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Category Analysis

Dive into expert category analysis highlighting key shifts in consumer demand, emerging trends, and innovation across retail sectors. From grocery and general merchandise to seasonal and specialty categories, Doing Business in Bentonville uncovers how retailers and suppliers are adapting to shopper behaviors, economic changes, and strategic growth opportunities.

The Mall is Back - But Not the Way You Think

The Mall is Back - But Not the Way You Think

Forget the dying mall myth. Latest foot traffic data shows a retail split into short, convenient trips and long, experience-driven visits. Discover how modern consumers are reshaping physical retail formats, why Gen Z is reviving indoor malls, and what this means for the future of shopping.

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Retail Media is Getting Crowded...And that's a Problem

Retail Media is Getting Crowded...And that's a Problem

Retail media networks are booming, but many are set to fail. Scott Benedict breaks down why the disparity between powerhouses like Walmart and smaller players is growing. Learn why scale, first party data, and the ability to prove incrementality are the only ways to survive the coming collapse.

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Ep. 17 - AI Readiness Overcomes Entry-Level Fear

Ep. 17 - AI Readiness Overcomes Entry-Level Fear

Recorded live at Heroes Coffee, this episode features leaders from Nestlé, Mars United, and the University of Arkansas. Learn how to navigate the AI-driven job market through emotional intelligence, relationship building, and professional polish. Discover how to stand out in retail commerce.

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Retail in 2026: Navigating Peak Ambiguity

Retail in 2026: Navigating Peak Ambiguity

Master the era of peak ambiguity in retail. Scott Benedict breaks down Forrester Research on economic volatility, discovery disruption across social commerce, and the realistic role of AI in 2026. Learn why adaptability and high quality product data are the new essentials for retail success.

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Ep. 1 - Building Sam’s Club: From Zero to $93 Billion

Ep. 1 - Building Sam’s Club: From Zero to $93 Billion

Discover the untold story of Sam’s Club with original manager Russ Robertson. We dive into the warehouse club business model, Sam Walton’s philosophy of innovation, and the leadership traits that built a $93 billion retail empire through ruthless expense control and operational excellence.

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Ep. 8 - Omnichannel Packaging Power

Ep. 8 - Omnichannel Packaging Power

Packaging is a channel. Matt Woolley of Designsteins shares how smart packaging, storytelling, and fast execution drive shelf and screen success, from PDP assets and micro video to sustainability tradeoffs and speed to market.

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Ep. 10 - Agentic Shopping Takes Over

Ep. 10 - Agentic Shopping Takes Over

Retail media went full funnel in 2025. This episode breaks down CTV, commerce media, in store screens, AI agentic shopping, measurement, and bold 2026 predictions to help brands plan smarter across the entire shopper journey.

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Stores Aren’t Dead. They’re Evolving

Stores Aren’t Dead. They’re Evolving

Digital shapes the shopping journey but stores still win the moment of purchase. This episode uses fresh data to explain why blended retail works, from social discovery and mobile research to BOPIS, curbside, and in store experiences that drive trust and conversion.

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The End of Easy Amazon Money

The End of Easy Amazon Money

Amazon is rewarding systems over stunts. This episode breaks down Marketplace Pulse data showing rising GMV, fewer sellers, and more million dollar brands. Learn why disciplined operations, analytics, and patience now define success on Amazon.

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