Wisdom by WESA

We explore the best practices of the written SOP for small businesses with Neil Potter of Improving Your Small Business.  Why are SOPs important, how do you start and how do you implement them. Listen in…WESA Retail Roundup May 19, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Neil Potter of Improving Your Small BusinessPresented By: Western English Sales Association

From closing a small retail space to recently opening a much larger store, Tara Roberts shares the evolution of her brand, her insights on retail, and what’s next for The Cold Cactus Boutique. Tune in to hear her inspiring story.Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee WillbanksContact: Sophia Jagella, WESA Marketing SpecialistGuest:  Tara Roberts co-owner of The Cold Cactus BoutiqueWebsite: https://coldcactusboutique.caFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/coldcactusboutique/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/coldcactus/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coldcactusboutique/

Gabrielle Fournier from Arion Sellier France joins us to talk about working with Sponsored Riders.  What works, what doesn’t?  We go into detail on today’s Retail Roundup.  Listen in…WESA Retail Roundup May 12, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Gabrielle Fournier, Marketing and Sponsorship Director of Arion SellierPresented By: Western English Sales Association

We’re joined by Nicole Nava James of Zona Girl Nava, a boutique brand expert and social media manager, to break down the most common social media mistakes retailers make and, more importantly, how to fix them.WESA Retail Roundup May 5, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Nicole Nava James of Zona Girl Nava | Facebook | Instagram | TikTokPresented By: Western English Sales Association

An inspiring conversation with PRCA Chief Marketing Officer Paul Woody as he discusses how the PRCA is expanding rodeo’s reach, embracing digital innovation, and strengthening connections across the western industry.Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Paul Woody, Chief Marketing Officer Professional Rodeo Cowboys AssociationWebsite: www.prorodeo.comInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/prca_prorodeo/

Jennifer Anderson shares how LovLeathers uses limited edition pieces to spark demand, sell out collections, and build a loyal following. From drop strategies to creating buzz on social media, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas to turn scarcity into serious sales.WESA Retail Roundup April 28, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Jennifer Anderson of LovLeathers | Facebook | Instagram Presented By: Western English Sales Association

Join us for a special Retail Roundup conversation with Lorinda Van Newkirk! Learn how to build stronger, more successful relationships with sales reps from someone who understands both sides of the table. Lorinda will share insider tips on communication, placing orders, handling challenges, and working together for long-term success. Don’t miss this opportunity to level up your retail partnerships! Listen in...WESA Retail Roundup April 21, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Lorinda Van Newkirk of LuckyChuck.com | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTokPresented By: Western English Sales Association

Recently elected WESA president Michael Anderson Chats About His Role Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks, and Sophia JagellaGuest: WESA president Michael Anderson - Website | Facebook

Lorinda Van Newkirk talks about building western fashion brands and businesses. Listen In...Guests and Links Episode 105:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Lorinda Van NewkirkLink: Lucky ChuckVisit the WESA Website

What the alliance of marketing powerhouses FWV and Baker Bonner means for the Western industry.Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks, and Sophia JagellaGuests: FWV President David Gwyn and Baker & Bonner co-founder and CCO Rob BakerFind our guests at: bakerbonner.com or on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook

Join us for this Retail Roundup, where we’ll explore the Path to Purchase—breaking down how online and offline experiences work together to influence customer decisions. Nicole Leinbach, globally recognized retail thought leader, author, professor and entrepreneur, will share insights on bridging digital and physical retail, optimizing customer touchpoints, and converting engagement into sales. Whether you're looking to enhance your e-commerce strategy, improve in-store experiences, or create a seamless shopping journey across all platforms, this session will provide actionable strategies to help you turn browsing into buying and customers into loyal brand advocates. Listen in...WESA Retail Roundup March 10, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Nicole Leinbach Hoffmann of RetailMinded.com | Facebook | Instagram | YouTubePresented By: Western English Sales Association

Lisa Stubblefield talks about the history and future of her business and her brand.Hosts:Mike Donnell,Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Lisa Stubblefield

Power Hat Company’s founder Brandi Voth, began mentoring survivors of human trafficking in 2017. She quickly realized the need for businesses to create opportunities for these survivors to gain marketable business skills, references, and on-the-job training. She founded the company in 2020 to provide transitional employment to survivors. Since then, she has partnered with other usinesses to create economic empowerment for exploited, trafficked, and at-risk individuals worldwide. There is a lot to this story and Brandi joins us today to tell us more!Hosts:Mike Donnell,Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Brandi Voth of Power Hat Company - Facebook & Instagram

Join us for a special Retail Roundup session featuring Natalie Zindani and Jessica Ross, the founders of Badcowgirl Co., a rising Western fashion brand based in Scotland. In this live conversation, retailers will hear firsthand from fellow retailers about the challenges and triumphs of launching a startup outside the traditional Western market.From navigating the global equestrian fashion industry to leveraging trade shows like WESA for growth, this session will inspire, educate, and motivate. Learn how these bold entrepreneurs are carving out a unique space in Western fashion, why UK women are embracing the cowgirl aesthetic, and how community and industry connections fuel success.WESA Retail Roundup February 10, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Natalie Zindani and Jessica Ross of Badcowgirlco.com | InstagramPresented By: Western English Sales Association

How a Made in Montana company built a horsehair jewelry and accessory business border-to-border, coast to coast and across the ocean.Wisdom by WESA Episode 143:Hosts:Mike Donnell,Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Brenda Siegfried, Sales Manager at Cowboy Collectibles Inc

Doug Naylor joined Wrangler 24 years ago right out of college and has progressed up the ladder to his current position as Director of Key Western Accounts.  He joins the show to talk about his career at Wrangler, what’s changed over the two and a half decades and his relationship with his customers. Wisdom by WESA Episode 142:Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Doug Naylor, Director of Key Western Accounts at Wrangler

Join us for "The Boot Retailer’s Playbook", a live interview with Jeremiah Craig, the western boots influencer and country singer. Whether you're a buyer, store owner, or marketer, Jeremiah will share invaluable strategies for boosting boot sales, creating engaging in-store displays, and effectively marketing your products. Discover how to choose the right styles, educate customers on fit, and leverage storytelling to enhance your brand. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain expert tips and elevate your retail game!WESA Retail Roundup December 16, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Jeremiah Craig | Website | Facebook | YouTubePresented By: Western English Sales AssociationTime Stamps:02:24 - The Journey into Cowboy Boots14:05 - Sizing Challenges in Cowboy Boots20:02 - Exploring Video Content Strategies for Boot Retailers27:54 - Understanding Boot Fit and Sizing32:15 - Building Relationships in the Boot Industry

Jennifer Palmer, founder of Cutting Up Show Blankets chats about this new product concept. Listen in...Wisdom by WESA Episode 141:Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Jennifer Palmer, founder of Cutting Up Show Blankets | InstagramVisit the WESA WebsiteTime Stamps:02:49 - The Journey of Jennifer Palmer's Business10:37 - The Longevity and Care of Saddle Pads13:14 - The Production Techniques of Authentic Blankets20:10 - Emerging Trends in the Cutting Horse Industry25:21 - Transitioning to New Ideas in Business

Kelly Grindinger talks about the history of Kelly’s Market and the opening of a new Dallas Market Center showroom.Wisdom by WESA Episode 139:Hosts: Mike Donnell & and Sophia JagellaGuests: Kelly Grindinger -- Kelly's Market on the 15th floor of the Dallas Trade CenterVisit the WESA Website

Join Nicole Leinbach Hoffmann, Founder of RetailMinded.com and author of Retail 101, for an essential session tailored to small retailers. Discover practical strategies from her book, covering marketing essentials, product curation, and effective business management. Learn how to create impactful marketing, build a compelling product selection, and adopt business practices that boost profitability. Gain actionable insights from one of retail’s most influential leaders to elevate your store's success in today’s dynamic market!WESA Retail Roundup November 18, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Nicole Leinbach Hoffmann from Retail Minded | Facebook | LinkedIn Presented By: Western English Sales AssociationTime Stamps:02:23 - Effective Marketing Strategies for Small Retailers14:15 - Enhancing the In-Store Experience17:46 - The Evolution of Consumer Experience26:15 - The Impact of AI on Retail32:56 - The Evolution of Retail Payments

Tecovas VP of Sales Monte Nelson discusses the brand’s approach to an expanded retail presence.Wisdom by WESA Episode 139:Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuests: Monte Nelson | TecovasVisit the WESA Website

Hat Harness co-founders Tonia Lonigro and Daniel Kasidi tell the story of how she created a new way to travel with hats. Wisdom by WESA Episode 138:Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuests: Tonia Lonigro and Daniel Kasidi, Hat Harness | Instagram | TikTokVisit the WESA Website

Discover how to transform daily complaints into positive collaboration in the latest WESA Retail Roundup. Joshua Routh, an engaging speaker and former retailer, shares his insights on creating a complaint-free workplace, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and focusing on what is working rather than what is wrong. He discusses the detrimental effects of complaining on both personal well-being and workplace morale, advocating for a shift towards positivity and accountability. Routh introduces the "Gripe" method, providing practical tips for retail managers to effectively handle customer complaints, especially in the fast-paced equine retail environment. Join us as we explore actionable strategies to foster a more harmonious and productive workplace.WESA Retail Roundup October 28, 2024:Host: Ashley Winch, host of the Quarter Horse PodcastFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Joshua Routh | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedInPresented By: Western English Sales AssociationTime Stamps:00:05 - Welcome to the Show00:33 - Introducing Joshua Routh02:38 - Transforming Complaints into Collaboration28:00 - The Impact of Complaining38:14 - Creating a Complaint-Free Workplace39:09 - Strategies for Retail Managers42:39 - Boosting Team Morale46:57 - Conclusion and Next Steps

Join us for an exciting Retail Roundup Live Interview with Western Fashion Content Creator, Morgan Nicole Zipperlen! Discover how to elevate your brand through powerful storytelling and community building, and learn creative ways to boost sales with seasonal promotions and event marketing. Morgan will share insider tips on keeping your inventory fresh, showcasing new arrivals in a way that drives conversions, and leveraging user-generated content to amplify your brand's reach.Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights that will help you engage your audience and grow your retail business! Listen in....WESA Retail Roundup October 21, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Morgan Nicole Zipperlen | InstagramPresented By: Western English Sales Association

Known for her stylish content and collaborations with iconic brands like Wrangler, Shaley Ham has become a major influencer shaping trends in Western fashion and retail. Today, she'll share her retail insights, tips on working with influencers and social media strategies. Listen in....WESA Retail Roundup October 7, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Shaley Ham | Facebook | TikTok | InstagramPresented By: Western English Sales Association

Natalie Zindani and Jessica Ross tell their story about starting a women’s western brand in Scotland.Wisdom by WESA Episode 137: Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest:  Natalie Zindani and Jessica Ross of Bad Cowgirl Co. | Facebook | InstagramVisit the WESA Website

Join esteemed international speaker, author, and business strategist Barbara Wold in this engaging webinar as she delivers invaluable insights into Up-selling and cross-selling. Listen in...WESA Retail Roundup September 23, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Barbara Wold, International Speaker, Author and Business StrategistPresented By: Western English Sales Association

We are joined by Ashley Alderson, founder of The Boutique Hub and a champion for small businesses, is an entrepreneur and speaker dedicated to empowering others to live their best lives. She gives us actionable advice, personal insights, and strategies that resonate with boutique owners navigating retail, trends, and social media in a niche market. Listen in....WESA Retail Roundup September 16, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Ashley Alderson | Website | Podcast Presented By: Western English Sales Association

Mike Moore, founder of Buckaroo Hatters talks about his multi-faceted hat business.Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest:  Mike Moore, Buckaroo HattersVisit the WESA Website

Annie Meehan is an expert speaker who transforms achievement from good to great by teaching audiences to eliminate excuses and take actionable steps toward success. With a passion for inspiring change, she provides practical tools to manage challenges, improve customer and employee experiences, and achieve personal and professional goals. Listen in....WESA Retail Roundup September 9, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group Guest: Annie Meehan | Website | TikTok | YouTube | LinkedIn Presented By: Western English Sales Association

A look of how the Red Dirt Hat brand has grown in less than a decade. Listen in...Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Amanda Rogoski, Marketing Director Red Dirt Hat CompanyVisit the WESA Website

Join us for an exciting webinar featuring Breanna Brown, a renowned barrel race trainer and influencer. Discover the latest tack innovations and must-haves for your store and learn how to effectively market and showcase these items to maximize sales. Breanna shares her latest finds in the world of equine tack, along with professional tips on selecting top-performing products and creating in-store strategies. Whether you're looking to enhance your inventory or optimize your store's appeal, this webinar offers valuable insights to boost your business and attract more customers.WESA Retail Roundup July 29, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group Guest: Breanna Brown, Barrel Race Trainer & Content Creator | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTokPresented By: Western English Sales Association

Join us as speaker and business consultant, Debbie Allen, shares her insights about how to Stand Out and Race Past Your Competition with Expert Positioning. She dives into your website, social media strategies and how to get better SEO on YouTube. WESA Retail Roundup July 22, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group Guest: Debbie Allen, Website | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube | LinkedInPresented By: Western English Sales Association

Jennifer Anderson describes her lifelong love affair with leather and the scope of her second career.Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Jennifer AndersonVisit the WESA Website

Join esteemed international speaker, author, and business strategist Barbara Wold in this engaging webinar as she delivers invaluable insights into understanding and accommodating multi-generational customers. Discover strategies to effectively connect with and retain customers across different age groups, ensuring they keep coming back. Listen in...WESA Retail Roundup July 8, 2024:Host: Glenn the Geek, host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook group Guest: Barbara Wold, International Speaker, Author and Business StrategistPresented By: Western English Sales Association

Smarty Rodeo, known for roping practice equipment adds a retail store to its operation Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Amanda Shaffer, Smarty Rodeo VP VP Business DevelopmentVisit the WESA Website

Jewelry designer and businessman Kelly Herd talks about his equestrian jewelry company.Hosts: Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Kelly Herd of Kelly Herd JewelryVisit the WESA Website

Western & Co founder Hailey Nelson chats about the founding of her western fashion company and the viral leather jacket. Hosts: Mike Donnell,Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Hailey Nelson, Founder of Western & Co.Visit the WESA WebsiteVisit the APHA Website

Kaci Myers, Director of Design, on Dorfman Milano's legacy, style, and innovation.Hosts:Mike Donnell,Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Kaci Myers, Director of Design at Dorfman Milano for WesternVisit the WESA WebsiteVisit the APHA Website

Desiree Mills discusses the international scope of the APHA and its upcoming three-pronged retail business. Listen in...Hosts:Mike Donnell,Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Desiree Mills Visit the WESA WebsiteVisit the APHA Website

SpurWest Trading Co. founder Kipp Smith shares the story of the energetic SpurWest brand.  Listen in...Guests and Links Episode 128:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Kipp Smith of Spur West Trading, 4/9Visit the WESA Website

WESA Board Member and Sales Representative for Justin Brands pays another visit to Wisdom by WESA. Listen in...Guests and Links Episode 127:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Michael Baca of Justin BootsVisit the WESA Website

Jaylin Raymer talks about her transition from singer - songwriter to high fashion western wear entrepreneur spearheading Planet Cowboy’s growth. Listen in...Guests and Links Episode 126:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Jaylin Raymer of Planet CowboyVisit the WESA Website

The tested science behind Saddle Right pads accounts for the brand’s success spanning more than four decades. Listen in...Guests and Links Episode 125:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Yvonne South of Saddle RightVisit the WESA Website

Elizabeth Brady found hat burning to be a therapeutic activity aiding in her recovery from traumatic brain injury, leading to the birth of a successful businessGuests and Links Episode 124:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Elizabeth Brady | FacebookVisit the WESA Website

Following 8 years in the Air Force, Wendy Ozburn turned her talents to producing creative buckles.Guests and Links Episode 123:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Wendy OzburnVisit the WESA Website

Bill Hippel recounts his five decades in the western wear sales industry.Guests and Links Episode 122:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Bill HippelVisit the WESA Website

Tracy Halling Discusses Austin Accent’s Decades Long Focus on Accessories. Listen in...Guests and Links Episode 121:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Tracy HallingVisit the WESA Website

Clint Orms shares his story from rodeo beginnings to leading the thriving Clint Orms Engraving today. Tune in to hear Clint share the captivating story of his personal and professional evolution, offering an inspiring glimpse into the promising future of Western craftsmanship. Listen in...Guests and Links Episode 120:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Clint OrmsVisit the WESA Website

Jerry Beagley discusses how his rodeo life and tack business have been intertwined since college and his induction into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. Listen in...Guests and Links Episode 119:Hosts:  Mike Donnell, Kacee Willbanks Colletti, and Sophia JagellaGuest: Jerry BeagleyLink: Meet Jerry BeagleyLink: Back When They Bucked With Jerry BeagleyVisit the WESA Website