This Product Business Life with Mel Robbins

Send us Fan Mail As we head toward the end of the year, I wanted to do something a little different with this episode. Instead of rushing straight into goal-setting, planning, and “new year, new energy” vibes, I wanted to create space to pause. To reflect. To actually look at what just happened in your business before you try to fix, change, or overhaul anything. Because every year I see the same pattern. We finish the year tired, relieved it’s over, and already thinking about what’s next. New goals, new plans, new strategies. And while I love that energy, what often gets skipped is reflection. Not reflection to beat yourself up. Not reflection to replay every mistake. But reflection so you don’t carry the same patterns into a new year and expect different results. In this episode, I walk you through the questions I think every product-based business owner needs to ask themselves. We talk about effort versus effectiveness, busy versus profitable, and why “fine” is not the same as sustainable. I also share why looking at your numbers matters more than ever, how to review your time and energy honestly, and why enjoyment and creativity still need a seat at the table if you want a business you actually want to grow. This episode is your permission slip to slow down, get curious, and reflect without pressure. If you want support with this process, I’ve linked my free Business Review & Reset download here , along with a vision board exercise if you like planning visually. You’ll also find links to Transform Your Wholesale and Roadmap to Profit, depending on where you’re at in your business. And if you’re already multi-six figures and thinking about what’s next, there’s a waitlist link here for a new next-level option I’m building for 2026. I’m taking a short break from the podcast after this episode to reflect, refine, and build what’s next with intention. Thank you so much for being here, for listening, and for growing alongside me. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail I’m switching things up in this episode and getting straight to it. No fancy intro, no long-winded warm-up. Just a real conversation about assumptions, beliefs, and the stories we tell ourselves that quietly shape how we show up in our business. Because lately, I’ve been hearing the same things again and again from product-based business owners. People aren’t buying anymore. Everyone only wants discounts. Nobody opens emails. January is dead. I don’t want to annoy my audience. And honestly? Most of these are not facts. They’re beliefs. And beliefs are just thoughts you’ve repeated long enough that they feel true. In this episode, I unpack some of the most common assumptions I see brands and retailers making about selling, marketing, email, Christmas, sales seasons, pricing, and customer behaviour. I also talk about where these beliefs come from, how negativity bias sneaks in, and why assuming the worst is one of the fastest ways to stall your growth. We talk about why selling is not pushy or icky, how marketing is actually service, and why your job is not to guess what’s going on in someone else’s wallet. If you’ve been holding back, second-guessing yourself, or quietly wondering if it’s even worth promoting right now, this episode is for you. Listen in, then ask yourself one simple question. Is this actually true, or is it just a belief I’ve been carrying around? Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail 5 Things Every Promo Email MUST Have (If You Want Sales!)** If your promo emails are getting meh opens or zero clicks, this quick-hit episode is your wake-up call. After reviewing dozens of client emails inside Nail Your Email Marketing and in my 1:1 sessions, I’ve seen the same mistakes again and again… especially during sales season. So today, I’m walking you through the 5 non-negotiables every promo email should include to actually get opened, read and clicked. This is your micro-masterclass in writing emails that convert, not collect dust in the inbox. In this episode, we cover: 1. Why your subject line needs to slap, not snooze Boring subject lines get ignored. You need curiosity, clarity, or straight-up benefits. I share what makes a subject line irresistible and why A/B testing should be your new best friend. 2. The must-have CTA above the fold If your audience has to scroll to find the link, you’ve already lost them. I break down what “above the fold” actually looks like and why clarity always wins. 3. High-contrast design that people can actually read Pastel on pastel? Tiny fonts? Hard pass. I share my go-to readability tool and the simple graphic design rule that will instantly improve your emails. 4. Clear, non-waffly copy that respects your customer’s time Promo emails should be quick, direct and obvious. No filler paragraphs, no “hope this finds you well.” Tell them the offer, why it matters and why they should care right now. 5. One email, one goal If you give people too many choices, they choose nothing. I walk through why your promos need ONE job and exactly how to structure them. + Bonus tip A little movement goes a long way — think GIFs, scrolling marquees, or icon-style features that communicate essential info fast. • Subject Line Examples: here • My favourite contrast checker: https://coolors.co/contrast-checker • Nail Your Email Marketing Program : Learn how to create emails that convert like crazy. Want help boosting your sales, getting your emails actually opened, and creating a marketing system that makes money while you sleep? Join my Nail Your Email Marketing program. You will be obsessed. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail Kickstarter Wins, Manufacturing Nightmares and a Sink Brush That Broke the Internet: The YesECO Story with Jamie Phillips Today I’m chatting with Jamie Phillips, founder of Yeseco , creator of the magnetic dish brush that completely changed the way thousands of people deal with their sink situation. His journey? Wild. Beautiful. Painful. Product-founder AF. Jamie takes us through everything, including: • the moment on a remote beach in Indonesia that changed his entire career • why his first eco-friendly range worked but also didn’t work • the messy truth of manufacturing a brand-new invention • how he used Kickstarter to validate demand AND fund a very expensive mold process • what 12,000+ customers taught him about product design • why retail and DTC must work together (and how he balances both) • his big mistakes, biggest lessons, and why perseverance beats everything • what launching Version 2 looks like (spoiler: it’s live now) Jamie is honest, generous, and gives you a real look at what actual product development looks like behind the scenes. If you’re a maker, product founder, wholesaler or inventor, you’ll want to take notes. LINKS: 👉 Explore YesECO: https://yeseco.life 👉 Support the YesECO V2 Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/yeseco/yeseco-v2 👉 Follow me on Instagram: @thelotco If you want to build a profitable product business you LOVE (without the burnout and chaos), come join me inside my Roadmap to Profit program. Details at thelotco.com.au. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail You’ve landed your dream retailer. Your products are on the shelf. Now what? Most brands think their job is done once they’ve been stocked, but that’s just the beginning. In this episode, I break down the three stages of post-delivery success that turn a one-off wholesale order into consistent reorders (and loyal retail partners who sell your products for you). You’ll Learn: ✨ Why getting stocked is just the start line , not the finish line ✨ How to support your retailers with marketing assets, education, and storytelling tools ✨ Simple ways to drive foot traffic and visibility for your stockists (without hurting your own online sales) ✨ How to build lasting relationships with buyers and retail staff that lead to repeat orders ✨ Why scarcity thinking is holding your brand back and how abundance thinking grows both sides Mentioned in this Episode: Transform Your Wholesale Program : Learn how to get stocked (and stay stocked!) → thelotco.com.au/wholesale Free Wholesale Guide : Download your free copy →here https://thelotco.myflodesk.com/wholesaletips Book Mentioned: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara Roadmap to Profit Program waitlist is here. Join my Product Business Growth Club here. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail Welcome back to thelotco Business Podcast, I’m Melissa Robbins, your product-based business coach, retail strategist, and founder of thelotco. After 25 years in the industry, I’ve seen behind the scenes of hundreds of brands and retailers and here’s what I know for sure: if your sales aren’t where you want them to be, it’s not your product. Last week, we talked about why your product probably isn’t the problem when sales feel slow. This week, we’re talking about the fix. Because if you’re showing up online, posting Reels, and doing “all the right things,” but your sales still feel unpredictable it’s not because you’re bad at business. It’s because you’re relying on the wrong system. In this episode, I dive into: Why Instagram is amazing for attention, but terrible for consistent sales The difference between visibility and conversion Why email marketing is your secret weapon for predictable profit How to set up simple systems that sell for you (even while you sleep) I’ll also share stories from real founders who went from slow weeks to steady sales — all by turning email into their most profitable channel. And I share real client stories of what changed when they shifted from posting more to building smarter systems . If you’re ready to stop relying on algorithms and start building consistent, reliable sales this episode is your next step. 🎧 Tune in now and grab your freebie: 15 Ways to Drive Traffic to Your Website . And if you’re ready to make email your most profitable sales channel, join me for the Nail Your Email Marketing — Details at thelotco.com.au/nailyouremail Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail If you’ve ever said, “My product is so good… why isn’t it selling?” then this episode is for you. I’ve been getting message after message about this one since I sent an email earlier in the week, so I knew I had to dive deeper on the podcast. The thing is, having a great product isn’t enough anymore. You need attention , anticipation , and action to turn your product into consistent sales. In this episode, I’m breaking down: Why your amazing product isn’t selling (and what to do about it) The Product Attachment Loop that keeps founders stuck How to shift your mindset from “selling is pushy” to “selling is helping” What “building anticipation” actually looks like before a new launch Why showing up across multiple platforms matters more than ever And how clarity, confidence, and consistency create conversions Whether you’re a maker, brand founder, or retailer, this episode will help you step out from behind the scenes, sell unapologetically, and start marketing your product like a pro. Because your business needs more than a beautiful product, it needs visibility, storytelling, and you showing up again and again until people finally get how brilliant your offer is. What You’ll Learn: ✨ How to stop perfecting and start promoting ✨ How to sell without feeling salesy or pushy ✨ How to build anticipation and momentum before your next launch ✨ How to multiply your reach by showing up in more than one place ✨ Why visibility builds trust and trust builds sales Mentioned in this episode: Get More Sales — my special bundle to help you show up in more ways and sell with confidence The Product Business Growth Club — my membership for ongoing support, ideas, and accountability DM me “sales” on Instagram @thelotco to get my free Sales Clarity Prompts Take Action: After you listen, screenshot this episode and tag me @thelotco Tell me — what’s one way you’re going to show up and sell differently this week? Let’s make your next product drop your most profitable one yet 💜 Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of my 20+ year journey with Life Instyle — from exhibiting her own kidswear brand Moppit , to becoming a buyer, educator, speaker, sponsor, and now judge for the Life Instyle New Breed Scholarship . How we helped shape the Kids Instyle section, the lessons learned from decades in the trade show world, and the incredible opportunities that open up when you take action — even before you feel ready. If you’re a product-based founder with big dreams of getting your products into stores, this episode will inspire you to stop waiting for the “perfect time” and start applying for the opportunities that could change your business forever. You’ll Learn: How trade shows like Life Instyle can transform a product business The story behind the Kids Instyle section and my 20-year involvement Why you should apply for the Life Instyle New Breed Scholarship (and how to know if you’re eligible) What judges are actually looking for in applicants The biggest mindset shift that separates brands that grow from those that stay stuck Life Instyle New Breed Scholarship (Applications close October 16th) → Prize includes a $10,000 value stand, exposure, mentorship, and more. Export Development Grant and other government funding options for product-based businesses Links & Resources: Apply for the Life Instyle Scholarship here. Learn more about wholesale with my free training: thelotco.com/buildingawholesalesalemachine Join the Product Business Growth Club for mentorship + support Explore the Roadmap to Profit Program to grow your product business to consistent $50K months Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail A Melbourne winter. A real gap in kids’ wool headwear. A founder with a finance brain and a product heart. That is how Acorn Kids began. In this episode, Fiona Savaris shares how a winter beanie line turned into a year-round headwear brand that stockists love, why wholesale still wins for volume, and how she just launched swimwear by leveraging prints, suppliers, and existing demand. If you care about cash flow , indent , stockist relationships , and direct-to-consumer growth , you will love this founder story. Learn how to use indent orders to protect margins and place smarter production bets See how a wholesale-first strategy can fuel longevity and repeat stockist revenue Steal the exact assets that help retailers sell more hats, beanies, and swim hats Hear the behind-the-scenes of a category expansion into swimwear that makes sense SEO keyword highlights Acorn Kids, kids hats, children’s headwear, beanies, swim hats, swimwear launch, wholesale, stockists, indent orders, Brandboom, Klaviyo email marketing, Meta ads, product photography, lifestyle imagery, cash flow, margins, MOQ, category expansion, trade shows, agents, DTC growth, Melbourne brand, Brunswick production. Top takeaways Play the long game with wholesale. Protect full price windows. Communicate. Make reorders easy. Indent = clarity. Use retailer orders to decide production and where to “back” winners. Be specialist. Headwear-specific makers and equipment show up in quality and fit. Add categories with purpose. Swim hats → swimwear leveraged prints, fabric, and brand equity. Invest in assets. Great photography and video Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail Your product might be beautiful, high-quality, and everything your customer needs… but here’s the truth: that alone isn’t enough to grow a profitable business. In this episode, I’m diving into the mistake so many founders make, putting 99% of their energy into the product itself and forgetting the bigger picture. Because while your product matters, what matters more is how you get it into people’s hands. We’ll cover: Why “build it and they will come” is a dangerous mindset for product-based founders The role of retailers, stockists, and partners in helping you grow The power of distribution and getting your product in front of more people Why supporting your stores and stockists is just as important as landing them in the first place The shift second-time founders make that first-time founders overlook What else matters more than the product itself (pricing, marketing, visibility, and customer experience) By the end, you’ll know exactly where to shift your focus so your product doesn’t just sit pretty on a shelf - it actually sells. ✨ Free Training Alert: Want to build a 90-day roadmap for more sales and consistent profit (without relying on social media)? Join my upcoming live training here → https://www.thelotco.com/trainings Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail What if one partnership could change your entire brand trajectory? Meet Vania Truchsess —Venezuelan-born, New Zealand-based jewelry designer whose handmade pieces landed in Karen Walker stores and unlocked a flywheel of credibility, stockists, and DTC growth. In this episode, we cover: How Vania went from babysitting to building a handmade jewelry label in NZ Why wholesale increased her direct-to-consumer sales (not the opposite) Pricing, margins, and range editing (and why you must revisit them yearly) Trade shows as a one-good-stockist play (LTV thinking > vanity order counts) Using markets, email (Flodesk), and workshops to fuel DTC demand Collaborations that borrow audiences and build brand equity Balancing creativity with cash flow, admin, and sustainable routines The mindset that keeps her shipping: perseverance (and a bracelet to prove it). SAVE YOUR SPOT IN MY NEW FREE LIVE TRAINING HERE: https://www.thelotco.com/trainings Vania Truchsess is the founder of Vania , a handmade jewellery brand inspired by nature and gemstones. Her ranges span everyday unisex pieces to woven “Daydreamer” earrings and gemstone necklaces using freshwater pearls and 14k gold-filled elements. Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Vania + what the brand stands for 02:20 Early making roots in Venezuela + family influences 04:45 Markets, morphing to the Kiwi aesthetic, and first “real job” detour 08:30 Range, pricing, and staying differentiated in a saturated category 09:50 The Karen Walker moment—and how credibility compounds 12:40 Why wholesale boosts DTC (yes, really) 14:50 Seasonality, Australia expansion, and realistic timelines for conversion 16:45 Trade shows: playing the long LTV game 18:20 DTC levers: email, paid/organic, markets, and beading workshops 21:10 Risks, bulk buying, duties, and owning what you do 27:40 What success looks like beyond revenue (impact stories that matter) 32:10 Evolving into fine jewelry; skills, vision, and authenticity 34:00 Creative vs. CEO time: routines and grace over perfection 41:20 Long-term partners > one-night collabs 43:15 Final advice: perseverance + smart risk Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail Andrew from Mennie Brand is back for part two, and we’re cracking open the real trade show debrief from his first time exhibiting at Melbourne Life Instyle . We talk expectations vs reality, what actually moved the needle (hello, SMS follow-ups), and why visuals + storytelling at your stand matter more than you think. Andrew shares hard numbers, how he organised setup on a budget (including the furniture plot twist), and what he’s changing next time to turn browsers into buyers faster. In this episode: The honest verdict: pride, perspective, and the big-brand imposter syndrome that didn’t stick The rollercoaster after the show (and why day-10 texts lit everything up) Why your pitch + story need reps (and how to avoid sounding “salesy”) Stand strategy: show the brand world (lookbook, lifestyle shots, POS) not just products Relationship ROI you can’t quantify: neighbours, buyers, and in-person feedback Logistics on a budget: flying with stock, painting the stand, marketplace furniture backup plan What’s next: considering Sydney (Feb) where Life & Style and Reed combine—and how different buyers = fresh opportunities Collabs & customs: ~200 unit MOQs with options to split across brands Mentions & resources: Book: Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller Find Andrew: Instagram @menniebrand | Stockist & custom enquiries Want help planning your own show? Check out my Trade Show Bootcamp and Wholesale program . Retailers: want the comfiest socks your customers will rave about? Reach out to @menniebrand for stockist info or custom collabs. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail Abundance Mindset Isn’t Woo — It’s Your Business Superpower Is “abundance” just another fluffy buzzword? Nope. In fact, your mindset may be the difference between giving up on your product business too soon or building one that actually pays you. In this episode, I’m breaking down: What abundance mindset really means (hint: it’s not about ignoring reality). The difference between abundance vs. scarcity thinking — and how each shows up in your day-to-day business. Real examples from launches, wholesale pitching, and sales that prove why scarcity spirals kill momentum. Practical tools to rewire your thinking — journal prompts, affirmations, gratitude practices, and the “not yet” reframe. Why combining mindset + numbers (aka your data) gives you clarity, stamina, and resilience when sales feel slow. If you’ve ever found yourself refreshing your Shopify dashboard on repeat, comparing yourself to competitors, or assuming “no one wants this,” this episode is for you. 👉 Grab my free Abundance Mindset Journal Prompts + Affirmations here , and stay tuned for the upcoming 30-Day Abundance Challenge. Because mindset alone isn’t enough. Mindset + strategy is how you build a profitable product business that lasts. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail If you’ve ever felt like freight is a dark art shrouded in mystery, you’re not alone. In this episode of t helotco Business Podcast , I sit down with Christine Kanin from Pivot Freight Solutions to unpack (pun intended) the real world of freight and logistics and why getting it right can save your product business thousands of dollars (and a whole lot of headaches). Christine has over a decade in the freight forwarding industry, helping small and medium-sized businesses confidently navigate the messy, unpredictable world of importing and exporting. She’s here to pull back the curtain on what really happens between “my product is ready” and “it’s on my doorstep.” We cover: The biggest misconceptions product-based businesses have about freight Why relying solely on your supplier’s shipping quote can be an expensive mistake The acronyms and terms (like Inco terms and HS codes) every founder must know before signing anything The real process your goods go through — from packing at the factory to clearing customs and quarantine in Australia How to decide between sea freight, air freight, and couriers (and the hidden cost traps in each) Landed costs: what they are, how to calculate them, and why they should guide your pricing from day one Seasonal and global events that can blow your shipping timelines out of the water (literally) Christine’s unique “She Freights” tours to India, helping women find manufacturers and products while learning the freight side from the ground up Whether you’re placing your very first order with an overseas supplier or managing multiple containers a year, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you stay in control, protect your margins, and avoid costly surprises. 📦 Listen in to finally get freight and logistics off your “too hard” list — and onto your “nailed it” list. Resources & Links Mentioned: Pivot Freight Solutions → find here She Freights Tours → here Austrade Go Global Toolkit → here BICON (Biosecurity Import Conditions System) → here If freight has been one of those “I’ll deal with it later” areas in your business, now’s the time. Hit play, take notes, and share this with another product founder who’s ever had a container delayed, a shipment cost double, or a customs surprise. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I’m giving you the ultimate insider scoop from the recent Australian trade show circuit Life Instyle, Reed Gift Fairs, and AGHA. Whether you were there, thinking about exhibiting next time, or wondering what the heck goes on behind those branded stands, this one’s for you. From the buzz on the floor and real sales numbers, to the unexpected brand collaborations and cringe-worthy mistakes I saw some newbies make—I'm breaking it all down. I’ll talk about what really makes a trade show successful (spoiler: it’s not just the orders), the importance of shelf-ready packaging and smart starter packs, and why connection not just conversion is your secret weapon. I also dive into the question I get asked all the time: Which show should I do? Life Instyle vs. Reed vs. AGHAvand the truth about what suits who. If you’re a brand looking to grow through wholesale or a retailer wondering how to make smarter buying decisions, this episode is packed with gold. Think of it like your own private trade show debrief, minus the sore feet and overpriced food. What I cover: The real results exhibitors experienced. Common mistakes I saw brands make (and how to avoid them) How to make your booth unforgettable (even upstairs!) Why shelf-ready packaging and starter packs are non-negotiables The unquantifiable wins—like friendships, packaging hacks, and collabs A comparison between Life Instyle, Reed, and AGHA shows Why showing up is more than just standing at a booth Bonus tip: If you're prepping for your first (or next) trade show, I share how to turn this opportunity into long-term revenue—and how to avoid becoming the brand that buyers forget the minute they walk away. Mentioned in this episode: Trade Show Bootcamp – My mini-course to help you prep, pitch and profit from your next show Transform Your Wholesale Program – Learn how to build a wholesale strategy that works long-term ✨ Product Business Growth Club – My membership for product-based businesses that want to grow without burning out Rate & Review: Enjoying the podcast? Leave a review and tell me what your biggest takeaway was from this episode! Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail Let’s talk about one of the most underrated, powerful tools in your business toolkit REVIEWS. They cost you nothing but can absolutely skyrocket your credibility and sales. And yet… so many of you forget to ask for them, or don’t know how to use them to their full potential. Sound familiar? In this episode, I’m diving into: Why reviews are way more powerful than any marketing copy you could write yourself How they boost your website conversions, SEO, and even wholesale success The exact tools I recommend to automate the whole process (no awkward follow-ups needed) Where to put reviews on your website to maximise their impact Clever ways to ask for them (without sounding desperate or robotic) And why YOU need to be giving reviews too—not just asking for them! Whether you’re selling direct-to-consumer, through retail stores, or wholesaling to stockists, reviews matter. And if you’re not collecting them (and using them!) you’re leaving money and trust on the table. 🛠 Tools I mention in the episode: Trustpilot Judge.me Loox (perfect for visual reviews with customer pics) Stamped.io Yotpo Google Forms for post-program feedback 💬 Quick reminder: If you’ve ever listened to an episode and thought “Omg that helped so much,” please scroll down in Apple Podcasts and leave a review. It means the world to me and keeps this podcast going. Plus, I read every single one! 🎯 This episode is for you if: → You’re running a product-based brand or retail store → You want to build trust fast and boost your online sales → You need better copy but don’t have time to write it—use your customer words instead! Let’s get those reviews working for you. Take 30 seconds to scroll down and leave a review on Apple Podcasts—it’s free for you and priceless for me! Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail In this raw and refreshing episode of thelotco Business Podcast, I chat with Lucy Moss founder of Mink and Me, a vibrant lifestyle brand that blossomed from a tiny rural shop into a bold online store and now a budding wholesale business. Lucy shares her incredible 10-year journey, starting from a collaborative store in Coonamble (yep, population 2,500!) to navigating ADHD diagnosis, burnout, a booming Christmas season, a massive pivot, and a spontaneous buying trip to India that changed everything. We unpack: How her dog’s name (RIP Minky!) sparked a business name and legacy The power of collaboration and building a retail hub in a small town What she learned from buying “dud” products and how she refined her retail buying over time Why selling 760 Queen Elizabeth Christmas decorations was a pivotal moment (yes, really!) How burnout led her to hit pause and what that looked like Her candid experience with an ADHD diagnosis and what changed afterward The unexpected decision to close her physical store (despite strong sales) and go all in on online Why her India trade show trip with Christine from She.Freights opened a whole new wholesale opportunity Her advice for evolving with your business, listening to your gut, and not being afraid to pivot Lucy gets real about the highs and lows, from toddler chaos to trade show prep, and gives insight into what it truly takes to stay resilient, creative, and profitable in today’s retail and product landscape. Links + Resources: Follow Lucy at @minkandme Check out her online store: minkandme.com.au Want to prep for your own trade show? Grab the Trade Show Bootcamp Listen to more episodes at thelotco Business Podcast If this episode sparked an “OMG I need to pivot too” moment or you’ve been toying with launching wholesale or shutting your physical store send me a DM @thelotco . Lucy’s story is proof you don’t have to stick to one version of success. You get to evolve. ✨ Be sure to subscribe, share this with your biz bestie, and leave a review if this episode hit home. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail If you’re still shipping your gorgeous product in a plain satchel with an invoice and a whisper of bubble wrap… we need to talk. In today’s episode of The Lotco Business Podcast, I’m diving into one of the most underestimated but high-impact opportunities you have as a product-based business owner: the unboxing experience . Your packaging isn’t just about protection—it’s about emotion . It’s a brand moment. It’s the post-purchase piece that turns a one-time buyer into a raving, repeat customer. In this episode, I’ll walk you through: Why unboxing taps into psychology (and how TikTok + YouTube prove it) The difference between packaging that gets ignored… and packaging that gets shared Low-cost, high-impact ways to elevate your unboxing experience—even if you're on a tight budget Real brand examples (including my own past retail experience!) that prove small touches create big impact A mindset shift: why every box you ship is a chance to build brand trust and customer retention Plus, I share: A Pinterest board with creative and scroll-stopping packaging ideas https://pin.it/2oz5v2iY6 Why packaging is performative marketing in a scroll-happy world How to spark emotion through scent, stickers, samples, surprise, and story Whether you're a new brand or scaling rapidly, don’t underestimate this part of the customer journey. Because once they click “Buy Now,” it’s your moment to turn excitement into loyalty. Want more help mapping your entire customer journey from attraction to unboxing to retention? Come join me in Roadmap to Profit or grab the Get More Sales Bundle for actionable tools you can implement right away. Because every order you send out is a branding opportunity. Let’s make it magic. Unboxing Pinterest Board here Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really builds a thriving, profitable product-based business—and spoiler alert—it’s not just more Instagram reels or new packaging. After decades in this industry, from fashion lecturer to founder, and coaching hundreds of creative entrepreneurs through my Roadmap to Profit program, I’ve identified the 7 key systems that separate profitable brands from the ones stuck in hustle-mode. I call it t helotco Method , and today I'm sharing each of these systems with you—including how you can spot your weakest link and what to fix first. You'll learn: Why vision (not just vibes) is the first system to set up What your brand really needs beyond a cute logo How pricing can make or break your entire business (even if your products are selling) Why relying on just one sales channel is risky How to attract traffic without burning out on content creation What numbers you actually need to know And the often-forgotten system that allows you to finally take a break (yes, really) These are the systems that have helped my clients go from kitchen-table businesses to stocked-in-store and scaling with ease. If you’re done flying by the seat of your pants and ready to build something that actually pays you—this is for you. 🎧 Listen now and DM me @thelotco to tell me which system you're focusing on first. ✨ Want the full roadmap? My Roadmap to Profit program is now open—get access to the templates, coaching, and tools that help you build all 7 systems, without the overwhelm. 👉 FIND OUT MORE HERE 📚 Plus: Don’t forget to grab my free training: “ How to Build a Thriving Product Business” 00:00 Introduction to Growing Your Product Business 00:46 The Seven Systems for a Profitable Business 02:19 System 1: Vision and Goals 03:59 System 2: Brand Foundations 05:27 System 3: Product and Pricing 06:51 System 4: Sales Channels 08:27 System 5: Marketing and Traffic 09:51 System 6: Money Management 11:38 System 7: Systems and Support 12:38 Conclusion and Next Steps Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, I’m joined by Andrew from Mennie Brand—an art-inspired sock label that’s grown from humble garage beginnings to a wholesale brand with over 30 stockists and counting. We recorded this before Andrew exhibits at his first-ever trade show: Life Instyle Melbourne . And let me tell you—we go deep on what it really takes (financially, mentally, and logistically) to step into this space for the first time. You’ll hear: Andrew’s full cost breakdown for exhibiting at Life Instyle. How he’s preparing marketing materials, samples, and stand design with a super lean budget Why building strong relationships with current stockists has created surprising trade show support The fears, confidence wobbles, and smart choices that led him to say “now’s the time” His expectations for orders, ROI, and post-show follow-up strategies If you’ve been tossing up whether a trade show is worth it for your brand—or wondering how on earth to pull it off without a giant team—this is the episode for you. And don’t worry, we’ll be back with Part 2 to hear how it all went! 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: Mennie Brand → menniebrand.com Life Instyle Melbourne → lifeinstyle.com.au Access the 3 part Trade Show Bootcamp here. Support the show I'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Join my Skool Group here: https://www.skool.com/product-business-growth-club/about From not enough sales to effortless abundance and creating consistent sales in your business with this roadmap. Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/ Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand. Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands). Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.