The Smartest Amazon Seller

Episode 281 - Understanding FBA Calculators and Profitability on Amazon Oct 24, 2024

Scott explores the limitations of popular FBA calculators and uncovers hidden costs that can significantly impact profitability. He discusses the importance of accurate accounting and inventory tracking, as well as strategies for managing high return rates.
Drawing from years of experience selling over $100 million worth of products on Amazon, Scott delves into real-world examples and insights.

Join him as he uncovers the truth behind FBA profitability and equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Episode Notes:

01:15 - FBA Calculators Lies

04:35 - Understanding Profitability

08:55 - Amazon FBA Calculator

10:06 - Best Accounting Methods for Amazon Sellers

12:00 - How to Have a Profitable Amazon Business

Coupon Code: Smart2024

Profit Estimations

Episode 280 - Transforming Your Amazon Business with AI-Driven Content Creation with Max Sinclair Oct 22, 2024

In this episode, we're joined by Max Sinclair, Founder and CEO at Ecomtent, to explore how AI tools can revolutionize your e-commerce strategy.
Discover how AI can help you craft product titles and descriptions that rank higher in Amazon search results. Learn why visual context is crucial in the age of AI-powered search algorithms, and how to optimize your listings accordingly.
Explore innovative templates that make it easier to create stunning primary images and A+ content.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn how AI can help you save time, boost sales, and stay ahead of the competition on Amazon.

Episode Notes:

00:50 - Max Sinclair Introduction and Background

05:40 - AI's Impact on E-commerce

07:20 - Content Creation and the Importance of Visual SEO

08:45 - Streamlining Content Generation

13:30 - How Templates Streamline Content Creation for Non-designers

18:10 - Enhanced Brand Content

20:50 - Primary Image Optimization

25:15 - Technical Insights and Data Usage

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/max-sinclair-ai

Website: ecomtent.ai/

X: x.com/maxsinclair4

Episode 279 - Inflation, Awards, and Insights into Amazon's Marketplace with Scott Needham Oct 15, 2024

Get the latest on Amazon's pricing trends, including an upcoming inflation report.

Scott compares 1P and 3P sellers and discusses how major brands like Apple dominate the marketplace. Understand how inflation affects Amazon's pricing strategies, particularly for Chinese sellers. Gain insights into the challenges and methodologies used to analyze price trends across millions of products.

Plus, learn about the prestigious Golden Seller Awards.

Episode Notes:

00:15 - About The Smartest Amazon Seller

02:30 - Golden Seller Awards

04:20 - Average Price of Selling ASINs

04:59 - 1P Brands Report

08:15 - 1P vs 3P

11:28 - Inflation Prices on Amazon Marketplace

Episode 278 - Building a Multi-Million Dollar Amazon Empire with Jeff Needham Oct 08, 2024

Ever dreamed of building a multi-million dollar Amazon business with your sibling?

Join us for a special episode where we sit down with my brother and co-founder, Jeff, to uncover the secrets behind our journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the top Amazon sellers.

We'll share candid stories about the highs and lows of running a successful e-commerce business for over a decade, including the importance of adaptability in scaling a business, insights on leveraging third-party logistics for growth, and lessons learned from pursuing brand exclusivity deals.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an e-commerce enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.

Episode Notes:

00:10 - Jeff Needham Introduction

02:15 - Early Days and Initial Insights Into the Amazon Marketplace

05:00 - Scaling the Business

06:55 - Realizations and Challenges

09:50 - Decision to Move Warehouse Operations to Indiana

12:25 - Optimizing the Business

15:30 - Exploration of Brand-Direct and Exclusive Selling Models

16:10 - Lessons Learned from Watching Other Competitors

17:20 - Brand Direct Challenges

19:00 - Failed Ventures and Insights

25:30 - The Reimbursement Service

26:18 - Operational Innovations

29:30 - Scott’s Scouting Tool

30:30 - Issues with Expanding Too Wide

33:10 - Dealing with Accounting

34:47 - COVID Stories

37:45 - Price Gouging

39:15 - Amazon Inventory Constraints

Episode 277 - The Secrets to Stunning Amazon Product Pages with George Reid Oct 01, 2024

Join Scott and George Reid from AMZ Design Kit as they explore innovative strategies for creating eye-catching Amazon product pages that convert.
Discover how George's journey led him to develop a unique tool that curates top-tier design examples, infographics, and A+ content to inspire your creative process.
Learn how AMZ Design Kit collects and organizes high-performing design elements to fuel your inspiration. Explore practical tips to speed up your design process without sacrificing quality. Understand the significant impact of well-designed pages on conversion rates and advertising effectiveness.
Tune in to discover how to elevate your Amazon product pages and drive sales.
Episode Notes:
00:45 - George Reid Introduction

01:40 - Concept of AMZ Design Kit

02:50 - The Intersection of Advertising and Design

05:25- Role of Design in Conversion Rates

08:25 - Refreshing an ASIN

09:05 - Not Reinventing the Wheel

10:00 - Building a Design System

11:55 - Utilizing the AMZ Design Kit

14:55 - Design Refresh Results

17:30 - The Value of AMZ Design Kit

19:00 - Video Templates

20:40 - Affordability and Accessibility of AMZ Design Kit

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/georgereid23

Email: georgebreid@gmail.com

EPISODE 276 - Maximizing E-commerce Potential with Blaine Davis of Marketplace Pros Sep 24, 2024

Blaine Davis shares his remarkable journey, mirroring Scott's own path, from early days of reselling to venturing into private labels and ultimately offering industry-leading services.

Blaine's transition from managing an independent tool truck business online to becoming an Amazon powerhouse is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability. Discover how he navigated the ever-evolving landscape of Amazon and balanced reselling established brands with launching private labels.

Gain valuable insights into the future of e-commerce and the growing importance of collaborative partnerships. Blaine's perspective is invaluable as brands increasingly recognize the need for strong partnerships beyond transactional relationships.

Discover Blaine's challenges and the strategic pivots that led to Marketplace Pros's success. Learn how he adapted to changing market dynamics and transformed his business to offer a comprehensive suite of services.

Episode Notes:

00:15 - Blaine Davis Introduction

02:20 - Getting to Know Blaine

04:12 - Exclusive Partnerships

05:35 - Private Label vs. Reselling

07:40 - Knowing Your Keywords

08:30 - The Automotive Niche

10:50 - Getting Heavy on the SKU

11:40 - Competition and Market Dynamics

16:00 - Launching New Products

16:30 - Fees and Amazon Policies

18:30 - Challenges In Doing Pivots/Transitions

20:35 - What Excites Blaine About the Marketplace?

22:15 - The Rise of New Marketplaces

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blainejdavis/

X: @blainedavis

Website: blainedavis.net

Email: blaine@marketplacepros.com

EPISODE 275 - Advanced Strategies for Amazon Reimbursement with Yoni Mazor Sep 18, 2024

Are you leaving money on the table when it comes to Amazon reimbursements?
Join us for an in-depth discussion with Yoni Mazor, the CGO of Getida and a seasoned expert who has been navigating the complexities of Amazon seller reimbursements since 2015.

In this episode, we'll dive into the essential strategies and industry insights you need to maximize your returns. We'll discuss the evolving landscape of Amazon reimbursement services, including the critical changes to Amazon's upcoming reimbursement policies. Yoni will share proven tactics for ensuring you're not leaving money on the table.
Don't miss out on this invaluable advice that could significantly impact your bottom line. Tune in to learn how top sellers efficiently audit tens of billions in transactions and why private equity-backed solutions are setting new standards in transparency and compliance.
Episode Notes:

00:30 - Yoni Mazor Introduction

02:21 - Getida’s History

07:55 - Scaling Challenges and Innovations

11:35 - Patent Innovation and Document Handling

12:35 - Recent Changes in Amazon’s Policies

17:35 - Logic Behind Amazon Timeframes

21:45 - Leaving Money on the Table

23:45 - The Inconsistencies in Amazon

26:20 - Advertising Click Fraud

28:50 - Getida’s Future

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/yoni-mazor-b204a274

Website: getida.com/

EPISODE 274 - From Supplements to Software: The Evolving Strategies of Mike Danford Sep 10, 2024

Mike Danford, Growth Optimizer at Adverio, shares his extensive experience, offering invaluable insights into Amazon's competitive landscape.
Discover how Mike transitioned from a small-scale seller to managing large product catalogs efficiently. Learn about the challenges and opportunities he faced along the way, and gain valuable tips on streamlining operations and optimizing product listings.
Uncover the power of dynamic pricing strategies and how Mike has used them to maximize profitability. Understand the benefits of adjusting prices in real time based on market trends, competitor activity, and customer demand.
Explore the potential of machine learning for predictive analytics in e-commerce. Learn how Mike has leveraged data-driven insights to forecast sales, optimize inventory levels, and identify emerging trends.
Whether you're a seasoned Amazon seller or just starting, this episode offers actionable tips and strategies to help you grow your business and achieve long-term success.
Episode Notes:
00:55 - Mike Danford Introduction
01:30 - Mike’s Journey
04:05 - From Seller to Agency Founder
06:18 - Managing Large Catalogs
08:30 - Techniques for Optimizing Large Product Ranges
10:10 - Handling C1 and C2 Tier Products
12:10 - Introduction to Dynamic Pricing Tools
15:25 - Charm Pricing and Its Benefits
16:25 - Seller Central Utilities Benefits
18:30 - Custom-Built Tools and Machine Learning
20:35 - Integration of AI and Machine Learning
23:15 - Reflections on Amazon's Future Directions
Website: Adverio.io
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danfordmike
Related Post: How to Use AI for Successful Amazon Selling

EPISODE 273 - Mastering Data for Amazon Success with Robert Row Sep 03, 2024

Join Scott and Robert Row, Co-Founder at Bispoke, as they dive into the power of data in revolutionizing the Amazon selling business.
Robert shares his journey from digital marketing intern to working with top e-commerce brands, and how he leverages data to optimize inventory, advertising strategies, and more.
Discover the importance of data-driven decision-making in Amazon selling, how to use Amazon Marketing Cloud (AMC) to gain deeper insights into your customers, best practices for inventory management and supply chain optimization, effective advertising strategies for maximizing your return on investment, and practical tips for sellers of all sizes to leverage data analytics.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a seasoned expert and discover how data can help you take your Amazon business to the next level.
Episode Notes:
00:50 - Robert Row Introduction
02:30 - Background of Robert
05:55 - Robert's Journey from Digital Marketing to E-commerce
07:30 - Inventory Management and Advertising Adjustments
08:35 - Advertising Strategy
09:50 - The Importance of Data
11:05 - Amazon Marketing Cloud (AMC)
15:15 - Using AMC for Audience Management
18:15 - Practical Application of AMC for Improving Ad Efficiency
22:20 - Practical Tools and Solutions
26:10 - Streamlining the Process
27:40 - Importance of Data in Making Informed Decisions
29:35 - Using SmartScout for Market Share
32:15 - What is Bispoke?
33:50 - Lessons Learned from Previous Years
Email: Robert@bispoke.io
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robert-row-b8006517
Website: https://www.bispoke.io
Related Post: Finding Amazon Keyword Trends: Unleash the Power of SmartScout

EPISODE 272 - Leveraging Google Grants for Amazon Success with Ishan Soni Aug 27, 2024

Scott Needham sits down with Ishan Soni, the founder of Ad Grants Genie, to discuss innovative strategies for reducing Amazon advertising costs while driving sales.
Discover how to harness the power of Google's $10,000 monthly grant for nonprofits to generate free traffic and elevate your brand visibility.
Learn the ins and outs of Google's ad grant program, including eligibility requirements and best practices for maximizing its benefits. Explore the steps in creating a nonprofit that aligns with your brand and effectively leverages the grant to drive Amazon sales.
Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your Amazon selling strategy and unlock new growth opportunities. Tune in now!
Episode Notes:
01:25 - Ishan Soni Introduction
03:20 - Understanding Google Grants Program
04:35 - Establishing a Nonprofit for Amazon Sellers
06:00 - Examples of Nonprofits Created by Various Brands
06:55 - Implementing Google Grants for Amazon Sales
10:00 - Compliances and Guidelines
10:55 - Managing Taxes and Reporting for Nonprofits
13:50 - Granular Execution and Traffic Conversion
17:15 - What is an Advertorial?
19:15 - Leveraging the Nonprofit Setup
21:35 - Tools and Services Offered by Ad Grants Genie
23:20 - Giving Back Through Nonprofit
24:10 - Importance of Building Something Beyond Amazon
Website: https://adgrantsgenie.com/
Related Post: The Best Financing Loans for Amazon Sellers

EPISODE 271 - Scale and Connect at AMZ United 2024 Aug 20, 2024

Seasoned Amazon veteran Scott Needham joins forces with the strategic mind of Michael White, Chief Strategy Officer at SmartScout, to discuss the intricacies of scaling your Amazon business. Whether you're just starting out or aiming for the coveted nine-figure sales mark, this episode offers invaluable insights and actionable strategies.
Discover why resellers continue to dominate the Amazon marketplace and learn how to navigate the complex world of compliance to protect your business.
Plus, get an exclusive sneak peek into the upcoming AMZ United conference, where you can connect with fellow sellers and gain a competitive edge.
Don't miss this opportunity to level up your Amazon game!
Episode Notes:
00:45 - Michael White Introduction
02:45 - The World of Reselling
04:20 - AMZ United Year 2
05:30 - Remembering Last Year's AMZ United Conference
11:05 - Excitement for This Year's Conference
12:45 - Dealing with Amazon Account Suspension
14:10 - Best Compliance Experts
14:30 - Why Networking is Important
Related Post: Amazon Suspension: What Is It and How to Avoid It

EPISODE 270 - Scaling Your Amazon Business with Pattern’s Logistics Aug 13, 2024

Feeling overwhelmed by Amazon's ever-changing logistics landscape?
This episode of The Smartest Amazon Seller cuts through the complexity with expert insights from Rob Hahn, Head of Transportation at Pattern. Rob, with his journey from Amazon intern to robotics mastermind, unveils the secrets to optimized fulfillment and boosted sales conversions.
Discover how Pattern navigates FBA fees and complexities, unlocks the power of zone skipping for faster deliveries, and masters Amazon's intricate network. Learn why Pattern's Marketplace Prep Service is a game-changer for sellers and how they streamline your fulfillment process from labeling to delivery.
Rob also shares insights on addressing challenges with oversized items, unexpected inventory issues, and the future of FBA policies. Don't miss this episode to gain a competitive edge in the Amazon marketplace.
Episode Notes:
00:27 - Rob Hahn Introduction
02:30 - Rob Hahn’s Background
07:40 - Transition to Pattern and the role as COO
09:55 - Differences in Logistics and Transportation in the International Operations
11:00 - Challenges of Selling Across Different Markets and Languages
11:40 - Leveraging Amazon's APIs and Handling Warehouse Management Across Regions
18:32 - Explaining the Roles of Cross-docking and Fulfillment Centers in Amazon's Network
21:35 - Pattern's Initiative in Marketplace Prep Services
26:50 - Pattern’s Latest Facilities
28:30 - Addressing Challenges with Oversized Items
30:38 - Dealing with Discrepancies
32:15 - Chinese Sellers
33:45 - Future of FBA
Website: Pattern.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rob-hahn-12136736
Related Post: Is Amazon FBA Worth It? A Quick Look Into Making Money on Amazon

EPISODE 269 - Diana Gershman Secrets to Amazon Wholesale Success Aug 06, 2024

Scott sits down with Diana Gershman, the "Mary Poppins of Amazon FBA."
With over 15 years of experience, Diana shares her unique journey from academia to becoming a leading figure in the Amazon selling world.
This episode delves into the early days of Amazon FBA, the evolution of listing creation, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and strategies for successful wholesale on Amazon.
Diana also shares her insights on negotiating with distributors, the origin of the Amazon United conference, and personal anecdotes from her career, including experiences with gender dynamics in male-dominated industries.
Tune in to gain valuable insights from a true Amazon FBA pioneer and learn how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of e-commerce.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Diana Gershman Introduction
02:00 - Entering the World of Amazon
03:55 - The Early Days of Amazon FBA
05:50 - Building a Listing on Amazon
07:55 - Transition from Passive Selling to Proactive Account Management
10:25 - The Impact of Data on Modern Amazon Selling
11:56 - How Keepa and Other Tools Have Evolved to Assist in Data-driven Selling
17:42 - The Significance of Forecasting and Its Benefits to Distributors
18:05 - The benefits of Establishing Relationships with Distributors
19:40 - The Proliferation of Amazon Sellers Buying from Distributors
20:22 - Learning from Mistakes and Understanding the Marketplace
22:20 - The Business of Gender and Industry Domination
23:26 - The Generational Shift in Business Ownership
24:30 - The Inception and Realization of AMZ United
27:38 - Diana Recounts the AMZ United Experience
37:09 - What Else Does Diana Do?
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/diana-gershman-4a8411b
Instagram: diana (@diana_in_real_life)
Related Post:‍ How to Search Amazon Storefronts and Sellers

EPISODE 268 - From Solo Seller to Big Brand Strategist with Josh Justice Jul 30, 2024

Join host Scott as he chats with Josh Justice, a seasoned Amazon expert who has worked with major brands like Nordic Natural and Lego. Josh shares his 11+ years of experience, from being a solo seller in China to managing multi-million dollar ad budgets and navigating the unique challenges of working with big brands.
Discover how to transition from selling your products to working for an agency or in-house at a major brand. Learn the pros and cons of working at different-sized teams, gain insights into how Amazon's biggest brands operate, and uncover strategies for optimizing your Amazon presence, including ads, SEO, and product prioritization. Finally, get an inside look at the challenges and opportunities of remote work in the Amazon space.
Whether you're an Amazon agency pro or simply curious about the inner workings of the world's largest online marketplace, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the business!
00:16 - Josh Justice Introduction
01:45 - Josh’s Background
03:33 - The Agency Landscape and Working for Marketplace Ignition
09:30 - Transition to Working In-House
12:05 - Working with Nordic Naturals
13:40 - The Different Mafia Families of Amazon Selling
15:10 - Initial Thoughts on LEGO as a Dream Brand
17:00 - The Remote Work Considerations and Transition at LEGO
21:13 - LEGO's Amazon Strategy Insights
25:02 - The Importance of SEO
28:30 - LEGO’s View on Ads
30:55 - Dealing with Discontinued Products
33:55 - Infinite Commerce
41:20 - Infinite Commerce Hiring
44:15 - Learning from Other People
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joshua-justice
Related Post: ‍How to Search Amazon Storefronts and Sellers

EPISODE 267 - Scaling the Amazon Selling Business with Eric Castellano Jul 23, 2024

Scale your Amazon business with insider secrets from e-commerce titan Eric Castellano, who shares his strategies for massive growth in this latest podcast.
The episode delves into the scalability potential of growing an Amazon business from $10 million to $100 million in sales. Gain real-world insights and strategies as Eric, a seasoned Amazon seller, shares his experiences and expertise.
Get a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of e-commerce entrepreneurship and key takeaways on effectively scaling on the Amazon platform. Learn from Eric's successes and mistakes, and gain valuable tips on optimizing listings, managing finances, and navigating Amazon's ever-changing landscape.
Don't miss this opportunity to propel your business to new heights with insights from a true Amazon expert.
Episode Notes:
00:09 - Eric Castellano Introduction
03:10 - The Challenges of Running an Amazon Business
06:00 - Amazon's Fee Increases and Impact on Sellers
09:45 - Knowing When to Call It Quits
13:00 - Stories of Significant Losses and Lessons Learned
16:52 - Sourcing Strategies and Inventory Management
18:36 - Coping with Amazon's Technical Mistakes and Oversights
27:20 - Implementing Amazon Clerk
30:15 - The Proper Way to Bundle
34:25 - Eric’s Favorite Category
39:00 - The Eclectic Side of Amazon Business
42:00 - The Future of Brand Direct
43:17 - Eric’s Favorite Place to Find Brands
Related Post: The Best Software Tools for an Amazon FBA Wholesale Seller

EPISODE 266 - Challenger Brands and Amazon Growth Strategies with Wes Clark Jul 16, 2024

Wes Clark, Head of Marketing Operations & Marketplace at Kizik, shares his journey from working at Fortune 500 companies such as Intel to startups, revealing key insights about the importance of reviews on Amazon. He discusses the challenges of manipulated reviews and effective strategies to combat them.
Learn how Purple leveraged Amazon for brand awareness and how Kizik ensures presence across all customer-preferred platforms. The episode covers Kizik’s video advertising strategies and the importance of balancing Amazon with other sales channels to avoid over-reliance.
Wes also shares data-driven tactics for ad mix optimization, competitor analysis, and efficient return management. For more insights or questions about Kizik’s strategy, listeners can reach out via LinkedIn provided in the show notes.
Tune in for expert advice on maximizing your Amazon strategy!
Episode Notes:
00:28 - Wes Clark Introduction
01:20 - Wes Clark's Background and Entry into Amazon
03:33 - Understanding and Combatting Review Manipulation on Amazon
07:05 - Purple’s Brand Awareness Strategy
09:10 - The Success and Growth of Kizik on Amazon
10:34 - Kizik's Selective Approach to Amazon Listings and Shaping Customer Experience
14:05 - Utilizing Amazon Demand Side Platform (DSP) for Brand Exposure
15:09 - Measuring the Impact of Off-Amazon Advertising on Amazon Sales
16:00 - Growth Levers and Generating Top-of-Funnel Awareness
17:32 - The Importance of Video Marketing for DTC Brands on Amazon
19:00 - Exploring Sponsored Brand Video vs. DSP Video on Amazon
19:49 - Insight into Brand Risks and Challenges When Selling on Amazon
21:20 - Utilizing Data to Inform Strategy and Stay Ahead of Competitors
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/wesclark2
Related Post: Exclusive Access to Middle East Products for US Wholesalers

Episode 265 - The Compound Effect of In-House Prep with SamFBA – Scaling to $2M in 13 Months! Jul 09, 2024

Scott interviews SamFBA, a rapidly successful Amazon seller who has achieved nearly $2 million in revenue in just 13 months. Sam discusses the significant benefits of handling prep work in-house rather than relying on third-party logistics, which has helped her boost profit margins and better understand her inventory. She emphasizes the importance of small savings compounding over time to create substantial monthly gains as sales increase.
Sam also shares her strategies for scaling her business sustainably, avoiding substantial loans, and effectively using cashback credit cards to optimize profit margins. Despite challenges like account health issues, Sam's focus on proper sourcing practices has been key to her success.
Tune in for valuable insights on Amazon FBA, and follow @Sam_FBA on X for more tips and strategies.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - SamFBA Introduction and Amazon Journey
02:55 - The Advantages of Self-Prep and Margin Improvement
05:17 - Building Sustainable Profit Margins
09:30 - Account Health and Legitimacy in Sourcing
12:39 - Growth Strategies and Long-Term Vision
13:58 - Resourcefulness and Learning from Failure
15:02- Conclusion and Reflections
X: https://x.com/Sam_FBA
Related Post: Elevating Your Amazon FBA Business: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top Chrome Extensions

Episode 264 - Transitioning Business Models on Amazon with Jacob Albor Jul 02, 2024

Utah-based Amazon seller Jacob Albor shares his inspiring journey from selling books while working as a loan officer to becoming a full-time Amazon seller.
Jacob discusses how he cleared significant debt through strategic financial moves and transitioned to selling high-demand items such as over-the-counter drugs and fitness equipment during COVID-19.
He highlights the importance of building relationships for restock alerts and the shift from retail arbitrage to wholesale for better revenue and time freedom.
Jacob also shares valuable lessons from facing scams, emphasizing the importance of thorough vetting of suppliers.
Tune in to learn from his experiences and gain insights into navigating challenges and achieving success in the Amazon marketplace.
Episode Notes:
00:10 - Jacob Albor Introduction and Background
02:00 - Discovering Profitability in Book Reselling
02:38 - Scaling Up From Books
03:35 - Getting Through Debt
05:00 - A More Systematic Book Operation and Help From a Guru
06:08 - Meeting Scott
06:45 - Pivot From Books to Other Categories
09:00 - The Grind of Retail Arbitrage
13:15 - Warehousing
15:42 - Advancing into Wholesale
17:55 - Motivations for Change
18:36 - Insights into Wholesale
22:13 - Finding and Working with Suppliers / Avoiding Scams
29:00 - Conclusion
Instagram: amazonkingpin
Related Post: Retail Arbitrage vs. Online Arbitrage: Choosing the Right Sourcing Strategy for Amazon Sellers

Episode 263 - Exploring Non-China Sourcing Strategies with Sebastian Hertz Jun 26, 2024

Scott Needham is joined by Sebastian Herz, founder of Zignify and a global product sourcing expert. Together, they explore the complexities of sourcing products outside of China, offering strategies for Amazon sellers to achieve cost savings and enhanced efficiency.
Sebastian shares his journey from electrical engineer to entrepreneur, with extensive experience living in China and Singapore. He provides insights into Zignify's evolution from a small, China-focused business to a global sourcing powerhouse with over 60 employees. The discussion highlights the shift from China-based sourcing due to factors like Trump tariffs and the need for supply chain diversification, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right countries based on client needs and product materials.
Sebastian also contrasts the sourcing mindsets of large corporations and small sellers, offering practical tips for navigating international manufacturer relationships. Tune in to this episode for essential insights on global product sourcing from one of the industry's leading experts.
Gain valuable advice on reassessing current suppliers for potential savings, understanding the importance of fully engaging in the sourcing process, and leveraging tools like import records for competitor analysis.
Episode Notes:
00:23 - Sebastian Herz Introduction
02:25 - Zignify and Sebastian's Origin Story
06:45 - The Sourcing Process
12:15 - Advice for New Sellers
17:40 - Useful Tools and Strategies
19:25 - Working with Large Corporations
24:05 - Favorite Countries for Sourcing
26:25 - The Human Element of Sourcing
Website: zignify.net
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sebastianherz
Related Post: Retail Arbitrage vs. Online Arbitrage: Choosing the Right Sourcing Strategy for Amazon Sellers

EPISODE 262 - From Social Work to Amazon Success: Andy Slamans’ Journey to Building a Multi-Million Dollar Brand Jun 18, 2024

Andy Slamans Co-Founder of Amazing Freedom Brands, shares his incredible story of transitioning from social work to building a multi-million dollar Amazon business.
We delved into Andy's early days of selling on Amazon, the valuable lessons he learned, and the challenges he overcame along the way. From navigating the intricacies of international sourcing to building relationships with domestic manufacturers, we uncovered the strategies that propelled Amazing Freedom Brands to remarkable success.
Andy also shared his insights on inventory management, advertising adjustments, the shift to website sales, and the delicate balance of pricing and margins.
If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode was packed with invaluable advice and inspiration to fuel your journey.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Andy Slamans Introduction
01:50 - LinkedIn and its Positive Environment
02:55 - Andy's Transition from Social Work to Amazon Selling
05:45 - The Early Days of Selling on Amazon and Lessons Learned
09:20 - Challenges and Strategies of Sourcing Internationally
10:45 - Advantages of Sourcing Products Domestically in the US
13:30 - Finding Tradeshows
15:19 - Reordering Products from Domestic Manufacturers
16:40 - Experimenting with Turning Off Ads Due to Running Out of Inventory
18:18 - Approaching $20 Million in Revenue: Strategies and Growth
21:15 - Using a Line of Credit
22:55 - Navigating Return Handling for Different Types of Products
24:46 - Building a Team with C-Suite Hires and Scaling the Business
29:30 - Learning from Losses
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andy-slamans-892ba0b9
Website: amazing freedom.com
Related Post: Maximize Your Ad Spend: 7 Benefits of Effective Ad Management

EPISODE 261 - A Wholesale Conversation with Corey Ganim at SmartScout HQ Jun 11, 2024

Coming from North Carolina to the SmartScout Headquarters, we have Corey Ganim an experienced wholesaler with his own podcast that has also helped many build successful wholesale businesses.
In a unique twist, Corey interviews Scott about his journey and insights into building and using SmartScout. Discover how SmartScout stands out from other tools and why even long-time listeners are surprised by its capabilities once they start using it.
Scott also announced AMZ United 2024 and shared the success of AMZ United 2023 — an event specifically catering to wholesale sellers on Amazon. He discussed the lack of events targeted at wholesalers despite their significant presence among top Amazon sellers and how AMZ United fills that gap.
Learn the challenges and rewards of private label businesses, emphasizing the importance of niche targeting and community building. Discover strategies for wholesalers transitioning into private labels, including the bold approach of high-investment launches to avoid saturated markets.
Episode Notes:
00:25 - Corey Ganim Introduction
01:53 - AMZ United 2024
05:30 - Supplier Interactions
07:20 - Covid Business Boom
10:45 - Wholesale or Private Label Business
14:25 - Advice for New Sellers
15:20 - Partnership Pros & Cons
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-ganim/
Related Post: Introducing AMZ United 2023 - The First-Ever Conference for Amazon Wholesale Sellers

EPISODE 260 -Netrush’s Strategic Evolution in the Amazon Marketplace with Raj Sapru and Chris Marantette Jun 04, 2024

Scott is joined by special guests Raj, the Chief Strategy Officer of Netrush, and Chris Marantette, the Co-CEO / Co-Founder of Netrush. They delve into the dynamic evolution of Netrush from a small two-person team to a robust company focused on maximizing brand profitability through strategic partnerships and innovative infrastructure.
The discussion provides valuable insights into the shifts in Amazon's marketplace, highlighting the transition from high-profit margins to tighter margins due to market maturation and commoditization.
Chris highlights the importance of integrating logistics technology into overall business strategy, addressing recent Amazon fee changes and their impact on sellers.
The episode also explores the role of 'brand runners'—individuals managing various aspects within a company—and the necessity for sophisticated logistics and supply chain management tools.
Tune in to learn how proactive pricing strategies, cost optimization, and innovative solutions can help brands navigate the complexities of the Amazon marketplace and stay ahead in a competitive environment.
Episode Notes:
00:45 - Raj Sapru and Chris Marantette Introduction
01:05 - The Net Rush Origin Story and the Shift to a Brand-Centric Approach
04:35 - Starting Sellozo
08:23 - FBA Fee Increase History
18:25 - Importance of Advertising and Logistics in Amazon FBA
19:45 - Addressing the Complexities of Amazon's Logistics and Fee Changes
25:19 - Minimizing Expenses
29:55 - Analyzing Amazon's Fee Structure and the Impact of Shipping Time on Conversion
31:15 - Understanding the Role of the Brand Runner in Modern Commerce
35:02 - Optimizing Costs in Shipping and Inventory Management
LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/in/rajsapru
linkedin.com/in/chris-marantette-4701b9
Website: netrush.com
Related Post: Understanding Amazon's Fee Structure for Wholesale Sellers

EPISODE 259 - Advanced Amazon Strategies with Josh Hadley and Matt Altman May 28, 2024

In this special episode, we’re excited to present a unique podcast swap, featuring an insightful episode from Josh Hadley's eComm Breakthrough Podcast.
Join us as Josh interviews Matt Altman from Right Side Up, delving into advanced strategies for product optimization, managing PPC campaigns, and knowing when to let go of underperforming products.
This episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice for Amazon sellers looking to enhance their business growth and streamline their operations. Josh Hadley shares his inspiring journey of growing Hadley Designs into an eight-figure brand, offering candid insights into the challenges he faced and the strategies that led to his success.
Meanwhile, Matt Altman brings over a decade of experience to the table, discussing crucial topics such as the importance of high-converting keywords, innovative photo editing techniques for product images, and effective affiliate marketing strategies.
Whether you're a seasoned seller or just starting, this episode provides valuable lessons and practical tips to help you optimize your Amazon business and achieve sustained growth.
Tune in and transform your selling strategy today!
Episode notes:
02:45 - Ecom Breakthrough Podcast Overview
03:50 - Matt Altman Introduction
05:10 - Matt's journey into ecommerce
06:40 - Insights into Successful Brand Exits
10:21 - Strategy for Launching New Products on Amazon
13:00 - Product Launch Budget
15:35 - Types of Ad Campaigns
20:40 - Product Conversion Rate \ Optimizing Products
28:40 - Amazon A/B Testing Feature
31:45 - EVA.Guru / Intellivy.net / mturk.com
33:25 - Other Software Tools to Manage Multiple Brands
35:20 - PPC Tactics
48:40 - External Marketing
51:10 - Amazon Affiliates
LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/in/matt-altman-39b72a70
linkedin.com/in/joshhadley/
Website:
www.rightsideup.com
https://wavve.link/Ecommbreakthrough
Email:
mattaltman89@gmail.com
josh@ecommbreakthrough.com
Related Post: Yes, E-Commerce in Latin America Is Worth It

EPISODE 258 - E-Commerce Dynamics with Russ Dieringer of Stratably May 21, 2024

Join Scott today with Russ Dieringer, the Founder & CEO of Stratably, a leading research group that advises major brands on market trends in e-commerce.
In this episode, they explore how Stratably assists companies in understanding their customers and competitors through an annual membership that includes access to in-depth research, live webinars, and collaborative share groups.
Understanding e-commerce dynamics is vital for brands to balance their online presence with physical stores. Russ highlights challenges for larger brands with global distribution facing price transparency issues, while midsize or smaller first-party (1P) brands may seek third-party alternatives due to tough negotiations with platforms such as Amazon.
With Stratably's innovative approach to research and analysis, companies gain a strategic advantage in navigating the ever-evolving marketplace landscape.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Russ Dieringer Introduction
01:02 - Stratably Origins
01:58 - The Power Dynamics of 1P and 3P on Amazon
04:50 - The Evolution of E-commerce Post-COVID
06:05 - Benchmarking Consumer Brands
08:08 - Stratably Data Collection
10:10 - Big Brands Dealing with Emerging Marketplaces
16:45 - Marketplace Control
22:48 - Profit Strategies for Midsize and Challenger Brands
24:45 - Tactical Shifts and Innovations on Amazon
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/russdieringer
Website: stratably.com
Related Post: Expanding With Amazon FBA – How To Start Selling in Europe

EPISODE 257 - Cruising Amazon’s Fast Lane with Dillon Carter of Aura May 14, 2024

Today we are diving into the crucial element of speed on Amazon, emphasizing that success isn't just about intelligence — it's about staying ahead of the curve.
Joining Scott is Dillon Carter, the visionary behind Aura, a groundbreaking repricing tool that's revolutionizing the way sellers navigate the Amazon marketplace. From humble beginnings in college to mastering the art of selling on Amazon, Dillon's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Discover how Dillon's detour into personal training paved the way for his entrepreneurial ventures, culminating in the creation of Aura. With a passion for sharing knowledge, Dillon pioneered wholesale sourcing resources and podcasts, empowering sellers with invaluable insights.
Learn how Aura's relentless commitment to efficiency led to the development of a cutting-edge repricing system capable of updating prices in the blink of an eye. Explore the intricate balance between sales velocity and profitability, where AI-driven strategies elevate sellers to new heights without compromising margins.
Episode Notes:
00:35 - Dillon Carter Introduction
01:20 - The Origins of Aura
03:58 - Transition from Wholesale to Software
05:15 - The Move and Expansion to Boston
07:15 - The Shift Back to E-Commerce
09:00 - New API Version
14:20 - Introducing Hyper Drive
16:20 - Understanding Buy Box Dynamics
17:52 - Reframing Success for Amazon Sellers
19:02 - AI and the Future of Repricing
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dillon-carter Website: https://dilloncarter.com/
Related Post: The Top Insights to Amazon Repricing Tools

EPISODE 256 - Maximizing Revenue Through Effective Return Management Strategies With Will Abrams May 08, 2024

Joined by Will Abrams, founder of Axiom Prep, Scott uncovers the hidden impacts of returns on your bottom line and explores effective strategies for managing them.
Returns can be more than just a hassle — they can significantly affect your revenue stream.
Will shares his personal journey, from navigating piles of returns as an Amazon seller to founding a return service business focused on maximizing value from these items.
Explore the complexities of reimbursement types and gain valuable insights into documenting item conditions to support successful reimbursement claims.
Episode Notes:
00:20 - Will Abrams Introduction
03:00 - The Nuances of Handling Returns
06:15 - Consignment, and Reimbursement Types
07:25 - Deep Dive into Amazon Reimbursement Challenges
08:35 - The Economic Threshold for Handling Returns
10:00 - Outsourcing Return Handling to Expert Services
16:00 - The Importance of Visibility and Documentation
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-abrams-426b15260/
Website: http://axiomprepcenter.com/
Related Post: How To Leverage Reverse Logistics for a Competitive Advantage

Episode 255: The Hadley Designs Story - A Journey Through Amazon Selling Apr 30, 2024

In this episode, Josh Hadley takes us on a journey through his entrepreneurial path, sharing the story behind Hadley Designs and how they've carved out a niche in the competitive world of stationery products.
Discover how Josh's childhood hustle selling lemonade paved the way for his successful e-commerce venture, and learn about the pivotal moments that led to Hadley Designs' evolution from custom wedding invitations to educational posters. With candid insights into navigating market challenges such as COVID-19 and the importance of constant innovation, this episode offers invaluable lessons for aspiring Amazon sellers.
We also delve into the intricacies of protecting designs from IP infringement, strategies for effective product launches, and the critical role of community building in e-commerce success.
Whether you're a seasoned seller looking for new strategies or a newcomer eager to learn, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories to help you thrive in the dynamic world of Amazon selling.
Episode Notes:
00:17 - Josh Hadley Introduction
01:17 - Josh’s Background
01:56 - Childhood Business Ventures to Amazon
06:00 - Pivoting Categories and Selling Recipe Cards
10:10 - Scaling the Amazon Business and Impact of Covid
12:50 - The Current State of Selling Design-Based Products on Amazon
15:00 - Protecting Intellectual Property and Legal Strategies
20:25 - Barriers to Entry and Success Factors in Design-Based Categories
25:20 - Merch by Amazon and Product Differentiation
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joshhadley
Website: ues.utah.edu
Related Post: Winning the Bogus IP Claim War on Amazon

Episode 254: Insights About the New FBA Fees, Listing Hacks, SmartScout’s Brand Reports, and the 2024 Accelerate Conference Apr 23, 2024

Scott gives us 4 key updates in a quick but compact episode.
The topics include an analysis of Amazon's FBA placement fee program, SEO strategies for product listings, insights on SmartScout's brand reports, and details about Pattern's Accelerate conference for large brands.
Whether you're an experienced seller or new to Amazon's marketplace dynamics, this episode offers valuable insights and tips for enhancing your business reach and efficiency.
Episode Notes:
00:40 - Amazon's New FBA Placement Fee
04:07 - SEO Hacks for Product Listings
07:30 - SmartScout’s Brand Reports
09:50 - Pattern’s Accelerate Conference
Related Post: The Vendor Central Database of Amazon Brands

Episode 253: Is the Mafia Selling on Amazon? Answers With Jed Rawson Apr 16, 2024

Scott is joined by Jed Rawson, CEO of Pirawna, who shares a gripping tale of intrigue and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Jed recounts a recent incident where his team encountered stolen goods being sold on Amazon, totaling a staggering $4 million in inventory. Through meticulous investigation and collaboration with law enforcement, they uncovered an organized crime operation responsible for potentially $50-100 million in stolen goods.
Amazon's swift response led to the shutdown of several accounts linked to the illegal activity, marking one of their largest takedowns of fraudulent sellers to date.
Jed discusses supply chain security measures, emphasizing the importance of GPS tracking containers and verifying driver identities. He also highlights Pi Agency's success in assisting brands to exit for significant sums, driven by strategies informed by past failures and focused on long-term trends.
Episode Notes:
00:13 - Jed Rawson Introduction
01:23 - Mafia on Amazon
04:00 - BuyBox Hijacked
06:25 - Genesis of SmartScout
07:00 - Stolen Inventory Investigation
11:50 - Law Enforcement and Takedown Operations
14:40 - Learning from Amazon Escalations
16:10 - Organized Criminal Operation and Impact on Brands
21:15 - Precautions and Preventive Measures
27:40 - Brand Exits
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/pirawna/
Website: https://www.pirawna.com/
Related Post: The Amazon Appeals Dilemma: DIY or Delegate

Episode 252: Insider Strategies for Profitable Amazon Selling with Steven Pope Apr 09, 2024

Steven Pope from My Amazon Guy discusses strategies for profiting on Amazon. With over a decade of experience, Steven shares insights on navigating challenges and evolving business models.
He covers topics such as brand registry loss, retail arbitrage, and mitigating compliance risks. Emphasizing the importance of learning from setbacks, Steven provides actionable advice for sellers to enhance their success on Amazon.
Episode Notes:
00:23 - Steven Pope Introduction
03:44 - Starting an Agency
06:18 - Amazon Account Suspension Policy
12:50 - White Hat vs. Black Hat
13:55 - Brand Registry Process
15:40 - Scaling and Prep
16:37 - Mixing Retail Arbitrage and Wholesale
19:34 - Succeeding Using SmartScout
19:48 - Finding your Zone of Genius
21:51 - Mistakes and Regrets
25:23 - Inventory Manager for Amazon
27:53 - SmartScout Trial
29:14 - Reselling Compliance Risk
30:30 - Hijackers, Black Hat Tactics, Stolen Goods
31:50 - Improving Click-Through Rate
“Images are for people and copy is for robots” - Steven
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/steven-pope
Website: myamazonguy.com | myrefundguy.com
YouTube: youtube.com/myamazonguy
Related Post: Amazon PPC Optimization: Tips for More Clicks and Conversions

Episode 251: Insights, Stories, and Standout Companies with Scott Apr 02, 2024

Scott shares his insights on recent happenings in the Amazon space, including standout companies such as AdGrantsGenie, AIA Assets, Deltologic, and a personal story highlighting the challenges sellers face.
Episode notes:
01:10 - AIA Assets
03:00 - AdGrantsGenie
04:00 - Deltologic
04:40 - Connected Commerce Council
05:25 - Junglytics
06:10 - Scott’s Best Amazon Story
Related Post: Advertising Solutions by Amazon: A Closer Look into Amazon Ads

Episode 250: Discovering Growth Strategies and Branding Tips with Sabir Semerkant Mar 26, 2024

Scott Needham, accompanied by e-commerce expert Sabir Semerkant, dives deep into the ever-evolving world of online commerce.
With over 25 years of experience, Sabir shares invaluable insights, including his unique “8-D Method" for business growth, honed through ventures such as revitalizing Vitamin Shoppe's website from bankruptcy to success.
The discussion covers crucial aspects such as optimizing website performance, strategic pricing, and the importance of cohesive team dynamics, emphasizing the significance of adapting to AI advancements and focusing on revenue per session rather than traditional conversion rates.
Episode notes:
00:15 - Sabir Semerkant Introduction
02:05 - Sabir’s Background
03:55 - Good and Bad Information
04:40 - Vitamin Shoppe
05:15 - Test, Learn, and Optimize
07:05 - Ecommerce is a Mix of Different Practices
08:00 - Co-founding VaynerCommerce
10:20 - How Sabir Met Gary V.
13:50 - 8-D Method
14:55 - Performance Optimzation
18:40 - Consumer Attention Span
23:20 - Premium Pricing
25:25 - Product Positioning and Brand Building
29:40 - Story Telling
32:50 - Customer UX
35:20 - Retargetting and Remarketing
40:20 - Logistics
LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/in/sabirsemerkant
Websites:
growthbysabir.com/workshop/
growthbysabir.com (GROWTH by Sabir)
growthbysabir.com/liveshow (#ThisWeekWithSabir Live) medium.com/worklifebalancebysabir (#WorkLifeBalanceBySab)
Related Post: Pricing Strategies for Wholesale Sellers on Amazon

Episode 249: Insights from M19 Founder Tarik on Unlocking Amazon Advertising Secrets Mar 19, 2024

Scott interviews Tarik, the founder of M19, an advertising technology tool for Amazon sellers. They discuss various topics related to advertising on Amazon, including organic rank awareness, retail data awareness, inventory awareness, and variation advertising.
Tarik shares insights into how M19 helps sellers optimize their advertising campaigns and make data-driven decisions. He also discusses the importance of conversion rate and how it can impact advertising costs.
Overall, the conversation provides valuable information for Amazon sellers looking to improve their advertising strategies.
Episode Notes:
00:35 - Introduction and Background
02:00 - Building M19 and Getting Customers
05:30 - Organic Rank Awareness
08:47 - Checking rankings
12:18 - Inventory Awareness
14:45 - Advertising Awareness
19:15 - Conversion Data
22:54 - Marketplace Preferences
24:17 - How to Reach M19
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/berradatarik
Related Post: Advertising Solutions by Amazon: A Closer Look into Amazon Ads

Episode 248: Inside Walmart’s Rise with SellCord CEO Michael Lebhar Mar 12, 2024

Scott Needham interviews Michael, the CEO and founder of SellCord, a Walmart agency. They discuss the growth and success of Walmart as an e-commerce platform, the reasons for brands to work with Walmart, and the opportunities for success in different categories.
Michael shares insights on achieving category success on Walmart, optimizing listings, and using Walmart Fulfillment Services (WFS). He also discusses Walmart's future and its competition with Amazon.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Introduction and Evolution of Walmart E-commerce
02:23 - Michael's Insights on Walmart in 2023
03:56 - Launching and Succeeding on Walmart
04:03 - Understanding Walmart’s Style Guides and Listing Optimization
06:14 - Brand Success Stories and Strategies on Walmart
07:40 - The Journey from Online Marketplace to In-Store Presence
15:38 - Future Prospects for Walmart as an Online Marketplace
18:09 - Key Tactics for Optimizing Walmart Listings
19:50 - Walmart Tools and Data Utilization Strategies
20:38 - Understanding and Leveraging Walmart Fulfillment Services (WFS)
Website: https://www.sellcord.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lebhar/

Episode 247: Catching Up With the Latest Amazon Updates Mar 05, 2024

Scott breaks down the latest news in the Amazon space.
Learn his reactions to new FBA Fees and the details of Thrasio’s Bankruptcy Filing. Plus, some funny takes on the 17 people you will meet at the Prosper event.
Episode Notes:
00:35 - Podcast Coverage
01:15 - Prosper Update and Scott’s Favorite Audience
02:50 - The 17 People you will meet @ Prosper
03:15 - The Event Season
04:30 - Natural Products Expo West 2024
05:45 - SmartScout Expo West Brand Report
07:05 - Thrasio Bankruptcy
09:55 - Tweets about Thrasio’s Bankrupt
10:15 - Optimizing FBA Fees
Email: scott@smartscout.com
Related Post: Fulfillment Fee (FBA Fulfillment Fee)

Episode 246: Evaluating Amazon Seller Tools With David Zimmermann Feb 27, 2024

In this podcast episode, Scott Needham interviews David Zimmermann from the Amazon Tools League channel.
They discuss the process of analyzing Amazon tools and how David evaluates different categories of tools, such as PPC automation and profitability trackers. They also talk about the challenges of comparing AI features in different tools and the importance of considering cost in tool evaluation.
David shares his experience with tracking the tool landscape and how some tools have faded away over time. They also touch on the topic of newsletters and the importance of building an email list for e-commerce brands.
Episode notes:
00:15 - David Zimmermann Introduction
01:40 - David Zimmermann Tools Comparison
04:45 - Comparing AI
5:45 - Automation Features
07:02 - Scoring Tool Features
09:00 - David’s Favorite Category
10:15 - Finding the Tools
11:00 - How Returns Affect Profitability
13:25 - Picking Worth It Demos
14:14 - Tools That Faded Away
15:20 - Analyzing Newsletters
19:35 - Conclusion
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddzim/
Website: https://courses.ddzim.me/courses
Related Post: The 5 Best SmartScout Tools for Amazon Wholesale Sellers

Episode 245: Stocking Out is Good for Your Business Feb 20, 2024

In this episode, Scott dives into the art of inventory management, drawing lessons from early encounters with hits like Elf on the Shelf, Halloween products, and Barbie dolls. He explores the fine line between stocking out and overstocking and discusses why stocking out can sometimes be good.
Plus, Scott tackles upcoming 2024 FBA fees and shares strategies for thriving in today's ever-evolving market. Tune in for expert tips on mastering inventory and maximizing profitability.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Early Lessons from Amazon Selling
01:35 - The Elf on the Shelf
03:05 - Halloween
04:25 - Barbie Princess
06:20 - Why Stocking Out Can Be a Good Thing
07:05 - Stocking Out vs Overstocking
09:20 - Greed vs Caution
Related Post: How To Sell on Amazon Without Inventory

Episode 244: The Rise and Fall of Aggregators with Michal Oron of Fortunet Feb 13, 2024

Scott Needham interviews Michal B. Oron, the CEO and Co-Founder of Fortunet.net, the first investment bank focused on e-commerce businesses.
They discuss the rise and fall of aggregators in the Amazon marketplace, the diversification of acquirers, and the importance of benchmarking for Amazon sellers. They also explore key metrics such as ACOS (Average Cost of Sale), repeat customer rate, market share, and the Inventory Performance Index (IPI).
Michal shares insights into how these metrics impact the attractiveness and potential of a business.
Overall, they are optimistic about the market and see a growing appetite for deals in the e-commerce space.
Episode Notes:
01:05 - Michal Introduction
01:30 - The Rise and Fall of Aggregators
04:05 - Benchmarking
07:50 - Understanding ACOS
11:20 - Repeat Customer Rate
17:00 - Market Share
19:00 - The Significance of Market Share
20:55 - Inventory Performance Index (IPI)
Website: https://fortunet.net/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michal-baumwald-oron-9b604620
Related Post: Thrasio vs Perch: Which Amazon Aggregator Is Right for You?

Episode 243: The Power of Lifetime Warranties on Amazon with Michael Kaufman Feb 06, 2024

In this episode, Scott interviews Michael Kaufman, an expert in e-commerce and Amazon selling, about the importance and impact of offering a lifetime warranty as a strategy to build brand identity and customer loyalty.
They discuss how this approach can differentiate a brand in a competitive market, foster trust with customers, and contribute to long-term success on Amazon.
Additionally, they share tips and advice for sellers interested in implementing a similar warranty strategy in their businesses.
Episode Notes:
00:25 - Michael Kaufman Introduction
01:10 - How Michael Started
03:45 - Lifetime Warranty
04:55 - Building Credibility from Reviews
06:05 - Fulfilling Claims
08:40 - Organic Product Launch
09:50 - Conversion from Lifetime Warranty
11:15 - Putting the Warranty in the Main Image
12:05 - Tricking the Amazon Algorithm
12:55 - Lifetime Value of Customers
15:25 - Thinking Like a Customer
16:10 - Warranty Registration
17:35 - Utilizing Mailers
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/protuffproducts
Website: https://brandfortresshq.com/
Related Post: 8 Strategies To Boost Your Conversion Rates on Amazon

Episode 242: Future-Proof Product Launch Formula with Dylan Lam of Omirank Jan 30, 2024

Scott Needham interviews Dylan Lam of Omirank about building a long-term product that turns into a brand. They discuss the evolution of product launches and the concept of treating Amazon as a channel rather than a business model.
Dylan shares his future-proof product launch formula, which involves triple validation through Amazon research, dropshipping research, and Kickstarter. They delve into the preparation and launch stages of Kickstarter, as well as the importance of generating traffic and building a community.
Dylan provides examples of successful Kickstarter campaigns and highlights the cash flow advantage and flexibility of launching on Kickstarter. They also discuss fulfillment options and the assistance provided by Omirank in the product launch process.
Episode Notes:
00:00 - Introduction and Goal of the Podcast
01:10 - Guest Introduction
01:38 - The Evolution of Product Launches
03:10 - Treating Amazon as a Channel
06:49 - The Future-Proof Product Launch Formula
07:16 - Dropshipping Research
08:43 - The Kickstarter Step
10:26 - Preparation and Launch Stages of Kickstarter
13:33 - Generating Traffic on Kickstarter
15:33 - Successful Kickstarter Examples
19:18 - Cash Flow Advantage and Launching on Amazon
21:56 - Fulfillment of Kickstarter Orders
24:08 - Assistance in the Product Launch Process
26:41 - Building a Brand and Owning Traffic
28:01 - Conclusion
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dylan-kenneth-lam-796778281
Related Posts: The Ultimate Checklist for Launching a Product on Amazon

Episode 241: A Deep Dive into Amazon Influencer Tools and Trends with Liz Saunders Jan 23, 2024

In this episode, Scott Needham interviews Liz Saunders, the founder of Fluencer Fruit, a tool for Amazon influencers.
Liz shares her background as an Amazon seller and her journey to building Fluencer Fruit.
She discusses the need for tools in the Amazon Influencer Program and the challenges of marketing the tool. Liz emphasizes the importance of video in Amazon listings and how it can increase sales and reduce returns.
She also discusses Amazon's response to video trends and the future of the Amazon Influencer Program. The episode concludes with Liz sharing how sellers can use Fluencer Fruit for optimization and her contact information for further questions.
Episode Notes:
00:00 - Introduction and Background
01:00 - Building Fluencer Fruit
03:02 - The Need for Tools in the Amazon Influencer Program
04:11 - Marketing Challenges
05:24 - The Importance of Video in Amazon Listings
08:19 - The Impact of Video on Sales and Returns
09:47 - Amazon's Response to Video Trends
13:20 - How Sellers Can Get Videos on Their Listings
14:14 - Case Study: Increase in Sales with Influencer Content
18:13 - Using Fluencer Fruit for Optimization
19:27 - The Future of the Amazon Influencer Program
21:24 - Expansion of the Influencer Program Internationally
22:35 - Closing Remarks
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/liz-saunders
Website: www.fluencerfruit.com
Related Post: Leveraging User-Generated Content to Boost Amazon Sales

Episode 240: Get New Reviews for Your Amazon Products for Free! Jan 16, 2024

Scott Needham interviews Tom, the Co-Founder of Lonesome Labs, about its HighFive tool. It is a free tool that helps Amazon sellers request reviews for their products in a compliant way.
HighFive connects with a seller's Amazon account and allows them to choose when Amazon sends the review request email to customers.
Tom explains the importance of reviews for sellers and how HighFive can help them get more recent reviews, which can improve their product rankings. He also discusses the future plans for Lonesome Labs and the value of offering HighFive as a free tool.
Episode Notes:
01:10 - Tom Piamenta Introduction
01:20 - The Value of Product Reviews
02:20 - Lonesome Labs’s HighFive
04:30 - Best Interval for Reviews
05:00 - Review Limitations
06:00 - Calculating Success Rates
07:00 - Getting Reviews for Free
08:00 - New Tools to Watch Out From Lonesome Labs
09:00 - Micro SaaS
09:40 - Review Manipulation and Getting Suspended
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tompiamenta/
Website: www.lonesomelabs.com
Related Post: Amazon Variation Listing: An Ultimate Guide [2023]

Episode 239: How To Understand the World of Amazon Vendor Central With Will Haire Jan 09, 2024

In this episode, Scott is with Will Haire, CEO & Founder at BellaVix. They explore the intricacies of Amazon Vendor Central, including topics such as net PPM, vendor profit calculations, co-op fees, challenges, and benefits of being a vendor.
Learn about liquidation impact, reduced purchase orders, advertising strategies, vendor finances, and the future of Vendor Central. The conversation delves into maximizing profitability, chargeback recovery, and the unique experiences vendors face, particularly during Q4.
They also shared valuable insights into streaming TV advertising and emerging opportunities on platforms such as Snap and Instagram. Additionally, Scott underscores the significance of inventory discipline, utilizing prime exclusive discounts, and addresses the issue of handling stale inventory.
Episode Notes:
00:21 - Will Haire Introduction
00:55 - The T5 and Sales Days
01:55 - Streaming TV Advertising
04:00 - Placement and Targeting
05:40 - Vendor Central
07:00 - Calculating Profit Margin
08:30 - Co-op Fees and Other Costs
12:05 - Contribution Margin
12:40 - Impact of Liquidating Products
15:00 - Paying for Advertising as a Vendor
17:25 - The Future of Vendor Central
19:35 - Closing Remarks
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/willhaire
Website: bellavix.com
X: MarketingChimp1
Related Post: How to Get Leverage on Amazon Vendor Negotiations [2024]

Episode 238 - Expert Insights on Advertising, Data Analysis, and Business Growth with Youval Peltier and Andrew Tookey Jan 03, 2024

In this episode of The Smartest Amazon Seller Podcast, host Scott Needham interviews Youval and Andrew, two experienced professionals with backgrounds in Amazon selling and brand management.
They discuss various topics related to selling on Amazon, focusing on advertising, data analysis, and overall business growth. Plus, insights and experiences - highlighting the importance of a healthy Amazon business, measuring incrementality, and utilizing data to optimize ad campaigns.
Learn the features and benefits of Amazon marketing cloud and discover valuable strategies to succeed on the platform.
Episode Notes:
00:40 - Youval Peltier and Andrew Tookey Introduction
04:13 - Empowering Brands
07:34 - The Complexity of Subcategories
08:06 - Factors That Contribute to a Healthy Amazon Business
09:46 - What is Incrementality?
11:14 - How to Measure Incrementality
11:50 - Stitching Data from Different Sources
14:41 - Brand Affinity
15:36 - Amazon Marketing Cloud
18:47 - Media-Driven Customer vs Organically-Driven Customer
20:22 - How to Deliver Optimal Results
23:13 - Advantage of Working Outside of Amazon
27:35 - The Omnichannel Solution
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/youval-peltier-74586319 | linkedin.com/in/andrew-tookey-64180623
Website: iderive.com
Related Post: Advertising Solutions by Amazon: A Closer Look into Amazon Ads

Episode 237 - Understanding What Amazon Wants and Making Unit Economics Work with Robb Green Dec 27, 2023

Unit economics assesses the profitability and sustainability of a business at the individual product or service level. By analyzing the costs and revenues associated with each unit sold, a company can determine whether its core offering is financially viable.
Rob, an entrepreneur at I'm The One Podcast, emphasizes the importance of product selection and unit economics in determining the success of a brand. He also discusses the changing landscape of selling on Amazon - highlighting the need for sellers to constantly evolve and adapt, and have a platform-first mentality by figuring out what Amazon wants.
Plus, learn what Rob has to say about multi-channel sales and the future of TikTok shops.
Episode Notes:
00:20 - Robb Green Introduction
01:49 - Best Part of Running Brands
02:38 - Product Selection and Unit Economics
04:31 - Strategy Shift
05:30 - Platform-first Mentality
06:21 - Using AI to Understand Customer Sentiment
07:10 - Using Data to Make Better and Quality Decisions
10:11 - Improvement on SQP Data
12:50 - What do Eight-figure Sellers Worry About?
15:13 - Allocating Time and Money for Multi-channel Sales
16:27 - The Future of TikTok Shops
17:45 - SmartScout for TikTok
20:51 - What Does TikTok Shops Want?
Website: https://imtheone.com/about-us/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imtheonepodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imtheonepodcast/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/Im-The-One-Podcast/
X: https://twitter.com/imtheonepodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imtheonepodcast/
Related Post: How to Sell on Amazon from Alibaba: A Beginner’s Guide

Episode 236 - Accounting for Amazon Sellers with Ryan Hurley Dec 18, 2023

Tax Compliance, Business Performance Analysis, Budgeting and Planning, Estimated Sales Velocity, and Risk Management are just some of the reasons why Accounting is crucial for any Amazon seller.
Ryan Hurley, the founder and lead developer of SellAnalytics, a software that helps Amazon sellers manage their accounting and inventory, teaches us the importance of accurate accounting, the limitations of existing tools such as A2X and QuickBooks, and how Sell Analytics offers a comprehensive solution for Amazon sellers.
Episode Notes:
00:39 - Ryan Hurley Introduction
03:56 - First Product Sold
04:11 - Solving Accounting Problems
05:14 - Tying Inventory into Cashflow
06:47 - Inventory value on QuickBooks
07:18 - What Do You Need To Know Before Filing
07:56 - Trial Balance
09:31 - QuickBooks vs Spreadsheets
10:01 - Why Bypass QuickBooks
14:01 - Learning How to Operate an Accounting Firm
15:21 - Building Other Sales Channels
15:59 - Learning How Much to Reinvest in the Business
Website: https://sellanalytix.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ryan-d-hurley
Related Post: 5 Ways To Turn Your Finances Into a Business Strength

Episode 235 - Delegation and Hiring Virtual Employees for Amazon Wholesale Dec 11, 2023

In this episode, host Scott Needham welcomes Corey Ganim, an expert in Amazon wholesale, to discuss the power of delegation and hiring virtual employees.
Corey shares his experience of leveraging overseas talents to delegate tasks that don't move the needle in his business. He emphasizes the importance of hiring employees who are willing to challenge and provide valuable input, rather than just being yes-men.
From managing Seller Central to handling administrative work, Corey provides practical tips on finding and training the right virtual assistants.
Episode Notes:
00:29 - Corey Ganim Introduction
01:00 - Creating Content for Wholesale Sellers on LinkedIn
02:25 - The Power of Delegation
02:50 - Screening and Finding Talents
06:40 - Common Hiring Mistakes
09:00 - Managing Seller Central
09:40 - AMZ United as a Participant
12:40 - Percentage of Brand New Amazon Sellers
14:10 - Opening Up New Accounts
16:50 - Navigating Distributor Relationships
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/corey-ganim
Website: gobrandrocket.com
X: @GanimCorey

Episode 234 - How To Get Leverage on Amazon Vendor Negotiations with Martin Heubel Dec 05, 2023

Amazon Vendor Negotiations are critical for vendors aiming to establish a successful and mutually beneficial relationship with the platform. A well-negotiated agreement can contribute to increased sales, improved visibility, and a stronger position within the competitive Amazon marketplace.
Join Scott and Martin Heubel as they discuss various aspects of Amazon's Vendor Central and how brands can navigate the platform.
Touching on topics such as the approach to Prime Day and other shopping holidays, the types of deals offered by vendors, the advantages of first-party brands in terms of visibility and placement, the shift in Amazon's relationships with distributors in Europe, and the reasons behind Amazon's reduced support for mid-tail and long-tail brands.
Plus, learn about Amazon's focus on automation and cost reduction, including the offshoring of support functions.
Episode Notes:
00:45 - Martin Heubel Introduction
02:15 - Vendor Central Experience and the Role of Vendor Managers
04:39 - Deal Exclusive to Vendor Brands
07:08 - 1P Relationships with Distributors in the United States
10:46 - Why Isn’t Amazon Not Meeting Expectations of 1P Brands?
15:15 - Amazon Reducing Cost
16:15 - What Does Amazon’s Hardball Look Like?
18:20 - Negotiating with Amazon
22:35 - Annual Vendor Negotiations
26:30 - The Future of Vendors
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/martinheubel
Website: consulterce.com
X: consulterce
Related post: The Vendor Central Database of Amazon Brands

Episode 233 - The New Seller Fulfilled Prime Is Back and Open for Business Nov 28, 2023

Seller Fulfilled Prime is crucial for sellers looking to optimize their fulfillment operations, reduce costs, and enhance their competitiveness in the Amazon marketplace.
It provides a strategic alternative to FBA, offering greater control, flexibility, and the ability to meet the high expectations of Amazon Prime customers.
Whether you're a seasoned seller or just starting, this episode featuring Manish Chowdhary, Founder & CEO at Cahoot -the World's first P2P Fulfillment Network for Brands and retailers- provides actionable information to navigate the ever-evolving dynamics of e-commerce fulfillment.
Episode notes:
00:15 - Manish Chowdhary Introduction
00:40 - Amazon FBA Programs
01:45 - Seller Fulfilled Prime Program Requirements
05:10 - Delivery Speed Metric
08:15 - Who is Seller Fulfilled Prime Best For?
“It’s a myth that FBA is cheaper across the board.” -Manish
10:50 - Multi-Channel Fulfillment
11:55 - Lawsuits and Latest News About Amazon SFP
15:40 - Seller Fulfilled Prime For Specific Shipping Regions
19:10 - Adoption of Seller Fulfilled Prime
20:25 - Seller Fulfilled Prime Application
21:05 - Seller Fulfilled Prime Trial
23:35 - Amazon Fees
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/manish-chowdhary
Website: Cahoot.ai
X: PulseCommerce
Related Post: FBA Doesn’t Always Beat FBM: When to Pick One for New Sellers

Episode 232 - How To Build an Amazon Brand That Avoids the Chinese Sellers Nov 21, 2023

Chinese Amazon sellers are growing and getting better at listings - adopting AI to make better photos, videos, and A+ content.
How can you, a U.S. brand, differentiate your business from this kind of saturation?
Listen and learn from Andy Isom, a YouTuber, a Podcaster, and a Business Coach, as he teaches how to build an Amazon brand that distinguishes itself from Chinese sellers.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Andy Isom Introduction
03:15 - Selling on Amazon with Andy Isom
05:30 - Transparency to Audience
08:40 - Analyzing Brands
10:25 - Chinese Third-Party Sellers
10:55 - Advantages of U.S.-based Sellers
12:10 - Chinese Brands Utilizing AI
12:40 - The Need to Separate Your Brand from Chinese Sellers
13:35 - Conversation-piece Products
17:20 - Building a Brand Community
18:40 - Unrealistic Expectations When Starting Out
20:55 - Kickstart Models
22:30 - Using AI for Generating Product Concepts
23:35 - Difference Between New Sellers of Then and Now
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andyisom
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/52L8k1GbdWb4mngZNp92b7
Related Post: Yes, E-Commerce in Latin America Is Worth It

Episode 231 - How a One-Man Machine Is the Best Growth Strategy for Amazon With Aaron Moore Nov 14, 2023

Need a full-service, one-stop-shop for your Amazon business?
Store Creation, Inventory, Listing Optimization, CPC Advertising, and more, Aaron Moore, your remote director of Amazon, will deliver results.
Learn the advantages of choosing a solo-operated agency over larger teams, plus other strategies that will take your Amazon business to the next level.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Aaron Moore Introduction
03:10 - Advantages of single operator agency
05:30 - Aaron’s Multiple Skillset Sources
“Get in there, get your hands dirty, and up. Do the work” -Aaron
09:30 - Finding Clients as a Single Operator Agency
11:25 - Going Up Against Other Agencies
13:30 - How Does Aaron Feel About Outsourcing Tasks?
15:00 - Biggest Sales Contributor
18:10 - Setting Up Financing
18:55 - Aaron’s Preferred Brands
20:50 - The Patent Wars
25:20 - Pulling Data From SmartScout
28:05 - SmartScout Subcategories
29:05 - Targeting Products
31:40 - Amazon in 5-10 Years
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/theamzaaron
Website: www.mooreamazon.com
Related Post: Amazon Growth Agency Becomes Adept With SmartScout

Episode 230 - Aged Inventory Is Working Against Your Amazon Business Nov 08, 2023

Aged inventory can be a silent, but substantial, hindrance to the growth and profitability of your Amazon business.
Non-moving products, especially in Q4, can lead to long-term storage fees.
In this short but information-packed episode, Scott reveals the challenges posed by aged inventory and offers effective strategies to address this issue and optimize your Amazon business.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Amazon FBA Fees and Stale Inventory
02:10 - Monthly Storage Fee
02:45 - Long-term Storage Fee
03:45 - Removal Fees
05:15 - Storage Utilization Surcharge
05:45 - Capital and Opportunity Cost
06:00 - Cost-effective Ways to Sell Aging Inventory
06:35 - Proper Way of Discounting
08:10 - How to Sell When You Don’t Have Traffic
09:15 - Use Tools to Manage Inventory
Related Post: How To Sell Through Amazon Aged and Stale Inventory

Episode 229 - When Does Maximizing Amazon Profits Start To Hurt You With Jason Henan Oct 31, 2023

When selling on Amazon, maximizing your profits is crucial for the success of your e-commerce business.
But what happens when it starts to backfire and hurt your bottom line?
We got Jason Hanan, co-founder of AZsellerkit, to give us the fine details of what could potentially destroy your whole Amazon listing and the steps to take to aggressively reverse the effects.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Jason Hanan Introduction
04:25 - How to Optimize Variation Listing
07:40 - Pulling Out a Variation That Hurts Your Whole Listing
09:55 - The Power of Coupons
11:30 - Engagement from Price Variation
12:05 - SmartScout Rank Tracker
12:50 - Which Variants Are on Which Keywords
13:55 - The Influence of Amazon Pricing Structure
17:10 - Pricing Pain Points and Profit Maximization
19:30 - Raising Prices Without Hurting Velocity
24:15 - Test Pricing on Items
27:00 - Ad Spends and Returns
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-hanan-3a448013/
Website: AZsellerkit.com
Related Post: Amazon Variation Listing: An Ultimate Guide [2023]

Episode 228 - Turn Amazon Seller Support From a Frustration to a Solved Problem With Seller Candy Oct 24, 2023

While Amazon Seller Support plays a vital role in assisting sellers, some may find it annoying or frustrating due to various reasons.
When support is broken, It disrupts the user experience and also hurts the end consumers.
Learn the weirdest pain point of selling on Amazon and how Seller Candy solved the problem of Amazon Seller Support with the Seller Candy Founder Josh Cavendish and the Smartest Amazon Seller Scott Needham.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - John Cavendish Introduction
01:55 - Amazon Seller Support Going Downhill
02:45 - Biggest Problem on Seller Support
03:45 - Why is Amazon Seller Support Bad at Helping?
08:10 - Is Seller Candy’s Solution for All Types of Sellers?
10:35 - Seller Candy’s Service Model
12:00 - Will Amazon Ever Solve Seller Support Issues
12:30 - Weaponzing Seller Support
13:00 - Seller Candy’s Ask Portal
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thejohncavendish
Website: sellercandy. com
Related Post: What To Do When Amazon Seller Support Does Not Answer Your Question?

Episode 227 - Top Amazon Seller Pattern. Strength and Weakness Analysis With Jason Landro of Nectar Oct 17, 2023

From Amazon selling to running a premier e-commerce services agency that helps brands grow on Amazon, Walmart, and Shopify, Nectar Co-founder Jason Landro sparked a controversial topic about Pattern, the largest reseller of products on Amazon.
In this episode, learn why Jason thinks pure wholesalers/resellers will go extinct as well as the strengths and weaknesses of Pattern’s business model.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Jason Landro Introduction
01:00 - Jason’s Background
01:40 - Pattern’s Business Model
03:10 - Pattern’s Weaknesses
08:55 - Risk of Taking on Inventory
11:00 - Pattern’s Strengths
12:35 - Selling Direct
16:00 - 1p Dynamic Change
18:50 - What Adding Value Means
20:10 - Pattern’s Valuation
22:25 - Rising Fulfillment Costs
25:30 - Final Thoughts
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jasonlandro Website: thinknectar.com
Related Post: When Our Amazon Sales Shrunk, Our Profits Grew $2M+

Episode 226 - How To Succeed in Competitive Categories With Tim Angel Oct 10, 2023

Here's another strong brand with exceptional execution that has achieved an impressive milestone.
ZUGU, the brainchild of CEO Tim Angel, has generated more than $1 million in monthly revenue.
Tim's journey with his company began in 2010 when he recognized the frustration of dealing with iPad cases that couldn't provide a stable and functional solution. At just 25 years old, he embarked on a mission to create the world's best and most innovative case, emphasizing the perfect balance between function and aesthetics.
Tim and Scott will walk you through the process of picking the right product, innovating it, gaining high review scores, and succeeding in competitive categories.
Episode Notes:
00:22 - Tim Angel Introduction
01:15 - Tim’s Journey
03:55 - Selling Direct vs Selling on Amazon
05:00 - The 5-Star Rating Secret
07:05 - Selling Momentum
08:30 - Being Different From Competition
10:45 - Is Design Patent Necessary?
11:50 - Product Innovation Process
14:55 - Tim’s Future Plans
15:55 - Getting Ahead of Competition
17:05 - Finding Opportunity and Creating Unique Products
19:35 - Importance of Having Drive and Passion
Don’t take no for an answer when you’re trying to build your company - Tim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zugucase/
Website: ZooGue.com
YouTube: youtube.com/user/ZooGueBROKEtoRICH
X: ZooGue | TheRealTimAngel
Related Post: When Our Amazon Sales Shrunk, Our Profits Grew $2M+

Episode 225 - Cashflow Forecasting Is Key With Viably Oct 03, 2023

Cash flow forecasting is a critical financial management tool that provides insights into the timing and amount of cash inflows and outflows. It aids in financial planning, risk management, and overall financial health, making it an indispensable practice for businesses.
Having access to capital and enough inventory is critical to keep your Amazon business growing. And with so much money coming in and out, Oz Merchant of Viably tells us all the reasons why cash flow is the lifeblood of the business.
Episode Notes:
01:00 - Oz Merchant Introduction
01:50 - Creation of Viably
04:00 - How To Use Cashflow in Your Business
06:05 - Cashflow Forecasting
09:55 - Focus on the ROI Instead of the Cost
11:00 - The Volume Advantage
14:00 - Utilizing Viably’s Working Capital
16:40 - Do You Always Need Capital?
20:00 - Using Viably’s Cashflow Tool
Website: https://www.runviably.com/about-us/ | wellistic.com
Blog: gomindhacking.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ozmerchant
Twitter: ozmerchant
Related Post: The Best Financing Loans for Amazon Sellers

Episode 224 - How ChatGPT Can Help With Amazon PPC With Ritu Java Sep 26, 2023

Content and Idea Generation, Programming Assistance, Legalities and Business, and even Entertainment, ChatGPT's versatility allows for numerous other applications limited only by imagination and creativity.
Amazon sellers can also utilize this powerful tool to assist with various aspects of Amazon Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising by providing information, tips, and guidance.
Rita Java from PPC Ninja takes AI utilization to the next level and discusses how her team successfully harnesses the AI tool's hidden capabilities, resulting in a monthly time savings of approximately 500 work hours.
Episode Notes:
00:25 - Ritu Java Introduction
03:05 - How Does Chat GPT Help in the PPC Game?
05:00 - Chat GPT on Steroids - Advanced Data Analysis
07:30 - Feeding Data to Chat GPT
10:00 - Apps Script x Chat GPT
12:00 - Asking Chat GPT to Generate Trends per SKU
13:50 - Optimizing Listings with ChatGPT
15:50 - SmartScout Brand Analysis
16:20 - Changing Bid Recommendations
17:05 - Going After Competitors with ChatGPT
19:15 - Using Broad Match Modifiers
21:50 - Generating Sponsored Brand Headline Ads
24:40 - Upper and Bottom of Funnel
Website: About Us | PPC Ninja
LinkedIn: Ritu Java | LinkedIn
Related Post: Pacvue vs. Perpetua - Which PPC Bid Management Tool is Best for You?

Episode 223 - How To Win Amazon Profits With Better Pricing Sep 20, 2023

Here’s another episode that’ll surely make you a better Amazon seller.
Scott reshares his AMZ United speech about pricing where you can pick up some awesome tools and strategies to potentially increase your net margins.
The highly-successful Amazon Seller conference is specifically focused on wholesaling but Scott’s talk has more to it than just that.
Sit back and relax as you ride a free pass to Scott’s valuable pricing insights.

Episode 222 - AMZ United Pushes Forward What’s Possible With Amazon FBA Sep 12, 2023

Scott shares his experience and expresses gratitude to the 700 attendees of the highly successful AMZ United, an Amazon Seller conference that just went live on August.
Hear his 6 weeks worth of insights packed into this quick but informative podcast.
Episode Notes:
00:35 - The AMZ United Experience
05:30 - Brand Control, Consumer Trends, And Managing Content
07:15 - Amazon Accelerate
09:15 - Amazon Seller Issuing Stock Options
10:15 - What I Invest in an Amazon Seller and Why
12:45 - Latest Update from Amazon
Related Post: The Best Software Tools for an Amazon FBA Wholesale Seller

Episode 221 - What Amazon Sellers Should Know About the Influencer Program Sep 05, 2023

What if you can leverage Amazon’s existing traffic and profit from it?
Check out the Amazon Influencer Program - a perfect side-hustle and a more approachable way to start your digital marketing journey.
We have Corbin White, the owner of ZoCo Marketing, answering interesting digital marketing questions such as the potential earnings, video types, number of followers, and all the challenges one may encounter in the Amazon Influencer Program.
Episode Notes:
00:20 - Corbin White Introduction
01:45 - What is the Amazon Influencer Program?
03:15 - How Much Does Amazon Pay in Commission?
03:35 - Corbin White’s Background
04:55 - Number of Followers vs User Engagement
05:30 - How To Get Approved for On-site Commissions
05:50 - What Makes a Good Video Review?
07:00 - Does Video Quality Matter?
07:40 - How Much Can You Earn per Month as an Amazon Influencer
09:00 - Where Do The Videos Appear
10:35 - Doing Unbiased Product Reviews
13:45 - Selling the Rights of the Video
14:55 - Where to Find Corbin
15:35 - Corbin’s Top-Performing Product
16:40 - Challenges of the Amazon Influencer Program
Request Form: Request Amazon Review/ Shoppable Videos
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZoCoMarketing
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zocomarketing
Twitter: CorbinWhite13
Website: zocomarketing.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corbinwhite/
Related Post: Boost Your Amazon Business With Video Content

Episode 220 - Insights on Research Validation and Data Driven Approach with Isabela Ritz Aug 29, 2023

The Amazon research process holds significant importance due to its direct influence on successful business strategies, informed decision-making, and optimal resource allocation within the Amazon marketplace.
With a wealth of expertise under the banner of Ritz Momentum, Isabela Ritz shares her guaranteed strategies in building high-profit Amazon products that beat the competition as well as her top 5 go-to tools for market research and product launch.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Isabela Ritz Introduction and Backstory
03:45 - Isabela’s Research Process
06:50 - How to Determine Low Competition
08:50 - Can You Create a Market Demand?
13:20 - Isabela’s Favorite Data Research Tools
13:50 - SellerTools Chrome Extension
15:25 - SmartScout Popping Topics Hack
18:45 - SmartScout Share of Voice
21:55 - Brand Revenue on Share of Voice
22:40 - Validating New Ideas
Website: ritzarm.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/izabellaritz
Related Post: Amazon Variation Listing: An Ultimate Guide [2023]

Episode 219 - Reduce the Impact of Returns on Your Amazon Business With Onsite Support Aug 22, 2023

Shipping costs, wasted time, dealing with customer service, and other fees are just some of the pain points of Amazon Returns.
Here’s where Onsite Support comes in. It’s a solution, co-designed with Amazon, that will help alleviate returns.
We have Joe Abitbol to tell us how Amazon Sellers can improve their bottomline, reduce negative reviews, acquire loyal customers, and generate repeat business.
Episode Notes:
00:50 - Joe Abitbol Introduction
01:45 - Joe’s First Taste Into E-commerce
02:45 - Amazon Returns Pain Points
04:10 - Onsite Support
05:45 - Product Support Rules
“It can take 3 sales just to cover the cost of 1 return” - Joe
09:30 - Amazon Return Case Study
11:05 - Why Resolution Speed Matters
13:20 - Threecolts Partnership
15:50 - Future of Returns and Refunds
Website: http://onsitesupport.io/
Email: joe@onsitesupport.io
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joseph-abitbol-75035780
Related Post: Amazon Ungated Categories: Everything You Need to Know (2023)

Episode 218 - Coworking Warehouse Space on the Fly With LoLoft Aug 15, 2023

Brendan Howell, CEO of Loloft Inc., sits down with Scott and shares how to elevate your Amazon business by getting instant access to flexible workspace and storage options tailored to your needs.
With a shared kitchen space, conference rooms, warehouse managers, phone booths, and lockable warehouses, Loloft provides modern warehouse solutions to small and growth-stage companies.
Episode notes:
00:35 - Brendan Howell and Loloft Introduction
01:50 - Brendan’s Backstory
04:20 - Scott’s Experience in Warehousing
06:00 - Innovative Warehousing Solution
08:10 - What Equipment Does Loloft Offer
09:20 - Combining Loloft and 3PL
10:50 - Loloft Locations
12:00 - Non-traditional, Aesthetically Pleasing Warehouse
13:15 - Working and Connecting with Communities
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendan-howell-115a1445
Website: loloft.com
Twitter: bhowell000
Related Post: How To Leverage Reverse Logistics for a Competitive Advantage

Episode 217 - Winning Easy and Big in Amazon Spain and Italy With Jordi Cascant Aug 08, 2023

Started in an unlikely way through an Amazon Campus Challenge, explore the journey of Jordi Cascant as he elevated his Amazon business to new heights following his victorious achievement.
Now a 7-Figure Amazon FBA Seller, Jordi shares with Scott his secrets to dominating the Spain Marketplace.
Episode Notes:
00:25 - Jordi Cascant Introduction
01:10 - Amazon Campus Challenge
02:20 - Jordi’s Secret to Winning
03:05 - Taking the Amazon Business to the Next Level
03:35 - Amazon Communities in Spain and the USA
04:15 - Why Jordi is Winning in the Spain Marketplace
06:10 - Insights That are Unique to Spain, France, and Italy
07:00 - Advertising Spending
07:50 - The Future of Amazon Spain Marketplace
08:50 - Patenting in the International Level
09:50 - Jordi’s Next Business Plans
11:10 - Amazon Seller Events in Spain
12:05 - Launching in New Marketplaces
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jordi-cascant
Related Post: Introducing AMZ United 2023 - The First-Ever Conference for Amazon Wholesale Sellers

Episode 216 – In the Trenches of Partnering With Brands for Exclusives With Isaiah Fritz Aug 01, 2023

Learn how taking risks got Isaiah Fritz, CEO and Founder of Online Selling Partner, his first brand exclusives and how these partnerships impact the market.
Join Scott and Isaiah as they cover brand partnership, diminishing brand risks, the next 10 years on Amazon, advertising strategies, and plans backed with case studies and proven data.
Also discover how Online Selling Partner assesses brands using SmartScout’s Data, helping it become the best Amazon growth machine in the world.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Isaiah Fritz Introduction
01:00 - How Isaiah Found Out About the Smartest Amazon Seller
02:05 - Coupons as a Marketing Tool
03:15 - Isaiah Fritz Back Story
06:15 - Partnering with Brands for Exclusives
12:45 - The Next Decade on Amazon
16:10 - How To Approach Partnering With Brands
19:50 - How SmartScout Helps Assess a Brand’s Performance
21:20 - What’s an Unbeatable Offer for a Brand?
22:45 - How Important Are Case Studies and Experience When Partnering With Brands?
27:20 - Contacting Brands for a Potential Partnership
30:50 - Online Selling Partner Hiring Process
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/isaiah-fritz
Website: Onlinesellingpartner.com
Related Post: How to Find the Most Trending Searches on Amazon

Episode 215 – So Long Small and Light, Hello Seller Fulfilled Prime and Updates on AMZ United Jul 25, 2023

What’s the latest in the Amazon space in the last 2 months? What’s hot and upcoming?
Learn the latest updates about the big changes in the Small and Light and Seller Fulfilled Prime programs. Plus, get early insights about the first-ever conference for Amazon Wholesale Sellers - the AMZ United 2023.
Episode Notes:
00:35 - Small and Light
03:40 - Seller Fulfilled Prime
06:00 - AMZ United
Related Post: Introducing AMZ United 2023 - The First-Ever Conference for Amazon Wholesale Sellers

Episode 214 - The Amazon Mexico Opportunity with Mike Begg of AMZ Advisers Jul 18, 2023

Dive into the vast potential of the Amazon marketplace in Mexico.
With its growing e-commerce market, increasing disposable income, rising demand for imported goods, and more, moving products to Mexico presents a significant opportunity for Amazon sellers.
Join your host Scott Needham with Mike Begg, co-founder of AMZ Advisers, as they give us an overview of the rapidly growing market of Mexico.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Mike Begg Introduction
02:00 - Mexico Marketplace Overview
03:20 - Amazon’s North America Remote Fulfillment (NARF) Program
05:00 - The Latin America Strategy
08:35 - Big Categories With Huge Demand in Mexico
09:30 - Is There an Arbitrage Opportunity in Mexico?
11:35 - Getting Approval
12:45 - Advertising Cost in Mexico
“When I look at the opportunities in Mexico, it’s almost unlimited if you just get a little creative on how you want to reach.” - Mike Begg
15:20 - Mike Begg’s Amazon Journey
17:20 - What Excites Mike to Start a New Business
19:15 - The Advantage of Hiring Talents Abroad
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mbegg
Website: amzadvisers.com
Related Post: Amazon Ungated Categories: Everything You Need to Know (2023)

Episode 213 - The Best Way To Get Product Reviews Removed on Amazon With TraceFuse Jul 11, 2023

Positive ratings and reviews on Amazon can greatly influence consumer behavior and purchasing decisions. High ratings and positive reviews serve as social proof - building trust and credibility for your product or brand. However, some fraudulent practices out there will keep attacking your business with fake feedback.
How do you protect your product or brand from this? And more importantly, how do you properly file cases and take down fake negative reviews the white hat way?
Learn those and more with Scott, your Smartest Amazon Seller host, and Shane Barker, founder of TraceFuse, a pioneering company behind the TOS-compliant Amazon Negative Review Removal system.
Episode Notes:
00:25 - Shane Barker Introduction
02:25 - Shane Barker Background
05:00 - Removing Negative Amazon Reviews the White Hat Way
12:15 - The FTC Taking on Fake Accounts
14:05 - How Amazon Averages Reviews
17:15 - TraceFuse’s Negative Review Removal Rate
20:00 - The Proper Way To File Cases
21:50 - TraceFuse’s Business Model
23:30 - The Future of Amazon Reviews
TraceFuse & The Smartest Amazon Seller Special Offer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebarker/
Email: shane@shanebarker.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shane_barker
Website: www.shanebarker.com
Related Post: Amazon Ungated Categories: Everything You Need to Know (2023)

Episode 212 - Making Smart Supply Chain Decisions and Understanding the State of Inventory Planning With Luminous Jul 04, 2023

Under and overstocking? Wrong supply chain decisions can directly affect your bottom line.
Yes, inventory management can be painful - especially if you’re not using the right tools. For small brands signing up for enterprise tools, it can feel like using a sledgehammer to a tiny nail or a bazooka to kill a single fly.
Effective inventory planning is essential for businesses to balance customer demand, optimize cash flow, minimize costs, streamline operations, and adapt to market dynamics
Learn what tools are fit for your business, what modern Ecommerce brands are, the supply chain struggles, why inventory systems are so hard to implement, and a lot more with your Smartest Amazon Seller host, Scott, and the Founder and CEO of Luminous, Jared Ward.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Jared Ward Introduction
03:00 - The Pain For Inventory Tool
04:35 - What Is the Modern E-commerce Brand?
07:25 - Challenges of Committing to NetSuite
12:45 - Future Inventory Challenges To Be Solved
15:10 - The Flexibility of Luminous
16:10 - What Types of Clients Fit perfectly with Luminous?
17:10 - Is Luminous for Everyone?
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jared-ward-bb96a115b/
Website: https://www.joinluminous.com/
YouTube: @joinluminous
Instagram: @joinluminous
Related Posts: An Amazon Seller’s Guide to Liquidating Inventory

Episode 211 - Getting Better Data Out of Amazon the Easy Way Jun 21, 2023

Amazon API provides businesses and developers with valuable resources, insights, and opportunities to enhance their offerings, streamline operations, and make data-driven decisions in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.
Amazon has multiple APIs, but how do you pick which is right for your business? Are you ready to commit to a developer?
Let Scott and Will answer all those and more with this fun episode about how similar getting bad dates are to getting bad data.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Will Introduction
06:05 - Dealing with Bad Data
09:20 - Getting a Developer Means Commitment
11:20 - Prosper’s Focus
12:50 - Partnering with Delta Logic
14:45 - Building on Someone Else’s Layer To Speed Things Up
15:45 - Marketplace Reports
17:20 - Selling Partner API and Advertising API
Innovation is fastest where the money is growing the most for Amazon - Will Christensen
18:00 - Amazon Creating a Media Juggernaut
19:50 - Amazon Protecting Data
20:45 - The Dangers of Using Bots for Data Scraping
21:50 - The Rebates
24:15 - Sellers That Get The Most Value Out of Reports
25:30 - How Profitable Are You?
27:25 - Price Elasticity Gap
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/will-christensen
Website: dataautomation.com
Related Post: Tap Into the Insights Your Amazon Business Needs

Episode 210 - Exploring the Latest Developments in the Amazon PPC Space With Vince (Sir TACoS) Montero Jun 13, 2023

As an Amazon seller, it’s always beneficial to continuously find ways to reach more audience and increase visibility or discoverability. You want all the competitive advantage of gaining insights to target the right buyers and drive sales.
In this episode, Scott is joined by Vince (Sir TACoS) Montero, an Amazon Ads Strategist and PPC consultant. You don’t want to miss on their juicy insights about the latest ad campaign trends, where Amazon is dedicating its resources, and a lot more.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Vince Montero Introduction
01:05 - The Future of Amazon PPC
03:40 - Sponsored Brands Video vs Sponsored Display Video
05:55 - How to Take Advantage of the New Top Placement
07:00 - What Triggers a Video Rejection?
07:45 - Best Places to Put UGCs
08:50 - Why Is Amazon Leaning Into Branding Type Elements
11:30 - New Amazon Features and Innovation
12:30 - The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Amazon Sellers
19:05 - Learning From Mistakes
20:15 - Latest Trends on Video Creation with AI
22:30 - AMZ United
23:30 - Working with Mina Elias
Website: triviumco.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vmontero | linkedin.com/company/trivium-group-llc/
Related Post: Top 20 Amazon PPC Advertising Software and Tools With Pricing

Episode 209 - Amazon on Site Editorials Are Gone. What To Do To Grow Sales. Jun 06, 2023

Gain valuable insights on the evolving Amazon landscape in 2023 and discover effective strategies to enhance your sales.
In this episode, Scott provides an update on the changing dynamics, giving you options to maximize your business's growth and success.
Learn the latest on brand acquisitions, editorials, what’s new with SmartScout, and the much-awaited, wholesale-focused Amazon Conference from AMZ United.
01:10 - Amazon aggregator SellerX acquired Elevate Brands
03:45 - Removal of On-Site Editorials
05:20 - Capture What’s Trending Fast with Popping Topics
07:10 - AMZ United
Related Posts:
Amazon FBA, Where Are We Headed in 2023? The Future Is Bright!
Episode 82: Two heads are better than one. How I run BuyBoxer with a little Help

Episode 208 - Custom Software Development for Amazon Nerds With Jakob of Deltologic Jun 01, 2023

For Amazon businesses with complex software needs, there’s no one size fits all solution. Here’s where Custom Software Development comes in.
Why do you need one?
Should you turn to freelancers for building this custom software?
Or pick an agency with a robust team that works with big Fortune 500 companies?
Join Scott with his guest Jakob Wolitzki from Deltologic as they highlight the importance of hiring a professional team when building a custom dashboard for data visualization, monitoring, repricing, etc.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Jakob Wolitzki Introduction
02:00 - Insights from Sellers
04:10 - Common Issues for Developers
05:20 - What is API?
05:45 - Going All In With Custom Software
06:35 - Freelances vs Agencies for Custom Tools
08:00 - Deltologic Tools
10:30 - Why Existing Solutions Are Not For Everyone
13:50 - Deltologic Microservice
20:50 - API Changes
Website: https://deltologic.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jakob-wolitzki
Related Post: 18 Best Software Tools for Amazon Online Arbitrage Sellers

Episode 207 - An Innovative Approach to Market Research and Launch Strategy with Alina Vlaic May 23, 2023

In today's rapidly evolving marketplace, your strategy as a seller must also keep up with the changes.
Tune in for a fresh perspective as Alina Vlaic of AZ Rank unlocks the secrets behind her game-changing approach to market research and launch strategy. Learn the latest trends and techniques that reshape how products are researched and introduced.
Allow your business to gain a competitive edge and reach its target audience more effectively.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Alina Vlaic Introduction
01:10 - Alina’s Amazon Magic Journey
04:55 - The Rebates Background
06:25 - “Scan, Test, Observe, and Report” is the new “Search Find Buy”
“You cannot rely on just a single thing during launch…, you should do a little bit more.” The one’s that actually really succeeded, they had a really complex launch plan.” - Alina
12:25 - Leveraging Audience to Create User-Generated Content
18:20 - How to utilize AZ Rank’s Partner Publishers
Email: alina@azrank.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alina-vlaic-8b77876a
Website: azrank.com | pressx.live
Related Post: The Complete Guide to Amazon UGC

Episode 206 - A Fast-Launch Option to the European Marketplace With Stef van Boekel May 16, 2023

If you’ve had success in the U.S. marketplace and are now aiming to go overseas, this episode is for you.
Understand the Amazon Europe Ecosystem, the importance of buyer maturity, the challenges of the overseas marketplace, and how you can penetrate the European market fast with Scott and Stef van Boekel of Marketplace Distri.
Episode Notes:
00:20 - Stef van Boekel Introduction
01:15 - What Is the Amazon Europe Ecosystem?
02:35 - Challenges of New Amazon Marketplaces
07:20 - Tackling Physical Presence
09:10 - Amazon Infrastructure as a Service
12:10 - Synchronizing Reviews Overseas
15:25 - The Maturity of the Marketplace
16:40 - Differences between the European and the U.S. Community
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stefvanboekel
Website: marketplacedistri.com | eubusinessdevelopment.com
Related Post: What is Amazon Multi-Country Inventory?

Episode 205 - Unlocking the Powers of the Publishers To Grow Your Amazon Business With David Katz May 09, 2023

Talk about a win-win situation.
Publishers that can directly connect with brands to get paid more, and brands that can get more eyes on their products and boost their profit.
Everyone is happy.
Learn how sellers and publishers can partner up using this latest platform. Co-Founded by David Katz, Archer Affiliates is the gold standard of Affiliate Marketing for Amazon Brands.
00:25 - David Katz Introduction
01:20 - Where Archer Affiliates Was Born
04:15 - TikTok vs Traditional Publishers
05:40 - Onsite Editorials
06:20 - What Does Archer Affiliates Offer?
07:05 - Amazon Onsite Program
09:35 - Why You Should Choose Archer Affiliates
11:40 - How To Increase Net Margin
12:20 - Having Years of Repurchases From Customers
13:30 - What Products Sell Better Than Others?
15:05 - Sending Product Samples
16:15 - High Consideration Products
17:50 - The Publishers
20:40 - The Problems With Influencers
21:50 - How SmartScout Solved Affiliate Tracking Issues
23:20 - Setting Up An Account With Archer Affiliates
Website: https://archeraffiliates.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-katz-2641b8192
Email: dkatz@archeraffiliates.com
Related Post: How can Amazon Sellers Benefit from Affiliate Marketing?

Scott Launches an Amazon Conference, AMZ United. May 04, 2023

We talk about why AMZ United will be the Amazon conference that you do not want to miss.
It is one of a kind. You don't want to miss the action that will be in NYC on August 31st.
It's an exciting announcement. Thank you everyone for making it all possible!

Episode 204 - The Keepa Episode with Christoper Grant Apr 26, 2023

Getting insights on the best products to sell can provide an Amazon seller a huge advantage over competition. Seeing a clear sales log with historic graphs not only helps pursue but also avoid certain products.
That’s just one of the many things that you can get from Keepa — a simple chrome extension that packs a lot of data-gathering power that is shockingly up to date.
Take it from the experts and listen to Scott and Christoper Grant on how to efficiently use this tool to your advantage.
00:10 - Christoper Grant Introduction
01:45 - What is Keepa
02:35 - How Keepa Keeps its Data Up to Date
03:35 - The Best Things About Keepa For New and Experienced Amazon Sellers
04:45 - Insights on Price Stability
06:10 - Go Granular with Keepa Product Finder
08:15 - Where SmartScout Shines
09:35 - What Can 8-Figure Sellers Get From Keepa
11:00 - What To Do After Finding a Good Product
12:20 - Christopher’s Best Find
13:35 - Faster Ways To Find Keyword Trends
14:55 - The Power of TikTok Marketing
Website: https://cleartheshelf.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cleartheshelf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleartheshelf
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cleartheshelf
Related Post: The Best Software Tools for an Amazon FBA Wholesale Seller

Episode 203 - Getting Down to the Nitty-Gritty of Variation Listings With Elizabeth Greene Apr 18, 2023

When it comes to finding product styles or variations, Amazon's search results may not always be accurate. So how do Amazon sellers effectively structure ad listings for multiple or specific product options and ultimately help buyers find exactly what they want?
Elizabeth Greene, co-founder of Junglr, breaks down her top Amazon advertising strategies and uncovers the challenges of dealing with variation listings with Scott.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Elizabeth Greene Introduction
03:20 - How To Approach Advertising With Large Variation Listings
06:00 - Forcing a New Variation to Show
06:45 - Testing Variants To Determine Which One Converts
08:10 - How To Deal With Low Conversion Rates
14:40 - What Gets Good Conversion Rates
15:30 - Return Rates of Apparel
18:10 - Unique Issues of Specific Ad Variations
20:15 - The Best of Both Worlds Ad Strategy
22:50 - Understanding the Nuances of Every Category
24:20 - Going for the Cheap Click
Website: junglr.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-greene-junglr
Email: elizabeth@junglr.com
Related Post: 12 Best Amazon Listing Tools in 2023

Episode 202 - Fun Times with Josh Andrus Running Through Amazon Current Events Apr 11, 2023

Stay informed about current events with Scott and Josh as they focus on small and big changes in the Amazon industry.
Learn how these updates can affect sales, open new opportunities, expose bad vendor practices, improve customer satisfaction, and more.
Episode Notes:
00:35 - Josh Andrus Introduction
02:35 - Paying Attention to the Software World
03:05 - Helium 10 New Product Pricing
04:05 - Scott’s Full Analysis of Market Research Tools
05:05 - Josh’s Perspective on Helium 10’s Update
06:20 - Entry-Level Tools That Make Sense To Have
07:20 - SmartScout’s Newsletter
07:40 - Chinese Sellers Back on Amazon
09:20 - FTC Cracks Down on Review Manipulation
10:35 - Downloading Search Query Report from Amazon
13:10 - Other News Items
16:55 - Josh’s Favorite Tool
Website: smartscout.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joshuajandrus
Related Post: Amazon Analytics Software Comparison

Episode 201 - Putting Your Amazon Business on Steroids and the Need for Expert Consulting With Chris Shipferling Apr 04, 2023

What if you have a partner who shares your passion for your business? A team that helps you strategize, mitigate risks, and bring your business to the next level.
Enter South Col, an eCommerce accelerator that does not only infuse working capital into your business but also brings in 15 years of combined experience in investment banking, finance, operations, and sales and marketing.
If you want to rapidly scale with a strong team behind you, join Scott and Chris Shipferling, South Col’s founding partner, as they tell you the answers to the test on this juicy podcast.
Episode Notes:
00:40 - Chris Shipferling Introduction
01:30 - How Companies Pivot and Evolve
04:20 - Venture Run-Up and Run-Down
06:00 - Amazon Sellers Reverting to the Mean
07:35 - How E-Commerce Benefited From the Pandemic
08:10 - Help With Capital and Strategy
“Product is king, period. There’s no other way to slice it or dice it.” - Chris Shipferling
10:35 - How To Succeed on Amazon Without Being Lucky
“I don’t think you’ll win unless you specialize” - Scott
13:30 - What is South Col
15:55 - The Ultimate Exit
18:50 - Why Surround Yourself With Smart People
Website: https://www.southcol.co/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chrisshipferling
Related Post: What’s Up With Subcategories

Episode 200: How Amazon Sellers Are Using AI To Grow Mar 28, 2023

Work is Play. That’s how Scott feels about running his business. And with the advent of Artificial Intelligence, he found a new toy to play with. Incorporating SmartScout’s Amazon Data with the power of AI.
Join Scott as he shares his excitement about what he has been working on for the last 3 months, and learn how Amazon sellers can use AI technology to grow their businesses.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Scott’s Childhood Story
02:00 - The AI Sensation
03:10 - Combining AI with SmartScout’s Amazon Data
03:40 - Running SmartScout’s AI Listing Architect on Liquid Death
04:45 - Try SmartScout’s AI Architect for Free!
05:10 - AI-Generated Blog Post Ranks and Converts
“If your writing skills are just mediocre but your hustle and entrepreneurship skills are a little bit higher, there’s an opportunity here.” -Scott
Email: scott@smartscout.com
Website: www.smartscout.com
Related Post: Building Amazon Listings With AI

Episode 199 - High Quality Amazon Images in a Fraction of Time With AI-Powered DoMyShoot Mar 21, 2023

High-quality images are one of the most critical elements of a successful Amazon product listing. However, producing Amazon-ready photos can also drain your time and resources.
Imagine the time and money saved when you don’t have to rely on expensive equipment and manpower just to create a product image.
Stick around with Scott and Madison Wynsma, Head of Sales for Dresma, as they dissect the process of creating Amazon-compliant images using the AI-Powered DoMyShoot App, which offers impressive lead time and competitive pricing.
Episode Notes:
00:35 - Madison Wynsma Introduction
01:35 - Scott’s DoMyShoot Experience
04:00 - Challenges Of Making Product Images
05:00 - How DoMyShoot Can Help New and Existing Amazon Sellers
06:50 - DoMyShoot App Features
08:00 - What Goes On After Shooting An Image
08:40 - DoMyShoot Human Intervention
09:15 - DoMyShoot Pricing
10:00 - DoMyShoot Users and Partners
11:00 - Creating a Simple Photography Setup
12:25 - DoMyShoot Web Version
14:00 - DoMyShoot History
14:55 - DoMyShoot Background Templates
17:10 - DoMyShoot Free Credits
17:45 - Upcoming Tradeshows
Book a Demo
Website: https://www.domyshoot.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madisonwynsma/
Related Post: Building Amazon Listings With AI

Episode 198 – Why ACoS Is Old News and TACoS Is for Real With Ryan Flannagan Mar 15, 2023

How much money are you spending on your Amazon ads? What’s the ideal minimum budget?
Should you shift focus from ACoS to TACoS? How could this shift affect your Amazon ad spending?
Why is having a Multichannel perspective vital to your Amazon success?
Where can you get your Amazon advertising checked?
Join Scott in this insightful episode with Ryan Flannagan, the CEO of Nuanced Media, a full-service e-commerce marketing agency, as they tackle these critical questions about growing an Amazon business.
Learn from the experts the key areas you should prioritize to enhance brand recognition and boost your sales
Episode Notes:
00:20 - Ryan Flannagan Introduction
00:50 - How a Phenomena Can Affect Amazon Sales
03:15 - Nuanced Media Pivot
03:50 - Conversion Rates
“Amazon generally rewards sales with more sales.” - Scott
04:40 - Amazon Listing Optimization
06:25 - Does Keyword Frequency Matter?
07:25 - Biggest Amazon Marketing Opportunity
08:30 - Hardest Part About E-Commerce
09:30 - Split Testing Amazon Listing
12:10 - Amazon Brand Referral Program
12:30 - Why ACoS Is Old News
14:30 - Transitioning From ACoS to TACoS
15:45 - Were Is Nuanced Media Headed in 2023
17:00 - The Shopify Strategy
18:20 - Getting on Google Shopping
21:10 - Nuanced Media Services
Website: https://nuancedmedia.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanflannagan/
Twitter: RyanFlannagan | NuancedMedia
Related Post: SmartScout’s AI Listing Architect Tool

Episode 197: How To Do Reimbursements Right With Justin Coberly of Sifted Mar 07, 2023

Are you being charged incorrect fees by Amazon? Do you have information on the specific SKUs affected, the amount charged, and the reasons for the fees?
Amazon reimbursements can be a complex, time-consuming process. Let Scott Needham and Justin Coberly tell you how to do reimbursements right with Sifted. Justin also delved into the details of how Sifted not only allows companies to easily keep track of amazon reimbursements but also offers comprehensive data analytics that help spot trends and make informed decisions about purchases in the future.
00:50 - Sifted History
02:05 - Justin Coberly introduction
02:20 - Why It’s Worth Looking Into Sifted
03:10 - Sifted’s Growth
04:00 - How to Propel Revenue with Sales Heat Map
08:10 - Sifted’s FBA Fee Analyzer
09:10 - What Affects FBA Fulfillment Fees
11:15 - Peace of Mind with Sifted App
13:40 - Sifted’s Free Audit Analysis
14:30 - How Sifted Charge Users
16:05 - New Updates and Features of Sifted
Sifted Coupon Code: Welcome100
Sifted Monthly Product Demo
Website: https://sifted.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-coberly-086236123/
Related Post:
What are FBA Fulfillment Fees?

Episode 196: Helping Amazon Sellers Systematize Their Businesses With Michal Specian Feb 28, 2023

Scott sat down with Michal Specian, a specialist in helping Amazon sellers maximize their businesses. Together they discussed the benefits that Amazon sellers can gain from systematizing their operations, including enhanced efficiency for repetitive tasks, improved accuracy, and cost savings.
Michal also shared simple strategies that allowed their business to grow from 6 to 8 figures in just 4 years with the help of his business partner, Myles Dunphy.
Learn the secrets of developing a product, what to immediately do in the early business stages, and much more in this latest podcast.
Episode notes:
0:25 - Michal Specian Introduction and Background
1:15 - Finding Michal’s Business Partner
2:20 - Growing the Business From 6 to 8 Figures
2:55 - The Most Time-Consuming Task for Michal
3:15 - Michal’s First Hire
5:20 - Overseas Business Launching in the US
6:00 - 3-Step Strategy That Helped Business Growth
“Most good businesses are simple. Not easy, but simple.” - Scott
8:20 - Michal’s Successful SKUs
8:45 - Product Development and Unique Positioning
10:10 - Adding Product Variation
10:35 - Frequency of New Product Launches and Unifying the Brand
15:25 - What Michal Should Have Done Sooner
16:45 - Opportunities in the Amazon Space
“Do not start an Amazon business, start a brand and use Amazon as a Sales channel.” - Michal
17:45 - How Does Knowing the Customer Affect Business Decisions
19:55 - Michal’s Future Plans
24:00 - Using AI to Write Amazon Listings
Website: https://www.michalspecian.com/
Twitter: @michalspecian
Free Facebook Group: Advanced Amazon FBA Sellers | Systemize · Hire · Delegate · Scale
TikTok: michalspecian
Instagram: michalspecian.fba
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@michalspecian/videos
Related Post:
Everything You Need To Create Listings That Customers and Amazon Algorithms Love

Episode 195: Talking With Joseph Hansen, Top 3 Amazon Seller, Co-Founder of BuyBox Experts and Prosper Feb 21, 2023

Scott chats with Joseph Hansen, CMO @ Spreetail & CEO @ Buy Box Experts. Joseph is also one of the Top 3 sellers on Amazon in the world and he's determined to break obstacles that many beginners encounter on their journey to amazon success.
As a veteran amazon seller, Joseph has plenty of tips to share with anyone looking to up their amazon game.
Episode Notes:
0:25 - Joseph Hansen Introduction and Background
4:15 - Performance Marketing
6:10 - Bold Ideas Beat Experience
8:30 - Agency Expertise
11:45 - What Makes Spreetail Unique?
16:00 - Spreetail’s Specialization
17:45 - Oversized Products
19:00 - Spreetail’s Acquisition BBE (Buy Box Experts)
19:55 - What Performance Marketing Is About
20:35 - Buy Box Experts’ Focus
25:00 - Spreetail’s Future
28:10 - Lessons From Spreetail and BBE
“As a brand owner, a reseller, an aggregator, you have to get in the mind of your customer, … get the honest truth … to create success.” - Joseph
32:05 - Business Wisdom
Website: www.spreetail.com/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/spreetail/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/josephhansen/ | www.linkedin.com/company/spreetail/life/wearespreetail/
Related Post:
How Do the Top 10 Amazon Sellers Operate?

Episode 194: Helping Brands Understand Their Market With Trajan Bayly Feb 14, 2023

Scott chats with Trajan Bayly, CEO of Gray Falkon, as he highlights the importance of understanding one's market when it comes to brand awareness. He stresses using Amazon analytics to evaluate product performance; segment data to track customer behavior; and understand why people buy certain products and use feedback to shape related campaigns.
Through this method, Trajan believes a brand can accurately assess its current market position and use that knowledge to build a successful online presence while staying relevant amongst competitors.
Episode Notes:
1:10 - Trajan Bayly Introduction
1:40 - MAP (Minimum Advertised Price)
3:05 - Trajan’s Background Working With Amazon Brands
4:15 - Arbitrage Happens All the Time
6:35 - How Gray Falkon Helps Brands Understand Their Market
9:25 - The Good and Shady Sellers
10:30 - Money Laundering on Amazon
12:45 - How to Approach Intellectual Property
14:15 - Cleaning Up Bad Listings
15:05 - What’s the Future of Amazon Sellers and Brands?
16:50 - Using IP in a Good Way
17:55 - Identifying Brand-friendly Sellers
20:10 - Amazon Selling 10 Years From Now
25:35 - Gray Falcon’s Focus
Website: https://grayfalkon.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trajanbaylyceo/
Related Post:
What is The Amazon Brand Registry?

Episode 193: Finding Low-Cost Capital To Boost Your Amazon Business With CJ Gianatiempo Feb 07, 2023

Scott chats with CJ Gianatiempo to discuss the best ways for companies to acquire low-cost capital as a way to increase their growth on Amazon. With a wealth of knowledge about how amazon works and ample access to emerging funding services, CJ is helping business owners make sound investments in order to ensure success.
Whether it be through private equity or venture credits, CJ knows that the right financing option can be a great resource for amazon businesses.
Episode Notes:
0:35 - Carl "CJ" Gianatiempo Introduction
1:48 - CJ’s Background
2:20 - Why Banks Don’t Lend to E-Commerce Sellers
2:40 - The Opportunity and Braavo’s Concept
3:00 - The Structure of Financing for Amazon Sellers
4:20 - How To Get Up to $200K Loan in Under 2 Minutes
4:45 - Interest Rates Effect
6:40 - Challenges of Amazon Lending
7:25 - The Braavo Offer
9:30 - Traditional Bank vs Braavo
10:05 - How To Get Approved
11:10 - Liquidation Value on Amazon
12:35 - Loan Fluctuation
13:35 - Wall Street Journal Prime Rate
“If you are at the stage that you wanted to take on capital, just make sure that you trust your own accounting.” Scott.
15:35 - Why Braavo Is The Perfect Amazon Seller Partner
Website: www.braavobank.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-cj-gianatiempo-b1664b20/
Related Post:
The Best Financing Loans for Amazon Sellers

Episode 192: Turning Good Products Into Great Products With Advertising-Led Growth With Mina Elias Jan 31, 2023

Join Scott as he chats with Mina Elias, founder of Trivium Group & MMA Nutrition, about how effective advertising strategies can help sellers convert good products into great products. Get in-depth tips on how to effectively optimize conversion and click-through rates, and learn the benefits of increased metrics.
You can also find the answers to these interesting questions thrown inside this hot podcast.
What else can you do when your product hits the cap on market share?
How can you save on your advertising budget?
Where can you find competitive creatives?
What possible changes can you expect from Amazon this 2023?
Episode Notes:
0:20 - Mina Elias Introduction
1:00 - Anyone Can Sell Supplements
“You can’t be a slightly better product, you have to be a significantly better product.” -Mina
02:45 - Mina’s Monthly Revenue on Supplement Business
03:35 - Trivium’s History
04:45 - Investment Prioritization
“It’s easier to turn a good product into a great [product], than a bad product into an average product.” - Scott
06:40 - Mina’s Mindset and Strategies
10:15 - Advertising-led Growth
11:00 - Search Find Buy
11:55 - Movement on Rankings
13:00 - Using Price as a Lever
13:50 - Conversion Rate Optimization
14:40 - Competitive Creative Resources
18:30 - Helium 10’s Market Tracker
19:20 - Layering on DSP
20:25 - Why You Need an Agency To Use DSP
21:40 - Variation Pages From an Advertising Perspective
24:25 - Benefits of Having a High Click-Through and Conversion Rate
27:40 - Amazon in 2023
Trivium Free PPC Audit
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theminaelias/
Website: https://triviumco.com/
Related Post:
Advertising Solutions by Amazon: A Closer Look into Amazon Ads

Episode 191: How To Get Amazing Results With Sponsored Display Ads With Joshua Rawe Jan 24, 2023

Reduced visibility and reach, missed opportunities, difficulty competing with other sellers, and lack of control over ad placement are some of the drawbacks of not utilizing ad campaigns.
Learn how to effectively reach your targeted audience, stay above your competition, and get actionable strategies with Scott Needham and Joshua Rawe in their exciting discussion about Sponsored Display Ads.
Episode Notes:
00:49 - Joshua (Josh) Rawe's background
01:58 - Josh's Private Label Journey
03:40 - Sponsored Display
04:31 - Amazon's Growth From A Seller's Perspective
"...everything about Amazon advertising right now is prime for additional growth." - Joshua Rawe
05:14 - Shopping Intent
05:47 - Social Media's Role
05:59 - Main Advertising Types
06:36 - The Amazon Sales Funnel
06:59 - Funnel As The Search Term
07:48 - Where The Ads Are Displayed
09:46 - The Easiest First Steps To Convert Well
11:20 - Remarketing
12:46 - Why You Should Try Sponsored Display Ads
13:26 - When Ad Campaigns Don't Work
14:26 - Updating Bids
16:29 - Is High-Quality Production Needed?
17:17 - Transparency And Cutting The Fluff
"If you wanna solve someone's problem, solve it in two seconds on a video." - Scott Needham
19:29 - Benefit-driven Headlines
21:15 - Why Having An Advertising Budget Is Beneficial
22:39 - Stay Up to Date
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jrawe
Company: goespark.com
Twitter: @JoshuaRawe
Related Post:
Advertising Solutions by Amazon: A Closer Look into Amazon Ads

Episode 190: Fighting Back Against Brands Abusing Brand Registry With Paul Rafelson Jan 17, 2023

Amazon Brand Registry is a great tool for Amazon business owners who want to protect their brand and safeguard their intellectual property. But unfortunately, it can also be abused.
Join Scott as he chats with Paul Rafelson about how Amazon sellers can thrive in reselling and fight back against brands that are abusing brand registry. Paul shares powerful strategies that can come in handy during false IP claims and offers Amazon account health support through its affordable program called SellerBasics.
Episode Notes:
00:57 - Paul's background
02:03 - Brand Registry
02:41 - Counterfeits
04:31 - Paul's First IP Complaint
05:02 - Why Dealers Hate Resellers
05:36 - How Do Brands Submit Claims?
07:00 - Why Counterfeit With A Test Buy Is A Scary Claim
07:31 - Why Sellers Need To Have Good Product Documentation
08:33 - How To Thrive In Reselling
09:21 - How Seller Basics Can Help During An IP Claim
14:50 - How To Let Amazon Know A Brand Is Abusing Brand Registry
"Amazon sellers, it's an Uberization concept...it is supplier on demand" - Paul Rafelson
22:14 - What Does Trademark Infringement Mean?
23:27 - What Is Pretextual?
25:04 - What is Amazon's Definition Of Trademark Infringement?
26:43 - What Is The Future Of IP Claims?
29:17 - Seller Basics
Website: www.sellerbasics.com
Twitter: @SellerBasics
Related Post:
Winning the Bogus IP Claim War on Amazon

Episode 189: Running your Amazon business from Spreadsheets Jan 10, 2023

Join Scott as he talks with David Lang and Ryan Sherrard as they discuss how Amazon is known for being a powerful platform for both small and large businesses alike. From Amazon merchants to Amazon Marketplace sellers, it's an important hub of activity and stream of revenue for many entrepreneurs. David Lang, and Ryan Sherrard - three Amazon professionals - recently connected with Scott to discuss the benefits of running your Amazon business from spreadsheets. Their informative conversation touched on topics ranging from data analysis and inventory management to product optimization and understanding customer behavior. With their expertise in Amazon business growth strategies and knowledge sharing, this discussion provides Amazon sellers with invaluable insight on how to leverage spreadsheets and position themselves for success on Amazon.
Here's the coupon code for 50% off!
SAS50

11 Harsh Truths about selling on Amazon and how AI + SmartScout is going to change the game. Jan 03, 2023

AI + SmartScout is a powerful combo. I talk about that and how great and challenging the business of taking profit home from selling on Amazon.
SMARTPODCAST15 for 15% off!
http://www.smartscout.com

Episode 188: How To Get the Most Money for Old and Stale Products in Amazon FBA Jan 03, 2023

Join Scott as he chats with Daniel Boucher about how old prodcuts can become profitable.

Episode 187: Amazon Deal Strategies good enough for a $20m product Dec 27, 2022

Join Scott Klaidas Siuipys as they chat about all things Amazon Deal Strategies. Some may even land you as good as $20M in product!

Episode 186: Why Amazon Live is the most cost effective marketing strategy with Vincenzo Toscano Dec 20, 2022

Join Scott as he chats with Vincenzo Toscano about "Amazon Live". Amazon live is part of Amazon's suite of brand content solutions for helping you drive discovery and connect with shoppers. Scott and Vincenzo talk how this is the most cost effective amazon marketing strategy. Find out how!

Episode 185: Avoiding FBA limits with an alternative fulfillment network with Cahoot Dec 13, 2022

Manish from www.cahoot.ai explains a new a better alternative to Amazon FBA.

Episode 184: How Content Marketing can be a long play for growing your brand with Andrew Maff Dec 06, 2022

We talk with Andrew Maff of Blue Tuskr( https://www.bluetuskr.com/). Content Marketing is the sweat equity of Marketing. It doesn't pay immediately, but before you know it, you've amassed excellent motes.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

The Smartest Amazon Seller

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected