5 Minute Marketing Tips: Making Marketing Manageable | Episode 247

5 Minute Marketing Tips: Making Marketing Manageable | Episode 247

 Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 247 | 5 Minute Marketing Tips: Making Retail Marketing Manageable

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 247 | 5 Minute Marketing Tips: Making Marketing Manageable | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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With Retail Coach Wendy Batten

 

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Listen on:  Apple Podcasts |Spotify | Radio Republic | YouTube | PlayerFM | Stitcher | iHeartRadio

In This Episode: 

Are you feeling overwhelmed at the thought of making a marketing plan for your retail business? Don’t worry – I’m breaking it all down for you in this quick 5 minute episode. I’ll share how independent retail businesses can simplify their marketing by focusing on the numbers that matter most. With the practical tips I share throughout this episode, you’ll be able to flip your mindset around retail marketing to simplify your efforts AND make your efforts more intentional. Intentional marketing leads to retail success!

Let’s dive in!

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 247 | 5 Minute Marketing Tips: Making Marketing Manageable | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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Related podcasts we think you’d like:

Episodes 163-166: Simple Sales Strategy Series

Episode 241: Year-End Reflections: Mindset, Marketing, and Lessons for Success in 2025

Episode 245: Best of Series: Retail Marketing from Gen Z to Boomers

About Your Host, Wendy Batten:

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of The Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/

For more support from Wendy:

Retailer’s Inner Circle – Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Wendy’s FREE Resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.

Subscribe and Review in iTunes:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rock star, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those reviews help other retailers find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!

5 Minute Marketing Tips: Relationships are Rocket Fuel | Episode 246

5 Minute Marketing Tips: Relationships are Rocket Fuel | Episode 246

 Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 246 | 5 Minute Marketing Tips: Relationships are Rocket Fuel

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 246 | 5 Minute Marketing Tips: Relationships are Rocket Fuel | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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With Retail Coach Wendy Batten

 

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Listen on:  Apple Podcasts |Spotify | Radio Republic | YouTube | PlayerFM | Stitcher | iHeartRadio

In This Episode: 

We know that building strong relationships is more than just good business – it’s the key to staying memorable, growing your network, and fostering trust in your community. In this quick 5 minute episode, I am breaking down how relationships can fuel your success: from customer connections to community collaborations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Relationships Matter: Connect with your customers, staff, vendors, and other local businesses. Building trust and being known in your community keeps you top of mind.
  • Empower Your Team: Train your staff to be conversationalists who represent your business and nurture customer relationships with care.
  • Collaboration is Key: Partnering with other local businesses can spark fresh ideas and open doors to new opportunities.
  • Word of Mouth Works: Strong relationships lead to referrals and help your business grow organically.
  • Retail Excellence: Independent retailers stand out by nurturing relationships and providing exceptional service through authentic connections.

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 246 | 5 Minute Marketing Tips: Relationships are Rocket Fuel | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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Related podcasts we think you’d like:

Episode 147: How to Reframe Your Mindset Around Competition

Episode 174: 5 Ways to Network in Your Own Community

Episode 238: Behind the Counter: Building Community Through Beautiful Spaces with Lisa Wrixon

About Your Host, Wendy Batten:

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of The Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/

For more support from Wendy:

Retailer’s Inner Circle – Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Wendy’s FREE Resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.

Subscribe and Review in iTunes:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rock star, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those reviews help other retailers find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!

Best of Series: Retail Marketing from Gen Z to Boomers | Episode 245

Best of Series: Retail Marketing from Gen Z to Boomers | Episode 245

 Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 245 | Best of Series: Retail Marketing from Gen Z to Boomers | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 245 | Best of Series: Retail Marketing from Gen Z to Boomers | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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With Retail Coach Wendy Batten

 

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Listen on:  Apple Podcasts |Spotify | Radio Republic | YouTube | PlayerFM | Stitcher | iHeartRadio

In This Episode: 

We are going back in time to rediscover one of the most popular episodes of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast! 

We all know that differences exist across generations, but have you given any thought to how those differences could impact marketing for your retail shop? Today on the podcast we are going to dive into just that: generational differences among our customers and how we can market differently to ensure we are serving all of our customers without leaving money on the table.

This question came up in my Level Up Mastermind retail group recently and as a group we did some digging. Today I’m sharing some research and findings with you all. If you are interested in learning more about the group, you can check out my website here.

How to Market to Different Generations

Here are some notes about each generation: where they are in life, what they respond to, what they are looking for, etc.

  • Gen Z – (ages 12-26 currently) – Gen Z spans a wide age range, but the older bunch is at the age where they are getting their first apartment, buying their first home, getting married, etc. They will tell you that they have a short attention span. This group (more than others) responds to short-form video (TikTok)
  • Millennials – (ages 27-42 currently) – Millennials have a busy lifestyle. They are often parents of young children. A few things that characterize their shopping experience are frictionless buying, connection to the community, loyalty to brands they love, driven by peers (reviews). Surprisingly, Millennials are still listening to the radio. They love curbside pickup and Instagram buying – anything that makes life easier.
  • Gen X – (ages 43-58 currently) – Gen X shares characteristics of both Millennials and Boomers. They are totally loyal to brands they love and expect great customer service. Traditional marketing typically still work amongst Gen X (value added, coupons, discounts etc.) They are a very nostalgic bunch and often purchase from Facebook ads.
  • Boomers – (ages 59-75 currently) – Surprisingly, Boomers are the best at opening emails. They are very brand loyal and not motivated by FOMO, meaning last-minute or exclusive deals won’t speak to them. Boomers love online ordering and still purchase gift certificates.

How to Make Sure You are Serving Multiple Generations

Some follow-up questions to think about as you listen:

  1. Who in your community does your shop serve?
  2. Who do you want to serve?
  3. Who lives in your community?
  4. Who is buying for whom and how does that affect your marketing?
  5. What can you offer in your shop that crosses multiple generations?
  6. If you serve a specific generation, what can you do to serve the generation coming up behind them?

Be sure to stay open and curious about your marketing strategy and how you can market your business across generations. For example, if your ideal customers are primarily Gen Z, how are you reaching Boomers when they are looking to purchase gifts for this younger generation?

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 245 | Best of Series: Retail Marketing from Gen Z to Boomers | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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Related podcasts we think you’d like:

Episode 79: Your Competitive Advantage Over Amazon

Episode 82: 5 Steps to Simplify Your Content Planning

Episode 101: Making Email Marketing Fun with Kate Doster

About Your Host, Wendy Batten:

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of The Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/

For more support from Wendy:

Retailer’s Inner Circle – Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Wendy’s FREE Resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.

Subscribe and Review in iTunes:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rock star, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those reviews help other retailers find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!

Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy | Episode 244

Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy | Episode 244

 Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 244 | Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 244 | Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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With Retail Coach Wendy Batten

 

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Listen on:  Apple Podcasts |Spotify | Radio Republic | YouTube | PlayerFM | Stitcher | iHeartRadio

In This Episode: 

Are you curious how e-commerce businesses evolve into brick and mortar shops? Maybe you operate an Etsy shop or sell on social media but have always wondered what it would be like to open your own shop. If that sounds like you, listen up!

In this episode of the podcast, we are diving into the story of Chris Waddy, the owner and CEO of Loopy Wool in Salisbury, New Brunswick. Chris shares her incredible journey from running a small Etsy shop to building a thriving brick-and-mortar destination. She is also an active and valuable member of my Level Up Mastermind and Retailer’s Inner Circle. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to turn dreams into actionable plans (or your online shop into a successful brick and mortar!), this episode is packed with insights just for you. Let’s dive in!

Key Highlights: 

  • Planning for Success: How simple planning eased anxiety and built confidence in Chris’s retail journey.
  • Brick and Mortar Mastery: The challenges and wins of opening a physical store after starting online.
  • Community Impact: How creating a vibrant, local business can uplift small towns – and YOU can be a part of that!
  • Marketing Tips: Chris talks about her experience using design, events, and even billboards to attract customers and build a destination business.
  • Balancing Introversion and Leadership: Chris’s insights on navigating personal challenges as a retail entrepreneur.

Actionable Takeaways for Retailers

  • Plan Events to Build Buzz: Create signature events or demos around quieter seasons to bring traffic to your store.
  • Employ Multiple Revenue Streams: You can earn revenue with both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce options to build stability and reach more customers.

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 244 | Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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About Chris and Loopy Wool:

Chris is the owner of Loopy Wool, a fibre art studio in Salisbury, New Brunswick. Chris was a rug hooker first but her love extends to all fibre art now. Loopy Wool opened less than a year ago. 

Follow along with Chris and her business: Loopy Wool: Instagram | Website | Facebook

Related podcasts we think you’d like:

Episode 55: Unscalable Conversations: A Free, Simple, and Powerful Marketing Tool to Use

Episode 69: Becoming a Destination Shop

Episode 143: How to Plan and Host Successful Events and Promotions in Your Shop

About Your Host, Wendy Batten:

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of The Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/

For more support from Wendy:

Retailer’s Inner Circle – Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Wendy’s FREE Resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.

Subscribe and Review in iTunes:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rock star, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those reviews help other retailers find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!

Behind the Counter: Creating Customer Joy in Retail with Kim Williams of The Polka Dot Press | Episode 243

Behind the Counter: Creating Customer Joy in Retail with Kim Williams of The Polka Dot Press | Episode 243

 Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 243 | Behind the Counter: Creating Customer Joy in Retail with Kim Williams of The Polka Dot Press | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 243 | Behind the Counter: Creating Customer Joy in Retail with Kim Williams of The Polka Dot Press | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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With Retail Coach Wendy Batten

 

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Listen on:  Apple Podcasts |Spotify | Radio Republic | YouTube | PlayerFM | Stitcher | iHeartRadio

In This Episode: 

What’s the secret to running a retail business that feels like home and keeps customers coming back? In this episode of the podcast, I sat down with powerhouse and retail expert Kim Williams of The Polka Dot Press in Tallahassee, Florida – and we are answering that question and so much more. Get ready to be inspired! 

With over 21 years of retail experience and a knack for social media marketing, Kim shares actionable tips for retailers, heartfelt stories, and strategies that every independent retailer can use. From training staff to balancing a side business, Kim’s insights are a must-hear for retailers looking to stand out in 2025.

Episode Highlights: 

  • Kim’s Retail Journey: From a home-based stationery line to a thriving brick-and-mortar stationery and gift shop, learn how Kim evolved her business over two decades.
  • Hospitality in Retail: The beauty of treating your shop like your home and creating a welcoming experience for customers. Your shop should feel like your happy place!

“Treat your shop like your home, and your customers will feel like family.” -Kim Williams

  • Staff Training Secrets: How Kim uses a “Disney Main Street” analogy to keep her team and customers engaged and her shop dynamic. Listen in for some really fun secrets her staff uses to make the customer experience at The Polka Dot Press better!
  • Smart Transitions: The bold move to move from custom services and focus on curated, ready-to-sell products.
  • Additional Revenue Stream Success: How Kim invested in her love for social media marketing: taking on clients and adding revenue.
  • Social Media Success: Why relationships matter more than algorithms and how consistency can transform your online presence.

“Relationships over algorithms—that’s the key to social media success.” -Kim Williams

  • Balancing Act: How Kim juggles a successful retail business and a growing social media agency.

Actionable Takeaways: 

  • Embrace “consumable gifts” for products that delight and don’t add clutter.
  • Use open-ended questions like, “What brings you in today?” to spark meaningful customer interactions.
  • Consistency is key on social media to maintain visibility and build trust with your audience.

Creative Shop Talk Podcast Episode 243 | Behind the Counter: Creating Customer Joy in Retail with Kim Williams of The Polka Dot Press | with Retail Coach Wendy Batten
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Looking for more? Don’t miss these workshops!

Join me for a 4-hour intensive January Retail Reset on January 14th! This is a small workshop where we will be laser-focusing on your business. Feel like you might need to revisit your goals and get clear on what you need to do in 2025? Join me! All of the details are here

If you are dreading making a plan for your retail shop in 2025, I have something for you: Design Your Best Retail Year Ever is available for purchase as a stand-alone workshop (or free for you if you are a member of The Retailer’s Inner Circle program)! 

This workshop has been named a favorite by so many of my clients. It’s truly an invaluable resource that every retail shop owner can use – whether you love to plan or dread it. Grab it today, or join the Retailer’s Inner Circle and it’s included in your membership – along with a “pantry” full of other masterclasses and resources for you to grab when you need them.

About Kim and The Polka Dot Press:

With over 30 years in the retail industry, Kim started her business from her home in 2003 and has since grown it into a thriving gift shop known for its unique gifts and stationery. Recognized as an Outstanding Retail Leader by the Florida Retail Federation in 2012, Kim’s expertise and dedication to customer service make her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their social media presence online.

Follow along with Kim and her businesses: The Polka Dot Press: Instagram | Website and The Buzz Grove: Instagram | Website

Related podcasts we think you’d like:

Episode 239: Behind the Counter: Building the Business You Wish Existed with Jasmine McCue

Episode 221: How to Raise the Bar on Excellence in Retail with Guest Expert Jeffrey Shaw

Episode 204: Behind the Counter: Meet Inner Circle Member Jeanne Terrill

About Your Host, Wendy Batten:

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of The Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. 

Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. 

I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.

When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/

For more support from Wendy:

Retailer’s Inner Circle – Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Wendy’s FREE Resources for shop owners 

Hang out and connect with Wendy on IG 

All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.

Subscribe and Review in iTunes:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I’d love you to consider it. Subscribing means you won’t miss an episode! Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

If you want to be more of a rock star, I’d love it if you could leave a review over on iTunes as well.  Those reviews help other retailers find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. So grateful for you! Thank you!

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