Amazon truckload hijacked, TikTok Shop creator tactics, new AI tools & strategies, Amazon PPC recovery, and a full revamp of the AM/PM & Serious Sellers Podcasts.

In this episode, Bradley Sutton kicks off a brand-new era for both the AM/PM Podcast and the Serious Sellers Podcast with co-hosts Carrie Miller and Shivali Patel. This simulcast episode sets the tone for what’s coming next: more Amazon, TikTok Shop, Walmart, and AI-driven strategies designed to help you make money in the AM and the PM. Bradley also shares the new format for both shows, including Weekly Buzz moving to AM/PM Podcast, expert-led trainings, and a renewed focus on real seller stories on Serious Sellers Podcast every Monday.

From there, things get wild. Carrie tells the story of a truckload of her Amazon inventory being hijacked on the freeway like a scene straight out of Fast & Furious, complete with a fake carrier, turned-off tracking, ransom demands, and a loss that ballooned to around $70K after tariffs. She breaks down what she learned about freight, tariffs, switching manufacturing from China to Turkey, and why sellers need to be more hands-on with carriers and agencies alike. Shivali then shares her own hard lesson: a high-margin product that kept failing customers, forcing her to pull the listing and rebuild the brand off-Amazon using a digital-first strategy that pairs a makeup mastery course with a physical product bonus and a new funnel powered by Google Ads.

To round out the episode, Shivali walks through exactly how she became a TikTok creator in just 12 days, qualified for the Creator Pilot Program, and started monetizing with TikTok Shop using existing camera-roll content, smart reposting, and product tagging. She also reveals some under-the-radar AI tools like Higgsfield and Arcads that can help sellers generate before-and-after content, influencer-style videos, and scalable creatives without always needing the physical product on hand. Carrie closes with one more key reminder for Amazon sellers: start paying attention to Rufus and optimize your listings around the real questions shoppers are asking, because AI-driven search is already changing how people discover products on Amazon.

In episode 477 of the AM/PM Podcast, Bradley, Carrie, and Shivali discuss:

• 00:00 – Bradley kicks off the new era of the AM/PM & Serious Sellers Podcasts
• 02:03 – Fast & Furious moment: an Amazon shipment gets hijacked
• 03:20 – How the thieves impersonated the carrier and held the load for ransom
• 05:14 – $70K in losses and what sellers MUST know about subcontracted carriers
• 07:48 – Turning a product failure into a digital-product-first business model
• 15:50 – Carrie moves manufacturing from China to Turkey - costs vs. tariffs
• 16:55 – Major announcement: Weekly Buzz moves to the AM/PM Podcast
• 22:10 – How Shivali became a TikTok Creator in 12 days &
• 27:45 – Carrie’s Amazon PPC agency disaster & how she rebuilt with Helium 10
• 34:05 – AI tools sellers haven’t heard of
• 36:45 – Optimizing Amazon listings for Rufus AI
• 37:55 – The future format of both podcasts moving forward

Kevin King signs off with Helium 10 Co-founder Guillermo Puyol as they revisit the origins, wild early days, big lessons, and legacy behind one of e-commerce’s biggest success stories.

For the final time as host of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin King sits down with someone who helped change the course of his career and the Amazon seller world at large. In this emotional closing episode, Kevin welcomes Guillermo Puyol, the brilliant, behind-the-scenes architect who helped transform a small side project into one of the most influential software companies in e-commerce, co-founder of Helium 10.

Kevin and Gui go deep into the real origin story of Helium 10, from Manny discovering Amazon selling through Gui’s retail arbitrage side hustle, to the creation of early Helium 10 tools like Scribbles and Frankenstein, to the unexpected momentum that led to hockey-stick growth… and ultimately, a life-changing exit.

Along the way, they share never-before-told stories:

• Recording podcasts from closets and garages
• Manny Coats nearly being “kidnapped” (not really)
• Why the AM/PM Podcast existed before Helium 10
• The infamous April Fools episode that caused chaos
• The first Illuminati mastermind and the rise of Helium 10 Elite
• The emotional whiplash after selling a company
• And why both of them are now back in the startup trenches with AI

This episode is part history, part entrepreneurship masterclass, and part heartfelt goodbye as Kevin concludes his 3.5-year run as host, marking 180+ episodes.

Whether you’re an OG listener who remembers the early AM/PM days or someone new to the brand, this conversation gives you a rare, unfiltered look inside the building of a billion-dollar ecosystem and the people who made it happen. 🏁 Final Notes From Kevin

As I close out this chapter of the AM/PM Podcast and my 9.5-year journey with Helium 10, I want to thank every listener, guest, and team member who made this ride unforgettable. From the early days of tin-can microphones to global events and hundreds of episodes, this community has been the heartbeat behind everything we've built.

If you’d like to stay connected, continue learning, and go deeper into the world of high-level e-commerce, here are links to stay in touch with me. https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-king-amazon/ https://www.youtube.com/@marketingmisfitspodcast https://join.billiondollarsellers.club/bdss-club/ https://www.billiondollarsellers.com/

In episode 476 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Guillermo discuss:

• 01:47 – How AM/PM Launched Kevin’s Entire Amazon Career
• 04:46 – Why Guillermo Puyol Is the Perfect Final Guest
• 10:20 – The True Origin Story: Flappy Bird, Financial Struggles, & a Chance Connection
• 14:20 – Building the AM/PM Podcast to Build an Audience
• 18:40 – The Moment Helium 10 Scribbles Was Born (Because Manny Tanked His Sales)
• 21:35 – Naming Helium 10 the Night Before an Event
• 26:00 – The Rise of the Illuminati Mastermind to Helium 10 Elite
• 30:15 – The War Room Event That Changed Everything
• 38:25 – Fireball Bottles, Screwball Whiskey & Conference Traditions
• 41:05 – Watching Helium 10 Become a Global Giant
• 46:10 – Life After the Exit: Identity, Depression, & Reinvention
• 56:10 – The Founders Return: Manny & Guillermo Launching Kreator.ai
• 01:03:00 – Advice to Entrepreneurs in 2025
• 01:10:45 – Kevin Shares His Own Next Chapter
• 01:13:15 – A Final Farewell & Gratitude

Let’s dive into Amazon PPC and break down DSP, AMC, wasted ad spend, and smarter campaign strategies. Learn how top brands win with data-driven advertising.

Can you afford to miss out on the secrets behind optimizing Amazon PPC, AMC, and DSP? Brent Zahradnik, a seasoned expert in Amazon advertising, brings his wealth of experience to our show, uncovering the complexities of Amazon advertising. Brent’s journey from the US to France adds a unique perspective to the conversation as he shares how balancing work across time zones and immersing in French culture has enriched his professional insights.

Amazon advertising has evolved dramatically from its early days of low cost-per-click rates and basic ad options. This episode unpacks the intricate landscape that demands expert management today, highlighting how advanced targeting and analytics have transformed strategy requirements. Brent shares poignant anecdotes of Amazon's initial ad experiments, while navigating the challenges that both advertisers and clients face in maintaining a competitive edge in this pay-to-play ecosystem.

The potential impact of AI on Amazon advertising agencies is another compelling topic Brent tackles, discussing how tools like Amazon Marketing Cloud (AMC) and Demand Side Platform (DSP) can revolutionize efficiency. With insights into selecting the right agency and the importance of comprehensive service packages, Brent guides listeners through optimizing their Amazon ad strategy. Whether you're a brand new to the platform or a seasoned seller, this episode promises actionable insights and the guidance needed to thrive in today's Amazon marketplace.

In episode 47 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Brent discuss:

• 00:00 - Exploring Amazon PPC With Brent Zahradnik
• 06:39 - Rise of Amazon Advertising Complexity
• 09:53 - Evolution of Amazon Advertising
• 12:44 - Agency vs Software in Amazon Sales
• 16:25 - AI in Amazon Advertising and Integration
• 23:00 - Impact of Rufus and COSMO in Amazon Advertising
• 26:08 - Amazon PPC Strategy and Data Analysis
• 30:55 - Keyword Strategy for Amazon Ranking
• 32:00 - Amazon DSP and Advertising Efficiency
• 35:07 - Modern Brand Building With Amazon DSP
• 38:16 - Combining Data Sets for Targeted Ads
• 41:26 - Customer Funnel Strategy for Conquesting
• 42:54 - Optimizing Amazon PPC and DSP Investments
• 47:59 - How Brands Can Utilize Amazon DSP
• 49:55 - Selecting an Amazon Advertising Agency
• 56:19 - Automated Conversion Campaigns in DSP
• 58:21 - Human Touch in Modern Advertising

In this episode, our guest breaks down how he turned a small family brand into a thriving media empire through newsletters, podcasts, AI tools, and TikTok Shop strategies that build real e-commerce influence.

Join us for an engaging conversation on the AM/PM podcast as we explore the world of podcasts and newsletters with Kelsey Farrar, a seasoned expert and son of industry veteran Norm Farrar. Kelsey shares his unique insights into the evolution of newsletters and how they have become indispensable resources in the e-commerce industry. Learn how valuable content can transform newsletters from simple marketing tools into must-read resources that truly engage and inform subscribers. Discover how Kelsey was inspired by my presentation in Puerto Rico to revamp the Lunch with Norm newsletter, enhancing its value and engagement.

Listen in as we discuss the power of newsletters as a tool for building brand engagement. We highlight the importance of tailoring content to resonate with audiences and strategies like audience segmentation and interactive elements. The conversation touches on the importance of analyzing metrics to understand audience preferences, using current topics like TikTok shop bans to boost engagement. Kelsey also shares his journey from teaching English in Korea to collaborating with his dad on his personal brand during the COVID-19 pandemic, gaining valuable social media and branding insights.

Finally, we navigate the dynamics of hosting a podcast with nearly 700 episodes and the lessons learned from interacting with hundreds of guests. Discover the significance of having robust systems and processes in place to ensure business sustainability while avoiding the distractions of fleeting industry trends. We also explore the intricacies of building an online presence through platforms like Amazon affiliates and TikTok, highlighting the patience and persistence required for content creation. The episode concludes with reflections on the contrasting dynamics between Lunch with Norm and Marketing Misfits podcasts, emphasizing the importance of personal branding and networking in the digital landscape.

In episode 474 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Kelsey discuss:

• 07:56 - Consistent, Light Newsletter With Industry Insights
• 11:55 - Building Brand Engagement Through Newsletters
• 15:36 - Family's Transition During COVID Shutdown
• 21:45 - Business Success on Podcasts and Social Media
• 24:20 - Navigating Business Trends and Growth
• 30:26 - Social Media Influence and Product Experimentation
• 32:31 - Navigating TikTok Shop Expectations
• 39:35 - TikTok Brand Management and Affiliate Outreach
• 43:31 - Podcast Dynamics and E-Commerce Trends
• 45:13 - Comparing Podcast Formats and Audience Engagement
• 48:17 - Podcast Format Pros and Cons
• 51:01 - E-Commerce Industry and AI Advancements

In this episode, discover how to optimize your Amazon listings this holiday season, and our guest shares her FILTER framework and why the human touch still beats AI in driving conversions.

Unlock the secrets of e-commerce success this holiday season by mastering the art of Amazon listing optimization with Karyn Thomas, our seasoned guest with a knack for turning Amazon product pages into sales powerhouses. Journey through her inspiring transition from a marketing professional to a listing optimization guru, and discover the innovative FILTR framework that transforms ordinary product listings into irresistible offers. This episode offers a ton of strategies and insights that have propelled Karyn to the forefront of the e-commerce world, setting up your listings for stellar conversion rates and category rankings.

Dive deep into the FILTER framework, where each element, plays a pivotal role in capturing the attention and hearts of customers. Harness the power of "why" from Simon Sinek’s philosophy to engage shoppers on an emotional level, and learn practical ways to apply these concepts to your listings. Karyn also unveils the critical importance of visuals in product listings, exploring the use of advanced AI tools to enhance image analysis and storytelling that resonates with your target demographic.

As the digital landscape evolves, so must your strategies. Explore the latest trends in video content and AI integration for Amazon and beyond. Karyn discusses the growing potential of platforms like TikTok Shop and shares insights on maintaining a human touch amidst technological advancements. This conversation is packed with actionable tips to optimize your listings continuously, ensuring they remain competitive and compelling. Join us and embrace the exciting future of e-commerce with confidence and creativity.

In episode 473 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Karyn discuss:

• 00:00 - Listing Optimization Strategies for Amazon Sales
• 10:08 - Key Factors in Amazon Sales Success
• 11:28 - Listing Optimization Framework
• 18:17 - The Power of Storytelling in Sales
• 22:21 - Optimizing Amazon Listings With Images
• 29:01 - Amazon Listing Optimization Strategies
• 32:09 - Video Creation for Advertising and Listings
• 35:30 - Differentiating Product Positioning for Listings
• 41:20 - Effective Amazon Listing Design Strategies
• 45:26 - Importance of Design in Amazon Sales
• 47:37 - Human Touch in E-Commerce
• 55:50 - Human Touch in AI Marketing

Thinking about going global? Learn how to expand from the US to the UK and the EU the smart way. We break down VAT, EPR, PAN-EU, cash flow, and compliance so international growth feels easy.

What if expanding your e-commerce business globally was simpler than you ever imagined? Join us as we welcome Demet Kale from Vatai, who is here to dismantle the daunting myths surrounding international expansion and VAT compliance. Together, we demystify the processes that often hold sellers back from seizing the lucrative opportunities European markets have to offer. Demet offers her expert insights into how a unified compliance solution can pave a smoother path amidst the growing competition, especially with manufacturers stepping directly into the scene.

Curious about leveraging Amazon’s vast European network for your business? We discuss the hurdles and victories of selling through Amazon in Europe, emphasizing the power of Amazon’s logistics and support systems. Tackling issues like multi-currency cash flow and the importance of VAT registration, we highlight how a strategic partnership can make navigating these waters much easier. Our dialogue underscores the necessity of knowledgeable partners in achieving seamless customs clearance and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles.

Beyond the realm of Amazon, we expand our horizons to explore global e-commerce strategies, including the OSS scheme for platforms like Shopify. Discover how this system simplifies VAT reporting for sellers with a German VAT number and enables them to cater to local VAT rates across EU countries. We also venture into alternative marketplaces like Allegro, CDiscount, and Bol.com, while addressing essential compliance topics such as EORI numbers and Extended Producer Responsibility in Europe. Whether you're a U.S. seller eyeing the European market or vice versa, this episode is packed with strategies to help you build a sustainable global brand.

In episode 472 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Demet discuss:

• 00:00 - Expanding E-Commerce Globally With VAT
• 01:48 - Global E-Commerce Compliance Services
• 12:19 - International Expansion and Cash Flow
• 16:40 - Expanding Amazon Sales Internationally
• 20:08 - Navigating VAT and E-Commerce Expansion
• 26:10 - Amazon Eases VAT Compliance for Sellers
• 28:02 - E-Commerce Expansion Beyond Amazon
• 32:07 - Exploring International Marketplaces and Logistics
• 38:43 - Label Tool and EU Representation Requirements
• 42:30 - Global E-Commerce Expansion Strategies
• 43:16 - Common Mistakes in International Expansion
• 51:12 - Guiding International Expansion With Demet

Learn how today’s guest went from eBay to AI-driven marketing. Discover his secrets to LinkedIn growth, UGC blitz campaigns, trade show ROI, and mastering AEO optimization.

Rob Stanley, a trailblazer in the e-commerce realm since the late '90s, shares his unique journey from selling parts for Palm Pilots on eBay to pioneering iPhone repair sales via YouTube. With nearly three decades of experience, Rob uncovers the secrets behind maximizing LinkedIn presence and the power of user-generated content strategies. He also recounts his remarkable transformation from being the "money man" to collaborating with companies challenging giants like Shopify. His stories are not just about past achievements but offer a roadmap for today's e-commerce professionals looking to make a mark in a dynamic industry.

Our conversation takes an exciting turn as we explore the captivating world of trade shows and the art of standing out. Rob shares vivid anecdotes on how to create unforgettable trade show experiences, emphasizing the need for creative hooks and interactive booth presentations to capture attendees' attention. Further, we dive into the art of crafting compelling LinkedIn posts that spur engagement, complete with insights on using varied content types and scheduling tools to maintain a vibrant online presence. With Rob's clever strategies, listeners will find themselves equipped with the tools to transform their LinkedIn and trade show tactics into genuine business growth.

In the final segment, Rob and Kevin explore the future of e-commerce, with a spotlight on AI optimization tools and emerging trends. We discuss the innovative potential of Super User-Generated Content and the evolution of e-commerce platforms, such as Miva. Rob offers compelling insights into how AI tools are reshaping search engine strategies, ensuring that brands stay visible in an increasingly digital world. From driverless technology to the evolution of sales dynamics, Rob's expert perspective provides a glimpse into the future, urging listeners to stay ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving landscape.

In episode 471 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Rob discuss:

• 00:00 - E-Commerce Journey With The "Money Man" Rob Stanley
• 07:51 - Discussion on Trade Shows and Feedback
• 08:46 - Maximizing Trade Show ROI
• 14:00 - Standing Out at Trade Shows
• 18:23 - Maximizing LinkedIn for E-Commerce Success
• 20:01 - Maximizing LinkedIn Engagement Strategies
• 24:41 - Promoting Brands and Products on LinkedIn
• 31:06 - Strategic Super UGC Marketing Blitz
• 38:11 - E-Commerce Industry Trends and Insights
• 44:33 - AI Optimization Tools for E-Commerce
• 48:47 - Chat GPT and AEO Rise
• 53:40 - Evolution of E-Commerce and AI
• 55:10 - Social Media Reach Out Tips