Welcome to the wild world of retail Karens, who live in the mystical land of narcissistic entitlement, where the universe revolves around them.  The retail Karen demographic is described as a middle aged, suburban white woman. The stereotype usually sports a specific haircut and a shockingly firm belief that the “rules” don’t apply to her.  She hunts down managers like they’re rare Pokemon, all while holding the undefeated title of public meltdown queen.  So grab your mushroom coffee and hide your name tag like your life depends on it.

We waited ages at the groomer, only for Chloe to return half-shaved and fully confused. Then we wrangled out of a massage contract we didn’t even know we had to get out of. Two stories of crossing the line from “patient” to “problem”—and realizing it was kind of empowering.

Transitioning from retail to corporate is a journey riddled with unexpected challenges, as explored in the podcast episode The Job That Sent Us to Therapy. From battling rigid leave policies to enduring customer hostility over the phone, every hurdle adds to the emotional toll. And when workplace culture veers into toxic territory—where peers aren’t allies but adversaries, eager to shift blame—staying grounded becomes a survival skill. To counteract the creeping sense of gaslighting, prioritizing mental wellness is key. Simple breath-work exercises can help regulate stress, such as inhaling for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for four. Taking short breaks to reset, listening to calming music, or stepping outside for fresh air can be small yet powerful ways to regain perspective. Because in a workplace that tests your resilience, self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

"The Breathing Witch—casting stress away, one deep inhale at a time!"💨 

Episode 004. 

Ever had a boss ask you to do something so bizarre it felt like a hidden-camera prank? This episode dives into the most awkward, absurd, and downright strange experiences that jobs have thrown our way—from photographers stuck in cringeworthy encounters to fitting room flashers that turned a normal shift into a spectacle. And let’s not forget the managers who just couldn’t help but pry into every aspect of employees’ lives. Get ready for the stories that will make you laugh, wince, and rethink the definition of "job duties."

Episode 003. 

Welcome back to the American Retail Diaries podcast, where hosts Kate and Tracey dive into the rollercoaster world of retail jobs. In this episode, titled "When You Knew Your First Day Was Your Last," they share humorous and heartbreaking tales from their experiences in the workforce. Kate recounts her disastrous stint at a Mexican fast-food chain, from the grueling interview process to burning her hand in hot oil without proper safety gear. Meanwhile, Tracey jumps into a call center job only to find herself unexpectedly let go. Despite everything, they both learned invaluable lessons about listening to their instincts and knowing their worth. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, frustration, and a guardian angel's unexpected advice.

Episode 002. 

In the debut episode of American Retail Diaries, hosts Kate and Lexington share the humorous and enlightening stories of their very first jobs. Kate recounts her experience working on a charming fall farm in Ohio, where love for all things autumn was tested by unexpected manual labor. Meanwhile, Lexington takes us through his teenage years in the fast-paced world of fast food, complete with pranks and mischievous adventures. Join us as we explore these fond memories, reflecting on the amusing challenges and life lessons our early employment offered. Discover why these tales of trial and error still resonate today, setting the stage for more exciting retail stories to come each week.

Episode 001.