SHOW NOTES

Frontline leaders are the bridge between the strategic vision of an organization and its practical, day-to-day implementation.

When we lead authentically, we embody the values and mission of the organization in a way that is tangible and relatable to our store teams.

Authenticity isn’t just a leadership style, though — it’s a tool that enables you to connect deeply with your teams, drive meaningful results, and navigate the complexities of day-to-day operations with integrity and empathy.

So, how do you develop your authentic leadership style?

In this episode, Matthew Goodfriend, Sr. Manager of Learning & Development at GameStop, shares his tried and tested strategies.

With a career that began by chance and flourished into a series of remarkable achievements, Matthew’s 18-year journey with GameStop is a testament to adaptability, dedication, and the power of embracing unconventional paths.

Host Ron Thurston and Matthew explore:

• The intricacies of developing an authentic leadership style
• How diverse experiences and a commitment to continuous learning factor into the equation
• Strategies for fostering mutual understanding and trust in your teams

This episode is a must for aspiring and current retail leaders, frontline managers, and anyone passionate about understanding the keys to authentic leadership and career growth in retail, restaurants, and hospitality.

GUEST BIO

Matthew Goodfriend, Sr. Manager of Learning & Development, GameStop

With a career spanning over 17 years in the retail industry, Matthew possesses a results-oriented leadership approach backed by strong interpersonal communication skills and a passion for empathetic and direct leadership.

Prior to his current position, Matthew held the role of Sr. Manager of Communications at GameStop, where he managed communications for corporate associates, field leadership, and over 3,000 store locations in the U.S., along with project management responsibilities.

His expertise lies in managing corporate, retail, and field leadership communications and learning, focusing on direct contact, interdepartmental relationship management, and enterprise-wide connectivity. Matthew excels in utilizing accountability, coaching, and swift action on feedback to drive associates in successful business practices leading to favorable results.

Matthew was recognized as a winners of the annual 40 Under 40 Awards by Retail TouchPoints in 2023. And you can see him on stage with YOOBIC at NRF 2024 in January, discussing GameStop’s Quest for Modern Frontline Operations through unified tech and AI.

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.