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Scott Needham is the Founder of SmartScout. An Amazon software developer for 10 years his company BuyBoxer has done over $300m in sales on Amazon. Scott has accumulated a deep...
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Scott Needham is the Founder of SmartScout. An Amazon software developer for 10 years his company BuyBoxer has done over $300m in sales on Amazon. Scott has accumulated a deep knowledge about selling product online, and in the podcast he shares his knowledge with you to help you become a better Amazon seller.
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The Smartest Amazon Seller
The Smartest Amazon Seller
27 AUG 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: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/the-best-financing-loans-for-amazon-sellers
20 AUG 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: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/amazon-suspension-what-is-it-and-how-to-avoid-it
13 AUG 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: https://www.spreaker.com/cms/episodes/61009483/edit/Pattern.comhttps:/pattern.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-hahn-12136736
Related Post: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/is-amazon-fba-worth-it
6 AUG 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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-gershman-4a8411b
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diana_in_real_life/
Related Post: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/search-amazon-storefronts-and-sellers
30 JUL 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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-justice
Related Post: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/search-amazon-storefronts-and-sellers
23 JUL 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: https://www.smartscout.com/amazon-software-comparison/the-best-software-tools-for-an-amazon-fba-wholesale-seller
16 JUL 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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesclark2
Related Post: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/middle-east-products-for-us-wholesalers
9 JUL 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: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/top-chrome-extensions
2 JUL 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: https://www.instagram.com/amazonkingpin?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Related Post: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/retail-arbitrage-vs-online-arbitrage
26 JUN 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: http://www.zignify.net/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastianherz
Related Post: https://www.smartscout.com/blog/retail-arbitrage-vs-online-arbitrage
Scott Needham is the Founder of SmartScout. An Amazon software developer for 10 years his company BuyBoxer has done over $300m in sales on Amazon. Scott has accumulated a deep...
show more
Scott Needham is the Founder of SmartScout. An Amazon software developer for 10 years his company BuyBoxer has done over $300m in sales on Amazon. Scott has accumulated a deep knowledge about selling product online, and in the podcast he shares his knowledge with you to help you become a better Amazon seller.
show less
Information
| Author | Scott Needham |
| Organization | Scott Needham |
| Categories | Technology , Entrepreneurship , How To |
| Website | WWW.SMARTSCOUT.COM |
| scott@smartscout.com |
Copyright 2024 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company
