Shows
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: HIRE THE EXPERTSubtitle: People Buy What They UnderstandSummary:Katie shares her upcoming plans for a Chicago trip to visit clients. She and Amanda brainstorm about art classes they could co-host at Amanda’s shop. Amanda recounts a whirlwind week of events: hosting teenagers from the School of the Blind for a hands-on project, a bridal shower that didn’t quite go as expected, and then welcoming 20 Master Gardeners the very next morning for a talk! They also catch up on Amanda’s HR friend, who’s launching a pop-up/mobile HR business offering onboardi...
2025-08-1934 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: SLUG PARTYSubtitle: Grouch on the CouchSummary:This week, Katie and Amanda discuss their love of the Marco Polo app and scheming ways businesses could use it too. Katie’s hand-painted cards just landed in Amanda’s shop on a “MADE” table sprinkled with moss and glitter magic, and guess what… one sold on the very first day! They spill a little tea on the joy (and the “oh boy” moments) of working with certain team members. Finally, they chat about the world of collecting. Is it fun or does chasing the rarest treasure suck...
2025-08-1234 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: FINAL ANSWERSubtitle: Go AwaySummary:Katie is considering a simple but symbolic change: swapping her Facebook cover photo from a picture of her family to one of her art supplies. Amanda reflects on her own process of “refocusing the lens,” both personally and professionally.Katie talks about her father’s recent funeral, contrasting the compassionate customer service from the funeral home with the cemetery staff that completely ignored their requests. Amanda discusses a challenging garden consultation where she struggled to communicate ideas in a way that truly resonated with the client. Katie...
2025-08-0529 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: SOFT LIFESubtitle: So many other things just listen to itSummary:Katie shares her experience at a local "pick and paint" event at a cut flower farm, where customers picked their blooms and she painted them on the spot. She also talks about what it’s like to scale up her artwork (literally) and the life lessons art has taught her, like the value of restraint and leaving room for white space. Amanda did a massive two-day solo plant installation that required a return visit but that’s OK because she likes coming back t...
2025-07-2933 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaONE WOMAN COLLECTIVESubtitle: Stop, Collaborate and ListenSummary:Amanda is excited to get some help from an acquaintance starting an HR/operations consulting business. It’s coming at the perfect time! Amanda shares a story about her ideal client and how she prefers collaborative relationships. Katie suggests structuring services with clear tiers: Option A or Option B, to make boundaries and value more obvious. Amanda also shares a recent success: she offered an unsolicited quote on a landscaping project, and it worked! Now she’s wondering if that approach might be worth repeating. And fina...
2025-07-2225 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: NEVER AGAINSubtitle: Every Kind of TiredSummary:Katie shares the emotional weight of the past year and the recent loss of her father. A comforting message from Ben, “you don’t ever have to deal with that again,” gave her an unexpected sense of peace. Amanda opens up about wanting to attend the funeral but getting derailed by a major miscommunication with a client that had real financial consequences, saying, “it would have been funny if it wasn’t so important to her.” They also discuss Greg McKeown’s Essentialism Planner and the liberating idea...
2025-07-1526 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: BRING THE GONGSubtitle: Eventually We Get to the PointSummary:Amanda is making dunce caps for Cultivate to stop people from calling their businesses small. The second gong has also arrived. The two discuss their love for roadside attractions and then eventually get to the point. Or, at least, a point. A big part of today’s convo revolves around minimum orders and what local and independent businesses can do, and what producers are going to NEED to do in order to serve them. Shortly before the end Amanda drops a truth bomb and they sa...
2025-07-0847 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: BELL OF SHAMESubtitle: Setting ExpectationsSummary:In this episode, Katie and Amanda DIG into (see what we did there) what they really want for their business and what they’re ready to let go of. They discuss growth goals and have a few clarity moments. Also, Katie finally declares victory over the poison ivy in her yard, thanks to one of Amanda’s Actually Useful Tips™. Amanda shares an awkward Mother’s Day moment involving customer weirdness, and the Bell of Shame makes its mysterious debut. Want to know what it is? You’ll have to list...
2025-07-0132 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: CAMANDA IN CHIEFSubtitle: Have it Your WaySummary:Amanda’s Zoom name is now “Camanda in Chief,” (HILARIOUS!). In this episode, Amanda and Katie talk newsletters, self-worth, and showing up as your authentic self in business. Katie’s latest newsletter inspired Amanda to write hers, and they discuss how their emails aren’t just for marketing. They’re personal, real, and full of places for people to hang on and connect. Amanda dives into why she’s been undervaluing her time (and what she's finally realized about it), while Katie gives a heartfelt shout-out to her busines...
2025-06-2426 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: MAKING SPACESubtitle: The Cost of Doing BusinessSummary:Behind every small business is a human doing their best to hold it all together. Amanda and Katie talk about what it’s like to run a business while feeling completely overwhelmed. Katie shares how she's navigating work as her dad enters hospice care, while Amanda talks about anxiety and the financial gamble of pouring everything into your business and hoping it pays off. They discuss the stress of undercharging and how hard it is to price your labor. Katie points out that people want to...
2025-06-1745 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: Best of Season 1 - What Entertained Us - Part 2Subtitle: Books, Signs and a Great DocumentaryIn this "Best Of" episode, Katie praises the book: The Tree Collectors written and illustrated by Amy Stewart. She also reads part of Amanda's Green Profit article on the power of signage and it's a HOOT! They also discuss funny reels, a Harry Styles sighting at the farmers market, and Amanda's shop ghost. Finally, they unpack the Martha Stewart documentary, and how it changed their perspective on the queen of home and garden.
2025-06-1028 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: BEST OF SEASON 1 - BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTSIn this "Best of" Business Highlights (Part 2) episode, Amanda and Katie share business insights and marketing strategies. Like, did you know if you boost a Facebook post on your iPhone using Apple’s iOS app, they tack on a 30% surcharge? GAH! They also answer key questions like: What should be in your Instagram bio? What’s a quick win you can give people in your emails? And how often should you be sending them anyway? Plus, a reminder to seek advice beyond your peers. Fresh perspectives can make all the difference!The Stuf...
2025-06-0334 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: ACTUALLY USEFUL TIP™Subtitle: Jaunty ElectronicaSummary: Katie and Amanda discuss: what is your time worth? They share jobs they decided to take (or skip) and talk about their upcoming Stealth Workshop/Education Party at Cultivate … you should definitely come! Katie shows off a helpful diagram from her business coach, Meg, on the phases of business and self-care. Amanda talks about how her original business model has evolved into something much different that she originally planned (spoiler: she might need a bigger vehicle soon!). Plus, an Actually Useful Tip™ that has to do with...
2025-05-2737 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: ACTUALLY USEFUL TIP™Subtitle: Jaunty ElectronicaSummary: Katie and Amanda discuss: what is your time worth? They share jobs they decided to take (or skip) and talk about their upcoming Stealth Workshop/Education Party at Cultivate … you should definitely come! Katie shows off a helpful diagram from her business coach, Meg, on the phases of business and self-care. Amanda talks about how her original business model has evolved into something much different that she originally planned (spoiler: she might need a bigger vehicle soon!). Plus, an Actually Useful Tip™ that has to do with using GoDad...
2025-05-2737 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: DITCH, PLEASESubtitle: Toxically PositiveSummary: In this episode, Katie shares her recent diagnosis of polymorphic light eruption (a sun allergy) that’s forced her to rethink her routines and how she moves through daily life. Amanda shares that people often find her scary, when in reality, she’s just CONFIDENT and unwilling to play along with the phoniness that’s so common in retail. They also swap tips about battling invasive plants (Katie’s fighting Poison Ivy, Amanda’s wrangling Goji berries). Finally, the recent tariffs have hit Amanda’s business and she reveals her pl...
2025-05-2035 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: INSOMNIASubtitle: Lose the FilterSummary:Amanda confesses to sending a marketing email in the middle of the night (hello, insomnia). Her results might just change the way you think about email timing! Katie brings two stellar tips to the table: one for making your website work harder, and another that could seriously improve your email popup game. Amanda shares why she's still loyal to MailChimp (hint: NPR had something to do with it), and we find out exactly how much she despises snail mail. Plus, (spoiler alert), we may have theme music...
2025-05-1331 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: CODE WORDSubtitle: PicklesSummary: Amanda brings an interesting customer situation to the table and asks Katie the all-important question: "Is this a pickle?" Meanwhile, Katie has updates on attending the Azalea Festival, her long-awaited newsletter, and a new art class series that she’s taking. Amanda also reveals what she's planning to plant in the raised bed outside her shop, and her choices might just surprise you.Highlights:Is this a pickle?Katie attends Azalea Festival.Katie’s newsletter and the squeegee hunt.Bringing back the bra snap...
2025-05-0632 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: CALLING INSubtitle: Not for EveryoneSummary:Amanda shares highlights from her recent trip to Dollywood: great food, fun coasters (though not quite Disney-level creative inspiration), and an awkward moment of being recognized in public. Katie reveals her roller-coaster coping strategy: shutting her eyes the whole ride…HA! Amanda talks about how her monthly product drops were gaining traction until she dropped the ball (pun fully intended). They also discuss Cultivate, which Amanda lovingly dubs the Queen Mother of all trade shows. Their upcoming workshop there has them fired up, and they hope you'll join...
2025-04-2934 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: TEMPORARY OBSESSIONSSubtitle: Finding a New RhythmSummary:In this episode, Amanda talks about her recent trip to Dollywood and the garden cleanup that didn’t happen. Plus a canceled visit with her friend Andrew that opened up time to catch up on life and work. Katie returns from a heavy family trip only to sprain her ankle, (because of course she did). They discuss burnout, how Katie is redefining her work-life balance, and a coincidental conversation about the new book Garden to the Max… edited by none other than Andrew! It’s a week of...
2025-04-2230 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: BEST OF SEASON 1 - DON'T STOP, KEEP GOINGOur Most Open and Awkward Moments of 2024In this special best of episode, we dive deep into what it really means to be open and awkward, boldly taking up space, embracing authenticity, and choosing to live fully. Seize the moment (carpe diem!) and reject the grind of the billionaire machine. We’re here to remind you: being real is cool, and being real is important. This episode is all about inspiring people, creating community, and making time to actually enjoy being alive. Keep going, keep discovering, and most of all, be big. Because the world needs more of y...
2025-04-1530 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: INBOX OVERLOADSubtitle: Drunk Seed ShoppingSummary: Amanda prepares to close Aster Gardens for a short spring break to visit Dollywood with her family, right when there’s so much to do in the garden and at the store. Meanwhile, Katie announces her departure from A24, the company she co-founded, as she steps away to support a family member facing serious health issues. They discuss managing email notifications, tackling inbox overwhelm, and the very real struggle of decision fatigue. And in a lighter twist, Amanda confesses to a drunken online seed shopping spree. Listen in to find ou...
2025-04-0830 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: MAKE IT MAKE SENSESubtitle: Assumptions, Astrology and AdaptationSummary:Big changes are coming near Aster Gardens! Amanda’s getting two new neighbors: a brow lounge and a boba & smoothie shop. She’s eager to see how they’ll impact her business. She and Katie discuss assumptions and how they impact forecasting and business planning. Katie talks about missing her newsletter (hey, life happens) and how she’s excited to bring it back. They also touch on astrology, belief systems, and Amanda’s new favorite tool, Gmail’s Polish feature. It’s divine!Highlights:A...
2025-04-0131 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: PUT ME IN, COACHSubtitle: Make a Moss MosaicSummary:Amanda is heading to iLandscape after recording, but first, she and Katie tackle a big question …do you have to respond to every message that lands in your inbox? Katie brings up apocalypse gardening (because, hey, you never know), and she also shares her experience reengaging with her business coach, Meg Morrison, who she highly recommends! Finally, this episode is brought to you by Amanda’s Moss Mosaic Kits, because everyone needs to have a moment of creativity.Highlights:Weird Message from Amand...
2025-03-2521 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: BEST OF SEASON 1 - WHAT ENTERTAINED USOur Favorite Finds of 2024In this special "Best of" episode, Amanda and Katie rehash the things that kept them entertained in 2024. They share their favorite books, original art, and must-listen podcasts. You may even hear them touch on sports! Listen up to hear their favorites: what made them laugh, think, and silly things that helped them unwind. Tune in for a great conversation about the fun moments that stood out in 2024.The Stuff at the EndAmanda’s Work Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sho...
2025-03-1830 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: BEST OF SEASON 1 - ESSENTIAL TIPSIf you haven't tuned in yet, this is the episode to start with! We’ve packed it with the best advice from Season 1. It's got everything from social media strategies to POS system insights and must-read business books. Listen up for tips on streamlining operations, boosting social media engagement and getting just plain INSPIRED! This episode has something for everyone. Don’t miss it!The Stuff at the EndAmanda’s Work Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shop.aster.gardensKatie’s Work Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegarde...
2025-03-1133 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: IMPOSTER SYNDROME IS DEADSubtitle: Looking for a UnicornSummary: Katie brings up how important it is to her to have a strong support system as a business owner and how that sets her up for success. Amanda shares her plans to hire a manager for her shop. She wants someone with plant knowledge and steady leadership, possibly from the local junior college hort program. She spills the beans on her recent clothing swap (a bit of a bust) but is looking forward to a community potluck she’s hosting. Amanda also shares creative ways she’s usi...
2025-03-0429 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: I'M FINESubtitle: Action Cures FearSummary: In this episode, Katie opens up about ignoring business fears in hopes they disappear (spoiler alert: they typically don’t). Amanda brings up her money hangups, including her habit of giving discounts to customers she likes. They discuss negotiating pricing with confidence, the importance of creating a welcoming “third place” for community, and how activities help people connect. Amanda shares her experience starting ADHD medication, and they chat about the intimate process of finding the right therapist. It’s a candid & real conversation about growth, both in business...
2025-02-2536 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: COMMUNITY NOWSubtitle: Extra AwkwardSummary:In this episode, Amanda shares a rant about TikTok and how some content feels overly produced, while Katie points out that most garden center owners aren’t content creators, it’s just a means to an end ($$$). They also discuss how Facebook and Instagram have become “pay to play,” with algorithms favoring discovery over showing content to followers. Meanwhile, Katie has been enjoying spending less time on her phone and more time crocheting. Oh, and in a twist of real-life drama, Amanda got her water turned off, You gotta tu...
2025-02-1830 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: SOUP HAPPENSSubtitle: Show Up for Yourself
Summary: Welcome to Season 2 of Open & Awkward where Katie and Amanda are full of inspiration on taking action, embracing change, and nurturing your creative spark! Amanda talks about an experience with a vendor from the farmer’s market and the importance of showing up for yourself. Think about it, great ideas are only as good as the action you take to bring them to life. Katie shares her thoughts on Mel Robbins' new book, Let Them. Together, they discuss the power of taking small steps forward, even when it feels...
2025-02-1131 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 38: EXTRA OPENSubtitle: If you build it, they will come
Summary: In this season finale, Katie shares that she had her first customer service inquiry for her new business. (Do you want a Certified Shopify Online Garden Center? Contact Katie!) Amanda opens up about receiving a firm diagnosis from her psychologist, leading to an in-depth discussion about anxiety and depression medications. Katie and Amanda discuss their hopes and plans for the new year and reflect on the importance of living intentionally. Wrapping up Season 1, Katie and Amanda reiterate the heart of this podcast: middle-aged women navigating...
2024-12-3149 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 37: MEETING OR FIST FIGHT?Subtitle: Concierge Service
Summary: Amanda and Katie watched the new Martha Stewart documentary (have you seen it?) and shared their newfound admiration for the lifestyle icon. Amanda was inspired by Martha's pragmatic, common-sense approach, while Katie enjoyed learning how she used art as an inspiration. This leads to a discussion about the division of housework in their own homes, followed by Amanda's exciting plans for 2025 as she expands her business to include a concierge garden service. Oh, and they talk about gardening too—so be sure to stick around until the end for some aw...
2024-12-2433 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 36: LEAF ITSubtitle: Cultivate Takeover
Summary: Katie and Amanda catch up on everything from tech upgrades to garden chores. Katie shares how she had her fall garden "chop & drop" cleanup with Tami, leading to a discussion on fall cleanup tips and how practices vary by region, (magnolia leaves, anyone)? They reveal how they got to see each other IRL again and share the exciting news about their upcoming speaking engagement at the Cultivate trade show in Ohio with Ben. Don’t miss their session at Cultivate—come see them in action!
Highli...
2024-12-1733 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 35: ROCKS, REWARDS & RETROSubtitle: The Vibe is Nostalgia
Summary: Do you like to get behind trends? Katie talks about her recent trip to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and how the resort there has a very specific vibe. She also observes the resurging popularity of vintage cakes, charm necklaces, and decorative rocks. Amanda notes that certain trends can be thriving in some areas while flopping in others. She also shares how she gave her loyalty program, Magic Beans, a revamp, turning it into a win-win for both her customers and her business.
Highlights:
...
2024-12-1024 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 34: SMALL TALKSubtitle: To Buy or Not to Buy
Summary: Katie and Amanda reflect on their experiences as listeners of their own podcast, realizing they are learning about themselves. They discuss the ongoing thorn in Amanda’s side: what to do when customers linger without buying. Amanda’s perspective sparks a debate with Katie and they unpack what it means to value their time and their customers.
Highlights:
Amanda’s realization.
Speaking and not remembering the brilliant things you said.
Amanda has a more permeable membrane.
Being told what’s wrong wi...
2024-12-0331 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 33: MAD AS A BAG OF CATSSubtitle: Name it to Tame it
Summary: Amanda shares a great tip on how to self-regulate and stop intrusive thoughts that you won’t want to miss. They discuss how Aster Gardens launched a free seed library outside the store featuring Hyacinth Bean Vine (what a cool idea!). Amanda gave Kennedy the entire project to handle, soup to nuts, and she did a great job! Katie talks about how the best teams she works with are the ones where everyone knows their lane and how to drive in it. She also mentions a mistake she made early in...
2024-11-2625 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 32: MAYBE WE'RE CLAIRVOYANTSubtitle: Hell in a Handbasket
Summary:
Katie shares a wild story—did she help someone in need, or was she almost carjacked? It’s hard to say! They discuss the recent hurricanes impacting North Carolina, where Katie resides, and talk about the terrible challenges the community faces. Amanda reveals her exciting plans to close Aster Gardens on Wednesdays to free her schedule for garden consultations. She’s worried about perception but Katie assures her it’s all in how she presents it. Amanda has also decided to streamline her farmers market schedule to late...
2024-11-1925 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 31: DON'T SPOOK THE HORSESSubtitle: Multitasking is a Joke
Summary:
Amanda shares that she created a hilarious secret hiding nook behind the register, perfect for popping out to give customers a little scare! Meanwhile, Katie dishes that Harry Styles recently bought flowers at a local farmers market and was unrecognized by the vendor.—who knew he could go incognito? They talk about the reality of multitasking (spoiler: it’s a joke). Amanda is gearing up for the Market on Canal festival, and they discuss the pros and cons of local events—Katie even recounts a time her fr...
2024-11-1244 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 30: A BANGERSubtitle: Get Off My Lawn
Summary: Get ready for a lively episode as Amanda spills the tea on her latest email marketing adventure—spoiler alert: no one opened it! Katie, the email marketing queen, suggests that it might just be a timing issue and shares her secret hack to reblast it with a catchy new title (did you know you could do that?). Amanda's on a mission to turn readers into buyers, and Katie has a fab idea: a curated drop at the start of each month to offer a little bit of Aster Ga...
2024-11-0533 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 29: SHENANIGAN-ABLESubtitle: Everyone Needs a Couch
Summary: In this episode, Katie visits her friend and fellow horticulturist, Brie Arthur, in Raleigh, NC, where they stop by an art store—much to Brie’s confusion, as she knows plants but not art! Meanwhile, Amanda is busy rearranging Aster Gardens to move the Cash Wrap station closer to the door, allowing customers to see them crafting up front, (FUN)! She also links her online shop to her Instagram, hoping it will boost sales. Together, Katie and Amanda realize they need to create a business checklist for essential task...
2024-10-2934 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 28: WET BULB TEMPERATURESubtitle: You Must be Really Fun at Parties
Summary: Katie shares her Room Portrait Club painting, and Amanda declares that Katie’s art is getting even better! They discuss the Locavore Guide, which is NYC-based, and how all small businesses should promote others in their surrounding areas. Amanda shares an experience where she asks, “Am I the asshole?” (She’s not.) They also talk about the Keith Lee effect, Katie’s upcoming speaking engagement in Grand Rapids, MI, and how to try not to take things personally. Oh, and have you heard of Wet Bulb tempe...
2024-10-2251 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 27: KITTED OUTSubtitle: What you allow will continue
Summary: In this episode, Katie and Amanda open up about their battle scars from some truly awful jobs—think PTSD, but with a side of trauma. Katie is bummed about not being more involved in the public garden industry and wishes public gardens, breeders, growers, and retailers would communicate more. Amanda is rolling out her grab-and-go craft kits, because who doesn’t want an awesome, surprise DIY project? She also rants about small businesses stubbornly sticking with ancient technology—apparently, there’s still a fan club for ancient cash reg...
2024-10-1537 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 26: BUSINESS INCUBATORSubtitle: You don’t have to be everything to everyone
Summary: Katie and Amanda are both enjoying “false fall” which is happening in both their states. Amanda discusses being unexpectedly recruited as a florist (no thanks), which she quickly turns down as her true specialty is promoting sustainability and educating people on living in harmony with nature. She also gives an update on the farmer’s market and talks about her vision to introduce local produce into area restaurants. Katie delves into the importance of setting boundaries, while Amanda contends with a less-than-effective newsletter ghostwriter. And don’t...
2024-10-0836 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 25: STICKYSubtitle: Don’t make your muse pay your mortgage
Summary: Amanda opens up about a potential diagnosis and her lack of anxiety about it. Katie gives a shout-out to Amy Stewart's latest book, The Tree Collectors (seriously, you need a copy!). Amanda also introduces a new recruit to the Cult of Katie, and Katie reminds everyone that her free 15-minute discovery calls are the perfect opportunity to get FREE answers—just come prepared with questions. Katie reads a hilarious excerpt from Amanda’s August Green Profit article, and they elaborate on why retail signage should be engagin...
2024-10-0134 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 24: BEACH PLEASE
Subtitle: Don’t go to the second location
Summary: Katie makes a splash by going swimming at the beach for the first time in two years—despite living there! She discusses the joy of seeing how different people interact, unwind, and make use of the beach. Meanwhile, Amanda is planning a Halloween pilgrimage to Disney World because she loves a good dose of immersive magic! They also talk about the importance of not expanding your business too quickly, staying hands-on in your business, and the unspoken covenant between shopper and shop.
2024-09-2430 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 24: BEACH PLEASESubtitle: Don’t go to the second location
Summary: Katie makes a splash by going swimming at the beach for the first time in two years—despite living there! She discusses the joy of seeing how different people interact, unwind, and make use of the beach. Meanwhile, Amanda is planning a Halloween pilgrimage to Disney World because she loves a good dose of immersive magic! They also talk about the importance of not expanding your business too quickly, staying hands-on in your business, and the unspoken covenant between shopper and shop.
2024-09-2434 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 23: AMANDA GOES SHOPPINGSubtitle: There’s more than one way to skin a cat
Summary: Amanda goes shopping (which she RARELY does), and it literally changes her life. They discuss fun ways small businesses can set themselves apart from competitors, customers browsing without purchasing, and how being your own goofy self is finally becoming acceptable (and celebrated). Oh, and have you tried a cold plunge yet? Amanda gives her review!
Highlights:
The Summer Doldrums.
What Amanda learns from visiting other small businesses.
Greetings and salutations.
What’s negotiable and what’s not wi...
2024-09-1724 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 22: DIRTY LAUNDRYSubtitle: So you wanna write a book?
Summary: Amanda has an awkward encounter with the OTHER Garden Center in town, sparking a discussion about handling communication with people who have differing opinions. They dive into Amanda’s aversion to going with the flow and the challenges of tech not connecting. Oh, and if you are thinking about writing a book you are going to want to listen to this!
Highlights:
Amanda’s interaction with “The OTHER Garden Center.”
Katie dives deep into how to have conversations that are impo...
2024-09-1038 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 21: BUSINESS BESTIESubtitle: All Roads Lead to Marketing
Summary: Katie and Amanda discuss how it's never a good idea to make people feel dumb. Amanda also shares her secrets for keeping audiences engaged during speaking engagements—spoiler alert: it involves SLUGS! They discuss how people love an incentive, reversing the trend of local business loss and how you can actually use AI as your hype man.
Highlights:
It’s too lonely by yourself.
Fear and shame are not good motivators.
Giving talks, engaging people and what’s in it for them.
...
2024-09-0332 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 20: MONEY FOLLOWS PAINSubtitle: Chew on the Left Side of Your Mouth
Summary: Katie has a surprise road trip from Columbus, OH to Wilmington, NC! They discuss how you CAN learn to chew on the left side of your mouth (otherwise known as changing a habit). They also chat about how to get your sparkle back–and how to realize that you even lost it. Plus, they explore the safe feeling in working at a job you know you are good at and how we all need community. Oh, and did you know the Great Lakes are GR...
2024-08-2732 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 19: HOUSE RULESSubtitle: Plot, Plan & Market
Summary: In this episode, Katie and Amanda chat about how Aster Gardens is more than just a store—it’s an experience and an inspiring adventure! They dive into the lessons learned from mistakes, the tricky art of deciding when/how/if to put items on sale, and the importance of continuing to always put things into your funnel. And what exactly is “oldest daughter energy”? You’ll have to tune in to find out!
Highlights:
Applying familiar concepts to promote your business
How, when or do y...
2024-08-2039 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 18: THE SCENIC ROUTESubtitle: Kindred Spirits and Cockroaches
Summary: Katie surprises Amanda with a visit to her store! They discuss Amanda’s creative idea for encouraging support of independent retailers around Aster Gardens. They also chat about the Peter Principle, mind mapping, closing the stress cycle and the positive impact of getting real with people. Oh, and did we mention that Amanda ordered 100 plastic 🪳 cockroaches? Wanna know why? We know you do! Listen now.
Highlights:
The ghost in the machine (or, Amanda’s headphones)
Another fan letter
Katie’s surprise visit to Amanda’s...
2024-08-1344 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 17: CAPITALIZE?Subtitle: Change is doable!
Summary: Katie and Amanda discuss ways of capturing new customers and audiences by changing your package/messaging. They talk about the high open rates of "ooops" emails, developing your brand's personality, and why we ALL DESERVE to have pleasure in our lives.
Highlights:
Shrinkflation and how we can use the concept
Another fan message
Things people will say to Kennedy and not Amanda
Amanda’s customer stats
Oops emails and focusing on your brand and voice
AI Plant Picture Problem and the REAL, co...
2024-08-0634 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 16: ROBUST OUTLIERSSubtitle: Small, potent, amazing, dangerous changes
Summary: Katie and Amanda discuss hiring consultants vs. asking your own staff for their suggestions. They talk about the challenges of running a small, women-owned business, people with a scarcity mindset, how not all traffic is good traffic and the patriarchy fest.
Highlights:
Katie returns from vacation
Katie’s other podcast experience
Hiring a consultant vs. asking your staff
Tyler and Kennedy discuss another plant shop
Amanda’s farmer’s market and car show challenges
Funny people Katie and Amanda follow on Ins...
2024-07-3034 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 15: EVERYONE DESERVES JOYSubtitle: Are you in the fold? You should be!
Summary: Katie talks about the importance of having your physical address on your socials and Amanda shares her adventures with antique finds — complete with unexpected surprises. They delve into the frustrations of Facebook, the untapped potential of TikTok, and the evolving landscape of social media marketing.
Highlights:
Are you a small business using Square? You should be collecting emails!
Put your PHYSICAL address in your socials and make sure your accounts are set up as BUSINESS accounts.
Facebook may be...
2024-07-2348 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 14: TOTAL ANARCHYSubtitle: Fostering company culture
Summary: Brace yourself for candid discussions about setting expectations and the importance of saying NO. They share email marketing strategies and discuss how you can quickly lose your Instagram account, email cadence and segmenting, and mixing up your circuit. Warning: This episode contains more buzz than a cicada chorus!
Highlights:
Are business cards still a thing?
Being authentic in an inauthentic business environment
Amanda uses an annoying customer question to create new business opportunities.
How often should you be sending emails? The answer may...
2024-07-1631 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 13: GUM IN THE MACHINESubtitle: When is it time to pivot?
Summary: Who is stuck in the sunk costs quagmire? Katie share her $150K mistake and why you should still listen to her. Amanda reveals her new yard organization and why she switched from organizing plants by Latin names. (LOL) They also chat calming people the F down so you can help them. And how everyone wants foxgloves, delphinium, and hollyhocks.
Highlights:
Is your POS a POS?
Sunk Cost Fallacy
How making mistakes can make you successful
Amanda’s new signage plan
Gi...
2024-07-0937 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward: Episode 12 – OH HAIL!
Subtitle: There is also some yodeling
Summary: Is intergenerational warfare really necessary? Katie and Amanda say, “No!” They discuss the opportunities they got when they were young lasses growing up and how they get to pass those along to their staff and contractors. They talk more about cringe mountain (The hecklers are all still in base camp. If they’ve scaled cringe mountain they’re not heckling from the other side.)
P.S. Custom neon-esque signs (LEDs) are not expensive anymore, so get one!
Highligh...
2024-07-0227 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 12: OH HAIL!Subtitle: There is also some yodeling
Summary:
Is intergenerational warfare really necessary? Katie and Amanda say, “No!” They discuss the opportunities they got when they were young lasses growing up and how they get to pass those along to their staff and contractors. They talk more about cringe mountain (The hecklers are all still in base camp. If they’ve scaled cringe mountain they’re not heckling from the other side.)
P.S. Custom neon-esque signs (LEDs) are not expensive anymore, so get one!
Highlights:
Ama...
2024-07-0227 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 11: COMMITTEDSubtitle: What you say to yourself matters.
Summary: What would your May self tell your July self? (Especially in the green industry.) This was recorded during crunch time and is airing after the main rush of the season. Katie and Amanda discuss what it’s like to put a body of work into the world - the costs, the benefits, the vulnerability, the growth. For our listeners, your shops and your businesses are a body of work. What does it mean to watch people respond to that?
The other thing we discuss is...
2024-06-2533 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 10: BIG DUMB VACUUMSSubtitle: Imaginary gift certificates
Summary: Amanda gets herself into 437 initiatives. She says she’s not actually ambitious, she just sees big dumb vacuums. How much emotional labor is too much emotional labor in business? Also kind of a lot of swearing.
Highlights:
How do you handle the impossibly busy times of year
Amanda’s Slugs
Being a shop owner
Podcast feedback
Green drinks
Amanda’s imaginary gift certificate pickle
Links:
No links this episode
Pictures:
Jump o...
2024-06-1827 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 9: LOCAL COLORSubtitle: LOOK AT THAT
Summary: Green chilis for everyone! Katie talks about lessons learned from her time in New Mexico, including bathrooms. Can you teach people to be creative?
Highlights:
Katie shows her giraffe birthday gifts from her mom
Discussion about parking
Katie’s trip to San Diego, California and Santa Fe, New Mexico
Business suggestion: get on scenic drive website/brochure if you’re near one
Bathrooms in New Mexico
Spring Sketching in New Mexico - course description and expectations
Discussion about workshops and concepts vs. step-by-step instru...
2024-06-1128 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 8: SEROTONIN FOR MONEYSubtitle: Create a Garden Wonderland
Summary:
Last in the episode but first in Katie's priority list: Check out the GORGEOUS new book "Garden Wonderland" by Leslie Bennett and Julie Chai. Katie gives a review. (And she's real picky about garden books.) Other topics of discussion include big box garden centers vs. indies, Argylle the movie (Katie loved it even though it was technically a flop) and what she learned about creating a sense of discovery for customers, and how everyone with one dollar wants plants.
Highlights:
...
2024-06-0440 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 8: SEROTONIN FOR MONEYSubtitle: Create a Garden Wonderland
Summary:
Last in the episode but first in Katie's priority list: Check out the GORGEOUS new book "Garden Wonderland" by Leslie Bennett and Julie Chai. Katie gives a review. (And she's real picky about garden books.) Other topics of discussion include big box garden centers vs. indies, Argylle the movie (Katie loved it even though it was technically a flop) and what she learned about creating a sense of discovery for customers, and how everyone with one dollar wants plants.
Highlights:
...
2024-06-0440 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 7: CRINGE MOUNTAINSubtitle: Make your art
Summary:
A post-eclipse episode that will still be fun two months later. Katie and Amanda talk about why unscripted social media is important, how Amy Stewart is Katie's Beyonce, and how people who have already summited cringe mountain won't criticize you. The only people who do are still in base camp.
Highlights:
Eclipse Hydrangea videos
Weird art
Katie's dogs
Bingbong
Stretch goals
Links:Amy Stewart: https://www.amystewart.com/
Sookie and Ivy:
https://w...
2024-05-2834 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 6: Adventureland!Subtitle: Wired for Novelty
Summary:
Katie shares her Harry Styles origin story. Amanda brings up the Apple Surcharge when boosting posts from the app and why you might or might not want to boost posts and why if you’re really going to pay money to Facebook, ads are a better bet. Katie and Amanda discuss something actually useful for listeners regarding “convenience fees.” Finally, we talk about the Enshittification of the online world.
Highlights:
Katiesitters
Surcharge on boosting posts on IG and FB through app/via ph...
2024-05-2131 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 5: SPACESubtitle: There actually IS crying in business
Summary:
During episode 5 Katie made Amanda cry, but it was a good cry. Katie discussed how she crawled out of her worst year (personally) of business, 2022, and why you might not want to grow your business beyond a certain point. They talked about taking up space in the world of business, owners vs. managers, and Amanda sang, “This Ain’t Taxes,” a cover of “This Ain’t Texas.”
Highlights:
Owner vs. Manager
Taking up Space
Business is F*cking hard
Katie makes Amanda cry
Beyonce
The Rockettes...
2024-05-1431 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 4: BOG LIFESubtitle: Hoist the Sails (to boost your sales!)
Summary:
When you plant magic beans, what do you reap? (That got super existential super fast. Well, what do you expect when Amanda is taking business advice from alien mediums? Today Katie and Amanda discuss ways they fill their sails (as in boat sails) to fill their sales (as in money). Katie is the queen of taking workshops, while Amanda is the queen of hosting workshops. Yes, that’s related to “sale-ing.” More in the highlights. AND! Pictures are back in the show notes, so clic...
2024-05-0744 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 3: Flop SweatsSubtitle: And why things cost $75
Summary: This one’s mostly about community: local community, community with other business owners, what it means to be a part of one’s community. It’s nearly impossible to summarize an episode, but that’s a pretty good one. However, we also cover pricing psychology, Katie manifesting Harry Styles on the cover of Better Homes & Gardens, how classes help you sell more stuff, and, of course, flop sweats.
Highlights:
Why tech fails are so embarrassing
Hosting classes helps people understand why handmade things c...
2024-04-3043 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Episode 2: I Do What I WantSubtitle: And customers should want that, too
Summary:
Why taking the position "I do what I want" is actually good for your customers, why it is important to take a vacation before and after season, plants are good for business, and more nonsense!
Highlights:
Amanda comes back from a trip to the Epcot Flower & Garden show, and reports on the state of the shop
Good landscaping makes you money! (At least that's Katie's position.)
Gardening style: "I do what I want" and what that says about a person
Help me help...
2024-04-2337 min
Open & Awkward: Shop Talk with Katie and AmandaOpen & Awkward - Pilot Episode/Episode 1: Let's Make a Podcast!Subtitle: It’s about owning a retail store and marketing and also whatever we want
Summary: We’re calling this our “pilot episode” because we interrupt and talk over each other incessantly and we didn’t have real microphones. So, you get what you get!
Highlights:
- Amanda’s shop ghost
- Why Katie doesn’t look at her personal newsletter metrics
- How aggravating it is when people come into the shop and use the bathroom and don’t buy anything and what to do with it
...
2024-04-1637 min