The Watson Weekend hosts Rick Watson and Jessica Lesesky discuss recent retail headlines, including Amazon's $2.5 billion lawsuit over alleged Prime subscription deception, Walmart's significant referral traffic from ChatGPT, Sephora's new affiliate program aimed at beauty creators, and Meta's talks with Google to enhance ad targeting using AI. They then interview Kristen Wiley, founder and CEO of Statusphere, a platform that enables brands to generate thousands of influencer posts efficiently by focusing on micro-influencers. Kristen shares her background as a creator and marketer, the slow and strategic growth of Statusphere, and the importance of providing a strong creator experience with human support alongside AI tools. She highlights how Statusphere helps brands achieve brand-safe content at scale, integrates influencer marketing across various campaign types, and addresses challenges like attribution and product-market fit. Kristen also discusses the evolving role of AI in marketing, the value of authentic human-generated content, and the potential for influencer data to influence AI models. The episode highlights the increasing importance of creator-driven marketing and the necessity for brands to cultivate communities and employ multi-channel strategies.Welcome to The Watson Weekend - 00:00Headline Hangover 02:56Introducing Kristen Wiley 15:47The importance of solving the creator experience 23:40Human touch in a post-AI world 25:33Using micro-influencers vs celebrities 28:25Generating ROI 30:52Attribution and its influencer challenge 35:00Nightmare situations 38:15Product Market fit to validate the need for 42:20 Statusphere community and content 43:40#watsonweekend #creators #microinfluencer #communityThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
The Watson Weekend is sponsored by Rithum because if you’re in commerce, this is the event you can’t miss. Rithum LIVE is happening Sept 25 in New York City and Oct 9 in London—bringing together top brands, retailers, and leaders for a full day on the future of commerce. Learn more at rithum.com/nycHosts Rick Watson and Jessica Lesesky begin the show with a review of the news from the past weekend that caught their attention. The headline Hangover highlights Rent the Runway's subscriber growth but declining profits amid competition, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy's initiative to cut bureaucracy and return to a startup culture, and varied holiday sales forecasts, with consumers expected to benefit despite retailer margin pressures. YouTube's creator economy is noted for paying out over $100 billion to creators in four years, underscoring the platform's growth and influence. They then sit down with David Katz, EVP and CMO of Randa Apparel and Accessories, a billion-dollar company managing 35 brands, including Calvin Klein, Levi Strauss, Cole Haan, Dickies, Tommy Hilfiger, Columbia Sportswear, and 30 additional brands.🔥 KEY TOPICS COVERED:What percentage of the Randa business is as a licensee to another brand versus its own?What challenges are retailers facing, and how do they impact brands?The importance of direct engagement with customersHow Randa uses its “moats, boats, and bridges” frameworkThe challenges, such as tariff uncertainties, inventory risk, and the impact of public company pressures on retailersThe importance of looking to the future rather than recreating the normalThe conversation underscores the complexity of modern retail, the critical role of leadership and culture in navigating change, and the potential of AI and technology as tools rather than solutions. Chapters:Welcome to The Watson Weekend - 00:00Headline Hangover - 03:47Introducing David Katz 18:21Randa Apparel and Accessories business model 21:31Disruption and technology 23:43The current environment 27:30Exceptions prove the rule 33:45Uncertainty and supply chain 39:52Leadership and rationalization - 43:01Customer loyalty 43:36The tale of Hudson's Bay 46:24What role does data play in retail 50:54The impact of AI - 54:36The Taylor Swift impact 57:00Strategy in today’s world - 01:02:27What is the 'moats, boats, and bridges' framework - 01:10:00The need to look towards the future and not return to the normal - 01:17:45#watsonweekend #marketing #randa #leadershipThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
In this crossover episode, hosts Rick Watson and Jessica Lesesky talk with Shailesh Kumar, SVP of Engineering at Salesforce. He is the Head of Engineering for Salesforce Commerce & Retail Cloud. He previously served as SVP and Head of Engineering at ClickUp and VP of Engineering at MuleSoft, both of which were acquired by Salesforce.The headline hangover contains job numbers, Google, and the open web. Vivrelle added an AI stylist feature and Office Depot's new pickup promise.This episode of the Watson Weekend is sponsored by Rithum. Rithum Live 2025 will be in New York City on September 25, and Rick Watson will attend and be on stage. In London on 9 October, with Watson Weekend producer Vinny O'Brien, who will attend and be on stage. For more details, go to rithum.com/nycThis crossover episode, which includes the Oh Shift episode, can be viewed as an AI primer that will benefit listeners by clarifying the acronyms and terminology associated with agentic commerce.In this conversation, we dive into:The opportunity that the model context protocol (MCP) provides developers and, in the future, non-developersWhat Shailesh and this team want to evaluate from the current MCP pilot within Commerce Cloud. How software development will evolve as more tools and agents democratize the creation of software. The difference between public large language models and custom-built large language models.The distinction between deterministic output and non-deterministic flow has long existed in software engineering, along with the risks it poses to businesses. AgentForce, which Salesforce offers partners to develop agents on, and provides pre-built agents to Salesforce customers.How agents and platforms can interact with stitching and have guardrails around them to enable merchants to deliver joy to consumers.The impact that agentic commerce will have inside organizations and how to handle the speed of innovation.ChaptersWelcome to The Watson Weekend - 00:00Headline Hangover - 02:40Introducing the O Shift podcast - 13:08Introducing Shailesh Kumar -17:03What is Model Context Protocol (MCP)? - 19:13Why is Salesforce investing in MCP capabilities? - 21:47Who is the current target audience for MCP? - 23:00What is the difference between deterministic and non-deterministic workflows in AI agents? 26:02#watsonweekend #ohshift #mcp #modelcontextprotocolThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
This episode is brought to you by Mirakl. Because “Traditional eCommerce” Is Just Code for “Not Growing.” It’s time to do better than the status quo. Join 450+ retailers who are scaling 6X faster with AI, automation, and a platform built for what’s next. Marketplace, dropship, and retail media at enterprise-grade scale. It's time to accelerate with Mirakl.Join Rick Watson and Jessica Lesesky on The Watson Weekend as they sit down with Jenn George, Chief Communications Officer at Aspen Group. A seasoned brand leader and ultra-runner, Jenn shares her unique philosophy on simplifying the complex, finding clarity in chaos, and why communication is about steadying the humans inside a brand, not just crafting the perfect press release.In this conversation, we dive into:How to find signal in the noise and create a powerful narrative that drives action.The importance of authenticity and vulnerability, and why it beats perfection in an age of "AI slop".The "know, feel, do" framework for effective communication strategies.Real-world examples of brands and leaders who have successfully navigated major transformations.How Jenn's experience as an ultra-runner taught her that our perceived limits are often not real, a lesson she applies to business leadership.This is a must-watch for any leader who wants to master communication and build a resilient brand in today's unpredictable world.Chapters:Welcome to The Watson Weekend - 00:00:00Headline Hangover Starts - 00:03:40Introducing Jenn George - 00:16:38Communication in a World of Chaos - 00:19:51How to Build Brand Trust - 00:27:16Closing Remarks - 01:07:25This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
This episode is brought to you by Mirakl. Because “Traditional eCommerce” Is Just Code for “Not Growing.” It’s time to do better than the status quo. Join 450+ retailers who are scaling 6X faster with AI, automation, and a platform built for what’s next. Marketplace, dropship, and retail media at enterprise-grade scale. It's time to accelerate with Mirakl.Join us on a special Wednesday edition of The Watson Weekend with hosts Rick Watson and Jessica Laseski. We’re excited to welcome Sonal Gandhi, Chief Content Officer at The Lead, and Margo Oshry, Senior Director of Talent and Influencer Marketing at Authentic. We dive into The Lead's brand-new "D60 next list" and discuss the future of retail leadership, the power of non-traditional backgrounds, and the evolving world of influencer marketing.Link: https://the-lead.co/the-d60-next-list/In this episode, we explore:The Lead’s new list of up-and-coming retail leaders and what makes them stand out.The strategic role of in-house influencer marketing and brand-building at Authentic.The importance of nurturing relationships and personal branding for career growth.How non-traditional backgrounds and diverse perspectives are driving innovation in the industry.The need for adaptability and speed in a fast-paced market where waiting too long can mean missing opportunities.This is a must-watch for anyone in the retail and e-commerce space who wants to stay ahead of the curve and understand what it takes to be a leader in the next generation.Chapters:Welcome to The Watson Weekend - 00:00:00Headline Hangover Starts - 00:02:59Introducing Sonal & Margo - 00:16:24The Rise of the Next Generation of Retail Leaders - 00:27:44The Power of In-House Influencer Marketing - 00:30:30Closing Remarks - 00:41:45This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
This episode is brought to you by Mirakl. Because “Traditional eCommerce” Is Just Code for “Not Growing.” It’s time to do better than the status quo. Join 450+ retailers who are scaling 6X faster with AI, automation, and a platform built for what’s next. Marketplace, dropship, and retail media at enterprise-grade scale. It's time to accelerate with Mirakl.Thanks to our sponsor, Crstl—The smarter way to EDI. See why brands like Neuro Gum and Andy Swim love it at CRSTL.ai.Join Rick, Jess, and special guest Nate Skiver, founder of LPF Spend Management, as they dive into a fiery discussion about the state of shipping in e-commerce. In this spicy wing-eating challenge, Nate debunks a major shipping myth and shares his expertise from over two decades in the retail and consulting world.In this episode, we explore:The biggest myth in shipping and why it's finally dying a slow death.How the e-commerce market has changed, creating more options beyond the "big three" carriers.The role of regional carriers and why more retailers are turning to them.How shipping technology advancements are making multi-carrier shipping easier to manage.Grab a glass of milk and get ready for a fast-paced, insightful conversation that will change the way you think about your shipping strategy!Chapters:Welcome to the Watson Weekend - 00:00:00Headline Hangover Starts - 00:02:49Introducing Nate Skiver - 00:16:31The Biggest Shipping Myth - 00:22:54The Future of the Parcel Industry - 00:26:56Final Thoughts - 00:46:17This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Join us for a captivating episode of The Watson Weekend with guest Emmett Shine, the founder and creative director at Little Plains and co-founder of Pattern Brands. Known for helping launch and grow iconic brands like Harry's, Sweetgreen, and Warby Parker, Emmett sits down with Nick Kaplan to discuss the evolution of commerce, the role of human creativity in the age of AI, and what truly makes a brand resilient.In this interview, we dive into:How AI is changing the game for agencies and brand builders.The critical difference between "pull marketing" and "push marketing."Why authenticity and vulnerability are more important than polished perfection.The concept of "brand as a club" and the human need for belonging.Why retail spaces are evolving into "content studios" for a new generation of "experience collectors."Emmett's philosophy on staying ahead of creative obsolescence by being "as close to the metal as possible."This is a must-watch for founders, marketers, and creatives looking to understand how to build brands that matter in a rapidly changing world.Chapters:Welcome to The Watson Weekend - 00:00:00Headline Hangover Sponsored by Crstl Starts - 00:01:44Introducing Emmett Shine - 00:15:10The Future of Commerce & AI - 00:19:45Brands as Ecosystems & the Agency Model - 00:29:51Closing Remarks - 01:07:41This episode is brought to you by Mirakl. Because “Traditional eCommerce” Is Just Code for “Not Growing.” It’s time to do better than the status quo. Join 450+ retailers who are scaling 6X faster with AI, automation, and a platform built for what’s next. Marketplace, dropship, and retail media at enterprise-grade scale. It's time to accelerate with Mirakl.Thanks to our sponsor, Crstl—The smarter way to EDI. See why brands like Neuro Gum and Andy Swim love it at CRSTL.ai.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Welcome to a special episode of The Watson Weekend as Vinny O'Brien and Nick Kaplan sit down with marketplace veteran George Chang, General Manager of Shein's third-party marketplace business. George provides a rare and fascinating look into how Shein has mastered the Gen Z market and built a massive global platform.George shares his insights on:The surprising details of Shein's global operations and community engagement efforts, including partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club of America.How Shein is winning with Gen Z, who are more likely to own a cell phone than to brush their teeth.The expansion of Shein's marketplace beyond fast fashion and the strategic criteria for new sellers.How Shein leverages its data platform and social features to create a unique and vibrant customer experience.The future of e-commerce, including the role of logistics, AI, and social commerce.This is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand one of the world's most talked-about e-commerce giants and its approach to building a platform for the next generation of consumers.Chapters:Welcome to The Watson Weekend - 0:00:00Headline Hangover Sponsored by CRSTL - 0:06:42Introducing George Chang - 0:17:39How Shein is Winning with Gen Z - 0:23:42The Marketplace Business Model & Seller Strategy - 0:41:29Final Thoughts and Farewell - 0:54:13This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
This week on The Watson Weekend, we sit down with brand-building veteran Dave "Finn" Finnegan, former CMO of Orvis and Build-A-Bear. Finn shares his unique perspective on marketing, drawing from his experiences in retail and as a budding anthropologist. We dive into the importance of authentic connections, the balance between data and storytelling, and how to create brands that truly resonate with customers. Plus, Finn tells us about his latest adventure: a dinosaur dig in Portugal!In this episode, we discuss:How studying anthropology provides a new lens for brand building.The critical difference between personalization and fostering a sense of community and belonging.The "one-two punch" of combining performance marketing with authentic storytelling.Why brands must focus on solving human problems, not just selling solutions.How brands can connect with Gen Z, who are "collectors of experiences, not collectors of stuff."The shift in retail from "square foot sales" to creating in-store "content studios."Finn's fascinating work with the Explorers Club and his recent dinosaur dig.Don't miss this insightful conversation that goes beyond the usual marketing metrics to explore the heart and soul of what makes a brand great.Chapters:Welcome to The Watson Weekend - 0:00:00Headline Hangover Sponsored by CSTRL - 0:01:43Introducing Dave "Finn" Finnegan - 0:16:53Anthropology and Marketing - 0:19:37The Balance Between Performance Marketing and Storytelling - 0:21:46From CMO to Dinosaur Digs: Finn's Anthropology Journey - 1:05:11The End of the Show - 1:15:10This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Join us for a captivating conversation with Dilip Keshu, founder of BORN Group and a visionary in global commerce. In this episode of The Watson Weekend Live Show, Dilip unpacks the evolving landscape of retail, the true potential of AI, and why human curiosity remains irreplaceable.We dive deep into:The saturated e-commerce market and how brands can truly stand out.The three stages of growth in a market: Keynesian model, Say's Law, and continuous innovation.Why "one-to-one personalization" hasn't fully arrived yet, and how AI is changing the game.The concept of a "unique buying proposition" and its importance in understanding customer behavior.The limitations of AI in moving culture and the enduring power of human inspiration.The mechanics behind agency roll-ups and the challenges of scaling "art".The evolution from customer experience (CX) to human experience (HX) and the role of purpose-driven design.Why curiosity is the ultimate driver for brands and leaders in a rapidly changing world.Don't miss this insightful discussion on the intersection of art, science, and the human element in the future of commerce!Chapters:0:00:00 - Welcome to The Watson Weekend0:03:00 - Headline Hangover: NRF Nexus 2025 Cancelled0:17:00 - Introducing Dilip Keshu: Founder of BORN Group0:38:00 - AI's Limitations: Can it Move Culture?0:51:00 - The Future: Metaverse & Immersive Commerce1:04:00 - Unasking the Question: A Leader's ApproachThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Sue Azari, a distinguished e-commerce executive at AppsFlyer, exposes the shocking truths about mobile app marketing that most retailers are getting completely wrong. From why your "best customers" might not be what you think to the real reason Teemu is terrifying luxury brands, this conversation reveals the mobile strategies that actually drive revenue.🔥 Mind-Blowing Revelations:75% of mobile ad spend goes to remarketing (not acquisition!)Why the "best customers download apps" theory is backwardsThe Day 1 login metric that predicts lifetime valueHow Temu became #1 downloaded shopping app globallyWhy luxury brands are scared of $2 impulse purchasesThe "side of desk" problem killing app strategiesChapters:0:00 - Intro2:46 - Headline Hangover: Sponsored by CRSTL20:16 - Sue Azari Introduction (AppsFlyer E-commerce Expert)34:15 - Apps as Loyalty Program Hubs: The Future Strategy57:35 - Organizational Strategy: Who Should Own Apps?1:02:44 - The Temu Warning: Why Every Retailer Is Terrified💡 Why This Matters: Mobile apps aren't just another channel—they're becoming the primary battleground for customer loyalty. Sue's insights from working with global brands reveal the strategies that separate winners from losers in mobile commerce.🎯 Subscribe for more mobile marketing secrets and e-commerce strategy deep-dives!The Watson Weekend is sponsored by Mirakl.#MobileMarketing #Apps #Ecommerce #RetailStrategy #AppsFlyerThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Michael McCluskey, VP of Marketplace at Lowe's, drops bombshells about how they launched their marketplace faster than anyone expected and why traditional retail is dead. From competing with Amazon's drone delivery to the shocking truth about why most marketplace projects fail, this conversation reveals the inside strategy of America's second-largest home improvement retailer.Key Revelations:How Lowe's launched their marketplace in under 4 months (most take years)Why Amazon's grocery strategy is failing vs WalmartThe "set it and forget it" marketplace myth that kills businessesInside look at Lowe's $XXX million digital transformationWhy traditional merchants are panicking about marketplace sellersChapters: 0:00 - Intro & Sponsors 2:47 - Headline Hangover: Sponsored by CRSTL 16:35 - Michael McCluskey Introduction (VP of Marketplace, Lowe's) 20:11 - The Lowe's Marketplace Strategy: Who It's Really For 1:04:13 - Closing Thoughts & What's Next for Lowe'sWhy This Matters: Lowe's marketplace strategy could reshape how traditional retailers compete with Amazon. Their approach to seller onboarding, associate training, and omnichannel integration reveals the playbook other retailers desperately need.Subscribe for more retail industry insider interviews and e-commerce strategy breakdowns!#Lowes #Marketplace #Retail #Ecommerce #Amazon #StrategyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
David Baker, CDO at Beekman 1802, spills the secrets behind TikTok Shop's explosive growth from political campaign tactics to beauty brand domination. From Obama's digital team strategies to becoming the #5 retailer in America, this deep dive reveals what actually works.🔥 Key Takeaways:Why TikTok Shop beats Instagram/Facebook 10:1 in social commerceThe "visual hook" formula that drives viral product salesWhy you need 10X more content than you think (and why most fails)How to turn influencers into a sales funnel, not just marketingThe 3-second rule that makes or breaks TikTok successWhy "authentic" beats "polished" every single timeCHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro02:29 The Headline Hangover17:33 David Baker Joins the Show22:18 Content Volume Reality Check (10X More Than You Think)34:12 Authenticity vs Production Value44:58 The Real Cost of TikTok Shop Success56:40 Political Campaign Tactics for Brand BuildingPerfect for: Brand managers, e-commerce leaders, social media marketers, and anyone trying to crack the TikTok Shop code.#TikTokShop #SocialCommerce #InfluencerMarketing #Ecommerce #DigitalMarketingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
In this eye-opening full interview, Sid Jatia, GM's Global VP of Digital Commerce & Service, drops truth bombs about what really works in large enterprise organizations. From Microsoft to Under Armour to General Motors, Sid shares battle-tested strategies that challenge conventional leadership wisdom.🔥 Key Takeaways:Why execution beats vision for team motivationThe real reason cross-functional teams fail (it's not what you think)How GM turns service appointments into sales opportunitiesWhy "picking up the phone" still beats Slack and emailThe truth about AI implementation in Fortune 500 companiesCHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro01:57 Headline Hangover16:37 Sid Introduction25:30 Enterprise as Competitive Advantage44:55 AI Implementation Reality Check52:18 Voice Commerce & Future TrendsPerfect for: C-suite executives, product managers, team leaders, and anyone navigating enterprise complexity.#Leadership #Enterprise #GM #DigitalTransformation #TeamManagementThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Nick Kaplan steps in as guest co-host with Rick Watson —and yes, we doubled up on Nicks because mediocrity requires one, but excellence needs two.Nick and Rick, who are in the same studio, talk about Peleton’s P2P play, Temu’s struggle, and they recap The Lead Summit.They are then joined by Shopify Agency operators to talk about their trip to Toronto for Editions.🧠 The Shopify Agency Lineup:Mark Perini – Founder of ICEE SocialJacquelyn Laufer – Driver Digital Partner Nick Thomson – Head of Partnerships at The Maze GroupWe cover several key issues arising from last week's Edition.dev event:- What were the vibes at Shopify Editions in Toronto?- Will there be a system integrator extinction event due to AI and Horizon?- What should agencies lean into as a result of Editions?- Is there really a staging environment? Are we serious right now?- Is Headless Dead To Shopify?0:00 Introduction3:20 Headline Hangover sponsored by Passport3:26 Peloton repowered?6:33 Temu - now half off9:38 The Lead Summit recap12:06 Shopify Editions conversation12:40 Introducing Nick Thomson, Mark Perini, and Jacquelyn Laufer13:20 What would you tell a friend about the Kool-Aid Mecca?16:40 Shopify Design changes19:35 Shopify catching agencies off guard22:15 Shopify headless builds going full-stack24:00 Sidekick demo and the future of AI 32:15 The future of the Shop App with AI?39:37 The hypothetical agency48:30 Shopify’s attitude towards the ecosystem🙏 Big thanks to our sponsor, Mirakl:“Because ‘Traditional eCommerce’ is just code for Not Growing.”Join 450+ retailers scaling smarter with AI, marketplaces, dropship, and retail media.#watsonweekend #agency #shopify #shopifyeditions #POS #ai #b2bThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
INDUSTRY DEBATE: VTEX co-founder Mariano Gomide de Faria sits down with Mach Alliance President Casper Rasmussen after his viral LinkedIn post that sparked major discussion in the e-commerce world!The Discussion: Mariano's post about the Mach Alliance's evolution generated hundreds of comments and industry-wide conversation about the future of enterprise architecture.Key Highlights:The evolution of enterprise architecture principlesWhy simplicity is the key to future successBold prediction: Platform migrations in just 20 daysHow AI agents will reshape retail architectureThe real challenges facing enterprise transformationFinding common ground: Will they collaborate again?Featured Guests:Mariano Gomide de Faria (Co-founder & Co-CEO, VTEX)Casper Rasmussen (President, MACH Alliance & SVP, Valtech)CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro13:55 - The Industry Discussion Begins33:12 - Mach Alliance: Marketing or Mindset?42:00 - Stakeholder-Focused Architecture Revolution45:15 - Are Mach Principles Now "Table Stakes"?57:45 - Agentic Commerce: The Next Paradigm59:30 - Future Collaboration Possibilities61:45 - Final Thoughts: Moving Forward Together#MachAlliance #VTEX #EnterpriseArchitecture #RetailTech #ComposableCommerceThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
In this no-holds-barred conversation, Rick Watson sits down with Jo Baker, CEO of ShipperHQ, for a brutally honest discussion about the current state of e-commerce platforms. From Adobe's struggles with Magento to Shopify's enterprise ambitions and BigCommerce's missed opportunities, nothing is off limits.🔥 KEY TOPICS COVERED:Why Adobe needs to "stop apologizing for Magento"The real reason BigCommerce failed during COVID (the best period for e-commerce ever)Shopify's secret weapon that competitors can't replicateWhether Adobe should have sold Magento 5 years agoWhy innovation isn't coming from platform vendors anymoreThe brutal truth about BigCommerce's "pants" marketing strategyJo Baker pulls no punches in this discussion, calling out platform weaknesses while offering insider insights from someone who partners with Shopify, Adobe, and BigCommerce. Her British candor and industry expertise make for compelling viewing as she breaks down what's really happening behind the scenes.⚡ CONTROVERSIAL TAKES:"BigCommerce was the only company with commerce in the name that did not take advantage of COVID"Adobe's creative suite gives them an "unchallengeable position" but they're wasting itWhy most B2B merchants don't actually need headless solutions📖 CHAPTERS:00:00:00 - Introduction & Platform Wars Begin00:02:37 - The Adobe Commerce Controversy00:11:28 - Shopify's Checkout Innovation Revolution00:28:15 - Adobe's Wasted Creative Advantage00:36:50 - Should Adobe Have Sold Magento?00:44:17 - BigCommerce Reality Check00:51:52 - "BigCommerce Marketing is Pretty Crap"This episode is brought to you by Mirakl. Because "Traditional eCommerce" is just code for "Not Growing." It's time to do better than the status quo. Join 450+ retailers who are scaling 6X faster with AI, automation, and a platform built for what's next. Marketplace, dropship, and retail media at enterprise-grade scale. It's time to accelerate with Mirakl.#Ecommerce #Shopify #Adobe #BigCommerce #Magento #PlatformWars #MiraklThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
It is a reunion show. Hosts Jessica Lesesky and Nick Kaplan run the Watson Weekend while Rick Watson is away. A longer headline hangover, as there is a lot to talk about:Klarna is walking back its initial bullishness on artificial intelligence. There are certain situations where humans need to defuse a situation (think CRM and a customer having a meltdown) - an AI agent or bot cannot resolve a situation to the benefit of the company.Weight Watchers announced that their clinical division filed for Chapter 11, which they acquired via their telehealth company. Oprah Winfrey’s company is caught between a generation shift in how weight is managed. From goals and plans to GLP-1, which has left WW in a bad place.2025 is a unique year as we are seeing footwear brands such as Sketchers go private and Dick Sporting Goods acquiring Foot Lockers for billions. Who would have thought this in 2025?Evolve or die is a Kaplan’s Corner staple. Which event is worth investing in if you do not have the budget? Early 2018—The Lead organizers saw many companies in the direct-to-customer (DTC) sector competing against incumbents. There are no events for brands, but there are for vendors—lifestyle brands that are emerging. A two-day show that is highly curated showcases what they have been hearing over the last six months and how that can be used as education for the entire sector. In 2025, the Lead Summit will showcase influencers and sports marketing, amongst other topics, for their audience.The Lead Summit is the year's apex for the event founders, but the two rankings distributed to the e-commerce sector are the foundational research that the company does annually. The theme this year is destination unknown. The business was founded around a community. The content is pretty good to absorb. The smaller footprint enables DTC brands to speak with vendors directly at booths. Invest in growth and education to minimize the downside risk of your potential decisions.Nick Kaplan is still being held hostage. He expected better from the tariffs—what do brands do? Brands can't trade on the current numbers. There are still many unknowns and uncertainties. Be mindful of inventory.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Intro03:10 - Headline Hangover Sponsored by Passport03:40 - Klarna AI backflip - rethinking their initial AI bullishness08:12 - Weight Watchers Clinical files for Chapter 11 11:18 - Dick Sporting Goods acquires Foot Locker17:18 - Walmart earnings - domination continues26:56 - Introducing The Lead's Noah Gellman and Sonal GandhiBig thanks to our sponsor, Mirakl : because “Traditional eCommerce” is just code for “Not Growing.” 450+ retailers scale 6x faster with Mirakl’s AI, automation, and marketplace infrastructure.#watsonweekend #thelead #headlinehangover a...
Join hosts Rick Watson and Jessica Leseski as they dive deep into the massive potential of B2B e-commerce with Jack Freeman, Partner at PeakSpan Capital. With B2B commerce now reaching $36 trillion in sales, this episode explores why this market is finally gaining momentum after years of slow adoption.Jack shares valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities in the B2B space, including the generational shift in buying patterns, the impact of digital natives entering procurement roles, and how software companies are solving complex industry problems. Learn about investment trends, platform competition, and why vertical-specific solutions are thriving in this fragmented market.The hosts also cover the latest e-commerce news including Shopify's impressive growth, Amazon's luxury partnership with Saks, Temu's tariff strategy pivot, and OpenAI's strategic hire of former Instacart CEO Fiji Simo to monetize their business.Whether you're a founder, investor, or industry professional, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the future of B2B commerce technology and strategy.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Intro00:02:51 - Headline Hangover News Segment00:14:27 - Interview with Jack Freeman00:55:25 - Wrap UpThis episode is sponsored by Mirakl.#B2Becommerce #DigitalTransformation #VentureCapital #PeakSpanCapital #Shopify #SupplyChainThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
In this episode of The Watson Weekend, hosts Rick Watson and Jess Lesetsky welcome Hawk Media founder & CEO Erik Huberman to discuss digital marketing strategies during economic uncertainty. Erik shares why cutting your marketing budget during challenging times is almost always a mistake, why a good product remains marketing's foundation, and how brands can become effective media companies. Plus, Nick Kaplan returns with week three of "Kaplan's Corner: Held Hostage" offering tactical advice on managing your workforce during turbulent times.This episode is sponsored by Mirakl. Because "Traditional eCommerce" Is Just Code for "Not Growing" It's time to do better than the status quo. Join 450+ retailers who are scaling 6X faster with AI, automation, and a platform built for what's next. Marketplace, dropship, and retail media at enterprise-grade scale. It's time to accelerate with Mirakl.CHAPTERS:00:00:00 - Introduction00:04:00 - Headline Hangover00:11:41 - ChatGPT's New Shopping Features00:19:00 - Erik Huberman on the Current Marketing Landscape00:25:28 - Why Cutting Marketing is Always a Bad Move00:34:00 - The Future of Social Media Marketing00:47:27 - Kaplan's Corner: People Strategy in Uncertain Times#DigitalMarketing #BrandStrategy #EcommerceMarketing #MarketingAgency #HawkMedia #BusinessStrategy #SocialMediaMarketingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp