Alibaba.com Sourcing Insights

Alibaba.com

  • 32 minutes 15 seconds
    March Expo Pro Tips for Profitable Products with Tim Jordan and Lulu Yan
    In this episode of B2B Breakthrough, recorded on the sidelines of Alibaba’s March Expo, Ciara Cristo chats with Tim Jordan, E-commerce Seller and Strategy Consultant, and Lulu Yan, Category Specialist at Alibaba.com. Together, they explore March Expo’s sourcing opportunities, from fast shipping to deep discounts, and uncover trending products in fashion, pets, home & garden, and beauty. 
    During the month of March, buyers can take advantage of exclusive benefits, including: 
    • Get up to $20 on shipping fees with orders shipped via Alibaba.com Logistics on your first order.
    • Order products that total a certain amount and receive a coupon valued between $5 and $500 at check out.
    • Save up to US $30 off with PayPal, Valid on the first purchase on Alibaba.com.

    Learn how to navigate rising costs, leverage supplier relationships, and build perceived value in competitive markets. Whether you're scaling your business or spotting the next big trend, this episode is packed with practical strategies to stay ahead.
    Join Lulu & Tim as they discuss:
    • Two Paths to Product Success: Competing vs. Finding Niches
    • Fashion Trends: From Bohemian Dresses to Bell Bottoms
    • Leveraging Supplier Intelligence for Early Trend Detection
    • Smart Pet Products: The Growing Tech Pet Care Market
    • Home & Garden: Regional Design Preferences
    • Sports & Outdoor: Capitalizing on the Pickleball Boom
    • Beauty Industry: Packaging Innovation & Brand Perception
    • Key Takeaways: March Expo Strategies & Economic Opportunities

    Tim Jordan     is an experienced e-commerce seller, strategist, and business development consultant. Since 2015, he has developed innovative growth strategies for Amazon sellers, helping them navigate the ever-evolving marketplace. As the founder of Hickory Flats and Private Label Legion, he has provided valuable sourcing insights and free resources for e-commerce entrepreneurs. Tim has also worked with leading service providers like PingPong and Sellers Funding and continues to pioneer new e-commerce projects and techniques.

    Lulu Yan is a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience in global commerce and consumer markets. For the past four years, Lulu has been dedicated to cross-border eCommerce in the Beauty and Fashion industry at Alibaba.com. Prior to that, she spent over a decade in Fortune Global 500 multinational consumer goods companies, specializing in shopper marketing, category management, and brand development. Having worked across China, the U.S., France, and Singapore, Lulu brings deep global market insights and a sharp understanding of consumer behavior to every endeavor.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    20 February 2025, 4:28 pm
  • 30 minutes 15 seconds
    Top 5 Tips to Make it in Retail: Prep for Success with Yohan Jacob of RetailBound
    On this episode of B2B Breakthrough, host Ciara Cristo chats with Yohan Jacob, founder of Retailbound, to uncover essential strategies for thriving in the competitive retail landscape. With over 30 years of experience mentoring 4,000+ clients, Yohan shares tips on product differentiation, meeting buyer expectations, and streamlining supply chains. From mastering negotiations to crafting standout marketing strategies, this episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs and established brands aiming to break into big-box retail and succeed confidently.
    Join them as they discuss:
    • Foundations of Retail Success - The Marriage Analogy
    • The Art of Buyer Communication
    • The Three Pillars of Buyer Decision-Making
    • Strategic Retail Packaging Optimization
    • Handling Rejection and Persistence

    Yohan Jacob is the Founder and President of Retailbound, bringing over 30 years of unparalleled retail expertise. A veteran in the industry, he bridges the gap between product manufacturers and billion-dollar retailers, offering unique insights from both perspectives. Yohan has empowered 4,000+ clients worldwide, from innovative startups to growing enterprises, with strategies for merchandising, marketing, and product development. A sought-after speaker and author of Retailbound: Learn How To Sell Your Products To Retailers, Yohan specializes in creating lasting, profitable partnerships while navigating the complexities of retail. His expertise spans in-store marketing, licensing, packaging, vendor negotiations, and inventory management.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    5 February 2025, 10:00 am
  • 35 minutes 13 seconds
    Growth from the Ground Up: How Rudy Mawer Builds & Markets Impactful Brands
    In this episode of B2B Breakthrough, Ciara Cristo chats with Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital and celebrity marketer, about mastering a winner's mindset, navigating the shifting marketing landscape, and scaling businesses. Rudy shares insights on resilience, innovative marketing strategies, building loyal communities, and the transformative role of AI in business. He also offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs aiming to thrive in today’s competitive environment. Tune in for key takeaways to elevate your business success!

    Join them as they discuss:
    • The Winner's Mindset  
    • The Evolution of Marketing  
    • Building Brand Loyalty and Community  
    • The Mental Shift in Scaling  
    • Navigating Supply Chain Complexities  
    • Actionable Steps for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    Rudy Mawer     is a serial investor and CEO of Mawer Capital. He is also the CEO of multiple brands. He runs multiple businesses, including a Marketing Capital group with Kevin Harrington, the Original Shark from the TV show “Shark Tank”, where he helped over 50,000 small businesses worldwide.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    21 January 2025, 5:34 pm
  • 33 minutes 16 seconds
    From Prototype to Prime Time: How Marshall and Kevin Landed a Big Box Deal with Rak-O
    In this episode of the B2B Breakthrough podcast, host Ciara chats with Marshall Day and Kevin Sagouspe, co-owners of The Better Tool Company to discuss the journey of their startup company.
    Join them as they:
    • Highlight the key functions of their product, Rak-O.
    • Share valuable insights needed to upscale a product.
    • Implications of dealing with untrustworthy relationships.
    • Talk about the mindset that births new ideas and in turn, products.
    • Delve into the wisdom of building a successful brand.

    Marshall Day is a co-owner of The Better Tool Company with an extensive background in marketing and advertising. He is also a video director and an editor, who has been in the music business for over a decade working with some of the industry’s biggest names. He is the owner of the Mainline Film Works.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    7 January 2025, 10:47 am
  • 29 minutes 29 seconds
    How Brittany Built a Successful Nail Business: Lessons from an Inclusive Beauty Brand
    In this episode of B2B Breakthrough, host Ciara Cristo chats with Brittany Golden, Founder and CEO of IGL Nails, about her journey from side hustle to beauty industry disruptor. Brittany shares how she’s revolutionizing the press-on nail market with inclusive designs for all nail bed sizes, tackling challenges like sourcing manufacturers and scaling her brand. She also discusses empowering women through beauty, overcoming adversity, and her vision for IGL’s future. Tune in for entrepreneurial insights and inspiration!
    Join them as they discuss:
    • From Passion to Business  
    • Addressing Nail Bed Diversity  
    • Building Strong Supplier Relationships  
    • Networking for Retail Success  
    • Resilience Through Challenges  
    • Manifesting Future Success

    Brittany Golden is a wife, mompreneur, and multimedia content creator based in Los Angeles. In 2019, following her father’s passing, she left her Fortune 500 corporate career and embraced entrepreneurship during the COVID-19 era. She founded IGL Nails, a thriving press-on nail brand celebrated for its focus on individuality and inclusivity for all nail bed sizes. Brittany also shares her journey on her YouTube channel, It’s A Golden Lifestyle, inspiring over 20,000 followers with beauty trends, authenticity, and empowering community-driven content.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    19 December 2024, 10:00 am
  • 35 minutes 26 seconds
    Same Player, New Game: How Tony Parker Went from Athlete to Entrepreneur
    In this episode of B2B Breakthrough, Ciara Cristo chats with Tony Parker, four-time NBA Champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group, for a dynamic conversation on transitioning from sports to business. Tony shares his insights on the importance of resilience, adaptability, and mentorship. He discusses his ventures, including real estate, his basketball academy, and his investment group, Infinity Nine. 
    Reflecting on his work with Alibaba’s Athlete365 program, he highlights equipping athletes with tools to succeed post-retirement. The discussion delves into balancing AI innovation with human creativity, navigating entrepreneurship’s challenges, and Parker’s vision for 2025. This episode showcases Tony’s passion for empowering others to pursue dreams with determination.
    Join them as they discuss:
    • The Mantra of Dreaming Big
    • Mental Fortitude in Sports and Business
    • Tony’s ambassadorial Role with Alibaba.com
    • Building Infinity Nine Group and Basketball Academy
    • The Influence of Mentorship
    • Adapting to Technology and AI
    • Challenges of Entrepreneurship vs. Sports

    Tony Parker, a four-time NBA Champion, Finals MVP, and six-time All-Star, has seamlessly transitioned from the basketball court to the boardroom. As the founder and president of Infinity Nine Group, he leads ventures in sports, education, lifestyle, and technology. Parker is the president and majority shareholder of LDLC ASVEL and LDLC ASVEL Féminin and serves as an ambassador for innovative projects. A Hall of Famer with a competitive edge, Parker now inspires through business leadership, mentorship, and media endeavors.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    3 December 2024, 5:56 pm
  • 33 minutes 24 seconds
    From Fine Arts to Fine Jewelry: Natalie’s Entrepreneurial Journey with Etymology
    In this episode of B2B Breakthrough, our new host, Ciara Cristo, chats with Natalie Jacob, founder of Etymology Jewelry, about her creative journey and commitment to sustainability. Natalie shares how her fine arts background inspired her to build a thriving jewelry business blending vintage charm and modern style. She discusses challenges and successes in navigating the jewelry industry, from sourcing sustainable materials to connecting with customers. Packed with entrepreneurial insights, this conversation will inspire listeners to embrace their creativity and pursue their passions.
    Join them as they discuss:
    • Introduction to Natalie Jacob and Etymology Jewelry
    • From Fine Arts to Jewelry Design
    • The Essence of Etymology Jewelry
    • Navigating the Sourcing Landscape
    • Connecting with Customers
    • Balancing Art and Business
    • Insights on the Jewelry Market
    • Wisdom and Insights from Experience

    Natalie Jacob is a Brooklyn, NY native and Brooklyn-based designer and artist. As the owner and designer of Etymology Jewelry, she is an alum of MICA (The Maryland Institute College of Art) in Baltimore and the noteworthy, famed school LaGuardia HS of Music and Art in NYC. In her previous life, Natalie was (and still is!) a classically trained artist, having even featured her work at the Society of Illustrators in Manhattan. With such a creative background, Natalie takes these fine art influences to her jewelry work, her primary medium today.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    20 November 2024, 1:51 pm
  • 37 minutes 33 seconds
    Transforming Brands in the Digital Marketplace with Corey Brown
    In this episode of the B2B Breakthrough Podcast, host Sharon Gai sits down with Corey Brown, Founder of buffaBRAND Marketing, to explore how to build effective brand strategies, the evolving world of e-commerce, and buffaBRAND Marketing’s cohesive, in-house approach to client success. Corey shares insights on staying ahead of Amazon’s innovations, leveraging AI for customer engagement, and handling the growing influence of Chinese sellers in the U.S. market. He also offers valuable tips for mental well-being in the ever-demanding e-commerce world, alongside advice for brands weighing the benefits of platforms like Amazon and Walmart.
    Join them as they discuss:
    • Corey's Journey into E-Commerce and Brand Building
    • The Foundations of a Brand Strategy Framework
    • Corey's Work with Grill Perfect: A Case Study in Visual Storytelling
    • Effective Use of Amazon’s A+ Content for Brand Identity
    • Navigating Amazon’s Evolving AI Landscape
    • Defending Brand Reputation and Managing Customer Reviews
    • The Impact of New Marketplace Trends on U.S. Sellers
    • Effective Techniques for Staying Informed in a Fast-Changing Industry
    • The Importance of Building a Brand Off and On Amazon
    • The Pros and Cons of Fulfillment Options Like FBA and SFP

    As Founder of buffaBRAND Marketing, Corey has an extensive background in helping e-commerce brands build strong digital presences that thrive in competitive marketplaces. Driven by a passion for data-driven strategies and quality customer engagement, Corey offers a fresh perspective on how brands can scale effectively and maintain customer trust. His journey in e-commerce is marked by a keen focus on innovation, operational excellence, and a commitment to building resilient brands in the global marketplace.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    6 November 2024, 11:13 am
  • 36 minutes 17 seconds
    How Darrell Broke Barriers in Men's Beauty
    In this episode of the B2B Breakthrough Podcast, host Sharon Gai interviews Darrell Spencer, the founder and CEO of King's Crowning and Crowned Skin. Darrell discusses his journey from a corporate career to pioneering beauty and hair care products designed for Black men. He shares insights into omnichannel marketing, product development, and the importance of customer engagement. Darrell also touches on the challenges he faced breaking into the beauty industry, how he balances rational and emotional appeal in marketing and his vision for empowering men to embrace self-care.
    Join them as they discuss:
    • Introduction to Darrell Spencer and His Journey
    • Identifying a Market Gap
    • The Role of Creativity in Marketing
    • Launching King’s Crowning and  Crowned Skin
    • Addressing Barriers in the Beauty Industry
    • Engaging with Customers and Building Community
    • Navigating Retail and Trade Shows
    • Investment Funding and Brand Integrity
    • Personal Skincare Routine and Trends
    • Marketing Gendered Products

    As the CEO of Kings Crowning and Crowned Skin, Darrell is driven by a singular mission: to redefine men's beauty, grooming, and style with innovative, high-quality products that meet the modern man's needs. Over the years, he has built brands that combine functionality with sophistication—offering everything from protective headwear to premium skincare. Darrell is committed to enhancing how men look and feel and empowering them with the confidence that comes from using products crafted with excellence. His journey as a beauty and fashion entrepreneur is fueled by a deep passion for innovation, a relentless pursuit of quality, and a vision to elevate men’s grooming to new heights.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    24 October 2024, 10:26 am
  • 32 minutes 46 seconds
    How Ron Williams Changed His Mindset To Change His Life
    In this episode of the B2B Breakthrough Podcast, Ron Williams, a former bodybuilding champion turned eCommerce brand owner, joins host Sharon Gai. Together they explore how a mindset shift transformed Ron’s life and business, helping him overcome personal and professional challenges. He discusses his journey into the fitness industry, creating innovative products like the Iron Chestmaster and Total Body Bar, and navigating the complexities of building a brand. Ron also highlights his use of Alibaba.com for sourcing and optimizing manufacturing processes, positioning the platform as a key player in his business growth strategy. Get a deep dive into personal development, business scaling, and the impact of eCommerce on brand success.
    Join them as they discuss:
    • Introduction to Ron Williams and his background in bodybuilding
    • Ron’s accomplishments: winning Mr. Universe, Mr. Olympia, and Mr. World multiple times
    • Transitioning from bodybuilding champion to coaching and entrepreneurship
    • The concept of detoxifying life, removing toxins from food, relationships, and spirituality
    • Building eCommerce brand and providing value to companies
    • Importance of product development and innovation
    • The journey of sourcing materials and optimizing manufacturing through Alibaba.com
    • The challenge of balancing cost, quality, and overbuilding products
    • Ron’s philosophy on fitness: combining spiritual and physical health
    • Insights into resistance training for longevity, bone density, and quality of life
    • Ron’s legacy: promoting a mindset shift for faith, family, fitness, and finances

    Ron Williams is one of the most decorated natural bodybuilders, earning titles like Mr. Natural Universe, Natural Olympia, and Mr. Natural World, as well as the “Natural Bodybuilder of the Decade” award. He authored the Faith & Fat Loss book and developed the Ultimate Fat Loss System, blending physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. With over 40 years of experience, 
    Ron has been a fitness coach, professor, and Master Fitness Trainer for the U.S. Army. He also created the Iron Chestmaster and Total Body Bar, holding five patents. As an international speaker and pastor, Ron inspires others through his personal transformation story. He frequently partners with Alibaba.com to source and manufacture products, enhancing his entrepreneurial ventures. Ron's mission is to help millions achieve healthier, toxin-free lives, guided by his core principles of faith, family, fitness, and finance.
    If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    8 October 2024, 9:36 am
  • 30 minutes 20 seconds
    How Fred Espinal Turned $500 Into a Cigar Empire
    In this episode of the B2B Breakthrough podcast, Sharon sits down with Fredelyn Espinal, CEO of Espinal Puro LLC and Hanley Cigar Company. Fredelyn shares his inspiring journey from the Dominican Republic to building a successful cigar business despite having no prior experience. The conversation explores his passion for cigars, the cultural roots of his brand, and his innovative use of social media during COVID-19. Fredelyn’s insights on dedication, community, and cultural integrity offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.
    Join them as they discuss:

    • Fredelyn Espinal's Journey from $500 to a Cigar Empire
    • Building a Cigar Brand from Scratch with Cultural Roots
    • Innovative Marketing Strategies for Launching a Cigar Brand
    • Comedic Cigar Packaging Featuring Chicken-Themed Comics
    • Modernizing Cigar Culture for Diverse and Younger Audiences
    • Personal Touch and Community Engagement in Cigar Business
    • The Rising Popularity and Diverse Origins of Cigars in China
    • Strategies for Building and Expanding a Cigar E-Commerce Brand

    Fredelyn Espinal, born in Bonao, Dominican Republic, and raised in the United States, is the visionary founder of Espinal Puro LLC and Hanley Cigar Company. In 2019, Fredelyn launched Espinal Puro to unite and celebrate the Latino community in New Jersey through cigars. Inspired by his grandfather, Don Estanislao Peña Duverge, who dedicated his life to public service, Fredelyn’s brand embodies cultural pride and connection across generations.

    Espinal Puro is recognized for its luxurious blends crafted in the Dominican Republic. Fan favorites like El Gallo Coronado and Espuelas are gaining popularity in the Latino community. These cigars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and refined smoking experience, appealing to seasoned aficionados and first-time smokers.

    Fredelyn is also deeply committed to giving back and supporting local businesses, artists, and events in New Jersey and his native Dominican Republic. Thus, Espinal Puro is a true symbol of community, heritage, and excellence.

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.Check out our three most downloaded episodes:
     Previous guests include Rudy Mawer, CEO of Mawer Capital; Tony Parker, four-time NBA champion and Founder and President of Infinity Nine Group; Mike McClary, CEO of Amazing.com; Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Media; Kia-Shun Voltz, Chief Executive Officer of ShampooTime; Matt Jones, Founder of The Crease Beast; and Julianna Dahbura, Founder of Deco Beauty. 

    B2B Breakthrough Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
    24 September 2024, 11:25 am
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