Checkin to Checkout Castos https://mobile1st.com/podcast We tell the stories of e-commerce leaders and let them explain how they got where they are, and where they think e-commerce is going in the next 12 months. In every episode, we uncover something that only this e-commerce leader can explain Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000 en © 2025 US GB https://episodes.castos.com/6838ae27d7d6e1-61780196/images/podcast/covers/c1a-8jrv8-jpd53dnxhkg5-pkg5vg.png Checkin to Checkout https://mobile1st.com/podcast We tell the stories of e-commerce leaders and let them explain how they got where they are, and where they think e-commerce is going in the next 12 months. In every episode, we uncover something that only this e-commerce leader can explain Justin Aronstein episodic We tell the stories of e-commerce leaders and let them explain how they got where they are, and where they think e-commerce is going in the next 12 months. In every episode, we uncover something that only this e-commerce leader can explain Justin Aronstein justin@mobile1st.com false https://feeds.castos.com/oz5z5 yes <![CDATA[E-commerce Replatforms: Setting Expectations, Cutting Scope, and Launching - Josh Johnston]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2410821 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/e-commerce-replatforms-setting-expectations-cutting-scope-and-launching-josh-johnston Josh Johnston has replatformed more than once. He's survived the executive pressure, the scope creep, the SI promises that don't hold, and the promotions engine that no out-of-the-box platform can actually handle. Now, as Senior Director of Online Experience at Trail Appliances — a 50-year-old appliance retailer operating across two branches in Western Canada — he's just completed what he calls the smoothest replatform of his career. Full composable rebuild. Twelve months. Under budget.

But the replatform is just the backdrop.

What Josh really came to talk about is the evolution of the e-commerce leadership role itself — why directors who stay in their lane are becoming obsolete, how to weaponize customer data in executive forums, and what it actually takes to get a CFO to fund something they don't understand yet.

We also get into Trail's AI-powered live chat widget that drove a 4x conversion lift, Josh's vision for how LLMs will reconstruct personalized storefronts in the next 36 months, and why composable architecture isn't just a tech decision — it's how you stay ready for what's coming.

If you're a Director of E-Commerce who's been asked to do more with less, report to people who don't understand your world, or justify investment in things that won't pay back for six months — this one's for you.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint?

Check out ⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Key Topics:

  • Why the e-commerce director role is becoming a cross-functional leadership role — and what happens to directors who don't make that shift
  • How to "weaponize" customer data and bring insights to executive forums in a way that actually moves decisions
  • Building the CFO relationship before you need it — and why being proactive beats being reactive every time
  • The holy trinity of evidence: GA data + customer chat logs + session recordings, and how to use them together to get buy-in fast
  • Trail's composable rebuild: Commerce Tools, Builder IO, Algolia, NuxtVue — why they made the calls they did and what they'd do differently
  • How to manage a replatform without blowing your timeline, budget, or executive trust (including the "minefield" framework for contingency planning)
  • Trail's AI chat widget: 4x conversion lift, what it does, and why Josh believes humans aren't going anywhere in high-consideration purchases
  • The future of personalized e-commerce: how LLMs will reconstruct storefronts based on user history — and why your architecture today determines your readiness for that world
  • Managing a shared e-commerce function across two distinct business units with different pricing, promotions, and go-to-market strategies
  • Why appliance retail is where furniture was 10 years ago — and the opportunity that creates for brands willing to invest in elevated digital experiences
  • Onsite experimentation: where Trail is today, what Josh is skeptical about in CRO culture, and the hire he's making to do it right

Chapters

  • (00:00:03) - How to Lead E-Commerce Growth: Trail Appliances
  • (00:02:17) - How has the organization evolved with the online business?
  • (00:10:22) - Cross-Functional Leaders
  • (00:12:54) - How to Find the Right Insights for the Board
  • (00:16:30) - CFO vs. CFO: The Remote First
  • (00:19:34) - TRAIL Home Furnishings: Where the Company Stands
  • (00:23:46) - Retailers: Personalization Is Big
  • (00:25:17) - How to Upskill Your Team
  • (00:26:11) - Re-platforming: The smoothest project yet
  • (00:30:35) - How Magento Went From PWA to Composable
  • (00:32:56) - Have You Started Experimenting With Site Optimization?
  • (00:35:02) - Top 10 trends for the year
  • (00:36:57) - Josh On The Project
]]> full 12 2 false Josh Johnston has replatformed more than once. He's survived the executive pressure, the scope creep, the SI promises that don't hold, and the promotions engine that no out-of-the-box platform can actually handle. Now, as Senior Director of Online Experience at Trail Appliances — a 50-year-old appliance retailer operating across two branches in Western Canada — he's just completed what he calls the smoothest replatform of his career. Full composable rebuild. Twelve months. Under budget.

But the replatform is just the backdrop.

What Josh really came to talk about is the evolution of the e-commerce leadership role itself — why directors who stay in their lane are becoming obsolete, how to weaponize customer data in executive forums, and what it actually takes to get a CFO to fund something they don't understand yet.

We also get into Trail's AI-powered live chat widget that drove a 4x conversion lift, Josh's vision for how LLMs will reconstruct personalized storefronts in the next 36 months, and why composable architecture isn't just a tech decision — it's how you stay ready for what's coming.

If you're a Director of E-Commerce who's been asked to do more with less, report to people who don't understand your world, or justify investment in things that won't pay back for six months — this one's for you.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint?

Check out ⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Key Topics:

  • Why the e-commerce director role is becoming a cross-functional leadership role — and what happens to directors who don't make that shift
  • How to "weaponize" customer data and bring insights to executive forums in a way that actually moves decisions
  • Building the CFO relationship before you need it — and why being proactive beats being reactive every time
  • The holy trinity of evidence: GA data + customer chat logs + session recordings, and how to use them together to get buy-in fast
  • Trail's composable rebuild: Commerce Tools, Builder IO, Algolia, NuxtVue — why they made the calls they did and what they'd do differently
  • How to manage a replatform without blowing your timeline, budget, or executive trust (including the "minefield" framework for contingency planning)
  • Trail's AI chat widget: 4x conversion lift, what it does, and why Josh believes humans aren't going anywhere in high-consideration purchases
  • The future of personalized e-commerce: how LLMs will reconstruct storefronts based on user history — and why your architecture today determines your readiness for that world
  • Managing a shared e-commerce function across two distinct business units with different pricing, promotions, and go-to-market strategies
  • Why appliance retail is where furniture was 10 years ago — and the opportunity that creates for brands willing to invest in elevated digital experiences
  • Onsite experimentation: where Trail is today, what Josh is skeptical about in CRO culture, and the hire he's making to do it right
]]> 00:37:41 <![CDATA[Why You? Why Now? The Question Every E-Commerce Brand Needs to Answer - Lauren Goodwin]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2404617 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/why-you-why-now-the-question-every-e-commerce-brand-needs-to-answer-lauren-goodwin Most brands overinvest in tactics without understanding what truly sets them apart — and they pay the price. Lauren Goodwin, a seasoned e-commerce strategist, uncovers the hidden keys to differentiation that actually drive sales, especially in the saturated beauty and wellness markets. If your brand is struggling to stand out where it matters most, this episode is your blueprint for real impact.

We break down how brands can shift from chasing fleeting growth hacks to developing authentic, compelling stories that resonate with consumers. Lauren shares concrete frameworks for identifying hero products, leading with purpose-driven messaging, and leveraging customer insights — all without throwing money at ads and hoping for results. She reveals how brands often waste resources on vanity metrics and how to use targeted surveys and simple AI tools to unlock real customer needs.

You'll discover why friction isn’t always the enemy — and when it truly is. Lauren explains why many brands overlook core branding issues that sabotage their growth, and how a holistic marketing approach can change the game. From positioning through storytelling to optimizing data and analytics—her insights cut through industry noise to give you clarity. Whether you're launching a startup or steering a mature brand, her advice on balancing strategy, team structure, and leveraging fractional resources is indispensable.

The stakes are high: If your brand remains invisible in the crowded marketplace, you risk falling behind or becoming irrelevant. Conversely, grasping these differentiation tactics opens doors to scalable growth, loyalty, and trust. This episode is perfect if you're tired of chasing the latest growth trend with little to show for it — and eager to build a brand that truly connects.

Lauren Goodwin is an e-commerce director with experience managing brands worth over $50 million annually, known for her strategic agility and data-driven insights that turn brands into category leaders. Her expertise in turning small brands into differentiated leaders makes her insights invaluable for ambitious marketers.

Tune in to transform your approach—and finally shift from tactics to meaningful growth. Don't miss out on the chance to reshape your brand’s story and stand out in a sea of sameness.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint?

Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Topics:

  1. Differentiation is now the primary driver of brand success, transcending barriers like ad spend or product quality.
  2. The real challenge in conversion isn’t friction but understanding consumer needs and aligning your brand message accordingly.
  3. Data analytics and customer insights are often underinvested, yet they hold the key to genuine differentiation.
  4. A-B testing reluctance stems from a fear of losing control and damaging brand consistency.
  5. As development cycles accelerate, e-commerce leaders must become more proactive in impact measurement or risk flying blind.
  6. The rise of fractional expertise reflects a shift toward lean, flexible teams and decision-making trust. In practice: Smaller brands can benefit from a fractional CMO or e-commerce strategist who challenges assumptions and guides growth without the overhead of full-time roles.

Chapters

  • (00:00:03) - Lauren Goodwin on E-Commerce Growth
  • (00:05:07) - The Secret to Diversity in Beauty
  • (00:08:08) - Breast eczema
  • (00:09:56) - In the Elevator With Jessica Alba
  • (00:11:59) - What's Different Working at a Startup vs. an Established Company
  • (00:13:52) - How to Leverage AI in Your Business
  • (00:22:21) - What's The Biggest B Test?
  • (00:24:17) - Director of E-Commerce: Hot Take
  • (00:26:20) - Will the Fractional CMO Replace the Mainstream CMO
]]> full 11 2 false Most brands overinvest in tactics without understanding what truly sets them apart — and they pay the price. Lauren Goodwin, a seasoned e-commerce strategist, uncovers the hidden keys to differentiation that actually drive sales, especially in the saturated beauty and wellness markets. If your brand is struggling to stand out where it matters most, this episode is your blueprint for real impact.

We break down how brands can shift from chasing fleeting growth hacks to developing authentic, compelling stories that resonate with consumers. Lauren shares concrete frameworks for identifying hero products, leading with purpose-driven messaging, and leveraging customer insights — all without throwing money at ads and hoping for results. She reveals how brands often waste resources on vanity metrics and how to use targeted surveys and simple AI tools to unlock real customer needs.

You'll discover why friction isn’t always the enemy — and when it truly is. Lauren explains why many brands overlook core branding issues that sabotage their growth, and how a holistic marketing approach can change the game. From positioning through storytelling to optimizing data and analytics—her insights cut through industry noise to give you clarity. Whether you're launching a startup or steering a mature brand, her advice on balancing strategy, team structure, and leveraging fractional resources is indispensable.

The stakes are high: If your brand remains invisible in the crowded marketplace, you risk falling behind or becoming irrelevant. Conversely, grasping these differentiation tactics opens doors to scalable growth, loyalty, and trust. This episode is perfect if you're tired of chasing the latest growth trend with little to show for it — and eager to build a brand that truly connects.

Lauren Goodwin is an e-commerce director with experience managing brands worth over $50 million annually, known for her strategic agility and data-driven insights that turn brands into category leaders. Her expertise in turning small brands into differentiated leaders makes her insights invaluable for ambitious marketers.

Tune in to transform your approach—and finally shift from tactics to meaningful growth. Don't miss out on the chance to reshape your brand’s story and stand out in a sea of sameness.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint?

Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Topics:

  1. Differentiation is now the primary driver of brand success, transcending barriers like ad spend or product quality.
  2. The real challenge in conversion isn’t friction but understanding consumer needs and aligning your brand message accordingly.
  3. Data analytics and customer insights are often underinvested, yet they hold the key to genuine differentiation.
  4. A-B testing reluctance stems from a fear of losing control and damaging brand consistency.
  5. As development cycles accelerate, e-commerce leaders must become more proactive in impact measurement or risk flying blind.
  6. The rise of fractional expertise reflects a shift toward lean, flexible teams and decision-making trust. In practice: Smaller brands can benefit from a fractional CMO or e-commerce strategist who challenges assumptions and guides growth without the overhead of full-time roles.
]]> 00:26:28 <![CDATA[Distrobution is Solved. Now What? - Dan Pearce]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2399119 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/distrobution-is-solved-now-what-dan-pearce Dan Pearce, CEO of Sovereign Naturals, has spent 30 years watching e-commerce evolve — and he's got a clear-eyed take on where most brands are getting left behind. In this episode, Dan breaks down why the distribution problem is solved, why demand capture is no longer enough, and what it actually takes to build a brand that creates demand from scratch. From TikTok affiliates to doctor interview series to rethinking what your DTC site is actually for, Dan lays out how he's rebuilding Sovereign Naturals' entire go-to-market approach — one snowball push at a time.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint?

Check out ⁠⁠⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠⁠⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠⁠⁠

Key Insights:

  1. Distribution is solved. Amazon did it. The new game is demand creation — and the brands that understand that are the ones growing.
  2. Demand capture was a straightforward business. Remove friction, capture intent. That era is over.
  3. Channel agnosticism is the right mindset. Consumers buy where they want. Your job is to make them want it, not steer them.
  4. Trust over transactions. If your CRM is 80% promotional, you're training customers to wait for a discount — not build a relationship.
  5. Discounting has diminishing returns. Run a sale twice, then four times, and you've trained your customer not to buy at full price.
  6. Storytelling at scale is the new performance marketing. Blogs, employee stories, doctor interviews, trade show video — all of it builds demand before someone ever searches for you.
  7. Hire experts and then actually let them expert. Bringing in talent and then telling them exactly what to do defeats the purpose.
  8. Minimum viable momentum beats swinging for 10x. Ask if you're better today than yesterday. That's the metric that compounds.

Chapters

  • (00:00:03) - Check In to Checkout
  • (00:00:34) - What Do You Do Every Day as CEO?
  • (00:02:07) - The Future of Distribution in Consumer Goods
  • (00:06:16) - Expert: Demand Creation is so important
  • (00:12:16) - The Fight for the Next Best Dollar
  • (00:12:55) - Healthcare Brand Momentum
  • (00:13:40) - In the Elevator With the
  • (00:16:47) - Facebook CMO on Product Marketing and Brand Management
  • (00:17:43) - Does Nike Care What Channel a Customer Buys From?
  • (00:19:34) - Tim Ferriss: Brand Momentum
  • (00:22:03) - How to Engage with Consumers on a Social Medium
  • (00:25:13) - Build a Community for Your Brand
  • (00:27:02) - Don't Over-Promote Your Brand's Sales
  • (00:29:51) - E-commerce: The Need to Solve For Demand
  • (00:31:56) - Jim Collins: The Business of Digital, Marketing, and Sales
  • (00:36:02) - Demand Generation vs Demand Capture in On-Site Optimization
  • (00:39:32) - In the Elevator With Jay Leno
  • (00:41:48) - Dan Sullivan on Audible
]]> 10 2 false Dan Pearce, CEO of Sovereign Naturals, has spent 30 years watching e-commerce evolve — and he's got a clear-eyed take on where most brands are getting left behind. In this episode, Dan breaks down why the distribution problem is solved, why demand capture is no longer enough, and what it actually takes to build a brand that creates demand from scratch. From TikTok affiliates to doctor interview series to rethinking what your DTC site is actually for, Dan lays out how he's rebuilding Sovereign Naturals' entire go-to-market approach — one snowball push at a time.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint?

Check out ⁠⁠⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠⁠⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠⁠⁠

Key Insights:

  1. Distribution is solved. Amazon did it. The new game is demand creation — and the brands that understand that are the ones growing.
  2. Demand capture was a straightforward business. Remove friction, capture intent. That era is over.
  3. Channel agnosticism is the right mindset. Consumers buy where they want. Your job is to make them want it, not steer them.
  4. Trust over transactions. If your CRM is 80% promotional, you're training customers to wait for a discount — not build a relationship.
  5. Discounting has diminishing returns. Run a sale twice, then four times, and you've trained your customer not to buy at full price.
  6. Storytelling at scale is the new performance marketing. Blogs, employee stories, doctor interviews, trade show video — all of it builds demand before someone ever searches for you.
  7. Hire experts and then actually let them expert. Bringing in talent and then telling them exactly what to do defeats the purpose.
  8. Minimum viable momentum beats swinging for 10x. Ask if you're better today than yesterday. That's the metric that compounds.

]]> 00:43:09 <![CDATA[How to get actionable feedback from customers and your team - Doug Villella]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2389905 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-get-actionable-feedback-from-customers-and-your-team-doug-villella In this episode, Doug Filella, Director of Digital Commerce and Growth Enablement at APG, shares insights on building and scaling e-commerce operations within a smaller organization. Topics include operationalizing marketing, leveraging customer feedback, and future trends in e-commerce technology.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint? Check out ⁠⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠⁠

Insights:

  • Building scalable marketing operations
  • Operationalizing customer data and feedback
  • Future of AI and technology in e-commerce

Chapters

  • (00:00:03) - Interview: Doug Valella, Director of Digital Commerce and Growth Enable
  • (00:01:53) - Having just started an E-Commerce org, what's the challenge
  • (00:04:50) - What were the 3 Steps to Operationalize your Marketing Operations?
  • (00:09:48) - Setting the Team Up for Success
  • (00:14:42) - How Much of Your Team Is Focused on Traffic Acquisition?
  • (00:16:55) - Over communication in the sales department
  • (00:19:15) - How To Drive Traffic and Conversion on Your Site
  • (00:20:10) - How to Sell O-rings
  • (00:23:01) - Teaching the Customer Through Communication
  • (00:28:01) - Sales Manager: On a Regular Schedule With Customers
  • (00:29:47) - What's the Part 1 of the Job that You Dread the Most
  • (00:31:14) - The Need for AI in Business
  • (00:34:04) - APG CEO on E-Commerce and the Next Evolution
  • (00:35:32) - E-commerce: The future of the business
  • (00:41:10) - Where to Connect with People in the Data Center?
  • (00:43:47) - Doug, it was a pleasure talking to you
]]> full 9 2 false In this episode, Doug Filella, Director of Digital Commerce and Growth Enablement at APG, shares insights on building and scaling e-commerce operations within a smaller organization. Topics include operationalizing marketing, leveraging customer feedback, and future trends in e-commerce technology.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint? Check out ⁠⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠⁠

Insights:

  • Building scalable marketing operations
  • Operationalizing customer data and feedback
  • Future of AI and technology in e-commerce
]]> 00:44:15 <![CDATA[Building High Growth Architecture Without Breaking Trust - Chad Greiter]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2382327 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-manage-privacy-laws-and-data-architecture-in-digital-marketing-chad-greiter In this insightful interview, Chad Greiter, Director of Digital Product at Simon, shares his expertise on e-commerce, AI, build vs. buy decisions, and leadership in digital product management. Discover practical strategies, industry trends, and future outlooks to elevate your e-commerce game.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint? Check out ⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Insights:

  • E-commerce team structure and hiring strategies
  • Impact of AI on build vs. buy decisions
  • Future of Web3 and blockchain in e-commerce
  • Balancing legal and privacy concerns in digital marketing
  • Leadership and technical expertise in digital product management
]]> full 8 2 false In this insightful interview, Chad Greiter, Director of Digital Product at Simon, shares his expertise on e-commerce, AI, build vs. buy decisions, and leadership in digital product management. Discover practical strategies, industry trends, and future outlooks to elevate your e-commerce game.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoint? Check out ⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Insights:

  • E-commerce team structure and hiring strategies
  • Impact of AI on build vs. buy decisions
  • Future of Web3 and blockchain in e-commerce
  • Balancing legal and privacy concerns in digital marketing
  • Leadership and technical expertise in digital product management
]]> 00:29:15 <![CDATA[Why Every Brand Should Be Working With Amazon in Some Way - Giovanni Papini]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:55:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2372729 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/why-every-brand-should-be-working-with-amazon-in-some-way-giovanni-papini The Future of Amazon E-commerce and Digital Strategy with Giovanni Papini

In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of Amazon e-commerce, innovative strategies for brands, and the impact of AI on marketing. Giovanni Papini, an expert in Amazon marketplace dynamics from Milan, provides a sharp insights into how brands can strategically leverage Amazon and adapt to technological shifts.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoin? Check out ⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Main insights include:

  • The importance of balancing operational know-how with strategic vision on Amazon, especially regarding choosing between 1P, 3P, or hybrid models.
  • How data-driven ecosystems and long-term vision are crucial for brands to succeed in Amazon’s complex environment.
  • The cultural and regulatory differences between European and American markets, especially concerning health and consumer brands.
  • The critical role of content and reviews in shaping brand reputation and consumer trust on Amazon.
  • The potential of AI and LLMs to transform customer engagement, advertising, and product discovery, with an emphasis on bringing meaning and differentiation to digital marketing strategies.
  • Practical steps for brands entering Amazon, from leveraging infrastructure without immediate sales to phased experimentation and brand extension.

Final takeaway: Success in Amazon today demands strategic clarity, mastery of data ecosystems, and agility in adopting AI-powered marketing tools. Brands that bring authentic meaning and differentiate effectively will thrive in this evolving digital landscape.

Chapters

  • (00:00:03) - ECommerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:01:34) - How to Win on Amazon
  • (00:06:54) - Philip Morris: How to Win on Amazon
  • (00:13:31) - Should Brands Integrate with Amazon?
  • (00:17:07) - The challenge of e-commerce in consumer healthcare
  • (00:23:08) - Healthcare in Europe vs the US
  • (00:26:35) - Pharmacies and the Omnichannel
  • (00:29:23) - Marketing 360: The Future of AI
]]> full 7 2 false The Future of Amazon E-commerce and Digital Strategy with Giovanni Papini

In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of Amazon e-commerce, innovative strategies for brands, and the impact of AI on marketing. Giovanni Papini, an expert in Amazon marketplace dynamics from Milan, provides a sharp insights into how brands can strategically leverage Amazon and adapt to technological shifts.

Want any help Personalizing Every Customer Touchpoin? Check out ⁠https://Mobile1st.com⁠.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/⁠

Main insights include:

  • The importance of balancing operational know-how with strategic vision on Amazon, especially regarding choosing between 1P, 3P, or hybrid models.
  • How data-driven ecosystems and long-term vision are crucial for brands to succeed in Amazon’s complex environment.
  • The cultural and regulatory differences between European and American markets, especially concerning health and consumer brands.
  • The critical role of content and reviews in shaping brand reputation and consumer trust on Amazon.
  • The potential of AI and LLMs to transform customer engagement, advertising, and product discovery, with an emphasis on bringing meaning and differentiation to digital marketing strategies.
  • Practical steps for brands entering Amazon, from leveraging infrastructure without immediate sales to phased experimentation and brand extension.

Final takeaway: Success in Amazon today demands strategic clarity, mastery of data ecosystems, and agility in adopting AI-powered marketing tools. Brands that bring authentic meaning and differentiate effectively will thrive in this evolving digital landscape.

]]> 00:37:02 <![CDATA[Why Differentiation is all that Matters Right Now - Andrew Horwat]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:49:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2366511 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/why-differentiation-is-all-that-matters-right-now-andrew-horwat-1 In this conversation, Andrew Horwat shares valuable insights into the world of e-commerce, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, testing, and understanding consumer needs. He discusses the structure of his team, the significance of resonance over reach in marketing, and the challenges of navigating brand guidelines. Andrew also reflects on learning from failures, the critical role of differentiation in a competitive market, and the future opportunities in e-commerce. He concludes with personal reading recommendations that inspire his work.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways

  • Andrew oversees a lean team managing digital content for retail partners.
  • Collaboration across divisions is crucial for generating new ideas.
  • Testing and experimentation help validate gut feelings in marketing.
  • Resonance over reach is a key marketing principle.
  • Understanding consumer insights is essential for effective marketing.
  • Learning from failures is a vital part of growth.
  • Differentiation is more important than ever in e-commerce.
  • The unfiltered voice of the consumer is invaluable for insights.
  • Brand guidelines can be tested but should not be broken.
  • Reading and continuous learning are important for personal and professional development.

]]> 6 2 false In this conversation, Andrew Horwat shares valuable insights into the world of e-commerce, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, testing, and understanding consumer needs. He discusses the structure of his team, the significance of resonance over reach in marketing, and the challenges of navigating brand guidelines. Andrew also reflects on learning from failures, the critical role of differentiation in a competitive market, and the future opportunities in e-commerce. He concludes with personal reading recommendations that inspire his work.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways

  • Andrew oversees a lean team managing digital content for retail partners.
  • Collaboration across divisions is crucial for generating new ideas.
  • Testing and experimentation help validate gut feelings in marketing.
  • Resonance over reach is a key marketing principle.
  • Understanding consumer insights is essential for effective marketing.
  • Learning from failures is a vital part of growth.
  • Differentiation is more important than ever in e-commerce.
  • The unfiltered voice of the consumer is invaluable for insights.
  • Brand guidelines can be tested but should not be broken.
  • Reading and continuous learning are important for personal and professional development.

]]> 00:41:22 <![CDATA[How to Use Segmentation to Grow Revenue - Anna Christensen]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:13:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2357405 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-use-segmentation-to-grow-revenue-anna-christensen In this conversation, Anna, the Director of E-commerce for Buff City Soap, shares her insights on leading a small e-commerce team, the importance of storytelling in digital marketing, and the challenges of integrating online and offline retail experiences. She discusses the role of AI in enhancing customer engagement and retention strategies, emphasizing the need for personalization in e-commerce. Anna reflects on her journey, the lessons learned from failures, and the evolving landscape of e-commerce.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways

  • E-commerce leaders often wear multiple hats.
  • Building a small team can lead to agility and innovation.
  • Storytelling is crucial for engaging customers online.
  • Creating a unique digital experience requires understanding customer needs.
  • Testing and learning are essential for e-commerce success.
  • Navigating challenges between e-commerce and retail requires collaboration.
  • AI can enhance personalization and efficiency in e-commerce.
  • Retention strategies should focus on hyper-segmentation and triggers.
  • Personalization is key to winning back customers.
  • Continuous learning and adaptation are vital in the e-commerce landscape.
]]> full 5 2 false In this conversation, Anna, the Director of E-commerce for Buff City Soap, shares her insights on leading a small e-commerce team, the importance of storytelling in digital marketing, and the challenges of integrating online and offline retail experiences. She discusses the role of AI in enhancing customer engagement and retention strategies, emphasizing the need for personalization in e-commerce. Anna reflects on her journey, the lessons learned from failures, and the evolving landscape of e-commerce.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways

  • E-commerce leaders often wear multiple hats.
  • Building a small team can lead to agility and innovation.
  • Storytelling is crucial for engaging customers online.
  • Creating a unique digital experience requires understanding customer needs.
  • Testing and learning are essential for e-commerce success.
  • Navigating challenges between e-commerce and retail requires collaboration.
  • AI can enhance personalization and efficiency in e-commerce.
  • Retention strategies should focus on hyper-segmentation and triggers.
  • Personalization is key to winning back customers.
  • Continuous learning and adaptation are vital in the e-commerce landscape.
]]> 00:32:16 <![CDATA[The Future of E-commerce | Andrew Mosko]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:44:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2347561 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/the-future-of-e-commerce-andrew-mosko In this conversation, Andrew Mosko, Director of D2C and Digital at Throne Sport Coffee, shares insights into his role overseeing digital commerce and marketing strategies. He discusses the evolution of e-commerce, the importance of agency support, and the lessons learned from failures in the industry. The conversation also delves into the impact of AI on consumer behavior, the significance of effective communication within teams, and innovative marketing strategies that leverage consumer psychology. Andrew emphasizes the need for storytelling in e-commerce and shares his current focus on understanding human decision-making processes.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways:

  • Agency support is crucial for managing digital marketing efforts.
  • Failures in e-commerce are common and provide valuable learning experiences.
  • Effective communication is essential for team dynamics and project success.
  • AI is changing the landscape of consumer behavior and marketing strategies.
  • E-commerce strategies must adapt to shifts in consumer engagement.
  • Understanding human psychology can enhance marketing effectiveness.
  • Storytelling is vital for connecting with consumers on product pages.
  • Testing emerging channels can lead to innovative marketing opportunities.
  • Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success in e-commerce.
]]> full 4 2 false In this conversation, Andrew Mosko, Director of D2C and Digital at Throne Sport Coffee, shares insights into his role overseeing digital commerce and marketing strategies. He discusses the evolution of e-commerce, the importance of agency support, and the lessons learned from failures in the industry. The conversation also delves into the impact of AI on consumer behavior, the significance of effective communication within teams, and innovative marketing strategies that leverage consumer psychology. Andrew emphasizes the need for storytelling in e-commerce and shares his current focus on understanding human decision-making processes.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com.

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways:

  • Agency support is crucial for managing digital marketing efforts.
  • Failures in e-commerce are common and provide valuable learning experiences.
  • Effective communication is essential for team dynamics and project success.
  • AI is changing the landscape of consumer behavior and marketing strategies.
  • E-commerce strategies must adapt to shifts in consumer engagement.
  • Understanding human psychology can enhance marketing effectiveness.
  • Storytelling is vital for connecting with consumers on product pages.
  • Testing emerging channels can lead to innovative marketing opportunities.
  • Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success in e-commerce.
]]> 00:34:04 <![CDATA[Driving E-Commerce Growth Through Technology | Dmitriy Anderson]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:39:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2340578 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/driving-e-commerce-growth-through-technology-dmitriy-anderson In this conversation, Dimitri Anderson, CIO and Head of E-Commerce and Marketplace Strategy at Leroy Merlin, shares insights into his hybrid role that combines technology and business to drive growth. He emphasizes the importance of user feedback, innovative features, and A/B testing in e-commerce. Dimitri discusses the challenges of advertising overspending and the role of AI in enhancing customer experience. He also highlights the efficiency of small teams and the future trends in e-commerce, particularly in the South African market.

Takeaways

  • Dimitri's role involves weaving technology and business priorities for growth. User feedback is critical for improving customer experience.
  • Innovative features can significantly impact market response.
  • A/B testing is a key strategy for optimizing e-commerce performance.
  • Overspending on advertising can lead to significant challenges.
  • AI can enhance customer interaction and drive sales. Small teams can be highly productive in e-commerce.
  • The South African market is receptive to new e-commerce features.
  • Learning from failures is essential for growth. Future trends in e-commerce will focus on interactive experiences.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

]]> full 3 2 false In this conversation, Dimitri Anderson, CIO and Head of E-Commerce and Marketplace Strategy at Leroy Merlin, shares insights into his hybrid role that combines technology and business to drive growth. He emphasizes the importance of user feedback, innovative features, and A/B testing in e-commerce. Dimitri discusses the challenges of advertising overspending and the role of AI in enhancing customer experience. He also highlights the efficiency of small teams and the future trends in e-commerce, particularly in the South African market.

Takeaways

  • Dimitri's role involves weaving technology and business priorities for growth. User feedback is critical for improving customer experience.
  • Innovative features can significantly impact market response.
  • A/B testing is a key strategy for optimizing e-commerce performance.
  • Overspending on advertising can lead to significant challenges.
  • AI can enhance customer interaction and drive sales. Small teams can be highly productive in e-commerce.
  • The South African market is receptive to new e-commerce features.
  • Learning from failures is essential for growth. Future trends in e-commerce will focus on interactive experiences.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

]]> 00:28:04 <![CDATA[Navigating Team Dynamics in E-commerce | Kasey Wiese]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 02:56:25 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2331501 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/navigating-team-dynamics-in-e-commerce-kasey-wiese In this conversation, Kasey Wiese, the Director of E-commerce at Liberty Safe, shares insights into her role and the challenges of leading an e-commerce team. She discusses the importance of prioritization, delegation, and emotional resilience in leadership. Kasey emphasizes the need for a culture of experimentation and the complexities of personalization in e-commerce. She also reflects on the stress of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the significance of trust and communication in leadership, and the value of implementing best practices from the Baymard Institute. Kasey's experiences highlight the evolving landscape of e-commerce and the continuous learning required to succeed in this field.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways

  • Kasey Wiese is focused on growing e-commerce at Liberty Safe.
  • Prioritization is key in leadership roles, focusing on controllable factors.
  • Delegation depends on the touch required for each role.
  • In-house development can be more efficient during critical times.
  • Emotional resilience is crucial in handling failures and mistakes.
  • Creating a culture of experimentation is essential for growth.
  • Personalization in e-commerce can be tricky and often misapplied.
  • Black Friday and Cyber Monday present unique challenges for e-commerce leaders.
  • Trust and communication are vital for effective leadership.
  • Implementing best practices from Baymard can significantly improve user experience.
]]> full 2 2 false In this conversation, Kasey Wiese, the Director of E-commerce at Liberty Safe, shares insights into her role and the challenges of leading an e-commerce team. She discusses the importance of prioritization, delegation, and emotional resilience in leadership. Kasey emphasizes the need for a culture of experimentation and the complexities of personalization in e-commerce. She also reflects on the stress of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the significance of trust and communication in leadership, and the value of implementing best practices from the Baymard Institute. Kasey's experiences highlight the evolving landscape of e-commerce and the continuous learning required to succeed in this field.

Want any help improving Revenue Per Visitor? Check out https://Mobile1st.com

Interested in talking to Justin or getting on the show, find him on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/

Takeaways

  • Kasey Wiese is focused on growing e-commerce at Liberty Safe.
  • Prioritization is key in leadership roles, focusing on controllable factors.
  • Delegation depends on the touch required for each role.
  • In-house development can be more efficient during critical times.
  • Emotional resilience is crucial in handling failures and mistakes.
  • Creating a culture of experimentation is essential for growth.
  • Personalization in e-commerce can be tricky and often misapplied.
  • Black Friday and Cyber Monday present unique challenges for e-commerce leaders.
  • Trust and communication are vital for effective leadership.
  • Implementing best practices from Baymard can significantly improve user experience.
]]> 00:36:52 <![CDATA[How to Strategically Scale Your E-commerce Business | Garrett Peters]]> Tue, 13 Jan 2026 22:25:13 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2321990 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-strategically-scale-your-e-commerce-business-garret-peters This is the first episode of Season 2. Episodes in season 2 will be released weekly and will be 30 minutes long.

In this episode, Garrett Peters, CEO and co-founder of Duncan and Stone Paper Company, shares insights into his daily responsibilities, the challenges of running an e-commerce business, and the lessons learned from failures. He discusses the importance of breaking down new tasks into manageable steps, the significance of building a strong team, and the strategies for future growth, including influencer marketing and optimizing Amazon sales.

Want help hitting your 2026 goals by increasing revenue per visitor? Checkout Mobile1st.com.

Takeaways

  • The role of a CEO involves wearing many hats and handling various tasks.
  • Finding joy in unexpected aspects of the job can lead to personal growth.
  • Breaking down new challenges into smaller steps is crucial for success.
  • Learning from failures is an essential part of the entrepreneurial journey.
  • E-commerce requires more time and energy than initially anticipated.
  • Building a team that works on their passions can enhance productivity.
  • Outsourcing tasks can free up time for more critical responsibilities. I
  • Influencer marketing is becoming increasingly important for brand growth.
  • Intentionality in marketing strategies can lead to better results. -
  • Understanding the business's financial health is vital for future planning.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - Ecommerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:00:47) - How to Be a CEO of a Startup e-Commerce Company
  • (00:01:53) - Is there any part of your job you feel like you maybe would
  • (00:03:17) - President and CEO: Newness
  • (00:03:37) - How To Start a New Business?
  • (00:07:28) - Duncan and Stone: Becoming an Amazon Company
  • (00:08:33) - How To Start a Business in E-Commerce
  • (00:10:45) - Sen. Rand Paul on Momentum
  • (00:11:44) - Duncan & Stone: On Paid Media, SEO & Influencer
  • (00:14:58) - The Importance of Controlling the Business
  • (00:18:48) - A Few Thoughts On Starting a Business
  • (00:22:44) - TikTok, Amazon: Where Are You Going?
  • (00:23:52) - Marketing Executive on Facebook Paid Media
  • (00:24:56) - TikTok Shop: Best Influencer Marketing Strategy
  • (00:27:35) - How to Manage a Small Business
]]> 1 2 false This is the first episode of Season 2. Episodes in season 2 will be released weekly and will be 30 minutes long.

In this episode, Garrett Peters, CEO and co-founder of Duncan and Stone Paper Company, shares insights into his daily responsibilities, the challenges of running an e-commerce business, and the lessons learned from failures. He discusses the importance of breaking down new tasks into manageable steps, the significance of building a strong team, and the strategies for future growth, including influencer marketing and optimizing Amazon sales.

Want help hitting your 2026 goals by increasing revenue per visitor? Checkout Mobile1st.com.

Takeaways

  • The role of a CEO involves wearing many hats and handling various tasks.
  • Finding joy in unexpected aspects of the job can lead to personal growth.
  • Breaking down new challenges into smaller steps is crucial for success.
  • Learning from failures is an essential part of the entrepreneurial journey.
  • E-commerce requires more time and energy than initially anticipated.
  • Building a team that works on their passions can enhance productivity.
  • Outsourcing tasks can free up time for more critical responsibilities. I
  • Influencer marketing is becoming increasingly important for brand growth.
  • Intentionality in marketing strategies can lead to better results. -
  • Understanding the business's financial health is vital for future planning.
]]> 00:30:42 <![CDATA[Building a Golf Community through E-commerce - Jonah Redel-Traub]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 21:30:49 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2317340 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/building-a-golf-community-through-e-commerce-jonah-redel-traub In this conversation, Jonah, the director of commerce and growth at ProShop, discusses his role in building a golf community through e-commerce and content marketing. He shares insights on team structure, customer acquisition, and the challenges of navigating social media platforms like TikTok. Jonah emphasizes the importance of storytelling in brand building, the complexities of attribution reporting, and the impact of AI on the future of e-commerce. He also reflects on personal experiences with failures, setting boundaries, and the significance of clear communication within an organization.

Want help growing RPV, checkout Mobile1st.com.

Takeaways

  • Jonah is the director of commerce and growth for ProShop, focusing on e-commerce in the golf industry.
  • ProShop aims to build a large golf audience through content and commerce.
  • The e-commerce team operates like an internal agency to incubate brands.
  • TikTok is a growing channel, but the price point for golf products is high.
  • Attribution reporting can be misleading; focus on customer acquisition instead.
  • Customer insights are gathered through direct feedback from a dedicated community.
  • Storytelling is crucial for building a strong brand connection.
  • Failures in e-commerce are common, but personal growth is more significant.
  • Clear communication of e-commerce metrics is essential for stakeholder buy-in.
  • AI is transforming the e-commerce landscape, allowing for rapid implementation of ideas.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - ECommerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:02:18) - Golf Brand Ambassador on Content First
  • (00:03:38) - Golf Star on His Love of the Game
  • (00:04:29) - What's Your ECommerce Team Look Like?
  • (00:06:55) - Is TikTok the Right Channel for E-Commerce?
  • (00:11:35) - Finding New Insights About Sugarloaf Social Club
  • (00:15:58) - Have You Had Any Failures While At Shopify?
  • (00:18:28) - How to Deal with Ridiculous Ideas
  • (00:20:20) - Have You Had To Fight A Facebook Ad Fire?
  • (00:25:16) - How do you communicate the intricacies of ECommerce to the Channel
  • (00:28:14) - How to Train an E-Commerce Native Employee
  • (00:31:23) - What Would You Do If You Didn't Work in E-Commerce
  • (00:36:00) - How Shopify Is Advancing AI in E-Commerce
  • (00:38:43) - GEO vs SEO: How Will GEO Differ
  • (00:40:41) - How to Get Smarter on Twitter
]]> full 12 1 false In this conversation, Jonah, the director of commerce and growth at ProShop, discusses his role in building a golf community through e-commerce and content marketing. He shares insights on team structure, customer acquisition, and the challenges of navigating social media platforms like TikTok. Jonah emphasizes the importance of storytelling in brand building, the complexities of attribution reporting, and the impact of AI on the future of e-commerce. He also reflects on personal experiences with failures, setting boundaries, and the significance of clear communication within an organization.

Want help growing RPV, checkout Mobile1st.com.

Takeaways

  • Jonah is the director of commerce and growth for ProShop, focusing on e-commerce in the golf industry.
  • ProShop aims to build a large golf audience through content and commerce.
  • The e-commerce team operates like an internal agency to incubate brands.
  • TikTok is a growing channel, but the price point for golf products is high.
  • Attribution reporting can be misleading; focus on customer acquisition instead.
  • Customer insights are gathered through direct feedback from a dedicated community.
  • Storytelling is crucial for building a strong brand connection.
  • Failures in e-commerce are common, but personal growth is more significant.
  • Clear communication of e-commerce metrics is essential for stakeholder buy-in.
  • AI is transforming the e-commerce landscape, allowing for rapid implementation of ideas.
]]> 00:42:47 <![CDATA[How to Say No To Stakeholders (Without Getting Fired) | Grace Edinger ]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:22:32 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2281461 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-say-no-to-stakeholders-without-getting-fired-grace-edinger "But our brand is different."

It is the most dangerous phrase in enterprise e-commerce. It leads to tech debt, bloated roadmaps, and a digital ecosystem that represents a graveyard of "nice-to-have" features that never scale.

In this episode (our first-ever LIVE recording!), we sit down with Grace Edinger, Director of Ecommerce Product Management at Stanley Black & Decker.

Grace is responsible for the digital backbone powering some of the world’s most iconic brands—DeWalt, Craftsman, Black+Decker, and Cub Cadet. She joins the show to break down how she manages hundreds of stakeholders, navigates complex corporate politics, and enforces her strict "No Special Snowflakes" rule to keep the roadmap clean.

We cover:

  • The "Special Snowflake" Syndrome: Why saying "yes" to every custom brand request is actually destroying your ability to scale.

  • Project vs. Product Mindset: How to stop operating as an "Order Taker" for Marketing and start operating as a strategic partner who demands data before building.

  • The Invisible Work: Why the unsexy work of consolidating ERPs and building a unified foundation matters more than the latest AI hype.

  • Stakeholder Politics: The exact scripts and strategies Grace uses to say "no" to bad ideas without burning bridges.

If you are an E-Commerce Director drowning in feature requests or trying to drive digital transformation in a legacy organization, this episode is your playbook for taking back control.

Links: Connect with Grace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graceedinger/ Follow Justin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/ Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://mobile1st.com/news

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - E-Commerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:00:27) - Stanley Black and Decker's Direct-to-Consumer eCommerce
  • (00:03:41) - What's the biggest struggle in your job?
  • (00:05:51) - What's The Part of Your Job That You Dread Most?
  • (00:07:42) - Stanley Black & Decker CEO on Digital Frontend
  • (00:12:06) - How to Build the Future of E-commerce?
  • (00:18:28) - Walmart CEO on Digital Consumerism
  • (00:21:31) - Have You Got To Fight the Fire?
  • (00:25:00) - Drupal 8.1
  • (00:26:16) - How to Test Your Content in the Future
  • (00:27:40) - Black and Decker's CEO on His Failure
  • (00:28:25) - What have you learned working with directors of E Commerce?
  • (00:29:33) - What do you admire about the Director of E Commerce? Think that
  • (00:30:56) - What is something that you wish like your executive team knew about your
  • (00:33:14) - CupCade on Experimentation
  • (00:35:26) - Black & Decker CEO on the Company's Future
  • (00:37:17) - E-Commerce Directors at Ralph Lauren
  • (00:40:20) - Product Manager: The Future of AI
  • (00:42:57) - How Is Microsoft Building AI Into Its Ecosystem?
  • (00:43:55) - Bill ChatGPT: Could Bots Shop For You?
]]> full 11 1 false "But our brand is different."

It is the most dangerous phrase in enterprise e-commerce. It leads to tech debt, bloated roadmaps, and a digital ecosystem that represents a graveyard of "nice-to-have" features that never scale.

In this episode (our first-ever LIVE recording!), we sit down with Grace Edinger, Director of Ecommerce Product Management at Stanley Black & Decker.

Grace is responsible for the digital backbone powering some of the world’s most iconic brands—DeWalt, Craftsman, Black+Decker, and Cub Cadet. She joins the show to break down how she manages hundreds of stakeholders, navigates complex corporate politics, and enforces her strict "No Special Snowflakes" rule to keep the roadmap clean.

We cover:

  • The "Special Snowflake" Syndrome: Why saying "yes" to every custom brand request is actually destroying your ability to scale.

  • Project vs. Product Mindset: How to stop operating as an "Order Taker" for Marketing and start operating as a strategic partner who demands data before building.

  • The Invisible Work: Why the unsexy work of consolidating ERPs and building a unified foundation matters more than the latest AI hype.

  • Stakeholder Politics: The exact scripts and strategies Grace uses to say "no" to bad ideas without burning bridges.

If you are an E-Commerce Director drowning in feature requests or trying to drive digital transformation in a legacy organization, this episode is your playbook for taking back control.

Links: Connect with Grace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graceedinger/ Follow Justin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinaronstein/ Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://mobile1st.com/news]]> 00:46:38 <![CDATA[How to Create a High Converting Store - Brian Purkiss]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:16:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2165291 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-create-a-high-converting-store-brian-purkiss Brian “Purk” Purkiss leads D2C acquisition and the ecommerce site for Honest Paws at OnePet. In this episode, Brian gets honest about what actually moves conversion and what just burns time. We dig into the puzzle of ecommerce decision making, how to turn tiny wins into big results, and why the bravest thing you can do is sometimes remove the shiny thing you just added.

You’ll hear:

  • Why small, measured iterations beat year-long redesigns

  • The counterintuitive truth that removing elements often lifts revenue

  • How to set goals, form a hypothesis, and measure impact without ego

  • A practical workflow for roadmapping, testing, and sharing lessons with your team

  • Preventing burnout with “fallback” tasks and Fun Feature Friday

  • Building a culture of ownership and trust on a fully remote team

  • Brian’s hardest leadership lesson and how he fixed it

If you care about conversion rate, new customer acquisition, and making your site 0.1% better week after week, this one’s for you. Hosted by Justin Aronstein with Connor.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - Check In: E-Commerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:00:24) - Check in
  • (00:01:49) - What's the Part of Your Job that You Enjoy Most?
  • (00:05:10) - What Does Your Day-to-Day Look Like as a Product
  • (00:08:38) - How to Manage a Team Without Burnout
  • (00:12:51) - Pdp vs. Competitors
  • (00:14:42) - Product Manager: Strengths and Weaknesses
  • (00:18:25) - Product Manager vs E-Commerce Manager
  • (00:24:28) - How to Lead in E-Commerce
  • (00:28:45) - In the Elevator With a Complainer
  • (00:30:30) - The Work That Made Me a Better Leader
  • (00:36:35) - The Process for Building High-Converting Websites
  • (00:44:06) - Reveal: Ignoring Failure to Grow
  • (00:45:18) - Brian Purkis
]]> full 10 1 false Brian “Purk” Purkiss leads D2C acquisition and the ecommerce site for Honest Paws at OnePet. In this episode, Brian gets honest about what actually moves conversion and what just burns time. We dig into the puzzle of ecommerce decision making, how to turn tiny wins into big results, and why the bravest thing you can do is sometimes remove the shiny thing you just added.

You’ll hear:

  • Why small, measured iterations beat year-long redesigns

  • The counterintuitive truth that removing elements often lifts revenue

  • How to set goals, form a hypothesis, and measure impact without ego

  • A practical workflow for roadmapping, testing, and sharing lessons with your team

  • Preventing burnout with “fallback” tasks and Fun Feature Friday

  • Building a culture of ownership and trust on a fully remote team

  • Brian’s hardest leadership lesson and how he fixed it

If you care about conversion rate, new customer acquisition, and making your site 0.1% better week after week, this one’s for you. Hosted by Justin Aronstein with Connor.

]]> 00:46:25 <![CDATA[The Importance of Data Driven Storytelling - Tom Funk]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2025 11:15:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2154086 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/the-importance-of-data-driven-storytelling-tom-funk Should Amazon really be the enemy of DTC?

Most e-commerce leaders will tell you to prioritize your own site, own the customer, and push for loyalty. But Tom Funk — E-Commerce Director at Ann Clark Ltd. and veteran of Vermont Teddy Bear, Keurig Green Mountain, and Gardener’s Supply — has a very different take.

In this episode of Check In to Check Out, Tom shares why Amazon actually delivers a better customer experience than most merchant sites ever could, why his Shopify product pages send shoppers directly to Amazon, and what happened when he failed to convince a leadership team that Amazon was essential to their growth.

We get into:

  • The real ratio of Amazon vs. DTC revenue (and why most brands get it wrong)

  • The operational realities that make Amazon unbeatable for certain products

  • How to position DTC so it complements, not competes with, marketplaces

  • Tom’s hard-learned lessons about culture, data storytelling, and failed persuasion

If you’ve ever debated whether to push harder into Amazon or double down on your own site, this episode will challenge your assumptions.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - E-Commerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:01:16) - How to become a e-commerce director
  • (00:02:25) - Merchant Website: Between Amazon and Shopify
  • (00:06:24) - What Does Your Day-to-Day Look Like at Amazon?
  • (00:08:39) - How Product Development Is Done at Amazon
  • (00:12:18) - Getting Started in E-Commerce
  • (00:15:00) - Top Executives on Amazon's Impact
  • (00:16:49) - Philip Morris on Amazon and the Company's Future
  • (00:23:31) - Mentors in the Workplace
  • (00:27:18) - Cookbook Cutters: What's Special About Selling Cookies?
  • (00:31:21) - Baking and decorating products in The New York Times Catalog
  • (00:34:39) - Where Entrepreneurs See the Future of ECommerce
  • (00:36:52) - Tom Aronstein on The Righteous Mind
]]> full 9 1 false Should Amazon really be the enemy of DTC?

Most e-commerce leaders will tell you to prioritize your own site, own the customer, and push for loyalty. But Tom Funk — E-Commerce Director at Ann Clark Ltd. and veteran of Vermont Teddy Bear, Keurig Green Mountain, and Gardener’s Supply — has a very different take.

In this episode of Check In to Check Out, Tom shares why Amazon actually delivers a better customer experience than most merchant sites ever could, why his Shopify product pages send shoppers directly to Amazon, and what happened when he failed to convince a leadership team that Amazon was essential to their growth.

We get into:

  • The real ratio of Amazon vs. DTC revenue (and why most brands get it wrong)

  • The operational realities that make Amazon unbeatable for certain products

  • How to position DTC so it complements, not competes with, marketplaces

  • Tom’s hard-learned lessons about culture, data storytelling, and failed persuasion

If you’ve ever debated whether to push harder into Amazon or double down on your own site, this episode will challenge your assumptions.

]]> 00:40:07 <![CDATA[How to Build and Identify Talent - Paige Chilson]]> Tue, 16 Sep 2025 11:21:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2141750 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-build-and-identify-talent-paige-chilson Chapters
  • (00:00:00) - E-Commerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:01:06) - How to Plan Your Next Step After Getting Layoff
  • (00:04:28) - Not Wrapping Your Identity Up in Your Job
  • (00:06:48) - How to Find the Best Talent in E-Commerce
  • (00:08:45) - The Need to Identify Leaks in Your Team
  • (00:12:47) - The Search for the AI-Inspired Talent
  • (00:17:11) - In the Elevator With Michael Dell
  • (00:20:32) - Have E-Commerce Directors Learned to Be More Risk Averse?
  • (00:24:39) - Amazon's Risk-Aware Future
  • (00:26:01) - Looking for the Next Role in AI
  • (00:28:35) - E-commerce: Growth opportunities
  • (00:32:34) - E-Commerce Conference 2018: Taking a Break
]]> full 8 1 false 00:34:29 <![CDATA[How to grow an e-commerce business in uncertain times - John Arquette]]> Wed, 27 Aug 2025 11:28:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2124658 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-grown-an-e-commerce-business-in-uncertain-times-john-arquette In this conversation, John Arquete, an experienced e-commerce director, shares insights on managing an e-commerce business through challenging times. He discusses the importance of team dynamics, effective communication, and understanding customer needs. John reflects on his career journey, the lessons learned from failures, and the impact of economic changes on e-commerce strategies. He emphasizes the need for authenticity in marketing and the potential of AI to transform the e-commerce landscape. Overall, the discussion provides valuable takeaways for e-commerce leaders looking to navigate the complexities of the industry.

 

Takeaways

  • Managing burnout is crucial for e-commerce directors.
  • Centralized command with decentralized control helps in team management.
  • Effective communication with the team reduces burnout.
  • Hiring the right team members is essential for success.
  • Understanding customer needs is key to adapting strategies.
  • Economic downturns require quick pivots in product offerings.
  • Learning from failures can lead to significant growth.
  • Authenticity in messaging resonates with customers.
  • AI will reshape the e-commerce landscape significantly.
  • Continuous learning and adaptation are vital for e-commerce leaders.

 

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - E-Commerce Growth Podcast
  • (00:00:32) - ECOM Director John Walsh on the Week
  • (00:01:24) - E-Commerce Director: How to Manage the Team's Burn
  • (00:05:41) - What's It Mean to Be an ECommerce Director at Gol's
  • (00:08:38) - How to Be Great at Many Things
  • (00:12:13) - How Did You Get Started in E-Commerce?
  • (00:16:29) - Onboarding the Customer Service Managers
  • (00:17:20) - E-Commerce Director: The Big Points
  • (00:19:18) - In the Elevator With Rich People
  • (00:21:56) - Amazon's 'All-Right' Product
  • (00:23:48) - In uncertain times, how to run e-commerce?
  • (00:26:26) - How Military Customers Get What They Need
  • (00:34:06) - How to Reduce Interstitials on Your Site
  • (00:36:51) - E-commerce: Future of AI & Modernity
  • (00:44:01) - How to Keep Up With the Tech Industry
]]> full 7 1 false In this conversation, John Arquete, an experienced e-commerce director, shares insights on managing an e-commerce business through challenging times. He discusses the importance of team dynamics, effective communication, and understanding customer needs. John reflects on his career journey, the lessons learned from failures, and the impact of economic changes on e-commerce strategies. He emphasizes the need for authenticity in marketing and the potential of AI to transform the e-commerce landscape. Overall, the discussion provides valuable takeaways for e-commerce leaders looking to navigate the complexities of the industry.

 

Takeaways

  • Managing burnout is crucial for e-commerce directors.
  • Centralized command with decentralized control helps in team management.
  • Effective communication with the team reduces burnout.
  • Hiring the right team members is essential for success.
  • Understanding customer needs is key to adapting strategies.
  • Economic downturns require quick pivots in product offerings.
  • Learning from failures can lead to significant growth.
  • Authenticity in messaging resonates with customers.
  • AI will reshape the e-commerce landscape significantly.
  • Continuous learning and adaptation are vital for e-commerce leaders.

 

]]> 00:46:46 <![CDATA[Trends that Influence Purchasing Decisions - Justin Rinaldi]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:21:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2111022 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/trends-that-influence-purchasing-decisions-justin-rinaldi In this episode of Checkin to Checkout, we sit down with Justin Rinaldi, Director of Marketing and E-Commerce at Safety Speed Manufacturing, to unpack the trends shaping how customers make purchasing decisions today.

From the decline of trust in search engines to the rise of "brand shepherds" (not influencers), Justin shares why building great user experiences—both on and off your site—is now mission-critical. We cover:

  • Why media consumption enablement is a competitive advantage

  • How the mobile checkout experience can make or break sales

  • The danger of over-automation and what brands lose when they remove human touch

  • Lessons from rebuilding a crashed e-commerce site into a high-performing platform

  • Experiments that worked, ones that didn’t, and what they taught him

  • Why messaging matters more than friction—and how to get it right

If you’re navigating the ever-changing e-commerce landscape, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on customer behavior, digital strategy, and what’s actually driving conversions in 2025.

Listen now to hear how Justin is staying ahead of the curve and keeping his customers at the center of every decision.

]]> full 6 1 false In this episode of Checkin to Checkout, we sit down with Justin Rinaldi, Director of Marketing and E-Commerce at Safety Speed Manufacturing, to unpack the trends shaping how customers make purchasing decisions today.

From the decline of trust in search engines to the rise of "brand shepherds" (not influencers), Justin shares why building great user experiences—both on and off your site—is now mission-critical. We cover:

  • Why media consumption enablement is a competitive advantage

  • How the mobile checkout experience can make or break sales

  • The danger of over-automation and what brands lose when they remove human touch

  • Lessons from rebuilding a crashed e-commerce site into a high-performing platform

  • Experiments that worked, ones that didn’t, and what they taught him

  • Why messaging matters more than friction—and how to get it right

If you’re navigating the ever-changing e-commerce landscape, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on customer behavior, digital strategy, and what’s actually driving conversions in 2025.

Listen now to hear how Justin is staying ahead of the curve and keeping his customers at the center of every decision.

]]> 00:30:30 <![CDATA[Identifying Growth Levers for an E-commerce Business - Adam Riback]]> Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:48:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2101122 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/identifying-growth-levers-for-an-e-commerce-businessqea In this conversation, Adam Riback, Director of Digital at PS Seasoning, shares insights into the complexities of e-commerce marketing, the importance of understanding consumer behavior, and the challenges of managing digital strategies. He discusses his career journey, the role of agencies, the significance of consumer feedback, and the necessity of adapting to market changes. Adam emphasizes the importance of unit economics and the need for marketers to be proactive in testing and iterating strategies to drive growth.

Takeaways:

E-commerce marketers experience a range of emotions daily, influenced by consumer behavior and market conditions.
Balancing daily tasks with long-term strategy is crucial for success in e-commerce.
Box breathing and a structured approach to tasks can help manage stress and burnout.
Understanding unit economics is essential for making informed marketing decisions.
Testing and iterating on marketing strategies is key to finding successful growth opportunities.
Consumer feedback is vital for product development and marketing strategies.
Collaboration with agencies can enhance digital marketing efforts, but finding the right partner is essential.
E-commerce leaders must be adaptable and ready to pivot strategies based on market feedback.
The landscape of e-commerce is constantly evolving, requiring marketers to stay informed and agile.
Learning from failures is an integral part of growth and development in the e-commerce space.

 

 

]]> full 5 1 false In this conversation, Adam Riback, Director of Digital at PS Seasoning, shares insights into the complexities of e-commerce marketing, the importance of understanding consumer behavior, and the challenges of managing digital strategies. He discusses his career journey, the role of agencies, the significance of consumer feedback, and the necessity of adapting to market changes. Adam emphasizes the importance of unit economics and the need for marketers to be proactive in testing and iterating strategies to drive growth.

Takeaways:

E-commerce marketers experience a range of emotions daily, influenced by consumer behavior and market conditions.
Balancing daily tasks with long-term strategy is crucial for success in e-commerce.
Box breathing and a structured approach to tasks can help manage stress and burnout.
Understanding unit economics is essential for making informed marketing decisions.
Testing and iterating on marketing strategies is key to finding successful growth opportunities.
Consumer feedback is vital for product development and marketing strategies.
Collaboration with agencies can enhance digital marketing efforts, but finding the right partner is essential.
E-commerce leaders must be adaptable and ready to pivot strategies based on market feedback.
The landscape of e-commerce is constantly evolving, requiring marketers to stay informed and agile.
Learning from failures is an integral part of growth and development in the e-commerce space.

 

 

]]> 00:47:18 <![CDATA[How To Replatform an E-commerce Site - Brit Tucker]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2025 14:04:00 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2089882 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-replatform-an-e-commerce-site-brit-tucker In this episode of Checkin to Checkout, we sit down with Brit Tucker, VP of Product and Technology at Society6, to unpack the real-world chaos and clarity behind one of e-commerce’s most daunting projects: replatforming.

Brit leads a team that spans product, technology, UX, analytics, customer service, and operations—and recently spearheaded Society6’s successful 18-month migration to Shopify. She shares how her team balanced redesign with replatform, why “technical debt” is the number one sign it's time to replatform, and what made this her fastest replatform ever.

You'll hear:

  • How to spot when technical debt is stalling your growth

  • Why conversion rate optimization must start with first principles, not competitor copycats

  • What most brands forget to plan for during a replatform (hint: it's not engineering)

  • How Society6 saw major gains in add-to-cart and conversion rates post-migration

  • The leadership mistake Brit would fix if she did it again

Plus, Brit gets real about career detours, why failure often stems from solving the wrong problem, and how spiritual grounding (and yoga) helps her stay sane leading a 20+ person team across time zones.

Whether you're planning a replatform, in the messy middle, or just want to hear how a seasoned e-commerce leader builds with empathy and rigor—this episode is packed with sharp insights and refreshing honesty.

Listen now to learn how to replatform the right way—and why saying no might be your most valuable product strategy.

Chapters

  • (00:00:04) - Welcome to Checkin to Checkout
  • (00:00:42) - How to Manage Stress in the Workplace
  • (00:03:33) - Have You Got Enough Teams for Your Job?
  • (00:05:38) - How Can E-Commerce Leaders Build a Digital Product?
  • (00:07:55) - Sustainable Conversion: First Principles
  • (00:09:50) - How Did You Get Started in E-Commerce?
  • (00:11:22) - Mentors in E-Commerce
  • (00:13:03) - Have You Changed Anything In Your Past?
  • (00:14:38) - In the Elevator With Rich People
  • (00:21:24) - How Much Engineering Is Necessary for a Digital Initiative?
  • (00:22:33) - The Signs That Your Company Needs to Re-platform
  • (00:28:59) - Replatforming: The Big Things to Know
  • (00:31:37) - Does a Website Decently Need Navigation?
  • (00:35:37) - Did you see a conversion rate bump when you guys moved to Shop
  • (00:36:22) - E-commerce: The Future of Customer Engagement
  • (00:39:52) - The Untethered Soul by Alan Singer
]]> full 4 1 false In this episode of Checkin to Checkout, we sit down with Brit Tucker, VP of Product and Technology at Society6, to unpack the real-world chaos and clarity behind one of e-commerce’s most daunting projects: replatforming.

Brit leads a team that spans product, technology, UX, analytics, customer service, and operations—and recently spearheaded Society6’s successful 18-month migration to Shopify. She shares how her team balanced redesign with replatform, why “technical debt” is the number one sign it's time to replatform, and what made this her fastest replatform ever.

You'll hear:

  • How to spot when technical debt is stalling your growth

  • Why conversion rate optimization must start with first principles, not competitor copycats

  • What most brands forget to plan for during a replatform (hint: it's not engineering)

  • How Society6 saw major gains in add-to-cart and conversion rates post-migration

  • The leadership mistake Brit would fix if she did it again

Plus, Brit gets real about career detours, why failure often stems from solving the wrong problem, and how spiritual grounding (and yoga) helps her stay sane leading a 20+ person team across time zones.

Whether you're planning a replatform, in the messy middle, or just want to hear how a seasoned e-commerce leader builds with empathy and rigor—this episode is packed with sharp insights and refreshing honesty.

Listen now to learn how to replatform the right way—and why saying no might be your most valuable product strategy.

]]> 00:42:29 <![CDATA[How to Merge the Brand Experience with Trust - Girish Joshi]]> Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:40:26 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2064953 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/how-to-merge-the-brand-experience-with-trust-girish-josh What do you do when your therapist can’t handle your conversion rate anxiety?

You cancel therapy.

At least that’s what Girish Joshi did.

In this episode, Girish (Director of E-Commerce at LG) unloads the real emotional cost of running a P&L, why he checks revenue dashboards the way some people check horoscopes, and how irritation might be his secret superpower.

We get into:

  • Why most frameworks kill creativity

  • How to chase ideas that feel like “oh f***”

  • The surprisingly emotional side of attach rates and checkbox services

  • When your team doesn’t need consensus—they need your conviction

  • Why every E-Commerce director needs at least one diplomat on speed dial

  • And how he’s trying to turn LG into the Apple of appliances, one trusted fridge at a time

This episode is part group therapy, part MBA, and part stand-up set for over-caffeinated Directors of E-Com who are wondering if anyone else thinks like them.

(They do. And he’s on this episode.)

If you’ve ever canceled a vacation appetizer because your AOV dipped, this one’s for you.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - Interview
  • (00:01:48) - In the Elevator With ECommerce's Director of Therapy
  • (00:03:58) - Checking the Numbers
  • (00:06:43) - Amazon CEO on Creativity and Purpose
  • (00:08:17) - Don't Need a Frameworks
  • (00:11:17) - Getting Your Welcome Offer to the Right Level
  • (00:15:17) - e-commerce: Value vs. Services
  • (00:18:46) - Will Willpower: The Need for Trust
  • (00:20:57) - What's Your Biggest Strength and Weakest Element?
  • (00:22:49) - LG CEO on Stories in Sales
  • (00:27:10) - Justin on Leading From the Front
  • (00:30:28) - Confidence in the Data vs. Personal Intuition
  • (00:36:06) - Have You Ever Failed In Your Ideas?
  • (00:37:01) - How LG Is Making the Brand Experience Reliable
  • (00:39:22) - Three major areas of innovation at LG
  • (00:40:33) - How to Build a Connected Future for Appliances
  • (00:43:29) - LG CEO on E-Commerce Growth
  • (00:47:46) - E-commerce Insights: What Excites You?
]]> full 3 1 false What do you do when your therapist can’t handle your conversion rate anxiety?

You cancel therapy.

At least that’s what Girish Joshi did.

In this episode, Girish (Director of E-Commerce at LG) unloads the real emotional cost of running a P&L, why he checks revenue dashboards the way some people check horoscopes, and how irritation might be his secret superpower.

We get into:

  • Why most frameworks kill creativity

  • How to chase ideas that feel like “oh f***”

  • The surprisingly emotional side of attach rates and checkbox services

  • When your team doesn’t need consensus—they need your conviction

  • Why every E-Commerce director needs at least one diplomat on speed dial

  • And how he’s trying to turn LG into the Apple of appliances, one trusted fridge at a time

This episode is part group therapy, part MBA, and part stand-up set for over-caffeinated Directors of E-Com who are wondering if anyone else thinks like them.

(They do. And he’s on this episode.)

If you’ve ever canceled a vacation appetizer because your AOV dipped, this one’s for you.

]]> 00:50:51 <![CDATA[Using the Conversion Funnel to Enhance Brand Equity - Luis Spencer]]> Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:36:07 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2064949 https://podcast.mobile1st.com/episodes/using-the-conversion-funnel-to-enhance-brand-equity-luis-spencer In this episode of Check In to Checkout, Mobile1st’s CPO Justin Aronstein and Director of Optimization Connor Burke sit down with Luis, the dynamic Senior Director of Digital Route to Consumer at Moët Hennessy. What starts as a laugh over shorts at a formal sales convention turns into one of the most insightful deep dives we've had into modern e-commerce strategy.

Luis unpacks how digital is redefining brand-building in a category constrained by the 100-year-old U.S. three-tier system. He challenges the outdated idea that brand and conversion live in separate funnels, making the compelling case that seamless, well-timed ecommerce interactions are branding today. You’ll hear how he’s using platforms like Instacart and Uber Eats not just to sell—but to elevate premium brands like Veuve Clicquot and Hennessy.

He also shares:

  • The unexpected lessons from launching direct-to-consumer experiences that didn’t work

  • Why focusing only on your business objectives (and not the consumer's actual needs) leads to flops

  • His vision for how AI agents will change product discovery, recommendation, and even how brands get found online

  • A “digital anthropologist” lens on how consumer behavior has evolved—especially in high-regulation industries

  • His “video game” approach to e-commerce burnout and knowing when to put the controller down

Sprinkled throughout are honest reflections on failure, a killer Pokémon metaphor, and some top-tier anime and video game recommendations. Whether you're a director of e-commerce, a digital strategist, or just someone obsessed with where the customer journey is heading, this episode is packed with value.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - The Biggest Failure Of The Week
  • (00:01:18) - The Future of E-Commerce: Building a Brand
  • (00:03:11) - Clara's Kira on
  • (00:04:19) - Top Executives: Moet Hennessy's ECommerce
  • (00:05:46) - Three-Tier system in the US
  • (00:06:51) - The 3-Tier Alcohol Industry
  • (00:08:19) - What's your day-to-day
  • (00:11:02) - Bar and E-Commerce Director Burnout
  • (00:14:33) - Hennessy CEO on the Digital Revolution
  • (00:18:08) - On Real Conversations With the Customer
  • (00:19:20) - Alcohol Brand Chat Online
  • (00:22:10) - How Did I Get Into E-Commerce?
  • (00:27:21) - Mo Hennessy's Ash Ketchum
  • (00:28:16) - How many languages can you speak fluently
  • (00:29:21) - What Are Some Of Your Failures?
  • (00:34:07) - How E-Commerce is driving brand equity
  • (00:38:56) - Uber Eats: Brand Discovery
  • (00:41:26) - E-commerce: The Next Generation of Agents
  • (00:43:43) - Will AI Transform the Consumer Shopping Journey?
  • (00:45:58) - How Is AI Affecting Consumer Behavior?
  • (00:48:03) - Beyond the Book: What's on your Feed?
]]> full 1 1 false In this episode of Check In to Checkout, Mobile1st’s CPO Justin Aronstein and Director of Optimization Connor Burke sit down with Luis, the dynamic Senior Director of Digital Route to Consumer at Moët Hennessy. What starts as a laugh over shorts at a formal sales convention turns into one of the most insightful deep dives we've had into modern e-commerce strategy.

Luis unpacks how digital is redefining brand-building in a category constrained by the 100-year-old U.S. three-tier system. He challenges the outdated idea that brand and conversion live in separate funnels, making the compelling case that seamless, well-timed ecommerce interactions are branding today. You’ll hear how he’s using platforms like Instacart and Uber Eats not just to sell—but to elevate premium brands like Veuve Clicquot and Hennessy.

He also shares:

  • The unexpected lessons from launching direct-to-consumer experiences that didn’t work

  • Why focusing only on your business objectives (and not the consumer's actual needs) leads to flops

  • His vision for how AI agents will change product discovery, recommendation, and even how brands get found online

  • A “digital anthropologist” lens on how consumer behavior has evolved—especially in high-regulation industries

  • His “video game” approach to e-commerce burnout and knowing when to put the controller down

Sprinkled throughout are honest reflections on failure, a killer Pokémon metaphor, and some top-tier anime and video game recommendations. Whether you're a director of e-commerce, a digital strategist, or just someone obsessed with where the customer journey is heading, this episode is packed with value.

]]> 00:51:21 <![CDATA[Sell Stories Not Product - Kyle Cole]]> Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:33:32 +0000 Justin Aronstein https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/65201/episode/2064946 https://mobile1st.com Most e-commerce stories start with product-market fit.

This one started with Frodo.

On this episode of Check-In to Check-Out, we talk with Kyle Cole, co-founder of The Hero’s Journal—a journaling brand built on the idea that life gets easier when you start seeing yourself as the main character.

What started as a nerdy side project turned into a seven-figure DTC brand powered by story, community, and a refusal to send boring emails.

Kyle opens up about:

  • Accidentally going viral during quarantine with a “Quarantine Quest”

  • Scaling fulfillment from garage to 3PL—and the painful (but hilarious) budget mistake he made

  • What every e-commerce leader gets wrong about community building

  • How to forecast without deluding yourself

  • Why the best marketing emails sometimes have no CTA

If you’ve ever tried to justify a warehouse lease based on “the traffic you're manifesting” or had your team melt down over a 3PL gone rogue, this one’s for you.

It’s funny, vulnerable, and weirdly practical.

And yes, we talk about iOS 14.

Perfect for: Directors of E-Commerce, DTC operators, brand builders who think “community” isn’t just a Slack channel

Listen in and remember: you are the hero. Just maybe... also the operations oracle.

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - E-Commerce: The Hero's Journey
  • (00:01:40) - Kyle on the Podcast
  • (00:02:11) - What's Your Day to Day at Hero's Journey?
  • (00:02:42) - Have You Had A Good Week?
  • (00:03:32) - What's Your Best Strengths and Weaknesses?
  • (00:08:17) - The Story of The Book
  • (00:09:09) - Startups as a Way to Get Out of Debt
  • (00:12:41) - Do You Wish You Had Done This Lesson?
  • (00:17:13) - How To Grow an E-Commerce Business
  • (00:21:45) - Being Flexible in an E-commerce Business
  • (00:22:56) - Community as a Force multiplier for E-Commerce
  • (00:29:06) - Building a Community for Your Product
  • (00:31:32) - Send inspirational emails to your fans
  • (00:35:58) - E-Commerce Leadership: The Hero's Journal
]]> full 2 1 false Most e-commerce stories start with product-market fit.

This one started with Frodo.

On this episode of Check-In to Check-Out, we talk with Kyle Cole, co-founder of The Hero’s Journal—a journaling brand built on the idea that life gets easier when you start seeing yourself as the main character.

What started as a nerdy side project turned into a seven-figure DTC brand powered by story, community, and a refusal to send boring emails.

Kyle opens up about:

  • Accidentally going viral during quarantine with a “Quarantine Quest”

  • Scaling fulfillment from garage to 3PL—and the painful (but hilarious) budget mistake he made

  • What every e-commerce leader gets wrong about community building

  • How to forecast without deluding yourself

  • Why the best marketing emails sometimes have no CTA

If you’ve ever tried to justify a warehouse lease based on “the traffic you're manifesting” or had your team melt down over a 3PL gone rogue, this one’s for you.

It’s funny, vulnerable, and weirdly practical.

And yes, we talk about iOS 14.

Perfect for: Directors of E-Commerce, DTC operators, brand builders who think “community” isn’t just a Slack channel

Listen in and remember: you are the hero. Just maybe... also the operations oracle.

]]> 00:39:07