Best National Retail Federation Podcasts (2025)

1
383. Amplifying the voices of small business owners 20:55

5d ago20:55

20:55

Small businesses power retail—they make up 98% of retailers in the country. Right now, small companies are grappling with economic and political uncertainty and facing an existential threat from tariffs. We talk to NRF vice president of advocacy and engagement Meghan Cruz about the devastating impact of tariffs and what NRF is doing to advocate for…

1
#114 The 2025 National Restaurant Association Show 21:56

5d ago21:56

21:56

Michael is just back from eating his way across the 2025 National Restaurant Show in Chicago where he visited with members and investigated foodservice trends. Past show attendee Katie Maher stops by the studio to grill Michael about the show, and they listen to an interview from the show floor with Blaine Stewart of Heritage Rice Company. With spe…

1
No More AAA - What the U.S. Debt Downgrade Means for Investors 24:54

11d ago24:54

24:54

With longer-term U.S. interest rates rising and no plan to reduce the budget deficit, is a U.S. national debt crisis imminent? Topics covered include: Why S&P, Fitch, and now Moody's stripped the U.S. of its pristine AAA debt rating How the U.S. national debt dynamics compare to Greece, Italy, and Japan What are four things investors should monitor…

1
Facing a Financial Squeeze: What Harvard’s Response Can Teach the Rest of Us 25:08

18d ago25:08

25:08

How can we apply the same emergency measures that Harvard and other universities are using to navigate a financial crisis? Also, how universities invest their endowments and what their performance has been. Topics covered include: What has led to the financial crisis at Harvard What actions has the university taken How do endowments invest and spen…

1
382. How San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan combats organized retail crime 29:45

19d ago29:45

29:45

Organized retail crime (ORC) is not a victimless crime — it can have a devastating impact on the real people behind retailers. Summer Stephan, San Diego County District Attorney, joins us to discuss the fight against organized retail crime. We explore laws and initiatives to combat the insidious issue, plus what local businesses can do to protect t…

1
#113 The Science and Secrets of Rice Seed Production 57:38

19d ago57:38

57:38

Retired rice breeder extraordinaire Steve Linscombe talks with Randy Ouzts from Nutrien, Tim Walker of HorizonAg, and Brian Ottis of RiceTec about the challenges of seed production, breeding methods, hybrid vs. pure line development, determining seeding rates, and how weather and technology shape the seed supply. Discover the cutting-edge practices…

1
Why Bond Investing Is Easier Than Ever 26:22

25d ago26:22

26:22

Discover how bond market ETFs have transformed investing — making bonds easier, cheaper, and more accessible than ever. We also explore how the bond market’s very composition has evolved. Episode Sponsors Delete Me – Use code David20 to get 20% off Insiders Guide Email Newsletter Get our free Investors' Checklist when you sign up for the free Money…

1
Investing in Emerging Markets with Ali Akay 34:34

1M ago34:34

34:34

Ali Akay, CIO of Carrhae Capital, answers why invest in emerging markets. He also shares with Greg Dowling of FEG insights on China, Mexico, South Korea, Argentina, Greece, Turkey, South Korea, and South Africa. Insiders Guide Email Newsletter Get our free Investors' Checklist when you sign up for the free Money for the Rest of Us email newsletter …

1
381. The innovators driving the future of retail 26:48

1M ago26:48

26:48

One thing is constant in retail: change. Innovation is the cornerstone of the industry. We’re joined by Seth Webb, executive vice president of Tusk Strategies, and Sucharita Kodali, vice president and principal analyst of Forrester Research, to discuss the transformative trends, cutting-edge technologies, and emerging solution providers that are sh…

1
Is the Rest of the World Selling America? 19:55

1M ago19:55

19:55

The U.S has traditionally been a safe haven for investing, but that hasn't been the case in 2025. We explore three economic and narrative regimes and consider why we may be witnessing a shift after 12 years of U.S. outperformance. Topics covered include: What was the narrative and economic and financial performance from 1995-2001, 2002-2012, and 20…

1
#112 Rice, Resilience, Representation, and Research Mentors 36:00

1M ago36:00

36:00

Dr. Angelia Seyfferth, Professor of Biogeochemistry and Plant-Soil Interactions, shares her journey from humble beginnings to having a lab with her name on it at one of the most prestigious research universities in the country. She talks about her innovative study of arsenic uptake in rice, the trouble of salt water intrusion, and growing rice wher…

1
Where Are We Heading? 26:09

2M ago26:09

26:09

In this episode, we explore what it means to invest in a non-ergodic world—where time, not averages, determines outcomes. We unpack concepts like volatility drag, ensemble vs. time averages, and the implications for portfolio strategy, while also reflecting on how AI and zero-click search are reshaping business and investor behavior. Topics covered…

1
380. How Vera Bradley transformed a legacy brand 24:49

2M ago24:49

24:49

Vera Bradley, the beloved purse, travel and accessory retailer, recently refreshed their brand look and strategy to increase brand awareness and expand their consumer profile. Vera Bradley’s CEO, Jackie Ardrey, joins us to discuss the brand’s transformation, the Vera Bradley customer and how the company stays ahead in the ever-evolving retail indus…

1
Is This the End of Globalization and Free Trade? 21:34

2M ago21:34

21:34

What will the impact be now that the U.S. has one of the highest tariff rates in the world? Topics covered include: Why the Trump administration raised tariffs How the last round of U.S. tariffs led to higher prices and lower economic growth Four ways the world remains close to record connectivity Who have been the winners and losers from global tr…

1
#111 The Federal Reserve Banking System and Rice 43:22

2M ago43:22

43:22

What, how, and why does the Federal Reserve do what it does? Hosts Michael Klein and Deborah Willenborg dive into a lively, humorous, and insightful conversation with Matuschka Lindo Briggs of the Little Rock branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis to get to the bottom of it all. From the Fed's ag advisory council to the Beige Book, and fro…

1
Is It Too Late to Invest in Gold? with Max Belmont - FEG Insight Bridge 38:31

2M ago38:31

38:31

Greg Dowling of FEG interviews Max Belmont, a gold specialist and portfolio manager at First Eagle Investments. Greg and Max discuss the historical, philosophical, and practical reasons for owning gold. Topics covered include: Where does gold’s reputation as a safe haven come from, and why it trades differently than other commodities. How gold diff…

1
379. Whole Foods’ holistic approach to merchandising and customer service 24:12

2M ago24:12

24:12

Whole Foods places its whole focus on serving and nourishing its shoppers. Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, chief merchandising and marketing officer for Whole Foods Market, joins us to talk about how Whole Foods stays ahead of food trends, builds trust with its customers and leads the industry in high-quality sourcing. She also shares her career journey, what …

1
Should You Investment 100% of Your Retirement in Closed-End Funds? 24:23

2M ago24:23

24:23

We compare three approaches to closed-end fund investing: Opportunistic trading, the buy and hold income factory, and a systematic approach of selling closed-end funds after 5% gains. We also explore the pros and cons of closed-end funds relative to open-end mutual funds and ETFs. Episode Sponsors Stawberry.me NetSuite Insiders Guide Email Newslett…

1
#110 The ROI of Rice Checkoff 35:05

2M ago35:05

35:05

The check off program is at times controversial, but do growers who pay into the program (and even those who don't) receive a good value for what they contribute? In this episode, Michael talks with Dr. Lanier Nalley, professor of ag economics at the University of Arkansas about his research into the ROI of the Arkansas check-off. Growers see order…

1
What Trump Wants Part 2 - How Trade Deficits and Capital Flows Can Harm or Help Countries 22:39

2M ago22:39

22:39

How trade deficits are making the U.S. poorer, while in the past they have made the U.S. wealthier. Topics covered include: Two ways countries can increase their competitiveness How savings always equals investment Why excess savings flows to the U.S. leading to a drop in U.S. domestic savings Why the U.S. current trade situation could lead to a de…

1
378. How Coach captivates consumers with visual storytelling 25:52

2M ago25:52

25:52

Coach is a visionary of visual storytelling and experiences. Giovanni Zaccariello, SVP of global visual experience for Coach, joins us to discuss the evolution of visual merchandising and how he tells Coach’s story to a global audience. He also shares the moment that changed his career trajectory and his advice for taking risks and following your g…

1
Tariffs and the Mar-a-Lago Accord: What Trump Really Wants 28:49

3M ago28:49

28:49

How the Trump administration is using tariffs as a negotiating tool to weaken the U.S. dollar and increase the global competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers. Topics covered include: Why U.S. stocks are falling, and recession risk is increasing How the U.S. dollar as the reserve currency is becoming a burden on the U.S. How the Trump administration a…

1
#109 E-commerce Evolution and the Future of Retail 41:48

3M ago41:48

41:48

How has the digital revolution changed the way we shop? Hosts Michael Klein and Lesley Dixon explore shifts in consumer behavior, from online grocery orders to AI-powered shopping assistants. E-commerce marketing expert Eric Martindale joins to discuss the future of retail, how brands can thrive in this space, and why digital shelf space is the new…

1
Why Japanese Stocks Could Outperform with Howard Smith - FEG Insight Bridge 48:15

3M ago48:15

48:15

This week on episode 514, we share a conversation between Howard Smith of Indus Capital and Greg Dowling of FEG Investment Advisors on why Japan could surprise investors over the next decade with strong investment returns. David introduces the episode by sharing his key takeaways from the discussion. FEG Investment Advisor is David's former institu…

1
377. How Pinterest wins with personalized content 27:42

3M ago27:42

27:42

Consumers turn to Pinterest for inspiration on everything from design and fashion to meal prep and so much more. Rachel Hardy, director of consumer product marketing for Pinterest, joins us to share how the brand captures such a wide and engaged audience. We explore the consumer outlook and emerging trends for 2025, including mobile spending, AI op…

1
Crypto: Innovation or Insanity? Meme Coins, Hacks, and Strategic Bitcoin Reserves 23:18

3M ago23:18

23:18

We consider the incongruency of a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, the latest crypto exchange hack, and how most participants lost money on the Trump meme coin. Given all that, we review some areas where cryptocurrency is helping individuals and businesses. Topics Covered What is the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve Why it makes little sense for the…

1
#108 AI on the Menu: Reshaping the Food Industry With Andreas Duess 1:06:25

3M ago1:06:25

1:06:25

How is AI transforming the food industry? Hosts Michael Klein and Lesley Dixon talk with Andreas Duess, CEO of 6 Seeds Consulting, about AI-driven data, virtual consumer panels, and predicting food trends. From the impact of Ozempic on grocery shopping to the viral rise of air fryers, this conversation reveals how AI can be a powerful business tool…

1
Unlocking Hidden Returns: How Mortality Credits Boost Retirement Income 25:44

3M ago25:44

25:44

How using a deferred income annuity can increase retirement income compared to an immediate annuity or a bond ladder. Topics covered include: How immediate annuities and deferred income annuities work What are mortality credits, and why they are a key diversifier Examples of how mortality credits lead to a 1% to 1.5% higher annualized return over s…

1
376. How Target’s consumer-first strategy drives success 19:58

3M ago19:58

19:58

Target hits the bullseye when it comes to serving its customers. Rick Gomez, Target’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer, joins us to talk about Target’s winning merchandising strategy, his favorite consumer trends and how shopping habits have evolved in recent years. He also shares the biggest lessons he’s learned in his illustr…

1
What Are Sovereign Wealth Funds and Does the U.S. Need One? 19:32

4M ago19:32

19:32

The U.S. and the UK each announced they were establishing sovereign wealth funds. We explore the purposes and types of sovereign wealth funds, how they invest, and some concerns with the U.S. establishing one. Topics covered include: What are the four types of sovereign wealth funds, and why the U.S. doesn't fit the typical use case How sovereign w…

1
#107 A Rice Retrospective 50:01

4M ago50:01

50:01

What’s changed the most in rice farming over the past 50 years? Four life-long farmers from Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, and California discuss the game-changing innovations that have revolutionized everything from planting and harvesting to nitrogen use, marketing, and tractor tech. From GPS-guided combines to the rise of semi-dwarf rice varieties,…

1
Contrarian Investing with GMO's Ben Inker - FEG Insight Bridge 50:41

4M ago50:41

50:41

This week on episode 510, we share a conversation between Ben Inker of GMO and Greg Dowling of FEG Investment Advisors on contrarian investing, deep value stocks, and the rise of passive investing. David introduces the episode by sharing his key takeaways from the discussion. FEG Investment Advisor is David's former institutional advisory firm, whe…

1
375. Tech, trade and taxes: What’s impacting retail in 2025 18:31

4M ago18:31

18:31

Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the National Retail Federation, joins us to explore the retail outlook, landscape and trends that are shaping 2025. We discuss how a new administration impacts retail and the economic policies NRF has its pulse on. Plus, Shay shares the best career advice he’s ever received. (00:00:00) Introductions (00:01:15) The…

1
How to Invest in Private Credit / Direct Lending 26:20

4M ago26:20

26:20

We explore what private credit, or direct lending, is and how to invest in it. We also show how it is similar and different from investing in leverage loans and CLOs. Topics covered include: Why more companies are staying private How private credit differs from the leverage loan market Why private credit is growing so rapidly What are the benefits …

1
374. Get ahead of the future of retail 25:08

4M ago25:08

25:08

If you had a crystal ball to forecast retail’s future, what would you see? Coming to you from NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show, we’re joined by Cassandra Napoli, head of marketing and events at WGSN, to tackle that question. We talk about emerging trends that may surprise you, ways to future-proof your business and how to get into the minds of young con…

1
#106 New Year, New Dietary Guidelines 25:55

4M ago25:55

25:55

Cameron Jacobs, USA Rice's vice president of domestic promotion, makes his 2025 debut on The Rice Stuff to discuss rice's role in U.S. nutrition policy, the process of updating the government's dietary guidelines every five years, and how USA Rice advocates for rice to be recognized and recommended as an important part of a balanced and healthy die…

1
Who Should Bear the Cost? Socialized versus Market-Based Risk Management 23:02

4M ago23:02

23:02

Natural disasters are becoming more severe and costly—who should bear the financial burden? We explore the tension between socialized risk and market-based insurance. Topics covered include: The surprisingly large percentage of natural disaster losses that are uninsured Why natural disaster severity is increasing A deep dive into the complexity of …

1
373. How LEGO builds community and embraces innovation 24:38

4M ago24:38

24:38

LEGO is a timeless, cherished brand for kids and adults alike. In a very special episode from NRF 2025 Retail’s Big Show, we’re joined by Martin Urrutia, head of Global Retail Experience and Innovation at LEGO. We talk about how LEGO continues to innovate while remaining true to its core values. We also explore the importance of brand storytelling,…

1
Where You Live Matters - How Geography Contributes to Wealth 26:07

5M ago26:07

26:07

How geography contributes to economic growth and can increase or lower the cost of living. Topics covered include: Why living in a developing country like Costa Rica is still relatively expensive How Amazon and e-commerce platforms lower the cost of living Why we should consider slowing down our rate of consumption How geography is impacting the ro…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

National Retail Federation Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen