SHOW NOTES

It can be tough for retail leaders to stick to their brand’s core values.

They’re up against a lot — economic pressures, supply chain issues (Thanks, covid!!!), rapid tech advancements, changing consumer expectations, labor shortages, and the growing demand for sustainability and ethical practices.

Even still, for modern home furnishings retailer Blu Dot, brand values are the driving force behind their success. And sometimes, it’s the small, intentional changes that make the biggest impact.

In this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS, Ron dives deep into the nuanced art of retail transformation with Blu Dot’s Jo Cox (Regional Manager of Retail) and Jennifer Steichen (VP of Retail).

They dig into:

• The story behind Blu Dot’s core values and why authenticity matters
• Measuring the impact of core values on business performance and culture
• Practical ways frontline leaders can become better brand ambassadors
• Fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment in stores
• Strategies for cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset within teams

Tune in to discover how small changes in culture can lead to big differences in the retail world.

GUEST BIOS

Jo Cox, Regional Manager of Retail, Blu Dot

Jo Cox is a seasoned retail professional with over six years of experience at Blu Dot. Currently serving as Regional Manager of Retail, Jo oversees the stores in the south and drives sales initiatives across multiple locations. With a proven track record of success, Jo previously excelled as Store Manager at the Austin store, demonstrating exceptional leadership and customer service skills.

Before joining Blu Dot, Jo played a pivotal role in field marketing for Madewell’s West region. Armed with a deep understanding of retail and a passion for delivering exceptional service and community engagement, Jo is committed to driving results and fostering growth in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

Jennifer Steichen, VP of Retail, Blu Dot

Jennifer Steichen is a distinguished retail executive, currently serving as the VP of Retail at Blu Dot since March 2024. She brings extensive expertise in sales, operations, and real estate management from her previous roles. At The Bay Club Company, she excelled as Chief Operating Officer, developing corporate operations and enhancing member experiences across a $300M portfolio. As Vice President of Stores and Operations at Athleta, Jennifer led 7,000 employees, drove the opening of 70 new stores, and achieved industry-leading customer satisfaction scores.

Her career includes significant roles at Gap Inc., where she managed global franchise operations and contributed to the rapid growth of the store channel in Greater China. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

HOST BIO

Ron Thurston is the host of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS. 

Ron is the co-founder of OSSY, a full-service agency platform that connects retailers, candidates, and solution providers to create thriving retail careers and businesses.

With 30+ years leading retail stores and operations for America’s most prominent brands, like Gap, Saint Laurent, Apple, Bonobos, and INTERMIX, Ron has developed a deep expertise in retail strategy, management, and innovation.

Ron is the author of RETAIL PRIDE, an Amazon bestseller that inspires retail professionals to take pride in their accidental careers. He hosts the RETAIL IN AMERICA podcast and tour, sharing the untold retail success stories and the incredible people behind them.

Ron’s work has set him up as one of the most influential voices in retail and retail tech, and he serves on the Advisory Board of YOOBIC and several emerging retail technology platforms, including Ometria, Reflex, and Vendoor.

ABOUT FRONTLINE FRIDAYS

FRONTLINE FRIDAYS WITH RON THURSTON is a live podcast for frontline leaders and advocates in retail and hospitality.

Ron Thurston has a question for leaders out there who are inspiring excellence in their frontline teams: “What do you do differently?” In this candid discussion series, he’ll sit down with them to find out. Each episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS offers real-world strategy from retail and hospitality change makers on frontline leadership and personal career growth.