Backstory & Beyond http://backstorybeyond.com/ en 2025 Northwood Retail Retail expert Ward Kampf sits down with trailblazing business leaders and disruptive founders to swap industry insights and uncover the real deal about some of the greatest cities in the world. With over thirty years of industry experience, Ward Kampf has developed some of the most impressive mixed-use assets in the country. Over the course of his career, he's identified and worked with business owners and entrepreneurs who are changing the game in their respective industries. Now, in Backstory & Beyond, Ward sits down with these change makers to share their stories and uncover the best practices that set them apart from their industry peers. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/5454a6fe-c732-11ed-9026-f72baebd721b/image/4304556892f330ad3c84e900ad188826.png?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress Backstory & Beyond http://backstorybeyond.com/ episodic Retail expert Ward Kampf sits down with trailblazing business leaders and disruptive founders to swap industry insights and uncover the real deal about some of the greatest cities in the world. Ward Kampf Retail expert Ward Kampf sits down with trailblazing business leaders and disruptive founders to swap industry insights and uncover the real deal about some of the greatest cities in the world. With over thirty years of industry experience, Ward Kampf has developed some of the most impressive mixed-use assets in the country. Over the course of his career, he's identified and worked with business owners and entrepreneurs who are changing the game in their respective industries. Now, in Backstory & Beyond, Ward sits down with these change makers to share their stories and uncover the best practices that set them apart from their industry peers. Retail expert Ward Kampf sits down with trailblazing business leaders and disruptive founders to swap industry insights and uncover the real deal about some of the greatest cities in the world.

With over thirty years of industry experience, Ward Kampf has developed some of the most impressive mixed-use assets in the country. Over the course of his career, he's identified and worked with business owners and entrepreneurs who are changing the game in their respective industries. Now, in Backstory & Beyond, Ward sits down with these change makers to share their stories and uncover the best practices that set them apart from their industry peers.

]]> Northwood Retail gibson@tribepictures.com Andrea Van De Vort: Using Social Media to Drive Brick-and-Mortar Sales https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward is back in San Diego to check in with Andrea Van De Vort, founder of a collection of multi-branded boutiques with locations across North County California. They'll discuss the dominant trends in women's fashion, the evolution of Andrea's own label, and how the business has harnessed the power of social selling to become a destination for both visitors and locals alike—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Van De Vort on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:30:00 -0000 Andrea Van De Vort: Using Social Media to Drive Brick-and-Mortar Sales full 2 13 Ward Kampf How this entrepreneur combined her business know-how and love of fashion to create a collection of destination storefronts This week, Ward is back in San Diego to check in with Andrea Van De Vort, founder of a collection of multi-branded boutiques with locations across North County California. They'll discuss the dominant trends in women's fashion, the evolution of Andrea's own label, and how the business has harnessed the power of social selling to become a destination for both visitors and locals alike—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Van De Vort on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail This week, Ward is back in San Diego to check in with Andrea Van De Vort, founder of a collection of multi-branded boutiques with locations across North County California. They'll discuss the dominant trends in women's fashion, the evolution of Andrea's own label, and how the business has harnessed the power of social selling to become a destination for both visitors and locals alike—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Learn more about Van De Vort on their website and Instagram.

Learn more about Northwood Retail

]]> 1456 Andy Phipps: Becoming the "Chipotle" of Haircuts https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward returns to Charlotte to meet with Andy Phipps, co-founder of Arrow, a collection of barbershops that deliver quality cuts across North Carolina. They'll dive into how Andy and his brother uncovered a new niche in an established industry, the must-haves for any successful business, and the playbook Arrow has used to "bootstrap" its way to 11 locations — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Arrow on their website and Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail Wed, 28 May 2025 10:30:00 -0000 Andy Phipps: Becoming the "Chipotle" of Haircuts full 2 12 Ward Kampf How Andy and his brother found the middle ground between chain barbershops and high-end salons This week, Ward returns to Charlotte to meet with Andy Phipps, co-founder of Arrow, a collection of barbershops that deliver quality cuts across North Carolina. They'll dive into how Andy and his brother uncovered a new niche in an established industry, the must-haves for any successful business, and the playbook Arrow has used to "bootstrap" its way to 11 locations — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Arrow on their website and Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail This week, Ward returns to Charlotte to meet with Andy Phipps, co-founder of Arrow, a collection of barbershops that deliver quality cuts across North Carolina. They'll dive into how Andy and his brother uncovered a new niche in an established industry, the must-haves for any successful business, and the playbook Arrow has used to "bootstrap" its way to 11 locations — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Learn more about Arrow on their website and Instagram

Learn more about Northwood Retail

]]> 1768 Michael Palmer: Carrying on the Legacy of a Beloved Ice Cream Brand https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward makes his way to California to chat with Michael Palmer, owner of McConnell's Fine Ice Creams, a Santa Barbara institution for over 75 years. They'll discuss how Michael became a part of the McConnell's legacy, why being a dairy farmer has become a quality differentiator for the brand, and what Michael looks for in a celebrity partnership—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check our McConnell's on their website and Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail Wed, 14 May 2025 14:00:00 -0000 Michael Palmer: Carrying on the Legacy of a Beloved Ice Cream Brand full 2 11 Ward Kampf How Michael Palmer took his branding expertise and turned a Santa Barbara staple into a nationwide sensation. This week, Ward makes his way to California to chat with Michael Palmer, owner of McConnell's Fine Ice Creams, a Santa Barbara institution for over 75 years. They'll discuss how Michael became a part of the McConnell's legacy, why being a dairy farmer has become a quality differentiator for the brand, and what Michael looks for in a celebrity partnership—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check our McConnell's on their website and Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail This week, Ward makes his way to California to chat with Michael Palmer, owner of McConnell's Fine Ice Creams, a Santa Barbara institution for over 75 years. They'll discuss how Michael became a part of the McConnell's legacy, why being a dairy farmer has become a quality differentiator for the brand, and what Michael looks for in a celebrity partnership—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Check our McConnell's on their website and Instagram

Learn more about Northwood Retail

]]> 1590 Paul Hedrick: Building a Nine-Figure Boot Brand through Radical Hospitality https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward drives down to Austin to see Paul Hedrick, founder of Tecovas, the world’s fastest-growing Western wear brand. They'll discuss Paul's approach to radical hospitality, Tecovas's evolution from DTC to brick-and-mortar, and what the award-winning television show Yellowstone has done for the brand—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Tecovas on their website. Follow Tecovas on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:34:00 -0000 Paul Hedrick: Building a Nine-Figure Boot Brand through Radical Hospitality full 2 10 Ward Kampf How one man took a start up boot brand and turned it into a nine-figure business This week, Ward drives down to Austin to see Paul Hedrick, founder of Tecovas, the world’s fastest-growing Western wear brand. They'll discuss Paul's approach to radical hospitality, Tecovas's evolution from DTC to brick-and-mortar, and what the award-winning television show Yellowstone has done for the brand—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Tecovas on their website. Follow Tecovas on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward drives down to Austin to see Paul Hedrick, founder of Tecovas, the world’s fastest-growing Western wear brand. They'll discuss Paul's approach to radical hospitality, Tecovas's evolution from DTC to brick-and-mortar, and what the award-winning television show Yellowstone has done for the brand—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Learn more about Tecovas on their website.

Follow Tecovas on Instagram.


Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1812 Kevin Murray and Kelli Larson: Changing the World of Children's Clothing https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward is in San Diego with father-daughter duo Kevin Murray and Kelli Murray Larson, founders of Rylee + Cru—artistic and imaginative clothing for the modern child. They'll break down how Kelli leveraged an existing social media following to successfully launch a debut collection, why philanthropy was built into the business model from the start, and when Kevin and Kelli knew it was time to expand into the world of brick-and-mortar—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about the Rylee + Cru Collective Follow Rylee + Cru, Quincy Mae, and Noralee on Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 16 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000 Kevin Murray and Kelli Larson: Changing the World of Children's Clothing full 2 9 Ward Kampf How one father-daughter duo brought a whole new aesthetic to children's clothing. This week, Ward is in San Diego with father-daughter duo Kevin Murray and Kelli Murray Larson, founders of Rylee + Cru—artistic and imaginative clothing for the modern child. They'll break down how Kelli leveraged an existing social media following to successfully launch a debut collection, why philanthropy was built into the business model from the start, and when Kevin and Kelli knew it was time to expand into the world of brick-and-mortar—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about the Rylee + Cru Collective Follow Rylee + Cru, Quincy Mae, and Noralee on Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is in San Diego with father-daughter duo Kevin Murray and Kelli Murray Larson, founders of Rylee + Cru—artistic and imaginative clothing for the modern child. They'll break down how Kelli leveraged an existing social media following to successfully launch a debut collection, why philanthropy was built into the business model from the start, and when Kevin and Kelli knew it was time to expand into the world of brick-and-mortar—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Learn more about the Rylee + Cru Collective

Follow Rylee + Cru, Quincy Mae, and Noralee on Instagram

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1807 Jim Noble: From Self-Taught Chef to Local Celebrity https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward meets up with Jim Noble, restaurateur behind three of The Bowl at Ballantyne's concepts: Bossy Beulah's, Rooster's, and Copain. They'll explore Jim's childhood on a Southern farm, how he helped turn Charlotte into a culinary city, and his commitment to using his talents to make good food accessible to everyone—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about the Noble Food and Pursuits Concepts Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 02 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000 Jim Noble: From Self-Taught Chef to Local Celebrity full 2 8 Ward Kampf Jim's journey to revolutionize North Carolina's food scene. This week, Ward meets up with Jim Noble, restaurateur behind three of The Bowl at Ballantyne's concepts: Bossy Beulah's, Rooster's, and Copain. They'll explore Jim's childhood on a Southern farm, how he helped turn Charlotte into a culinary city, and his commitment to using his talents to make good food accessible to everyone—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about the Noble Food and Pursuits Concepts Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward meets up with Jim Noble, restaurateur behind three of The Bowl at Ballantyne's concepts: Bossy Beulah's, Rooster's, and Copain. They'll explore Jim's childhood on a Southern farm, how he helped turn Charlotte into a culinary city, and his commitment to using his talents to make good food accessible to everyone—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Learn more about the Noble Food and Pursuits Concepts

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1597 Sarah Davis: What Retail Entrepreneurs Can Learn from Heritage Brands https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward returns to LA to meet with Sarah Davis, founder and president of the ultra-luxury re-commerce brand FASHIONPHILE. They'll dive into Sarah's early days as a law student with an entrepreneurial mind, what luxury resellers can learn from heritage brands, and how authentication is more science than art. All that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out FASHIONPHILE on their website and Instagram. Check out Sarah on X. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000 Sarah Davis: What Retail Entrepreneurs Can Learn from Heritage Brands full 2 7 Ward Kampf How a side hustle to pay for school turned into a luxury resale empire This week, Ward returns to LA to meet with Sarah Davis, founder and president of the ultra-luxury re-commerce brand FASHIONPHILE. They'll dive into Sarah's early days as a law student with an entrepreneurial mind, what luxury resellers can learn from heritage brands, and how authentication is more science than art. All that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out FASHIONPHILE on their website and Instagram. Check out Sarah on X. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward returns to LA to meet with Sarah Davis, founder and president of the ultra-luxury re-commerce brand FASHIONPHILE. They'll dive into Sarah's early days as a law student with an entrepreneurial mind, what luxury resellers can learn from heritage brands, and how authentication is more science than art. All that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Check out FASHIONPHILE on their website and Instagram.

Check out Sarah on X.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1567 Nate Checketts: Using Retail to Champion Fitness in All Its Forms https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward travels to New York to chat with Nate Checketts, founder of Rhone, a performance lifestyle brand dedicated to championing fitness in all its forms. They'll break down the importance of focusing on mental health in the world of athletics, the power of in-person interactions in brick-and-mortar stores, and how technology is innovating custom-made clothing — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out Rhone on their website and Instagram. Check out Nate on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000 Nate Checketts: Using Retail to Champion Fitness in All Its Forms full 2 6 Ward Kampf One man's journey to create a performance lifestyle brand that builds strong bodies and minds. This week, Ward travels to New York to chat with Nate Checketts, founder of Rhone, a performance lifestyle brand dedicated to championing fitness in all its forms. They'll break down the importance of focusing on mental health in the world of athletics, the power of in-person interactions in brick-and-mortar stores, and how technology is innovating custom-made clothing — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out Rhone on their website and Instagram. Check out Nate on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward travels to New York to chat with Nate Checketts, founder of Rhone, a performance lifestyle brand dedicated to championing fitness in all its forms. They'll break down the importance of focusing on mental health in the world of athletics, the power of in-person interactions in brick-and-mortar stores, and how technology is innovating custom-made clothing — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Check out Rhone on their website and Instagram.

Check out Nate on Instagram.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1493 Khalil Rafati: A Journey from Addiction to Entrepreneurship https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward heads to Austin to meet with Khalil Rafati, author, motivational speaker, and founder of SunLife Organics, a juice bar brand with a celebrity following on a mission to love, heal, and inspire. They'll dive into Khalil's journey from addiction to entrepreneurship, the power of a single act of kindness, and how far Khalil will go to source the perfect ingredient — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out SunLife Organics on their website and Instagram. Check out Khalil on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000 Khalil Rafati: A Journey from Addiction to Entrepreneurship full 2 5 Ward Kampf How Khalil built a juice bar brand with a celebrity following on a mission to love, heal. and inspire This week, Ward heads to Austin to meet with Khalil Rafati, author, motivational speaker, and founder of SunLife Organics, a juice bar brand with a celebrity following on a mission to love, heal, and inspire. They'll dive into Khalil's journey from addiction to entrepreneurship, the power of a single act of kindness, and how far Khalil will go to source the perfect ingredient — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out SunLife Organics on their website and Instagram. Check out Khalil on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward heads to Austin to meet with Khalil Rafati, author, motivational speaker, and founder of SunLife Organics, a juice bar brand with a celebrity following on a mission to love, heal, and inspire. They'll dive into Khalil's journey from addiction to entrepreneurship, the power of a single act of kindness, and how far Khalil will go to source the perfect ingredient — all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Check out SunLife Organics on their website and Instagram.

Check out Khalil on Instagram.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1856 Jacqueline Fitch-Little: Building Business Relationships that Last https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward sits down with Jacqueline Fitch-Little, Senior Vice President of Retail Leasing at Northwood Retail and Principal of Merch. They'll introduce Jac's new affiliate retail leasing consulting business, share the keys to building long-lasting retail relationships, and predict the retail trends that will dominate 2025—all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out Merch on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000 Jacqueline Fitch-Little: Building Business Relationships that Last full 2 4 Ward Kampf How Jac has executed over 85 first-to-market brand deals by building relationships that last. This week, Ward sits down with Jacqueline Fitch-Little, Senior Vice President of Retail Leasing at Northwood Retail and Principal of Merch. They'll introduce Jac's new affiliate retail leasing consulting business, share the keys to building long-lasting retail relationships, and predict the retail trends that will dominate 2025—all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out Merch on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward sits down with Jacqueline Fitch-Little, Senior Vice President of Retail Leasing at Northwood Retail and Principal of Merch. They'll introduce Jac's new affiliate retail leasing consulting business, share the keys to building long-lasting retail relationships, and predict the retail trends that will dominate 2025—all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond.


Check out Merch on their website and Instagram.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1725 Nicole Trunfio: Turning a Brand into a Village of Support for Moms https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward sits down with Nicole Trunfio, founder of BUMPSUIT, a fashion maternity brand that's disrupting the marketplace. They'll discuss the origins of the namesake garment, BUMPSUIT's entry into the world of brick-and-mortar, and the healing power of community — all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out BUMPSUIT on their website and Instagram. Follow Nicole on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 22 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000 Nicole Trunfio: Turning a Brand into a Village of Support for Moms full 2 3 Ward Kampf One mom's journey to create a company supports women through all stages of motherhood. This week, Ward sits down with Nicole Trunfio, founder of BUMPSUIT, a fashion maternity brand that's disrupting the marketplace. They'll discuss the origins of the namesake garment, BUMPSUIT's entry into the world of brick-and-mortar, and the healing power of community — all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out BUMPSUIT on their website and Instagram. Follow Nicole on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward sits down with Nicole Trunfio, founder of BUMPSUIT, a fashion maternity brand that's disrupting the marketplace. They'll discuss the origins of the namesake garment, BUMPSUIT's entry into the world of brick-and-mortar, and the healing power of community — all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond.


Check out BUMPSUIT on their website and Instagram.

Follow Nicole on Instagram.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1806 Joe Haubenhofer: Can Simplicity and Strong Branding Ensure Success? https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward is back in Charlotte visiting Joe Haubenhofer, co-founder of Harriet's Hamburgers and the branding agency The Plaid Penguin. They'll discuss nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit, the value of using an emotional connection to differentiate in a crowded market, and the unique origins of America's favorite sandwich—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out Harriet's Hamburgers on their website and Instagram. See The Plaid Penguin's portfolio on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 07 Aug 2024 09:10:00 -0000 Joe Haubenhofer: Can Great Branding Ensure Success? full 2 2 Ward Kampf How a hamburger joint made a name for itself through great design. This week, Ward is back in Charlotte visiting Joe Haubenhofer, co-founder of Harriet's Hamburgers and the branding agency The Plaid Penguin. They'll discuss nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit, the value of using an emotional connection to differentiate in a crowded market, and the unique origins of America's favorite sandwich—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out Harriet's Hamburgers on their website and Instagram. See The Plaid Penguin's portfolio on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is back in Charlotte visiting Joe Haubenhofer, co-founder of Harriet's Hamburgers and the branding agency The Plaid Penguin. They'll discuss nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit, the value of using an emotional connection to differentiate in a crowded market, and the unique origins of America's favorite sandwich—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Check out Harriet's Hamburgers on their website and Instagram.

See The Plaid Penguin's portfolio on their website and Instagram.


Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1743 John Marrino: Turning a Brewery into a Community Destination https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward heads to Charlotte to meet with European-Star-Award-winning brewer John Marrino, founder of The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. They'll discuss how four simple ingredients can create an incredible array of German-style beers, why competition shouldn't phase entrepreneurs, and how choosing the right tree can make or break a guest's experience—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 07 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000 John Marrino: Turning a Brewery into a Community Destination full 2 1 Ward Kampf How one entrepreneur turned a passion for German-style beer into a destination business. This week, Ward heads to Charlotte to meet with European-Star-Award-winning brewer John Marrino, founder of The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. They'll discuss how four simple ingredients can create an incredible array of German-style beers, why competition shouldn't phase entrepreneurs, and how choosing the right tree can make or break a guest's experience—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Check out The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery on their website and Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward heads to Charlotte to meet with European-Star-Award-winning brewer John Marrino, founder of The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. They'll discuss how four simple ingredients can create an incredible array of German-style beers, why competition shouldn't phase entrepreneurs, and how choosing the right tree can make or break a guest's experience—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.


Check out The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery on their website and Instagram.


Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1556 Carol Roizen: Building a Business That Heals Through Food This week, Ward is in San Diego with Carol Roizen, co-founder of Parakeet Cafe, an eatery and juice bar with over a dozen locations across California. They'll discuss how a life-changing event started the journey to understand the intersection of food and health, why embracing change is essential for entrepreneurs, and what a cup of hot cocoa can teach us about business. All that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out Parakeet Cafe's menu and locations on its website or Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000 Carol Roizen: Building a Business That Heals Through Food full 1 12 Ward Kampf One couple's mission to use food to improve health outcomes. This week, Ward is in San Diego with Carol Roizen, co-founder of Parakeet Cafe, an eatery and juice bar with over a dozen locations across California. They'll discuss how a life-changing event started the journey to understand the intersection of food and health, why embracing change is essential for entrepreneurs, and what a cup of hot cocoa can teach us about business. All that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out Parakeet Cafe's menu and locations on its website or Instagram Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is in San Diego with Carol Roizen, co-founder of Parakeet Cafe, an eatery and juice bar with over a dozen locations across California. They'll discuss how a life-changing event started the journey to understand the intersection of food and health, why embracing change is essential for entrepreneurs, and what a cup of hot cocoa can teach us about business. All that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond.

Check out Parakeet Cafe's menu and locations on its website or Instagram

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1679 Erica Hanks: Differentiating a Retail Business in a Crowded Market https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward sits down with Charlotte-based stylist Erica Hanks, founder of SHOWROOM, a business dedicated to curating fashion collections for the working woman. They'll discuss how recognizing a gap in the market is the key to early success, why retail owners need to be working the store floor, and Erica's strategies for building a sustainable wardrobe—all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out all that SHOWROOM has to offer on its website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:34:27 -0000 Erica Hanks: Differentiating a Retail Business in a Crowded Market full 1 11 Ward Kampf One woman's path from stylist to fashion entrepreneur. This week, Ward sits down with Charlotte-based stylist Erica Hanks, founder of SHOWROOM, a business dedicated to curating fashion collections for the working woman. They'll discuss how recognizing a gap in the market is the key to early success, why retail owners need to be working the store floor, and Erica's strategies for building a sustainable wardrobe—all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Check out all that SHOWROOM has to offer on its website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward sits down with Charlotte-based stylist Erica Hanks, founder of SHOWROOM, a business dedicated to curating fashion collections for the working woman. They'll discuss how recognizing a gap in the market is the key to early success, why retail owners need to be working the store floor, and Erica's strategies for building a sustainable wardrobe—all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond.

Check out all that SHOWROOM has to offer on its website.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 2210 Randy DeWitt: How Exploration Propels Innovation https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward is in Dallas with restaurateur, food hall creator, and Front Burner Society founder Randy DeWitt. They'll discuss the necessity of pivoting with market changes, how innovation requires exploration, and how entertainment, experiences, and great food can combine to create a destination venue —all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Randy's concepts. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Randy DeWitt: How Exploration Propels Innovation full 1 10 Ward Kampf How one restaurateur has perfected the food hall concept with a holistic approach to discovery and development. This week, Ward is in Dallas with restaurateur, food hall creator, and Front Burner Society founder Randy DeWitt. They'll discuss the necessity of pivoting with market changes, how innovation requires exploration, and how entertainment, experiences, and great food can combine to create a destination venue —all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Randy's concepts. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is in Dallas with restaurateur, food hall creator, and Front Burner Society founder Randy DeWitt. They'll discuss the necessity of pivoting with market changes, how innovation requires exploration, and how entertainment, experiences, and great food can combine to create a destination venue —all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Learn more about Randy's concepts.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1955 Alex Faherty: From Childhood Dream to Global Brand https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward is in Manhattan with Alex Faherty, co-founder of the family-led clothing brand Faherty. They'll discuss how a childhood dream became a global fashion brand, where to draw the line between inspiration and appropriation, and why a great retail experience starts with the front line—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Faherty on Instagram or the website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Alex Faherty: From Childhood Dream to Global Brand full 1 9 Ward Kampf How the Faherty brothers made their childhood dream a reality. This week, Ward is in Manhattan with Alex Faherty, co-founder of the family-led clothing brand Faherty. They'll discuss how a childhood dream became a global fashion brand, where to draw the line between inspiration and appropriation, and why a great retail experience starts with the front line—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Learn more about Faherty on Instagram or the website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is in Manhattan with Alex Faherty, co-founder of the family-led clothing brand Faherty. They'll discuss how a childhood dream became a global fashion brand, where to draw the line between inspiration and appropriation, and why a great retail experience starts with the front line—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Learn more about Faherty on Instagram or the website.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1898 Lauren Bailey & Craig DeMarco: Unique Restaurants that Make People Feel Good https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward heads to Phoenix to chat with Lauren Bailey and Craig DeMarco, founders of Upward Projects, a restaurant group united around one simple mission — to make people feel good. They'll discuss how honest feedback can revolutionize a business and why unique is worth the extra effort. Plus, a surprise guest appearance from one of Ward's nearest and dearest — all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Learn more about Upward Projects on Instagram or the website. Keep up with the latest from Postino WineCafé. Learn more about Jacqueline and Northwood Retail. Wed, 30 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Lauren Bailey & Craig DeMarco: Unique Restaurants That Make People Feel Good full 1 8 Ward Kampf Two entrepreneurs on a mission to create unique restaurants that make people feel good. This week, Ward heads to Phoenix to chat with Lauren Bailey and Craig DeMarco, founders of Upward Projects, a restaurant group united around one simple mission — to make people feel good. They'll discuss how honest feedback can revolutionize a business and why unique is worth the extra effort. Plus, a surprise guest appearance from one of Ward's nearest and dearest — all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond. Learn more about Upward Projects on Instagram or the website. Keep up with the latest from Postino WineCafé. Learn more about Jacqueline and Northwood Retail. This week, Ward heads to Phoenix to chat with Lauren Bailey and Craig DeMarco, founders of Upward Projects, a restaurant group united around one simple mission — to make people feel good. They'll discuss how honest feedback can revolutionize a business and why unique is worth the extra effort. Plus, a surprise guest appearance from one of Ward's nearest and dearest — all that and more on this episode of Backstory and Beyond.

Learn more about Upward Projects on Instagram or the website.

Keep up with the latest from Postino WineCafé.

Learn more about Jacqueline and Northwood Retail.

]]> 1927 Gorjana and Jason Reidel: Creating Community Through Retail https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward heads to Laguna Beach to check in with Gorjana and Jason Reidel, the power couple behind the jewelry brand gorjana. They'll discuss the unique challenges that come with being both business and life partners, making the move from online to brick and mortar, and using retail to build community and connections—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find gorjana on Instagram or the website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 09 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Gorjana and Jason Reidel: Creating Community Through Retail full 1 7 Ward Kampf One couple's journey to build both a business and a life together. This week, Ward heads to Laguna Beach to check in with Gorjana and Jason Reidel, the power couple behind the jewelry brand gorjana. They'll discuss the unique challenges that come with being both business and life partners, making the move from online to brick and mortar, and using retail to build community and connections—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find gorjana on Instagram or the website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward heads to Laguna Beach to check in with Gorjana and Jason Reidel, the power couple behind the jewelry brand gorjana. They'll discuss the unique challenges that come with being both business and life partners, making the move from online to brick and mortar, and using retail to build community and connections—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Find gorjana on Instagram or the website.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1955 Kerri Davis: The Treasure Hunt of Exceptional Retail https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward is in Dallas with Kerri Davis, owner of Ellis Hill, one of the country’s most unique stores for luxury paper goods, personalized gifts, and custom home decor. They'll discuss treasure hunting for exceptional goods around the globe, how an intentional approach to growth can ensure success, and the importance of brick and mortar—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Ellis Hill on Instagram or the website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Kerri Davis: The Treasure Hunt of Retail full 1 6 Ward Kampf Why one entrepreneur is on an international treasure hunt for the best of the best. This week, Ward is in Dallas with Kerri Davis, owner of Ellis Hill, one of the country’s most unique stores for luxury paper goods, personalized gifts, and custom home decor. They'll discuss treasure hunting for exceptional goods around the globe, how an intentional approach to growth can ensure success, and the importance of brick and mortar—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Ellis Hill on Instagram or the website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is in Dallas with Kerri Davis, owner of Ellis Hill, one of the country’s most unique stores for luxury paper goods, personalized gifts, and custom home decor. They'll discuss treasure hunting for exceptional goods around the globe, how an intentional approach to growth can ensure success, and the importance of brick and mortar—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Find Ellis Hill on Instagram or the website.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1918 Francois Reihani: Kindness as a Business Model https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward travels to LA to visit with Francois Reihani, founder of La La Land Kind Cafe, coffee shops with a mission to support foster kids as they step into adulthood. They'll discuss the intersection between social-impact work and the business world as well as the value of kindness in today's divisive landscape—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Francois on Instagram or his website. Explore La La Land on Instagram, Facebook, or on their website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 28 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Francois Reihani: Kindness as a Business Model full 1 5 Ward Kampf How one entrepreneur is ensuring his business is making the world a nicer place. This week, Ward travels to LA to visit with Francois Reihani, founder of La La Land Kind Cafe, coffee shops with a mission to support foster kids as they step into adulthood. They'll discuss the intersection between social-impact work and the business world as well as the value of kindness in today's divisive landscape—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Francois on Instagram or his website. Explore La La Land on Instagram, Facebook, or on their website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward travels to LA to visit with Francois Reihani, founder of La La Land Kind Cafe, coffee shops with a mission to support foster kids as they step into adulthood. They'll discuss the intersection between social-impact work and the business world as well as the value of kindness in today's divisive landscape—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Find Francois on Instagram or his website.

Explore La La Land on Instagram, Facebook, or on their website.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 2299 Dana Telsey: Capturing Market Share Through Reinvention https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward is in New York City with retail expert and Wall Street dynamo Dana Telsey, founder of Telsey Advisory Group, a leading research, trading, and banking firm focused on the consumer sector. They'll talk about the latest retail trends, the value of an on-the-ground perspective, grabbing market share, and how to create a perfect team with Dana's Pizza Test—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Dana on LinkedIn or the Telsey Advisory Group site. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 07 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Dana Telsey: Capturing Market Share Through Reinvention full 1 4 Ward Kampf One woman's journey to create a world-class research, trading, banking, and consulting brokerage firm. This week, Ward is in New York City with retail expert and Wall Street dynamo Dana Telsey, founder of Telsey Advisory Group, a leading research, trading, and banking firm focused on the consumer sector. They'll talk about the latest retail trends, the value of an on-the-ground perspective, grabbing market share, and how to create a perfect team with Dana's Pizza Test—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Dana on LinkedIn or the Telsey Advisory Group site. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is in New York City with retail expert and Wall Street dynamo Dana Telsey, founder of Telsey Advisory Group, a leading research, trading, and banking firm focused on the consumer sector. They'll talk about the latest retail trends, the value of an on-the-ground perspective, grabbing market share, and how to create a perfect team with Dana's Pizza Test—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Find Dana on LinkedIn or the Telsey Advisory Group site.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1811 Susie Sarich: Using Hospitality to Drive Growth https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward sits down with Susan Sarich, founder of SusieCakes, an all-American bakery serving up classic desserts. They'll discuss how a focus on hospitality creates lifelong customers, the unique challenges of starting a woman-led business, and the powerful combination of hard work and luck—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Susie on Instagram. Keep up with SusieCakes on Instagram or place an order on their website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 17 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000 Susie Sarich: Using Hospitality to Drive Growth full 1 3 Ward Kampf One baker's quest to become a household name. This week, Ward sits down with Susan Sarich, founder of SusieCakes, an all-American bakery serving up classic desserts. They'll discuss how a focus on hospitality creates lifelong customers, the unique challenges of starting a woman-led business, and the powerful combination of hard work and luck—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Susie on Instagram. Keep up with SusieCakes on Instagram or place an order on their website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward sits down with Susan Sarich, founder of SusieCakes, an all-American bakery serving up classic desserts. They'll discuss how a focus on hospitality creates lifelong customers, the unique challenges of starting a woman-led business, and the powerful combination of hard work and luck—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Find Susie on Instagram.

Keep up with SusieCakes on Instagram or place an order on their website.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 2044 Jake Stewart: Combating Counterfeiters with AI https://backstorybeyond.com/ This week, Ward sits down with Jake Stewart, head of business development at Entrupy, an AI tool that can instantly authenticate luxury accessories. They'll discuss the growing resale market, the subsequent increase in counterfeit goods, and the role of AI in the retail space—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Entrupy on Instagram and on their website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 26 Apr 2023 04:01:00 -0000 Jake Stewart: Combating Counterfeiters with AI full 1 2 Ward Kampf How one tech company is cracking down on fraud in the luxury resale market. This week, Ward sits down with Jake Stewart, head of business development at Entrupy, an AI tool that can instantly authenticate luxury accessories. They'll discuss the growing resale market, the subsequent increase in counterfeit goods, and the role of AI in the retail space—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Entrupy on Instagram and on their website. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward sits down with Jake Stewart, head of business development at Entrupy, an AI tool that can instantly authenticate luxury accessories. They'll discuss the growing resale market, the subsequent increase in counterfeit goods, and the role of AI in the retail space—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Find Entrupy on Instagram and on their website.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 1918 Nina Berenato: The Power of Experiential Retail This week, Ward is in Austin with Nina Berenato, founder of Nina Berenato Jewelry and creator of the viral TikTok sensation Permanent Bracelets. They'll discuss the importance of failure for any entrepreneur, how Nina has built a roster of celebrity clientele, and the hidden gems of one of America's fastest-growing cities—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Nina on Instagram, TikTok, or shop her collection. Check out the bracelet bar on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. Wed, 05 Apr 2023 04:01:00 -0000 Nina Berenato: The Power of Experiential Retail full 1 1 Ward Kampf How one artist created a thriving brick and mortar store in the digital age. This week, Ward is in Austin with Nina Berenato, founder of Nina Berenato Jewelry and creator of the viral TikTok sensation Permanent Bracelets. They'll discuss the importance of failure for any entrepreneur, how Nina has built a roster of celebrity clientele, and the hidden gems of one of America's fastest-growing cities—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond. Find Nina on Instagram, TikTok, or shop her collection. Check out the bracelet bar on Instagram. Learn more about Northwood Retail. This week, Ward is in Austin with Nina Berenato, founder of Nina Berenato Jewelry and creator of the viral TikTok sensation Permanent Bracelets. They'll discuss the importance of failure for any entrepreneur, how Nina has built a roster of celebrity clientele, and the hidden gems of one of America's fastest-growing cities—all that and more on this episode of Backstory & Beyond.

Find Nina on Instagram, TikTok, or shop her collection.

Check out the bracelet bar on Instagram.

Learn more about Northwood Retail.

]]> 2636 Introducing: Backstory & Beyond https://www.backstorybeyond.com With over 30 years of retail experience, Ward Kampf, president of Northwood Retail has a unique ability to forecast trends and identify the businesses that are changing the game. As he travels the country, he'll chat with entrepreneurs who are making waves in their industries. New episodes coming late Spring 2023. To learn more about Northwood Retail visit https://northwoodretail.com/ Thu, 23 Mar 2023 20:21:00 -0000 Coming Soon: Backstory & Beyond trailer Ward Kampf Retail expert Ward Kampf travels the country to meet up with trailblazing business leaders. With over 30 years of retail experience, Ward Kampf, president of Northwood Retail has a unique ability to forecast trends and identify the businesses that are changing the game. As he travels the country, he'll chat with entrepreneurs who are making waves in their industries. New episodes coming late Spring 2023. To learn more about Northwood Retail visit https://northwoodretail.com/ With over 30 years of retail experience, Ward Kampf, president of Northwood Retail has a unique ability to forecast trends and identify the businesses that are changing the game. As he travels the country, he'll chat with entrepreneurs who are making waves in their industries.

New episodes coming late Spring 2023.

To learn more about Northwood Retail visit https://northwoodretail.com/

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