Retail Today with Bob Phibbs, The Retail Doctor

Retail Advice That Converts Feb 15, 2026 972 Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doc, hosts a live session covering essential retail tips: the right customer greeting, effective window merchandising, and how to use AI to improve hiring and listings. Short, practical takeaways include using a simple greeting, keeping windows clear so shoppers can see inside, and using AI to grade and rewrite job postings to attract better candidates.

Last-Minute Heroes: How to Sell to Men on Christmas Eve Dec 19, 2025 255 This episode gives quick, practical retail tips for selling to male holiday shoppers — especially last-minute buyers on Christmas Eve. Learn how to prepare your store, engage without overwhelming, offer visible high-impact gift options, and make returns and decisions easy so men can buy confidently. It covers what to show (big, bright, or cool), what to avoid (asking budget or following too closel

Is Black Friday Dead? Black Friday Nov 28, 2025 293 WBBM Noon Business Hour interviews Bob Phibbs, CEO of The Retail Doctor, about how Black Friday has transformed — from month-long online deals and softer store traffic to younger shoppers treating it as a social event. He explains why in-store experiences and human connections still drive most sales and what retailers must do to win holiday shoppers. The conversation also touches on tighter budget

Thanksgiving 2025 Nov 26, 2025 390 Podcast Description: Some of us aren't looking forward to Thanksgiving this year. Not the travel or the cooking. It's sitting across from people we love who now say things that used to live on the fringe like they're obvious facts. In this episode, I talk about how we got here. The stories we inherited that taught us "us versus them." How pop culture used to warn us about ignorance instead of cele

3 'Switches' That Decide If a Shopper Buys or Walks Out Nov 9, 2025 1086 On Nov 9 the Retail Doc breaks down practical retail strategies: the three customer “switches” (welcome → browse → buy) and how managers can spot and act to convert browsers into purchasers. The episode also addresses staffing/accountability (weekend sick calls), open-to-buy and merchandise turns, clearing seasonal inventory, pricing vs. discounts, and holiday merchandising tips to create wonder a

Connection Sells: The Retail Doc’s No‑Nonsense Guide to Boosting Sales Oct 5, 2025 1563 Bob Phibbs (The Retail Doc) hosts a live Q&A covering proven retail fundamentals: how human connection drives sales, why consistent training and accountability matter, and simple greetings that work. He tackles topics like cash vs. card behavior, creative merchandising and packaging, using AI and video for marketing, and ideas to boost traffic and conversions. Through real examples and listene

Beyond Discounts: How to Turn Passersby into Loyal Customers Aug 28, 2025 595 Discover simple, actionable ways to attract more customers to your store by focusing on experience over discounts. This episode explains visual merchandising, store layout, lighting, staff training, and small exterior touches that draw attention and convert visitors into repeat buyers. Also learn how to engage loyal customers through targeted CRM, events, and personalized service so you keep full-

The Art of Engaging Retail: Lessons from Scottsdale Aug 4, 2025 89 Join Bob Phibbs, The Retail Doc, as he shares insights from his recent visit to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he explores the art of engaging customers in retail. Despite visiting several high-end stores, Bob found that effective sales engagement was lacking, leading to missed sales opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of not making assumptions about customers, addressing the common misconcept

Unlocking the Secrets of Persuasive Communication May 2, 2025 2158 Welcome to another exciting episode of "Life is a Series of Sales Situations," hosted by renowned communication experts Patricia Fripp and Bob Phibbs. Join Patricia as she shares her invaluable insights into enhancing sales through powerful words and engaging communication. From unforgettable customer service anecdotes to groundbreaking sales strategies, this episode covers it all. Gain an underst

The Retail Challenge: Answering Your Questions on Customer Acquisition, Events, and Staff Management Mar 3, 2025 2027 In this episode of The Retail Doc's live broadcast, the host shares his newfound joy in birdwatching and how stepping away from daily routines can refresh one's perspective. While discussing the importance of finding a hobby, he addresses the common retail challenges many face today, such as customer attraction and market adaptation. The host highlights the pivotal role of systematic approaches li

Turn Negativity into Positivity: The Power of Activity Feb 17, 2025 76 In this upbeat episode, Bob Phibbs shares insights on how to tackle negativity and improve your mood through physical activity. With the year 2025 bringing unprecedented challenges, it's crucial to turn to movement as a strategy to transform your attitude and find that inner spark. Bob emphasizes the importance of not waiting for a change in feelings but taking proactive steps by engaging in physi

The Hidden Power of Network Infrastructure In Your Stores Feb 6, 2025 1076 In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked importance of network infrastructure in the retail industry. Discover how a strong network foundation can prevent costly downtime and enhance both customer and employee experiences. We delve into real-world examples of retailers leveraging advanced networking solutions to innovate and stay competitive, from implementing smart mirrors to personalized

Unlocking Retail Success: Creating Urgency and Overcoming Hesitations Feb 2, 2025 910 Join Bob Phibbx, the Retail Doc, in this live session as he discusses the current challenges facing the retail industry, particularly in the wake of rising tariffs and their impact on pricing. Bob shares practical advice for retailers on maintaining a positive mindset, encouraging movement to change attitudes, and the importance of looking forward with hope amidst chaotic societal influences. Disc

Unlocking the Secrets to Retail Success in 2025 Jan 5, 2025 2123 Join Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doc, for a special New Year’s live stream dedicated to invigorating your retail business in 2025. Bob addresses an audience from around the world, emphasizing the power of community and consistency in building an engaged following. With 350,000 LinkedIn followers and thousands more on other platforms, Bob shares his secrets to creating a strong online presence. Explore

How To Maintain Your Sanity This Holiday Season 1/3 Nov 29, 2024 105 Essential tips to maintain your sanity during the bustling holiday season. Bob emphasizes the importance of shopping early to avoid the rush and enjoy a better shopping experience. Understanding parking rules is another vital tip, helping you avoid unnecessary fines or towing incidents. Traffic and weather conditions will likely worsen, so planning your route and knowing alternative parking spots

How To Have A Successful Retail Holiday Season Nov 27, 2024 318 Join us for an enlightening conversation with Bob, the Retail Doc as a guest on WHAM Rochester, as he shares essential advice for small business owners competing with big box retailers. Discover how embracing events like Small Business Saturday and leveraging social media can help increase your customer base. Learn creative strategies to draw in customers during the holiday season and beyond, focu

Navigating Retail Challenges with Bob Phibbs LIVE Nov 10, 2024 1588 Join Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doc, for an insightful live session on November 10th. Bob addresses various challenges faced by retailers, offering his expert advice from over 30 years of experience in the industry. From the effective use of QR codes to engaging customers and preventing shoplifting, Bob shares practical tips to enhance your retail operations. Bob also tackles questions on managing sta

Transform Your Online Presence: Stop Losing Leads and Boost Conversions Oct 25, 2024 3267 Join Bob Phibbs, The Retail Doctor, and his special guest, Ben from No Bounds Digital, as they dive into strategies to stop losing online leads. This insightful webinar is packed with actionable tips to enhance your website and CRM, ensuring you convert visitors into loyal customers. Discover the secrets behind successful email marketing strategies and learn how to fix common website issues that m

Unlocking Retail Success: The Power of Customer Greetings Oct 24, 2024 326 Welcome back to another exciting deep dive! In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked yet incredibly powerful practice of customer greetings, guided by the insights of Bob Fibbs, the renowned "Retail Doctor." Discover how these initial interactions can transform a customer's experience in brick-and-mortar stores, creating a lasting impact on their perception and spending behavior. We delve

The Retail Engagement Formula: Technology, Training, and Incentives Oct 9, 2024 3513 Join retail experts Bob Phibbs (the Retail Doctor), Paul Landry (Lightspeed Commerce), and Andrew Duffy (SparkPlug) as we unpack the secrets to transforming grumpy retail employees into engaged, high-performing team members. In this eye-opening episode, discover how effective onboarding can set the stage for success, learn to leverage cutting-edge technology for improved employee performance, and

Christmas Creep: Unpacking the Early Holiday Hype Oct 3, 2024 343 In this episode, we explore the phenomenon of Christmas decorations appearing in stores well before Halloween. We delve into the reasons behind this trend, driven by retailers eager to capture holiday spending early on. Discover how these early displays tap into consumer psychology, creating a sense of urgency and fear of missing out, ultimately influencing our purchasing decisions. We discuss the

The Art of Standing Out: Creating Remarkable Retail Experiences Oct 2, 2024 453 Ever walked into a store and felt like it just blended in with every other shop? In this episode, we dive into what makes a retail store truly stand out and why just having products to sell isn't enough anymore. People crave unique experiences, and that's where Bob Fibbs, the retail doctor, comes in. We explore the concept of not being "beige"—blending into the background and becoming forgettable.

The Human Touch: Transforming Retail Experiences with Empathy Oct 1, 2024 440 In this episode, we delve into the nuances of customer service in retail, exploring the impact of those seemingly small interactions that can make or break a customer's experience. Guided by the insights from the article "50 Things Retail Sales Associates Should Avoid Doing," we uncover the power of first impressions, the significance of genuine engagement, and the importance of empathy. Discover

The Retail Refresh with Bob Phibbs: Special Guest April Sabral Aug 25, 2024 1349 Bob Phibbs hosts April Sabral to discuss key retail challenges. Topics include: overcoming the stigma of retail careers, motivating employees, managing accountability, acquiring new customers, and balancing manager-employee relationships. The experts share practical tips for small business owners and retail managers on leadership, customer service, and driving sales. Includes Q&A addressing co

Back-to-School Shopping: Costs, Inflation, and Smart Tips Jul 15, 2024 167 With August just two weeks away, students and parents are putting together their back-to-school shopping lists. Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor in New York, joins Rachel Pierson on the WBBM Noon Business Hour discuss the financial impact of back-to-school shopping and how inflation and modern tech needs are driving up costs. Bob shares insights into the National Retail Federation's statistics

Retail Rants & Realities: Hiring & Training in 2024 Jul 9, 2024 1653 Join me, as I dive into the challenges and solutions of hiring and training retail employees in 2024. In this live session, Bob answers questions from viewers, offering candid advice and insights on how to attract, train, and retain the best talent in the retail industry. I discuss the evolving expectations of today's workforce, the importance of proper training, and the need for competitive compe

Rediscovering Wonder: The Power of Curiosity and Innovation Jun 11, 2024 199 Join Bob Fibbs, the retail doc, at the Virginia Transportation Museum in Roanoke as he explores the significance of curiosity and innovation in shaping our world. Standing beside a massive steam engine, Bob delves into historical anecdotes, such as the origin of the phrase "the real McCoy," to illustrate the power of human ingenuity. Bob expresses concern about the current generation's lack of eng

Small Business Week: Stories from Notable Entrepreneurs Apr 25, 2024 873 "Discover the history and significant impact of small businesses on the national economy, as well as inspiring tales of resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurship from prominent business owners. President John F. Kennedy first officiated the celebration of small businesses in the first week of May, acknowledging their significant contribution to job creation and economic activity. Highlighting t

A Deep Dive into the Skincare Phenomenon Among Teens Mar 13, 2024 280 In this episode, Rob from WBBM NEWSRADIO delves into 'Sephora Kids,' an intriguing phenomenon involving tweens gravitating towards skincare, driven by social media platforms like TikTok. Speaking to us is Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor, based in New York. Bob explains how these young girls from 10 to 12-year-olds are watching skincare videos online, visiting stores like Sephora and Ulta, and

Boosting Retail Sales with Efficient Add-On Strategies Feb 14, 2024 109 Join Bob Phibbs, a.k.a. the Retail Doc, as he shares his valuable insights on how to boost retail sales by effectively utilizing add-on strategies. Having helped retailers amass millions in sales worldwide, Bob discusses the importance and practicality of add-ons - items suggested for purchase in addition to an initial acquisition. In this instructive episode, Bob demonstrates how a simple item li

Claim Your Part of Visa & MasterCard Merchants Payment Card Settlement Dec 18, 2023 93 Bob Phibbs discusses how Visa and Mastercard merchants based in the U.S., who paid interchange fees between January 1st, 2004, and January 25th, 2019, may be eligible for a share of a $5 billion refund. Bob emphasizes the importance of not dismissing mailed claim settlement letters and guides viewers on how to claim the money by scanning a QR code in these letters. Bob encourages his viewers to sh

Question and Answer with Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doctor 10-1-23 Oct 1, 2023 1744 How to effectively merchandise products in a small space? What to do with major disruption of your parking in your shopping district? And more with your questions answered LIVE by Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doctor

Retail Crime Is UpBut Most Refuse To Look At Why Sep 28, 2023 349 Target is the latest retailer to announce they were closing stores due to theft. While many want to blame lax laws and organized crime, there's one thing no one is talking about... #retail #customerservice #lossprevention And if you want to read more about how you can protect yourself from shoplifting as well as employee theft read my blog at https://www.retaildoc.com/blog/stealing-shoplifting-

Ask Me Anything with Bob Phibbs the Retail Doctor Jul 26, 2023 1513 Your questions about selling, marketing, theft and more answered LIVE with Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doc. Visit RetailDoc.com to learn more about his services.

Selling at Retail: There Are Two Goals Jun 14, 2023 274 Selling in a store is harder in 2023 than in the past two years. Why? Because if you had it in stock, you got the sale. Your sales skills atrophied. Now you have to think smarter and then clientele. Checkout SalesRX.com my online retail sales training program to have a process

Live Q + A With Bob Phibbs the Retail Doctor for May May 8, 2023 1911 How to use ChatGPT for your marketing, employee discounts, and more answered live.

Are your employees sabotaging your store sales? Apr 23, 2023 490 Today's story involves an associate who thought they were being helpful but robbed the retailer of a sale. Could this be happening on your sales floor? Key takeaways live with Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doctor

Refusing to Sell: Why Your Employees Are Letting You Down Apr 22, 2023 791 Today's story revolves around an employee who didn't want to sell. Could that be the case in your store? Register for the webinar here https://zoom.us/.../1516818218889/WN_uRDJS9mcSKC9Gi-Tc8AuCQ

Dirty and Unorganized: How It’s Driving Customers Away From Your Store Apr 22, 2023 573 Among the causes of customers not returning is organization and cleanliness. Join Bob as he shares a story and gives takeaways so you can improve your retail store. Register for the webinar here https://zoom.us/.../1516818218889/WN_uRDJS9mcSKC9Gi-Tc8AuCQ

Customer Service Horror Story Leads To Sleepless Nights Apr 21, 2023 627 In this story learn why when I went to buy a bed it became a nightmare and what you can do to keep a customer from saying, "Your customer service sucks." Register for the webinar here https://zoom.us/.../1516818218889/WN_uRDJS9mcSKC9Gi-Tc8AuCQ

How Stale Merchandising is Killing Your Sales Apr 20, 2023 663 Starting today,I 'm telling real stories to show how retailers stop customers from returning. First one How Stale Merchandising is Killing Your Sales Register for the webinar here https://zoom.us/.../1516818218889/WN_uRDJS9mcSKC9Gi-Tc8AuCQ

Discover the Secret Sauce Behind 6X Revenue Growth: Manhattan Associates’ Groundbreaking Unified Commerce Benchmark for Specialty Retailers Apr 14, 2023 1969 Bob interviews Ann Ruckstuhl, CMO of Manhattan Associates about their new Unified Commerce Benchmark created by Manhattan Associates, Google Cloud and Zebra Technologies. The retailers identified as unified commerce leaders outperform their competitors by as much as 6X in revenue growth. Listen to learn more and check out the findings of this landmark report here . #UnifiedCommerce #CheckoutExperi

Q + A With Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doctor April 2, 2023 Apr 2, 2023 1343 How do you handle an employee that doesn't take correction or work well with others? How do you win back a customer? How to introduce higher price points for your merchandise? And answers to your questions LIVE with the Retail Doctor. Tune in for expert advice, interviews and Q&A sessions. Join us every Tuesday at 7pm EST on admin5.podbean.com to learn the answers to these questions and more! I

Recession or not? Dec 2, 2022 63 Many pundits in the media are going to talk us into a Recession or maybe we're already in one. Doesn't matter at the holidays.

I Can’t Get My Crew To Take the Training Aug 22, 2022 112 Training has to be something you do, not something you did. The problem with not training your crew is they bring whatever bad impressions of how to help customers and retail in general right onto your sales floor. Here is what to do. And find out more about my online retail sales training program at SalesRX.com

How To Get Over Procrastination and Find the Time Aug 12, 2022 1059 Retailers can have a tough time setting goals and priorities. This means they often say, "but I don't have the time." You do, you just aren't looking at it the right way. This extended episode will help you see how to get over procrastination.

How To Get Customers Over Shipping Delays May 16, 2022 142 A question from Doug about getting customers to not be angry with supply chain challenges.

To keep or let go, that is the question May 3, 2022 91 Question: a new hire has been like four out of six shifts spoken to her twice. Am I crazy to let her go and possibly have to reduce my store hours while I take maternity leave soon?

Life doesn’t suck, so why sound like it? May 2, 2022 140 Today I'm sharing a tip about your mindset. Get it right and you sell more, you meet more engaging people, you enjoy your life. Miss it, and you talk in the language of disappointment.

Is it worth it to buy props for displays? Apr 13, 2022 112 Emily asked about the use of props in a display. “Is it worth it to spend a certain amount (%) on props that will not be for sale, to make your displays look good?” The easy answer is yes. At least $100 a month should be allocated for small stores. But creativity is the key. We have a whole merchandising section in my online retail sales training platform, SalesRX.com

How do different types of questions help customers get to the right products Apr 12, 2022 113 David asked, How different types of questions uncover needs and help customers get to the right products feeling confident they are making an informed choice. It's a bit more complicated than that. To find out more how to train your crew, visit SalesRX.com, my online retail sales training program.

Getting Shoppers in the Mood Dec 1, 2021 71 The news isn't going to get better anytime soon. How you help customers distance themselves from stress gets them to buy more.

The counter is your enemy Nov 30, 2021 81 If you work in photography or jewelry you're used to working from behind the counter. Here's the thing, any furniture or obstacle between you and the customer limits your ability to bond.

Re-set Monday, Keep Your Merchandise Fresh Nov 29, 2021 97 After a big weekend it feels great but don't get lazy. Resetting your store is a necessary not only for shoppers but employees.

Using the Energy of Black Friday Nov 26, 2021 57 It's here! The official start to the holiday season! Enjoy it and use this day to be positive, not complain.

It‘s Thanksgiving Nov 25, 2021 62 A great day to remind yourself it's not about work and tomorrow but being in the moment. Here's what to do on this special day.

Speed of Service Nov 24, 2021 115 So many retail front line associates pride themselves on taking whatever time is necessary for a customer. But when the big crowds hit, what do you do then? Glad you asked.

Playing the ”yes” game Nov 22, 2021 79 So many retailers don't train their staff so those associates don't think about what they could be saying that gets in their way of the customer buying. Here's today's selling tip.

How to get more reviews Nov 18, 2021 69 Reviews drive search engine results so use this tip to get your share of ecstatic customers sharing their joy at working with you.

How to get customers to buy when they say they want to look around Nov 17, 2021 101 We hear it and it scares us, "I'll look around," or "I'll have to wait." Instead of closing down, use today's tip to get them to open their wallets and buy - without being sales-y.

What To Say When They Ask The Price Nov 16, 2021 90 So many salespeople fear a customer asking the price of something; especially if it is worth more than a few bucks. Use today's tip to stand up for full price and get the sale.

Why Not You? Nov 15, 2021 126 You would never accept someone treating your child or pet with the kind of words you often hear in your head. Today's tip is about a choice - yours in how you listen to the chatter in your own head.

A Tip If You Sell Luxury or Premium Merchandise or Services Nov 12, 2021 95 To understand the world of luxury and those customers, make sure you are familiar with other brands those customers buy using this tip.

Did you hear me? Nov 11, 2021 87 Having to repeat yourself is a deal killer. Use this tip to make more sales and manage your associates better.

Find Something To Like Nov 10, 2021 91 So many retail associates take themselves out of the sale because they are looking for reasons someone doesn't belong in the store, they say or do something a bit different - even dress unlike the associates. But the more you look for reasons not to engage, the more that will cost you.

It‘s So Expensive! Nov 9, 2021 99 Sticker shock can happen to anyone who doesn't buy something on a regular basis. But you must deal with the "it's so expensive" both in your own mind and in the customer if you want to hit goal sooner.

What to do if you‘re feeling under pressure Nov 8, 2021 66 Having goals and feeling stress and being under pressure has two sides. Let me help flip your mindset in today's episode.

Show me the picture! Nov 6, 2021 59 Whatever you are selling it is always tough to know how someone is going to use something or what they have already. Use today's tip to get that information without being pushy.

To be the best salesperson, do this Nov 5, 2021 90 So many retail salespeople start at the bottom and try to work up but that limits your ability to sell the best products. Use this tip to be the best salesperson.

Google My Business Tip Nov 4, 2021 76 So many retailers forget this one tip for using Google to their advantage. You'll need it this supply-shortage holiday so take a listen.

Make the first sale of the day Nov 3, 2021 1 When your employees see you actively selling that first customer, it makes it much harder for those associates to stand behind your counter and groan "No one's buying". Speed of the leader = speed of the group

Building Rapport at the Counter is a Waste Nov 1, 2021 55 It is easy to get into conversation with customers after they have purchased something from you - there's no risk. And yet that is the worst place to do it and here's why.

Don‘t Get Stuck In Supply Chain News Oct 30, 2021 173 A lot of press is focused on supply chain issues. They exist but consumers don't care about that. Here's what is more important than complaining about shortages.

How to Stop Shoplifting Oct 28, 2021 173 The holiday season fills your store with shoppers but also all that activity is the perfect magnet for shoplifting. Use today's tip to help stop shoplifting before it ruins your profits.

Use Their Name Three Times Oct 27, 2021 173 Selling in a store should be more personal than online. But how to get the customer's name and how much to use it? Glad you asked, that's in today's quick episode.

Employees Waiting Around Cost You Oct 26, 2021 173 I was in NYC this past weekend and observed in many of the stores with "help wanted" signs on their doors - employees stuck in their phones and leaning. Unless and until you see what I see, customers will leave without purchasing. No matter how few employees you have.

How To Greet A Customer Oct 25, 2021 91 One of the most important ways to gain trust with a customer is to look them in the eyes and say the right greeting. But if you've never been trained, you probably just say, "Can I help you?" or "How are you today?" Both of those are bad. Say this instead.

How To Grow Your Sales 10% Oct 24, 2021 76 Everytime someone walks into your store they are ready to buy. Browsers are online, buyers come into physical stores. Use this tip to grow your sales 10%.

Good News At The Ports! Oct 23, 2021 64 Big news at the Long Beach port this morning which could save Christmas. Have a listen.

Use thank yous to set the scene for the next sale Oct 22, 2021 65 Do you thank your customers? At the time of purchase, of course. But your follow-up with a handwritten thank you can go a long way to cementing you as their store of choice. Here's another way to use thank yous to grow your sales.

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