One of my favorite parts of hosting a yearly conference for retail store owners is sharing the tools I use (and love) to market, support, and get insight into my brick-and-mortar store.

These tools can seriously support and streamline your retail business—and they made great door prizes as sponsors at this year’s conference—but here’s a little more about what they do, who they’re for, and why I believe they’re valuable.

Listen to epsiode 251 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast for the 3 Tools for Retail Store Owners That’ll Save You Time (And Help Generate Revenue). Find shownotes to this episode at www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode251.

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website & Mastermind Group:  Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper 

When economic uncertainty rises, consumers don’t just “spend less,” they fundamentally change how they make decisions. Research shows that during periods of instability, people shift from “promotion-focused” thinking (seeking gains and opportunities) to “prevention-focused” thinking—avoiding losses and protecting what they have.

Your customers aren’t just being more careful with money; they’re operating from an entirely different psychological framework.

If you, as a retailer, can’t adapt your marketing strategy to better fit this mindset, it’ll be difficult to grow or even maintain your current sales or recover from a dip.

Listen to episode 250 for six behavioral strategies to build certainty in uncertain times. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode250.

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website & Mastermind Group:  Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper 

I’m going to be honest with you, I can’t summarize the tariffs situation for you—too much is happening at once and you never know when it’ll change again. That said, what I can do is share solutions and strategies to navigate these tariffs as an indie retailer.

With creativity, strategy, and a proactive approach, you can minimize disruption, protect your profit margins, and even uncover new opportunities. 

In this episode, we’re going to cover both traditional and out-of-the-box tariff solutions independent retailers can use to navigate the increased tariffs with confidence. For show notes and resources mentioned in this episode visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode243.

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website & Mastermind Group:  Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper 

The people you surround yourself with constantly influence everything you do, from the clothing you wear to how you run your business to what beliefs you hold! 

And while you can counteract some of this subconscious conditioning with your thoughts, it’s hard to do that if you don’t recognize the types of people you surround yourself with in the first place. 

In today’s episode, I’m sharing a bit of my backstory, the limiting beliefs I’ve overcome, and how changing the types of people I surround myself with has made a world of difference in my life.

For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode160.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

In Q4 of 2022, I found myself reverting to old thought patterns, adding more onto my already full plate, and finally driving myself to burnt-out exhaustion. It was a very tough season that anyone could find themselves in. 

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my experience with the river of misery, the thoughts that were keeping me there, and the four ways that I was able to get to the other side of burnout. 

For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode159. 

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

After several years of attending AmericasMart in Atlanta, I was thrilled to attend a new-to-me wholesale market: Las Vegas Market! 

We had so much fun seeing how Las Vegas Market compares to AmericasMart, connecting with vendors, and meeting up with members of Master Shopkeepers. 

Listen in to hear what I learned at Las Vegas Market and how this market experience stacked up against our tried and true favorite in Atlanta.

For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode158.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

In this bonus episode of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast I’m sharing some Savvy Shopkeeper updates and making an announcement!

• Follow me on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/
• Learn more about The CoLab Events here: https://thecolabevents.com/
• If you want to learn more about Master Shopkeepers or apply to join, click here: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/groupmembership
• If you want to get on the waitlist for the first Savvy Shopkeeper Virtual Conference, click here: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/waitlist

I’ll be back with regular episodes next week where I’ll share my takeaways from the Las Vegas Market.

Master Shopkeeper Stories are back! The first of the series is Anne, a Master Shopkeeper member.

Anne was set to take over her father’s consulting business when he retired. But another idea nagged at her: opening, running, and scaling a retail store. 

Anne’s dream took off quickly, with her first location turning a profit in her second year of business and her second location opening soon after. While growing Peachtree Street, Anne continued parenting her three children on her own. 

Listen in to learn more about Anne’s journey, how she balances single parenthood with shopkeeping, and how Master Shopkeepers has supported her through it all. 

For show notes, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode157. 

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Joining a business mastermind is both rewarding and intimidating, especially if you’ve never participated in one before! 

If you’re considering joining a business mastermind, then this episode is where you should start. Listen in to learn why masterminds are so valuable, the six things you should consider before joining, and why Master Shopkeepers is the best group coaching option for independent brick-and-mortar store owners.

For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode156. 

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

You’ve probably heard the term SEO before, but understanding what it means, why it’s essential, and how to implement it can be challenging! 

In today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can get more potential customers to visit your retail store’s website with six simple yet powerful search engine optimization fields. 

For show notes, including links to the SEO tools mentioned in this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode155.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Every January, I’m excited to visit AmericasMart in Atlanta. Their annual market week is when we put in our orders for lots of the merchandise we carry in our store. It’s also an excellent opportunity to reconnect with our vendors, discover up-and-coming brands, and meet retailers from around the country. 

I always learn something new at AmericasMart, and today, I’m sharing my takeaways with you! Listen in to learn how the pandemic has affected the market, what prep work I do to get ready, and how to best navigate this massive trade center. 

For show notes, including links to any resources I’ve mentioned, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode154.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

There’s a question that keeps lots of shopkeepers up at night: “How am I making money, but not making any money?!” 

They have revenue coming into their business, but they’re still unable to turn a profit or pay themselves. Unfortunately, that question will continue to keep them tossing and turning without a clear understanding of their numbers.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can get that crystal clear understanding of where your business stands—along with personalized coaching from yours truly! 

Listen in to hear about one of my best, simple tools for indie retailers, the Retail Profit Pie, and how you can get yours made FOR you through January 21, 2023. 

For show notes, including the link to get your personalized Retail Profit Pie, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode153. 

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

If you dream of being your own boss and are still working in a full-time career, this episode is for you! 

In fact, this episode was inspired by two of our Master Shopkeepers members, Kate and Kristin. They’re both working in full-time careers and are store owners. They recently asked me a series of questions about how I took the leap from full-time, steady-paycheck-employee to going all-in on entrepreneurship. 

Listen in to learn how I managed a full-time career while shopkeeping and building a family, what I needed before quitting my career, and what I wish I had done differently along the way. 

For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode152.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Have you said “no” to something that could have been a game-changer for your business? If so, it’s not too late to revisit it—or to say “yes” to the next opportunity that comes your way. In this episode, I go over mindset traps such as fear of change, imposter syndrome, skepticism, and how to overcome these mindset traps.

If any of these mindset traps pull at your strings visit my blog at www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode242 for show notes and resources.

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website & Mastermind Group:  Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper 

One of the most important steps in opening a retail business is signing your lease. 

In today’s episode, I’m sharing ten tips about brick-and-mortar leases. Listen in to learn why you NEED a lease, a few helpful clauses/terms to look for, and who should sign your lease with you depending on where you live. 

Whether it’s your first time signing a commercial lease for a brick-and-mortar space or your lease is coming up for renewal, these ten tips will help you navigate this tricky process. 

For show notes, including any resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode151.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

So many retail business owners open stores for flexibility and freedom, but all too often, that gets replaced with the hustle and grind. Our businesses tend to consume our whole lives, which makes us feel out of alignment. 

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my favorite quick exercise for evaluating what I’m doing well, what I could improve on, and what I want to accomplish in the six key areas of my life. Listen to learn how to do this exercise yourself and get a free worksheet to guide you!

For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in today’s episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode150.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

When it comes to making decisions, it’s all too easy to get bogged down by mental drama. That’s why it is so helpful for your mental health as a business owner to LEAN ON DATA.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing five examples of decisions that are easier to make with data AND how data-driven decisions can significantly lighten your mental load. Listen in to learn about this powerful concept!

For show notes, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode149. 

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

When I think back to BEFORE I opened my retail store, I remember the excitement, nervousness…and a person who truly had no idea what they were doing! I didn’t know what I didn’t know, and I had NO idea how much would be involved with opening. 

I was okay with not knowing. But goodness, I would have appreciated some form of guidance or a list to check off through it all!

In today’s episode, I’m sharing one of my best resources with you: my Checklist for Opening a Brick and Mortar Store. Listen to this quick episode to learn what the checklist covers, who it’s for, and how it can help you with your first (or second, or third!) retail store opening. 

For show notes, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode148.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

After months of deliberating, considering, and evaluating, I recently made the hard decision to close the Shopkeeper’s Lab and focus exclusively on Master Shopkeepers.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing some of the GOOD that can come from a tough decision. Because as much as I work on my mindset,  I never want to act like I have “perfected” doing hard things or that I don’t feel any emotion in my businesses.

Listen in to learn why I came to this decision, how group members reacted, and all of the positives I’ve learned through this process.

For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode147.

Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Earlier this year, I launched the Savvy Shopkeeper Quiz. After taking the quiz, you’ll know what stage of your shopkeeping journey you’re in and get a few free resources hand-picked with shopkeepers like you in mind. It’s beneficial for shopkeepers to understand WHERE they are on their journey, and the quiz gives shopkeepers that clarity! 

In today’s episode, I’m diving deep into the fifth stage of the shopkeeping journey: the Retail CEO stage. Listen in to learn what makes Retail CEOs unique and the ten characteristics that best describe shopkeepers at this stage.

For show notes, including any resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode142.

For show notes, including links to the resources mentioned throughout this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode141.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Discover how one shop owner turned a surprise visit and a one-hour coaching call into a 50% increase in retail sales! In Episode 241 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, Kathy Cruz shares insights, tips, and lessons from this inspiring success story. Learn how strategic action, even with a low AOV, can drive growth.

For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode240.

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website & Mastermind Group:  Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper 

Thank you for listening, subscribing, and telling me how helpful this podcast is to YOU and your business!

I'm celebrating this milestone by doing something I've never done before. Taking a break!

I'll be back in November with new episodes. 

Listen to this shortie episode to find out why and how I'll be celebrating during my break. 

Want to stay in touch? Sign up for newsletter on the home page of my website: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/ and follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/

Have a great October!

The 2022 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat is over, and I have SO much to share with you! I’ve only been home a few days, and I’m still processing all of the magical moments from this year’s retreat at Frügthaven Farm.

One thing I am ready to share with you, though, is a recap of my presentation about retail planning. Listen in to learn about Poor Planning Polly, what her year looks like, and the solution to her woes. 

For show notes, including links to the resources mentioned throughout this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode141.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Finding a planner that meets the needs of independent retailers has been a struggle for far too long.

I’ve heard countless shopkeepers tell me that they’ve tried planners only to find out they don’t offer what they need…and then the planner ends up in the garbage, with both money and paper wasted. 

Thankfully, the search for the perfect planner is finally over! The Savvy Shopkeeper DIGITAL Planner is here to help you grow as a person, a small business owner, and a retailer for the next 12 months. 

Listen in to learn all about this detailed, multi-faceted business tool made just for shopkeepers. For show notes, including the direct link to buy your copy of the planner, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode140.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

When your store is brand new (or still just a dream!), it’s challenging to think about the future because you’re focused on the now.

During my Aspiring Retailer and Savvy Starter stages, knowing how to plan would have been incredibly helpful. And now that I’ve learned about planning, it’s a key part of my journey as a shopkeeper!

Listen in to the five things indie retailers aren’t taught—but should know!—about planning. 

For show notes, including links to the resources mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode139.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said just grab a “good old pen and paper” on the podcast. Not only am I a fan of getting things out of my head, but I’m also a fan of writing things down, so I don’t forget them.

But after five years of paper piling up on my desk, I was beyond frustrated. I never felt I could find what I was looking for, and my notes overwhelmed me! 

So this year, I switched from paper to digital note-taking, and it’s been revolutionary for me. Listen in to learn why I love taking notes digitally, what hardware I’m using, and how you can make this switch for yourself. 

For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode138.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at https://savvyshopkeeper.com/

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Julie had always loved to craft as a hobby. After the loss of her newborn son, Julie needed something to do with her hands—and from there, her business bloomed.

Now, with 25 years of retail business ownership under her belt, Julie’s business is blooming once again. Attending the 2021 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat changed Julie’s perspective and helped her step into her role as CEO.

Listen in to hear Julie’s incredible story, how her business has blossomed this year compared to last, and her three pieces of advice for retail store owners after 25 years of experience.

• Heart ‘N Home on the web, Instagram, and Facebook

• Explore the Savvy Shopkeeper group memberships

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

As a people person with a passion for numbers, Brittany had always dreamed of owning her own business. With five years of experience as a certified public accountant in hand, Brittany was ready for a new challenge: purchasing an existing vendor shop. 

Listen in to learn Brittany’s best tips for running a vendor market, how she keeps her financials clean, the key employee that contributes to her store’s success, and what she’s learned from being in Master Shopkeepers.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

One of the things that shopkeepers struggle with the most is time management. It seems like there’s a never-ending list of tasks and just not enough time in the day.

Time management, though, is a learned skill. There’s no magic pill, system, or solution that adds more time to your day, but you CAN get better at managing your time!

Listen in to learn how I manage my time and the KEY mindset shift that has made all the difference for me through five years of running two businesses. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode135.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Shopkeeper Stories are back! We’re kicking off this round with Jessica Thompson, owner of Bee Joyful Shop in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Jessica started her journey as a maker with just one product: reusable beeswax food wraps. After several years of showing at markets and selling at a monthly community event, Jessica was ready to open her eco refill shop in October of 2020. 

Visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode134 to listen in to learn more about Jessica’s journey, how her savvy social media presence supports her business, and what she loves most about being a member of Master Shopkeepers.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

In this bonus episode, I'm sharing a recent experience I had where I attended a good friend's small business retreat and the "mental drama" that unfolded before I committed to attending.

Our thinking often holds us back but it doesn't have to be this way!

The power of connecting in real life is craved more than ever and it's something I personally craved and needed too, even it my brain was telling me otherwise.

The cart to ticket sales for the 2022 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat WILL close on Monday, August 15, 2022 at 4pm EST.  To learn more and grab your seat, visit here: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/retreat

To learn more about Megan and The Mompreneur Guide, visit here: https://themompreneurguide.com/

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Savvy Shopkeeper Get Traffic Conference

Sunday & Monday, May 18-19, 2025

Venue: Biographie, Lakewood Ohio (west of Cleveland)

Join us for a 2-day, high-impact conference designed exclusively for independent retailers. With a limited number of seats, this event cuts through the fluff to deliver actionable workshops that will transform both your foot traffic and e-commerce strategies.

Expect intimate, hands-on sessions led by industry experts, powerful networking opportunities, and life-changing insights to grow your business with confidence and clarity. Get ready for real transformation that drives results.

Ticket sales are live! 

https://savvyshopkeeper.com/conference/

Growing the online part of your business takes time and effort. Just like our brick-and-mortar spaces, it’s essential to dedicate some energy to this part of our business. Online marketing is crucial to growing and building a solid omnichannel retail business.

In Master Shopkeepers, a group member with a fantastic brand—and some experience in marketing before opening her retail business!—recently asked for tips on growing the new eCommerce part of her business. Listen in to hear the nine marketing tips I shared with her to help her grow her eCommerce store. 

For show notes, including links to any resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode133. 

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Each year, I survey the Savvy Shopkeeper community to learn more about you, your struggles, and how Savvy Shopkeeper can better help you on your shopkeeping journeys. 

I get to know our group members pretty well, but the survey gives me an opportunity to learn more about podcast listeners and email subscribers, too! 

Listen in to learn more about this year’s survey results, what I’ve learned from it, and how your responses are guiding the future of Savvy Shopkeeper. 

For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode132. 

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

One of the most underutilized yet affordable and EASY marketing tools for retailers is…

…email marketing.

Why is it so underutilized? There are lots of reasons! However, many of the reasons I hear from retailers are mindset roadblocks we put in our own way. 

Listen in to learn the top eight roadblocks I hear time and time again. And be sure to stick around to the end to learn about the first-ever Savvy Shopkeeper Email Marketing Challenge and how you can join! 

Sign up for the challenge at  www.savvyshopkeeper.com/emailchallenge! And if you’d like to read the show notes for this episode, visit  www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode131.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

There are two schools of thought regarding the current economy and how it affects independent retail businesses. 

Group number one says, “Don’t listen to all the hype and negativity in the media. Retailers are NOT struggling right now, and many are up!”

Group number two says, “Inflation is on the rise. We see it everywhere, and there’s no denying it. No one is shopping, my local economy and residents are hurting, and sales are way down.”

Whichever school you subscribe to, we can all agree that the economy affects every retailer differently! Listen to today’s episode to learn what you can do to protect your business both in the current economic state and whenever you face a cash flow crunch in the future.

For show notes, including links to all of the resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode130.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

“Automation” can be intimidating, especially when you have to invest your time and effort into setting up new software or learning a new system. 

But automation is a massive timesaver for indie retail business owners! It’s one of the best ways that we can work LESS. Best of all, the time we can save through automating our repetitive, day-to-day tasks can be put towards the big ideas that help us profit more and grow!

Listen in to learn what automation is, why it’s helpful, and the ten tasks that all retailers should consider automating. For show notes, including links to any resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode129.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

It’s easy to get stuck in autopilot when we’re marketing our indie retail businesses, especially when we’ve heard the same marketing “rules” over and over again! 

One of the most common rules you’ll hear is to focus 80 percent of your social media content on engaging or educational content, and the other 20 percent on selling. 

But with social media coming in a distant second (or even dead last, in some studies) compared to other marketing efforts, the return on your social media effort might not be reflected in your sales! 

So, where should you focus your effort instead? Listen in to learn where the 80/20 misconception comes from and how to actually apply it to your marketing strategy. For show notes, including links to any resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode128.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

I'm hosting a FREE masterclass on Monday, June 27, 2022, at 2 PM EST to help you create a cash flow management system! 

Listen to today’s episode to learn why I’m hosting this free masterclass, what you can expect to learn if you attend, and some essential base knowledge to help you prep for the class. 

Register for the free Cash is Queen Masterclass at https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/cashflow!

For show notes and links to all resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode127.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

I’m excited to bring you a new intermittent series called Shopkeeper Guest Interviews. Many talented store owners in our Master Shopkeepers and Shopkeeper’s Lab groups have different experiences, knowledge, and perspectives than me—and I want to share their ideas with you. 

Today’s guests are Dani and Tim Martin. They’re the owners of The Cotton Shed Market, a vendor market located in Bryant, Arkansas, and the home decor store High Cotton Decor (located inside their vendor store!). They’ve worked together for nearly 6 years and married for 17. 

Listen in to hear Dani and Tim’s seven tips for working with your spouse…and staying married! For show notes, visit https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode126.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Today, I’m sharing a coaching moment with Sam, the owner of Heck Studios. Sam was our first hire at The Salvaged Boutique six years ago and has done tons of design work for Savvy Shopkeeper. She also writes our weekly newsletter!

On a recent call together, Sam told me about a viral TikTok she’d posted for her custom embroidery business—and how she was now flooded with the inquiries she’d dreamed of. Listen in to hear me coach Sam through her feelings of overwhelm and embrace this new period of abundance in her business. 

For show notes, including links to Sam’s viral TikTok videos, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode125.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

While many of us turn to the internet when we have a specific business-related question, books are a way to go deeper on the more abstract ideas we grapple with as business owners. 

In today’s episode, I’m sharing 8 books I’ve found valuable and helpful along my entrepreneurial journey. From money mindset to habit building to time management, these books have changed my perspective and helped me grow as a business owner. 

For show notes, including links to purchase any of the books I’ve mentioned, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode124.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Mark your calendars for the Faire Wholesale Winter Market

The Faire Wholesale Winter Market 2025 is scheduled for January 22–24, with early access for Faire Insiders beginning on January 21.

Traveling to market might not make sense for you this year. That’s why I’m here with some tips for creating an impactful and fun virtual buying-day for yourself. Consider strategically dedicating a FULL day to Faire’s Winter Market instead.

Join the Faire Wholesale Winter Market and maximize your buying this season.

*Some of the links or codes I share are affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you make a purchase after using them—at no extra cost to you. I recommend these products because I genuinely believe they’re helpful for shopkeepers, not because of the commission I might earn. Please only purchase items if you feel they’re truly useful and will help you reach your goals.

• [00:01:37] Listener Shoutout to Katie at Affordable Treasures
• [00:02:33] The Benefits of Wholesale Buying In-Person
• [00:03:57] The Costs of Wholesale Buying In-Person
• [00:04:45] Why a buying trip might not make sense for a store owner
• [00:06:31] Maximize Buying with the Faire Wholesale Winter Market
• [00:09:20] The Costs of Wholesale Buying at the Faire Wholesale Winter Market
• [00:11:20] Tips on Attending an In-Person Market
• [00:12:19] How to Have an Impactful Virtual Buying Day at the Faire Wholesale Winter Market
• [00:12:28] 3 Ways to Make Shopping the Faire Wholesale Winter Market a Fun and Productive Day
• [00:15:25] Preparing a Buying Strategy for the Faire Wholesale Winter Market
• [00:17:25] How to Find the Right Vendors at Faire’s Wholesale Winter Market
• [00:18:42] Why the Faire Wholesale Winter Market is a Gamechanger for Independent Retailers

For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode240.

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers

We often think that our store, the physical space, or the merchandise generates revenue. But if we dig a little deeper, our BRAIN creates revenue. 

Listen in to learn how our brains create value, who we need to listen to most, and what steps you can take to solve the problems that matter to your customers.

For show notes, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode123.

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

Being an entrepreneur is challenging, I get it! But the lows don't define us and they don't have to consume us either. 

Once retailers can accept that there will always be highs and lows in retail and in life, the not-so-good moments can become easier to handle and process.

YOUR thinking is an incredible asset. Do you want to choose thinking that keeps you down and/or in the dumps OR do you want to choose thinking that accepts there's both good and bad in business all while keeping you moving forward?

YOU get to choose!

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper) 

I hinted at this a couple weeks ago but I'm currently experiencing a "season" in business, my own store is expanding!

Needless to say, a store expansion is a BIG deal and has required quite a bit of my time.

This means some things had to get pushed down on my priority list because our Grand Reopening became THE priority. 

In episode 120, I shared that the store I co-own with my sister was expanding. In this bonus episode, I thought I'd share some quick updates. Updates about expanding, the retreat, and the Master Shopkeepers application which is opening up soon!

Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper

Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)