RETHINK Retail - the evolution of retail in today’s connected world. Join host Paul Lewis, CMO at Valtech, a global digital agency focused on strategy and transformation in retail, as he explores the most recent trends and innovations in commerce.
The RETHINK RETAIL podcast is a truly eye-opening and educational show that delves deep into the world of retail transformation. As someone who previously had minimal knowledge and interest in the retail sector, I was pleasantly surprised by the wealth of information and insights provided by this podcast. It goes beyond the surface-level understanding of shopping and merchandising, offering a comprehensive look at how the industry is evolving and being revolutionized through innovative strategies and modern technological practices.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is its ability to bring together great minds from behind-the-scenes of the retail industry. The interviews conducted on the show are free-flowing, insightful, and engaging. They provide listeners with valuable insights into how successful retailers think, strategize, and execute their plans. The conversations cover a wide range of topics related to building a thriving retail organization, making it a must-listen for both established retailers and those looking to carve out their niche.
However, there are a few minor drawbacks to consider. Some listeners may find that certain episodes focus more on specific areas or technologies within the retail sector that may not be directly relevant to their interests or industry. Additionally, while the interviews are well-conducted, occasional scripting or structured questioning might enhance the flow and depth of discussions even further.
In conclusion, The RETHINK RETAIL podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone in the retail industry or those interested in witnessing firsthand how business sectors are changing through modern technological practices and innovative strategies. Julia does an exceptional job as host, leading conversations that cover a broad range of topics with leaders who have achieved success themselves. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone seeking inspiration and insight into building a profitable retail organization while creating a life they can be proud of.
How do you scale one of the fastest-growing beverage categories in retail? In this episode, host James Tenser sits down with Sean Goldsmith, Co-Founder & CEO of The Zero Proof, to unpack what's fueling the explosive rise of the non-alcoholic (NA) movement — and how retailers can capitalize. They explore: - The cultural shift toward wellness, moderation, and premium adult experiences - How new NA spirits, wines, and cocktails drive incremental revenue, not substitution - The operational blueprint behind scaling NA from blog → retailer → portfolio brand builder Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
Cyber threats aren't evolving, they're accelerating.
How is PepsiCo reshaping its future while staying true to the brands consumers love? In this episode, host Matt Mueller sits down with Michael Del Pozzo, President of PepsiCo North America, to explore the company's bold new chapter. They discuss: - How PepsiCo balances data-driven precision with creative instinct - What's fueling innovation across beverages, snacks, and brand refreshes - How “One PepsiCo” is accelerating speed, collaboration, and retail partnerships Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
On this episode of “Building a Modern Food Brand,” host Christina Downey sits down with Matthew Newman, CCO at It's Skinny, to talk about the hard choices founders must make early — and why focus, discipline, and a clear go-to-market strategy matter more than saying “yes” to everyone. Matthew shares: - Why startups must define where they want to live — and hold firm - How It's Skinny reset its core strategy before scaling - The breakthrough behind their new low-carb, low-calorie rice innovation
What happens when automation, speed, and smart fulfillment collide in the grocery industry? In this episode of the Global Retail Leaders Podcast by RETHINK Retail, host Theo sits down with Petr Lizner of Rohlik Group - one of Europe's fastest-growing online grocers, to walk us through how Rohlik's blend of automation hardware and in-house software is redefining what modern grocery can achieve. They explore: - How Rohlik scales high-efficiency online operations across multiple countries - How scalable automation can work in the online grocery environment - The surprising fulfillment metrics, like near-zero commercial shrink, that online models can outperform offline retail on. Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
Value isn't just about low prices anymore. As shoppers become more intentional and economic pressures rise, retailers are shifting their strategies—from promotions and pricing to emotional connection and brand authenticity. We dive into how value is being redefined across the industry. Joined by experts Andrew Smith, Carol Spieckerman, Liza Amlani, and Andrea K. Leigh, we explore how retailers are aligning with evolving shopper priorities and what “value” really means today. Special thanks to Adobe and Icertis for making this episode possible!
What happens when technology meets true customer empathy? In this episode of Rethink Retail: Global Retail Leaders, host Alex Baker sits down with Uttam Kumar, Engineering Manager at American Eagle Outfitters, to discuss: - How engineers are becoming storytellers and changemakers in retail - The real role of AI — beyond recommendations, toward anticipation - Why successful digital transformation starts with people, not tech - Moving from waterfall to agile: lessons from 17+ years in retail systems - How hyper-personalization and data discipline define the next retail decade
EuroShop only happens once every three years — and every edition sets the pace for the future of global retail. In the latest RETHINK Retail Podcast, host Alexis sits down with EuroShop Director Elke Moebius and EHI Senior VP Ulrich Spaan for an inside look at what's new, what's evolving, and what the world can expect from EuroShop 2026 in Düsseldorf — including its first-ever expansion to Dubai. If you're shaping the next wave of store design, retail tech, or shopper experience, or planning your trip to one of Europe's biggest retail events, this is an episode you don't want to miss.
In this Rethink Retail podcast episode live from Groceryshop, David Weinand (Incisiv) speaks with Elisa Lyew, founder of Elisa's Love Bites, on transforming her passion for clean, better-for-you desserts into a fast-growing national brand. They explore: - How Elisa pivoted from a decade-long NYC bakery to a scalable CPG model - Why clean ingredients, gluten-free recipes, and refined-sugar-free sweets set the brand apart - The focus on a hero product — the chocolate-chip cookie — as the foundation for national expansion Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
Join Timm Henderlight, Lead Strategy Consultant at Perficient, and Rick Olson, Consult Partner at Kyndryl, as they reveal how predictive analytics and AI are transforming holiday retail planning. Discover how retailers are: - Forecasting demand with greater accuracy - Optimizing inventory and assortments - Streamlining operations for peak season Whether you're a retailer looking to gain a competitive edge or simply curious about how data drives holiday success, this episode offers practical insights to help you plan smarter and sell more. Special thanks to @Kyndryl for making this episode possible Listen Now
What happens when passion, purpose, and technology collide on water? In this Rethink Retail: Global Leaders episode, host Ninaad Acharya sits down with Bruce Smith, Founder & Chairman at Hydrow, the premium connected rowing experience redefining home fitness. They explore: - How daily movement can make the world a kinder place - What it takes to build three companies in one — hardware, software, and content - The challenge of scaling while keeping authentic community at the core - Why “the customer is the company” at Hydrow - How founder mindset and leadership evolve through growth - The next frontier: personalization, AI, and the end of cohorts Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
Welcome to Omnichannel Reimagined: A new RETHINK Retail & VTEX Video Podcast Series giving senior retail leaders an insider's edge on the trends, tech, and tactics shaping the future of B2C and B2B commerce, from seamless digital storefronts to AI-powered experiences. In Episode 1, Top Retail Expert Brendan Witcher sits down with Santiago Naranjo, CRO at VTEX, to explore how AI is reshaping the buyer journey, whether websites are becoming obsolete in an AI-first world, the risks of letting AI platforms control customer relationships and how enterprise brands can remain indispensable, even when shoppers never visit them directly.
How does a century-old luxury lingerie brand balance craftsmanship, connection, and cutting-edge technology? In this Rethink Retail episode, Cathy McCabe, CEO of Proximity, sits down with Marianna Satanas, President of Hanro USA, to explore how timeless values can drive modern transformation. They discuss: - Turning heritage and craftsmanship into a modern customer experience - How human connection still defines true clienteling in luxury - Why authenticity and personalization matter more than ever - Using AI to empower teams and give customers real choice - How sustainability, quality, and emotional value shape buying behavior today
The shelf era is over—and the rules of CPG growth are changing fast.
How does a Japanese brand turn 150-year-old silk into a global haircare phenomenon? Alex Baker sits down with Kodai Takahashi, co-founder & CEO of Silk the Rich, to explore: - Transforming heritage silk into affordable luxury haircare - Scaling from 4 bottles sold to 10,000+ stores worldwide - Blending premium product experience with eco-friendly innovation (silk-based plastics!) - Leveraging AI for customer support and community engagement - Adapting to cultural differences while maintaining brand consistency Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
Self-checkout is hitting its inflection point in retail! From frictionless AI-powered produce scanning to better integration with loyalty and payment systems, the future of in-store shopping is all about speed, efficiency, and smart tech. Key takeaway: Success comes from getting the basics right, integrating technology, measuring the right KPIs, and aligning staff, not just chasing the “next shiny thing.” Check out the full insights from our Rethink Retail podcast with Host Trevor Sumner, Nino Hörttrich from Diebold Nixdorf and Amar Mokha from Incisiv.
In this special episode of Retailer Tech Tips from Groceryshop 2025, Theo Schweitz, CEO of Drive Wheel and Top Retail Expert, sits down with Rakesh Thaploo, Sr. Partner at Kyndryl, to explore the next era of grocery retail transformation. Together, they discuss how modern grocers are leveraging AI, analytics, and digital store technologies to reduce shrink, boost margins, and deliver richer customer experiences. From the evolution of in-store engagement to the rise of connected data ecosystems, this episode offers practical insights into how retailers can modernize operations while staying true to their consumers.
C-stores aren't just convenience stops, they're labs for bold new ideas. On the latest RETHINK Retail Podcast, host Jessica Couch talks with: - Yvette Fossum from Ferrero about their newest c-store launches and how they test big ideas in small spaces - Isabella Chia from Wells Enterprises on how ice cream innovations in c-stores spark brand-wide strategies Fun, fast, and full of real-world insights, hear why brands are leaning on convenience stores to innovate
How do grocery leaders balance efficiency and customer experience in the age of automation? Recorded at Groceryshop, this RETHINK Retail podcast brings together:
Fiscal Compliance Isn't a Hurdle. It's Your Launchpad for Innovation Compliance is complex, but ignoring it is riskier. In the latest episode of Next‑Gen POS, host Scott Wueschinski talks with Darko Pavic, CEO of Fiscal Solutions, about how fiscalization can reshape modern retail. You'll learn: - Why fiscalization is more than e-invoicing - How compliant POS systems enable livestream shopping, self-checkout, and omnichannel promotions - How AI tools like FiscalGPT simplify country-specific compliance #RetailTech #POSInnovation #FiscalCompliance #Omnichannel #DigitalRetail
Fiscal Compliance Isn't a Hurdle. It's Your Launchpad for Innovation Compliance is complex, but ignoring it is riskier. In the latest episode of Next‑Gen POS, host Scott Wueschinski talks with Darko Pavic, CEO of Fiscal Solutions, about how fiscalization can reshape modern retail. You'll learn: - Why fiscalization is more than e-invoicing - How compliant POS systems enable livestream shopping, self-checkout, and omnichannel promotions - How AI tools like FiscalGPT simplify country-specific compliance #RetailTech #POSInnovation #FiscalCompliance #Omnichannel #DigitalRetail
How do grocery leaders balance efficiency and customer experience in the age of automation? Recorded at Groceryshop, this RETHINK Retail podcast brings together:
How does a 200-year-old porcelain icon stay relevant in the digital age? Alex Baker interviews, Vista Alegre's Chief Digital Officer, Carla Graça, shares how the brand is blending rich heritage with bold digital transformation by: - Building a strong digital presence and expanding globally - Driving innovation in factories and design while preserving craftsmanship - Using technology to empower people, not replace them - Creating seamless omnichannel customer experiences online and in-store From heritage storytelling to AI-driven tools, Vista Alegre proves that tradition and innovation can thrive together. Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
Extreme weather and unexpected disruptions can hit retailers hard, from spoilage and theft to costly downtime. In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, host Andrew Smith (Top Retail Expert & Co-Founder, ThinkUncommon) sits down with Jeff Kenniston (Sr. Manager of Solutions Engineering, T-Mobile) to explore how retailers can prepare before disaster strikes.
Skinny Mixes isn't just about syrups, it's about creating everyday moments that are simply sweeter. Melissa Minkow sits down with Tim Snyder, CEO of Skinny Mixes, to explore how the brand grew from a cult favorite into a social-forward powerhouse with over 100 flavors and a community of raving fans. Highlights include: - Why listening is Skinny Mixes' secret sauce for loyalty and engagement - How fans drive recipe sharing, product discovery, and viral trends like #WaterTok - The role of DTC, retail partnerships, and the brand's own app in reaching consumers - Limited-time flavors like apple crisp and nostalgic soda collections that keep fans coming back
How are leading retailers and brands using AI to transform shopping? Nordstrom's Brad Tucker, Mars' Shashank Kadetotad, and HCLTech's Debraj Bhattacharya join Rethink Retail to explore: - Smarter personalization and recommendations - Greater operational efficiency - Faster product innovation - AI's role in sustainability and customer loyalty From generative to agentic AI, discover how companies are turning data into insight and creating the future of retail.
Global Healing calls itself the “Rolls Royce of supplements”, and for good reason. With 28 years in the industry, the brand leads with transparency, quality, and an unapologetically bold voice. In this episode, David Polinchock sits down with Kendall McMullen to explore: - Why manufacturing transparency and supply chain control set Global Healing apart - How storytelling, authenticity, and “brand humanification” drive trust with Gen Z and beyond - The bold stance on cutting through “AI fluff” to deliver real substance - Leadership insights from a Gen Z marketing manager building empowered, cross-channel teams - Why being “unapologetically bold” beats playing it safe in today's noisy wellness market
In this episode, host Matt Muller, Principal Consultant at Rethink Retail and author of The Mindful Innovator, welcomes Rocquan Lucas, VP of Content at GroceryShop, to talk about the flagship event shaping the future of grocery and CPG. Key Insights: - How GroceryShop has grown since its 2018 debut into a global stage for grocery and CPG innovation - The rise of agentic AI and its real-world applications - Balancing efficiency with customer engagement in stores - Why planning with purpose (and breaking silos) is key for innovation
What happens when you mix the science of data with the art of human connection? That's the theme behind Shoptalk Fall 2025, Retail Alchemy. In this episode of the RETHINK Retail podcast, HG O'Connell joins host Sharon Gai to share how ShopTalk Fall is creating an intimate, experimental space for retail leaders. Highlights include: - Why Shoptalk Fall is designed as a “lab” for testing new formats and ideas - This year's theme of Retail Alchemy and how it plays out across sessions and the show floor - The rise of AI fatigue, and the demand for real case studies with measurable results - The return of Shopwalks, taking execs on curated tours Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
Hosted by Nino Horttrich, and with the collaboration of Arvin Jawa of Diebold Nixdorf, we explore how Tillster is solving some of the biggest challenges in QSR. From tackling operational challenges to improving speed, personalization, and consistency, this conversation explores how strategic partnerships can transform the customer journey and future-proof restaurant operations.
We're halfway through 2025, and retail is riding a wild mix of breakthroughs, challenges, and shifting shopper habits. In this special mid-year episode, host Andrew Smith (ThinkUncommon) is joined by top retail experts Neil Saunders (GlobalData Retail), Jerry Sheldon (IHL Services), and Sucharita Kodali (Forrester Research) to unpack: The biggest retail stories and consumer shifts so far Which tech is delivering real impact (and which is still just hype) Smart strategies to protect margins and run leaner ops Advice for the months ahead
In this new episode of Retailer Tech Tips, we explore how geospatial data is redefining store planning, logistics, and customer experience in real time.
In this episode of Rethink Retail, host Marie Driscoll sits down with Amrita Bhasin, CEO at Sotira, a leading voice in reverse logistics, to explore how AI, overstock management, and sustainability are transforming the future of retail. Reverse logistics is now an $800 billion global industry, yet remains one of the most under-discussed pillars of modern commerce. With e-commerce return rates as high as 50%, and growing concerns over landfill waste, brands are urgently seeking smarter solutions for excess inventory.
Redefining Trust in Online Jewelry Retail by
Nick Harbaugh talks with Shira Libhaber of Marcella, one of America's fastest-growing fashion brands. Shira dives into how the company combines timeless design, global expansion, and next-gen tech to create a scalable yet purpose-driven model.
Rethink Retail brings together two powerhouses shaping the future of commerce:
Renee Hartmann chats with Jean-Sébastien Crevier, VP of Sales and Marketing at WeCook, live from Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona. Jean-Sébastien shares how WeCook is scaling Canada's ready-to-eat meal space through data-first strategies, predictive churn models, and a no-gimmick approach to loyalty. Learn how his team balances growth with profitability, what really works in paid vs. organic social, and how AI is reshaping their marketing ops. Join the conversation with our global retail community at www.globalretailleaders.com
On the floor at Shoptalk Europe, RETHINK Retail's Marie Driscoll sits down with Nicolas Kroeger, Chief Digital Transformation Officer at Manor AG, Switzerland's largest department store chain. In a dynamic conversation, Nicolas shares how his expanded role is driving process efficiency and innovation through AI across departments.
Live from the LEAD Summit, Sandy Hernandez sits down with Sarah Angelmar, Executive Director of Customer Experience at Clarins Group, the brand that helped define “clean beauty” before it was a trend. From their AI chatbot "Cara" to the emotional science behind loyalty, Sarah reveals how Clarins blends 71 years of family heritage with bold CX innovation. Timestamps [02:00] – Clarins' roots: From plant science to prestige skincare [05:30] – "Cara": The AI chatbot that supports (not replaces) beauty advisors [08:15] – Why Clarins became a B-Corp, and what it means for customers [11:45] – Rethinking loyalty: No points. No gimmicks. Just trust. [15:20] – How customer emotion informs CX design [19:10] – Family-owned in a corporate world: Moving fast without losing soul ✨ “We don't want to be transactional. We want to be unforgettable” — Sarah Angelmar Join our global retail community: www.globalretailleaders.com
What does it take to bring authentic Korean traditional food to a global audience through e-commerce? David Polinchock chats with Ryan Kim, founder of Kim'C Market, a Korean food import business, to explore how personal experience sparked a mission to deliver healthier, artisanal products directly from Korean farmers. ⏱ Timestamps: [00:00] Ryan's personal story: loss and health awakening [02:30] Starting an e-commerce brand with no prior experience [05:00] Sourcing authentic ingredients: visiting farmers in Korea [08:00] Educating customers on fermentation and product quality [11:00] Navigating marketing and growing a diverse customer base [14:00] The power of authenticity and direct relationships [17:00] Lessons learned and future plans for expansion
Rethink Retail, was live at The Lead 2025 in NYC with our host Liza Amlani and Dr. Alisa Brady, founder of Sweetums, a fast-growing beauty and sexual wellness brand blending intimacy, scent, and science. A clinical psychologist turned entrepreneur, Dr. Brady shares how customer data, cognitive research, and product innovation are driving Sweetums' retail expansion. From flavored intimate wipes to lip balm with a built-in applicator, learn how Sweetums is taking pleasure mainstream, one scented swipe at a time. You'll hear: - How Dr. Brady used psychology and scent science to design her first product - What the data really says about men, cinnamon buns, and buying behavior - Why women are the surprise buyers of Sweetums' men's line - How flavored fragrance and function-first packaging are driving connection - Where Sweetums is winning in retail and what's next after The Lead 2025 pitch stage Join our global retail community: www.globalretailleaders.com
Retailer Tech Tips: How Retailers are Driving Next-Gen Fulfillment Strategies In this episode, we're diving deep into how retailers are transforming fulfillment with the power of cloud technology. Brandon Rael (Kyndryl), Prateek Trivedi (Cognizant), and Shannon Kirk Nakamoto (Icertis) join us to unpack fulfillment strategies that deliver speed, agility, and customer satisfaction in an increasingly digital retail landscape. Key takeaways include: - The evolution of modern fulfillment - Automation and AI in warehouse operations - Dropshipping, hybrid models, and micro-fulfillment - Vendor collaboration through smarter data - Real-time tracking and visibility - Addressing labor, sustainability, and delivery challenges Whether you're reimagining your supply chain or scaling fulfillment for the holidays, this episode delivers practical insights and future-forward strategies to keep your business moving.
What's the secret to transforming traditional hospital wear into stylish, comfortable, and empowering apparel? Host Robin Barrett Wilson sits down with Chaitenya Razdan, Founder of Care + Wear, to uncover how this visionary brand is changing the face of healthcare uniforms. Discover their mission to blend fashion with function, elevate caregiver morale, and push the boundaries of medical apparel design. ⏱ Timestamps: [00:00] Care & Wear's origin story and vision [03:10] Designing for comfort without sacrificing style [06:50] How Care & Wear supports healthcare workers' confidence [10:20] Overcoming challenges in a conservative industry [14:00] Future plans: innovation, sustainability, and growth [17:30] Chet's top tips for entrepreneurship and brand building
On this episode of Rethink Retail, host Marie Driscoll sits down with Shunda Lynch, luxury retail expert with extensive experience at Bloomingdale´s. Shunda shares her unexpected journey into luxury retail, from studying fashion design to building a loyal clientele through passion and deep relationship-building. Hear how her love for classic and innovative luxury brands shaped her approach in a competitive industry. Join the conversation and gain fresh insights into luxury retail leadership and customer connection. Join our global retail community: www.globalretailleaders.com
Welcome to Rethink Retail, the podcast where we uncover the stories and strategies behind some of the world's most successful brands. From retail giants to ecommerce disruptors, we reveal the secrets of their success and share key insights to drive true retail transformation. Shannon Flanagan chats with Jessica Rosario-Calcano, VP of Merchandising at Perry Ellis International. Jessica shares her unique journey into merchandising, her philosophy of balancing data-driven decisions with creativity, and how collaboration across teams fuels innovation. Tune in to explore how the future of retail and AI are shaping the industry today, are you ready to rethink retail?
What sets great brands apart in the age of AI? Maria Carlton, former Under Armour Senior Director and retail strategist, joins host Alan Malcomson live from The Lead Summit in New York. With 20+ years in the industry, Maria shares lessons on agility, authenticity, and leadership, from driving predictive analytics to embracing sustainability and mentoring future talent. ⏱️ Highlights: [01:00] Retail's constant evolution [03:30] How AI is transforming operations [06:00] The secret to brand authenticity [10:00] Agility & future-proof leadership
In this episode of Rethink Retail, host Rebekah Kondrat speaks with Victoria Katsarou, VP of Global Retail at Estée Lauder Companies, live from The Lead. Victoria unpacks how Estée Lauder blends luxury, innovation, and humanity to shape the future of beauty retail. From building agile teams to staying laser-focused on the consumer experience, her people-first philosophy drives transformation at scale. We cover: ✔️ Leading with empathy in a global retail org ✔️ How tech enhances, not replaces, the human connection ✔️ Scaling agility across 150+ markets ✔️ What the future of beauty retail looks like
In this episode of Rethink Retail, host Sharon Yourell sits down with Dr. Michael Schulte from Diebold Nixdorf and Reghu Kutikat from Lulu Group to explore how strategic partnerships and advanced retail tech are transforming in-store experiences. From smart checkouts to data-driven loyalty, discover how retailers are using personalization, automation, and AI to future-proof their businesses and deepen customer engagement.
The Future of Commerce & Community with David Polinchock & Richard Honiball Welcome to Rethink Retail, the podcast where we uncover the stories and strategies behind some of the most successful retail markets worldwide. From traditional giants to e-commerce disruptors, we explore the secrets behind their success and deliver insights to transform the real retail experience. In this episode, David Polinchock and Richard Honiball dive into how the future of retail blends AI, community, and unified commerce, especially through the eyes of the younger generation. Discover how the concept of the “third place” is evolving and why creating authentic, connected retail experiences matters now more than ever.
In this podcast, top industry experts share how retailers can unify their in-store technologies to drive growth and improve customer experience. Featuring:
The Cyber Edge: Retail Security in an AI-Powered World by
© 2020-2025 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
