EP333 - Jason Del Rey The Aisle

http://jasonandscot.com

Welcome back to the Jason and Scot Show, where we celebrate episode 333 with a truly special guest. Recorded on Thursday, November 19th, this episode features Jason Del Rey, a prominent e-commerce journalist and the author of the acclaimed book, *Winner Sells All: Amazon, Walmart, and the Battle for Our Wallets*. Jason is launching a new paid newsleter about AI era of commerce "The Aisle." With a staggering combined history of over 30 years between Jason Goldberg, Scot Wingo, and Del Rey, this conversation dives deep into the evolving world of commerce and the exciting new venture that Del Rey is embarking upon.

Kicking off the episode, Jason G and Scot share their long history with Del Rey, discussing his illustrious career covering e-commerce for major publications like Inc. Magazine, Ad Age, and Fortune. They reminisce about Del Rey's past appearances on their show (episodes 67 and 183) and set the stage for his latest project, an independent media company called "The Aisle." Del Rey recounts his trajectory into the e-commerce world, starting from covering digital media companies at Ad Age to eventually becoming an Amazon expert while working under media icons Walt Mossberg and Kara Swisher at All Things D.

Del Rey reflects on his experiences as a journalist, highlighting his strong relationships with leading figures in the retail space, including interviews with Jeff Bezos, Doug McMillan, and Mark Lurie. He discusses the events he hosted—particularly the Code Commerce series—where he connected influential retail CEOs and tech leaders. As the conversation progresses, Jason G and Scot delve into Del Rey's motives for launching The Aisle, underscoring both personal and professional motivations. Del Rey candidly shares his views on mortality and the urgency to pursue one's passions, a perspective deepened by the early loss of family members and friends.

Transitioning into the specifics of his new venture, Del Rey reveals that The Aisle will cover the future of commerce through the lens of AI and technology. He outlines his plans for a paid subscription newsletter focusing on everything from product discovery and conversational commerce trends to disruptive changes in online advertising. With features like intimate dinner events designed to foster candid dialogue among industry leaders, Del Rey aims to create a community that engages deeply with the evolving landscape of commerce.

Listeners also learn about The Aisle's structure, including tiers of membership which offer a variety of benefits, from exclusive newsletters to off-the-record consultations with Del Rey himself. As the discussion unfolds, Del Rey emphasizes his experience-based approach to journalism, believing that deeper connections with his audience will allow for richer reporting and analysis.

In a light-hearted exchange, the hosts discuss the nuances of conversational commerce and the evolving nature of how consumers interact with brands. Del Rey shares insights from his discussions with industry leaders, exploring the distinctions between textual and voice interactions in commerce. The guests speculate on the future of these trends, engaging in a spirited conversation about the balance between hype and genuine innovation in the AI commerce landscape.

Before closing the episode, Del Rey enthusiastically introduces listeners to his first interview for The Aisle, featuring John Collison, co-founder of Stripe, discussing the future of payments and commerce. The episode wraps up with Jason G and Scot reflecting on Del Rey's journey and the exciting future that lies ahead for him and The Aisle, inviting their listeners to engage with the new publication that promises to deliver valuable insights into the world of commerce.

As always, if you enjoy the show, consider subscribing and leaving a five-star review on iTunes. Join us next time for more engaging discussions about the future of commerce and technology!

Episode 333 of the Jason and Scot Show was recorded on Thursday, November 19th.

Join your hosts Jason "Retailgeek" Goldberg, Chief Commerce Strategy Officer at Publicis, and Scot Wingo, CEO of ReFiBuy and Co-Founder of ChannelAdvisor as they discuss the latest news and trends in the world of e-commerce and digital shopper marketing.