Throwback Episode --- Millard "Mickey" Drexler: A candid conversation about the life and career of an actual Retail "Legend" - Part 1

This episode of The Retail Pilot - Tech Talk - features Ken Pilot's interview with Joe Yakuel, Co-Founder & CEO of brkfst.io, and three of his customers.Soumya Sriraman is an experienced CEO and general manager with deep expertise in building streaming businesses across a variety of media companies. She most recently led Qurate Retail Group’s streaming commerce business, which includes the QVC+ and HSN+ and previous to that she led the Amazon channels business.Stephen Simonis is a strategic advisor, investor and mentor to many leading CPG brands, and is currently Chief Revenue Officer at The Beard Club.Cezanne Huq is A veteran marketer and product strategist and brings nearly 27 years of management, product and digital marketing experience leading in-house and agency teams domestically and globally for large-scale brands. Most recently, Cezanne led the digital teams for HelloFresh, Molekule, Lifelock, Intuit and Experian.In this podcast interview, we learn about how brkfst.io helps brands create authentic content tailored to audience and platform. Receive hundreds of UGC video ads from over 5,000 content creators within 3 weeks.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

13 Aug 202457min

Ken Pilot interviews Tim Parr, CEO & Founder of Caddis, for this flight of The Retail Pilot podcast.Tim Parr is the CEO and Founder of CADDIS, an eyewear brand that crushes age stereotypes. He believes in defying our society’s addiction to youth and fueling getting older and owning it. Tim is an entrepreneur who has also worked for some of the most respected brands. Patagonia, L.L. Bean, Filson. Tim has lectured at the Stanford School of Design, Modern Elder Academy, San Francisco Academy of Art, and the California College of Arts. In 2013 he formed a bluegrass band and hit the road touring the Western United States.SummaryTim Parr, the founder of CADDIS, shares his journey of starting a lifestyle brand focused on eyewear for people over the age of 40. He discusses the broken customer experience in the eyewear market and the opportunity to create a brand that is authentic and transparent. Tim emphasizes the importance of owning one's age and challenges the ageism prevalent in society. He also talks about the size of the 50+ demographic and the potential for growth in the market. Tim shares his approach to marketing, including the use of in-person experiences and tangible materials like catalogs. He highlights the significance of strong design, brand position, and storytelling in attracting customers. Tim also mentions his mentors and the challenges of maintaining innovation and creativity in the business.TakeawaysThe eyewear market for people over the age of 40 has a broken customer experience, creating an opportunity for a brand like CADDIS to provide authentic and transparent products.Owning one's age is a powerful message that resonates with the 50+ demographic, which controls a significant portion of household income and spending power.In-person experiences and tangible materials like catalogs can be effective marketing tools for a lifestyle brand, allowing customers to connect with the brand on a deeper level.Strong design, brand position, and storytelling are essential for attracting customers and building a successful brand.Having mentors, both male and female, can provide valuable guidance and support in building a business.Maintaining innovation and creativity is a challenge for leaders, but it is crucial for the long-term success of a brand.Chapters00:00Introduction and Tim's Journey04:04Identifying the 40+ Market for Eyewear06:02The Origin and Importance of the CADIS Name07:15Owning Your Age and Challenging Ageism10:53The Size and Potential of the 50+ Demographic14:18Elevating the CADIS Brand and Attracting Celebrities19:24Differentiating from Competitors like Warby Parker21:47The Importance of Authenticity and Creativity in Marketing25:58The Role of Tangible Marketing in Connecting with Customers26:05Tim's Role as CEO and Leadership Challenges29:04Margins and Product Manufacturing32:11Advice for Tim's Past Self and Lessons Learned34:30Mentors and the Importance of Innovation and Creativity36:23Rapid Fire QuestionsHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

6 Aug 202434min

Ken Pilot interviews Janet Hayes, CEO of Crate & Barrel Holdings, for this episode of The Retail Pilot podcast.SummaryJanet Hayes, CEO of Crate and Barrel Holdings, shares her journey into retail and her experience leading the company. Crate and Barrel Holdings is a multi-brand, multi-platform, multi-country company with four brands: Crate and Barrel, CB2, Crate and Kids, and Hudson Grace. Hayes discusses the strategy behind physical retail and the importance of providing exceptional shopping experiences. She emphasizes the need to inspire customers and make the buying process easier, especially in the home furnishings industry. Hayes also highlights the investment in store design, technology, and employee training to enhance the customer experience. Crate and Barrel has been addressing tech debt and selectively replacing technology to improve the customer experience. The company has a comprehensive strategy that includes technology, process, and culture changes. The leadership team consists of both tenured individuals and new hires, bringing a balance of experience and innovation. Crate and Barrel is focused on international growth, particularly in Europe and Canada. The company is preparing for the future of home decor by considering the impact of AI and maintaining a focus on quality and sustainability. Collaborations with influential partners have been successful in keeping the brands fresh. The marketing strategy is shifting towards digital and personalized content. Janet Hayes is motivated by the commitment to customers and employees, and she enjoys the energy and growth of the retail industry.TakeawaysJanet Hayes has over 30 years of experience in retail and has worked for companies like Macy's, Gap, Nike, and Williams Sonoma before joining Crate and Barrel Holdings as CEO.Crate and Barrel Holdings is a multi-brand company with four brands: Crate and Barrel, CB2, Crate and Kids, and Hudson Grace.The strategy behind physical retail for Crate and Barrel Holdings is to provide exceptional shopping experiences and inspire customers.Investments have been made in store design, technology, and employee training to enhance the customer experience.Crate and Barrel Holdings is focused on market share and has gained significant market share in the home furnishings industry.The company is investing in a new POS system that will enable associates to take transactions wherever the customer is, providing a seamless and convenient shopping experience. Crate and Barrel is addressing tech debt and selectively replacing technology to improve the customer experience.The company has a comprehensive strategy that includes technology, process, and culture changes.The leadership team consists of both tenured individuals and new hires, bringing a balance of experience and innovation.Crate and Barrel is focused on international growth, particularly in Europe and Canada.The company is preparing for the future of home decor by considering the impact of AI and maintaining a focus on quality and sustainability.Collaborations with influential partners have been successful in keeping the brands fresh.The marketing strategy is shifting towards digital and personalized content.Janet Hayes is motivated by the commitment to customers and employees, and she enjoys the energy and growth of the retail industry.Chapters00:00Introduction and Janet Hayes' Journey into Retail08:23Taking on the Role of CEO at Crate and Barrel Holdings11:24The Strategy Behind Physical Retail at Crate and Barrel Holdings18:57Investing in Exceptional Shopping Experiences23:15Enhancing the Customer Experience with...Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

30 Juli 202442min

Enjoy a replay of this beloved episode of The Retail Pilot podcast.In this episode, Ken sits down with Ryan Babenzien, the brilliant mind behind Greats, a renowned footwear brand that has taken the industry by storm. But today, Ryan is here to share his latest venture: Jolie, a groundbreaking showerhead filter brand.Join Ken as he delves into Ryan's entrepreneurial journey, from building a successful sneaker empire to tackling a new frontier in personal care.Discover the inspiration behind Jolie and how Ryan's passion for sustainability and wellness led him to revolutionize the way we experience showers.Key Takeaways from this podcast include:· Career Path and Transition to Retail: Ryan initially studied economics and considered a career in finance but pivoted to entertainment, eventually transitioning to retail. His experience in entertainment, where he represented celebrity talent and advised brands on product placement, honed his marketing skills and influenced his later ventures in retail and brand building.· Founding Greats and Its Success: Babenzian founded Greats, the first digitally native footwear brand, in 2014. His knowledge of footwear and the direct-to-consumer (D2C) model contributed to its rapid success. Greats was sold to Steve Madden in 2019. This venture taught him valuable lessons in brand building and the challenges of online businesses involving products with sizing.· Jolie Skin Co's Innovative Approach: Inspired by the inefficiencies he observed with products that have sizing, Babenzian founded Jolie Skin Co, focusing on water purity for better skin, hair, and well-being. Jolie offers a subscription-based model with a showerhead that includes a filter to purify water, addressing contaminants that can harm skin and hair.· Marketing and Growth Strategy: Jolie's growth strategy heavily relies on user-generated content (UGC) and organic marketing. Instead of spending heavily on paid advertising, they focused on influencer marketing at a micro level, leading to 5,000 pieces of UGC in their first year. This grassroots approach has been pivotal in creating a strong community and driving efficient, profitable growth.· Efficient Business Model and Future Outlook: Jolie became profitable within six months, aided by its subscription model and low churn rate. With a small team of three full-time employees and several contract partners, they have efficiently scaled the business, projecting significant growth. Babenzian aims for a strategic exit within 36 months, building on the lessons from his first entrepreneurial venture and maintaining a clear focus on profitability and sustainable growth.· Importance of Multi-Channel Distribution: Ryan emphasizes that relying solely on direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales is not sustainable due to the high costs of digital marketing. He advocates for a diverse retail strategy, which includes being in various retail channels and marketplaces like hair salons, Goop, Erewhon, Home Depot, and Target. This diversified approach helps in maintaining profitability and reaching a broader customer base.· Direct-to-Consumer Still Dominates: Despite the emphasis on multi-channel distribution, over 90% of Jolie's business remains direct-to-consumer. This channel is profitable from the first purchase, highlighting its importance to the company. Additionally, 15% of their top line comes from Amazon, showcasing the significance of leveraging well-established digital marketplaces.· Potential Retail Expansion: Ryan mentions the possibility of Jolie opening its own retail stores in the future, with innovative concepts like high-tech vending machines and small, productive retail spaces. This would enhance brand presence and provide customers with a unique shopping...

23 Juli 202443min

Ken Pilot interviews Sid and Ann Mashburn, Founders of Sid Mashburn and Ann Mashburn, for this episode of The Retail Pilot Podcast.Sid Mashburn grew up in small-town Mississippi but began his design career in New York in the mid-1980s, as J.Crew’s first men’s designer. He designed the brand’s first heritage piece— the Barn Jacket. He was later recruited by Ralph Lauren to join the design team at Polo, and after subsequent stints leading design at Tommy Hilfiger and Lands’ End, it was time to do his own thing. His wife, Ann Mashburn had been on the editorial side of fashion, working in magazines at Condé Nast (Vogue, Glamour) and then as a stylist at J.Crew. Since meeting in their early 20s, they’d known that whether it was making mix tapes or throwing parties, what they really loved wasn’t just creating things, but sharing them with others.SummarySid and Anne Mashburn discuss their journey in building their retail business, which includes six stores and an online presence. They emphasize the importance of creating a unique and personalized shopping experience for their customers, with a focus on customer service and curated merchandise. They also talk about the challenges they faced in launching their business and the decision to expand into online sales. The conversation touches on the significance of the tailor shop in their stores and the success of their made-to-measure business.Ann Mashburn discusses the importance of the experience and memory associated with buying and wearing clothing. She emphasizes the value of made-to-measure clothing and the attention to detail it requires. Ann also talks about the role of marketing in reaching customers and reinforcing the brand. She mentions the use of digital marketing and email campaigns as effective strategies.Ann and Sid Mashburn discuss the challenges and benefits of working together as a married couple. They highlight the importance of trust and the support they provide each other. They also mention their mentors and the inspiration they draw from different designers and places. Ann and Sid share their vision for the future of their business, including expanding to more cities and growing their e-commerce presence. They emphasize the importance of creating special experiences for every customer and maintaining a sense of restraint in their growth. Finally, they discuss the value of personal connections and relationships in their industry.Takeaways·     Creating a unique and personalized shopping experience is key to building a successful retail business.·     Customer service and curated merchandise are important factors in attracting and retaining customers.·     Expanding into online sales can be a significant growth opportunity for brick-and-mortar retailers.·     The tailor shop adds a bespoke element to the store and enhances the overall customer experience.·     The made-to-measure business allows for a deeper level of customer engagement and satisfaction. The experience and memory associated with buying and wearing clothing can be just as important as the clothing itself.·     Made-to-measure clothing offers a personalized and high-quality experience for customers.·     Digital marketing and email campaigns are effective strategies for reaching and engaging customers.·     Working together as a married couple requires trust and support.·     Mentors and relationships with industry professionals can provide valuable advice and guidance.·     Creating special experiences for every customer is a key focus for the business.·     Maintaining a sense of restraint and thoughtful growth is important for long-term success.·     Personal connections and relationships are highly valued in the industry.Chapters00:00...

16 Juli 202455min

Ken Pilot interviews Mindy Grossman, a return guest to The Retail Pilot Podcast.Mindy Grossman is a Partner and Vice Chair at Consello, a financial services advisory and strategic investing platform.Prior to Consello, Mindy joined Weight Watchers in 2017 as the CEO and President leading the repositioning and rebranding of the company to WW Intl. From 2008 to 2017 Mindy took IAC retail public and then became CEO of HSN, a $4B DTC business. Earlier in her career, Mindy had key Leadership roles with Nike, Ralph Lauren, Warnaco, Tommy Hilfiger and and Oxford industries.Mindy has been recognized and awarded numerous times over her career including Forbes Magazine’s The 100 Most Powerful Women, an Advisory role on President Obama’s Digital Economy board as well as serving as chairman of the NRF.Mindy currently is an investor in and on The Board of Directors of Herself Health and Fanatics, Inc., VF, American Heart Association and HungryRoot.SummaryMindy Grossman discusses the diverse services provided by the company and the role her team plays with major companies. She highlights the importance of customization and collaboration in their advisory practices. Mindy also talks about the investments made by Consello Capital in tech-enabled services and consumer retail. She emphasizes the power of storytelling in business and the need for brands to create authentic and engaging experiences for customers. Mindy shares her passion for education and her involvement in various non-profit organizations. She reflects on her favorite moments in her professional career, including starting a business, leading the apparel business at Nike, and her time at HSNI.Takeaways·     Consello provides a diverse range of advisory and investment services to major companies, with a focus on customization and collaboration.·     Investments made by Consello Capital are centered around tech-enabled services and consumer retail.·     Storytelling is a powerful tool in business, allowing brands to create authentic and engaging experiences for customers.·     Mindy Grossman is passionate about education and is involved in various non-profit organizations.·     Her favorite moments in her professional career include starting a business, leading the apparel business at Nike, and her time at HSNI.Chapters00:00Introduction and Overview of Consello Group03:10Customized Advisory and Investment Services09:53Investments in Tech-Enabled Services and Consumer Retail13:07The Power of Storytelling in Business23:57Favorite Moments in Mindy Grossman's Professional CareerHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

9 Juli 202443min

Join Host Ken Pilot for an Exclusive Interview with Steve Madden: The Visionary Behind the Iconic Footwear and Accessories BrandKey Highlights:Steve Madden's Early Career Steve Madden's journey in retail began at a shoe store in Cedarhurst, Long Island. By leveraging his connection as Johnny Madden's little brother, he secured a job that marked the start of his illustrious career in the shoe business.Creative Influence in the Shoe Business During the mid-'70s, Steve worked in an era marked by creative trends, especially in men's footwear like platform shoes. Inspired by the store owner who fancied himself a shoe designer, Steve's passion for the creative side of the shoe business blossomed.Mentorship at Gildor At Gildor, a renowned shoe retailer, Steve found a mentor in Larry, the owner's son. Larry's emphasis on perfect displays and attention to detail profoundly influenced Steve's approach to business.The Influence of Sobriety Steve credits his sobriety as a pivotal factor in his success. Getting sober allowed him to focus and make better business decisions, ultimately driving his achievements.Impact of Jordan Belfort Steve's association with Jordan Belfort, the infamous "Wolf of Wall Street," had mixed consequences. While Jordan's entrepreneurial spirit encouraged Steve, their financial dealings led to legal troubles and Steve's imprisonment. Despite this, Steve acknowledges Jordan's impact on his journey.Appreciation for Teamwork Steve highlights the importance of a strong team, crediting his success to the people around him. His childhood friend, Jamie Carson, played a crucial role as CEO during Steve's absence, protecting the company during challenging times.International Business Steve's brother, John Madden, significantly contributed to the international expansion of Steve Madden. John's charm and relationship-building skills complemented Steve's hands-on business approach. Today, the brand operates in approximately 50 countries, advocating for international trade as a means to foster mutual understanding and peace.The Steve Madden Group The Steve Madden Group owns several notable brands, including Betsey Johnson, Dolce Vita, BB Dakota, Big Buddha, Blondo, and Greats. Steve Madden remains open to further acquisitions, particularly in the apparel sector, with a focus on good management and innovative ideas.Steve Madden: The Man Behind the Brand Steve Madden is an award-winning designer and entrepreneur whose company is valued at over $3 billion. Despite facing significant challenges, including addiction and legal troubles, he has built a global empire through resilience and creativity.In 1990, with just $1,100, Madden launched his brand, anticipating consumer needs and delivering cutting-edge collections. His Queens-based factory quickly transformed his dream into reality, giving birth to the Steve Madden brand.Today, with over 200 stores worldwide, numerous brand acquisitions, and collaborations with stars like Sydney Sweeney, Cardi B, and Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Steve Madden continues to innovate and lead the industry.Steve's humble beginnings and the support he received are never far from his mind. As a recovering addict and someone managing ADD, he actively supports organizations that offer second chances.A native New Yorker, Steve resides in Manhattan with his children and remains deeply involved in his company's operations, from Long Island City headquarters to showrooms and stores worldwide.Don't miss this insightful conversation with Steve Madden, an entrepreneurial icon who turned a small investment into a global powerhouse, inspiring millions with his creativity, resilience, and dedication.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

2 Juli 202439min

Ken Pilot interviews Scott Tannen, Founder and CEO of Boll & Branch on this flight of The Retail Pilot Podcast.Scott Tannen is the CEO and Founder of Boll & Branch, the world’s leading luxury bedding brand, which he founded in 2014 with his wife Missy Tannen. Boll & Branch was one of the earliest direct-to-consumer brands in the soft home world of bed and bath products, and is the first ever 100% organic Fair Trade Certified™ bedding company. Every product, from their sheets to their down pillows, is made sustainably, with a transparent supply chain, and today Boll & Branch is one of the largest e-commerce-first luxury home brands, loved by millions of Americans, including every living US president, and countless celebrities. Scott started his career at Nabisco / Kraft Foods, and was pivotal in the strategic development and modernization of communication efforts for brands including Altoids, Oreo, Planters, Milk-Bone, Life Savers and dozens of others. During his time with the conglomerate, he also oversaw Digital communications and marketing for Kraft Foods entire portfolio of Nabisco Cookies & Crackers, Confections and Snacks brands. He later went on to join Wrigley, establishing the digital division for their global portfolio of brands, including Orbit, 5 Gum, Juicy Fruit, Life Savers, and others. Prior to Co-Founding Boll & Branch, Scott was the Founder & President of Candystand.com, which he launched in 2008 and sold to Publisher’s Clearing House in 2010.Scott’s work has been recognized by the advertising and creative industry with awards including Gold and Bronze Clios, Effies and Cannes Lions. He sits on the advisory boards of several technology and consumer goods companies, and is a Vanderbilt University alum. Scott resides in New Jersey with his wife Missy, their three children, and two dogs.SummaryBoll & Branch is a leading luxury linens and bedding company that focuses on transparency, traceability, and sustainability in its supply chain. The founders, Scott and Missy Tannen, started the company 10 years ago with no background in textiles, which gave them a unique advantage in reimagining how the industry operates. They have built a strong brand that values quality, authenticity, and customer trust. Boll & Branch started with a focus on sheets and bedding but has expanded into other categories like pillows and bath products. They aim to create a complete solution for the bedroom and bathroom. The company has been self-funded and profitable since its early years, allowing them to maintain control and focus on long-term sustainability. They recently raised capital to clean up their cap table and have a strong partnership with Elk Hatton, who invested $100 million in 2019. Boll & Branch has achieved a net revenue of around $200 million and continues to grow. They prioritize customer retention and emotional connection by providing traceability and transparency through their OriginTrack feature. The company is primarily direct-to-consumer but also has retail stores and partnerships with retailers like Nordstrom. Bowen Branch has dedicated spaces in Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's, with specific merchandising and fixturing. Wholesale is a small part of the business, with the majority of sales coming from direct-to-consumer channels. The decision to sell on Amazon is a defensive play to capture customers who search for brands on the platform. Bowen Branch aims to maintain a strong online presence while expanding its retail stores. The company offers bespoke services, such as custom manufacturing and interior design consultations. Marketing efforts focus on word-of-mouth, TV, influencers, social media, and print catalog. Bowen Branch positions itself at a higher price point, offering super...

25 Juni 202450min