The Retail Whore

Michelle Sherrier
  • 4.9 (46)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Retail Whore by me, Michelle Sherrier: a podcast of stories and lessons from a life in retail. After decades spent in the retail industry, I’ve seen and done it all. Join me every week as I interview people from all walks of retail, the service industry, the wholesale gift industry, and more. We’ll talk about what drives them, the things they love, and some of the biggest lessons they have learned along the way. Brace yourself for The Retail Whore, a show that entertains and educates!

  1. 6D AGO

    EP 235: BUILDING CONNECTION THROUGH BEAUTY, WELLNESS & RETAIL WITH JACQUE LEONARD

    Jacque Leonard is the founder and CEO of Roux Collective, a boutique salon, spa, and retail destination in Paso Robles, California. With more than 30 years of experience in the beauty industry spanning sales, marketing, retail, and behind-the-chair culture, she has built a business rooted in both connection and curation. Jacque believes retail is deeply personal — it is not just about what people buy, but how they feel when they walk through the door. Through Roux Collective, she brings together beauty, wellness, fashion, and heartfelt hospitality to create an experience that genuinely impacts people’s lives. In this episode, Jacque shares the real story behind building a multi-dimensional business that blends salon, spa, and retail into one powerful customer experience. From taking risks and backing herself when funding wasn’t guaranteed, to navigating growth, hiring, and redefining what retail looks like—this is a masterclass in intuition-led business and staying true to your vision. We are doing our first-ever open call! You can submit your store or favorite store to be on the podcast because every store has a story behind it! Go to theretailwhorepodcast.com, click on SUBMIT YOUR STORE, fill out an easy form and we’ll see you on the mic! What’s inside:  How Jacque transitioned from sales rep to salon + retail owner—and why backing yourself matters  The power of experience-driven retail (and why connection will always outperform transactions)  Lessons in hiring, culture, and protecting your business vision at all costs  Mentioned In This Episode: Website Instagram Support the show

    1h 23m

  2. APR 22

    EP 234: REBUILDING RETAIL THROUGH RESILIENCE AND COMMUNITY WITH MEREDITH MILLER

    After over a decade working in advertising agencies on both Madison Avenue in NYC and in Los Angeles, Meredith turned her passion for marketing to retail marketing and merchandising when she and her husband Michael purchased the historic Fair Oaks Pharmacy in 1990. Together they restored it and added the iconic soda fountain which became an instant success along Route 66 and the site of a host of numerous television and movie shoots. After selling the Pharmacy in 2005, she created her own jewelry line, Pokerchip Girl, which was a smash success in many Las Vegas casinos and nationwide. She also spent a few years working as a Strategic Marketing Consultant to the California Gift Show. In 2010 Meredith and Michael bought Webster’s Community Pharmacy in Altadena, CA. As with The Fair Oaks Pharmacy, the goal was to restore and revitalize this neighborhood independent pharmacy to its former glory days by adding a versatile gift and fashion accessory boutique, along with updating the pharmacy to include state of the art technology. In 2014, Meredith Miller expanded her footprint and opened Meredith M, a trend-friendly women’s apparel and fashion accessories boutique. The business received numerous accolades, but Meredith made the decision to close the doors in 2019 due to the changing landscape of the apparel industry. Meredith Miller is committed to filling a void in the community marketplace, contributing to the local economy and to the revitalization of the North Lake Avenue Corridor in Altadena, CA. Meredith has created multiple community programs including Fancy Food Truck Fridays and is a regular promotional donor to Altadena organizations such as Altadena Heritage, Altadena Historical Society, Altadena Chamber, Altadena Guild, Pasadena Humane, Young & Healthy and more. Giving back to the community with her time and talent is of equal importance to her. Meredith has been a board member of the Pasadena Humane Society as well as the Vice President and President of the Altadena Chamber of Commerce. Meredith recently served as a Board Member at Young & Healthy, Pasadena; and currently as a Marketing Committee Member at Pasadena Humane. Meredith also gives back to her profession by writing magazine articles, giving seminars and serving on advisory boards in the Gift Industry. In this episode, you’ll hear how Meredith built, scaled, and rebuilt retail businesses through strategic merchandising, storytelling, and community leadership — including navigating crisis and turning retail into a powerful hub for connection and economic recovery.  What’s inside:  How to transform a traditional retail space into a destination that drives traffic and sales  The role of community in sustaining and rebuilding retail businesses during crisis  Why experiential merchandising is the key to long-term retail successMentioned In This Episode: Website Instagram Twitter Facebook Support the show

    1h 35m

  3. APR 15

    EP 233: DEAD SPACES, FLOOR FLOW & RETAIL REALITY CHECKS

    In this episode, we dive into the real, raw challenges of retail floor planning—from frustrating “dead spots” that refuse to convert, to the strategic shifts required to improve store flow, increase visibility, and ultimately drive sales. You’ll hear a behind-the-scenes breakdown of what actually works (and what doesn’t), including real-life examples from the floor, how customer movement impacts buying behaviour, and why your store layout should always be evolving. We are doing our first-ever open call! You can submit your store or favorite store to be on the podcast because every store has a story behind it! Go to theretailwhorepodcast.com, click on SUBMIT YOUR STORE, fill out an easy form and we’ll see you on the mic! What’s Inside: Why “dead spaces” happen—and how to identify them using your sales dataThe psychology of customer movement (and how poor flow kills conversions)Practical floor planning strategies to increase visibility, traffic, and salesSupport the show

    56 min

  4. APR 8

    EP 232: MASTERING THE NUMBERS & BUILDING A PROFITABLE RETAIL BUSINESS WITH MARGO KOPMAN

    Margo Kopman lives, eats, and breathes all things retail. With over 15 years of retail consulting experience as the President of Project Retail, Margo is extremely passionate about inspiring clients with her vision and authenticity when tackling the complex business of the independent retailer. She believes that you can achieve the highest levels of success if you work hard, believe in your dreams, and stay focused on results. She grew up in a family that instilled a strong work ethic and a character built on integrity. Soon after graduating from Southern Methodist University, she followed her dreams and opened Byrd, a contemporary women’s boutique in her hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. As an owner & buyer of an independent retail store, she understands the ins and outs of the business, having experienced it firsthand. Margo’s passion for the science of retail-led her down the path of consulting independent retailers like herself. Because of her ability to simplify complex data & analytics paired with her strong critical thinking skills, she coaches her clients to maximize the opportunities while facing the challenges head-on. Margo embodies the skill set and the drive for success needed in the independent retail world of today. In her free time, you can find her soaking up the Los Angeles, CA sunshine. She loves being outdoors, surfing, cooking, traveling, and spending time with family & friends. Margo is committed to the pet rescue movement through animal rescues and shares her loving home with her little white dog, Bubbie. In this episode, we dive deep into the numbers behind retail success—breaking down open-to-buy, inventory strategy, and the real reason many stores struggle with cash flow and profitability. What’s Inside:  Why open-to-buy is the key to controlling cash flow and inventory How overbuying, underbuying, and over-assorting are quietly killing your sales  The truth about reports, sell-through, and making smarter buying decisionsMentioned In This Episode: The Project Retail Instagram Facebook Twitter Support the show

    1h 37m

  5. APR 1

    WHAT THE ASD SHOW REVEALS ABOUT RETAIL TODAY — SHELF TALK WITH CO-HOST SUSAN ESAYIAN

    In this episode, Michelle and Susan recap their experience at the ASD Las Vegas trade show, sharing what makes it different from traditional markets and why it can be a valuable supplemental resource for retailers. They also explore creativity beyond the store through The Artist’s Way, and dive into a mix of thoughtful and unexpected questions that reveal real merchandising lessons, personal stories, and behind-the-scenes retail insights.  Ask Michelle and Susan for Shelf Talk! Michelle and Susan will be co-hosting an episode every month! We’re diving into all things design, display, and merchandising—and we want to hear from you! Got a question? Submit it by going to theretailwhorepodcast.com, clicking on SHELF TALK, and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Let’s talk shop and bring your ideas to life! What's Inside: 1. Key insights from the ASD Las Vegas trade show and how it fits into a retail buying strategy  2. A conversation on creativity in retail inspired by The Artist’s Way  3. Honest merchandising lessons, mistakes, and real behind-the-scenes storiesSupport the show

    1h 14m

  6. MAR 25

    EP 231: ROLLING THE DICE ON MAHJONG AND WINNING IN RETAIL WITH JAMIE CARL, EMILY BUTLER AND MISTY STACHEL

    Jamie Carl is the Owner + Founder of Serge + Jane in Mpls, MN, a Lifestyle Boutique featuring Men's, Women's, Kids, Pets, Vinyl, Home + Gifts in a 3 story shop (4 including an open air rooftop where they host fashion shows, trunk shows, pop-ups + always a DJ + dance party). She spent 15 years at Target Corporation across Merchandising, Buying, and Marketing before leading the Internal Events Team, producing everything from Board Meetings to 10,000 person National Team Meetings with guest speakers, musicians, and fashion shows. She later stepped away to focus on family while fine-tuning her vision for the shop. In this episode, Jamie shares how she translated large-scale event expertise into immersive in-store experiences. Misty Stachel is the founder and owner of 85 Local, a boutique that blends locally made goods with unique, high-quality finds while supporting small businesses. With a strong focus on curation, merchandising, and community, she creates an elevated and inspiring shopping experience through events, vendor partnerships, and thoughtful displays. In this episode, Misty shares how she leverages local makers and trends to drive engagement and customer loyalty. Emily Butler is the co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Karson Butler Hospitality Co. and the visionary behind the historic Ah Louis Store in San Luis Obispo. She has reimagined the 150+ year old shop into a hospitality-driven retail experience, blending curated gifting with community initiatives like The Bell Society and Mahjong Social Club. With nearly two decades in event design and brand strategy, she brings a unique lens to modern retail. In this episode, Emily shares how hospitality and storytelling can transform retail into a space for connection. In this episode, Jamie, Misty, and Emily break down how modern retailers are evolving beyond traditional selling into experience-driven spaces that build community, increase foot traffic, and create long-term customer loyalty through events, merchandising, and intentional in-store strategy. What’s Inside:  How retailers are using Mahjong and events to drive foot traffic, community, and repeat visits  The real economics behind workshops, classes, and in-store experiences (and where profit actually comes from)  Practical ways to start small with experiential retail—from setup and staffing to product strategy and partnerships Mentioned In This Episode: Oh My Mahjong Mini Mahr Bo & Mei Jamie Carl  Facebook Sergeandjane.com Serge and Jane on Instagram Mahjong Montage - wholesale tiles + gaming pieces, decor, apparel and more Gumball Poodle - socks Soiree Sisters - napkins + gifts  Misty Stachel 85 Local on Instagram 85 Local on Facebook Emily Butler  Instagram Ah Louis Store Karson Butler Hospitality Co. Support the show

    1h 8m

  7. MAR 18

    EP 230: MASTERING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE IN RETAIL WITH MEGHAN WAGNER

    Meghan Wagner is the owner of The Go Girl Shoppe, a unique retail store located in Mebane, NC. She began her entrepreneurial journey in 2012 with a mobile shop on wheels, offering a curated selection of home décor and gifts. In 2014, she opened a brick-and-mortar location in Raleigh, NC, and after 8 successful years, relocated to a larger store in Mebane in 2019. As a local to Mebane, Megan wanted to bring a little happiness to the corner of downtown, with a shop that constantly evolves with new décor and seasonal items. The Go Girl Shoppe prides itself on offering one-of-a-kind pieces that bring a smile to customers’ faces and foster a sense of community. Megan believes in the importance of relationships and connections, ensuring that every customer feels like they are walking into a place where they belong. Whether you're entering as a stranger or a longtime customer, Megan and her team are dedicated to making everyone feel like family. In this episode, Meghan shares how she built a thriving retail business rooted in connection, creativity, and customer experience—along with the real behind-the-scenes of running a store through every season. We are incredibly grateful for everyone who listens to and shares this podcast! If you’ve found value in our episodes and want to help us keep creating, we’ve made it easy through Buy Me a Coffee. Any contributions from $5 up to $200 help cover the real costs of podcasting—editing, hosting fees, and everything else that goes into bringing you quality content. It's a way for you to invest in the conversations and topics that matter to you. Head to buymeacoffee.com/retailwhorb, and as always, thank you for your continued support!  What’s inside: How to create a loyal customer base through genuine relationships and community-buildingSmart merchandising, buying strategies, and adapting to trends while knowing your customerCreative ways to drive sales through in-store experiences, events, and storytellingMentioned In This Episode: Episode 206: Creating Connection and Community through Retail with Meghan Instagram Facebook Go Girl Shoppe Support the show

    1h 24m

  8. MAR 11

    EP 229: THE POWER OF SCENT AND MEMORY WITH TORI DAHL

    Tori Dahl’s passion for scent began when she was a little girl growing up on three acres in the Texas hill country. In the spring, Mountain Laurel would bloom with fragrant purple blossoms. On Saturday mornings she would wake to the sound of her father mowing the lawn and open her window to breathe in the scent of freshly cut grass mixed with Mountain Laurel. Years later, that scent still triggers memories of comfort and home. Smell and emotion are stored in our brains as one memory. This is why fragrance has the powerful ability to influence our mood and well being. With a background in business, design, and home decor, Tori understands the importance of curating beautiful spaces not only through art and furnishings but also through fragrance. In 2019 she began developing a line of home fragrances and perfume. Her collection is built around custom blended signature scents made with carefully selected ingredients. Each fragrance is thoughtfully named to reflect the emotion or feeling it evokes. The signature fragrances Love, Clarity, Refuge, Shine, Serenity, Escape, and Tranquility are available in wax melts, linen and room sprays, reed diffusers, and perfume. With every breath, her hope is to help people reconnect with meaningful memories while creating a beautiful atmosphere within their homes. In this episode, Tori shares the story behind her fragrance brand and the inspiration that came from childhood memories, creativity, and a passion for designing meaningful spaces. She discusses the process of creating signature scents and how fragrance can shape the emotional experience of a home. We are doing our first-ever open call! You can submit your store or favorite store to be on the podcast because every store has a story behind it! Go to theretailwhorepodcast.com, click on SUBMIT YOUR STORE, fill out an easy form and we’ll see you on the mic! What’s Inside This Episode Why scent and memory are so strongly connected in the brainThe process behind creating custom signature fragrancesHow fragrance can transform the mood and atmosphere of a homeMentioned In This Episode: Instagram The Dahl Farmhouse Website Support the show

    1h 28m
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Trailer

4.9
out of 5
46 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Retail Whore by me, Michelle Sherrier: a podcast of stories and lessons from a life in retail. After decades spent in the retail industry, I’ve seen and done it all. Join me every week as I interview people from all walks of retail, the service industry, the wholesale gift industry, and more. We’ll talk about what drives them, the things they love, and some of the biggest lessons they have learned along the way. Brace yourself for The Retail Whore, a show that entertains and educates!

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Sherrier
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    243
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Retail Whore
  • Show Website
    The Retail Whore

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