Secret Life of Inventory

Hosted by inFlow Inventory

Business Management

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Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

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.

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23 recent

June 2, 2026Episode 2340 min

1PL, 3PL, or 4PL? How to Choose the Right Fulfillment Model | (ft. Maggie Barnett, COO of ShipHero)

What does it really take to choose the right fulfillment model for your business? When should brands keep fulfillment in-house, and when does it make sense to move to a 3PL or 4PL partner?In this episode, we sit down with Maggie Barnett, CEO of LVK Logistics and COO of ShipHero, to unpack the realities behind modern fulfillment operations and what businesses need to know before outsourcing logistics.Here's what you'll learn:→ The key differences between 1PL, 3PL, and 4PL models→ When in-house fulfillment starts to break down→ The pros and cons of outsourcing fulfillment→ What makes a strong 3PL partner→ Why 4PL models can struggle operationally→ How fulfillment strategy impacts customer experience→ The future of logistics technology and AI in fulfillmentIf you're trying to scale fulfillment, improve operational efficiency, or figure out the right logistics strategy for long-term growth, this episode offers a practical, experience-driven look at what actually works.⬇️ Follow Maggie!https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggiembarnett/🎙️ Visit our website for show notes:https://www.secretlifeofinventory.com/👀 Think you'd be a great fit for our show? Apply to be a podcast guest:https://www.secretlifeofinventory.com/apply-to-be-our-guest/0:00 - Teaser0:21 - Intro1:29 - Maggie’s Background in Supply Chain3:06 - Juggling Roles: CEO of LVK Logistics & COO of ShipHero4:41 - Defining the Fulfillment Landscape: 1PL vs. 3PL vs. 4PL6:40 - How to Choose the Right Fulfillment Model7:36 - When In-House Fulfillment Starts to Break Down8:29 - Real Growth vs. Temporary Operational Chaos9:36 - Red Flags in the 4PL Model13:03 - Where 4PLs Break Down Operationally13:43 - The Impact of Peak Season Demand Spikes on 4PLs14:55 - The Reputation Risk of Outsourced Execution15:45 - Do 4PLs Have Better Tech?17:52 - Evolution of the 4PL Model19:15 - Impact of ShipHero’s Pivot from 4PL to 3PL22:01 - Pros and Cons of a 3PL Model23:52 - Top Qualities to Look For in a 3PL Partner25:30 - Do Companies Use Multiple 3PLs?26:06 - Cost Comparison: 3PL vs. 4PL27:09 - Biggest Takeaways from ShipHero’s 3PL Pivot28:24 - The Exact Breaking Point for ShipHero’s 4PL29:17 - The First Metric to Improve After the 3PL Pivot30:26 - The Future of Logistics Tech and Fulfillment31:56 - Could AI Eventually Fix the 4PL Model?32:45 - Extending In-House Operations Before Outsourcing33:52 - Which Brands Should Stay In-House Longer?34:22 - Fulfillment Strategy for Multi-Channel Brands35:05 - The Absolute Best Time to Move to a 3PL36:13 - How to Diagnose a Struggling Fulfillment Partnership38:01 - Core Principles for Long-Term Fulfillment Success39:13 - Outro✅ Try inFlow Inventory for free and never run out of stock:https://www.inflowinventory.com/🎧 Stream our Secret Life of Inventory podcast:https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZPdD9vxalF-TD_uxHmFsPkP5638NrU8-&si=7YIruVL0daUgxCBtStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory

May 5, 2026Episode 2220 min

How to Track Your Products with Lot and Serial Numbers

If you’ve ever wondered whether you should use lot numbers or serial numbers to track your inventory, this episode breaks it down in a clear, practical way.We cover what each system is, what information it stores, which industries rely on it, and when to use one over the other. You’ll also learn best practices and how inventory software can make tracking more scalable and accurate.Whether you’re improving your current process or building one from scratch, this episode will help you make better decisions about how you track your products!0:00 - Teaser0:15 - Intro1:27 - What is a lot number?2:14 - What information is stored inside a lot number?3:13 - What does a lot number look like?3:42 - Which industries rely the most on lot number tracking?4:15 - What are the benefits of tracking by lot numbers?8:05 - What are the best practices for lot number tracking?10:30 - How do you track products by lot number with inventory software?11:56 - What are serial numbers? How are they different?13:05 - What other information is stored inside a serial number?13:25 - What are the benefits of serial number tracking?16:13 - What are the best practices for serial number tracking?18:08 - When to use lot numbers versus serial numbers?19:28 - OutroPodcast Produced by: inFlow InventoryHosted by: Jared Plumb & Melinda Tse✅ Try inFlow Inventory for free and never run out of stock:https://www.inflowinventory.com/🎙️ Visit our website for show notes:https://www.secretlifeofinventory.com/🎧 Stream our Secret Life of Inventory podcast:https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZPdD9vxalF-TD_uxHmFsPkP5638NrU8-&si=7YIruVL0daUgxCBtStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #batchtracking #lottracking #lotnumbers #serialnumbers

April 7, 2026Episode 2152 min

Manufacturing Beyond Machines: Culture, Ownership & Succession (ft. Jim Vinoski)

What does it really take to build, scale, and sustain a modern manufacturing business? How do leaders balance operational efficiency, workforce challenges, and long-term succession planning in an industry that’s constantly evolving?In this episode, we sit down with Jim Vinoski to unpack 16 years at General Mills and explore what it takes to navigate today’s manufacturing landscape. From overcoming food production challenges to understanding the root causes of inefficiency, we break down practical strategies that manufacturers can apply right away. We also dive into the human side of operations—building strong talent pipelines, embracing second-chance hiring, and addressing age bias to create more resilient, high-performing teams.We’ll also explore leadership, capital, and the future of manufacturing—covering everything from raising funds and navigating family business succession, to evaluating private equity vs. ESOPs to prepare your business for a successful exit.If you're thinking about scaling your operations, strengthening your workforce, or planning for the future, this episode offers a grounded, experience-driven perspective on what actually works.🎙️ Visit our website for show notes:https://www.secretlifeofinventory.com/⬇️ Follow Jim!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@manufacturingtalks5250LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimvinoski/Substack: https://manufacturingtalks.substack.com/https://www.manufacturingtalks.com/📖 Resources:The E-Myth Revisited: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/81948.The_E_myth_Revisited✅ Try inFlow Inventory for free and never run out of stock:https://www.inflowinventory.com/Podcast Produced by: inFlow InventoryHosted by: Jared Plumb & Melinda Tse0:00 - Teaser0:24 - Intro and welcome to Secret Life of Inventory1:49 - Lessons from 16 years at General Mills2:42 - Overcoming food manufacturing challenges3:37 - Most valuable lessons6:09 - Modern tech trends & industrial evolution7:30 - Jim’s earliest memory that defined his perspective on manufacturing8:52 - How Jim's experiences influenced his consulting approach9:53 - The root cause of operational inefficiency11:58 - The current state of onshoring & regulations12:50 - Essential solutions for modern manufacturers13:52 - Building a talent pipeline for small shops17:08 - The power & success of second chance hiring21:14 - Tackling age bias and intergenerational dynamics25:11 - Creating a perfect work culture30:04 - Practical leadership advice31:07 - Hiring advantages: small business vs. big corporate33:37 - How to raise capital for manufacturing38:08 - Obstacles in family business succession40:05 - Mentoring the next generation of workers40:50 - Government programs and training grants41:55 - Private equity vs. ESOPs44:57 - Alternatives to exiting the space45:42 - Key strategies for scaling and future exits48:05 - Making your financials attractive to buyers49:35 - Outro🎧 Stream our Secret Life of Inventory podcast:https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZPdD9vxalF-TD_uxHmFsPkP5638NrU8-&si=7YIruVL0daUgxCBtStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #secretlifeofinventory #manufacturing #jimvinoski

March 3, 2026Episode 2042 min

How to Build a Better Supply Chain (ft. Sarah Barnes-Humphrey)

How do inclusion, sustainability, and innovation shape the future of supply chains? And what does it take to build a community that truly elevates underrepresented voices in the industry?In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Barnes-Humphrey—creator and host of Let’s Talk Supply Chain and Women in Supply Chain, founder of the non-profit Blended Pledge, and a #1 Amazon Best-Selling Author. We explore her journey as a trailblazer in the supply chain space, her work advocating for equity and representation, and why community-driven leadership is essential for meaningful, long-term change.It’s a conversation about building more inclusive, sustainable supply chains, and the leaders pushing the industry forward.🎙️ Visit our website for show notes:https://www.secretlifeofinventory.com/Follow Sarah!Let's Talk Supply Chain: https://letstalksupplychain.com/Blended: https://blendedpodcast.libsyn.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkSupplyChain/videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbarneshumphrey/IG: https://www.instagram.com/sarahbarneshumphrey/FB: https://www.facebook.com/letstalksupplychainBuy her best-selling book: https://www.amazon.ca/Buried-Her-French-Press-Finding/dp/1544549466Join her supply chain community: https://letstalksupplychain.com/what-is-the-secret-society-of-supply-chain-with-sarah-barnes-humphrey/✅ Try inFlow Inventory for free and never run out of stock:https://www.inflowinventory.com/0:00 - Teaser0:21 - Intro1:34 - How did you get involved in the supply chain industry?2:49 - What are common misconceptions? 3:59 - How was the transition from sales to marketing?4:59 - What inspired you to start your podcast?7:56 - Why is inclusion important?10:45 - What are the challenges for minorities in supply chain?12:14 - How can you build more inclusive teams?13:35 - Have you experienced any pushback or skepticism?14:54 - Why is it important to send your team to industry events?16:52 - Have you noticed a shift since advocating for women?17:56 - Where does 80% of greenhouse gas emissions come from?20:26 - How do you implement sustainability into your supply chain?22:08 - What's a real-world example of sustainability done well?23:36 - How are companies approaching digital transformation?26:11 - What tech is emerging?28:36 - How can businesses balance the human side and AI?31:02 - What emerging tech do you think will have a huge impact in the future?33:18 - What's your favourite thing about working in the supply chain?35:07 - How do you be a good leader?36:32 - How do you break into the supply chain industry?39:37 - Outro🎧 Stream our Secret Life of Inventory podcast:https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZPdD9vxalF-TD_uxHmFsPkP5638NrU8-&si=7YIruVL0daUgxCBtStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#secretlifeofinventory #inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #sarahbarneshumphrey #supplychain #letstalksupplychain #womeninsupplychain #inclusion

February 3, 2026Episode 1929 min

Your Ultimate Guide to Asset Tracking

Asset tracking barcodes help businesses stay organized, reduce losses, and make better decisions about the equipment and tools they rely on every day. In this episode, we break down what asset tracking really means, which businesses benefit most, and how to get started with a barcode system.Whether you’re managing IT equipment, tools, vehicles, or high-value assets, this walkthrough covers the fundamentals (plus practical considerations on hardware, reporting, and best practices), so you can build an asset-tracking process that actually works!✅ Try inFlow Stockroom for an easy scan-in and out workflow!https://www.inflowinventory.com/inflow-stockroom▶️ Barcode resources:https://youtu.be/4hs5tq12s7Mhttps://youtu.be/zSfymC0OPt0https://youtu.be/XcluJ7s1BHAPodcast Produced by: inFlow InventoryHosted by: Jared Plumb & Melinda Tse🎙️ Visit our website for show notes:https://www.secretlifeofinventory.com/Timestamps:0:00 - Teaser00:13 - Intro2:14 - What counts as a business asset?5:18 - What is asset tracking?7:11 - Why should businesses track their assets?9:20 - What types of businesses benefit from asset tracking?11:26 - How do you implement asset tracking barcodes?15:31 - What hardware do you recommend?17:30 - Why is generating reports important?21:29 - What are the downsides of asset tracking?23:59 - What are the best practices for asset tracking?27:59 - Outro🎧 Stream our Secret Life of Inventory podcast:https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZPdD9vxalF-TD_uxHmFsPkP5638NrU8-&si=7YIruVL0daUgxCBtStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #assettracking #barcodes

December 16, 2025Episode 181 hr 14 min

Future-Proof Your Manufacturing Strategy (ft. The Manufacturing Millennial)

What’s happening behind the scenes in modern manufacturing? How are robotics, cobots, and AI transforming operations—and how can companies attract and reskill the next generation of talent?In this episode, we sit down with Jake Hall, the Manufacturing Millennial, to uncover practical strategies for reskilling employees, balancing new technology with real-world challenges, and attracting the next generation of talent. Plus, get insights on emerging trends, sustainability initiatives, and how to use social media to showcase your manufacturing brand.Packed with actionable takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to modernize and future-proof their operations!🎙️ Visit our website for show notes:https://www.secretlifeofinventory.com/🔨 Follow Jake & The Manufacturing Millennial!https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobrhall/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-manufacturing-millennial/0:00 - Teaser0:24 - Intro1:39 - How did you get into the world of manufacturing and automation?2:53 - What kinds of automation systems did you help implement?6:37 - How does your approach shift when dealing with large vs. smaller businesses?9:03 - How do you encourage employees to reskill?12:25 - What types of technology did you work with?14:14 - Was there one system or tool that really surprised you?18:15 - Are robots taking jobs humans don't want to do?21:41 - What's the difference between robots and cobots?25:22 - What's an example of a cobot?29:21 - How do you get started with robots and cobots?31:00 - What technology has stood the test of time?35:49 - How have customers' needs changed?39:07 - What content from the Manufacturing Millennial resonates the most with people?41:57 - What opportunities have you received as the Manufacturing Millennial?43:49 - What advice do you have for manufacturers looking to leverage social media?46:11 - What types of content do you think perform best?48:14 - How did you get involved with helping students?54:33 - Can you share more about your Robot Dogs?56:21 - What's the coolest automation you've done or seen?57:39 - What do you enjoy about conferences?59:32 - What emerging trends are standing out the most right now?1:01:47 - What sustainability initiatives are you seeing?1:04:21 - What does the future of manufacturing look like?1:06:52 - How would you attract Millennials and Gen Z into manufacturing?1:09:05 - Which social media platforms work best?1:10:46 - What mistakes do companies make with their social presence?1:11:09 - What company is doing it right?1:12:17 - To start, where should companies modernize?1:13:04 - What's one thing you want every manufacturer to remember?1:13:38 - Outro✅ Try inFlow Inventory for free and never run out of stock:https://www.inflowinventory.com/🎧 Watch Secret Life of Inventory on YouTube!https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZPdD9vxalF-TD_uxHmFsPkP5638NrU8-&si=7YIruVL0daUgxCBtStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory

November 19, 2025Episode 171 hr 8 min

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 industryWhether 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 - Teaser0:15 - Intro1:57 - Kevin's backstory3:44 - 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 questions1:04:44 - Which podcast episodes would you recommend?1:05:52 - What exciting things are coming up next?1:07:01 - OutroStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #secretlifeofinventory #warehousing #thenewawarehouse #thenewwarehousepodcast #supplychain #logistics #AIinWarehousing #sustainability

October 27, 2025Episode 161 hr 24 min

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 managementIf 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 - Intro1:40 - 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 disbursements35:28 - 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/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #demandforecasting #effectiveinventorymanagementinc #inflow #inflowinventory

October 6, 2025Episode 1552 min

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 - Teaser0:15 - Intro1:35 - 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 Campaign30:04 - 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 life45:11 - 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 - Outro52:19 - 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/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory #tariffs

July 21, 2025Episode 1440 min

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 launchesWhether 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 Teaser0:13 Intro1:17 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=2f45b350e474404bStay connected:https://www.facebook.com/inFlowInventory/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/5276148/admin/feed/inflowinventoryhttps://www.instagram.com/inflow.inventory/https://www.tiktok.com/@inflowinventoryhttps://twitter.com/inflowinventory#inventory #inventorymanagement #inflow #inflowinventory