Ecommerce Finance Podcast

Stephen Brown | LedgerGurus
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Ecommerce Finance Podcast

Hosted by Stephen Brown, COO of LedgerGurus and co-owner of DTC brand Sole Toscana, this podcast is your go-to resource for mastering the financial side of ecommerce. Stephen and his team have worked with hundreds of brands through LedgerGurus which specializes in ecommerce accounting. Add to that his hands-on experience with Sole Toscana, gives him unique insights into the challenges and opportunities ecommerce businesses face. On The eCommerce Finance Podcast, we dive deep into the financial side of ecommerce. Any topic is open for discussion as everything you do in business has a financial impact. Be prepared to go deep with experts and brand leaders on a variety of topics with an understanding of their financial impacts. Join us as we bring you practical tips, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you thrive with ecommerce. Tune in and transform your ecommerce business today!

Episodes

  1. E10: How to Choose the Right IMS for Your Ecommerce Business

    MAR 5

    E10: How to Choose the Right IMS for Your Ecommerce Business

    In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Scott Scharf discuss the critical aspects of selecting and implementing an inventory management system for ecommerce businesses. They explore the importance of inventory management as a key asset, the methodology for selecting the right system, and the expectations for implementation timelines. The conversation also covers when to consider an inventory management system, the differences between ERPs and inventory management systems, and the necessity of documenting processes for successful implementation. Takeaways Inventory is often the biggest asset in consumer product businesses. Many entrepreneurs struggle with inventory management due to reliance on spreadsheets. Selecting an inventory management system requires a clear understanding of business needs. Demos should focus on specific processes relevant to the business. Implementation of inventory systems often requires external expertise. Budgeting for implementation costs is crucial for success. Hiring an operations manager can significantly improve system adoption. Pain points in inventory management often indicate the need for a new system. Trusting but verifying your 3PL is essential for accurate inventory tracking. Documenting processes ensures consistency and efficiency in operations. Sound Bites "Trust but verify your 3PL." "Hire someone to help you with this." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Inventory Management Systems 03:16 Challenges in Inventory Management 06:25 The Importance of Comprehensive Processes 09:23 Selecting the Right Inventory Management System 12:37 Methodology for Choosing an Inventory System 18:27 Implementation Expectations and Budgeting 25:56 Implementation Timeline and Feedback Mechanisms 31:52 The Role of Operations Management in E-commerce 37:15 Inventory Management Systems vs. 3PLs 39:01 Evaluating ERP Systems for E-commerce 47:41 Documenting Processes for Successful Implementation Guest Info Scott Scharf Scott@scharftech.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscharfcc/ Work with Us Struggling to make sense of your ecommerce financials? Let LedgerGurus handle your accounting so you can focus on growth. Take control of your inventory accounting and unlock real profitability with our inventory consulting services.

    52 min
  2. E9: Why Inventory Accounting is So Hard (but SO IMPORTANT) for Ecommerce Brands

    FEB 26

    E9: Why Inventory Accounting is So Hard (but SO IMPORTANT) for Ecommerce Brands

    In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Brittany Brown delve into the complexities of inventory accounting and its critical role in financial management for ecommerce businesses. They discuss the challenges of accurately tracking inventory, the importance of accrual accounting, and the implications of Cost of Goods Sold on financial statements. The conversation highlights the necessity of operational maturity, understanding landed costs, and adhering to GAAP standards to ensure accurate financial reporting and profitability analysis. Brittany emphasizes that successful inventory management is not just about accounting but also about engaging in the operational processes that affect financial outcomes. Takeaways Inventory accounting is crucial for understanding financial health. Operational maturity is essential for accurate financial reporting. Accrual accounting provides a clearer picture of profitability. Cost of Goods Sold impacts both the balance sheet and profit and loss statements. Engagement in inventory management processes is key to success. Landed costs must be considered for accurate product valuation. GAAP standards ensure consistency in financial reporting. Understanding gross profit margins is vital for business sustainability. Accurate inventory accounting can prevent financial losses. Collaboration between accountants and business owners is necessary for success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Inventory Accounting Challenges 05:13 Understanding the Flow of Inventory Accounting 10:23 The Importance of Accurate Cost of Goods Sold 15:14 Navigating Financial Statements and Profitability 20:18 Engagement and Operational Maturity in Accounting 25:09 Conclusion: Mastering Inventory Accounting 25:55 Understanding Cost of Goods Sold 28:26 Landed Product Costs Explained 33:29 The Importance of Accurate Costing 34:11 Defining Cost of Goods Sold vs. Cost of Sales 38:57 The Impact of Accurate Financial Reporting 45:26 Inventory Management and Profitability Work with Us Struggling to make sense of your ecommerce financials? Let LedgerGurus handle your accounting so you can focus on growth—https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e9 Take control of your inventory accounting and unlock real profitability with our inventory consulting services—https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/inventory-consulting-for-ecommerce/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e9

    49 min
  3. E8: How to Calculate the Impact of Tariffs on Your Profitability

    FEB 19

    E8: How to Calculate the Impact of Tariffs on Your Profitability

    Summary In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Kelley Birrell discuss the financial implications of tariffs on businesses, particularly in the ecommerce sector. They explore how tariffs affect cost structures, profitability, and pricing strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding customs value and elasticity of demand. The conversation also covers potential strategies for managing increased costs, including supply chain adjustments and efficiency improvements, while providing insights into the current economic landscape for ecommerce businesses. Download the FREE Tariff Impact Calculator: https://ledgergurus.com/portfolio/tariff-impact-calculator/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e8 Takeaways Tariffs are impacting businesses in real-time, requiring immediate decisions.Understanding customs value is crucial for calculating tariff impacts.Higher cost of goods sold leads to greater profitability challenges.Elasticity of demand plays a significant role in pricing decisions.Businesses must consider whether to absorb costs or pass them on to consumers.American manufacturers may benefit from increased tariffs on imports.Supply chain adjustments can be complex and time-consuming.Efficiency improvements are essential for maintaining profitability.Businesses need to scrutinize their spending more than ever due to rising costs. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact on Business 09:48 Strategies for Managing Increased Costs 20:22 Analyzing Price Elasticity and Consumer Behavior 29:52 Exploring Alternatives and Future Considerations Work with Us https://ledgergurus.com/the-ecommerce-finance-podcast/real-impact-of-tariffs/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e8

    36 min
  4. E7: Tariffs 101

    FEB 12

    E7: Tariffs 101

    Summary In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Bryce Judy discuss the complexities of tariffs, particularly focusing on the de minimis rule and its implications for e-commerce businesses. They explore recent changes in tariff policies, the impact on dropshipping, and the importance of compliance and accurate classification in trade. The conversation also covers duty drawbacks, customs processes, and best practices for importers navigating the evolving landscape of international trade. Takeaways The de minimis rule allows low-value shipments to enter duty-free. Recent tariff changes significantly impact e-commerce sellers. Duty drawback allows importers to reclaim duties on exported goods. Accurate classification is crucial to avoid fines and delays. Customs value is determined by the retail value for formal entries. Tariff engineering can help reduce tariff costs legally. Working with customs experts can save money in the long run. Misclassification can lead to severe penalties for businesses. Ecommerce businesses must stay informed about tariff changes. Navigating customs processes requires careful documentation and strategy. Sound Bites "This is a massive change for low value shipments." "You can classify it yourself, but it's risky." "Proceed with caution is probably the best advice." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tariffs and Tarifflo 02:50 Recent Changes in Tariff Regulations 05:32 Understanding De Minimis Rule Changes 08:01 Impact of Tariffs on E-commerce 11:01 Duty Drawbacks Explained 14:08 Key Components of Trade Compliance 16:41 Classification Process and Customs Procedures 19:06 Understanding Tariff Calculations 20:42 Best Practices for Managing Tariffs 23:07 Navigating Customs Disputes 25:50 Strategies for Tariff Mitigation 28:19 Country of Origin and Compliance 31:11 Conclusion and Future Considerations Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e7

    33 min
  5. E6: The Cost of Selling on Amazon in 2025

    FEB 5

    E6: The Cost of Selling on Amazon in 2025

    In this episode of The Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Liz Adamson discuss the evolving landscape of Amazon fees and the challenges sellers face in 2025. They explore the rising costs of advertising, the complexities of Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), and the impact of Chinese sellers on the marketplace. Liz emphasizes the necessity of advertising for success on Amazon and the importance of building a strong brand to compete effectively. The conversation also touches on the implications of Amazon's fee structure and the strategies new sellers should adopt to thrive in this competitive environment. Sound Bites "If you're not advertising, you are losing sales." "Amazon is a pay-to-play environment now." "FBA is becoming harder and harder for sellers." Takeaways Amazon fees have increased significantly, now taking up to 60% of sales. Advertising costs are rising due to increased competition and new ad products. Sellers MUST invest in advertising to achieve visibility on Amazon. FBA reimbursement changes could impact sellers' margins. Sellers need to be aware of their fee structures to manage costs effectively. The influx of Chinese sellers is reshaping the competitive landscape on Amazon. Building a recognizable brand is crucial for long-term success. New sellers should prepare for significant upfront investment in marketing. Amazon's fee structure is under scrutiny due to antitrust concerns. Sellers must adapt to changes in FBA policies and shipping requirements. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Amazon Fees and Ecommerce Landscape 02:29 Rising Costs: Understanding Amazon Fees 05:10 Advertising Strategies for Success on Amazon 07:24 The Importance of Advertising for New Sellers 10:09 Navigating FBA Changes and Challenges 13:09 Inventory Reimbursement Changes and Implications 15:48 FBA Shipment Strategies and Seller Responsibilities 18:39 Current Trends and Future Outlook for Amazon Sellers 20:21 Amazon's Power and Seller Scrutiny 26:23 Understanding FBA and Seller Fulfilled Prime 26:27 Referral Fees and Competitive Landscape 28:17 Amazon Haul: A New Marketplace Strategy 32:05 Challenges for American Sellers 38:45 Succeeding on Amazon: Strategies for New Sellers Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e6

    41 min
  6. E5: Shopify Plus Sales Tax Changes & Deep Dive into Sales Tax Complexity

    JAN 29

    E5: Shopify Plus Sales Tax Changes & Deep Dive into Sales Tax Complexity

    In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Mac Wright from Avalara discuss the upcoming changes to sales tax for Shopify Plus users. They delve into the complexities of sales tax calculation, the importance of understanding nexus, and the registration process for compliance. Mac explains how Avalara's tax engine simplifies the sales tax process for ecommerce businesses, while also addressing the challenges posed by varying tax laws across states and countries. The conversation highlights the need for businesses to stay informed and compliant in an ever-evolving tax landscape. Sound Bites "Sales tax is a complex and annoying world." "Nexus is your relationship with the state." "You need to collect tax if you have nexus." Takeaways Avalara has been a leader in tax technology for over 20 years.The relationship between Shopify and Avalara is changing with new tax solutions.Businesses must migrate to new tax engines by April 30, 2025.Sales tax is complex and requires understanding of nexus and registration.Nexus determines a business's obligation to collect sales tax.Collecting sales tax before registering can lead to complications.Sales tax calculation involves where, who, and what.Different customers may have different tax obligations.VAT is a significant consideration for international sales.Staying compliant with sales tax is crucial to avoid penalties. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sales Tax Changes in Ecommerce 02:09 Avalara's Role and Shopify Plus Integration 06:38 Migration Options for Shopify Plus Users 10:19 Understanding Sales Tax Complexity 11:34 Nexus: The Foundation of Sales Tax Obligations 19:05 The Registration Process for Sales Tax 21:30 Calculating Sales Tax: The Key Factors 28:39 The Importance of Product Taxability 31:26 Navigating VAT and International Sales Tax 37:02 The Future of Sales Tax Compliance Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e5 Sales Tax Services https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/sales-tax/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e5

    43 min
  7. E4: TikTok Shop and Social Commerce Financial Insights

    JAN 22

    E4: TikTok Shop and Social Commerce Financial Insights

    In this episode of the eCommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Michelle Barnum-Smith delve into the world of TikTok Shop and its implications for social commerce. They discuss the unique aspects of TikTok as a shopping platform, the frictionless experience it offers, and the significant revenue opportunities it presents for brands. The conversation also covers the importance of identifying TikTok-able products, pricing strategies, and the evolving role of influencers in this new commerce landscape. With predictions for the future of TikTok and social commerce, this episode provides valuable insights for brands looking to navigate the changing ecommerce environment. Sound Bites "Impulse purchases thrive on TikTok." "The affiliate snowball effect is real." Takeaways TikTok Shop combines social media with ecommerce, creating a unique shopping experience.Users spend an average of 90 minutes a day on TikTok, making it a powerful platform for discovery.The frictionless shopping experience on TikTok is significantly faster than on other platforms.TikTok Shop has generated $80 billion in gross merchandise value since its launch.Products that are demonstrable and solve a problem perform well on TikTok.Pricing between $20 and $50 tends to convert better on TikTok.TikTok's fee structure is more favorable compared to Amazon's.The influencer model on TikTok is evolving into a joint venture relationship with brands.Live shopping is gaining traction, but may not be suitable for all brands.The traditional influencer marketing model is shifting towards performance-based compensation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to TikTok and Social Commerce 03:02 The TikTok Shop Experience 05:42 Frictionless Shopping on TikTok 08:57 The Impact of TikTok Shop on Sales 11:54 Understanding TikTokable Products 15:08 The Future of TikTok and Social Commerce 22:29 The Psychology of Impulse Buying 24:26 Conversion Strategies for E-commerce 25:19 Understanding TikTok Shop's Fee Structure 27:36 The Evolution of Influencer Marketing 30:03 Transparency in Affiliate Marketing 33:10 The Future of Social Commerce 35:40 The Role of Live Shopping in E-commerce 39:28 Authenticity in Content Creation 40:10 Predictions for TikTok and Competitors Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e4

    43 min
  8. E3: How Accounting Can Make or Break Your Brand

    JAN 15

    E3: How Accounting Can Make or Break Your Brand

    Summary In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Geoff Gualano discuss the critical role of accounting in ecommerce businesses. They explore the different phases of accounting maturity, from initial awareness to strategic forecasting and planning, emphasizing the importance of accurate accounting for business growth, investment opportunities, and overall financial health. The conversation highlights how understanding and implementing proper accounting practices can significantly impact a brand's success or failure in the competitive ecommerce landscape. Takeaways Accounting can significantly impact the success of a brand.Many businesses start with no accounting practices in place.Phase one is about recognizing the necessity of accounting for taxes.Phase two focuses on gaining visibility into business performance.Accrual accounting is essential for ecommerce businesses.Understanding accounting can prevent cash flow issues.Phase three involves strategic forecasting based on historical data.In Phase four, investors and lenders require accurate financial statements.Proper accounting practices can enhance business valuation during acquisitions.AI may assist in accounting but won't replace the need for human oversight. Sound Bites "Accounting can make or break your brand." "You may not value your accounting, but you know who does? Lenders, investors, and people who want to acquire your business. " "Don't ignore maturing your financial and accounting practices over other areas of the business." Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Accounting in Ecommerce 01:49 Understanding Accounting Maturity Phases 03:15 Phase One: The Awakening to Accounting 06:24 Phase Two: Gaining Visibility into Business Performance 11:39 Phase Three: The Transition to Strategic Accounting 15:53 The Role of Accrual Accounting in E-Commerce 21:18 Understanding Revenue Recognition Challenges 23:13 The Importance of Accurate Financial Visibility 25:18 Strategic Financial Planning and Forecasting 28:31 Building Trust with Accurate Financials 30:35 The Consequences of Poor Inventory Accounting 33:25 The Four Phases of Accounting Maturity 36:16 The Role of AI in Accounting Accuracy Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e3

    40 min
  9. E2: Ecommerce Budgeting & Forecasting: What, Why, How, When, and Who

    JAN 8

    E2: Ecommerce Budgeting & Forecasting: What, Why, How, When, and Who

    In this episode of the Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Preston Alder discuss the critical aspects of budgeting and forecasting in ecommerce. They explore the importance of understanding cash flow, the phases of financial management, and the strategies for building effective budgets and forecasts. They emphasize the need for accurate accounting and the flexibility required in planning to adapt to changing business conditions. Ultimately, they highlight how a structured approach to budgeting and forecasting can lead to profitable growth and reduced stress in managing a business. Sound Bites "Cash is king.""The budget is a P&L forecast.""Winging it only gets you so far." Takeaways Budgeting provides a clear picture of cash flow.Understanding cash flow is essential for daily decision-making.A structured budget helps in achieving profitable growth.Accurate financials are crucial for effective budgeting.Flexibility in planning allows for better adaptation to changes.The three phases of financial management are accounting, forecasting, and real-time measurement.Marketing and sales forecasts should be based on historical data.Cash flow forecasting is vital for inventory management.Regular reviews of budgets and forecasts help identify issues early.Building a budget requires collaboration across different business functions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Budgeting and Forecasting 02:32 The Importance of Budgeting in Business 05:13 Understanding Cash Flow and Its Impact 07:39 The Three Phases of Financial Management 10:22 Building a Budget: The How and Who 12:55 Marketing and Sales Forecasting Strategies 15:35 The Role of Agencies in Marketing 18:17 Lessons Learned from Outsourcing Marketing 20:52 Forecasting for Growth: The 10 Million Dollar Brand 21:59 Annual Cash Flow Forecasting: Strategies and Scenarios 24:13 The Importance of Team Collaboration in Financial Planning 26:01 Navigating Cash Flow and Budgeting Challenges 28:31 The Role of Profitability in Business Growth 30:36 Planning vs. Plans: The Importance of Strategic Flexibility 35:11 The Impact of Profit Focus on Business Operations Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e2

    38 min
  10. E1: 2025 Ecommerce Trends & Financial Implications

    JAN 1

    E1: 2025 Ecommerce Trends & Financial Implications

    In this episode of The Ecommerce Finance Podcast, Stephen Brown and Kelley Birrell discuss the key ecommerce trends for 2025, focusing on market growth, digital marketing challenges, the impact of interest rates and tariffs, the potential of TikTok Shop, the role of AI, supply chain issues, and the implications of the de minimis rule. Takeaways The ecommerce market is showing positive growth heading into 2025.Digital marketing efficiency is a critical area for brands to focus on.Interest rates are projected to decrease, but inflation remains a concern.New presidential administration should be good for business, except for...Tariffs could significantly affect profit margins for ecommerce businesses.TikTok Shop presents new opportunities for sales but could be banned.AI tools are transforming marketing and content creation for ecommerce.Supply chain disruptions are expected, particularly with potential strikes at ports.The de minimis rule may change, impacting international drop shipping.New marketing avenues are emerging. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to E-commerce Trends 00:44 Positive E-commerce Market Outlook 04:19 Challenges in Digital Marketing Efficiency 08:12 Mixed Trends: Interest Rates and Inflation 13:17 Business-Friendly Policies and Regulations 15:32 Tariffs and Their Impact on E-commerce 17:25 Navigating Tariffs and Cost Management 20:24 The TikTok Shop Dilemma 25:16 AI's Impact on E-commerce 29:05 Supply Chain Complexities 33:09 Understanding the De Minimis Rule 36:30 New Avenues for Sales and Marketing Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e1

    41 min
  11. Ecommerce Finance Podcast Trailer

    12/18/2024

    Ecommerce Finance Podcast Trailer

    Welcome to the eCommerce Finance Podcast. This podcast is here so that owners, operators, and others in ecommerce can have a better understanding of the financial implications of what they're doing. The reality is everything in a business has a financial impact and therefore every topic is on the table. Listen and learn so that your business can grow, experience sustained profitability, and achieve success. Work with LedgerGurus https://ledgergurus.com/ecommerce-accounting-services/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=e0

    1 min

    Trailer

    5
    out of 5
    4 Ratings

    About

    Hosted by Stephen Brown, COO of LedgerGurus and co-owner of DTC brand Sole Toscana, this podcast is your go-to resource for mastering the financial side of ecommerce. Stephen and his team have worked with hundreds of brands through LedgerGurus which specializes in ecommerce accounting. Add to that his hands-on experience with Sole Toscana, gives him unique insights into the challenges and opportunities ecommerce businesses face. On The eCommerce Finance Podcast, we dive deep into the financial side of ecommerce. Any topic is open for discussion as everything you do in business has a financial impact. Be prepared to go deep with experts and brand leaders on a variety of topics with an understanding of their financial impacts. Join us as we bring you practical tips, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you thrive with ecommerce. Tune in and transform your ecommerce business today!

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