The Retail Journey

In this episode of The Retail Journey, Simone Parry, former Vice President of Private Brands for Consumables at Walmart, joins us to discuss how private brands are evolving in today's retail environment. She reflects on her time at Walmart, where she worked across cross-functional teams to build private label strategies, improve supplier partnerships, and support category performance.Now with High Impact Analytics, Simone leads Growth & Development. She has been integral in launching High Impact's Private Brand Hub - built to equip your team with tailored support through product ideation to the retail shelf. This episode offers a practical look at the challenges and opportunities in managing private brands at scale—and where the industry is heading next.

Ever wonder what happens when purpose drives a business more than profit? In this captivating conversation, Bill and Sheila Ford, founders of Ozark Mountain Bagel Company, reveal how a chance question – "Hey, you want to open a bagel shop?" – transformed their lives and the Northwest Arkansas food scene.The Fords share their remarkable journey from careers in oil refining and education to becoming beloved bagel entrepreneurs. After running a successful bagel shop in Oklahoma for eight years, they relocated to Northwest Arkansas in 2017, seeking a new adventure where they could continue their mission of "spreading joy, love, and cream cheese." What they discovered was a business community unlike any they'd experienced – collaborative rather than competitive, where even potential rivals reached out to offer help.At the heart of their story is a leadership philosophy that treats employees as partners rather than subordinates. With roughly 75% of their workforce being teenagers in their first jobs, Bill and Sheila focus on developing future leaders, challenging them to think beyond themselves and find purpose in their work. This approach has created a culture where employees feel valued and customers experience genuine warmth with every visit.The Fords' business acumen shines through as they discuss their growth from a single location to six stores across Northwest Arkansas, including one in Walmart's new food hall. Their expansion strategy balances opportunity with purpose – they're developing a franchise model but emphasize finding the right people who align with their values rather than growing for growth's sake.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone who appreciates authentic leadership, this conversation offers valuable insights about building a business with heart. Subscribe now to hear more inspiring stories from local entrepreneurs who are shaping Northwest Arkansas and beyond.

When we sat down with Jeff Clapper, President and CEO of 8th & Walton, we knew we'd get insights on supplier training – but our conversation revealed something much more profound about the evolving retail landscape.From its origins teaching suppliers about Walmart's culture and systems to today's comprehensive support services, 8th & Walton has witnessed and adapted to dramatic shifts in what suppliers need to succeed. Jeff shares how the organization now balances urgent operational training with strategic education that prevents problems before they occur.The transition from legacy data systems like DSS to new platforms like Scintilla represents both challenge and opportunity. While these systems offer unprecedented visibility into consumer behavior, they demand constant learning from suppliers who can't afford to fall behind. As Jeff aptly describes, success requires being an "aggressive student" of retail – recognizing that yesterday's expertise quickly becomes obsolete in this fast-moving environment.Jeff shares about 8th Walton's journey to becoming a certified B Corporation, demonstrating that business growth and positive impact aren't mutually exclusive. Jeff's perspective on "scaling values" rather than just scaling revenue offers a refreshing counterpoint to traditional retail metrics. This philosophy aligns perfectly with the emerging trend of consumers preferring brands that demonstrate ethical practices and sustainability.The conversation culminates with Jeff's preview of the upcoming "Consumer Impact" event in Bentonville, bringing together impact-minded brands to share best practices in sustainable retail. It's a tangible example of how the supplier community is evolving beyond transactions to create meaningful change.Whether you're a seasoned Walmart supplier or just beginning your retail journey, this episode offers valuable perspective on navigating today's complex retail environment while building a business that makes a positive difference.

In this episode, we hear all about the artistic and cultural transformation happening in Northwest Arkansas as we chat with Jill Wagar, the visionary director of the Momentary and senior director at Crystal Bridges. Explore Alice Walton's profound philanthropic endeavors, including the Art Bridges Foundation, designed to bring art to communities nationwide. We discuss the collaborative spirit that drives Alice Walton's visionary projects, from free museum admission policies supported by Walmart to groundbreaking educational initiatives like the Alice Walton School of Medicine. Jill sheds light on how these initiatives not only make art more accessible but also aim to transform healthcare delivery, emphasizing the Walton family's significant investments in the region's growth and accessibility.Jill shares about the magic behind the Momentary, where art meets entertainment in unforgettable ways. From renowned performances by Brothers Osborne to the unique Supper Club food series, the Momentary has become a beloved community hub. She shares exciting news on upcoming events and festivals like Send it South, a thrilling blend of mountain biking and music, promising to captivate art and music enthusiasts alike. Join us as Jill invites collaboration and engagement, reinforcing the community aspect of these cultural gatherings.

Join us for a captivating conversation with Joe Murphy, the trailblazing founder of ShelfSight, as he shares his remarkable journey from a sales career to becoming a product management visionary. ShelfSight is transforming the way we understand product listing pages on Walmart, offering groundbreaking insights into search rankings, ratings, and reviews. With Joe's expertise, we reveal how blending organic and paid traffic strategies can revolutionize online sales and enhance digital shelf presence.We uncover the dynamic evolution of Walmart's online platform, where complete product attributes are now essential for success. Walmart's Creator Program offers innovative tools for suppliers to strengthen their online presence, while Walmart Connect campaigns underscore the significance of the platform as a vital research and advertising hub for in-store shopping.We also dive into the role of AI in streamlining processes and generating content, offering a glimpse into a future where automation facilitates rapid growth. The episode also addresses the strategic intricacies of retail media, from optimizing landing pages and search efforts to tackling offsite conversion tracking challenges. For suppliers hesitant about retail media costs, we provide practical recommendations, including the benefits of starting with low-budget automated campaigns and using marketplace platforms as testing grounds for new products.

Explore Bentonville, Arkansas, with Brandon Gingelbach, President and CEO of the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce. Brandon shares what drew him to Northwest Arkansas, including professional opportunities and his love for cycling. We dive into Bentonville's unique vibe, blending local entrepreneurship, major corporations like Walmart, and a thriving community spirit.Hear how the Chamber fosters business growth, connects Walmart employees with the community, and champions Bentonville's vibrant culture—complete with great schools, restaurants, arts, and outdoor adventures.We also look ahead to exciting projects, like the Alice Walton School of Medicine and collaborations with Cleveland Clinic and Mercy, while reflecting on lessons learned and the importance of creating emotional connections in a welcoming community. Tune in for a fresh take on Bentonville's growth and its bright future!

Discover the transformative power of an integrated store and online strategy as we explore the journey with Reid Thornton and Adam McFain, the brilliant minds behind Spark Strategy. From their serendipitous beginnings at Walmart to the innovative solutions they crafted for the retail giant, Reid and Adam share about the transformative power of an integrated store and online strategy. Reid recounts a chance encounter with Walmart's chief merchant that led him to Arkansas, while Adam reflects on his transition from the University of Arkansas football field to Walmart's merchant training program. Celebrating Spark Strategy's third anniversary, they discuss the significance of the merchant mindset in retail strategy.

Curious about the secret sauce behind Walmart's successful private brands? Tune in to hear Simone Parry, former Vice President of Private Brands for Consumables at Walmart, share her incredible journey from South Africa to the US. Simone's insights into her roles at Unilever, Pick and Pay, and Massmart offer a fascinating look at the variations in private brand penetration across markets. She also recounts her personal experiences of relocating her family and managing prominent brands across the box.

Imagine the transformative power of a marketplace that not only thrives on quality products but also on the stories of the people who craft them. That's precisely the vision Kaylynn Jordan, the founder of Ethical Sourcing Network and Global Purpose, walks us through in our latest chat. Kaylynn's passion for India and the rights of workers in the global supply chain paints a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs in connecting conscientious manufacturers with major U.S. retailers. Her narrative is a testament to the idea that behind every product is a person, a family, and a community whose life could be uplifted through ethical practices.Navigating the intricate landscape of supply chains, our discussion pivots to the increasing reliance on Indian manufacturing capabilities and the ripple effect it has on the industry. The conversation uncovers how a surge in Indian entrepreneurs' investment in their businesses and their embrace of quality control measures are meeting the demanding standards of large-scale retailers. There's an unmistakable buzz surrounding the potential for India to revolutionize its production status quo—something we're keeping a close eye on for its ability to reshape the global market.Wrapping up, we turn to the deep-seated impact of generational manufacturing and the importance of honoring cultural distinctions in corporate collaborations. There's a heartwarming recognition of the real difference made when companies engage in responsible employment, especially in empowering women and supporting education initiatives. It's a profound look at how enterprises can leave a lasting, positive imprint on communities, far beyond the bottom line. These stories and more await you—so make sure to hit that subscribe button for a front-row seat to the unfolding narrative of retail reinvention.

Curious about how Walmart tackles disasters with precision and preparedness? Join us in a conversation with Jen Enssle, Walmart's Director of Supply Chain Emergency Operations, as she shares her strategies for managing emergencies like hurricanes and tornadoes. From meticulous contingency planning to educating store operators, Jen gives us a front-row seat to the intricate process that keeps Walmart stores running smoothly even during natural disasters. 

Embark on a digital odyssey with Toby Teeter, a former law student turned internet entrepreneur extraordinaire. As Toby narrates his transformation from a legal eagle to a digital marketing maven, he spills the secrets behind creating an online business empire that started with humble one-page websites. Journey with us through the origins of Toby's forays into affiliate marketing, the serendipity of unexpected partnerships, and the thrill of taking his ad network, Valid Click, to the public stage. It's a story that celebrates the boundless potential of the internet and the relentless pursuit of an entrepreneurial vision.In the realm of e-commerce, strategy is king, and this episode unpacks Toby's masterful pivot from low-cost goods to premium product launches. As the architect behind brands such as Urban Cycling Apparel, he shares the gear shifts needed to thrive on Amazon's complex playing field. Listen to the tales of collaboration and creativity that forged partnerships stretching from furniture to fitness gear, and grill parts to high-end puzzle boards. This chapter is not just a chronicle of e-commerce evolution; it's a blueprint for any aspiring entrepreneur looking to craft a brand in the digital marketplace.Venture into the innovative heartland of Bentonville, Arkansas, where Toby is shaping the future of entrepreneurship at the University of Arkansas and beyond. Discover how initiatives like the Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program fuel the fire of innovation and how embracing both success and failure is crucial for growth. Then, take a turn towards the personal as we explore health optimization and the empowering journey of taking health into our own hands. This episode isn't just a podcast; it's an invitation to be inspired, to learn, and to transform with us. Tune in for a conversation that's as much about navigating the vast e-commerce seas as it is about charting your course towards health and wellness.

Prepare to be mesmerized by Creighton Kiper, Vice President of Merchandising at Walmart for Beauty as he shares expert insights into the beauty industry's seismic shifts and strategies. This episode is an invitation to peek behind the curtain of Walmart's innovative approach to beauty in 2024, from cutting-edge cosmetics and hair care to the digital transformation propelled by the pandemic. You'll hear firsthand how agility and online engagement have reshaped consumer behavior, fostering a culture where learning from tests and failures is as valuable as the pursuit of personalization.As we unravel the complexity of customer relationships in retail, Creighton illuminates the delicate dance between rapid innovation and the patience to grow sustainably. We explore the core of Walmart's pricing strategy and its intersection with product availability, ensuring customers are never disappointed. The journey of brands at Walmart emerges as a masterclass in starting small and scaling with precision, while the Walmart Start accelerator is spotlighted as a beacon of support for burgeoning businesses aiming to carve out their market space.Closing the conversation, we reflect on the unpredictability of change and its ripple effect on supplier partnerships. Creighton shares invaluable advice for suppliers eager to navigate the Walmart waters, revealing the significance of tenacity and the power of clear communication. We wrap up with a dash of humanity, sharing our latest literary explorations into our complex relationship with time and technology, and a chuckle-worthy anecdote from the front lines of Walmart's retail adventures. Join us for a journey through the transformative world of retail beauty and beyond.

Get ready to unlock the secrets of retail analytics success with James Harris as he joins Charles Greathouse to explore the transformative impact of High Impact on small brands navigating the complex world of Walmart. With James' rich expertise in analytics, replenishment, and sales, we expose the unbalanced battlefield where smaller suppliers frequently find themselves outgunned. Our expansive discussion covers the necessity of a robust support system and a well-rounded team to meet the stringent demands of big retailers, offering an eye-opening look at the disparities between large and small firms and how High Impact aims to level the playing field.Have you ever wondered what it takes to fine-tune your brand's survival in the retail jungle? This episode peels back the curtain on the meticulous world of data analysis, from logistical hiccups like over-ordering dog food to mastering Walmart's OTIF compliance. James shares war stories from his early days, emphasizing the evolution of planning in this ever-changing sector. We also dive into the potential of new analytical tools, such as High Impact's Pharaoh's Reporting Suite, to enhance data-driven strategies—a must-listen for anyone yearning to turn information into gold.Finally, we discuss the revolutionized landscape of retail advertising, tackling the importance of Walmart Connect for small businesses and the subtleties of ROI testing in the post-COVID era. We also reflect on High Impact's journey since 2007, the pivotal lessons learned along the way, and the power of strong partnerships. Sprinkled with personal anecdotes and a nod to my affinity for historical fiction, this conversation is a treasure for anyone eager to grow their brand and those fascinated by the narrative of retail. Don't miss out on these retail gems—your next strategic move could be hidden within.

As we journey through the winding path of retail adventures, Andrew Mull, the savvy head of sales at Flybar, joins us to unravel his tapestry of experiences. His rise from Michigan's retail roots to the forefront of Walmart's sales floor is a story of grit, innovation, and a keen eye for what shoppers truly want. Through engaging tales, Andrew paints a picture of his transition from the foundational lessons at United Legwear to the thrill of capturing a Walmart buyer's attention with a unique baby company venture he started with his wife.In an industry where the giants often overshadow the up-and-comers, Andrew's insights are golden nuggets for anyone eager to carve out their own success story. He brings to light the formidable challenge of introducing a premium brand into the mass market, revealing the behind-the-scenes strategies, and the relentless persistence required to thrive. Andrew's narrative serves as a beacon for budding entrepreneurs, highlighting the joy found in creating products that resonate with customers' sense of fun and delight.Closing the loop, we step behind-the-scenes into Andrew's personal world of tastes and music. His preference for the beats of R&B and rap adds another layer to the multifaceted life of a retail maestro. Reflecting on the exhilarating sprint to launch a new children's bumper car at Walmart, Andrew leaves us with a sense of awe at the pace and passion required to turn a simple idea into a reality that brings joy to the aisles and to children's lives. Join us for an episode that's as much about the rhythm of business as it is about the music of life.

Unlock the secrets to successful category growth with the wisdom of Todd Rupp, the 'Todd Father' of Category Management, as he navigates the intricacies of evolving retail landscapes at High Impact. Our Director of Category Growth shares his transformative journey from sales to category mastery, focusing on the power of aligning with consumer needs rather than solely pushing brands. This episode is a treasure trove of insights as we discuss best practices in retail analytics, the transition from DSS to Walmart Luminate, and the vital role of ROI in securing leadership buy-in for innovative data-driven strategies.Get ready to go beyond the barcode with a deep dive into Walmart's shopper behavior data utilization. As traditional DSS becomes a relic of the past, our conversation with Todd unveils how customization in analytics is becoming the bedrock of understanding consumer patterns. We tackle the hard decisions companies face in a race against the clock—a choice between basic and advanced data access. Todd's expertise in incremental sales and customer reports spotlights how data not only refines merchant dialogues but also sharpens top-tier decision-making frameworks.Finally, we take a look at the real-world implications of category management failures and successes. Category growth isn't just about the next big flavor; it's about adding true value to the consumer's experience. Jeff Lerner's transformation from high school dropout to seasoned entrepreneur underscores the boundless potential residing in us all. The episode wraps with a candid examination of consumer behavior, dissecting the dichotomy between stated desires and actual buying habits. Whether you're a retail aficionado or an emerging brand strategist, this episode offers invaluable lessons on steering through the complex tides of market demands and consumer choices.

Embark on a flavor-packed journey with Brandon Pogue, CEO of TruLabs, as he shares the remarkable pivot from construction and real estate to the burgeoning industry of natural health products. Brandon recounts how a passion for palatable supplements led to the creation of TruLabs, where great taste meets potent efficacy. You'll be privy to the innovative steps taken to produce a unique pre-workout system that tackles fatigue head-on. As our conversation unfolds, learn how he infuses his work and personal life with faith-based principles, from the pages of "The Imitation of Christ" to the chicken coop in his backyard.We'll also take a closer look at the strategic decisions that have propelled TruLabs forward, especially the bold move into retail during a time when e-commerce seemed king. Brandon's insights into adapting to market trends, and his anecdotal tales from a record-setting Sam's Club Roadshow, will have you reconsidering what it means to engage customers and capitalize on chance encounters. He paints a vivid picture of a brand that goes beyond mere transactions, offering a sensory experience that resonates with consumers and challenges the norms of shopping.Finally, we pull back the curtain on the vibrant work culture at TruLabs and the ethos that drives their brand. Brandon describes an environment that emulates an extended family, where joy and utility of products go hand in hand. He also gives a nod to future innovations, the importance of product presentation, and the excitement of carving out new territories in a competitive landscape. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just curious about the intersection of business and wellness, this episode promises a blend of practical wisdom, heartfelt values, and a vision for a healthier, taste-filled future.

Are you ready to navigate the turbulent seas of data-driven decisions, especially the upcoming move from DSS to Walmart Luminate? Anchor yourself with our hosts, Charles Greathouse and James Harris, as we chart a course through the coming transition from DSS to Walmart Luminate. We're here to help you understand the differences between basic and charter access, and the potential benefits of charter. We'll also share about the new innovations and advantages that Walmart Luminate has to offer! Hear insights from our time at Walmart and glean from our experience with clients, aiding you to make informed decisions about how to proceed.Ever wondered how to better use data to understand shopper behavior? We dive into the changes in data reporting with Walmart Luminate, shedding light on opportunities and challenges. We also unveil and explain Pharos, our retail analytics suite, custom-built to enhance your decision-making process and deliver superior results. Listen as we discuss the importance of involving analysts and customers in the development of tools that can provide comprehensive solutions. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for suppliers eager to navigate the evolving landscape of working with Walmart.

What happens when you bring together retail strategy and influencer Bryan Gildenberg into a deep dive into the transforming landscape of retail? You get to explore the fascinating world of data analysis, the impact of AI, and the powerful new strategies that are trending for category growth.In this podcast, Bryan shares from his experience and expertise on why a digital-first approach to retail media in the US is crucial and how it contrasts with other markets. Bryan also shares about his experiences with Walmart Luminate and the escalating importance of first-party data. You'll gain a fresh perspective on the evolution of product discovery and how data is reshaping the retail industry. We'll also navigate through Walmart's category management and its influence on brand growth. Discover how emerging brands can level the playing field using category advisorship and innovative data-driven strategies. You'll also learn about the potential risks and benefits associated with AI in retail and the need to comprehend the algorithms behind it. Join us on this enlightening exploration to expand your understanding of the retail market, along with Bryan Gildenberg's intriguing insights and personal experiences. This is not just another podcast episode, it's a journey through the evolving retail landscape.*Books mentioned during the podcast: "The Coming Wave" by Mustafa Suleyman and Michael Bhaskar, "The Experience Machine" by Andy Clark, and "Tomorrow, Tomorrow, Tomorrow" by Gabrielle Zevin. 

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of the beauty industry? Join us for an insightful journey with Nicole Sentivany, Associate Vice President at e.l.f. Beauty, as she shares her inspiring story of transforming e.l.f.  from a young brand into Target's number one beauty brand. Having honed her skills at Procter & Gamble over a decade, Nicole is a testament to the power of blending prestige quality with accessible pricing in the beauty sector.Nicole doesn't just stop at the sales pitch; she pulls back the curtain on the strategies that propel large-scale growth. She unveils her key principles of maintaining balance and focusing on strategic partnerships. But it's not all about making deals, as Nicole highlights the crucial importance of saying 'no' when partnerships don't align with the brand's ethos or customer needs. Listen how an enriching collaboration with Walmart has significantly widened e.l.f. Beauty's consumer reach. Finally, we delve into the realm of retail therapy and success. Here, Nicole shares her wisdom about the indispensable role of a passionate team and the therapeutic power of retail. Get ready to be inspired by her candid advice for those sailing in the same boat, with a strong emphasis on recognizing and harnessing one's superpowers for success. We invite you to continue this exciting journey with us as we explore the enthralling world of beauty and personal care. Tune in and let's unravel the delicate art of balancing focus and strategic vision together, as we learn to effectively utilize resources at our disposal.

Get set for a captivating conversation with Ashley Caldwell, Senior Director of Retail and Distribution at Embecta and a two-decade-long titan in the retail and consumer packaged goods sectors. Wonder how a passion for data and hands-on experience can fuel success in sales? You will explore the fascinating journey of Ashley, beginning as a field rep for Newell Rubbermaid and climbing the ladder to her current role at the acclaimed diabetes company, Embecta. Additionally, listen in on her anticipation for the upcoming Kiss-A-pig Gala, a noble event with a mission to raise funds for diabetes research.Switching gears, reflect on the evolving landscape of retail healthcare with Ashley. She intricately dissects the importance of building strategic alliances and understanding customer needs. You'll be inspired by her potential to lower the cost of diabetes meters - a testament to the significance of providing affordable healthcare supplies, particularly to underserved communities. The discussion further highlights the role of educating retailers to better assist patients, a segment not to be missed. Ashley also unravels her perspective on forging successful partnerships. Can stepping away from the usual procedures and daring to challenge the status quo lead to success? Ashley believes so. She emphasizes creating a robust financial business case and the power of joint business planning. Get ready to be enlightened by her insights on the importance of a shared vision - a factor she believes is the key to a successful partnership. A conversation filled with gems of wisdom from a true industry veteran, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in retail, healthcare, and everything in between!

Ever wondered how a couple can harmoniously work together in the high-pressure world of retail? Get answers from our engaging chat with Grant and Brooke Dooley, who not only share a household but also a passion for retail merchandising at Walmart. Listen in as they trace their journey from internships to playing critical roles in Walmart's merchandising operations, while juggling work-life balance with three kids at home!The Dooley couple shares how honesty, data presentation, and a deep understanding of the customer can win Walmart's trust and amplify your chance of success. You'll also hear them share critical insights on strategic moves and investments Walmart is taking to be the retailer of choice. They also discuss their experiences of using data analysis and gut instinct in unison to identify opportunities and launch successful product lines at Walmart. Get a taste of their excitement, problem-solving skills, and their secret de-stressing tips. So, buckle up for a unique retail journey with the Dooley's, where you'll learn how they navigate the exciting world of retail merchandising while maintaining a loving household!

What happens when a keen eye for retail meets a passion for inclusivity and the arts? You get Twilla Brooks, a former VP at Walmart and the unstoppable force behind Lynette Create and Innovate and the Bentonville Film Festival. Join us as we journey with Twilla from her humble beginnings at Macy's, through a rewarding career at Walmart, and onto her latest ventures of working with influencers, film, TV, and retail consulting. Along the way, Twilla imparts the key insights and experiences that shaped her path, including brand-building for fashion giants and a retail sales gamble you won't believe! Twilla is a testament to the power of authenticity, transparency, and open communication in business. She tells us how her corporate experience played a crucial role serving others by elevating diverse voices. You'll also learn some tips from Twilla about creating an open environment for your team and staying true to core values. Learn from her unique approach to failure, and how she has helped to turn the festival into a celebration of not just film, but also female and Black-owned businesses. It's not all business with Twilla, as she reveals the sports she loves and her gratitude for the journey that brought her here. Whether you've got your sights set on a corporate career, dreaming of starting your own venture, or simply love a good story, Twilla's tale is a testament to tenacity and vision. Buckle up for a thrilling ride through the world of retail, film, and entrepreneurial spirit!

Get ready to immerse yourself in a compelling conversation with Sean Campbell, CEO of Campbell Creative. We'll dive into Sean's journey from working in retail, his agency background, and work in marketing and public relations. We'll also hear about the motivation behind his start of Campbell Creative and their unique value-based agency model and taking the less trodden path in marketing. We'll learn from Sean's unique insights into the science of shopper marketing, the Storybrand framework, understanding customer motivations, how to create an irresistible offer, and how to help an emerging brand be successful in their initial marketing efforts. A key piece of this podcast will cover the concept of Storybrand, a marketing framework developed by Donald Miller that has been pivotal in Campbell Creative's success and helping their clients. Learn how the power of a well-crafted story can transform your brand and captivate your audience. You'll learn how to serve your hero (the customer) and how to market yourself as a helpful guide. The conversation also delves into the art of creating irresistible offers, generating high-quality content, and the critical role of understanding customer pain points when selling across different channels.We round off our conversation with an intriguing discussion around how some successful brands have fine-tuned their offerings and customer experience to create a winning formula. Don't miss out on these valuable marketing, branding, and storytelling insights and the powerful focus of speaking to the customer when marketing or selling! 

We're offering you a golden ticket into the world of power tools and the role of customer loyalty with our special guest, Jack Ford, Vice President of Consumer Products at HART TTI. Jack, who transitioned from Dallas to Milwaukee and then Bentonville on his professional journey, welcomes you into the intricate workings of one of the biggest power tool companies on the planet. Jack shines a light on how HART TTI has been successful in disrupting their category, overcoming the limitations of COVID, securing customer loyalty,  and building credibility in partnership with Walmart. Venturing further, we delve into HART's innovative strategies that are as powerful as their tools. Focused on the customer, the company never leaves a stone unturned to ensure the customer is at the heart of everything they do. From on-site interactions with tradespeople to their commitment to forward and backward compatible products, every step HART takes is a leap towards excellence. Jack also spills the beans on the company's 'prosumer' market service and their endeavors to maintain a strong presence in homes and job sites alike.In the final part of our journey with Jack, we navigate the evolution of Walmart.com and the challenges of Omni Channel Selling. As Jack reveals, the company has adapted its business model to better support its merchants and customers, investing relentlessly in the power tool category and focusing on communication and collaboration. With a swift response to the shifting retail landscape during the pandemic, Jack gives us a sneak peek into some unique selling strategies. Buckle up for a conversation that guarantees to keep you hooked, as we uncover how HART outpaces its competition and ensures its customers are always met with quality products.

Ready to untangle the complex web of Walmart and Sam's Club Q1 earnings report for 2023? We, your hosts James Harris and Charles Greathouse, pull back the curtain on the retail giant's success strategies, examining factors like comp store sales, inventory management, and market share dynamics. We put the spotlight on Walmart's raised outlook amidst unexpected softness in general merchandise, and dig into the intriguing relationship between higher income shoppers and Walmart's growth trajectory. In addition, we decode how the Luminate platform has been instrumental in breaking down E-Com sales, and emphasize the crucial role of a digital-first mindset in today's retail landscape.As we navigate the recessionary climate, we will shed light on how consumers are stretching the same amount of money to buy less, and how Walmart and Sam's Club are stepping up to this challenge. Get a closer look at Sam's Club's innovative practices, as we discuss the company's efforts to add value to its members through competitive strategies and the exciting landscape of new clubs mushrooming across the country. We'll also discuss diverse selling avenues like scan and go, curbside, and e-commerce which are shaping the future of retail. 

How did a martial arts instructor become a Walmart exec? We had a fascinating chat with Tasha Tandy, a Vice President of food, breakfast, baking, and commercial bread at Walmart. In this episode, Part 2 of our Merchant Mindset Series, we discuss Tasha's journey, her experience in retail during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how data-driven decision making plays a vital role in understanding customer preferences. Trust us, you don't want to miss this rare peek behind the curtain of the retail giant (Walmart)!We explore the ins and outs of collaborating with Walmart, including the benefits of bringing an incomplete product to market and the importance of being willing to pivot when necessary. We'll also delve into the significance of pre-sub data as an indicator of operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Plus, we cover how the challenges of partnering with both large and small brands at Walmart. Finally, we discuss Walmart's digital-first mindset and how they leveraged their data and their brick-and-mortar footprint during the pandemic to offer innovative pickup and delivery options. Learn how to improve the e-commerce shopping experience and the art of merchandising to ensure the customer gets what they need. Don't miss this insightful and informative episode that will change the way you think about retail!

Ever wondered what it takes to excel with your merchant relationship at Walmart? Prepare to gain valuable insights from our special guest, Matt Musgrave, as he shares his unique journey from a category manager to a merchant at Walmart and ultimately to client growth director at High Impact. Join us for an informative conversation on The Retail Journey podcast as we dive into the mindset of a merchant and the importance building strong relationships within retail.In this episode, we explore Matt's experiences in working with various companies and brands, and how they shaped his perspective on the retail world. We discuss the challenges of onboarding a new merchant while highlighting the importance of understanding customer data and making educated and calculated decisions. Matt also shares his valuable advice for working with new merchants, emphasizing the need for transparency, trust, and teamwork.As we wrap up our enlightening conversation with Matt, we touch upon the significance of networking and making authentic connections with people in the retail industry.  So, grab your headphones and join us as we learn from Matt Musgrave's experiences on The Retail Journey podcast. Trust us, you don't want to miss this one!

Join us as we discuss winning at omni-channel with our friend Meritt Brothers, founder of MB Omni Solutions. In this episode, you'll learn the core fundamentals to making sure your brand succeeds across all sales channels. We cover the importance of having a clear omni-strategy, the value of great product content, the role of mobile devices in stores, customer perception online, the positive review algorithm, search engine optimization, differences between Walmart and Sam's Club omni, developing a healthy budget, and so much more! 

Welcome to Episode 2 where James Harris and Charles Greathouse discuss the arrival of the new data platform, Walmart Luminate, and all that it means for those who rely heavily on analytics for their business. 

In this episode, we introduce our podcast listeners to our purpose, discuss the new era of retail, the arrival of Walmart Luminate, and get to know High Impact CEO James Harris and CGO Charles Greathouse. We also hear from our guest host and friend, Leslie Godwin, CEO of Godwin Retail Group.