Tech Talks: Evolving Distribution

Dason Fujimoto: The Truth About AI in Distribution (No One Says This)

Digital transformation isn’t failing because of technology……it’s failing because of how companies implement it.In this episode of Tech Talks: Evolving Distribution, Corey Hayes and Bill Rosado sit down with Dason Fujimoto of Inter-Island Solar Supply to break down what actually works—and what doesn’t.We cover:Why AI is overhyped in distribution right nowThe real reason ERP and CRM projects failHow to build trust and get team buy-inWhy support is more important than softwareThe #1 rule: invest in your team before your technologyDason shares real-world experience leading transformation inside a 50+ year-old distribution company—and what it actually takes to modernize without breaking your team.If you're leading ERP decisions, digital strategy, or operations—this episode will hit close to home.👉 Subscribe for more conversations with distribution leaders navigating real-world change👉 Listen / Watch the full episodeDistribution technology, ERP implementation, CRM for distributors, digital transformation in distribution, B2B eCommerce, AI in distribution, change management, ERP failure, SaaS in distribution, industrial distribution strategy

Stop Blaming Your ERP — Here’s the Real Problem: Stellar One Acumatica Cloud ERP

Most distributors think their ERP system is the problem.It’s not.In this episode of Tech Talks: Evolving Distribution, we sit down with Richard Seller, Founder & CEO of StellarOne, to break down why digital transformation projects actually fail—and what businesses get wrong when implementing new technology.We cover:Why ERP systems are becoming commoditiesThe critical role of implementation partnersWhy customization creates long-term problemsThe truth about AI in distributionAnd why people—not technology—determine successIf you're evaluating ERP, CRM, or digital transformation strategies, this episode will change how you think.🔗 Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14580708/📩 Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter: Subscribe on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7325520937678708736https://www.stellarone.io/https://www.aldrichsolutions.com/

Why Most CRM Projects Fail in Distribution (And How to Fix It) James Gerdes, Founder of WebPresented

Digital transformation is sweeping across the distribution industry—but are companies adopting the right technology, or just chasing the latest trend?In this episode of Tech Talks: Evolving Distribution, hosts Corey Hayes and Bill Rosado sit down with James Gerdes, President and Founder of WebPresented, to unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in modern distribution: CRM adoption and the true role of technology in sales performance.James brings a unique perspective to the conversation. With roots in management consulting at PricewaterhouseCoopers and enterprise software at Infor, he witnessed firsthand how distributors rely heavily on ERP systems while their sales teams often lack the tools needed to manage relationships, opportunities, and customer insights.That realization led to the founding of WebPresented, a CRM platform built specifically for wholesale distributors.In this episode, the conversation dives deep into the real challenges distributors face when implementing technology, including:• Why many CRM implementations fail—even with “best-in-class” platforms• The biggest digital transformation mistake distributors make• How automation and AI can actually create more problems without clear processes• The hidden difference between ERP data and real sales intelligence• Why “customer health” may be the most important metric distributors aren’t tracking• How CRM can reveal insights about sales performance you may not expectJames also shares a fascinating real-world story of a distributor who believed their top salesperson was driving massive growth—until CRM data revealed something very different.Whether you're a distributor exploring CRM for the first time or a sales leader looking to improve visibility into your team’s performance, this conversation delivers practical insights on how to approach technology, process, and customer relationships the right way.Learn more about WebPresented:https://webpresented.comAbout Tech Talks: Evolving DistributionTech Talks explores how technology, e-commerce, and digital transformation are reshaping the distribution industry. Each episode features industry experts sharing practical strategies to help distributors modernize their operations and stay competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace.New episodes are released every Tuesday and Thursday.Listen on:• YouTube• Spotify• Apple PodcastsSubscribe to the Tech Talks Evolving Distribution LinkedIn Newsletter to stay updated on new episodes and insights.Sponsored by Aldrich Web SolutionsFor over 20 years, Aldrich Web Solutions has helped distributors win online with powerful eCommerce platforms, digital strategy, and web development solutions built specifically for B2B distribution.Learn more:https://aldrichsolutions.com#Distribution #DigitalTransformation #CRM #WholesaleDistribution #B2BCommerce #SalesLeadership #TechTalks

Why Generic ERPs are Costing Distributors Thousands | Tech Talks featuring Tom Knoebel from Tribute

In this episode of Tech Talks: Evolving Distribution, host Corey Hayes sits down with Tom Knoebel, President of Tribute Inc., to discuss the critical role of specialized technology in the fluid power and industrial distribution sectors.With over 35 years of experience—starting from the warehouse floor to the C-suite—Tom shares why "generic" software like QuickBooks often hinders growth for scaling businesses. They dive deep into:The Power of Niche ERPs: Why having a system designed specifically for hose and hydraulic assemblies prevents "leaving money on the table."Overcoming the "Change Management" Hurdle: How to gain employee buy-in when transitioning to more advanced digital tools.Distraction vs. Action: Why focusing on external economic noise (tariffs and volatility) can distract leaders from necessary internal investments.The Human Element: How technology actually strengthens customer relationships rather than replacing them.Labor Shortages: Using automation and tech to scale your business without the constant need to add headcount.Key Takeaway: If you aren't managing your inventory and processes digitally in 2026, you aren't just falling behind—you’re becoming "rattleable" in an increasingly volatile market.

Is Your Distribution Business Over-Promising: Mastering Last Mile Delivery with Charlie Hansen DQT

How do you compete with the "Amazon Experience" without actually being Amazon?In this episode of Tech Talks: Evolving Distribution, hosts Corey Hayes and Bill Rosado sit down with Charlie Hansen, President of DQ Technologies, to pull back the curtain on the digital transformation of last-mile delivery.Many distributors make the mistake of adding "shiny" new tools—like AI routing or tracking apps—only to find they’ve simply "optimized chaos." Charlie explains why the secret to thriving in today’s market isn't just about faster trucks or better GPS; it’s about eliminating the "black hole" of communication through deep ERP integration.In this episode, we discuss:The Amazon Effect: Why customer expectations have shifted and how to meet them without breaking your budget.Integration vs. Isolation: Why standalone tools often create more distraction than value.The "Black Hole" of Delivery: How to move from reactive customer service to proactive, real-time updates.ROI of Trust: Why accurate, system-driven communication is more valuable than fuel savings alone.The "Aha" Moment: Transitioning delivery from a back-end cost center to a front-end competitive advantage.Whether you are struggling with delivery friction or looking to tighten your digital ecosystem, Charlie’s 20+ years of industry experience provide a roadmap for executing with precision.About Our Guest:Charlie Hansen is the President of DQ Technologies (DQT), a leader in providing delivery and fleet management solutions specifically tailored for the distribution industry. With over two decades of experience, Charlie helps businesses bridge the gap between their ERP systems and the final mile.Connect with Tech Talks:Sponsor: Aldrich Web Solutions – https://www.aldrichweb.comSubscribe: Don’t miss an episode! Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.#Distribution #Logistics #LastMileDelivery #DigitalTransformation #ERP #SupplyChain #TechTalks #DQTechnologies