How do you cultivate a retail business that nurtures both customers and community? Liz Ferreira, owner of The Sweet Bay Shop, shares her journey of taking over her mother’s store and shaping it into a space that brings joy—both through plants and meaningful relationships. In this episode, Liz dives into the privilege of retail, the power of understanding your market, and how she balances family life with running a successful business. Whether you're a retailer, plant lover, or entrepreneur, ther...
Apr 06, 2025•27 min•Ep. 173
Trust is everything in the collectibles industry—whether you're buying, selling, or running a multi-location business. In this episode of Retail Therapy, we dive into how Jimmy and Jonathan built Roadshow Cards into a trusted, coast-to-coast brand that’s redefining the card-collecting experience. With four stores in four different states, their biggest challenge isn’t just growth—it’s consistency. How do you ensure every customer has the same great experience? How do you build a strong leadershi...
Apr 03, 2025•56 min•Ep. 172
Understanding the impact of screen time and social media usage is essential for businesses to target their audience effectively. In this episode of After the Show, we explore key strategies to capture mindshare and wallet share across generations. From pricing strategies to platform usage, we break down how to leverage digital trends to boost engagement and drive sales. [0:33] Pricing strategies and tips to maximize revenue [1:28] Understanding mindshare vs. wallet share [3:10] Insights on Ameri...
Apr 01, 2025•15 min•Ep. 171
How do you turn your retail store into a must-visit destination? In this episode, Mary Liz Curtin, co-founder of Leon & Lulu, shares her expert insights on creating unforgettable customer experiences, hosting successful events, and staying financially strong in the ever-changing retail landscape. Discover how to keep customers entertained, attract them to your events, and balance trends without losing your brand’s identity. Whether you’re a seasoned retailer or just starting, this episode is...
Mar 30, 2025•28 min•Ep. 170
A great product isn’t enough—your online presence matters just as much! In this After the Show segment, we’re diving into how retailers can use LinkedIn to stand out. From positioning yourself as a thought leader to generating leads, we’ll break down how to make the most of this powerful platform. If you want to elevate your brand and connect with the right audience, this episode is for you! [1:19] Focusing on what you can control [2:54] Viewing retail through a tech company lens [4:21] The unta...
Mar 25, 2025•17 min•Ep. 169
Is your retail business equipped to stand out in today’s competitive market? In this episode, Warren Shoulberg shares expert insights on how independent retailers can adapt, stay relevant, and grow. Learn how to identify key retail trends, simplify e-commerce, and take inspiration from big-box stores—without losing your unique identity and customer experience. If you’re looking for actionable strategies to future-proof your retail business, this episode is for you! [1:12] About Warren Shoulberg ...
Mar 23, 2025•32 min•Ep. 168
Running a business isn’t just about making sales—it’s about making smart financial decisions and setting yourself up for long-term success. In this episode, retailer Kayla Albrecht and therapist Kareen dive into the emotional and financial aspects of entrepreneurship, from compensating yourself properly to setting boundaries between work and home life. Kayla shares her experience as both a business owner and operator, breaking down the challenges of paying yourself while growing your business. K...
Mar 20, 2025•41 min•Ep. 167
A great product isn’t enough—your store experience needs to be just as exciting! In this After the Show segment, we’re exploring how to inject fun into retail spaces. From interactive games to small moments of surprise, we’ll share creative ways to engage customers and make shopping unforgettable. If you want to turn your store into a destination, this episode is for you. [2:14] Stepping into a new environment to spark fresh ideas [6:01] Understanding what fun looks like for your customers [8:30...
Mar 18, 2025•17 min•Ep. 166
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- Running a retail store is more than just transactions—it’s about creating experiences that keep both customers and employees engaged. In this episode of Rooted in Retail we are joined by Bryan Gaus and Anthony DiAmbrosio of American Dream as we explore how to balance business operations with a fun, vibrant culture that makes your store a place people love to be. [9:26] How to embed fun into daily operations [11:11] Keeping things fresh...
Mar 16, 2025•40 min•Ep. 165
Success isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable when you align with the right mindset and actions. In this episode, we’re breaking down why your brain can’t fully grasp the level of success you’re capable of and how to step into that reality. From making tough decisions as a business owner to understanding the power of pruning for growth, this conversation will help you trust the process and recognize the clues guiding you forward. [1:53] Your brain can’t imagine the type of success waiting for you ...
Mar 11, 2025•15 min•Ep. 164
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- In this episode of Rooted in Retail, we dive into what it takes to build a million-dollar store. Our returning guest Heidi Hardman shares how being obsessed with your products and truly understanding your customers can set you apart. Learn how to overcome challenges, become “15-mile famous,” and create a thriving retail business that keeps customers coming back. [2:25] The journey to building a million-dollar store [6:47] Why obsession...
Mar 09, 2025•28 min•Ep. 163
Running a dance studio takes more than just a love for movement—it requires strategy, discipline, and smart decision-making. In this episode, Rose Kishner, owner of SF Dance Gear, shares how she applies structured planning and business mastery to keep her store thriving. Rose opens up about the behind-the-scenes challenges of managing a dance business, from handling operations to making strategic financial decisions. She explains how the *Rapid Planning Method* has helped her stay focused, why m...
Mar 07, 2025•43 min•Ep. 162
Loving your product isn’t enough—your customer needs to love it too. In this After the Show segment, we’re diving into what it takes to truly connect with your audience. From the three-second rule to spotting emotional touchpoints, we’ll cover practical ways to see your business through your customer’s eyes. If you want to create a frictionless experience and build deeper relationships with your customers, this episode is for you. [1:11] Why your passion doesn’t guarantee customer love [1:46] Th...
Mar 04, 2025•16 min•Ep. 161
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- It’s a special episode as Rooted in Retail celebrates its 2nd anniversary! Joining us is Ginny Carosso from Port Gamble General Store, a seasoned retail expert with a degree in Retail Business and extensive experience in curating product assortments. Ginny shares her insights on understanding customers, gathering data, and creating a brand experience that feels like home. Plus, we dive into the balance between physical and online store...
Mar 02, 2025•34 min•Ep. 160
Success in retail isn’t a solo journey—it’s built on relationships, mentorship, and an abundance mindset. In this After the Show segment, we’re diving into why collaboration is key to growth. We'll break down how to shift away from a scarcity mindset, embrace opportunities to work with others, and confidently reach out for support. If you’ve ever hesitated to ask for help or felt like you’re in it alone, this episode will remind you that success is a team effort. [01:05] Why collaboration and me...
Feb 25, 2025•14 min•Ep. 159
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- In this episode, retail expert Bob Negen from WhizBang! Retail Training shares the essential role employee training plays in building a thriving retail business. With decades of experience, Bob dives into what makes training a game-changer, how to implement a program that sticks, and the secret to completing any project. Learn how to keep your customers top-of-mind while boosting team performance. [3:30] Introduction to Bob Negen [8:53...
Feb 23, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 158
Running a successful business goes beyond day-to-day operations—it’s about leadership, vision, and leveraging the right frameworks to scale. In today’s episode, we’re joined by Maureen and business strategist/therapist Kareen Walsh to explore how to elevate your business and lead with purpose. Maureen shares her retail journey, from early successes to learning how to balance control and leadership after scaling her business. Kareen brings her expertise in conscious leadership and explains how us...
Feb 20, 2025•51 min•Ep. 157
Feeling creatively stuck? You’re not alone—but there are ways to reignite that spark. In this quick After the Show episode, we’ll explore three simple yet powerful methods to inspire creativity and bring new energy to your work. You’ll learn how to flip the script, embrace unexpected combinations, and dreamstorm your way to fresh ideas. These strategies will help you break free from limiting habits and take a bold approach to thinking outside the box. [2:00] How feeling like you need to be a cer...
Feb 18, 2025•19 min•Ep. 156
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- In this episode, Lisa Bach, a passionate leader in book publishing and the gift industry, shares insights on how retailers can boost their offerings with curated book collections. From her early retail days to becoming a leader in the book-gift community, Lisa reveals why books are the perfect addition to any store’s product mix. Discover key trends, how to cater to niche audiences like men’s gifting, and what makes certain books stand...
Feb 16, 2025•30 min•Ep. 155
Building a retail brand takes more than just hard work—it takes strategic planning and continuous investment in long-term success. In this After the Show segment, we dive into how you can shape your brand and budget effectively to set your business up for future growth. From smart financial planning to leveraging data for decision-making, this episode covers the core steps to take your retail brand to the next level. Plus, we’ll explore the importance of consistency and treating your brand like ...
Feb 11, 2025•18 min•Ep. 154
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- Tired of high sales but low profits? It’s time to flip the script. In this episode, retail finance expert Christyne Gray brings over 20 years of experience to help creative entrepreneurs master their money. Discover how to shift your focus from just growing revenue to maximizing profitability. Christyne breaks down the percentages you should be spending, shares common money mistakes retailers make, and introduces realistic revenue mapp...
Feb 09, 2025•47 min•Ep. 153
Running a business isn’t just about profits and products—it’s about purpose, passion, and, sometimes, pivoting when things don’t go as planned. In today’s Retail Therapy episode, we’re diving into all of that with two incredible guests: Andrea Spresser, a seasoned retailer, and Kareen Walsh, a business strategist and therapist. Andrea shares her journey of growing her store since 2009, tripling her revenue after relocating in 2019, and navigating the challenges when her manager retired. She’s no...
Feb 06, 2025•46 min•Ep. 152
Running a business means embracing both the highlights and the honest struggles. In this After the show episode, we explore the raw reality of entrepreneurship and discover practical ways to navigate through overwhelming moments. I’ll also help you realize that success in business isn't about maintaining a perfect facade – it's about embracing the journey, acknowledging challenges, and leading with authenticity. [1:50] Real talk after recording - facing business challenges head-on [4:37] Tacklin...
Feb 04, 2025•13 min•Ep. 151
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- Drowning in to-do lists? Your retail time management revolution starts here! Join powerhouse Fractional COO Colleen Carswell as she unlocks the vault of game-changing time hacks that transformed her 17-year hospitality career. From energy mapping to guilt-free productivity, discover why traditional time management is dead and what smart retailers are doing instead. Get ready to turn chaos into clarity and stress into success! [4:55] Ma...
Feb 02, 2025•38 min•Ep. 150
Retail spaces are more than just stores—they’re immersive experiences designed to captivate, inspire, and connect. In this After the Show segment, we dive into some of the most memorable store tour experiences and uncover what makes them stand out. From Dior’s breathtaking lighting to Sephora’s cutting-edge technology, and Hermes’ rooted design philosophy, these spaces show us how retail is evolving to create a sense of belonging and influence. Join me as we explore the power of thoughtful desig...
Jan 28, 2025•25 min•Ep. 149
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- Are you spending your time and energy on what really matters for your retail business? In this solo episode, Crystal Vilkaitis dives deep into the essentials of modern retail marketing, customer connection, and creating unforgettable in-store experiences. Crystal also shares inspiration from attending the National Retail Federation, offering fresh perspectives on customer service, team adaptability, and creating demand for your store t...
Jan 26, 2025•56 min•Ep. 148
Your business isn’t just a source of income—it’s an asset and a reflection of your vision. In this After the Show segment, I explore the power of exit planning and how setting clear goals can unlock opportunities and foster resilience. From understanding the importance of seeing your business as an asset to aligning daily actions with yearly objectives, this quick episode will help you think ahead and create a solid exit strategy. [0:41] Exit planning: Where to start [1:40] Curiosity, knowledge,...
Jan 21, 2025•13 min•Ep. 147
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- Ready to step away from your business and ensure its continued success? In this episode, fan favorite Pete Mohr returns to share essential insights on creating a solid exit strategy, building long-term value, and knowing when it’s time to let go. Tune in for expert advice on how to plan your exit while freeing yourself from the daily grind! [4:23] Pete’s retail journey recap [7:14] Why every business owner needs a solid exit strategy [...
Jan 19, 2025•42 min•Ep. 146
Running a retail business doesn’t mean running on empty. In this After the Show segment, I talk about the importance of slowing down and reconnecting with yourself—even when life gets busy. We’ll be diving into why taking a break isn’t a setback but a setup for sustainable success. From building systems to leaning on your team, this quick episode will inspire you to embrace balance, listen to yourself, and come back stronger. [00:46] Why social media is the secret weapon for introverts [01:45] H...
Jan 14, 2025•12 min•Ep. 145
Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind : Resilient Together -- What happens when passion meets strategy in retail? Tanner and Erika, the dynamic duo behind "Famous in Oregon," turned their love for houseplants into a multimillion-dollar brand by harnessing the power of social media. In this episode, they share the secrets behind their success, from building a relatable brand to creating content that connects. Discover how they started, the story behind their unique name, and how following demand—r...
Jan 12, 2025•45 min•Ep. 144
