Retail leaders are often taught to look ahead, chase trends, and stay one step ahead of customer demands.

But sometimes, the most effective way forward is to look back.

When co-owners Colton and Noah took over Mother Murphy’s in Normal, Illinois, they inherited a legacy.

A beloved staple since the 1960s, Mother Murphy’s is renowned for its eclectic mix of incense, records, glassware, and counterculture essentials, which have made it a hub for generations.

Their choice to honor the store’s roots set the foundation for a thoughtful, community-driven approach that reshapes how you think about leadership in retail.

Let’s explain how Colton and Noah’s approach helped them succeed and how these lessons can shape your retail leadership skills.