Main Street Matters

Terresa Zimmerman
  • 5.0 (8)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Join award-winning entrepreneur Terresa Zimmerman as she explores independent retail success across the United States. After founding Wood Underwear® in 2012, Terresa discovered her passion for Main Street retail businesses that form America's economic backbone. Each episode features US retail owners and industry experts sharing proven strategies, overcoming challenges, and building thriving local businesses. Get actionable insights, connect with fellow American retailers, and discover success stories that make Main Street matter.

  1. 07/25/2025

    5 Game-Changing Lessons from Main Street's Best: Season 1 Wrap-Up

    Join host Terresa Zimmerman as she wraps up an incrediblefirst season of Main Street Matters. From featuring inspiring Main Street store owners to connecting with passionate advocates and champions, this season has been filled with powerful stories and valuable insights. Thanks to amazinglisteners like you, the podcast has reached the top 10% of all podcasts! In this special wrap-up episode, Teresa shares the five keytakeaways from Season 1 - insights that are interrelated and self-reinforcing, all centered around what makes Main Street businesses truly special. Key Takeaways from Season 1 1. Relationships Are Everything Technology can't replace human connections - Main Street'sbiggest advantage is relationship-driven business. 2. Active Community Engagement Main Street stores and their communities support each otherthrough sponsorships, events, and mutual aid. 3. Adaptation is Critical Successful stores embrace new trends, technology, customerpreferences, and regulatory changes. 4. Staff Challenges and Opportunities Attracting, retaining, and training good staff is essentialfor growth and owner flexibility. 5. Succession Planning Every business owner needs a plan to keep their store openwhen they're ready to move on. Thank you A special thanks to all Season 1 guests, from Main Streetstore owners to advocates and champions who shared their stories and insights.Most importantly, thank you to the listeners who made this podcast a top 10%performer! Subscribe to Main Street Matters for more inspiringstories and practical insights from the heart of America's small businesscommunities. Connect with the Show: LinkedIn | Instagram | Join ourNewsletter Season 1 is a wrap - here's to many more powerfulconversations ahead!

    6 min

  2. 05/30/2025

    How to Keep Customers When Your Business Changes Hands: Philip Linkous | EP 22

    "These people (customers) are very intelligent, bright, and they've done well for themselves. But there's a certain minimalization to their life... they want as few things as possible to get the maximum result.” In this episode of the Main Street Matters Podcast, Terresa Zimmerman interviews Philip Linkous, where he shares the remarkable story of Bill Walker Clothier, a Houston menswear institution founded in 1983, and his journey from employee to owner over nearly three decades. In this candid conversation, Philip reveals how he and manager Shelley successfully acquired the business through a carefully planned six-year transition that kept the founder involved while modernizing operations. He discusses the challenges of maintaining a luxury retail business through economic downturns including COVID-19, the importance of master tailors and relationship-building salespeople, and how technology is transforming traditional retail while preserving the personal service that defines independent clothiers. Philip also explores Houston's rich heritage of family-owned menswear stores and shares insights on customer retention, succession planning, and the future of Main Street retail in an increasingly digital world. Episode Highlights -Business succession planning - 29-year employee to owner transition strategy -Customer retention during ownership change - Why clients don't know business changed hands -Small business survival tactics - Navigating COVID-19 and economic downturns -Custom menswear business model - Made-to-measure clothing and tailoring operations -Independent retail technology integration - AI, CRM systems, and text marketing -Sales team development - Building relationship-focused staff vs. order-takers -Houston menswear retail history - Multi-generational clothing store legacy -Quality control in custom clothing - Six-point inspection system for made-to-measure -Targeting younger professionals - Attracting millennials to traditional menswear -Small retailer marketing strategies - Email campaigns, trunk shows, and local partnerships Listener Takeaways For Retailers: Focus on relationship building over transaction volumeFor Business Owners: Plan succession years in advance, not monthsFor Service Providers: Invest in quality control systems that prevent mistakesFor Everyone: Support local businesses that create community connections Featured Store:Philip Linkous, Owner–Bill Walker Clothier Bill Walker Clothier represents Houston's enduring tradition of independent men's fashion retail, serving clients with personalized service, expert tailoring, and carefully curated clothing lines including their recent addition of Ralph Lauren. www.Billwalkerclothier.comhttps://www.instagram.com/billwalkerclothierhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-linkous-5b87541ahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bill-walker-clothier Address 1737 Post Oak BoulevardHouston, TX 77056In Post Oak PlazaBeside Kenny and Ziggys Contact Bill Walker Clothier Phone:713 871.9811Email: Info@BillWalkerClothier.com ___________________________________________ Connect with Us: Main Street Matters Podcast: Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM Host - Terresa Zimmerman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman

    53 min

  3. 04/16/2025

    A Store Full of Stories: The Distinctive Approach at Cave & Post Trading Company | EP 21

    In this episode, Terresa Zimmerman talks with Patrick Burch about the journey of creating Cave & Post Trading Co., a men's-focused retail store in Phoenix. Patrick explains how he and his wife Mary transformed what was meant to be a "glorified man cave" into a thriving retail business that bridges the gap in men's boutique shopping. The conversation explores how Cave & Post selects inventory with a focus on heritage brands, quality craftsmanship, and products with compelling stories. Patrick shares how they've created a welcoming "Cheers bar" atmosphere where customers are remembered by name, and he discusses their vision of inspiring men to live well-rounded lives beyond just looking good. Patrick offers candid insights about the financial challenges of marketing a modern retail business, particularly the complexities of managing digital ad spend across multiple platforms. He also discusses emerging retail trends, including the continued popularity of Western wear, growing interest in American-made products, and consumers' increasing preference for quality over fast fashion. Timestamps 00:01:07 - 00:03:48 - Origins, naming, location selection 00:04:28 - 00:06:04 - Aesthetics, fixtures, merchandising philosophy 00:08:01 - 00:12:30 - Initial buying strategy, market visits, finding new products 00:15:09 - 00:19:05 - Demographics, building relationships, personalized service 00:19:58 - 00:22:06 - Marketing costs, retail difficulties 00:30:52 - 00:32:56 - Trends, encouraging personal style, quality focus 00:35:36 - 00:38:48 - Price vs. value conversation, serving value-conscious customers 00:39:00 - 00:40:32 - Importance of brands with narratives, customer interest in these stories 00:41:47 - 00:42:36 - Employee knowledge and engagement 00:43:46 - 00:44:15 - Denim industry, textile history in North Carolina Featured Store: Connect with Cave and Post Trading Co. ⁠https://www.caveandpost.com/⁠ ⁠509 W McDowell Rd., Suite 102 Phoenix, AZ 85003⁠ ⁠602.931.0090⁠ / ⁠602.430.2032⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/caveandpost/⁠ Connect with Us: Main Street Matters Podcast: Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM Host - Terresa Zimmerman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman

    47 min

  4. 04/04/2025

    Beyond Competition: How Peer Networks Are Bolstering Independent Retail | EP 20

    Episode 20: Beyond Competition: How Peer Networks Are Bolstering Independent Retail Welcome to another episode of Main Street Matters, Terresa Zimmerman speaks with Fred Derring, a true champion of Main Street and principal of DLS Apparel Group. With over 40 years of experience working exclusively with independent retailers across the United States, Fred shares invaluable insights about the power of community in the independent retail space. Fred Derring has been in the retail industry since college, working his way up through independent stores, department stores, and consulting before founding DLS Apparel Group. His passion for both products and people has driven his mission to support independent retailers across America. Episode Highlights: -DLS helps independent retailers gain collective buying power while maintaining their unique identity. -Members share best practices in a non-competitive environment, visiting each other's stores to learn. -One retailer generated $500K in wholesale through an innovative graduation suit program. -Independent stores saw growth after COVID as shoppers discovered personalized shopping experiences. -Beyond merchandise, DLS provides marketing tools, digital support, and e-commerce guidance and best practice. -Getting customers in the door remains the biggest challenge for independent retailers. -DLS is expanding into coffee table books and complementary accessories and categories. Featured in this episode: DLS Apparel Group works exclusively with independent retailers, across the US, but most of their clients are eastward. Based in NY, they also go from the West Coast to St. Louis, Chicago, and Dallas. They scout products domestically and internationally, host buying meetings, and provide comprehensive support services to help independent stores thrive. DLS Apparel Group Menswear Retailers Premier Buying Office 130 W. 57th St., Ste 5C New York, NY 10019 Office 212.399.0750 Fred 917.699.1157 Virginia 917.509.6053 John 917.545.6887 Connect with Us: Main Street Matters Podcast: Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM Host - Terresa Zimmerman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman

    30 min

  5. 03/06/2025

    Family Business Success How Adrian Jules Built a 60-Year Custom Tailoring Legacy | EP 19

    "When you buy from Main Street, you're buying from the community, you're helping the community." In this episode of Main Street Matters, host Terresa Zimmerman interviews Matthew Roides, Director of Operations at Adrian Jules. Matthew shares the inspiring 60-year journey of his family's custom tailoring business. Founded by his Italian immigrant grandfather who arrived in America with just $33, Adrian Jules has grown into a respected name in luxury menswear with both wholesale and retail operations. Matthew discusses how the business maintains its commitment to American-made craftsmanship with over 70 employees in Rochester, NY, while adapting to changing fashion trends and customer preferences. He reveals how a personal tragedy inspired him to join the family business, the challenges of finding skilled craftspeople, and how creating genuine relationships with customers has been central to their decades of success. In this episode:-The founding story of Adrian Jules and its growth over the decades. -The unique challenges and rewards of running a multi-generational family business. -How Adrian Jules balances wholesale and retail operations. -The importance of maintaining high standards and craftsmanship in the garment industry. -Matthew's personal journey from aspiring physician assistant to leading the family business. -The significance of "Made in America" in their brand identity. -Insights into the future of the garment industry and the importance of community and Main Street businesses. Are you an independent retailer looking to build your own multi-generational legacy? Subscribe to Main Street Matters for more inspiring stories and practical business advice from successful store owners. Share your thoughts on today's episode in the comments or on social media using #MainStreetMatters. Connect With Matthew Roides: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-roides/ http://adrianjules.com/ Adrian Jules Retail https://adrianjulescustomclothier.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ajcustomsuits/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TkHdj-BqVWqvl89HmYz4g https://www.linkedin.com/company/adrian-jules-custom-clothier/ Wholesale https://www.adrianjulesltd.com/ https://www.instagram.com/adrianjules__ltd/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/adrian-jules-wholesale/ Stores: Rochester (585) 381-1111 | 2937 Monroe Ave., Rochester, NY 14618 Buffalo (716) 229-0102 | 5436 Main St., Williamsville, NY 14221 Connect with Us: Main Street Matters Podcast: Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM Host - Terresa Zimmerman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman

    45 min

  6. 02/19/2025

    Why Your Independent Store Needs LinkedIn Today - Growth Strategy with LinkedIn Expert Scott Aaron | EP 18

    Are you an independent retail store owner who's missing out on connecting with local professionals - your ideal customers - simply because you are not leveraging LinkedIn? You probably didn’t think it was for you. You thought wrong. It’s a big opportunity. This episode is a bit different from the usual episodes we have here on Main Street Matters. We invited an expert who shares his expertise on WHY WE SHOULD and HOW WE CAN increase our REACH, BUILD BRAND AWARENESS, and garner TRUST. Terresa Zimmerman welcomes LinkedIn expert Scott Aaron to show retailers how they can tap into this often-overlooked platform for business growth. Scott is an award-winning online marketer, a 4x best-selling author, a top podcaster with over 1 million downloads on iTunes, and a speaker known for turning LinkedIn connections into traffic, millions of dollars in business revenue, and strong personal brands. FULL DISCLOSURE: this is NOT a paid spot for Scott. We just think the information is that important for you and wanted to point out many of the free resources Scott pulls together for you. In this Episode, Scott shares practical strategies for using LinkedIn's free features to build meaningful local connections and create an authentic online presence that converts into foot traffic - all without getting lost in the social media time quagmire. GET YOUR FREE LINKEDIN ASSESSMENT HERE In this episode: Why LinkedIn is relevant for independent retail store ownersHow to build a targeted local network of up to 30,000 connectionsThe power of using your personal profile to boost your business’ online presenceTips for creating attraction marketing content that solves customer problemsStrategies for showcasing community involvement and building trustThe importance of sharing behind-the-scenes content and personal storiesHow to leverage LinkedIn's free features without paying for premium servicesStep-by-step guide to optimizing your LinkedIn profile for local businessWays to integrate community events and promotions into your LinkedIn strategy GET YOUR FREE LINKEDIN ASSESSMENT HERE:  Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:17 - LinkedIn for Independent Retail Store Owners 00:02:29 - Scott's Background in Storefront Business Ownership 00:05:09 - The Importance of LinkedIn for Retail Businesses 00:06:07 - Local Business Success Story on LinkedIn 00:09:00 - Building a Local Network on LinkedIn 00:10:16 - Leveraging LinkedIn for Community Building 00:11:48 - Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile 00:12:27 - Content Strategy for Retail Business Owners 00:14:19 - Attraction Marketing on LinkedIn 00:17:05 - Using Video Content Effectively 00:19:40 - Importance of Community Involvement 00:21:26 - Utilizing LinkedIn Groups for Local Connections 00:22:56 - Personal vs. Business Profiles on LinkedIn 00:25:08 - Consistency and Effort in LinkedIn Marketing 00:25:28 - Scott's Free Programs and Resources 00:27:34 - Why Main Street Matters Connect with Scott Aaron Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottaaroncoach/ His podcast - Networking and Marketing Made Simple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/networking-and-marketing-made-simple/id1719117825 Scott's Websites Personal The Time To Grow Scott’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottaaronlinkedin Connect with Us: Main Street Matters Podcast: Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM Host - Terresa Zimmerman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman

    30 min

  7. 01/29/2025

    BUY Local or BYE Local: Why Shopping Local is Your Community's Lifeline | EP 17

    When you buy from a chain store or online, the money leaves your community instantly. When you buy local, that same dollar circulates 3.5 times in your community. That's not just business - that's your town's future. In this episode of Main Street Matters, Terresa Zimmerman and Peter Rose, co-owner of Chelsea Group in Wyandotte, Michigan, shares his family's 80-year retail journey and delivers an important, maybe even urgent, message about the importance of shopping local. From his grandfather's humble beginnings as a Boy Scout supplier in 1943 to today's retail challenges, Peter reveals how local businesses are the heartbeat of thriving communities and why every purchase decision matters. What You'll Get in This Episode:- How did a single store in 1943 grow into 23 stores across Detroit, and why did they return to two stores today?- What's the story behind the women's store transformation from "The Empire Room" to "Willow Tree"? - What made Wyandotte's three menswear stores on one block work together instead of compete? - Why does Peter choose in-person service over online sales? - How has Chelsea Group managed to maintain relevance across multiple generations of shoppers and staff? - What's the "beach ball" analogy and how does it relate to local business health? - Why does buying local bring 3.5 times more impact than shopping at national chains? - What challenges do local retailers face with tariffs and staffing today? - How did Peter promote local shopping through writing and the "Love Wyandotte" initiative? - Despite modern retail challenges, what's driving the business's recent growth?Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:50 - The history of Chelsea Group03:04 - The transition from Boy Scout supplier to menswear06:08 - The rise and fall of the business10:19 - The impact of malls and national chains15:16 - Peter's first buying trip22:32 - The role of technology in retail28:55 - The importance of local community and Main Street35:48 - The American Independent Business Alliance44:36 - The future of local retail and challenges ahead Featured Store: Chelsea Group – Chelsea Menswear and Willow Tree women’s boutique Peter Rose – Owner 2944 Biddle, Wyandotte, MI 48192 +1.734.282.7755 https://www.chelseamenswear.com/ https://www.instagram.com/chelseamenswear https://www.instagram.com/willowtreewyandotte/ https://www.willowtreefashions.com/ Mentions in this episode: American Independent Business Alliance https://amiba.net/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-independent-business-alliance/ Institute for Local Self-Reliance https://ilsr.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-local-self-reliance/posts/?feedView=all Connect with Us: Main Street Matters Podcast: Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM Host - Terresa Zimmerman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman

    1h 1m

  8. 01/15/2025

    Small Town, Big Data: How The Natty Dresser Found Its Fit? | EP 16

    From outfitting farmers for their daughters' strawberry festival coronations to helping a cancer patient rebuild his confidence, The Natty Dresser is proving that a men's clothing store can be more than just a retailer – it can be a catalyst for personal transformation in a community. Host Terresa Zimmerman talks with Oscar Hult, who turned market research into retail success by opening The Natty Dresser in Albany, Oregon. With no prior retail experience but armed with census data and a background in historic preservation, Oscar grew his men's store from a 1,500 square foot startup to a renovated historic building more than double the size. His secret? Deep community engagement and a mission to transform lives through their motto: "dress well, be confident, find success." In this episode: -How Oscar used market research and his Main Street experience to identify the need for a men's store -The journey from a 1,500 sq ft startup and learning the trade to purchasing and renovating a historic building -Creating community connections through events like the Albany Tweed Ride and First Friday celebrations -The challenges and opportunities of running a formal menswear store in casual-leaning Oregon -Building a strong team through shared values and a focus on hospitality -The impact of dressing well on confidence and life transformations -Navigating buying without prior industry experience -The importance of historical preservation in maintaining vibrant downtowns -How faith and service guide the store's mission and operations Featured Store: Oscar Hult, Owner The Natty Dresser LLC 124 Broadalbin St. SW Albany, Oregon 97321 541-248-3561 Website https://thenattydresser.com/about-us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_nattydresser/ Other mentions: Tweed Ride, May 10, 2025 - https://thenattydresser.com/mens-clothing-albany-or-tweed-ride/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscar-hult-b25b531b/ Albany Downtown Association - https://albanydowntown.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/albany-downtown-association/ National Main Street Project - https://mainstreet.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-america/ https://www.instagram.com/natlmainstreet/ Custom Tailors & Designers Association - https://www.ctda.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ctdausa/ Connect with Us: Main Street Matters Podcast: Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM Host - Terresa Zimmerman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman Timestamps: Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Main Street Matters 00:00:38 - Meet Oscar Holt: The Natty Dresser 00:01:06 - The Need for a Men's Clothing Store 00:02:24 - Growth and Expansion of The Natty Dresser 00:04:52 - Community Engagement and Historic Preservation 00:06:37 - Building Relationships and Customer Base 00:08:30 - Word of Mouth Marketing 00:09:11 - Community Involvement and Events 00:11:00 - The Albany Tweed Ride 00:12:26 - Albany's Historic Significance 00:13:10 - Initial Offerings and Product Evolution 00:16:31 - Creating a Confident Customer Experience 00:17:05 - Online Presence and Tailoring Services 00:18:21 - Engaging the Younger Generation 00:20:39 - Team Dynamics and Store Revamps 00:22:00 - Community Events and Holiday Activities 00:23:27 - Navigating Buying and Trade Shows 00:29:09 - The Unique Nature of Menswear Trade Shows 00:30:29 - Hiring and Retaining Staff 00:32:12 - Challenges Faced in Oregon 00:37:00 - Transformative Customer Experiences 00:40:14 - Addressing Challenges and Future Planning 00:46:11 - The Importance of Made in America

    50 min
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5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Join award-winning entrepreneur Terresa Zimmerman as she explores independent retail success across the United States. After founding Wood Underwear® in 2012, Terresa discovered her passion for Main Street retail businesses that form America's economic backbone. Each episode features US retail owners and industry experts sharing proven strategies, overcoming challenges, and building thriving local businesses. Get actionable insights, connect with fellow American retailers, and discover success stories that make Main Street matter.

Information

  • Creator
    Terresa Zimmerman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Terresa Zimmerman
  • Show Website
    Main Street Matters