When the U.S. jobs report is off by tens of thousands, what does that mean for leaders in wholesale distribution?
In this episode, Kevin Brown and Tom Burton break down the latest economic numbers—and why massive revisions to jobs data should concern every distributor, manufacturer, and revenue leader. Beyond the headlines, they explore how faulty metrics distort strategy, trigger bad decisions, and create pressure across supply chains and sales teams.
But it’s not just about problems. The hosts highlight how LeadSmart Channel Cloud™, AI-enabled CRM tools, and smart data integration can help revenue teams regain clarity, turning siloed information into real-time intelligence.
Whether you're navigating inflation, digital transformation, or demand forecasting, this episode explains how to lead with insight when the facts are fuzzy.
What’s the Real Risk When the Data Is Wrong?
Whether it’s a 70,000-job gap or a delayed Fed signal, inaccurate economic metrics can lead to:
- Over-correcting on hiring and budgeting
- Missed sales targets due to false confidence
- Burnout and misalignment in leadership teams
- Pressure across CRM, ERP, and marketing systems that aren’t integrated
Episode Highlights
- 04:02 – The July jobs report: What the government got wrong
- 11:15 – Why flawed data creates flawed decisions in distribution
- 21:30 – Paladin and the danger of disconnected insights
- 33:10 – How AI for Bob makes frontline sales smarter
- 48:42 – CRM and ERP integration as an antidote to chaos
- 59:55 – The rise of distributor newsletters as executive intelligence tools
- 01:08:17 – When to trust your data—and when to override it
- 01:18:50 – Final take: Use AI to see clearly when the markets can’t
Meet the Hosts
Kevin Brown and Tom Burton are co-founders of LeadSmart Technologies, a company building intelligent CRM platforms for manufacturers, distributors, and sales agents. With decades of experience, they help B2B teams align systems, strategy, and leadership insight.
Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned
- LeadSmart Channel Cloud™ – A CRM and customer intelligence platform for distribution
- AI for Bob – A metaphor for practical AI co-pilots in B2B sales
- Silo Elimination – Connecting CRM, ERP, and marketing for real-time clarity
- Newsletter as Dashboard – Treating curated content as operational strategy fuel
Closing Insight
“If the signal’s broken, build your own dashboard—and make sure your team knows how to read it.”
Stay ahead of the next surprise. Subscribe, sync your data, and lead with clarity.
Leave a Review: Help us grow by sharing your thoughts on the show.
Learn more about the LeadSmart AI B2B Sales Platform: https://www.leadsmarttech.com/
Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.
Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.
You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.