Podcasts about Supplier

Send me a messageIn this week's episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast, I sit down with Sam Jenks, Chief Revenue Officer at Kodiak Hub, to explore why supplier relationship management (SRM) is no longer a “nice-to-have” but a mission-critical capability.Sam shares his journey in procurement technology and explains why traditional supplier management approaches, spreadsheets, siloed systems, tick-box compliance, are no longer fit for purpose in today's volatile, uncertain, and sustainability-driven landscape. He makes a compelling case for treating supplier relationships as strategic assets, not transactions, and shows how stronger data, collaboration, and lifecycle thinking can unlock resilience, innovation, and measurable sustainability impact.We talk about how poor quality directly undermines sustainability, why procurement must think beyond ROI to the “cost of inaction,” and how AI, particularly agentic AI, will reshape the way organisations capture insights, manage risk, and reduce emissions across complex supply bases. Sam also points out that most procurement teams still only secure a fraction of the technology they need, and offers advice on building the business case for smarter SRM.If your organisation is serious about Scope 3 emissions, resilient sourcing, or extracting real value from supplier collaboration, this conversation is for you. It's about moving past compliance checklists and building supplier partnerships that deliver long-term advantage.Tune in and discover why SRM might just be the most powerful lever in your supply chain strategy.Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain' podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Podcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous Subscribers: Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can become a Sustainable Supply Chain+ subscriber - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one and give you access to the full back catalog of over 460 episodes.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Join Casey Roberts, Founder of STAT Recovery Services, as he uncovers how suppliers lose revenue through deductions, chargebacks, and other opportunity areas within the retail supply chain.Casey breaks down real-world insights on thinking like a retailer, preventing profit erosion, and optimizing the supplier-retailer relationship. From root cause analysis to strategic recovery tactics, you'll gain the tools to spot issues early, fix them permanently, and boost long-term profitability.If you're doing business with major retailers, this podcast might reveal what you didn't know you were missing—and what it's really costing you.

In this episode of the Product & Packaging Powerhouse, host Megan Young Gamble reconnects with longtime friend Marc Winston, Senior Director at National Minority Supplier Development Council Inc.® (NMSDC®) and the President and CEO of Marc Winston Enterprises. Marc and Megan reminisce on growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas, along with Marc's journey from early sports and educational influences, a robust corporate career in logistics, supply chain and supplier diversity at Walmart. The conversation dives deep into the value of supplier diversity, the power of certifications (like NMSDC and WBENC), and the importance of intentional networking and relationship-building for brands and businesses seeking corporate partnerships. Marc emphasizes how certifications provide access, not guarantees,  sharing actionable advice on leveraging networks, staying resilient, and scaling businesses. The episode wraps with rapid-fire fun facts and practical takeaways for entrepreneurs looking to grow through inclusion and strategic connections.Affiliate & Other Links: [Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie”  [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager [FREEBIE] Access commonly referenced organizations and tools in ONE PLACE with our handy guide HERE [link] https://bit.ly/OSTPlay 2[WATCH OUR EPISODES] Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List  [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b [FOLLOW & CONNECT] with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.com[WORK WITH MEGAN]  @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call   [link] https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-session[Powerhouse Guest Marc's LINKS]LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marc-winston-774179151 Email Address: mwinstonenterprises@yahoo.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/_m.winston/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/m.winston.8?mibextid=ZbWKwLNational Minority Supplier Development Council Inc.® (NMSDC®) : https://nmsdc.org/Episode Quotes:.Certification is like a passport,  it opens the door, but you still have to take the trip.Everybody needs someone advocating for them in rooms they're not in.A fast no isn't failure. Sometimes it's the first step toward a slow yes.Supplier diversity is about access, advocacy, and advancement, not handouts.Your why gets you in the room. Your execution keeps you there.The salt from rejection today can turn into sugar tomorrow, if you put in the work.Resilience in sports taught me resilience in business, you adjust, you pivot, and you keep playing.Success in supplier diversity isn't about luck. It's about showing up, following up, and staying ready.

MORE STAFFINGRecruit, onboard, and train incredible virtual professionals in the Philippines with my friends at More Staffing by visiting ⁠https://morestaffing.co/af⁠. INTELLIGEMSIntelligems brings A/B testing to business decisions beyond copy and design. Test your pricing, shipping charges, free shipping thresholds, offers, SaaS tools, and more by clicking here: https://bit.ly/42DcmFl. Get 20% off the first 3 months with code FARIS20.//Richie Mashiko is the CEO of She's Birdie and the Head of Beacon, a division of Iris Financial that does fractional financial consulting for DTC brands. Email Richie at richie@irisfinance.co.//A brutally transparent turnaround story. Richie Mashiko walks through how he took She's Birdie from a $3M loss and $6.5M in obligations to an operationally disciplined business paying down debt—without Meta ads. We break down the debt stack, negotiation order, cash-flow forecasting, and the exact operating changes that created free cash to service creditors.What you'll learn fast:- Debt triage that works: Prioritizing bank lines with personal guarantees, restructuring MCAs, sequencing suppliers and vendors, and why lawsuits are rarely the optimal path for counterparties.- Cash-flow clarity: How a weekly cash-flow model drives decisions and sets realistic paydown schedules.- Opex rightsizing: Cutting bloat from ~$500K/month to ~$75K, what to cut first, and how to preserve core capabilities.- Ad spend discipline: Turning off losing channels, operating with Amazon ads only, and rebuilding profitability before scale.- Unit economics that fund the plan: 90% landed margin before fulfillment, ~30% all-in cost of delivery, and why high margin + favorable terms enable rapid debt reduction.- Supplier terms that matter: 25% deposit, 75% net-120 after cargo-ready—how to negotiate (and keep) terms through a downturn.- Operator mindset: Replace vanity growth with durable free cash flow; define “winning” as consistent distributions, not fantasy exits.If you're feeling margin pressure, stuck in growth-at-all-costs habits, or unclear on your balance sheet, this episode gives you a concrete operating playbook you can adapt immediately.//CHAPTER TITLES:00:02:10 - The Rescue Mission Of She's Birdie 00:05:06 - Initial Growing Pains Post Covid (Product Development)00:11:49 - How We Almost Got Bought By Amazon00:16:55 - Breaking Down The Balance Sheet00:22:46 - Keeping The Bank From Freezing Assets00:24:05 - Operational Vs. Finance Challenges00:31:17 - Bad Ad Dollars00:35:20 - Manufacturing Terms00:40:19 - The Secret Sauce//SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL FOR 2X/WEEKLY UPLOADS!//ADMISSIONGet the best media buying training on the Internet + a free coaching call with Common Thread Collective's media buyers when you sign up for ADmission here: ⁠⁠https://www.youradmission.co/andrew-faris-podcast⁠//FOLLOW UP WITH ANDREW X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/andrewjfaris ⁠Email: podcast@ajfgrowth.comWork with Andrew: ⁠https://ajfgrowth.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Matt Lolli came to Workstand after a long career working in successful bike shops. Matt works with brands and suppliers who want to use Workstand technology and services to support local bike shops in growing sales and better serve their customers.Here's a high-level overview of Brand & Supplier services that we'll be discussing in detail later in the episode. Why do brands and suppliers choose to engage with us? What is in it for merchants? Catalog EnrichmentCornerstone of our service - adds products to the Workstand libraryReduces work for dealers - allows them to devote more time to what they're good atFree for brands & suppliersPrice IntegrityUpdates your pricing (MAP + MSRP) across our ecosystem with a single file upload to correct accidental pricing violations Supplier SyncAllows dealers to display an expanded inventory assortment they don't have room to stock, or are sold out of, that is available in a supplier's warehouse. Supplier FulfillmentAllows dealers to capture sales transactions online and pass the fulfillment process to their suppliers.Suppliers get more sales activity out of their existing network of dealers, and by leveraging their logistical excellence, get products into the hands of customers faster & more efficiently.Buy Local NowProduct location integration that connects ready-to-buy consumers on a brand's consumer-facing website with stocking dealers nearby.Retailers need not be a subscribing hosted dealer to be included in the search results (Free BLN Accounts) Buy Local Now PROWe offer brands a twice daily report that shares dealer's stocking levels down to the SKU level (QOH). Partner PagesWorkstand can build marketing campaigns using a brand's assets to promote and amplify product launch, national campaign style sales, evergreen brand pages, and more.Wrap upHow can brands and suppliers get involved? Email matt.l@workstand.comWhat should individual merchants do if they work with a brand that isn't working with us yet but should be? Tell the brands to reach out to Matt!Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.

Ready to stay ahead in the ever-evolving roofing industry? Today, host Dave Sullivan speaks with Jon Gardner from Owens Corning for an eye-opening conversation you won't want to miss! Discover how the pandemic turbocharged technology adoption and transformed what homeowners expect from contractors. Jon shares how Owens Corning is leading the way with investments in contractor education, cutting-edge technology, and business audits through Owens Corning University. Tune in as they break down the top growth drivers for contractors: warranties, insights, resources, technology, and training, and reveal why operational excellence, financial know-how, and lightning-fast lead response are the keys to thriving in today's competitive market. Don't miss these actionable insights to future-proof your roofing business!What you'll hear in this episode:Significant changes in the roofing industry over the past five years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemicShifts in homeowner expectations for faster, more transparent service and seamless communicationIncreasing role of private equity in the roofing industry and its impact on efficiency and technology adoptionOwens Corning's investments in resources and tools to support contractors, including educational programsImportance of fundamentals in roofing application and operational excellence for contractorsCritical role of speed in lead response and its effect on closing salesThe roofing industry's reputation, including its high ranking in customer complaints despite positive reviewsThe comprehensive training and audit programs offered by Owens Corning to help contractors improve their businessesKey factors for contractors to prioritize for growth including warranties, insights, resources, technology, and ongoing trainingThe necessity of mentorship and continuous education for contractors to adapt and thrive in a competitive marketResources:Owenscorning.com (Go to the Pro section to become a contractor rewards member!)Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://youtu.be/N7F2wJVbfwkBe sure to subscribe, like, and comment!Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-callInterested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/planThe Roofer Show's Vetted SponsorsCheck out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow. Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month's service: theroofercoach.com/ruby. Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/. Use promo code “DAVE50” to get 50% off your first month's service.

Send us a textWelcome back to another episode of Grad Chat Chronicles on Petey Podcast, where we spotlight the stories, successes, and community impact of our incredible graduates — and the organizations shaping our neighborhoods.Today's episode is both illuminating and empowering. We're diving into the world of residential electricity with a behind-the-scenes look at one of the electric company suppliers that's doing more than just keeping the lights on.This company isn't just powering homes — they're helping power Friday Night Lights at Ely Stadium as a proud corporate sponsor!We're thrilled to be joined by James Smith, Chief Marketing Officer of APG&E, along with one of our very own graduates, Brittany Turner — now leading the charge as the company's Digital Marketing Manager. APG&E, an energy provider out of Texas and serving states nationwide, including Ohio, with service in Elyria.In this episode, we'll explore how electric service really works, the choices homeowners have, and practical tips to lower your monthly bill — all straight from the experts.So whether you're curious about your own energy options or just love hearing about local success stories, you won't want to miss this one.Let's flip the switch and get started! Learn more about APG&E here: www.apge.comIt's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, supplier inclusion is facing new scrutiny - and new urgency. In this insightful episode of Cooperatively Speaking, Titus Martin sits down with three  respected voices in the field—Reginald Layton, Ralph Moore, and Jesse Moore—for a candid and actionable discussion on advancing supplier diversity in higher education and beyond.Together, they explore the business case for supplier inclusion, strategies for navigating today's complex legal environment, and practical steps institutions can take to strengthen their programs. You'll also hear how colleges and universities can leverage their E&I membership to drive meaningful impact in this space.E&I Hosts: Titus Martin, Executive Director of ESG, E&I Cooperative Services Guest: Reginald Layton, RGMA Chief Technology Officer and former Vice President for Supplier Diversity and Supply Chain Sustainability at Johnson Controls International; Ralph Moore, Founder & President of RGMA and a Supplier Diversity Advisory Council member; Jesse Moore, (Retired) Architect of the Purdue University's Supplier Diversity ProgramCooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast.Contact UsHave questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at podcast@eandi.org. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Send us a textListen to our July Best Practices panel this week on Bicycle Retail Radio.The NBDA is holding quarterly forum style meetings on Retailer & Supplier Best Practices. The NBDA wishes to unite industry experts in a panel discussion to circulate best practices to align the industry. During the meeting, the NBDA organized panel will talk through an agenda on various topics.Support the show

Nick Broom, the chairman of Petersfield Men's Shed, tells Mike Waddington about their latest projects and that they have become an official supplier to the National Trust, which is a commitment to quality. The Men's Shed offers all kinds of activities and is aimed at making good use of time and improving skills, as well as working together to overcome social isolation, loneliness and depression. More at Petersfield Men’s Shed – A space for men to connect, converse and create. located in the car park by the Festival Hall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of The Big Bid Theory, host Bill Culhane speaks with Stephen Hetzel, CEO and Co-Founder of Beacon Bid and BidPrime, about the state of procurement and e-procurement following NIGP Forum 2025 in Denver.Stephen shares Beacon Bid's progress since 2022, lessons from the conference, and how agencies can simplify bidding, engage more suppliers, and improve project outcomes. The conversation covers balancing agency and supplier needs, strategies to connect with local vendors, and best practices for e-procurement implementation, including the City of Houston's rapid go-live.The Big Bid Theory is powered by Beacon Bid and BidPrime.Don't forget that the David and Beverly Nash Leadership Award nomination period runs September 1–October 15, with submissions due October 31. Recognize someone making a difference in procurement. Subscribe now for more insights shaping public procurement.Stephen Hetzel bio summary: Stephen Hetzel is the CEO and Co-Founder of Beacon Bid and BidPrime, leading SaaS providers elevating government procurement through efficiency, accessibility, and transparency. For over 15 years, he has driven innovation in procurement technology, overseeing the development and execution of transformative solutions. Stephen has shared his experience through speaking engagements and written articles on business operations and SaaS management. He regularly presents at industry conferences, championing initiatives that lower entry barriers and encourage broader supplier participation in public contracting.

In the second installment of our 3-part KeySource Series on the Pharmacy Podcast Network, Andrew Crawford, VP of Sales & Marketing at KeySource, joins Todd Eury to explore one of the most urgent priorities for regional and national chain pharmacies — supplier alignment as a driver of strategic growth. With NACDS TSE right around the corner, this conversation takes a hard look at the pressures chains face today — from unpredictable PBM reimbursements and restrictive PVA contracts to the operational ripple effects of even a single NDC disruption. At chain scale, where central fill and automation keep thousands of prescriptions moving daily, stability, flexibility, and strategic control are non-negotiable. In this episode, we cover: The State of Chains: How PBM volatility, slim PVA margins, and supply continuity challenges are reshaping priorities. The Shift Toward Supplier Alignment: Why leading chains are moving beyond rigid structures to build strategic, responsive partnerships. How KeySource Supports Chain Growth: From NDC continuity to opportunistic buys, primary award support, and autonomy beyond PVA constraints. Strategic Support Beyond the Product: The downstream impact of supply instability — and how proactive supplier partnerships mitigate risk. Looking Ahead to NACDS TSE: How to turn supplier relationships into a competitive edge. Whether you manage a regional chain or lead procurement for a national brand, this episode unpacks the supplier strategies that can protect your operations, enable growth, and strengthen your competitive position in a volatile market.

In this episode of Brush Busters, coaches Lucas and Chris tackle real letters from painting business owners and share their no-nonsense solutions.From Marcus in Calgary dealing with chunky paint batches to strategies for keeping customers happy while holding suppliers accountable, this episode dives deep into the real-world challenges painters face every day.Whether it's quality control, client communication, or knowing when to push back on a vendor, Lucas and Chris break down practical steps to turn frustrating problems into opportunities to build trust and improve your business.This episode is proudly sponsored by⁠⁠ ⁠DripJobs⁠⁠⁠! The CRM built for painting contractors. Click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use our code GROWTH60 to get a 60 days trial FOR FREE!

Noodles is shrinking, food costs are rising and a tech supplier is laying off staff.

Tune in to hear from Dusty Robotics' Zach Reiss-Davis about their Supplier-led Education Session at BCMC 2025! Their autonomous robot turns digital designs into precise onsite layouts, boosting speed and accuracy for framers, designers, and builders. In this episode, we touch on integration, Dusty's role in framing and pre-manufactured components, and the quick learning curve for crews. Catch this BCMC education preview to gain insight before the session begins! And be sure to join us in Omaha to see the robot in action!

In this episode of The Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis welcomes Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Doug Petillo, Managing Partner at Navigant Ventures, for a compelling discussion on how small businesses can become the supplier of choice in today's disrupted economy. As part of the Survive and Thrive series, the conversation explores the importance of building trust through consistent delivery, avoiding overpromising, managing operational risk, and leveraging certifications like ISO to signal reliability. Doug shares real-world insights on playing both offense and defense in times of uncertainty—highlighting tactics such as strengthening existing customer relationships and securing referrals to open new doors. Whether navigating economic turbulence or seeking sustainable growth, this episode delivers practical strategies for small business leaders to stay resilient and competitive.   Helpful Resources: Stephanie Alexander: 610-613-1854 Email : doug@navigantventures.com  How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and Supply Chain Xchange  bring you this podcast filled with deep industry discussions. We talk to today's top thought innovators, spanning topics across the entire supply chain. Supply Chain in the Fast Lane fast tracks topics you need to know from leaders you want to know.In this Sixth Season of eight episodes, we look at The Top Threats to our Supply ChainsSEASON 6 :Top Supply Chain ThreatsEPISODE 5:  Supplier RiskZach Zacharia, associate professor of supply chain management and director of the Center for Supply Chain Research at Lehigh University, talks about supplier risk and what supply chain managers can do to stay ahead of those risksGuest: Zach Zacharia - associate professor of supply chain management and director of the Center for Supply Chain Research at Lehigh UniversityModerator: Diane Rand, managing editor, Supply Chain XchangeSupply Chain in the Fast Lane is sponsored by:HERE TechnologiesLinksLearn more about CSCMPJoin the CSCMP communityCSCMP's Supply Chain XchangeSubscribe to CSCMP's Supply Chain XchangeSign up for our FREE newslettersListen to our sister podcast, Logistics MattersAdvertise with CSCMP's Supply Chain XchangeJoin the Supply Chain in the Fast Lane team at CSCMP EDGE 2025, October 5-8 at the Gaylord in Washington, D.C. Go to CSCMP.org to find out more.

Link to episode page This week's Cyber Security Headlines – Week in Review is hosted by Rich Stroffolino with guest Nick Espinosa, host, The Deep Dive Radio Show Thanks to our show sponsor, Nudge Security Nudge Security discovers new apps, accounts, and data-sharing in real-time and helps guide employees toward secure behaviors. Instead of trying to control everything, we give IT and security teams the visibility and automation they need to secure the Workforce Edge. All links and the video of this episode can be found on CISO Series.com          

Have you heard the news? Clean beauty is out. Dirty beauty is in. This week on Green Beauty Conversations, Lorraine Dallmeier, Chartered Environmentalist, Biologist and CEO of Formula Botanica, speaks with Stephen Smith, the regenerative entrepreneur behind Nuturn – a pioneering skincare ingredient complex that redefines what it means to be effective, ethical, and elemental. If you've ever questioned whether clean beauty has become too clinical, too sanitised, and too disconnected from nature, then this episode is for you.     Free Resources Free formulation course | Green Beauty Conversations Podcast | Blog | YouTube Socials: Formula Botanica on Instagram | Lorraine Dallmeier on Instagram

You can give people all the resources and training in the world. You can even get them fired up about UX. But let's be real; there will always be times when they simply don't have the time, energy, or skills to do the work themselves.In the past, they'd come to you. And you'd do it for them. But we're trying to get you out of that cycle. If you're going to scale your impact, you can't be the one personally delivering on every single project.That's where a preferred supplier list comes in.Why a Supplier List Is a Strategic AssetIt's tempting to let stakeholders find their own vendors. After all, there's no shortage of freelancers or agencies out there. But this approach risks quality and consistency. Not all suppliers will meet your standards, and some may be overly influenced by the stakeholder who hired them.Instead, create a vetted list of suppliers you trust and make this list easier to use than finding vendors independently. Using your pre-approved list should feel like the obvious choice for everyone involved.When you create, maintain, and make accessible a trusted supplier list, you:Ensure quality: You've already vetted these suppliers. You know they care about user experience and meet your standards.Avoid procurement headaches: Pre-approved suppliers make life easier for your stakeholders. No need to jump through hoops every time they need outside help.Speed things up: With an established list, teams can move quickly. No more weeks spent gathering quotes or drafting RFPs.Keep costs predictable: Many preferred suppliers offer discounted or fixed pricing in return for ongoing work. That saves money and makes budgeting simpler.Expand your capabilities: You can include specialists; people with niche skills like accessibility, SEO, or advanced user research. That fills gaps you and your team may not be able to cover.Maintain strategic control: When you control the list, suppliers know they're accountable to you, not just the individual stakeholder hiring them. That means they'll come to you if something feels off, and they'll uphold your UX principles throughout the project.Make the right choice the easy choice: When your list is well-organized and readily available, teams naturally gravitate toward using it rather than spending time finding their own vendors.What to Look for in Preferred SuppliersIf you're going to stand behind these suppliers, choose carefully.They must get how you work. Your suppliers should follow your expectations and ways of working even when dealing with someone else in the organization.They need to be pre-approved. Work with your procurement team to get them set up in advance. If it's too hard to hire them, stakeholders will just bypass the list.They should understand the politics. A good supplier knows not to say yes to everything just to win favor. They keep you in the loop and help hold the line when a stakeholder pushes for something questionable.You Stay in the Driver's SeatA preferred supplier list doesn't remove you from the picture; it actually keeps you more involved. You're still part of the process, just from a higher level. You're the gatekeeper. The advisor. The one who shapes how UX is delivered, even when you're not the one doing the work.And that's exactly where you want to be.Your Next StepIf you don't already have a supplier list, start small. Identify 2 or 3 people or companies you've worked with before and trust. Add them to a shared Notion page or spreadsheet with their contact info, specialties, and any pre-negotiated rates.Even a rough list is better than leaving stakeholders to guess, or worse still, go their own way.

Let's be honest — square footage and brochure stats won't sell your services. If you've ever left a supplier meeting with a bunch of generic info and zero clarity on how to use it in your marketing… this episode is for you.In episode 2 of the Don't Market Like a Supplier series, we're talking about the five questions to ask your BDM (or supplier contact) that actually matter — and how their answers can shape your content, boost your bottom line, and keep your brand message clear.You'll learn:✅ What booking window data can teach you about your funnel✅ How to identify hidden add-ons to increase commissions✅ How to use supplier trends and spotlight promos to ride the wave✅ Why general info ≠ strong strategy✅ The difference between selling a trip vs. selling your serviceWhether you're new to working with BDMs or ready to level up your conversations, this one will change the way you prep for every supplier interaction moving forward.

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: One Big Beautiful Act impacts with MD Delegate Marc Korman and MD Health Care for All Executive Director Vincent DeMarco: “Could have been worse!” Fall General Assembly Special Session now unlikely. Montgomery County Council considers pilot to become a retail energy supplier to residents. MD Delegate Lorig Charkoudian explains the concept. MoCo Council will vote on a law to allow duplexes/triplexes in single-family-zoned areas. Trayon White wins the DC Ward 8 Special Elections despite pending bribery charges. Analysis from once-Ward 8 candidate Markus Batchelor. Music by Washington DC art-pop rock band, Catscan!

In this episode, I continue my coverage of the THRIVE 25 Conference with a series of interviews from the trade show floor. I spoke with leading suppliers whose products and innovations are helping shape the future of Passive House construction in Australasia. From high-performance windows to advanced ventilation systems, each guest shares their unique contribution to better building. https://www.passivhausassociation.com.au/ 1. Scott Hogan – DEHUM Scott discusses DEHUM's advanced humidity control systems and their role in maintaining optimal indoor environments for Passive House projects. https://dehum.com.au 2. Mark Ristevski – XTour3D Mark introduces XTour3D's cutting-edge 3D scanning solutions for construction, bringing ‘digital twin' technology to the residential market. https://xtour.com.au/ 3. Mike Ward – Australian Glass Group Mike shares insights into high-performance glazing solutions and the importance of energy-efficient glass in Passive House design. https://agg.com.au/ 4. Mark Heyman – Rotho Blaas Mark highlights Rotho Blaas' construction systems, including airtightness and waterproofing. https://www.rothoblaas.com/ 5. Ashley Griffs – BINQ Windows Ashley showcases BINQ's locally manufactured timber, alu-clad, and uPVC windows that meet Passive House standards for thermal performance and security. https://www.binq.com.au/ 6. Adam Socha – Kinzel Industries & Aluplast Adam talks about Kinzel's partnership with Aluplast, delivering innovative uPVC window systems with exceptional energy efficiency and design flexibility. https://www.aluplast.net/eng-int/company/ 7. James Hazelwood – Hygge Windows James presents Hygge Windows' approach to combining aesthetics and performance in window design, tailored for sustainable living. https://hyggewindows.com.au/ 8. Harley Truong – Logikhaus Harley explains Logikhaus' commitment to Passive House certified windows and doors, and their role in delivering high-performance building envelopes. Plus a summary of Harley's conference presentation, proposing how we might report and communicate better about Passive House benefits. https://www.logikhaus.com.au/ Once again, a big thank you to Andy Marlow and Taline Edwards at Envirotecture for making this possible.

This season, we're bringing you a series of mini video podcasts spotlighting the key suppliers to the upholstery trade. Each episode gives you insider info on the latest tools, materials, and innovations to help keep your workshop running smoothly and efficiently.This month, we're chatting with Mirka, makers of high-performance sanding solutions with a difference. Tune in to hear what sets their kit apart (you might also see us trying the tools out

Stephen Grootes speaks to Michael Merchant, key investigator from Open Secrets, about Transnet's recent court victory to stop a Chinese train supplier from selling parts, seeking insights into the backstory behind this development and its potential implications for Transnet's operations, logistics in South Africa, and the broader context of international business dealings in the country's critical infrastructure sectors. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Michael Merchant, Head of investigation from Open Secrets,about Transnet's recent court victory to stop a Chinese train supplier from selling parts, seeking insights into the backstory behind this development and its potential implications for Transnet's operations, logistics in South Africa, and the broader context of international business dealings in the country's critical infrastructure sectors. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Share PLM Podcast, we are joined by Thomas Winden and Kerstin Roulet from T-Systems. Thomas Winden works as Tribe Lead Emerging Business & Innovation at T-Systems. He joined the company in 2012 after eight years in consulting and has since focused on PLM, Agile methodologies, and business development. Since 2022, he has led PLM strategy, partnerships, and portfolio management.Kerstin Roulet is a Change Consultant at T-Systems with a background in PLM and IT. Since joining in 2012, she has specialized in Agile transformation and cultural change, leading initiatives to enhance communication, collaboration, and team dynamics within PLM projects.The conversation explores how T-Systems integrates human-centric methodologies into its PLM projects, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and cultural change as essential elements of success. The company prioritizes helping clients take ownership of their transformation journeys by embedding change management practices into technical implementations. With a clear long-term vision, T-Systems is actively expanding its PLM services beyond traditional industries and regions, positioning itself as a trusted partner in digital product lifecycle transformation. Here are the main themes that emerged:⚉ Organizational Transformation: From Hierarchy to Tribes⚉ “Agile Doing” vs. “Agile Being”⚉ Cultural and Soft‑Skill Enablement⚉ PLM's New Identity at T‑Systems⚉ Insights for PLM Implementers⚉ Customer Ownership in PLM TransformationCONNECT WITH THOMAS AND KERSTIN:⚉ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerstin-roulet-376365147/ ⚉ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-winden/ CONNECT WITH SHARE PLM:⚉ Website: https://shareplm.com/ Join us every month to listen to fascinating interviews, where we cover a wide array of topics, from actionable tips, to personal experiences, to strategies that you can implement into your PLM strategy.If you have an interesting story to share and want to join the conversation, contact us and let's chat. We can't wait to hear from you!

Welcome to the first episode of our brand-new 5-part series: Stop Marketing Like a Supplier In this powerful episode, Kelli Hayes Smith shares the truth behind why so many travel advisors struggle to stand out in a saturated space — and it's not because of lack of effort, it's because of supplier-style marketing.What you'll learn in this episode:Why supplier content doesn't work for building YOUR brandThe big shift you need to make if you want to sell transformation, not transactionsHow you're competing with online booking tools — not other advisorsWhy loud marketing isn't better marketing (and what to do instead)The skincare analogy you'll never forget Whether you're still using supplier content or wondering why your posts aren't converting, this episode will help you see your business in a whole new light.Don't miss next week's episode: 5 Questions to Ask Your BDM That Actually Matter

Information is China's most potent weapon after Operation Sindoor in shaping not only the India-Pakistan narrative but also global perceptions of the French military-industrial complex. China's focus is on asserting itself as a credible arms supplier in a market long dominated by the West. Watch Sana Hashmi explain how China is waging information war against Rafale.

- Investors Like the Potential of Robotaxis - BMW Just Eked Out Q2 Gain - Japanese Automakers Cut Prices of Exported Vehicles - Ford and Stellantis Squeeze Their Suppliers - Hyundai Reveals Performance Electric Sedan - EVs Hold Value Better in China - Mazda CX-5 Getting 1st Hybrid - Maserati Gives Its Supercar a New Name

- Investors Like the Potential of Robotaxis - BMW Just Eked Out Q2 Gain - Japanese Automakers Cut Prices of Exported Vehicles - Ford and Stellantis Squeeze Their Suppliers - Hyundai Reveals Performance Electric Sedan - EVs Hold Value Better in China - Mazda CX-5 Getting 1st Hybrid - Maserati Gives Its Supercar a New Name

Oleg Kuzmenkov is the founder of Seller Assistant, a tool trusted by Amazon wholesale and arbitrage sellers to analyze price lists, check restrictions, and make faster sourcing decisions. His goal is to help sellers avoid bad buys and scale with confidence. In This Episode: [00:20] Introducing Oleg Kuzmenkov of Seller Assistant. [00:30] The topic & bonus. [03:15] Does it sell? [05:40] Can you sell? [07:40] Best practice from being ungated to selling. [10:15] Ungated services. [12:10] What date is crucial? [15:39] Competition. [21:15] Variation. [26:20] Is it profitable? [27:54] Supplier Analyzer by Seller Assistant. [28:30] Tips on knowing you are not scammed by the “supplier”.   Guest Links and References: Website: https://sellerassistant.app Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakuzmenkov/ Linkedin profile: http://Linkedin.com/in/oakuzmenkov Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sellerassistantapp     Links and References:   Wizards of Amazon:  https://www.wizardsofecom.com/   Wizards of Amazon Courses:  www.wizardsofecom.com/academy   Wizards of Amazon Meetup:  https://www.meetup.com/South-Florida-FBA/   Wizards of Amazon on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/WizardsofAmazon/   Wizards of Amazon on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/wizardsofecom/

The GBTA Convention annually brings together thousands of professionals in person to connect, learn, grow and do business for the world's $1.4 trillion business travel industry. So what can attendees expect at the upcoming GBTA Convention 2025 in Denver, July 21-23, and how can they make the most of their experience? In this podcast, GBTA Board President, Mark Cuschieri, and travel supplier, Treasurer of the GBTA Board of Directors, Kevin Sullivan, join GBTA CEO Suzanne Neufang to preview and discuss what's new, noteworthy and not-to-be-missed for attendees heading to this year's Convention.   Music track is Space Jazz by Kevin MacLeod  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License 

At the heart of The Prophets' vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here What does it take to build trust between OEMs and suppliers — and why does it matter now more than ever?Dr. Angela Johnson, partner at Plante Moran and the new owner of the Working Relations Index (WRI), joins the show to walk us through the 2025 results and what they reveal about the automotive industry's most critical, and often overlooked, business relationships.This year's survey shows the biggest gap between the top and bottom OEMs since 2007. Toyota, Honda, and GM improved their scores, while Stellantis, Ford, and Nissan declined, widening the divide. Angela explains that this shift wasn't because the bottom three necessarily got worse, but because the top three pulled ahead by leveraging long-standing relationships and adopting collaborative practices when it mattered most.Internal alignment was another differentiator. Toyota, Honda, and GM worked across functions — purchasing, engineering, quality — while others struggled with silos and regional disconnects that left suppliers frustrated and confused.Culture came up again and again. Angela introduces the concept of “embedded behaviors” — leadership habits that trace back to a person's first real boss. These behaviors stick, often for decades, and shape how companies interact with suppliers today. In GM's case, even with ongoing issues like engineering changes and volume swings, suppliers recognized effort. They saw transparency, and it made all the difference.Then there's Ford. The team made a well-intentioned decision to outsource parts of purchasing to India, but didn't account for how it would affect supplier communication. It created more confusion than clarity, and it showed up in their WRI scores.One thing's clear: good relationships drive real results. Angela shares how WRI scores have a measurable connection to financial performance, especially for OEMs like Toyota, where strong supplier ties align closely with same-year earnings.The takeaway? It's not just about KPIs. It's how people behave. If you want better results, measure relationships and take them seriously.Whether you're a global OEM or a small supplier, the fundamentals are the same: communicate, treat people with respect, and stop thinking of relationships as the “soft stuff.”Because in this industry, they're anything but.Themes discussed in this episode:The widening trust gap between top and bottom OEMs in the 2025 WRI resultsHow strong supplier relationships directly impact financial performanceWhy responsiveness, communication, and basic “enabling behaviors” still matter mostHow internal silos and regional misalignment weaken supplier trustHow leadership behaviors are passed down across generations in the industryWhy measuring relationships—not just KPIs—is critical to long-term successThe hidden risks of outsourcing without proper communication planningThe cultural habits OEMs fall back on during times of stressFeatured on this episode: Name: Dr. Angela JohnsonTitle: Supplier Relations Analytics Principal at Plante MoranAbout: Dr. Angela leads supplier relations analytics at Plante Moran, where she manages the Working Relations Index® survey and

Recent headlines about price wars and intense competition in the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market have sparked investor concerns about the industry's future, with many worrying about a race to the bottom. But what's really going on behind the scenes? In this episode, Louis Chua, investment analyst at Julius Baer, examines the key dynamics, opportunities, and challenges in the Chinese EV sector, and what they mean for the market's long-term growth prospects.(01:00) - : The “price war” – a race to the bottom? (00:00) - Chapter 2 (03:45) - : Chinese automakers making waves internationally (00:00) - Chapter 4 (04:45) - : Is the Chinese domestic EV market slowing? (00:00) - Chapter 6 (06:00) - : Innovation in Chinese EVs (00:00) - Chapter 8 (07:53) - : The “zero-mileage used cars” problem (00:00) - Chapter 10 (09:55) - : Supplier payment reforms (00:00) - Chapter 12 (10:30) - : Key risks and catalysts to watch

Sagi Eliyahu welcomes Tania Seary, Founder of Procurious, to discuss the role of procurement in today's dynamic business environment. With decades of experience as a procurement entrepreneur, Tania shares why now is the moment for ops leaders to work hand in hand with procurement, prioritize supplier collaboration and embrace AI as a strategic tool, not just a back-office fix.From AI adoption to cross-functional alignment, the conversation offers a forward-looking take on how procurement and ops can partner to drive enterprise performance.Key Takeaways:(03:02) Procurement must shift to agile, bite-sized, community-based learning methods.(06:12) Encourage teams to test AI weekly and share actionable use cases.(10:15) Automation frees teams to build relationships and identify real-world inefficiencies.(14:10) Supplier trust and relationships are essential, even with modern technology.(16:03) Learn enough about AI to ask smart questions and assess risks.(18:41) Staying in the business flow is key to career longevity.(22:22) You are the constant in your career — take ownership of your growth.Resources Mentioned:Tania Searyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/taniaseary/Procurious | LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/procurious/Procurious | Websitehttps://www.procurious.com/This episode is brought to you by Tonkean.Tonkean is the operating system for business operations and is the enterprise standard for process orchestration. It provides businesses with the building blocks to orchestrate any process, with no code or change management required. Contact us at tonkean.com to learn how you can build complex business processes. Fast.#Operations #BusinessOperations

Every year Australian Hiker touches base with suppliers, importers and manufacturers of hiking equipment to find out what new and exciting products are on the market and well as to see how the industry is trending. Gill and I were originally heading to the Industry Trade show in March of this year but due to a cyclone that show was cancelled. Over the past 7 weeks we have been catching up with five Australian based suppliers to find out about what gear has been recently released and what we can expect in the coming months. At the end of these supplier interviews I briefly discuss where I see the outdoor gear industry heading. www.australianhiker.com.au   Australian Hiker can also be found on our various social media platforms Australian Hiker Facebook Australian Hiker Instagram Australian Hiker Twitter Australian Hiker Threads Australian Hiker Youtube

PRC:  QUIET REMARKS ABOUT ITS IRAN OIL SUPPLIER AND WEAPONS CUSTOMER, JACK BURHAM,FDD 1922

TOPIC: Supplier Relationships PANEL: Dave Andrea, Plante Moran; Lindsay Brooke, Industry Expert; Gary Vasilash, shinymetalboxes.net; John McElroy, Autoline.tv

A former All-Star currently pitching for the Reds has been accused of being the drug supplier for the late Tyler Skaggs. Correspondent Gethin Coolbaugh reports.

Sometimes the most damning evidence about an industry or an organization comes from the inside. In this second installment of “Buy: The Way…To Purposeful Procurement's” deep dive into supplier tactics, two former supply executives continue exposing the ins and outs of the supplier playbook they used on procurement when they were on the other side of the fence.  Bob Schreiner, former CIA section chief and G4s operations executive, explains how security guard service providers can obscure margin increases within seemingly reasonable wage adjustments for officers. He also exposes the “position rate variance” tactic, where suppliers charge premium rates for senior guards to fill junior positions, and also how disasters can become margin-grabbing bonanzas for suppliers. Keith Robinson, one of only 150 board-certified entomologists working commercially in North America, exposes seasonal billing schemes in the pest control industry, where compliance rates plummet in colder months, yet billing continues unchanged. Perhaps most shocking is his revelation that 80-90 percent of fogging and fumigation services are often completely avoidable. These true stories from industry insiders point to a troubling reality: procurement is sometimes so focused on up-front savings that they inadvertently signal to suppliers exactly how to game the system. In effect, procurement ends up creating the perfect conditions for the kind of post-contract chicanery that can create significant cost increases for the business over the years, without any change in service scope or delivery.    Links: Bob Schreiner on LinkedIn Keith Robinson on LinkedIn Rich Ham on LinkedIn Learn more at FineTuneUs.com

- Musk Regrets Attacking Trump - GM Invests $4 Billion To Boost U.S. Production - Ford Calls on Canada To Repeal EV Mandate - BMW Shares Next-Gen EV Details - Xpeng Develops In-House Chips for Autonomous Driving - Chinese OEMs Agree to Speed Up Supplier Payments - Chinese Car Exports Slow - Toyota Develops Liquid-Hydrogen Le Mans Race Car - VW Considers Small Electric Van

- Musk Regrets Attacking Trump - GM Invests $4 Billion To Boost U.S. Production - Ford Calls on Canada To Repeal EV Mandate - BMW Shares Next-Gen EV Details - Xpeng Develops In-House Chips for Autonomous Driving - Chinese OEMs Agree to Speed Up Supplier Payments - Chinese Car Exports Slow - Toyota Develops Liquid-Hydrogen Le Mans Race Car - VW Considers Small Electric Van

Have we become too complacent when it comes to ordering online? Its 2025 and yet, somehow and for whatever reason this online supplier is asking for four forms of order verification and signatures upon delivery for regular, everyday plumbing and hvac material orders lol! Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Apple, like all successful companies, became successful by maximizing profits and minimizing costs. However, to achieve this, they sold their soul to America's biggest adversary: the Chinese Communist Party. The story of how this transpired is chronicled in exceptional detail by my guest, Patrick McGee, who joins me to discuss his book “Apple in China: The Capture of the World's Greatest Company” and explains whether or not he believes Trump can return manufacturing to America. - - -  Today's Sponsor: Balance of Nature - Go to https://balanceofnature.com and use promo code KLAVAN for 35% off your first order PLUS get a free bottle of Fiber and Spice.

Much like the classic plot twist in old thriller movies where the characters realize the threat is coming from inside the house, the most revealing insights about supplier tactics are coming from inside Fine Tune's own house in this eye-opening tenth episode of Buy: The Way…To Purposeful Procurement.    Co-host Rich Ham was initially reluctant to tap into his own team's expertise for this podcast series, but the guests' insight and insider knowledge proved too valuable not to share.  In this episode, Philip and Rich interview two former supplier-side executives – Alex Carlson and Angie Claeys – who are now working on the opposite side of the fence at Fine Tune, and therefore perfectly positioned to divulge the very tactics they once used against procurement teams. They are, indeed, “poachers turned game wardens.” First, Alex, a former CBRE executive and Wells Fargo procurement leader, explains how janitorial service providers deliberately underbid with limited scopes to help procurement “check the box” on savings goals. Likewise, he's seen elevator maintenance providers bill for preventative maintenance that is never performed. Just because a category of spend is managed on paper doesn't mean it's being actively managed where it counts the most, on the ground. Similarly, in the second half of the episode, Angie Claeys, former VP of Operations at Aramark, lays out the uniform industry's playbook (a notoriously complex category). Here too procurement has to watch out for “presumptive” billing that can cost the business unnecessarily if procurement isn't on top of it.  Alex and Angie's experiences on the supplier side point to a troubling dynamic: procurement's incentive structures actually encourage these nefarious supplier behaviors and, by not focusing more on ongoing cost management, procurement is inadvertently signaling to suppliers precisely how they can ‘game the system.' This episode, part one in a two-part series full of insider insights, provides an unfiltered look at the consequences of half-hearted spend management and makes a powerful case for extending procurement's influence beyond the contract. Stay tuned for part two, where Bob Schreiner and Keith Robinson expose similar tactics in security services and pest control.   Links: Alex Carlson on LinkedIn Angie Claeys on LinkedIn Rich Ham on LinkedIn Learn more at FineTuneUs.com  

Are you looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly form of natural medicine? In this episode, we'll learn about Boiron, a firm that manufactures homeopathic medications and is regarded as the industry leader. We'll also learn about Boiron's history, the highest manufacturing standards it has adopted, and how it promotes homeopathy as a kind, environmentally conscious, and all-encompassing form of medicine. Christophe Merville, D. Pharm is the director of education and pharmacy development at Boiron, a world leader in homeopathic medicines. In this position, he creates training programs, both online and in print, for pharmacists and retailers on homeopathic medicines used to treat common health conditions. Before his more than 30-year career with Boiron, Dr. Merville was a university hospital pharmacist in France's Loire Valley where he obtained three years of clinical experience. Born in France, Dr. Merville completed his pharmacy doctorate in Nantes in 1985. He is a sought-after expert on homeopathic medicines and their practical uses for consumers as well as medical experts, and a frequent guest on radio programs across the U.S.  Dr. Merville has also co-authored several published works and has presented homeopathic topics at scientific meetings. Check out these episode highlights: 01:50 - Christophe's personal journey of how he first became acquainted with homeopathy 13:25 - The two gentlemen that founded Boiron 19:37 - Do the remedies really stop working if you touch them? 26:52 - What's involved in the manufacturing process in Boiron 40:41 - The Homeopathic Research Institute 47:22 - Single Remedies versus Combination Remedies 50:17 - How many remedies does Boiron have in stock 51:22 - Is it permissible to use homeopathic treatments containing controlled substances such as opium? Connect with Christophe  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophe-merville-258a9710/ If you would like to support the Homeopathy Hangout Podcast, please consider making a donation by visiting www.EugenieKruger.com and click the DONATE button at the top of the site. Every donation about $10 will receive a shout-out on a future episode.   Join my Homeopathy Hangout Podcast Facebook community here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HelloHomies   Here is the link to my free 30-minute Homeopathy@Home online course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqBUpxO4pZQ&t=438s   Upon completion of the course - and if you live in Australia - you can join my Facebook group for free acute advice (you'll need to answer a couple of questions about the course upon request to join): www.facebook.com/groups/eughom

"It's the whole totality of the experience and how we treat our customers to show that they're valued.”Eric Wulf, CEO of the International Carwash Association (ICA), and ICA Research Director Bob Klein discuss the findings of ICA's 2025 Q1 Pulse Report, covering the health of the industry, customer satisfaction, and the balance between price and wash value for car wash customers.Top 5 Episode Highlights:The Health of the Consumer Drives the Health of the Industry – Eric and Bob discuss how customer sentiment and behavior shape industry growth, with pricing dissatisfaction often offset by strong perceptions of value—especially among subscription customers.The Price vs. Value Perception – Car wash owners must recognize the emotional side of pricing and focus on the totality of the customer experience to show value. The conversation draws insights from Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) like Chick-fil-A, where customer engagement plays a key role in perceived value.Subscribers Who Become Transactors: A Retention Opportunity – 54% of former members continue washing their vehicles at the car wash where they previously had a membership, providing an opportunity for operators to re-engage and build long-term loyalty.Loyalty Programs: A Disconnection Between Customers and Operators – The Pulse Report has asked about loyalty for nine years, and customers consistently cite loyalty programs as a key retention driver. However, operators do not prioritize them, signaling a missed opportunity to strengthen customer relationships.Industry Growth & Supplier Outlook – Projections for year-end growth increased slightly from 5% to 6%, with 6 in 10 retailers increasing prices in 2024. Meanwhile, supplier optimism has softened, with forecasted growth of 5%, and their top concerns remain hiring, rising costs, and employee retention. To counteract these challenges, suppliers are investing in training and helping car wash owners enhance customer value.Eric and Bob begin the conversation by examining the overall health of the car wash industry, which is closely tied to consumer sentiment. They emphasize that while customers may resist price increases, strong value perception—especially among subscribers—helps mitigate dissatisfaction.The discussion then shifts to how car wash owners should interpret the Pulse Report's price/value findings. Eric and Bob stress that customer experience is in the operator's control. They highlight how Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), like Chick-fil-A, focus on hospitality and engagement to reinforce customer loyalty—a model the car wash industry can learn from.Bob also references an article he authored in the 2025 Q1 issue of Car Wash Magazine, which explores the five key principles used by the QSR industry to enhance the value proposition and customer experience.The episode also covers the behavior of subscribers who become transactors, noting that 54% of former members continue to use the car wash where they had a subscription. This presents a valuable opportunity for operators to create a dialogue with past members and encourage repeat business.For the past nine years, the Pulse Report has surveyed both customers and operators about loyalty strategies. The data shows that customers strongly value loyalty programs, yet operators do not prioritize them, highlighting a gap in retention efforts.On the growth and supplier side, there is a slight uptick in year-end growth projections from 5% to 6%, and 6 in 10 retailers increased prices in 2024. Looking ahead, the Q2 issue of Car Wash Magazine will explore 12 key factors businesses should consider before implementing price increases.Supplier sentiment, however, is less optimistic, with a softening outlook despite a projected 5% increase. The top three concerns for suppliers remain hiring, rising costs, and employee retention. To stay ahead, suppliers are focusing on training initiatives and working to help car wash operators deliver stronger customer value.