Finally, a real conversations about the Corporate-Store Disconnect in Retail in 2025.In this episode, Bekki Cait, a retail consultant, and Matt Copeland, a seasoned store manager, dive deep into the stark divide between corporate and store teams in the retail industry of 2025.

Despite advances in AI and technology, failed initiatives and mounting frustrations highlight a fundamental disconnect that costs retailers millions.

Join us as we unpack critical paradoxes like problematic communication systems, the mission vs. metrics dilemma, and brand protection vs. empowerment.

Learn how this disconnect stems from a lack of trust and psychological safety, threatening both financial success and human well-being in retail.

If you care about creating successful stores and happy customers, you don't want to miss this candid conversation.00:00 Introduction: The Corporate-Store Disconnect00:45 Dear Corporate & Store Leaders02:26 The Store Reality Gap10:51 Problematic Communications Systems20:26 The Mission vs. Metrics Paradox27:05 The Brand Protection vs. Empowerment Paradox30:58 Good Customer Service35:09 Authenticity and Team Morale38:06 The Trust and Safety Gap45:17 The Need for Psychological Safety46:31 Conclusion: Addressing the Disconnect