Best Russ Altman Podcasts (2024)

1
The future of exercise 28:09

26m ago28:09

28:09

Jonathan Long is a biochemist who studies the chemicals produced during exercise. In Long’s world, “you always start with molecules,” which offer “clean handles” to understanding complex processes. His lab has identified a chemical produced in the digestive tract during exercise that can make a person stop eating. Long now studies this “gut-brain a…

1
Episode 263 - Exploring Non-China Sourcing Strategies with Sebastian Hertz 33:05

1d ago33:05

33:05

Scott Needham is joined by Sebastian Herz, founder of Zignify and a global product sourcing expert. Together, they explore the complexities of sourcing products outside of China, offering strategies for Amazon sellers to achieve cost savings and enhanced efficiency. Sebastian shares his journey from electrical engineer to entrepreneur, with extensi…

1
Best of: The future of proteins 31:17

7d ago31:17

31:17

We’re digging back into our archives with an episode with bioengineer Polly Fordyce. Polly studies the form and function of proteins. She refers to proteins as the “workhorses” that make things in the body happen, and her study of these molecules reveals a greater understanding of human life. We hope you’ll tune in to this conversation again, and e…

1
EPISODE 262 - From Social Work to Amazon Success: Andy Slamans’ Journey to Building a Multi-Million Dollar Brand 36:15

10d ago36:15

36:15

Andy Slamans Co-Founder of Amazing Freedom Brands, shares his incredible story of transitioning from social work to building a multi-million dollar Amazon business. We delved into Andy's early days of selling on Amazon, the valuable lessons he learned, and the challenges he overcame along the way. From navigating the intricacies of international so…

1
The future of computer-aided education 32:17

14d ago32:17

32:17

Chris Piech is a professor of computer science who studies how computers can help students learn. In comparing human- and computer-aided education, he says humans are great one-on-one, but AI is more consistent at grading and feedback. He and colleagues have created several generative AI grading apps to take advantage of these relative strengths, a…

1
EPISODE 261 - A Wholesale Conversation with Corey Ganim at SmartScout HQ 17:37

17d ago17:37

17:37

Coming from North Carolina to the SmartScout Headquarters, we have Corey Ganim an experienced wholesaler with his own podcast that has also helped many build successful wholesale businesses. In a unique twist, Corey interviews Scott about his journey and insights into building and using SmartScout. Discover how SmartScout stands out from other tool…

1
The future of effective communication 30:01

21d ago30:01

30:01

Guest Matt Abrahams is a master communicator who helps others overcome their fear of speaking — before live audiences, in small groups, or even one-on-one. His catchphrase, “Think Fast, Talk smart,” describes a mindset that, he says, is key to speaking well. Thinking fast is the ability to recognize and respond to patterns in order to talk smart — …

1
EPISODE 260 -Netrush’s Strategic Evolution in the Amazon Marketplace with Raj Sapru and Chris Marantette 40:53

24d ago40:53

40:53

Scott is joined by special guests Raj, the Chief Strategy Officer of Netrush, and Chris Marantette, the Co-CEO / Co-Founder of Netrush. They delve into the dynamic evolution of Netrush from a small two-person team to a robust company focused on maximizing brand profitability through strategic partnerships and innovative infrastructure. The discussi…

1
Best of: What happens when computers can write like humans 27:14

28d ago27:14

27:14

We’re bringing you a timely best-of episode, given the recent advances in generative AI tools like ChatGPT. A couple years ago we interviewed Jeff Hancock, a Stanford professor of communication whose research explores the psychological and interpersonal processes at play when people communicate with each other and with computers. At the time of thi…

1
EPISODE 259 - Advanced Amazon Strategies with Josh Hadley and Matt Altman 1:15:58

1M ago1:15:58

1:15:58

In this special episode, we’re excited to present a unique podcast swap, featuring an insightful episode from Josh Hadley's eComm Breakthrough Podcast. Join us as Josh interviews Matt Altman from Right Side Up, delving into advanced strategies for product optimization, managing PPC campaigns, and knowing when to let go of underperforming products. …

1
The future of the universe 30:11

1M ago30:11

30:11

Astrophysicist Risa Wechsler studies the evolution of the universe. She says that our understanding of how the universe formed and how it will change over time is changing as new technologies for seeing and measuring space come online, like a new high-resolution camera that can quickly map the full sky to see everything that moves, or new spectrogr…

1
EPISODE 258 - E-Commerce Dynamics with Russ Dieringer of Stratably 36:25

1M ago36:25

36:25

Join Scott today with Russ Dieringer, the Founder & CEO of Stratably, a leading research group that advises major brands on market trends in e-commerce. In this episode, they explore how Stratably assists companies in understanding their customers and competitors through an annual membership that includes access to in-depth research, live webinars,…

1
The future of robotics 29:46

1M ago29:46

29:46

Guest Jeannette Bohg is an expert in robotics who says there is a transformation happening in her field brought on by recent advances in large language models. The LLMs have a certain common sense baked in and robots are using it to plan and to reason as never before. But they still lack low-level sensorimotor control — like the fine skill it takes…

1
EPISODE 257 - Cruising Amazon's Fast Lane with Dillon Carter of Aura 34:18

2M ago34:18

34:18

Today we are diving into the crucial element of speed on Amazon, emphasizing that success isn't just about intelligence — it's about staying ahead of the curve. Joining Scott is Dillon Carter, the visionary behind Aura, a groundbreaking repricing tool that's revolutionizing the way sellers navigate the Amazon marketplace. From humble beginnings in …

1
The future of brain science 34:40

2M ago34:40

34:40

Guest Sergiu Pasca is a physician-scientist who turns skin cells into stem cells and then into brain tissues he calls “organoids” and “assembloids” in order to study psychiatric and neurological illness in a dish instead of in living human beings. With this knowledge, Pasca hopes to develop new treatments for conditions ranging from schizophrenia a…

1
EPISODE 256 - Maximizing Revenue Through Effective Return Management Strategies With Will Abrams 20:11

2M ago20:11

20:11

Joined by Will Abrams, founder of Axiom Prep, Scott uncovers the hidden impacts of returns on your bottom line and explores effective strategies for managing them. Returns can be more than just a hassle — they can significantly affect your revenue stream. Will shares his personal journey, from navigating piles of returns as an Amazon seller to foun…

1
The future of cybersecurity 31:58

2M ago31:58

31:58

With TikTok in the hands of 170 million Americans, cybersecurity expert Amy Zegart says it’s time to talk about consequences. Foreign access to all that data on so many Americans is a national security threat, she asserts. For those as concerned as she, Zegart has good news and bad. The government has gotten better at fighting cyberthreats, but art…

1
Episode 255: The Hadley Designs Story - A Journey Through Amazon Selling 36:19

2M ago36:19

36:19

In this episode, Josh Hadley takes us on a journey through his entrepreneurial path, sharing the story behind Hadley Designs and how they've carved out a niche in the competitive world of stationery products. Discover how Josh's childhood hustle selling lemonade paved the way for his successful e-commerce venture, and learn about the pivotal moment…

1
Best of: Regenerating and rejuvenating human tissues 26:53

2M ago26:53

26:53

A best of episode where Russ interviews one of his bioengineering colleagues, Fan Yang, about some of the fascinating work she’s doing in the realm of tissue engineering. Hear more about the ways her lab is modeling human tissue to help develop a better understanding of how we might effectively replace damaged tissues and alleviate a number of heal…

1
Episode 254: Insights About the New FBA Fees, Listing Hacks, SmartScout’s Brand Reports, and the 2024 Accelerate Conference 16:21

2M ago16:21

16:21

Scott gives us 4 key updates in a quick but compact episode. The topics include an analysis of Amazon's FBA placement fee program, SEO strategies for product listings, insights on SmartScout's brand reports, and details about Pattern's Accelerate conference for large brands. Whether you're an experienced seller or new to Amazon's marketplace dynami…

1
Best of: How do you build a better robot? By understanding people. 27:09

2M ago27:09

27:09

A best of episode where Russ interviews computer scientist and electrical engineer, Dorsa Sadigh. They had a fantastic conversation about the work she’s doing to train robots to better understand humans, and as she shares, it turns out that one key to this work is better understanding human behavior. If you’re curious about how we’re going to make …

1
Episode 253: Is the Mafia Selling on Amazon? Answers With Jed Rawson 40:27

3M ago40:27

40:27

Scott is joined by Jed Rawson, CEO of Pirawna, who shares a gripping tale of intrigue and perseverance in the face of adversity. Jed recounts a recent incident where his team encountered stolen goods being sold on Amazon, totaling a staggering $4 million in inventory. Through meticulous investigation and collaboration with law enforcement, they unc…

1
Best of: Why AI must embody the values of its users 27:52

3M ago27:52

27:52

We’re bringing back an episode about trust and AI. In a world where the use of Artificial Intelligence is exploding, guest computer scientist Carlos Guestrin shares insights from the work he’s doing to support the development of trust between humans and machines. We originally recorded this episode in 2022, but the insights are just as if not more …

1
Episode 252: Insider Strategies for Profitable Amazon Selling with Steven Pope 39:01

3M ago39:01

39:01

Steven Pope from My Amazon Guy discusses strategies for profiting on Amazon. With over a decade of experience, Steven shares insights on navigating challenges and evolving business models. He covers topics such as brand registry loss, retail arbitrage, and mitigating compliance risks. Emphasizing the importance of learning from setbacks, Steven pro…

1
The future of addiction 30:30

3M ago30:30

30:30

Guest Anna Lembke is a psychiatrist and a specialist in the behavioral sciences who studies addiction. While there is tremendous variety in the things people can be addicted to, all forms are tied to dopamine, a biochemical that is key to human senses of pleasure, reward, and motivation. She says that new treatments are combining traditional abstin…

1
Episode 251: Insights, Stories, and Standout Companies with Scott 15:08

3M ago15:08

15:08

Scott shares his insights on recent happenings in the Amazon space, including standout companies such as AdGrantsGenie, AIA Assets, Deltologic, and a personal story highlighting the challenges sellers face. Episode notes: 01:10 - AIA Assets 03:00 - AdGrantsGenie 04:00 - Deltologic 04:40 - Connected Commerce Council 05:25 - Junglytics 06:10 - Scott’…

1
The future of computer music 34:27

3M ago34:27

34:27

Humans and computers making music together, it’s the best of both worlds. Ge Wang is a professor of music, a computer scientist, and director of the Stanford Laptop Orchestra – an orchestra in which human musicians and computers collaborate to make music. “I once thought computer music was abstract and inaccessible, but it can be very playful, too,…

1
Episode 250: Discovering Growth Strategies and Branding Tips with Sabir Semerkant 48:41

3M ago48:41

48:41

Scott Needham, accompanied by e-commerce expert Sabir Semerkant, dives deep into the ever-evolving world of online commerce. With over 25 years of experience, Sabir shares invaluable insights, including his unique “8-D Method" for business growth, honed through ventures such as revitalizing Vitamin Shoppe's website from bankruptcy to success. The d…

1
The future of pediatric pain 29:31

3M ago29:31

29:31

Laura Simons is a clinical psychologist and an authority on pain, particularly chronic pain in childhood, which is much more common than widely understood. Most people don't even think chronic pain happens in children, says Simons. The consequences, however, are serious, ranging from learning gaps from missed school to social isolation and even dep…

1
Episode 249: Insights from M19 Founder Tarik on Unlocking Amazon Advertising Secrets 26:10

3M ago26:10

26:10

Scott interviews Tarik, the founder of M19, an advertising technology tool for Amazon sellers. They discuss various topics related to advertising on Amazon, including organic rank awareness, retail data awareness, inventory awareness, and variation advertising. Tarik shares insights into how M19 helps sellers optimize their advertising campaigns an…

1
The future of measuring cancer 29:54

4M ago29:54

29:54

Guest Olivier Gevaert is an expert in multi-modal biomedical data modeling and recently developed new methods in the new science of “spatial transcriptomics” that are able to predict how cancer cells present spatially and will behave in the future. Tumors are not monolithic, he says, but made up of various cell types. Spatial transcriptomics measur…

1
Episode 248: Inside Walmart's Rise with SellCord CEO Michael Lebhar 24:46

4M ago24:46

24:46

Scott Needham interviews Michael, the CEO and founder of SellCord, a Walmart agency. They discuss the growth and success of Walmart as an e-commerce platform, the reasons for brands to work with Walmart, and the opportunities for success in different categories. Michael shares insights on achieving category success on Walmart, optimizing listings, …

1
The future of reading 30:08

4M ago30:08

30:08

Rebecca Silverman is an expert in how humans learn to read. It’s a complex process, she says. First we must connect letters and sounds to decode words in texts. Researchers know a lot about the decoding process and how to teach it. But, beyond that, we must also comprehend what the words in texts are conveying. Comprehension is complex, and researc…

1
Episode 247: Catching Up With the Latest Amazon Updates 13:05

4M ago13:05

13:05

Scott breaks down the latest news in the Amazon space. Learn his reactions to new FBA Fees and the details of Thrasio’s Bankruptcy Filing. Plus, some funny takes on the 17 people you will meet at the Prosper event. Episode Notes: 00:35 - Podcast Coverage 01:15 - Prosper Update and Scott’s Favorite Audience 02:50 - The 17 People you will meet @ Pros…

1
The future of culture 31:58

4M ago31:58

31:58

Professor and cultural psychologist Michele Gelfand’s latest book, Rule Makers, Rule Breakers, explores notions of what she calls “tight” and “loose” cultures, and how each shapes us as individuals and the world around us. Tight cultures closely follow unwritten cultural norms, while those on the looser side have more latitude. Culture is complicat…

1
Episode 246: Evaluating Amazon Seller Tools With David Zimmermann 21:20

4M ago21:20

21:20

In this podcast episode, Scott Needham interviews David Zimmermann from the Amazon Tools League channel. They discuss the process of analyzing Amazon tools and how David evaluates different categories of tools, such as PPC automation and profitability trackers. They also talk about the challenges of comparing AI features in different tools and the …

1
Best of: What makes a surgeon great? 27:53

4M ago27:53

27:53

We’re taking you into our archive of over 250 episodes to re-share an interview Russ Altman did in 2022 with Stanford Medicine Professor of Surgery, Carla Pugh. Performing surgery is profoundly complex and requires precision, dexterity and lots of practice. Dr. Pugh shares about how she’s studying the movements of skilled surgeons to better underst…

1
Episode 245: Stocking Out is Good for Your Business 11:24

4M ago11:24

11:24

In this episode, Scott dives into the art of inventory management, drawing lessons from early encounters with hits like Elf on the Shelf, Halloween products, and Barbie dolls. He explores the fine line between stocking out and overstocking and discusses why stocking out can sometimes be good. Plus, Scott tackles upcoming 2024 FBA fees and shares st…

1
The future of bioprinting 29:01

5M ago29:01

29:01

Mark Skylar-Scott is one of the world’s foremost experts on the 3D printing of human tissue, cell by cell. It’s a field better known as bioprinting. But Skylar-Scott hopes to take things to a level most never imagined. He and his collaborators are working to bioprint an entire living, working human heart. We’re printing biology, Skylar-Scott tells …

1
Episode 244: The Rise and Fall of Aggregators with Michal Oron of Fortunet 27:03

5M ago27:03

27:03

Scott Needham interviews Michal B. Oron, the CEO and Co-Founder of Fortunet.net, the first investment bank focused on e-commerce businesses. They discuss the rise and fall of aggregators in the Amazon marketplace, the diversification of acquirers, and the importance of benchmarking for Amazon sellers. They also explore key metrics such as ACOS (Ave…

1
The future of language learning 31:16

5M ago31:16

31:16

Cognitive scientist Michael Frank studies differences in how children and AI learn language. There is a “data gap” between the billions of words ChatGPT has to work with and the millions of words a toddler is exposed to. But, says Frank, children learn in a rich social context that supports their learning. He’s currently conducting the “BabyView St…

1
Episode 243: The Power of Lifetime Warranties on Amazon with Michael Kaufman 21:25

5M ago21:25

21:25

In this episode, Scott interviews Michael Kaufman, an expert in e-commerce and Amazon selling, about the importance and impact of offering a lifetime warranty as a strategy to build brand identity and customer loyalty. They discuss how this approach can differentiate a brand in a competitive market, foster trust with customers, and contribute to lo…

1
Best of: Computational modeling can help us understand Alzheimer’s disease 26:35

5M ago26:35

26:35

We’re re-running an important episode on Alzheimer’s disease — a topic that touches many people. We still don’t have a complete understanding of the disease and that makes it hard to design effective therapies. In 2022, Russ Altman sat down with mechanical engineer Ellen Kuhl who offered a glimpse into the way she’s using computational modeling to …

1
Episode 242: Future-Proof Product Launch Formula with Dylan Lam of Omirank 26:29

5M ago26:29

26:29

Scott Needham interviews Dylan Lam of Omirank about building a long-term product that turns into a brand. They discuss the evolution of product launches and the concept of treating Amazon as a channel rather than a business model. Dylan shares his future-proof product launch formula, which involves triple validation through Amazon research, dropshi…

1
The future of immigration 27:48

5M ago27:48

27:48

Ran Abramitzky studies the economic history of immigration by tapping into now-public government records and using AI to chart changing attitudes on immigration captured in written documents and official speeches. What’s revealed is a remarkable story that often diverges from conventional wisdom. Not all streets were paved with gold, Abramitzky tel…

1
Episode 241: A Deep Dive into Amazon Influencer Tools and Trends with Liz Saunders 19:58

5M ago19:58

19:58

In this episode, Scott Needham interviews Liz Saunders, the founder of Fluencer Fruit, a tool for Amazon influencers. Liz shares her background as an Amazon seller and her journey to building Fluencer Fruit. She discusses the need for tools in the Amazon Influencer Program and the challenges of marketing the tool. Liz emphasizes the importance of v…

1
Best of: The future of art 29:13

5M ago29:13

29:13

We’re re-releasing a wonderful episode about the positive impact art has on individual and societal health. Guest Deborah Cullinan, vice president for the arts at Stanford, shares how including just 10-20 minutes of art in your day — whether through drawing or dancing to your favorite song — can contribute to improved health. Her insights remind us…

1
Episode 240: Get New Reviews for Your Amazon Products for Free! 12:53

6M ago12:53

12:53

Scott Needham interviews Tom, the Co-Founder of Lonesome Labs, about its HighFive tool. It is a free tool that helps Amazon sellers request reviews for their products in a compliant way. HighFive connects with a seller's Amazon account and allows them to choose when Amazon sends the review request email to customers. Tom explains the importance of …

1
The future of digital health 31:17

6M ago31:17

31:17

As the pandemic made a doctor visit as easy as a Zoom call and computer vision proved able to distinguish a benign blemish from something more worrisome, guest Eleni Linos, MD, DrPH, grew fascinated with the many ways digital technologies will impact all of medicine, not just her specialty, dermatology. She now believes the future of digital health…

1
Episode 239: How To Understand the World of Amazon Vendor Central With Will Haire 22:54

6M ago22:54

22:54

In this episode, Scott is with Will Haire, CEO & Founder at BellaVix. They explore the intricacies of Amazon Vendor Central, including topics such as net PPM, vendor profit calculations, co-op fees, challenges, and benefits of being a vendor. Learn about liquidation impact, reduced purchase orders, advertising strategies, vendor finances, and the f…

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Russ Altman Podcasts

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