Sorry, It's Discontinued: Retail Therapy

Hilary

Sorry, It’s Discontinued: Retail Therapy explores the history, nostalgia, and human side of retail. Together, we revisit what retail used to be, talk honestly about what it’s like to work the floor today — from Houston and beyond — and imagine how the industry can grow and change for the people inside it. Through solo episodes and candid chats with our retail family, we share the stories and passion that keep this world alive. For anyone who’s ever worked behind the counter or loved a store like home. Have a seat. New episodes every Thursday.

  1. 1D AGO

    Retail Loyalty vs Reality

    What happens when loyalty… isn’t enough? In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the reality of retail in 2026—where years of dedication, consistency, and care can be overlooked in a moment. Retail isn’t just about sales. It’s early mornings, late nights, restocking, cleaning, building relationships, and showing up for people day after day. For many, it’s a career built over decades—serving thousands of clients and creating meaningful connections along the way. This episode honors the “retail warriors”—the men and women who have given 20, 30, even 50 years to the industry—while also shedding light on the emotional impact of sudden change and the evolving nature of retail today. Because at the end of the day…  stores don’t survive because of systems—  they survive because of people. 🔗 RESOURCES & SUPPORT If you or someone you know needs support or wants more information, here are helpful resources: ⚖️ Employment Support Texas Workforce Commission  https://www.twc.texas.gov U.S. Department of Labor  https://www.dol.gov Equal Employment Opportunity Commission  https://www.eeoc.gov 🧠 Mental Health Support Psychology Today  https://www.psychologytoday.com BetterHelp  https://www.betterhelp.com Open Path Psychotherapy Collective  https://openpathcollective.org 📣 CALL TO ACTION If this episode resonated with you, have a seat, hit follow, and share it with someone who might need it 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    20 min
  2. APR 2

    Fragrance Then vs Now: What Changed?

    In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the evolution of fragrance—from the rich, layered scents of the early 1900s to today’s fast-moving, trend-driven launches. From Guerlain and Coty to the creation of Chanel No. 5 and the rise of aldehydes, this episode looks at how perfume became more than scent—it became identity. Today, fragrance is more accessible than ever. From department store counters and Sephora fragrance walls…  to immersive boutiques like The Scent Room, Krigler, and Tijon…  to learning scent through programs like the Institute for Art and Olfaction… Fragrance has become something we can all explore, experience, and even create. This episode is about memory, connection, and the scents that stay with us. ✨ What fragrance takes you back instantly? Have a seat, hit follow, and join the conversation. 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    23 min
  3. MAR 26

    From Sneaking Makeup to Beauty Leader: Suqura’s Story

    In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, I sit down with my friend Suqura to talk about her journey through the beauty industry — and how it all started long before the counter. From watching her mom get ready in the mornings to secretly wearing makeup through middle and high school, her love for beauty was rooted in confidence, transformation, and self-expression. We take it back to our days working together at the CHANEL beauty counter and talk about how her career has evolved — from luxury retail to her current role with Charlotte Tilbury as a Sales and Artistry Account Coordinator. From her time as a Business Manager at Nordstrom to her continued freelance artistry, Suqura shares the moments that reminded her why she fell in love with makeup in the first place. This episode is about more than beauty — it’s about confidence, creativity, and finding your purpose in the industry. Have a seat, hit follow, and join us. Makeup page: @suquramua 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    48 min
  4. MAR 19

    My Krigler Boutique Experience

    There are moments that remind us why shopping in person still matters—and this is one of them. In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary shares her experience at the Krigler boutique inside the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston, where luxury felt less about price and more about storytelling, craftsmanship, and human connection. Founded in 1904, Krigler is a historic niche fragrance house known for iconic scents worn by figures like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and John F. Kennedy—each fragrance carrying a story of its own. Hilary also shares her favorite scent, Lovely Patchouli 55, and reflects on what makes a truly meaningful in-store experience. ✨ Hit follow and have a seat. 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    15 min
  5. MAR 12

    Beauty, Artistry & Martin Vain

    In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Texas-based makeup artist Martin Vain to talk about how he first got into the beauty industry and the career path that followed. From early inspiration watching his mom get ready to discovering artistry through drag makeup and beauty videos, Martin’s passion for makeup started young. That passion eventually led him into the retail beauty world, working with stores like Ulta, Sephora, and Nordstrom and brands including NARS, Natasha Denona, and Charlotte Tilbury. Hilary and Martin talk about his journey behind the counter, the evolution of his career as a makeup artist and educator, and what it takes to keep your passion alive in the beauty industry. Have a seat, hit follow, and let’s get to know Martin. @theartistmartin 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    56 min
  6. MAR 6

    What Defines Luxury for You?

    Luxury used to feel like an experience — the storytelling, the ritual, the moment behind the counter. But today, luxury is more accessible than ever, and the experience has changed. In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary reflects on what luxury once meant to associates and clients alike, how storytelling created value behind the counter, and how accessibility, global growth, and modern shopping habits may be reshaping what luxury feels like today. Plus, Hilary shares a discontinued favorite she still misses — Tom Ford Traceless Matte Foundation — and a new discovery she’s loving: Ilia’s Limitless Mascara. So when was the last time you bought something that felt like a moment… not just a purchase? Have a seat, and let’s talk about it. 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    11 min
  7. FEB 26

    Retail Therapy Check-In — With Phaedra & Tiffany

    Welcome to our first Retail Therapy Check-In — With Phaedra & Tiffany. In this episode, I’m joined by two incredible women for an honest conversation about the realities of freelancing in retail — navigating workplace culture, setting boundaries, and addressing “mean girl” dynamics in the beauty industry. We talk about retail leadership, emotional labor behind the counter, and what it takes to support your own mental health in high-pressure store environments. Have a seat, hit follow, and join us. 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    59 min
  8. FEB 19

    Leading with Authenticity — Tiffany’s Retail Journey

    What does authentic leadership in retail really look like? In this episode, I sit down with Tiffany to talk about her retail journey — from veterinary technician to beauty roles at Sephora, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue. We discuss how she grew into leadership, the pressure of working behind the counter, and what it means to lead with heart in today’s retail industry. This is a conversation about retail leadership, career growth, and the community that keeps stores going. Hit Follow. Have a seat and join us. 💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here! Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show. You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode. This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle. Thank you for being here 💄   the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com Connect with me:   Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued   Listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧 Want to share your story or suggest a topic?   Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story" New episodes every Thursday #SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife

    52 min
5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Sorry, It’s Discontinued: Retail Therapy explores the history, nostalgia, and human side of retail. Together, we revisit what retail used to be, talk honestly about what it’s like to work the floor today — from Houston and beyond — and imagine how the industry can grow and change for the people inside it. Through solo episodes and candid chats with our retail family, we share the stories and passion that keep this world alive. For anyone who’s ever worked behind the counter or loved a store like home. Have a seat. New episodes every Thursday.