The Retail Pilot

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, Sarah Davis and Ben Hemminger, co-founders of Fashionphile, share the remarkable journey of building the largest online platform for buying and selling ultra-luxury handbags and accessories in the U.S. From its beginnings as a small eBay shop in 1999 to a multimillion-dollar brand with flagship locations in New York and California, Fashionphile has become a pioneer in luxury re-commerce.Sarah and Ben open up about the early challenges of earning consumer trust, overcoming the stigma around pre-owned luxury, and building a model based on authenticity, innovation, and customer experience.This episode dives into the mechanics of luxury resale, from authentication and pricing to the customer behaviors driving growth. Sarah and Ben also share candid insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and what it takes to scale a business from a basement to a global stage while staying true to their vision of making pre-owned luxury both legitimate and desirable.Together, Sarah and Ben discuss:• The origins of Fashionphile and how they recognized the opportunity in luxury resale• The importance of authenticity and dispelling myths about pre-owned goods• How a 90210 address and Rodeo Drive proximity built credibility with customers• The difference between Fashionphile’s model and competitors like The RealReal and Rebag• Why their buyout approach creates stronger customer trust and profitability• The partnership with Neiman Marcus and now Saks Global, and how it has fueled growth• Their vision for international expansion and the untapped opportunities in luxury re-commerce• Leadership lessons from building a family business and keeping a team motivated by visionTune in now to hear how Fashionphile is transforming the way the world thinks about luxury resale. And remember — subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Retail Pilot.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it take to lead an iconic luxury brand into the future while navigating industry disruption, shifting consumer expectations, and bold strategic moves? For Marc Metrick, CEO of Saks Global, it is about scale, innovation, and putting the customer at the center of every decision. From steering Saks through its $2.7 billion acquisition of Neiman Marcus Group to launching “The Art of You,” Marc is redefining what luxury retail looks like in a digital-first world.In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we explore how Saks is transforming its business model, leveraging data and partnerships with Salesforce. ARG and Amazon, and building a new vision of personalization that resonates with today’s luxury consumer. Marc and I had a brief discussion around Saks product being available on Amazon. He is incredibly excited about their Amazon business (only partial catalog available). Saks Global is delivering new customers with high value. Due to certain statistics that we discussed, we had to eliminate the segment. In this conversation, Marc shares:• The strategic logic behind combining Saks, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman into one powerhouse• How “The Art of You” is taking personalization beyond buzzwords to create truly individualized shopping experiences• The role of technology, AI, and data in modernizing operations and elevating the customer journey• What partnerships with Amazon and Salesforce have unlocked in terms of scale, efficiency, and innovation• How Saks is rebuilding trust with vendors and strengthening relationships with brand partners• Why the US is poised to be the fastest growing luxury market in the world• His optimism about a new generation of digitally native, experience driven luxury consumersWhether you are a retail executive, brand strategist, or simply fascinated by the future of luxury, this episode offers a rare inside look at how one of the industry’s most influential leaders is reshaping the way we think about scale, personalization, and the customer experience.If you enjoyed this conversation, follow and rate the show and share this episode with someone who is curious about the future of luxury retail. The next big insight could be one listen away.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it take to stay relevant in the fast-moving world of Gen Z and Gen Alpha? For Brieane Olson, CEO of PacSun, it’s all about purpose, co-creation, and bold innovation. From signing the Jenner sisters before they became household names to bringing PacSun into Roblox and TikTok Shop, Breanne has made youth culture the company’s North Star.In this episode of The Retail Pilot, co-hosted by Melissa Gonzalez, we dive deep into how PacSun evolved from a legacy mall brand to a billion-dollar leader in digital-first, Gen Z–centric fashion and what other retailers can learn from their fearless approach.In this conversation, Brieane shares:Her start in retail at age 15 and journey to the CEO seatHow co-creation with micro-creators is driving viral sales and brand affinityThe power of music, festivals, and physical retail in the digital ageHow PacSun uses AI across its stores, associate experience, and creative strategyThe evolving role of Gen Alpha and why brands must meet them where they areWhy social commerce is no longer optional and how to build it authenticallyHer leadership philosophy rooted in purpose, curiosity, and constant evolutionWhether you're a retail executive, marketer, founder, or just obsessed with youth culture trends, this episode is full of actionable insights on what it takes to lead with relevance, empathy, and a fearless willingness to evolve.If you loved this conversation, don’t forget to follow and rate the show, and share this episode with someone who’s building the next big thing in retail. Your next favorite strategy might just be one listen away.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when a former lawyer walks out of a high-end jewelry store and into a tattoo parlor—and realizes neither is the right fit? You get Studs—a game-changing brand that’s reinventing the ear piercing and jewelry experience for a new generation of consumers.In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we sit down with Anna Harman, co-founder and CEO of Studs, to explore how she went from litigation and asset management to building one of the most profitable and experiential brick-and-mortar concepts in retail. With over 30 locations and sky-high four-wall profits, Studs is challenging legacy brands and tattoo shops alike with its safe, stylish, and millennial-friendly approach to ear piercing.Anna shares insights on:Her unlikely journey from law school to launching StudsThe “aha” moment that sparked the ideaWhat makes Studs profitable from day oneThe real competitors (hint: it’s not who you think)How she applies startup and retail incubator lessons to build a brand with soulWhy lab-grown diamonds and curated collabs are driving Gen Z and millennial loyaltyHer transparent, feedback-forward leadership style and how it shapes team cultureWhether you're a brand builder, founder, retail executive, or just love a good reinvention story, this episode is packed with tactical gems and inspiring takeaways.Ready to reimagine what retail can look like when experience comes first? Follow, rate, and share this episode with a friend and if you’re curious about where to get pierced next, check out studs.com to explore their latest studio openings.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot sits down with the visionary team behind RetailClub: Anil D. Aggarwal, CEO & Co-Founder, Simran Rekhi Aggarwal, President & Krystina Gustafson, Chief Content Officer & Co-Founder. Known for creating transformative events like Shop Talk and Grocery Shop, this team is once again leading retail into its next great evolution, this time with AI at the center. Together, they discuss the why behind RetailClub, a new kind of gathering designed to bring together AI-curious, AI-championing, and AI-implementing professionals from across the retail industry. Unlike traditional conferences, RetailClub is a dynamic community and immersive experience complete with beachfront workshops, open-air keynotes, and the kind of deep, meaningful dialogue that can only happen face-to-face.You’ll hear how this initiative is less about flashy tech demos and more about building real, practical fluency in AI across functions from merchandising to marketing to customer service and preparing leaders to navigate exponential change. Whether you're just starting to explore AI or already leading its charge, this conversation will show you why RetailClub is the place to be.Key Themes:The story behind RetailClub and its founding visionWhy retail needs a new kind of AI-native communityHow AI is transforming roles, business models, and entire org chartsWhat makes RetailClub different from every other event on the calendarA glimpse into the AI Deep Dive retreat in Huntington BeachWant in?RetailClub’s first retreat takes place September 14–17 in Huntington Beach, CA. This is more than a conference it’s a curated movement to shape retail’s AI-powered future. Don’t miss it. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we sit down with Molly Howard, cofounder and CEO of La Ligne, the beloved fashion brand known for its effortless aesthetic, powerful storytelling, and slow burn sustainable success. Molly shares her fascinating path from private equity and investment banking at Credit Suisse to working at Rag & Bone and ultimately launching La Ligne with former Vogue editors Meredith Melling and Valerie Macaulay.You’ll hear how her finance background uniquely shaped the brand’s business model, why La Ligne prioritized profitability over hype, and how her cofounder chemistry laid the foundation for trust and longevity. Molly also opens up about navigating tariffs, scaling e-commerce thoughtfully, and the turning point that made her realize they needed to “drop product like a magazine” to keep customers returning weekly.Whether you're a founder, fashion lover, or just obsessed with good retail strategy, this is a must-listen conversation filled with lessons in leadership, resilience, and intuition.Show Notes:• Molly’s unexpected journey from Credit Suisse to the fashion industry• The early days at Rag & Bone and the deal that flipped her role from banker to brand-side strategist• How a boat ride in Hawaii turned into a cofounder pitch• The vision behind La Ligne’s name and how they built a brand rooted in non-fussy French minimalism• Why La Ligne raised under $4 million and how they’ve remained profitable ever since• The benefit of launching without institutional investors• Dividing responsibilities among three cofounders and why “three is easier than two”• Building a direct-to-consumer first model with mindful wholesale partnerships like Net-a-Porter and Shopbop• The challenges and creativity that came from growing without an early e-commerce hire• Influencer marketing, ShopMy, and keeping authenticity at the center• The La Drop strategy and why weekly product releases became key to customer loyalty• Facing down supply chain shocks and rising tariffs while keeping the brand nimble• The joy of physical retail and Molly’s passion for designing store spaces• Denim, menswear, and collaborations as La Ligne’s next frontiers• Rapid fire: Molly’s favorite brands, best advice received, go-to pieces, and the Tupac class that shaped her thinkingLike what you hear?Follow The Retail Pilot and leave us a review. Share this episode with a friend who loves fashion or dreams of launching their own brand. You can also tag us on Instagram with your takeaways—we’d love to hear what inspired you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we’re joined by Scott Friend, a longtime leader in the retail and venture capital world. A partner at Bain Capital Ventures and the co-founder of ProfitLogic, Scott shares his journey from operator to investor, his unique lens on early-stage startups, and what separates great founders from the rest. We unpack the evolution of BCV over the past 20 years, the power of founder-market fit, and why customer success is non-negotiable in today’s startup landscape.Scott offers candid insights on investing in companies like Rent the Runway, Jet.com, Attentive, Miracle, and Archive, plus his take on AI's growing influence in commerce. From the one that got away (Peloton) to his thoughts on grit, momentum, and the founder’s mindset, this conversation is packed with value for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone passionate about the future of commerce.Key Topics Covered:Scott’s journey from building ProfitLogic to investing at Bain Capital VenturesWhat makes a founder stand out (and why most are first-timers)How BCV approaches early-stage vs. growth-stage investingCommon characteristics of breakout founders like Jen Hyman and Marc LoreThe importance of customer success and analytic rigorAI’s disruptive role in commerce platformsWhy focus and momentum matter more than perfectionPersonal stories behind high-stakes risk and reward (including Jet.com)The investment that got away and the companies he’d double down onRapid fire: Favorite show, CEO admiration, and meeting the Dalai LamaIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your network. For more insights on the future of commerce and investing, follow The Retail Pilot wherever you get your podcasts.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of The Retail Pilot, retail legend Jenny Ming shares her remarkable journey—from launching Old Navy at Gap Inc. to leading transformative growth at Rothy’s. Jenny reveals how she navigated career pivots, built billion-dollar brands, embraced fast fashion logistics, and stayed true to her values through every leadership chapter. This is a masterclass in visionary retail, thoughtful decision-making, and building businesses with purpose.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, retail exec, or brand builder, Jenny’s insights on creating iconic customer experiences, staying nimble, and leading through complexity will leave you inspired and energized.Show Notes:Jenny shares the pivotal moment she was offered the opportunity to launch a new retail brand while planning a move to Hong Kong.How Old Navy went from “Gap Warehouse” to a standalone brand—and why other potential names like “Monorail” and “Forklift” thankfully didn’t make the cut.Her approach to launching with 50 stores from the start, and why thinking like an investor helped shape early decisions.The reality of working with a lean, scrappy team and the lessons she learned in intrapreneurship at Gap Inc.Why Old Navy's lighthearted brand tone and accessible price points resonated with families—and made fashion fun again.Transitioning into CEO roles after Gap, including a decade at Charlotte Russe and her bold comeback at Rothy’s.The importance of sustainability, style, and washability in Rothy’s brand DNA—and how Jenny helped the company return to profitability in months.How she’s expanded Rothy’s into Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Anthropologie, and international markets while maintaining brand integrity.Her take on tariffs, supply chain diversification, and how early planning helped Rothy’s navigate disruption.Why testing, listening, and growing with your team are pillars of her leadership style.Jenny’s thoughts on the power of strategic collaborations, the future of retail tech, and what keeps her inspired as a mentor and coach.Plus: her leadership must-do’s, favorite cities, favorite brands, and what she looks for when hiring.Enjoy the episode? Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s building something bold. Your support helps us bring more candid stories from retail’s top voices to your feed.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot welcomes Emily Gittins, Co-founder and CEO of Archive — a technology company transforming fashion's relationship with resale. With a deep background in mathematics, environmental science, and business, Emily takes us through her journey from Cambridge to BCG to Google X, and eventually to co-founding Archive with a bold vision: enable brands to profit from resale and reduce fashion waste at scale.Emily unpacks how Archive partners with top brands like The North Face, Oscar de la Renta, and New Balance to integrate branded resale into their business models — creating new revenue streams while advancing sustainability. Discover how her team is changing industry perceptions, scaling globally, and pioneering circular solutions in new verticals like home goods and electronics.Whether you're a fashion exec, sustainability advocate, or retail tech enthusiast, this episode offers a masterclass in turning purpose into profit.Show Notes:🔹 Guest BackgroundEmily’s education: BA in Mathematics (Cambridge), MBA & MS in Environmental Science (Stanford)Past experience: BCG, Google X, international development work on gender equity and mobile tech🔹 Key Topics CoveredWhy fashion is responsible for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissionsThe myth of resale cannibalizing full-price salesArchive’s unique tech platform for peer-to-peer resale, in-store trade-ins, and consignmentPartnerships with brands like Lululemon, Doc Martens, and M.M.LaFleurThe data-driven approach to pricing, SKU matching, and profit optimization in resaleScaling Archive internationally and expanding into new categoriesRaising $60M+ in funding and what’s next for the circular economy🔹 Powerful Stats & Takeaways100 billion clothing items are produced annually — enough to clothe the next 6 generationsResale customers have 2–3x higher lifetime value than new-only customersM.M.LaFleur saw a 3% revenue boost in year one from resale aloneResale is expected to become a $350B market🎙️ Listen Now:Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and your favorite streaming platforms.Learn More About Archive:https://www.archiveresale.comSponsored by FireworkHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we sit down with Amanda Baldwin, the newly appointed CEO of Olaplex and former CEO of Supergoop, for an in-depth conversation about her remarkable career journey—from Wall Street to the heart of the beauty industry. Amanda shares how her early curiosity about brands evolved into a passion for consumer-driven storytelling, innovation, and leadership in some of the world’s most iconic beauty companies.We explore her pivotal career moments, including her transition from finance to beauty, the foundational experiences she gained at Estée Lauder and LVMH, and how she scaled Supergoop from a small team to a category-defining brand. Now at the helm of Olaplex, Amanda outlines her vision for rebuilding brand strength, deepening pro community relationships, and driving innovation through groundbreaking R&D.This episode offers a masterclass in brand leadership, navigating industry change, and staying grounded in purpose while scaling globally.If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to like, follow, and leave a review—it helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you these powerful insights.Show Notes:Amanda’s early curiosity about consumer brands and storytellingLessons learned from Wall Street, Estée Lauder, and LVMHThe early growth story of Supergoop and how innovation drove scaleWhy product quality and emotional connection are non-negotiable for brand longevityOlaplex’s patented technology, salon-first strategy, and Amanda’s plans to reinvigorate the brandInvesting in team, infrastructure, and culture as part of operational excellenceNavigating the public markets while staying focused on long-term brand valueAdvice for early-career professionals and the role of mentorship in her successHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

A few weeks ago, I wrote an open letter to President Trump urging him to reverse the extreme tariffs and embargoes imposed on China. These policies have had a significant impact on the apparel, footwear, and toy industries—industries that have long operated offshore due to cost efficiencies and global supply chains. The response was overwhelming: over 800 reactions, 70,000 views, and 50+ reposts on LinkedIn, reflecting broad concern across the industry.However, the post also sparked a thoughtful and passionate response from a former colleague who sees a different path forward—one that includes a revival of U.S.-based manufacturing.In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we sit down for a grounded, no-holds-barred conversation about tariffs, trade, and the real-world ripple effects on American business. Joining me are:Adrian Miramontes, COO/CFO of Boston Proper, a women’s apparel brand that manufactures 80%+ of its product in China and now faces existential risk due to tariff-related cost increases.Jan Rogers Kniffen, CEO of J Rogers Kniffen Worldwide and longtime retail executive and CNBC contributor, who shares sobering insights on the long-term hollowing out of U.S. manufacturing.Bear Clark, Chief Innovation Instigator at Ear Micro and a pioneer in the hearables industry, who once ran a thriving U.S.-based manufacturing company—until Chinese subsidies and trade shifts changed everything.Together, we explore both sides of the issue—from the hopeful possibilities of automation and fair trade to the painful reality many small-to-mid-sized retailers now face. Whether you're a policymaker, entrepreneur, or consumer, this episode will challenge how you think about global sourcing, pricing, and the future of U.S. industry.You’ll Learn:Why my call to reverse tariffs gained massive traction—and pushbackHow Chinese subsidies disrupted entire U.S. industries, one bid at a timeWhy companies like Boston Proper depend on Chinese manufacturingWhat domestic production could look like in the age of automation and AIWhy rushed trade policy reform could do more harm than good without a planThe moral and economic case for reciprocal trade and environmental accountabilityTopics Covered:The decline of American manufacturing over six decadesFast fashion, fair labor, and environmental implicationsTariffs as economic tools: punishment, leverage, or necessity?What a balanced and effective trade strategy might actually look likeFinal Thoughts:We may not all agree on the solution, but this conversation marks a critical starting point: how can the U.S. support fair, strategic trade that benefits workers, business owners, and consumers alike—without trading stability for short-term politics?Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot sits down with Daniella Vitale, CEO of Ferragamo and one of the most influential leaders in luxury retail. From wrapping gifts at a small shop in New Jersey to leading some of the biggest names in fashion — including Armani, Gucci, Barneys New York, Tiffany & Co., and now Ferragamo — Daniella shares her remarkable career journey, pivotal leadership lessons, and deep passion for product innovation.Daniella opens up about navigating the digital transformation of legacy brands, scaling Ferragamo’s digital business, and why authentic customer experiences are the future of luxury. She also discusses her philosophy on leadership, career advice for the next generation, and how Ferragamo is evolving its women's business to drive growth in a challenging global market.Whether you're an aspiring fashion executive, a retail enthusiast, or a brand leader navigating change, Daniella’s insights will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to take bold chances.Show Notes:Introduction to Daniella Vitale’s career in luxury retail, including her leadership roles at Armani, Gucci, Barneys New York, Tiffany & Co., and FerragamoHow wrapping gifts as a teenager sparked her lifelong passion for retailThe importance of embracing both product and operations to become a successful CEODaniella’s experience launching digital at Gucci and transforming Barneys' online businessLessons learned from leading Barneys through financial challenges and innovationDriving Ferragamo’s digital growth and building an omnichannel strategyHow Ferragamo is shifting from a men's shoe powerhouse to a women's leather goods leaderThe critical role of customer experiences, lifestyle branding, and storytelling in luxury todayInsight into the evolving challenges in the luxury retail market — from tariffs to changing consumer behaviorsDaniella’s leadership approach: building cohesive, collaborative, and empathetic teamsAdvice for young professionals entering the retail and fashion industriesRapid-fire questions: favorite brands, dream city to live in, favorite shows, and who she’d love to meetIf you found value in this episode, don’t forget to share it with your network and help us spread these inspiring lessons across the industry!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot welcomes PJ Oleksak, the dynamic CEO of Nuts.com and the first woman and non-family member to lead the 94-year-old business. With a rich background that includes leadership roles at FreshDirect and Slice, PJ shares how she combines a deep understanding of finance with a passion for food to lead transformative change in legacy brands. She walks us through her journey from private equity to pioneering online grocery, her leadership philosophy, and how she’s steering Nuts.com toward omnichannel growth.PJ also discusses the challenges and opportunities in modernizing a family-owned business—building a performance-driven culture, embracing AI and tech innovation, and preparing to launch a sister retail brand. Whether you're in e-commerce, food retail, or scaling a family business, this episode offers practical wisdom on navigating growth while staying true to your roots.Show Notes:Guest: PJ Oleksak, CEO of Nuts.comBackground: Former Chief Growth Officer at FreshDirect and Chief Business Officer at SliceTopics Covered:PJ’s transition from private equity to food techLessons learned from FreshDirect and SliceModernizing a 94-year-old business and earning trust as an outsiderBuilding high-performing, happy teams and instilling accountabilityThe cultural and operational shifts at Nuts.com under her leadershipStrategic moves toward omnichannel growth and retail distributionThe impact of AI across departments, from sales to creativeHow Nuts.com is adapting to rising cocoa costs and sourcing challengesLeadership philosophy and importance of founder-CEO alignmentLooking ahead: launching a sister brand and expanding customer reachKey Insight: Balancing legacy with innovation requires empathy, structure, and a relentless focus on the customer experience.Sponsored by FireworkHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot dives into the future of branding and retail innovation with Emily Heyward & JB Osborne, Co-Founders of Red Antler and a pre-flight discussion with retail futurist Jan Kniffen. From the transformative role of AI in customer experience to the secret sauce behind some of today’s most iconic brands, this conversation explores how emotional resonance, creativity, and technology intersect in modern retail. Ken, Emily, and JB also discuss brand building from scratch, the challenges of rebranding, and their venture fund Habitat Partners. Plus, they reflect on favorite campaigns, dream brand revivals, and the evolving landscape of consumer expectations.Show NotesKen Pilot introduces the episode with commentary from retail expert Jan Kniffen on the seismic impact of AI across industries, especially in retail.Jan shares why AI will redefine omnichannel experiences and customer expectations, emphasizing the urgency for retailers to invest or fall behind.Emily Hayward and JB Osborne join Ken to discuss Red Antler’s approach to branding, which centers on empathy, storytelling, and strategic creativity.Insights into how Red Antler partners with early-stage founders and legacy businesses, building emotional connections through meaningful brand positioning.Reflections on helping launch brands like Allbirds, Casper, Burrow, and Hinge, including the challenges and rewards of naming and storytelling.Candid thoughts on the rise and stumbles of DTC pioneers and how capital structure, not branding, often drives downfall.A look at Habitat Partners, their investment arm, and why equity plays helped foster long-term alignment with founders.Exploration of how AI is impacting creative workflows, campaign ideation, and brand communication.Rapid fire favorites, from travel destinations to go-to coffee brands, and the dream jobs Emily and JB would pursue outside of Red Antler.Plus, JB and Emily name the brands they’d love to reimagine—from OpenTable to LinkedIn—and share their vision for brand leadership in a tech-driven era.This episode is sponsored by Firework.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of The Retail Pilot: Leaders & Legends, host Ken Pilot sits down with EGOT-winning artist and entrepreneur John Legend, alongside brand builder Ari Bloom, co-founder and CEO of A-Frame Brands. Together, they unpack the story behind their inclusive skincare line Loved01—a brand created with intention, affordability, and care for melanin-rich and sensitive skin.John shares how his dual passion for music and academics shaped his career, why love is the foundation of everything he creates, and what it’s like building a brand with his longtime stylistic and creative team. Ari details the strategy behind launching socially conscious brands through A-Frame, lessons from live selling on QVC and Amazon, and how the data is shaping their next moves.👉 Promo Code: Get 25% off your next Loved01 purchase at Loved01.com with code PILOT25 — valid through May 1.📌 Chapters & Highlights:.John’s Early Career PathFrom piano lessons at 4 to BCG consultant by day and musician by night—how John balanced brains and creativity.The Origin of A-Frame & Loved01Ari shares how A-Frame Brands came to life and why teaming up with John was a natural fit.Why the Name “Loved01”The personal meaning behind the brand name and how it reflects self-care and connection.Filling the Skincare GapDesigning products for melanin-rich and aging skin—without celebrity price tags.Formulation & Sourcing StrategyHow Loved01 created high-quality, plant-based products domestically with no compromises.Chrissy Teigen’s Favorite ProductsWhat John’s wife loves about the brand—and why their $15 exfoliator beats high-end competitors.Retail Approach & AffordabilityThe importance of being accessible—through retailers like CVS, Amazon, and QVC.The Power of Live SellingWhy QVC, CBS, and Amazon are outperforming traditional ad spend—and how John’s charisma shines through.Using Data to Drive GrowthHow real-time feedback helps the team pivot, learn, and win with the right audiences.Expanding the Brand & What’s NextNew products, fragrance updates, B2B partnerships, and opportunities in hospitality.Rapid Fire FunJohn shares his favorite clothing brands, travel destination, dream meeting, and more.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

On this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot welcomes the visionary designer and founder, Jonathan Adler. Known for his signature blend of chic sophistication and playful wit, Jonathan shares his incredible journey from an aspiring potter to building a global design empire. From his early days spinning clay at summer camp to landing his first collection at Barney’s and expanding into furniture, lighting, and decor—this episode is packed with insights on resilience, creativity, and building a timeless brand.Jonathan also speaks into the intersection of business and design, the importance of humor in his work, his collaboration with Consortium, and his vision for the future of retail. Plus, hear about his relationship with husband Simon Doonan, the lessons he's learned over 30+ years in business, and why he believes in the power of "more."Key Takeaways:🔹 How Jonathan Adler transformed his passion for pottery into a global lifestyle brand🔹 The importance of humor and storytelling in design🔹 The business lessons he learned the hard way (including forgetting to send his first invoice!)🔹 Why he believes in the power of “more” when it comes to brand expansion🔹 His favorite sources of inspiration, from Slim Aarons to travel destinations💡 Enjoyed the episode? Leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot kicks off with a PreFlight segment featuring retail expert Jan Kniffen. They dive into the ever-changing sneaker market, discussing Nike’s comeback, the rise of On Running and Hoka, and how brands like Skechers and New Balance are shaking up the industry.Following PreFlight, Ken welcomes special guest Sarah LaFleur, Founder and CEO of M.M.LaFleur, for an insightful conversation about how she built a brand that redefined workwear for women. From launching the company in 2013 to navigating the challenges of COVID and financial setbacks, Sarah shares her journey of resilience, innovation, and customer-driven design.Learn how M.M.LaFleur’s mission to simplify dressing for professional women has evolved, how Sarah leveraged trunk shows and word-of-mouth marketing to scale the brand, and why she believes adaptability is key to entrepreneurial success. Plus, she shares insights on the future of retail, the role of AI in fashion, and her vision for M.M.LaFleur in the next decade.Key Takeaways:✈️ PreFlight with Jan Kniffen:🔹 The rise of smaller sneaker brands and how they’re impacting Nike & Adidas🔹 Why Nike is poised for a strong comeback in 2025-2026🔹 How the running shoe market is evolving and what it means for retailers🛫 Main Interview with Sarah LaFleur:🔹 The inspiration behind M.M.LaFleur and how it started🔹 How Sarah built a brand focused on function, fashion, and ease🔹 The impact of COVID on retail and how M.M.LaFleur pivoted🔹 Raising capital and overcoming financial hurdles in record time🔹 The future of retail and the role of AI in fashion🔹 The power of mentorship and community support🎧 Listen Now on Your Favorite Podcast Platform!Don’t forget to leave us a review and share this episode.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot interviews Dana Telsey, CEO and Chief Research Officer of Telsey Advisory Group. They explore key trends shaping the future of retail, including AI-driven personalization, shifting consumer behaviors, and the evolution of store formats. Dana shares insights on top-performing brands like Birkenstock, Warby Parker, and Abercrombie & Fitch, along with the challenges facing luxury retail and department stores. The discussion also covers tariffs, global supply chain shifts, and the increasing role of social media in retail strategy.Key Topics DiscussedDana Telsey’s Career Journey – Her experience in equity research, investment banking, and retail strategyRetail Trends for 2025 – Personalization, curation, and the growing role of AI in retailTop Companies to Watch – Birkenstock, Warby Parker, Walmart, Abercrombie & Fitch, and LululemonLuxury Retail & Department Stores – The Saks-Neiman Marcus merger and the shift toward direct-to-consumer strategiesThe Impact of AI in Retail – Enhancing personalization, content creation, and supply chain managementSocial Media & Retail – The influence of TikTok and social commerce on brand visibilityThe Evolution of Physical Retail – The rise of pop-up shops, smaller store formats, and experiential retailTariffs & Global Production – How supply chain shifts and economic uncertainty affect pricingNike & Sneaker Market Competition – Challenges from rising brands like Hoka, On Running, and SkechersRetail Technology & Customer Experience – AI-powered POS, RFID, and real-time analytics in retailHighlights & Key TakeawaysAI & Personalization – Retailers are investing in AI to refine customer experiences and optimize operationsSuccess of Top Brands – Birkenstock’s full-price strategy, Warby Parker’s store model, and Abercrombie’s resurgenceLuxury Retail Shifts – Direct-to-consumer is becoming the primary focus for major luxury brandsRetail Media Networks – Gaining traction but still proving their impact on sales and customer engagementPower of Social Media – TikTok has become a critical platform for understanding emerging consumer trendsTariffs & Rising Costs – Retailers are diversifying supply chains to reduce dependency on ChinaIn-Store Experience Matters – Brands like Skims and RH are leveraging immersive retail environmentsNike’s Competitive Pressure – Facing challenges from new brands, Nike must redefine its market strategyRetail’s Need for Agility – The most successful brands are those that adapt quickly to changing consumer demandsHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Ken Pilot interviews Emily Current and Meritt Elliott, Co-Founders of fashion brand, The Great, on this Flight of The Retail Pilot Podcast. Plus, he has a short "Pre-Flight" conversation with Jan Kniffen, former retail executive and current CNBC retail expert, to discuss what 2025 looks like for the retail industry.Pre-Flight with Jan KniffenJan Kniffen shares his outlook for retail in 2025:Retailers are optimistic after a solid 2024 holiday seasonConsumer spending expected to remain healthy, especially among higher-income shoppersLower-income consumers adapting to higher costsTariffs not a major concern for most retailersPositive outlook for discretionary retailers like Ralph Lauren, Nike, LululemonInterview with Emily Current and Meritt ElliottKen speaks with the co-founders of The Great about their journey and brand:Brand OriginsMet as UCLA students, bonded over vintage fashionStarted as celebrity stylists before launching denim brand Current/ElliottFounded The Great in 2015, focusing on casual, nostalgic AmericanaThe Great BrandOffers casual, vintage-inspired clothing across multiple categoriesAbout $50 million in annual revenueDistribution split between e-commerce, retail stores, and wholesaleBusiness ApproachSelf-funded, focused on organic growthValue wholesale partnerships alongside direct-to-consumerEmphasis on in-person experiences and community buildingCollaborationsPartnerships with Eddie Bauer, Birkenstock, Pottery BarnInterested in future collaboration with ConverseMarketing StrategyRely heavily on word-of-mouth and organic growthUse collaborations and retail stores as marketing toolsCelebrity fans include Reese Witherspoon and Rachel BilsonFuture PlansExpanding reach to new geographic marketsConsidering growth in men's, children's, and home categoriesWorking as Co-CEOsEmphasize complementary skills and shared visionStress importance of understanding all aspects of the businessHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, host Ken Pilot sits down with Alex and Mike Faherty, co-founders of Faherty Brand, to discuss their business journey, recent successes, and future plans. Key Topics Discussed: Faherty's performance during Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2024The brand's growth trajectory and end-of-year projectionsExpansion of retail stores and focus on in-store experiencesProduct development and bestselling itemsMarketing strategies and collaborationsTech innovations and simplification effortsTeam building and company culturePreparing for potential tariff changes in 2025Exciting plans and collaborations for 2025 Highlights: Faherty now operates 72 stores, with plans to open more in 2025The brand is doing "hundreds of millions" in revenueFocus on hero products like the Legend Shirt and Stretch Terry PantsEmphasis on creating a boutique feel while making shopping easier for customersUpcoming collaborations with a surf club in Ghana and big wave surfers in PortugalHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.