entrepreneurship

Shaheen Samavati

Multilingual Content Creation Adapts to the Age of AI with Shaheen Samavati

Host Brent Peterson sits down with Shaheen Samavati, co-founder and CEO of Vera Content. The conversation explores how content creation agencies navigate the challenges brought by AI tools while maintaining quality standards for multilingual content. Shaheen shares insights from her decade-long journey building a content agency that serves brands across European markets and beyond. They discuss everything from the impact of ChatGPT on the content industry to the nuances of adapting content for different Spanish-speaking markets. This episode offers valuable perspectives for anyone wondering how human creativity and AI capabilities can coexist in content marketing.

Key Takeaways

  • Content creation agencies must integrate AI tools while maintaining quality standards that exceed what automated systems can produce alone
  • Clients now expect faster turnaround times and lower costs, but still demand premium results that require human expertise
  • Words have become cheaper due to AI, yet the demand for high-quality, curated content continues to grow
  • Proper onboarding and style guide development remain critical for successful long-term content partnerships
  • Localization goes beyond translation—it requires understanding cultural nuances and regional dialects to connect with audiences effectively
  • The volume of content being created has exploded, creating greater need for human curation and quality control
  • Optimizing content for large language models shares similarities with traditional SEO but requires specific adaptations
  • Video content creation and influencer partnerships have grown as alternatives to traditional written content

About Shaheen Samavati

Shaheen comes from a background in print journalism, having worked in newspapers before relocating to Spain for an MBA program. Her career evolved through corporate communication and marketing roles at European companies, where she identified a significant gap in the market for multilingual content services. Originally from the Cleveland, Ohio area, she noticed how European businesses struggled to manage content across multiple markets effectively.

Ten years ago, Shaheen launched Vera Content to address this challenge. The agency specializes in helping brands create and manage large-scale multilingual content projects, including blogs and social media content for audiences across Europe and beyond. She participated in the Entrepreneurs’ Organization Accelerator program in Barcelona, which proved instrumental in scaling her business. Shaheen’s passion for learning and sharing knowledge drives everything she does, from building her agency to creating free resources for marketers navigating the changing content landscape.

Episode Summary

Shaheen explained that her agency works primarily with brands creating content for multiple European markets. “We help brands create and manage large-scale multilingual content creation projects for audiences across Europe and beyond, which basically means we work on blogs and social media pages for different markets,” she said. The agency’s core competency lies in managing local teams who serve as eyes and ears on the ground in each market.

The conversation quickly turned to the elephant in the room—ChatGPT and its impact on the content industry. Brent shared his own experience purchasing a content company that struggled after ChatGPT’s release, as many clients believed they could handle everything themselves. Shaheen acknowledged similar challenges but noted that Vera Content continues to grow by adapting their approach.

“We’re having to integrate a lot of these AI processes into our own processes,” Shaheen explained. “Some of the types of projects we did in the past, we’re seeing less of, but we’re seeing more of other types of projects.” The agency has diversified beyond blog content into social media management, user-generated content video creation, and influencer partnerships.

However, the expectations have shifted dramatically. “They want more than what AI has to offer, so we really have to go above and beyond to match their brand voice or offer thought leadership, because they are paying for that human content, but they also want it cheaper and faster,” Shaheen noted. This creates pressure on teams to deliver exceptional results while managing client expectations about what’s realistic.

Brent raised an important point about billing models, noting that words have become cheap in the AI era. Shaheen confirmed this reality affects their business. “The amount of time that’s expected to create an article now is less because of all the tools available,” she said. While Vera Content bills by the hour rather than by word count, they’re constantly compared against per-word pricing for certain project types.

The discussion explored how managing expectations has become more challenging. Brent shared his experience with Content Basis, where clients expected AI-generated content to be perfect on the first round without understanding the need for training and refinement. Shaheen emphasized that Vera Content only takes on long-term collaborations with proper onboarding phases.

“We do only work on long-term collaboration basis, and we have that onboarding phase that for us is really important,” she explained. At the beginning of every project, they build a style guide and create training resources for writers. “If the client’s not willing to wait a couple of weeks for us to get that all set up, then it’s probably not the right fit,” Shaheen stated firmly.

The conversation shifted to the complexities of managing international teams. Shaheen explained that their target clients typically have very high English proficiency since they’re managing content or marketing campaigns across multiple markets. Most client communication happens in English, though the agency’s Spanish base means everyone also speaks Spanish.

Brent drew parallels to his experience with development teams in Bolivia and other South American countries, where English proficiency varied. The discussion then explored fascinating nuances of Spanish localization across different markets. Shaheen addressed the common question about whether there’s truly a “generic Spanish” or “Latin Spanish.”

“There is nobody who really speaks like that,” she said. “It’s trying to create a neutral version where you’re not using any very specific local vocabulary, using a more neutral vocabulary that would be understood more universally.” However, this approach involves trade-offs. While neutral Spanish can work for broad audiences, it doesn’t create the emotional connection that truly localized content achieves. “The more localized it is, the more narrow you’re going and the more different versions you’ll have to make, and the more expensive that is,” Shaheen explained.

She gave the classic example of “coger un taxi,” which is perfectly normal in Spain but inappropriate in some Latin American countries. These linguistic landmines make local expertise invaluable. The need for localization depends heavily on the audience and context. Some B2B clients targeting international company employees can succeed with English-only content, while consumer brands selling products in local markets need fully localized messaging.

Brent brought up the evolution of search optimization, from voice search preparation for Alexa and Siri to current large language model optimization. Shaheen confirmed this remains a major focus area for Vera Content. “We’re staying on the cutting edge of that,” she said, noting they were preparing a webinar on the topic. While optimization for traditional SEO and LLMs doesn’t appear hugely different yet, there are specific considerations that can help content perform better in AI-powered search results.

The conversation touched on seasonal content patterns, with Brent asking about fourth-quarter demand around Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Shaheen noted that while seasonal content creation happens every year, the bigger trend is the overall explosion in content volume. “We’re seeing more content being created than ever before in the history of humanity,” she observed. “It’s so easy to create content now and everyone is.”

This led to an interesting observation about market corrections. Despite—or perhaps because of—the flood of AI-generated content, Shaheen has noticed renewed interest in print publications. “I think that shows the hunger there is for actually curated, well-organized content that has been vetted by someone because of all the crap that’s just being spewed out on the internet these days,” she said.

Brent emphasized a critical point about differentiation. Content created purely through ChatGPT without human refinement becomes indistinguishable from what everyone else produces. “There’s no differentiator in your own brand if you’re just using a straight-up model and never having anybody edit it,” he noted. Shaheen agreed completely, adding that AI can speed up processes tremendously when used properly.

“You need to give it the source information,” she advised. “Don’t ask it to look for the source information for you, because what it will find is what everyone else is finding, and it’s going to create the same old generic stuff.” This insight captures the essential role humans play in the AI-assisted content creation process—providing unique perspectives, proprietary information, and editorial judgment that generic models cannot replicate.

Throughout the episode, both Shaheen and Brent demonstrated how content professionals must evolve rather than resist technological change. The agencies and companies that thrive will be those that integrate AI tools strategically while maintaining the human expertise that creates truly valuable content. Quality curation, brand voice consistency, cultural adaptation, and thought leadership remain firmly in the human domain, even as AI handles more of the heavy lifting in content production.

As the conversation wrapped up, Shaheen Samavati encouraged listeners to explore the free resources available on Vera Content’s website, including guides on LLM search optimization, global social media management best practices, and AI content creation strategies. Her pragmatic approach to navigating industry disruption offers a roadmap for other content professionals facing similar challenges in this transformative period.

Final Thoughts

The content creation industry stands at a crossroads where AI capabilities and human expertise must work together rather than compete. Shaheen’s experience demonstrates that while tools like ChatGPT have changed client expectations and pricing models, the demand for quality, localized, brand-aligned content remains strong. Success requires agencies to be strategic about AI integration while doubling down on the value only humans can provide—cultural understanding, brand voice mastery, editorial judgment, and original thought leadership. The companies creating generic AI content without human refinement will find themselves lost in the noise, while those investing in proper processes and human expertise will stand out in an increasingly crowded content landscape. As Shaheen’s journey shows, the future of content isn’t about choosing between human or artificial intelligence—it’s about orchestrating both to create something greater than either could achieve alone.

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Elias Stahl

3D Printing Technology Is Transforming the Future of Footwear Manufacturing

Talk Commerce continues to showcase innovative entrepreneurs who’re reshaping traditional industries through technology. In this compelling episode, host Brent Peterson sits down with Elias Stahl, founder and CEO of HILOS, to explore how 3D printing technology is revolutionizing footwear production. The conversation unveils a fascinating glimpse into sustainable manufacturing practices, local production methods, and the integration of creativity within supply chain operations. What emerges is a vision that challenges conventional shoe manufacturing while addressing environmental concerns and empowering designers worldwide.

Key Takeaways

• 3D printing technology reduces waste significantly in shoe manufacturing processes
• Local production models can bring manufacturing closer to consumers, reducing transportation costs
• Design creativity becomes an integral part of the supply chain rather than a separate function
• AI-powered generative design tools democratize access to production-grade footwear design
• HILOS’s Interplay™ software bridges concept to production without traditional CAD requirements
• The “Made in Old Town” initiative aims to revolutionize domestic manufacturing in Portland
• Sustainable manufacturing practices don’t compromise product quality or innovation
• Technology empowers individual designers to compete with large-scale manufacturers
• Customization capabilities through 3D printing create new market opportunities

About Elias Stahl

Elias represents a new generation of entrepreneurs who combine technological innovation with environmental consciousness. As the founder and CEO of HILOS, he’s pioneering revolutionary approaches to footwear manufacturing that challenge industry norms. His background spans technology development, sustainable business practices, and manufacturing optimization. Elias brings unique insights into how emerging technologies can transform traditional industries while creating positive environmental impact. His work focuses on integrating advanced manufacturing techniques with creative design processes, establishing new paradigms for local production models. Through HILOS and the ambitious “Made in Old Town” project, Elias Stahl demonstrates how innovation can address both market needs and sustainability concerns simultaneously.

Episode Summary

The conversation begins with Brent establishing the exciting nature of this particular episode, noting his shared interest with co-host Isaac Morey in running, making the footwear innovation topic particularly relevant. This personal connection sets the stage for an engaging discussion about technological advancement in an industry that directly impacts active lifestyles.

Elias introduces HILOS as more than just another footwear company, positioning it as a transformative force in manufacturing methodology. “We’re not just making shoes differently; we’re reimagining how creativity fits into the entire production process,” he explains. This statement encapsulates the broader vision driving the company’s mission and reflects the fundamental shift happening across ecommerce.

The discussion explores how traditional ecommerce models are being disrupted. “All ecommerce is built on the old industrial world of making something in advance and then getting people to buy it,” Elias observes. “The internet is changing the way we buy things and make things. Barriers to entry drastically lower as this evolves.” This transformation creates massive opportunities for aggregators and cultural tastemakers, particularly when combined with AI capabilities, while traditional players risk losing market position by ignoring these industry shifts.

AI emerges as a central theme throughout the conversation, particularly its impact on ecommerce and manufacturing. When discussing AI’s transformation of online retail, Elias emphasizes practical applications that businesses should consider adopting. “AI is making it much easier for footwear designers to access production-grade design tools without investing millions in R&D,” he explains. Generative tools enable designers to experiment with structure, fit, and materials before committing to physical production, dramatically reducing development costs and time-to-market.

The conversation moves into HILOS’s upcoming product launch. This fall, the company plans to introduce Interplay™ software to enterprise teams. This cloud-based generative design and production platform specifically targets footwear development, enabling brands and designers to transition from concept to production-ready 3D-printable files without traditional CAD software requirements. The platform bridges sketches, moodboards, or text inputs directly into manufacturing workflows, streamlining the entire design process.

Interplay™ represents a significant advancement in design democratization. Teams can leverage custom data training to tailor AI models to their brand specifications, optimizing design consistency and performance across product lines. This capability addresses one of the industry’s biggest challenges: maintaining brand identity while scaling production and design capabilities.

The discussion shifts to future ecommerce trends and business preparation strategies. Elias predicts that supply chain complications and tariff challenges will drive more companies to consider domestic production as a profitable alternative. This shift isn’t just about cost management; it’s about building resilient, responsive supply chains that can adapt to changing market conditions.

Here, Elias introduces the groundbreaking Made in Old Town initiative, which represents perhaps the most ambitious aspect of HILOS’s vision. This project aims to create a district-scale hub for footwear and apparel design and manufacturing in Portland, Oregon. By building a vertically integrated ecosystem of suppliers, brands, and independent talent, the initiative seeks to reshape domestic manufacturing while driving local economic development and innovation.

The Made in Old Town project benefits from industry expertise drawn from companies like NIKE, KEEN, Under Armour, and Adidas. This leadership brings credibility and practical knowledge essential for executing such an ambitious undertaking. The Portland metro area already hosts 300+ footwear and apparel brands, and Oregon accounts for 90% of domestic footwear manufacturing exports, creating a strong foundation for expansion.

Currently, only one brand in Oregon—Nike—has in-house rapid sampling capabilities. Made in Old Town aims to change this dynamic by providing shared infrastructure and resources that enable smaller brands and independent designers to access similar capabilities without massive capital investments.

Local manufacturing emerges as another central theme throughout the conversation. Rather than relying on distant factories with complex supply chains, HILOS envisions production facilities closer to end markets. This proximity reduces transportation costs, minimizes delivery times, and allows for greater responsiveness to local preferences and trends. “When production happens locally, we can respond to market changes much faster than traditional models allow,” Elias notes.

The empowerment of designers through technology becomes a fascinating aspect of the conversation. Traditional footwear design often requires significant capital investment and manufacturing partnerships that favor established players. However, 3D printing technology democratizes the design-to-production process, allowing individual creators to bring concepts to market without extensive infrastructure requirements.

Sustainability considerations weave throughout the discussion, with Elias emphasizing that environmental responsibility isn’t separate from business success. The reduced material waste, lower transportation requirements, and more efficient production processes create a business model that performs well financially while addressing environmental concerns. This alignment becomes increasingly important as consumers prioritize sustainable options and regulatory frameworks evolve.

The conversation explores challenges facing the implementation of these innovative approaches. Scaling 3D printing technology for mass production presents technical hurdles, while consumer acceptance of new manufacturing methods requires education and demonstration of quality standards. However, these challenges represent opportunities for continued innovation rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Future possibilities discussed include mass customization capabilities, where consumers can specify design preferences and receive products tailored to their individual needs. This level of personalization was previously impossible at scale but becomes feasible through advanced manufacturing technologies combined with AI-driven design tools.

When discussing long-term growth strategies for ecommerce businesses, Elias emphasizes the importance of understanding technological convergence and consumer behavior shifts. Companies that recognize these trends early can position themselves advantageously, while those that ignore changes risk obsolescence. The key lies in balancing innovation adoption with practical business considerations.

The discussion reveals how technology convergence creates opportunities for reimagining entire industries. By combining 3D printing, digital design tools, AI capabilities, and local production models, HILOS represents a case study in how multiple innovations can work together to transform traditional business approaches.

Final Thoughts

This episode illuminates how technological innovation can address multiple challenges simultaneously, creating business models that benefit consumers, designers, and the environment. Elias Stahl’s vision for HILOS and the Made in Old Town initiative demonstrates that sustainable practices and business success aren’t mutually exclusive but can reinforce each other when approached strategically. The conversation reveals how 3D printing technology extends beyond manufacturing efficiency to enable new forms of creativity and market participation.

The transformation happening in footwear manufacturing reflects broader trends affecting many industries. As technology continues advancing, traditional boundaries between design, production, and distribution continue blurring. Companies that understand these shifts and adapt accordingly will thrive, while those clinging to outdated models risk losing relevance. The question isn’t whether these changes will continue, but how quickly established players will adapt to new realities. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect is watching how innovation can quite literally reshape the very foundation we stand on.

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Jacqueline Basulto

SeedX CEO Jacqueline Basulto Transformed Growth Marketing Through Human-Centered AI Integration

Welcome to another episode of Talk Commerce, where host Brent Peterson sits down with industry leaders to explore the evolution of digital commerce. In this conversation, we meet Jacqueline Basulto, founder and CEO of SeedX, a growth marketing company that’s been making waves since 2016. Now leading a team of 65 professionals, Jacqueline shares her journey from a young freelancer working with yoga teachers to building a comprehensive growth marketing powerhouse that helps companies scale their systems through end-to-end digital solutions.

Key Takeaways

  • Holistic marketing beats vertical specialization – Companies need integrated growth systems rather than isolated channel-specific strategies
  • Financial alignment drives success – Understanding how marketing activities tie back to company financials and profitability metrics is crucial
  • The three-pillar foundation – Successful e-commerce marketing starts with website optimization, paid advertising, and email marketing
  • AI enhances rather than replaces humans – Technology should eliminate mundane tasks while preserving human strategic thinking and creativity
  • European markets show different tech adoption patterns – Cultural differences impact how businesses integrate technology and customer expectations
  • Defining success requires team alignment – Marketing directors and CEOs must agree on success metrics before launching campaigns
  • Organic social media presents diminishing returns – Paid channels offer more reliable and formulaic growth opportunities for new businesses

About Jacqueline Basulto

Jacqueline Basulto founded SeedX at just 22 years old, starting her entrepreneurial journey during an internship at Google where she worked with small businesses on marketing strategy. Frustrated by the verticalized approach of traditional agencies, she launched what began as “Jacqueline’s Web Studio” in New York City, bootstrapping her way from working with local yoga teachers to serving larger enterprises. Her passion extends beyond business – she’s a singer who loves animals, owns three dogs, and dreams of having a farm someday. As a mother of a three-year-old, she balances entrepreneurship with family life while maintaining an active lifestyle. Her approach to business reflects her belief that entrepreneurship found her rather than the other way around, leading to a company philosophy centered on comprehensive, human-centered growth strategies.

Summary

The conversation begins with Jacqueline explaining how SeedX got its name – “seed” representing the beginning of growth, like a plant, and “X” standing for technology. She emphasizes that while the company has evolved significantly since its inception, the core philosophy remains unchanged: providing holistic marketing solutions rather than siloed services.

“I was frustrated really by the way that other agencies and that Google was helping them because it was very verticalized,” Jacqueline explains. This frustration led to her decision to start her own company, though she admits she didn’t initially understand what entrepreneurship meant or that she was bootstrapping her business.

Brent probes into the biggest mistakes medium-sized companies make with their marketing efforts. Jacqueline’s response reveals a critical gap in most businesses: the lack of clarity around how marketing activities connect to financial outcomes. She notes that many companies look at results across different platforms without understanding how these costs relate to revenue, cost of goods, and overall profitability.

The discussion shifts to e-commerce specifically, where Jacqueline outlines her three-pillar approach for new companies. First, the website must serve as both storefront and salesperson, educating customers about products. She uses the example of a Manuka honey company, explaining how their initial website failed to communicate the product’s unique benefits, pricing rationale, and usage applications.

“Your website is your storefront and it’s your salesperson,” she states. “What you want is to make sure that people are educated about the great products that you have.”

The second pillar involves paid advertising for quick conversions and message testing, while the third focuses on email marketing to capture and nurture the 90% of visitors who don’t purchase immediately. Jacqueline warns against over-investing in organic social media, noting the platform’s increasing difficulty for growth.

The conversation takes an interesting turn when discussing AI’s role in marketing. Rather than viewing AI as a threat to human employment, Jacqueline positions it as a powerful support tool that eliminates mundane tasks while preserving human creativity and strategic thinking.

When Brent asks about cultural differences between European and American business practices, Jacqueline provides insight into varying technology adoption rates and customer expectations across regions. She observes that European markets tend to prioritize human-centric approaches over technology-first solutions, leading to different expectations around brand interactions and digital touchpoints.

The episode concludes with Jacqueline introducing SeedX’s upcoming product – a centralized platform that helps marketers automate task flows by connecting email, calendar, CRM, and analytics systems through a single AI agent.

Memorable Quotes

“I always joke that entrepreneurship kind of found me. I didn’t know that I wanted to be an entrepreneur.” This quote encapsulates Jacqueline’s organic entry into the business world, highlighting how sometimes the best ventures emerge from solving immediate problems rather than following predetermined plans.

“The human input of the overall strategy and how all of the pieces go together is more important than ever than the very specific kind of tweaking of an ad.” This statement addresses the evolving role of marketing professionals in an AI-driven world, emphasizing strategic thinking over tactical execution.

“We want AI to take away all of those mundane tasks that we don’t want to spend all of our time doing or that suck the creativity out of us.” Jacqueline’s perspective on AI integration reflects a balanced approach that leverages technology while preserving human value.

Final Thoughts

Jacqueline Basulto’s journey from frustrated Google intern to successful agency founder demonstrates how identifying market gaps can lead to sustainable business solutions. Her emphasis on holistic marketing strategies, financial alignment, and human-centered AI integration provides valuable guidance for businesses navigating today’s complex digital landscape. The conversation reveals that while technology continues advancing, the need for strategic thinking and comprehensive approaches becomes more critical than ever. Perhaps the most important lesson from this episode is understanding that successful growth marketing isn’t about choosing between human expertise and technological efficiency – it’s about finding the right balance to seed sustainable business growth.

Listen to more conversations about Marketing Strategy here

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Hamish McKay

Hamish McKay Transforms E-commerce Customer Service Through Revolutionary Order Editing Platform

In this episode of Talk Commerce, host Brent Peterson sits down with Hamish McKay, the 24-year-old CEO and co-founder of Order Editing. What started as an internship at a merchandising studio has transformed into a thriving software startup that’s revolutionizing how e-commerce brands handle post-purchase customer requests. This episode dives deep into McKay’s entrepreneurial journey, exploring how he identified a massive pain point in the e-commerce industry and built a solution that’s now serving some of Shopify’s biggest merchants.

Key Takeaways

  • Problem identification through experience: Working in customer service revealed that 1.5% of customers need to make changes to their orders post-purchase, generating thousands of support tickets monthly
  • Rapid international expansion strategy: Moving from New Zealand to the US market tripled business growth within months
  • Timing matters in entrepreneurship: Launching during peak e-commerce growth periods can accelerate business success significantly
  • Customer service automation benefits: Merchants report ticket reductions from 2,000 to 14 monthly inquiries after implementation
  • Returns reduction impact: The software potentially reduces global e-commerce returns by 5-10% when implemented broadly
  • Post-purchase upselling opportunities: Merchants generate additional revenue through strategic post-order product additions
  • Grace period optimization: Most successful implementations use just 15-30 minute editing windows rather than longer timeframes

About Hamish McKay

Hamish McKay represents the new generation of digital entrepreneurs who’ve built successful businesses by solving real-world problems they’ve experienced firsthand. Starting his career as a university intern at a merchandising studio that worked with major YouTubers including MrBeast, McKay quickly advanced to managing customer service operations. This hands-on experience provided him with invaluable insights into e-commerce pain points that traditional business leaders might overlook.

Currently based in Mexico City but originally from New Zealand, McKay leads a globally distributed team of seven professionals. His approach combines youthful energy with strategic thinking, evidenced by his company’s rapid growth from launch to serving 30 brands generating over $100 million annually. Beyond his business success, McKay maintains a long-term vision of eventually transitioning into academia to inspire future entrepreneurs. His LinkedIn presence serves as a real-time case study for young professionals interested in startup development and scaling strategies.

Summary

McKay’s entrepreneurial journey began during his final year of university when he secured an internship at a merchandising studio creating Shopify storefronts for popular YouTubers. What started as shadowing the CEO evolved into managing customer service operations, where he discovered a recurring pattern: approximately 2,000 monthly customer inquiries requesting order modifications.

These requests weren’t complex – customers wanted to change addresses, apply discount codes, cancel orders, or swap products. However, each required manual customer service intervention, creating bottlenecks and delays. McKay recognized this as a significant market opportunity, particularly given the lack of existing solutions in the Shopify ecosystem.

The development process wasn’t rushed. McKay and his co-founder spent months building their software while maintaining other employment. The casual approach proved beneficial, allowing them to refine their product without financial pressure. They launched on the Shopify App Store in December 2023, at which point McKay committed fully by leaving his sales position at another startup.

Growth initially proceeded steadily rather than explosively. By June 2024, the company reached $15,000 monthly recurring revenue – substantial for a young entrepreneur in New Zealand but modest by global standards. A pivotal conversation with mentor Adam challenged McKay’s geographic limitations. When McKay expressed desire to secure three major Australian clients before expanding, Adam suggested booking a flight to the US for July 21st and ensuring those logos were secured by departure.

This aggressive timeline worked. McKay secured two major Australian clients and made the transatlantic journey. The US market expansion proved transformative, tripling business size within months and attracting clients from Britain, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands. The rapid international growth brought both opportunities and challenges, including founder burnout and the complexities of managing a distributed team.

“If every single online checkout in the world had this software, how much do you think online returns would drop?” – This strategic thinking demonstrates McKay’s evolution from solving immediate problems to considering broader industry impact.

Final Thoughts

McKay’s journey from university intern to successful startup founder illustrates how identifying and solving real problems can create substantial business opportunities. His emphasis on customer service optimization, international expansion strategies, and product iteration provides a roadmap for entrepreneurs in the e-commerce space.

The broader implications of order editing technology extend beyond individual business success to industry-wide improvements in customer experience and environmental impact through reduced returns. As e-commerce continues growing globally, solutions addressing post-purchase friction become increasingly valuable.

For entrepreneurs seeking inspiration and practical guidance, McKay’s story demonstrates that age and experience, while valuable, aren’t prerequisites for business success. What matters more is problem identification, solution development, and the courage to pursue opportunities when they arise. How will you edit your approach to entrepreneurship?

Listen to more conversations about the latest innovations in Ecommerce.

Hikari Senju

AI Marketing Revolution Transforms Digital Advertising Through Omneky Platform

In a recent Talk Commerce podcast episode, host Brent Peterson welcomed Hikari Senju, founder and CEO of Omneky, to discuss the transformative impact of AI in digital advertising. The conversation centered on Omneky’s innovative approach to utilizing artificial intelligence for creating and optimizing advertising campaigns across multiple platforms, including Google, Meta, TikTok, Pinterest, and Amazon.

Key Takeaways

  • AI-powered platforms are revolutionizing digital advertising campaign management
  • Cross-platform advertising optimization is becoming automated and more efficient
  • Budget allocation and content adjustments are now data-driven through AI
  • Agentic AI represents the next frontier in marketing automation
  • Multi-platform campaign management is streamlined through artificial intelligence

About Hikari Senju

Hikari Senju stands at the forefront of AI-driven marketing innovation as the founder and CEO of Omneky. With a strong background in technology and entrepreneurship, Senju has led the development of Omneky’s AI-powered advertising platform, which transforms how businesses approach digital marketing. His vision for integrating artificial intelligence into advertising has positioned Omneky as a pioneer in the marketing technology sector.

Detailed Episode Summary

The discussion opened with an exploration of how Omneky’s platform leverages AI to help businesses connect with new customers through targeted advertising. Senju explained the platform’s capability to automatically adjust marketing budgets and content based on performance metrics across various digital channels.

The conversation highlighted the significance of agentic AI in modern marketing strategies. This advanced form of artificial intelligence demonstrates autonomous decision-making capabilities, allowing for more sophisticated and responsive advertising campaigns.

Senju emphasized the platform’s ability to analyze data across multiple advertising channels simultaneously, providing businesses with comprehensive insights and automated optimization strategies. This multi-channel approach ensures that advertising efforts are coordinated and effective across all platforms.

Personal Commentary and Analysis

The integration of AI in marketing represents a significant shift in how businesses approach advertising. The ability to automatically optimize campaigns across multiple platforms addresses a long-standing challenge in digital marketing: maintaining consistency while maximizing performance across different channels.

The emergence of agentic AI, as discussed in the episode, suggests that we’re entering a new era of marketing automation. This technology promises to reduce human intervention while improving campaign performance through data-driven decision-making.

Memorable Quotes

“AI really plays heavily into this whole conversation” – Brent Peterson

This statement underscores the central role of artificial intelligence in modern marketing strategies and its growing importance in business operations.

Engaging the Audience

Listeners interested in AI’s role in marketing transformation can learn more by visiting Omneky’s platform. The full episode provides valuable insights for marketers, business owners, and technology enthusiasts looking to understand the future of digital advertising.

Final Thoughts

The conversation between Brent Peterson and Hikari Senju illuminates the revolutionary potential of AI in digital marketing. As businesses continue to navigate the complex landscape of multi-platform advertising, AI-powered solutions like Omneky are becoming increasingly essential tools for success.

Listen to more conversations about the latest in digital marketing here.

Adam Callinan

Business Profitability Through Mathematical Systems with Adam Callinan

In this illuminating episode of Talk Commerce, host Brent Peterson engages with Adam Callinan, the innovative mind behind Bottlekeeper and Pentane. The conversation unveils a fascinating journey from a beach-inspired product invention to developing sophisticated business analytics software, demonstrating how lean operations and mathematical precision can drive entrepreneurial success.

Key Takeaways

  • Building a successful business with minimal staff is achievable through strategic automation
  • Authentic human connection remains crucial in an AI-dominated landscape
  • Mathematical precision outperforms AI in critical business calculations
  • Profitability fundamentally remains a math problem, regardless of business complexity
  • Strategic planning and cash flow projections are essential for sustainable growth

About Adam Callinan

Adam Callinan stands as a testament to innovative entrepreneurship, having successfully built and sold Bottlekeeper, a consumer product company that reached multi-million dollar revenue with just four team members. His current venture, Pentane, leverages his experience in lean operations and mathematical optimization to help businesses achieve profitability. Adam’s approach combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of operational efficiency, all while maintaining his primary passion – family life.

Detailed Episode Summary

The conversation begins with Adam’s journey creating Bottlekeeper, a product conceived during a casual beach day in 2012. The company’s remarkable growth to $8 million in revenue within three years, operating with no employees or investors, showcases his lean business philosophy. This success story eventually led to a Shark Tank appearance and acquisition by a private equity group in 2021.

Adam transitions to discussing Pentane, his current venture that systematizes the mathematical approach that made Bottlekeeper successful. The platform connects with various business tools like QuickBooks, Shopify, and advertising platforms to provide precise guidance on profitability and growth decisions.

Regarding AI integration, Adam maintains a cautious approach, emphasizing the current limitations of AI in complex mathematical calculations. He argues that traditional algebraic and calculus-based solutions still provide more reliable results for critical business decisions than current AI capabilities.

Personal Commentary and Analysis

The episode highlights a crucial intersection between traditional business acumen and modern technology. Adam’s perspective on maintaining human authenticity while leveraging automation presents a balanced approach to contemporary business challenges. His emphasis on mathematical precision over AI-driven solutions, particularly for critical financial decisions, offers valuable insights for businesses navigating the current technological landscape.

Memorable Quotes

“Profitability is a math problem. Like it really is just that simple.” – Adam Callinan
“Companies fail when people quit.” – Adam Callinan
“Real human and authentic is going to become a lot more important in the very near future than it has historically been.” – Adam Callinan

Engaging the Audience

To learn more about Adam’s innovative approaches to business optimization and lean operations, listeners can explore Pentane at pentane.com. Additionally, Adam hosts the Growth Mavericks podcast, focusing on building mental and physical resilience in entrepreneurship.

Final Thoughts

The intersection of mathematical precision and modern business operations demonstrates how entrepreneurs can leverage technology while maintaining authentic human connections. As businesses navigate increasing complexity, tools like Pentane offer a framework for making data-driven decisions while staying true to fundamental business principles.

Listen to more conversations about business analytics here

Katrena Friel

Katrena Friel Reveals Business Transformation Roadmap on Talk Commerce

In this episode of Talk Commerce, host Brent Peterson connects with Katrena Friel, a Sydney-based business expert who has spent 25 years helping entrepreneurs transform their career aspirations into thriving businesses. The conversation unveils valuable insights about personal branding, business development, and a roadmap for entrepreneurial transformation.

Key Takeaways

  • Business success requires basic to intermediate computer skills in today’s digital landscape
  • The ideal time to start a business is while maintaining current employment
  • Personal branding can generate seven streams of income within 90 days
  • COVID-19 catalyzed business innovation and entrepreneurial creativity
  • Technology platforms should prioritize ease of use and comprehensive functionality

About Katrena Friel

With 25 years of experience, Katrena Friel leads Becoming the Expert, a comprehensive business development service that transforms entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Her approach combines strategic planning, technical implementation, and ongoing coaching support. Based in Sydney, Australia, she specializes in helping professionals, particularly those over 40, transition from traditional employment to successful business ownership.

Detailed Episode Summary

The conversation begins with Katrena sharing her journey of developing a refined business development process. She explains how her service evolved from group coaching to a hands-on “done-for-you” approach after recognizing that many aspiring entrepreneurs needed more practical support.

Katrena’s ideal clients typically possess solid computer skills and are often professionals seeking fulfillment beyond traditional employment. She emphasizes working with entrepreneurs before they’ve invested significant time and resources in potentially misguided directions.

The discussion explores how economic challenges can present unexpected opportunities. Katrena notes that during COVID-19, her business experienced unprecedented growth as people reassessed their career paths and prioritized personal fulfillment.

Personal Commentary and Analysis

Katrena’s approach reflects a deep understanding of the modern entrepreneurial landscape. Her emphasis on maintaining employment while building a business demonstrates practical wisdom, allowing entrepreneurs to validate their business models before making major career changes.

The focus on technical competency highlights an often-overlooked aspect of modern entrepreneurship. While many business coaches focus solely on strategy, Katrena’s recognition of the importance of technical skills shows her practical, results-oriented approach.

Memorable Quotes

“Through adversity comes creativity and innovation.” – Katrena Friel

“My belief is that you step into the beginning of your peak at 40.” – Katrena Friel

“You can have just a whole business that is your personal brand that you can have seven streams of income attached to.” – Katrena Friel

Engaging the Audience

To learn more about transforming your business ideas into reality, visit becomingtheexpert.com.au for a free discovery session with Katrena. This opportunity allows potential clients to explore their business dreams with an experienced guide who understands both the strategic and technical aspects of modern entrepreneurship.

Final Thoughts

This episode underscores the importance of combining technical competency with strategic vision in modern entrepreneurship. Katrena’s practical approach to business development offers a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to transform their career trajectories.

Listen to more conversations with entrepreneurs here

Connect with Katrena on your favorite platform:

Website www.becomingtheexpert.com.au

Free Discovery Session FREE DISCOVERY SESSION | Becoming the Expert

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrenafriel

Instagram (@katrenafriel)

FB Katrena Friel

Anya Cheng

The AI Fashion Revolution Transforming Men’s Style Through Smart Subscription Services

In my latest Talk Commerce episode I had the pleasure of hosting Anya Cheng, Founder and CEO of Taelor, a leading men’s clothing subscription service that provides personal styling and curated rentals. As a Girls in Tech 40 Under 40 honoree with an impressive track record leading eCommerce teams at Meta, eBay, Target, and McDonald’s, Anya shared fascinating insights into how AI is revolutionizing personal styling and sustainable fashion consumption

Key Takeaways

From my conversation with Anya, I identified several key insights:

  • The seamless blend of AI-powered styling with human expertise
  • A sustainable fashion model that’s reducing clothing waste
  • Sophisticated data-driven personalization through customer feedback
  • An innovative rental-first approach to men’s fashion
  • Professional styling integration with advanced technology
  • Access to an impressive network of 300+ brands
  • Affordable monthly subscriptions starting at $79-$109 for 5-10 items

About Anya Cheng

I was particularly impressed by Anya’s 15-year journey through big tech before launching Taelor. Her experience leading Facebook’s Instagram shopping initiative, heading product development at eBay for emerging markets, and directing McDonald’s global delivery eCommerce expansion has clearly informed her approach to revolutionizing men’s fashion through AI-powered solutions.

Detailed Episode Summary

What struck me most during our conversation was Anya’s clear vision for solving common fashion challenges. She explained how Taelor’s AI selects clothing based on detailed customer information, considering everything from fit preferences to specific occasions.

I found it enlightening when Anya shared that “most people only wear 20% of what they buy,” which perfectly illustrates the problem Taelor aims to solve.

During our discussion, we explored their AI system’s technical aspects, examining how it processes multiple data points from customer preferences to garment performance and future fashion trends.

Personal Commentary and Analysis

In my view, what makes Taelor’s approach particularly compelling is their successful integration of AI with human expertise. Through my years of hosting Talk Commerce, I’ve seen many attempts to revolutionize retail, but Taelor’s model stands out for addressing multiple pain points while promoting sustainability.

Memorable Quotes

I want to highlight some of Anya’s most impactful statements:
“Think about what unique data you have that no one else does. That is going to become your goal in the next 20 years.”
“Most fashion companies have been designing for people who are into fashion… but many people need to look good without being into fashion.”
“Each garment, while still very new, should be shared rather than sitting unused in closets.”

Engaging the Audience

I encourage you to experience Taelor’s innovative service firsthand. Visit taelor.style and use code ‘podcast’ for 25% off your first month. As someone who’s seen countless retail innovations, I believe this is one worth exploring.

Final Thoughts

As I reflected on my conversation with Anya, it became clear that Taelor’s approach represents the future of men’s fashion – a perfect blend of technology and human expertise that makes style both accessible and sustainable.

Listen to more conversations about the latest in digital innovation in eCommerce here

Experience effortless style with rental and personal styling services:

Taelor: Get 25% OFF your first month of men’s clothing subscription.
Use code: PODCAST25
Sign up at: https://taelor.style/pages/membership

Armoire: Get 50% OFF your first month of women’s clothing subscription.
Use code: ArmoirexTaelor
Sign up at: https://www.armoire.style/refer/ArmoirexTaelor

Give the gift of time, convenience, and effortless style:

Taelor Gift Cards: Get 10% OFF Use code: PODCASTGIFT
Purchase at: https://taelor.style/products/menswear-rental-gift-card Bio for Podcast

Links:

Taelor: https://taelor.style/pages/membership

Taelor Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/taelor.style/

Anya FB: https://www.facebook.com/AnyaChengSiliconValley

Anya IG: https://www.instagram.com/anyacheng_siliconvalley

Caleb Olson

From Dog Poop Detection to Aerial Innovation: How Caleb Olson’s Poop Copter Took Flight

The Future of Pet Waste Management

Who knew the future of picking up dog poop would involve drones? In this entertaining episode of the Talk Commerce podcast, host Brent Peterson chats with Caleb Olson, a software engineer who decided that if dogs must poop, robots should scoop. Olson’s creation, aptly named the “Poopcopter,” is what happens when a tech genius gets tired of the daily “treasure hunt” in their backyard.

Key Takeaways

  • Started with a security camera playing “spot the squat” with dogs
  • Evolved into a full-fledged aerial poop patrol using AI
  • Built with parts that won’t break the bank (unless your drone does)
  • Solves the universal question: “Who’s picking up the poop today?”
  • Comes with the added entertainment of watching your neighbors’ reactions

About Caleb Olson

Meet Caleb Olson, a software engineer from Lino Lakes, Minnesota, who’s taking “working from home” to new heights. Armed with a master’s degree in computer science and a specialization in machine learning, Caleb could have been developing the next social media platform. Instead, he chose to tackle the one problem every dog owner wishes would solve itself. By day, he’s your typical web developer; by night, he’s the mastermind behind what might be the world’s first autonomous aerial pooper scooper.

Detailed Episode Summary

The conversation kicks off with Caleb explaining his journey from simple poop detection (yes, that’s a thing) to full-on drone deployment. Picture this: a drone equipped with a Raspberry Pi (not the dessert kind) and custom-designed 3D-printed parts, hunting for “deposits” in your backyard. It’s like a very specific game of Pokemon Go, except what you’re catching isn’t quite as cute.

Caleb dives into the technical challenges, particularly in teaching a drone to land precisely on its target – a skill that requires more finesse than you might think. After all, nobody wants a drone doing the cha-cha while trying to collect its quarry.

The AI discussion gets particularly interesting when Caleb reveals he trained his model using 80-100 labeled images from his backyard. That’s right – someone had to photograph and catalog dog poop for science. Not all heroes wear capes; some wear rubber gloves.

Personal Commentary and Analysis

Let’s be honest: if you’d told someone 20 years ago that we’d be using flying robots to pick up dog poop, they’d have thought you were barking mad. Yet here we are, living in a world where AI can distinguish between a pine cone and a poop. What a time to be alive!

Memorable Quotes

“I’ve slowly become just the poop man. It’s just weird.” – Caleb Olson
(A sentence that probably wasn’t in his career guidance counselor’s prediction folder)

“Everyone does it. It’s such a common problem…” – Caleb Olson
(Talking about picking up after dogs, to be clear)

Engaging the Audience

Want to see a drone playing fetch with… well, you know what? Check out Caleb’s YouTube channel, where he documents his journey from regular software engineer to neighborhood conversation starter. Warning: Content may contain scenes of robotic excellence and occasional poop jokes.

Final Thoughts

In a world full of self-driving cars and smartphones that can translate languages, maybe a poop-scooping drone isn’t so far-fetched after all. The Poopcopter proves that sometimes the best innovations come from the most unexpected places – or in this case, the most obvious places you’d rather not think about.

Find more entrepreneurs’ stories here

Betty Lu

Transforming Food Waste into Delicious Snacks with Betty Liu

In this episode of Talk Commerce, host Brent Peterson sits down with Betty Lu, the innovative founder and CEO of Confetti Snacks. This conversation unveils the remarkable journey of a Singapore-born entrepreneur who’s transforming food waste into colorful, nutritious snacks while building a rapidly expanding global brand. From supplying Netflix offices to securing nationwide distribution in Walmart, Betty shares insights into her mission to revolutionize the snacking industry with sustainability at its core.

Key Takeaways

  • Confetti Snacks has expanded to 4,000 supermarkets across nine countries
  • The company upcycles B-grade produce that would otherwise be discarded
  • Their innovative drying technology maintains nutritional integrity while creating crunchy textures
  • The brand has secured partnerships with major retailers including Walmart, Albertsons, and Safeway
  • Disney collaboration launching in Q1 of next year featuring Mickey Mouse themed products
  • The company operates with a hyper-localized production model to minimize carbon footprint
  • Each bag contains six servings of fruits and vegetables

About Betty Lu

Betty Lu exemplifies the modern sustainable entrepreneur. After retiring at 27, she embarked on a transformative four-year journey across 56 countries, which sparked her vision for Confetti Snacks. Her business acumen, developed through formal education in Singapore, combined with her passion for culinary excellence and sustainability, led to the creation of a brand that’s now recognized in the Michelin Guide. Betty’s leadership has attracted attention from major industry players, including recognition as a finalist in Cartier’s Women’s Initiative.

Sustainable Snack Innovation from Confetti Snacks

The conversation begins with Betty sharing her origin story, explaining how Singapore’s rich culinary heritage influenced her perspective on food innovation. She describes her extensive world travels, which opened her eyes to two critical global issues: food waste and hunger. These observations became the foundation for Confetti Snacks’ mission to upcycle imperfect produce into delicious, nutritious snacks.

Betty details the company’s innovative approach to product development, working with James Beard award-winning chefs and food technologists to create authentic, culturally-inspired flavors. The technical process involves carefully controlled temperature management at 86 degrees Celsius to preserve nutrients while achieving the perfect crunch.

The discussion reveals impressive market penetration, with Confetti Snacks securing placement in major retailers like Walmart without requiring traditional test market phases. Betty emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong sales velocities and implementing strategic promotional activities during peak snacking seasons.

Balancing Profit with Purpose

The podcast reveals how Confetti Snacks represents a new generation of food companies that successfully balance profit with purpose. Betty Lu’s approach to business demonstrates that sustainability and scalability aren’t mutually exclusive. Her strategy of hyper-localized production and distribution, combined with innovative product development, creates a compelling blueprint for future food entrepreneurs.

Memorable Quotes

“Nearly one third of edible produce are thrown away every year simply because they are ugly or due to a crop surplus.” – Betty Lu

“If we can seduce them with taste first… they are going to tell their friends about it and their family about it and they’ll keep coming back the next 1,000 times.” – Betty Lu

“Whatever you can imagine, you can make real.” – Walt Disney

Engaging the Audience

Listeners can experience Confetti Snacks’ innovative products by visiting their local Walmart, Albertsons, or Safeway stores. The brand is also available on Amazon and confettisnacks.com, delivering to every ZIP code in the US, including Alaska and Hawaii. Watch for their upcoming Mickey Mouse collaboration and new product launches in airports nationwide.

Final Thoughts

The conversation with Betty Lu illuminates how innovation in the snack industry can address global challenges while creating profitable business opportunities. As Confetti Snacks continues to expand its reach, it’s clear that the future of sustainable snacking is colorful, flavorful, and waste-conscious.

Listen to more episodes about what’s happening in the food industry

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