Agentic AI and the Future of Distribution with Ian Heller of Distribution Strategy Group

Agentic AI and the Future of Distribution with Ian Heller of Distribution Strategy Group

Author: Jason Bader, Distribution Team March 25, 2026 Duration: 36:07

AI is here. Now what? If you're a distributor who's struggling to answer, you're in good company. Distributors as a whole are cautious about buying into broad-appeal solutions. But, they're not Luddites. Instead, they want products that provide industry-focused context and bottom-line value. There's no better ambassador for AI and how to successfully apply the tech to distribution than Ian Heller, co-founder and chief strategy officer of the Distribution Strategy Group, and host of the innovative Applied AI for Distributors 2026 summit. 

There's also no better way to toast the 200th episode of Distribution Talk than with this conversation between two longtime friends. Jason caught up with Ian to discuss the future of AI in distribution, the expanding use of agentic AI, and the exciting program of expert knowledge, topics, and implementation strategies scheduled for this year's summit.

CONNECT WITH JASON

LinkedIn

CONNECT WITH IAN

Distribution Strategy Group 

Applied AI for Distributors 2026

LinkedIn

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For full show notes and services visit: https://www.distributionteam.com

Distribution Talk is produced by The Distribution Team, a consulting services firm dedicated to helping wholesale distribution clients remove barriers to profitability, generate wealth, and achieve personal goals.   

This episode was edited by The Creative Impostor Studios

Special thanks to our sponsors for this episode: Connected Peers, providing virtual communities for wholesale distributors; and INxSQL Distribution Software, an integrated distribution ERP software designed for the wholesale and distribution industry.


Tune in to Distribution Talk for a grounded conversation about the real world of wholesale distribution. Hosted by Jason Bader and the Distribution Team, this podcast moves beyond theory to explore the actual stories of people running businesses in this vital sector. Each episode connects you with owners and industry thinkers who share their firsthand experiences-not just their successes, but the tangible challenges and practical solutions they've discovered along the way. You'll hear candid discussions about managing operations, navigating market shifts, and building a sustainable company. It’s a resource for anyone involved in distribution, from seasoned executives to new entrepreneurs, offering insights that are directly applicable to the day-to-day grind and long-term strategy. By focusing on these authentic narratives, the podcast provides a unique lens on the business landscape, making complex topics of management and entrepreneurship feel accessible and relevant. If you're looking for genuine perspective from within the field, this is the conversation to join.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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