MFD Pod

MFD
  • 5.0 (2)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED DAILY

Welcome to the MFD Pod, the podcast about inventory management, supply chain and and the fundamentals of operations for consumer brand owners. I’ll be your host, Mike Gelb, where we will learn about how the top consumer brand owners and operators think about production expansion as they scale.

  1. 10/30/2025

    Scaling Healthy Snacks: Insights from Chomps' SVP of Operations, Jason Dols

    In this episode of the MFD Pod, host Mike interviews Jason Dols, the Senior Vice President of Operations at Chomps, a leading healthy meat snack brand. Jason shares his in-depth expertise on how Chomps manages its intricate supply chain, from sourcing and manufacturing to inventory control. The discussion covers vital topics like managing inventory cycles, supply chain strategies, demand planning, and how Chomps balances inventory to prevent overextending. Jason provides valuable insights into the metrics Chomps uses, such as weeks of supply, to ensure they meet future demand effectively. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in operations, supply chain management, and scaling a CPG business.00:00 Introduction to the MFD Pod00:07 Meet Jason Dols from Chomps01:22 Jason's Role and Responsibilities at Chomps02:10 Deep Dive into Inventory Management03:21 Understanding Weeks of Supply

    45 min

  2. 10/30/2025

    DUDE Wipes Recap Episode with Pranay Srinivasan and Kam Lasater

    In this episode, we recap our conversation about the integration and application of AI and large language models (LLMs) within the operations of DUDE Wipes. The discussion features Pranay Srinivasan and Kam Lasater00:00 Introduction to DUDE Wipes and AI00:42 Understanding AI vs. LLMs04:00 Exploring RPA Bots and AI Agents07:57 Building Effective AI Agents20:23 Challenges of Data Integration23:50 The Future of MCP and AI Integration35:18 Adopting AI in Organizations44:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    45 min
  3. Transforming Operations with AI: Inside DUDE Wipes' Innovative Journey with Greg Brown

    09/18/2025

    Transforming Operations with AI: Inside DUDE Wipes' Innovative Journey with Greg Brown

    In this episode of the MFD Pod, host Mike Gelb and guest co-host Pranay speak with Greg Brown, VP of Operations at DUDE Wipes, about how the company is integrating AI into its operations. They discuss the initial experimentation with AI tools, specifically ChatGPT, and the subsequent creation of AI agents like Diesel Dan to optimize logistics and streamline processes. The conversation covers the practical aspects of embedding AI into company culture, the challenges and benefits of using AI in small to medium-sized businesses, and the future potential of AI technology in operations. 00:00 Introduction to the MFD Pod 01:06 Greg Brown's AI Journey 02:07 PNE's AI Experimentation 04:09 Integrating AI into Dude Wipes 06:51 Challenges and Learnings 12:10 Creating Diesel Dan 22:25 Types of AI Agents 23:12 Starting with AI in Creative Work 23:28 Building and Using AI Agents 24:46 Diesel Dan's Role and Interactions 26:50 Integrating AI with Existing Systems 28:37 Experimenting with New AI Protocols 30:09 Manufactured's AI Journey 36:15 Future of AI Agents 38:49 Choosing the Right AI Partners 41:55 In-House AI Development 43:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    44 min

  4. 08/04/2025

    Navigating International Expansion: Insights from Alex Yancher, CEO of Passport Shipping

    In this episode of the Inventory Success Podcast, host Mike Gelb interviews Alex Yancher, co-founder and CEO of Passport Shipping. They explore how Passport Shipping helps D2C and marketplace businesses expand internationally by handling shipping and logistics. Alex shares the initial inspiration behind Passport Shipping, the complexities of international shipping, and their unique approach to solving these challenges. They also discuss when it makes sense for brands to go international, the role of tariffs, and the benefits of having an integrated end-to-end solution for global logistics.00:00 Introduction to Recos Podcast00:27 Meet Alex Yancher, CEO of Passport Shipping01:56 The Birth of Passport Shipping04:27 Challenges in International Shipping07:21 The Role of Passport in E-commerce15:31 When to Go International24:57 Impact of Tariffs and International Trade31:07 Clearing Misconceptions About International Shipping34:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    36 min

  5. 07/19/2025

    Trade Thursday: Part 8

    Join Mike, the community manager at Manufactured (MFD), along with PNE and Hamad, as they delve into the complexities of sourcing, financing, and managing inventory across 25 countries and multiple industries. This episode tackles the impact of recent trade tariffs and geopolitical tensions on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Discover how companies can navigate the uncertainty, understand their supply chains better, and effectively plan for the future. Learn about counter-sourcing, free trade zones, and the crucial distinctions between country of origin and country of export. Special topics include the latest tariff updates, the influence of geopolitical factors on trade, and strategies for maintaining stability and predictability in a fluctuating market.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:13 Understanding MFD's Role in Global Trade00:51 Expert Insights on Supply Chain Management02:11 Navigating Tariffs and Trade Agreements02:38 Strategies for SMBs in an Uncertain Trade Environment08:58 Approaches to Counter Sourcing12:05 Challenges in Counter Sourcing20:26 Impact of Tariffs on Industries23:23 Understanding Transshipment and Its Implications23:47 Vietnam's Trade Deals and Tariff Impacts24:47 Examples and Consequences of Transshipment30:26 Country of Origin vs. Country of Export31:56 USMCA and Its Effects on Trade34:27 Supply Chain Challenges and Opportunities38:45 Global Tariff Surprises and Geopolitical Impacts42:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    43 min

  6. 06/27/2025

    Epic Growth: The Strategy Behind Kevin Espiritu’s Gardening Empire

    In this episode of the re:COGs, we sit down with Kevin Espiritu, founder of Epic Gardening.Kevin shares the story behind the brand's evolution from a hydroponic gardening blog to a flourishing YouTube channel and e-commerce venture. They explore Kevin's journey as a multi-platform content creator, his transition into the world of consumer products, the challenges of scaling a media-driven e-commerce business, and the strategic acquisitions that fueled Epic Gardening's growth. Tune in to learn about content to commerce strategies, operational challenges, and the value of a strong product-validation process.00:00 Introduction to the Inventory Success Podcast00:25 Epic Gardening: From Blog to YouTube Phenomenon01:59 Kevin's Journey: From Hobby to Full-Time Gardener04:06 Transition to YouTube and Viral Growth07:06 Launching the Product Line11:31 Navigating E-commerce and Logistics18:56 Acquiring Botanical Interests and Seed Business Insights24:52 Expanding the Wholesale Seed Business25:28 Leveraging Content for Product Validation26:20 The Content to Commerce Flywheel27:02 Navigating Amazon and Product Naming28:53 Subtle Product Placement Strategies30:14 Gross Margins and Unit Economics31:26 Product Assortment and Launch Strategies36:11 Challenges in Scaling Operations37:23 Reaching Garden Designers and Installers38:47 Future Growth and Product Categories41:43 Financial Shifts and Cash Flow Management45:43 Hiring and Operational Challenges49:48 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    51 min
  7. How to 3X your Sales Making Products that are NOT MERCH... with Tricia Srinivasan

    06/11/2025

    How to 3X your Sales Making Products that are NOT MERCH... with Tricia Srinivasan

    This episode features Tricia Srinivasan, founder of Modern Brands, who introduces their 'Not Merch' program, which focuses on creating unique, high-quality merchandise that resonates with audiences. From packaging to product selection and supply chain challenges, Tricia shares valuable insights on elevating brand identity through thoughtfully curated merchandise. Tune in for expert advice on launching a merchandise line that stands out and connects deeply with your audience.00:00 Introduction to Inventory Success Podcast00:54 Meet Tricia Rinni Vasan of Modern Brands01:53 The Concept of 'Not Merch'04:43 Creating Memorable Merchandise10:13 Understanding Your Audience for Merchandise15:55 Case Studies and Real-World Examples20:54 Balancing Product Categories and SKUs23:23 Corporate Gifting Strategies24:16 Conducting Market Research26:52 Impact of Tariffs on Manufacturing30:44 Diversifying Supply Chains36:57 Enhancing Perceived Value41:14 Key Performance Indicators for Merchandise44:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    45 min

  8. 06/10/2025

    Tariff Thursday Part 6: How SMBs Are Adjusting to Change

    Join host Mike and special guests Pranay and Hamaad from MFD in this episode of 'Tariff Thursdays' as they explore critical updates on current trade issues, including the pause on reciprocal tariffs, new trade deals, and the consequences of shifting cargo volumes from China. The discussion delves into the complexities of global trade, the impact of tariffs on SMBs and large companies, and the possibilities for future trade agreements. PNE and Hamad provide their expert insights on navigating tariff challenges, the importance of supply chain transformation, and the implications of commercial versus manufacturing origin. Learn more about MFD's offerings, including their limited-time supply chain consultations, and get ready for a deeper dive into trade regulations during their collaborative webinar with ShipBob.00:00 Welcome to Tariff Thursday00:24 Special Guests Introduction00:37 Free Supply Chain Consultations01:04 Technical Difficulties01:26 Recap of Recent Tariff Developments02:58 Discussion on Trade Agreements04:59 Impact of Tariffs on Global Trade09:18 China's Role in Global Supply Chains14:37 Substantial Transformation and Rule of Origin17:10 Challenges for Small and Medium Businesses23:15 Challenges for American Car Brands in the UK24:11 Understanding Rule of Origin and Duty Paid24:52 Technicalities of Customs Declarations26:54 Commercial vs. Manufacturing Origin31:19 Intent and Legal Implications in Trade33:02 Fraud and Loopholes in Global Trade42:02 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Webinar

    43 min
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About

Welcome to the MFD Pod, the podcast about inventory management, supply chain and and the fundamentals of operations for consumer brand owners. I’ll be your host, Mike Gelb, where we will learn about how the top consumer brand owners and operators think about production expansion as they scale.

Information

  • Creator
    MFD
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    99
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © MFD
  • Show Website
    MFD Pod