Rooted in Retail

What does it take to bring sustainability and authenticity into an everyday essential? Jen Eden, co-founder and CEO of Tampon Tribe, shares her journey of building a plastic-free, organic period care brand that’s making waves in retail. With a background in entrepreneurship, media, and marketing, Jennifer dives into what inspired her, how she connects with customers on a deeper level, and why trust and play matter in business.

In this episode, you’ll hear how she went from retail beginnings to scaling a mission-driven brand, the lessons learned along the way, and her advice for...

Ever feel like your store is your town’s best kept secret—but you’d really rather everyone know about you? That’s exactly how Taylor Sumrall of Taylor Made Designs in Opelika, Alabama feels. She and her mom have been running their family-owned gift and jewelry shop for years, getting amazing feedback from customers… but struggling with consistency in foot traffic.

In this Retail Therapy session, we’re joined again by our retail therapist, Bob Phibbs, who doesn’t hold back with honest, practical advice for Taylor. We dig into everything from refreshing her website and store displays...

Retail can feel like a never-ending hustle—but what if you had the right tools to manage stress, avoid burnout, and thrive? Chrystal Rose knows firsthand the highs and lows of being in retail. From dealing with guilt and overwhelm to understanding why effort doesn’t always guarantee success, she shares strategies for finding balance and regulating your nervous system.

In this episode, Chrystal opens up about her retail journey and offers practical advice for business owners who want to protect their energy while still growing their stores. If you’ve been feeling the weight of stress as a r...

Arieh Lowenstein is back for part two, and this time he’s diving even deeper into what makes independent retail thrive. From creating meaningful customer moments to shaping the right product mix, Ari shares how small shifts can make a big impact in-store. He also opens up about the lessons he would approach differently in his business and what he sees for the future of independent retail.

If you want practical insights on how to better understand your customers, adapt to today’s fast-changing market, and position your store for long-term success, this episode is packed with idea...

In this episode of Retail Therapy, host Crystal Valkaitis sits down with retail therapist Bob Phibbs and guest Lisa Greene to dig into one of her biggest challenges: finding qualified florists to help her business thrive.

Lisa opens up about the difficulty of hiring in a niche market, and Bob shares insights on spotting vocational skills, using qualifications to guide your hiring decisions, and getting creative with talent attraction through video and social media marketing. They also talk about why it’s okay when team members leave—and how to make the most of it.

If y...

Ari Lowenstein has done just about everything in retail: consulting, product development, and leading industry associations. Now, he has built his own stores. With Ari’s Pantry, he is bringing authentic Italian flavors to Texas and has already grown from one shop to four in less than two years.

In this episode, Ari opens up to Crystal about his bold approach to retail, why failure is part of the process, and how customer experience drives everything he does.

From a playful loyalty program where customers earn “tomatoes” instead of points to lasagna Thursdays that build commun...

Jennifer Shorter’s retail roots run deep—three generations deep, to be exact. As the owner of Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts in Michigan, she’s mastered the art of blending tradition with innovation while keeping her creative spark alive.

In this episode, Jennifer opens up about her unique retail journey, the surprising power of doing less, and why embracing change has been key to her long-term success. From adapting to shifting customer behaviors to creating events that keep people coming back, Jennifer shares the strategies—and mindset—that have helped her thrive without burning out.

If you’ve ev...

In this episode of Retail Therapy, host Crystal sits down with retail therapist Bob Phibbs and guest Linda Moore to unpack the strategies that keep your cash register ringing—not just today, but for years to come.

From attracting new shoppers to building loyalty with the ones you already have, Bob and Linda share insights on connecting with different generations, addressing your customers’ real “pain points,” and selling through systems that work.They also dig into why your content—and the energy behind it—can make or break your sales, plus how to speak directly to your male audienc...

Gift cards aren’t just convenient, they’re strategic. In this episode, we sit down with Larry Rubin, owner of Swipe It Gift Cards, to unpack how retailers can turn those little plastic cards into big opportunities for growth, loyalty, and stronger customer connections.

With decades of retail experience, Larry shares what most businesses are missing when it comes to gift cards and how to shift from “just having them” to using them intentionally to drive real results.

[1:49] Larry’s journey from retail life to launching Swipe It Gift Cards
[5:28] How retailers can rethink their gift...

We made it—episode 200! What a journey it’s been, and we’re so excited to celebrate this milestone with YOU.

In today’s special episode, Crystal Vilkaitis reflects on the highs and lows of her retail journey and shares a deeper, more personal conversation about what it really means to feel successful. From burnout and hustle culture to the power of taking a pause, Crystal opens up about finding contentment, freedom, and clarity—without losing ambition.

If you're feeling the pressure to do more or questioning what success should look like, this episode offers the perspe...

What’s really driving retail success in today’s world? In this dynamic EVOLVE panel episode, three powerhouse women—Barb Binkley (Cooper and Binkley Jewelers), Beth Rich (Mix It Up Gift and Home), and Miranda Heslip (Cloud Nine Pajamas)—share their real-world insights on what’s working right now in retail.

From creating loyal communities to planning events that actually drive foot traffic, to mastering email marketing that converts—this episode is packed with tips you can implement today.

What’s Inside:
[4:59] One thing retailers worry about that’s not worth the stress
[6:50...

In this insightful episode, Landon and Camille take us on their retail journey, sharing hard-earned lessons about what truly makes retail partnerships work—from knowing your brand story to compensating reps thoughtfully.

They dive into the most common challenges facing brands today and how communication, alignment, and intentional relationship-building can transform both sides of the retail equation. Whether you're an indie retailer or a growing brand, this conversation will help you rethink how you work with reps, source products, and create experiences that matter.

[2:18] Landon and Camille’s start in retail and what they've learned alon...

What can Disney fireworks, empowered employees, and “the little things” teach you about running a standout retail business? A lot more than you think. In this bonus episode, Vance Morris—a former Disney World executive turned customer experience strategist—dives into the principles that made Disney world-renowned for customer loyalty.

Vance shares how retailers can borrow from Disney’s playbook to elevate everyday interactions, boost retention, and outshine competitors—without a theme park budget. Whether it’s redefining your target market or empowering your team to resolve customer issues, this episode will inspire you to rethink your customer exper...

In this episode, Tanner takes the stage at EVOLVE to break down exactly how businesses can win with social media. From showing up consistently to staying authentic, Tanner shares actionable tips that helped him build a powerful online presence—and how you can do the same.

This episode is all about using content to build connection, credibility, and community. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, you’ll walk away with strategies to grow your brand through content that feels real and resonates.

[7:00] Why social media attention matters—and what it means fo...

Merchandising isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about strategy. In this episode, Ani Nersessian shares how to create a retail space that not only looks great but drives real results. She walks you through practical starting points, from visual tweaks to organizing product flow, all grounded in understanding what your customer truly needs.

Whether you’re setting up shop for the first time or giving your space a much-needed refresh, this episode will help you lay a solid foundation for smarter, more effective merchandising.

[1:45] Ani’s retail journey—and how she learned to design for the cust...

Think direct mail is dead? Think again. In this episode, we sit down with David, a seasoned direct mail expert who’s helped businesses of all sizes use physical marketing to drive real results. David shares how traditional mail is making a comeback—and how you can use it to stand out in a noisy digital landscape.

From building smarter (not bigger) mailing lists to launching your first campaign on a $500 budget, you’ll get practical, no-fluff advice for turning mail into a powerful marketing channel. David also breaks down whether direct mail works best solo o...

Think PR is just for big brands? Think again. In this episode, we explore how organic PR can actually outperform social media, influencers, and even paid ads—especially for local retailers. Learn how to write press releases that land, earn high-quality backlinks, and pitch your story in a way that drives real foot traffic.

You’ll also uncover the most common PR mistakes businesses make (and how to fix them), along with simple yet powerful strategies to get noticed by local media—without a big budget.

This episode is your crash course in high-impact, low-cost public...

In this special episode, we take you inside the opening keynote from EVOLVE, where the spotlight is on navigating change in your retail business with strength and resilience.

You’ll discover why your brain naturally resists change, how to reframe discomfort into growth, and even how to channel emotions like anger into purpose and momentum. From unexpected tariffs to tightening ad budgets, this episode is filled with actionable insights for retail leaders ready to thrive—even through tough times

[2:42] Why your brain is wired to resist change

[2:56] The comfort of fami...

What happens when a business is born out of mud runs, muscle pain, and a mission to help others heal? In this episode, we sit down with Natalie Gardner, co-owner of Dr. Doug’s Balms, to explore how a grassroots wellness brand scaled with heart, honesty, and a focus on progress—not perfection.

From magnesium-infused balms to mindset shifts for overwhelmed entrepreneurs, Natalie shares why staying rooted in purpose matters more than chasing trends. She also breaks down how retailers can embrace imperfection, lead with authenticity, and ask for what they truly need.

What do Disney-level customer experiences have to do with your bottom line? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, Vance Morris—a former Disney World executive turned customer experience strategist—reveals the secrets behind turning casual buyers into loyal fans.

Drawing from years of real-world experience at one of the world’s most customer-obsessed brands, Vance shares powerful strategies that retailers and e-commerce businesses can use to boost retention, create memorable brand moments, and stand out in a competitive market. From the underrated value of print ads to the magic behind intentional experi...

What does it really mean to be part of a thriving business community that understands the retail grind? In this bonus episode, Crystal Vilkaitis reveals the perks members get when they join IndERA—and it’s so much more than just another business mastermind.

From staying ahead in the ever-evolving retail landscape to unlocking exclusive access to tools, resources, and strategy, Crystal walks you through the six foundational pillars that set Indera apart from other business groups.

If you’re craving real-time business support, a strong network, and tangible growth in your digital presence—this episode...

What does it take to build a successful independent retail business—and keep it thriving for decades? Carol Schroeder, co-owner of Orange Tree Imports, joins us to share her journey as a retailer and local business leader. From launching a gift and gourmet shop to navigating the shift to e-commerce, Carol offers grounded insights on team leadership, community-driven business, and how to stay relevant in a changing retail landscape.

In this episode, you’ll learn how collaborative management can transform your store culture, why thinking of your online shop as a second storefront matters, and how independent reta...

How are tariffs shaping sourcing decisions and inventory management in retail? In this episode of Rooted in Retail, Nathan Sheth from Management-One breaks down the real impact of tariff changes on margins, supply chains, and operational efficiency.

Discover how to build a resilient sourcing strategy, evaluate new vendor partnerships, and optimize inventory to maintain cash flow and avoid costly overstock or stockouts. Nathan also shares insights on consumer behavior trends and practical habits that help retailers protect profitability.

If you want to strengthen your retail business against global disruptions, this episode is packed with actionable...

What makes great packaging more than just a pretty box? Julie Rotuno—a self-proclaimed “packaging nerd” and retail expert—joins us to break down the overlooked power of thoughtful packaging. From low-budget strategies to major industry trends, Julie shares how packaging shapes brand perception, impacts sustainability, and elevates customer experience.

In this episode, you'll learn how to approach packaging even on a tight budget, why materials matter more than ever, and what future-facing brands are doing to stand out on the shelf and in the hearts of consumers.

If you're building a product-based brand or just wan...

A strong brand is more than just a logo—it’s a feeling, a story, and sometimes… one powerful word.

In this episode, we follow Lucy’s incredible journey from retail to design school and into the future of interior design. She shares her insights on how branding becomes unstoppable when people catch on fast, why setting “unreasonable” rules might just be the best thing for your brand, and how to ride the waves of trends without losing your identity. Whether you're in retail, branding, or interior design, this conversation is packed with insights that will level up how you t...

Scaling isn’t the only path to growth—sometimes, the real magic lies in simply improving what’s already there.

In this After the Show segment, we dive into the powerful mindset shift from obsessing over scale to focusing on refinement. From optimizing just one customer touchpoint to enhancing your existing systems, this episode will inspire you to grow by getting better—not just bigger.

[2:21] Focusing on improving vs. the constant scale and growth

[2:39] Why improving can organically lead to business growth

[3:25] How to deliver incredible experiences using a simple framework

[4...

There’s retail—and then there’s retail with heart. In this episode, we explore how one shop owner built a thriving business by listening closely, staying intentional, and showing up authentically both in-store and online. This is your go-to guide for making your brand not just seen, but felt.

Ever walked into a store and felt the difference? That’s what Jan has created with Stocks Culinary Goods. Since 2012, she’s been flipping the script on traditional retail—curating local products with care, crafting content that hits home, and staying in step with trends without losing her brand’s...

What happens when you lose a business partner who was also your closest collaborator and friend? 

In this powerful episode, Michelle shares her journey through the retail world, her deep partnership, and how she’s navigating growth and grief after losing her business partner.

From building lasting rep-retailer relationships to finding strength in memory, this conversation is a tribute to purpose-driven business and human connection.

If you're a brand founder, rep, or retailer looking to deepen your partnerships and build a resilient business, Michelle’s story and insight will guide you with authenticity and h...

Running a retail business isn’t just about products—it’s about people.

In this After the Show segment, we dive into why connections matter and how you can start building and working your network with intention. From asking for help to putting yourself out there, today’s conversation is all about turning relationships into opportunities.

[1:30] How you can build a connection and work your connection
[6:20] You never know what kind of opportunity can show up in one connection
[7:15] Work your network and build them
[9:40] Reach out and ask for help
[10:16] Leverage...

What does it take to build a brand that stands out in the wholesale space? In this episode, Robin Kramer of Red Boot Consulting shares how she went from retail beginnings to helping product-based businesses grow with clarity, confidence, and heart. She opens up about honoring your unique skillset, making the most of trade shows, and why nurturing relationships is the key to long-term success.

If you're an indie brand, retailer, or creative entrepreneur looking to level up your wholesale game, Robin brings the wisdom you need.

 [3:02] Robin’s start in retail

Running a retail business can feel isolating—but it doesn’t have to be.  

In this After the Show segment, we’re talking about the power of community and why surrounding yourself with the right people is key to long-term success. Whether it’s finding local networking groups or connecting with other business owners who *get it*, this episode is packed with real talk and practical advice.  

[0:50] Why a strong community is crucial in retail  

[1:36] Building connections with fellow business owners  

[6:25] The challenge of finding people who understand your journey  

[7:00] Maki...

What does it really take to turn a retail job into a thriving, creative business? In this episode, Ash spills the tea on her rise from retail employee to co-founder of a unique glassware brand. From meeting her business partner to navigating the ups and downs of launching a niche product, Ash shares hard-earned lessons on collaboration, creativity, and staying relevant in a noisy market.

If you’re a dreamer, doer, or indie retailer ready to break the mold, this episode will fire you up.

[2:35] Ash’s retail journey
[4:34] How a business partnership sparked a br...

As a business owner, your team can either help you thrive—or hold you back. In this episode of Retail Therapy,  retail entrepreneur Katie Dhuey joins Kareen Walsh to dive deep into what it really means to build a team that supports you, the business owner—not just the business.

Katie shares what she’s learned managing Affordable Treasures, a successful retail shop that’s thriving without an e-commerce presence. From leadership language shifts (like eliminating “follow through”) to dealing with tough decisions like terminations and change management, this episode explores how the right team can give you space to...

In today’s After the Show segment, we’re getting real about what it takes to thrive in modern retail. Spoiler alert: being dull won’t cut it anymore.

From navigating setbacks to elevating your customer experience, this episode breaks down the mindset and strategy shifts you need to build a resilient and future-ready business. If you’re ready to level up and lead with energy, this one’s for you.

[0:57] Building a resilient business and becoming a modern retailer  

[2:07] Industries have normalized dull—why you can’t afford to  

[4:35] How your worst momen...

What does it really take to stand out in today’s noisy, ever-changing digital landscape? Mark Schaefer—globally recognized author, keynote speaker, and marketing futurist—joins us to unpack the mindset, strategy, and subtle power moves behind meaningful marketing.

In this episode, Mark shares why social media engagement might be overrated, how to push past fear without being loud, and why awe is one of the most underutilized forces in marketing today. If you're a brand builder, creative, or entrepreneur seeking deeper connection with your audience, this conversation is for you.

[2:43] Writing his 11th book  

[3...

Gen Z isn’t just scrolling—they’re shopping with purpose, passion, and personality. In this After the Show segment, we dive into what really makes them tick and how your brand can actually stand out. From turning your store into a social media playground to creating drops with meaning, this episode is packed with real talk and smart strategies to keep Gen Z coming back for more.

[0:50] - Simple ways to attract the next generation

[1:13] - Why Gen Z deserves your full attention

[2:14] - The impact of retail tariffs and what they mean f...

How do you cultivate a retail business that nurtures both customers and community? Liz Ferreira, owner of The Sweet Bay Shop, shares her journey of taking over her mother’s store and shaping it into a space that brings joy—both through plants and meaningful relationships.  

In this episode, Liz dives into the privilege of retail, the power of understanding your market, and how she balances family life with running a successful business. Whether you're a retailer, plant lover, or entrepreneur, there’s something to learn from her story.  

[2:40] Liz’s journey into retail  

[3:40] Ho...

Trust is everything in the collectibles industry—whether you're buying, selling, or running a multi-location business. In this episode of Retail Therapy, we dive into how Jimmy and Jonathan built Roadshow Cards into a trusted, coast-to-coast brand that’s redefining the card-collecting experience.  

With four stores in four different states, their biggest challenge isn’t just growth—it’s consistency. How do you ensure every customer has the same great experience? How do you build a strong leadership team across locations? Business strategist Kareen Walsh shares key strategies on scaling with integrity, strengthening team culture, and making sure your b...

Understanding the impact of screen time and social media usage is essential for businesses to target their audience effectively. In this episode of After the Show, we explore key strategies to capture mindshare and wallet share across generations.

From pricing strategies to platform usage, we break down how to leverage digital trends to boost engagement and drive sales.

[0:33] Pricing strategies and tips to maximize revenue  

[1:28] Understanding mindshare vs. wallet share  

[3:10] Insights on Americans' average screen time  

[4:38] Social media usage trends by generation  

[7:02] Which platforms each generation is usin...

How do you turn your retail store into a must-visit destination? In this episode, Mary Liz Curtin, co-founder of Leon & Lulu, shares her expert insights on creating unforgettable customer experiences, hosting successful events, and staying financially strong in the ever-changing retail landscape.  

Discover how to keep customers entertained, attract them to your events, and balance trends without losing your brand’s identity. Whether you’re a seasoned retailer or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you thrive!  

[6:38] Mastering customer entertainment  

[9:14] How to get customers excited to attend events  

[10...