The eCom Collab Club® Podcast
More Than Just Another Growth Hack
Everyone’s got an opinion on how to start, run and grow an eCommerce business. We invite people who’ve actually had a go onto a LinkedIn Live every week and ask them how they’ve done it.
Join Adam Pearce live as he talks to founders, operators and industry experts about selling stuff online: what’s working, what went sideways and what they learned when the spreadsheet met reality.
Expect useful tips, candid confessions and the occasional tangent nobody asked for (but absolutely everybody enjoys).
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People Who’ve Done the Work
Hear from guests with actual experience, including the bits that didn’t make the celebratory LinkedIn post.
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From finding customers to keeping them, building brands to running the operation behind them. We get into the decisions, challenges and lessons you can use in your own business.
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Ep. 58
How Do You Survive The Internet After 230 Years in Business?
How do you pull a business founded in 1795 into modern eCommerce without destroying the thing that made it survive for eight generations? That’s the slightly terrifying job facing Joe Jaques, eighth-generation leader of Jaques of London. And despite running one of Britain’s oldest family businesses, Joe isn’t particularly interested in doing things the way they’ve always been done. In this episode of the eCom Collab Club® Podcast, Adam Pearce talks to Joe about taking a heritage retail business online, moving towards DTC, navigating Amazon and Shopify, using AI to transform creative testing and learning when customer behaviour should overrule your own instincts. Because having 230 years of history is lovely. It doesn’t make CAC, cash flow or container prices disappear. Joe talks candidly about joining a family business he originally had no intention of working for, the arguments that came with trying to modernise it and the enormous acceleration Jaques experienced during COVID. Adam and Joe get into what happened next – and why understanding "the boring financial stuff" earlier is one of the biggest lessons Joe would pass on to other founders. They also explore how Jaques approaches customers today, including using dozens of micro-personas, testing creative at scale with AI and recognising that what customers tell you they want and what they actually buy aren't always the same thing. They get into: – Taking an eighth-generation family business into eCommerce – Moving from traditional retail towards DTC – The realities of Amazon vs Shopify – How Jaques is using AI to produce and test advertising creative – Why Joe thinks brands should treat AI like a new employee – Understanding what parents really want when buying toys – Building advertising around 67 customer micro-personas – Why customer behaviour can be more useful than customer opinion – The financial consequences of rapid growth – How rising container costs added roughly £1 million to shipping – Why turnover isn't the same thing as building a healthy business – And whether an eventual ninth generation will want anything to do with it... About Joe Jaques Joe Jaques is the eighth generation of his family to lead Jaques of London, the British toys and games business founded in 1795. After initially having no plans to join the company, Joe eventually came into the business through sales before helping drive its move into eCommerce and DTC. Today, he's combining more than two centuries of brand heritage with modern performance marketing, customer data and AI – while trying not to be the generation that cocks it all up. About Adam Pearce Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, the community bringing together eCommerce brands, agencies and technology providers. On the eCom Collab Club® Podcast, Adam sits down with founders, operators and industry experts to get into the decisions, mistakes and lessons behind actually growing an eCommerce business. Links & Resources Joe Jaques on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/joe-jaques-6b6a22a Jaques of London: https://www.jaqueslondon.co.uk/ Adam Pearce on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearce eCom Collab Club® on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ecom-collab-club More from eCom Collab Club®: https://linktr.ee/ecomcollabclub 🎧 Follow the podcast for more conversations about eCommerce growth, DTC, customer acquisition, retention, AI, CRO and the reality of building brands online. Because apparently even after 230 years, there are still new ways to make running a business complicated.
7 Oct 202634 min
Ep. 57
Selling Alcohol Online: The Decisions That Build a Drinks Brand
Selling cocktails online sounds like a lovely business. Until you remember your product is liquid, glass, alcohol and needs to arrive looking like something you'd actually want to drink. Adam sits down with Tom Mayes, Co-Founder of Edmunds Cocktails, to talk about the decisions behind growing the business from two brothers making cocktails at home to producing around 1.5 million cocktails a year. And it turns out quite a few of those decisions come down to one thing: How much control are you willing to give up? Tom and his brother Paul have kept fulfilment in-house for years – partly because their product makes outsourcing complicated and partly, Tom admits, because they're control freaks. But as Edmunds has grown, that's becoming harder to justify. Then there's Amazon. Edmunds isn't currently selling there, preferring to grow its own DTC channel and keep hold of the customer relationship and data. But when millions of potential customers are already searching somewhere else, at what point does protecting your DTC business mean leaving money on the table? Adam and Tom get into all of it. They also chat about: –How a business built for hospitality accidentally found a huge DTC opportunity during COVID –Going from roughly £10k to £50k in online sales almost overnight – The realities of fulfilling cocktails yourself – Why something as simple as a garnish made outsourcing considerably more complicated – Where Amazon could fit into Edmunds' future without becoming the whole strategy – The danger of becoming too dependent on someone else's platform – Why Tom wishes they'd documented the Edmunds journey from day one – Staying close enough to customers to spot new product opportunities – Bootstrapping the business to around £1.2m before raising investment – Personalisation, gifting and what's next for the brand And, naturally, cocktail Christmas crackers. About the guest Tom Mayes is Co-Founder of Edmunds Cocktails, which he launched alongside his brother Paul in 2019. What started with cocktails made at home has grown into a business producing more than 1.5 million cocktails a year and supplying over 1,200 venues and retailers, including PizzaExpress and Nobu Hotels. About the host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, where he brings together the founders, operators and people actually doing the work behind growing eCommerce brands. On the eCom Collab Club® Podcast, Adam gets into the decisions, disasters, lessons and occasional bits of brilliance that don't tend to make it into the polished LinkedIn version. Booze. Boxes. Bezos. What could possibly go wrong? 🍸
28 Aug 202635 min
Ep. 56
Building Demand in a Market That Doesn't Exist Yet
What happens when your biggest competitor isn't another brand? It's the belief that your customer doesn't need what you're selling. In this episode of the eCom Collab Club® Podcast, Adam Pearce sits down with Jake Xu, Co-Founder of Shakeup Cosmetics, to talk about the realities of building a men's skincare and cosmetics brand in a market where stigma, stereotypes and customer education are all part of the acquisition strategy. And Jake's journey hasn't exactly been straightforward. He and his identical twin brother Shane went from running a creative agency together to launching Shakeup into Harvey Nichols in 2019. Three months later... COVID hit. With UK retail effectively disappearing overnight, they accelerated their international plans and launched into China — a move Jake says helped save the business. Today, Shakeup is a certified B Corp selling through more than 1,300 stores globally. Adam and Jake unpack what they've learned along the way, including why educating a market comes with a hefty price tag, why the same product can attract completely different customers in different countries, and why localisation needs to go much further than translating some website copy. They also get into omni-channel growth, cash flow, the dangers of trying to run two businesses at once and Jake's refreshingly flexible attitude towards five-year plans. But some of the best lessons come from the customers themselves. Jake shares the story of one man with rosacea whose reaction to trying Shakeup completely reframed what the brand was really selling. Not makeup. Confidence. In this episode: – Going from agency owner to consumer brand founder – Building a business with your identical twin – Launching Shakeup just before COVID – Why expanding into China helped save the company – The cost of educating customers in a new category – Challenging stigma around men's skincare and cosmetics – Why Shakeup chose omnichannel over DTC-only – How customer behaviour changes across international markets – Localisation and giving distributors creative freedom – Balancing ambitious growth with cash flow – Why Jake isn't a fan of rigid long-term plans – The customer story that changed how he thought about Shakeup If you're building a challenger brand, entering a new category or trying to sell something your audience doesn't immediately understand, there's loads in this one. About the guest Jake Xu is Co-Founder of Shakeup Cosmetics, the men's skincare and cosmetics brand he launched alongside his identical twin brother, Shane. After spending 12 years running a creative agency, Jake moved into the world of consumer brands with Shakeup in 2019. Since then, the business has become a certified B Corp and grown into more than 1,300 stores globally, challenging stereotypes around men's skincare and cosmetics along the way. About the host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, where he brings together the founders, operators and people actually doing the work behind growing eCommerce brands. On the eCom Collab Club® Podcast, Adam gets into the decisions, disasters, lessons and occasional bits of brilliance that don't tend to make it into the polished LinkedIn version of running a business. Having a brilliant product is only half the battle. First, you've got to convince people to give a sh*t. 🎧 Listen now to find out how this epic brand did exactly that.
7 Aug 202652 min
Ep. 55
Global Fulfilment Without the Headache
Everyone loves talking about growth. Fewer people want to talk about the warehouse that's supposed to keep up with it. Until orders start arriving late Returns start stacking up Or your customer service team starts forwarding emails titled: "wHeRe'S mY oRdEr?!" In this episode, Adam Pearce is joined by Steph Mitcheson, Business Development Director at Prolog Fulfilment Global, to talk about the operational reality of scaling an eCommerce business. Steph has worked across manufacturers, retailers and third-party logistics providers, helping brands navigate everything from international fulfilment and marketplace expansion to reverse logistics and returns. Together, they explore the challenges of knowing when to move to a 3PL, the hidden costs of handling fulfilment in-house for too long, and why logistics is no longer just an operations problem—it's a customer experience problem. If you're thinking about selling internationally, reviewing your fulfilment setup or wondering whether your warehouse can cope with your next stage of growth, this episode is packed with practical advice. In this episode: • When it's time to stop fulfilling orders yourself • The biggest fulfilment mistakes growing brands make • Global expansion without operational chaos • The realities of selling through Amazon and multiple sales channels • Why returns deserve more attention than they usually get • Reverse logistics, refurbishment and creating value from returned products • How logistics directly impacts customer experience and retention • Choosing the right fulfilment partner for your stage of growth • The operational questions founders should ask before scaling internationally About the Guest Steph Mitcheson is Business Development Director at Prolog Fulfilment Global, helping brands build smarter fulfilment, logistics and returns strategies that support long-term growth. With experience across manufacturers, retailers and 3PLs, Steph specialises in international fulfilment, reverse logistics, operational efficiency and helping businesses scale without creating unnecessary complexity. 🔗 Prolog Fulfilment Global → https://prologfulfilment.com/ About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, where he hosts honest conversations with founders and operators about the realities of growing modern eCommerce brands. 🔗 Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com 🔗 eCom Collab Club® → https://ecomcollabclub.com The best fulfilment strategy is the one your customers never have to think about. The worst is the reason they never order again. 🎧 Listen now. #eCommerce #Fulfilment #3PL #Logistics #ReverseLogistics #ReturnsManagement #CustomerExperience #eCommerceGrowth #eCommerceOperations #eCommercePodcast
24 Jul 202642 min
Ep. 54
Retention IS An Acquisition Problem, Actually
Most brands talk about acquisition as the bit that gets customers through the door, then hand them over to retention to keep them around. Janis Thomas thinks that is where brands go wrong. Because the first ad someone sees, the offer that gets them to buy and the experience that follows are all part of the same relationship. If the promise that won the first order does not match the experience that follows, customers do not tend to hang about for a second. In this episode, Adam Pearce is joined by Janis Thomas, CMO at Clothes Doctor, to unpack why acquisition, retention and customer experience need to stop operating as separate little islands. Janis brings experience from across eCommerce, subscriptions, digital media and entertainment, including senior roles at Birchbox and Playboy. Now, she is helping Clothes Doctor build a more considered approach to clothing care – helping people wash less, care better and keep the clothes they already own for longer. They discuss the danger of attracting customers with offers that do not build long-term value, what subscription businesses can teach eCommerce brands about repeat purchase, and how to create a customer experience that gives people a reason to come back. Also: Janis organised Hugh Hefner’s 80th birthday party. Not a retention tactic. Still a very good story! In this episode: • Why acquisition and retention should be planned together • How your first offer shapes customer expectations • The difference between getting a first order and building a repeat customer • When discounts create more problems than they solve • What subscription businesses understand about value, trust and repeat purchase • Why the post-purchase experience starts before someone checks out • How brands can align marketing promises with the real customer experience • Lessons from Birchbox, Playboy and Clothes Doctor • The Hugh Hefner birthday party story you did not know you needed to hear About the Guest Janis Thomas is CMO at Clothes Doctor, a UK laundry and clothing-care brand helping people make their clothes last longer through better care and less washing. She has led marketing, eCommerce and customer experience across businesses including Birchbox and Playboy, with a career spanning subscription, digital media, entertainment and consumer brands. 🔗 Clothes Doctor https://clothes-doctor.com About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and Founder of eCom Collab Club®, where he hosts candid conversations with founders and operators building modern eCommerce brands. 🔗 Blend Commerce https://blendcommerce.com 🔗 eCom Collab Club® https://ecomcollabclub.com If your retention plan starts after checkout, it might already be late. 🎧 Listen now #ecommerce #ecommercemarketing #customerretention #customerexperience #customerjourney #retentionmarketing #customeracquisition #customerloyalty #ecommercegrowth #subscriptionbusiness #subscriptionmarketing #crm #digitalmarketing #ecommercepodcast #dtcbrand
10 Jul 202642 min
Ep. 53
Your To-Do List Is Not a Business Strategy
There’s always another thing to optimise in eCom. Another app to trial. Another dashboard to build. Another landing page that's nearly ready. Just needs a few tweaks... A different headline... Maybe a few more widgets... Somehow, after all that, the work that actually moves the business forward is still sat at the bottom of tomorrow’s to-do list. In this episode, Adam Pearce chats with Peter Bollons, Head of eCommerce & Growth at Slick Gorilla, about how he runs a £12m+ eCommerce operation and seven-figure paid media budget without turning every decision into a six-week project. Peter shares why he believes 80% is often enough, how he identifies the quickest commercial wins, what he ignores, and why trying to do everything perfectly is a very efficient way to burn yourself out. This is not a conversation about doing less because you can't be bothered... It is about doing the right things before the things you want to be perfect. In this episode: • Why perfectionism is often procrastination by another name • The difference between high-impact work and looking-very-busy work • How to make faster decisions without making reckless ones • What Peter looks for as 30 day wins • Why small commercial wins beat endless strategic navel-gazing • Running a lean eCommerce operation without trying to become a human Swiss Army knife • Delegating, trusting specialists and knowing what not to own • How to spot whether AI, apps and dashboards are helping or just creating more admin • Advice for founders who are permanently overwhelmed and never feel caught up About the Guest Peter Bollons is Head of eCommerce & Growth at Slick Gorilla, overseeing global eCommerce growth, £12m+ in annual online revenue and a seven-figure paid media budget. Operating as a standalone eCommerce function (read team of one...in charge of all of that), Peter’s work spans commercial strategy, digital performance, customer experience and prioritisation – with a particular focus on getting the important work done before the “nice to have” work eats the week. 🔗 Slick Gorilla https://slickgorilla.com About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®. He hosts candid conversations with founders and operators building, fixing and growing modern eCommerce brands. 🔗 Blend Commerce https://blendcommerce.com 🔗 eCom Collab Club® https://ecomcollabclub.com be honest... Are you currently tweaking something for the ninth time because launching it feels scary? This episode is probably your sign to press publish. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify.
2 Jul 202637 min
Ep. 52
From Launch to Shelves in 21 Days: The Motherfungi® Story
When people hear that Motherfungi® landed retail stockists within 21 days of launching, they tend to focus on the 21 days. The more interesting part is everything that happened before them. In this episode, Adam sits down with Georgie Gough, founder of Motherfungi®, to talk about the journey from burnout and anxiety to building a functional mushroom brand that's already making waves in the wellness space. Before the launch came years of research, product development, learning, testing and preparing. The retail listings may have happened quickly, but the foundations were anything but. This is a conversation about patience, conviction and what it really means to build a brand around a problem you've experienced yourself. Along the way, Georgie shares the realities of launching in a crowded category, building credibility before customers exist, and why some of the biggest breakthroughs happen long before anyone notices. In this episode: • The personal story that inspired Motherfungi® • How burnout led Georgie into the world of functional mushrooms • Why she spent years researching before launching • Building credibility in a growing wellness category • The reality behind "overnight success" • Securing retail listings in the early days • The role of community, education and founder-led growth • Lessons learned from launching a purpose-driven brand • What comes next for Motherfungi® About the Guest Georgie Gough is the Founder of Motherfungi®, a functional mushroom brand created to help people support focus, energy and wellbeing naturally. Following her own experience with burnout and anxiety, Georgie spent years researching the category and developing products before launching Motherfungi® in 2026. 🔗 Motherfungi® → https://motherfungi.co.uk About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and Founder of eCom Collab Club®, where he hosts conversations with founders, operators and industry leaders building the next generation of consumer brands. 🔗 Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com Most people will see the 21 days. This episode is about the 3 years that made them possible. 🎧 Listen now.
24 Jun 202649 min
Ep. 51
Why Customers Never Follow The Plan
Marketers love customer journeys. Customers, unfortunately, have other ideas. One minute they're discovering your brand on social media. The next they're reading reviews, comparing prices, checking Amazon, asking a friend, forgetting you exist for a month and then buying from a completely different channel. Simple. In this episode, Adam Pearce is joined by Jack Squire from Get Better and Chris Forbes, Co-Founder of Cheeky Panda, to talk about how customers really buy in 2026. From trust and influence to affiliate marketing, customer feedback and the growing challenge of attribution, this is a conversation about the gap between the journeys brands design and the journeys customers actually take. Along the way, Chris shares lessons from growing Cheeky Panda into an internationally recognised brand and why understanding customer behaviour has become more important than ever. In this episode: – Why customers rarely take the route brands expect – The changing role of social media in discovery – Why trust beats marketing messages – The influence of reviews, affiliates and recommendations – How customer journeys differ across DTC, Amazon and retail – Why attribution is getting harder – Finding the moments that genuinely influence buying decisions – What brands can do to create better customer experiences About the Guest Chris Forbes is the Co-Founder of Cheeky Panda, a fast-growing sustainable household products brand helping consumers switch to bamboo alternatives. Since launching, Cheeky Panda has expanded internationally and become one of the best-known challenger brands in the category. 🔗 Cheeky Panda → https://thecheekypanda.co.uk About the Hosts Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helping helps Shopify brands improve conversion, customer experience and commercial performance. Jack Squire is Growth & Partnerships Lead at Get Better, working with brands to understand customer behaviour, improve decision-making and identify opportunities to create better customer experiences with email marketing. 🔗 Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com 🔗 Get Better → https://www.getbetter.co.uk Most customer journeys don't look anything like the ones in your workshop. And that's exactly why this conversation matters. 🎧 Listen now.
17 Jun 202630 min
Ep. 50
Every Platform Wants Your Money? Watch This...
Running an eCommerce business sometimes feels like a monthly exercise in watching invoices arrive and your company account balance plummet. – Your tech stack wants paying – Your ad platforms want paying – Your agencies want paying And somehow you're still expected to grow. In this episode, Adam sits down with Alex Webster, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Genie Drinks for an honest conversation about the financial realities of scaling a consumer brand. From obsessing over marketplace rankings and wholesale stock levels to making decisions around pricing, bundling and customer acquisition, Alex shares how Genie approaches growth when every pound has a job to do. Along the way they discuss: • Marketing spend versus actual return • The numbers founders should care about • Pricing, bundling and conversion • Balancing DTC, retail and wholesale channels • The commercial realities behind growth • Why sustainable growth beats vanity metrics If you've ever looked at your P&L and thought, "Where did all my money go?" ... this episode will feel cathartic. About the Guest Alex Webster is Co-Founder and Managing Director of Genie Drinks, helping grow the brand from startup challenger to nationally distributed soft drinks business. About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, where he spends his time helping eCommerce brands grow profitably and asking founders the awkward questions everyone else avoids.
12 Jun 202637 min
Ep. 49
The Real Cost of Sustainable Fashion
Most people agree that shopping sustainably is important. The question is: Do they care enough to change how they shop? In this episode, Adam sits down with Delphine McNeill and Beth Pollak, founders of Livotte, for an honest conversation about what happens when sustainability collides with commercial reality. From customer expectations and pricing pressures to manufacturing decisions and founder resilience, this isn't a discussion about what sustainability should be. It's about what it looks like when you're trying to build a real business around it. Delphine and Beth share the moments that made them question the fashion industry, the challenges of creating products responsibly, and why building a purpose-led brand can sometimes feel like swimming against the tide. Along the way, the conversation explores whether consumers genuinely reward sustainable choices, how founders navigate difficult trade-offs, and what it takes to stay committed to a mission when the easier path is often the more profitable one. This episode explores: • Why sustainability remains one of fashion's biggest challenges • The tension between values and commercial reality • Consumer behaviour versus consumer intentions • The realities of responsible sourcing and production • Building a business around long-term thinking • Founder resilience in difficult markets • Why purpose alone isn't enough to build a successful brand About the Guests Delphine McNeill and Beth Pollak are the co-founders of Livotte, a fashion brand built around quality, longevity and more responsible production practices. Through Livotte, they are challenging many of the assumptions that have shaped modern fashion consumption while building a business designed to stand the test of time. 🔗 Livotte → https://www.livotte.com About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, where he hosts conversations with founders, operators and industry leaders tackling the biggest opportunities and challenges in eCommerce. 🔗 Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com 🔗 eCom Collab Club® → https://ecomcollabclub.com The fashion industry isn't short of opinions on sustainability. This conversation is about the reality.
29 May 202639 min
Ep. 48
Your Team Shouldn't Still Be Doing This Manually
Most eCommerce businesses still run on people manually moving information from one place to another. Copying.Pasting.Updating.Chasing. And somehow we’ve all accepted this as normal. In this episode, Adam sits down with Simon Green, Co-Founder of Sprintr, to talk about where AI automation is actually changing eCommerce businesses — not just content generation, but the operational workflows quietly eating up time, money and brainpower behind the scenes. This is less “AI thought leadership” and more: 👉 what should already be automated👉 what brands are still doing manually for no reason👉 and what happens when workflows start redesigning themselves around AI If your current AI strategy is mostly “make this sound more professional”… this episode might cause a minor existential crisis. In this episode: • Why most brands approach AI backwards • The operational workflows nobody talks about • What “human middleware” actually means • Tasks humans shouldn’t still be doing manually • Where automation creates immediate impact • AI and the future of team structure • The first workflows Simon would automate inside a £10m Shopify brand Links Sprintr → https://sprintr.ai/Simon Green (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-gr33n/Adam Pearce (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearceBlend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com #aiautomationecommerce #shopifyaiworkflows #ecommerceautomation #aioperationsecommerce #workflowautomationshopify #ecommerceaitools #shopifyworkflowautomation #aiinecommerceoperations
14 May 202645 min
Ep. 47
More Emails Won’t Fix Your Churn
Most brands think they have a retention problem. They don’t. They’ve got an everything-else problem…and they’re trying to fix it by sending more emails. In this episode, Adam is joined by Craig Niven, Founder of FILDI, to unpack what actually causes subscription churn — and why your lifecycle team is being asked to fix things they didn’t break. From acquisition quality and pricing strategy to failed payments quietly draining revenue, this is a look at the parts of subscription businesses that don’t show up in your Klaviyo dashboard. Craig’s spent 15+ years working in subscriptions across Sky, BT, News UK and sports streaming platforms, and now helps brands stop the bleeding and build subscription models that actually hold together. He’s also a Lord of one square foot of Scotland. In this episode • Why “retention = emails” is one of the biggest myths in eCommerce • How churn often starts with who you acquire (not how you retain) • Why discount-led acquisition can backfire long-term • The pricing mistakes that quietly kill subscriber value • What passive churn is — and why most brands miss it • Why emails can’t fix broken systems (but still have a role) • What a proper retention system actually looks like Links FILDI → https://fildi.coCraig Niven (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigniven/Adam Pearce (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearce/Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com If your churn rate is creeping up…this episode will tell you why and what you can do about it.
17 Apr 202648 min
Ep. 46
How Not to Lose Money in 5 Countries at Once
Expanding internationally sounds like the dream. More customers. More markets. More revenue. Until your margins disappear, your ops get messy, and you realise you’ve accidentally built five slightly broken businesses instead of one good one. In this episode, Adam sits down with Kareem Raslan, Managing Director of Braingain, to talk about what scaling internationally actually looks like. From importing dumbbells during lockdown and delivering them around London… to building a brand with 100,000+ customers across 30+ countries, Kareem shares the lessons (and mistakes) that shaped Braingain’s growth. This is a conversation about simplifying, focusing, and building a business that actually makes money — not just one that looks good on a map. In this episode: • Why trying to sell everything everywhere doesn’t work • The reality of unit economics across multiple markets • Why first-order profitability matters more than most brands admit • How localisation impacts performance in EU markets • What breaks first when you scale (and how to fix it) • Why simplifying channels can unlock growth • The challenges of working capital during expansion • What Kareem would do differently starting again About the guest Kareem Raslan is the Managing Director of Braingain, a fitness equipment brand that scaled rapidly from a lockdown side hustle into a global business serving 100,000+ customers across 30+ countries. Starting by importing adjustable dumbbells and delivering them locally around London, Kareem has built Braingain into a brand focused on profitable growth, strong unit economics and disciplined expansion. He has hands-on experience navigating the complexities of international expansion, product focus, channel strategy and scaling operations. 🔗 Braingain website ➡️ https://www.braingain.fit 🔗 Kareem Raslan (LinkedIn) ➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemraslan/ About the host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helping eCommerce brands grow through smarter CRO, customer experience and commercial strategy. Known for cutting through noise and focusing on what actually drives growth, Adam brings practical, operator-led conversations to founders and teams. 🔗 Adam Pearce (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearce Links Braingain → https://www.braingain.fitAdam Pearce (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearceBlend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 💬 Comment: What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made (or seen) when expanding internationally? #internationalecommerceexpansion #ecommercescalingstrategy #uniteconomicsecommerce #dtcglobalexpansion #howtoscaleecommerceinternationally #ecommerceprofitability #amazonshopifystrategy#ecommercegrowthmistakes
23 Mar 202650 min
Ep. 45
Shooting Your Shot at DICK'S Sporting Goods | Big Retail Reality Check (Part 1)
In this episode, Adam sits down with Emma Burke, founder of LACEEZE, who’s done something most founders only talk about… She’s picked a very specific goal: 👉 Get her brand into Dick’s Sporting Goods. Not “grow wholesale.” Not “explore retail.” Actual, named retailer. Big leagues. So naturally, Adam does what Adam does — pulls the plan apart (nicely) to figure out if it’s genius, madness… or somewhere in between. This is Part One of the journey, where Emma lays everything on the table: the thinking, the strategy, and what she’s already tried to make it happen. No fluff. No “manifest it and it’ll come.” Just what it really looks like when you aim for big retail. They cover: – Why Emma chose Dick’s Sporting Goods (and what makes it the right target)– The real ways brands get in front of retail buyers– What she’s already tried — and what’s worked (and hasn’t)– The gap between “getting stocked” and actually being ready for it– What founders underestimate about retail scale– The operational, margin and growth implications of going wholesale– Why landing a big retailer isn’t the finish line — it’s the starting gun This episode is for any founder thinking: “Should we go wholesale?” “How do you actually land a big retailer?” or “Are we even ready for that level of scale?” About the Guest Emma Burke is the founder of LACEEZE, building a brand designed to scale — with ambitions to break into major retail. She’s sharing the process in real time, not after the fact. About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helping eCommerce brands grow through better strategy, CRO and customer experience. Links Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com LACEEZE → https://laceeze.co.uk/ If you’ve ever thought about taking your brand into retail…this is where the reality check starts.
18 Mar 202638 min
Ep. 44
The Power of Founder-Led Brands
How Finula Crowe built New Day Originals through authenticity and networking. What does it actually mean to build a brand around a person? In this episode, Adam is joined by Finula Crowe, founder of sustainable fashion brand New Day Originals, to talk about founder-led brands, networking, and why personal visibility is becoming one of the biggest growth advantages in modern eCommerce. Rather than hiding behind the brand, Finula has built her business by showing up — sharing the story behind the company, connecting with people in the industry, and building genuine relationships along the way. The conversation explores why founder presence builds trust faster than polished marketing, how networking still creates the best opportunities in business, and why playing the long game in eCommerce is less about hacks and more about human connection. In this episode • Why founder visibility is becoming a competitive advantage• How personal brand and business brand reinforce each other• The power of authentic networking in eCommerce• Building community around a sustainable fashion brand• Why relationships compound over time Links New Day Originals → https://newdayoriginals.com Adam Pearce (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearce Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com
12 Mar 202649 min
Ep. 43
We Need To Talk About The Box
Most eCommerce brands obsess over the digital stuff. Ads. Funnels. Landing pages. Checkout flows. And then the customer finally buys… and the entire experience ends in a box. In this episode, Adam Pearce sits down with Luke Howitt, Co-Founder of Supplied, to talk about the most overlooked moment in the customer journey: when the product actually arrives. They unpack why packaging shapes first impressions, influences retention, and quietly becomes one of the biggest operational headaches as brands scale. If your brand's growing fast, or you want it to, this episode might save you from discovering the “cardboard bottleneck” the hard way. They cover: – Why packaging is the book cover to your brand– The moment digital experience becomes physical reality– Why brands underestimate the power of the unboxing experience– How packaging affects loyalty and repeat purchase– Why packaging becomes a bottleneck as brands scale– Operational challenges high-growth brands run into– How packaging decisions impact logistics, cost and CX– Balancing brand presentation with sustainability About the Guest Luke Howitt is Co-Founder of Supplied, an end-to-end packaging supplier helping eCommerce brands design and scale packaging that matches their brand experience. Supplied works with fast-growing brands to ensure packaging supports both brand perception and operational efficiency as they scale. About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helping brands grow through better customer experience, CRO and smarter operational thinking. Links Supplied → https://supplied.agency → https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukehowitt/ Adam Pearce (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearce Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 💬 Comment: What’s the best unboxing experience you’ve ever had from a brand? And (because you want to – go on, you know you do), what's the worst? #ecommercepackaging #theunboxingexperience #customerexperience #ecommerce #brandpackagingstrategy #dtcpackaging #ecommercefulfilment #ecommercegrowth #brandexperience
4 Mar 202647 min
Ep. 42
Support Sells Stuff
Customer support has spent years being treated like admin. The inbox. The tickets. The thing you “deal with later.” Turns out… it’s quietly influencing whether customers buy, bounce, or come back annoyed. In this episode, Adam Pearce is joined by Gareth Cummings, CEO of eDesk, to unpack why customer support sits inside the revenue funnel — and why ignoring it is costing brands more than they realise. They cover how customer questions shape buying decisions, what breaks as brands scale, and where AI actually helps support teams (without removing the humans that customers still want). If you care about conversion, retention, or not drowning in tickets — this one’s worth wrapping 'round your ears. They cover: – Why support is wrongly treated as a cost centre– Where customer questions influence conversion– What customers are actually asking before they buy– Why support data should sit closer to marketing– Where support lives in the funnel (hint: everywhere)– What breaks first as brands scale– How response speed impacts revenue and returns– Where AI helps — and where it’s dangerous– Why fully human-less support is a terrible idea– What £3–10m founders can do tomorrow morning About the Guest Gareth Cummings is CEO of eDesk, a customer support platform built specifically for eCommerce brands looking to scale without sacrificing speed, consistency or humanity. About the Host Adam Pearce is Co-Founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helping brands grow by focusing on the things that actually move the needle. Links eDesk → https://www.edesk.com Adam Pearce (LinkedIn) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearce Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com #ecommerce #customersupport #cx #conversion #retention #aiincx #ecomcollabclub
26 Feb 202648 min
Ep. 41
The Subscription Reinvention – What's Next for Subs?
For a while, subscriptions were hailed as the holy grail of eCommerce. Launch one, sit back, count the money. Easy. Reality had…other plans. In this episode, Adam Pearce is joined by John Burke, Founder and Non-Executive Director of Craft Gin Club, to talk about how subscription models have evolved – and what separates the brands that last from the ones that quietly churn themselves into oblivion. This is a calm, grown-up look at subscriptions in 2026: less gimmicks, more value. They cover: – How subscription models have changed over the last decade– Why customers are more selective than ever– Loyalty vs lock-in (and why one kills brands)– What Craft Gin Club got right building long-term retention– Pricing, cadence and perceived value– Why “easy recurring revenue” was always a myth– What the future of subscriptions really looks like About the Guest John Burke, Founder and Non-Executive Director of Craft Gin Club, one of the UK’s most established subscription brands built on curation, experience and community. About the Host Adam Pearce, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helping brands grow without nuking margins or trust. Links Craft Gin Club → https://www.craftginclub.co.ukBlend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com eCom Collab Club® → https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ecom-collab-club #subscriptions #ecommerce #retention #recurringrevenue #dtc #ecomcollabclub
20 Feb 202656 min
Ep. 40
The CEO Brain at 3am
What Do CEOs of eCommerce Brands Really Think About? Everyone talks about growth tactics. Very few talk about the mental load of actually running the business. In this episode, Adam Pearce sits down with Luke Bream, CEO of Valentte, for an honest conversation about what really occupies the mind of an eCommerce CEO — beyond dashboards, Slack pings, and LinkedIn optimism. This isn’t about hacks. It’s about leadership, pressure, decision-making, and the quiet stuff nobody posts about. They cover: – What keeps eCom CEOs awake at night– The shift from founder mode to CEO mode– Decision fatigue and prioritisation– Growth vs stability (and when to choose each)– Leading teams without micromanaging– Why more data doesn’t always equal better decisions– The realities of responsibility, pressure, and long-term thinking If you’re running a brand, or want to one day, this episode hits differently. About the Guest Luke Bream is CEO of Valentte, a premium home fragrance and lifestyle brand built on craftsmanship, calm, and long-term brand thinking. Luke focuses on sustainable growth, leadership clarity, and building a business that lasts. About the Host Adam Pearce, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helps brands grow without losing their minds, margins, or momentum. Links Valentte → https://www.valentte.comLuke Bream on LinkedIn → https://uk.linkedin.com/in/luke-breamAdam Pearce on LinkedIn → https://uk.linkedin.com/in/shopifyexpertadampearceBlend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com #ecommerce #leadership #ceomindset #founders #dtc #ecomcollabclub
4 Feb 202655 min
Ep. 39
Lord of the Billing Cycle – Why CRO & Subscriptions Need to Collab
In this episode, Adam sits down with Craig Niven: Founder of FILDI, 15-year subscription veteran and literal Scottish Lord — to unpack one of the most misunderstood relationships in eCommerce: CRO + Subscriptions. Most brands treat them like divorced parents who only communicate through passive-aggressive notes…but the reality is they have to work together if you want recurring revenue that actually sticks. Craig’s seen subscriptions at Sky, BT, News UK, NFL Game Pass, Tennis TV and Future. He’s here to explain what healthy subscription businesses do differently, why so many brands launch subs badly and how to stop churn before it starts. This one’s a biggie for anyone running subscriptions, planning to launch them, or wondering why their LTV looks like a heart monitor. They cover: – Why CRO & Subscription teams accidentally sabotage each other– How AB tests impact churn (yep, really)– AOV vs ARPU vs LTV: which metrics actually matter– The subscription boom: who should (and shouldn’t) launch one– Loyalty vs retention (and why points don’t equal loyalty)– The upsides, downsides & emotional damage of subscription models– Craig’s top 3 non-negotiables for subscription success– What healthy subscription businesses look like behind the scenes– How CRO + Subs can collaborate without stepping on each other’s throats About the Guest Craig Niven, Founder of FILDI Subscriptions Consultancy and official Lord of Glencoe (one square foot of Scottish land, infinite authority). Craig has spent 15 years deep inside the subscription world across Sky, BT, News UK, NFL Game Pass, Tennis TV and Future. Today, he helps scale-up brands build, understand and grow recurring revenue. FILDI – https://www.fildi.co LinkedIn – Craig Niven: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigniven/ About the Host Adam Pearce, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®. CRO obsessive. Known for saying the quiet eCom thoughts out loud (and then some). Join the eCC community → https://ecomcollabclub.com/community Work with Blend Need your site to convert like your metrics depend on it? Get CRO help from Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com
5 Dec 20251h 1m
Ep. 38
The 2025 Paid Ads Reality Check
Paid ads in 2025 feel like a toxic relationship: You need them… You rely on them… But they hurt you on a molecular level. This week, Adam Pearce and Pete Gardner sit down with Oscar Ford, Founder of Anuncia, to break down what’s actually happening inside Google, Meta and Microsoft Ads...beyond the shiny webinars and suspiciously perfect LinkedIn screenshots. Oscar brings 15+ years of PPC experience, £3m+ in managed annual ad spend, and more strong opinions than the platforms would like him to have. If your CPC keeps climbing, your tracking keeps breaking and your ROAS keeps gaslighting you, this is the episode that finally explains why. They Cover: – Why ad costs are skyrocketing across every platform – What caused the 2025 auction inflation (and why it’s not slowing down) – The death of old targeting tactics – How Google & Meta are “simplifying” ads… while making things harder – Why tracking + clean data matter more than ever – How product feed optimisation impacts everything – The unsexy basics that outperform every shiny hack – The channels that actually worked: PMax, YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Amazon Ads – The signals that tell you an account is on the edge of disaster – What Oscar would do if he had just £1,000 to grow a brand This is the PPC episode brands needed six months ago. About the Guest Oscar Ford, Founder of Anuncia, is a PPC specialist of 15+ years managing millions in annual ad spend for ambitious UK eCommerce brands and charities. An expert in tracking, feed optimisation, analytics, and calling out bad platform advice. About the Hosts Adam Pearce and Peter Gardner, co-founders of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, helping operators grow without losing their sanity, their margins, or their will to live. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #PaidAds #PPC #MetaAds #GoogleAds #DigitalMarketing #Shopify #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
27 Nov 20251h 0m
Ep. 37
How to Go Global Without Going Broke
Brands love to say they’re “going international.” Cool. Cute. But as George Bland from Airwallex will tell you, global expansion is less passport stamps and more surprise FX fees + late-night logistics panic. This week, Adam and Pete sit down with George Bland, Agency Partnerships Manager at Airwallex, to pull back the curtain on what really happens when a brand decides to sell beyond its borders...and how to stop your margins leaking faster than your sanity. If “international expansion” is anywhere near your 2026 roadmap, consider this episode mandatory listening. They cover: – How to pick the right markets (not just the shiny ones)– FX leakage — the silent profit killer– Payments, tax, and compliance: what you absolutely cannot afford to wing– Cross-border logistics and the ops mistakes brands keep repeating– How to prep your business for global scale without setting fire to your margins– The real cost of going global — and how to do it sustainably This is the stuff most founders learn the hard (and expensive) way. George is here to save you from that. About the Guest George Bland, Agency Partnerships Manager at Airwallex, has spent 7+ years in payments and cross-border eCommerce (Klarna, Airwallex), helping brands and agencies access new global markets without triggering a financial meltdown. About the Hosts Adam Pearce and Pete Gardner, co-founders of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, known for turning eCommerce chaos into conversations that are actually fun to listen to. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #InternationalExpansion #CrossBorderCommerce #GlobalGrowth #Payments #Shopify #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
18 Nov 20251h 2m
Ep. 36
How to Keep Customers When the World’s on Fire
The world’s in chaos. Ad costs are climbing, margins are vanishing and someone in finance just used the word “reforecast” again. So this week, Pete flies solo with Joseph Aubry, CEO of Loyoly.io, to talk about how brands can survive (and thrive) when the markets are wobbling, consumers are twitchy and retention is the only real growth hack left. Because let’s face it — in 2025, keeping your customers might be the boldest move of all. They cover – Why loyalty is your best defence against rising CAC– What “global market challenges” actually mean for operators– How to scale sustainably when budgets are tight– Turning community, social proof, and post-purchase engagement into growth– Why retention > panic – every time If you’ve ever found yourself praying your customers don’t ghost you after checkout, this one’s your new playbook. About the Guest Joseph Aubry, CEO of Loyoly.io, is helping brands turn customers into advocates. Loyoly’s post-purchase engagement platform connects loyalty, community and UGC to keep customers coming back and buying more. About the Host Pete Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club® — known for his strong opinions, weak filter, and ability to make retention chat actually entertaining. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #Loyalty #CustomerRetention #SustainableGrowth #Shopify #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
7 Nov 20251h 0m
Ep. 35
The Real Anatomy of eCom Growth
Everyone loves to talk about growth. That is until the numbers stop making sense, the ad budget starts to cry and your “scaling strategy” turns into a stress dream... This week, Adam and Pete are joined by Paul Fernandez, Co-founder of The Growth Guys, to dig into The Real Anatomy of eCom Growth. A.k.a. what it actually takes to scale a brand without losing your mind (or your margins). Paul breaks down his HEAD and HEART frameworks: the method behind sustainable growth that blends strategy, emotion and execution without all the fluff. They Cover: – Why “growth at all costs” usually ends up costing you everything– How to stop mistaking activity for actual progress– What the best operators measure (hint: it’s not just ROAS)– How to scale profitably without frying your team’s brains– The role of emotion, focus, and process in real growth This one’s for the operators who are tired of the “just run more ads” school of growth. It’s not therapy… but it’s close. About the Guest Paul Fernandez, Co-founder of The Growth Guys, helps eCom brands scale sustainably with a unique blend of analysis, strategy and killer creatives; turning chaos into clarity (and maybe a few extra zeros). About the Hosts Adam Pearce, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™️, known for his bold takes, blunt truths and love of metrics that actually matter. Pete Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and professional stirrer of the eCom pot. Bringing stories, chaos and hard-earned wisdom from the trenches. Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #GrowthStrategy #ScalingBrands #Shopify #DTCGrowth #SustainableGrowth #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
24 Oct 20251h 5m
Ep. 34
The Discount Intervention
In this episode, Pete sits down with Dan Bond, VP of Marketing at RevLifter, to talk about everyone’s favourite panic button: discounting – and why a lot of brands are getting it spectacularly wrong. From lazy blanket sales to smarter, data-driven incentives, Dan breaks down how to stop discounts from draining your profit, while still giving customers that sweet, sweet dopamine hit they’re looking for. This one’s part therapy session, part masterclass in how not to ruin your margins before BFCM. They cover: – Why “20% off everything” isn’t a strategy (it’s a cry for help)– How to personalise incentives that actually convert– The psychology behind smarter offers (and why your customers don’t need more codes, they need reasons)– How to break your audience’s discount addiction– Turning promos into long-term profit drivers This episode is for: Founders, marketers and eCom operators who’ve ever hit “launch” on a site-wide sale just to make the numbers look better...and probably regretted it immediately. If you want to make this BFCM your most profitable one yet (without giving away the shop), you’ll want to listen to this one twice. About the Guest Dan Bond, VP of Marketing at RevLifter — helping brands use personalised incentives and smarter promos to drive conversions without torching their margins. About the Host Peter Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, on a mission to help eCom brands scale sustainably with fewer discounts, fewer tears and more profit. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #DiscountStrategy #BFCM #Shopify #PromoCodes #Profitability #RetentionMarketing #DTCGrowth #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
17 Oct 20251h 3m
Ep. 33
Growth Without the Gamble
Adam and Peter sit down with Matthew Holland, Managing Director at William Swindells Ltd, to talk about the least sexy, but most important part, of scaling a brand – money. From Shopify Capital to PayPal Working Capital (and everything in between), Matthew breaks down what alternative financing really looks like for growing brands — minus the buzzwords and VC fluff. William Swindells Ltd has scaled its portfolio of brands, including Hollands Country Clothing and Hollands Workwear, into a multi-million-pound business without giving away equity or losing control. In this episode, Matthew shares how he’s kept the balance between growth and cash flow — and the financial lessons every operator needs before scaling up. They cover:– The real cost of “growth at all costs”– How to use funding tools like Shopify and PayPal without getting burned– Why cash flow forecasting matters more than your P&L looking pretty– Balancing sustainable growth with risk and reality– Lessons from building a profitable, family-run business– How to make smarter decisions when funding feels tight This episode is for founders and operators who want to grow their brand without selling their soul (or 40% of their company). If you’ve ever stared at your bank balance mid-scale-up and thought “oh sh*t,” this one’s for you. About the Guest Matthew Holland, Managing Director of William Swindells Ltd, a family-run retailer turned eCommerce powerhouse. Matthew has grown the business sustainably through smart financing and operational discipline — no venture capital required. About the Hosts Adam Pearce, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, CRO specialist and professional chaos-stirrer. Peter Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, obsessed with what actually works in eCommerce. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #Scaling #Funding #CashFlow #AlternativeFinance #Shopify #DTCGrowth #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
10 Oct 20251h 0m
Ep. 32
Q4 Chaos Uncovered: Ops Nightmares and Real Talk
In this episode, Adam and Rich sit down with Andrew Kemp, founder of Bare Kind, to talk about the unglamorous side of scaling: inventory, fulfilment and how to keep customers happy when Q4 ops chaos inevitably hits. Bare Kind is a brand selling bamboo socks to save endangered animals – and Andrew’s taken it from packing orders at his mum’s house to scaling international fulfilment. Along the way, he’s seen the good, the bad, and the downright messy when it comes to growth. This isn’t the polished LinkedIn version of scaling. This is what really happens when stock, couriers, and cashflow collide. They cover:– What happens when you run ads before stock arrives– Stockouts, wrong SKUs, and the hidden costs of ops mistakes– Courier chaos & keeping CX alive when fulfilment fails– Why scaling ops feels like building the plane mid-flight– The truth about “just in time” inventory (spoiler: it’s tears)– Practical strategies to survive Q4 without torching margins (or your sanity) This episode is for operators who know growth isn’t all champagne graphs and hockey sticks — it’s cardboard boxes, late-night stock checks, and courier emails that ruin your week. About the Guest Andrew Kemp, founder of Bare Kind — a brand selling bamboo socks that save endangered animals, scaling from a living-room packing station to international fulfilment. About the Hosts Adam Pearce, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, CRO specialist and professional chaos-stirrer. Rich Evans, Founder of Get Better and long-time partner-in-crime at eCom Collab Club™, email and retention expert. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #Scaling #Ops #Inventory #Fulfilment #Q4 #BFCM #Shopify #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
3 Oct 20251h 3m
Ep. 31
BFCM Brand vs Performance: How to Sell Big Without Looking Cheap
In this episode, Pete sits down with William Ferreira, Chief Growth Officer at ThreeSixty Brands (part of Common Thread Group), to take on the eternal brand vs performance debate – and what it really means for Black Friday/Cyber Monday. From founding and selling his first agency at just 19 (working with Virgin, Nike & Diageo) to now scaling 50+ DTC and omnichannel brands across the beauty, wellness, lifestyle and food eCom industries, William’s seen how brands win (and lose) during peak season. Turns out this isn’t about “team brand” or “team performance.” It’s about how the two fuel each other — especially when the pressure’s on at BFCM. They cover: – Why “brand vs performance” is the wrong fight to pick– Driving record BFCM sales without looking cheap– Smarter promos: bundles, gated drops & gift-with-purchase plays– How partnerships & collabs stretch smaller budgets further– Building authentic communities (hint: it’s not just a Slack group)– The “one funnel, one offer” rule to simplify peak-season chaos This episode is for operators who want to sell big at BFCM without torching margins or turning their brand into a bargain bin. If you’re tired of the “50% off everything” panic playbook, this one’s for you. About the Guest William Ferreira, Chief Growth Officer at ThreeSixty Brands, part of Common Thread Group. William founded and exited his first agency at 19, worked with global brands including Virgin, Nike and Diageo, and now helps 50+ DTC and omnichannel brands scale profitably across multiple categories. About the Host Pete Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, obsessed with what actually works in eCommerce. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it?Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #BFCM #BlackFriday #CyberMonday #BrandBuilding #PerformanceMarketing #Shopify #DTCGrowth #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
19 Sept 20251h 1m
Ep. 30
Stop BFCM Meltdowns: WhatsApp Strategies That Work
In this episode, Pete and Adam sit down with Abhishek Chandra, Chief Revenue Officer at GoKwik, to dig into how WhatsApp can stop BFCM meltdowns and turn them into big money moments. From abandoned carts piling up to customers spamming “WHERE’S MY ORDER?!”, Abhishek explains why WhatsApp beats email and live chat when Black Friday chaos hits – and how smart brands are using it to recover revenue in minutes, not days. This isn’t theory. It’s WhatsApp in the trenches of BFCM. They cover:– How WhatsApp recovers 20%+ of abandoned carts faster than email– Real use cases: flipping angry refund requests into repeat purchases– Bots vs humans: who should handle peak-season chaos– How to train teams to turn complaints into loyalty– Always-on WhatsApp flows that drive repeat buys year-round– Case studies of brands adding six figures via WhatsApp This episode is for operators who are sick of abandoned cart emails being ignored, live chat collapsing mid-sale and customer support drowning under peak traffic. If you want practical, real-world WhatsApp strategies to make BFCM less painful (and more profitable) this one’s for you. About the Guest Abhishek Chandra, Chief Revenue Officer at GoKwik. Abhishek helps DTC and eCommerce brands across the globe use WhatsApp to drive conversions, recover revenue, and keep customers happy...even when Black Friday traffic is breaking everything else. About the Hosts Pete Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, obsessed with what actually works in eCommerce. Adam Pearce, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club®, professional shit-stirrer (his words) and CRO specialist. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic:👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #BFCM #BlackFriday #CyberMonday #WhatsApp #CustomerExperience #Retention #DTCGrowth #Shopify #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
12 Sept 20251h 1m
Ep. 29
Black Friday Done Right: BFCM Lessons from the Big Brands
In this episode, Pete is joined by Yasamine Beheshti, Group Head of eCommerce at Batra Group, to chat about how global brands like Juicy Couture, FILA, Hunter Boots and Reebok plan for Black Friday/Cyber Monday – without torching margins or losing their brand magic. From starting her career at Ralph Lauren straight out of university to running eCommerce for 7 international brands, Yasamine has seen the chaos, the curveballs and the wins of BFCM at scale. This isn’t another “50% off everything” playbook. It’s how the big brands really do it. They cover:– The biggest lessons Yasamine’s learned running BFCM across 7 global brands– Why blanket sitewide discounts are overrated (and what actually works)– Tactics for protecting margins while still driving volume– How to keep BFCM campaigns on-brand for premium labels like Juicy Couture– Practical plays for acquisition, retention and post-purchase flows– The most overrated vs. underrated BFCM tactics This episode is for operators who want to win Black Friday/Cyber Monday, not just survive it. If you’re tired of cookie-cutter discounting and want to see how big brands protect their margins, build brand moments, and still drive serious revenue—this one’s for you. About the Guest Yasamine Beheshti, Group Head of eCommerce at Batra Group. From eCommerce Assistant at Ralph Lauren to running global brands like Juicy Couture, FILA, Hunter Boots and now Reebok, Yasamine’s been at the frontlines of BFCM strategy for nearly a decade. About the Host Pete Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, obsessed with what actually works in eCommerce. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #BFCM #BlackFriday #CyberMonday #JuicyCouture #FILA #Shopify #MarginProtection #DTCGrowth #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
5 Sept 202550 min
Ep. 28
From Data to Revenue: Practical AI for Customer Experience & Analytics
In this episode, Pete teams up with guest co-host Rich Evans from Get Better to chat with Darren Lake, Head of CX & Marketing at Glazing Vision, about how AI is actually making customer service sharper, analytics faster, and CRM more powerful without losing the human touch. Darren shares how Glazing Vision is embedding AI into customer service, cutting hours out of manual processes, and turning messy data into insights that actually drive revenue. This isn’t hype. It’s AI in the trenches. They cover:– How AI can cut hours out of case studies and customer support– The truth about AI vs. automation vs. CRM (and why most people confuse them)– Personalisation: how to turn raw data into real revenue– Why “human + AI” always beats AI alone– The future of CX, analytics and AI-powered shopping assistants This episode is for any operator who’s tired of the AI hype and wants practical, real-world examples of AI delivering results today. If you’ve ever wondered how to actually make AI useful in eCommerce—this one’s for you. About the Guest Darren Lake, Head of CX & Marketing at Glazing Vision. From dial-up websites and pet franchises to leading CX in construction, Darren’s career has been all about using tech to improve customer experience. Today, he’s using AI to make analytics actionable and customer service smarter. About the Hosts Pete Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, obsessed with what actually works in eCommerce. Rich Evans, Founder of Get Better, email and retention specialist and long-time partner-in-crime to Pete. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #AIinEcommerce #CustomerExperience #Analytics #CRM #Automation #FounderStories #DTCGrowth #EcomGrowth #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
29 Aug 20251h 4m
Ep. 27
Selling Düng with Data – Marketing AI That Works
In this episode, Pete teams up with guest co-host Rich Evans from Get Better to chat with Danny Bull, founder of Düng Snacks, about how AI is actually making marketing sharper, faster and more profitable for challenger brands. Danny shares how Düng is punching above its weight, getting into all the right places, and freeing up more time for the creative work that really moves the needle. This isn’t hype. It’s AI in the trenches. They cover:– How AI is helping Düng Snacks scale without a huge team– The marketing jobs worth automating vs. keeping human– Picking AI tools that actually work for your brand– Personalising at scale without sounding like a robot– Balancing AI data with gut instinct– Why challenger brands can move faster (and smarter) with AI This episode is for any operator tired of AI “thought leadership” that doesn’t actually tell you what to do. If you want real-world examples of AI delivering results (and a few snack puns along the way) this one’s for you. About the GuestDanny Bull, Co-Founder of Düng Snacks. Former agency guy turned challenger snack brand builder, using AI to get his protein balls into inboxes, shop shelves and customers’ hands. About the HostsPete Gardner, Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, obsessed with what actually works in eCommerce. Rich Evans, Founder of Get Better, email and retention specialist and long-time partner-in-crime to Pete. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #AIinMarketing #ChallengerBrand #SnackBrand #Automation #RetentionMarketing #DTCGrowth #EcomGrowth #FounderStories #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
15 Aug 20251h 2m
Ep. 26
From Problem to People: Building a Community-Led Brand
In this episode, Pete and Adam sit down with Emma Burke, founder of LACEEZE LTD, to unpack what it really takes to build a brand that means something, not just sells something. From turning a personal frustration into a product to creating a fiercely loyal community around a niche problem, Emma shares the story of how LACEEZE became a brand people believe in, not just buy from. No gimmicks. No fake urgency. Just real connection and the long-game of loyalty. They cover:– How Emma turned a niche pain point into a brand with purpose– Why community is a foundation, not an afterthought– How customer feedback drives product, messaging and retention– The value of doing things that don’t scale (on purpose)– How to grow with your community — not just around it This episode is for any founder or marketer trying to build more than just a transactional business. If you're tired of chasing attention and ready to earn trust, Emma’s story is the permission slip (and the playbook) you’ve been waiting for. Spoiler: the best marketing strategy might just be belonging. About the GuestEmma Burke – Founder of LACEEZE. Product creator, community builder, and firm believer that great brands solve problems and bring people together. About the HostsPete Gardner & Adam Pearce, Founders of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, bringing honest insights and hard-earned lessons from the trenches of DTC growth. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #BrandCommunity #CXStrategy #LACEEZE #RetentionMarketing #CommunityLedGrowth #FounderStories #BelongingMatters #CustomerLoyalty #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
1 Aug 20251h 1m
Ep. 25
Forecasting Like a Fortune Teller With AI
In this episode, Pete and Adam sit down with Nick Moutter, founder of MOOT Group, to uncover how predictive analytics and AI are changing the way eCommerce brands scale. From rescuing brands like Houseology to building Ascend AI, Nick shares the hard-won lessons that keep stockouts, shrinking margins and chaos at bay – long before they bite. Forget guesswork. This is about making data your superpower. They cover: – How Nick scaled Olivia’s from a kitchen table to 8 figures– Why predictive analytics is the key to smarter growth– The biggest forecasting mistakes brands still make– How Ascend AI turns messy ops data into real insights– The future of AI in eCommerce (and what’s just hype) This episode is for any operator tired of flying blind. If you’re ready to protect margins, predict demand, and scale with less stress (and fewer “oh sh*t” moments), this one’s for you. Spoiler: growth isn’t luck, it’s data. About the GuestNick Moutter – Founder of MOOT Group. A serial eCom builder who’s scaled, rescued and reimagined brands using data and technology. Believer in solving problems before they start. About the HostsPete Gardner & Adam Pearce – Founders of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, bringing honest insights and hard-earned lessons from the trenches of DTC growth. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #PredictiveAnalytics #AIinEcommerce #CXStrategy #Forecasting #MOOTGroup #EcomGrowth #OpsStrategy #DataDriven #FounderStories #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
25 Jul 20251h 0m
Ep. 24
Post-Purchase Gold: How Edmunds Cocktails Keeps Customers Thirsty for More
In this episode, Pete and Adam sit down with Tom Mayes, co-founder of Edmunds Cocktails, to uncover what most brands miss after checkout—and how a great unboxing moment, a handwritten note, and a post-purchase flow that actually educates (not just sells) can turn casual customers into obsessed repeat buyers. From cocktail rituals to limited drops, Tom shares how his team builds loyalty without the hard sell—and why even your inserts deserve a bit of foil and flair. It’s thoughtful, scrappy, and wildly effective. Like a well-made Negroni. They cover: – Why post-purchase is a brand moment, not just an email– The ROI of handwritten notes (yes, still)– How to build CX that scales and feels personal– What brands get wrong about inserts– And why one great product experience is better than a dozen pushy upsells This episode is for any operator trying to turn first-time customers into brand fans—without discounting their dignity (or product). Spoiler: it’s about care, not just conversion. About the Guest Tom Mayes – Co-founder of Edmunds Cocktails. Ex-Heineken salesman turned DTC disruptor, fan of hand-labelling bottles and handwritten notes. Probably taste-tested more margaritas than you’ve had hot dinners. About the Hosts Pete Gardner & Adam Pearce – Founders of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, always asking what makes a customer actually come back for round two. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #RetentionMarketing #CXStrategy #CustomerExperience #PostPurchase #EdmundsCocktails #DTCGrowth #UnboxingExperience #HandwrittenNotes #BrandLoyalty #FounderStories #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
18 Jul 20251h 3m
Ep. 23
Thick Skin, Big Wins: Feedback That Actually Fuels Growth
In this episode, Adam sits down with Jodie Sanders, CMO of Pooky Lights, to unpack how smart brands turn customer feedback into gold – not just a colour-coded spreadsheet no one reads. From spicy Trustpilot reviews to DMs with more attitude than insight, Jodie shares how her team turns even the toughest feedback into sharper strategy, stronger products, and long-term loyalty. No sulking. Just growth. She’s candid, creative and wildly good at reading between the (angry) lines. They cover: – Why “we hate your packaging” is often more useful than “we love your brand”– What actually happens when you listen instead of panic– The product improvements Pooky made thanks to customer moans– When to engage vs. when to just… let them vent– And why you can’t build a great brand without a little humility (and thick skin) This episode is for any operator who’s ever flinched at a one-star review, wondered if feedback really fuels growth, or toyed with the idea of deleting Trustpilot altogether. Spoiler: it’s worth a listen. And listen well. About the Guest Jodie Sanders – CMO of Pooky Lights. Strategic CX queen, insight nerd, and firm believer that feedback is fuel even when it stings. About the Host Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, always on the hunt for what actually moves the needle. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #CustomerExperience #CXStrategy #PookyLights #JodieSanders #TrustpilotTruths #RetentionMarketing #BeautyBrands #MoansIntoMoney #FeedbackIsFuel #DTCGrowth #FounderStories #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
14 Jul 20251h 2m
Ep. 22
What Happens When Customers Complain (and You Actually Listen)
In this episode, Pete and Adam sit down with Amy Anzel, founder of Hollywood Browzer Beauty, to unpack what really happens when you stop avoiding complaints and start using them to grow. Amy’s taken her beauty brand from in-store demos to 20+ markets, built a fiercely loyal global customer base, and turned even the sharpest feedback into stronger retention and repeat sales. She’s sharp (literally), candid and doesn’t sugar-coat the realities of scaling – or what she really thinks of business reality TV... They cover: – Why your angriest customers are often your most valuable– What actually happens when you listen (instead of react)– How Hollywood Browzer used CX to drive international growth– The difference between moaners and meaningful insight– And why being too perfect can backfire in DTC This episode is for any eCom operator who’s ever rage-closed a Trustpilot tab, drafted a spicy response, or wondered if CX really makes a difference. (Spoiler: it does.) About the Guest Amy Anzel – Founder of Hollywood Browzer Beauty. Beauty boss, customer whisperer, and proud Apprentice alum with no time for fluff. About the Hosts Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, always on the hunt for what actually moves the needle. Peter Gardner – Co-founder of Blend Commerce, CRO obsessive, powered by oat flat whites and unfiltered honesty. Work with BlendNeed your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #CustomerExperience #CXStrategy #HollywoodBrowzer #AmyAnzel #RetentionMarketing #BeautyBrands #MoansIntoMoney #TheApprentice #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce #DTCGrowth #FounderStories #BrutalReviews #TrustpilotTruths
4 Jul 20251h 1m
Ep. 21
Profit Over Hype – How to Scale Without Burnout
In this episode, Adam and Pete sit down with Rob Manning, Director of DTC at Biotiful Gut Health, to unpack what it really takes to grow a brand in 2025 – without losing your margins, your team, or your mind. Rob’s helping lead one of the UK’s most recognisable gut health brands, balancing DTC and retail growth, keeping the team sane, and saying no to the chaos that trips so many brands up. He’s calm, candid, and knows exactly how to scale without falling for the usual nonsense. They cover: – Why profit-first growth is the new power move– The real difference between “busy” growth and smart growth– How to stay disciplined without going stale– What happens when you don’t chase every shiny channel– And why team culture is your most underrated growth lever This episode is for any eCom operator trying to grow in a messy market — and wanting to do it without burning out (or blowing up the bottom line). Rob Manning – Director of DTC & eCommerce at Biotiful Gut Health. Balancing brand building with margin protection, team sanity, and long-term thinking in a very short-term world. Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, always hunting for what actually moves the needle. Peter Gardner – Co-founder of Blend Commerce, CRO obsessive, powered by oat flat whites and unfiltered honesty. Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: 👉 https://blendcommerce.com/pages/metric-on-fire #eCommerce #BrandBuilding #ProfitFirst #SmartGrowth #CRO #TeamCulture #DTCBrands #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce #RobManning #Biotiful #GutHealth #FounderStories #FinancialDiscipline #SustainableScaling About the GuestAbout the HostsWork with Blend
27 Jun 20251h 1m
Ep. 20
How to Fund Your DTC Brand Without Killing Your Margins
In this episode, ex-pro tennis player turned DTC founder Jack Oswald joins Adam and Pete to unpack what it actually takes to grow a product brand without sacrificing margins, sanity, or control. Jack’s built Cancha, a modular bag brand now shipping globally, using a mix of bootstrapping, crowdfunding, fintech loans and angel investment. And he’s brutally honest about what worked…and what he’d never do again. They cover: – Why more money won’t fix messy operations – The real risks of seller-based financing (hello, margin drain) – How to test products without torching your cash – Building a brand your customers will actually fund – And how staying lean often leads to better decisions This episode is for anyone growing a DTC brand and wondering how to fund it without falling into a cashflow death-spiral. About the Guest Jack Oswald – Former pro athlete and founder of Cancha. Navigated bootstrapping, crowdfunding, and external capital (sometimes the hard way) to build a lean, growing DTC brand. About the Hosts Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, always hunting for what actually moves the needle. Peter Gardner – Co-founder of Blend Commerce, CRO obsessive, powered by oat flat whites and sharp takes. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like your margins depend on it? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: https://blendcommerce.com/ #eCommerce #StartupFunding #Crowdfunding #DTCGrowth #ShopifyCapital #AngelInvestment #Cashflow #Bootstrapping #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce #JackOswaldTurner #Kancha #FounderStories
20 Jun 20251h 0m
Ep. 19
How to Start, Scale & Sell Without Sacrificing Your Soul
What makes a business truly valuable – and what quietly destroys your shot at a clean exit? In this episode, Elizabeth Gooch MBE joins Adam and Pete to unpack what it really takes to grow, scale and sell a company that investors actually want to buy. She’s built a global tech brand, listed it on the London stock exchange, and now mentors founders who want to do the same – without falling into the usual traps. They cover: – The biggest mistakes founders make when chasing growth – What investors are really looking for (and it’s not just revenue) – The cap table decisions that haunt you at exit – How to build boardroom habits, even if you’re nowhere near IPO – And why she'd absolutely never sit on a board with no values This episode is for anyone who’s building something serious. Whether you’re raising, scaling, or just want to protect what you’ve built. About the Guest Elizabeth Gooch MBE – Founder, ex-CEO, and boardroom powerhouse. Took her own company from startup to IPO and now helps founders grow businesses worth buying. About the Hosts Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, always hunting for what actually moves the needle. Peter Gardner – Co-founder of Blend Commerce, CRO obsessive, powered by oat flat whites and sharp takes. Work with Blend Need your store to convert like a business worth buying? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: https://blendcommerce.com/ #StartupFunding #ExitStrategy #InvestorReady #DTCGrowth #ElizabethGoochMBE #BoardroomTips #eCommerce #FounderStories #CapTable #Valuation #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce
6 Jun 20251h 5m
Ep. 18
Build trust beyond the usual growth hacks
How do you turn browsers into loyal fans without a playbook full of tactics? In this episode, Finula Crowe, founder of New Day Originals, joins Rich Evans (standing in for Pete and Adam) to talk about building a fashion brand that’s rooted in real values, community, and story – not smoke and mirrors. They cover: – Why raw, real UGC builds more trust than glossy ads – What most brands get wrong about social proof – How Finula turned one lockdown idea into a cult-favourite, eco-led label – Why trust is the real conversion tool – And the content + community play that keeps customers coming back This episode is packed full of insights that’ll make you rethink what actually earns belief, as well as repeat buys. About the Guest Finula Crowe – Founder of New Day Originals. Ex-SaaS exec turned slow fashion rebel. Creating boho dresses with a conscience (and a loyal following to match). About the Host Rich Evans – Founder of Get Better, email obsessive, eCom Collab Club™ ride-or-die. Work with Blend Leaking trust (and sales) after someone lands on your page? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: [Insert Link] #Shopify #BrandTrust #DTC #SocialProof #EcommerceGrowth #FounderStories #RetentionMarketing #CustomerExperience #SlowFashion #CRO #UGC #NewDayOriginals #eComCollabClub #BlendCommerce #GetBetterEmailMarketing
30 May 20251h 10m
Ep. 17
15% More Revenue Without More Ads? Yep, It’s WhatsApp.
What actually drives conversions beyond the inbox? And what’s the right way to use WhatsApp without getting ghosted? In this episode, GoKwik's Chief Revenue Officer, Abhishek Chandra, joins Adam and Pete to unpack how DTC brands are turning WhatsApp into a proper revenue channel (not a spammy afterthought). They cover:– Why email and SMS are quietly losing their punch– How to use WhatsApp to recover 15–20% of abandoned carts– The flows that actually convert (and how to avoid rookie mistakes)– When bots make sense — and how to keep them feeling human– And the WhatsApp strategy that helped one UK brand hit £1M in a single day No fake urgency here. Just real tactics that’ll make you rethink your post-purchase game. Listen now and stop blaming your retention problems on your subject lines. About the Hosts Peter Gardner – Co-founder of Blend Commerce, CRO obsessive, speaks fluent “landing page”, powered by oat flat whites and sarcasm. Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, always on the hunt for what actually moves the needle in eCom. Work with Blend Need your store to stop leaking sales after “add to cart”? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: https://blendcommerce.com #Shopify #WhatsAppMarketing #eCommerceGrowth #DTC #CustomerExperience #RetentionMarketing #CRO #GoKwik #BlendCommerce #eComCollabClub #ConversionStrategy #AbandonedCartRecovery #ConversationalCommerce #FrictionlessCheckout
23 May 20251h 3m
Ep. 16
Reducing eCommerce Friction – No Site Rebuild Required
What actually slows customers down on their path to purchase? And what actually works to fix it? In this episode, ex-pro swimmer and Oshun founder, Joe Welstead, joins Adam and Pete to break down the real friction points that mess with your conversions. They cover: – Why your funnel probably isn’t the issue (yet) – When subscriptions don’t work (and what to do instead) – Small UX tweaks that made a big difference for Oshun – How emotional ROI (like skin compliments) drives repeat purchases – And why loyalty schemes can backfire for single-product brands Proper insights from a founder in the DTC trenches. Listen now and stop blaming your button colour. About the Hosts Peter Gardner – Co-founder of Blend Commerce, CRO obsessive, always up for a landing page audit (and probably a snack). Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, relentlessly focused on what actually moves the needle. Work with BlendNeed your store to stop leaking sales at the “almost-there” stage? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: https://blendcommerce.com #Shopify #FrictionlessCheckout #eCommerce #CustomerExperience #Subscriptions #Oshun #DTC #Retention #UXDesign #CRO #BlendCommerce #eComCollabClub
16 May 20251h 3m
Ep. 15
How to Fund Your eCom Brand (Without Screwing Yourself Later)
From panic loans to equity regret — most eCommerce founders wait until it’s too late to sort their finances. In this episode, Adam Pearce chats with Blake Bull from Finspire Finance to break down how to fund your brand the right way — whether you're scaling fast or just trying to stay afloat. They cover: – When funding becomes a must-have, not a nice-to-have – Debt vs equity vs revenue-based: what’s right for you – What lenders actually look for (and what they hate) – Hidden costs, cashflow killers & “wish I’d known” moments – Why getting funding-ready starts way before you need it No jargon. Just the finance chat every founder needs (but usually avoids). Tools Mentioned: • - Finspire Finance → https://finspirefinance.com - Omnisend email & SMS → https://www.omnisend.com/ecc/ (use code ECC30 for 30% off) - Join the eCom Collab Club community → https://ecomcollabclub.com/community - Need CRO help? Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com About the Host: Adam Pearce – Co-founder of Blend Commerce and eCom Collab Club™, known for turning founder panic into practical next steps. Need your brand to scale without relying on blind hope and credit cards? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: https://blendcommerce.com #Shopify #eCommerceFunding #DTC #Cashflow #CRO #Finance #FinspireFinance #BlendCommerce #eComCollabClub
16 May 20251h 1m
Ep. 14
Shopify × ChatGPT Just Made the Post-Purchase Experience Matter More Than Ever | eCom Collab Club 14
Peter Gardner sits down with Rich Evans to unpack the shockwave caused by the Shopify’s and ChatGPT integration. The pair explain why the moments after checkout have suddenly become prime real estate, how AI is rewriting the acquisition playbook, and which tools are already winning extra revenue for smart brands. You will hear plain-spoken stories, battle scars, and a step-by-step plan you can swipe today.Time-Stamped Chapters0:00 Intro and why post-purchase got a promotion3:05 How Shopify’s x ChatGPT changes buyer expectations8:20 The 30-minute to 48-hour “second-sale” window explained13:40 Order Editing: turning address panic into higher AOV18:30 Using AI prompts to personalise upsells on the fly23:15 Real-world test: +17 % AOV from a warranty add-on29:45 Trust, credibility, and fast refunds as conversion fuel34:10 Lightning Q&A: WhatsApp flows, one-click re-buys, loyalty hacks39:20 Peter’s three-step audit you can run this week42:00 Wrap-up and next stepsKey Takeaways- ChatGPT suggestions are shaping what customers expect after they pay.- The first 48 hours post-purchase deliver the cheapest extra revenue you will ever earn.- Order editing does more than fix typos – it unlocks upgrades, cross-sells, and peace of mind.- Pair AI-driven product picks with clear returns info to crush buyer’s remorse.- Start small: add a “change my order” button, test one personalised upsell, and track AOV.Tools Mentioned- Rebuy Engine – smart cross-sell and upsell widgets- OrderEditing.com – self-serve order changes that lift AOV- Relo App – replenishment flows that trigger at the perfect time- Omnisend - https://www.omnisend.com/ecc/ (use code ecc to get 30% off)About the HostsPeter Gardner – Co-founder of Blend Commerce, CRO obsessive, BBQ fanatic.Rich Evans – Senior Strategist at Blend Commerce, post-purchase wizard.Work with BlendReady to turn one-time buyers into loyal fans? Book a free “Metric on Fire” diagnostic: https://blendcommerce.comTags#Shopify #ChatGPT #Ecommerce #PostPurchase #CRO #OrderEditing #Rebuy #DTC #BlendCommerce
6 May 20251h 16m
Ep. 13
Luxury Upsells that Lift AOV (ft. Lorna Patterson)
Learn how to raise basket size without tanking conversion rates. Luxury e-commerce lead Lorna Patterson shares real-world upsell, cross-sell and bundling tactics that grew AOV and LTV for Dior, Chantecaille and more.Episode summaryIn this chat, hosts Peter Gardner and Adam Pearce pick Lorna’s brain on: • The “shop-the-look” framework that converts first-time buyers • Why fewer shade options beat “choice overload” in cosmetics • Setting free-shipping and free-gift tiers that actually lift revenue • Using Rebuy, Yotpo loyalty and mini-product trials for painless upsells • Post-purchase nudges that grow repeat sales (and the one tactic she’d banish) • Rebuy Smart Cart – https://rebuyengine.com • Yotpo Loyalty – https://www.yotpo.com • Airwallex global payments – https://airwallex.com • OmniSend email & SMS – https://www.omnisend.com/ecc/ (use code ECC-THIRTY for 30 % off) 00:00 Intro & payment-pain rant 01:45 Meet Lorna Patterson (ex-Dior, Chantecaille) 05:22 Upselling in luxury: storytelling over “hard sell” 11:40 Spotting AOV lifts vs. hurting CR% 16:05 Bundles 101 – bestseller + fast-repeat skew 23:30 Free-shipping bar: why 2 tiers beat 3 27:55 Gifts that stick: picking the right “trial” product 32:40 Tech stack – Rebuy, Yotpo, quizzes 38:15 Post-purchase emails that double loyalty sign-ups 42:00 Biggest upsell fails (mugs & dusty stock) 47:05 Quick-fire round & key takeaways 50:45 Adam & Peter wrap-up: when *not* to upsell 53:30 Sponsor shout-outs & next episode teaserResources & linksJoin the eCom Collab Club community → https://ecomcollabclub.com/communityNeed CRO help? Blend Commerce → https://blendcommerce.com👍 Like, 🔔 subscribe and drop your biggest upsell question below.#Ecommerce #CRO #Upselling #Shopify #AOV
6 May 20251h 8m
Ep. 12
Ecommerce Personalisation 2025: Shopify & AI Hacks That Don’t Feel Creepy
Sick of emails that say “Hi [First Name]” and call it personalisation? Tom Gatenby (Squash Pixel) shows how to turn the data you already hold into loyalty-boosting experiences that feel human, not stalkerish. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & Sponsor shout-outs 02:10 The classic personalisation fail and why it annoys customers 09:30 Using purchase history to trigger smarter follow-ups 16:45 Free or cheap tools any Shopify store can use today 24:10 Letting AI crunch your reviews to find killer copy 31:20 VIP perks that beat point-chasing loyalty schemes 38:55 Stop calling people “bronze customers” – reward them silently 46:00 The Chewy example – a bouquet, a refund, a customer for life 56:30 Quick-fire Q&A: best and worst real-world examples 59:40 Where to find Tom & Squash Pixel 1:00:35 Wrap-up and next steps Top Takeaways • First-name merge tags ≠ personalisation. Add context or skip it. • Segment by behaviour, not guesswork. “Bought twice in 90 days” is gold. • AI is your data intern: feed it reviews, harvest language customers use. • Early access and free shipping tiers build loyalty with zero point math. • Little gestures (like Chewy’s sympathy flowers) turn buyers into fans. Guest Tom Gatenby – Founder & Technical Lead, Squash Pixel (Shopify experts since 2009) Links & Resources Squash Pixel: https://squashpixel.co.ukEcom Collab Club community: https://ecomcollabclub.com/communityOmniSend (30 % off with code ECC-30): https://omnisend.com/ECCAirwallex: https://airwallex.com
23 Apr 202559 min
Ep. 11
Are you still losing sales at Checkout? Get the secrets to a seamless eCommerce Checkout experience!
In this episode of the Ecom Collab Club podcast, hosts Adam Pearce and Peter Gardner engage with Ben Hornby from Airwallex to explore the complexities of the e-commerce checkout process. They discuss the importance of native checkout experiences, the impact of payment methods on conversion rates, and the challenges of international sales, including currency conversion and local payment preferences. The conversation also touches on the rise of buy now, pay later options, the necessity of adapting to consumer expectations, and the role of AI in enhancing customer support. The episode concludes with audience questions, providing further insights into optimizing e-commerce operations.Takeaways • 77% of shoppers abandon carts without preferred payment methods. • Native checkout experiences significantly improve conversion rates. • Card declines can severely impact e-commerce sales. • Understanding local payment preferences is essential for international sales. • Apple Pay can increase conversion rates by up to 3x. • Buy now, pay later options are becoming essential for younger consumers. • E-commerce brands must adapt to changing consumer expectations. • AI can enhance customer support and streamline operations. • Data-driven insights can help optimize checkout processes. • Consolidating payment providers can simplify e-commerce operations. Chapters00:00 Introduction to E-commerce Challenges03:04 Understanding Checkout Friction Points05:46 The Importance of Native Checkout Experiences08:51 Data-Driven Insights for Checkout Optimization11:47 The Silent Killer: Card Declines and Acceptance Rates14:51 Navigating Currency Conversion and International Payments17:42 Local Payment Preferences and Their Impact20:51 The Role of Buy Now Pay Later in E-commerce23:51 Must-Have Payment Methods for E-commerce Success32:20 The Evolution of Payment Methods39:22 Enhancing Merchant Communication and Feedback46:35 The Importance of Customer Support in E-commerce51:59 The Role of AI in Customer Experience58:14 Optimizing Checkout Experiences for E-commerce
15 Apr 202559 min
Ep. 10
Returns = Loyalty? Handling Post-Purchase Returns with Priya Downes, CEO of NUDEA
Summary In this episode of the Ecom Collab Club podcast, hosts Adam Pearce and Peter Gardner discuss the challenges of returns in e-commerce with Priya Downs, founder of Nudea. They explore the reasons behind returns, the impact of product quality, and strategies to reduce return rates. Priya shares her insights from the lingerie industry, emphasizing the importance of sizing tools and customer education. The conversation also touches on sustainability and the future of e-commerce, highlighting the need for brands to take responsibility for end-of-life products. The episode concludes with audience questions and practical advice for managing returns effectively. Takeaways Returns are a significant challenge for e-commerce businesses. Quality and accurate sizing can greatly reduce return rates. Investing in customer education is essential for long-term success. Sustainability practices, like recycling, can enhance brand loyalty. Understanding customer feedback is crucial for product improvement. Returns can erode brand value if not managed properly. Offering exchanges instead of refunds can retain customers. The e-commerce landscape is shifting towards quality over quantity. Brands must adapt to changing consumer expectations regarding returns. Building a relationship with customers can lead to repeat business. Sound Bites "Returns are part of online business." "We need to educate customers on fit." "Sustainability is crucial in fashion." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the E-commerce Landscape 01:15 Understanding Returns in E-commerce 04:45 The Journey of Nudea: A Sustainable Approach 09:54 Quality vs. Fast Fashion: The Consumer Shift 13:42 Innovative Solutions to Reduce Returns 18:54 Building Trust and Customer Loyalty 19:22 The Evolution of Fitting Services 22:22 Addressing Returns and Customer Experience 25:31 Innovative Solutions for Reducing Returns 29:25 The Impact of Charging for Returns 32:39 Leveraging Customer Feedback for Improvement 39:50 Understanding Returns: The Balancing Act 40:53 Key Moments in the Returns Process 42:51 The Importance of Easy Returns for Online Brands 44:21 Sustainability and End-of-Life Products 45:39 Educating Customers on Sustainable Practices 48:59 Legislation and Responsibility in E-commerce 49:53 Sizing Challenges for International Customers 52:01 Building Returns into Margins 54:10 No Questions Asked Return Policies 55:01 Handling Serial Returners 57:23 Worst Return Experiences 58:42 Closing Thoughts and Customer Engagement
2 Apr 202559 min
Ep. 9
Managing Customer Expectations: What Brands Always Get Wrong (and What Customers Actually Want)
Customers expect a lot…and, honestly, they’re not wrong to. But, between clunky websites to customer service that feels like it’s operated by a robot, too many brands still fumble it spectacularly. Charlotte Aytan, Director of inclusive sportswear brand TLC Sport, knows all about what customers actually care about, as well as where brands keep getting it wrong. From customer service clichés that need to die to the tiny (but mighty) details that turn browsers into buyers, Charlotte spills the tea on how she helped transform an old-school catalog business into a thriving eCommerce brand without losing its soul. The secret wasn’t in fancy ads or flashy branding. It was in understanding what customers actually care about (which ain’t your perfectly curated Instagram aesthetic, boo). We also dive into: • The biggest blunders brands make before the sale even happens • Why most product descriptions are snooze-worthy (and how to fix them) • The myth of “pretty” websites and why they don’t always convert • The cold, hard truth about customer loyalty (erm, you’re probably doing it wrong – soz) • What customers really want after they’ve checked out If you want to turn one-time buyers into lifelong fans, it’s all about setting (and actually meeting) their expectations. This episode is packed with tips to break down exactly how to do it. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✔️ Why fancy websites don’t always equal more sales ✔️ How to sell your brand’s value without overhyping ✔️ The biggest customer service mistakes (and how to avoid them) ✔️ How to turn negative reviews into a win ✔️ When loyalty programs are genius vs when they’re just noise 📌 VideoWise – Embedding video testimonials to drive conversions 📌 ConversionWise – Why copywriting makes or breaks your product pages 📌 ChatGPT for eCommerce – Using AI to refine product messaging 📌 OmniSend – How email & SMS marketing actually drive sales 📌 Revo – Building a retention program customers care about 00:00 Welcome to the eCom Collab Club Podcast 00:38 Introducing our guest: Charlotte Aytan 02:42 How Charlotte went from law graduate to eCom Big Dog 08:10 The struggles of transitioning from offline to online retail 12:05 What brands get wrong about customer expectations 18:50 How Charlotte revamped product descriptions for better conversions 26:40 Website design myths: Why "sexy" doesn’t always sell 33:15 The sneaky checkout mistakes that kill conversions 41:00 The role of trust signals: Reviews, UGC & video proof 48:12 Customer service cliches that need to die 55:30 Handling bad reviews: The right way to respond 01:03:15 Loyalty programs vs. customer experience – what really drives repeat sales? 01:12:40 Charlotte’s top three rules for bulletproofing your CX strategy 🎯 OmniSend – Email & SMS marketing made easy. 🎯 AirWallex – The payments solution for international brands. 👥 Join the eCom Collab Club™️ Community: www.ecomcollabclub.com/community 🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn: Peter Gardner | Adam Pearce 🎙 Charlotte Aytan – Director of TLC Sport 🌐 TLC Sport – www.tlcsport.com 📺 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@eComCollabClub Tools & Strategies Mentioned:Time Stamps:Shoutouts & Sponsors:Connect with Us:Connect with Our Guest:Watch More eCom Collab Club™️ Podcast Episodes Here:💬 Loved this episode? Drop a comment and let us know your biggest takeaway! 🚀
17 Mar 20251h 17m
Ep. 8
The Truth About Customer Loyalty: Why Most Retention Strategies Fail
Customer Loyalty: One-Night Stand or Long-Term Thing? Most brands treat customer loyalty like a one-off hook-up: flash a discount, hope for the best, and wonder why customers never call back. But building customer loyalty isn’t as simple as setting up a points program. In this episode, Sarah Welsh, Co-Founder and CPO of HANX, shares what really keeps customers coming back, why traditional loyalty programs often miss the mark, and how HANX is driving repeat purchases without gimmicks. We also dive into: • Why traditional loyalty programs are the equivalent of a bad pick-up line • The real reason customers stay loyal (hint: it’s not discounts) • How to create an experience so good, they keep coming back for more • The emotional vs. habitual side of customer behaviour • Why sex ed for adults is part of their customer experience (and why it works so well) • Personalisation, UGC & community – when it works and when it’s just creepy • What brands get so wrong about community-building If you’re running an eCommerce brand and looking to retain customers without annoying them, this episode is a must-listen. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✔️ The real customer behaviors that drive repeat purchases ✔️ How to use surprise & delight tactics for retention ✔️ When subscription models work (and when they don’t) ✔️ Why DTC brands should rethink traditional loyalty programs ✔️ How UGC, reviews & brand collaborations impact retention ✔️ The biggest mistakes brands make in customer loyalty Tools & Strategies Mentioned: • Lifetimely – For tracking LTV & retention insights • Personalized Email & SMS – Why brands should focus on relationship marketing • Subscription Retention Tactics – Why HANX doesn’t lock in customers • Brand-Led Events – How they engage customers beyond the purchase • AI & Data Segmentation – When AI helps, and when it crosses the line Time Stamps: 00:00 Welcome to the eCom Collab Club Podcast00:42 Introducing our guest: Dr Sarah Welsh03:15 From Doctor to DTC Founder – Sarah’s Journey07:45 What does customer loyalty REALLY mean?12:58 The subscription dilemma: Habit vs. Emotion18:32 How HANX personalises customer experience23:50 Why they don’t have a traditional loyalty program30:21 The impact of brand collaborations & partnerships37:10 How they use customer reviews & UGC41:24 Customer psychology & segmentation for retention47:36 AI, personalisation & ethical data collection53:15 Sarah’s take on eCommerce loyalty myths01:02:42 Final thoughts & biggest takeaways Shoutouts & Sponsors: Omnisend – Email & SMS marketing so good, it’s boring Retail Fest 2025 – Australia’s must-attend eCommerce event Connect with Us: 📢 Subscribe & Follow: 🔗 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube 🎧 Join the Ecom Collab Club Community 👉 www.ecomcollabclub.com/community 🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn: Peter Gardner | Adam Pearce | Rich Evans Connect with Our Guest: Sarah Welsh – Co-Founder and CPO @ HANX HANX – HANX 📩 Follow Sarah – Sarah Welsh Watch More eCom Collab Club™️ Podcast Episodes Here: https://www.youtube.com/@eComCollabClub Loved this episode? Drop a comment and let us know your biggest takeaway! 📊
10 Mar 20251h 14m
Ep. 7
Turning Packaging into Marketing: The Secret to Customer Engagement & Loyalty
In this episode, we dive deep into the overlooked but crucial aspect of e-commerce: the last mile experience. Our guest, Steve, the founder of Uncle Matt’s Hats, shares how packaging, fulfillment, and post-purchase engagement can elevate a brand and create organic marketing opportunities. From using ice cream tubs as packaging to building a movement around mental health, Steve’s approach to e-commerce is nothing short of innovative. We also explore how e-commerce brands can rethink their value proposition, avoid chasing trends, and focus on differentiation. Key Topics Covered: • [00:00] Introduction and why we don’t do corporate jargon or fluff marketing • [02:10] The underestimated last mile and why it matters • [04:20] Introducing Steve: The journey behind Uncle Matt’s Hats • [08:45] From CEO to founder: Steve’s background in e-commerce • [12:30] The personal story behind Uncle Matt’s Hats and its mission for mental health awareness • [20:00] The role of packaging in branding: How an ice cream tub became an unforgettable unboxing experience • [26:45] Why most brands view packaging as an expense instead of a marketing tool • [30:15] Creating an emotional connection through product presentation • [35:00] How Uncle Matt’s Hats builds organic UGC through packaging and fulfilment • [40:25] Building a brand community: The importance of authenticity and storytelling • [46:00] The balance between consulting and running a brand • [50:30] How e-commerce brands can create differentiation in a crowded market • [55:10] The importance of final-mile customer touchpoints • [58:40] Steve’s take on what e-commerce trends to embrace and which to avoid • [1:05:00] Audience Q&A: The weirdest unboxing reactions, collaborations, and future plans • [1:15:00] Final thoughts and where to find Uncle Matt’s Hats Key Takeaways: • Your last-mile experience can make or break customer loyalty. • Thoughtful packaging can be a conversation starter and free marketing tool. • Authenticity in branding leads to deeper customer connections. • Differentiation is key—focus on what only your brand can offer. • Community building starts with understanding your customers beyond just the product. Resources & Community: • Follow Uncle Matt’s Hats: https://unclemattshats.com/ • Join The Ecom Collab Club community: http://www.ecomcollabclub.com/community Next Episode Teaser: Stay tuned for our next episode, where we explore the role of personalization in e-commerce and how brands can leverage data to create hyper-targeted customer experiences. Final Message: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review The Ecom Collab Club Podcast. Your support helps us bring in more insightful guests and valuable discussions. See you next time!
3 Mar 20251h 22m
Ep. 6
Why Most eCommerce Brands Suck at Retention: A Knockout Conversation with Grenade’s Cameron Goldie
We got Cameron Goldie, Head of eCommerce at Grenade, in the hot seat to chat no-BS ecommerce truths—why most brands screw up retention, how to actually use data without chasing meaningless vanity metrics, and what Grenade does differently to stay ahead. We’re talking AI, customer psychology, retention strategies that actually work, and why Cameron sees himself as Rocky Balboa in the ecommerce ring. If you’re a founder, marketer, or just tired of generic “data-driven” BS, this one’s for you. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: ✅ The vanity metrics brands love but shouldn’t ✅ Why customer acquisition isn’t the win—retention is ✅ How Grenade uses AI & data to make smarter decisions ✅ The power of free giveaways (yes, giving stuff away CAN make you money) ✅ Why most loyalty programs are a joke (and what to do instead) ✅ Underrated growth channels—direct mail, referrals & more ✅ The real fight: How ecommerce is a never-ending Rocky montage 🛠️ Tools & Strategies We Talk About: • RFM Segmentation – stop marketing like every customer is the same • AI-powered data modelling – use it properly, not just for the sake of it • Direct Mail & Surprise and Delight – old-school tactics that work • Trust pilot & NPS Scores – real insights over corporate fluff • Customer “Playground” Model – why the funnel is DEAD ⏳ Time Stamps: 00:00 🚀 Welcome to the E Com Collab Club Podcast 00:18 👋 Meet Rich Evans & Cameron Goldie 01:33 🛍️ Retail Fest 2025—Why You Need to Be There 02:52 🎤 Cameron on Data-Driven Marketing 06:42 📊 What Brands Get Wrong About Data 08:14 🔥 The Real Value of Customer Engagement 13:32 🎁 Surprise & Delight—Why It Works 18:45 ⚖️ Data Deathmatch: Qualitative vs. Quantitative 24:24 🧠 Customer Psychology & Buying Behaviour 28:56 🎯 Attracting High-Value Customers (Not Just Anyone) 34:06 💰 How to Test Ads & Channels Without Wasting Cash 40:32 📦 The Post-Purchase Strategy That Actually Works 43:26 🔄 Retention Strategies That Don’t Suck 46:58 🤖 AI in eCommerce—Hype vs. Reality 53:06 🛠️ The “What If We Lost All Our Data” Challenge 57:07 🚫 The Worst Marketing Trends & Buzzwords 01:02:47 🚀 The Most Underrated Growth Channels 01:07:03 🎬 Final Thoughts & Takeaways 🚀 Call to Action: 👉 Subscribe to the E Com Collab Club Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube 👉 Join the E Com Collab Club Community:www.ecomcollabclub.com/community 👉 Follow us on LinkedIn:Peter Gardner) | Adam Pearce 👥 Connect with Our Guest: Cameron Goldie🚀 Head of eCommerce @ Grenade 🔗 Cameron Goldie 🌐 Grenade 📢 Sponsors & Shout outs: 💡 Omnisend – The only email & SMS tool you need. Get 30% off with code ECC30. 💡 Retail Fest 2025 – The ultimate eCommerce & retail event in Australia. 👀 Watch the Full Episode on YouTube📺https://www.youtube.com/@eComCollabClub 💬 Loved this episode? Drop a comment and tell us your biggest takeaway!
24 Feb 20251h 27m
Ep. 5
Unlocking the Power of Qualitative Data with Pedram Mehrshahi
In this episode of the eCom Collab Club Podcast, host Peter Gardner and Adam Pearce sit down with Pedram Mehrshahi, co-founder of KLORIS.CO, to explore the game-changing impact of qualitative data on e-commerce success. They discuss how brands can collect and implement customer insights to improve conversions, retention, and brand loyalty. Pedram shares how KLORIS has built a premium wellness brand by prioritizing direct customer feedback through personal engagement, including phone calls, surveys, and on-site experiences. Key Takeaways: • Why do most e-commerce brands collect customer data but don’t know how to use it effectively? • The role of qualitative data in shaping product development, UX improvements, and marketing strategies. • How speaking directly to customers drives loyalty and builds a strong brand community. • The dangers of over-reliance on discounts and why gifting and bundling work better. • How Chloris balances brand vision with customer feedback to stay true to its mission. Guest: Pedram Meshahi – Co-founder of Chloris, a leading wellness brand turning customer insights into brand experiences that drive revenue. Find him on LinkedIn: Pedram Meshahi Chloris Website:www.KLORIS.CO Timestamps: • 00:00 – Introduction and episode overview • 05:30 – Pedram’s journey into e-commerce and the founding of KLORIS • 15:00 – Why customer data often goes unused in e-commerce • 22:45 – The power of direct conversations with customers • 32:00 – Using qualitative insights to improve conversion rates • 40:30 – Scaling a premium brand without over-reliance on discounts • 50:15 – How Chloris personalizes the customer journey effectively • 01:00:00 – Final thoughts and actionable tips for brands Resources Mentioned: • KLORIS Wellness Products:www.KLORIS.CO • Retail Fest 2025 Tickets: retailglobal.com.au • OmniSend Email & SMS Marketing: www.omnisend.com Call to Action: • Subscribe to Ecom Collab Club Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. • Join the Ecom Collab Club Community: www.ecomcollabclub.com/community • Connect with us on LinkedIn: Peter Gardner) | Adam Pearce Next Episode Teaser: Next week, we dive into the latest trends in e-commerce automation and how AI is reshaping the industry. Stay tuned!
18 Feb 20251h 30m
Ep. 4
The Great eCommerce Debate aka FIGHT
In this episode of theeCC Podcast, hostsAdam Pearce andPeter Gardner go head-to-head on the biggest debates in e-commerce.Rich Evans, co-host of eCC London and founder of Get Better, joins the conversation, bringing his own perspective to the fight. This is where the usual marketing advice gets challenged. We tackle: • CRO – A game-changer or just another overhyped metric? • Email marketing – Still a powerhouse, or past its prime? • Branding and packaging – Essential for growth, or just an expensive add-on? • Loyalty programs – A real retention driver, or just another discount scheme? • Paid ads – A long-term strategy or a business crutch? Strong opinions, real-world experience, and a debate that cuts through the noise. Listen now and decide where you stand. Takeaways • CRO is essential for guiding customers through the buying process. • Email marketing remains a vital channel, despite claims of its decline. • A strong brand story can differentiate a product in a crowded market. • Customer service is crucial, even when customers are wrong. • Loyalty programs need to be more than just discount schemes to be effective. • Relying solely on paid ads is not a sustainable business model. • Branding is important for long-term growth and customer loyalty. • Packaging can enhance brand perception and customer experience. • Great copy is more important than great design in e-commerce. • Understanding conversion rates requires context; averages can be misleading. Sound Bites • "Email marketing is not dying, it's evolving." • "Branding is essential for long-term success." • "Great copy sells, great design makes it pretty." Chapters • 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Format • 02:33 Contrarian Statements: The Role of CRO • 06:01 Email Marketing: Is It Dying? • 10:48 The Importance of Brand Storytelling • 14:55 Customer Service: The Customer Isn't Always Right • 17:37 Loyalty Programs: More Than Just Discounts • 21:32 The Role of Paid Ads in Business Sustainability • 28:19 The Role of Email Marketing in E-commerce • 29:17 Contrarian Views on Growth in E-commerce • 30:16 The Future of TikTok and Its Impact • 34:06 The Debate on Discounts in E-commerce • 42:44 The Misconception of Personalization • 49:23 The Importance of Packaging in Branding • 57:10 Data Management in Klaviyo • 59:49 Navigating E-commerce Tools and Platforms • 01:00:27 Building a Brand Without Ads • 01:03:27 The Importance of User-Generated Content • 01:04:17 Evaluating Marketing Spend Effectiveness • 01:06:02 Conversion Rates vs. Average Order Value • 01:10:04 The Dangers of Contradictory Advice • 01:15:14 Authenticity in Influencer Marketing • 01:17:07 Quickfire Questions: Profit vs. Growth • 01:21:43 The Debate: Great Copy vs. Great Design
11 Feb 20251h 23m
Ep. 3
Influencer Marketing: Printing Money or Lighting It on Fire?
Alright, this episode is a big one! We’re talking Influencer Marketing in eCom—and let’s be honest, it’s either printing money or lighting it on fire. So, we brought in Conor Jaafari from Cozy Crew Club—a guy who’s been in the trenches, tested what works, and seen firsthand what doesn’t. He’s breaking down: ✅ What actually moves the needle in influencer marketing ✅ How to build real relationships (and not just throw free products into the void) ✅ The biggest money-wasting traps brands fall into ✅ Why most influencer partnerships fail—and how to fix it ✅ The AI shift: How automation is creeping into the influencer world Then, once Conor’s out, Peter and Adam break it all down. 🔥 What stood out 🔥 Where brands are getting it wrong 🔥 How influencer marketing actually fits into a CRO & retention strategy And of course, we’re diving straight into The Good, The Bad, and The Scary — breaking down the latest eCom news and what’s actually worth paying attention to. Buckle up, babes — this one’s got some real spicy sh*t. 🌶 🚀 Micro-influencers = better ROI (engagement > vanity metrics) 🚀 Stop relying on influencer one-offs. Long-term relationships drive real sales. 🚀 Gifting can backfire. It’s not free marketing if no one actually posts about it. 🚀 Community engagement is king. The brands winning are the ones that build relationships. 🚀 AI is coming. From fake influencers to automated UGC, the landscape is shifting. 🚀 Your website needs to be ready. Influencer traffic without CRO = money down the drain. 🚀 Know your audience. If your influencer’s followers don’t align, you’re wasting your budget. 💬 "You have to use your community where you can." 💬 "Micro-influencers often outperform big names." 💬 "That’s probably the worst experience we’ve had." 00:00 – Intro: Influencer marketing—goldmine or dumpster fire? 01:10 – Conor’s journey with Cozy Crew Club 03:12 – The influencer marketing trap most brands fall into 05:44 – The do’s & don’ts of gifting (and when it’s just a waste) 09:07 – Building relationships with influencers for long-term ROI 10:54 – Should you go in-house or use an agency for influencer marketing? 11:49 – Crafting outreach messages that don’t get ignored 13:45 – Why authenticity is the only way to win in 2025 16:42 – Influencer marketing & sales—what actually converts? 19:06 – The balance between brand control and creative freedom 21:02 – Influencer pricing: How much should you really pay? 24:30 – UGC: Why it’s influencer marketing’s secret weapon 26:21 – When influencer partnerships go wrong (horror stories included) 29:05 – Red flags to watch out for in influencer deals 31:16 – Expanding internationally? How to localize your influencer strategy 34:02 – Setting standards for influencers—what brands should expect 36:22 – The best tools for tracking influencer campaign performance 40:46 – Budgeting: Influencer marketing vs. traditional paid ads 42:25 – How influencer marketing is evolving in 2025 44:51 – Future plans for Cozy Crew Club 46:10 – Peter & Adam’s debrief: What eCom brands NEED to know 49:18 – Busting influencer marketing myths 52:26 – Case study: A brand that actually nailed influencer collaborations 01:06:07 – How influencer marketing impacts brand perception 01:08:55 – Micro vs. macro influencers: The never-ending debate 01:13:22 – The rise of AI influencers & what it means for eCom 01:19:58 – AI-generated influencer content: Smart move or gimmick? 01:29:24 – The latest in eCom: The Good, The Bad & The Scary Subscribe, drop a review, and let us know what influencer marketing topic you want us to tackle next! #eCommerceMarketing #InfluencerMarketing #UGC #DTCGrowth #BrandBuilding #AIinMarketing #CRO #CommunityMarketing #Shopify #SocialCommerce #MarketingTactics
31 Jan 20251h 31m
Ep. 2
SEO for eCommerce in 2025: AI, Organic Growth, and Authenticity in a New Era
SEO’s dead. AI’s taking over. Video is the only thing that ranks anymore. Heard all that crap before? Yeah, us too. That’s why in this episode, Peter Gardner and Adam Pearce sit down with Jonathan Turton, eCommerce Manager at Avery Row, to cut through the sh*te and give you the Real McCoy on SEO in 2025. Here’s what you’ll get: • Why SEO is not dead (and never will be... stop crying about it). • How to punch above your weight with short-form video and social media synergy. • The secret sauce for measuring SEO ROI (without pulling your hair out). • Why building solid agency relationships can make or break your strategy. After Jonathan leaves the virtual stage, Peter and Adam break it all down, ranting about: • Why slow websites kill conversions (and your bank account). • How writing for robots instead of people will make users bounce, and your wallet hurt. • The never-ending blame game between SEO and CRO teams (and why it’s time to end it). If you’re an eCommerce brand ready to stop making excuses and start making moves, this episode is your wake-up call. Trust us, you’ll want to take notes. Takeaways from the Episode: • SEO isn’t dead. Stop believing the LinkedIn doom-posters. It’s still the move for driving organic traffic. • AI is shaking things up, but it’s not magic. Learn how to play with it, don’t rely on it to do all the work. • A solid agency relationship isn’t just nice, it’s essential. Treat them like a partner, not a vending machine. • Measuring ROI from SEO might feel like trying to herd cats, but it’s non-negotiable. Get it done. • Technical SEO = low-hanging fruit. Fix your site speed and clean up your code before chasing flashy trends. • If video content isn’t part of your strategy, you’re leaving money on the table. Start now. • Authenticity isn’t a buzzword, it’s how you win trust and keep customers coming back. • Search Console is your best mate. Learn it, use it, love it. • If your SEO and CRO teams don’t talk, you’re burning money. Collaboration isn’t optional. Sound Bites • "SEO is definitely still worth it." • "Building trust is not a nice to have." • "You need to clean up your code base." Chapters • 00:00 Introduction to SEO and E-commerce • 04:41 The Evolution of SEO: Is It Dead? • 08:12 The Role of Video in SEO • 10:23 Agency Relationships and SEO Strategy • 12:56 Measuring SEO ROI • 15:11 Building a Strong Backlink Profile • 19:55 Crafting Content for SEO Success • 23:17 Collaboration Across Teams for Product Launches • 26:50 AI's Impact on SEO • 31:51 Getting Started with SEO • 38:44 The Future of E-commerce SEO • 43:20 Short Form vs Long Tail Keywords • 44:39 Tech Debt and Site Optimization • 47:20 The Importance of Site Speed • 51:13 AI in E-commerce: Embracing Change • 55:48 Navigating Tariffs and Pricing Strategies • 01:04:31 Building Trust in E-commerce • 01:15:55 Influencer Marketing Trends #eCommerceSEO #SEOin2025 #AIandSEO #CROvsSEO #VideoMarketing #DigitalGrowth #OrganicTraffic #eCommerceStrategy #SEOTrends #ContentStrategy #TeamCollaboration #DTCBrands #eComCollabClub #SEOWins #TechSEO
24 Jan 20251h 17m
Ep. 1
Social Media's impact on eCommerce: Authenticity, Transparency, and Founder / Employee Generated Content (EGC)
In this episode of the eCom Collab Club Podcast, Peter and Adam host Sam and Julian from Batch LDN, to discuss their journey from concept to a successful fashion brand. They explore the sustainability challenges in the fashion industry, the impact of celebrity endorsements, and the importance of authenticity in influencer marketing. The conversation also touches on the significance of physical retail in e-commerce and actionable social media strategies for fellow entrepreneurs. The episode concludes with insights on future growth plans and the evolving landscape of online and offline retail. TAKEAWAYS: - Batch London was born out of a need for casual suits. - Sustainability is a core value, focusing on made-to-order production. - Celebrity endorsements can enhance brand credibility but may not directly drive sales. - Authenticity in influencer marketing is crucial for success. - Physical retail plays a significant role in building trust and validating the brand. - The brick incident turned into a successful marketing campaign. - LinkedIn is a powerful platform for building brand awareness. - Transparency about challenges fosters community support. - Future growth will focus on consolidating efforts in both online and offline spaces. - Engaging content and storytelling are key to connecting with customers. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction to Ecom Collab Club Podcast 01:31 - The Birth of Batch London 04:13 - Navigating the Startup Grind 08:01 - Sustainability in Fashion 12:05 - The Power of Authenticity 16:11 - Celebrity Endorsements and Their Impact 20:50 - The Brick Incident: A Marketing Opportunity 27:12 - The Role of Brick-and-Mortar in E-commerce 31:20 - Strategies for Online Conversion 39:08 - Introduction to Omnisend and Campaigns 39:26 - 2025 Vision: Consolidation and Growth 41:09 - Leveraging LinkedIn for Business Success 45:26 - Funding and Financial Strategies for Startups 47:49 - Challenges in Fashion Marketing and Inclusivity 50:04 - Sustainability in Fashion: A Long-Term Approach 52:15 - The Importance of Authenticity in Branding 56:04 - Recap of the Econ Club Event 01:06:21 - The Role of Personal Branding in Business 01:10:08 - Micro-Influencers vs. Traditional Influencers 01:14:40 - Closing Thoughts and Future Engagements eCom Collab Club, Batch London, DTC strategies, sustainability, influencer marketing, celebrity endorsements, e-commerce, fashion industry, startup journey, social media tips.
17 Jan 20251h 16m
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