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Shelf Talks
Shelf Talks is the go-to podcast for entrepreneurs in the product space, offering insider insights on how to successfully get your products into retail stores and thrive on the shelves. Hosted by Roberta Townes, Shelf Talks features interviews with trailblazing female founders who have navigated the retail world. Each episode dives into real-life success stories, from building the perfect product to landing deals with major retailers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your business, Shelf Talks is packed with actionable advice, expert tips, and inspiring journeys to help you secure your spot in retail and grow your brand.
Tune in to hear the stories behind the products and learn what it really takes to succeed in the competitive retail space.
Also if you are looking for more knowledge, host Roberta Townes book 'Shelf Talk: A Step by Step guide to getting your Product in Retail Stores' is available on Amazon.
Shelf Talks
The Power of Representation: Ardean Miller, Founder of Mah Melanin’s Impact on Gift Wrap in Retail Stores
In this episode of Shelf Talks, host Roberta interviews Ardean Miller, founder of Mah Melanin, a groundbreaking brand in the gift wrap industry that focuses on diversity and inclusion. Ardean shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming the first Black-owned brand to partner with major retailers like Sam's Club and Hallmark. The conversation delves into the challenges she faced, the importance of preparation, and the strategies she employed to successfully launch her brand and navigate the retail landscape. Ardean emphasizes the significance of building confidence, understanding the market, and maintaining strong relationships with partners and customers.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to My Melanin and Its Purpose
03:35 Ardean's Journey: From the Hood to Entrepreneurship
06:04 The Catalyst for Change: Creating Inclusive Products
08:40 Preparation: The Key to Success
10:56 Building Confidence and Knowledge
13:43 The Product Development Process
15:56 From Samples to Sales: The Launch
18:24 The Power of Social Media and Community Support
20:33 Scaling Up: Managing Orders and Inventory
23:04 Retail Partnerships: Making It with Lowe's
25:24 Endorsements and Expanding Reach
27:50 Preparing for QVC: The Pitch Experience
30:18 Getting into Sam's Club: The Open Call Experience
34:00 Understanding Manufacturer Capabilities
35:32 Securing the Deal with Sam's Club
36:43 Preparing for Customer Engagement
38:36 Transitioning from Online to Retail
41:25 Building In-Store Experience
43:35 Overcoming Challenges and Breaking Barriers
49:10 The Importance of Relationships in Retail
52:34 Retail Strategy and Networking
57:10 Advice for Aspiring Retail Founders
Links:
Mah Melanin Website: https://mahmelanin.com/
Mah Melanin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahmelanin/
Ardean's Pitch Waitlist: www.pitchtoretail.com
Check out Sam's Club website to see what locations you can find her products!
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Contact us via email: Hello@shelftalks.com
Reach out if you know of a female founder with an impactful brand and retail story and leave a review if you found value in this episode!
Purchase the book Shelf Talk: A step by step guide to launching your product in Retail Stores by Roberta Townes Buy Book