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Retail RetoldAuthor: DLC Management Corp.
The Retail Retold Podcast highlights community retailer stories from across the country and gives a behind-the-scenes perspective from business leaders in both retail and real estate industries. The shows episodes contain valuable insights that help solve the needs of entrepreneurs and real estate pros. Each week our guests share stories of what worked, what didnt, the ups and downs giving the audience a critical set of tools needed for business success. Join host Chris Ressa and new guests weekly for amazing insights and thought-provoking stories. Brought to you by DLC Management Corp. Language: en Genres: Business Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Main Street Isn’t Everything
Episode 342
Wednesday, 13 August, 2025
Can a Dead-End Street Become the Hottest Retail Destination in Town?In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa sits down with Howard Aspinwall, the dynamic owner of Mellow Monkey, a destination home décor and gift shop tucked away on a dead-end street in Stratford, Connecticut. Howard shares his unconventional journey from art school to chef, tech executive, and finally retail entrepreneur—starting Mellow Monkey as an online-only business before making the rare move into brick-and-mortar. He reveals how his eclectic background, unique product curation, and immersive in-store experience turned an unlikely warehouse location into a tri-state shopping draw.Howard also dives into his social media strategy, how humor and personality fuel customer engagement, the agility needed to pivot product lines, and the looming impacts of tariffs and supply chain challenges on the retail landscape. It’s a masterclass in building a retail brand that people seek out—even when it’s literally at “the end of the earth.”What you'll hear:Howard's diverse background includes art, culinary arts, and technology.Mellow Monkey started as an online business before transitioning to brick-and-mortar.The store is located in an unconventional area, creating a unique shopping experience.Social media plays a crucial role in driving traffic to the store.Howard emphasizes the importance of creating a fun and immersive environment for customers.The store features a constantly changing inventory of unique products.Customer acquisition costs online are high, making brick-and-mortar more profitable.Howard's approach to marketing includes humor and personal engagement.The store has a small but dedicated team that fluctuates with the seasons.Economic conditions are impacting retail, but Mellow Monkey has maintained strong consumer confidence.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Mellow Monkey13:22 Transitioning from Online to Brick-and-Mortar21:15 The Unique Store Experience24:56 Navigating Economic Challenges29:56 Connecting with Customers and Community
