Navigating the unpredictable rapids of Amazon and Walmart marketplace selling, we had the pleasure of being joined by Lesley, a maestro with a flair for reviving online seller accounts from the depths of suspension. In our conversation, we uncover the labyrinth of issues that can snag unsuspecting sellers, from the snares set by underhanded competitors to the resurgence of 'inauthentic' item flags. Lesley, drawing on her rich tapestry of experience that spans from journalism to digital marketplaces, guides us through the complexities of maintaining a pristine account on platforms like Amazon and Walmart, while also sharing her own transition from traditional business consulting to the fast-paced e-commerce arena.
The episode takes a turn into the shadowy alleys of the online marketplace, exposing the black hat tactics of less scrupulous sellers who resort to fraudulent reviews and other deceptive maneuvers to gain an edge. Stories of sabotage and extortion unfold, revealing the lengths to which some will go to undermine their competition and the sophisticated strategies Amazon employs to counter these threats. Lesley's insights prove invaluable for those looking to safeguard their ventures in this cutthroat environment, ensuring your business not only survives but thrives among the giants of the digital retail world.
 
In episode 528 of the Serious Sellers Podcast, Bradley and Lesley discuss:
00:00 - Strategies for Amazon Account Reinstatement & Protection
05:00 - Common Suspensions and Appeals on Walmart 
07:59 - Amazon KDP Issues and IP Theft 
11:10 - Amazon Account Suspensions and Prevention Tips
17:18 - More On Account Suspensions on Amazon
23:25 - Amazon TOS Compliance, Fraud, Extortion, and Black Hat Tactics
23:45 - Fake Orders and Amazon Locker Strategy 
34:20 - Lesley's New Book And The Importance of SOPs in Business