Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Katherine Sakovich, CMO at Mira, shares how Mira scaled from chaos to a multi‑product hormonal health platform via community-led, educative marketing. Highlights explore positioning tactics, messaging for sensitive journeys, product‑marketing integration, and the evolving role of AI.

Key Moments:

• Built early beta‑tester community into 18,000-member brand ambassador network
• Laid tagline-offfer-tested messaging over media buys to human stories
• Designed marketing hires as strategic freelancers to scale
• Used beta feedback to inform educational and emotional copy strategy
• Layered performance media once trust and voice were grounded
• Positioned each product launch like an iPhone upgrade for community anticipation
• Partner-generated webinars (with doctors) became evergreen funnel assets
• Deployed AI in support and fraud prevention—still cautious with patient‑facing AI

Timestamps

00:00 Katherine’s journey to becoming CMO at Mira

02:00 Launching Mira from scratch and early growth strategies

06:00 First key marketing hires and team structure

08:00 How Mira built community and organic traction

13:00 Webinar strategy and content wheel for education

16:00 How product launches fueled Mira’s long-term growth

20:00 In-house vs agency media buying and working with Pilothouse

24:00 Partnership strategies that actually worked

27:00 Mira’s next phase of growth and top-of-funnel focus

30:00 How Mira uses AI in support, creative, and operations

33:00 Favorite SaaS tools and tech stack powering Mira

Hashtags

#DTCMarketing #HealthTech #FemTech #StartupGrowth #CMOInsights #CommunityMarketing #ContentStrategy #MediaBuying #EcommerceStrategy #DirectToConsumer

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

DTC professionals: discover why Amazon demands a unique strategy, not a copy‑paste from your DTC playbook.

In this episode with Pilothouse Amazon Brain Trust, Rob & Clifford unpack:

• Why treating Amazon as “free traffic” undermines growth
• Best practices in listing creative, SEO, and media segmentation
• How to avoid wasted cost chasing irrelevant keywords
• Implications of Amazon’s upcoming prep service cutoff in Jan 2026
• Why anonymous star ratings in seller feedback pose new risks

Listen to learn:

• Effective PPC structuring: exact, phrase, competitor campaigns
• Real‑world examples of spend optimization in running‑shoe brands
• Defensive tactics before Amazon’s policy changes go live

Timestamps

00:00 Common Amazon misconceptions from DTC brands

02:00 Why treating Amazon like DTC doesn’t work

04:00 How to approach Amazon like retail

06:00 Amazon ad spend mistakes and missed ROAS

10:00 Clifford’s rant on seller feedback changes

17:00 Amazon ends prep and labeling services

20:00 Why brands now care more about buyer location

24:00 Questions to ask your Amazon agency

28:00 Automation vs manual control in Amazon ads

Hashtags

#AmazonStrategy #DTCBrands #SellerFeedback #AmazonAds #EcommerceMarketing #AgencyTips #FBA #AmazonUpdates #PerformanceMarketing #DigitalCommerce

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Yuki Kinoshita returns to the DTC Podcast with an inside look at how Plufl turned viral buzz into sustainable growth. Since his first appearance, the brand has passed $4M in sales, added new SKUs like the Hugl cooling pillow, and faced a near-$8M retail setback due to sudden U.S. tariffs.

In this episode, Yuki breaks down how Plufl:

Navigated a 145% import tariff while keeping prices stable

Cut landed costs by $10+ per unit by reengineering their packaging

Transitioned from novelty product to year-round problem-solver

Leveraged creator content and press placements to power top-of-funnel

Used customer pain points to inform product development

For DTC founders navigating platform volatility, sourcing challenges, and product innovation, this episode delivers tactical insight.

Timestamps:

00:00 How Plufl went viral and dealt with knockoffs

02:00 Shark Tank, tariffs, and losing $7M in retail deals

08:00 Why Vietnam manufacturing isn’t always cheaper

12:00 Cutting COGS with packaging and operations

18:00 The product that made Plufl profitable year-round

24:00 Creating pet-parent solutions from customer feedback

28:00 Seven figures from QVC and shopping networks

32:00 PR, gift guides, and listicles as growth levers

34:00 TikTok creator seeding and whitelisting strategy

38:00 What’s next for Plufl and the founders

Hashtags:

#d2cpodcast #plufl #dtcbrands #founderstory #ecommercegrowth #retailstrategy #tiktokmarketing #tariffimpact #prstrategy #productlaunch

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

This episode dives deep into how Pilothouse treats content (video/still/UGC/EGC) as the primary growth lever entering Q4. They share frameworks for sourcing, testing, and iterating content to keep a creative pipeline fresh, attention‑grabbing, and funnel‑optimized.

Why it matters to marketers/entrepreneurs:

• Video drives cold traffic; static drives conversions in retargeting
• Diverse creator mix fuels testing for persona resonance
• Quick intro tweaking ( ess than 5 sec) can reignite stale top creatives
• Systems prevent creative decay and rising CPAs as ad costs increase

Key moments & insights:

• Content + system more than polished single visuals
• Dividing creative types: CGC, UGC, EGC
• Stock your creative trove by May–June for Q4 readiness
• Testing hooks at 3‑5 seconds yields outsized returns
• When a top ad slows, pause it to surface the next best performer

Timestamps:

00:00 Setting Up Q4 Creative Systems

02:00 Why Video Is Essential for Q4 Growth

04:00 The Three Types of Video: CGC, UGC, EGC

08:00 The Power of Employee-Generated Content

12:00 Using Video vs. Static Creatives on Meta

16:00 Creative Refresh Cycles and Testing Systems

20:00 Beating the Winning Ad: Iteration Strategies

22:00 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Hashtags:

#q4strategy #facebookads #ugc #creativeoptimization #d2cpodcast #egc #digitalmarketing #videomarketing #metaads #growthmarketing

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this bonus episode of the DTC Podcast, we reconnect with Liam Millward, Co-Founder & CEO of Instant, the retention marketing platform helping top e‑commerce brands turn anonymous traffic into incremental revenue. Instant installs in minutes, identifies up to 40% of previously unknown visitors, and triggers branded email flows through Klaviyo—no manual setup required.

https://instant.one

Why DTC listeners should care:

As acquisition costs rise and margins tighten, converting the traffic you’re already paying for is non-negotiable. Liam shares how Instant helps brands like ThirdLove, Truly Beauty, and Karen Kane generate compounding email revenue—often seeing 11–21x ROI in weeks, not months.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Instant identifies and emails 40% of anonymous visitors
• What makes Instant AI’s flows more effective (and hands-free)
• Real-world case studies showing rapid, scalable email revenue growth
• Why retention teams are using Instant as their co-pilot for Q4 prep
• What separates brands who see huge value vs. those who don’t

If your site gets traffic but your email list isn’t growing fast enough—and your flows aren’t converting as they should—this is the bonus episode to get ahead before Q4.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Why 98% of website traffic goes unidentified

02:00 - Instant's founding story and mission

04:30 - How brands can prep for Q4 success

08:00 - Turning traffic into ROI through identification

10:00 - Instant's results with brands like Liquid IV

13:00 - Compounding revenue through retention

16:00 - Who Instant is best suited for

18:00 - A/B testing and measuring incrementality

21:00 - Automating flows with Instant AI

24:00 - What's next for Instant

Hashtags:

#dtcpodcast #ecommercetips #blackfridaystrategy #emailmarketing #conversionrateoptimization #q4prep #retentionmarketing #klaviyo #incrementalrevenue #marketingautomation #shopperidentification #directtoconsumer #growthstrategy #founderstory #metaads

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of the DTC Podcast, we speak with Marnie Rabinovitch, founder of Thigh Society, the size-inclusive brand known for anti-chafe slip shorts. Marnie shares the origin story behind the product: a personal, frustrating experience with thigh chafe that sparked her to create something that simply didn’t exist—lightweight, breathable long-leg underwear that isn’t shapewear.

She bootstrapped the brand with $8K in savings, grew it slowly while working full-time, and only went all-in when the opportunity was undeniable. Thigh Society has since sold over 2 million pairs, thanks to Meta ads, creator content, and a product that customers evangelize.

Highlights:

• Product-market fit came from real lived pain
• Paid Meta ads drove both growth and PR
• Founder content outperforms typical brand campaigns
• Lean team; fully remote, fully freelance
• Resisted wholesale early to focus on simplicity and DTC margins
• SEO and content strategy born from the words customers actually use

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Book a quick demo by August 1 to get your first month free and unlock a new incremental revenue channel before Q4: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps:

00:00 The origin of Thigh Society

03:00 Solving a real pain point with long-leg underwear

08:00 Bootstrapping with $8K and building a prototype

12:00 Growing to $500K with no paid ads

18:00 Use cases beyond chafing: sweat, comfort, modesty

22:00 Meta ads and why founder content works

29:00 Why Thigh Society stayed DTC

34:00 Paid social leads to organic PR

36:00 Direct response ads over brand-building

38:00 How SEO and organic language drive rankings

Hashtags:

#DTC

#ThighSociety

#FounderStory

#EcommercePodcast

#DirectToConsumer

#MetaAds

#BootstrappedBusiness

#ProductMarketFit

#AntiChafe

#ChubRubSolution

#WomenInBusiness

#ComfortWear

#StartupJourney

#ShopifyBrand

#CustomerRetention

#OrganicGrowth

#UnderwearForWomen

#CreatorContent

#SEOForEcommerce

#AuthenticMarketing

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this week's AKNF DTC Podcast discover how Pilothouse’s TikTok Shop division empowers DTC brands to build self-sustaining commerce systems on TikTok.

With Senior Account Manager Debbie, we unpack:

• 🎯 GMV Max ads — TikTok’s new all-in-one ad format requiring strong creative engines
• 🤝 Affiliate network strategy — powering 80%+ of TikTok Shop conversions
• ✨ Organic-first creative — viral hooks for content that grabs attention
• 💡 Community and “halo effect” — how TikTok presence fuels off-platform sales

Why listen:

• Understand TikTok’s unique commerce ecosystem
• Learn how GMV Max changes ad creative strategy
• Get tactical advice on building affiliates and viral hooks
• See why TikTok strengthens broader brand ROI

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Book a quick demo by August 1 to get your first month free and unlock a new incremental revenue channel before Q4: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps:

00:00 TikTok vs Meta: Platform Potential & Challenges

02:00 Introducing GMV Max: TikTok’s New Ad Framework

04:20 Organic Content Strategies by Brand Type

06:45 Affiliate Marketing Drives TikTok Shop Sales

08:45 Understanding TikTok's Affiliate Ecosystem

11:00 Live Selling on TikTok: Infomercial Vibes & Limitations

13:20 Viral Moments & TikTok’s Unreliable Growth Pattern

15:00 Brand Examples: Pine-Sol, Sour Patch Kids & Going Viral

17:00 Viral Hook Strategies That Drive Attention

18:40 High-GMV Affiliates & Retainer Collaborations

20:00 How Pilothouse Onboards Brands to TikTok

21:30 AI in TikTok Strategy: Where It Fits and Where It Doesn’t

22:45 The Future of TikTok: Regulation, Chaos & Optimism

Hashtags:

#TikTokShop

#DTCMarketing

#AffiliateMarketing

#SocialCommerce

#TikTokAds

#ContentStrategy

#ViralMarketing

#EcommerceTips

#GMVMax

#PilotHouse

#DTCGrowth

#OrganicContent

#TikTokStrategy

#LiveSelling

#TikTokAffiliate

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of the DTC Podcast, we dive into the results of a survey of over 600 DTC brand operators, conducted in partnership with Keen Decision Systems. With Q4 2025 shaped by shifting tariffs, tight margins, and uncertain demand, we speak with Justin Jefferson, VP of Strategy & Insights at Keen, to unpack how brands are (and aren’t) preparing for what’s ahead.

You can access the full Q4 Planning & Profitability Report here: https://www.directtoconsumer.co/newsletter/inside-q4-what-dtc-operators-are-seeing-saying-and-planning

If you’re interested in the latest trends in marketing spend and performance, explore Keen’s insights dashboard. It’s continuously updated with timely, actionable data to help you stay ahead.

Justin shares real-world insights into how leading DTC brands are making smarter decisions through scenario planning, forecasting, and more disciplined budget allocation—while calling out the traps many fall into, from knee-jerk cuts to overreliance on ROAS.

Why less than 7% of brands are confident in their Q4 forecasts—and how to fix it

The danger of reactive planning and the real meaning of agility

How scenario modeling helps brands balance margin defense with long-term growth

Why ROAS is outdated, and the move toward marginal ROI and long-term profitability modeling

What large brands do differently: disciplined investment, top-of-funnel steadiness, and planning across multiple economic conditions

How to rethink testing budgets and ensure you’re not starting Q1 blind

This episode is for any brand operator looking to survive—and strategically grow—through an unpredictable Q4.

Timestamps:

00:00 Understanding Q4 Uncertainty in 2025

02:58 Why Contingency Planning Matters

05:55 Top vs Bottom Funnel Spending Strategy

08:13 Preparing for Margin Pressure and Tariffs

11:45 How Mature Brands Avoid Going Dark

14:20 The Problem with Relying on ROAS

17:22 What to Know Before Scaling Experimental Budgets

20:06 Underrated Ad Channels That Work

22:58 Real Case Study: Avoiding Costly Inventory Mistakes

26:30 Final Tips for Smarter Weekly Spend

Hashtags:

#dtcpodcast

#q4planning

#ecommercemarketing

#digitalmarketing

#keendecisioning

#roas

#marketingstrategy

#tariffs

#marketingbudget

#d2cpodcast

#customeracquisition

#topfunnel

#brandstrategy

#marketinginsights

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Welcome to the DTC Podcast with Sarah Hoffman of Maker Wine — a deep dive into how Maker is rewriting the rules for wine. We cover:

✅ Addressing canned-wine stigma with quality-first sourcing

✅ Virtual tastings as a viral DTC engine

✅ Omni-channel scaling from club to airlines

✅ Smart SEO and content strategy for brand discovery

Key Takeaways:

• Premium sourcing & format matters – quality wine in cans changes perception
• Storytelling + education – QR codes, tasting notes, videos build trust
• Subscription evolution – customizable, exclusive member benefits
• Distribution edge – club sales, wholesale rollout, United partnership
• Content & community – blogs and events build brand and SEO cred

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Book a quick demo by August 1 to get your first month free and unlock a new incremental revenue channel before Q4: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction & Maker Wine’s Omnichannel Pivot

02:00 From Beer to Wine: Sarah’s Founder Story

06:00 Why Most Canned Wine Fails (And How Maker Does It Differently)

10:58 Virtual Tastings as a Growth Engine

16:59 From DTC to United Airlines: Maker’s Distribution Strategy

22:55 Retail Marketing & Wine Club Strategy

27:00 SEO, Creator Partnerships & Low Sugar Positioning

32:50 Expansion Plans & NBA Arena Partnerships

35:00 How Maker Showcases Diverse Winemakers

Hashtags:

#dtcpodcast

#makerwine

#cannedwine

#directtoconsumer

#founderstory

#beveragestartup

#wineclub

#virtualtasting

#retailstrategy

#seoformarketers

#ecommercestrategy

#winebranding

#femaleentrepreneurs

#omnichannelmarketing

#independentwinemakers

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Today's AKNF DTC Podcast Episode features the first ever episode from our sister podcast Ad-Venturous with Avery Valerio.

Make sure to subscribe to Avery's podcast here:

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/ad-venturous/episodes/EP-1-A-Peanut-Butter-Sandwich-Could-Always-Lead-to-Disaster-e32himd

We see more ads in our day-to-day lives than ever before and yet most of them… kind of suck. What happened to the days of adventurous marketing? Alongside creative thinkers from a vast variety of professional backgrounds, we’re diving deep into our favorite (and least favorite 🌚) ads of all time to find out how they helped to shape today’s cultural landscape.

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Book a quick demo by August 1 to get your first month free and unlock a new incremental revenue channel before Q4: ⁠instant.one/dtc

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro to Ad-venturous and Avery's mission

02:50 Why ads today lack creativity

05:15 The genius behind Got Milk’s ad strategy

10:20 What modern marketers can learn from comments

17:45 Full breakdown of the Aaron Burr Got Milk commercial

24:00 Why trusting your creative process matters

26:30 Avery’s top ad creation and research tips

29:00 The power of group brainstorms in ad ideation

33:00 Final tips for refining and evolving ad creative

Hashtags:

#CreativeStrategy

#MarketingPodcast

#AdvertisingTips

#GotMilkAd

#AdBreakdown

#DTCMarketing

#AdCreationProcess

#ContentThatConverts

#BrandStorytelling

#DigitalMarketingInsights

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

To Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of the Pilothouse DTC Podcast, Laura Thompson & Connie Lo share how they built Three Ships Beauty from a condo‑kitchen startup to scaling to 8 figure omnichannel success. They discuss:

• 🚀 Defining natural vs. clean beauty: How transparency earned consumer trust
• 💡 Retail playbook: Landing shelf space is just step one—sales support and in‑store education are mission‑critical
• 📈 Digital growth formula: Founder‑led storytelling + trial offers + micro influencers = scalable ROI
• 🧩 Creative strategy: Batch filming, repurposing UGC and press assets, and optimizing creative across channels
• 💰 Fundraising timing: Align rounds with milestones, pitch with professional decks, and nurture a warm investor funnel

Why listen?

• Learn how to convert transparency into trust
• Build consistent retail momentum beyond shelf presence
• Avoid influencer spending mistakes and double down on trial‑focused growth
• See how to structure marketing and fundraising your way to scale

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Book a quick demo by August 1 to get your first month free and unlock a new incremental revenue channel before Q4: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps:

00:00 - Why transparency helped Three Ships take off

02:00 - From condo kitchen to major retail shelves

06:00 - Clean vs. natural vs. green beauty explained

12:00 - Building products with consumer input

17:00 - Early retail wins and mistakes

21:00 - What paid media strategies work today

27:00 - Influencer marketing mistakes and what to avoid

32:00 - Creative collaboration across teams

37:00 - PR and affiliate marketing insights

41:00 - How they raised $1.4M in two weeks

Hashtags:

#DTCBeauty

#ThreeShipsBeauty

#StartupJourney

#EcommerceMarketing

#CleanBeauty

#FounderStories

#InfluencerMarketing

#PRStrategy

#PaidMediaTips

#RetailSuccess

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this no-fluff edition of All Killer No Filler, Jordan Gordon lays out the retention blueprint based on four fundamental customer cohort types. Whether you're selling one-time purchases or building a subscription empire, this episode helps you build the right post-purchase flows, campaign cadence, and automation strategies based on your actual repeat data.

Key Takeaways:

• Acquisition Cohorts need evergreen “gauntlets” — front-loaded automation built once, used forever
• Balanced Cohorts benefit most from segmented post-purchase flows that drive 30-60 day repeat
• Retention-Heavy Cohorts (like consumables) should use SMS and social to boost LTV
• Subscription Cohorts must push trials and upgrades fast — packaging insert CTAs and paid retargeting are key

This episode isn't just about theory. It's about practical segmentation and flows to extract every dollar of LTV your cohorts are ready to give — without wasting effort on email trees that don't convert.

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps

00:00 - Four cohort profiles every DTC brand must know

03:00 - How to approach retention for acquisition-focused brands

08:00 - Email gauntlet strategies that boost first purchases

10:00 - Tactics for balanced brands to drive second purchases

17:00 - Segmented post-purchase flows vs. clean funnel approach

22:00 - Classic retention businesses and high-frequency repeat tactics

27:00 - Subscription-first brands and why LTV hinges on autoship

33:00 - Building effective replenishment and subscription paths

36:00 - Why inboxing, volume, and content drive retention success

38:00 - Cohort analysis frameworks for optimizing retention strategy

Hashtags

#DTCMarketing

#EmailMarketing

#CustomerRetention

#EcommerceStrategy

#ShopifyBrands

#LTVOptimization

#RetentionMarketing

#SubscriptionBrands

#PostPurchaseFlows

#AKNFPodcast

#TWBERP

#Pilothouse

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Hello and welcome to the DTC Podcast with Eric Dyck. Today, we’re joined by Jason Prowd of AMP / Lifetimely to dive into how DTC brands can move from data paralysis to strategic action. Jason shares how cohort analysis, optimized subscription offers, and behavioral triggers unlock new revenue.

Explore Lifetimely by AMP: https://useamp.com/products/analytics?utm_source=dtcnewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=lifetimely&utm_content=trylifetimely

Key Insights:

Retention vs Acquisition: Why the second-half funnel yields better ROI

Cohorts over Averages: Finding hidden cohorts with 2× LTV and reallocate spend

Subscription Strategy: Optimize first-order vs ongoing discounts, plus surprise incentives

Test Culture: Run 2–4 week experiments, build a feedback loop for continual learning

Behavioral Flows: Triggered campaigns outperform generic campaigns

This episode is packed with analytical tactics for performance marketers, founders, and operators aiming to optimize LTV and margins.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Why customer insights need constant validation

02:00 - The danger of tracking too many metrics

04:00 - How to find hidden revenue in underused cohorts

08:00 - Lifetime value vs volume-driven strategies

14:00 - How Lifetimely gives actionable analytics

23:00 - Rethinking subscription discount structures

29:00 - Flows vs campaigns in retention

32:00 - Importance of behavior-based triggers and referral timing

Hashtags:

#EcommerceData

#CustomerInsights

#DTCMarketing

#LTVStrategy

#SubscriptionOptimization

#EmailMarketing

#RetentionStrategy

#CohortAnalysis

#MarketingAnalytics

#Lifetimely

#AmpByShopify

#FlowsVsCampaigns

#CustomerSegmentation

#IncrementalRevenue

#MarketingStrategy

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of the DTC Podcast:

We dive into how Adam Miller, founder of Revel Bikes, re-acquired his high-end DTC bike business after a private equity sale, a bankruptcy, and a founderless shutdown.

Key moments organizational leaders and DTC entrepreneurs will learn:

How founder control vs PE operations impacted Revel’s culture, inventory efficiency, and profitability

The behind-the-scenes 10-day auction to buy back the company for pennies on the dollar

Tactical relaunch decisions: staffing lean, re-platform to Shopify, pricing –25–35%, direct Meta ads

Why founder-led DTC brands can beat PE‑backed exits with stronger purpose, brand affinity, and agility

Why this matters:

Learn to spot when PE control derails your brand’s DNA

Understand the power of founder-led rebirth with agility over scale

Get tactical takeaways on relaunching a DTC business post-bankruptcy

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps

00:00 – Revel Bikes is back under founder ownership

02:00 – Why Adam Miller sold Revel in 2021

04:00 – The company’s decline under private equity

06:00 – How inefficiencies and overspending led to closure

08:00 – The emotional rollercoaster of losing the business

12:00 – Outbidding others to buy Revel back

14:00 – What Adam learned after stepping away

16:00 – Changes in Revel 2.0: smaller team, DTC model

18:00 – Lower prices, Shopify replatforming, Meta ads

20:00 – Early traction and overcoming brand damage

21:30 – Would he sell to PE again?

Hashtags

#D2CPodcast

#FounderStory

#RevelBikes

#PrivateEquity

#DirectToConsumer

#Ecommerce

#StartupJourney

#DTCBrands

#BusinessTurnaround

#MountainBikes

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of the DTC Podcast, Eric Dyck sits down with Pilothouse’s Amazon strategists, Rob & Clifford, to unpack why the shift to a four‑day Prime Day demands new levels of agility, budget strategy, and channel investment. They dive into:

✅ Why a four‑day Prime Day is a marathon vs sprint — how slow starters can pivot mid‑event.

✅ The importance of earning ‘Deal’ badges, deploying virtual bundles, and flexing PPC budgets to capture peak demand.

✅ Amazon’s two‑part title rollout — how first‑mover SEO advantage could shift ranks.

✅ Unlocking Amazon Marketing Cloud to separate new vs existing customer CAC, customer path analytics, and spend optimization.

✅ Organic influencer virality—and hyper‑incentivized affiliate networks (40–50 % commissions)—as new secret weapons to dominate search and ranking.

Highlights include: skyrocketing mid‑Prime pivot opportunities, real-time budget management, and competing in a zero‑sum Amazon ad ecosystem.

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps:

00:00 – Why Prime Day is 4 Days Long in 2025

02:45 – How to Prepare for Amazon’s Mid-Year Mega Sale

06:20 – What You Need to Know About Amazon Title Updates

10:30 – Amazon Marketing Cloud: Opportunities and Limitations

17:45 – Organic Influencer Hits and Amazon SEO Boosts

23:00 – How to Leverage Creator Connections and High Affiliate Commissions

27:15 – Final Tips for Winning Prime Day with a Holistic Strategy

Hashtags:

#PrimeDay2025

#AmazonMarketing

#AmazonSellers

#EcommerceTips

#RetailStrategy

#InfluencerMarketing

#AmazonAdvertising

#DigitalMarketing

#AmazonSEO

#PerformanceMarketing

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode, Trung Pham, founder of RYSE, shares how he turned paid ad funnels — usually used to drive DTC sales — into a reliable growth engine for equity crowdfunding, raising over $10 million to fuel smart-home hardware innovation.

Join Ryse's Round! https://invest.helloryse.com/

🎯 Why Listen:

Equity Crowdfunding Meets DTC: Learn how Trung structured investor acquisition just like customer acquisition — using Meta, Google, newsletters, and conversion-optimized funnels.

Patent Strategy at Work: Discover how RYSE leverages Amazon’s APEX program to automatically take down copycat products.

Smart Brand Architecture: Hear how RYSE plans to monetize knockoff competitors with a lower-priced TikTok-focused sister brand.

Manufacturing Flexibility: Learn how Trung is using geographic production flexibility to hedge against rising tariffs.

Key Concepts Covered:

How to apply ad-driven sales mechanics to investor outreach

What Reg A and Reg CF allow founders to do that VC doesn’t

How to structure tiered investment incentives to drive larger check sizes

Why your IP and distribution channels are your real moat

The difference between marketing high-ticket smart devices and traditional DTC goods

Perfect for:

DTC founders, bootstrappers, eCommerce marketers, hardware entrepreneurs, and operators looking to raise capital without giving up control.

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps

00:00 – Solving the $2K problem: How Ryse was born

02:00 – R&D challenges and building novel IP from scratch

05:00 – From crowdfunding to ecommerce: Scaling a smart home brand

07:00 – Equity crowdfunding as a DTC growth strategy

11:00 – Creative ad strategy for investors and customers

14:00 – Cost to acquire investment vs. product sales

15:00 – Patent protection and using Amazon's APEX program

19:00 – TikTok strategy and launching a lower-cost sub-brand

22:00 – Managing tariff risk by diversifying manufacturing

24:00 – Building for acquisition: Ryse's smart home vision

26:00 – Trung’s advice for hardware founders and DTC equity raises

Hashtags

#DTCBrands

#EquityCrowdfunding

#SmartHome

#StartupGrowth

#EcommerceMarketing

#AmazonSellers

#ProductInnovation

#TikTokShop

#PatentProtection

#HardwareStartup

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of the DTC Podcast, Eric Dyck hosts Taylor Cain and Jacob from Pilothouse Meta Brain Trust to unpack how high-volume DTC brands test creative at scale on Meta. Learn their hybrid approach using ABO for insight discovery and Advantage Plus/CBO for scaling winners—while keeping testing spend lean at 5–10% of total budget.

Key Moments & Takeaways:

30+ ads/week testing: how they structure ABO for high-velocity creative discovery

Budget allocation: keep risk predictable by dedicating a small portion to tests

Meta signals: what defines ‘net-new creative’ and how visuals/text/video intros affect delivery

AI vs. human oversight: balancing Meta’s algorithm with strategic media buying

Health & wellness challenges: dealing with regressions in data permissions

Channel diversification: why brands pivot to AppLovin amid Meta data limitations

Seasonality playbook: capitalizing on lower CPMs pre-summer and prepping for prime Q4

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps

00:00 – Why July is the best time to stock the pond for Q4

02:05 – Creative testing structures: ABO vs. ASC vs. CBO

06:50 – Meta’s evolving definition of “net new creative”

11:55 – How Meta’s AI systems (Andromeda, GEM, Lattice) influence delivery

17:35 – Health and wellness brands and Meta’s tracking limitations

22:00 – AppLovin’s rise as an alternative channel for supplement brands

23:45 – Prime Day effects on Meta ad performance and purchase intent

Hashtags

#MetaAds

#FacebookAds

#CreativeTesting

#EcommerceMarketing

#DTCBrands

#PerformanceMarketing

#PaidSocial

#DigitalAdvertising

#PilotHouse

#AllKillerNoFiller

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of DTC Podcast, Adam Miller, founder of Revel Bikes, shares how he bootstrapped a premium mountain bike brand — solving product complexity, managing cash constraints, and scaling to global distribution with only minimal paid marketing.

Why it matters:

Bootstrapping high-cost inventory with home equity lines

Building authenticity through storytelling and PR

Turning earned media into sales on long buying cycles

Aligning team & culture around product passion, not spreadsheets

Knowing when to say no to big orders to preserve customer trust

Highlights:

Launch day success propelled by dual Pinkbike + EnduroMag reviews

Licensed a breakthrough suspension patent as product foundation

Fused retail credibility with DTC growth

Customer service = primary growth engine

Navigated exit with alignment to partner sharing long-term vision

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps

00:00 Intro and Revel’s untraditional marketing approach

02:00 Adam’s early entrepreneurial journey in cycling

06:00 Bootstrapping Revel with home equity and roommates

09:00 The launch strategy: PR, product obsession, and authenticity

12:00 Why community and lifestyle drove growth

16:00 What made Revel bikes different: Suspension and design

19:00 How Evergreen content and reviews outperformed paid ads

22:00 Managing explosive growth and demand

26:00 Turning down a $980K order to focus on customer experience

30:00 Selling the business: The decision and process

34:00 Post-acquisition transition and CEO handoff

39:00 Reflections, purpose after exit, and what’s next

Hashtags

#DTCPodcast

#RevelBikes

#FounderStory

#EcommerceGrowth

#OutdoorBrands

#BootstrappedBusiness

#ProductMarketing

#BikeIndustry

#DTCMarketing

#CustomerExperience

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

In this episode of All Killer, No Filler DTC Podcast, host Eric Dyck talks with Pilothouse’s Technical Manager Richard about the expanding impact of California’s CCPA/CPRA and evolving privacy laws across North America.

Key moments to listen for:

CCPA/CPRA 101 & penalties – Up to $7.5K per violation, private-data breach lawsuits, and agency enforcement

Thresholds that trigger compliance – Revenue over $25M, 100K+ Californians’ data, or data‑sale revenue ≥50%

Multi‑state comparison – VA, CO, CT, and others have their own compliance standards

Compliance tooling deep dive – Shopify solutions (ConsentMo, Pandectis, SecurePrivacy) for banners, data access, and opt‑outs

Tracking vs. consent – Even server‑side tracking must respect opt‑outs

Case study – A client lost 58% of Analytics data but only 4% of purchases after adding full compliance tools

Future of data consent – How PIPEDA, GDPR-like shifts, and AI‑driven consent profiles are shaping privacy

This episode is essential listening for ecommerce and tech managers who need to navigate privacy law demands without compromising growth and analytics integrity.

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps

00:00 – Why eCommerce brands should care about CCPA

02:55 – Overview of CCPA and CPRA regulations

05:10 – Penalties for non-compliance with California privacy laws

08:30 – Thresholds that trigger CCPA enforcement

11:05 – What personal data qualifies under CCPA

14:00 – Which US states have privacy laws beyond California

17:00 – How to make your Shopify store CCPA compliant

20:15 – Server-side tracking and compliance limitations

23:30 – Real client example: Data loss vs purchase impact

27:50 – Impact of consent banners on analytics and conversions

31:10 – Managing existing customer data for compliance

34:10 – The future of personal data and AI-managed privacy

Hashtags

#consumerprivacy

#ccpa

#ecommercelaw

#dataprotection

#cpra

#shopifycompliance

#usprivacylaws

#servertracking

#retargeting

#googleanalytics

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

To Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

This episode dives deep into how a major global brand (Barilla) reimagined Back to Nature with a bold rebrand strategy anchored in nostalgia, joy, and simple ingredients. Hear why shifting from a plant‑based tagline to a "Better‑For‑You Remix of Classics" helped unlock broader consumer appeal, fortified by skinnier SKU range and sharp creative decisions.

🔍 Key Highlights:

• Research-driven decision to ditch front‑pack “plant‑based” in favor of taste-first appeal.
• Bold creative overhaul: retro‑60s packaging, high brand recognition risk managed.
• Category insights:
• Cookies: flavor, new formats fuel impulse purchases.
• Crackers: better‑for‑you, snackable formats are gaining share.
• Marketing strategy: OTT launch, digital/social, plus in‑store velocity tracking.
• Brand building lessons: leverage heritage, memory structures, stay distinctive (per Byron Sharp).

Did you know that 98% of your website visitors are anonymous? Instant powers next-level retention by identifying who they are and converting them into loyal shoppers. Sign up for a quick demo today to get 50% off and unlock a guaranteed 4x+ ROI: instant.one/dtc

Timestamps:

00:00 – Why Back to Nature Needed a Total Rebrand

02:55 – Barilla’s Acquisition and Strategic Goals

06:10 – Andrea’s CPG Background and Role in the Brand Relaunch

10:45 – Why “Plant-Based” Was Hurting the Brand

14:30 – Unlocking a Distinct Brand Identity with Joy and Nostalgia

18:00 – Managing Risk and Shelf Recognition in a Full Redesign

21:20 – Balancing Better-for-You Messaging and Simplicity

23:50 – The Role of OTT and Digital in Brand Awareness

26:15 – Staying Focused vs. Chasing Trends at Expo West

30:00 – The Evolving Role of Ecommerce and Amazon

32:10 – Lessons in Bold Branding and Distinctiveness from Byron Sharp

Hashtags:

#DTCmarketing

#CPGbranding

#RetailRebrand

#FoodMarketing

#BrandStrategy

#ConsumerInsights

#PackagedGoods

#MarketingLeadership

#BrandPositioning

#EcommerceStrategy

Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup

Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise

Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse

Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter

Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video