Sorry, It's Discontinued: Celebrating Retail Associates, Retail History, and Community

Hilary

Welcome to Sorry, It's Discontinued — a podcast about the human side of retail. Hosted by Hilary Nichols, a former luxury beauty manager with more than 25 years of experience in retail, beauty, and fragrance, this show explores the journeys, experiences, and stories that shape retail associates and the communities they serve. Through conversations with retail associates, beauty advisors, fragrance specialists, makeup artists, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and retail professionals, we highlight the paths that led them to their passions, the challenges they've faced, and the lessons they've learned along the way. In solo episodes, Hilary shares honest reflections on the reality of retail from the perspective of retail associates — the good, the bad, the funny, the frustrating, and the unforgettable — while celebrating the brands, products, stores, and history of retail that made the industry special. Whether you're a current retail associate, a former retail associate, or simply someone who loves retail, retail history, retail nostalgia, beauty, fragrance, and customer service, this podcast is a place to connect through shared experiences and stories. 💄 Have a seat, hit follow, and join me as we explore the heart, humor, and humanity of retail. 🎙️ New episodes every Thursday.

  1. 2d ago

    Bloomingdale’s: The Big Brown Bag, Splash & the Magic of Retail

    What made Bloomingdale’s one of New York City’s most iconic department stores? In this nostalgic episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary looks back at the history of Bloomingdale’s—from its beginnings in 1872 and the legendary 59th Street flagship to the Big Brown Bag, beauty counters, fashion, movies and pop culture. Plus, a trip back to the 1980s and Splash, when watching Daryl Hannah as Madison walk through Bloomingdale’s sparked a lifelong love of NYC, department stores and retail nostalgia. And this week’s discontinued favorite: The Body Shop Dewberry Perfume Oil, the beloved ’80s and ’90s fragrance that disappeared—and is finally back! What store or shopping memory instantly takes you back? Links mentioned in this episode: 🛍️ Bloomingdale’s Official Website: https://www.bloomingdales.com/ 💜 The Body Shop Dewberry Perfume Oil: https://us.thebodyshop.com/products/dewberry-perfume-oil 🎙️ Sorry, It’s Discontinued — because retail was never just a job. 💋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

  2. Aug 13

    American Girl and How Retail Becomes Part of Our Family Story

    What happened to American Girl since the days of those magical catalogs? In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary looks back at the history of American Girl—from Pleasant Company and the original historical dolls to Mattel, the evolution of the stores, and what it’s like to work for American Girl today. She also shares a personal memory of taking her daughters to the American Girl store with her mom and how a simple retail experience became part of her family story. Because sometimes retail isn’t just about what we buy—it’s about how it made us feel and the memories we take with us. Which American Girl doll did you have—or always want? What store holds a special memory for you and your family? 🎀 Explore American Girl: https://www.americangirl.com/ 💋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

  3. Aug 6

    Can Record Stores Help Save Retail? The Record Store Comeback: Why We Still Want to Shop for Music

    Episode DescriptionRemember when buying music meant spending an hour inside a record store, flipping through CDs, vinyl and cassettes, talking to employees and discovering your next favorite artist? In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the rise and fall—and surprising comeback—of record stores and physical music. From Sam Goody, Tower Records and the CD era to Napster, Spotify and streaming, we look at how the way we buy and discover music completely changed. We’ll also talk about why Gen Z is rediscovering vinyl records and CDs, and how independent record stores could play a role in the future of music and retail. Could our love of music nostalgia, physical media and real-life shopping experiences help bring the record store back? Because sometimes the best discoveries don't come from an algorithm—they come from the person behind the counter. What music store do you remember shopping at—and what album, cassette or CD takes you right back there? Share your memory with me on Instagram or TikTok @sorryitsdiscontinued. If this episode brought back a little nostalgia, follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued, share the episode with a fellow music lover, and go support your local record store. ❤️ 🎶 Support Local Music Stores in Houston & Sugar Land ZT Records – First Colony Mall Half Price Books – Sugar Land https://www.hpb.com/store?storeid=HPB-044 Sig’s Lagoon Record Shop – Houston https://www.sigslagoon.com/ 💋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

  4. Jul 30

    The Mall and Store Escalator: Retail’s Most Dramatic Coworker

    Retail workers have a love-hate relationship with mall escalators. When they’re working, they bring shoppers directly to our departments. When they stop, every associate is suddenly expected to become an escalator engineer. And when children, strollers, loose shoelaces and long dresses get too close, working nearby can become surprisingly stressful. In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the history of the escalator, the humorous reality of working beside one and the frightening day an escalator caught her five-year-old son Max’s Croc. This isn’t about fearing escalators—it’s about respecting them. Stand in the center of the step, keep shoes and clothing away from the sides, hold little hands and remember that an escalator is still a powerful moving machine. Enjoy the ride—but respect the escalator. 💋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

  5. Jul 23

    The Teenagers Keeping Retail Alive| Why Retail Associates Need to Look at the Teenage Shopper Differently

    In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary explores a growing trend that many retail associates are noticing: teenagers are becoming some of today's most passionate and knowledgeable fragrance shoppers. From fragrance enthusiasts armed with TikTok recommendations and YouTube reviews to young customers saving their birthday money for their next fragrance purchase, Generation Z is changing the way we think about retail. But are we giving these future customers the chance they deserve? Hilary shares her experience helping two young fragrance lovers whose curiosity, respect, and appreciation became a powerful reminder that every customer deserves to be seen as an individual. She reflects on how retail associates can help educate, inspire, and welcome the next generation of shoppers while building the future of our stores and communities. This episode is dedicated to the future fragrance collectors, connoisseurs, and enthusiasts—including Hilary's nephew Parker—who remind us that a shared passion can bring people together at any age. Have a seat and let's talk about the future of fragrance, retail, and the young customers who may help keep both alive. 💋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

  6. Jul 16

    Work-Life Balance for the Retail Associate: Does It Even Exist? Retail Schedule Struggles

    For many retail associates, the schedule can feel like it controls your entire life. Will your vacation be approved? Can you make that doctor's appointment? Did your shift change again? Can you attend that birthday party, family event, or concert you've been looking forward to for months? In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary explores the reality of retail scheduling, work-life balance, burnout, and why so many retail associates feel like they have little control over their own time. From schedule changes and inventory nights to vacation planning and "schedule Tetris," this episode highlights one of the most stressful—and least talked about—parts of working in retail. Because the issue isn't really the schedule. It's about autonomy, trust, and having enough ownership over your time to have a life outside of work. 💜 Have a seat and let's talk about what really happens behind the counter. 💋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

  7. Jul 9

    The History of Le Bon Marché: Retail Workers, Benefits & the Birth of Modern Retail

    What was it really like to work at one of the world's first modern department stores? In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary explores the fascinating history of Le Bon Marché in Paris and how this legendary French department store helped revolutionize not only the way people shopped, but the way people worked. Under Aristide and Marguerite Boucicaut, Le Bon Marché became a pioneer of modern retail while offering employee benefits that were remarkable for the nineteenth century, including housing, meals, education, savings programs, and retirement support. From the opportunities and limitations faced by women in retail to the rise of department stores in France and America, this episode looks at department store history, retail workers, employee benefits, shopping culture, and how one store helped shape the future of modern retail. Because retail was never just a job. 🎙️ Have a seat and join the conversation. Explore Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche: https://www.lebonmarche.com/en 💋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

  8. Jul 2

    Celebrating One Year of this Podcast | Thank You

    Over a year ago, on June 5th, 2025, I hit publish on the very first episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued. At the time, I had no idea where this journey would lead. I wasn't sure if anyone would listen, but I knew there were stories that deserved to be told—the stories of the people behind the counter, the communities built inside stores, and the lessons we carry with us long after we leave retail. In this special anniversary episode, I'm taking a moment to reflect on the past year, express my gratitude to every guest and listener who has supported this podcast, and celebrate the retail professionals who keep these stores going every day. From beauty advisors and fragrance specialists to sales associates, managers, stock teams, and everyone in between, this podcast has always been about the people who make retail unforgettable. Over the past year, I've had the privilege of hearing incredible stories, sharing memories, and connecting with people from all walks of life. Through every conversation, one thing has become clear: retail was never just a job. It was friendships, mentorships, life lessons, challenges, victories, and moments that shaped who we are. To every guest who trusted me with their story, and to every listener who has joined me on this journey—thank you. Your support means more than I can put into words. Whether you've been here since Episode One or you're just discovering the podcast, I'm so grateful you're here. Here's to celebrating the people behind the counter, preserving retail history, and continuing these conversations in Year Two. 🎙️ Connect with the podcast: Website: sorryitsdiscontinued.com Instagram: @sorryitsdiscontinued TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued Email: sorryitsdiscontinued@gmail.com ✨ What's one thing retail taught you that you'll never forget? 💋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

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About

Welcome to Sorry, It's Discontinued — a podcast about the human side of retail. Hosted by Hilary Nichols, a former luxury beauty manager with more than 25 years of experience in retail, beauty, and fragrance, this show explores the journeys, experiences, and stories that shape retail associates and the communities they serve. Through conversations with retail associates, beauty advisors, fragrance specialists, makeup artists, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and retail professionals, we highlight the paths that led them to their passions, the challenges they've faced, and the lessons they've learned along the way. In solo episodes, Hilary shares honest reflections on the reality of retail from the perspective of retail associates — the good, the bad, the funny, the frustrating, and the unforgettable — while celebrating the brands, products, stores, and history of retail that made the industry special. Whether you're a current retail associate, a former retail associate, or simply someone who loves retail, retail history, retail nostalgia, beauty, fragrance, and customer service, this podcast is a place to connect through shared experiences and stories. 💄 Have a seat, hit follow, and join me as we explore the heart, humor, and humanity of retail. 🎙️ New episodes every Thursday.

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