Material Handling Masters Podcast

Hosted by MHEDA

Business

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Episodes

155

Latest episode

Apr 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Hear material handling industry economic insight, trends and member perspectives when you listen to MHEDA (Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association) podcasts. Learn what thought leaders in our industry have to say about improving business operations and staying relevant in a changing industry.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

April 29, 202631 min

Culture by Design: How InCord Builds, Listens, and Leads

Building a Workplace People Want to Be Part Of In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Katie Richards sits down with Meredith Shay, Owner & CEO of InCord, and Robin Ritz, Owner & VP of Sales and Marketing at InCord, to discuss what it takes to create a workplace culture employees genuinely want to be part of. Recognized as a top workplace year after year, InCord shares how intentional leadership, consistent communication, employee feedback, and personal growth initiatives have helped shape a culture built on trust, accountability, and connection. Meredith and Robin also explore the importance of balancing business goals with employee well-being, creating meaningful work experiences, and leading with both vision and empathy. Key Topics Discussed Building a culture rooted in trust, consistency, and communicatio The role of leadership alignment in employee engagement Why employee feedback should drive continuous improvement Supporting employees both personally and professionally Creating meaningful workplace experiences that improve retention How intentional culture-building strengthens long-term business success About Meredith Shay & Robin Ritz Meredith Shay is the Owner & CEO of InCord, a custom safety netting provider serving the material handling industry and other markets focused on workplace safety. Meredith is passionate about building strong teams, fostering accountability, and creating a workplace culture where employees can thrive. Robin Ritz is the Owner & VP of Sales and Marketing at InCord. Robin is known for her people-first leadership style and focus on dream management, helping employees align personal goals with meaningful career growth while contributing to a collaborative and purpose-driven workplace culture.

April 2, 202616 min

Maximizing Your Time at MODEX 2026

What to Expect at MODEX 2026: Insights from MHI In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Katie Richards sits down with Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI, to explore what attendees can expect at MODEX 2026—one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the material handling industry. Daniel shares a behind-the-scenes look at this year’s event, highlighting new show floor features, expanded educational opportunities, and the continued growth of emerging technologies shaping the industry. He also discusses key trends driving attendance, including the rise of automation, increased interest from venture capital firms, and the importance of workforce development. In addition, Daniel offers practical advice for both first-time exhibitors and attendees on how to plan ahead, maximize ROI, and make the most of the MODEX experience, while still leaving room for unexpected connections and discoveries. Key Topics Discussed New features and activations at MODEX 2026 Growth of automation and emerging technologies The role of startups and venture capital in the industry Tips for first-time exhibitors and attendees How to plan your schedule and maximize your experience Balancing structured planning with spontaneous networking opportunities About Daniel McKinnon Daniel McKinnon is the Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI, where he leads the strategy and execution of major industry events including MODEX and ProMat. With extensive experience in trade show management and industry engagement, Daniel plays a key role in shaping experiences that bring together thousands of professionals across the material handling and supply chain sectors. He is passionate about creating opportunities for education, innovation, and meaningful connections that drive the industry forward. Visit MHEDA at MODEX 2026 Let’s Connect! MHEDA is excited to attend MODEX, April 13-16, at Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Unplug from the show floor and re-energize in the MHEDA Recharge Lounge. Enjoy a comfortable space to relax, grab refreshments, charge your phone, and spark new conversations with fellow material handling professionals. Conveniently located in the B Concourse (Room B210), MHEDA’s Recharge Lounge is your headquarters for connection, comfort, and community at MODEX 2026. — Learn More!

March 30, 202612 min

Economic Advisory Report – April 2026

In the April 2026 Economic Advisory Report, MHEDA presents insights from ITR Economics specifically focused on the material handling industry. The MHEDA Quarterly Economic Report, published by ITR Economics, provides an in-depth look into the latest economic data and forecasts. This report is designed to equip MHEDA members with critical insights to help navigate market trends, understand economic cycles, and make informed business decisions. By accessing both current and archived issues, MHEDA members gain a valuable, data-driven perspective to support their long-term growth and adaptability in a competitive marketplace. Key Topics Discussed in this Episode: Economic uncertainty Forecast revisions due to the middle east confict Industrial production index MHEDA markets dashboard To access the full report and explore archived issues, simply log in to your MHEDA member account and order the FREE report. This exclusive resource is part of MHEDA’s commitment to supporting members with relevant, actionable economic insights to fuel strategic planning and success. About ITR Economics ITR Economics is the oldest privately held, continuously operating economic research and consulting firm in the US. ITR Economics has provided business leaders with economic information, insight, analysis, and strategy since 1948. With a knowledge base that spans seven decades, ITR Economics has an uncommon understanding of long-term economic trends as well as best practices for changing market conditions. ITR Economics’ reputation is built on accurate, independent, and objective analysis.

March 30, 202631 min

How Leaders Build Teams People Don’t Want to Leave

How Leaders Build Teams People Don’t Want to Leave In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Katie Richards sits down with Joe Mull, author, founder of Boss Hero School, and speaker at the 2026 MHEDA Convention, to explore what it truly takes to build a workplace where employees want to stay. Joe shares insights from his research and experience in leadership development, challenging common assumptions about retention and engagement. He discusses why the idea that “no one wants to work anymore” misses the mark and reframes the conversation around quality of life, trust, and the overall employee experience. Joe also offers practical strategies leaders can use to strengthen commitment, improve retention, and create a more people-centered workplace. Key Topics Discussed Employee commitment vs. transactional thinking The role of quality of life in retention Why “No one wants to work anymore” is a myth Stay interviews vs. exit interviews Practical leadership habits that improve retention About Joe Mull Joe Mull is an award-winning author, Hall of Fame speaker, and the founder of Boss Hero School. With a background in leadership development across higher education and healthcare, Joe helps organizations improve employee commitment, reduce turnover, and build more human-centered workplace cultures. He is known for translating research and psychology into practical strategies that leaders can apply to attract, engage, and retain top talent.

March 11, 20269 min

Navigating the Impact of Industry Consolidation

Consolidation, Competition, and Opportunity Industry consolidation continues to reshape the material handling landscape as private equity investment, acquisitions, and strategic mergers accelerate across the market. In this episode of Table Trends, CEO Lauren Reed joins MHEDA board members to discuss how consolidation is influencing competition, customer relationships, and long-term business strategy across the industry. The conversation explores how private equity and large-scale acquisitions are changing the competitive environment—bringing both new opportunities and new pressures for distributors, integrators, and suppliers. Panelists share how companies are responding to larger competitors entering their markets, evolving vendor relationships, and shifting expectations from newly acquired customers. Featured Guests Lauren Reed, CEO, MHEDA Lori Palmer, President, REB Storage Systems Darin Boik, President, Advanced Equipment Steve Strenck, Director of Sales, Gregory Poole Equipment While consolidation can create uncertainty, the discussion highlights how strong customer relationships, agile operations, and a focus on service excellence remain key differentiators. As the industry continues to evolve, companies that stay adaptable and relationship-driven will be best positioned to navigate change and uncover new growth opportunities.

February 25, 20268 min

The Real-World Impact of Artificial Intelligence

AI as a Business Tool, Not a Buzzword As artificial intelligence rapidly evolves, material handling companies are moving beyond curiosity and into practical application. In this episode of Table Trends, CEO Lauren Reed is joined by MHEDA board members to explore how AI is reshaping operations, decision-making, and customer experience across the industry. From contract reviews to service automation, the discussion highlights how companies are leveraging AI tools to improve efficiency while maintaining human oversight. Panelists share how AI is streamlining complex and time-consuming processes. Contracts that once took hours to review can now be analyzed for key clauses and risk areas in minutes, helping leaders without in-house legal teams navigate increasingly complex agreements with greater confidence. Others are building customized AI tools to interpret technical manuals, support customer service teams with faster answers, and even create searchable employee handbooks that provide real-time internal guidance. Operational automation is also taking center stage. One panelist describes how AI-driven analytics are automatically closing thousands of routine preventative maintenance work orders each month, freeing up staff to focus on higher-value tasks and improving billing accuracy. The result is not only greater internal efficiency but also a stronger customer experience through faster, more accurate service. Featured Guests Lauren Reed, CEO, MHEDA Lori Palmer, President, REB Storage Systems Darin Boik, President, Advanced Equipment Steve Strenck, Director of Sales, Gregory Poole Equipment Whether you’re just beginning to explore AI or actively integrating it into your operations, this episode offers real-world insight into how material handling leaders are using artificial intelligence to save time, reduce risk, elevate marketing efforts, and create more meaningful human interaction where it matters most.

February 11, 202612 min

The Business Impact of Today’s Workforce Shifts

Workforce Dynamics and the Next Generation of Leadership As workforce expectations continue to evolve across the material handling industry, companies are navigating new challenges around engagement, accountability, and leadership development. This episode of Table Trends brings together CEO, Lauren Reed and MHEDA board members to discuss how shifting workforce dynamics are influencing the way organizations communicate, manage teams, and build the next generation of leaders. The conversation explores the growing importance of flexibility, open communication, and creating environments where employees feel heard and valued—regardless of tenure or generation. Panelists share how career pathing, stronger manager training, and more frequent employee check-ins are helping retain talent and drive engagement, while also reinforcing accountability through shared goal-setting and development planning. Featured Guests Lauren Reed, CEO, MHEDA Lori Palmer, President, REB Storage Systems Darin Boik, President, Advanced Equipment Steve Strenck, Director of Sales, Gregory Poole Equipment Whether you’re a dealer, integrator, or supplier, this episode offers practical insight into leading today’s workforce, developing future leaders, and creating a culture where employees stay engaged, motivated, and invested in long-term success.

February 4, 202615 min

Economic Advisory Report – January 2026

In the January 2026 Economic Advisory Report, MHEDA presents insights from ITR Economics specifically focused on the material handling industry. The MHEDA Quarterly Economic Report, published by ITR Economics, provides an in-depth look into the latest economic data and forecasts. This report is designed to equip MHEDA members with critical insights to help navigate market trends, understand economic cycles, and make informed business decisions. By accessing both current and archived issues, MHEDA members gain a valuable, data-driven perspective to support their long-term growth and adaptability in a competitive marketplace. Key Topics Discussed in this Episode: Industrial sector growth Consumer expectations Subsiding economic uncertainty Rising price index MHEDA markets dashboard To access the full report and explore archived issues, simply log in to your MHEDA member account and order the FREE report. This exclusive resource is part of MHEDA’s commitment to supporting members with relevant, actionable economic insights to fuel strategic planning and success. About ITR Economics ITR Economics is the oldest privately held, continuously operating economic research and consulting firm in the US. ITR Economics has provided business leaders with economic information, insight, analysis, and strategy since 1948. With a knowledge base that spans seven decades, ITR Economics has an uncommon understanding of long-term economic trends as well as best practices for changing market conditions. ITR Economics’ reputation is built on accurate, independent, and objective analysis. This report and its contents are the exclusive property of MHEDA and are intended solely for the use of its registered members. All rights are reserved.

January 27, 20268 min

Changing Your Strategy to Differentiate

Experience, Execution, and the Future of Competition As the material handling industry looks toward 2026, competitive pressure is intensifying—particularly in the storage & handling and systems integrator space. New entrants, adjacent industries, and acquisition-driven expansion are reshaping the landscape, raising important questions about differentiation, execution, and long-term customer trust. In this episode of Table Trends, MHEDA leadership and board members unpack how competition is evolving and what it truly takes to succeed in increasingly complex solution-based markets. The discussion highlights why systems integration and storage solutions are not easy markets to enter, emphasizing the critical role of experience, technical expertise, and disciplined execution. Panelists explore how strong customer relationships, deep operational knowledge, and an understanding of permitting, safety, and installation requirements serve as key defenses against growing competition. Featured guests also address the risks of overextending into unfamiliar solution areas, noting how a single misstep can jeopardize long-standing customer relationships. From automation to rack and storage projects, the conversation reinforces that winning in today’s market depends on knowing your customer, understanding their business, and delivering well-executed solutions—not just selling products. Featured Guests Lauren Reed, CEO, MHEDA Lori Palmer, President, REB Storage Systems Darin Boik, President, Advanced Equipment Steve Strenck, Director of Sales, Gregory Poole Equipment Whether you’re a dealer, integrator, or supplier, this episode offers valuable insight into navigating increased competition, protecting customer trust, and positioning your business for sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving industry.

January 13, 20269 min

Changing Customer Expectations

Raising the Bar on Customer Expectations As customer expectations continue to evolve across the material handling industry, speed, transparency, and partnership are becoming critical differentiators. In this episode of Table Trends, industry leaders discuss how dealers, integrators, and suppliers are adapting to these changes while maintaining healthy margins. The conversation explores the shift from transactional relationships to long-term partnerships, with customers increasingly looking to suppliers for advisory support, continuous improvement, and insight beyond the initial sale. Panelists share how enhanced communication, clearer expectation-setting, and value-added services—such as fleet reporting and one-stop solutions—are helping businesses better serve customers in a fast-paced environment. Featured Guests Lauren Reed, CEO, MHEDA Lori Palmer, President, REB Storage Systems Darin Boik, President, Advanced Equipment Steve Strenck, Director of Sales, Gregory Poole Equipment Whether you’re a dealer, integrator, or supplier, this episode offers practical insight into meeting rising customer expectations, strengthening relationships, and delivering long-term value in a competitive marketplace.