The Zion Experience

What does success look like when you're automating inside a 3PL? In our latest TZE episode, Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank sit down with Ryan Martin, SVP of Distribution Services at ITS Logistics, to get real about what it takes to design systems in high-variability, contract-driven environments. Here’s what we cover: 🔹 Why automation must fit the business not just the customer 🔹 How to evaluate ROI...

Scalability can’t come at the cost of disruption. In our latest episode of the TZE Podcast, Jim Shaw, Jordan Frank, and Jen Thomas unpack the operational strategy behind Zion’s discovery process, covering everything from shared-use automation and modular sortation systems to flexible picking and packaging infrastructure. They discuss how designing with future clients, having variable order profile...

When it comes to goods-to-person systems, one size doesn’t fit all. In this episode, we sat down with Joe McGinnis from OPEX to break down when Perfect Pick® makes the most sense and where something else might be a better fit. Here’s what we'll discuss: 🔹 High-throughput environments with lower SKU variability 🔹Systems that handle dynamic SKUs across multiple aisles 🔹 The role of data analytics...

In the latest episode of The Zion Experience podcast, Jim Shaw, Jordan Frank, and Jacob McMillan share the behind-the-scenes story of a recent project and how designing for the final mile often means adjusting on the fly. From unexpected product mix changes to tricky packaging constraints, the team talks through the real-time problem-solving that went into making the system work smarter, not just...

In the latest episode of the TZE Podcast, Jim Shaw, Jordan Frank, and Chuck Frank discussed ProMat 2025, which sent a clear message: the industry isn’t standing still. We saw a big difference between launching something new and evolving something proven—from improved picking strategies to faster, smarter robots. From our team's perspective, the event felt less like an introduction and more like a...

In our latest episode of the TZE Podcast, Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank sit down with Pras Velagapudi from Agility Robotics to explore how humanoid robotics is making warehouse operations more adaptable, cost-effective, and future-ready. Digit is tackling inefficiencies by seamlessly unloading AMRs, bridging conveyors, and integrating into workflows—without major infrastructure changes.

In the latest episode of TZE Podcast, Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank sit down with Matt Kelly from Hai Robotics to explore the HaiPick Climb—a groundbreaking automation solution designed for simplicity, flexibility, and efficiency. By climbing warehouse racks, this innovative system maximizes throughput without the complexity of multiple robots or rigid automation structures. The result? Less infrastru...

In the latest episode of TZE Podcast, Jim Shaw sits down with Christian Seymour to explore the critical role of data discovery in supply chain design. Data paints a picture, but what happens when pieces of that picture are missing? Bad assumptions lead to bad outcomes. Incomplete case dimensions, pallet configurations, or order profiles can disrupt automation and warehouse systems, leading to inef...

In our latest TZE podcast episode, Jim Shaw sits down with Adam Wray to discuss one of the fundamental elements of warehouse operations: racking systems. While automation and robotics continue to reshape the industry, racking remains essential for maximizing storage capacity without increasing a facility’s footprint. From distribution centers to manufacturing plants, these systems provide the foun...

What does the future hold for supply chain operations? In our latest podcast, Jim Shaw, Jordan Frank, and Jake Scharff dive into one of MHEDA’s 2025 trends, discussing how businesses can adapt to meet growing demands. They reflect on the critical role of robotics, the challenges of balancing speed and scalability, and why strong partnerships remain critical for operational resilience. If you’re na...

In this special episode of the TZE Podcast, Jim Shaw, Jordan Frank, Chuck Frank, and Drew Eubank reflect on the moments that defined 2024—a year of growth, innovation, and impact. From engineering excellence to acts of kindness, this recap showcases the wins that shaped our team, partners, and communities. Join us in celebrating the successes of 2024 and hear what’s in store for 2025.

In Part 2 of our conversation with @Wesley Korir, hosts @Jim Shaw and @Jordan Frank explore how the Kenyan Kids Foundation is impacting Kenyan youth. Wesley shares how their scholarships enable talented athletes and academically gifted students to achieve their dreams and build brighter futures. This episode highlights the power of investing in people and creating opportunities that ripple across...

In Part 1 of our two-part episode, hosts Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank welcome Wesley Korir, Founder of the Kenyan Kids Foundation, to share his inspiring journey from athlete to community champion. Wesley discusses the mission behind Transcend, an organization dedicated to nurturing talented athletes and individuals of strong character. “It’s not enough to be a great runner; we’re building great peop...

In our latest episode of the TZE Podcast, hosts @Drew Eubank, @Jim Shaw, and @Amelia Zweizig share firsthand takeaways from their recent conference experience, diving into the technologies and strategies that are setting the pace for the industry. From the measured approaches of AI and data integration to the scaling lessons shared by industry leaders, this conversation gets honest about the hurdl...

What’s the biggest challenge for hands-on entrepreneurs? In the latest episode of our podcast, hosts Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank sit down with Brandon Clymer, Founder and CEO of Alleato Group, to dive into the complexities of leadership and scaling a business. Brandon reflects on his shift from project management to executive leadership, sharing insights on delegation, building the right team, and l...

In our latest TZE Podcast episode, hosts Jim Shaw, Jordan Frank, and Drew Eubank engage in an insightful conversation with Aron Kolosik, Founder of the podcast at Unstuck. Together, they explore topics of leadership, coaching, and professional growth within the supply chain industry. From the concept of "failing forward" to encouraging calculated risks, Aron brings a refreshingly candid perspectiv...

🚀 Season 2 of The Zion Experience Podcast is here! We’re excited to kick off the first episode of our new season with hosts Jim Shaw and Drew Eubank and a special guest—Sriram Sridhar, CEO of Addverb Americas. This conversation is about warehouse automation's future, from fixed vs. flexible automation to the value of multi-point solutions. Sriram breaks down the benefits of multi-point warehouse...

In our latest TZE Podcast episode, hosts Jim Shaw and Drew Eubank are joined by Christine Pfleckl, SVP of Global Supply Chain at FCP Euro. Christine shares insights on how shifting consumer demands reshape e-commerce operations, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing delivery speed and cost. Discover how the 'Amazon Effect' drives new expectations for faster delivery and higher customer s...

In the latest TZE Podcast, hosts Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank engage with Mansoor Khan, Founder and CEO of Cloud Supply Chain Solutions. They tackle the challenges of integrating complex robotics systems within existing supply chain processes and the essential role of data in driving efficiency. Mansoor emphasizes viewing warehouse operations as interconnected systems rather than isolated components....

In our latest episode of the TZE Podcast, hosts Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank welcome Steve Crowe, Editor for The Robot Report and a pivotal figure in the robotics community. Steve dives deep into the transformative potential of humanoid robots, drawing parallels with the initial skepticism faced by AMRs in their early days. In the discussion, Steve offers insights and forecasts on the future trends d...

In our latest episode of the TZE Podcast, host Jim Shaw had the privilege of speaking with Kelly Renz, CEO and Certified Pinnacle Guide at InVantage. Kelly guided Zion through our Pinnacle Journey and helped us implement a robust business operating system. Kelly shares invaluable insights into how structured operating systems, like Pinnacle, empower organizations by aligning human energy with busi...

In our newest TZE podcast episode, our hosts Chip Steffey and Chuck Frank sat down with Steve Simmerman and Melissa Valentine. We dive deep into our strategic partnership with @Locus Robotics and explore their inspiring journey and innovative solutions that are transforming warehouse operations globally. Episode highlights include: ➡️ An overview of the partnership's impact on warehouse productivi...

In the latest episode of the TZE Podcast, hosts Jim Shaw and Jordan Frank speak with Jeannette Walker, CEO of MHEDA. Jeannette shares her experiences from her tenure in the material handling industry, what lead to stepping into this new role, and detailing how MHEDA's commitment to equal member value and industry contribution sets it apart. This episode dives into the unique approach they takes in...

In the latest episode of the TZE Podcast, hosts Drew Eubank and Chip Steffey discuss the evolving role of robotics in material handling. Breaking down barriers of fear and misunderstanding, they discuss how robotics enhance and transform jobs rather than replace them – creating new opportunities for more fulfilling roles. Learn how Zion utilizes robotics to improve job satisfaction and operational...

On the latest TZE Podcast, hear from Justine Fitz, Emily Arp, Kyle Henderson, and Jacob McMillan about an inspiring day spent volunteering at ESP in Athens for their 2024 Summer Camp. This episode isn't just about what we did—it's about why we do it. Tune in as we discuss how giving back fits into Zion’s broader vision of leadership and community involvement, and why these activities are vital for...