Customer Centric Retailing Podcast

Hosted by Anil Patel

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Episodes

Latest episode

May 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

This podcast is a forum for retail leaders to discuss industry trends, challenges, and the future of customer-centric retailing. We discuss eCommerce, mobile commerce, omnichannel technology, brick-and-mortar operations, culture, innovation, and how all of these elements come together to create customer-centric retailing. Join us to hear the brightest minds in the retail industry share their experiences and thoughts on the most relevant topics today. [To read more follow us on www.hotwax.co]

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60 recent

May 25, 2026Episode 339 min

Building Customer-Centric Experiences Across B2B & D2C with Joseph Sharplin

In this episode, we’re joined by Joseph, Head of eCommerce at AS Colour, as he shares how the brand is scaling globally while balancing both B2B and D2C on a single eCommerce platform.Joseph talks about his journey from product design into eCommerce leadership and how deep product knowledge shapes better digital experiences. He explains how AS Colour manages global distribution, inventory planning, and fast fulfillment while delivering a premium experience to both wholesale and retail customers.The conversation also explores how the brand differentiates in a competitive blank apparel market through timeless positioning and quality focus. Finally, Joseph shares his perspective on how AI is transforming product discovery, content strategy, and the future of buying behavior in eCommerce.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

October 27, 2025Episode 240 min

Custom Orthotics & Performance Footwear Brand's Approach to Customer Experience

In this episode, our special guest, Mitch Dodd, President of Kintec Footwear + Orthotics, discusses how to build a retail business that successfully blends human insight with technological precision. Mitch shares his journey from the shop floor to the C-suite and how Kintec’s commitment to expertise, innovation, and customer care drives growth across its 20 locations. This episode further explores leadership grounded in empathy, the challenges of omnichannel retail, and how empowering people remains the key to delivering exceptional customer experiences.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

October 8, 2025Episode 145 min

The AI Playbook for Retail Leaders with Sid Arigapudi

In this episode, Sid Arigapudi, VP of Technology at 5.11 Tactical, discusses the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in retail. He is an advocate for a business-first, test-and-learn approach, showing how AI can empower leaders to experiment, make faster decisions and drive innovation without requiring deep technical expertise.The conversation highlights practical applications, from internal knowledge bots to dynamic order orchestration and demonstrates how AI can enhance existing systems rather than replace them. The episode further covers important aspects like safeguarding data, managing costs, and using AI to enhance operational performance.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

February 3, 2025Episode 2835 min

Evolving a 70-Year-Old Brand Without Losing Its Essence with Geraldo Jose

In this episode, Geraldo José Z Do Prado, CEO of Casa Prado, discusses the brand’s approach to sustainability, responsible sourcing, and innovation. He shares how the company balances its long-standing commitment to ethical practices with modern technology to stay competitive in the fashion industry. From building strong supplier relationships to incorporating AI-driven customer experiences, Casa Prado is embracing a thoughtful, forward-looking business model. With a focus on reducing environmental impact, engaging customers, and maintaining social responsibility, the brand continues to grow while staying true to its core values.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

January 20, 2025Episode 2731 min

Balancing Tech, Sales and CX at Fleet Feet with Alex Tallman

In this episode, Alex Tallman, Director of Retail Experience at Fleet Feet, offers insights into the company’s approach to customer experience and technological innovation. Alex reflects on his career and the importance of understanding the needs of both in-store associates and franchisees to drive success.Additionally, he discusses how Fleet Feet integrates advanced technology, such as FitID 3D foot scanning, and utilizes stores as eCommerce fulfillment hubs to seamlessly connect in-store and online shopping experiences.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

January 3, 2025Episode 2646 min

How Nanso Group Shapes Personalized Retail Experiences Using Data with Jenni Homer

In this episode of, we’re joined by Jenni Homer, Director of Retail & Ecom at Nanso Group, as she takes us through the exciting ways AI and data analytics are reshaping retail. Jenni shares how Nanso is embracing an omnichannel strategy, with a special focus on their direct-to-consumer (DTC) approach powered by Shopify.We learn about how AI is helping Nanso better understand customer behavior, enabling more personalized marketing and tailored product messaging. Jenni also highlights the crucial role physical stores continue to play in supporting eCommerce, and how staff training around customer data is enhancing the overall shopping experience.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

December 23, 2024Episode 2544 min

Exploring Use Cases of AI in Fashion Retail with Armen Momejian

In this episode with our esteemed guest Armen Momejian, Director of AI Initiatives at ALDO Group, we discussed how AI and RFID technologies are revolutionizing the retail industry. Armen shared insights into how Aldo is using RFID to improve inventory accuracy and enhance operational efficiency. We also explored how AI is being leveraged to optimize order fulfillment, helping retailers better predict demand and fulfill customer orders more effectively. Armen provided valuable advice for businesses looking to integrate AI, stressing the importance of starting with small, manageable projects and focusing on data quality and cross-department collaboration.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

December 16, 2024Episode 2438 min

Connecting Digital and Physical Commerce in Fashion Retail with Akash Samtani

In this episode, Akash Samtani shares his expertise on the evolving world of omnichannel retail, highlighting the key challenges and incredible opportunities retailers face today. From seamlessly connecting physical stores with online platforms and centralized inventory management to navigating the shifting dynamics between B2B and D2C strategies, he provides a roadmap for achieving a truly integrated and customer-centric retail experience.He also shares his experience in the tobacco industry, where he led the transformation by leveraging digital tools to drive business growth and expand market reach. Akash offers practical insights into digital tools, strategies, and mindset needed to help businesses thrive in this fast-paced, competitive market.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

November 14, 2024Episode 2338 min

Turning Store Associates into Stylists and Fulfillment Experts with Karrie Helm

In this episode, Karrie Helm, Sr. Director of Stores at EVEREVE, discusses how EVEREVE is transforming the shopping experience by merging the convenience of online shopping with personalized in-store service. She explains how EVEREVE utilizes BOPIS (Buy Online Pick Up In Store) and BORIS (Buy Online, Return In Store) to offer a frictionless, customer-first experience.Karrie also shares how the brand empowers its store associates to move beyond transactional sales, focusing on personal styling and tailored fashion advice. This combination of exceptional service and efficient inventory management drives EVEREVE’s dynamic retail success.Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn

November 7, 2024Episode 2247 min

How Tech and Sustainability Shaped Cotopaxi’s Brand Identity with Stephan Jacob

In this podcast episode, our special guest, Stephan Jacob, addresses the challenges retailers encounter in adapting to evolving consumer expectations and the necessity of leveraging technology to maintain a competitive edge. He shares innovative approaches to improving customer service, emphasizing the integration of AI and analytics to gain deeper insights into customer preferences. Additionally, we discuss the importance of sustainability in retail practices where he advocates for businesses to adopt environmentally friendly initiatives. Check out more insightful conversations with industry experts at: Customer Centric Retailing Podcast PageLinkedIn