The Retail Whore

In this episode, I’m joined by visual merchandiser Allison Levy to talk about her career in retail, specialty outdoor apparel, fixture design, and visual merchandising. Allison shares how she finds inspiration in unexpected places, including dumpster-dived treasures, and how her love of gardening connects to the way she approaches merchandising and design. We also talk about her experience training sales reps and store employees and what she’s learned about creating spaces that feel interesting, intentional, and alive.What’s Inside Finding creative inspiration in unexpected places and turning everyday objects into merchandising elements  How Allison’s experience in retail, apparel, fixture design, and training shaped her approach to visual merchandising  Why designing a retail space and designing a garden have more in common than you might thinkSupport the show

In this episode, I’m back with Part 2 of my August solo, diving deeper into the merchandising decisions that can completely change how your store looks and sells. I’m talking about choosing and placing fixtures, using vintage and secondhand pieces without making your store feel cluttered, and why every prop in your display should have a purpose.  I also get into one of my favorite parts of merchandising: storytelling. I share how I think about the person behind a display, the environment she lives in, and even sight, sound, and scent when creating a concept. Plus, I break down my 30, 60, 90-day approach to slow-moving inventory and when it’s finally time to mark it down and move on.  What’s Inside: How to choose and place fixtures without overwhelming your store  Why storytelling and intentional props make stronger displays  My 30, 60, 90-day strategy for dealing with slow-moving inventorySupport the show

In this episode, I’m back home after a long show season and sitting down for another solo Q&A, answering real questions submitted by retailers. I’m digging into everything from mixing high- and moderate-priced apparel and deciding when Christmas should hit the sales floor to handling those last one or two products that just won’t sell.  I also share my approach to must-have product categories, creating displays that tell a story and encourage add-on sales, fall merchandising, and building better product flow throughout your store. It’s a practical look at the merchandising decisions I make every day and the strategies retailers can use as we head into the holiday season.   What’s Inside: How I merchandise products to create stronger displays and add-on sales  When to start rolling out holiday merchandise—and why earlier can work in your favor  How I handle inventory, product flow, and those last one or two items on the floorSupport the show

Sara Stein is a seasoned brand builder and product developer with a career spanning Hollywood, fashion, and consumer products.Starting at Writers & Artists Agency and Simpson-Bruckheimer Films, she transitioned to fashion PR, founding S Public Relations in 2001. Best known for launching Los Angeles Fashion Week, she represented over 60 brands, including Universal Consumer Products, Superga, and Erica Courtney Jewelry. She produced live events featuring The Beach Boys and Runway Shows.In 2012, Sara launched Sisters of Los Angeles, a vibrant gift brand sold in upscale outlets across the U.S., Canada, and Japan, including Nordstrom, The Fontainebleau Hotel, LAX, The Broad Museum, Hallmark, and Ritz-Carlton. Her brand was featured on THE TODAY SHOW, Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Cosmopolitan Magazine, The LA Times, Sunset Mag and more. She managed operations, product design, and strategic partnerships before selling the company in 2018.In this episode, Sara shares her journey from Hollywood and fashion PR to building her own consumer brand. We talk about her experience launching Los Angeles Fashion Week, developing Sisters of Los Angeles, growing the brand into major retailers and destinations, and what she learned along the way as a brand builder and entrepreneur.What's Inside: Sara's journey from Hollywood and fashion PR to entrepreneurship  Building and growing Sisters of Los Angeles into a widely distributed gift brand  Product development, partnerships, and the experience of eventually selling her companyInstagramFacebookSwags to Riches WebsiteSupport the show

In this episode, Michelle sits down with wardrobe stylist and small business advocate Leslie Firkins to talk about the connection between personal style, confidence, and the retail experience. Leslie shares how her early work in photography led her into wardrobe styling, how she helps people feel more comfortable taking fashion risks, and what she is seeing in apparel and accessories right now. They also dive into how independent retailers can introduce apparel into their stores, create meaningful events, and use fashion to build stronger connections with their communities.  What's Inside: How personal style can build confidence and encourage you to take more fashion risks.  Easy ways for gift and specialty retailers to introduce apparel and accessories into their stores.  How fashion shows, pop-ups, and in-store events can bring people together and build a stronger retail community. InstagramFacebookSupport the show

This week's guest is Barbara Mooney, owner of Daisy’s Mercantile, a boutique filled with necessities, frivolities, and embellishments for everyday life, located in Alameda, California. Barbara has always used her creative gifts in her business endeavors, first as a caterer and event planner, then a baker, and now a shopkeeper. When she was bit by the entrepreneur bug, it allowed her love of numbers and behind-the-scenes action to work hand in hand with her talents to create what Daisy’s has become today, and she never looked back. Michelle & Barbara delve into Barbara’s jump from retail to catering, her merchandising & display style, separating work/home, and her future plans on transitioning from a brick & mortar into 100% online with online classes. Barbara is truly a creative force and this episode really showcases her many talents. Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/daisys_mercantile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daisysmercantile   Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/livinglikedaisy/_saved/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/daisy-s-mercantile/?viewAsMember=trueSupport the show

In this solo episode, I answer questions from Misty Stachel of 85 Local about how I prepare for wholesale markets, build seasonal concepts, and make buying decisions that support my stores. I share the process I use before, during, and after market to stay organized and buy with intention. In this episode, I walk through how I build concepts, use sales reports to guide my buying, avoid common purchasing mistakes, and plan each market trip to get the best results for my stores. What's Inside: How I build seasonal concepts before I buy  The reports I rely on to make smarter buying decisions  My step-by-step approach to planning a successful market trip Support the show

Michelle Sherrier is joined by co-host Susan Esayian and special guest Kate Kauffman, owner of Grease & Glitter Studio, for Part 2 of this special Shelf Talk Holiday Edition. Together, they continue the conversation with even more practical ideas for holiday merchandising, creative inspiration, and cost-effective displays that independent retailers can put into action before the busy season begins. In this episode, Michelle, Susan, and Kate dive deeper into where great merchandising ideas come from, how to develop a holiday concept without overspending, and simple ways to create memorable displays on any budget. They also share their favorite inspiration sources, discuss budgeting with clients, and offer practical window and tabletop display ideas that retailers can start planning now before the holiday rush. What's Inside: Where to find holiday merchandising inspiration and develop a cohesive seasonal theme  How to budget wisely for displays and invest in props you'll use year after year  Budget-friendly window and tabletop display ideas that create a big impact Support the show

In this episode, Michelle, Susan, and Kate dive into holiday merchandising from every angle, from planning months in advance to creating displays that feel intentional instead of overwhelming. They share ideas for layering holiday throughout the season, building memorable customer experiences, using simple props on any budget, and why storytelling through merchandising matters more than ever for independent retailers. This is part one of their Holiday Edition conversation, with even more ideas coming next week. What's Inside: How to start planning holiday merchandising before the busy season begins  Budget-friendly display ideas that create a big visual impact  Why thoughtful merchandising and customer experience help independent retailers stand outSupport the show

Emily Brooker is the creative director and owner of Esme and Elodie, a women's and plus size boutique in Renton, Washington. Esme and Elodie is known for being size inclusive, sex positive and humor filled. Emily guides her vision of social entrepreneurship and the modern woman into a community focused retail space.In this episode, Emily shares how she built a thriving boutique by doing things differently. From creating an inclusive shopping experience and staying unapologetically authentic online to balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, she opens up about the realities of running a modern retail business and why putting people before sales has been the key to her success.What's Inside:Building an authentic, inclusive brand that customers genuinely connect withCreating thoughtful retail experiences that put people firstGrowing a successful business while balancing motherhood, leadership, and entrepreneurshipEsme & Elodie WebsiteInstagramTiktokSupport the show

This week’s guest is Trudi Bartow, Director of Sales & Marketing at the Unemployed Philosophers Guild. Trudi joined the gift world via the preeminent art book publisher Harry N. Abrams and created unique opportunities for sales at gift retailers like Neiman Marcus, Crate & Barrel, Barneys and Sur La Table, including custom designer editions and exclusive bundles.After 15 years working with various publishers, she joined the fantastic team at the Unemployed Philosophers Guild as their Director of Sales and Marketing. Bringing her enthusiasm for the industry to this smart and funny gift creator she is helping the brand grow into new categories and expanding existing programs.Trudi is universally loved throughout the gift industry and after listening to this interview, we’re sure you will walk away feeling the same!Unemployed Philosophers GuildInstagramMain Street BooksSupport the show

Fresh off multiple Dallas Market setups and heading into Las Vegas Market, Michelle shares what's working, what's changing, and how she's rethinking her buying strategy for the season ahead.In this episode, Michelle reflects on her recent projects, including the Levant showroom and a unique merchandising project for The Brit outdoor venue. She also shares why she's dialing back assortments, embracing branded merchandise opportunities, and taking a more intentional approach to buying at market. From avoiding over-assortment to creating scarcity and keeping inventory fresh, this episode is packed with practical insights for retailers preparing for their next buying season.What's Inside:Lessons learned from Dallas Market and the Levant projectHow branded merchandise can create new revenue opportunitiesWhy Michelle is changing her buying strategy to avoid over-assortmentSupport the show

In this episode, Michelle shares a completely different style of Retail Whore Podcast episode recorded live from the Seattle Mart, where seasoned retailers shared their best advice for new store owners. From learning your numbers and building smarter markdown strategies to creating stronger customer experiences and merchandising with intention, this episode is packed with honest conversations and real retail wisdom.Michelle and Susan also continue the conversation from the road as they dive deeper into store layout, storytelling through merchandising, fixtures that actually support your brand, and why trying to be everything to everyone can hurt your business. Plus, Michelle reflects on a personal Mother’s Day trip, balancing work and life on the road, and the emotional realities of family relationships while building a business.We have linked all of the buyers who were kind enough to share their advice in this episode so you can go support and follow their stores:• Jasper – Vashon Island Pharmacy and Gift Store• Beth Rich – Mix It Up Home, Gallery & Gifts (Coeur d'Alene, Idaho)• Rochelle – Edit an Olive & Bloom Company (Snohomish, Washington)• Marie – Marie’s Boutique & Marmalade Fresh Clothing (Coeur d'Alene, Idaho)• Alicia – Paper Delights (Burien, WA)What’s Inside:Why knowing your numbers and creating a markdown strategy mattersHow merchandising actually starts during the buying processThe importance of creating a customer experience through layout, fixtures, scent, sound, and storytellingSupport the show

Kate Kauffman is the owner of Grease & Glitter Studio, a Vermont-based creative design studio serving retailers throughout New England and beyond. She specializes in visual merchandising, store flow and layout optimization, and striking window displays. Drawing on more than 10 years of industry experience with brands like Anthropologie and West Elm, Kate helps independent retailers elevate their customer experience, increase foot traffic, and drive sales.In this episode, Kate shares how her years at Anthropologie and West Elm shaped her approach to merchandising, storytelling, and customer flow. Michelle and Kate dive into the psychology behind store layouts, visual merchandising strategies for independent retailers, creating impactful displays on a budget, and why merchandising is so much more than making a store “look pretty.” They also discuss the future of merchandising, retail creativity, and the importance of building memorable shopping experiences that keep customers engaged and shopping longer. What’s Inside:How visual merchandising and customer flow directly impact sales Creative ways to build impactful displays without huge budgets Lessons from Anthropologie and West Elm that independent retailers can use todayMentioned In This Episode:Grease & Glitter on InstagramGrease & Glitter on WebsiteGrease & Glitter on FacebookSupport the show

For all of us who are merchandisers, Amy Meadows has the dream career. She has over 25 years of experience in window display, visual merchandising, and event planning.Recognized nationally in her field, Amy has reinvented traditions and reinvigorated business for both major retailers and independent businesses. From big boxes to boutiques, she helps businesses explore and leverage tools to attract customers and drive sales. Amy helps her clients align their storefronts, signage and displays to work together to build their brand and increase revenue.As a designer, Amy uses her background in theatrical set design to bring a sense of whimsy and drama to her installations, maximize visual stimulation and develop cost-saving display strategies. Through consulting, she creates best practices, methodologies, and practical strategies for a wide range of visual initiatives and outcomes.Additionally, Amy has created course content to inform and inspire the next generation of designers, with an emphasis on relevance in a changing retail landscape. Amy’s also a public speaker, and she conducts seminars specializing in time and cost-effective display solutions for independent retailers and business districts.In this episode, Amy returns to the podcast to share practical visual merchandising strategies that independent retailers can implement right away. Michelle and Amy dive into store layouts, window displays, customer behavior, holiday merchandising, and the psychology behind creating spaces that attract shoppers and drive sales. Whether you're preparing for show season, planning holiday displays, or simply looking for fresh merchandising ideas, this episode is packed with actionable insights from one of the industry's leading experts. We are doing our first-ever open call! You can submit your store or favorite store to be on the podcast because every store has a story behind it! Go to theretailwhorepodcast.com, click on SUBMIT YOUR STORE, fill out an easy form and we’ll see you on the mic!What's Inside:The secrets behind effective window displays and visual merchandising that drive salesHow to create better customer flow using store layouts, focal points, and "interruptive fixtures"Holiday merchandising strategies, display planning, and ways to keep customers engaged year-roundMentioned In This Episode:Windows MatterAmy Meadows on InstagramAmy Meadows on LinkedInSupport the show

Do you ever wonder who makes those chalkboard signs at Trader Joe's? Well, that's how Benjamin Soto got started—drawing Trader Joe's signs by day and designing band merch at night for Fearless Records.In 1998, Ben was recruited by Paul Frank to help kick off the massive millennial pop-culture brand Paul Frank Industries. Ben managed the brand creative for about 10 years, which meant involvement with character designs, the tee and fleece program, pajama prints, photoshoots, trade show booths, retail spaces, collaborations/licensed products. They even let him voice Julius the Monkey on the pilot show of Yo-Gabba-Gabba.In 2008, Disney Animation called and gave Ben the job of helping to create and Art Direct a cartoon based on Evel Knievel's daredevil culture. The Emmy nominated show Kick Buttowski had 52 episodes and aired between 2010-2012. Ben eventually left Disney to partner up with some other entrepreneurs to start the next creative adventure: C-Preme. They had captured "lightning in a bottle" with their 3-D youth bicycle helmet brand, Raskullz. Within three years, they had sold over 3 million helmets and countless other outdoor products. C-Preme sold to Bell Helmets (Easton Bell Sports) in 2014.Ben stayed on working for Bell Helmets until the next idea hit: a colorful cooler manufactured like a bicycle helmet. Target accepted a huge order; patents were in the works, and before the dust settled, they sold their company to Igloo Products Corp. in 2016. Ben is still at Igloo, managing creative for the cooler brand. You might've seen a little bit of Ben in the VW Playmate bus, retro coolers, eco coolers, licensed coolers, and the packaging and marketing of the brand. Igloo sold to Dometic in 2021 for a lot more money than anyone ever dreamed of.Michelle and Ben dive into Ben’s amazing career, from Paul Frank to Igloo, and his extensive experience with graphic design. Ben shares stories from past trade shows (before the days of social media) and the wild ride that was Paul Frank in the early days. Michelle and Ben also discuss his transition to Disney, then Igloo, living in Hong Kong, and where Ben looks for inspiration.What’s Inside:How Ben got started at Paul Frank and stories from the early days.Ben’s experience working at Disney and Igloo.How Ben finds his inspiration.Mentioned In This Episode:Benjamin Soto portfolioPaul FrankKick ButtowskiRaskullzIglooSupport the show

In this episode, Michelle shares how thoughtful retail architecture can completely transform a store by maximizing space, improving flow, and creating displays that feel abundant without becoming cluttered. She dives into practical merchandising techniques, creative tabletop styling, and the importance of layering products to create visually engaging and shoppable spaces. We are doing our first-ever open call! You can submit your store or favorite store to be on the podcast because every store has a story behind it! Go to theretailwhorepodcast.com, click on SUBMIT YOUR STORE, fill out an easy form and we’ll see you on the mic!What’s Inside: How to use retail “architecture” to create more sellable space  Tips for styling tabletops, shelves, and round displays without clutter  Simple merchandising tricks to create balance, storytelling, and flow Support the show

In this episode, Michelle and Susan dive into the creative chaos behind preparing showroom displays for upcoming gift shows, including their process for brainstorming concepts, sourcing inspiration, and creating memorable retail experiences. They also explore the growing importance of in-store events, community-driven shopping experiences, and how retailers can use social media to stay connected and relevant in today’s retail landscape.What’s Inside: Behind-the-scenes of designing showroom displays for Atlanta Market  Why in-store events and community experiences are transforming retail  How retailers can use social media to drive traffic and customer connectionSupport the show

Jon Dario is an author, speaker, and retail management expert. His latest book, titled AIM: How Managers Get Radically Reliable Results, is a how-to guide that helps retail organizations instill a culture of action item management and drive consistent execution, even in the dynamic world of retail. The principles behind AIM were built over the course of Jon's career with some of the top retailers in the world, including Macy's, Gap, Bank of America, and Travelex. Jon is currently the CEO of a NYC metro real estate company that manages different retail businesses, he is the professor of retail marketing at Seton Hall University, and he is the founder of The Retail Management Formula, a company that provides consulting services to retailers of all sizes and types.In this episode, we dive deep into what truly separates average managers from exceptional leaders in retail, and how consistent execution, clear communication, and strong team culture can completely transform store performance.Drawing on decades of real-world experience, Jon shares practical, field-tested strategies that help managers drive results, motivate teams, and eliminate the common breakdowns that happen inside retail businesses.What's Inside: How to create a culture of accountability without micromanaging Why sharing numbers with your team is the key to performance The “bad apple effect” and how to protect your team cultureMentioned In This Episode:WebsiteInstagramYoutubeX/TwitterSupport the show

Jacque Leonard is the founder and CEO of Roux Collective, a boutique salon, spa, and retail destination in Paso Robles, California. With more than 30 years of experience in the beauty industry spanning sales, marketing, retail, and behind-the-chair culture, she has built a business rooted in both connection and curation. Jacque believes retail is deeply personal — it is not just about what people buy, but how they feel when they walk through the door. Through Roux Collective, she brings together beauty, wellness, fashion, and heartfelt hospitality to create an experience that genuinely impacts people’s lives.In this episode, Jacque shares the real story behind building a multi-dimensional business that blends salon, spa, and retail into one powerful customer experience. From taking risks and backing herself when funding wasn’t guaranteed, to navigating growth, hiring, and redefining what retail looks like—this is a masterclass in intuition-led business and staying true to your vision.We are doing our first-ever open call! You can submit your store or favorite store to be on the podcast because every store has a story behind it! Go to theretailwhorepodcast.com, click on SUBMIT YOUR STORE, fill out an easy form and we’ll see you on the mic!What’s inside: How Jacque transitioned from sales rep to salon + retail owner—and why backing yourself matters  The power of experience-driven retail (and why connection will always outperform transactions)  Lessons in hiring, culture, and protecting your business vision at all costs Mentioned In This Episode:WebsiteInstagramSupport the show