Embracing Human Pride: Navigating Leadership & Technology in a Changing World
Retailrazor Substack
May 16, 2025
In the ever-evolving landscape of work, both leadership and technology are reshaping how we interact, lead, and find meaning. For episode 3 in season 5 of The Retail Razor Show, we welcomed back a long-time friend of the show, industry legend, Ron Thurston, to shine a light on these dynamics.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Marketing
Unveiling the New Playbook for Digital Marketing & Gen Z: Learnings from AliExpress
Substack
April 25, 2025
Welcome to the Retail Razor Show's latest exploration into the dynamic world of digital marketing. This issue delves into the insightful conversation from the second episode of Season Five, where your podcast hosts, Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden, engage with Christopher Carl, the US Head of Marketing for AliExpress (Alibaba Group), to discuss their groundbreaking strategies targeting Gen Z consumers and the evolution of e-commerce marketplaces.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Top Takeaways From the NRF 2025 Big Show!
Linkedln
January 29, 2025
The National Retail Federation Big Show did not disappoint this year as the retail industry descended on New York City in our annual pilgrimage to the Big Show! Each year feels as if the days get longer and the number of days with activity grow and grow, beginning on Friday and running past the expo days all the way to Wednesday.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Here are 3 Analyses Templates in a 30-Slide Deck for Building a Consultative Framework
Linkedln
June 29, 2020
I’m often asked for advice from my network at tech companies and consulting firms on structuring a presentation framework both from a structural flow as well as a visual style to analyze business challenges.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
2019 NRF Takeaways and Retail Predictions (Part 3): Customer Experience and Personalization Reign Supreme
Linkedln
February 28, 2019
I wasn’t kidding when I said there’s a lot that caught my attention at #NRF2019! Part 1 and Part 2 of this series tackled five key takeaways from NRF, and retail predictions for 2019. Here’s five more to wrap your head around.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
2019 NRF Takeaways and Retail Predictions (Part 2): Where Fantasy Finally Meets Reality!
Linkedln
February 27, 2019
The days of chasing "shiny object" technologies is over. No, it doesn't mean retailers will stop innovating and stop looking for new technology. Technology must now transparently elevate, while simplifying, the shopping experience overall. In Part 1, I gave 2 of my predictions/takeaways and a bonus comment, so let's continue with more of my observations and predictions.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Empowering Women in Retail Tech: New Era of Leadership
Retail Razor
July 03, 2025
In this exciting episode of The Retail Razor Show, we welcome the dynamic Shannon Flanagan to discuss her captivating journey in retail, technology, and empowering women in retail tech. Shannon shares her inspiring career path from working in the junior department at Famous Bar to becoming a consultant, a tech general manager, and now founding the Retail Women in Tech organization and a non-profit. She highlights the challenges and changes she’s witnessed, her passion for retail, and the importance of adaptability and innovation in the industry. Shannon also emphasizes the critical role of women in AI and the necessity of gender diversity for the future of technology. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in retail tech, leadership, allyship, and the empowering work of Retail Women in Tech (RWIT).
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Beyond the Buzz: Spotlighting Real Retail Change Makers
Retail Razor
June 16, 2025
The Retail Razor: Retail Transformers is your insider’s guide to the visionaries shaping the future of retail! Hosted by Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden, this podcast goes beyond the headlines to spotlight the people driving real transformation in retail. Tune in to hear from change makers, innovators, and disruptors reshaping the industry. This series delves into personal stories, bold leaders, cutting-edge technology, and fresh strategies, with insights on AI-driven personalization, immersive commerce, and more.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
The New Playbook for Digital Marketing
Retail Razor
April 24, 2025
Welcome to the second episode of Season 5 of the Retail Razor Show! Join hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden as they dive into the fresh tactics and cutting-edge strategies that are driving the future of retail and e-commerce with Gen Z. In this episode, they are joined by Chris Carl, the US Head of Marketing for AliExpress, to discuss 'The New Playbook for Digital Marketing.' Discover how AliExpress is capturing Gen Z's attention, building a robust social media presence, leveraging influencers like David Beckham, and exploring the future of cross-border shopping with a full-funnel marketing strategy. Chris shares the impressive growth metrics (500% increase in social media following, for example) and innovative campaigns that have set AliExpress apart - think social commerce, live shopping, Gen AI, and TikTok Shops. Plus new enticing innovations in logistics to help onboard more US-based sellers to the AliExpress marketplace. Whether you're a product junkie, retail leader, or commerce technologist, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Transforming Retail Media into a Growth Engine
Retail Razor
April 10, 2025
Welcome to Season 5 of the Retail Razor Show! In our premiere episode, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden dive deep into retail media with special guest Drew Cashmore, Chief Strategy Officer at Vantage, and a pioneer in the retail media space, with a background scaling Walmart Connect to a $2 billion business. Drew shares his insights on the evolution of retail media, the driving forces behind its rapid growth, and the challenges retailers face in scaling their media networks. Drew also discusses the importance of workflow automation, the use of first-party data, and the balance between digital and in-store media. We highlight the necessity for retailers to invest in their media capabilities to stay competitive and speculate on the future direction of retail media. We also touch on the complexities of managing multiple media platforms and the potential for consolidation within the industry.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Retail Insights Unveiled: Maximizing Store Team Potential
Retail Razor
March 13, 2025
In this episode of Retail Razor: Data Blades, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden are joined by Georgina Nelson, CEO of TruRating, to discuss the substantial impact well-informed store teams have on retail sales. Georgina shares insights from a global sporting goods retailer where informed staff led to a 27% increase in shopper spend. The discussion covers the importance of personalized shopping experiences, effective sales and product training, and how real-time consumer insights can drive higher customer satisfaction and repeat visits. Don't miss out on learning how data-driven strategies can transform retail outcomes. Subscribe for more actionable retail insights!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Retail Revolution: AI, Media, and Human Connection - Season 5 Trailer
Retail Razor
March 12, 2025
Join hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden in Season Five of The Retail Razor Show as they explore the intersection of AI, media, and human connection in retail. This season will examine the power of AI-powered personalization, retail media evolution, and the role of in-store associates in enhancing customer experiences. Key discussions will include how AI makes retailers more resilient, the impact of media on commerce, and the next wave of retail tech innovation. Tune in to understand how technology transforms shopping, selling, and scaling while emphasizing that retail's core is human connection. Subscribe and follow for sharp insights and expert opinions so you don't miss out on unlocking new opportunities in retail!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Shaping the Checkout Experience: The Power of Consumer Perception
Retail Razor
March 10, 2025
In this episode of Retail Razor Data Blades, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden are joined by Georgina Nelson, CEO of TruRating, to delve into real-world consumer insights at the point of sale. Georgina shares a study involving over 14,000 customers across the US, UK, and Australia. Key points include how the number of items in a basket affects checkout choice and the crucial role of offering both self-checkout and manned till options to maintain transaction levels. Discover the importance of understanding shopper behavior in real-time to enhance customer experiences and make informed technology decisions. Tune in to learn more about optimizing the retail checkout process based on data-driven insights.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Fast Lanes and Price Checks: Navigating Self-Checkout
Retail Razor
March 06, 2025
Discover why 65% of shoppers prefer self checkout for its speed, the challenges faced, and how retailers can improve this point of service. Don't miss the in-depth discussion and actionable insights for retailers to enhance customer experience!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Aligning with Values: Key Strategies for Retail Success
Retail Razor
March 03, 2025
Welcome to the Retail Razor Show, 'Data Blades'! In this episode, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden are joined by Georgina Nelson*, CEO of *TruRating. They examine consumer loyalty and how aligning retailer values with customer values plays a critical role, even amidst inflation. TruRating's insights reveal that 77% of consumers prioritize retailer values over discounts. Learn effective strategies to communicate these values and enhance customer loyalty. Don't miss out on cutting-edge retail insights. Subscribe for more episodes! v
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Navigating the Price Surge: Shifting Shopping Habits
Retail Razor
February 27, 2025
Welcome to another Retail Razor: Data Blades episode, where we discuss how rising prices are affecting shopper behavior with Georgina Nelson*, CEO of *TruRating*. Georgina shares data showing significant changes: 63% of U.S. consumers are driving less due to high gas prices, 60% are cooking more at home, and 74% are using shopping lists — reflecting increased spending discipline. We also explore how retailers can turn these challenges into opportunities by enhancing customer experience and building loyalty. Hosted by *Ricardo Belmar and *Casey Golden*, tune in for valuable insights and strategies to navigate the current economic landscape.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Inflation's Uneven Impact Across Age Groups
Retail Razor
February 24, 2025
Welcome to the Retail Razor Podcast Network's latest show, Data Blades! In this debut episode, we explore how inflation impacts different consumer age groups. Featuring Georgina Nelson, CEO of *TruRating*, we uncover insights derived from over 170,000 survey responses from the UK, North America, and Australia. Learn how rising costs affect seniors versus under-30s shoppers differently, and why a nuanced approach to retail strategies is essential. Join hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden as they discuss how retailers can tailor their messaging and strategies to stay competitive in these challenging economic times. Don't miss out on these valuable commerce insights!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Cutting Through the Clutter: Retail Razor's Season Four Finale
Retail Razor
January 31, 2025
Welcome to the season four grand finale of the Retail Razor Show! In this exciting episode, guest host J.P. Kamel, Managing Director of RFID Sherpas, turns the tables on regular hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden. They dive into our hosts’ top 10 retail predictions from 2024, assess their accuracy, and discuss the future of retail trends, including the evolution of retail media, the role of AI, and the survival of department stores. The episode is packed with insights about unified commerce, live streaming, and the critical importance of data-driven decision-making and ethics in AI. Don't miss the highlights from this season and a sneak peek into what's in store for season five!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Department Stores 2.0: Building Experiences for Tomorrow
Retail Razor
December 31, 2024
In this highly-anticipated Retail Avengers reunion episode, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden, welcome back the team (Jeff Roster, Shish Shridhar, & Brandon Rael) to dive deep into the future of department stores! They explore why department stores are struggling, how retail leaders can fix these issues, and the roles that AI, retail media, and the human connection play in transforming the consumer experience.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Unlocking Retail: AI, Ethics, and the Future of Commerce
Retail Razor
December 18, 2024
Join hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden as they dive into the practical and ethical aspect of AI and commerce technology in the retail industry. In this special episode, Ricardo and Casey reflect on the critical groundwork companies need before deploying new AI technologies. From the balance of AI-driven innovation to maintaining human touch, they explore the fine line between aspirational marketing and authenticity, emphasizing the importance of ethical frameworks and brand values. Tune in to gain sharp insights for customer experience leaders, marketing executives, and everyone involved in retail tech!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Marketing
From Frontline to C-Suite: Effective Communication Strategies with Ron Thurston
Retail Razor
December 06, 2024
In this final episode of Season 1, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden sit down with Ron Thurston, co-founder of Ossy and bestselling author of Retail Pride.
Dive into Ron's insights on the crucial question: How can retailers bridge the communication gap between corporate and frontline store teams?
Learn about the three pillars of success — empathy, curiosity, and focus — and discover practical advice on building trust and improving collaboration in the retail industry. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on enhancing retail leadership and operations!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Retail Leadership: Crafting a Positive and Productive Culture with April Sabral
Retail Razor
December 02, 2024
In this episode of Retail Razor's new standalone show, 'Blade to Greatness,' hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden sit down with April Sabral, founder of RetailU and author of The Positive Effect and Incurable Positivity. With extensive experience running stores for major brands like Starbucks, Apple, and Banana Republic, April discusses the crucial role of cultivating a positive culture in retail organizations. Learn why positive leadership is key to employee satisfaction and business success, and discover actionable tips for leading and inspiring your retail team. Tune in for insightful advice on transforming your retail career and business culture.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Converting Customer Insights to Action Through Smart Fitting Rooms
Retail Razor
November 27, 2024
In this episode of the Retail Razor Show, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden dive into the transformative potential of digital fitting rooms with guest Matthew Cyr, CEO and co-founder of Crave Retail. Learn how smart fitting rooms can significantly enhance customer experience, improve conversion rates, and provide valuable data that retailers often overlook. Discover how these innovations can reduce return rates, optimize store operations, and leverage AI for better merchandising and customer service. This episode is packed with insights on how retailers can make informed decisions to maximize revenue and improve overall store performance.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Unlocking Retail Leadership: Fostering Intrapreneurship with Jeffrey P. McNulty
Retail Razor
November 20, 2024
Welcome to 'Blade to Greatness,' the latest show from Retail Razor where we delve into the essential skills and qualities every retail executive needs to excel. Hosted by Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden, this episode features Jeffrey P. McNulty, founder and CEO of the New Retail Ethos and author of the Ultimate Retail Manual. Drawing from his 30 years of retail leadership experience and 18 years as a retail research analyst, Jeffrey shares his invaluable insights on fostering a culture of intrapreneurship.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Revolutionizing Retail Hiring: Insights from Ron Thurston
Retail Razor
November 18, 2024
Welcome to the fourth episode of Blade to Greatness, hosted by Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden. In this episode, they interview Ron Thurston, co-founder of Ossy and bestselling author of Retail Pride. Ron discusses his initiative to transform the retail hiring process by addressing the unique needs of retail frontline roles.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
April Sabral Reveals the Secret to Retail Leadership: A Positive Mindset
Retail Razor
November 15, 2024
Welcome to Blade to Greatness, a new series by Retail Razor where industry leaders share their insights on excelling in the retail field. In this episode, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden speak with April Sabral, founder of RetailU and author of The Positive Effect and Incurable Positivity. With over three decades of experience at brands like Starbucks and Apple, April discusses the importance of a positive mindset in business, especially in retail. She shares how positivity impacts customer and employee experiences, and offers tips on practices to maintain a positive outlook. Don't miss out on her valuable advice for retail leaders on fostering a positive work environment.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Empowering Retail Leadership: The Importance of Employee Autonomy with Jeffrey P. McNulty
Retail Razor
November 13, 2024
Welcome to the second episode of 'Blade to Greatness,' the Retail Razor show where hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden dive into retail leadership. This episode features Jeffrey P McNulty, founder of New Retail Ethos, sharing his extensive experience and insights on the critical importance of employee autonomy. Jeffrey discusses how autonomy leads to innovation and success, citing examples from tech industry giants and his own success at The Home Depot. Tune in for actionable insights, leadership tips, and exclusive offers!
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
Mastering Intrinsic Motivation in Retail: Insights from Jeffrey P. McNulty
Retail Razor
November 11, 2024
In the inaugural episode of The Retail Razor: Blade to Greatness, hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden engage with Jeffrey P McNulty, a renowned retail industry veteran, to explore effective strategies for retail executives to foster a motivating work environment. Drawing from his extensive background with major retail brands and as a retail research analyst, McNulty provides invaluable insights on tapping into employees' intrinsic motivation, a key element for enhancing productivity, satisfaction, and loyalty. The episode underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing the internal drivers of team members, using approachable leadership techniques, including a series of thought-provoking questions aimed at unlocking this motivation. Additionally, McNulty extends special offers to listeners interested in furthering their retail leadership skills through his courses.
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Tags: Customer Loyalty, Leadership, Management
