The retail landscape for natural products has changed dramatically, especially since the pandemic pushed more consumers toward Amazon and online shopping. How can independent health food stores not just survive but thrive in this environment? 

Jake Kivico, representing the third generation of family ownership at Nature's Finest in Phoenix, Arizona, reveals their strategic approach to building customer loyalty despite digital competition. After joining the family business full-time in 2021, Jake quickly realized that competing with Amazon on its terms wasn't viable. Instead, Nature's Finest developed a multi-faceted strategy centered around carefully selected brand partnerships and an innovative approach to private labeling.

What makes their approach unique is the creation of multiple private label brands through different manufacturing partners. Unlike most retailers who develop a single house brand, Nature's Finest operates several distinct private labels, addressing the misconception some customers have about house brand quality while ensuring customers can only purchase these products at their stores. Since most shoppers ask for specific supplements rather than brands, this strategy creates genuine loyalty by offering exclusive products that can't be found on Amazon.

Listen as Jake shares how they began this journey, the manufacturers they partner with, and how they've expanded their private label offerings over time. Whether you're a retailer looking for new competitive strategies or a brand wanting to understand the retailer perspective, this conversation offers valuable insights into building lasting customer relationships in the age of Amazon. Ready to rethink your approach to product exclusivity and customer loyalty?

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

A personal tragedy transformed Kristina Hall's life when her father was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer during her senior year of college. This devastating news sparked a journey into the world of nutrition and supplements as Kristina witnessed how dramatically food choices and targeted supplementation could improve quality of life during cancer treatment. This awakening led Kristina and her husband Brian to eventually launch True Grace, a supplement company built on uncompromising principles.

What makes True Grace unique isn't just their commitment to "meaningful ingredients at effective doses," but their remarkable timing—quitting secure jobs to launch a business just weeks before the pandemic changed everything. Yet this apparent misfortune became their advantage, forcing methodical development while providing unprecedented access to industry veterans who were suddenly accessible by phone. Their persistence through supply chain challenges demonstrated the unwavering commitment to values that defines their brand today.

Kristina's experience as a new mother revealed a critical gap in the supplement market. Standing bewildered in the children's vitamin aisle, she realized this overwhelming experience mirrored how most consumers felt about supplements generally. This insight drove True Grace to pioneer innovative children's products, including the only Kids Multi containing clinically studied Lutamax for blue light protection and focus—addressing modern parents' screen time concerns while delivering essential nutrients. Their ingenious probiotic+D3 stick packs solved "gummy fatigue" by combining two crucial supplements in one easy-to-administer format.

Beyond product innovation, True Grace exemplifies environmental leadership through regenerative agriculture partnerships and sustainable packaging. They've helped certify Wisconsin's first ROC farm and removed over 13,000 pounds of plastic from Indonesian waters. For retailers seeking to attract younger demographics, especially mothers, Kristina's social media strategies and staff education approach offer a blueprint for success in natural retail. The True Grace story demonstrates that principled business practices can create both exceptional products and meaningful environmental impact—proving that doing good and doing well remain perfectly compatible goals.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Imagine running your natural products business without the constant financial anxiety that plagues so many entrepreneurs. What if cash flow wasn't a mystery, and paying yourself was non-negotiable instead of an afterthought? That's the promise of Profit First, and our guest Ron Saharyan breaks down exactly how this revolutionary system works.

According to Ron, co-founder of Profit First Professionals, a staggering 83% of small businesses operate check-to-check, with owners often foregoing their own salaries just to keep the lights on. This creates a destructive cycle where entrepreneurs pour everything into their businesses while getting little in return. The Profit First methodology flips traditional financial thinking on its head by changing the formula from "Sales - Expenses = Profit" to "Sales - Profit = Expenses." This simple but profound shift ensures business owners pay themselves first and manage expenses within what remains.

The beauty of the system lies in its simplicity and psychological effectiveness. Using separate bank accounts for different purposes—profit, owner's pay, taxes, and operating expenses—creates clear guardrails that prevent overspending. When revenue comes in, it's immediately allocated according to predetermined percentages, removing the temptation to spend money that should be set aside. Ron recommends starting with just 1% allocations and gradually increasing them, making the system accessible to businesses at any stage.

For natural products businesses facing unique challenges around ingredient quality and educational marketing, Profit First provides the financial clarity needed to stay true to your mission while remaining sustainable. Instead of compromising on quality when margins get tight, you can make strategic decisions about pricing, positioning, and education that protect both your values and your bottom line.

Ready to transform your relationship with your business finances? Start small with just one or two additional bank accounts and experience the immediate relief and empowerment that comes with taking control of your cash flow. Your natural products business—and your personal financial health—will thank you.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Are you tired of letting perfectionism hold you back from achieving your business goals? This episode dives deep into the idea that striving for perfection can often lead to stagnation rather than success. Join us as we unpack the common challenges that many business owners face when battling their inner critic and fear of failure. Through engaging stories and insights from marketing expert Seth Godin, we delve into why embracing imperfection could be the key to unlocking real progress.

We explore practical strategies to overcome the paralyzing urge to perfect every detail before taking action. You’ll hear valuable tips about prioritizing consistency in your marketing campaigns and understanding when it’s okay to let go of perfection. We also discuss legal compliance issues in promotional events and how to manage those without becoming overwhelmed.

Ultimately, this episode is all about empowering you to take bold steps—regardless of imperfections. It’s time to stop waiting for everything to be “just right” and start implementing those ideas you’ve shelved. Listen in for real-life success stories that showcase the benefits of jumping into action, even when the outcome may not be flawless. Let’s foster a community of business owners who encourage each other to keep moving forward, even if that means taking imperfect steps along the way. Join us, subscribe, and engage as we work together to reach more people and change more lives!

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Looking to revolutionize your retail strategy and create an unforgettable shopping experience? Discover the secrets of sensory marketing as Tina and Amanda explore how scents and music can transform consumer behavior in ways akin to a luxurious spa visit. From the increasing allure of adaptogenic and botanical-infused beverages reshaping traditional drinking habits to innovative practices like "dry January" and "dry June," this episode serves up fresh insights into how retailers can tap into these burgeoning trends to captivate consumers and boost sales.

Imagine a retail environment that not only attracts customers but also nurtures its employees. We discuss how the thoughtful use of coffee substitutes, essential oils, and music can invigorate shoppers and lead to more sales. The conversation dives into the world of retail psychology, exploring how understanding the preferences of both employees and customers is crucial for creating a welcoming and successful retail space. By aligning with their desires, businesses can enhance engagement and satisfaction across the board, making everyone’s shopping experience more enjoyable and meaningful.

Want to build a thriving community around your retail space? Learn about innovative strategies like offering prepaid cards for healthy meals and adopting a four-day work week to improve employee wellness and customer engagement. We unpack the benefits of financial wellness programs, community partnerships, and family-oriented initiatives like meal kits that reinforce stress-free, shared experiences. This episode equips retail business owners with actionable insights that align with evolving market trends and consumer expectations, ensuring a commitment to caring for both employees and customers while fostering long-lasting community connections.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Discover how to transform your workplace into a sanctuary of safety, engagement, and productivity with insights from our special guest, renowned business writer and speaker Mike Michalowicz. Mike, known for his groundbreaking books like "Profit First" and "All In," shares his expertise on compassionate leadership and the art of building unstoppable teams. With a blend of humor and practical advice, Mike introduces a refreshing perspective on proactive management that can enhance peace of mind and boost productivity.

We then shift gears to examine the dynamics between corporate America and small businesses, exploring how intimate settings can foster genuine connections and support among team members. Through personal anecdotes and the symbolic presence of a cherished office tree, we discuss how aligning employees with their strengths can transform their experience from mere job satisfaction to a fulfilling pursuit. The F-A-S-O framework comes into play here, highlighting how fit and passion can revolutionize the way we perceive work.

As we challenge the conventional notions of human potential, this episode uncovers innovative strategies for leaders to unlock hidden abilities within their teams. From workshops that stimulate curiosity and desire to the importance of creating a comprehensive safe environment—physically, emotionally, and financially—we leave no stone unturned. We delve into the intricacies of profit-sharing and motivational dynamics, all while maintaining a light-hearted approach with Mike's entertaining stories, including his unexpected success in matchmaking. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for leaders eager to optimize business performance and workforce management.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Sarah Burden, a fervent advocate for natural supplements. Discover how a single pivotal encounter reshaped her views on health and beauty, fueling her passion for natural remedies. Sarah delves into the significance of proving the efficacy of natural products through human clinical trials, shedding light on how these rigorous tests can win over skeptics and secure credibility within the medical community.

We also tackle the complexities of quality control, exploring the meticulous art of clinical research for dietary supplements. Sarah discusses the hurdles of manufacturing placebos for products like greens powders and tinctures, and how creative problem-solving ensures these placebos remain inactive. With insights drawn from Dr. Greger's "How Not to Age," we guide listeners on identifying trustworthy supplements, emphasizing the importance of scrutinizing labels and certifications to avoid the pitfalls of inauthentic products sold on platforms like Amazon.

As we venture into marketing strategies within the supplement industry, Sarah shares innovative approaches that harness customer feedback to drive engagement. Learn how capturing user-generated content during product trials can transform participants into brand advocates, while third-party certifications combat counterfeiting and ensure consumer protection. With Sarah's infectious enthusiasm and deep insights, this episode promises to equip you with valuable knowledge and a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving world of natural products.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Ever wondered how intuition can play a role in product selection for health stores? Join us in an enlightening discussion with Ed Jones from Nutrition World in Chattanooga, as he unravels his meticulous approach to curating high-quality products on his shelves. Discover the unique blend of intuition, social media insights, and rigorous certificates of analysis that Ed employs to ensure only the best make it to his customers. He reveals the importance of transparency, understanding a brand’s ethics, and the critical role of customer feedback in maintaining trust and integrity in the natural products industry.

Shifting gears to holistic healthcare integration, we explore the transformative benefits of a higher protein diet, focusing on responsibly sourced animal-based products. Learn how to navigate the transition from seed oils to healthier natural fats like tallow and olive oil. Ed shares valuable insights on bridging natural products with conventional medicine, highlighting the necessity of a collaborative team approach in healthcare. With challenges like finding practitioners who embrace this model, Ed emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation to deliver the best care possible.

Imagine a wellness center where various health practitioners unite under one roof, offering a comprehensive health approach. Ed guides us through the vision of building such a community, addressing the challenges and rewards of collaboration with independent practitioners. Gain strategies for developing referral relationships and building credibility and trust within the healthcare sector. With Ed’s expertise, discover the untapped potential of reaching new clients who may be unaware of the services provided by nutrition stores, opening up opportunities for growth and outreach.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Unlock the secrets to mastering pricing strategies in the natural products industry with insights from our expert guests, Chase Ballard and Micah Corrigan. Discover how adopting MAP pricing as a standard can revolutionize your market approach and keep your customers coming back for more. We'll explore the common pitfalls of sticking to full MSRP pricing and how this can skew consumer perceptions, making in-store shopping seem more expensive than online giants like Amazon. Learn from other industries' pricing models and gain actionable strategies to refine your pricing tactics and strengthen your market position.

Join us as we reveal the blueprint to building customer loyalty and trust through impactful loyalty programs and transparent practices. We discuss the art of turning customers into loyal "trustomers" with significant incentives and the vital role of training staff to engage effectively with customers at checkout. For retailers hesitant to move away from MSRP, we provide guidance on collaborating with partner brands to offer competitive everyday prices. Trust and transparency are key as we navigate these challenges, fostering strong relationships with partner brands for sustainable growth.

Finally, we dive into innovative promotional strategies that can transform retail success, highlighting the power of BOGO deals and other promotions in boosting sales and brand visibility. While aggressive promotions attract new customers, they also present challenges like brand-switching. We stress the importance of balancing promotions while maintaining customer trust and pricing integrity. By collaborating creatively with brands, retailers can channel enthusiasm and support to build a loyal customer base, ensuring sustainable growth in a competitive market. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your business with proven strategies and insights.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.

Unlock the secrets of dietary supplement regulations with our esteemed guest, Asa, a seasoned regulatory consultant with a background in clinical herbalism. Discover the intricacies of FDA oversight in the supplement industry and learn why the notion that dietary supplements are unregulated is a myth. Asa's journey from herbal studies in Boulder to advising companies on maintaining compliance provides unique perspectives and invaluable lessons for anyone navigating this complex field.

Gain a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) and its role in shaping the herbal and dietary supplement industry. We explore the distinction between structure/function claims and disease claims, and how these affect marketing strategies. Delve into the evolution of labeling and marketing regulations, and consider potential legislative updates that could further refine the guidelines set by DSHEA over the past three decades.

Lastly, we tackle the challenges retailers face in complying with regulatory guidelines, particularly in the context of influencer marketing and digital platforms. Learn about the risks associated with unsubstantiated claims and how innovative tools like Apex Compliance software are helping companies stay in line with regulations. Through practical advice and expert insights, this episode equips businesses with the knowledge to market their health products ethically and legally.

Connect with us:

Facebook

Linkedin

Email: [email protected]

About Amanda Ballard

Amanda has worked in natural products marketing in the retail setting since 2016 and has a great understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that retailers in this industry face. More than anything, she wants this industry to continue to boom and believes much of that success hinges on the ability of retailers to do well in their businesses and market their products effectively.

About Tina Smith

Since 2014, Tina has worked with multiple natural products businesses, discovering how to market their CBD products online, without having their payment processor shut them down, to letting customers talk about their health issues those products have helped them solve. She knows first hand how experts like you offer the best products and a superior customer experience, that is why she is committed to helping you find an easy way to grow your natural product business.