3 Rapid Retail Questions with Billie Asmus, Creator & Founder of The Repaint Tray

In this Retail Readiness Round, Roberta sits down with Billie Asmus, creator and Founder of Repaint Studios, to break down what founders actually need to know before bringing an innovative product to retail shelves.

Billie shares real-world insights on why market research must come before manufacturing, how skipping this step can lead to costly inventory mistakes, and what founders should validate before investing time and money into a new product. If you’ve ever thought “this is such a great idea, it has to sell,” this conversation is your reality check.

She also dives into a truth many founders don’t realize until it’s too late: getting on the shelf is just the beginning. Billie explains why continued buyer communication, customer education, and post-launch support are critical to earning reorders and sustaining retail success.

Finally, Billie breaks down which trade shows and entrepreneurial communities have been most valuable in her journey from industry-specific shows like the National Hardware Show to founder-focused networks like Entrepreneurs’ Organization and why not every trade show is worth the investment.

If you’re a product-based founder preparing for retail, already on shelf, or deciding where to invest your time and dollars, this episode delivers practical, experience-backed guidance you can apply immediately.

Listen to the full episode released Jan 5th, 2026.