ECOMMERCE

MARKETING Podcast

E-Commerce Journeys from Success to Sale – with Ben Leonard

In this episode of the eCommerce Marketing Podcast, host Arlen Robinson interviews Ben Leonard, a renowned e-commerce expert and founder of benleonard.pro. Ben shares his journey from a marine ecologist to a successful e-commerce entrepreneur, providing valuable insights into building, scaling, and selling online businesses. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of growing and exiting an e-commerce business.

Key Takeaways

  • Introduction and Ben’s Background ([00:03] – [04:22])
    • Ben’s unconventional journey from marine ecology to e-commerce.
    • His initial skepticism about entrepreneurship and eventual transition due to health issues.
    • Growth of his fitness brand to $6 million in revenue in three years and its successful sale.
  • Key Strategies for Business Growth ([05:30] – [07:58])
    • Importance of quality across product, customer experience, and service.
    • Treating the business as a real brand rather than just a side hustle.
  • Pivotal Moments in Business Growth ([08:54] – [11:31])
    • Transitioning from chaotic launch mode to a growth mindset.
    • Building systems, processes, and a team to scale the business efficiently.
  • Lessons from Challenges ([11:49] – [16:33])
    • Importance of adapting to trends and trying new things quickly.
    • Learning that “cheap is expensive and expensive is cheap” through trademark issues.
    • Importance of professional help for intellectual property protection.
  • Brand Development and its Importance ([17:03] – [20:45])
    • Understanding the audience and consistency in brand messaging.
    • Engaging with customers authentically to build loyalty.
    • Viewing brand as a group of products that solve problems for a group of people.
  • Preparing for a Successful Business Exit ([21:38] – [27:17])
    • Starting to think about exit strategies early.
    • Optimizing the business to be attractive to buyers by ensuring growth, profitability, and low risk.
    • Understanding what buyers want and making the business transferable.
  • Emerging Trends in E-Commerce ([27:50] – [29:47])
    • The impact of TikTok shop and the link between Amazon and Facebook/Instagram ads.
    • The potential of AI and 3D printing for personalized products and rapid delivery.

Guest Info

Ben Leonard

Co-Founder of Ecom Brokers

LinkedIn: Ben Leonard

Website: Ben Leonard Pro

Book: Quit Stalling and Build Your Brand

Business Exit Advice: Ecom Brokers

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