Stories from the River
Stories from the River Podcast explores the personal journeys of our very own Memory Makers. Whether it’s interviews or standalone narratives, Stories from the River will bring you closer to what it’s like to thrive together, wherever in the company you may be. We’ll share personal experiences from our stores, Distribution Centers, Call Centers, and corporate campuses, giving listeners a front row seat to what it's really like to be a Memory Maker furnishing life’s best memories every day.
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Changing the Question You Ask Yourself: Career Advice with Ewa Szmigiel
11/20/2025
Changing the Question You Ask Yourself: Career Advice with Ewa Szmigiel
Welcome back to Stories from the River! Today we continue the Lake Norman Grand Reopening Celebration series, focusing on the newest transformation to Ashley 7.0 in Mooresville, North Carolina. Charlie Malouf, Broad River's CEO and show host, sits down with a Home Furnishings Expert and Million Dollar Memory Maker, Ewa Szmigiel. Szmigiel shares her journey from Poland to North Carolina, describing the challenges she faced transitioning to life in the United States and how she discovered her passion for working with people in the furniture industry. She talks about her progression through various retail roles, ultimately finding her place as a Memory Maker at Broad River Retail. Joy and fulfillment are important parts of one's working life, Szmigiel describes, and she takes pride in being able to build lasting relationships with guests and her team. Listening to this conversation, you really get a sense of the special atomsphere at the Mooresville location, Szmigiel is particularly fond of her team dynamics and store leader GM Nathan Jeter. (Listen to Jeter's episode from the Mooresville remodel here: https://youtu.be/Nl607F39JFQ. She continues to discuss the positive impact of the store renovation, focusing on the new sleep gallery and the general updated look of the showrooms. Stay tuned next week as Broad River's President and COO Manny Rodrigues sits across from two other long-time Mooresville Memory Makers and Home Furnishings Experts as they recount their experience with the latest Broad River store remodel. This episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Behind the Remodel: Nathan Jeter on Mooresville's Makeover & Operation 120
11/18/2025
Behind the Remodel: Nathan Jeter on Mooresville's Makeover & Operation 120
Welcome back to Stories from the River! We are continuing our recap series from the Grand Reopening Celebration of our latest Ashley Store 7.0 transformation in Mooresville, North Carolina. In today's episode, CEO Charlie Malouf sits down with Mooresville General Manager Nathan Jeter to discuss the remodel experience and results from the reimagined Lake Norman store, The Lake. The Mooresville Ashley store has been around for over 17 years, and its success was never questionned. Nathan Jeter and his winning team have stood out in the Company. However, this fall, the team at The Lake welcomed a long-awaited remodel of their beloved store to the Ashley 7.0 model. Expanding the Sleep Shop to twice its size and reinventing the showroom with the fresh 7.0 design will only help this team reach new heights in the coming season. In today's interview conducted in the showroom following the ribbon cutting held last month on October 7th, we get an insight into what Nathan and his team think about the brand new remodel. The conversation explores the journey leading up to the ribbon cutting, and they reminisce about the seventeen years since the store first opened, its journey to where it is now and the various wonderful Memory Makers who got it to this moment. Jeter particularly reflects on the instrumental impact that Renee Bradley has had on the store and how helpful Tim Sayles was during the construction process. In a surprising move, the Mooresville store managed to win Store of the Month, the presigious Yoda award, twice amidst the construction. Jeter credits this to his team of Memory Makers. He remarks that the team's resilient mindest, strategic planning, and the support of both long-term Memory Makers as well as some newcomers help make the Mooresville store the award-winning location. Stayed tuned for other conversations from this event as the stories will highlight Mooresville Memory Makers and their strength, resilience and ability to thrive during chaos. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Relive the Mooresville Grand Re-Opening: Speeches & Ribbon Cutting
11/13/2025
Relive the Mooresville Grand Re-Opening: Speeches & Ribbon Cutting
On October 7, the Mooresville store (also known as The Lake) reopened its brand new doors, with a bang and a ribbon cutting! On today's episode of Stories from the River, we bring you the energy and atmosphere from right before the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Broad River leaders attended and spoke at the event, honoring the current and past leadership of the store. Today, we are joined by Tony Barr, Corporate Chaplain of America, who leads us into the event with prayer and gratitude. Charlie Malouf, Broad River's CEO, takes the stage next, reminiscing on the store's history, acknowledging the ongoing dedication and resilience of the Memory Makers, past and present, to make this store what it is today. Next is Manny Rodrigues, Broad River's President and COO, who shares the stage with Dan Pieszchala, a long-time Million Dollar Memory Maker and Home Furnishings Expert whose dedication to the team is palpable. (Stay tuned for a full interview with Dan, coming later this month to the channel.) We hear from Tim Sayles, Broad River's Director of Facilities and Construction, and Lynn Knowles, Director of Merchandising and Visual Impact, and the two share their stories of how the store really came together. Coach Stacey McCormick, EVP of Retail Performance, takes the stage next and thanks the hardworking team, both past and present, for creating in The Lake an extraordinary store. He highlights the sheer determination of the Memory Makers in Mooresville, winning the prestigious Store of the Month Yoda award, not once, but twice, during the construction process. We also hear from Chris Berrier, Area Manager and the multi unit leader for this store, who takes a moment to thank Renee Bradley for her past leadership in the store, and tells a story of hitting a very important milestone back in the day. Nathan Jeter, the General Manager at The Lake, takes the stage next and expresses all of the gratitude towards the leadership team and his own Memory Makers. Nathan has been looking forward to this renovation for years, and now that it's finally happened, he's ready to accelerate his success at the store. Hear from Nathan next week, during a full interview, here on Stories from the River. Kim Harkness ends the episode with community impact. Broad River's partnership with Beds for Kids is super important, and on this opening day, an additional donation to Beds for Kids was made. Enjoy this episode, as well as the next four interviews from the Grand Reopening of the Mooresville location. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Broad River's Sleep Summit: Sales Success and Personal Growth
11/11/2025
Broad River's Sleep Summit: Sales Success and Personal Growth
In this episode of Stories from the River, we revisit the semi-annual Fall Sleep Summit, an event Broad River holds at the Charlotte Motor Speedway to help Home Furnishings Consultants level up their sleep sales game. Today you will hear from six Memory Makers as they recap their experience at the 2025 Sleep Summit. Christian Sonander and Domaniek Greene from the Boulevard Believe Jose Gonzalez from the Albemarle Aces Ken Wilcox from the Special Forces Kensley Phillips from the Flagship Enterprise Nasir Park from the Raleighwood Legends They discuss why this event is important to them, what their favorite thing they've learned is, and how they plan to apply this new knowledge to future success. Learn about the nuance of selling sleep, why sleep is important, and the transformative impact Memory Makers can have on guests’ lives. They recount memorable experiences and past success stories that have left a permanent effect on them. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Lessons from Bamboo: Charlie Malouf Shares Broad River's Enduring Philosophy
11/06/2025
Lessons from Bamboo: Charlie Malouf Shares Broad River's Enduring Philosophy
In today's episode of Stories from The River, Josh Hatchell, Broad River's Senior Retail Experience Manager, continues his conversation with Charlie Malouf, Broad River's CEO, in part two of Retail Operations "Get To Know You" session held on September 18th at Broad River's Fort Mill, South Carolina, campus. This conversation dives into Charlie's personal leadership approach, the future of Broad River, and the strategies he uses to stay connected with the Memory Makers across the stores. As Broad River is about to take root in a completely new part of the country, the audience members exhibit curiosity about continued growth and expansions they expect in the future. With humor and thoughful reflection, Charlie shares his vision for Broad River's next chapter, while at the same time sharing his vision and growth philosophy for the company, summed up in one word: bamboo. The realization is swift and effective, like Broad River, bamboo is resilient, adaptable, and grows quietly underground until it's ready to sprout and reach new heights. This is Broad River's strategy for the next chapter. Listen carefully for a behind the scenes insight into plans for innovation, motivational advice, and building your own leadership presence in the world. Books: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight - Soundtracks by Jon Acuff - All It Takes is a Goal by Jon Acuff - .amazon.com/All-Takes-Goal-Massive-Potential/dp/B0C5B4NH32 Listen to Part One of this Conversation: Getting to Know Charlie Malouf: Early Jobs, Failures, & Laying Foundation for Broad River's Culture - This video on Youtube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Getting to Know Charlie Malouf: Early Jobs, Failures, & Laying Foundation for Broad River's Culture
11/04/2025
Getting to Know Charlie Malouf: Early Jobs, Failures, & Laying Foundation for Broad River's Culture
In today's episode of Stories from the River, the host becomes the guest. That's right, Broad River's CEO and Stories from the River's host becomes the main conversation topic, as Josh Hatchell, Broad River's Senior Retail Experience Manager, along with a room full of Retail Opertions Memory Makers, ask meaningful and insightful questions into Charlie's past, present, and Broad River's future. This episode was recorded on September 18, 2025, from Broad River's Fort Mill, South Carolina, campus, during a session with Retail Ops called "Get To Know You" with a leader from Broad River Retail. For this session, the Retail Ops Leaders asked Charlie if he would be interviewed for this Q&A session. During this part one of a two-part series, we see Charlie candidly reflect on his personal and professional journey, sharing stories from his earliest jobs, the lessons learned along the way, and his philosophy about company culture. If you've been a long term listener, you'll already know Broad River prides itself on the culture they've built, and in this episode, you get a glimpse into its early creation. Charlie emphasizes how Broad River's culture is rooted in recognizing unique contributions of Memory Makers, building identities, and helping furnish life's best memories. He discusses his inspirations, touching on books, podcasts, and personal interests, and provides insights into the company's growth strategy and vision for the future. Enjoy this honest and open conversation between Charlie and the entire Retail Ops team and come back for part 2! Books: Everybody Matters by Bob Chapman and Raj Sisodia - A Million Little Miracles by Mark Batterson - Win the Day by Mark Batterson - Do It For a Day by Mark Batterson - Podcasts: Truly Human Leadership Podcast Acquired The Knowledge Project No Mercy, No Malice (by Scott Galloway) A Little Bit of Optimism (by Simon Sinek) This video on Youtube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Meet the Pioneers: Broad River's Key Retail Presentations During the Purpose 8:28 Experience
10/30/2025
Meet the Pioneers: Broad River's Key Retail Presentations During the Purpose 8:28 Experience
Welcome to the 4th and final episode from our "Pioneering the Path - a Purpose 8:28 Experience" series. In this episode of Stories from the River, we bring you a special, behind-the-scenes look into what the "Pioneering the Path - a Purpose 8:28 Experience" really felt and looked like for our retail leaders. These key excerpts from the day's sessions give a rare insight into an even deeper level of this immersive retail leadership development day and into Broad River's culture. Tune in today to hear Bradley Sullivan's discuss how to enroll your team, get their full support and share in the common vision with Vision, Purpose, and Ownership (VPO). Will Luke will share four key time management tips to keep your team running like clockwork. Steve Ramjit's M.A.G.N.E.T. strategy will help you understand how to attract the very best people, and Gabby Cobos will give insight into how to coach them, consistently. Finally, Chris Wright will weigh in with some trade secrets, a secret sauce to success in a showroom. Each of our presenters gave their talk three times, to various audiences of small groups of their peers, and they also played a role as active audience members for each other's presentations. (See if you can recognize their jereseys!) This episode truly highlights the spirit of our Memory Makers. With an "Iron sharpens iron" mindset, they strive to learn from and to teach one another, reinforcing that true leadership is about empowering everyone to own the vision and actively shape both their own and Broad River's legacy. Watch this episode on youtube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Culture You Can Feel: Inside the Purpose 8:28 Experience
10/28/2025
Culture You Can Feel: Inside the Purpose 8:28 Experience
In this episode of Stories from the River, we sit down with three inspiring Broad River Retail General Managers at the end of an impactful day from the Fort Mill, SC, campus where Broad River held its "Pioneering the Path - a Purpose 8:28 Experience" full learning and development day for all of its retail leaders on August 28, 2025. We sit down with Sonya De La Cruz of Hickory; Brett Cary of Asheville; and Seth Logue of Gastonia to explore what makes the company’s culture so unique and impactful. Through their personal stories and leadership experiences, they reveal how Broad River’s servant-minded leadership approach and people-first values have shaped their careers and their teams. The conversation highlights the power of choosing positivity and leading with purpose, while also emphasizing how vision, planning, and intentional action help drive success. Each retail leader shares how Broad River’s senior leadership sets the tone by genuinely investing in every Memory Maker, knowing them by name, supporting their growth, and practicing the culture rather than simply talking about it. Their insights reinforce that success at Broad River is not solely measured by numbers or KPIs, but by elevating people, fostering belief, and building meaningful relationships. This episode is a reminder that the culture at Broad River Retail is alive in daily actions, not slogans on a wall. It paints a vivid picture of a company that dreams boldly, plans thoughtfully, moves with purpose, and grows together as one team. For anyone who values personal development, servant leadership, and the joy of helping others win, this is an inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss. Watch the video on YouTube: Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Empowerment, Ownership, and Collaboration: Kristen Hadeed’s Framework for Modern Leaders
10/23/2025
Empowerment, Ownership, and Collaboration: Kristen Hadeed’s Framework for Modern Leaders
Welcome to part two of our conversation with Kristen Hadeed on Stories from the River. Host Charlie Malouf continues his conversation with Kristen Hadeed, author of Permission to Screw Up, diving into resilience, ownership, and courageous leadership. Kristen shares why it’s okay to have a short “pity party” after setbacks—but emphasizes the importance of moving forward and learning from mistakes. She introduces practical tools like the “resilience resume,” where human-centered leaders reflect on lessons learned from their own screw-ups in weekly meetings, creating a safe space for experimentation, growth, and risk-taking. The conversation explores how leaders can foster ownership and identity capital while helping team members find their “sweet spot” at work. Kristen highlights the value of embracing both rock star (deep specialist) and superstar (fast-growth, versatile) mindsets as careers evolve. She also explains the “1:3:1” method for collaborative problem-solving, where individuals present a challenge, three potential solutions, and their preferred option—boosting both idea quality and personal accountability. Kristen underscores the power of courageous conversations and shares her 24-hour rule for addressing tough issues, all designed to build trust, authenticity, and stronger teams. She closes with an invitation to her Human Leadership Program, a pay-what-you-can initiative that helps leaders grow through intentionality, self-compassion, and creating lasting impact. Additional Resources: Kristen's Leadership Development Company Website - The Human Leadership Program by Kristen Hadeed - Permission to Screw Up by Kristen Hadeed - Chief Joy Officer: How Great Leaders Elevate Human Energy and Eliminate Fear by Richard Sheridan - The Defining Decade by Meg Jay - Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott - What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith - Everybody Matters by Bob Chapman & Raj Sisodia - Watch the video on YouTube: Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Reflecting on Pioneering the Path Opening Keynote w/ Kristen Hadeed, pt 1
10/21/2025
Reflecting on Pioneering the Path Opening Keynote w/ Kristen Hadeed, pt 1
In this episode of Stories from the River, host and CEO Charlie Malouf welcomes keynote speaker and author Kristen Hadeed, fresh off her impactful talk at Broad River Retail’s “Pioneering the Path - a Purpose 8:28 Experience” leadership event. Kristen opens up about her unexpected journey—accidentally launching the cleaning company Student Maid at just 19, navigating major failures, and discovering her passion for human-centered leadership. What began as a student side-hustle quickly became a laboratory for learning, where she uncovered how trust, communication, and belief in people can transform a culture. Kristen reveals the pivotal conversation with her friend and colleague Monique that ultimately shifted her company’s purpose, evolving from her cleaning company Student Maid to a leadership development organization. Her story sets the stage for a larger message: leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about courage, connection, and owning our impact. Charlie and Kristen also discuss how she prepares her keynotes, customizing every presentation to the culture and needs of her audience rather than delivering a pre-packaged speech. Together, they unpack themes from her session, including the power of a “resilience résumé,” confronting imposter syndrome, and recognizing fear as a signal that something truly meaningful is on the line. Kristen’s vulnerability, humor, and practical wisdom invite Memory Makers to lead with heart, take ownership, and collaborate boldly with courageous conversations. From her first interactions with Broad River, Kristen says she immediately felt the authenticity and electricity of the culture. Part 1 captures that energy—an inspiring conversation about growth, intentional leadership, and the courage to build environments where people can thrive. Come back for part two of this conversation on Thursday! Additional Resources: Kristen's Leadership Development Company Website - Permission to Screw Up by Kristen Hadeed - The Human Leadership Program by Kristen Hadeed - Kristen's Original 2012 TED Talk with over 3.3M Views: How to Retire by 20 - Kristen Hadeed and Millennials on the Truly Human Leadership podcast: Kristen Hadeed and Millennials on the Truly Human Leadership on Apple Podcasts: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield - The Imposter Phenomenon by Dr. Pauline Rose Clance - Silence the Imposter by Gary Frey - Combining Ministry and Football: The Unique Path of Pittsburgh Steelers Chaplain Kent Chevalier - Arthur Brooks - The Power of Teaching, The Arrival Fallacy, The Mad Scientist Profile, Lifting Heavy Weights, & The Two Best Practices To Be Happy - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Behind the Scenes: Columbia's Remodel & Transformation w/ Visual MVP Emily Boyle
10/16/2025
Behind the Scenes: Columbia's Remodel & Transformation w/ Visual MVP Emily Boyle
Welcome back to Stories from the River! Host and CEO Charlie Malouf is on location in Columbia, South Carolina, celebrating the Grand Reopening and ribbon-cutting of the Columbia, SC Ashley Store on Harbison Blvd. Charlie sits down with Emily Boyle, Senior Visual Impact Manager, who oversees the visual presentation for three stores in the Midlands area. Emily reflects on her nearly four-year journey with Broad River Retail, sharing her excitement for collaborating with a dedicated group of Memory Makers during a major store remodel—the first of its scale for her. She details the extensive planning and teamwork that went into successfully managing the construction, highlighting the importance of constant communication among various departments, contractors, and retail leadership to keep the project running smoothly, despite the inevitable disruptions. Emily takes great pride in the store’s transformation, noting its elevated status as one of the highest-rated locations for visual impact, thanks to the relentless effort of all the Memory Makers involved. She discusses the satisfaction of receiving both positive customer feedback and impressive results in sales numbers, attributing the success to the collaborative spirit within Broad River Retail. Emily also shares her personal inspiration from brands like Restoration Hardware and Ballard Designs and talks about her educational background in interior decorating. The episode closes with excitement about upcoming initiatives, such as the Ashley Luxe program, and Emily’s unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, culture, and bringing creative energy to the Columbia store—a true flagship for Broad River Retail.Watch the other three episodes in this series: Bloodline's Rebirth: Troy Walker on Transforming Columbia and Leading with Purpose - Inside Columbia’s Store Remodel: Teamwork, Transformation, and Retail Innovation - Don't Give Up Before the Miracle Happens: The Power of Connection w/ the Bloodline's Lance Cline - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Don't Give Up Before the Miracle Happens: The Power of Connection w/ the Bloodline's Lance Cline
10/14/2025
Don't Give Up Before the Miracle Happens: The Power of Connection w/ the Bloodline's Lance Cline
In this episode of Stories from the River, host and CEO, Charlie Malouf, continues the interviews from the Grand Reopening of the Columbia Bloodline store, which has undergone a major transformation into a stunning 7.0 Ashley prototype. Today, we hear from Lance Cline, Home Furnishings Expert, a committed Memory Maker with four years of service and success at Broad River Retail. Lance shares his excitement about the store’s new look—especially the expanded Sleep Gallery—and reflects on how his personal journey and focus on serving others has shaped both his life and success at work. He discusses shifting from a “top performer” mentality to one of service and connection, explaining that helping others is key to keeping what he’s gained, not only materially but mentally and spiritually. The conversation delves deeper into Lance’s story, from overcoming addiction to celebrating seven years of sobriety and dedicating himself to supporting his community, especially those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction. He emphasizes the importance of connection—the core of his philosophy—and credits other Memory Makers for the store’s success, highlighting that retail truly is a team sport. Lance’s leadership and passion were recognized through the “Power of Connection” award at the January 2025 Annual Awards Gala, but he insists he prefers to work behind the scenes, driving big dreams for the store and his colleagues. The episode closes with Lance encouraging all Memory Makers facing challenges to “not give up before the miracle happens” and to focus on having fun, selling furniture, and helping others. Watch the other episodes in this series: Bloodline's Rebirth: Troy Walker on Transforming Columbia and Leading with Purpose - Inside Columbia’s Store Remodel: Teamwork, Transformation, and Retail Innovation - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Inside Columbia’s Store Remodel: Teamwork, Transformation, and Retail Innovation
10/09/2025
Inside Columbia’s Store Remodel: Teamwork, Transformation, and Retail Innovation
In this special Stories from the River episode, host Charlie Malouf sits down with Cameron Piersanti, Senior Manager in Merchandising, following the Grand Reopening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of Broad River Retail’s Columbia, South Carolina, location. Cameron shares insights on the extensive remodel process, highlighting teamwork, strategic planning, and the challenges of transforming the store while staying open for business. They discuss the evolution from a dated layout—including a fountain and kids’ area—to a contemporary Ashley 7.0 format, with a dramatically expanded sleep shop and a “two-in-one” concept that blends outlet and showroom offerings. Cameron details the logistics behind successful remodels, the importance of optimizing space, and the rising popularity of key product lines and programs. The episode wraps up with reflections on the camaraderie and motivation these grand reopenings inspire, showcasing Broad River’s commitment to excellence and adaptability in retail. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn: .
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Bloodline's Rebirth: Troy Walker on Transforming Columbia and Leading with Purpose
10/07/2025
Bloodline's Rebirth: Troy Walker on Transforming Columbia and Leading with Purpose
In this episode of Stories from the River, host and CEO Charlie Malouf sits down with Troy Walker, the General Manager of the newly renovated Columbia Bloodline location for Broad River Retail. The conversation marks the Grand Reopening of this legacy store, which had been in operation in its original form for nearly two decades. Troy reflects on the transformation of the store, sharing details about its outdated appearance prior to the remodel—complete with old carpet, playground equipment, and a dated fountain. The episode dives deep into Troy’s journey, from joining Broad River as a co-GM in Augusta to being convinced, somewhat reluctantly, to accept the challenge of leading the Columbia store. He describes the atmosphere he inherited: a slow, low-energy environment jokingly referring to it as a “funeral home.” Together, with his fellow Memory Makers, especially Sales Manager Lance Cline, they began to reshape the culture, foster a strong sense of family, and ultimately form what they proudly call the “Bloodline.” The remodel marked a pivotal new chapter, bringing modern design and fresh energy into the space. Troy discusses how the changes, such as the new sleep gallery and polished floors, have greatly improved both the guest and Memory Maker experience. The process was challenging, with months of dust, noise, and mental strain, but ultimately resulted in a beautiful, revitalized showroom. Throughout the episode, Troy emphasizes the importance of culture, camaraderie, and shared success—highlighting how Memory Makers compete but also support one another so everyone can thrive. With big dreams ahead, including aspirations to become the store of the year, Troy and his Bloodline Memory Makers are focused on driving performance, providing meaningful experiences, and becoming a flagship for both Broad River and the wider community. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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The Power of People: Broad River’s Secret Sauce and the Home Furnishings Experts Program
10/02/2025
The Power of People: Broad River’s Secret Sauce and the Home Furnishings Experts Program
In this fourth and final episode of the Stories from the River series on Broad River Retail’s 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée, host and CEO Charlie Malouf and EVP of Retail Performance Stacey McCormick reflect on the significance of this special celebration honoring Broad River’s Memory Makers. The soirée is a cherished tradition that recognizes and celebrates Home Furnishings Experts—spotlighting the dedication, discipline, and humility it takes to achieve this distinguished status. Charlie highlights how these top Memory Makers not only excel at their craft but also mentor and uplift others, embodying the company’s values and fueling its continued growth. Gratitude also extends to valued partners like Synchrony, whose support helps make these accomplishments and celebrations possible. Stacey brings heartfelt appreciation, recognizing not only the experts but also the supporting teams and loved ones who stand beside them. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, trust, and genuine care within Broad River, celebrating both first-time experts and those who have earned this honor multiple times. With deep respect and admiration, he applauds their passion, resilience, and impact. This episode captures the closing moments of the soirée series, honoring the Memory Makers who drive Broad River’s success and make life’s best memories possible for their guests. Watch the previous three episodes from this series: Fresh Takes From the 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée - Retail Experts: Generating Performance, Rewarding Excellence, and Driving Culture - A Toast to Dedication, Teamwork, and Home Furnishings Experts -
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A Toast to Dedication, Teamwork, and Home Furnishings Experts
09/30/2025
A Toast to Dedication, Teamwork, and Home Furnishings Experts
In this third episode from Broad River Retail’s 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée, host and CEO Charlie Malouf shares a special recap of the evening’s inspiring speeches. The soirée featured remarks from Heather Greenwood, Director of People; and in this episode, listeners will hear highlights from Manny Rodrigues, President & COO, and Amy Kneeland, GM & SVP at Synchrony. Together, they celebrated and honored Broad River’s exceptional Memory Makers. The event underscored the values of hard work, consistency, and pioneering spirit. Manny emphasized that true expertise is earned through disciplined habits, persistent effort, and a commitment to leading the industry forward. Amy echoed the theme of partnership, applauding the Memory Makers for their dedication and passion, which continue to set a high standard across the home furnishings space. This episode captures the gratitude, recognition, and celebratory energy of the soirée—raising a well-deserved toast to every Memory Maker for their remarkable achievements and lasting contributions. Watch parts one and two: Fresh Takes From the 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée - Retail Experts: Generating Performance, Rewarding Excellence, and Driving Culture - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Retail Experts: Generating Performance, Rewarding Excellence, and Driving Culture
09/25/2025
Retail Experts: Generating Performance, Rewarding Excellence, and Driving Culture
In the second episode featuring Broad River Retail's 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée, host and CEO Charlie Malouf, President and COO Manny Rodrigues, and EVP of Retail Performance Stacy McCormick celebrate the exceptional achievements of Broad River Retail's elite Retail Performance Memory Makers. They delve into what makes the Home Furnishings Expert program so unique and challenging, emphasizing that achieving expert status requires much more than being a Million Dollar Writer — Experts must excel across multiple areas, consistently demonstrate outstanding habits, and set an industry standard for excellence. The group reflects on the journey to Expert status, revealing that only one in three Million Dollar Writers earn the Expert designation due to the program's rigorous standards and holistic approach to measuring success. The trio share insights about the culture at Broad River Retail, where recognition, career pathing, and genuine appreciation are cornerstones. The leaders describe the soirée itself, a glamorous night at STK Steakhouse, as a symbol of the company’s gratitude where the Experts and their plus ones are joined by the leaders of the Company as well as premier partners who do business with Broad River Retail. They discuss how the distinctive Experts program offers elite perks such as designated parking, elevated compensation, elevated PTO, greater autonomy, and meaningful recognition. Throughout this episode, they highlight how fostering a positive and growth-oriented environment inspires Memory Makers to aim higher and creates a sense of belonging, pride, and motivation to continue setting new benchmarks. The soirée is not just a reward, but also an opportunity for these Experts and their loved ones to experience firsthand the deep respect and gratitude the company holds for their dedication and achievement of mastery in their profession. Watch the first episode in this series: Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Fresh Takes From the 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée
09/23/2025
Fresh Takes From the 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée
In this episode of Stories from the River, host and CEO Charlie Malouf launches a new series featuring Broad River Retail's 4th Annual Home Furnishings Expert Soirée by spotlighting three standout Experts: Kent Williams from The Mariners in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Ebony Harrison and Mike Cohen from the Cary Crushers. These three Experts share their journeys to achieving the prestigious Home Furnishings Expert (HFE) status—discussing the perks that come with it, including elevated PTO, priority parking, financial rewards, greater autonomy in their business, and recognition and distinction. More importantly, they open up about what fuels their drive: daily dedication, personal pride, and a commitment to growth while creating meaningful memories for guests. The conversation also explores the most rewarding parts of their work at Broad River Retail. From helping relocating families find comfort to fostering connections through community outreach, each Memory Maker reflects on moments that left a lasting impact. Filled with gratitude, this episode highlights the recognition, camaraderie, and family-like culture that make Broad River Retail such a unique place to grow. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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From Comfort Zone to Courage: Bradley Rapier's Engaging Groove Theory @ GLS 25
09/18/2025
From Comfort Zone to Courage: Bradley Rapier's Engaging Groove Theory @ GLS 25
It’s the 9th and final episode in the 2025 Global Leadership Summit Recap Series on Stories from the River! This week, Katrina Batchelor, Associate Manager of Retail Operations for the South and West Regions, and Meagan Guzman, Associate Director of People Operations, reflect on Bradley Rapier’s dynamic session at the Summit. Bradley Rapier—renowned choreographer, Emmy winner, and founder of the Groovaloos—brought incredible energy and inspiration through his “Groove Theory” and the concept of stepping into the circle. This powerful metaphor challenges leaders to embrace courage, vulnerability, and the boldness to use their voices. Katrina and Meagan share how Bradley’s message personally resonated with them, sparking insights about stepping out of comfort zones, embracing mistakes as part of growth, and encouraging bravery within the Broad River Retail community. The conversation highlights: - Why courage and vulnerability are essential for leadership growth - How creating a supportive environment empowers Memory Makers to collaborate and share ideas - The importance of “mining for the gold” within each individual - Practical ways to overcome self-doubt and lead authentically This episode is a reminder that leadership is a continual journey—one where every Memory Maker has the opportunity to step into the circle, grow in confidence, and inspire others to do the same. Additional Resources: Bradley Rapier - Connect with Bradley Rapier - Bradley Rapier on Instagram - The Groovaloos - The Groovaloos on Instagram - Watch the other episodes in the GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25 - Less Really Is More: Takeaways from Juliet Funt’s Tactics to Cut Clutter at GLS25 - Leadership Lessons from Nick Saban: Process, Discipline, and Transformation at the Global Leadership Summit - How Regenerative Performance Can Transform Work: Insights from Dr. James Hewitt’s GLS Talk - How to Leave a Legacy that Matters: Reflections from John Maxwell's GLS Talk - Fighting Drift and Finding Purpose: Reflections on Christine Caine's Powerful Message at GLS 25 - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Fighting Drift and Finding Purpose: Reflections on Christine Caine's Powerful Message at GLS 25
09/16/2025
Fighting Drift and Finding Purpose: Reflections on Christine Caine's Powerful Message at GLS 25
Welcome to the eighth episode of the 2025 Global Leadership Summit Recap Series on Stories from the River! This week, CEO Charlie Malouf is joined by Carl Hillesland, Director of Retail Performance at Broad River Retail, to reflect on Christine Caine’s powerful session at the Summit. Christine Caine—author, speaker, and founder of the A21 anti-human trafficking campaign—shared her personal journey of discovering her life’s purpose and the critical turning point that led her to confront the realities of human trafficking. In her talk, she warned leaders about the danger of drift—the subtle but steady loss of vision and purpose that happens when we simply do nothing. Charlie and Carl explore how Christine’s stories, like discovering she was adopted and later encountering the vast scope of human trafficking, illustrate the need to stay anchored to a clear why. They unpack her vivid analogy of two beach umbrellas representing boundaries that prevent us from drifting and discuss how Memory Makers can apply these ideas in their own work and lives. The conversation highlights: - How to recognize and combat “drift” in leadership and life - The importance of boundaries, vision, and purpose to stay aligned - Practical ways Memory Makers are already using Christine’s message to realign with their mission - Why leaders must intentionally Re-Anchor, Rebuild, and Reignite their passion to avoid languishing or losing focus This episode is a call to action for Memory Makers to be intentional lighthouses—staying grounded, shining with purpose, and helping others navigate life’s currents toward meaningful impact. Watch the other episodes in the GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25 - Less Really Is More: Takeaways from Juliet Funt’s Tactics to Cut Clutter at GLS25 - Leadership Lessons from Nick Saban: Process, Discipline, and Transformation at the Global Leadership Summit - How Regenerative Performance Can Transform Work: Insights from Dr. James Hewitt’s GLS Talk - How to Leave a Legacy that Matters: Reflections from John Maxwell's GLS Talk - Additional resources: Books by Christine Caine - ? The Vision Driven Leader by Michael Hyatt - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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How to Leave a Legacy that Matters: Reflections from John Maxwell's GLS Talk
09/11/2025
How to Leave a Legacy that Matters: Reflections from John Maxwell's GLS Talk
It's the seventh episode of the 2025 Global Leadership Summit Recap Series on Stories from the River, and CEO Charlie Malouf is joined again by Will Luke, Senior Director of Project Management, to dive into John C. Maxwell's session at the Summit. They reflect on Maxwell’s legacy in leadership, his lifelong dedication to developing others, and the personal stories and frameworks that have shaped his teachings. John was presented with the Lifetime Leadership Legacy Award by Craig Groeschel at the Global Leadership Summit, and Craig referred to John Maxwell as the single greatest teacher and model of servant leadership in our lifetime. After their conversation, John taught on legacy and leadership. The conversation highlights Maxwell’s influence not only on the world stage—including his founding of the nonprofit EQUIP to do transformative work with countries and then the nonprofit iLead to do transformational work with schools globally—but also within the Broad River Retail community, where his principles have become part of the company culture. Charlie and Will unpack Maxwell’s three-part framework for leaving a legacy: - the Compass (having a destiny to fulfill) - the Clock (making meaningful contributions in the present) - and Companions (developing others to carry the impact forward). They share takeaways about the importance of intentionality in legacy-building, the wisdom of thinking long term, and how true significance comes from what you leave in people rather than just what you leave for them. Personal anecdotes about their own families and the practice of distilling their lives into a single meaningful sentence reinforce the episode’s inspiring, relatable message: every Memory Maker has the chance to make a lasting difference by investing in others and living authentically. Additional resources: John Maxwell's Nonprofit EQUIP - Maxwell Leadership Development Company - Maxwell Leadership Certified Team - iLead - Maxwell Leadership Foundation - 29 Leadership & Life Lessons from My Father (part 1) by John Maxwell - 29 Leadership & Life Lessons from My Father (part 2) by John Maxwell - The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell - Leadership Not by the Book by David Green - The Leadership Challenge by James Kouzes and Barry Posner - High Road Leadership by John C. Maxwell - Today Matters by John C. Maxwell - Maxwell Leadership Bible - Maxwell Leadership Bible (Leather Bound) - The Maxwell Daily Reader - Watch the other episodes in the GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25 - Less Really Is More: Takeaways from Juliet Funt’s Tactics to Cut Clutter at GLS25 - Leadership Lessons from Nick Saban: Process, Discipline, and Transformation at the Global Leadership Summit - How Regenerative Performance Can Transform Work: Insights from Dr. James Hewitt’s GLS Talk - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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How Regenerative Performance Can Transform Work: Insights from Dr. James Hewitt’s GLS Talk
09/09/2025
How Regenerative Performance Can Transform Work: Insights from Dr. James Hewitt’s GLS Talk
In this sixth episode of the 2025 Global Leadership Summit Recap Series on Stories from the River, CEO Charlie Malouf is joined by Will Luke, Senior Director of Project Management, to recap insights from Dr. James Hewitt's Global Leadership Summit keynote on regenerative performance. Dr. Hewitt, a former world-class cyclist turned human performance scientist, shared his journey from relentless “go, go, go” living to understanding the necessity of pausing and reflecting, especially after surviving cancer. The discussion introduces the concept of “cognitive gears,” a metaphor for the varying levels of mental focus and energy: low (rest and simple tasks), middle (emails and meetings), and high (deep, priority-driven work). Most workers get caught in the “middle gear” — a cycle of distractions and meetings — which can lead to burnout and inefficiency. Charlie and Will explore Dr. Hewitt’s practical strategies, like batching emails, rethinking meeting culture, leveraging AI for smarter workflows, and recognizing the value of rest and breaks, not just as luxuries, but as critical tools for sustainability and peak performance. They emphasize aligning work with one’s natural circadian rhythms and highlight the power of quality sleep and strategic downtime for creativity and long-term effectiveness. The episode closes with a call for leaders to model regenerative practices, acknowledging that when Memory Makers are encouraged to replenish their mental and physical capacity, it has a ripple effect throughout the organization, boosting both wellbeing and performance. Additional resources: Dr. James Hewitt (Human Performance Scientist) - Regenerative Performance by Dr. James Hewitt - When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel Pink - Win the Day by Mark Batterson - The Art of Impossible by Steven Kotler - Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker - The Story of Purpose by Joey Reiman - The Road Less Stupid by Keith Cunningham - Thrive Global (founded by Arianna Huffington) - Huberman Lab by Dr. Andrew Huberman - Watch the other episodes in the GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25 - Less Really Is More: Takeaways from Juliet Funt’s Tactics to Cut Clutter at GLS25 - Leadership Lessons from Nick Saban: Process, Discipline, and Transformation at the Global Leadership Summit - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Leadership Lessons from Nick Saban: Process, Discipline, and Transformation at the Global Leadership Summit
09/04/2025
Leadership Lessons from Nick Saban: Process, Discipline, and Transformation at the Global Leadership Summit
The 2025 Global Leadership Summit Recap Series continues today on Stories from the River! CEO Charlie Malouf welcomes back guest Kellie Jones, Senior Manager, Retail Operations. The two deep dive into Nick Saban's interview with Paula Faris at the Global Leadership Summit. The episode kicks off with enthusiastic reflections on Broad River’s recent Experts Soirée at STK Steakhouse and the Grand Reopening of the Columbia store, highlighting the importance of community, transformation, and celebrating success with fellow Memory Makers. They also discuss the recent "Pioneering the Path - a Purpose 8:28 Experience" event, sharing excitement over keynote speakers such as Jon Acuff and Kristen Hadeed, and the motivational trading cards featuring company experts. The heart of the episode centers on Nick Saban’s leadership insights, with Kellie expressing how, despite not being a college football enthusiast, she resonated deeply with his principles on leadership, routine, adaptability, and self-assessment. They explore Saban’s philosophy of transformational leadership, the necessity of focusing on the process rather than just results, and the value of developing both individual and collective visions within organizations. Key themes include the importance of discipline, continuous self-assessment, guarding against complacency, and fostering a mindset of positivity and perseverance—parallels Kellie draws to her own journey and to the growth mindset encouraged among Memory Makers at Broad River Retail. The episode closes on a note of inspiration, with resounding takeaways on legacy, purpose, and being a positive force both within the company and the wider community. Watch the other episodes in the GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25 - Less Really Is More: Takeaways from Juliet Funt’s Tactics to Cut Clutter at GLS25 - Additional resources: Your Story: A Tribute to Coach Saban (Video) - "The Road Less Travelled" book by M. Scott Peck - "How Good Do You Want To Be?: A Champion's Tips on How to Lead and Succeed at Work and in Life" (Book by Nick Saban) - Nick's Kids Foundation - Saban Center - The Leadership Secrets of Nick Saban: How Alabama's Coach Became the Greatest Ever - "Permission to Screw Up" book by Kristen Hadeed - Kristen Hadeed website - "All It Takes Is a Goal" book by Jon Acuff - "Soundtracks" book by Jon Acuff - Soundtracks: The Conversations Card Deck - Jon Acuff website - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Less Really Is More: Takeaways from Juliet Funt’s Tactics to Cut Clutter at GLS25
09/02/2025
Less Really Is More: Takeaways from Juliet Funt’s Tactics to Cut Clutter at GLS25
Welcome to the fourth episode of the 2025 Global Leadership Summit Recap Series on Stories from the River. Host Carl Hillesland, Director, Retail Performance, and guest Kellie Jones, Senior Manager, Retail Operations, dive into insights from Juliet Funt’s talk on Leadership Precision and against gluttony at the Global Leadership Summit. The discussion centers around the dangers of leaders overloading themselves, likening the approach to a buffet where piling on more projects and initiatives gives the illusion of progress but ultimately spreads everyone too thin. Drawing from Funt’s analogy of the "peanut butter spread too thin tears the bread," Carl and Kellie explore why leaders feel compelled to keep adding priorities, the impact this has on organizational effectiveness, and the challenge of letting go of good—but not necessarily great—ideas. The conversation moves to the alternative: adopting a reductive mindset that focuses on prioritization, improvement, and most importantly, reduction—stripping away nonessential work to sharpen focus and increase productivity. They share practical tools from Funt’s talk, like the "Spin Launcher," a five-step process for cutting clutter and making space for what really matters. Both Carl and Kellie reflect on real-world examples within Broad River Retail, emphasizing how shrinking the pile of work gives Memory Makers more lift and allows for higher-value contributions. The episode wraps with concrete suggestions for Memory Makers and leaders alike to bring more efficiency, focus, and freedom into their daily work by learning the value of saying no and making strategic cuts. Watch the other episodes in the GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25 - Additional Resources: Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast with Juliet Funt ("Fortune 500 Advisor on Why This One Minute Will Change Your Workday") - Juliet Funt's website: "A Minute to Think" book by Juliet Funt - Watch the first two episodes in our GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Additional resources: Success Is in Your Reach by Jada Grandy-Mock - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25
08/28/2025
Live Life Like a Diversified Portfolio & More Insights from Thasunda Brown Duckett @ GLS25
It's the third episode of the 2025 Gobal Leadership Summit Recap Series on Stories from the River! In today's episode, CEO Charlie Malouf welcomes Meagan Guzman, the newly hired Associate Director of People Operations. Just two months into her journey at Broad River Retail, Meagan reflects on her cross-country move from San Diego, her early experiences at the company, and the energizing environment of the Global Leadership Summit. This conversation highlights the value of attending the Summit with fellow leaders from Broad River and other community members, emphasizing the power of collective learning and networking, including a memorable instance of connecting with a potential future Memory Maker. The heart of the episode centers on insights from the keynote by Thasunda Brown Duckett, CEO of TIAA. Charlie and Meagan delve into Duckett’s inspiring rise from humble beginnings as a "first generation integration" leader to overseeing $1.6 trillion in assets. They discuss her powerful lessons about consistent excellence, gratitude for those behind the scenes, and her refreshingly honest take on work-life balance as a "diversified portfolio," where giving oneself grace is essential. Meagan relates personally to Duckett’s advice, especially when navigating tough personal moments as a new leader. The episode also celebrates Duckett’s mentorship style—her use of "coffee and tea" conversations to break down barriers, gather feedback from diverse groups, and uplift the next generation of leaders. Watch the first two episodes in our GLS 25 Recap series: Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit - Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Additional resources: Success Is in Your Reach by Jada Grandy-Mock - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit
08/26/2025
Unlocking Potential and Conquering Goals: Takeaways from Jon Acuff's Closing Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit
In this second episode of the 2025 Global Leadership Summit (GLS) Recap Series on Stories from the River, host Charlie Malouf welcomes Steve Ramjit, the Regional Manager of Broad River Retail’s North Region. Steve, who oversees seven stores and has been with Broad River since October 2024, shares his impressions of attending his first GLS, describing it as an incredible, life-changing experience. The conversation not only highlights Steve’s journey from Florida to the Carolinas and his background with other furniture retailers, but also touches on the significance of August milestones for Broad River Retail and the excitement around hosting Jon Acuff as a keynote at their upcoming Pioneering the Path - a Purpose 8:28 Experience. Much of the episode centers around Jon Acuff’s practical frameworks for goal setting and overcoming procrastination, vital for the Memory Makers as they pursue the ambitious goal of $272 million in revenue for 2025. Steve and Charlie break down Acuff’s memorable strategies, such as the "Dream-Plan-Do-Review" model, the importance of positive soundtracks, and the necessity to confront self-doubt. Insights on leadership, the psychology behind reaching one's potential, and the need for intentional positivity—backed by data—are emphasized as essential tools for Memory Makers to unlock greater productivity and fulfillment. The conversation ends with encouragement to lead with purpose, stop procrastinating, and give one’s best both at work and at home, reinforcing the company’s commitment to growth and empowerment. Additional resources: Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking by Jon Acuff - All It Takes Is a Goal: The 3-Step Plan to Ditch Regret and Tap Into Your Massive Potential by Jon Acuff - Procrastination Proof: Never Get Stuck Again by Jon Acuff (Available April 14, 2026) - Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Keynote at the Global Leadership Summit - Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit
08/21/2025
Consistency Over Charisma: Takeaways from Craig Groeschel's Opening Keynote at the 2025 Global Leadership Summit
Welcome to a brand new series from Stories from the River featuring the 2025 Global Leadership Summit. 19 Memory Makers attended the Global Leadership Summit on August 7th and 8th from the local host site at The Park Expo and Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, where there was a big screen for all of the Memory Makers along with all attendees to virtually watch all of the speakers and videos from GLS 25. This GLS 25 recap series will highlight the experiences and takeaways from one speaker at a time. CEO Charlie Malouf introduces the series and sets the stage by expressing the importance of not just absorbing powerful leadership talks but deeply internalizing them and discussing how their messages can lead to real application in the company. The episode kicks off with a recap of the opening keynote message from Craig Groeschel, who emphasized that "great leadership is boring"—underscoring that consistency, faithfulness powered by keystone habits exercised over a long period of time are the key to lasting impact. This episode features return guests Carl Hillesland, Director of Retail Performance, and Mark Deulley, Manager of Retail Data, Strategy, and Platforms, who dive deeper into Groeschel's message by discussing how consistent, small actions and faithfulness over time are the true drivers of meaningful leadership and personal growth. They reflect on the idea that Memory Makers don’t need to be flashy or possess exceptional charisma; rather, becoming a great leader is about finding and sticking to those keystone habits that spark positive change across all areas of life. Carl and Mark share personal insights on scheduling true priorities, the practical power of persistence, and how embracing the "boring" can actually bring balance, peace, and significant long-term results for both Memory Makers and the people they serve. The episode wraps up with encouragement to stay faithful, keep growing, and bring the heat every day—reminding listeners that the results everyone admires are built on the quiet, unseen disciplines their Memory Makers practice consistently. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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New Store Alert: Announcing Broad River Retail's Expansion into Easley, South Carolina
08/19/2025
New Store Alert: Announcing Broad River Retail's Expansion into Easley, South Carolina
Welcome back to Stories from the River! Broad River Retail's CEO and podcast host Charlie Malouf sits down with President and COO Manny Rodrigues to share a mix of personal updates and major company news. They kick off with some lighthearted banter about summer vacations, soccer coaching, and family milestones before diving into the exciting announcement.... of a new Ashley store opening in Easley, South Carolina! The new Easley location will be Broad River's 5th overall store in the Upstate of South Carolina, joining Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, and Greenwood. And, the new Easley location will follow in the footsteps of Spartanburg, Anderson, and (soon-to-be-following-its-remodel) Greenville as another two-in-one, dual concept store as an Ashley Store & Outlet. Similar to Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson, which are all over 40,000 sq. ft., it will be one of Broad River's larger locations at 41,479 sq. ft. The new Easley location will be serviced by Broad River's Spartanburg Distribution Center, which not only serves the Upstate of South Carolina but also Broad River's two locations in western North Carolina (Arden & Asheville). The new store is expected to open as soon as this December or early 2026. The conversation highlights the journey and strategy behind Broad River's growth, emphasizing how crucial it is to take a long-term, disciplined approach. They also reflect on the evolution of their presence in the Upstate region, touching on renovations, successful market entries, and the collaborative efforts between partners, landlords, and their Memory Makers. The heart of the episode revolves around the upcoming Easley location—which will mark Broad River Retail's 35th store and further strengthen their footprint in South Carolina. Charlie and Manny express their enthusiasm about entering this vibrant, growing community with a freshly designed 7.0 Ashley Store & Outlet featuring a broad product mix, including the Ashley Luxe line and a best-in-class Sleep Shop. They underscore that such growth is only possible because of the dedication and excellence of their Memory Makers. As the company continues to expand—locally and even into Spokane, Washington—they invite listeners to be part of their journey, whether as a Memory Maker, customer, or partner, and encourage everyone to stay tuned for upcoming episodes, grand openings, and special events. Read about the announcement: Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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From Passion Project to 300 Episodes: The Journey of Stories from the River
08/14/2025
From Passion Project to 300 Episodes: The Journey of Stories from the River
In this special 300th episode of Stories from the River, host and CEO of Broad River Retail, Charlie Malouf, reflects on the podcast's journey from its humble beginnings as a passion project to its current success, marking over three and a half years and four seasons of storytelling. Charlie also credits the podcast's success to the collaborative efforts of guest hosts and contributors, and highlights the positive impact that Stories from the River has had both within Broad River and among potential future Memory Makers. Throughout the episode, Charlie celebrates the milestones and growth of both the podcast and the company, noting how Stories from the River has become a meaningful tool for connection and culture. He discusses recent and upcoming company events, new series about store remodels, leadership development, and the important role the podcast plays in elevating the stories of Memory Makers. Charlie finds the greatest joy in seeing Memory Makers light up when their experiences are shared, and he acknowledges the podcast’s unexpected benefits, including helping to attract new talent by showcasing the company’s culture. He wraps up with gratitude for listeners and supporters, expressing confidence in Broad River’s bright future and inviting everyone to continue following the journey as they strive to reach new heights together. Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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Building a Purpose-Driven Company & Surviving Crucible Moments: Broad River Retail w/ Charlie Malouf
08/12/2025
Building a Purpose-Driven Company & Surviving Crucible Moments: Broad River Retail w/ Charlie Malouf
In this episode of Stories from the River, host Charlie Malouf, recognized as one of Charlotte's most admired CEOs, is the one being interviewed! Jacotron Potts, Director of Community CARE at The Park Church in Charlotte, welcomes Charlie onstage on Day One of the Global Leadership Summit at the local host site, where they delve into the culture and leadership approach at Broad River Retail. Charlie shares insights about how Memory Makers are central to the organization's purpose of "Furnishing Life's Best Memories." He highlights initiatives like the Pioneer Promise from the recent GM Rx where the Retail Performance leaders made a commitment towards achieving the 2025 Pioneer goal, and discusses the importance of faith and resilient leadership, referencing pivotal moments from the company's history, including a challenging period in 2015 when faith became the foundation and cornerstone for overcoming obstacles. A significant focus of the conversation is The Lighthouse Fund, a crisis assistance program designed to offer confidential support to Memory Makers facing personal hardships. Charlie explains how the fund was inspired by a desire to institutionalize compassion through structured processes, drawing inspiration from other successful organizations. He emphasizes the importance of leading with purpose, mentoring others, and prioritizing personal growth for all Memory Makers—regardless of title. The episode is filled with heartfelt stories, leadership wisdom, and encouragement for anyone striving to make a lasting impact within their organization or community. Learn more about The Lighthouse Fund: Watch this episode on YouTube: Visit for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit Follow us on LinkedIn:
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