Creative Shop Talk with Wendy Batten

With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

In This Episode: 

As independent retailers, protecting our stores, staff, and ourselves is always a top priority, right? How do you ensure safety among your staff and yourself - especially when it comes to loss prevention? In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I am sharing practical tips to prevent both external (shoplifting by customers) and internal (staff) theft to ensure your shop stays safe, profitable, and secure for everyone.

• Inventory is Money: Every piece of stock represents your revenue and you need to be vigilant about protecting it. Do you have a handle on your inventory? Is your POS up to date? Do you have cameras in place and separation of duties among your employees?

• Safety First for You and Your Staff:

• Ensure your team feels safe by having clear protocols for dealing with shoplifters. Never confront them directly—safety is more important than merchandise.

• Empower staff to trust their instincts and call the police if something feels off. Prioritize their well-being in every situation - do not confront shoplifters, call the police and allow them to handle the situation.

• Best Practices for Loss Prevention:

• Engage customers as soon as they enter the shop and ensure visibility in all store areas.

• Use simple tools like mirrors, security cameras, and clear layouts to reduce theft.

• Foster a culture of awareness with your team, making sure they know you are paying attention.

• POS Systems and Inventory Management: Track inventory regularly, audit stock, and ensure employees are aware that it's being monitored.

• Separation of Duties: Rotate responsibilities for handling cash and inventory to avoid unchecked control. 

Loss prevention isn’t just about protecting your inventory—it’s about keeping yourself, your team, and your business safe. By implementing these strategies, you’ll reduce risk and ensure a secure environment for everyone.

Catch the next episode for tips on end-of-month preparation!

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 104: Tight on Cash Flow? Let’s Turn Your Old Inventory into Cash!

Episode 193: Retailers: First Impressions Count!

Episode 208: Stacking Your Team with Guest Expert Shelli Warren

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

In This Episode: 

Do you feel like you are always looking for new customers? Did you know that it is less expensive to keep your customers coming back than it is to market to new ones?

In this episode of The Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m sitting down with Katrina Scarlett of Scarlett & Co. to chat about how independent retailers can elevate their in-store experience through a hospitality-driven approach and focus on customer retention. Katrina is a customer experience expert whose company specializes in helping clients improve retention, satisfaction, and monetization efforts to make a bigger impact. While she works now mostly with authors and coaches, her experience and approach are perfect for retail. I am so inspired by her work and am excited to share this conversation with you. Let’s dive in!

Here are some of the highlights and major touchpoints of our chat:

• Customer Retention as a Key Strategy: Katrina emphasized that customer retention goes beyond repeat visits—it's about creating loyalty and fostering a referral network. Loyal customers not only return but also spread the word, helping retailers grow their business organically.

• The Five Pillars of Customer Experience: Katrina’s framework focuses on five essential areas that retailers should prioritize and with this framework, can set up actual operational guidelines for their staff and business. 

1. Culture: A customer-centric culture should start from the top and flow throughout the entire team.

2. Service: Retailers should focus on delivering more than just basic customer service—serving with intention and heart is essential.

3. Offers: Product mixes should cater to customers’ needs and desires, not just the store owner's preferences.

4. Operations: Streamlining processes and systems makes shopping easier and frictionless for customers.

5. Journey: The customer journey includes every interaction and touch point, from first impressions online to in-store purchases and beyond.

• Adopting a Hospitality Mindset: Adopting a hospitality-first approach in retail is key. Treating customers like valued guests can make a significant impact on their experience and loyalty.

• Importance of Operations: Efficient operations, such as easy returns and smooth checkout processes, are vital for improving the overall customer experience. Katrina highlights that operational decisions should always consider both the business and the customer’s experience.

• Customer-Centric Focus: The success of a retail store is built on the satisfaction of its customers. Period. 

“Return to your heart of service.” -Katrina Scarlett

Listen to the full episode to hear more ideas, the why and how to’s. You will gain actionable insights into how to improve your retail shop’s customer experience, build stronger loyalty, and create a hospitality-driven retail culture!

About Katrina and Scarlett & Co.

Katrina Scarlett is the founder and driving force behind Scarlett & Co., a company that specializes in helping authors and coaches improve their client retention, satisfaction and monetization efforts so they can increase their profits and expand their impact. 

You can follow along with Katrina and Scarlett & Co. here:

Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

17 Easy Ways to Improve Client Satisfaction & Retention

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 93: How to Wow and Delight Your Customers and Keep Them Coming Back

Episode 118: How to Create Loyalty and Amazing Customer Experiences with Author Shep Hyken

Episode 144: How to Create a Customer Journey Map

Episode 215: Coffee Break Chat: Customer Service vs. Customer Experience

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

In This Episode: 

Something I encourage my retailers to ask themselves regularly: Does the vision I have for my retail shop match its reality?

Running a successful retail shop involves more than just great products and a love for your store. The true test is whether your shop's current reality aligns with the vision you originally had and the vision you desire to have. 

Are there areas of your business that feel messy or hard or annoying to you? This happens to all of us, but it must be corrected. As with any thriving ecosystem, there has to be balance and alignment - and that’s where my Retailer’s Ecosystem framework comes in.

Here’s a quick guide to help you assess and realign your business:

• Evaluate Your Vision: Does your shop’s daily operations reflect the atmosphere, customer experience, flow of your daily business life, staff interactions and income you initially envisioned? If not, it’s time to reassess and adjust.

• Retail Ecosystem Check: Success in retail (and for your own personal payroll as a retail shop owner) hinges on a balanced ecosystem.

We suggest you evaluate and assess these four critical areas:

1. CEO/Visionary Role: As the leader, you must maintain a healthy mindset, clear future planning, and strong personal habits. Your energy and vision set the tone for the store. How often do you invest in your own personal development as your business evolves?

2. Marketing Strategy: Go beyond social media. Develop a comprehensive strategy that includes customer experience, visibility, and brand consistency. Measure your efforts with clear strategy and metrics for things like conversion rates as you work to turn browsers to buyers, and in store sales and order value increase strategies etc. Do you have a full marketing strategy in place? It can be simple, but it needs to cover all areas. Attract, engage, serve, and wow and delight your customers. 

3. Operations & Systems: Streamline your shop’s operations with clear systems and shop standards. Implementing standardized procedures for everything from customer service to daily cleaning can transform chaos into order.

4. Financial Alignment: Don’t shy away from your numbers. Understand your finances, including pricing, inventory management, and profitability metrics. Confidence in this area empowers better decision-making.

• Continuous Improvement: Retail success isn’t static. Regularly revisit and refine these areas to ensure your business evolves in line with your vision.

Listen in on the full episode for more information!

If you need more support, I hope you’ll join me and like-minded retailers in the Retailers Inner Circle, where ongoing training and resources are available to help you keep your retail ecosystem thriving. We have masterclasses covering every level of the retailer’s ecosystem to help you level up your retail shop and grow a successful business.

Reflect on the four areas above and identify where your business might need a little more attention. Making small adjustments can lead to big improvements in profitability, joy, and overall business success. And if you are ready to level up… join the Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 94: The Retailer’s Ecosystem: Where to Spend Your Time and Focus Within Your Business

Episode 130: The Karate Kid Stages Will Help Your Retail Business

Episodes 163-166: Simple Sales Strategy Series

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

Looking for a retail survival guide for the Holidays? I’ve got you! My Holiday Success Bootcamp is truly all you need to rock the 4th quarter in your retail business. And the best news is you can purchase it as a stand-alone masterclass this year! Don’t wing it this holiday season! Grab it here!

The Holiday Success Bootcamp got a glow-up in 2024! In addition to the 5 masterclass sessions, the program also includes:

• A list of curated ideas (that we know work!) for promotional events for every holiday/celebration from October through January

• 6 editable email templates every retailer should send between Black Friday and New Year’s Day

• Holiday gift certificate templates

• Social media prompts and editable Q4 Canva graphics that make scheduling posts for the holidays EASY

• …and so much more!

In This Episode: 

Happy September! Did you know September is Self-Care Awareness Month? Well, it is - so let’s talk about it. As I’m sure you know by now, running a retail business is rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming. This episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast focuses on self-care for retail shop owners.

As retail shop owners, we must remember that self-care isn’t selfish at all.

It’s SO important to avoid burnout in your retail business. So let’s talk about being the CEO of your life, not just your business. 

Some points discussed in this episode:

• Self-Care Awareness Month: This is the perfect time to step back and decide what self-care means for you and what works to help you feel cared for in your personal life and in your biz

• Your life needs you: I chat about checking in on different areas of your life and why you need to prioritize them.

• Health and Energy: Focus on your health by optimizing sleep, movement, and nutrition. Small improvements in these areas lead to greater energy, which fuels your business.

• Mental Health: Be mindful of stress and anxiety. Recognize the signs of overworking, and take steps to relax, such as reducing screen time and practicing mindfulness. 

• Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no” to things that drain your energy and be clear about your goals. When you are planned out and clear about your priorities, it’s easier to manage the day-to-day. 

• People: Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Be intentional about being in the room with people who have a solution mindset, not a complaint mindset, those who give you energy, not take it. 

• Hobbies and Joy: Rediscover hobbies and activities that make you happy. (Yes, you need to make time for fun and joy). This doesn’t just benefit you—it helps everyone around you.

"Pay attention to the tension. We unintentionally ignore some areas of our lives unless we're being intentional. So, what do you need to feel alive and thrive?" - Wendy Batten

When you take care of yourself, you can show up stronger for your business and your loved ones. So tell me: what does self-care look like for you? What are your best tips?

And remember: running a retail business doesn’t have to be so hard - and you don’t have to do it alone! The Inner Circle is always open and full of like-minded retailers who’ve been where you are. And the masterclasses will have you thinking about your business in ways you haven’t before. See you inside! 

"The world belongs to the energetic." – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 106: Multi-Passionate Jo Packham and the Creative Business Journey

Episode 185: Avoid Burnout with Guest Expert Dr. Ashley Margeson

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

Looking for a retail survival guide for the Holidays? I’ve got you! My Holiday Success Bootcamp is truly all you need to rock the 4th quarter in your retail business. And the best news is you can purchase it as a stand-alone masterclass this year! Don’t wing it this holiday season! Grab it here!

The Holiday Success Bootcamp got a glow-up in 2024! In addition to the 5 masterclass sessions, the program also includes:

• A list of curated ideas (that we know work!) for promotional events for every holiday/celebration from October through January

• 6 editable email templates every retailer should send between Black Friday and New Year’s Day

• Holiday gift certificate templates

• Social media prompts and editable Q4 Canva graphics that make scheduling posts for the holidays EASY

• …and so much more!

In This Episode: 

Sometimes, as retail shop owners, we get so busy working on our businesses and staying in our lanes that we make the mistake of thinking everyone knows what’s going on inside of our shops. YOU know what you do in your shop. YOU know what you sell. But does your community know what your shop is all about? 

This episode is all about putting an end to the assumption that people in your community know what you do and what you sell in your retail business. I’m here to tell you that you have to be talking about your shop and your business so much that even YOU are almost sick of hearing it!

How do you know if you are talking enough about your biz? Here’s some homework:

1. Identify your best-selling categories (jeans, jewelry, candles, etc.)

2. Go through all of your social media & selling platforms (email, FB, etc) and figure out how often you are actually sharing these categories.

3. Also, identify HOW you are sharing the categories: is it just through live video or just static photos? You need to mix it up!

4. Make sure you are highlighting your best sellers inside of your store through visually appealing displays and great signage. Tell the stories of your products.

This short episode can have a huge impact on your business if you take 20 minutes out of your next CEO date to do a quick audit of how and how often you are sharing your best-selling categories. I want to hear how this episode helped you! DM me on Instagram and let’s chat!

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 103: Increase Sales with Your Silent Salesperson: Signage

Episodes 198-200: Stop Hiding and Be Known: Retailer’s Visibility Series

Episode 221: How to Raise the Bar on Excellence in Retail with Guest Expert Jeffrey Shaw

Episode 222: 6 Things to Do This Month To Prepare Your Shop for the Holidays

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

In This Episode: 

So much gold here. 

Are you considering buying an existing business in a field that’s outside of your wheelhouse? Already a business owner but interested in a great conversation between a husband/wife entrepreneurial team and hearing some great advice for your store? This episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast is for you!

Robin and Dan Haynes purchased an existing equestrian retail shop called The Golden Horseshoe in Eureka, MO in 2023. As entrepreneurs in real estate, they are always looking for an opportunity and couldn’t pass this one up! Robin knew a bit about the equestrian industry and found out the shop was for sale after their daughter started working at Golden Horseshoe. They each have their own roles in the business and are active members of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. Dan is always sharing incredible marketing ideas, biz book recommendations, and inspiration for the whole group.

Throughout this duel interview episode, Robin and Dan chat about their experience purchasing a business that had been operating for over 40 years. Here’s what you can expect to hear us chat about:

• How they refreshed and elevated a tired brand

• How they leveled up their marketing and customer experience

• Some tips to navigating social media successfully without having to buy ads

• How they handled staff resistance and turnover

• How they are building a business they can turn into passive income

• What they are doing to keep staff communications consistent

• The pros of building a business with your spouse (you all know I could probably do a whole episode on this one!)

• What they would have done differently if they bought the business today

• Why you need to keep your books clean! (so so important!)

• Dan’s favorite masterclasses in the Inner Circle and what he’s excited for in the group

This episode has so many golden nuggets of wisdom - even if you aren’t interested in purchasing an existing business but simply looking for ways to make yours run more smoothly. Let’s dive in!

“Most people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can do in 10 years.” -Bill Gates

About The Golden Horseshoe

In April of 2023, new owners took the reins of Golden Horseshoe. The Haynes and Robinson Families set out to build from the strong foundation of Golden Horseshoe in order to create something special for the next 40 years and beyond.

The vision of the partnership was to bring the operations, outreach and education into the tech age while remaining true to the roots of the store. This new vision quickly became evident with a complete restart of the business to include branding, store layout, product lines, customer service and online service.

Website | Facebook 

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 159: Best of Series: Prepare to Sell, Franchise, or Expand: Four Areas That Need to be Under Control

Episode 183: Fine Tuning Your Business Operations with Guest Expert Gwen Bortner

Episode 202: Why Every Retail Store Should Consider Selling Souvenirs 

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

In This Episode: 

Ready to soar this holiday? I’ve never met a shop owner who wants to have a ho-hum holiday season! I’m here to help ensure your holiday season is as fab as your retail shop. The time to start preparing for Q4 and the holiday season is NOW. Take it from me: taking some time in August to get your retail shop’s ducks in a row for Q4 is worth its weight in gold! 

Not sure what exactly you should be doing to prepare? Here are the six topics I lay out for you in this episode:

• Goal setting for the holidays (and that doesn’t mean just to “beat last year’s numbers”)

• Know what you are going to sell/opportunities you are going to take to hit those goals

• Block your calendar with community events, your personal days, etc.

• Attach marketing plans to goals

• Prep your support team (your family and staff) for the holidays

• Sit back and implement your plan!

If you need more (trust me - you do!), I’ve got that for you in my Holiday Success Bootcamp workshop inside the Retailer’s Inner Circle. Not only do we deep dive into all of these topics, I’ll be helping you work through the program with a live Q+A every week from August 15 through September 15. 

The Holiday Success Bootcamp got a glow-up in 2024! In addition to the 5 masterclass sessions, the program also includes:

• A list of curated ideas (that we know work!) for promotional events for every holiday/celebration from October through January

• 6 editable email templates every retailer should send between Black Friday and New Year’s Day

• Holiday gift certificate templates

• Social media prompts and editable Q4 Canva graphics that make scheduling posts for the holidays EASY

• …and so much more!

NEW THIS YEAR: You can purchase the Holiday Success Bootcamp as a standalone masterclass!

Sales and success (especially around the holidays) come from being prepared - so let’s do what we can now. You owe it to yourself, your team, and your customers. Let’s dive in!

You can grab that workshop for a limited time right HERE. 

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 221: How to Raise the Bar on Excellence in Retail with Guest Expert Jeffrey Shaw

Sales Series for the Holidays

Holiday Sales Playlist: Our favorite podcast episodes geared to holiday sales

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

In This Episode: 

Have you ever considered looking to luxury brands for inspiration, even if you don’t consider your brand or products to be luxury? I have news for you: you should!

In this episode, I’m chatting with one of the biggest advocates for small businesses, my mentor (and one of my favorite humans) Jeffrey Shaw. Jeffrey is the host of The Self Employed Life Podcast and author of two excellent business books: The Self-Employed Life and LINGO. Jeff is the real deal: he has been self-employed for his entire career. He has never received a paycheck from someone else! He has built his business around his passion for self-employed business owners and building the local economy. He’s got so much to share on how and why, as retailers, we need to raise the bar on excellence.

“If you make your customers feel seen and understood, you will create an unbreakable bond.” - Jeffrey Shaw

Here are just a few of the topics we chat about:

• How small businesses (like yours!) are saving Main Street

• One of the most important things business owners overlook while marketing their business

• The brands you should follow and dissect to mimic the “luxury experience” (even if you aren’t operating a luxury brand!)

• Why making assumptions about your customers/clients can be detrimental to your business (and some ideas on how to stop)

I love this conversation for so many reasons and the way Jeffrey weaves real-life examples and stories into our chat makes it so powerful. He inspires us through storytelling and shares how we can raise the bar to achieve excellence in our retail businesses. Let’s dive in!

Jump into my DMs on IG and share with me your takeaways. 

About our Guest, Jeffrey Shaw

From humble beginnings, Jeffrey Shaw became one of the most preeminent portrait photographers in the United States. 

Today, Jeffrey speaks about how to sell to an affluent clientele at association events and conferences. He is the author of two books, The Self-Employed Life and LINGO, and host of, The Self-Employed Life podcast.

Jeffrey is also the founder of The Self-Employed Business Institute, his TEDx Talk is featured on TED.com, and he is responsible for the creation of National Self-Employed Day, which falls on May 4th of the U.S. National calendar.

Find Jeffrey here:

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 55: Unscalable Conversations: A Free, Simple and Powerful Marketing Tool To Use

Episode 142: How to Make Real Progress in Your Business with Guest Expert Richard Ralston

Episode 215: Customer Service vs. Customer Experience

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

July is winding down and Member Appreciation Month is coming to a close in the Retailer’s Inner Circle but we are just warming up to prepping for the Holidays. Our amped-up Holiday Bootcamp is launching in August! In addition to the 5 part masterclass, we’ve added promotional guides with creative and fun ideas to get buying customers in your shop in Q4. We’ve got editable social media graphics so the work is done for you - all you have to do is hit the schedule button! Q4 is coming and we’ve done the planning for you. Q4 doesn’t have to be hard! 

So much more is happening inside the Inner Circle - trust me you don’t want to miss it. You don’t have to run your retail business alone. Join us today!

In keeping with our celebration of our members all of July in the Inner Circle, we’re highlighting some of our favorite past interviews with Inner Circle retailer members! These retailer interviews are some of our most popular episodes and what you all are telling us you want more of. This week we are going all the way back to Episode 149 with Susan Mocker and Devon Cretella of Extending Grace in Hubbard, Ohio. Let’s dive in!

Show Notes 

As a retail coach, I often get asked my thoughts on going into business with friends and honestly, I have seen it succeed and I’ve seen it go sideways. Today, we are going to share a great success story of a retail partnership. Meet Retailer Inner Circle members Susan Mocker and Devon Cretella, owners of Extending Grace, a home decor shop in Hubbard, Ohio. They are sharing partnership advice and what worked for them and how two friends turned a shared creative hobby into a successful retail business partnership.

Susan and Devon will tell us what has worked for them in business, including a yearly planning retreat they take together and how they’ve balanced work and life. They’ll also give us their best advice on going into business with friends.

“Plan it, but write it in pencil because business is flexible.”

Whether or not you are considering joining a partnership, there is something for every retail shop owner in this episode. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did! 

About Susan and Devon:

Susan Mocker and Devon Cretella are the co-owners of Extending Grace in Hubbard, Ohio.

Friends since the 90’s, we opened the store in 2016. Both of us love all things vintage & creative, and our store reflects that.

Customers experience a home décor shop with a focus on antiques, vintage, DIY, and the work of local artists and collectors.

We love hanging out with our customers and neighbors during workshops, events, and community projects.

You can find them on Instagram, Facebook, and on their CommentSold Webstore.

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: Episode 122 - CEO Mindset and Community with Sylvia Davis

Episode 129 - Retailer Success Series: Community Attract Strategy with Inner Circle Member Michelle Emmons

Episode 179: Retailer Success Series: Jess Gebauer on Using Unique Marketing & Sales Strategies

Ready to Level Up? Join The Retailer’s Inner Circle. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple, Shop Standards, Money Matters, and so many others. Plus, you’ll have access to a private Facebook group where members can ask questions or share advice and their experiences of running a retail shop. And Q4 is coming! We’ve got your back. You don’t have to do retail alone!

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

Hey Friends! This month, we’re celebrating our retailers in the Retailer’s Inner Circle. It’s Member Appreciation Month! We’re hosting weekly giveaways (including private coaching sessions with me!), launching promotional guides and editable social media graphics, and so much more. It’s not too late to join us - and NOW is the time. 

You don’t have to run your retail business alone! Join the Inner Circle today and get immediate access to countless Masterclasses on topics from merchandising to social media and our coveted monthly playbooks that break your month down for you into bite sized pieces. You’ll also have an opportunity to make peer-to-peer connections in our community with retailers who are facing the same questions and issues as you. Q4 is looming and our revamped Holiday Bootcamp also launches soon. Retail doesn’t have to be so hard! Join us today!

In keeping with our celebration of our members, over the next few weeks on the podcast we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite past interviews with Inner Circle retailer members! These retailer interviews are some of our most popular episodes and what you all are telling us you want more of. This week we are going back a few months to Episode 204 with Jeanne Terrill of Junque Rescuers in Lake Jackson, Texas. Let’s dive in!

In This Episode: 

I’m taking you behind the counter of Junque Rescuers in Lake Jackson, Texas to chat with shop owner and Inner Circle member Jeanne Terrill in this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast. Buckle up because Jeanne is taking us on a ride and sharing her journey from accidental entrepreneur to thriving shop owner!

In the episode, she shares how her shop has evolved since opening as an antique/vintage shop in 2017. We talk about many of her challenges including moving locations, why incredible success caused her to change her product mix, and learning to put her CEO hat on and the changes that come along with that. Jeanne also shares examples of specific actions she has taken and changes she has made as a result of what she has learned from the Inner Circle masterclasses and our tight-knit community. 

I loved this conversation with Jeanne and I hope you do too! It’s always awesome to catch up with my Inner Circle retailers and share their successes with our podcast listeners. Did anything strike a chord for you? Anything you’ll be reflecting on or changes you are going to make based on the conversation you just listened to? 

Need more?

Join me and our supportive community of retailers in my Retailer’s Inner Circle! You’ll have access to countless Masterclasses including Foot Traffic Made Simple. Not ready to join but want to purchase this stand-alone masterclass? You can purchase it on demand HERE.

Most impactful: Join the small group 6-Week Sales Accelerator course.

We start April 24! More information HERE.

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

Episode 154: Retailer Success Series: Christie Carter-Tokairin: 10 Years In

Episode 122: Retailer Success Series: CEO Mindset and Community with Sylvia Davis of Louisville Mercantile

Episode 113: Retailer Success Series: Growth Mindset with Jeff Lee of The Vintage Nest

About Jeanne Terrill and Junque Rescuers

Junque Rescuers LLC is a well-established brick-and-mortar lifestyle boutique located in downtown Lake Jackson, Texas. With eight years of experience, the business has evolved from its roots as a vintage and vintage-inspired home decor store to become a versatile lifestyle brand.

You can follow along here: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/ 

For more support from Wendy

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. 

Subscribe & Review on iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rockstar, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those 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!