Secondhand Sessions

Save thousands of dollars operating your business at no upfront cost? It sounds like a tall tale, but on this episode of Secondhand Sessions , I'm diving into the data to show you exactly how it’s possible. I'm joined by Marcus Brodin from Future Energy Solutions for a deep dive into energy efficiency for thrift stores and nonprofits. Full disclosure: This isn't a sponsored segment or...

Happy New Year! I’m kicking off 2026 with a raw, solo session recorded from the front seat of my car, looking at the doors of our brand-new 44,000+ sq. ft. ReStore. This episode isn't just an update; it's a response to everyone who says "it can't be done." From spam emails telling me this podcast will fail, to industry consultants telling me my sales goals have "no prece...

This special live podcast session, recorded in front of an audience of 200 Large ReStore operators, features Dwayne Spencer, CEO & President of Memphis Habitat for Humanity. Join us for his powerful call to action for executive leaders to fundamentally rethink the role of their retail operations. Dwayne and the host BJ Breish unveil how the Habitat ReStore is evolving from a mere revenue gener...

Are you ready to revolutionize your nonprofit thrift operation? Buckle up for an inspiring and insightful marathon session recorded live from the Vendor Hall at the Habitat for Humanity Large ReStore Symposium in Memphis! Join me as I throw out the traditional interview format and take you on a walk-through adventure, interviewing a massive variety of vendors whose cutting-edge products and servic...

All in 10 minutes. In this special solo session, host BJ hits the pause button on the usual interview format for a critical pre-conference primer. The driving theme: while the Large ReStore Symposium (LRS) agenda is packed, its true value lies solely with the people—the listeners and leaders who drive the mission. BJ gets candid about his own journey, detailing the "wonderful, magical world&q...

Thrift leaders, are you ready to drive data instead of trucks? Get ready for a revolution! In this episode, we're announcing a groundbreaking deal with a company that’s harnessing the power of AI and comprehensive software to completely transform the non-profit thrift industry. Forget what you think you know about Resupply—this is a new chapter. We're diving deep into how this cutting-edge...

In this session, we uncover the incredible journey of John Kunzelman, manager of a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and a true pioneer in redefining what thrift truly means. Get ready to be inspired as John shares his leadership playbook for cultivating success far beyond the balance sheet. He'llreveal how he transforms a simple store into a powerful engine for change, from groundbreaking sales s...

In the face of unprecedented obstacles, have you built a team you'd "go to war with"? A team ready to confront any challenge, big or small, with resilience and unity? If you aspire to cultivate such a powerhouse team and are seeking data-driven insights to navigate the complex world of non-profit thrift, then you absolutely cannot miss this epic, vulnerable, and powerful session. Joi...

In this session, Greg Bradley, an expert in the thrift store industry with Recolor (a recycled paint company), shared invaluable insights into the unique world of thrift operations. He "Paints" a clear message: empowering operators is essential for growth. Bradley highlighted the need for thrift store managers to feel equipped and encouraged to make decisions and embrace innovation withi...

In this conversation, John Garton, the Chief Financial and Operating Officer of Habitat for Humanity of South Central New Jersey, shares his journey with the organization, his transition to consulting, and the unique challenges and opportunities within the nonprofit thrift store sector. John emphasizes that for CFOs , looking beyond the numbers is vital to helping operators navigate the challengin...

In this session, BJ Breish interviews Jeff Bridgman, the ReStore Director at Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, delivering a powerful narrative of resilience and community spirit. Jeff recounts his journey within Habitat over the past 11 years and how it's evolved. The conversation powerfully showcases the extraordinary resilience demonstrated by the team and the broader community as they na...

In this session, James Fuller shares his journey as the manager of the Cheyenne ReStore, detailing the transformation of the store from a struggling operation to a thriving retail success. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement, education, and collaboration with other stores. James discusses various strategies for growth, including operational changes, effective donation management,...

In this episode of Secondhand Sessions, BJ Breish and Jessica Rennard discuss the evolving landscape of the resale industry, focusing on Jessica's extensive experience in secondhand clothing and the importance of sustainability. They explore the challenges faced by thrift stores, the role of technology in inventory management, and the significance of partnerships with nonprofits. The conversat...

In this episode, Bob and BJ discuss the transition from traditional retail to thrift store management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, team culture, and adaptability in the nonprofit sector. They share insights on leadership, employee engagement, and the unique challenges faced by thrift stores, while also highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive work environment and th...

Welcome to Episode 1 of Secondhand Sessions. This marks the beginning of a new podcasting adventure to capture voices and perspectives throughout the Thrift Industry! Join host BJ Breish as they reconnect with an old friend and fellow thrift industry veteran, Josh. Their candid conversation in the broom closet of a future thrift store covers a range of topics, from store real estate and cost-savin...

Welcome to Secondhand Sessions , a podcast dedicated to the non-profit thrift store community. Your host, BJ Breish, brings years of thrifting experience but admits to being a complete podcasting novice, making this a learning experience for everyone. This passion project aims to deliver genuine, unscripted conversations with leaders in the thrift industry, exploring their stories, insights, and v...