Global competition is killing Western sellers. This episode’s guest shares how to survive tariffs, copycats, and shifting supply chains in this must-hear e-commerce deep dive.

E-commerce enthusiasts and entrepreneurs, you're in for a treat as we sit down with Bernie Thompson, a pioneering eight-figure Amazon seller and former software engineer with industry giants like IBM and Microsoft. Bernie charts a thrilling journey from his tech roots to establishing a successful electronics company in the early days of Amazon's marketplace. Our conversation unveils the seismic shifts in the e-commerce landscape, where timing, innovation, and an adaptable mindset are key to thriving amid intense global competition.

We're not shying away from the hard-hitting challenges Western sellers face, particularly in the electronics sector. Bernie opens up about navigating the choppy waters of tariffs and fierce competition from aggressive Chinese brands. Misleading product claims and the difficulty of enforcing regulations in this digital age add another layer of complexity. Through it all, Bernie underscores the vital role of strategic planning and intellectual property protection as pillars for sustaining growth and innovation.

As we wrap up, we cast an eye on the future, spotlighting the transformative power of AI in product development and global business competitiveness. From scaling operations with AI-driven tools to the need for systemic changes in American manufacturing, our discussion highlights the strategic moves necessary to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving global market. Join us for an episode brimming with insights, whether you're an industry veteran or a curious newcomer eager to understand the forces reshaping e-commerce and manufacturing today.

In episode 455 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Bernie discuss:

• 00:00 - E-Commerce Innovations With Bernie Thompson
• 03:06 - Fortunate Timing for Amazon Seller
• 08:59 - Navigating Tariff Challenges in the Electronics Category
• 11:35 - Rise of Chinese Brands in Electronics
• 20:32 - Challenges of Western Electronics Industry
• 25:31 - Challenges in Opening Chip Plant
• 26:57 - Strategies for American Manufacturing Competitiveness
• 31:08 - Navigating Global Electronics Manufacturing
• 32:04 - Technological Innovations and Global Competition
• 36:29 - Intellectual Property and Sourcing Strategy
• 43:56 - Manufacturing Support Discrepancy Between Countries
• 47:01 - Labor and Automation in China
• 52:20 - Impact of AI on Product Development
• 53:20 - Cultural and Mental Shifts in Business
• 58:00 - The Power of AI in Business
• 1:02:26 - Strategic Implementation of AI in Business

Learn how to defend your Amazon brand from overseas knockoffs. Today’s guest shares real IP battles, counterfeiting tactics, and strategies for protecting your e-commerce success.

Can your Amazon brand survive the onslaught of 153 knockoffs? Hear from Chris Keef, our expert guest, as he unravels the harrowing tale of an Amazon seller who faced this exact nightmare and navigated the turbulent waters of account suspension despite a fortress of patents and trademarks. Chris brings a wealth of knowledge from his dual experiences in the corporate and e-commerce worlds, offering listeners a roadmap for maintaining a competitive edge through robust intellectual property strategies and unique product offerings."

In a world where unauthorized sellers and 'hijackers' lurk around every corner of online marketplaces, protecting your Amazon listing becomes a high-stakes game. We dive into the systemic issues within online marketplaces, shedding light on the stark contrast between e-commerce and traditional retail environments. Through gripping case studies, Chris and Kevin expose how low barriers to entry often lead to shortcuts and unethical practices, and how sellers can strategically plan and fortify their defenses with tools like Amazon's brand registry and the Apex program.

Discover strategic approaches for combating false advertising and counterfeit threats while learning how to leverage brand protection services like AMZ Watchdog. Not only do we emphasize the importance of resilience and assertiveness in safeguarding your brand, but we also explore innovative strategies for thriving in the e-commerce landscape. From creating a digital moat around your products to utilizing emerging platforms like TikTok for brand growth, this episode is packed with insights to empower you against unfair practices and position your brand for success.

In episode 454 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Chris discuss:

• 00:00 - Protecting Your Amazon Listing Strategies
• 00:04 - Rising Competition in Online Sales
• 06:42 - Concerns About Data Security
• 13:32 - Navigating IP Protection in Global E-Commerce
• 16:54 - Intellectual Property Rights Across Borders
• 18:55 - Combatting False Advertising in E-Commerce
• 20:11 - Retail vs E-Commerce Growth Differences
• 30:12 - Strategic Approaches to IP Protection
• 40:32 - Negotiating for Release of Product
• 41:33 - Navigating Brand Protection in E-Commerce
• 45:11 - Navigating E-Commerce Challenges and Innovations
• 47:15 - Competitive Strategies in Global Business
• 52:48 - Utilizing TikTok for Brand Success
• 53:59 - Protecting Brands in E-Commerce
• 59:13 - Supporting Amazon Sellers Through AMZ Watchdog
• 1:00:40 - Kevin's Words of Wisdom

Social commerce is booming. Learn how brands use TikTok Shop, influencer campaigns, and spark ads to drive engagement and how it boosts your Amazon sales.

Can TikTok Shop really be the ultimate game-changer for brands aiming to make millions together with Amazon? Join us as we welcome Sohun Sanka, who brings firsthand experience from TikTok Shop's inception in the US, to uncover the secrets behind this booming social commerce platform. From algorithms to government scrutiny, we dissect what makes TikTok a revolutionary tool for brand success and how it stands apart from traditional platforms like Amazon and Shopify.

Discover how TikTok Shop's seamless in-app purchasing is setting new standards in e-commerce, offering brands lower CPMs and remarkable attribution capabilities. We take you through the maze of TikTok's advertising landscape, highlighting innovative ad types like Spark ads and live shopping ads that are transforming consumer engagement. Learn the strategic differences between organic content and paid ads, and why TikTok's approach to integrating shopping links directly into videos can potentially skyrocket your brand's conversions and awareness.

Engaging influencers effectively on TikTok is more than just a trend; it's a necessity. We explore the evolving landscape of influencer marketing with a focus on performance-based agreements and gamification. Hear about the transition from flat fee models to dynamic commission structures, and how brands are fostering communities of brand ambassadors to drive unmatched success. Dive into the intricacies of TikTok's strict content guidelines and discover how clear content blueprints can elevate your affiliate program. With Sohun's insights, unlock the potential to optimize your brand's impact on TikTok Shop like never before.

In episode 453 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Sohun discuss:

• 00:00 - TikTok Shop Strategy and Success
• 02:32 - Early Days of TikTok Shop
• 10:46 - The Power of Social Commerce
• 13:38 - TikTok Shop Advertising Strategy Insights
• 18:54 - Boosting Amazon Sales Through TikTok
• 19:32 - Effective Influencer Acquisition Strategies
• 24:45 - Creator Acquisition Lever Through Contests
• 27:22 - Influencer Retainer Strategies & Success
• 29:06 - Influencer Ambassador Program Success Strategies
• 34:28 - Strategic Approach to TikTok Marketing
• 36:41 - TikTok Shop Rules and Strategies
• 40:10 - Impact of Brand Affiliate Programs

One of the fastest ways to boost your Amazon sales? Fix your damn listings. Our guest today drops $100K image hacks, avatar secrets, and AI tips you can use today.

What if you could optimize your Amazon listings to boost sales without spending more on PPC or launching new products? Join us as we explore this possibility with Kamaljit Singh from AMZ One Step. Kamal, a seasoned expert in Amazon listing optimization, shares his wealth of knowledge on enhancing your listings, improving click-through rates, and the critical role of quality product imagery. Gain insights into the future of Amazon listings and discover how sellers can adapt to the ever-changing e-commerce landscape.

Kamal's journey from India to Canada is a tale of evolution, from selling streaming boxes to South Asian communities to establishing a thriving Amazon agency. We unravel his transition from telecommunications to e-commerce, highlighting the strategic pivot to private labeling and teaching the art of Amazon selling. The conversation further explores the vital importance of staying active in the marketplace, the implementation of AI and automation, and the power of strategic partnerships in managing a global team.

As AI continues to reshape e-commerce, we dive into its transformative impact on product development, market analysis, and operational efficiency. Kamal discusses how AI tools like Amazon Recognition and GenSparkAI revolutionize the industry, reducing time to market and enhancing strategic insights. We also look ahead to the future of Amazon listing customization, where personalized experiences and AI-driven strategies promise to redefine digital marketing. Through these compelling discussions, we emphasize the need for sellers to invest in quality marketing and adapt to the evolving landscape to remain competitive.

In episode 452 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Kamaljit discuss:

• 00:05 - Optimizing Amazon Listings for Higher CTR
• 07:12 - From Streaming Boxes to Amazon Agency
• 11:53 - Global Growth of Creative Amazon Services
• 13:45 - The Importance of Quality Product Imagery
• 18:27 - Building Customer Avatars for Sellers
• 22:10 - Creating Customer-Centric Product Images
• 25:40 - Positioning and Differentiating Avatar Images
• 26:39 - Positioning Tests and Customer Avatars
• 30:02 - Evolving Amazon Listing Strategies With AI
• 31:37 - Importance of AI in Online Listings
• 35:29 - Adjusting Images for AI Recognition
• 37:36 - AI Impact on E-Commerce Evolution
• 38:21 - Impact of AI on E-Commerce Industry
• 46:30 - Maximizing Amazon Listing Creatives With AI
• 42:26 - Future of Amazon Listing Customization
• 49:12 - Transforming Ads With Creative Solutions
• 57:46 - E-Commerce Strategies and Tips Newsletter

Sourcing expert Isaac Hetzroni, aka @thesourcingguy, shares tips on China, AI, factory tours, and finding top suppliers. Essential insights for smarter e-commerce strategies.

Join us as we explore the dynamic world of sourcing with Isaac Hetzroni, aka @thesourcingguy, a rising influencer known for his insightful content on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Isaac, though lesser-known in the Amazon space, shares his extensive experience in manufacturing, having grown up in the industry with his family's apparel and electronics factories. He provides valuable insights on whether businesses should look beyond China for sourcing, and shares practical tips on understanding product costs and minimizing risks. Isaac's engaging social media presence brings these topics to life, making sourcing strategies both informative and entertaining.

We'll also examine the complexities and misconceptions surrounding sourcing from China, where advanced infrastructure and a skilled workforce have cemented its status as a manufacturing powerhouse. Despite pushes for diversification, replicating China's efficiency in other countries presents significant challenges. Apparel manufacturing emerges as a more adaptable sector for relocation, yet the transition is fraught with logistical hurdles. The discussion extends to global manufacturing trends and China's impact on the U.S. market, including the rise of Factory to Consumer strategies and the role of AI in overcoming language barriers, all of which are reshaping global trade relationships.

In this episode, we emphasize the importance of building strong business relationships, especially when dealing with Chinese suppliers. Personal connections often intertwine with professional dealings, and trade shows play a crucial role in maintaining these relationships. We explore strategies for finding the best suppliers beyond platforms like Alibaba, using tools such as Import Yeti and trade shows to discover high-quality factories. Additionally, we highlight the importance of quality control and the advantages of diversifying supply chains to new regions. Tune in to gain insights into effective sourcing strategies, quality control, and the evolving landscape of global manufacturing.

In episode 451 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Isaac discuss:

• 00:00 - Expert Sourcing Strategies With Isaac Hetzroni
• 03:31 - Factory Tours & Sourcing Tips
• 08:14 - Misconceptions About Sourcing in China
• 17:42 - Global Manufacturing and Brain Drain
• 09:03 - The Challenges of Sourcing in China
• 17:42 - Global Manufacturing Trends and China Sourcing
• 22:02 - Sourcing Tips for Manufacturers
• 28:08 - Purchasing in China
• 28:38 - Building Strong Business Relationships in China
• 33:41 - Sourcing the Best Suppliers Without Alibaba
• 34:34 - Strategies for Finding the Best Suppliers
• 37:49 - Creative Freedom in Factory Filming
• 39:25 - Effective Overseas Manufacturing Quality Control
• 43:45 - Lean QC Solutions in Production
• 46:23 - Advantages of Diversifying Supply Chains
• 51:32 - Negotiating Production Priorities With Factories
• 54:13 - Advanced AI for Factory Sourcing
• 58:00 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

From launching rockets to scaling 8-figure brands, our guest shares AI hacks, PPC wins, & the secret tactic he learned in Helium 10 Elite that made him millions on Amazon.

Join us for an exciting conversation with Jerry Vida, an 8-figure Amazon seller with 17 years of e-commerce experience and a rocket-building hobby on the side. He shares his remarkable journey of navigating the Amazon landscape and achieving substantial sales success. Jerry opens up about his transition from struggling with PPC agencies to founding his own successful PPC agency. He recounts a pivotal moment from a Helium 10 Elite hack that helped him optimize lightning deals scheduling and significantly boost sales. Together, we reflect on the power of actionable insights, the role of AI in business, and the value of staying informed through curated content like newsletters.

As we explore the future of e-commerce, we discuss the transformative impact of AI technology on the industry. From reducing the need for large teams to enabling data-driven decision-making, AI is reshaping the way we analyze products, develop customer profiles, and create targeted marketing content. Listen in as we examine the shift from traditional keyword-based systems to intent-based models that better understand customer behavior and preferences. By leveraging AI and real-time data, we can craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse buyer personas and ultimately enhance branding and marketing strategies.

Finally, we tackle the intricacies of maximizing profitability on Amazon, emphasizing a holistic approach that considers all aspects of the Amazon ecosystem. We touch on the debate between flat fees and profit-sharing models in agency partnerships and the importance of selecting high-quality clients. Additionally, we discuss strategies for leveraging Amazon as a powerful tool for customer acquisition, using product inserts and targeted marketing sequences to build a loyal customer base. Throughout this episode, Jerry and Kevin share insights from their own experiences and highlight opportunities for elevating e-commerce ventures to new heights.

In episode 450 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jerry discuss:

• 00:00 - E-Commerce Expert Discusses Amazon Success
• 02:06 - Lightning Deal Hack Success Story
• 04:21 - Benefits of Industry-Focused Newsletters
• 09:08 - AI Technology in E-Commerce Growth
• 10:41 - Engineers Excel in E-Commerce Sales
• 17:52 - Maximizing Profitability Through AI Technology
• 20:52 - Switching From Agencies to Internal PPC
• 25:15 - Maximizing Profitability With Amazon Strategies
• 28:13 - Maximizing Profitability Through Amazon Optimization
• 31:54 - Future of E-Commerce
• 37:38 - Optimizing Product Listings for Multiple Avatars
• 44:02 - Leveraging Amazon for Customer Acquisition
• 47:39 - Rocket Science and E-Commerce Integration
• 48:12 - Description of Visuals on YouTube
• 53:14 - Rocket Launch Safety and Precautions
• 55:33 - Unlocking Success in E-Commerce

Learn the global expansion blueprint from an 8-figure Amazon seller! Overcome tariffs, streamline logistics, earn miles, and boost Amazon listings with AI insights and smart strategies.

Antonio Bindi, an accomplished eight-figure Amazon seller from Brazil, joins us to share his remarkable journey from dentistry to the e-commerce world. Antonio has become a success story by expanding his business in the US and Europe, leveraging the exciting and sometimes challenging opportunities that come with global expansion. His insights reveal how navigating tariffs, managing logistics, and optimizing inventory can open doors to new horizons and even world travel, painting a captivating picture of what it means to thrive in the e-commerce industry.

Our conversation takes a closer look at the complexities of international e-commerce, with Brazil playing a central role. We discuss the challenges sellers face, such as the intricate Brazilian tax system and high tariffs, and how these hurdles impact foreign companies trying to enter the market. We also compare Amazon's efforts with MercadoLibre's dominance in Latin America, shedding light on the unique e-commerce landscape in the region. Antonio's experiences bring to life the dynamic nature of the market and the strategic moves necessary for success, regardless of location.

The episode further explores the transformative power of AI in enhancing product listings on Amazon. By shifting from traditional keyword-driven strategies to intent-based searches, AI is revolutionizing how products are ranked and seen by customers. We discuss the importance of optimizing product imagery and tailoring listings to specific contexts, such as beach gear in its natural setting. These insights into product visibility and conversion strategies provide valuable takeaways for sellers looking to enhance their e-commerce toolkit. Antonio’s story and expertise offer a wealth of knowledge for seasoned sellers and those just embarking on this exciting journey.

In episode 449 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Antonio discuss:

• 00:00 - Exploring Global E-Commerce Opportunities With Antonio Bindi
• 02:41 - Theft in Rio Carnival Excitement
• 14:49 - Innovative Event Planning and AI Exploration
• 16:17 - Maximizing Miles With American Express
• 23:11 - Maximizing Travel Rewards and Mile Transfers
• 26:45 - Navigating Tariff Impacts in Canada
• 27:22 - Reviewing Global Inventory Strategy and Operations
• 31:09 - International Market Expansion Strategy
• 35:20 - E-Commerce Trends and Strategies Discussion
• 36:35 - E-Commerce Competition in Brazil
• 46:45 - Optimizing Product Listings for Amazon with AI
• 47:27 - Shifting Towards Intent-Based Analysis
• 53:13 - Exploring Business Pricing Strategy for Resellers
• 1:00:01 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

In this episode, our guest explores AI’s impact on e-commerce, from voice search to prompt engineering, revealing strategies to future-proof your Amazon and online retail success.

Andrew Bell, a thought leader in AI and e-commerce, takes us on his remarkable journey from studying ancient Greek and preaching to becoming a leading voice in the intersection of AI and online retail. He shares personal stories, including the influence of his late grandfather, a top contract negotiator, and his wife's inspiring story of being adopted from Ethiopia and launching a business that supports her orphanage. Andrew's insights into the e-commerce world reveal his strategic role in the growth of brands like Touch of Class on Amazon and his tenure as the Amazon lead for the National Fire Protection Association, where he champions the representation of vital safety standards.

Explore the evolving landscape of AI in e-commerce, where image generation and large language models redefine user experience. Andrew shares success stories stemming from industry networking, illustrating how connections at conferences can lead to collaborations featured in prestigious outlets like Forbes. With an eye on the future, Andrew and I discuss emerging trends, such as the shift towards remote work and the decline of traditional keyword optimization. The conversation unveils new strategies like Omni Search Optimization and the rise of voice search, underlining the transformative role of AI in shaping the future of search and branding.

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of AI-assisted tasks, where prompt engineering and multimodal strategies are revolutionizing human capabilities. Andrew emphasizes AI's potential to enhance rather than replace human skills, allowing for greater creativity and specialization. The discussion highlights innovative uses of AI, such as personalized recommendations and problem-solving via personality type consultations. By mastering AI technologies, businesses can optimize operations and scale efficiency, turning AI into a pivotal tool for growth and creativity in the digital age.

In episode 448 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Andrew discuss:

• 00:00 - AI in E-Commerce With Andrew Bell
• 05:01 - Learning Amazon Selling With Freedom Ticket
• 09:21 - Tech Innovations Discussed in Conversation
• 11:44 - Business Transition to Amazon Lead Role
• 18:08 - Remote Work Career Shift and Creativity
• 18:23 - Emerging Trends in E-Commerce Optimization
• 22:01 - Omni Search Optimization Paradigm
• 28:02 - Answer vs Generative Engine Optimization
• 31:07 - Voice Search in E-Commerce Future
• 35:40 - Voice Search and Productivity Implications
• 36:01 - Optimizing AI Prompting Strategies
• 43:59 - Role of Agents in E-Commerce
• 44:48 - Augmenting Skills With AI Technology
• 48:07 - Personalized Knee Brace Recommendations Using AI
• 51:55 - Debates on AI Adoption in E-commerce Businesses
• 57:16 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom