The Power of Empathy and Authentic Leadership: A Conversation with Ron Thurston

Send us a message and let us know what you think!

What if retail could be more than just a job? Join us on Retail Relates as we chat with Ron Thurston, co-founder of Ossy and best-selling author of Retail Pride, to uncover the secrets of turning a retail career into a passion-driven journey. Ron's inspiring stories, from pioneering showrooming at Bonobos to redefining field leadership at Apple, provide invaluable insights for anyone eager to learn from a true industry innovator. Discover how emotional connection, empathy, and authentic leadership can transform not just your career but the entire retail experience.
We dive into the philosophy of strengths-based leadership, stressing the importance of leveraging individual talents over correcting weaknesses. Ron sheds light on how empathy, curiosity, and focus can create effective leaders in the chaotic retail environment. We also discuss how AI is revolutionizing retail by automating mundane tasks, freeing up more time for meaningful customer interactions and team engagement. It’s all about finding joy in your work and working for companies that recognize and value your strengths.
Finally, we explore the profound impact of building authentic retail connections and the vital role of trust between frontline employees and corporate leadership. Ron's journey across the country, living in an RV and meeting proud retail workers, emphasizes the essential role retail plays in communities, especially in smaller towns. We wrap up with a fun rapid-fire segment, revealing Ron's personal favorites and celebrating the joy of a retail career. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice for anyone passionate about retail.
Ron's Biography:
Ron Thurston's life mission is to celebrate, elevate, and empower the people and spirit of the retail industry. His passion is evident in his over three decades of experience leading retail stores and operations for top American brands such as Gap, West Elm, Apple, Tory Burch, Bonobos, and Saint Laurent. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Stores at Intermix, where he honed an extensive skill set in retail strategy, management, and innovation.

Ron is not just a retail leader but also the bestselling author of "Retail Pride," an indispensable guide for accelerating careers in retail. With over 25 years of leadership experience with prominent fashion brands, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. He is consistently recognized as one of the most influential people in the retail industry. As the host of the RETAIL IN AMERICA podcast and tour, Ron traveled across the nation in an Airstream trailer during 2022 and 2023 to uncover and highlight remarkable stories and individuals in retail. He also serves on the advisory boards of rapidly growing retail tech companies, including Ometria, Butterfly, and YOOBIC, lending his expertise to drive their success. He gives back as a Goodwill NY/NJ board of directors member.

In 2024, Ron co-founded OSSY, a forward-thinking retail recruiting agency that addresses the industry's hiring and recruiting challenges. This venture reinforces Ron’s unwavering commitment to retail.
Follow Ron at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rthurston/