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 gain valuable knowledge on the benefits of extended warranties, including how they enhance business continuity, reduce unexpected repair costs, and ensure seamless POS system performance. Paul also bre ..read more

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 business owners understand the long-term benefits. Discover how cloud POS keeps businesses competitive in a fast-changing market. Whether you're looking to future-proof your POS strategy or overcome objecti ..read more

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 learn best practices for partner collaboration, including how to leverage exclusive partner programs, optimize new product launches, and navigate common challenges in manufacturer-channel relationship ..read more

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 their customers amidst changing regulations. Discover practical tips on inventory management, cost modeling, and strengthening partnerships to mitigate risks and maintain competitiveness in the retail ..read more

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 deeper understanding of how mobile wallets, cryptocurrency, and machine learning are influencing POS system design and personalized marketing. Andy also highlights the most exciting innovations in retail tec ..read more

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 effectiveness. Learn how virtual try-ons are bridging the gap between online and in-store shopping, reducing returns, and boosting customer confidence. Discover the potential of AI smart carts to transform gr ..read more

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 and customers while staying compliant. Learn how updates to Prop 65, such as BPA-free receipt paper requirements and specific warning label guidelines, impact your inventory and customer communications ..read more

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 commitment to innovation. Discover how hardware and software integration tools, such as APIs and SDKs, along with co-marketing initiatives and access to reseller networks, can drive growth and elevate ..read more

In this episode of the Rising Stars podcast, join us for a discussion covering the rise of kiosks and self-service trends. Host Brianna Moriarty interviews Aaron Westphal, Director of Sales at Kiosk Group, an information technology company that creates innovative tablet kiosk hardware and software for a global client base. Together, Brianna and Aaron confront whether self-service is merely a temporary necessity, or if it’s more than that, quickly becoming part of everyday life. They discuss the many commercial benefits of kiosks, but also dive into how self-service technology is becoming multi ..read more

In this episode of the Rising Stars podcast, join us for a discussion about surviving the current supply-chain crisis. Host Brianna Moriarty interviews Brenda McCurry, Vice President of Merchandising at ScanSource, a leading global provider of technology products and solutions, focusing on point-of-sale, barcode, physical security, video, voice, and data networking. Together, Brianna and Brenda discuss the current state of the supply-chain, how to navigate and plan around delays, and using technology to develop point-of-sale systems that boost business. They also explore how ScanSource is educ ..read more