Is AI just another buzzword in the ERP world, or is there real value for manufacturers and distributors? In this episode, Brad Feakes, President and Partner at Estes Group, shares 20 years of hard-earned insights about what AI really means for ERP systems—and why most companies are thinking about it wrong.

Estes Group is a leading provider of ERP consulting, IT, and cloud managed services based in Loveland, Colorado and, with two decades in the industry, Brad brings his practical, no-nonsense advice for businesses navigating digital transformation. Tune in to discover why AI needs a body, not just a brain, and how to build a smart integration strategy that actually delivers results!

Our guest on this episode is Carolyn Hunt, an independent consultant specializing in Epicor Prophet 21 implementation with over 50 years of experience in industrial distribution. She sits down with Karthik to share her unique perspective on how the distribution industry evolved from manual processes to embracing modern ERP systems, third-party integrations, and AI technology. Learn how Prophet 21 transformed from proprietary hardware systems to today's web-based solutions, and discover why successful distributors focus on growing their business through technology without losing the human touch that builds lasting customer relationships.

Carolyn reveals practical insights from her decades of consulting experience, including how she's helped countless businesses transition from paper-based accounting to fully integrated ERP systems. She discusses the critical role of system integrations, why no single ERP can do everything, and how platforms like DCKAP Integrator enable distributors to connect best-of-breed solutions. This conversation also explores the balance between AI automation and maintaining personal relationships in an industry built on trust and service.

New employees often have high expectations for office technology, but many companies struggle to meet those expectations. It's crucial to maintain those expectations in the workplace, not lower them just because it's "business tech".

In this not-to-miss episode, Stephan Fulop, Chief Product & Technology Officer at DSG, highlights the challenges of information technology in creating a smart office environment, and ensuring that the office runs smoothly and efficiently using high quality business technology, and much more!

Our recent guest, Pete Chrobak, is the Chief Financial Officer at Duncan-Parnell. In this conversation with Karthik Chidambaram, he shares strategic insights about Duncan-Parnell, from its origins to its pathway to the future. From his background to his approach to managing finances, we hear why his role is more than just about money. They talk about how the company focuses on maintaining a healthy cash flow and strategically plans for business growth, helping to drive the company's long-term success. They also discuss how smart investing can make a big impact. Watch to the end, and don't miss out on all the great advice in this episode!

Many technology companies are continuing to discuss artificial intelligence, but are they missing the practical applications? In this episode, Frank Heenan emphasizes the need to understand real-world use cases for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.

In many cases, it calls for ERP systems to become more condensed and useful, focusing on actual job functions and machine learning. Tune in to better understand some of the practical ways that AI can help boost efficiency!

In this episode of the Driven by DCKAP podcast, our guest is David Bauders, the CEO of SPARXIQ and Trade Hounds.

In this conversation with Karthik Chidambaram, Bauders explains how SPARXIQ, a pioneer in price optimization since 1993, helps manufacturers and distributors capture value by analyzing transactional data to understand price sensitivity and optimize profitability.

He also delves into Trade Hounds, which has evolved from a social app for Gen Z’ers into a thriving social B2B marketplace, while touching on the integration of Wrangld's functionality into the Trade Hounds app in order to cover the entire estimating-to-cash cycle for users.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation that highlights the importance of optimizing pricing by mastering data and converting that data into dollars!

In this interview, Karthik sits down with Cole Mercier from DSG to uncover his unique role as Communications Manager, and how DSG is revolutionizing the skilled trades industry. He shares how DSG, a 100-year-old, 100% employee-owned wholesale distributor, is tackling the evolving landscape of communications, training and supporting tradespeople, and investing in the next generation.

Learn why product knowledge and local connections are key in this dynamic industry. Plus, discover how DSG is actively combating the trades gap through scholarships and innovative career academies!

Our latest guest is Brian Wild, the Chief Government Relations Officer at NAW (the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors). During his conversation with Karthik while attending the NAW Executive Summit, he talked about his role at NAW, making the move to Washington, D.C. with aspirations to make a difference, and what it takes to be an effective lobbyist, driven by his foundational belief in the principles of capitalism. Brian shares his genuine excitement about the world of politics, viewing it as a 'contact sport' that demands ongoing and active engagement, along with his voracious appetite for staying on top of current events, showcasing the strength of his commitment to political science, the support of industry growth, and what it takes to be the voice representing the best interests of the very businesses that make up the backbone of our economy.