Secret Life of Inventory

inFlow Inventory
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A show where we delve deep into the unseen world of inventory management, revealing the hidden mysteries that help small businesses (like you) optimize their workflow and succeed! © Created by inFlow Inventory. 

  1. 19 NOV

    Inside the Warehouse: Mastering Inventory Control & Operations (ft. Kevin Lawton)

    What’s really happening behind the scenes of modern warehouses? How are companies using AI, sustainability strategies, and smart inventory practices to stay ahead? In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Lawton, host of The New Warehouse, to uncover the trends, strategies, and stories shaping today’s warehouse operations. Topics Covered: • Kevin’s inspiration and lessons from hosting The New Warehouse • Emerging trends in warehousing and AI solutions • Inventory control best practices and warehouse layout tips • Sustainability and standardization strategies • Risk management and creative approaches to returns • Metrics that matter and what’s next in the industry Whether you’re running a warehouse, managing inventory, or curious about logistics, this episode is packed with actionable insights! ⬇️ Follow Kevin!  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinclawton/ https://www.thenewwarehouse.com/ 0:00 - Teaser 0:15 - Intro 1:57 - Kevin's backstory 3:44 - What inspired you to start The New Warehouse? 9:24 - Are there any exciting trends in warehousing? 17:56 - What AI solutions are making a real impact? 19:41 - How are midsize vs. large operations adapting differently? 23:09 - What big changes have you seen in the past decade? 23:09 - Can you share sustainability tips in warehousing? 27:37 - What are best practices for inventory control? 34:37 - What are common warehouse layout mistakes? 38:19 - What does standardization look like in a warehouse? 44:50 - How does quality assurance look like in a warehouse? 48:15 - What's often overlooked in risk management? 54:21 - What are creative strategies for managing returns? 1:02:34 - What metrics matter when managing returns? 1:03:43 - Rapid fire questions 1:04:44 - Which podcast episodes would you recommend? 1:05:52 - What exciting things are coming up next? 1:07:01 - Outro Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://twitter.com/inflowinventory #inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #secretlifeofinventory #warehousing #thenewawarehouse #thenewwarehousepodcast #supplychain #logistics #AIinWarehousing #sustainability

    1 h y 8 min

  2. 27 OCT

    Inventory Isn’t Just Math—It’s Strategy (ft. Effective Inventory Management, Inc.)

    Inventory can make or break a business, but managing it isn’t just about crunching numbers—it’s about strategy. In this episode, we're joined by the inventory legend, Jon Schreibfeder, President of Effective Inventory Management (EIM) and author of Achieving Effective Inventory Management (now in its 7th edition). With over 45 years of experience guiding thousands of companies worldwide, Jon shares practical insights that help businesses rethink their approach to stock. We cover: • How to decide which products deserve a spot in your inventory • Identifying and eliminating obsolete or unwanted stock • Common causes of stockouts, and how to balance sporadic vs. steady demand • Forecasting mistakes and how to improve accuracy • Adjusting for lead times and safety stock in uncertain conditions • The EOQ formula: what it is and when it works • Best practices for replenishment and how software/automation fits in • Warehouse layout, habits, and cycle counting made easier • Which KPIs actually matter when measuring success • ROI timelines and where Jon sees the future of inventory management If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I carrying too much stock—or not enough?” this episode is packed with frameworks, strategies, and stories to help you find the right balance. 📖 Resources: • Follow Jon! https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-schreibfeder-7433524/ • Calculate your carrying cost: https://effectiveinventory.com/inventory-management-tools/carrying-cost/ • Sell excess inventory (in the U.S.): https://www.warehousetwo.com/ 0:00 - Intro 1:40 - How did you get into the world of inventory? 2:56 - What inspired you to start Effective Inventory Management Inc? 4:47 - What are common misconceptions in inventory? 5:57 - What do your services include at EIM? 7:00 - What’s one of your most memorable client stories? 11:05 - What are the most common inventory challenges? 12:16 - How do businesses decide what items truly deserve a place in their inventory? 18:27 - How do you identify obsolete inventory? 20:57 - What’s the best way to get rid of unwanted stock? 23:01 - Which sites do you recommend selling on? 23:33 - What’s the most common reason to run out of stock?  23:50 - How do you handle sporadic vs. steady demand? 30:45 - Where do most businesses go wrong with demand forecasting? 32:51 - The meaning of usage, sales, and disbursements 35:28 - How should businesses adjust for lead times and safety stock? 42:30 - Are there common traps companies fall into while chasing incentives? 40:04 - What is the EOQ formula and how is it used? 50:55 - What should you consider in the replenishment process? 51:10 - What role do software and automation play? 57:26 - What do you look for in a warehouse? 1:00:06 - What operational habit or process should warehouse teams adopt? 1:03:03 - How do you make cycle counting easier? 1:08:06 - How do you measure success with KPIs? 1:17:09 - How long does it usually take for clients to see ROI? 1:19:18 - Where do you see the future of inventory management? Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://twitter.com/inflowinventory #inventory #inventorymanagement #demandforecasting #effectiveinventorymanagementinc #inflow #inflowinventory

    1 h y 24 min

  3. 6 OCT

    How to Navigate U.S.-Canada Tariffs (ft. BDC's Director of Economic Research)

    Trade policies and tariffs can be overwhelming, but they have a real impact on your bottom line. BDC’s Director of Economic Research, Arnaud Franco, breaks down exactly what SMBs (small to medium-sized businesses) need to know to navigate U.S.-Canada trade with confidence. Arnaud walks us through why tariffs exist, how they impact different industries, and what compliance really looks like. Plus, he shares practical strategies for managing inventory, optimizing supply chains, and running daily operations more smoothly. Whether you’re running your first small business or looking to refine your operations, this episode of the Secret Life of Inventory is packed with actionable insights to help you make smarter, more informed decisions in today’s economic landscape. 🇨🇦 Resources:  • How to Tackle Tariffs: https://www.bdc.ca/tariffs • Consulting: https://www.bdc.ca/en/consulting • Export Development Canada: https://www.edc.ca/ 0:00 - Teaser 0:15 - Intro 1:35 - How did you get into economics? 3:21 - What is the definition of economics? 4:11 - What does economic research look like? 5:37 - Why would governments implement tariffs? 7:59 - What’s the current situation between the U.S. and Canada? 12:49 - What tariff trends should business owners pay attention to? 14:10 - Is the paperwork compliance process difficult? 14:56 - What are the common misconceptions about tariffs or trade policies? 15:53 - How should businesses navigate tariffs? 18:51 - Which industries are impacted the most? 20:34 - What inventory techniques do you recommend? 22:00 -  What professionals should you consult? 23:11 - How is the Canadian economy right now? 26:11 - What is the U.S. strategy? 28:10 - BDC’s Buy 5 High 5 Campaign 30:04 - What is micro vs. macroeconomics? 32:18 - What macroeconomics should business owners be aware of? 37:03 - What microeconomics should business owners look for in their daily operations? 40:32 - What challenges are SMBs facing? 43:46 - Arnaud’s past professional life 45:11 - How should SMBs think about their supply chain differently? 47:35 - What one advice would you give to entrepreneurs? 50:23 - What are some helpful concepts or frameworks business owners should lean into? 52:06 - Outro 52:19 - What’s next for Arnaud and BDC? 53:36 - Connect with us and share! Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://twitter.com/inflowinventory #inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #tariffs

    53 min

  4. 21 JUL

    How Ideas Become Great Products: Inside Development, Manufacturing & Launch

    In this episode, we dive into the complete product journey—from the initial spark of an idea to the moment your product finally hits the market. Joining us is Matt, our Head of Business Development at inFlow, who brings over 10 years of hands-on experience turning innovative hardware concepts into real, successful products. Matt shares firsthand stories and practical insights from his decade of leading inFlow’s transition from a software-focused company to one that also builds its own hardware—including products like our signature Smart Scanner and the brand new inFlow portable printer. We’ll explore: ✅ The critical stages of product development and how to navigate them ✅ How to navigate working with overseas manufacturers and U.S. tariffs ✅ Strategies and lessons learned for a successful market launch ✅ Behind-the-scenes challenges and triumphs from real product launches Whether you’re part of a startup dreaming up your first physical product or an established brand expanding into hardware, this episode is packed with real-world advice to help you bring your ideas to life. Tune in and discover what it really takes to turn a prototype into a product customers love! 0:00 Teaser 0:13 Intro 1:17 How did you get into the world of hardware? 5:14 Was there a trigger point to sell hardware? 6:00 How do you come up with ideas for new products? 9:29 Do you do market research? 10:02 What was developing inFlow hardware like? 13:10 What obstacles did you face developing hardware? 13:44 How did you decide between local vs. overseas manufacturers? 14:25 How did you handle different timezones and cultures? 17:28 What’s the typical timeline for production? 20:15 How do you make an impact with packaging? 23:26 What’s the journey been like creating the inFlow printer? 26:43 Was there anything that caught you off guard? 27:20 Have you ever had to delay a launch? 28:18 How do you test your products? 31:32 Any tips for smooth distribution? 33:14 How do you measure success? 35:16 How has the U.S. tariffs impacted the landscape? 37:51 What’s one thing you wish you knew before launching your first product? 39:28 Outro 🛒 Shop our inFlow hardware (barcode scanners & label printers): https://www.inflowshop.com/ 🌎 Buy official GS1 barcodes here: https://www.inflowinventory.com/gtin-barcodes 📖 Read the ultimate barcoding guide: https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/the-ultimate-barcoding-guide/ 📖 Purchase "Barcode Your Small Business" by Matt on Amazon: https://a.co/d/hUYWXqS 🎧 Listen to our Secret Life of Inventory podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2ynkKYhfivEWn6IRkA113D?si=2f45b350e474404b Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://twitter.com/inflowinventory #inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory

    41 min

  5. 20 MAY

    Barcode Hardware Setup: Choosing the Right Scanners & Label Printers for Your Business

    Barcodes are everywhere, but what do you really need to start using them effectively in your business? In this episode, we break down the essential hardware for barcoding, from scanners to label printers and everything in between. Learn the differences between stationary, handheld, and wearable barcode printers, plus key factors to consider when choosing the right one for your workflow. We also discuss how barcode software ties it all together—because having a scanner and printer isn’t enough without the right system to track your inventory. If you’re looking to optimize your operations with barcodes, this episode is a must-listen! 🛒 Shop our NEW inFlow Portable Printer! NOW AVAILABLE! https://www.inflowshop.com/collections/label-printers 0:00 Intro 1:49 How do barcode scanners work? 2:26 What kinds of barcode scanners are there? 3:12 What are the subcategories? 3:30 Pen scanners 4:36 Laser scanners 5:29 Bluetooth scanners 6:05 Smart scanners 7:37 CCD scanners 8:00 Image scanners 8:55 Smartphone camera 9:35 How do you choose which scanner is best? 11:26 What about label printers? 12:11 What kind of label printers are there? 12:51 Stationary printers 13:15 Handheld printers 13:40 Wearable printers 15:19 What to consider when looking for a barcode printer? 16:38 inFlow Portable Printer: now available on inFlowShop.com! 17:34 What makes the inFlow portable printer different? 19:25 What are the best practices for label printing? 21:43 What to consider when printing labels? 23:25 Barcode software 24:40 inFlow barcode generator 26:55 Outro 📝 Helpful Articles: What Is the Best Barcode Scanner for Small Businesses? https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/best-barcode-scanner/ Finding the Perfect Barcode Label Printer for Your Business https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/barcode-label-printer/ Read our ultimate barcoding guide: https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/the-ultimate-barcoding-guide/ Do you need a GS1 registered barcode? Check out the inFlow GTIN barcode shop: https://inflowinventory.com/gtin-barcodes ✅ Try inFlow's 14-day free trial to manage your inventory and make sure you never run out of stock: https://www.inflowinventory.com/ 🎧 Stream our podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2ynkKYhfivEWn6IRkA113D?si=2f45b350e474404b Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://twitter.com/inflowinventory #inventory #inventorysoftware #inventorymanagement #inventorymanagementsoftware #secretlifeofinventory #secretlifeofinventorypodcast #podcast #podcasting #barcode #barcoding

    28 min

  6. 28 MAR

    Mastering Inventory Management for Manufacturers

    If you’re new to manufacturing, inventory management can feel overwhelming—but we’re here to break it down! We’ll start with the basics of a Bill of Materials (BOM)—a detailed list of all the parts, components, and raw materials needed to make a product. We’ll also cover the role of barcoding systems in tracking inventory and how they can reduce errors and save time. Finally, we’ll explore how MRP (Material Requirements Planning) software ties it all together, helping you stay organized, track progress, and make smarter decisions. Whether you’re running a small workshop or scaling up production, this episode will help you get started on the right foot. Join us as we simplify the essentials of inventory management for manufacturing! 🎙️ Apply to be a podcast guest in Toronto! (flights and accommodations covered) https://forms.gle/tRNxcnr4AvsgdhGbA 🔗 Free Downloads: → Bill of Materials Template: What It Is and How to Get Started! https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/bill-of-materials-template-how-to-get-started/ → Print Barcodes for Free: Download Our Code 39 Barcode Font https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/free-barcode-font-code-39-3-of-9 📝 Helpful Articles: → Bill of Materials (BOM): A Quick Guide for Manufacturers https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/what-is-a-bill-of-materials-bom/ → Barcode System for Manufacturing: What You Need to Succeed https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/barcodes-for-manufacturing/ → How MRP Software Saves Manufacturers Time and Money https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/material-requirements-planning-mrp-software/ → How to create a bill of materials (Windows) in inFlow https://www.inflowinventory.com/support/cloud/how-to-create-a-bill-of-materials-for-products/ 0:00 - Teaser 0:15 - Intro 1:19 - What is a BOM and why is it important? 2:06 - What kind of BOMS are there? 3:45 - How do you know which BOM to use? 4:48 - What are the advantages of using a BOM? 8:31 - How do you create BOMs? 9:15 - Barcoding for manufacturers 11:04 - What are the benefits of barcoding in manufacturing? 14:40 - How should manufacturers barcode their workflow? 16:22 - How to create your own barcode system 18:34 - How do manufacturers plan and manage all their materials? 19:04 - Manufacturing inventory software vs. MRP (material requirements planning) 21:40 - How MRPs help manufacturers with production planning 24:05 - Outro Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://twitter.com/inflowinventory #inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowcloud #inflowinventory

    26 min

  7. 3 MAR

    From Home Business to a Growing Warehouse (ft. XXL Scrunchie & CO)

    Join us as we chat with Tina Nguyen, the founder of XXL Scrunchie & Co. What began as a handmade Christmas gift quickly grew into a thriving business—one that even caught the attention of Dragon’s Den investors! In this episode, Tina shares her journey from a mural artist to running XXL Scrunchie in a warehouse, the challenges she’s faced, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. We also dive into how she’s built a strong community around her brand and her thoughts on US tariffs and their impact on small businesses. Tune in for an insightful conversation on growth, resilience, and entrepreneurship. Subscribe for more stories from business owners and industry leaders! #xxlscrunchie #xxlscrunchieandco #smallbusiness #entrepreneurship #dragonsden #ustariffs  Follow and support Tina! • xxlandco.com • instagram.com/xxl.scrunchie • tiktok.com/@xxl.scrunchie • facebook.com/xxl.scrunchie • ca.pinterest.com/xxlscrunchie/ 0:00 - Teaser 0:17 - Intro 1:32 - What was life like before XXL Scrunchie & CO? 5:39 - How did you get into making scrunchies in the first place? 6:13 - At what point did you realize making scrunchies could become a business? 7:05 - What were those early days like—handmaking each piece, setting up the shop, and getting your first customers? 8:16 - What were some of the key milestones that motivated you to keep on going? 8:59 - How was it like working with family? 11:01 - What was it like to move into your first warehouse? 13:38 - How many people are on your team now? 13:45 - What was that transition like for you to expand your team? 15:06 - What are other challenges that you faced while managing a team? 15:41 - How do you manage your inventory and shipping? 17:27 - How do you manage your demand forecasting with trends? 18:11 - How did you know which products to expand? 19:18 - What was the process like to expand your product line? 19:43 - How did your inventory management shift? 20:22 - Do you fulfill your orders the same way? 21:13 - Was it for you to implement barcodes? 21:30 - Did you create your own barcodes? 22:05 - What software or tools do you recommend? 23:25 - How did you start sourcing your suppliers? 24:26 - What qualities do you look for in your fabrics? 25:01 - When did you decide to sell wholesale? 26:12 - Tina's negative wholesale experience 27:25 - How do you fulfill your wholesale orders? 28:04 - How do you approach content creation? 29:03 - How do you balance content and business? 29:52 - Do you find certain types of content work better than others? 30:20 - Can you share tips on how to build a strong community? 31:26 - Do you feel nervous sharing? 33:00 - Dragon's Den Experience 39:45 - Celebrating 5 years of XXL! What were the biggest lessons you learned? 41:15 - Where do you see the future of XXL? 42:07 - Any advice you would give to your younger self? 43:06 - US Tariffs: What were your initial thoughts on how it'll impact your business? 44:23 - How do you think you'll approach the shift? 46:04 - Would you raise your prices? 🎧 Listen to our Secret Life of Inventory podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2ynkKYhfivEWn6IRkA113D?si=2f45b350e474404b Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://twitter.com/inflowinve

    49 min

  8. 22/11/2024

    Holiday Inventory Prep to Help Avoid Stockouts and Overstocking

    The holiday season is just around the corner, and for small business owners, it’s the most important time of the year! In this episode, we’ll guide you through essential strategies to prepare your inventory for the holiday rush and ensure your business is ready to thrive. Learn how to forecast demand, organize your stock, work with suppliers, and avoid common inventory pitfalls. Whether you’re an e-commerce shop or brick-and-mortar store, these tips will help you stay ahead of the curve and make this holiday season your best yet! 💡🎄 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more small business tips and leave a comment with your thoughts or questions below! 0:00 - Teaser 0:12 - Intro 1:47 - How do you find the perfect inventory balance? 2:19 - How do you analyze data and and forecast demand? 6:50 - Why you should invest in inventory management software 7:34 - What are the main benefits of having inventory software? 9:56 - How inFlow can help manage your inventory 10:41 - What should businesses do to prepare for the upcoming year? 11:29 - What are your tips for working with suppliers? 14:21 - How do you prepare for the unexpected? 17:27 - How do you navigate returns and restocking? 22:24 - Key takeaways to prepare for the holiday season 23:40 - Outro ✅ Try inFlow's 14-day free trial to manage your inventory and make sure you never run out of stock: https://www.inflowinventory.com/ Stay connected: https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventory https://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/ https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventory https://x.com/inFlowInventory

    25 min
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A show where we delve deep into the unseen world of inventory management, revealing the hidden mysteries that help small businesses (like you) optimize their workflow and succeed! © Created by inFlow Inventory. 

Información

  • Creador
    inFlow Inventory
  • Años de actividad
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodios
    17
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Secret Life of Inventory
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    Secret Life of Inventory