Thank you for being a loyal listener! In this special, final episode, host Mike Allton shares some big, exciting news about the future of our podcast conversations. We're evolving and bringing everything under one roof to create a single, powerhouse weekly show designed to help social media managers win. Listen to this important announcement to hear all about the new "Social Pulse Podcast" and, most importantly, how you can join us on this new journey. We'll tell you exactly where to find and subscribe to the new show so you don't miss a single future episode. This will be the last episode published on this feed. We can't wait to see you at our new home! Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-pulse-podcast-real-conversations-with-top-social-media-marketers/id1822999008 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5reL3RK98RE69svpKXSAy6?si=nmDl3CkvTZGXuwSf5jniGw YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj761urWw7218XPLpqJ3-WAkBUi-4a5fs Amazon Music & Audible - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5b04105-e265-442a-91d6-ebb407deb008/social-pulse-podcast-real-conversations-with-top-social-media-marketers

Are you struggling to find influencer partnerships that actually drive customers through your doors? You're spending time and budget on collaborations, but when it comes to real foot traffic and measurable sales impact, the results just aren't there. Maybe you've tried working with bigger influencers only to see lots of likes but empty aisles, or perhaps you're wondering if there's a better way to connect with your actual local community. You're not alone - countless retail marketers are wrestling with how to make influencer marketing work for their specific location and customer base. That's exactly what our guest today is here to help with. Lindsey Naber is the Senior Director of Brand Marketing at Rawlings Sporting Goods, where she leads national marketing efforts while working directly with B2B customers including retailers, team dealers, and catalog/internet accounts to ensure proper brand representation across all channels. She's also an Adjunct Professor at Maryville University, was recently named one of the "Rising Star Women Leaders in Consumer Products & Retail for 2025," and recognized as one of "25 Women to Watch in '25" by Team Insight for her fresh perspectives in team sports business. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Lindsey Naber about: 🛍️ Local Partnership Strategy - How to identify and vet micro-influencers who actually influence purchasing decisions in your community. 🛍️ Retailer Empowerment Framework - The specific systems national brands can create to help individual store locations execute successful influencer campaigns. 🛍️ ROI-Driven Collaboration Models - Moving beyond awareness metrics to partnerships that generate measurable foot traffic and sales results. Learn more about Lindsey Naber Connect with Lindsey Naber on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Rawlings Sporting Goods Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Maryvale University Rising Star Women Leaders in Consumer Products in Retail for 2025 25 Women to Watch in ’25 by Team Insight Digi MarCon Bill Doak Mark Twain  Babe Ruth Stan Musial Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/the-retailers-playbook-turning-local-influencers-into-sales-champions Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Have you ever poured your heart into planning the perfect social media campaign or in-person event, only to watch it crash and burn in real-time? That sinking feeling as you realize no one's engaging, no one's showing up, and all your careful preparation was for nothing? It's a nightmare scenario for retail marketers everywhere—but what if these apparent failures could actually become your most valuable assets? What if the very moments that make you want to hide under your desk could be transformed into unexpected marketing wins? That's the challenge that retail marketers face every day: how to pivot quickly when plans go sideways and turn embarrassing moments into golden opportunities. That's exactly what our guest today, Trudi Bartow, has mastered throughout her impressive career. With over 20 years of experience in the gift and home industry, Trudi currently holds a key leadership role at The Unemployed Philosophers Guild, where she oversees sales strategy and team development. As an Executive Board member of the Gift and Home Trade Association and a frequent speaker at industry events, Trudi has transformed countless marketing mishaps into unexpected wins—including the time she turned an embarrassingly empty industry party into a productive photo shoot that filled their next catalog with engaging content. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Trudi Bartow about: 🛍️ The Empty Room Reveal: Trudi shares the full story behind her infamous empty party and how the quick pivot to use the venue for product photography saved the day. 🛍️ Failure As Opportunity: Discover how the most embarrassing social media and marketing mishaps can become your most valuable content and learning experiences. 🛍️ Pivoting With Purpose: Learn the practical framework Trudi uses to quickly reassess situations and transform apparent failures into unexpected marketing assets. Learn more about Trudi Bartow Connect with Trudi Bartow on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Unemployed Philosophers Guild Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Gift and Home Trade Association Gary Vaynerchuk The New York Gift Fair Harry Abrams St. Louis Business Expo Social Media Marketing World Content Marketing World  House of Blues Agorapulse events and webinars Broadway League Social Pulse Community The Morning Brew Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/pivot-or-perish-transform-retail-marketing-failures-into-unexpected-wins Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Are you struggling to build genuine connections with your retail customers in an increasingly digital world? If you're tired of running endless promotional campaigns that seem to fall flat, you're not the only one feeling frustrated. Many retailers find themselves stuck in the cycle of discount-driven marketing, wondering if there's a better way to attract and engage customers. What if there were a strategy that could not only triple your web traffic but also build lasting customer relationships before they even walk through your doors? That's exactly what our guest Craig Daniels achieved as Marketing Director at Furniture Fair. Taking the helm in January 2020, Craig transformed their marketing approach from traditional promotional advertising to a trust-based content strategy that has revolutionized their customer relationships. Under his leadership, Furniture Fair has become a trusted voice in the furniture industry, producing multiple pieces of educational content weekly and seeing organic traffic grow from 20% to 40% of their total website visitors. His innovative approach to blending educational content with relationship-based selling has not only improved traffic but also increased average order values and customer satisfaction. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Craig Daniels about: 🛍️ Content Strategy Evolution - How shifting from promotional to educational content transformed their marketing results and customer relationships 🛍️ Trust-Building Framework - The systematic approach to creating content that answers customer questions and builds confidence before the first store visit 🛍️ Measurable Business Impact - The specific ways educational content improved web traffic, sales metrics, and customer satisfaction scores Learn more about Craig Daniels Connect with Craig Daniels on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Furniture Fair Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Marcus Sheridan  They Ask, You Answer: A Revolutionary Approach to Inbound Sales, Content Marketing, and Today's Digital Consumer Content Marketing World Yale Appliance Smith Brothers SEMrush  Google Analytics Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/how-furniture-fair-tripled-web-traffic-through-trust-based-content-marketing Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn.Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Have you ever wondered why some social media posts seem to instantly connect with audiences while others fall flat? What if the secret to social media success isn't just about algorithms and hashtags, but about understanding the deeper psychological needs and motivations of your audience? Every day, retail marketers struggle to cut through the noise and make meaningful connections on social media, often focusing on surface-level metrics while missing the fundamental human elements that drive engagement and conversion. That's exactly what we're diving into today with our fascinating guest, Lisa Wells. Lisa brings a unique perspective to retail social media marketing, combining her Master's in Psychology and experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist with her role as owner of Geneva Flooring, a successful retail flooring business in San Diego. As a former therapist who worked with diverse populations in schools, police departments, and halfway houses, Lisa now applies her deep understanding of human behavior to create compelling social media content and build authentic customer relationships. She's also served as President of the San Diego County Floor Covering Association and brings over a decade of retail leadership experience to our conversation. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Lisa Wells about: 🛍️ Psychology of Connection: Understanding how therapeutic communication principles can transform social media engagement 🛍️ Customer Behavior Insights: Leveraging psychological understanding to create content that resonates with retail audiences 🛍️ Strategic Relationship Building: Applying counseling techniques to develop stronger customer relationships through social platforms Learn more about Lisa Wells Connect with Lisa Wells on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Geneva Flooring Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo San Diego County Floor Covering Association Marcus Sheridan  They Ask You Answer Jay Baer  Talk Triggers: The Complete Guide to Creating Customers with Word of Mouth Vimeo Dropbox Tony Hernandez Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/from-therapist-to-retail-owner-psychological-secrets-for-social-media-success Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn.Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike

Have you ever felt like your hands are tied behind your back when trying to market your retail business? Imagine trying to build a brand when traditional advertising channels are closed to you, social media platforms regularly shut down your accounts, and payment processors won't touch your industry. That's exactly what marketers in the cannabis industry face every single day. How do you reach your target audience when the most effective channels are off-limits? How do you build brand awareness when you can't run Facebook ads or Google search campaigns? These challenges might seem insurmountable, but they've forced cannabis marketers to become some of the most innovative and resourceful professionals in the retail space. Today's guest knows these struggles intimately and has developed remarkable strategies to overcome them. Join us as we welcome Roman Nunez, Marketing Director at KANNA dispensary, who brings a fascinating blend of tech startup experience and creative artistry to the cannabis industry. Roman isn't just a marketing professional – he's also a music producer, DJ, skateboarder, and graffiti artist who has leveraged his diverse creative background to build KANNA's brand voice from the ground up. His unique approach to authentic marketing in a heavily restricted industry offers valuable lessons for any retail marketer facing challenges with regulations, platform limitations, or audience targeting. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Roman Nunez about: 🛍️ Creative Problem Solving. Roman explains how his background in music production, DJing, and graffiti art informs his approach to circumventing marketing restrictions. 🛍️ Authentic Brand Building. Discover how restrictions can actually force marketers to develop more genuine connections with their target audience. 🛍️ Transferable Marketing Tactics. Learn which strategies from Roman's tech startup experience successfully translate to the highly regulated cannabis industry. Learn more about Roman Nunez Connect with Roman Nunez on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode KANNA Connect with Kanna on Instagram Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Nike Chanel Apple Yelp Eat 24 GrubHub The Secret Sauce of Retail Social Media: Empowering Employee Voices Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/brand-building-in-the-cannabis-industry Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Have you been struggling to break through the noise and connect with customers who truly value what your retail brand offers? Maybe you've been casting a wide net, hoping to capture as many potential customers as possible, only to find that your message isn't resonating with anyone in particular. What if the key to growing your retail business isn't reaching more people, but reaching exactly the right people? This is the challenge facing so many retail marketers today - you're trying to be everything to everyone, and consequently becoming nothing special to anyone. Your marketing budget stretches thinner each quarter while your engagement metrics barely budge. You watch as smaller, more focused brands seem to create passionate customer communities almost overnight, and wonder what they know that you don't. That's exactly what our guest today specializes in solving. Julie Lichtenberg is a marketing powerhouse who has mastered the art of identifying and connecting with niche audiences in innovative ways that drive real business results. As Marketing & Communications Director at Crown Bees, Julie has implemented strategies that increased customer engagement by 30% through her unique approach to audience targeting. She's positioned her company as a leader in the eco-friendly movement by identifying precisely the right audience segments and creating meaningful connections with them. Julie's expertise in finding those perfect micro-audiences and leveraging them for macro-growth is exactly what many retail marketers need to transform their approach. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Julie Lichtenberg about: 🛍️ Beyond demographic basics - How psychographic and behavioral data can reveal niche audience opportunities that traditional demographic targeting misses. 🛍️ Community-building strategies - Methods for converting identified niche audiences into engaged brand communities that drive sustainable growth. 🛍️ Measurement that matters - Approaches to tracking the true business impact of specialized audience targeting beyond standard metrics. Learn more about Julie Lichtenberg Connect with Julie Lichtenberg on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Crown Bees Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo IMDB Hootsuite Washington State PTA Reddit YouTube Channel: Crown Bees - The Solitary Bee Specialists Buzz on Bees Podcast Bee-ware of These Mishaps: Epic Mason Bee Raising Mistakes www.crownbees.com SEMrush Rand Fishkin Spark Toro Zoho CoSchedule Hootsuite Classmates.com MA Puget Sound Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/micro-audiences-macro-results-leveraging-niche-markets-for-retail-growth Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Have you ever stepped into a new role in an unfamiliar industry and wondered how you'll ever get up to speed? You're not alone. This is a challenge many marketers face, and it requires acquiring mountains of industry knowledge quickly. How can you immerse yourself effectively in the ways of a new segment when every industry has its unique traits, and every audience its distinct needs? Learning to read the market winds, understanding your customer’s desires, and navigating this transition are no small feats. The pressure to deliver results can feel insurmountable when you're still finding your footing. But that's exactly what our guest today, Staci O’Prey, excels at. With her extensive background in diverse industries and a proven aptitude for rapidly adapting marketing strategies, Staci is here to shed light on this pivotal challenge. As a Field Marketing Manager at Coldwell Banker Realty, she has mastered the art of getting into the nitty-gritty of new sectors swiftly and effectively, all while maintaining her signature creative problem-solving approach. Staci's journey offers remarkable insights and strategies for any marketer stepping into new territories. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Staci O’Prey about: Rapid Industry Insight: Staci's proven methods for quickly gaining deep industry knowledge and understanding customer bases. Customer-Centric Adaptation: Her strategies for aligning marketing efforts with audience motivations and pain points in new sectors. Efficient Testing: How Staci approaches testing different platforms and strategies, ensuring effectiveness within budget constraints. Learn more about Staci O'Prey: Connect with Staci O'Prey on LinkedIn Connect with Staci O'Prey on Facebook Connect with Staci O'Prey on Instagram Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode: Coldwell Banker Realty Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Deep research  ChatGPT  Gemini.  Mari Smith  Social Media Examiner Google Alerts Episode: The Future of Facebook Marketing for Retail Ft. Mari Smith Jen Herman Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/fast-track-your-industry-knowledge-a-marketing-leaders-guide-to-quick-adaptation Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Are you stuck in a comfortable routine with your social media marketing? Sure, your current strategy works fine, but deep down, you know you're playing it safe. Every day, you see other brands pushing boundaries and capturing attention while you stick to the same tried-and-true formulas. You worry that if you don't innovate, you'll eventually become invisible to your audience, but the fear of changing what's working holds you back. How do you break free from this cycle and push your marketing to new heights without risking everything you've built? Today's guest knows exactly how to navigate this challenge. Joining us is Nathaniel Jones, Director of Marketing at Farm & Home Supply, where he's built a reputation for bold, innovative campaigns that consistently capture customer attention. With nearly two decades of experience in marketing and digital strategy, Nathaniel has transformed multiple retail brands through his creative approach to consumer engagement. From viral Super Bowl commercials to breakthrough social media campaigns, he's mastered the art of calculated risk-taking in retail marketing, and today he's here to share his insights on how you can do the same. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Nathaniel Jones about: 🛍️ Strategic Risk-Taking: Learn how to identify and execute innovative marketing ideas that push boundaries while maintaining brand integrity 🛍️ Innovation Framework: Discover a practical system for consistently generating fresh content ideas that capture attention without alienating your core audience 🛍️ Measurement Mindset: Understanding how to evaluate the success of innovative campaigns and use data to refine your creative approach Learn more about Nathaniel Jones Connect with Nathaniel Jones on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Farm & Home Supply Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Gary Vaynerchuk Chat GPT AI for Business Leaders: The AI Hat Podcast AI Work Buddy: The Ultimate AI-Powered Assistant for Professionals How to Turn C-Suite Skeptics Into Social Media Champions CapCut Bytedance  TikTok TikTok Trends Opus Clip Wondershare Filmora The Hustle  Stacked Marketer Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/a-retail-marketers-guide-to-purposeful-innovation Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Are you tired of hitting a wall every time you try to get leadership buy-in for your social media initiatives? If you're managing social media for a retail brand, you've probably experienced that frustrating moment when you're passionately explaining the potential impact of a new campaign, only to be met with skeptical looks and questions about ROI. You know the value is there. You see the engagement, the community building, the customer service wins. But translating those metrics into language that resonates with the C-suite? That's where things get tricky. Maybe you've heard responses like 'Social media is just for kids' or 'We can't measure the real impact on our bottom line.' The disconnect between what you know social media can achieve and what your leadership believes it can do creates a constant uphill battle. But what if you could bridge that gap? What if you could transform those skeptical executives into your biggest social media champions? That's exactly what we're diving into today with our expert guest. With over 15 years in the outdoor and hunting industry, Adam Buchanan has mastered the art of building internal support for social media initiatives. Starting with organic content and community management, and now focusing on paid, owned, and earned media at Camofire/BlackOvis, Adam has successfully navigated the journey from social media skepticism to strategic investment. His experience in transforming leadership perspectives and building data-driven cases for social media investment makes him the perfect guide for this crucial conversation. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Adam Buchanan about: 🛍️ Data-Driven Persuasion: Learn how to use metrics and analytics to build compelling cases that resonate with leadership. 🛍️ Strategic Communication: Master the art of translating social media success into business impact language that executives understand. 🛍️ Building Champions: Discover proven techniques for transforming skeptical leaders into social media advocates. Learn more about Adam Buchanan Connect with Adam Buchanan on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode BlackOvis.com Camofire Cabela's Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Walmart Target Neiman Marcus. Kendall Card Dick's Sporting Goods Sitka Mystery Ranch Crispi Boots Patagonia Google Analytics Magento platform Hunt Expo Hydro Flask Columbia Sportswear, Convince and Convert An ebook: Talk Triggers by Jay Baer Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/converting-the-c-suite Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

You're walking through a store when suddenly a product stops you in your tracks. Something about it speaks to you, draws you in, and makes you reach for your wallet. That's not an accident – it's retail psychology at work. While thousands of new products launch every day, only a select few have that magnetic pull that turns browsers into buyers. What's their secret? Today, we're pulling back the curtain on retail psychology with Michael Casey, an innovative product developer who has been creating retail success stories since 1983. His insights can inform both product development, as well as how we position and market products online, while his products, including the Ab Doer, have achieved global success and earned recognition from the Electronic Retail Association. From Walmart shelves to international TV campaigns, Michael has mastered the art of creating products that make shoppers say "I need this." Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton talked to Michael Casey about: 🛍️ Discover the specific psychological triggers that make products irresistible to shoppers and learn how to incorporate these elements into your product development process. 🛍️ Learn practical strategies for product positioning and packaging that capture attention in crowded retail environments and convert browsers into buyers. 🛍️ Understand how to validate product appeal before major retail launches, saving time and resources while maximizing chances of success. Learn more about Michael Casey Connect with Michael Casey on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Michael Casey Innovations Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Amazon  Walmart Litehouse pools TikTok Shop  REDtone Agorapulse Now Supports Threads Bluesky Michael Casey Innovations  Inventors Pathway Kajabi platform Jungle Scout URL Genius Google Analytics Shopify Emeril Lagasse Cookware line Walgreen CBS Church and Dwight Harry's Men's Club Dollar Shave Club Beatles Bare Minerals QVC watching them live Idea Village  Chelsea Stanley Black and Decker Home Depot Lowe's Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/a-retail-psychology-masterclass Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Every social media manager knows the feeling. You post what seems like the perfect piece of content. The likes start rolling in, the comments are flowing, and your reach is through the roof. But then comes that dreaded question from leadership: 'What does this mean for our bottom line?' For too many retail brands, social media success is still being measured by vanity metrics - likes, followers, and reach. But what if there was a better way? What if you could definitively show how your social media efforts are driving real business results? What if you could transform your social media presence from a cost center into a revenue-generating machine? That's exactly what our guest today has accomplished. Katie Murphy, Head of Social Media at Early Years Resources, has revolutionized how her company approaches social media measurement, driving a stunning 341% increase in direct revenue from social media and a 236% increase in conversions. Today, she's here to share exactly how she did it, and how you can too. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Katie Murphy about: 🛍️ Discover how to translate social media metrics into revenue figures that leadership actually cares about - no more justifying your existence with follower counts! 🛍️ Learn the exact framework one retail brand used to increase social media revenue by 341% by focusing on the metrics that truly matter. 🛍️ Get practical tips for building a measurement system that connects your daily social media activities directly to your company's bottom line. Learn more about Katie Murphy Connect with Katie Murphy on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Early Years Resources Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Facebook Pixel Google Analytics  Pinterest Pixel Brayola Bluesky Adam Mosseri's Instagram live Google Analytics Buffer TikTok Insights Meta Business Suite TikTok Shop Sophie Miller from Pretty Little Marketer Annie-Mai Hodge from Girl Power Marketing Hootsuite blog Sprout Social blog Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/beyond-likes-how-one-retail-brand-turned-social-media-into-a-revenue-machine Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Raise your hand if this sounds familiar: You've got an amazing idea for your company's social media. Maybe it's a fun TikTok series, or a bold new approach to customer engagement. You're excited. You've done your homework. But the moment you present it, you hear those dreaded words: 'We can't do that.' It's frustrating, right? That constant wall of 'no' can make even the most passionate social media manager feel stuck and defeated. But here's the thing - you're not alone, and more importantly, there are proven ways to break through that resistance. That's exactly what we're diving into today with our guest, Chelsea Napolitano. With over ten years of experience leading social media and influencer marketing for Fortune 500 brands, Chelsea has mastered the art of driving change in risk-averse environments. As a strategic communications expert at Stanley Black & Decker, she's successfully transformed social media operations from outsourced to in-house, launched innovative community management programs, and pushed the boundaries of what's possible in corporate social media – all within traditionally conservative environments. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Chelsea Napolitano about: 🛍️ Practical strategies for building cross-functional partnerships that turn skeptics into advocates for your social media initiatives 🛍️ How to present innovative ideas in a way that makes them feel less risky to stakeholders 🛍️ Specific techniques for proving the value of new social approaches through calculated risks and measurable results Learn more about Chelsea Napolitano Connect with Chelsea Napolitano on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Stanley Black & Decker Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Amazon Blog post : Social Media Dashboards: Features That You Need Blog post: Three Social Listening Case Studies to Motivate You Google Plus Social Pulse community on Facebook Chris Voss Agorapulse blog Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/overcoming-the-culture-of-no-a-social-media-managers-guide-to-change Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

If you're a retail brand on social media, you've probably been watching the evolution of Threads since its launch last summer. Maybe you created an account early on but weren't sure what to do with it. Maybe you're still on the fence about whether it's worth your time. Or maybe you've been wondering if you've already missed the boat. The truth is, while platforms like Instagram and TikTok are incredibly saturated, making it harder and harder for brands to stand out, Threads represents a unique opportunity. It's like getting a chance to be on Instagram in 2012 or TikTok in 2019. The potential for organic reach, authentic engagement, and community building is extraordinary - but this window of opportunity won't last forever. That's exactly why we've brought in today's guest. Milou Pietersz is the founder of Simply Multimedia, a successful marketing agency that's helping brands navigate the ever-evolving social media landscape. As a content creator herself, with over 60,000 Instagram followers and 10,000 YouTube subscribers, Milou brings both strategic insight and hands-on experience to the table. Originally from the Netherlands and now based in the United States, she brings a unique global perspective to digital marketing, and today, she's here to help us understand why Threads might be the opportunity your retail brand has been waiting for. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Milou Pietersz about: 🛍️ Early Adoption Strategy: Learn specific tactics to establish your retail brand on Threads while organic reach is high and competition is low. 🛍️ Content Optimization: Discover how to adapt your retail content for Threads' unique environment while maintaining brand voice. 🛍️ Resource Management: Get practical insights on incorporating Threads into your existing social strategy without overwhelming your team. Learn more about Milou Pietersz Connect with Milou Pietersz on LinkedIn Connect with Milou Pietersz on X Connect with Milou Pietersz on Threads Connect with Milou Pietersz on Youtube Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Simply Multimedia Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Andrew Davis Kim Garst Wendy's bit.ly Thread's desktop Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/retail-edition/why-your-retail-brand-needs-to-be-on-threads-now-before-your-competition Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

In today's social media landscape, brands are spending millions on influencer partnerships and polished content. But what if the most authentic and engaging voices for your brand are already on your payroll? The challenge for many retail marketers is cutting through the noise on social media and establishing genuine connections with their audience. While mega-influencers and celebrity endorsements might generate buzz, they often lack the authenticity and local credibility that today's consumers crave. That's why more and more retail brands are discovering that their own employees - the people who live and breathe their brand values every day - can be their most powerful asset on social media. But how do you successfully implement an employee advocacy program? How do you empower your team members to become authentic brand voices while maintaining consistency and quality? Today's guest knows exactly how to unlock this potential. Jamie Collins, a marketing leader at Dierbergs Markets, has successfully transformed their social media strategy by putting their employees at the center of their content. She'll share how they've achieved higher engagement, stronger community connections, and more authentic brand storytelling by empowering their team members to share their stories. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Jamie Collins about: 🛍️ The Authenticity Blueprint: Learn the specific framework Dierbergs Markets uses to identify, empower, and support employees in creating genuine social media content that resonates with their local community. 🛍️ Guidelines Without Handcuffs: Discover how to create social media guidelines that protect your brand while giving employees the creative freedom they need to share authentic stories and experiences. 🛍️ Measuring What Matters: Understand the metrics and benchmarks that truly indicate success in employee advocacy programs, beyond just likes and follows, and how to tie social engagement to business objectives. Learn more about Jamie Collins Connect with Jamie Collins on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Dierbergs Markets Dierbergs Markets On Linkedin Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Greg Dierberg Love Pop Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/retail-industry/retail-social-media-empowering-employee-voices Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Are you part of a retail business struggling to move away from traditional newspaper and magazine advertisements? Feeling overwhelmed by the shift to digital marketing and social media? You're not alone. Many brick-and-mortar stores face significant resistance to change. They rely on methods they’ve known for years, leaving them hesitant to embrace new platforms and strategies. This hesitation can leave your business lagging behind, missing out on the vast potential and engagement that social media offers. How do you break through these barriers and convince your team to embrace this change? Today's guest, Courtney McCoy, has successfully navigated this transition, turning resistance into results. As a seasoned social media manager, Courtney took a brick-and-mortar store from relying solely on print ads to achieving a 700% increase in organic reach through social media. Her expertise has brought life and engagement to traditional retail, making her a perfect guide for anyone facing this challenge. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Courtney McCoy about: 🛍️ Overcoming Resistance to Change: Gain insights into convincing leadership and staff to embrace social media marketing. 🛍️ Effective Content Strategies: Learn about content creation tactics that drive significant engagement and organic reach. 🛍️ Community and Ad Management: Understand the importance of community management and running successful traffic ad campaigns. Learn more about Courtney McCoy Connect with Courtney McCoy on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Southeastern Salvage Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/from-print-to-pixels-how-to-bring-old-school-retail-into-the-digital-age Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike

Have you ever found yourself frustrated by the ever-changing algorithms of social media? Or perhaps, you’ve witnessed fluctuating engagement rates that left you scratching your head? These challenges are all too familiar for social media marketers, especially in the retail sector. Navigating these hurdles requires not just technical know-how but also patience, passion, and a bit of intuition. Our guest today, Sofia Vinitskaia, is no stranger to these challenges. As a marketing professional at JOELLE Collection, Sofia has faced and conquered numerous obstacles, from algorithm changes and influencer content delays to the unprecedented disruptions caused by COVID-19. Her journey offers invaluable insights and lessons on turning social media challenges into marketing wins. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Sofia Vinitskaia about: ♉️Strategies for Overcoming Social Media Challenges: Practical tactics for dealing with algorithm changes, fluctuating engagement rates, and influencer content delays. ♉️The Importance of Patience and Passion: How patience and passion can help overcome social media marketing hurdles and lead to successful campaigns. ♉️Adapting to Crises and Unique Perspectives: Adapting social media strategies during crises like COVID-19 and leveraging unique backgrounds, such as economics, in marketing. Learn more about Sofia Vinitskaia Connect with Sofia Vinitskaia on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Joelle Collection Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Love Pop Threads Episode With Potter's Resorts: How to Turn a Crisis Into a Growth Opportunity Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/overcoming-social-media-setbacks-insights-in-retail Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Have you ever watched a commercial or read a blog post that really resonated with you, that told a story so compelling it made you feel connected to a brand on a personal level? That's the power of storytelling in marketing. For retail brands, crafting compelling narratives is more than just a strategy—it's a way to build strong, emotional connections with consumers. Today's episode is all about storytelling in retail content marketing. We'll explore how to move beyond simply promoting products to creating stories that captivate and engage your audience. Our guest, Kaleigh Moore, is a seasoned content marketer who specializes in blog content creation and editing for retail and eCommerce brands. She’s here to share her insights and experiences on how storytelling can transform your marketing efforts. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Kaleigh Moore about: 🛍️ The Importance of Storytelling in Retail Marketing: Listeners will understand why storytelling is crucial for retail brands and how it helps build strong emotional connections with consumers. 🛍️ Elements of a Compelling Retail Story: Insights into what makes a compelling story for retail content marketing, including the balance between promotional content and engaging narratives. 🛍️ Practical Tips for Smaller Brands: Practical advice on how smaller retail brands can leverage storytelling effectively in their content marketing, even with limited budgets. Learn more about Kaleigh Moore Connect with Kaleigh Moore on LinkedIn Connect with Kaleigh Moore on X Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Kaleigh Moore Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Forbes Vogue Business Adweek Mad Men Curie Sarah Moret Shark Tank Grace Clark Miri Rodriguez's book: Brand Storytelling AI and Marketing Unpacked show, interview with Chris Penn Fracture SafeLite Auto Repair Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/understanding-the-role-of-storytelling-for-successful-retail-marketing Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Imagine having a front-row seat to the marketing strategies of some of the biggest retail brands in the world. You've seen their campaigns, bought their products, and maybe even wondered what goes on behind the scenes. What makes certain strategies soar while others fail to take flight? Today, we're diving deep into the world of retail marketing with insights from someone who’s been at the helm of campaigns for brands like Crocs, KSwiss, and the Getty Museum Store. What does it take to make a retail brand truly stand out? What marketing tactics lead to epic victories, and which ones missed the mark? These are the questions we’re diving into with our guest, Erik Huberman. Erik is the CEO and Founder of Hawke Media, a marketing powerhouse known for its innovative and data-driven approach. Erik has seen first-hand what works and what doesn't when it comes to retail marketing. From viral campaigns to behind-the-scenes challenges, he's here to share insights and lessons learned from helping some of the most recognized retail brands achieve their marketing goals. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Erik Huberman about: ♉️Insights into Successful Retail Marketing Strategies: Learn what marketing tactics have worked well for major retail brands like Crocs and KSwiss. ♉️Learning from Challenges and Failures: Hear candid stories about campaigns that didn’t go as planned and the lessons learned. ♉️The Role of Data and Influencer Marketing: Understand the importance of data-driven strategies and influencer marketing for retail brands. Learn more about Erik Huberman Connect with Erik Huberman on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Hawke Media Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Crocs K Swiss Getty Museum Swag of the Month Science Dollar Shave Club Ellie Ballytotal Fitness Target Love Pop Hawke AI Bombas Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/success-and-struggle-marketing-insights-from-major-retail-brands Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.

Imagine walking into a store where every promotional sign you see is tailored just for you, recommending exactly what you need based on your past purchases and preferences. Now, picture that level of personalization extending to your online shopping experience. This isn't a distant future scenario but a present-day reality thanks to the power of generative AI in retail media networks. Major players like Amazon, Microsoft, and Walmart are leading this transformation, showcasing the monumental shifts in enhancing operations and revolutionizing customer experiences. But what exactly is generative AI, and how is it being applied in retail media networks? Does it really hold the power to change the way retailers interact with customers? And more importantly, how can other brands, including smaller retail media networks, tap into this technology to stay competitive? Our guest today is Eva Dong, a seasoned expert with a decade of AI and digital marketing experience. Eva has held transformative leadership positions at McKinsey & Company and Visa Inc., and is now an entrepreneur dedicated to bringing AI-driven marketing solutions to brands around the world. Eva, welcome to the show! We're excited to dive into the transformative power of Gen AI in retail media networks and how brands can leverage this technology to enhance their customer experiences and operations. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Eva Dong about: ♉️Understanding the Role of Generative AI in Enhancing Customer Experiences: Listeners will gain insights into how generative AI is being used by leading companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Walmart to revolutionize customer interactions and engagement through personalized recommendations and tailored experiences. ♉️Practical Steps for Adopting AI in Retail Media Networks: The episode will offer actionable advice for smaller retail media networks on initial steps to integrate AI, including the necessary infrastructure, potential challenges, and strategies for effective implementation. ♉️The Future of AI in Retail Marketing: Eva Dong will share her expert perspective on the future role of AI in retail, including the impact on both front-end customer engagement and back-end operational efficiency, helping listeners stay ahead of the curve in AI-driven marketing innovations. Learn more about Eva Dong Connect with Eva Dong on LinkedIn Connect with Eva Dong on X Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode McKinsey & Co Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo Visa ChatGPT Dall-E Midjourney Sora A Linkedin post by Eva Dong Eva Dong: AI-driven marketing, transforming retail media networks with Gen AI Walmart Plus Katie Richman Loud Labs The Social Media Hat Podcast: AI and Marketing Impact The episode with Feedonomics Azure Personalizer A newsletter: Smart AI Marketing Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/revolutionizing-retail-making-sense-of-gen-ai-in-retail-media-networks Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.