Hosted by Eitan Koter · EN

In this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, host Eitan Koter sits down with Talor Ofer, founder of Retail Empire, to talk about what it really takes for brands to get into brick and mortar retail in the US.Talor has spent more than 25 years working directly with retail buyers and helping brands move from online-only sales into physical stores. At Retail Empire, his team connects vendors with buyers across hundreds of retail chains, from specialty stores to major big-box retailers.In this conversation, Eitan and Talor talk through why retail still plays such a big role in 2026, even as more brands start online. Talor explains why many founders are closer to retail-ready than they think, and what usually holds them back.They cover how buyers make decisions today, why samples matter more than most brands realize, and what retailers look for beyond just a good product. Talor also breaks down pricing expectations, common mistakes that slow deals down, and how brands should think about wholesale, packaging, and supply chain before approaching buyers.If you’re running a DTC brand, selling on Amazon, or thinking about wholesale for the first time, this episode gives a clear look at how retail actually works, straight from someone who’s in those conversations every day.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: Talor Ofer, Founder at Retail EmpireTalor Ofer’s LinkedIn | Retail EmpireWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/f6-nuwE5-NATakeaways:Retail is a crucial channel for brands, despite the rise of D2C.Brands must ensure they have a solid supply chain before entering retail.Packaging is key; it should communicate the product's value quickly.Retail buyers are looking for brands with a compelling story.Fast decision-making is becoming more common among retail buyers.Pricing strategies are evolving due to market competition and tariffs.Samples are essential for securing orders from retailers.Understanding the setup process with retailers is critical for success.Brands should be aware of market trends to stay relevant.Loyalty and honesty are foundational for long-term business relationships.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Retail Empire and Talor Ofer01:06 Preparing Brands for Big Box Retail02:41 Timing for Retail Entry: When to Go Big05:22 Common Reasons for Retailer Rejections07:40 Understanding Buyer Decision-Making in 202609:42 The Retail Empire Process: Qualifying Opportunities12:55 The Importance of Samples in Retail14:51 Approaching Retailers: Big vs. Small16:43 Handling Initial Shipments and Training18:29 Marketing and Packaging Considerations19:32 Managing Inventory and Demand Spikes21:01 Sales Cycle: From Introduction to Orders22:26 Technology and Support Systems for Brands23:42 Trends and Innovations in Retail24:20 Exclusivity Terms in Retail Contracts25:40 Dealing with Unsold Inventory27:03 Core Values: Honesty, Transparency, and Loyalty28:14 Connecting with Retail Empire
In this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, Eitan Koter sits down with Avani Oswal, Head of Digital at Elizée and Founder at Catalyst.Avani works closely with retail brands, eCommerce teams, and tech startups, helping them make sense of where technology actually fits into their day to day work. She brings a grounded point of view shaped by real experience, not trends for the sake of trends.They talk about how teams can test new tools without overcommitting, why measuring results matters more than adding more software, and how personalization is finally becoming something brands can deliver in meaningful ways. Avani also shares why clean product data is now just as important as design when it comes to being discovered.The conversation touches on how shopping behavior is shifting, how people want answers faster, and what brands need to do to show up when customers are searching differently. Later on, Avani explains why she started Catalyst and how retail leaders are learning from each other in smaller, more honest settings.It’s a clear, thoughtful conversation about what to focus on and how to move forward without making things harder than they need to be.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: Avani Oswal, Head of Digital at Elizée | Founder at CatalystAvani Oswal’s LinkedIn | Elizée | CatalystWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/XmgZXrFuehQTakeaways:Curiosity drives learning and innovation in retail.Testing AI solutions is crucial for understanding their impact.Personalization is evolving towards one-to-one experiences.Clean data is essential for effective discoverability.Customer expectations are rising, demanding better experiences.Building relationships is key to success in business.AI can significantly improve inventory management.The retail landscape is rapidly changing, requiring agility.Consolidation of tools in e-commerce is on the horizon.Community building fosters knowledge sharing and collaboration.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Avni Oswal and Her Values02:54 The Impact of AI on E-commerce and Retail05:27 Testing and Measuring AI Solutions08:25 Personalization in E-commerce11:19 The Shift from Search to Answer Engines14:07 Data Management and AI Integration16:55 Catalyst Community and Its Purpose19:57 Emerging Trends in Retail and AI22:36 Advising AI Startups and Building Relationships

In this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, host Eitan Koter sits down with Jason Greenwood, founder of Greenwood Consulting and host of the eCommerce Edge podcast.Jason has spent over 25 years working across eCommerce, with a sharp focus on B2B. The conversation centers on why B2B commerce has followed a very different path than DTC, and why many manufacturers and distributors are only now taking digital seriously.They talk about how COVID accelerated change, why marketplaces are one of the fastest-growing B2B channels, and what modern B2B buyers actually expect from suppliers today. Jason also explains why traditional KPIs like AOV and conversion rate don’t tell the full story in B2B, and what metrics matter more.The episode also covers change management, sales team resistance, and how technology should support people instead of replacing them. Toward the end, Jason shares his take on when DTC brands should start thinking about wholesale and distribution, and what happens when they wait too long.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: Jason Greenwood, Founder & Lead Consultant at Greenwood ConsultingJason Greenwood’s LinkedIn | Greenwood ConsultingWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/luahzCh6-fATakeaways:• B2B e-commerce is significantly behind B2C but is catching up rapidly.• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the need for digital transformation in B2B.• Sales teams often resist digital changes due to traditional practices.• Change management is crucial for successful digital adoption in B2B.• B2B relationships are long-term and require a human touch.• Digital channels are essential for B2B growth and efficiency.• AI can enhance B2B operations but should not replace human interaction.• D2C brands should consider B2B as a growth channel once stable.• Understanding KPIs in B2B is different from B2C due to higher AOVs.• Technology plays a vital role in the future of B2B e-commerce.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background01:00 Understanding B2B E-commerce08:58 Digital Channels in B2B13:48 Change Management in B2B Transformation17:49 Key Performance Indicators in B2B22:13 Technology Building Blocks for B2B25:21 D2C Brands and B2B Opportunities31:18 Personal Values and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, host Eitan Koter chats with Lars Hauwert, founder of Howard Consulting and former owner of Nancy Home Store, a home goods brand he built and scaled across Europe.Lars shares his journey from running his own store to helping brands improve their funnels end to end. He explains why product quality and clear offers still come first, even with better ads, tools, and AI. They talk about common conversion blockers, the role of trust on a website, and why making it easy for customers to reach you still matters.The conversation also covers paid media, testing budgets, creative formats, and how founders should think about growth timelines. Lars is honest about mistakes he made, especially around retention, and why ignoring past customers is one of the biggest missed opportunities in eCommerce.They wrap up with thoughts on AI, content creation, and how brands can grow faster by staying focused on fundamentals.A straightforward conversation for anyone running or scaling an online store.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: Lars Hauwert, Founder & CEO at Hauwert ConsultingLars Hauwert’s LinkedIn | Hauwert ConsultingWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/fZsUt1D9FZkTakeaways:Care about your family and friends.Strive for excellence in everything you do.Dedication to the process is key.Having a solid product is crucial for success.Focus on optimizing your website for conversions.Utilize AI for marketing and efficiency.Invest in both traffic acquisition and customer retention.A unique product assortment enhances brand value.Allocate 80-90% of your budget to ads.Building a successful e-commerce business takes time.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to E-commerce Success02:49 Core Values and Personal Philosophy05:21 Challenges in E-commerce08:24 Product Management and Sourcing11:09 Conversion Optimization Strategies14:00 Traffic Acquisition Techniques16:54 The Importance of Patience in E-commerce19:47 Omnichannel Strategies for Success20:53 Product Assortment for Longevity22:49 The Role of AI in E-commerce25:55 Advice for E-commerce Growth28:59 Marketing Budget Allocation30:17 Creating Engaging Content
In this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, Eitan Koter welcomes Rob te Braake, founder of Insight Matters, to talk about how eCommerce brands should really think about finance.Rob works with founders as a fractional CFO, helping them set up accounting and reporting in a way that supports real decision-making. He’s also been an operator himself, which shows up throughout the conversation. He understands the pressure of choosing between ads, inventory, payroll, and growth, because he’s lived it.Together, they talk about why revenue alone doesn’t tell the full story, how cash flow problems often start with inventory and financing costs, and why many brands rely on numbers that aren’t built for management decisions. Rob explains what founders should look for in their P&L, how forecasting improves over time, and why trying to automate thinking with AI can miss the mark.They also cover exit planning, what makes a business attractive to buyers, and why trust in the numbers matters more than anything else.This episode is a grounded conversation for founders who want clarity, fewer surprises, and a better handle on how money actually moves through their business.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: Rob te Braake, Founder at Insight MattersRob te Braake’s LinkedIn | Insight MattersIs your financial setup holding back your eCommerce Growth? Find out here: http://financeinsightmatters.com/masteringecommercemarketingWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/FYkZAU5lzXkTakeaways:Freedom is a core driver for entrepreneurship.Values are essential for meaningful work.Management accounting is crucial for e-commerce success.Financial data should be used for decision-making, not just compliance.Sales forecasting is key to optimizing cash flow.Clean financial records build trust with potential buyers.Understanding the cost of financing is vital for profitability.E-commerce businesses need to prepare for exits well in advance.Data-driven insights can steer companies toward success.Founders must engage actively in financial management.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Strategic Financing and Management Accounting01:50 Rob's Journey and Entrepreneurial Spirit03:45 The Importance of Management Accounting05:27 Understanding Management vs. Tax Accounting07:33 The Three Tiers of Financial Management09:02 Prioritizing Data for Business Decisions10:27 The Financial Hierarchy of Needs12:01 Preparing for an Exit: Key Considerations13:39 The Importance of Clean Financial Records16:50 Profitability vs. Cash Flow Management18:41 The Operator's Advantage in Finance19:57 Revenue vs. Profitability: The Ongoing Debate21:08 Case Study: Turning Around a Struggling E-commerce Business22:53 Immediate Financial Recommendations for Founders23:58 Facilitating Financial Management for Founders25:32 Engagement Models and Initial Steps

In this episode, Eitan Koter sits down with Dan Chorlton, CEO and co-founder of Goa Marketing. Goa Marketing is a SaaS platform that helps enterprise advertisers get more from their Google Ads budgets. Dan and his team have managed and optimized over a billion pounds in paid search, partnering with brands like MoneySupermarket to improve returns and reduce wasted spend.They start with the story behind Goa, including why the name stands for Governance, Opportunity, and Accountability. Dan explains how these three pillars guide their approach to managing campaigns at scale, from keeping track of errors to spotting new opportunities and showing leadership clear results.Eitan asks about the biggest gaps in Google Ads today, and Dan shares how automation and the right processes can make a major difference. They talk about where money often leaks out of campaigns, why testing matters, and how to set up experiments that lead to real improvements.They also discuss Google’s latest ad formats, the impact of Performance Max, and how to balance automation with control. Dan offers his perspective on why ad copy testing still matters, the importance of a strong value proposition, and how small changes can have a large impact.If you run Google Ads, whether you are spending millions a year or just getting started, you will hear clear ideas for making your budget work harder and your results stronger.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: Dan Chorlton, CEO (interim) & Founding Director at GOA MarketingDan Chorlton’s LinkedIn | GOA MarketingTakeaways:Adaptability is crucial in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape.Testing and analyzing results rigorously is essential for success.Maximizing advertising spend efficiency can lead to significant cost savings.Understanding consumer needs is key to effective marketing strategies.AI is transforming the way digital marketing is approached.Brand safety must be prioritized in automated advertising processes.Companies often overlook the importance of customer feedback in their campaigns.Effective ad copy and creative elements are vital for attracting consumers.It's important to focus on relevant keywords and exact match for lead generation.Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary to stay competitive in digital marketing.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Dan Charlton and Goa Marketing02:53 The Importance of Adaptability in Digital Marketing05:41 Identifying Gaps in Google Ads08:49 Maximizing Spend Efficiency in Advertising11:26 Common Mistakes in Google Ads Campaigns14:20 The Role of AI in Digital Marketing17:12 Automation and Brand Safety in Advertising19:45 Navigating Changes in Google Ads22:42 Understanding Client Needs and Niche Markets25:34 Tips for Companies Starting with Google Ads28:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Mastering eCommerce Marketing, host Eitan Koter talks with Matt Putra, a Fractional CFO and founder of Eightx.Matt helps eCommerce and CPG businesses making between $5 and $100 million scale profitably and sustainably. His main focus is helping companies simplify finances and manage their cash flow clearly.Matt explains the critical difference between profit and cash flow, noting why having money in the bank is often more important than simply showing profits on paper.He highlights common mistakes businesses make, especially holding onto too much inventory. Matt points out how excess inventory quietly drains cash, limiting opportunities for growth.Matt also shares easy-to-follow advice on cash flow forecasting, emphasizing the value of regular financial check-ins. He believes staying financially healthy comes down to asking simple questions consistently, paying attention to key numbers, and adjusting quickly.Eitan and Matt discuss the importance of operational efficiency. Matt stresses that in today’s market, being great at the basics is essential. He suggests businesses start experimenting with top-of-funnel marketing activities to reduce customer acquisition costs, even if results aren't instantly measurable.Throughout the conversation, Matt offers practical tips that any business owner can immediately implement. His approach makes finances straightforward and manageable, even if numbers aren't your strongest suit.This episode is perfect for founders who want a clear understanding of their company's financial health without complicated jargon or stress.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 Putra, Fractional CFO at EightxMatt Putra’s LinkedIn | EightxWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/4k03m3Mg0gMTakeaways:Cash flow is crucial for business survival, not just profit.Understanding the difference between cash flow and profit is essential.E-commerce and CPG companies face unique cash flow challenges.Effective cash flow forecasting involves understanding budget drivers.A fractional CFO can provide invaluable support for growing businesses.Common financial mistakes include poor bookkeeping and over-inventorying.Operational excellence is key in a tightening financial environment.Top-of-funnel marketing can significantly impact customer acquisition costs.Regularly reviewing financials can uncover opportunities for improvement.Don't be emotionally attached to underperforming products.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Financial Clarity03:30 Understanding Cash Flow vs. Profit06:02 Cash Flow Challenges in E-commerce and CPG08:47 Best Practices for Cash Flow Forecasting11:56 The Role of a Fractional CFO13:22 Common Financial Mistakes in Business15:10 The Dangers of Over-Inventorying17:59 Preparing for Growth Amidst Chaos21:48 Navigating Financial Crises25:36 When to Hire a Fractional CFO27:53 Final Thoughts on Marketing and Growth

Today, Eitan Koter is joined by Rich Kahn, CEO of Anura.io, and a veteran in the digital marketing world. With over 31 years of experience and multiple multimillion-dollar companies under his belt, Rich has spent the last two decades focused on solving one major problem: ad fraud.He’s also been named an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Technology, which speaks to the level of trust companies place in his work.In this episode, Rich and Eitan talk about a challenge most marketers face without even realizing it. Whether you're running paid media, using affiliates, or investing in programmatic ads, a portion of your traffic is likely fake. Rich says the average is around 20 to 25 percent, and it can be much higher depending on the channel.He explains how bad traffic gets through, what to look for, and why things like CAPTCHA don’t offer much protection anymore. You’ll hear about the tactics fraudsters use to get paid, including human click farms and bots that mimic real users. More importantly, Rich shares what brands can do about it.He walks through how Anura helps companies figure out where fraud is coming from, how much damage it's causing, and how to stop paying for traffic that doesn’t convert. It’s not about big teams or complex systems. In most cases, it starts with a simple tag on your site and a clear plan of action.If your team is putting budget into digital ads and wondering why results aren’t lining up, this episode will help you understand where that money might be going.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: Rich Kahn, CEO and Co-Founder at Anura.ioRich Kahn’s LinkedIn | Anura.ioWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/jtylO3eGgE0Takeaways:Passion is essential in business.Diligence is key to understanding your market.Loyalty to customers and staff is crucial.Ad fraud costs the industry over $140 billion annually.Fraud can reach up to 50% in certain marketing channels.Identifying fraud requires dedicated resources and technology.AI and machine learning are vital in fraud detection.Brands must continuously monitor for fraud to protect their investments.The majority of fraud comes from organized crime.Effective fraud prevention can significantly improve ROI.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Rich Khan and His Expertise03:16 Understanding Ad Fraud and Its Impact08:21 The Mechanics of Fraud in Digital Marketing13:34 Identifying Red Flags of Fraud17:03 Innovations in Fraud Detection Technology21:43 Steps to Combat Ad Fraud27:21 Target Audience and Client Engagement30:21 Conclusion and Resources for Learning

On this episode, host Eitan Koter welcomes Wilson Zehr, CEO of Zairmail.Wilson has over 25 years in tech, innovation, and business strategy. He has helped launch eight tech startups and raised more than $60 million in venture capital.He has also spent years teaching marketing and entrepreneurship at the university level.Now, Wilson leads Zairmail. The company makes sending direct mail as simple as sending an email.In today's world, where inboxes are crowded and digital ads get ignored, Wilson believes direct mail is making a real comeback.Brands, startups, and political campaigns are turning to mail to reach people in ways that digital channels cannot.Wilson explains how direct mail cuts through the noise, reaches every home and business, and offers precise audience targeting.He shares how automation and data make it easy for brands to get the right message to the right people at the right time.Eitan and Wilson talk about how timing, good lists, and a strong offer are key to any campaign's success.Wilson brings real examples of what works and what to watch out for.His advice is practical, not just theory. He believes marketing should be about what gets results, not just chasing the latest trend.Whether you are a marketer, founder, or just curious, you will pick up clear ideas you can use right away.Tune in to learn why direct mail is back in the spotlight and how it could help your business stand out.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: Wilson Zehr, Founder & CEO at ZairmailWilson Zehr’s LinkedIn | ZairmailWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/R4nMhe6Nzo4Takeaways:Direct mail is experiencing a resurgence due to digital fatigue.It reaches every household and business six days a week.Direct mail is proactive and can engage customers at the right time.ROI is a key driver for direct mail campaigns.Understanding the customer journey is essential for effective marketing.Sales and marketing are critical for startup success.Data-driven marketing enhances targeting and effectiveness.AI should be viewed as a tool to enhance marketing efforts.Entrepreneurs need support and resources to succeed.Zairmail offers innovative solutions for direct mail automation.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Wilson Zare and Zairmail02:41 The Comeback of Direct Mail in a Digital World05:25 Advantages of Direct Mail Over Digital Marketing07:57 Integrating Direct Mail into Omnichannel Strategies10:40 Case Study: School Bond Initiative in Oregon15:38 The Importance of Targeted Messaging18:19 Sales and Marketing in Startups21:00 The Role of Data in Direct Mail Campaigns23:34 AI in Marketing and Direct Mail28:43 Conclusion and Resources

Welcome back to Mastering eCommerce Marketing with your host, Eitan Koter.Today’s guest is Will Haire, co-founder of BellaVix, a marketplace marketing agency focused on helping brands grow on Amazon and Walmart.Will’s background is full of hands-on experience. He’s helped first-time sellers launch from scratch, and worked with big names like Instant Pot and Wilton to build serious Amazon sales.BellaVix is a Verified Amazon Advertising Partner and part of the Amazon Service Provider Network. That gives Will and his team a close-up view of what actually works for brands of all sizes.In this episode, Will talks about why a boutique, hands-on approach matters, and how being a real partner helps brands succeed.He shares some common mistakes brands make on Amazon, like worrying it will steal sales from their website or ignoring the risk of bad product listings hurting their reputation.Will also breaks down why it’s better to focus on mastering one platform instead of trying to be everywhere at once.Thinking about launching on Amazon? Will shares where to start, how to protect your brand with trademarks and Brand Registry, and which tools are actually worth using for optimization.He also opens up about what drives him: family, faith, and a passion for helping others figure out the Amazon puzzle.Will’s honest about the ups and downs of running an agency, how hard it can be to find the right team, and why he still loves being involved in the day-to-day strategy.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your marketplace business to the next level, you’ll find a lot of practical tips and real talk in this episode.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: Will Haire, CEO & CoFounder at BellaVixWill Haire’s LinkedIn | BellaVixWatch the full Youtube video here:https://youtu.be/GqHIpUeKJI4Takeaways:Family is a core value for Will, influencing his business decisions.Spirituality helps Will navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.Will's journey into e-commerce began with Google ads and SEO.Many brands misunderstand the role of Amazon in their sales strategy.Proper pricing is crucial for success on Amazon.Smaller brands can adapt quickly compared to larger corporations.Walmart presents unique opportunities for brands looking to expand.Effective communication and organization are key to agency success.Ongoing optimization tools are essential for maintaining competitive advantage.The e-commerce landscape is rapidly evolving with new technologies.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Will Haire and Bellavix02:48 The Importance of Family and Spirituality in Business05:43 Will's Journey into Amazon and E-commerce08:49 Misconceptions About Selling on Amazon11:35 Fundamentals for Starting on Amazon14:32 Tools for Ongoing Optimization17:01 Managing Promotions and Pricing Strategies19:58 Working with Big Brands vs. Smaller Brands22:43 Walmart vs. Amazon: Opportunities and Challenges25:39 Surprises in Running Bellavix28:29 Future Opportunities in E-commerce