jobTopia with Tony Moore

Discover Maka, the Ready to Drink Wheatgrass Superfood Functional Beverage, perfect for food enthusiasts. Maka is more than just a drink; it's a Public Benefit Corporation committed to donating 1% of its proceeds to support clean water initiatives, such as Surf Rider and the Nature Conservancy. This unique beverage combines Wheatgrass with Yerba Mate and its cousin, Guayusa, creating a truly exceptional blend. While educating consumers about Wheatgrass can be challenging, Maka boasts an impressive 99% conversion rate once people sample it. With only 10 grams of sugar from fruit juice and Blue Agave, Maka stands out by avoiding Stevia or Monk fruit additives. Loaded with essential nutrients like Vitamin A and antioxidants, Maka contains just 90 milligrams of caffeine, a far cry from the 240 milligrams found in a medium Starbucks coffee. Available at Sprouts now, Maka has plans for a nationwide rollout in 2023 and has recently made its debut at Gelsons and Bristol Farms in Southern California. When it comes to sampling, Maka's ambassadors are incredibly effective, often selling 7-12 cans per session, with some achieving an impressive 50 cans sold. The brand is actively expanding its sampling team, seeking out trusted ambassadors who share a genuine passion for Maka's product and can represent it authentically. One of their main challenges is finding natural brand ambassadors who align with their values and mission. Maka's marketing strategy has evolved to prioritize face-to-face demos over top-of-the-funnel marketing and social advertising. Looking forward, their innovation plan includes exploring new and exciting flavors to expand their product line. Season 3, Episode 53: Maka: Website Linkedin Facebook Instagram Podcast Spotify TikTok Connect with Brian Connect with Tony About me and my mission and the podcast: Are you looking for a fun and light-hearted podcast to discover unique brands and learn about the people and strategies successful companies are implementing in the CPG and Food and Beverage Industry?  The brands featured here take us into the world of innovation, sustainability, good for you, lifestyle, QSR, Foodservice, Distribution, DTC, Club, and more. I am a fun-loving business leader, podcaster, husband, dad, cyclist, and Convention of States volunteer in my spare time. My mission is to discover the people and ideas behind these different, better, and special companies.    Entrepreneurs and CEOs, are you: Searching for distributor or broker partners?  Actively prospecting commercial buyers to gain more points of distribution? Searching for the right person to add to the team? My Direct Response Marketing Service attracts exactly what you need to help your brand thrive and grow.  Here is a NOVEL approach to ATTRACT distributors, buyers, and people (DEMO)   Contact me: Tony@timpl.com Follow me on LinkedIn: Different, Better, Special Brands Join Our Community Music from Uppbeat and ZapSplat https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/get-the-funk-in License code: SF3WUKBUJQULFHXE TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | LINKEDIN PAGE | LINKEDIN GROUP

Welcome to another awesome episode of Winning at Work where we explore the world of culinary innovation, entertainment, and education. In today's episode, we're diving into Truffle Shuffle, the extraordinary live-streaming experiential business that empowers you to "unleash your inner master chef". Join us as we embark on a culinary journey with Chef Jason McKinney, the CEO of Truffle Shuffle.  Vision and Innovation Our journey begins with Jack Clifford, a newspaperman with a unique vision for the Food Network. The question arises: Why do we watch food entertainment, only to be left yearning to replicate it ourselves? Chef Jason McKinney: That's where Truffle Shuffle comes in. We believe that the magic of food should be shared and experienced firsthand. We're taking entertainment to the next level by live-streaming culinary experiences, empowering you to become the master chef you've always wanted to be. Livestreaming Revolution Livestreaming has become a powerful tool in the digital age. But why should people care about live streaming in 2023, especially when it comes to cooking? Chef Jason McKinney: Livestreaming offers a dynamic and engaging way to learn. It's not just about watching; it's about participating. At Truffle Shuffle, you can interact with the chef and fellow participants, creating a learning environment like no other. Behind the Scenes How does Truffle Shuffle manage to create an immersive experience? What's the secret behind the livestream magic? Chef Jason McKinney: It's all about creating an engaging atmosphere. All the tools seamlessly plug into Zoom, allowing us to add music, sound effects, and captivating visuals. And yes, you heard it right – our livestream studios are inside shipping containers! Community and Transformation Beyond the cooking, there seems to be a sense of community at Truffle Shuffle. How do you foster this connection between chefs and guests? Jack Clifford: The bond between chefs and guests is akin to what you see with Peloton. It's about shared experiences, accomplishments, and a common passion for culinary artistry. From "Meal Kit" to "Experiential Company" Truffle Shuffle is evolving beyond being known as a "meal kit" company. Could you share more about this transformation? Chef Jason McKinney: We're transitioning into an "experiential company." It's about more than just ingredients; it's about creating unforgettable culinary memories and connections. Try It! Incorporating Livestreaming into Your Business For our listeners who own service-based businesses, how can they leverage live streaming to engage and connect with their customers? Jack Clifford: It's simple – invite your customers to join you, share your upcoming plans, and ask for their insights. Spotlight your customers and build a strong community around your brand. And there you have it – an insightful journey into the world of Truffle Shuffle, where entertainment, education, and community converge. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chef Jason McKinney and Jack Clifford for sharing their culinary vision with us. As you explore your own culinary passions, remember that the kitchen is not just a place for food; it's a canvas for creativity, connection, and transformation. Until next time, keep shuffling those truffles and unleashing your inner master chef! Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Keep Winning at Work!  Season 3, Episode 48: Truffle Shuffle: Website Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube Connect with Jason Connect with Tony About me and my mission and the podcast: Are you looking for a fun and light-hearted podcast to discover unique brands and learn about the people and strategies successful companies are implementing in the CPG and Food and Beverage Industry?  The brands featured here take us into the world of innovation, sustainability, good for you, lifestyle, QSR, Foodservice, Distribution, DTC, Club, and more. I am a fun-loving business leader, podcaster, husband, dad, cyclist, and Convention of States volunteer in my spare time. My mission is to discover the people and ideas behind these different, better, and special companies.    Entrepreneurs and CEOs, are you: Searching for distributor or broker partners?  Actively prospecting commercial buyers to gain more points of distribution? Searching for the right person to add to the team? My Direct Response Marketing Service attracts exactly what you need to help your brand thrive and grow.  Here is a NOVEL approach to ATTRACT distributors, buyers, and people (DEMO)   Contact me: Tony@timpl.com Follow me on LinkedIn: Different, Better, Special Brands Join Our Community Music from Uppbeat and ZapSplat https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/get-the-funk-in License code: SF3WUKBUJQULFHXE TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | LINKEDIN PAGE | LINKEDIN GROUP

Welcome to W@W for Foodies and Founders. Today, Adam Kroener, CEO and Co-Founder of Carbliss, the revolutionary cocktail-in-a-can brand with its zero-carb, zero-sugar, and low-calorie beverages, joins us as we explore the power of focus, the art of successful expansion, and the impact of strategic decision-making on economic success. In this episode, you will witness the extraordinary journey of Carbliss, a brand that proves the immense power of focus and strategic decision-making. Their commitment to providing a healthier cocktail option, supporting their partners' success, and leveraging valuable data has catapulted them to the top of the Ready-to-Drink cocktail market. As you embark on your own entrepreneurial endeavors, remember the lessons from Carbliss Drinks, and always keep the ball rolling, just like they did on their path to success. Episode Highlights: The Carbliss Journey: 0 Carbs, 0 Sugar, 100 Calories – Loaded with Flavor! Discover how Carbliss Drinks started and how its unique focus on health-conscious consumers led to its widespread popularity. Learn about the "go big or go home" strategy that entrepreneurs face and how Carbliss's targeted approach helped them stand out. Defining Success by Economic Impact: A Profitable Partnership Explore Carbliss's approach to defining success not just by sales numbers but by the economic impact they have on their partners. Understand how this focus on partner success contributes to Carbliss's rapid growth and market presence. Spotting Opportunities and Building Relationships: The Spotted Cow Example Discover how Carbliss leveraged data and hyper-focus to expand into new markets, taking inspiration from the success of the Spotted Cow in Wisconsin. Learn how strategic packaging choices have played a pivotal role in boosting Carbliss's sales and consumer appeal. The Bartender's Advantage: Selling into Bars Explore how Carbliss's founder, Adam, leveraged his bartending background to establish strong relationships with bars and create a thriving sales and sampling revenue stream. Understand the consumers' preference for buying at bars vs. retail stores and how Carbliss maximizes their presence through point-of-sale strategies. Bootstrapping and Beyond: Carbliss's Path to Success Uncover the story of Carbliss's humble beginnings and how they managed to bootstrap their way to success with limited resources. Learn about the pivotal role of Dale Carnegie's principles in fostering meaningful connections and driving Carbliss's growth. Season 3, Episode 47: Carbliss: Website Linkedin  Facebook Instagram  Pinterest  Connect with Adam Connect with Tony About me and my mission and the podcast: Are you looking for a fun and light-hearted podcast to discover unique brands and learn about the people and strategies successful companies are implementing in the CPG and Food and Beverage Industry?  The brands featured here take us into the world of innovation, sustainability, good for you, lifestyle, QSR, Foodservice, Distribution, DTC, Club, and more. I am a fun-loving business leader, podcaster, husband, dad, cyclist, and Convention of States volunteer in my spare time. My mission is to discover the people and ideas behind these different, better, and special companies.    Entrepreneurs and CEOs, are you: Searching for distributor or broker partners?  Actively prospecting commercial buyers to gain more points of distribution? Searching for the right person to add to the team? My Direct Response Marketing Service attracts exactly what you need to help your brand thrive and grow.  Here is a NOVEL approach to ATTRACT distributors, buyers, and people (DEMO)   Contact me: Tony@timpl.com Follow me on LinkedIn: Different, Better, Special Brands Join Our Community Music from Uppbeat and ZapSplat https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/get-the-funk-in License code: SF3WUKBUJQULFHXE TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | LINKEDIN PAGE | LINKEDIN GROUP  

I welcome in Jason Reposa, CEO of Good Feels, a cannabis beverage brand. Jason is my first founder in this category, so he gets peppered with a round of questions from me, a novice. There were so many questions that I wanted to ask, but didn't have time, so stay tuned for a live stream on Linkedin in the coming weeks.   Cannabis regulation, so why work in this category? High risk ~ high reward The big moat around your product RTD Seltzer 4 flavors +1 seasonal – treat it like a brewery. Beverage enhancer – innovation winner You need a low-dose product, so you feel relaxed – titration to get up to the level Solved the control issue with the dropped You can infuse anything that is water-based Customer base – wellness-focused consumers: sleep, pain management, or anxiety aliments Wholesale, DTC, B2B2C model Its all about engagement, you have to show up and be at events – started an events newsletter Brokerage/distribution model – self-distribution – now a new business opportunity Sample strategy - pop-ups with un-infused beverage Investor environment Seat-to-sale tracking – Metrc tracks everything – seed to sale No data insights Programmatic VS the high cost of labor for in-store sampling Season 3, Episode 28 Good Feels:  Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Connect with Jason Connect with Tony About me and my mission and the podcast: Are you looking for a fun and light-hearted podcast to discover unique brands and learn about the people and strategies successful companies are implementing in the CPG and Food and Beverage Industry?  The brands featured here take us into the world of innovation, sustainability, good for you, lifestyle, QSR, Foodservice, Distribution, DTC, Club, and more. I am a fun-loving business leader, podcaster, husband, dad, cyclist, and Convention of States volunteer in my spare time. My mission is to discover the people and ideas behind these different, better, and special companies.    Entrepreneurs and CEOs, are you: Searching for distributor or broker partners?  Actively prospecting commercial buyers to gain more points of distribution? Searching for the right person to add to the team? My Direct Response Marketing Service attracts exactly what you need to help your brand thrive and grow.  Here is a NOVEL approach to ATTRACT distributors, buyers, and people (DEMO)   Contact me: Tony@timpl.com Follow me on LinkedIn: Different, Better, Special Brands Join Our Community Music from Uppbeat and ZapSplat https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/get-the-funk-in License code: SF3WUKBUJQULFHXE TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Season 3 Episode 1 ~ Boxed Water: The Rise of Lifestyle Brands and The Fall of Plastic ~ Connect with Rob Koenen https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-koenen-6550017/ Connect with Matt Kovacs https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjkovacs/ Connect with Tony Moore https://www.linkedin.com/in/differentbetterspecialbrands/ ATTRACT the hidden candidate market with a novel candidate attraction program (DEMO) Matt Kovacs and Rob Koenen join me to discuss the rise in lifestyle brands and why Boxed Water resonates with consumers - here is a HINT - plastic is AWFUL! Boxed Water Fast facts The Plastic industry Why lifestyle brands are important to people Disruptor brand Selling and partnership strategies Alaska Airlines Social impact Rapid fire   About me and my mission and podcast: Are you looking for a fun and light-hearted podcast to discover unique brands and learn about the people and strategies successful companies are implementing in the CPG and Food and Beverage Industry?  The brands featured here take us into the world of innovation, sustainability, good for you, lifestyle, QSR, Foodservice, Distribution, DTC, Club, and more. I am a fun-loving business leader, podcaster, husband, dad, cyclist, and Convention of States volunteer in my spare time. My mission is to discover the people and ideas behind these different, better, and special companies.  My skills are in leadership, talent acquisition strategies, corporate hiring, sales, entrepreneurship, and backseat driving. I created a novel 6-week candidate attraction program talent acquisition that engages the 70% of the workforce not actively applying for jobs. See the DEMO. Say goodbye to traditional!  Contact me: Tony@timpl.com Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/differentbetterspecialbrands/ Join Our Community Music from Uppbeat and ZapSplat https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/get-the-funk-in License code: SF3WUKBUJQULFHXE    

Colin "Cim" Yoder Senior Vice President - Foodservice at Brookwood Farms BBQ: https://brookwoodfarms.com/ Connect with Cim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cimyoder/ Growing a food business 'back in the day' was easier - but don't misunderstand me. There is nothing easy in the world of food. It's always been hard work, but it was "easier" to get product samples into mouths. You have to have a great-tasting product - that goes without saying. But how do you scale today when it is harder to get in front of decision-makers. Cim explains with his Southern charm how he and his team built and scaled their food brand. Can this be replicated? You decide.  Brookwood Farms mission Smoking premium BBQ Crazy BBQ Sauce people Scaling the business GPO - is it right for you? Texans Airport Kiosk New Product Trails Branding Controlled Growth Hiring strategies 🏆 Winning at Work has just been named one of the top 45 Learning and Development Podcasts! 🏆 Thank you Feedspot. https://lnkd.in/e8WAt4d5 Episode 93 is sponsored by: Joynus Search - National Food and Beverage headhunters for sales, marketing, innovation, operations. https://www.joynussearch.com/ Contact: Tony Moore. 404-904-9235. Winning at Work in today’s food and beverage / CPG space requires taking learning and development into your own hands. Fortunately, I’ve interviewed hundreds of successful Food & Beverage/CPG executives and leaders to help you do just that. Hi, I’m Tony Moore, I'm an F&B/CPG  executive recruiter and I really geek out on identifying and sharing the skills, strategies, and insights used by very successful leaders in our industry. The demand for high-performers is at an all-time high. Don’t get left behind. Subscribe on your favorite platform. Music from Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/get-the-funk-in License code: SF3WUKBUJQULFHXE

The world of smart warehousing and Industry 4.0 Today, we explore how the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) connects machines, data, and people to create more efficient and intelligent operations. The conversation highlights the critical role of modern Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) in bridging automation with the human workforce, making daily work safer, easier, and more intuitive while preparing for the future of warehousing. Meet Nikki Gonzales, Director WEINTEK Top 5 Key Ideas IIoT vs. Consumer IoT: Industrial Internet of Things prioritizes security and reliability over simple connectivity—unlike smart home devices—because mistakes in a factory or warehouse can have serious safety consequences. The Smart Factory Ecosystem: True Industry 4.0 emerges when plant-floor data (from machines and robotics) integrates in real time with business systems (ERP, inventory, sales), creating a single source of truth for faster, smarter decisions. Evolution of HMIs: From replacing physical buttons with basic touchscreens to becoming intelligent hubs that gather machine data, provide operator feedback, and serve as gateways to the broader plant network. Worker-Centric Benefits: Modern HMIs improve the operator experience with intuitive capacitive touch (like a smartphone), haptic feedback for gloved hands, built-in training videos, maintenance guides, and layered interfaces that show only what’s needed for the task at hand. Future of Warehousing: Expect larger, higher-volume facilities with more autonomous systems (like inventory robots), fewer manual tasks, and a shift toward upskilled roles—but not fully “lights-out” operations, as people will remain essential for oversight and complex decision-making. Contact Timpl today for a workforce consultation

Fresh, Hot, Robot-Made Pizza in 3 Minutes Flat Edge-to-Edge Pepperoni, Zero Employees, 24/7 Deliciousness But Don’t Call it a Pizza Vending Machine! Meet Nipun Sharma Appetronix  Who doesn’t love pizza? (Spoiler: nobody) Discover the jaw-dropping robotic pizza kitchen that’s turning heads in airports and beyond — fresh 10-inch pies made from scratch in under 3 minutes while you watch. From Wall Street to Woks to World-Changing Robotics A former investment banker turned serial restaurateur explains why he ditched finance, spent 20+ years building global chains, and then said “screw it — let’s automate the hardest cuisines first.” (Yes, that means Asian noodle bowls were the warm-up act before pizza.) Why Most Food Robots Are Just “Expensive Human Cosplay” The brutal truth about robotic arms: they look cool on TikTok but are actually the least innovative way to automate food. Hear why copying human movements inside human-designed kitchens is holding the entire industry back. First-Principles Thinking, Elon-Style, Applied to Pizza Forget everything you know about restaurant kitchens. The engineering team has literally never been allowed inside a traditional kitchen so they’re not “tainted” by old ideas. Instead, they redesign food production from physics upward: gravity-fed ingredients, vertical layouts, laser cutting, and zero inspiration from the 5'4" human body. The Customer Experience (It’s Basically Food Theater Walk up to a sleek Donatos Pizza-branded machine (yes, the legendary Ohio chain once owned by McDonald’s) Order on touchscreen or QR code from your phone Watch live as dough is pressed, sauce spirals edge-to-edge, fresh pepperoni is sliced and placed in real-time (50–54 slices!), cheese rains down, Romano shaker does its magic 2-minute-20-second bake in a high-speed conveyor oven Party-cut into perfect rectangles (Donatos signature) Boxed, locker-delivered, text message sent → grab and go Total time from payment to hot pizza in hand: ~3 minutes. Why They Partner With Iconic Brands Instead of Inventing New Ones “We don’t sell robots. We sell the best-tasting food you’ve ever had.” By automating proven winners (Donatos Pizza now, burrito bowls and cookies next), they skip the impossible task of building a brand from scratch. The Business Model That Makes Everyone Say “Take My Money” Zero upfront cost for locations (revenue-share only) Machines are basically “restaurants on wheels” — if traffic is low, just roll it somewhere better Only needs 4–5 hours of basic labor per day for restocking & cleaning Perfect for airports, hospitals, universities, office towers, gas/EV charging stations, theme parks — anywhere with captive 24/7 traffic Current & Upcoming Flavors of the Future Live now: Donatos Pizza (Columbus, OH airport) Coming 2026: Chipotle-style burrito/bowl machine, fresh-baked cookie machine, and heavy pressure for a coffee concept Picture walking through an airport and seeing an entire food hall of these machines side-by-side. Fun Stats & Mind-Blowing Moments First two weeks after launch → 700+ million social media impressions Airport workers with 20-minute breaks can now actually eat lunch because they pre-order on the way in Every pizza gets party-cut into rectangles because “that’s the Donatos way” — and yes, the robot does it perfectly every time Key Takeaways The restaurant industry’s biggest problems (labor shortages, inconsistent quality, limited hours) are being solved not by better humans… but by better physics-first machines. If your automation strategy starts with “let’s copy what a human does,” you’ve already lost. True innovation throws out the human blueprint entirely. The winning formula: iconic food + zero-capex deployment + 24/7 availability = the death of the sad airport sandwich. Hungry yet? Catch the full episode wherever you get your podcasts and prepare to have your mind (and stomach) blown. Next time you’re rushing through an airport and smell fresh pizza at 11 p.m., you’ll know exactly who to thank. #RobotPizzaRevolution #FutureOfFood #DonatosOnWheels  

The humanoid revolution isn’t science fiction anymore; it’s happening right now, and it’s picking up speed in ways that are both mind-blowing and (let’s be honest) a little hilarious when you picture a robot handing out flyers at a Dunkin’ Donuts grand opening. Jesica Chavez Humanoids Summit Robo-Success Here are the big ideas that stood out from a recent conversation with one of the key organizers behind the upcoming Humanoid Summit (December 11–12) and the founder of Robo Success: Humanoids Are Closing Real-World Gaps—Fast Traditional industrial robots and cobots have been around for decades, but humanoids are different. They’re built to work in spaces designed for humans, doing the jobs we no longer want: repetitive, dangerous, dirty, or downright boring warehouse and logistics tasks. Younger generations are voting with their feet—no one dreams of moving boxes all day when they can code, create, or invent instead. No One Builds a Humanoid Alone: The Ecosystem Is Everything Building a viable humanoid isn’t a solo act. You need: Specialized partners for actuators, sensors, and ultra-dexterous hands (shout-out to companies mastering finger-level precision while others focus on torso power or locomotion) Massive shared datasets so robots can develop “muscle memory.” A future marketplace for task-specific data (think: construction motions, healthcare procedures, etc.) It’s the classic “picks and shovels” play: some companies will win by supplying the critical components and data layers everyone else needs. Teleoperation Today → True Autonomy Tomorrow Right now, many impressive humanoid demos are still teleoperated (a human is secretly driving). But every teleop session feeds the training loop. Companies like 1X are already taking pre-orders for home humanoids that will start teleoperated while they vacuum up real-world data to go fully autonomous. Early adopters wanted yesterday. The Use Cases Are Exploding (Some Wilder Than Others) Elderly care and special-needs assistance (a genuinely heartwarming—and massive—market) Security patrols, cooking, cleaning, lawn-mowing (still waiting for the perfect robotic landscaper) Entertainment and “because it’s cool” applications (yes, people are seriously pitching humanoid fight clubs and soccer matches) Startups Need Fractional Superpowers Early-stage robotics companies often can’t afford (or don’t need) full-time marketing, design, and growth teams. That’s where fractional services like Robo Success come in—budget-friendly, high-impact help to build brands, raise capital, and look legit before the big checks arrive. The Humanoid Summit: Where the Magic Happens This isn’t just another conference. It’s where CEOs, CTOs, investors, end-users from healthcare/logistics/construction, and the sharpest minds in the space collide. The real value? The hallway conversations, the impromptu demos, the “wait, you solved legged locomotion HOW?” moments that simply don’t happen anywhere else. Bottom line: We’re standing at the edge of an inflection point. In a few years, we’ll look back at 2025 the same way we now look at 2012 and Tesla’s first Autopilot demos—quaint, exciting, and just the beginning. Want in? The Humanoid Summit is happening December 11–12. Grab tickets, find partners, or just come witness the future being built in real time. And if you’re a robotics founder who needs to look investor-ready without breaking the bank, there are fractional teams ready to help you shine. The robots are coming. Some will mow your lawn. Some will hand your grandparents a glass of water at 3 a.m. And yes, a few might even play soccer against each other for our amusement. Either way, it’s going to be one hell of a show.  

Artificial intelligence is quietly reshaping entire industries faster than most leaders are prepared to admit. We examine real-world deployments of AI in finance, healthcare, logistics, and creative fields—revealing both staggering efficiency gains and the uncomfortable disruptions that follow. Meet Sean Pineau Locus Robotics Topics include the accelerating collapse of traditional middle-management roles, the rise of new high-value human-AI hybrid positions, and why most corporate “AI strategies” currently resemble expensive PowerPoint theater.  It’s a blend of pragmatic optimism with sober warnings about data sovereignty, regulatory whiplash, and the very real chance that today’s cutting-edge model becomes tomorrow’s embarrassing legacy system. The actual ROI timeline for enterprise AI adoption (longer than the LinkedIn influencers claim, shorter than your CIO fears) Why healthcare diagnostics and financial fraud detection turned into the killer apps nobody predicted five years ago The quiet revolution in supply-chain optimization that saved multiple Fortune 500 companies from the 2024–2025 inventory apocalypse Creative industries: where AI went from “job killer” to “world’s most overworked intern” practically overnight The emerging class of “prompt engineers” who now out-earn traditional MBAs at certain hedge funds (yes, really) Key Insights & Mildly Unsettling Truths: Organizations treating AI as a cost-cutting tool rather than a capability multiplier are already losing to those who see it as a new operating system for human intelligence. The skills most at risk aren’t the credentialed ones—they’re the ones requiring neither creativity nor basic human judgment (looking at you, 87-step compliance checklists). Every company is now a data company; the ones pretending otherwise are just waiting for a more honest competitor to explain it to their market cap. Notable Quotes: “The future isn’t ‘man versus machine.’ It’s man with a mediocre machine versus man with an exceptional one.” “AI doesn’t eliminate jobs—it eliminates jobs that can be done better by something that doesn’t need health insurance or sleep.” “We’re not in an AI bubble. We’re in an expectations bubble that’s about to violently re-align with reality.” The tool changes; the ability to communicate value doesn’t. Pragmatic advice for leaders, creators, and individual contributors navigating this shift—less utopian dreaming, more tactical adaptation for a world where competitive advantage increasingly belongs to those who can effectively direct intelligence rather than just possess it. Essential listening for anyone whose job description might quietly vanish while they’re busy adding “ChatGPT power user” to their résumé.  

Robo Fight Clubs: Shattering Competition and Launching Careers “The First Rule of Robot Fight Club… Is You DO Talk About Robot Fight Club!” Cue the bass drop, the flickering neon, the slow-motion sparks…What Happens in the Arena… Gets Posted in 4K. Meet Gursimar Virk Combat Robotics at Berkeley 260-pound legacy beasts named “Glitch” once ruled the Discovery Channel Their new lightweight psycho little brother, “Malware” — 15 pounds of pure chaos with a name that makes IT hackers proud Duct-tape MacGyver repairs between rounds while the bracket clock ticks down One legendary match: a pro bot launched our hero ten feet in the air… only for the underdog to land, spin up, and absolutely OBLITERATE the favorite in the greatest comeback since “You do not talk about Fight Club” became a meme The Underground Is Real (and It Wants Berkeley Engineers): Hidden warehouses in SF. Overseas humanoid companies test-driving million-dollar robots stateside. Secret late-night invitations sliding into the team president’s DMs: “Come pilot our 6-foot battle humanoids. Bring friends. Bring weapons. Winner gets funding… and maybe a job.” This isn’t a competition.  This is Robot Fight Club. First rule of Robot Fight Club: THERE ARE NO RULES Why This Is the Ultimate Career Launchpad Every exploded bot = a masterclass in rapid prototyping, failure analysis, and not crying in front of 120 teammates. Every all-nighter welding session at 3 a.m. = resume gold that startups and VC firms are literally fighting over. Every time Malware flips another robot into the ceiling = another LinkedIn recruiter losing their mind. Venture funds. Shadowy humanoid overlords running underground leagues. They’re not waiting for graduation — they’re ringside with contracts and term sheets. The verdict? The kids who spend college turning robots into fireworks are about to turn the entire robotics industry into their personal playground. Tony from Timpl leads the marketing efforts of the national staffing agency with specializes in manufacturing. Contact them today for a staffing quote and safety walk-through. 

What a time to be alive. We are at the start of the next great industrial revolution! Robotics and automation will change forever the manufacturing ecosystem. Chris Harbert Tompkins Solutions  Sky-high consumer expectations are driving businesses to keep up with demand. Listen to insights on how industries like pharmaceuticals and automotive are gearing up for the future, the shift toward employee-friendly automation, and tips for navigating the noisy world of tech options. Consumer-Driven Logistics Challenges: Rising consumer expectations globally are putting pressure on warehousing and logistics. The demand for variety, customization (e.g., engraved cell phones delivered by drones), and fast delivery creates complex fulfillment challenges, especially during peak seasons like holidays. Excitement in Automation and Robotics: The warehousing and automation sector is dynamic due to the puzzle-like challenge of meeting consumer demands. Innovations in technology and strategies offer opportunities to solve complex logistics problems, making the field engaging and rewarding. Small and Mid-Sized Companies Adopting Automation: Historically, large companies led automation due to their resources. Now, small and mid-sized businesses can leverage insights from big players via expert integrators and white papers. The shift is driven by more accessible, less disruptive automation solutions. Automation Adoption Stats: 80-90% of fulfillment operations still lack automation (e.g., conveyors, robotics), despite high consumer demand. Past barriers included high costs ($10M+ projects) and operational shutdowns, limiting automation to mega-corporations with multiple facilities. Brownfield vs. Greenfield: Brownfield projects involve integrating automation into active warehouses without halting operations, likened to "fixing a car while driving." Greenfield projects start from scratch in new facilities, allowing full design control but are less common. Modern Automation Solutions: Advances like AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots), and software enable incremental improvements without overhauling operations, making automation viable for smaller warehouses. Industries Ripe for Automation: Established Players: Large 3PLs (e.g., DHL, GXO) and retailers (e.g., Macy’s, Walmart) have long benefited from automation. Underserved Segments: Automotive aftermarket, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies are emerging due to growing demand and tailored technological advancements. Challenges in Automotive: Diverse products (e.g., mirrors, carburetors) require specialized solutions compared to lightweight apparel, which dominated early automation. Software in Automation: Integrators may develop proprietary software (e.g., warehouse management, control, and execution systems) but often adapt existing or client-preferred solutions (e.g., Manhattan’s platform) to fit specific needs, avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches. Omnichannel Fulfillment: Consumers demand flexible options (e.g., ship to store, home, or alternate locations), blending online and in-store experiences. Retailers like Home Depot exemplify this, offering multiple delivery choices, complicating logistics but meeting consumer expectations. Cart Abandonment and Delivery Speed: Studies show 70-80% of online carts are abandoned, often due to slow or inconvenient delivery options. Retailers lose significant revenue when competitors offer faster, cheaper shipping, driving the need for automation to optimize fulfillment. Case Study: Specialty Retailer: A retailer lost sales to a wholesaler offering faster, cheaper shipping for the same product. Automation was pursued to match the wholesaler’s efficiency, preserve profit margins, and compete effectively. Choosing Automation Partners: With many providers (e.g., 3,000 AMR manufacturers) making similar claims (2-3x pick rates, halved labor costs), companies should seek agnostic partners who explore tailored solutions rather than pushing specific products. Quick recommendations after brief discussions are a red flag. Labor Shortage and Beyond: Automation is no longer just about cost-cutting but addressing labor shortages (e.g., unfilled warehouse roles) and boosting output without expanding payroll. It also improves employee quality of life by reducing physical demands (e.g., replacing cart-pushing with system management), enhancing safety, and offering upskilling opportunities. Philosophical Shift in Automation: The focus has shifted from headcount reduction to employee well-being and operational resilience. Companies aim to retain veteran workers, improve job satisfaction, and align with consumer-driven demands for efficiency and speed. Future Trends: Industries like pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and automotive parts are poised for automation growth due to high-volume needs and omnichannel opportunities. Advanced software and distribution solutions will support these sectors’ evolution. Visit our WEBSITE for more content    

Picture a future where robots and humans work in sync, and danger is replaced by opportunity. This episode explores the surge in manufacturing automation, spotlighting a retailer’s bold deployment of 17,000 robots. Yet, for smaller companies, robotics feels out of reach—high costs, technical complexity, and the need for a bold leader to drive change. Meet Mark Gagas, COO at Sensory Robotics. Enter Sensory Robotics, born from a surprising twist. At a high school robotics event, the founder showcased a VR sword-fighting robot that stopped when kids got close. A Toyota Group onlooker saw potential, sparking a pivot from gaming to revolutionary safety solutions. Traditional robots are caged for safety, requiring complex protocols like lockout/tagout. Sensory’s SR1 system changes that, using 3D time-of-flight sensors to create a virtual safety net around existing robots. It maps the workspace in real-time, pausing robots when humans enter and resuming when clear—a seamless blend of safety and productivity. SR1 is a game-changer: it bolts onto current systems, slashing costs and bypassing safety workarounds. It promises safer workplaces, potentially cutting workers’ comp claims and boosting hiring. Hardwired via Ethernet with 400ms latency (adjustable to 200ms), its Safe Visionary 2 sensors eliminate blind spots, adapting to any compatible hardware. Sensory Robotics is already in major automotive, aerospace, DOD, and consumer goods firms, with new Michigan installs and a big DOD contract. The future shines brighter with SR Mobile, bringing safety to AGVs in warehouses, and SR2 (Q1 2026), embedding safety into robot arms for easy licensing. Could this tech reach self-driving cars? Speed and latency pose challenges, but the dream is alive. For staffing, where safety is a constant worry, SR1 is a lifeline, fostering trust and secure workplaces for all. Key Takeaways: SR1 makes human-robot collaboration safe and affordable. From VR gaming to safety innovation, Sensory’s story is one of serendipity. SR Mobile and SR2 promise broader, safer automation. Safer workplaces cut costs and attract talent. Check out all our content HERE

Enjoy this throwback episode: Kun Yang and his co-founder Mohammed Hassoun are on a journey to create the greatest cactus company in the world. Mo rediscovered a delightful childhood drink made from the prickly pear cactus. Kun recognized the health benefits. They knew the drink would "check the functional boxes", but that wasn't the essence behind the beverage. Sustainability and 'Good for You' are major benefits of the cactus for sure! But could they find authenticity in the brand that aligns with their personal values? Entrepreneurs, this is no easy endeavor. It can be lonely. It is painfully slow at times. But the journey is worth it.   Thank you for sharing your journey with us all, Kun.  Connect with Kun Yang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyang2/ Pricklee: https://pricklee.com/ Youtube Sharktank episode: https://youtu.be/CdEBhhQVtkw

THROWBACK episode you don't want to miss. With nearly 300 SKUs of ice cream competing for limited freezer space, you have to boot a brand out to get in! So, the question is: how do you build a brand in the freezer? What brings the consumer into the grocery store? How do you find new customers to try your brand?  Vedant Saboo and Mike Webber, co-founders of Frutero Ice Cream, join Winning at Work to share their start-up story and key learnings about grocery stores and scaling a business. Origin Story Building a brand in the freezer How do grocers categorize their products? Trip driven Hero Basket builder Inspirational How intentional is the purchase? What is the value of differentiation? What category is ice cream? Is Frutero an ice cream brand or a fruit brand? What is a brand promise? Commercial fruit production VS Frutero's Key learnings ~ incremental growth outside of ice cream How to attract new consumers New flavors coming soon - you heard it here first! Connect with Vedant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vedant-saboo-59130a44/ Connect with Mike:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedweber/ Frutero Ice Cream: https://www.fruteroicecream.com/  

This is a popular episode from Tony's food and beverage segment. It is still relevant today. Starting worlds away from the food industry as a bioengineer at UPenn, Mama Mancini’s CEO Adam Michaels joins me today and shares how he found his true passion and purpose in food. We dissect consumer trends in the wake of recessionary pressures. As more people choose to eat at home over eating out and choose to buy private labels over branded ones, Mama Mancini's decision to be a one-stop shop in the deli is the right one. Crack open a beer and enjoy this episode with Adam. Mama Mancini’s winning categories in the QVC customer choice awards 2022: 🏆 Most Recommended Brand 🏆 Best Meatball 🏆 Best Sauce 🏆 Best Plant-Based Item Mama Mancini’s, with Adam Michaels, CEO

Robotics as a Service – Leveling the Playing Field for Manufacturers In this episode, we explore Robotics as a Service (RaaS) and its impact on manufacturing. Our guest from Formic shares insights on how this model delivers affordable, scalable automation, helping businesses boost efficiency without the usual barriers. It's a practical shift from traditional approaches, opening doors to innovation and workforce growth. Meet Jon French, from Formic Deep Dive: Robotics as a Service RaaS reimagines automation as an operational expense (OpEx) rather than a capital outlay (CapEx), making it accessible for companies of all sizes. In the food and beverage sector—from established players to smaller operations—it's addressing longstanding challenges like inconsistent production and labor-intensive processes. Key benefits include: Efficiency Gains: Increased throughput, reliable scheduling, reduced ergonomic risks, and lower costs by replacing ad-hoc labor solutions with consistent automation. Workforce Evolution: Rather than displacing jobs, RaaS frees employees from repetitive tasks (e.g., box stacking) for higher-value work in problem-solving, process improvement, and leadership. This fosters stability, cuts turnover, and strengthens team culture. Overcoming Resistance: Success hinges on clear communication of benefits—"What's in it for me?"—tailored to workers, managers, and executives. Even long-tenured staff adapt when the value is straightforward and demonstrated. Formic's Approach: End-to-end support covers engineering, installation, programming, and 24/7 maintenance with performance guarantees. Real-time data analytics provide actionable insights, enabling root-cause analysis and ongoing optimization. Deployment takes about 20 weeks, with no long-term risk—if it underperforms, it's removed at no extra cost. This aligns with continuous improvement principles, like Toyota's Kaizen: Small, incremental enhancements compound into significant results over time. Robot Roundup: In Action RaaS brings tools like palletizers, case packers, and floor cleaners into seamless operation—reliable, powerful, and managed like SaaS for hardware. No need to invest in outdated equipment; it's handled, updated, and scaled as your needs evolve. Guest Spotlight: Insights from Formic Drawing from recent client conversations, our guest highlights the appeal: Plant managers value production consistency, while executives appreciate the risk mitigation. The model empowers quick adoption, allowing manufacturers to experiment with automation and refine based on real outcomes—without tying up capital or resources. Takeaways & Action Items For Manufacturers: Consider RaaS to enhance agility and compete effectively, starting with a low-risk pilot. For Teams: View automation as an upskilling opportunity to build more rewarding roles. Next Steps: Explore Formic's resources or similar providers to assess fit for your operations.

This episode explores the growing role of robotics in business automation with Paulo Orosz, President, RobotLAB a franchise owner in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. We cover practical applications, adoption models, and future trends, highlighting how robotics tackles labor shortages, improves efficiency, and enhances employee and customer experiences in sectors like warehousing and hospitality. Meet Paulo Orosz from RobotLab. Highlights: Introduction to Robotics Franchising The RobotLAB's model leverages franchising for nationwide coverage, facilitating localized robot deployments from global manufacturers. Core Robotics Solutions in Warehousing Cleaning robots serve as the foundation, scrubbing concrete floors around the clock with consistent routes, obstacle avoidance, and adaptive mapping for layout shifts. A real-world example: A Fort Worth manufacturer deployed a transport robot to shift products from production to shipping, cutting 12-minute production pauses and delivering 5-10% output increases with low investment. Solutions adapt from small (8,000 sq ft) to large (100,000+ sq ft) warehouses, prioritizing regulatory fit for sectors like food/beverage or CPG. Flexible Investment Models RobotLAB provides four approaches: outright purchase, financing, leasing or short-term rental (suited for trials). Featuring 60+ robots sourced from Asia (South Korea, Japan, Vietnam) and the U.S., the portfolio prevents vendor lock-in and incorporates advances in sensors and navigation. Hospitality & Service Enhancements In response to acute staffing gaps, robots augment rather than replace staff. In hotels, cleaning units manage corridors and lobbies for $35-40/day compared to $100+ for human labor, alleviating pressure on limited teams and upholding standards. An anecdote from a Houston hotel illustrates understaffing struggles, while deployments in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Las Vegas show staff embracing robots for workload relief. In restaurants (e.g., a Frisco venue), delivery bots ferry food from kitchen to table, allowing servers to prioritize service—boosting tips by 20% without any layoffs. The human element persists, with staff handling dish presentation. Emerging Market Demands & Challenges Requests include roof-inspection drones for hail-vulnerable regions (fueled by a contracting U.S. workforce) or household laundry folders. Hesitation often arises from rapid tech changes, but the multi-vendor approach and upgrade options (through service plans) offer adaptability. Labor strains—like those in Georgia's staffing sector—propel adoption, framing robotics as support for repetitive duties. Future Trends & Predictions A "robotics revolution" is anticipated in 4-5 years, featuring humanoid bots aiding on demanding tasks (e.g., plumbing support for heavy lifting under human guidance). Pivotal progress: Semantic AI for intuitive commands (e.g., "pick that up" sans specifics) and agile hands for human-centric spaces. Aligning with Elon Musk's views, hands represent the core challenge, yet robotics will extend beyond cleaning/delivery to multifaceted, bipedal capabilities. Adoption will surge in labor-heavy fields, propelled by productivity needs and talent shortfalls. Contact Tony at Timpl for your staffing needs.

Welcome to jobTopia, the leading learning and development podcast exploring innovations in business technology. This episode delves into transforming warehouses into efficient, intelligent hubs through robotics, automation, and private 5G networks, offering insights into the future of supply chain management. Meet Varun Vashisht, VP Sales and Strategy at Trilogy NexGen Key Takeaways Automation Challenges: Businesses are striving to automate warehouses to meet the demands of rapid e-commerce delivery, such as same-day shipping. However, many lack the technological infrastructure required to implement effective automation. Private 5G Networks: Private 5G networks provide low-latency, reliable connectivity for mobile warehouse operations, outperforming traditional Wi-Fi. A single 5G access point can replace eight Wi-Fi access points, reducing costs and potential points of failure. Building Smart Warehouses: Private 5G solutions include rack space for the network core and ceiling-mounted access points, supporting over 100 SIM cards with built-in redundancy to ensure uninterrupted automation. Operational Benefits: Automation optimizes processes like palletizing, transporting, and shrink-wrapping, enhancing space utilization and efficiency. One case study demonstrated a reduction from 24 to 10 seasonal pickers using two robots, yielding $70,000 in savings. Key Applications: Supply Chain Visibility: Real-time monitoring of scanners, sensors, and conveyors identifies inefficiencies across warehouse operations. Access Control & Surveillance: Geo-fencing with 2-4 cm precision ensures compliance with safety protocols, such as PPE usage, and restricts access to designated areas. Asset Tracking: SIM cards in ruggedized devices enable tracking via integrated dashboards, ensuring equipment availability and reducing operational disruptions. Remote Diagnostics & Preventative Maintenance: Real-time data transmission predicts equipment overloads, enabling proactive maintenance scheduling to minimize downtime. AI Integration: AI is being explored for exception handling and predictive maintenance, reducing reliance on human intervention by enabling systems to address issues autonomously. Change Management: Adopting automation requires overcoming resistance and demonstrating return on investment. Data-driven case studies, such as the $70,000 savings, help secure buy-in, though 85% of warehouses still operate with minimal or siloed automation. Why It Matters: As downtime poses significant risks and rapid delivery becomes the industry standard, smart warehouses leveraging private 5G and robotics are critical for enhancing efficiency, safety, and scalability in supply chain operations. Connect with Tony from Timpl to learn more about warehouse staffing and innovation in your plant.

Welcome to jobTopia – today we focus on all things robotics and automation with our guest, David Pascucci, the CEO of Bright IA, a systems integrator who’s shaping the future of manufacturing! Let’s take a closer look into the world of robots, AI, and the exciting transformations happening in industries like food and beverage, automotive, and beyond. Robots Galore! David breaks down the four rockstars of robotics: classic industrial robots (think automotive pioneers), collaborative robots working side-by-side with humans, futuristic humanoid robots stealing the spotlight, and zippy AMRs (those cool warehouse carts). From factories to warehouses, these bots are changing the game! The Automation Boom! Why are companies jumping on the automation train? David spills the tea on reshoring trends, especially in semiconductors, and how higher U.S. wages are pushing businesses to automate to stay competitive. But here’s the catch—some are still in “wait and see” mode, and David warns that’s a risky move in this fast-paced, AI-driven world. From Manual to Magical! As a systems integrator, David helps companies ditch old-school manual processes for sleek, automated setups. Whether it’s food and beverage, fabrication, or automotive accessories, he’s all about boosting efficiency and nailing that sweet ROI. Upskilling is the Name of the Game! Workers, listen up! The future belongs to robot technicians. David encourages operators to level up their skills—think swapping gearboxes or greasing robot joints—to stay ahead in this robotic revolution. Trade schools for robot repair? They’re coming, folks! AI: The Ultimate Game-Changer! AI and machine learning are shaking things up, especially for high-mix, low-volume production. David shares how AI-powered palletizing systems are already handling varied box sizes like champs, with more innovations (like painting and grinding) on the horizon. Digital Twins & VR Vibes! Ever heard of a digital twin? David’s team uses these virtual simulations to test automation setups, saving time and avoiding costly oopsies. Plus, VR lets clients “see” their future factory floor in action—talk about a high-tech sneak peek! Humanoid Robots: Cool or Creepy? From Tesla’s Optimus to Boston Dynamics’ creations, humanoid robots are turning heads. David’s excited but admits they’re a bit spooky for home use (nobody wants a robot chef with a glitchy spatula!). And when it comes to military applications? Let’s just say he’s got Skynet concerns. The Future is Bright (and Automated)! Companies that embrace automation now will soar, while those who hesitate might get left in the dust. David’s pumped about emerging trends like blockchain for inventory tracking and automated work cells that bring materials right to workers’ stations. Get Involved! Want to connect with David? Find him on LinkedIn for the latest on his automation adventures, or check out his website for more details. Don’t miss the Automation Stars of Texas trade show on December 9-10 in DFW, where David and his partners will showcase cutting-edge solutions for the Southwest! Would you let a humanoid robot mow your lawn or cook your dinner? Drop your thoughts in the comments—David wants to know if you’re ready to join the robot revolution! And for more on how automation can supercharge your business, reach out to David on LinkedIn or visit his website.