Archives: Podcasts

SHOW NOTES

The “future store?” It’s already here. As new tech emerge and consumer behaviors evolve, the call for new systems and strategies in retail ops has never been louder.

Store pilot projects, the experimental heartbeat of retail innovation, are more crucial than ever.

They enable retailers to navigate through the complexities of change, ensuring that adaptation is not just reactive but proactive and strategic.

In this episode, Ron Thurston will turn the spotlight on the art and science of piloting new store initiatives.

Join Ron as he dives deep with Michael Saldaña, Senior Retail Operations Manager at UNTUCKit, whose journey from store manager to operations maestro has been marked by operational innovation and a passion for people.

They explore the intricacies of launching successful pilot projects, from the drawing board to real-world application, including:

• Selecting the right locations and formats
• Engaging employees and leveraging their feedback for project refinement
• KPIs that guide project evaluation and the decision-making process for scaling successes

Whether you’re a seasoned retail leader or an aspiring manager, this episode promises valuable insights into executing flawless pilot projects that pave the way for operational excellence.

 

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GUEST BIO

Michael Saldaña, Senior Retail Operations Manager, UNTUCKit

Michael Saldaña is the Senior Retail Operations Manager at UNTUCKit. A former store manager armed with an MA in professional writing from Carnegie Mellon University, Michael brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and effective communication skills to the world of retail operations.

With a proven track record in standardizing store processes at UNTUCKit, Michael has successfully implemented practices to streamline workload and enhance operational efficiency in stores. His dedication to excellence extends to the introduction of new tools to further optimize in-store operations and drive sustainable growth at UNTUCKit.

Michael is committed to delivering quality results and the best experience for customers and store associates alike. This commitment, coupled with a passion for innovation, make him an asset in the dynamic retail landscape.

 

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

In an industry that moves fast, feeling stuck can seem like the ultimate setback. But what if being “stuck” is just the pause you need to catapult your retail leadership to new heights?

In this revealing episode, we’re exploring the process of turning career stagnation into a launchpad for growth.

Our guest, Brian Librach, author of the brand new book “The Retail Leader’s Roadmap,” has navigated the peaks and valleys of a dynamic career in retail management.

Starting his journey at 21 and scaling the heights to become the VP of Stores for Urban Outfitters by 38, Brian knows a thing or two about growth, resilience, and the courage to move forward when you find yourself stuck.

Host Ron Thurston and Brian dig into:

• What it means to be “stuck” and how to recognize the signs in your own career journey
• Brian’s “5 Principles of Performance” and how to integrate them into your daily workflow
• Developing “high learning agility” and why it’s a non-negotiable trait

Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply looking for ways to proactively steer your career, this episode is a must-listen.

 

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GUEST BIO

Brian Librach, Author of “The Retail Leader’s Roadmap”

Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD in an era unaware of its complexities taught Brian Librach invaluable lessons. Coping mechanisms weren’t taught; he navigated through trial and error, leveraging the driven nature ADHD often brings. From sports to career aspirations, Brian chased dopamine and endorphins, finding solace in tattoos and motorcycles along the way.

It wasn’t until leading as a district manager at 21 that Brian articulated his coping methods, influenced by “The Tao of Personal Leadership.” Self-taught in getting unstuck, he sought wisdom to propel forward. Despite minimal traditional education, Brian excelled in retail leadership, climbing from the stockroom to the corner office at Urban Outfitters, PacSun, and internationally with Old Navy in Canada.

Married to an executive coach, Brian benefits from invaluable guidance. Reflecting on his journey, he recognizes parallels in others navigating non-traditional paths. ADHD, often viewed as a hindrance, provided him with improvisation skills crucial in retail.

In his book “The Retail Leader’s Roadmap,” Brian shares practical strategies honed through experience. Retail isn’t just a career; it’s ingrained in his heritage, driving his passion to mentor future leaders and make a meaningful impact.

 

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.

If you’re a retail leader who thrived under the guidance of a great career mentor, consider yourself lucky. Today’s ambitious industry professionals really want a mentor, but can’t seem to find one.

In a recent survey of 3,000 professionals, 76% said they think “people with mentors are happier at their current jobs than those without.” But only 37% said they have one.

Are you the game-changing career mentor someone is missing?

Laura Ravo, retail veteran, executive coach, and author of “The Power of Grit and Grace; A Woman’s Journey to Putting the Heart Back into Retail Leadership,” says the act of mentorship isn’t just a role to play, it’s a legacy to leave. And it’s time for more retail and hospitality leaders to step up.

In this episode, host Ron Thurston and Laura Ravo unpack what it takes to be an effective career mentor for tomorrow’s retail leaders.

They dig into:

• The growing gap in mentor-mentee relationships
• What’s stopping some leaders from stepping up
• Qualities of a great mentor and how to cultivate them
• What to do if you’re still looking for your own mentor

 

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GUEST BIO

Laura Ravo, Retail Guru, Executive Coach, Author

Laura Ravo is a retail guru with 30 years of retail stores and operations experience. She most recently served as COO of Jane.com, and at the iconic Strand bookstore in NYC.

Leveraging her leadership skills and authentic approach, Laura has developed some of the highest performing teams in global retail. Her scrappy determination (or grit as she likes to call it), her endless curiosity, and very humanistic approach (or grace as she likes to call it) have been the cornerstone of her leadership success. Laura has held senior management roles in some of the most prominent brands, both in department stores and specialty retail, including Macy’s, L Brands, Victoria’s Secret, LensCrafters, Oakley and The Body Shop.

Laura is a sought after executive coach, speaker and author of the book “The Power of Grit and Grace; A Woman’s Journey to Putting the Heart Back into Retail Leadership,” published in March 2023.

She was voted one of the Top Women in Retail in 2021 by Women in Retail Leadership Circle.

She is an advocate, activist and force for good in her native NYC, serving as a senior volunteer for City Relief, a mobile outreach program offering people experiencing poverty and homelessness hot meals, supplies and connections to resources for housing, employment, and health care.

 

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.

GUEST BIO

Retail’s bright future is being shaped by leaders who not only foresee changes on the horizon but actively prepare their frontline teams to navigate these shifts with confidence, creativity, and a sense of shared purpose.

Kelly Anderson, Retail Director at Swiss luxury fashion house Akris, sees this as her calling. (Practicing law was the original plan; which, interestingly, helped her arrive at this understanding.)

Kelly’s 20-year career in store leadership roles with prestigious brands like Moncler, Louis Vuitton, Kenneth Cole, and Aldo, has equipped her with a unique vantage point on the intricacies of inspiring authenticity and inclusivity in multi-generational frontline teams.

In this episode, Ron Thurston and Kelly Anderson will delve into the heart of what it means to inspire and lead the next wave of frontline talent.

They dig into:

• Mentoring and developing frontline talent to meet the future’s challenges
• Practical strategies for nurturing frontline talent to engage new generations in meaningful and impactful ways
• Kelly’s leadership mantra for cultivating authenticity and inclusivity within the exclusive world of retail

Tune in to get inspired, challenged, and equipped to lead your frontline teams into a future where they thrive.

 

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GUEST BIO

Kelly Anderson, Retail Director, Akris

Kelly Anderson is the Retail Director for fashion retailer Akris. Known as an influential agent of positive and impactful change, Kelly has spent the last 20 years transforming, evolving, and inspiring the next generation of frontline associates at Akris, Moncler, Louis Vuitton, Kenneth Cole, and Aldo.

With a deep-rooted passion for making a difference, Kelly believes that the future of retail means challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries to remain relevant in an ever-changing market.

Dedicating herself to roles across various contemporary and luxury brands that have allowed her to create innovative retail environments, characterized by inclusivity, sustainability, and accountability.

 

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

In an world where the traditional norms of leadership emphasize strength and assertiveness, the concept of vulnerability in management seems radical.

In this episode, we’re unraveling the intricacies and benefits of embracing vulnerability in leadership — a topic that is increasingly relevant in today’s dynamic retail industry.

Payton McFaden, Director of Global Sales Operations at Peloton, joins us to discuss why showing your human side is a strategic win in the leadership game.

With a background in retail sales management across various companies, Payton’s passion for operational strategy and culture development was honored in 2019 with Peloton’s “Think and Act Like an Owner” award.

She was also one of the first people at Peloton to move from Peloton’s retail frontlines to a pivotal corporate role. This accomplishment was an inspiration to her retail colleagues, but the journey was neither inevitable nor elegant.

In fact, it took Payton 7 attempts to make the transition. And she thinks it’s important that everyone — especially her store teams — knows it.

Get ready for an intimate conversation, as Payton shares firsthand experiences in building trust and confidence through vulnerable leadership.

Host Ron Thurston and Payton dig into:

• How vulnerability can revolutionize management and team dynamics
• Real-world examples of how vulnerability has shaped her approach and driven her team’s success
• Simple ways to start weaving vulnerability into your own leadership style

 

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GUEST BIO

Payton McFaden, Director of Sales Operations, Peloton

Payton McFaden leads Global sales operations for Peloton, including day-to-day functionality and operational infrastructure, designing programs, overseeing change management, and leading the team in driving global operational excellence. Payton has played a pivotal role in the continued development of supporting and enabling frontline sales teams to sell more efficiently and effectively, providing strategic direction and reducing friction in the sales process. The team led by Payton fulfills both strategic and tactical functions for 1P and 3P sales.

Before joining the Sales Operations team at Peloton, Payton worked in Retail Sales Management, both at Peloton and other retail companies. Her passion in-store focused on operational strategy, learning and development, and culture.

In 2019, Payton was recognized as the top Store Manager at Peloton amongst peers and leaders and was awarded the “Think and Act Like an Owner” to showcase exemplary representation of Peloton’s company vision and brand image.

Payton earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Retail Management from The Art Institute International and received a MFAH Junior Diploma in Fine Arts, Fashion Design, & Reconstructed Fashion from the Glassell School of Art.

 

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

Asset protection in retail isn’t just about loss prevention — it’s about leadership, strategy, and shaping the frontline experience.

In the dynamic world of retail, how do leaders navigate the complexities of asset protection while maintaining profitability and integrity?

In this episode, Khristopher Hamlin, VP of Asset Protection at Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), unpacks the nuances of Asset Protection’s role in frontline leadership — and debunk some persisting myths along the way.

Host Ron Thurston and Khristopher explore:

• What retail leaders can do better in asset protection, and how frontline employees should engage with and contribute to asset protection strategies
• Cultivating frontline team relationships and changing perceptions in asset protection
• The multifaceted impact of RILA’s support for retailers, spanning government policy to DEI initiatives, and how these influence frontline operations

 

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GUEST BIO

Khristopher Hamlin, VP of Asset Protection, Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA)

Khristopher Hamlin is a seasoned expert in asset protection, boasting an impressive career spanning over three decades. Currently serving as the Vice President of Asset Protection at the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), Khristopher collaborates with leading retailers to navigate the challenges presented by today’s dynamic economic landscape.

Previously, Khristopher served as SVP of Asset Protection, Inventory Control, and DC/Logistics Operations at Saks OFF 5TH. There, he provided visionary leadership in crafting and implementing comprehensive corporate and store-level asset protection strategies. His portfolio encompassed risk assessments, inventory control, strategic talent acquisition in asset protection, learning and development initiatives, risk mitigation, as well as overseeing distribution center operations, transportation, and logistics.

Khristopher’s illustrious career also features notable tenures as the Regional Asset Protection Manager for Nordstrom, Inc., as a top 25 store manager for Belk, Inc., and a 20-year+ journey with Macy’s.

Khristopher is a dedicated entrepreneur, representing The Khris Hamlin Company, LLC, a leadership coaching and consulting firm. He holds a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Baltimore and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from George Mason University. Khristopher serves as the Director of Early Career Professionals and a member of the Board of Directors for the International Organization of Black Security Executives.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Khristopher cherishes moments spent with his family, actively engages in meaningful service within his church community, and explores the world through travel.

 

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

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.

 

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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.

SHOW NOTES

Visual merchandising leaders are used to keeping their finger on the pulse of trends. But when today’s customer enters a store, they want more than inspiration and exciting trends. They want to feel seen.

In 2024 and beyond, the store experience is one where customers feel uniquely represented and valued.

With that, Visual Merchandising leaders are now becoming unofficial keepers of culture.

But not just for customers. Because the next generation of store employees expects an internal company culture that is highly inclusive, too.

Adimika Jaia Owens, Brand Experience Executive (Floor & Decor, Bloomingdale’s, Forever 21, Victoria’s Secret), says Visual Merchandising professionals are uniquely poised to help guide both.

In this episode, Ron Thurston sits down with Adimika to discuss visual merchandising leaders as the new keepers of company culture.

They dig into:

• Best practices for ensuring visual merchandising contributes to a cohesive customer journey rather than aesthetics and product placement
• How to ensure customer representation is reflected in your visual merchandising strategies
• Fostering an employee experience that encourages frontline workers to grow and thrive as their authentic self
• Finding spaces, brands, and leaders that resonate with your own values

 

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GUEST BIO

Adimika Jaia Owens, Brand Experience Executive (Floor & Decor, Bloomingdale’s, Forever 21, Victoria’s Secret)

Adimika is a visual merchandising leader with over 25 years of experience in the field, most recently serving as Senior Director of Visual Merchandising for Floor & Decor. Previously, Adimika led innovative visual merchandising campaigns for Bloomingdale’s, Forever 21 and Victoria’s Secret.

Her keen eye for detail, creativity, and ability to stay ahead of industry trends have consistently resulted in visually stunning and engaging store displays. Her leadership approach champions cross-functional team collaboration, DEIB, and frontline career growth.

At Floor & Decor, Adimika not only led the development of innovative visual merchandising strategies that enhance brand image and drive sales — she also served as leadership team sponsor for the organization’s internal affinity groups, and provided mentorship to frontline team members.

Adimika currently serves on the Boards of Retail Design Institute (RDI), VMSD Magazine, and SHOP, and is available for executive consulting.

 

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’s no secret that retail employees who feel a sense of belonging and community in their store team are more likely to be engaged in their work. (Gallup)

Also no secret: This is a daunting task for frontline leaders. One often hindered by high turnover rates, diverse and part-time workforces, competitive environments, and limited resources for engagement.

But Paula Angelucci, District Director at lingerie retailer Adore Me, is cracking the code to build tight-knit store team communities that care about their work and each other.

In this episode of Frontline Fridays, Ron Thurston sits down with Paula to discuss what it takes to build a true sense of community among your store teams.

They dig into:

• Leader’s mindset for inspiring a fantastic, inclusive store team community
• How to encourage and model open and honest communication
• Culture initiatives that can keep your frontline employees motivated

Whether you’re a seasoned frontline leader or an aspiring manager, this episode promises valuable insights into building more inclusive and engaged store team communities.

 

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GUEST BIO

Paula Angelucci, District Director, Adore Me

Five years ago, intimate apparel brand Adore Me tapped Paula Angelucci as their first ever District Director. In her first year, she helped open four Adore Me stores in Providence RI, Willowbrook NJ, Natick, MA, and Chattanooga, TN.

She created the retail cadence for these new stores from the ground up, guiding recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training content development.

Prior to Adore Me, Paula was with Victoria’s Secret as a Platinum Flagship Store Manager and went on to run multiple high volume districts.

But her retail career began at Macy’s with an Executive Training Program in New York, taking her on a 20+ year tenure with the organization in various customer facing and operational roles, and rising to become Vice President Store Manager.

Paula’s passion lies with the customer experience. Most retail skills are transferable as long as you keep the customer as king or queen. That’s been a constant throughout her time in the retail brick and mortar space — having wonderful products and an unforgettable customer experience led by highly engaging teammates.

 

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

Retail and hospitality associates want more than just more money. Employee satisfaction surveys reveal another common refrain: Feeling stagnant in their role.

With so many frontline workers in a haze about their career trajectory, how can directors and managers help steer them towards clarity and growth?

Ron Thurston sits down with Samantha Rubino, Director of Training & Communications at Pollo Tropical, to discuss how retail and hospitality leaders can remove the stigma of stagnancy in frontline work — and instead foster a culture of proud career paths.

They dig into:

• Debunking the misconceptions about today’s frontline careers
• How to take the pulse of the folks in your frontline to better support their needs and aspirations
• Tactics for building frontline career paths

Whether you’re a seasoned frontline leader or an aspiring manager, this episode promises valuable insights into driving the future of modern frontline careers in your organization.

 

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GUEST BIO

Samantha Rubino, Director of Training & Communications, Pollo Tropical

Sam is a dedicated training and development professional with an unwavering passion for service and empowering others. Her mission: Helping individuals unearth their full potential and grow into the best versions of themselves.

Despite an initial calling to healthcare, Sam found herself drawn to the vibrant hospitality and restaurant industry. A wealth of experience at renowned establishments Ritz Carlton and Outback prepared her for her pivotal leadership role at Bolay Fresh Kitchen, where her L&D programs increased operational efficiency and streamlined communications between HQ and frontline teams. Today, she brings that expertise to her new leadership role at Pollo Tropical.

In a world where genuine mentors are rare, Sam stands out as a frontline advocate, embodying the essence of servant leadership and unwavering support.

 

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.