
Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution Podcast
Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution is the weekly podcast sponsored by LeadSmart Technologies that takes a deep dive into the topics impacting manufacturers, wholesale distribution, independent sales agents, and the global wholesale supply chain.
Hosted by Kevin Brown, a 30-year veteran of wholesale distribution, and Tom Burton, a recognized thought leader in SaaS platforms for distributors, each episode reveals a unique perspective and valuable information about wholesale distribution. Debuting in February 2023, the ATHIWD podcast springboards from Kevin & Tom's popular LinkedIn and Facebook Live shows, bringing their industry insights to a wider audience.
Whether it's M&A, SaaS and cloud computing, B2B e-Commerce or supply chain issues, we peel back the onion into the topics that impact your business most.
Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution Podcast
Tariffs, Trade Wars, and the Rise of Made-in-America.
This week, Kevin and Tom tackle the economic, political, and technological shifts shaking up the wholesale distribution and manufacturing world. From skyrocketing tariffs to volatile markets to the return of onshoring, this episode weaves together sharp insights and real-time headlines to deliver one big takeaway: transformation is happening fast, and those who adapt will thrive.
Even as Kevin battles a flu and Tom busts out a mid-show solo monologue, the duo dives deep into the nuances of U.S.–China trade tensions, the potential military implications of tariff disputes, and the quiet but powerful resurgence of American manufacturing. They also highlight a shift in the sales mindset—from expansion through M&A to growth through untapped customer potential—anchored by a discussion of Tom’s latest article on organic growth.
The episode closes with a look at AI hiring policies, Amazon’s China dependency, and why Walmart may quietly be preparing to dominate B2B distribution.
While this episode features no outside guests, the “regulars” return:
Bob Britton & Scott Leith, frequent contributors from the audience, add real-time industry and financial perspective that elevate the discussion.
Key Takeaways:
AI-driven market activity is reshaping Wall Street—and few are ready for the consequences.
New tariffs are shaking global trade norms; their scope is broader than most businesses anticipated.
U.S. manufacturers are outpacing expectations in their tech adoption and pipeline activity.
Walmart is positioning itself to challenge Amazon in the B2B space, quietly and strategically.
Organic growth is becoming the smarter play for distributors facing uncertain capital markets.
Tariff and trade negotiations could become geopolitical flashpoints—and the market is watching.
Amazon may be vulnerable, as 70% of its marketplace products come from China.
Leave a Review: Help us grow by sharing your thoughts on the show.
Learn more about the LeadSmart AI B2B Sales Platform: https://www.leadsmarttech.com/
Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.
Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.
You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.