James and Jennifer are joined by their final guest, Matt Hertz, Founder and CEO of Third Person, a digital marketplace helping ecommerce brands discover and connect with the right fulfillment partners. With 15 years of experience leading ecommerce operations at companies like Rent the Runway, Birchbox, and Shyp, Matt also runs a consultancy, Second Marathon, that has helped brands like Hexclad, Away, Birdies, and Milk Bar optimize their supply chains. He’s an active advisor and angel investor and lives in Nashville.

Why Rhoback?
Matt first noticed their apparel on Zoom calls—specifically, the logo of a dog featured prominently on shirts. Curious, he did some research and discovered the brand’s activewear, performance polos, and strong connection to dog lovers. As a self-described “dinkwad” (dual income, no kids, with a dog), Matt connected immediately with Rhoback’s mission and branding.
Explore Rhoback: www.rhoback.com

Research Included These Sources

• Rhoback: www.rhoback.com/pages/our-story
• G&E Magazine: www.gandemagazine.com/a-quick-round-with-rhoback-activewear
• RocketReach: www.rocketreach.co/rhoback-profile_b4568f62fca05faa
• The Darden Report: news.darden.virginia.edu/2017/02/12/rhoback-activewear-startup
• Washingtonian: www.washingtonian.com/2017/10/23/story-behind-rhodesian-ridgeback-dog-inspired-activewear-line-awesome
• Change Climate: explore.changeclimate.org/brand/rhoback-inc

Other Sites Mentioned

• Shoe Dog (Nike Memoir): en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoe_Dog
• Christopher Reeve: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Reeve
• American Humane: www.americanhumane.org
• Reeve Foundation: www.christopherreeve.org

Connect with Matt Hertz

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hertz/
• Third Person: www.thirdperson.co

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

James and Jennifer are joined by Kevin Lawton, founder of The New Warehouse podcast and blog, which he launched in 2019 to bring awareness to the warehousing industry. With 13 years of experience in inventory control and operations management, Kevin has been involved in multiple new distribution center start-ups and is an adjunct professor at Rider University, teaching supply chain management.

Why Brightland?
Kevin discovered Brightland while touring a 3PL warehouse and was immediately drawn to its packaging design and branding. Seeing the products firsthand on the warehouse shelves sparked his interest in their visual appeal and packaging quality. This led him to explore the brand further, making it a natural choice for this episode’s unboxing.
Explore Brightland: www.brightland.co

Research Included These Sources

• Brightland: www.brightland.co/pages/about-brightland-olive-oil
• Entreprenista Podcast: www.entreprenista.com/podcast/redefining-the-food-industry-with-aishwarya-iyer
• New York Post: www.nypost.com/2021/09/14/brightland-olive-oils-review-why-theyre-worth-the-hype/
• Bristol Farms: www.bristolfarms.com/founders/mtf-aishwarya-iyer-brightland-olive-oil
• Food & Wine: www.foodandwine.com/brightland-duo-olive-oil-review-8757043
• Crunchbase: www.crunchbase.com/organization/brightland-3dd6

Curated Technology List

• Corso: www.corso.com

Other Sites Mentioned:

• Zingerman’s: www.zingermansdeli.com/events

Connect with Kevin Lawton

• Website: www.thenewwarehouse.com
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-new-warehouse

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

This week James and Jennifer are joined by Hillary Hughes, Principal at Foster Garvey, a full-service law firm with 150 attorneys across six offices in the U.S. Hillary is a business, food & beverage, CPG, beauty & wellness, sports & entertainment, fashion & apparel, and technology attorney. She shares insights on legal considerations for consumer brands, including intellectual property, contracts, and the evolving landscape of ecommerce.

Why Loop Earplugs?
Hillary selected Loop Earplugs after a team brainstorming session, where a colleague suggested the brand for its innovative approach to noise protection. Initially unfamiliar with the product, she was intrigued by its stylish, functional design and the ability to modulate sound flow. The brand’s sleek aesthetic and growing popularity made it a compelling choice for review.
Explore Loop Earplugs: www.loopearplugs.com

Research Included These Sources

• Loop Earplugs: www.loopearplugs.com/pages/about-loop
• Loop Earplugs Founders Story: www.loopearplugs.com/blogs/blog/the-founders-story
• CNBC Make It: www.cnbc.com/2023/10/10/loop-earplugs-how-childhood-friends-startup-brings-in-millions.html
• Fast Company: www.fastcompany.com/91030352/loop-earplugs-most-innovative-companies-2024

Curated Technology List

• Narvar: www.corp.narvar.com

Other Sites Mentioned

• Loop Returns: www.loopreturns.com
• Jeff Kaiden:  Summer Fridays with Jeff Kaiden

Connect with Hillary Hughes

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hillaryhhughes/
• Foster Garvey: www.foster.com/people-hillary-hughes

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

This week James and Jennifer are joined by Derek Loftus, Co-Founder of PopCapacity, a platform focused on adding visibility and a modern procurement experience for brands when sourcing and connecting with warehousing partners for fulfillment and storage. With expertise in e-commerce fulfillment and customer experience, Derek shares insights on how brands evaluate and select their distribution partners based on location, capabilities, automation, and more.

Why 1st Phorm?
Derek chose 1st Phorm because it has been on his radar for a while, appearing in his social media feed and through fitness influencers he follows. A friend also recommended their products, highlighting their high quality. Additionally, as a logistics expert, Derek was curious about how a brand that self-fulfills would handle order processing, especially given their wide product selection.
1st Phorm: www.1stphorm.com

Research Included These Sources

• 1st Phorm: www.1stphorm.com/pages/about-us
• Andy Frisella: www.andyfrisella.com
• 1st Phorm Corporate Apparel: www.1stphormathletics.com
• AALCO Athletic Equipment: www.aalcomfg.com/products/featured-facilities/1st-phorm-hq
• Fox2 Now: www.fox2now.com/news/missouri/who-is-andy-frisella-founder-of-1st-phorm
• Yahoo News: www.yahoo.com/news/andy-frisella-founder-1st-phorm-215438826.html?guccounter=1
• KSDK: www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/club-fitness-removes-1st-phorm-products-andy-frisella/63-59a3f120-6800-4d8e-9b69-c1227235ccb3
• OFS: www.ofs.com/explore/case-studies/1st-phorm-corporate-headquarters
• Tracxn: www.tracxn.com/d/companies/1st-phorm/__kVl_2rcuoRqNsK7NES3q7OS5F4OlCLgQbdn8QO0Lhm8

Curated Technology List

• Narvar: www.corp.narvar.com
• Rebuy: www.rebuyengine.com

Other Sites Mentioned

• Company Towns: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Company_town
• MFCEO Podcast: www.andyfrisella.com/blogs/mfceo-project-podcast

Connect with Derek Loftus

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/derek-loftus/
• Website: www.popcapacity.com

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

This Week on Unboxing Ecommerce James and Jennifer are joined by Kate Klemmer Terry, Chief Commercial Officer at Outerspace, a 3PL company redefining fulfillment for mid-to-high-end brands. With extensive experience in retail, logistics, and brand strategy, Kate shares her insights into the dynamic world of ecommerce, including emerging challenges and opportunities for brands navigating supply chain complexities.

Why Tuckernuck?
Kate selected Tuckernuck for its unique position as a multi-brand retailer catering to mid-to-high-end customers. Known for its curated apparel, home goods, and athleisure, Tuckernuck exemplifies a commitment to storytelling and elevated customer experiences.
Explore Tuckernuck: www.tnuck.com

Research Included These Sources:

• Tuckernuck: www.tnuck.com/pages/about-us
• Modern Luxury DC: www.dc.capitolfile.com/tuckernuck-founders-interview-pickleball-athleisure-georgetown
• CBInsights: www.cbinsights.com/company/tuckernuck
• Washingtonian: www.washingtonian.com/2024/08/15/how-a-dc-label-became-a-capitol-hill-staple
• PR Newswire: www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/apparel-company-tuckernuck-joins-whiplash-fulfillment-network-301514922.html

Curated Technology List:

• Vela: www.vela.eco
• Nosto: www.nosto.com
• Elevar: www.getelevar.com

Other Sites Mentioned:

• Nice Laundry: www.nicelaundry.com
• The StartOps guide to Ecommerce Returns Cost Mitigation: www.startops.network/media/the-startops-guide-to-ecommerce-returns-cost-mitigation

Connect with Kate:

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kate-klemmer-terry-1a81609/
• Outerspace: www.outerspace.com

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

This week on Unboxing Ecommerce, James and Jennifer are joined by Robyn Young, an entrepreneur, brand strategist, and founder of Young & Co, an indie creative partner for startups to scaleups. With a career spanning 18 years, Robyn combines strategic thinking with creative magic to build ‘sticky,’ memorable brand ecosystems.

Why Ghia?
Robyn chose Ghia for its strong visual identity, captivating storytelling, and its role in promoting the non-alcoholic lifestyle movement. As a pioneer in the category, Ghia’s approach combines artistry, functionality, and a commitment to creating a lifestyle brand.
Explore Ghia: www.drinkghia.com

Research included these sources

• Ghia: www.drinkghia.com
• Food Republic: www.foodrepublic.com/1361139/ghia-shark-tank-now
• Shark Tank Appearance: www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1b7kNAqwOE
• Forbes: www.forbes.com/sites/jeanettehurt/2024/01/19/ghia-continues-its-dramatic-growth-in-the-non-alcoholic-market
• Pitchbook: www.pitchbook.com/profiles/company/399237-13
• Growjo: www.growjo.com/company/GHIA#revenue-financials

Curated Technology List

• Rise.ai: www.rise.ai
• Recharge: www.getrecharge.com

Other Sites Mentioned

• Liquid Death: www.liquiddeath.com
• Recess: www.takearecess.com
• Anthropologie Volcano Candle: www.anthropologie.com

Connect with Robyn:

• www.thisisyoung.co
• www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-young
• Brand FUps* Podcast: www.thisisyoung.co/podcast
• Waitlist for Robyn’s Book: www.thisisyoung.co/book-waitlist

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

Let’s get to the box—and this time, it’s a big one! Jennifer and James are celebrating an entire year of Unboxing Ecommerce, and this special episode is all about reflecting on the 28 episodes so far.

From humble beginnings as a one-episode experiment to reaching listeners across 37 countries, this podcast has grown into something far beyond what they imagined. With laughter, gratitude, and a touch of nostalgia, Jennifer and James unpack the stories, surprises, and lessons that have shaped their first year.

Whether you’ve been with them since episode one or you’re tuning in for the first time, this episode is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

What’s Inside

• A look back at their first year of podcasting: the challenges, surprises, and wins.
• Memorable moments that shaped the show and its community.
• A heartfelt message to listeners and their vision for show in the future.

Join the Conversation
Jennifer and James would love to hear from you! Share your favorite moments, questions, or ideas for future episodes at [email protected]. This podcast is a team effort, and every listener is part of it.

Mentioned in the episode:

• Taryn Sowa Podcast Productions:  www.tarynsowa.com

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

On this episode of Unboxing Ecommerce, James and Jennifer order from Momofuku Goods with special guest, Moni Kupczak Ainslie. Moni is the Founder of Koopslie a consultancy that optimizes Faire stores for brands in CPG, beauty, fashion, and gift. By using her 360 Faire Optimization method, Moni helps awesome brands show up in search, get the click and convert to more sales.

Why Momofuku?
Moni chose Momofuku Goods for their delicious products, strong branding, and her admiration for founder David Chang. As a Faire specialist, she also wanted to analyze a brand listed on the platform, making Momofuku a perfect fit.
Momofuku Goods: www.momofuku.com

Research included these sources

• Momofuku: www.momofuku.com/our-company/team
• Pitchbook: www.pitchbook.com/profiles/company/99225-01#overview
• Fast Company: www.fastcompany.com/90945101/momofuku-ceo-marguerite-zabar-mariscal-100-million-food-company
• The Lo Times: www.thelotimes.com/p/momofuku-ko-closed-david-chang-review-restaurant
• Bon Apetit: www.bonappetit.com/story/david-chang-momofuku-ko-closing-explained
• The Guardian: www.theguardian.com/food/2024/apr/04/chili-crunch-trademark-momofuku-david-chang
• Cup Noodles Museum: www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/en/osaka_ikeda/about/
• Forbes: www.forbes.com/sites/meimeifox/2023/03/01/how-ceo-marguerite-mariscal-slayed-by-pivoting-momofuku-from-restaurants-to-consumer-goods/

Other Sites mentioned

• Chili Crunch Trademark Discussion:  https://www.theringer.com/podcasts/the-dave-chang-show/2024/04/12/discussing-momofuku-chili-crunch-with-marguerite-mariscal
• The Dave Chang Show: https://www.theringer.com/podcasts/the-dave-chang-show
• The Recipe Club Podcast:  https://www.theringer.com/podcasts/recipe-club
• Eat a Peach by David Chang: www.literatibookstore.com/book/9781524759230
• Major Domo Media: www.majordomo.com

Connect with Moni:
www.koopslie

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

On this episode of Unboxing Ecommerce, James and Jennifer take an unconventional approach by combining lunch and logistics. With no guest, they order from Taco Bell to explore how this fast-food giant exemplifies top-tier operations and ecommerce practices. From their smooth online ordering experience to insights on Taco Bell's unique branding and efficient systems, they dig into what makes the brand a leader in the space—while also enjoying some guilty-pleasure menu items.
Taco Bell: www.tacobell.com

Research included these sources

• Taco Bell: www.tacobell.com/history
• Wikipedia: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taco_Bell
• YUM! Brands: www.yum.com/wps/portal/yumbrands/Yumbrands
• Taco Bell Foundation: www.tacobellfoundation.org
• Fast Company: www.fastcompany.com/91064275/taco-bell-most-innovative-companies-2024-2

Curated Technology List

• Fullstory: www.fullstory.com
• Next.js: www.nextjs.org

Other Sites mentioned

• The Onion’s satirical coverage of Taco Bell: www.theonion.com/taco-bells-five-ingredients-combined-in-totally-new-way-1819564909/
• Types of diffusion in Geography: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_diffusion
• Ending Trademark on Taco Tuesday: www.bleacherreport.com/articles/10076948-lebron-james-joins-taco-bell-in-effort-to-end-taco-tuesday-trademark-registrations
• Retail co-location benefits: www.loopnet.com/learn/4-advantages-of-co-retailing/973314239

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com

On this episode of Unboxing Ecommerce, James and Jennifer order from Tracksmith with special guest, Blair Beckwith. Blair has been working in the commerce enablement space for more than a decade. He got his start building the Shopify App Store. Today, he leads growth at Mantle, a company that powers back office and growth tooling for commerce enablement software companies.

Why Tracksmith?
Blair discovered Tracksmith while working with a reviews platform and was immediately drawn to their aesthetic and approach to running culture. Unlike the typical neon-heavy running gear, Tracksmith's understated, classic New England-inspired design stood out, embodying a vintage track team vibe.
Tracksmith: www.tracksmith.com

Research included these sources

• Tracksmith: www.tracksmith.com/pages/about
• Forbes: www.forbes.com/sites/katiebaron/2022/10/11/tracksmith-expands-how-americas-most-intellectual-running-brand-is-closing-cult-status
• Outside: www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/run/tracksmith-running-brand-business-profile
• Crunchbase: www.crunchbase.com/organization/tracksmith
• Pitchbook: www.pitchbook.com/profiles/company/65264-59#overview
• Tracksmith Fellowship: www.tracksmith.com/pages/tracksmith-fellowship-program
• Tracksmith Fellowship Recipient, Dinée Dorame: www.groundedpod.com/about/

Curated Technology List

• DatoCMS: www.datocms.com
• MNTN: www.mountain.com
• JustUno: www.justuno.com

Other Sites mentioned

• How To Pronounce: www.howtopronounce.com/luke-scheybeler
• Unlocking the Customer Value Chain: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/562858/unlocking-the-customer-value-chain-by-thales-s-teixeira-with-greg-piechota/

Connect with Blair:
www.heymantle.com
www.linkedin.com/in/blairbeckwith

_______________

Have a brand/shopping experience you want us to review? Send us a message at [email protected]

Connect with James Marks:
www.linkedin.com/in/jameslmarks
www.withtrivial.com

Connect with Jennifer Yates:
www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferayates
www.workwithroux.com
_______________

Coverart imagined and designed by our friend, Melissa Dettloff
www.melissadettloff.com