Think warehouses are filled with robots and high-tech automation? The reality might surprise you. In this episode, inventory control specialist Joshua Neuman pulls back the curtain on the warehouse industry, revealing why most companies still rely on pen, paper, and Excel—despite the constant buzz around automation.

From his military logistics experience to managing inventory in manufacturing, Joshua shares why high-tech solutions often fail, how poor planning leads to wasted investments, and what truly makes a warehouse efficient. He dives into the key role of company culture, why SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) matter more than fancy software, and the real difference between Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Inventory Management.

Key Takeaways:

• Why automation adoption is slower than expected
• The biggest mistakes companies make when implementing new tech
• How company culture impacts efficiency
• SOPs: The backbone of every successful warehouse
• WMS vs. Inventory Management

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:46 Joshua’s background & career journey

06:47 Excel and pen-and-paper in modern warehouses

10:09 Low-automation warehouses vs. high-tech solutions

15:12 Barriers to automation adoption in warehouses

17:11 Importance of company culture in warehouse efficiency

18:35 Handling seasonal demand and temp labor challenges

22:43 Building SOP documentation base & training new hires

26:55 Incorporating new software into the existing ecosystem

36:14 Warehouse Management vs. Inventory Management

38:19 Implementing technology without disrupting workflow

45:00 Joshua’s future in logistics and career goals

46:35 Advice for young professionals in warehouse management

In this episode, we talk to Adam Petrus from Zebra, the company that provides the RFID technology behind the NFL's Next Gen Stats program. Adam explains how Zebra's cutting-edge tracking system allows the league to capture incredibly detailed data on player and ball movements in real time.

From measuring the speed and distance of a 105-yard kickoff return to helping coaches optimize player performance in practice, Adam shares how Zebra's solutions are transforming the way football is played and analyzed. He also discusses the potential for this technology to be used in other sports, like the World Cup, and the importance of balancing data-driven insights with the human element that makes sports so compelling.

Throughout the conversation, Adam's expertise and enthusiasm for sports technology shine through, making this an engaging listen for any fan interested in the intersection of sports and innovation.

Timestamps:

01:26 Zebra's Role in NFL and AWS Partnership

06:19 Adam’s background and career journey

09:22 Implementation and Logistics of Zebra's NFL Partnership

15:19 Future plans and potential actions

22:53 The use of AI for data analysis

25:38 The use of Zebra in NCAA

32:37 Zebra’s role in World Cup planning

35:16 Zebra in international sport events

39:24 Zebra’s role in other sports leagues and entertainment space

41:50 Can all those data have a negative impact?

44:03 The most rewarding part of the job

45:51 Final thoughts on partnership with Zebra

In this episode, we talk to Jerry Abiog, co-founder of Standard Insights, about his journey into AI and the challenges of convincing businesses to adopt these technologies.

Jerry shares how AI can revolutionize inventory management and customer experience, providing concrete examples of the cost savings and revenue opportunities it can unlock. He also addresses concerns about data privacy and the future of the warehousing industry.

Throughout the conversation, Jerry's entrepreneurial spirit shines as he shares his personal drive to innovate and build a lasting legacy, offering advice to fellow entrepreneurs. Tune in now!

Timestamps:

00:45 Journey to the founding of Standard Insights

03:53 Early challenges and market conditions

10:37 The future of AI in warehousing

13:56 AI and data privacy concerns

16:05 Convincing companies to adopt AI-driven solutions

19:00 Technologies with the biggest impact on the warehousing industry

21:24 One piece of advice for entrepreneurs

22:34 Standard Insights’ legacy and future goals