What if understanding your financials could make or break your e-commerce success? Join us as we chat with Jeff Lowenstein, a seasoned fractional CFO, and former aggregator M&A specialist, who reveals why knowing your numbers is the cornerstone of profitability in today's competitive market. We explore how Amazon's fees, which can eat up to 65% of sales, make sophisticated financial planning an absolute necessity. Jeff shares his invaluable insights from corporate finance and e-commerce, emphasizing how accurate financials can attract investors and stave off business failure.

We navigate the intricacies of forecasting and due diligence during acquisitions, touching on our team’s philosophy of maintaining a high close rate as a strategic tool. Jeff dives into the necessity of blending quantitative metrics and qualitative insights, such as market trends and unforeseen variables like fluctuating interest rates and emerging platforms like TikTok Shop. We analyze how detailed financial modeling and robust market analysis can power business valuation and growth, underscoring the importance of adaptability in an ever-evolving landscape.

Finally, we explore the significant role of fractional CFO services in e-commerce, highlighting how they differ from traditional accounting. Jeff explains how a fractional CFO can develop comprehensive forecast models, KPI dashboards, and provide critical financial analyses that propel Amazon businesses toward sustainability. We also discuss the fundamental differences between accrual and cash basis accounting, why cash flow management is crucial, and strategies to enhance your financial health. Don't miss out on these key takeaways that could transform your approach to financial management in your Amazon-selling journey!

In episode 400 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jeff discuss:

• 00:00 - Importance of Knowing Your Numbers
• 03:21 - Corporate Finance to Fractional CFO
• 06:52 - Importance of Financial Management in Scaling
• 08:58 - Costing Mistakes Impacting Profit Margins
• 15:34 - Forecasting and Finance in Due Diligence
• 17:40 - Models and Metrics in Aggregators & Business Acquisition
• 19:44 - Financial Profile and Aggregator Capital
• 25:28 - Understanding Fractional CFO Services for E-Commerce
• 36:47 - Cash Flow and Accrual Accounting Insights
• 39:09 - Navigating Profit and Inventory Management
• 46:01 - Focus on Profit and Growth Strategy
• 49:09 - Navigating Financial Risks in E-Commerce
• 50:00 - Kevin King's Words Of Wisdom

Ever wondered how to truly safeguard your Amazon business? Join us as we sit down with Joe and Lesley from Riverbend Consulting, whose unique journey from diverse professional roots to becoming the go-to problem-solvers for Amazon sellers will leave you inspired. From Joe's own Amazon account suspension woes to Lesley's rapid resolution skills, learn how their expertise can protect your online business from ASIN suspensions and unauthorized selling alerts.

Navigating Amazon's seller support can feel like a difficult task, but Joe and Lesley are here to share their wisdom. Discover the hidden inefficiencies within Amazon's siloed teams and the secret vocabulary and strategies that can help you get dedicated assistance. Whether it's understanding why the Costa Rica office is a game-changer or how to time your calls for optimal results, this episode offers practical advice to help you deal with Amazon's often frustrating support system.

But that's not all—we'll also uncover the darker side of Amazon selling, from click farms and listing manipulations to inventory issues linked to unsuitable inventory. Joe and Lesley provide crucial tips on protecting yourself from these malicious practices, maintaining account health, and ensuring compliance with Amazon's stringent policies. Plus, get a sneak preview of our next episode. Don't miss this episode packed with expert advice and actionable strategies to help you thrive in the Amazon marketplace.

In episode 399 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin, Lesley, and Joe discuss:

• 00:00 - Solving Amazon Seller Issues With Riverbend
• 07:08 - Effective Customer Service Process
• 10:37 - Challenges With Amazon Seller Support
• 16:14 - Amazon Seller Support Knowledge On Seller Central
• 24:49 - Amazon Seller Dirty Tricks and Issues
• 27:39 - Unsuitable Inventory Issue
• 30:41 - Amazon Seller Account Health and Advice
• 31:58 - Amazon Wholesale Account Manipulation
• 41:19 - Contact Information and Funny Stories
• 44:00 - Kevin King’s Words Of Wisdom

How do you transition from corporate life to entrepreneurial success while harnessing the power of marketing and social media? Join us as we chat with Michelle Barnum-Smith, a marketing maven who has mastered ManyChat flows in Amazon e-commerce and now thrives on TikTok. Michelle unravels her fascinating journey, sharing actionable insights on leveraging Instagram automation with ManyChat to skyrocket your engagement and conversion rates. If you're an Amazon seller or a social media enthusiast, Michelle’s strategies to tap into Instagram’s algorithm and boost your visibility are pure gold.

Reflecting on her career, she recounts her 12-year stint in corporate marketing with industry giants like Lenovo, IBM, and Comcast. The leap from corporate stability to entrepreneurship was riddled with challenges and learning curves. From founding a consulting business to embracing chatbot marketing in 2017, Michelle discovered a niche within the Amazon seller community that catapulted her to industry prominence. Through candid anecdotes, we unpack the trials and triumphs of leaving the corporate world to build a brand and gain recognition, leading to speaking engagements and a thriving business.

TikTok has revolutionized social commerce, effortlessly blending entertainment and shopping. We dissect why TikTok’s impulse-buying environment outshines Facebook and Instagram, and how it creates a seamless shopping experience. Delving into the nuances of selling on TikTok, we emphasize the importance of collaborating with creators and optimizing product listings. With lower referral fees and innovative features like TikTok Shop, the platform offers uncharted opportunities for sellers. We explore whether it's time to jump on the TikTok bandwagon or adopt a wait-and-see approach, considering potential regulatory challenges. This episode equips you with strategies and insights to navigate TikTok’s commerce landscape effectively.

Also, join the upcoming workshop where Michelle talks about TikTok Shop. To register, go to www.ttshopsellers.com

In episode 398 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Michelle discuss:

• 00:00 - Exploring E-Commerce Marketing Trends
• 07:10 - Utilizing Instagram for Marketing Automation
• 08:40 - Corporate Career to Amazon Marketing
• 10:45 - Corporate Career to Entrepreneurial Mother
• 17:39 - Exploring Marketing Strategies for Amazon
• 19:12 - Building Brands Through Marketing Strategies
• 31:39 - TikTok's Success in Social Commerce
• 37:22 - Effectiveness of TikTok for Sales
• 41:16 - The Future of TikTok Commerce
• 43:07 - Navigating TikTok's Creator and Affiliate Center
• 48:19 - Leveraging TikTok for Business Success
• 53:51 - Optimizing Listings and Ads on TikTok
• 55:14 - Product Shop Ad Strategy for TikTok
• 1:05:40 - Kevin King’s Words Of Wisdom