The Supply House Times Podcast

AI integration myth busting with Brooks Hamilton

In this episode, Brooks Hamilton breaks down how distributors can start using AI today without perfect data. He explains why speed and decision-making matter more than scale, how AI is lowering the barrier to entry, and why the biggest opportunities lie in sales growth, not cost-cutting. Practical examples show how even small investments can drive meaningful competitive advantage.

CPS Products on What HVACR Performance Requires Now

In this episode, we explore the real-world challenges technicians face in the field, including workflow demands, jobsite efficiency and the pressure to do more with less time. Along the way, CPS Products shares how it approaches innovation with a practical, end-user mindset — balancing new technology with durability, usability and consistent results. Sponsored by:

Speed, assortment and the art of saying yes: Behind SupplyHouse.com's merchandising and fulfillment engine

In this episode of And So It Flows, Jennifer Harrison, vice president of merchandising, and Kaytee Gray, vice president of fulfillment operations at SupplyHouse.com, offer a behind-the-scenes look at how digital merchandising and fulfillment strategies are evolving to meet the needs of today’s contractors. Harrison explains how online merchandising removes friction for pros in the field by putting expert-level product information directly at their fingertips. By leveraging customer search behavior, curated product data, and simplified navigation, SupplyHouse.com helps tradespeople quickly identify the right products without becoming overwhelmed — reducing “analysis paralysis” and supporting confident, on-the-job decision-making.

Real-time answers under jobsite pressure: How AI is shaping distribution

In this episode of And So It Flows, Tim Savage, electrical outside sales representative at Locke Supply Co., shares a ground-level view of how artificial intelligence is actually being used in distribution today. With firsthand experience in the trades — including electrical, HVAC and general contracting — Savage understands the urgency contractors face when materials, answers or substitutions are needed immediately.

All hands on deck: Technical training for the next generation of pros

In this episode of And So It Flows, host Natalie Forster sits down with Spencer Pope, manager of technical support and training at Bradford White, to explore how education and workforce development are evolving across the plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical trades. Drawing on nearly 15 years with the manufacturer—and a background as a service contractor—Pope outlines the industry’s most pressing skills gaps, particularly the growing shortage of technical expertise as experienced technicians retire and fewer new workers enter the field with hands-on foundations.