AM/PM Podcast

Latest Episodes:

#438 - Geek Out on Amazon PPC: Data-Driven Advertising Hacks with Mike Frekey Mar 13, 2025

Show notes

Geek out on Amazon PPC with Mike Frekey! Learn data-driven ad strategies, AI’s impact on advertising, and tips for optimizing campaigns to boost your Amazon sales. 🚀

Amazon advertising expert Mike Frekey takes center stage in this episode, sharing his wealth of experience from Amazon PPC agency industry leaders like IGG and Perch. His journey through the world of Amazon advertising for over 100 brands underscores the importance of data over creativity in crafting successful strategies. Mike details the collaborative efforts with data scientists at Perch to create robust advertising campaigns using sponsored products, brands, and display ads, all while emphasizing the crucial role of numbers in spotting growth opportunities and fine-tuning advertising efforts.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the meticulous process of auditing Amazon accounts to spotlight top-selling products and optimize ad spend across various types and placements. Mike breaks down the significance of understanding conversion rates and differentiating between brand and non-brand targets to maximize incremental sales potential. By utilizing brand analytics and search query performance data, he highlights how to effectively assess market positioning and address product issues that may impact performance more than the advertising strategies themselves.

Adding a forward-looking dimension, Mike explores the evolving landscape of Amazon's PPC offerings and the burgeoning role of AI in advertising. He shares his enthusiasm for Amazon Marketing Cloud audiences and budding avenues like sponsored TV, while candidly pointing out challenges such as audience targeting limitations and conversion tracking hurdles. Wrapping up, Mike imparts strategic wisdom on launching products on Amazon, from risk management to harnessing social proof, illustrating how to use Amazon's first-party data for long-term success. This episode promises a comprehensive look at mastering the art of Amazon advertising, all seasoned with Mike's unique insights and expertise.

In episode 438 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Mike discuss:

00:00 - Data Nerd's Amazon Advertising Strategies
02:39 - Amazon Marketing Strategies and Data Analysis
06:11 - Agency Age and Automation vs. Humans
09:03 - Analyzing Amazon Advertising Strategies
12:26 - Gender-Specific Product Line Analysis
16:33 - Amazon PPC Strategies and Attribution Challenges
18:40 - Amazon Bid Boosting Challenges
25:06 - Campaign Monitoring and Analysis Priorities
27:33 - Impact of AI on Amazon Advertising
29:15 - Future of AI in Amazon Advertising
31:41 - AI Transformation in Workforce
35:38 - Amazon Algorithm
39:31 - Amazon Advertising Launch Strategy Tips
41:59 - Product Reviews for Amazon Success
47:15 - Networking and Event Promotion on LinkedIn
48:30 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#437 - AI, KDP, & Amazon FBA: Shivali Patel on Winning in E-Commerce Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

Shivali Patel shares her journey from aspiring med student to e-commerce expert, plus FBA tips, AI insights, and a 7-day challenge to find winning products. Don't miss this episode!

What if you could transform your career from the traditional paths to the flexible world of digital entrepreneurship? Join us for a captivating conversation with Shivali Patel, who shares her unconventional journey from aspiring medical student to a thriving Amazon seller and brand evangelist for Helium 10. Discover how Shivali's pivot into the e-commerce space began with dropshipping and evolved into a passion for creating self-help content through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Shivali's story is a testament to the vast opportunities within the digital economy and the power of strategic career changes.

As Shivali recounts her fascinating transition from beauty queen to Helium 10 evangelist, we explore the dynamic realm of e-commerce software. Uncover the unique strengths of tools like Helium 10 that enhance the seller's experience, driven by Shivali’s expertise in marketing and communications. This episode is packed with personal anecdotes and highlights the competitive edge Helium 10 provides to sellers navigating the digital landscape. Shivali also shares practical strategies for Amazon sellers, including a seven-day challenge designed to find profitable products using Amazon FBA, while emphasizing the importance of perseverance and community support in overcoming initial hurdles.

We also venture into the world of networking and knowledge-building, where Shivali discusses the value of attending industry events and engaging with professional communities for growth. Learn about the role of AI tools in book publishing and the future of AI in e-commerce, offering insights into creating and selling products in a rapidly evolving market. With actionable advice and inspiring stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to thrive in the competitive world of Amazon selling and beyond.

In episode 437 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Shivali discuss:

02:12 - Interview on Content Creation Collaboration
07:55 - Entrepreneurial Journey
10:48 - From Beauty Queen to Helium 10 Evangelist
11:07 - Perspective Shift From User to Ambassador
19:30 - 7-Day Challenge for Amazon FBA Sellers
22:31 - KDP Metadata Training and Replays
27:20 - Building Relationships and Resources for Sellers
29:47 - Investing in Knowledge and Connections
31:05 - Mastermind Events and Networking ROI
35:44 - Exploring Opportunities With Amazon KDP
36:38 - Navigating KDP and Book Publishing
42:52 - Optimizing Book Cover Design for Conversions
45:56 - Future of AI and Amazon
51:17 - Shivali's Ultimate Life Goals
53:29 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#436 - The Math Behind PPC: Data-Driven Strategies for Amazon Success Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

Master Amazon PPC with Mansour Norouzi of Incrementum Digital! Discover data-driven ad strategies, AI insights, and expert tips to optimize your campaigns for growth.

Amazon advertising expert Mansour Norouzi, Director of Advertising at Incrementum Digital, shares his transformative journey from civil engineering in Iran to becoming a pivotal figure in the Amazon PPC space. Join us as Mansour unravels his unique experiences in Amazon PPC optimization strategies and his role at Incrementum Digital. He highlights the challenges of restricted U.S. travel and how these hurdles have shaped his career, emphasizing a strategic shift towards location independence and e-commerce.

We navigate the rapidly changing landscape of Amazon advertising, exploring how it has evolved to match, and sometimes surpass, the capabilities of giants like Google. Mansour dives into the advanced functionalities of the Amazon Marketing Cloud, a tool that grants advertisers an unprecedented level of customer interaction insights. This episode also addresses the transformative role of AI in marketing, balancing skepticism with the benefits of AI in streamlining tasks and enhancing client relations while underscoring the irreplaceable need for human strategic input.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intricacies of managing PPC campaigns, including common pitfalls and expert advice on optimizing budgets and campaign structures. Mansour candidly discusses the importance of maintaining a balanced organic and paid sales ratio, offering a roadmap for achieving sustainable growth. As a bonus, Mansour and Kevin also tease upcoming content from the Billion Dollar Seller Summit Iceland and an exciting future episode featuring Shivali Patel from Helium 10, ensuring our listeners stay ahead in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.

In episode 436 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Mansour discuss:

00:00 - Amazon PPC Strategies With Mansour
06:43 - Scaling Supplement Brands Through Advertising
09:46 - Marketing Passion Project
11:24 - Evolving Amazon Advertising Strategies
15:44 - Amazon Marketing Cloud Audience Customization
25:28 - Future Impact of AI in Amazon PPC
30:26 - Generative AI Tools for Video Production
33:04 - AI Improving Agency Selection Process
35:25 - Amazon Advertising and Client Management
37:06 - Client Growth Incentives and Compensation
40:23 - Amazon Advertising Services and Brand Management
43:15 - Amazon PPC Campaign Optimization Strategies
50:58 - Grouping Keywords by Volume and Intent
54:45 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

#435 - Revolutionizing E-Commerce Financing: Innovative Solutions for Amazon Sellers Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

Amazon fees, tariffs, and rising costs are squeezing cash flow. In this episode, we dive into funding options and smart financial strategies to keep your Amazon business growing strong.

What if there were a way to finance your Amazon business without falling into the traps of traditional loans and predatory cash advances? Our latest episode of the AM/PM podcast promises just that, with insights from our special guest, Nadav Gorlicki of CapEc, who has charted an incredible journey from IT to Amazon entrepreneurship. Nadav shares his firsthand experiences in navigating the financial challenges that Amazon sellers face today, especially as rising fees and costs make sustaining a business more difficult than ever. He reveals the strategic financial solutions that CapEc provides, which are designed to align perfectly with sellers' ROI and cash flow, offering a viable path for sustainable growth.

Starting an Amazon business is no small feat, especially if you're working with a limited budget. Managing cash flow effectively can mean the difference between success and failure. We discuss various strategies to overcome the long lead times before sales begin to pay off, and the critical decisions around funding options like loans versus equity investments. Nadav introduces alternative financing solutions that allow sellers to maintain inventory without the burden of personal guarantees or credit checks, thus preserving their ownership stakes. His insights are a game-changer for anyone looking to build a resilient and profitable e-commerce business.

But let’s not forget the bigger picture—while financial success is important, it shouldn’t overshadow life’s simple pleasures. In a thought-provoking segment, we reflect on the importance of balancing work with experiences that truly enrich our lives. From spending time with family to enjoying the moment, we encourage you to remember what truly matters beyond the balance sheets. Tune in to this enlightening episode with Nadav Gorlicki and uncover strategies that could transform your e-commerce journey while keeping life’s joys in perspective.

In episode 435 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Nadav discuss:

00:00 - The Challenge of E-Commerce Financing
07:42 - Rise of Specialized Companies in Selling
13:38 - Navigating Amazon Startup Financing
18:08 - Benefits of Partnership With Amazon Seller
19:00 - Sustainable Amazon Seller Financing Options
27:22 - Analyzing Product ROI for Business Success
32:26 - Effective E-Commerce Financing Strategies
36:08 - Financing New Product Launches
44:06 - Revolutionizing E-Commerce Financing Solutions
44:53 - Changing Amazon Industry Success Rates
50:34 - Understanding Payment Terms and ROI
53:04 - Finance Your Growth With CapEc
54:42 - Remembering Life Beyond Money
54:49 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#434 - The Creative PPC Revolution: Rethinking Amazon Ads with Chris Rawlings Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, get ready to unlock Amazon PPC insights with our expert guest. Discover creative ad strategies, advanced tactics, and future trends shaping e-commerce success.

Want to unleash the power of Amazon PPC while keeping your entrepreneurial spirit alive? Join us in an engaging conversation with Chris Rawlings, the mastermind behind Sophie Society. Chris shares his journey from a curious kid in a solar-powered home to a leading figure in e-commerce, blending fun with business success. Learn how the aggregator boom shifted the landscape, and explore Chris's unique strategies for navigating Amazon's complex advertising world with both expertise and humor.

Kevin and Chris also reflect on their unconventional paths to success, sharing anecdotes like the time Chris inadvertently carried a full-size sword at an industry event, breaking local laws. These stories highlight the value of independent thinking and creative problem-solving in entrepreneurship. From the challenges of scaling Juno Launch amidst changing review practices to the lessons learned from misaligned investor expectations, his experiences underscore the importance of resilience and adapting to adversity.

Finally, we unpack the exciting evolution of Amazon marketing, including the rise of AI and creative content. Chris discusses his dynamic five-day PPC event that transforms sellers into experts. They also venture into the future of Amazon search, predicting shifts towards intent-based, AI-driven strategies. Whether you're a seasoned seller or new to the game, gain insights on aligning products with market demand and leveraging creative ads to capture attention. This episode promises a wealth of knowledge for anyone navigating the ever-evolving world of e-commerce.

In episode 434 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Chris discuss:

00:00 - Amazon PPC and Business Fun
02:21 - E-Commerce Industry Success and Failure
07:07 - Unconventional Upbringing Shapes Entrepreneurial Journey
10:09 - Impact of Isolation on Mindset
14:50 - Lessons Learned From Entrepreneurial Failure
21:28 - Authenticity in Teaching and Testing
26:01 - Navigating the Amazon Sales Market
27:07 - Advanced Amazon PPC Five-Day Challenge
32:01 - Leverage Creative for Amazon Success
32:23 - Effectiveness of TV Ads for Brands
36:00 - Effective Marketing Strategy for Long-Term Success
36:58 - Future of Amazon Search and AI
44:29 - PPC Challenge Sophie Society

#433 - The Money Game: How to Secure Financing Without Sinking Your Amazon Business with Russell Walraven Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we’re going to talk about everything financing, some of the pros and cons of taking actual lending or advances for your business, and everything in between.

What if securing financing for your e-commerce business didn't mean sacrificing control or facing exorbitant interest rates? Russell Walraven from 8Fig joins us to unpack financing solutions that respect your business's autonomy and potential. We explore the tailored working capital options 8Fig offers to online sellers on major platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and Walmart. Russell also shares 8Fig's leap into SaaS, crafted to fuel seller growth and success, while addressing the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.

Navigating the murky waters of Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs) can be daunting, but we're here to shed light on this alternative financing avenue. Through personal anecdotes, we unravel the differences between MCAs and traditional loans, highlighting the risks and aggressive collection tactics that can ensue in cases of default. Discover the flexibility of new MCA products designed specifically for Amazon and e-commerce sellers, alongside insights on securing subsequent funding without fully paying down existing amounts.

Choosing between lending and equity financing is a pivotal decision for any entrepreneur, and we dissect this complex dynamic to help you make informed choices. Learn about the advantages of retaining full business ownership through loans with companies like 8Fig, versus the prolonged involvement of equity investors. We also delve into the process of pre-qualifying for loans without impacting your credit score and the importance of building a financial partnership founded on trust and understanding of e-commerce dynamics. Whether you're in the throes of financial challenges or planning ahead, this episode equips you with practical advice to secure fair and effective funding for your online business.

In episode 433 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Russell discuss:

00:00 - Financing Options for E-Commerce Sellers
07:24 - Flexible E-Commerce Supply Chain Solutions
10:16 - Alternative Financing Options for E-Commerce
16:11 - Marketplace Payment Enforcement Strategies
20:57 - Lending vs. Equity in Business Ownership
22:31 - Lenders and Stacking Loans Discussion
25:51 - E-Commerce Seller Funding Process
28:38 - Managing Seller Sizes and Deal Sizes
34:08 - No Origination Fees for Financing
35:34 - Navigating E-Commerce Financing Options
39:57 - E-Commerce Focus in Business Research

#432 - Amazon Traffic Hacks: How Influencers & Big Blogs Drive Millions with Richie Carreon Jan 30, 2025

Show notes

Unlock massive traffic with affiliate marketing! In this episode, our guest reveals how to connect with influencers, land top blog features & drive millions in sales for your Amazon business.

Richie Carreon from Levanta graces our latest episode to unpack the fast-paced world of affiliate marketing, sharing his extensive expertise in ad tech and marketing technology. As we weave through this insightful conversation, Richie lays out how platforms like Levanta are bridging the gap between e-commerce sellers and influencers, creators, and major publications. Discover the transformative power of automating these connections to supercharge traffic and revenue, particularly during high-stakes sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

We also dive into the magic of Amazon's affiliate traffic, revealing tricks to boost your product's organic search rankings and maximize your return on ad spend (ROAS). Uncover the untapped potential of passing along Amazon's brand referral bonus to entice creators and elevate your offers in a crowded marketplace. Whether you’re a seller aiming to streamline administrative burdens or a creator seeking the perfect product fit, Richie shares how to effectively navigate this dual-sided marketplace of 7,000+ vetted influencers.

Rounding off our episode, we highlight the human element in affiliate marketing and podcasting — building relationships that go beyond mere transactions. By nurturing genuine connections with podcast hosts and influencers, you can foster trust and drive organic promotion. Richie emphasizes the critical role of appreciation in these partnerships amid rising competition and skepticism toward traditional advertising. Join us for a transformative discussion that underscores the strategic use of affiliates and the immense power of relationships in today's marketing landscape.

In episode 432 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Richie discuss:

00:00 - Affiliate Marketing Strategies With Richie Carreon
03:52 - Affiliate Marketing Success Stories
08:24 - Leveraging Amazon Affiliate Benefits
15:07 - Innovative Affiliate Marketing Strategies
18:51 - Affiliate Marketing and Advertising Strategies
20:45 - Newsletter Advertising With Beehive Platform
22:53 - Maximizing Ad Inventory Sales
26:24 - The Power of Affiliate Marketing
30:48 - Building Relationships for Affiliate Success
32:16 - Building Business Relationships Through Sponsorship
35:03 - Amazon Sellers Membership Pricing and Expansion
39:02 - Competition for High Base Rate
42:38 - Exploring Diversification in E-Commerce
47:33 - Kevin King’s Words of Wisdom

#431 - Navigating the Future of E-commerce Advertising with Navah Hopkins: Uniting SEO, PPC, and AI Jan 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we explore cutting-edge e-commerce advertising. Learn strategies to maximize reach on multiple platforms like Amazon ads, Google ads, and more.

Unlock the secrets of the digital advertising realm with us as we explore the journey of Navah Hopkins, a seasoned e-commerce advertising expert. Discover how Navah transitioned from teaching dreams to shaping the future of SEO and PPC marketing. With her experience in navigating the ever-changing digital landscape since 2008, you'll gain insights into the ethical dilemmas and strategic shifts that led her to embrace PPC. This episode promises a deep dive into the integration of PPC with SEO and the transformative role of AI in this burgeoning $91 billion industry.

Our conversation spans the evolution of advertising platforms, likening modern problem-solving to the once-dominant yellow pages. Navah shares how being present in the digital marketing space can secure a brand's status as a default consumer choice, similar to Amazon's rise to prominence. We also highlight the complexities of combining PPC and SEO strategies, the hidden challenges in automatic platform settings, and the value of accurate data interpretation on platforms like Google, Facebook, and Amazon. Nava sheds light on common advertising mistakes and offers practical advice on avoiding pitfalls that can mislead decision-making.

As we look towards the future, Navah shares her vision for the untapped potential of video advertising, particularly on platforms like Amazon where low competition offers a cost-effective edge. From influencer marketing to TikTok's global reach, we explore innovative strategies that maximize ad performance and attribution. Join us in uncovering how Navah Hopkins is leading the charge in ethical and innovative digital marketing, paving the way for what lies ahead in this dynamic industry.

In episode 431 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Navah discuss:

00:00 - AI Impact on SEO and Advertising
11:18 - AI's Impact on Branding and Consumers
14:11 - Navigating Different Online Advertising Platforms
14:59 - Evolution From Unknown to Default
22:01 - Google Ads Reporting Trustworthiness
23:00 - Avoiding Common Advertising Pitfalls
25:40 - Data Analysis for Marketing Decisions
31:23 - Discussion on Automated Tools and AI
32:34 - Vendor Selection for E-Commerce Sellers
35:10 - Payment Models in Marketing Strategies
38:22 - The Future of Video Advertising
42:58 - Amazon Prime's Transactional Ad Advantage
45:25 - Maximizing Google Ads Performance and Attribution
48:21 - Call Tracking and Attribution in Marketing
53:39 - Connecting With Nava Hopkins on Optimization
55:16 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#430 - Packaging That Sells: How to Triple Your Product Price with Strategic Design Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we cover creative packaging, premium pricing, sustainability, and unboxing strategies to boost consumer perception and e-commerce success.

Transform your brand's presence with the power of packaging! Join Kitty Lai, a seasoned expert in design and branding, as she shares her journey from a young worker in a packaging factory to designing for iconic brands like Ted Baker and Cath Kidston. Discover how effective packaging can elevate your product, enhance brand recognition, and even lead to viral success. Kitty unpacks the secrets behind choosing the right packaging materials and designs that captivate customers and communicate value.

Imagine turning a simple kitchen knife, initially priced at $30, into a premium product that sells for $129 just by changing its packaging. Kevin King and Kitty Lai explains how strategic design changes can justify higher prices and improve product perception. Dive into the world of e-commerce and learn how market research can uncover customer willingness to pay more for perceived value. Kitty emphasizes sustainability, nudging brands towards recyclable and reusable options that resonate with today’s environmentally-conscious consumers.

For those looking to expand from e-commerce to retail, Kitty offers invaluable insights into selecting and sourcing packaging that aligns with your brand's identity and customer expectations. She discusses the art of the unboxing experience, where simplicity and thoughtful design can transform customer satisfaction into loyalty. Whether you're an Amazon seller on a budget or a growing brand, Kitty's guidance on maintaining design consistency and leveraging creative packaging will inspire you to surprise and delight your customers.

In episode 430 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Kitty discuss:

00:00 - The Importance of Packaging for Branding
03:23 - Career Path in Design Industry
06:02 - Evolution of Design Trends
11:31 - The Impact of Packaging Design
14:11 - Importance of Branding and Packaging
22:19 - Packaging Strategies for Amazon Businesses
27:08 - The Value of Presentation in Marketing
29:48 - Enhancing Customer Experience Through Packaging
31:19 - Packaging Design and User Experience Importance
34:01 - The Power of Packaging Extras
37:39 - Creative Packaging Solutions for Clients
39:57 - Packaging Design and Brand Consistency
45:29 - Importance of Brand Consistency
47:07 - Impacts of Creative Packaging Design
49:39 - Exploring Creativity in Brand Marketing
50:57 - Maximizing Packaging Impact
51:45 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

#429 - How to Outrank Competitors on Amazon with Alina Vlaic Jan 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, get expert tips on ranking page one on Amazon, from keyword strategies and listing optimization to leveraging AI and actionable insights to boost your sales.

Unlock the secrets to achieving the coveted page one ranking on Amazon as we sit down with Alina Vlaic from AZRank. You'll learn to master the nuances of constructing effective listings and targeting the right keywords to enhance your visibility and sales. Alina shares stories from her journey in the e-commerce world, highlighting the dynamic Romanian e-commerce community and how it’s being driven forward by a strong IT and programming culture.

We trace the evolution of Amazon's ranking strategies, from the early days of product giveaways for reviews to today's focus on relevance and customer engagement. Discover how sellers have adapted to changes in Amazon's algorithm and hear about the tactics that continue to thrive. Alina and her team at AZ Rank, in collaboration with Helium 10, have pioneered methods like the CPR formula to help sellers navigate these challenges. Their insights shed light on crafting strategies that keep your products relevant in the ever-changing Amazon landscape.

Finally, we delve into the science of reverse engineering Amazon's AI, Rufus, to give your listings the competitive edge they need. Alina discusses the growing importance of rich media content like images, videos, and user-generated content, and how these elements can significantly amplify your product's appeal. Whether you're launching a new product or refining an existing one, learn how to harness tools like Helium 10 and Amazon's Product Opportunity Explorer to strategically position your brand for success.

In episode 429 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Alina discuss:

00:00 - Strategies for Amazon Page One Ranking
04:40 - Entrepreneurial Journey in E-Commerce
15:47 - Evolving Strategies for Amazon Ranking
17:05 - Amazon Bans Activity, Goes Underground
19:41 - Developing Formula for Amazon Ranking
22:35 - Crucial Strategies for Amazon Ranking
27:57 - Optimizing Flat Files for Amazon Success
29:53 - Optimizing Amazon Launch Strategy and Ranking
31:22 - Product Testing and Data Collection Techniques
37:04 - Product Success Maintenance Planning Strategy
40:07 - Reversing Amazon AI for Ranking Success
44:42 - Amazon Listing Optimization Through UGCs
48:12 - Trends in Product Innovation
50:14 - Kevin King’s Words of Wisdom

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