For James Daunt, saving bookstores didn't start with technology or corporate strategy; the key was re-establishing booksellers.

In this episode, retail turnaround leader James Daunt breaks down one of the most remarkable retail turnarounds in recent years. He shares how he helped revive Barnes & Noble with an unconventional approach focused on creating a personalized experience customers can't find online.

Key takeaways:

How empowering frontline operators can outperform top-down strategy
How reducing bureaucracy can help companies refocus on customer value
Why legacy brands compete through experience, trust and high standards
How AI and technology are reshaping retail and publishing

For founders, CEOs, entrepreneurs, retailers and anyone building a brand meant to last, this conversation offers powerful insights on leadership, innovation and cultivating customer loyalty.

Listen and subscribe:

Subscribe to Cresset Podcasts Newsletter: https://cressetcapital.com/podcasts/entrepreneurs/

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-with-eric-becker/id1896628025

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033g1SCSMkQQXnNfn2SQV9

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/

Eric Becker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebecker1/

Eric Becker: https://cressetcapital.com/about/team/eric-becker/

The Long Game book: https://longgamebook.com/

Barnes & Noble CEO James Daunt: What Most Turnaround CEOs Get Wrong

The Long Game with Eric Becker

Barnes & Noble CEO James Daunt: What Most Turnaround CEOs Get Wrong