:38] Managing inquiries directly for brand credibility[28:28] Creating connections with whiskey box shipments[29:20] Hosting events with interactive whiskey giveaways[31:30] Finding joy in simple whiskey moments [32:02] Discover Blind Barrels & support local distillers[33:18] Balancing sales with community building online[34:01] Keeping investor energy through consistent updates[35:47] Valuing hard lessons during difficult timesResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeBlind whiskey tasting subscription blindbarrels.com/Follow Bob DeMars linkedin.com/in/bob-demars-975bba5Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Adam is the founder and CTO of Intelligems, a profit optimization engine for ecommerce brands. He and Drew Marconi started Intelligems 3 years ago after spending 4 years building dynamic pricing in the ride sharing industry in order to bring that level of sophistication around pricing and economics to DTC ecommerce. Intelligems today enables brands to A/B test content, pages, discounts, shipping fees, and prices on their storefronts. It also enable brands to build tailored experiences and personalizations informed by the learnings of those tests.In This Conversation We Discuss: [01:12] Intro[02:04] Transitioning from ridesharing to Ecommerce[03:09] Testing product prices for big impact[04:41] Benefiting from Google's unexpected move[05:44] Gaining traction with early adopters[06:44] Clarifying CRO basics and misconceptions[08:04] Balancing conversion rate and AOV[10:04] Adopting a testing mindset[11:56] Exploring test win rates and client mindset[13:45] Iterating quickly after test failures[14:36] Trusting data over intuition[15:55] Embracing non-winning test results[16:33] Assessing business lifecycle impact[17:10] Balancing orders with profit margins[19:18] Understanding statistical significance basics[21:04] Evaluating probabilities in test outcomes[22:23] Considering risks in statistical test outcomes[23:16] Moving on when tests reach clear results[24:52] Balancing creativity and analytics in a CRO[25:44] Psychological insights to optimize conversions[27:24] Leveraging psychology in Ecommerce strategies[28:18] Consumer behavior with key readings[29:04] Testing price strategies for bigger impact[30:24] Integrating brand education into conversion tactics[31:50] Optimizing landing pages for high traffic[33:20] Prioritizing first impressions on landing pages[34:06] Running advanced tests with IntelligemsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePrice A/B testing for Ecommerce intelligems.io/Follow Adam Kitain linkedin.com/in/adamkitain/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Adam is the founder and CTO of Intelligems, a profit optimization engine for ecommerce brands. He and Drew Marconi started Intelligems 3 years ago after spending 4 years building dynamic pricing in the ride sharing industry in order to bring that level of sophistication around pricing and economics to DTC ecommerce. Intelligems today enables brands to A/B test content, pages, discounts, shipping fees, and prices on their storefronts. It also enable brands to build tailored experiences and personalizations informed by the learnings of those tests.In This Conversation We Discuss: [01:12] Intro[02:04] Transitioning from ridesharing to Ecommerce[03:09] Testing product prices for big impact[04:41] Benefiting from Google's unexpected move[05:44] Gaining traction with early adopters[06:44] Clarifying CRO basics and misconceptions[08:04] Balancing conversion rate and AOV[10:04] Adopting a testing mindset[11:56] Exploring test win rates and client mindset[13:45] Iterating quickly after test failures[14:36] Trusting data over intuition[15:55] Embracing non-winning test results[16:33] Assessing business lifecycle impact[17:10] Balancing orders with profit margins[19:18] Understanding statistical significance basics[21:04] Evaluating probabilities in test outcomes[22:23] Considering risks in statistical test outcomes[23:16] Moving on when tests reach clear results[24:52] Balancing creativity and analytics in a CRO[25:44] Psychological insights to optimize conversions[27:24] Leveraging psychology in Ecommerce strategies[28:18] Consumer behavior with key readings[29:04] Testing price strategies for bigger impact[30:24] Integrating brand education into conversion tactics[31:50] Optimizing landing pages for high traffic[33:20] Prioritizing first impressions on landing pages[34:06] Running advanced tests with IntelligemsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePrice A/B testing for Ecommerce intelligems.io/Follow Adam Kitain linkedin.com/in/adamkitain/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Tanya Mykhaylova is the Director of E-Commerce at Casa Di Luce, a premier designer lighting and home decor brand based in Toronto, Canada. For two decades, Casa Di Luce has been a cornerstone of Toronto's design scene, embodying family values and entrepreneurial spirit. Operating multiple showrooms throughout the city, the company eventually established a firm presence in Toronto's design district by inaugurating a spacious flagship showroom. Five years ago, Tanya made the decision to leave her corporate consulting job and join Casa Di Luce full-time, driven by a desire to leverage her expertise and propel her family business into the digital age. Tanya has adeptly stayed ahead of the latest e-commerce trends, guiding Casa Di Luce through the dynamic online marketplace to sustain growth and expansion. Today, the company carries over 200 brands and ships to customers across North America.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:51] Intro[01:27] Operating a managed marketplace[02:18] Joining the family business strategically[03:34] Gaining helpful skills for website development[04:30] Transforming outdated ecommerce platform[05:57] Handling ecomm migration during covid boom[07:36] Learning from UX: failing fast and iterating[09:47] Overcoming setbacks for future growth[10:49] Episode sponsors[14:01] Avoiding unnecessary custom solutions[16:04] Growing pains of increased online presence[17:51] Building custom features based on feedback[19:11] Refining site navigation through feedback[21:06] Outpacing competitors through agile innovation[22:25] Pioneering untested innovations in industry[23:38] Challenging client beliefs with data[24:23] Taking action and testing ideas in real-time[25:19] Get your modern and design lighting at Casa Di LuceResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeModern lighting and design lighting Canada www.casadiluce.ca/Follow Tanya Mykhaylova linkedin.com/in/tanyamykhaylova/Book a demo today at intelligems.io/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

As an outdoor industry leader for nearly 30 years, Gordon has committed his career to building brands that practice a triple bottom line (people, planet and profit) approach to business.Gordon launched Toad&Co, a responsible lifestyle apparel brand in 1996. Now headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA, he remains the CEO of the growing global brand. He also co-founded Planet Access 27 years ago, a social enterprise committed to providing life skills, vocational training and travel experiences for people with disabilities. Gordon spent 17 years on the Outdoor Industry Association Board including a 6-year stint as Chairman and Vice Chairman. He is currently a Board member for the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund, the Santa Barbara Film Festival and Chairs the advisory board of the Eco-Entrepreneurship Advisory Council at the Bren School Environmental Solutions graduate program at UCSB. He also serves as advisor to several early-stage responsible business start-ups. He received a BA in Psychology from Hamilton College and an MBA in Entrepreneurial Management from Wharton School of Business. Married with two 20 something daughters, between family and work Gordon enjoys just about anything the outdoors has to offer, especially if it is in the ocean, on a river or in the mountains near his family cabin in June Lake in the Eastern Sierras. Travel, film and birds are some of his other passions.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:46] Intro[01:58] Thriving with responsible consumers[03:47] Handling first collection without ecommerce in '96[05:08] Pivoting business strategy after 9/11 crisis[06:25] Building best in class before expanding[08:34] Balancing retail and ecommerce strategies[10:08] Promoting brand awareness through various channels[12:26] Adapting brand for Gen Z and millennials[13:59] StoreTester: done-for-you conversion rate optimization[15:16] learning from fast-changing Ecommerce trends[17:36] Adapting to changing buyer behavior[19:18] Managing evolving market dynamics[20:43] Aiming for lasting positive impact[22:16] Inspiring ethical entrepreneurship[24:04] Authenticity in brand commitment[25:29] Staying committed to your passion[26:27] Balancing gut feeling and analytics in business[27:30] Surviving and thriving in niches[28:11] Sustainable, organic, & eco-friendly clothingResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeSustainable, organic, & eco-friendly clothing toadandco.com/Follow Gordon Seabury linkedin.com/in/gordon-seabury-3597a03/Done-for-you conversion rate optimization service storetester.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Josh Hadley is not just the founder and CEO of an eight-figure e-commerce brand; he is also a leading voice in the e-commerce space as the host of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast. His professional journey took off at American Airlines' Leadership Development Program, fresh from earning an MBA from the University of Utah. While maintaining his corporate career, Josh and his wife co-founded a custom wedding invitation business, leveraging their unique skill sets in the evenings. Recognizing an opportunity in the Amazon marketplace, they strategically pivoted their venture to create a stationery empire, growing their portfolio to over 1,300 products. Josh relishes the rewarding challenge of balancing business growth with family life in Dallas Texas. Raising three children while building a successful venture with his wife, he exemplifies the possibility of harmonizing personal fulfillment with professional success.In This Conversation We Discuss: [01:10] Discussing actionable ecommerce strategies[02:18] Reflecting on early entrepreneurial spirit[03:15] Inspiring innovative business ideas in college[03:48] Transforming a hobby into a thriving business[04:58] Experimenting with early Facebook Ads[05:33] Confronting scalability challenges[07:00] Adapting and evolving in Amazon[08:17] Developing entrepreneurial intuition[10:11] Advantages of using Amazon[11:55] Cons of Amazon[12:41] Navigating rising Amazon fees[14:04] Understanding revenue dynamics on Amazon[15:27] Leveraging Amazon's logistics efficiency[16:01] Testing product ideas on Amazon[18:06] Strategizing growth with proven Amazon products[18:42] Balancing Amazon and off-platform strategies[21:28] Tracking multi-channel ad performance[23:43] Active management in Amazon business[25:09] Learning tips from Amazon gurus[26:48] Testing on Amazon: fast and cost-effective[29:09] Quickly assessing success with Amazon data[29:48] Unique skill sets of Amazon and Shopify[31:50] Expanding beyond Amazon: preparing for future growth[33:40] Learn more from Josh HadleyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeStrategies to scale to 8 figures and beyond ecommbreakthrough.com/Education, calendar, and reward prints hadleydesigns.com/Follow Josh Hadley linkedin.com/in/joshhadley/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Brandon Blum is the Cofounder and CEO of For Others, a mission-driven lifestyle brand based out of New York City. Before For Others, Brandon spent six all-encompassing years inside the marketing wings of three prodigiously large media companies in New York City. Brandon possesses a blend of experiences spanning branding, marketing, digital, media, content, and publishing. Through his work, Brandon learned how brands - large and small - told their stories and built their brands.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:39] Intro[01:32] Creating a brand with a positive community impact[02:53] Experiencing first sales at a pop-up[04:10] Bootstrapping and soft launching the business[05:30] Launching without overthinking[06:30] Balancing day jobs and side hustle[07:26] Leveraging project management skills[08:36] Recognizing project management as a skill[09:49] Electric Eye: your true Shopify expert[10:46] Discovering opportunities in unexpected places[12:16] Adjusting business projections post-pandemic[14:00] Standing out in a saturated online market[14:58] Transitioning from corporate to startup[16:25] Fulfillment in building a passion-driven career[18:24] The power of networking in business[20:53] Expanding your Luck Surface Area[22:32] Evolving products based on real-world insights[23:38] Luxury accessories and apparel from For OthersResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeA mission-driven lifestyle brand for-others.com/Follow Brandon Blum linkedin.com/in/blumbrandon/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Shawn D. Nelson is the founder and CEO of Lovesac, repeatedly recognized as the fastest growing furniture brand in the US for over a decade. Lovesac is publicly traded on Nasdaq, ticker “LOVE,” and is projected to exceed $1 Billion in annual sales over the next few years leveraging its rapidly growing fleet of more than 270 Lovesac branded retail locations. From humble beginnings, Shawn founded Lovesac in 1998, making Sacs by hand for neighbors and friends while in college. He graduated from the University of Utah in 2001 with a BA in Mandarin Chinese before opening Lovesac’s first retail location in his hometown of Salt Lake City shortly after graduation. In 2005 Shawn won a million-dollar investment from Richard Branson on his prime time hit reality TV show, The Rebel Billionaire, and was named acting President of Virgin Worldwide for a time. Shawn later achieved his Master’s degree in Strategic Design and Management at the world famous Parsons, The New School for Design in New York City and continued on as an instructor there for a few years teaching courses on Sustainable Business Models, Leadership, and Innovation. Shawn now holds over 50 issued patents across multiple product categories with dozens more pending. The majority of Lovesac’s sales today are driven by the ever-expanding product platform called “Sactionals,” the world’s most versatile couch and myriad Sactionals product extensions including embedded technology. Shawn’s recent book, “Let Me Save You 25 Years,” celebrates Lovesac’s colorful history, and the many “mistakes, miracles, and lessons” learned along the way. Shawn lives in St. George, Utah with his wife, Tiffany, and their 4 kids, 2 cats, and 1 crazy dog. In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:42] Intro[01:35] A business idea right at home[03:05] Learning from direct customer feedback[04:13] Taking the last gamble and it worked[06:21] From side hustle to full-time business[07:22] Managing first store and franchising[08:16] Leveraging TV fame for VC investment[09:04] Competing in Branson's reality show[10:12] Staying grounded amidst financial highs and lows[11:00] Electric Eye: your true Shopify expert [11:56] Plan and DO something[13:31] Playing along the journey[15:09] Resilience through COVID and other setbacks[16:47] Patience is key to long-term growth[17:42] Defining your own success and timeline[19:27] Sharing 25 years of mistakes and miracles[21:01] Knowing when to pivot and when to persist[22:53] Thriving in uncertainty as an entrepreneur[24:13] Big outcomes require hard decisions[25:21] Get inspired with Shawn and Lovesac's journeyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeModern couches, sactionals and bean bags lovesac.com/Follow Shawn D. Nelson linkedin.com/in/shawndnelson/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Udayan Bose is the Founder & CEO of NetElixir, has been driving success for retail businesses online for nearly 20 years. With a focus on the digital retail space, NetElixir uses proprietary technology, strategic growth models, and expert campaign management services to deliver exceptional results for their 600+ retail clients worldwide. Udayan's determination has earned NetElixir partnerships with industry leaders like UPS, Google, and Bing. Udayan is also a regular lecturer at top universities and has been featured in prestigious online journals such as The New York Times, Forbes, AdWeek, and more.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:44] Intro[02:01] Recounting early success with first innovation[02:33] The power of the internet through experimentation[03:25] Helping retail Ecommerce brands grow predictably[04:58] Making search work with mathematical precision[06:33] Meeting key players in ecommerce success[07:45] Building strong client partnerships[08:23] Recalling Google's milestone with Google Shopping[09:35] Envisioning the future with generative AI[11:24] Strategizing amid changing data landscapes[12:33] Adapting to the new era of restricted data sharing[13:13] Strategizing with limited data access[14:25] Walled gardens for integrated social commerce[15:49] The era of retail media networks[17:14] Exploring AI's role in future data access[18:11] Preparing for diminished data availability[18:57] Mastering rapid adaptive experimentation[20:15] Leveraging AI for predictive customer insights[21:22] Democratizing SEO and SEM with free tools[23:06] Supporting SMBs with innovative solutions[24:50] Discovering who links to your site[25:35] Humbling moments: OpenAI's impact on tech giants[27:03] The impact of disruptive innovation[28:19] ChatGPT's impact on business strategies[29:49] Crafting effective prompts for ChatGPT[30:34] Leveraging AI skills for competitive advantage[31:31] Navigating the age of abundance with AIResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeEcommerce digital marketing agency in Princeton, New Jersey netelixir.com/Follow Udayan Bose linkedin.com/in/netelixirudayanbose/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Just two weeks after graduating from high school, Nicholas plunged into the vibrant world of television, initiating a career that would meander through the exhilarating realms of entertainment and entrepreneurship. After 7 years in “the business” the transition into married life marked a significant turning point, prompting Nick to navigate towards the startup ecosystem in search of a more balanced schedule. As the third hire at an emerging startup, he was instrumental in expanding the company to a powerhouse of 40 dedicated employees, steering it towards remarkable growth and success. Nick's professional narrative is highlighted by his key role in establishing major partnerships with entertainment juggernauts such as Disney, Paramount, and CBS. Through his expertise in negotiation, innovative merchandising, and strategic market introductions, Nick masterfully brought extensive collections to the forefront of the industry. Currently, Nick is channeling his profound experience in startups to aid The Felina Group in its quest to dominate the direct-to-consumer (DTC) sector. His mission is to fortify customer relationships and spearhead the established B2B company's dive into new, uncharted waters, promising groundbreaking opportunities and growth. When he's not revolutionizing business strategies or leading his team to new heights, Nick cherishes driving through the serene Malibu canyons or sharing the magic of Disneyland with his daughter, finding balance and joy in these precious moments away from the hustle and bustle of work.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:42] Intro[01:33] Shifting from wholesale to direct consumer sales[02:47] Blending direct sales with drop ships[04:03] Starting in the television industry[05:08] Discovering a knack for product development[06:22] Finding a high-growth fit at Felina[07:55] Recognizing smart hiring decisions[09:33] Handling high-pressure situations with ease[10:45] Making choices and failing fast in startups[11:33] Electric Eye: your true Shopify expert[12:30] Cutting unnecessary expenses from P&L[14:22] Implementing immediate impact initiatives[15:55] Optimizing bottom-of-funnel retention[17:45] Navigating internal KPI complexities[19:26] Optimizing retention strategies[20:47] Volatility in paid media performance[22:08] Ecommerce for customer relationship ownership[22:55] Prioritizing organic growth initiatives [24:03] Organic and paid media for scalable growth[25:55] Customer feedback through post-purchase surveys[27:43] Transforming product value into online appeal[29:49] Building brand value beyond price[31:04] Aligning product value and pricing [33:55] Identifying and fixing cracks in the funnel[34:47] Testing and learning from failuresResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeWomen’s loungewear and intimate apparel felina.com/Follow Nicholas Hernandez linkedin.com/in/nicholasfhernandez/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Gabi Saper is a visionary entrepreneur and digital marketing strategist, renowned for co-founding CMY Cubes, a trailblazing STEAM-focused enterprise that has revolutionized learning through interactive and sensory tools. Her strategic acumen and innovative use of digital platforms, especially TikTok, catapulted CMY Cubes into viral success, leading to a remarkable revenue milestone of over $2M annually, a devoted community of 175,000 customers, and a presence in prestigious outlets including MoMA NYC. With a profound commitment to enriching educational experiences, Gabi's leadership has not only propelled CMY Cubes onto the global stage but also established her as a luminary in digital marketing and e-commerce, making her an inspiring figure for entrepreneurs and marketers alike.Enzo Gonzalez, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of CMY Cubes, is at the forefront of revolutionizing STEAM learning. Based in Sydney, Australia, with roots in South Florida, Enzo has propelled CMY Cubes to international acclaim, achieving significant milestones including 175,000+ customers and partnerships with prestigious institutions like MoMA. His journey from engineering to launching over 25 unique products showcases his prowess in product development, manufacturing, and design. Enzo's ability to bring visionary ideas to life, coupled with his expertise in operational efficiency and logistics, has made him an up-and-coming leader in the eCommerce space.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:49] Intro[01:48] Shop Talk: impactful networking moments[03:00] Abstract concepts into hands-on experiences[03:35] Revolutionizing learning through play[04:21] Experiencing the calming effects of CMY Cubes[05:31] Understanding the visual magic of CMY Cubes[06:21] Blending engineering and creativity to innovate[07:29] Discovering and bridging a market gap[08:29] Introducing subtractive color mixing in a new way[09:15] Launching with a basic site[10:27] Managing pre-orders without a product[11:13] Seeking mass manufacturing solutions[11:55] Rebranding and relaunching on Shopify[12:56] Acknowledging ongoing improvements[13:30] Electric Eye: Your true Shopify expert[14:41] Communicating effectively with customers[15:21] Understanding customer patience and demand[16:28] Upholding commitment to fulfillment[16:55] Gaining insight into customer perception[17:40] Overcoming data management challenges[19:27] Preserving momentum through quick action[20:25] Enhancing brand cohesion through rebranding[21:13] Discovering the virality formula[23:00] Mastering Reddit for rapid growth[23:45] Expanding into traditional retail channels[25:07] Reflecting on partnership successes[26:10] Success comes after actually doing something[27:03] Overcoming fear and leveraging resources[27:37] Start small and trust your gut[28:36] Stimulate your mind with CMY CubesResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeUnique range of educational and sensory tools https://asia.cmycubes.com/Follow Gabi Saper linkedin.com/in/gabisaper/Follow Enzo Gonzalez linkedin.com/in/enzogonz/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Amandeep is a seasoned web development expert and entrepreneur with over 14 years of proven success in driving eCommerce innovation. As the founder of BigC Experts and Cronix, he excels in building high-performing teams and delivering complex web projects for businesses of all sizes. Amandeep's expertise spans the entire web development lifecycle, from strategic planning to flawless execution, ensuring client projects consistently exceed expectations. He is a trusted leader with a demonstrated ability to guide both small businesses and Fortune 100 companies through the complexities of the digital landscape.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:46] Intro[01:46] Exploring SaaS trends with BigCommerce[02:40] Providing extensive BigCommerce training[04:13] Expanding the BigCommerce ecosystem[05:07] Understanding B2B functionality differences[06:31] Leveraging built-in tools for additional product costs[07:06] Comparing theme ecosystems: BigCommerce vs. Shopify[08:36] Using premium themes for easy store setup[09:05] Managing ssl and hosting with BigCommerce[10:14] Setting up payment gateways in bigcommerce[11:00] Exploring BigCommerce's default features[12:51] Simplifying tech stacks to save costs[15:34] Simplifying complex e-commerce setups[16:50] Avoiding unnecessary headless solutions[18:32] Manage Ecommerce data efficiently with BigCommerce[19:26] Reducing logins and documentation overhead[20:07] Setting expectations for replatforming projects[20:55] Considering URL strategies in platform selection[22:08] Preventing indexing issues during site migration[23:19] Establishing a comprehensive migration checklist[24:31] Fixing things right the first time[25:03] Challenges with B2B clients and data migration[25:44] Enhancing productivity with useful tools[26:44] Using AI in e-commerce data management[27:50] Automating SEO optimization with AI-powered tools[28:57] AI-driven solutions for B2B product discovery[29:26] A nuanced approach to platform selection[29:59] BigCommerce support and assistance from CronixResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeFull service digital and eCommerce agency cronixweb.com/Find vetted expert BigCommerce developers & consultants bigcexperts.com/Follow Amandeep Singh linkedin.com/in/amandeepsinghvirdi/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Fiona Frills is a 20-year-old beauty, makeup, fashion, lifestyle influencer and entrepreneur. Since launching her YouTube channel at the age of 10, she has amassed a fan base of over 1 Million followers.At the age of 13, Fiona decided to turn her obsession of makeup into a beauty brand and began developing her own makeup line, Frilliance. She personally formulated and designed all the products in the line, which are available in 1000+ Walmart stores and CVS Beauty IRL stores. Online at Frilliance.com, Amazon.com, and in the UK at Superdrug.com.Fiona started her career as a model and actress, appearing on Disney Channel’s GameOn and several national commercials.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:38] Intro[02:16] Improving skincare options for teens[03:13] Loving beauty products since childhood[04:17] Realizing product issues for sensitive skin[04:53] Investing in your own business & advocacy[05:48] Prioritizing natural ingredients and good testing[06:49] Sourcing reliable packaging materials[07:30] leveraging TikTok community for market insights[08:24] Relying on personal promotion initially[09:14] Developing a targeted influencer outreach strategy[09:59] Electric Eye: your true Shopify expert[10:55] Reflecting on early sales success[11:54] Handling large POs for major retailers[12:55] From personal promotion to influencer marketing[14:39] Building close relationships with influencers[15:30] Understanding the challenges of being a teenager[16:11] Navigating the complexities of retail partnerships[17:34] Adapting to specific requirements of retailers[18:19] Embracing continuous learning in entrepreneurship[19:17] Ignore discouragement and believe in yourself[21:29] Amplify your confidence with FrillianceResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeClear, confident skin begins here frilliance.com/Follow Fiona Frills linkedin.com/in/fionafrills/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Ryan C. Johnson is the mastermind behind NewRuleFX. He stands out as a seasoned videographer, filmmaker, and entrepreneur with over three decades of esteemed experience in the media realm. His career is adorned with 18 industry accolades, recognizing his outstanding contributions to TV programs, video productions, commercials, and indie features. Since founding his company in 1991, Ryan has been a dedicated artist, shaping the landscape of TV and video production, showcasing his expertise on national television, in captivating commercials, documentaries, and through corporate and home entertainment ventures. Notably, his creative vision came to life as the Creator, Executive Producer, and Director of the American Dragster TV series on ESPN. NewRuleFX, home to the innovative SMASHProps line of breakaway props, encapsulates Ryan's passion for craftsmanship and innovation. His journey in the TV and film Special Effects industry has seen him construct a plethora of effects and props for many productions. Ryan's workshop is a hub of creativity, where he experiments alongside his team, with an array of materials and techniques to devise the next groundbreaking prop or effect. This commitment to excellence and innovation is reflected in NewRuleFX's dedication to providing high-quality, specialized props that push the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of special effects with an effort towards actor safety.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:50] Intro[01:06] Specializing in safe performance props[02:08] Building a business from childhood passion[03:41] Starting first Ecommerce business: Smash Props[05:13] Attracting early customers through engagement[06:32] Understanding film trends & customer needs[07:22] Testing manufacturing needs for broader business[08:51] Embracing risk after relocation[09:43] Leveraging proximity for credibility[10:37] Scaling the business quickly using Shopify[11:53] Recommending user-friendly Ecommerce solutions[12:28] Electric Eye: Your true Shopify expert[13:25] Simplifying ecommerce with tailored platforms[14:29] Early successes with simple ad strategies[16:35] Continuously working towards success[17:55] Prioritizing safety and functionality [19:03] Becoming a trusted name in prop supplies[20:26] Offering versatile options for stunts[21:30] Specialized performance props at NewRuleFXResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeSpecial effects props supply and breakaways newrulefx.com/Follow Ryan Johnson linkedin.com/in/newrule/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Kevin Lavelle is the CEO and Co-Founder of Harbor. He brings a wealth of experience from his role as the Founder and Chairman of Mizzen+Main, having invented the world’s first performance fabric dress shirt. With a successful growth round raised from L Catterton, partnerships with world-renowned athletes like Phil Mickelson and JJ Watt, and a background in omnichannel retail, Kevin is not only a dedicated entrepreneur but also a loving husband and father of two.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:44] Intro[00:55] Building a secure and reliable baby monitor[02:24] Creating a performance-fabric dress shirt[03:23] Debunking "if you build it, they will come"[04:11] Seeking technology to enhance family life[05:01] The unreliability of phone apps for monitoring[05:54] Striving to improve early parenting years[06:39] Improving novel ideas into successful products[07:16] Validating demand through actual sales efforts[08:48] Generating awareness with creative marketing[09:41] Building customer bonds with thoughtful gestures[10:33] Navigating incorrect assumptions confidently[11:04] Electric Eye: Your true Shopify expert[12:01] Finding customers where they are[12:38] Acknowledging the flaws of initial products[13:14] Valuing friends' early support in business[14:15] Benefits of membership-based relationships[15:57] The cost of building quality products[17:56] Prioritizing innovation and customer experience[18:42] Marketing challenges of one vs. multiple products[19:36] The constant influx of new customers[20:59] The power of parent-to-parent endorsements[22:16] The evolution of influencer marketing[24:53] Engaging with celebrity moms and influencers[25:36] Acknowledging the value of wholesale partners[26:29] Maintaining organic audience engagement[27:37] Cutting through the noise with authentic content[28:45] Connecting with Kevin and HarborResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeReliable baby monitoring system harbor.co/Follow Harbor on socials instagram.com/harborsleep/Follow Kevin Lavelle on LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/kevinlavelle/Follow Kevin Lavelle on X x.com/kevinslavelleSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Dale Bertrand is an SEO and ecommerce expert who leads training and consulting engagements with brands like Citizen Watch, Nestle, XXX. Nowadays, Dale spends his time researching the risks and opportunities posed by Google’s shift to generative AI search. You can follow Dale on LinkedIn and check out his work @fireandspark.com.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:46] Intro[01:28] Focused on SEO Strategy: Fire&Spark's Expertise[03:05] Aligning Objectives with SEO Strategies[03:42] Understanding Search Intent[05:19] Filtering Traffic: Ensuring Quality Over Quantity[07:33] High vs. Low Intent: The Impact on Traffic Quality[08:50] Moving Beyond Standard Blog Posts[10:44] Matching Customer Search Behavior[11:33] Traffic Mismatches: Matching Intent with Content[12:43] Optimizing for Purchase Intent[13:44] Leveraging Google's Topic-Based Authority[14:40] Addressing Low Conversion Pages[15:56] Integrating Add-to-Cart Buttons in Content[17:44] Tailoring CTAs for Different Funnel Levels[19:37] Innovation in Automation & Data Analysis[21:07] Automating Analysis: AI Insights in SEO[22:46] Leveraging Generative AI in SEO Tasks[24:06] Diversifying Platforms: Impact on Product Searches[24:58] Exploring AI-Driven Ideation[25:58] Adapting to Generative Engine Optimization[26:21] Addressing Potential Changes in Search Engines[27:56] Google's Focus on High-Quality Content[29:20] Connect with Dale: LinkedIn and EmailResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeBoston SEO & content marketing agency fireandspark.com/Follow Dale Bertrand linkedin.com/in/dalebertrandIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Nicole Goldberg is an experienced marketing professional with over fifteen years in the ecommerce industry. Based in Los Angeles, she holds the role of Director of Growth Marketing at Faherty Brand, where she spearheads the development and implementation of the company's growth marketing strategy. Prior to her tenure at Faherty, Nicole played instrumental roles in overseeing digital marketing initiatives for prominent brands including BCBG, 7 For All Mankind, Splendid, and AG Jeans. Nicole is recognized for her strategic focus on achieving incremental growth and profitability while remaining aligned with company objectives. She excels in striking a harmonious balance between brand storytelling and conversion tactics, effectively driving impactful results across the marketing funnel. For listeners of Honest Ecommerce, Faherty is extending 20% off with code HONEST20 at fahertybrand.com.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:45] Intro[01:56] A career around digital marketing & Ecommerce[03:24] Leading new marketing initiatives [05:02] Faherty's approach to channel attribution[05:56] Dissecting channel performance using incrementality[07:03] Navigating tool options budget-wise[07:58] Evolving towards omni-channel marketing[08:45] Electric Eye: your true Shopify expert[09:40] Managing small-scale growth & budget constraints[10:45] Integrating last click and in-channel performance[12:50] Recognizing prospecting windows in Meta[13:44] Socials ads converting interest into leads[15:11] Adapting to digital noise: understanding touchpoints[16:31] Embracing love-hate dynamic on Meta's efficiency[17:19] Connected TV for diversified marketing efforts[19:44] Harnessing podcast advertising[20:50] Crafting conversational ads with balanced keypoints[22:03] Utilizing Performance Max to reach new customers[24:23] Balancing visibility with AI-based tools[24:57] Optimizing landing pages & on-site experience[26:14] Prioritizing page effectiveness for smaller teams[27:01] Use HONEST20 for 20% off on Faherty’s websiteResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeFamily-led brand of undeniably soft, incredibly comfortable clothes fahertybrand.com/Follow Nicole Goldberg linkedin.com/in/hendersonnicole/Use the code HONEST20 for 20% off full purchase at fahertybrand.com/Follow Nicole Goldberg linkedin.com/in/hendersonnicole/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Emma McIlroy is the founder and CEO of Wildfang, a multi million dollar fashion brand on a mission to rewrite the future of gender. Wildfang embraces your masc, your femme and everything-in-between. Wildfang has raised over $1k for charities that focus on racial justice, as well as queer, immigrant, and women’s rights. Pre-Wildfang, Emma spent over a decade honing her marketing skills at brands like Barclays and Nike. More recently, Emma has been named one of Inc.’s Female Founders 100, Oregon Entrepreneur of the Year, a Henry Crown Fellow and her "Yeah Maybe" TED talk has racked up over 100k views.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:43] Intro[01:23] Challenging norms & gendered clothing options[03:02] Expanding from brick-and-mortar to Ecommerce[04:12] Launching physical & online store side by side[05:05] Strategizing & focusing efforts before going live[06:51] Gaining momentum & navigating press attention[07:39] Doing personalized outreach strategies[08:55] Reaching varied audience segments[10:06] Putting in the effort to sell the vision[11:09] Building a website with no experience[12:37] Dealing with early days mishaps[13:43] Electric Eye: Your true Shopify expert[14:40] Challenges of selling others' products[15:53] Deciding to build own products[16:47] Endorsements and retail limitations[17:29] Moving from third-party to vertical business[18:04] Ensuring ethical production practices[18:39] Rediscovering the power of public relations[19:31] Intimidating expectations in the industry[21:05] Rejecting 'Advice Tornado' [21:58] Reflecting on industry shifts over a decade[23:09] Focusing on longevity & resonance in business[23:47] Staying true to your brand's strengths[25:06] Block out the noise & focus on what matters[26:41] Connecting on social: join WILDFANG's community[27:17] WILDFANG ventures into wholesaleResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeMasculine, feminine, and everything-in-between workwear wildfang.com/ Follow Emma McIlroy linkedin.com/in/emma-mcilroy-she-her-97811422/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

With over 25 years of experience in the e-commerce industry, Brent is the President and Founder of ContentBasis LLC, a cutting-edge startup that helps businesses optimize their content discovery through predictive analytics and human expertise. ContentBasis is a unique solution that combines advanced technology and human talent to enhance clients' digital footprint and customer experience. Throughout his career, Brent has been a serial entrepreneur, a keynote speaker, and a fervent advocate for outstanding e-commerce solutions. He started his first eCommerce website in 1995 and later co-founded and led Wagento, a top Adobe Commerce Agency in the Americas. He has also been recognized as a Magento Master for five consecutive years for mentoring the Magento community and delivering exceptional projects. As a podcast host and a global speaker, He shares insights and best practices on various topics related to e-commerce development, project management, and customer experience.He is also an active Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) member and a passionate endurance athlete. 27 Marathon, 1 Ultra Marathon, 6 Majors, and one Ironman.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:41] Intro[01:08] Exploring Ecommerce platforms[02:31] Talk Commerce's immersive podcast world[03:07] Crafting human-centered content solutions[04:58] Customizing solutions: AI for specific needs[05:57] Data-driven strategies: leveraging sales insights[08:06] Refining AI output for accuracy in content[10:12] Experimental success via testing SEO strategies[13:14] Evolving SEO: Beyond keyword stuffing[14:58] Establishing authority through content expertise[16:19] Addressing key concerns across platforms[17:57] Finding your USP and thinking outside the box[18:49] Tracking new and lost keywords[20:21] Staying ahead & doubling down on niches[21:10] Diversifying content: exploring audio & video[22:25] Exploring AI in podcasts[24:03] Exploring creativity beyond content creation[25:15] Get in touch with Talk Commerce & Content BasisResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeEmpowering entrepreneurs and marketers for success talk-commerce.com/Unique solution that combines advanced technology and human talent contentbasis.io/Follow Brent Peterson linkedin.com/in/brentwpeterson/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Kentaro is a multimedia artist, creative director, martial artist, and entrepreneur from Los Angeles, CA. After studying Neuroscience at UCSD then entering into the film program at UCLA, Kentaro started his career creating content for global brands such as McDonald’s, Lego, Benjamin Moore, and many others before eventually transitioning to be a children’s book illustrator and brand director. He created the visual direction for the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s children’s line with The Magic Tea House, and his children’s illustrations have traveled across museums throughout the United States. He has been featured on NBC for his large-scale guerilla pieces, the New York Times for his mural work, and in TIME magazine, Slash Film, Forbes, Huffington Post, Men's Health, GameRant, Vice, and NPR for his films. As a martial artist, Kentaro competed internationally, fighting Muay Thai at Pattaya Stadium in Thailand and training with Judo Olympians at the Kodokan and the Japanese royal guards within the Imperial Palace. He currently remains one of the cultural ambassadors for the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics. In 2015, he co-founded Neuro - a functional confectionary brand revolutionizing the consumable supplement space. With over 50 million pieces sold since Neuro’s successful Indiegogo campaign, the company has been featured in TIME magazine, Dr. Oz, Forbes 30 Under 30, The New Yorker, Buzzfeed, Shark Tank, The Joe Rogan Podcast, Fast Company, and Entrepreneur magazine. It can now be found in over 12,000 retail locations nationwide including Walmart, Whole Foods, Erewhon, Bristol Farms, Wynn hotels and Jet Blue. Alongside his ventures, Kentaro currently paints large scale murals as both a freelance artist and a qualified muralist through the Department of Cultural Affairs. As an experiential artist, he co-designed the immersive retail experience CAMP in New York, The Sixth Collection for Jerry Lorenzo's streetwear brand Fear of God, Britney Spears’ The Zone, and Diddy’s 50th Birthday through okidoki, an experiential design agency he co-founded in 2018. In the digital space, he has worked alongside Clubhouse and Crypto.com to do their first NFT drop and most recently finished two 2500SQFT murals in Downtown Los Angeles celebrating Ellison Onizuka, the first Asian American astronaut in space.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:43] Intro[01:04] Redefining gum and mints with supplements[02:33] From athletes to innovators: crafting a vision[03:48] Finding a co-manufacturer in the confectionery space[04:40] From concept to creation: the R&D journey[05:51] Challenges of defining a new product category[07:43] Adding value to existing products[09:34] Seizing momentum & harnessing community support[11:36] Bootstrapping triumph: the crowdfunding journey[12:13] Building genuine community connection on Reddit[14:16] Electric Eye: Your true Shopify experts[15:13] Strategic outreach: The PR hustle[16:19] Catalyzing success: from GearDiary to Time Magazine[16:52] Authenticity in action: Sustaining the original vision[18:18] Accelerating growth by investing in talent[19:33] Prioritizing progress over perfection in hiring[20:42] Adapting to demand & managing hiring complexities[21:44] Branching out & transitioning to omnichannel[23:04] Get Neuro functional gum and mintsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeNeuro functional gum and mints neurogum.com/Follow Kent Yoshimura linkedin.com/in/kentyoshimura/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Gustavo is an advertising & marketing executive turned entrepreneur. In the past, he’s held management positions in fortune 500 companies in the US & abroad. He currently runs jijamas®, a high-end sleepwear brand that he founded several years ago to help women unwind & relax from their busy lifestyles. He loves all things related to e-commerce and working with international markets.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:42] Intro[01:20] Finding the right business idea[03:23] Identifying a gap in sleepwear market for adults[04:38] Creating pajamas you want to be seen in[05:39] Tweaking existing ideas for success[07:29] The importance of consultative partnerships[09:49] Proving concept and establishing supply chain[11:11] Committing to full-time entrepreneurship[12:24] Customer acquisition beyond friends & family[14:07] Gaining confidence from continuous improvement[15:26] Electric Eye: your true Shopify experts[16:23] Prioritizing profitability over rapid scaling[18:28] Leveraging platforms to reach wider audiences[20:18] Achieving growth through strategic scaling[21:09] Thriving amidst the pandemic surge[21:48] The power of product quality and reviews[23:01 Luxury sleepwear from jijamasResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeLuxury sleepwear and comfy pajamas for men & women jijamas.com/Follow Gustavo Sanchez linkedin.com/in/gustavo-sanchez-8083a86/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Noah Tucker is the founder of Social Snowball, the word-of-mouth marketing platform for ecommerce. His experience in building Shopify sites, running ads, and working with influencers led him to build Social Snowball, which now supports affiliate and influencer marketing for brands like Fanjoy, Goorin Bros, and Outway Socks.Social Snowball’s modern and automated affiliate & referral programs drive millions in revenue for over 1,000 leading brands such as True Classic, Outway Socks, and Fanjoy.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:41] Intro[01:41] Recognizing a gap in affiliate marketing tools[02:45] Traditional to modern affiliate marketing[03:31] Redefining functionality for affiliate programs[04:38] Harnessing the power of customer affiliates[05:33] Automating affiliate programs for customers[06:39] Seeding and retracting sales with Social Snowball[07:47] Tabs Chocolate's creator-branded pages strategy[08:52] Customer affiliate integration: Set it and forget it[09:20] Seamless influencer outreach & product redemptions[10:23] Start your affiliate program with Social SnowballResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeAffiliate and referral platform for DTC socialsnowball.io/Follow Noah Tucker on LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/noah-tucker-%E2%98%83%EF%B8%8F-71a294154/Follow Noah Tucker on Twitter/X twitter.com/noatuckIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Karina Kogan is an award winning marketing and technology executive with a track record of feuling transformational growth and digital innovation for disruptor brands. Karina currently serves as Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer at Pvolve, an omnichannel fitness company that in 2023 announced a strategic partnership with Jennifer Aniston. Karina has spent two decades working at the intersections of innovation and marketing with prior roles as CMO of Oura, SVP & Global Head of Product Marketing at Peloton, and SVP of Digital Media and Products at WarnerMedia. Karina also holds board and advisory posts at Jackpot.com, FightCamp, among others. In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:46] Intro[02:19] Growing an omnichannel fitness brand[03:02] Reflecting on career journey to Pvolve[04:25] Jennifer Aniston's organic connection to Pvolve[06:28] Authenticity in brand-talent partnerships[07:21] Trend: celebrity collaborations in consumer brands[10:22] Electric Eye: your true Shopify experts[11:20] How functional fitness became the solution[12:59] Building strength and flexibility using Pvolve[13:49] Bringing on key team members to drive growth[14:54] Collaborating with agencies and vendors[15:42] Combining home workouts and in-person studios[16:43] The diverse responsibilities of a CMO[18:15] Stay relevant: the value of continuous learning[19:36] Strategic resource allocation for maximum ROI[20:41] Leveraging networking & relationships as startups[22:02] Tap into functional fitness with PvolveResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeFunctional and omnichannel fitness with resistance equipment pvolve.com/Follow Karina Kogan linkedin.com/in/kogankarina/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

A few years ago, Shaina, CEO of Bask and Lather Co’s younger sister lost ALL of her hair to a ringworm that spread across her scalp and was misdiagnosed as dandruff. Dermatologist told her mother that her hair may never grow back after months of having a smooth, shiny scalp. Out of desperation, her mother took things into her own hands and created a scalp oil to stimulate growth, which is now the company's #1 best selling product and a viral sensation. Shaina, who is also a licensed Nurse Practitioner, helped her mother perfect the formulations and ensure that the ingredients were all natural and safe. In addition to running the now 8-figure company, Shaina is a mother, fiancee and real estate investor.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:40] Intro[01:53] The origin story of a hair care breakthrough[02:55] Harnessing homemade remedy to restore hair health[03:45] Using Instagram to validate potential market[04:34] Building a brand story and launching with impact[06:01] Scaling followers using strategic collaborations[06:33] Finding relevant pages to reach a wider audience [07:46] Prioritizing organic reach across platforms[08:06] Workplace struggles as driving force to full-time CEO[10:20] Doubling revenue through full-time entrepreneurship[11:10] Episode Sponsor: Electric Eye[12:07] Ensuring business stability before going full-time[13:26] Harnessing Facebook Pixel for ad success[14:49] Finding an agency dedicated to the business[15:26] Reflecting on team dynamics in decision-making[16:50] Outsourcing warehouse operations for efficiency[18:44] Valuing passion and grit before skills when hiring[20:53] How to get products from Bask & Lather Co.Resources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubePrevent hair loss with hair growth products baskandlatherco.com/Follow Shaina Rainford linkedin.com/in/shaina-rainford-ms-rn-fnp-c-27b241113/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Ashu Dubey is the CEO and Co-Founder of Gleen, a leading generative AI-based customer service solution. As a serial AI entrepreneur, Ashu previously was CTO and Co-Founder of 12 Labs, an early pioneer in AI-powered personalized health recommendations. Ashu led top of the funnel user growth at LinkedIn, where he significantly accelerated user growth and was instrumental in launching innovative products such as LinkedIn Events. Ashu has an MBA from UCLA, attended IIT Dhanbad, and consistently merges technology and innovation to shape industry landscapes.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:40] Intro[01:47] Bridging Discord and Ecommerce gaps[03:08] The importance of reliable AI in business[04:25] Balancing AI risks and benefits[04:49] Limitations of ChatGPT integration[06:09] Aligning AI abilities with customer expectations[07:05] Improving your AI tool through feedbacks[07:35] Safeguarding customer information[08:35] Editing and customizing AI responses[09:43] Incorporating AI into help desks[10:26] Testing AI exposure levels on customers [11:03] Seamless Setup with Gleen AI[12:10] Gleen’s quick turnaround for integration requests[12:27] Unified suite of AI services with Gleen AI[14:17] Gleen’s special offer for Honest Ecommerce listeners[15:01] The omnichannel capability of Gleen[15:50] Find Ashu on LinkedIn and Twitter/XResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeGenerative AI platform for customer success https://gleen.ai/Follow Ashu Dubey https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashudubeyIf you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Mussayab Ehtesham, affectionately known as "Moose" within his circles, is originally from the vibrant streets of Pakistan. Moose grew up in a middle-class family, instilling in him the values of hard work, resilience, and self-reliance—pillars that would become the foundation of his entrepreneurial spirit.The visionary mind behind DMOOSE, an e-commerce brand that emerged in 2017 with a global mission to empower everyday athletes, Moose has transcended mere numbers. His story serves as a testament to breaking barriers and achieving monumental success through the right mindset and unwavering perseverance. With a background in Mechanical Engineering and a track record as a Project Manager in the automotive industry, Moose brings a distinctive perspective on business, innovation, and leadership. Beyond the realm of business triumphs, Moose's narrative extends to overcoming personal health challenges, offering profound insights into the crucial connection between physical and mental well-being. He underscores the power of mindset in achieving goals, continuous learning, and growth. For Moose, a balanced life is the key, revolving around the principles of family, fitness, and freedom. As an entrepreneur, investor, and motivator, he is on a mission to assist others in finding clarity, knowledge, and vision in their lives. In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:54] Intro[01:47] Personal health struggles inspire business idea[02:51] From one product to a one stop shop[03:38] Leveraging project management skills for business[05:28] Pouring revenue back into business growth[06:49] Delegating tasks and embracing a leadership role[07:53] Transitioning from side hustle to serious business[08:54] Finding and investing in skilled individuals[11:03] Episode sponsors[13:05] Amazon to Shopify: long-term vision & branding[15:39] Using a diversified business strategy[17:04] The continuous optimization process on Shopify[18:47] Three key metrics for Shopify success[21:27] Balancing between Amazon and Shopify[21:54] Avoiding overreliance on a single channel[22:36] Avoiding complacency & staying on top of your game[24:17] Striking balance between business & personal life[25:34] Learning from failure: The path to improvement[27:06] The power of long-term planning and envisioning[28:01] One stop shop for all your fitness needsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeOne stop shop for fitness dmoose.com/Follow Mussayab Ehtesham linkedin.com/in/mussayabSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Brian Pedone took up boxing at the age of 13, and by 19, he had started his own boxing gym working with teenagers. Brian holds a BS in Computer Science and was featured by BusinessWeek in 2008 as one of the top 25 entrepreneurs 25 years and under in America. In 2013 he started the concept for Quiet Punch and has been at it now for over 10 years. His mission has been to make boxing accessible for all. He loves working with entrepreneurs and helping others get started.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:45] Intro[02:10] Quiet Punch: boxing in small spaces[03:18] Brainstorming the Quiet Punch model[04:29] Simplifying things to find the perfect design[05:41] Securing the right manufacturer[06:05] Shifting from boxing equipment to home fitness[07:18] Embracing the idea of a wider market[08:31] Overcoming minimum order requirements[09:28] Negotiating TV plans for mass market appeal[10:41] Prioritizing ownership and independence[11:17] Episode sponsors[13:26] Monetizing efforts for product investment[15:01] Encountering Ecommerce struggles and breakthroughs[16:09] Managing surge in sales and traction[17:00] Recognizing the "We're Onto Something" moment[17:25] Seizing unexpected opportunities[18:00] Sustaining momentum with accidental scarcity[19:00] Capitalizing on sustainable revenue[19:35] Anticipating success and accepting setbacks[20:42] Adjusting from increasing sales to slow growth[21:16] Transforming products into subscriptions[22:24] Building brand commitment through subscriptions[23:32] Testing what customers would like to pay for[24:20] Consumer interest on small group engagements[25:00] Building freemium relationships with customers[25:28] Idea vs. Execution: the critical combination[26:14] Managing expectations on startup successResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeSmart home punching bag quietpunch.com/Follow Brian Pedone linkedin.com/in/brian-pedone/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Jake Madoff is a full-stack growth marketing leader, specializing in growth marketing strategy, paid social, paid search, SEO, and CRO. He’s led growth at three multi-million dollar startups—Bespoke Post, Sealed, and Everytable and founded three startups of his own.Through his 8-year freelance career, he has worked with over 100 brands like HUM Nutrition, Home Chef, Renaissance Capital, Kindo AI, Strategic Coach, Threadbeast, Jean Dousset, Partake Foods, TradeMark Engine, and many more, ranging from small ($5K-$10K monthly spend) to large-sized media budgets ($2M+ monthly spend). He helped these brands to optimize and scale their existing paid media campaigns, improve funnel conversion rates, evolve their creative strategy, and diversify their paid media marketing mix across different paid channels.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:47] Intro[01:46] From affiliate revenue to lead growth[03:24] Embracing an omnichannel approach[04:38] Perfection delays progress in marketing[06:52] crafting high-value lookalikes[08:29] Optimizing pixel insights & conversion API[09:09] Creating compelling cinemagraphs[09:48] Understanding channel personalities[11:07] Maximizing Shopify's ad targeting capabilities[12:38] Taking enterprise-Level expertise to freelancing[14:10] Converting results across different sectors[14:48] Sharing expertise: offering tips and strategies[15:22] Exploring the roles of a growth marketer[17:00] The holistic approach of growth marketing[18:38] Maximizing ROI with limited ad budgets[20:53] Tailoring testing approach to ad spend[21:39] Balancing growth and acquisition costs[23:34] Determining the right time to add channels[25:21] Using organic & paid efforts on different channels[27:03] Reach out to Jake MadoffResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeIncrease your revenue with growth marketing jakemadoff.io/Follow Jake Madoff linkedin.com/in/jake-madoff-8a191070/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

As Chief Marketing Officer, Kiran oversees marketing, brand, channel and product strategy along with creative services with a goal of expanding ButcherBox's reach and communicating its authenticity to consumers. Prior to ButcherBox, Kiran served as the CMO at iRobot and as the CEO of Arnold Worldwide. Kiran earned her B.A. in Computer Science from Bucknell University and an MBA from The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:44] Intro[01:29] Navigating the world of consumer packaged goods[02:45] The multi-faceted role of a CMO[03:39] Maximizing impact through integrated planning[04:26] Setting long-term goals in marketing[05:58] Adapting to business structures for team-building[06:47] Driving shared incentives in affiliate marketing[08:31] Nurturing genuine influencer relationships[10:13] Tailoring affiliate offers based on their audiences[10:52] Episode sponsors[15:06] Adding value & embracing growth in every role[16:31] Leveraging ecosystem support for growth[18:32] Building a culture of continuous improvement[19:45] Thriving in a Test and Learn environment[21:10] Quality meat subscriptions from ButcherBox[21:34] Kiran Smith's message to aspiring entrepreneursResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeYour meat and seafood solution every day of the week https://www.butcherbox.com/Follow Kiran Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiransmith/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at https://www.intelligems.io/Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process https://www.portless.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Shizu Okusa is the Founder & CEO of Apothékary, a plant-based farmacy that couples traditional medicine with modern day ailments, offering natural alternatives to over-the-counter drugs and beauty products. The company was established in 2019 and has since expanded their business beyond the US and now in 22+ countries worldwide. In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:52] Intro[01:39] Transforming No’s into a business idea[02:53] From Aha moment to a wellness journey[03:37] Modernizing Eastern apothecary[04:2] Gathering storefront insights for Ecommerce[05:41] Maximizing data-driven marketing[07:39] Embracing a remote and global team[08:22] The wave of mental wellness trends during COVID[10:24] Seizing the Shark Tank opportunity[11:50] Behind the scenes of Shark Tank filming[12:45] The numbers behind the Shark Tank pitch[14:03] Episode sponsors[16:06] Battling a hacking incident[18:16] Reflecting on social media best practices[19:05] Prioritizing email and owned media[21:19] The rise of wellness as gifts[22:46] The importance of targeted investor outreach[24:00] Clean, effective herbal remedies at ApothékaryResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeMore natural way of life through vetted herbal remedies apothekary.co/Follow Shizu Okusa linkedin.com/in/shizu-okusa-87a25415/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Mischa is a dynamic force in the world of digital marketing; empowering heart-centered entrepreneurs to amplify their message into the market and elevate their authority, their impact, and their income. No need for throwing money away on Facebook ads, Mischa has got a better strategy up his sleeve!With a track record of 20 years in old-school sales, Mischa marries tried-and-true strategies with the cutting-edge tools of the digital era. He has made over a million phone calls, run massive flier campaigns, and pounded the pavement door-to-door and business-to-business. Mischa and his team generated over 1.5 billion dollars in loans funded. After a brief retirement to guide his two boys through high school and enlighten others through yoga teaching, Mischa's now back in the game and his superpower is building influence.As the founder of the "Influence Army" and host of the “Table Rush Talk Show”, he's all about sharing his expertise and inspiring others to put their voice out there in a big way. In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:49] Intro[02:17] Building business on a budget using earned media[03:58] Using podcast tours in brand promotion[05:50] Tapping into diverse podcast audiences[07:15] Leveraging CTAs and catchy URLs[08:44] Crafting impressions for host recommendations[09:53] Enriching your network through podcast[10:57] Leveraging podcasts for collaborations[12:00] Podcasts as platforms for affiliate partnerships[12:59] Exploring joint offers and revenue sharing[14:00] Repurposing content for maximum impact[14:43] The multifaceted power of podcasting[15:39] Video transcription tools for seamless editing[17:12] The branding benefits of podcasting[18:25] The impact of podcasting in exposure and authority[21:00] Finding and targeting niche audiences[22:26] Refining podcast search strategies with AI [23:22] Tapping into speaker lists for opportunities[24:20] Using tools to track competitors’ appearances[26:20] Efficient outreach with RSS feed finders[27:32] Hunting for podcast contacts[28:55] Proven templates for podcast guest outreach[30:38] Handling various replies to guest requests[32:53] Leveraging no responses for second pitches[34:34] Garnering interest for further discussion[35:48] Prioritizing conversations with interested leads[37:54] The power of follow-up in podcast guesting[39:34] Using LinkedIn to expand your network[40:16] Quick, simple, and value-added messages[41:17] Navigating positive and unexpected replies[42:07] Asking questions for smooth guest onboarding[43:05] Addressing production costs with guests[46:38] Responding strategically to feedback[47:26] Amplify your voice with The Influence ArmyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeAmplify your voice with a tribe of heart-centered entrepreneurs theinfluencearmy.com/mifgeStart a profitable podcast tour theinfluencearmy.com/guideValuable insights on strategic marketing podcasts.apple.com/ng/podcast/table-rush-talk-show/id1541515693Follow Mischa Zvegintzov linkedin.com/in/mischaz/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Preston Rutherford is the Cofounder of Chubbies Shorts, which was acquired for 9-figures and is now part Solo Brands, a public company.He is also the Cofounder of Loop Returns, the top Shopify Returns & Exchanges Platform.Preston is an expert in Marketing, Growth, Brand, E-commerce, CRO, Data, Acquisition, and Retention. He’s also a dabbler in private equity, enterprise fintech software, and real estate development.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:46] Intro[01:32] Bringing retro & fun clothing back [03:30] Filling a gap in the market[04:24] Harnessing founders' individual skill sets[05:33] Assessing markers for full-time transition[06:35] Using personal interactions promote Your brand[08:19] Sparking genuine interest for the brand[09:21] Recognizing external validation[10:03] Creating a genuine brand image using UGC[11:32] Staying true to vision amidst skepticism[12:45] Episode sponsors[16:58] Establishing brand presence through content[18:59] Nurturing founder relationships & customer trust[20:05] Building a positive association with customers[20:53] Turning rough returns into smooth solutions[22:31] Transforming Ecommerce solution ideas into action[24:21] Solving problems without other expectations[26:25] Helping entrepreneurs navigate brand buildingResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeProper length men’s shorts and custom-built-for-the-weekend apparel chubbiesshorts.com/Returns management for Ecommerce brands loopreturns.com/Follow Preston Rutherford linkedin.com/in/prestonr/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at https://www.intelligems.io/Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process https://www.portless.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Daniel Winer HexClad Co-Founder & CEO CEO, Co-Founder and kitchen maverick, Daniel Winer is the mastermind behind HexClad Cookware. After spending more than a decade building relationships in the industry, Daniel recognized the opportunity for cookware in the DTC market. He worked to develop the first true innovation in cookware since the invention of non-stick - the patented HexClad design – which provides the searing capability of stainless steel and cast iron with the easy cleanup of nonstick for an unparalleled, high-performance culinary experience. Daniel began marketing HexClad directly to consumers in 2016 and in 2021, partnered with 22-time Michelin-Starred Chef, Gordon Ramsay. To date, HexClad has become one of the most successful self-funded, DTC companies in any category driving hundreds of millions in sales and revolutionizing the cookware industry along the way. Danny currently leads the strategic direction of HexClad along with all product development efforts and global expansion initiatives. Daniel holds a Bachelors of Arts degree from New York University. In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:48] Intro[01:51] Turning cookware passion into a business idea[03:17] Reflecting on failures and lessons learned[05:18] Exploring product designs[06:14] Unexpected branding success[07:05] Making sacrifices for business growth[07:39] Emphasizing storytelling in marketing[09:02] Serendipitous encounter with Costco[10:14] Experimenting with messaging[11:08] Generating discussion and engagement[11:48] Identifying with the Gen Z and Millennials[13:31] Evaluating profitability and engagement metrics[14:09] Assessing ad spend efficiency[15:31] Balancing ad budget and revenue[16:34] Transitioning in-store insights to Facebook ads[18:26] Defying expectations with progressive growth[19:58] Episode sponsors[22:00] Harnessing collaborative power[23:43] Entering the market with a game-changing product[25:41] Upholding trust and customer commitment[27:02] Ask questions and accept constructive feedback[29:00] Embracing failure as a stepping stone[29:36] The importance of self-reflection as entrepreneurs[31:33] Where to find HexClad[32:23] Inspiring future entrepreneurs with success storiesResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeThe only true hybrid cookware https://hexclad.com/Follow Daniel Winer https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-winer-647bba90/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at https://www.intelligems.io/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Lindsay More Nisbett is an entrepreneur, creative director, and Co-Founder & Brand Director of The Line Studios, a leading creative production studio with expertise in creating compelling e-commerce and marketing content. Since its inception in January 2016, Lindsay has built The Line Studios into the go-to imagery experts for top e-commerce brands, including Hill House Home, MM LaFleur, Negative Underwear, Fresh Beauty, Faherty Brand, and many more. By striking the perfect balance between a beautiful image and an efficient production process, The Line Studios has become well-known for providing their clients with best-in-class e-commerce imagery that drives incremental lift in revenue. Lindsay's vision for The Line Studios transcends mere visuals; it's about crafting exceptional e-commerce imagery that not only elevates the client's brand but also translates into outstanding results. Her unwavering commitment to delivering the highest quality visuals has allowed The Line Studios to capture the very essence of their client's products and effectively convey their brand's unique message to consumers. Lindsay More Nisbett continues to shape the Ecommerce landscape, setting new standards of excellence with each project undertaken by The Line Studios.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:46] Intro[02:39] Shifting from ad campaigns to Ecommerce[03:56] Bridging luxury brands’ Ecomm struggles[05:34] Incorporating brand voice through imagery[08:06] Elevating basic product imagery[09:37] Crafting visual brand language[11:29] The ROI of experimenting with imagery[12:56] Focusing on best-selling products[14:06] Investing strategically in assets[15:38] Standing out against competition[17:11] Diversifying video content[18:43] Building trust through imagery[20:23] Limitations of AI in imagery[22:04] Rising trends in ecommerce imagery[23:52] Reevaluating website priorities[24:48] Evolving consumer behavior[25:20] Reach out to The Line StudiosResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeCreative production solutions for Ecommerce brands thelinestudios.nycFollow Lindsay More Nisbett linkedin.com/in/lindsay-more-nisbett-01005b4/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Samantha Coxe is the CEO and Founder of Flaus, the world's first electric flosser. Prior to founding Flaus, Sam was a M&A attorney at Skadden, Arps, assisting dozens of high growth startups through their entire life cycle - from formation to exit. As a Female Founder, Sam’s passions supporting Women’s Rights, inclusivity, sustainability, and self-acceptance are the foundation of Flaus’ brand mission and personality.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:44] Intro[01:16] Flossing frustration sparks business idea[02:44] From concept to data validation[03:39] DIY-ing the first prototype[04:39] The power of surveys and data-driven validation[06:25] Discovering the target audience already existed[08:25] Navigating crowdfunding campaigns[09:38] Managing crowdfunding expectations [10:42] Partnering with crowdfunding agencies[12:27] Harnessing email list & pre-campaign momentum[15:27] Understanding crowdfunding realities[16:16] Episode sponsors[20:30] Learning the essentials before the actual launch[22:11] Strategic investor partnerships[23:10] Optimizing customer acquisition[24:09] Discovering diverse customer audiences[25:30] Focusing and improving what works[26:55] Stay the course, avoid over-expansion[28:10] Thriving in challenging times[29:47] Check out Flaus productsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeThe world’s first eco-friendly, electric flosser goflaus.com/Follow Samantha Coxe linkedin.com/in/samanthacoxe/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Darron Burke is the founder and CEO of Burke Brands, a 20-year-old specialty coffee growing and roasting company that started in a garage and now has over $100M in lifetime sales. The company produces the Don Pablo, Pablo's Pride, and Subtle Earth Organic coffee brands, in addition to private label brands for third party CPG companies. Its own brands are sold in Costco, Walmart/Sam's Club, Kroger, and other brick and mortar locations, as well as online. Darron has always been entrepreneurial, starting various businesses, but immediately before becoming "Don Pablo," Darron taught Entrepreneurship at an inner-city Miami High School for four years.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:46] Intro[01:55] The 20-year journey of a novel coffee brand[02:56] Exploring coffee farms as a curious entrepreneur[04:19] Pushing through against the discouragement[05:37] The upside of naivety as a startup business[06:34] Persistence pays: from garage to Costco[07:36] Leveraging roadshows to gain exposure[08:47] Reaching out to different demographics[09:41] Building momentum pre-digital advertising era[10:14] Hopping on to the digital marketing surge[11:09] The pressure that comes with the first order[12:35] Being resourceful in the midst of pressure[13:24] Building success, one cup at a time[15:26] Episode sponsors[17:28] The value of giving out free samples[19:12] Utilizing modern Ecommerce strategies[20:52] From supply chain issues to scaling success online[22:02] Balancing retail channels[23:14] Maximizing market reach via cross-channel synergy[24:32] Unlocking private label profit[25:53] Streamlined private labeling[26:55] Adding value beyond product[28:17] Check out Don Pablo CoffeeResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeWhole Bean Coffee, Ground Coffee, and K-Cups from Don Pablo donpablocoffee.com/Follow Darron "Don Pablo" Burke linkedin.com/in/darron-don-pablo-burke/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Josh is the Founder and CEO of Meriwether - the SEO agency that generates new revenue for ecommerce brands. Learn more at meriwether.digital.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:45] Intro[01:06] Evaluating the Ecommerce SEO landscape[02:28] Maximizing SEO investment in modern Ecommerce[05:03] The power of backlinks in the digital space[06:44] Navigating backlink competition and the costs[07:33] Boosting SEO with targeted content[09:24] Customizing SEO efforts for Ecommerce niches[11:04] Navigating SEO strategy based on search demand[11:49] Converting people’s search intent to sales[13:37] GA4’s model comparison tool & Search Console[16:00] Building topical authority for long-term results[17:39] Sniping easy keywords as a smart SEO start[19:04] Utilizing keyword tools for keyword ideation[21:28] The value of unique perspectives in content[23:46] The power of dedication in content marketing[25:03] Boost website performance with attribution reports[26:20] Ecommerce SEO & content marketing with MeriwetherResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeEcommerce SEO and content marketing https://www.meriwether.digital/Follow Josh Piepmeier https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshpiepmeier/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Meet the trailblazer behind the freshest face in the sparkling water game, Mike Pilkington. He is the co-founder of KEY Sparkling Water. He’s a graduate of Wayne State University (BA - Psychology) and University of Detroit Mercy (MBA).Going beyond the bubbles, Mike has a history steeped in grit and growth. From supercharging Death Wish Coffee into one of the top coffee brands in the United States to navigating the waters of Sysco's strategic acquisitions and leading Sysco Albany's operations, his leadership and vision have been second to none. Now, at the helm of KEY, he's here to deliver a gulp of authenticity with the right kick of real fruit all in a can as rugged as your ambition.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:42] Intro[01:43] revolutionizing the sparkling water market[02:30] Entering the crowd space to disrupt the norm[03:22] Building a startup biz with a clear vision [04:28] Forming connections and scaling success[06:03] Self-awareness and ego-free leadership[07:17] Strategic hiring and delegation[08:13] Honest self-assessment goes a long way[09:35] Assembling a winning team[12:08] Failing openly and embracing transparency[13:00] Focusing on capacity, not credentials[13:56] The fragile nature of startups[15:03] Navigating early-stage startup roles[16:18] Episode sponsors[21:27] Leveraging multichannel strategy[22:48] How to start? Just get started[25:02] Lead generation and touching bases with people[27:04] Utilizing word-of-mouth[27:45] The power of telling your story[28:34] People are accessible, just reach out[29:47] Get real fruit, shenanigan-free sparkling waterResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeReal fruit and shenanigan-free sparkling water keysparklingwater.com/Follow Mike Pilkington linkedin.com/in/mike-pilkington-yes/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Griffin Spolansky is the CEO and Co-Founder of Mezcla, a plant-based snack brand that is mixing it up with exciting flavors and textures. Griffin was also named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2023 Food and Beverage. He’s also a part of Division 1 Men's Lacrosse National Champion - 2019 - University of Virginia Israel Men's National Lacrosse Team.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:47] Intro[01:38] The start of an entrepreneurial idea[02:11] Balancing personal and professional life[03:23] Facing and overcoming expectations [04:00] Crafting, testing, and refining samples[04:41] Leveraging connections for co-manufacturing[05:33] The timing from idea to samples[06:00] Pivoting in a pandemic[06:39] Capitalizing influencers and their audience[07:35] Choosing the right influencers as advocates[08:25] Valuing influencers’ authenticity over clout[09:27] Managing stress and setbacks[10:22] Shifting From Ecommerce to retail[11:01] The power of experienced guidance[12:26] Episode sponsors[15:21] Learning from hiring mistakes[16:43] Accepting constructive criticisms[17:23] Pushing through the highs and lows[17:51] Where to get Mezcla plant protein barsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeFeel-good moments with plant-based snacks eatmezcla.com/Follow Griffin Spolansky linkedin.com/in/griffinspolansky/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Kelly Oriard is the co-founder and Chief Therapeutic Officer at Slumberkins, a children’s education and emotional health brand. She holds a dual master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and School Counseling. As a therapist, school counselor, and mother, Oriard is passionate about changing how we support mental and emotional wellbeing for children and families. As the author behind the character storylines at Slumberkins, Kelly is changing the way children and families can access the content and strategies, usually found in a family therapy session, in a fun, easy-to-use way that creates healing and brings meaningful moments of connection that make a lifelong impact on the emotional health of children. Callie Christensen is the co-founder and Chief Community Officer at Slumberkins, a children’s education and emotional wellness brand. Callie holds a master’s in teaching elementary education and special education. As a mother and educator turned entrepreneur, she’s on a mission to use her educational background to create an accessible, meaningful, and purposeful brand that is useful in every home and school to help support families and communities on their journeys of emotional health. Slumberkins is at the forefront of brand building online as they expand into children’s entertainment by bringing the characters to life in a preschool television series produced by The Jim Henson Company. They just launched the first-ever music album for kids & families: Together We Shine, Vol. 1. Debuted as #1 kids album on iTunes https://orcd.co/slumberkinstws They also just launched a New Affirmation App on iTunes that's free for kids and families https://apps.apple.com/us/app/slumberkins/id1627118113 Slumberkins children's show streaming now on Apple TV+ https://tv.apple.com/us/show/slumberkins/umc.cmc.4r9fjly8gp831gqkfe8ft1xrb They are making as many tools and resources available to families so they can easily integrate moments of connection and social emotional learning into every day.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:45] Intro[01:53] A business idea for children’s mental health[03:00] From side hustle to full-time success[04:02] Continuing the momentum online[04:53] Doing your best in research and storytelling[05:30] Experiencing organic growth from social media[06:15] Achieving BHAG with the right manufacturer[07:21] Building good relationships with business partners[09:21] Establishing Slumberkins' online presence[11:00] The Shark Tank push to be full-time entrepreneurs[12:46] Low salaries for long-term business hains[15:04] A transformative experience with Shark Tank[16:40] Connecting authentically with your community[18:22] Episode sponsors[23:36] Bringing Slumberkins to the screen[25:37] Authentic relationships do the magic[26:16] The sales surge post-Slumberkins TV debut[27:22] Community feedback is marketing itself[28:20] How landing a TV series elevates a business[29:08] Seizing omni-channel opportunities[29:46] Extending parent-child connection with an app[31:12] Navigating the continuous evolution of Ecomm[33:19] Embracing the endless rollercoaster rideResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeEducational and emotional learning products for children slumberkins.com/Follow Callie Christensen linkedin.com/in/callie-christensen-146b48148/Follow Kelly Oriard linkedin.com/in/kelly-oriard-149b48148/Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBook a demo today at intelligems.io/Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Elizabeth is a seasoned expert in the field of conferences, with nearly a decade of experience in market research and event organization in the retail and finance sectors. Since 2021, she has played an integral role in the powerhouse eTail Palm Springs team, co-producing the event alongside Kristin Schoenstein. When not immersed in the world of eCommerce conferences, she calls Queens home, sharing her space with her cat Wednesday. Kristin Schoenstein has been a Program Director at Worldwide Business Research since 2010 and has been producing events since 2004. She currently specializes in the retail and eCommerce sector where she is the Portfolio Director for eTail, which includes producing eTail Boston and co-producing eTail Palm Springs. In her free time, Kristin lives on the East End of Long Island where she enjoys boating, yoga, running and days at the beach with her husband and three daughters.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:49] Intro[01:21] Being a program director for industry conferences[02:28] Trend #1: the role of AI in retail businesses[03:09] Trend #2: Social commerce and live shopping[03:32] Trend #3: Launching partnerships to expand reach[05:04] Conferences bring like-minded people together[06:10] Creating opportunities for people to network[07:21] Curating relevant content from outstanding speakers[08:22] Inviting panels across different fields[09:12] eTail’s 25th anniversary: walk down the memory lane[09:56] A fun time for both attendees and staff members[10:40] Don’t do everything, divide and conquerResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeA community of retailers launching industry conferences etailwest.wbresearch.com/Follow Kristin Schoenstein linkedin.com/in/kristin-paulick-schoenstein-0a7aa95/Follow Elizabeth Robillard linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-robillard-a3141150/If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!