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We're sending out this Patreon-exclusive episode from back in September to the main feed. Mac and David share their final thoughts about the movies covered in episodes 85 through 96, read from a very dramatic Spider-man 2 script, answer listener questions, and preview some future episodes.
On this episode, Kaylee Felio sits down with industry expert Chuck Hartle to break down the nitty-gritty of parts pricing, inventory sources, and the real value of creative problem-solving at the dealership. From the pitfalls of averaging pricing strategies to why a granular approach to source setup empowers flexibility and innovation, this conversation covers actionable best practices that help parts managers turn inventory faster and unlock growth. Hear real-world stories and insights about bonus structures, collaboration between departments, and the transformative power of dealer communication. If you want to elevate your parts department, this episode is a must-listen!--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit
Are you struggling to balance menu complexity with profitability in your bar? Discover the surprising insights that could transform your business strategy.In this episode of Party of Six, Chris, Dave, and Cliff dive deep into the intricacies of menu design, inventory management, and pricing strategies. Learn how industry leaders use simple menus to maximize margins and minimize waste, and why most bars fail to control inventory effectively.Imagine running a bar where your menu not only delights customers but also boosts your bottom line. With expert tips on seasonal menu adjustments, strategic supplier partnerships, and effective staff training, you can achieve operational excellence and financial success.Tune in now to uncover actionable strategies that will help you streamline your operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and increase your profits. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your bar's performance!Key Topics:- Balancing menu complexity with guest experience- Pricing strategies that drive revenue and profitability- Inventory management techniques to control costs- Showcasing premium spirits effectively- Seasonal menu adjustments and leveraging back stock -Staff training for consistency and customer satisfactionConnect with Us:Chris Schneider – https://barbusinesscoach.com/ Dave Nitzel – https://daveanddave.co/ Cliff Crider – https://truckandtap.com/ Resources & Links:Stinger Compliance – ID verification and bar safety solutions - https://www.stingercompliance.com/Quickspec – Data-driven dashboard for POS and financial analytics - https://www.quixspec.com/Book: Hospitality DNA – Insights on building a resilient hospitality operation - https://www.amazon.com/dp/195984086X/Book: The Bar Shift – Practical strategies for bar management and profitability - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1987562216Book: How to Make Top Shelf Profits in the Bar Business - 75 Lessons on Bar Ownership - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5BMKDJN/
The (Not Boring) Boring Small Business Bookkeeping and Accounting Podcast
Send us a text message! But please include your email or a way to get in touch with you. This feature is not two way! If you sell on eBay or another online marketplace and quietly wonder whether you're recording sales, fees, or inventory the right way, you're not alone, and you may be overcomplicating it. In this episode, our resident Bookkeeping Mensch, Paul Rosenblum, answers a listener question about how online sellers should actually handle bookkeeping, especially when platform reports, fees, and inventory start to blur together at tax time. He breaks down what really needs to be tracked, what doesn't, and how to keep your books clean without turning your side hustle into a full-time accounting project, because spreadsheets should help you sleep better, not keep you up at night.Support the show
Today's episode comes directly from a listener's question, and I love these because they tell me people are thinking about their futures. The listener didn't share a name, just their email address. Anyway, their question was what are the three best jobs in the distribution field? Now, before I answer that, I want to say, and it's the truth, in my opinion anyway, there are no bad jobs in distribution. We've learned that every role matters. Every position contributes to the movement of product, safety, productivity, and ultimately the success of the team and operation. But if you're asking me, and I'm familiar with most all of them, from loading trucks to executive leadership, the three positions that consistently stand out as strong, long-term career roles, my answer is the putaway forklift operator, the order selector, and the front-line lead and supervisor positions. I'll share some thoughts about all three, and then I want to share a bit about something just as important. Three of my go to entry level positions, or my favorite get your foot in the door tasks. Unloaders, loaders, and sanitation, because those are often the doors that open other opportunities in this industry. Ok, we'll start with the putaway forklift operator. This is the person responsible for taking inbound product and placing them into their correct warehouse location, often at height, at quite the pace, and always with safety and accuracy in mind. Put-away operators are trusted with the inventory, operating expensive equipment, they may be working in narrow aisles, with tall vertical storage, and the accuracy of the entire picking operation downstream. If the put-away goes wrong, everything past that step goes wrong. A mis-slotted pallet can cause lost inventory, missed orders, wasted man hours, and indirect time that can never be recovered. That's why experienced put-away operators are respected and valued. This role hones our forklift skills, teaches us system disciplines, and the importance of inventory accuracy, focus and patience. It's also a position that often leads to an Inventory control future, replenishment roles, lead operator positions and a track to Supervisor and front line management. And here's something people don't always realize, put-away operators are usually among the highest paid hourly associates in a facility, especially when experience, certifications, and productivity are factored in. It's not flashy. But it's an important position. And it's absolutely a career role. And If distribution has a heartbeat, the order selector is it. Order selectors are the engine that drives outbound operations. They take the orders, pick the product, build the pallets, and prepare shipments for delivery. This role teaches discipline and accountability in a way few others do. Order selectors live in a world of measured productivity, accuracy expectations, time standards and quality checks. And it's not for everyone, people sometimes look down on order selecting because it's so physically demanding. But in reality, it's one of the best training grounds in distribution. Selectors learn product knowledge, slotting logic, warehouse flow, time management, and personal accountability. They also learn how operations truly work, because when something upstream fails or gets messed up, selectors feel it immediately. The great selectors often become, lead selectors, trainers, safety champions, and Supervisors. I've seen countless leaders start as selectors, and the reason is simple, they understand the operation at ground level. And that experience cannot be taught in a classroom. Now let's talk about leadership. Front-line leads and supervisors are where experience turns into influence. This role is not just about numbers. It's about people. Supervisors are responsible for Safety, Productivity, Attendance, Training, Conflict resolution, Coaching, and Communication. They bridge the gap between Management expectations, and front-line realities. It's one of the most challenging roles in any warehouse, and, I believe, one of the most rewarding. Great supervisors, know the work, respect the team, always lead by example, hold everyone to the same standards, and I hope Coach instead of just correct their teams. This role opens doors to Operations management, Safety leadership, Training and development, Inventory and planning, and Executive leadership. In my humble opinion the best supervisors usually come from the floor. They've unloaded trucks. They've selected orders. They've operated equipment. And because of that, they lead with credibility. Ok, there's a little on three positions in the distribution field that many aspire to master. Now I want to talk about 3 positions that can help get us to them. When I'm asked how to break into warehousing I share some thoughts on the Unloader, Loader, and Sanitation positions. These jobs don't always get the respect they deserve, but they are not dead end jobs. They're great entry points and they are how many careers begin. First up is the Unloader. Unloaders are the first link in the inbound chain. They break down freight, handle every inbound piece, and set the tone for accuracy and safety on the dock. Unloaders learn product handling, teamwork, how to handle a quick pace and the Warehouse layout and inbound systems. I've seen many unloaders move into forklift roles, Receiving, Inventory and Lead positions. The flip side of the unloader is the loader. Loaders are responsible for the final step before product leaves the building. This position carries with it a lot of pressure. They must understand Weight distribution, Load integrity, Accuracy and Timing or dispatching, when the drivers will be leaving. Loaders develop attention to detail, physical discipline, and accountability. Many loaders become Drivers, Dispatchers leads and Supervisors, even Safety leaders. And then we have the sanitation position. Sanitation teams keep facilities Clean, Safe, compliant and audit ready. Without sanitation Slips and falls increase, Equipment breaks down from running over debris and Product quality can suffer. Sanitation can offer us Steady work, Consistent hours, and a foot in the door to our industry. And I've seen sanitation associates move into building maintenance, Equipment operation, Safety roles, and Supervisory tracks. Here's the truth about distribution careers. Very few people start at the top. Most start where opportunities or positions are open. I believe what separates those who grow into other positions from those who stay stuck in one isn't the starting job. It's showing up, being on time, Learning the operation, saying yes to or accepting training, maintaining a positive attitude, and always Following safety and procedures as instructed. I'm going to say it again, this industry rewards consistency. If you prove you can be trusted with Time management, Equipment, Safety, and People, more doors open for us. So, when someone asks me, what are the best jobs in distribution? I struggle with my answer. Yes, put-away forklift operator, order selector, and front-line lead or supervisor are outstanding career roles. But every career usually starts somewhere else. Unloaders. Loaders. Sanitation. Those aren't just jobs. They're starting points. And in distribution, if you're willing to learn, work, and grow, there's no ceiling on where you can go. So honestly, I think the best job in the distribution industry is the one you love doing. Thanks again for the question and thank you for spending a few minutes of your day with me. Always be planning your next step, and remember the safety of you and your team always comes first!
Agile in Construction: The DOWNTIME Strategy—Eliminating Waste Before Adding Process With Felipe Engineer-Manriquez Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes. "My first rule is that I will do no harm. And if something goes wrong, I will take full responsibility with leadership. My neck is literally on the line." - Felipe Engineer-Manriquez Felipe shares his change strategy for introducing Lean and Agile into construction projects, and it starts with an unexpected principle borrowed from Hippocrates: do no harm. He explicitly tells teams this promise, putting his neck on the line to build trust. But the real magic happens in what comes next: instead of adding new processes, Felipe first helps teams stop doing things. Using the DOWNTIME acronym (Defects, Overproduction, Waiting, Transportation, Inventory, Motion, Excess processing), he identifies wasteful activities that don't add value. In construction, 60-80% of every dollar doesn't add value from the customer's perspective—compared to manufacturing (above 50% value) or agriculture (90% value). Felipe's approach: eliminate waste first to create excess capacity, then introduce new processes. On a project that was 2 years behind schedule with lawyers already engaged, he spent just 5 minutes with the team defining a visible milestone goal on a whiteboard. Two weeks later, they met their schedule and improved by 4 days—the first time ever. The superintendent said, "Never in the entire time I've worked here have we ever met a schedule commitment." The secret? Free up capacity before adding anything new. In this episode, we refer to the 8 wastes video by Orbus and WIP limits. Self-reflection Question: Before introducing your next process improvement, what wasteful activity could you help your team stop doing to free up the capacity they need to embrace change? [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]
Send us a message!In this episode, we are joined by Deepak Mehrotra, founder and CEO of California Design Den, for a practical discussion on how linen decisions affect short-term rental operations over time.Drawing from more than 20 years in textile manufacturing, Deepak shares how California Design Den evolved from supplying major retailers to working directly with short-term rental operators. The conversation focuses on how linen choices shift as portfolios grow, and why decisions that seem straightforward early on can become more complex at scale.Rather than treating linens as a one-time purchase, this episode explores them as an operational system that touches guest experience, laundry workflows, replacement cycles, inventory planning, and cost control.Episode Chapters:01:07 – Deepak's background in textile manufacturing and direct-to-consumer bedding04:55 – How and why STR operators became a core customer segment16:45 – Cotton performance and durability in high-turnover environments17:45 – Common reasons linens need replacement in STR operations13:33 – Renting versus owning linens and how operators assess the tradeoffs14:43 – Laundry considerations for in-house and outsourced models25:31 – Inventory availability, fulfillment speed, and consistency at scale31:56 – How linen strategy evolves as portfolios grow28:09 – Operational simplicity when managing linens across multiple propertiesConnect with Deepak:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepak-mehrotra-9752682/ Connect with California Design Den:Website: https://www.californiadesignden.com/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners:Upgrade your guest sleep experience with California Design Den.Get 10% off with code AlexAnnie10OFF.Apply for California Design Den's Linen VIP Club to access preferred pricing and dedicated hospitality support.
The Pentagon said it consolidated policies around protecting American military facilities from drone threats after unclear guidance that left base commanders scrambling on how to respond and years of increased unmanned aerial system sightings over key Defense Department assets. Drone incursions over American military bases jumped considerably over the last several years, alarming officials, and a Pentagon watchdog report released last week said the DOD's confused policies meant some facilities in the U.S. couldn't adequately protect themselves. Following the release of the Defense Department Inspector General report last Tuesday, which noted dire gaps in military counter-UAS policy that limited base responses to drone threats, the Pentagon said it had already adjusted its guidelines last month in an effort to give commanders “expanded authority and flexibility needed to dominate the airspace above their installations.” Countering drones in the U.S. is complex and has been a yearslong, thorny problem for the military, especially as the tech becomes ubiquitous for both hobbyists and adversaries. Stateside drone defense means navigating a delicate balance between protecting military installations while avoiding civilian harm or infrastructure damage. But the issue is only growing, top military officials have said, and the new guidance is the latest attempt by the Pentagon to manage it. The policies, which the release said was signed on Dec. 8 by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, expanded base commanders' defensive area around facilities, explicitly identified any unauthorized drone surveillance over installations as a threat, allowed UAS sensor data sharing between other federal agencies and authorized top service leaders to designate facilities as “covered,” a special classification that allows for drone defense. With tax filing season officially gearing up, the Treasury Department's watchdog is warning the IRS that its workforce reductions and delays to modernization projects have left the tax agency in a precarious position. In a memo sent Monday to the IRS commissioner, Diana M. Tengesdal, deputy inspector general for audit, wrote that the agency's cuts have brought staffing back to October 2021 levels, prior to the Inflation Reduction Act funding infusion aimed at strengthening enforcement on wealthy individuals and corporations and modernizing antiquated IT systems. The loss of personnel has led to a backsliding on previous agency priorities, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration official noted, pointing specifically to a pandemic-created backlog of tax returns awaiting processing. The tax agency had made serious strides in addressing that backlog, TIGTA found in a September 2023 report, but Trump administration staff cuts combined with the recent government shutdown have led to inventory levels that are 129% higher than pre-pandemic figures. “Inventory that is not worked during the current processing year will be carried into the 2026 Filing Season and may affect the IRS's ability to timely process tax returns during the filing season, especially with reduced staff,” Tengesdal wrote. “This could result in delays in taxpayers receiving refunds and could result in the IRS paying interest,” she continued. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this conversation, Dylan Silver interviews Dallas Barkman, a broker specializing in new construction in Indiana and Michigan. They discuss the current trends in new construction, the impact of regulations, and the dynamics of the housing market. Dallas shares insights on the strategies employed by builders, the challenges faced in different counties, and the opportunities for first-time home buyers. The conversation also touches on the rental market, investment trends, and the experience of working across state lines in real estate. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
Q4 2025 was a turning point for Manhattan real estate. On Real Talk Real Estate, John and Jonathan break down why the market tightened faster than expected.Inventory dropped, cash buyers dominated, and homes moved quicker with less room to negotiate. Even with prices staying mostly flat, leverage started shifting back toward sellers. They also touch on how NYC's new mayoral administration may have influenced short-term seller behavior, and why Manhattan real estate continues to prove its long-term strength.
RV PODCAST NEWS EDITIONEpisode 586 - January 26, 2026Hey everybody, welcome to the RV Podcast News Edition. I'm Mike Wendland, and this is where we cut through the press releases, the hype, and the corporate spin to talk about what is really happening in the RV world.Now, quick programming note. If you are listening to this later in the week, we are watching a massive winter snow and ice storm that has affected campgrounds, travel plans, and even caused park closures across large parts of the country. Winter storm Fern has affected a huge swath of the country, 2,300 miles long, from Texas all the way to the East Coast. Ten states have reported more than a foot of snow. Many areas reported in excess of a half inch of ice. In some areas, an inch was reported, bringing down tree limbs across power lines. Well over a million customers have lost electric power and some may be without it for a week or more because of infrastructure damage and terrible road conditions.And as the snow, ice, and sleet slowly move off the eastern coast today, a massive cold front of arctic air is plunging much of the nation to dangerously cold temperatures. In the south, where temps rarely go below freezing, single-digit readings are being reported this morning.Obviously, this has affected many thousands in the RV Community. Fulltimers, even snowbirds who thought they were escaping the worst of winter in the mod south, are struggling to stay warm and keep the water running.The full affect of this storm is still be assessed but from everything we've been able to learn, RVers in the affected areas are reporting frozen water pumps at many campgrounds, propane shortages in the most affected areas and in some cases, no power. We've had reports from dozens of RVers impacted by the snow and overall, most say they are getting by. Most laid in plenty of bottled water, extra food, and made sure they had full tanks of propane and extra fuel for generators. One RVer - John, who lives in his Alliance fifth wheel in Missouri - said his biggest challenge was all the snow and ice piled on top of his slide out. He says the frigid air behind the snow isnt going to allow much melting and he is planning to get a ladder to clear the snow off.In Arkansas, a full-time couple - Sarah and Jim - said they wish they followed their friend's advice to haul their Jayco south towards Florida. “We have gone through two tanks of propane so far and the roads are so bad we can't get out to get them filled.” Her campground still has electricity but she said the lights have flickered and she expects she'll have to switch to generator power as the ice on the power lines is not melting.Perhaps the best assessment came from Ted, a Tennessee fulltimer, who lives in a fifth wheel on his own property along the Tennessee River.. “Most of us know what to do,” he said. “We can handle a week without power. We have a full fresh water tank and I have a 100 gallon propane tank to supplement the tanks in our rig. So we're dressed in heavy clothes and have extra blankets on the bed. This too shall pass.”Let's hope soon.Sop the storm dominates the RV news this week. But coming up, RVers are demanding a real voice with manufacturers, not a hand-picked group of industry insiders, and the response to that idea has been overwhelming.We will look at why campground reservations feel harder than ever to get, even as more parks are built. We will take a closer look at what is really happening in state parks, where long overdue upgrades are coming with some real tradeoffs. We will talk about used RV prices finally settling back toward reality.And we will have a little fun calling out how RV manufacturers keep copying each other's ideas, sometimes so closely it is honestly laughable.Before we get started…. a quick word about the RV Lifestyle Community at RVCommunity.com.If you are tired of ads, algorithms, and social media drama, this is different. It is a private, ad free community built by RVers, for RVers. Real conversations, real advice, real friendships.It is social media the way it SHOULD be.Learn more at RVCommunity.com.STORY 1 — It's Time RVers Had a Real VoiceFor years now, RVers have been talking among themselves about what is wrong with today's RVs.Too many quality issues. Too many poorly designed floorplans. Too many features that look great on a showroom floor but fail miserably in real life.And too often, it feels like no one in the industry is really listening.That thought hit home last week after a listener sent us a message that stopped us cold. He asked a simple but powerful question.Why don't RVers have a direct voice with manufacturers?With massive consolidation among RV manufacturers and dealers, buyers now have fewer real choices than ever before. You walk onto a mega dealer lot and see hundreds of rigs, but when you look closer, many are variations of the same designs, built by the same corporate parents, with the same lingering quality concerns.For many people ready to buy, the problem is not just price.It is confidence.They do not see the RV they actually want. And they are afraid to buy because of what they hear about reliability and workmanship.That is a terrible place for any industry to be.So it raises a bigger question.Who is speaking for real RVers?Right now, manufacturers mostly hear from dealers, sales teams, investors, and marketing departments.What is missing?Us.The people who actually live in these RVs. The ones who discover what works and what fails after thousands of miles of potholes, rainstorms, campground hookups, and real world use.Most feedback today is scattered across Facebook groups, YouTube comments, and forums. Thoughtful insights get buried in noise.That is not a system designed to build better RVs.It is a system designed to build frustration.So here is the idea that sparked a huge response.What if RVers spoke with one clear, organized, constructive voice?Imagine a live, moderated RVer Town Hall. Not a complaint fest. Not a shouting match. A serious conversation where experienced RVers present real world recommendations to manufacturers.Full timers and part timers. Fifth wheels and motorhomes. Retirees, families, weekend travelers.Talking about what actually matters.Build quality. Smarter layouts. Easier maintenance. Durability over decoration. Designs that match how people really camp.If structured properly and promoted well, manufacturers would pay attention. When customers speak thoughtfully and collectively, industries listen.Before we build anything like this, we want to hear from you.If you had five minutes with RV executives and engineers, what would you tell them?Not angry rants.Real ideas.Leave us a voicemail or send us an email at RVPodcast.com. We may feature your ideas on the podcast and use them as the foundation for a future live RVer Town Hall.This is not about tearing down manufacturers.It is about helping them build RVs that truly serve the people who buy them.Because the best RVs will not be created in boardrooms alone.They will be created when real RVers are finally heard.TRAVEL PLANNING WORKSHOP PROMOBefore we move on, a quick reminder.On February 5, I am hosting a live RV Travel Planning Workshop. This is where I walk you through how to plan smarter routes, find better campgrounds, avoid common mistakes, and build trips that actually match how you want to travel.It is practical, hands on, and you will walk away with a plan you can use immediately.Details and registration are available through our site, and I would love to have you join me.STORY 2 — Campgrounds Are Expanding, But Reservations Are Tighter Than EverHere is something RVers keep asking.If more campgrounds are being built, why does it feel harder than ever to get a reservation?On paper, things look good. New private parks are opening. Existing parks are adding sites. States are investing in infrastructure.But in practice, availability feels tighter than ever.RVers are traveling more often and staying longer. More parks are shifting toward monthly and seasonal stays for predictable income. Reservation systems make booking easier, but also more competitive.The result is a paradox.More campgrounds exist. But fewer open dates feel available.For RVers, this means planning earlier, being flexible, and sometimes looking beyond the most obvious destinations.STORY 3 — State Parks Are Upgrading, With Strings AttachedState parks are getting long overdue upgrades.New electrical systems. Rebuilt bathhouses. Extended sites for larger rigs.But these improvements come with tradeoffs.California has seen higher fees and reservation windows that fill in minutes. Florida has fewer first come, first served sites. Michigan's modernization brings 50 amp service and sewer hookups, but also higher nightly rates and tighter booking rules.Better infrastructure. Higher costs. Less spontaneity.State parks are still incredible values, but the old days of pulling in on a whim are fading fast.STORY 4 — Used RV Prices Are Finally Coming Back to EarthUsed RV prices continue to soften.Inventory is up. Buyers are cautious. Dealers are negotiating again.But buyers are selective.Condition matters. Maintenance records matter. Build quality matters.This shift is healthy. Confidence is returning, and patience is finally being rewarded.STORY 5 — Manufacturers Keep Copying Each Other, And It's Getting ObviousNow let's have a little fun, because this is one of those things you cannot unsee once you notice it.RV manufacturers love to talk about innovation.But if you walk a major RV show floor, you quickly realize how much copying is really going on.Case in point, the dinesk, that combination dining area and desk that slides, expands, and adapts depending on how you are using it.It was a standout feature in Brinkley RV models, clever, functional, and genuinely useful for how people live and work on the road.Fast forward to the Tampa RV SuperShow.Suddenly, a new Montana ad is showcasing a remarkably similar setup. And Winnebago rolls out a new towable with a nearly identical movable desk and dining combo.Coincidence? Not likely.And here is the part that makes industry veterans chuckle. Brinkley itself has been told that their dinesk concept resembles a similar idea introduced years ago by another fifth wheel manufacturer.In other words, the copying goes back generations.This is how the RV industry often works. One company takes a risk. Others watch carefully. And once the market responds, suddenly everyone has their own version.Sometimes that is healthy competition.But other times, it leads to stagnation. Instead of improving the idea, manufacturers simply replicate it, sometimes poorly, sometimes without understanding why it worked in the first place.The real opportunity here is not copying.It is listening.RVers know what features actually improve life on the road. They know what gets used every day, and what becomes a gimmick by the third trip.If manufacturers spent more time listening to real RVers and less time copying the rig across the aisle, innovation might actually mean something again.CLOSINGWhen you step back and look at all of this together, a pattern emerges.RVers want better built rigs. They want campgrounds they can actually access. They want state parks that balance upgrades with affordability. And they want to be heard.The RV lifestyle is thriving, but growth brings pressure. How the industry responds now will shape the next decade of RVing.Thanks for listening. We'll be back Wednesday with another Stories from the Road episode.
With host retail coach Wendy Batten https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/ Episode Overview Many shop owners lead with good intentions, but being nice instead of kind can quietly create resentment, burnout, and instability in a retail business. In this episode, I'm exploring a distinction that quietly shapes many retail businesses: the difference between being nice and being kind. While niceness can feel good in the moment, it often leads to avoidance, resentment, and exhaustion over time. Kind leadership, by contrast, is clear, fair, and professional, and it supports long term trust and sustainability. I'll walk you through how this shows up in real retail situations, including team management, pricing decisions, inventory buying, customer boundaries, and personal time and energy. These are everyday moments where shop owners often default to being nice, even when it costs them their boundaries. You'll come away with a clearer understanding of how leading with kindness protects your business, your team, and YOU, and how small shifts in leadership can reduce burnout and resentment. Our Key Topics The difference between being nice and being kind in retail leadership How niceness shows up with staff, feedback, and underperformance Pricing decisions, discounting, and apologizing for prices Inventory buying influenced by customers, reps, or fear of disappointing others Customer boundaries, policies, and professionalism Time, energy, and the cost of always saying yes The Difference Between Nice and Kind in Leadership Being nice often avoids conflict but creates long term resentment and burnout. Kind leadership is clear, consistent, and professional, even when conversations are hard. Proper pricing and margins are an act of kindness to your business and its future. Boundaries with staff and customers create fairness and predictability. Saying 'no' in the right moments protects your energy and your role as leader. "Kind leadership will not ask you to sacrifice yourself." -Wendy Batten Your next step? Notice one place this week where being kind, not just nice, could change how you lead and how your business feels. Available Resources: Back-of-the-Napkin Profit Calculator (Profit Planning Masterclass) A simple, approachable way to understand your core retail numbers without overwhelm or complicated spreadsheets. Retail Sales & Marketing Accelerator (On-Demand)A practical course designed to help shop owners stop guessing and start making clearer, data-informed decisions around sales and marketing. Join my Love List! Episode 155: Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Rest: The Key to Sustainable Growth Episode 185: Avoid Burnout with Guest Expert Dr. Ashley Margeson About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven't met…I'm Wendy Batten. I've been a small business owner, coach, and mentor for over 25 years. I help thoughtful, established entrepreneurs step into their role as CEO and build businesses that are profitable, meaningful, and supportive of the lives they want to live. My work blends real-world strategy with a life-first philosophy, shaped by lived experience, not theory. I've been there! Through honest conversations and practical insight, I invite you into bigger thinking about leadership, possibility, and how to build both business and life on purpose. For more support from Wendy Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG All of Wendy's current programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer.Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!
In this episode of Excess Returns, Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather joins Matt Zeigler to unpack what she calls the Great Housing Reset. Rather than a housing crash or correction, Fairweather argues the market is entering a multi year transition toward something more normal, where incomes gradually catch up to home prices and affordability improves at the margin. The conversation covers mortgage rates, supply constraints, regional housing dynamics, climate risk, policy tradeoffs, and how AI is reshaping real estate decisions for buyers, renters, and investors.Topics covered in this episode• Why the current housing market is a reset, not a crash or correction• How income growth outpacing home price growth could slowly improve affordability• Mortgage rate dynamics and why rates may stay near the low 6 percent range• The mortgage rate lock in effect and why inventory may take years to normalize• Regional housing trends including the Midwest, Northeast, Sunbelt, and tech hubs• The role of wages, rents, and affordability for Gen Z and first time homebuyers• Investor activity, rental markets, and the outlook for housing as an investment• Immigration, foreign buyers, and local market distortions• Multi generational living, ADUs, and creative housing solutions• Housing policy ideas that actually address supply constraints• Why demand side policies like 50 year mortgages miss the real problem• Climate risk, insurance costs, and total cost of home ownership• How AI and conversational search are changing the home buying process• The future of MLS consolidation and real estate market structure• Practical guidance for renters, buyers, and homeowners looking ahead to 2026Timestamps00:00 Introduction and the Great Housing Reset02:00 What a housing reset really means03:30 Income growth versus home price growth05:20 Mortgage rates and the outlook for borrowing costs08:40 Fed policy, bond markets, and mortgage rates10:40 Inventory shortages and the lock in effect12:30 Regional housing market winners and losers16:00 Affordability challenges for younger buyers19:00 Rental markets and investor dynamics21:20 Multi generational living and ADUs25:00 Housing policy and supply constraints29:30 Why 50 year mortgages do not solve affordability33:00 Geographic housing outlook by life stage39:30 Climate risk, insurance, and housing costs47:00 Energy efficiency and dense housing50:20 AI, real estate search, and market structure54:30 What to watch in the housing market through 202659:30 Book discussion and where to follow Daryl Fairweather
What Signals Say 2026 Could Outperform a Strong 2025 for Retail Real Estate?2026 might be the year retail real estate finally turns momentum into pricing power. Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono open with a confident call: next year will outperform an already-strong 2025, and the data is starting to line up behind it.Holiday sales climbed roughly 4 percent year-over-year, outpacing inflation and reinforcing a simple truth: consumers keep spending, even when sentiment wobbles. The conversation breaks down the “K-shaped” economy, where higher-income shoppers drive discretionary growth while value-focused and necessity-based retail remains resilient across every income bracket.The hosts point to sharper inventory discipline and steadier supply chains as quiet margin drivers, giving retailers more control over pricing and fewer forced discounts. On the real estate side, fewer major bankruptcies and limited space givebacks are tightening supply, setting the stage for a more landlord-driven market. The result: upward pressure on rents, stronger net operating income, and potential value gains as interest rates ease.They also look ahead to demand catalysts, from global sporting events and America's 250th anniversary to a new wave of store openings coming out of late-2025 leasing. While risks remain, from AI-driven job shifts to geopolitical uncertainty, the core bet is clear: tighter supply, resilient consumers, and disciplined operators could make 2026 a defining year for retail real estate.What You'll HearThe data points behind the call that 2026 tops a strong 2025Why consumer spending keeps winning over sentimentHow the K-shaped economy is reshaping value, necessity, and discretionary retailTighter supply, fewer bankruptcies, and what that means for landlord leverageInventory discipline and supply chains as quiet drivers of pricing powerNOI, rents, and value: how the real estate math is shiftingTraffic catalysts ahead, from global events to a new wave of store openingsThe key risks still in play, from AI disruption to geopolitical shocksChapters00:00 — The Bold Call for 2026Chris and Karly open with a confident prediction that 2026 will outperform a strong 2025 for retail real estate and explain why they're leading with the conclusion.01:20 — Holiday Sales vs. Consumer SentimentA breakdown of holiday spending growth and why real consumer behavior matters more than surveys and headlines.03:55 — The K-Shaped Economy in RetailHow higher-income and value-focused consumers are shaping different lanes of retail performance across categories.05:55 — Inventory, Pricing, and Margin ControlWhy better inventory discipline and steadier supply chains are giving retailers more leverage on pricing.08:20 — Tariffs, Supply Chains, and StabilityWhat's changed since early 2025 and why supply volatility feels less like a headline risk for 2026.09:45 — Bankruptcies, Space, and Expansion PressureHow fewer large retail failures are tightening available space and reshaping store rollout strategies.12:10 — The Landlord's Market and Rent...
This week on Laricy Live, Matt Laricy breaks down the Q4 2025 real estate market data and what it reveals about where the housing market is headed. He analyzes key metrics including closings, months of inventory, days on market, and sales prices, and explains how this data is shaping buyer and seller behavior. From pricing strategy and timing to negotiation tactics, this episode shows how to turn year-end numbers into a smarter game plan and gain an advantage heading into 2026. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or real estate professional, you'll get clear insights and honest analysis—Laricy style.
In this episode, Ryan Jenkins and Robert Crow discuss what's happening in the Northern Colorado housing market as we head into spring 2026. From interest rates and inventory trends to inspections, insurance, HOAs, and long-term buyer strategy, this episode covers what buyers and sellers really need to know right now.Plus, a few Fort Collins food and coffee recommendations along the way.00:00 Winter arrives in Fort Collins02:10 Is the Northern Colorado market picking up?03:55 Interest rates drop & buyer activity returns06:20 Inventory growth explained (why housing moves slowly)08:40 Why buyers should start earlier than spring10:55 Fort Collins vs Boulder affordability reality12:05 Price corrections vs a “flat” market14:10 Long-term appreciation in Northern Colorado16:10 Why major housing crashes are unlikely18:15 Water, development & supply constraints21:05 Real examples: homes losing (or holding) value23:40 Best burgers in Fort Collins27:10 Coffee shops & Old Town restaurant talk30:25 Roofs, hail damage & insurance problems33:15 Class 3 vs Class 4 roofs explained35:05 Permits, basements & unpermitted work risks37:45 ADUs, canyon homes & county enforcement40:20 Inspections: what general inspections miss42:55 Sewer scopes, radon & specialty inspections45:30 HOA risks, reserves & special assessments48:15 How to read HOA documents efficiently50:45 Talking to neighbors before buying53:10 Listing homes on holiday weekends55:45 Pricing pressure on sellers & agents58:30 71% of agents did zero deals — why it matters01:01:45 Overpricing homes & buyer psychology01:04:50 Long-term ownership vs short-term fear01:07:40 Glade Reservoir overview01:10:30 Hwy 287 reroute & property impact01:13:15 Future growth, controversy & buyer awareness01:16:00 Final thoughts & wrap-up
The housing market has a profound effect on nearly every family, the economy, and the markets. In this special episode, Natalie Picha, CXO, is joined by Steel Door Group, Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty's Brittany Waterman and Ashley Graves to break down Texas's real estate market: what really shapes affordability, why pricing may normalize into 2026, and the areas where buyers hold leverage. Natalie, Brittany, and Ashley discuss:• How the Texas market differs from other markets nationally• Inventory psychology and how it differs for various areas• Buyer behavior: later first purchases, family gifts, and mobilityIf you enjoy our podcast, please take a moment to subscribe. We would love it if you would leave us a rating and a review, as it's the best way for us to reach other listeners. We'd also love it if you could share the podcast with your friends and family. You can find us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram for additional content, or reach out through our website at royalharborpartners.com.Experience the difference of working with a firm that empowers your life—a firm that focuses on what matters most—you. Whether you are beginning your financial journey now or have already taken steps toward your ultimate life goals, we are here to guide you. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rhp-market-talk/id1538051530
Feeling overwhelmed as the new year begins? Before you add new goals, habits, or routines, this episode invites you to pause and take a life inventory—so you can move into the year with clarity instead of chaos. In this episode of The WELL Podcast, we walk through a simple but powerful inventory to help you identify what's truly serving you—and what's draining you in your everyday life. We explore: The products you're buying and using—and whether they support your health The foods that fuel your energy vs. contribute to bloating, fatigue, or inflammation The activities and commitments taking up your time and emotional space Your calendar and productivity rhythms—busy vs. purposeful Family and kids' schedules—what's life-giving vs. overwhelming This episode is not about doing more or fixing yourself. It's about awareness, alignment, and peace—so you can make intentional changes that actually last. If you're a woman or mom craving simplicity, clarity, and a calmer approach to wellness and life, this episode will help you reset with confidence and compassion. ✨ Grab a notebook, take a deep breath, and start the year grounded—not rushed. THEN POST YOUR INVENTORY IN OUR FACEBOOK COMMUNITY! Welcome to The Well Community! VISIT www.THEWELLTEAM.COM for all coaching, digital courses, blogs and essential oil education tips! Follow Kari on Insta Join me in the FASTER WAY TO FAT LOSS Create Your Custom Essential Oil Kit Get my favorite non toxic starter kit here Email hello@thewellteam.com Schedule a free 30 minute consult for potential coaching with Kari here Join our FACEBOOK COMMUNITY for more support and encouragement to refill daily with faith, self care, health, wellness and essential oil education!
Have you ever scrolled through social media and felt like everyone is passing you by? Whether it's a milestone in your personal life or a goal in your business, that nagging feeling of being "behind" can be paralyzing. In this episode, I'm getting real about the "C-word"—comparison—and how it acts as a thief of your joy and a blocker to the miracles God is orchestrating in your current season. I'm sharing my own journey of turning 36 and how I've learned to embrace the "darkroom" where God develops our best work before it ever hits the spotlight. I want to help you shift your perspective from what you lack to what is already in your hand. We'll talk about why your "5 loaves and 2 fish" are more than enough to create momentum right now, even if you don't have a massive team or a huge budget. Whether you are in a "wilderness" season like Moses or just feeling stuck in a cycle of inaction, this episode is your reminder that God is an on-time God who cares just as much about your internal transformation as He does about your destination. What You'll Discover in This Episode: The "Step 15" Illusion: Why you might be unfairly sabotaging your progress by comparing your beginning to someone else's middle, and the specific cycle of inaction this creates. The Secret of the Darkroom: Why feeling "hidden" or slow is often a sign of divine preparation, and the dangerous consequences of being exposed to the spotlight prematurely. Inventory of the Miraculous: How to identify the "5 loaves and 2 fish" you currently possess—and why ignoring these small resources is the very thing keeping your next level out of reach. Decoding the "Burning Bush" in Your Everyday: How to recognize the specific patterns God uses to speak to you in the mundane moments, like the school pickup line or your favorite podcast. Grab your early bird tickets here for the Firebrand Story Room happening on May 1st and 2nd, and don't forget to download your free 3-step Brand Clarity resource to help you get clear on your messaging for 2026! Get that youthful glow with Graceful Glow Co. facial cups, designed to naturally boost collagen and enhance your self-care routine. Use code MELISSAHUGHES10 for 10% off your order! Website: www.melissaleahughes.com Social Channels: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissaleahughes Melissa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissaleahughes/ Rise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risesocialmediaagency/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissa.harrington.758 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissaleahughes
“If you want things to be different, you have to do things differently.”Today we continue taking a Spiritual Inventory so we can see what or where we want to do things differently, so we can journey deeper into Jesus' Kingdom.
Simply Convivial: Organization & Mindset for Home & Homeschool
If minimalism keeps tempting you — or decluttering feels overwhelming — this episode will change how you see your home. Your house is not a pile of clutter. It is a collection of inventories that serve real people. If clutter overwhelms you, I invite you to my free workshop: Decluttering Made Simple: 3 Surprising Ways to Get Organized WITHOUT Tossing Everything - simplyconvivial.com/declutterIn this episode of my decluttering series, I explain: Why every functioning home has inventories Why all inventories require ongoing management Why decluttering is not about emotions or aesthetics Why minimalism often feeds perfectionism How to manage books, clothes, food, and tools without guiltHomemaking is not about achieving a final “done” state. It is the ongoing work of stewarding resources so your home can serve your family with competence and hospitality.This is not about having less stuff.It is about managing what you have well.This video is part of my decluttering series for Christian homemakers who want a peaceful, functional home without chasing minimalist ideals.Christian homemaking takes deliberate practice, not perfect systems. Every week on Simply Convivial, I share practical mindset shifts and small, steady habits that help you build a home anchored in truth and run with cheerful consistency. If you want less overwhelm, stronger routines, and a more faithful way to manage your day, you're in the right place. Grab a basket of laundry, press play, and let's grow in cheerful productivity together.
In this episode of Confessions of Supply Chain Executives, host Chris Walton sits down with Kim Baudry, Market Development Director at Dematic, to unpack why 2025 wasn't a year of transformation for retail. It was a year of survival. Despite continued investment in automation and analytics, many retailers are more cautious than ever. Inventory levels are rising. Capital spending is slowing. And behind the scenes, fear, not strategy, is driving decisions. Kim calls 2025 a “vanilla” year. Stable on the surface, but defined by hesitation, uncertainty, and defensive plays. This episode breaks down where retail supply chains are stalling, why flexibility has replaced scale as the priority, and how labor inefficiencies and planning blind spots are quietly draining performance across warehouses and distribution networks. Key Topics covered: • Why 2025 became a “vanilla” year for retail investment • How fear and geopolitical uncertainty are driving excess inventory • Why just in time has quietly become just in case • The hidden cost of warehouse labor tied up in spreadsheets and planning • Why big bang automation is stalling and what is getting funded • The rise of flexible, brownfield friendly automation strategies • Robots as a Service and SaaS as lower risk entry points • Why AI and agentic decisioning may impact warehouses faster than any other function • What retailers must do to move from survival mode to strategic progress
The Denver December 2025 market update reveals a shifting landscape for real estate investors. Inventory ended the year at 7,600 active units – up 10% from December 2024 but down sharply from November’s 10,500 units as sellers pulled listings heading into the holidays. The bigger story? Attached properties (condos and townhomes) surged 20% year-over-year while detached homes stayed relatively flat, signaling where market pressure is building. Then the new year arrived and everything accelerated. Chris Lopez hosts Troy Howell from Nova Home Loans and Jeff White from Envision Advisors to cover Denver’s December 2025 market update. The panel covers Denver metro year-end trends, interest rate movements, and what just happened in the first week of the new year. Over 20 small multifamily properties hit the market in just the first 8 days of January – an unusual flood of inventory during the worst season to sell. Troy reveals interest rates dropped nearly a full percentage point year-over-year (from 7.04% in January 2025 to 6.16% in January 2026) with predictions for continued decline, while data shows 6%+ mortgages now outnumber sub-3% loans nationwide, signaling the lock-in effect may finally be breaking. The panel digs into what December’s inventory patterns mean for 2026 buying opportunities, examining why motivated sellers are listing in winter and how this creates negotiation leverage. Jeff conducts live underwriting of a $750K 4-plex near South Broadway that dropped $139K in price, walking through actual spreadsheet analysis comparing house hacking (5% down, 9.39% cash-on-cash return) versus traditional investing (25% down, 5.75% return). Both strategies dramatically outperform the 1-2% market average most investors are seeing, proving cash flow still exists in Denver’s current market conditions. Watch the Youtube Video https://youtu.be/zKNDot-SdjE In This Episode We Cover: December 2025 inventory recap: 7,600 units (up 10% YoY from Dec 2024), why attached properties jumped 20% while detached stayed flat Why 20+ small multifamily listings flooded Denver in January 2026’s first 8 days during the worst selling season Interest rate trends: Down from 7.04% (Jan 2025) to 6.16% (Jan 2026), with VA loans reaching low 5% range How the lock-in effect is ending as 6%+ mortgages now exceed sub-3% mortgages nationwide Live underwriting showing $750K 4-plex delivering 9.39% returns for house hackers vs 5.75% for investors Colorado Springs new construction duplex deal with 100% VA financing and 12-month occupancy flexibility Why properties are selling at 2018-2019 price levels and what this means for long-term investors December’s data confirms inventory is building but hasn’t reached problematic levels – we’re still well below the 15,000-30,000 units seen during the 2008-2012 period. The seasonality cliff from 14,000 summer units down to 7,600 by year-end is normal, but what’s not normal is the January 2026 surge of motivated sellers listing during peak winter. Troy explains how current rates make deals pencil again after years of struggle, while Jeff’s spreadsheet analysis proves the math works for both house hackers and traditional investors. Subscribe to our reactivated deal alert emails and join our February 2026 webinar for deeper small multifamily analysis as we track how this inventory surge plays out through the year. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & New Year Market Update Introduction 01:43 – December Inventory Analysis: 7,600 Active Units Up 10% Year Over Year 04:15 – Why Attached Properties Jumped 20% While Detached Stayed Flat 07:15 – The January Flood: 20+ Small Multifamily Listings in 8 Days 12:47– Live Deal Analysis: $750K 4-Plex Near South Broadway (Dropped $139K) 16:23 – House Hacking Numbers: Live in Your Unit for $1,338/Month 19:20 – Investor Analysis: 5.75% Cash-on-Cash vs 1-2% Market Average 25:28 – New Construction Duplex Deal: 100% VA Financing in Colorado Springs 27:19 – VA Loan Occupancy Rule: 12 Months vs 60 Days for Conventional 33:12 – Interest Rate Update: 6.16% Down from 7.04% One Year Ago 35:06– Mortgage Lock-In Effect Ending: 6%+ Loans Now Exceed Sub-3% Mortgages 36:38 – Trump Proposes Ban on Institutional Single-Family Home Buyers Connect with our Guests: Jeff White: jeff@envisionrea.com Troy Howell: troy.howell@novahomeloans.com LinkedIn: Troy Howell Website: https://www.novahomeloans.com/loan-officer/troy-howell/ Links in Podcast For the First Time in Years, More Homeowners Have a 6% Mortgage Rate than a 3% One Subscribe to our Reactivated Deal Alert Emails Download the Free House Hacking Spreadsheet Who is Keyrenter? Keyrenter Property Management Denver provides rental solutions for homeowners and real estate investors in the metro area who are interested in transforming their properties into passive income. It offers various services, from property marketing and thorough applicant screening to tenant placement and 24/7 maintenance services. Keyrenter Denver's team of experts can take the clients’ burden of managing their rental off their hands so they can get back to what matters to them. Who is Nova Home Loans? For over 40 years, we've been focused on helping homeowners find the perfect loan to fit their financial needs and personal goals. Working with NOVA is a personalized experience from initial application to final loan closing and beyond. We will be with you every step of the way toward successful homeownership. Start working with NOVA & Troy Howell today! NOVA FINANCIAL & INVESTMENT CORPORATION, DBA NOVA HOME LOANS NMLS 3087/ EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY/8055 EAST TUFTS AVENUE, SUITE 101/DENVER, CO
The Downward Spiral of Addiction with Ashleigh Ethridge | The Hopeaholics PodcastIn this powerful and deeply vulnerable episode of the Hopeaholics Podcast, Ashleigh Ethridge shares her full story of addiction, recovery, and spiritual awakening, offering an unfiltered look at how alcoholism can quietly take over a life that once appeared stable and successful. She walks through her early years, the influence of the LA nightlife and service industry, and how drinking slowly evolved from social fun into daily survival, leading to blackout episodes, escalating drug use, and a complete loss of control. Ashleigh recounts terrifying experiences with withdrawal seizures, alcohol-induced psychosis, and the physical deterioration that came with drinking around the clock, including moments where she knew she was dying yet still resisted help. She opens up about the role of shame, denial, and toxic relationships in keeping her trapped, as well as the emotional toll addiction took on her family—especially the moment she called her mother from the floor of her apartment, unable to save herself. The episode also explores her journey into treatment, the fear of starting over in her thirties, and the difficult but necessary inner work that followed, including therapy, rebuilding her faith, and confronting the deeper wounds beneath the drinking. Through honesty, humility, and reflection, Ashleigh shares how recovery restored her sense of purpose, healed fractured relationships, and gave her a life she never thought possible, making this episode a raw, hopeful testament to what can happen when someone finally surrenders and chooses to live.#thehopeaholics #redemption #recovery #AlcoholAddiction #AddictionRecovery #wedorecover #SobrietyJourney #MyStory #Hope #wedorecover #treatmentcenter #natalieevamarieJoin our patreon to get access to an EXTRA EPISODE every week of ‘Off the Record', exclusive content, a thriving recovery community, and opportunities to be featured on the podcast. https://patreon.com/TheHopeaholics Go to www.Wolfpak.com today and support our sponsors. Don't forget to use code: HOPEAHOLICSPODCAST for 10% off!Follow the Hopeaholics on our Socials:https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics https://linktr.ee/thehopeaholicsBuy Merch: https://thehopeaholics.myshopify.comVisit our Treatment Centers: https://www.hopebythesea.comIf you or a loved one needs help, please call or text 949-615-8588. We have the resources to treat mental health and addiction. Sponsored by the Infiniti Group LLC:https://www.infinitigroupllc.com Timestamps:00:03:42 - First Time Drinking and the Anxiety That Followed00:05:38 - Parents' Divorce and the Beginning of the Spiral00:08:33 - Falling in Love With the LA Party Scene00:10:06 - First Time Cocaine and Molly in the Hollywood Hills00:11:03 - Life Becomes One Long Party Cycle00:12:25 - Reporting Her Own Car Stolen While Blacked Out00:15:14 - Realizing the Car Was Never Stolen00:19:42 - Selling Everything to Move to Mexico00:22:18 - Drinking Half the Inventory as a Manager00:25:14 - Looking in the Mirror and Not Recognizing Herself00:26:01 - Living Next to the Cecil Hotel00:27:21 - Drinking Just to Function and Get to Work00:28:45 - Two Bottles of Liquor a Night00:31:18 - First Withdrawal Seizure Behind the Bar00:33:23 - Second Seizure and Waking Up on the Floor00:35:21 - DTs and Seeing Demons in Her Apartment00:37:46 - Finding Peace Sitting Outside a Church00:38:34 - Thirty Days Sober and Deciding to Drink Again00:39:04 - Final Seizure and Calling Her Mom for Help00:40:30 - Realizing She Never Wants to Feel This Way Again00:40:54 - Entering Treatment on Medi-Cal00:42:51 - Choosing to Stay for 60 Days00:43:10 - Feeling Her Grandparents' Pre
Join Dylan De Bruin alongside Chris Chiaramonte, Ethan Hokel, and Jason Mickelson as they explore where the real estate market has been, where it appears to be heading, and what a more “normalized” market could look like in the year ahead. The group debates projections for existing and new home sales, discusses the role of interest rates and potential government intervention, and breaks down how shifting market conditions are impacting buyer and seller behavior. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:28 Catching Up: Recent Events and Milestones 01:53 Market Sentiments and Buyer Activity 04:11 Debate: Should Interest Rates Come Down? 06:02 Impact of Interest Rates on Affordability 13:44 News and Legislative Updates 17:58 Inventory and New Construction Trends 26:21 Analyzing Recent Home Price Trends 27:06 Projections for Home Price Appreciation 28:03 Debating the Impact of Interest Rates on Home Prices 29:13 Affordability and Wage Growth 30:53 Challenges for First-Time Home Buyers 31:27 Future Home Sales Projections 39:04 Reflecting on Market Conditions and Strategies 49:14 The Importance of Agent Skills in a Changing Market 50:51 Closing Thoughts and Future Predictions Subscribe to the More Than More Podcast for new weekly episodes as we discuss building meaningful and impactful businesses, careers, and lives through real estate. Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube
A commentary and discussion on the Just for Today: Daily Meditations for Recovering Addicts. Contact Information: 919-675-1058 or facebook.com/groups/theanonpodcastParticipation Form: https://forms.gle/QhcK3JRrmzQzr8ZFA
Unlock real insights into the San Luis Obispo (SLO) County real estate market with Hal Sweasey and John Turner—plus a rare on-mic appearance from our producer. We tackle the big questions buyers and sellers ask every week: Is now a good time to buy or sell in SLO County? How accurate are online home-value estimates? What's the deal with buyer-broker agreements? And where does AI actually help—or hurt—in real estate? Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, move-up seller, or investor, this episode delivers practical, local guidance you can use today. In this episode: Jeff's role at KZOZ and how this episode came together Where AI helps in real estate (and where it can mislead) Is now a good time to buy in SLO County? Inventory, days on market, and what a ~2.5-month supply really means Rates, “timing the market” vs. time in the market Is now a good time to sell? Trading in the same market and pricing realities Home values: online estimates vs. professional CMA (and what banks actually trust) How pros really price property (calls, pendings, and context) Buyer-broker agreements: what they are, why you're asked to sign, and your options Key takeaways Buy vs. wait: If you're financially prepared and plan to stay, owning is a strong long-term play—focus on affordability and horizon, not perfect timing. Seller reality: Values can flatten or slip short-term; you're often trading in the same market when you buy your next place. Inventory ≠ average: Even when listings rise, SLO County remains supply-constrained versus historical norms. Valuation: Online tools are a starting point; an on-the-ground CMA (comps + context) is far more reliable. Buyer-broker agreements: Expect to sign one when asking for showings; scope can be property-specific or time-bound—know what you're signing. Meet the speaker Hal Sweasey – Veteran SLO County Realtor sharing 35+ years of pricing and negotiation experience. John Turner – Co-host and local market strategist. Jeff Kingman – KZOZ morning host, producer, and now… reluctant on-camera guest.
To meet customer demand, organizations take inventory, then replenish and upgrade their offerings. As a presenter, it's wise to take inventory of your speech…and everything that surrounds it. Today, Mark and Darren focus on your Speech Skills Inventory and offer suggestions for upgrading your speech over the next 12 months SNIPPETS: • Upgrade your speech • Decide how you want to improve each facet of your speech in 12 months • Your speech title is your unique identifier • Craft an unforgettable Foundational Phrase • Tell better stories, and tell stories better • Transform case studies into case stories • Improve laugh lines • Rewrite your introduction • Consider a video introduction • Work on your open and close • Use Toastmasters as a practice ground • Let audiences give you their perspective Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
Most electricians think they have a pricing problem… but what if it's actually a confidence problem? In this powerful episode, Joseph and Clay break down the numbers that finally make profit real and show you how to build pricing that earns you what you're worth without overthinking it or needing to rely on your accountant to run your business. You'll discover: Why the average $120/hr rate is keeping you broke (and what you should actually charge)The real reason your accountant can't save your bottom lineHow to finally get confident in your pricing (and sell with clarity)The 3 invisible factors that kill your gross profit — and how to fix themWhy hyper-local marketing is the future of high-profit electrical business...Plus, the genius $0 marketing play that sold Joseph on the spot — and how you can apply it this week. If you're serious about making 2026 your most profitable year yet — this one's for you.
Don't you agree that from time to time we would be well-served to take a look at where we are going in life? Perhaps a personal “inventory” of sorts? Today we do just that, but we take a spiritual inventory, to see where we are and are not living the A+ Life to the Full Jesus wants for us.
What if "not for sale" didn't mean "not interested"? In this episode, James and Keith sit down with Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted, a startup turning heads and headlines by unlocking the hidden inventory between "just browsing" and "for sale." Katie's background in direct mail, digital marketing, and startup advising uniquely positioned her to spot a massive opportunity in the market: homeowners who might sell, just not yet. Unlisted isn't trying to replace real estate agents; it's giving them a new front door into consumer conversations before they're ready to list. In this episode: How a pool, a pandemic, and a bold question inspired a whole new real estate model What makes the "gray zone" of real estate so valuable (and overlooked) Why the future of selling your home could start with a waitlist How to use direct mail right in 2025 Why agents should get excited (not threatened) by this new lead source Plus: real talk on startup life, rejection as fuel, and why planning is often just fear wearing a tie. Links mentioned during the episode: https://unlistedhomes.com/agents Connect with Katie on LinkedIn. Learn more about Unlisted on - LinkedIn - Facebook - Instagram and online unlistedhomes.com. Subscribe to Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered?sub_confirmation=1 To learn more about becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email: jessica@inman.com You asked for it. We delivered. Check out our new merch! https://merch.realestateinsidersunfiltered.com/ Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube, Facebook - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/realestateinsiderspod/ Link to YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to TikTok Page: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestateinsiderspod Link to website: https://realestateinsidersunfiltered.com This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative. https://twobrotherscreative.com/contact/
For over a decade, Law Abiding Biker has been built by riders, for riders. What started as a passion for American V-Twin motorcycles has grown into one of the largest Harley-Davidson and Indian motorcycle media platforms in the world—while staying true to our core mission: bikers helping bikers. As we continue to grow at a rapid pace, we're opening a rare opportunity for the right person to step into our team as an Assistant Store Manager, with a clear path to becoming Store Manager. This isn't a typical retail job—it's a leadership role inside a rider-run, bootstrap company that lives and breathes the motorcycle lifestyle. If you're passionate about motorcycles, love helping fellow riders, and want more than "just a job," keep reading. Assistant Store Manager (Growth Track to Store Manager) Position Overview Company: Law Abiding Biker™ Media & Law Abiding Biker™ Store Location: Yakima, Washington (on-site, daily presence required)f Position Type: Full-time, salaried Growth Path: Promotion to Store Manager after ~12 months based on performance Compensation: Very competitive salary + performance bonuses (increase upon promotion) Who We Are Law Abiding Biker™ Media and the Law Abiding Biker™ Store are built by bikers—for bikers. We are one of the largest American V-Twin Harley-Davidson / Indian motorcycle media brands in the world, with a massive YouTube audience, the #1 listened to motorcycle podcast globally, and a rapidly scaling international e-commerce store shipping motorcycle parts worldwide. We are not a corporate giant. We are a bootstrap company of riders helping riders. We don't just sell parts—we: Test them Install them Ride with them Review them Film them Teach bikers how to install them themselves Customer service, integrity, and real-world riding matter here. The Role: Assistant Store Manager This role is designed for a highly driven, motorcycle-obsessed leader who wants to grow into a full Store Manager position within approximately one year. You will be trained, supported, and trusted—but you must be self-motivated, fast-learning, confident, and comfortable wearing many hats in a fast-scaling business. This is not a slow-paced or retirement role. This is one of the most exciting jobs in the motorcycle industry—for the right person. Core Responsibilities Store & Operations Leadership Assist in overseeing daily store operations Inventory oversight, fulfillment workflows, and shipping operations Maintain organization, efficiency, and accountability across the store Help manage and lead employees (shipping, inventory, support roles) Grow into full responsibility for store operations over time Customer Service & Communication Respond to customer emails and inquiries with professionalism and empathy Assist walk-in customers at the Yakima location Maintain high emotional intelligence—we value our customers deeply Resolve issues calmly, fairly, and efficiently Motorcycle Product Knowledge Learn, understand, and confidently explain motorcycle parts we sell Answer fitment, benefit, and usage questions for Harley-Davidson & Indian motorcycles Leverage personal riding and wrenching experience to help customers Continuously learn new products and systems Media & Brand Participation Appear on camera for YouTube content when needed Participate in live and recorded podcast episodes Speak clearly, confidently, and professionally on video and audio Represent the Law Abiding Biker brand publicly and authentically Software & Systems Daily use of Shopify (POS + online store backend) Comfortable working entirely in the Apple / Mac ecosystem Use and learn various software platforms (inventory, logistics, communication) Embrace AI tools (ChatGPT, workflow AI, etc.) as part of operations Heavy daily computer usage is required Industry & Growth Opportunities Communicate with vendors, distributors, and partners Attend industry events, distributor shows, or brand meetings (occasionally) Possible travel for projects, shoots, or events Participate in scaling systems and improving workflows Required Qualifications (Non-Negotiable) Lives in or near Yakima, Washington (daily on-site presence required) Owns and actively rides an American-made V-Twin motorcycle (Harley-Davidson or Indian) Deep passion for the motorcycle lifestyle and community Strong computer and smartphone skills and comfort in the Apple ecosystem Ability to lift and move heavy boxes and equipment Comfortable on camera and speaking into microphones Willingness to work weekends and some extended hours Highly self-motivated, adaptable, and accountable Strongly Preferred (Huge Advantages) Experience wrenching on your own Harley-Davidson or Indian motorcycle Prior experience with Shopify E-commerce, retail, or operations leadership experience Familiarity with AI tools and modern workflows Experience managing employees or teams Strong written and verbal communication skills Work Environment & Culture Fast-paced, high-energy, growth-oriented Hard work—but a lot of fun Bikers, riders, and real humans—not corporate robots Family-oriented and flexible when life happens Everyone wears multiple hats We fix problems—we don't ignore them If you love motorcycles, people, and building something meaningful, this is one of the best jobs you'll ever have. Compensation & Growth Competitive salaried position Performance-based bonuses Defined path to Store Manager within ~12 months Salary increase upon promotion Long-term growth potential in a rapidly expanding brand How to Apply (Important) We don't do things the traditional way, so here's what you need to do if you're interested. To apply, you must submit a 5-minute video (no longer—we will not review longer videos). Video Requirements: Create a video in any style you want. Feel free to be creative or not. Include: Sell yourself to us in the video and why we should hire you over other candidates. HERE ARE SOME BASIC IDEAS BUT DON'T LIMIT YOURSELF: Who you are & your background Your motorcycle history (what you ride, how you ride, wrenching experience) Why you want to work at Law Abiding Biker What skills you bring to the table Past experience and expertise Why you're the right person for this role
On today's episode, Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler talks with Lead Analyst Logan Mohtashami about the DOJ investigating the Fed. The two also discuss falling inventory growth. Related to this episode: DOJ opens criminal investigation into Federal Reserve and Powell The impact of lower mortgage rates on housing inventory HousingWire | YouTube More info about HousingWire To learn more about Trust & Will click here. The HousingWire Daily podcast brings the full picture of the most compelling stories in the housing market reported across HousingWire. Each morning, listen to editor in chief Sarah Wheeler talk to leading industry voices and get a deeper look behind the scenes of the top mortgage and real estate.
Robert Guerrero spent nearly 14 years as an executive with Insurance Auto Auctions, so he understands the complexities of damaged vehicles, distraught owners, auto insurers and repair shops. Now as the president and co-founder of ClaimBuyout, Guerrero explained how damaged vehicles with plenty of viable life remaining can be another plentiful source of dealership inventory. Guerrero appeared on the Live Stage presented by SYCN Auto Logistics during Used Car Week 2025. His conference conversation with Cherokee Media Group's Nick Zulovich is now available through this episode of the Auto Remarketing Podcast.
The How of Business - How to start, run & grow a small business.
Inventory is one of the most misunderstood and cash-intensive assets in a small business, and managing it strategically can dramatically improve cash flow, reduce risk, and support sustainable growth. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/592-smarter-inventory-better-cash/ Inventory is often treated as an operational detail, but for many small businesses it is one of the biggest drivers of cash flow strain and hidden risk. In this episode, Henry Lopez reframes inventory for what it really is - cash tied up on your shelves - and explains why poor inventory decisions can quietly suffocate profitability. Henry walks through the most common inventory challenges small business owners face, including trapped working capital, spoilage and obsolescence, shrinkage, unpredictable demand, and the temptation of bulk-purchase discounts that often do more harm than good. He explains why inventory typically lives on the balance sheet rather than the P&L (Profit & Loss Statement), and how that accounting reality can mask its true impact on business performance. On this episode of The How of Business podcast Henry also explores the origins of Just-In-Time inventory, its roots in Toyota's post-war production system, and how small businesses can responsibly apply lean inventory principles today, especially now that most supply chains have stabilized after COVID disruptions. Finally, Henry outlines the core components of an effective inventory operating system, from software and supplier management to a short list of essential KPIs that help business owners stay in control. The key takeaway: inventory decisions are cash decisions and managing them well is critical to long-term business health and growth. Inventory management is not just about what you sell or use, it's how you invest your cash, manage risk, and determine whether your business can grow and survive. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website https://TheHowOfBusiness.com
Recorded live from Anaheim, this episode explores the future of the powersports industry with Bernie Brenner of Rollick. We break down what real consumer data is revealing, why AI is becoming essential for dealers, and how smarter insights can improve lead conversion, efficiency, and inventory performance.If you want a clear look at where the industry is headed—and how dealers can stay ahead—this is a must-listen.
What does the footwear industry's latest inventory surge reveal about broader economic trends? In this episode of Shoe In Show, hosts Matt Priest and Gary Raines dive deep into inventory strategies amidst evolving consumer behavior and tariffs. With inventory levels hitting a two-year high, they explore how data collection from publicly traded companies is informing industry outlooks. Discover the implications for retailers and consumers in a dynamic market shaped by unexpected events. WSJ Article referenced in the episode With special guest: Gary Raines, Chief Economist, FDRA Hosted by: Matt Priest
January slows down, but the inventory almost never does. After December, most bars are sitting on too much product, bad pars, and shelves that look fine until cash flow tells a different story.In this episode, we break down how to reset your inventory so it matches the pace of your bar, not the December rush. We'll show you where variances usually hide, what “normal” actually looks like, and how small fixes can free up real cash fast.If you want fewer panic orders, cleaner numbers, and more money in the bank during the slow season, this is the reset that matters.
If you wish to support the show and PFC Irvine's Journey you can find his Ebay store here----> PFC NETWORK Like our Facebook Page: Learning To Deal Podcast Learning To Deal Is a podcast about the host's (PFC Irvine) Journey in being a coin dealer while dealing with life and invisible combat injuries.
HOMETOWN PAPER VERDICT: Toronto Star labels Meghan "most disappointing celebrity of 2025"—columnist: "Despite having all the ingredients to become global success, she has slowly deflated." Source: "Most painful review Meghan has had because it comes from city that once gave her refuge and normality. It's shaken her confidence." AS EVER INVENTORY DISASTER: Website glitch allegedly exposes $23M in unsold stock—220K+ jars fruit spreads, 90K candles, 110K tea products. Twitter analysis: "At current sales rates will take NINE YEARS to move all stock. That's catastrophically bad." Daily Express defends: "Points to business that's flying, literally off the shelf." DIANA DOCUMENTARY PLANS: Harry/Meghan developing Diana film for Netflix—Meghan wants to DIRECT. William "absolutely sickened that Harry, by extension Meghan, will be profiting off Diana. Nothing more than shameless money grab and he's vowing to do whatever it takes to stop them." Meghan pushing Harry to access SEALED 6,000-page Diana dossier in Paris (not public until 2082)—source: "She's convinced it could give them ultimate 'hook' to save their Netflix deal." HARRY "HOMESICK, HENPECKED AND HOLLOWED-OUT"—sources: "Harry has reached breaking point with life in California, no longer sees future for himself there. Feels profoundly unhappy and directionless. He misses the life he had—loved his sports, having laugh and pint with pals at pub. Misses sense of purpose being working royal gave him." Insider: "That security case became escape route. He is just absolutely done with life in the States." SECURITY WIN opens spring UK visit—late Feb/early March window. STRICT CONDITIONS: NDAs, Faraday bags for phones at family meetings, pre-approved social media, mediator to ensure "Meghan doesn't bottle things up and offload later in interviews." Princess Anne BLOCKING reconciliation—calling Meghan "upstart," says Charles entertaining reconciliation is "madness." KARDASHIANS CUTTING THEM OFF—Kris Jenner furious over photo permission denial: "Massive slap in face—one that she cannot let slide."PR AGENCIES REJECTING them—quote: "Difficult and frankly cheap. Kardashians and Beyoncé spend fortune on PR; Harry and Meghan expect same results for fraction of budget." "ARISE, QUEEN KATE" causes palace irritation—Times magazine cover sparks Camilla fury. Deep Crown: "Catherine achieved what current King spent decades pursuing: genuine public affection combined with institutional credibility." AI chatbot creatingSEXUALIZED IMAGES of Kate—Ofcom urgent intervention with Elon Musk's X. Andrew sending "begging letters" via Sarah Ferguson. "Duchess of England" Epstein manual mystery. Easter Royal Lodge deadline. Camilla reveals teenage sexual assault on train. Plus: Harry "homesick," Archewell staff 80-85% reduction, rom-com as "make-or-break," $150K-$300K PR budgets they won't pay.Palace Intrigue is your daily royal family podcast, diving deep into the modern-day drama, power struggles, and scandals shaping the future of the monarchy.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.
Anesthesia and Critical Care Reviews and Commentary (ACCRAC) Podcast
In this 325th episode I welcome Drs. Elliot Higgins and Amy Vinson to the show to discuss the development of the Well-Being Influencers Survey for Healthcare (WISH) inventory and how it is changing the way we think about, study and improve well-being in medicine. Our Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com* Check out FIGS and use my code FIGSRX for a great deal: https://wearfigs.com* Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/accrac50off* Check out Quince: https://quince.com/ACCRACAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Dr. Zac Rogers comes on to discuss the historic drawdown on inventory levels in December's LMI. Follow the Freightonomics Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dr. Zac Rogers comes on to discuss the historic drawdown on inventory levels in December's LMI. Follow the Freightonomics Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we explore how to launch a fashion brand without the risk of buying huge amounts of inventory upfront.Paul Yu, Founder and CEO of eProlo, explains how modern supply chains allow sellers to start small and test products before committing to large orders. He shares how his platform helps over 1.6 million sellers use custom branding and automated shipping to grow their businesses. Paul also discusses why focusing on a tiny niche is the best way for new brands to survive and scale in today's market.Topics discussed in this episode: How Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) kill new fashion brands.Why buying inventory upfront is risky.How eProlo automates global fulfillment. What custom branding adds to packaging. Why a small niche ensures better focus. How to transition from zero to millions. What role automated shop syncing plays. Why stable suppliers reduce business risk. Links & Resources Website: https://eprolo.com/Shopify App Store: https://apps.shopify.com/eproloLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eprolo/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Eprolo/ Get access to more free resources by visiting the show notes at https://tinyurl.com/3yanmjsf______________________________________________________ LOVE THE SHOW? HERE ARE THE NEXT STEPS! Follow the podcast to get every bonus episode. Tap follow now and don't miss out! Rate & Review: Help others discover the show by rating the show on Apple Podcasts at https://tinyurl.com/ecb-apple-podcasts Join our Free Newsletter: https://newsletter.ecommercecoffeebreak.com/ Support The Show On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EcommerceCoffeeBreak Partner with us: https://ecommercecoffeebreak.com/partner-with-us/
Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the latest Q4 sales and inventory data in 2026. Tune in to learn more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
With host retail coach Wendy Batten https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/ In This Episode: You know that shop down the street that always seems to be doing well? The one that looks calm, confident, and steady while everyone else feels frantic? In this Season 6 kickoff episode of Creative Shop Talk, I'm pulling back the curtain on what's actually happening behind the scenes and sharing my 7 predictions for what independent retailers need to focus on in 2026 if they want a business that lasts. This episode is not about doing more. It's about focusing on what matters. We're talking about building a brand that means something, understanding profit instead of just chasing sales, making smarter inventory decisions, designing intentional customer experiences, building systems that don't rely on you, stepping fully into your CEO role, and defining success in a way that includes your life, not just your revenue. If you're an established shop owner who wants sustainability, clarity, and momentum going into 2026, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually matters. Key Takeaways A real brand is built on trust, standards, and consistency, not just visuals. Sales don't equal profit. You need clarity on what actually drives profit. The strongest decisions come from a blend of intuition, experience, and data. Inventory is working capital, not decor. You're not competing with Amazon. You're competing with indifference. If your business can't function without you, you've built a job, not a company. CEO-level leadership brings calm, clarity, and direction. A successful business that costs you your life is not success. 7 Focus Areas in Your Retail Biz in 2026: 1. Build a brand that actually means something. Your brand is the promise you keep. Standards, consistency, and trust matter more than aesthetics. 2. Get real profit clarity. Revenue can look impressive while profit quietly disappears. Understand margins and true profit drivers. 3. Treat inventory like the asset it is. Inventory is cash tied up on your shelves. Buy intentionally and review performance regularly. 4. Design the customer experience on purpose. Experience is strategy. Every touchpoint should be intentional. 5. Build systems that don't rely on you. If everything funnels through you, growth stalls. Systems create leverage. 6. Step fully into your CEO role. CEO leadership means direction, standards, and decision-making, not people-pleasing. 7. Define success in a way that includes your life. Start with the life you want, then build the business to support it. "Your business should support your life. That's not indulgent. It's intelligent." -Wendy Batten Related podcasts we think you'll like: Episode 118: How To Create Loyalty and Amazing Customer Experiences with Guest Expert & Author: Shep Hyken Episode 243: Behind the Counter: Creating Customer Joy in Retail with Kim Williams of The Polka Dot Press Episode 274: Is Your Customer Journey Map Working? Audit it Now! About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven't met you…I'm Wendy Batten. I've been a small business owner, coach, and mentor for over 25 years, and I help thoughtful, established entrepreneurs step into their role as CEO and build businesses that are profitable, meaningful, and supportive of the lives they want to live. My work blends real-world strategy with a life-first philosophy, shaped by lived experience, not theory. I've been there! Through honest conversations and practical insight, I invite you into bigger thinking about leadership, possibility, and how to build both business and life on purpose. For more support from Wendy Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG All of Wendy's current programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer.Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Tha
Our friend Rachel shares a piece she wrote about how conflicting feelings can exist in ourselves, what that means and how to show up for yourself in the future. The importance of growing and learning lessons as we age. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lesbian-chronicles-coming-out-later-in-life--5601514/support.
#674: Welcome to Greatest Hits Week – five days, five episodes from our vault, spelling out F-I-I-R-E. Today's letter R stands for Real Estate. This episode originally aired in May 2022, but the insights on long-distance investing remain just as relevant for anyone feeling priced out of their local market. We tackle the five biggest challenges of investing far from home – from fear of the unknown to managing contractors remotely – and reveal four compelling benefits that make it worth the effort, especially when you're competing in markets where million-dollar properties are the norm. ________ Remember when inflation was high and rates were rising? What were people saying about real estate back then? And with the benefit of hindsight, how much of what we thought at the time proved to be correct? If you feel unsettled, join the club. At this present moment – December 2025 – interest rates are falling, but not enough. Inflation is mostly under control, but not enough. The noise makes everything feel new. When you only see the present moment, everything looks obvious. When you remember the past, patterns start to show. That's why we're rewinding the clock back to May 2022 – when interest rates were rising and inflation was near its peak. So what was on our mind three years ago? We start with the basics. Why the Federal Reserve raises rates. What higher borrowing costs do to spending. Why falling stock prices often reflect fear – not proof that housing prices must fall next. We explain the difference between recession and deflation, and why the two are often confused. We walk through what made the housing market in 2022 different from 2008. Inventory was tight. Builders had not overbuilt. Many homeowners held fixed-rate mortgages and record levels of equity. Those conditions mattered then. They still matter now. That equity becomes the next focus. We talk about cash-out refinances, HELOCs, and reverse mortgages – and what happens when homeowners borrow against rising values. You hear how higher rates can slow borrowing, why that matters for inflation, and what risks appear if some borrowers struggle to repay. From there, we outline four ways investors might encounter properties if foreclosures rise: bank-owned homes, short sales, “subject to” deals, and wraparound mortgages. The episode then shifts to long-distance real estate investing. You hear the real challenges. Fear of the unknown. Managing people you cannot see. Contractors who disappear. Agents who stop returning calls. You also hear what makes distance workable: education, relationships, local investor networks. We walk through how investors think when conditions feel unstable — and why looking backward sharpens how you see what comes next. Timestamps: Note: Timestamps will vary on individual listening devices based on dynamic advertising run times. The provided timestamps are approximate and may be several minutes off due to changing ad lengths. (0:00) Trade-offs and priorities (07:41) Fed hikes rates (09:16) Inflation drivers explained (11:26) Recession vs housing (13:21) Home equity surge (15:21) Borrowing against equity (17:11) Foreclosures and options (18:26) Subject-to and wraps (21:11) Shift to distance investing (25:31) Education and networks (31:36) Choosing markets (36:11) Accountability challenges Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices