Commerce Innovators

Vinod Kumar, former Head of Business Insights at Salesforce Commerce Cloud and current CEO of Syntheum AI, brings deep expertise in e-commerce and data analytics. Syntheum AI is the first Merchandising Operations Platform that works natively with Salesforce B2C Commerce Cloud to increase merchandising speed, improve merchandiser productivity, and reduce time to market. Learn more about Syntheum AI and how they aim to bring joy back to digital merchandising here - www.syntheum.ai.

Beyond tech, he's the proud owner of Kushala Sip Coffee House, a community-centric business where he combines digital innovation with local impact. If you are looking for a place to grab coffee and meet people over small bites in metro Boston, try - www.kushalasip.coffee.

To contact Vinod Kumar, DM him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kvinod77/.

Show Highlights:

• Introduction to the concept of "merchandising operations" or "MergeOps" and its significance post-COVID.
• The role of AI and algorithmic intelligence in transforming digital merchandising tasks.
• Best practices and pitfalls in optimizing digital merchandising strategies.
• The importance of integrating digital product managers to support merchandisers.
• Future trends in digital merchandising, including the shift towards more creative and collaborative tasks.
• Balancing automation with the human touch through data interpretation and leveraging customer feedback.

Follow and Review:

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Supporting Resources:

• Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

What happens when collaboration and digital innovation take center stage in a thriving community? Our guests, Steve Holsinger and Oleg Sapishchuk, co-founders of the unofficial Salesforce Commerce Cloud community, reveal just that! They trace the community's growth from humble beginnings in 2014 to a dynamic, inclusive platform today, highlighting the essential role of feedback and change in shaping its direction.

Steve and Oleg offer a fascinating comparison of their experiences under Salesforce's ownership and after the community gained independence. They lay emphasis on how this community, now open to all, is driven by its members' ideas and strives to create a space for learning and growth.

Hear first-hand accounts from Steve and Oleg about how this community serves as a knowledge-sharing and problem-solving resource. From exploring various engagement platforms to reflecting on the community's history and recognizing key contributors, we touch on many aspects that make this community integral to Salesforce Commerce Cloud. Join us for a dialogue filled with invaluable insights and inspiring stories, whether you're a new or seasoned member of this thriving community.

Show Highlights:

• Transition from a closed group to an open, inclusive platform with various components.
• Comparison between experiences under Salesforce's ownership and independence.
• The value of the SFCC community within the Salesforce ecosystem.
• Differences between the official Salesforce community and the unofficial Slack community.
• Expansion and strengthening of the Salesforce community.
• Recognition and expression of gratitude towards individuals who have contributed significantly to the growth and impact of the Salesforce Commerce Cloud community.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

• Unofficial SFCC Community: https://unofficialsfcc.com/
  • Unofficial SFCC Github: https://github.com/sfcc-unofficial
  • Unofficial SFCC Podcast: https://unofficialsfccpodcast.com/
  • Unofficial SFCC LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unofficial-sfcc/
• Steve Holsinger: https://quip.com/HDNAEAwcW3N
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/sholsinger
  • Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sholsinger/
  • Github: https://github.com/sholsinger
• Oleg Sapishchuk: https://quip.com/JcCAEAF9ph2
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/osapishchuk
  • Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osapishchuk/
  • Github: https://github.com/osapishchuk

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

In this episode, e-commerce pioneer Mark Rubin, founder of Kasama and Salesforce aficionado, takes us on a digital odyssey through his illustrious career in e-commerce development. From foregoing law school to embarking on a journey that's seen coding breakthroughs and vibrant city living, Mark reveals how personal passions and a humorous life philosophy have shaped his professional triumphs. He shares insights into the thrill of launching an e-commerce platform for St. Jude's and discusses the power of AI in commerce, the importance of soft skills, and the innovative strategies for deploying sites on Commerce Cloud. Whether you're a developer, project manager, or simply curious about the future of commerce, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to navigate the ever-evolving world of e-commerce with success.

Show Highlights:

• The role of personal interests and "superpowers" in Mark's professional success.
• Insights on rapid e-commerce development for St. Jude's and the thrill of launching innovative projects on Commerce Cloud.
• The importance of soft skills in tech, agency growth, and balancing technical expertise with leadership and communication.
• Approaches to deploying sites on Commerce Cloud, catering to B2C, B2B, and D2C business needs, and leveraging headless commerce.
• The transformative role of AI in commerce, enhancing capabilities for developers and project managers, and its application in real-world projects.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

• Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

In this episode, host Joreal Whitfield chats with Vito Petruzzelli, Senior Risk Intelligence Analyst at Signifyd, about the evolving landscape of e-commerce fraud and the lessons learned from the recent holiday season. From tackling industrialized scams to unlocking opportunities with first-time buyers, they explore how businesses can stay ahead in an increasingly complex digital world.

Key Insights Include:

• Learnings from Black Friday and Cyber Week trends
• Combating fraud while creating frictionless experiences for good buyers
• Tackling consumer abuse like returns fraud and triangulation schemes
• Tune in for actionable strategies and expert perspectives on protecting your business while driving fearless commerce in 2025 and beyond

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

Would you like to be on the podcast, or do you know someone who should? Submit a nomination here: http://sfdc.co/podnomination

To learn more about Commerce Cloud Innovations, go here: https://www.salesforce.com/commerce/innovations/

1. Check out Signifyd's 2024 cyber week results: https://www.signifyd.com/globe/

2. Access the latest ecommerce data and benchmarks from Signifyd's vast merchant network: https://www.signifyd.com/ecommerce-data-reports-pulse/

3. Join Vito Petruzzelli, Senior Risk Analyst at Signifyd, for a weekly casual virtual chat where fraud leaders and aspiring fraud leaders come together to just vent, share and connect: https://www.addevent.com/event/jR23311900

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

Liesl Walsh, a pioneer in digital retail transformation, explores the dynamic shifts in the shopping landscape, from fast fashion to immersive retail experiences. Drawing from her extensive experience with retail giants like Gap Inc. and Restoration Hardware, Liesl offers valuable perspectives into how e-commerce is redefining consumer habits, particularly for time-pressed parents.

The conversation examines the rapid rise of fast fashion brands like Shein and Temu, highlighting their innovative customer engagement tactics and the sustainability challenges they pose. Liesl also discusses the growing importance of personalization and technology in improving customer experiences.

Show Highlights:

• Examination of fast fashion's impact on retail, focusing on companies like Shein and Temu, their business models, and sustainability concerns.
• How personalization and strategic notifications enhance customer experience in modern retail.
• Insight into immersive retail experiences and how these experiences transform shopping into an event.
• The role of technology and data in enhancing customer engagement and personalization in retail.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

Would you like to be on the podcast, or do you know someone who should? Submit a nomination here: http://sfdc.co/podnomination

To learn more about Commerce Cloud Innovations, go here: https://www.salesforce.com/commerce/innovations/

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

In this episode of the Salesforce Commerce Innovations podcast, Joreal Whitfield interviews Vyara Ndejuru, VP of Marketing at Ascendis, to explore the intersection of strategy, design, and technology in driving innovation and growth. Vyara shares her journey from consumer marketing to B2B AI and highlights Ascendis' evolution from a strategy-focused consultancy to a multidisciplinary firm delivering transformative customer and employee experiences.

The conversation delves into how AI and composable commerce redefine workflows, the importance of aligning employee and customer experiences, and how partnerships like that with Salesforce enable Ascendis to address complex challenges for clients such as luxury wellness brand Rennaï. Key themes include fostering trust, reducing time-to-value, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to unlock business growth.

Show Highlights:

• Ascendis' evolution from a strategy consultancy to a strategy, design, and technology powerhouse.
• The importance of client-centric design and user research in driving business growth.
• The impact of AI and Progressive Web Apps on modern commerce and digital experiences.
• The strategic partnership between Ascendis and Salesforce.
• The role of technology in improving employee experiences to ensure superior customer service.
• Future commerce innovations, including the adoption of composable technologies and the significance of building advisor networks for entrepreneurs.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

Rich Lyons, founder of Lyons Consulting Group, shares his story of joining the e-commerce industry. He discusses the importance of strategic partnerships, recounting his collaboration with Demandware, now Salesforce Commerce Cloud, and its impact on e-commerce implementations. The conversation covers the significance of company culture, customer-centric strategies, and the balance between innovation and tradition in online business.

Rich also delves into the design versus functionality debate in e-commerce platforms and the evolving role of technology, such as AI, in enhancing customer experiences. The episode offers valuable lessons on navigating growth, acquisitions, and maintaining a strong company ethos in a competitive market.

Show Highlights:

• The evolution of e-commerce and his role in the growth of Demandware, now Salesforce Commerce Cloud.
• Strategic alliances and the importance of shared success models in the tech industry.
• Exploration of company culture and customer-centric strategies, emphasizing the value of customer relationships over contractual disputes.
• Discussion on balancing design and functionality in e-commerce platforms to enhance conversion rates.
• Composable vs. all-in-one commerce solutions and their impact on customer experience.
• The role of AI and technology in transforming customer experiences in the e-commerce landscape.
• Reflections on industry consolidation, acquisitions, and maintaining company ethos during market changes.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

To learn more about Commerce Cloud Innovations, go here: https://www.salesforce.com/commerce/innovations/

Interested in being a guest or know someone who should be? Use this nomination form: http://sfdc.co/podnomination

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

In this episode, we discuss the future of commerce with Rob Smith, Global VP of Technology at OSF Digital. The episode examines the groundbreaking AgentForce platform, highlighting its use of generative AI-powered autonomous agents that redefine customer engagement and service delivery. Discussions extend to the broader implications of AI adoption, emphasizing trust and security with Salesforce's Trust Layer and the critical role of early adoption for competitive advantage.

We also examine the future of e-commerce, exploring the impact of AI, the rise of social commerce, and shifting consumer behaviors post-COVID. This episode shows how AI is reshaping the e-commerce landscape, promising enhanced productivity and service experiences.

Show Highlights:

• In-depth discussion on AgentForce, a Salesforce tool using generative AI for autonomous customer service agents.
• Examination of the potential of AI in enhancing customer service experiences and productivity.
• AI adoption challenges and the importance of trust and security in digital interactions.
• The future of AI in e-commerce, including the impact of social commerce and conversational AI.
• Analysis of post-COVID consumer behavior shifts and the growing role of social platforms in shopping habits.
• Reflections on the necessity for businesses to adapt to AI advancements to maintain a competitive edge.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

To learn more about Commerce Cloud Innovations, go here: https://www.salesforce.com/commerce/innovations/

Interested in being a guest or know someone who should be? Use this nomination form: http://sfdc.co/podnomination

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

We explore the role of AI in commerce with Nicholas Teodori, a product manager at Commerce Cloud, and Fatemeh Khatibloo, Salesforce's Director of Responsible AI and Tech. They discuss the ethical integration of AI, emphasizing how digital personal assistants can be tailored to individual needs while navigating corporate algorithms. The conversation highlights the importance of AI agents in augmenting human roles, allowing workers to focus on meaningful tasks and enhancing productivity.

By exploring principles such as accuracy, safety, honesty, empowerment, and sustainability, the episode provides insights into deploying responsible AI solutions aligned with brand values. Looking to the future, Fatemeh and Nick envision AI assistants revolutionizing shopping experiences, emphasizing the need for equitable and responsible AI-driven solutions as the digital marketplace evolves.

Show Highlights:

• Exploration of AI's role in augmenting human tasks.
• Emphasis on responsible generative AI.
• Examination of AI's potential in digital shopping experiences.
• Insight into future AI assistant capabilities.
• Challenges and strategies in integrating ethical AI practices into product development and overcoming biases in AI models.
• Innovative AI solutions for modern markets.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

To learn more about Commerce Cloud Innovations, go here: https://www.salesforce.com/commerce/innovations/

Interested in being a guest or know someone who should be? Use this nomination form: http://sfdc.co/podnomination

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.

In this episode, we delve into the journey of Tracie Pruden, the visionary CIO of Advanced Turf Solutions, as she revolutionizes the green industry through technology. With a background as a Salesforce consultant, Tracie has spearheaded the digital transformation at Advanced Turf, implementing Salesforce CRM, expanding into Marketing Cloud, and launching successful e-commerce platforms. We explore the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from B2B to D2C sales, particularly during the surge in DIY lawn care amid COVID-19.

Tracie shares insights into the unique B2B sales environment, emphasizing the crucial role of knowledgeable sales consultants and the strategic use of technology to enhance customer relationships and service. As the company plans to expand its fulfillment capabilities across 30 locations, Tracie discusses the innovative strategies driving growth and the exciting future of Advanced Turf Solutions.

Show Highlights:

• Implementation of Salesforce CRM and expansion into Marketing Cloud.
• Launch of a direct-to-consumer (D2C) e-commerce platform.
• Challenges and strategies in launching both B2B and D2C e-commerce platforms.
• Future expansion plans for fulfillment across 30 locations.
• Leveraging a small team of agents to enhance customer service and manage growth.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Join the Commerce Cloud Community: http://sforce.co/commercecrew

To learn more about Commerce Cloud Innovations, go here: https://www.salesforce.com/commerce/innovations/

Would you like to be on the podcast or do you know someone who should? Submit a nomination here: http://sfdc.co/podnomination.

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.