Elevating E-commerce: Unveiling the Secrets of Luxury Brand, Saks.com with CEO Marc Metrick

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we sit down with Amanda Baldwin, the newly appointed CEO of Olaplex and former CEO of Supergoop, for an in-depth conversation about her remarkable career journey—from Wall Street to the heart of the beauty industry. Amanda shares how her early curiosity about brands evolved into a passion for consumer-driven storytelling, innovation, and leadership in some of the world’s most iconic beauty companies.We explore her pivotal career moments, including her transition from finance to beauty, the foundational experiences she gained at Estée Lauder and LVMH, and how she scaled Supergoop from a small team to a category-defining brand. Now at the helm of Olaplex, Amanda outlines her vision for rebuilding brand strength, deepening pro community relationships, and driving innovation through groundbreaking R&D.This episode offers a masterclass in brand leadership, navigating industry change, and staying grounded in purpose while scaling globally.If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to like, follow, and leave a review—it helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you these powerful insights.Show Notes:Amanda’s early curiosity about consumer brands and storytellingLessons learned from Wall Street, Estée Lauder, and LVMHThe early growth story of Supergoop and how innovation drove scaleWhy product quality and emotional connection are non-negotiable for brand longevityOlaplex’s patented technology, salon-first strategy, and Amanda’s plans to reinvigorate the brandInvesting in team, infrastructure, and culture as part of operational excellenceNavigating the public markets while staying focused on long-term brand valueAdvice for early-career professionals and the role of mentorship in her successHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

13 Maj 35min

A few weeks ago, I wrote an open letter to President Trump urging him to reverse the extreme tariffs and embargoes imposed on China. These policies have had a significant impact on the apparel, footwear, and toy industries—industries that have long operated offshore due to cost efficiencies and global supply chains. The response was overwhelming: over 800 reactions, 70,000 views, and 50+ reposts on LinkedIn, reflecting broad concern across the industry.However, the post also sparked a thoughtful and passionate response from a former colleague who sees a different path forward—one that includes a revival of U.S.-based manufacturing.In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we sit down for a grounded, no-holds-barred conversation about tariffs, trade, and the real-world ripple effects on American business. Joining me are:Adrian Miramontes, COO/CFO of Boston Proper, a women’s apparel brand that manufactures 80%+ of its product in China and now faces existential risk due to tariff-related cost increases.Jan Rogers Kniffen, CEO of J Rogers Kniffen Worldwide and longtime retail executive and CNBC contributor, who shares sobering insights on the long-term hollowing out of U.S. manufacturing.Bear Clark, Chief Innovation Instigator at Ear Micro and a pioneer in the hearables industry, who once ran a thriving U.S.-based manufacturing company—until Chinese subsidies and trade shifts changed everything.Together, we explore both sides of the issue—from the hopeful possibilities of automation and fair trade to the painful reality many small-to-mid-sized retailers now face. Whether you're a policymaker, entrepreneur, or consumer, this episode will challenge how you think about global sourcing, pricing, and the future of U.S. industry.You’ll Learn:Why my call to reverse tariffs gained massive traction—and pushbackHow Chinese subsidies disrupted entire U.S. industries, one bid at a timeWhy companies like Boston Proper depend on Chinese manufacturingWhat domestic production could look like in the age of automation and AIWhy rushed trade policy reform could do more harm than good without a planThe moral and economic case for reciprocal trade and environmental accountabilityTopics Covered:The decline of American manufacturing over six decadesFast fashion, fair labor, and environmental implicationsTariffs as economic tools: punishment, leverage, or necessity?What a balanced and effective trade strategy might actually look likeFinal Thoughts:We may not all agree on the solution, but this conversation marks a critical starting point: how can the U.S. support fair, strategic trade that benefits workers, business owners, and consumers alike—without trading stability for short-term politics?Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

9 Maj 48min

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot sits down with Daniella Vitale, CEO of Ferragamo and one of the most influential leaders in luxury retail. From wrapping gifts at a small shop in New Jersey to leading some of the biggest names in fashion — including Armani, Gucci, Barneys New York, Tiffany & Co., and now Ferragamo — Daniella shares her remarkable career journey, pivotal leadership lessons, and deep passion for product innovation.Daniella opens up about navigating the digital transformation of legacy brands, scaling Ferragamo’s digital business, and why authentic customer experiences are the future of luxury. She also discusses her philosophy on leadership, career advice for the next generation, and how Ferragamo is evolving its women's business to drive growth in a challenging global market.Whether you're an aspiring fashion executive, a retail enthusiast, or a brand leader navigating change, Daniella’s insights will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to take bold chances.Show Notes:Introduction to Daniella Vitale’s career in luxury retail, including her leadership roles at Armani, Gucci, Barneys New York, Tiffany & Co., and FerragamoHow wrapping gifts as a teenager sparked her lifelong passion for retailThe importance of embracing both product and operations to become a successful CEODaniella’s experience launching digital at Gucci and transforming Barneys' online businessLessons learned from leading Barneys through financial challenges and innovationDriving Ferragamo’s digital growth and building an omnichannel strategyHow Ferragamo is shifting from a men's shoe powerhouse to a women's leather goods leaderThe critical role of customer experiences, lifestyle branding, and storytelling in luxury todayInsight into the evolving challenges in the luxury retail market — from tariffs to changing consumer behaviorsDaniella’s leadership approach: building cohesive, collaborative, and empathetic teamsAdvice for young professionals entering the retail and fashion industriesRapid-fire questions: favorite brands, dream city to live in, favorite shows, and who she’d love to meetIf you found value in this episode, don’t forget to share it with your network and help us spread these inspiring lessons across the industry!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

29 Apr 42min

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot welcomes PJ Oleksak, the dynamic CEO of Nuts.com and the first woman and non-family member to lead the 94-year-old business. With a rich background that includes leadership roles at FreshDirect and Slice, PJ shares how she combines a deep understanding of finance with a passion for food to lead transformative change in legacy brands. She walks us through her journey from private equity to pioneering online grocery, her leadership philosophy, and how she’s steering Nuts.com toward omnichannel growth.PJ also discusses the challenges and opportunities in modernizing a family-owned business—building a performance-driven culture, embracing AI and tech innovation, and preparing to launch a sister retail brand. Whether you're in e-commerce, food retail, or scaling a family business, this episode offers practical wisdom on navigating growth while staying true to your roots.Show Notes:Guest: PJ Oleksak, CEO of Nuts.comBackground: Former Chief Growth Officer at FreshDirect and Chief Business Officer at SliceTopics Covered:PJ’s transition from private equity to food techLessons learned from FreshDirect and SliceModernizing a 94-year-old business and earning trust as an outsiderBuilding high-performing, happy teams and instilling accountabilityThe cultural and operational shifts at Nuts.com under her leadershipStrategic moves toward omnichannel growth and retail distributionThe impact of AI across departments, from sales to creativeHow Nuts.com is adapting to rising cocoa costs and sourcing challengesLeadership philosophy and importance of founder-CEO alignmentLooking ahead: launching a sister brand and expanding customer reachKey Insight: Balancing legacy with innovation requires empathy, structure, and a relentless focus on the customer experience.Sponsored by FireworkHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

15 Apr 35min

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot dives into the future of branding and retail innovation with Emily Heyward & JB Osborne, Co-Founders of Red Antler and a pre-flight discussion with retail futurist Jan Kniffen. From the transformative role of AI in customer experience to the secret sauce behind some of today’s most iconic brands, this conversation explores how emotional resonance, creativity, and technology intersect in modern retail. Ken, Emily, and JB also discuss brand building from scratch, the challenges of rebranding, and their venture fund Habitat Partners. Plus, they reflect on favorite campaigns, dream brand revivals, and the evolving landscape of consumer expectations.Show NotesKen Pilot introduces the episode with commentary from retail expert Jan Kniffen on the seismic impact of AI across industries, especially in retail.Jan shares why AI will redefine omnichannel experiences and customer expectations, emphasizing the urgency for retailers to invest or fall behind.Emily Hayward and JB Osborne join Ken to discuss Red Antler’s approach to branding, which centers on empathy, storytelling, and strategic creativity.Insights into how Red Antler partners with early-stage founders and legacy businesses, building emotional connections through meaningful brand positioning.Reflections on helping launch brands like Allbirds, Casper, Burrow, and Hinge, including the challenges and rewards of naming and storytelling.Candid thoughts on the rise and stumbles of DTC pioneers and how capital structure, not branding, often drives downfall.A look at Habitat Partners, their investment arm, and why equity plays helped foster long-term alignment with founders.Exploration of how AI is impacting creative workflows, campaign ideation, and brand communication.Rapid fire favorites, from travel destinations to go-to coffee brands, and the dream jobs Emily and JB would pursue outside of Red Antler.Plus, JB and Emily name the brands they’d love to reimagine—from OpenTable to LinkedIn—and share their vision for brand leadership in a tech-driven era.This episode is sponsored by Firework.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

1 Apr 44min

In this inspiring episode of The Retail Pilot: Leaders & Legends, host Ken Pilot sits down with EGOT-winning artist and entrepreneur John Legend, alongside brand builder Ari Bloom, co-founder and CEO of A-Frame Brands. Together, they unpack the story behind their inclusive skincare line Loved01—a brand created with intention, affordability, and care for melanin-rich and sensitive skin.John shares how his dual passion for music and academics shaped his career, why love is the foundation of everything he creates, and what it’s like building a brand with his longtime stylistic and creative team. Ari details the strategy behind launching socially conscious brands through A-Frame, lessons from live selling on QVC and Amazon, and how the data is shaping their next moves.👉 Promo Code: Get 25% off your next Loved01 purchase at Loved01.com with code PILOT25 — valid through May 1.📌 Chapters & Highlights:.John’s Early Career PathFrom piano lessons at 4 to BCG consultant by day and musician by night—how John balanced brains and creativity.The Origin of A-Frame & Loved01Ari shares how A-Frame Brands came to life and why teaming up with John was a natural fit.Why the Name “Loved01”The personal meaning behind the brand name and how it reflects self-care and connection.Filling the Skincare GapDesigning products for melanin-rich and aging skin—without celebrity price tags.Formulation & Sourcing StrategyHow Loved01 created high-quality, plant-based products domestically with no compromises.Chrissy Teigen’s Favorite ProductsWhat John’s wife loves about the brand—and why their $15 exfoliator beats high-end competitors.Retail Approach & AffordabilityThe importance of being accessible—through retailers like CVS, Amazon, and QVC.The Power of Live SellingWhy QVC, CBS, and Amazon are outperforming traditional ad spend—and how John’s charisma shines through.Using Data to Drive GrowthHow real-time feedback helps the team pivot, learn, and win with the right audiences.Expanding the Brand & What’s NextNew products, fragrance updates, B2B partnerships, and opportunities in hospitality.Rapid Fire FunJohn shares his favorite clothing brands, travel destination, dream meeting, and more.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

25 Mars 29min

On this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot welcomes the visionary designer and founder, Jonathan Adler. Known for his signature blend of chic sophistication and playful wit, Jonathan shares his incredible journey from an aspiring potter to building a global design empire. From his early days spinning clay at summer camp to landing his first collection at Barney’s and expanding into furniture, lighting, and decor—this episode is packed with insights on resilience, creativity, and building a timeless brand.Jonathan also speaks into the intersection of business and design, the importance of humor in his work, his collaboration with Consortium, and his vision for the future of retail. Plus, hear about his relationship with husband Simon Doonan, the lessons he's learned over 30+ years in business, and why he believes in the power of "more."Key Takeaways:🔹 How Jonathan Adler transformed his passion for pottery into a global lifestyle brand🔹 The importance of humor and storytelling in design🔹 The business lessons he learned the hard way (including forgetting to send his first invoice!)🔹 Why he believes in the power of “more” when it comes to brand expansion🔹 His favorite sources of inspiration, from Slim Aarons to travel destinations💡 Enjoyed the episode? Leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

18 Mars 43min

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot kicks off with a PreFlight segment featuring retail expert Jan Kniffen. They dive into the ever-changing sneaker market, discussing Nike’s comeback, the rise of On Running and Hoka, and how brands like Skechers and New Balance are shaking up the industry.Following PreFlight, Ken welcomes special guest Sarah LaFleur, Founder and CEO of M.M.LaFleur, for an insightful conversation about how she built a brand that redefined workwear for women. From launching the company in 2013 to navigating the challenges of COVID and financial setbacks, Sarah shares her journey of resilience, innovation, and customer-driven design.Learn how M.M.LaFleur’s mission to simplify dressing for professional women has evolved, how Sarah leveraged trunk shows and word-of-mouth marketing to scale the brand, and why she believes adaptability is key to entrepreneurial success. Plus, she shares insights on the future of retail, the role of AI in fashion, and her vision for M.M.LaFleur in the next decade.Key Takeaways:✈️ PreFlight with Jan Kniffen:🔹 The rise of smaller sneaker brands and how they’re impacting Nike & Adidas🔹 Why Nike is poised for a strong comeback in 2025-2026🔹 How the running shoe market is evolving and what it means for retailers🛫 Main Interview with Sarah LaFleur:🔹 The inspiration behind M.M.LaFleur and how it started🔹 How Sarah built a brand focused on function, fashion, and ease🔹 The impact of COVID on retail and how M.M.LaFleur pivoted🔹 Raising capital and overcoming financial hurdles in record time🔹 The future of retail and the role of AI in fashion🔹 The power of mentorship and community support🎧 Listen Now on Your Favorite Podcast Platform!Don’t forget to leave us a review and share this episode.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

4 Mars 41min