In Season Two, Episode Three of Blade to Greatness, hosts *Ricardo Belmar* and *Casey Golden* sit down with *Andy Laudato,* _COO_ of *The Vitamin Shoppe* and author of *Fostering Innovation.* Andy introduces his hierarchy of IT needs, a framework modeled after Maslow’s pyramid, that shows why retail leaders must first build a strong foundation before pursuing retail innovation.
This episode dives into the critical steps CIOs and retail executives need to take to earn credibility, manage risk, and create the conditions where retail innovation can thrive. Andy explains why “keeping the lights on” is job number one, how running lean and efficient IT operations builds trust, and why clarity in project prioritization is essential for success. He also shares practical advice on balancing operational stability with retail transformation goals, managing high‑risk projects, and ensuring data accuracy before layering on advanced technologies like AI.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why IT stability and credibility are prerequisites for retail innovation
- How CIOs can balance operational excellence with retail transformation initiatives
- The importance of prioritization and clarity in project management
- Strategies for creating value before innovating
- Why accurate data is the foundation for AI and analytics success
- How retail leaders can earn their seat at the table by building trust
If you’re passionate about retail innovation, the future of technology in retail, and leadership skills you need to succeed, subscribe to Blade to Greatness and explore more episodes from the Retail Razor Podcast Network.
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*The Retail Razor: Blade to Greatness S2E3*
*Released on December 9, 2025*
*Guest info:*
Andy Laudato, COO, The Vitamin Shoppe
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlaudato/
Author, _Fostering Innovation_ available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/d7JxrfJ
*Chapters*
00:00 Preview
00:49 Show Intro
02:40 Welcome Andy Laudato - Building the Foundation for Innovation
04:05 Hierarchy of IT Needs
06:29 Creating Value and Innovation
12:27 Balancing Operational Stability and Innovation
16:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
16:38 Show Close
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