5 Lessons in Growing with Your Customers from Retail ROAR with Claire Burrows

Get a look at how one founder built a product business with staying power. This episode is a sneak peek into Retail ROAR, my free annual virtual summit for product business owners.   I’m joined by Claire Burrows, founder of Air & Grace. She shares how she built a values-led footwear brand known for comfort, quality, and loyal customers. We talk about manufacturing setbacks, staying close to your customer, and why refusing to compromise on quality can fuel your long-term growth. If you’d like early access to the next Retail ROAR, you can sign up here to be the first to know when it opens. [02:18] The “wardrobe of regret” moment that sparked her mission [06:38] How Claire overcame early manufacturing setbacks [08:14] Why face-to-face customer feedback shaped her direction [10:37] How one customer request turned into half the product line [14:06] Claire's most memorable pinch-me moments in business [14:51] How she secured early investment in the business  [17:09] The financial realities of managing your cash flow [18:39] Why strong supplier relationships matter Resources: Get Early Access to ROAR 2026 Air & Grace Mentioned in this episode:Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'