Shelf Talks
Shelf Talks is the go-to podcast for female founders, product-based entrepreneurs, and emerging brands who want to learn how to get their products into retail stores and thrive once they’re there.
Hosted by Roberta Townes, a seasoned retail buyer, each weekly episode features unfiltered conversations with founders who’ve landed on shelves at top retailers. You’ll learn exactly how they pitched to buyers, built retail partnerships, scaled wholesale distribution, and grew brand awareness all while navigating the real challenges of building a product-based business.
If you’re ready to turn your product into a retail success story, discover what retail buyers look for, and gain insider tips on wholesale strategy, retail readiness, and in-store growth, this is your podcast.
New episodes drop every week, subscribe to Shelf Talks and learn how to get your brand retail-ready and thriving on the shelf.
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
5 Biggest Mistakes Founders Make After Getting Into Retail (And How to Win on Shelf)
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Getting on Shelf Isn’t the Win, Here’s How to Actually Succeed in Retail
Getting your product into retail feels like the ultimate milestone… but what if that “yes” is just the beginning?
In this solo episode of Shelf Talks, Roberta breaks down the hard truth that most founders don’t hear: getting on shelf doesn’t equal success staying and selling does.
After working closely with emerging brands and seeing firsthand what separates those who thrive from those who quietly disappear, she’s sharing the 5 biggest mistakes founders make after landing their first retailer and exactly what to do instead.
Inside this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why getting on shelf is only the starting line (not the finish)
- The critical mindset shift every founder needs to make
- How to create a retail launch plan that actually drives sales
- Why you must own your traffic (and how to do it effectively)
- What retail buyers really expect from you post-launch
- The mistake that kills your chances of staying on shelf fast
- How to use your first retailer as a blueprint for scaling
If you’re preparing to pitch retailers, launching soon, or already on shelf but not seeing the traction you expected this episode is your wake-up call and your roadmap.
Because the goal isn’t just to get into retail… it’s to win there.
🎧 Hit follow, share with a founder friend, and don’t forget to leave a review if this episode helps you think differently about your retail strategy.
Event Partner: Nourish Summit & Expo (Oct. 5-7, 2027 | Baltimore) - Use code SHELFTALKS10 for 10% off full registration https://bit.ly/4sx0Zba
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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! Hello@shelftalks.com
Purchase the book Shelf Talk: A step by step guide to launching your product in Retail Stores by Roberta Townes Buy Book