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Crystal Vilkaitis

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Rooted in RetailRooted in RetailNot Just Another Mastermind: What Makes IndERA So PowerfulWhat does it really mean to be part of a thriving business community that understands the retail grind? In this bonus episode, Crystal Vilkaitis reveals the perks members get when they join IndERA—and it’s so much more than just another business mastermind.From staying ahead in the ever-evolving retail landscape to unlocking exclusive access to tools, resources, and strategy, Crystal walks you through the six foundational pillars that set Indera apart from other business groups.If you’re craving real-time business support, a strong network, and tangible growth in your digital presence—this episode...2025-06-0542 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailTransforming Your Retail Strategy This 2025Join the Rooted in Retail Mastermind: Resilient Together--Are you spending your time and energy on what really matters for your retail business? In this solo episode, Crystal Vilkaitis dives deep into the essentials of modern retail marketing, customer connection, and creating unforgettable in-store experiences. Crystal also shares inspiration from attending the National Retail Federation, offering fresh perspectives on customer service, team adaptability, and creating demand for your store through meaningful connections. If you're ready to show up for your customers and your business, this episode is for you! [2:26] Why “show...2025-01-2655 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailBusiness Lessons I’ll Take Into 2025 with Crystal VilkaitisJoin the Rooted in Retail Mastermind: Resilient Together--Welcome to the final episode of Rooted in Retail for 2024! It’s just me, Crystal, flying solo today, and we’re closing out the year with a bit of reflection and a look ahead to 2025. This episode is all about recapping the highs and lows of a year that many of us, myself included, can only describe as weird. We’ll pull back the curtain on some major changes I’ve experienced both personally and professionally, dive into what’s next for Rooted in Retail, and explore...2024-12-2220 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailTransforming Our Brand: From Crystal Media to Rooted in RetailWelcome to this special bonus episode. I wanted to film this because we had some really big news this week. We are now operating as Rooted in Retail, not Crystal Media. We have been undergoing this transformation for some months now behind the scenes and I wanted to take you though the decision process because I think there is a lot you can learn about branding and messaging in your business. I am also sharing with you the plans have have for the future and what you can expect!I'm really excited about what...2024-11-1417 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailSilencing the Inner Critic - Retail Therapy Session with Michelle Smith of Piccolo Mondo ToysIs self-doubt keeping you from showing up the way you want in your business? In this episode, we explore how to move past those mental roadblocks. Welcome to Retail Therapy, a special segment of Rooted in Retail! Today, I’m excited to have Michelle Smith from Piccolo Mondo Toys with us. I've been lucky to know Michelle for years. She not only creates a fun experience for kids but also inspires global awareness through her unique selection of toys and books. In this episode, Michelle is opening up about challenges I know many retailers face. If y...2024-10-1743 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailThe Future of Retail with Crystal VilkaitisWelcome to a milestone episode of Rooted in Retail—episode 100! I’m thrilled to have you here for this special celebration.In today’s episode, we’re doing things a bit differently. My COO, Pauline Blasetti, will be turning the tables on me as I take on the Resilience Round—the rapid-fire Q&A I usually ask my guests. You’ll get to hear my answers at the end of the episode.But I’ve also gathered some of my favorite responses from past guests to the question: What do you think t...2024-08-2538 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailHow Retailers Can Use AI to Save Time and Money with Crystal Vilkaitis and Patrick KeiserIf you're part of the Rooted in Retail community, you already know how much I love using AI to supercharge your business. The world of AI is evolving so quickly, and today, I’m thrilled to share an exclusive webinar replay hosted by Patrick Keiser!Patrick is from Heart on Main Street, an incredible nonprofit dedicated to helping independent retailers thrive in their local communities. Heart on Main Street hosts a monthly webinar series that brings together independent retailers and community organizations with top industry experts to share insights and strategies for business growth....2024-06-301h 02Rooted in RetailRooted in RetailThe Art of Delegating: Finding the Who, Not How, to Grow Your Business (After the Show)In this episode of 'After the Show,' host Crystal Vilkaitis discusses key takeaways from a previous episode featuring guest Miranda Heslip, co-owner of Cloud Nine Pajamas. The conversation touches on the importance of social media, email marketing, and ways to earn money passively. Despite the interest in passive income strategies, Crystal shifts the focus to the power of determining 'Who, Not How' in business, emphasizing delegation, strategic outsourcing, and utilizing resources like the book by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy. She shares personal experiences and insights on how letting go of specific tasks can fuel business growth and...2024-04-0316 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailWhat retailers can learn from Coffee Shops: After the ShowIn this episode of 'After the Show', host Crystal Vilkaitis discusses various topics related to retail growth and challenges, focusing on insights drawn from a conversation with Andrew and Claire Bowen, authors of the bestselling book 'The Daily Grind'. Through exploring the importance of being famous for something in your retail business, tips on checking profits weekly, and strategies for driving foot traffic, the episode offers actionable advice for retail store owners. Also covered are ideas for adding a coffee element or a popup shop to enhance customer experience and foot traffic, hiring for both culture and skill, and...2024-02-2927 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailGenerational Shopping: Insights and Inspirations - After the Show with Crystal VilkaitisIn today’s after-the-show we are diving deeper into some of the ideas that I discussed with Nicole Linebach in episode 52 of Rooted in Retail. I emphasize the importance of using data to understand consumers and share ideas for keeping up with changing buying behaviors, such as surveying audiences, getting the right information, and creating unique in-store experiences that will allow you to connect with your customer. I also offer advice on finding inspiration in unexpected places like galleries, travel, street fashion, photography, and food trends, and I encourage listeners to step outside their industries for fresh ideas....2024-01-2635 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailIncreasing E-commerce Success: After the Show with Crystal VilkitisIn our second episode of 'After the Show' for 'Rooted in Retail', I am sharing insightful tips for increasing the success of your e-commerce stores, drawing from this week’s conversation with Josh Orr of Capital Commerce. We dive deeper into website design, brand messaging, product photography, and return policies. Join the conversation in our Facebook Group ‘Rooted In Retail”[00:00] Welcome to After the Show[03:22] Grab the Transformational challenge before the end of January[04:15] This week on Rooted in Retail[05:31] Don't shy away from ph...2024-01-1831 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedMaking A Difficult Decision About Crystal UncorkedIt’s episode 100!I remember starting this podcast like it was yesterday. I was so excited. I had been wanting to do it for years and we finally did it. And then people gave me feedback and they loved it and they were tuning in and it was just so fun. And then it got challenging and I took a couple of breaks. And recently I have been thinking about where we going with this show and what are we doing. I've had a lot of people ask me what does success look like for CU...2024-01-1007 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailFuture-Proof Your Store: From TikTok Trends, Holiday Marketing Tips and AI in Retail*Originally Aired on The Retail Whore Podcast* Get ready for a dynamic conversation with Michelle Sherrier owner of MC Design Collaboration and The Retail Whore Podcast Host, and social media expert and host of Rooted in Retail, Crystal Vilkaitis, as they unpack the intricacies of retail in the digital age. They explore the influence of social media and AI on the industry, share holiday marketing strategies, and discuss the balance of work and personal life. So much is discussed, you're going to get a lot of value from this episode!You'll...2023-12-101h 07Rooted in RetailRooted in RetailLakeFront Property, Speed Bumps, and Other Merchandising Need To Knows with Georganne BenderLakefront property—yep, every retail location has some. Along with speed bumps, these are some of the most powerful, money making spots in your store.Georganne Bender of Kizer and Bender is a consumer anthropologist, keynote speaker, author, and consultant who has helped tens of thousands of businesses in retail and countless other industries since 1990. During our conversation, Georganne explains how the store transformations she has been a part of have been all about layout, often not changing more than the first 12 feet. You have to hear advice for checkout counter location and a great ti...2023-11-261h 02Rooted in RetailRooted in RetailStaying True to the Authentic You with Russ JonesFirst things first, if you aren’t watching this episode, head over to YouTube so you can see Russ’s amazing suit!You can tell by looking at him that former retailer and long-time home and gift rep Russ Jones nails personal branding. Russ’s flair for Broadway, his dazzling suit, and his passion for retailers are part of his authentic story. In this episode, we’re in person at the Las Vegas Market, where Russ gives retailers a tip on how to walk the market to build THEIR story.Straight from the mouth of...2023-11-1934 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedDreams, Regrets, and Taking Your ShotIn this episode of Crystal Uncorked, I’m sharing a recent experience I had on stage at Build Your Brand - Live! Out of the 300 super connector mastermind members, I was one of 10 who was asked to be on stage to share my experience in the program.And while I shared about how much my life has changed since I made the decision to invest in myself through the program, I also seized the moment and shared with a room of 600+ people that my biggest dream was to host my own studio talk show. Th...2023-11-1523 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailBehind The Scenes Of A Dream with Kristin Lenz of White Arrows HomeBefore opening White Arrows Home in August 2020, Kristin Lenz had no retail or business experience. Instead, she refers to herself as an innately creative dreamer. As you listen in, you will see just how true that is! Kristin shares the behind the scenes story of how her Instagram blog and lifestyle brand became the store it is today, just three years later.When you’re opening a retail store for the first time, it can be hard to know when to hire and who to hire. White Arrows Home was open for three weeks before Kr...2023-11-1257 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailIt’s Time To Be Seen with Jen GottliebWhat if you stopped hiding behind the YOU, you think everyone wants to see and show the world who you really are? This is what speaker, author, and friend Jen Gottlieb says it means to be seen. BE SEEN is her new book, available now and full of resources, tools, and tips for anyone.  But today we’re taking Jen’s incredibly transformative advice and applying it to you, retailers!I know that many retailers hold themselves back because they don’t feel perfect. Jen shares something that is so true and will put a stop to...2023-11-0557 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailSustainable Sensory Awareness For Wellness This Holiday Season with Dr. Nicole VillegasOkay, before we get going...  let out a big sigh! Notice how you feel? In this episode, Dr. Nicole Villegas is explaining Sensory Awareness and how something as simple as a sigh can impact your vagus nerve and bring you to a calm and collected state.As retailers, you are creative beings. Likely aware of how your products affect the senses of your customers. But what about you? By supporting your sensory awareness and your sensory experience and using the tools Nicole shares today, you can move yourself through the stress cycle. Reducing y...2023-10-2953 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailWalking Through The Fire with Patricia NorinsIf you are feeling stressed, burned out, overwhelmed, or in just general disarray, this one’s for you!As we head into the holiday season, things might be challenging. My mentor, friend, and returning guest, Patricia Norins is sharing her story of burnout, how she overcame it, and tools you can actually use to support yourself. So how do you walk through the fire and get to the other side? Take a step back. This is something we come back to over and over in the episode. Just really take time to pause, fa...2023-10-2249 minRooted in RetailRooted in Retail5 Steps to Beat Holiday Induced Stress and Burnout with Dr. Michelle WolfordHow are you supporting yourself and your health as you dive into the busy holiday season? Too often retailers find themselves burned, drained, and stressed in the midst of the happiest time of the year.My personal doctor of nearly a decade, Dr. Michelle Wolford, is with me to share 5 steps you can put into action to change your health to not only support you in Q4 but the rest of your life.Techniques - Dr. Wolford shares a great morning routine to get your days started off right: Wake up, Organize your...2023-10-1540 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailSell More in the Holidays and Beyond with Dawn Grooters of Broken Vessel SalesAs retail heads into a busy holiday season, live from Las Vegas Market, Dawn Grooters of Broken Vessel Sales joins me to help you prepare.There is a common theme in our discussion today: relationships and connection = MORE sales. Dawn shares tips to reach customers by standing out with events, gift wrapping, open houses, and the lost art of phone calls.You can use phone calls to personally invite your loyal customers to events, check on abandoned carts, and get to know their needs. The more you know your customers, the more you know how...2023-10-0822 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedWhat does the future hold? Taking You Behind the Scenes of Crystal UncorkedI have a confession to make. I love it when podcasters show us behind the curtain. I think it's very relatable when we can hear what businesses are going through, their thought process and what led them to make certain decisions. And so that's what we're going to be doing in today’s episode.So let's cheers and dive in![2:49] What is happening with Crystal Uncorked - hint we are going to be sharing more stories![5:12] At Crystal Media we are looking at our operations through the lens of “10X is...2023-10-0436 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailSocial Media Transformation: Overcoming Fear and Resistance for Your Business with Michelle SmithWhen I first saw Piccolo Mondo on social media, you would rarely, if ever, see the face of owner Michelle Smith. Now that she has done the work, changed her mindset, and is doing it afraid,  and she has seen the results.Michelle felt nervous, vulnerable, and afraid to show up on a livestream for her customers. But she took the leap. With advice, research, and the support of her friend, she started filming Toy Talk Tuesdays. These lives have become wildly successful, with the replays reaching more than Michelle ever thought possible. Now, with t...2023-10-0144 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailFrom Hobby to 6 Figures with Kelly Gunn of Part-Time PickersVintage lovers, hobbyists, retailers... Listen in!Kelly Gunn is the owner of Part-Time Pickers, an online vintage retailer! What started out as a fun hobby transformed into a 6 figure business. Kelly’s success didn’t happen by accident; she has a course teaching exactly how she did it, and in today’s episode, she is dropping some of her secrets!You know I am all about the power of social media, and that is exactly where Part-Time Pickers grew into what it is. Kelly shares how to get off the content creation struggle bus an...2023-09-2445 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailHow to Get a Waitlist with Beth Rich of Mix it Up Home & GiftWhen you finish this episode, I think you’ll agree with Beth Rich’s new nickname “Brilliant Beth”. Five years ago, Beth bought Mix It Up Home & Gift; now she has TRIPLED sales in the last four years. Another shocking key to her success...  averaging 70 store events a year!Beth is fortunate to have two stores that thrive in a resort downtown area that participate in dozens of events yearly, which add to her sales, but she has a super unique take on a private event…laundry night.These nights are actually called ‘Holiday After...2023-09-1743 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailEvolve Replay: “The Most Human Brand Wins” with Mark SchaeferIt’s your lucky day. Today, my Rooted in Retail listeners get an Evolve Exclusive. Mark Schaefer of Schaefer Marketing Solutions shares business stories, branding examples, and insight that will help you attain that human touch you need to succeed in today’s business landscape.It’s time to look at your customers as more than just the people buying your product; they are the heroes and the marketers. Mark shares that ⅔ of marketing actually occurs without the business owner but instead through customers via social media, influencers, testimonials, reviews, and word of mouth. The...2023-09-101h 18Rooted in RetailRooted in RetailRetail and Family: Advice, Tips, and Smart Ideas with Jen Komaromi of Jenny K GiftsNestled into a neighborhood shopping center in El Cerrito, CA, are Jenny K. Gift Shop and Well Grounded Tea & Coffee, both owned by Jen Komaromi and her husband.I got the chance to chat with Jen in person at the Las Vegas Market, and having been in business for 20 years, she has some great tips to share.Retailing with your family is a full commitment, but Jen wouldn’t have it any other way. When it comes to ordering products, creating training, menu development, running the books, and all the roles in between, Jen and he...2023-09-0327 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailPlanning for Holiday: Strong Concepts, Storytelling, and WOW MomentsIn this special episode, we recorded Live at the Las Vegas Market. It may be August when this is airing, but as retailers, you know the is coming!The holidays are a big time of year for retailers across nearly all niches, from decorating to gifts.Returning from episode 4 (if you haven't listened to this one yet, be sure to  you don’t want to miss it) is Michelle Sherrier from The Retail Whore Podcast. She is sharing her design, planning, and merchandising expertise when it comes to all things holiday. Do I hav...2023-08-2732 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailTaking the Leap to Multiple Store Locations with AdreAnne TeseneToying around with the idea of opening another location? This is the crash course you need.In just 30 minutes, AdreAnne Tesene and I cover an insane amount of resources, tips, and advice.As the owner of Two Bostons with 7 locations, AdreAnne shares that 7 stores is nothing compared to that first leap of 1 to 2. What factors should you consider when you're opening a second store?Location, Operations, Inventory, Staffing, and Marketing... Don’t forget to get your notes out because you don’t want to miss the resources and wisdom for these key f...2023-08-2033 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailUnderstanding The Mystery of Google Ads with Vi Wickam (Part 2)We’re welcoming Vi Wickam back this week, this time to talk all about Google Ads.How do they work? Where should you be showing up? A little secret… The first 3 results in each section of a google search result is a paid ad. You are not going to get those spots if someone else is willing to pay and you aren't. Vi breaks down the landing page of a search results into types of ads: Standard Text Ads (these are your text based ads, strongly related to key words) and Display Ads (thes...2023-08-131h 00Rooted in RetailRooted in RetailBranding for Success with Kaila Piepkow of Dox DesignFirst things first, branding is WAY more than designing a logo. It’s the colors, the fonts, the visuals, and the icons, and at Dox Design, it's the textures and custom patterns too!Kaila Piepkow is the Founder of Dox Design. She is a go to branding professional, creative, and hype gal, and she shares some incredible tips for retailers in this episode.Creating a brand means creating a visual story that resonates with your PCG. These visuals should be able to tell your audience who you are without having to read any accompanying text!! Th...2023-07-3035 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailInventory Management and Planning with Dane Cohen of Management One52% of your business’s cash goes to inventory, making it the most important aspect for success.Creating an Inventory Management plan or an Open to Buy plan is going to not only help you stop winging it at market, but it can also help you understand your customer, your inventory patterns, and start making you more money with maybe even less inventory.Dane Cohen is the Director of Sales and Business Management at Management One, and he is sharing some serious tips and advice for retailers who might be weak when it comes to inventory an...2023-07-2351 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailEvolve Exclusive: Generational Shopping SecretsThe most important thing in retail is… Know. Your. Customers. Today you’re getting an exclusive view of a favorite panel from my 2023 EVOLVE conference: Generational Shoppers. In this panel mediated by Nicole Leinbach, representing Gen X, she is joined by her Gen Z daughter Claire, Millennial Stephanie, and Baby Boomer Sandy. They also discuss our youngest generation and one of the most influential on purchasing, Gen Alpha—today’s babies and young children. These generations have diverse buying power, paths to purchase, and other factors that can help retailers understand how to make a sa...2023-07-161h 03Rooted in RetailRooted in RetailBranding for Success with Kaila Piepkow of Dox DesignFirst things first, branding is WAY more than designing a logo. It’s the colors, the fonts, the visuals, the icons, and at Dox Design it's the textures and custom patterns too!Kaila Piepkow is the Founder of Dox Design. She is a go to branding professional, creative, and hype gal and she shares some incredible tips for retailers in this episode.Creating a brand is creating a visual story that resonates with your PCG. These visuals should be able to tell your audience who you are without having to read any accompanying text!! This vi...2023-07-1335 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedThe EVOLVE Experience: Trials, Triumphs, and TransformationIn this episode, your host Crystal Vilkaitis walks you through her journey of hosting her first-ever EVOLVE business conference.Crystal navigates the ups and downs of event planning, discussing everything from unexpected logistical hurdles to the pursuit of ticket sales. Despite the challenges, she managed to successfully host the conference at the Gaylord in Denver, Colorado. Crystal shares the joy of reaching the milestone of selling over 100 tickets, affirming that every challenge faced was indeed a stepping stone to this accomplishment.Next, Crystal takes you into the heart of the EVOLVE conference, an event marked...2023-07-1237 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailPodcasting, A New Avenue for Reaching Your PCGPodcasting is a growing and popular platform. People listen in their cars, while they're cooking or cleaning, while they’re exercising—anytime they can passively consume content! What an opportunity to reach your customers!I talk a lot about your PCG on this show; that’s your Perfect Customer Group, defined by all sorts of elements that make them your ideal client and audience for what you have to offer. When you have a podcast, you get a chance to create long form content that showcases you, what you have to offer, your authority in your niche, and mo...2023-07-0938 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedWine and Wisdom: Embracing the 'Why Not Me?' MantraPodcast Launches, Past Lives, and Personal Growth…oh my!!Hey there, welcome back to Crystal Uncorked! In this episode, Crystal chats about her inspiring trip to a Dallas conference, her struggles and successes, and her surprising interests in past lives and numerology—all over a glass of 2022 Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc.Crystal shares the journey of launching her top-rated podcasts, overcoming self-doubt with the empowering mantra ‘why not me?’, and rediscovering her drive after the challenging 2020 lockdowns. Her reflections on personal growth and success, especially her experience becoming a millionaire at 38, truly show that amazing things h...2023-07-0530 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailInsider Tips to Rock Social Media with Steph Bechard of Crystal MediaHow lucky are you!? As a retailer, you get to do social media and connect with your customers.Steph Bechard runs our Crystal Media Insider group, and a lot of our chat today focuses on the reframing of your mind. Social media is not something you HAVE to do; it’s something you GET to do.When it comes to creating engaging content, Steph’s tip is to keep it fun, casual, and human. Just be YOU. Small businesses have this incredible opportunity to get personal in a way that big box stores don’t.2023-07-0241 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedFear, Urgency, and Being Multi-Passionate - Catching Up on Crystal UncorkedJoin me, Crystal Vilkaitis, on this thrilling journey of self-discovery in my podcast, Crystal Uncorked. In this episode, we're exploring some crucial themes like fear, urgency, the beauty of being multi-passionate, and above all, the power of consistency and accountability in achieving our goals. I'll be sharing some exciting updates and a peek into how I'm navigating my own journey. Oh, and did I mention a big commitment? You'll have to listen in to find out what it is. I am thrilled to have you accompany me on this exciting path towards growth and authenticity. So hit play, and...2023-06-2831 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailAll Things Retail Real Estate with Patricia Norins of Blue ButterflyIf you have a brick and mortar location, real estate is really important for your retail business!Patricia Norins is my personal mentor, but she is also a retail real estate expert and cofounder of Blue Butterfly, where they bridge the gap between retailers and property owners. We talk about common mistakes like becoming emotionally invested in a space outside of your budget or not working with an attorney.Patricia also saves you time AND money with a list of red flags, including termination rights and rent escalation clauses. 2023-06-2543 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailSlow and Steady Wins the Race with Jennifer Johnson of True Fashionistas“Never ever feel like you’ve arrived.”That’s just one piece of awesome wisdom from Jennifer Johnson. Jennifer is the owner of True Fashionistas, Florida’s largest lifestyle consignment store.Jennifer shares her slow and steady race to success. There is nothing that will provide better results than time, commitment, and consistency.When it comes to social media, Jennifer has her consistency set. She shares a couple tricks that set her up for social media success all month. Batching - Did you know you don’t have to take each pi...2023-06-1839 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailStructuring and Planning for Social Media: Find Your FaceInstagram, TikTok, Facebook... wherever your business is showing up, you need to be leveraging video content and a real human face to represent your store! Humanity is what sets you apart from your big box counterparts.Who that face is, is up to you. It can be just the owner, the team, a combo of the two, or even customers and influencers.In this episode, I get into the pros and cons of each type of social face and how YOU can figure out what is right.One of my favorite “Case Studies”, if y...2023-06-1126 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailBalance and BurnoutHey Retailers!It’s my birthday week!  I’m showing up today with a minisode and a little riff on what’s on my mind AND what I've been hearing in my conversations with retailers and entrepreneurs.Balance. The sweet divide between work, play, and rest.Why is it SO hard to find the balance? And when you do, are you feeling chronic guilt when you aren't working?Here's my golden tip: Get clear on what’s important.What matters...2023-06-0412 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailAI for Retailers: An Unexpected Yet Invaluable Silent EmployeeI’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, you need to be leveraging Chat GPT for your retail store.Google CEO, Sundar Pichai said, “AI is one of the most important things humanity is working on. It is more profound than, I dunno, electricity or fire”. So I’m telling you, this is BIG.As an independent retailer, you might be wondering how Artificial Intelligence is relevant to your retail store. So I’m getting into it: What is Chat GPT? Why is it important? And how do you use it? You can...2023-05-2837 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailAccessing More Freedom and Flexibility in Your Retail Business with Pete Mohr, Simplifying Entrepreneurship Retail CoachOkay, you’re not alone if you started your business so you could design your schedule and live the life you want. But what do you want? Are you getting it yet?Pete Mohr is a small town retailer, podcaster, and the retail coach behind Simplifying Entrepreneurship. He is sharing what it takes to get what you want by aligning and assigning accountability.Are you looking for remote access? Or just less hands on in the day to day so you can make that hokey game or spend more time with your family? Everyone's needs an...2023-04-2343 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailLevel Up Your Customer Communication with Nick McHenry of OneShop RetailOkay Retailers, Here’s a big question to consider: How are you getting customers in your door? And how are you converting that traffic into sales? Maybe you’ve got it going on over on social…but you’re missing MAJOR opportunities via email and text. Nick McHenry is the founder of OneShop Retail, a service that streamlines content creation and customer engagement for brick-and-mortar retail stores like you!There can be some serious stigma around emailing and texting your customers, but we are here to help you get it right. From how many ema...2023-03-2639 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailAll Things Visual: Creating a Merchandising Moment with Michelle Sherrier, The Retail WhoreWhen it comes to visual merchandising Michelle Sherrier of MC Design Collaboration and host of The Retail Whore Podcast is the go-to! In this episode, she shares her impressive wisdom, insight, and eye for creating the best visual outcome in your retail stores.Don’t let your store and inventory get stale, give often and intentional resets to your store space. With MC Design Collaboration, Michelle works with her clients for quarterly, whole space resets but she recommends smaller refreshes with an injection of new inventory to happen monthly. She helps retailers create stories and merchandising moments by...2023-03-1941 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailHuman Touch in a High Tech World, Standing Out in RetailSmall businesses this is YOUR time! You don’t want to miss this conversation with Mark Schaefer, social media marketing expert, author of 10 incredible business and marketing books, and Keynote Speaker at my conference, EVOLVE this spring.Mark brings his decades of experience and lens for the future of marketing to talk about his newest book, Belonging to the Brand. The old ways of marketing are out and if you don’t adapt and evolve…you will be left behind. Now more than ever people are craving community and connection. And your company can be...2023-03-1242 minRooted in RetailRooted in RetailSocial Media Made SimpleWelcome to the first episode of Rooted in Retail, where I, Crystal Vilkaitis of Crystal Media, am sharing all my experiences, tips, and tricks to guide retailers to success! We’re wasting no time and diving into my favorite topic, something I’ve been working with since 2007…Social Media. During my time working with retailers over the last decade, I’ve seen a lot of resistance when it comes to social media. This resistance comes from the ever-changing landscape of the industry, the learning time for each new app and its features, and the fear retailers have of putti...2023-03-0541 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedMy Decision Making FormulaGet ready for a super exciting announcement! But, before I get into that I want to back up and share some behind the scenes on how it all came to be and my formula and process for making decisions, like this.Recently I was taking part in a mastermind call, and the speaker was a producer of a ton of popular TV shows. And if you’re a listener, you know I have a dream to have my own show. After getting my chance to ask some questions, the speaker really dialed in on what it means to...2023-02-2226 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedLive From the Las Vegas Market: Inside Sales and Relationship Building with Dawn GrootersWe’re live at the Las Vegas Market. Dawn Grooters started her company Broken Vessel Sales in 2020 when she noticed a need between retailers and wholesalers, creating and working with inside sales and making connections. She works with wholesalers, vendors, and rep groups, and even helps retailers.As the expert in all things sales, Dawn offers some great tips for small businesses that might be experiencing slow and small conversions in traffic. All her advice really comes down to what she calls the top business strength of the year, Building Relationships. If you want to see more sa...2023-02-1518 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedPart 2: Top Trends and Predictions for Social Media and Digital Marketing in 2023If you’re wondering where the first 9 trends in this list are…stop and go back to episode 70 to check out part 1! Let’s get to it. 10. ChatGPT (as seen in episode 69): an AI that provides ideas for copy and design, lists, assistance, and leverages technology to save time.11. Influencer Marketing: becoming more popular among businesses, and it involves increasing usage by partnering with the right influencer in the right way.12. Streaming Ads: available on TV and movie apps and music services, and they actually allow you to...2023-02-0828 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedA Whimsical Boutique and Business Wisdom with Grace KangAfter talking with Grace Kang, I can’t wait to check out her boutique Pink Olive at any of the amazing locations she shared about on the show today.Grace opened up Pink Olive at its first location in the East Village of Manhattan, New York 15 years ago. She now has another NYC location, as well as one in Cold Water, New York, and Little Rock, Arkansas. If you tune in, you’ll hear all about how she ended up in the adorable up-and-coming neighborhood of SoMa, Little Rock with her husband Matt.Not only does...2023-02-011h 00Crystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedPart 1: Top Trends and Predictions for Social Media and Digital Marketing in 2023In this part 1 episode I  am sharing my 9 MUST DOs’ in the social media and digital marketing world. Some you might already be doing, some you might be on your list to try, and some might seem totally crazy… but I promise you businesses who are doing any of these 9 tips are going to see some success this year. So let’s dive in. Increase in video usage: Leverage video to connect with customers-Short-form video with Reels and TikToks-Live streamTiktok: Powerful algorithm, especially locally with FREE reach. Change your mindset...2023-01-2534 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedA Chat AI That Will Help You Save Time and Stand OutHave you heard about Chat GPT? I am coming to you from Salt Lake City, Utah for an Outdoor Retailer Snow Show. Paula and I are spending some time between the show getting really focused on branding and messaging for this year, and some special goals and projects we’ve got in the works. But I had to come on here and talk to you about this powerful new tool, Chat GPT.Chat GPT is an AI that can answer questions, write essays, articles, blogs, scripts, poems, emails…you name it. It is an incredibly dive...2023-01-1822 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedA First Class Experience with Texas Charm with Eva HortonJust outside the city of Austin, Texas sits the beautiful property of Flat Creek Estate. Eva Horton the owner of this winery and entertainment property joins me to share her inspiration and vision for this incredible place.Flat Creek sits on 80 acres of beautiful vineyards, gardens, outdoor patios, and curated spaces. The winery features a tasting room and a 5-star restaurant, with plans to build lodging to extend the visitor's experience. When you hear Eva talk about this place, you can’t help but get swept away. Italian flavors and feelings culminate in the vibe of...2023-01-1147 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedA Ritual for Accountability and Your Best New Year YetHappy New Year! It's 2023, and after what felt like a long, long December it is finally the new year! I hope you had a great holiday season with family, and friends, and doing what you love to do! If you're anything like me though, you're ready to start the new year with big goals, and important changes, and ready to see success. I am sharing a few rituals, one old and one new, that are helping me plan and attain my goals for 2023.Annual New Year Ritual: Word of the YearEvery year I...2023-01-0423 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedEmbracing “JOMO” Are you guilty of scheduling and planning things more because you're afraid to miss them than because they’re actually something you need or want to do? I know I am. I get caught up in FOMO. But recently when I had a full schedule and cancellations were bringing me so much relief, I was reminded of JOMO, The Joy of Missing Out.   Too often we get caught up in our schedules and places we think we should be and things we think we should do. We get tied to our obligations and responsibilities even in times we sh...2022-12-1422 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedLeveraging Your Business with LinkedIn with Viveka von RosenWhether you think you need to be using LinkedIn or not… Viveka Von Rosen says, you do. Viveka is the CVO of Vengreso. Vengreso started out with sales prospecting training programs and has now created an incredible text expander software for business owners and entrepreneurs, FlyMSG. So many people are not using LinkedIn the way they should be, I’m guilty of this too. But Viveka brings up something so important, something she calls “Google Juice”. If a prospective client or business relationship googles you or your business, what are they gonna see? Is your old, outdated, unappeal...2022-12-0750 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedTrust the Process and Trust YourselfLet’s get real…I haven’t been trusting myself. This year I’ve invested a lot in myself, $57,000 to be honest…no small chunk of change for me. I’ve joined masterminds, professional development, programs, live events, you name it. And time and time again…I’m hearing the same information. And I know that I’ve learned things that are priceless and things that I might not see a return on right away. But when I’m hearing things I already know, I have to ask: What am I doing with this? How am I using this knowledge? 2022-11-1618 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedCreating a Business and a Life You Love with Susan NegenSusan Negen is the other half of WhizBang! Retail Training and my dear friend and industry partner. I previously had her other half Bob Negen on the show for episode 43. As WhizBang! Celebrating 23 years, Susan shares some great tips and lessons on creating both a business and a life that you love. Not only does Susan run an incredible business, but she also does it with her spouse! She shares how they don’t just make it work, they thrive together. For partners working together, it’s important that they be aligned with their thinking and plan to gr...2022-11-0955 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedHumor and Heart from Paul de la GarzaPaul de la Garza brings with him over 25 years of leadership experience. He is a dear family friend, my "adopted" father, and my business coach. He has a wealth of knowledge and a great sense of humor, both of which he lets shine in this episode.Paul and I discuss this great analogy for your various journeys, whether it be in life, business, relationships or all of the above. So often you find yourself needing to know the end goal or the final destination that you're not even on your way. For me, I was stuck in...2022-11-0243 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedEmbracing What Makes You "YOU"I love talking about authenticity and people’s superpowers and their importance whether we’re marketing online or just simply showing up. I value creativity and I have never been the kind to stick to what everyone else is doing. Quick story: back in college, I went to a Halloween party with a friend of mine and everybody was in costumes. My friend dressed up as a cute sexy cat – there were a lot of sexy cats, nurses, and teachers at that party by the way - and there I was as a bag of jellybeans, covered in bri...2022-10-2624 minCrystal UncorkedCrystal UncorkedAnything Is Possible with Vi WickamVi Wickam has been my web guy for over a decade. He is a digital expert, an incredible fiddler, and a dear friend to me. Every time I have a crazy idea or question when it comes to my website, Vi is right behind it saying anything is possible. He believes you truly CAN do anything, as long as you are willing to put the time, effort, (and money) into it.Are you worried your website isn't getting the traffic you need to be successful? Vi explains that the majority of websites get a shockingly low rate...2022-10-1955 min