MFD Pod

In this episode of the MFD Pod, host Mike Gelb and guest co-host Pranay speak with Greg Brown, VP of Operations at DUDE Wipes, about how the company is integrating AI into its operations. They discuss the initial experimentation with AI tools, specifically ChatGPT, and the subsequent creation of AI agents like Diesel Dan to optimize logistics and streamline processes. The conversation covers the practical aspects of embedding AI into company culture, the challenges and benefits of using AI in small to medium-sized businesses, and the future potential of AI technology in operations.00:00 Introduction to the MFD Pod01:06 Greg Brown's AI Journey02:07 PNE's AI Experimentation04:09 Integrating AI into Dude Wipes06:51 Challenges and Learnings12:10 Creating Diesel Dan22:25 Types of AI Agents23:12 Starting with AI in Creative Work23:28 Building and Using AI Agents24:46 Diesel Dan's Role and Interactions26:50 Integrating AI with Existing Systems28:37 Experimenting with New AI Protocols30:09 Manufactured's AI Journey36:15 Future of AI Agents38:49 Choosing the Right AI Partners41:55 In-House AI Development43:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Inventory Success Podcast, host Mike Gelb interviews Alex Yancher, co-founder and CEO of Passport Shipping. They explore how Passport Shipping helps D2C and marketplace businesses expand internationally by handling shipping and logistics. Alex shares the initial inspiration behind Passport Shipping, the complexities of international shipping, and their unique approach to solving these challenges. They also discuss when it makes sense for brands to go international, the role of tariffs, and the benefits of having an integrated end-to-end solution for global logistics.00:00 Introduction to Recos Podcast00:27 Meet Alex Yancher, CEO of Passport Shipping01:56 The Birth of Passport Shipping04:27 Challenges in International Shipping07:21 The Role of Passport in E-commerce15:31 When to Go International24:57 Impact of Tariffs and International Trade31:07 Clearing Misconceptions About International Shipping34:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join Mike, the community manager at Manufactured (MFD), along with PNE and Hamad, as they delve into the complexities of sourcing, financing, and managing inventory across 25 countries and multiple industries. This episode tackles the impact of recent trade tariffs and geopolitical tensions on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Discover how companies can navigate the uncertainty, understand their supply chains better, and effectively plan for the future. Learn about counter-sourcing, free trade zones, and the crucial distinctions between country of origin and country of export. Special topics include the latest tariff updates, the influence of geopolitical factors on trade, and strategies for maintaining stability and predictability in a fluctuating market.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:13 Understanding MFD's Role in Global Trade00:51 Expert Insights on Supply Chain Management02:11 Navigating Tariffs and Trade Agreements02:38 Strategies for SMBs in an Uncertain Trade Environment08:58 Approaches to Counter Sourcing12:05 Challenges in Counter Sourcing20:26 Impact of Tariffs on Industries23:23 Understanding Transshipment and Its Implications23:47 Vietnam's Trade Deals and Tariff Impacts24:47 Examples and Consequences of Transshipment30:26 Country of Origin vs. Country of Export31:56 USMCA and Its Effects on Trade34:27 Supply Chain Challenges and Opportunities38:45 Global Tariff Surprises and Geopolitical Impacts42:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the re:COGs, we sit down with Kevin Espiritu, founder of Epic Gardening.Kevin shares the story behind the brand's evolution from a hydroponic gardening blog to a flourishing YouTube channel and e-commerce venture. They explore Kevin's journey as a multi-platform content creator, his transition into the world of consumer products, the challenges of scaling a media-driven e-commerce business, and the strategic acquisitions that fueled Epic Gardening's growth. Tune in to learn about content to commerce strategies, operational challenges, and the value of a strong product-validation process.00:00 Introduction to the Inventory Success Podcast00:25 Epic Gardening: From Blog to YouTube Phenomenon01:59 Kevin's Journey: From Hobby to Full-Time Gardener04:06 Transition to YouTube and Viral Growth07:06 Launching the Product Line11:31 Navigating E-commerce and Logistics18:56 Acquiring Botanical Interests and Seed Business Insights24:52 Expanding the Wholesale Seed Business25:28 Leveraging Content for Product Validation26:20 The Content to Commerce Flywheel27:02 Navigating Amazon and Product Naming28:53 Subtle Product Placement Strategies30:14 Gross Margins and Unit Economics31:26 Product Assortment and Launch Strategies36:11 Challenges in Scaling Operations37:23 Reaching Garden Designers and Installers38:47 Future Growth and Product Categories41:43 Financial Shifts and Cash Flow Management45:43 Hiring and Operational Challenges49:48 Final Thoughts and Reflections

This episode features Tricia Srinivasan, founder of Modern Brands, who introduces their 'Not Merch' program, which focuses on creating unique, high-quality merchandise that resonates with audiences. From packaging to product selection and supply chain challenges, Tricia shares valuable insights on elevating brand identity through thoughtfully curated merchandise. Tune in for expert advice on launching a merchandise line that stands out and connects deeply with your audience.00:00 Introduction to Inventory Success Podcast00:54 Meet Tricia Rinni Vasan of Modern Brands01:53 The Concept of 'Not Merch'04:43 Creating Memorable Merchandise10:13 Understanding Your Audience for Merchandise15:55 Case Studies and Real-World Examples20:54 Balancing Product Categories and SKUs23:23 Corporate Gifting Strategies24:16 Conducting Market Research26:52 Impact of Tariffs on Manufacturing30:44 Diversifying Supply Chains36:57 Enhancing Perceived Value41:14 Key Performance Indicators for Merchandise44:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join host Mike and special guests Pranay and Hamaad from MFD in this episode of 'Tariff Thursdays' as they explore critical updates on current trade issues, including the pause on reciprocal tariffs, new trade deals, and the consequences of shifting cargo volumes from China. The discussion delves into the complexities of global trade, the impact of tariffs on SMBs and large companies, and the possibilities for future trade agreements. PNE and Hamad provide their expert insights on navigating tariff challenges, the importance of supply chain transformation, and the implications of commercial versus manufacturing origin. Learn more about MFD's offerings, including their limited-time supply chain consultations, and get ready for a deeper dive into trade regulations during their collaborative webinar with ShipBob.00:00 Welcome to Tariff Thursday00:24 Special Guests Introduction00:37 Free Supply Chain Consultations01:04 Technical Difficulties01:26 Recap of Recent Tariff Developments02:58 Discussion on Trade Agreements04:59 Impact of Tariffs on Global Trade09:18 China's Role in Global Supply Chains14:37 Substantial Transformation and Rule of Origin17:10 Challenges for Small and Medium Businesses23:15 Challenges for American Car Brands in the UK24:11 Understanding Rule of Origin and Duty Paid24:52 Technicalities of Customs Declarations26:54 Commercial vs. Manufacturing Origin31:19 Intent and Legal Implications in Trade33:02 Fraud and Loopholes in Global Trade42:02 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Webinar

In this episode, the team from Manufactured (MFD) hosts a webinar to discuss the latest challenges and strategies in supply chain management, particularly relevant to current tariff issues faced by businesses. The session features insights from Hamad, the Head of Sourcing at MFD, and PNE, who delve into how tariffs between the U.S. and China are affecting global trade, the potential shifts toward reshoring and nearshoring, and the implications for businesses of varying sizes. They also discuss the role of free zones, the importance of country of origin, and the emerging complexities in international trade. Additionally, the team answers live questions from the audience and offers free consultations to help businesses optimize their supply chains in these turbulent times.00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Webinar00:13 About Manufactured (M-F-D)00:42 Services Offered by Manufactured01:01 Free Consultations and Booking Information01:29 Introduction of Hamad and Tariff Issues01:45 Impact of Tariffs on Businesses02:55 Strategies for Dealing with Tariffs03:49 China-US Trade Dynamics06:09 China's Strategic Moves and Global Impact14:26 Country of Origin and Global Trade20:31 Complexity and Costs in Supply Chains21:00 Market Access and Pricing Power22:46 International Brands and US Market25:39 Tariffs and Trade Dynamics26:50 Nearshoring and Free Zones34:19 Future of Global Trade37:10 Conclusion and Consultation Offer

The conversation delves into the recent changes in tariff policies, exploring their geopolitical motivations and implications for global trade. The speakers discuss the impact on consumers and industries, the unpredictability of future tariffs, and the necessity for long-term strategies in response to evolving trade dynamics. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of tariffs, their implications on supply chains, and the future of manufacturing in the US. They discuss the significant increases in tariffs, the challenges businesses face in navigating these changes, and the potential economic impacts, including inflation. The conversation also touches on the strategic decisions companies must make regarding their supply chains and the role of US debt in international trade relations.• The recent tariff changes are unprecedented in their scope and impact.• Tariffs are primarily a geopolitical strategy rather than a purely economic one.• Consumers will face increased prices due to new tariffs on imports.• The methodology behind tariff rates is based on trade deficits between countries.• The elimination of certain trade agreements has significant implications for businesses.• Future tariff changes are likely as countries respond to US policies.• Long-term planning outside the US is becoming essential for global businesses.• The volatility in US trade policy creates uncertainty for international relations.• Countries are forming new alliances in response to US protectionism.• The current tariff situation reflects a shift away from open borders and standard duties.• Tariffs have significantly increased, impacting costs for businesses.• Companies must reassess their supply chains and sourcing strategies.• The focus is shifting from price to the best delivered cost.• Manufacturers need to understand their product components and origins.• US manufacturing may need to adapt to remain competitive.• Inflation is likely to rise due to increased tariffs.• Consumers may face higher prices for goods as a result of tariffs.• Strategic relocation of supply chains may not yield significant savings.• The US may negotiate tariff exemptions for essential imports.• The future of manufacturing in the US is uncertain but crucial for economic stability.

Join Mike, the community manager at MFD, as he hosts the third edition of their discussion series. MFD, an inventory success platform, aids brands in reducing costs and navigating retail logistics. In this episode, Mike introduces PNE, the CEO, and Hamad, the Head of Global Supply at MFD, to delve into the impact of tariffs on various industries. The team discusses the implications of the removal of Section 321 exemptions, the Trump administration's tariff strategies, and potential shifts in global trade dynamics. They also cover industry-specific impacts and strategies for businesses considering relocating manufacturing from China to other countries. This video is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the complexities of tariffs and their effects on global supply chains.00:00 Introduction to MFD and Hosts01:45 Overview of Tariff Impacts02:16 Section 321 Exemption Discussion03:52 Implications for US and Chinese Businesses05:01 Future of Section 321 and Tariffs14:12 Retaliatory Tariffs and Global Impact23:36 Impact on Specific Industries24:46 Impact of Tariffs on Furniture Margins25:28 Considering Moving Factories from China26:21 Analyzing Tariff Expansion to Other Countries27:07 Vietnam and Cambodia's Role in Tariff Circumvention30:53 US Strategy with EU and Tech Companies33:20 Retaliatory Tariffs and Their Implications35:00 Canadian Tariffs on Aluminum36:30 Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Impact on US Industries39:59 Future of US Manufacturing45:14 Conclusion and Contact Information

MFD is an inventory success platform that helps small and medium businesses in multiple categories whether it’s construction, CPG, soft goods, hard goods, electronics with sourcing, manufacturing, and financing their inventory.This is an update from our previous webinar two weeks ago...and already quite a bit has changed. We discuss• How These Tariffs Will Impact Supply Chain: What situations will their be increased costs?• Will Companies Change Their Sourcing Strategies?• Financial and Pricing Adjustments for SMBs: What Does it Mean For ConsumersFor more information check out manufactured.com

In this episode, Mike interviews Amy Zitelman, CEO and co-founder of Soom Foods, a leading premium tahini brand. Amy shares the journey of discovering the market gap in the U.S. for high-quality tahini, the steps taken to establish a reliable supply chain, and the strategies employed to penetrate various sales channels. The conversation delves into the dynamics of food service vs. retail, the importance of chef influence, and the nuances of working capital management in the CPG space. Tune in to learn about building brand credibility, leveraging chef endorsements, and balancing cash flow to ensure business sustainability.00:00 Introduction00:23 Meet Amy Zitelman of Soom Foods01:20 The Birth of a Tahini Business02:27 Understanding the Market and Supply Chain04:24 Challenges and Early Learnings08:16 Entering the Food Service Industry10:31 Building Brand Awareness15:47 Navigating Sales Channels26:02 Impact of COVID-1932:00 Future Plans and Final Thoughts38:05 Conclusion

MFD is an inventory success platform that helps small and medium businesses in multiple categories whether it’s construction, CPG, soft goods, hard goods, electronics with sourcing, manufacturing, and financing their inventory.In this webinar we will explore:• The New Tariff Landscape: What’s Changing?• How These Tariffs Will Impact Your Supply Chain: increased costs for raw materials, components, logistics• Sourcing Strategies: Alternative countries and domestic manufacturing• Financial and Pricing Adjustments for SMBs: Should you absorb costs or pass them on to customers?For more information check out manufactured.com

In this episode of the re:COGS podcast we dive deep into the journey of Jimmy Feeman, co-founder of NoBaked Cookie Dough. Jimmy shares the origins of their innovative product and their turbulent journey from opening retail stores to pivoting towards a direct-to-consumer (DTC) model and finally to wholesale distribution. Key highlights include challenges faced in maintaining good margins, the highs and lows of working with co-manufacturers, and the strategic pivots made during the pandemic. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with invaluable insights on scaling a CPG brand, managing operational hurdles, and the intricacies of supply chain management. Watch now for a masterclass in inventory success and business strategy! 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Meet Jimmy Feeman of No Bake Cookie Dough 00:49 The Evolution of No Bake Cookie Dough 05:54 Challenges and Insights from Running Dessert Shops 09:21 Transition to Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) and Wholesale 12:51 Supply Chain and Manufacturing Journey 18:14 Navigating Co-Manufacturing Partnerships 23:09 Navigating Command Changes and Turnkey Solutions 24:06 Pandemic Challenges and the Shift to DTC 24:58 Financial Struggles and Strategic Decisions 25:56 Revisiting Online Sales and the Lean Startup Influence 26:48 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business Models 29:31 Exploring the CPG Community and Retail Opportunities 33:52 Challenges of DTC for CPG Products 39:15 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

While working in the restaurant business, Buddy started experimenting with vodka infusions using chili peppers and other ingredients, leading to a spicy take on the classic cocktail. This creation quickly became the restaurant’s best-seller, inspiring Buddy to dream beyond the confines of the establishment. 00:00 Introduction to re:COGS 00:38 Meet the Founders of Bloody Buddy 02:46 The Origin Story of Bloody Buddy 03:46 Developing the Perfect Bloody Mary 09:22 Market Validation and Early Success 15:02 Building the Business and Vertical Integration 18:31 Distribution Strategies and Expansion 21:23 Reflecting on the Saints Deal 21:59 Expanding Beyond Bars and Restaurants 22:40 Introducing the Chili Pepper Infused Vodka 23:18 Crafting the Perfect Mexican Chocolate Espresso Martini 24:36 Managing Different Product Lines 27:22 Challenges of Rapid Expansion 29:32 Lessons Learned and Future Plans 32:21 Evaluating New Distribution Opportunities 39:16 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode Mike Gelb speaks with Martin Forde, early employee of Dr. Squatch and current retail advisor at Omnichannel Ventures. They discuss Martin's recruitment and contributions to Dr. Squatch's retail strategy, detailing the steps taken to ensure Dr. Squatch's successful expansion into big box retailers like Walmart. The conversation covers Martin's approach to retail testing, supply chain readiness, demand generation, in-store execution, and navigating price points for premium products. Martin shares insights on the critical factors for emerging brands to stand out and thrive in a competitive retail landscape. 00:00 Introduction 01:47 Martin's Journey with Dr. Squatch 04:12 Retail Strategy and Execution 09:34 Challenges and Insights in Retail 34:11 Pricing Strategy for Emerging Brands 40:55 Martin's Criteria for Working with Brands 43:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Kathrin Henon, the visionary founder and CEO of Planet Bake, joins us to share her inspiring journey of crafting the perfect sugar-free, vegan, and gluten-free donut. Catherine's story is one of innovation and determination, sparked by an "aha" moment during the pandemic when she spotted a gap in the market for healthier dessert options. Listen to her recount the meticulous nine-month process of developing her unique product, experimenting with ingredients like flax meal and psyllium husk to create a donut that is both scalable and delicious. Her German-American heritage played a pivotal role in choosing donuts as the product to launch, adding a personal touch to her brand's origin story. (0:00:00) - Building a Successful Vegan Dessert Brand" (0:14:32) - Pricing and Distribution Strategy Discussion (0:18:53) - Navigating Ingredients, Retail, and Expansion (0:25:45) - Value of Inventory and Cash Sign up for our events: https://manufactured.com/events/ This podcast is brought to by ⁠⁠MFD⁠⁠. MFD is the end to end inventory solution for brands. We can help with inventory financing, and sourcing and manufacturing consumer products. If you’re interested in learning more, check out ⁠https://manufactured.com/

Struggling with dehydration during her runs, our guest discovered an unexpected solution in her kitchen: homemade electrolyte popsicles. Inspired by her mom's passion for healthy eating, she crafted popsicles free from artificial additives and high sodium content, quickly gaining traction at local farmers markets. This journey from a personal endeavor to a thriving business unfolded during her MBA studies, where the focus was on creating a product that stood apart from competitors by avoiding the unpleasant effects of artificial sweeteners. (0:00:00) - Intro (0:01:45) - Hydration Popsicles (0:06:58) - Product Development and Expansion Strategy (0:15:19) - Supply Chain Challenges and Strategy (0:29:46) - Healthy Shelf-Stable Hydration Product Launch Sign up for our events: https://manufactured.com/events/ This podcast is brought to by ⁠⁠MFD⁠⁠. MFD is the end to end inventory solution for brands. We can help with inventory financing, and sourcing and manufacturing consumer products. If you’re interested in learning more, check out ⁠https://manufactured.com/

Discover the entrepreneurial spirit of Troy Bonde, CEO and co-founder of the innovative pasta sauce company SAUZ, as he takes us on a flavorful journey from college dreams to grocery aisle success. Troy, alongside his co-founder Winston, navigated unexpected career twists, pivoting from a hand sanitizer venture to a booming pasta sauce business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn how they infused new life into a traditional market by focusing on fresh ingredients and creative flavors, and hear about the strategic moves that catapulted SAUZ into the competitive arena of Erewhon, gaining them significant visibility and consumer validation. In this engaging conversation, Troy shares the serendipitous events and strategic relationships that shaped their manufacturing path, beginning with an opportune connection made through an academic network. By highlighting the importance of standing out in a crowded space, Troy details the challenges of aligning production processes with market demands, emphasizing the critical role of a standout product. The episode is filled with valuable insights into how Sazh has leveraged packaging, retail placement, and social media to capture the attention of a young, trend-savvy audience and make their mark in the food industry. (0:00:00) - Podcast Intro (0:01:41) - Introduction to Troy (0:02:00) - How Troy and Winston met (8:38) – Was Hot Honey the main differentiator? (0:11:32) – Finding the right manufacturer (0:18:13) – Getting into Erewhon (0:20:39) – Building a brand in different retailers (0:27:28) – How they got secondary placement in retail (0:32:51) – How they launched new SKUs in retail (0:34:53) – What would you prefer to have $100 in COGs or $100 Cash? Sign up for our events: https://manufactured.com/events/ This podcast is brought to by ⁠⁠MFD⁠⁠. MFD is the end to end inventory solution for brands. We can help with inventory financing, and sourcing and manufacturing consumer products. If you’re interested in learning more, check out ⁠https://manufactured.com/

Vanessa, a seasoned retail buyer at Target, takes us on an enlightening journey from her marketing days at Neutrogena to the intricate world of retail buying. She offers invaluable insights into the art of brand launching, emphasizing the necessity of establishing consumer demand and brand awareness before approaching major retailers. Vanessa's expertise reveals how sales figures serve as a crucial barometer for retail buyers, indicating both market fit and marketing success. Her unique perspective sheds light on the challenges of integrating direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands into physical retail spaces, highlighting the importance of translating DTC metrics into language that resonates with retail buyers. Our discussion with Vanessa delves into the strategic decisions category managers face when balancing established brands with emerging ones in a fiercely competitive retail landscape. She shares fascinating examples of innovation-driven success, like the journey of emerging brands such as Method, and underscores the need for creative decision-making to navigate the data disparities between DTC marketing and traditional retail. Vanessa's insights emphasize the power of understanding consumer behavior through interviews, which can guide strategic decisions in an omnichannel environment, leading to more effective marketing strategies. (0:00:00) - Intro (0:00:09) - Retail Buying and DTC Brand Launching (0:07:21) - Retail Strategy and Customer Insights (0:22:56) - Retail Expansion and Consumer Insights (0:30:19) - Femme Health and Retail Marketing (0:34:50) - Retail Buyer Margins and Product Discovery (0:45:30) - Retail Profitability and Sales Strategy (0:56:38) - Product Assortment Strategy and Exclusivity (1:04:38) - Retail Inventory and Financing Solutions (1:13:28) - Flexible Retail Terms and Inventory Financing Sign up for our events: https://manufactured.com/events/ This podcast is brought to by ⁠⁠MFD⁠⁠. MFD is the end to end inventory solution for brands. We can help with inventory financing, and sourcing and manufacturing consumer products. If you’re interested in learning more, check out ⁠https://manufactured.com/

Dan Stephenson, the co-founder and COO of Daily Crunch, joins us to share an inspiring story of growth and resilience. What began as a simple idea sparked by Diane's journey in India, learning about the brain health advantages of sprouting nuts, has blossomed into a thriving snacking business. As the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Daily Crunch had to quickly pivot from traditional retail to online sales through Amazon and subscription boxes. Hear Dan's insights into how an organic growth strategy, shunning traditional paid advertising, allowed them to effectively connect with consumers and find their unique path to success. Sign up for our events: https://manufactured.com/events/ This podcast is brought to by ⁠⁠MFD⁠⁠. MFD is the end to end inventory solution for brands. We can help with inventory financing, and sourcing and manufacturing consumer products. If you’re interested in learning more, check out ⁠https://manufactured.com/