In this episode of Undercover Customer, I sit down with global innovation strategist Matt Mueller to break down what innovation really means inside retail stores—and why most companies are getting it wrong.

Redefining Innovation – Why innovation is not about AI, robots, or shiny tech, but about solving real problems customers actually have.

The Power of Store Visits – Why corporate leaders need to get out of the boardroom and back into stores to see what’s really happening.

Human Intelligence and Mystery Shopping – How real customer observation reveals what data alone can’t tell you.

From Insight to Action – How to turn findings into change by storytelling, not spreadsheets.

AI in Retail – Where AI can make an immediate difference, and how most companies are missing simple opportunities to use it well.

Matt also shares his four-step Mindful Innovation Framework—a practical way to identify real problems, build smarter plans, execute with purpose, and turn insights into measurable action.

If you’re leading a retail team, building customer experiences, or just tired of surface-level “innovation” talk, this conversation will show you how to create change that actually works.

Connect with Matt: LinkedIn
Purchase his Book: The Mindful Innovator: Learn How to Slow Down to Move Faster & More Purposefully