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Join us for an inspiring journey with Theo Killion, a remarkable leader who transformed his life from a coal mining town in West Virginia to the pinnacle of retail success as a public company CEO. Theo’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability, shaped by the profound influence of his grandparents and his early challenges at a prestigious New York private school. You'll uncover his rise through the ranks at Macy's, from a trainee to head of human resources, and his bold leap into new opportunities that defined his career. Immerse yourself in Theo’s world of retail wisdom, grounded in humility and the courage to embrace change.

Explore retail excellence and discover the foundational pillars that drive success: the customer experience, employee empowerment, and innovative product development. We reflect on Theo's shift from public school teaching to the retail industry, sharing transformative strategies that prioritize customer satisfaction and inclusivity. Delve into the integration of technology and AI in retail, reshaping supply chains and enhancing data recovery. Our discussion highlights inspiring leaders who've championed customer-centric approaches, showcasing how empathy and collaboration build high-performing teams.

Find inspiration through personal anecdotes and memorable experiences that illustrate quick decision-making and resilience. We celebrate transformative figures like Abraham Lincoln, Sam Walton, and others, drawing parallels between their humble beginnings and today’s retail success stories. Tune in to learn how these narratives shape the evolving landscape of retail, honoring modern-day leaders whose innovative visions have led to remarkable achievements.

Theo Killion's Biography

Theo Killion's career spans nearly five decades in the retail industry having served as a director for both public and private company boards of directors and in a variety of executive leadership roles for some of the most iconic retail brands in North America. Mr. Killion currently serves on the board of directors of Torrid Holdings Inc., a direct-to-consumer apparel and intimates brand, as well as Claire’s Stores, a jewelry and accessories retailer. He also previously served on the boards of directors of Tailored Brands, Inc., Libbey, Inc., Express, Inc. and The Zale Corporation. During his time as a retail executive, Mr. Killion served as Chief Executive Officer for The Zale Corporation and in a variety of other leadership positions for Tommy Hilfiger, Limited Brands, The Home Shopping Network and Macy’s.

Mr. Killion currently serves as a managing partner of the Sierra Institute, a Dallas based human resources consortium. In addition to his retail industry and corporate governance experience, Mr. Killion has deep expertise in all matters relating to human capital, including CEO succession planning, talent identification and leadership development, organizational design and effectiveness, building high-performance teams, and executive compensation and benefits. Mr. Killion is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors. He is a Vice-Chairman of the non-profit A Better Chance program and a member of the Advisory Board of his alma mater, Tufts University.

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Jamie Crummie, the dynamic co-founder of Too Good To Go, joins us to share his transformative journey from a legal career to pioneering a global movement against food waste. Brace yourself for an enlightening conversation that promises to reveal how Jamie's personal values and upbringing—rooted deeply in justice and sustainability—led him to create the world's largest marketplace for surplus food. Discover how his venture is making a positive impact on the planet while providing businesses with innovative solutions to turn potential losses into opportunities.

Our discussion takes a closer look at the significant role of Too Good To Go in promoting sustainability, particularly in the context of food waste and insecurity. With partnerships ranging from local eateries to retail giants like Whole Foods, Too Good To Go offers a unique "triple win" scenario—consumers enjoy savings, businesses cut waste, and the environment thrives. Jamie gives us a glimpse into the future of food systems, emphasizing that sustainable business practices not only make ecological sense but are commercially savvy as well.

Throughout our conversation, Jamie underscores the power of passion and mentorship in driving entrepreneurial success. He shares insights on maintaining focus and resilience amidst challenges, painting a vivid picture of how staying true to a vision can lead to global impact. The episode wraps up with a personal touch, where Jamie opens up about his favorite comfort food and shares advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on balancing perfectionism with progress. Tune in to be inspired by Jamie's story and to learn how you too can be a catalyst for change.

Biography:

Jamie Crummie is the co-founder of Too Good To Go, the world's largest marketplace for surplus food. With a background in law, Jamie holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Leeds University and a Master’s in Human Rights Law (LLM) from Queen Mary University. His legal training and passion for human rights laid the foundation for his commitment to fighting food waste and promoting sustainable practices.

Too Good To Go, founded in 2016, is a market-leading app that empowers consumers to save unsold food from restaurants and retailers, ensuring it doesn’t go to waste. The app connects over 80 million users with 135,000 active food businesses across 17 countries, collectively rescuing over 250 million meals. Under Jamie’s leadership, the company has grown into a global movement dedicated to inspiring and empowering individuals to take action against food waste. The mission of Too Good To Go extends beyond technology, fostering a community of “Waste Warriors” who are driving positive change for the planet.

Jamie’s impact has been widely recognized. He was named an Obama Leader in 2023, Sustainability Entrepreneur of the Year at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards in 2022, and a Trailblazing Activist in Forbes' 50 Next class of 2021. He has also been honored as One Young World’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2020 and included in Forbes' 30 Under 30 in Europe in 2019. Driven by purpose and a vision for a healthier planet, Jamie continues to seek collaborations that support sustainable food systems and environmental impact.

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Stacy Igel, the visionary behind the brand Boy Meets Girl, takes us on an exhilarating journey through her impressive career in fashion. Discover how Stacey's entrepreneurial spirit was kindled at a young age, from helping her mother at trade shows to achieving top seller status at the Gap while still in school. With resilience and a mission-driven approach, she discusses how the events of 9/11 influenced her decision to champion diversity and sustainability, offering listeners a glimpse into the balance of professionalism and personal connection that fueled her brand's success.

As fashion trends shift and evolve, Stacy reveals the power of platforms like TikTok in rekindling nostalgia and bringing vintage vibes back into the spotlight. Her brand has navigated the ebbs and flows of digital technology, maintaining authenticity through a clear vision and adapting to trends like Web3. We delve into the fascinating intersection of online gaming and fashion, exploring how Boy Meets Girl is connecting with young audiences on platforms like Roblox, and partnering internationally, such as with Finland's Prisma SOK, to spread its core values globally.

Join us for tales from the entrepreneurial frontlines, where Stacy shares her experiences from a successful book tour, and reflects on meaningful collaborations with industry icons such as Wyclef Jean. From a serendipitous encounter in the park to a memorable performance with Natasha Beddingfield, Stacy's journey is filled with gratitude and innovation. This episode promises to inspire, offering a blend of professional triumphs and personal stories, and providing rich insights into the world of fashion entrepreneurship.

Biography:

Stacy Igel is the founder and creative director of Boy Meets Girl®, a global fashion brand known for its iconic double-silhouette logo and contemporary athleisure wear. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, her journey began with internships at top designers like Donna Karan and Elie Tahari, eventually leading her to launch Boy Meets Girl in 2001. Stacy’s designs have graced celebrities like Rosario Dawson and Kendall Jenner and are sold at major retailers such as Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue and at retailers globally.

A proud alumna of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she majored in retailing with concentrations in design and merchandising, Stacy credits her education with providing the foundation for her success. Her brand, Boy Meets Girl, carries a strong message that confidence and courage are trends that never go out of style.

Stacy is an accomplished author. Her book, "Embracing the Calm in the Chaos," published in 2023, offers insights into building a successful business while navigating life's challenges. Her book tour has taken her across the globe, sharing her journey and inspiring others. Stacy is also the co-creator and co-host of the podcast #MOMSGOTTHIS, recognized by Forbes as a must-listen women-created podcast. She has collaborated with organizations like the Young Survival Coalition, Human Rights Watch, and BullyBust to make a positive impact through her work.

Stacy’s contributions to fashion and philanthropy have been featured in numerous publications, including InStyle, Elle, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Allure, PEOPLE, Teen Vogue, Seventeen, Women’s Wear Daily, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times. Her partnerships extend to exclusive fashion collaborations with Paris’s Colette, Roots Canada, and NBA’s Chicago Bulls, among others. Stacy continues to influence and inspire through her innovative work and commitment to positive social impact.

Contact/Profile:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacyigel/

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Prepare to be inspired by Sherif Mityas, the innovative mind who transformed TGI Fridays with AI before it was even a buzzword. Discover how Sherif's journey from aerospace engineering to becoming the CEO of Brix Holdings, which includes beloved brands like Friendly's and Clean Juice, has shaped his unique leadership approach. From his early days at Sears and his pivotal roles at Movie Gallery and Hollywood Video, Sherif shares career-defining moments and insights into the changing landscape of consumer behavior in the restaurant industry.

Imagine AI as your right-hand assistant, streamlining operations and enhancing customer experiences. In this episode, we explore the revolutionary potential of AI in the hospitality sector, especially in supporting general managers with crucial data for better decision-making. Sherif's expertise highlights the balance between leveraging technology for personalized service and maintaining high standards of operational excellence. Learn how reinvesting cost efficiencies into supply chains and infrastructure can elevate the guest experience and why effective communication is a cornerstone of successful leadership.

Authenticity and adaptability are key themes as Sherif recounts personal experiences that have shaped his leadership style. From taking improv classes to improve quick thinking to overcoming imposter syndrome, his stories underscore the importance of humility and continuous learning. Tune in for an engaging conversation that bridges the gap between top executives and our audience, offering rare and valuable insights.

Biography:
Sherif Mityas is an experienced strategist and executive leader with over 25 years in the retail and hospitality sectors, known for driving innovation and delivering significant stakeholder value. As the CEO of BRIX Holdings, a leading restaurant investment group, Sharif oversees a portfolio of over 350 locations across multiple brands, including Friendly’s, Red Mango, Orange Leaf, Smoothie Factory+Kitchen, SouperSalad, and Pizza Jukebox.

Sherif's career is marked by his tenure as the Chief Experience Officer for TGI FRIDAYS, where he led the brand’s strategy, marketing, innovation, and digital transformation. He also served as the CEO for Hollywood Video/Movie Gallery and Game Crazy, demonstrating his ability to lead organizations through significant changes and challenges. Recognized as one of the top 10 innovators in the restaurant industry by Nation's Restaurant News and the Global CXO of the year in DFW, Sherif is celebrated for his strategic vision and expertise in customer experience management, marketing, and consumer analytics.

A strong advocate for diversity and a robust organizational culture, Sherif has been named one of DFW’s Most Admired CEOs by the Dallas Business Journal. His educational background includes a B.S. in aerospace engineering from Boston University, an M.S. in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management.

Contact/Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherif-mityas-94a91116/

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Curious about what it takes to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of retail and technology? Andrew Laudato, COO of Vitamin Shoppe, joins us to uncover the secrets behind his transformative career journey, from pivotal college decisions to navigating dynamic roles at major retailers like Bath & Body Works and Pier 1 Imports. Tune in to hear how Andrew's passion for people-oriented work and his strategic moves across industries have shaped his approach to leadership, innovation, and community building in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

We've got an insightful exploration of building robust IT infrastructures that keep retail businesses agile and competitive. Discover how transitioning from monolithic structures to composable architecture is akin to piecing together a versatile Lego set, enabling retailers to scale and adapt quickly to new technologies. Andrew shares the vital strategies of data visualization and enterprise design that are crucial for maintaining stability and security while fostering innovation. You'll learn why avoiding hardcoding is essential for flexibility and how a strategic enterprise architect plays a pivotal role in retail evolution.

Ever wondered how AI can revolutionize customer service and operations? Listen as Andrew sheds light on the innovative use of AI and technology at Vitamin Shoppe, from real-time translation tools to strategic telehealth partnerships that enhance health and well-being. We delve into the significance of mentorship and curiosity in navigating technological changes, with Andrew reflecting on personal stories and insights from mentors who've influenced his integrity and leadership style. This episode wraps up with thoughts on standing out in a changing world, emphasizing cultural understanding, practical experience, and the power of teaching to enhance one's expertise.

Biography:
Andrew Laudato is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Vitamin Shoppe, a leading health and wellness retailer. In this role, he leads operations across e-commerce, information technology, enterprise project management, supply chain, strategic sourcing, quality, and commercialization. Passionate about the fusion of people, process, and technology, Andrew is a recognized leader in digital transformation.

Andrew joined The Vitamin Shoppe in January 2019 as EVP, Chief Technology and Supply Chain Officer. Since then, he has spearheaded the launch of a new technology-driven retail format, introduced personalization initiatives, and improved process efficiency across the supply chain. His efforts earned him a promotion to COO in January 2020.

Before his tenure at The Vitamin Shoppe, Andrew served as Chief Information Officer at Brookdale Senior Living and spent 16 years as CIO at Pier 1 Imports, where he directed technology transformation across all business areas. He began his career at L Brands, a common starting point for many retail veterans.

Andrew is a member of the CNBC Technology Executive Council, the New York City CIO Executive Council, and an executive board member of George Mason University’s Center for Retail Transformation. He also serves on the board of Lideranca, a small business focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. A past Chair of the National Retail Federation’s CIO Council, Andrew was recognized by the NRF in 2016 for his outstanding contributions to the retail industry.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlaudato/

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Discover the compelling journey of Deirdre Fitzgerald, President of International for Knitwell Group, as she takes you through her inspiring career in retail. From her initial days at Bloomingdale's through her transformative experiences at New Balance, Deirdre's path is marked by pivotal moments that shaped her into the leader she is today. Tune in to hear how a passion for retail blossomed from her background in English literature to her dynamic roles across cosmetics and men's apparel confirmed her calling in this vibrant industry.

Unearth the delicate interplay of art and science that defines retail merchandising today. Deirdre shares her expertise on balancing intuition with data-driven insights, offering a fresh take on making informed product and consumer decisions. As traditional training programs like Bloomingdale's fade, we explore new strategies for nurturing talent and the critical role of localization in global markets. Discover the unique challenges faced by merchants and the evolving role they play in shaping the future of retail.

Gain strategic insights into navigating the retail landscape with a focus on consumer behavior, inventory management, and the balance between online and brick-and-mortar experiences. Deirdre generously imparts career advice, underscoring the importance of long-term thinking, effective leadership, and embracing failure as a powerful learning tool. Highlighting the value of mentorship and team development, she emphasizes the significance of personal growth, continuous learning, and the strength of individual relationships. Join us as we wrap up with Deirdre's refreshing perspective on leadership, life inspirations, and the camaraderie that fuels success in this ever-evolving industry.

Biography: DEIRDRE FITZGERALD

Deirdre FitzGerald is the President of International for KnitWell Group a dominant portfolio of women’s specialty retail brands including Ann Taylor, Chico’s, Lane Bryant, LOFT, Soma, Talbots, and White House Black Market, that together generate more than $6 Billion in sales annually. In her role Deirdre leads the development and implementation of growth strategies designed to expand the value and reach of the brands through strategic partnerships domestically and internationally.

Previously, Deirdre served as President of the Talbots brand, an iconic American apparel retailer with more than 500 stores across the United States as well as an online business that together generate more than $1.2 billion in sales annually. As President, in partnership with her leadership team, she created stability amidst the pandemic and restored financial growth and profitability to the brand.

Prior to Talbots, Deirdre spent seven years with New Balance where she served as the Executive Vice President of Global Apparel and Licensing. In her role she led the transformation of the Global Apparel design, Innovation, Product management, Merchandising, and Licensing teams, resulting in a period of unprecedented growth and profitability.

Earlier in her career Deirdre spent nearly a decade with the Talbots brand, ultimately serving as the Executive Vice President and General Merchandise Manager for Talbots and she also served as the Head of Men's Apparel at J. Crew and in various merchandising roles at Brooks Brothers. Deirdre began her career at Bloomingdales’ where she completed their executive training program.

Deirdre is committed to supporting women and is a member of the Global Board of Directors for Dress for Success, an organization dedicated to empowering women. She is also on the Advisory Board for the Hingham Historical Society and the Board of Directors for Repurpose for a Purpose.

Deirdre holds a BA in English Literature from

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Ever wondered how a global retail strategist balances the fine line between human touch and cutting-edge technology? Join us as we sit down with Liza, the dynamic co-founder of Retail Strategy Group, to uncover secrets from her illustrious career spanning iconic brands like Harrods, Ralph Lauren, and Nike. From her early dreams in fashion design to her pivotal roles in buying and marketing, Liza's journey is a masterclass in perseverance and adaptability. Discover her unique approach to retail that prioritizes meaningful change over mere noise, and learn how her extensive travels and global experiences have shaped her visionary outlook.

In this episode, we dive into the nitty-gritty of Liza's career milestones, from navigating failures like a sleepwear line at Club Monaco to mastering the art of customer service and brand localization. Gain valuable insights into building and testing retail trends, and understand the crucial balance between listening to customer feedback and maintaining fundamental business practices. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring entrepreneur, Liza's candid reflections offer a treasure trove of lessons and strategies for success in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

But there's more—Liza opens up about the unique challenges faced by women of color in the retail industry and the importance of diversity and inclusion. Hear her inspiring stories of overcoming discouraging advice and transforming negative feedback into powerful motivation. With organizations like the Women of Color Retail Alliance playing a pivotal role, Liza emphasizes how diverse recruitment practices can drive business performance and innovation. Don't miss this empowering conversation that not only highlights Liza's professional achievements but also her passion for promoting a more inclusive and dynamic retail industry.

Liza's Bio:

Liza Amlani is the Principal and Co-Founder of Retail Strategy Group. The firm works with retailers and brands, helping them improve profitability and organizational effectiveness.

Clients span apparel, footwear, luxury, retail tech, and more. Liza is a respected voice and is cited in Forbes, Bloomberg, Chain Store Age, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Sourcing Journal, and Footwear News.

Liza has been recognized by Rethink Retail as a “Top Retail Expert of 2024.” This honor is given to a select group of experts chosen from a group of 400 nominees.

Before founding Retail Strategy Group, Liza was the merchandising expert in Accenture’s retail strategy practice. Before that, she spent 20+ in retail with companies including Ralph Lauren, Club Monaco, Sporting Life and more.

She brings a wealth of global insight to her clients given the number of countries in which she has resided – Liza has moved 29 times in her life from Canada to the UK to Africa. Today, New York City is home as she teaches at the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizaamlani/

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What happens when you mix high-energy marketing genius with raw authenticity? You get Doug Zarkin. Today, we're bringing you an inspiring conversation with Doug Zarkin, the marketing mastermind behind heavy-hitting brands like Pearl Vision and Victoria's Secret. Doug opens up about navigating the peaks and valleys of his career journey, from high school rejections to pivotal career decisions. He takes us behind the scenes of writing his book, "Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone," sharing his unique blend of art and science in marketing and how his education at George Washington University shaped his path. Doug's stories and insights are for aspiring marketers and anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.

Are loyalty programs transforming customer experiences or just another gimmick? Discover Doug's perspective on the evolving landscape of brand loyalty and innovation as we discuss standout programs like Marriott's Bonvoy and Delta's service enhancements. Doug shares how Marriott's flexible check-out times and Delta’s improved service offerings are setting new standards in customer satisfaction. We also touch on the balance between technological innovation and practical customer service solutions, highlighting the future of CRM systems in creating more human-centric business practices.

Authenticity and vulnerability in leadership? Yes, please. Doug’s candid discussion on company culture offers a fresh perspective on first impressions during the interview process and the role of real-time feedback. From self-deprecating leadership to the quirks of daily life, Doug's anecdotes reveal the importance of balancing professional and personal life with humor and relatability. He leaves us with powerful advice on embracing authenticity and using setbacks as stepping stones for success. Tune in for a treasure trove of wisdom from a marketing leader who truly walks the talk.

Doug Zarkin Biography:
Doug Zarkin is a renowned Chief Marketing Officer celebrated for his strategic acumen in brand revitalization, team leadership, and driving significant growth across multiple sectors. With a career that began in advertising, Doug co-founded G-WHiZ!, Grey Advertising’s division focused on youth, entertainment, and lifestyle marketing, crafting campaigns that captivated audiences nationwide. His tenure at Avon Products marked the launch of the “Mark.” brand, achieving $118 million in revenue within 18 months. At Victoria’s Secret PINK, as Vice President of Marketing, he transformed it into a $400 million brand, showcasing his ability to scale brands significantly. Doug’s impactful roles at global apparel giants Warnaco and Kellwood further underscored his marketing prowess. Doug is currently the Chief Customer Officer at Good Feet Holdings and previously served as the Chief Marketing Officer for Luxottica’s Pearle Vision, where he led a transformative brand overhaul that not only changed the company's market perception from discount to quality care but also sustained double-digit profit growth over eight years. This repositioning helped place Pearle Vision at the top of Entrepreneur’s Top 500 Franchise list. His leadership has earned him multiple Effie and Clio awards and a place in a Harvard Business School case study on brand revival. Doug is also the author of "Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone," encapsulating his expertise in crafting influential brand narratives and fostering deep consumer connections.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougzarkin/

To purchase "Moving Your Brand Out of The Friend Zone", visit:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKD7F4S4