Bridget outlines a three-step process for interacting with customers in the sales process. Adapted from a Harvard Business Review interview with Kevin Peters of Office Depot, the podcast offers an effective structure to conversing with consumers.

Are there too many stores and not enough sales? In some cases, yes, especially for general retailers. But the expansion in retail stores is in a positive trend for specialty retailers like plant retailers. The retailing trends, some causes for the growth and decline, and how plant retailers can take advantage of some of the trends are discussed.

Eye-tracking measures how and where they eye moves. Dr. Bridget Behe was one of the first researchers to publish findings about how consumers find the cues they believe are most important faster than other cues.

Different states believe different local foods best represent them. Food marketers will be especially interested to take a look at what their state's residents believe best represents them in terms of local food and how accurate their perceptions really are.

With unemployment at an all time low, finding and keeping new hires is a big challenge. Getting them on-board for a successful start is key to keeping them on your team. Based on a 12/18 Harvard Business Review article, Bridget discusses the technical and social activities to get new employees off to a great start.

Offering tiered pricing isn't a new concept, but one worth revisiting. It appeals to a broad range of consumer budgets and helps customers realize more benefits may come from spending just a bit more.

Is texting your customers right for you? Bridget talks about a recent conversation she had with a vendor for text-based marketing.

Vision statements can act like powerful magnets to help you decide how to spend your time and help you achieve your goals.

Plants with fragrance can be considered hedonic or appealing to the senses. Bridget discusses the why and how to consider charging a slight premium for plants with fragrance.

Dr. Phil Howard returns to continue the discussion on mergers and acquisitions. More specifically, they discuss stealthy ownership (especially in the beverage industry).