Explore every episode of the podcast Rooted in Retail
Dive into the complete episode list for Rooted in Retail. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Why Assumptions Are Your Biggest Roadblock - After the Show
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
-- 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?
How Imperfection Became the Heart of a Brand with Mehru Anand
17 Nov 2024
00:38:31
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
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.
Behind The Scenes Of A Dream with Kristin Lenz of White Arrows Home
12 Nov 2023
00:57:54
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.
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.
Sustainable Sensory Awareness For Wellness This Holiday Season with Dr. Nicole Villegas
29 Oct 2023
00:53:32
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.
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.
5 Steps to Beat Holiday Induced Stress and Burnout with Dr. Michelle Wolford
15 Oct 2023
00:40:28
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.
Sell More in the Holidays and Beyond with Dawn Grooters of Broken Vessel Sales
08 Oct 2023
00:22:56
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:
Selling techniques for retailers this holiday season.
Holiday 2023: What do retailers need to know?
How to sell more in Q4.
Tips for beating holiday burnout in the busy retail world.
Social Media Transformation: Overcoming Fear and Resistance for Your Business with Michelle Smith
01 Oct 2023
00:44:42
When I first saw Piccolo Mondo on social media, you would rarely, if ever, see the face of owner Michelle Smith. Now that she has done the work, changed her mindset, and is doing it afraid, and she has seen the results.
Michelle felt nervous, vulnerable, and afraid to show up on a livestream for her customers. But she took the leap. With advice, research, and the support of her friend, she started filming Toy Talk Tuesdays. These lives have become wildly successful, with the replays reaching more than Michelle ever thought possible.
Now, with the application CommentSold, customers can view Piccolo Mondo Live Streams from Instagram, Facebook, their website, and their app! Michelle also keeps it fun by trying new things in her social posts with Reels involving dancing and music. Her customers love it.
One thing I love about Michelle is that she does the work. As a Crystal Media Insider and even a recent graduate of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Michelle works hard to put what she learns into action.
Creating community, reaching customers, and being human have become huge values for Michelle and her team. She shares three things to consider when it comes to attracting customers: Product, Prices, and People. How can you leverage all three of these to create an authentic community of your ideal customers?
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
How to transform your social media when you’re nervous?
The impact of being REAL on social media.
Michelle Smith’s journey from afraid to confident.
Filling your cup: how to prevent and heal burnout.
Three things that attract people to your business.
Kelly Gunn is the owner of Part-Time Pickers, an online vintage retailer! What started out as a fun hobby transformed into a 6 figure business.
Kelly’s success didn’t happen by accident; she has a course teaching exactly how she did it, and in today’s episode, she is dropping some of her secrets!
You know I am all about the power of social media, and that is exactly where Part-Time Pickers grew into what it is. Kelly shares how to get off the content creation struggle bus and start engaging with your community!
She is best known for her “Pick or Pass?” or “Would YOU pay that?” videos that utilize her active search for vintage finds for content and growth. But that's just ONE tip; she has so many more when it comes to consistency, commitment, and patience.
No matter where you’re at in your retail journey, Kelly’s motivation and craving for success are contagious!
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
How to turn a hobby into a business.
How to survive content creation.
Creating a consistent and growing online presence.
How to Get a Waitlist with Beth Rich of Mix it Up Home & Gift
17 Sep 2023
00:43:33
When you finish this episode, I think you’ll agree with Beth Rich’s new nickname “Brilliant Beth”.
Five years ago, Beth bought Mix It Up Home & Gift; now she has TRIPLED sales in the last four years. Another shocking key to her success... averaging 70 store events a year!
Beth is fortunate to have two stores that thrive in a resort downtown area that participate in dozens of events yearly, which add to her sales, but she has a super unique take on a private event…laundry night.
These nights are actually called ‘Holiday After Hours Parties’ and they are so successful that Beth actually has waitlists for people to participate. These bring in old and new customers, and they streamline MAJOR sales. Beth explains how these events work, and you are going to be inspired.
Process and operations are major factors for Beth and her team. She uses Asana and Shopify to digitize and simplify the information needed for her store, ordering, and creating stellar customer service experiences.
You don’t have to know how to do this all on your own. Beth is an advocate for hiring help where you need it! She hired an operations consultant. See where YOU may need help and seek support.
Listen, you have to tune in all the way through because there is so much gold here throughout the whole episode!
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
A unique way to build sales and exclusivity with events.
The secret to having a waitlist of customers.
How to use Asana for retail.
Hiring support for operations and processes.
Using private and public events to boost sales.
A great idea for a special customer service experience.
Transforming Our Brand: From Crystal Media to Rooted in Retail
14 Nov 2024
00:17:09
Welcome to this special bonus episode. I wanted to film this because we had some really big news this week. We are now operating as Rooted in Retail, not Crystal Media. We have been undergoing this transformation for some months now behind the scenes and I wanted to take you though the decision process because I think there is a lot you can learn about branding and messaging in your business. I am also sharing with you the plans have have for the future and what you can expect!
I'm really excited about what we're doing and I'm really excited for you to be a part of it.
[00:00] Big Announcement!
[00:38] Behind the Scenes of the Rebranding Decision
[02:28] The Importance of Messaging in Business
[03:57] Evolution of the Brand: From Crystal Media to Rooted in Retail
[05:57] Expanding Beyond Social Media
[07:21] Introducing the Rooted in Retail Network and Mastermind
Evolve Replay: “The Most Human Brand Wins” with Mark Schaefer
10 Sep 2023
01:18:10
It’s your lucky day. Today, my Rooted in Retail listeners get an Evolve Exclusive.
Mark Schaefer of Schaefer Marketing Solutions shares business stories, branding examples, and insight that will help you attain that human touch you need to succeed in today’s business landscape.
It’s time to look at your customers as more than just the people buying your product; they are the heroes and the marketers.
Mark shares that ⅔ of marketing actually occurs without the business owner but instead through customers via social media, influencers, testimonials, reviews, and word of mouth. These are the champions of your product.
What do people think of when they think of your brand? That face and that idea become the brand, so make it personal.
You don’t want to miss out on these insights on community, branding, technology, and the intersection of purpose.
Listen in for the full presentation, “The Most Human Brand Wins” from the incredible Mark Schaefer.
Want to see next year's presentations live? Get your tickets for Evolve 2024 now!
Retail and Family: Advice, Tips, and Smart Ideas with Jen Komaromi of Jenny K Gifts
03 Sep 2023
00:27:58
Nestled into a neighborhood shopping center in El Cerrito, CA, are Jenny K. Gift Shop and Well Grounded Tea & Coffee, both owned by Jen Komaromi and her husband.
I got the chance to chat with Jen in person at the Las Vegas Market, and having been in business for 20 years, she has some great tips to share.
Retailing with your family is a full commitment, but Jen wouldn’t have it any other way. When it comes to ordering products, creating training, menu development, running the books, and all the roles in between, Jen and her husband are sure to have a clear division of labor. Jen even shares some fun stories about her children being a part of the day to day as babies.
In addition to family, Jenny K. and Well Grounded are all about Community. Jen shares how they’ve utilized their small neighborhood location to develop relationships, support the schools, and strengthen their business.
If you haven't had the pleasure of visiting Jenny K. Gift Shop in person, you can see for yourself online the incredible eye she has for the product. Which speaks for just one of Jen’s great tips in this episode: Buy for your customer, NOT yourself.
Whether it's advice on digitalization and starting with a POS or a surprising way to manage stress, whether you're a brand new retailer or have tons of experience under your belt... Jen shares some great stories and tips you don’t want to miss.
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
Owning a business with your spouse and family.
The value of Involvement and connection in community.
Planning for Holiday: Strong Concepts, Storytelling, and WOW Moments
27 Aug 2023
00:32:12
In this special episode, we recorded Live at the Las Vegas Market. It may be August when this is airing, but as retailers, you know the is coming!
The holidays are a big time of year for retailers across nearly all niches, from decorating to gifts.
Returning from episode 4 (if you haven't listened to this one yet, be sure to you don’t want to miss it) is Michelle Sherrier from The Retail Whore Podcast.
She is sharing her design, planning, and merchandising expertise when it comes to all things holiday. Do I have any pet stores, jewelers, or toy stores out there? Michelle gives industry specific ideas on how to build a sale and a story this gift season.
Listen, don’t let October sneak up on you! Michelle wants you to know that it is too late to start planning because you want to be sold out before the holiday hits!
If you’re feeling stressed out just thinking about these things, you need to stay till the end as we discuss some tips for relieving burnout during a busy holiday!
You may be busy; it may be hard. Just remember to enjoy this season and take time for your traditions!
Taking the Leap to Multiple Store Locations with AdreAnne Tesene
20 Aug 2023
00:33:52
Toying around with the idea of opening another location? This is the crash course you need.
In just 30 minutes, AdreAnne Tesene and I cover an insane amount of resources, tips, and advice.
As the owner of Two Bostons with 7 locations, AdreAnne shares that 7 stores is nothing compared to that first leap of 1 to 2.
What factors should you consider when you're opening a second store?
Location, Operations, Inventory, Staffing, and Marketing... Don’t forget to get your notes out because you don’t want to miss the resources and wisdom for these key foundational elements.
Be open to growing and lean on people who know more than you; that’s the advice AdreAnne leaves you with today, and I couldn’t agree more!
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
What to know before you jump from 1 store to 2.
Factors in operating multiple store locations.
Tips for consistent staffing across store locations.
Foundational success tips whether you run 1 store or 10.
Understanding The Mystery of Google Ads with Vi Wickam (Part 2)
13 Aug 2023
01:00:07
We’re welcoming Vi Wickam back this week, this time to talk all about Google Ads.
How do they work? Where should you be showing up?
A little secret… The first 3 results in each section of a google search result is a paid ad. You are not going to get those spots if someone else is willing to pay and you aren't.
Vi breaks down the landing page of a search results into types of ads: Standard Text Ads (these are your text based ads, strongly related to key words) and Display Ads (these are visual ads including images, gifs, and youtube videos).
Are you a local brick and mortar or a nationwide e-commerce retailer? How you market online matters. For these two differing structures your keywords and target audience will be a lot different.
Google values three factors when it comes to pushing your ads: Direction (where in the world are you?), Reviews (get those happy customers to leave raving reviews), and Key words (how dialed in are you in what your customers are searching for?).
And look if this is all starting to sound complicated or hard to understand. You don't have to do it alone. Vi shares some red flags to look out for so you can hire a strong and trustworthy ad company. [TIP #1 OWN ALL YOUR OWN ASSETS].
If you’re ready to get started and want to get control of your assets, be sure to visit Vi Wickam for a digital audit.
Don’t miss out on the rest of those red flags and more and listen to the full episode.
I’m Rooting for Your Success.
What’s Inside:
What types of Google Ads are there and where are you showing up?
Red Flags for hiring ad companies.
Converting web traffic to foot traffic for brick and mortar retailers.
Understanding SEO: More Than Generating Traffic with Vi Wickam
06 Aug 2023
00:51:31
When someone is looking for what you're selling…are they finding you first?
My dear friend and web guy, Vi Wickam, joins me today to drop some crucial tips on SEO for both brick and mortar and e-commerce retailers.
We all Google everything. So it’s no surprise that when your customers want to find something, they Google it too. How are you showing up?
Vi breaks down the structure of Google results and how your retail business may fit into these sections ads, Shopping, Organic Results, Google Map Results, and Directories.
If you’re a Brick and Mortar business, your website and SEO will look different from an Ecommerce page with hundreds to thousands of products.
For B&M, make sure your home page is solid, with your address and phone number on every page. (Listen to the episode for a great tip on formatting.)
For Ecommerce, this is advice you’ll hear over and over for various areas of business, BE HUMAN. Your product descriptions take the place of your on floor salespeople. So include the data and let it tell a story.
Looking for help with web design and SEO? You can’t improve what you can’t measure, so get a good look at your analytics and find someone with full transparency. The tip Vi has here… you don’t want to miss because it is critical to maintaining your assets.
Whether you're just starting and need to fine tune your structural foundation or you’re ready to get listed, there is so much packed into this episode that you wouldn’t want to miss! I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
What is SEO and why do you need to utilize it?
How to find the right person to assist with website design and SEO.
Strategies for understanding optimizing SEO.
A key tip about owning your assets.
Brick and Mortar SEO vs E-Commerce SEO.
How Google disperses search results by paid ads and organic results.
Branding for Success with Kaila Piepkow of Dox Design
30 Jul 2023
00:35:33
First things first, branding is WAY more than designing a logo. It’s the colors, the fonts, the visuals, and the icons, and at Dox Design, it's the textures and custom patterns too!
Kaila Piepkow is the Founder of Dox Design. She is a go to branding professional, creative, and hype gal, and she shares some incredible tips for retailers in this episode.
Creating a brand means creating a visual story that resonates with your PCG. These visuals should be able to tell your audience who you are without having to read any accompanying text!! This visual layer is your first step to resonating and pulling those customers in.
The most important element for branding: COLORS. Kaila says this over and over again throughout the show. Pick those colors with purpose and use them with consistency. Then let the other visuals (logo, fonts, icons, patterns, & textures) complement your brand's color palette.
Want to know how powerful a brand's color is? Think about megabrands like Home Depot and Tiffany’s. What comes to mind?
Listen, if you’re plugging and chugging with random free Canva templates and calling it branding, WE ARE TALKING TO YOU. Consistency is key here. Canva is a great tool, but Kaila encourages you to use the brand tool kit feature to create a color and font palette that you stick to for every single visual.
Does that mean you can’t get creative and switch things up? No. Kaila suggests using purposefully designed seasonal icons and elements to compliment your brand as the year, weather, and holidays change.
You don’t want to miss all the good info in this episode, and get your branding to be top notch. Need a little more help? Check out Dox Design on social media and at their website.
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
What is branding?
What’s the difference between your logo and your brand?
What are the key elements for branding success?
Tools to support successful branding.
Is your brand resonating with your PCG?
Unique opportunities to use your branding visuals.
Inventory Management and Planning with Dane Cohen of Management One
23 Jul 2023
00:51:03
52% of your business’s cash goes to inventory, making it the most important aspect for success.
Creating an Inventory Management plan or an Open to Buy plan is going to not only help you stop winging it at market, but it can also help you understand your customer, your inventory patterns, and start making you more money with maybe even less inventory.
Dane Cohen is the Director of Sales and Business Management at Management One, and he is sharing some serious tips and advice for retailers who might be weak when it comes to inventory and the data that comes along with it.
The biggest takeaway I want you to have from this episode: Get Started.
You have to take action and start understanding how your inventory is performing. Get granular and start tracking by category. Dane calls every different category of inventory its own “mini business”.
Do you have old merchandise sitting around? Never let it celebrate a birthday. Dane’s tips like markdowns, visual merchandising, and marketing are key for busting those inventory trouble zones.
You’re not going to want to miss the breakdown of Dane’s 3 tips to get focused. 1. Track your purchase orders 2. Facts over Feelings 3. Take Action
There are so many factors when it comes to sales, so dig in and really get a full picture of the data to make a plan.
AND stop thinking your POS will be the catch all for these important aspects of your business.
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
The dangers of not planning inventory management.
Are you showing up to the market with a budget and a plan?
What tools are you leveraging for product decisions?
The most important thing in retail is… Know. Your. Customers.
Today you’re getting an exclusive view of a favorite panel from my 2023 EVOLVE conference: Generational Shoppers.
In this panel mediated by Nicole Leinbach, representing Gen X, she is joined by her Gen Z daughter Claire, Millennial Stephanie, and Baby Boomer Sandy. They also discuss our youngest generation and one of the most influential on purchasing, Gen Alpha—today’s babies and young children.
These generations have diverse buying power, paths to purchase, and other factors that can help retailers understand how to make a sale.
From scrolling social media to word of mouth, research and reviews, well trained customer service, shoppertainment, brand loyalty, or preventing dreaded returns, each of these generations has unique preferences.
What are you doing right? Where are you missing the mark? Take out your notepad, because this is a direct line into your customer groups with the questions you NEED answered.
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
A special look at the Generational Shopper Panel from Evolve 2023.
What does the path to purchase look like across generations?
Does social media impact all generations?
How important are well trained staff and good customer service.
Podcasting is a growing and popular platform. People listen in their cars, while they're cooking or cleaning, while they’re exercising—anytime they can passively consume content! What an opportunity to reach your customers!
I talk a lot about your PCG on this show; that’s your Perfect Customer Group, defined by all sorts of elements that make them your ideal client and audience for what you have to offer. When you have a podcast, you get a chance to create long form content that showcases you, what you have to offer, your authority in your niche, and most importantly, builds trust within that PCG.
So, should you start a podcast? Let’s get into the pros and cons, because there is a lot to consider.
Pros: low barriers to entry, flexibility, personal growth skills, community, establishing authority, and even creating a new revenue stream. Cons: could be time consuming, competition with other shows, technical learning curve, matchmaking with interviewees, slow growth, and podfade
This isn’t everything, and, to be honest, there are a lot of remedies for those cons. It’s all about how you frame it; this is YOUR show. It can be as fancy and complicated or as simple and down to the bones as you want!
Maybe you’re nowhere near considering starting your own podcast, but I've piqued your interest. You could consider being a sponsor or an interviewee on a show relevant to your niche, getting exposure, and plugging your business!
When you hear there are 3 million podcasts out there, you might feel intimidated, but burnout and “podfade” are real, and only about 300,000 are actually active. In the grand scheme of things, that's nothing! You have so much potential for opportunity, so get after it if it's right for you!
Have questions or concerns related to podcasting? DM me on Instagram; I’d be SO happy to help!
I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
How can retailers utilize podcasting to reach their local customers and beyond?
Podcast examples for hobby niches to connect with your PCG.
Pros and Cons of podcasting.
Is podcasting for you?
How do you get into the podcasting space without starting your own show?
Retail Growth Starts with the Right Metrics: After the Show
12 Nov 2024
00:17:20
Imagine if you could have a dashboard that shows you exactly where your business is succeeding—and where it’s not. Today, I’m going to show you how!
Dan Holman joined me in the last episode to share some powerful ideas on why key performance indicators (KPIs) are essential for growing a retail business. We talked about how analyzing these results weekly can show you what’s working in your business and help you leverage that data to boost profits.
Today, I want to dive even deeper into this and explore how AI is completely transforming the process of tracking and analyzing metrics. I’m also giving you an exclusive sneak peek at something I’m really excited about—our upcoming Rooted in Retail launch in June 2025!
And, of course, I’ll share some practical steps for creating and automating your own metrics dashboard using tools like Google Sheets and AI to take your business to the next level.
Insider Tips to Rock Social Media with Steph Bechard of Crystal Media
02 Jul 2023
00:41:30
How lucky are you!? As a retailer, you get to do social media and connect with your customers.
Steph Bechard runs our Crystal Media Insider group, and a lot of our chat today focuses on the reframing of your mind. Social media is not something you HAVE to do; it’s something you GET to do.
When it comes to creating engaging content, Steph’s tip is to keep it fun, casual, and human. Just be YOU. Small businesses have this incredible opportunity to get personal in a way that big box stores don’t.
Where should you be on social media? You’re already making content; put it EVERYWHERE. Get where your audience is spending their time: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and yes, even TikTok. Try the audio trends, effects, and new features to hook your clients!
If this is scary to you, remember that if you already know one app, chances are the other one is similar enough that you can thrive there too. And while you’re at it: batch your content!
Batching is something that has been mentioned here before, and it’s such a crucial time saver. You can do all your filming, photography, and content creation at a set time—weekly, monthly (whatever works for you!)—and use it as a content bank to keep your consistency and quality on track.
Maybe you’re already churning out content for social media and have gained a following. How are they translating into paying customers? Steph has some good ideas and advice you need to hear to keep your audience engaged and increase their desire to buy!
If you want more time saving advice and insider secrets for your social media success, you have to listen in, and it wouldn’t hurt to take notes. You can put most of these into practice right away!
So let me know, what new social media tip are you going to try?
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
What is the number 1 tip for retailers on social media?
How to keep up with changing social media trends.
What social software should you be using?
How to master the social media algorithm and extend your reach.
All Things Retail Real Estate with Patricia Norins of Blue Butterfly
25 Jun 2023
00:43:25
If you have a brick and mortar location, real estate is really important for your retail business!
Patricia Norins is my personal mentor, but she is also a retail real estate expert and cofounder of Blue Butterfly, where they bridge the gap between retailers and property owners.
We talk about common mistakes like becoming emotionally invested in a space outside of your budget or not working with an attorney.
Patricia also saves you time AND money with a list of red flags, including termination rights and rent escalation clauses.
And you’ve heard it…location, location, location. It really does matter and can play a big factor in your success.
Patricia has some amazing tips on how to do thorough research and find out if a space is the best for you with questions like, How close is it to your target audience? What does the local market look like? What’s your proximity to your competitors? And have you explored the property and neighborhood at all times of day throughout the week?
Maybe you’re thinking about buying property instead of leasing. To top off this FIRE conversation, we break down a short list of pros and cons to owning your retail space.
Whether you’re looking for a new location, unhappy in your current one, or not even considering a new lease yet, this episode is jam packed with tips you just can’t miss.
As always, I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Retail Real Estate; What should you know?
Common mistakes Retailers make when leasing a space?
Red Flags in Real Estate, what should you look out for?
How to negotiate a commercial lease?
The pros and cons to owning a space versus leasing.
Does location make or break success?
Research tips for the perfect retail space for YOU!
Slow and Steady Wins the Race with Jennifer Johnson of True Fashionistas
18 Jun 2023
00:39:32
“Never ever feel like you’ve arrived.”
That’s just one piece of awesome wisdom from Jennifer Johnson. Jennifer is the owner of True Fashionistas, Florida’s largest lifestyle consignment store.
Jennifer shares her slow and steady race to success. There is nothing that will provide better results than time, commitment, and consistency.
When it comes to social media, Jennifer has her consistency set. She shares a couple tricks that set her up for social media success all month.
Batching - Did you know you don’t have to take each picture or write each post in real time? Jennifer has a photo day once a month and preplans and schedules all her content to last all month. Reuse - Don’t let your hard work go to waste. Chances are, only a small percentage of your ideal clients saw your content for the first time. Repost and repurpose across all your platforms for more reach with less work.
Being a brick and mortar store owner, running an ecommerce site, hosting a podcast, and coaching other women entrepreneurs—where does he find the time? It’s WHO not HOW.
Know your strengths and weaknesses, and be humble enough to hire out for those weaknesses. Surround yourself with a team and an inner circle to lean on for the things you can’t do. Additionally, Jennifer has a “Founder’s Day” every Friday where she dedicates time to working ON her businesses.
Whether you are getting restless and looking for success, feeling camera shy or overwhelmed with social media planning, or drowning in your founder’s tasks, Jennifer has so many great tips that you have to listen in to hear them all for yourself!
I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
The secret to growth and success: Time and Commitment.
How to “fix and forget” your social media.
Social media scheduling and automation.
Hiring for your weaknesses to save you time and energy.
Structuring and Planning for Social Media: Find Your Face
11 Jun 2023
00:26:19
Instagram, TikTok, Facebook... wherever your business is showing up, you need to be leveraging video content and a real human face to represent your store! Humanity is what sets you apart from your big box counterparts.
Who that face is, is up to you. It can be just the owner, the team, a combo of the two, or even customers and influencers.
In this episode, I get into the pros and cons of each type of social face and how YOU can figure out what is right.
One of my favorite “Case Studies”, if you will, is a unique shop in Brooklyn, Catbird, whose socials evolved over time from solely the owner to a mix of team and influencers. There are SO many options for how you can structure your socials to fit your business and your customers.
Another key factor: Getting Personal. Personal details on your business's social media accounts build trust, build relationships, and create lifelong customers. And getting personal doesn’t have to mean sharing food pictures—or could it? But anything that matters to you—your thoughts, routines, values, and traditions—gets you closer to your customers.
Listen, you don't have to spend hours on video to make an impact on your business; it takes 5 minutes a day. But get consistent, get brand clarity, bring diversity and representation to your page, and get on the same page with your team or other ‘faces’.
I love talking about all things social media, and I love helping you create success in your retail stores. Have more questions? DM me or send an email to Hello@crystalmedia.co.
I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
Are you committing to your social media?
How to structure and ‘find your face’ for social media.
Representing all customers, so clients see themselves in your page.
Tips for getting personal (...or not) on social media.
Who can be the face of your business and how to decide?
It’s my birthday week! I’m showing up today with a minisode and a little riff on what’s on my mind AND what I've been hearing in my conversations with retailers and entrepreneurs.
Balance. The sweet divide between work, play, and rest.
Why is it SO hard to find the balance? And when you do, are you feeling chronic guilt when you aren't working?
Here's my golden tip: Get clear on what’s important.
What matters? What are your biggest priorities? Get clear, and then only give your time to those things.
Another tip: Schedule intentional rest and play. You deserve it, actively participate and give yourself to it, like it’s your job.
Not doing these things and not prioritizing balance can lead to burnout. I’ve felt that before, and if I can save any of my retailers from it, I want to.
There will always be a million things to do, but we’re in it for the long game! Face yourself every day with grace, love, and your priorities in line.
What did you think of today’s episode? Let me know!
I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
What does it mean to find balance?
How can retailers balance their priorities?
Golden tips to prevent burnout.
Are you playing and resting as much as you are working?
Do you have chronic guilt when it comes to taking a break?
AI for Retailers: An Unexpected Yet Invaluable Silent Employee
28 May 2023
00:37:11
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, you need to be leveraging Chat GPT for your retail store.
Google CEO, Sundar Pichai said, “AI is one of the most important things humanity is working on. It is more profound than, I dunno, electricity or fire”. So I’m telling you, this is BIG.
As an independent retailer, you might be wondering how Artificial Intelligence is relevant to your retail store. So I’m getting into it: What is Chat GPT? Why is it important? And how do you use it?
You can use Chat GPT for social media content and schedules, marketing ideas, video scripts, email content, and SO much more. The trick is all in the prompts. You need specific, strong prompts to get the best responses. When it comes to Chat GPT, the more information you can provide, the better quality it can give you.
At EVOLVE, I provided over 50 prompts for retailers, and I have some AI Training coming very soon for Crystal Media Insiders.
Example Chat GPT Prompts: What are some effective ways to increase foot traffic in my store? What are some best practices for managing inventory in a retail store? How can I motivate my sales team to sell more? What are some strategies to reduce operating costs in a retail store? How can I better understand my target market and their needs? What are some effective ways to upsell products in a retail store? How can I improve customer experience? What are some ways to reduce shrinkage in a retail store? How can I optimize my store layout to improve sales? Effective pricing strategies for retail stores? How can I better train my staff to provide customer service? How can I better manage my store's finances? How can I create a positive culture in a retail environment?
These are just a few ideas; the options and applications are endless. Chat GPT is a free silent business advisor and social media manager at your fingertips!
Listen to the full episode and stay tuned for my insider training to really capture the magnitude of AI and how you can generate copy that resonates and connects with your clients.
I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Why is AI important for retailers right now?
Leverage AI for social media and marketing content?
How to use Chat GPT as a silent employee for your retail store.
A “journal hack” to use Chat GPT to nail your perfect client.
Chat GPT prompts and examples for REAL retail stores.
Evolve or Don’t Exist; Lessons From My EVOLVE Conference
21 May 2023
00:36:33
I’m back from EVOLVE and wow it was amazing! I am so grateful to everyone who attended, spoke, and participated in my very first conference.
Today, I’m sharing some big takeaways and emotional experiences from EVOLVE. Let’s get down to it, as retailers you either need to Evolve or just not exist.
What do I mean by that? A lot of the attendees were not keen to jump on social and promote their store, they were lacking in video content, and they were not utilizing their biggest differentiator: themself!
Why? Mindset. They were afraid, worried about perfection, nervous…but that’s okay. Just do it afraid. Just do it messy. Just do it.
You’ll hear a clip from a retailer, Christina, who remarks “maybe I can do this…” YES! Yes you can. That is the mindset shift.
Retailers, I know it’s hard to put yourself out there. But owning a business is a lot about building relationships with your customers, and the place to do that now is on social media with video.
I’m challenging you to just post one video on your social media. Just one, then one more, and then another. You will see the transformation!
Speaking of transformation, now is the time to get your early bird registration to EVOLVE 2024 for a conference full of transformation, motivation, inspiration and more.
I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Looking back at EVOLVE 2023
Are you afraid of social media?
Why you shouldn’t wait for perfection to get started.
Community Creating, Market Tip, and Real Retail Examples GALORE with Amy Loewenberg of Emerald X
14 May 2023
00:46:56
You’re going to be blown away by the experience and knowledge from Amy Loewnberg in this conversation!
Community, it’s the power of connections that drives us and pushes us through the ebbs and flows of the economy. How do you create a community? Go where your people are! Embrace the channels that give you reach. Yes, that means social media!!!
Amy actually shares examples from her personal instagram on how you can get connected, meet new people like potential merchants, learn new ideas, and get in front of the people who want to buy from you.
In addition to her wise words for community we also talk all things market and she has some really great tips for retailers heading to trade shows:
Study the market - The better you know the show, the better you can utilize it.
New buyer orientation - Sign up even if it's not your first time at a market!
Know your product needs - Bring a shopping list and really know your budget.
Ask before you photograph - We’re always so quick to snap a pic but get permission first.
Bring a business card with a QR code - Don’t let people forget you, make it easy to find you.
Take well organized notes - Who did you talk to? What do you want to buy? KEEP TRACK!
Be patient and courteous - Vendors might be operating a 1 person booth and it might get busy.
Have fun and enjoy the experiences - With so much available, take part in everything you can.
ALWAYS post and tag - Remember!? It's back to community creation on social media!
There has also been quite a disruption in the trade show space: hybrid markets. Amy shares about the wonderful and necessary opportunity it is for online marketplaces. You want to make it as easy for the customer as possible, and digital spaces will never replace in person interactions, just enhance them!
She has seen the ins and outs of retail, and you will just love her creative eye and heart for incredible retailers and their products. Be sure to check out ALL of the retailers Amy mentioned today at their links. And for more inspiration and all around retail wisdom give Amy a follow on Instagram.
I am rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
How to create a community as an independent retailer.
What you need to know before attending a trade show!
Find and Keep Awesome Employees with Bob Negen of WhizBang! Retail Training
07 May 2023
00:47:29
Feeling stuck when it comes to your team? Bob Negen of WhizBang! Retail Training joins me for his second appearance on Rooted in Retail (check out Episode 7 in case you missed it!).
The good help that can help you create and grow your dream team IS out there. A recent survey of retailers with Crystal Media reported that the majority of retailers' biggest challenge is finding and keeping awesome employees.
Bob is sharing some incredible and ACTIONABLE tips from his training to help you march forward in the hiring journey.
If we look in the window of your store, will we find the black and orange: HELP WANTED sign? Toss it out. Bob shares the formula for a Red Hot Wanted Ad that will attract the employees you dream about that want to work for YOU and fit right in.
The Red Hot Wanted Ad needs: Well Written Content: A headline with the job title and description and a subtitle with the benefits of working for you. Then comes the body; describe your ideal employee, describe what's in the job and what it's like working in your store, and describe the business. Finally, a call to action, what’s the next step for your future star employee? Identify Employee Demographic: AI is a great tool for adapting your content to the right audience. Who are you looking for? Have Chat GPT change the verbage to reflect your ideal demographic. Distribution: Put it out into the world; take this well designed piece of marketing and feature it on socials, email lists, hiring pages, bag stuffers, and business cards; get it anywhere where more ideal team members might see it.
After you’ve hired your new amazing team member, how do you retain them? Keeping employees these days is difficult, but only if your business isn't maintaining a good work culture. When it comes to building culture, Bob has 3 E’s you need to put to work: Educate, Engage, and Empower.
Also, don’t miss out on The Retail Success Summit, June 12th and 13th, directly following my Social Media Day on June 11th, which you can only get access to with admission to the summit. Use code Rooted for $500 off your ticket!
We lay out the steps to hiring right there for you so you don’t have to worry about how to find awesome employees anymore. Listen to the full episode for more actionable tips so you can get to work! I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
How to create and grow your dream team.
Craft a ‘Red Hot Wanted Ad’.
Building good culture with the 3 E’s.
Recruiting and retaining employees.
Actionable tips to march forward in hiring and onboarding.
Retail Stories, Advice, and Inspiration with Matt Harris of Matt Harris Designs
30 Apr 2023
00:50:27
I find so much value in stories from retailers of growth and change. Matt Harris brings to today’s episode decades of retail experience, going all the way back to age 16 as a self proclaimed ‘mall rat’.
Matt's love for retail began as a teenager and his innate skill and passion helped him grow his career from selling ladies shoes to selling high-end art. His journey through retail takes many twists and turns as he left the space for a career in software, returning just several years ago with the fire for retail still inside.
During an opportunity to teach an MBA class Matt discovered his flare for pearl jewelry design. A “practice business” led him to creating designs for Debra Messing, Britney Spears, and Harry Connick jr. So when he returned to the retail world, he absolutely rooted himself in jewelry and pearls.
Matt helped transform and grow one Austin, TX jewelry store leaps in bounds with some critical changes to their sales routines.
Retailers are you focusing on… -Training sales people -Approaching every customer -Consistent, realistic, fair pricing, -Adding on sales for the complete customer experience
Those are just some of the really great tips inside today’s episode. Matt talks about tips for increasing store traffic when you’re facing construction outside your brick and mortar, tips for branding, and a little peek into the wholesale world.
You are not going to want to miss the infinite knowledge and really interesting stories from Matt!
I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Retail stories backed by decades of experience.
Real tips for retailers to increase sales and revenue.
An interesting tip to increase foot traffic.
How to create an impactful customer experience AND boost sales.
Turn Your Store’s Data into Dollars with Dan Holman
10 Nov 2024
00:50:52
If your POS system is more of a headache than a help, you need to hear this! Today, I’m joined by my friend and industry expert, Dan Holman, who’s here to show you how tracking the right data can drive your sales.
This episode is action-packed. Dan brings over 40 years of retail experience to the table, and he’s ready to break down some of the most important metrics in retail—what you should be measuring, why it matters, and how to simplify the process so it feels less overwhelming.
Dan is an award-winning business coach and founder of The Wealthy Retailer, a consulting firm that helps independent retailers and wholesalers boost profitability and cash flow.
We’ll also dive into the hot topic of POS systems. Whether you love yours, hate it, or feel stuck somewhere in between, Dan has expert advice on how to find the right fit for your business. He’s also sharing key insights to help you prepare for a successful holiday season.
Trust me, you’ll want to stick around until the end. Even in our Resilience Round, Dan is dropping wisdom, ideas, and resources that you can start using right away!
[04:25] Dan’s 40+ years of retail experience
[07:12] Why negativity holds back so many independent retailers
[10:49] The top things retailers overlook in inventory management
[18:48] Biggest data points retailers should monitor regularly
[25:25] How Dan recommends retailers track in-store traffic
[27:42] The easiest platform for tracking metrics
[30:36] Dan's advice on choosing a POS system
[34:51] How make teams stronger and more profitable
Accessing More Freedom and Flexibility in Your Retail Business with Pete Mohr, Simplifying Entrepreneurship Retail Coach
23 Apr 2023
00:43:27
Okay, you’re not alone if you started your business so you could design your schedule and live the life you want. But what do you want? Are you getting it yet?
Pete Mohr is a small town retailer, podcaster, and the retail coach behind Simplifying Entrepreneurship. He is sharing what it takes to get what you want by aligning and assigning accountability.
Are you looking for remote access? Or just less hands on in the day to day so you can make that hokey game or spend more time with your family? Everyone's needs and drives to access more freedom and flexibility are different, but if you’re a retailer and you're feeling overworked, there is work that can be done to get you there.
Pete, during our conversation, brought up a powerful question. Is it the process you don’t trust? Or is the person? Really get clarity on that because you either need to change and create a process you CAN trust or really consider why you have an employee working for you that you can’t trust.
As a retailer, Pete has the experience and the relatability to know what other retailers have gone through and are going through in their businesses. As a coach, he has the tools, like his 5 P Framework, to get you processes designed to access the freedom and flexibility you are searching for as a business owner.
Alongside his business wisdom and his favorite resources, Pete also champions the endless uses for Chat GPT. If you are a retailer and you are not using this tool to save time, you are missing out.
Don’t be shy; let me know what freedoms you’re going after! I want to know because I am rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
The value in a clear promise from your business.
Are you afraid to trust the process or the person?
BONUS EPISODE: A Young Entrepreneur Selling Pre-Owned Furniture - Edgars Cers
20 Apr 2023
00:25:02
Imagine being in high school when the pandemic hit; suddenly, school is on your phone, and you’re left with infinite free time. Edgars Cers and his brother took this and ran, as they created Comfy Living Chicago.
Comfy Living Chicago is a local Chicago business that sells high quality, affordable pre-owned furniture. What started as a side hustle turned into so much more as they learned the need on both sides of the business.
From garages to warehouses to even a storefront in just a few years, Comfy Living Chicago has seen great success. Edgars and his brother use a variety of tools on social media for marketing to their local community, especially video! He even shares how they leveraged a local influencer!
As they move forward in business, Edgars focuses on the economy, community needs, and how they can be a one stop shop offering affordable home furnishing solutions to renters and owners.
As a young entrepreneur, Edgars is focused on learning as much as he can, like this advice from Tony Robbins; The growth of the business is dependent on the owner's mindset.
Retailers, I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
From side hustle to business.
A solution for high quality, affordable furniture.
Leveraging Yelp with Emily Washcovick the Yelp Small Business Expert
16 Apr 2023
00:47:48
How are you making your Yelp account work for you?
Everyone’s heard of Yelp, and it’s not just for home services or restaurants; retail stores make up a large percentage of businesses on the website!
Emily Washcovick is Yelp’s small business expert, and she is breaking down the “science” behind their review recommendation software and important features for business owners.
Don’t be afraid of negative reviews, and don’t solicit for positive ones either! Emily says naturally inspired reviews are the best for your page, and 87% of customers are willing to look past negative reviews if the business owner is engaging with reviews and responding to concerns.
You don’t want to miss these awesome tips to leverage Yelp and grow your visibility.
Today’s Action Items: Visit your business page on Yelp - complete and verify your profile information for optimization. Create a check-in offer - this is a serious must-do - to drive traffic and incentivize natural reviews.
Go now! Check out your Yelp page! I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Behind the scenes of Yelp software.
How to take advantage of metrics in the Yelp Platform.
Thriving in Retail with Ana McConnell of Pilar Boutique
09 Apr 2023
00:49:20
The future is bright for small retailers! You’re going to LOVE this conversation I had with my very first retailer! Ana McConnell is the owner of Pilar Boutique in downtown Loveland, Colorado.
Ana first started out working in her mom’s boutique, Cloz to Home. After navigating working with her mom, she branched out on her own and is currently thriving with two locations and a photo studio.
It’s no secret that being a retailer is HARD WORK. Even Ana called her first two years ‘Absolute Hell’ but in year three of opening Pilar, it all came together, and you can hear the passion she has for her business!
If you’re struggling as a retailer, you have to know there is no one thing, no “quick fix”. But Ana shares an abundance of resources and tips that will get you to where you need to be. Whether it’s accounting, inventory, networking, or team management, she has a really great foundation and wise words for all!
Be open, pivot, know your F*&#@%! numbers, and take a break when you need it.
I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Advice for retailers from a retailer
How to manage your team and give trust.
Resources for retail needs.
Navigating working with family in a retail environment.
Making it past the first years, from hell to thriving.
BONUS EPISODE: Trading Fear for Courage with Bob Negen of WhizBang! Retail Training
06 Apr 2023
00:33:52
Everything you need to get everything you want is available! That is just one piece of incredible knowledge from Retail Vet and Co-Founder of WhizBang! Retail Training, Bob Negen.
Becoming an independent retailer is nothing short of brave, and Bob shares some wise words when it comes to breaking away from fear as a retail owner.
As Bob joins me from a podcasting suite at the Las Vegas Home and Gift Show in this Bonus Episode, we cover the economy, putting yourself out there, and his ultimate secret on how to get things done.
Worried about your business in the state of today's economy? More billionaires were created in the Great Depression than any other time in American history
Being a retail owner is a long game. You might make mistakes. You might get derailed. Just...Begin Again.
Moving forward and working toward success is a choice, and you can do it! I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
How to break past the fear of the economy as a retailer.
Why you shouldn’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Tips for achieving momentum in your retail business.
Bob’s secret for getting stuff done.
Two top focuses for retailers for the business year.
Help and Support for Independent Retailers with Patrick Keiser of Heart on Main Street
02 Apr 2023
00:33:21
Patrick Keiser was in his barber’s chair when he had a powerful conversation that may just change the retail world. Patrick is the founder and executive director of Heart on Main Street.
The presence of small retailers is down 20% in the last 20 years, Heart on Main Street is a business designed to change that by helping and supporting these local fixtures.
Whether it's money and investments, information and education, resources, or a network; Patrick’s passion is to revive Main Street and help more than the current 1 in 3 retailers make it past the 2-year mark.
With Friends on Main Street, Patrick is creating a community of like-minded retailers and businesses relative to the retailer community to give business owners the help and support they actually need.
You have to hear Patrick's passion to push the narrative back to shopping locally. He has such great advice to retailers including something I am a huge advocate for; Find a mentor.
During our conversation one thing is abundantly clear, we are rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
How one conversation led to a vision that could change the world.
A resource for new retailers or existing retailers ready for growth.
A business founded on helping independent retailers evolve and thrive in their community.
A network of experienced retailers and businesses.
Level Up Your Customer Communication with Nick McHenry of OneShop Retail
26 Mar 2023
00:39:10
Okay Retailers, Here’s a big question to consider: How are you getting customers in your door? And how are you converting that traffic into sales?
Maybe you’ve got it going on over on social…but you’re missing MAJOR opportunities via email and text.
Nick McHenry is the founder of OneShop Retail, a service that streamlines content creation and customer engagement for brick-and-mortar retail stores like you!
There can be some serious stigma around emailing and texting your customers, but we are here to help you get it right. From how many emails to send out each week to crafting the perfect content, or even how to get your customer's phone number, we’ve got something for you to use.
And listen, you don’t have to take all this information and run with it. Just commit to ONE thing and see how it transforms your business.
You can do it! I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
How to streamline your customer service and experience.
How many emails SHOULD you be sending?
What’s the right way to integrate text marketing?
Metrics that matter: Are you focusing too much on your open rate?
How to craft the perfect message for your text or email list.
How personal is too personal? Respecting your customer's inbox.
All Things Visual: Creating a Merchandising Moment with Michelle Sherrier, The Retail Whore
19 Mar 2023
00:41:09
When it comes to visual merchandising Michelle Sherrier of MC Design Collaboration and host of The Retail Whore Podcast is the go-to! In this episode, she shares her impressive wisdom, insight, and eye for creating the best visual outcome in your retail stores.
Don’t let your store and inventory get stale, give often and intentional resets to your store space. With MC Design Collaboration, Michelle works with her clients for quarterly, whole space resets but she recommends smaller refreshes with an injection of new inventory to happen monthly. She helps retailers create stories and merchandising moments by building the inventory around the client and feature products.
Benefit from more merchandising tips like: Instantly increase sales with intentional add-ons that build on your higher ticket gifts. Be intentional with your impulse section and don’t let your cash wrap turn into a ‘garage sale”. Add natural, real-world textures and scents to bring out elements of packaged goods.
And is the future of independent retail a co-op collaborative experience? Michelle shares about a client with an exciting retail vision in Joshua Tree, CA.
For all this and more, tune into the full episode! Retailers, I’m rooting for your success.
What’s Inside:
Common mistakes retailers are making.
Tips that can INSTANTLY increase sales.
Ideas for leveling up the visual displays in your stores.
What’s the difference between Add Ons and Impulse Buys?
Managing your inventory and creating a story with your products.
Tracking trends in retail.
An interesting take on the future of independent retail.
Human Touch in a High Tech World, Standing Out in Retail
12 Mar 2023
00:42:12
Small businesses this is YOUR time!
You don’t want to miss this conversation with Mark Schaefer, social media marketing expert, author of 10 incredible business and marketing books, and Keynote Speaker at my conference, EVOLVE this spring.
Mark brings his decades of experience and lens for the future of marketing to talk about his newest book, Belonging to the Brand.
The old ways of marketing are out and if you don’t adapt and evolve…you will be left behind. Now more than ever people are craving community and connection. And your company can be that community.
Mark shares the story of mega-brand, Sephora, whose revenue comes in at 80% from their online community. When you create a community within your customers, you are helping transform your customer into a company advocate. That’s right, your customers can sell your products better than you can.
In today’s world there is so much demand for your time and distraction for our attention, retailers have to stay up to date in the marketing trends to cut through the clutter. Mark gives a sneak peek at his keynote speech for EVOLVE, The Most Human Company Wins.
With so much tech in our way, we have to utilize it in a way that makes human, personal connections. That is the only way you’re going to make it and Mark says the future is bright for independent retailers. Big box stores that have owned the media over the last decade have less power when it comes to actually connecting and building their community.
In 2 years, Mark says, marketing will be unrecognizable. So keep listening, come to my conference, and gain the tools you need to keep up. I’m rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
The future of marketing.
How to stay human in a high-tech world.
Why is community so important for a company?
How to cut through the clutter and reach your customer.
Changing how you view your customer; from customer to advocate.
Sneak Peak Alert: Keynote Speech, The Most Human Company Wins!
Cathy Wagner, The Retail Maven, or as I lovingly refer to her…The Profit Lady...joins me on this episode to talk about profit when it comes to retail. She has loads of experience helping retailers make more money, have more profits, watch out for retail market trends, and stay ahead of the game.
She shares her actionable tips and steps to bring more profit to your retail business…like these 3 KPIs you NEED to pay attention to: Rent Costs - 10% of Sales Team Payroll Costs - 10% of Sales Inventory and Costs of Goods - 48% of Sales
Have you ever doubted the impact of quality customer service? Cathy shares a story about a personal experience she helped create for a retailer by making detailed, personal calls to their top customers. Those phone calls alone resulted in 30k worth of sales!
We also talk about a tricky subject for retail owners: paying yourself! Not paying yourself is not the favor you think it is. You have to value your time and input into your business, this mindset will impact your business and profits for the better.
Cathy shares a ton of great information and resources in today’s episode. So please check out the links, training, books, and whatever can be of use to you. We're here to help…and we're rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Actionable steps for more profit in your independent retail business.
Staying up to date in the ever-changing world of retail.
Comparing and watching retail trends.
A retail story of making 30K with the power of customer service.
3 Ways to Reframe Your Focus from Busy to Profitable - Retail Therapy Session with Alyssa & Angie Mangan of Blue Dahlia Designs
07 Nov 2024
00:43:56
Do you have a mile-long to-do list and feel like you’re constantly working but barely moving the needle on sales? If that sounds like you, this episode’s for you.
We’re back with another special Retail Therapy segment, and this time, Ronda and I are joined by the amazing mother-daughter duo Angie and Alyssa from Blue Dahlia Designs.
In this episode, we dive deep to help them achieve more sales, find more balance, and gain clarity on the tools and systems that really drive growth. Together, we talk about what it takes to actually build the business instead of just checking off tasks.
As a small business owner, I know firsthand how easy it is to get lost in the weeds. But as we explore here, being busy doesn’t always mean we’re moving the business forward.
I can’t wait for you to tune in and soak up all the systems, tools, and advice Ronda and I share. It’s absolutely jam-packed!
[03:50] Alyssa & Angie's challenge: bringing back repeat customers
[06:13] What the store needs to achieve to be considered successful
[08:46] Ronda's advice for a better work-life harmony
[13:35] Why rest can be a game changer in business
[14:53] Busy work vs. profit-making activities
[20:14] How batching your to-do list can free up hours
Welcome to the first episode of Rooted in Retail, where I, Crystal Vilkaitis of Crystal Media, am sharing all my experiences, tips, and tricks to guide retailers to success! We’re wasting no time and diving into my favorite topic, something I’ve been working with since 2007…Social Media.
During my time working with retailers over the last decade, I’ve seen a lot of resistance when it comes to social media. This resistance comes from the ever-changing landscape of the industry, the learning time for each new app and its features, and the fear retailers have of putting themselves out there. Sometimes I even meet retailers who are wide open to hopping on social media but are making too many mistakes to see success.
It doesn’t have to be scary, it doesn’t have to be hard. It can actually be simple! In this episode, I cover 3 big mistakes and how to fix them to get repeatable, consistent, measurable success.
I’ve got solutions for: No Plan No System No Tracking
These three things can make all the difference when it comes to your business and social media. Avoiding these mistakes and following my tips can not only prevent burnout and overwhelm but show you how serious the gains that can be made from strong, consistent social media!
Don’t forget to check out the tools and resources I share that you can find online at my website.
This will take work, time, AND action. But I’m here rooting for your success!
What’s Inside:
Welcome to Rooted in Retail, a podcast for retailers.
Why do retailers often show resistance towards social media?
How to make social media simple.
3 big mistakes retailers make in social media.
Solutions, tips, and resources for creating repeatable success through socials.
This is just a teaser trailer of what's to come and I'm so excited to be sharing this with you as this is something I've been wanting to do for several years now! It's finally happening!
Some of you may or may not know but my roots are in retail and this show will be all about educating and having open and honest conversations about business and retail.
Listen in and take a quick peek at why I started this show, what you can expect, and how this show can help your business.
Join me and my guests every Sunday and start your week Rooted In Retail!
Creative Habits to Transform Your Business - After the Show
05 Nov 2024
00:16:55
Stacey Pecor's story of pivoting through challenging times had me rethinking my creative process. In this episode of After the Show, I’m sharing insights from my inspiring conversation with Stacey from Olive & Bette’s.
During our chat, Stacey opened up about her commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. Two habits she shared are fantastic ways to spark fresh ideas in your business.
Her insights on resilience and nurturing creativity are game changers. These lessons can empower you to tackle obstacles head-on and reignite your passion for retail.
Tune in for actionable takeaways you can apply to your life and shop!
[00:35] The power of investing in yourself
[03:23] How travel can be a source of inspiration
[07:39] Creative practices for retailers to innovate