Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kathy Cruz
Host, Kathy Cruz is a retail store owner and a retail business coach. She knows firsthand that running a retail business, both online and in a brick and mortar has its challenges. Kathy is passionate about teaching independent retailers how to work less, profit more and grow.
One of my favorite parts of hosting a yearly conference for retail store owners is sharing the tools I use (and love) to market, support, and get insight into my brick-and-mortar store.
These tools can seriously support and streamline your retail business—and they made great door prizes as sponsors at this year’s conference—but here’s a little more about what they do, who they’re for, and why I believe they’re valuable.
Listen to epsiode 251 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast for the 3 Tools for Retail Store Owners That’ll Save You Time (And Help Generate Revenue). Find shownotes to this episode at www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode251.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
When economic uncertainty rises, consumers don’t just “spend less,” they fundamentally change how they make decisions. Research shows that during periods of instability, people shift from “promotion-focused” thinking (seeking gains and opportunities) to “prevention-focused” thinking—avoiding losses and protecting what they have.
Your customers aren’t just being more careful with money; they’re operating from an entirely different psychological framework.
If you, as a retailer, can’t adapt your marketing strategy to better fit this mindset, it’ll be difficult to grow or even maintain your current sales or recover from a dip.
Listen to episode 250 for six behavioral strategies to build certainty in uncertain times. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode250.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
In this bonus episode, Kathy shares heartfelt reflections and key takeaways from the Get Traffic Savvy Shopkeeper Conference in Cleveland. From Amanda Herring’s unforgettable Instagram session to the video memorial honoring April to Mamita’s surprise visit, this episode captures the magic, learning, and love that filled the room. Kathy also opens up about what she learned as a leader, why this event has to happen again, and the power of connecting with fellow shopkeepers. Whether you attended or not, this recap is full of insight, inspiration, and gratitude. Mentioned in the episode:
The event venue webiste for Biographie: The Colab Concepts
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If there’s something that every store owner wants to review or discuss, but the discomfort of the conversation is convincing you to avoid it, it’s your margins.
With rising costs, inflation, and the constant pressure to keep your customers happy, this is one of the trickiest but most important things you need to dial in this year. So, if you’ve been wrestling with pricing decisions or you’re feeling nervous about charging “too much,” then this is for you!
Listen to episode 249 for seven ways you can improve and protect your profit margins. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode249.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
At first glance, extending store hours might seem like a simple decision. Just “stay open a little later, and customers will come,” right? But, not quite. A decision like this deserves a thoughtful approach, and that’s where a cost-benefit analysis can make all the difference.
But, if you’re wondering why, this is for you. Here are five reasons why you should do a cost-benefit analysis of extending your store hours.
Listen to episode 248 for five reasons why conducting a cost-benefit analysis is so valuable when you’re considering extending your store hours. For shownotes visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode248.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
When you’re running a brick-and-mortar business, there’s a fear you probably didn’t expect to have, thanks to taxes: the fear of making more profit. Avoiding profit is not the best financial strategy, and it can actually hurt your business both short-term and long-term.
While I’m going to share WHY this is, I want to also remind you to consult your CPA, financial advisor, and/or bookkeeper for clarification on if you can use this for your business and financial situation.
Listen to episode 247 for tips on how to navigate tax brackets as an indie retail brick-and-mortar business owner and visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode247 for show notes to this episode.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
One of the most common challenges brick-and-mortar store owners face is in their financial planning. From filtering through the advice that actually applies to you and juggling factors out of your control (like tariffs), it’s hard to find something that works.
In today's episode, I’m sharing 6 common financial planning tips that work and how to tell if financial advice is meant for you (and if it’s not). I’m also sharing BOTH the why they may or why they may not work for your retail business. I want you to think carefully about whether or not it would work for YOU.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
I received an email that compelled me to address "the small business struggle." The struggles you face as a small business owner often follow what we like to think of as “patterns.”
Pandemic, inflation, election years, seasonal slumps—these aren’t new challenges. They’ve happened before, and they’ll happen again regardless if the economy is booming or not.
In the small indie retail business world someone is always thriving, someone is always breaking even, someone is always treading water, and someone is always fighting to stay afloat. Shift your mindset to think that navigating hard times are your baseline - it's not about ignoring or escaping them—it’s about learning to succeed because of them.
Whether you're thriving or struggling in your business, listen to episode 245 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast at www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode245 and learn how you can join the Master Shopkeeper community - a group for brick-and-mortar store owners in all stages of business.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
You've got questions about the 2025 Savvy Shopkeeper Conference—I’ve got answers! In this bonus episode, I’m sharing all the juicy details: the finalized agenda, the workshop-style sessions, the incredible door prizes, what’s actually included in your ticket, and why this isn’t just another business event—it’s an experience designed to help you grow traffic and sales with tech-savvy, modern strategies.
If you're a brick-and-mortar store owner who isn’t afraid to embrace technology—and you’re ready to multiply your investment—this event is for you. Scholarships are still open (but not for long!), and tickets won't last, so don’t wait.
🎟️ Conference Details & Tickets: savvyshopkeeper.com/conference 💸 Savvy Support Fund: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/savvy-support-fund 📅 Master Shopkeepers Scholarship Deadline: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 8pm EST 📅 General Scholarship Deadline: Within a week of this episode—check your email inbox if you're on the list!
This is your chance to connect, learn, implement, and finally focus on smart growth—without a single sales pitch. Are you coming?
Hiring can feel daunting, no matter what stage of business ownership you’re in, especially when you’re managing so much already. You’re worried about trusting someone else with your business, so it’s no wonder the idea of bringing another person, even an employee, causes so much stress.
But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. By the end of this podcast episode, you’ll feel more informed, confident and ready to tackle hiring your retail employees head-on. Or, at least, more prepared. Listen to episode 244 where I share eight hiring tips for indie retail business owners that they need to know. Visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode244 for the show notes to this episode.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
I’m going to be honest with you, I can’t summarize the tariffs situation for you—too much is happening at once and you never know when it’ll change again. That said, what I can do is share solutions and strategies to navigate these tariffs as an indie retailer.
With creativity, strategy, and a proactive approach, you can minimize disruption, protect your profit margins, and even uncover new opportunities.
In this episode, we’re going to cover both traditional and out-of-the-box tariff solutions independent retailers can use to navigate the increased tariffs with confidence. For show notes and resources mentioned in this episode visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode243.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Have you said “no” to something that could have been a game-changer for your business? If so, it’s not too late to revisit it—or to say “yes” to the next opportunity that comes your way. In this episode, I go over mindset traps such as fear of change, imposter syndrome, skepticism, and how to overcome these mindset traps.
If any of these mindset traps pull at your strings visit my blog at www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode242 for show notes and resources.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Discover how one shop owner turned a surprise visit and a one-hour coaching call into a 50% increase in retail sales! In Episode 241 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, Kathy Cruz shares insights, tips, and lessons from this inspiring success story. Learn how strategic action, even with a low AOV, can drive growth.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode240.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website & Mastermind Group: Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Savvy Shopkeeper Get Traffic Conference
Sunday & Monday, May 18-19, 2025
Venue: Biographie, Lakewood Ohio (west of Cleveland) Join us for a 2-day, high-impact conference designed exclusively for independent retailers. With a limited number of seats, this event cuts through the fluff to deliver actionable workshops that will transform both your foot traffic and e-commerce strategies.
Expect intimate, hands-on sessions led by industry experts, powerful networking opportunities, and life-changing insights to grow your business with confidence and clarity. Get ready for real transformation that drives results. Ticket sales are live!
https://savvyshopkeeper.com/conference/
Mark your calendars for the Faire Wholesale Winter Market
The Faire Wholesale Winter Market 2025 is scheduled for January 22–24, with early access for Faire Insiders beginning on January 21.
Traveling to market might not make sense for you this year. That’s why I’m here with some tips for creating an impactful and fun virtual buying-day for yourself. Consider strategically dedicating a FULL day to Faire’s Winter Market instead.
Join the Faire Wholesale Winter Market and maximize your buying this season.
If you found this episode helpful, share it with a fellow shopkeeper who could benefit from this idea, too *Some of the links or codes I share are affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you make a purchase after using them—at no extra cost to you. I recommend these products because I genuinely believe they’re helpful for shopkeepers, not because of the commission I might earn. Please only purchase items if you feel they’re truly useful and will help you reach your goals.
Timestamps * [00:01:37] Listener Shoutout to Katie at Affordable Treasures * [00:02:33] The Benefits of Wholesale Buying In-Person * [00:03:57] The Costs of Wholesale Buying In-Person * [00:04:45] Why a buying trip might not make sense for a store owner * [00:06:31] Maximize Buying with the Faire Wholesale Winter Market * [00:09:20] The Costs of Wholesale Buying at the Faire Wholesale Winter Market * [00:11:20] Tips on Attending an In-Person Market * [00:12:19] How to Have an Impactful Virtual Buying Day at the Faire Wholesale Winter Market * [00:12:28] 3 Ways to Make Shopping the Faire Wholesale Winter Market a Fun and Productive Day * [00:15:25] Preparing a Buying Strategy for the Faire Wholesale Winter Market * [00:17:25] How to Find the Right Vendors at Faire’s Wholesale Winter Market * [00:18:42] Why the Faire Wholesale Winter Market is a Gamechanger for Independent Retailers
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode240.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
We’re kicking off 2025 with part two of this interview series hosted by member of Master Shopkeeper Member Ceri Otero. Tune in to hear how I'm embracing the New Year with 8 lessons from my past.
In case you missed last week's episode: All About Kathy Cruz: A Vulnerable Interview PART 1, tune in to hear topics like inclusivity, resilience, dissappointments and mindset.
Timestamps * [00:01:26] What's something you thought you weren't any good at professionally that has turned out to either be no big deal or you found ways to work around it? * [00:04:53] The one thought that guides Kathy Cruz in any moment * [00:06:16] A Master Shopkeeper Testimonial from Ceri Otero * [00:06:49] Lesson 1: How Kathy untangles her personal worth from her business performance * [00:10:13] Lesson 2: When Kathy Cruz knew she had something magical with the Savvy Shopkeeper Community * [00:12:00] Lesson 3: Why Kathy can do hard things * [00:12:55] Lesson 4: Kathy Cruz’s New Life Mantra * [00:14:51] Lesson 5: When do you get angry in your business? What pushes Kathy Cruz's buttons? * [00:20:29] Lesson 6: Why Kathy believes: "Being a broken record is the best gift that I can give." * [00:22:00] Lesson 7: What Kathy Cruz has learned from YOU, her listeners and community * [00:23:38] Lesson 8: What Kathy is proudest of over these last 8 years * [00:25:34] Kathy Cruz’s Secret Projects Launching in 2025
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode239.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
To kick off 2025, Ceri Otero, a Master Shopkeeper member and former radio personality (cool, right?), asked if she could interview ME, Kathy Cruz. After episode #231, she decided to flip the script and gather questions from the community for this vulnerable conversation.
In part 1 of this episode, we talk through topics like inclusivity, resilience, dissappointments and mindset.
Tune in next week for part 2 of this Kathy Cruz interview where I reflect on my business journey as we step into the new year.
Timestamps * [00:08:02] Why inclusivity is extremely important to Kathy in her work * [00:08:39] Why being a detective makes for a great coach and strategist * [00:11:18] Two key activities that helped Kathy Cruz step into her Zone of Genius * [00:16:25] How Kathy Cruz handles disappointments * [00:19:37] How Kathy Cruz has learned to enjoy the journey over the accomplishment * [00:21:04] How Kathy Cruz defines success * [00:22:32] How Kathy Cruz sets boundaries
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode238.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
As independent retail store owners, we’re well-versed in the challenges we face, especially as the retail industry, the economy, and the world continuously shift. So what upcoming trends can help us not just survive but thrive in 2025?
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the future of retail, specifically focusing on how indie retailers can stand out by embracing emerging trends.
From curation over stock volume to hyper-personalization via omnichannel retail and embracing AI tools for efficiency, we’re looking at a variety of strategies that can elevate your retail business in 2025.
But it's not just about the trends—it's about making them work for you! Whether you're looking to enhance your customer experience or explore new revenue streams like subscription models, there's a 2025 retail trend that you should embrace to meet your business goals.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode237.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
DISCLAIMER: This episode was originally scheduled to air on December 5, 2024, but legal developments and a busy week caused some last-minute delays. After months of postponing this topic due to ongoing legal uncertainties, I felt it was finally time to address the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and the BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) requirement—a regulation many small business owners may not even be aware of.
However, just as this episode was set to publish, a U.S. District Court in Texas issued an injunction, putting the CTA on hold again. This legal limbo means the requirement could still go into effect in January 2025, but for now, we’re in a holding pattern.
I’m sharing this episode to inform you about the potential impacts of the CTA on small businesses, with the understanding that its future is uncertain. Listen in to learn more, and stay tuned for updates as they unfold.
Here are the show notes for the original episode I recorded.
For show notes, including links to helpful resources and the filing guide, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode236.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Understanding the financial health of your retail business extends beyond just recognizing your profit. In this insightful episode, we're diving into the complexities of retail business finances and learning why being profitable doesn't always mean having a positive cash flow.
We’re reviewing the three critical financial statements in an indie retail business: the profit and loss statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement. We’ll discover how each statement plays a vital role in evaluating your business's financial status and understand how they interconnect.
Listen in to connect the dots between profitability, financial health, and effective cash management so you can make informed decisions and propel your retail business forward.
For show notes, including links to anything I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode235.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
If you’ve ever faced a cash flow struggle, you know how much stress it can cause you. But before you address the issue, you need to identify the root cause. Are you truly dealing with insufficient income, financial mismanagement, or operational inefficiencies? Or are you experiencing seasonal cash flow crunches that are common in the retail world?
Listen in as I break down these four critical areas and provide insights into identifying what's draining your store's cash flow. Understanding your business's financial ebb and flow can seem daunting, but with awareness comes clarity. Let’s dismantle common myths about cash flow issues and explore strategies for overcoming them!
Plus, learn how normalizing cash flow crunches as a natural part of the retail cycle can help ease anxiety and promote smarter, more proactive financial management.
For show notes, including links to anything I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode234.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
As retail business owners, revenue is often top of mind. But revenue alone doesn’t give us the complete picture of your store's financial health! That’s why we’re uncovering the intricacies of cash flow in a new three-part series.
Listen in to learn the critical components of cash flow and how managing cash flow effectively protects your indie retail store from financial turmoil. We’ll cover how cash flow ensures liquidity, supports growth, and reveals hidden financial challenges.
Let’s pull back the curtain on the essential cash flow knowledge needed to make sound decisions and maintain a thriving, financially stable retail business! Plus, learn how you can participate in the Cash Flow Clarity challenge I’m hosting in Master Shopkeepers in 2025.
For show notes, including links to anything I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode233.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Running a business is already challenging, but dealing with the symptoms of perimenopause while running a business has made the last two years incredibly difficult. That’s why I’m sharing the ugly truth about perimenopause as an entrepreneur and how it affects not just our personal lives, but our businesses, too.
In this episode, I’m opening up about my journey through this phase of life—experiencing symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, inflammation, and more—while continuing to manage and grow my business. I share the moments of realization that led me to understand I was in the throes of perimenopause, the steps I’ve taken since, and the impact it has had on my work.
Listen in as I discuss the importance of awareness, proactive health measures, and open communication about our experiences. This isn’t just about surviving perimenopause; it’s about thriving and driving a conversation around a topic that has been ignored for far too long.
For show notes, including links to the documentary and resources I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode232.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Originally, I planned to record a quick episode to talk about the upcoming Retail Email Bootcamp and let you know that the calendars in the Savvy Shopkeeper planners start now. However, I first want to acknowledge the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, particularly in states like North Carolina, Florida, and Georgia. The images and stories coming out of these areas are heartbreaking, and as a brand that deeply values supporting the small business community, I knew I had to act.
After receiving an email from Heart on Main Street, a non-profit that specializes in helping retailers in devastated communities, I decided to donate 50% of all revenue from bootcamp ticket and Savvy Shopkeeper planner sales this week to their Hurricane Helene donation drive. If you're interested in the Retail Email Bootcamp, which is happening October 7-9 with replay access for 60 days, now is a great time to grab your spot and support a good cause at the same time. You can also help by purchasing a planner, knowing that 50% of the revenue will go directly to helping other store owners rebuild. Together, we can make a difference.
For more information:
- Retail Email Bootcamp: www.savvyshopkeeper.com/emailbootcamp
- Planners: www.savvyshopkeeper.com/planner
- Interview with Patrick Kaiser of Heart on Main Street: www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode210
- Donate directly to Heart on Main Street: https://givebutter.com/hurricane-helene-relief
Thank you for your support! I'll share how much we, as a community, donate in a future episode.
Ceri Otero didn’t dream of being a shopkeeper as a kid. But when she decided to open a specialty olive oil and vinegar shop in Carthage, Missouri, it felt like all the threads of her life were coming together.
From selling Avon in 8th grade to a stint as a corporate HR representative to merchandising for Hallmark, each of Ceri’s previous jobs had prepared her for running an independent retail store, even if she didn’t realize it then. Her mom said it best: “Of course, you would. That makes perfect sense.” While outlining a novel during the early days of COVID, Ceri manifested her food-focused retail store. Her book centered on a bakery on a town square—the exact location of Ceri’s future store, Carthage Olive Oil. Finding that location was a series of magical steps that, combined with Ceri’s hard work, have created a successful, tourist-enticing olive oil shop.
Listen in to hear how Ceri manifested her retail store, why she believes there’s a bit of magic in any successful business, and how Ceri’s courageous marketing strategy has helped the Carthage community attract more visitors.
For show notes, including links to connect with Ceri and get free Savvy Shopkeeper resources, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode231.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Customers love visiting indie retail stores and discovering new items, and many indie shopkeepers revel in curating fresh finds for their stores. The part that isn’t enjoyable? Adding new items to your inventory system—especially if your inventory entry process is manual.
Whether you're managing hundreds of new SKUs or reordering popular products, you don't have to feel overwhelmed. Listen in to discover practical tips that can streamline your inventory entry process and reclaim your time.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode230.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Hey Shopkeepers! 🎁 Ready to make this holiday season your best yet? Join me on Monday, Sep 9, 2024, at 1 PM EST for a virtual workshop designed to help you plan, prepare, and profit this Q4! Whether you’re a seasoned retailer or a newbie, this session is packed with actionable strategies to maximize your holiday revenue. We’ll cover everything from email marketing and inventory planning to staff planning, social media and more.
Don’t leave money on the table—let’s crush this holiday season together! 🎄
Secure your spot now: savvyshopkeeper.com/q4workshop
Cart closes on September 8, 2024 at 8pm EST
Jolene Forrester, owner of JoRetro in Havre de Grace, Maryland, has built a thriving legacy retail store with multiple streams of income. What started out in a small antique mall booth has grown into a 5000 square foot retail store with vintage treasures, niche retro-style products, a twice-annual Pyrex & Vintage Festival, and a thriving Airbnb apartment rental business.
With an extensive background in corporate interior design, Jolene’s knack for creative merchandising and unique vintage finds has helped her build JoRetro—along with a few key lessons from Master Shopkeepers.
Listen in to hear how Jolene went from interior designer to indie retail store owner, the key lesson in squares per sale foot that Jolene learned from Kathy inside Master Shopkeepers, and what Jolene envisions for her retail store in the near future.
For show notes, including links to Jolene’s social media and other resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode229.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
We are thrilled to share you have TWO options this year for store planning tools! Not only are we offering the digital planner again but we also have printed version for those of you who love and prefer pen and paper! Click HERE to learn about both options.
Not sure which is the right tool for you? Click HERE to receive an invite to attend a zoom call with Kathy on Monday, August 19, 2024 so you can learn the difference between the digital planner and the printed workbook.
If there’s one thing that nearly all indie retail store owners struggle with, it’s planning. And when we struggle with planning, using a planner is next to impossible! But our planner problems CAN be solved when we address the real culprit behind our planning struggles.
Listen in to discover the real culprit behind your planning struggles. Plus, you’ll learn how to build new habits when you combine one of my favorite business books with my favorite business tool—the Savvy Shopkeeper Planner!
Can’t wait to grab the new and improved Savvy Shopkeeper Planner? Visit savvyshopkeeper.com/planner to get yours at early bird pricing.
Go to savvyshopkeeper.com/episode228 for links to everything mentioned in this episode.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
In today's bonus shortie episode I'm delving into the misconceptions surrounding business performance during turbulent times. I explore how the thoughts of business owners directly influence their feelings and, subsequently, their actions.
Election years can indeed be a bumpy ride for small business owners, but it doesn't have to spell disaster for your business. By shifting your mindset and staying focused on strategic actions, you can navigate the noise and come out stronger.
Elisa Vietri always dreamed of opening a retail shop for her ever-growing collection of vintage goods. So when she and a friend drove by an empty storefront in Cleveland, Ohio’s Little Italy neighborhood in 2014, she jumped at the opportunity.
Now the proud owner of Moonstruck CLE, Elisa has ten years of experience selling vintage goods and connecting with other collectors. She’s built a profitable retail business for herself without taking on a penny of debt.
But that doesn’t mean she hasn’t had some ups and downs—Elisa learned how to be a shopkeeper on her own, was laid off from her previous career, and then found Master Shopkeepers at the perfect moment.
Listen in to hear the full story of Elisa’s journey as the owner of Moonstruck CLE, along with what stage of her shopkeeping journey Elisa is in, why she plans to stay in that stage, and how joining Master Shopkeepers changed her approach to retail entrepreneurship for the better.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode227.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
As an independent retailer, finding the right trade shows to attend can make a significant difference in your buying strategy and overall business success. OffPrice Show in Las Vegas is a prominent event in the retail industry, but is it the right fit for your store?
Listen in to learn more about OffPrice Show, discover what types of retailers will benefit from it the most, and decide if it aligns with your retail goals and purchasing strategy.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode226.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Have you ever looked around your retail store and thought, “wow, I could really use some advice on how to make this better?”
That’s exactly what one retail store owner and Master Shopkeepers member did early last year. Luckily for Patty, a pseudonym gift shop owner from the Portland, OR area, I was giving away an in-store intensive.
Through a mix of Zoom calls and a day-long visit to her store, Patty and I were able to update three key areas of her growing business. Our work together not only streamlined Patty’s inventory system, but also gave her a healthy confidence boost about her buying decisions. She also hit a significant annual revenue goal as a result of our in-store intensive!
Listen in to hear about Patty’s in-store intensive experience, the exact pieces we worked on, and to learn how you can book your own.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode225.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Did you know that up to 99% of the decisions we make are subconscious? Since our decisions drive our behaviors, it’s crucial that we learn to make more of our decisions consciously rather than subconsciously!
In today’s episode, I’ve invited my coach, Neill Williams, to share the science behind entrepreneurial emotions. With a master’s in economics and mathematics and as a Master Certified Coach, Neill is uniquely positioned to explain behavior economics—aka, the science behind why we do what we do—and how we can learn to change our emotional response.
Tune in to learn the three key concepts that make up the “Trifecta of No,” how the trifecta influences our response to uncertainty and change, and how we can break our entrepreneurial emotions free to make better decisions in our retail businesses.
For show notes, including links to any resources shared in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode224.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
As your indie retail business grows, leading a team becomes a crucial part of your store owner responsibilities. And while being a leader may not come naturally, being a better leader is thankfully a skill that you can cultivate.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing the five essential skills you can quickly learn to be a better leader. You’ll be known for your kindness, respect, and humility after implementing these tips!
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode223.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Let’s face it: being an indie retail store owner isn’t easy. There are shipments to bust, products to merchandise, backstock to organize, floats to reconcile, and tasks to delegate.
Beyond the day-to-day operations, there are even more high-level tasks that eat at your time and brain power, like choosing what products to bring in and figuring out how to pay yourself.
Do you know what makes all of the above easier? Building a strong foundation for your store. A foundation of understandable data, easy-to-use systems, and streamlined processes will make your life simpler—and give you space to work smarter, profit more, and grow your retail business.
Listen in to learn six reasons why you need to build a strong foundation for your retail store, along with two ways I can help you get there. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode222.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
For indie retail store owners who run vendor or consignment-style stores, there’s an extra layer of work on top of running a store: managing vendor relationships.
Vendors at these stores normally rent a specific booth or section of the store to display their products. And while each vendor is in charge of managing their inventory, cleaning their area, and merchandising their products…
…the owner of the store sets the boundaries and guidelines that the vendor must follow.
Is it possible for retail store owners to set clear, fair, and consistent expectations with ALL of their vendors? Absolutely. Is it an easy task? Definitely not. Managing vendor relationships is no small feat.
Listen in to learn why the fine line between friend and colleague can make running a vendor or consignment-style store challenging, as well as my top tips for setting clear boundaries with your vendors.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode221.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Encouraging your customers to pay in cash is not only great for your business (buh-bye, credit card transaction fees!), but great for your community.
Accepting cash diversifies payment options, keeps money out of banks’ deep pockets, and gives people without bank accounts access to goods and services. Cash is a win for small businesses and customers alike!
While taking more cash payments might feel risky for your indie retail business, I promise that the benefits to you and your customers far outweigh the negatives.
Listen in to learn the facts about accepting cash, how you can encourage customers to pay in cash, and how to keep you and your employees safe when handling cash transactions. For show notes, including links to the resources I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode220.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Have you ever decided to shop small, confirmed store’s hours online, driven over to the store…only to find a “sorry, we’re closed” sign hanging on the door?
That frustration you’ve felt in that moment is NOT what you want to give to your customers in case of a temporary store closing! Communicating with your customers about a store closing, whether planned or unplanned, doesn’t take long—especially when you’ve got a system in place.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing a customizable Store Closings Communications Checklist so you can create a system for this critical task for your indie retail store. Listen in to learn the key places to update your store hours, how to create a simple system for these updates, and who to delegate this to in case of an emergency.
For show notes, including how to download your free copy of the Store Closings Communications Checklist, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode219.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
With Q1 of 2024 behind us, it feels like a good time to share some impromptu Savvy Shopkeeper updates. There have been a lot of changes within my business and personal life, and I’m excited to share them with you!
Listen in to hear about leaving my retail store behind, finishing my coaching certification, an in-person event you’ll want to save the dates for, a potential paper version of the Savvy Shopkeeper planner, and more.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode218.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Posting on Instagram can feel exhausting and overwhelming, especially as a retail store owner with a million other things on your plate. That’s why I’m sharing a metric for you to track that can make your social media efforts feel worth it—and that no one else is talking about!
Listen in to learn about this hidden metric, plus get a brand-new free resource to help you audit and optimize your Instagram account. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode217.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Between an upcoming leadership month in Master Shopkeepers and wanting to share how I’m learning to lead the Savvy Shopkeeper team, leadership has been top of mind for me. That’s why I was so excited to chat with Shelli Warren, the founder of Stacking Your Team.
After a 25-year stint at Proctor & Gamble, Shelli ventured into leadership coaching for small business owners. She’s got a knack for stacking a team—aka, curating a dynamic, talented, and collaborative group that works together seamlessly.
Part of stacking a team is figuring out what motivates each team member. When working with small business owners, Shelli helps them discover how to motivate and develop teams without throwing extra money at them.
Listen in to learn how to build your leadership muscles, as well as Shelli’s top three tips for motivating your retail team members without dangling a raise in front of them.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode216.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
From plugging your retail profit leaks to scaling your indie retail business, this year’s Savvy Shopkeeper survey covered a bit of everything.
I’m excited to share the results with you, especially because it might show you what’s possible for your store.
I’m also sharing how you can attend my upcoming masterclass, Stop The Drip. In this two-hour class, you’ll learn how to identify and plug the retail profit leaks you’re experiencing in your indie retail business using my Retail Profit Pie tool. There are just 50 spots available, so be sure to grab yours ASAP if you want to attend.
Listen in to explore one of my favorite data sets—the Savvy Shopkeeper survey results!—and learn more about the Stop The Drip masterclass.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode215.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
If you’re an Aspiring Shopkeeper, figuring out how and where to buy wholesale inventory is a crucial step towards opening your store’s doors. Luckily, there’s a program that makes it super easy to curate, order, and buy inventory for a retail store: Open With Faire.
Built by one of the most reliable online wholesale platforms around, Open With Faire gives new retail store owners the education, tools, and buying power they need to kickstart their inventory.
Listen in to learn how to buy inventory for a retail store using Open With Faire and all the reasons why I highly recommend this innovative program.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode214.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
As indie retail store owners, it’s all too easy to focus on the negative. We’re always thinking about which stores are closing, what’s to blame for industry-wide difficulties, and how each new hurdle might lead to our store failing.
And while our glass-half-empty view isn’t surprising (we’re only human, after all!), we can and SHOULD try to change our mindset. Celebrating our successes gives us proof that we can accomplish even bigger goals in the future.
It can be hard to celebrate our accomplishments though, especially when we’re stuck in a negative mindset. That’s why I’m sharing some examples of what’s possible in independent retail today! Listen in to hear success stories and wins from the Savvy Shopkeeper community—and teach your brain that you can do that, too.
For show notes, including links to anything I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode213.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Kate Simpson, owner of Cerulean of Cape Cod, was always a maker and a nurturer. She created her own jewelry, sold it at weekend markets, and even had a spot at a vendor-based retail store, all while working full-time as a nurse.
Eventually, though, she wanted to take the entrepreneurial leap into nurturing a retail store of her own. That’s when Cerulean was born.
Listen in as Kate shares how Cerulean has evolved through several locations, what she’s learned over the past five years, how she’s adapting to a new customer base at her latest storefront, and why she loves being the group ambassador and call moderator for Master Shopkeepers.
For show notes, including links to follow Kate on social media, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode212.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Bookkeeping is crucial for any business, and indie retailers are no exception! It's the key to understanding your finances, making smart choices, and pushing your biz forward.
Today, I’m sharing six bookkeeping tips from a recent live lesson I taught to Master Shopkeepers. Listen in to learn what you need to do to keep your books in order so you can work smarter, profit more, and grow.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode211.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters are on the rise. Thankfully, Heart on Main Street is there to support independent retail businesses when disaster strikes.
After growing up on the wholesale side of retail, Patrick Keiser founded Heart on Main Street to provide indie retailers with the resources, tools, and educational opportunities they need to reinvest in their businesses.
One of those resources is Heart on Main Street’s Jumpstart Program. Heart on Main Street provides retailers affected by natural disasters with thousands of dollars worth of coupons to rebuild their wholesale stock, thanks to generous donations from their vendor partners.
Tune in to Patrick’s insightful interview to learn how you can prepare your indie retail business for potential natural disasters and how Heart on Main Street might support you in your time of need.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode210.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Our laptops are not only an extension of our physical workspace, but often an extension of our minds. Digital clutter in the form of tons of too many tabs and multiple windows can bog us down.
But there are ways to increase your web browser efficiency—and just as with other key systems for independent retailers, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to help you get the most out of your time on the web.
Listen in to learn what other shopkeepers struggle with when it comes to using their browsers efficiently, along with my top tips for creating a useful system to help you work smarter!
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode209.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
After many years of attending AmericasMart as a buyer, this year was my first time attending as an observer.
It was fascinating to chat with members of the Savvy Shopkeeper community, spot market trends, and be a fly on the wall at showrooms!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing my five key takeaways from AmericasMart 2024.
Listen in to learn what trends we’ll be seeing later this year, how showroom dynamics can affect your market orders, why large minimum order values aren’t the issue you think they are, and more.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode208.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Asking your customers for feedback can be scary—trust me, I know! Most years, I ask my customers and community to complete the Savvy Shopkeeper survey.
While getting feedback directly from the people I serve can be nerve-wracking, it’s an overwhelmingly positive experience.
Read on to learn how you can fill out this year’s Savvy Shopkeeper Survey along with my best tips for conducting a feedback survey in your indie retail business!
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode207.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Managing cash flow is a difficult task for most indie retail store owners, but it doesn’t have to be! I’m excited to share a virtual banking solution that helps you automate your cash flow management: Relay Financial.
When I first read Profit First, I was skeptical. The cash flow management system proposed in the book required setting up multiple bank accounts. When I finally took the plunge and implemented it, though, it made all the difference in the financial health of the store I co-owned with my sister and Savvy Shopkeeper.
I wish Relay Financial had been around when I first set up my Profit–First-style cash management system—it would have made things so much easier!
Listen in to learn more about how to ease your cash flow angst by managing your retail business’s cash flow with the Profit First method and the official Profit First banking platform, Relay Financial.
Visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode206 for show notes, including links to anything I mentioned in this episode.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
For indie retailer store owners, tasks like writing product descriptions, planning promotions, and mapping out quarterly plans can take a LOT of mental energy—especially after a full day of running your store. That’s where my Free ChatGPT Resource Guide comes in handy!
This empowering guide will help you use ChatGPT effectively to support your retail business. Listen in to learn how my usage of ChatGPT has evolved, what’s included in the guide, and where you can download your free copy.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode205.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
Supporting the shop local and shop small movements has always been a core value of mine. One way I was failing at that, however, was with my book-buying habits. Instead of supporting local bookshops, I often bought books with 1-click checkout at Amazon.
Thankfully, I’ve discovered a new way to buy books online that also supports local bookshops!
Listen in to learn more about the genius website that distributes profits to thousands of local bookshops—and how I’ve partnered with them to share my favorite recommendations with savvy shopkeepers like you.
Plus, I’ll share how you can win a $50 gift card to the new Savvy Shopkeeper Bookshop!
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode204.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it can be nice to take a brain break before diving into the planning and goal setting we need to do for the year ahead. Sometimes, a little motivation and inspiration can be helpful, too!
Personally, I enjoy watching TV shows to give myself a brain break and get inspired for the next 12 months. Today, I’m sharing three TV shows that are motivating and inspiring my entrepreneurial side right now. Listen in to hear what shows I’m watching and why I love them for indie retail store owners.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode203.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
For many indie retail store owners, digital marketing doesn’t come naturally. With the ever-changing social media landscape, a constant stream of new features, and best practices that vary from platform to platform, it can be difficult for retailers to parse what’s worth the effort (and what’s best left on the backroom floor).
Enter Crystal, our go-to guru who's been supporting independent retailers with their social media presence for nearly 15 years. In today’s episode, Crystal spills the beans on what really works on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for indie retailers like us.
If you've ever found yourself scratching your head over what to put in your Instagram carousels, wondering if Facebook is still worth your time (spoiler: it totally is!), or debating whether or not to join TikTok, this episode is a must-listen.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode202.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: Retail Business Coach For Brick & Mortar Store Owners • Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
For independent store owners, the fear of discounting inventory is very real—especially when they’ve got dead stock hanging around!
It’s all too common for shopkeepers to have lots of negative thoughts about dead stock, discounting, and what those things mean about them. But if you can change those thoughts, you can make better decisions and see vastly different results.
While noticing and changing our thoughts isn’t easy, it’s crucial mindset work for every indie retailer. Listen in to learn how most store owners think about dead stock, how to change those thoughts, and what results you can achieve when you get past your fear of discounting inventory.
For show notes, including the link to the 2024 Evolve Conference before prices rise on 12/31/23 and anything else I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode201.
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/ Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
I'm here with a bonus episode, post-Christmas, to share an announcement and what's ahead for me and the Savvy Shopkeeper community in 2024!
Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:
Website: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/ Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers
When you first hear the term “emotional adulthood,” you might think it’s connected to when our brains finish developing in our mid-twenties.
But emotional adulthood has everything to do with your awareness of how your thoughts affect your feelings—and very little to do with when your brain finished forming.
I realized I was still in emotional childhood just a few years ago, in my forties. But from that realization, I’ve grown into emotional adulthood. And I’m excited to announce that I’m in the process of becoming a certified life coach to help you reach emotional adulthood, too.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode200.
Connect With Kathy Kathy Cruz is a brick and mortar store owner and retail coach. She helps shopkeepers work less, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses through her podcast, quiz, and retail coaching mastermind. Website: www.savvyshopkeeper.com | Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
With 2024 approaching, now is the time to start your retail business forecasting!
If you’ve never done this process before, today’s episode will walk you through the first step: looking at the commitments you’ve already made, the trips you’ve already booked, and any events you know are on the books.
Listen in to learn what retail business forecasting is, how you can get started, what you can expect in 2024 based on what’s already on your calendar, and how going through this process can preemptively reduce overwhelm before the new year.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode199.
Connect With Kathy Kathy Cruz is a brick and mortar store owner and retail coach. She helps shopkeepers work less, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses through her podcast, quiz, and retail coaching mastermind. Website: www.savvyshopkeeper.com | Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
New Year, new store? If you’re like most independent retail store owners, a new year can feel like the perfect time to make a fresh start by reworking your product lines, introducing a new category, revamping your staffing…or even changing business models.
But before making such a drastic change, there are a few key things to consider. Changing business models is not a decision to make lightly, so today, I’m sharing some valid reasons to change (and some NOT change!) your business model.
Listen in to learn when you should change your business model, when you shouldn’t, and what can help you make this decision with confidence before the new year arrives.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode198.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
The Savvy Shopkeeper online shop has been revamped, renamed…and is relaunching with a Post-Black-Friday sale event!
Introducing The Shopkeeper’s Marketplace: an online shop just for indie retailers. Full of useful digital products, merch, and swag, it’s the perfect spot for indie retail store owners to find products made just for them.
Listen in to learn why I’m relaunching the shop, what you’ll find inside The Shopkeeper’s Marketplace, and all the details about the special Post-Black-Friday Sale Event.
For show notes, including links to everything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode197.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
I’m not a big gratitude journaler. I rely on my journal when I need to get things out of my head, which helps me gain clarity and see the complete picture.
But there is a straightforward gratitude exercise I love, and today, I’m sharing it with you.
Listen in to learn why this simple gratitude exercise has helped me gain a new perspective after a challenging year and how you can do it for yourself.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode196.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
With 2024 in our sights, we’re not far off from the next round of presidential elections. One of our Master Shopkeepers members, Julie, recently asked if I could share any insights into this question: “do election years affect retail sales?”
There are many small business owners—and in particular, independent retail store owners—who firmly believe that retail sales dip in presidential election years. In a recent poll on my Instagram stories, more than ⅔ of respondents said that retail sales go down in election years.
As I’ve discussed on the podcast before, though, it’s critical to make business decisions based on data and facts, not emotion (and definitely not based on word of mouth or rumors!).
Listen in to learn what the data shows about election years affecting retail sales.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode195.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Many shopkeepers avoid hosting retail store clearance sales. Whether they’re worried about the perceived value of their goods or what other store owners might think, it’s common for shopkeepers to avoid marking down their old stock. Sadly, these worries can affect their bottom line and the health of their business.
A well-executed retail store clearance sale can be an incredible opportunity to destock your store and get a healthy influx of cash! In fact, it could be your best sales day EVER.
Today, I’m sharing about the retail store clearance sale I hosted in my quaint, sister-owned boutique. Listen in to learn why I chose to have a clearance sale, how I marketed it on super-short notice, and the winning event strategy that brought in more revenue and transactions than we’d ever seen in a single day.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode194.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Many of the store owners inside Master Shopkeepers and the Savvy Shopkeeper community at large are also creatives, makers, and artists. After establishing their stores, the next question those makers ask is, “When should I wholesale in my business?”
In today’s episode, you’ll learn how to decide if it’s time to start wholesaling in your business from the founder of Proof to Product, Katie Hunt. We cover the basics of starting as a wholesaler, the outreach marketing strategy all successful makers use, and the thoughtful touchpoints needed on your customer journey.
Katie also shares the four most common mistakes brands make when expanding into wholesaling, along with her advice for store owners who want to build strong relationships with their wholesale partners.
Whether you’ve always dreamed of designing a product line for your store, are already wholesaling your products to other retailers, or are just curious to know more about the other side of indie retail, listen in for Katie’s expert insights.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode193.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Whether you’re a Savvy Starter with a newly opened storefront or a Growing Retailer expanding into a second location, your first point of contact with customers isn’t happening at your store. It’s happening on the web!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can conduct a simple retail store website homepage audit to ensure that your website is helpful, welcoming, and convinces customers to stop into your store.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode192.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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After years of leading groups with hundreds of store owners, I can confidently report that ALL POS systems go down. Yes, all of them! There’s not one system that’s better than another when it comes to this.
So if—scratch that, when—your POS system goes down, do you have a plan?
Listen to this quick, valuable episode to learn what options you have when faced with a system or internet outage so you can be prepared when it happens to you.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode191.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Credit card fees are a contentious topic among retail store owners. As credit card fees continue to rise, shopkeepers are wondering what they can do to lower this expense.
One popular solution to this issue? Charging customers for the privilege of using a credit card.
While I’m not usually one to offer prescriptive advice, this is one instance where I have a definitive stance: you shouldn’t pass credit card fees onto your customers.
Listen in to learn why you should continue to absorb the cost of credit card fees rather than charging your customers extra and what you can do to lower these fees instead.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode190.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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What’s less than 8 weeks away and right in the middle of the busiest quarter for indie retailers? It’s the biggest weekend of the retail holiday season: BFCM Small Business Saturday Weekend.
With this mega retail weekend quickly approaching, it’s time to start planning! Listen in to learn why indie retailers love this weekend, which days to focus on, and how to prepare with my newest resource.
For show notes and links to everything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode189.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Did you know you can sell from your window display, even when your store is closed?
In today’s episode, I’m sharing my QR code tutorial for brick and mortar stores. This is a fun way to make your window display attract potential customers, provide them with product information, and even drive them to your online shop!
For show notes, including a link to get the tutorial and template I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode188.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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I get asked a LOT of questions about Master Shopkeepers. As a retail store mastermind coach, I completely understand why you have questions and want to put your mind at ease.
With applications closing for 2023 on September 30, I’m answering the five most common questions store owners ask me about Master Shopkeepers. Listen in for the five Qs & As—and learn about the two incredible bonuses you’ll get if you join before Q4!
For show notes, including everything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode187.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Being a mompreneur is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also challenging to find a balance between motherhood and owning a business. We love our kids, but we love our businesses, too. Finding the time to do it all while still making ourselves happy, well, that can seem impossible at times.
No one knows this better than Megan Moran, a third-generation mompreneur, the founder of Mompreneur Co., and of course, mother of two. She’s on a mission to give mompreneurs the tools and space to help them live the present and productive lifestyle they crave.
Listen in to hear how Megan became a mompreneur and learn how strategy, support, and self-care can help you mompreneur with ease!
Visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode186 for links to anything mentioned in this episode, including Megan’s generous gift for Savvy Shopkeeper podcast listeners.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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I can’t tell you how often I’ve seen a shopkeeper open a second retail store location and want to tell them, “Wait, don’t do that quite yet!” I’ve also seen many store owners go on to close their second retail store location later on.
This doesn’t mean that second, third, or fourth locations don’t work out for ALL retailers. They absolutely can work! But before you open a second retail store location, there are a few things to consider.
In this short and sweet episode, I’m sharing eight things retailers should consider before opening a second retail store location.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode185.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Your brain might tell you that every other business immediately succeeds—and that you’re a failure when yours doesn’t. But what if you could reframe your failures as experiments instead?
Failing versus experimenting might seem subtle, but this reframe can be a pivotal mindset shift for retail business owners!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing my 3-step process for reframing your thoughts around your business’s success and failures so you can be a happier, more resilient, and more successful indie shopkeeper.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode184.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Over the past few weeks, I’ve shared why an operations manual is beneficial, five systems you should document for your retail store, and a free resource to give you a head start on creating your operations manual.
All of these podcast episodes have had one goal: to help indie retail store owners optimize their operations. Today, I’m excited to share that we can work together on this same goal inside a 5-week, small group program!
Optimize Your Operations is intentionally designed to help brick and mortar shopkeepers at every level build their operations manuals (without the “where do I even start?!” overwhelm).
To learn more about this program and grab one of the limited spots, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode183.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Whenever I talk about creating an operations manual, getting started seems to be the main roadblock keeping store owners from creating theirs. From figuring out what chapters to include to how thorough each section should be, just outlining your retail store operations manual table of contents is daunting!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing a brand new FREE resource with you: the Retail Operations Roadmap! Listen in to learn what’s included and how you can get started.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode182.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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A fact that might surprise you: EVERY indie store owner has a set of brick and mortar store systems. Yes, even those of you who don’t yet have an operations manual! You might not have them anywhere but inside your head, but you do have a set of systems and processes that you follow.
We're diving deeper into operations manuals in the second installment of this four-part series. Listen in to learn the five key systems that every indie retailer should document, including one system you can easily document today.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode181.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Creating an operations manual can feel intimidating and overwhelming, especially for indie/micro business owners. That’s why in today’s episode, I’m sharing the top eight benefits of a retail store operations manual.
Whether you’ve got just one employee (you!) or lots of employees at several locations, an operations manual is where you can outline all of your systems, processes, and guidelines to keep your business running smoothly.
Listen in to this episode and the ones that follow in this mini-series on operations manuals for retail stores for everything you need to know about creating this critical guidebook for your business.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode180.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Exciting news: the 2023-2024 Savvy Shopkeeper Digital Planner is now available! I am thrilled to share what I believe to be the BEST planner for independent retail store owners with you.
The planner has a new look, new worksheets, and new bonuses to help you work less, profit more, and grow. Listen in to hear what’s new with this year’s version of the planner, how the planner can help you and your retail business, and where you can snag your copy of the planner before the incredible early-bird bonuses expire.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode179.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website and click on “Credit Card Reform” in my main menu or click HERE to complete the Voter Voice form.
I recently traveled to Washington DC to advocate for credit card reform on behalf of the Savvy Shopkeeper community and here's why...
Visa and Mastercard dominate the U.S. credit card market. They account for 80 % of all credit card volume and have blocked competing networks that offer lower fees and better security from processing transactions made on their cards. This lack of competition has caused credit card swipe fees to rise year after year. And since they are a percentage of the transaction cost, they increase with every cent of inflation.
A bipartisan bill in Congress can help fix this broken and unfair system. The Credit Card Competition Act makes important reforms to require that there be at least two competing processing networks enabled on each card. One could still be Visa or Mastercard but the other would have to be an unaffiliated independent network like NYCE, Star or Shazam, or even American Express or Discover. These reforms have the potential to save American businesses and consumers an estimated $15 billion per year.
Contact Congress today and tell lawmakers to co-sponsor the Credit Card Competition Act now.
Visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website and click on “Credit Card Reform” in my main menu or click HERE to complete the Voter Voice form.
The 2023-2024 Savvy Shopkeeper Digital Planner is launching soon! That means it’s the perfect time to revisit the five things I wish I’d known about planning for my retail business early on.
When your store is brand new (or still just a dream!), it’s challenging to think about the future because you’re focused on the now.
During my Aspiring Retailer and Savvy Starter stages, knowing how to plan would have been incredibly helpful. And now that I’ve learned about planning, it’s a key part of my journey as a shopkeeper!
Listen in to the five things indie retailers aren’t taught—but should know!—about planning.
For show notes, including links to the resources mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode178.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said, “just grab a good old pen and paper” on the podcast. Not only am I a fan of getting things out of my head, but I’m also a fan of writing things down so I don’t forget them.
But after five years of paper piling up on my desk, I was beyond frustrated. I never felt I could find what I was looking for, and my notes overwhelmed me! So in 2022, I switched from paper to digital note-taking, and it’s been revolutionary.
The latest version of the Savvy Shopkeeper Digital Planner launching soon, and I want to make sure we’re all on the same (digital) page about why moving from pen and paper to stylus and tablet is so helpful for busy indie retailers.
Listen in for the 2023 update on how digital note taking is working for me AND a replay of episode 138, where I shared six reasons you should make the switch from paper to digital notes.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode177.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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As I looked back at all of the content I’ve written, recorded, and shared with store owners, I realized I’ve covered how to destock your store more than nearly any other topic! There are at least three episodes of this podcast and a few blog posts that address destocking your store in one way or another.
In today’s episode, I’m excited to share a new option for destocking your store: The Destash Group for Retail Store Owners Hosted by Savvy Shopkeeper! Listen in to learn what this group can do for you and how to join.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode176.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
“Growing” and “scaling” are so often used interchangeably, especially in business contexts. I’ve always wanted to know what these words truly meant, so I read countless articles about the definition of growing versus scaling a retail store. Ultimately, I still felt confused and was left without a clear answer.
Attendees at my Virtual Conference asked about the difference between growing and scaling on the first day of our weekend together, and I’m so thankful they did. It gave me the motivation I needed to finally determine the answer to this question—both for myself and for all of you!
I dug deep, did some more reading and research, and finally had an a-ha moment. Listen in to learn what the true definitions of growing and scaling are, how they apply to indie retail businesses, and what your goals should look like based on these terms.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode175.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Alex Sanso first found her love of souvenirs, gifts, and merchandise at the happiest place on Earth: Walt Disney World. She spent several years working in the creative department as a merchandise designer before moving to a small island in Washington State with her family.
Right off the bat, Alex noticed that Bainbridge Island was home to a plethora of beautiful gift shops—but there wasn’t much merchandise that focused on Bainbridge itself.
With Seattle day trippers, Alaskan cruisers, and other tourists visiting Bainbridge Island on a daily basis, Alex knew that souvenirs to mark these special visits would sell well. That kicked off her journey towards opening Island Life Artisan Gifts.
Listen in to learn how Alex eventually opened her shop, why souvenirs are so special to her and her customers, and how joining Master Shopkeepers has changed her perspective as a newer store owner.
For show notes, including links to connect with Alex, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode174.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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One of the best ways for indie retailers to market their products on Facebook and Instagram is through shoppable social media posts.
But Meta, the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, has recently announced a change to how these posts function—and it’s definitely going to affect both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce store owners.
Listen in for a quick review of the basics of shoppable social media posts. Then, we’ll dive into this change and how it will impact your retail business going forward.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode173.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
As an indie retail business owner offering services and running your retail store, you might struggle with pricing your worth—especially if you’re lacking the confidence to acknowledge that your time, energy, and effort is valuable.
Not only does setting the right price help you make a profit, but it also communicates your value to your current and potential customers. In today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can effectively price your worth, attract committed clients, and create a more sustainable business environment for everyone.
Listen in to hear my personal pricing journey and the top reasons you should be pricing your worth for any services you offer. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode172.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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After graduating from law school, finding a traditional 9-5 position, and hating it, Nicole Swartz decided to forge her own path as an entrepreneur by starting a beauty brand. Two years in, she received a cease and desist letter for her brand’s name and had to change everything overnight.
She realized that she’d forgotten to focus on the legal side of things—and after checking in with her women entrepreneur friends, she discovered that they were also neglecting to protect their retail brands.
Now, Nicole runs Sprout Law, specializing in trademarking brand names, logos, slogans, and other assets for women-owned brands.
In this special episode of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, Kathy and Nicole discuss what it takes to trademark a retail business name, the upfront and ongoing costs of doing so, and how retailers can legally protect themselves.
For show notes visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode171
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
In this bonus episode, I'm sharing 10 things I learned from hosting the 2023 Savvy Shopkeeper Virtual Conference. This is the first Virtual Conference I hosted and it most likely won't be the last! I learned a lot about myself and a lot about all of you.
This is an unedited, casual conversation with all of you - I hope you enjoy this episode!
Have anything to share about this episode or the Virtual Conference? DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/
When faced with a business-impacting decision, we usually turn to our trusty friend Google first. But there are some questions that even Google can’t answer—especially when it comes to the intricacies of the technology that runs our stores.
If you’ve been considering the Shopify point-of-sale, though, I’ve got good news: I can connect you with an actual human to answer all your questions! Listen in to learn how you can speak with a Shopify representative and ask all of your questions about using Shopify for YOUR business.
Be sure to visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode170 to fill out the form and be connected to a Shopify rep!
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
It’s all too common for retailers at every stage to feel confused, frustrated, and disheartened—especially when it comes to how much they can pay themselves.
But most retailers don’t realize that their success, growth, and take-home pay come down to a single shocking metric! Listen in to learn what this key metric is, how it’s calculated, and what you can do to improve your bottom line.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode169.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
When a new store or competitor pops up, many independent retailers feel a sense of not being enough, tension, anxiety, annoyance, and fear—lots and lots of fear. But competition in retail is a GOOD thing!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing a case study for what happens when we believe that competition in retail is positive—and how that belief can help us improve our stores. If you’ve ever been worried about the store next door, you’ll want to listen in.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode168.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Do you ever find yourself checking your email inbox over and over again throughout the day? It’s so common among entrepreneurs, especially when we have customer service questions, discussions with employees/vendors/contractors, and other critical information delivered to us via email. If you’re opening or refreshing your email more often than you’d like, it might be time to consider breaking the habit! In this episode, I’ll share how constantly checking our inboxes affects our brains and what I’m doing to break my email-checking addiction.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode167.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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On a recent trip to Miami, my family and I took an incredible Uber ride—and learned some surprising business lessons from our driver, Luis!
Listen in to learn the three key things every business owner should focus on and what we should never underestimate when running a business.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode166.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Choosing a point-of-sale (POS) system is one of the first and most impactful decisions that an indie retailer makes. Your POS software and hardware are how you collect payment for the goods you offer in your store, and in some cases, they’re also the tech supporting your e-commerce website!
If you’re debating between Square versus Shopify for your brick-and-mortar store, listen to this episode so you can make an informed decision that works best for your retail business.
For show notes, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode165.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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In this episode, we're going to talk about something that isn't always pleasant, but that we have to tackle: why independent retail stores fail.
From stubborn and arrogant owners to poor financial management and lack of systems, we'll explore how these factors can lead to the downfall of a retail business. We'll also touch on the importance of mindset and treating your store like a job, not a jobby.
If you're an indie retailer who wants their business to succeed, this episode is a must-listen!
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode164.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
We’d all love to automate more tasks in our retail businesses, especially when there’s so much for us to do each day!
Well there’s a new type of software on the scene that some retailers are finding helpful for writing-related tasks. It’s artificial intelligence software, particularly chat textbots like ChatGPT.
You’ve probably heard the buzz around these softwares, but do you know how to use them in your retail business yet? Listen in to learn what AI software is, how you can use it in your retail business, and what the future holds as artificial intelligence continues to develop.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode163.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Tickets to the 2023 Savvy Shopkeeper Virtual Conference, "Plant Seeds For Retail Growth" are now available! 2-Day Event: Sunday, May 21, 2023 and Monday, May 22, 2023; 11am - 6pm EST Momentum Day: Tuesday, May 23, 2023
Listen to this episode to learn all about this year's Virtual Conference.
Click here to see the full itinerary, ticket options, and a FAQ section to help answer some common questions: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/virtual-conference
It’s the first anniversary of the Savvy Shopkeeper Quiz! In that time, nearly a thousand brick-and-mortar store owners have taken the quiz.
The quiz helps retailers identify what stage of their shopkeeping journey they’re in AND gives them a comprehensive roadmap of resources to help them work less, profit more, and grow.
Listen in to hear the backstory behind why I created this tool, what it’s taught me about indie retailers, and specific insights from each stage of the shopkeeping journey.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode162.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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Hitting a slow season in retail can be disheartening, especially for indie retailers. It’s easy to get discouraged when sales are down!
But instead of focusing on the lack of sales, let’s consider how to make the most of your slow season—and what you can do to profit during it.
Listen in to learn the greatest gift of a slow season, what you shouldn’t focus on, and what you absolutely should do to make the most of a slow season in your business.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode161.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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The people you surround yourself with constantly influence everything you do, from the clothing you wear to how you run your business to what beliefs you hold!
And while you can counteract some of this subconscious conditioning with your thoughts, it’s hard to do that if you don’t recognize the types of people you surround yourself with in the first place.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing a bit of my backstory, the limiting beliefs I’ve overcome, and how changing the types of people I surround myself with has made a world of difference in my life.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode160.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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In Q4 of 2022, I found myself reverting to old thought patterns, adding more onto my already full plate, and finally driving myself to burnt-out exhaustion. It was a very tough season that anyone could find themselves in.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing my experience with the river of misery, the thoughts that were keeping me there, and the four ways that I was able to get to the other side of burnout.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode159.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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After several years of attending AmericasMart in Atlanta, I was thrilled to attend a new-to-me wholesale market: Las Vegas Market!
We had so much fun seeing how Las Vegas Market compares to AmericasMart, connecting with vendors, and meeting up with members of Master Shopkeepers.
Listen in to hear what I learned at Las Vegas Market and how this market experience stacked up against our tried and true favorite in Atlanta.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode158.
In this bonus episode of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast I’m sharing some Savvy Shopkeeper updates and making an announcement!
- Follow me on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/
- Learn more about The CoLab Events here: https://thecolabevents.com/
- If you want to learn more about Master Shopkeepers or apply to join, click here: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/groupmembership
- If you want to get on the waitlist for the first Savvy Shopkeeper Virtual Conference, click here: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/waitlist
I’ll be back with regular episodes next week where I’ll share my takeaways from the Las Vegas Market.
Master Shopkeeper Stories are back! The first of the series is Anne, a Master Shopkeeper member.
Anne was set to take over her father’s consulting business when he retired. But another idea nagged at her: opening, running, and scaling a retail store.
Anne’s dream took off quickly, with her first location turning a profit in her second year of business and her second location opening soon after. While growing Peachtree Street, Anne continued parenting her three children on her own.
Listen in to learn more about Anne’s journey, how she balances single parenthood with shopkeeping, and how Master Shopkeepers has supported her through it all.
For show notes, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode157.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Joining a business mastermind is both rewarding and intimidating, especially if you’ve never participated in one before!
If you’re considering joining a business mastermind, then this episode is where you should start. Listen in to learn why masterminds are so valuable, the six things you should consider before joining, and why Master Shopkeepers is the best group coaching option for independent brick-and-mortar store owners.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in this episode, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode156.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
You’ve probably heard the term SEO before, but understanding what it means, why it’s essential, and how to implement it can be challenging!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can get more potential customers to visit your retail store’s website with six simple yet powerful search engine optimization fields.
For show notes, including links to the SEO tools mentioned in this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode155.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Every January, I’m excited to visit AmericasMart in Atlanta. Their annual market week is when we put in our orders for lots of the merchandise we carry in our store. It’s also an excellent opportunity to reconnect with our vendors, discover up-and-coming brands, and meet retailers from around the country.
I always learn something new at AmericasMart, and today, I’m sharing my takeaways with you! Listen in to learn how the pandemic has affected the market, what prep work I do to get ready, and how to best navigate this massive trade center.
For show notes, including links to any resources I’ve mentioned, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode154.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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There’s a question that keeps lots of shopkeepers up at night: “How am I making money, but not making any money?!”
They have revenue coming into their business, but they’re still unable to turn a profit or pay themselves. Unfortunately, that question will continue to keep them tossing and turning without a clear understanding of their numbers.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can get that crystal clear understanding of where your business stands—along with personalized coaching from yours truly!
Listen in to hear about one of my best, simple tools for indie retailers, the Retail Profit Pie, and how you can get yours made FOR you through January 21, 2023.
For show notes, including the link to get your personalized Retail Profit Pie, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode153.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
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If you dream of being your own boss and are still working in a full-time career, this episode is for you!
In fact, this episode was inspired by two of our Master Shopkeepers members, Kate and Kristin. They’re both working in full-time careers and are store owners. They recently asked me a series of questions about how I took the leap from full-time, steady-paycheck-employee to going all-in on entrepreneurship.
Listen in to learn how I managed a full-time career while shopkeeping and building a family, what I needed before quitting my career, and what I wish I had done differently along the way.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode152.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
One of the most important steps in opening a retail business is signing your lease.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing ten tips about brick-and-mortar leases. Listen in to learn why you NEED a lease, a few helpful clauses/terms to look for, and who should sign your lease with you depending on where you live.
Whether it’s your first time signing a commercial lease for a brick-and-mortar space or your lease is coming up for renewal, these ten tips will help you navigate this tricky process.
For show notes, including any resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode151.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
So many retail business owners open stores for flexibility and freedom, but all too often, that gets replaced with the hustle and grind. Our businesses tend to consume our whole lives, which makes us feel out of alignment.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing my favorite quick exercise for evaluating what I’m doing well, what I could improve on, and what I want to accomplish in the six key areas of my life. Listen to learn how to do this exercise yourself and get a free worksheet to guide you!
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in today’s episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode150.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
When it comes to making decisions, it’s all too easy to get bogged down by mental drama. That’s why it is so helpful for your mental health as a business owner to LEAN ON DATA.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing five examples of decisions that are easier to make with data AND how data-driven decisions can significantly lighten your mental load. Listen in to learn about this powerful concept!
For show notes, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode149.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
When I think back to BEFORE I opened my retail store, I remember the excitement, nervousness…and a person who truly had no idea what they were doing! I didn’t know what I didn’t know, and I had NO idea how much would be involved with opening.
I was okay with not knowing. But goodness, I would have appreciated some form of guidance or a list to check off through it all!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing one of my best resources with you: my Checklist for Opening a Brick and Mortar Store. Listen to this quick episode to learn what the checklist covers, who it’s for, and how it can help you with your first (or second, or third!) retail store opening.
For show notes, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode148.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
After months of deliberating, considering, and evaluating, I recently made the hard decision to close the Shopkeeper’s Lab and focus exclusively on Master Shopkeepers.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing some of the GOOD that can come from a tough decision. Because as much as I work on my mindset, I never want to act like I have “perfected” doing hard things or that I don’t feel any emotion in my businesses.
Listen in to learn why I came to this decision, how group members reacted, and all of the positives I’ve learned through this process.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit savvyshopkeeper.com/episode147.
Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Full show notes for this episode are coming soon!
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Earlier this year, I launched the Savvy Shopkeeper Quiz. After taking the quiz, you’ll know what stage of your shopkeeping journey you’re in and get a few free resources hand-picked with shopkeepers like you in mind. It’s beneficial for shopkeepers to understand WHERE they are on their journey, and the quiz gives shopkeepers that clarity!
In today’s episode, I’m diving deep into the fifth stage of the shopkeeping journey: the Retail CEO stage. Listen in to learn what makes Retail CEOs unique and the ten characteristics that best describe shopkeepers at this stage.
For show notes, including any resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode142.
For show notes, including links to the resources mentioned throughout this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode141.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Thank you for listening, subscribing, and telling me how helpful this podcast is to YOU and your business!
*I'm celebrating this milestone by doing something I've never done before. Taking a break!
I'll be back in November with new episodes.
Listen to this shortie episode to find out why and how I'll be celebrating during my break.*
Want to stay in touch? Sign up for newsletter on the home page of my website: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/ and follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/
Have a great October!
The 2022 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat is over, and I have SO much to share with you! I’ve only been home a few days, and I’m still processing all of the magical moments from this year’s retreat at Frügthaven Farm.
One thing I am ready to share with you, though, is a recap of my presentation about retail planning. Listen in to learn about Poor Planning Polly, what her year looks like, and the solution to her woes.
For show notes, including links to the resources mentioned throughout this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode141.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Finding a planner that meets the needs of independent retailers has been a struggle for far too long.
I’ve heard countless shopkeepers tell me that they’ve tried planners only to find out they don’t offer what they need…and then the planner ends up in the garbage, with both money and paper wasted.
Thankfully, the search for the perfect planner is finally over! The Savvy Shopkeeper DIGITAL Planner is here to help you grow as a person, a small business owner, and a retailer for the next 12 months.
Listen in to learn all about this detailed, multi-faceted business tool made just for shopkeepers. For show notes, including the direct link to buy your copy of the planner, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode140.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
When your store is brand new (or still just a dream!), it’s challenging to think about the future because you’re focused on the now.
During my Aspiring Retailer and Savvy Starter stages, knowing how to plan would have been incredibly helpful. And now that I’ve learned about planning, it’s a key part of my journey as a shopkeeper!
Listen in to the five things indie retailers aren’t taught—but should know!—about planning.
For show notes, including links to the resources mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode139.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at Savvy Shopkeeper
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said just grab a “good old pen and paper” on the podcast. Not only am I a fan of getting things out of my head, but I’m also a fan of writing things down, so I don’t forget them.
But after five years of paper piling up on my desk, I was beyond frustrated. I never felt I could find what I was looking for, and my notes overwhelmed me!
So this year, I switched from paper to digital note-taking, and it’s been revolutionary for me. Listen in to learn why I love taking notes digitally, what hardware I’m using, and how you can make this switch for yourself.
For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode138.
Learn more about Kathy Cruz and Savvy Shopkeeper at https://savvyshopkeeper.com/
Follow Kathy on Instagram (@savvyshopkeeper)
Julie had always loved to craft as a hobby. After the loss of her newborn son, Julie needed something to do with her hands—and from there, her business bloomed.
Now, with 25 years of retail business ownership under her belt, Julie’s business is blooming once again. Attending the 2021 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat changed Julie’s perspective and helped her step into her role as CEO.
Listen in to hear Julie’s incredible story, how her business has blossomed this year compared to last, and her three pieces of advice for retail store owners after 25 years of experience.
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As a people person with a passion for numbers, Brittany had always dreamed of owning her own business. With five years of experience as a certified public accountant in hand, Brittany was ready for a new challenge: purchasing an existing vendor shop.
Listen in to learn Brittany’s best tips for running a vendor market, how she keeps her financials clean, the key employee that contributes to her store’s success, and what she’s learned from being in Master Shopkeepers.
Visit Savvy Shopkeeper to listen to this episode and other shopkeeper stories.
One of the things that shopkeepers struggle with the most is time management. It seems like there’s a never-ending list of tasks and just not enough time in the day.
Time management, though, is a learned skill. There’s no magic pill, system, or solution that adds more time to your day, but you CAN get better at managing your time!
Listen in to learn how I manage my time and the KEY mindset shift that has made all the difference for me through five years of running two businesses. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode135.
Shopkeeper Stories are back! We’re kicking off this round with Jessica Thompson, owner of Bee Joyful Shop in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Jessica started her journey as a maker with just one product: reusable beeswax food wraps. After several years of showing at markets and selling at a monthly community event, Jessica was ready to open her eco refill shop in October of 2020.
Visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode134 to listen in to learn more about Jessica’s journey, how her savvy social media presence supports her business, and what she loves most about being a member of Master Shopkeepers.
In this bonus episode, I'm sharing a recent experience I had where I attended a good friend's small business retreat and the "mental drama" that unfolded before I committed to attending.
Our thinking often holds us back but it doesn't have to be this way!
The power of connecting in real life is craved more than ever and it's something I personally craved and needed too, even it my brain was telling me otherwise.
The cart to ticket sales for the 2022 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat WILL close on Monday, August 15, 2022 at 4pm EST. To learn more and grab your seat, visit here: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/retreat
To learn more about Megan and The Mompreneur Guide, visit here: https://themompreneurguide.com/
Growing the online part of your business takes time and effort. Just like our brick-and-mortar spaces, it’s essential to dedicate some energy to this part of our business. Online marketing is crucial to growing and building a solid omnichannel retail business.
In Master Shopkeepers, a group member with a fantastic brand—and some experience in marketing before opening her retail business!—recently asked for tips on growing the new eCommerce part of her business. Listen in to hear the nine marketing tips I shared with her to help her grow her eCommerce store.
For show notes, including links to any resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode133.
Each year, I survey the Savvy Shopkeeper community to learn more about you, your struggles, and how Savvy Shopkeeper can better help you on your shopkeeping journeys.
I get to know our group members pretty well, but the survey gives me an opportunity to learn more about podcast listeners and email subscribers, too!
Listen in to learn more about this year’s survey results, what I’ve learned from it, and how your responses are guiding the future of Savvy Shopkeeper.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode132.
One of the most underutilized yet affordable and EASY marketing tools for retailers is…
…email marketing.
Why is it so underutilized? There are lots of reasons! However, many of the reasons I hear from retailers are mindset roadblocks we put in our own way.
Listen in to learn the top eight roadblocks I hear time and time again. And be sure to stick around to the end to learn about the first-ever Savvy Shopkeeper Email Marketing Challenge and how you can join!
Sign up for the challenge at www.savvyshopkeeper.com/emailchallenge! And if you’d like to read the show notes for this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode131.
There are two schools of thought regarding the current economy and how it affects independent retail businesses.
Group number one says, “Don’t listen to all the hype and negativity in the media. Retailers are NOT struggling right now, and many are up!”
Group number two says, “Inflation is on the rise. We see it everywhere, and there’s no denying it. No one is shopping, my local economy and residents are hurting, and sales are way down.”
Whichever school you subscribe to, we can all agree that the economy affects every retailer differently! Listen to today’s episode to learn what you can do to protect your business both in the current economic state and whenever you face a cash flow crunch in the future.
For show notes, including links to all of the resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode130
“Automation” can be intimidating, especially when you have to invest your time and effort into setting up new software or learning a new system.
But automation is a massive timesaver for indie retail business owners! It’s one of the best ways that we can work LESS. Best of all, the time we can save through automating our repetitive, day-to-day tasks can be put towards the big ideas that help us profit more and grow!
Listen in to learn what automation is, why it’s helpful, and the ten tasks that all retailers should consider automating. For show notes, including links to any resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode129.
It’s easy to get stuck in autopilot when we’re marketing our indie retail businesses, especially when we’ve heard the same marketing “rules” over and over again!
One of the most common rules you’ll hear is to focus 80 percent of your social media content on engaging or educational content, and the other 20 percent on selling.
But with social media coming in a distant second (or even dead last, in some studies) compared to other marketing efforts, the return on your social media effort might not be reflected in your sales!
So, where should you focus your effort instead? Listen in to learn where the 80/20 misconception comes from and how to actually apply it to your marketing strategy. For show notes, including links to any resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode128.
I'm hosting a FREE masterclass on Monday, June 27, 2022, at 2 PM EST to help you create a cash flow management system!
Listen to today’s episode to learn why I’m hosting this free masterclass, what you can expect to learn if you attend, and some essential base knowledge to help you prep for the class.
Register for the free Cash is Queen Masterclass at https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/cashflow!
For show notes and links to all resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode127.
I’m excited to bring you a new intermittent series called Shopkeeper Guest Interviews. Many talented store owners in our Master Shopkeepers and Shopkeeper’s Lab groups have different experiences, knowledge, and perspectives than me—and I want to share their ideas with you.
Today’s guests are Dani and Tim Martin. They’re the owners of The Cotton Shed Market, a vendor market located in Bryant, Arkansas, and the home decor store High Cotton Decor (located inside their vendor store!). They’ve worked together for nearly 6 years and married for 17.
Listen in to hear Dani and Tim’s seven tips for working with your spouse…and staying married! For show notes, visit https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode126
Today, I’m sharing a coaching moment with Sam, the owner of Heck Studios. Sam was our first hire at The Salvaged Boutique six years ago and has done tons of design work for Savvy Shopkeeper. She also writes our weekly newsletter!
On a recent call together, Sam told me about a viral TikTok she’d posted for her custom embroidery business—and how she was now flooded with the inquiries she’d dreamed of. Listen in to hear me coach Sam through her feelings of overwhelm and embrace this new period of abundance in her business.
For show notes, including links to Sam’s viral TikTok videos, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode125
While many of us turn to the internet when we have a specific business-related question, books are a way to go deeper on the more abstract ideas we grapple with as business owners.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing 8 books I’ve found valuable and helpful along my entrepreneurial journey. From money mindset to habit building to time management, these books have changed my perspective and helped me grow as a business owner.
For show notes, including links to purchase any of the books I’ve mentioned, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode124
We often think that our store, the physical space, or the merchandise generates revenue. But if we dig a little deeper, our BRAIN creates revenue.
Listen in to learn how our brains create value, who we need to listen to most, and what steps you can take to solve the problems that matter to your customers.
For show notes, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode123
Being an entrepreneur is challenging, I get it! But the lows don't define us and they don't have to consume us either. Once retailers can accept that there will always be highs and lows in retail and in life, the not-so-good moments can become easier to handle and process.
YOUR thinking is an incredible asset. Do you want to choose thinking that keeps you down and/or in the dumps OR do you want to choose thinking that accepts there's both good and bad in business all while keeping you moving forward?
YOU get to choose!
I hinted at this a couple weeks ago but I'm currently experiencing a "season" in business, my own store is expanding! Needless to say, a store expansion is a BIG deal and has required quite a bit of my time.
This means some things had to get pushed down on my priority list because our Grand Reopening became THE priority.
In episode 120, I shared that the store I co-own with my sister was expanding. In this bonus episode, I thought I'd share some quick updates. Updates about expanding, the retreat, and the Master Shopkeepers application which is opening up soon!
I’m excited to announce the 2022 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat! This intentional and thoughtful event is the perfect way for shopkeepers to come together, learn from each other, and treat themselves.
Listen in to learn about this year’s theme, our incredible venue, and all the intentional details of this event.
Be sure to get your ticket at www.savvyshopkeeper.com/retreat!
Has one of your friends, loved ones, or acquaintances ever said, “how’s that little store of yours doing?” These comments—intentionally or unintentionally!—can come across as condescending or demeaning. And they don’t just come from people we know. Sometimes the comments we get from strangers on the internet can feel pointed, too!
While we can’t control what other people say about our retail stores, we CAN manage how we think about their comments. Listen in to learn my 3-step process for dealing with negative comments. For show notes, visit https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode121
I have some exciting news to share: the store I co-own with my sister is expanding!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing how and why we’re expanding, seven things to consider if you’re curious about expanding your retail store, and a personal update of what’s on the horizon in the next few months for both Savvy Shopkeeper and our retail space.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode120
For the past two years, I’ve been working on a special project for Savvy Shopkeeper. Today, I’m excited to announce that the first part of this project is ready for you: the Savvy Shopkeeper quiz!
This project has been a labor of love, and I’m so excited to share more about it with you. Listen in to learn more about the quiz, how it can help you on your shopkeeping journey, and what I’ll be releasing next as part of this project.
For show notes and a link to take the quiz, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode119
When retailers hear about Open-to-Buy, or OTB, it sounds really appealing! A tool that tells us when to buy, how much to buy, and keeps us on budget and profitable sounds like the magic solution to inventory issues.
But there’s a lot to learn and do before implementing OTB. Listen in to learn exactly what OTB is and everything you need to have in place before using it.
For show notes, visit https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode118
As retailers, we use A LOT of software, tools, and products for our stores. But with so many options and features available, it can really help to see what other retailers are using.
I’ve recently created a new guide for retailers with all the tools, products, services, and software programs I recommend. Listen in to learn more about what’s included and how you can access it!
For show notes, visit https://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode117
Whether you’re an aspiring shopkeeper dreaming of opening your first store or a long-time shopkeeper preparing to expand, move, or open a second location—this episode is for you!
Today I’m sharing 10 lessons that retail store owners wish they’d known before opening their retail store. These lessons came from either myself or shopkeepers in our community, so I hope you’ll take these lessons to heart and learn from our experiences, mistakes, naivety, and ignorance.
For show notes with links to all the resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode116
While I was on my much-delayed honeymoon vacation (2 ½ years later), the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast hit 100,000 downloads!
To celebrate, I’m answering rapid-fire questions from our community and announcing a giveaway! Listen in to learn how you can enter.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode115
One of my values for Savvy Shopkeeper is to empower shopkeepers—especially women—to pay themselves. Sometimes, that means kicking fear to the curb and raising prices in our stores.
But raising prices can be challenging, especially if you’re worried about how your customers will react. Listen in to learn when to raise your prices, how to do it in a kind and firm way, and hear about my personal experience with charging more for my work.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode114
Whether you’re just starting or already growing your retail store, deciding how you’re going to fund your business can be a challenge. Do you take on debt? Do you fund everything yourself? Do you look for a business partner who can invest?
In today’s episode, I’m sharing nine potential funding options for small retail businesses. Listen in to learn what all of your options are, as well as the risks and benefits of each. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode113
Crime is a reality for retailers of all sizes. And while I’m not an expert in loss prevention, I did have a 20-year career in law enforcement before becoming a shopkeeper.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing tips from my own experience and from our group members to help keep you, your team, and your store safe. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode112
Every retailer experiences slow seasons. But it can be tough not to take a slow month personally—especially if you’re having a quiet January after a fantastic December or Q4!
So what can you do to make it through or even embrace a slow season? Listen in to learn the mindset shifts that have helped me deal with slow seasons as a shopkeeper and how I’ve reframed slow seasons in both my businesses. For show notes, including links to anything mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode111
Time management can be a touchy subject with shopkeepers because we are overwhelmed with all of our daily tasks—and we don’t manage our minds around this topic.
So what can we do to improve our time management? Listen in to hear about my own struggles with time management, learn the truth about time that you need to accept, and the belief that has changed everything for me and my coaching clients.
For show notes, including a list of other episodes related to time management, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode110
Many years ago, my sister and I considered moving to a different brick-and-mortar location. The first question a commercial realtor asked us was, “what is your sales per square foot?”
I’m sure the look on my face said it all! Her question is what first prompted me to fall into the Google black hole. To save you the hassle, listen in as I share what sales per square foot measures, how to calculate it, and what your SPSF means against a general benchmark for indie retailers.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode109.
Many of the shopkeepers in the Savvy Shopkeeper community have had aspiring store owners—usually complete strangers!—DM them on Instagram or walk into their stores and ask to learn from them. Although some of these requests can be malicious, most of the time, they’re made with the best of intentions.
How can you empower yourself and these aspiring retailers when they ask for help? Or, if you’re an aspiring retailer, how can you ask for help with kindness and respect? Listen in to hear my tips for setting and respecting boundaries. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode108.
If I look back at pictures of our store when we first opened, I cringe. I can’t believe people shopped with us! But you know what, they did—and many have stayed on the journey with us.
Over the past eight years, we’ve worked hard to learn everything we can about merchandising, store layout, and displays. Listen in to hear some of my best tips for how to quickly improve your store merchandising and create a comfortable shopping experience for your customers.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode107
Welcome to episode 106 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast. I’m your host, Kathy Cruz.
We’re wrapping up our 100 episode celebration today! To celebrate this milestone (it’s a big one in podcasting) we decided to share 6 of the most popular previously published episodes. And today you’re getting the last replay.
Today’s replay is episode 42, Women, Stop Diminishing Yourselves
I’m ending this replay series with an episode that is MORE important than anything else I may teach because our mindset and how we treat ourselves is the FOUNDATION for everything we do!
I have nothing to really add and there isn’t anything I feel I need to say to preface the replay of this episode other than WE CAN ALL LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE and find it helpful or find someone to share it with because they need to hear what I’m saying.
I hope you appreciated this replay series. Whether it was your first time listening or 2nd or 3rd time listening to any of these episodes, I genuinely hope they were helpful and valuable.
It’s still amazing to me that I hit 100 episodes on this podcast. Starting this podcast has been one of the most rewarding experiences. It’s a LOT of work, requires a LOT of discipline, and involves a team of incredibly talented women who help make this happen every week so I would be remiss if I didn’t mention them - because I certainly don’t do this alone.
Katie - Voiced by Katie
Jaimie - Jaimie Lee Creative
Jaycelyn - JS Virtually
The Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast recently ranked 153 in the Entrepreneur category in the United States. This is HUGE. If you see some of the podcasts in the top 100, you’ll know what I mean. I know we can hit the top 100 in 2022… AND we can stay there consistently. In the Instagram Blueprint episode, one thing I said repeatedly was consistency. This is a trait as entrepreneurs that we all tend to embrace and do well. Consistency is KEY.
I want to wrap this up by saying that the voice in my head is more empowering than ever. It’s stronger, it lifts me up, and the confidence that results from this feels INCREDIBLE. I wish all of this for you too!
A great way to start building this mindset muscle is to listen or re-listen to Episode 42 and here it is...
The 2022 Retail CEO Challenge is here! This is one offer that I often receive messages about! Many of you have asked for me to bring this back after I hosted the 2021 Retail CEO Challenge.
So I brought it back and I made improvements to this year's challenge! The challenge and everything that comes with it is $197. When you sign up for the challenge, you’ll receive…
- Access to the Shopkeeper’s Planning and Tracking Worksheets. These are super easy to download and print.
- Access to the Business Health Checklist and the goal setting worksheet that comes with it
- Access to the Business Year-End Review workbook.
- You’ll get my zoom link so you can attend my classes every week for the challenge and if you can’t attend live, no worries! You’ll get access to the replays for 60 days.
- Door prizes! Yes, I’m going to make this fun! And if you know me, I give away GOOD door prizes!
- But the most important reward will be your CONFIDENCE
Click HERE to learn more about the Challenge and sign up!
Welcome to episode 105 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast. I’m your host, Kathy Cruz.
To celebrate 100 episodes of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, we are replaying 6 of the most popular episodes in December and January. We chose the top 6 based on most downloaded, downloaded the most in relation to days published AND episodes that are the most popular with all of you.
Even if you listened to the episodes we chose for these replays, I highly encourage you to listen again! You might just catch something that you didn’t hear the first time around. We’re all so busy and at times distracted, right? I know this happens when I listen to podcast episodes myself. My point is you may learn something new or something ELSE if you give these episodes a second go.
Today’s replay is episode 2,
This is hands down the episode that generates the most response. This episode is what prompts most shopkeepers to subscribe to the free resources in the Shopkeeper’s Academy -because of the super simple calculator within the lesson. It’s also one of the lessons where Academy members respond to my questions at the end of the lesson.
Here are some of the comments made by shopkeepers who use the calculator and answer the question:
Do you feel you can hit your sales and salary goal?
"I needed to adjust the initial amounts I put in, but that was a good learning experience. In the long run, I might not be able to take home as much as I'd like to but, being able to own my own business outweighs that, currently."
"No Idea... just starting out."
"Not this year but since we are doubling gross sales in 2021 over 2020, I am hopeful we can double again for 2020, which would be more than the sales needed for my salary goal."
"No, I don't think so. Need to market harder."
"I already hit the sales, I'm still scared to pay myself!"
"I think it is possible."
"Yes, but also hard because it just shows how far I have to go for us to be paid."
"Not sure that it is realistic at this point but in the future."
"Questionable."
This podcast episode was published over 2 years ago! September 2019. At around the 15-minute mark, I heard myself say, “If you stay on this journey with me, I promise I’ll help you with your business” and I beamed with pride because I genuinely feel like I have fulfilled and continue to fulfill that promise.
And then there’s the other part of me that thought, “and I feel like I’m just getting started!” so it has me excited for 2022 and I hope it also has YOU excited for 2022.
Thank you for supporting the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast by listening, writing reviews, and cheering me on along the way! I would not have made it to 100 episodes without you!!
Click here to see the original show notes and to get access to my free Sales to Salary Calculator.
Welcome to episode 104 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast. I’m your host, Kathy Cruz.
To celebrate 100 episodes of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, we are replaying 6 of the most popular episodes in December and January. We chose the top 6 based on most downloaded, downloaded the most in relation to days published AND episodes that are the most popular with all of you.
Even if you listened to the episodes we chose for these replays, I highly encourage you to listen again! You might just catch something that you didn’t hear the first time around. We’re all so busy and at times distracted, right? I know this happens when I listen to podcast episodes myself. My point is you may learn something new or something ELSE if you give these episodes a second go.
Today’s replay is episode 3, An Instagram Blueprint for Shopkeepers this is an oldie but a goodie - from September 2019! It’s one of the most downloaded episodes of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast and even though TikTok is the social media platform that’s trending, Instagram is still important and absolutely relevant for retailers. I know some of you still need to learn how to use it too! Don’t let the fear or mental drama around this keep you from getting started.
When I relistened to this podcast episode, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I cringed at the thought of listening to one of my first episodes but ya know what? I didn’t hate it! LOL.
This episode is ideal for someone just starting off with Instagram BUT it’s also a great refresher even if you’ve had an Instagram account for years.
Also, if you’re a current Lab or Master Shopkeepers member, there’s actually a 3-part video lesson on Instagram in the Academy and you have access to it so if you’re still working on Instagram and building your following or maybe you now have time to focus on Instagram in the new year, I highly recommend it!
Thank you for supporting the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast by listening, writing reviews, and cheering me on along the way! I would not have made it to 100 episodes without you!!
Here’s the replay of Episode 3.
To celebrate 100 episodes of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, we are replaying 6 of the most popular episodes. Today, you’ll be hearing one of those episodes.
Even if you listened to the episodes we chose for these replays, I highly encourage you to listen again! You might just catch something that you didn’t hear the first time around. We’re all so busy and at times distracted, right? I know this happens when I listen to podcast episodes myself. My point is you may learn something new or something ELSE if you give these episodes a second go.
Today’s replay is episode 80 from July 2021, this one made the replay list based off on feedback! So many of you loved and appreciated this episode so I KNOW adding this to the replay list will only mean that it can potentially help so many more shopkeepers.
“My intention for this episode is to help you move slow-selling items and make strategic decisions around those items so you can maximize profit and keep your store fresh for customers.”
With surcharges, freight increases, inflation, and everything else going on with supply chain issues - we are all paying more for products. Period.
I want to break the bad habit of those retailers who feel their customers will only shop with them if they host a sale. Or the retailer who feels guilty for pricing their products where the price means profit. There’s SO much mindset work on this topic and I can’t cover it all in one episode but in episode 80 I think I truly help some of the roadblocks with both pricing and discounting.
As we look to 2022, please, please listen to this episode and PROTECT your margins. I promise doing so does not mean you’re being a bad retailer or that you still can’t serve your customers well. I promise!
Thank you for supporting the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast by listening, writing reviews, and cheering me on along the way! I would not have made it to 100 episodes without you!!
Here’s the replay of Episode 80.
To celebrate 100 episodes of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, we are replaying 6 of the most popular episodes in December and January.
Even if you listened to the episodes we chose for these replays, I highly encourage you to listen again! You might just catch something that you didn’t hear the first time around. We’re all so busy and at times distracted, right? I know this happens when I listen to podcast episodes myself. My point is you may learn something new or something ELSE if you give these episodes a second go.
Today’s replay is episode 85,
Out of the six episodes we’re replaying, this is the most recent - it was published in August of 2021. I was surprised at how much it was downloaded. Which validates why I really needed to do an episode on this topic. So many shopkeepers, me included!, need the nudge to get moving on video.
Whether you love video, hate video, or if you’re somewhere in between - you want to use video for your retail business but you’re either uncomfortable or just don't know where to get started, this is a good episode to listen to! I promise it’s the tough love you need. LOL
At the end of the episode, I made a statement indicating I would start using REELS by the end of the year and I have! PLUS I started my TikTok account too - follow me @savvyshopkeeper.
Thank you for supporting the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast by listening, writing reviews, and cheering me on along the way! I would not have made it to 100 episodes without you!!
Here’s the replay of episode 85.
To celebrate 100 episodes of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, starting today we are replaying 6 of the most popular episodes. We chose the top 6 based on most downloaded, downloaded the most in relation to days published AND episodes that are the most popular with all of you.
Even if you listened to the episodes we chose for these replays, I highly encourage you to listen again! You might just catch something that you didn’t hear the first time around. We’re all so busy and at times distracted, right? I know this happens when I listen to podcast episodes myself. My point is you may learn something new or something ELSE if you give these episodes a second go.
Today’s replay is episode 44, The Retail Profit Pie
Since I published this episode in October of 2020, I have put even more effort and weight into this concept. Because each time I’ve taught the concept of the Retail Profit Pie, whether it was with 1:1 clients on zoom, whether it was in a group setting, or even at this year’s retreat - I saw the “AHA” expressions on the faces of shopkeepers each and every time.
Before you listen to the replay I want you to understand that I’m using a pie, YES, FOOD, as a metaphor. The pie represents all of your revenue. When you pay for your cost of goods, that’s one piece of pie. When you pay operating expenses, that’s another piece of pie. Once you’re done serving everyone else (aka your bills), the big question is are YOU getting a piece of your own pie?
I’ll let the lesson speak for itself but I intentionally made this the first replay because understanding what’s going on in your business is important.
After publishing this episode and teaching the concept, I learned that many of you still needed a way to calculate what your own retail profit pie looks like, using numbers from YOUR P&Ls. So I created a tool with a NEW masterclass (the tool also has an area for shopkeepers who are experiencing net losses instead of net profits). I recently taught this masterclass in Master Shopkeepers. I do plan on releasing this new masterclass and tool as part of something in the future but until then, I want to make sure all of you learn about the basic concept first, by listening to episode 44….and for some of you, I hope you’ll listen again.
Thank you for supporting the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast by listening, writing reviews and cheering me on along the way! I would not have made it to 100 episodes without you!!
One more thing, when you listen to this replay, I don’t want it to discourage you. I want you to know that it is possible to have a profitable business that also pays YOU. I know, because this is what happens in my own business and I see it in my clients' businesses and in the businesses of some of our group members. IT IS POSSIBLE.
Visit the show notes from episode 44 HERE.
It’s a special day for the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast: we’ve published a milestone 100 episodes!
I’ve learned so much about the independent retail industry, micro shopkeepers, my own business, and myself throughout the past two years. Listen in to hear the most valuable lessons I’ve learned and get the inside scoop on what you can expect from Savvy Shopkeeper in 2022.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode100
Each year, the Savvy Support Fund helps shopkeepers access educational opportunities that are just out of reach. In 2022, I want to cover all the expenses for four shopkeepers attending the Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat—including travel, accommodations, and event tickets.
In this episode, I’m sharing how the Savvy Support Fund came to be, where the money inside comes from, and how you can donate or shop to support your fellow shopkeepers this Cyber Monday. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode99
Visit the Savvy Support Fund page or the Savvy Shopkeeper Online Shop.
As we head into the last few weeks of 2021, it’s normal to start thinking about the upcoming year. And there’s a lot of advice out there for bigger businesses! But what can smaller indie retailers expect in 2022?
After doing a little research and reflecting on what worked this year, I’m sharing 10 things that retailers should expect in 2022. Listen in to hear my predictions about omnichannel marketing, social selling, the supply chain, and more.
For show notes and links to all of the resources mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode98
As shopkeepers, it can be challenging to start hiring help—especially when we’re used to doing everything ourselves. Even when we begin to hire, it can still be hard to give up control of all the tasks we’re used to doing on our own.
Growing your store, though, happens when you’re able to do something most of us resist: delegate.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing 6 common reasons why shopkeepers resist delegating. Listen in to hear a personal example from my retail store and to learn why you should embrace delegating before you’re completely overwhelmed. For show notes and more, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode97
Social media, the internet, and technology make it challenging to define “success.” It’s all too easy to compare your business to the businesses with 25, 50, or 100k followers. Not to mention the businesses with massive revenue numbers or lines out their doors at events!
In the end, you find yourself measuring your business with someone else’s yardstick. You get roped into what you “should” be doing because it will supposedly make you successful, rather than determining what success looks like to you.In today’s episode, I’m breaking down why YOUR measure of success is what ACTUALLY matters.
Listen in to learn nine ways that you can define your retail success without comparing your business to anyone else’s. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode96
I often focus so much on educating retail business owners about the business side of things that I forget to remind you: it’s okay to dream. It’s okay to take risks. And it’s okay to nurture our souls.
But how do we make our dreams a reality? Inspired by a recent post in the Master Shopkeepers Facebook group, I’m sharing about being vulnerable, taking risks, and what it means to dream boldly for your store (and your life) in today’s episode. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode95.
Most of us know that Facebook and Instagram crashed on October 4th. No one could refresh, post, comment, share, run ads, nothing, nada…. for around 6 hours. The panic for some was real!
So aside from Facebook and Instagram, how can you diversify your marketing and communicate with your customers outside of social media? Listen in to learn about other options for connecting with your customers, including two that I know to be especially helpful for retailers.
For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode94
Every time you see another article about supply chain issues in the retail industry, do you cringe a little bit? It happened to me the other day. A two-minute segment came up about this topic on the nightly news, and I thought, “do I really want to watch this or listen to this again?”
As a Shopkeepers Lab member recently quipped, “the pandemic has been a straight-up pivot-a-thon.” Supply chain disruptions are just another piece of the pivoting puzzle!
Listen in to hear 9 of my best tips to help you lessen the pain of supply chain issues, even when it all feels outside of your control. For show notes, including links to anything I’ve mentioned in the episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode93
We recently had the first Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat, and it was such a special and magical weekend. It was even better than I imagined!
A large part of the credit for all the special touches at the retreat goes to members of our very own Savvy Shopkeeper community. I can wholeheartedly say that the 2021 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat was hands down one of the most incredible experiences of my own life because of these shopkeepers.
That’s why today’s episode is dedicated to them. Listen in to learn about the community members who donated their time, goods, and efforts to the retreat, as well as some of the incredible feedback we got from retreat attendees.
For show notes and links to everything mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode92
There's so much to share after the retreat!
Here's a recap of what I'm talking about in this bonus episode:
- Shopkeeper Stories recap
- My fitness journey update
- The 2021 Retreat
- 2 year podcast anniversary
- Master Shopkeepers
- Tundra's BIG announcement and October promotion. Click HERE to sign up for an account
- I explain why I say "Be Savvy and Boss Up" at the end of every episode
I can't thank you enough for listening and subscribing to this podcast! I look forward to sharing many great episodes with all of you in the year ahead.
In our last Shopkeeper Story of 2021, we’re chatting with Lisa of Bridenbaker Designs. Lisa never expected to be a full-time artist and shop owner—she originally got her degree in law enforcement! As part of her degree, she took a few art therapy electives that got her hooked on creating.
Mixing natural materials with paint, Lisa makes beautifully eclectic artwork that she sells to consignment stores, on Etsy, at markets, and wholesale to other shopkeepers.
Lisa shares how having ADHD has affected her business, why connecting with other store owners is key to growing her shop, and how she gives back to the Savvy Shopkeeper community.
For show notes and a list of resources from this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode91
This week’s Shopkeeper Story comes from someone near and dear to my heart: my best friend of 30 years, Katsie!
Katsie never considered herself a maker. But when her boss wanted custom-etched glasses for the company’s holiday party, she found herself learning a new skill. Now, Katsie regularly sells wholesale to retailers, at market events, and to individuals who want a beautiful custom gift.Katsie shared what makers should consider before taking on custom orders, why she continues to reinvest in new equipment for her business, and what she has learned as a member of the Shopkeepers Lab.
For show notes and a list of resources from this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode90
When Rachel started painting during her infant son’s naptime, she was going through a minor identity crisis. She’d just transitioned from a 15-year career in retail management to a stay-at-home mom.
Rachel’s stolen moments of painting quickly bloomed into a successful art business. Now, she sells her art to individuals through Etsy and to brick-and-mortar retailers through wholesale platforms.
In today’s Shopkeeper Story, Rachel shares the core value that led her to join the Savvy Shopkeeper community, how listening to other retailers’ concerns helps her be a better wholesaler, and her best marketing advice for artist- and maker-led businesses.
For show notes and a list of resources from this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode89
We’ve already had two rounds of Shopkeeper Stories on the Savvy Shopkeeper podcast, but this round is a little different. In the next four episodes, I’ll be featuring incredible makers, shop owners, and e-commerce retailers who are members of the Shopkeepers Lab.
First up is Brittany, owner of Kalopsia Clay. As she recovered from COVID with an entire month of unpaid leave from her full-time job, Brittany needed something to do with her hands. So she started making clay earrings, selling them, and hasn’t stopped since.
Brittany shared her vision for her growing business, her best advice for makers wanting to sell their art, and how being a member of the Shopkeepers Lab propelled her business forward in the last year.
For show notes and a list of resources from this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode88
There are so many business coaches and consultants out there, but it can be difficult to judge if someone is the right fit for you AND if you’ll get any ROI. Because of that, investing in coaching can be scary!
But there are retailers making the investment in themselves, and it’s paying off. Today I’m sharing wins from seven of my coaching and consulting clients. All of them have made considerable strides in their businesses and their mindsets.
Whether they’ve gone from solopreneur to aspiring CEO, uninformed retailer to growing e-commerce biz owner, or programmed thinker to aligned creative, I’m so proud of what we accomplished together. Listen in to learn more about coaching and if it’s a good fit for your business. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode87
Keeping our spirits up and our mindset in a good place can be challenging, especially with the current surcharges, supply chain issues like we’ve never seen, and employment problems. And many of us have already pivoted—it can be exhausting!
So today, I’m sharing tons of tips on ways to keep our spirits up as retailers. Some of the tips are mindset work, while others are actionable steps you can take in your business today. For show notes and a list of resources from this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode86
You might have heard that Instagram is “no longer just a square photo-sharing app,” as recently announced by Instagram’s founder.
When a member shared this announcement in the Master Shopkeepers group, it sparked lots of discussion—particularly about how scary it can be to show up on video for your store.
Video is clearly here to stay, though. Listen to today’s episode to learn my top eight tips on using video to promote your store.
From brainstorming ideas to repurposing your content, there are plenty of non-scary ways to dip your toes into video creation! For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode85
As small, independent shop owners, it can be incredibly difficult to step away from our businesses.
Shopkeepers, though, are some of the hardest workers I know. We deserve time to recharge, and we deserve to disconnect from our work during our hard-earned time off!
In today’s episode, I’m sharing five ways to set yourself up for a stress-free, independent, and well-deserved vacation. For show notes and access to related resources, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode84
For the first time ever, Savvy Shopkeepers from around the United States will gather in-person to learn, connect, and share!
The 2021 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat is coming up very soon, and I want to make sure you have all the details. In today’s episode, I’m sharing what you can expect to learn at the retreat, as well as special details about group activities, the venue, swag bags, and a brand new Savvy Shopkeeper resource for attendees.
Tickets are available through Monday, August 2, 2021, at 4 PM EST. If you want to attend, be sure to register ASAP at http://www.savvyshopkeeper.com/retreat!
If we want our retail businesses to scale and grow, we can’t do it alone. That means that we have to hire—and hiring well requires having a system in place.
Hiring can be overwhelming for shopkeepers, mainly because there are so many steps to doing it right. But if you’re ready to go from solopreneur to scaling retailer, then you have to boss up!
Today I’m sharing a ten-step roadmap to hiring successful employees for your independent retail business. I’m also sharing sage advice from our guest expert on human resources in Master Shopkeepers and all the premade hiring resources you can find in the Shopkeepers Lab to help you. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode82
I talk about profit a lot—after all, the Savvy Shopkeeper slogan is work less, profit more! But I don’t talk about profit just for vanity or for making more and more money. It’s so much more than that.
Profit lets us compensate ourselves for our hard work, retire our spouses, and support our families. Profit makes us stronger business owners. Most of all, profit helps us build businesses that have value.
Whether you’re just starting your shop or you’ve run it successfully for years, you can create value in your business. Today I’m sharing six pieces that will help you build value and explaining why this is so important for the financial health of your store.
I’ve also got a special request for you—tune in to find out how you can be featured on an upcoming episode of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode81
Stale inventory can bore your regular customers and hurt your bottom line. But deciding what to do with dead inventory can be tricky! Today, I’m sharing my three-stage system for dealing with tired items so that my store feels fresh—without just slapping a discount sticker on. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode80
We all have programmed thoughts that guide our day-to-day lives. No matter what age we are, these unintentional beliefs are always there, influencing our choices. Usually, our brains are trying to protect us from harm with these beliefs. But sometimes these thoughts can stand in our own way and keep us from growing.
The good news, though, is that we can choose what thoughts we believe. Today I’m sharing ten of the most common thoughts that hold us back from growing as shopkeepers, the evidence you need to stop believing them, and advice on how to work through the beliefs that aren’t serving you.
For show notes and more, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode79
Each month, members in the Shopkeepers Lab and Master Shopkeepers get a new live lesson on a relevant topic taught by me or a guest expert. Today I’m giving you a sneak peek of what these lessons are like by sharing a recent lesson about the omnichannel retail experience.
Listen in to this special episode for a comprehensive overview of omnichannel retail, why micro retailers should embrace them, and ten ways you can add these marketing strategies to your business. For detailed show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode78
After countless conversations in the Shopkeeper’s Lab and Master Shopkeepers, I’m ready to say it: you need a bookkeeper in your independent retail business.
Today, I’m sharing the five reasons why you need a bookkeeper, Savvy Shopkeeper resources that can help you if YOU want to be the bookkeeper for your business, and why having your financial records in order is so empowering for shopkeepers. For detailed show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode77
In this bonus episode, I'm answering some of the common questions I receive about Master Shopkeepers, our Mastermind group for Brick and Mortar retail store owners.
For those considering this fantastic mastermind, I want to help answer your questions and clarify what and who the group is for.
This group only opens to new members by application three times per year.
This application closes on June 17, 2021 at 2pm EST.
Learn more about Master Shopkeepers or to apply, visit here: https://www.shopkeepersacademy.com/
Wholesale platforms like Faire and Tundra are more popular than ever before with store owners. But many wholesale makers prefer to sell independently to protect their profit margins.
There’s one big roadblock for independent makers, though, and they might not even realize it: they need to match the convenience of these platforms in their own systems and processes.
Today I’m sharing seven ways to add more convenience, ease, and efficiency to the wholesale process so makers can work less, profit more. For detailed show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode76
There are shops of all sizes in the Savvy Shopkeeper community, but one of the largest clocks in at 12,000 square feet!
Christy started out in a smaller retail space of 4,000 square feet before expanding to her current location, plus storage container and warehouse space for extra inventory.
In today’s interview, Christy shares why she loves owning a furniture business, how she delegates critical tasks like marketing and merchandising, and why she’s been a part of Master Shopkeepers for two full years.
Click HERE to see the full show notes for Episode 75.
Opening one brick-and-mortar store can be challenging enough, but today’s Shopkeeper Story comes from a member of Master Shopkeepers that owns four and she's opening more in the future!
Jennifer always knew that she wanted to run her own business. When she opened her first store, Paper Luxe, she was still working full time as an online business manager. Her store really took off, though, when she fully committed to her brick-and-mortar business.
In this episode, Jennifer shared how she balances her businesses and her family, the mindset work that has helped her grow, and why going all-in on technology for her stores set her up for success when the pandemic hit.
Click HERE to see the full show notes for this episode.
Many of the shopkeepers we’ve interviewed have been in Master Shopkeepers for a year or more. Bren, though, is a newer Master Shopkeepers member and a new shop owner. She opened Plantstay in Gainesville, Florida just seven months ago!
After working in marketing for companies big and small, Bren knew she wanted to venture out on her own. She established a customer base through pop-up events before opening her 1000 square foot space in September 2020.
Bren shared how the pandemic helped her business boom, why she keeps her online and in-store inventory separate, and how the Master Shopkeepers group helps her brainstorm.
Click HERE to see the full show notes.
In this bonus podcast episode, I'm sharing 6 updates and announcements!
Here are links to everything I mention in this episode:
- Shopkeeper Stories Series: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/podcast
- Handshake Giveaway: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/who-is-shopify-handshake-for-plus-a-giveaway/
- Welp article: https://welpmagazine.com/20-best-retail-podcasts-of-2021/
- P Graham Dunn Dealer Conference: https://www.pgrahamdunn.com/pages/events
- Bench Accounting Service (1st month free and 30% off 3 months): https://bench.grsm.io/Savvy-Shopkeeper
- 2021 Savvy Shopkeeper Retreat: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/retreat
After sharing four shopkeeper stories last year, I’m excited to highlight four more incredible shopkeepers from the Savvy Shopkeeper community.
First up is Miriam, owner of Coco Jolie in Englewood, New Jersey. Miriam always loved creating in the kitchen, but found herself in two other careers before going back to culinary school.
She shared the winding journey that led her to open Coco Jolie, her best advice for starting out at farmer’s markets, and how the Master Shopkeepers community rallied around her when things got tough.
Click here to see the full episode show notes and links to connect with Miriam and Coco Jolie.
Running a retail store is all about connecting with your customers. One of the best ways to do that is through a retail brand photoshoot! With masks on our faces in-store, the connection we make through digital channels is more important than ever.
Today, I’m sharing a little about my recent brand photoshoot and my top ten tips for having a successful one. Listen in to learn how to find the perfect photographer for you, how to prepare for your shoot, and the pep talk you should give yourself the day of.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode71
Many of us open or start our businesses without a business plan, a formal education, or any guidance or mentorship regarding running a retail business.
And this isn’t a judgment of anyone—this was ME! I started my business without any plan, mentorship, or education, too.
When we open, we tend to think about the basics. But there comes a time where we have to step up, be the CEO, and do the hard work of leading our business rather than just working in it. In today’s episode, I’m sharing the six critical ways you can up-level to CEO, so you can work on your business instead of in it. Listen in to learn what steps to take and how to go from “I don’t know 😬” to confident retail CEO 💪. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode70
The Savvy Shopkeeper community recently participated in our annual survey. I asked shopkeepers about their business models, their revenue numbers, the support they’re looking for, and their feedback on all things Savvy Shopkeeper. I learned so much from the survey results and gained so much insight into our community. Today, I’m sharing the survey results with you so you can learn from them, too. For detailed show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode69
Growth can be a scary concept for a retail business owner, but it can also be an exciting one! Today I’m sharing three reasons why growth is so critical to your success as an independent retail business owner, and why ignoring these areas of growth can be harmful to your business. Listen in to learn why growth matters and a new way to grow your business alongside other savvy shopkeepers. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode68
Click here to apply for the Work Less, Profit More & Grow small group coaching program.
Follow Kathy on Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
As shopkeepers, it’s easy to get caught up in running our business. We chug along, push forward, and hustle to make it work. But that often comes at a high cost—our emotional health.
I’ve learned this the hard way over the past year. Today, I’m sharing a bit about my personal journey to improve my emotional health, beliefs that were holding me back, and the most important thing I’ve done to change them for the better. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode67
Follow me on Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
As I shared in Episode 65, we hear all sorts of myths as independent retailers. From “the customer’s always right” to “you’ll probably show a loss for your first three years in business,” these myths are repeated so frequently that we just believe them to be true!
Today, I’m sharing six more myths to stop believing in and the evidence I have to prove them wrong. And I’m sharing something really exciting—a new way for independent retailers to work with Savvy Shopkeeper so you can work less, profit more, and grow your business. Stay tuned to the end of this episode to learn more. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode66
Follow me on Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Learn about my new coaching program in the Shopkeeper's Academy.
We hear all sorts of stories about how to run an independent retail business. And it’s easy to hear a story, believe it to be true, and then judge our own business against it. But there is no one right way to run a business! You have to find what works for you.
That’s why I’m debunking six of the common stories, myths, and one-liners that business coaches and gurus toss around in today’s episode. Listen in to hear the six myths, along with examples of how they’re NOT true from me and members of the Savvy Shopkeeper community.
I'll share 6 more myths in the next episode, Part 2!
Plus, I’m sharing some of the feedback I received from the Savvy Shopkeeper survey—thank you so much to everyone who filled it out.
For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode65
Follow me on Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Every shopkeeper I know has those frantic, overwhelming days where nothing important seems to get done. So how can we make our days more effective when there’s so much to do?
It all comes down to organizing the thousands of thoughts pinging around in our brains. If we don’t declutter our minds, those thoughts will pull us in all sorts of different directions, and we won’t get any of the essential tasks done!In today’s episode, I’m sharing my simple hack for decluttering my mind and walking you through the easy, two-step process so you can use it, too. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode64
Click HERE to complete the 2021 Savvy Shopkeeper Survey
Follow me on Instagram! @savvyshopkeeper
When the pandemic forced retail shops to close, shopkeepers found themselves scrambling to integrate e-commerce into their business. Online shopping was just a convenience before, but now, it’s a necessity!
Today I’m sharing five tips for retail e-commerce success, including the metrics you need to track for your online storefront and how to calculate them.
Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode, as I’m sharing the details about an exciting giveaway that only takes five minutes to enter! For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode63
To complete the survey and enter the giveaway, please visit here: https://forms.gle/psyhdVjDbVy5oS4b8
If you’re in the US, tax season is upon us. Many shopkeepers are trying to clean up or catch up on their bookkeeping for 2020. Today, I’m sharing 10 places you can cut costs for your store that you might not have thought of—and giving you some encouragement on changing your money mindset for 2021.
Click HERE to sign up to get my sheet with 20 tips for cutting expenses!
Follow me on Instagram: Savvy Shopkeeper
For full show notes and links to everything I’ve mentioned in this episode, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode62
We all experience seasons in life and business. I'm currently experiencing one myself so it's the perfect time to talk about how to manage this, in terms of time and your brain.
In this episode I'm sharing about my own current "season" in business and why I've had to let some things go or push other things down on my priority list.
Thank you to Dani of Cotton Shed Vintage Market and High Cotton Decor for the fantastic 5 star podcast review! Click here to visit her website and learn more about her and her husband, Tim.
Episode 13 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, "What Made 2019 Successful for Independent Retailers", is one of the most downloaded episodes of this podcast. I understand why. It helps to know WHAT IS contributes to the success of other independent retailers.
No one expected or could have predicted 2020, right? What a year.
Independent Retailers did some incredible things to get through 2020.
If you go back and listen to episode 13, you’ll hear things that not many retailers, if any, could have used to succeed in 2020 - like in-person events. Do you miss these too? (sigh)
Just like for episode 13, I asked group members in our communities what helped them succeed but this time I asked them what helped them succeed during a pandemic YEAR and I'm sharing what I learned.
Show notes on the Savvy Shopkeeper website are coming soon.
Follow Kathy on Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
I struggled to record this episode. To answer the common questions I receive about what else Savvy Shopkeeper offers beyond this podcast.
Until I received a personal message on Facebook.
Listen to the lesson a fellow Shopkeeper in the Lab taught me AND learn the answer to the question about what Savvy Shopkeeper offers, beyond the podcast.
To visit either website mentioned in this bonus podcast episode, click on the links below:
Savvy Shopkeeper
Shopkeeper's Academy
The Retail CEO Challenge is coming to an end, and we’re wrapping up the challenge by learning how to complete the Retail Business Year-End Report! This 11-page document will help challenge participants to summarize their 2020 business metrics. Listen in to learn what data you should be tracking in your business and the benchmarks you need to watch out for—whether you’re participating in the challenge or not, I share some gold nuggets in this episode so be sure to listen. For show notes and more, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode59
Shopkeepers sometimes get so busy with their day to day work that they forget to check in on the health of their business. Today I’m sharing how to set a CEO date with yourself, what you should check in on as you evaluate your business health, and what to do once you can see the full picture. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode58
Tracking is one of the key pillars of a successful business. Without tracking, a business owner simply cannot know what works and what does not. My mission with this challenge is to empower you to become the CEO of your business, and that’s why I’m sharing so much about tracking in the Retail CEO Challenge! Listen in to learn how tracking helps you build a better business and what tracking worksheets I implement in my own shop. For show notes and more, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode57
Every retail business needs to have systems and processes in place to run successfully and smoothly. But so many shopkeepers neglect to create these crucial pieces of their business until they are stressed, overwhelmed, and lost. Today, I’m sharing what we’re tackling in part 1 of the Retail CEO Challenge: creating systems and processes for your business and organizing them in a central CEO binder. For show notes and more, head to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode56
The Savvy Shopkeeper mission is to empower micro independent retailers to work less, profit more. That’s why, over the next several weeks, I’m running a new challenge for the Savvy Shopkeeper community: The Retail CEO Challenge! In today’s episode, I’m sharing why you should join the challenge, what you’ll learn, and how this challenge will set you up for a successful year as an empowered CEO of your retail business. For show notes, information on how to sign up for the challenge and more, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode55
Shopkeepers, and probably many small business owners, are feeling lonely. Trying to run a small business during a pandemic is no joke! I want all shopkeepers to know that they are not alone in their feelings about this difficult year. Recently, I asked members of Master Shopkeepers to reflect on the year. Today I’m sharing the things they missed, longed for, and wished would go away in 2020. For show notes, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode54
As a Shopify Partner, I’ve designed websites for other small business owners on the Shopify platform. It’s an incredible platform with tons of features that allow anyone to set up an online store. But Shopify isn’t the perfect fit for everyone! Today, I’m breaking down which types of retailers should consider Shopify and what to consider if you choose to make the switch. For show notes and to try Shopify for without a credit card, head to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode53
After the curveball that 2020 threw us, it’s safe to say that no one can truly predict what’s coming. After doing a little research and reflecting on what worked this year, though, I’ve got 10 ideas of what we might see in 2021. Listen in to hear my best guesses for what we’ll see in merchandising, shipping, eCommerce, product trends, and more. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode52
My goal for all Savvy Shopkeepers is to “work less, profit more.” But it can be tough to gauge how much we should be paying ourselves, especially when salary isn’t openly discussed among retailers. I’ve collected data from retailers for several months now about salary goals via a free, anonymous salary calculator. Today I’m breaking down the calculator results and sharing why you should be setting a salary goal for your micro-retail business. For show notes, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode51
On the 50th episode of the Savvy Shopkeeper podcast, I interviewed the retail equivalent of a household name: Becky Tyre. Known for her incredible skill as a visual merchandising consultant, she’s also the host of the Retail Details podcast. She shared what she’s seen retailers do well during the pandemic, two simple changes to make our stores more accessible, and her best tips for attending large market events. Be sure to listen in and soak up all of her wisdom! For show notes and links to Becky’s blog, Instagram, and podcast, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode50
Small Business Saturday is on November 28, 2020 and in this bonus episode I'm sharing some helpful information about how retailers can get involved, how you can get free personalized graphics from American Express, and some creative ways to promote your business on this #shopsmall day. Click here to read a blog post with helpful links too!
P.S. In this bonus episode I accidentally mention a date in December, I meant to say November.
If you run a good portion of your business off your phone as I do, then you know firsthand that notifications can consume your entire day. As we head into the holiday season, it’s more important than ever to work less so you can profit more AND spend quality time with your family. You can’t do that if your phone is sucking up all your time! In today’s episode, I’m sharing six ways for you to get unaddicted to your phone so you can be an effective, efficient shopkeeper during the holiday season. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode49
When I started my shopkeeper journey seven years ago, where to buy wholesale was one of my first and most important questions. And although I’m an avid googler, I don’t recall finding a clear answer to this question back then. Since then, many things have changed, such as the addition of online wholesale platforms. In today’s episode, I’m sharing where to buy wholesale for all kinds of retail businesses. For show notes with links to all of the markets, vendors, and websites I’m sharing, head to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode48
With the holiday season upon us, it’s important to prepare our stores for holiday shoppers. COVID has definitely changed how our stores function. But that doesn’t mean your store can’t be an inviting, beautiful, and healthy space for your customers. Listen in to learn exactly what you need to do to prep your store for this busy season. For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode47
Shopkeepers open their stores because they have a vision for their business. Sometimes, though, that vision can be taken over by the opinions of employees, landlords, vendors, and even business partners. In today’s episode, I’m sharing real-life examples from shopkeepers who realized they were running their business for other people, rather than themselves. And I’m sharing how each shopkeeper overcame this and changed their business for the better. For show notes and more, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode46
Instagram is one of the best social media platforms to promote your retail business, but it can be tough to keep up with! It’s a continually evolving platform with new features added every day. Reels are the latest content form available on Instagram, and they are SO MUCH FUN. I’m sharing what Reels are, how to use them, and why you should absolutely hop on this trend for your retail or brick and mortar store. For show notes and more, head to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode45
Understanding your numbers is a crucial part of succeeding as a retail business owner, but so many shop owners I coach have never looked at their P&L statement! In today’s episode, I’m sharing why it’s so important to look at your P&L and make adjustments based on your numbers so that you can have a piece of your retail profit pie. For show notes and to see visual examples of what I discuss in this episode, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode44
Let’s be real—many shopkeepers aren’t delegating enough. As store owners, I want you to be focused on tasks that make $50 an hour rather than $10 or $20 an hour. That’s where a virtual assistant can come in handy! In today’s episode, I’m sharing what a VA can do for your business, how much you can expect to pay them, and the types of tasks they can do for you. For show notes and more, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode43
As shopkeepers, we often hear diminishing comments about our “small” business or our “hobby.” No matter how mad those little digs might make us, the worst part isn’t the comment—it’s that we take them on and start believing them! I’m sharing six ways to stop minimizing yourself with comments like “I know this is dumb” or “I’m sorry to ask, but…” and start being confident in your role as a store owner. For show notes, head to savvyshopkeeper.com/episode42
In part three of our series about common shopkeeper fears, I’m sharing all of the ways that the fear of buying might be affecting you. It’s time to take action and challenge yourself to have an amazing fourth quarter! I’m sharing some practical tips on buying during this uncertain season, as well as ways to deal with your fear so you can go feel prepared to tackle Q4. For show notes and more, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode41
In part two of our series about significant shopkeeper fears, I’m sharing all of the ways that the fear of selling can pop into your head. Let’s tackle this fear head-on and get you happily selling before one of the biggest quarters of the year! For show notes and more, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode40
As we head into quarter four of 2020, I’ve heard lots of shopkeepers expressing deep fears about the future. I get it—not knowing what will happen is scary! That’s why I’m chatting with you about the first of three significant fears I’ve heard these past few weeks: the fear of selling old inventory. Listen in to find out where this fear comes from, and my best tips on facing those storage boxes head-on. For show notes and more, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode39
In this closing episode of Season 3 of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast, I share what I experienced over the past 5 months as a shopkeeper and small business owner.
As I wrap up this season, I want to invite you to join me in this community of shopkeepers who are committed to their own dreams and playing big.
Both the Savvy Shopkeeper Learning Lab and Master Shopkeepers are currently open for new members and I would love to welcome you into these communities.
On Monday, August 17, 2020 at 9pm EST the introductory price of the Lab will go up and applications for new Master Shopkeepers members will close until 2021.
Click HERE to visit the Shopkeeper's Academy for more information or to subscribe/apply.
In the final episode of the Shopkeeper Stories mini-series, I spoke with the Master Shopkeepers member who asked me to do the series in the first place: Kathy, owner of Pineapple on Main in Dublin, Pennsylvania.
Over the past few years, Kathy’s brand has evolved from an event design company to a home, gifts, and baby goods store. She shared about all the ups and downs of buying her first round of inventory, expanding to two locations then back to one, and dissolving a business partnership.
Lastly, Kathy talks about what she’s learned from Master Shopkeepers, how this community has supported her, and gives her best tip for having a successful retail business.
Click HERE to see the full show notes for episode 38.
This episode of the Shopkeeper Stories series features April, owner of Pink + Frillos in Greenville, Michigan.
April started her business from her basement, then moved to a 1900 sq. ft. storefront in a less than ideal location. Her customers drive anywhere from 40 minutes to 2 hours to shop at her store!
Now, she and her husband are opening their next venture: a working apple orchard with a coffee shop, tavern, and shop space.
April shared her journey as a shopkeeper, her plans for her expanding businesses, and how Master Shopkeepers has helped her succeed over the past year.
Click HERE to see the full show notes for episode 37.
In this episode of the Shopkeeper Stories series, I chatted with Karen, shopkeeper at Alluv Place in Brentwood, California.
Her unique journey from maker to shop owner includes opening Alluv Place just weeks before California went into quarantine due to COVID-19.
Karen shared her experience working with a business partner, her core business values, and what she has learned during her time as a member of Master Shopkeepers.
Click here to see the full show notes for Episode 36.
In this episode of the Shopkeeper Stories series, I had the pleasure of speaking with Taylor, owner of The Turquoise Top Hat in Stevensville, Michigan.
Before the Bob-Ross-style “happy accident” that led her to open The Turquoise Top Hat, Taylor was a school teacher. She still uses her teaching skills today at her wooden sign painting workshops.
We also chatted about what Taylor has done to pivot her business during COVID-19, as well as her experience as a member of Master Shopkeepers.
Click HERE for more information about Taylor and The Turquoise Top Hat, Master Shopkeepers and the full show notes for this episode.
Every shopkeeper has a shopkeeper personality type. After working with many shopkeepers in my paid mastermind, Master Shopkeepers, I’ve identified several personalities that come up again and again! As shop owners, we all have those bad habits or mindset blocks that creep into our work.
Overwhelmed Opal Opal does a poor job of managing her time, and she is ALWAYS overwhelmed. She feels like there just isn’t enough time in the day! The truth is, Opal doesn’t need more time—she needs better time and life management.
When I coach an Overwhelmed Opal, we get busy prioritizing and managing her to-do list, or at least what she THINKS is her to-do list. Often, she needs to delegate, outsource, or let go of unimportant tasks.
Procrastinator Patty There are two versions of Procrastinator Patty. Either she is a perfectionist or an avoider.
Perfectionist Procrastinator Patty needs to understand that progress is better than perfect. Most of the time, B- work is what keeps life moving along, not A++.
The Procrastinator Patty who avoids her work gets more satisfaction out of avoidance.
Either way, Patty just NEEDS TO DO THE WORK.
Can’t Say No Cathy Cathy either has FOMO, or she feels guilty for saying no. But if Cathy wants to avoid being Overwhelmed Opal, Cathy better start saying NO.
Whether Cathy’s offering way too many services to her customers because she’s trying to please everyone or offering “all the things” because she’s afraid she’ll miss out...Cathy has to find her ONE AND BEST THING and stick to it.
I Do It All Ira I admit it—I was once an Ira. Ira is most likely afraid to hire. Otherwise, her personality type is “Doesn’t Delegate David,” and we’ll be talking about sweet David soon. But Ira needs to understand that if she wants to manage her time better AND grow her business, she has to ditch the “I do it all” mentality.
Lack of Planning Linda If you’re an Overwhelmed Opal, this can lead to being Lack of Planning Linda.
Either way, a business owner who doesn’t plan is a business owner without a compass. Although you may do well initially, it’s just beginner’s luck. This could come to a halt if you don’t start learning the value of planning.
Financially Fearful Francis Good old Franny tells himself he knows what he’s doing because he’s afraid of being embarrassed. Sometimes, Franny avoids his numbers because it’s easier to run and hide.
Whether or not you’re a Financially Fearful Francis, all shopkeepers need to educate themselves. Even if you have an accountant or bookkeeper, you still need to understand how to analyze your financial information.
There are lots of episodes of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast where I chat about shop finances—be sure to check out episodes 2, 4, 6, 25, 26, and 31 if you’re a Financially Fearful Francis!
Watch Your Back Winnie Winnie has been burned, perhaps by a business partner or neighboring shop owner. This means that Winnie is always defensive, always on the lookout, and always super cautious.
Being constantly on edge has to be exhausting! Winnie needs to remind herself that not all people are evil, and her energy is better spent doing other things.
Competitive Cara Cara loves to stalk her competitors. It’s almost to the point that she can’t define her style or brand because she’s too busy looking at everyone else’s.
Cara doesn’t realize that being inspired by other retailers can be a beautiful thing. But there’s a fine line between “getting inspired” and flat out copying.
Cara might also find it difficult to see how successful she has become or could be. She’s too busy wondering why everyone else is more successful than her.
Success is relative. Cara should spend more time on herself, her business, and her customers. Finding out what brings HER customers joy is a better use of her energy than trying to compete with others.
Victim Victoria Victoria feels like no matter what she does or who she hires or what software she uses, nothing seems to work in her favor, and life just sucks!
I want Victoria to try flipping her perspective and focusing on what that matters to her. Victorias who want to improve should find things in their businesses that DO bring them joy. They should celebrate any win, no matter how small.
A gratitude journal is an excellent practice for the “Victoria” who wants to change.
Helplessly Hopeful Harriet Helplessly Hopeful Harriet is never realistic about her numbers or her business. She doesn’t want to face the truth of her business struggling.
Accepting the truth and working to change it is the only step that can turn around a Helplessly Hopeful Harriet.
Shiny Object Sharon I recently had to tell a client NO, just plain old NO because she is continually chasing after the shiny objects.
The next cool software, service, or product will always keep Shiny Object Sharon from focusing on her zone of genius. When you stray from that, you risk not finding real success.
Boundaryless Bonnie Bonnie will reply to customers on Facebook at midnight, will answer emails on her days off, she’ll even work a day off because her business or a customer “needed” her.
Bonnie is most likely an Opal, too. If you’re a Bonnie, please, give yourself some structured time off and don’t give in!
Bonnie is the person I love to create a color-blocked calendar for when I’m coaching her.
Doesn’t Delegate David Unlike “I Do It All Ira,” David HAS a team and maybe even has some fantastic team members, but he’s afraid they can’t do the tasks as well as he does.
David just needs to let go of control. David doesn’t realize that if he set up some proper SOPs (standard operating procedures) along with some proper training, he could free up his time to work on the parts of the biz that generate $100+/hour results! How amazing would that be?
Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda, Wanda! Oh, Wanda, stop beating yourself up! No one should live in the past. Wanda’s always thinking thoughts like, “I should have bought that building, I should not have hired so and so, why did I partner with her, why didn’t I listen to my gut?”
Yes, for sure this happens on occasion to ALL OF US. But if you’re wallowing in this type of mentality, you may not have the ability to look forward to the future.
It’s like the saying, “It’s better to make errors of commission than errors of omission.” Even if things don’t work as planned, at least we don’t spend our lives wondering what could have been. Note the mistake, learn from it, and move forward.
All of the Above Allison I hope this isn’t you, but someone in Master Shopkeepers joked about this, and it made me laugh. In reality, we might all see a bit of ourselves in many or all of these personality types.
All joking aside, I think a level of self-deprecation is okay and maybe even healthy. But it does have a limit. The most important lesson of all of these personality types is this: Do the work to change your bad habits. You will be a better shopkeeper for it.
These personality types are a reflection of these issues. It’s essential to think positively in business, of course, but it’s also important to recognize where we could be doing better. Listen now to see if you can identify your shopkeeper personality type!
Click HERE to see the full show notes for Episode 34.
Running a brick and mortar store requires a surprising amount of software! There are lots of different options out there for any pain point you might have in the running of your shop. As a shopkeeper myself, I know what it’s like to search and search for the right solution. Today I’m sharing my top software picks for everything from email marketing to inventory to graphic design. For links to these programs and more information, head to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode33.
There comes a time for most shopkeepers when juggling every task from inventory to staffing to marketing becomes too much. Social media management is one of the first tasks that shopkeepers can delegate. Today I’m sharing the four types of people you can delegate this crucial task to. There’s a way to delegate this at every budget! For show notes, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode32
Many shopkeepers do not have a business background when they open their store. Even those who do struggle with understanding the financials of their business. Today I’m sharing my own journey in learning the ins and outs of my store’s finances. I’m also sharing a unique opportunity for shopkeepers to learn how to take control of their shop’s finances. To read show notes for this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode31
As a business owner, it’s easy to get pulled in a million different directions. At some point, I’m sure you have felt the intense overwhelm of trying to do everything for everyone. Today I’m sharing how and why I’m refocusing my efforts for Savvy Shopkeeper so that I can best serve brick and mortar shopkeepers. The new mission of Savvy Shopkeeper is to teach you how to work less and profit more. Listen in as I share openly about resetting my business and my core mission. To read the show notes for this episode, go to www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode30
Resetting Your Business Is an Opportunity
More than ever, shopkeepers are taking stock of their businesses and considering the way forward. That means it is the perfect time to do a business reset. Resetting your business means reflecting on what is and isn't working, analyzing your numbers, and planning for the future based on the values that matter to you. Here's exactly how to do it.
Click HERE to see all of the show notes for this episode.
Posting About Sensitive Topics on Your Business Social Media Accounts
2020 has not been easy for anyone. As difficult as it's been as a business owner, it's been equally challenging as a person, as a human being, but I know firsthand that from discomfort comes growth. Both the political climate and social issues are front and center more than I've ever seen before.
Should You Post? The one question I’ve been hearing from shopkeepers is, “Should I post about socio political issues on my business social media accounts?”
As a business consultant and retail educator, I can’t tell any business owner how to feel. I can, however, give you some guidance. Here are some things to keep in mind as you move forward with social media during these times.
Click HERE to see the full show notes for this episode.
Full show notes coming soon!
Click HERE to grab the Reopen Safely checklist.
For more information visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website or the Shopkeeper's Academy.
More detailed show notes coming soon.
Elisa, owner of Moonstruck CLE
Episode 1 - Who to Expect from the Savvy Shopkeeper Podcast
Episode 2 - How Much Do I Need to Make in Order to Pay Myself
Want more information about the Shopkeeper's Academy? Click here to check it out.
This episode is part 1 of 2 episodes where I talk about all of the business lessons learned during the first few months of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #25:
- Karen Berg of Alluv Place (All Love Place)
- Master Shopkeepers group page
- Business bank account blog post
- Savvy Shopkeeper Podcast on paying yourself
- CARES Act for business relief
- Savvy Shopkeeper podcast
- Insta page
Until the next episode, be savvy, boss up & stay healthy!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Master Shopkeepers is open to new members until Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Click here for more information or to apply to join!
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders. Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
The Boss Up Minisode Series will consist of daily podcast episodes that will be short and brief. The intention of this series is to inspire and motivate you to pivot and run your business creatively and efficiently while our stores are mandated to be closed and most of us are under Stay at Home orders.
Please visit the Savvy Shopkeeper website for more information or the Shopkeeper's Academy where you can access FREE resources for retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a shopkeeping friend!
Have an experience of your own to share? Please DM me on Instagram at @savvyshopkeeper
There are programs and resources for Small Business Owners under the CARES Act. In this bonus episode, Sarah Nemecek of WE Profit Foundry, helps to explain the differences between the programs and how to decide which ones might be a good fit for you and your retail business.
Disclaimer: This is not tax or legal advice and you should consult your accountant or attorney, or seek assistance from the SBA or your bank for your specific situation.
- Savvy Shopkeeper website
- Coronavirus Resources for Retailers
- Master Shopkeepers Mastermind Group
- Click here to apply for the EIDL loan program.
- Contact your local banker or SBA-approved bank to apply for the PPP Loan OR click here for the PDF application or here for the PPP Information sheet
- Click here to learn more about Sarah Nemecek and WE Profit Foundry.
- LetterJess website
In this episode, I share emotions and issues we are likely all experiencing and how to turn some of that around.
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #24:
- Episode 22 How retailers can handle this challenging time
- Episode 23 Get creative with selling online
- Shopkeeper Academy's “Break-Even” analysis spreadsheet in Coronavirus resources
- CARE ACT for business relief
Until the next episode, be savvy, boss up & stay healthy!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode, I'll review ways to adapt to the current retail environment in selling from a distance. I'll talk about -
- Online avenues
- What you can offer customers
- Other ways to stay in touch
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #23:
- WE Profit Foundry
- Natterdoodle
- Free resources in the Shopkeeper's Academy for Retailers during the Coronavirus Pandemic
- Episode 21 on building an email list
- Open Phone App
- Listing of Software programs - some offering special discounts
Until the next episode, be savvy, boss up & stay healthy!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
DISCLAIMER: The Coronavirus pandemic situation is constantly changing. The audio from this Facebook Live was recorded on March 10, 2020, and many things have changed since then. Many small businesses have been ordered to close or owners have voluntarily closed their businesses in order to protect their communities. The audio isn't the quality we normally provide on the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast but the content is worth sharing with listeners because it does provide helpful information for retailers.
In this episode, I'll focus on what we can do as retail business owners, either to help our businesses or help EACH OTHER. I'll talk about -
- Importance of being aware
- Planning
- Using downtime wisely
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #22:
- Katie of Voiced by Katie
- Master Shopkeepers
- Diversifying Income Streams blog post
- Going live on social media
- Surviving slow season blog post
- Zoom (This is my referral link)
- Free resources in the Shopkeeper's Academy for Retailers during the Coronavirus Pandemic
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode I'll cover growing and managing email newsletters.
- Why use email marketing?
- So many platform choices, where do I start?
- Is it worth it?
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #21:
- Emily of Modesty N Mind
- Christine of Josephine and Mim
- Flodesk - super simple email platform
- Mailchimp
- Constant Contact
- Snap Retail
- Active Campaign
- Mailerlite
- Marsello
- Klaviyo
- How to grow your email list blog post
- Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram
- Leave a Podcast Review
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode, we'll discuss why inventory is your most important asset
- Why should retail business owners use it?
- What fields of information are important
- 4 important metrics
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #20:
- Laura of Brushed Design Co.
- Darice blog post on getting rid of inventory
- Plan and Track like a Retail Boss workshop
- Leave a Podcast Review
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode, I'm diving into the Facebook Pixel.
- What is the Facebook Pixel?
- Why should retail business owners use it?
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #19:
- Mae’s Boutique
- Ep 12: Social Media Ads 101
- Ep 11: Five Marketing Mistakes Small Retail Business Owners are Making
- Master Shopkeepers
- Ep 3: An Instagram Blueprint for Shopkeepers
- Instagram @savvyshopkeeper
- Leave a Podcast Review
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode, I'll share 10 great retail and business podcasts
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #18:
- Ojas Akolka owner of House of Tribalfare
- Being Boss hosted by Kathleen Shannon and Emily Thompson
- Keeping Shop hosted by Rachel Wentworth
- Episode 21 of Keeping Shop, featuring Salvaged Boutique
- Business Boutique hosted by Christy Wright
- Boutique Chat hosted by Ashley Alderson
- Retail Details hosted by Becky Tyre
- Retail Today hosted by Bob Phibbs
- Retail Initiative hosted by Josh Orr
- Product Biz Made Easy hosted by Becky J. Anderson
- Ep 28 interview from Product Biz featuring Savvy Shopkeeper
- RISE with Rachel Hollis
- How I Built This with Guy Raz
- April Petersen of Pink + Frillos
- Instagram @savvyshopkeeper
- Leave a Podcast Review
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode, we'll discuss the notion between community & competition.
- Defining each separately
- Nature vs. Nurture
- Bridging the gap
- Encouraging your interpretations
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #17:
- Amy McCauley of Scout Boutique
- Sarah Nemecek of WE Profit Foundry
- Financially Confident Women Entrepreneurs Facebook Group
- Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
- Email for comments/video response
- Leave a Podcast Review
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode I cover some of the questions you should consider before builidng an e-commerce store for your retail business. I cover:
- The #1 misconception I keep hearing
- Determining the need to add Ecommerce
- Realistic efforts to support it
- How to prepare
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #16:
- Kim of Helium Studio
- Instagram@savvyshopkeeper
- Leave a review on iTunes
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
This episode is all about the importance of Loyalty Programs. I'll go over:
- Benefits of instituting a program
- Tips on how
- Free resources to help set your program up
Rewarding your customers is important and beneficial to both parties!
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #15:
- Savvy Shopkeeper
- Blooming Shopkeepers
- Master Shopkeepers
- Episode 12 - Social Media Ads 101
- Episode 9 - How well do you know your retail customer?
- Shopkeeper’s Academy Free Resources
- Beth Presher of Grit and Grace Marketing
- Leave a Review on iTunes
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode, you'll get inside info on attending AmericasMart in Atlanta. I'll review:
- Staying & getting around
- Taking advantage of free resources
- How to diversify your experience
- Tips on being an exhibitor
Everyone's experience will be different at the Market, but hopefully, this episode will give you some inside information to optimize yours!
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #14:
- Katie of Brothers Honey Co.
- FREE 5-part lesson for anyone planning on attending and buying at AmericasMart
- Instagram page @savvyshopkeeper
- AmericasMart app
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
In this episode, I went straight to the best resources. You!
This is all about successes. Categorized themes of things that worked best for our shop keepers last year. Let's get inspired and learn from each other!
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #13:
- Savvy Shopkeeper newsletter
- Instagram page @savvyshopkeeper
- A special thank you to the amazing women who own the businesses mentioned in this episode.
- Rachel Woodard Alverez of Rachel Alvarez Art
- Tammy Simerson of the Red Dresser Marketplace
- Kathy Piccari of Pineapple on Main
- Tracey Schroeder-Lucke of MelMarie Skin Care
- Maureen Koopman of The CoLab
- Kimberly DiNofrio of Tangerine and Olive
- Monica Randall Mercer of Brushed up
- Dora Cristina Zuses of Foxy Boutique and Hair Salon
- Jennifer Crilow Miller owner of Jenny Wren
- April Peterson of Pink + Frillos
- Samantha Previs of Absolutely Southern Designs
- Melissa Marini-Jackson of Gold Arrow Studios
- Tony Farmer of The Vintage Depot
- Dani Martin of Cotton Shed Vintage Market
- Kelly Ann Adamik of Kelly’s Gathering Room
- Taylor Suzanne of the Turquoise Top Hat
- Linnea White of Darling Boutique
- Lauren Connelly of Lindenmere Market
- Candice Collins of In The Pines
- Staci Egan of Contempo Jewelry and co-owner of Smith + Front
- Kelly Lyn of 714 Home
- Julia Gramenz of Fetch & Co
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
Here are 7 tips to help you become the best retail business owner you can be in 2020.
To find the offerings mentioned at the end of this bonus episode, please visit Shopkeeper's Academy.
Follow or contact me on Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
You need a plan when it comes to running ads on social media. Here are 4 things you need to know before you start spending money to advertise your business on Facebook and Instagram.
In this episode, I go over:
- Learning about your traffic
- Coming up with a strategy
- How to figure out what to spend
- Determining who your audience is
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #12:
- Jessica of Bee Joyful Shop
- Savvy Shopkeeper - Social Media Blog Post: Difference between boosting a post and running a targeted ad
- Shopkeeper’s Academy- Free Ideal Customer Avatar workbook
- Instagram page @savvyshopkeeper
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
What should we as retailers be doing to market our businesses?
In this episode, I go over:
- Free or affordable marketing tools available to retailers
- Setting social media goals
- Easy ways to optimize your online presence
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #11:
- Ashley of Salt & Honey Market
- An Instagram Blueprint - Episode 3 of our Podcast
- Savvy Shopkeeper - Free Email List paper template
- Flodesk
- How to Optimize your Google My Business Listing
- Master Shopkeepers
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
This episode is all about balance.
In this episode, I go over:
- A breakdown of necessary professional boundaries
- How to set personal boundaries
- The importance of time management
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #10:
- Charlotte of Southern Succotash
- Darice blog post - A day in the life of a retail store owner
- Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram page - @savvyshopkeeper
- Our shopkeeper community
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
The most important thing about your customers? Understanding them.
In this episode, I go over these three things:
- Understanding your ideal client
- How to keep this person top of mind when creating content
- Connecting with your customers on an intimate level
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #9:
- Shopkeeper Spotlight, Julie of Heart ‘n Home
- Shopkeeper's Academy Customer Avatar workbook
- Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram page - @savvyshopkeeper
- Full Show Notes for Episode 9
This episode is sponsored by Darice.
The holidays are upon us. We all need savvy ways to get ready.
In this episode, I will go over:
- Prepping for the Holiday Season
- Tools to get ahead and stay organized
- Unique ideas to stay sane, fun and engaging
Links mentioned in Episode #8:
- Episode 8 Full Show Notes
- Shopkeeper Spotlight: Melissa, owner of Gracious Leigh Gifts
- Savvy Shopkeeper’s Facebook Community
- One-On-One Coaching
- Holiday Guide for Planning (Darice Article)
- Scratch Off Cards Tutorial
- Seasonal Gift Wrap Items (Darice)
- Tips for Creating Eye-Catching Window Displays (Darice Article)
- Point of Sale Systems (Darice Article)
- Savvy Shopkeeper Podcast Episode 4 "Increasing Average Sale"
- Facebook Ad Text Overlay Tool
- Build a Selfie Station
- Pineapple on Main
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Subscribe on: Apple, Stitcher, Spotify This episode is sponsored by Darice. For over 65 years Darice has been a premier distributor of arts and crafts. From bulk supplies to on-trend home décor pieces, Darice has a broad selection of over 45,000 items across hundreds of product categories. Since its beginning, Darice has prided itself on being focused on the independent retailer. Let them be both your DIY source AND your resource. Their website features trend reports, small business tools, in-store project ideas and more. To best serve small businesses, Darice offers a low minimum order of just $75 and all orders ship at no additional cost! Visit Darice.com today to see their amazing product assortment at pricing you won’t believe. Listen to the episode for a special discount offer and code from Darice.
Simply put, the more engagement you get on your posts, the more social media visibility you gain.
In this episode, I go over:
- How to measure your engagement rate on social media and some of the tools that can help you do this
- Getting to know your customers, and how to leverage that info
- 5 Fun and easy ways to engage with your followers
Links mentioned in Episode #7:
- Melissa Marini Jackson of Gold Arrow Studios
- The Salvaged Boutique
- Episode 3 “An Instagram Blueprint for Shopkeepers"
- Phlanx
- Triberr
- HOOTSUITE
- Pic Stitch
- Savvy Shopkeeper Instagram
- Episode 7 full show notes
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
The best tax advice out there? Don't push off bookkeeping and tax responsibilities.
In this episode, I will go over:
- Systematic ways to keep track of your finances
- Scheduling tools to keep you on track
- Where to turn when you need help
Links mentioned in Episode #6:
- Lisa Bridenbaker of Bridenbaker Designs
- Savvy Support Fund
- Wave Receipts App
- Savvy Shopkeepers Facebook Group
- Savvy Shopkeeper Website
- Episode 6 Full Show Notes
There are plenty of other ways, practices, and tools to help streamline your taxes but this should be a good start.
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Participating in a Brick and Mortar store Pop-Up can be easy and fun! Take a few things into consideration beforehand, and prepare to love holding these.
Pop-Ups benefit both the Maker and the Store Owner.
In this episode, I go over:
- Important goals to outline before participating in a Pop-Up
- What to put down on paper for both parties
- The benefits of participating
- Social media support pages/group
Links mentioned in Episode #5:
- Our store on Instagram The Salvaged Boutique: @thesalvagedboutique
- Savvy Shopkeepers Facebook Group
- Savvy Shopkeeper Website
- Episode 5 show notes
Until the next episode, be savvy and boss up!
Subscribe on: Apple, Stitcher, Spotify
This episode is sponsored by Darice. For over 65 years Darice has been a premier distributor of arts and crafts. From bulk supplies to on-trend home décor pieces, Darice has a broad selection of over 45,000 items across hundreds of product categories. Since its beginning, Darice has prided itself on being focused on the independent retailer. Let them be both your DIY source AND your resource. Their website features trend reports, small business tools, in-store project ideas and more. To best serve small businesses, Darice offers a low minimum order of just $75 and all orders ship at no additional cost! Visit Darice.com today to see their amazing product assortment at pricing you won’t believe. Listen to the episode for a special discount offer and code from Darice.**
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER SHOWNOTES: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode4/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER WEBSITE: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPERS FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/groups/savvyshopkeepers/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER SHOWNOTES: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode3/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER WEBSITE: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPERS FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/groups/savvyshopkeepers/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER SHOWNOTES: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/episode2/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER WEBSITE: https://savvyshopkeeper.com/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPERS FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/groups/savvyshopkeepers/
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/savvyshopkeeper/
Learn about Kathy Cruz and the Savvy Shopkeeper brand and mission. Find out what you can expect in upcoming episodes.
This has been a long time coming! It’s been months since I blogged, but for good reason. I spent the past two months learning how to podcast, finding an editor, partnering with a sponsor, and creating “all the things” to get ready for this launch.
Well, it’s finally here – the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast! My goal is to provide you with a weekly podcast that’s easily digestible, maybe 20 minutes or so, where I teach you one valuable tool or lesson about shopkeeping.
I have a long-running list of topics that shopkeepers have been asking me for and I’m ready to dive in – I hope you are too!
Episode 1 covers the who, what, where, when, how and why of the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast.
It’s an introduction to me, the mission of Savvy Shopkeeper and what you can expect from the podcast.
I’ll be starting off this series with 12 episodes that I’m proud to say are sponsored by Darice. If I’ve learned anything from partnering with Darice, it’s that they are just as committed to helping independent retailers as I am.
If you take a moment to listen to Darice’s sponsor ad during this episode, you’ll get a special discount code for your next order – trust me, it’s worth it because they don’t offer this type of discount to anyone else – it’s just for Savvy Shopkeeper!
Just like any other entrepreneurial journey, I’m sure I’ll learn a lot, make changes and improvements, depending on your needs…because this podcast is for YOU.
Links to articles or resources mentioned in Episode #1:
Forbes article by Janice Gassam, “New Research Finds That Supporting Female Entrepreneurs Could Boost Global Economy By $5 Trillion”
Shopkeeper’s Academy
Savvy Shopkeepers Free Facebook Group
Savvy Shopkeeper Website
If you have feedback or episode suggestions, please use this contact form to send me a message. If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and submit a review. I would GREATLY appreciate it!
Until episode #2… Be Savvy and Boss up!