Secondhand Sessions

About Secondhand Sessions

Welcome to Secondhand Sessions, a podcast dedicated to the non-profit thrift store community. Your host, BJ Breish, brings years of thrifting experience but admits to being a complete podcasting novice, making this a learning experience for everyone. This passion project aims to deliver genuine, unscripted conversations with leaders in the thrift industry, exploring their stories, insights, and visions for the future. The podcast's mission is to inspire, connect, and share resources to help thrift stores thrive in today's challenging retail landscape.

Publisher

BJ Breish

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Apr 2025

Latest episode

15 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Sept 2026

   Fearless & Forward

   Fearless isn't just the title of the new Season Two Episode, it is the absolute prerequisite for surviving and thriving in non-profit retail leadership today. In this raw return to Secondhand Sessions, highly anticipated by at least three other people, maybe, the six-month silence is broken with a deeply honest look at what happens after the ribbon is cut on a massive new project while we continue to navigate what life throws at us. This episode confronts the heavy, often isolating reality of navigating structural deficits, cash-flow anxiety, and the immense personal toll of leading with your heart. By leaning into the distance-running analogy of "hitting the wall" at Mile 18, the episode reframes periods of intense struggle not as failures, but as the ultimate mental test of leadership. It is a powerful reminder that while the retail climate is unforgiving, no leader is running this race alone. Key Takeaways for Leaders Expect the Hidden Weight of Scale: Ambitious growth inevitably pulls legacy challenges to the surface and creates unforeseen structural hurdles. This is the reality of the beast, not a reflection of failed leadership. When Exhausted, Focus on Form: When expansive growth is no longer viable and cash-flow constraints hit, leaders must shift inward. Focus on fractional diagnostics: celebrate small daily victories on the sales floor, protect the culture, and keep moving the needle one calculated step at a time. Embrace the Season: Being stuck in the mud is part of the journey of success. Enduring the turbulence builds the exact strength required for the next phase of leadership. Don't Carry It Alone: The weight of transformational change in a non-profit is too heavy to shoulder in isolation. Acknowledging the struggle out loud is the first step in building the community needed to break through the wall.

2. 

   4 Mar 2026

   Light Bills | Bright Light

   Save thousands of dollars operating your business at no upfront cost? It sounds like a tall tale, but on this episode of Secondhand Sessions, I'm diving into the data to show you exactly how it’s possible. I'm joined by Marcus Brodin from Future Energy Solutions for a deep dive into energy efficiency for thrift stores and nonprofits. Full disclosure: This isn't a sponsored segment or a paid sales pitch—Secondhand Sessions is a non-monetized passion project. I don't endorse this company, nor did they pay for the content. I just want to share information with my friends. In this episode, we’re breaking down: The "No-Catch" Upgrade: Understanding the program that removes the financial barriers to modernizing your facility with zero upfront capital. LED vs. Inflation: Why switching now is the ultimatehedge against rising energy prices and looming bulb bans. The Visual Payoff: It’s not just about the utility bill—better lighting makes your treasures shine and helps your store lookspectacular. Stop burning money on outdated tech! Tune in to findout how to flip the switch on your biggest overhead expenses and keep those savings right where they belong—in your mission. https://www.feslighting.com/

3. 

   8 Jan 2026

   2026: Precedent is Irrelevant | Embrace the Doubt

   Happy New Year! I’m kicking off 2026 with a raw, solo session recorded from the front seat of my car, looking at the doors of our brand-new 44,000+ sq. ft. ReStore. This episode isn't just an update; it's a response to everyone who says "it can't be done." From spam emails telling me this podcast will fail, to industry consultants telling me my sales goals have "no precedent," I am leaning into the doubt. I'm sharing the story of how we opened our doors with zero advertising, no building sign, and managed to hit a nearly $11,000 weekday on word-of-mouth alone. Buckle up—we’re setting a $1M mandate for Year 1, and I’m taking you along for the ride.

4. 

   13 Nov 2025

   The Executive Guide | Thrift Meets Purpose (Live from Memphis)

   This special live podcast session, recorded in front of an audience of 200 Large ReStore operators, features Dwayne Spencer, CEO & President of Memphis Habitat for Humanity. Join us for his powerful call to action for executive leaders to fundamentally rethink the role of their retail operations. Dwayne and the host BJ Breish unveil how the Habitat ReStore is evolving from a mere revenue generator into a vital community asset and a multiplier of the organization's mission and heart. Executive leaders, listen closely: The future of your thrift operation isn't just about sales—it's about community engagement, operational trust, and mission alignment. Key Insights The ReStore is a Mission Multiplier, Not Just a Cash Register: Dwayne passionately argued that the ReStore's primary function is connecting the community to Habitat's mission every single day. Leaders must shift their mindset to see the dual bottom line—mission impact and profitability—as equally essential. Trust is the Foundation of Success: Dwayne detailed his personal journey and stressed the absolute necessity of building deep trust between leadership and operational teams. This trust starts with honesty, vulnerability, and openness, enabling the entire organization to collaborate effectively and thrive. Innovation and Engagement are Non-Negotiable: To address financial challenges and ensure sustainability, innovative strategies are needed. Furthermore, executives must actively work to engage board members in ReStore operations, turning them into passionate advocates who enhance support and resources. Collaboration is Key to Resilience: The overarching message was one of collaboration and togetherness. The long-term success of the ReStore—and the broader mission—relies on all parts of the organization, from the board room to the sales floor, working as one cohesive unit. This session illuminated that the evolution of thrift stores like the ReStore is a blueprint for non-profit innovation: they are becoming essential strategic assets that deepen community ties while generating crucial revenue.

5. 

   31 Oct 2025

   Vendor Hall Blitz | The Products & Partners Transforming Thrift

   Are you ready to revolutionize your nonprofit thrift operation? Buckle up for an inspiring and insightful marathon session recorded live from the Vendor Hall at the Habitat for Humanity Large ReStore Symposium in Memphis! Join me as I throw out the traditional interview format and take you on a walk-through adventure, interviewing a massive variety of vendors whose cutting-edge products and services are transforming what we do every single day. This episode is a powerful call to action, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable practices, technology integration, and powerful vendor partnerships in driving growth and success. We dive deep into: The Power of Tech: Exploring innovative solutions for inventory management, point-of-sale, and streamlining logistics. Sustainable Impact: Discovering how manufacturing and sourcing can align with your mission. Optimizing Operations: Unpacking the evolution of donation logistics, efficient shipping, and effective merchandising strategies. Unlocking Growth: Highlighting exciting purchased product opportunities and the significance of strong community engagement to enhance the customer experience and boost your average ticket sales. This giant conversation is a testament to the value of collaboration, continuous learning, and adaptation in the nonprofit sector. It's time to seize innovative solutions and drive your collective mission forward! *** Vendor Links Coming soon *** (Vendors please send me your contact information you would like displayed here)

6. 

   13 Oct 2025

   Hindsight | Headway | "Hello" Memphis

   All in 10 minutes. In this special solo session, host BJ hits the pause button on the usual interview format for a critical pre-conference primer. The driving theme: while the Large ReStore Symposium (LRS) agenda is packed, its true value lies solely with the people—the listeners and leaders who drive the mission. BJ gets candid about his own journey, detailing the "wonderful, magical world" of permitting delays while opening one of the country's largest ReStores. His hard-won lesson: stress-test your stress test and build financial contingencies for delays completely outside of your control. In the midst of new store chaos another idea continues to spark an innovative challenge to the old model: Can we stop trying to run a mediocre trucking business while operating an exceptional retail business? BJ is fired up to find a solution to the "loss leader" status of free donation pickup. Finally, the episode culminates in a special invitation to listeners attending the LRS in Memphis. BJ will be walking the halls with a recorder, asking one simple question: "What’s your story?" He argues that personal narratives—like how you fell in love with this work—are the most important resource, reminding everyone why we do what we do.

7. 

   6 Aug 2025

   Drive Data | Not Trucks | Resupply (Part 1)

   Thrift leaders, are you ready to drive data instead of trucks? Get ready for a revolution! In this episode, we're announcing a groundbreaking deal with a company that’s harnessing the power of AI and comprehensive software to completely transform the non-profit thrift industry. Forget what you think you know about Resupply—this is a new chapter. We're diving deep into how this cutting-edge technology is not only streamlining operations, but also lifting a significant operational burden from your shoulders. We're talking about a brand-new model of subsidized donation pickups—a trial we're set to embark on—and we're bringing you along for the ride. This is the beginning. You'll hear it here first, in real-time, as we document this journey through several episodes to come. This isn't just a partnership; it's a mission of empowerment and growth. By leveraging AI, Resupply is giving each non-profit thrift organization the tools and data they need to make the best decisions, from optimizing donationpickups to increasing in-store efficiency. This is creating a model where you can finally focus on your core mission, while your retail operations become more efficient and impactful than ever before. Don't miss this episode and bepart of the transformation! Our guest: Paul Tocci CEO & Founder E: paul@resupplyme.com (https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.resupplyme.com%2f&c=E,1,gmgywnPiyXamebQN6J4EJRZcNZr6JH3vaYh8xiRPxWJxCHxOjxviMhzPPYhEG3T53SJPmL0WmRRubi4xyHVlF8YRe9uQ3gnBE_stG0Tqf-9B_Q,,&typo=1) W: www.resupplyme.com (https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fresupplyme.com%2f%23%2f&c=E,1,UypQoo567eM2925YzFsw-YqqjEpJTowq-wa5cULf0kvxXU4DlhEuESUtT1_UzWY-hiEfxs_w9akxMVSRPcVoml0wss7zEuEZ3u0eH76k4AB4bDOIvBg,&typo=1)

8. 

   24 Jul 2025

   Finding True North | The People Factor

   In this session, we uncover the incredible journey of John Kunzelman, manager of a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and a true pioneer in redefining what thrift truly means. Get ready to be inspired as John shares his leadership playbook for cultivating success far beyond the balance sheet. He'llreveal how he transforms a simple store into a powerful engine for change, from groundbreaking sales strategies that ignite growth, to the power of social media in fostering deep community engagement, and the invaluable role ofthe volunteers and staff who are the very lifeblood of these operations and the key to his success. While selling goods and accepting donations are certainly part of what a thrift store does, John proves that what it is is about building relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and demonstrating that with the right leadership, a thrift store can become a cornerstone of community impact. Tune in to this "Secondhand Session" and discover how John'sunwavering commitment to people, innovation, and mission culminates in a powerful testament to the idea that thrift is so much more than just a store. https://habitatsusq.org/restore/ (https://habitatsusq.org/restore/) John Kunzelman JKunzelman@habitatsusq.org Store Manager Aberdeen ReStore 1013 Beards Hill RD Ste. 300 Aberdeen, MD 21001

9. 

   29 May 2025

   Vision, Vulnerability, Resilience | The Unbreakable Angy Smith

   Angy Smith from Habitat LA discusses building a resilient team and navigating challenges in the non-profit thrift industry, highlighting the importance of adapting to evolving consumer needs in this interview.

10. 

    29 May 2025

    Empowering Thrift Operators | A Key to Growth and Innovation

    Thrift store expert Greg Bradley shares how empowering thrift store operators drives growth and innovation by enabling them to adapt to market conditions, in this interview.

11. 

    23 May 2025

    Beyond the Numbers | The CFO Advantage with John Garton

    Chief Financial Officer John Garton discusses the importance of CFOs looking beyond financials to empower thrift leaders and significantly impact an organization's mission, also sharing insights on employee motivation and strategic planning in this interview.

12. 

    16 May 2025

    Community | Resilience | Thrift: The Asheville Story

    In this session, BJ Breish interviews Jeff Bridgman, the ReStore Director at Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, delivering a powerful narrative of resilience and community spirit. Jeff recounts his journey within Habitat over the past 11 years and how it's evolved. The conversation powerfully showcases the extraordinary resilience demonstrated by the team and the broader community as they navigated the significant challenges posed by Hurricane Helene. Jeff articulates how the ReStore transcends being a mere retail outlet; it's a cornerstone of the community, embodying the mantra, "we are community" He shares insights into innovative revenue strategies and highlights how strong community support fuels their efforts, directly contributing to affordable housing initiatives. This discussion profoundly emphasizes how non-profit thrift operations, like the ReStore, are crucial threads in the community's fabric, demonstrating collective resilience and teamwork in the relentless pursuit of a more connected and stable future for all. Jeff Bridgman ReStore Director jbridgman@ashevillehabitat.org https://www.ashevillehabitat.org/ (https://www.ashevillehabitat.org/) Be INSPIRED: Please take a few minutes to watch this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDPoU8c1Jlo) Help COMMUNITY: Mitchell/Yancey Habitat for Humanity: https://www.mitchellyanceyhabitat.org/ (https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.mitchellyanceyhabitat.org%2f&c=E,1,kDVVPu3pWFIaXxYnIecJHFKWaKJbW7_GAdcTOevZOWSSs_MMvWHA-_UkhY1gE7eeKxQf2jyVUmdrQvcEp_34ukoqTZ03zS6-Kg0-kL9jBkNPjhrakyk,&typo=1) Avery County Habitat for Humanity: https://averyhabitat.org/ (https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2faveryhabitat.org%2f&c=E,1,XJQTkkr7fNCaFnGE4_FUs0iW1J1KwI3ErqWlaMFh7cVXJa8vLrLWqRUYd2EdgSRCo6dZkQmdBkc2KvFeycIwPop2bkTJbaCO5lV_su56JWPwWWF2oo_ySQ,,&typo=1) Watauga Habitat for Humanity:  https://www.habitat.org/nc/boone/watauga-county-hfh (https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.habitat.org%2fnc%2fboone%2fwatauga-county-hfh&c=E,1,p78bw5Q5aKF_43W29QSmwjIbkCJMTn2nfrkZBN_F4lcMRmRBfmFmQqTNLCZNtXzwHEGYcn4mSssipuWqRBon2YW21vsUs1k1H20bLC37cmZJIlfAFA,,&typo=1) Transylvania County Habitat for Humanity: https://transylvaniahabitat.org/ (https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2ftransylvaniahabitat.org%2f&c=E,1,4ddBXQg1Uz4fMQr4CTba21eAmxIVtFOmHcWQyuRirdTXQC1zG8wMmk-VT06HOIPsv9GKl7nxSr3TvijQ0FsGM3Msfl2GzIoIMGxNblGYw2w,&typo=1)

13. 

    8 May 2025

    Choose Success: The Cheyenne ReStore Journey

    In this session, James Fuller shares his journey as the manager of the Cheyenne ReStore, detailing the transformation of the store from a struggling operation to a thriving retail success. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement, education, and collaboration with other stores. James discusses various strategies for growth, including operational changes, effective donation management, and the significance of attending conferences for professional development. He also addresses the challenges facing thrift stores today and the need for adaptability in the evolving retail landscape. James C. Fuller - Restore Operations Manager Habitat for Humanity of Laramie County (https://www.cheyennehabitat.org/) Office: 307-637-8067 Email: james@cheyennehfh.org (mailto:james@cheyennehfh.org)

14. 

    5 May 2025

    Boosting your Bottom Line: The Clothing Advantage

    In this episode of Secondhand Sessions, BJ Breish and Jessica Rennard discuss the evolving landscape of the resale industry, focusing on Jessica's extensive experience in secondhand clothing and the importance of sustainability. They explore the challenges faced by thrift stores, the role of technology in inventory management, and the significance of partnerships with nonprofits. The conversation highlights innovative marketing strategies and the future of thrift as a viable option for consumers looking to make environmentally conscious choices. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicarennard/ https://www.helpsy.com/

15. 

    1 May 2025

    Building Culture in Thrift

    In this episode, Bob and BJ discuss the transition from traditional retail to thrift store management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, team culture, and adaptability in the nonprofit sector. They share insights on leadership, employee engagement, and the unique challenges faced by thrift stores, while also highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive work environment and the impact of mission-driven work on team morale. Takeaways Collaboration is key to success in thrift stores. Building a positive culture enhances employee morale. Energy in the store translates to customer experience. Leadership requires balancing fun and accountability. Recognizing achievements boosts team motivation. Adaptability is crucial in the changing retail landscape. Mission-driven work fosters employee engagement. Effective communication is vital for team dynamics. Understanding the unique challenges of thrift operations is essential. Investing in team members leads to better retention. Special thanks to our guest Bob Maggetti from Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County ReStore. Robert Maggetti r.maggetti@habitatbucks.org Directorof ReStore Operations Habitatfor Humanity of Bucks County 539 Jacksonville Rd., Suite 100 Warminster, PA 18974 215.822.2812, ext 305

16. 

    23 Apr 2025

    Episode 1 - Worthwhile Wear

    Episode 1: Worthwhile Wear Recording Date: 2/5/2025 Location: Horsham, PA Guest: Josh Hilliker Organization: Worthwhile Wear https://worthwhilewear.org/ (https://worthwhilewear.org/) Contact information: Josh Hilliker <jhilliker@worthwhilewear.org (mailto:jhilliker@worthwhilewear.org)> Podcast Summary: Welcome to Episode 1 of Secondhand Sessions. This marks the beginning of a new podcasting adventure to capture voices and perspectives throughout the Thrift Industry! Join host BJ Breish as they reconnect with an old friend and fellow thrift industry veteran, Josh. Their candid conversation in the broom closet of a future thrift store covers a range of topics, from store real estate and cost-saving strategies to product mix, the critical role of merchandising, and the challenges facing thrift stores today. Get an inside look at Josh's growing thrift store operation (currently two locations, soon to be three) and learn about the inspiring mission of the organization they support, which works to reach and serve survivors of human trafficking. And, as BJ bravely faces the microphone for the first time, listeners can join in the shared experience of navigating the uncharted territory of podcasting

17. 

    23 Apr 2025

    Introduction - Secondhand Sessions

    Welcome to Secondhand Sessions, a podcast dedicated to the non-profit thrift store community. Your host, BJ Breish, brings years of thrifting experience but admits to being a complete podcasting novice, making this a learning experience for everyone. This passion project aims to deliver genuine, unscripted conversations with leaders in the thrift industry, exploring their stories, insights, and visions for the future. The podcast's mission is to inspire, connect, and share resources to help thrift stores thrive in today's challenging retail landscape. Importantly, this is not an endorsement platform. While industry leaders and partners will share their opinions and ideas, the podcast remains a non-monetized project focused on open dialogue. Join BJ on this adventure as they explore the challenges faced by ReStores and the transformative potential of the thrift store world.

Who has been a guest on Secondhand Sessions

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Angy Smith
• Greg Bradley
• John Garton

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

73

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact Secondhand Sessions

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.