Retail Is: Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Williams from EOS Worldwide. We learn all about the business, discuss Jason's entrepreneurial pursuits, and how small business owners can become more hands-free. Spoiler alert: it's not just hiring more staff. Tune in!

In this Retail Is Podcast episode, we sit down with Tim Dooley from The Retro Den. We discuss how his passion for engineering and American-made products helped him start his small business selling upcycled lamps. We talk about the importance of supporting local artists, how his business began as a father/daughter hobby, and more!

In this special episode of the Retail Is Podcast, we sit down with our Executive Assistant, Beth Parsons, on her last day at Retail Alliance. Beth started at Retail Alliance in 1993, and even worked here when she was 14 when her dad was CEO. Tune into this week's episode to learn some of Retail Alliance's rich history through the lens of Beth as she heads into retirement!

In this episode of Retail Is Podcast, we talk to Sean Cronin from Cloud 9 VoIP to learn more about their phone and internet services, what sets them apart from the big names, and their awesome app that makes truly makes a healthy work/life balance possible. Tune in!

In this episode of Retail Is Podcast, we got to sit down with Robert Willey and Chris Smith from Virginia Beer Company. What started out as a shared love of craft beer in college is now an extremely successful brewery in Williamsburg! Tune in to hear all about how their business began, how they brew their beer, and what goes into the decision-making of their various flavors!

In this episode of Retail Is Podcast, we're joined by John Bundy from Morning Fuel! John tells us about his own podcast, Morning Fuel, along with the social media training he provides. We discuss the importance of supporting local businesses, the success that comes from failing, and more! Tune in!

In this episode of Retail Is Podcast, we chat with Jov'An Benjamin from Good Mood Treats. Jov'An is a young entrepreneur who has built a thriving home-based business making delicious cookies and treats that promote mental health and mindfulness. We talk about the challenges of entrepreneurship, how Retail Alliance has helped with her business, and how she made her passion into a career.   https://gmoodtreats.com/

In this episode of Retail Is Podcast, we sit down with the owners of Crunchy Hydration. They discuss how their passion for wellness lended itself to the creation of their enhanced water brand and how chakras have inspired the various flavors. We also talked about their "month of yes" which landed them multiple opportunities to grow their brand nationally. Tune in to hear more of their story! https://crunchyhydration.com  

In this episode of Retail is Podcast, we talk to Tim Ritter from Family Fun Xperience Theatre. He shares his entrepreneurial journey and how he was able to create a successful family entertainment business in the midst of a pandemic.   Sponsored by Eggleston Services.

Cynthia Tyler joins the podcast to talk about being a travel agent and how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted her business and what things are like now that people are willing to travel again.  Sponsored by Gloucester Main Street Preservation Trust. 

Adam Dobbins, Grow Depot, stops by the Retail Is Podcast to talk about how he got started in the hydroponics business. We talk about the intricacies of his business, how state and federal laws around the sale of marijuana can impact him, and what he tells customers to educate them about what Grow Depot is. Sponsored by Chesapeake Bank.

Are you looking for a career that's challenging, rewarding, and ever-changing? If so, owning a franchise might be the right choice. Dylan Richmond from CleanEatz Virginia Beach and Chesapeake joins us on the podcast to talk about what it takes as an entrepreneur in this industry - including some of its biggest opportunities and challenges! Sponsored by Chesapeake Bank.

We sit down with Sheila Laderberb Tarasiuk and Abby Davids from Pedal Retail Advisors to talk about something critical to all small business owners - leasing. These two experts guide us through the process and offer some bits of advice that retailers will want to know when picking out their location. Sponsored by Coliseum Central Business Improvement District.

In this episode of the Retail Is Podcast, we are joined by the newest member of the Retail Alliance team, Jenny Crittenden! Jenny talks about why she accepted the role of Senior Vice President, how she plans to learn all there is about Retail Alliance and a bit of her philosophy when it comes to joining and eventually leading a new team. Sponsored by Germono Advertising Company.

Lindsey Germono, the owner of Germono Advertising Company, stops by the show to discuss the difference between short-term and long-term marketing plans, the importance of trends, and how to utilize social media to best connect with your audience.   Sponsored by Langley Federal Credit Union

We sit down with Brian Cade, owner of Strength From Within, to talk about the three pillars of his fitness and health business; fitness and weight loss, posture alignment therapy, and mind shift and personal growth. Sponsored by SKY4-TV.

Ashley McAchran, owner of All the Rage Stores, stops by the show to talk about how she grows and builds her business. Sponsored by Old Point National Bank.

We're joined by the Soul Sisters of Tea, Kristina Walden-Hillard and Erin Walden to talk about Soul Stir, their tea and wellness company. Sponsored by Lynnhaven Mall.

We have three health care clinics on the show to talk about how they provide care for those who lack health insurance or are covered by Medicaid. If you need help with your health care costs, you do not want to miss this podcast! Sponsored by the Norfolk Admirals.

We're joined by Sarah Kiah Morton and Ron Morton, co-owners of LOCKGREEN, to talk about their business's mission to protect, educate, and support the values of responsible marijuana consumers in Virginia. Sponsored by Work/Place @ E-Commerce Center of Hampton

Marco Myers of the Norfolk Admirals stops by the show to talk about the team's past, present, and future. We discuss the upcoming season, their new affiliation with the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes, and how businesses can get involved with the Admirals. Sponsored by HRBOR - Hampton Roads LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce.

Loretta Dunn joins the show to talk about her unique nonprofit Working Class Karma. Learn how she connects local artists and creatives with nonprofits and hosts events to raise money for our community. Sponsored by Chesapeake Square Mall.

Sarah Gallagher stops by the show to talk about her women's clothing brand, Gallagher. Listen in to learn more about the fashion industry, what it's like to be a first-time entrepreneur, and some fascinating details about opening a store during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sponsored by Downtown Hampton Development Partnership.

We're joined by Patti Howell, owner of Hickory Trading Company, to talk about how she uses her unique local coffee house and gift shop to help support her non-profit dedicated to serving those with special needs. Sponsored by Russell's Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric.

We sit down with Jamie and Danell Skinner to talk about how they started their family-owned, all-natural cosmetic company. Join us as we learn how they overcame struggles and found their success in the 44th episode of the Retail Is Podcast.

Our very own LOVEVA Marketing Coordinator, Abby Schiano, stops by the show to talk about LOVEVA. She also goes into detail on how she's been using Instagram to reach a greater audience than ever before. You will not want to miss out on her tips for expanding your Instagram!

Grace from Droofin joins us to talk about the local beer delivery service. Listen in to learn how they are partnering with Hampton Road's breweries to get great beers into the hands of customers all around the region.

We're joined by Gary Hughes, owner of Gangsta Dog, to talk about his dog treat (and much more!) business. We explore the history of the company name, his love for the area, and what he's doing to make sure his business stands out.

It's June and that means Pride Month! To celebrate, we sit down with Christian Strange, HRBOR, to talk about Virginia's first LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce. We learn all about their mission, what pride month means to them, and what we can do to support LGBTQ+ businesses in Hampton Roads.

Jim White, Jim White Fitness, joins us on the show to talk about his journey from a young man with $400 in his pocket and an idea to a business owner with multiple locations. Plus tons of fitness talk and we learn his favorite exercise and meal. Listen now!

We sit down for a chat with Mark Bernecker, Cloud9, to talk about the cloud-based VoIP service provider. The talk goes from where the technology is heading to a quiz of all the acronyms that fill his field!

We talk with Andy Sutter, Freedom Boat Club, about how he was able to navigate COVID-19 and handle the sudden increase in boating interest brought on by the pandemic.

We are joined by Ginnele Shonyo, co-owner of Southern Eats, in this episode of the Retail Is Podcast. Together we talk about her and her husband's journey to opening their first restaurant, the struggles that COVID-19 has brought, and the light at the end of the tunnel. 

We are joined by Walt Gardner, owner of Village Bicycles, to talk about the fascinating journey he went through to eventually own the very store he worked in as a young boy. We also talk about how they are handling the pandemic and the increased interest in biking it has caused. 

Ken Lees joins us to talk about his charity foundation, PingPong.Gives. A foundation that combines two of his passions, helping those in need and ping pong. 

We sit down with Adam Connolly, co-owner of Capstan Bar Brewing, to talk about business, brothers, and of course, beer!

Phil Smith, owner of Brick Anchor Brewhouse stops by the show to talk about how he works with both the local and business community to support not just his business, but all the other downtown Norfolk businesses near him.

Two guests for the price of one! We are joined by Jodi Newland and AJ Hyman, Sweetwater Cuisine, to talk not only about their restaurant, but also the two charities they run, Daniel's Grace and The Full Circle Project.

Kathy Yevak, SKY4-TV, joins us to talk about how the pandemic has effected them and all the things they are doing to help support local businesses during this time. We also learn what movies and shows have been played most on their channel over the last 20 years!

We are joined by the owner of Scratch Bakery, Lashonda Sanford, to talk about her time competing on the Food Network's Holiday Baking Challenge. She tells us what is was like behind the scenes and how her success on the program has impact her business. 

We are joined by Kaycee McCoy and Shizuka Benton, owners of Pawsnickety Pets, to talk about the kinds of decisions one must make when deciding to open a business during a pandemic.  

Matthew Netardus, Security 101, joins us to talk about the latest security trends for retailers and business owners, COVID-19's impact on the industry, and what you can do to protect your business this holiday season. 

Pamela Katrancha, Garden Gazebo, joins us as we talk about mentorship, making adjustments, keeping up with trends, and advice for those starting a new business.⁠

In this episode of the Retail Is Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Denise Foster, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, and owner of HempHaven in Chesapeake. Dr. Foster shares with us her passion for the medicinal potential of cannabis and CBD, and why she decided to open up her store to help educate people on the benefits.

Bryan Salerno, owner of Jersey Cards & Comics, joins us for a fascinating look into rediscovering one's passion for their business. We also discuss his unique take on customer service and how he manages his team when it comes to sales training. 

Kylie and special guest host Karen Husselbee, Retail Alliance's newest Membership Advisor, sit down for a virtual chat with Becky Devlin, owner of HortiCulture Design Co., to talk about her experience opening a new business during the pandemic, and how she has been doing since then.

We sit down for a virtual cup of coffee with Kate Dininny, Manger of Coaster Coffee, to talk about what it takes to create a community-focused coffee shop and how that community helped them during the early months of COVID-19.

Mary Landgrebe, Retail Inventory Solutions, joins us to talk about retail trends that have appeared in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We talk about what she is doing in her business, the landscape of the retail environment, and our most recent STRIVE Workshop.

Paul Atkinson Sr., CEO of Eggleston, joins us to talk about how his company works to help underserved members of our community through training and employment. We also discus their 65th year anniversary, some fascinating company history, and their response to COVID-19.

Bobby Wright, Wright Industries, joins us for a talk that features big ideas, future projects, local history lessons, and some positive messages in this difficult time.

Chris Shelton, Co-Owner of Cure Coffeehouse, joins us to talk about the rewards, challenges, and pitfalls one experiences when co-owning a business. We also get into how you can get through a crisis while still maintaining a vision of expansion and growth.