The Retail Pilot

In this engaging conversation, Shai Eisenman, CEO and Founder of Bubble, shares her journey of disrupting the skincare industry. A prodigy in academia and entrepreneurship, she built a community of 4,600 Gen Z advisors before launching her affordable skincare line. Shai discusses the importance of retail partnerships over direct sales and how Bubble's products, priced around $15, maintain prestige-level quality. She emphasizes community engagement and innovative marketing strategies as key to her brand's success and expansion.

In this episode of the Retail Pilot Podcast, Ken Pilot engages with retail legend Mickey Drexler, discussing the current state of retail, pricing trends, and the importance of customer experience. Drexler shares insights from his journey at Alex Mill, emphasizing the significance of quality, team dynamics, and the evolving landscape of retail. The conversation also features Ali Dillon, the President of Alex Mill, Alex Drexler, Founder, and Creative Director, Somsack Sikhounmuong, who discuss their roles and the brand's vision, highlighting the importance of community and innovative marketing strategies. Key Takeaways Include:Recent Success: Alex Mill has experienced strong sales performance attributed to changes in merchandising and management.Product Focus: Sweaters and denim are particularly successful categories for Alex Mill, with emphasis on fit and quality.Retail Strategy: Alex Mill follows a "less is more" approach, focusing on smaller store sizes and selective expansion.Marketing Channels: Instagram is a primary driver of brand awareness, with the company also exploring TikTok marketing.Expansion Plans: Alex Mill is planning to open a new store in Rockefeller Center, aiming for an early November launch.Customer Acquisition: Word-of-mouth marketing plays a crucial role in the brand's growth and recognition.Product Diversity: Mickey emphasizes the importance of offering multiple color options for key items to create visual impact and customer appeal. Sustainability and reworking products can also create new opportunities.Team Dynamics: A strong, diverse team is critical for successful product execution and business operations.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Simeon Siegel, a top retail analyst at BMO Capital Markets, dives into the current retail landscape and the importance of execution in a volatile market. He highlights the stark divide between thriving and struggling sectors post-pandemic. Luxury brands face new pressures, yet some like Prada perform well. Consumers remain resilient despite economic challenges, while technology investments are crucial for success. Siegel also shares insights on evolving retail strategies and the critical adaptation needed for legacy brands to maintain relevance.

Vic Drabicky, founder and CEO of January Digital, and Josh Krepon, President at Steve Madden, dive into the world of performance marketing in retail. They explore the critical balance between algorithm-based and authentic storytelling in branding. The conversation highlights the challenges of content management and the escalating importance of video marketing, particularly with platforms like TikTok. They also discuss how genuine influencer collaborations can foster real connections with consumers, and the growing role of MarTech in loyalty and data management.

In this engaging discussion, Mike Natenshon, founder of Marine Layer, shares his journey from finance to fashion catalyzed by the loss of his favorite shirt. He highlights the evolution of his California-inspired brand, which has become a staple for comfortable clothing. Mike discusses the innovative Respun initiative for upcycling old shirts and balancing retail channels in an evolving market. He also shares insights on the intimate store atmosphere and plans for international expansion, all while maintaining strong customer connections.

A THROWBACK to one of our earlier episodes of The Retail Pilot podcast with Andy Dunn, Founder of Bonobos and Author of Burn Rate.In this compelling episode, Ken sits down with Andy Dunn, a renowned entrepreneur and co-founder of the game-changing men's clothing brand, Bonobos. However, the conversation goes beyond Andy's professional accomplishments, as Andy delves into a deeply personal and significant aspect of his life: his journey with mental health and bipolar disorder and how it lead to crafting his memoir, Burn Rate.Listen as Andy bravely shares his experiences, offering a candid and enlightening perspective on the intersection of entrepreneurship and mental well-being. In a society that often glorifies the hustle and overlooks the challenges entrepreneurs face behind the scenes, Andy's story serves as a reminder that success doesn't always come without its struggles.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this engaging chat with Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, co-founder of Gilt and GLAMSQUAD, listeners dive into her dynamic entrepreneurial journey. She shares the rapid rise of Gilt and the innovative leap into GLAMSQUAD, highlighting lessons from challenges and successes. Alexandra discusses her transition to investing through Clerisy, focusing on consumer needs and unique problem-solving. With a commitment to mentoring female founders, she emphasizes the importance of personal connections and inclusive leadership in shaping successful ventures.

In this engaging discussion, Joe Yakuel, Co-Founder & CEO of brkfst.io, is joined by industry leaders Soumya Sriraman, a veteran CEO in streaming businesses, and Stephen Simonis, a strategic advisor. They delve into how brkfst.io empowers brands to create authentic user-generated content quickly. The conversation covers the challenges of shoppable video content, effective UGC strategies, and the vital role of storytelling in modern marketing. They stress the importance of leveraging diverse content across platforms to elevate customer engagement and conversion.

Tim Parr, CEO and Founder of CADDIS, is on a mission to redefine aging through eyewear. He critiques the eyewear market for neglecting those over 40 and shares personal experiences on embracing age rather than shunning it. Tim discusses the economic power of the 50+ demographic and innovative marketing strategies, including storytelling and in-person engagement. He reflects on his journey from bluegrass musician to entrepreneur, emphasizing authenticity in branding. Plus, he highlights the importance of mentorship in fostering creativity within business.

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.