Ecomm Breakthrough

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley shares how the COVID-19 pandemic caused a devastating 90% overnight sales drop in his Amazon party supplies business — just as he'd bought his dream home and left his corporate job. Facing financial pressure with no safety net, Josh pivoted boldly, launching educational homeschooling posters that quickly became bestsellers. He shares three key lessons: focus on what's already working before diversifying, build a cohesive brand, and take calculated big risks. Josh also emphasizes saving profits for emergencies, illustrating how resilience and adaptability helped him scale to over $20 million annually. Links and Mentions: Tools and Websites "Etsy": "00:08:09" "Facebook": "00:08:09" Key Concepts and Strategies "Printable Files": "00:08:09" "Virtual Party Invitations": "00:08:09" "Stay-at-Home Family Celebration Party Kit": "00:08:09" "Educational Posters": "00:10:57" "Whole Life Insurance": "00:22:03" "S&P 500": "00:22:03" Lessons Learned "Do not diversify too early": "00:14:51" "Focus on building a cohesive brand": "00:16:41" "Be willing to take risks in competitive categories": "00:19:12" Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction & Background Josh introduces himself, his business background, and the premise of the episode about overcoming a 90% sales drop. 00:00:55 Pre-COVID Life & Buying a New Home Describes family situation, decision to buy a larger home, and the excitement and anxiety of making a big purchase. 00:02:44 Closing on the Dream Home & COVID Hits Details closing on the new house in late February 2020, and the immediate onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. 00:03:39 Immediate Impact of COVID on Business Explains how COVID caused gatherings to stop, leading to a 90% overnight drop in sales of party supplies. 00:05:27 Financial and Emotional Pressure Discusses the stress of a new mortgage, loss of business income, and having just left a corporate job. 00:07:18 Initial Scramble & Early Pivots Shares the first attempts to recover revenue, including printable files, virtual invitations, and new product ideas. 00:09:00 Experimenting with New Revenue Streams Describes launching a family celebration kit membership and turning off Amazon ads due to poor performance. 00:10:01 Gradual Recovery & The Big Pivot Outlines the slow sales recovery and the decision to make a bold move into educational posters for homeschooling. 00:10:57 Launching Educational Posters Details the launch of educational posters in late August/early September 2020, quickly becoming a bestseller. 00:12:55 Lessons Learned: Focus on What Works Reflects on the mistake of focusing on Shopify over Amazon, and the importance of doubling down on successful channels. 00:15:49 Lessons Learned: Brand Cohesion Discusses the lack of a cohesive brand and the need to define and serve a specific customer avatar. 00:18:14 Lessons Learned: Take Bigger Risks Emphasizes the importance of focusing growth, taking bigger swings, and not playing it too safe with product launches. 00:20:07 Action in Crisis & Doubling Down Encourages taking action during tough times, experimenting, and doubling down on what works to drive recovery. 00:22:03 Preparing for a Rainy Day Advises saving profits, investing in safe assets, and building a financial safety net for future downturns. 00:22:56 Conclusion & Final Encouragement Wraps up with encouragement to focus on proven channels and make bold moves when facing adversity. Transcripts: Josh Hadley 00:00:00 I lost 90% of the sales in my business overnight. At that point, I felt like my business was done for. It was time to close up shop and find something different to do. Today I'm going to share with you the exact strategies, the tactics, and the lessons learned that I implemented in the business to be able to resurrect it from the dead and to get it where it is today of generating over $20 million in annual revenue. Welcome to the Ecomm...

In this episode, host Josh interviews Corey Apirian, a seasoned supply chain leader, about innovative e-commerce supply chain strategies. Corey explains how Davinci enables brands to create virtual product bundles, optimize inventory, and improve profitability across channels like Walmart and direct-to-consumer platforms. They discuss the limitations of relying solely on Amazon’s fulfillment, the benefits of diversified fulfillment strategies, and the importance of data-driven merchandising. Corey also shares advice on global supply chain resilience, emphasizing hybrid inventory approaches and multi-sourcing. The episode concludes with actionable tips for brands to enhance agility and succeed in today’s evolving e-commerce landscape. Chapters: Introduction to Corey Apirian and His Expertise (00:00:00) Josh introduces Corey Apirian, highlighting his 19+ years in supply chain, e-commerce, and channel merchandising. Product Bundling Without Physical Kitting (00:00:49) Discussion on creating product bundles and differentiated SKUs without pre-kitting, optimizing inventory and channel profitability. Market Basket Analysis and Channel Merchandising (00:03:00) Explains how market basket analysis informs merchandising, bundle creation, and channel-specific assortment strategies. Optimizing Multi-Channel Fulfillment Beyond Amazon (00:06:42) Debate on Amazon’s multi-channel fulfillment versus direct integrations, control, and agility for brands. Limitations of Amazon’s Fulfillment Ecosystem (00:07:44) Details the drawbacks of relying solely on Amazon FBA and multi-channel fulfillment, including cost, control, and data limitations. Direct Integrations and Fulfillment Strategy Recommendations (00:09:50) Advice for larger brands to use direct integrations and diversified fulfillment for better control and profitability. Global Supply Chain Challenges and Recommendations (00:11:07) Corey’s advice on hybrid inventory strategies, multi-sourcing, and supply chain agility in a changing global landscape. Actionable Takeaways for E-commerce Brands (00:13:17) Josh summarizes three key action items: hire a supply chain manager, diversify beyond Amazon, and leverage expert partners like DaVinci. Closing Remarks and Contact Recommendation (00:15:43) Josh encourages listeners to connect with Corey for tailored supply chain and merchandising insights. Links and Mentions: Tools and Services "Davinci": "00:06:22" Key Concepts "Market Basket Analysis": "00:03:16" Actionable Takeaways "Hire a Supply Chain Manager": "00:13:17" "Diversify Beyond Amazon": "00:14:29" "Reach Out to Experts": "00:15:43" General Advice "Just-in-Time vs. Just-in-Case Inventory": "00:11:19" Transcript: Josh 00:00:00 Today I'm super excited to introduce you all to Corey Apirian, a seasoned supply chain and operations leader with over 19 years of experience. A key to his success was his ability to develop and execute strategies that drove significant growth, cost savings, and exceptional customer service. Specifically, he specializes in e-commerce and channel merchandising, aligning operational initiatives with corporate objectives and building and leading high performing teams through inclusion, collaboration and engagement. His experience includes product management, contract negotiations, continuous improvement, and implementing emerging technologies as well as cultivating key relationships. So with that, welcome to the podcast, Corey. Corey 00:00:46 Thanks for having me, Josh. Excited to be here. Josh 00:00:49 A seller could essentially come to you or a brand and say, hey, I've got here's a bunch of different products. I think some of these could be bundled really well together. I don't know which ones which, but obviously if you're doing that on Amazon FBA. You have to kit them together first and send them in before you can collect data. In your example, you don't actually have to have them kidded to actually create that skew and at least...

Lee Assoulin is the Founder and CEO of Stonecutter, a boutique Amazon brand management agency that partners with premium brands to scale profitably on the world's largest marketplace. With over 12 years of Amazon expertise, Lee has guided venture-backed startups, heritage brands, and category leaders through the complexities of the platform, combining strategic depth with operational rigor. He's currently managing over $220M in annual revenue while building AI-powered infrastructure to redefine how agencies operate. His mission is to prove that premium brands can win on Amazon without compromising on quality or brand equity with an agency they can trust. Highlight Bullets > Here’s a glimpse of what you would learn…. In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley speaks with Lee Assoulin, founder and CEO of Stonecutter, a boutique Amazon brand management agency. Drawing on 12+ years of experience, Lee discusses how AI is reshaping Amazon brand management. Key topics include avoiding "shiny object syndrome," building solid SOPs before automating, keeping humans in the loop for critical decisions, and developing an "AI native" team culture. Lee also shares practical advice on recording team calls, refining documentation with AI, and empowering team members who genuinely embrace AI tools to drive sustainable business growth. Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode: Fix your SOPs before adding AI optimize proven systemsUse AI for execution, not strategy Adopt AI with a clear ROI filter Timestamps: 00:00:23 Introduction to AI in E-commerce The host introduces the topic of AI for top Amazon sellers and teases the actionable advice from the guest. 00:01:01 Guest Introduction: Lee Assoulin Host Josh Hadley introduces Lee Assoulin, founder of Stonecutter, highlighting his extensive experience managing major Amazon brands. 00:02:46 The Current State of AI in E-commerce Lee discusses how AI is being adopted differently by large, established sellers versus smaller, scrappier ones in the mature Amazon marketplace. 00:04:31 AI and "Shiny Object Syndrome" The discussion turns to the risk of entrepreneurs getting distracted by new AI tools instead of focusing on core business needs. 00:05:57 The "Aladdin's Cave" Analogy for AI Lee uses an analogy to explain the danger of chasing countless small AI tools without a solid, overarching framework. 00:08:33 SOPs: The Foundation for AI The importance of having proven, repeatable processes (SOPs) in place before attempting to automate them with AI is discussed. 00:10:00 The Right Approach to AI Automation Lee explains that the best automation strategy depends on scale; larger brands require a more cautious, human-in-the-loop approach. 00:12:15 Can One Person Build a $100M Brand? A discussion on the future of business structures, predicting small, highly-skilled teams enabled by AI will become the norm. 00:14:55 The Risk of AI Homogenization If everyone uses the same AI strategies, there is no competitive edge. The human element provides the necessary differentiation. 00:16:27 Practical AI Use Cases for Beginners Lee suggests starting by using AI to analyze content and rewrite copy based on frameworks like Amazon's COSMO paper. 00:19:24 The Dangers of Lazy AI Implementation Warning against the pitfalls of lazy AI use, such as generic auto-generated emails that can damage brand perception. 00:22:23 Automating Your Executive Assistant Lee shares a practical example of creating a virtual EA to manage his calendar, pre-meeting briefs, and task reminders. 00:24:10 Building a Company "Brain" A complex use case is detailed: creating a central database that ingests all company communications for deep contextual analysis. 00:27:11 The Power of Personal Context for AI The idea of feeding personal journals and thoughts into an AI to give it deeper context for decision-making. 00:29:47 How Top Brands Automate Operations Lee...

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley shares his blueprint for scaling an e-commerce brand beyond Amazon through a strategic omnichannel approach. Drawing from over a decade of experience, Josh debunks the myth that simply adding sales channels drives growth. Instead, he outlines a phased expansion strategy: master Amazon first, then expand to marketplaces, TikTok Shop, Shopify, and retail. He emphasizes building documented systems, hiring capable teams, and approaching each platform as a unique business to avoid operational chaos and achieve sustainable, long-term growth. Links and Mentions: Tools and Websites "Amazon": "00:01:50" "Shopify": "00:01:50" "TikTok Shop": "00:01:50" "Walmart": "00:01:50" "Etsy": "00:26:43" "Temu": "00:26:43" "Shein": "00:26:43" "Meta Ad Library": "00:46:35" "Faire": "00:49:22" Videos and Masterclasses "Seven Step Hiring Process": "00:23:36" "CEO Dashboard": "00:25:44" "How We Generated Over 50 Viral Videos with Our Affiliates": "00:34:32" "How to Double Down on the Creators that are Actually Driving Sales for Your Brand": "00:34:32" Recommendations "Loom": "00:19:01" "ChatGPT": "00:20:01" Key Concepts "Omnichannel Strategy": "00:07:22" "CAC to LTV Ratio": "00:09:20" "Product Launch Checklist": "00:19:01" "Weekly Ad Optimization Processes": "00:19:01" "Inventory Forecasting Models": "00:19:01" Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction & The Omnichannel Myth Josh introduces himself, the podcast, and debunks the myth that simply adding channels guarantees growth. 00:01:50 Stages of E-commerce Brand Growth Outlines the four stages: launch on Amazon, expansion optimism, hidden complexity, and the breaking point. 00:06:30 The Real Problem: Sequence, Not Product Explains that chaos comes from scaling too soon without systems, not from product quality. 00:07:22 Channel-Specific Complexities Breaks down the unique operational demands ...

In this episode, host Josh interviews Will Russell, CEO of Russell Marketing, about effective strategies for launching e-commerce products. Will shares his five-step framework, emphasizing audience building through paid ads, partnerships, virality, and organic growth. They discuss practical tactics for Amazon sellers, such as using product insert cards with QR codes, leveraging surveys for product validation, and segmenting email lists for launch campaigns. Will highlights the importance of nurturing existing customers and using their feedback for product development. The episode offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs aiming to maximize launch success and scale their businesses efficiently. Chapters: Introduction to Will Russell and Russell Marketing (00:00:00) Will Russell’s background, agency achievements, and book introduction. Strategies for Building an Engaged Audience Pre-Launch (00:00:55) Overview of paid acquisition, piggybacking/partnerships, virality, and organic growth for audience building. Piggybacking and Partnerships Explained (00:01:20) How to leverage existing communities and partnerships to access target audiences. Virality and Organic Growth (00:02:47) Discussion of viral marketing, influencer strategies, and the role of organic content. Summary of Audience-Building Approaches (00:03:53) Recap of paid, partnership, viral, and organic methods for audience growth. Leveraging Existing Customer Bases for Product Validation (00:05:07) Using current customers for product validation, feedback, and preorders to reduce launch risk. The Value of Existing Communities in Launches (00:07:11) How established audiences give a head start and lower costs for new product launches. Applying the Five-Step Framework to Amazon Sellers (00:08:14) Host introduces actionable takeaways, adapting Will’s framework for Amazon product launches. Step 1: Product Validation Tactics (00:09:26) Using product inserts, QR codes, and Amazon analytics to validate new product ideas. Step 2: Audience Building and Customer Surveys (00:10:37) Reaching out to existing customers, using surveys to identify pain points and refine products. Step 3: Audience Engagement During Product Development (00:11:50) Keeping customers involved in product design and updates to build anticipation and loyalty. Step 4: Conversion Strategies and List Segmentation (00:13:05) Segmenting email lists for staggered launch campaigns to optimize Amazon ranking and conversions. Step 5: Scaling and Ongoing Audience Engagement (00:14:02) Using product inserts and ongoing engagement to prepare for future launches and scale the business. Review Research and Copywriting Insights (00:14:28) Using competitor reviews for product development and marketing language. Segmentation Strategies for Different Launch Models (00:15:19) How to segment audiences for Amazon vs. crowdfunding launches, prioritizing likely converters. Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:17:01) Recap, book recommendation, and closing remarks. Links and Mentions: Advertising Tools: "Facebook Ads": "00:01:20" "Google Ads": "00:01:20" "Reddit Ads": "00:01:20" "Amazon Brand Analytics": "00:10:37" Books: "Take Your Idea from Light Bulb Moment to Profitable Business in Record Time" by Will Russell: "00:00:52" Marketing Concepts and Strategies: "Piggybacking": "00:01:20" "Virality": "00:02:47" "Organic Growth": "00:03:53" "Customer Surveys": "00:06:02" "Product Insert Cards": "00:09:26" "Segmentation for Email/Text Lists": "00:13:05" Content and Influencer Strategies: "User-Generated Content": "00:02:47" "Influencer Marketing": "00:02:47" "Referral Strategies": "00:02:47" Transcript: Josh 00:00:00 Today I'm super excited to introduce you to Will Russell. He is the CEO and founder of Russell Marketing. Russell Marketing is an innovative digital agency specializing in e-commerce launch marketing. To date, they have generated more than 25 million in revenue for over 300...

Today on the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, we’re joined by a true expert at the intersection of technology, data, and e-commerce growth. Ellis Whitehead is the co-founder of DataBrill and a leading mind in PPC management, data science, and business intelligence space. With a PhD in automation and years of experience architecting smart technology for Amazon sellers, Ellis has helped brands leverage data-driven strategies to scale profitably and stay ahead of the competition. He’s here to share how sellers can use advanced analytics and Ai to break through the seven-figure ceiling and unlock the path to eight figures and beyond. Ellis, welcome to the show! Highlight Bullets > Here’s a glimpse of what you would learn…. In this episode, host Josh Hadley interviews Ellis Whitehead, co-founder of Data Brill, about how seven-figure e-commerce sellers can leverage AI and data to scale effectively. Ellis outlines a four-step “data chain” for success: centralizing data, capturing historical records, connecting disparate data sources, and building guardrails for AI. They discuss common pitfalls, the importance of solid data infrastructure, and actionable hiring advice for building in-house data teams. The episode emphasizes that AI is only as powerful as the data foundation supporting it, offering practical strategies for sustainable e-commerce growth. Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode: Prioritize Data Infrastructure: Make Data-Driven Decisions: Leverage AI Only After Laying the Foundation: Timestamp: 00:00:00 Podcast Introduction Leveraging AI and data for scaling e-commerce businesses. 00:00:58 Guest Introduction Ellis Whitehead’s background and expertise in data, PPC, and Amazon seller growth are introduced. 00:02:00 AI Hype & Seller Challenges Discussion about the overwhelming AI chatter among e-commerce sellers and the feeling of being left behind. 00:02:37 The Importance of Fundamentals Ellis emphasizes sticking to business fundamentals despite rapid technological changes. 00:03:11 Common Data Mistakes in E-commerce Ellis introduces the “data chain” concept and outlines common mistakes sellers make with data and AI. 00:05:07 Overview of the Four Data Chain Links Ellis lists the four essential links: centralized data, capturing history, connecting data sources, and constructing guardrails. 00:07:29 Step 1: Centralizing Data Detailed explanation of why a structured database (like Postgres) is crucial versus using spreadsheets or shared drives. 00:09:21 Technical Setup for Centralized Data Differences between databases and shared drives, and why structure, speed, and reliability matter. 00:11:38 Non-Technical Founders & Getting Help Advice for non-technical founders: learning, hiring, or consulting for proper data setup. 00:15:14 Ongoing Maintenance Caveat Ellis explains that data systems require ongoing maintenance due to changing APIs and data sources. 00:16:45 Ways to Ingest Data Different methods for getting data into databases: APIs, manual downloads, and handling multiple currencies. 00:19:15 Navigating Amazon API Access Challenges and solutions for brands seeking Amazon API access, including using third-party services. 00:21:45 Step 2: Capturing History Why historical data is vital for trend analysis, forecasting, and making informed decisions. 00:24:27 Use Cases for Historical Data Examples of how historical data helps with leading indicators, seasonality, and strategic decision-making. 00:26:30 Pitfalls of Ignoring Trends Dangers of relying on static data blocks and the importance of trend analysis for inventory and forecasting. 00:29:10 AI Automation Cautionary Tale Risks of automating decisions without proper context and historical data. 00:31:01 Tracking Keyword Popularity Over Time How tracking keyword trends can explain sales drops and inform campaign adjustments. 00:33:24 Step 3: Connecting the Dots Combining disparate data sources to calculate...

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast, host Josh Hadley introduces his "TikTok Creator Engine," a structured system for turning product samples into loyal brand evangelists. Josh outlines five creator stages—Inactivated, Activated, Emerging, Performing, and Evangelist—and explains how to move creators through each using personalized outreach, gamification, community building, and targeted ad spend. He also details key team roles, essential KPIs, and onboarding strategies to replace the ineffective "spray and pray" approach with a scalable, relationship-driven affiliate program that generates consistent revenue. Links and Mentions: Tools and Websites "TikTok Creator Engine": "00:01:12" "Shopify": "00:01:12" "Amazon": "00:01:12" "WhatsApp": "00:09:34" "CRM (Creator Relationship Management System)": "00:11:42" "TikTok Shop": "00:10:40" "Fulfilled by TikTok": "00:13:55" "Amazon MCF (Multi-Channel Fulfillment)": "00:13:55" "Beehive": "21:31" "Discord": "22:31" "ChatGPT": "23:39" Videos and Playlists "YouTube Onboarding Videos": "00:18:51" "YouTube Playlist for New Creators": "24:27" Concepts and Strategies "Creative Briefs": "23:39" "Creative Brief": "00:42:53" "Bingo Card Game": "28:51" "Ad Spend Strategy": "00:39:18" "Performance Coach Role": "00:41:54" "Affiliate Support Specialist Role": "00:41:54" "VIP Program": "00:43:50" "Monthly Contests": "00:44:43" "Personalized Contests": "00:48:19" "Weekly Creator Calls": "26:10" Metrics and KPIs "Contact Information Capture": "00:51:08" "Performance Metrics": "00:52:56" "Pareto Principle": "00:45:38" "Gamification": "00:44:43" Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introducing the TikTok Creator Engine A systematic process to turn product samples into loyal brand evangelists, focusing on consistent revenue over viral moments. 00:01:12 Host Introduction Josh Hadley shares his background as an e-commerce entrepreneur, father, and host of the E-com Breakthrough podcast. 00:02:17 Core Principles of the System The system focuses on inspiring creators, tracking behavior, doubling down on winners, and ignoring the rest based on performance. 00:04:10 Common Problems with Creator Programs Outlines issues brands face, such as creators not posting, one-off videos, wasted samples, and overreliance on TikTok DMs. 00:06:49 The Five Stages of the Creator Engine An overview of the five distinct stages creators move through: Inactivated, Activated, Emerging, Performing, and Brand Evangelist. 00:10:40 The Required Team Structure Details the three essential team roles needed to run the engine: Affiliate Support Specialist, Performance Coach, and Store Operations. 00:15:03 Stage 1: Inactivated Creators Focuses on approving samples and, most importantly, capturing the creator's contact information to move them out of TikTok DMs. 00:17:53 The 30-Day Onboarding Sequence A detailed breakdown of the first 30 days of communication, including emails and WhatsApp messages for new creators. 00:21:31 Tools for the Activation Program Discusses essential tools for creator activation, including email newsletters, community platforms like WhatsApp, and detailed creative briefs. 00:24:27 The YouTube Onboarding Playlist Outlines a mini-course for creators covering mindset, hook strategy, lighting, audio, and success stories to build relationships. 00:28:51 Gamifying Onboarding: The Bingo Card A gamified "bingo card" system that incentivizes new creators to complete key tasks like posting multiple videos. 00:30:42 Stage 2: Activated Creators Covers the team's actions once a creator posts their first video, including congratulations and providing initial feedback. 00:33:29 High ROI Move: Boosting Videos with Ads A strategy to use small, targeted ad spend on new creators' videos to generate initial views and sales. 00:35:29 Stage 3: Emerging Creators The goal for this stage is to build consistency with creators who have momentum but aren't posting regularly. 00:40:13...

In this episode, Josh interviews Amy Wees, CEO of Amazing at Home E-commerce Consulting. Amy shares her expertise in product development, sourcing, and sales, emphasizing the benefits of diversifying manufacturing—particularly sourcing from Mexico as an alternative to China. She discusses Mexico’s advantages in cost, quality, and logistics, and highlights common mistakes sellers make, such as not knowing their numbers or lacking supplier contracts. Amy stresses the importance of understanding unit economics, building strong supplier relationships, and differentiating products to succeed in today’s competitive e-commerce landscape. Chapters: Introduction to Amy Wees and Amazing at Home (00:00:00) Amy Wees is introduced as CEO of Amazing at Home, specializing in private label product launches and e-commerce consulting. Why Source from Mexico? (00:00:28) Amy discusses the importance of diversifying manufacturing, highlighting Mexico’s advantages over China for sourcing and supply chain. Mexico’s Manufacturing Capabilities (00:02:04) Explains Mexico’s strengths in injection molding, electronics, labor costs, and free trade agreements compared to China. Evolving Supply Chains and Workforce Trends (00:03:25) Describes changes in China’s workforce, supply chain challenges, and the need for businesses to adapt and evolve. Discovering and Building Trade Shows in Mexico (00:05:35) Amy shares her journey in exploring Mexican factories and starting a multi-category trade show for sourcing. Common Seller Mistakes: Not Knowing the Numbers (00:07:34) Amy identifies the main mistake sellers make: not understanding their costs, margins, and unit economics. Protecting Supply Chains and Supplier Relationships (00:10:12) Emphasizes the importance of contracts, vetting suppliers, and protecting products from being copied. Josh’s Key Takeaways for Sellers (00:12:16) Josh summarizes three action items: know your numbers, build strong supplier relationships, and differentiate your products. How to Connect with Amy Wees (00:16:35) Amy offers a free listing review and shares how listeners can contact her for e-commerce advice. Podcast Closing (00:17:05) Josh thanks Amy for joining the podcast. Links and Mentions: Tools and Websites "Amazing at Home": "00:00:00" "Alibaba": "00:08:59" "Free Listing Review": "00:16:35" Books and Resources "Seller Accountant": "00:12:16" Key Takeaways "Understanding Your Numbers": "00:12:16" "Supplier Relationships": "00:14:37" "Market Evaluation": "00:15:57" Transcript: Josh 00:00:00 Today I'm super excited to introduce you to Amy Wees. Amy is the CEO of Amazing at Home E-commerce consulting, a world renowned company that has helped thousands of brands launch private label products on Amazon and beyond. Amy's knowledge in product development, sourcing, marketing and sales have enabled her to help countless entrepreneurs develop their own successful businesses. So welcome to the show, Amy. Amy 00:00:25 Thank you for having me, Josh. I'm so excited to be here. Josh 00:00:28 I love what you talked about in terms of, you know, diversifying your risk with manufacturing and supply chain, and you've been able to find a lot of that in Mexico. So why don't you tell us more about Mexico? Why have you been so invested lately into, you know, sourcing from Mexico? Amy 00:00:49 Well, you know, it's really we used to go to China all the time. You can go twice a year during canton fair times. And and I still sourced from China. I, I love my manufacturers in China. They're wonderful people. They're very efficient. Amy 00:01:04 Really great. So I don't think that there's anything wrong with China. But at the end of the day, one of the biggest things that all of us have to realize is that we have options and, and that, you know, we don't ever whether it comes to only selling on Amazon, putting your eggs all in that one sales channel basket or only using FBA. What happened during the pandemic? Everybody...

Today’s guest is someone our audience already knows and respects — and I’m excited to have him back on the show. Kevin King is not just a veteran Amazon seller… he’s one of the most connected and influential figures in the entire Amazon ecosystem. He’s been selling online for decades, has built and exited multiple brands, and continues to operate in the trenches — not from theory, but from real-world execution. When Kevin speaks, it’s not just his own experience — it’s insights gathered from the top 1% of sellers globally. So if you’re a 7-figure or 8 figure seller looking to break into the next level, you’re about to hear from someone who has a front-row seat to what the best in the world are actually doing right now. Highlight Bullets > Here’s a glimpse of what you would learn…. In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews veteran Amazon seller Kevin King about the future of e-commerce for established seven-figure sellers. They discuss the growing impact of AI, the decline of traditional private label models, and the rise of social commerce platforms like TikTok. Kevin emphasizes the importance of building real brands, leveraging automation, and focusing on human relationships with creators. The episode also highlights actionable strategies for scaling, the value of strong systems, and Kevin’s upcoming Market Masters event for networking and learning. Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode: 1. Focus on What Matters Most Don’t chase every new tool, channel, or strategy. Pick the highest-priority opportunity, focus your resources on it, and scale it before moving to the next. 2. Build and Document Systems Growth requires clear systems and processes. Whether tasks are done by humans or AI, success depends on how well you document and structure the workflow. 3. Hire Smart People to Run the Systems AI alone won’t build a $100M brand. You need talented leaders who can design, manage, and improve systems while using AI as a tool to enhance results. Resources mentioned in this episode: Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastJosh@eCommBreakthrough.comBillion Dollar Seller SummitASM (Amazing Selling Machine)Helium 10ShopifyTikTokEcom Mastery AIOpen ClawClaudeChatGPTWooCommerceCopyCoderUpwork/FiverrAndrew EricksonSpecial Mention(s): Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInAlex Hormozi on LinkedInRyan DeissPerry Belcher on LinkedInDan KennedyRelated Episode(s): “Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist’s Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King’s Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastEpisode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started my business in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years. I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks. If you’ve hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then email me at josh@ecommbreakthrough.com and in your subject line say “strategy audit” for the chance to win a $10,000 comprehensive business strategy audit at no cost! Transcript Area Kevin King 00:00:00 And there is no it's not like ranking in Google in the old way of backlinks where you rank. And basically you can if you type in podcast microphones and you're in Dallas, you can see pretty much the same results as I see down here in Austin with AI, my past search history and your past search history changes that...

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley shares hard-won lessons on the power of focus in scaling an ecommerce business. Drawing from personal experience and mastermind insights, Josh reveals five key things he’s saying “no” to—like low-volume product launches, unprofitable SKUs, and distracting sales channels. He emphasizes prioritizing high-impact opportunities, leveraging top-performing creators, and resisting shiny new trends like AI experiments. Josh’s disciplined approach highlights how saying “no” to distractions enables entrepreneurs to concentrate resources on what truly drives sustainable, exponential growth. Links and Mentions: Business Influencers & References "Alex Hormozi": "00:02:01" E-commerce Platforms & Tools "Amazon": "00:04:43" "Shopify": "00:06:31" "TikTok Shop": "00:06:31" "Amazon Marketplace": "00:20:16" "OpenClaw": "00:23:05" "Vibe Coding": "00:23:05" Frameworks & Systems "Momentum Matrix": "00:08:26" "Buckets for Product Management": "00:08:26" Business Concepts & Strategies "Hitting Singles vs. Home Runs": "00:04:43" "Total Addressable Market (TAM)": "00:06:31" "Lifetime Value Potential": "00:20:16" "Operational Complexity": "00:21:14" Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction to Business Focus Josh emphasizes prioritization, focus, and the importance of saying "no" in business strategy. 00:01:03 Lessons from Mastermind Events Insights from recent mastermind groups; entrepreneurs struggle with shiny object syndrome and diversifying too soon. 00:02:58 The Power of Doubling Down Advice to focus on one business for greater success, rather than splitting attention across multiple ventures. 00:04:43 Saying No to Small Product Launches Josh now rejects launching products with small markets, focusing only on those with large total addressable markets. 00:07:25 Prioritizing High-Impact SKUs No longer trying to scale all 1600+ SKUs; products are categorized by impact and focus is on top performers. 00:08:26 Product Momentum Matrix Explained Breakdown of four product buckets: sunset, maintenance, profit engines, and brand-defining SKUs. 00:15:09 Focusing on Brand-Defining Products Team spends most time on a few top SKUs that align with brand vision and have high growth potential. 00:17:05 Saying No to Low Leverage Sales Channels Rejecting channels like Temu, Shein, Walmart, and some international expansions due to low scalability and complexity. 00:18:12 Sales Channel Momentum Matrix Sales channels are categorized; focus is on scalable, high-leverage channels like Amazon, TikTok Shop, and Shopify. 00:22:11 Rejecting AI Distractions Josh avoids spending time on AI trends unless they directly drive business growth; team uses AI only for specific use cases. 00:26:56 Focusing on Top-Performing Creators No longer catering to all 5000 creators; focus is on the top 5% who drive 95% of TikTok Shop revenue. 00:28:03 Conclusion: Focus Over Distraction Reiterates the importance of focus and systems for scaling, and invites listeners to share the episode. Transcript Josh Hadley 00:00:00 I will promise you like 99 times out of 100. The person who doubles down in one single business is going to have far greater returns and success than the entrepreneur that thinks they're going to split their time and diversify themselves across multiple different business units. Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast. I'm Josh Hadley. I've scaled my own ecommerce brand from 0 to 8 figures, and I'm actively building towards nine figures in sales. This podcast is where I document that journey and share the systems, the strategies, and the lessons learned in real time so that you can learn what actually matters and scale your own business. In today's episode, I'm going to be sharing with you guys exactly what I'm saying no to. In my business right now, that is one of the most important things as it relates to business strategy as a whole. I think that business strategy is...

In this episode, host Josh interviews Tyler Jefcoat, founder of The Seller Roundtable, about financial strategies for Amazon and e-commerce sellers. Tyler explains key metrics like COGS, Amazon fees, and advertising costs, and shares actionable tips on optimizing profit margins, managing inventory, and preparing for business exits. He emphasizes the importance of accurate accounting, SKU-level analysis, and disciplined habits for long-term success. The discussion also covers useful tools and resources, including Merchant Spring and the book "Atomic Habits." Listeners gain practical advice to build more profitable and acquisition-ready e-commerce businesses. Chapters: Introduction to Tyler Jefcoat and Seller Accountant (00:00:00) Tyler’s background, experience, and introduction to his work with e-commerce sellers. Key Financial Metrics for Amazon Sellers (00:00:38) Breakdown of revenue, cost of goods sold (COGS), Amazon fees, and advertising expenses. Profit Margins and Targets for Sellers (00:01:44) Discussion of ideal net profit margins, advertising spend, and benchmarks for healthy Amazon businesses. Net Profit Margin Benchmarks and Market Trends (00:03:59) Analysis of average net profit margins, market headwinds, and acquisition readiness. Preparing for Exit: Case Study and Best Practices (00:05:01) Advice and case study on preparing for business exit, including accounting and inventory management. Return on Capital and Product Portfolio Analysis (00:06:54) Explanation of return on capital, product-level profitability, and portfolio optimization. FBA Fees and SKU-Level Analysis (00:10:18) Importance of monitoring Amazon FBA fees, SKU-level analysis, and correcting fulfillment fee errors. Automating FBA Fee Audits (00:11:45) Discussion on automating FBA fee audits and best practices for large catalogs. Three Actionable Takeaways for Sellers (00:12:59) Summary of three key actions: solid accounting, SKU-level profitability, and price testing. Book Recommendation: Atomic Habits (00:15:40) Tyler recommends "Atomic Habits" by James Clear and discusses its impact. Favorite Software Tool: Merchant Spring (00:16:46) Recommendation and overview of Merchant Spring for multi-channel sales integration. Closing Remarks and Contact Info (00:17:28) Final thoughts, recommendation to contact Tyler, and episode wrap-up. Links and Mentions: Tools and Websites "Merchant Spring": "00:16:46" Books "Atomic Habits by James Clear": "00:15:49" Transcript: Josh 00:00:00 Today, I'm excited to introduce you to Tyler Jefcoat. Tyler is the founder and CEO of Stellar Accountant, where he exercises his passion for helping sellers maximize their businesses. Tyler provides financial coaching for sellers totaling more than 100 million per year in e-commerce sales. Tyler also leads the Sellers Roundtable, an exclusive mastermind group for seven and eight figure sellers. Before founding Seller Accountant, Tyler was the co-founder and managing partner for Care to Continue, a home health care company that grew from 0 to 100 employees in four years. So, Tyler, welcome to the show. Tyler 00:00:36 All right, Josh, thanks for having me. Josh 00:00:38 So you have your top line revenue. The next thing we have is you're going to have your cost of goods sold, right? So with your cost of goods sold, you said the average is about 30 to 35% is what you're seeing right now. Tyler 00:00:52 And this kind of landed cost. So if you kind of think about what it costs you to satisfy your Chinese Po and then do the duties freight into the states, I think. Tyler 00:01:01 Across the board, we're seeing literally pretty close to a third 33, 34%. Josh 00:01:05 So if you're below 30% or so, that's a good indication then. Right. Okay. Looking good. All right then next you have your Amazon fees that are going to come up. Right. And I think I'm going to split these up with the advertising separate. So what is your Amazon fees that your 15% commission...

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Julia Rubien and Nicolette Brunetti of Amie, a TikTok agency for beauty brands. They discuss effective affiliate marketing strategies on TikTok Shop, emphasizing the importance of strong shop operations, community building, and data-driven content. The conversation covers commission structures, contests, retainers, and creator engagement, highlighting the need for strategic planning and long-term investment. Key takeaways include selling the affiliate first, nurturing a supportive community, and ensuring operational readiness before scaling. The episode offers actionable insights for brands aiming to succeed on TikTok Shop. Highlight Bullets > Here’s a glimpse of what you would learn…. Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode: Sell the Affiliate First (Not the Product) Build a Creator Growth Ladder: Make it obvious how creators can level up with you. Fix Operations Before Scaling Affiliates: Don’t scale affiliate traffic to a backend that can’t support it. Get your foundation right first. Resources mentioned in this episode: TikTok ShopEukaAIKaloDataReacherFastmossDiscordGMV (Gross Merchandise Value)ChatGPTecombreakthrough.comSpecial Mention(s): Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s): “Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist’s Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King’s Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastSponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started Hadley Designs in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years. I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks. If you’ve hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then go to www.EcommBreakthrough.com (that’s Ecomm with two M’s) to learn more. Transcript Julia Rubien 00:00:00 I think clients think that sometimes it's as simple as, let's just invite everybody to a target plan, and that's that. And one time I had to write out for clients, like all the different strategies that go into affiliate marketing, and without showing the slide, I'll kind of rattle some off. But to us, we think there's acquisition strategy, there's commission strategy, there's engagement strategy, there's partnership strategy, there's sample strategy, tiering strategy, incentive strategy, event strategy, content strategy. So there's all these different strategies. MC 00:00:36 Welcome to the Ecom Breakthrough podcast. Are you ready to unlock the full potential and growth in your business? You've already crossed seven figures in sales, but the challenge is knowing how to take your business to the next level. Josh Hadley 00:00:50 Do you want to know what's actually working on TikTok shop right now? What are the strategies some of the top brands are implementing in order to grow their shop sells or attract new affiliates. Well, you're going to love today's conversation. Welcome to the Econ Breakthrough Podcast. Josh Hadley 00:01:05 I'm your host, Josh Hadley. I scaled my own brand from 0 to 8 figures in sales, and now my mission is to take it to over nine figures on my jour...

In this episode of the "Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast," host Josh Hadley shares his "essential cash flow playbook" for scaling e-commerce brands without outside capital. He explains how to forecast cash flow, delay payments to suppliers and ad platforms, and strategically use credit cards to extend payment cycles by up to 55 days. Josh details practical tactics, such as rotating credit cards and using services to pay suppliers, to improve cash conversion cycles and avoid debt. He emphasizes the importance of disciplined cash flow management as the foundation for sustainable, rapid business growth. Links and Mentions: Tools and Strategies "Cash Flow Forecasting Spreadsheet": "00:04:53" "Credit Card Hack": "00:15:46" "Amex Plum Card": "00:20:12" Quotes "Charlie Munger Quote": "00:13:53" Websites "Amazon Advertising Support": "00:16:38" Credit Cards and Financial Tools "Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business": "00:22:46" "Amex Gold": "00:22:46" "Chase Business Preferred": "00:22:46" "Chase Business Premier": "00:22:46" "Capital One Spark Cash Plus": "00:22:46" Payment Services "Melio": "00:24:56" Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction & Episode Overview Josh introduces the podcast, his background, and previews the main topic: the essential cash flow playbook for e-commerce. 00:00:57 The Hidden Strategy Behind Top E-commerce Brands Explains why cash flow management is the secret to scaling without outside capital, especially for bootstrapped entrepreneurs. 00:01:54 The E-commerce Cash Flow Challenge Discusses common struggles with cash flow, inventory, and taxes that e-commerce brands face. 00:03:50 Personal Cash Flow Crisis Story Josh shares a personal story about nearly missing payroll and the dangers of taking on debt. 00:04:53 The Importance of Cash Flow Forecasting Introduces the cash flow forecasting spreadsheet as a critical business tool. 00:05:56 How the Cash Flow Spreadsheet Works Describes how to use the spreadsheet to track inflows, outflows, and anticipate cash shortages. 00:07:09 Forecasting Purchase Orders and Launch Timing Explains how to use forecasting to time purchase orders and product launches for optimal cash flow. 00:08:08 Spreadsheet Walkthrough: Weekly Cash Tracking Step-by-step example of tracking weekly cash balances, payments, and Amazon disbursements. 00:11:04 Identifying Cash Shortfalls and Solutions Shows how the spreadsheet highlights cash shortfalls and introduces strategies to avoid predatory loans. 00:12:57 When (and When Not) to Use Debt Discusses rare scenarios where loans make sense and why most e-commerce brands should avoid debt. 00:13:53 The Dangers of Leverage Without Financial Sophistication Warns about the risks of leverage for those without advanced financial modeling skills. 00:14:54 Credit Card Hack: Delaying Payments Introduces the credit card hack to delay payments to vendors and ad platforms, extending cash flow. 00:16:38 Increasing Amazon Billing Thresholds Explains how to request higher billing thresholds from Amazon to increase payment float. 00:17:34 Paying Ad Charges with Multiple Credit Cards Advises on using multiple credit cards with staggered statement dates to maximize payment delays. 00:18:19 Credit Card Application Hack Shares a tip for applying for multiple credit cards simultaneously to minimize credit score impact. 00:19:08 Optimizing Statement Dates for Maximum Float Details how to schedule charges for the start of statement periods to get up to 55 days of float. 00:20:12 Amex Plum Card for Extended Float Describes using the Amex Plum card for up to 90 days of payment float, with trade-offs. 00:21:06 Seasonal Cash Flow Management Example Shows how to use these strategies during high-spend periods like Q4 to avoid cash crunches. 00:21:57 Rotating Credit Cards & Tracking Rewards Explains how to rotate credit cards and track perks, rewards, and statement dates for ongoing float. 00:22:46 Recommended Business Credit...

In this episode, the host interviews Amazon and e-commerce expert Bradley Sutton, who shares actionable strategies for successful Amazon product launches. Bradley discusses natural keyword integration, backend optimization, and advanced Helium 10 tools like Historical Cerebro and inventory management. He highlights the importance of monitoring Amazon listing changes with alerts to avoid costly mistakes, and offers advice on budgeting for product launches. The episode concludes with Bradley’s personal recommendations and tips for staying informed, providing valuable insights for Amazon sellers aiming to optimize listings, manage finances, and scale their businesses effectively. Chapters: Introduction to Bradley Sutton and Amazon Listing Strategies (00:00:00) Bradley shares his background, passion for Amazon, and discusses incorporating top keywords into product listings naturally. Where to Add Keywords in Listings (00:01:15) Explains ideal keyword placement: bullets, description, backend search terms, subject matter, and special features fields. Special Features Field and Indexing Speed (00:02:47) Describes the special features field, its rapid indexing, and cautions against keyword stuffing since it appears on the listing. Advanced Helium 10 Tools for Launches (00:04:15) Introduces Helium 10 Elite tools like Historical Cerebro for seasonal keyword research and their advantages over traditional methods. Sponsored Ad Placements and New Page One Strategies (00:06:46) Discusses the proliferation of sponsored ad placements on Amazon’s first page and the need for updated launch strategies. Three Actionable Takeaways for Product Launches (00:08:37) Host summarizes three key takeaways: title keyword density, running CPR via Amazon ads, and budgeting for initial losses. Financial Acumen and Scaling Successfully (00:10:57) Emphasizes the importance of understanding financials, budgeting, and cash flow to scale an Amazon business. Bradley’s Most Influential Business Book (00:12:07) Bradley recommends "The Four Disciplines of Execution" and explains its impact on goal setting and business growth. Underutilized Helium 10 Tools for Sellers (00:13:59) Highlights inventory management and alerts as underused tools, sharing a cautionary tale about ignoring alerts. Where to Follow Bradley Sutton (00:16:45) Bradley shares where listeners can follow him: Serious Sellers Podcast, Helium 10 Facebook group, and Instagram. Links and Mentions: Tools and Websites "Helium 10 Listing Analyzer": "00:01:51" "Helium 10 Cerebro": "00:05:09" "Helium 10 Black Box": "00:05:53" "Helium 10 Alerts": "00:14:13" "Helium 10": "00:15:07" Additional Resources "Brand Analytics": "00:05:09" Books "The Four Disciplines of Execution": "00:12:07" Podcasts "Serious Sellers Podcast": "00:16:45" Social Media Links "Helium 10 Members Facebook Group": "00:16:45" "Bradley Sutton on Instagram": "00:16:45" Key Takeaways "Alerts for SKUs": "00:15:07" Transcript: Josh 00:00:00 Today I'm super excited to introduce you to Bradley Sutton. Bradley is passionate about everything Amazon and e-commerce. He can talk about anything really. Launch strategy. Keyword research, the Amazon algorithm and everything in between. He has launched hundreds of products on Amazon for himself and clients, and he is privileged to host the most listened to podcast in the world for Amazon sellers. The Serious Sellers Podcast. Meeting helium ten customers around the world is his favorite thing to do with that. Welcome to the show, Bradley. Bradley 00:00:33 Thank you for having me here. It's great to be here. Josh 00:00:35 My question to you, Bradley, is you talked about add some of the top keywords into your listing. Where do you add them into your listing? because I could foresee an issue of, for example, maybe you're selling a calendar, right? And a pen. There's one particular type of pen, or it's a set of markers or something, right. That keeps showing up in the...

Josh started his career at American Airlines (AA) and spent 5 years in their MBA leadership development program. Josh’s experience at AA further refined his leadership abilities and strategic decision making skills. While employed at AA Josh and his wife Becca started Hadley Designs. As the CEO of Hadley Designs, Josh led the business to gross $100,000+ in revenue within it’s first year and in 2022 Hadley Designs crossed the eight figure mark, grossing over $10,000,000 in revenue. In the ever-evolving world of e-commerce, standing still means falling behind. In a recent episode of the Ecom Breakthrough Podcast, host and eight-figure brand owner Josh Hadley pulls back the curtain on the real struggles and breakthrough strategies that have propelled his business from the brink of collapse to new heights. This episode is a masterclass for e-commerce entrepreneurs looking to scale beyond seven figures, with a special focus on leveraging TikTok Shop, affiliate marketing, and integrated sales funnels across Amazon and Shopify. Highlight Bullets > Here’s a glimpse of what you would learn…. In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley shares his journey overcoming business setbacks and reveals his proven strategies for scaling e-commerce brands on Amazon, Shopify, and TikTok Shop. He details how he rebuilt his business using TikTok Shop affiliate marketing, building a network of creators, and optimizing sales funnels. Josh emphasizes the importance of creator partnerships, viral content, and subscription models, offering listeners a step-by-step blueprint for driving growth and profitability in today’s competitive e-commerce landscape. He also provides actionable tips and resources for brands seeking to break through stagnation and achieve lasting success. Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode: Target Niche Creators with Email CollectionRequire 30 Videos + Usage Rights UpfrontTurn Amazon Products into High-AOV Shopify Funnels Resources & Links Section Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastJosh@eCommBreakthrough.comTikTok ShopAmazonShopifyChatGPTEuka AIKalodataStreakWooCommerce

In this solo episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley shares his proven framework for hiring senior leadership in ecommerce. Drawing from personal experience, Josh outlines the costly pitfalls of bad hires and emphasizes the value of securing top 1% talent. He details a structured, three-part interview process focused on track record, culture alignment, and role competence, offering actionable tips for assessing candidates. Josh also discusses the legal and financial implications of hiring, underscoring the importance of systems and focus for business growth. The episode concludes with a call to share and review the podcast. Hiring the wrong person can be a costly "hiring mistake" for any business, impacting your bottom line significantly. This video dives into effective "recruitment" strategies and a robust "hiring process" to help you avoid these pitfalls. Learn about crucial "interview questions" and how to "how to hire" the right talent to propel your e-commerce brand forward. 💥 #BusinessTips #EcommGrowth #HiringSmart #shorts Timestamps: 00:00:00 The Pitfalls of Charismatic Hires Josh warns against hiring based on charisma and first impressions, emphasizing the high cost of bad hires. 00:00:30 Introduction & Podcast Context Josh introduces himself, his ecommerce background, and the purpose of the episode: hiring top 1% senior leadership. 00:01:59 Early Hiring Mistakes Josh shares his initial lack of process, reliance on generic questions, and gut feelings when hiring. 00:04:10 The High Cost of a Bad Hire Breakdown of the financial, operational, and legal costs associated with hiring the wrong person. 00:06:05 Legal and Tax Implications of Remote Hires Explains state-specific legal and tax burdens when hiring remote W-2 employees. 00:08:07 The Power of Great Hires Discusses the transformative impact of hiring the right senior leaders and the compounding effect on business growth. 00:09:07 Overview of the Senior Leadership Hiring Framework Introduction to the three-lens framework: track record, culture alignment, and role competence. 00:10:03 Track Record of Performance Interview Details the first interview: assessing lifelong patterns of achievement, leadership, and initiative. 00:11:06 Conducting the Track Record Interview Step-by-step walkthrough of questions and techniques to uncover a candidate’s career trajectory and motivations. 00:13:30 Truth Serum Questions & Reference Checks How to use reference-based questions to get honest answers and verify candidate claims. 00:17:07 Identifying Top 1% Patterns What to look for in high school, college, and career history to spot elite performers. 00:23:50 Red Flags and Non-Redemption Policy Why you shouldn’t hire candidates with inconsistent success or those seeking a “redemption” opportunity. 00:24:49 Culture Alignment Interview Importance of culture fit, how to structure the interview, and why it’s non-negotiable for senior hires. 00:27:40 Core Values Deep Dive Examples of core values (Extreme Ownership, Relentless Innovation, Integrity) and how to probe for real-life demonstrations. 00:29:42 Role Competence/Technical Interview Evaluating if candidates can perform at a high level, think clearly, and bring deep expertise. 00:30:40 Metrics and Business Impact Questions Key questions to assess if candidates understand how their role drives business results. 00:35:25 Case Studies and Test Projects How to design and use practical assignments to verify real-world competence, and tips to prevent AI misuse. 00:39:10 Scoring and Rubrics for Test Projects The importance of objective scoring, rubrics, and not advancing candidates who underperform in practical tests. 00:40:03 Summary of the Three-Stage Framework Recap of the three interview stages and their combined power to identify and hire elite senior leaders. 00:42:07 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Josh encourages listeners to implement structured hiring, leave...

In this episode, host Josh interviews Pradeep, a scientist-turned-entrepreneur who built a seven-figure Amazon business in under a year. They discuss advanced strategies for Amazon sellers, focusing on negotiating cost of goods sold, building strong supplier partnerships, optimizing inventory and cash flow, and avoiding the pitfalls of launching too many products at once. Pradeep shares actionable tips on supplier negotiations, payment terms, and expense management, emphasizing the need for a sophisticated, business-minded approach to succeed in today’s competitive Amazon marketplace. Chapters: Introduction to Pradeep and His Background (00:00:00) Josh introduces Pradeep, his scientific background, and transition to Amazon e-commerce and asset acquisition. Beyond Basic Amazon Strategies (00:00:37) Discussion on moving past common optimization tactics to focus on COGS, supplier negotiation, logistics, and inventory. COGS Negotiation and Supplier Relationships (00:01:45) Pradeep explains the importance of negotiating COGS, exclusive agreements, and sophisticated supplier relationships. COGS Tracking and Unit Economics (00:04:19) Emphasis on tracking COGS, using software, and managing multiple brands and inventories. Inventory Management Pitfalls (00:05:44) Analysis of overstocking, poor forecasting, and leveraging inventory in distressed asset acquisitions. Amazon Warehousing Changes and Cash Flow (00:06:53) Transition to how Amazon’s warehousing changes impact cash flow and inventory strategies. Cash Flow Mistakes and Overspending (00:07:13) Discussion on unnecessary spending on consultants, poor HR choices, and excessive conference expenses. Negotiating Payment Terms for Cash Flow (00:09:42) Advice on negotiating 30-120 day payment terms with suppliers to improve cash flow and acquisition leverage. Launching Multiple Brands: Cautionary Advice (00:11:50) Warning against launching multiple brands/products without sufficient cash flow and the risks of overextending. Key Takeaways and Action Steps (00:13:04) Josh summarizes actionable steps: focus on supplier partnerships, negotiate terms, and improve cash flow management. Expense Management and Exit Planning (00:15:08) Highlighting the impact of recurring expenses on business valuation and the importance of efficient spending. Closing Remarks (00:15:57) Final thanks and acknowledgments as the episode concludes. Links and Mentions: Tools and Websites "Jungle Scout": "00:12:30" "Helium 10": "00:12:30" Key Takeaways "Supplier Partnership": "00:13:45" "Negotiation with Suppliers": "00:14:10" "Cash Flow Management": "00:15:08" Transcript: Josh 00:00:00 Today I am excited to introduce you to Pradeep. He is trained as a scientist at Oxford University and Harvard University, and then he became the vice president of Global Business development for a biotech company. During the pandemic, he found himself in a unique situation which led him to start his Amazon e-commerce business. He became a seven figure seller in just 11 months and now has a new business model of acquiring distressed assets, and he also owns a boutique Amazon account and launch management agency. So welcome to the podcast, Pradeep. Pradeep 00:00:36 Thank you so much. Josh 00:00:37 I love that you made the mention of when we go to conferences. And as you listen to speakers speak on stage or even listening to podcasts time and time again, we hear the same optimization strategies and the same keyword strategies, and it's just a new tool that people are using. But instead what you're saying is like, the hard stuff is what people aren't necessarily talking about. People aren't getting into the weeds of cogs and negotiating with suppliers and renegotiating on an ongoing basis, and the finer details of logistics and where you're warehousing things. Josh 00:01:14 And with Amazon, you know, reducing inventory limits across the board for people. What are people doing now to kind of prepare...

Dr. Mark Young, the Founder and CEO of Jekyll & Hyde Advertising, a powerhouse agency that’s been helping challenger consumer brands break through the noise and scale into household names with billions of revenue and exits for nearly three decades. He’s also the host of the CPG insiders podcast, the number 2 podcast in all consumer packaged goods niche. Mark is also the author of a new book 27 Unbreakable Rules of Retail, how to build a $100M+ brand in brick and mortar Mark is not your average marketer — his background blends neuroscience, persuasion, and behavioral psychology with decades of hands-on experience in CPG and direct-response advertising. Through his agency, Jekyll & Hyde, he’s helped hundreds of emerging brands launch, grow, and dominate retail shelves and online marketplaces. Highlight Bullets > Here’s a glimpse of what you would learn…. In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Dr. Mark Young, CEO of Jekyll and Hyde Advertising. Mark shares his expertise on building $100 million consumer brands in brick-and-mortar retail, emphasizing that 80% of product sales still occur offline. He discusses the challenges of retail entry, the importance of unique, premium products, and the power of TV advertising to drive demand. Mark also highlights the value of expert partnerships and leveraging both human intuition and AI, offering actionable advice for e-commerce brands aiming to succeed in physical retail. Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode: Prove Demand Before Approaching Retailers evidence of demandto their storesPosition Your Product as a Clear Upgrade or Category Expander Build a Retail-Ready P&L With Strong Margins & Media Plan minimum 5:1 markupfunded media strategy Resources mentioned in this episode: Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastJosh@eCommBreakthrough.comAmazonChatGPTShopifyHelium 10IRI (Information Resources, Inc.)Meta AdsWRTVJekyll+Hyde LabsCPG InsidersThinking, Fast and Slow"Who Not How" by Dan Sullivan and Ben Hardy"The Science of Scaling" by Dr. Ben HardyPrimal IntelligenceWalmartShark TankThe Home DepotDan SullivanSpecial Mention(s): Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s): “Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist’s Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King’s Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast

In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley shares hard-earned lessons from a cash flow crisis in January 2024, when his business couldn’t fund payroll. He explains how this pivotal moment led him to develop a “CEO dashboard” with three essential tools: the Weekly High Five Tracker, a departmental scorecard for leading indicators, and a 52-week cash flow forecast. Josh also reveals advanced credit card strategies to optimize cash flow, emphasizing proactive management, team accountability, and the importance of focusing on activities that drive results for sustainable business growth. Join Josh Hadley on the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast as he shares his journey scaling an ecommerce business from zero to eight figures. Discover essential business tips for effective business management, including strategies for tracking leading indicators, optimizing cash flow, and understanding key KPIs. This podcast is your guide to significant business growth and success. 🚀 Tools and Dashboards "Weekly High Five Tracker": "00:08:36" "Custom GPT for Role Profiles": "00:17:03" "Weekly Scorecard": "00:18:51" "Cash Flow Forecast Sheet": "00:26:10" Books "The One Thing by Gary Keller": "00:14:06" Websites and Services "ChatGPT": "00:16:06" "Melio": "00:39:37" "Plastiq": "00:39:37" Key Metrics and Indicators "Total Advertising Cost of Spend (TACOS)": "00:19:47" "Conversion Rate": "00:20:12" "Average Order Value (AOV)": "00:21:12" Credit Cards Mentioned "Chase Sapphire Reserve": "00:44:19" "Amex Gold Card": "00:44:19" "Amex Plum Card": "00:44:19" "Chase Business Preferred Card": "00:44:19" "Chase Business Premier": "00:44:19" "Capital One Spark Cash Plus": "00:44:19" "Citi Executive World Elite": "00:44:19" Concepts and Strategies "Credit Card Hack": "00:36:40" Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction to the CEO Dashboard Josh introduces the concept of the CEO Dashboard and the importance of tracking business health with three key reports. 00:00:58 Personal Story: Running Out of Cash Josh shares a pivotal January 2024 experience when his business couldn’t fund payroll, leading to key lessons learned. 00:01:52 Lessons Learned from the Cash Crisis Josh discusses the root causes of the cash shortfall: inventory issues, team misalignment, and lack of cash forecasting. 00:04:46 The CEO’s Three Key Priorities Josh outlines the CEO’s main responsibilities: casting vision, having the right people, and ensuring the business never runs out of cash. 00:05:38 Desert Island Exercise & Dashboard Mindset Josh introduces the “desert island” exercise and the mindset shift from lagging to leading indicators in business management. 00:06:32 Leading vs. Lagging Indicators Explained Explanation of leading and lagging metrics, and why CEOs should focus on leading indicators for future business impact. 00:08:36 Tool #1: Weekly High Five Tracker Introduction to the Weekly High Five Tracker, a tool for tracking the five most important weekly actions for each team member. 00:09:37 How the Weekly High Five Tracker Works Step-by-step process for using the tracker: team member input, manager review, and accountability conversations. 00:13:13 FAQs and Best Practices for the Tracker Josh answers common questions about the tracker, role profiles, and the importance of defining “the one thing” for each role. 00:16:06 Customizing Leading Actions for Your Team Advice on using ChatGPT to identify high-leverage actions for each role and building custom role profiles. 00:17:54 Tool #2: Weekly Scorecard Introduction to the Weekly Scorecard, which tracks leading indicators and metrics at the department level. 00:19:47 Examples of Departmental Leading Indicators Detailed examples of leading indicators for sales, marketing, product development, project management, and account health. 00:21:12 Year-over-Year Metrics and Warning Signals Importance of tracking year-over-year metrics to spot early warning signs and avoid...

In this episode, host Josh interviews Scott Deetz, an expert in helping Amazon and e-commerce entrepreneurs maximize business value and prepare for successful exits. Scott outlines the four pillars that make a business attractive to buyers: risk diversification, profitability, growth rate, and earnings size. He shares actionable tips, including building a data room, implementing monthly strategic finance reviews, and structuring accounting to maximize add-backs. Scott also discusses the importance of separating owner and business expenses to boost valuation, offering practical strategies for entrepreneurs aiming to scale and sell their businesses at top valuations. Chapters: Introduction to Scott Deetz and His Expertise (00:00:00) Scott is introduced as an expert in helping Amazon and e-commerce entrepreneurs grow and exit at top valuations. Defining a Valuable Platform: Four Key Pillars (00:00:18) Scott explains what makes a business a valuable "platform" for buyers: risk diversification, profitability, growth rate, and size of earnings. Deep Dive into the Four Pillars (00:01:07) Discussion of each pillar: risk diversification, profitability percentage, growth rate, and the importance of earnings size. Capital Strategy and Growth (00:03:25) Importance of capital strategy as a process, not an event, and how it fuels business growth. Recap of the Four Pillars (00:04:29) Josh summarizes the four pillars: profit margin, growth rate, size of profit, and risk diversity. Input Metrics: Profitability, Scalability, Repeatability, Defensibility (00:05:46) Scott introduces the underlying drivers: profitability, scalability, repeatability, and defensibility, leading to sellability. Case Study: Operations vs. Product Innovation (00:07:16) Discussion of a case where an entrepreneur excelled in operations and delegated product innovation. Actionable Takeaway 1: Build Your Data Room Early (00:08:15) Advice to start organizing a data room early, structured as buyers would want to see it. Actionable Takeaway 2: Implement Strategic Finance Monthly (00:10:03) Recommendation to review financials, forecasts, and company valuation monthly, not just accounting numbers. Actionable Takeaway 3: Structure Accounting for Add-Backs and Valuation (00:11:17) Organize accounting and company structure to maximize add-backs and improve valuation before exit. Clarifying Add-Backs and Corporate Structure (00:13:06) Further explanation on separating owner-related expenses and structuring entities for optimal valuation. Horizontal and Vertical Corporate Structuring (00:14:09) Scott details horizontal (multiple entities) and vertical (account codes for add-backs) structuring for better exit outcomes. Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:17:12) Josh thanks Scott and hints at a future episode. Links and Mentions: Tools and Concepts "Data Room": "00:08:15" "Strategic Finance": "00:10:03" Actionable Takeaways "Build Your Data Room": "00:08:15" "Implement Strategic Finance": "00:10:03" "Organize Accounting with Add Backs in Mind": "00:11:17" Key Concepts "Profitability, Scalability, Repeatability, and Defensibility": "00:06:14" Summary of Four Pillars for a Platform Company "Profit Margin": "00:05:19" Transcripts: Josh 00:00:00 Today I'm super excited to introduce you to Scott Deetz. Scott helps Amazon and e-commerce entrepreneurs unlock growth and profitability bottlenecks in their businesses, and then exit for a top valuation. Scott, welcome to the show. Scott 00:00:15 Hey Josh Scott. Great to be here and I'm really looking forward to it. Josh 00:00:18 Scott, maybe we can dive a little bit deeper into that case study. At the beginning, you talked about, you know, that they were you identified that they were a good platform, right? So that they could continue to grow. What does that platform mean? Scott 00:00:31 Yeah. So the pillars of a great platform, the way that I think about it, my mentor, and has done over $20 billion of...