People-Powered Tech

Part 3 of 5 in the Analytics Imperative series.Pricing decisions at scale can't run on spreadsheets. In this episode, we go deep into the prescriptive engine—a parameterized rules framework that compresses weeks of work into hours of decision-ready insight. We explore how to turn analyst instincts into codified playbooks, enable business users to drive change without code, and create real-time scenario models that give teams confidence and control.ABOUT BUILD BETTER WORK PODCAST Build Better Work by ProfitOptics is a podcast about the power of technology to transform work and lives with our host Greg Stivers. The show is produced by ProfitOptics, a technology consulting firm that builds software and engineers data solutions to drive business performance for mid-size and enterprise companies. CONNECT WITH PROFITOPTICS ProfitOptics.com Follow us on LinkedIn

Part 2 of 5 in the Analytics Imperative series.Analytics starts with the right foundation—and that means data attribution. Tony and Nick share how a Fortune 500 distributor digitized 40,000 contracts, tagged over 100 unique clauses, and protected $1B+ in margin. This episode unpacks the hidden power of structured variables, AI-assisted contract parsing, and why “progress over perfection” beats the myth of clean data.ABOUT BUILD BETTER WORK PODCAST Build Better Work by ProfitOptics is a podcast about the power of technology to transform work and lives with our host Greg Stivers. The show is produced by ProfitOptics, a technology consulting firm that builds software and engineers data solutions to drive business performance for mid-size and enterprise companies. CONNECT WITH PROFITOPTICS ProfitOptics.com Follow us on LinkedIn

Part 1 of 5 in the Analytics Imperative series.Tariffs aren't the problem—they're the litmus test. In this opening episode, we expose why most distributors face paralysis during disruptions like tariff hikes: fragmented data, manual processes, and rigid pricing systems. Tony Pericle explains why this moment demands not an evolution—but a revolution—in analytics. Because when cost moves fast, your data has to move faster.ABOUT BUILD BETTER WORK PODCAST Build Better Work by ProfitOptics is a podcast about the power of technology to transform work and lives with our host Greg Stivers. The show is produced by ProfitOptics, a technology consulting firm that builds software and engineers data solutions to drive business performance for mid-size and enterprise companies. CONNECT WITH PROFITOPTICS ProfitOptics.com Follow us on LinkedIn

This is the first episode in a special series on pricing, disruption, and analytics readiness for distributors.In this kickoff conversation, Nick Pericle and Tony Pericle unpack why so many distributors were caught flat-footed during the last tariff wave—and why it's not the tariffs themselves that cause margin erosion, but the slow, disjointed responses caused by outdated systems and siloed data.Tony introduces his five levels of analytics maturity and explains why most companies remain stuck in reactive reporting, unable to move into the predictive, prescriptive decisions that disruption demands.You'll hear a real-world case study where Tony's team helped a $ 1B+ distributor analyze over 40,000 customer contracts to protect margin and act decisively during the 2020–2022 inflation surge.This episode sets the stage for the rest of the series, exploring how distribution leaders can build disruption-ready analytics strategies before the next wave hits.If today's conversation sparked ideas or urgency, share it with your company's colleagues responsible for pricing, finance, or margin protection.Connect with us:Nathan: nick@profitoptics.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickpericleTony: tony@profitoptics.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonypericleShow Email: pod@profitoptics.com ABOUT BUILD BETTER WORK PODCAST Build Better Work by ProfitOptics is a podcast about the power of technology to transform work and lives with our host Greg Stivers. The show is produced by ProfitOptics, a technology consulting firm that builds software and engineers data solutions to drive business performance for mid-size and enterprise companies. CONNECT WITH PROFITOPTICS ProfitOptics.com Follow us on LinkedIn

In this thought-provoking episode of Build Better Work, host Nick Pericle goes into how generative AI is reshaping the wholesale distribution industry. Drawing from his recent presentations at events like the HARDI Annual Meeting, Nick shares actionable insights on using AI tools to streamline quoting, optimize pricing, and enhance customer interactions. He demonstrates how smaller, incremental implementations can be as impactful as large-scale investments, making advanced technologies accessible for distributors at all levels.Connect with us:Nathan: nick@profitoptics.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickpericleShow Email: pod@profitoptics.com 

What if the key to building better work lies in a unique integration of people, process, and technology? Join Greg as he sits down with Alexander Vucicic— CTO and the second employee of ProfitOptics, also known as “Aca”. Together, they navigate his 15-year journey within the company, unveiling the creation and evolution of Catalyst, our cutting-edge technology method. From his move from Serbia to Richmond, Virginia, to his professional milestones, Aca offers a tapestry of insight that intertwines personal and technological growth.Connect with us:Aca: Aca@profitoptics.com Aca's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandarvucetic/Show Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

Nathan Henry is back from the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas! In this episode, he sits down with Greg to share how casinos and tech companies are adapting to the digital habits of modern players and meeting the demands of those with short attention spans. Nathan shares his expert insights on maximizing entertainment value and transforming the gaming landscape through personalized experiences, digital innovation, and tracking the right data.Connect with us:Nathan: nathan.henry@profitoptics.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/n8henry/ Show Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

Nick Pericle returns as host of the show to talk with the Founder of ProfitOptics, Tony Pericle, about their recent experience at the MDM Shift Conference in Denver, CO. Join them for an enlightening discussion about how companies like ABC and Reese have revolutionized their business models, shifting from mere transactions to a customer-centric approach that has effectively doubled their sales.They also share highlights from the conference from each speaker, the dangers of failing to incorporate tools like AI into business operations, and a new formula for doing business: Output = Inspiration ^ Trust x (Curiosity + Capability)Connect with us:Tony's LinkedInEmail: Tony@profitoptics.comShow Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

oin us as we sit down with Kurt Boughman, a Senior Manager at ProfitOptics, to uncover the secrets behind crafting personalized solutions that not only meet but exceed client expectations. Kurt shares his wealth of experience, highlighting the importance of the core values at ProfitOptics like centricity, authenticity, passion, curiosity, and agility. You'll hear real-world stories that illustrate how deeply engaging with clients can lead to remarkable outcomes.Kurt is a picture of what ProfitOptics likes to deliver on for their clients, and the kinds of relationships that can come from a team that builds better work.Connect with us:Kurt's LinkedIn: https://www.https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-j-boughman-06790a6a/linkedin.com/in/kurt-j-boughman-06790a6a/Kurt's Email: Kurt.Boughman@profitoptics.comShow Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

Ever felt like technology promises simplicity but ends up complicating things instead? Join us as we unpack this paradox with Stephen Moegling, Chief Marketing Officer at ProfitOptics. From health wearables that create stress to businesses bogged down by technical debt, we explore how advancements intended to streamline life can sometimes add unexpected layers of complexity.In this conversation, Stephen and Greg delve into how ProfitOptics helps clients break free from inefficient, spreadsheet-based workflows. We share stories and strategies for designing user-friendly software solutions that truly simplify business processes.Connect with us:Stephen's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmoegling/Stephen's Podcast: Business MisfitShow Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

Today's show is the announcement for ProfitOptics plunge into the hospitality sector. Nathan Henry is back on the podcast to share what his team has been up to in preparation for this shift and the secrets they have come up with for transforming both employee and guest experiences in the hospitality industry. Nathan tells Greg how innovative tools and streamlined processes can remove daily friction, allowing employees to focus on what truly matters—creating memorable guest experiences. They talk about the unique demands of the hospitality sector, emphasizing empathy, personalized service, and client success as essential ingredients for building lasting relationships.Connect with us:Nathan: nathan.henry@profitoptics.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/n8henry/ Show Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

What if the key to a thriving workplace lies in just three words? Join us on Build Better Work our host, Greg Stivers, as he introduces Mike Edmonds, Senior Director at ProfitOptics. On this episode, Mike shares the transformative catalyst methodology, which emphasizes strategy, design, delivery, and scale. Listen as he showcases how ProfitOptics swiftly responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by developing a health management app for universities and organizations, and the power of their two-week sprint process. Mike also shares his take on how transparent communication and agility can strengthen client relationships, even in the face of shifting corporate priorities and budget constraints.Connect with us:Mike: ​​michael.edmonds@profitoptics.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-edmonds-a915041a/ Show Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

What if the key to a thriving workplace lies in just three words? Join us on Build Better Work, formerly known as People Powered Tech, as Greg Stivers and Nathan Henry take you behind the scenes of a transformative journey at ProfitOptics. We unveil the strategic exercises that led to our new vision, mission, and values, reflecting on how the phrase "Build Better Work" encapsulates our commitment to enhancing the work experience for both customers and employees. Nathan shares his personal connection to this mission, highlighting the joy and passion that drive our efforts, and showcases the collaborative spirit that fuels our innovative solutions. We also talk about the ethos of ProfitOptics and how curiosity isn't just a value, it's a superpower!Connect with us:Nathan: nathan.henry@profitoptics.comShow Email: pod@profit.optics.com 

What role does human interaction play in the world of technology? Join us as Tony Pericle, founder of ProfitOptics, reveals his incredible journey from a tech enthusiast to the head of a company that leverages digital solutions to enhance profitability. This episode offers a unique exploration of Tony's serendipitous connection with a Serbian software engineer that led to a thriving partnership with nearly 200 engineers from Serbia. We'll also share stories that highlight the resilience and hospitality of the Serbian people, shedding light on how their humility, passion, and curiosity have shaped our projects and company culture.Connect with Tony:LinkedinEmail: Tony@profitoptics.com

Join us on People Powered Tech as Nathan and Nick recount their exhilarating experience at the Distribution Strategy Group's Applied AI for Distributors Conference in Chicago. This episode is packed with the energy and educational value that they soaked in, from practical demonstrations of ChatGPT solving everyday problems to the invaluable networking opportunities with industry professionals. We're sharing the groundbreaking insights that left us buzzing and ready to transform our approach to AI. Be sure you check out our new workshop by visiting BuildBetterWork.ai

Joining us on the People Powered Tech Podcast is Benj Cohen, the founder and CEO of Proton AI, an AI-Powered CRM for distributors. Both ProfitOptics and Proton will be at the Distribution Strategy Group Applied AI Conference in Chicago in early June. They will be joining distributors and other service providers in sharing practical applications of AI that are driving the distribution industry forward. In this conversation, Nick and Benj discuss topics that range from what small to large distributors need to consider when building with AI, some practical use cases and data considerations, as well as the importance of culture in distribution when implementing technology.If you enjoy this conversation, both Benj and Nick would be happy to continue much of this - either virtual, or in person at DSG Applied AI. Reach out if you're interested in attending, and we will be happy to provide a discount code for attendance. Connect With BenjLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benj-cohen/www.proton.ai

In the ever-evolving world of technology, knowing when to pivot and how to measure success can make or break your strategic game. And the stakes seem even higher when its someone else's money backing your business and your private investors want an immediate return. Nathan and Nick dissect the crucial role of end-user involvement and how to harness the 'voice of the customer' for a thriving business. We also tackle the nuanced differences between 'uppercase S' and 'lowercase s' strategies, ensuring that every level of your organization is marching to the beat of the same strategic drum. 

In this episode, you will meet Tony Pericle, the founder of Profit Optics. Tony's evolution from a zealous account manager to a strategic powerhouse in the fields of healthcare distribution offer an insight into the systems that Profit Optics now builds and delivers on for clients in every field. Closing the loop, we navigate the vast ocean of artificial intelligence, sharing tales from the HIDA Executive Conference and glimpses into AI's potential to revolutionize business and human interaction. Tune in to discover how AI is not just reshaping our operational landscape but also redefining our commercial ethos and the fabric of human connection.

In this episode of People-Powered Tech, Nick Pericle returns to talk about the MDM conference, which ProfitOptics was able to play a role in. Imagine a world where AI's lineage ensures every decision is traceable back to its data roots. That's the innovative approach a logistics leader brings to the table, which we explore alongside the intriguing notion that English may soon become the most pivotal 'programming language,' thanks to advancements in natural language processing. Our discussion at the MDM conference, complete with a live AI demo, opens your eyes to the practical applications of AI and prompts engineering's crucial role in harnessing the power of OpenAI.

In this episode of People-Powered Tech, we paint your roadmap to navigating the exciting possibilities and real-world applications of artificial intelligence in business. From quirky gadgets to life-saving healthcare, we underscore the importance of data-driven custom experiences and the plethora of platform-building choices. You'll get an insider's perspective on AI integration's strategic, problem-solving nature, where investment meets return, and how community collaboration can amplify that value. Stay tuned for a journey through the iterative path of AI experimentation, the crucial human element within technological advancement, and a playful lightning round that humanizes the bits and bytes of our digital world.

In this episode of People-Powered Tech, meet the multifaceted Nathan Henry. Nathan unravels the conundrum of why even the best companies can stumble with software, pinpointing the crux of the issue: user needs that have been swept under the rug. This conversation isn't just about what's on the screen; it's about envisioning the future with AI as your personal sandwich artist, tailoring experiences to your taste. We venture into the realm of AR, VR, and wearables, pondering their potential to merge our digital interactions with the tangible world. In the spirit of innovation and teamwork that defines ProfitOptics, we celebrate the positive ripples of new team members, donut days, and the need to be curious about the future of tech.

In this episode of People-Powered Tech, meet the multifaceted Felicia Holzgrefe. Felicia shares the symphony of strategy and meticulous planning that goes into the corporate events that bring you your favorite software. We unpack the art of prioritizing when resources are thin, the thrill of making hard choices between a feature or a fun activity, and the key to marrying fun and functionality. Discover her unique journey to our team, her hobby of breathing new life into old furniture, and the vibrant culture she nurtures with her mini zoo at home.

In this episode of People-Powered Tech, Nick Pericle, VP of Technology Strategy & Solutions at ProfitOptics, returns to the show to talk about navigating the chaos of change, drawing parallels between the foundational laws of physics and the unpredictable nature of technology implementations. Nick sheds light on why businesses facing thin margins often turn to custom SaaS over traditional ERP systems, emphasizing the need for industry-specific solutions and controlled workflows to stay afloat in today's competitive landscape. We also discuss factors like unique business requirements, speed to market, and the frequently underestimated total cost of ownership.

In this episode of People Powered Tech, host Greg Stivers sits down with Nick Pericle, Managing Director at ProfitOptics,to delve into the world of ERP, SaaS, and custom SaaS solutions. They discuss the critical roles and core capabilities of ERPs, the rise of SaaS solutions, and how custom SaaS addresses specific needs not covered by core ERPs. They also explore the future of ERPs and custom SaaS in the fast-changing landscape of technology integration. Get ready for an enlightening and informative discussion that sheds light on the intersection of business and technology

In this episode of People Powered Tech, host Greg Stivers sits down with Nick Pericle, Managing Director at ProfitOptics, to tackle the challenges wholesale distributors face in adopting custom software, addressing concerns such as cost, ROI, and the ever-looming complexity of tech breakthroughs like AI.

In this episode of People Powered Tech, host Greg Stivers sits down with  Laurie Paciocco-Wood, Managing Director at ProfitOptics, to discuss the importance of evaluating revenue AND expenses to achieve full profitability. 

People-Powered Tech is a podcast about tech and the people behind the tech. Host Greg Stivers and guests discuss tech trends and thriving in the digital world. The show is produced by ProfitOptics, a technology consulting firm that builds software and engineers data solutions to drive visibility, efficiency, and profitability for companies. Learn more at ProfitOptics.com.  ABOUT PEOPLE-POWERED TECH PODCAST People-Powered Tech is a podcast about tech and the people behind the tech. Host Greg Stivers and guests discuss tech trends and thriving in the digital world. The show is produced by ProfitOptics, a technology consulting firm that builds software and engineers data solutions to drive business performance for mid-size and enterprise companies. CONNECT WITH PROFITOPTICS ProfitOptics.com Follow us on LinkedIn