A status check on Target’s turnaround progress
Sep 24, 2026
Show notes
About a year since Michael Fiddelke was tapped to take over the CEO post, the retailer has been making headway on its recovery with sales and traffic growth.
A sit-down with Ron Johnson
Aug 27, 2026
Show notes
The retail veteran shares his journey with Apple, the short stint with J.C. Penney and more ahead of the release of his memoir, “Shop Different."
How long can the consumer hang on?
Jul 30, 2026
Show notes
Discretionary retail sales have been surprisingly strong so far this year. The team discusses the reasons why and what that might mean for the rest of 2026.
The weight-loss era is not just about selling clothes
Jun 25, 2026
Show notes
Liza Amlani, principal at Retail Strategy Group, joins us to discuss how retailers and brands can successfully grapple with what she calls “fit volatility.”
What’s really happening at Lululemon?
May 21, 2026
Show notes
The team breaks down what's behind the pushback against the incoming CEO, founder Chip Wilson’s battle with the board and more.
Redefining Pacsun
Apr 30, 2026
Show notes
Brieane Olson talks about her book, “Co-created,” and her work as a merchant and now CEO in redefining the retailer for a new generation.
Consumer resilience in trying times
Mar 26, 2026
Show notes
Katie Thomas, lead of the Kearney Consumer Institute, joins The Backroom to discuss consumer sentiment, economic pressures and more.
Walmart and Target are not the same
Feb 26, 2026
Show notes
The team discusses how different the companies are, despite ushering in new executive leadership at the same time.
Saks Global and the bankruptcy that everyone saw coming
Jan 29, 2026
Show notes
The team chats about their recent visits to Saks Fifth Avenue’s Manhattan flagship and brings in Debtwire analysts to discuss the retailer’s Chapter 11 process.
Contemplating retail in 2026 with Doug Stephens
Dec 22, 2025
Show notes
The retail strategy adviser talks about trust in the age of emerging AI and the industry’s potential in shaping our society.
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
Stay Connected
