Episode 223: Cracking the Code on AppLovin Ads - A New Traffic Channel for DTC Brands

Episode 223: Cracking the Code on AppLovin Ads: A New Traffic Channel for DTC Brands Episode Description If you're tired of being stuck between Meta and Google for your media buys—this episode is for you. Pep Hufen is back with a behind-the-scenes look at AppLovin Ads: the breakout ad platform that's scaling DTC brands like Breeze and Boom. Discover why this mobile-first platform is outperforming Google for some advertisers, how it works, and why it might just be your next great opportunity for customer acquisition. Plus, Pep shares a step-by-step walkthrough of how Smart Marketer tested it with Boom Beauty and what you need to know to get started. "I've given you an overview of AppLovin and hopefully also I've shown that hey, there are actually platforms coming up that can compete with performance actually with Meta and Google." – Pep Hufen You Will Learn What AppLovin is and how it's unlocking new acquisition channels Why major DTC brands are shifting serious spend to this platform The two bidding strategies you need to test (CPP vs ROAS) How Boom Beauty achieved a 1.1X ROAS on a brand-new pixel What creatives work best on mobile-first ad placements Tips for optimizing end cards to boost conversions Where AppLovin fits in your broader traffic strategy Links & Resources Smart Marketer Smart Marketer Live – Grab Your Tickets Boom Beauty Apply for AppLovin Beta w/ Smart Marketer Partner Credit Aaron Nosbisch on X (@aaronjnosbisch) Timestamps 00:00:21 – What Is AppLovin & Why It Matters to DTC Marketers 00:01:52 – AppLovin's Pivot to Ecomm: A New Channel for Acquisition 00:02:30 – Case Study: Breeze Spends $1.4M—and Outpaces Google 00:03:04 – Why ROAS Is the Real Story (Not Just Clicks) 00:04:02 – AppLovin's Ad Inventory, Reach & Algorithm Explained 00:06:12 – Why These Clicks Convert: Real Buyer Signals 00:07:05 – CPP vs. ROAS Goals: How to Structure Campaigns 00:13:56 – Boom Beauty Setup: Pre-Sell Pages, Offers & Funnel 00:17:05 – Scaling Boom: CPM, Creative Testing & Ad Types 00:22:09 – Final Optimizations: ROAS Wins & What's Next Your Engagement Matters Thanks for tuning in. This episode was packed with data-backed strategy and firsthand testing insights. If it helped you think differently about ad platforms: Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts Share with your team, mastermind, or community Tag us on social using #WeOutHere Join us live at Smart Marketer Live — meet the team, connect with marketers, and leave with a growth game plan. Get your ticket here Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]. Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit.