Claim OwnershipDriven by DCKAP
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Conversations with industry experts, tech leaders and masters in e-commerce that reveal the secrets of their success, and the most important lessons they learned while creating an impact with their business.
97 Episodes
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Before most distributors had even heard the word ecommerce, Paul Gatens was already building it. Now, as Vice President of Global Sales at ECI Software Solutions — Paul brings a rare, ground-level perspective on why electrical, plumbing, and HVAC distributors are still having the same conversations about ecommerce adoption that the office products industry was having 20 years ago. In this episode, he gets honest about what's holding distributors back, what's actually working for the ones who are growing, and why the gap between where distributors are and where they need to be is closing faster than most realize.From the critical role of ERP integration in any successful ecommerce business strategy, to the very real ways AI is helping distributors act on their data, Paul makes the case that the online business opportunity in front of distributors right now is massive, as long as they're willing to move. If you're a distributor trying to figure out where to start in B2B ecommerce, what to prioritize, or how to get your team bought in, this conversation is for you.
What does the future of electrical distribution look like — and how can distributors of every size prepare? In this episode, Karthik Chidambaram sits down with Paul Kennedy, President & CEO of DSG and current Board Chair of NAED. They dig into the data center boom driving demand through 2045, why speed of delivery is now more critical than price, and how artificial intelligence is reshaping everything from daily operations to workforce development.Paul also shares how NAED is equipping distributors — large and small — to compete with the AI impact in a rapidly changing landscape, from leveraging AI Automation and product training programs to championing women in the industry and developing the next generation of distribution talent. This conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss.
How does a 103-year-old packaging distributor double its revenue to $1 billion in just four years? In this episode of Driven by DCKAP, Rob Onorato, CEO of Shorr Packaging, reveals the strategic decisions and leadership philosophy that transformed the company from a $450 million regional player into a billion-dollar national distributor. Rob shares the secret behind his first-year strategy with the company: asking questions and listening to customers, reps, and employees. After taking on the role of CEO, he navigated a cyber attack within days, followed by a multi-million dollar failed experiment—proving why "think big, start small, move fast" isn't just a mantra, but a proven framework for scaling distribution businesses.Rob shares unique insights on building high-performance teams by recruiting top distribution talent from outside the packaging industry, creating an ESOP culture that drives employee ownership and accountability, and why their "feet on the street" approach prioritizes customer relationships over transactional sales. Tune in to a conversation that offers practical lessons on scaling businesses, building high-performance teams, navigating crises, and turning expensive mistakes into sustainable growth strategies.
Discover how Grainger, one of the world's largest industrial distributors, built competitive advantage with data infrastructure. In this episode of Driven by DCKAP, Brian Walker, Chief Product Officer, reveals how Grainger transformed from 50% branch-based operations to over 90% digital business through strategic investments in custom software, data modeling, and AI implementation. Learn about their approach to the build vs. buy decision, how they're leveraging artificial intelligence and data analysis across operations, and why "the thing we make is data" became central to their distribution strategy.Brian shares insights on creating information advantage in distribution, lessons from investing too early in computer vision technology, building a learning organization, and the future of self-service in industrial procurement. Whether you're a distribution leader navigating digital transformation, a product manager evaluating technology investments, or a B2B professional interested in AI applications, this conversation on business intelligence, analytics, data management, and more, offers practical frameworks for competing in the age of AI.
As 2025 comes to a close, join our host Karthik Chidambaram for a special year-end reflection on the Driven by DCKAP podcast.In this episode, Karthik looks back at the incredible conversations we've had this year—the insights shared by our guests, the lessons learned along the way, and some of the moments that made this season truly memorable.A Milestone to Celebrate - We're thrilled to have crossed 2,000 subscribers! This achievement is a testament to the power of our community and the value you find in these conversations. To every viewer and listener who has engaged with our content—thank you. Your support drives us forward.Looking Ahead to 2026 - The new season is already taking shape, and we can't wait to share what's in store. Expect more thought-provoking conversations, industry insights, and stories from leaders who are shaping the future of distribution and B2B commerce.From our team to yours—Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
What's the difference between a public servant and a politician? Former Border States CEO and North Dakota Lieutenant Governor Tammy Miller doesn't hold back in this raw conversation about leadership, loss, and what really matters. From running a major electrical distribution company for nearly 30 years to losing a governor's race while her sister battled cancer, Tammy shares the unglamorous truth about transitioning from the boardroom to politics. She's now channeling her energy into semiconductor manufacturing with SkyWater Technologies, raising $75 million for a military museum, and championing AI to eliminate what she calls "mind numbing, soul sucking jobs." Plus, why she believes being "fit for duty" isn't just about exercise—it's about showing up for the work that matters.
From working on a dairy farm at age 10 to leading a major distribution company, Paul Kennedy's path to the C-suite is anything but typical. In this episode of the Driven by DCKAP podcast, Paul shares how he went from Navy intelligence analyst to plumber to President & CEO of DSG—all without a college degree. His secret? Curiosity, surrounding himself with people smarter than him, and being discovered by mentors who saw potential he didn't see in himself.Paul opens up about transforming DSG's growth from reactive to strategic, his unique approach to spotting talent (hint: it may have something to do with how fast someone walks), and why meeting people where they are is essential to great leadership. He also touches on DSG’s approach to cultivating new talent in the industry, by offering scholarships for aspiring tradespeople and supporting Moorhead Career Academy's distribution and transportation track, giving high schoolers real exposure to careers they might never have considered. Whether you're leading a team, building a business, or navigating your own unconventional career path, Paul's insights on intentional growth, delegation, and letting go of what no longer serves you will challenge how you think about success.
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!
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