Is your brand pouring money into trade shows with nothing to show for it?

In this episode of Retail War Games, we’re talking about why so many emerging brands spend $15K–$20K (or more) on events that lead to zero ROI—and why Pinners Conference is the exception.

You’ll hear why Pinners works, how brands are pulling in $25K–$30K in a single weekend, and how those sales can unlock real retail conversations. We’re breaking down:

• The trade show gamble no one talks about
• What makes Pinners different How to turn consumer sales into retail momentum
• Why now is the time to prep if you're going this year 

Whether you’re just getting started or trying to break into national retail, this episode will help you rethink how and where you spend your time and money.

🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more real talk about what it actually takes to win at retail.

 #RetailWarGames #PinnersConference #EmergingBrands #RetailStrategy #ConsumerFirst #BrandGrowth

CVS Can Make or Break Your Brand | What Every CPG Founder Needs to Know

CVS is one of the biggest retail chains in the U.S.—but getting on their shelves (and staying there) isn’t as simple as sending samples and hoping for the best.

In this live studio session, Jeremy Brockbank shares what really happens behind the scenes with CVS buyers:

• How CVS evaluates brands (and why buyer dynamics matter more than you think)

• What payment terms you’ll face — and why net 30 might not be the full story

• Why shelf space isn’t free — and the hidden costs most brands overlook

If you’re pitching national retailers, this is the blueprint. Watch before you make the pitch.Subscribe for more raw retail insights

🎧 Full episode now streaming

#RetailStrategy #CVS #CPGBrands #RetailCollective #RetailWarGames #VolcanicRetail #ConsumerGoods #CPGInsights

Not everyone has to agree—but everyone has to commit.

We sat down with Ben Capell from Peterson Ventures to talk about how venture capital decisions actually get made behind the scenes. It’s not a vote. It’s not about getting everyone on the same page. It’s about making your case, standing by it, and trusting the people around you to go all in once the decision is made.

We talk about: • Why debate is part of the process • How conviction can outweigh consensus • What real trust looks like inside a winning team • And yes… even a Rudy reference made its way in

This episode is a must-listen if you're a founder raising capital, a leader making tough calls, or just curious how high-stakes decisions actually happen at the top.

🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Andrea Thomas has led at the highest level—Walmart, PepsiCo, and now as CEO of the University of Utah. In this episode, she sits down with Kassi and Surae to talk about the moment early in her career that shaped how she leads today.

They dive into the power of mentorship, leading without ego, and what it really takes to show up for the people you serve.

This conversation is full of insight from someone who’s been in the room, made the calls, and stayed grounded through it all.

Watch the full episode now on Youtube! Youtube Link

Have you heard of influencer whitelisting?

Brandon Doyle, founder of Wallaroo, sat down with entrepreneur and influencer Bubba Page to talk about what actually drives sales.

Brandon shares how Wallaroo runs paid ads through influencer accounts. So you’re not just posting for awareness, you’re pushing real traffic straight to your site. It's one of the most effective ways to turn content into cash.

If you're not doing it yet, you should be. If you're not working with Wallaroo, you also should be!

In this episode, Tyler Howells, CEO of Cozy Earth, discusses his path from musician and surfer to leading a premium sustainable bedding and apparel brand, featured in Oprah's Favorite Things. He shares insights on direct-to-consumer strategies, effective partnerships, and managing global supply chain challenges while highlighting the role of cultural connections in building strong business relationships. 

Nate Randle—2023 CEO of the Year and former Nike and Callaway exec—is now leading Gabb, one of the fastest-growing tech companies for kids and families. In this episode, Nate shares how his upbringing in a single-parent home shaped his mission, how he landed his dream job at Nike, and why he walked away to build something with real impact.

We dive into Gabb’s approach to building safer tech for kids, the launch of Gabb Music, and their newest partnership with Mark Burnett to take the brand to the next level.

It’s a conversation about leadership with purpose, building what the world actually needs, and staying grounded in your "why" as you scale.

Ever wonder how influencers really pick their brand deals? What does it take to get someone like Mayci Neely to say yes?

She goes into exactly what she looks for, what’s an automatic no, and how her fertility journey led to the creation of Baby Mama.

Speed to lead isn’t just a sales tactic—it’s a standard. When a buyer reaches out, the clock starts ticking.

Trey Boyer shared that while at Podium, the bar was clear: respond within 2 minutes. Why? Because speed builds trust—and trust closes deals.

In today’s world, if you’re not answering fast, someone else is. And they’re the ones winning the business.

Swig is everywhere right now—and here’s the woman behind it.

Nicole Tanner built something real while raising six kids. Home life. Mom life. Work life. She’s doing it all—and doing it well.

“When I’m with you, I’m with you.” That mindset shaped everything—and it shows.

👏 #MomTok, this one’s for you.