Hosted by Stephen Brown, COO of LedgerGurus and co-owner of DTC brand Sole Toscana, this podcast is your go-to resource for mastering the financial side of ecommerce.
Stephen and his team have worked with hundreds of brands through LedgerGurus which specializes in ecommerce accounting. Add to that his hands-on experience with Sole Toscana, gives him unique insights into the challenges and opportunities ecommerce businesses face.
On The eCommerce Finance Podcast, we dive deep into the financial side of ecommerce. Any topic is open for discussion as everything you do in business has a financial impact. Be prepared to go deep with experts and brand leaders on a variety of topics with an understanding of their financial impacts.
Join us as we bring you practical tips, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you thrive with ecommerce.
Tune in and transform your ecommerce business today!
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E14: We Tried Profit First. Here’s What ACTUALLY Happened
Épisode 14
mercredi 20 août 2025 • Durée 55:47
Summary
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Preston Alder discuss the implementation of the Profit First methodology in their business, Sole Toscana. They reflect on their initial challenges, the importance of understanding cash flow, and the mindset shift required to prioritize profit over growth.
The conversation covers practical applications of Profit First, the impact of market changes, and the scalability of its principles for larger businesses. The episode concludes with insights on navigating financial challenges and the importance of adapting strategies for future success.
Takeaways
Profit First emphasizes paying yourself first and allocating revenue into specific accounts.
Initial growth strategies can lead to financial strain if not executed properly.
Understanding the principles of Profit First can lead to a significant mindset shift in business operations.
Implementing Profit First helped the business become profitable after initial struggles.
Resource constraints can enhance focus and efficiency in marketing and operations.
Cash flow management is crucial for inventory-based businesses, especially during growth phases.
Adapting to market changes, such as tariffs, requires strategic financial planning.
Profit First principles can be scaled, but the implementation may vary by business size and industry.
Using data analytics can inform better financial decisions and forecasts.
Creating a culture of resource constraint can improve productivity and financial outcomes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Profit First
02:39 Initial Business Strategy and Challenges
05:49 Understanding Profit First Principles
10:14 Implementing Profit First in Practice
14:46 Mindset Shift: Profit vs. Growth
20:19 The Psychological Impact of Profit First
25:23 Challenges and Adaptations in Profit First Implementation
28:33 Navigating Cash Flow and Inventory Management
30:58 Ecommerce Challenges and Growth Strategies
32:40 Understanding Operating Expenses and Seasonal Trends
36:53 The Impact of Seasonality on Consumer Behavior
39:34 Adapting Profit Models to Real-World Challenges
40:59 Leveraging Analytics for Business Insights
44:28 Integrating Cash Flow Forecasting with Profit Strategies
47:57 Responding to Tariffs and Cost Management
50:29 Scaling Profit First Principles in Larger Businesses
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast Stephen Brown from LedgerGurus and Joseph May from May Law discuss the challenges eCommerce businesses face in securing funding, particularly through traditional means. They explore the concept of equity crowdfunding as an alternative funding vehicle, detailing its compliance requirements, governance implications, and the differences between raising debt and equity.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of professional guidance in navigating the complexities of crowdfunding and highlights the costs associated with the process. Additionally, they address the barriers to adoption of equity crowdfunding among ecommerce brands and the need for greater awareness of this funding option.
Takeaways
Equity crowdfunding allows businesses to raise funds from non-accredited investors.
Compliance with SEC regulations is crucial for equity crowdfunding.
Governance requirements include annual updates to investors.
Debt crowdfunding can be a viable alternative to equity.
Professional guidance can simplify the crowdfunding process.
Costs for equity crowdfunding can range from $1,500 to $30,000.
Awareness of equity crowdfunding is low among ecommerce brands.
Investors typically need a liquidity event to realize returns.
The crowdfunding process can be complex but offers unique opportunities.
Many successful brands have utilized equity crowdfunding to raise capital.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to eCommerce and Law
01:52 The Evolution of eCommerce Marketing
03:41 Challenges in eCommerce Funding
04:18 Understanding Equity Crowdfunding
08:37 Compliance and Regulations in Crowdfunding
10:46 The Role of Audited Financials
E12: Ecommerce in 2025: Mid-Year Lessons, Surprises, and Smart Moves
Épisode 12
mercredi 16 juillet 2025 • Durée 51:29
Summary
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Lauren Maillard catch up on what’s really going on in ecommerce right now. They look back at Stephen’s predictions for 2025 - what he got right (and wrong) - and dig into big changes like new tariffs, the end of the de minimis rule, and what the “Big Beautiful Bill” actually means for sellers.
They also chat about rising marketing costs, how AI is changing the way we search and shop, and what’s going on with TikTok. Plus, they dive into interest rates, economic curveballs, and smart ways to cut costs and build a brand that stands out.
Takeaways
Stephen shares his personal health journey and its impact on the podcast.
The word of the year for ecommerce is 'tariff'.
Tariffs have created significant challenges for ecommerce businesses.
The de minimis rule is being phased out, affecting international drop shipping.
The Big Beautiful Bill has both positive and negative implications for ecommerce.
Marketing costs remain high, and AI is changing the landscape.
There is a noticeable shift from Google to AI search tools like ChatGPT.
AI is becoming a new sales channel for ecommerce businesses.
TikTok's role in ecommerce is evolving, with mixed consumer engagement.
Interest rates and inflation are creating economic challenges for ecommerce.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Update
02:33 Mid-Year E-Commerce Predictions Review
05:30 Impact of Tariffs on Ecommerce
08:39 The De Minimis Rule and Its Implications
11:35 Business Environment and the Big Beautiful Bill
14:43 Marketing Challenges and AI's Role
E11: The State of Ecommerce M&A in 2025
Épisode 11
mercredi 26 mars 2025 • Durée 45:10
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, host Stephen Brown interviews Josh Robbins from the Premara Group to discuss the current state of ecommerce mergers and acquisitions.
They explore Josh's unique background in ecommerce, the evolution of M&A in the sector, and the factors that make consumer products businesses attractive to investors.
The conversation delves into the challenges faced in M&A deals, the importance of understanding profitability and valuation, and the key factors that affect deal success.
Josh emphasizes the need for preparation when selling a business and the significance of financial clarity, supply chain management, and effective marketing strategies.
Takeaways
The M&A market for ecommerce has seen significant fluctuations, with a recent slowdown in activity due to economic factors.
Consumer products businesses that demonstrate revenue growth and profitability are more attractive to investors.
Understanding unit economics and cost of goods sold is crucial for business owners.
Key man risk and reliance on a single sales channel can deter potential buyers.
Preparation is essential for business owners looking to sell, including understanding financials and market positioning.
Engaging trusted advisors can help navigate the complexities of selling a business.
Diversification in supply chain and sales channels reduces perceived risk for buyers.
Effective marketing strategies are vital for customer acquisition and business growth.
Selling a business is a team effort, and having the right support can lead to better outcomes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ecommerce M&A
02:39 Josh Robbins' Ecommerce Journey
05:40 The Evolution of M&A in Ecommerce
08:45 Current Trends in Consumer Products
E10: How to Choose the Right IMS for Your Ecommerce Business
Épisode 10
mercredi 5 mars 2025 • Durée 51:59
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Scott Scharf discuss the critical aspects of selecting and implementing an inventory management system for ecommerce businesses. They explore the importance of inventory management as a key asset, the methodology for selecting the right system, and the expectations for implementation timelines.
The conversation also covers when to consider an inventory management system, the differences between ERPs and inventory management systems, and the necessity of documenting processes for successful implementation.
Takeaways
Inventory is often the biggest asset in consumer product businesses.
Many entrepreneurs struggle with inventory management due to reliance on spreadsheets.
Selecting an inventory management system requires a clear understanding of business needs.
Demos should focus on specific processes relevant to the business.
Implementation of inventory systems often requires external expertise.
Budgeting for implementation costs is crucial for success.
Hiring an operations manager can significantly improve system adoption.
Pain points in inventory management often indicate the need for a new system.
Trusting but verifying your 3PL is essential for accurate inventory tracking.
Documenting processes ensures consistency and efficiency in operations.
Sound Bites
"Trust but verify your 3PL."
"Hire someone to help you with this."
E9: Why Inventory Accounting is So Hard (but SO IMPORTANT) for Ecommerce Brands
Épisode 9
mercredi 26 février 2025 • Durée 49:22
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Brittany Brown delve into the complexities of inventory accounting and its critical role in financial management for ecommerce businesses. They discuss the challenges of accurately tracking inventory, the importance of accrual accounting, and the implications of Cost of Goods Sold on financial statements.
The conversation highlights the necessity of operational maturity, understanding landed costs, and adhering to GAAP standards to ensure accurate financial reporting and profitability analysis. Brittany emphasizes that successful inventory management is not just about accounting but also about engaging in the operational processes that affect financial outcomes.
Takeaways
Inventory accounting is crucial for understanding financial health.
Operational maturity is essential for accurate financial reporting.
Accrual accounting provides a clearer picture of profitability.
Cost of Goods Sold impacts both the balance sheet and profit and loss statements.
Engagement in inventory management processes is key to success.
Landed costs must be considered for accurate product valuation.
GAAP standards ensure consistency in financial reporting.
Understanding gross profit margins is vital for business sustainability.
Accurate inventory accounting can prevent financial losses.
Collaboration between accountants and business owners is necessary for success.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Inventory Accounting Challenges
05:13 Understanding the Flow of Inventory Accounting
E8: How to Calculate the Impact of Tariffs on Your Profitability
Épisode 8
mercredi 19 février 2025 • Durée 36:21
Summary
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Kelley Birrell discuss the financial implications of tariffs on businesses, particularly in the ecommerce sector. They explore how tariffs affect cost structures, profitability, and pricing strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding customs value and elasticity of demand.
The conversation also covers potential strategies for managing increased costs, including supply chain adjustments and efficiency improvements, while providing insights into the current economic landscape for ecommerce businesses.
Tariffs are impacting businesses in real-time, requiring immediate decisions.
Understanding customs value is crucial for calculating tariff impacts.
Higher cost of goods sold leads to greater profitability challenges.
Elasticity of demand plays a significant role in pricing decisions.
Businesses must consider whether to absorb costs or pass them on to consumers.
American manufacturers may benefit from increased tariffs on imports.
Supply chain adjustments can be complex and time-consuming.
Efficiency improvements are essential for maintaining profitability.
Businesses need to scrutinize their spending more than ever due to rising costs.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact on Business
09:48 Strategies for Managing Increased Costs
20:22 Analyzing Price Elasticity and Consumer Behavior
E7: Tariffs 101
Épisode 7
mercredi 12 février 2025 • Durée 33:07
Summary
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Bryce Judy discuss the complexities of tariffs, particularly focusing on the de minimis rule and its implications for e-commerce businesses. They explore recent changes in tariff policies, the impact on dropshipping, and the importance of compliance and accurate classification in trade.
The conversation also covers duty drawbacks, customs processes, and best practices for importers navigating the evolving landscape of international trade.
Takeaways
The de minimis rule allows low-value shipments to enter duty-free.
Duty drawback allows importers to reclaim duties on exported goods.
Accurate classification is crucial to avoid fines and delays.
Customs value is determined by the retail value for formal entries.
Tariff engineering can help reduce tariff costs legally.
Working with customs experts can save money in the long run.
Misclassification can lead to severe penalties for businesses.
Ecommerce businesses must stay informed about tariff changes.
Navigating customs processes requires careful documentation and strategy.
Sound Bites
"This is a massive change for low value shipments."
"You can classify it yourself, but it's risky."
"Proceed with caution is probably the best advice."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tariffs and Tarifflo
02:50 Recent Changes in Tariff Regulations
E6: The Cost of Selling on Amazon in 2025
Épisode 6
mercredi 5 février 2025 • Durée 41:28
In this episode of The Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Liz Adamson discuss the evolving landscape of Amazon fees and the challenges sellers face in 2025. They explore the rising costs of advertising, the complexities of Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), and the impact of Chinese sellers on the marketplace.
Liz emphasizes the necessity of advertising for success on Amazon and the importance of building a strong brand to compete effectively. The conversation also touches on the implications of Amazon's fee structure and the strategies new sellers should adopt to thrive in this competitive environment.
Sound Bites
"If you're not advertising, you are losing sales."
"Amazon is a pay-to-play environment now."
"FBA is becoming harder and harder for sellers."
Takeaways
Amazon fees have increased significantly, now taking up to 60% of sales.
Advertising costs are rising due to increased competition and new ad products.
Sellers MUST invest in advertising to achieve visibility on Amazon.
FBA reimbursement changes could impact sellers' margins.
Sellers need to be aware of their fee structures to manage costs effectively.
The influx of Chinese sellers is reshaping the competitive landscape on Amazon.
Building a recognizable brand is crucial for long-term success.
New sellers should prepare for significant upfront investment in marketing.
Amazon's fee structure is under scrutiny due to antitrust concerns.
Sellers must adapt to changes in FBA policies and shipping requirements.
E5: Shopify Plus Sales Tax Changes & Deep Dive into Sales Tax Complexity
Épisode 5
mercredi 29 janvier 2025 • Durée 43:01
In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Mac Wright from Avalara discuss the upcoming changes to sales tax for Shopify Plus users. They delve into the complexities of sales tax calculation, the importance of understanding nexus, and the registration process for compliance.
Mac explains how Avalara's tax engine simplifies the sales tax process for ecommerce businesses, while also addressing the challenges posed by varying tax laws across states and countries. The conversation highlights the need for businesses to stay informed and compliant in an ever-evolving tax landscape.
Sound Bites
"Sales tax is a complex and annoying world."
"Nexus is your relationship with the state."
"You need to collect tax if you have nexus."
Takeaways
Avalara has been a leader in tax technology for over 20 years.
The relationship between Shopify and Avalara is changing with new tax solutions.
Businesses must migrate to new tax engines by April 30, 2025.
Sales tax is complex and requires understanding of nexus and registration.
Nexus determines a business's obligation to collect sales tax.
Collecting sales tax before registering can lead to complications.
Sales tax calculation involves where, who, and what.
Different customers may have different tax obligations.
VAT is a significant consideration for international sales.
Staying compliant with sales tax is crucial to avoid penalties.
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We are an ecommerce-specialized accounting firm, and we can handle all your numbers so you can focus on growing your business and preparing to get the best possible selling price for your business.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Inventory Management Systems
03:16 Challenges in Inventory Management
06:25 The Importance of Comprehensive Processes
09:23 Selecting the Right Inventory Management System
12:37 Methodology for Choosing an Inventory System
18:27 Implementation Expectations and Budgeting
25:56 Implementation Timeline and Feedback Mechanisms
31:52 The Role of Operations Management in E-commerce
37:15 Inventory Management Systems vs. 3PLs
39:01 Evaluating ERP Systems for E-commerce
47:41 Documenting Processes for Successful Implementation
