Richer Retailer - Scaling Retail Stores Past 7 Figures

#023: Grow Your Business with Smart Goal Setting, Team Collaboration, and a Winning Mindset with Cecilia Kautzman

Ever set a big sales goal and thought, “What do I need to do to get there?”
In this powerful, unplanned episode, Cathy sits down with COO & CMO Cecilia Kautzman after an inspiring walk and team retreat, unpacking the mindset shifts and strategic moves required to grow into the business and business owner you want to become.
Forget hustle alone. Discover how stepping into the being of your goal creates the space for the right doing and ultimately the having. Cathy and Cecilia explore how who you are impacts what you do in your business, and why collaboration, self-awareness, and a clear vision are the cornerstones of true business growth.
What You’ll Learn:
Why the Be-Do-Have formula beats hustle every time
The power of team collaboration in business strategy and delegation
How daily habits and self-improvement practices reflect your business potential
Key Takeaways:
[04:30] The Power of Team Collaboration
[09:35] The 'Be, Do, Have' Philosophy
[14:52] Practical Steps to Achieve Goals
Resources Mentioned:
Ready to think like a $5M CEO? Join our free training:Beyond Busy: 3 shifts to reclaim your time and boost store income
Want a support squad like ours? Apply for a game plan call with our team
Learn more about changing your self image from Tonya Leigh - founder of the School of Self Image
Learn more about Tonya Leigh by visiting her YouTube channel.
Your Millie Moment:
Picture your business hitting your dream goal, what would that feel like?
Now ask: what can I do today to feel more of that now?
Take one small step toward delegating something that’s no longer a good use of your time
Set a daily reminder to reconnect with your “future self” mindset
Action Steps:
Subscribe to The Richer Retailer  on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode packed with fabulous insights.
Love this episode? Leave a review and share it with your biz bestie!
Join the conversation! Connect with like-minded store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
You don’t need to wait to feel successful. Start living like the business owner you’re becoming. Step into the mindset, the energy, the habits, and the team collaboration now and watch everything else fall into place.

#022: Tariff-Proof Your Store with Dana Connell

Tariffs are shifting, costs are rising, and retailers are feeling the squeeze—so how do you protect your profits? 
In this episode, Cathy sits down with retail expert and coach Dana to break down exactly how independent store owners can stay ahead of economic uncertainty. From managing supply chain disruptions to adjusting pricing without scaring off customers, you’ll walk away with smart, actionable strategies to keep your business strong and profitable—no matter what the economy throws your way.
What You’ll Learn:
How tariffs affect pricing and supply chains.
The importance of reviewing invoices and tracking costs.
Key pricing strategies to protect profit margins without scaring off customers.
Innovative promotional tactics to boost sales and customer engagement.
Key Takeaways:
[05:36] Navigating Price Changes and Customer Reactions
[10:38] Promotional Strategies and Customer Engagement
[20:54] Vendor Relationships and Inventory Management
Resources Mentioned:
Tune into Episode 7 about The #1 Step to Take to Increase Your Profits and to ensure your initial markup (IMU) supports long-term profitability!
Learn how to scale your retail business with our free training:Beyond Busy: 3 shifts to reclaim your time and boost store income.
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here.
Your Millie Moment:
Spot hidden cost increases – Pull up your latest invoices and compare them to what you expected to pay. Any surprises?
Find your margin killers – Run a quick report in your POS to see if your profit margins have quietly shrunk. Where do you need to adjust?
Strengthen your vendor game – Reach out to at least one vendor this week and ask: What specials, exclusives, or better terms can you offer me? If they aren’t helping your bottom line, it’s time to rethink that relationship.
Fine-tune your pricing strategy – Are your prices keeping up with costs? Take a hard look at 3-5 of your top sellers and make sure you’re not underpricing yourself.
Action Steps:
Subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode packed with fabulous insights.
Love this episode? Leave a review, it helps more retailers find the strategies they need to thrive!
Join the conversation! Connect with like-minded store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Remember, economic shifts are inevitable, but by staying informed and proactive, you can keep your business strong, profitable, and growing. Happy Retailing!

#021: Emails Getting Ignored? Fix Your Email Marketing to Sell More with Nick McHenry

Retail is evolving, but one thing remains constant: the power of connection. In this episode, Cathy sits down with Nick McHenry from OneShop to explore how retail can strengthen customer relationships through email marketing. They debunk the myth that email marketing is outdated, reveal strategies to make emails more engaging and effective, and discuss the role AI in marketing can play in personalization. Nick also shares his personal retail journey and why hiring the right team is a game-changer for business success.
 
What You’ll Learn:
Why email marketing is still one of the most powerful tools for retailers.
The importance of storytelling in retail marketing to enhance customer engagement.
Strategies to increase email open rates and customer engagement.
How AI in marketing can enhance, but not replace, authentic customer communication.
Key Takeaways:
[06:42] Why community-building is crucial in modern retail.
[14:36] How to craft emails that convert and build an emotional connection with customers.
[26:45] The role of AI in retail marketing and its impact on consumer psychology.
Resources Mentioned:
Listen to episode 11 for 5 Ways to Grow Your Email List and turn subscribers into loyal customers!
Connect with Nick: Check out his LinkedIn and website for expert insights on retail marketing
Learn how to scale your retail business with our free training:Beyond Busy: 3 shifts to reclaim your time and boost store income.
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here.
Your Millie Moment:
Audit your email strategy. Are you using storytelling to engage your audience?
Increase your email frequency. Test sending more emails and track engagement.
Try AI tools to enhance, not replace, your personalization efforts.
Action Steps:
Subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode packed with fabulous insights.
Love this episode? Leave a review, it helps more retailers find the strategies they need to thrive!
Join the conversation! Connect with like-minded store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Email marketing is all about building connections that drive real results. Stay consistent, keep refining your strategy, and watch your customer engagement grow. Remember, you have the power to create a profitable, sustainable business that serves your life. Keep going, keep growing, and we’ll see you in the next episode!

#020: Stop DIY Bookkeeping with Kirk Johnson (Kirk Says It's Dry as Dust, But You NEED This)

We joke that this topic is “dry as dust” but in reality it’s like water to your store’s thirsty soil - If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by bookkeeping or tempted to ignore your numbers, this episode is for you! Cathy sits down with Kirk Johnson, RETAILMavens’ Profit First Maven, to discuss why financial health is essential for every retail business. They uncover the hidden costs of messy books, why DIY bookkeeping might be holding you back, and how cleaning up your numbers can transform both your business and your life. You’ll walk away with practical insights on reviewing your profit and loss statements, understanding your balance sheet, and why hiring a bookkeeper is an investment, not an expense.
What You’ll Learn:
The impact of messy financial management on your business and personal stress levels.
How clean books empower you to make strategic, confident decisions.
Why outsourcing bookkeeping will actually make you more money.
Key Takeaways:
[05:17] Real-life stories of retailers who transformed their businesses by getting their numbers in order.
[12:33] Why accidental clearance sales (pricing errors) can destroy your profit and loss margins.
[16:59] The dangers of DIY bookkeeping and why hiring an expert is crucial.
Resources Mentioned:
Did we convince you not to DIY your bookkeeping? Learn more about RETAILMavens monthly bookkeeping services here!
Check out Captain Kirk's QuickBooks Corner for expert bookkeeping tips and insights every month inside our Richer Retailer community on Facebook: Retail Mavens Facebook Group
Learn how to scale your retail business with our free training:Beyond Busy: 3 shifts to reclaim your time and boost store income.
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here.
Your Millie Moment:
Are you ignoring your financial health because you don’t know where to start?
Take one step today, schedule time to review your balance sheet and profit and loss statements, even if it’s just 15 minutes.
If you’re DIY-ing your books, ask yourself: Is this the best use of my time, and what could I be doing instead, that would grow my business?
Action Steps:
Never miss an episode, subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform.
Loved this episode? Leave us a review to help more retailers discover financial management strategies.
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Financial clarity isn’t just about numbers, it’s about creating the freedom, joy, and peace of mind that allow you to live your best life and make the biggest impact possible. You deserve to be a richer retailer in every sense of the word!

#019: How to Stay Motivated in Tough Times with Crystal Vilkaitis

In this episode of Richer Retailer, Cathy Donovan Wagner sits down with Crystal Vilkaitis from Rooted in Retail, to discuss the evolving retail landscape, emphasizing mindset, marketing, and community. Together, they debunk the myth that retail is dying and highlight how independent retailers can thrive through authenticity, consumer behavior insights, and innovative business growth strategies.
Crystal shares her personal journey, offering practical insights on overcoming marketing fears, planning effectively, and leveraging mentorship for success. This episode is packed with encouragement and strategies to help retailers embrace change and grow their businesses while staying connected to their purpose.
What You’ll Learn:
Why retail is far from dead, it’s evolving and thriving!
The power of mindset in retail success.
How networking, conferences, and mentorship can accelerate your business growth. How networking and mentorship can accelerate your growth.
Key Takeaways:
[01:57] Debunking the myth: Retail is evolving, not dying.
[12:20] Using AI to enhance your marketing efforts and understand consumer behavior.
[26:49] Why investing in growth, mentorship, and community support matters.
[32:48] The importance of community in retail success.
Resources Mentioned:
Click here to get your VIP tickets for EVOLVE, or Click here for your standard ticket - Use code Cathy to save $300 for a very limited time!
Check out Crystal’s Rooted In Retail podcast for more retail insights 
Learn how to scale your retail business with our free training: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here
Thinking you might be ready for life after retail? Click here to watch a free training on making this decision
Willpower Doesn't Work - book by Benjamin Hardy and Balance
Join our Richer Retailer community on Facebook: Retail Mavens Facebook Group
Your Millie Moment:
Identify one personal marketing barrier and take the first step to overcome it.
Engage more deeply with your customers, send a personal message or create a meaningful interaction this week.
Reflect on your business mindset: Are you holding yourself back? Shift your focus to what you can control.
Join a retail-focused community for support, insights, and mentorship.
Action Steps:
Never miss an episode, subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform.
Loved this episode? Leave us a review to help more retailers discover effective retail strategies.
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Remember, retail success isn’t about avoiding challenges, it’s about embracing change, staying adaptable, and building a business that supports your life. You’ve got this!

#018: Retail, Politics & Authenticity: How Values and Social Responsibility Build Stronger Brands

In this episode of Richer Retailer, we explore how community values and social responsibility impact retail businesses today. Discover why authenticity in your brand message matters more than ever and how personal stories can foster deeper community engagement. We also discuss the potential risks of customer backlash when businesses take a stand on politics or business ethics and how to navigate these challenges effectively.
What You’ll Learn:
The importance of aligning your retail business with community values to build trust and loyalty.
Why social responsibility and ethical business practices drive long-term success.
The role of personal stories in fostering meaningful community engagement.
Key Takeaways:
[02:34] Why community values should be a key part of your brand strategy.
[13:04] How businesses can engage in social responsibility without alienating customers.
[24:15] Real-life personal stories of retailers who successfully aligned with community engagement.
Resources Mentioned:
Ready to join the Millie Club? If you’re at multiple 6 figures and ready to scale up past 7 figures, watch our free class: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm. 
Cadence’s blog post about their stance on Meta
Connect with Cadence Kidwell from Fuzzy goat: Visit their website, follow on Facebook and also sign up for their emails to stay updated!
Discover more about Janet Avila and String Theory Yarn: Visit their website, follow on Facebook and sign up for their emails to stay updated!
Listen to our episode with Josh Orr on boosting your customers' lifetime value!
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here. 
Follow us on social media for more updates! Facebook / Instagram 
Your Millie Moment:
Reflect on how your business aligns with community values and social responsibility.
Identify ways to incorporate authenticity into your marketing and customer interactions.
Prepare a strategy for addressing customer backlash in a way that maintains brand integrity.
Engage with your community through events, storytelling, and meaningful conversations.
Action Steps:
Never miss an episode, subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform.
Loved this episode? Leave us a review to help more retailers discover effective retail strategies.
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Remember, by staying true to your values and connecting authentically with your community, you’re not just building a business, you’re creating a legacy of trust, loyalty, and impact that will last for generations to come.

#017: Strategy is Safe - Until It's Not

In this episode of Richer Retailer, Cathy Donovan Wagner dives into a common trap many retailers fall into: Getting stuck in strategy mode. While planning is essential, it's easy to get so caught up in perfecting every detail that we forget to take meaningful action. Cathy shares her personal experiences and lessons learned from her coach about moving past perfectionism, focusing on results, and balancing work with fun to keep momentum going. Discover how to shift your mindset, boost productivity, and embrace success in your retail business.
What You’ll Learn:
How to recognize when you’re stuck in strategy mode
The importance of using data over feelings to measure success
How incorporating fun and play can re-energize your focus and productivity
Key Takeaways:
[04:13] Taking Action and Staying Focused.
[06:37] Finding Joy and Dopamine in Action
[10:54] Letting Go of Perfection and Moving Forward
Resources Mentioned:
Ready to join the Millie Club? If you’re at multiple 6 figures and ready to scale up past 7 figures, watch our free class: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm. 
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here. 
Follow us on social media for more updates! Facebook / Instagram 
Your Millie Moment:
What's one area in your business where you're overthinking the strategy? 
What’s one fun activity you can do today to recharge your energy and improve your mindset?
Share this episode with a fellow retailer who needs to hear it!
Action Steps:
Never miss an episode, subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform.
Loved this episode? Leave us a review to help more retailers discover effective retail strategies.
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Let’s make retail fun and profitable and never forget, the world is brighter because of the passion and heart you bring to your business. Keep shining, and happy retailing!

#016: The #1 Tip to Grow Lifetime Customer Value with Josh Orr

In Part 7 of the Top 7 Money Makers in 2025 series, Cathy chats with Josh Orr, founder of Capital Commerce, an agency that helps successful brick-and-mortar retailers translate their in-store traction into thriving online sales. Josh shares his expertise on creating seamless customer engagement experiences that lead to repeat purchases. He reveals the importance of email marketing, a tip to grow lifetime customer value by 30%, and the mindset shifts necessary for growing a profitable, sustainable retail business. This episode is packed with actionable retail strategies to boost customer loyalty and maximize customer value.
What You’ll Learn:
Consistent communication can increase customer loyalty.
Strategic discounts can be used to re-engage customers effectively.
Why adding one additional shopping channel increases customer lifetime value by 30%
Key Takeaways:
[05:05] The Importance of the Second Purchase.
[18:23] Tactics for Increasing Customer Loyalty.
[31:25 ] Creating Meaningful Connections Through Marketing.
Resources Mentioned:
Capital Commerce website 
Retail Initiative Podcast 
Listen to Episode 11 for more tips on growing your email list
Ready to join the Millie Club? If you’re at multiple 6 figures and ready to scale up past 7 figures, watch our free class: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm. 
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here.
Follow us on social media for more updates! Facebook / Instagram 
Your Millie Moment:
Commit to capturing every customer’s email in-store starting this week.
Set up a simple thank-you automation to re-engage them online.
Track how multi-channel engagement increases your repeat sales over the next 30 days.
Share this episode with a fellow retailer who needs to hear it!
Action Steps:
Never miss an episode, subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform.
Loved this episode? Leave us a review to help more retailers discover effective retail strategies.
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Thank you for investing your time and energy into your business by being here. Let’s go make magic happen by building loyal customer relationships and driving sustainable online sales!

#015: Want More Sales On Your Next Live? Master QVC-Style Selling

Are your live sessions getting views but not converting to sales? In part 6 of the Top 7 Money Makers in 2025 series. RETAILMavens founder Cathy Donovan Wagner dives into how QVC-style selling can turn your lives into engaging, revenue-generating events. Learn how to create an emotional connection, leverage the power of storytelling, and use proven techniques to drive urgency and exclusivity. Whether you're just starting with social selling or ready to refine your strategy, this episode will equip you with actionable insights to elevate your business in 2025.
What You’ll Learn:
The magic behind QVC-style selling and why it works.
How to use FABG: Features, Advantages, Benefits, and Grabber Stories.
Top strategies to create emotional connections, urgency, and exclusivity in your live sessions.
Key Takeaways:
[02:30] Why traditional live sessions aren’t enough anymore.
[03:00] The emotional connection: The heart of QVC-style selling.
[12:20] Using FABG to tell stories that captivate and convert viewers into buyers.
Resources Mentioned:
Ready to join the Millie Club? If you’re already at multiple 6 figures and ready to scale up past 7 figures, watch our free class: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm. 
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here.
If you’re not there just yet, watch: How to Increase Your Sales So You Can Consistently Pay Yourself & Your Staff. Together, we'll help you build the profitable, sustainable business you've always dreamed of – one that lets you sleep better at night knowing your retail dreams are becoming reality.
Follow us on social media for more updates! Facebook / Instagram 
Join the community with store owners ready to grow in our Richer Retailer Facebook Group
Your Millie Moment:
Take two products from your inventory and go live using the FABG formula.
Measure your live session's performance: sales, views, and comments.
Challenge yourself to create a "Millie Moment" this week—step outside your comfort zone and aim to connect deeply with your audience.
Share your experience with us in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group!
Action Steps:
Never miss an episode, subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform.
Loved this episode? Leave us a review to help more retailers find us.
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
You are astonishingly fabulous! Remember, your next million-dollar breakthrough could be just one live session away. Happy Retailing!

#014: Building a Team That “Gets” Your Vision

In Part 5 of the Top 7 Money Makers in 2025 series, RETAILMavens founder Cathy explores the transformative power of building a team that aligns with your vision. She is joined by Holly Floyd, a former retailer who successfully sold her business after 20 years. Holly shares how empowering her team and creating a shared vision turned her store into a thriving, collaborative space. Whether you're just starting to build a team or looking to deepen your team's alignment with your goals, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
What You’ll Learn:
The importance of sharing your vision with your team.
How delegation and empowerment create a more collaborative workplace.
Why focusing on your strengths allows you to lead effectively.
Key Takeaways:
[03:10] Holly’s journey: Running a yarn store for 20 years and transitioning to retirement.
[06:00] The game-changing impact of regular team meetings.
[07:15] Delegating tasks to team members based on their strengths.
Resources Mentioned:
Ready to join the Millie Club? If you’re already at multiple 6 figures and ready to scale up past 7 figures, watch our free class: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm. 
If you’re not there just yet, watch: How to Increase Your Sales So You Can Consistently Pay Yourself & Your Staff. Together, we'll help you build the profitable, sustainable business you've always dreamed of – one that lets you sleep better at night knowing your retail dreams are becoming reality.
Thinking about Life After Retail? Check out this free class to help you decide when it's the right time.
Follow us on social media for more updates! Facebook / Instagram 
Join the community with ambitious store owners in our Richer Retailer Facebook Group
Your Millie Moment:
Take time to write down your store’s vision, what do you stand for? Share it with your team.
Identify tasks that can be delegated to team members and assign them based on their strengths.
Schedule regular team meetings to foster communication and collaboration.
Share this episode with a fellow store owner who could benefit from team-building insights.
Action Steps:
Never miss an episode, subscribe to The Richer Retailer on your favorite podcast platform.
Loved this episode? Leave us a 5-star review to help more retailers find us.
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Together, let’s create teams that not only share your vision but inspire you every day to make that vision a reality.