Retail War Games

In this episode, we sit down with Blake Brown to uncover how True Classic has redefined men's apparel by shifting the conversation from product to emotion. Instead of competing through trends or complexity, True Classic built its explosive growth on a simple but powerful idea: men deserve to feel confident, comfortable, and seen.

Blake breaks down the brand's approach to fit, accessibility, and emotional connection — and why these elements have allowed True Classic to dominate one of the most saturated categories in retail. From understanding real male body types to designing clothing that supports confidence rather than insecurity, True Classic is rewriting the rules of modern menswear.

This conversation goes beyond fabric and fit. It explores the psychology behind why men buy, what they respond to, and how a brand can earn loyalty by speaking to identity rather than just style. If you're building a brand or want to understand the new era of men's branding, this episode is a masterclass.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Bill Brady — entrepreneur, storyteller, and the mind behind two of the most influential kid‑tech brands in the country. We dive into the origins of Gab and Troomi, the mission to keep kids safe in a digital world, and what it really takes to build a company that challenges an entire industry. Bill opens up about fundraising, supply chain battles, parenting in the smartphone era, and why technology should be a tool, not a tyrant. It's a conversation about leadership, purpose, and the future of tech for the next generation.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Afleck from HULU's Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to unpack the real story behind her unexpected rise from wedding videographer to viral creator. Jennifer opens up about motherhood, creativity, and the moment a single TikTok video changed everything — taking her from posting for fun to building a powerful personal brand with over a million followers.

We dive into the business behind going viral: how she chooses the right brand partnerships, the role her manager plays in scaling her career, and why authenticity is the foundation of her influence. Jennifer also shares her perspective on TikTok vs. Instagram, the future of creator platforms, and what it truly takes to build trust with an audience in today's digital landscape.

If you're interested in the creator economy, brand strategy, or the human side of going viral, this conversation delivers real insight and impact.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Chris Willis to explore what it really means to stay curious as a leader in a world shaped by AI, data, and constant change.

Chris shares his unconventional journey—from editorial cartoonist and Pulitzer-winning newsrooms to startups, design, and speaking on AI—revealing why the most valuable leaders aren't the ones with linear paths, but the ones willing to learn from anyone, anywhere. They talk about humility as a leadership advantage, building trust inside teams, and why creative thinking still matters more than ever in a data-driven world.

This conversation is about seeing opportunities others miss, choosing the right rooms to grow in, and understanding that learning never stops—no matter how experienced you are.

If you're building, leading, or rethinking what leadership looks like in the age of AI, this episode will change how you see your own path.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

In this episode, Crystal Maggelet—CEO of FJ Management and one of the most influential leaders in modern retail—joins us for a conversation that's equal parts inspiring, real, and unforgettable.

Crystal shares the remarkable story behind her family's legacy, from the early days of Flying J to leading Maverik's explosive growth across 20+ states. We dive into how she thinks about leadership, purpose, family, and building companies that last for generations.

From self-service gas stations in the 60s to acquiring Kum & Go and scaling to 800+ stores, Crystal reveals the mindset that's guided her through every chapter—rooted in heart, purpose, and big-vision thinking.

We talk entrepreneurship, resilience, raising driven kids, exploring the world, outdoor adventures, and the real work behind becoming one of the most respected operators in the country.

If you're building anything—your career, your company, or your legacy—this conversation will light you up.

Enjoy the episode. And as always… adventure starts here.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

In today's episode, we explore the remarkable journey of DemerBox—a story born on the remote islands of Survivor, where a sound engineer's ingenuity sparked a product unlike anything else in the outdoor world. What began as a simple solution in the wild soon captured the attention of Zac Brown, whose passion for music and the outdoors helped elevate the brand to new heights. We dive into the craftsmanship and rugged engineering that make DemerBox more than a speaker—it's a companion built to protect your gear, power your adventures, and deliver music wherever life takes you. From overcoming the challenges of scaling a U.S.-made product to shaping its identity through festivals, hunting camps, and countless real-world experiences, this is the story of a brand that wasn't just created—it was forged by adventure, community, and an unwavering belief in building something that lasts.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Shawn Hendrix, a trailblazer who's turned setbacks into stepping stones for success. Shawn opens up about the risks he took, the challenges he faced, and how faith, grit, and determination guided him through the toughest moments.

💡 What you'll take away from this episode:

• How to face and overcome personal and professional setbacks.

• The power of taking calculated risks.

• Tips for staying resilient and motivated when life gets tough.

• Real-life lessons on turning obstacles into opportunities.

If you're looking for inspiration to push forward, no matter the odds, this episode is for you.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

What does it really take to lead — and keep winning — over four decades in business?

Mark Goldstone, a 40-year CEO, investor, and turnaround expert, shares the hard-earned lessons behind building, fixing, and scaling companies across industries. In this episode, he breaks down the frameworks, mindset, and "CEO Playbook" that have helped him guide brands through change, uncertainty, and growth.

For founders, CEOs, and retail leaders, this is a rare inside look at the mindset required to lead, adapt, and win — no matter the market.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

When David McKillips stepped into Chuck E. Cheese in 2019, the brand was broken — outdated animatronics, declining guest experience, and over a billion dollars in debt. What followed was one of the most ambitious turnarounds in entertainment history.

In this episode, David shares how he led a full-scale transformation: remodeling hundreds of locations, redefining the brand's purpose, and repositioning Chuck E. Cheese as a global entertainment powerhouse. From launching new characters and digital content to expanding into retail, licensing, and international markets, the strategy was clear — fix the brand first, then build the empire.

If you're scaling a legacy brand, navigating a turnaround, or exploring omnichannel growth, this conversation is packed with insight, vision, and practical lessons.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast

Ben Capell, Managing Director at Peterson Ventures, shares what makes a brand investable — from founder grit to ecosystem advantage. We talk strategy, hero products, and how early-stage capital can shape the future of retail.

One of my favorite lines from this episode: "The players win the games — we're just here to coach."

If you're building, scaling, or investing in consumer brands, this episode is packed with insight you don't want to miss.

🎧 Tune in now and let us know what stood out to you.

🎙️ Hosted by Jeremy Brockbank | Retail War Games Podcast