Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy
Retail leadership isn’t what it used to be — and neither are you.After 30+ years of navigating the realities of store floors, boardrooms, restructures, and reinventions, I’ve learned this: the gap between what retail leaders need to grow and what companies actually provide is wider than ever. Promotions don’t come with clarity. Expectations rise, but context disappears. And while the metrics may shift, the pressure never does.This podcast is for the retail leader who's already proven themselves — and still wants more.This podcast is for the experienced retail leader who wants more — not more work, but more direction, m...
NetConV is Changing Grocery eCommerce
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In this episode of Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy, I sit down with Lucas Piccinin, founder of NetConV, a platform designed to bring real-time expiration date transparency to grocery eCommerce.
We explore how grocers can turn a persistent operational headache into a competitive differentiator by:
Integrating seamlessly with existing ERP systemsUsing algorithms to dynamically price products based on freshnessOvercoming cultural and operational resistance to digital transformationLucas also shares his founder journey—from selling groceries online to spending three years perfecting the tech—and why U.S. groc...
Most Retailers Are Not AI-Ready!
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Everyone’s talking about AI, but few retail leaders are asking the deeper question:
Is your company truly AI-ready—or just overwhelmed with data?
In this episode, I sit down with, Abhijit Patharkar, the co-founder of Nexlytix to unpack the unspoken barriers to effective AI in retail: siloed systems, misaligned storytelling, broken decision-making, and the myth that more dashboards mean more clarity.
We cover:
What AI readiness really looks likeWhy storytelling must change based on who's reading the dataThe danger of buil...Listening is a Leadership Skill
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What if your customer feedback system could make you a better leader—not just improve your metrics?
In this episode of Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy, we’re joined by Eric Sangerma, Head of Growth at Simplesat—the customer feedback platform trusted by brands around the world.
Simplesat helps retail leaders capture, interpret, and act on customer sentiment in real time. But Eric’s philosophy goes even deeper. He believes feedback is the foundation for great leadership—if you’re brave enough to hear it.
In this episode, we...
Great Stores Still Stop Us in Our Tracks!
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Some stores just stop you.
You walk in, and for a moment—maybe longer—you forget you're in a place built to sell. You're in something more. A feeling. A point of view. A brand that knows who it is.
This episode is a love letter to those stores—and the people who know how to spot them.
Steve sits down with two of his favorite retail minds (and friends), Jack Stratton and Ian Scott, for a fast-moving conversation that feels more like a pub chat than a pane...
What Brazil Taught Me About Leadership with Paula Macaggi
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Many retail leaders operate with a limited perspective, often assuming that their market’s approach is the gold standard. But in a world where consumer behaviors, technology, and retail strategies vary dramatically by region, leaders who fail to think globally risk falling behind.
The challenge isn’t just understanding different markets—it’s learning how to apply global insights in a way that drives innovation and growth.
In this episode, Steve sits down with PAULA MACAGGI, host of Off Bounds and a global retail expert, to explore how retail leadershi...
From Sneakers to AI Retail Leadership with Jenna Posner!
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AI is transforming retail at an unprecedented pace, and in this episode of Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy, we explore what leaders need to know now.
From sneaker culture to digital transformation, Jenna Flatman Posner shares how her background as an elite athlete shaped her approach to leadership, strategy, and innovation.
We break down AI’s real impact in retail—cutting through the hype to reveal practical applications, branding challenges, and the evolving balance between human expertise and automation. Discover how AI is reshaping customer experiences, store operations, and leader...
What Got You Here - Won’t Get You There!
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When Retail Stops Growing You, What’s Next?
No one tells you what happens when you outgrow your company.
You hit every metric, you do everything right, and yet the growth stops. Your company still expects results, but they’re not developing you. They’re not stretching you. And if you’re being honest, you’re starting to feel it.
The hard truth? Most senior leaders won’t admit when they’ve hit this wall. They keep showing up, running the same play, hoping somethi...
Retail Leaders Are Doing Innovation All Wrong – Here’s How to Fix It - Matt Mueller
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Retail leaders talk about innovation, but are they solving the right problems? Too often, companies chase the latest trends—AI, automation, new products—without stepping back to ask: What actually drives transformation?
In this episode of Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy, we sit down with Matt Mueller, innovation strategist and author of The Mindful Innovator, to discuss his upcoming Campus Masterclass: Master the Future of Leadership – Strategies for Lasting Transformation.
We break down:
The biggest mistake...Retail - Stop Making Everything So Complicated!
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Retail is more complicated than it needs to be, and in this episode of Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy, we cut through the noise with Walter Holbrook, a seasoned retail executive with over 60 years of experience—from stockroom to boardroom.
Walter shares the hard truths about leadership, execution, and why common sense is missing in today’s retail landscape. He challenges leaders to rethink how they approach hiring, communication, and operational execution, emphasizing the need for honesty, grit, and a willingness to embrace friction as a path to improvement.
From s...
From Store to HQ: Building a Common Language for Success
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In today's episode, titled "HQ vs. Store: Bridging the Divide," we finish our two-part series - Everything Works at HQ!
We're going to explore the critical need for building a shared vision between your retail stores and corporate headquarters. The secret lies with effective communication and alignment.
Bridging the Divide: Insights from Stores to Transform HQ Strategies
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US vs THEM!
This battle in retail has been in existence since Retail began.
US - Stores vs THEM - Home Office.
Why can’t they see eye to eye?
What has hindered these two teams from establishing a mutually beneficial and successful relationship?
This two-part series - Everything Works at HQ. Part one titled “What HQ can learn from Stores”, is a candid exploration of the oft-overlooked wisdom that our stores hold for corporate headquarters. The goal is to bridge t...
Outwork, Outlearn, Outlead: Brian Librach's Retail Leadership Roadmap!
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Pick up your book: The Retail Leader's Roadmap! HERE!
What's up, my friend? You're in for a real treat with this episode featuring Brian. We're going deep into the nitty gritty details of his proven blueprint for accelerating your career growth as a retail leader.
Right off the bat, Brian opens up about the profound influence his father had on instilling that insatiable drive to outwork, outlearn, and outlead everyone around him. The dude exudes an unwavering determination that's truly contagious.
He breaks down the strategic planning...
Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Women of Color in Retail Leadership
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Meet Kimberly Lee Minor, a dynamic force in retail leadership with over 25 years of industry experience. She's held pivotal roles in renowned organizations like Footlocker Global, London Fog, and Bath & Body Works. Currently serving as CEO of Bumbershoot, LLC, Kimberly's expertise lies in providing cultural and market insights for inclusive, equitable, and diverse representation across brand, content, product, and customer experience.
Kimberly's passion extends beyond business success. She's the founder of the Women of Color Retail Alliance (WOCRA), dedicated to closing the gender parity gap in retail leadership. As an educator...
Need Directions...Start Here!
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Who says you can't be the hero in your own retail leadership journey? I remember the days of feeling overlooked in the bustling world of retail, unsure how to break through the noise. Now, as your guide, I'll take you through the valleys and peaks of leadership in the retail space. This heartfelt session is designed to acknowledge your fears and aspirations as we explore the often ignored yet remarkable adaptability and problem-solving capabilities that retail leaders possess. Equipped with insights from my upcoming book "The Approachable Leader," we'll delve into the 'SMILE...
A Ted Lasso Guide for Transforming Retail Leadership
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Ready to revolutionize your retail leadership skills? Trust us, you don't want to miss this insightful discussion as we uncover seven transformative leadership lessons from the hit TV show, Ted Lasso. We promise that embracing these principles will not only elevate your impact on your team, but will also boost the profitability of your stores, and catapult your retail career to new heights.
What if you could build a stronger rapport with your team by simply being seen? In this episode, we emphasize the importance of acknowledging your team members and...
5 Urgent Retail Leadership Skills to Learn Now!
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Worthy Retail News
Are you ready to elevate your retail leadership skills to the next level? In today's episode, we're dissecting the crucial elements of successful leadership - time, support, and capacity.
We'll guide you through five transformative areas to enhance your leadership prowess: amplify your retainability, decode feedback, craft a robust retention blueprint, bolster support, and become an irreplaceable asset to your team.
We're also shining a spotlight on an innovative model, 'SMILE,' that has remarkably transformed my leadership journey. T...
New Market, New Manager
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You've recently been promoted. You’re a new leader in a new market. Are you really ready for this major change?
Listen in as we discuss the challenges and tips for new leaders in a new market, emphasizing the importance of assessing the market, understanding competition, building relationships, simplifying communication, and creating a positive culture!
Key Highlights:
[01:45] It’s a big deal when you get promoted into another market.
[03:01] Dealing with fear and imposter syndrome as a new leader in a ne...
How to Get Promoted Part 2
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Here’s part two of our episode on Why Retail Leaders Get Promoted.
We discuss the importance of strategic communication, authority, knowledge, and value articulation in advancing to the position of retail leader. Stay tuned!
Key Highlights:
[03:23] Your communication needs to be strategic.
[05:00] Building authority and knowledge is key to successful retail leadership
[13:35] Who on your team would you take with you when starting a new business unit?
[15:05] The lack of strategic communication can prevent you fro...
Cracking the Code: Harnessing the Power of the Enneagram for Retail Leadership Success
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Do you want to know the secret weapon of good leaders? How are they able to lead and guide their whole team to success? The answer lies in understanding their personality.
In this episode learn more about the Enneagram and how it can help you get to know your team better so you can lead them better. Stay tuned!
Key Highlights:
[00:01] Every good leader has a secret weapon
[01:44] The best way to lead people is to get to know them on a...
Three Reasons Why Leaders Don't Get Promoted - Part I
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Have you ever missed out on a promotion? Ever wondered why your management hasn't noticed your efforts? Before you jump to conclusions, listen in as we look at the reasons why leaders don't get promoted. You might learn a thing or two!
Key Highlights
[00:01] Getting passed over for a promotion
[02:07] Why many retail workers are looking for new jobs right now
[04:52] Are you ready for the promotion?
[05:33] The importance of focused time in doing your role
[08:28] W...
THE LAW OF LEGACY
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What are you doing in your life right now to leave a lasting legacy?
As retail leaders, we are often so focused on our daily responsibilities that we fail to consider the long-term impact we may have on others, particularly our team.
Listen in and learn as we talk about the Law of Legacy!
Key Highlights:
[00:01] How your legacy is being developed and curated daily
[02:05] Do you need to be liked as a leader?
[05:18] What Steve wa...
THE LAW OF NAVIGATION
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Do you know where you want to go with your career? Have you determined which path is best for you and your team?
As a retail leader, knowing how to navigate your way through your leadership journey is vital.
Listen in and learn as we talk about the Law of Navigation!
Key Highlights:
[00:01] What’s in it for me?
[01:47] The significance of an Atlast & MapQuest
[05:00] The consequence of using Waze & Google Maps
[08:08] How are you...
THE LAW OF EXPLOSIVE GROWTH
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As a retail leader, your success is determined by the relationships you cultivate and encircle yourself with. So, how do you ensure that you are surrounded by the right people?
Let's talk about the Law of Explosive Growth in this episode and learn how to grow, develop, export, and even retain great talent and future leaders from your own team.
Stay tuned!
Key Highlights
[00:01] A leader is only as good as whom they surround themselves with
[00:49] The concept of Explosive Growth
THE LAW OF TIMING
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Timing is everything when it comes to leadership success.
In this episode, we will discuss how to identify the right time for action, how to be proactive instead of reactive, and why patience is a crucial element in timing.
Don't miss this insightful and practical discussion on how to apply the Law of Timing to your retail leadership strategy.
Tune in now!
Key Highlights
[00:01] Timing is everything in sports: A lesson I learned from my highschool coach
...
THE LAW OF SACRIFICE
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Have you ever had to make a tough choice that required sacrificing something of value for the greater good of your team or organization? If so, then you won't want to miss the latest episode of the Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy podcast.
In this episode, we explore The Law of Sacrifice, one of the most important and challenging laws of leadership discussed in John Maxwell's book, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership.
Discover the principles of sacrifice and what it takes to be a leader who is willing to ma...
THE LAW OF PRIORITIES
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People frequently confuse busyness for productivity, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. As retail leaders, where we spend our time and how much energy we put into something reveal a lot about us.
In this episode, let's talk about the Law of Priorities and discover the power of focusing on what's important NOW. You don’t want to miss out on this one!
Key Highlights
[02:15] Understanding the Law of Priorities as a retail leader
[03:17] The...
THE LAW OF BIG MO
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A leadership that lacks momentum is like a parked car: it can't get you where you want to go. Momentum, or the “Big Mo,” is one of the most important elements you need as a retail leader. Without it, it will be hard to set anything in motion.
So, how do you gain momentum and ensure that you always have enough fuel to propel your team to victory? Listen in as we delve into the Law of Big Mo.
Key Highlights:
[00:01] Momentum is your lifeli...
THE LAW OF VICTORY
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It's easier to gauge when and how you'll win in sports. Unfortunately, this is not always the case in business. In this episode, let’s dive deep into the idea of victory in the retail business and the importance of winning not just by yourself but as a team.
If you’re a retail leader seeking strategies to inspire your team toward a unified goal, don’t miss this episode on the Law of Victory.
Key Highlights:
[00:01] The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat<...
THE LAW OF BUY-IN
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Do you have difficulty getting your team on board? Isn't it frustrating? Here’s the thing, maybe your team doesn't buy into your leadership because they haven't bought into you as their leader yet.
In this episode, let’s talk about the Law of Buy-in and how it can help you develop a team that is not just compliant but is instead committed to you as their retail leader. Stay tuned!
Key Highlights:
[00:01] Why are so many retail leaders frustrated?
[01:15] Let’s talk a...
THE LAW OF THE PICTURE
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Unlock the key to long-term success for your team and organization.
In this episode, we explore the importance of having a clear vision and a long-term plan for success. We also discuss the law of the picture and how it can help leaders navigate challenges and changes in the market. Tune in to learn how to create a roadmap for success and transform your team into a well-oiled machine.
Don't miss this opportunity to help your team reach its full potential and do great things together.
THE LAW OF EMPOWERMENT
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Are you looking to improve trust and communication in your organization? In this episode, we delve into the issue of mistrust among employees and explore how inefficient or irregular communication can contribute to this problem.
We also discuss the importance of empowering your team, particularly in the fast-paced world of retail, where decisions need to be made quickly. If you're a retail leader looking to foster a more positive and trusting work environment, don't miss this episode on the law of empowerment.
Key Highlights:
THE LAW OF THE INNER CIRCLE
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Do you have the right people in your inner circle? As a leader, this can make or break you since you are, as they say, "the sum of who you surround yourself with."
In this episode, let’s talk about the Law of the Inner Circle and dive deep into the process of building a solid support system. Are you ready? Stay tuned!
Key Highlights:
[00:01] The Law of the Inner Circle
[01:52] How your inner circle plays a factor in your leadership journey
...
THE LAW OF INTUITION
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As a leader, you are constantly faced with decisions. It is easy to become overwhelmed by pressure or anxiety, but exceptional leaders know when to trust their intuition.
In this episode, we'll talk about the Law of Intuition and how it can help you make better decisions for yourself and your team if you know how to use it correctly. You should not pass this up!
Key Highlights
[00:01] Intuition as a superpower
[06:45] Why is intuition vital as a leader?
[08:58] The i...
THE LAW OF CONNECTION
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Are you truly connected with your team? You may meet them frequently or speak with them on a regular basis, but this does not guarantee that a strong connection has been established. You might be asking why you need to connect. Is that truly necessary? Oh yes, it is.
In this episode, we delve into the Law of Connection and why it's so vital for retail leaders. If you want to maximize your influence and lead your team to success, you better stay tuned!
Key Highlights:
...
THE LAW OF MAGNETISM
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Human nature dictates that we gravitate toward those who have similar qualities to our own. The same holds true for the people we select to work with and the teams we create. But is sticking to our own kind a smart idea? Or is there a benefit to being receptive to people who are your complete opposites?
In this episode, let's look at the Law of Magnetism as it relates to leadership and building a well-balanced, cohesive team. Stay tuned!
Key Highlights:
[01:08] The Law of M...
THE LAW OF RESPECT
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One of the most valuable things you can achieve as a retail leader is to earn the respect of those around you. But it’s easier said than done, right?
Respect entails more than just people following your orders. It isn’t something that instantly comes with your leadership role or title. In this episode, we'll explore the Law of Respect to learn what it takes to truly give and receive it. You don't want to miss out on this!
Key Highlights:
[00:01] Let’s talk...
THE LAW OF SOLID GROUND
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Trust is the foundation of leadership. It is earned or it isn’t.
The LAW OF SOLID GROUND is a case for building a solid character, living with integrity, authenticity and discipline.
Character is the source of trust. We build our character by being scrupulously honest, even when it hurts.
To be authentic, we must be ourselves with everyone, not pretending to be something that we aren’t. Discipline comes from doing what needs to be done whether we like it or not.
As a...
THE LAW OF ADDITION
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Leadership is a process and it takes time to master, there’s no way around the process
Trust the processWhat is does influence really mean: Things may look bad now, but we have a plan in place to make it better.”LAW OF ADDITION
The law of addition focuses on how to add value to your team in order to create more leaders to grow. Leaders who pour into their teams create more leaders. We know we can use more authentic leadership these days.
True leaders ask “...
THE LAW OF PROCESS
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Leadership is a process and it takes time to master, there’s no way around the process
Trust the processWhat is does influence really mean: Things may look bad now, but we have a plan in place to make it better.”LAW OF PROCESS
Leaders are learners and their capacity to develop and improve their skills distinguishes leaders from their followers. The learning process is ongoing and a result of self-discipline and perseverance.As a retail leadership, you may want to get promoted to District manager or to Regional Director or you...THE LAW OF INFLUENCE
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Leadership is influence – nothing more, nothing less. ~ states that the greatness of a leader is not measured by the amount of money one makes or position one has, but by the number of lives one influences. Without influence, you will never be able to lead others.
ACRONYM FOR INFLUENCE
I - Integrity
You are what you are when you are alone.
N - Nurturing
Taking care of your people individually and guar...
