NHPA’s Taking Care of Business

Dan Tratensek, North American Hardware and Paint Association COO, sat down for an exclusive interview with True Value president Dent Johnson, who openly answered a range of questions, sharing how the leadership teams are navigating the challenges of the acquisition and providing insights on what the future holds for both companies.

On this episode of "Taking Care of Business," NHPA's COO and publisher Dan Tratensek joins Joelle Cohn, industry relations manager for the National Hardware Show, live from the NHS show floor to share highlights of the show and what attendees can look forward to in 2025.

On this episode of "Taking Care of Business," NHPA's Melanie Moul talks to Frank Glowacki, director of product management for primers for the Zinsser brand. They discuss the brand's 175-year commitment to delivering reliable product performance across its innovative line of primers, paints and coatings. Learn more at zinsser.com.

On this episode, reflect on 2023 and celebrate (with caution) what's to come in 2024 with NHPA's Melanie Moul and Dan Tratensek. They discuss the highlights and challenges of the previous year and review some of the data from the 2024 Market Measure Report. Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere

In this episode, NHPA staffers take time to show their gratitude for our members, industry partners, each other and the independent home improvement industry as a whole. Are you grateful for anything you'd like to share? Let us know on social media or send an email to nhpa@yournhpa.org. Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere"'Just Do (Instrumental)" by Arch Tremors"Give Me All Your Love (Instrumental)" by Loving Caliber

With a record 11 retailers, this year's class of Young Retailer of the Year honorees proves the future of the independent channel is in good hands. In this episode, the fourth in the five-episode series, we'll meet Jessica Talerico and Zane Watkins, who dive into the importance of supporting your local communities. Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere

With a record 11 retailers, this year's class of Young Retailer of the Year honorees proves the future of the independent channel is in good hands. In this episode, the second in the five-episode series, we'll meet Scott Fines and Michael Gleason Jr., who have both followed in their family's footsteps while building careers of their own. Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere

At the 2023 NHPA Independents Conference, NHPA's chief operating officer and publisher Dan Tratensek cast a vision for the future of the industry and independent channel in his state of the industry presentation. In this episode, listen to highlights from the presentation and how unity is key to strength in the channel. Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere

On this episode of "Taking Care of Business," NHPA retail training editor Jess Tillman weaves a narrative describing the careers of two industry leaders, Marty Ellison, director of retail operations for Miller Hardware Co., and Josiah Gates, chief operations officer of The Aubuchon Company. Discover how each has made their way through the hardware industry and what challenges they have faced. You'll also learn how they are helping create culturally minded careers for potential new employees for their businesses and the industry as a whole. Music Credits:"Melting Glass" by Eden Avery"Leaf" by Infinity Ripple"Midnight Textures" by Silver Maple"Capture This" by Alec Slayne

Hear from 2023 NHPA Top Guns honoree TJ Colson and learn more about his career journey from part-time warehouse employee to now president of Wilco Stores. He shares the lessons he's learned about the importance of developing a strong company culture, being willing to evolve and embrace change and building into your employees. Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere

In this episode of "Taking Care of Business," NHPA podcast producer and retail engagement specialist Renee Changnon talks with Jared Hotop, vice president of retail operations, and Petrina Jannin, human resources director, for Buchheits, a farm and home company with 20 locations in five states. Learn about how NHPA's Kim Peffley was able to help the company develop an engaged team from top to bottom. In the episode, they share practical tips on how to use Everything DiSC® assessments to support organizational growth and development. Do you want to learn more about how to incorporate Everything DiSC® in your operation? Contact NHPA's Kim Peffley at kpeffley@yournhpa.org or visit YourNHPA.org/development/everything-disc/. Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere

In this episode of "Taking Care of Business," NHPA senior editor Lindsey Thompson sits down with Luke Vander Linden, one of the speakers for the 2023 NHPA Independents Conference this August in Dallas. Luke, vice president of membership and marketing for Retail & Hospitality ISAC, shares cybersecurity best practices for keeping your operation protected online. If you're looking to find ways to integrate technology into your business, you will not want to miss the NHPA Independents Conference in Dallas Aug. 2-3. Go to YourNHPA.org/Conference to learn more and register today to take $400 off your ticket price! Music Credits:"Let That Sink In" by Lee Rosevere