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

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. Jul 9

    How Le Bon Marché Revolutionized Benefits for the Retail Associates

    In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary explores the fascinating history of Le Bon Marché in Paris and how it revolutionized not only shopping, but employment and associate benefits in retail. Under Aristide and Marguerite Boucicaut, workers were offered benefits that were almost unheard of in the nineteenth century, including housing, meals, education, and retirement support. From the opportunities and limitations faced by employees—especially women—to the rise of department stores in both France and America, this episode looks at how one store helped shape the future of retail and the lives of the retail associates who worked there. Because retail was never just a job. 🎙️ Have a seat 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

  5. 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

  6. Jun 25

    First Retail Job, Lifelong Lessons | Behind the Counter with Yani Nufio

    What starts as a first retail job can lead to a career you never expected—and friendships you'll cherish forever. In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary sits down with longtime friend Yani Nufio to talk about her journey from a teenager who fell in love with makeup to building a successful career in retail, finance, and mortgage lending. Yani shares how watching her mom put on makeup sparked her passion for beauty, why her first job at Victoria's Secret changed her life, and how working in the brand's newly launched beauty department introduced her to the world of fragrance, customer service, and retail sales. Her talent eventually led her to the Lancôme counter at Dillard's, where she and Hilary first met—a friendship that has lasted for years. Together, they reflect on the excitement of working retail, the confidence gained behind the counter, the relationships built with customers, and how the skills learned in retail continue to shape careers long after leaving the sales floor. Today, Yani brings that same passion for helping people to her work as a mortgage lender, proving that the heart of great customer service never changes. Whether you've worked in beauty, fragrance, fashion, department stores, or simply remember your very first retail job, this conversation is a reminder that retail is about so much more than making a sale—it's about people, purpose, and the moments that stay with us forever. Connect with Yani: 📱 Instagram: @mortagegirl_yani 🏡 Mortgage Services: https://s1l.com/loanofficer/yani-nufio/ If you've ever worked behind a counter, helped a customer, or fallen in love with retail, this episode is for you. 🎙️ New episodes every Thursday. 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

  7. Jun 18

    What If the Gossip Is Wrong?

    We spend more time with our coworkers than almost anyone else in our lives—so why is it often easier to talk about people than talk to them? This week, Hilary explores workplace drama, gossip, assumptions, and the stories we create about one another. Through honest reflection, she shares why curiosity may be the most powerful tool we have for improving communication and creating healthier workplaces. Because sometimes the story we're telling ourselves isn't the truth at all. 🎙️ New episodes every Thursday 💬 Have a seat, hit follow, and join the conversation. 📱 Follow @SorryItsDiscontinued on social media. ✨ Because retail was never just a job. It was the people. 💋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. Jun 11

    Onward and Upward | Behind the Counter with KingMega Fitness

    This week, I'm joined by Mega of KingMega Fitness. We met by chance at Macy's while talking about our shared experiences in retail, and I quickly realized he had a story worth sharing. Growing up in a military family, Mega learned the value of hard work early. From working retail while attending Southern University in Baton Rouge to serving seven years in the Army, earning both bachelor's and master's degrees, and building his own fitness business, his journey is one of growth, discipline, and determination. Join us as we talk about retail, military life, entrepreneurship, fitness, and the lessons that have shaped the man he is today. Have a seat, grab your coffee, and join us for this inspiring conversation with Mega. Follow Mega: Instagram: @KingMega832 TikTok: @KingMega.Fitness 💋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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