Global eCommerce Leaders Podcast

Navigating Global Trade Chaos with Jes Crownover, VP e-Commerce & Digital Solutions, Livingston International

michael@meleblanc.co (Jess Crownover) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:05:00 +0000

In this episode of the Global eCommerce Leaders Podcast, hosts Michael LeBlanc and Jim Okamura welcome Jes Crownover, Vice President, e-Commerce & Digital Solutions, to discuss the rapidly changing world of cross-border e-commerce. From tariffs and customs compliance to de minimis, data readiness, AI, and reverse logistics, this episode offers a masterclass for brands navigating global trade disruption.

With 25 years of experience across UPS, FedEx, customs brokerage, and global trade management, Jess describes her career path from UPS operations to advising brands on complex international commerce. She illustrates Livingston International’s Canadian roots, global reach, and capabilities in customs brokerage, trade consulting, freight, and technology-enabled solutions around the world.

A major theme of the episode is how much global e-commerce has changed since 2020. Jes explains that the pandemic permanently accelerated online shopping behaviour and cross-border demand, while 2025 has emerged as another turning point due to tariffs, shifting sourcing strategies, and the end of de minimis advantages in key markets. For brands, that means rethinking supply chains, market participation, warehousing, returns, and cost structures. She notes that not every company will survive the next 12 to 18 months unchanged, and those that do will be the ones willing to adapt quickly and strategically.

The episode zeroes in on a central theme in global commerce: the critical role of data. Jes emphasizes that accurate, complete, usable product and shipment data are the key to success in customs, compliance, and technology. She notes that marketing descriptions aren't customs descriptions, and brands unaware of this distinction risk delays, penalties, or extra costs. Good data, she adds, is the foundation for AI, automation, and scalable border clearance.

Michael, Jim, and Jes focus on the importance of partnerships, regulatory expertise, and reverse logistics in global trade. Jes emphasizes that strong partners are vital in an unpredictable landscape driven by tariffs, evolving regulations, and consumer demands for transparency and speed. She issues a direct warning and call to action: brands must immediately understand their goods, data, and cross-border operations to prepare for ongoing disruption. This episode is essential for anyone selling internationally.

About:

Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Global Leaders Reunite: Insights from the GELF NYC Dinner and What’s Ahead for 2026

michael@meleblanc.co (Michael LeBlanc) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:05:00 +0000

In this episode of The Global Ecommerce Leaders Podcast, hosts Michael LeBlanc and Jim Okamura deliver a comprehensive deep dive into the state of global retail and ecommerce, anchored by insights from the recent GELF NYC reboot dinner—the first major in-person gathering of the community in some time. With global executives from leading international brands in the room, the event served as both a reunion and a reality check on the forces reshaping cross-border commerce.

Jim and Michael reflect on the energy in New York—highlighted by lively discussions around brand integrity, organizational design, and the rising complexity of global go-to-market strategies. Leaders shared how they manage brand consistency across distributors, marketplaces, and wholesale partners, while simultaneously navigating volatile regulatory environments and shifting tariff structures. The hosts explore how pricing—once a simple currency-conversion exercise—has become a multidimensional challenge as identical goods now carry drastically different landed costs depending on origin, routing, and trade agreements.

AI also dominated the conversation. Executives compared notes on AI-enhanced content creation, its accelerating demand for high-quality assets, and the tension between efficiency and brand protection. Michael highlights how generative AI is already intersecting with marketplaces, reshaping purchase journeys, and raising questions about attribution, KPIs, and data governance. Jim adds perspectives from his Ebeltoft global meetings, where consultants from Europe, APAC, and beyond echoed similar themes: AI is advancing faster than any previous digital disruption, and brands worldwide are preparing for what many are calling the first true “AI-powered holiday season.”

The episode also previews GELF’s next six months. First up: a Canada-focused virtual event in early December to analyze cross-border performance and help U.S. brands calibrate their 2026 strategies. Then, an LA reboot dinner in February to reconnect with West Coast leaders, followed by planning for a Global Experts Workshop in early 2026—a hands-on symposium for senior global executives managing complex international networks.

Finally, Michael and Jim touch on the growing role of NRF’s global shows, the rise of NRF Europe and APAC, and the renewed international momentum behind retail innovation gatherings. As always, they close by inviting brands to reach out, share their challenges, and help shape future GELF programming. This episode is a rich, timely resource for anyone navigating global ecommerce, cross-border growth, trade uncertainty or the accelerating influence of AI on international retail.

About:

From TikTok Shops to Target Plus to AI Tools: Jessie Chen of ChannelEngine on Social Commerce and the Latest Seller Trends

michael@meleblanc.co (Jessie Chen) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:05:00 +0000

In this dynamic episode of the Global eCommerce Leaders Podcast, hosts Michael LeBlanc and Jim Okamura welcome Jessie Chen, Go To Market Lead at ChannelEngine, to explore the evolving landscape of global marketplaces, omnichannel integration, and the rise of AI-powered commerce.

Jessie begins with her unexpected career path—from special education teacher and humanitarian program designer in rural China to thriving SaaS and eCommerce professional in New York City. Now leading business development for ChannelEngine's North American operations, she shares how the Dutch-based company evolved from a European marketplace integrator to a fast-growing global player connecting brands with shoppers across Amazon, Walmart, Target Plus, TikTok Shop, and beyond.

The conversation dives into fresh insights from ChannelEngine's two major 2025 reports: the Consumer Behavior Study and the Global Marketplace Seller Trends Report. Jessie reveals how shoppers are increasingly treating marketplaces as search engines, beginning their discovery journeys directly on Amazon, Macy's, or TikTok, rather than relying on Google. Meanwhile, sellers are diversifying faster than ever—listing on six to ten marketplaces on average—and bracing for AI to emerge as the next major transactional channel.

Jessie and the hosts also explore how traditional retailers like Lowe's and Home Depot are reinventing themselves through third-party marketplaces, creating new opportunities for brands to reach customers in unexpected ways. The conversation shifts to the explosive growth of social commerce, led by TikTok Shop, where the buying power of older consumers has surprised many brands. Jessie breaks down why success on TikTok has little to do with paid advertising and everything to do with authentic, data-driven content and consistent product storytelling.

Looking ahead to the upcoming GELF ReBoot Dinner in New York City, Jessie predicts lively debate on three hot topics:

The shift toward hybrid 1P/3P marketplace strategies
The diminishing ROI of custom integrations versus modern SaaS solutions
How brands can responsibly adopt AI tools to scale operations without losing human touch or data integrity

Jessie concludes with actionable advice for e-commerce leaders: stop over-customizing, start vetting partners based on shared growth incentives, and approach AI thoughtfully. Whether you're a DTC brand or an enterprise seller, this episode delivers a roadmap for thriving in the new era of global marketplace commerce.

Download their Marketplace Seller Trends Report

https://www.channelengine.com/lp/marketplace-seller-trends-report

About:

Global Trade Uncertainty, GELF’s Reboot, Dinner in The Big Apple, and the Road to 2026!

michael@meleblanc.co (Michael LeBlanc) — Fri, 3 Oct 2025 07:05:32 +0000

In the latest episode of The Global eCommerce Leaders Podcast, co-hosts Michael LeBlanc and Jim Okamura return to the mic to tackle one of the most pressing issues in international retail: uncertainty in global commerce. From the shifting dynamics of tariffs and the elimination of de minimis thresholds to the resilience of brands doubling down on cross-border strategies, this conversation is essential listening for executives navigating today’s volatile environment.

Jim reflects on a busy summer spent speaking at industry events, including Shoptalk, the Parcel Forum, and gatherings hosted by international trade groups. Across these forums, the message was consistent: brands and retailers need a dedicated community to share strategies, find new growth opportunities, and adapt to disruptive policy shifts. This insight has energized the GELF team to reimagine the role of the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) in 2026 and beyond.

The episode revisits GELF’s origins over a decade ago, when it first brought together a niche group of international retail leaders in a whiskey bar to discuss global expansion. Since then, GELF has grown into the only U.S.-based conference and community fully dedicated to international retail growth, serving as the go-to destination for executives seeking best practices in eCommerce, wholesale, licensing, and franchising. Today, GELF is widening its lens beyond eCommerce alone to focus on the broader landscape of global commerce strategies, from DTC and marketplaces to partnerships and distribution.

The conversation dives into the financial impact of policy changes on major brands like Lululemon and Coach (Tapestry Group), who are navigating steep tariff hits and recalibrating inbound and outbound supply chains. Yet despite these headwinds, international VPs remain resolute: global expansion is still a top strategic priority. As Jim notes, companies are treating tariffs and policy shifts not as reasons to retreat but as problems to solve on the road to growth.

Looking forward, Michael and Jim unveil plans for a Global Experts Workshop in early 2026, designed to serve advanced global brands with deep-dive sessions on issues such as brand integrity, pricing architecture, and international organizational design. But before that, GELF is reactivating the community with a private executive dinner in New York City on October 22, 2025, co-hosted with Channel Engine and Livingston International. This intimate gathering will set the stage for GELF’s 2026 agenda and reconnect leaders in a collaborative environment.

Ultimately, this episode captures the spirit of GELF’s mission: providing a trusted platform where global retail executives can share experiences, address challenges, and build the strategies that will define the future of global commerce.

About:

Global e-Commerce Leaders Forum Reset: Jim Okamura, Co-Founder of GELF, with a tribute to Kent Allen and sharing "What's Next"

michael@meleblanc.co (Jim Okamura) — Wed, 9 Apr 2025 07:24:42 +0000

In this insightful new installment of the Global e-Commerce Leaders Podcast, host Michael LeBlanc reconnects with Jim Okamura, Co-Founder of the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum (GELF), to discuss the future of global retail, the evolving mission of GELF, and how the community is responding to today’s rapidly changing international marketplace. They begin by reflecting on the legacy of the late Kent Allen, a fellow GELF Co-Founder whose passing deeply impacted the organization and the broader e-commerce sector. Jim shares stories of Kent’s passion for connecting people and forging solutions, highlighting how Kent’s genuine commitment to global growth laid the groundwork for GELF’s unique blend of community and expertise.

Throughout the conversation, Jim explains the necessity of reimagining GELF’s programming and events calendar to address the latest complexities in worldwide commerce. From evolving trade regulations and tariffs to the shifting needs of both established and emerging brands, he stresses the importance of gathering global retail leaders more frequently to tackle pressing concerns in real time. This rethinking involves a deeper focus on segmentation—recognizing that seasoned international brands need more advanced strategies, while newcomers require foundational guidance on cross-border logistics, market entry, and localized marketing.

Listeners will learn about planned workshops, digital channels, and in-person meetups designed to foster constructive dialogue and knowledge sharing. Jim previews how GELF aims to partner with complementary associations—such as those in logistics, language translation, and supply chain—to further expand the ecosystem of global practitioners. By diving into topics like cross-border wholesaling and franchising, along with direct-to-consumer e-commerce, GELF is poised to address a full spectrum of global commerce opportunities.

Finally, Michael and Jim look ahead, encouraging community members—ranging from enterprise veterans to rising DTC players—to share feedback, collaborate on new initiatives, and join a reinvigorated conversation about global retail expansion. The episode concludes with a heartfelt dedication to Kent Allen’s memory, reminding listeners of the spirit of connection and innovation that underpins the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum. Whether you’re a seasoned multinational brand or exploring your first international venture, this episode provides invaluable insights and a roadmap for thriving in the ever-evolving world of cross-border commerce.

Support the GoFundMe for Kent Allen's memorial bench here:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/memorial-bench-for-kent-at-golden-gate-park

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Global Goes Local with Dan Brewster, SVP Marketing, ESW

michael@meleblanc.co (Dan Brewster) — Tue, 5 Dec 2023 16:41:15 +0000

My special guest on this episode is Dan Brewster, the Senior Vice President of Marketing for ESW. ESW empowers the world's best-loved retailers and brands to make global shopping better, safer, simpler and faster end-to-end. Dan shares timely insights into the evolution of cross-border commerce and the transition to a multi-local solution. Stay tuned as we explore the impact of data, AI, and global trends on e-commerce and international retail.

This podcast is brought to you by Stream Commerce.

Get ready for the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum L.A. 2024, February 22nd. Learn more here.

About Dan

Dan is now the SVP of Marketing for ESW, the leader in global DTC eCommerce solutions. ESW provides an enterprise eCommerce platform, domestic and cross-border logistics, optimized payments, full-service business operations and marketing services for retail brands.

Joining ESW as a part of their acquisition of Scalefast, Dan was integral to managing the merger of marketing operations and branding. He has built an international team of demand generation and content marketing experts who collaborate with sales to execute highly targeted ABM campaigns, content marketing and PR for an organization that is now more than 1000 strong, with a record pipeline.

He joined Scalefast after serving as SVP Marketing & Digital Commerce for contemporary women’s apparel brand Planet Blue and its private label Blue Life. Dan led integrated marketing and the digital transformation of the brand’s cross-channel sales and operations. He was instrumental in Planet Blue’s deployment of Klarna in its retail stores, the first brick and mortar application of buy now pay later technology.

Before joining Planet Blue, he was the principal of Marketing Endeavors Consulting, bringing close to three decades of integrated marketing experience to a portfolio of CPG, retail, and technology clients. His background includes sports event marketing and production, B2B lead gen and corporate marketing, and management of two performance marketing agencies.

While at Onestop Internet and eBay Enterprise, he leveraged a multifaceted skill set in leading client services, strategy, digital marketing, and business development roles for SaaS-based e-commerce solutions delivering hundreds of millions in annual retail sales for global brands.

He has served in leading marketing roles for the Phoenix Coyotes, Los Angeles Dodgers, and USC Trojans, leading the early development of online ticketing and merchandise sales platforms while executing all sponsor activation, advertising, loyalty programs, promotions, and in-venue entertainment.

He has won national recognition from the Promotion Marketing Association for Hispanic marketing programs at the Dodgers and is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and events. He has also served as an adjunct instructor for the University of San Francisco’s School of Sports Management. He is a graduate of the University of Southern California (BA ’93; MBA ’02).

Specialties include account based marketing, content marketing, consumer behavior, marketing analytics, event production, and emerging cross-channel retail technologies and strategies.

About Michael

Michael LeBlanc is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada’s top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus Global eCommerce Leaders podcast, and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois. You can learn more about Michael here or on LinkedIn.

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

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Global Expansion, the Critical Role of Product Innovation & the Role of Failure with Jenna Flateman Posner, Chief Digital Officer, Solo Brands

michael@meleblanc.co (Jenna Flateman Posner) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 21:34:14 +0000

In this episode, we meet the force of nature, Jenna Flateman Posner, just two months into her new gig with innovative home products brand, wholesaler and direct-to-consumer retailer Solo Brands. We cover a lot of ground in this interview, not unlike what Jenna did as a University athlete and member of the USA Women’s Sevens rugby team.

Hear more about how Solo Brands has dedicated country sites, distribution in Canada and Europe, and the best days. Learn how Jenna prioritized technology investment with a mind to global reach and presence.

Thanks to Stream Commerce for their support in making this episode happen.

Learn more about GELF L.A. 2024

About Jenna

As the Chief Digital Officer at Solo Brands, I lead the strategy and execution of digital initiatives across our portfolio of direct-to-consumer brands. With over 15 years of experience in the retail and technology sectors, I have a track record of driving growth, innovation, and customer loyalty through digital channels and platforms.

My core competencies include tech strategy, innovation, customer relationship management, online marketing, and strategic partnerships. I leverage my entrepreneurial mindset and industry expertise to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities, optimize operational efficiency, and foster cross-functional collaboration. My mission is to deliver exceptional digital experiences that enhance the value proposition and competitive advantage of Solo Brands and its partners.

About Michael

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

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State of the Art Integration of Live Shopping with Julian Guevara, SVP DTC, What Goes Around Comes Around, and Sophie Abrahamsson, President of Americas at Bambuser

michael@meleblanc.co (Sophie Abrahamsson, Julian Guevara) — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 19:23:37 +0000

In this episode, I welcome back to the podcast Sophie Abrahamsson, President of Americas @ Bambuser. With Sophie is Julian Guevara, Senior Vice President of Direct to Consumer with What Goes Around Comes Around.

I had the opportunity to visit Julian's store in SoHo recently and was super impressed by the business, their live-streaming studio and the team behind this innovative retailer.

One quick note: I had a mic gremlin early in the interview with Shopie's mic, but I resolved it quickly for the majority of our time together. Let's listen in now!

Thanks to Stream Commerce for their support in making this episode happen.

About Sophie

Education: Bachelors Degree in Media & Communications from Università degli Studi di Firenze.

Experience: +10yr of international experience from e-commerce and marketing within retail. Marketing manager for LUISAVIAROMA, Head of Digital for & Other Stories and various business development positions at H&M group.

About Kent

I help innovative digital companies tell their story and build relationships with prospective and established clients and partners. I've spent the last twenty years providing market analysis, research & thought leadership, market development and consulting services within the ecommerce technology and digital marketing community.

Current focus: Globalization via cross-border ecommerce, marketplaces and international retail expansion. Co-founded the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum to foster community among and provide education to digital professionals with international growth objectives.

My 20+ years of experience in the digital commerce and marketing industry and strong personal connections have provided me with opportunities to stay ahead of the curve and explore "what's next" for my clients and our audiences.

My research, content marketing & thought leadership skills coupled with my strong client interface skills allow me to define & execute next-generation marketing and commerce strategies & improve business performance.

Specialties/Skills: Market Research, Communications, Strategy, Planning, Best Practices, Trend, Data and Competitive Analysis, Public Speaking, Writing and Expression

About Jim

Jim Okamura is Partner with McMillan Doolittle - The Retail Experts. Jim has more than 25 years of consulting experience focused on the retail industry, including 20+ years in digital transformation strategies for retailers, brands and retail-related companies.

Specializations include cross-border & global ecommerce and organization design for digital transformations. Through our global alliance, Ebeltoft Group, we have deep retail expertise in more than 20 countries.

Clients include Wahl Clipper, Gap, adidas, Hunter Fan, Bassett Furniture, Giant Eagle, Federated Coop, Harley-Davidson, Baccarat, DSW, Tractor Supply Co., MasterCard, Verizon Wireless, Neiman Marcus, Navy Exchange, Lands’ End, Microsoft, The Body Shop International, L Brands, Timberland, Media Markt, Lowe’s Companies, Pep Boys, Crate and Barrel, Loyalty One, VISA, and Cadillac Fairview.

Jim is a Co-founder of the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum, a community and conference series focused on global and cross-border ecommerce. Digital Retail Globalization, such as riding China's ecommerce growth wave, is important for brands, retailers and distribution partners of all sizes.

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

About:

Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2023 DeBrief with co-founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Jim Okamura) — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 20:40:26 +0000

Greetings and welcome to Season Three of the Global eCommerce Leaders #podcast, picking up from the New York edition of the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum, where I met and chatted with some of the most interesting global commerce leaders in the world live in person in the Stream Commerce podcast studio, gathered as part of the thriving GELF community.

This season is brought to you by Stream Commerce, a full-service consultancy that ideates, strategizes, and executes growth marketing solutions for our clients. They partner with people and brands they believe in to create websites that are deeply committed to the user experience and drive omnichannel digital transformation. As the world changes, they listen, and they deliver world-class e-commerce websites on Shopify Plus.

In this episode kicking us off for our third season, GELF co-founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura take us through what they heard on the stage and in the hallways of GELF NYC 2023 and get us ready for GELF LA, February 22, 2024.

About Kent

About Jim

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

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Global eCommerce Leaders Forum October NYC 2023 Preview

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Jim Okamura) — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 19:09:30 +0000

On Thursday October 12th, the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) community will be back in New York City live and in-person for another full day of learning, sharing and networking. Join global ecommerce leaders from leading DTC and retail brands for keynotes, breakout sessions, peer/executive discussions/meetups and networking as we return to Convene Midtown Westin October!

In this episode, GELF co-founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura give us an exclusive preview of the fantastic speakers and thought leadership that is part of the agenda for the GELF NYC 2023 forum. I'll be there in the StreamCommerce podcasting studio chatting with the key industry players that bring this community alive!

Are you a retail ecommerce leader interested in speaking at GELF NYC 2023 on Thursday, October 12th? If so, please contact the GELF producers by emailing speak@globalecommerce.co

As always, GELF NYC 2023 is a retailer/DTC brand-only, sponsor-only event. If you are a cross-border solution provider, an ecommerce platform or marketplace operator, software company, agency, data aggregator, logistics provider or other global ecommerce solution or service provider interested in sponsoring and attending GELF NYC ’23, we would love to have you join us as a sponsor. Please contact sponsor@globalecommerce.co

About Kent

About Jim

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

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Jessica Quick & Denise Dente, Co-Founders and Managing Principals at Buzz Beauté, live from GELF 2023 in LA

michael@meleblanc.co (Jessica Quick, Denise Dente) — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 18:28:49 +0000

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the Los Angeles Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in early 2023. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service Shopify Plus eCommerce agency delivering world-class Shopify Plus digital storefronts & growth marketing solutions. Stream Commerce can help you navigate the new Markets, Markets Pro and Global-e international capabilities native to Shopify and work hand-in-hand to help you drive profitable global sales.

And if you have questions about whether or not your international Klaviyo email marketing and paid performance marketing with Meta and Google is working as hard as you are, call the experts at Stream Commerce; they can help you maximize your return.

The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum LA 2023 offered retail professionals strategic insights and actionable takeaways about how industry leaders are tackling their top Global DTC and cross-border eCommerce challenges – and how they are successfully making a case for investing in global retail growth.

Jessica Quick & Denise Dente, Co-Founders and Managing Principals at Buzz Beauté join me on the podcast and we discuss the global beauty industry and winning strategies for brands and retailers alike. Here is a link to Jessica and Denise's great beauty podcast.

If you liked this podcast, you can follow it on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google, the Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and review with a five-star rating and be sure and recommend us to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com. Be sure and block off your calendar for the next GELF event in New York City on October 12, 2023! I'm your host Michael LeBlanc, strategic retail advisor, keynote speaker and podcaster, and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn.

About Jessica Quick & Denise Dente

Denise

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦 𝗠𝗘
I thrive on designing cutting-edge DTC and BTB growth strategies, developing innovative products, and expanding markets in the consumer goods, beauty, fragrance, and fashion industries. I have a global approach to shaping and leading cross-functional teams to build organizational strategy and position companies for unprecedented growth.

With my passion for achievement, I leverage my deep industry knowledge and relentless focus to design game-changing initiatives to ignite a brand’s potential, accelerate ROI, and unlock opportunities to transform brands into industry pacesetters.

◆ 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗟𝗨𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘 & 𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗔𝗖𝗧
✸ Exploded international division expansion of professional beauty products into 90+ countries, and outperformed the market with concurrent net sales and EBITDA growth.
✸ Boosted sales of fragrance brand by +51% in 12 months, created 4 new products and added DTC & subscription box channel.
✸ Acquired $1M in new business and developed custom products for iconic brands, including Ralph Lauren, Zara, and The Body Shop.
✸ International speaker, presenter, panelist, podcast host, author, and industry expert.

◆ 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗢𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗔𝗬
➥ “Denise clearly loves what she does…she is never afraid to take on too much or to shoulder additional responsibility. Denise’s competitive nature set the bar high.”

➥ “Denise is iconic in sales and will lead any company and team to success.”

◆ 𝗣𝗨𝗕𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 & 𝗣𝗢𝗗𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗧
𝙒𝙃𝙄𝙋 𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙀 𝙈𝙊𝙉𝙀𝙔 (https://whipfiremoney.com/) is an easy-to-use international guidebook for beauty brands filled with practical information and insights PLUS checklists, red flags, and insider tips essential for doing business abroad.

𝘽𝙀𝘼𝙐𝙏𝙔 𝙄𝙎 𝙔𝙊𝙐𝙍 𝘽𝙐𝙎𝙄𝙉𝙀𝙎𝙎 (https://www.buzzbeaute.com/podcasts) is the largest beauty and wellness weekly business podcast with listeners in 120 countries.

◆ 𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗦𝗘
✓Global Sales & Marketing
✓International Expansion
✓Strategic Planning & Execution
✓Brand & Channel Strategy
✓Cross-Functional Leadership
✓GTM Planning
✓P&L Management
✓Product Development
✓Project Management
✓Talent Development

If you need strong growth- and results-driven leadership to move your organization to its next level of success, contact me at denise@buzzbeaute.com.

About Michael

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Nisha Oza, Head of PR & Partnerships, KOS, live from GELF 2023 in LA

michael@meleblanc.co (Nisha Oza) — Tue, 16 May 2023 02:15:12 +0000

Nisha Oza returns to the podcast on this episode and delivers a social media and influencer management masterclass. Now expanding her expertise beyond fashion and into wellness and better living internationally with KOS, a plant-based nutrition brand, Nisha breaks down the tradecraft of influencer marketing and shares the passion she brings to her craft.

About Nisha

Passionate, well-connected, and fashion-obsessed PR & influencer relations expert experienced in both new & traditional media, with proven track record of growing digital brand & social media presence, managing VIP relationships, securing top-notch press placements, & driving e-commerce sales. Stellar leadership, interpersonal, communication, written, project management, & content creation skills. Well-versed in both the creative & analytical sides of fashion.

About Michael

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Jon Safran, CEO, KEH Camera, live from GELF 2023 in LA

michael@meleblanc.co (Jon Safran) — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 07:05:00 +0000

In this episode, we meet Jon Safran, Chief Executive Officer, KEH Camera, a leading recommerce company and the World's Largest Pre-Owned Camera Dealer. They have a constantly replenished inventory of over 65,000 items in stock and have had a stellar customer service reputation since 1979.

About Jon

Energetic business leader with a demonstrated history of success in the Re-Commerce, Consumer Products, Technology, and Diversified Industrial market segments.

Focused on driving profitable growth organically through new product development / innovation, complimented by strategic acquisitions.

Builds aligned and accountable teams, backed by scalable and sustainable processes. Passionate about delivering differentiated value to the customer. Strong ability to develop strategy and ensure that it gets executed across the organization.

Skillset includes Cross-Functional Team Leadership, Marketing & Sales Management, New Product Development & Commercialization, Financial and P&L Management, Strategic Planning, Global Business Development, and Productivity & Process Development.

About Michael

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Catherine Hoffman Seaton, VP Marketing at Windsor Fashions & Caroline Nuckolls, Head of Sales - Americas at Bambuser live from GELF 2023 in LA

michael@meleblanc.co (Catherine Hoffman Seaton, Caroline Nuckolls) — Mon, 3 Apr 2023 19:55:01 +0000

In this episode, we meet Catherine Hoffman Seaton, Vice President of Marketing at Windsor Fashions & Caroline Nuckolls, Head of Sales - Americas at Bambuser

About Catherine

As head of the global marketing team at Windsor, my focus is on engaging and inspiring customers across all touch points to drive brand awareness and loyalty. This includes leading all strategy, budget, operations and team across:

-Performance Marketing (seo, sem, pla, display, paid social, affiliate)
-Customer Marketing (crm, loyalty, email, sms)
-Community Marketing (owned social, influencer, blog)
-Brand Marketing (pr, partnerships)
-Retail Marketing (in store marketing, local marketing, mall marketing)
-Creative Graphic Design and Copy
-Windsor Live

With over 20 years experience in leading data driven customer centric marketing teams for multichannel retailers, I have held roles at brands such as Gap, Harry & David, Harbor Freight Tools, HSNi, Torrid and Windsor. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona and my MBA from Dominican College and currently reside in southern California where I enjoy the year round sunshine.

About Michael

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

About:

Benjamin Cohen, Co-founder & COO at Glopal, live from GELF 2023 in LA

michael@meleblanc.co (Benjamin Cohen) — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 17:03:36 +0000

In this episode, we meet Benjamin Cohen, Co-founder & COO at Glopal

About Benjamin

Passionate entrepreneur.

Co-Founder & Board member at WebInterpret, the leading international e-commerce software for Marketplaces.
Co-Founder & COO at Glopal, the leading international e-commerce software for Online Stores.

We help e-merchants to sell efficiently worldwide.
Dozens of thousands merchants are using our solutions to increase their international sales.

We are a team of 250 Cross Border trade experts and we operate in 7 countries on 3 continents.

Don't hesitate to contact me to talk about e-commerce, SaaS, business models, operations that scale, sailing, skiing, flying, ...

About Michael

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

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Michael Relich, Co-CEO, Pacsun and Matthew Merrilees: CEO, North America, Global-e, Live from GELF 2023 in LA

michael@meleblanc.co (Michael Relich, Matthew Merrilees) — Mon, 6 Mar 2023 08:05:00 +0000

In this episode, we meet Michael Relich, Co-CEO, Pacsun and Matthew Merrilees: CEO, North America, Global-e.

About Michael

Business Leadership Experience in Highly Complex Global Environments (Retail, Wholesale & Licensing), Strong Technical and Digital Skills

20-year executive career developing high-performing organizations, building infrastructures, strengthening operations and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to drive business transformation and position companies for scalable and profitable growth in both domestic and international markets.

Known for approachable leadership style and ability to create and sell a compelling vision, engage individuals at all levels and foster a culture rooted in collaboration, operational excellence and data-driven decision making.

Cross-functional executive experience with a leadership background and deep expertise in:
Strategic Planning / Omnichannel Retailing / E-Commerce / Retail & Supply Chain Operations / Sales & Marketing / Business Process, Information Technology & Data / Organizational Design & Development / Change Management Board, Investor & Cross-Cultural Business Relations (w/ conversational Mandarin proficiency)

About Matthew

Global-e is the leading provider of comprehensive cross-border solutions and we continue to make significant investments into the North America market!

Led by a team of experienced executives with broad and diverse expertise, we provide a unique technology-based, end-to-end solution for online merchants to handle all their cross-border needs.

As Chief Executive Officer, I am responsible for all aspects of the country’s International e-commerce business. I travel often to meet and learn from team members and employees around the country, giving my time and attention to ensure everyone understands the critical role they play and value they bring to delivering best-in-class service to our customers – locally and internationally. My focus is to ensure we are investing in our people and putting a hyper focus on our conversion to ensure the continued growth and quality for our customers.

Through a simple single integration we remove all friction points to sell globally. Coupled with our strong analytics and international market insights, we deliver huge sales uplift to our clients, increase customer satisfaction and most importantly boost conversion.

Simply “Go Global. Be Local.”

About Michael

Be sure and check out Michael's latest venture for fun and influencer riches - Last Request Barbecue, his YouTube BBQ cooking channel!

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Deborah Weinswig 韋葆蘭 CEO & Founder at Coresight Research live from GELF NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Deborah Weinswig) — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 11:55:10 +0000

Greetings and welcome to a special episode recorded live in the on-site Stream Commerce podcasting studio at the New York City Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in September 2022. These episodes are presented by Stream Commerce, a full-service, full-funnel e-commerce consultancy bringing together the boldest and brightest innovators, strategists, and e-commerce experts. They are the Shopify Plus expert that does more than build sites.

The Global eCommerce Leaders Forum NYC 2022 brought together thought leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands were joined by digital natives and digitally-led brands from the fashion and apparel world, health, cosmetics and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for one full day of education, sharing and networking. Let's listen in now!

On this episode we meet Deborah Weinswig 韋葆蘭 CEO & Founder at Coresight Research, who I last spoke to along with Steve Dennis on the Remarkable Retail #podcast

If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.

Check out the upcoming - this week - GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.

The program theme for GELF LA 2023 is Scaling Customer Engagement Globally. GELF speakers will consistently deliver an energetic and engaging combination of global eCommerce strategy, cross-border tactics, and best practices. See you there, and until then, safe travels!

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Alexa Ritacco, Chief Marketing Officer at Jenni Kayne live from GELF NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Alexa Ritacco) — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 22:09:01 +0000

On this episode we meet Alexa Ritacco, Chief Marketing Officer at Jenni Kayne

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.

Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.

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Jean Kany, Vice President - Head of Global Enterprise Retail chez CITCON live from GELF NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Jean Kany) — Wed, 8 Feb 2023 21:41:57 +0000

On this episode we meet 康博尚 Jean Kany, Vice President - Head of Global Enterprise Retail chez CITCON

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.

Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.

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Nita Lathia, Head of Marketplaces at Passport, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Nita Lathia) — Thu, 5 Jan 2023 22:44:52 +0000

On this episode we meet Nita Lathia, Head of Marketplaces at Passport, the modern international shipping carrier for e-commerce.

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.

Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.

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Peter McMath, CRO for WPIC Marketing + Technologies live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Peter McMath) — Thu, 5 Jan 2023 00:38:49 +0000

On this episode we meet Peter McMath, Chief Revenue Officer for WPIC Marketing + Technologies, speaks to being successful on Chinese and global social media.

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com.

Check out the upcoming GELF LA event on February 22nd, 2023.

About:

Stephanie Rado Taormina, Founder at Have Some Fun Today live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Stephanie Rado Taormina) — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 08:05:00 +0000

On this episode, Stephanie Rado Taormina, Founder at Have Some Fun Today, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

About Stephanie

After graduating from the prestigious Fashion BFA program at Parsons School of Design in NYC, Stephanie worked with some of the best designers in the business. Stephanie has spent more than 20 years in the industries of Fashion, Interiors, Manufacturing and Design. Stephanie has travelled globally and resides her business in the town of Wyomissing, PA where she operates her upscale interior design and fine art business. In July of 2014, Stephanie founded the lines HAVE SOME FUN TODAY Couture and HAVE SOME FUN TODAY HOME, a fashion, fine art, home furnishings and accessory line inspired by her late father's legacy. The first collection will be available in January 2015 on line and in retailers. To carry HAVE SOME FUN TODAY products in your retail location, please send Stephanie a private message.

About Michael

Michael is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions with C-level executives and participated on thought leadership panels worldwide. Michael was recently added to ReThink Retail’s prestigious Top 100 Global Retail Influencers for a second year in 2022.

Michael is also the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts, including Canada’s top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus the Remarkable Retail with author Steve Dennis, Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois. Most recently, Michael launched Conversations with CommerceNext, a podcast focussed on retail eCommerce, digital marketing and retail careers - all available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and all major podcast platforms. Michael is also the producer and host of the “Last Request Barbeque” channel on YouTube where he cooks meals to die for and influencer riches.

If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform. Please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-border commerce industry.

About:

Patrick Frith, Global Trade Executive, Avalara, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Patrick Frith) — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 04:32:32 +0000

On this episode, Patrick Frith, Global Trade Executive, Avalara, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

About Michael

=You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com. Be sure and visit our all-new YouTube site, where you will find plenty of excellent cross-border content from several of our events.

About:

Lynn Power CEO & Co-Founder, MASAMI Haircare, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Lynn Power) — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:05:00 +0000

On this episode, Lynn Power CEO & Co-Founder, MASAMI Haircare, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

About Lynn

Advertising executive turned entrepreneur with a passion for leveraging creative thinking to build businesses -- and ultimately help brands survive and thrive. Strong experience in cultural & business transformation, digital strategy, consumer insights, talent design and marketing modernization. Member of Women's Forum of NY, CEW, Betaworks.

About Michael

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Brian Bourke, Global Chief Commercial Officer at SEKO Logistics, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Brian Bourke) — Tue, 1 Nov 2022 20:59:20 +0000

On this episode, Brian Bourke, Global Chief Commercial Officer at SEKO Logistics, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

About Brian

Starting January 2020 I start an exciting new role at SEKO with the new post of Chief Growth Officer. Responsible for the acceleration of SEKO’s organic growth, I'm responsible for SEKO’s demand generation, revenue management and corporate marketing and communications initiatives. I couldn’t be taking this role at a more exciting time in SEKO’s history as Chief Growth Officer. We have our strongest ever value proposition with the growth of our omni-channel, white glove and value-added freight forwarding services as well as a unique suite of configurable technology. Combined with the knowledge and expertise of our people, we can deliver solutions that open new business horizons and new markets for customers. Our growth will come from accelerating our customers’ growth. I began my career with SEKO in 2005 after receiving his BA in Economics from the University of Wisconsin. I later joined Geodis Wilson as Head of Marketing Communications, before returning to SEKO in 2012 as Vice President of Marketing. Speaking six languages and having in depth industry knowledge

About Michael

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Michelle Frank, GM, Global Ecommerce & DTX, Logitech, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Michelle Frank) — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 07:23:24 +0000

On this episode, Michelle Frank, GM, Global Ecommerce & DTX, Logitech

About Michelle

Michelle is the GM of Global Ecommerce at Logitech. She is a 15+ year veteran in the global e-commerce industry across fashion and consumer electronics space. Michelle has lead many brands in their digital transformation journey as well as helping build scalable ecommerce business models and operations globally.

About Michael

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Sophie Abrahamsson, President of Americas at Bambuser, live from GELF 2022 in NYC

michael@meleblanc.co (Sophie Abrahamsson) — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 07:05:00 +0000

On this episode, Sophie Abrahamsson President of Americas at Bambuser

About Sophie

Education: Bachelors Degree in Media & Communications from Università degli Studi di Firenze.

About Michael

Until then, safe travels!

About:

How Beauty Brands Can Drive International DTC Expansion: GELF 2022 Preview

michael@meleblanc.co (Kevin Runolfson, Matthew Merrilees) — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 09:23:52 +0000

The 2022 Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum brings together the top thought leaders and players in the global cross-border industry and in this episode meet Beauty Industry Group’s Director of Value Creation, Kevin Runolfson, and Global-e’s CEO, North America, Matthew Merrilees. Together they discuss how multi-portfolio businesses can capitalize on the cross-border eCommerce opportunity as a group while still supporting each of their brands’ unique identities, empowering them to expand their global footprint.

Photo by Luca Bravo on Unsplash

If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on LinkedIn, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Safe travels everyone - see you in NYC September 29th, 2022!!

About Kevin

Experienced Continuous Improvement leader successful in implementing and sustaining lean management systems that deliver value, decrease waste, and improve outcomes. Seasoned operations expert focused on strategic planning and organizational alignment, while delivering financial results. Relationship management expert comfortable with and capable of working with government leaders, community leaders, boards members, senior executives, and staff. Master of creating organizational culture that fosters commitment by engaging all employees in problem solving and continuous improvement. Straight-forward communicator willing to engage in crucial conversation in a respectful and productive manner.

About Matthew

About Us

Kent Allen

About Michael

About:

Get Ready for Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum 2022 Sept 29 in NYC!

michael@meleblanc.co (Michael LeBlanc) — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 08:18:46 +0000

Recorded live in New York, GELF Co-Founder Kent Allen sets the stage and gets us ready for the NYC GELF event happening September 29th back in New York

The 2022 Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum brings together the top thought leaders and players in the global cross-border industry and in this episode Kent outline the key issues on the minds of top executives that will make up the agenda for this years event.

Safe travels everyone

Photo by ian dooley on Unsplash

About Us

Kent Allen

About Michael

About:

Live from Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in L.A. Meet Hamaad Akmal, International Operations, GOAT Group

michael@meleblanc.co (Hamaad Akmal) — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 11:42:58 +0000

Greetings and welcome to a special episode of the podcast recorded live in the on-site podcasting studio at the L.A. Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum April 2022. For these episodes we are joined by GELF friend & supporter Rick Watson who takes his turn on the mic as our podcast host for this LA podcast series.

In this episode, Rick talks to Hamaad Akmal, International Operations, GOAT Group

If you liked this podcast, you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favorite podcast platform, please rate and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/, and be sure and visit out our all new YouTube site where you will plenty of fantastic cross-border content from several of our events. Speaking of which, our next event will be in New York City on September 29th - mark it in your calendars now! Execs from retail brands can register for a complimentary VIP Pass at bit.ly/GELFNYC22

Until then, safe travels!

Visit out YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8LNeP-QGoJk0TJXI80lag use this instead? bit.ly/GELFYOUTUBECHANNEL

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Live from Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in L.A. : Kathy Ando, VP of DTC & Marketing, and Karaline Goldmark, Head of DTC, Tile

michael@meleblanc.co (Rick Watson, Kathy Ando, Karaline Goldmark) — Thu, 26 May 2022 06:47:00 +0000

In this episode, Rick talks to Kathy Ando (back for a second time on the podcast!) and Karaline Goldmark, both from Tile.

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/, and be sure and visit out our all new YouTube site where you will plenty of fantastic cross-border content from several of our events. Speaking of which, our next event will be in New York City on September 29th - mark it in your calendars now! Execs from retail brands can register for a complimentary VIP Pass at bit.ly/GELFNYC22

Until then, safe travels!

Visit out YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8LNeP-QGoJk0TJXI80lag use this instead? bit.ly/GELFYOUTUBECHANNEL

About:

Live from Global eCommerce Leaders Forum in L.A. : Kevin Cushing, Parxl

michael@meleblanc.co (Kevin Cushing, Rick Watson) — Fri, 13 May 2022 18:22:50 +0000

In this episode, Rick talks to Kevin Cushing, Business Development Manager, E-Commerce at Singapore Airlines. Kevin is spearheading the introduction of Parxl, a new cross-border package shipping solution powered by Singapore Airlines, to US e-commerce shippers.

You can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/, and be sure and visit out our all new YouTube site where you will plenty of fantastic cross-border content from several of our events. Speaking of which, our next event will be in New York City on September 29th - mark it in your calendars now! Execs from retail brands can register for a complimentary VIP Pass at bit.ly/GELFNYC22

Until then, safe travels!

Visit out YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8LNeP-QGoJk0TJXI80lag use this instead? bit.ly/GELFYOUTUBECHANNEL

About:

Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum L.A. 2022 Recap with Co-Founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Jim Okamura) — Tue, 3 May 2022 01:56:00 +0000

In this special episode GELF Co-Founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura take us through a recap of the GELF event held recently in 2022.

Safe travels everyone

Photo by Jonathan Gonzalez on Unsplash

About Us

Kent Allen

Jim Okamura

About Michael

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GELF LA 2022 Preview: June Van Heel at Bala, Isabel Gan, Rose Planet International Brand Management and Nicole Granucci, Citcon.

michael@meleblanc.co (June Van Heel, Isabel Gan, Nicole Granucci) — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 02:10:42 +0000

Welcome back to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, episode 23!

I’m your host Michael LeBlanc and in today’s episode, a preview to the great thought leadership live in person on the stage at the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum happening April 21st in L.A., I get a sneak preview chatting with June Van Heel, Head of International at Bala, Isabel Gan, Founder/CEO of Rose Planet International Brand Management Inc and Nicole Granucci, Vice President of Product Marketing of Citcon.

Together with GELF co-founder Kent Allen they will be exploring where the best opportunities lie in APAC for ecommerce growth in 2022 – and how global DTC leaders can succeed in China, Japan and South Korea. For this episode, you’ll learn a bit about each of them, hear two starts and one stop advice for brands and retailers, and hint of what they will be talking about on the stage April 21 in L.A.

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum (GELF) co-founder Kent Allen joins June Van Heel, Head of International at Bala, Isabel Gan, Founder/CEO of Rose Planet International Brand Management Inc and Nicole Granucci, Vice President of Product Marketing of Citcon to explore where the best opportunities lie in APAC for ecommerce growth in 2022 – and how global DTC leaders can succeed in China, Japan and South Korea.

GELF’s APAC Regional Showcase kicks off the morning breakout sessions at GELF LA ’22 on Thursday April 21st. Join us at the upcoming GELF LA event in West Hollywood at the venerable Director’s Guild of America, 7920 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90046. Learn how today’s shopping journeys differ among APAC shoppers – and how global ecommerce leaders are succeeding in China, Japan, South Korea and beyond. Retailers and DTC brands can register at globalecommerceleadersforum.com

Our guests each talk about their extensive retail ecommerce backgrounds, their experience building DTC brands in Asia and developing new distribution channels in China as well as the shifting APAC ecommerce marketspace. We wrap up with insights for listeners summarized into two-starts and one-stop. June, Isabel and Nicole will also provide an overview of what they will be discussing at GELF LA ‘22; starting with a post-pandemic overview of the state of the ecommerce in APAC.

We look forward to getting the GELF community back together live and in-person after the long layoff since GELF LA 20 in Feb 2020’ GELF’s biggest and best West Coast gathering ever! GELF LA 2022 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for a full day of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the “echo-boom” in global DTC and cross-border ecommerce translates into new revenue opportunities as the growth of retail ecommerce accelerates.

If you liked this podcast you can follow us on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum and continue to keep up with the latest on cross-border commerce online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Michael LeBlanc is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada’s top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois. You can learn more about Michael here or on LinkedIn.

About:

The Echo-Boom of Global eCommerce: Kent Allen and Jim Okamura, Co-Founders of the Global eCommerce Leaders Forum Getting Ready for GELF LA 2022

michael@meleblanc.co (Jim Okamura, Kent Allen) — Wed, 6 Apr 2022 04:05:00 +0000

Welcome to Global eCommerce Tech Talks, I'm your host Michael LeBlanc.

Live from my podcasting studio high above the Vegas sands during Shoptalk 2022, I sit down and talk about the latest news and developments in the global eCommerce industry with two of the sharpest minds in the space.

Kent Allen and Jim Okamura, consultants, advisors, industry analysts and co-founders of the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum, are back as my special guests in-person together for an exclusive interview in my Las Vegas podcast studio.

We catch up and talk about the latest developments in global commerce, including the moves China is making internationally, the echo-boom of worldwide eCommerce and the upcoming GELF LA event on April 21, which is open to all retailers to apply to attend.

Kent Allen

Jim Okamura

About Michael

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Scaling Digital-Driven Distribution Globally with Tile & Scalefast

michael@meleblanc.co (Xavier Heriat, Kathy Ando) — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 07:19:25 +0000

The pandemic-driven shift to ecommerce jolted many international markets where brick-and-mortar stores previously generated most retail sales. This was especially true in LATAM markets where in recent years legacy distributors may have resisted brands’ ecommerce-direct objectives. Kathy Ando, VP of DTC and Marketing, Tile and Xavier Heriat, VP Client Success, Scalefast join me to chat about their backgrounds, answer our "two starts and one stop" question and they speak briefly to their upcoming panel where they weighs] in on the international ecommerce growth opportunities ahead – and the operational challenges they face as digital wholesale disruption transforms the traditional ways that branded manufacturers go-to-market globally.

Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online. Retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer can register/apply for complimentary passes at https://commercenext.com/gelf/

Kent Allen

Michael LeBlanc is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada’s top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois. You can learn more about Michael here or on LinkedIn.

Until next time, have a safe week!

About:

A Data-based Model to Drive International DTC Growth Strategies and Profitability

michael@meleblanc.co (Matthew Merrilees, Jonathan Greller) — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 05:33:55 +0000

We welcome the GELF community back to the Global Stage as the GELF NYC ’21/CommerceNext In Real Life conference heads into Day 2. Our morning keynote tackles how multi-portfolio brands are investing in global DTC strategies in maturing and fast-growing international markets.

Marquee Brands has successfully extended its ‘digital first’ approach to global markets, launching advanced localized webstores across three of the group’s key brands: BCBG, Motherhood and A Pea in the Pod. Marquee Brands’ President – Digital Ventures, Jonathan Greller and Global-e’s CEO North America, Matthew Merrilees, will discuss how customized strategies based on advanced big-data analysis and dynamic local-market pricing capabilities have allowed the brands to capitalize on increasing global demand to grow international online sales, while maintaining profit margins in line with their domestic performance.

Jonathan and Matthew join Michael and Kent to tell us about themselves, answer our Two Starts, One Stop question, and give us a preview of what they will be sharing on the stage in NYC.

Kent Allen

Michael LeBlanc is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada’s top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois. You can learn more about Michael here or on LinkedIn.

Until next time, have a safe week!

About:

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum New York IRL Speaker Feature: Valerie de Charette, American Eagle Outfitters & Patrick Bousquet-Chavanne, eShop World

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 03:21:43 +0000

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen joins Valerie de Charette, Head of International, American Eagle Outfitters and Patrick Bousquet-Chavanne, President & Chief Executive Officer, eShopWorld (ESW) Americas to discuss the complexities of expanding globally through direct-to-consumer channels. Valerie and Patrick’s fireside chat will wrap up the morning keynotes at the GELF NYC ’21 Global Stage during our Day 1 program on Tuesday, September 28th. Join us at the upcoming GELF event in New York, September 28th and 29th 2021 where we will be co-located with the CommerceNext In real Life conference at the Sheraton New York Times Square hotel!

Our guests each talk about their extensive retail ecommerce background, their respective businesses, state of cross-border eCommerce, two starts and one stop advice. They will also provide a brief overview of what they will be talking about at the GELF NYC ’21 event; namely global expansion challenges ranging from localization and logistics to data management, legal compliance, and proving ROI internally.

We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever! GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online.

On September 28th and 29th, the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) community returns to New York City live and in person. This year we’re bigger and better than ever as we join our friends from the CommerceNext team at the New York Hilton!

GELF NYC 2021will co-locate its annual gathering in New York City with CommerceNext In Real Life (IRL) 2021. Join the GELF community for keynotes, breakout sessions, executive roundtable meetups and networking as our global ecommerce programming grows to two full days this September.

We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever!

GELF NYC 2021 will bring together leaders from retailers and brands selling direct-to-consumer. Top global consumer brands will join digital natives from the fashion and apparel world, health and beauty, consumer electronics and other leading retail verticals for two days of education, sharing and networking. Digital commerce innovators, cross-border ecommerce experts and global ecommerce thought leaders will debate how the boom in ecommerce translates into international expansion as the retail world comes back online.

Kent Allen

Michael LeBlanc is the Founder & President of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc and a Senior Advisor to Retail Council of Canada as part of his advisory and consulting practice. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience, and has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael is the producer and host of a network of leading podcasts including Canada’s top retail industry podcast, The Voice of Retail, plus Global E-Commerce Tech Talks and The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois. You can learn more about Michael here or on LinkedIn.

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum New York IRL Speaker Feature: Kai Li, VP of International at REVOLVE, Agustin Farias, International GM at Everlane and Matthew Steinbrecher, Vice President, Platforms & Partnerships at Reach

michael@meleblanc.co (Matthew Steinbrecher, Agustin Farias, Kent Allen, Kai Li) — Mon, 9 Aug 2021 07:23:25 +0000

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen join Kai Li, VP of International at REVOLVE, Agustin Farias, International GM at Everlane and Matthew Steinbrecher, Vice President, Platforms & Partnerships at Reach to catch up on all thing cross-border and talk about their exciting session at of the upcoming GELF event in New York, September 28th and 29th 2021!

Our guests each talk about their respective businesses, state of cross-border eCommerce, two starts and one stop advice and finally give a brief overview of what they will be talking about at the NYC IRL GELF 2021 event.

There’s light on the horizon! On September 28th and 29th, the Global Ecommerce Leaders Forum (GELF) community returns to New York City live and in person. This year we’re bigger and better than ever as we join our friends from the CommerceNext team at the New York Hilton!

We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever!

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founders Kent Allen and Scott Silverman talk about the exciting news of the upcoming GELF event in New York

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Scott Silverman) — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 18:29:13 +0000

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founders Kent Allen and Scott Silverman join me to catch up on all thing cross-border and talk about the exciting news of the upcoming GELF event in New York, September 28th and 29th 2021!

GELF NYC 2021 will co-locate its annual gathering in New York City with CommerceNext’sIn Real Life (IRL) 2021. Join the GELF community for keynotes, breakout sessions, executive roundtable meetups and networking as our global ecommerce programming grows to two full days this September.

We look forward to getting the GELF community back together in real life after the long layoff since GELF LA 2020, which was our biggest and best West Coast gathering ever!

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum Accelerate

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 02:09:59 +0000

In this episode Kent Allen, Principal of The Research Trust and Co-Founder at Global eCommerce Leaders Forum puts on a master-class in understanding the issues, mechanics, eco-system and complexities that is the reality of cross-border global eCommerce.

Mark you calendars and JOIN us for GELF ACCELERATE: A GLOBAL GROWTH SUMMIT Thursday, March 25th – from 1PM to 5PM ET as the GELF community dives into a series of engaging keynotes, actionable panel discussions and fast-paced workshops and breakouts.

If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review with a five star rating and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Unpacking Brexit for eCommerce cross-border

michael@meleblanc.co (Aaron Bezzant, Alex Yancher, Kent Allen) — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 05:15:29 +0000

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen welcomes Aaron Bezzant from Zonos. And Alex Yancher back to the podcast to catch up on the state of cross-border eCommerce in the Brexit era and with the newly revised trade agreement between Canada and the U.S.

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Thanks to Alex and Aaron for their insights on the implications of Brexit, USMCA, CUSMA and governments increasing search for tax revenues, and the year of the partner!

Aaron Bezzant is the Head of Global Trade at Zonos. Zonos stops costly surprises for you and your international customers with the most accurate landed cost in the business.

Learn more at https://zonos.com/

aaron@zonos.com

Alex Yancher is the co-founder and CEO of Passport the international shipping carrier of choice for modern DTC brands. https://passportshipping.com/

alex@passportshipping.com

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Global E-Commerce Predictions 2021

michael@meleblanc.co (Scott Silverman, Kent Allen, Jim Okamura) — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 03:14:15 +0000

Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum founders Kent Allen, Jim Okamura and Scott Silverman gather for one last time in 2020 to dish on their predictions for the cross-border E-Commerce Industry for the year ahead!

Leveraging collectively decades of experience and access to the world’s top community of thought leaders in the space, the team from GELF reveal what they are hearing from leading retailers, brands, service providers and leading industry thought leaders on cross border for 2021 in this first of a two-part series to wrap 2020.

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Thanks to Kent, Scott and Jim for their insights into what lies ahead for 2021, stated tuned for part two where we explore the implications of Brexit, governments increasing search for tax revenues, and the year of the partner!

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum Oktoberfest 2020 Thought Leadership Series ReCap

michael@meleblanc.co (Scot Silverman, Jim Okamura, Kent Allen) — Tue, 3 Nov 2020 03:12:42 +0000

Global E-Commerce Leaders forum co-founders Kent Allen, Jim Okamura and Scott Silverman get together and share their observations, insights and action items coming out of the 2020 Oktoberfest online thought leadership event held over three days in October.

*****

Thanks to Kent, Scott and Jim for their comprehensive top line summary of the three action packed days from the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum Oktoberfest

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Global Growth Showcase: Canada

michael@meleblanc.co (Alex Yancher, Jamie Briggs, Jim Okamura, Shelly Wilson) — Wed, 7 Oct 2020 05:07:06 +0000

Curious about how much consumers in Canada are planning to spend this holiday – and on what products? Wondering what fulfillment and shipping strategies will pay off during peak season?

Join our panelists to learn more about how the Canadian shopping journey is evolving as we head into the Next New Normal.

We’ll also learn more about the “New NAFTA” and how the USMCA/CUSMA trade pact will reduce friction and create new cross-border opportunities for retail brands selling into Canada.

Speakers:

Shelly Wilson, VP Ecommerce and Digital Marketing, SAXX
Jamie Briggs, Director, eCommerce Emerging Markets, Canada Post
Michael LeBlanc, Founder of The Voice of Retail Podcast (moderator)
Alex Yancher, CEO, Passport Shipping

Oktoberfest continues on October 8th and 15th with more outstanding cross-border content, Register for free here

If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Jerry McGlynn, CIO, Specialized (formerly) and Adam Coyle, CEO, Digital River in a sneak-peak panel preview episode of their closing Keynote Fireside at the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum Oktoberfest October 1, 2020

michael@meleblanc.co (Jerry Mclynn, Kent Allen, Adam Coyle) — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 23:05:35 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode we meet Jerry McGlynn, CIO, Specialized (formerly) and Adam Coyle, CEO, Digital River who In this sneak-peak panel preview episode of their closing Keynote Fireside: “Digital Takes Center Stage: How to Scale Global Gracefully in the Age of COVID” give a sense of the fantastic discussion to happen October 1, 2020 at Oktoberfest with their “two starts and one stop” advice for retailers and brands on their digital and global eCommerce journey.

Let’s now hear from GELF co-founder Kent Allen who will set the stage for us:

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That’s a wrap on this Oktoberfest podcast preview edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, thanks again to Jerry and Adam for being our guests! If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Tracy Hermans Director of eCommerce from L-Space by Monica Wise and Casey Gee Sr. International Manscaped give us a preview of their upcoming Oktoberfest Executive Leaders Panel

michael@meleblanc.co (Casey Gee, Tracy Hermans, Kent Allen) — Wed, 23 Sep 2020 20:10:34 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode we meet Tracy Hermans, Director of Ecommerce, L-Space by Monica Wise and Casey Gee, Sr. International Business Manager, MANSCAPED

Both from the Oktoberfest Executive Leaders Keynote Panel: How Bold Guesses and “Happy Accidents” Help Digital and Wholesale Teams Work as One Team”. (Register here:http://bit.ly/gelfokto)

In this sneak-peak panel preview episode you’ll learn about Tracy and Casey’s background, their “two-start, one stop” advice for brands and retailers who are now engaged in or considering cross-border commerce, and get a sense of the fantastic discussion to happen October 1, 2020 at Oktoberfest!

Let’s now hear from GELF co-founder Kent Allen who will set the stage for us:

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That’s a wrap on this Oktoberfest podcast preview edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, thanks again to Tracy and Casey for being our guests! If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify, and now on Amazon music podcast channel or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Top global eCommerce trends, GELF OktoberFest speaker insights and a quick dive into the Canadian market

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Jim Okamura) — Tue, 8 Sep 2020 22:16:53 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode I connect with my partners Kent Allen and Jim Okamura for a wide ranging discussion on the global eCommerce trends they are hearing first hand from the thought leaders that are speaking at the all new GELF OktoberFest which will deliver a mix of strategic insights and tactical cross-border To Dos about global retail expansion practices and how to prioritize the key operational aspects of your global commerce plan and how to organize your team to execute them successfully.

Next, we introduce some of the great speakers who will be featured in OktoberFest, and then take a deeper dive into the Canadian export market, one of the keynote topics during OctoberFest. Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScv1UOKzz1qci_g7bNGNqXo6tq35nY01xHHt2vMLchavk51Gw/viewform

Let’s listen in...

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That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks! If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum or OctoberFest online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Jeff Lord, VP of Global Direct and Digital Commerce at Burton Snowboards talks global retail trends, operating in a pandemic and the power of lessons learned

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Jeff Lord) — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 13:27:41 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode my co-host Kent Allen and I connect with Jeff Lord, Vice President of Global Direct and Digital Commerce at Burton Snowboards. Both an eCommerce and cross-border veteran, comfortable operating from Burton’s hometown in Vermont or on the mountain in Japan or in one of the brand’s flagship stores in Toronto, Jeff shares insights on omni-channel and cross border optimization, China as the tip of the spear in consumer eCommerce, retailing in an uncertain COVID-19 era, and the power of lesson learned that will take this 40+ year old business to all new heights.

Let’s listen in now to Jeff from Burton

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That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, special thanks to Jeff for being our guest on this episode, if you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Kim Walls, CEO & co-founder of Furtuna Skin puts on a master class in beauty brands and global e-commerce, and Kent Allen updates us on GELF and the communities top priorities

michael@meleblanc.co (Kim Walls, Kent Allen) — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 00:50:30 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode we connect with Kim Walls, CEO and co-founder of Furtuna Skin, former Global GM of Lime Crime Cosmetics, Entrepreneur, Clean Beauty Pioneer, Advocate and a wealth of knowledge, experience and perspectives on global eCommerce. Kim puts on a master class in understanding the brand ladders behind beauty brands, and how to take those brands global.

Next Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder and my co-host on the podcast Kent Allen updates us on the next big GELF events, now virtual and in October, and share insights on both new research and the questions and insights he is hearing from the GELF community around growth opportunities and challenges in global markets like Canada.

Let’s listen in now to Kim

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That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, special thanks to Kim for being our guest on this episode, if you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Understanding LATAM eCommerce with Jose Farinas, Latin America President Wahl Clipper from Brazil and Mariano Migues, Mercado Libre based in Argentina.

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 17:13:03 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode we pivot to Latin America to understand the vast opportunities that Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Chile and other nations afford for global brands looking to expand their market presence in this huge but complex online retail ecosystem. Along with GELF co-founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura, we talk with Jose Fernando Farinas, Latin America President & Global Manager | Wahl Clipper Corporation based in São Paulo, Brazil and Mariano Migues, Cross Border Trade Supervisor at Mercado Libre based in Buenos Aires Argentina.

Together we discuss both the opportunities and nuances of the markets they operate in across Latin America, how the COVID-19 crisis has impacted their business and consumers, and get a sense of the changing nature of shoppers and online retail during the COVID era and beyond

Let’s listen in

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That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, special thanks to Jose and Mariano for being our guests on this episode, if you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes, Spotify or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Travis Heard, Head of Finance/Operations at brand/retailer Outerknown & Rob Keve CEO & Co-Founder of Flow discuss global opportunities in the COVID-19 era and beyond

michael@meleblanc.co (Jim Okamura, Rob Keve, Travis Heard, Kent Allen) — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 07:35:10 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode highlights from the recent GELF community webinar, The Path Ahead: Crafting a Cross-Border Strategy in Response to Today's Environment. Featuring introductions by my partners on the podcast Jim Okamura and Kent Allen, and then a great discussion featuring Travis Heard, Head of Finance, Operations & Strategy at brand /international DTC retailer Outerknown better known as the apparel brand from Kelly Slater, widely regarded as the greatest professional surfer of all time. Travis puts on a master class in brand international retailing strategy, channel management, and share key factors beyond the success of their global platform.

Joining Travis is Rob Keve CEO & co-founder at Flow, the world’s most advanced solution for cross-border ecommerce. Flow’s revolutionary, platform provides infinite flexibility for merchants to design their own 'custom' international solution

Let’s listen in...

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That’s a wrap on this edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks. If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Nathan Isaacson, GM Digital at New Balance talks digital commerce leadership, the platform world and cracking the code with Amazon

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Nathan Isaacson, Jim Okamura) — Mon, 1 Jun 2020 06:17:40 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

The global pandemic has super-charged the growth of E-commerce in markets around the world – and accelerated digital commerce trends for retail brands selling direct-to-consumer (DTC).

As different countries respond to the global pandemic with different timelines, retail stores will reclaim a small share of sales that has shifted online. But the shift to digital has legs; a Kantar/Detail Online study found that six out of ten consumers say that they will continue to buy as much online as they are now buying after the pandemic has passed.

Global E-Commerce leaders are leveraging lessons learned internationally to fuel this domestic growth of retail sales in both established and emerging digital channels. In this episode, we talk with Nathan Isaacson, GM Digital at New Balance and talk about his digital commerce leadership in today’s dynamic market environment, the platform world, how New Balance cracked the code with Amazon, and forming & fostering a culture of leadership and innovation.

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I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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A special edition featuring GELF Co-Founder Kent Allen on the latest COVID-19 retail era research on Cross Border E-Commerce and the path ahead

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Michael LeBlanc) — Mon, 11 May 2020 22:17:51 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this special episode Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum co-founder Kent Allen takes over the mic to provide us with a comprehensive look and interpretation at top drawer global COVID-19 era retail and consumer research coming out of McKinsey Consulting, and super interesting and exclusive insights from within and around the GELF community itself with front-line observations from the practitioners of global E-Commerce from Australia to China to Hong Kong and the U.S.

So lets hand the mic now over to GELF co-founder Kent Allen

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Thanks Kent, so that’s a wrap on this special solo edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks. If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura talk the art of brand building and science of digital cross border E-Commerce into China

michael@meleblanc.co (Jim Okamura, Kent Allen) — Mon, 4 May 2020 04:05:21 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this episode, part two of my interview with Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum founders Kent Allen and Jim Okamura We talk about the brand building challenges and opportunities going into China, the reality of the multiple platform future that can accelerate brand awareness and adoption, and a broadening of tastes that is framing new purchasing decisions for new brands.

Next Jim and Kent look at the trends that existed prior to the COVID-19 crisis and that have been accelerated with recent events, confirm that the art of brand building is as important as the science of digital commerce, and lastly we talk about the truism that the smart money follows the consumer - and the China consumers like to shop cross-border.

So lets jump right in now to my conversation with Kent and Jim:

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I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Partners Kent Allen and Jim Okamura lay out a master-class on winning in the "Headwaters of Retail Commerce Innovation": China

michael@meleblanc.co (Kent Allen, Jim Okamura) — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 04:05:01 +0000

Welcome to Global E-Commerce Tech Talks, I’m your host Michael LeBlanc, and this podcast is brought to you in conjunction with the Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum.

In this our very first episode, part one of a two part interview with my partners Kent Allen from San Francisco and Jim Okamura from Chicago we discuss both the quantitative and qualitative research on going cross border into the “headwaters of retail commerce innovation, China. With this proprietary research, including exclusive round-table discussions that happened both in New York and at the recent Leaders Forum in L.A., we look at established and emerging platforms, the impact of trade tussles and COVID-19 crisis, plus supply chain and key brand strategies to consider as you craft you plan for long-term commercial success.

So lets jump right in now to my conversation with Kent and Jim:

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That’s a wrap on our first edition of Global E-Commerce Tech Talks. If you liked this podcast you can subscribe on Apple iTunes or your favourite podcast platform, please rate and review, and be sure and recommend to a friend or colleague in the retail and cross-borders commerce industry.

I’m Michael LeBlanc, Founder and President of M.E. LeBlanc and Company Inc. and you can learn more about me on www.meleblanc.co, and you can learn more about the Global E-Commerce Leaders Form online at https://www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com/

Until next time, have a safe week!

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Get Ready for the Global E-Commerce Tech Talks Podcast!

michael@meleblanc.co (Michael LeBlanc) — Mon, 6 Apr 2020 13:15:43 +0000

Created by the team that brings you the breakthrough series of events know as Global eCommerce Leaders Forums or GELF, get ready for the Global eCommerce Tech Talks (GETT) podcast! Together thought leaders Kent Allen, Jim Okamura and Scott Silverman along with host, retail and eCommerce veteran Michael LeBlanc bring you insightful & action oriented episodes laser focussed on 100% cross-border, global eCommerce.

Together we’ll be debuting and discussing custom, proprietary research and thought leadership designed specifically for global eCommerce retailers and eCommerce industry leaders to help sharpen their saw blades when it comes to doing business across borders. Episodes will debut every week or two, and will also feature interviews with global eCommerce retailers, platform providers, service providers - all parts of the global ecosystem as we help unpack the key strategies, tactics and tricks of the trade to make your venture successful from where you are now to where you want to be.

So be sure and subscribe today to the upcoming season of the Global eCommerce Tech Talks podcast, debuting on www.globalecommerceleadersforum.com, Apple or Spotify podcast platforms, or wherever you enjoy your podcast today!

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