The Real Tale of Retail and Wholesale… all the dirty secrets

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!In this episode, we’re breaking down the buzz around the Parks x Target collaboration and what it really says about brand partnerships right now. We also dive into how Tapestry brands—and luxury as a whole—are actually performing behind the headlines.From the rise of luxury resale to the truth about diffusion lines, we’re unpacking why accessibility doesn’t dilute a brand—it expands it. And no, just because you spot something at Costco doesn’t mean the brand is “dead”… we have thoughts.Plus, a little behind-the-scenes chaos: Matthew is still popping his Ps into the mic, and Christina just celebrated turning 40… again 😉.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!Are malls making a comeback? Gen Z might think so 👀In this episode we break down:• Why the instant gratification generation actually wants to shop in person again• What comp shopping really means (and why retailers watch competitors closely)• How deal-seeking apps and tools like Capital One Shopping help consumers save• Why some struggling malls are being repurposed into pickleball courts and entertainment spacesRetail is always evolving… and the mall story isn’t over yet.If you like learning how shopping behavior is changing (and how to shop smarter), you’ll love this one.#retailpodcast #retailtrends #genzshopping #mallshopping #consumerbehavior #smartshopping #capitaloneshopping #dealapps #retailstrategy #shoppingtips #buyerperspective #businesspodcast #pickleballtrend #reel #explore @christina_with_love_

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode has retail insight AND an unplanned moment we couldn’t edit out 🤭We talked:• Target’s beauty expansion and what happens as Ulta exits stores• Is Lululemon feeling pressure right now? shifting demand + more competition• Matthew’s strong opinions on child cooking shows 😂• The surprising resurgence of vinyl records and why analog is trending again• AND yes… Matthew snorted during the recording and I left it in the podcast because real life > perfect editingFrom beauty aisles to athleisure to entertainment trends… consumer behavior is always evolving — and sometimes podcast bloopers make the final cut.If you like insider retail perspective mixed with real opinions (and real moments), this episode is for you.#retailpodcast #retailtrends #targetbeauty #ulta #lululemon #vinylrecords #consumertrends #retailnews #athleisure #beautyindustry #buyerperspective #businesspodcast #reallife #reel #explore @christina_with_love_

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!New episode and we covered A LOT 👀• Private label pros & cons (where retailers really make margin)• Matthew admits he couldn’t exactly own up to some pricing math mistakes when we worked together 😅• Grocery wars… who’s actually the cheapest?• Target’s quiet growth story — groceries now make up 23% of their revenue• And 55% of customer baskets include food & beverage 🍎Translation? Grocery is driving traffic, loyalty AND repeat trips… and retailers know it.If you love hearing the real strategy behind retail (from people who lived it), this one is GOOD.#retailpodcast #retailinsights #privatelabel #targetfinds #groceryshopping #retailstrategy #consumerbehavior #pricingstrategy #retailnews #businesspodcast #retailindustry #buyerperspective #reel #explore @christina_with_love_

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!In this episode Matthew starts things off by admitting he may have lied about the Super Bowl confetti being recycled… so we had to address that immediately. 😂Then we got into some classic retail stories from our early days:• The famous Target 10-4 rule (make eye contact at 10 feet, greet at 4 feet) — which Christina admits she has never loved• The time Christina got fired from an outlet store for not being a good enough greeter when she was younger• One of Matthew’s first retail jobs where he spilled spaghetti on a customerClearly… both of us were destined for retail greatness.We also talked about:• Why frozen juice concentrate is disappearing• What really happens in apparel when you're the sports buyer• And a few more retail stories you probably won’t hear anywhere elseRetail careers don’t always start perfectly… but sometimes those early disasters turn into the best lessons.🎧 The Real Tale of Retail & Wholesale – All the Dirty Little Secrets

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!We had a special guest — Greg (aka The Professor) — breaking down the truth about fabric, yarns, blends & stretch👀We talked:• Poly vs cotton and why blends matter• Recycled poly that used to take 97 years to break down… now closer to 3 years• Why 98% cotton / 2% stretch actually gives way more stretch than you think (closer to 15%)• How athleisure changed the way garments are made• Elastic, spandex & why fabric tech has come a LONG wayGreg’s final advice?Trust your hand. If it feels good… buy it.Because sometimes there really is better living through chemistry 🧪If you love learning how clothes REALLY work behind the scenes, this episode is a must.#fashionpodcast #retailpodcast #athleisure #fabricguide #textiles #retailinsider #buyerperspective #polyester #cottonblend #fabrictechnology #affordablefashion #smartshopping #reel #explore @christina_with_love_

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!If you’ve ever wondered how a product actually gets into a store, this episode is for you.Matthew and I are pulling back the curtain on the retail buying process and sharing real insider tips from both sides of the table.In this episode we talk about:• How to get into a store to pitch your brand or product• What buyers are really looking for (hint: it’s not always what you think)• What wholesalers look for when building a brand• The biggest mistakes people make when pitching retailersWe also share the story of how Matthew and I first worked together — and how we helped grow a business from $200K to $3 million.It’s part strategy, part retail secrets, and a little behind-the-scenes of our history working together.If you’ve ever had a product idea, wanted to pitch a retailer, or wondered how the retail world really works… this episode is for you.🎧 The Real Tale of Retail & Wholesale – All the Dirty Little Secrets

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!Another episode of The Real Tale of Retail & Wholesale and Matthew came prepared… with tariffs (again 😅).This week we covered:• Tariffs and why they keep creeping into retail conversations• The “monkey getting integrated into the monkey kingdom” (Matthew’s words, not mine)• Shrinkflation vs. flattening packages — is it real or are we just noticing more?• Gas prices climbing again and what that means for everyday spending• The shocking news that Hooters is closing locations (say it isn’t so…)Which led us to a bigger question:Are more businesses actually closing… or do we just know about it faster now because of social media?Retail has always had openings and closings — but now every headline, every bankruptcy, every liquidation hits our feeds instantly.So is retail really worse… or just more visible?Matthew has thoughts.I have opinions.And of course… a few dirty little secrets.🎧 New episode out now.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode spiraled quickly 😂We started with Costco vs Sam’s Club and why the same club sells totally different stuff depending on where you shop (rude).Then we fell into food wars—how many chains exist and why they’re all fighting for our stomachs—PLUS the moment people realize Aldi owns Trader Joe’s and need to sit down 🤯.We compared Home Depot vs Lowe’s, side-eyed Vevor for borrowing Home Depot’s color palette 👀, and then asked a truly unhinged question:💳 What if we just… stopped using credit cards?Chat had thoughts. We had concerns. Retail chaos ensued.Listen if you like hot takes, brand shade, and questioning modern life 🎙️😅

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode was a ride 😂We talked about Katie Lee—from being homeless and making frozen pizzas… to selling the business to Target for $20 MILLION 🤯.Then we dove into:💍 the rise of divorce rings (yes, it’s a thing)✨ a Cape May estate jewelry tip: Queen May🏠 burping your house (what it is + how to do it)🎧 why you should listen to the Bear Grease Podcast🌭 HOT DOGS—because we’re heading to Haddonfield to try a new kind of dogAnd we wrapped it up with a very important discussion:🚫 what NOT to put in your fridgeBusiness, breakups, burping houses, and hot dogs—just another episode 🎙️😅

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode went everywhere 😂Matthew’s Deal of the Day, $25 shipping to send a package to his grandkids (ouch), corporate layoffs everywhere, Amazon shutting down food + testing a massive big-box store, travel slowing down (perfect timing for Christina to become a travel agent ✈️😉)…AND THEN—💥 Costco sells GOLD. Actual GOLD.Christina was fully shocked and needed a moment.We somehow wrapped it all up with Matthew’s French toast recipe, because obviously.Retail chaos, hot takes, and breakfast at the end—press play 🎙️🍞

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode is a little unhinged (in the best way).We break down Chapter 11 vs. Chapter 7—what they actually mean and why people confuse them all the time. We also talk about the Mel Robbins Podcast… which Matthew is just now discovering (yes, we had thoughts 😂).Then Matthew brings the receipts—literally—showing up with store-closing notes written on a napkin while walking us through major retail and brand shakeups, including Disney Stores, Stoli Vodka, Popeyes, and Starbucks.Retail secrets, bankruptcy basics, pop culture catch-up, and napkin journalism—just another normal episode around here.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, we’re digging into why store closings are back — even local pharmacies aren’t safe — and why bankruptcies are hitting a 15-year high. We talk Starbucks shrinking its footprint, the western industry as a whole (including why tariffs on leather hides are some of the highest out there), and why the western market is projected to soar by 2032. We also break down luxury shopping habits, Walmart quietly winning over more affluent customers, sneaky changes to return policies, rising prices on Costco staples, and one stat that shocked us both: Americans are drinking less… or are they just smoking more weed? Let’s talk retail reality.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, we’re digging into why store closings are back — even local pharmacies aren’t safe — and why bankruptcies are hitting a 15-year high. We talk Starbucks shrinking its footprint, the western industry as a whole (including why tariffs on leather hides are some of the highest out there), and why the western market is projected to soar by 2032. We also break down luxury shopping habits, Walmart quietly winning over more affluent customers, sneaky changes to return policies, rising prices on Costco staples, and one stat that shocked us both: Americans are drinking less… or are they just smoking more weed? Let’s talk retail reality.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode is a little money, a little shopping, and a lot of opinions. We break down Kelly Lee’s financial advice for kids and her books — Christina is officially buying — while Matthew is firmly against the “deal of the day” socks for every occasion (Christina, of course, believes). We also get into how much water is actually used to cool AI servers like ChatGPT, the billions of dollars in holiday returns crushing retailers, and why public broadcasting is getting gutted. Plus, we talk AliExpress — the deals are OUTRAGEOUS… so what’s the catch? Smart money talk, retail realities, and a few strong disagreements along the way.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!On the next episode, things take a turn… straight to poop. And then somehow more poop. We talk about the fact that you can apparently have up to 15 pounds in your gut (you’re welcome), which leads to a completely unhinged conversation about why everyone seems to be in the bathroom more. From there, we bring it back to retail—Home Depot and Staples foot traffic is down, sales are slipping, and consumer behavior is changing in ways that actually matter. It’s body talk, bathroom humor, and real retail insights all wrapped into one episode you didn’t know you needed.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!On the next episode, we’re breaking down the Cracker Barrel logo change and why people are absolutely in an uproar(spoiler: not everything needs a rebrand). We get into McDonald’s fries, how franchises are making up their own prices, and Matthew’s deep nostalgia-driven Big Mac obsession from back in the day. We’re also recording while freezing in Christina’s basement, debating why Christina is apparently un-American for not liking fries, and unpacking why 7-Eleven is closing doors, Publix and Dollar General are under pressure, and beer and alcohol sales are declining. Is it weight-loss drugs, higher food prices, or people choosing groceries over drinks? Plus, beef prices are rising (yes, more beef talk) and inventory levels are starting to show signs of slowing. Retail chaos, food economics, and opinions you didn’t ask for—but needed.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week on the pod, we’re talking about the 2026 Color of the Year—and yes, it’s white (groundbreaking). We break down how TikTok is officially taking over the beauty industry, why a tiny Italian restaurant made a huge splash on ABC Nightly News, and the year-over-year increase in food prices that everyone is feeling. Christina is testing viral TikTok beauty products so you don’t have to, while Matthew dives back into soybeans and supporting mom-and-pop shops. Plus, we unpack rumors of Costco potentially reducing brand names on shelves—and Christina is fully on board if it means lower prices. Retail trends, real talk, and plenty of opinions.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, Christina and Matthew dive into the wild world of modern distractions — starting with the nonstop gambling commercials flooding TV and why they’re becoming a real problem. Christina urges listeners: don’t get roped in by the hype.Then we jump into the reality every parent is facing: kids getting cell phones as early as age 11. Christina shares her personal twist — why she actually believes phones should be in schools… and how she navigates it with her own girls.And because no episode is complete without retail drama, we dig into the Bath & Body Works meltdown, what’s going wrong, and why their quiet “rebrand to Amazon energy” says everything about where the marketplace is heading.It’s parenting, retail chaos, and Christina-logic all in one. 🎙️📱💥

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!From Nordstrom Rack’s massive store footprint to the gift card scam happening before money even hits the card, we’re breaking down what shoppers need to know this holiday season. We also talk about which stores are now charging for returns (and why that’s becoming the norm). And because it wouldn’t be our podcast without chaos, Christina introduces a new Christmas tradition involving stealing a fox… to an audience that is deeply unimpressed.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!On this week’s episode: Buckle up — Christina and Matthew are spiraling (in the best way) over the fact that Sears only has five stores left… FIVE. We talk about why everyone is somehow buying furniture online again, Costco coming in hot with a $90 billion lawsuit over tariffs, and Matthew mourning the tragic loss of his beloved Morrison’s cafeteria.Plus: we break down why the Tuesday after Thanksgiving now has two identities — Giving Tuesday and Travel Tuesday — and spotlight how brands like Bombas are giving back in a major way.It’s retail tea, nostalgia, drama, and a little heart… all rolled into one episode. 🎙️🛒🔥

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!Christina and Matthew dive into the retail chaos we’re all living in — from deferred payments becoming everyone’s new “budgeting strategy” to the shocking rise of quarter-zips as the unexpected “it” item of the season. We unpack why Black Friday is basically extinct (spoiler: it’s a full-month marathon now), plus the staggering percentage of holiday shopping happening right from our phones. If you love retail tea, insider takes, and a little buyer-brain banter… this one’s for you. 🎙️🔥

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!We’re back — and this week’s episode smells like brisket and fear of the future.🚗 Matthew took a road trip, discovered Buc-ee’s, and now thinks it’s a sacred destination (clean bathrooms and smoked meat? spiritual).🧾 We break down self-checkout — who’s actually using it and who’s just triggering the “unexpected item in bagging area” alarm for sport.🛒 Amazon’s testing walk-out scanning stores, and Christina’s convinced we’re one step away from getting microchipped for shopping efficiency.🏬 Meanwhile, Macy’s and Saks Off 5th are closing stores faster than Matthew can reheat leftover brisket.Retail therapy meets sci-fi comedy — with extra BBQ sauce.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, we cover everything from Olympic logos to peanut butter meltdowns.❄️ Winter Olympics branding — and the new Nike jacket that’s somehow both iconic and confusing.📘 Farmers Almanac might be gone… thanks to AI (because apparently even the weather got automated).💎 Luxury goods are thriving while the rest of us are comparing prices at Aldi.👩‍💻 Christina had to Google what Gen Z actually is.🧴 Matthew’s considering a spray tan. Christina’s blanking on Christmas with the Kranks.📺 Plus a few reality show hot takes and a full Costco peanut butter investigation.It’s retail meets ridiculous — where industry news collides with chaos.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!If you thought Black Friday was wild — China just dropped $160 billion in one day. We’re talking Singles Day, shopping hacks, and the AI “artist” somehow topping charts (and making us lose faith in humanity).Christina and Matthew are spilling on:🛍️ How to use Capital One Shopping so your cart cries less🤖 Why robots should not be allowed to sing🏬 Target, Walmart, and Amazon raising prices like it’s a sport👖 Levi’s denim fits — and yes, Christina’s trying them all on so you don’t have to (follow @christina_with_love_ on IG & TikTok for the unfiltered takes)It’s retail gossip meets group therapy for your wallet. 💸

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!Matthew’s breaking down why Orvis is closing and REI’s sales are slipping — is it the economy, discretionary spending, or just too many $98 flannels? Meanwhile, Christina’s solving the world’s problems one barrel-fit sweatpant at a time. Millennials are heading back in-store, leggings are on life support, and comfort has officially taken the crown. It’s cozy meets crisis in this week’s retail reality check.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!Grandpa Matthew is back — again — and baby number five just dropped like a new product launch. Christina’s talking Levi’s, denim, and rivets (aka the hardware we never knew we needed), while Matthew’s over here planning a deep-fried turducken that might violate a few safety codes. It’s family, fashion, and fried poultry chaos — just another day in the world of retail and wholesale.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode is giving “Costco vs. Sam’s Club: The Showdown Nobody Asked For.” Christina’s deep in her QVC era(brace yourself for the hand gestures), Matthew’s comparing membership perks like it’s a dating app, and we’re breaking down “Love It or List It” prices that make us question reality. Oh — and the trucking companies? Let’s just say… they’ve got issues. Tune in for chaos, comedy, and some retail therapy you didn’t know you needed.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, Christina’s officially had it — there’s a brand-new “actress” on the rise… except she’s not real. Yep, AI is taking over Hollywood and Christina is not okay. Meanwhile, Matthew tries to calm her down with a deep dive into soybeans and agriculture (because obviously that’s connected somehow 🤷‍♀️), and the two spiral into whether drone deliveries mean we’re basically living in a sci-fi movie now.It’s chaos, caffeine, and conspiracy — just another day on the mic.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, Christina and Matthew sit down with industry legend Rodney Rosal to spill the (retail) tea on royalties, manufacturing secrets, and what really happens at each level of production.From private label shockers to “you paid how much for that?” moments, it’s a masterclass in fashion business — with the kind of behind-the-scenes truth only retail insiders dare to share.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, Matthew officially adds “Sono, Bello” to his list of personal triggers 😂 — right next to creepy dolls and corporate buzzwords. Christina shares her wild ride getting to HSN, while Matthew reviews the Jane Goodall Netflix doc like it’s a thriller.We also unpack Target quietly backing away from DEI. It’s unfiltered, slightly chaotic, and perfectly us.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!Matthew’s on a mission this week—concerned about farmers, he makes the case for buying local and supporting the people who keep our food supply alive. We also dig into royalties, what’s really made (or not made) in America, and why so much of what we buy comes from everywhere else. Christina asks the big question: if “Made in the USA” is so rare, why isn’t there more of it?It’s part patriotic rant, part reality check, and a reminder that “buying local” is about more than just produce at the farmer’s market.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!We went on a “class trip” to the liquidation store in Runnemede, NJ—aka the land where Amazon, Target, Costco, Walmart, and Wayfair’s rejects come to die. The rules were simple: mystery bags priced $2–$55. The reality? Matthew and I both grabbed the $5 specials, and the “treasures” inside… well, let’s just say you won’t believe people returned that. Spoiler: Christina left feeling like she needed a shower.It’s discount chaos, questionable finds, and the kind of retail therapy you’ll regret immediately.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!In this episode, we dig into the decline of farming—why it’s happening, how insane the numbers are, and what it means for everyday life. Then we switch gears to dream big about radio… because let’s be honest, a station should definitely pick us up. Between the laughs and the rants, it’s part social commentary, part pitch, and all us.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week we’re pulling back the curtain on the world of lifestyle coaches—what they actually do, how much they make, and why everyone seems to be one. Matthew shares his very strong feelings about Good Morning America, while we dig into JCPenney store closures—is Target to blame or is online shopping killing the mall? And yes… it’s barely September, but Home Depot already has Halloween skeletons staring us down.It’s retail talk, real opinions, and a few spooky surprises.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!🎙️ This week’s episode is all about scams, surprises, and storage units! Matthew almost lost $16K in a scam (yep, you read that right), and Christina got taken for a ride by a sketchy pool guy. We also dive into the glory of Storage Wars, debate Love It or List It, and laugh about Christina just discovering the Uline empire. Plus, Matthew dusts off one of his old interviews for a walk down memory lane.It’s equal parts “don’t let this happen to you” and “how did we get here?”

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week we’re spilling the tea on who really makes more—men or women 💰 (brace yourselves). We’ll tell you what the ‘average’ family of four brings in 🏠 (spoiler: it’s giving ‘not enough’) and why Grandma’s still working the register instead of bingo night 👵🏼. Plus, a peek at the juicy stuff coming in future episodes—you’re gonna want to hang around for this.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!"This week we’re debating Sydney Sweeney’s new jeans campaign—was it about denim or DNA? 👖🧬 Christina’s taking you behind the scenes on her QVC rep journey 📺, and we’re diving into the ultimate showdown: do women or men spend more on looking good? (Spoiler: the receipts may surprise you.)"

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!What did we even talk about? This week we’re pouring one out—literally—for Costco’s legendary vodka 🥂 and spilling where to actually find their best booze. Christina’s back from a wild week in Florida with Jen 🌴, we’re talking why tariffs might have you buying those sneakers NOW 👟, and which companies are hiking prices. Oh—and yes, Halloween and Christmas are already fighting for shelf space… in August. 🎃🎄

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week we’re sinking into the topic of furniture—and by sinking, we mean literally. How are people buying couches online without sitting in them first? Make it make sense. We’re talking Wayfair, West Elm, Overstock, and the ghost of Bed Bath & Beyond (seriously, if anyone has the inside scoop—DM us). Matthew airs his beef with influencers and their suspiciously perfect living rooms, while Christina just wants something comfy that doesn’t cost a month’s rent.Pull up a chair (preferably one you’ve actually sat in) and join us.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, we cover everything and nothing (as usual). Christina is dreaming of early retirement, Matthew’s dodging his dentist, and we go off on a rant about the scam that is TV pricing—$39.99 x 6? No thanks. We unpack all the “exclusive” clubs you never signed up for but somehow pay monthly fees for, and of course, Matthew reminds us he’s proudly cheap. Also, Wawa—if you’re listening, we love you. Sponsor us?It’s messy, honest, and weirdly informative. Just how we like it.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This episode starts with a deep (and slightly chaotic) dive into the origin of the color purple — yes, really. Matthew, are you okay? What is happening? From there, we pivot (hard) into comp shopping: what it means, why it matters, and how to stay competitive in the retail game. Whether you're pricing a product or just nosy at the store, this one's for you. And hey… send us fan mail. We’re ready for our inbox to pop. 💌

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, we pay tribute to Ralph Shockey — beloved vendor, friend, and industry icon with a sense of humor that lit up every room. Join us, along with a few special guests, as we share favorite stories, laughs, and memories that celebrate the man who made the market feel like family. 💙

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!After a brief break (read: technical chaos and unemployment), we’re back and bolder than ever. This episode, we dive deep into America’s 9 biggest discount retailers, debate Dollar General vs. Family Dollar, and rank 5 discounters worst to best... then back again because we can’t commit.Also: Matthew has strong feelings about carts, we’re both unemployed (lol), and apparently we’re consultants now. Call us?

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This one’s a ride. We’re talking placentas in cosmetics (yes, you read that right), Dorothy Matthews’ stepmom’s surprising ties to Max Factor, and the ever-growing world of celebrity lifestyle brands. From old Hollywood glam to modern-day marketing machines, we’re pulling back the velvet curtain on beauty’s weirdest, wildest origins.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week on Retail & Wholesale: All the Dirty Little SecretsWe’re spilling tea on diffusion brands (you know, the "designer... but make it cheaper" play), diving into the sneaky world of concealed shortages (Matthew’s weird obsession, don’t ask), and reminiscing about six jobs that have totally disappeared—shoutout to the old-timers who remember them!From markdown magic to behind-the-scenes hustle, this episode is packed with the stuff they don’t put in the training manual.🎙️ Listen in and laugh with us—or cry if you were the stockroom “clicker counter.”

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!This week, we're answering a listener’s question about manufacturing in China—what you really need to know before jumping into production overseas. Spoiler alert: if you're not going there yourself or working with a trusted agent, don’t even think about starting a brand. We break down the risks, realities, and what no one tells you about sourcing abroad. Plus, we get into blue laws, and why we believe stores have no business being open on Thanksgiving. Some traditions are worth protecting—and trust us, no one needs to shop for socks between bites of turkey.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!One of us shows up with a color-coded outline. The other? Just vibes. (We’ll let you guess who’s who.) In this episode, we break down our very different prep styles—Matthew with the meticulous notes, Christina flying by the seat of her skinny jeans—and how that dynamic plays out both on the mic and behind the scenes in retail.Then we tumble into a retail rabbit hole: credit card and gift card strategy. From loyalty traps to margin magic, this side of the business is sneakily powerful. If you’ve ever swiped, scanned, or panic-purchased a gift card at checkout, congrats—you’ve played the game.Oh, and Matthew’s also on a shredding mission—because apparently the government might piece together his discarded junk mail. It’s a journey.

Hey it's us! CLICK HERE!! Shoot us a text with a question or a comment! We can't wait to hear from you!!We Didn't Choose the Rack Life – It Chose Us"Ever wonder how two friends ended up knee-deep in markdowns, market appointments, and vendor drama? In this episode, Christina and Matthew rewind the tape and share the unexpected journey that led them into the wild world of retail and wholesale. From first jobs that felt like chaos to career moves that made us say, “Wait... is this who we are now?” — we’re spilling all the origin story tea. Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or just love a good hustle story, this one’s for you.