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Sorry, It's Discontinued: Celebrating Retail Associates, Retail History, and Community
Sorry, It's Discontinued: Celebrating Retail Associates, Retail History, and Community
Hosted by Hilary Nichols, a former luxury beauty manager with over 25 years in retail, this podcast focuses on the human side of the industry. Through conversations with retail associates, beauty advisors, fragrance specialists, makeup artists, and entrepreneurs, it explores their career paths, challenges, and lessons learned. Solo episodes offer honest reflections on the realities of retail work, from the humorous to the frustrating, while celebrating the brands, products, stores, and retail history that shaped the field. The show is aimed at current and former retail associates as well as anyone who loves retail nostalgia, beauty, and community.
Episodes
Max Factor: From Hollywood Glamour to Beauty Retail
Before beauty influencers, celebrity makeup brands, and modern cosmetics counters, there was Max Factor.In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, we're exploring the fascinating story of the immigrant, inventor, and entrepreneur who helped revolutionize Hollywood makeup and shape the beauty industry we know today.From his innovative Color Harmony system and Pan-Cake foundation to his
Why Is Getting Water at Work So Complicated? Retail Workers, Hydration & the Water Cooler
Why can something as basic as getting a drink of water become so complicated when you work in retail?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores drinking water at work, hydration for retail employees, workplace culture, and the strange rules some stores have about keeping water bottles behind the counter.From hiding drinks and sneaking sips between customers to walking across an e
Goodbye, Neiman Marcus Downtown Dallas: 112 Years of Retail History, Fashion & Memories
After 112 years, the historic Downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus is preparing to close its doors next week on September 30, 2026.In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, I’m saying goodbye to a store that became so much more than a place to shop.We’re looking back at the incredible history inside this building—from Stanley Marcus and the legendary Neiman Marcus Fashion Awards to the extravagant For
When Friends or Family Take Over a Customer’s Shopping Experience: A Retail Associate’s Perspective
Have you ever loved something while shopping… until the person standing next to you told you not to?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary talks about one of those retail situations associates know all too well: helping a customer find a fragrance, beauty product, outfit, or item they genuinely love only to watch a boyfriend, husband, mother, friend, or shopping companion completely s
The History of Revlon: How an Iconic Beauty Brand Changed Retail, Beauty & the Memories We Keep
What is the history of Revlon, and how did one nail enamel company become one of the most iconic beauty brands in the world?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, we’re exploring more than 90 years of Revlon history, beauty history and retail history from the brand’s beginnings in 1932 to its influence on lipstick, nail polish, cosmetics, fragrance, fashion and beauty advertising.We’ll look
Motivation vs. Inspiration in Retail: How Great Leadership Helps Retail Associates Care, Connect, and Grow
What is the difference between motivating retail associates and truly inspiring them?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores how retail leadership, sales goals, workplace culture, and fear-based management affect the people behind the counter.She discusses how trust, coaching, teamwork, and recognition can create accountability without anxiety and how retail associates can pro
Is Luxury Retail the Same Around the World? Customer Service and Retail Associates
Does luxury retail customer service feel the same everywhere in the world?After hearing about some of my niece’s experiences during a summer program in England, I began wondering how culture, class, race and nationality can shape the way customers and retail associates are welcomed and treated.In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, I explore luxury retail and customer service in the United S
Bloomingdale’s: The Big Brown Bag, Splash & the Magic of Retail
What made Bloomingdale’s one of New York City’s most iconic department stores?In this nostalgic episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary looks back at the history of Bloomingdale’s—from its beginnings in 1872 and the legendary 59th Street flagship to the Big Brown Bag, beauty counters, fashion, movies and pop culture.Plus, a trip back to the 1980s and Splash, when watching Daryl Hannah as Madis
American Girl and How Retail Becomes Part of Our Family Story
What happened to American Girl since the days of those magical catalogs?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary looks back at the history of American Girl—from Pleasant Company and the original historical dolls to Mattel, the evolution of the stores, and what it’s like to work for American Girl today.She also shares a personal memory of taking her daughters to the American Girl store w
Can Record Stores Help Save Retail? The Record Store Comeback: Why We Still Want to Shop for Music
Episode DescriptionRemember when buying music meant spending an hour inside a record store, flipping through CDs, vinyl and cassettes, talking to employees and discovering your next favorite artist?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the rise and fall—and surprising comeback—of record stores and physical music. From Sam Goody, Tower Records and the CD era to Napster, Spoti
The Mall and Store Escalator: Retail’s Most Dramatic Coworker
Retail workers have a love-hate relationship with mall escalators. When they’re working, they bring shoppers directly to our departments. When they stop, every associate is suddenly expected to become an escalator engineer. And when children, strollers, loose shoelaces and long dresses get too close, working nearby can become surprisingly stressful.In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hila
The Teenagers Keeping Retail Alive| Why Retail Associates Need to Look at the Teenage Shopper Differently
In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary explores a growing trend that many retail associates are noticing: teenagers are becoming some of today's most passionate and knowledgeable fragrance shoppers.From fragrance enthusiasts armed with TikTok recommendations and YouTube reviews to young customers saving their birthday money for their next fragrance purchase, Generation Z is
Work-Life Balance for the Retail Associate: Does It Even Exist? Retail Schedule Struggles
For many retail associates, the schedule can feel like it controls your entire life.Will your vacation be approved? Can you make that doctor's appointment? Did your shift change again? Can you attend that birthday party, family event, or concert you've been looking forward to for months?In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary explores the reality of retail scheduling, wo
The History of Le Bon Marché: Retail Workers, Benefits & the Birth of Modern Retail
What was it really like to work at one of the world's first modern department stores?In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary explores the fascinating history of Le Bon Marché in Paris and how this legendary French department store helped revolutionize not only the way people shopped, but the way people worked.Under Aristide and Marguerite Boucicaut, Le Bon Marché became a pio
Celebrating One Year of this Podcast | Thank You
Over a year ago, on June 5th, 2025, I hit publish on the very first episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued.At the time, I had no idea where this journey would lead. I wasn't sure if anyone would listen, but I knew there were stories that deserved to be told—the stories of the people behind the counter, the communities built inside stores, and the lessons we carry with us long after we leave
First Retail Job, Lifelong Lessons | Behind the Counter with Yani Nufio
What starts as a first retail job can lead to a career you never expected—and friendships you'll cherish forever.In this episode of Sorry, It's Discontinued, Hilary sits down with longtime friend Yani Nufio to talk about her journey from a teenager who fell in love with makeup to building a successful career in retail, finance, and mortgage lending.Yani shares how watching her mom put on
What If the Gossip Is Wrong?
We spend more time with our coworkers than almost anyone else in our lives—so why is it often easier to talk about people than talk to them?This week, Hilary explores workplace drama, gossip, assumptions, and the stories we create about one another. Through honest reflection, she shares why curiosity may be the most powerful tool we have for improving communication and creating healthier workplace
Onward and Upward | Behind the Counter with KingMega Fitness
This week, I'm joined by Mega of KingMega Fitness.We met by chance at Macy's while talking about our shared experiences in retail, and I quickly realized he had a story worth sharing.Growing up in a military family, Mega learned the value of hard work early. From working retail while attending Southern University in Baton Rouge to serving seven years in the Army, earning both bachelor&ap
Beauty, Faith & Real Estate | Behind the Counter with Alaysha Durall
This week, I’m sharing a conversation I recently had with my friend, Alaysha Durall, about beauty, faith, family, and following your dreams.Growing up in Lafayette, Louisiana, Alaysha fell in love with beauty while watching her mother apply Fashion Fair makeup and wear her favorite fragrance. That passion eventually led her to Houston, where she built a successful career behind some of the city&ap
Retail and the Beauty of Reinventing Yourself | Behind the Counter with Savannah Mayfield
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Savannah Mayfield to talk about her journey from growing up in Abilene, Texas to working in luxury beauty at Saks Fifth Avenue Houston during the launch of the Tom Ford fragrances counter.Savannah shares how her love for beauty started at a young age, inspired by her mother and grandmother, and how that passion eventually led her i
Standing Room Only: Retail Life
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the physical and emotional reality of standing all day in retail and service industry jobs. From sore feet, back pain, and retail exhaustion to the strange “retail sway” workers develop during long shifts, this episode dives into how years on the sales floor change your body, mindset, patience, and identity.Hilary shares personal stories
Luxury Retail, Metrics & Emotional Burnout
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the hidden pressure behind modern luxury retail and what customers may not always see behind the counter.From sales goals, loyalty metrics, staffing shortages, and emotional burnout to the changing reality of online shopping and performance-driven retail culture, this episode takes an honest look at how dramatically the industry has chan
From Retail to The Beauty Way | Behind the Counter with Jyoti Lohman
This week on Sorry, It’s Discontinued, I recently sat down with Jyoti Lohman, founder of The Beauty Way — a luxury body care brand rooted in intention, self-care, mindfulness, and reconnecting with yourself.From her early inspiration growing up with a mother who taught her the importance of nurturing yourself, to studying at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in San Francisco and
The Gift That Changed Retail
What started as a simple thank-you became one of the most powerful sales strategies in beauty.In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the history of the Gift-With-Purchase—popularized by Estée Lauder—and how it evolved from a relationship-driven experience into a value-driven transaction.From threshold shopping and constant promotions to competing with online deals, Hilary sha
Is the Beauty Industry Different Now? Mergers, Acquisitions & Change
Beauty is evolving—and mergers and acquisitions are a big part of why. In this episode, we’re going behind the scenes of what really happens when brands are bought, merged, or absorbed into larger portfolios. From growth and global expansion to formula changes, disappearing products, and shifting priorities, we’re talking about how these decisions affect the brands you love—and the people who brin
Retail Uniforms: From Control to Comfort?
If you’ve worked in retail, you know… the uniform isn’t just something you wear—it’s something you feel.In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary takes you behind the counter to talk about the reality of retail uniforms—past and present.From heavy, uncomfortable jackets and strict expectations… to the rare moments when a uniform made you feel confident, powerful, and like you truly belon
Retail Loyalty vs Reality
What happens when loyalty… isn’t enough?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the reality of retail in 2026—where years of dedication, consistency, and care can be overlooked in a moment.Retail isn’t just about sales. It’s early mornings, late nights, restocking, cleaning, building relationships, and showing up for people day after day. For many, it’s a career built over dec
Fragrance Then vs Now: What Changed?
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the evolution of fragrance—from the rich, layered scents of the early 1900s to today’s fast-moving, trend-driven launches.From Guerlain and Coty to the creation of Chanel No. 5 and the rise of aldehydes, this episode looks at how perfume became more than scent—it became identity.Today, fragrance is more accessible than ever.From departme
From Sneaking Makeup to Beauty Leader | Behind the Counter with Suqura Shannon
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, I sit down with my friend Suqura Shannon to talk about her journey through the beauty industry — and how it all started long before the counter.From watching her mom get ready in the mornings to secretly wearing makeup through middle and high school, her love for beauty was rooted in confidence, transformation, and self-expression.We take it back to our
My Krigler Boutique Experience
There are moments that remind us why shopping in person still matters—and this is one of them.In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary shares her experience at the Krigler boutique inside the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston, where luxury felt less about price and more about storytelling, craftsmanship, and human connection.Founded in 1904, Krigler is a historic niche fragrance house known
Beauty and Natural Artistry | Behind the Counter with Martin Vain
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Texas-based makeup artist Martin Vain to talk about how he first got into the beauty industry and the career path that followed.From early inspiration watching his mom get ready to discovering artistry through drag makeup and beauty videos, Martin’s passion for makeup started young. That passion eventually led him into the retail b
What Defines Luxury for You?
Luxury used to feel like an experience — the storytelling, the ritual, the moment behind the counter.But today, luxury is more accessible than ever, and the experience has changed.In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary reflects on what luxury once meant to associates and clients alike, how storytelling created value behind the counter, and how accessibility, global growth, and modern
Retail Therapy Check-In with Phaedra & Tiffany
Welcome to our first Retail Therapy Check-In — With Phaedra & Tiffany.In this episode, I’m joined by two incredible women for an honest conversation about the realities of freelancing in retail — navigating workplace culture, setting boundaries, and addressing “mean girl” dynamics in the beauty industry.We talk about retail leadership, emotional labor behind the counter, and what it takes to s
Leading with Authenticity | Behind the Counter with Tiffany Lopez
What does authentic leadership in retail really look like?In this episode, I sit down with Tiffany Lopez to talk about her retail journey — from veterinary technician to beauty roles at Sephora, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue. We discuss how she grew into leadership, the pressure of working behind the counter, and what it means to lead with heart in today’s retail industry.This is a conversation
Retail Leadership Cringe: "What do you do for us?"
Two leaders walked into the store on the same day. One introduced herself, learned names, and thanked associates. The other walked straight past them.It made me wonder — is kindness expected from women in leadership, but optional for men? Does it depend on the leader and not gender?In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, we talk about the invisible emotional labor of retail, the pressure of c
Houston Galleria: Dangerous… Yes. For Your Credit Card.
The Houston Galleria wasn’t just where we shopped — it’s where many of us got our first jobs, first paychecks, and first taste of retail life.From its Italian-inspired design and iconic ice rink to the beauty counters and department stores that defined luxury shopping, this episode celebrates the people behind the counter who created memories for generations of Houstonians.Because stores aren’t ju
Devoted to Retail… But Retail Isn’t Devoted to You
Saks Global’s bankruptcy restructuring isn’t just a business headline — it’s something retail associates are living through every day.Fewer hours. Smaller teams. More pressure. And still showing up with a smile.In this episode, Hilary talks about what it really feels like to devote your career to a store that suddenly feels uncertain — and why retail doesn’t run on strategies or spreadsheets, but
Retail, Real Estate, and Bankruptcy
Saks Global’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy didn’t happen overnight.For years, department stores have been pulled in every direction — rising costs, e-commerce pressure, real estate strategy, and shifting customer expectations — all while trying to preserve the luxury experience they were built on.In this episode, Hilary breaks down what Chapter 11 actually means, how retail slowly fell out of sync, and w
Retail Doesn’t Start on the Floor
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the vital role of Shipping & Receiving and Operations teams in retail. From unloading trucks and inventory management to stocking shelves, shipping orders, and handling returns, these behind-the-scenes teams keep stores running across beauty, fashion, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and more. This episode highlights the physical demands
Fit, Safety & First Impressions
Retail can look effortless when you walk into a store you love — but the truth is, it’s powered by real people working behind the scenes.In this episode, Hilary spotlights three vital Back of the House departments in luxury retail: Alterations, Loss Prevention, and Visual teams.From the tailors pinning and stitching confidence into the perfect fit, to LP associates monitoring patterns and protecti
An SID Update
In this quick SID update, Hilary thanks listeners for supporting her Monday Mini episodes and shares a new, sustainable release plan: one episode every Thursday, plus bonus episodes occasionally when inspiration hits.A reflection on retail burnout, creative ambition, and honoring the time listeners give when they press play.Includes a beauty spotlight featuring the Haus Labs Coral Highlighter, a p
National Makeup Artist Events, Team Pressure & Changing Beauty Culture
National Makeup Artist events were once high-budget, multi-day retail productions built to spotlight artistry and drive beauty sales. Behind the counter, these events required massive operational planning, client booking strategy, product education, and intense pressure on Account Executives, Business Managers, and beauty teams executing the experience.In today’s beauty retail landscape, influence
How Retail Pros Show Up When They're Exhausted
Retail and beauty pros are in the final NYE rush — last-minute makeup appointments, rejuvenating facials, and the pressure of showing up when you're exhausted. This episode honors the emotional resilience of makeup artists, beauty advisors, and skincare professionals closing out December retail season while staring down January hour cuts and smaller paychecks. A heartfelt reminder to pace you
Memories Retail Gave Me
Retail, beauty, and fragrance quietly shape the most meaningful moments in our lives — especially during the holidays. In this personal Christmas Day episode, Hilary shares how shopping in stores, discovering beauty favorites, and the scents of home and family became memory markers she still carries today. A reflective conversation about the emotional magic of holiday retail, nostalgia at the beau
Trust, Respect, and the Human Side of Leadership
What makes a great leader in retail?In this Mini episode, Hilary shares what truly defines strong leadership behind the counter — from trust and respect to emotional labor and leading with humanity. Drawing from her experience as a former luxury beauty manager, she breaks down how great leaders support schedules, use individual strengths, recognize effort, and create environments where teams feel
Stock Shortages in Retail
Stock shortages have always existed in retail — but today, the pressure they create is heavier than ever. In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores what really happens when stores don’t have the inventory they need, and how selling from empty shelves affects retail workers, small brands, and customer trust.From shallow assortments and inconsistent replenishment to buyer limitati
Crunch Time & Taking Care of Yourself
This Monday Mini is a quick check-in for the Retail Fam. Crunch time is here, hours are longer, and the demands are heavier. This episode is a reminder to pause, check in with yourself, and remember that you can’t show up for everyone else if you’re not showing up for yourself.💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here!Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode, plea
The Unspoken Rules of Fragrance Shopping
Step behind the fragrance counter for an honest look at the unspoken rules of fragrance shopping — the bottle sniffers, the silent walk-ups, the loud interrupters, and the customers who expect the world for a tiny purchase.Fragrance should be joyful… but behind the counter are humans navigating goals, pressure, and the emotional weight of customer interactions.This episode is a reminder that retai
Shopping In-Store Matters More Than Ever
Why are stores feeling emptier? Why are associates juggling five jobs at once? And why does online seem to get all the perks?In today’s Monday Mini, Hilary explains the real reasons behind the retail shift — and why choosing to shop in-store makes a bigger difference than most people realize. You’ll also learn how to support your local stores without even stepping inside.A simple, honest breakdown
How Neiman Marcus Changed Fashion
In this episode, Hilary takes you back to 1907, when Neiman Marcus opened its doors under unexpected circumstances — with only one founder present on opening day. From its fragile beginnings to the 1913 fire, the ambitious rebuild, and the rise of Stanley Marcus, this is the story of how a small 50-foot storefront in Dallas became one of the most influential names in American fashion.You’ll hear h
Holiday Schedules Part 2: Black Friday, The 2000s & Retail Today
This week, we’re diving into the real history behind Black Friday, how the 2000s pushed retail into full holiday overdrive, what it was really like inside major stores during December, and how COVID briefly changed everything. From long hours and blackout dates to the magic moments only retail workers understand, this episode breaks down why holiday schedules feel so heavy — and why joy still fin
Holiday Schedules: How It All Began
The holidays feel magical for shoppers… but for retail workers, December often feels like a marathon you never trained for. In Part 1 of this two-episode series, we’re taking a step back — way back — to uncover how holiday retail schedules were built over the last 100 years.From the glamorous department store palaces of the 1920s… to the bustling mall culture of the 80s… to the big-box boom of the
Retail Triggers & The Toll We Don’t Talk About — with Phaedra
it’s time to say the quiet parts out loud.In this episode, Hilary welcomes back her longtime friend and fellow retail veteran, Phaedra, for a raw, real, and surprisingly relatable conversation about the triggers, stress, and emotional toll that come with a life behind the counter.From morning meeting call-outs and impossible goals, to holiday chaos, demanding clients, toxic leadership, and the con
Million-Dollar Goals: What Commission Really Feels Like in Luxury Retail
In this episode, we explore what it’s really like working on commission in luxury retail, including new sales programs like Saks Global’s Seller Success Track. We discuss pressure, client relationships, burnout, and how sales goals impact departments like beauty, fragrance, RTW, shoes, jewelry, and men’s. Perfect for anyone working retail, managing a sales team, or curious about the emotional side
The Retail Mean Girl Effect: Why Culture Matters More Than Sales Goals
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary gets real about the “Mean Girl” energy that can take over retail counters, back rooms, and even leadership meetings — and how fear-based goals, gossip, and competition can destroy teamwork.From luxury beauty floors to corporate sales meetings, Hilary unpacks what really happens when kindness gets mistaken for weakness — and why choosing grace, em
The Fragrance Floor: Chaos, Charm, and Competition Behind the Counter
You can smell it before you walk through the door — the scent of luxury, competition, and pure chaos. In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary dives into the fascinating world of fragrance: where brands battle for attention, associates fight for their goals, and every bottle tells a story.From billion-dollar perfume houses to niche boutiques like The Scent Room in Dallas, Hilary unpacks
The Power of Retail Leadership
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the emotional reality of leadership in retail and the pressure managers carry behind the scenes every day. From department managers and beauty counter leaders to store directors, this episode takes a thoughtful look at what it truly means to lead retail teams in high-pressure environments.Hilary shares personal retail stories about the m
Retail Customer Service Isn’t What It Used to Be
In this follow-up episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued: Behind the Counter, Hilary takes a deeper look at how customer service in retail has evolved — from the golden age of department stores, handwritten thank-you notes, tea rooms, and personal connections to today’s fast-paced, digital-first shopping culture.Hilary explores how luxury retail, beauty counters, and customer service have changed ove
Retail Customer Service Then & Now
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued: Behind the Counter, Hilary explores how customer service in retail has changed over the years — from the luxury department store experience of tea rooms, personal service, and unconditional returns to today’s world of virtual styling, curbside pickup, beauty events, and fast-paced retail expectations.Hilary discusses the hidden pressures behind complime
Guided by Women, Shaped by Luxury Retail | Behind the Counter with Phaedra Thomas
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Phaedra to discuss her journey from growing up in Houston to building a successful career in fashion, fragrance, luxury retail, and leadership.Starting her career at Nordstrom, Phaedra shares how mentorship from strong women helped shape her confidence and career path, eventually leading her to become a Brand Account Executive.Hila
The Hidden Physical Toll of Retail Work
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued: Behind the Counter, Hilary explores the hidden physical health challenges retail workers often face behind the scenes — especially in stock rooms, storage areas, and back-of-house retail environments.From dust-covered vents and poor air quality to mold, construction exposure, and neglected maintenance, Hilary shares honest retail experiences about the w
Break Time: Why Rest at Work Matters
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary pulls back the curtain on the reality of retail workplace culture, sales pressure, and the struggle many retail workers face when it comes to breaks, burnout, and mental health.From skipping meals and rushing through breaks to constantly feeling pressure to hit sales goals, Hilary shares personal retail stories and honest conversations about work
When Corporate Visits Miss the Mark in Retail
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the high-pressure world of retail store visits and the emotional impact they can have on employees behind the scenes.From last-minute preparation and unrealistic expectations to leadership pressure, anxiety, and the need for employee recognition, Hilary shares personal retail stories and honest insights into what store visits are really
The Most Expensive Thing in Retail: Your Peace of Mind
Retail work is about far more than selling products. In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the emotional and psychological toll retail workers often carry behind the scenes — from shoplifting, workplace violence, and safety concerns to burnout, anxiety, high turnover, and the pressure of constantly working in unpredictable environments.Hilary shares honest retail stories and
Morning Meetings in Retail: Motivation or Misery
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary dives into the reality of workplace culture in retail and the challenges employees and managers face behind the scenes.From sales goals and employee recognition to stock issues, team morale, and the pressure of retail meetings, Hilary shares honest insights into what it takes to keep a team motivated in high-pressure retail environments. The epis
The Discontinued Lipstick: Why Beauty Lovers Get Emotional
What happens when your favorite lipstick shade suddenly disappears? In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary explores the emotional world of discontinued beauty products, luxury makeup culture, and the reality of working behind the beauty counter.From the historical “Lipstick Effect” to cult-favorite shades like M·A·C Cosmetics Fleshpot, Hilary shares why beauty lovers become so attache
Professional Makeup Artist & Beauty Entrepreneur | Behind the Counter with Rhonda Jackson
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with professional makeup artist Rhonda Jackson to discuss her incredible journey through the beauty industry — from growing up in a small town in Wisconsin to building a career in luxury beauty, artistry, and entrepreneurship.Rhonda shares how her early exposure to creativity, dance, fashion, and glamour shaped her passion for beauty be
Beauty, Bravery & Glitter | Behind the Counter with Starr Alexander
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Starr Alexander, known in the drag community as Aurora Starr, to discuss her journey from a small town in Louisiana to becoming a celebrated drag performer in New Orleans.Starr shares her early inspirations in beauty and makeup, her experiences growing into her authentic self, and the powerful role community and support played thro
Compassion, Artistry & Luxury Retail | Behind the Counter with Oscar Lara
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Oscar Lara to talk about his journey through the luxury beauty industry and how a childhood fascination with beauty, fashion, and artistry helped shape both his career and his authentic self.Oscar shares his experiences working with iconic beauty brands like Chanel, Laura Mercier, and Chantecaille, along with his current role as Ge
Retail Security, Leadership & Law | Behind the Counter with Alexa Campbell
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Alexa Campbell to discuss her journey from her very first interview in retail to working in the world of loss prevention.Alexa shares behind-the-scenes insights into retail security, team dynamics, training, and the fast-paced reality of protecting stores while supporting employees and customers. She also opens up about memorable e
Luxury Beauty & Self-Advocacy | Behind the Counter with Jazmine Davon
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with makeup artist and beauty professional Jazmine Davon to talk about her journey from New York to Houston and her experiences working in the luxury beauty industry.Jazmine shares insights on building lasting client relationships, navigating the pressure of luxury retail, balancing work and personal life, and learning the importance of
From Retail to Fashion, Millinery & Creativity | Behind the Counter with Philip Hannel
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Philip Hannel to talk about his journey from Buffalo, New York, to Texas and his unique path through the retail, beauty, fashion, and design industries.Philip shares stories from his early days working at Macy's, studying millinery at Central Saint Martins, and eventually transitioning into the world of interior design. The co
Fashion, Identity & Retail | Behind the Counter with Kenneth Keung
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Kenneth Keung to discuss his journey from Hong Kong to the United States and how culture, fashion, art, and retail helped shape his personal and professional path.Kenneth shares stories about adapting to life in a new country, the impact of customer service and kindness in retail, and the importance of individuality and self-expres
Retail Royalty | Behind the Counter with Olga Reza
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Olga Reza to talk about her inspiring journey through the luxury beauty industry — from raising a family to building a career in luxury beauty and becoming a successful business manager for multiple beauty brands.Olga shares stories from her time working with brands like Chanel and La Prairie at Neiman Marcus, while discussing ment
Hospitality, Retail & Hustle | Behind the Counter with Cole Hoang
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with Cole Hoang to talk about his journey from moving to Houston from Vietnam at 16 years old to building a career in culinary arts, fragrance, hospitality, and retail.Cole shares his experiences attending culinary school, working with renowned chefs, navigating burnout in both the restaurant and retail industries, and learning the impo
Beauty, Retail & Confidence | Behind the Counter with Jailyne Garza
In this episode of Sorry, It’s Discontinued, Hilary sits down with makeup artist Jailyne Garza to talk about her journey into the beauty industry — from early makeup memories and prom appointments to working in luxury beauty retail.They discuss creativity, confidence, self-expression through makeup, the pressure behind the counter, and the nostalgia of discontinued beauty favorites we still miss t
SID TRAILER
Trailer💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here!Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show.You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have
