Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/JMWamVoY-FY

Charlie Malouf welcomes Bo Pennebaker, EVP, Licensee Operations of Ashley Global Retail, for a conversation rooted in shared history, industry experience, and a passion for retail.

In this episode of Stories from the River, Charlie and Bo reflect on their Mississippi roots, long-standing friendship, and the career paths that shaped Bo's journey—from manufacturer's rep to retail owner, and now to executive leadership within Ashley's global network. They discuss the evolution of his role following the sale of his business, including his work with DSG and his current focus on real estate, operations, and supporting Ashley's licensees.

The conversation also explores the launch of the Ashley Luxe Collection, the brand's largest introduction to date, aimed at engaging a younger, design-focused customer. They highlight the importance of storytelling, adaptability in a shifting retail landscape, and the role of culture in driving performance.

Books mentioned:
How to Get a Return on Failure by John C. Maxwell - https://www.amazon.com/How-Get-Return-Failure-Smarter-Return/dp/B0GR1JCLVD/

Procrastination Proof by Jon Acuff - https://www.amazon.com/Procrastination-Proof-Never-Stuck-Again/dp/154090380X

Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara - https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573

Podcasts mentioned:
The Learning Leader Show with Ryan Hawk - The Only Thing That Separates Great from Everyone Else | Will Guidara - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqIJZlJC6tU

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/QcUzT0pDetY

In this spotlight from episode 355, Charlie Malouf and Manny Rodrigues highlight the company's ambitious growth across multiple regions while reinforcing their core focus on people, process, and purpose. They discuss recent expansions, including grand openings for Project Cascade in Spokane and Moscow, and a forthcoming location in South Portland, Maine under Project Acadia.

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/QcUzT0pDetY

In this spotlight from episode 355, Charlie Malouf and Manny Rodrigues discuss the exciting developments surrounding a new Ashley store location in Statesville. The space will become a 7.0 Ashley showroom, reflecting the company's latest design and renovation standards. Charlie highlights the store's connection to Charlotte, emphasizing ongoing growth and recent upgrades in Mooresville, Hickory, and Salisbury—all now 7.0 stores.

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QcUzT0pDetY

Growth, intentional investment, and a people-first mindset continue to fuel Broad River's expansion.

In this episode of Stories from the River, Charlie Malouf and Manny Rodrigues share the news of Broad River Retail's expansion into Statesville, North Carolina with a new Ashley Store. They explore the importance of this market, highlighting its strategic location at the intersection of I-77 and I-40. They also discuss its connection to the Greater Charlotte area, as well as the thoughtful approach behind entering and strengthening existing markets.

The conversation dives into the transformation of a former grocery space into a modern furniture showroom, along with the broader impact of investing in smaller communities. They discuss ongoing revitalization efforts, the role of Memory Makers in driving success across nearby markets, and the opportunities this new location will create for growth and development.

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail

Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/lfxkiGyCeqU

In this spotlight from episode 354 of Stories from the River, Charlie Malouf sits down with Brian Fuller to explore what it takes to build a reputation for leadership and consistent success. Known as a go-to resource for peers across the business, Brian shares why so many sales managers and HFCs seek his guidance—and what truly makes the difference.

The conversation highlights the importance of creating an environment where Memory Makers feel confident, supported, and passionate about their work. Brian emphasizes that when people genuinely love what they do, it naturally carries over to both guests and teammates.

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail

Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/lfxkiGyCeqU

In this spotlight from episode 354 of Stories from the River, Charlie Malouf sits down with Brian Fuller to explore the impact of the VIP program and the role it plays in supporting both guests and associates. From building confidence through repetition to creating a culture centered on belief, the conversation highlights what it takes to drive consistent performance.

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lfxkiGyCeqU

Confidence, consistency, and a people-first mindset are key to driving lasting success.

In this episode of Stories from the River, host and CEO Charlie Malouf welcomes back Brian Fuller, VIP Sales Manager and two-time VIP Sales Manager of the Year at Broad River Retail. Joining from Wilson, North Carolina, he shares insights into his team's success and the impact of the VIP program—describing it as the lifeblood that supports both guests and associates.

The conversation explores his approach to building confidence through repetition and role play, his commitment to serving guests without judgment, and the meaningful impact of helping others secure the financing they need. He also reflects on motivating his team, embracing continuous improvement, and leading with intention. This episode offers a powerful look at what it takes to develop people, drive performance, and create a culture rooted in growth and support.

Brian's last appearance on the pod: Behind the Scenes of Project Premier: Recognizing and Celebrating Broad River's Memory Makers - https://youtu.be/qN5EQT9cq5g

Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/KEYLu7VfH-c

In this spotlight from episode 353 of Stories from the River, Tyler Trill sits down with Mark Deulley to explore the work behind earning Bridge Builder Awards in both CX and retail. From solving complex data challenges to leading impactful projects, the conversation highlights the power of collaboration across teams.

Mark shares insights from a major CX initiative that improved data accuracy and created lasting value across the business, along with the rollout of new sales tools and the Podium platform that streamlined processes across stores.

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail