Creative Shop Talk with Wendy Batten

With host retail coach Wendy Batten

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

In This Episode:

Join me for a 4-hour intensive January Retail Reset on January 14th! This is a small workshop where we will be laser-focusing on your business. Feel like you might need to revisit your goals and get clear on what you need to do in 2025? Join me! All of the details are here.

If you are dreading making a plan for your retail shop in 2025, I have something for you: Design Your Best Retail Year Ever is available for purchase as a stand-alone workshop (or free for you if you are a member of The Retailer's Inner Circle program)!

This workshop has been named a favorite by so many of my clients. It's truly an invaluable resource that every retail shop owner can use - whether you love to plan or dread it. Grab it today, or join the Retailer's Inner Circle and it's included in your membership - along with a "pantry" full of other masterclasses and resources for you to grab when you need them.

The 6 Areas You Should Focus on This Year

1. Building a stable foundation: There are three pieces to business stability: (1) business viability/profitability (2) your customers and their changing needs (3) you and your team

2. Embracing retail excellence: Mediocrity is not going to cut it in 2025. "Excellence" doesn't mean luxury, it means paying attention to details in all aspects of your business.

1. Earning your customers' loyalty: Your customers want to be seen and understood. What strategies do you have in place to create customers for life?

2. Be a superhero in your community: How can you be a town cheerleader, connector, and community advocate?

3. Exude confident leadership: Believe in what you are creating. What are you spending your CEO time on?

4. Visibility is key: Position your brand to be seen as the "go-to." Can your customers shop online? Are there revenue streams you can add?

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

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

Episode 237: Retailer Success Series: Cindy's Journey to Building a Thriving Bead Store

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

This year has flown by, and as we bid farewell to 2024, it's time to reflect on the lessons, wins, and challenges that shaped our journeys. In this episode, I'm sharing powerful takeaways from coaching clients, my own experiences, and inspirational quotes/insights that can inspire independent retailers to make 2025 their best year yet.

Get ready for mindset shifts, marketing tips, and practical strategies to simplify, amplify, and thrive!

If you are dreading making a plan for your retail shop in 2025, I have something for you: Design Your Best Retail Year Ever is available for purchase as a stand-alone workshop (or free for you if you are a member of The Retailer's Inner Circle program)!

This workshop has been named a favorite by so many of my clients. It's truly an invaluable resource that every retail shop owner can use - whether you love to plan or dread it. Grab it today, or join the Retailer's Inner Circle and it's included in your membership - along with a "pantry" full of other masterclasses and resources for you to grab when you need them.

Some Takeaways:

• The Power of "How Can I" Energy: Shift from "I can't" to "How can I" and see the shifts.

• Simplify and Amplify: Why B+ work and "Done is better than perfect" can help you focus on what truly matters. Give yourself permission to let it be easy - whatever "it" is!

"A confused mind never buys."

• Mindset Makeover: Embrace the courage to course-correct, drop words like "busy," "just," and "yeah, but…" from your vocabulary and get out of your own head.

• Build a Trusted Brand and Use the Power of Invitation: Move beyond selling and yelling. Learn how to create a customer experience they'll adore. Bring them into your business.

• Financial Wisdom: "It's not the money you make; it's the money you keep." Get intentional about your cash flow and profitability.

"You can't be upset about the results you didn't get from the work you didn't do."

• "Fix Problems Now": Don't let problems get bigger or manifest into something worse than when it started.

• Consistency Compounds: Stay visible by updating your SEO keywords, your Google profile and your socials. Be sure to stay relevant if you want to succeed in 2025.

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 186: Choose Joy! Reframe Your Mindset and End Your Retail Year Happy

Episode 194: Feeling Stuck? 20 Prompts to Help Flip Your Mindset

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

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:

As an independent retailer, the end of the year is a perfect time to pause, reflect, and plan for the future. In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I'm sharing five powerful questions that can help you evaluate your past year, identify growth opportunities, and set intentional goals for 2025. Whether you're looking to streamline your operations, grow your customer base, or simply realign your business with your values, these insights are tailored to help small business owners thrive.

If you are dreading making a plan for your retail shop in 2025, I have something for you: Design Your Best Retail Year Ever is available for purchase as a stand-alone workshop (or free for you if you are a member of The Retailer's inner Circle program)!

This workshop has been named a favorite by so many of my clients. It's truly an invaluable resource that every retail shop owner can use - whether you love to plan or dread it. Grab it today, or join the Retailer's Inner Circle and it's included in your membership - along with a "pantry" full of other masterclasses and resources for you to grab when you need them.

Episode Highlights:

1. Reflect on Success: Use five reflective questions to assess your year and identify areas of improvement.

• What do I wish I had done better?

• What am I most proud of?

• What am I worried about?

• What do I want to be proud of next year?

• Do my goals align with my vision?

2. Plan with Purpose: Embrace the Design Your Best Year Ever workshop to map out a clear and intentional plan for 2025.

3. Community Matters: Join a supportive retailer network to share insights, get inspired, and stay accountable.

4. Mindset Shift: Replace worry with clarity by addressing concerns directly and creating actionable steps.

"Success is yours, but you have to design it." -Wendy Batten

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 194: Feeling Stuck? 20 Prompts to Help Flip Your Mindset

Episode 197: A Monthly Debrief: A Simple Activity All Retail Shop Owners Should Be Doing

Episode 208: Stack 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:

What kind of business do you wish existed in your community? Jasmine McCue, owner of The Crow's Nest Pantry in Alberta, identified just that and then made it a reality. In this episode, Jasmine shares her inspiring journey of starting the pantry to address her community's needs and how it evolved into what it is today. She shares lessons learned about staffing and planning and the power of using data to drive success.

Listen in to discover valuable insights for independent retailers!

Episode Highlights:

• Small town, big vision: Jasmine describes how she turned a community need into a profitable, beloved store.

• Data-driven decisions: The importance of using sales data to refine inventory and meet customer demand (including an amusing story about Brussels sprouts!)

• Planning saves time and money: How Jasmine leveraged pre-planning to improve profit margins and efficiency

• Staffing lessons: Managing challenges with employees while prioritizing the needs of the business

• Creative marketing: Innovative ideas like partnering with Airbnbs to attract new customers.

"Freedom lies on the other side of hard conversations." -Wendy Batten

Jasmine is an active member of the Retailer's Inner Circle program and is part of one of our Progress Pods inside the group. Join her and other amazing retailers like her in 2025!

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 238: Behind the Counter: Building Community Through Beautiful Spaces with Lisa

Wrixon

Episode 220: Retailer Success Series: How Two Friends Turned a Creative Hobby into a Successful Retail Business

Episode 204: Behind the Counter: Meet Inner Circle Member Jeanne Terrill

About Jasmine and The Crow's Nest Pantry

Jasmine is a pharmacist by trade but her passion has led her on a path to serve her community through opening The Crow's Nest Pantry. She opened her business because she believes everyone deserves access to wholesome bulk food and natural products that they can afford. Their shelves are filled with diverse bulk foods and natural products at competitive prices.

When you shop local, you not only save money but also contribute to the well-being of our planet.

Follow along with Jasmine and The Crow's Nest Pantry: Website | Instagram

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:

What would happen if you built a business centered entirely around what you love and what you believe your community is currently missing? We're about to find out!

In this truly inspiring episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I'm sitting down with Lisa Wrixon, the visionary and CEO behind thestylewell and Lewellyn, two boutique shops in North Vancouver. From her roots in art history to leading retail operations for major brands, Lisa's journey is a masterclass in turning passion into purpose. Discover how she built a thriving business centered on beautiful design, community engagement, and a curated customer experience—all while staying true to her values and vision. If you're an independent retailer looking for actionable insights and motivation, this episode is for you!

Episode Highlights:

• We dig into Lisa's Background: From studying art history to managing merchandising and retail operations for top brands like The Body Shop and Indaba Trading.

• thestylewell Origin Story: A dream sparked by a love for beautiful, curated spaces, culminating in a thriving home decor business in North Vancouver.

• Running Two Shops: Lisa owns thestylewell, focusing on home decor, and Lewellyn, a sister shop for fashion and accessories.

• Building Community: The importance of hosting workshops, events, and pop-ups to engage with the local design and retail community.

• Curating Success: Balancing simplicity, aesthetics, and strong operational practices to create a loyal customer base.

• Biggest Lessons: The value of staying true to your brand while taking calculated risks to grow.

Takeaways for Retailers:

• Invest in your community and prioritize relationships over transactions.

• Curate your offerings with a strong focus on aesthetics and what resonates with your ideal customers.

• Don't overcomplicate operations—simplicity and clarity can fuel success.

• Collaborate and share knowledge generously to foster growth in your industry.

Lisa is an active member of the Retailer's Inner Circle program. Join smart retailers like Lisa inside this program this year.

"I opened a shop for me because I couldn't find what I wanted. Now, I create the need for others." -Lisa Wrixon

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 237: Retailer Success Series: Cindy's Journey to Building a Thriving Bead Store

Episode 217: Best of Retailer Success Series: Simplifying Your Retail Business with Louise McManus

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

About Lisa and thestylewell

thestylewell is curated and owned by Lisa Wrixon, an innovative and dynamic creative professional who relishes in inspiring, delighting and engaging customers. As a lover of all things beautiful, Lisa has years of experience as a residential Interior Designer, wholesale home décor brand strategist and Manager of Retail Operations for leading Canadian Retailers.

But it is her love of all things pretty, that are created with care, and her vision of creating meaningful moments in people's homes that has driven her to open thestylewell. thestylewell aims to provide beautiful decorative pieces, hand selected by Lisa with the intent to enhance a living space, be admired and desired, shared or possessed for oneself.

Follow along with Lisa, thestylewell and Lewellyn : thestylewell Website | Lewellyn Website | thestylewell Instagram | Lewellyn Instagram

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 need inspiration navigating your role as an accidental entrepreneur? This episode is for you! Like many of us, Cindy Boissonneault of Poco Inspired in Winnipeg didn't intend on putting on a CEO hat and running a retail business. In this episode, Cindy shares her inspiring journey from overcoming stress-induced challenges to becoming a successful retail entrepreneur.

With no prior retail experience, Cindy built her bead store into a thriving business by mastering inventory management, focusing on what works, and building strong systems. Tune in to hear her strategies for transitioning into a true CEO role, creating a sellable business, and achieving retail excellence—all while staying connected to her customers and community.

In this episode, Cindy and I chat about:

• Her 20-year journey from overcoming stress-related illness to owning a thriving bead store.

• How buying an existing retail business kickstarted her entrepreneurial career.

• The value of niching down: Focusing on what sells best.

• Transitioning from hands-on retail to strategic CEO leadership.

• Key insights into creating a sellable business with strong systems and processes.

• Practical strategies for inventory management and using metrics to make tough decisions.

• Collaboration with competitors: Why rising tides lift all ships.

• Planning secrets for reducing stress and driving success.

Takeaways for All Independent Retailers:

• Understanding your unique selling point and investing in expertise.

• Developing systems (SOPs) that make your business scalable and sellable.

• Using metrics to guide inventory and revenue decisions—don't let emotions dictate choices.

• Building community, both in-store and with competitors, to boost customer loyalty.

• Stepping into your CEO role: Plan ahead and delegate effectively.

Cindy is an active member of the Level Up Mastermind and the Retailer's Inner Circle program. Join smart retailers like Cindy inside either of those programs this year.

"If coming to my shop today wasn't the best thing our customer did, then we haven't done our job." -Cindy Boissonneault, Poco Inspired

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

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

Episode 218: Retailer Success Series: Community Marketing Strategies with Millie Blackwell

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

About Cindy and Poco Inspired

Cindy Boissonneault was a part-time employee at her bead shop prior to purchasing it over 10 years ago. She is an independent spirit who describes herself as a little bit country and a little bit rock and roll. Prior to owning Poco Inspired, a bead store in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Cindy's background included Business Administration, Human Resources, and Events Management.

Follow along with Poco Inspired: Website | Instagram

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:

Don't sit on cash. This time of the year we want to move inventory OUT. Let's make sure you don't have any extra inventory left after the holidays. Let's also optimize how much you can get for what you do have and let's turn it into cash before the end of the holidays! In this episode, I'm sharing practical, effective tips to help independent retailers move slow-moving or excess inventory. I'll tell you how to leverage bundling, flash sales, and other simple promotional strategies to clear stock and improve holiday sales.

• Optimize Inventory Levels: Regularly assess your stock to ensure you're not overstocked on items that aren't moving.

• Set a Clearance Timeline: Establish a plan for holiday decor or seasonal items to avoid post-holiday clutter.

• Bundling Products: Combine slow-moving items with popular ones to create attractive themed bundles.

• Create "Last Chance" Sections: Designate a specific area in your store for final sale items to draw attention.

• Use Flash Sales and Events: Go live or send emails to promote limited-time offers that create urgency.

• Exclusive Discounts for Loyalty Members: Reward your loyal customers with early access to deals.

• Gift With Purchase (GWP): Offer a free gift to customers who spend over a certain amount to clear out smaller stock.

• Host a Live Sale: Engage customers by showcasing products directly, ideal for highlighting overlooked items.

• Mystery Bags & Stocking Stuffers: Surprise and delight customers with mystery items to encourage impulse buys.

• End-of-Season Blowout: Schedule an annual or biannual clearance event to keep stock fresh and avoid storing unsold items.

"We don't want to box up money. Keep your inventory moving and in front of customers." -Wendy Batten

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 104: Tight on Cash Flow? Let's Turn Your Old Inventory into Cash for You

Episode 203: Mystery Bags: A Simple Retail Marketing Promotion

Episode 232: Earning Your Customers' Support and 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:

Make 2025 the best year ever in your retail business! In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I'm sharing how to do exactly that. I'll share actionable steps for setting goals, vision-storming, and creating a strategic marketing plan. Whether you're a planner or not, this episode is packed with easy tips to ensure you are ready to hit the ground running in 2025. If you like this episode but need a little more, you can grab my on-demand Design Your Best Retail Year Ever on my website. Let's dive in!

1. Looking Back to Plan Ahead: Reflect on your business's performance over the past year to identify what worked and what didn't.

2. Vision Storming: Craft a clear vision of what you want your business to achieve in 2025, focusing on growth, freedom, and profitability.

3. Set Realistic Goals: Develop SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely) goals to align your vision with actionable steps.

4. Create a Marketing Strategy: Design a marketing plan that matches your revenue goals and targets new customer visibility and engagement.

5. Prioritize Your Team & Systems: Evaluate the support you need and implement systems that will help you reach your goals smoothly.

6. Write out your 1-5 BIG Vision goals: for the year on one page and keep it close.

"A better year starts now. If you want to go from good to great, or fine to better, this is how we do it." -Wendy Batten

Here's what I want you to do this week. Commit to creating a plan, then grab the Design Your Best Retail Year Ever workshop, and schedule time to work through your business goals. And of course, you're always welcome to join us in the Retailer's Inner Circle where we dig into this stuff even more! All of my courses are available at no additional cost to all members of the Inner Circle.

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

Episode 82: Five Steps to Simplify Your Content Planning

Episode 136: Coffee Chat Breaks with Wendy: Annual Planning That Fills Your Life Buckets

Episode 234: Simple Shifts to Boost Your Bottom Line This Holiday Season

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:

Want to increase profitability in your retail shop this holiday season? Let's talk about how! I'm chatting all about how to make that bottom line number BIGGER in this episode. It's not about revenue - it's about what stays in your pocket after all the bills are paid. I'll walk you through some simple, practical changes that will help you make more profit this season without overwhelming yourself.

1. Profit vs. Revenue: We've got to stop chasing that top-line revenue number like it's the only thing that matters. What we really want is profit—what's left after you pay for everything that makes your business run.

"Revenue is vanity. Profit is sanity." -unknown

1. Easy Pricing Tweaks: One quick win for you—try raising your prices by 3-5%. Don't panic! Small increases can make a huge difference in your margins without customers feeling like prices went up.

2. Trim Your Operating Expenses: Take a good look at where your money is going. Is there something you can negotiate, cut, or adjust? Things like shipping costs, credit card fees, and even your phone plan can often be negotiated down with a little effort. (But be sure not to cut expenses that are making you money or that you are gaining value from!)

3. Think Percentages, Not Dollars: When you focus on making small percentage changes, like reducing expenses by just 1%, you'll start seeing big results over time. It's all about those small wins adding up!

Here's what I want you to do this week: Take a walk around your shop and really look at your pricing. Is there an opportunity to nudge things up just a bit? Next, review your expenses line by line and see where you can make a tiny cut that won't affect your business but will boost your bottom line.

If you're ready to dive deeper into increasing your profits, I've got a Best Year Ever workshop and a three-part Holiday Profits Challenge waiting for you at wendybatten.com. Let's get you making those simple changes that will bring in more profits without the stress. And of course, you're always welcome to join us in the Retailer's Inner Circle where we dig into this stuff even more!

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

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

Episode 184: Holiday Sales Tips from Seasoned Shop Owners

Episode 191: Retail Growth Through Small Steps

Episode 205: Workshops & Classes: Added Income 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 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

With host retail coach Wendy Batten

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

In This Episode:

Are you thinking of selling or expanding your retail business? Think that's not for you? Never say never! Either way, it's important to prepare for the unexpected - and that's exactly what we'll be discussing in this episode. We need to be building brands that are sellable.

As a retail coach, I've helped countless retailers through these phases. I've identified four critical areas you need to review to ensure your business is in top shape for opportunities as they arise.

1. Solid Systems

   • Document operational processes (think recipe cards for everything!)

   • Create living documents for your team to reference

   • Ensure systems can be scaled to a new location

2. Financial Health

   • Keep organized, clean books—no messy finances

   • Use tools like QuickBooks or Xero

   • Make sure your business is profitable and cash flow is clear

3. Brand Strength & Reputation

   • Consistently deliver on your brand promise

   • Monitor your reputation in the community and online

   • Conduct regular brand audits

4. Email List

   • Grow and nurture your email list—it's an asset you own

   • Don't rely solely on social media for customer connections

Are your wheels turning? What's on your to-do list after listening to this episode? Where can you improve your sell-ability? Let's continue the conversation in my DMs on Instagram (@wendybatten.biz) or join my email list!

Related podcasts we think you'll like:

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

Episode 118: How To Create Loyalty and Amazing Customer Experiences with Guest Expert & Author Shep Hyken

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

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!