Ex-VaynerMedia and BarkBox Exec Explains How to Scale from $1M to $10M+ → Sam Piliero 2X eCommerce Podcast

In this episode of the 2X eCommerce Podcast, I sit down with Sam Piliero, the founder and CEO of The Moonlighters, a demand gen and capture media buying agency. Sam’s journey from selling lemonade as a kid to working with major players like VaynerMedia and BarkBox is truly inspiring. He shares how these experiences paved the way for creating The Moonlighters, where he focuses on delivering comprehensive growth strategies for brands looking to scale.
We dive deep into the intricacies of media buying, exploring the critical differences between demand generation and demand capture. Sam offers practical advice on how to structure your agency for maximum efficiency, highlighting the importance of having growth directors skilled in both Facebook and Google ads.
Sam also sheds light on the evolving landscape of YouTube and Meta ads, sharing tips on crafting high-quality campaigns that resonate with audiences. He emphasizes the need to focus on total contribution margin rather than just ROI, advocating for a more holistic approach to measuring business success.
We also discuss the power of authentic user-generated content (UGC). Sam explains why genuine customer reviews and testimonials are more effective than ever in today’s market. This episode is packed with actionable insights for any brand looking to enhance their marketing strategies and achieve significant growth.
Join us for this insightful conversation filled with expert tips and strategies to help you elevate your brand’s marketing efforts. Whether you’re aiming to optimize your media buying strategy or leverage authentic content, this episode has something valuable for you. Tune in to learn how to drive growth and boost your brand’s success.
Best,Kunlé
Chapters:
(00:00) - Introduction to Scaling Your Brand
(01:23) - The 2x eCommerce Podcast Begins
(03:03) - Sam Piliero's Journey: From Lemonade Stand to Media Buying Expert
(08:56) - The Birth of The Moonlighters Agency
(09:58) - Strategies for Scaling from 1 Million to 10 Million in Revenue
(11:54) - Inside The Moonlighters: Agency Structure and Strategy
(15:30) - Demand Generation vs. Demand Capture: Maximizing ROI
(24:27) - Navigating Data Accuracy in a Post-iOS Update World
(26:33) - Decoding Digital Advertising: Insights and Strategies
(27:16) - Navigating Attribution Settings and Conversion Insights
(27:55) - The Trustworthiness of Google Data and Attribution Windows
(29:32) - The Reality of Advertising Metrics: A Case Study
(31:41) - The Importance of Accurate Data and Comprehensive Account Health Checks
(32:44) - Maximizing Business Growth Through Financial Modeling
(37:40) - Exploring the Potential of YouTube Advertising
(40:52) - Optimizing Facebook Advertising: Technical Tweaks and Creative Strategies
(45:03) - The Power of Authenticity in User-Generated Content
(47:36) - Planning for a Deeper Dive: The Promise of Part Two
Guest Links:Website: Sam's Agency: The Moonlighters WebsiteLinkedIn: Sam’s LinkedIn ProfileTwitter: Sam’s Twitter HandleInstagram: Sam’s Instagram HandleOther Links: none mentionedConnect with 2X eCommerce:
Website: 2X eCommerce WebsiteInstagram: 2X eCommerce InstagramTwitter: 2X eCommerce TwitterYouTube: 2X eCommerce YouTubeSubscribe to Our Newsletter:
Stay updated with the latest insights and tips by subscribing to our newsletter here.
Get a Copy of Kunle’s Book
Elevate your e-commerce game with Kunle Campbell's book, "E-Commerce Growth Strategy: A Brand-Driven Approach to Attract Shoppers, Build Community and Retain Customers." Discover practical strategies and insights to boost your e-commerce growth.
Amazon: Buy on AmazonWalmart: Buy on WalmartKogan Page: Buy on Kogan PageBarnes & Noble: Buy on Barnes & NobleWHSmith: Buy on WHSmithCreators & Guests

Kunle Campbell - Host
Sam Piliero - Guest