Scott Attman, the Vice President of Acme Paper and Supply Company, joins the podcast this week to talk with Karthik Chidambaram, CEO of DCKAP, all about growing and meeting customer needs in the distribution industry. In their conversation, we hear insights on the volume of distribution Acme Paper and Supply has evolved into, learning more about their philosophy on product diversification, the role of value-added services, how advancing technology, AI and automation play a role in the evolution of distribution, and much more!

Steven Levy, VP of Enterprise Architecture at Infor, sits down with Karthik Chidambaram to discuss pivotal topics in the world of distribution with technology and business strategy. They delve into automation, ERP software solutions, and the critical distinctions between innovation and differentiation.

Discover how businesses can accelerate growth in today's dynamic marketplace and explore the secrets to success from a seasoned expert whose extensive experience in the industry provides invaluable insights. With a focus on best practices and strategies, this conversation offers a unique lens on navigating the complexities of modern enterprise architecture while working closely with leading distributors.

Joining us for this deep diving episode is Brooks Hamilton, Founder of AI Strategy Advisors, to talk about cutting-edge innovation, game-changing trends, navigating challenges, and more.

Artificial intelligence is transforming industries across the globe. As more and more businesses implement AI in distribution, it's essential to understand the implications of this technology on your operations, customers, and employees. Karthik and Brooks explore key insights you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.

Eric Chernik, the CEO of Building Controls & Solutions, joins us on this episode to break down how to navigate challenges and success, cultivating leadership and growth, utilizing technology effectively, strategizing for your long term goals and continually driving towards them, and more.

Tune in to gain an invaluable perspective on leading a team to the top!

Kevin Weadick, the CEO of FleetPride, joins this episode to share his journey of over two decades in experience leading teams in digital transformations, industrial product management and marketing, and being appointed to his current role leading for the largest distributor of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts in North America.

Their discussion offers valuable insights about organizational effectiveness and efficiency, improvement strategies in modern business operations, exploring how decision making and organizational culture shapes successful enterprise outcomes, and demonstrating how process improvement methods can drive sustainable growth.

Jim Derry, the CEO of Field Fastener joins this episode to share his journey in distribution, to discuss key leadership insights and explore essential personal development strategies. We learn how an industry pioneer turned a company with humble beginnings into a great success, while continuing to see amazing growth and becoming a touchstone to the community.

Through knowledge management practices and professional development approaches, we hear how a successful leader navigates challenges and fosters growth. Listen in on their conversation to hear more about some of these transformative methods that drive organizational success, inspire lifelong learning and sustainable business evolution.

Eric Hoplin, the President and CEO of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), sits down with Karthik Chidambaram while in Washington DC at the NAW Executive Summit for an insightful discussion on the conference, the organization and their dedication to the betterment of distribution, as well as his positive future outlook on the industry.

In the premiere episode of the 2025 season of the Driven by DCKAP podcast, Founder and CEO of DCKAP, Karthik Chidambaram, sits down with Kathryn Poehling Seymour, the President and CEO of First Supply. As a longstanding family-owned leader in the industry, First Supply serves as a comprehensive supplier for plumbing, HVAC, municipal needs, waterworks, well and septic systems, building PVF, and industrial supplies.

With over 125 years of family business legacy behind her, Kathryn is at the forefront of steering the business into the future. In this insightful conversation, she discusses her journey within the business, their comprehensive succession planning, the significance of preserving family legacy, the vital role of community engagement, job creation alongside automation and emerging technologies in the industry, and more.