Discover how AI-powered sales automation is transforming the distribution industry! In this episode, Justin Johnson, founder of Motivate, shares how distributors can free up 50%+ of their inside sales teams' time through intelligent order and quote automation.
Watch to understand more about AI-assisted orders, multi-channel ordering via text, e-commerce drag-and-drop technology that actually works for distributors, sales intelligence that predicts customer needs before they call, why traditional e-commerce fails for B2B distributors, and more.
Justin brings 25 years of distribution technology experience and shares insights from building his fourth company. Learn why AI isn't just a competitive advantage anymore—it's a necessity for wholesale distributors, plumbing suppliers, electrical distributors, HVAC companies, and building material suppliers.
Is AI just another buzzword in the ERP world, or is there real value for manufacturers and distributors? In this episode, Brad Feakes, President and Partner at Estes Group, shares 20 years of hard-earned insights about what AI really means for ERP systems—and why most companies are thinking about it wrong.
Estes Group is a leading provider of ERP consulting, IT, and cloud managed services based in Loveland, Colorado and, with two decades in the industry, Brad brings his practical, no-nonsense advice for businesses navigating digital transformation. Tune in to discover why AI needs a body, not just a brain, and how to build a smart integration strategy that actually delivers results!
Our guest on this episode is Carolyn Hunt, an independent consultant specializing in Epicor Prophet 21 implementation with over 50 years of experience in industrial distribution. She sits down with Karthik to share her unique perspective on how the distribution industry evolved from manual processes to embracing modern ERP systems, third-party integrations, and AI technology. Learn how Prophet 21 transformed from proprietary hardware systems to today's web-based solutions, and discover why successful distributors focus on growing their business through technology without losing the human touch that builds lasting customer relationships.
Carolyn reveals practical insights from her decades of consulting experience, including how she's helped countless businesses transition from paper-based accounting to fully integrated ERP systems. She discusses the critical role of system integrations, why no single ERP can do everything, and how platforms like DCKAP Integrator enable distributors to connect best-of-breed solutions. This conversation also explores the balance between AI automation and maintaining personal relationships in an industry built on trust and service.
New employees often have high expectations for office technology, but many companies struggle to meet those expectations. It's crucial to maintain those expectations in the workplace, not lower them just because it's "business tech".
In this not-to-miss episode, Stephan Fulop, Chief Product & Technology Officer at DSG, highlights the challenges of information technology in creating a smart office environment, and ensuring that the office runs smoothly and efficiently using high quality business technology, and much more!
Our recent guest, Pete Chrobak, is the Chief Financial Officer at Duncan-Parnell. In this conversation with Karthik Chidambaram, he shares strategic insights about Duncan-Parnell, from its origins to its pathway to the future. From his background to his approach to managing finances, we hear why his role is more than just about money. They talk about how the company focuses on maintaining a healthy cash flow and strategically plans for business growth, helping to drive the company's long-term success. They also discuss how smart investing can make a big impact. Watch to the end, and don't miss out on all the great advice in this episode!
Many technology companies are continuing to discuss artificial intelligence, but are they missing the practical applications? In this episode, Frank Heenan emphasizes the need to understand real-world use cases for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
In many cases, it calls for ERP systems to become more condensed and useful, focusing on actual job functions and machine learning. Tune in to better understand some of the practical ways that AI can help boost efficiency!
In this episode of the Driven by DCKAP podcast, our guest is David Bauders, the CEO of SPARXIQ and Trade Hounds.
In this conversation with Karthik Chidambaram, Bauders explains how SPARXIQ, a pioneer in price optimization since 1993, helps manufacturers and distributors capture value by analyzing transactional data to understand price sensitivity and optimize profitability.
He also delves into Trade Hounds, which has evolved from a social app for Gen Z’ers into a thriving social B2B marketplace, while touching on the integration of Wrangld's functionality into the Trade Hounds app in order to cover the entire estimating-to-cash cycle for users.
Don’t miss this engaging conversation that highlights the importance of optimizing pricing by mastering data and converting that data into dollars!
In this interview, Karthik sits down with Cole Mercier from DSG to uncover his unique role as Communications Manager, and how DSG is revolutionizing the skilled trades industry. He shares how DSG, a 100-year-old, 100% employee-owned wholesale distributor, is tackling the evolving landscape of communications, training and supporting tradespeople, and investing in the next generation.
Learn why product knowledge and local connections are key in this dynamic industry. Plus, discover how DSG is actively combating the trades gap through scholarships and innovative career academies!
Our latest guest is Brian Wild, the Chief Government Relations Officer at NAW (the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors). During his conversation with Karthik while attending the NAW Executive Summit, he talked about his role at NAW, making the move to Washington, D.C. with aspirations to make a difference, and what it takes to be an effective lobbyist, driven by his foundational belief in the principles of capitalism. Brian shares his genuine excitement about the world of politics, viewing it as a 'contact sport' that demands ongoing and active engagement, along with his voracious appetite for staying on top of current events, showcasing the strength of his commitment to political science, the support of industry growth, and what it takes to be the voice representing the best interests of the very businesses that make up the backbone of our economy.
In this episode, John Perez, the CEO of Unified A/R, sits down with Karthik to discuss how accounts receivable automation provides a comprehensive view of order to cash processes for wholesaler distributors and manufacturers, with the aim to help them get paid faster, creating a very frictionless experience.
In this way, their solution streamlines payment management and reduces costs, improving cash flow and overall financial efficiency while using accounts receivable software. Listen in on their entire conversation for more insights on how AR automation can save you money!
Our guest on this episode showcases how true leadership and wisdom can shape both personal and organizational success. Doug Borchers, the President of Superior Aluminum, shares deep insights and drives the importance of good people and good ideas.
In their conversation, we learn from the mindset of personal development, with valuable lessons about creating lasting impact in the community, and how social responsibility drives meaningful business outcomes.
Joining the podcast and sitting down with Karthik Chidambaram on this episode is Ez Natarajan, the Founder and CEO of CoreStack. They discuss everything under the cloud, including why cloud governance is such a key piece in business security and how to do it right. Watch the full conversation to know the impacts of internet security, the importance of data, and the best business strategy for success.
Scott Attman, the Vice President of Acme Paper and Supply Company, joins the podcast this week to talk with Karthik Chidambaram, CEO of DCKAP, all about growing and meeting customer needs in the distribution industry. In their conversation, we hear insights on the volume of distribution Acme Paper and Supply has evolved into, learning more about their philosophy on product diversification, the role of value-added services, how advancing technology, AI and automation play a role in the evolution of distribution, and much more!
Steven Levy, VP of Enterprise Architecture at Infor, sits down with Karthik Chidambaram to discuss pivotal topics in the world of distribution with technology and business strategy. They delve into automation, ERP software solutions, and the critical distinctions between innovation and differentiation.
Discover how businesses can accelerate growth in today's dynamic marketplace and explore the secrets to success from a seasoned expert whose extensive experience in the industry provides invaluable insights. With a focus on best practices and strategies, this conversation offers a unique lens on navigating the complexities of modern enterprise architecture while working closely with leading distributors.
Joining us for this deep diving episode is Brooks Hamilton, Founder of AI Strategy Advisors, to talk about cutting-edge innovation, game-changing trends, navigating challenges, and more.
Artificial intelligence is transforming industries across the globe. As more and more businesses implement AI in distribution, it's essential to understand the implications of this technology on your operations, customers, and employees. Karthik and Brooks explore key insights you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.
Eric Chernik, the CEO of Building Controls & Solutions, joins us on this episode to break down how to navigate challenges and success, cultivating leadership and growth, utilizing technology effectively, strategizing for your long term goals and continually driving towards them, and more.
Tune in to gain an invaluable perspective on leading a team to the top!
Kevin Weadick, the CEO of FleetPride, joins this episode to share his journey of over two decades in experience leading teams in digital transformations, industrial product management and marketing, and being appointed to his current role leading for the largest distributor of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts in North America.
Their discussion offers valuable insights about organizational effectiveness and efficiency, improvement strategies in modern business operations, exploring how decision making and organizational culture shapes successful enterprise outcomes, and demonstrating how process improvement methods can drive sustainable growth.
Jim Derry, the CEO of Field Fastener joins this episode to share his journey in distribution, to discuss key leadership insights and explore essential personal development strategies. We learn how an industry pioneer turned a company with humble beginnings into a great success, while continuing to see amazing growth and becoming a touchstone to the community.
Through knowledge management practices and professional development approaches, we hear how a successful leader navigates challenges and fosters growth. Listen in on their conversation to hear more about some of these transformative methods that drive organizational success, inspire lifelong learning and sustainable business evolution.
Eric Hoplin, the President and CEO of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), sits down with Karthik Chidambaram while in Washington DC at the NAW Executive Summit for an insightful discussion on the conference, the organization and their dedication to the betterment of distribution, as well as his positive future outlook on the industry.
In the premiere episode of the 2025 season of the Driven by DCKAP podcast, Founder and CEO of DCKAP, Karthik Chidambaram, sits down with Kathryn Poehling Seymour, the President and CEO of First Supply. As a longstanding family-owned leader in the industry, First Supply serves as a comprehensive supplier for plumbing, HVAC, municipal needs, waterworks, well and septic systems, building PVF, and industrial supplies.
With over 125 years of family business legacy behind her, Kathryn is at the forefront of steering the business into the future. In this insightful conversation, she discusses her journey within the business, their comprehensive succession planning, the significance of preserving family legacy, the vital role of community engagement, job creation alongside automation and emerging technologies in the industry, and more.