Customer Centric Retailing Podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by Joseph , Head of eCommerce at AS Colour , as he shares how the brand is scaling globally while balancing both B2B and D2C on a single eCommerce platform. Joseph talks about his journey from product design into eCommerce leadership and how deep product knowledge shapes better digital experiences. He explains how AS Colour manages global distribution, inventory plann...

In this episode, our special guest, Mitch Dodd , President of Kintec Footwear + Orthotics , discusses how to build a retail business that successfully blends human insight with technological precision.  Mitch shares his journey from the shop floor to the C-suite and how Kintec’s commitment to expertise, innovation, and customer care drives growth across its 20 locations. This episode further explo...

In this episode, Sid Arigapudi , VP of Technology at 5.11 Tactical, discusses the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in retail. He is an advocate for a business-first, test-and-learn approach, showing how AI can empower leaders to experiment, make faster decisions and drive innovation without requiring deep technical expertise. The conversation highlights practical applications, from i...

In this episode, Geraldo José Z Do Prado, CEO of Casa Prado, discusses the brand’s approach to sustainability, responsible sourcing, and innovation. He shares how the company balances its long-standing commitment to ethical practices with modern technology to stay competitive in the fashion industry.  From building strong supplier relationships to incorporating AI-driven customer experiences, Casa...

In this episode, Alex Tallman, Director of Retail Experience at Fleet Feet, offers insights into the company’s approach to customer experience and technological innovation. Alex reflects on his career and the importance of understanding the needs of both in-store associates and franchisees to drive success. Additionally, he discusses how Fleet Feet integrates advanced technology, such as FitID 3D...

In this episode of, we’re joined by Jenni Homer, Director of Retail & Ecom at Nanso Group, as she takes us through the exciting ways AI and data analytics are reshaping retail. Jenni shares how Nanso is embracing an omnichannel strategy, with a special focus on their direct-to-consumer (DTC) approach powered by Shopify. We learn about how AI is helping Nanso better understand customer behavior...

In this episode with our esteemed guest Armen Momejian, Director of AI Initiatives at ALDO Group, we discussed how AI and RFID technologies are revolutionizing the retail industry. Armen shared insights into how Aldo is using RFID to improve inventory accuracy and enhance operational efficiency. We also explored how AI is being leveraged to optimize order fulfillment, helping retailers better pred...

In this episode, Akash Samtani shares his expertise on the evolving world of omnichannel retail, highlighting the key challenges and incredible opportunities retailers face today. From seamlessly connecting physical stores with online platforms and centralized inventory management to navigating the shifting dynamics between B2B and D2C strategies, he provides a roadmap for achieving a truly integr...

In this episode, Karrie Helm, Sr. Director of Stores at EVEREVE, discusses how EVEREVE is transforming the shopping experience by merging the convenience of online shopping with personalized in-store service. She explains how EVEREVE utilizes BOPIS (Buy Online Pick Up In Store) and BORIS (Buy Online, Return In Store) to offer a frictionless, customer-first experience. Karrie also shares how the br...

In this podcast episode, our special guest, Stephan Jacob, addresses the challenges retailers encounter in adapting to evolving consumer expectations and the necessity of leveraging technology to maintain a competitive edge.  He shares innovative approaches to improving customer service, emphasizing the integration of AI and analytics to gain deeper insights into customer preferences. Additionally...

In this podcast episode with our esteemed guest Natalia Jablonka, we dive into the world of omnichannel retail, digital commerce and inventory planning. Natalia shares her insights on creating a seamless customer experience across both eCommerce and physical stores, emphasizing the importance of leveraging customer data to enhance interactions.  We discuss the challenges and opportunities in integ...

In this episode, Breanna Moreno, VP of Customer Experience at True Classic, takes us behind the scenes of the brand’s retail expansion journey and breaks down their thoughtful approach to store placements. She highlights the pivotal role of KPIs in driving and refining customer experiences.  Furthermore, we delve into the synergy between physical stores and eCommerce, explaining how their strategi...

In this episode Cameron Baty discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a successful retail business from the ground up. Cameron shares insights into maintaining product quality, the importance of customer service, the complexities of managing both physical stores and an online presence. He also highlights the increasing significance of sustainability in the retail industry and the efforts...

In this episode, Johan Munck, CEO of Polarn O. Pyret, discusses modern retail practices, focusing on omnichannel retailing, circular economy and sustainability. The conversation highlights how integrating these principles not only benefits the environment but also strengthens brand loyalty and customer engagement, driving both ecological and economic value in today's retail market. Furthermor...

In this episode, our guest Darko Tushev explores the vital role of Order Management Systems (OMS) in modern retail. Learn about the importance of breaking down silos between online and physical retail operations, promoting leadership alignment on customer-centric values.  Darko addresses challenges like meeting heightened customer expectations for fast delivery and seamless returns, advocating for...

In this episode, Joe Lopardi, Director of Retail at Trina Turk, shares his insights on the evolving retail landscape, highlighting the critical role of store associates in fostering customer relationships and internal team collaboration. Learn about incentivization to pooled commissions, hosting events, engaging with local communities and more strategies for driving sales in the lifestyle retail s...

In this episode, our special guest, Amy Carr, delves into the evolving landscape of retail and customer engagement strategies. We discuss the dynamic shift from traditional retail to digital platforms, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities presented by merging online and offline shopping experiences.  She highlights the importance of personalized customer journeys, social media, post-purcha...

In this episode, Jeff Fisher, the VP of Retail at Blenders Eyewear, shares his insights on various aspects of the retail industry from significance of customer experience, emphasizing the role of store associates in building trust and facilitating online sales. He also speaks on inventory management strategies and the benefits of using Shopify POS for digital-first retailers and more. Gather valua...

In this episode, our esteemed guest, Neely Powell, CEO of Charleston Shoe Company, discusses her love for brick-and-mortar retail and its emphasis on personal connections and immersive experiences. With 24 years of experience, she contrasts in-person interactions with online shopping, emphasizing the unique community-building aspect of physical stores.  Neely's approach goes beyond sales, as...

In this episode, our special guest, John Prothro, President and CEO of Foot Solutions, provides a deep dive into the brand's customer-centric retail model. With an emphasis on service over product, Foot Solutions prioritizes personalized orthotics and footwear solutions, backed by a commitment to customer care and education. Prothro shed light on the brand's innovative use of technology...

In this episode, our special guest, Nate Skiver, the founder of LPF Spend Management, delves into the intricacies of omnichannel strategies like Ship From Store, managing relationships with logistics partners, and optimizing store fulfillment and shipping strategies for fashion retail brands. Additionally, he touches on the challenges that retailers face when implementing Ship From Store and possi...

In this episode, our special guest, Jamie Schisler, Chief Comfort Officer at Upwest, delves into the unique challenges faced when initiating a brand within a well-established corporation. Additionally, the episode touches on the role of brick-and-mortar stores in retail and the evolving landscape of digital-first brands. Jamie Schisler has more than two decades of experience in merchandising, stra...

This episode’s special guest, Nick Nedev, Digital Product Manager for BJ’s Wholesale, discusses the value of inventory explainability and how omnichannel owners leverage this concept to effectively manage their business. How is inventory explainability defined and how do omnichannel owners use this concept to manage their business? What Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) should be employed to measu...

This episode’s special guest,  Matthew Lafone, President of The Athlete's Foot, shares key insights and tips on how retail brands can best navigate changing consumer behavior and approach sustainability in retail today. How can retail brands best uplift underserved communities and promote social justice? What's the key to enduring success amid times of change in retail? In what ways can...

This episode’s special guest,  Louise du Toit, President at Ganni, tackles the subject of sustainability in retail and discusses how brands can best minimize their impact on the environment. What does sustainability in retail mean? How many retailers can actually call themselves sustainable, and what are the roadblocks and limitations we need to consider? How can brands make conscious choices in t...