The RetailWire Podcast

What if the traditional retail shopping experience you've known is rapidly changing, influenced by technology, and the impact it's having is not just on our shopping habits, but on human interaction overall? This is the intriguing narrative we explore in a thoughtful conversation with our special guest, Mark Self, President/CEO of Vector Textiles and a seasoned technology veteran. Mark brings a unique blend of experiences in tech, sales, marketing, and business development.
This episode navigates the changing landscape of retail, how customer-clerk interactions have been replaced by self-checkouts and delivery services, and how these changes are shaping younger generations. We delve into how social media is impacting their confidence in presenting and interacting with people. Mark also shares his insightful experience mentoring high school students in technology, reminding us that mentoring is an effective way to bridge the gap between formal education and practical application.
Further into our discussion, we contemplate the value of liberal arts education in a technology-driven world, arguing for the importance of soft skills in the language of technology. We contrast our personal customer service experiences, emphasizing why well-trained staff can lead to a more immersive customer experience. Finally, we reiterate the importance of rehumanizing retail, reminding us that technology should not replace person-to-person interaction. Join us on this thought-provoking journey that redefines the traditional retail experience.
-----
Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marklself/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.
Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!
To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

What’s the secret to navigating a career that spans a fascination with business from childhood, pioneering work in geographic information systems, and community engagement? We had the privilege of sitting down with Brian Numainville - a member of our BrainTrust, Principal at The Feedback Group - who unveils his personal journey, filled with insightful stories and practical advice. From branding and marketing a research department for Nash Finch Company's corporate stores to creating a community program 'Feeding Imagination', Brian’s professional journey is one you’ll not want to miss.
In the throes of 2023, we grapple with some of the most pressing issues facing the retail industry. Brian sheds light on how inflation, food price inflation, and the challenges of employee retention and attraction are impacting retail and how organizations are typically responding. But it's not all doom and gloom. Our conversation brings to light the importance of listening to employees, fostering a culture of communication, and effectively addressing these issues in practical ways.
Wading into the waters of technology, we engage in a fascinating discussion about the advances in AR and VR. In his leadership role at The Feedback Group, Brian provides insightful perspectives on AI advancements and the sociable aspects of VR. We also explore the power of podcast platforms and the role they play in fostering engaging conversations. By the end of this chat, you’ll be left with a greater understanding of the retail landscape in 2023, the potential of technology in the industry, and some food for thought on taking a leap towards your future. So, plug in your earphones and let us take you on this informative journey!
-----
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/numainville/
Check out The Feedback Group: https://feedbackgroup.com/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.
Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!
To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Unlock the mysteries of email marketing with Brian Cardona of AtData and RetailWire BrainTrust host Mark Price, as we dissect the role of email addresses in the digital marketing landscape. Our discussion peels back the layers of how these digital identifiers are reshaping customer engagement strategies, especially with the shift in traditional metric visibility due to Apple's Mail Privacy Protection. If you've ever wondered about the resilience of your email list in the face of changing privacy laws and the decline of third-party cookies, this conversation will illuminate the path toward a privacy-compliant marketing future.
Prepare to navigate the intricacies of inbox placement and sender reputation with intelligence from the forefront of email validation services. The introduction of engagement scores, pioneered by Safe2Send, is transforming how retailers refine their communication channels. This episode is a guiding light for marketers aiming to maintain relevance and authenticity in their customer outreach, as we discuss the art of balancing the evolving digital ecosystem with innovative targeting and communication strategies.
Brian Cardona offers his expert insights on the impact of GDPR and CPRA, and how first-party data reigns supreme in the age of transparency. So if you're ready to elevate your understanding of customers and lead the way in privacy-conscious marketing, make sure to tune in and join our community of retail enthusiasts.

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.
Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!
To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Welcome to another episode of The RetailWire Podcast! In this installment of our series "Meet the BRAINTRUST," our host sits down with Brian Cluster, a valued member of the BRAINTRUST in the retail industry.
During the interview, Brian Cluster shares his expertise in category analytics and promotional analytics, shedding light on the importance of understanding the origins of data as an analyst. He emphasizes the need for newcomers to the industry to acquire cross-functional knowledge within their company, enabling them to have a broader perspective on the retail landscape.
Continuing the discussion, Brian highlights the significance of maintaining a student mindset and constantly seeking opportunities for learning and growth. Drawing from his own experiences, he also shares his passion for fishing and underscores the power of storytelling in marketing.
As the episode concludes, our host encourages listeners to subscribe to the podcast and leave their comments and feedback. Your engagement is vital to shaping future discussions and ensuring that we continue to provide valuable content to our audience.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of The RetailWire Podcast, and stay tuned for more insightful conversations with industry experts like Brian Cluster.
-----
Learn about Stibo Systems in Retail: https://www.stibosystems.com/industries/retail
Connect with Brian Cluster: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancluster/
Interested in Toastmasters? Be a guest at San Diego’s Leadership Builders Club: https://www.toastmasters.org/Find-a-Club/00009550-leadership-builders

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.
Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!
To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.

Get ready for an engaging and lively episode of The RetailWire Podcast as host Brian Crum welcomes David Spear, the dynamic former senior partner at Teradata and current vice president of professional services at NCR Corporation. Join the conversation as they dive into David's impressive career journey, spanning Fortune 100 and 500 companies, and discover his fascinating hobbies outside of work, including his CrossFit adventures, golfing escapades with his sons, and his pursuit of crafting the perfect old fashioned cocktail during the challenging times of COVID-19.

Hold on tight as they explore the incredible impact of the digital revolution, uncovering the limitless potential of data analytics across all industries. Brace yourself for insights on how technology is continuously evolving, particularly in the retail landscape. They reveal the secret sauce behind successful companies like 7-Eleven in the Asia Pacific region, emphasizing the significance of catering to local markets and demographics.

Prepare to be inspired as Brian shares his own career trajectory, revealing the pivotal role of determination and perseverance in achieving success. Unlock the keys to a thriving future as they discuss the essential skills of data analytics and staying ahead of emerging technologies for aspiring professionals entering the workforce.

The transcript will take you on an exhilarating ride, unpacking the importance of data analytics, digital transformation, and the intriguing world of artificial intelligence (AI) in the retail industry. Marvel at the realization that every company has become a data company, and discover how a deep understanding of these areas can propel your career to new heights. Hold your breath as they delve into the upsides and downsides of AI, tackling the pressing issue of privacy concerns in this data-driven era.

Listen closely as their guest, David Spear, shares invaluable advice on problem-solving, revealing the secrets of failing fast and employing the 80/20 Rule to optimize your time. Embrace the power of curiosity as he encourages you to ask bold questions and approach challenges from multiple angles, leading to groundbreaking solutions. And hey, if you're eager to connect with David, he's just a click away on LinkedIn. Just make sure to mention that you heard about him on The RetailWire Podcast, so he knows you're not there for a sales pitch!

Before bidding adieu, the hosts make sure to remind you to hit that subscribe button and leave your thoughts in the comments section. Who knows? Your comment might just snag a spot in a future episode, giving you the chance to shine in the RetailWire community.

So, get ready for an exhilarating ride as The RetailWire Podcast invites you to explore the dynamic world of data analytics, digital transformation, and everything in between. Let's dive in!
-----
Connect with David Spear: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-spear-6b82a5b/

RetailWire is the retail industry's premier source for news, analysis, and discussion. With a focus on the latest trends, technology, and consumer behavior, RetailWire provides a platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share their insights and perspectives. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, RetailWire is your go-to destination for staying informed and ahead of the curve.
Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you think. You might even hear your comment read on the next episode!
To learn more, or to join our Daily Discussions, visit RetailWire.com.