Think direct mail is dead? Think again. In this episode, we sit down with David, a seasoned direct mail expert who’s helped businesses of all sizes use physical marketing to drive real results. David shares how traditional mail is making a comeback—and how you can use it to stand out in a noisy digital landscape.

From building smarter (not bigger) mailing lists to launching your first campaign on a $500 budget, you’ll get practical, no-fluff advice for turning mail into a powerful marketing channel. David also breaks down whether direct mail works best solo or when paired with email—and the answer might surprise you.

This episode is your beginner-friendly guide to using the physical inbox to reconnect with your audience in a more meaningful, memorable way.

[6:30] Why direct mail deserves a spot in your marketing plan today
[17:24] The real reason their newsletter list is intentionally small
[20:18] A great starting point if you’re new to direct mail
[23:38] Does physical mail work better with email—or on its own?
[26:52] How to launch a solid direct mail strategy with just $500

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Think PR is just for big brands? Think again. In this episode, we explore how organic PR can actually outperform social media, influencers, and even paid ads—especially for local retailers. Learn how to write press releases that land, earn high-quality backlinks, and pitch your story in a way that drives real foot traffic.

You’ll also uncover the most common PR mistakes businesses make (and how to fix them), along with simple yet powerful strategies to get noticed by local media—without a big budget.

This episode is your crash course in high-impact, low-cost publicity!

[5:04] How organic PR can outperform social media, influencers, and paid ads
[8:03] Backlinks: what they are and why they matter
[14:55] What to write in your press release to grab attention
[17:46] Common PR mistakes retailers make—and how to correct them
[23:00] How to pitch local media and bring more people through your doors

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Love Rooted in Retail? Join IndERA—just $25/month, or go Pro and save $503 with code FM503 by 5/31.

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In this special episode, we take you inside the opening keynote from EVOLVE, where the spotlight is on navigating change in your retail business with strength and resilience.

You’ll discover why your brain naturally resists change, how to reframe discomfort into growth, and even how to channel emotions like anger into purpose and momentum. From unexpected tariffs to tightening ad budgets, this episode is filled with actionable insights for retail leaders ready to thrive—even through tough times

[2:42] Why your brain is wired to resist change

[2:56] The comfort of familiarity vs. the discomfort of growth

[4:01] Why change feels exhausting—and how to move through it

[5:04] The emotional toll of business shifts

[10:08] How anger can become your driving passion

[10:35] Using emotions to fuel your retail store’s growth

[12:25] Turning tariffs and challenges into innovation

[17:36] Being strategic with ad spending

[20:26] Why showing up—consistently—matters most

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation

Love Rooted in Retail? Join IndERA—just $25/month, or go Pro and save $503 with code FM503 by 5/31.

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