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Oct. 21, 2024

Today's sponsor:

Software Founder Pivots to PPE Manufacturing

I’ve interviewed hundreds of entrepreneurs for this podcast. Most are problem solvers and optimists, confident in their ability to fulfill a need.

Take Lloyd Armbrust. He’s an editor turned software founder, having launched OwnLocal, a Y Combinator-backed portal for local newspapers.

When the pandemic hit, he observed doctors and nurses struggling to get protective gear. He thought, “This is ridiculous. How hard could it be to make these things?”

His solution was Armbrust American, an Austin, Texas-based manufacturer of personal protective equipment, which he launched in May 2020 and remains viable despite the dramatic drop in demand.

He and I recently spoke. He shared his lessons in manufacturing, ecommerce, and family-first priorities. Our entire audio is embedded below. The transcript is edited for clarity and length.

Eric Bandholz: Tell us who you are.

Read article > 

A Message from Brightpearl by Sage

Automate Tasks to Save Money

Multichannel merchants and wholesalers turn to Brightpearl's retail operating system to streamline operations, boost efficiency, and save money. Attend Brighpearl's live 15-minute Automation Engine demo on October 24 for case studies, expert Q&A, and more. All registrants receive a free voucher for a Starbucks coffee! Learn more >

New Ecommerce Tools: October 17, 2024

New releases this week include tools for AI-powered shopping assistants, video creation, search engines, payment platforms, financing, and user-generated content. Read article >

Books to Grow (or Sell) a Business, Fall 2024

Our picks of new titles for merchants address AI tactics, communicating with customers, personalization, selling the company, and more. Read article >

New Google Shopping Is an SEO Reality Check

How do merchants ensure their products are "relevant" to the new AI-driven Google Shopping? Read article > 

From the Archive: September 2006

Wired Magazine’s Chris Anderson on ‘The Long Tail’

Chris Anderson, editor-in-chief of Wired magazine, calls the phenomenon “The Long Tail,” which happens to be the title of his bestseller. Read article > 

🔥 Today's Great Ecommerce Idea

Streamline Operations to Stay Profitable

"Continuously optimize operations by cutting unnecessary costs and improving efficiency. Downsizing machines and staff while maintaining output can sustain profitability during revenue drops." - Lloyd Armbrust, CEO, Armbrust American

🎙️ Ecommerce Conversations Podcast

Lessons from Changing 3PLs

Branding Comes First, Says Sharma Brands Owner

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🎯 Industry IQ

Resources from our advertisers.

Scalable Hosting Sells More Merch

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