We Built Our Own Incrementality Testing Tool Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth podcast

33:17

Are you obsessively tweaking your ad campaigns only to see flat results? In this episode of the Podcast, Richard sits down with Luke Austin, to expose why daily bid and budget changes are wasting your time and money. They dive into the root issue behind inconsistent performance: a lack of belief in the data. Luke shares the system CTC uses to align teams, set targets with confidence, and stop the reactive cycle. You’ll learn why geo holdout testing is the most trustworthy signal in media buying, and how shifting focus to creative output rather than micromanaging ad accounts is the real unlock for growth. If your team is stuck in the weeds, this conversation will show you how to rise above and operate with clarity. Stop second-guessing. Start scaling with confidence. Show Notes: Go to alialearn.com and mention our podcast on the demo, to get 30 days free and 20% off! Sign up for a 30 day trial and TaxCloud will give you free migration onboarding services when you decide to make the switch. Check it out at taxcloud.com/thread Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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Inside the $10M+ Brand Growth Workflow (Real Client Example) 23:57

4 days ago23:57

23:57

Ever wonder how $10M+ ecommerce brands make their next move? In this episode of the Podcast, Taylor and Richard walk through a real world growth scenario pulled directly from CTC’s work with a 9-figure brand. Using live data from our proprietary platform, Statlas, we break down exactly how our team evaluates performance, spots hidden opportunities, and decides what to do next. What You’ll Learn: What to do when you’re overperforming Why beating your forecast might signal a problem How a growth strategist holds the tension between short-term efficiency and long-term scale The metrics and hierarchy we use to power every decision If you’re serious about scaling your brand with clarity, precision, and profit in mind this is the inside look you need. Show Notes: Go to https://your.omnisend.com/CTC to get 20% off your first 3 months with code CTC20. See Taylor’s Tweet: https://x.com/TaylorHoliday/status/1920552618914373992 Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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We Killed the Growth Map! Here’s What Replaces It 26:01

9 days ago26:01

26:01

We just did something radical: we killed the Growth Map—CTC’s signature media buying tool used for years across hundreds of ecommerce brands. Why? Because AI changed the game. In this episode of the Podcast, we break down why our old system no longer works, how AI is reshaping the future of media buying, and what we’re building to replace human limitations with 24/7 omnipresence. Learn about: Why the Growth Map is dead What “circadian media buying” is (and why it’s obsolete) How AI forecasts spend, ROAS, and campaign performance better than any human The launch of Compass + Scout—CTC’s next-gen media ops platform What role humans still play in an AI-dominated future This isn’t just a tech update. It’s a shift in how performance marketing will be done from now on. Show Notes: Common Thread listeners get $250 by depositing $5,000 or spending $5,000 using the Mercury IO credit card within your first 90 days (or do both for $500) at mercury.com/ctc .! Sign up for a 30 day trial and TaxCloud will give you free migration onboarding services when you decide to make the switch. Check it out at taxcloud.com/thread Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group , Column, N.A. , and Evolve Bank & Trust , Members FDIC. The IO Card is issued by Patriot Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard. Learn more about cashback . Working capital loans provided by Mercury Lending, LLC NMLS ID : 2606284.…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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Growth Is a Muscle—Here’s How to Train It 21:14

11 days ago21:14

21:14

Most brands think they have a growth problem—but what they really have is a DOING problem. In this episode, we break down why volume of action is the single greatest predictor of business growth—and how to build a system that trains this muscle every day. From 400+ ads to 52 product launches a year, we’ll show you what it takes to build momentum, create consistently, and generate real results. You’ll learn: Why most brands dramatically underestimate the effort required The 3-stage framework: Quantity → Diversity → Quality How consistent action builds compound returns The system we use at CTC to drive mid-8-figure growth If you’re tired of waiting and ready to start creating, this is your blueprint.. Show Notes: Go to https://your.omnisend.com/CTC to get 20% off your first 3 months with code CTC20. Shaping the Future of DTC in 2025: Virtual Event - May 12th - https://go.chargeflow.io/ctc-dtc-2025 Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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How Skullcandy Used a Competitor to Win New Customer 37:54

16 days ago37:54

37:54

What happens when you collaborate with a competitor instead of competing with them? In this episode of the Podcast, we sit down with Skullcandy CEO Brian Garofalow to unpack the bold business strategy behind their surprising partnership with Bose. From leveraging “product as marketing” to rebranding perception, launching at $99, and turning retail into a megaphone, this episode is a masterclass in how to create buzz, distribution, and long-term brand equity. You’ll learn: Why Skullcandy teamed up with Bose (and how it worked) The hidden math behind smart brand partnerships How to make your product the marketing Lessons DTC brands can apply at any scale. Show Notes: Go to alialearn.com and mention our podcast on the demo, toget 30 days free and 20% off! Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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We Built Our Own Incrementality Testing Tool 43:04

18 days ago43:04

43:04

After years of relying on expensive, limited solutions, we decided to build our own. In this episode of the Podcast, CTC’s VP of Ecommerce Strategy Luke Austin is joined by VP of Technology Kwa and Director of Data Steve Rekuc to unveil our brand new incrementality testing platform — now available to all CTC partners. We’ll break down: Why incrementality testing is the gold standard of marketing measurement How our tool makes geo holdout testing more affordable and accessible Real world results from brands already using it How this changes the way we plan, forecast, and allocate ad budgets If you’re tired of guessing what your ads are really doing, this one’s for you.. Show Notes: Common Thread listeners get $250 by depositing $5,000 or spending $5,000 using the Mercury IO credit card within your first 90 days (or do both for $500) at mercury.com/ctc .! What Drove March?: https://commonthreadco.com/blogs/coachs-corner/march-lessons-from-ecommerce-growth-strategy Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group , Column, N.A. , and Evolve Bank & Trust , Members FDIC. The IO Card is issued by Patriot Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard. Learn more about cashback . Working capital loans provided by Mercury Lending, LLC NMLS ID : 2606284.…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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March Report Card: Did We Hit or Miss the Forecast 21:29

23 days ago21:29

21:29

How did our clients actually perform in March 2025? On this episode of the podcast, Taylor and Richard break down the latest performance scorecard across our client portfolio—revealing exactly how we stacked up against forecasted revenue, spend, and contribution margin goals. Spoiler: We beat margin expectations by +11.68%, but that’s just the beginning. Here’s what you’ll learn: The exact numbers behind our March forecast (and how close we came) Why most agency case studies are misleading How to evaluate an agency with real data, not anecdotes How CTC forecasts client growth using a self-scrutinizing model Why contribution margin is our north star metric—and what that means for your brand If you’ve ever wondered how to hold an agency accountable (including your own), this is the episode for you. Show Notes: Common Thread listeners get $250 by depositing $5,000 or spending $5,000 using the Mercury IO credit card within your first 90 days (or do both for $500) at mercury.com/ctc .! What Drove March?: https://commonthreadco.com/blogs/coachs-corner/march-lessons-from-ecommerce-growth-strategy Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group , Column, N.A. , and Evolve Bank & Trust , Members FDIC. The IO Card is issued by Patriot Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard. Learn more about cashback . Working capital loans provided by Mercury Lending, LLC NMLS ID : 2606284.…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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2025 Guide to Profitable META Media Buying 53:35

25 days ago53:35

53:35

Meta’s ad platform has changed—again. In this episode, we break down the exact strategies we’re using at Common Thread Collective to drive profitable growth for ecommerce brands in 2025. You’ll learn: Why cost caps alone won’t cut it anymore How we’re adapting bidding strategies to Meta’s new algorithm The role of creative diversification in targeting & scale How to use attribution windows (like 1-day view) without losing your shirt The importance of incrementality and media measurement What we’re doing right now to unlock growth in high AOV accounts Whether you’re running Meta ads for a $500K brand or a $50M powerhouse, this is your tactical blueprint for media buying that actually works in 2025. Show Notes: Go to alialearn.com and mention our podcast on the demo, toget 30 days free and 20% off! Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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Why 50 Brands Trust Our $5K Global Accelerator 18:24

4 weeks ago18:24

18:24

What if you could get full funnel growth support, media buying, strategy, forecasting, creative direction, for just $5K/month on a month-to-month agreement? In this episode of the Podcast, Richard and Taylor break down the $5K Global Accelerator Program that’s helped over 50 seven-figure brands grow through one of the most volatile economic environments in recent memory. You’ll learn: Why this program was built specifically for $1M–$10M brands The systems and structure behind its outsized results How CTC leverages global talent, proven frameworks, and technology to deliver enterprise-grade strategy Why brands are staying longer, scaling faster, and spending smarter We’re opening up 12 new spots this month—this is your chance to join the movement. Show Notes: Common Thread listeners get $250 by depositing $5,000 or spending $5,000 using the Mercury IO credit card within your first 90 days (or do both for $500) at mercury.com/ctc .! Get our Global Accelerator Program: https://commonthreadco.com/pages/accelerator The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group , Column, N.A. , and Evolve Bank & Trust , Members FDIC. The IO Card is issued by Patriot Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard. Learn more about cashback . Working capital loans provided by Mercury Lending, LLC NMLS ID : 2606284.…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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How to Tailor Your Tariff Response: The 4-Part System 19:44

5 weeks ago19:44

19:44

Tariffs are here—and they’re not hitting every brand the same. In this solo episode, Taylor walks through a critical 4 part framework designed to help ecommerce founders and operators craft the right response based on their unique balance sheet realities. Whether you’re cash rich with deep inventory or strapped for both, this episode will help you determine your strategic posture: go on offense, get lean, or something in between. What’s covered: The 4 key variables shaping your response (cash, inventory, debt, velocity) How to know which type of brand you are What to adjust in your CAC targets and growth strategy Real examples from CTC’s private client webinar This isn’t one-size-fits-all advice—it's an actionable strategy based on your business’s real financial position.. Show Notes: Go to alialearn.com and mention our podcast on the demo, toget 30 days free and 20% off! Get our Tariff Relief Plan: http://ctctariffrelief.com/ The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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Forget Stability—Chaos Is the New Normal 33:05

5 weeks ago33:05

33:05

If you’re waiting for things to “go back to normal” in ecommerce… stop. In this episode, Taylor and Richard break down why chaos is no longer the exception “it’s the rule” and what that means for how you run your brand. From unpredictable macro shifts to supply chain disruptions, stability is out. Adaptability is everything. We dive into the 7 core traits of anti-fragile brands, why your inventory strategy might be your biggest risk, and how to make smart decisions in a volatile market. Whether you’re trying to maximize EBITDA or just stay alive in the current landscape, this conversation will help you plan, act, and build with uncertainty in mind. Show Notes: Go to Opensend.com/book-a-demo and start your 2-week trial for just $1. Get our Tariff Relief Plan: http://ctctariffrelief.com/ The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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Tariffs, Sentiment & Spending: What the Data Says About Q2 20:41

6 weeks ago20:41

20:41

In this episode of the Podcast, Richard is joined by Steve Rekuc, our Director of Data, for a deep dive into what Q1 taught us — and what’s coming next. We’re breaking down the latest from our Direct to Consumer Confidence Index (DTCCI) and revealing what macroeconomic signals, consumer sentiment, and real brand performance tell us about the road ahead. Spoiler: It’s not just vibes anymore — the data shows real shifts in behavior that you need to understand. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why Q1 consumer sentiment hit record lows How shoppers are thinking (and acting) in the face of economic uncertainty What our data reveals about new customer acquisition struggles The impact of tariffs, stock market drops, and shifting confidence on Q2 forecasts How Facebook’s Andromeda update is influencing ad performance (hint: high CTR, low CVR) Why future and present purchase sentiment matters more than ever What our MER based DTCCI forecast predicts for April and beyond Whether you’re a DTC founder, performance marketer, or ecommerce operator, this conversation is packed with insights to help you navigate a turbulent Q2. Show Notes: Go to https://your.omnisend.com/CTC to get 20% off your first 3 months with code CTC20. Get our Tariff Relief Plan: http://ctctariffrelief.com/ Get the DTCCI: https://dtcci.co/ The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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Tariffs Are Here: We’re Offering Emergency Support 6:05

6 weeks ago6:05

6:05

Emergency Update for Ecommerce Brands: Tariffs have arrived and they’re already impacting your bottom line. Costs are rising, margins shrinking, and uncertainty is high. But you’re not alone. In this special episode, Taylor Holiday (CEO, Common Thread Collective) breaks down the immediate impact of these tariffs and announces the CTC Tariff Relief Program—an emergency initiative designed specifically to protect your profitability, reduce your costs, and offer vital cash-flow relief. What You’ll Learn: Immediate steps to reduce your operating expenses by at least 20% Strategies for managing cash flow in uncertain times How to maintain growth despite sudden cost increases Details on the CTC Tariff Relief Program (including a special $500 guarantee) Get our Tariff Relief Plan: https://commonthreadco.com/pages/tariff-relief…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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YouTube Ads: The Underestimated Channel Driving Real Growth Right Now 44:08

6 weeks ago44:08

44:08

Are you overlooking YouTube ads in your marketing strategy? On today’s podcast, we’re breaking down why most brands are significantly underestimating YouTube and how it’s quietly becoming the hidden gem driving real, profitable growth for smart advertisers. Joined by Rachel Kwon (Head of Paid Search) and Tony Chopp (VP of Paid Media) from Common Thread Collective, we dive into: Why YouTube ads are misunderstood and undervalued by most brands Key insights from recent incrementality studies that reveal YouTube’s true potential Practical strategies for integrating YouTube ads effectively into your current marketing mix A step-by-step approach for testing and scaling your YouTube investment If you’re serious about unlocking your next level of profitable growth, you can’t afford to ignore YouTube any longer. Show Notes: Go to https://your.omnisend.com/CTC to get 20% off your first 3 months with code CTC20. Explore the PROPHIT System: prophitsystem.com The Ecommerce Playbook mailbag is open — email us at podcast@commonthreadco.com to ask us any questions you might have about the world of ecomm…

Ecommerce Playbook: Numbers, Struggles & Growth

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This Broke the Internet: The ChatGPT Update That Changed Everything 44:35

7 weeks ago44:35