Episodios

  • 285. Avoiding Retail Burnout: Closing Loops and Leaning In to Your People

    285. Avoiding Retail Burnout: Closing Loops and Leaning In to Your People
    Nov 3 2025
    With host retail coach Wendy Batten https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/ In This Episode: Are you feeling burnout creep in? Are you just plain tired of making all of the decisions? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm getting honest about burnout, decision fatigue, and what really causes that drained, frazzled feeling. (Hint: it's not just working too much!) Through my own recent experience, I'm sharing how leaning into trusted mentors and peers can reignite clarity, confidence, and momentum. I know you'll walk away inspired to simplify, close open loops, and stop overcomplicating your next steps. What You'll Learn About Burnout and Overwhelm in Retail: Why burnout often stems from indecision, not just overwork The power of leaning into the support of others instead of trying to "figure it out" alone How to fast-track decision-making by trusting mentors and peers The importance of investing in both mindset and skill-building at every stage Your Next Steps: What "open loops" from your to-do/results list can you close this week? Make a short list and carve out a small amount of time everyday to get them closed. Remember: You don't have to do it alone! You can do, delegate, delete, or defer. If you are looking for a place for valuable support from your peers in retail, I'd love to see you inside my Level Up Mastermind. We are a small group of retailers who are growing our businesses with trusted support, honest feedback, and the accountability that keeps burnout at bay. Apply now and take your next step toward light, confident leadership. Related podcasts we think you'll like: Episode 185: Avoid Burnout with Guest Expert Dr. Ashley Margeson Episode 230: Takeaways from my Mastermind Retreat: Building Connections and Strong Businesses Episode 261: How to Stay Focused and Get Things Done 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! Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!
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    26 m
  • 284. KISS Retail Overwhelm Goodbye: The Power of Keeping it Super Simple

    284. KISS Retail Overwhelm Goodbye: The Power of Keeping it Super Simple
    Oct 27 2025

    With host retail coach Wendy Batten

    https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

    In This Episode:

    Sometimes simple things make the biggest impact - and in this episode, I'm proving it with a story about my "famous" frozen turkey stuffing. Confused yet? Don't be! If you are an independent retailer you are in the right place, I promise!

    This episode is for retailers who need a refreshing reminder that running a successful shop (and life!) doesn't have to be overcomplicated. The KISS method - Keep It Super Simple - isn't about cutting corners, it's about focusing your time and energy where it truly matters.

    Key Takeaways Regarding the KISS Method:

    • Why simplicity fuels both joy and profitability in your business

    • How overthinking creates burnout and decision fatigue

    • Ways to apply the KISS method to your marketing, events, operations, and even your personal life

    • Why "done is better than perfect" can be your best mantra this season

    Your Next Steps:

    • Audit your to-do/results list this week. What can you simplify, delegate, or eliminate? Run it through the KISS filter—light, easy, and aligned with what matters most.

    • Join us in the Retailer's Inner Circle today! You'll have access to my Operations and Marketing Playbook every month that is full of tools that will help you KISS in your indie retail business.

    Related podcasts we think you'll like:

    CST Holiday Podcast Playlist

    Episode 197: A Monthly Debrief: A Simple Activity All Retail Shop Owners Should Be Doing

    Episode 126: 10 Simple Ways to Level Up 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

    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!



    Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank y
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    21 m
  • 283. Why Your Shop Matters More Than Ever - and How to Keep It Thriving in a Disconnected World

    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 Wendy Batten

    https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

    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 Holiday Podcast Playlist to get yourself on the fast track to success in every aspect of your retail business this holiday season.

    • Check out these book recommendations: The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker and Unreasonable Hospitality 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:

    CST Holiday Podcast Playlist



    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!



    Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!
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    25 m
  • 282. Raise Your Standards, Raise Your Results: A Peek Inside a Real Coaching Call for Retailers

    282. Raise Your Standards, Raise Your Results: A Peek Inside a Real Coaching Call for Retailers
    Oct 13 2025
    With host retail coach Wendy Batten https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/ 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. Are you ready for more profits this holiday season? I'm hosting a FREE 60 minute Holiday Profits Workshop on October 20 at 1pm EST. Yes, you read that right - it's free! Get yourself registered HERE. 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 Retailer's Inner Circle 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 Holiday Profits Workshop on October 20th and finish the year strong. Related podcasts we think you'll like: Episode 89: Money Talk & Mindset with Profits First Coach April Stroink Episode 263: Why CEO Time Isn't Optional in Your Retail Business Episode 268: 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 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! Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!
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    35 m
  • 281. 5 Holiday Retail Takeaways: How to Prep for Profit Without the Chaos

    281. 5 Holiday Retail Takeaways: How to Prep for Profit Without the Chaos
    Oct 6 2025
    With host retail coach Wendy Batten https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/ 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 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 Holiday Success Guide 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? Jump in my DMs on Instagram and let's chat! Related podcasts we think you'll like: Episode 182: Fresh Ways to Wow & Delight Your Customers This Holiday Season Episode 184: Holiday Sales Tips From Seasoned Shop Owners Episode 234: Simple Shifts to Boost Your Bottom Line This Holiday Season Episode 277: 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 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! Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!
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    29 m
  • 280. Future-Proof Your Holiday Retail: Strategies for Independent Shop Owners

    280. Future-Proof Your Holiday Retail: Strategies for Independent Shop Owners
    Sep 29 2025

    With host retail coach Wendy Batten

    https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

    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!



    Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!
    Más Menos
    29 m
  • 279. Two Types of Retail Shop Owners: Which One Are You?

    279. Two Types of Retail Shop Owners: Which One Are You?
    Sep 22 2025

    With host retail coach Wendy Batten

    https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

    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 Retailer's Inner Circle or Level Up Mastermind for deeper support!

    Related podcasts we think you'll like:

    Episode 169: 5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Profit Margins (and Why You Should!)

    Episode 191: Retail Growth Through Small Steps

    Episode 234: 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

    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!



    Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank yo
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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

    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 Wendy Batten https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/ 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 Sandwick Bay Candles. 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. Join us: 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! Add your name to the list today. Related podcasts we think you'll like: Episode 126: 10 Simple Ways to Level Up Your Shop Episode 219: Retailer Success Series: Behind the Counter with Inner Circle Member Jeanne Terrill Episode 239: Behind the Counter: Building the Business You Wish Existed with Jasmine McCue About Megan and Sandwick Bay Candles Megan started Sandwick Bay Candles 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: Instagram | Facebook | Website 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! Loved the episode? Leave a quick review on iTunes- your reviews help other retailers find my podcast, and they're also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!
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    27 m