Material Handling Masters Podcast

In the July 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:

Influence, Trust, and the Social Skills That Will Define Tomorrow’s Leaders

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Katie Richards sits down with leadership expert, workplace performance specialist, and Emerging Leaders Conference keynote speaker Henna Pryor to explore how professionals can stand out in an increasingly AI-driven world. Henna shares insights on influence, communication, adaptability, and why human-centered skills are becoming more important—not less—as technology advances.

From navigating uncertainty to building meaningful relationships and increasing your impact, this conversation offers practical takeaways for leaders at every stage of their career.

Key To...

Introducing the Quarterly Industry Sentiment Analysis

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Katie Richards welcomes Tim Dawson, Chief Research Officer at Interact Analysis, to discuss MHEDA’s new partnership with Interact Analysis and the value of industry sentiment data.

Tim shares how sentiment reports help capture the industry’s collective outlook by measuring trends in areas such as new orders, backlog, sales cycles, deal size, lead times, staffing, and employee retention. Unlike traditional benchmarking reports that require detailed financial input, sentiment reports provide a quick and confidential way for members to share their perspective on c...

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...

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...

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:

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 overal...

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, an...

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...

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 ma...

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:

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...

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 busi...

Navigating Uncertainty and Opportunity

As the material handling industry looks ahead to 2026, uncertainty around geopolitics, tariffs, and supply chain volatility continues to shape customer behavior and business strategy. This episode of Table Trends brings together MHEDA leadership and board members to discuss how these external forces are influencing pricing, purchasing decisions, and long-term planning across the industry.

The conversation explores the importance of transparency with customers, diversification of suppliers, and helping end users weigh the true cost of indecision against efficiency gains and operational improvements. Panelists also share how nearshoring, evolving lead times, and broader...

Building an Intentional Culture That Drives Performance

Company culture doesn’t happen by accident — and when it’s done right, it can transform everything from employee engagement to business performance.

In this episode, host Katie Richards sits down with Al Curnow, Vice President of CultureWise, to explore why culture matters, how leaders can shape it intentionally, and what consistent reinforcement looks like in practice.

Drawing on real-world examples from MHEDA member companies, Al shares how clearly defined behaviors, weekly rituals, and shared language can help organizations build strong foundations that support growth, retention, and le...

In the October 2025 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:

Leading with Passion and Purpose

In this episode, Katie Richards sits down with Lauren Reed, MHEDA’s newly appointed CEO, to discuss her journey from cold calling in the material handling industry to leading the association into an exciting new chapter. Lauren shares how her early experiences at Concept and Storage Solutions shaped her leadership style, the mentors who encouraged her to “dream big,” and her vision for driving MHEDA’s growth through collaboration, innovation, and member engagement. Tune in to hear Lauren’s insights on building strong networks, fostering meaningful connections, and creating lasting value for MHEDA membe...

The Art of Negotiation

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Shari Altergott, CEO of  The CX Edge, sits down with Fotini Iconomopoulos, negotiation and communication expert, author, and keynote speaker, to discuss how to confidently navigate difficult conversations, from salary discussions to high-stakes boardroom meetings. Fotini, a featured speaker at MHEDA’s upcoming 2025 Women in Industry Conference, shares powerful, practical insights drawn from decades of experience training leaders around the world. Through relatable examples, humor, and science-backed advice, Fotini helps listeners reframe negotiation as a collaboration, not a confrontation, and reminds us that authenticity and preparation are...

Century Strong: Adams Inc’s Journey

In this episode, Katie Richards chats with Tim Hager, President and Owner of Adams, Inc., headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota. Adams, Inc. is celebrating an incredible milestone — 100 years in business — and Tim shares what it means to carry that legacy forward while preparing for the next century. From a team of six making a lasting impact, to celebrating a century of success, this conversation highlights the strength of values-driven leadership and the future of material handling.

Key Topics Discussed

Master Manager Program

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Shari Altergott, CEO of The CX Edge, continues the conversation on MHEDA’s Master Manager Program. Returning guest Jeremy Wall, President of GoalMakers and program facilitator, is joined by Jim Ripkey, President of Hy-Tek Intralogistics and long-time MHEDA member and contributor. Together, they explore the critical skills of goal setting, leadership development, and coaching managers to move from “doers” to effective leaders.

Jeremy provides an overview of the 10-week program, which blends self-paced learning with live peer-to-peer sessions focused on people management, vision and strategy, custom...

Master Manager Program

In part 1 of this 2-part episode of MHEDA Talks, host Shari Altergott, CEO of The CX Edge, is joined by Mike Vaughan, CFO at Thompson & Johnson Equipment, and Jeremy Wall, co-founder and CEO at GoalMakers, to discuss MHEDA’s Master Manager Program. Now entering its fifth year, this 10-week hybrid program blends self-paced online learning with live biweekly Zoom sessions, designed to strengthen leadership, financial acumen, and operational effectiveness. Participants gain practical tools to improve decision-making, align team goals, and understand how every role impacts a company’s bottom line. Mike and Jeremy share real...

Evolving with Integrity

In this episode, Katie Richards chats with Katie Stephens, Marketing Manager at Morse Manufacturing, about leading a rebrand for a company with over 100 years of history in the material handling industry. With a background in construction equipment and dealership marketing, Stephens shares how she brought fresh perspective and strategy to Morse’s recent transformation—including the development of a new logo, revamped website, and modernized brand identity.

Katie discusses the importance of cross-departmental collaboration, the role of user experience in design, and how a simple realization—spotting an “M” hidden in the company’s...

In the July 2025 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:

In the July 2025 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:

The Power of Partnerships

In today’s dynamic business environment, strong partnerships are more critical than ever. This episode of Table Trends explores how material handling companies are building and maintaining meaningful relationships with key stakeholders — from OEMs and vendors to customers and internal teams. Guests discuss the importance of proactive communication, shared values, and consistent follow-up to ensure every partnership is built on trust and mutual success. Strategies include involving partners in regular team meetings, hosting lunch-and-learns, and empowering sales teams to build personal connections.

The conversation also dives into the unique challenges of bala...

Lifting Communities: Philanthropy in Action at Carolina Handling

In this episode, Katie Richards sits down with Joe Perkins, Chief Operating Officer of Carolina Handling, to explore his professional journey, leadership philosophy, and the powerful culture of service driving the organization. Joe reflects on his early days working in tobacco fields, his transition from customer to executive at Carolina Handling, and how servant leadership has shaped both his career and the company’s mission.

Joe also shares the story behind Carolina Handling’s community-focused initiatives—from supporting children with chronic illness to fighting hunger and addressing homele...

Bridging the Talent Gap in the Material Handling Industry

As the material handling industry faces a growing need for skilled labor, this episode dives into how companies are responding to the persistent talent gap. Leaders discuss strategies for both attracting top talent and upskilling existing employees to keep their workforce competitive, capable, and engaged.

From investing in technical colleges and dual enrollment programs to leveraging vendor partnerships for specialized training, companies are getting creative in how they build a pipeline of qualified technicians and managers. The episode also highlights the importance of supporting first-time managers...

Communication in the Workplace

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Shari Altergott, CEO of  The CX Edge, sits down with Pamela Barnum—former undercover police officer, federal prosecuting attorney, and now a highly sought-after communication expert. Pamela, a featured speaker at MHEDA’s upcoming Emerging Leaders Conference, shares her expertise on building trust, decoding nonverbal communication, and improving workplace dynamics in today’s fast-paced, digital world. Drawing from years of high-stakes experience, Pamela offers practical tools for navigating conflict, adapting to different communication styles, and leveraging emotional intelligence to foster stronger relationships at work and beyond.

K...

Supporting Employee Wellness in a Post-Pandemic Workplace

With mental health emerging as a top priority in the workplace, this episode explores how companies are evolving their approach to employee wellness. From implementing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to expanding counseling access and wellness initiatives, leaders share how they’re creating cultures of care and support.

Guests discuss the importance of manager training, daily one-on-one check-ins, and fostering open communication to identify and respond to employee needs. The conversation also highlights the rise in mental health conversations since 2020 and how companies are leveraging health insurance programs to of...

Uncertainty Brings Opportunity

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Shari Altergott, CEO of  The CX Edge, sits down with Gene Marks, President of The Marks Group and featured speaker at the upcoming MHEDA Convention later this month. Gene shares timely insights on the top challenges facing businesses in 2025, including economic uncertainty, labor shortages, tax shifts, and the rapid evolution of AI and automation in the material handling industry. Learn why uncertainty isn’t all bad, how to plan strategically, and what long-term moves can help your business stay competitive and sustainable through 2026.

Key Topics Dis...

In the April 2025 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 Indicators Used to Warn of a Slowdown

As companies navigate an uncertain economic landscape, industry leaders are closely monitoring a variety of signals—real estate activity, warehouse construction starts, unemployment rates, and ITA data—to better anticipate market shifts. This episode explores how those indicators are shaping business strategy and hiring decisions going into 2025.

Guests discuss shifting trends in e-commerce vs. brick-and-mortar, the normalization of supply chains, and how companies are using data and AI to gain efficiencies. From cautious optimism to strategic expansion, hear how material handling professionals are planning for growth in the...

Leading Change Management

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Shari Altergott, CEO of The CX Edge, speaks with Andrea Jones, CEO of The Executagility Company and Principal at Andrea Jones Consulting (AJC) and an upcoming speaker at the MHEDA Convention in April. They discuss the concept of change management, the challenges organizations face when implementing change, and practical strategies for successful execution. Andrea explains the importance of understanding the people side of change, ensuring employee buy-in, and avoiding common pitfalls that cause change initiatives to fail. She also shares insights on leadership’s role in driving tr...

Cybersecurity in the Age of Automation

With automation and AI playing a larger role in day-to-day operations, cybersecurity has become a top concern for businesses across the material handling industry. This episode explores how leaders are implementing company-wide training programs, strict access controls, and advanced email security measures to defend against potential breaches. Learn how your workforce can become your strongest line of defense—and why cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue, but a company-wide responsibility.

Featured Guests

Adopting Emerging Technologies: Challenges and Opportunities

In this Table Trends episode, hear from experienced executives as they share insights into integrating new technologies into their businesses. Topics include safety innovations, overcoming the fear of change within teams, customer hesitations, and the transformative role of AI tools in day-to-day operations. Discover how to stay competitive and agile as technology continues to reshape the industry.

Featured Guests

Whether you’re evaluating automation solu...

Preparing for ProMat 2025 with Daniel McKinnon

In this episode, Katie Richards interviews Daniel McKinnon to explore the exciting world of ProMat 2025 and its impact on the material handling industry. Daniel shares his journey into the exhibitions industry and how his passion for connecting people and ideas has shaped his career. He offers an insider’s perspective on what makes ProMat a must-attend event, from cutting-edge technology showcases to invaluable networking opportunities. With practical advice for both seasoned attendees and first-timers, Daniel emphasizes the importance of being open to spontaneous conversations that often lead to game-changing insights.

Inside MHEDA: A Conversation with Darin Boik

In this episode, Katie Richards sits down with Darin Boik to explore his professional journey and insights into the material handling industry. Darin reflects on his early career experiences, from working in produce fields to his transition into automation and sales. He shares how his technical background has shaped his leadership style and how Advanced Equipment Company differentiates itself with a customer-first approach. As MHEDA’s 2025 Convention Chair, Darin provides an inside look at what attendees can expect, emphasizing the power of networking and industry collaboration.

Key Topics Di...

In the January 2025 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:

Inside MHEDA: New Initiatives & Future Direction

In this episode of MHEDA Talks, host Shari Altergott, Chief Experience Officer of The CX Edge, sits down with Jeannette Walker to discuss her first year leading the organization and shares key initiatives that have shaped MHEDA’s future direction. They discuss MHEDA’s efforts to deeply understand the three primary industry segments—Industrial Trucks, Storage and Handling, and Systems Integrators—ensuring MHEDA’s offerings meet the needs of its members. She also highlights the launch of MHEDA’s new website and logo, designed to enhance member engagement and align with the evolving...

Economic Advisory Report – October 2024

In the October 2024 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