The Footwear Retailer

In this episode of The Footwear Retailer Podcast, Pete Mohr sits down with Terry Schalow, Executive Director of the Running Industry Association (RIA), to explore how independent run specialty stores continue to grow—even amid inflation, tariffs, and supply chain uncertainty. Terry shares the three pillars of RIA's support strategy: → Elevating retailers through tools like freight savings and product data systems → Strengthening the channel through collaboration and peer groups → Attracting n...

In this episode, Melodie van der Baan, co-founder of MaxRetail, dives deep into one of retail’s most persistent challenges: excess inventory. Rather than starting with her background, Pete will immediately lead with a thought-provoking question to set the stage for a conversation packed with actionable insights. Listeners will walk away with: ✅ A better understanding of how excess inventory impacts their business. ✅ Practical strategies to efficiently manage and liquidate stock. ✅ Clear in...

Want more customers walking through your door? This episode is a masterclass in marketing for independent shoe store owners. Pete is joined by Kody Fitzjerrells, founder of Omni Digital Group, to unpack the biggest marketing mistakes retailers make—and how to fix them. 💬 You’ll hear about: → The "Five-Mile Famous" strategy that puts your store in front of the right people → What most retailers get wrong about Meta ads → Why 59% of your customers only shop with you once → How to use your cu...

Struggling to grow your footwear retail business without getting overwhelmed? Josh Habre shares how he expanded from 6 to 15 stores, mastered acquisitions over openings, and built a leadership structure that fuels success. Learn how to apply EOS systems, decision-making frameworks, and succession planning to your business—whether you're a single-store retailer or managing multiple locations. 💡 Key Takeaways: → How to scale a retail business the smart way → Why acquiring existing s...

Are you a footwear retailer looking for expert mentorship, networking opportunities, and business growth strategies? In this episode, Pete Mohr sits down with Mark Denkler, President of the National Shoe Retailers Association (NSRA), to discuss how independent retailers can access exclusive industry resources to grow and future-proof their businesses. Learn how to: → Connect with a powerful retail network that helps you succeed → Overcome common business challenges in the footwear industry →...

In this episode of The Footwear Retailer Podcast, Pete Mohr welcomes retail expert Bob Negen of WhizBang! Retail Training. They discuss how independent retailers can thrive by creating a customer-first culture, mastering sales techniques, and providing exceptional experiences that keep customers coming back. Bob shares his “Perfect Purchase” framework and insights from his decades of retail expertise. Key Takeaways: • How to implement a sales-focused culture that prioritizes care and experie...

What is your business worth? For many footwear retailers, the answer isn’t clear. In this episode of The Footwear Retailer Podcast, Pete Mohr introduces the Business Value Blueprint, a practical framework to align your operations, grow profitably, and build a legacy. Discover the 6 Ps of Retail Success—Promise, Product, Process, People, Promotion, and Profit—and how they connect with the CMA Leadership Core of communication, management, and accountability. Key Topics Covered: • Why top-line g...