

RETHINK RETAIL
RETHINK Retail
RETHINK Retail - the evolution of retail in today’s connected world.
Join us as we explore the most recent trends and innovations in commerce.
Join us as we explore the most recent trends and innovations in commerce.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 1, 2023 • 16min
Doug Zarkin, Fmr. CMO of Pearle Vision
This episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast was recorded live at the Lead Innovation Summit 2023.
In this episode, guest host Simeon Siegel sits down with Doug Zarkin, a marketing expert who has captivated the world of eyewear for over a decade through his previous role as CMO of Pearle Vision.
During his tenure at Pearle, Doug played a pivotal part in transforming the brand by shifting its focus from transactional discounts to building exceptional eye care experiences. His prior ventures took him from the youth and entertainment division of Gray Advertising, to a stint at Avon, and later spearheading the launch of the Victoria's Secret Pink brand nationally.
During their conversation, Zarkin emphasizes the importance of building long-lasting relationships with consumers and positioning brands for long-term success. Zarkin encourages marketers to embrace their own path in marketing and let go of the fear of doing things differently. Instead of focusing on the right way, he advises marketers to focus on what truly matters and tap into the magic of their brands. By leading through listening and uncovering valuable insights, marketers can develop strong, love-based relationships between brands and consumers.
Zarkin also discusses his upcoming book, which explores strategies to strengthen the brand value equation and move brands out of the friend zone.
If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
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Host: Top Retail Influencer Simeon Siegel
Produced by Gabriella Bock
Research by: Maggie Schwenn

Jul 28, 2023 • 51min
Retail Therapy: Walmart - With Ian Scott, Andrea K. Leigh, and Michael Zakkour
Welcome to Retail Therapy, a RETHINK Retail exclusive Podcast series where we examine retailers that have a unique history, are making innovative changes to their business model, or are overcoming challenges in order to stay relevant in this highly competitive landscape.
Join host Ian Scott and RETHINK Retail’s Top Retail Influencers Andrea K. Leigh and Michael Zakkour as they discuss Walmart, a retailer that’s dominated the brick and mortar space for decades and are currently the largest retailer in the US, brining in an annual revenue $572.754B last year.

Jul 26, 2023 • 22min
Barry McGeough, President of Ponto Footwear
In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, guest host Liza Amlani sits down with Barry McGeough, President of Ponto Footwear, live on the show floor at The Lead Innovation Summit 2023.
Barry is a seasoned expert in the field of retail innovation with a remarkable emphasis on digital transformation. Barry's journey into this thriving industry may have been accidental, but his achievements are nothing short of extraordinary.
Starting as a product person in footwear, he ventured into diverse territories, revolutionizing backpacks, goggles, and other innovative wearable devices.
What sets Barry apart is his holistic approach to innovation, which has yielded incredible results. As a visionary, he spearheaded the creation of an Innovation Division within an $11 billion company, ushering in a new dimension to their business.
Barry has mastered the art of straddling the worlds of tech and retail, skillfully leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance consumer experiences like never before.
Listen now to follow Barry's inspiring journey from most unexpected beginnings to the top of the retail innovation game.
If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
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Host: Top Retail Influencer Liza Amlani
Produced by Gabriella Bock
Research by: Maggie Schwenn

Jul 21, 2023 • 23min
Lee Anne Grant, Chief Growth Officer of Babylist
In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, guest host Christine Russo sits down with Lee Anne Grant, Chief Growth Officer of Babylist, live on the show floor at The Lead Innovation Summit 2023.
Together, Russo and Grant dive into Babylist's focus on being an audience company and how it has led to improved customer engagement and increased brand loyalty.
Grant shares valuable insights on how Babylist connects with their audience, both digitally and through their upcoming physical showroom. She emphasizes the importance of creating engaging experiences for users and tracking digital engagement data to inform their product selection strategies.
Grant also discusses Babylist's expansion into the media business, their focus on health and wellness, and the opportunities presented by the changing retail landscape.
If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
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Host: Top Retail Influencer Christine Russo
Produced by Gabriella Bock
Research by: Maggie Schwenn

Jul 10, 2023 • 16min
Chris Gerbig, President of Pink Lily
Join host Julia Hare in this captivating episode of the RETHINK Retail podcast as she takes a dive deep into the inspiring journey of Chris Gerbig, President of Pink Lily, a renowned fashion brand.
In this interview, Chris shares his remarkable story, starting from the humble beginnings of Pink Lily to its meteoric rise as a leading name in the fashion world. He takes us through the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership style.
Discover the secrets behind Pink Lily's success, including the company's customer-centric approach and their ability to adapt to changing market trends.
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Hosted by: Julia Hare

Jul 5, 2023 • 14min
Sean Folkson, Founder & CEO Of Nightfood
In this episode, join RETHINK Retail's Fritz Finlay, as he delves into the captivating journey of Sean Folkson, the visionary behind Night Food, a snack brand that's revolutionizing the way we indulge in midnight cravings.
As a self-proclaimed nighttime snacker himself, Sean experienced firsthand the struggle of finding wholesome snack options that wouldn't disrupt his sleep. Recognizing this unmet need, he set out to create a range of healthier, sleep-friendly snacks that would not only satisfy taste buds but also promote a good night's rest.
Tune in as Sean shares his insights into the challenges faced in establishing a snack brand that challenges the status quo and aims to educate consumers. Discover how Night Food strives to empower individuals with knowledge and offer them a range of better snack options that won't leave them tossing and turning all night.
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Hosted by: Fritz Finlay

Jun 28, 2023 • 12min
Zarina Kanji, Head of Business Development & Marketing for Tmall Global at Alibaba Group UK
In this episode of the RETHINK Retail Podcast, host Paula Macaggi and special guest Zarina Kanji from Alibaba explore how virtual reality has revolutionized luxury retail. Zarina shares her journey into the metaverse, where she discovered immersive shopping experiences and the potential of virtual influencers. Listeners will gain insights into the groundbreaking shift brought by the metaverse, explore Taobao Life's virtual reality, and learn about personalized shopping experiences. The episode also touches on the success of Tmall Luxury Pavilion in China and the future possibilities of the metaverse in Western markets. Get ready to be astonished by the transformative power of virtual reality in shopping.
Are you ready to be crowned hottest retail tech of the year? Sign up to participate in RETHINK Retail's Nxt Gen Technology Program at rethink.industries/nxt-gen-retail-tech or shoot us an email at media@rethink.industries.
If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
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Hosted by: Paula Macaggi

Jun 26, 2023 • 49min
Retail Therapy: John Lewis - with Ian Scott, Jeff Roberts, and Jack Stratten
Welcome to Retail Therapy, a RETHINK Retail exclusive Podcast series where we examine retailers that have a unique history, are making innovative changes to their business model, or are overcoming challenges in order to stay relevant in this highly competitive landscape.
In this episode, host Ian Scott is joined by RETHINK Retail Top Retail Influencers Jeff Roberts and Jack Stratten to discuss John Lewis, an over 100-year-old department store giant that grew tremendously over the 20th century with the addition of new retail formats, brick-and-mortar stores, and product lines.
With the help of an employee-owned cooperative model, this retailer has gained a reputation by doing things differently while always striving to do better for their customers and employees.
This episode of Retail Therapy was brought to you by the Retail Cloud Alliance, Cognizant, and Icertis.
To see how Cognizant and Icertis can help transform your retail business, visit them at cognizant.com/us/en/industries/retail-technology-solutions and icertis.com

Jun 23, 2023 • 19min
Cristina Marinucci, Global Head of Shopper Insights & Analytics at Mondelez
Top Retail Influencer Alex Baker hosts Cristina Marinucci, the Global Head of Shopper Insights & Analytics at Mondelez. Cristina shares a strategy for achieving significant growth and profitability in retail by creating connected and authentic customer experiences. By shifting towards a hybrid approach and prioritizing customer experience and partnerships, businesses can foster individualized experiences and long-term loyalty. This approach leads to increased revenue, customer retention, and overall success in the grocery industry. The episode delves into the power of customer-centricity and partnership.
Cristina's extensive background of experience in the FMCG industry taught her the importance of embracing a hybrid approach, prioritizing customer experience, and fostering strong partnerships. Traditional marketing and sales strategies are no longer sufficient. Cristina advocates for adaptability and innovation, leveraging AI and technology to automate basic tasks and focus on strategy and creativity. Her goal is to drive incremental growth and establish meaningful, lasting connections with shoppers.
Are you ready to be crowned hottest retail tech of the year? Sign up to participate in RETHINK Retail's Nxt Gen Technology Program at rethink.industries/nxt-gen-retail-tech or shoot us an email at media@rethink.industries.
If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
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Hosted by: Top Retail Influencer Alex Baker
Research by: Maggie Schwenn

Jun 19, 2023 • 6min
Cynthia Omokhekpen Asije, Founder of The Adirelounge
Say hello to Cynthia Omokhekpen Asije, an inspiring Nigerian entrepreneur with a heart for the environment and a keen eye for style. As the Founder of The Adirelounge, Cynthia takes sustainability in the fashion world to new heights by using agricultural waste like banana peels to create eco-friendly athleisure and activewear.
Her ingenious concept resonated with environmentally-conscious fashionistas across the globe, leading her to share her sustainable vision in over 40 countries.
Cynthia's dedication to environmentally friendly practices, as well as her unique talent for design, makes her a sought-after thought leader in the world of sustainable fashion.
Join host, Paula Macaggi, as she gets a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Adirelounge's vision and audience as well as uncovering the key to integrating sustainability throughout the fashion retail business.
If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by subscribing to our channel and giving us a 5 star rating us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
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Host: Paula Macaggi