Rooted in Retail

Ana, the owner of Pilar Boutique, joins us along with business and life coach Ronda for a special 'Retail Therapy' segment. 

Ana opens up about her fears of business failure and the challenges of leading a retail team, despite being in the industry for 17 years. The discussion highlights the importance of visualizing success in order to push past negative thoughts when they start to interfere. 

Ronda offers insights on internal sourcing, maintaining a positive mindset, and how to handle business growth while staying true to one's values. 

This episode provides valuable advice for retailers on staying resilient, finding joy in their work, and strategically managing their businesses amidst uncertainties.

[01:11] Ana's Retail Journey

[02:07] Facing the Fear of Failure

[04:29] Exploring Identity Beyond Business

[07:55] Navigating Economic Uncertainty

[10:36] Harnessing Creativity in Adversity

[13:49] Building a Vision for Growth

[26:21] The Importance of Intimacy in Business

[33:48] Final Thoughts and Ana's Advice for Retailers

Get all of the resources on our website at: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/overcoming-fears-and-visualizing-success/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

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Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

On this week’s episode of After the Show, I’m sharing my biggest takeaways from my recent conversation with Melodie van der Baan from Max Retail.

We had an eye-opening discussion about something every retailer needs to know: how to implement systems to manage inventory, improve operations, and support growth.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, having the right systems can make or break your business. Melodie also inspired me to embrace innovation and take bold action on ideas that can truly make a difference.

Plus, I’ve got some tips on how to leverage AI to build these systems. Let’s dive in!

[00:44] Why systems matter in retail

[03:50] How to use AI to create systems

[05:15] Build a business by solving a problem

[06:07] Don’t be afraid to take action on your idea 

Get all of the resources on our website at: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/using-ai-for-your-retail-systems/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

If you’ve got inventory gathering dust and want to turn it back into cash, this episode is for you. Whether you dream of building a retail store that you can one day sell, pass down, or simply take pride in, you’re in the right place.

Today, I’m joined by Melodie van der Baan, the co-founder of Max Retail, who’s here to deliver a masterclass on independent retail in less than an hour. Melodie, a seasoned retailer herself, created Max Retail to help you offload inventory you just can’t seem to sell—and yes, you get paid for it!

In this episode, she explains how Max Retail works and how it can help you streamline your inventory management. Melodie also shares her journey from being a road rep to running a successful boutique, and she’s full of insights on how to build a sustainable and profitable retail business.

So, if you’re ready to learn how to move that unsold inventory and pick up some valuable retail strategies along the way, I can’t wait for you to dive into this episode!

[02:18] How Melodie started out in retail as a road rep

[03:21] Pro tips for deciding which inventory to get rid of

[06:55] How Max Retail sells your excess inventory 

[08:40] How they determine the price for your products

[11:36] Episode Sponsor: EVOLVE 2025

[12:22] The two best-selling product categories on Max Retail

[22:14] Action steps to grow your business while handling daily operations

[25:20] Melodie's advice for retailers who are afraid to outsource

[27:59] Episode Sponsor: Retail Mavens

[29:44] One guide every retailer needs to create empowered and productive teams

[35:06] How retailers can put their long-term goals first

[39:58] Melodie's resilience round

Get links to all the resources on our website at: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/turn-unsold-inventory-into-cash/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

In this bite-sized episode of After the Show, I reflect on my inspiring conversation with Ladianne and Sheri from WoolTribe. It touched on the supply chain, sustainable products, and the value of building meaningful relationships in the supply community.

What really stuck with me was the idea of being a patient business. I realized I needed to hear that, and maybe you do too. In this episode, I’m getting honest about what this concept means to me and how I’m applying these lessons to my own business. 

Patience is a gift that can open up opportunities. But when you have big dreams and so much you want to accomplish, it’s easy to get impatient. Tune in to hear how I’m embracing patience in my journey—and how it might help you in yours.

[00:39] Why patience matters in business

[01:24] Patience can be a challenge for me too

[03:52] Trust the process and set realistic goals 

[07:56] Why the comparison trap makes us feel impatient

[12:25] My friend's advice that showed me the value of pausing

Get all of the resources on the website at https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/why-patience-will-pay-off/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

I’m so excited for you to hear today’s episode with Ladianne Henderson and Sheri L. Osborne of WoolTribe. Our conversation was truly inspiring as we dive into how they started their company and the mission that drives their work.

We discuss the importance of building strong relationships with the people and companies you source from and why this is so meaningful. We also explore some great marketing angles and the role of blockchain technology in retail—what it is, why it might be useful for products, and how it could impact the future.

Ladianne, the co-founder and Creative Director of WoolTribe, is a Tory Burch fellow and one of only 400 TKGA certified master knitters in the world. Sheri, also a co-founder, serves as COO and CFO, bringing a strong background in business development and nonprofit operations.

Their passion for artisanal, responsibly made American fashion really shines through, and you can feel their dedication. Get ready for a fascinating conversation!

[04:00] How Ladianna and Sheri launched a made-in-America yarn and fiber store

[08:12] What inspired Ladianne and Sheri to pursue their current path in fashion production

[11:43] How prioritizing relationships over a traditional supply chain influences the quality of their products and business practices

[18:43] The biggest challenges they’ve faced in staying true to their principles

[21:47] How family history influenced WoolTribe's values and products

[24:31] Why the WoolTribe site is on the blockchain and what that means

[29:20] What makes their work so fulfilling

[32:47] Episode Sponsor: Join us at EVOLVE

[34:22] Ladianne and Sheri's resilience round

Get all of the resources on our website at https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/how-wooltribe-built-a-mission-driven-brand/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

Welcome to the first episode of Retail Therapy, a series of six episodes where we give therapy to retailers. 

In this episode, I introduce you to our therapist, Ronda Renee, who will provide guidance and support for retailers facing various challenges. 

Ronda shares insights from her extensive experience as a business and life coach, providing valuable advice on alignment, overcoming impostor syndrome, and the importance of internal motivation. 

And I get into the hot seat to get some therapy of my own! I share my personal struggles and goals, seeking advice from Ronda to break out of holding myself back. 

This episode sets the stage for future sessions with other retailers facing their own unique challenges. Get ready to dive deep and discover new ways to align your soul with your business.

[00:00] Introduction to Retail Therapy

[01:35] Understanding Divine Coordinates

[03:05] Meet the Therapist: Ronda Renee

[09:19] Ronda Renee's Success Stories and Transformations

[20:04] Alignment and Misalignment Between Business and Soul

[21:34] The Illusion of Control

[22:07] Letting Go of Attachment

[24:00] Crystal's Personal Experiences of Misalignment

[25:08] Finding Your Unique Path in Business

[26:25] The Importance of Authenticity

[29:08] Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

[37:26] The Role of Imagination and Potential

[44:19] Upcoming Guests and Future Topics

Get all of the resources in the show notes on our website: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/align-your-soul-with-your-business/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

We’re back with a brand new episode of After The Show! Today, I’m excited to explain why we took a summer break and the strategy behind bringing it back—and these are ideas you can use for your own store.

In this episode, I’m thrilled to share some key takeaways from my recent chat with Willerett Flowers. We talked about the importance of embracing imperfections in business and how focusing on details can truly make a difference.

So let’s dive into why After The Show is back, why testing and data analysis are so important, and two strategies from Wilrett Flowers that can help you succeed in retail!

[00:03] Why After the Show is making a comeback

[01:03] The power of testing and analyzing your marketing data

[07:00] Allow yourself to do things messy in business

[11:10] How retailers can leverage attention to detail

Listen to my interview with Willrett Flower Co.  https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/the-magic-of-attention-to-detail-and-hospitality-with-willrett-flower-co/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

Today, I’m thrilled to chat with Kat and Mary Grace, the incredible sisters behind Willrett Flower Company, a full-service flower and gift shop in DeKalb, IL. Their store is often described by customers as a "ray of sunshine," and they’ve worked hard to create a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming space in the heart of downtown.

In this episode, we dive into their journey of building a thriving retail shop while navigating personal challenges. We cover everything from their approach to hospitality and attention to detail to how they engage with the community and make the most of social media.

Kat and Mary Grace also share the tough lessons they’ve learned and what it truly means to offer exceptional customer service. Plus, get the scoop on their exciting store expansion and rebranding! This conversation is packed with inspiration and fun—don’t miss it!

[05:17] Unique ways to make sure every customer feels special

[09:15] The little details that define the customer experience

[13:47] Ways that Kat and Mary Grace get involved with the community

[17:06] Episode Sponsor: SCALE with Crystal Media

[23:08] How facing major life obstacles and balancing motherhood has influenced their business approach

[31:38] Social media strategies that helped Willrett Flower Co. drive more engagement and sales

[37:50] Their goals for expanding the store to a new location

[39:18] Kat and Mary Grace's resilience round

[39:22] Best business book

[39:36] Best retail technology

Get all of the details on our website at https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/the-magic-of-attention-to-detail-and-hospitality-with-willrett-flower-co/

Get Facebook and Instagram Ads Management with Crystal Media. Learn more https://www.crystalmediaco.com/facebook-and-instagram-ads-management/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

Welcome to a milestone episode of Rooted in Retail—episode 100! I’m thrilled to have you here for this special celebration.

In today’s episode, we’re doing things a bit differently. My COO, Pauline Blasetti, will be turning the tables on me as I take on the Resilience Round—the rapid-fire Q&A I usually ask my guests. You’ll get to hear my answers at the end of the episode.

But I’ve also gathered some of my favorite responses from past guests to the question: What do you think the future of independent retail looks like? You’ll hear insights from ten amazing guests, all packed into this episode.

Plus, I’ll be sharing what’s next for Rooted in Retail. We’ve got some exciting new projects lined up, and I’m confident they’ll make a big impact on you and your store.

Before we dive in, I just want to say thank you—for listening, for being part of this community, and for making this journey so rewarding. It means the world to me. So, without further ado, let’s jump into episode 100 of Rooted in Retail!

[01:37] Rooted in Retail Merch Winners

[02:25] Celebrating 100 episodes of Rooted in Retai

[05:00] Why independent retailers need this key strategy to outperform big box chains

[06:14] Crystal's call to action for retailers

[08:3]7 Stay Tuned: A new Rooted in Retail segment you won't want to miss

[11:45] How Crystal plans to bring Rooted to Retail to life with in-person experiences

[13:47] Special Announcement: After the Show returns in September

[16:43] What makes independent retailers special with Dane Cohen

[17:57] How retailers can stay relevant with Jacqueline Snyder

[18:50] Why there's never been a better time to own a business with Wade Tonkin

[19:48] The biggest advantages independent retailers have over big box stores with Susan Negen

[20:51] Embrace the mindset of "I don't know what I don't know" with Paul Erickson

[22:31] The demand for independent shops is increasing with Karen Walsh

[23:51] The power of automation in the future of retail with Thad Price

[25:14] What will keep customers coming back to small business retail with Beth Rich

[25:49] Why retailers should take care of their regulars with Matt Harris

[27:32] How can we engage with customers in a different way with Kelly Bennett

[28:43] Episode Sponsor: Crystal Media Co. Ads Management Services

[29:56] Crystal Vilkaitis' Resilience Round

Get links to all the episodes and resources on our website at https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/the-future-of-independent-retail-with-crystal-vilkaitis/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454

Holy guacamole! Today's episode is packed with so many actionable tips for social media and holiday marketing, you’ll need to listen twice. We’re diving deep into open house planning and Pinterest strategy, so grab your pen and paper!

Today, I’m joined by the incredible Steph Bechard. While she’s no longer on the Crystal Media team, she remains a forever friend of ours. I’m so excited that we could come together for this special Episode 99 to answer three burning questions from retailers just like you.

In this episode, we’re taking on call-in questions from our listeners and we cover it all. They called in, asked a specific question, and we're giving a lot of strategies and ideas and tactics to answer those questions today. 

Whether you’re looking for tips on promoting events through social media or want inspiration for your Q4 marketing plan, we cover a ton in this episode. Let’s dive in!

[02:34] Question 1: How can I start using and leveraging Pinterest for my crafters who often go there for crafty ideas?

[04:19] Why retailers need to be verified merchants on Pinterest

[05:22] What’s the best percentage split between inspirational and sales-driven posts?

[10:04] How to use keywords on Pinterest

[15:49] Question 2: How can I come up with a new creative format for our annual holiday event in November?

[15:53] Crystal brainstorms a Christmas Wonderland carnival event for Q4

[22:46] Episode Sponsor: EVOLVE 2025

[23:30] What retailers should consider when creating social media content to promote events

[28:54] Three quick tactics for event promotion on social media

[34:23] Question 3: How retailers can use social media to bring shoppers into their holiday events

[37:35] How to leverage live rooms on Facebook and Instagram with other shops

[40:43] Why you should talk about your past events in your content

[41:33] The power of creating buzz outside the store to bring customers in

[43:12] How staggered sales can help maintain steady foot traffic throughout an event

[47:23] Crystal's ideas for a holiday giveaway

Get all of the details on our website at: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/social-media-tactics-to-shine-this-holiday-season/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch! https://www.bystadium.com/us/en/stores/rooted-in-retail-30474/S820473454