Retail War Games

In this high-energy closing session of the Retail Collective Summit, we bring together a powerhouse panel of creative disruptors and marketing legends to deconstruct the new rules of brand building. Featuring leaders from Vans, Final Boss Sour, VidAngel, Creatably, and Biggest Agency, this discussion cuts through the noise of traditional advertising to reveal how "Content is the New Commerce." The panel explores the shift from polished, corporate messaging to the raw, high-stakes world of creator-led brands. From the "Mugatu-style" viral marketing of Final Boss Sour to the deep brand equity studies of Vans, these experts share how to capture attention in an era where consumers value authenticity above all else.

In this episode of Retail War Games, we explore the cutting edge of industrial evolution with Arnaud Daurat, Founder and President of Exxovantage. While much of the retail world is focused on digital software, Arnaud is focused on the physical backbone of the industry: the humans in the warehouse. Exxovantage is bridging the gap between science fiction and operational reality by deploying wearable exoskeletons and robotic assistance designed to augment the human body. Arnaud discusses how these "bionic" solutions are solving the logistics industry's most pressing challenges, from skyrocketing injury costs to chronic labor shortages. We dive into the ROI of ergonomics, the psychology of "human-centric" robotics, and why the future of fulfillment isn't about replacing workers with machines, but empowering them to do more with less physical strain.  

In this high-stakes session from the Retail Collective Summit, industry titans from Lovesac, Purple, TruFru, Perk Energy, Lume, T-ROC, and TPH Global Solutions pull back the curtain on one of the most challenging and rewarding retail environments in the world: Costco. The panel explores the strategic shift from a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) focus to a true Omni-channel presence. The discussion moves beyond simple placement, diving into the "Costco Language," the "Treasure Hunt" psychology of their shoppers, and the brutal operational discipline required to survive a 12-week roadshow or a full-time pallet rotation. Key Executive Insights: The "Costco Language": Why you need experts who speak the internal dialect of Costco to navigate their unique promotion and rotation systems. The Treasure Hunt Experience: How to design packaging and products that create a "get it before it's gone" urgency. Operational Discipline: The reality of managing massive inventory volumes, pallet configurations, and the "last three feet" of the sales floor. The Roadshow Secret: How Lovesac and Purple utilize roadshows not just for sales, but as a massive customer acquisition tool that drives traffic back to their own stores and websites. Relationship Management: The importance of internal advocacy and understanding that a Costco buyer's promotion can change your entire brand trajectory overnight. Panel Participants: David Schmidt (CEO | President, TPH Global Solutions) Brian Kava (President, T-ROC) Shawn Nelson (CEO, Lovesac) Rena Dolman (Founder/Owner, Perk Energy) Jared Olsen (VP Sales, Purple) Dan Griffiths (CEO, Lume) Taz Murray (Co-Founder, TruFru) Whether you are looking to scale into wholesale or optimize your current retail footprint, this panel provides the definitive playbook for winning in Big Box retail.  

In this episode of Retail War Games, we take a deep dive into retail strategy and brand building with Shana Rocheleau, EVP of Strategy and Business Development at Bedgear. Drawing from her background as a merchant for giants like Home Depot and Bed Bath & Beyond, Shana offers a masterclass in shifting a traditional commodity category into a high-performance ecosystem. This conversation explores the "Merchant Mindset"—the ability to oversee massive business categories and manage the delicate balance between brand vision and retail execution. Shana explains how to build a competitive moat through aggressive intellectual property protection, scientific legitimacy, and a "consultative" approach to retail partnerships that optimizes the entire customer journey.  

In this session from the Retail Collective Summit, industry leaders from Nostra, Spreetail, SmartScout, Redo, and Bispoke dive into the rapidly shifting landscape of retail technology. As the cost of building tech drops and innovation accelerates, the panel explores how brands are moving away from "growth at all costs" toward a "profit-first" mentality driven by data accuracy and AI-powered insights. The conversation tackles the "trash in, trash out" reality of AI, explaining why specific, product-level models are essential for avoiding hallucinations and gaining true visibility into profitability and inventory. From managing a $1 billion e-commerce operation to handling returns for over 3,000 brands, these experts reveal the internal metrics—such as Incremental POAS (Profit After Ad Spend) and LTV—that actually define success in 2026.  

Is physical retail dead, or is it the most powerful growth tool for modern brands? In this episode of Retail War Games, Jeremy sits down with Rebekah Kondrat, Founder and Managing Partner of Rekon Retail, to explore the renaissance of the storefront. Rebekah, who has led physical expansion for giants like Warby Parker and Joybird, discusses why digital-native brands are increasingly moving into the physical world to secure long-term customer loyalty. The conversation takes a deep dive into the "Anthropology of Shopping"—the study of how human behavior and psychology dictate the success of a retail space. Rebekah explains that successful retail is not about the transaction, but about creating environments where customers feel comfortable, welcomed, and connected to the brand's story.  

In this session from the Retail Collective Summit (Panel 9), industry leaders from Baker Tilly, Mett Naturals, Life Cider, Nutriient, and Just Ingredients discuss the evolution of the health and wellness industry. Moving beyond simple shelf presence, these brands are developing holistic ecosystems rooted in radical transparency, rigorous testing, and founder-led storytelling.The conversation explores how these companies maintain a "brand promise" of high-quality, real-food ingredients while navigating global economic pressures like rising whey protein costs and new tariff rounds. From the science behind Paraxanthine to the rise of clear proteins and the impact of GLP-1 drugs on consumer fiber and protein needs, the panelists reveal the strategies necessary to stay ahead of the rapidly shifting wellness curve.  

How does a brand evolve from sewing wallets in a basement to raising millions on Kickstarter? In this episode of Retail War Games, Jeremy sits down with Jacob Durham, co-founder of Nomatic, to deconstruct the journey of one of the most successful travel gear brands in the world. Jacob shares the strategy behind positioning Nomatic in the top 1% of crowdfunded projects by prioritizing high-function gear that removes friction for people on the move. The conversation explores the critical shift from a startup to a global operation, managing retail partnerships and a complex expansion into apparel. Jacob offers raw insights into why the digital advertising tactics of 2014 no longer apply and how "Innovation over Transaction"—including their massive partnership with Peter McKinnon—became the brand's rocket ship. Whether you are validating a product or scaling a company, this is a masterclass in design, operational resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit.

In this session from the Retail Collective Summit, founders and CEOs from Rags, &Collar, Beard Club, Caddis Sports, 47G and Spreetail dissect the shifting balance between D2C and marketplaces like Amazon and TikTok Shop.  The conversation reveals the raw reality of channel profitability, comparing high D2C gross margins against the lower acquisition costs and fulfillment efficiencies found on Amazon.The panel explores tactical "Trojan Horse" plays—using marketplaces for demand capture and customer acquisition, then driving that traffic back to branded sites for premium experiences and long-term loyalty. From navigating the "nerves" of TikTok Shop to the importance of "lean and mean" operations, these leaders share why being where the consumer already exists is the ultimate competitive advantage. Finally, the group discusses the future of retail operations, including the strategic use of 3PL partners and the role of AI in streamlining creative testing and SEO. Whether you're building a brand moat or optimizing for higher LTV, this episode provides a masterclass in staying nimble in a volatile market.  

In this episode of Retail War Games, Jeremy sits down with a staple of Utah broadcasting, Nicea DeGering. With a career spanning over 30 years at ABC4, Nicea shares her journey from being a 29-year-old crime reporter to becoming a pioneer of "infotainment" as the face of Good Things Utah. She offers a rare look into the survival skills required to stay relevant in a transitory business, having successfully navigated her role through seven different station owners.The conversation explores the profound shift in local media—from the strict lines of 90s traditional news to the personality-driven, community-focused landscape of today. Nicea breaks down why local storytelling remains essential even in the age of social media, describing the early days of her show as a "community gathering place" that functioned like Facebook before Facebook existed.Beyond the industry shifts, Nicea speaks candidly about the personal toll of being in the public eye. She discusses her evolution from trying to please every social media critic to finally embracing her own authenticity, concluding that "the only person I'm good at being is me". Whether you are a brand looking to tell your story or a leader navigating a changing industry, this episode is a masterclass in staying power, authenticity, and the art of human connection.  

In this strategic session from the Retail Collective Summit, leaders from iconic brands including LoveSac, R.C. Willey, Harmon's Grocery, Christy Sports, and Minky Couture convene to break down the operational challenges of navigating a market defined by uncertainty. The conversation dives deep into how decisiveness and aggression in decision-making allowed companies like LoveSac to anticipate tariff crises and pandemic shifts, transforming obstacles into opportunities to onshore production to American soil through automation. Throughout the episode, the panelists explore the tension between adopting new technologies like Artificial Intelligence for inventory forecasting and the absolute necessity of preserving the human experience and personalized service that defines traditional retailers. From the evolution of a brand that began selling blankets out of the back of a car to the management of industry giants with 94-year histories, this panel provides a roadmap for maintaining a clear "North Star" in the face of economic volatility and changing consumer behaviors.  

"Nobody knows how to make 100 million view videos until they just start posting."  In this episode of Retail War Games, Jeremy sits down with Isaac Cook, former Lead Producer at MrBeast, former  producer for the massive Beast Games production and now founder of White Rock Media and Farther Media. Isaac shares the high-stakes tactical lessons learned while managing $2.5 million production budgets per video and leading teams of over 1,000 people on set. We dive into the granular "science of the click"—from why the shape of a smile on a thumbnail can drive millions in revenue to why the CEO of McDonald's recently went viral using nothing but an iPhone. Isaac breaks down the strategic void many retail brands face: spending millions on massive sponsorships while neglecting the authentic, raw content on their own digital channels that actually builds long-term consumer trust. Whether you are a founder scaling a $5M brand or an executive at a billion-dollar enterprise, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the world's most successful content engine to show you how to turn digital attention into a measurable retail advantage.  

In this strategic panel from the Retail Collective Summit in January 2026, we bring together the visionaries behind some of the most disruptive brands in retail to discuss the brutal reality of competition. These leaders share how to handle the moment your "moat" is breached by industry giants and fast followers. We move past the spreadsheets to explore the "Blue Sky" mindset, the danger of resting on a healthy P&L, and the tactical maneuvers required to launch a brand in Target and Walmart while staying under the radar of multi-billion dollar competitors.  If you are a founder or executive navigating a crowded market, this conversation is your playbook for constant reinvention and long-term dominance.  

In this episode of Retail War Games, Jeremy sits down with Jason and Meradith Christensen, the husband-and-wife duo behind Blue Unicorn Bar. After building Northstar into one of the largest home security companies in the nation and exiting to private equity, Jason "disrupted himself" to enter the brutal world of CPG.  We dive into the "Willy Wonka" chemistry behind their proprietary manufacturing, the logistical nightmare of shipping real chocolate in the summer, and how they landed major retailers like Harmon's and Associated Food Stores in record time. From the high-stakes pivot of a tech founder to the molecular science required to create a "fluffy" protein bar without additives, this conversation reveals what it truly takes to scale a premium brand while maintaining total control over production.  

"Not every dollar is a dollar. Smart money is king." In this session from the Retail Collective Summit, we bring together a powerhouse panel of financial and legal experts to deconstruct the current state of retail funding. Featuring Michael Bennett (Crew Capital), Derek Brown (Attorney General of Utah), and leaders in investment banking, we dive into the mechanics of over 500 M&A transactions and $3B in managed assets. We move past the basics to discuss the "Deep Tier Supply Chain Finance," the reality of the 2026 legislative budget impacts, and why your choice of investment partner is more critical than the valuation itself.  

In this episode of Retail War Games, we sit down with Atul Vir, the Founder and CEO of Equator Advanced Appliances and author of Underdog Thinking. With a career spanning 35 years and multiple continents, Atul shares how he built a retail powerhouse by identifying the "problems that don't exist" according to industry giants. From surviving economic coups and currency devaluations in Africa to launching the first combo washer-dryer in the United States, Atul discusses the DNA of an entrepreneur who refuses to stop being the underdog. We dive into the complexities of global supply chains, the "Trust Test" in customer service, and why the future of retail appliances belongs to those who prioritize intuitive innovation over massive marketing budgets.

This is Panel 4 of Retail Collective Summit of Winter 2026, CEOs from Backcountry, Borboleta Beauty, Teton Sports, ARI Bikes, Cariloha, and Mission Belt strip away the AI hype to discuss the cold, hard reality of retail innovation in 2026. For the C-suite, technology is no longer just a shiny new tool—it's an "Ironman Suit" designed to give your workforce more leverage. But there is a catch: as AI lowers the barrier to entry for "slop" content and low-cost competitors, the ultimate competitive advantage has shifted back to authenticity and In-Real-Life relationships. In this episode, we tackle: The Trust Mandate: Why every tech implementation must pass the "Trust Test"—does it build or erode the relationship with your customer?. The Era of AI Search: Preparing for the shift from SEO to AI-driven shopping patterns and the upcoming Shopify-ChatGPT integration. Operational Unlocks: How to use AI to automate administrative "busy work," from interpreting handwritten orders to accelerating curriculum development. The Omnichannel Resurgence: Why digitally native brands are returning to physical showrooms and "air-conditioned curtains" to win the customer's heart. High-Stakes Forecasting: The reality of demand planning across 1,200+ SKUs and why "two sources of truth" (Human + AI) are better than one.  

Cristóbal Murillo left Chile with two suitcases, a bold idea, and a dream: to turn Selk'bag into a global outdoor brand. Today, his wearable sleeping bag is sold across the U.S. and Europe, with collaborations that include Marvel, Star Wars, and some of the biggest entertainment franchises in the world. In this episode, Cristóbal shares how a quirky idea born in Santiago became a worldwide success, what it took to break into the U.S. retail ecosystem, and how he navigated licensing deals, distribution challenges, and the shift from wholesale to D2C. We also dive into his first-ever trip to Patagonia, the decline of iconic trade shows like Outdoor Retailer, and how TikTok and social commerce have reshaped Selk'bag's growth.  

This is not a regular episode. It's Panel 3 of the Retail Collective Winter 2026 Summit, a live session featuring CEOs, founders, and leaders who are actively shaping the future of retail. In this conversation, executives from Demer Box, Nature's Fusions, Rhone, Stance, Mixhers, Lion Energy, Nielsen, and Spreetail unpack one of the most defining tensions for emerging brands today: Should you chase the low‑hanging fruit that keeps the business alive, or invest in true omnichannel mastery that builds long‑term advantage? Panel 3 delivers a candid, tactical, and deeply grounded look at how CEOs and founders grow without breaking—and how they choose what matters right now versus what builds the brand they want to become.  

AI is reshaping every part of sales, marketing, and revenue operations—and few leaders understand that transformation better than Amy Cook, Co‑Founder and CMO of Fullcast. In this conversation, Amy breaks down how AI is redefining go‑to‑market strategy, why authenticity matters more than ever, and what modern revenue teams must do to stay competitive. From her journey as a single mom rebuilding her career, to leading multiple companies through acquisition, to now architecting AI‑powered GTM systems, Amy brings a rare blend of heart, experience, and strategic clarity. We dive into the future of commissions, territory planning, deal intelligence, lead quality, and the new rules of sales + marketing alignment.  

In this second panel from the January 2026 Retail Collective Summit, industry leaders break down the realities of today's global supply chains—from escalating tariffs and shifting labor markets to the long-term demographic pressures reshaping where and how products can be made. Through candid insights and real-world examples, the panel explores what true supply‑chain resiliency looks like in an era defined by uncertainty, disruption, and constant change.

Joshua Ketter has lived a life few people can imagine—born in Alaska, raised in Seattle, and now a global operator who has visited 84 countries and helped shape the retail strategies of Amazon and Target. In this episode, he sits down with Jeremy to unpack the early days of Amazon, the realities of scaling e‑commerce, and the lessons learned from overseeing massive supply chain and technology operations. From Deloitte to Amazon's most remote fulfillment centers, to leading Target.com through major digital transformation, Joshua brings a rare inside look at how the biggest retailers in the world actually operate—and what brands need to understand about the future of retail. This conversation is the beginning of something bigger.  

The Supreme Court has officially struck down the Trump‑era tariffs in a landmark ruling that could reshape the entire retail and manufacturing landscape. After years of U.S. brands paying more than $160B in tariffs, the decision opens the door for significant refunds as the case moves to lower courts. Early estimates suggest companies may recover 30–50% of what they paid, with higher odds for goods imported within the last 120 days.

This panel brings together some of Utah's most dynamic founders and operators to unpack one of the biggest questions facing consumer brands today: How do you navigate economic headwinds while serving increasingly price‑sensitive customers — without compromising your brand? Moderated by Nicea DeGering (ABC4) and Rachelle Morris (Stalwart Ventures), the conversation features leaders from premium footwear, beauty, baby products, grooming, and golf — each offering a unique lens on trust, pricing, manufacturing, community, and long‑term brand building. In this discussion: • How tariffs, elections, and shifting consumer psychology are reshaping demand • The rise of trust as the ultimate differentiator in 2026 • What happens when factories steal IP — and how to protect your brand • Why some founders are moving manufacturing to the U.S. • How DTC brands are adapting after Meta's algorithm changes • The role of community, storytelling, and authenticity in premium pricing • Why long‑term brand building beats short‑term tactics A candid, practical, and deeply relevant conversation for any founder navigating today's unpredictable consumer landscape.  

BGZ Brands has evolved from a family garage operation into a leader in mobile protection, distribution strategy, and the emerging category of device wellness. In this episode, Shane Feller shares how BodyGuardZ, Lander, and Moxyo are innovating across channels while redefining what a screen protector can be. A deep dive into innovation, retail strategy, and the future of consumer electronics.  

Back9 Golf is rewriting the rules of franchising — and in just three years, they've scaled to 443 locations across the U.S. and abroad. In this episode, Dustin Hansen, CEO of Back9, breaks down the franchise model, the culture, and the strategy behind one of the fastest‑growing concepts in America. Inside this conversation: • How Back9 evaluates franchisees and maintains culture at scale • Why indoor golf is exploding across all demographics • The economics, build‑out model, and membership strategy fueling rapid growth A must‑listen for founders, operators, and anyone curious about how a franchise becomes a movement.  

The outdoor industry is under pressure — tariffs, supply‑chain swings, shifting consumer behavior, and a retail landscape that's harder than ever to navigate. In this episode, Marcus Sorensen, CEO of Caddis Sports, breaks down the real challenges outdoor brands are facing and the strategies that actually work in today's market.

The drone revolution is here — and it's transforming retail, logistics, and the future of mobility. In this episode, Aaron Starks, President & CEO of 47G, breaks down how autonomous delivery, air taxis, and advanced aerospace technology are reshaping the way products move and consumers shop. You'll learn: • How autonomous drones will change last‑mile delivery and retail logistics • Why Utah is becoming a national hub for aerospace, defense, and air mobility • What retailers must prepare for as air taxis and drone delivery scale nationwide A deep, forward‑looking conversation for anyone building, investing in, or operating the future of commerce.  

In this episode, Jake Karls—co‑founder of Mid‑Day Squares—reveals how a small snack made in a Montreal condo kitchen grew into a retail powerhouse now found in more than 10,000 stores across North America. He breaks down the storytelling‑driven strategy that helped them build community before hitting shelves, the decision to manufacture their own product when no co‑packer could match their vision, and the city‑by‑city retail expansion model that allowed them to scale without losing momentum. Jake also shares how the brand navigated the global cocoa crisis, why innovation led them to launch their new PB&J product now taking off at Target, and what every CPG founder needs to understand about attention, velocity, and building real relationships with retailers. This is a raw, honest, high‑energy masterclass in modern brand building and the realities of winning in today's retail landscape.  

In this episode, Kasey Evans breaks down the future of mobility—from electric vehicles to autonomous tech—and how strategic investing is reshaping entire industries. A fast, insightful look at where innovation is really headed. You'll learn: • Why EVs, batteries, and autonomous systems are redefining global transportation • How strategic investors pick winners in high‑growth, high‑risk markets • The real challenges behind building and scaling next‑gen mobility companies  

Building a supplement brand sounds exciting—until you understand the real economics behind it.  In this episode, Jake Hadlock, co‑founder of Nutrient, breaks down what it truly takes to manufacture products, manage capital, and scale in one of the most competitive industries in the country. We explore how trends like protein, clear whey, electrolytes, fiber, and even the rise of Ozempic are reshaping consumer behavior, and why so many founders underestimate the operational and financial demands of this space. Jake also shares the harsh reality of retail—how big‑box expansion can make or break a brand, why most DTC companies struggle to survive the transition, and what ultimately separates the few that last from the many that disappear.

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Kelly to talk about what it really takes to build and scale modern footwear brands like Taft and Journeys. Mike shares his 17-year journey in the footwear industry, from early days selling opportunity buys online to leading brands that now ship millions of pairs of shoes each year. We dive into how Taft has redefined men's footwear through bold design, craftsmanship, and confidence—and how Journeys has grown into a dominant women's brand built on comfort, value, and scale. We also explore global manufacturing decisions across China, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, the realities of supply chains, why specialization in footwear matters, and how operational excellence enables creative freedom. Along the way, Mike opens up about leadership, brand evolution, and why great products—and even great shoes—can have a deeper emotional impact than we often realize. This conversation is a deep look at building brands that stand out, operate efficiently, and continue to grow without losing what makes them special.

In this episode, James Dayton pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to capture attention in today's crowded digital landscape. From his small‑town beginnings in Cokeville, Wyoming to producing some of the internet's most iconic ads, James shares the stories, lessons, and hard‑earned insights that shaped his creative career. He breaks down the evolution of viral content, the rise of narrative‑driven campaigns, and how platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are rewriting the rules of engagement. James also dives into the realities behind high‑impact ads—budgets, testing, algorithms, shelf life, and why brands must think in ecosystems rather than one‑off videos. Whether you're a marketer, founder, or creative, this session is a masterclass in storytelling, strategy, and the psychology of what makes people stop scrolling.

In this session, we hear directly from two leaders within the Utah Governor's Office as they share key insights into the state's economic direction. Mike Mower opens with a powerful look at Utah's history of entrepreneurship — from pioneer merchants to modern innovators — and how that spirit continues to shape the state's resilience and identity. Following him, Ryan Starks provides a strategic overview of Utah's economic priorities, including the role of the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, the inland port network, and the policies designed to support retailers, manufacturers, and emerging industries. Together, they offer a rare, inside look at how Utah balances quality of life, business‑friendly regulation, infrastructure development, and long‑term economic vision. A valuable session for anyone interested in leadership, public policy, logistics, or the blueprint behind one of the strongest economies in the nation.

In this episode, we sit down with Blake Brown to uncover how True Classic has redefined men's apparel by shifting the conversation from product to emotion. Instead of competing through trends or complexity, True Classic built its explosive growth on a simple but powerful idea: men deserve to feel confident, comfortable, and seen. Blake breaks down the brand's approach to fit, accessibility, and emotional connection — and why these elements have allowed True Classic to dominate one of the most saturated categories in retail. From understanding real male body types to designing clothing that supports confidence rather than insecurity, True Classic is rewriting the rules of modern menswear. This conversation goes beyond fabric and fit. It explores the psychology behind why men buy, what they respond to, and how a brand can earn loyalty by speaking to identity rather than just style. If you're building a brand or want to understand the new era of men's branding, this episode is a masterclass.

In this episode, I sit down with Bill Brady — entrepreneur, storyteller, and the mind behind two of the most influential kid‑tech brands in the country. We dive into the origins of Gab and Troomi, the mission to keep kids safe in a digital world, and what it really takes to build a company that challenges an entire industry. Bill opens up about fundraising, supply chain battles, parenting in the smartphone era, and why technology should be a tool, not a tyrant. It's a conversation about leadership, purpose, and the future of tech for the next generation.

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Afleck from HULU's Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to unpack the real story behind her unexpected rise from wedding videographer to viral creator. Jennifer opens up about motherhood, creativity, and the moment a single TikTok video changed everything — taking her from posting for fun to building a powerful personal brand with over a million followers. We dive into the business behind going viral: how she chooses the right brand partnerships, the role her manager plays in scaling her career, and why authenticity is the foundation of her influence. Jennifer also shares her perspective on TikTok vs. Instagram, the future of creator platforms, and what it truly takes to build trust with an audience in today's digital landscape. If you're interested in the creator economy, brand strategy, or the human side of going viral, this conversation delivers real insight and impact.

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Chris Willis to explore what it really means to stay curious as a leader in a world shaped by AI, data, and constant change. Chris shares his unconventional journey—from editorial cartoonist and Pulitzer-winning newsrooms to startups, design, and speaking on AI—revealing why the most valuable leaders aren't the ones with linear paths, but the ones willing to learn from anyone, anywhere. They talk about humility as a leadership advantage, building trust inside teams, and why creative thinking still matters more than ever in a data-driven world. This conversation is about seeing opportunities others miss, choosing the right rooms to grow in, and understanding that learning never stops—no matter how experienced you are. If you're building, leading, or rethinking what leadership looks like in the age of AI, this episode will change how you see your own path.

In this episode, Crystal Maggelet—CEO of FJ Management and one of the most influential leaders in modern retail—joins us for a conversation that's equal parts inspiring, real, and unforgettable. Crystal shares the remarkable story behind her family's legacy, from the early days of Flying J to leading Maverik's explosive growth across 20+ states. We dive into how she thinks about leadership, purpose, family, and building companies that last for generations. From self-service gas stations in the 60s to acquiring Kum & Go and scaling to 800+ stores, Crystal reveals the mindset that's guided her through every chapter—rooted in heart, purpose, and big-vision thinking. We talk entrepreneurship, resilience, raising driven kids, exploring the world, outdoor adventures, and the real work behind becoming one of the most respected operators in the country. If you're building anything—your career, your company, or your legacy—this conversation will light you up. Enjoy the episode. And as always… adventure starts here.

In today's episode, we explore the remarkable journey of DemerBox—a story born on the remote islands of Survivor, where a sound engineer's ingenuity sparked a product unlike anything else in the outdoor world. What began as a simple solution in the wild soon captured the attention of Zac Brown, whose passion for music and the outdoors helped elevate the brand to new heights. We dive into the craftsmanship and rugged engineering that make DemerBox more than a speaker—it's a companion built to protect your gear, power your adventures, and deliver music wherever life takes you. From overcoming the challenges of scaling a U.S.-made product to shaping its identity through festivals, hunting camps, and countless real-world experiences, this is the story of a brand that wasn't just created—it was forged by adventure, community, and an unwavering belief in building something that lasts.

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Shawn Hendrix, a trailblazer who's turned setbacks into stepping stones for success. Shawn opens up about the risks he took, the challenges he faced, and how faith, grit, and determination guided him through the toughest moments.

What does it really take to lead — and keep winning — over four decades in business? Mark Goldstone, a 40-year CEO, investor, and turnaround expert, shares the hard-earned lessons behind building, fixing, and scaling companies across industries. In this episode, he breaks down the frameworks, mindset, and "CEO Playbook" that have helped him guide brands through change, uncertainty, and growth. For founders, CEOs, and retail leaders, this is a rare inside look at the mindset required to lead, adapt, and win — no matter the market.

When David McKillips stepped into Chuck E. Cheese in 2019, the brand was broken — outdated animatronics, declining guest experience, and over a billion dollars in debt. What followed was one of the most ambitious turnarounds in entertainment history. In this episode, David shares how he led a full-scale transformation: remodeling hundreds of locations, redefining the brand's purpose, and repositioning Chuck E. Cheese as a global entertainment powerhouse. From launching new characters and digital content to expanding into retail, licensing, and international markets, the strategy was clear — fix the brand first, then build the empire. If you're scaling a legacy brand, navigating a turnaround, or exploring omnichannel growth, this conversation is packed with insight, vision, and practical lessons.

Ben Capell, Managing Director at Peterson Ventures, shares what makes a brand investable — from founder grit to ecosystem advantage. We talk strategy, hero products, and how early-stage capital can shape the future of retail. One of my favorite lines from this episode: "The players win the games — we're just here to coach." If you're building, scaling, or investing in consumer brands, this episode is packed with insight you don't want to miss.

Damian Dayton, filmmaker and creative strategist at Creatably, has launched over 100 campaigns for brands like Pillow Cube, Cold Case Ice Cream, and Kizzik — helping them scale from garage to national retail. In this episode, he shares what truly drives performance: clarity, humor, and strategic storytelling. We explore the anatomy of a high-converting ad, the 5 D's of DTC success, and why being helpful beats being cool. Plus: how to use “debate bait,” why tacos always win, and what founders should know before jumping into retail. Whether you're building a brand, managing creative, or scaling into omni-channel, this episode offers practical insights with a dose of creative energy.

From cage fights to handcrafted Italian eyewear, Johnny Riche built Rockwell with grit, loyalty, and a fighter's mindset. In this episode, he shares how combat sports shaped his leadership style, how Rockwell scaled without selling out, and why passion—not credentials—is the real edge in business. We talk team culture, product pivots, affiliate strategy, and the kind of partnerships that start with a handshake and end with a brand that lives 24/7.

In this short episode, Chris Willis (Chief Design Officer at Domo) breaks down why generative AI isn't just another tool — it's a strategic shift. From assistants to agents, dashboards to inboxes, Chris shares how leaders can move from tasks to goals, and why “English is the new programming language.” If you're building in retail, tech, or media — this is the mindset shift you need to stay ahead.

Dude Perfect didn't just build a YouTube empire — they built trust. In this episode, Matt Deimund (Chief Product Officer) shares how the brand evolved from backyard trick shots to board games, body armor, and retail partnerships that actually move product. We talk about creator advantage, ownership mindset, and why authenticity isn't optional when scaling a brand families love. From Walmart shelves to live tours and future physical experiences, this is how Dude Perfect is turning content into commerce — without losing the soul.

In this episode, he explains what changes when a CMO takes on the operator role, and why much of marketing fails to connect with real customers. From leading global brands to launching his own, Brian shares how clarity, strong execution, and customer focus drive real results. A practical look at what works—and what founders should stop wasting time on.

Brian McDonell knows what it takes to build a brand that scales — and what it takes to make it worth buying. In this episode, he shares the real story behind growing a company with intention, exiting successfully, and staying sharp after the deal. From navigating retail partnerships to building operational discipline, Brian breaks down the mindset shifts founders need to go from startup to acquisition. He talks about the power of clarity, the importance of knowing what you're not, and why staying hungry post-exit is harder — and more important — than most people think. Whether you're building your first brand or your third, this episode is a masterclass in long-game leadership.

Some brands start with funding. Brady Edwards started with grit. No playbook. No safety net. Just relentless execution and a deep understanding of what real customers actually want. In this episode, Brady shares how he went from contractor to brand builder — learning branding in the trenches and scaling without shortcuts. This is the blueprint for building something real.