Creative Shop Talk with Wendy Batten

With host retail coach Wendy Batten

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

In This Episode:

Ready to transform your team from task-doers to strategic thinkers?

In Episode 272 of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I'm answering a question from one of my Mastermind members, Dan Haynes: How do we flip the mindset of management-level team members from task-oriented to strategic thinking?

I'm diving deep into nurturing effective leadership and fostering genuine team buy-in. You'll discover how to empower your employees, cultivate ownership, and build the culture you've always envisioned. I'm tackling the common challenge of getting your team to think strategically and guide the operation, rather than just completing tasks.

Key Takeaways on Leadership and Culture:

• Clarify Your Vision: Ensure your team understands the business vision and their role within it.

• Provide Tools & Nurture: Equip your team with necessary training, like time management and prioritization, and offer ongoing support.

• Empower Decision-Making: Foster strategic thinking by asking "what" and "why" questions, encouraging them to think proactively.

• Utilize KPIs and Explain the "Why": Help your team understand the ripple effect of their actions by connecting their efforts to key performance indicators and overall business goals.

• Celebrate Wins & Give Feedback: Encourage growth through constructive feedback using the "start, stop, continue" framework, and acknowledge their successes.

Your Next Steps:

1. Reflect on your current delegation style. Where can you let things go and trust your team more?

1. Pick any of the takeaways above and get to work:

   1. Begin using the "stop, start, continue" framework

   2. Start using "what" and "why" questions/interactions with your team.

   3. Celebrate employees' wins and give them feedback.

1. Join the Retailer's Inner CircleJoin me inside the Retailer's Inner Circle—our signature coaching community where retailers like you get tools, coaching, and lead your team with more confidence

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 153: Recipe for Success: 4 Leadership Lessons We Can Learn from Erin French of The Lost Kitchen

Episode 223:Behind the Counter: Buying an Existing Business with Shop Owners Dan & Robin Haynes

Episode 244: Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy

About your host, Wendy Batten

In case we haven't met yet, I'm Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer's Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy.

I've had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I've supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast.

For more support from Wendy

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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 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!

With host retail coach Wendy Batten

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

In This Episode:

Let's simplify the numbers you need to know and why in your retail business. Don't be that retailer that is overwhelmed by numbers in retail—or worse, avoiding them altogether.

In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I'm sharing the surprisingly simple method I use to help retailers finally understand their sales goals, profit margins, and growth potential. Say goodbye to spreadsheet stress and hello to clarity with my Profit Planning Masterclass and "back-of-the-napkin" profits calculator.

It's the calculator you have been waiting for and my clients LOVE.

Whether you're just getting started or years into running your retail business, this is the financial pep talk and practical tool you didn't know you needed.

What You'll Learn about Profit Planning:

• Why profit is essential (and not a dirty word!)

• What your "keep the lights on" number is and why you need to know it

• How to calculate your real sales goal using 3 simple numbers: foot traffic, conversion rate, and average order value

• The link between confident planning and business peace-of-mind

Your Next Steps:

1. Grab the Profit Planning Masterclass! Visit wendybatten.com/profit to access the $47 on-demand workshop and get the simple sales calculator that helps you set clear profit goals.

2. Calculate Your "Keep the Lights On" Number Identify your essential operating expenses—like rent, payroll, inventory—and plug them into the calculator to find out your real sales goal.

3. Gather 3 key data points from your POS system: Average Order Value (AOV), Foot Traffic, and Conversion Rate.

4. Set a Weekly or Monthly Sales Goal Use the calculator to determine exactly how much revenue you need—and how many customers you need to serve to reach it.

5. Talk to Your Team Share your new goals and engage your team in improving sales through better customer service and upselling techniques.

6. Join the Retailer's Inner CircleGet ongoing support, coaching, and access to my full library of trainings and tools.

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 31: 7 Strategies to Attract Foot Traffic to Your Brick and Mortar

Episode 103: Increase Sales With Your Silent Salesperson: Signage

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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:

Feeling stuck in perfectionism or weighed down by self-doubt? You're not alone—and you don't have to stay there!

In this quick yet powerful coffee chat, I'm sharing real conversations I've had with shop owners navigating mindset challenges like imposter syndrome, overwhelm, and lack of confidence.

You'll walk away with practical mantras, empowering reminders, and actionable strategies to help you move forward—even when things feel messy.

What You'll Learn:

• Why "done is better than perfect" is a game-changing mantra

• How to prioritize progress over pressure in your retail business

• Ways to quiet your inner critic and own your role as CEO

• Simple strategies for leading your team with confidence

Reminder: Your dream clients are looking for the real, imperfect you. You don't have to be filtered and perfect to attract your dream clients.

"Everything is figureoutable." - Marie Forleo

Your Next Steps:

1. Take 10 minutes this week and make a list of what makes your shop unique. Know WHY your customers love you and lean in to that.

2. Identify one task you're overthinking and complete it.

3. Check in with your team.

4. Ask for help where you are stuck. (I'm here for you!)

Jump on over to https://wendybatten.com/work-with-me/! From here, you'll be able to join the Retailer's Inner Circle or grab on-demand workshops, including what just dropped: my Profit Planning mini-masterclass that includes the "back of the napkin" easy profit planning calculator, my members are raving about! It's only been available for my coaching clients in the past, but for a limited time, we're offering it to you, our podcast listeners. (Members already have access!)

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 128: 5 Ways to Recreate That Disney Cash Flow Magic Inside Your Shop

Episode 153: Recipe for Success: 4 Leadership Lessons We Can Learn from Erin French of The Lost Kitchen

Episode 161: Takeaways from my Recent Mastermind Retreat

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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:

Is Your Google Business Profile Costing You Customers?

Your Google Business profile is one of the easiest and most powerful tools to drive retail growth. In this Coffee Break episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I'm sharing ten quick, high-impact ways to audit and refresh your profile—just in time for the fall retail rush.

Updating your Google Business profile takes 10 minutes. We all have 10 minutes! Use them to update your digital storefront and start showing up where your customers are already searching: GOOGLE!

What You'll Learn:

• Why accurate business info and categories on Google Business matter more than ever

• How photos, descriptions, and reviews drive trust and in-store visits (and why you need to respond to them!)

• Which hidden features (like Q&A and messaging) increase visibility and engagement

…and MORE!

Don't leave money on the table—this easy refresh could bring new customers through your door.

🎧 Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast or visit wendybatten.com for more smart strategies tailored to indie retailers.

Your Next Steps:

Take 10 minutes and audit your Google Business profile using the tips you learned in this episode! And as always, I'd love to hear your takeaways and what you found to improve on your profile. Jump in my DMs on Instagram at @wendybatten.biz!

Then, jump on over to https://wendybatten.com/work-with-me/! From here, you'll be able to join the Retailer's Inner Circle or grab on-demand workshops, including what just dropped: my Profit Planning mini-masterclass that includes the "back of the napkin" easy profit planning calculator, my members are raving about! It's only been available for my coaching clients in the past, but for a limited time, we're offering it to you, our podcast listeners. (Members already have access!)

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episodes 249-251: Retail Visibility Series: Stop Hiding and Be Known Parts 1-3

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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:

It's not luck. It's not magic. Running a successful retail shop takes purpose, planning, and showing up as your best self. In this inspiring episode, I'm sharing a powerful reminder from one of my favorite authors, Jon Acuff:

"Awesome is never accidental."

Let's talk about how you can intentionally create a business that feels great for you and your customers—on purpose, not by chance. We don't want average businesses or lives: strive for AWESOME.

Tips on Raising Your Retail Standards:

"Awesome" isn't just luck.

• Success is built with intention.

• Stop saying "She's so lucky" and ask what she is doing differently.

Be an intentional leader.

• Plan 90 days ahead like a CEO.

• Learn new skills to grow your shop and confidence.

• Make business decisions that align with your personal and brand values.

Level up your customer's experience.

• 81% of people will leave your store if they think someone else offers a better experience.

• Inconsistent service can drive even loyal customers away.

• Set clear store standards: music, smell, cleanliness, staff behavior—it all matters.

Your Next Steps:

• Write down the quote: Awesome is never accidental.

• Pick one small area in your business and raise the bar.

• Ask yourself: how can I be more awesome today?

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 136: Annual Planning that Fills Your Life Buckets

Episode 143: How to Plan and Host Successful Events in Your Retail Shop

Episode 144: How to Create a Customer Journey Map

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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:

I want you to ask yourself this question: "Why wouldn't I be checking in mid-year with my retail business? Is there something I am avoiding? Am I making excuses like I'm 'too busy'?" (Your words, not mine!)

As a retail coach, it's my job to not only teach you the steps you need to take to do a midyear check-in in your retail business but also encourage you to get it done. Trust me: this will make a huge difference in your mindset and in how you run your beautiful business.

In this episode I'm walking brick and mortar retail shop owners through a simple yet powerful midyear retail planning process to stay on track for profitability and growth. You'll learn what you need to look at during the review, how to adjust business goals, and how to build a profit plan to keep you flexible yet focused for the rest of the year. (Inner Circle members have access to a quarterly retail planning checklist to review your progress!) Whether you've hit your targets or need to pivot, this actionable framework will help you identify "creep" in your operations, celebrate your wins, and map out the next six months with confidence.

"Don't plan for 'fine.' Plan for awesome. Your business deserves more than mediocre." - Wendy Batten

Timestamped Topics:

• 03:00 – Flexibility vs. Excuses: Adjusting Your Goals

• 05:00 – Spotting and Reining in "Creep"

• 07:00 – Setting Real Profit Planning Numbers

• 09:00 – Month-by-Month Financial & Inventory Review

• 12:00 – Profitability Check: Are You Pushing String?

• 13:00 – Celebrating Achievements & Acknowledging Progress

Key Takeaways to Help with Your Midyear Planning Check In:

• Use a quarterly retail planning checklist to audit goals, revenue, and operations (Inner Circle members: We have one in the mid-year planning masterclass!)

• Identify and correct "creep" in profits, inventory, team standards, and operations.

• Use a profit plan template and plug in your numbers, margins, and expenses. This will help you to make sure you are on track to meet your financial goals. (This is a GAME CHANGER and we have one in the Profit Planning Micro-Masterclass for Inner Circle members.)

• Conduct honest month-by-month reviews of P&L, balance sheet, and personal workload.

• Always celebrate wins—acknowledging progress fuels motivation for the next quarter.

Your Next Steps:

First of all, thank you so much for listening. I would love it if you would subscribe & leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Join the conversation on Instagram! Follow along with me at @wendybatten.biz and share with me your biggest midyear wins. I'd love to hear what you are most proud of in the first 6 months of 2025!

Inner Circle members have access to the Midyear Biz Review Masterclass and the Profit Planning Masterclass and Profit Calculator. Make sure you are logged in!

If you aren't already a member of the Retailer's Inner Circle, you can join us anytime - the doors are open!

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 89: Money Talk & Mindset with Profits First Coach April Stroink

Episode 112: How to do a Midyear Review and Check-up

Episode 169: 5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Profit Margins (and Why You Should!)

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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:

Running a retail business isn't just about WHAT you sell—it's about WHO you bringing together in your retail store.

In this heartwarming and wisdom-filled episode, Cadence Kidwell of Fuzzy Goat (a yarn store in Thomasville, Georgia) shares how she's built a thriving business rooted in connection, creativity, and community support. Whether you're a seasoned retailer or just starting out, Cadence's story will inspire you to think big, act bravely, and build something meaningful.

Key Takeaways from a Retail Yarn Store Owner:

• Cadence shares her inspirational journey from university teacher to yarn shop owner

• Why community is the most important product she sells

• How she built a strong, trusted team that loves the store like it's their own

• Creative marketing tools she swears by (like countdowns and story-driven videos)

• How events like Local Yarn Shop Day bring huge in-store traffic

• Why offering benefits like retirement plans helps retain staff

• The importance of mentorship, coaching, and always learning something new

"We're not just selling yarn. We are selling connection and whimsy." - Cadence Kidwell

About Cadence and Fuzzy Goat

Prior to opening Fuzzy Goat, Cadence Kidwell obtained a PhD in Creative Writing and designed a certificate program for students to develop cultural competencies while working at Florida State University. She was happy with that career but began dreaming of her own shop. She decided that she could either steady-on into the last decade of university life or she could join the makers' life by building a business from a rough-worn building & filling it with beautiful yarns made by strong women.

Luckily for Thomasville (and the rest of us) she chose the latter. Fuzzy Goat is truly an independent business with over 90% of our merchandise created by other independent women makers. Fuzzy Goat creates a space where conversation across generations and life experiences is valued and sought after.

Follow along with Cadence and Fuzzy Goat here:

Website | Instagram | Facebook Use code SHOPTALK to get 11% off your order through Fuzzy Goat's website!

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 183: Fine Tuning Your Business Operations with Business Strategist Gwen Bortner

Episode 244: Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy of Loopy Wool

Episode 259: Behind the Counter: Building a Unique Retail Shop with Heart with Amy & Chris Hart

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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:

Let's make this summer your most joyful and productive yet, without the burnout.

In this episode, I'm sharing how to embrace a "Summer of Ease" while still keeping your retail business humming along behind the scenes. Whether you're a brick-and-mortar owner in peak tourist season or experiencing a slower Q3, this one's for you.

We're trading hustle for harmony by leaning into three core pillars: (1) Fun (yes, you need it!), (2) Rest (not a reward, but part of your job), and (3) Momentum (because Q4 is coming and we need to be ready!)

How to Create Ease This Summer:

• Schedule your calendar and your team's through September

• Pre-plan promotions, social content, and email marketing

• Reuse great content from last year (no one remembers your July 2023 meme, it's fine)

• Humanize your brand with softer summer content (think beach reads and mojito recipes)

• Hand off live sales, store tours, or event planning to your team or guest hosts

• Let go of the guilt and get off your phone and POS app while you're away

It's time to drop the "shoulds," my friend. Let's get to work. Until next week, cheers to joy, freedom, and profits.

"Watching your POS like a hawk is not making things sell faster." -Wendy Batten

Your Next Steps

Get out your calendar and do some planning! And let's connect on Instagram! What are your top tips for planning your summer of ease? I'd love to hear from you. Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram, or just jump into my DMs.

If you're a member of the Retailer's Inner Circle, check your monthly playbooks. They're packed with done-for-you email prompts, promotional calendars, and content ideas to make this even easier.

And if you aren't…join my supportive community of retailers in the Retailer's Inner Circle! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out HERE.

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 82: 5 Steps to Simplify Your Content Planning

Episode 143: How to Plan and Host Successful Events and Promotions in Your Retail Shop

Episode 253: Mastering Social Selling

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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:

Let's talk about the "summer slowdown," shall we?

In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, we're flipping the script on the summer slowdown and showing you how to use any quiet time as a powerful CEO reset. Whether it's organizing your back-end systems, strengthening customer relationships, or proactively planning for Q4, this season can be one of your most productive if approached with intention - and I'm showing you how.

We're diving into practical and mindset-driven strategies for using this seasonal dip to build momentum, clarity, and energy. Learn how to schedule a "money date" with your financials, declutter your tech stack, and plant the seeds for a thriving holiday season.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why a slower season can be your biggest strategic advantage

• How to use your CEO date to make smarter inventory decisions

• Ways to deepen customer relationships and build brand loyalty

• Quick backend system fixes that can boost efficiency

• How to use the summer to prep for a stress-free Q4 and holiday season

• Why mindset matters more than momentum during seasonal dips

Your Next Steps

If you found this episode helpful in any way, I would LOVE if you would share it with a fellow shop owner who might need a mindset shift! Then tag me on Instagram (@wendybatten.biz) with your summer reset plans. I'd love to hear from you!

And then …join my supportive community of retailers in the Retailer's Inner Circle! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out HERE.

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 115: How to Tame All of Those Great Ideas

Episode 116: What to Do if It's Slow: Summer Strategy Series

Episode 216: Create a Summer of Ease for Your Retail Shop

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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 struggle to schedule and/or keep your CEO dates with yourself? Running your shop like a true CEO isn't just for big-box retailers: it's for independent creative retail shop owners just like you - trust me on this. If you've ever felt like your business is dragging you down; if you KNOW you aren't spending your time on the things you should be…this episode is for you.

Not sold on why CEO time is crucial? Unsure of where or why to start? Wondering what you should be doing during your CEO date? Listen in now!

Takeaways for Indie Retailers

• Hard seasons are normal – Obstacles come with owning a business. What matters is how you move through them.

• Stop playing small – Don't let busy work keep you from doing the real CEO work that moves the needle.

• You can't scale with hustle and heart alone – Aligned action is what brings joy, profit, and freedom.

• Take a pause and plan – A regular CEO date with yourself brings clarity and confidence.

• Want help? – I'm hosting a Quarterly CEO Planning Day on June 10th. Come plan alongside other retailers who get it! More info below.

What to Focus on During CEO Time

• Strategic planning (not just goal setting)

• Reviewing what worked and what didn't

• Understanding your income streams and profit margins

• Creating intentional marketing, not last-minute campaigns

So what is your next step? Join me for a productive afternoon of planning out your next 90 days in my Retailer's CEO Planning Day on June 10th! This is a new program I'm offering. We will meet together in a small group and spend an afternoon doing some intensive quarterly CEO-level planning for your business. It comes with pre-meeting vision planning prompts, 4 hours of a focused planning session with me and a small group, 2 weeks of support from me, and a retail success toolkit to help you every step of the way! Save $100 by registering by June 6th. See you there!

Need more?

Join me for my first Retailer's CEO Planning Day on June 10th! This is a new program I'm offering. We will meet together in a small group and spend an afternoon doing some intensive quarterly CEO-level planning for your business. It comes with pre-meeting vision planning prompts, 4 hours of a focused planning session with me and a small group, 2 weeks of support from me, and a retail success toolkit to help you every step of the way! Save $100 by registering by June 6th. See you there!

Or…join my supportive community of retailers in the Retailer's Inner Circle! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out HERE.

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 33: The CEO Date: A Non-Negotiable Habit is Key to Creative CEO Success

Episode 88: Retailer Success Series: Making Pivotal (and scary) CEO Decisions with Retailer Melanie Kolb

Episode 133: Retailer Success Series: Community, Culture, and CEO Mindset with Amy Cseh

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 dream 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

Join Wendy's CEO Planning Session for Retailers

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!