The Quiet Builders

Future Commerce Podcast: eCommerce, DTC and Retail Strategy

eCommerce is in need of a deconstructionist movement. Brands should question the norms of their behaviors and their beliefs of “best practices,” but we don’t always take time to reflect.

In this episode, Phillip and Brian explore the nature of deconstructionism, why eCommerce is due for a deconstructionist movement, the quiet builders in our space, and the influence of artists in our space. Listen now!

Building the Future

• An eCommerce deconstructionist movement is needed where we question our norms and we question our beliefs and why we do the things we do
• People who build the future do things that haven't been done yet.
• “If you want to build a pretty successful brand using only best-practices, go for it. But if you want to build the future, you have to do things that have never been done.” - Phillip
• “In reality, the thing that is differentiating you is your efficiency in your ability to build something new, not to reinvent the thing that already exists.” - Phillip
• “You can build a successful business without questioning things. You're just never going to be a front-runner.” - Brian
• If you can’t question why and what you’re doing as a brand, then maybe you shouldn’t exist as a brand
• Like Ju Rhyu who “quietly built” to her huge success, there are many out there who are quietly building
• It’s interesting to learn what inspires your heroes, especially when their heroes are people you’ve not even heard of before (Phillip and Brian have some intriguing examples of who has inspired them)
• “I think that fiction writers and musicians are infinitely more effective than nonfiction writers. I believe in the power of story and the power of mediums that can convey more than one meaning at once. I believe in multi-dimensional thinking.” - Brian
• “In the future, there are a scant few who actually can create an impact and emotional resonance and shape the way that customers' desires pull other parts of the industry forward. They are artists in their own right.” - Phillip

Associated Links:

• Phillip recommends Dirt and Blackbird Spyplane as two publications to check out and enjoy
• Brian recommends listening to Acquired.fm’s episode on the history of Amazon (buckle up because it’s four hours)
• Subscribe to Insiders and Senses to read more of our hot takes!
• Download VISIONS 2022 NOW!
• Listen to our other episodes of Future Commerce
• Check out Decoded, our newest limited series

Have any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on Futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners!