We’re joined by Holly Delaune, owner of Firebrand Marketing, to unpack the essentials of modern retail marketing. From branding and website optimization to digital advertising that drives real sales, Holly shares actionable strategies to help retailers elevate their presence both online and in-store. Whether you’re looking to refresh your website, refine your brand identity, or reach more customers through paid media, this conversation will leave you with practical tips and next steps. Listen in....

WESA Retail Roundup October 27, 2025:

• Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning
• Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group
• Guest: Holly Delaune of Fire Brand Marketing | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
• Presented By: Western English Sales Association

Chapters:

01:34 - Understanding Brand Marketing

10:06 - The Importance of Focus Groups in Branding

17:35 - Marketing Strategies for Retailers

25:50 - Transitioning Marketing Strategies in the Retail Industry

27:30 - The Rise of a Teenage Entrepreneur

Takeaways:

• The importance of strategic marketing in driving both online and offline store traffic is paramount.
• Understanding your brand's identity is essential before proceeding with marketing strategies and campaigns.
• Utilizing customer data effectively can significantly enhance targeted advertising strategies and improve return on investment.
• Consistency in branding across all platforms is crucial for customer recognition and trust.
• Engaging with your audience through social media, particularly through stories, can bolster brand visibility and customer interaction.
• Regular website updates and content creation are vital for sustaining search engine optimization and attracting traffic.

Merchandising tack is part art, part systems and when you nail both, average sales, add-ons, and loyalty all jump. Along with Meegan Robinette from Mackey USA, we’ll unpack small-footprint, high-impact tactics for every part of a retail store that turn browsers into customers. Listen in...

WESA Retail Roundup October 15, 2025:

• Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning
• Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group
• Guest: Meegan Robinette, owner of Mackey USA | Facebook | X | Instagram
• Presented By: Western English Sales Association

In this episode of Wisdom by WESA, we sit down with John Lunn, Vice President of Morris Media Enthusiast Group and Chief Revenue Officer of the Nashville Stampede. With leadership across some of the most influential titles in outdoor and equine publishing, John brings a unique perspective on how the publication space is evolving. From trends in media and storytelling to his experiences as an exhibitor at the WESA Trade Show, John shares insights on building partnerships, meeting the needs of today’s readers, and the exciting projects shaping the future of equine media.

• Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen
• Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist
• Guest: John Lunn, Vice President, Morris Media Enthusiast Group and Chief Revenue Officer, Nashville Stampede

In today's discussion, we delve into the intricacies of bookkeeping, an endeavor that many small business owners find daunting yet essential for financial clarity and growth. Our guest, Terry Bork, a seasoned bookkeeper and profit growth strategist, talks about the critical importance of proper financial management and the common pitfalls that entrepreneurs encounter. We explore the necessity of implementing sound bookkeeping practices from the outset, as well as the value of professional assistance in navigating the complexities of financial reporting. Listen in...

WESA Retail Roundup September 29, 2025:

• Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning
• Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group
• Guest: Terri Bork of Abacus Gal | Facebook
• Presented By: Western English Sales Association

Time Stamps:

04:42 - Transitioning to QuickBooks Online

13:32 - Inventory Management Mistakes

19:21 - The Importance of Financial Clarity for Business Owners

22:20 - The Benefits of Virtual Bookkeeping

At just 16 years old, Mason is the founder and driving force behind Vaquero Outdoors, a polished lifestyle brand inspired by the untamed spirit of the Texas Hill Country. We’re honored to have Mason here today to talk about his journey, brand philosophy, and what’s next for Vaquero Outdoors. Let’s dive in!

• Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen
• Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist
• Guest: Mason Delaune (exhibitor) and Holly Delaune (mom)
• Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

We sit down with photographer and creative strategist Gregg Carnes, founder of Truh’st, to explore how retailers can leverage photography to connect with customers, elevate storytelling, and drive sales. With a philosophy built around “Visuals that connect. Stories that carry weight.”, Gregg shares practical tips retailers and social media managers can apply right away to create imagery that inspires trust and sets brands apart in today’s competitive marketplace. Listen in...

WESA Retail Roundup September 23, 2025:

• Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning
• Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group
• Guest: Gregg Carnes | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
• Presented By: Western English Sales Association

Today, we chat with Claire Porter about the emotional storytelling behind her equine photography, the design process of Art~Scarves, and how art becomes a companion. From limited-edition prints to limited-edition scarves, Claire shares the evolution of her creative process and the new ways audiences connect with her art.

• Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen
• Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist
• Guest: Claire Porter, Claire Porter Photography
• Website: https://claireporterphotography.com/pages/skarf-art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claireporterphotography/

Join us for a practical and inspiring Retail Roundup session with western fashion influencer and content creator Kyli Hibbard (@shopwithmecowgirl). Fresh off the WESA Trade Show floor, Kyli will share quick, creative content ideas that retailers can use right away to boost engagement and showcase their products on Reels, TikTok, and Shorts even with a busy schedule. Listen in...

WESA Retail Roundup September 8, 2025:

• Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning
• Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group
• Guest: Kyli Hibbard | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
• Presented By: Western English Sales Association

Chapters:

00:47 - The Power of Short Form Video in Retail

11:11 - The Importance of Hooks and Consistency in Video Marketing

19:22 - The Shift Towards Authenticity in Content Creation

23:22 - Navigating Short Form Video Strategies

27:25 - The Rise of YouTube and Its Impact on Content Creation

Takeaways:

• The significance of short-form video lies in its capacity to foster genuine connections between businesses and consumers.
• Engaging with audiences through authentic content enhances relatability, resulting in increased customer loyalty and interest.
• Understanding the nuances of various social media platforms allows businesses to tailor their content effectively for optimal reach.
• Consistency in posting is paramount; it trains customers to expect and engage with content regularly, thus enhancing brand visibility.

Today, we’re joined by Kelly Munro of Cascada, winner of the Most Innovative Product Award at the WESA Trade Show. Cascada is reshaping equine care through digital tools and education. Alongside Cascada, Kelly also showcased Lighthoof, a proven mud management solution. As a first-time exhibitor, she brings fresh insights on innovation and connecting with the retail community.

• Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen
• Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist
• Guest: Kelly Munro
• Website: https://www.lighthoof.com | https://cascadaequine.com

Today we are going to learn about loans for small businesses.  When should you, how should you and the pitfalls to look for. Joining us Buck Harris, he has spent a lifetime helping small businesses find the right loan. A very informative 30 minutes for anyone in a small business. Listen in...

WESA Retail Roundup August 26, 2025:

• Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning
• Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group
• Guest: Buck Harris
• Presented By: Western English Sales Association

Chapters:

00:58 - Understanding Small Business Loans

14:00 - Understanding Business Financing: Good Debt vs Bad Debt

21:44 - Understanding Loans and Financial Management for Small Businesses

29:21 - Navigating Small Business Loans and Financial Strategies

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding loans for small businesses, focusing on when and how to seek financing.
• It highlights that credit scores are significant, yet they are not the sole determinant of loan eligibility for small business owners.
• The discussion reveals that having outside income can significantly improve a small business owner's chances of securing a loan.
• Listeners are advised to prepare their financial documentation meticulously to ensure a smoother loan application process.
• The podcast underscores the critical distinction between good debt and bad debt in the context of business financing.
• It is noted that small business owners should begin the loan process proactively rather than waiting for the last minute before critical financial needs arise.