Rooted in Retail – Details, episodes & analysis

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Rooted in Retail

Crystal Vilkaitis

Business

Frequency: 1 episode/4d. Total Eps: 189

Running a store can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be lonely! Rooted in Retail is a show dedicated to helping independent retailers thrive in today's ever-evolving retail landscape. This show is made for Main Street retailers like gift shops, jewelers, pet stores, boutiques, florists, home decor and furnitures stores, hardware stores, toy stores, craft, quilting and sewing shops; tea and coffee shops, specialty retailers and more. Join your host Crystal Vilkaitis, The Wolf of Main Street, as she explores topics that are vital to the success of your store. From marketing to mindset, money to merchandising, sales to leadership, she'll cover it all. Each episode features interviews with industry experts and accomplished retailers who share their real-life insights and actionable advice. Get ready for a great conversation on how to build your dream business with Rooted in Retail.

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Apple Podcasts

🇩🇪 Germany - entrepreneurship
01/06/2025
#97
🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
25/05/2025
#79
🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
24/05/2025
#50
🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
07/05/2025
#64
🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
21/12/2024
#85
🇨🇦 Canada - entrepreneurship
20/12/2024
#69

Spotify

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Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://www.instagram.com/jen_gottlieb
190 shares
https://www.instagram.com/whitearrowshome
95 shares
https://www.instagram.com/crystalvilkaitis
41 shares

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RSS feed quality

Good

Score global : 73%

Publication history

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Why Assumptions Are Your Biggest Roadblock - After the Show

Episode 140

mardi 17 décembre 2024 • Duration 17:01

Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind: Resilient Together
--
Ever thought about why you believe what you believe? It’s time to question it.

One takeaway that really stuck with me from my last episode with Ulla Hald was her advice to question your assumptions. In today’s episode, I’m diving deeper into what that means and how it applies to your business.

We’ll explore how assumptions can stifle creativity and keep us from evolving. And I’ve got a simple, actionable exercise to help you challenge your assumptions. We’ll use a common one in retail as an example.

As you listen, think about one of your own assumptions to challenge and work through this exercise with me. Let’s question, adapt, and evolve together!

[00:00] It’s Time to Question Your Assumptions - After the Show

[01:43] What happens when we make assumptions in business

[03:48] 5 ways to question your assumptions

[07:11] An exercise to try when foot traffic feels slow

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Get all of the details in our show notes https://rootedinretail.com/episodes/why-assumptions-are-your-biggest-roadblock/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation

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Tech Solutions to Simplify Your Retail Workflow with Ulla Hald

Episode 139

dimanche 15 décembre 2024 • Duration 27:38

Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind: Resilient Together

--
Technology isn’t just for big retailers. In this episode, Ulla Hald shares how small businesses can use innovative tools to streamline operations and build a stress-free, thriving store.

Ulla created the FAVES app to empower boutiques, combining her experience at Apple with her love for tech that’s actually easy to use. Her mission is helping indie retailers like you succeed in today’s competitive world.

In this episode, we’re talking all about how tech can help you manage inventory, plan smarter, and take control of your business. Tune in for actionable tips that will give you peace of mind and the confidence to make your store more resilient and successful.

[04:03] Where retailers should focus to simplify operations

[05:54] Ulla's advice for retailers hesitant to adopt new technology

[08:54] The biggest mistakes retailers make with inventory buying

[13:25] Future trends Ulla sees shaping the retail industry

[14:33] How technology can help retailers up their game

[19:02] Ulla's resilience round

[19:04] Best business book

[20:01] Best retail technology

[20:57] How do you keep up with the ever changing retail landscape?

[21:48] What's an inventory management foundational best practice?

[23:04] If you had to start your business all over again, what's one thing you'd do differently?

[24:18] What do you think the future of independent retail looks like?

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Get all of the resources in our show notes - https://rootedinretail.com/episodes/tech-solutions-to-simplify-your-retail-workflow-with-ulla-hald/

How Imperfection Became the Heart of a Brand with Mehru Anand

Episode 130

dimanche 17 novembre 2024 • Duration 38:31

When I sat down with today’s guest, Mehru Anand, founder of Doodling NYC, at NY NOW, I was immediately inspired by her journey. Mehru’s journey from corporate executive to retail entrepreneur is truly inspiring.

In this episode, she shares the challenges she faced transitioning into her own business, working with freelancers, and navigating e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Etsy.

Mehru’s brand, Doodling NYC, is all about embracing authenticity and the motto "being proudly imperfect." She’s building a community and plans to expand her presence in brick-and-mortar stores—a vision she shares with us at the end of the episode that will leave you feeling motivated.

Her brand encourages creativity and self-expression. I know you’re going to love this conversation!

[00:40] How Mehru realized she didn't have a brand

[03:00] Mehru’s business philosophy: proudly imperfect

[06:27] The challenges Mehru tackled when jumping from corporate to e-commerce

[11:32] How Etsy and Shopify stack up against each other

[14:44] Mehru's advice for hiring freelancers

[20:51] What the future looks like for Doodling NYC

[24:08] Mehru's resilience round

Get all of the resources in on our website.

Staying True to the Authentic You with Russ Jones

Episode 41

dimanche 19 novembre 2023 • Duration 34:50

First things first, if you aren’t watching this episode, head over to YouTube so you can see Russ’s amazing suit!

You can tell by looking at him that former retailer and long-time home and gift rep Russ Jones nails personal branding.

Russ’s flair for Broadway, his dazzling suit, and his passion for retailers are part of his authentic story. In this episode, we’re in person at the Las Vegas Market, where Russ gives retailers a tip on how to walk the market to build THEIR story.

Straight from the mouth of Russ comes this great line: “The wheel works great, so why reinvent it?”...SO true. No need to reinvent yourself; be YOU! He shares how to use that to your advantage in your store by crafting ideas, being creative, building relationships, and more.

As a retailer turned rep, Russ knows both sides of the business. He shares advice for retailers to connect with the right reps so no one's time is wasted. Working with a rep should be a trust-filled, committed relationship because, as Russ says, he’s too old for a one-night stand.

This was such a fun conversation! You’ll be nodding your head along with Russ’s revelations and taking home some great tips too.

I’m rooting for your success.

What’s Inside:

Building your personal brand as a retailer.
How to use the market to craft your store’s story.
The importance of creativity in retail.
How to find and build a relationship with the right rep for your store.

Mentioned In This Episode:
Ivystone
Amazon.com: People Buy You: The Real Secret to what Matters Most in Business (Jeb Blount) eBook
EVOLVE 2024 in Denver, CO - Crystal Media
Social Media Hooks and Hacks - Crystal Media
Crystal Media Insiders
Crystal Media
Crystal on Instagram
Crystal Media on Instagram
Crystal Media Co - YouTube

Behind The Scenes Of A Dream with Kristin Lenz of White Arrows Home

Episode 40

dimanche 12 novembre 2023 • Duration 57:54

Before opening White Arrows Home in August 2020, Kristin Lenz had no retail or business experience. Instead, she refers to herself as an innately creative dreamer.

As you listen in, you will see just how true that is! Kristin shares the behind the scenes story of how her Instagram blog and lifestyle brand became the store it is today, just three years later.

When you’re opening a retail store for the first time, it can be hard to know when to hire and who to hire. White Arrows Home was open for three weeks before Kristin brought on her first employee - friend and favored furniture designer—as shopkeeper, and then eventually a bookkeeper, later a social media manager and online merchandiser.

All of Kristin’s team members have unique talents beyond their roles that contribute to their value. Including photography to show off all of their products at their very best. But her thoughtfulness with her team doesn't end there; she also involves them in triumphs and creative adventures.

Starting out on Instagram, Kristin has a strong understanding of social media and the value it can bring to a business. BUT she also knows when to draw the line. Along with other tips, she shares how she actually turned off likes on her Insta posts - taking the vanity away and allowing her to track data without blinders.

At the core of our conversation, Kristin proves that success is more than just numbers. It’s taking a dream and running with it, being true to yourself, and valuing relationships.

If you loved this conversation, check out The Cabincast podcast, where Kristin is a co-host, and be on the lookout for her up and coming book!

I’m rooting for your success.

What’s Inside:

Behind the scenes at White Arrows Home The Shop.
When and who to hire when you're getting started in retail.
Challenges and triumphs with your team as an independent retailer.
Content creation and social media tips for retailers.

Mentioned In This Episode:
White Arrows Home The Shop
Kristin Lenz (@whitearrowshome) on Instagram
White Arrows Home - The Shop (@whitearrowshome_theshop) on Instagram
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect
POS Systems | Point of Sale for Small Businesses | Square
EVOLVE 2024 in Denver, CO - Crystal Media
Social Media Hooks and Hacks - Crystal Media
Crystal Media Insiders
Crystal Media
Crystal on Instagram
Crystal Media on Instagram

It’s Time To Be Seen with Jen Gottlieb

Episode 39

dimanche 5 novembre 2023 • Duration 57:20

What if you stopped hiding behind the YOU, you think everyone wants to see and show the world who you really are?

This is what speaker, author, and friend Jen Gottlieb says it means to be seen. BE SEEN is her new book, available now and full of resources, tools, and tips for anyone. But today we’re taking Jen’s incredibly transformative advice and applying it to you, retailers!

I know that many retailers hold themselves back because they don’t feel perfect. Jen shares something that is so true and will put a stop to this mindset: People do not relate to perfect people because perfect people do not exist.

The Confidence Continuum is Jen’s trick to making these hard, intimidating actions happen and happen with confidence. She explains how to jump into your first action step, and before you know it, your 3 steps in with less fear, more motivation, more momentum…and yes, CONFIDENCE!

I love this chat with Jen, particularly because she shares two calls to action that have personally transformed and changed my life. Want to get the best pep talk from the greatest coach in the world? Need to power through imposter syndrome? Tune in and get to work on your letter from you 2.0 and your badass list.

You won’t leave this episode feeling like everything is easy, because, as Jen says, “If it were easy, everyone would be a ripped billionaire.” BUT you will have the tools to do the work and Be Seen, whatever that means for you and your store.

I’m rooting for your success.

What’s Inside:

What does it mean to Be Seen?
How to make your store and your products stand out.
Two tools that will change your life.
How to tackle hard things with the Confidence Continuum.
Transformational tools and tips for retailers.

Mentioned In This Episode:
Beseen – Jen Gottlieb
Jen Gottlieb 🎤 Keynote Speaker (@jen_gottlieb) on Instagram
EVOLVE 2024 in Denver, CO - Crystal Media
Social Media Hooks and Hacks - Crystal Media
Crystal Media Insiders
Crystal Media
Crystal on Instagram
Crystal Media on Instagram
Crystal Media Co - YouTube

Sustainable Sensory Awareness For Wellness This Holiday Season with Dr. Nicole Villegas

Episode 38

dimanche 29 octobre 2023 • Duration 53:32

Okay, before we get going... let out a big sigh! Notice how you feel?

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Villegas is explaining Sensory Awareness and how something as simple as a sigh can impact your vagus nerve and bring you to a calm and collected state.

As retailers, you are creative beings. Likely aware of how your products affect the senses of your customers. But what about you?

By supporting your sensory awareness and your sensory experience and using the tools Nicole shares today, you can move yourself through the stress cycle. Reducing your chances for chronic stress that leads to burnout and even physical ailments.

Compassion. Curiosity. Consent. These are the 3 C’s of self care that can help you take awareness and control of your sensory experiences. But you’ll hear in our conversation how you can use them in your business and with your customers too!

Finally, consider the environment of your store. What’s the hero? What are the supporting elements? Consider how these sensory elements affect not only your customers, but also you and your staff who will be in the store for long periods of time.

As you finish the episode, take Nicole's advice: Pause. Take a breath. Notice where you are.

I’m rooting for your success.

What’s Inside:

What is Sensory Awareness?
The 3 C’s of Self Care and how to apply them in retail.
Can a sigh really impact your mood and energy?
The formula for an ideal in store sensory experience.

Mentioned In This Episode:
The Institute for Sensory Conscious Living
EVOLVE 2024 in Denver, CO - Crystal Media
Social Media Hooks and Hacks - Crystal Media
Crystal Media Insiders
Crystal Media
Crystal on Instagram
Crystal Media on Instagram
Crystal Media Co - YouTube

Walking Through The Fire with Patricia Norins

Episode 37

dimanche 22 octobre 2023 • Duration 49:54

If you are feeling stressed, burned out, overwhelmed, or in just general disarray, this one’s for you!

As we head into the holiday season, things might be challenging. My mentor, friend, and returning guest, Patricia Norins is sharing her story of burnout, how she overcame it, and tools you can actually use to support yourself.

So how do you walk through the fire and get to the other side?

Take a step back. This is something we come back to over and over in the episode. Just really take time to pause, face what’s going on and what you’re feeling, and then reach out for support.

You are going to want to listen to the whole episode to absorb every single piece of advice Patricia has to share, but this one is GOLD:

Make a Real vs. Worry list. Write down all the thoughts that are causing you concern and divide them into columns - Things that are REAL concerns and things that are made up worries. Then make a mindshift to only focus on the real concerns.

You are going to get through this holiday season and whatever challenges you may find yourself facing. Things might get uncomfortable. That’s okay.

Pare back your to do list. Start gratitude and self celebration habits. Outsource tasks you just can't get done. And JUST BREATHE.

I’m rooting for your success.

What’s Inside:

A vulnerable look at how hard life can get as an entrepreneur.
Tools and tips for support during a challenging time.
How to set yourself up for success this holiday season.

Mentioned In This Episode:
Blue Butterfly
All Things Real Estate with Patricia Norins of Blue Butterfly
EVOLVE 2024 in Denver, CO - Crystal Media
Social Media Hooks and Hacks - Crystal Media
Crystal Media Insiders
Crystal Media
Crystal on Instagram
Crystal Media on Instagram
Crystal Media Co - YouTube

5 Steps to Beat Holiday Induced Stress and Burnout with Dr. Michelle Wolford

Episode 36

dimanche 15 octobre 2023 • Duration 40:28

How are you supporting yourself and your health as you dive into the busy holiday season? Too often retailers find themselves burned, drained, and stressed in the midst of the happiest time of the year.

My personal doctor of nearly a decade, Dr. Michelle Wolford, is with me to share 5 steps you can put into action to change your health to not only support you in Q4 but the rest of your life.

Techniques - Dr. Wolford shares a great morning routine to get your days started off right: Wake up, Organize your top 3 to do’s, and take 10 minutes to pause in meditation and manifestation.

Supplements - Adaptogens, Immune support, Down Regulating Stress and Anxiety, and Sleep support…Dr. Wolford shares natural medicine that can support you in areas you need without compromising your health.

Food - A balanced diet is KEY, set yourself up for success in the hustle bustle by having healthy grab and go snacks like Fast Bars, Lara Bars, and Cliff Bars. [Retailer bonus… keep some stocked in the store to support your team too.]

Body Movement - You may be getting your steps in just around the store, but make sure to set time for intentional movement especially outside if you can!

Gratuity - You can write it down or speak it out loud, but get in the positive habit of finding something you’re grateful for each day before you go to bed.

This is just a taste of all the amazing advice and tips Dr. Wolford shares in the episode so don’t forget to tune in, take notes, and check out the list of product recommendations linked below!

And don’t forget Dr. Wolford amazing offer: 50% off new patient visits when you mention Rooted in Retail to her front desk.

I’m rooting for your success.

What’s Inside:

How your health can impact your response to high stress seasons.
5 steps for creating a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Wolford’s supplement and snack bar recommendations.
Support yourself, your team, and your clients with intentional health changes.

Mentioned In This Episode:
Dr. Michelle Wolford
Supplements - Fullscript - Dr. Michelle Wolford
EVOLVE 2024 in Denver, CO - Crystal Media
Social Media Hooks and Hacks - Crystal Media
Crystal Media Insiders
Crystal Media
Crystal on Instagram
Crystal Media on Instagram
Crystal Media Co - YouTube

Sell More in the Holidays and Beyond with Dawn Grooters of Broken Vessel Sales

Episode 35

dimanche 8 octobre 2023 • Duration 22:56

As retail heads into a busy holiday season, live from Las Vegas Market, Dawn Grooters of Broken Vessel Sales joins me to help you prepare.

There is a common theme in our discussion today: relationships and connection = MORE sales. Dawn shares tips to reach customers by standing out with events, gift wrapping, open houses, and the lost art of phone calls.

You can use phone calls to personally invite your loyal customers to events, check on abandoned carts, and get to know their needs. The more you know your customers, the more you know how to help them with gift guides and more.

Dawn also urges retailers to take this pre-holiday season to analyze their strengths and weaknesses. Really capitalize on those strengths and special talents within your team.

Speaking of the team, this is such a busy time, and an overworked staff can get close to burnout. Show your appreciation with extra treats, samples, and gifts, and maybe an after-holiday celebration!

Don’t forget to take care of yourself too. Store owners need to prepare at home and in the store, whether this means setting up meal services, scheduling downtime, or pre-planning displays and events.

The fourth quarter is already the busiest season; make it a successful one too!

I’m rooting for your success.

What’s Inside: