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Join host Terresa Zimmerman as she sits down with Jaime Weisbrot, owner and founder of Phineas Gage, a men's clothing store in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Jaime shares her journey from visual merchandising in big-box retail to opening her own boutique, offering insights on customer service, community involvement, and the challenges of running an independent retail business.
Here are some takeaways from this episode
-Leverage your industry experience when opening your own store
-Focus on creating a unique shopping experience for your target demographic
-Continuously adapt to customer feedback and changing market trends
-Utilize local partnerships and educational institutions for staffing and growth
-Explore various marketing channels to reach your specific customer base
-Invest in a robust POS system to track inventory and customer preferences
-Consider implementing a loyalty program to reward and retain customers
-Working with business consultants, why and how
Featured in this episode:
Phineas Gage
Website https://phineas-gage.com/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/phineas_gage_wc/
LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/phineas-gage/
Connect with Jaime Weisbrot, owner/founder
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-hazley-weisbrot-35a88011/
Other mentions in this episode:
West Chester PA Chamber https://www.instagram.com/greaterwestchester/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greater-west-chester-chamber-of-commerce/ Drexel Universityhttps://www.instagram.com/drexeluniv/https://www.linkedin.com/school/drexel-university/
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman
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"No matter what job you're in, whether it's retail or whether it's insurance or whether it is, you've got to have fun in your business. And when you quit having fun, it's time to get out." - Cindy Purnell
In this episode, host Terresa Zimmerman sits down with Cindy Purnell, owner of Post and Rail Men's Shop in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. With a retail career spanning over five decades, Cindy brings a wealth of experience and insights to the conversation. Her story is one of adaptability, community involvement, and a deep passion for personalized customer service.
Key points in this episode:
-Post and Rail Men's Shop has been a fixture in Ligonier for 50 years, celebrating its anniversary in November2024.
-The store specializes in classic, traditional men's clothing with a casual twist, catering to the "horseytown" vibe of Ligonier.
-Cindy discusses the challenges and joys of running a small-town retail business, including:
Balancing tradition with the need to attract younger customers The importance of community involvement and chamber of commerce membership Using technology (QuickBooks Point of Sale) to inform buying decisions Adapting to challenges like COVID-19 through Facebook live sales-The challenges of staffing and succession planning for small businesses
-The importance of maintaining a store's identity while adapting to change
-Why "Main Street matters" - the value of personalized service and community connections inretail
Featured in this episode:
Cindy Purnell owner of Post and Rail Men’s Shop
https://www.thepostandrail.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/postandrailmensshop
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/postandrailligonier/
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this podcast episode of Main Street Matters, host Terresa Zimmerman interviews Lindsay Morton Gaiser, the president and second-generation owner of Andrisen Morton in Denver, Colorado. Lindsay shares insights into the history of the luxury men's clothing store, founded by her father and his business partner, Craig Andrisen, in 1979. She discusses the evolution of the business, including a brief foray into women's clothing and the shift towards more sportswear over tailored clothing.
Lindsay highlights the importance of the store's customer base, which includes multi-generational clients and a wide range of occupations. She emphasizes the significance of the vendor community and the store's dedicated staff, who contribute to the unique experience offered by Andrisen Morton.
Keypoints in this episode:
-The history and evolution of Andrisen Morton
-The importance of customer loyalty and multi-generational clientele
-Strategies for adapting to changing customer needs and trends
-Utilizing technology, such as survey tools and CRM systems
-The significance of peer learning and industry relationships
-Planning for future growth and succession, owner and staff, in the business
Featured in this episode:
Andrisen Morton
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
Connect with Lindsay Morton
LinkedIn
CRM Tool that Andrisen Morton is using:One Shop app - is the all-in-one client engagement & loyalty platform for local store teams to engage their customers personally to turn first time shoppers into life long fans.
Connect with them on LinkedIn
Books mentioned in this episode: (support your independent bookstore at www.indiebound.org)
The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman
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Do you know of a store on Main Street, in your community, that has been around for a century? even 50 years? This one has.
In this podcast episode, host Teresa Zimmerman interviews Larry Davidson, the third-generation leader of Davidson's Clothing for Men in Roanoke, Virginia. Larry shares the history of Davidson's, which was started by his Lithuanian immigrant grandfather in 1910. The conversation delves into the evolution of the business over the years, highlighting the importance of community involvement and building one-to-one relationships with clients. Larry discusses the challenges and changes in the retail industry, emphasizing the need to adapt to evolving customer preferences and styles.
Larry emphasizes the significance of understanding the cash position of a business and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with vendors and customers. He also touches on the role of technology in retail, mentioning the use of data processing systems and social media for communication and marketing.
Key Points Discussed:
The history and evolution of Davidson's Clothing for Men
The importance of community involvement and building relationships
Adapting to changing fashion trends and customer preferences
Utilizing technology and data to make informed business decisions
The significance of maintaining a strong cash position in business
Featured in this episode: Davidsons Clothing for Men
Website: https://www.davidsonsclothing.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidsonsclothing
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman
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Stay ahead of fashion trends with Jin Frati, who brings his 20 years of design experience and insights into the world of upscale menswear at independent retail.
Join our host, Terresa Zimmerman and guest Jin Frati of Marchesi JinFrati. Jin has been a prominent figure in the fashion industry, known for his exquisite neckwear designs and exceptional craftsmanship. As a believer in and partner to independent retail stores, Jin creates bespoke collections for upscale menswear stores across North America and Europe. Jin shares his journey in the fashion industry, his expertise in creating unique neckwear collections, and the importance of customization in upscale menswear.
With a rich background working with top brands like Ralph Lauren, Jin discusses his creative process, the significance of his Italian heritage, and how he stays ahead of fashion trends.
Key topics in this episode:
-Jin Frati's business of creating collections of neckwear and designs exclusively prints
-The importance of extensive research and how it helps you stay ahead of trend in fashion
-Personalized service offering customers to print their own logos on the ties
-Understanding each customer's specific needs and preferences
-Jin's journey into the design industry and his passion for neckwear
-Evolution of technology in printing, from traditional screen printing to digital printing
-Advice for his younger self, emphasizing the importance of not taking rejections personally in the business
-Commitment to offering a unique service that allows customers to personalize and private label their products
Featured in this episodes:Connect with Jin Frati: https://www.instagram.com/stories/marchesi_jinfrati/
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman/
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of Main Street Matters. In this episode, our host Terresa Zimmerman interviews Alex Hamka, a third-generation custom tailor and proprietor of Alexanders Custom Clothiers in Northville, Michigan. Alex shares his journey of taking over his father's tailor shop after his father fell ill, transitioning from being a pre-dental student to tailoring.
Tune in as Alex discusses the evolution of his business, focusing on bespoke tailoring and innovative strategies like membership packages and personalized services. Alex reflects on the challenges and successes during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and continuous innovation in his business.
Key points discussed in this episode:
-Alex Hamka’s journey of taking over his father's tailor shop
-The evolution and innovative strategies of Alexanders Custom Clothiers
-The challenges and successes faced during the COVID-19 pandemic
-The expansion and unique approach of Alexander's Custom Clothiers
-The role of bravery and conviction in executing business strategies
-The impact of tailoring on people's lives, including heartwarming stories
-The significance of Main Street as the heart of the community
-The importance of personal connections and sense of community fostered through the business
-The future of Alexanders to focus on scaling and developing membership packages
Featured in this episode:
Alexanders Custom Clothiers: https://www.alexcustom.com/
Alexanders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexanderscustomclothiers/
Alexander’s Cars and Coffee: https://www.instagram.com/alexanderscarsandcoffee
Coffee shop mentioned in this episode: https://www.sweetbrewcafenv.com/
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman/
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In this episode of the Main Street Matters podcast, host Terresa Zimmerman interviews Kory Helfman, the second-generation proprietor of Ken's Man’s Shop in Dallas, Texas. Kory discusses the shop's history and clientele, as well as his concerns about the future of Ken’s Man Shop and the tailoring business due to a lack of master tailors.
He emphasizes the importance of long-term relationships with clients, community support, and staying relevant through marketing and SEO.
Kory also shares insights into the shop's operations, including the impact of natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights the significance of service, quality, and community involvement in maintaining the shop's success and legacy.
Key topics in this episode:
-History and clientele of Ken's Man’s Shop
-Challenges and strategies for staying relevant in the tailoring business
-The scarcity of new tailors and the absence of tailoring schools-Importance of long-term relationships with clientele
-Diverse clientele served by Ken's Man’s Shop
-Impact of external factors such as natural disasters like tornado and the COVID-19 pandemic
-Importance of learning new skills like SEO and utilizing AI in business
-How he managed to acquire a new client through LinkedIn
-Future of the business and the changing retail landscape
Featured in this episode:
Ken’s Man’s Shop Website: https://kensmansshop.com/
Ken’s Man’s Shop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kensmansshop/
Ken’s Man’s Shop LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ken's-man's-shop/
Connect with Kory Helfman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kory-helfman/
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman/
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In this episode of Main Street Matters, host Terresa Zimmerman, is joined by Curtis Holloway, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Suitability of McLean, a men's custom clothing establishment located in McLean, Virginia. Curtis shares his inspiring journey from a long-term corporate career, which one day he was just done with, to becoming a successful business owner. Helping customers in career transitions find confidence through clothing, it transforms lives.
Key topics in this episode:
- The personalized consultations Curtis offers to his clients, considering factors such as hair, skin, and eye color.
-The significance of location, as McLean, Virginia, is a suit and tie town with a strong military presences
-The transformative impact Curtis has on his client's lives, particularly during critical pivot points such as transitioning out of the military
-The challenges of running a small business and the need for assistance in certain areas, such as technology and expansion
-Curtis's experience as a published author and his career journey, including his transition from being a mailman to working in the mortgage industry and eventually finding his passion in the custom clothing business
-The challenges of adapting to technology, particularly in the context of virtual consultation and expanding his business
Featured in this episode:
Book Mentioned: "King: Conversations and Anthropology of Men" - Available on AmazonConnect with Curtis Holloway:
Website: https://www.suitabilityofmclean.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-holloway-95a17162
Connect with Us:
Main Street Matters Podcast:
Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Host - Terresa Zimmerman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman/
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We are thrilled to announce the launch of MainStreet Matters, a podcast dedicated to celebrating and supporting the vibrant community of independent retail professionals like you.
Hosted by Teresa Zimmerman, an entrepreneur, multi-award-winning author, and mentor, MainStreet Matters is more than just a podcast—it's a platform for sharing stories, insights, and practical advice from those who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of running a small business.
Why Should You Listen to Main Street Matters?
Hear First-Hand Stories: Learn from the experiences of fellow independent store owners who have navigated the ups and downs of the retail world. Expert Advice: Gain valuable insights from industry experts and professionals who will share tips and strategies you can apply to your own business. Build Community: Connect with a network of like-minded individuals who are passionate about the success of Main Streets and independent retail.Each episode promises to deliver inspiration, knowledge, and actionable advice to help you thrive in today's ever-evolving retail landscape.
Stay tuned and join the conversation as we embark on this exciting journey together. Subscribe to MainStreet Matters on your favorite podcast platforms.
Follow us on social media for updates, episode releases, and more:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM
Be part of a community that believes in the power of independent retail and the importance of Main Street.
Your story matters, and we can't wait to share it.
