Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Schwartz

Hi Brian, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

I was laid off four years ago from the digital advertising space in New York City during the height of the pandemic in 2020. Those were incredibly stressful times, going from earning six figures and being the household breadwinner to collecting unemployment and entering a nine-month mortgage forbearance. During this period, my wife was eight months pregnant, and my father was battling a terminal illness (he passed away in January 2021).

To keep my mind, body, and soul stimulated, I offered to help my elderly neighbors with socially distant, free landscaping. Initially, I didn’t think much of it, as neighbors often help each other. However, news coverage and other volunteers began to offer their assistance, and soon homeowners in need from across the USA were reaching out. This led to the creation of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, I Want to Mow Your Lawn Inc., aimed at creating a greater impact, reaching more people, and inspiring hope and action. It’s a timeless story to share, demonstrating that job loss, while stressful, can lead to new opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose.

During those unnerving times, with millions losing their jobs and seniors being most vulnerable to the virus, it felt like a perfect storm of events that resonated deeply with many. Everything seemed to fall into place at that moment in time. Perhaps in a parallel universe, where one of these events didn’t occur, none of this would have happened. From the job loss to the decision to take action and help others, it all led to where I am today.

Fast forward to today, we have a healthy, happy four-year-old toddler at home, and I am back to work in a full-time contract role. I’ve been with my current employer, a product manufacturing company called OraLabs based in Colorado, for nearly three years, handling their eCommerce advertising. They support my passion project, allowing me to continue running the nonprofit as time permits.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

It hasn’t been a smooth road. Balancing the demands of running a charity with a full-time job that pays the bills and being present for my family has been tough. There’s a lot on my shoulders at times, and I try to delegate when possible. The charity, I Want to Mow Your Lawn Inc., isn’t funded by any major sources, relying instead on occasional donations and grants to keep the lights on. Managing expectations about the services we provide and keeping volunteers engaged can be challenging. Despite these struggles, I find a greater purpose in the work, and we do what we can, when we can, to make a positive impact.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

I was brought on as the e-commerce director at OraLabs to help expand our advertising initiatives, particularly for our oral care division with esteemed licensors. We sell our products both in brick-and-mortar stores and online, primarily on Amazon, but also on platforms like Walmart and CVS.

In addition to working alongside an agency that assists with our Amazon paid initiatives, I am hands-on with advertising, regularly optimizing third-party channels to drive awareness, impressions, clicks, and online sales to our co-branded landing pages. Ultimately, we direct customers to retailer sites like Amazon to drive purchases directly. My advertising efforts span across Google, Microsoft search, display, video, Outbrain advertorials, and some social media channels like Instagram, and I’ve even dabbled in TikTok and influencer marketing.

While most of my time is spent on licensed deals, OraLabs has various divisions, and I contribute to other areas, including our in-house products and promotional items in both skin care and oral care. I’m grateful for OraLabs’ support in allowing me to work remotely.

A fun fact about my journey: I was away from the manufacturing industry for nearly 10-15 years. One of the products we currently advertise as a licensee is the Oral-B Nighttime Dental Guard, a product I initially worked on as a graphic designer and marketing coordinator when it was just a concept. It’s amazing to see it now on shelves and to be involved in a different aspect of the business as my career has evolved with the digital landscape.

I’m most proud of our ability to adapt and innovate in a constantly changing digital advertising environment, and the personal connection I have to some of the products we promote. What sets me apart is my hands-on approach, diverse skill set across various advertising platforms, and my ability to balance strategic oversight with detailed execution. This, combined with my commitment to our nonprofit, showcases my dedication to making a meaningful impact both professionally and personally.

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Certain trademarks used under license from The Procter & Gamble Company or its affiliates.

Distributed by OraLabs, Inc.,
Parker, CO 80134 USA

A Product Manufactured in the USA

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?

Over the next 5-10 years, I see several significant shifts and trends in the industry, particularly in e-commerce and manufacturing.

1. Increased Automation:
Automation will play a pivotal role in both manufacturing and e-commerce. In manufacturing, the use of advanced robotics and AI-driven automation will streamline production processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. This includes everything from automated assembly lines to smart warehouses where inventory management is handled by AI systems. In e-commerce, automation will enhance customer experience through personalized recommendations, chatbots for customer service, and automated order fulfillment systems.

2. Integration of AI and Machine Learning:
AI and machine learning will become even more integrated into various facets of the industry. Predictive analytics will help businesses forecast demand more accurately, optimize inventory levels, and personalize marketing efforts. Machine learning algorithms will improve ad targeting and customer segmentation, leading to more effective and efficient marketing strategies.

3. Sustainability and Ethical Practices:
Sustainability will be a major focus. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases. As a result, there will be a shift towards more sustainable manufacturing practices, such as using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and implementing energy-efficient processes. E-commerce companies will also need to consider the carbon footprint of their operations and look for ways to minimize it.

4. Omni-Channel Retailing:
The line between online and offline shopping will continue to blur. Omni-channel retailing, where customers can seamlessly switch between online and physical stores, will become more prevalent. Retailers will invest in creating cohesive and integrated shopping experiences, leveraging technology to ensure that customer interactions are consistent and personalized across all touchpoints.

5. Enhanced Consumer Experience:
The consumer experience will be further enhanced through the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). These technologies will allow customers to virtually try on products, visualize how items would look in their homes, and even experience virtual store environments. This immersive experience will help bridge the gap between online and in-store shopping.

6. Growth of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Brands:
Direct-to-consumer brands will continue to grow, bypassing traditional retail channels to connect directly with customers. This model allows for greater control over the brand experience, stronger customer relationships, and higher margins. E-commerce platforms will support this growth by offering tools and services tailored to the needs of DTC brands.

7. Advanced Data Analytics:
Data will be at the core of decision-making. Advanced data analytics will provide deeper insights into consumer behavior, market trends, and operational efficiency. Businesses will leverage big data to make more informed decisions, optimize their strategies, and gain a competitive edge.

Overall, the next decade will be marked by rapid technological advancements and a shift towards more efficient, sustainable, and customer-centric practices. As automation and AI become more integrated into both manufacturing and e-commerce, the industry will evolve to meet the changing needs and expectations of consumers.

Pricing:

• $19.48

Image Credits

Brian Schwartz