As the holiday rush approaches, your team's energy can make or break the customer experience. In this episode, Kathy shares what she noticed during her travels in 2025—how disengagement shows up in stores—and why connection matters more than ever in Q4. Learn what real engagement looks like, why it drives sales, and how to model it as the leader. Plus, a quick discussion on whether "secret shoppers" help or hurt team morale.

For show notes, including links to the documentary and resources I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode261

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website: Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers

Are Small Business Saturday discounts really worth it? In this episode, I'm breaking down when discounts make sense, when they don't, and smarter ways to attract shoppers without giving away your profit.

You'll hear real examples from my own store and other indie retailers, plus advanced strategies for seasoned shop owners—like using data from past years, segmenting customers, and streamlining operations for your busiest day of the season.

If you're planning your Small Business Saturday strategy, this episode will help you protect your margins and make the day more profitable, intentional, and fun.

For show notes, including links to the documentary and resources I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode260

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website: Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers

This is Part 2 of a special 2-part series on competition and product overlap in indie retail. Once you've processed the emotions behind a "copycat" moment, what comes next?

In this episode, I walk you through my CLEAR framework for grounding yourself, then share three common paths store owners take when a competitor feels too close for comfort: focusing inward, protecting their turf, or collaborating with caution.

You'll hear the benefits and trade-offs of each, my personal stance, and a mic-drop truth I've learned after years of studying independent retailers.

For show notes, including links to the documentary and resources I mentioned in this episode, visit www.savvyshopkeeper.com/episode259

Kathy Cruz is an Independent Retail Coach who helps store owners work smarter, profit more, and grow their brick and mortar businesses. Connect with Kathy and learn more here:

Website: Savvy Shopkeeper
Instagram: @savvyshopkeeper
Mastermind Group: Master Shopkeepers