Rising Stars Podcast

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, “QSR Delivery Done Right: Labeling, Scales & a Big Thank You from Kate,” host Kate Orara explores how QSRs and fast-casual restaurants can boost order accuracy and streamline delivery operations using modern POS scales and labeling solutions. From sticky linerless labels to precision bag weighing, she shares how the right tools can reduce errors, im...

Join Kate Orara as she meets with Paul Leduc , CEO of Globe POS Systems , to explore how extended warranties are transforming the POS industry by minimizing downtime and protecting businesses’ most critical investments. Paul shares insights into common hardware failures, the real cost of POS system disruptions, and how extended warranties provide long-term savings and peace of mind. Listeners will...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, "Why Businesses Are Moving to Cloud-Based POS – And Why You Should Too," host Kate Orara explores the shift to cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) systems and why businesses are making the move. She breaks down the key advantages, from lower upfront costs and real-time data access to enhanced security and seamless scalability, helping VARs, ISVs, and busine...

Join Kate Orara as she sits down with Rob Nordby , Channel Sales Manager at Elo Touch Solutions, to uncover the secrets to building strong, profitable channel partnerships in today’s fast-moving tech landscape. Rob shares key traits of successful ISVs and VARs, offering expert insights into how partners can maximize their relationships with manufacturers like Elo and Star Micronics. Listeners will...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, "Navigating Tariff Policy Changes in the Retail Technology Industry," host Kate Orara offers actionable strategies for POS hardware professionals to stay informed and adapt to evolving tariffs. From assessing supply chain vulnerabilities to leveraging financial tools, Kate explores how VARs, ISVs, and distributors can protect their margins and support t...

Join Kate Orara as she sits down with Andy Szanger , Director of Strategic Industries at CDW , to explore the retail technology trends set to dominate NRF 2025, Retail's Big Show hosted by the National Retail Federation . Andy shares his expert insights on how advancements in self-service kiosks, payment technologies, and AI are shaping the future of the retail industry. Listeners will gain a deep...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, "The Future of Shopping: Virtual Try-Ons and AI Smart Carts," host Kate Orara explores two groundbreaking innovations reshaping the retail experience. From Goddiva’s virtual fitting room technology with Zyler to Intermarché’s AI-powered smart carts in France , Kate dives into how these advancements are redefining customer engagement and workflow effecti...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, "Prop 65 Compliance Made Simple for Resellers," host Kate Orara breaks down California’s Proposition 65 regulations and what they mean for Value-Added Resellers (VARs) in the retail technology space. Kate explains the basics of Prop 65, from identifying products with listed chemicals to ensuring proper labeling, so resellers can protect their business a...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, "POS Partnership Tips: Choosing the Right Hardware Manufacturer," host Kate Orara shares expert advice for independent software vendors (ISVs) and resellers navigating the search for the ideal POS hardware partner. Kate outlines the top factors to consider when forming partnerships, focusing on integration support, joint marketing opportunities, and a c...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, "Choosing the Right Channel Partner Program for POS Success," host Kate Orara offers crucial insights for value-added resellers (VARs) and independent software vendors (ISVs) seeking effective POS partnerships. Kate discusses the essential qualities to look for in a channel partner program, emphasizing how the right support and resources can drive growt...

Join Kate Orara as she chats with James Korte , Director of Marketing at BlueStar , about the latest channel marketing strategies and digital marketing trends. James shares his insights on what the channel hasn’t fully embraced yet and discusses his favorite digital marketing campaigns that set the standard for creativity and effectiveness. Listeners will learn about the biggest mistakes businesse...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, host Kate Orara discusses "Top 10 Retail Cybersecurity Tips to Protect Your Clients," providing valuable insights for VARs and ISVs working with retail clients. Focusing on enhancing cybersecurity measures, Kate breaks down key strategies that resellers can recommend to protect retail businesses from evolving cyber threats. From endpoint protection and...

Join Kate Orara as she talks with Tyler Wells, ISV & Strategic Partner Manager at MicroTouch, about the challenges and opportunities of generational selling within retail technology. Tyler offers his expertise on how retailers can effectively engage Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z by tailoring their tech solutions and communication strategies to each group’s preferences. Listeners...

Join host Kate Orara as she chats with Frank Olea , CEO of Olea Kiosks, about the future of self-service kiosk technology. Frank shares insights into implementing kiosk solutions that enhance customer engagement across industries like healthcare, hospitality, and entertainment, while offering strategies to future-proof systems against inevitable hardware and software changes. Listeners will learn...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, host Kate Orara explores the differences between SteadyLAN and TetherLAN technology for POS printers, helping you make an informed decision for your business. Drawing from a detailed Star Micronics blog post, Kate explains how these technologies foster seamless connections and optimize workflow in various retail and hospitality environments. Tune in to...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, host Kate Orara explores the game-changing benefits of linerless sticky label printers for cafes and coffee shops. Drawing insights from a recent Star Micronics blog post, Kate highlights how this innovative technology can revolutionize daily operations, enhance customer service, and reduce waste. Tune in to learn how linerless sticky label printers spe...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, host Kate Orara explores the benefits of driver's license barcode parsing for value-added resellers (VARs). Learn how this technology helps clients streamline operations, enhance customer service, and ensure regulatory compliance across various industries. Discover practical ways to incorporate barcode parsing into your offerings to elevate your service...

Join host Kate Orara on the Rising Stars Podcast as she explores the challenges of navigating change in the retail technology industry. In this episode, Blake Gillum , President of Data Enterprises, Inc. and on the RSPA Board, offers his insights on staying relevant in a highly dynamic landscape. With nearly 15 years of experience, Blake discusses how his company has adapted to industry shifts, em...

Join host Kate Orara on the Rising Stars Podcast as she explores the latest in retail technology solutions. This episode features Brett Bennett , co-founder and President of POSitive Technology . Brett shares how OpSuite and OpSuitePOS are setting new standards in retail management and POS systems. Listeners will also learn about Brett's role as Board Chair of the Retail Solutions Providers Associ...

On this episode of the Rising Stars Podcast, host Kate Orara reveals the essentials of crafting a powerful personal professional brand on LinkedIn. She shares her top three tips for leveraging LinkedIn effectively to enhance your professional presence, whether you're a novice or an experienced LinkedIn user. Tune in to learn how to make a solid first impression with your LinkedIn profile, share va...

Join host Kate Orara on the Rising Stars Podcast as she explores the latest developments in retail technology solutions. This episode, featuring David Soden , CEO of award-winning global SaaS provider Aptimyz , provides an in-depth exploration of the innovations reshaping retail management and operations. Listeners will gain insights into how Aptimyz has evolved to meet the needs of modern retail,...

Join host Kate Orara on the Rising Stars Podcast as she explores the evolving world of cannabis retail technology. This episode, featuring Gerson Cedillos , CEO of Professional Label Solutions (PLS) , provides a comprehensive look at the current trends and future directions of cannabis POS systems in this fast-growing industry. Listeners will learn how PLS has adapted to and thrived in this dynami...

Tune into the latest episode of the Rising Stars Podcast with host Kate Orara as she explores a piece of the POS technology world. With our special guests, Joshua Ventocilla and Oreoluwa Akeredolu from Star Micronics, discover the unique benefits of SteadyLAN and TetherLAN, highlighting how these innovative technologies ensure stable and continuous operations in diverse POS environments. Whether y...

Join Kate Orara in this solo episode of the Rising Stars Podcast as she explores the rising world of social commerce. What makes platforms like Instagram and Facebook new frontiers for retail? Kate discusses the key elements that transform social media into powerful sales channels, emphasizing the impact of authenticity and user-generated content. Tune in to discover ideas that could revolutionize...

Join Kate Orara in this solo episode of the Rising Stars Podcast as she explores the transformative power of food packaging labels and strategic labeling in the hospitality industry. Discover how innovations like linerless labels are reshaping restaurant and online order management, enhancing brand visibility, and driving sustainable practices. Tune in to uncover how labeling can elevate your busi...