https://twitter.com/zachmstuck?s=20Welcome back to EcomGold, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of Ecommerce and entrepreneurship. In today's episode, we have a special guest Zach. Zach is a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Homestead, a growth marketing agency specializing in paid customer acquisition and retention. However, he has recently shifted his focus to brand building. Throughout the episode, Zach shares his experiences in securing financing for his various businesses and offers valuable insights on navigating the world of funding and inventory growth. From exploring traditional bank loans to leveraging personal connections, Zach sheds light on the challenges and successes of obtaining capital in an ever-evolving market. Join us as we uncover Zach's journey from building an agency empire to launching and acquiring resilient brands, all while striving for profitability and growth. Listen in as we uncover the highs and lows of Zach's entrepreneurial ventures and his plans for the future. [00:01:28] Ecommerce expert builds successful brands and agency.[00:06:55] Agency grows through referrals and inbound inquiries. Focus on quality work, creative retention. Unexpected growth led to team marketing. CEO steps down to focus on growth. Agency runs lean with profitable customer acquisition. Taking bets on multiple brands, aiming for revenue milestones. Plan to sell or foreclose underperforming brands.[00:14:16] Apparel brand growing, retail and wholesale challenges.[00:20:12] Difficult to get funding from fintech companies, so traditional bank loans were sought.[00:24:43] Lenders like historical data and storytelling to secure funds.[00:32:36] Growing agency services for new CrossFit brand.[00:35:20] Product focus, multiple use cases increase sales.[00:44:52] Variants, benefits, and simplicity: One product.[00:48:26] Focus on Hero product, add-ons optional.[00:54:36] Keep margins high, test pricing and shipping.[01:01:59] Testing offers and website optimization key for success.Get show alerts and playbooks by signing up on the EcomGold website: www.ecom.goldClaim an extended free trial as a show listener.EcomGold is brought to you by:‍Rewind Shopify App.Back up your Shopify store because not doing so is absolute lunacy! As a listener of the show, you can claim a no strings attached free month with this link: https://rewind.com/ecommercegold/Sendlane.Unified email, SMS, and reviews for eCommerce. Better features. Better support. Better customer experience. Send your customers exactly what they want, when they want it. (Better than Klaviyo in Finn's opinion). https://www.sendlane.com/Follow Finn on Twitter: https://twitter.com/finn_radfordGet show alerts and playbooks by signing up on the EcomGold website: www.ecom.goldClaim an extended free trial as a show listener.EcomGold is brought to you by:‍Rewind Shopify App.Back up your Shopify store because not doing so is absolute lunacy! As a listener of the show, you can claim a no strings attached free month with this link: https://rewind.com/ecommercegold/Sendlane.Unified email, SMS, and reviews for eCommerce. Better features. Better support. Better customer experience. Send your customers exactly what they want, when they want it. (Better than Klaviyo in Finn's opinion). https://www.sendlane.com/Follow Finn on Twitter: https://twitter.com/finn_radford