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Explore every episode of the podcast Keep Optimising

Dive into the complete episode list for Keep Optimising. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Google Ads: Optimizing Your Product Feed for Better Results with Meriem Nacer, 4M Digital14 Oct 202600:32:00

Meriem Nacer has over 15 years’ experience in performance marketing, helping business around the world scale with smart, data-led strategies across Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, Meta Ads and beyond. Since 2019 she’s done all this via her consultancy 4M Digital, and Meriem is also the founder of the Don’t Panic PPC global community.

In this episode, Meriem shares how to optimise your Google Ads product feed, from getting the basics right to making better use of product titles, descriptions, categories, product types and custom labels. She also explains how to test feed changes and future-proof your product data for the growing role of AI.

Dive in:

[04:27] Challenges of optimizing product feeds

[08:58] Improving product title SEO

[10:31] Optimizing product listings

[14:24] SEO and PPC team collaboration

[16:38] Using custom labels in Google Ads

[19:55] Optimizing Google Ads feeds

[24:22] Insider Tips from Meriem!

Treat Your Product Feed as a Marketing Asset

Your product feed is much more than a technical link to Google Merchant Center. It can shape how Google understands and displays your products. Start by checking your titles, descriptions, images, categories, sizes, colors and key product details. Make sure the information reflects what your customers search for. A well-optimized feed can give your Google Ads campaigns better data to work with.

Optimize Product Data Around the Customer

Feed optimization should focus on what shoppers need to know, not what the internal brand team wants to see. Put the most useful product information early in your titles and avoid wasting valuable space on details customers already know. Use product types and custom labels to add useful context, such as seasonal terms, categories, promotions or profit margins. Also fix important information on your website where possible rather than relying on feed rules to patch gaps. The goal is to make your product data clearer, richer and more relevant across your marketing channels.

Keep Testing and Improving Your Feed

Product feed optimization is not a one-time task. Start with the basics, then test changes to titles, product types, descriptions and other fields. Meriem recommends making changes to a smaller group of relevant products and monitoring what happens before rolling them out more widely. Always consider seasonality when choosing products for a test, as your best sellers can change throughout the year. Keep reviewing your feed for missing information too, especially as Google and AI-driven shopping experiences demand richer product data.

Takeaways:

  • Data tells a story, but it can't truly know your customer. Blend AI insights with human understanding to get to the heart of customer motivation. Only then can brands create meaningful, resonant experiences.
  • Plug-and-play tools may be tempting, but personalization and optimized detail help brands shine. Invest in thoughtful curation; your product feed is a voice, not just a data dump.
  • Collaboration between teams is culture in action. When SEO and PPC unite, the whole business benefits. True optimization happens when departments share knowledge and build together.
  • Technology evolves, but the fundamentals remain: accuracy, creativity, and empathy. Strong product feeds start with getting the basics right – titles, images, and descriptions that truly serve the customer.
  • As AI advances, brands must future-proof by building rich, authentic data foundations. Let technology amplify what makes your brand unique, not replace the spark only humans can bring.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/322

Support our Sponsors >> Get your free Audit from Stellar Search >> https://keepopt.com/stellar 



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Google Ads: Review and Rebuild Your Strategy for Growth with Ger Hayden, Core Optimisation07 Oct 202600:31:27

Ger Hayden is the Chief Digital Officer at Core Optimisation and has been deep in Performance marketing for over a decade, and somehow also finds time to be a Digital Marketing Lecturer. Ger’s worked across various sectors and for many clients winning awards and frequently driving triple digital year on year growth.

In this episode, Ger and Chloe take a big-picture look at Google Ads and why now is the time to fully review your strategy. They explore how changes in the platform, customer search behaviour, data, creativity and AI should shape the way you approach Google Ads today.

Dive in:

[03:40] Copywriting in big corporations

[06:36] Google Ads and Analytics Changes

[12:51] Optimizing Google Ads with Data

[14:50] Optimizing PMax for Better Placements

[20:39] Attracting new eCommerce customers

[22:16] Evolving Strategies for Google Ads

[23:36] Insider Tips from Ger!

Start Your Google Ads Strategy with Your Customer, Not the Platform

Google Ads is still about reaching real people with real needs. Before changing campaigns, bidding or targeting, step back and look at how your customers search and buy. Search is becoming more conversational, with longer and more specific queries driven by tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini. This means your website, content and ads all need to answer customer questions at different stages of the journey. Use tools like Keyword Planner to understand what your customers are really looking for, rather than focusing only on clicks and CPCs.

Make Your Data Work for Your Business

Good Google Ads performance starts with good data. Your first-party customer data should be connected to Google Ads so the platform can optimise towards the customers and sales that matter most. Make sure your tracking, CRM data and commercial numbers are reliable before you start making strategic decisions. Ger also warns that a strong ROAS does not always mean your business is growing, as Google may be taking credit for sales that would have happened anyway. Look at Google Ads alongside your total revenue, new customer numbers, repeat purchases and other channels to understand the real impact.

Treat Google Ads as a Bigger Growth Channel

Google Ads is no longer just about keywords, bids and bottom-of-funnel sales. Performance Max can reach customers across Search, YouTube, Display, Discover and Google Maps, so eCommerce teams need to understand where their budget is going. Creative is also becoming more important as Google Ads moves closer to the way social and other media channels work. Keep reviewing your campaigns, creative, placements and goals instead of treating automated campaigns as a black box. As AI takes over more of the day-to-day optimisation, your biggest job will be setting the right strategy, data and business goals for it to work towards.

Takeaways:

  • Success in Google Ads isn’t just about data – it’s about people. Real ads connect with real needs. Insights start with understanding your audience, not just chasing numbers.
  • Your Google Ads strategy should evolve with your customers and technology. Always review your goals, data, and creative to stay ahead of the curve.
  • Don’t let automation make you forget creativity. As AI transforms Google Ads, creativity and compelling copy are now the real differentiators in performance marketing.
  • Attribution isn’t perfect – for true growth, track the full impact of your marketing. Focus on real commercial outcomes, not just channel metrics.
  • Small brands can be more agile in adopting new Google Ads strategies. Using great data and creative quickly is a unique competitive edge – don’t wait to innovate!


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/321

Support our Sponsors >> Get your free Audit from Stellar Search >> https://keepopt.com/stellar



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Google Ads: Turn Local Searches into Store Visits with Hannah Zora Strong, Zora Marketing30 Sep 202600:33:20

Hannah Zora Strong has spent the last 14 years managing and auditing 100s of Google Ads accounts, and regularly shares her expertise at many Google Ads conferences. She’s worked for some of the biggest agencies in the UK, and for the last 4 years has been running her own called Zora Marketing.

In this episode, Hannah takes us through how to use Google Ads for local advertising, from setting up your Google Business Profile and tracking store visits to using Performance Max and local inventory ads to drive more customers to your stores.

Dive in:

[05:39] Linking Google Business Profile and Ads

[07:41] GA4 and Business Profile merge

[12:07] Setting up local Google Ads

[13:39] Using Performance Max for ads

[17:50] Setting campaign goals and optimization

[21:27] Setting up local inventory ads

[24:28] Insider Tips from Hannah!

Connect Your Google Business Profile to Google Ads

If you have physical stores, your Google Business Profile is the starting point for local Google Ads. Make sure each location is owned, accurate, and linked to your Google Ads account. This lets you connect ad activity with actions such as store visits, calls, website clicks, and directions. It also gives you a stronger foundation for local SEO and reporting.

Use Performance Max and Local Inventory to Reach Nearby Shoppers

Performance Max can help retailers put their products and physical stores in front of local shoppers across Google, including Google Maps. Local inventory ads take this further by showing shoppers which products are available at a nearby store. Together, these tools can connect online product searches with store visits and click-and-collect sales. The key is to make sure your product, location, and stock data are accurate so Google has the right information to show shoppers.

Give Google the Right Data to Optimise Your Local Campaigns

Good local advertising depends on good conversion data. If you want Google to optimise for store visits as well as eCommerce sales, give those visits a realistic value based on your average order value and in-store conversion rate. Then keep reviewing performance by location and exclude areas that waste spend. Hannah's wider advice is to get conversion tracking right from day one, so Google's automated bidding has useful data to work with.

Takeaways:

  • Local stores can drive real-life footfall with Google Ads. Don’t overlook the power of linking your Google Business Profile for maximum impact and measurability. Your digital ads can truly bring customers to your door.
  • Conversion tracking is the backbone of effective Google Ads. Nail your set-up from day one, and watch as smart bidding optimizes for what really matters: actual results, not just clicks.
  • Performance Max campaigns are your secret weapon for local advertising. Appear on Maps, target people nearby, and drive in-store traffic with tailored offers and relevant ad copy.
  • Assigning value to store visits is crucial. Calculate your in-store conversion rate and average purchase, and Google Ads can optimize not just for clicks, but for walk-ins that truly matter.
  • Keep a close eye on your location and product data: exclude what isn’t working, double down where it is. Local marketing success is built on these continuous, intentional tweaks.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/320

Support our Sponsors >> Get your free Audit from Stellar Search >> https://keepopt.com/stellar



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Google Ads: Which New Features Should You Use (and Which Should You Skip)? with Jyll Saskin Gales, Inside Google Ads23 Sep 202600:37:43

Jyll Saskin Gales spent 6 years at Google helping their largest advertisers to grow internationally. Now she’s all about helping all of us to improve our Google Ads results via her coaching and courses, the “Inside Google Ads” Podcast AND her bestselling, book “Inside Google Ads: Everything you need to know about Audience Targeting”.

In this episode, Jyll cuts through the latest Google Ads updates, explaining which new features are worth using and which you can safely ignore. She also shares what advertisers should be doing now to prepare their campaigns for the holiday season.

Dive in:

[04:58] Explaining Google Shopping campaigns

[09:12] Explaining Smart Bidding Exploration

[11:17] Explaining Customer Lifecycle Goals

[13:17] Common Google Ads mistakes

[19:33] Google Merchant Center AI features

[23:11] Using AI for product photos

[25:49] Using YouTube for holiday campaigns

[29:52] Insider Tips from Jyll!

Focus on the Google Ads features that can improve holiday performance

Google is adding more bidding, targeting and automation features, but that does not mean every eCommerce business needs to use them. Jyll recommends starting with the features that solve a clear problem in the account. For example, Maximize Conversion Value can help Shopping campaigns focus on revenue rather than clicks, while Promotion Mode is designed to help campaigns respond to a sales period. The key is to choose features that match the business goal and the campaign stage. Don’t switch on new features simply because they are new.

Get your customer data and product feed right before relying on AI

Google’s newer features depend more than ever on good data. Customer Lifecycle Goals can help advertisers target new, existing and high-value customers, but only when the customer lists are set up correctly. Jyll also highlights the growing importance of the Merchant Center feed, with new product attributes helping Google understand and present products in more ways. This means eCommerce brands should review their customer lists and product data before the holiday rush. Better inputs give Google’s automation and AI a stronger foundation to work from.

Don’t chase every new AI feature

AI Max for Shopping, AI creative tools and new automated campaign features can open up new opportunities. But Jyll’s advice is not to adopt every feature just because it is available. AI Max for Shopping, for example, offers a middle ground between Standard Shopping and Performance Max for advertisers who want more automation. Google’s AI tools can also help smaller teams create backgrounds, scenes and video assets without relying on a large creative team. The best approach is to test the features that solve a real need, while keeping strong campaign structure, tracking and creative fundamentals in place.

Prepare for the holidays early and resist the urge to over-optimise

Holiday Google Ads success starts well before Black Friday. Jyll recommends having the holiday strategy locked by September and campaigns ready by October at the latest. eCommerce brands should plan beyond Black Friday and Cyber Monday, including December, post-Christmas and potentially January. She also warns against making constant changes in the name of optimisation, as too much testing can hurt performance. Plan early, give campaigns time to work and focus your changes on the things that can make a real difference.

Takeaways:

  • Ads don’t fix a bad offer – they amplify it. Before pouring budget into Google Ads, ensure your product has genuine demand and your website converts. Otherwise, it’s just burning money on more of the same.
  • AI is transforming Google Ads, but the basics still win. Solid campaign structure, tight conversion tracking, and a well-managed Merchant Center feed prepare you for every new algorithm or shiny update.
  • Creative in eCommerce isn’t just pretty images. Google now values videos, lifestyle shots, and even product Q&As. Feed your Merchant Center rich, diverse content to stand out in the age of AI shopping.
  • Build demand before you capture it. Don’t wait for Black Friday to launch ads; start video and demand gen campaigns months ahead. Warm audiences convert better and help sustain sales beyond peak season.
  • Resist the urge to optimize everything daily. Zoom out, do less, and focus on big strategic changes. Sometimes, the real magic comes from stepping back and letting strong fundamentals do their work.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/319

Support our Sponsors >> Get your free Audit from Stellar Search >> https://keepopt.com/stellar



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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CRO: Use AI to Improve eCommerce Conversion Rates with Elena Kostova, Uxify09 Sep 202600:30:55

Elena Kostova is head of marketing at Uxify, an AI-native digital experience platform that helps websites achieve flawless user experience and double engagement.

In this episode, Chloe and Elena explore where AI can genuinely improve eCommerce conversion rates, where human judgment still matters, and how brands can start using AI for CRO without risking their website or their brand.

Dive in:

[06:23] Balancing AI and human roles

[09:24] AI automation in eCommerce

[11:21] Analyzing user behavior data

[14:02] AI agents in CRO for small brands

[18:22] Changing AI and data trends

[22:36] Insider Tips from Elena!

Start with low-risk AI wins before automating everything

Elena’s biggest message was simple: start small. Measure a real problem before you use AI to fix it. Begin with tasks such as image optimization, site speed, or friction removal. These changes are low risk and easy to monitor. Once you see results, you can expand AI into more advanced CRO work.

Keep humans in control of branding and copy

AI is useful for optimization, but it should not define your brand. Elena warned that shoppers can often spot AI-generated copy and imagery. Generic content makes stores look similar and reduces differentiation. Your product story, tone of voice, and visual identity still need a human owner. Use AI as an assistant, not as the final decision-maker for brand experience.

AI changes CRO from periodic testing to continuous optimization

Traditional CRO often relies on planned A/B tests that run for weeks. Elena explained that AI agents can optimize parts of the customer journey in real time. They learn from browsing behavior and keep improving as more data arrives. This is especially valuable for smaller Shopify stores that do not have enough traffic for constant formal testing. eCommerce teams can spend less time on routine optimization and more time on strategic growth work.

Takeaways:

  • AI is everywhere, but real brand magic comes from genuine experiences and human stories. People can spot AI-made content a mile away. Authenticity is what wins hearts in the long run.
  • Letting AI handle routine tasks on your website unlocks time for your team to focus on creativity and brand building. Tech is powerful, but human touch defines the culture behind a business.
  • The future blends AI-driven personalisation with conversion optimisation. But when it comes to your story, keep a human in the driver’s seat. Your brand’s unique voice matters more than ever.
  • Optimising your user experience? Start small, measure everything, and use AI where it makes sense. Culture of experimentation leads to innovation, even with the help of advanced tech.
  • As digital spaces evolve, the most successful brands will be those who merge AI efficiency with soul. Tech is the engine; culture and story are the fuel. Never lose sight of what makes you distinct.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/318



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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CRO: Reduce Bounce Rates with Faster Site Speed with Jordy Scholing, RUMvision02 Sep 202600:32:08

Jordy Scholing is co-owner of RUMVision, where he and the team are obsessed with eCommerce site speed, especially all things Core Web Vitals. Trusted by over 750 companies including Loop Earplugs and Suzuki.

In this episode, Chloe and Jordy unpack how site speed affects bounce rates, SEO, and conversion rates – and why Core Web Vitals should be monitored continuously, not checked once and forgotten. They also share practical ways to turn performance data into actions that improve the customer experience and drive more sales.

Dive in:

[04:56] Improving website loading speed

[09:54] Web performance monitoring tools

[13:08] Audience differences in web traffic

[16:30] Importance of Core Web Vitals

[18:33] Optimizing website speed for users

[21:43] AI's impact on web layout shifts

[23:37] Insider Tips from Jordy!

Site speed is a conversion problem, not just a technical problem

Jordy explained that shoppers can leave a site in seconds if it feels slow. On mobile, it only takes one swipe to return to Google and choose a competitor. That means every extra second can hurt revenue. Fast landing pages are important, but the rest of the journey matters too. Product pages, carts, and checkout pages must all feel quick and responsive if you want to reduce bounce rates and increase sales.

Core Web Vitals should be monitored continuously

One of the biggest lessons in the episode was that Core Web Vitals are not fixed numbers. Performance changes based on the visitor’s device, internet connection, location, and browsing conditions. A campaign that attracts more users on cheaper smartphones can make your performance scores worse overnight. That is why Jordy recommends monitoring real user data regularly, not checking a score once a year. eCommerce teams should treat site speed like a live business metric and keep it on their dashboards.

Passing Core Web Vitals is only the starting point

Jordy made a useful distinction between SEO and CRO. For SEO, the goal is to pass Google’s Core Web Vitals thresholds. For CRO, the goal is to make the experience fast for as many customers as possible, including slower users. He suggested focusing on the slowest segment of visitors, because that is often where the biggest conversion gains are hidden. Small improvements add up, so teams should prioritize practical fixes, measure the impact, and keep optimizing over time.

Takeaways:

  • Did you know if your website takes over 3 seconds to load, half your visitors might leave? In our fast-paced digital world, user patience is lower than ever. Speed isn’t just tech – it’s part of your brand experience.
  • Core Web Vitals aren’t just numbers. They change depending on who visits your site, on what device, and from where. True digital culture means continuous improvement, not a one-time fix.
  • Focusing on the slowest 25% of your website users can yield bigger conversion gains than just optimizing for the majority. Serving everyone well is a mark of inclusive digital culture.
  • Speed and sustainability go hand-in-hand. Lighter websites use less energy and are more accessible to all users. Making your site faster isn’t just good business. It’s the responsible thing to do.
  • Web performance affects not only user experiences but also AI interactions. Building a better, faster site today means you’re ready for the next wave of digital culture: AI-powered browsing!


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/317



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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CRO: Turn Customer Behaviour Data into More Sales with Carolina Dibb, Carolina Dibb Consulting26 Aug 202600:31:54

Carolina Dibb set up her own CRO consultancy in 2023 after working with mega brands including Amazon, MR PORTER, and the British Museum Company. At her consultancy she help’s independent eCommerce brands understand customer behaviour and improve website performance through customer insight, analytics and optimisation strategy.

In this episode, Carolina explains how to move beyond surface-level metrics and use customer behaviour data to uncover what’s really stopping shoppers from converting. She shares a practical framework for identifying opportunities, prioritising changes, and making smarter optimisation decisions.

Dive in:

[05:38] Identifying and optimizing narratives

[07:22] Analyzing Metrics and Conversion Rates

[13:26] Optimizing eCommerce conversion rates

[14:24] Challenges of A/B testing in marketing

[19:29] Reviewing metrics for strategic focus

[21:44] Improving product setup processes

[25:27] Insider Tips from Carolina!

Let Customer Behaviour Data Lead Your CRO Strategy

The best CRO decisions start with data, not opinions. Carolina explains that many brands jump straight to solutions before understanding the real problem. Instead, look at your analytics, heatmaps, and customer feedback together to uncover the story behind the numbers. Break your data down by product, page, traffic source, or customer type to find patterns. When you understand how customers actually behave, you can focus your efforts where they will have the biggest impact.

Turn Metrics Into Actionable Insights

A conversion rate is just a number until you understand what is driving it. Carolina encourages brands to dig deeper instead of looking at overall performance alone. Find out where shoppers are dropping off and why. Someone who never adds to cart needs a different solution than someone who abandons checkout. Looking at customer behaviour in context helps you build stronger hypotheses and make smarter optimisation decisions.

Focus on Continuous Improvement, Not Perfect Testing

Not every website change needs a complex A/B test. Carolina says many proven best practices, like adding reviews or improving product descriptions, can simply be rolled out and monitored. The key is to make changes methodically and track what happens afterwards. Review your conversion data regularly and let it guide your next priority. CRO works best when it becomes an ongoing process of learning and improving, rather than a one-time project.

Takeaways:

  • Carolina urges us to let data guide website improvements. Stay curious, dig deeper into analytics, and keep an open mind about what really needs fixing in your business.
  • Heatmaps are an underrated superpower. They reveal how humans actually navigate your site, showing what gets noticed and what’s ignored. Observing real behavior builds empathy and sharper decisions.
  • Don’t get stuck chasing the one magic metric. Carolina recommends layering qualitative and quantitative insights. Pair stats with real customer feedback for that holistic, human-centered perspective.
  • Processes protect your learnings. Carolina stresses the value of repeatable SOPs for site changes so you don’t relearn the same things every year. Culture happens in the systems you create.
  • Culture of curiosity for the win. Keep asking, observing, and adjusting as the world changes. Making time for monthly reviews ensures brands grow with their ever-evolving customers.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/316



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
CRO: 5 Mistakes Quietly Killing Your eCommerce Conversion Rate with Ashu Dubey, Alhena AI19 Aug 202600:33:02

Ashu Dubey is CEO of Alhena AI, where they’re focused on reshaping the future of online shopping through AI innovation from AI Search engines through to every customer interaction. Clients include Victoria Beckham, dryrobe, Crocus, and Unilever Prestige.

In this episode, Ashu joins Chloe to break down the five conversion mistakes quietly costing eCommerce brands sales, from confusing product pages to underused AI tools. He shares practical fixes you can implement quickly to improve conversions, create a better shopping experience, and turn more visitors into buyers.

Dive in:

[05:10] AI personal shopping agents

[09:32] Designing Clear Website CTAs

[12:11] Improving chatbot engagement

[16:25] AI nudges for indecisive shoppers

[18:45] Improving social interaction in shopping

[20:57] Educating users on AI capabilities

[23:55] Insider Tips from Ashu!

[29:56] Episode sponsored by Alhena AI. Head to Alhena.ai https://alhena.ai/ to book a demo.

1. Making every CTA scream

Many eCommerce sites add too many bright buttons and promotional messages to the product page. These extra calls to action compete with the Add to Cart button. Shoppers get distracted and stop moving toward purchase. Ashu’s advice is simple: give each page one clear primary action. Every other button, banner, or tool should support that action, not fight with it.

2. Hiding your best sales associate in a chat bubble

Brands often invest in powerful AI tools and then hide them in a small chat icon. Most shoppers only use chat bubbles for support questions after a purchase. They rarely think to use them for product discovery. Ashu recommends placing AI prompts directly on product and category pages. Make help visible where shoppers are already making decisions.

3. Assuming shoppers know what they want

Filters and product grids work for confident buyers, but many visitors arrive unsure of what to choose. A good store associate asks questions and narrows the options. Ashu believes your website should do the same. Use AI or guided prompts to ask a few simple questions and recommend the best products. This reduces choice overload and helps shoppers buy faster.

4. Forgetting that shopping is social

Shopping is often a social activity, but most online stores treat it as a solo task. Customers want feedback from friends and family before they buy. Ashu suggests making products, outfits, and recommendations easy to share. A simple sharing flow can keep shoppers engaged with your site instead of sending them elsewhere. More social interaction can lead to more carts and more completed checkouts.

5. Assuming shoppers know what modern AI can do

Modern retail AI can recommend shades, build routines, suggest outfits, and answer complex product questions. Most customers do not know these features exist unless you tell them. Ashu says brands must actively explain AI capabilities within the shopping journey. Use clear prompts such as “Find my shade” or “Build my skincare routine.” When shoppers understand the value, they are far more likely to use the tool and convert.

Takeaways:

  • Shopping has always been social. Think friends, family, conversation. Why settle for a sterile online experience? Make your ecommerce journey more interactive, and watch both joy and conversions soar.
  • Hiding your AI assistant behind a bland chat bubble? Don’t! Put helpful, proactive tools front and center on your site. The best tech deserves a stage, not a corner.
  • Don’t assume customers know what they want. Online needs the same gentle guidance as in-store. Smart nudges and product suggestions rooted in real needs make shoppers feel understood.
  • Too many flashy CTAs? Simplify. Clarity creates confidence. When your site is clear and focused, customers can glide to checkout without distraction and love you for it.
  • AI is ready to do more than answer 'where’s my order?' Let shoppers know everything it can do: from finding a shade to styling a look. Educate, and your new tech becomes their favorite helper.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/315



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
CRO: Fix Your Trust Gaps to Increase Conversions with Rebecca Boyle, Lissah & Boyle12 Aug 202600:32:38

Rebecca Boyle is a brand strategist and fractional CMO at Lissah & Boyle.

In this episode, Rebecca explains how identifying and fixing trust gaps can dramatically improve your conversion rate. From creating a distinctive brand voice to using stronger social proof and customer research, she shares practical ways to build confidence and turn more visitors into customers.

Dive in:

[06:09] Using visuals for credibility

[09:42] Using a consistent brand voice

[13:28] Understanding Unique Selling Points

[17:09] Improving product testimonials and guarantees

[20:13] Connecting Emotion to Product Benefits

[22:09] Understanding Ideal Customer Profiles

[25:49] Insider Tips from Rebecca!

Trust is built long before the checkout

Many brands think about trust only at checkout. Rebecca explains that trust starts much earlier. Every touchpoint matters, from your social posts to your homepage and product pages. Small signals like clear messaging, testimonials, guarantees, and consistent branding all help customers feel confident. When shoppers trust your business at every stage, they are more likely to buy and less likely to compare you with competitors.

Differentiate your brand, not just your products

If your products are similar to everyone else's, your brand needs to stand out. Rebecca encourages businesses to focus on what makes them genuinely different. That could be your customer service, your personality, your expertise, or the experience you provide. Then make that difference visible in every piece of copy you write. A consistent brand voice helps customers remember you and gives them a reason to choose you over another store selling similar products.

Write for your customer, not your product

Product features are important, but they rarely close the sale on their own. Customers want to know how a product solves their problem or improves their life. Rebecca recommends talking to customers, reading reviews, and using forums like Reddit to understand the language they use. That research helps you write copy that feels relevant and relatable. The better you understand your audience, the easier it becomes to create product pages that convert.

Takeaways:

  • Consistent branding doesn't just attract customers; it helps recruit top talent. When your reputation stands out, people gravitate toward you, inside and outside your business. How are you building that recognition into your culture?
  • Differentiation isn't about being extraordinary. Sometimes, it's the small, authentic touches—amazing service, humor, true care—that make your brand memorable and trusted in a crowded marketplace.
  • Real trust comes from specifics. Generic testimonials and vague guarantees trigger doubt. Give tangible examples, clear promises, and authentic stories to bridge the trust gap with your audience.
  • To connect deeply, speak your customer's language. Research their hobbies, pain points, and daily routines, and tailor your messaging as if writing to a friend, not a faceless buyer. True relevance builds loyalty.
  • In a world flooded by AI and automation, human connection is your advantage. Let your authenticity and personality shine in every interaction. The future belongs to brands that feel real.


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Email: Improve Deliverability with a Smarter Lifecycle Strategy with Chintan Doshi, Mavlers29 Jul 202600:45:45

Chintan Doshi is Senior Director of Marketing Automation at Mavlers, a global email marketing and CRM agency with over 700 people across 52 countries. Day to day he works across multiple platforms including Salesforce Marketing Cloud, Braze, Klaviyo, and HubSpot, driving performance for global clients.

In this episode, Chintan explains why email deliverability is the result of a strong lifecycle strategy—not just technical setup. He shares practical advice on building customer trust, maintaining list health, and measuring the metrics that really drive long-term email performance.

Dive in:

[08:24] Impact of Email Deliverability Issues

[12:23] Building Email Inbox Trust

[15:11] Focusing on customer behavior signals

[18:47] Focusing on meaningful email metrics

[19:52] Analyzing email marketing metrics

[23:38] Email marketing frequency and list hygiene

[28:46] Importance of channel-specific consent

[32:15] Improving email engagement strategy

[33:35] Insider Tips from Chintan!

Episode sponsored by Mavlers. Book a meeting with the Mavlers team at https://www.mavlers.com/  

Treat Deliverability as a Business Strategy, Not a Technical Problem

Many brands think email deliverability is just about authentication and inbox placement. Chintan argues that it starts much earlier. It comes from sending relevant content to people who actually want to receive it. When subscribers engage with your emails, inbox providers reward your sender reputation. Better deliverability leads to more opens, more clicks, and ultimately more revenue.

Prioritize a Healthy Email List Over a Bigger One

A large email list is not always an advantage. Chintan recommends focusing on engaged subscribers instead of trying to email everyone. Make it easy for people to unsubscribe if they no longer want your emails. Regularly remove inactive contacts and run win-back campaigns before sunsetting them. A smaller, healthier list will outperform a large database filled with disengaged subscribers.

Measure Business Results, Not Vanity Metrics

Open rates are no longer the best way to judge email performance. Privacy changes have made them much less reliable. Instead, Chintan recommends tracking metrics like clicks, purchases, website activity, customer retention, and revenue per recipient. These metrics show how email contributes to real business growth. They also help you make smarter decisions about your lifecycle strategy and future campaigns.

Takeaways:

  • Email marketing success isn’t just about flashy campaigns; it’s about building trust. When subscribers feel valued and engaged, deliverability and revenue follow naturally. Focus on customer experience, not just the numbers.
  • Let unsubscribers go! Forcing engagement hurts reputation long-term. Easy exits show respect, keeping your list (and brand) healthy. Quality beats quantity always.
  • Privacy changes mean open rates are vanity metrics now. Actions—clicks, purchases, real engagement—are the new gold. Optimize for what your subscribers actually do, not just what they see.
  • A governance model in email isn’t boring; it’s essential. Clear ownership, frequency caps, and regular list hygiene protect both your brand and your customers. Proactivity wins over panic.
  • Before automating everything, nail your fundamentals: proper authentication, genuine consent, and transparent data practices. The boring stuff builds the foundation for creative, sustainable growth.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/313

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Email: Clean Your Email List to Improve Deliverability and Engagement with Nina De la Cruz, Getsitecontrol22 Jul 202600:25:11

Nina De la Cruz is one of the team at Getsitecontrol, an on-site engagement and email marketing platform used by 1,000s of eCommerce brands worldwide.

If your email performance has started to slip, your list could be the culprit. Nina reveals how better list hygiene can improve engagement, strengthen deliverability, and help you get more value from every email you send.

Dive in:

[04:51] Importance of cleaning email lists

[07:05] Email list cleaning steps

[11:48] Email list cleaning strategies

[14:44] Evaluating aggressive list growth strategies

[18:17] Insider Tips from Nina!

Treat Your Email List as an Asset, Not a Vanity Metric

Many brands focus on growing their email list as quickly as possible. Nina argues that list quality matters more than list size. A large list filled with inactive or disposable addresses will hurt your results. It can reduce engagement rates and damage your sender reputation. eCommerce brands should focus on attracting subscribers who genuinely want to hear from them and are likely to become customers.

Clean Your List Before Problems Affect Deliverability

Email list cleaning should happen before deliverability issues appear. Nina highlights three key moments to review list quality: during platform migrations, after aggressive list-building campaigns, and before re-engagement sends. These activities often introduce low-quality or inactive contacts into your database. Sending to those contacts can trigger spam filters and lower inbox placement rates. Regular list cleaning helps ensure your best customers continue receiving your emails.

Use Engagement Data to Protect Future Performance

Mailbox providers are paying more attention to how subscribers interact with your emails. If too many people ignore your messages, future campaigns may struggle to reach the inbox. That makes subscriber engagement a critical metric for every eCommerce marketer. Nina recommends automating re-engagement campaigns and removing contacts who no longer interact with your brand. A smaller but highly engaged audience will often generate better results than a much larger inactive list.

Takeaways:

  • Rethink your email list: it’s not just a number, it’s an audience you’re responsible for. Focus on building genuine relationships, not just growing for growth’s sake. Real engagement beats noise every time.
  • Email deliverability isn’t just technical; marketers have more control than they think. Cleaning your list regularly helps boost reputation and ensures your messages reach actual people, not empty inboxes.
  • Removing disengaged and invalid contacts is crucial. Don’t pay for contacts who don’t care, and protect your sender reputation by keeping your list healthy. Quality over quantity wins in the inbox.
  • Big campaigns? Always clean your list. Whether you’re migrating to a new platform, running giveaways, or reactivating dormant lists, start with quality data so you don’t damage your sender reputation.
  • Automate your list hygiene: use double opt-in, re-engagement campaigns, and quality checkers. The cleaner your data, the better your results, and the truer your email stats and campaign insights.


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Email: 4 Ways to Improve Your Popups with Taras Talimonchuk, Claspo15 Jul 202600:32:31

Taras Talimonchuk is the CMO at Claspo, experts in popups for both email sign ups and CRO. As well as providing excellent popup software (we use it ourselves on the Keep Optimising and other websites!) they also do a TON of research into what’s working.

If your popup strategy begins and ends with "10% off for your email address," this episode will give you a lot to think about. Taras reveals how leading brands are using segmentation, personalization, and gamification to turn more website visitors into loyal subscribers and customers.

Dive in:

[06:20] Identifying buyer journey stages

[08:13] Tailored customer pop-up strategies

[10:49] Optimizing pop-up marketing tactics

[14:45] Implementing Spam Prevention Checks

[17:44] Testing email gate strategies

[23:01] Cart recovery strategies

[25:06] Discussing popup strategies

[25:36] Insider Tips from Taras!

1 - Improve How You Deploy Your Popups

Most brands still show the same popup to every visitor. Taras argues that this approach leaves money on the table. Instead, tailor your popups based on who the visitor is, where they came from, and where they are in their buying journey. A first-time visitor from Google may need education or a quiz, while a returning visitor may respond better to an offer. The more relevant the popup, the more likely it is to convert the right people into subscribers and customers.

2 - Focus on Data Quality, Not Just List Growth

A bigger email list is not always a better email list. Bots and fake signups can damage your sender reputation and hurt deliverability. That means your emails may stop reaching genuine customers. Taras recommends validating email addresses before they enter your ESP and regularly reviewing signup quality. Clean data leads to better engagement, better deliverability, and more revenue from email marketing.

3 - Use Gamification the Right Way

Gamified popups can drive excellent results when they are simple and fair. Many brands make the mistake of hiding rewards behind an email gate or creating games that feel rigged. Instead, let visitors play first and reveal the reward before asking for an email address. This creates trust and improves the overall experience. Make sure the game fits your brand and feels like a natural part of the customer journey.

4 - Personalize the Popup Experience

Personalization should start before someone joins your email list. Taras shared examples such as showing cart contents in an exit popup or tailoring popup copy to the keyword that brought the visitor to your site. These small touches make the experience feel more relevant and helpful. Visitors are more likely to engage when the message matches their intent. Better relevance usually leads to higher conversion rates and stronger long-term customer value.

Takeaways:

  • Pop ups aren’t just tools for quick wins. Rethink them as the first step in building lasting customer relationships, not just collecting email addresses for a single blast. Start with connection, not the discount.
  • Why offer the same pop up to everyone? Personalized triggers—based on journey, source, and behavior—are key. One size does not fit all in a world of nuanced online experiences.
  • Beware the “discount hunter” list. Taras highlights the power of attracting subscribers genuinely interested in your brand journey, not just one-off deals. Loyalty starts at first contact.
  • Gamification works when it’s fair and fun. Avoid games that feel rigged. Reward honestly and let them play first, then ask for emails. Trust is everything in digital experiences.
  • Data hygiene matters. Pop ups can attract bots, polluting your email base. Filtering for quality leads protects your brand’s reputation and improves results. Think clean from the start.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/311

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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Email: How to Build a B2B eCommerce Email Strategy That Drives More Sales with Kyler Nixon, Forward Studios08 Jul 202600:37:12

Kyler Nixon is the co-founder of Forward Studios, and host of the Darn Good Distributors podcast. And he’s all about B2B eCommerce. Especially how to use email marketing to grow B2B eCommerce sales.

From intent-based segmentation and plain-text campaigns to smarter abandoned cart flows and email deliverability, Kyler shares a refreshingly simple approach to B2B eCommerce email marketing. If you're selling to businesses, there's plenty here to help you generate more revenue from email.

Dive in:

[06:25] Working with distributors online

[11:46] Segmenting for purchase readiness

[13:53] Identifying High-Intent Customers

[18:21] B2B sales strategies without discounts

[19:17] Challenges in B2B marketing

[22:48] Engaging email marketing results

[27:03] Insider Tips from Kyler!

Segment Customers by Buying Intent, Not Email Engagement

One of Kyler's biggest lessons is that B2B buyers should be segmented based on buying intent rather than email engagement. A customer who opens every email is not necessarily ready to place an order. Instead, look for signals like product views, quote requests, repeat visits, or items added to a cart. These actions tell you who is actively in the market. For eCommerce brands, this means sending more sales-focused emails to high-intent customers while nurturing everyone else until they are ready to buy.

Simple Emails Often Outperform Beautiful Ones

Many eCommerce teams spend hours designing complex email campaigns. Kyler argues that B2B buyers want something much simpler. His best-performing emails are often plain text, under 100 words, and contain just one link. Busy buyers do not want to scroll through a digital catalogue. They want a clear message that helps them solve a problem or place an order quickly. Even DTC brands can learn from this by testing simpler emails that focus on action rather than design.

Stop Relying on Discounts to Drive Sales

Discounts are a common tool in eCommerce, but Kyler believes they are often less effective in B2B. Business buyers care more about convenience, speed, availability, and reliability than saving a small percentage on an order. Instead of offering discounts, highlight the benefits that make buying easier. This could be fast shipping, expert support, in-stock products, or flexible payment terms. The lesson for eCommerce operators is clear: focus your marketing on the value you provide, not just the price you charge.

Takeaways:

  • B2B email marketing isn’t about flashy designs. It’s about real, human connections. Authentic, text-based emails, sent at the right moment, build trust and keep your brand top of mind where it matters most.
  • Instead of blasting everyone, segment your B2B email list by buyer intent. Engaged now? Get targeted info. Not ready to buy? Value and nurture them. Culture thrives when you respect where people are on their journey.
  • Ditch the discount culture in B2B. True value is in speed, expertise, and relationship—not a coupon code. The most loyal customers remember how you help their business, not the last promo you sent.
  • Business buyers are people, too. Every email is H2H: human to human. Prioritize relevant, concise messages that speak directly to their needs, not corporate jargon or mass mailouts.
  • The future of email is more human, not more AI. As spam filters tighten, the emails that will stand out aren’t the most automated; they’re the most personal and genuinely helpful.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/310

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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Email: How to Find Endless Newsletter Content Ideas with Kate Hammond, Sunbeam Marketing01 Jul 202600:29:51

Kate Hammond has been delivering CRM strategies in global markets since 2009. Specialising in DTC growth, mainly on Klaviyo and Ometria, via her agency Sunbeam Marketing she helps brands like Rani & Co, Noble Panacea, and Saira to build out their email marketing driving loyalty and retention.

Tune in to discover Kate's framework for generating endless newsletter ideas, creating more relevant email content, and building stronger customer relationships. Plus, she shares her advice on email frequency, content planning, and the role of automated flows in driving revenue.

Dive in:

[04:35] Startup experience and strategic growth

[08:40] Shifting mindset to customer needs

[12:32] Highlighting product uniqueness

[15:48] Analyzing seasonal market trends

[18:57] Nurturing email lists effectively

[21:50] Insider Tips from Kate!

Stop Thinking About What You Sell and Start Thinking About Why Customers Buy

One of Kate's biggest lessons is that great email content starts with customer motivation. Many brands focus their newsletters on products, categories, and promotions. But customers care more about the problems those products solve. Instead of sending an email about dresses, send one about wedding season, holiday packing, or finding an outfit for a special event. When you focus on why people buy, you unlock far more content ideas and create emails that feel more relevant and useful.

Build Your Newsletter Strategy Around Content Buckets

When you're struggling for ideas, having a content framework makes planning much easier. Kate recommends creating content buckets such as educational content, seasonal topics, brand stories, product spotlights, customer reviews, and promotional campaigns. This approach helps you avoid sending the same type of email over and over again. It also creates a more balanced experience for subscribers. For eCommerce brands with a small product range, content buckets are a simple way to keep newsletters fresh without constantly launching new products.

Focus on Quality and Relevance, Not Email Volume

There is no perfect number of emails to send each week. The right frequency depends on how your audience responds and what your team can realistically produce. Kate advises brands to monitor engagement, clicks, website visits, and unsubscribe rates rather than following industry benchmarks. Sending more emails only works if the content remains valuable and well executed. For most eCommerce teams, a smaller number of high-quality emails will outperform a larger number of rushed campaigns.

Takeaways:

  • Struggling for email content? Shift from "what we sell" to "why customers buy." Focus on solving their problems and you’ll unlock stories that resonate and connect deeply.
  • Don’t let a small SKU list stop you. Mix up your emails: educational tips, founder stories, seasonal content, and customer spotlights keep your brand fresh and engaging.
  • Speak to your customers often—surveys and calls reveal the real reasons they buy. Let their stories inspire your next great campaign and stand out from the crowd.
  • Quality over quantity: send emails as long as subscribers engage, but don’t burn out your team. Refresh your email mix, test themes, and let results guide your cadence.
  • Email is just one touchpoint—sync your messaging across social, SMS, and even packaging for a seamless brand experience your customers remember.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/309

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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Meta Ads: 6 Creative Myths Busted with Aggie Meroni, White Bee Digital17 Jun 202600:45:56

Aggie Meroni is the founder and CEO of White Bee Digital, a paid social agency supporting eCommerce businesses as they scale. AND the author of the Amazon best seller book “Crack The Code: The Strategic Meta Ads Framework To Scale Your eCommerce Brand”.

Returning guest Aggie joins Chloe to separate fact from fiction in the world of Meta Ads. Together, they unpack six common creative myths and reveal the strategies helping eCommerce brands get better results from their ad spend in 2026.

Dive in:

[09:45] Focusing on eCommerce fundamentals

[11:31] Understanding ad volume based on budget

[14:51] Building a creative system

[17:25] Challenges using AI for ad creation

[22:22] Using AI in marketing content

[24:40] Using AI for ad video snippets

[26:41] Testing ad angles effectively

[31:50] Importance of video in advertising

[34:05] Managing Meta ads for clients

[36:58] Insider Tips from Aggie!

Myth #1: If Your Ads Aren’t Working, You Have a Creative Problem

Many brands assume poor results mean their ads are bad. Aggie says that is often not true. Creative is important, but it is only one part of the equation. A weak website, a poor offer, or incorrect profitability targets can all hurt performance. Before blaming your ads, make sure the rest of your marketing and eCommerce setup is working properly.

Myth #2: You Need to Test 50 Creatives a Week

This advice gets repeated a lot, but it lacks context. Brands with massive budgets may need a high volume of creatives. Smaller brands usually do not. Aggie says the focus should be on creating the right ads, not the most ads. A clear creative system will outperform random volume every time.

Myth #3: AI-Generated Creatives Are a Quick Fix

AI can help speed up parts of the creative process, but it is not a complete solution. It still needs direction, strategy, and human oversight. Most AI-generated ads require editing before they are ready to use. Brands that expect AI to do everything often end up frustrated. The best results come when AI supports a strong creative strategy rather than replacing it.

Myth #4: Real UGC Is Dead Because AI UGC Is Cheaper

Aggie believes authentic content is becoming more valuable, not less. Consumers want to see real people using real products. They are becoming better at spotting content that feels fake or overly polished. When trust is lost, performance often suffers too. Brands should continue investing in genuine creators who can produce believable and relatable content.

Myth #5: Creative Volume Matters More Than Creative Quality

Producing hundreds of ads means very little if they all say the same thing. Aggie shared examples of brands creating large numbers of creatives without improving results. The problem was not the volume. The problem was the lack of meaningful testing. Strong creative strategy focuses on different messages, angles, and customer motivations. Quality insights will always beat quantity alone.

Myth #6: Static Ads Are the Only Way to Test Messaging at Scale

Some marketers believe static images are the fastest way to test new ideas. While static ads are quick to produce, they are not always the best format. Certain messages are easier to explain through video. Product demonstrations, founder stories, and unboxing experiences often perform better in motion. Brands should test the format that best communicates the message, not default to static ads every time.

Takeaways:

  • In the AI age, consumers crave authenticity. It’s not about glossy influencers, but real people sharing real stories, even if it’s in sweatpants with morning coffee. Allocate your marketing to genuine voices. Connection wins hearts.
  • Chasing 50 ad creatives a week? The real win is building a repeatable creative system. Focus on deep research and intentional messaging, not just high volume. Quality, tested angles beat quantity every time.
  • AI tools are everywhere, but they’re not a magic wand for ad creatives. Mixing quick AI-made content with human input works, but real insight, strategy, and brand depth still need a personal touch.
  • Real user-generated content is thriving, not dying. People respond to honest, unpolished moments—think a gym selfie or coffee run—over AI-generated perfection. Brands gain trust through relatable stories, not scripts.
  • Who owns creative? Top-performing brands don’t silo strategy or creation. Agencies and brands must collaborate on research and messaging for ads that truly resonate and reflect authentic culture.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/308



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Meta Ads: Drive More Sales Using Partnership Ads with Christina Bell, Webtopia10 Jun 202600:36:29

Christina Bell is the Head of Strategy at Webtopia UK, a performance marketing agency focused on helping high-growth, founder-led DTC brands scale with data, testing, and storytelling.

In this episode, we explore how eCommerce brands can use Meta partnership ads to improve ROAS, reduce ad costs, and build more effective creator-led campaigns. Christina shares practical strategies for testing, optimisation, and preparing your Meta ads strategy for peak sales periods.

Dive in:

[04:54] Explaining partnership ads on Meta

[08:27] Making advertising simple for everyone

[09:56] Testing and integrating partnership ads

[15:24] Partnering with content creators

[16:41] Collaborations with Social Media Influencers

[21:30] Understanding Customer Profiles

[24:17] Optimal initial ad spend percentage

[28:16] Insider Tips from Christina!

[32:18] Episode sponsored by Webtopia. Get in touch with Team Webtopia for your free growth audit.

Partnership ads work best when you test early and test often

One of the biggest lessons from this episode is that partnership ads are not a quick win. They need time and structured testing. Too many brands try one creator, see mixed results, and stop too soon. Christina explains that success comes from testing multiple creators, hooks, and messaging angles over several months. For eCommerce brands, this matters because consistent testing helps you find the creative combinations that will scale when competition gets more expensive.

Know your customer before you build your campaigns

Strong Meta ad performance starts with customer understanding. Christina stresses that brands must know who they are selling to, why people buy, and what motivates action. This insight shapes everything from creator selection to ad messaging and creative hooks. If your customer insight is weak, your partnership ads will feel generic and underperform. For practitioners, this is a reminder that better audience research often beats more ad spend.

Set a realistic test budget and commit to proper testing

Partnership ads need enough budget to produce clear results. Christina warns against testing one creator with a small spend and then deciding the strategy does not work. Brands should budget to test several creators, different hooks, and multiple creative angles over a few months. This gives Meta enough data to optimise and gives your team real insight into what performs best. For eCommerce operators, the goal is not to find instant wins, but to gather enough learning to scale with confidence.

Takeaways:

  • Meta’s partnership ads blend brand and creator voices for more authentic marketing. As Christina explained, it’s about trust and relatability. People connect better with people, not just logos.
  • Don’t script your creators—guide them! Genuine storytelling wins over robotic scripts. Christina says the best results come when creators bring their own flair and honesty to brand messages.
  • Diversity is key: test partnership ads with a variety of creators and campaign goals. As Christina shared, mixing different voices alongside your usual content expands reach and connection.
  • Culture in marketing? Know your customer, deeply. Christina reminds us: understanding motivations and context shapes messaging that resonates. This is essential for creative partnerships.
  • Teams and founders can be creators too. Christina encourages brands to feature real employees. Your workplace culture is a huge asset for authentic content on Meta’s partnership ads.


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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Meta Ads: Optimising Hook Rates for Higher ROAS with Komal Singh & Prudhvi Raj, 4XDigital AI03 Jun 202600:34:49

Komal Singh is the founder and CEO & Prudhvi Raj is the Director of Customer Success at 4XDigital AI an AI-powered advertising system that plans, launches, and continuously improves your ad campaigns as you grow. 

Returning guest Komal is back on the podcast alongside Prudhvi to break down one of the most important — and most overlooked — Meta Ads metrics: hook rates and hold rates. In this episode, they explain how eCommerce brands can optimise video creative to stop the scroll, hold attention, and improve overall Meta Ads performance. 

Dive in: 

[05:28] Evaluating creative quality in ads 

[07:37] Understanding hook rate in ads 

[11:25] Importance of engaging early viewers 

[14:05] Balancing the hook and hold rate 

[18:39] Importance of consistent messaging 

[20:51] The downside of clickbait strategies 

[23:49] The pitfalls of using clickbait 

[26:46] Insider Tips from Komal and Prudhvi!  

Your first three seconds decide if your Meta Ad works 

Komal and Prudhvi explain that the “hook” is the most important part of a video ad. If shoppers do not stop scrolling in the first three seconds, the rest of the ad does not matter. That is why tracking hook rate is so important. It shows how many people actually paused to watch your content. For ecommerce brands spending heavily on Meta Ads, improving the hook can quickly lower wasted ad spend and improve overall campaign performance. 

Good creative is not enough if the rest of the funnel fails 

The episode highlights that Meta Ads performance should be measured across the full funnel. A strong hook and high hold rate will not save a weak landing page or a poor checkout experience. The guests explain that brands need to look at every stage, from video engagement to clicks, conversions, and checkout completion. This helps ecommerce teams spot exactly where customers are dropping off. Instead of guessing what is wrong, brands can make smarter improvements based on real data. 

Clickbait hooks can damage your brand and your ROAS 

One of the strongest warnings in the episode is about using misleading hooks. A dramatic opening may improve hook rate, but it can hurt conversions if the rest of the ad does not deliver on the promise. Shoppers will leave quickly if they feel tricked. That sends low-quality traffic into your funnel and hurts your return on ad spend. The key lesson for ecommerce marketers is to create attention-grabbing ads that still feel honest, relevant, and aligned with the product experience. 

Takeaways: 

  • Great creative is at the heart of Meta ad success. Your hook—the first 3 seconds—can make or break your campaign. Captivate quickly, or you’ll lose 70% of viewers before the message lands. 
  • Tracking hook rate isn’t just a metric. It’s a mirror reflecting your video’s true impact. If your hook rate is below 25%, it’s time for a rethink before investing further in ads. 
  • Beware clickbait hooks. Viewers who feel misled rarely come back. Build trust by delivering on your promises. Engage, then follow through with true value in your content and landing pages. 
  • Adapt your visuals and messaging to fit the native style of each platform. Reels, Stories, and Shorts have their own rhythms. Be relevant to where your viewers already are. 
  • The video ad journey is a funnel. A strong start pulls people in, but holding attention and driving meaningful action requires every moment—hook, hold, and CTA—to work together. Optimise each step. 

 

Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/306



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Meta Ads: What to Do at Every Stage of eCommerce Growth with Kathie Feng, Signal Growth27 May 202600:30:33

Kathie Feng is the founder and growth architect at Signal Growth, and has recently started as Director of Omnichannel Digital Marketing at Footlocker. She has over 13 years experience at the cutting edge of customer acquisition across all sizes of eCommerce store.

In this episode, Kathie explains how to approach Meta ads at different stages of growth, from early testing to serious scale. She shares practical advice on when to test, when to increase spend, and the common mistakes that can quietly hold back eCommerce growth.

Dive in:

[05:25] Testing Meta ads and best practices

[08:52] Scaling through testing and learning

[12:34] Testing strategies after growth

[16:01] Meta ads misconceptions for beginners

[19:42] Analyzing consumers and optimizing ads

[20:46] Optimizing ad campaigns strategically

[23:30] Insider Tips from Kathie!

Get your foundations right before you scale

Meta ads work best when the basics are already clear. Kathie Feng calls this the “winning triangle”: product, audience, and offer. eCommerce brands need to know exactly who they are selling to and why that customer should care. If the product-market fit is weak, more ad spend will only waste money faster. Before pushing budget up, make sure the product solves a real problem and the offer feels easy to say yes to.

Use early-stage ad spend to learn, not just to sell

In the early growth stage, small budgets should buy insights first. Instead of trying to scale too fast, use those first campaigns to test one thing at a time. Try different hooks, audiences, creative formats, or offers. This makes it much easier to see what actually moves performance. For eCommerce teams, this approach reduces risk and helps build a much stronger base before larger spending starts.

Creative is the lever that matters most as you grow

As competition increases, better creative often matters more than more targeting. Kathie stresses that the first two seconds are critical because shoppers decide very fast whether to keep watching. Your ad needs to show what the product is, why it matters, and why the viewer should stop scrolling. Brands that win on Meta usually refresh creative often and keep testing new messages. For eCommerce owners, strong creative is often the fastest way to improve click-through rate, lower acquisition costs, and unlock the next stage of growth.

Takeaways:

  • Capturing attention is an art—your hook must shine in the first two seconds. Every scroll is a chance to connect, so clarify what you offer and why it matters, instantly.
  • Your product, market fit, and pricing form the foundation for growth. Before scaling ads, make sure your offer truly resonates with people who will love your product, not just like it.
  • Testing is not just for the start—continuous test and learn is essential as you scale. Consumer needs shift fast; adapt your messaging and creative to stay relevant and drive results.
  • Blind spot: Meta ads aren’t “set and forget.” Success means digging into creative, analytics, and audience insights daily. Leverage numbers, not just intuition, to guide your moves.
  • AI is re-shaping how we optimize and scale. Embrace the tools, but stay focused on human insights—knowing your audience at a deep level will always be your competitive advantage.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/305



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Meta Ads: Leverage UCP and First-Party Data for Meta Ads Success with Yiqi Wu, Aimerce20 May 202600:36:47

Yiqi Wu is the founder and CEO of Aimerce, a next-gen platform to empower long-lasting relationships with customers by putting you in control of your first party data.

Yiqi is a returning guest, and this time she dives into how to use first-party data, tracking, and catalogue optimisation to improve targeting, reduce CAC, and future-proof your Meta Ads strategy.

Dive in:

[05:29] Improving eCommerce sales funnel

[08:43] Understanding click ID tracking

[13:00] Discussing data collection challenges

[14:29] Tracking visitors with first-party cookies

[19:06] Understanding first-party data types

[20:04] Shopify's public catalog API & UPC Universal Commerce Protocol

[23:21] AI traffic potential in 5 years

[28:11] Understanding customer insights for marketing

[29:13] Insider Tips from Yiqi!

Episode sponsored by Aimerce. Find out more Inside DTC Marketing Tech https://www.aimerce.ai/blogs?utm_source=keep_optimizing_podcast

First-party data is now your biggest competitive advantage

First-party data is no longer optional for eCommerce brands. It is the foundation of high-performing Meta Ads. Yiqi explains that the most valuable data points are email and click ID. These help Meta understand who is taking action on your site. Without this, the algorithm cannot optimize properly. Brands that collect and connect this data well will see better targeting, lower CAC, and stronger results.

Tracking is broken unless you take control of it

Relying on basic pixel setups is no longer enough. Privacy changes and cookie limits mean platforms cannot track users like they used to. You need to collect and send your own data using first-party tracking. This allows you to track users for longer and with more accuracy. It also improves attribution across Meta, Google, and email. If your tracking is weak, your decisions and ad performance will suffer.

Your product data will shape your future visibility

AI is changing how customers discover products. Tools like AI agents are starting to pull from structured product data, not just web pages. This means your catalog metadata now matters more than ever. Titles, descriptions, and attributes all impact how your products are found and ranked. Many brands ignore this backend data, which creates an opportunity for those who optimize it. Clean, detailed product data will help you win more traffic in the AI-driven future.

Takeaways:

  • If you know your customers better than anyone else, you gain a powerful edge. It’s not just the data, but what you do with it. Target smarter, speak their language, and build real connections.
  • Sending rich first-party data into platforms like Meta or Google isn’t an option anymore; it’s a must. Email and click ID are your keys to unlock lower CAC and higher performance.
  • Don’t wait for checkout to grab those valuable emails. Popups and quizzes turn browsers into known contacts, letting you personalize every step and fuel smarter marketing.
  • Your product catalog isn’t just inventory – it’s data gold. With AI emerging and APIs opening up, refining product metadata is the new SEO for discovery and sales.
  • The future is all about actionable insights. AI will soon suggest your next move, detect patterns you missed, and drive results faster. Start collecting and cleaning your data today.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/304



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Growth: Turn Reddit into a Powerful eCommerce Growth Channel (and Win AI Search) with Danny Kirk, ReddiReach06 May 202600:31:36

Danny Kirk is founder of ReddiReach, where he’s worked with over 250 eCommerce brands to help them use Reddit as part of their marketing activity.

In this episode, Danny explains why Reddit is becoming a critical channel for influencing AI search results and brand discovery. He also shares practical strategies for building trust, driving traffic, and growing your eCommerce brand through authentic community engagement.

Dive in:

[06:24] Early days of AI branding

[08:32] Using Reddit for brand growth

[10:35] Sticking to ethical marketing

[14:52] Posting strategies for niche brands

[17:06] Encouraging customer stories on Reddit

[21:26] Understanding subreddit culture

[23:42] Insider Tips from Danny!

Reddit Shapes How AI Sees Your Brand

AI tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI results rely heavily on Reddit content. That means your brand reputation on Reddit can directly influence how AI recommends you. If your brand is not mentioned, AI may ignore you or get things wrong. You do not need backlinks to win here. You need consistent, positive mentions in real conversations. Start early, because this space will only get more competitive.

Help First, Sell Never (At Least Not Directly)

Reddit users dislike obvious marketing. If you push your product, you will get ignored or downvoted. The winning approach is to be helpful in comments. Answer real questions and share useful insights. Mention your brand only when it adds value. This builds trust and makes people more likely to choose you later.

Consistency Beats Hacks on Reddit

Reddit is not a quick win channel. You need to show up often and engage like a real person. Focus on a few key subreddits where your audience is active. Learn the rules and tone before you post. Avoid automation and shortcuts, as these will likely get penalized. Over time, this steady effort can drive traffic, sales, and AI visibility.

Takeaways:

  • Reddit’s power lies in authentic community. Brands that focus on building tribes, not pushing products, create lasting cultural relevance and influence. The future of growth is rooted in trust, not control.
  • AI search trusts Reddit because real voices matter. Today, your brand’s story is shaped and cited by the crowd. Participate ethically, and people—and algorithms—will recommend you.
  • Old marketing was broadcast. Now, on platforms like Reddit, influence is earned by engaging and amplifying the community’s values. Listen, learn, contribute—don’t just promote.
  • Success on Reddit isn’t about planting links. It’s about joining conversations, adding value, and letting your advocates become your loudest marketers. Play the long game of trust.
  • Beware shortcuts: bots and fake engagement will be cracked down. Culture rewards real human presence. Show up, contribute meaningfully, and be remembered—by people and by AI.

 

Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/303



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Growth: Using Consumer Psychology to Drive More Conversions with Colin Hodge29 Apr 202600:35:48

Colin Hodge is the author of the brand new book “Outrageous Startup Growth: Uncovering the Secrets of User Psychology to Scale Your Success”. Based on his experience scaling startups to over 100 million users.

In this episode, Colin shares how to apply customer psychology to drive real eCommerce growth, from improving your funnel to increasing conversions and pricing more effectively. Expect practical, testable ideas you can implement straight away to turn insight into revenue.

Dive in:

[05:09] Mindset shifts for entrepreneurship

[08:08] Understanding user psychology

[13:22] Finding and fixing funnel leaks

[14:49] Using psychology to improve ads

[19:30] Experimenting with pricing strategies

[25:13] Explaining decision engineering basics

[26:45] Using emotional moments for loyalty

[28:36] Insider Tips from Colin!

Start with Customer Empathy, Not Just Data

Too many eCommerce brands rely on dashboards and forget there are real people behind the numbers. This episode shows that growth starts with understanding how your customers feel, think, and behave in the moment. You should go beyond basic personas and dig into motivations, frustrations, and context. Talk to customers, watch how they use your site, and even try the journey yourself. This helps you spot hidden barriers and missed opportunities. When you build with empathy, your marketing and product decisions become far more effective.

Fix Your Funnel Before Scaling Acquisition

It’s tempting to pour more budget into ads, but that often wastes money if your funnel is leaking. Instead, focus on where customers drop off early in the journey. Small improvements here can unlock big growth. Once your funnel performs better, you can scale acquisition with confidence. At the same time, study your best customers to understand what made them convert. Then use those insights to attract more people like them.

Use Psychology to Influence Buying Decisions

Pricing, messaging, and design all shape how customers decide to buy. This episode highlights how tactics like price anchoring, framing, and default options can boost conversions. For example, showing a higher-priced option can make your main offer feel like a better deal. Timing also matters, such as using “fresh start” moments like Mondays or new seasons to launch campaigns. These small psychological nudges can have a big impact on sales. The key is to test often and learn what works for your audience. 

Takeaways:

  • Understanding your customer’s environment shapes success in business. Empathy isn't just a buzzword—it’s a growth lever. Dive into their journey, feel their challenges, and watch your brand stand out authentically.
  • True growth starts within. Before hacking customer psychology, founders need a growth mindset: experiment, fail, learn, repeat. Don’t wait for perfect—real progress happens outside the comfort zone.
  • The freshest paths to eCommerce growth aren’t found in dashboards but in people’s minds. Study why competitors’ ads work, then use contrast and uniqueness to ensure your brand cuts through digital noise.
  • Pricing isn’t just about margins. Experiment with price anchors and context. What's the compromise option your customers crave? Pricing psychology can unlock hidden profits and boost conversions.
  • Magic moments matter. Use fresh starts—new seasons, Mondays, or milestones—to re-engage customers. Decision engineering means shaping environments, not just products, to invite loyalty and action.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/302



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Growth: Turn Discounts into a Profit Engine with Smarter Promotion Strategy with Dan Bond, RevLifter22 Apr 202600:33:15

Dan Bond is VP of Marketing at RevLifter, an eCommerce technology company helping retailers optimize conversions through intelligent promotional offers. Working with eCommerce brands as diverse as Laithwaites, Club L London, and Radley.

In this episode, Dan explains why most brands are leaving money on the table with blanket discounts and reactive promotions. He shares how to build a smarter promotion strategy that increases conversion and average order value while protecting your margins.

Dive in:

[05:39] When promotions go wrong

[06:57] Setting a discount strategy

[10:49] Strategic discounting and incentives

[13:46] Adapting to external changes

[17:01] Helping retailers with managed services

[22:18] Driving sales with add-ons

[24:34] Insider Tips from Dan!

Treat discounts as a strategy, not a last-minute tactic

Most eCommerce brands use discounts as a quick fix when sales dip. That approach leads to wasted margin and poor long-term results. Instead, you need a clear plan for when and why you discount. Decide who should see offers, which products qualify, and what level of discount makes sense. This helps you stay in control of your brand and profitability. A simple strategy beats random promotions every time.

Measure deeper than revenue and conversion rate

It’s easy to focus on top-line metrics like revenue and conversion rate. But these numbers can hide real problems. A promotion may boost sales while hurting your margins or attracting low-value customers. You need to track metrics like profit, customer lifetime value, and incremental lift. Always ask: would this sale have happened without the discount? Better measurement leads to better decisions and stronger growth.

Test, personalize, and optimize continuously

There is no “set and forget” promotion strategy. What works today may not work next month. You should test different offers, audiences, and timings on a regular basis. Use customer behavior to personalize offers instead of giving the same deal to everyone. For example, target exit-intent users or increase basket size with spend thresholds. Small, ongoing improvements can drive big gains over time.

Takeaways:

  • Discounting isn't just a quick sales fix. It can shape your brand’s culture. Are you rewarding loyal behavior, or just chasing conversions? Set a strategy first, then let data inform your next move.
  • Promotions are a business lever, but also a cultural one. Quick tactics risk damaging your margins and reputation. Build a culture that values testing, learning, and thoughtful experimentation.
  • True growth culture isn't about copying others’ offers. It’s about understanding your own brand and customers deeply.
  • Regularly review who gets your discounts and why. Strategy-first cultures excel by being intentional about promotions. Test, measure, learn, then optimize, always.
  • eCommerce culture thrives on experimentation. Every offer is a test, every result a lesson. Optimize not just for the sale, but for deeper impact. Culture is built in these choices.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/301



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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14 Top Tips to Grow Your eCommerce Store15 Apr 202600:24:22

You’re listening to a milestone episode – the Keep Optimising Podcast’s Episode 300!! 🎉

To celebrate, Chloe Thomas has brought together 13 expert guests and asked them one powerful question:

“What’s your top tip for eCommerce growth right now?”

The result? A fast-paced, insight-packed episode covering everything from brand building and data foundations to popups, promotions, and performance marketing.

Here’s our guest line-up for this special episode:

  • Dan Coleman from Coleman Marketing,
  • Amy Budd from Launch,
  • Jaye Cowle from Launch,
  • Lucy Bloomfield from Magic Marketer,
  • Stephen Honight from The LM07 Agency,
  • Sam Wright from Blink SEO,
  • Charlie Semmence from Leaf Signal,
  • Roman Petrochenkov from Carwow,
  • Anna Wilson from Key Ascent,
  • Fiona Thompson from LoyaltyLion,
  • Dan Bond from RevLifter,
  • Taras Talimonchuk from Claspo,
  • and Eric Sheinkopf from The Desire Company.


It’s the episode you’ve been waiting for — so tune in to hear 14 actionable tips to help you grow your eCommerce business smarter, faster, and more profitably 🚀

Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/300



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Growth: 3 Pillars of Creative to Beat the Attention Recession with Amy Budd, Launch08 Apr 202600:34:16

Amy Budd is the Client Services Director at Launch, a B Corp performance marketing agency that helps brands grow in a way that actually lasts. Mixing smart data with creative thinking to build campaigns that work, now and also in the long run. Happy clients include Weird Fish, Piglet In Bed, and Green People.

In this episode, Amy shares how brands can cut through today’s “attention recession” by improving their creative strategy. She breaks down three practical pillars that will help you stand out, connect with your audience, and drive stronger results across your marketing.

Dive in:

[05:14] "Attention Recession Explained"

[07:52] "Maximizing Brand Growth Channels"

[09:52] "Building Distinctive Brand Assets"

[14:01] "Relevance, Research, and Brand Nuance"

[17:45] "Niche Defines Brand Positioning"

[19:12] "Mastering Ads in Seconds"

[23:08] "Maximizing ROI with Balanced Strategy"

[27:00] Insider Tips from Amy!

[31:04] Episode sponsored by Launch. Find out more at https://keepopt.com/launch

Pillar 1: Be instantly recognisable, even without your logo

Your brand should be easy to spot in seconds. Most shoppers scroll fast and do not read. They react to visuals first. Use consistent colours, fonts, and styles across all your ads. Aim to pass the “blur test,” where people still know it’s you without a logo. For eCommerce brands, this builds memory and trust over time, which lowers your cost to acquire customers.

Pillar 2: Make your messaging truly relevant to your customers

Relevance starts with understanding how your customers think and speak. Do not rely on product descriptions alone. Use real customer reviews, feedback, and support queries to shape your messaging. Highlight the small details that matter, like “has pockets” or “easy to clean.” These simple insights often drive more clicks and sales than generic claims. For eCommerce teams, this is one of the fastest ways to improve ad performance.

Pillar 3: Create emotional content that stops the scroll

You have about 1–2 seconds to grab attention. Facts and features are not enough. Your content needs to make people feel something fast. This could be joy, curiosity, or even surprise. Emotion keeps people watching and helps them remember your brand later. For eCommerce brands, this leads to stronger engagement and higher conversion over time.

Takeaways:

  • Creativity in marketing isn’t just about looking good. It’s about building brand memories. Are your ads recognizable without your logo? Time to audit your brand voice and visuals and make sure they stand out, not blend in.
  • Want stronger growth? Dig into your customer reviews. Your real advantage might be hidden in their words. Bring their language and needs into your ads. It’s more powerful than any corporate speak.
  • The magic of emotional reward: In a noisy online world, ads that make people feel something are 7x more likely to boost your revenue. Make your brand memorable by sparking emotion every time you show up.
  • True performance marketing is more than just numbers. The brands that combine strategy, creativity, and data get those unforgettable connections – and the results to match.
  • Don’t just chase every shiny new channel. Test, measure, and learn. The best brands set aside 10% of their budget to experiment, then double down on what works. Sustainable growth starts with smart, ongoing experimentation.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/299

Sponsored by Launch. Take their Free 7 Levers Scorecard here >>> https://keepopt.com/launch



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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SEO GEO: 3 Key Pillars of Helpful Content for Google SEO with Amanda Walls, Cedarwood Digital25 Mar 202600:32:28

Amanda Walls is the founder and director of Cedarwood Digital – who were recently awarded the Best Small Integrated Agency in Europe & the UK 2025. They are a sort after global agency for SEO, PPC and Digital PR.

In this episode, Amanda joins Chloe Thomas to break down the three pillars of helpful content for Google SEO. They explore how eCommerce brands can strengthen their product pages, category pages, and trust pages to improve rankings, build credibility, and convert more shoppers.

Dive in:

[06:12] SEO's Evolution: User-Centric Search

[07:01] Google's Focus on User Intent

[12:46] "Importance of Trust-Building Pages"

[15:09] "About Us vs. Contact Us"

[18:39] "Mid-Funnel Shopper Content Strategy"

[20:24] "Audit Blogs: Value Over Volume"

[24:11] Insider Tips from Amanda!

First Pillar: Product Pages

Product pages are the most important content on an eCommerce site. Many shoppers land directly on them from search when they already know what they want. Your job is to make the page answer every key question about the product. Include clear descriptions, specs, images, delivery details, and reviews. Avoid thin manufacturer copy and add helpful information your customers actually need. When product pages are detailed and trustworthy, they rank better and convert more visitors.

Second Pillar: Category Pages

Category pages help shoppers who are still exploring their options. They sit between the homepage and individual products and group related items together. These pages are perfect for broader searches such as product types, brands, or styles. Add short, helpful text that explains what the category includes and how to choose. Filters, clear navigation, and useful descriptions help users compare products easily. Well-optimised category pages capture research-stage traffic and guide shoppers deeper into your store.

Third Pillar: Trust Pages (About, Contact, and Credibility)

Trust pages prove that your business is real and reliable. Important examples include the About Us page and the Contact Us page. Many stores hide these pages in the footer, which makes them harder for users and Google to find. Instead, make them easy to access in the main navigation or header. Clearly show who you are, how customers can contact you, and why your store can be trusted. Strong trust pages improve SEO signals and increase customer confidence before they buy.

Takeaways:

  • Making your About Us and Contact Us pages visible builds real trust. They're not just SEO boxes to tick. Users need to find real people behind the brand if you want them to buy. Authenticity always wins.
  • Helpful content isn’t about stuffing keywords. It’s about meeting what your customer actually needs at every stage – info, reassurance, easy navigation. Good for SEO, but great for building community.
  • Don’t hide your story. Even if you’re camera-shy, showing your brand’s purpose, team or process on your site helps people connect. Connection is culture. It’s what turns browsers into loyal advocates.
  • Cut the fluff on your blog. Every post should add value or reinforce your expertise. Content for content’s sake confuses both search engines and customers. Precision matters.
  • Conversion and SEO are inseparable – user experience is at the core of both. If your site is designed for clarity and accessibility, you’re not just optimised for search; you’re building lasting trust.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/298



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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SEO GEO: Category Page SEO Dos and Don’ts with Liv Day, Digitaloft18 Mar 202600:35:59

Liv Day is the SEO Lead at Digitaloft, where she crafts ROI-led SEO strategies that deliver a fast impact for their clients.

In this episode, Liv shares how to turn your eCommerce category pages into powerful revenue drivers – without stuffing them with endless SEO copy. We dive into practical fixes, smart internal linking strategies, and how to prepare your store for the rise of AI search and agentic commerce.

Dive in:

[06:12] "Optimizing Collection Pages Effectively"

[09:15] "eCommerce Site Structure Insights"

[10:41] SEO, UX, and Engagement Signals

[15:40] "Optimized Copy Boosts Rankings"

[18:42] "Internal Linking Pitfalls Explained"

[21:23] "AI Search Optimization for eCommerce"

[25:57] Insider Tips from Liv!

Do: Keep Category Page Copy Tight and Conversion-Focused

Write copy that helps shoppers choose. Focus on product types, benefits, and buying considerations. Keep it clear and commercially relevant. Around 300–500 words are often enough.

Avoid: Adding 2,000 words of fluff about “What is a dress?” or product history. More words do not mean more value.

Do: Build a Clear Internal Linking Structure

Link parent categories to subcategories and back again. Use descriptive anchor text like “red dresses” instead of “click here.” Make your hierarchy obvious to both users and Google. This improves crawlability and navigation.

Avoid: Weak anchor text and Shopify non-canonical product URLs that dilute ranking signals.

Do: Optimise for AI Search with Better Product Data

Prepare for AI-driven shopping now. Keep your product feeds clean and complete. Add structured data and FAQs that answer real buying questions. Optimise for long-tail and comparison queries.

Avoid: Ignoring product feeds and Merchant Center setup while competitors prepare for agentic commerce.

Takeaways:

  • SEO isn’t just spreadsheets and keywords. It’s about understanding people. Liv reminds us: Don’t create content for Google. Create for real humans. When you serve users first, search engines will reward you.
  • The secret sauce for category pages: Internal linking! Liv Day shares how connecting relevant pages not only helps Google but guides buyers. Conversion and SEO go hand in hand.
  • Copy on category pages shouldn’t be endless. Too much information can confuse users and hurt your rankings. Keep content clear, concise, and focused on helping shoppers decide.
  • We’re about to enter the world of agentic commerce. Soon, purchasing straight from Google and ChatGPT will be the norm. Liv urges brands to optimize product data now to stay visible.
  • SEO is a journey, not a destination. Testing, learning, and iterating help you keep up with change. What worked yesterday may need a tweak tomorrow.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/297



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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SEO GEO: Turn Your Shopify Product Data into an AI Search Growth Engine with Sam Wright, Blink11 Mar 202600:30:27

Sam Wright is the Managing Director at specialist eCommerce agency Blink, the Shopify marketing agency for large catalogue stores. Sam’s been in SEO since 2007, and in eCommerce since 2002.

In this episode, returning guest Sam breaks down how large Shopify brands should be structuring their product data and taxonomy to succeed in both SEO and the fast-evolving world of AI search. He talks about practical fixes that can improve visibility, customer experience, and organic growth — and why getting your data foundations right now will pay off across every channel.

Dive in:

[05:39] AI Strategies for Shopify Brands

[07:51] Store Success Depends on Structure

[12:31] Optimizing Shopify Data for AI

[16:38] "Shopify's AI-Powered FAQ Tool"

[19:44] AI Search and Shopify Shipping

[20:44] "AI, Shopping, and SEO Challenges"

[22:27] Insider Tips from Sam!

Clean, structured product data is now your biggest growth lever

AI search and SEO both rely on clear, structured product data. If your data is messy, incomplete, or spread across systems, you will lose visibility. Treat Shopify as your single source of truth. Fill in standard fields like product type, category, materials, and key attributes. Avoid storing important details only in images, PDFs, or documents. Clean data flows into AI tools, Google, ads, and your site, so one fix improves many channels.

Go deeper with taxonomy and attributes to win more traffic

Basic categories are no longer enough. You need deeper product structure that matches how customers search. Create more specific categories and filters where it makes sense. Then add richer attributes such as size details, materials, ingredients, or performance data. AI tools use this depth to decide which products to show. Better structure also improves on-site navigation and conversion. When customers can find the right product faster, revenue follows.

Start preparing for AI now by enriching real customer knowledge

AI cannot invent accurate product information if it does not exist. The advantage comes from turning internal knowledge into structured content. Capture insights from customer service, product teams, and suppliers. Turn common questions into FAQs and detailed product information. Add shipping, returns, and usage details in text format, not just policies or images. The brands that document what they know today will be the ones AI recommends tomorrow.

Takeaways:

  • Shopify’s secret to success? Turning technical headaches into easy wins for everyone, not just devs – and now, they're doing the same for AI. The future belongs to brands with quality data and clear structures behind the scenes.
  • Want to futureproof your online store for AI search? Start with the basics: organize your product data, nail your taxonomy, and focus on making your brand message portable so it shines through, even when customers never visit your site.
  • Shopify’s new tools make catalog mapping and data plumbing simpler than ever—but it’s what you feed the system that counts. Clean, detailed product info is your edge as AI-driven discovery takes off.
  • Richer, deeper product data isn’t just for better SEO—it powers AI tools, improves UX, and sets your brand apart. If your specs are buried in PDFs or blurry images, now’s the time to transform them into structured, searchable content.
  • This Q4 could be the turning point for AI-driven shopping. The work you put into fixing your taxonomy and data flows now will pay off in organic growth, smoother user journeys, and readiness for whatever AI brings next.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/296



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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SEO GEO: How eCommerce Brands Can Improve AI Search Visibility On-Site and Off-Site with Emily Richardson, KNWN04 Mar 202600:31:09

Emily Richardson is the founder of KNWN, who offer 2 products for AI, Search KNWN Analytics and Dual Web. Emily’s been deep in marketing, tech, and research since 2019 and via KNWN is now helping over 2,000 brands optimise their websites for AI search results.

In this episode, Emily breaks down exactly how eCommerce brands should be thinking about on-site and off-site optimisation for AI search visibility. From quick structural wins you can implement today to longer-term citation and PR strategies, this is a practical guide to showing up in ChatGPT, Gemini, and beyond.

Dive in:

[04:21] ChatGPT Citations vs. Google SEO

[09:00] "Effective Content Structure Tips"

[13:30] "Optimize FAQs for AI Search"

[15:37] "Optimizing Offsite AI Citations"

[19:24] Optimize Content for Reddit & Wikipedia

[20:32] Insider Tips from Emily!

AI Search Is Fundamentally Different from Traditional SEO—And You Need to Optimise for Both

One of the eye-opening takeaways is that generative engine optimization (GEO) and answer engine optimization (AEO) represent a notable evolution from classic SEO. Emily reveals that 90% of ChatGPT citations for the same queries do not overlap with Google’s top results. This happens because AI search engines crawl and prioritise web content differently, focusing less on backlinks and more on structured, clear, and mathematically-optimised content. The lesson: you need to keep doing traditional SEO but also specifically optimise for AI-driven search engines to ensure your brand is discoverable across the next wave of online discovery.

On-Site Optimisation: Structure and Unique Content Are Non-Negotiable

The episode provides actionable, practical advice for improving your site’s AI visibility—steps you can take immediately. Emily recommends:

  • Starting every page with a clear summary: AI bots skim rather than read, so front-load value.
  • Chunking your content into short, digestible sections and using bullet points to make parsing easier for AI.
  • Including FAQs—especially long-tail, user-driven questions—since AI search queries tend to be much longer and more conversational than those in traditional search.
  • Finally, create content only you can create: focus on proprietary data, real-world experience, and unique perspectives—anything that couldn’t simply be generated by an AI prompt.


Off-Site Tactics are Changing: Citations and Mentions Matter More Than Traditional Backlinks

Off-site optimisation for AI no longer revolves solely around backlinks. Emily explains that AI search engines favour brand mentions and citations over links. It’s crucial to get your brand discussed on high-authority sites, in industry listicles, community platforms like Reddit, and on Wikipedia. Also, for Google’s Gemini AI engine, having relevant YouTube content is a significant advantage. Monitoring where your brand is being cited in AI results (using tools or manual checks) will highlight new opportunities for growth. Strategic PR, industry coverage, and “as-seen-on” mentions can have an outsized impact in this new landscape.

Takeaways:

  • AI search engines are changing the game! Your site needs clear structure—think summaries up top, FAQ sections at the bottom, and content the AI couldn't have written. Original insights win.
  • Offsite matters more than ever. AI bots don’t care about backlinks—your brand just needs to be mentioned in blog posts, listicles, and even Reddit threads. Start boosting your visibility!
  • Long-tailed queries are the new norm. With AI search, questions are longer and more specific. Use FAQs and comparison pages to answer what real people are asking and edge into AI results.
  • Don’t forget your product pages! Chunk info, add product FAQs, and keep it simple. If AI can’t render your content (looking at you, JavaScript), you’ll be invisible.
  • Stay ahead: Watch for ads in ChatGPT and others soon. PR and industry news coverage are key to appearing in AI search answers—the time to act is now.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/295



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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SEO GEO: Bad SEO Practices That Are Hurting Your Website (And How to Avoid Them) with Iva Jovanovic25 Feb 202600:38:51

Iva Jovanovic is an SEO and content strategist working across a range of industries, and for brands big and small. She also speaks at events across Europe and is involved in organising many SEO and Tech events in Serbia.

In this episode, Iva breaks down the bad SEO practices that can seriously damage your rankings, traffic, and long-term growth — and how eCommerce brands can avoid them.

Dive in:

[05:05] "SEO Mistakes to Avoid"

[08:26] "Black Hat SEO: Link Farming"

[12:22] "Cloaking and Keyword Stuffing"

[16:30] Avoid Duplicate or Plagiarized Content

[20:08] AI vs Human Content Creation

[23:25] "Prioritize Key Pages in Menus"

[25:17] "Continuous SEO Is Essential"

[27:22] Insider Tips from Iva!

Bad SEO doesn’t just slow growth — it can wipe out your traffic

Shortcuts in SEO almost always backfire. Tactics like link farming, hidden links, or keyword stuffing can trigger penalties that are hard to recover from. Some sites see traffic disappear overnight after an update. For eCommerce brands, this means lost product visibility and fewer sales. Once trust is damaged, rebuilding rankings takes time, money, and patience. Clean, honest SEO is always cheaper in the long run.

Many SEO problems happen by accident, not intent

Some of the most damaging SEO mistakes are simple oversights. Sites are often launched with “noindex” settings still turned on. Location or category pages get copied with little change, creating duplicate content. Website structures become messy as new products and pages are added. Search engines struggle to understand what matters most. Regular technical checks can prevent months of lost traffic.

SEO is not a one-time project — it’s ongoing infrastructure

SEO works more like store maintenance than a campaign. You cannot “set it and forget it” and expect results to last. Brands that stop investing often see traffic fall six to seven months later. Search engines and AI tools reward sites that keep improving. For eCommerce teams, this means continuous optimisation of content, structure, and user experience. Consistency is what protects revenue over time.

Takeaways:

  • Want lasting SEO success? Iva Jovanovic says it’s never a one-time setup. SEO needs consistent attention, just like any relationship that matters for your brand’s future online.
  • Linking your sites together in a sneaky way might feel clever, but Iva Jovanovic warns it can lead to long-term damage and a ranking crash. Build links that truly add value instead.
  • Mistakes happen—even accidental ones like leaving your new site “noindexed.” Iva Jovanovic highlights that small tech slip-ups can quietly destroy your visibility. Double-check and stay curious!
  • AI tools? Use them for inspiration, not as your voice. Iva Jovanovic reminds us quality content is always human at heart. Stand out by sharing your unique story and perspective.
  • Culture in the digital world is about ongoing learning and curiosity. Iva Jovanovic encourages exploring, experimenting, and always looking to improve—both for yourself and your brand’s online presence.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/294



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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WhatsApp: Why Customer Lifetime Value is the Key Goal of WhatsApp Marketing with Abhishek Chandra, GoKwik11 Feb 202600:35:35

Abhishek Chandra is the Chief Revenue Officer at GoKwik. Founded in 2020 their focus is on helping eCommerce brands unlock their growth by solving crucial challenges across the eCommerce funnel, including enabling success on WhatsApp.

Drawing on GoKwik’s experience across thousands of brands, Abhishek, who has also been on the eCommerce MasterPlan podcast, breaks down practical WhatsApp strategies that improve retention, reduce support friction, and increase long-term revenue.

Dive in:

[03:31] "Transforming eCommerce with WhatsApp"

[06:33] "WhatsApp Adoption Trends: East vs West"

[12:58] "Engaging Customers Through Personalization"

[14:26] "WhatsApp's Marketing Advantage Over Email"

[20:01] "Effective WhatsApp Engagement Strategies"

[21:39] "Gamified Reviews Boost ROI"

[27:36] "Campaign Automation for ROI Growth"

[29:04] "WhatsApp Marketing: Key Insights"

[30:38] Insider Tips from Abhishek!

[37:06] Episode sponsored by GoKwik. Find out more at https://keepopt.com/kwikengage

WhatsApp Works Best When You Focus on Customer Lifetime Value, Not One-Off Sales

WhatsApp is not just another acquisition channel. It shines when used to build long-term customer relationships. Many eCommerce brands lose 60–70% of customers after the first purchase. WhatsApp helps close that gap through ongoing, two-way conversations. It supports post-purchase education, product tips, and helpful check-ins. This kind of engagement increases trust and repeat buying over time.

Start With Abandoned Cart Recovery to Prove ROI Fast

Abandoned carts are the fastest win on WhatsApp. You already paid to get the shopper to your site. WhatsApp recovers over 20% of abandoned carts for many brands. This beats email and SMS by a wide margin. Start here to show value quickly before expanding into more advanced use cases.

WhatsApp Blends Marketing and Customer Service Into One Powerful Channel

WhatsApp removes the gap between marketing and support. Customers can track orders, ask questions, and get recommendations in one thread. This reduces friction and builds confidence, especially for first-time buyers. Brands often see fewer support tickets as a result. At the same time, these conversations unlock cross-sell, upsell, and review requests.

Takeaways:

  • WhatsApp marketing is more than just a trend—it's transforming how brands connect with customers. Personal conversations, instant feedback, and genuine engagement create real relationships that boost lifetime value.
  • Asia’s WhatsApp adoption shows us the future: business and culture blend seamlessly. Western markets are just waking up—don’t wait to learn from global leaders. Success starts with curiosity and collaboration.
  • On WhatsApp, the boundary between service and marketing disappears. A birthday wish, an assemble-your-table video, a review request—these moments make customers feel seen and heard. Culture thrives on authenticity; tech should amplify it.
  • Customers don’t want another faceless brand. WhatsApp lets founders send direct video messages, gamify reviews, and even spotlight happy pets online. The magic of culture is connection—digital tools help us make it personal at scale.
  • AI agents on WhatsApp are coming fast. Imagine instant support, assisted buying, and marketing—all in one chat. The brands that embrace tech while respecting human connection will set new standards for culture-led commerce.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/293

Sponsored by: Kwik Engage by GoKwik find out more: https://keepopt.com/kwikengage



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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WhatsApp: Communities That Drive Real Customer Insight – Alice Brown, Seventh Wave Stories04 Feb 202600:34:32

Alice Brown is the founder and narrative strategist at Seventh Wave Stories, where she helps brands connect to their customers throughout the customer journey.

In this episode, returning guest Alice shares how she’s using WhatsApp communities to uncover powerful customer insight, build trust, and shape better marketing decisions—without turning WhatsApp into a sales channel.

Dive in:

[06:32] "Validating Recovery and Performance Messaging"

[12:15] Building Engaged Communities on WhatsApp

[15:42] "Understanding Customers' Deep Motivations"

[20:52] "Successful WhatsApp Groups Explained"

[22:14] Founders' Motivation and Team Dynamics

[27:18] Successful WhatsApp Group Strategy

[29:48] Insider Tips from Alice!

A WhatsApp community only works if it is not a sales channel

WhatsApp groups fail when brands treat them like broadcasts. Customers do not join communities to be sold to. They join to learn, share, and feel understood. Trust grows when conversation flows both ways. Sales then happen naturally, not through pressure. For eCommerce brands, the real value comes from insight and loyalty, not instant revenue.

The right people matter more than the number of people

Small, curated groups outperform large, open communities. Engagement drops fast when members do not feel connected to each other. The most effective WhatsApp groups are built around shared motivations, not demographics. This means inviting customers who face similar problems and want to learn together. For eCommerce teams, this approach leads to better feedback, stronger relationships, and higher long-term value.

WhatsApp groups reveal customer insight you cannot get from surveys

Customers speak differently when they are relaxed and not being “researched.” In WhatsApp groups, language is more honest and emotional. This reveals real objections, motivations, and frustrations. That language is gold for product pages, ads, emails, and content. eCommerce brands that listen closely can replace guesswork with real customer voice.

Takeaways:

  • Building community in WhatsApp groups isn’t about numbers—it’s about creating genuine connections. If you want real engagement, focus on who you invite and curate spaces where people can learn from each other. Quality over quantity!
  • Research calls are great, but WhatsApp groups offer ongoing, organic insights. When people feel comfortable and valued, their honest motivations emerge naturally. That’s where cultural gold lives—in everyday conversations.
  • True community happens when members interact without constant moderation. If people celebrate, share struggles, and genuinely connect, culture thrives. It’s not a broadcast channel, it’s a space for real relationships.
  • Group dynamics work best when built on shared aspirations—not just demographics. Bringing together people who can learn from each other creates vibrant, resilient culture. Find those overlaps to spark authentic engagement.
  • Don’t treat WhatsApp groups as one-way sales channels. Give members room to express, encourage vulnerability, and facilitate learning. Reciprocal relationships set the stage for long-term brand loyalty and advocacy.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/292

Sponsored by: Kwik Engage by GoKwik find out more: https://keepopt.com/kwikengage



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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WhatsApp: BFCM Case Study That Changed How We Think – with George Kapernaros, Yocto28 Jan 202600:27:34

George Kapernaros is the CEO at YOCTO a world-class CRM agency for DTC brands, including being a Klaviyo Elite Partner. Working to increase profits and sales for brands like Better Me, Healf, and Miracare, and he’s also the host of the CEO After Dark podcast AND one of the 40-strong Klaviyo Partner Advisory Council.

In his return to the podcast, George breaks down a real WhatsApp marketing case study from Black Friday, sharing the exact strategy, setup, and results. He shares what worked, what surprised him, and what eCommerce brands can learn before testing WhatsApp themselves.

Dive in:

[05:59] "Targeted WhatsApp Consent Strategy"

[09:21] WhatsApp Outperforms Email Revenue

[12:47] Act Now: Novelty Won’t Last

[15:07] "Brands That Act Win"

[19:43] Insider Tips from George!

Start WhatsApp with existing customers, not new leads

The strongest results came from messaging people who already trusted the brand. The team did not use WhatsApp for acquisition. They only collected opt-ins from existing buyers and subscribers. This reduced risk and kept costs under control. It also meant messages felt expected, not intrusive. For eCommerce brands, this is the safest way to test a new channel.

WhatsApp can massively outperform email when used correctly

In this test, WhatsApp generated far more revenue per recipient than email. The list was much smaller, but engagement was dramatically higher. People open WhatsApp because it feels personal. There is no crowded inbox or promo tab to fight against. With clear offers and proper consent, WhatsApp can drive real sales. It should be treated as a revenue channel, not just a support tool.

Move fast while WhatsApp still has a novelty advantage

WhatsApp works so well right now because it is still new for marketing. Customers are curious and more willing to engage. That advantage will not last forever. Costs will rise as more brands enter the channel. Brands that test now will learn faster and win earlier. Waiting too long means missing easy gains and clear insights.

Takeaways:

  • WhatsApp isn’t just for chatting with friends—brands are seeing jaw-dropping results when building direct, consent-based campaigns. The brands that test new channels now get ahead before the rest of the market catches on.
  • Real-world WhatsApp marketing: one brand earned 9x more revenue per recipient on WhatsApp than email, simply by starting small with their loyal customers. Sometimes “less is more” isn’t just a saying—it’s a business strategy.
  • The key to new platforms? Move quickly and don’t overthink. As George Caponaros shared, being an early adopter meant gaining insights and results competitors will be chasing for months.
  • Consent matters more than ever. You can’t just start messaging everyone—true permission is central to success and crucial for customer trust. Start with audiences who already believe in your brand.
  • The WhatsApp “novelty effect” won’t last forever. Now’s the perfect window to experiment, learn what works, and build your next community before your competitors even start.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/291

Sponsored by: Kwik Engage by GoKwik find out more: https://keepopt.com/kwikengage



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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WhatsApp: 8 Mistakes to Avoid when Marketing with WhatsApp – with Rich Evans, Get Better21 Jan 202600:37:20

Rich Evans is the founder and reluctant managing director at Get Better an agency focused on building personalised email marketing that helps their clients reach their full growth potential. Clients include Absolute Collagen, Myomaster, and Pott Candles.

Rich is back on the podcast to explore WhatsApp marketing for eCommerce, sharing the biggest mistakes brands must avoid and how to use the channel in a way customers actually welcome.

Dive in:

[05:34] "WhatsApp Marketing Mistakes Overview"

[06:40] "WhatsApp: Broadcast vs. Conversation"

[12:38] "Address Change via WhatsApp"

[15:58] Questionable SMS to WhatsApp Strategy

[19:06] "Training AI Agents Effectively"

[21:32] AI Trust and Data Concerns

[24:42] Meta, Ownership, and WhatsApp Consent

[27:39] Insider Tips from Rich!

Avoid These 8 WhatsApp Marketing Mistakes

WhatsApp is not just another messaging channel. It requires a different mindset and operating model. The episode outlines eight common mistakes that can quickly damage trust, performance, and even your Meta account. Avoiding these mistakes is the foundation of success on WhatsApp. Get these wrong and the channel will fail before it starts.

The 8 mistakes to avoid:

  • Treating WhatsApp like a broadcast channel
  • Forgetting it is a two-way, conversational platform
  • Failing to align marketing and customer service
  • Starting with sales messages instead of service messages
  • Misunderstanding or stretching consent
  • Using WhatsApp like email or SMS instead of giving it a clear role
  • Launching without AI or automation to handle replies
  • Ignoring that WhatsApp is owned and governed by Meta


WhatsApp Works Best as a Service-First Channel

WhatsApp performs best when it starts with service, not promotion. Customers see WhatsApp as personal and high trust. That means they expect help, fast answers, and real conversation. Transactional messages and support interactions build confidence first. Only after that trust is earned should marketing messages appear. For eCommerce brands, this turns WhatsApp into a powerful conversion and retention tool.

Scale WhatsApp with AI, but Keep Humans Close

WhatsApp conversations move fast and customers expect quick replies. Human-only teams cannot scale this efficiently. AI agents are essential for handling volume, common questions, and out-of-hours support. But AI must be trained carefully on products, tone of voice, and policies. There must always be a clear path to a human when needed. Brands that balance automation and human support will win on WhatsApp.

Takeaways:

  • WhatsApp is more than a channel—it's a sacred space for personal connections. Brands must earn trust before entering. Never treat it like just another inbox for promos, but as a place for true conversations.
  • Don't blast messages on WhatsApp. People crave dialogue, not broadcasts. Start with service, answer questions, and create space for real engagement. That’s how trust—and loyalty—are built.
  • The future of customer care is blending service with marketing. WhatsApp lets brands offer instant support and build community. It’s where quick answers and genuine care drive the business forward.
  • Respect consent when using WhatsApp for marketing. Not everyone wants messages—be cautious, clear, and customer-focused. Remember: building trust always wins over quick hacks.
  • As we bring AI agents to WhatsApp, stay real. Train bots to talk like you, but plan for human backup. Great culture happens when tech is smart—but the heart stays human.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/290

Sponsored by: Kwik Engage by GoKwik find out more: https://keepopt.com/kwikengage



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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WhatsApp: High-Converting Revenue Recovery Channel with Luca Borreani, ZipChat AI14 Jan 202600:28:38

Luca Borreani is the CMO and Co-founder of ZipChat AI, who are helping eCommerce brands embrace Agentic Commerce.

In this episode, Luca shares how eCommerce brands are using WhatsApp and AI to recover lost revenue, turn abandoned carts into conversations, and scale customer engagement without adding pressure to support teams.

Dive in:

[07:07] "Optimizing Abandoned Cart Conversations"

[08:58] "Conversational Abandoned Cart Strategy"

[13:39] WhatsApp Newsletter Strategy Insights

[15:27] Personalized Customer Engagement Strategies

[19:10] "AI Success Requires Structured Content"

[21:59] Insider Tips from Luca!

Treat WhatsApp as a conversation, not a campaign

WhatsApp works because it feels personal. Customers use it to talk to people they trust. That means brands must stop treating it like email or SMS. The best results come from starting a conversation, not pushing a discount. Asking why someone abandoned a cart opens the door to engagement. This approach drives higher replies and stronger conversions.

Use AI to scale revenue recovery without adding workload

WhatsApp generates fast replies and high response rates. That quickly becomes impossible to manage manually. AI allows brands to handle hundreds of conversations at once without delays. It can answer questions, handle objections, and offer incentives safely. This makes revenue recovery scalable without overwhelming customer service teams.

Your website data determines how well WhatsApp AI performs

AI is only as good as the information it learns from. Clear product pages, pricing, and FAQs are essential. Well-structured content helps AI respond accurately and stay on brand. Poor content leads to weak conversations and missed sales. For eCommerce teams, fixing site content is a revenue lever, not just a UX task.

Takeaways:

  • WhatsApp is more than just a messaging app—it's how modern brands build real, one-on-one customer relationships. Treat it as personal as you would a text from family and your conversions will soar.
  • Don't treat WhatsApp like email. People expect authenticity and conversation, not cold marketing messages. A genuine "How can we help?" goes much further than "Here's 20% off".
  • The secret to revenue recovery isn't discounts—it's listening. When you ask shoppers why they abandoned their cart, you get insight and loyalty, not just transactions.
  • AI-powered conversations can feel natural and human, but only if you give the AI rich information. "Garbage in, garbage out." Your brand voice and data matter.
  • Feedback is gold. The best brands use AI to analyze chat conversations, spot pain points, and adapt quickly—turning abandoned carts into loyal fans.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/289

Sponsored by: Kwik Engage by GoKwik find out more: https://keepopt.com/kwikengage



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Customer Acquisition: 4 Steps to GEO Success and Winning More AI-Driven Traffic with Lisa Wendland, Blue Wheel31 Dec 202500:34:39

Lisa Wendland has spent the last 15 years getting DEEP into what works in digital marketing and operations both in eCommerce and beyond. In 2021 she joined omnichannel agency Blue Wheel to both improve ROI for clients and speed up internal production, managing over $2 billion in client ad spend across Amazon, Walmart, and D2C.

In this episode, Lisa breaks down the 4 essential steps to GEO success and explains how eCommerce brands can win visibility in an AI-powered search world. If you want ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google’s AI Overview to recommend your products in 2026, this is the episode you don’t want to skip.

Dive in:

[04:05] From Mortgages to eCommerce Insights

[10:09] "AI-Driven SEO and Trust"

[12:01] "Targeted, Authoritative Content Matters"

[16:44] "Optimizing Content for Chat GPT"

[19:57] Optimizing Site Speed & Crawlability

[22:48] "AI Prioritizes Brand Over Pages"

[24:33] Insider Tips from Lisa!

Fix Your Technical Foundation

Your site must be fast, clean, and easy for AI systems to read. This includes strong Core Web Vitals, quick load times, and a structure that helps bots crawl every page. Remove old, broken, or orphaned pages that confuse search engines. Make sure key details are in text, not hidden inside images. Without this technical base, AI tools will not trust or recommend your brand.

Build a Smart Content Strategy

Your content now needs to answer real customer questions in a clear and specific way. Add detailed product information and FAQs directly on product pages. Create supporting content like blogs and guides that link tightly back to your best sellers. Focus on the problems your customers want to solve, not generic SEO copy. This gives AI engines the context they need to recommend your products.

Strengthen Trust and Brand Visibility

AI tools use trust signals to decide which brands to recommend. This includes PR mentions, backlinks, expert endorsements, and consistent branding across your site. Reviews and user proof also help establish authority. Every signal works together to show AI that your brand is credible and safe to promote. The stronger your authority, the more often your products appear in AI-driven results.

Treat Generative AI as a New Channel

AI search is not a trend—it is a new distribution channel. Think of it like TikTok or Amazon search in their early days. Brands that move early will win visibility that compounds over time. Keep testing and learning as platforms like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google evolve. The goal is to position your products where customers now ask for recommendations: inside AI conversations.

Takeaways:

  • “AI doesn’t see your brand the old Google way—it looks for trust, clarity, and cohesion. Get your foundation right, tidy up your site, and show your expertise. The future is about being seen as credible and human.”
  • “SEO isn’t just keywords now. AI engines want real authority, clear branding, and stories behind your products. Clean up your site, add FAQs on product pages, and connect all the dots for true visibility.”
  • “Customer acquisition is evolving fast. Early adopters of GenAI as a channel are winning. Make your brand the obvious, trustworthy choice by optimising content and technical setup before it’s too late.”
  • “Don’t chase every new tactic—really get to know your customer. AI and SEO success comes with patience and consistency. Build your strategy on foundation, optimize, then watch results compound.”
  • “Competing in AI-powered search means treating it like you would any new channel. Maybe it’s not mysterious, just methodical. Get site speed, schema, and content locked down—then let your brand story shine.”


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Customer Acquisition: Leveraging Brand + Performance to Drive Long-Term Growth with Jaye Cowle, Launch24 Dec 202500:31:46

Jaye is the CEO and Founder at Launch, a B Corp performance marketing agency powered by happiness. For the last 13 years they’ve been helping brands grow long term, by mixing smart data and creative thinking. Clients include Weird Fish and Iceland Air.

In this episode, Jaye shares why brand clarity and customer understanding now sit at the heart of effective acquisition. You’ll learn how to break out of channel-focused thinking and start building marketing that creates real demand, loyalty, and long-term growth.

Dive in:

[06:11] Brand Strategy & Business Clarity

[10:05] "Unified Brand and Performance Strategy"

[14:20] "Top Funnel Focus in Marketing"

[17:00] Cohesive Teams Drive Customer Loyalty

[18:48] Customer Insights for Brand Growth

[24:12] Customer Acquisition Strategies Unveiled

[25:00] Insider Tips from Jaye!

A strong brand drives cheaper and more effective acquisition

Many brands are still relying on bottom-of-funnel ads to “harvest intent,” but that approach is getting more expensive and less effective. A clear and meaningful brand makes customers feel something, and that emotional connection increases conversion and retention. When your creative and messaging reflect what the brand stands for, customers are more likely to buy at full price and stay longer. This approach builds salience in the zero-click world where customers may discover you without ever visiting your site. Brand clarity gives you compounding returns that short-term discount campaigns can’t deliver.

Break down silos — brand and performance must work as one team

Many eCommerce orgs have separate brand teams and performance teams. This leads to fragmented messaging, wasted media spend, and inconsistent customer experience. The best results come when both teams share goals, language, insights, and feedback loops. Every campaign should both drive results and build brand memory at the same time. The companies that integrate product, creative, customer insights, and performance will outperform the ones that don’t.

Customer insights are worth more than attribution models

Attribution is messy, incomplete, and often misleading. Instead of obsessing over which ad “gets credit,” smart eCommerce operators are talking directly to customers. Focus groups, informal interviews, ambassador programs, and real-world observation reveal motivation and sentiment that dashboards can’t measure. This intel should shape product development, messaging, and creative strategy. The brands closest to their customers will build loyalty faster and cheaper than those relying only on analytics.

Takeaways:

  • Brand matters more than ever. When every team—from product to marketing—lives and breathes the brand strategy, magic happens. Cohesive culture is your growth superpower.
  • Top-down brand strategy doesn’t work unless leadership really understands and LOVES their customers. Culture starts in the boardroom, grows through every employee, and is felt by every customer.
  • Bring everyone into the room. Product, marketing, agency—work through real business challenges together. When people connect across silos, brand and performance thrive.
  • Retaining customers isn’t just about discounts or campaigns. It’s about building lasting emotional resonance with your brand. Loyalty flourishes when your culture is authentic and the brand is lived daily.
  • Perfect data doesn’t exist. Embrace a learning culture—focus on curiosity, staying close to your customers, and not being afraid to blend data with intuition. That’s where true brand value is unlocked.


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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Customer Acquisition: Meta Ads for 2026 – with Elyse Collat17 Dec 202500:30:12

Elyse Collat is a digital growth leader and eCommerce strategist with 15+ years of experience helping purpose-driven brands scale with impact. Including delivering triple-digital growth for multiple global brands like frank green, Thankyou, and STAAND.

In this episode, she reveals what’s actually working right now in Meta ads, and how brands can combine smart testing with strategic creative to unlock real, sustainable customer acquisition.

Dive in:

[05:41] "Pragmatic Growth Through Testing"

[07:28] "Effective Targeted Ad Campaigns"

[11:37] Balancing Creator Freedom and Guidance

[14:28] Creative Targeting Tips for Ads

[18:12] Creative Testing for Growth

[23:07] Insider Tips from Elyse!

Creative is now the primary targeting engine

Facebook’s algorithm has evolved, which means your creative is what now decides who your ads reach. When the message, tone, and visuals speak directly to a specific buyer, Meta will find those people for you. This makes generic, “one-size fits all” ads ineffective. eCommerce brands that speak clearly to a niche see lower CAC and higher conversion. The key is showing real problem-solving benefits, emotional triggers, and relatable messaging that feels authentic.

Build a content flywheel, not one-off ads

Don’t build campaigns from scratch every time. Instead, create reusable video components — multiple hooks, angles, and visuals — that you can mix, match, and iterate. This gives you dozens of variations from the same footage. It keeps your content pipeline full without constant production. eCommerce brands that adopt this system never “run out of creative,” and they maintain freshness and performance steadily over time.

Testing isn’t optional — it’s the operating system for growth

Elyse emphasizes that constant testing is vital in a rapidly shifting ecosystem. Audience behavior changes, ad features change, and costs change. Brands that keep testing find new opportunities and protect themselves from performance drops. You should allocate budget specifically for experimentation to find new winning angles and audiences. This mindset turns Facebook ads into a reliable growth engine rather than a gamble.

Takeaways:

  • Embracing a growth mindset isn’t just for tech startups—it’s the key to thriving in eCommerce. Stay consistent, test new ideas, and learn quickly from failures.
  • The best marketing teams celebrate experimentation. Elyse Collat says to set aside 20% of your budget for testing wild ideas.
  • Want ads that resonate? Forget perfect polish. Authentic, raw, and even "ugly" creative builds connection and trust faster than anything staged. Culture loves realness—let your brand’s true self come through.
  • Collaboration is king. Empower your creators with brand context, trust their style, and ask for variety. Let every team member, from founders to freelance creators, shape the story.
  • Don’t fear when things get messy during growth—embrace it. Elyse says that staying curious, persistent, and open to failure is how the best cultures scale and adapt in today's fast-changing world.

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Customer Acquisition: Turn Instagram Comments into Customers—Using DM Automation for eCommerce Growth with Mel Eilers, Socially Sound10 Dec 202500:36:06

Mel Eilers has been deep in driving sales from social media for nearly 10 years. Via her agency Socially Sound, Mel now specialises in helping clients get more from their Instagram content by embracing conversational marketing. – Yeah, we’re talking Insta DMs! 

In this episode, Mel shares how eCommerce brands can turn organic engagement into real sales using Instagram DM automation. From boosting conversions to building stronger customer relationships, she reveals the simple steps to make your social content work harder.  

💡 Update from Mel: 

Since recording this episode, ManyChat has now launched its TikTok integration in the US! When Mel shared her “crystal ball” prediction, it was still in beta — but it’s already becoming a reality for brands. 

Dive in:

[04:54] Instagram DM Marketing Shift

[06:14] DM Automation for Marketing Success

[12:11] Organic Content Comes First

[16:09] Streamlining Product Links in DMs

[20:04] "Instagram Automation Tips Explained"

[22:38] ManyChat: Trusted Meta Partner

[25:26] Insider Tips from Mel!

Organic Content Fuels Every Automation

Before you jump into automation, you need strong organic content. Mel explained that DM automation only works if your posts already get real engagement. Think of it as adding fuel to a fire — you need the spark first. Focus on posts that connect with your audience, encourage comments, and reflect your brand’s tone. Once you have that, tools like ManyChat can amplify results and turn engagement into measurable sales or email signups.

Instagram DMs Can Be a Powerful Sales Channel

Instagram DMs are no longer just for customer service. They’re now a direct route to conversions. By using tools like ManyChat, you can automate DMs to deliver product links, discount codes, or signup offers the moment someone comments on your post. This creates a fast, personal, and frictionless buying experience. For eCommerce brands, that means fewer “link in bio” drop-offs and more customers completing their journey right inside Instagram.

Keep It Conversational and Customer-Centric

Automation doesn’t mean losing the human touch. Mel stressed that conversational marketing works best when it feels like a real chat, not a sales script. Keep messages short, friendly, and relevant to what the customer asked for. Always make it easy for them to opt in, explore, or buy without pressure. When automation feels natural and helpful, it builds trust — and that trust drives repeat sales.

Takeaways:

  • Want to turn your engaged Instagram audience into real customers? Build strong organic content, then let DM automation do the heavy lifting. It's not just customer service in the DMs—it's a goldmine for sales and signups.
  • If your organic social posts spark genuine interest, adding tools like ManyChat boosts reach and conversion. But don’t automate before your content truly connects. Automation multiplies what already works!
  • Great conversational marketing feels 1:1, even when automated. Start with clear objectives—do you want email signups or website visitors? The power is in making every DM interaction personal and purposeful.
  • Don’t wear out your followers! Mix behind-the-scenes content with “comment-to-signup” posts. One in three sales-driven posts keeps your audience engaged and avoids the sales soapbox effect.
  • The future? DM automation isn’t stopping with Instagram—TikTok is next. If you’re seeing traction now, get ready to ride the wave as new channels open up for conversational commerce.

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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Customer Acquisition: Using Performance PR to Track, Measure, and Scale Results with Rick Magennis, Spark03 Dec 202500:33:34

Rick Magennis is the owner of Spark, an affiliate management agency focused on Performance PR and creating high-performing affiliate marketing campaigns for their clients.

Rick reveals how to make every PR mention count — by linking it directly to sales. From getting featured in gift guides to scaling affiliate-driven campaigns, this episode is packed with ideas you can put into action right away.

Dive in:

[03:58] "Performance PR Agency Acquisition"

[07:50] Affiliate Marketing for Product Reviews

[11:50] Affiliate-Driven PR Boosts Revenue

[14:24] "Building Trust Through Numbers"

[17:34] Editorial Pitching: Surprises and Strategies

[20:59] Agency Benefits for Brand Growth

[25:02] Insider Tips from Rick!

Make Your PR Work Harder with Performance PR

Traditional PR builds awareness but rarely proves ROI. Performance PR changes that by tying media placements to affiliate links, so you only pay when sales happen. It blends PR visibility with affiliate measurability, giving eCommerce brands clear data on what drives conversions. This means every placement can be tracked, optimized, and scaled. For brands tired of “vanity metrics,” Performance PR is a smarter way to turn exposure into profit.

Relationships Are the Real Currency

Success in Performance PR depends on strong relationships with editors and media outlets. Journalists get hundreds of pitches daily, so connection and trust matter more than clever outreach. Agencies with existing relationships can fast-track your brand into top-tier features and gift guides. It’s not about sending mass emails—it’s about consistent, personal communication. eCommerce brands that invest in relationship-driven PR partners will see better placements and faster traction.

Think Long-Term—This Strategy Takes Time

Performance PR isn’t a quick win. It can take six to twelve months before results start showing, because journalists work on long lead times and organic placements build gradually. But once it clicks, the benefits compound—those articles keep driving sales and SEO value long after they’re published. eCommerce owners should start early, especially if they want strong visibility by the next holiday season. Treat it like a slow-build channel with big long-term payoff, not an overnight campaign.

Takeaways:

  • Performance PR is changing the game—it's all about building real relationships with editors, not just cold emails and AI shortcuts. Value the human touch if you want your brand to stand out and succeed.
  • There’s power in patience: successful affiliate-PR mashups take 6-12 months to really pay off. True cultural shifts in marketing happen when you invest long-term, not just chase quick wins!
  • The secret sauce for customer acquisition today? Combine affiliate tech with good old-fashioned trust. Brands and editors win when you foster genuine collaborations, not just transactions.
  • Traditional PR isn’t dead—it’s just evolved. Affiliate links now mean you can actually see ROI, turning every feature, gift guide, or listicle into measurable impact. Culture meets commerce.
  • Ready to test new ideas? Start performance PR now, but plan to play the long game. Change comes to those who nurture relationships, keep showing up, and bring fresh stories to the table.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/284

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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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TikTok: Building a Profitable TikTok Shop Presence With Creators, Analytics, and Engaging Lives, with Marianne Morrison of Metrimax19 Nov 202500:32:21

Marianne Morrison has been obsessed with retail growth for over a decade. Initially building, growing, and selling her own skincare brand, and now working with many retailers and brands to help them achieve their business growth goals.

In this episode, she’s breaking down how to turn TikTok from a social platform into a serious sales channel — with real-world advice on content, offers, and audience growth that every eCommerce brand can use.

Dive in:

[04:03] "Navigating TikTok for Brands"

[07:38] TikTok Growth Strategy Insights

[12:18] Effective Influencer Collaboration Tips

[14:11] Success on TikTok Requires Offers

[18:02] TikTok Success Requires Planning

[24:39] Insider Tips from Marianne!

TikTok Success Starts with Strategy, Not Virality

Jumping onto TikTok without a plan rarely works. Marianne stresses that you must first know who your audience is and why they’re on TikTok. Then study your competitors and define your own niche before posting or running ads. TikTok rewards brands that show up with purpose and consistency, not those chasing quick wins. Treat it like any other serious marketing channel—start with strategy, not luck.

Authentic, Consistent Content Drives Real Growth

The biggest wins on TikTok come from real, relatable content. Perfectly polished videos don’t connect as well as authentic moments that show the human side of your brand. Post often—daily if possible—and engage with comments and followers. Consistency tells TikTok’s algorithm you’re serious, helping you reach more of your target audience. Authenticity builds trust, and trust drives conversions.

TikTok Shop Rewards Offers and Engagement

TikTok Shop thrives on urgency and deals. Flash sales, limited-time discounts, and free shipping can turn browsers into buyers fast. But you need to plan your offers carefully to protect your margins. Marianne also highlights that live selling is where real engagement happens—brands should go live at least three times a week for an hour or more. The more consistent and interactive you are, the more TikTok rewards you with visibility and sales.

Takeaways:

  • TikTok’s not just about trends—authenticity and passion matter more than ever. Brands that connect honestly with their audience are laying the foundation for lasting success.
  • Strategic action beats random posting on TikTok. Before ads or creators, you need a clear organic content plan and a deep understanding of your audience and competitors. Purpose drives results.
  • Lives on TikTok aren’t magic shortcuts—consistency is key. The algorithm needs time to learn about you. Want results? Commit to regular lives, at least 3 times a week, and let your brand’s energy shine through every session.
  • TikTok Shop thrives on urgency and offers. Flash sales, free shipping, and smart discounts hook buyers. But manage your margins carefully—profitability matters as much as visibility.
  • AI tools are game changers, but don’t lose your brand’s soul. In a world of generic copy, the real power lies in authentic storytelling and honest engagement. Let tech help, but keep your passion at the heart of everything.


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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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TikTok: Driving More TikTok Shop Sales with Expert GMV Max Strategies from Rachel Cryan, Anicca Digital12 Nov 202500:30:19

Rachel Cryan is a Digital Strategist at award-winning digital marketing agency Anicca Digital. She’s been deep in social media for over a decade helping 100s of brands leverage it to grow their sales. Including recently scaling one client to over £1million in revenue through TikTok Shop Ads.

Rachel shares what every eCommerce marketer needs to know about TikTok’s newest ad tool, GMV Max. From how the algorithm actually works to the creative tactics driving six-figure results, this one’s packed with insights you can put into action right away.

Dive in:

[03:41] Content Creation vs Ad Strategy

[06:51] "GMV Max Advertising Insights"

[12:14] "Challenges in Campaign Management"

[13:27] "Adapting to GMV Max Transition"

[18:33] Campaign Video Strategy Challenges

[20:37] Advertising Strategies for Black Friday

[22:31] Insider Tips from Rachel!

TikTok’s GMV Max Changes the Game for TikTok Shop Ads

TikTok has replaced its old ad format for TikTok Shop with a new system called GMV Max. It’s an automated, algorithm-driven tool that decides which products to promote based on engagement and ROI. This means brands have less manual control but can reach more ready-to-buy customers. For eCommerce owners, success now depends on feeding the algorithm the right signals — strong creative, consistent data, and clear goals. You can’t rely on old ad tactics anymore; you have to adapt to how TikTok’s AI wants to sell your products.

Video Creative Is Everything — Especially for TikTok Shop

Your product videos now determine how your ads perform on TikTok Shop. GMV Max rewards content that gets attention and engagement, so the more videos you have, the better your chances. Create a mix of formats — feature demos, user-generated content, and authentic creator clips. Don’t wait for affiliates to do all the work; invest in making your own videos so you can control the story and highlight your product’s best features. For TikTok Shop success, quantity and quality of video content are your biggest levers.

Structure Your Campaigns Smartly to Keep Control

Even though GMV Max is automated, you can still guide it with smart structure. Split your campaigns by product type or performance level — for example, bestsellers, mid-performers, and low-sellers. This helps you manage budget flow and avoid all your ad spend going to just one or two products. It also shows you which products need more content or testing. For eCommerce teams, this structure makes your TikTok ad strategy more focused, scalable, and ready for high-volume seasons like Black Friday.

Takeaways:

  • TikTok Shop is on the rise! If you're a brand, now's the perfect time to join. And for creators, it's a golden age for fresh content – brands are hungry for new videos. The TikTok ecosystem is growing fast. Don’t miss out!
  • GMV Max is changing the TikTok Shop game, making ads more automated and ROI-driven. Brands, focus on creative video content to boost your products—IT’S all about what performs best on TikTok now.
  • Feeling overwhelmed by TikTok’s new GMV Max? Start small: split your campaigns by product performance and create more videos for products that need a push. Control your narrative—and your results!
  • TikTok isn’t just for big brands. Small businesses and new creators have a wide open lane to shine. TikTok’s support and automated tools make it easy to get started—even if you’re new to digital marketing.
  • The new TikTok Shop ad platform makes creative content king. For brands, work with more affiliates, offer better commissions, and experiment with video styles. For creators, there’s real opportunity to grow—and earn!


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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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TikTok: Mastering TikTok Shop Live Streaming – Insider Tips for Six Figure Mega Lives with Ben Muir, Unsociable05 Nov 202500:41:54

Ben Muir is the founder and CEO of Unsociable, one of the top rated TikTok Shop partners in the UK and US. Unsociable are the only partners to have won the TikTok Shop livestreaming award twice, and the video production excellence award.

Learn how brands are hitting six-figure sales on TikTok Live — and how you can too. Ben shares the insider playbook for making live shopping work for your business.

Dive in:

[05:08] TikTok Shops Demands Live Streaming

[08:54] "Showcase vs. Regular Livestreams"

[11:54] Engaging Live Shopping Experiences

[15:09] Maximizing TikTok Targets with Long Lives

[18:35] Real-Time Audience-Led Live Strategy

[22:30] Building Live Streaming Success Takes Time

[23:35] Path to Effective Live Showcases

[28:49] Insider Tips from Ben!

Start Small and Build Toward Big Wins

Don’t rush into a 12-hour TikTok live event. Start by learning how your products perform on the platform. Focus first on going viral with creator videos or affiliate posts. Once your brand gains traction, introduce live streaming to convert that attention into sales. Small, consistent lives help you test what works before scaling up to six-figure showcases.

Plan Live Streams Like Major Product Launches

Successful TikTok lives don’t happen by chance. The best-performing brands treat them like full-scale marketing campaigns. Give your audience a clear reason to show up — a product launch, anniversary, or special offer. Create excitement early through teaser content, influencer support, and email marketing. The more you plan the theme and storytelling, the more engagement and conversions you’ll drive.

Keep Testing and Refreshing to Stay Relevant

TikTok’s algorithm and audiences move fast, so constant testing is key. Try new product bundles, seasonal themes, and surprise elements to keep viewers watching. Study what converts — the words hosts use, how products are presented, and what visuals grab attention. Use that data to improve every live stream. The more you adapt, the longer you’ll stay ahead of competitors and keep sales growing.

Takeaways:

  • The path to a six-figure TikTok Live isn’t instant—it’s all about building up, learning your craft, and understanding what really resonates with your audience before going big. Start small, optimize, then go for the showcase!
  • TikTok Shop’s showcase (UK) and mega live (US) events can turn eCommerce brands into household names. It’s not just about selling, but creating a true event, a reason for people to join and get excited.
  • Don’t rush into livestreaming on TikTok Shop. Ben says to first go viral organically—let the algorithm and community discover you, then tap into live once there’s real momentum. Viral first, live next!
  • The secret sauce for TikTok live success? Continuous testing of product bundles, creative giveaways, and engaging themes that keep customers curious and coming back. Refresh, innovate, and your audience will grow!
  • TikTok Shop actively supports its top sellers, even helping with traffic and subsidizing discounts for big live events. Build your presence and they’ll soon be helping you hit those huge numbers.

 

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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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TikTok: Organic Strategies That Maximize Reach and Results with Beth Thomas, Slice29 Oct 202500:34:19

Beth is a social and influencer strategist with over a decade of experience leading content, social and influencer for some of the most well-known brands, including TikTok and Deliveroo. She’s the co-founder of Slice, a social media consultancy.

Discover how to grow your brand on TikTok without chasing trends. Beth shares proven organic and search-driven strategies for lasting success.

Dive in:

[06:13] Strategic Content Planning for TikTok

[08:36] TikTok's Personalized Content Strategy

[13:23] Integrating Teams for Cross-Platform Success

[16:40] TikTok Content Indexing Tips

[19:15] TikTok Trends: Fleeting Brand Impact

[24:12] Influencer Collaboration Strategy Considerations

[26:43] Optimizing TikTok Collaboration Strategy

[29:12] Insider Tips from Beth!

Start with Strategy, Not Tactics

Before jumping onto TikTok or any social platform, Beth stresses the importance of having a clear social strategy. Instead of just following the latest trends or joining because “everyone else is there,” brands should first determine their goals—whether it’s increasing sales, building awareness, or changing brand perception. By understanding what you want social to do for your brand, you can decide if TikTok is the right platform for you and make more focused decisions about your content and resources.

Focus and Consistency Matter More Than Doing Everything

With TikTok offering a wealth of features and content possibilities, it’s easy for brands—especially those with small teams—to get overwhelmed. Beth’s advice: don’t get distracted by all the options. Instead, honestly assess your resources and pick one or two tactics you can commit to. Then, go all in. Consistency is the key to lasting success on social platforms. Doing a few things very well, over time, is more effective than trying to do everything poorly or sporadically.

Leverage the Power of Social Search and Collaboration

TikTok isn’t just a ‘trending’ platform—it’s quickly becoming a powerful search engine, especially for younger audiences. Beth encourages brands to think about how their content can be discovered over time, not just through the For You Page (FYP), but also via search. Integrate SEO strategies by collaborating with your SEO team and using tools like TikTok’s Creator Search Insights. Also, don’t feel you must create everything yourself; leveraging partnerships with creators and using user-generated content can increase reach and authenticity. Remember to target both niche and broader audiences to expand your impact.

Takeaways:

  • Drowning in to-do’s for TikTok? Beth says: pick ONE or TWO content ideas and go all in. You don’t need to do everything—just do what you can consistently and well for truly organic growth.
  • The real 'targeting' on TikTok is your content. Focus on what your audience actually wants to see, not just what your brand wants to say. It’s the best way to land in their For You Page.
  • Jumping on the latest viral trend? Beth’s advice: pause and ask "why?" Views don’t always equal brand impact. Making memorable, episodic content might serve you better in the long run.
  • Want your TikTok videos to show up in searches? Optimize what you say in your videos, the captions, and even the on-screen text. Social search is growing—time for brands to get strategic.
  • Creators aren’t just for big launches. Work with smaller creators, try different content types, and think about boosting their posts instead of just your own. Collaboration beats chasing every trend.


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**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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TikTok: Scale Your TikTok Lives Sustainably—Avoid Burnout & Grow Sales with Leila Kimiai-Nia, Emoceansdeep22 Oct 202500:35:42

Leila Kimiai-Nia is a business coach at Emoceansdeep, and a former TikTok Shop seller turned trainer. She now helps her clients build their TikTok Shop sales for the long term via livestreams.

Dive in:

[05:01] TikTok Shop Success Through Consistency

[06:51] Bridging Sales and Wellness Gaps

[12:33] "Sustaining Live Streaming Success"

[14:06] Consistent Branding with Multiple Presenters

[18:01] Nervous System Regulation for Burnout

[21:33] Expanding Capacity Through Small Moments

[25:17] Pace Yourself in Content Creation

[28:02] Insider Tips from Leila!

Consistency is the Key to TikTok Growth

TikTok’s algorithm rewards brands that show up regularly. Daily live streams can boost traffic, but only if you can sustain them. Consistency keeps your audience engaged and teaches the algorithm to send you more of the right shoppers. Even if you can’t start daily, stick to a regular schedule that you can handle. Build slowly to avoid overwhelming yourself and losing momentum.

Energy Management Directly Impacts Sales

Live streaming is not just a technical task — it’s a performance. If you are tired or stressed, it shows, and your conversion rates will drop. Leila teaches that nervous system regulation is critical for long-term success. Breathwork, short breaks, and even music can help you reset between streams. Protecting your energy means better results and a business that can grow without burning you out.

Scale with a Team and a Plan

One person cannot handle endless live streams alone. As you grow, bring in affiliate creators and presenters to share the load. Keep everyone aligned with your brand style so the algorithm doesn’t get confused. Use multiple “cogs” — live streaming, affiliates, ads, and content — to scale sustainably. This approach keeps sales strong and prevents you from hitting a plateau.

Takeaways:

  • TikTok Live isn’t just about sales—it’s about emotional stamina. Burnout can kill the vibe, so taking care of your energy and mental health is essential if you want long-term success in live eCommerce.
  • Consistency on TikTok Live powers growth, but don’t let hustle culture push you too far. Start with what you can handle, set boundaries, and scale your frequency only as your capacity grows.
  • Success on TikTok Live isn’t just algorithms and content—it’s knowing yourself. Self-awareness helps you notice stress before it becomes burnout, so you can show up strong and sustainable.
  • Nervous system regulation is the secret weapon for live sellers. Small daily rituals, like deep breathing or a quick dance, train you to handle pressure and stay grounded when the spotlight’s on.
  • Think TV shopping for a new generation—but with fewer breaks and even more pressure. If you want sustainable TikTok Live sales, build a team, rotate hosts, and prioritize wellness alongside revenue.

 

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Pre-Q4: Black Friday Email Checklist + Yotpo Migration Insights with Rich Evans, Get Better15 Oct 202500:37:29

Rich Evans is the founder and reluctant managing director at Get Better an agency focused on building personalised email marketing that helps their clients reach their full growth potential. Clients include Absolute Collagen, Myomaster, and Pott Candles.

Dive in:

[06:05] Yotpo Challenges Klaviyo in eCommerce

[08:17] Feedback and Strategy Issues Uncovered

[12:30] Black Friday Preparation Timeline

[16:14] Pre-Black Friday Preparation Urgency

[17:05] Black Friday: Capturing Customer Insights

[22:51] Email Marketing Insights with Rich

[23:35] Insider Tips from Rich!


Mystery Shop Your Own Website

Rich Evans’ first big tip is simple but powerful — act like a customer. Open your website in an incognito browser and sign up for your own popup. Follow the entire journey from signup to receiving the first email to making a purchase. This lets you spot broken flows, confusing steps, or missing discounts before your real customers do. Fixing these issues now can dramatically improve your conversions before Black Friday.

Collect Zero-Party Data for Smarter Marketing

Black Friday is a chance to build your list, not just drive sales. Ask new customers simple questions like whether they’re shopping for themselves or buying a gift. This small piece of data lets you personalize follow-up emails and offers, keeping customers engaged after peak season. It prevents irrelevant messages that cause unsubscribes. The more relevant your marketing, the more likely you’ll turn one-time buyers into repeat customers.

Act Quickly if You’re Affected by Yotpo’s Exit

For brands still using Yotpo email, time is critical. Migrate before Black Friday or risk broken campaigns during the busiest time of year. Rich stresses that while Yotpo’s decision was right, the timing is tough. Don’t wait until December — make a plan now and switch to a stable platform like Klaviyo, Omnisend, or another trusted provider. Acting early avoids chaos and ensures you have time to test everything before peak traffic hits.

Takeaways:

  • Partnerships are at the heart of growth—not just in business, but in culture. Connect, collaborate, and be laser-focused in your niche. The impact of genuine networks will always serve you right.
  • Email marketing isn’t just tech: it’s about truly knowing your customers. Ask if they’re buying for themselves or gifting—tiny questions, huge insights for personalized experiences and better relationships.
  • Cultural shifts happen fast—remember the YOTPO email exit? Adaptability and supportive networks help brands survive even public shakeups. Don’t rely on hype—understand what really matters.
  • When optimizing your actions, start by experiencing your own customer journey. Perspective breeds empathy, insight, and real improvement—not just more data.
  • AI’s rise is changing how we work, but beware of overusing it. Leverage it to enhance your creativity, not replace it. People crave authenticity—tech is best when it supports, not suppresses, your unique voice.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/278



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Pre-Q4: The Silent Killer of eCommerce Profits: Fix Your Tracking Before Peak with Wesley Hartley, Leaf08 Oct 202500:38:23

Wesley Hartley is Chief Commercial Officer at Leaf. Leaf is a technology and data science company delivering performance intelligence solutions for next-gen eCommerce brands. And they've recently launched a new conversion tracking & monitoring solution called Leaf Signal. 

Dive in:

[05:00] "From Downloads to Engagement Focus"

[08:54] Effective Facebook Ad Data Strategies

[10:00] "eCommerce Tracking: A Critical Gap"

[14:09] "First-Party Cookie Solutions Explained"

[19:08] Core eCommerce Tracking Essentials

[21:53] "Optimizing GA4 and Google Ads"

[27:09] Insider Tips from Wesley!

[34:22] To get your free website tracking & conversion audit, visit leafsignal.com  


Tracking Is the First Profit Lever, Not an Afterthought

Many eCommerce brands focus on ad creative and budgets but ignore tracking. Wesley explains that tracking is the foundation of profitable paid media. If your data is broken or incomplete, ad platforms cannot optimize properly. This means wasted spend and poor targeting. Fixing tracking should be your priority before scaling campaigns.

Capture the Right Events to Power Smarter Ads

Wesley highlights five must-have events: page view, product view, add-to-cart, checkout, and purchase. These give ad platforms the signals they need to target the right buyers. Missing mid-funnel events leads to weaker smart bidding and retargeting. Even small tracking gaps can cost you revenue. Capturing full event data — including product and customer details — gives you a big edge.

Tracking Isn’t “Set and Forget” — Monitor It Continuously

Even if your tracking is correct today, it can break tomorrow. Cookie banner changes, site updates, or platform shifts can silently stop data from flowing. That means ad performance suffers, often without you noticing. Wesley recommends using monitoring tools or specialists to keep tracking healthy. Treat tracking as an ongoing process, not a one-time task. 

Takeaways:

  • Data-driven marketing is everything, but your tracking must be right! If your data isn’t accurate, your ad spend loses impact. Make tracking & analytics a priority—profitability depends on it.
  • Think your eCom tracking’s bulletproof? Most brands have gaps—sometimes they’re losing big, and don’t know it! Regular audits and expert input can uncover serious wins.
  • Relying on basic tracking apps alone isn’t enough, especially as privacy rules evolve. Control your data, hire real specialists, and keep up with compliance for sustainable growth.
  • Don’t just focus on ad creatives—without quality tracking, the platforms can’t optimize for real results. Data is what trains algorithms to drive profit and retention.
  • Tracking isn’t “set and forget.” With privacy changes and new tech, constant monitoring is key. Today’s good data flow could break tomorrow—stay alert and build resilience for peak seasons.


Episode sponsored by Leaf Signal. To get your free website tracking & conversion audit, visit leafsignal.com.

Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/277



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Pre-Q4: Media Buying 101 – How to Test, Measure, and Scale TV & OOH Campaigns with Karolina Lapinaite, Precis01 Oct 202500:39:45

Karolina Lapinaite is Head of Media at global marketing agency Precis. Working with big global brands from many sectors, she’s all about putting together the on and offline media campaigns that drive BIG results.

Dive in:

[06:30] Targeted Advertising Strategy Insights

[08:22] "Ad Strategy: Broad vs. Targeted"

[11:00] Campaign Strategies: Social vs. Traditional

[15:28] Strategic Media Planning for Brands

[18:54] Out-of-Home Advertising Strategy

[20:26] Flexible Creative Timing

[25:02] Evolving Ad Strategies and Analytics

[27:43] Attention Economy and Brand Focus

[29:45] Insider Tips from Karolina!

Strategy Comes First — Always

Karolina stressed that media buying should start with a clear strategy, not a channel decision. Don’t just say, “Let’s run some TV ads.” First, know your audience and define your goals. Then figure out what data you have and how to use it. Only after that do you choose the best media to reach your audience. This keeps your campaigns focused and cost-effective.

TV and Billboards Aren’t Just for Big Brands

Gone are the days when out-of-home and TV were only for companies with huge budgets. Thanks to digital platforms, it’s easy and affordable to book specific locations, times, and screens. Smaller brands can run highly targeted campaigns in just one city or even around a single store. This approach saves money while still building brand awareness. You can test on a small scale before committing to a big spend.

Test, Measure, and Learn

Measurement isn’t perfect, but it’s better than ever. Use surveys and brand lift studies to see if awareness is growing. Combine that with data models to track trends and spot what’s working. Karolina also encouraged geo-testing — run ads in one location and compare it to a control area. This approach helps you make smarter decisions and improve campaigns over time.

Takeaways:

  • The digital shift in “traditional” media means even small brands can try TV spots or billboards. It’s not just big budgets anymore—strategy and creativity matter more than ever.
  • Want real impact? Start with your strategy: who’s your audience, what data do you have, and then find the right channels. Don’t just follow the crowd—test, learn, and refine.
  • Out of home isn’t just broad reach—digital buying lets you target locations, times, and even tailor creative. Local focus is easier and more affordable than you think.
  • Measurement in media is evolving; don’t expect perfect data, but look for patterns and trends. Think uplift, attention, and the bigger picture—not just clicks.
  • Testing isn’t just A/B colors. Try geo-tests, new platforms, creative angles—sometimes the untapped channels are where your competition isn’t looking.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/276



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Pre-Q4: Why Podcast Advertising Works (and How to Use It This Peak Season) with Anna Ratala, RedCircle24 Sep 202500:37:20

Anna Ratala is the Marketing Director at podcast advertising platform RedCircle. She’s been DEEP in the world of podcast advertising since 2020 helping all sorts of business growth their revenue from podcast advertising.

Dive in:

[04:58] Podcast Advertising Platform Launch & Closure

[08:17] Podcast Engagement vs. Social Media

[10:36] Identifying Suitable Show Categories

[15:06] Authentic Ads Boost Engagement

[18:21] Tracking Website Visits from Podcasts

[20:10] Podcast Ad Campaign Timeline

[23:00] Podcast Rotation Strategy

[26:05] Insider Tips from Anna!

Podcast Advertising Captures True Attention and Engaged Audiences

Unlike social media ads, where consumers quickly scroll and attention is fragmented, podcast listeners are highly engaged. Anna explains that most listeners are loyal fans who choose to spend significant time with each episode. When hosts discuss a brand, listeners are “really there, listening and engaged,” making it easier for brands to cut through the noise and connect meaningfully. This level of attention leads to better ROI and makes podcast advertising a powerful direct response channel for eCommerce and DTC brands.

Strategic Show Selection & Host-Read Ads Are Essential

Anna underscores that successful podcast advertising isn’t just about picking obvious show categories. Thinking beyond the obvious—like advertising wellness products on true crime podcasts with large female audiences—can uncover even better results. She also emphasizes that host-read ads dramatically outperform generic, programmatic ads. Instead of enforcing scripts, advertisers should provide talking points, letting hosts deliver endorsements in their own voice for maximum authenticity and impact.

Modern Tools Make Podcast Ad Performance Trackable and Optimizable

A major barrier to podcast advertising used to be poor measurement and laborious manual processes. That’s no longer the case. Today, brands can use attribution pixels to track listeners who visit their website after hearing an ad, providing real data to evaluate campaign performance. Anna suggests treating podcast ads as an ongoing, test-and-optimize channel, similar to paid social. Start with a rotation of shows, double down on top-performers, replace poor performers, and steadily refine your campaign. With budgets starting at around $20–25k for meaningful results, podcast advertising is now a robust, measurable channel for growth, not just awareness.

Takeaways:

  • Podcast advertising stands out because listeners are engaged and loyal to their favorite shows. Instead of chasing attention, brands on podcasts capture it. ROI is higher, and performance is easier to track than ever before.
  • The best podcast ad? Let the host speak in their own voice. Authentic recommendations connect with audiences and drive real action.
  • Podcast listeners aren’t just background noise—they’re invested. Whether it’s a true crime series or a wellness chat, the connection is personal. Even unexpected show genres can become powerful brand partners.
  • Thinking about reallocating ad budgets? Anna suggests you can launch a podcast campaign in just a couple weeks—and track site visits as your first sign of real engagement.
  • Testing podcast ads this peak season could give you an edge. Start with shows your customer loves. Rotate, refine, and keep optimizing—commit to ongoing campaigns for maximum growth.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/275 



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Pre-Q4: Embracing AI in eCommerce Marketing—Strategies for Time-Saving and Growth with Lucy Bloomfield17 Sep 202500:35:10

Once upon a time, Lucy Bloomfield ran her own eCommerce skincare business and achieved crazy levels of growth. And since 2018 she’s been helping other business owners to achieve huge leaps in sales without allowing the rest of the business to fall apart. She’s now pivoted into technology with the launch of her epic marketing tool “Magic Marketer”.

Dive in:

[03:12] "Insights from eCommerce Expert Lucy"

[08:19] Streamlining Work Beyond AI Concerns

[10:19] Automation Paradox: More Grind Created

[15:37] Optimizing Marketing Efficiency

[17:04] "Efficiency Boost with Magic Marketer"

[21:53] Adopt or Build Your Own System?

[23:57] Experience Over Profit: Magic Marketer

[25:42] Insider Tips from Lucy!

The True Power of AI Isn’t (Just) Copywriting—It’s Automation and Time-Saving

While many marketers think of AI tools like ChatGPT or built-in functionalities in platforms as handy ways to speed up copywriting, Lucy emphasizes the bigger opportunity: eliminating repetitive admin and manual “copy-paste” tasks that drain hourly resources. By integrating smart, centralized AI, marketers can drastically reduce campaign creation. This “buying back time” frees staff to focus on creative, strategic, and high-leverage marketing initiatives, instead of getting stuck in operational grind.

Centralizing Your AI Is Key to True Efficiency

Lucy explains the main difference between traditional AI features (like those in individual platforms) and a purpose-built centralized AI: context and integration. Standalone AIs in channels like Klaviyo or Meta only see a slice of your business. A central AI that plugs directly into your Shopify store and connected tools has the bigger picture. This means it learns not only your product and brand voice, but also your sales patterns, margins, and overall strategies. The result? More coherent, synchronized, higher-performing campaigns—plus, no more training multiple disconnected AIs or endless data copy-and-paste.

Don’t Wait for Magic—Start Gradually, but Start Now

If overhauling your entire marketing workflow for AI isn’t feasible this season, Lucy advocates for taking even small steps. Use ChatGPT for first-draft copy; explore automation tools like Zapier or Make.com for repetitive tasks; and look for ways to systematize your working process. As AI-integrated tools and true data-central “brains” mature, brands that start experimenting and automating now will be miles ahead in efficiency and effectiveness just in time for peak season.

Takeaways:

  • AI is transforming eCommerce marketing—not just with better copy, but by automating the grind, freeing up teams for real strategy and creativity. Embrace tools that save time, so you can focus on big-picture thinking.
  • Instead of brainstorming new promotions every year, build on last year's campaigns. Refining proven ideas gives better results and lets you truly optimize—innovation doesn't mean reinventing the wheel every time.
  • The best eCommerce marketers are shifting from doing everything themselves to overseeing smart, AI-driven systems. Your value grows as you guide and elevate, not just execute.
  • Waiting for your current tools to get smarter with AI might hold you back. Centralized solutions tap into your real data across channels—think less copy-paste, more cohesion and impact.
  • Tech like Magic Marketer isn’t about replacing marketers, but about lifting the burden so you can amplify results. It’s about reducing stress, gaining space to think creatively, and pushing your business forward.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/274



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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Marketplaces: How to Optimise Your Amazon Ads for Maximum Profit and Traffic with George Meressa, Clear Ads10 Sep 202500:33:45

George Meressa is the CEO and Founder at Clear Ads, an expert Amazon Advertising Agency. Founded in 2011, they’ve helped 100s of brands from around the world increase their Amazon sales.

Dive in:

[05:04] Amazon Fees Impact Sellers' Profits

[06:41] Amazon's Key Focus: Conversion Rate

[12:39] Efficient Amazon Product Research

[15:47] Optimizing Sponsored Brand Ads

[18:13] Monitor Sales and Competitor Trends

[20:41] "Optimizing Sales with DSP Advertising"

[25:29] Insider Tips from George!

The 4 Levels of Amazon Ads

George breaks Amazon ads into four simple levels.

  • Level 1 is brand registry and exact-match keywords — the foundation every seller needs.
  • Level 2 adds auto campaigns to find new keywords and scale what works.
  • Level 3 introduces sponsored brand ads and defensive tactics to block competitors.
  • Level 4 is DSP, Amazon’s programmatic ads, which let you reach new audiences at scale but require bigger budgets.


Follow this roadmap step by step to grow your sales with less wasted spend.

Conversion Rate is the Real King

Amazon doesn’t just care about clicks. They make money when people buy, so conversion rate is the most important metric. A low conversion rate will hurt your ads, even if you’re spending a lot. Stock levels, delivery speed, and reviews all impact it. Keep improving these areas to win more sales and keep Amazon’s algorithm on your side.

Outsmart Competitors with ASIN Targeting

You don’t have to win only through search keywords. With ASIN targeting, you can place ads directly on competitor product pages. If their reviews are weak or prices are high, your product becomes the better choice. This strategy lets you “steal” sales from people already shopping for similar items. It’s a clever way to get ahead in crowded categories.

Takeaways:

  • The Amazon ads game keeps evolving—conversion rate is now king! Success isn’t just about showing up, it’s about winning the click and the purchase. Don’t get lazy: keep optimizing your conversion rate to stay on top and outpace the competition.
  • Launching your first Amazon ads? Start with brand registry—not just to protect your name, but to unlock powerful analytics gold. Real data > guesswork. Give your campaigns a running start with insight, not just ad spend.
  • Rethink “set it and forget it.” Amazon is always shifting what appears at the top of the page, so don’t just watch numbers—search the platform, investigate the landscape, and react fast. Culture is as much about agility as analysis.
  • Don’t chase every shiny tool. New ad features arrive weekly, but focus is key: sponsored product ads, exact-match keywords, and clever targeting will beat scattergun tactics every time. Smart, simple strategies scale culture and sales.
  • Collaboration beats gurus every time. Skip the Lambo influencers and connect with real Amazon sellers. Authentic peer learning and honest conversations set the tone for a culture of genuine growth, not overnight hacks.


Find the notes here: https://keepopt.com/273 



**** Get all the links and resources we mention & join our email list at https://keepopt.com Love the show? Chloe would love your feedback - leave a review here: https://keepopt.com/review or reply to the episode Q&A on Spotify. Interested in being a Sponsor? go here: https://keepopt.com/sponsor

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