In this episode, Michelle shares a completely different style of Retail Whore Podcast episode recorded live from the Seattle Mart, where seasoned retailers shared their best advice for new store owners. From learning your numbers and building smarter markdown strategies to creating stronger customer experiences and merchandising with intention, this episode is packed with honest conversations and real retail wisdom.

Michelle and Susan also continue the conversation from the road as they dive deeper into store layout, storytelling through merchandising, fixtures that actually support your brand, and why trying to be everything to everyone can hurt your business. Plus, Michelle reflects on a personal Mother’s Day trip, balancing work and life on the road, and the emotional realities of family relationships while building a business.

We have linked all of the buyers who were kind enough to share their advice in this episode so you can go support and follow their stores:

• Jasper – Vashon Island Pharmacy and Gift Store
• Beth Rich – Mix It Up Home, Gallery & Gifts (Coeur d'Alene, Idaho)
• Rochelle – Edit an Olive & Bloom Company (Snohomish, Washington)
• Marie – Marie’s Boutique & Marmalade Fresh Clothing (Coeur d'Alene, Idaho)
• Alicia – Paper Delights (Burien, WA)

What’s Inside:

• Why knowing your numbers and creating a markdown strategy matters
• How merchandising actually starts during the buying process
• The importance of creating a customer experience through layout, fixtures, scent, sound, and storytelling

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