From Pizza Kid to Entrepreneur: Caroline D’Amore’s Pink Journey

December 17, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

On a this episode of Talk Commerce, I had the pleasure of chatting with Caroline D’Amore, the dynamic founder of Pizza Girl. This isn’t just another food story; it’s a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit, brand building, and navigating the challenges of a male-dominated industry. Caroline’s journey, from overcoming family business hurdles to creating a nationally recognized brand, is both inspiring and insightful. In this post, we’ll feature the key takeaways from our conversation, highlighting Caroline’s unique strategies and her powerful message for aspiring entrepreneurs.

From “Pizza Kid” to Pizza Girl: Embracing Your Identity

Caroline’s story begins with a childhood spent assisting her father in their family’s pizza catering business. The memorable, and somewhat embarrassing, “Pizza Kid” shirts she wore as a child became a surprising springboard for her future. She initially tried to distance herself from this past, but eventually, she brilliantly recognized the inherent value of her experience. This realization was a turning point – it’s a lesson I found incredibly powerful. So many entrepreneurs are trying to reinvent the wheel, when the wheel they have is perfectly good, maybe just needs a little polish!

Identifying Market Gaps: The Sauce and Oven Story

Caroline didn’t just create another food brand; she identified and filled significant market gaps. Her dissatisfaction with the quality of commercially available pasta sauces led her to develop her own unique recipe – a testament to the importance of understanding and responding to consumer needs. This was followed by the equally brilliant development of her pizza ovens. Solving the problem of inaccessible, high-priced home pizza ovens was pure genius! It reminded me of how often innovation comes from identifying what’s missing rather than what already exists. This concept resonated deeply with me. I think many of us get bogged down in what everyone else is already doing.

Multi-Channel Magic: The Power of Direct-to-Consumer

Caroline’s success isn’t solely reliant on one distribution channel. She masterfully blends direct-to-consumer sales with strategic partnerships in high-end supermarkets and online retailers. This multi-channel approach is crucial for maximizing market reach, building brand loyalty, and ensuring stability. It’s a testament to the power of a diversified business strategy, a point I’ve emphasized repeatedly on the show, and one that Caroline effectively executes.

High-Quality, Clean Ingredients: Catering to a Healthier Market

Caroline’s dedication to using high-quality, clean ingredients strongly resonates with current consumer trends. Her commitment to using organic, ethically sourced products speaks volumes about her values, creating a strong brand identity. I found her concern about the differences in food standards between the U.S. and other countries particularly poignant, illustrating a growing consumer awareness and demand for transparency and higher quality ingredients.

Breaking Barriers: Women in Entrepreneurship

Caroline’s journey highlights the ongoing challenges for women in entrepreneurship. She shared stories of investor meetings where her gender and the name “Pizza Girl” were perceived as drawbacks. She cleverly turned those objections into strengths, making her brand even more distinctive. This underscores a powerful lesson about turning perceived disadvantages into unique selling points – a valuable takeaway for all entrepreneurs, especially women. I couldn’t agree more with her message about owning your identity and using it to propel your business forward.

Final Thoughts

Caroline D’Amore’s entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her success with Pizza Girl isn’t just about delicious pizza; it’s about identifying and solving problems, embracing a unique identity, and building a strong brand across multiple channels. Her unwavering commitment to quality and her bold approach to the market makes her a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. Listen to the full episode of Talk Commerce to hear more of Caroline’s incredible story and gain further insights into her business strategies. And don’t forget to check out Pizza Girl—her products are as delicious as her story is compelling!

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Follow Caroline and Pizza Girl: Instagram – @pizzagirl, @carolinedamore

Hack Your Way to Free Press Coverage: A Small Business Owner’s Guide with Gloria Chou

December 5, 2024December 3, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

Leverage organic PR to boost your brand visibility and SEO. Gloria Chou, a leading PR coach, shares her proven strategies for securing media features and building brand authority on this episode of Talk Commerce. Learn her CPR pitching method and how to find the right journalists to pitch your product.

Why Your USP Isn’t Working and How to Fix It with Chantal Cornelius

November 26, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

This week on Talk Commerce, I had the pleasure of chatting with the brilliant Chantal Cornelius, founder of Apple Tree Marketing. Chantal shared some game-changing insights on marketing strategies that truly resonate with customers. In this blog post, we’ll unpack her key takeaways, focusing on how to move beyond outdated USPs and create a marketing approach that makes your business truly stand out.

Why USPs Don’t Work (And What To Do Instead)

Chantal and I both agree: Unique Selling Propositions (USPs) are often ineffective. Why? Because most businesses end up saying the same thing! Chantal’s experience working with numerous coaches and consultants revealed a common pattern – everyone claims to be unique, but they’re actually offering very similar services.

My takeaway here is that focusing on what makes you different as an individual might be more effective than forcing a USP. Chantal highlighted that USPs are easier to create with tangible products, but when selling services, the focus shifts to customer emotion.

The Power of Standout Strategies

Instead of USPs, Chantal champions “standout strategies,” focusing on how your customers want to feel when working with you. This customer-centric approach involves identifying the emotions that matter most to your target audience (safety, amusement, etc.). Chantal’s five standout strategies offer a framework to achieve this, and the right strategy for your business depends on the needs and emotions of your ideal customer. This really resonated with me because it’s so different from the traditional “features and benefits” approach.

Measuring Marketing Success: It’s Not Just About Numbers

A crucial element Chantal emphasizes is measurement. Too many small businesses jump into marketing tactics without establishing a baseline or tracking their results. Chantal’s approach is refreshingly simple yet effective. She tracks her phone calls, noting the source of each new inquiry. This allows her to see what marketing strategies deliver the best results and double-down on her success. This practical, data-driven approach is something I’ll definitely be implementing.

The Art of Strategic Marketing: Don’t Just React, Plan!

Chantal stresses the importance of strategy over tactics. Before jumping into social media or other marketing activities, take a step back to define your goals, target audience, and the best way to reach them. This is essential when dealing with a marketing crisis. This strategic approach makes measuring your success easier and more meaningful. I found this to be exceptionally helpful; often we forget that before running any marketing campaign we should first plan and understand our target audience and goals!

Chantal shared her experiences with public speaking, highlighting the importance of providing value to the audience without being overtly salesy. She suggested that it’s less about actively selling and more about subtly influencing and establishing credibility. It’s a more passive approach that relies on building trust and expertise to draw in potential clients.

American vs. English Marketing: A Cultural Divide?

Chantal points out interesting cultural differences between American and British marketing approaches. Americans are generally more outgoing and direct, while Brits tend to be more reserved. This impacts how businesses approach networking and outreach. I found this comparison fascinating, and it reinforces that the “best” approach is always the one that fits your target market.

Chantal’s Advice for Small Business Owners: Start With Your Network

Chantal’s key advice for small business owners starting their marketing journey is simple: start by talking to people you already know. Use your existing network. Don’t rely solely on social media; pick up the phone, build relationships, and let your network know about your business. I personally think this is excellent advice and something many business owners can benefit from.

Chantal Cornelius’s insights on strategic marketing offer a breath of fresh air. Her focus on customer emotions, careful measurement, and a thoughtful approach to public speaking is a recipe for marketing success. To delve deeper into Chantal’s five standout strategies, take her free test at AppletreeUK.com! You can also listen to the full podcast episode for a more in-depth understanding.

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HeyBamboo Revolutionizes Retail with Eco-Luxe Bamboo Paper Products

November 26, 2024September 14, 2024 Susan Peterson

HeyBamboo, known for its premium bamboo toilet paper, expands into brick-and-mortar retail with sustainable, bleach-free paper products, setting new standards for eco-friendly consumer goods.

Value-Based Marketing with Wordsmith Extraordinaire: Kristin N. Spencer

November 25, 2024September 3, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

Hey there, podcast listeners and blog readers! In this episode of Talk Commerce, I had the pleasure of chatting with Kristen Spencer, a certified copywriter and wordsmith who’s challenging the status quo of traditional marketing. Kristen believes that digging deeper than surface-level customer avatars and embracing genuine curiosity can unlock powerful sales strategies. Join us as we explore why those old marketing worksheets might be doing more harm than good and how a value-driven approach can resonate with today’s savvy customers.

Talk Commerce with Kristen Spencer: Beyond Avatars – Selling with Curiosity and Value

The Problem with Avatars and Traditional Personas

Kristen argues that creating customer avatars based solely on demographics can be exclusionary and doesn’t resonate with younger generations who prioritize values and brand alignment. I found this particularly insightful, as I’ve noticed a shift in my own purchasing behavior where I’m drawn to brands that reflect my personal beliefs.

Kristen suggests that focusing on psychographics – a customer’s values, personality traits, and convictions – is far more effective. She’s developed a unique questionnaire to uncover these deeper insights, leading to stronger messaging that connects with the target audience on a more meaningful level.

Selling with Curiosity

Kristen emphasized the importance of curiosity in sales and marketing. By genuinely seeking to understand our customers’ needs and motivations, we can tailor our messaging and offers to resonate with them. This really struck a chord with me. In the age of ChatGPT, it’s easy to fall into the trap of relying on AI to generate generic content, but I believe that human connection and genuine curiosity are still essential for building trust and driving conversions.

The Power of Value-Based Marketing

Kristen’s approach centers around “touchstone principles” – core values that guide all marketing and sales decisions. By establishing these principles and ensuring that all messaging aligns with them, businesses can build consistency and trust with their audience. This is something I’m actively working on implementing in my own business, and I can already see the positive impact it’s having.

Embracing Change and Adaptability

We discussed the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI for marketing, and Kristen highlighted the importance of adaptability in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Businesses that are willing to embrace change, listen to their customers, and pivot their strategies accordingly are more likely to thrive in the long run.

Kristen’s Book and Resources

Kristen’s upcoming book, focused on the power of curiosity in sales, promises to be a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their marketing strategies. She also offers a fun “Alice in Wonderland” themed quiz that helps you understand your purchasing type. You can find the quiz at alisquiz.com.

My conversation with Kristen Spencer was a fantastic reminder that effective marketing goes beyond surface-level demographics. By embracing curiosity, focusing on customer values, and building strong touchstone principles, we can create messaging that truly resonates and drives results. I highly encourage you to listen to the full podcast episode to delve deeper into these insights and explore Kristen’s unique perspective on the future of marketing.

If you’re interested in learning more about Kristen’s work, connect with her on LinkedIn (Kristen N. Spencer) or visit her website, literarysymmetry.com.

Connect with Kristin

TWITTER @sincerely_kris

INSTAGRAM @literarysymmetry

NEWSLETTER OblitRe | A Destructive Yet Wildly Curious Business Newsletter – OblitRe

ALICE IN BUSINESSLAND QUIZ: https://alicequiz.com

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Mastering Content with AI: A Dive into Data-Driven Marketing with Kate Bradley-Chernis

November 25, 2024September 3, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

In this episode of Talk Commerce, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kate Bradley, the CEO of Lately.ai. We discussed the integration of machine learning into content creation and the nuances of automation, AI, and creativity. Dive into our conversation to learn about AI in marketing, the importance of human touch in content editing, and the future of collaborative AI.

Introduction to Lately’s AI-Powered Content

During our conversation, Kate Bradley shared fascinating insights about how Lately leverages neuroscience-driven AI to enhance marketing efforts on social media. Her passion for connecting with people online resonates deeply with Lately’s mission to generate precise messaging for optimal engagement. As someone intrigued by how technology reshapes messaging, I found Kate’s approach both innovative and refreshing.

The Essence of Human and AI Collaboration

Kate emphasized the importance of the human touch in content creation, even in an AI-assisted environment. She pointed out that while tools can automate and analyze data to generate content, it’s crucial for humans to ensure that the messaging resonates with the target audience. This collaborative AI approach, she noted, outperforms standalone AI, reflecting the need for humans to validate and enhance AI-generated content.

The Learning Journey of AI Algorithms

A standout element of our discussion was how Lately’s algorithm learns from its users. Unlike large language models like ChatGPT, Lately focuses on personalizing content creation by analyzing individual social media analytics. This continuous performance learning loop allows the AI to improve its output based on user feedback—a crucial aspect in achieving effective communication that resonates with the audience.

Deliverability in AI Content Strategies

One of the key challenges in modern content marketing is maintaining the right cadence of content delivery. Kate shared statistics highlighting the need for frequent and varied messaging to truly engage audiences. With Lately’s capabilities, users can seamlessly manage their social media content, ensuring it reaches the right audiences at the right time without overwhelming them.

The Human Element in AI-driven Communication

Throughout our conversation, we touched upon the balance between automation and human creativity. Kate reminded us that AI is still a tool—an aid for processing vast amounts of information quickly. However, it is not a replacement for the nuanced thinking and emotional connectivity humans bring to storytelling and marketing.

Chatting with Kate Bradley reignited my appreciation for the intersection of AI and human creativity. The insight that AI, when combined with human intervention, can transform social media marketing strategies was enlightening. I invite you to delve deeper into this topic by listening to the full episode. Explore how AI can complement your marketing efforts and how maintaining that human connection can lead to profound audience engagement.

If you’re curious about leveraging AI for your content strategy, check out Lately to see how it can revolutionize your social media approach. Let us know your thoughts on AI and creativity in the comments or by reaching out on social media.

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Albisa Candles Unveils “Flan”: A Sweet Scent of Heritage and Nostalgia

November 25, 2024August 27, 2024 susanmakolea

Albisa Candles is excited to announce its newest candle, Flan. Capturing the essence of a classic and popular dessert among Hispanic and Latin American cultures

Scents of Heritage: How Albisa Candles is Lighting Up E-commerce with Cuban Flair with Isabel Alvarez

November 25, 2024August 13, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

In this episode of Talk Commerce, I had the pleasure of chatting with Isabel Alvarez, the passionate founder behind Albisa Candles. Isabel isn’t just a candle maker—she’s a storyteller, preserving and sharing her Cuban heritage through the evocative scents she creates. If you’ve ever wondered how something as simple as a candle could transport you to a specific place and time, you’ll want to read on. This blog post will dive into the inspiration behind Albisa Candles, the entrepreneurial journey of Isabel, and what sets her candles apart in a world full of lavender-scented options.

The Genesis of Albisa Candles: Inspiration Rooted in Heritage

Isabel Alvarez’s journey into candle making wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about honoring her roots. When her husband noticed her passion for crafting candles, originally intended as gifts for friends and family, he encouraged her to transform her hobby into a full-fledged business. Thus, Albisa Candles was born—named after her husband, Albert, and her own nickname, Issa.

What really struck me during our conversation was the deep connection Isabel has with her Cuban heritage. Every candle she creates carries with it a story, a memory, or a slice of life that is deeply personal, yet universally relatable. Whether it’s the scent of buttery Cuban bread or the cologne-inspired Havana Nights candle, Isabel’s creations go beyond just aroma—they evoke powerful memories.

Isabel beautifully summed it up by saying, “Scent can evoke memories. It can take you back. You light our Cuban bread candle, and it instantly takes you to Saturday morning with your grandparents.” This is the kind of emotional resonance that sets Albisa Candles apart from the standard, run-of-the-mill options out there.

Crafting Authenticity: The Art and Chemistry Behind the Scents

One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation was diving into the process behind each candle. Isabel emphasized the sheer amount of testing and fine-tuning it takes to capture a scent that feels authentic. For example, her café con leche candle went through more than 23 variations before she landed on the right formula. It’s this dedication to getting it just right that allows her candles to have such a strong impact on those who smell them.

Creating these candles is no small feat. Isabel told me, “You become a little bit of a chemist… It has to be the right temperature, everything.” What’s impressive is that Albisa Candles are hand-poured, with Isabel painstakingly controlling every facet of the process to ensure consistency and authenticity.

The Entrepreneurial Grind: Balancing Passion and Business

Isabel’s entrepreneurial journey is both inspiring and challenging. Growing up with a father who was a self-made entrepreneur, Isabel was no stranger to hard work. She recognized early on the unique opportunities available in the U.S. for those willing to put in the effort. However, as most entrepreneurs will tell you, the journey is far from easy. Isabel juggles all aspects of her small business—from production to marketing—on top of being a mother and a wife.

She candidly shared with me the struggle of balancing work-life responsibilities. “There’s not a time off. I’m constantly looking at emails, responding to people, thinking of what I’m going to create next,” she explained. It’s a constant hustle, but it’s clear that her passion drives her to push through the late nights and early mornings.

Expanding the Vision: What’s Next for Albisa Candles?

One of the things that intrigued me most was hearing about Isabel’s plans for the future. She revealed her exciting idea to expand the Albisa brand beyond Cuban heritage to encompass other Latin cultures as well. This initiative is set to launch around Hispanic Heritage Month and aims to show the rich diversity and interconnectivity within Latin culture.

Isabel teased me with some upcoming scents, one of which might even indulge our sweet tooth—think caramel custard! The notion of expanding her offerings to include scents inspired by Puerto Rico, Mexico, and other nations is brilliant and timely.

Preparing for the Big Season: Sales Goals and Strategies

As we move into the third and fourth quarters of the year, Isabel is gearing up for what is the busiest season for candle makers—pre-Black Friday through the holidays. This is where the bulk of Albisa Candle’s revenue is generated, and Isabel is laser-focused on maximizing this period. She’s actively engaging her community via Instagram and planning for a big anniversary sale on August 25th that will coincide with the launch of new products.

Wrapping Up

Isabel Alvarez’s journey with Albisa Candles is a labor of love and a proud homage to her Cuban roots. Through her scents, she offers a unique way to reconnect with memories, making her candles more than just decorative items, but rather, experiences of their own. Whether you’re looking to bring a piece of home into your living space or want to explore the beauty of Cuban culture through scent, Albisa Candles stand out as a way to do just that.

Be sure to visit albisacandles.com this August 25th for their five-year anniversary sale—trust me, you don’t want to miss out. And if you’re as inspired by Isabel’s story as I am, I highly recommend listening to the full episode on Talk Commerce for even more insights.

Curious to experience Albisa Candles for yourself? Head over to their website and explore the unique offerings. Don’t forget to follow them on Instagram and sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on all the latest releases and promotions!

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The Booming Home Watch Business with Diane Pisani

November 25, 2024July 30, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

In this episode of Talk Commerce, we’re joined by Diane Pisani, founder of the Home Watch Academy, to explore the burgeoning Home Watch Business and its surprising appeal to millennials. Diane, a seasoned entrepreneur with extensive experience in this field, shares her insights into the growth, potential, and evolving landscape of this unique industry.

The Essence of the Home Watch Business:

The Home Watch Business centers on providing diligent oversight and care for unoccupied properties, ensuring their security and maintenance while homeowners are away. Diane highlights the crucial role Home Watch professionals play in preventing damage, mitigating risks, and offering peace of mind to absentee homeowners. From routine checks for leaks and security breaches to coordinating necessary repairs and managing concierge services, Home Watch professionals are the unsung heroes of property preservation.

Exploring the Millennial Appeal of the Home Watch Business:

Contrary to the initial perception of Home Watch as a predominantly Baby Boomer-driven industry, Diane reveals a significant surge in interest among millennials. She attributes this trend to the flexibility, independence, and potential for high income that the Home Watch Business offers. For millennials seeking work-life balance and meaningful entrepreneurial ventures, Home Watch provides an attractive avenue for career growth and financial independence.

The Impact of the Home Watch Business on the Real Estate and Property Management Industries:

The rise of the Home Watch Business has a profound impact on the real estate and property management sectors. By offering specialized services tailored to absentee homeowners, Home Watch professionals complement and enhance the services provided by real estate agents and property managers. Diane emphasizes the collaborative nature of these industries, working together to provide comprehensive solutions for property owners and ensuring the long-term value and integrity of their investments.

Listener Questions and Insights:

Q: What are the essential skills needed to succeed in the Home Watch Business?
A (Diane): Attention to detail, strong communication skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a genuine commitment to client satisfaction are paramount. The Home Watch Academy provides comprehensive training to equip aspiring professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this field.
Q: What is the typical income potential for a Home Watch professional?
A (Diane): The income potential is highly scalable and depends on factors such as the number of clients, service offerings, and geographic location. However, with diligent effort and effective business management, Home Watch professionals can generate substantial income, often exceeding traditional employment opportunities.

Watching the Home Watch Business Grow:

The Home Watch Business is experiencing a period of dynamic growth, fueled by increasing demand and a growing recognition of its vital role in safeguarding valuable assets. As more millennials embrace this entrepreneurial path, the industry is poised for continued expansion and innovation, offering exciting opportunities for those seeking a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Revolutionizing E-commerce Payments: Insights from Skipify’s Linda Xu

November 25, 2024July 2, 2024 Brent W. Peterson

Welcome to another exciting episode of Talk Commerce! I’m your host, Brent Peterson, and today we’re diving deep into the world of e-commerce payments with Linda Xu, the Chief Commercial Officer at Skipify. Linda’s journey from finance to co-founding Cart.com, and now leading innovation at Skipify, offers a wealth of insights for anyone in the e-commerce space. Let’s explore how Skipify is changing the game in online transactions.

The Evolution of Connected Wallets

Linda introduced us to Skipify’s groundbreaking “connected wallet” concept. Unlike traditional digital wallets, Skipify’s solution allows customers to access their payment information using just their email address. This streamlined approach significantly reduces friction in the checkout process, potentially boosting conversion rates for merchants.

As someone who’s been in the e-commerce industry for years, I find this innovation particularly exciting. It addresses a long-standing pain point in online shopping – the tedious process of entering payment information, especially on mobile devices.

Boosting Conversion Rates Through Better Authorization

One of the most striking insights Linda shared was about improving authorization rates. Skipify’s technology has shown to increase these rates by 4-6%, which directly impacts conversion rates. Linda explained how this improvement comes from reducing common decline reasons, such as incorrect billing information.

This resonates with my experience working with merchants. Even a small increase in authorization rates can have a significant impact on a business’s bottom line. It’s a prime example of how focusing on the technical aspects of payments can yield tangible business results.

The Future of E-commerce Platforms

We had an interesting discussion about the future of e-commerce platforms. Linda emphasized Skipify’s platform-agnostic approach, which I believe is crucial in today’s diverse e-commerce landscape. As someone who’s worked with various platforms, I appreciate solutions that can adapt to different ecosystems.

Linda’s insights into the evolving merchant needs and the importance of flexibility in technology solutions were spot-on. It’s clear that the future of e-commerce will require adaptable, user-centric solutions.

Personalization in Online Payments

Another fascinating aspect of our conversation was about personalization in payments. Linda explained how Skipify aims to surface the payment methods that individual shoppers prefer. This level of personalization not only enhances the user experience but also aligns with the broader trend of tailored shopping experiences in e-commerce.

From my perspective, this focus on personalization is key to staying competitive in today’s market. It’s no longer just about offering a product; it’s about creating a seamless, personalized journey from browsing to checkout.

Security and Trust in Digital Transactions

We couldn’t discuss online payments without addressing security concerns. Linda detailed Skipify’s approach to ensuring secure transactions, including real-time verification and partnerships with trusted financial institutions.

Having seen the evolution of payment security in e-commerce, from the early days of unencrypted credit card storage to today’s sophisticated systems, I’m impressed by Skipify’s commitment to security. It’s reassuring to see companies prioritizing this crucial aspect of online commerce.

Embracing Innovation in E-commerce

My conversation with Linda Xu was enlightening and inspiring. It’s clear that Skipify is at the forefront of revolutionizing how we think about and implement online payments. From connected wallets to improved authorization rates and personalized experiences, the future of e-commerce payments looks exciting.

For merchants and e-commerce professionals, staying informed about these innovations is crucial. I encourage you to listen to the full episode to gain more insights into leveraging these advancements in your business.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Talk Commerce. Don’t forget to subscribe for more discussions on the latest trends and innovations in e-commerce. Until next time, keep innovating and growing your online business!

You can learn more about Linda Xu and Skipify Here.

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