Live Greatly
Apple Store Creator Ron Johnson on Kindness, Connection and Standing Out in the Age of AI
What will help people and businesses stand out in a world increasingly shaped by AI? According to Ron Johnson, the answer may be more human than technological. In this episode of Live Greatly , Kristel Bauer sits down with Ron Johnson, the creator of the Apple Store and author of Shop Different: How Retail Revealed Apple's Genius . Ron shares lessons from working alongside Steve Jobs, including the story behind the creation of the Genius Bar and how Apple reimagined the retail experience around connection rather than transactions. Ron and Kristel also discuss why kindness and authenticity matter in business and in life, how to handle difficult customers and support employees through tough days, and why creating meaningful experiences will become even more important in the age of AI. Ron also opens up about his time as CEO of J.C. Penney, what he wishes he had done differently, and the lessons he has learned about navigating failure. Tune in to learn: Why kindness and human connection can be a competitive advantage How to stand out in the age of AI The story behind the creation of Apple's Genius Bar Why experiences and relationships are shaping the future of retail How to navigate difficult customers and challenging moments with employees The role authenticity plays in leadership and business Ron's perspective on failure and lessons from his time at J.C. Penney Insights from Ron's new book, Shop Different: How Retail Revealed Apple's Genius ABOUT RON JOHNSON: Apple Store creator Ron Johnson is a sought-after speaker, board member, and author of Shop Different: How Retail Revealed Apple's Genius (September 22, 2026 / Harper Collins). He also founded Enjoy, the first mobile retail store, and served as the CEO of J.C. Penney. He is best known for creating the Apple Stores, working directly for Steve Jobs while serving as a member of Apple's executive team. Prior to his time at Apple, Ron was highly regarded for the work he did with Michael Graves to bring good design to all as a merchant leader at Target; their collaboration set the stage for the brand's hundreds of later design partnerships and cemented Target as America's premier upscale discount retailer. Ron lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. Connect with Ron Johnson: Order his book: Shop Different: How Retail Revealed Apple's Genius Website: https://ronjohnsonshopsdifferent.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shopdifferent/ About the Host of the Live Greatly podcast, Kristel Bauer : Kristel Bauer is a corporate wellness and performance expert, keynote speaker and TEDx speaker supporting organizations and individuals on their journeys for more happiness and success. She is the award-winning author of Work-Life Tango: Finding Happiness, Harmony, and Peak Performance Wherever You Work (John Murray Business November 19, 2024). With Kristel's healthcare background, she provides data driven actionable strategies to leverage happiness and high-power habits to drive growth mindsets, peak performance, profitability, well-being and a culture of excellence. Kristel's keynotes provide insights to "Live Greatly" while promoting leadership development and team building. Kristel is the creator and host of her global top self-improvement podcast, Live Greatly. She is a contributing writer for Entrepreneur, and she is an influencer in the business and wellness space having been recognized as a Top 10 Social Media Influencer of 2021 in Forbes. As an Integrative Medicine Fellow & Physician Assistant having practiced clinically in Integrative Psychiatry, Kristel has a unique perspective into attaining a mindset for more happiness and success. Kristel has presented to groups from the American Gas Association, Bank of America, bp, Commercial Metals Company, General Mills, Northwestern University, Santander Bank and many more. Kristel's work has been featured in Forbes and she has had multiple TV appearances including NBC News Daily, ABC News Live, FOX Weather, ABC 7 Chicago, WGN Daytime Chicago and more. Kristel lives in the Chicago, IL area and she can be booked for speaking engagements worldwide. To Book Kristel as a speaker for your next event, click here . Website: www.livegreatly.co Follow Kristel Bauer on: Instagram: @livegreatly_co LinkedIn: Kristel Bauer Twitter: @livegreatly_co Facebook: @livegreatly.co Youtube: Live Greatly, Kristel Bauer To Watch Kristel Bauer's TEDx talk of Redefining Work/Life Balance in a COVID-19 World click here. Click HERE to check out Kristel's corporate wellness and leadership blog Click HERE to check out Kristel's Travel and Wellness Blog Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast are intended for informational and educational purposes only. Always seek the guidance of your physician for any recommendations specific to you or for any questions regarding your specific health, your sleep patterns changes to diet and exercise, or any medical conditions. Always consult your physician before starting any supplements or new lifestyle programs. All information, views and statements shared on the Live Greatly podcast are purely the opinions of the authors, and are not medical advice or treatment recommendations. They have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. Opinions of guests are their own and Kristel Bauer & this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests. Neither Kristel Bauer nor this podcast takes responsibility for possible health consequences of a person or persons following the information in this educational content. Always consult your physician for recommendations specific to you.
