Bring Your Product Idea to Life

What happens when you decide to build a business in an industry where you don't necessarily fit the mould?In this episode, I'm joined by Lizzie Lane, founder of Carparts Queen. Lizzie started working in the motor parts industry at 18 and spent more than a decade learning the trade before deciding to take everything she'd learnt and start a business of her own. We talk about what growing a product business has really looked like for Lizzie, from making her first sales to experiencing much faster growth than she expected, and some of the challenges that have come with that.Lizzie also shares her experience of building a business in a traditionally male dominated industry, why making car parts easier and less intimidating to buy is so important to her, and how she's using customer service to create a business that feels very different from others in the industry. There's a really interesting conversation about growth too. We talk about the pressure to keep pushing for more, knowing when you might need to slow down and get your processes in place, and the parts of growing a product business that aren't always visible from the outside. In this episode, you'll hear about:• How Lizzie went from working in the motor trade to starting Carparts Queen• Finding a way to stand out in a competitive industry• Building trust and confidence with your customers• The realities of running a business in a male dominated industry• Managing unexpected growth and knowing when to slow down• Staying true to what makes your business differentIf you're starting or growing your own product business, I think you'll really enjoy Lizzie's openness about what's worked, what's been challenging and what she's learnt along the way.Find Lizzie here: www.carpartsqueen.co.ukChapters00:00 Meet Lizzie Lane and Carparts Queen02:05 From employee to business owner04:42 Starting Carparts Queen07:22 Women in the motor parts industry13:23 Helping customers feel more confident20:07 Making car parts easier to buy23:07 Building trust with your customers30:18 Running a business in a male dominated industry36:07 Managing unexpected business growth40:35 Growing the team and looking ahead44:17 The reality behind running a business46:33 Lizzie's advice for product foundersLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

If you sell on Amazon, Q4 can creep up on you incredibly quickly. One minute it's September and Christmas feels ages away, then suddenly you're dealing with increased traffic, more expensive ads, stock deadlines and everything else that comes with the busiest shopping period of the year.The good news is that you don't need to do everything at once.In this week's episode, I'm sharing my practical Amazon Q4 preparation checklist, including the things I'd be looking at now to make life easier later in the year. This isn't about adding lots more to your to do list, it's about getting a few important things sorted before you're busy and don't have the time or headspace to deal with them. We start with your Amazon listings, including the new 75 character product title limit, updating your images and A Plus Content, and why September is a good time to get new products listed if you want them selling during Q4. I also talk about inventory planning and some of the important dates to be aware of, as well as checking your account health, building up reviews, using Amazon Vine and getting your advertising and budgets ready for potentially higher costs. We'll also look at Black Friday and Cyber Monday, why you absolutely don't have to take part in Amazon's deals, and a quick reminder about the potential increase in returns after Christmas. In this episode, I cover:• Getting your Amazon listings ready for Q4• Amazon's new 75 character product title limit• Planning your FBA inventory and when to send stock• Checking your Amazon account health• Building up reviews before Q4• Preparing your Amazon ads and budgets• Planning for Black Friday and Cyber Monday• Using FBM as a backup during the busy period• Preparing for returns after ChristmasGetting ahead with your Amazon Q4 preparation now means there'll hopefully be much less to worry about when things get really busy later in the year.I've also got a free Amazon optimisation checklist to help you quickly audit your account, and you can join me at my next free Amazon Seller Support and Connect call if you have any questions. I'll put the links to both below. Chapters00:00 Getting your Amazon business ready for Q401:05 Amazon's new product title limits03:50 Updating listings and launching new products05:45 Q4 inventory planning and important dates08:15 Checking your Amazon account health09:20 Getting more reviews before Q412:10 Preparing your Amazon ads and budgets14:35 Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Amazon deals16:00 Preparing for returns after Christmas17:05 Your Amazon Q4 preparation checklist18:05 Amazon Seller Support and ConnectUSEFUL LINKS:My free Amazon audit checklist: https://checklist.vickiweinberg.com/auditEveryting you need to know about Amazon Vine: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/31085d58-6597-4221-8627-35e4846480ba/How to get your first reviews on Amazon: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/071d0e68-5b91-414a-93a9-f6b8dc823f35/Join the next Amazon Sellers Support & Connect call: https://calendly.com/vickiweinberg/new-meetingFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

If you sell on Amazon, there's a chance you're missing out on money without even realising it.Lost inventory, invoice discrepancies, overbilling and fulfilment issues can all add up over time, but many sellers never spot them, let alone know they can claim the money back.In this week's episode, I'm joined by Liam from Threecolts to talk about Amazon reimbursement claims, how they work, what Amazon sellers should be checking, and why recovering lost revenue doesn't have to become another job on your to do list.We also explore marketplace expansion and how brands can grow onto platforms such as TikTok Shop, Temu and Walmart without creating unnecessary manual work.Whether you're an established Amazon seller or you're starting to think about expanding beyond your own website, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you make informed decisions and protect your profitability.Find Liam and the team here:Website: threecolts.comInstagram : threecolts_comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/threecolts/posts/?feedView=allLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to launch a skincare brand in one of the world's most competitive industries?In this week's episode, I'm joined by father and son team Mark and Malachy Mitchnick, the founders of Burnd Sunscreen. Mark is a paediatrician and product developer who spent decades creating products for some of the biggest names in skincare. Malachy left a career in technology to help build a consumer brand from the ground up.What I loved about this conversation is that it isn't just about sunscreen. It's about innovation, building a product people genuinely need, creating a brand customers connect with, and having the confidence to launch something even when plenty of people think it's a bad idea.We also talk honestly about the reality of building a business. From living at home to keep costs low, to making decisions without having all the data, Mark and Malachy share the lessons they've learned while launching a skincare brand in a crowded marketplace.If you're developing your own product, or thinking about bringing an idea to market, this episode is full of practical advice, honest reflections and encouragement from founders who are building a business one step at a time.Find Mark and Malachy Here:getburnd.com@burndskincarehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mitchnick-a9a71311/***Get 15% off sitewide by using code vicki***LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/support

If you sell on Amazon, things don't stay still for long, and over the past couple of months there have been several updates that could affect how you manage your business. From new virtual bundles and returns tools to changes to product titles, AI shopping features and important dates for Q4, there's plenty to be aware of. In this episode, I'm rounding up the latest Amazon seller updates, explaining what they mean in practice and, most importantly, what action you might want to take now. Whether you sell through FBA or FBM, these updates could help you improve your listings, increase your average order value and prepare for the busiest time of the year.If you want to stay ahead of changes on Amazon without having to read every announcement yourself, this episode will bring you up to speed.If you have any questions regarding the episode my next Amazon Sellers Support Connect is on Thursday 3rd September, for more information on this head to my instagram below and pop me a message. LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

Have you ever had an idea for a product but wondered where to start?Starting a product business can feel overwhelming. From finding manufacturers and creating prototypes, to building a brand and bringing your product to market, there are so many unknowns that it's easy to feel stuck before you've even begun.In this week's episode, I'm joined by Louise Meddar, founder of Louise Meddar London, a luxury handbag brand inspired by her Jamaican heritage and the memory of her late mum.Louise shares the honest story behind starting a product business, including how she found manufacturers without having industry connections, why asking questions became one of her biggest strengths, and what she's learned from building a premium brand from the ground up.What I loved about this conversation is that Louise doesn't pretend the journey has been easy. Instead, she shares the realities of learning as you go, trusting your instincts and continuing to move forward, even when you don't have all the answers.Whether you're just starting a product business, or you've already launched and are navigating the next stage of growth, I hope this conversation gives you the confidence to keep going.Find Louise Here:https://louisemeddar.com/https://www.instagram.com/louisemeddardesignsLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

Pricing can feel like one of the hardest decisions you'll make as a product business owner.Charge too little and you risk under valuing your product, reducing your profits and making it harder to grow.Charge too much and you might worry that customers won't buy from you.So how do you find the right balance?In this episode, I'm joined by pricing and growth strategist Caroline Cookson to talk about pricing strategy and why pricing is about so much more than simply adding a margin to your costs.We discuss why your pricing should reflect your brand positioning, how to think about competitors without simply copying them, and why reviewing your prices regularly is one of the most important things you can do as your business grows.Whether you're launching your first product or reviewing an existing range, this conversation will help you approach your pricing strategy with more confidence.In this episode we discuss:• The difference between setting a price and having a pricing strategy• Why your customer should be at the centre of every pricing decision• How much attention you should pay to competitor pricing• Why cost plus pricing isn't always the best approach• When promotions make sense, and when they don't• How to avoid relying on discounts to drive sales• What to do if you've underpriced your products• How to increase your prices without damaging customer trust• Why reviewing your prices every year is so important• Common pricing mistakes product founders make• Why pricing is just as much about marketing as it is about finance• Practical steps you can take to review your pricing this weekOne of my biggest takeaways from this conversation was that pricing isn't simply about choosing a number.Your price communicates something about your brand, your positioning and the value you offer your customers.Having a clear pricing strategy can help you make confident decisions, rather than constantly second guessing yourself or comparing your prices to everyone else's.Find Caroline here:www.cooksonpartners.comhttps://www.instagram.com/cooksonpartners/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-cookson/LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

What happens when you've created a fantastic product, but your biggest challenge is that nobody knows it exists?In this episode, I'm joined by David, founder of Talking Print, a business that's been creating audio greeting cards, video brochures and other innovative printed products for over 15 years.One of the things I found most interesting about our conversation was the challenge of selling an innovative product. When customers don't know your product exists, they aren't searching for it, which means marketing becomes just as important as the product itself.David shares how he built a business around innovation, why he's never been afraid to test new ideas, and how selling through platforms like Amazon and Etsy has allowed him to experiment, learn and grow.Whether you're developing a completely new product, or you're trying to market something different from everything else on the market, this conversation is packed with honest insights and practical advice.In this episode we discuss:• How David built a business around innovation• Why selling an innovative product brings unique challenges• The journey from B2B to B2C• Creating products people didn't even know existed• The realities of selling on Amazon and Etsy• Why testing ideas is such an important part of product development• The importance of customer service when selling personalised products• Lessons learned from appearing on Dragon's Den• Why relationships with manufacturers matter• How to stand out in a crowded marketplace• Why marketing is often the biggest challenge for innovative products• The value of continually trying new ideasOne thing I really took away from this conversation is that innovation isn't just about creating something new. It's also about finding ways to help customers understand why they need it.David has spent years refining his products, testing new ideas and learning what works, and what doesn't. His willingness to experiment, adapt and keep moving forward is something I think every product founder can learn from.If you're selling an innovative product, or you're developing something that's a little different from what's already on the market, I hope this episode reassures you that building awareness takes time, but it's worth the effort.Find David here:Websites:B2B: https://www.talkingprint.comB2C: https://talkiesbytalkingprint.comEtsy shop: https://talkingprint.etsy.comTwitterhttps://x.com/talkingprintUKInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/talkingprintofficial/LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/davidhyams/LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

If you've ever felt frustrated by how long it's taking to develop your product, this episode is for you.One of the biggest misconceptions about product development is that once you've got the idea, everything else should happen quickly. In reality, creating a product you're genuinely proud of often takes much longer than expected.In this episode, I'm joined by James Fields, founder of British watch brand Swan and Edgar. Although James designs luxury watches, this conversation is about so much more than watches. It's about building products with purpose, staying true to your vision, and resisting the temptation to rush simply to get to market faster.James shares why developing his first watch took 18 months, how every tiny design decision matters, and why patience has become one of his greatest strengths as a founder.Whether you're creating your first product or expanding an existing range, this episode is packed with practical insights into product development and what it really takes to build something that lasts.One of the things I found most interesting about this conversation was hearing how much thought goes into every single decision. From sourcing components to refining tiny design details, James explains why creating a product isn't about finding the quickest route, it's about making decisions that support your brand for years to come.If you're currently in the middle of product development, or you're about to start creating your first product, I hope this conversation reassures you that taking your time isn't a weakness. Often, it's exactly what's needed to build something you're proud of.Find James here: https://swanandedgar.com/https://www.instagram.com/SwanandEdgarhttps://www.facebook.com/SwanandEdgarWatches/https://www.youtube.com/@swanandedgarhttps://uk.pinterest.com/swanandedgar/https://www.linkedin.com/company/swan-edgar/LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

There's been a lot of talk recently about Amazon's AI shopping tools, with some people claiming they'll completely change how customers shop and others saying that Amazon SEO is dead.So, what does this actually mean for UK sellers?In this episode, I'm breaking down what we know so far about Amazon AI for Shopping, including Rufus and Alexa for Shopping, and separating the facts from the fiction.I explain how these new AI powered shopping tools work, why Amazon is investing so heavily in them, and what they could mean for the future of product discovery on Amazon.Most importantly, I share what I think you should actually be focusing on right now, without getting caught up in the hype.If you're selling on Amazon, or you're planning to, this episode will help you understand what's changing, what's staying the same, and how to make sure your listings are ready for the future of Amazon AI for Shopping.One thing I really wanted to do with this episode was cut through some of the noise. There are lots of headlines suggesting everything is changing overnight, but I don't believe that's the case.Instead, I think this is another reminder that good Amazon listings have always been about helping customers understand your product. AI is simply giving customers another way to find that information.Whether you're already selling on Amazon or you're planning to launch your products soon, understanding Amazon AI for Shopping now will help you stay one step ahead as these tools continue to develop.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:45 Why Amazon AI for Shopping matters02:18 What Rufus actually does04:36 How Rufus uses your product listings06:59 Alexa for Shopping explained08:09 Debunking the biggest AI myths10:26 What sellers should focus on now13:02 AI powered advertising and sponsored prompts14:45 My own Rufus testing and what I found16:15 My biggest takeaway for Amazon sellers17:30 Join my free Amazon Seller Support and Connect sessionLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

If you've ever thought about selling your products overseas but assumed exporting was too complicated, too expensive, or only for large businesses, this episode is for you.In this episode, I'm joined by Tim Reid, Chief Executive of UK Export Finance, to talk about what exporting really looks like for small businesses and why it might be more achievable than you think.We discuss some of the biggest misconceptions around exporting, the support that's available for businesses looking to sell internationally, and the practical first steps you can take if you're considering expanding into overseas markets.Tim also explains how UK Export Finance works with businesses of all sizes, helping them access finance, reduce risk and feel more confident about growing internationally.If you're wondering how to start exporting your products internationally, this conversation is full of practical advice and reassurance.One of the things I found most encouraging about this conversation was how much support is available for businesses that want to export. It isn't about figuring everything out on your own. There are organisations and people whose job is to help businesses grow internationally and navigate the process with confidence.More info on us here UK Export FinanceLinkedIn here (14) UK Export Finance: Posts | LinkedInTwitter here Profile / XLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

Have you ever had an idea for a product but had no idea what to do next?Many product business owners start with a concept, a sketch, or even just a feeling of something they'd like to create. But turning that idea into a finished product that people can actually buy involves far more than most people realise.In this episode, I'm joined by product designer and consultant Natalya Koval, founder of Ginger Quikki Studio. Natalya works with founders and established brands to help bring product ideas to life, from the earliest stages of design right through to manufacturing and production.We talk about what really happens behind the scenes when developing a product, the common mistakes founders make, and why bringing a product to market is often a much longer and more emotional journey than people expect.Natalya shares practical insights into product design, manufacturing, sampling, factory relationships and customer feedback. She also explains why simplicity is often the key to great design, and why getting the foundations right can save a huge amount of time, money and frustration later on.If you've ever wondered how to turn a product idea into something people can buy, this episode offers a realistic and honest look at what's involved.In this episode we discuss:• How product ideas evolve from an initial concept into a finished product• Why understanding your customer is essential before you start designing• The importance of balancing creativity, functionality and budget• Common mistakes founders make during the product development process• Why sampling and product development take longer than most people expect• How to choose the right manufacturer for your product• The role of factories, pattern makers and production partners• Why quality control is such an important part of the process• How customer feedback can improve your product before launch• The hidden costs that many founders overlook• Why product development can be an emotional journey• How to avoid costly mistakes when working with manufacturers• What happens when products don't succeed commercially• Practical advice for anyone developing their first productOne of the things I found particularly interesting about this conversation was Natalya's honesty about the realities of product development. We often see the finished product, but rarely hear about the years of work, testing, revisions and problem solving that happen behind the scenes.Whether you're developing your first product or looking to improve an existing one, there are plenty of practical insights in this episode that will help you approach the process with more confidence.Connect with Nataylawww.gingerkoiki.comInstagramNatalya Koval | LinkedInhttps://gingerkoiki.scoreapp.comLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/support

In this episode, I am talking about a question I think every Amazon seller should be asking regularly, is your Amazon account reaching its full potential?What I often see is that Amazon does not need to be performing badly for there to be room for improvement. In fact, some of the biggest opportunities come from accounts that are already generating sales, but have stopped evolving. Small gaps in optimisation, visibility, advertising, or operations can quietly limit growth without you realising it.I also see sellers giving up too early because they assume Amazon is not working for them, when actually the account simply has not had the right attention yet. When you start to look closely, there are usually clear, actionable areas that can improve both sales and profitability.So in this episode, I walk you through the key signs that your Amazon account reaching its full potential might not yet be happening, what to look for inside your listings and ads, and how small changes can start to compound into meaningful results over time.Chapters00:00 Introduction, why Amazon accounts often have hidden potential02:40 Signs your account could be doing more, even if sales feel steady06:10 Outdated listings and missed optimisation opportunities09:20 Visibility versus conversion, where sales can be quietly lost12:10Improving conversions through listings, images and storefronts15:20 Ads performance, data review and missed opportunities18:10 Operational improvements and profitability gains21:10 Final thoughts, why small changes compound over timeLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

What does it really take to start a product-based business from scratch and grow it into something that reaches international markets?In this episode, I’m joined by Jason Harvey, founder of Common Coffee, a specialty coffee roastery based just outside Edinburgh that now supplies wholesale customers, retail consumers, and international markets including Dubai and the US.Jason’s journey didn’t begin with a perfect business plan. It started with an events business, a chance moment at a music festival, and a willingness to follow curiosity rather than certainty.We talk about how Common Coffee was built from the ground up, including how Jason went from refurbishing a forgotten coffee roaster in a Scottish workshop to launching at the London Coffee Festival just six weeks later.This is a conversation about momentum, decision-making, and what really happens after you “launch” a business.One of the biggest themes in this conversation is that building a product business takes far longer than most people expect.Jason shares how early momentum came from action and deadlines not perfection and how real growth comes from staying consistent long after the launch moment.We also talk about how setbacks don’t always block progress. In Jason’s case, a £35K packaging error became the unexpected catalyst for expanding into the US market.Find Jason Here: Website - https://commoncoffee.co.uk/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/iicommonInstagram - @iicommonLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-harvey-a28721198/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/common-coffee/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@BedofRoastersLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportChapters:00:00 Introduction to Jason Harvey and Common Coffee01:01 How a coffee roastery started from an unexpected opportunity09:10 Taking a business idea from concept to launch in six weeks11:58 Why deadlines create momentum in a startup15:35 Building confidence through community and loyal customers17:29 Expanding internationally through trade shows and networking19:54 Growing wholesale and online sales together27:49 Working with family and building the right team35:15 Turning mistakes into opportunities38:41 Advice for anyone thinking about starting a business43:09 What Jason would do differently if he started again44:51 Jason's number one piece of advice for product business ownersMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

If you're trying to work out how to grow a product business, it can be tempting to focus on increasing sales above everything else. But what happens when your sales are growing and your profits aren't?In this episode, I'm joined by Christabel Biella, a fractional operator and commercial growth consultant who helps product based business owners build stronger, more sustainable businesses.We talk about what healthy growth actually looks like, why more sales don't always lead to more profit, and the common mistakes that can make growth feel harder rather than easier.Christabel shares practical advice on pricing, product ranges, inventory management, hiring and choosing the right sales channels. We also discuss how to spot when something isn't working in your business and the key numbers every founder should understand before making decisions about growth.If you've ever wondered how to grow a product business in a way that feels sustainable and profitable, there's plenty in this conversation that will help.Christabel is also offering a free 20 minute commercial model review call for founders who'd like support identifying growth opportunities and improving profitability within their business.Find Christabel here: - Website: https://www.cbco.uk- My Commercial Diagnostic Sprint info page: https://www.cbco.uk/sprint - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christabel/LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

In today’s episode I’m joined by website conversion expert Lisa Whalley-Smith to break down how product-based businesses can realistically grow, and even double their website revenue.Lisa shares the simple but powerful framework she uses with clients to improve performance across three key areas: traffic, conversion rate, and average order value. But as she explains, growth doesn’t start with traffic, it starts with understanding your numbers.We talk through real examples of brands Lisa has worked with, including businesses going from £8–10K months to significantly higher revenue by making focused, data-led improvements.In this episode, we cover:The 3 key metrics that drive website revenue (and how they work together)Why conversion rate should come before trafficHow to increase conversion rates through better messaging and customer alignmentSimple but effective ways to increase average order value (including bundling, offers, and free delivery thresholds)When and how to focus on increasing website traffic through ads, PR, and social mediaWhy understanding your data is the most important first step before making changesOne of the key takeaways from this conversation is that growth doesn’t come from doing everything at once, it comes from focusing on the right lever at the right time, and consistently measuring what works.If you run a product-based business and want to increase your online sales in a more structured, strategic way, this episode will give you a really practical starting point.Find Lisa here:https://www.klaritymarketing.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lisawhalleysmithLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

If you’re wondering how to get your first reviews on Amazon, this episode is for you.Because reviews really do matter.They help customers trust your products, they improve conversions, and they send strong signals to Amazon’s algorithm that your product is worth showing to more people.In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why reviews are so important, why I always recommend focusing on reviews before running ads, and the compliant ways you can start building reviews when you’re launching a new product.I’m also talking about something I think many sellers worry about unnecessarily, getting the occasional less than perfect review, and why volume of reviews can actually matter more than having a perfect five star rating.If you’re launching on Amazon, or you’ve got products sitting there with very few reviews, this episode will help you understand what to focus on first.Everything you need to know about Amazon Vine: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/31085d58-6597-4221-8627-35e4846480ba/LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

This week I’m joined by Holly Stafford-Smith from GH Stafford & Son Ltd, a fourth-generation family business that has been supplying leather goods and accessories across the UK for almost 80 years.In this episode, Holly shares the story of how the business evolved from manufacturing leather goods in post-war Walsall to becoming a long-established wholesale supplier working with retailers and wholesalers across the UK and Ireland.We talk about what it’s really like working in a family business, balancing tradition with modernisation, navigating generational differences, evolving a product range over time, and why focusing on product quality has helped the business continue to grow after all these years.There’s also a really honest conversation about the realities of family business life, the challenges, the opportunities, and the deep care that comes with building something across generations.Whether you run a product-based business yourself or are interested in how long-standing businesses continue to adapt and evolve, there’s so much insight in this episode.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Holly Stafford-Smith and GH Stafford & Son Ltd01:31 The story behind the family business founded in 194703:17 How the business has stayed relevant for nearly 80 years05:49 Modernising a long-established wholesale business07:24 Selling through retailers and wholesalers across the UK09:09 Why the business has stayed B2B only11:05 How the product range has evolved over the years13:44 Using customer feedback to shape products16:44 Growing up in a family business19:40 Working across different roles in the business20:43 Navigating family dynamics and generational differences24:58 The realities of working in a family business29:30 Holly’s advice for product business ownersConnect with Holly here:https://ghstafford.com/https://www.facebook.com/GHStaffordandSonhttps://www.instagram.com/ghstaffordandson/https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-stafford-smith/https://www.linkedin.com/company/g.h.stafford-&-son-limited/LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

If you’ve ever looked at your product and thought, “is my packaging actually helping me sell this?” then this episode is going to be really helpful.I’m joined by Daniel Poll, founder of No Ramble, a brand and packaging design studio, and we’re talking all about what makes packaging work, both in store and online.Because the reality is, if your product looks the same as everything else, your customer is far more likely to choose based on price. And that’s not where most of us want to be.We get into what effective packaging design for Amazon and retail actually looks like, why so many brands end up following the crowd, and what you can do differently if you want to stand out in a way that feels right for your product and your customer.Packaging isn’t just about making something look good, it’s about helping your customer quickly understand what your product is and why they should choose it.This is one of those episodes that might make you look at your packaging in a completely different way.Find Daniel here:Website: https://noramble.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noramble/Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-poll/Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/noramble/LET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

So many founders delay growing their business because funding feels confusing or out of reach. This episode is here to change that, and give you a clearer way to think about how to fund your business growth.If I’m honest, funding is something I didn’t really understand for a long time, and I know I won’t be the only one.When we hear about funding, it’s often things like Dragon’s Den or venture capital, and it can feel quite far removed from everyday business. But actually, there are so many different business funding options, and understanding them can completely change how you approach growing your business.In this episode, I’m joined by Hazel Nabarro, founder of Femfinity, and she breaks down how to fund your business growth in a way that feels much more clear and manageable.We talk through the different types of business funding options, including bootstrapping, grants, loans, angel investors, and venture capital, and what each one really looks like in practice.What I found really helpful about this conversation is that it’s not just about what’s available, it’s about how to make the right decision for you and your business, rather than making choices from a place of panic or pressure.So if funding is something you’ve been thinking about, or you’re not sure what your next step should be, this will give you a much clearer picture of how to fund your business growth in a way that actually works for you.Find Hazel here: Website : www.femfinity.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tofemfinity/LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/hazelnabarro/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/femfinity/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Hazel and her work in funding and growth03:20 What funding really means and why it is often misunderstood06:00 Bootstrapping and using revenue to fund your business09:30 Grants explained, pros, cons and how to improve your chances15:10 Loans, risks, and what to consider before borrowing18:45 Equity funding, angel investors and how it works23:30 Venture capital explained and whether it is right for you27:50 When to start thinking about funding your business31:20 Revenue first growth and building a sustainable business34:00 Key questions to ask before taking any funding37:00 Can you say no to investors and why due diligence matters38:30 Why increasing female investors is so important41:10 How to become an angel investor and get started44:30 Final advice on making strategic funding decisionsLET’S CONNECTFollow me on YouTubeFind me on InstagramWork with me Buy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeIf you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

This episode is a timely release of episode I record a while ago with Catherine Erdly,  the founder of the Resilient Retail ClubCatherine helps product businesses start, grow and scale profitable businesses that last. In this podcast Catherine shares the best things that you can do as a product-based business now to prepare for Christmas, get ahead and boost your sales.It is an episode packed full of specific, actionable steps, and is going to help so many of you have a less stressful Christmas season! Listen in to hear Catherine share:An introduction to herself and her business (01:48)When to start planning for Christmas (02:25)Long-term Christmas planning (04:35)When to start talking about Christmas to your customers (09:45)Things you can do now to start prepping for Christmas (13:31)Jobs that you should leave now until after Christmas! (19:37)How to make the most of Christmas if your product isn’t a traditional gift (23:39)The particular opportunities you have this Christmas (28:)Tasks you should be doing after Christmas (30:13)Her number one piece of advice for product creators this Christmas (33:42)USEFUL RESOURCES:The Resilient Retail Club WebsiteResilient Retail Club TwitterResilient Retail Club FacebookResilient Retail Club InstagramCatherine Erdly LinkedInBuy My Book: Bring Your Product Idea To LifeLET’S CONNECTJoin my free Facebook group for product makers and creatorsFind me on InstagramWork with me If you enjoy this podcast, and you’d like to leave a tip, you can do so here: https://bring-your-product-idea.captivate.fm/supportMentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership

Catherine Erdly is the founder of the Resilient Retail Club, and helps product businesses start, grow and scale profitable businesses that last. In this podcast Catherine shares her top tips for how you can prepare to sell your products this Christmas.EPISODE NOTES**Please remember to rate and review the podcast - it really helps others to find it.**Today on the podcast I'm re-releasing a conversation I recorded with Catherine Erdly last September about how to prepare for Christmas.Catherine is the founder of the Resilient Retail Club. Catherine worked in the retail sector for two decades, working with household names such as Coast, Laura Ashley and Paperchase. She now helps product businesses start, grow and scale profitable businesses that last through her group membership and 1-2-1 consulting. Catherine shares the best things that you can do as a product-based business in the run-up to Christmas to help yourself and boost sales.I came away from the podcast with the sense I was sharing it all too late, and actually summer is when you need to start prepping for Christmas. My hope is that by re-releasing this episode now, you will find things you can do that will save you a lot of stress in October, November & December this year. It is an episode packed full of specific, actionable steps, and is going to help so many of you have a less stressful Christmas season! Listen in to hear Catherine share:An introduction to herself and her business (01:43)When to start planning for Christmas  (02:19)Long-term Christmas planning (04:24)When to start talking about Christmas to your customers (09:42)Things you can do now to start prepping for Christmas (13:14)Jobs that you should leave now until after Christmas! (19:18)How to make the most of Christmas if your product isn’t a traditional gift (23:16)The particular opportunities you have this Christmas (28:19)Tasks you should be doing after Christmas (30:00)Her number one piece of advice for product creators this Christmas (33:36)USEFUL RESOURCES:The Resilient Retail Club WebsiteResilient Retail Club TwitterResilient Retail Club FacebookResilient Retail Club InstagramCatherine Erdly LinkedInLET’S CONNECTJoin my free Facebook group for product makers and creatorsFind me on InstagramWork with me Mentioned in this episode:Amazon Made Easy is now openMy membership, Amazon Made Easy is now open. It’s a membership for people who are selling on Amazon (or planning to) and want regular access to support, somewhere to ask questions and talk things through, and a bit of structure and accountability as they grow. Inside, there are live Q&A calls, optional co-working sessions and a small, supportive community. Find out more: https://vickiweinberg.com/membership membership