Richer Retailer - Scaling Retail Stores Past 7 Figures

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

If your books are a mess, your business is bleeding money and you might not even know it yet. 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 your store’s money management systems are the hidden engine behind your success. They dig into the high cost of messy books, the dangers of DIY accounting, and how cleaning up your business finances can transform not just your store but your life. This episode is all about clearing the fog and giving you practical steps to protect your profit margin and your peace of mind.
What You’ll Learn:
The impact of messy financial management on your profit margin and stress levels
How clean books empower better decision-making in your small business
Why outsourced bookkeeping can actually make you more money
How to read a balance sheet and make sense of your cash flow
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: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm.
Already know you’d like to partner with RETAILMavens? Apply for a game plan call here.
Your Millie Moment:
Schedule 15 minutes to review your balance sheet and profit and loss statement
Ask yourself if DIY bookkeeping is really the best use of your time
Consider how your financial health affects your freedom, stress, and ability to grow
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Bottom line? Numbers aren’t just numbers, they’re your future. Understanding your books is the first step to protecting your profit margin, strengthening your cash flow, and finally feeling in control of your small business again.

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

Think retail is dying? Think again. This episode will completely shift your perspective on what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-changing retail world, no doom and gloom, just real strategies, fresh insights, and powerful mindset shifts.
In this episode of Richer Retailer, Cathy Donovan Wagner sits down with Crystal Vilkaitis from Rooted in Retail to discuss the evolving retail landscape. They dive deep into the heart of retail marketing, community building, and the role of business mentorship in driving modern retail success.
What You’ll Learn:
Why retail is far from dead, it’s evolving and thriving
The role of mindset in unlocking your success
How AI and consumer behavior insights are reshaping retail marketing
Why mentorship and community are critical for long-term growth
How to improve your customer experience and create loyalty through connection
Key Takeaways:
[01:57] Debunking the myth: Retail is evolving, not dying
[12:20] Using AI to enhance marketing efforts and understand consumer behavior
[26:49] Investing in growth, mentorship, and community support
[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 - a 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.
Deepen your customer relationships send a personal message or create a meaningful interaction.
Reflect on your business mindset: Are you holding yourself back?
Join a retail-focused community for ongoing support and accountability.
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Real retail success isn’t about avoiding change, it’s about embracing it, leading with clarity, and building a business that supports the life you want. You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back.

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

How can embracing community values and ethical branding set your retail business apart? 
We explore how community values and ethical branding impact retail businesses in today’s episode with Cadence Kidwell from Fuzzy goat and Janet Avila and String Theory Yarn, a back-to-back guest. Discover why authenticity in your brand message matters more than ever and how personal stories can foster deeper customer loyalty. We also discuss the potential risks of customer backlash when businesses take a stand on ethics or social issues 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 ethics and social responsibility drive long-term success.
The role of personal storytelling in strengthening branding and customer engagement.
Key Takeaways:
[02:34] Why community engagement should be a key part of your business strategy.
[13:04] How businesses can practice ethical marketing without alienating customers.
[24:15] Real-life personal stories of retailers who successfully aligned with values-driven branding.
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 values align with community engagement and ethics.
Identify ways to incorporate authenticity into your branding and customer interactions.
Prepare a strategy for handling marketing challenges and customer concerns.
Engage with your community through events, storytelling, and meaningful conversations.
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
By staying true to your values and fostering real community connections, you’re not just growing a business—you're creating a branding legacy built on authenticity, loyalty, and trust.

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

Are you constantly planning but struggling to take action? 
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 business growth journey.
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!
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.
Let’s make retail fun and profitable—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

What if you could increase your customer’s lifetime value by 30% with just one simple shift?
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 e-commerce 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 marketing and sales strategies to boost customer loyalty and drive business growth.
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 of Josh Orr
Retail Initiative Podcast
Listen to Episode 11 for more tips on growing your email list
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.
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.
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
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 e-commerce growth!

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

Are your live sessions attracting viewers but falling short when it comes to driving sales?
In part 5 of the Top 7 Money Makers in 2025 series, RETAILMavens founder Cathy Donovan Wagner reveals how QVC-style selling can turn your live videos into powerful, revenue-generating events. By integrating personalization, automation, and emotional storytelling, you’ll learn to captivate your audience and drive real results. Whether you're new to social selling or looking to optimize your strategy, this episode is packed with proven tactics to enhance engagement, boost conversion, and strengthen loyalty in your customer relationships.
What You’ll Learn:
Omnichannel Success: Why QVC-style selling works across multiple channels.
The FABG Formula: How to leverage segmentation, storytelling, and emotional connections to maximize conversion.
Proven strategies to build retention, foster loyalty, and create urgency in your live sessions.
Key Takeaways:
[02:30] Why traditional live sessions aren’t cutting it anymore – and how innovation can set you apart.
[03:00] The heart of QVC-style selling: Emotional connection and authentic storytelling.
[12:20] Using the FABG formula (Features, Advantages, Benefits, and Grabber Stories) to increase sales and customer engagement.
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:
Select two products from your inventory and go live using the FABG formula to create excitement and boost engagement.
Measure your live session’s performance: Track key metrics like sales, views, and comments.
Challenge yourself to create a "Millie Moment" by stepping outside your comfort zone and connecting deeply with your audience.
Share your experience in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group!
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
Remember, your next million-dollar breakthrough could be just one well-executed live session away. With the right optimization, strategy, and mindset, your audience will stick around, engage deeply, and keep coming back for more. Happy Retailing!

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

How do you build a team that shares your vision and drives your business forward? 
In Part 5 of the Top 7 Money Makers in 2025 series, RETAILMavens founder Cathy explores the transformative power of effective teamwork and leadership. She’s joined by Holly Floyd, a former retailer who successfully sold her business after 20 years. Holly shares how empowering her team, focusing on alignment, and fostering collaboration helped turn her store into a thriving, innovative space. Whether you’re just starting to build a team or looking to take your existing one to the next level, this episode is packed with insights to boost your team’s motivation, productivity, and growth.
What You’ll Learn:
Vision and Team Alignment: Why sharing your vision with your team is critical for success.
The Power of Delegation: How assigning tasks based on strengths creates a more collaborative and innovative workplace.
Effective Leadership Strategies: How regular meetings and clear communication enhance motivation and alignment with your goals.
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] The importance of delegation and leveraging your team’s 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.
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 to boost alignment.
Identify tasks that can be delegated to team members based on their strengths.
Schedule regular team meetings to foster collaboration and open communication.
Share this episode with a fellow store owner who could benefit from team-building insights.
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
Building a team that shares your vision is a game-changer. With the right strategy, motivation, and leadership, you can create a team that inspires you every day to make your retail dreams a reality!

#013: How to Stay Ahead of Retail Cash Flow Challenges: 2 Strategies for Success

Is cash flow keeping you up at night?
This is the fourth episode in our Top 7 Money Makers to Focus on in 2025 series, and we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood aspects of retail success: cashflow. Cathy shares practical, tactical strategies to help retailers plan for expenses, build reserves, and stay ahead of cash flow challenges. With the right budgeting and forecasting tools, you can reduce financial stress, improve profit, and create a business with stronger margins and long-term growth.
What You’ll Learn:
Why Cash Flow Matters: Discover why positive cashflow is more important than profit in retail.
Understanding Your Cash Flow Cycle: Learn how to project future needs and prevent surprises.
Tactical Financial Strategies: Build savings, reduce cash flow stress, and explore creative ways to boost revenue during slow months.
Key Takeaways:
[05:43] The importance of forecasting cash flow projections to avoid financial surprises.
[07:24] Tactical strategies like setting aside 2% of daily sales, negotiating vendor terms, and creating a sales tax account.
[19:48] A Millie Moment from our own host – Cathy Danovan Wagner.
Resources and Links:
Episode #8: The Hidden Costs of Inventory Hoarding – Maximize inventory turnover and improve your liquidity.
Episode #7: The #1 Step to Take to Increase Your Profits – Learn how raising your initial markup can improve your cash flow.
Relay Bank: A great option for setting up separate bank accounts for savings or sales tax.
Already at multiple 6 figures and ready to scale past 7 figures? Watch our free class: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm.
Not quite there yet? Watch: How to Increase Your Sales So You Can Consistently Pay Yourself & Your Staff.
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:
Identify two or three months where your cash flow is most strained.
Create a cashflow projection to better understand your cycle.
Start setting aside 2% of your daily sales to build a reserve.
Explore one creative income stream idea for your slower months.
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
With the right strategies and a proactive mindset, you can take control of your finance, build financial stability, and create a business that truly supports your dreams. You have the power to make it happen because you deserve to be a richer retailer!

#012: Surprising Inventory Insights from a Multi-Million Dollar Retailer

Can scaling back actually help you grow?
In this heartwarming third episode in our Top 7 Money Makers to Focus on in 2025 series we sit down with Alana Turner, the passionate owner of Poopsies in Galena, Illinois, to explore how she boosted sales and improved customer engagement by curating her inventory and focusing on quality over quantity. Alana shares her inspiring journey, showing that successful retail isn’t just about increasing liquidity or volume, it’s about building a store that tells a story, deepens connections, and brings joy to your subscribers.
What You’ll Learn:
Poopsies’ Journey: How a college job led to the creation of a beloved store.
Curating Inventory: Why scaling back can improve sales, email marketing, and customer satisfaction.
Building a Value-Driven Brand: How aligning your marketing strategy with your values can lead to long-term growth.
Key Takeaways:
[02:00] Alana’s retail origin story and how a college job led to her owning Poopsies.
[18:00] The impact of scaling back inventory and focusing on quality over quantity.
[28:40] Alana’s “Millie Moment,” reflecting on the store’s impact, growth, and customer loyalty.
Resources and Links:
Follow and visit Poopsies on social media: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
Poopsies website: poopsies.com
Already at multiple 6 figures and ready to scale past 7 figures? Watch our free class: 3 Steps to Maximize Profit & Reduce Overwhelm.
Not quite there yet? Watch: How to Increase Your Sales So You Can Consistently Pay Yourself & Your Staff.
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:
Could scaling back inventory and focusing on lead magnets and customer experience boost your sales?
Think about how storytelling can enhance your product presentation and drive more email automation opportunities.
Visit Poopsies online to see how they’ve integrated their values into their store and brand.
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Inspired by this episode? Leave us a 5-star review to help more retailers find us!
Remember, growth doesn’t always mean bigger sometimes, it’s about getting more intentional and staying true to what truly matters. You’re on your own unique path, and every step forward is a victory. Keep believing in your vision, and let your story shine brightly!

#011: 5 Ways to Grow Your Email List

How do you turn email marketing into your top sales driver in 2025? It all starts with growing your list!
This is Part 2 of our "Top 7 Money Makers in 2025" series and one of the most impactful strategies you can implement this year. With predictive analytics and AI content creation making waves, email marketing remains one of the most profitable tools for reaching customers but success depends on having a strong, steadily growing list. Whether you’re starting from scratch or optimizing your existing strategy, you’ll walk away with actionable tactics to attract new, excited customers while boosting your conversion rates and customer retention.
What You’ll Learn:
Track Your Progress: You can’t improve what you don’t measure – leverage automation workflows to stay on track.
Offer a Fabulous Lead Magnet: People won’t join your list without a compelling reason!
Top 5 Tactics to Grow Your Email List: From AI-powered drip campaigns to reimagining loyalty programs.
Key Takeaways:
[01:20] Why Growing Your Email List Matters
[02:40] The Power of Tracking Your List
[05:00] The 5 Tactics – Loyalty Programs Reimagined
Resources and Links:
Click Here to explore retail friendly lead magnet ideas
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.
Follow us on social media for more updates! Facebook / Instagram 
Join the community with ambitious store owners in our Richer Retailer Facebook Group
Have questions? Reach out via email!
Your Millie Moment:
Choose one of the five tactics shared in this episode.
Set a start date and a 30-day check-in to evaluate your progress.
Adjust, improve, or switch tactics as needed to keep growing.
Share this episode with a fellow store owner who needs to hear it!
Thank you for investing your time and energy into your business by being here. Let’s go make magic happen starting with your email list!