Podcast
Commerce Untold
Hosted by Eitan Koter · EN
Commerce Untold goes beyond the headlines to uncover the real stories shaping eCommerce and retail today.
Hosted by Eitan Koter, founder and CEO of Expanio, the show focuses on one of the hardest problems in commerce: how brands and retail-tech companies break into and scale in the U.S. market. Each episode gets into what that actually takes, from channel strategy and marketplaces to retail media, brand building, social commerce, live shopping, customer experience, and the technologies changing how people buy.
You'll hear from founders, CMOs, retail and eCommerce leaders, and operators who have done it, sharing what really drives U.S. growth behind the scenes. The wins, the missteps, the expensive lessons, and the insights you won't hear anywhere else.
If you care about how products get built, marketed, sold, and scaled in the U.S. and beyond, this one's for you.
36episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
205. Your Ads Are Failing And Here’s Why ft. Pamela Wagner
Apr 2900:28:45Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Commerce Untold, Eitan Koter sits down with Pamela Wagner, Founder and CEO of Ajala Digital, a Google Partner agency that has helped thousands of businesses grow through paid advertising.They get into a real conversation about what is actually working in ads today and what is not.Pamela explains why many brands struggle when they try to scale too fast. Small changes in budget can make a big difference, and constant adjustments can hurt performance more than help it.They also talk about why ads alone are not enough anymore. People need to see a brand multiple times before they trust it. That could be through content, reviews, or videos across different platformsThe conversation also covers the difference between Google and Meta, how each one fits into the customer journey, and why understanding that matters.They touch on attribution as well. Sometimes the simplest way to understand what works is not another tool, but asking customers directly or even turning a channel off to see what happens.It is a straightforward conversation that helps make sense of what to fix first before spending more.Website: https://www.vimmi.netEmail us: info@vimmi.netPodcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTubeGuest: Pamela Wagner, Founder/CEO at Ajala DigitalPamela Wagner’s LinkedIn | Ajala DigitalWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/G5uqVPTLS7wTakeaways:Algorithm changes and AI impact on ad platformsStrategies for scaling paid campaigns effectivelyThe role of organic marketing in paid ad successChapters:00:00 Introduction to Agila Digital and Pamela Wagner01:21 The Evolution of Advertising Strategies03:28 Balancing Budget and Scaling in Advertising06:09 The Importance of Organic Growth07:44 Building Trust Through Multi-Platform Engagement09:29 Meta vs. Google: Understanding Platform Differences11:41 Navigating Policy Violations in Advertising15:18 Exploring New Advertising Channels18:49 The Role of YouTube in Marketing Strategies21:19 Attribution Challenges in Advertising23:52 Testing and Experimentation in Campaigns25:30 Pamela's Journey with Agila Digital28:04 Creative Strategies in Advertising29:06 Final Thoughts and Advice
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204. Smarter Ads That Profit ft. Matt Raminick
Apr 1700:30:43Tap to summarizeEitan Koter is joined by Matt Raminick, Founder and CEO of Sunnyside, to talk about what’s really going on behind performance marketing numbers.They start with a simple idea, strong ROAS doesn’t always mean a healthy business. Matt explains how brands often rely too much on platform data without connecting it back to real revenue and costs.The conversation moves into what to focus on instead, like profitability at the order level, total marketing efficiency, and how to think about acquiring new customers the right way.They also cover a common mistake, pushing too hard for growth without checking if the spend actually makes sense. Matt shares how brands can reset and build a more stable approach.Towards the end, they talk about how much creative is needed today, how fast things move on Meta, and why keeping things simple with tools and data still works best.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: Matt Raminick, Founder & CEO at SunnysideMatt Raminick’s LinkedIn | SunnysideWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/wOb3OmkBm-cTakeaways:Performance marketing metrics that matterThe importance of diversification in marketing channelsBuilding sustainable and profitable brandsChapters:00:00 Introduction to Sunnyside and Its Unique Approach02:26 Understanding ROAS and Profitability Metrics05:15 The Importance of Customer Acquisition Costs07:49 Net Contribution Margins and Their Impact10:35 Transitioning from Brand to Agency13:33 Creative Strategies in Performance Marketing16:25 Balancing Growth and Profitability18:44 Diversification in Marketing Channels21:28 Tools and Technology for Performance Marketing24:15 Ideal Customer Profile for Sunnyside26:54 Creative Production and AI in Marketing28:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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203. Why Paid Ads Are Breaking Your Business ft. Adam Callinan
Apr 1000:30:37Tap to summarizeThere’s a point where more revenue doesn’t mean more profit. And that’s where things start to break.In this episode, Eitan Koter is joined by Adam Callinan, founder of Pentane, to talk about how ecommerce brands can actually make money, not just grow.Adam explains why many businesses look successful on the surface but struggle behind the scenes. He breaks down how to think about costs, margins, and the real drivers of profit in a way that’s easy to follow.The conversation also covers how founders should approach different stages of growth. What to focus on early, how to think about hiring, and why keeping things simple for as long as possible can make a big difference.They also touch on paid media, what founders often get wrong, and how to tell if it’s truly working.It’s a practical look at building a business that works long term, not just one that looks good from the outside.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: Adam Callinan, Founder/CEO at PentaneAdam Callinan’s LinkedIn | PentaneWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/hWTnZpio-_cTakeaways:Importance of contribution margin over revenueThe profit pyramid and financial structuringStages of business growth and cash flow managementThe role of AI and automation in operational efficiencyBuilding trust and onboarding clients in SaaS solutionsChapters:00:00 Introduction and Personal Values02:50 Balancing Curiosity and Leadership05:41 Understanding Revenue and Profitability08:31 The Profit Pyramid Explained11:29 Navigating Cash Flow Challenges14:18 The Importance of Staying Lean17:05 Paid Media Strategies for Founders19:58 Identifying Negative Trends in Business22:45 Efficiency and Technology in Operations25:44 Overview of Pentane and Its Offerings28:34 Building Trust and Customer Engagement30:25 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
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202. Why TikTok Beats Instagram for Sales ft. Iñigo Rivero
Apr 300:29:07Tap to summarizeEitan Koter is joined by Iñigo Rivero, co-founder and managing director at House of Marketers, a global TikTok Marketing Agency.They talk about how the platform has shifted over time, from a place for visibility to something much closer to a sales channel. Iñigo explains why many brands still approach influencer marketing the wrong way, and what actually drives results.The discussion covers the role of authentic content, why engagement matters more than follower count, and how TikTok’s algorithm gives new brands a chance to get seen.They also break down how TikTok Shop is opening up new opportunities for both brands and creators, and how social commerce is becoming easier to track and scale.It’s a clear conversation on what brands should focus on if they want to make TikTok work for them.Website: https://www.vimmi.netEmail us: info@vimmi.netPodcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTubeGuest: Iñigo Rivero, Co-Founder & Managing Director at House of MarketersIñigo Rivero’s LinkedIn | House of MarketersWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/V_DA-VWIt8MTakeaways:Resilience is crucial for personal and business growth.Growth often comes from mistakes and tough feedback.TikTok's authenticity sets it apart from other platforms.Social commerce is the future of TikTok.The algorithm prioritizes engaging content over follower count.Brands can expand internationally through TikTok Shop.Forecasting is essential for scaling a business effectively.Health and beauty products perform well on TikTok.Understanding local markets is key for international brands.Influencer marketing requires a balance of creativity and strategy.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Influencer Marketing and Resilience02:44 The Evolution of TikTok and Its Unique Appeal05:15 The Rise of Social Commerce on TikTok08:01 Influencer Marketing Strategies and TikTok Shop10:33 The Importance of Authenticity and Engagement13:16 SEO and Discovery on TikTok15:56 House of Marketers: Agency Insights and Growth18:53 Navigating International Markets with TikTok21:38 Challenges in Influencer Marketing and Agency Growth24:17 Building a High-Performing Team in a Remote Environment27:00 Conclusion and Future of Influencer Marketing
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201. Retail Strategy Tips Every Ecommerce Founder Needs ft. Rebekah Kondrat
Mar 2700:32:04Tap to summarizeWelcome to Commerce Untold.In this episode, host Eitan Koter sits down with Rebekah Kondrat, Founder of Recon Retail, a company that helps ecommerce and DTC brands launch and scale physical stores.Rebekah has worked with brands like Apple, Starbucks, Warby Parker, Outdoor Voices, and Joybird. Today, she partners with growing brands that are ready to expand beyond online sales and build retail the right way.Together, they unpack the idea that retail is dying. Rebekah explains that most purchases still happen in person and that brands cannot rely on a single channel anymore. Online only brands are opening stores, and store based brands must strengthen their ecommerce presence. The future is about making both work together.She shares when a DTC brand should consider opening its first store, why revenue around 10 million dollars can be a helpful benchmark, and why your first location should be close enough for leadership to stay connected to customers.They also discuss what separates profitable stores from the rest, how product selection should vary by region, and why operations can make or break the retail experience.If you are thinking about expanding from ecommerce into physical retail, this episode gives you a clear place to start.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: Rebekah Kondrat, Founder and Managing Partner at rekon retailRebekah Kondrat’s LinkedIn | rekon retailWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/e7-kvX3Qe4gTakeaways:Retail is still a significant part of the economy, despite the rise of e-commerce.Brands need to evolve and adapt to stay relevant in the retail space.A multi-channel approach is essential for modern brands.Recon Retail acts as an embedded partner to help brands open physical stores.Successful retail operations require a focus on customer experience and operational efficiency.The role of retail staff is evolving beyond traditional sales roles.AI can streamline retail operations and enhance customer interactions.Brands should consider their first store location carefully to maximize learning and engagement.Every store should be designed to be profitable, not just as a marketing tool.Understanding customer demographics and preferences is crucial for retail success.Chapters:00:00 The Resilience of Retail03:48 Evolving with the Industry09:47 Recon Retail's Unique Approach15:36 Building Successful Retail Operations21:55 The Future of Retail Staff25:25 Innovations in Retail Experience29:10 Identifying Ideal Customers
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200. The Truth About Creator Marketing ROI with Megan Vasquez
Feb 1900:31:56Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, host Eitan Koter sits down with Megan Vasquez, Director of Creator Strategy and Strategic Marketing at Grin.Megan shares what she has learned from working across beauty brands, agencies, and large e-commerce companies. Creator marketing is no longer a side project. It is expected to deliver results.They cover how to forecast revenue from influencers, how to align campaign goals with the right creators, and why reducing friction in the buying process makes a big difference.Megan also talks about TikTok Shop, affiliate strategy, and the importance of long term creator relationships.If you want a clearer view of how creator marketing drives sales today, this episode is worth listening to.Website: https://www.vimmi.netEmail us: info@vimmi.netPodcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTubeGuest: Megan Vasquez, Director of Creator Strategy & Strategic Marketing at GRINMegan Vasquez’s LinkedIn | GRINWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/4J9Dit-kIC4Takeaways:The creator economy is evolving and growing rapidly.Data-driven marketing is essential for success in the creator space.AI can help streamline processes and enhance creativity.TikTok has revolutionized e-commerce and product discovery.Brands must focus on building authentic relationships with creators.Neglecting brand affinity can lead to poor performance in campaigns.Long-term contracts with creators foster trust and better results.Clicks and audience sentiment are crucial KPIs for campaigns.User-generated content often outperforms traditional marketing.Grin is focused on meeting market needs with innovative solutions.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Creator Economy02:29 The Evolution of the Creator Economy05:18 Data-Driven Marketing in the Creator Space08:14 Balancing Self-Service and Hand-Holding in SaaS11:08 The Role of AI in Marketing and Content Creation13:49 The Impact of TikTok on Social Shopping16:45 Common Mistakes in Creator Programs19:49 Building Long-Term Relationships with Creators22:47 Key Performance Indicators for Campaign Success25:26 Future Plans for Grin and the Creator Economy
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199. Why Your Amazon Page Isn’t Converting with Daniela Bolzmann
Feb 1200:29:36Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, host Eitan Koter sits down with Daniela Bolzmann, Founder of Mindful Goods, to talk about what actually moves the needle on Amazon today.Daniela works with brands around the world on Amazon creative, SEO, and conversion, and she spends her days testing what works and what does not. The conversation opens with how Daniela thinks about business, from abundance and gratitude to building systems that support long term growth.From there, they get into the real work. Daniela breaks down the Amazon funnel in plain terms, starting with getting found through titles and bullets, then earning the click with main images, and finally converting shoppers once they land on the listing. She explains why so many brands still treat Amazon like Shopify, and how that mistake shows up in missed sales.They also talk about testing, creative refresh cycles, and how competition reacts when something starts working. This episode feels like two operators comparing notes on how Amazon actually works right now.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: Daniela Anavitarte Bolzmann, CEO & Founder at Mindful GoodsDaniela Anavitarte Bolzmann’s LinkedIn | Mindful GoodsGet The ULTIMATE Amazon Product Image Swipe File!Watch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/cEwxxRle_MoTakeaways:Abundance is a mindset that opens doors.AI tools are essential for modern creative processes.Optimizing titles and bullets can significantly increase sales.Main images are crucial for attracting clicks on Amazon.Every image should address customer objections or questions.Amazon marketing requires a balance of conversion and traffic strategies.Continuous testing is key to finding winning variants.Understanding your ideal customer is vital for effective marketing.Visual storytelling enhances product appeal and conversion rates.Brands must adapt their strategies to remain competitive.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Abundance and Flow02:51 Navigating Changes in Amazon Marketing05:31 Leveraging AI in Creative Processes08:40 Building an Organic Amazon Strategy11:14 Optimizing Product Listings for Conversion16:06 The Importance of Visual Storytelling19:02 Understanding Organic vs Paid Strategies24:48 Identifying Your Ideal Customer28:24 Resources and Closing Thoughts
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198. How To Launch A Beauty Brand with David Feuerstein
Feb 600:29:35Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, Eitan Koter welcomes David Feuerstein, Founder and CBO of CREATOR, a company rethinking how beauty brands are made.David shares how CREATOR makes it possible for creators, influencers, and DTC brands to launch real beauty products without massive upfront inventory or long development cycles. What used to take months and large checks can now start with small runs that grow based on demand.Eitan and David talk through why beauty has lagged behind apparel when it comes to on-demand production, and what changes when manufacturing, storefronts, and sales data are finally connected. David explains how this approach helps brands avoid overstocking, missed sales, and cash tied up in warehouses.They also cover how AI supports better forecasting, smoother production planning, and smarter marketing decisions, especially when campaigns take off faster than expected.Along the way, David shares stories from working with creators and DTC brands that started with a few hundred units and scaled to tens of thousands, all without switching factories or rebuilding their supply chain.If you’re thinking about launching a beauty brand, expanding an existing one, or just want to understand how creators are moving beyond affiliate links into real ownership, this episode sets the stage.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: David Feuerstein, Founder & CBO at Cre8orDavid Feuerstein’s LinkedIn | Cre8orWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/3ButC4BxbGMTakeaways:Launching beauty products is complex due to compliance, formulation, and manufacturing.Cre8or gives creators and brands access to on-demand beauty manufacturing.Inventory is one of the biggest risks for growing brands.Starting small and scaling with demand lowers financial pressure.Creators are moving beyond affiliate links to owning products.AI supports forecasting, production timing, and inventory planning.The future of beauty favors speed, flexibility, and lower risk.Chapters:00:00 Welcome and guest intro01:16 Values that guide David’s work03:47 What Cre8or does05:06 Why beauty is harder than merch06:25 Challenges creators face09:02 Inventory and risk13:32 Scaling without overstock15:34 Manufacturing meets demand21:00 AI and forecasting24:39 The future of beauty brands28:16 How to work with Cre8or
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197. Email Marketing Secrets Every Shopify Brand Needs with Jordan Gordon
Feb 400:29:20Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, Eitan Koter welcomes Jordan Gordon, Head of Email Retention and CRO at Pilot House Digital, and the host of the World’s Best Email Retention Podcast.Jordan shares how he found his way into email early on, why he stayed focused on it, and how that focus turned into a long-term advantage. The conversation centers on one simple idea. Brands cannot scale efficiently if retention is treated as an afterthought.They talk through what Jordan sees when auditing Shopify and Klaviyo accounts, how email revenue compares to paid media, and why the cheapest customer is often the one you already have. Jordan explains how email supports ads behind the scenes, improves return on spend, and creates room to grow without increasing costs.On the CRO side, Jordan walks through how he looks at funnels, where most sites lose momentum, and why homepage and product page paths matter more than most teams expect. He also explains why simplifying choices and highlighting hero products often works better than complex redesigns.They close with a look at the inbox today, why automation matters more than constant campaigns, and how brands can stay visible without wearing out their list.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: Jordan Gordon, Head of Email, Retention and CRO at Pilothouse DigitalJordan Gordon’s LinkedIn | Pilothouse DigitalWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/-GQliosqjjkTakeaways:Scale, depth, and dedication are crucial in e-commerce.Email retention can significantly impact revenue.Your cheapest buyer is the buyer you already have.Email is a 50-year-old protocol that remains vital.Email marketing is the most prolific communication system.A tight campaign window and automation are essential for success.Focus on the landing pad for traffic to improve results.Retention tactics can prevent leaving money on the table.Understanding the connection between bottom-of-funnel and advertising success is key.Optimizing conversion rates requires understanding user funnels and choke points.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to E-commerce Retention Strategies02:50 The Importance of Scale, Depth, and Dedication05:18 Email Retention: The Bottom of the Funnel08:22 Connecting Email and Advertising Success11:08 The Riddle of Email as a Profit Center13:46 Optimizing Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) Strategies16:28 Understanding User Funnels and Choke Points19:17 Measuring Success in CRO21:55 The Future of Email Marketing in 202624:40 The World's Best Email Retention Podcast
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196. Franchise Startup Guide for First-Time Owners with Jon Ostenson
Jan 3000:28:51Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, host Eitan Koter sits down with Jon Ostenson, Founder, CEO and Consultant at FranBridge Consulting, for a grounded conversation about franchising and how it actually works in the real world.Jon has spent years on both sides of the table. He’s run a franchise system, invested as a franchisee, and now works closely with entrepreneurs and business owners who are deciding whether franchising makes sense for them.Together, they talk through what franchising really means beyond the headlines. Jon explains how franchise models are structured, why non food franchises are growing fast, and what people should consider before choosing between starting a business, buying one, or joining a franchise system.They also cover common mistakes, like underestimating the work involved or moving too fast. Jon shares how territories are protected, how financing usually works, and what strong franchise operators tend to have in place to support their owners.This episode is a clear, honest look at franchising for anyone thinking about business ownership, growth, or expansion without starting from scratch.Website: https://www.vimmi.net Email us: info@vimmi.net Podcast website: https://vimmi.net/mastering-ecommerce-marketing/ Talk to us on Social:Eitan Koter’s LinkedIn | Vimmi LinkedIn | YouTube Guest: Jon Ostenson, Founder, CEO and Consultant at FranBridge ConsultingJon Ostenson’s LinkedIn | FranBridge ConsultingWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/AVuocPOHg6QTakeaways:Franchising provides a support system for entrepreneurs.It's essential to evaluate the franchise model before investing.Common mistakes include underestimating the work involved in franchising.Timing is crucial; the right moment to start may never come.Franchising can be a viable expansion strategy for existing businesses.A strong leadership team is vital for franchise success.Understanding the investment and revenue structure is key.Franchisees need protection in their territories to succeed.Non-food franchises are gaining popularity and profitability.Building an asset through franchising offers long-term benefits.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Franchising and Personal Insights03:04 The Franchise Model Explained05:47 Key Considerations for Entrepreneurs08:35 Evaluating Franchise Opportunities11:32 Mistakes to Avoid in Franchising14:16 Franchising as a Growth Strategy17:29 The Role of Support in Franchising20:09 Protecting Franchisees and Territory Management23:07 Investment and Revenue Structure in Franchising25:58 Resources and Next Steps for Interested Entrepreneurs28:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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