Secret Life of Inventory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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/inflowinventory

#inventory #inventorymanagement #i

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

Are you thinking about starting your own HVAC business or taking your current one to the next level? In this episode, we dive deep into the strategies and steps you need to know to build a thriving HVAC company. From understanding the essentials of starting an HVAC business to how to effectively manage inventory and scale, this podcast covers it all.

Stay tuned for more episodes on entrepreneurship, business growth, and industry insights!

0:00 - Teaser
0:16  - Intro
1:08 - What is HVAC Inventory Management?
1:50 - What are examples of poor inventory management? How does that impact business operations and customer satisfaction?
5:38 - What are the best practices for effectively managing HVAC inventory?
12:52 - HVAC industry growth
14:21 - How do you start your own HVAC business?
19:50 - What are your top recommended solutions for starting an HVAC business?
23:00  - 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://twitter.com/inflowinventory

#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowcloud #inflowinventory #hvac #hvacinventorymanagement

Join us as we sit down with Monica - the inspiring owner of SnaptureThis, a thriving gift shop known for its unique paper goods and community collaborations. She shares her journey of starting a small business from scratch, while navigating the challenges of selling her products online and managing multiple retail stores. We also dive into the backstory of her podcast, Sip It, where she explores the world of small businesses and the cafe scene in Toronto. Plus, she opens up about the balancing act of taking on a new full-time job while continuing to grow her business.

Don't miss this insightful conversation—tune in to gain valuable tips and inspiration for your own entrepreneurial journey! 

Follow SnaptureThis:
https://snapturethis.ca/
https://www.faire.com/en-ca/direct/snapturethis
https://www.instagram.com/snapturethis/

0:00 - Teaser
0:11 - Intro
1:14 - Monica's BackStory of SnaptureThis
1:50 - What were the biggest challenges of starting a small business?
3:18 - How do you find the balance with selling retail and online?
4:06 - How do you manage your inventory?
6:18 - How can inFlow Inventory help?
7:20 - Do you use barcodes for inventory tracking?
8:30 - Do you have a warehouse for storing inventory?
9:20 - How do you fulfill all your orders?
10:08 - How do you find your suppliers and manufacturers?
12:29 - Do you use the same manufacturers for everything?
13:03 - Do you design your own products?
13:23 - Working with local illustrators and cafes #supportlocal
15:59 - Asking Balzac's to be in SnaptureThis' cafe print
18:30 - What sparked the inspiration behind launching your podcast?
20:00 - Who were your most memorable interviews?
21:55 - What were the main lessons you learned from your conversations?
22:42 - How were you featured on BlogTO?
24:44 - Are there any other popup collabs you do aside from SnaptureThis x Gouter?
27:02 - Did you always plan for your character/personality to be your own brand?
28:49 - Do you ever struggle with privacy with how much to share online?
29:23 - Cafe Monica: transforming Monica's apartment to a cafe
31:28 - Being recognized 
33:10 - Do new cafes reach out to you?
34:01 - How do you want to keep your life separate?
35:14 - What is your dream?
36:37 - How do you feel about starting a 9-5 job soon?
37:32 - What are some things you needed to put in place with the transition?
38:08 - Letting go of control
38:38 - Outro

🎧 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 #inflowcloud #inflowinventory