
ASOM Pod
Business og økonomiWelcome to the ASOM Pod - the only video first eCommerce podcast that offers four different unique perspectives. A(gency) S(aaS) O(perator) M(arketer). Join Jimmy Kim (CIO and founder of Sendlane) and John Roman (CEO and co-founder of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO & Co-Founder of Praella) and Bryan MacDonald (Director of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) as they provide a holistic view of the DTC, eCommerce, or retail by sharing our perspectives. Whether you're looking to grow your online store, optimize your marketing efforts, or enhance your overall e-commerce strategy, ASOM has you covered.
Siste episoder av ASOM Pod podcast
- EP73: From founder to employee - learnings of an exited founder: ft. Kevin of Beachly (00:49:15)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Director of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) sit down with Kevin Tighe, Founder & former CEO of Beachly and now VP of Growth at BUBS Naturals.Kevin gets real about the transition from founder to employee, what it felt like to sell the company he built, and how he rebuilt his identity on the other side. The crew digs into leadership, delegation, the subscription model, and what today’s e-commerce landscape demands from operators.What you’ll learn:How Kevin built and scaled Beachly and what led to its acquisition.The emotional + operational realities of selling your business.How to transition from CEO to employee without losing your edge.Why delegation and team empowerment unlock real growth.The current state of subscription eCommerce (and what’s changing fast).How Kevin is driving growth today at BUBS Naturals.If you’re a founder, operator, or just curious what the “after” looks like post-exit, this one hits home._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Kintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comParticl — the competitive intelligence platform built for eCommerce brands. Track real sales, inventory, and pricing across thousands of products to see what’s selling, who’s winning, and where to move next. Get started at https://www.particl.com/Subscribe at https://asompod.com___00:00 Teaser Trailer00:39 Welcome to the ASOM Pod04:25 Kevin Tighe’s Journey: From Founder to Employee04:53 The Birth and Growth of Beachly Brands07:46 Challenges and Successes in the Subscription Box Model16:04 The Acquisition Journey and Transition to Employee22:15 Discussing the Acquisition Details22:30 Transitioning to a New Market22:47 Joining BUBS Naturals24:44 Reflecting on Entrepreneurial Challenges28:48 The Importance of Delegation31:13 The Emotional Side of Selling a Business34:15 Current Role and Team Dynamics35:55 Future Plans and Reflections48:07 Closing Thoughts and Outro___Follow us on:X: https://x.com/TheAsomPodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theasompodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theasompodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theasompod/Contact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP72: Meta’s First AI Engineer Talks AI ft. Pujun Bhatnagar (00:56:54)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Director of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) sit down with Pujun Bhatnagar - one of Meta’s first AI engineers and now Co-Founder & CEO of Kintsugi.They unpack where AI is today, where it is headed, and how brands and governments should prepare. Pujun shares his path from Stanford to Meta, how AI moved from experimentation to commercialization, and why we are still only scratching the surface of what data-driven intelligence can do.What you’ll learn:* Why AI is still early and what that means for innovation.* How AI commercialized and where it is going next.* Lessons from building foundational systems at Facebook.* How Kintsugi is reinventing sales tax and compliance.* AGI and robotics timelines and implications.* Why smart policy and critical thinking will guide progress.* Common misconceptions about AI and real-world impacts.* How quantum computing accelerates what is possible.* How AI may transform healthcare, policy, and daily life.* Why R&D investment is critical to a safe future.Whether you are building tech, running a brand, or simply curious where AI is going, this episode delivers a grounded look at the forces shaping our future and the opportunities ahead.Connect with PujunLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pujun/X: https://x.com/pujun_aiExplore Kintsugihttps://www.TryKintsugi.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kintsugi-ai/X: https://x.com/kintsugifi_____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Kintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comParticl — the competitive intelligence platform built for eCommerce brands. Track real sales, inventory, and pricing across thousands of products to see what’s selling, who’s winning, and where to move next. Get started at https://www.particl.com/Subscribe at https://asompod.com___00:00 Teaser Trailer00:48 Meet the Hosts01:02 Special Guest Intro: AI Expert03:30 Guest Background: From Stanford to Facebook09:49 AI in Business: Sales Tax Automation11:09 The Evolution and Impact of AI16:29 The Future of AI and Society29:55 The Infancy of Mankind and Critical Thinking30:45 The Real Users of Facebook32:13 The Future of AGI and Robotics38:53 Quantum Computing and AI Advancements40:12 The Role of AI in Healthcare and Policy Decisions42:01 The Importance of R&D and Intelligent Policies51:57 The Future of Sales Tax and Compliance Infrastructure54:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts___Follow us on:X: https://x.com/TheAsomPodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theasompodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theasompodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theasompod/Contact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- Email isn’t dead.. you’re just doing it wrong ft. Rytis Lauris - EP71 (00:55:00)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Director of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) dig into the real state of email marketing in 2025 and why it continues to be one of the highest-ROI channels in eCommerce.Joining the crew is special guest Rytis Lauris, CoFounder and CEO of Omnisend, who breaks down the numbers behind email performance and why, despite the headlines, email is very much alive and driving predictable revenue for brands.What you’ll learn in this episode:- Why email marketing still outperforms every “email is dead” narrative.- The automated flows responsible for 87% of automated email revenue (and how to optimize them).- How contextual segmentation + personalized journeys improve conversion and retention.- Where AI meaningfully enhances strategy vs. where humans still win.- Tactical tips for improving welcome, cart, browse, post-purchase, and subscription flows.- How brands are weaving SMS + email together for smarter lifecycle marketing.- Common customer experience pitfalls and how to fix them.- Small tweaks that lead to big wins in subscription + upsell strategy.Whether you’re running a brand, agency, or SaaS platform, this episode is your tactical guide to leveling up your lifecycle marketing, unlocking more revenue, and engaging customers in smarter, more automated ways._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Kintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comParticl — the competitive intelligence platform built for eCommerce brands. Track real sales, inventory, and pricing across thousands of products to see what’s selling, who’s winning, and where to move next. Get started at https://www.particl.com/Subscribe to the pod at https://asompod.com___00:00 Teaser Trailer02:21 Special Guest Introduction05:26 Email Marketing Insights09:07 The Power of Automated Emails12:21 Advanced Email Strategies25:06 Early Stage Email Automation Tips27:42 Customer Experience Issues28:01 Subscription Email Tweaks29:42 Upsell Opportunities30:32 BattlBox Subscription Feedback31:10 NPS and Customer Engagement32:10 Marketing Automation Tips44:11 AI in Marketing Automation51:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts___Follow Jimmy Kim at:X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykimLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykimTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at:X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:aX: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetip
- EP70: Black Friday & Cyber Monday 2025: Strategy, Growth, and Execution (00:49:36)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Director of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) dive into how top DTC and SaaS leaders are preparing for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025 and what strategies actually move the needle when it comes to revenue, retention, and cash flow.What you’ll learn in this episode:How to maximize customer lifetime value (LTV) during BFCM.Why customizable bundles and bulk box builders drive repeat purchases.The phased approach to running smooth and profitable promotions.When and how to convert monthly subscribers to annual plans for better cash flow.The psychology behind doorbusters, free shipping, and curated holiday boxes.How leading eCommerce teams are preparing their operations, messaging, and offers for 2025.Whether you’re leading a scaling SaaS or growing a DTC brand, this episode is your Black Friday 2025 Playbook, straight from operators who’ve lived it._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Kintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comParticl — the competitive intelligence platform built for eCommerce brands. Track real sales, inventory, and pricing across thousands of products to see what’s selling, who’s winning, and where to move next. Get started at https://www.particl.com/Subscribe at https://asompod.com___00:00 Teaser Trailer01:17 Black Friday Cyber Monday Strategies05:34 Introducing the Bulk Box Idea09:56 Preparing for Black Friday Launch11:29 Customer Feedback and Future Plans21:50 Growth Packages and Subscription Models25:39 Raw Materials and Paid Campaigns26:43 BattlBox Black Friday Strategy28:16 Phase Zero: Early Promotions29:04 Phase One: Pre-Black Friday Offers30:57 Phase Two: Black Friday and Cyber Monday32:51 Phase Three: Holiday Mystery Boxes38:45 Subscription Models and Customer Loyalty43:46 Optimizing Cash Flow and Tax Benefits49:01 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP69: From Monastery Life to The Steve Jobs of Leather: Curtis Matsko of Portland Leather Goods (01:07:00)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer & Commerce Roundtable, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) sit down with Curtis Masco, Founder and CEO of Portland Leather Goods, for one of the most raw and inspiring founder stories you’ll hear. From living in a Zen monastery to building one of North America’s largest leather manufacturing operations, Curtis shares how continuous reinvention became his blueprint for success.He opens up about overcoming alcoholism, self-funding every stage of growth, and why he believes you have to “kill 90% of what got you to your first million” to reach the next level.What you’ll learn in this episode:- How to reinvent your business every year to stay ahead.- The philosophy behind building and rebuilding momentum.- Lessons from scaling from art festivals to Etsy to Shopify.- Why self-funding beats chasing investors (and how he did it).- How Curtis overcame personal struggles to unlock his potential.- The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.- Why belief, integrity, and confidence matter more than capital.- The future of craftsmanship, eCommerce, and personal growth.Whether you’re in the grind of your first startup or looking for the spark to level up again, this episode is proof that reinvention isn’t just possible.. it’s powerful.Follow Curtis on YouTube → youtube.com/@CurtisMatsko for more unfiltered business lessons, founder stories, and behind-the-scenes of Portland Leather GoodsBig shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possibleOmnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Kintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com00:00 Teaser Trailer00:40 Welcome to the ASOM Pod02:16 Special Guest Introduction: Curtis Masco of Portland Leather Goods05:02 Curtis Masco's Early Life and Zen Monastery Experience08:06 The Dot-Com Crash and Starting Over10:21 Building Portland Leather Goods: Growth and Sobriety12:12 The Power of Belief and Manifestation16:48 Investing in Founders and Giving Back21:26 The Importance of Self-Belief and Surrounding Yourself with the Right People35:17 The Importance of Integrity, Motivation, and Intelligence36:47 Lessons from Business Failures and Successes37:56 Reinventing Your Business Every Year39:36 From Art Festivals to eCommerce Success42:11 Navigating Manufacturing Challenges During COVID43:25 The Future of Business and Personal Growth01:02:07 The Power of Networking and Social Media01:06:11 Closing Remarks and Final ThoughtsContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP68: Hot or Not eCom Edition: Live Shopping, Sustainability, Influencers, and More (00:30:01)
In this live episode from Commerce Roundtable San Diego, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) kick things off with a round of “Hot or Not: eCom Edition” before diving into the biggest debates in DTC. They tackle owning vs. renting customers, sustainability vs. convenience, and the evolving world of influencers, affiliates, and creator-driven content, and live shopping.The conversation gets real about profitability, EBITDA, and smart exit strategies, all while keeping the energy high and the laughs coming (yes, including a nod to Bryan MacDonald’s self-made fan club).If you missed San Diego, this episode captures the energy, insights, and fun of the event, live from the pier._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Kintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Introduction01:04 Welcome to the ASOM Podcast01:56 Meet the Hosts03:41 Hot or Not: Ecom Edition04:27 Debate: Owning vs. Renting Customers09:48 Sustainability vs. Convenience13:14 Future of Influencers vs. Affiliates13:34 The Evolving Landscape of Influencers and Affiliates13:51 TikTok Shop: Empowering Creators14:59 Blurring Lines Between Influencers and Affiliates15:31 The Rise of Consumer-Generated Content16:51 The Future of Free Content Creation20:21 Exit Strategies in D2C22:58 The Importance of EBITDA and Unit Economics28:56 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP67: Inside Commerce Roundtable San Diego 2025: A Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Best DTC Event (00:21:48)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) take you inside the Commerce Roundtable San Diego, held at the Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier. From the packed registration line to the speaker’s lounge with ocean views, they take you along for the ride, chatting with founders, operators, and marketers who make this industry tick.This isn’t your average, dull conference. Think: food trucks on the pier, vacation giveaways, and conversations with heavy-hitters. Along the way, the crew dives into hot topics like AI, live selling, and what’s next in eCommerce growth all while capturing the buzz and camaraderie that make Commerce Roundtable the go-to event for DTC brands.Whether you missed San Diego or just want a front-row seat to the action, this recap brings the energy, insights, and chaos (the fun kind) of Commerce Roundtable 2025 straight to you._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Kintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Welcome to Commerce Roundtable San Diego00:48 Exploring the Venue and Food Trucks01:44 Registration and Initial Impressions02:53 Behind the Scenes: Speaker's Lounge04:39 Conversations with Attendees09:19 Touring the Conference Venue10:16 Exploring the Lounge Area10:54 Raffle Excitement and Giveaways12:20 Outdoor Patio and Networking13:15 Insights from SubSummit16:02 Live Selling and AI Innovations17:26 Founder's Journey and Business Growth19:10 Event Highlights and Conclusion___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP66: The DTC Playbook to Live Shopping Success on Whatnot (00:57:59)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), unpack the growing world of live shopping with a spotlight on the Whatnot platform. John (a.k.a. the Android Loving Survival King) shares his real-world playbook for turning Whatnot streams into a profitable and scalable sales channel. From treating live selling as entertainment to building a community that keeps coming back, the conversation blends data, strategy, and war stories from the front lines of live commerce.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why live shopping is more than sales it’s entertainment.The key operational roles every live selling team needs.How consistency and scheduling make revenue more predictable.Gamification tactics that keep audiences engaged (and spending).Lessons from testing different show formats and hiring dedicated team members.Why Whatnot can outperform TikTok Shop in both engagement and growth.The importance of leveraging existing communities while expanding to new ones.How to scale live shopping sustainably without burning out your team.Whether you’re already experimenting with TikTok Shop or just curious about Whatnot, this episode offers actionable insights to help eCommerce and DTC brands future proof their sales strategy with live shopping._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:14 John's Presentation on Live Shopping04:23 Live Shopping Trends and Data Insights08:19 Comparing Whatnot and TikTok Shop12:15 Community Building and Engagement22:59 Roles and Strategies for Live Selling28:10 Forecastable Revenue and Show Scheduling28:49 Gamification and Audience Engagement28:56 Team Meetings and Scheduling30:54 Hiring and Team Expansion32:09 Conservative Growth Strategy34:19 Leveraging Social Media and Organic Growth36:04 New Hosts and Show Formats38:40 Channel Growth Potential43:25 Gamification Strategies46:12 Takeaways and Final Thoughts57:28 Podcast Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP65: How to Avoid the Most Expensive Mistakes First-Time eCommerce Founders Make (00:57:02)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) break down the most expensive mistakes first-time founders make when trying to take their eCommerce dreams from “side hustle” to scalable business. From the messy realities of handling fulfillment yourself (yes, shipping nightmares are real) to the dangers of over-ordering inventory that ends up sitting in your garage, they share the hard-earned lessons most entrepreneurs wish they’d heard sooner.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why handling fulfillment wrong is the fastest way to stall growth.How to avoid the cash-flow killer of over-ordering inventory.When (and when not) to think about retail.The numbers you must know before you scale.The hiring mistakes that drain time, money, and morale.Why compliance and legal issues can’t be an afterthought.The value of a strong network and mentors to keep you sane.How to stay resilient when resistance is at its highest.Whether you’re sketching your first product idea on a napkin or already wrestling with suppliers, this episode is a must listen._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:43 Intro to The ASOM Pod06:56 Debating Gary Vee’s Influence and Strategy16:16 Four Pillars of a Successful eCommerce Business27:06 Pre-Launch Strategies27:27 Executing the Launch28:40 Building Hype and Engagement29:37 Leveraging Community and Affiliates32:47 Soft Launch and Testing42:32 Technical Stack Essentials48:04 Post-Launch Optimization51:24 Scaling Your Business57:00 Final Advice and Conclusion___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP64: The Four Pillars of a Successful eCommerce Business: How to Launch, Scale, and Win (00:58:10)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) tackle the four pillars of a successful eCommerce business, but not in the boring, “MBA textbook” way. They dive into the messy, real-life side of launching and scaling a brand: from product differentiation (why your “unique” product probably isn’t unique enough) to launch strategies that actually build hype, not crickets. Along the way, they poke fun at industry tropes, debate Gary Vee’s influence, and share war stories from scaling in the trenches. This episode is packed with plenty of “wish I knew that sooner” insights.What you’ll learn in this episode:The Four Pillars that separate thriving eCom brands from forgettable ones.How to prep for launch without overthinking yourself into paralysis.Why community and affiliates are your unfair advantage.The non-negotiables for your first tech stack (and what can wait).How to spot when it’s time to optimize, scale, or pivot.Why over communication beats silence every time during challenges.Whether you’re dreaming up your first product or already pulling late nights keeping a store alive, this episode gives you the no-BS playbook for launching strong and scaling smart._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:43 Intro to The ASOM Pod06:56 Debating Gary Vee’s Influence and Strategy16:16 Four Pillars of a Successful eCommerce Business27:06 Pre-Launch Strategies27:27 Executing the Launch28:40 Building Hype and Engagement29:37 Leveraging Community and Affiliates32:47 Soft Launch and Testing42:32 Technical Stack Essentials48:04 Post-Launch Optimization51:24 Scaling Your Business57:00 Final Advice and Conclusion___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP63: COGS - The Secret Fuel Behind Explosive DTC Growth (01:09:05)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane) and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) sit down with Will Nitze, CEO of IQ Bar, to unpack how he scaled from a scrappy eCommerce start-up to landing on shelves at major retailers. Will gets real about the limits of staying DTC-only, the strategic bets that helped IQ Bar break into brick-and-mortar, and why obsessing over COGS and operations is just as important as marketing. From Harvard neuroscience to entrepreneurship, his journey is packed with insights on product development, retail partnerships, and the messy reality of scaling in food and beverage.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why DTC is powerful but not always enough to scale.How Amazon can be a stepping stone to retail deals.The critical role of COGS and operational efficiency in growth.Lessons from landing CVS and navigating retail complexities.The future of IQ Bar with new product lines in hydration and coffee.Whether you’re building your first CPG brand or plotting your move from online to in store, this episode gives you the inside scoop on growth, grit, and the real costs of scaling._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:30 Meet Will Nitze: From Neuroscience to DTC06:53 The Birth of IQ Bar10:50 Challenges in Food and Beverage Industry19:28 Navigating Product Trends and Market Fit22:13 Funding and Growth Strategies26:19 Outsourcing and Company Structure30:53 Early Distribution and Product Strategy35:14 Securing a Major Retail Deal36:15 Challenges of Scaling Production37:03 Lessons from Retail Experience38:41 eCommerce vs. Retail41:21 Importance of Cost Optimization45:21 Innovations in Packaging and Fulfillment48:01 The Role of Operations in Marketing51:26 Navigating the Convenience Store Market54:19 Future Growth and Expansion Plans01:02:55 Challenges of the Convenience Store Market01:07:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP62: ASOM Updates - Behind the Scenes of Business and Life (01:25:56)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) get real about what it actually takes to scale in eCommerce and SaaS. Spoiler: it’s not cranking out products. The crew digs into how AI is cutting out busywork, the chaos (and occasional magic) of pulling off huge events, and why keeping investors in the loop builds way stronger partnerships. On top of that, you’ll hear candid updates on team shakeups, business pivots, and the not-so-glamorous restructures that come with chasing big growth.What you’ll learn in this episode:How AI is reshaping agency workflows, productivity, and customer engagement.The hidden complexities (and lessons) of event management at scale.Key takeaways from navigating investment relationships and restructures.How personal business pivots translate into broader market lessons.Why communication, transparency, and adaptability matter more than ever when scaling.Whether you’re launching your first brand, reshaping an agency, or chasing the next big investment play, this episode drops battle tested lessons on growth, grit, and why distribution wins every time._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer04:59 John's Whatnot Experience09:14 Bryan's SuperZoo Insights16:18 Amer's App Development Pivot20:44 Jimmy's Year in Review28:02 John's Battle Games Challenge34:49 Bryan's Media Spend Strategy40:17 Amer's AI Initiatives44:13 Autonomous Agents and Their Limitations47:30 The Misconceptions About AI50:13 Event Management Insights01:06:09 Investment Reflections and Lessons01:14:18 Restructuring for Growth01:18:11 The Power of Distribution___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP61: Want Free Traffic? Build an eCommerce Content Strategy That Works Without Ads (01:03:35)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) break down the real playbook for building a content strategy that drives free organic traffic to your eCommerce business without relying on ads. From posting consistently to tapping into the viral potential of short-form video, they share how brands are turning content into their most powerful growth engine.The conversation gets into the messy balance of organic vs. paid, why founder led content matters, and how to measure ROI without losing your mind. You’ll hear when to pivot if your strategy isn’t working, the dangers of chasing low-intent traffic, and why constant experimentation is the only way forward in today’s content landscape.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why storytelling is the secret sauce to building a brand people actually care about.How to balance organic and paid traffic for long-term growth.The rise of short-form video (and when long-form makes a comeback).Tips to create a repeatable content workflow that doesn’t burn you out.How to measure ROI and know when your content strategy isn’t working.Common mistakes eCommerce brands make with content (and how to avoid them).Whether you’re a scrappy founder or a growing brand, this episode is packed with tactical advice, real world lessons, and inspiration to build an eCommerce content engine that brings in free traffic while building long term loyalty._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:19 Intro to The ASOM Pod05:44 Organic vs Paid Traffic Strategies09:19 The Power of Content Marketing12:55 Building a Brand Story18:00 Content Creation Tips and Strategies29:46 Leveraging Different Content Forms31:24 The Pitfalls of Low-Intent Blog Traffic32:10 SEO Strategy: Focus on Core Pages First34:05 The Rise of Short-Form Video Content35:17 Surprising Content Formats and Their Effectiveness36:09 The Power of Reddit for SEO37:11 Creating Content That Helps Users47:33 Measuring ROI and Identifying Effective Content50:23 Adapting to Social Media Trends57:04 The Shift to Long-Form Content on TikTok01:01:04 Common Mistakes in eCommerce Content Strategy___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!
- EP60: The Queen of Pet eCommerce: Redefining the Industry Through Innovation (00:59:03)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane) and Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella) chat with Natalie Yung, founder of Doggielawn and Bark Potty to unpack her 15-year rollercoaster from flops to full on success in the pet world. From spotting a quirky pain point and turning it into a subscription business, to scaling without taking a single VC check, Natalie spills the real story behind building a profitable, passion-fueled empire.You’ll hear about the messy middle like operational headaches, testing ideas on the cheap, and building a workplace people actually love showing up to. Natalie also gets candid about giving back to shelters, creating products that change life for pet owners with special needs, and teaming up with her husband as a strategic partner. This is a real look at the wins, losses, and lessons of staying self funded and mission driven.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why keeping your day job while testing ideas might be your smartest early move.Strategies to manage multiple brands without losing focus.How to build a supportive team culture that boosts retention and growth.Ways to balance passion projects with profitability and scalability.How self-funding can mean more freedom and far fewer headaches than chasing VC money.If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur (or just a sucker for a good dog story), this episode is loaded with practical advice, unfiltered founder wisdom, and inspiration to build something that lasts._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:01 Welcome to the ASOM Pod02:41 Meet Natalie Yung: Serial Entrepreneur03:18 The Birth of DoggyLawn06:34 Embracing Failure and Learning from It12:05 Challenges and Strategies in Entrepreneurship14:28 Subscription Model Success17:11 Managing Multiple Ventures25:58 Customer Feedback and Business Growth27:53 Team Dynamics and Employee Retention29:11 Building a Village: Management Style and Trust30:51 Company Structure and Team Dynamics32:16 Balancing Multiple Brands and Projects32:52 Employee Growth and Career Path35:10 Leadership and Conflict Management38:22 Partnerships and Personal Dynamics50:31 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs53:01 Future Plans and Concluding Thought___Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!
- EP59: What Meta Won’t Tell You - The eCommerce Metrics Founders Should Actually Track (01:09:29)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), formally Founder of Sendlane) and Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella) chat with Jordan, a seasoned eCommerce entrepreneur and advisor behind brands like KitNipBox, Paint Plot, and Salvit Advisors. From resisting shiny objects to choosing the right channels, this convo is packed with real talk on what it actually takes to scale profitably without losing your mind (or your margins). Forget vanity plays—this is a crash course in clarity, focus, and founder resilience.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why focusing on one or two marketing channels is key before scaling.How to make smarter decisions by understanding CPA, contribution margin, and engagement rates.What most founders get wrong about incrementality and testing.How to use AI and human intuition to drive growth.The role of mission-driven decision making in long term success.Insights into a Reddit partnership and strategic brand plays.Why having a trustworthy team might be your best growth lever.If you're building, scaling, or advising in eCommerce, this episode is loaded with takeaways to help you do it better and with a lot more clarity._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:14 Welcome to the ASOM Pod04:13 The Journey of KitNipBox10:46 The Reddit Partnership14:27 Managing Multiple Businesses22:12 The Mission-Driven Approach26:42 Understanding Data in eCommerce34:24 Understanding Incrementality35:08 AB Testing and Media Spend40:41 Customer Engagement and Repurchase Rates43:44 Scaling and Contribution Margin51:52 Leveraging AI and Automation55:25 Omnichannel Strategies and Profitability01:01:05 Final Thoughts and Takeaways_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP58: The Evolution of a 32-Year American Manufacturer: The Story of TigerTough (01:01:40)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane) and Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella)sit down down with Sheldon Zitzmann from TigerTough, a Minnesota–based company that makes ultra-durable seat covers for hard-working vehicles and even harder-working people. From humble beginnings in 1993 to a full-on brand transformation in 2016, Sheldon shares how Tiger Tough went from sewing custom interiors to going all-in on rugged, U.S.-made seat protection.Forget chasing trends, this is a story about choosing focus, building in the U.S., and showing up for the blue-collar customer with killer products and content.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why TigerTough ditched custom work to go all-in on branded products.The real challenges of keeping manufacturing in the U.S.How they’ve built trust with fleets and direct-to-consumer buyers.The power of niche content (torture tests, anyone?) in driving sales.How a small-town mindset fuels smart decisions and big moves.Why marketing to blue-collar America takes authenticity, not fluff.The value of resilience, speed, and customer obsession in brand building.If you’re into building niche, no nonsense products that people rely on every day this one’s for you._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer00:50 Intro to The ASOM Pod 01:24 Small Town Life in Vesta, Minnesota 04:38 The Origin of TigerTough 06:11 The Evolution of the Business 13:23 Challenges and Innovations in Manufacturing 20:54 Marketing and Sales Strategies 28:43 Exploring Product Durability and Expansion 29:12 Venturing Beyond Seat Covers 32:16 Manufacturing in the USA 36:14 Challenges and Rewards of Domestic Production 38:26 Sales Strategies and Market Penetration 48:25 Marketing and Content Creation 48:54 Reflections and Future Plans 58:15 Final Thoughts and Advice_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at:a X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP57: From Navy Vet to Burned-Out CEO: Scaling from $0 to $50M in 2 Years (01:01:23)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts John Roman (CEO of BattlBox) and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) sit down with Ryan Hogan, founder of Hunt A Killer and CEO of Talent Harbor for a no BS conversation about what it really takes to build a community-first DTC brand. From failed mud runs to million-dollar subscription boxes, Hogan breaks down the wins, pivots, and painful lessons that shaped his journey.What you’ll learn in this episode:How a failed race sparked a subscription box empire.Why Hunt A Killer turned checkout into a community moment.The brand-building strategy that drove exponential growth.Navigating rising CAC and adapting to a post-tracking world.Why multiple sales channels saved the business.Behind the scenes of raising capital and choosing the right partners.How to restructure leadership and scale without burning out.This one’s packed with real stories and tactical gems for anyone building a brand people rally behind. _____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com
- EP56: How to Validate Your eCommerce Product Idea Without Spending a Dime (00:53:53)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) get into how today’s best founders validate ideas fast and effectively without relying on biased feedback from friends or family. Whether you're pre-launch or post-launch, this episode will help you stay sharp, curious, and customer-first.What you’ll learn in this episode:Validate or Vaporize: Why skipping validation is the fastest route to building a product no one buys.Google Knows Best: How to use Google Trends, search volume, and keyword data to back up your gut feeling.Talk to Strangers: Why your inner circle isn’t the best place to source honest feedback (and who is).Smoke 'Em if You Got 'Em: How to run smoke tests and pre-sell to gauge real market demand.Social Listening 101: The underrated art of eavesdropping on the internet to spot pain points and product gaps.Validation Never Ends: How to keep testing, learning, and iterating, even after launch.This episode is packed with practical advice, real-life examples, and a few spicy takes on the myths of overnight success. If you’ve ever said “I think people want this,” this one’s for you._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer03:06 Intro to the ASOM Pod06:30 Deep Dive into Product Validation15:49 Competitive Research and Market Analysis24:57 Leveraging Social Media for Product Research26:09 Distinguishing Trends from Sustainable Markets27:31 The Rise and Fall of Trend-Based Businesses29:01 Using Data and Tools for Market Analysis32:49 The Importance of Social Listening40:45 Pre-Selling and Validating New Products51:10 Common Mistakes in Product Validation52:42 Final Thoughts _____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP55 - How to Get Your First 1,000 eCommerce Customers Organically (00:59:41)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) break down what it really takes to acquire your first 1,000 eCommerce customers—organically. No paid ads. No magic bullets. Just strategy, consistency, and a whole lot of community building.What you’ll learn in this episode:ICP or Bust: Why understanding your Ideal Customer Profile is the foundation of all successful growth.Post with Purpose: How consistent, authentic social content builds trust and traffic over time.Communities Convert: How Reddit threads, Facebook groups, and micro-influencer collabs can turn browsers into buyers.Give to Get: The smart way to run giveaways and referral programs that actually generate leads—not just freebie hunters.Play the Long Game: How to avoid burnout and keep the growth engine running once early traction slows.Fear of the Feed: Overcoming hesitation around posting and engaging with your audience on social.This episode delivers actionable strategies, personal stories, and the honest truth about what it takes to build an eCommerce brand—one customer at a time._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer03:32 Intro to the ASOM Pod06:14 Identifying and Understanding Your Ideal Customer15:45 Leveraging Social Media for Organic Growth20:16 The Importance of Authenticity and Consistency in Social Media24:14 The Role of Social Media in Consumer Validation28:46 The Importance of Social Media Presence29:51 Building Community Through Social Media31:51 Turning Community Members into Paying Customers41:45 The Role of Referrals and Giveaways50:35 Challenges and Strategies for Organic Growth54:13 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP54: How to Launch a New eCommerce Product in 30 Days on a Budget (01:03:38)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) dive into one of the biggest challenges for early-stage founders: How to validate and launch a new product in just 30 days—with a limited budget and no fluff.What you’ll learn in this episode:Validate Before You Create: How to test product ideas fast with real customer feedback (not just your mom’s opinion).Go Where the Buyers Are: Why platforms like TikTok Shop, eBay, and Amazon are clutch for quick market validation.Pricing That Works: The pitfalls of “gut feel” pricing—and how to set a number that drives both sales and scale.Tell the Right Story: How founder-led marketing and storytelling can unlock customer loyalty from day one.Pivot or Peace Out: The mindset shift every founder needs when it’s time to either tweak the product—or walk away.Early Wins That Matter: What month-over-month growth, referrals, and repeat purchases really tell you about your product’s future.Whether you’re launching your first product or trying to speed up your go-to-market strategy, this episode delivers the hard-won lessons and actionable tactics to go from zero to sales—fast._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/LiveRecover — Live Agents for eCommerce — Get more out of your revenue strategy with real-time SMS engagement and sales recovery for higher ROI. Learn more at https://www.LiveRecover.comKintsugi — AI that monitors, files, and optimizes sales tax for you. Eliminate your tax headaches forever. Mention ASOM for 3 months free at https://www.TryKintsugi.comSubscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer01:56 Launching a New Product in 30 Days06:28 Market Validation and Product Ideas09:02 Prank Box Case Study11:55 Marketing Strategies and Channels26:39 Pricing Strategies and Common Pitfalls31:24 Understanding Pricing Strategies32:43 The Importance of Customer Experience33:35 Validating Your Product35:22 The Role of Storytelling in Marketing38:47 Learning from Real-Life Examples43:39 Setting Realistic Goals for New Entrepreneurs44:06 When to Pivot or Quit58:49 Metrics for Early Success01:05:10 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP53: Generational Shopping Differences in eCommerce: How Gen Z, Millennials & Boomers Shop Online (01:09:25)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) dive deep into the psychology of the purchase—unpacking how different generations shop, scroll, and swipe their way through the modern DTC landscape.What you'll learn in this episode:One Strategy Does Not Fit All: Why you can’t speak to Boomers, Millennials, and Gen Z the same way—and what actually clicks for each.Gen Z = Scroll to Buy: How mobile-first design and influencer-powered marketing dominate their shopping journey.Millennial Money Moves: Why this generation still cares about aesthetics and ethics—and how brands like Blue Bottle win their wallets.The Boomer Breakdown: What older generations value most (spoiler: it’s not your TikTok dance).From Hooters to Has-Beens: A wild case study on how brands fade when they don’t adapt to cultural shifts.Multi-Gen Marketing: Smart strategies for brands looking to connect across generational lines—without diluting the message.Whether you’re building a brand for Gen Z hype or trying to win the trust of a Boomer buyer, this episode gives you the real insights and playbook to make it work._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Alia - An app that is revolutionizing how brands turn website visitors into loyal customers. With some of the highest performing pop ups in eCommerce, Alia is helping brands ditch traditional webforms and double down on education, personalization and conversion. We highly recommend you check out :https://www.alialearn.com/Subscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer04:06 Intro to the ASOM Pod07:30 Generational Differences in Online Shopping13:16 Influencer Impact on Younger Generations21:51 Mobile Shopping Trends Among Gen Z23:05 Brand Ethics and Sustainability31:42 Older Generations' Shopping Preferences33:10 Generational Differences in Medical and Nutritional Advice34:13 Customer Support Preferences Across Generations35:13 The Impact of Generational Buying Behaviors on Business36:58 Exploring Boomer Brands: Walgreens and CVS39:14 Millennial Brands: The Rise of Blue Bottle Coffee41:32 Gen Z Brands: Chamberlain Coffee and Tabs Chocolate44:06 Marketing Strategies for Multi-Generational Brands01:01:16 A Case Study in Generational Shifts01:08:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP52: eCom Hot or Not: Retail, Organic Growth, Live Shopping and Profits - Live from SubSummit 2025 (00:45:37)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) come in hot—unpacking what’s actually working in eCommerce right now… and what’s just noise.We’re talking community-building, live shopping wins (and fails), the death of boring product posts, and why chasing top-line growth without real profit is the fastest way to implode your brand.Content > Catalog: Why showing your product isn’t enough—and how entertaining, valuable content is what actually drives conversion.Community = Currency: How brands are ditching transactional mindsets and using loyal communities to power sustainable, long-term growth.Live Shopping Breakdown: What’s working, what’s not, and how to stand out in an increasingly crowded space.Beyond the Vanity Metrics: Why chasing top-line revenue can put your brand at risk—and how to build a healthier bottom line instead.Organic Growth Playbook: Real strategies from brands winning without paid ads (yes, it’s possible—and profitable).Retail Isn’t Dead… But It’s Evolving: A no-BS look at how retail fits into today’s DTC world—and where it still wins.If you’re building an eCommerce brand and want the playbook for community, content, and conversion in today’s landscape—you’ll want to hit play on this one._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Alia - An app that is revolutionizing how brands turn website visitors into loyal customers. With some of the highest performing pop ups in eCommerce, Alia is helping brands ditch traditional webforms and double down on education, personalization and conversion. We highly recommend you check out :https://www.alialearn.com/Subscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer00:23 The Importance of Community in Branding00:54 TikTok Shop and Other Sales Channels01:49 Podcast Introduction and Host Introductions04:15 Retail Discussion14:01 Community and Organic Growth21:47 The Power of Community in B2B22:17 The Importance of Organic Conversations24:31 Live Shopping: The Next Big Thing25:45 Success Stories and Strategies in Live Shopping36:19 Top Line Growth vs. Bottom Line Optimization44:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP51: Inside SubSummit 2025: A Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Biggest Subscription Event (00:24:01)
John Roman (CEO of BattlBox) and Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) take you on a boots-on-the-ground tour of SubSummit 2025 in Dallas—no boring recap slides here. From immersive booths and epic entrance setups to hosted buyer programs and jam-packed breakout sessions, they explore how the subscription industry is leveling up. Along the way, they highlight standout keynotes, behind-the-scenes convos, and some truly creative brand experiences. Whether you missed the event or just want the insider scoop, this episode captures the energy, innovation, and connections that make SubSummit the go-to for subscription-based businesses._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Alia - An app that is revolutionizing how brands turn website visitors into loyal customers. With some of the highest performing pop ups in eCommerce, Alia is helping brands ditch traditional webforms and double down on education, personalization and conversion. We highly recommend you check out :https://www.alialearn.com/Subscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Introduction00:28 Exploring the SubSummit Venue02:08 Hosted Buyer Program Overview03:00 Walking Through the Booths and Activities04:23 Special Guests and Interviews06:02 Conference Enhancements and Experiences09:34 Final Walkthrough and Observations12:03 Exploring the Event Venue12:35 Diving into the Speaker Tracks13:48 Enjoying the Event's Delicacies16:08 Checking Out the Podcast Studio19:44 A Peek into the Main Stage23:17 Wrapping Up the Event Tour_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP50: eCommerce in Economic Downturn: Strategies for Resilience (01:00:05)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) unpack how eCommerce brands can stay strong during shaky economic times. From rising acquisition costs to unpredictable consumer behavior, the crew tackles the tough conversations about what it really takes to build a resilient brand when the market turns—and what not to do, using cautionary tales.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:War Chest Wisdom: Why building financial buffers is non-negotiable—and how to start now.Knee-Jerk Reactions = Death: Why slowing down and thinking strategically will save your brand.Customer Love Is the Moat: How community and loyalty become your unfair advantage.Cut Costs, Not Corners: Smart ways to optimize without hurting long-term growth.Real Talk Book Club: The team reviews The Hard Thing About Hard Things and what it teaches about navigating hard decisions.Vendor Negotiation Playbook: Tips for renegotiating contracts and improving cash flow without burning bridges.This episode is your tactical survival guide for leading through uncertainty. If you want to future-proof your business, make smarter decisions, and turn downturns into opportunity—don’t miss this one._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Alia - An app that is revolutionizing how brands turn website visitors into loyal customers. With some of the highest performing pop ups in eCommerce, Alia is helping brands ditch traditional webforms and double down on education, personalization and conversion. We highly recommend you check out :https://www.alialearn.com/Subscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer02:06 Intro to The ASOM Pod04:43 Economic Downturn Strategies13:16 Consumer Sentiment and Business Adjustments27:44 Cautionary Tales: Learning from Mistakes31:20 Debunking the Quickster Story31:37 The Downfall of J. Crew33:42 Omas Pride and the Missed Opportunity37:24 Understanding the Mandela Effect38:49 Biggest Mistakes Business Owners Make44:10 Strategies for Business Resilience51:26 Book Review: The Hard Thing About Hard Things59:28 Conclusion and Wrap-Up_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips
- EP49: Content Marketing in eCommerce: Storytelling That Sells (01:10:39)
In this episode of the ASOM Pod, hosts Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer, formally Founder of Sendlane), John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), Bryan MacDonald (Direct of eCommerce at Oma’s Pride) dive deep into one of the most underrated tools in marketing: storytelling. With raw insights and real examples, the crew explores how brands can use human connection, humor, and authenticity to cut through the noise and drive serious results—without always needing a massive ad budget.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Storytelling Converts: How emotional connection fuels customer loyalty and brand love.Organic > Over-Engineered: Why behind-the-scenes, real content wins over glossy perfection.Platform-Specific Tactics: What’s working (and what’s not) on TikTok, Instagram, Reddit, and YouTube.In-House vs. Agency: When to hire an internal content creator and when to outsource.Content Cadence: The pros and cons of high-frequency posting and what consistency really means.Story-Driven Brand Shoutouts: Standout campaigns from brands like Overnight Oats and Moms on Call.This episode is a tactical guide to building lasting brand resonance in a content-saturated world. If you’re looking to sharpen your content strategy and win with story, this one’s for you._____Big shoutout to our sponsors who make this podcast possible!Omnisend — With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences via email and sms with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/Alia - An app that is revolutionizing how brands turn website visitors into loyal customers. With some of the highest performing pop ups in eCommerce, Alia is helping brands ditch traditional webforms and double down on education, personalization and conversion. We highly recommend you check out :https://www.alialearn.com/Subscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.comCome hang out with us IRL - https://commerceroundtable.com_____00:00 Teaser Trailer03:19 Welcome to the ASOM Pod06:51 The Importance of Content Marketing11:39 The Power of Organic Social Media35:49 Identifying the Villains in Business36:37 Challenges with Legacy Thinking and Agencies38:06 Cool Brand Stories: Overnight Oats41:42 Cool Brand Stories: Apple and Accessibility47:26 Cool Brand Stories: Mom's on Call52:07 Effective Content Marketing Strategies01:02:36 Buy or Sell: Content Marketing Insights01:10:11 Wrapping Up_____Follow Jimmy Kim at: X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykimIG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykimFollow Bryan MacDonald at:X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomasprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ctIG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasaladTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasaladFollow John Roman at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRomanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromesTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmromanFollow Amer Grozdanic at: X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanicLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanicIG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanicTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanicContact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!#asompod #businesspodcast #businessinsider #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #ecommercepodcast #ecommerce #ecommercebusiness #ecom #dtc #dtcpodcast #ecommercetips