Building on this post, I like the point made at the end of the episode.

The experiences are different because Sam’s Club zagged to Costco’s zig.

It makes sense to not replicate what your chief competitor is doing but offer something different and distinct because you’ll appeal to a different segment of consumers.

Find value for your consumers that’s not just being the cheapest product available, because you’re never going to win that race

Give consumers are compelling reason to shop at your store and trust your brand

Do the same thing as everyone else and get worse results.


Sam’s Club has overtaken cult favorite Costco. At least when it comes to happy customers.

It’s done this by focusing on the customer experience.

Technology + convenience + value

Through the tech they’ve created a retail media network that blends seamlessly with the in-store experience.


we didn’t ban noisy aircraft we banned supersonic aircraft

Incentives matter and words matter.

Here, poor word choice disincentivized an entire industry.

Clarity of messaging helps align incentives.

via Alex Tabarrok


TV is now the primary device for YouTube viewing in the US.

and according to Nielsen, YouTube has been #1 in streaming watch time in the U.S. for two years

And Mr. Beast has more subscribers than Netflix.

YouTube is mass media via niche media.

via YouTube


As Seth said:

Discovery doesn’t just happen in the online store’s search box.

I would go further and say true discovery never happens in the search box.

Awareness and exposure—the precursors to intent—happen elsewhere. In the rhythms and routines of life separate from shopping.