Episodios

  • 283. Why Your Shop Matters More Than Ever - and How to Keep It Thriving in a Disconnected World
    Oct 20 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Ever stop mid-holiday hustle in your retail shop and think, “Why am I even doing this? Does this even matter?” This episode dives straight into that question. I’m sharing how meaningful connection - not just transactions - creates the kind of community and joy that keep both you and your customers coming back. You’ll learn how to balance a strong back of house (all the CEO work I talk about!) and a remarkable front of house that keeps your customers coming back again and again. Some Highlights from this session: Why human connection is your shop’s secret superpower How to blend “back of house” structure with “front of house” heart Ways to intentionally design remarkable in-store experiences and make your customers feel like they belong in your store Providing small, unexpected moments to your customers makes them feel seen and valued, building a truly memorable brand Your Next Steps: Grab your journal and put some thought into these questions: “Why does your shop exist? How does your business make people feel? Is it worthwhile and fulfilling to you?” Listen in to the to get yourself on the fast track to success in every aspect of your retail business this holiday season. Check out these book recommendations: by Priya Parker and by Will Guidara. Get an application in for my Level Up Mastermind. On top of high touch coaching with me, you’ll meet retailers from all over the world doing really awesome things. Plus, we are planning a meet-up again this year in my tiny fishing village. :) Related podcasts we think you’ll like: About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer. Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your
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    25 m
  • 282. Raise Your Standards, Raise Your Results: A Peek Inside a Real Coaching Call for Retailers
    Oct 13 2025
    With host retail coach is now a standalone masterclass, which means it’s available without an Inner Circle membership! Click to grab it now. You can walk through the sessions at your own pace and rewatch it year after year. Are you ready for more profits this holiday season? I’m hosting a FREE 60 minute on October 20 at 1pm EST. Yes, you read that right - it’s free! Get yourself registered . In This Episode: Have you ever wondered what sitting in on a coaching call with me would be like? Are you curious about the Inner Circle? Well you tuned in to the right podcast today, my friends. In this episode, which is directly from a recent coaching call inside my Retailers Inner Circle program, I’m answering 10 questions/sharing takeaways from real retailers inside my Retailer’s Inner Circle. We call it 10 in 10 because the idea is I’m answering 10 questions in 10 minutes. But, yes, this episode is a little longer than that. ;) What you’re getting today are quick, practical tips and inspiration for your busiest season yet. From vendor events to pricing for profit, money dates, and mindset shifts, this session will get you thinking (and acting!) like a true CEO - just in time for the holidays. Some Highlights from this session: How to run “Meet the Maker” events that boost sales and visibility The money date habit every successful retailer swears by Why being “nicely priced” can destroy your profits How the mere exposure effect can skyrocket your in-store sales A mindset shift to stretch yourself beyond “fine” into fantastic Your Next Steps: Take action by planning how you will review your financials at your next CEO date. Join the to be part of these 10 in 10 sessions every Friday in October and more! (Replays are also available!) Grab your spot in the Free on October 20th and finish the year strong. Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : Money Talk & Mindset with Profits First Coach April Stroink : Why CEO Time Isn’t Optional in Your Retail Business : Awesome Isn’t Accidental: Raise the Retail Standards in Your Shop About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer. Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your
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    35 m
  • 281. 5 Holiday Retail Takeaways: How to Prep for Profit Without the Chaos
    Oct 6 2025
    With host retail coach is now a standalone masterclass, which means it’s available without an Inner Circle membership! Click to grab it now. You can walk through the sessions at your own pace and rewatch it year after year. In This Episode: The holidays are coming fast, but with the right plan, chaos doesn’t have to be part of your story. In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m recapping the biggest takeaways from our recent Holiday Prep Coaching Week inside the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With just 86 days left in the year, now’s the time to get intentional, prepare, and create a season of profit and joy instead of stress and chaos. Key Takeaways: Holiday chaos is optional (and how to avoid it) The importance of defining your version of success beyond sales How to let your customers guide your calendar and promotions Simple ways to remove bottlenecks and streamline your season Why profit and hospitality matter more than constant discounts Your Next Steps: Download the now! It’s available for free to members of the Inner Circle and for a low price for non-members. For $97, you can rewatch the modules year after year. I’d love to hear what success means to you as it relates to the holiday season. When January 1, 2026 comes and you are ringing in a new year, what metrics will you use to rate your success in 2025? on Instagram and let’s chat! Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : Fresh Ways to Wow & Delight Your Customers This Holiday Season : Holiday Sales Tips From Seasoned Shop Owners : Simple Shifts to Boost Your Bottom Line This Holiday Season : How to Debrief Your Events Like a Pro: The Retailer’s Checklist About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer. Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your
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    29 m
  • 280. Future-Proof Your Holiday Retail: Strategies for Independent Shop Owners
    Sep 29 2025
    With host retail coach This is where your podcast html will now go Holiday Success Planning Guide is now a standalone masterclass, which means it’s available without an Inner Circle membership! Click HERE to grab it now. You can walk through the sessions at your own pace and rewatch it year after year. In This Episode: The holidays aren’t just about surviving Q4 - they’re about setting yourself up for success in the year ahead. In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m sharing practical strategies to “future-proof” your retail business. From experimenting with new revenue streams to delighting first-time customers, I’ll teach you how to use the busiest season as a launchpad for a thriving 2026. Key Takeaways: How to use Q4 momentum as a springboard into the new year (peak-end rule) Ideas for testing new product lines, partnerships, or experiences Why “wow and delight” moments keep customers coming back (you want to be memorable!) Simple strategies for January sales so your revenue doesn’t collapse after the holidays Smart ways to leverage data and technology (without losing your personal voice/touch) Your Next Steps: Download the Holiday Success Guide now! Grab my stand alone Sales Accelerator course. Revisit your Q4 strategy, and choose one experimental new revenue stream to implement this season. Related podcasts we think you’ll like: Episode 278: Behind the Counter with Megan Macdonald: How She Built a Profitable Two-Location Shop and Gained Her Freedom Episode 231: 3 Simple Retail Marketing Levers to Increase Your Holiday Sales Episode 179: Retailer Success Series: Jess Gebauer, on Using Unique Marketing and Sales Strategies About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Join Wendy’s CEO Planning Session for Retailers Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community Free resources for shop owners Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG All of Wendy’s current programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer.Click here to subscribe to iTunes!
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    29 m
  • 279. Two Types of Retail Shop Owners: Which One Are You?
    Sep 22 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Two types of shop owners are shaping the future of retail, and knowing which one you are could change everything. In this episode of Creative Shop Talk, I’m diving into the two distinct types of retail shop owners I’ve been noticing and I’m challenging you to decide which one you are. Drawing from my recent trip to Texas, coaching sessions, and mastermind conversations, I’ll share the patterns I’m seeing and some other takeaways from my recent coaching sessions and travels that I think will be helpful to you and your business growth. Key Takeaways: The two types of retail shop owners and how to identify where you land Why resisting change can hold your business back The role of margin and white space in fueling creativity How consistency builds trust without causing stagnation Why confidence is built through small, actionable steps “Don’t confuse consistency with sameness.” -Wendy Batten Your Next Steps: Reflect honestly: Which shop owner type describes you best? Build margin: Create time for reflection and creative space in your week. Take one step: Pick a small, doable action that builds confidence. Seek community (with me!): Surround yourself with growth-minded peers. Explore the possibilities in the or for deeper support! Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : 5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Profit Margins (and Why You Should!) : Retail Growth Through Small Steps : Simple Shifts to Boost Your Bottom Line This Holiday Season About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer. Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your
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    22 m
  • 278. Behind the Counter with Megan Macdonald: How She Built a Profitable Two-Location Shop and Gained Her Freedom
    Sep 15 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Ever feel like your shop is running you instead of the other way around? You’re not alone, and today’s guest proves there’s a better way. In this inspiring episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m welcoming Level Up Mastermind member Megan Macdonald, founder of . Megan joins me all the way from a small island in Scotland. She’s sharing her journey from making candles at her kitchen table to running a thriving retail and wholesale business with multiple revenue streams, including a coffee bar and subscription boxes. You’ll hear how Megan unshackled herself from feeling tied down to her shop, built a strong team culture, and created the freedom to travel while still growing her business. Her story is a powerful reminder that with the right systems and mindset, you can build a profitable business that supports your dream life. Key Takeaways from This Conversation: Building multiple revenue streams to fuel growth Creating freedom with strong systems and team trust Embracing scary but necessary growth decisions Balancing life, travel, and business without burnout Your Next Steps: 1. Reflect: What part of your business feels like it’s tying you down? 2. Act: Identify one system or process you can delegate this week. 3. Dream: Ask yourself, “What needs to be true for me to step into my next level?” 4. : Want to hang with like-minded shop owners from all over the world like Megan? The wait-list for the Level Up Mastermind is open! . Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : 10 Simple Ways to Level Up Your Shop : Retailer Success Series: Behind the Counter with Inner Circle Member Jeanne Terrill : Behind the Counter: Building the Business You Wish Existed with Jasmine McCue About Megan and Sandwick Bay Candles Megan started as a side hustle while on leave from her Occupational Therapy career when her youngest child was little. During her leave, her passion for candlemaking grew and so did the business. During the lockdown in 2020, business exploded for Megan, causing her to move her small workshop (which started at the kitchen table!) to a lifestyle shop in Stornoway, Scotland. Today, Sandwick Bay Candles is anticipating the opening of a second store and stocking candles at many other small businesses in the area. Megan is a member of the Level Up Mastermind and the Retailer’s Inner Circle. You can follow along with Megan here: | | About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably, with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer. Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your
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    27 m
  • 277. How to Debrief Your Events Like a Pro: The Retailer’s Checklist
    Sep 8 2025
    With host retail coach is now a standalone masterclass! Click to grab it now. You can walk through the sessions at your own pace and rewatch it year after year. LAST CHANCE! ? Join me and a small group on September 15th and let’s get down to business. Limited seating for this quarterly planning session. In This Episode: Ever wonder what makes an event or promotion truly successful? The secret isn’t just in the planning—it’s in the debrief. In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’ll walk you through my proven event debrief framework that top retailers use to grow smarter, stronger, and more profitable with every event. From tracking costs to capturing customer feedback, you’ll discover how a simple 10-minute review can uncover hidden wins, highlight areas to improve, and keep your energy aligned with your business goals. As your retail shop’s event calendar builds and Q4 approaches, you can’t afford to miss this episode. Takeaways Around Event Debriefing: Why debriefing is where the real magic (and money) happens How to track profitability, costs, and ROI effectively The importance of reviewing marketing effectiveness and customer impact Checking operational flow and team energy post-event Capturing momentum for future sales and engagement Your Next Steps: Download the event debrief checklist (for members of the Inner Circle!) Revisit your last event — what worked, what didn’t? Get the Tools & Support – Grab the for step-by-step guides, calculators, and planning templates to make 2025 your best and most relaxed holiday season yet. At only $97, you can’t afford not to! (It’s free for Inner Circle Members!) – Join the upcoming CEO Planning Workshop to map out your holiday strategy alongside me and other shop owners. - Don’t let another holiday season go by without my and other likeminded retailers’ support! And remember: your membership gets you unlimited access to the Holiday Success Bootcamp, the Profit Planning Masterclass, and so much more. Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : Three Ways to Effortlessly and Easily Increase Sales After Events : How to Plan and Host Successful Events and Promotions in Your Shop : How to Market Promotional Events in Your Shop About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer. Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your
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    19 m
  • 276. What Holiday Prep Actually Looks Like (Step by Step, Inner Circle Style)
    Sep 1 2025
    With host retail coach is now a standalone masterclass! Click to grab it now. You can walk through the sessions at your own pace and rewatch it year after year. ? Join me and a small group on September 15th and let’s get down to business. Limited seating for this quarterly planning session. In This Episode: September is here - and for retailers, that means it’s time to get serious about holiday planning! In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m sharing why Q4 doesn’t have to feel overwhelming and chaotic. Instead, with a little intention and front-loaded planning, you can step into the season with more joy, profit, and ease. Whether you’re joining the Inner Circle live coaching week (free for members September 15-19) or DIY-ing the Holiday Success Guide, this episode will inspire you to take action now so the season feels aligned and profitable. Key Takeaways: Why defining your version of success is the key to a great Q4. How to map out your “profit path” and choose what to prioritize. The importance of scheduling “big rocks” to avoid burnout and missed opportunities. Practical strategies for marketing, promotions, and prepping your team. Your Next Steps: Define what success looks like for you this holiday season. Review your revenue streams and decide where to focus. Block out your “big rocks” on the calendar—both business and personal. Share your Q4 goals with us inside the Retailer’s Inner Circle or tag me on Instagram! Get the Tools & Support – Grab the for step-by-step guides, calculators, and planning templates to make 2025 your best and most relaxed holiday season yet. At only $97, you can’t afford not to! (It’s free for Inner Circle Members!) – Join the upcoming CEO Planning Workshop to map out your holiday strategy alongside me and other shop owners. - Don’t let another holiday season go by without my and other likeminded retailers’ support! And remember: your membership gets you unlimited access to the Holiday Success Bootcamp, the Profit Planning Masterclass, and so much more. Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : How Top Shop Owners Are Planning Their Holiday Strategy : Holiday Prep: 5 Tips to Help You See More Profits & Ease During the Holidays : The Retailer’s Ecosystem: Where To Spend Your Time and Focus Within Your Business About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy. I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast. For more support from Wendy Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the Creative Shop Talk Podcast and get the tools, inspiration, and strategies you need to thrive as an independent retailer. Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your
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    24 m