Archives: Podcasts

SHOW NOTES

Luxury retail and hospitality may have started in different lanes — but today, both industries have embraced the power of creating immersive, unforgettable experiences.

Now, they’re realizing that by teaming up, they can take guest satisfaction and loyalty to entirely new levels. 🌝

Nailah Nash, Director of Retail at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, saw this exciting potential nearly a decade ago, but it was a tough sell! Luxury retailers had long guarded their exclusivity, and convincing them to step into the hospitality space required serious relationship building.

Nailah didn’t just crack the code — she mastered it. Today, she curates unforgettable retail experiences for resort guests, blending high-end luxury with local culture. 🌍💎

In this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS, Nailah joins Ron Thurston to reflect on her learnings, and discuss how this trend is shaping the future of hospitality.

They dig into:

• Her approach to building strong brand partnerships
• How to anticipate and exceed the needs of luxury clients with personalized interactions
• Her leadership journey — from Saks Fifth Avenue to J Crew — and how it shapes her approach to retail today

 

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GUEST BIO

Nailah Nash, Director of Retail, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Nailah Ayeshia Nash is a distinguished retail executive, serving as Director of Retail at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Since joining in 2015, she has elevated the resort’s retail offerings, creating a shopping experience that reflects both the luxury of The Ritz-Carlton and the charm of Amelia Island.

Nailah oversees a collection of boutique stores, curating exclusive items from top designers and local artisans. She has launched successful pop-up shops and seasonal collections, enhancing the guest experience with private shopping and bespoke services. Her innovative approach, blending luxury with local culture, has set new standards for retail within the hospitality industry.

Under her leadership, the retail division has become a key component of the guest experience, contributing significantly to the resort’s reputation as a premier destination. Nailah’s business acumen, trend foresight, and dedication to personalized service have distinguished her as a rising star in luxury retail.

In addition to her work at Amelia Island, Nailah mentors retail teams across The Ritz-Carlton globally. Her strategic vision and commitment to excellence have made her a respected leader, influencing luxury retail practices across the hospitality industry.

Nailah is on the board of directors for the Trinity Love Hoblit Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) that supports and funds neurological research, training, and treatment for brain aneurysms, strokes, and other cerebrovascular conditions. And she is a member of the advisory council for Gifting Brands, a non-profit offering a solution for brands to use their excess inventory to make an impact through sustainability & philanthropy.

 

HOST BIO

Ron Thurston is the host of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS. 

Ron Thurston 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.

SHOW NOTES

What pandemic-driven changes are here to stay in restaurant training?

COVID-19 was a wake-up call that exposed weaknesses in traditional methods, and for Ashley Helkenn, Sr. Director of Training at Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken, this shift has led to more resilient and adaptive training practices.

With experience at brands like Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Macaroni Grill, and Bahama Breeze, Ashley is known for her innovative approach to transforming training.

And innovation is certainly on the menu as economic instability, labor shortages, and unpredictable customer behavior continue to challenge the restaurant industry.

In this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS, host Ron Thurston and Ashley Helkenn will explore the radical shift in restaurant training culture and how to leverage it.

They’ll dig into:

• Ashley’s diverse career path and how it shaped her approach to restaurant training
• How the pandemic accelerated the need for faster, more effective training solutions and what that looks like today
• Key skills frontline leaders now need to excel in fast-casual and fast-food environments

Tune in for ideas on how to expand your training programs and elevate your team’s performance.

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GUEST BIO

Ashley Helkenn, Senior Director of Training, Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken

Ashley Helkenn spearheads training at Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken, covering frontline, franchise, and manager training programs, new restaurant openings, and career development. She has been pivotal in launching an online learning and task management system, boosting trust and engagement with franchise partners.

With a rich background in restaurant operations since the age of 15, Ashley’s hands-on experience is key to her success in supporting restaurant teams. Before Bonchon, she contributed to both regional and national brands such as Cotton Patch Cafe, Local Favorite Restaurant (formerly Firebird Restaurant Group), and Dickey’s Barbecue where she developed scalable systems and structures. Known for her project management and cross-functional leadership skills, Ashley excels in bridging language, literacy, and skills gaps to enhance team performance and achieve brand goals.

Ashley holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and two master’s degrees: an MBA and a Master of Science in Management and Leadership. She is also an active member of CHART, an association of hospitality trainers.

HOST BIO

Ron Thurston is the host of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS. 

Ron Thurston 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.

SHOW NOTES

Retail environments are often characterized by high stress, rapid changes, and constant customer interaction. These pressures can lead to burnout, high turnover, and diminished performance. What if a solution to these challenges lies in a practice as ancient as mindfulness?

In this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS, Ron Thurston explores the potential — and reality — of mindfulness training with guest Fil D’Urbano, Chief Leadership and Mindfulness Officer at fashion retailer Ardene.

An HR trailblazer with over 40 years of experience, including pivotal roles at L Brands and Groupe Dynamite, Fil has integrated mindfulness and conscious leadership into the employee experience at Ardene.

And it’s transforming how Ardene’s retail leaders show up at work and support their teams.

Ron and Fil dive into:

• The journey and impact of introducing mindfulness at Ardene
• Addressing misconceptions about mindfulness in fast fashion
• Practical mindfulness practices that any retail team can implement

If you’re a retail leader looking to improve your team’s well-being and performance, this episode is a must-listen.

 

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GUEST BIO

Fil D’Urbano, Chief Leadership and Mindfulness Officer, Ardene

Fil D’Urbano is the Chief Leadership and Mindfulness Officer at Ardene, an international fashion apparel retailer. After over three decades as a senior HR executive for top-tier organizations, Fil is now focused on unlocking potential through mindfulness and conscious leadership.

As a compassionate leader, Fil has a remarkable reputation as a change agent, culture-builder, and innovative thinker across industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and retail. Her belief in mindfulness and conscious leadership has led to award-winning programs and culture shifts.

Fil’s mission is driven by a genuine passion to make a positive impact on people’s lives and help them unleash their full potential both at work and in the world. With mindfulness as the cornerstone, Fil’s approach reminds us all to look inward and build self-awareness to cultivate the conscious leadership approach we need to guide our teams through today’s ever-evolving landscape of work and societal pressures, rising uncertainty, and rapid change. By sharing her insights, wisdom, and leadership expertise, Fil is elevating what it means to show up at work, and help individuals lead with authenticity and compassion.

Today, Fil is bringing mindfulness and conscious leadership principles to workplaces across North America, helping businesses foster cultures where success is measured not only by financial results but also by their impact on people’s lives.

 

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.

SHOW NOTES

Every visual element in stores must not only captivate customers but also drive sales. So how do you effectively merge creativity with operational excellence in visual merchandising?

Brandon Lee, a 20-year VM leader and the visionary Creative Director & Owner of Brandon Lee Designs, knows one thing: “In retail, there’s no creativity without the ops behind it.”

From guiding the visual identities of iconic brands like Ralph Lauren, Bonobos, Gap, and Brooks Brothers, to pioneering visual merchandising solutions in the cannabis and furniture industries — Brandon has done it all.

In this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS, Brandon shares his guiding principles for creating immersive retail environments that aren’t only visually stunning but also commercially successful.

Brandon and host Ron Thurston dig into:

• Why being business-savvy is as important as creativity
• Strategies for integrating creative vision with operational efficiency
• How the role of visual merchandising is evolving and staying ahead of the curve

Tune in for practical, actionable advice for retail creatives from one of visual merchandising’s most innovative minds.

 

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GUEST BIO

Brandon Lee, Creative Director & Owner, Brandon Lee Designs

Brandon is an enthusiastic creative leader with a specialty in producing captive physical experiences and easy to shop environments. For 20 years, he has been the head of visual merchandising from a range of brands where he has either rebuilt the VM infrastructure or created it entirely from scratch. From Ralph Lauren, Bonobos, Gap, Moose Knuckles, & Brooks Brothers to name a few, he has proven himself to be able to soak in a brand vision and provide meaningful solutions for Visual Merchandising needs.

While Brandon has had a tenured career as an in-house VM creative, in early 2023 he left the full time world to start his own LLC, Brandon Lee Designs. With the knowledge gained after having worked alongside some of the best in the industry, he is now diving into the cannabis industry and providing companies like Good Day Farm and Rove, with the visual merchandising expertise and store design help that this growing industry is in need of. In his new capacity he has expanded his portfolio into set styling within the furniture industry and also serves as a fabrication house that is able to manufacture the ideas that he and his clients can dream up.

As the retail creative landscape evolves, he hopes that his leadership within the industry will help move the creative forward and pass the torch to inspire others to make amazing brand moments and have some fun along the way.

 

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.

SHOW NOTES

Creating those lifelong customer relationships isn’t about the quick sale; it’s about forging genuine human connections. Harley-Davidson’s reputation for community and loyalty sets the gold standard.

Lance Orso, General Manager of Dallas Harley-Davidson, practices these values through his own style of relationship selling.

As a 3rd generation Harley-Davidson rider and competitive motocross racer, Lance lives and breathes the lifestyle — but building a strong customer community takes more than brand passion.

It takes a solid process.

Lance’s process has propelled him to the top of his field. And he’s teaching his store teams how to do the same.

In this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS, Lance and host Ron Thurston dig into:

• Lance’s philosophy for building genuine connections that go beyond the sale
• Practical techniques for creating lasting customer connections and unique in-store experiences
• Insights into balancing team freedom with professionalism and fostering a culture that thrives on diversity

Tune in for ideas on how store teams can better connect with any customer who walks through the door.

 

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GUEST BIO

Lance Orso, General Manager, Dallas Harley-Davidson

Lance has 18 years in the powersports business, with 12 years at Dallas Harley-Davidson where he currently serves as General Manager. Before stepping into that role, Lance held a variety of leadership roles across the business, including Parts Manager, Service Manager, Sales, Finance Manager, and General Sales Manager.

Lance is a 3rd generation Harley-Davidson rider and got his feet wet as a young boy racing motocross. Lance spent most of his life growing up at motocross tracks around the country and as he got older he switched into the Flat Track Racing world.

Outside of motorcycles, Lance spends his time hanging out with his family and training Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai.

 

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.

SHOW NOTES

Why does making strategic career moves in retail sometimes feel like navigating a labyrinth? Because… it is one?

(Yeah, we said it.)

If you’re seeking refreshingly blunt truths about advancing your career, this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS is a must-listen.

Ron’s guest Kate Sargent, founder and Principle of KJS Career Coaching & Consulting, brings over 20 years of leadership in People Ops, Organizational Development, and Talent Acquisition from top brands like The Citizenry, Allbirds, Method, and The North Face.

Known for her straightforward empathetic approach, Kate delivers the honest, actionable guidance that most career coaches can’t offer you (because they aren’t deep experts in your industry).

Tune in to get Kate’s candid, informed advice on self-PR, job switching, performance improvement, and staying marketable.

Kate and Host Ron dig into:

• Approaching career progression strategically, whether in-store or corporate
• Key considerations for staying in a big company vs moving to a smaller brand
• Positioning yourself for recognition
• Benefits of career coaching at different career stages, from entry-level to executive

Prepare yourself for career advice you’re unlikely to hear anywhere else.

 

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GUEST BIO

Kate Sargent, Founder & Principle, KJS Career Coaching & Consulting

Kate Sargent is a seasoned executive with over 20 years in People Operations, Organizational Development, Talent Acquisition, and D2C Strategy within mission-driven retail and CPG companies. As founder of KJS Career Coaching & Talent Consulting and Top Executive Coaching Voice on LinkedIn, she has spent the last 8 years providing services to teams and individuals, supporting leadership, performance and career advising. Kate is currently expanding her offerings and is Co-Founder of a community centered consulting collective featuring a give-back/pro bono model.

Kate’s recent roles include VP of People Ops at The Citizenry, where she led the team through an acquisition by Havenly (2024) and scaling Global Talent Acquisition and DEIB at Allbirds (2021 IPO). Previously she built out Method’s Global Talent Acquisition and DEI functions through SCJohnson acquisition (2018) and managed talent acquisition for retail and corporate at VF Outdoor (The North Face, JanSport, lucy brands).

The foundation and core of her career were built around field leadership, running teams at Apple, Bare Escentuals, L’Occitane, and AEO. Known for strategic insight and thoughtful leadership, Kate thrives when driving business and operational strategy through people, adding a unique blend of humor, empathy, and inclusivity.

 

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.

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.

 

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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.

SHOW NOTES

What if a single store visit could be your stepping stone to a big promotion? This isn’t a hypothetical for some retail leaders, it’s their resume.

Yolanda Vega, Director of Stores (Southeast & Central US) at Zadig&Voltaire, was once promoted after a remarkable store visit. Fun fact: So was FRONTLINE FRIDAYS host Ron Thurston.

With over two decades of retail leadership at brands like Gap, J.Crew, and Ralph Lauren, Yolanda’s carved out a reputation for transforming store environments into stories of strategic vision and success.

Now, she’s teaching her store leaders at Zadig&Voltaire to do the same.

In this episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS, Yolanda and Ron dissect strategies and preparation techniques that ensure store leaders not only perform exceptionally during these visits — but also how directors can coach their teams to take ownership of their roles and become champions of their own stories.

They dig into:

• Common mistakes store managers make during store visits
• Key elements to captivate the attention of visiting executives
• Balancing the showcase of real challenges with maintaining a positive store image
• Insights into fostering a culture of success and leadership among store managers

Tune in for how to transform routine store visits into powerful narratives that not only showcase store success but also pave paths to advancement.

 

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GUEST BIO

Yolanda Vega, Director of Stores (Southeast & Central US), Zadig&Voltaire

Yolanda Vega is Director of Stores, Southeast & Central at Zadig&Voltaire, a French contemporary fashion brand redefining the very essence of luxury for a new generation.

Over Yolanda’s 20-year retail career, her passionate pursuit of service excellence has fueled a track record of building high visibility and high volume teams that drove greater business growth at brands like Gap, J.Crew, and Ralph Lauren.

Developing winning store teams and coaching them to become strategic leaders is her superpower. And she’s committed to helping kickstart many more successful retail careers. Dream BIG, Plan and Execute!
Yolanda is currently based in Miami, Florida, where she enjoys the beach, pilates, and her dog Sancho.

 

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.

SHOW NOTES

Unlocking a future of innovation lies in recognizing and nurturing untapped talent. That’s important in any industry. In retail — it’s everything.

This episode zeroes in on a transformative approach to retail hiring — one that values potential over credentials, and opens doors to a more diverse and dynamic workforce.

Join Ron Thurston from LinkedIn in NYC, with special guest Sherrica Hill, Director, Solutions Design & Delivery at Jobs for the Future (JFF) — as they dive into the heart and strategy of equitable talent practices.

Sherrica, a luminary in the field of talent development, brings over 2 decades of retail and program management experience to the discussion.

From her early days on the retail frontline to spearheading Gap Inc.’s “This Way ONward” program, Sherrica’s journey is a testament to the power of seeing beyond a resume.

This episode explores:

• The future of frontline work, the challenges ahead, and how retail employers can create environments where every talent thrives
• Sherrica’s transformative work in fostering inclusive growth opportunities and her philosophy of hiring for potential, not credentials
• How JFF is bridging the gap between education, workforce needs, and the underrepresented voices in the retail sector

Expect a candid discussion with real-world advice, career stories, and practical strategies for empowering the underrepresented, and redefining success in retail hiring.

Learn more about the mission of Jobs for the Future.

 

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GUEST BIO

Sherrica Hill, Director, Solutions Design & Delivery, Jobs for the Future (JFF)

Sherrica Hill brings over 15 years of expertise in business, program management, and talent development to her mission of championing access and opportunity for underrepresented talent.

At Jobs for the Future, she spearheads the implementation of field-facing programs and solutions focused on creating equitable economic talent practices that center worker voice and agency. Collaborating with experts and drawing on her years of field and corporate experience, she drives behavior change among private-sector employers.

Previously, Sherrica spent 2 decades in the retail industry, starting as a seasonal sales associate and advancing to corporate leadership. Her notable achievement includes leading Gap Inc.’s This Way ONward program, which tackles systemic barriers to employment and advancement for over 15,000 underrepresented early-career talent.

Sherrica’s commitment to inclusivity and strategic thinking is evident throughout her career. Armed with a Bachelor of Business Administration in HR Management, earned while balancing a full-time job, she exemplifies perseverance and dedication.

An Atlanta native, Sherrica enjoys spending time with her family. Whether cheering her two boys on the sidelines of recreational sports or exploring new destinations with her husband, she values creating lasting memories with her family.

 

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.