Welcome to Storefront Strategies

Discover the ultimate resource for bricks-and-mortar business owners with the Storefront Strategies podcast, hosted by Lee Midlane.

As a tech industry leader and advocate for women in business, Lee demystifies the complexities of running a physical store in today's digital landscape.

Gain actionable insights, practical advice, and inspiring success stories tailored to help you launch, manage, and grow your business.

Whether you're starting a cozy cafe or scaling your retail store, join our community for strategies that drive success and foster authentic, values-driven leadership.

Lee Midlane Lee Midlane

Ep/020: 5 Essential Habits ALL Successful Brick-and-Mortar Owners Swear By

What separates thriving brick-and-mortar businesses from those that struggle? It’s not just the perfect product or a prime location—it’s the small, daily habits that create long-term success. In this episode, we explore the consistent actions that help business owners work smarter, not harder.

You’ll hear how Katie, a bakery owner, transformed her business through simple yet powerful habits like morning planning, engaging with customers, and managing her inventory daily. These habits allowed her to build a loyal community around her store, proving that small steps lead to big wins over time.

If you're a business owner looking for practical tips to improve your productivity and build a strong foundation for growth, this episode is a must-listen!

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Lee Midlane Lee Midlane

Ep/018: How to Build a Community Around Your Business (and Why You Should)

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, we dive deep into the power of community building for brick-and-mortar businesses. You'll discover why creating a loyal community around your business can be the secret to long-term success and how it can transform your customer relationships. Through practical tips and real-world examples, we’ll show you how to engage your local audience, nurture lasting connections, and foster a sense of belonging that keeps customers coming back.

We also share the inspiring journey of a business owner who built a thriving community from scratch and how this helped them weather the ups and downs of business ownership. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing community, this episode provides actionable steps and key insights that you can implement right away.

Listen now to learn how to take your business to the next level by building a community that supports, grows, and advocates for your brand!

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Lee Midlane Lee Midlane

Ep/004: Mastering the Business Lifecycle: Proven Strategies for Every Stage

Join host Lee Midlane in this engaging episode of "Storefront Strategies" as we explore the business lifecycle, from the spark of an idea to potential renewal or exit. Discover practical strategies for each stage, including tips for effective planning during the startup phase, scaling operations during growth, maintaining competitiveness in maturity, and embracing innovation to avoid decline. Whether you're just starting or looking to sustain your business success, this episode provides essential insights to help you navigate and thrive at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey.

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Lee Midlane Lee Midlane

Ep/003: Jim Higginbottom’s Thrilling Leap from Law to Antiques!

In Episode 003 of "Storefront Strategies," host Lee Midlane interviews Jim Higginbottom, co-owner of Saugatuck Antique Pavilion, about navigating the different stages of the business lifecycle. From his background in law to managing a successful antique mall, Jim shares strategies for effective business management, the importance of systems, and the value of community support. This episode is packed with practical insights and advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey.

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