Honest Ecommerce

Preston Rutherford is the Cofounder of Chubbies Shorts, which was acquired for 9-figures and is now part Solo Brands, a public company.

He is also the Cofounder of Loop Returns, the top Shopify Returns & Exchanges Platform.

Preston is an expert in Marketing, Growth, Brand, E-commerce, CRO, Data, Acquisition, and Retention. He’s also a dabbler in private equity, enterprise fintech software, and real estate development.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:46] Intro
• [01:32] Bringing retro & fun clothing back 
• [03:30] Filling a gap in the market
• [04:24] Harnessing founders' individual skill sets
• [05:33] Assessing markers for full-time transition
• [06:35] Using personal interactions promote Your brand
• [08:19] Sparking genuine interest for the brand
• [09:21] Recognizing external validation
• [10:03] Creating a genuine brand image using UGC
• [11:32]  Staying true to vision amidst skepticism
• [12:45] Episode sponsors
• [16:58] Establishing brand presence through content
• [18:59] Nurturing founder relationships & customer trust
• [20:05] Building a positive association with customers
• [20:53] Turning rough returns into smooth solutions
• [22:31] Transforming Ecommerce solution ideas into action
• [24:21] Solving problems without other expectations
• [26:25]  Helping entrepreneurs navigate brand building

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Proper length men’s shorts and custom-built-for-the-weekend apparel chubbiesshorts.com/
• Returns management for Ecommerce brands loopreturns.com/
• Follow Preston Rutherford linkedin.com/in/prestonr/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at https://www.intelligems.io/
• Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process https://www.portless.com/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Daniel Winer HexClad Co-Founder & CEO CEO, Co-Founder and kitchen maverick, Daniel Winer is the mastermind behind HexClad Cookware. 

After spending more than a decade building relationships in the industry, Daniel recognized the opportunity for cookware in the DTC market. He worked to develop the first true innovation in cookware since the invention of non-stick - the patented HexClad design – which provides the searing capability of stainless steel and cast iron with the easy cleanup of nonstick for an unparalleled, high-performance culinary experience. 

Daniel began marketing HexClad directly to consumers in 2016 and in 2021, partnered with 22-time Michelin-Starred Chef, Gordon Ramsay. 

To date, HexClad has become one of the most successful self-funded, DTC companies in any category driving hundreds of millions in sales and revolutionizing the cookware industry along the way. 

Danny currently leads the strategic direction of HexClad along with all product development efforts and global expansion initiatives. Daniel holds a Bachelors of Arts degree from New York University. 

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:48] Intro
• [01:51] Turning cookware passion into a business idea
• [03:17] Reflecting on failures and lessons learned
• [05:18] Exploring product designs
• [06:14] Unexpected branding success
• [07:05] Making sacrifices for business growth
• [07:39] Emphasizing storytelling in marketing
• [09:02] Serendipitous encounter with Costco
• [10:14] Experimenting with messaging
• [11:08] Generating discussion and engagement
• [11:48] Identifying with the Gen Z and Millennials
• [13:31] Evaluating profitability and engagement metrics
• [14:09] Assessing ad spend efficiency
• [15:31] Balancing ad budget and revenue
• [16:34] Transitioning in-store insights to Facebook ads
• [18:26] Defying expectations with progressive growth
• [19:58] Episode sponsors
• [22:00] Harnessing collaborative power
• [23:43] Entering the market with a game-changing product
• [25:41] Upholding trust and customer commitment
• [27:02] Ask questions and accept constructive feedback
• [29:00] Embracing failure as a stepping stone
• [29:36] The importance of self-reflection as entrepreneurs
• [31:33] Where to find HexClad
• [32:23] Inspiring future entrepreneurs with success stories

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• The only true hybrid cookware https://hexclad.com/
• Follow Daniel Winer https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-winer-647bba90/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at https://www.intelligems.io/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Lindsay More Nisbett is an entrepreneur, creative director, and Co-Founder & Brand Director of The Line Studios, a leading creative production studio with expertise in creating compelling e-commerce and marketing content. 

Since its inception in January 2016, Lindsay has built The Line Studios into the go-to imagery experts for top e-commerce brands, including Hill House Home, MM LaFleur, Negative Underwear, Fresh Beauty, Faherty Brand, and many more. By striking the perfect balance between a beautiful image and an efficient production process, The Line Studios has become well-known for providing their clients with best-in-class e-commerce imagery that drives incremental lift in revenue. 

Lindsay's vision for The Line Studios transcends mere visuals; it's about crafting exceptional e-commerce imagery that not only elevates the client's brand but also translates into outstanding results. Her unwavering commitment to delivering the highest quality visuals has allowed The Line Studios to capture the very essence of their client's products and effectively convey their brand's unique message to consumers. 

Lindsay More Nisbett continues to shape the Ecommerce landscape, setting new standards of excellence with each project undertaken by The Line Studios.

In This Conversation We Discuss: 

• [00:46] Intro
• [02:39] Shifting from ad campaigns to Ecommerce
• [03:56] Bridging luxury brands’ Ecomm struggles
• [05:34] Incorporating brand voice through imagery
• [08:06] Elevating basic product imagery
• [09:37] Crafting visual brand language
• [11:29] The ROI of experimenting with imagery
• [12:56] Focusing on best-selling products
• [14:06] Investing strategically in assets
• [15:38] Standing out against competition
• [17:11] Diversifying video content
• [18:43] Building trust through imagery
• [20:23] Limitations of AI in imagery
• [22:04] Rising trends in ecommerce imagery
• [23:52] Reevaluating website priorities
• [24:48] Evolving consumer behavior
• [25:20] Reach out to The Line Studios

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Creative production solutions for Ecommerce brands thelinestudios.nyc
• Follow Lindsay More Nisbett linkedin.com/in/lindsay-more-nisbett-01005b4/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Samantha Coxe is the CEO and Founder of Flaus, the world's first electric flosser. Prior to founding Flaus, Sam was a M&A attorney at Skadden, Arps, assisting dozens of high growth startups through their entire life cycle - from formation to exit. 

As a Female Founder, Sam’s passions supporting Women’s Rights, inclusivity, sustainability, and self-acceptance are the foundation of Flaus’ brand mission and personality.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:44] Intro
• [01:16] Flossing frustration sparks business idea
• [02:44] From concept to data validation
• [03:39] DIY-ing the first prototype
• [04:39] The power of surveys and data-driven validation
• [06:25] Discovering the target audience already existed
• [08:25] Navigating crowdfunding campaigns
• [09:38] Managing crowdfunding expectations  
• [10:42] Partnering with crowdfunding agencies
• [12:27] Harnessing email list & pre-campaign momentum
• [15:27] Understanding crowdfunding realities
• [16:16] Episode sponsors
• [20:30] Learning the essentials before the actual launch
• [22:11] Strategic investor partnerships
• [23:10] Optimizing customer acquisition
• [24:09] Discovering diverse customer audiences
• [25:30] Focusing and improving what works
• [26:55] Stay the course, avoid over-expansion
• [28:10] Thriving in challenging times
• [29:47] Check out Flaus products

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• The world’s first eco-friendly, electric flosser goflaus.com/
• Follow Samantha Coxe linkedin.com/in/samanthacoxe/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at intelligems.io/
• Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Darron Burke is the founder and CEO of Burke Brands, a 20-year-old specialty coffee growing and roasting company that started in a garage and now has over $100M in lifetime sales. 

The company produces the Don Pablo, Pablo's Pride, and Subtle Earth Organic coffee brands, in addition to private label brands for third party CPG companies. Its own brands are sold in Costco, Walmart/Sam's Club, Kroger, and other brick and mortar locations, as well as online. 

Darron has always been entrepreneurial, starting various businesses, but immediately before becoming "Don Pablo," Darron taught Entrepreneurship at an inner-city Miami High School for four years.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:46] Intro
• [01:55] The 20-year journey of a novel coffee brand
• [02:56] Exploring coffee farms as a curious entrepreneur
• [04:19] Pushing through against the discouragement
• [05:37] The upside of naivety as a startup business
• [06:34] Persistence pays: from garage to Costco
• [07:36] Leveraging roadshows to gain exposure
• [08:47] Reaching out to different demographics
• [09:41] Building momentum pre-digital advertising era
• [10:14] Hopping on to the digital marketing surge
• [11:09] The pressure that comes with the first order
• [12:35] Being resourceful in the midst of pressure
• [13:24] Building success, one cup at a time
• [15:26] Episode sponsors
• [17:28] The value of giving out free samples
• [19:12] Utilizing modern Ecommerce strategies
• [20:52] From supply chain issues to scaling success online
• [22:02] Balancing retail channels
• [23:14] Maximizing market reach via cross-channel synergy
• [24:32] Unlocking private label profit
• [25:53] Streamlined private labeling
• [26:55] Adding value beyond product
• [28:17] Check out Don Pablo Coffee

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Whole Bean Coffee, Ground Coffee, and K-Cups from Don Pablo donpablocoffee.com/
• Follow Darron "Don Pablo" Burke linkedin.com/in/darron-don-pablo-burke/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at intelligems.io/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Josh is the Founder and CEO of Meriwether - the SEO agency that generates new revenue for ecommerce brands. Learn more at meriwether.digital.

In This Conversation We Discuss: 

• [00:45] Intro
• [01:06] Evaluating the Ecommerce SEO landscape
• [02:28] Maximizing SEO investment in modern Ecommerce
• [05:03] The power of backlinks in the digital space
• [06:44] Navigating backlink competition and the costs
• [07:33] Boosting SEO with targeted content
• [09:24] Customizing SEO efforts for Ecommerce niches
• [11:04] Navigating SEO strategy based on search demand
• [11:49] Converting people’s search intent to sales
• [13:37] GA4’s model comparison tool & Search Console
• [16:00] Building topical authority for long-term results
• [17:39] Sniping easy keywords as a smart SEO start
• [19:04] Utilizing keyword tools for keyword ideation
• [21:28] The value of unique perspectives in content
• [23:46] The power of dedication in content marketing
• [25:03] Boost website performance with attribution reports
• [26:20] Ecommerce SEO & content marketing with Meriwether

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Ecommerce SEO and content marketing https://www.meriwether.digital/
• Follow Josh Piepmeier https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshpiepmeier/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Meet the trailblazer behind the freshest face in the sparkling water game, Mike Pilkington. He is the co-founder of KEY Sparkling Water. He’s a graduate of Wayne State University (BA - Psychology) and University of Detroit Mercy (MBA).

Going beyond the bubbles, Mike has a history steeped in grit and growth. From supercharging Death Wish Coffee into one of the top coffee brands in the United States to navigating the waters of Sysco's strategic acquisitions and leading Sysco Albany's operations, his leadership and vision have been second to none. 

Now, at the helm of KEY, he's here to deliver a gulp of authenticity with the right kick of real fruit all in a can as rugged as your ambition.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:42] Intro
• [01:43] revolutionizing the sparkling water market
• [02:30] Entering the crowd space to disrupt the norm
• [03:22] Building a startup biz with a clear vision 
• [04:28] Forming connections and scaling success
• [06:03] Self-awareness and ego-free leadership
• [07:17] Strategic hiring and delegation
• [08:13] Honest self-assessment goes a long way
• [09:35] Assembling a winning team
• [12:08] Failing openly and embracing transparency
• [13:00] Focusing on capacity, not credentials
• [13:56] The fragile nature of startups
• [15:03] Navigating early-stage startup roles
• [16:18] Episode sponsors
• [21:27] Leveraging multichannel strategy
• [22:48] How to start? Just get started
• [25:02] Lead generation and touching bases with people
• [27:04] Utilizing word-of-mouth
• [27:45] The power of telling your story
• [28:34] People are accessible, just reach out
• [29:47] Get real fruit, shenanigan-free sparkling water

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Real fruit and shenanigan-free sparkling water keysparklingwater.com/
• Follow Mike Pilkington linkedin.com/in/mike-pilkington-yes/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at intelligems.io/
• Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Griffin Spolansky is the CEO and Co-Founder of Mezcla, a plant-based snack brand that is mixing it up with exciting flavors and textures. 

Griffin was also named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2023 Food and Beverage. He’s also a part of  Division 1 Men's Lacrosse National Champion - 2019 - University of Virginia Israel Men's National Lacrosse Team.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:47] Intro
• [01:38] The start of an entrepreneurial idea
• [02:11] Balancing personal and professional life
• [03:23] Facing and overcoming expectations 
• [04:00] Crafting, testing, and refining samples
• [04:41] Leveraging connections for co-manufacturing
• [05:33] The timing from idea to samples
• [06:00] Pivoting in a pandemic
• [06:39] Capitalizing influencers and their audience
• [07:35] Choosing the right influencers as advocates
• [08:25] Valuing influencers’ authenticity over clout
• [09:27] Managing stress and setbacks
• [10:22] Shifting From Ecommerce to retail
• [11:01] The power of experienced guidance
• [12:26] Episode sponsors
• [15:21] Learning from hiring mistakes
• [16:43] Accepting constructive criticisms
• [17:23] Pushing through the highs and lows
• [17:51] Where to get Mezcla plant protein bars

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Feel-good moments with plant-based snacks eatmezcla.com/
• Follow Griffin Spolansky linkedin.com/in/griffinspolansky/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at intelligems.io/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Kelly Oriard is the co-founder and Chief Therapeutic Officer at Slumberkins, a children’s education and emotional health brand. She holds a dual master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and School Counseling. 

As a therapist, school counselor, and mother, Oriard is passionate about changing how we support mental and emotional wellbeing for children and families. 

As the author behind the character storylines at Slumberkins, Kelly is changing the way children and families can access the content and strategies, usually found in a family therapy session, in a fun, easy-to-use way that creates healing and brings meaningful moments of connection that make a lifelong impact on the emotional health of children. 

Callie Christensen is the co-founder and Chief Community Officer at Slumberkins, a children’s education and emotional wellness brand. Callie holds a master’s in teaching elementary education and special education. 

As a mother and educator turned entrepreneur, she’s on a mission to use her educational background to create an accessible, meaningful, and purposeful brand that is useful in every home and school to help support families and communities on their journeys of emotional health. 

Slumberkins is at the forefront of brand building online as they expand into children’s entertainment by bringing the characters to life in a preschool television series produced by The Jim Henson Company. 

They just launched the first-ever music album for kids & families: Together We Shine, Vol. 1. Debuted as #1 kids album on iTunes https://orcd.co/slumberkinstws 

They also just launched a New Affirmation App on iTunes that's free for kids and families https://apps.apple.com/us/app/slumberkins/id1627118113 

Slumberkins children's show streaming now on Apple TV+ https://tv.apple.com/us/show/slumberkins/umc.cmc.4r9fjly8gp831gqkfe8ft1xrb 

They are making as many tools and resources available to families so they can easily integrate moments of connection and social emotional learning into every day.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:45] Intro
• [01:53] A business idea for children’s mental health
• [03:00] From side hustle to full-time success
• [04:02] Continuing the momentum online
• [04:53] Doing your best in research and storytelling
• [05:30] Experiencing organic growth from social media
• [06:15] Achieving BHAG with the right manufacturer
• [07:21] Building good relationships with business partners
• [09:21] Establishing Slumberkins' online presence
• [11:00] The Shark Tank push to be full-time entrepreneurs
• [12:46] Low salaries for long-term business hains
• [15:04] A transformative experience with Shark Tank
• [16:40] Connecting authentically with your community
• [18:22] Episode sponsors
• [23:36] Bringing Slumberkins to the screen
• [25:37] Authentic relationships do the magic
• [26:16] The sales surge post-Slumberkins TV debut
• [27:22] Community feedback is marketing itself
• [28:20] How landing a TV series elevates a business
• [29:08] Seizing omni-channel opportunities
• [29:46] Extending parent-child connection with an app
• [31:12] Navigating the continuous evolution of Ecomm
• [33:19] Embracing the endless rollercoaster ride

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Educational and emotional learning products for children slumberkins.com/
• Follow Callie Christensen linkedin.com/in/callie-christensen-146b48148/
• Follow Kelly Oriard linkedin.com/in/kelly-oriard-149b48148/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at intelligems.io/
• Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Elizabeth is a seasoned expert in the field of conferences, with nearly a decade of experience in market research and event organization in the retail and finance sectors. Since 2021, she has played an integral role in the powerhouse eTail Palm Springs team, co-producing the event alongside Kristin Schoenstein. 

When not immersed in the world of eCommerce conferences, she calls Queens home, sharing her space with her cat Wednesday. 

Kristin Schoenstein has been a Program Director at Worldwide Business Research since 2010 and has been producing events since 2004. She currently specializes in the retail and eCommerce sector where she is the Portfolio Director for eTail, which includes producing eTail Boston and co-producing eTail Palm Springs. 

In her free time, Kristin lives on the East End of Long Island where she enjoys boating, yoga, running and days at the beach with her husband and three daughters.

In This Conversation We Discuss: 

• [00:49] Intro
• [01:21] Being a program director for industry conferences
• [02:28] Trend #1: the role of AI in retail businesses
• [03:09] Trend #2: Social commerce and live shopping
• [03:32] Trend #3: Launching partnerships to expand reach
• [05:04] Conferences bring like-minded people together
• [06:10] Creating opportunities for people to network
• [07:21] Curating relevant content from outstanding speakers
• [08:22] Inviting panels across different fields
• [09:12] eTail’s 25th anniversary: walk down the memory lane
• [09:56] A fun time for both attendees and staff members
• [10:40] Don’t do everything, divide and conquer

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• A community of retailers launching industry conferences etailwest.wbresearch.com/
• Follow Kristin Schoenstein linkedin.com/in/kristin-paulick-schoenstein-0a7aa95/
• Follow Elizabeth Robillard linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-robillard-a3141150/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Michael Nguyen is an entrepreneur and the Founder of Fire & Brilliance who has dedicated most of his professional life to the beautiful world of jewelry. 

He kicked off his career in sales within the financial services sector before ever marketing a single ring, bracelet, necklace or pair of earrings. 

This was when he discovered that he had a natural talent in curating relationships, conveying relevance and building long-term business connections. 

In his mid-20’s, Michael started his jewelry career by creating custom and unique pieces for his clients. 

Michael was also an early adopter of lab-grown moissanite, diamonds and gemstones which led him to influence a movement that disrupted the traditional ways of doing “business as usual.” 

Fire & Brilliance was nominated as one of Inc 5000’s fastest growing companies in both 2019 and 2020 with its unique approach. 

As a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America, Michael is the host of the “Geminar” show where he provides relevant jewelry industry knowledge and insights. 

Outside of running his business, Michael enjoys reading, staying in shape, spending time with great company and tasting all types of fire-burning hot sauces.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:47] Intro
• [01:34] Creating lab-created gemstones & custom jewelry 
• [02:35] From corporate misery to entrepreneurial journey
• [03:48] Inspiration from parents and the immigrant hustle
• [04:35] Undergoing mentorship and first business partnership
• [05:50] Transitioning to online sales and Ecommerce
• [07:29] Mastering jewelry through experience and study
• [08:01] Taking a leap of faith to expand your business
• [08:40] Scaling up to set business up for success
• [09:37] Episode sponsors
• [12:14] Learning Ecommerce essentials from customers
• [13:31] Building a lasting online reputation
• [14:11] Streamlined user-friendly experience on Shopify
• [16:18] Leveraging YouTube for organic growth
• [17:06] Pioneering jewelry content on YouTube
• [17:51] Navigating paid advertising for more growth
• [18:43] Using different platforms to get organic eyeballs
• [19:33] The riches are in the niches
• [20:40] Breaking the silence in the jewelry industry
• [21:15] Increasing awareness through educational content
• [22:35] Using multi-channel audience engagement
• [23:55] Facing rising competition in the jewelry industry
• [24:36] Staying true to core beliefs, quality, and value 
• [25:21] Building a community of loyal customers
• [26:01] The joy of being a business of celebration
• [26:31] Where to get quality and custom made jewelry

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Custom moissanite and lab-grown engagement rings fireandbrilliance.com/
• Relevant jewelry industry knowledge and insights youtube.com/c/FireandBrilliance
• Follow Michael Nguyen www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfireandbrilliance/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Book a demo today at intelligems.io/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Emily launched clean beauty brand Concrete Minerals in 2009 with $100, and bootstrapped it into a multi-million dollar business over a decade. 

She took an exit in 2019, and after two years of building, launched her second brand EXOH, this time in the health and personal care spaces.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:44] Intro
• [01:52] How Concrete Materials started
• [02:26] Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs
• [03:20] Boldly starting a company out of annoyance
• [04:44] Learning what the market really wants 
• [05:31] Hitting rock bottom, the only way is up
• [06:58] Having less Ecommerce resources back in the day
• [07:48] Building a fan base for people interested 
• [08:23] Leveraging the Wild West of social media
• [10:14] Episode sponsors
• [13:05] Setting your business up for success 
• [13:59] Managing backend to support scaling
• [14:43] Maximizing email marketing
• [15:33] Finding and working with reliable partners
• [16:59] Doing the business in-house
• [17:32] Reaching maximum growth with no solid direction
• [18:24] Getting maxed out, the only way out is out
• [19:10] Taking the exit and finding people to take over
• [20:01] Taking a well-deserved break from everything
• [20:49] Getting inspired again & revisiting business ideas
• [21:33] Going back to business stronger and wiser
• [22:15] Prioritizing in-house production
• [23:53] Launching D2C and studying the numbers
• [24:27] Gathering more data and feedback
• [25:25] The importance of direct connection with audience
• [26:09] Venture capitalists investing on consumer goods
• [26:43] Building genuine, direct, & authentic connection 
• [28:05] Where to check out EXOH

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Amazing-smelling lip balm exoh.co/
• Follow Emily DeLapp linkedin.com/in/emilydelapp/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Revolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Claus Lauter is an entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in eCommerce, SaaS, and marketing. 

He’s an official Shopify and certified Klaviyo Partner, award-winning eCommerce store owner, and certified Google expert. He was named one of the Top 20 Shopify Experts to follow in 2022. 

Claus is the producer and host of the Ecommerce Coffee Break Podcast, voted as a Top 20 Shopify Podcast on Feedspot. He has started and grown businesses in the USA, Germany, South Africa, and Singapore, and is a true enthusiast of entrepreneurship and digital marketing. 

As an avid traveler, he has visited more than 60 countries and lived on three continents.

In This Conversation We Discuss: 

• [00:56] Intro
• [01:23] Discovering a new platform amidst pandemic
• [02:36] Where Pareto Principle originated
• [03:28] How the 80-20 rule enlightened businesses
• [04:48] Applying the 80-20 rule to time management
• [06:06] Monitoring where you ad spend goes
• [06:51] Assess your skills and what you can outsource
• [07:44] Get rid of processes that don’t bring good results
• [08:45] The 80-20 rule in retaining and firing employees
• [09:46] Being considerate & professional when outsourcing
• [10:46] Optimizing processes & knowing when to let staff go
• [11:44] Perfection is the enemy of progress
• [13:11] Learn the know hows of what you’re outsourcing
• [13:56] Familiarize yourself with all the business processes
• [14:29] Ecommerce Coffee Break podcast for marketers
• [15:19] Smart E-Commerce Marketing for outsourcing

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Marketing podcasts for online sellers, merchants, and DTC brands ecommercecoffeebreak.com/
• Offshore (remote) team providers at half the cost smart-ecommerce-marketing.com/
• Follow Claus Lauter linkedin.com/in/clauslauter/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Mike Feldstein is the founder of Jaspr, an exceptional air purifier designed for high performance but with aesthetics that the D2C market demands. 

Working in the wildfire and flood restoration sector, Mike witnessed how polluted air can damage people’s health, and he discovered that standard air purifiers on the market cannot make substantial improvements in air quality. 

He decided to create something to fix the problem. Jaspr air purifiers have all of the power and efficacy of an air scrubber while being quiet and stylish – something that people would actually use.

Jaye Genung comes from an eclectic career history that includes project management, product development, procurement and account management. 

Her employment history includes medical devices, b2b electro-mechanical and cpg companies. 

This mosaic of experience set the stage for her to be able to start out with her own founder's story.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:48] Intro
• [02:26] Seizing the opportunity to start a business
• [04:10] Considering the working class in product designs
• [04:52] Researching the supply chain with trusted network
• [06:25] Negotiating for MOQs & prioritizing customer needs
• [07:50] Having someone that pushes you and believes in you
• [08:26] Talking to people means building a relationship
• [09:48] Doing your research and creating a strategy
• [10:33] Offering something new & investing on ads 
• [11:26] Gaining traction quickly after the first 100 orders
• [12:02] Investing in ads for customer acquisition
• [12:47] From a side hustle to working full time
• [13:44] Seeing the business grow over the years 
• [14:46] Pushing through amid doubts & mental blocks
• [15:15] What CEOs need to learn and accept
• [16:09] Success is not just one thing
• [17:03] Finding out what you’re good and not good at 
• [17:43] Be honest and reach out to your network
• [18:35] having the best product is not enough
• [19:17] Finding balance in every tenet of your business
• [20:14] Where to get high-quality heated apparel

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• 100% female owned heated apparel company gobiheat.com/
• Follow Gobi Heat on LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/gobi-heat/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

One of the most highly regarded independent consultants in his industry, Kurt Elster is a Senior Ecommerce Consultant who helps Shopify merchants like Jay Leno’s Garage uncover hidden profits in their websites through his ecommerce agency Ethercycle. 

With two million downloads, Kurt is best known for hosting The Unofficial Shopify Podcast.

In This Conversation We Discuss: 

• [00:55] Intro
• [01:55] Compare platform to Shopify before migrating
• [02:51] Figure out why you want to migrate
• [03:45] New things acquired after migrating to Shopify
• [04:44] Migrating helps you reconsider and review things
• [05:26] Maximize migration & explore change opportunities
• [06:40] Prioritize customer service over minor details
• [08:42] Migration is doable, but never easy
• [10:38] Navigating Shopify data migration
• [12:37] The impact of design on migrating
• [14:26] Map out key considerations when migrating
• [16:21] Embrace change to get better results
• [17:21] Keep up and learn new tools and techniques
• [18:28] Make learning easier with efficient solutions
• [19:23] Overcome fear with secure data migration
• [22:19] Streamline unusual Shopify migration
• [24:54] The importance of thorough sample checks
• [25:23] Challenges in subscription & internationalization
• [26:25] Addressing backend processes 
• [27:10] Navage Nose Cleaner’s Shopify migration story
• [28:42] Wheel Wiz’s Shopify migration story
• [29:37] Realities & considerations of a rush migration
• [30:45] Adams Polishes’ migration story
• [31:47] Migration as a line item in a project
• [32:35] Modern Sprout's migration story
• [33:32] WordPress freedom VS Shopify constraints
• [34:43] Corresponding tasks & results of blogging
• [36:10] Shopify’s unique ecosystem advantages
• [38:46] Telltale signs that it’s time to move to Shopify
• [39:27] Migrating during redesign is the key
• [40:09] Leverage Shopify features to implement discounts
• [41:09] Learn more about Kurt Elster

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Ecommerce consultancy for Shopify merchants ethercycle.com/
• Follow Kurt Elster linkedin.com/in/kurtelster/
• Subscribe to Kurt Elster’s newsletter kurtelster.com/
• Listen to Kurt Elster’s podcast unofficialshopifypodcast.com/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Lucas Cao is the President and CEO of Squid Industries, an American manufacturing company with a focus on the butterfly knife and trainer industry.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:49] Intro
• [01:48] Getting interested with the idea of balisong
• [03:00] Becoming a collector & joining the community
• [03:57] Seeing the barriers for interested newcomers
• [04:44] Trying to make a balisong trainer
• [05:37] Discovering the popularity of balisong
• [06:30] Testing the waters and the success rate
• [07:37] Gaining traction bit by bit
• [09:03] Planning things ahead and investing on manpower
• [10:27] Running the business remotely
• [11:15] Purchasing their first manufacturing equipment
• [12:29] Continuing the business full time
• [13:09] Vertical integration and quality control
• [13:53] An unexpected success in hindsight
• [14:32] The meticulous process of picking a brand name
• [17:26] Investing on passion and in the community
• [18:34] The goal is to make the best product possible
• [20:05] Sporadic growth, full of highs and lows
• [21:26] A shift on the velocity of production
• [22:18] Leveraging the resources available to you
• [22:52] Episode sponsors
• [26:17] The challenge in manufacturing and prototyping
• [27:46] The importance of versatility
• [28:50] Maximizing influencer marketing
• [30:20] Standing out from the competition
• [30:54] Trying different avenues of advertising
• [31:39] Effectively conveying your idea to manufacturers
• [34:05] Talk to manufacturers with different processes
• [35:14] Where to find Squid Industries Co.

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• High performance and community-driven balisongs squidindustries.co/  
• Follow Lucas Cao linkedin.com/in/lucas-cao-6a3412b1/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Take your retail business to the next level today https://shopify.com/honest
  Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period
• Schedule your free consultation with a Sendlane expert sendlane.com/honest

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Ryan and Ashley Reynolds are owners of a high 7 figure subscription and e immerse brand that is embracing tactile analog planning in the digital age. 

Ashley founded the business in 2015 and the two have operated the business together ever since.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:49] Intro
• [01:30] Channeling inner entrepreneurial qualities
• [02:13] Entrepreneurship starts from a place of need
• [03:31] Stumbling upon the right community
• [04:00] How Cloth and Paper’s first design came to life 
• [04:49] The shift from personal endeavor to business
• [06:11] Focusing on community engagement
• [07:08] Printing the first products by hand
• [08:16] Growing the business around the community
• [09:14] Learning that customers don’t want other products
• [10:21] Subscription box as a way to liquidate inventory
• [11:08] Episode sponsors
• [14:32] Using an easy subscription platform
• [15:15] Switching to a more robust app 
• [16:21] Maintaining organic growth for 3 years
• [16:53] Tapping into other marketing efforts
• [17:21] Knowing what your customers want at certain times
• [17:52] Leveraging Meta and Google Ads
• [18:16] Fail fast, pivot, and move forward
• [18:51] Hiring employees for tasks you’re not good at
• [19:28] Finding out where your skills best fit 
• [20:03] Keep a lean business for as long as possible
• [21:01] How co-founders should work side by side
• [22:34] Invest in people’s talents and potential growth
• [23:32] Bring in skills that you don't have at a C level
• [24:15] Where to get aesthetic planning tools

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Luxury aesthetic stationery and planners clothandpaper.com/
• Follow Ashley Reynolds linkedin.com/in/ashley-r-a52bb9154/
• Follow Ryan Reynolds https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnr7h/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts https://electriceye.io/connect
• Take your retail business to the next level today https://shopify.com/honest
  Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period
• Schedule your free consultation with a Sendlane expert https://sendlane.com/honest

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Gavin first founded Disco Labs, an agency that specializes in custom solutions for the world's biggest brands. With the sole focus of deep platform knowledge and ecosystem leadership, Disco Labs is the global partner of choice for complex projects involving Shopify. 

In addition to working with startups, scale-ups, and large enterprises, Disco Labs has released numerous open-source projects, and written detailed courses teaching others how to successfully build custom and public applications on Shopify. 

From Disco Labs came Submarine. After over a decade working with leading ecommerce merchants and solving complex challenges for them, we saw the need for better building blocks for merchants, agencies and developers when it comes to customer experiences that go beyond the transactional. 

Originally built as an internal tool to deliver those experiences, Submarine’s now a constantly-evolving platform accessible to all and tasked with making innovative commerce experiences possible for the world’s leading brands. 

Gavin is also the author of The Definitive Guide to Shopify Themes, a slew of popular Shopify frameworks like Bootstrap for Shopify and Cart.js, and numerous articles for publications like net magazine. 

He can often be seen popping up on Shopify podcasts and blogs across the internet, or in person speaking at meetups and conferences around the world.

In This Conversation We Discuss: 

• [00:49] Intro
• [01:14] Start of the journey on the Shopify ecosystem
• [02:54] Witnessing the evolution of Shopify
• [03:46] The transition from freelancing to running an agency
• [04:45] Being a niche in the early years of Shopify
• [05:55] Agencies aren’t all one size
• [07:18] The contrast between functions and specializations
• [08:24] Custom apps require specific skill sets
• [09:29] New functions & extensions on Shopify products
• [10:16] A platform built for customization requests 
• [11:29] Visible capabilities get people’s attention
• [12:01] Flexibility & accessibility for all merchants
• [12:56] The transition from an agency to a product
• [14:04] Challenges in running two different businesses
• [14:34] The defining moment that motivated the shift
• [15:09] Deciding what’s the top priority
• [16:41] Accepting suggestions from the audience
• [17:55] Seeing your hard work paying off
• [19:07] Shoehorning your business is a sign you need help
• [20:25] Submarine’s approach to different business needs
• [21:06] What Submarine has to offer
• [22:02] The cost of trying to do things on your own
• [22:39] Managing overly complex customization requests
• [23:47] Keeping it simple and applying flexibility
• [25:10] How Submarine can help your business

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• Flexible commerce that connects with customers getsubmarine.com/
• Follow Gavin Ballard linkedin.com/in/gavinballard/

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Russ is a repeat startup founder with a consistent track record of getting companies from zero to 8 figures+ of revenue. He’s previously on the founding team at Hello Bello. 

Mike is an entrepreneur and angel investor with 10+ years experience in consumer tech and products. He’s previously a founder of PRNCPLS, Co-Founder of Cameo (acquired by Vimeo), Partner at Parlor Coffee. 

Freestyle's diapers and wipes are sold at over 1000 grocery stores around the US, including at all Whole Foods locations nationwide. See their latest designs at www dot freestyle dot world.

In This Conversation We Discuss:

• [00:48] Intro
• [01:31] Connecting with your potential co-founder
• [02:31] Establishing what differentiates you from the rest
• [03:11] Using an organic ingredient as a main component
• [03:58] The balance between co-founders & their skill sets
• [05:48] Delegation and stepping into each other’s shoes
• [07:13] Unique challenges of running a diaper brand
• [08:40] Validating the idea through market research
• [09:14] Run ambitious tests to try out if the idea works
• [10:06] Episode sponsors
• [15:13] Dedicating a budget and a strategy
• [16:20] The ideation behind building a prototype
• [17:19] Keeping the capital intact through fundraising
• [18:17] Timeline: from inception to the official launch
• [19:12] Using relevant influencers to spread the word
• [19:42] Launching limited edition merch and accessories
• [20:21] The stereotyped story of becoming a dad
• [21:05] The inspiring story Freestyle wants to deliver
• [21:58] Collaborating with the community
• [23:05] Allocating budget to re-engage audiences
• [23:38] Ensuring a seamless retail experience
• [24:12] Having multiple touch points for wider reach
• [24:44] The secret to a successful D2C business
• [25:46] Where to get high-performance diaper & wipes

Resources:

• Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on Youtube
• High-performing diapers for parents and for the planet freestyle.world/
• Follow Guest Russ Wallace linkedin.com/in/russwallace/
• Follow Mike Constantiner linkedin.com/in/mikeconstantiner/
• Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connect
• Take your retail business to the next level today shopify.com/honest
  Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period
• Schedule your free consultation with a Sendlane expert sendlane.com/honest

If you’re enjoying the show, we’d love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!