Richer Retailer - Scaling Retail Stores Past 7 Figures

#027: Sales Feel Weird? You’re Not Alone (and Not Stuck) | State of Retail – May 2025

What’s really happening in independent retail right now? 
We’re kicking off a brand-new monthly State of Retail episode to help you clear through the noise, get grounded in the data, and take purposeful action based on current retail trends.
In this May episode, Cathy Donovan Wagner shares the latest shifts she’s seeing across the industry, everything from slowing traffic to changing customer behavior and customer sentiment and what it all means for your store. Don’t miss the Millie Moment, designed to help you take action and lead with clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re feeling steady, slow, or stuck on a retail rollercoaster, this is for you!
What You’ll Learn:
What’s shifting in independent retail this month of May.
Many retailers are experiencing a slowdown in traffic post-Easter.
How to avoid panic discounts and instead promote slow-moving inventory creatively.
Why experimenting with sales strategies and customer engagement is key right now.
Key Takeaways:
[03:30] Why a “trust recession” is influencing customer behavior and impacting customer sentiment.
[04:33] The Millie Move: Educate before you activate.
[06:42] Activating your “pinkies” and of course your “thumbs” . Cathy’s signature metaphor for getting intentional with customer engagement.
[09:32] QuickBooks tip: Save time with Bill Pay!.
Resources Mentioned:
If you're serious about growth—and you're not interested in spinning your wheels—I invite you to book a call with one of our Maven experts. This isn't a casual Q&A. It's a qualifying conversation for retailers who want a proven coach in their corner and are ready to make smart, strategic moves toward more profit, more clarity, and more freedom.Ready to stop guessing and start growing? Apply for a strategy call to see if coaching is your next right move.
Check out Captain Kirk's QuickBooks Corner for expert bookkeeping tips and insights every month inside our Richer Retailer community.
Your Millie Moment: Educate before you activate.
Look at what’s flying out the door, your top items by quantity.
Then, check what’s dead on the floor—items that haven’t moved in 4–6 weeks.
Give your customers a clear reason to buy both now.
Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Retail is shifting, but one smart step at a time, you’ve got this. See you next month for the June State of Retail!

#026: Health, Wealth & Happiness: The 3 Pillars of a Richer Retailer with Pat Mussieux

What if the only way forward... was to walk away?
In this powerful episode, Cathy sits down with internationally acclaimed speaker and award-winning business coach Pat Mussieux, who shares the boldest transformation of her life  and the mindset that made it possible. Through raw, real conversation, Cathy and Pat unpack what it really takes to be “richer”,  not just in dollars, but in health, wealth, and happiness. This episode is a masterclass in personal growth, intentional living, and building success that actually feels good.
What You’ll Learn:
Why health is wealth — and the foundation of all sustainable success
What a “Me First” philosophy really looks like (and why it’s not selfish)
How to identify when your life is contaminating your dreams
Why self-belief is the ultimate business strategy
Key Takeaways:
[07:20] Pat’s 3 circles of influence and how they create happiness
[11:00] Daily success rituals that protect your energy and purpose
[31:00] Your Millie Moment: Building a life that supports your richest self
Resources Mentioned:
The Power of Focus by Jack Canfield & Mark Victor Hansen
Pat Mussieux LinkedIn account and website.
 by Pat Mussieux
Learn how to scale your retail business with our free training: .
 Apply for one-on-one or group coaching to get the clarity, focus, and accountability you need.
Millie Moment:
Are you living your richest life or just running your store?
Take 15 minutes to journal: What are your real riches right now and what’s missing?
Reflect: Is what you’re doing contributing to your best life… or contaminating 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.
Reminding you that it’s never too late to choose joy, build resilience, and become the richest version of yourself. You’ve got this.

#025: Retail Trade Shows: h+h - Crafting, Education and Community with Darrin Stern

Tired of the same old sourcing strategies?
Ready to shake up your retail strategy and discover fresh opportunities? This week, Cathy sits down with Darrin Stern from H&H Americas to explore the power of trade shows for independent retailers. They dive into how these events can help you uncover new products, connect with a thriving community, and gain invaluable insights to evolve your business.
What You'll Learn:
How trade shows help retailers discover emerging trends and innovative products.
Why trade shows are valuable for networking with other retailers, suppliers, and industry experts.
The unique offerings of H&H Americas, with its focus on a diverse range of fiber and fabric products.
The importance of investing in your business through events like trade shows.
Key Takeaways:
[01:22] Darrin Stern's Journey to H & H Americas
[12:03] What Sets H & H Apart from Other Trade Shows
[19:08] Investing in Retail and Community
[26:53] Darrin's Millie Moment and Community Impact
Resources Mentioned:
H&H Americas website
Learn how to scale your retail business with our free training: .
Ready to Work with Us? Apply for one-on-one or group coaching to get the clarity, focus, and accountability you need.
Millie Moment:
Take action this week to explore how trade shows can benefit your store:
Identify Your Sourcing Needs: Make a list of product categories you want to expand or refresh in your store.
Research Relevant Shows: Find 2-3 trade shows that align with those categories and note their dates and locations.
Set Clear Objectives: Define 2-3 specific goals for attending a trade show (e.g., find 5 new vendors, learn 3 new merchandising techniques).
Don't miss Cathy’s 10@10 Tuesdays - Every Tuesday at 10AM CT where she answers your burning questions 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, you're part of a community of fellow retailers, and we're all in this together, supporting each other's success.

#024: The #1 Reason Stores Fail (And How to Make Sure Yours Doesn’t)

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the business side of retail, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode Cathy answers a heartfelt question from Ali, a store owner who’s been pouring her passion into her business but is struggling with financial management, taxes, and tracking expenses. Sound familiar? Cathy breaks down the two most powerful actions retailers can take to stop spinning their wheels: Outsourcing and getting a coach.
What You’ll Learn:
You don’t need an MBA, but you do need a basic understanding of cashflow, inventory management, and profitability to grow your business.
Outsourcing bookkeeping and financial tasks can help you stay in your zone of genius—where your true strengths shine.
Why the most successful retailers focus on business education and mindset growth to level up their stores.
How business coaching provides the accountability, clarity, and direction you need to scale your store and create a legacy.
Key Takeaways:
[02:11] Ali’s question: “I’m great at selling, but what about the business side?”
[03:20] The importance of knowing what you don’t know
[03:50] Cathy breaks down the two most powerful actions retailers can take
[6:10] Cathy reveals the #1 reason stores fail
Resources Mentioned:
Join the Richer Retailer Facebook Group: Don't miss Cathy’s 10@10 Tuesdays - Every Tuesday at 10AM CT where she answers your burning questions! Connect with other like-minded retailers who want to grow their businesses and create lasting success.
Free Training: Want to learn more about how we help retailers grow and thrive? Check out our free training on the RETAILMavens method. 
Ready to Work with Us? Apply for one-on-one or group coaching to get the clarity, focus, and accountability you need.
Millie Moment:
Step back to see the big picture: You can’t grow if you’re stuck in the daily grind. Get outside perspective.
Outsource what drains you: Focus on your strengths and let experts handle tasks like bookkeeping and taxes.
Invest in guidance: A coach can help you avoid costly mistakes, stay accountable, and fast-track your growth.
Take action now: Don’t wait to get the support you need. Success comes from knowing what you don’t know—and doing something about 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.
You’re not expected to know everything, but you are expected to get the help you need. Whether it’s outsourcing, business coaching, or tapping into your retail community, there’s always a path forward. Don’t let what you don’t know hold you back.

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

Ever set a big business goal and thought, “What do I need to do to get there?
In this powerful, unplanned episode, Cathy sits down with RETAILMavens COO & CMO Cecilia Kautzman after an inspiring walk and team retreat to unpack the mindset shifts, self-awareness, and strategic growth moves required to grow into the business and the business owner you want to become.
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 self-improvement practices reflect your potential
Why self-awareness and growth mindset are your most valuable business tools
Key Takeaways:
[04:30] The Power of Team Collaboration
[09:35] The 'Be, Do, Have' Philosophy
[14:52] Practical Steps to Achieve Your Business 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.
 Your Millie Moment:
Picture your business hitting your dream goal, what would that feel like?
Now ask: what can you do today to feel more of that now? (Hint: it starts with personal growth)
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 and strengthen your high performance habits
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.
You don’t need to wait to feel successful. Start living like the business owner you’re becoming. Step into the growth 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?
Cathy sits down with retail expert and coach Dana to tackle the challenges of cost management in today’s unpredictable economy. From supply chain disruptions to navigating price adjustments that don’t scare off your customers, this episode is packed with smart, actionable strategies to help independent store owners stay profitable no matter how much the inflation impact shakes things up.
What You’ll Learn:
How tariffs impact retail pricing and supply chain costs
The importance of reviewing invoices and tracking expenses for better financial planning
Key pricing strategies to protect your margins without losing loyal customers
Innovative sales strategies and promotions to boost engagement and customer retention
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: 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:
Spot hidden cost increases – Pull up recent invoices and compare them to expected amounts. Are you seeing signs of rising costs?
Find your margin killers – Run a quick POS report to catch quietly shrinking profit margins.
Strengthen your vendor game – Talk to vendors about better terms to support your bottom line.
Fine-tune your pricing strategy – Review your top sellers to ensure your retail pricing reflects today’s costs.
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.
Economic shifts are inevitable but with proactive planning, strong pricing strategies, and a pulse on your numbers, your business can stay 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 customer connection.In this episode, Cathy sits down with Nick McHenry from OneShop to explore how retailers can strengthen relationships through email marketing, a tool that’s far from outdated.
They break down why personalized emails are more relevant than ever, how to boost open rates, and why email automation can be a game-changer for both small and growing retail businesses. Plus, they dive into the rising impact of AI marketing and how it can enhance but not replace the human side of retail communication.
What You’ll Learn:
Why email marketing is still one of the most powerful tools for retailers
The role of storytelling in boosting customer engagement
How email automation improves efficiency and drives results
The importance of personalized emails in creating customer loyalty
How AI marketing can enhance personalization without losing authenticity
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: 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:
Audit your email strategy are your emails truly personalized and engaging?
Test increasing your send frequency, and monitor open rates and customer engagement.
Try out AI tools to streamline email automation without losing the personal touch.
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.
Email marketing isn’t just alive, it’s thriving. With the right tools, mindset, and strategies, you can build powerful, lasting customer connections that drive growth. Stay consistent, lead with heart, and turn your inbox into your most effective business asset.

#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.