Wisdom by WESA

Every Montana Silversmiths buckle tells a story and every buckle passes through 26 sets of hands before it reaches its new owner. Montana Silversmiths’ CEO, Jade Opfer, joins us to talk about preserving craftsmanship in an AI-driven world, the people behind the products, and why a brand rooted in the American West continues to resonate far beyond it. Links: Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zi...

Manufacturing consultant Jen Hegeman explores the essentials of white-label and private-label product development, providing actionable advice for brands navigating the complexities of launching their own product lines. WESA Retail Roundup June 25, 2026: Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook grou Guest: Jen Hegeman from Jen X Designs Presented By: We...

For more than 40 years, Schaefer Outfitter has represented the grit, values, and traditions of the American West. What started with a need for better gear for working ranchers evolved into a beloved western brand with an incredibly loyal following. In this episode of Wisdom by WESA, Jason Smith shares the story behind Schaefer's enduring success, the lessons learned from generations of western cus...

Glenn sits down with Rose from Equus Now and Mary from Kerrits to unpack what the Dover Saddlery closures really mean for the equestrian retail industry. They explore how independent tack shops and small to mid-size manufacturers can turn Dover’s liquidation into opportunity through smarter inventory management, omni-channel selling, and stronger vendor–retailer partnerships. The conversation cove...

From attending WESA as a buyer to building a multi-experience western destination, Hamley’s Western Store proves that retail can be immersive, profitable, and community-driven. In this episode, we talk with Katrina Eichner about what happens after WESA and how retailers can turn inventory, events, and experiences into long-term growth. Links: Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact...

What actually makes shoppers stop scrolling, watch, and walk into a store? On this episode of Retail Roundup, we sit down with WESA videographer Chris Johnston of Truthful Studio to talk about the evolving world of video content for retailers. WESA Retail Roundup May 28, 2026: Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook grou Guest: Chris Johnston of Truthf...

As Twisted X prepares to unveil major company news, we sit down to talk innovation, retailer relationships, and why the brand continues to double down on wholesale instead of going direct-to-consumer. From comfort technology to building retailer trust, this episode dives into what’s next for one of the western industry’s most disruptive brands. Links: Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperle...

AI can not be ignored in any aspect of business. Jamie Samples of Yellow Barn Media shares how retailers should be using AI in their operations. WESA Retail Roundup May 14, 2026: Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group Guest: Jamie Samples of Yellow Barn Media Link: Jamie's beginner AI course Presented By: Western English Sales Association Time S...

How do you turn global artisan relationships into a standout retail experience? Amanda Alexander shares how Peyote Bird blends storytelling, sourcing, and smart curation to create collections that truly sell. Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist Guest: Amanda Alexander, Peyote Bird | Instagram | Facebook

From a single family store to a multi-location retail powerhouse, Nathan shares how Wei’s Western Wear blends tradition with modern marketing. We dive into trade shows, social media strategy, and bold ideas shaping the future of western retail. Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist Guest: Nathan Mah - Website

This session explores how mental health shows up in-store and shares practical, approachable ways retailers can better support their teams and customers while staying true to the values of the western community. Listen in... WESA Retail Roundup April 16, 2026: Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group Guest: Taylor Douglas, CEO of Happy Horses | Fa...

From a South Dakota ranch to building Fringe Scarves into a must-have Western accessory brand, Jodi Hendrickson shares how grit, creativity, and storytelling shaped her journey. This episode dives into brand building, industry insight, and thinking beyond the traditional Western retail playbook. Episode Links Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing S...

Owning/Running a retail business while maintaining a life outside of work seems impossible sometimes. Rosemary Staeck of Equus Now joins us to explain how she does it and still rode 2,100 miles in 2025. Equus Now! is a premier equestrian retailer offering a comprehensive selection of high-quality riding apparel, horse tack, and equipment both online and through their flagship destination store in...

From television host to podcast creator and brand collaborator, Kirbe Schnoor has built a career rooted in authenticity and smart decision-making. In this episode, she shares how to evaluate partnerships, grow meaningful connections, and create opportunities across Western media. Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist Guest: Kirbe Schnoor...

Many retailers feel like they’re doing “all the right things” on social media posting regularly, creating content, and even investing in ads yet the results don’t seem to build real momentum. In this session, we’re joined by a marketing strategist from Hawke Media, an award-winning digital marketing agency that has helped thousands of brands grow through data-driven strategies and community-focuse...

From 3D-printed saddle trees to lightweight, waterproof synthetic materials, Abetta Saddles is redefining what modern riders expect from their tack. In this episode, we explore how innovation, international partnerships, and practicality have positioned Abetta as the #1 synthetic saddle brand. Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist Guest:...

We speak with One Source retail display expert Bill Bizeau about how smart in‑store displays—from boot and hat racks to end caps and corrugated fixtures—can boost sales for western, tack, and horse retailers. He covers how to grab shopper attention in seconds, avoid common display mistakes, work within tight space and budget limits, and use branding and storytelling to make both big brands and sma...

From a single Wyoming storefront to national recognition, Lou Taubert shares how authenticity, storytelling, and relentless customer focus built one of the most respected names in Western retail. This episode is a masterclass in legacy branding, community-driven business, and staying relevant without losing your soul. Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Ma...

Sales expert and podcaster Donald Kelly talks about practical sales training for small equine retailers. They dive into role-play as the most effective way to teach associates “what good looks like,” including how to handle the classic “I’m just looking” objection and use micro stories to build trust. Donald explains how to upsell ethically by focusing on solving customer problems, not pushing pro...

What happens when a rodeo ambassador steps behind the brand curtain? In this episode, we sit down with Kaelanne Quinonez of Corral Boots to talk about the leap from industry advocate to brand-side strategist and how storytelling, community, and WESA come together to shape what retailers see next. Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist Gue...

In this post WESA Trade Show episode Glenn highlights some of the new companies and products that he came across in Dallas. Listen in on these seven short interviews and you might find some new products that you can add to your store shelves. WESA Retail Roundup February 5, 2026: Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group 01:30 - Product Highlight:...

For nearly a century, the Mizrahi family has shaped western apparel through craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep commitment to retailers and manufacturers across the industry. In this episode, Lane Mizrahi reflects on his father Roland’s legacy, the evolution of Sidran Inc., and the timeless values that continue to guide their family business. Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Conta...

In this episode, we dive deep into the engine room of a successful retail business: Inventory Management Software. Whether you are running a boutique tack shop, a high-end apparel brand, or a mobile unit hitting the horse show circuit, your inventory is your biggest asset—or your biggest liability. Join us as we sit down with Cathy Donovan Wagner, founder of RETAILMavens and a powerhouse in the wo...

2026 is here! Join a few of WESA’s partners and industry leaders for a future-focused Retail Roundup as they unpack what’s changing in western retail in 2026. This roundtable is designed for retail buyers who want clarity, confidence, and a competitive edge in 2026. Listen in... WESA Retail Roundup January 5, 2026: Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the Morning Facebook: Retail Roundup Facebo...

In our most-listened-to Wisdom by WESA episode of 2025, we sit down with Kelly, founder of Cascada and winner of the Most Innovative Product Award at the WESA Trade Show. Cascada is reshaping equine care through digital tools and education. Tune in! Hosts: Jennifer Hebert, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen Contact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing Specialist Guest: Kelly Munro Website: https://www.lighthoof.c...