#428 - Kickstart Your 2025 with Amazon Strategies, PickFu Insights, and Social Media Tactics Featuring John Aspinall

Kick off the New Year with us as we sit down with John Aspinall, a leading influencer in the Amazon space and brand evangelist for PickFu. Together, we navigate the evolving dynamics of social media and explore strategies for effectively leveraging platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn. John shares his insights on using PickFu to test images and pricing, while addressing common misconceptions about Amazon as a source of passive income. We reflect on the shift from get-rich-quick schemes to more sustainable business models, alongside the aspirations of the younger generation, who are increasingly drawn to becoming influencers and creators in today's digital economy.   In a captivating discussion, we contemplate the potential acquisition of TikTok, with Amazon rumored as a possible buyer, and consider the implications of such a purchase without TikTok's unique algorithm. We trace TikTok's evolution from its Musical.ly origins to a powerhouse of creative content that rivals other social platforms. By examining the rise and fall of creative platforms like Vine, we offer insights into the future of content creation and the potential regulatory challenges that may arise for TikTok. Join us as we weigh the possibilities and potential outcomes for TikTok's future.   As we continue our exploration of social media strategies, we get into the nuances of optimizing content across various platforms. We discuss the effectiveness of Instagram Reels, Snapchat's transformation, and the challenges of maintaining a professional presence on Facebook. With John Aspinall, we explore the art of LinkedIn engagement, emphasizing authenticity and the risks of automation. Finally, we examine how tools like the Helium 10 Audience tool powered by PickFu enhance consumer research and product presentation strategies on Amazon, offering a comprehensive look at how brands can better understand customer behavior and optimize their social media presence. In episode 428 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and John discuss: 00:00 - Social Media Influencer Dynamics and Trends 06:18 - Influencers Impact in China and U.S 11:18 - The Future of TikTok Algorithm 13:17 - Evolution of Short Video Platforms 14:37 - Social Media Platform Dynamics and Strategies 24:20 - Maximizing Visibility Through Impressions 26:05 - LinkedIn Strategy for Brand Growth 30:49 - Optimizing Polling Strategies With PickFu 34:53 - Proper Targeting for Marketing Success 41:10 - Understanding Customer Behavior Through Split Testing 41:23 - Pricing Strategy Experiment Results 45:42 - Product Presentation Strategies for Amazon Success 46:43 - Packaging Strategies for Amazon Success 49:31 - Importance of Clickable Hero Image 54:41 - Maximizing ROI With Market Research 55:56 - Newsletter Strategy and Dream 100 58:28 - The Mystery of Newsletter Selection  1:00:47 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

In this episode, an expert in TikTok marketing shares insights on the platform’s future, 3 potential scenarios, and strategies to help Amazon sellers adapt and succeed in a changing landscape.   Curious how TikTok's trajectory might change the game for Amazon sellers? Uncover the possibilities with our guest, TikTok expert Rafay MH of Theuptik.com as we explore three potential futures for this ever-evolving platform. Discover how your business can stay ahead whether TikTok continues as is, faces significant transformations, or even undergoes delays. As Rafay shares his personal journey from Australia to Dubai, he also sheds light on the unique opportunities that come with adapting to change in the digital marketing world.   What's driving TikTok's success, and how can it work for you? Rafay and Kevin break down the platform's innovative algorithm, which levels the playing field for content creators big and small. We also dive into TikTok's raw content style that sets it apart from the polished perfection of other social media platforms, and how it has become a powerhouse for discovering and shopping. From its global reach, notably in Indonesia, to the complex interactions between tech leaders and former President Trump, this episode uncovers the broader implications for privacy and potential ownership changes.   Engage with TikTok creators to boost your brand's visibility and sales. Learn which strategies best support creators and strengthen collaborations by offering meaningful incentives and training. We discuss innovative marketing tactics using TikTok as a top-of-funnel awareness tool, emphasizing the importance of creative campaigns and a holistic approach to long-term success. Whether it involves running flash sales or launching groundbreaking campaigns, let this episode be your blueprint for conquering the future of digital marketing with TikTok at the helm. In episode 427 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Rafay discuss: 00:00 - Exploring TikTok's Future with an Expert Guest 07:13 - Amazon-TikTok Marketing Strategy Success 10:25 - TikTok's Unique Algorithm and Future 11:31 - Impact of TikTok on Social Media 17:58 - Impact of TikTok on Consumer Behavior 20:26 - Smartphone Tracking and Marketing Strategies 23:38 - The Effect of TikTok on Amazon Sellers 24:47 - Strategies for Working With TikTok Creators 31:51 - TikTok Affiliate Marketing Strategies 33:33 - Boosting Sales Through TikTok Strategies 35:49 - Influencer Marketing for Product Launches 41:53 - Strategies for TikTok Content and Sales 42:58 - Marketing Strategy for TikTok Sales 45:21 - Brand Content Strategy on Social Media 48:54 - Content Strategy for Brand Engagement 51:54 - Season's Greeting from Kevin King

Discover how today’s guest pivoted from tech to e-commerce, overcame high clothing return rates, tackled tariffs, and thrived on Amazon. Insightful tips for low-margin industries and global living! What if you could transform your career from tech to e-commerce and redefine the meaning of freedom income? Discover the inspiring story of Shan Shan Fu, a former tech professional who found her calling in online retail. From navigating the turbulent waters of PPE sales during the pandemic to launching a flourishing clothing line on Amazon, Shan Shan opens up about her journey, sharing insights on managing high return rates and low margins in the fashion industry. With the looming threat of new tariffs, we explore innovative strategies to ensure profitability and growth, all while discussing the lifestyle benefits of remote work from stunning locations like Medellin, Colombia.   Join us as we explore the revolutionary concept of Kindred, an initiative that turns home-sharing on its head, offering people the chance to live globally by exchanging home credits. Our discussion highlights Austin, Texas, as a vibrant hub for internet marketing and gastronomy, where Michelin-starred dining is now an exciting feature. We dive into how platforms like YouTube have been invaluable for self-education, enabling entrepreneurs like Shan Shan to stay ahead in rapidly changing e-commerce landscapes.   In our forward-looking discussions, we tackle the exciting potential of AI in product development and marketing, where technology is reshaping how products are visualized and sold. Shan Shan shares her approach to continuous innovation, emphasizing the importance of launching new products and optimizing supply chains by exploring manufacturing opportunities in places like Vietnam. Don't miss this episode packed with practical advice and inspiration for anyone navigating the fast-paced world of selling on Amazon. In episode 426 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Shan Shan discuss: 01:00 - Discovering Success With Shan Shan Fu 04:01 - Defining Freedom Income vs Passive Income 08:18 - Entrepreneur Travels With Kindred Program 08:53 - Global Home Sharing and Foodie Explorations 11:57 - Fashion Business and International Manufacturing 12:47 - Success Through Strategic Relationships 22:27 - Navigating Tariffs in Clothing Industry  28:44 - Navigating Tariffs on Imported Goods 30:35 - E-Commerce Product Ideation and Expansion 33:42 - Effectively Targeting Female Influencers 37:54 - AI-Powered Product Development and Expansion 39:44 - Launching New Products for Growth 44:05 - Kevin King's Parting Shot

In this episode, our guest shares her journey in the pet industry, from creative financing to Amazon success, networking in think tanks, and launching her brand on Nordstrom.   Join me as I sit down with Julie Napolitano, a dedicated pet lover and entrepreneur who has carved out a unique path in the pet industry with her Amazon private-label dog brand. Listen in as Julie recounts her transition from a corporate career to launching her own direct-to-consumer business on Shopify, driven by a passion for providing quality products for pets. We'll explore her experiences with innovative financing methods, including bootstrapping and securing grants, and discuss the pivotal role that events like the 7-Figure Seller Summit in Japan and the Market Masters Think Tank have played in shaping her journey.   In this episode, Julie shares the trials and triumphs of launching her brand, Pup Wax, on Amazon and the lessons learned from navigating the platform's complexities. From participating in Target's pet accelerator program to addressing the challenges of product compliance, Julie's story is a testament to persistence and adaptability. We'll discuss the importance of building trust with pet parents and the unique marketing strategies needed to stand out in the competitive pet supplement market.   Finally, Julie reflects on the transformative impact of expert think tanks and the value of networking at in-person events. Her journey underscores the significance of building meaningful relationships and the benefits of continuous learning and adaptation in business. As we wrap up, we'll highlight Julie's latest achievements, including her product launch on Nordstrom's national online platform, and discuss the importance of pursuing goals with passion and creativity. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that celebrates the power of resilience and community in entrepreneurship.   In episode 425 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Julie discuss: 00:00 - Julie Napolitano's Pet Brand Journey 06:18 - From Shopify To Amazon 12:36 - Innovative Calming Dog Toy Development 12:45 - Bonding With Dogs in Modern Society 18:48 - Trend of Pet Adoption and Bonding 21:28 - Marketing Challenges in Pet Industry 24:20 - Marketing Strategies for Pet Owners 27:35 - Amazon Brand Funding Strategies 29:02 - Bootstrapped Entrepreneur Secures Multiple Grants 30:53 - Tory Burch Fellowship Program Benefits 36:34 - Business Growth Through Market Masters Think Tank 42:56 - Product Success and Future Planning 45:44 - Networking Benefits Beyond Virtual Events 47:45 - Trade Show Discussion and Retail Opportunities 50:55 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Join us in this episode as we sit down with a seasoned patent IP lawyer, who shares his knowledge on protecting Amazon sellers from counterfeiters and intellectual property violators. Stan Ference, a seasoned patent IP lawyer with a fascinating transition from electrical engineering, joins us to share his expertise on protecting e-commerce sellers, especially those navigating the complexities of Amazon. Stan sheds light on the often-misunderstood responsibility of brand owners versus Amazon in policing counterfeit products. Since 2018, he's witnessed significant shifts in the e-commerce landscape, revealing the evolving challenges and highlighting the urgency for sellers to take the reins in safeguarding their intellectual property. Engage with Stan’s personal anecdotes and insights, as he uncovers critical strategies for those aiming to protect their brands in a bustling global market.   Throughout the episode, we explore the nuanced intricacies of intellectual property rights, focusing on trademarks, patents, and copyrights. Stan offers a historical perspective on trademarks, demystifying the distinctions between design and utility patents, and their vital roles in protecting innovations. He provides practical advice on overcoming hurdles faced by inventors on platforms like Amazon and crowdfunding sites, where knockoffs are rampant. From early publication requests to expedited applications, Stan emphasizes the importance of timely filings to shield imagery and product listings from unauthorized use, ensuring entrepreneurs can safeguard their creative assets effectively.   Our discussion extends into the global realm of IP protection, dissecting how differing international trademark rules can impact businesses. Stan shares the unique challenges posed by China's "first to file" approach, alongside Amazon's evolving trademark processes and the significance of its transparency program in combating counterfeiters. Through captivating case studies and stories, Stan highlights the profound consequences of intellectual property disputes, from jeopardized business deals to the unauthorized sale of Simpsons-themed merchandise. This episode is a vital resource for Amazon sellers and digital creators striving to protect their intellectual property rights and secure their businesses’ futures against counterfeit threats. In episode 424 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Stan discuss: 00:00 - IP Protection for Sellers on Amazon 04:57 - Amazon's Accountability for Intellectual Property 10:24 - Enforcing Brand Rights on Amazon 13:37 - Intellectual Property Overview 15:09 - Intellectual Property Strategies for Amazon Sellers 18:05 - Water Balloon Invention Story 23:41 - Global Trademark Protection Overview 24:15 - Amazon Sellers IP Protection Strategies 27:27 - Amazon Transparency Program and Trademark Registration 31:34 - Trademark Renewal Requirements and Deadlines 40:01 - Global IP Protection and Branding Strategies 46:30 - Protecting Your Brand From Knockoffs 57:10 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

In this episode, we will explore e-commerce strategies, personal stories, industry trends, and Amazon tips, as well as insights on networking, market shifts, and He Carrie Miller from Helium 10 uncovers the hidden gems of the e-commerce universe in a conversation filled with personal stories, professional insights, and a touch of Thanksgiving gratitude. Her journey, which intertwines with platforms like Walmart and TikTok, offers a fresh perspective on the future of e-commerce. Carrie shares how her father's entrepreneurial spirit and career success inspired her to help revive a struggling skateboard brand, demonstrating the power of family ties and innovative thinking.    The world of skateboarding and rollerblading takes center stage as we explore the vibrant industry trends and challenges traditional companies face amidst the rise of electric boards. Carrie recounts memorable moments from the Billion Dollar Seller Summit and Helium 10 Elite events, from strategic victories in tug-of-war competitions to unforgettable company gatherings filled with camaraderie and humor. This lively discussion highlights the importance of community and shared experiences, painting a colorful picture of both the personal and professional journeys in the Amazon-selling business landscape.   We navigate the intricacies of e-commerce strategies, touching on geofencing, Amazon sales tactics, and the potential shifts in manufacturing brought about by tariffs. Carrie's insights into Helium 10's innovative tools offer valuable lessons for optimizing Amazon listings, while the broader conversation addresses quality shifts in the market and the importance of networking. The episode closes with a nod to the Helium 10 Elite group's collaborative spirit, underscoring the value of helping others achieve their goals to find personal fulfillment. This dynamic episode promises to inspire and inform anyone passionate about online business and entrepreneurship. In episode 423 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Carrie discuss: 00:00 - E-Commerce Trends and Tools Discussion 03:14 - Podcast Success With Helium 10 07:49 - Skateboard Business Trends and Experiences 11:46 - Geofencing and Digital Advertising Strategies 16:29 - Geofencing for Targeted Advertising 21:04 - Amazon Sales Strategy and Helium 10 33:43 - Quality Over Quantity in Product Sourcing 37:21 - Tariffs and Manufacturing in the USA 40:58 - Reviving American Manufacturing Quality 42:28 - Importance of Networking and Event Attendance 46:18 - High-Impact Business Development Strategy Sessions 52:37 - Helium 10 Elite Monthly Training Session 53:16 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom lium 10's innovative tools.

In this episode, learn how to choose the right Amazon agency! This episode reveals tips on agency selection, hiring practices, and what to expect from a high-quality agency. Join Kevin as he welcomes Pasha Knish to explore the vibrant world of Amazon agencies. Pasha, an experienced agency leader, shares his journey from being an Amazon seller to managing a full-service agency. We discuss the nuances of agency operations, including effective communication with Amazon sellers and the importance of authenticity in business relationships. Pasha provides valuable insights on choosing the right agency and hiring the right team members, all while highlighting the rewarding experience of hosting a podcast and gaining inspiration from seasoned service providers.   Discover the evolving landscape of Amazon agencies as we examine industry changes since 2011, including the rise of software tools that have transformed agency operations. We discuss the diverse motivations behind starting an agency, from genuine expertise to opportunistic ventures, and the current challenges of demonstrating expertise and reliability to clients. Emphasizing data-driven insights, we explore the necessity of building trust and ensuring effective service delivery in a competitive environment, and we share real-life examples of agency owners navigating these challenges.   Lastly, we discuss strategies for agency growth, the trend of agency roll-ups, and exit strategies for agency owners. Learn about the creative deal structures that allow aggregators to acquire agencies without upfront costs and the benefits of partnering with an agency. We also highlight the importance of building quality agencies for long-term success, maintaining a strong company culture, and balancing client relationships. For those interested in expanding their knowledge, we recommend checking out Pasha's podcast, "The Agency Operator," and invite you to sign up for Kevin’s upcoming Billion Dollar Seller Newsletter webinar for more insights. In episode 422 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Pasha discuss: 00:00 - Inside the Amazon Agency World 03:56 - Podcasts Inspire Action and Growth 06:42 - Long-Term ROI and Building Relationships 12:30 - Navigating the Amazon Agency Landscape 16:07 - Challenges of Selling on Amazon Agencies 20:11 - Quality and Management of Virtual Assistants 22:23 - Building Quality Agencies for Long-Term Success 28:42 - Agency Growth and Exit Strategies 32:31 - Fully Built Out System for Success 38:09 - Advantages of Agency Business Model 40:39 - Acquiring and Growing Amazon Agencies 42:29 - Opportunities and Challenges in Agency Acquisitions 46:29 - Building Trust in Agency Success 48:18 - Agency Growth Strategies and Optimization 53:28 - Exploring Diverse Business Perspectives 54:20 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Learn strategies from today’s guest who shares her journey managing a $20M Amazon business. Discover tips on sourcing, multi-channel sales, and scaling leadership for lasting success. Can you imagine sustaining a $20 million Amazon business where 70% of sales happen in just one season? Join us as we explore the toy industry with Jennifer Young, who shares her unmatched expertise in orchestrating this financial ballet. From tackling the fourth-quarter rush with precise forecasting to leveraging her Chinese connections for strategic sourcing, Jennifer reveals how she keeps her business thriving amidst varying challenges. She discusses the role of strategic partnerships and the financial acumen required to turn seasonal spikes into sustained success. In this episode, we navigate the world of global product development and marketing, dissecting the art of juggling quality issues, inventory management, and brand differentiation. Jennifer sheds light on the multi-channel sales strategy involving Amazon, Walmart, and D2C channels, highlighting the importance of maintaining target margins and adapting to rising costs. With a mixed team based in China and the U.S., she illustrates the cultural nuances of marketing to a Western audience and the strategic advantages of having a U.S.-based category manager to enhance product presentation and conversion rates. Leadership and team growth are at the heart of scaling any successful business, and Jennifer's journey is no exception. Discover her insights on finding trustworthy leaders, fostering a secure work environment, and the essential mindset shifts needed for expansion. She emphasizes the significance of mentorship and continuous learning, drawing from personal experiences and shared knowledge within the Amazon seller community. As we wrap up, Jennifer's story underscores her commitment to exploration, helping others succeed, and the joy derived from seeing team members, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, grow and flourish in the corporate world. In episode 421 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jennifer discuss: 00:00 - Managing Seasonal Sales and Cash Flow 07:16 - Forecasting Sales Using BSR Rankings  11:28 - Global Product Development and Marketing Challenges 17:21 - Scaling a Business and Team Development 18:33 - Scaling Amazon Business for Growth  24:30 - Team Growth and Cultural Advantages 26:20 - Chinese Sellers and Brand Strategy 31:00 - Navigating the Amazon Seller Journey 35:33 - Best Conference Meal Experience 39:18 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom and Tribute to Zoe

In this episode, get expert Amazon-selling insights! Let’s discover winning strategies for organic search ranking, PPC optimization, and how AI is transforming Amazon search.   Join us as we welcome Brian Johnson to the AM/PM podcast, where we reflect on nearly a decade of experiences and insights in the Amazon-selling space. Brian and Kevin go way back to around 2014-2015, meeting at local meetups and SellerCon, and even sharing a mastermind group with some industry legends. Listen in as we reminisce about the evolution of mastermind groups, the significance of collaboration, and the transition from learning various tactics to transparent data practices in Amazon strategies. We celebrate Brian's dedication to sharing his expertise openly and his remarkable journey in e-commerce.   In this engaging episode, Brian and Kevin discuss the challenges and creativity required to succeed in the competitive Amazon marketplace. From launching a Julian vegetable peeler to mastering Amazon PPC advertising, we share our entrepreneurial journeys and the innovative strategies that emerged from them. We explore how tracking factors for search rank optimization can significantly boost organic sales and revenue, while also emphasizing the power of data in providing actionable insights. Brian's transition into the Amazon PPC realm, the evolution of strategies, and his exit from a PPC software venture are some highlights of our conversation.   As we look towards the future, the episode explores the transformative impact of AI on search technology and user behavior. We discuss how AI is changing search processes, leading to clickless searches and streamlining research tasks. Despite changes in search results, we emphasize the importance of staying adaptable to new technologies. The episode wraps up with reflections on the value of networking and wisdom in the e-commerce industry, and Kevin encourages listeners to stay tuned for more exciting episodes. Whether you're a seasoned Amazon seller or new to e-commerce, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration from Brian Johnson's experiences and expertise.   In episode 420 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Brian discuss: 00:00 - Decade-Long Relationship and E-Commerce Insights 09:58 - Amazon Organic Ranking Strategy and DeepM 11:19 - Entrepreneurial Philosophy and Competition 15:23 - Organic Rank in Amazon 19:48 - Amazon Search Rank Optimization Strategy 22:49 - Amazon SEO and Deep Learning Analysis 27:41 - Optimizing Search Rank Factors for Sales 27:45 - Amazon Search Optimization Strategies 31:23 - Rank Destroyers in Amazon Search Marketing 34:49 - Secrets of Amazon Ranking Factors 45:22 - Future of Search Engine Optimization 45:55 - Future of AI in Search Optimization 49:56 - Dynamic Titles in Amazon Search 54:32 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom

In this episode, let’s supercharge your Amazon listings! Discover expert tips on A+ content, visual storytelling, and creative optimization to boost sales and captivate customers. E-commerce listing wizard Daniela Bolzmann joins us to uncover the secrets to mastering Amazon listing optimization. From her tech beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in e-commerce optimization, Daniela shares her incredible journey, revealing how she discovered her passion. Her insights on the pressures and freedoms of transitioning from startup life to following passion-driven ventures paint a vivid picture of today’s evolving work culture. Our conversation dives into powerful strategies for Amazon advertising and branding, challenging the status quo of product marketing. Starting with creative development, Daniela emphasizes capturing consumer attention through sound-infused product presentations and consistent branding. We explore the structured processes that help brands elevate their content, from sharp data analysis to creative briefs, and discuss the importance of split testing. The episode dives into the various levels of support brands require, whether they’re seeking full autonomy or ongoing collaboration. The art of enhancing Amazon listings and A+ content through creative optimization and visual storytelling is another focus, highlighting the role of specialized teams in transforming product imagery into engaging stories. Daniela sheds light on AI and advanced search tools reshaping product discovery, and the importance of embedding metadata in images for visibility. We discuss the power of premium A+ content, featuring innovative strategies like hotspots and carousels, to boost engagement. This episode promises to inspire listeners with actionable insights to elevate their Amazon presence and drive sales growth. In episode 419 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Daniela discuss: 00:00 - Mastering Amazon Listings With Daniela Bolzmann 01:59 - Speaking at Amazon Accelerate Event  08:25 - Amazon Sellers Lack Marketing Psychology 09:13 - Amazon Advertising Strategy and Branding 11:28 - Elevated Content Creation and Process Implementation 15:32 - Enhancing Amazon Listings Through Creative Optimization 17:09 - Amazon SEO Optimization Fundamentals 19:38 - Google Image Traffic for Amazon Products 23:12 - Optimizing Amazon Listings for Search 24:25 - Future of Image-Based Search Tools 27:12 - Common Mistakes in Image Creation 30:23 - Optimizing Amazon Listings With Visual Storytelling 32:45 - Utilizing User-Generated Content for Marketing 36:46 - Seamless Image Design Techniques 42:41 - Exploring Peruvian Cuisine and Fusion 48:11 - Kevin King's Words of Wisdom