Modern technology makes starting an online business easy. However, that also means stiffer competition.

How can aspiring entrepreneurs succeed in the world of e-commerce?

In this episode, Jesse Ness, at Ecwid by Lightspeed, joins hosts Reid Jackson and Liz Sertl to discuss the essential steps and common pitfalls of starting and growing an online business. They discuss ways high-quality imagery, detailed product descriptions, and social media engagement can help your store stand out. Jesse also shares insights on emerging market trends like live selling and community engagement.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How storytelling helps brands stand out in a crowded e-commerce market

• The first steps to setting up a successful online store

• Tips to overcome growth plateaus and how to scale your business effectively

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Next Level Supply Chain

(01:43) Online selling with Ecwid

(04:02) How to set up an online store

(08:27) Share your brand story

(12:11) Why entrepreneurs give up too soon

(17:10) The rise of live selling and other e-commerce trends

(22:16) Jesse Ness’ favorite tech

(24:34) Using AI to enhance daily life

Connect with GS1 US:

Our website - www.gs1us.org

GS1 US on LinkedIn

Connect with the guest:

Jesse Ness on LinkedIn

Check out Ecwid by Lightspeed

This year has been packed with incredible supply chain stories showcasing innovation, collaboration, and inspiring moments in supply chain logistics.

In this episode, hosts Reid Jackson and Liz Sertl take you through their favorite conversations of the year, featuring insights from industry leaders like Gena Morgan, Dr. Darin Detwiler, and Chuck Lasley. They discuss key topics that defined the year—data quality, traceability, retail automation, and the UPC barcode—all while looking ahead to what’s next in 2025.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Key trends that influenced supply chains in 2024

• Innovations driving transparency and traceability

• Exploring the future of 2D barcodes and data quality

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Next Level Supply Chain

(01:48) 2D barcodes, data quality, and GS1 standards

(05:20) E-commerce and supply chain challenges

(06:37) Improving traceability and food safety

(11:04) The adoption of the barcode and its multiple uses

(13:11) Liz’s favorite episodes

(15:14) Reid’s favorite episodes

Connect with GS1 US:

Our website - www.gs1us.org

GS1 US on LinkedIn

What started as a college project has now become a pantry staple sold in over 5,000 stores.

In this episode, Matt Pittaluga, Co-Founder of Hank Sauce, joins hosts Reid Jackson and Liz Sertl to share how a homemade hot sauce grew into a beloved national brand.

Matt explains how traceability and consistency have been key to scaling the business while keeping product quality high. Through detailed product codes and a robust production database, Hank Sauce tracks every ingredient from batch creation to store shelves, ensuring full transparency and control.

This meticulous approach to data and process has fueled Hank Sauce’s growth from a local favorite to a nationwide success.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Hank Sauce scaled its distribution to national retailers
• The importance of traceability in ensuring food safety and product quality
• Strategies for building networks to expand brand reach

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Introducing Next Level Supply Chain

(01:34) The Hank Sauce story

(06:38) Grassroots marketing and early sales strategies

(10:09) Scaling up distribution to large retailers

(13:22) The importance of traceability and food safety

(16:11) Building a brand with a limited marketing budget

(19:21) Advice for new entrepreneurs

(26:30) Matt Pittaluga’s favorite tech

Connect with GS1 US:

Our website - www.gs1us.org

GS1 US on LinkedIn

Connect with the guest:

Matt Pittaluga on LinkedIn

Check out Hank Sauce