In this special episode, we take you inside the opening keynote from EVOLVE, where the spotlight is on navigating change in your retail business with strength and resilience.

You’ll discover why your brain naturally resists change, how to reframe discomfort into growth, and even how to channel emotions like anger into purpose and momentum. From unexpected tariffs to tightening ad budgets, this episode is filled with actionable insights for retail leaders ready to thrive—even through tough times

[2:42] Why your brain is wired to resist change

[2:56] The comfort of familiarity vs. the discomfort of growth

[4:01] Why change feels exhausting—and how to move through it

[5:04] The emotional toll of business shifts

[10:08] How anger can become your driving passion

[10:35] Using emotions to fuel your retail store’s growth

[12:25] Turning tariffs and challenges into innovation

[17:36] Being strategic with ad spending

[20:26] Why showing up—consistently—matters most

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What happens when a business is born out of mud runs, muscle pain, and a mission to help others heal? In this episode, we sit down with Natalie Gardner, co-owner of Dr. Doug’s Balms, to explore how a grassroots wellness brand scaled with heart, honesty, and a focus on progress—not perfection.

From magnesium-infused balms to mindset shifts for overwhelmed entrepreneurs, Natalie shares why staying rooted in purpose matters more than chasing trends. She also breaks down how retailers can embrace imperfection, lead with authenticity, and ask for what they truly need.

This episode will inspire you to build a brand that protects, heals, and restores—for both customers and creators alike.

[3:16] Natalie’s journey into retail and wellness
[5:45] A walk-through of the Dr. Doug’s Balms product line
[7:39] How to stand out without relying on trends and flash
[11:20] Embracing imperfect progress as a retail mindset
[14:51] What to do when business feels overwhelming
[18:58] The underrated power of asking for what you need
[20:21] The benefits of magnesium and why it’s trending in wellness

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Love Rooted in Retail? Join IndERA—just $25/month, or go Pro and save $503 with code FM503 by 5/31.

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What do Disney-level customer experiences have to do with your bottom line? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, Vance Morris—a former Disney World executive turned customer experience strategist—reveals the secrets behind turning casual buyers into loyal fans.

Drawing from years of real-world experience at one of the world’s most customer-obsessed brands, Vance shares powerful strategies that retailers and e-commerce businesses can use to boost retention, create memorable brand moments, and stand out in a competitive market. From the underrated value of print ads to the magic behind intentional experiences, this episode is packed with insights for businesses serious about customer loyalty.

[8:50] How to turn first-time buyers into repeat customers

[15:22] Why print ads still work in a digital age

[16:41] The crucial mindset shift every retailer needs

[21:15] How customer experience drives loyalty and long-term retention

[22:53] Disney-inspired strategies to transform your brand experience

[30:24] Using e-commerce packaging to elevate product perception and delight

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation

Love Rooted in Retail? Join IndERA—just $25/month, or go Pro and save $503 with code FM503 by 5/31.

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