Retail Relates

This is where commerce—and careers—get personal.

On Retail Relates, we dive into the evolving world of retail, commerce, and hospitality through the eyes of the people building their professional journeys. Each episode is a candid conversation about career growth, pivots, and the skills that fuel success, alongside the trends and tactics shaping our industry.

From traditional marketplaces to cutting‑edge platforms, from first‑time founders to seasoned executives, we uncover the lessons and connections that drive how we buy, sell, serve, and grow our careers in today’s world.

Because behind every product is a person forging a path.

Behind every brand is a team writing its next chapter.

And behind every transaction is an opportunity to learn, lead, and connect.

Join us as we share the stories, ideas, and career insights at the vibrant heart of commerce.

Contributors

Host

Paula Gean

Paula Gean is a seasoned global marketing professional with over a decade of experience in digital marketing. She excels in managing global programs, stimulating sales, and building vibrant online communities. Her career includes leading projects with the World Economic Forum and SXSW, generating nearly $100 million in B2B tech sales. Recognized as a thought leader in marketing and community cultivation, Paula’s comprehensive background spans marketing, sales, strategic planning, and community development. She crafts effective strategies that drive revenue growth and enhance brand visibility. As the producer and co-host of Retail Relates, she engages audiences and enriches discussions around marketing and strategic communications. Paula is passionate about collaboration and shared learning, aiming to achieve remarkable milestones in marketing and community development.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulagean/

Host

Rich Honiball

Co-Creator, Host, Producer

Rich brings a wealth of executive leadership, strategic marketing, and branding expertise to the "Retail Relates" podcast. Currently the EVP, Global CMMO for NEXCOM, he is known for his transformative impact on marketing and merchandising strategies that enhance patron value and brand recognition across diverse markets. Rich founded PDB Advisory Group & Brand(Co)Lab, advising CEOs on purpose-driven marketing and brand development. His corporate journey includes executive roles at Haggar, JCPenney & Brooks Brothers, leading significant brand and marketing initiatives. Rich earned his MBA from William & Mary and is an adjunct instructor at GMU, where he shares his extensive knowledge in retail and consumer behavior, contributing to the next generation of leaders. A recognized Top Retail Expert and an award-winning marketer, he is committed to mentoring and fostering leadership development.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhoniball/

Co-host

Gautham Vadakkepatt

Dr. Gautham Vadakkepatt is an Associate Professor of Marketing at UCF College of Business, with over a decade of experience in academia and industry. His research focuses on the intersection of market strategies and emerging technologies, impacting customer metrics, firm value, and social impact. Gautham has authored papers in top-tier journals and received prestigious awards like the 2021 Davidson Award and the 2015 MSI/H. Paul Root Award. He has developed and taught innovative courses on marketing analytics, technology, retail management, and business innovations, earning outstanding teaching awards in 2017 and 2021. As the founding director of the Center for Retail Transformation at George Mason University, he built significant private-public partnerships. Recognized as a top retail influencer by Rethink Retail and a Coresight AI Influencer, Gautham continues to shape the future of marketing with his insights and leadership.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauthamvadakkepatt/