In this episode of The Real Finds Podcast, host Gordon Lamphere sits down with Rob Kress, founder of Waypost Advisors, to explore how mid-market manufacturers and distributors can strengthen supply chains, mitigate geopolitical risks, and boost operational efficiency in a world defined by tariffs, uncertainty, and shifting trade policies.

Rob draws on more than two decades of leadership in large international corporations to explain why middle-market companies, those under $1B in revenue, face unique supply chain challenges, from scarce resources and limited hiring power to the high costs of supplier diversification. He shares real-world case studies, including a medical device manufacturer that successfully implemented a dual-source strategy to reduce reliance on China, and a Midwest industrial client that saved $3M through network optimization.

They dig into the tough trade-offs between resiliency and efficiency, the real barriers to automation and AI adoption for mid-sized firms, and how companies can cut costs without layoffs by improving internal processes. Rob also offers guidance on spotting “AI snake oil” in a crowded market, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and building the operational muscle needed to navigate tariff shocks and global disruptions.

🔍 Key Topics Covered: - Why mid-market supply chains fail when scaling from $50M to $300M+ in revenue - Practical steps to de-risk global sourcing without destroying margins - How dual-sourcing and nearshoring can work—if you plan 6–18 months ahead - The role of automation and AI in cutting costs and improving supply chain agility - How to avoid AI hype and choose the right partners for real ROI - Building a culture of continuous operational improvement - How tariff policy, Mexico’s role, and incentive-driven site selection will shape U.S. industrial real estate

🔍 Key Topics Covered:

- Why mid-market supply chains fail when scaling from $50M to $300M+ in revenue

- Practical steps to de-risk global sourcing without destroying margins

- How dual-sourcing and nearshoring can work—if you plan 6–18 months ahead

- The role of automation and AI in cutting costs and improving supply chain agility

- How to avoid AI hype and choose the right partners for real ROI

- Building a culture of continuous operational improvement

- How tariff policy, Mexico’s role, and incentive-driven site selection will shape U.S. industrial real estate

Whether you’re an industrial real estate investor, manufacturing executive, or supply chain leader, this episode offers actionable insights for navigating one of the most volatile business landscapes in decades.

📚 Rob’s Recommended Read:

Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss — a masterclass in negotiation and empathy.

📍 Learn More About Rob & Waypost Advisors: https://www.waypostadvisors.com

📍 Learn More About Commercial Real Estate

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