S5:E3 From Retail Pride to Human Pride: Navigating Leadership and Connection with Ron Thurston
In this episode, Ron Thurston returns to discuss his new book 'Human Pride' and its themes of optimizing human potential in a world increasing its reliance on technology and AI. The conversation takes us through Ron’s extensive experience leading major retail brands, his journey from publishing his first book 'Retail Pride' to 'Human Pride', and the crucial balance between human connection and technological efficiency. We explore various aspects of leadership, including the importance of empathy, curiosity, and the significant role of human connection in the workplace.
Ron emphasizes the need for self-reflection, understanding core values, and maintaining strong interpersonal relationships despite technological advancements. Rejecting 'hustle culture' in favor of fostering meaningful connections and optimizing individual strengths, Ron highlights the need for human-centric approaches to recruitment, leadership, and career development via examples and insights from his own career. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with practical insights and inspirational stories that underscore the power of pride and human potential in the workplace!
About Ron Thurston:
Author, “Human Pride: Optimizing Your Potential In A Digital Job Market”
Ron Thurston is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and bold voice in the movement to reimagine leadership in a world transformed by technology. His new book, HUMAN PRIDE: Optimizing Your Human Potential in a Digital Job Market (May 2025), delivers a powerful roadmap for standing out, staying relevant, and thriving in the future of work. With over 30 years of executive experience leading teams at iconic brands like Apple, Gap, West Elm, Tory Burch, Bonobos, and Saint Laurent, Ron knows how to build winning cultures that drive performance. His first book, *RETAIL PRIDE (*2020) became a career-defining guide for thousands of industry professionals, helping them reclaim confidence and purpose in their work.
As the creator and host of the Retail in America tour and podcast, Ron spent over a year traveling across 30 states in an Airstream to spotlight the real stories and remarkable people shaping retail’s future. Today, he serves on multiple retail tech supplier advisory boards, helping brands integrate AI and digital tools without losing sight of what matters most: people. A sought-after keynote speaker, Ron brings energy, insight, and inspiration to global conferences, C-suite offsites, and corporate events. His message resonates across industries: your greatest competitive advantage is human.
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00:00 The SKUpe Newsletter
00:34 Show Intro
06:51 Welcome Back, Ron Thurston!
07:43 Discussing Ron's New Book: Human Pride
08:46 The Importance of Human Connection in Retail
10:24 Optimizing Human Potential in a Tech-Driven World
15:37 Defining and Standing by Non-Negotiables in Job Search
22:54 The Role of Empathy and Curiosity in Leadership
26:48 Challenges in Modern Hiring Practices
35:11 The Future of Work: Balancing Technology and Human Connection
38:15 Career Longevity and Brand Affinity in Retail
41:56 Navigating the Fast-Paced Industry
43:36 Adapting to Office Culture
44:39 Broadening Job Search P
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