In this episode, Jimmy and Kyle jump back into the Slow Growth Business Podcast to talk about what they’ve been seeing on the sales floor this season. Midline sales are softer, traffic feels different, and holiday buying habits just aren’t what they used to be.

They dig into why that’s happening, what the data actually says, and—most importantly—why December isn’t the month to start panicking or making big changes. Instead, they talk through how to stay steady, keep things positive, and help your team enjoy the season even if the numbers feel a little weird.

From showing bigger pieces to planning ahead for 2026, to simply being a supportive leader during a stressful time of year, this episode is a reminder to take a breath, stay grounded, and let the holidays be what they are.

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Hosts Kyle Bullock and Jimmy DeGroot discuss why money alone is a weak motivator, why incentives work best when they are equitable and shared, and why you can’t solve low pay problems with bonuses. They recommend auditing pay using tools like the MIT Living Wage calculator and ensuring base wages meet basic cost-of-living needs before adding incentives.

The episode shares stories about team incentives (like a trip to Hawaii), the importance of celebration and tradition, and practical steps owners can take to grow profitability so they can afford fair pay.

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Not every conflict is caused by bad people — often, it’s caused by bad communication. In this episode, Jimmy and Kyle break down Dr. John Gottman’s “Four Horsemen” — criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling — plus one bonus culprit: sarcasm. They explain how each one poisons relationships and team culture, and why even well-meaning conversations can go sideways.

More importantly, they show you how to stop them in their tracks. You’ll learn practical, real-world strategies for building trust, leading with vulnerability, and creating a healthier workplace — even on the days when everything feels like it’s falling apart.