Welcome to a milestone episode of Rooted in Retail—episode 100! I’m thrilled to have you here for this special celebration.

In today’s episode, we’re doing things a bit differently. My COO, Pauline Blasetti, will be turning the tables on me as I take on the Resilience Round—the rapid-fire Q&A I usually ask my guests. You’ll get to hear my answers at the end of the episode.

But I’ve also gathered some of my favorite responses from past guests to the question: What do you think the future of independent retail looks like? You’ll hear insights from ten amazing guests, all packed into this episode.

Plus, I’ll be sharing what’s next for Rooted in Retail. We’ve got some exciting new projects lined up, and I’m confident they’ll make a big impact on you and your store.

Before we dive in, I just want to say thank you—for listening, for being part of this community, and for making this journey so rewarding. It means the world to me. So, without further ado, let’s jump into episode 100 of Rooted in Retail!

[01:37] Rooted in Retail Merch Winners

[02:25] Celebrating 100 episodes of Rooted in Retai

[05:00] Why independent retailers need this key strategy to outperform big box chains

[06:14] Crystal's call to action for retailers

[08:3]7 Stay Tuned: A new Rooted in Retail segment you won't want to miss

[11:45] How Crystal plans to bring Rooted to Retail to life with in-person experiences

[13:47] Special Announcement: After the Show returns in September

[16:43] What makes independent retailers special with Dane Cohen

[17:57] How retailers can stay relevant with Jacqueline Snyder

[18:50] Why there's never been a better time to own a business with Wade Tonkin

[19:48] The biggest advantages independent retailers have over big box stores with Susan Negen

[20:51] Embrace the mindset of "I don't know what I don't know" with Paul Erickson

[22:31] The demand for independent shops is increasing with Karen Walsh

[23:51] The power of automation in the future of retail with Thad Price

[25:14] What will keep customers coming back to small business retail with Beth Rich

[25:49] Why retailers should take care of their regulars with Matt Harris

[27:32] How can we engage with customers in a different way with Kelly Bennett

[28:43] Episode Sponsor: Crystal Media Co. Ads Management Services

[29:56] Crystal Vilkaitis' Resilience Round

Get links to all the episodes and resources on our website at https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/the-future-of-independent-retail-with-crystal-vilkaitis/

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