Shows
The Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Apple’s AI Talent Drain, Amazon & Walmart’s Prime Day Battle, Sam Altman’s AI WarningIn this episode of Retail Focus, John Suder discusses a significant shake-up in Apple's AI division following the departure of a key AI leader to Meta, leading to uncertainties about Apple's future in AI. We also cover the recent Prime Day battle between Amazon and Walmart, highlighting record sales and innovative tactics. Lastly, we explore Sam Altman's warning to Congress about the potential for AI-driven fraud and the need for urgent regulatory measures. Join us for insights on technology, retail competition, and the future of AI.00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping00:51 Apple's AI Ta...2025-07-2413 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Amazon’s AI Agent Store, Grok Comes to Tesla, McDonald’s AI Blundern this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz discuss several exciting topics: The launch of Amazon's AI Agent Store, Tesla's integration of the Grok AI chatbot into their vehicles, and a significant data security flaw in McDonald's hiring system. They delve into the potential impacts, benefits, and drawbacks of these advancements while providing their unique insights. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the latest in retail and tech!00:00 Introduction and Weekly Highlights02:11 Amazon's New AI Agent Store06:55 Tesla's Grok AI Integration17...2025-07-1723 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Amazon Prime Day Sales Plunge, Microsoft’s Medical AI Tool, AI Talent WarIn this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz discuss their latest adventures, including John's excitement for the Tour de France. They dive into Amazon Prime Day's significant sales downturn and its potential implications on consumer spending and the broader economy. The discussion also covers Amazon's AI shopping bot's performance issues, a new Microsoft medical AI tool, and the intense competition for AI talent among tech giants. Tune in for insights on these topics and more!00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Greetings00:27 John's Awesome Thing: Tour de France2025-07-1027 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Walmart's ‘Dark Stores’, AI Vending Test, Google Doppl Virtual Try-onIn this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz dive into Walmart's latest innovation - dark stores designed to speed up online order fulfillment. They also explore the humorous and insightful results of Anthropic's AI managing a vending machine in Project Vend. Plus, discover Google's new app Doppl, which allows for virtual outfit try-ons using AI. Join us for insightful discussions on the evolving retail landscape and the role of AI in business.00:00 Introduction and Catching Up01:18 Walmart's Dark Stores Initiative06:47 AI's Struggles with Sma...2025-07-0325 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Apple Courts Perplexity, OpenAi/Jony Ive Legal Woes, Tesla Robotaxi TrialsIn this episode of Retail Focus, John Suder covers major tech stories, including Apple's rumored $14 billion acquisition talks with AI search startup Perplexity, and the legal challenges facing Johnny Ive and OpenAI's new AI-powered device. The episode also delves into Tesla's initial trials of its driverless RoboTaxi service in Austin, Texas, highlighting both the innovative potential and the early technical hiccups. Stay tuned for the latest updates on these developments in the tech world.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:15 Apple's Potential Acquisition of Perplexity AI03:20 OpenAI and Jony Ive's AI De...2025-06-2613 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Starbucks AI Baristas, 40% of Workers Now Use AI, Meta Partners with Brands on SmartglassesWelcome to another episode of Retail Focus with John Suder and Bart Mroz! This week, we delve into Starbucks' innovative AI-powered virtual assistant, Green Dot Assist, designed to enhance barista efficiency and customer service. We also explore the rise of AI adoption in the workplace, with 40% of US employees using AI tools. Lastly, we discuss Meta's exciting new partnerships with Oakley and Prada for AI-powered smart glasses, marking a significant step towards wearable technology. Stay tuned for a lively discussion on the future of AI in retail, workplace productivity, and wearable tech...2025-06-1927 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)WWDC 2025 Recap, Apple's New AI and Liquid Glass Design, and Amazon's Delivery RobotsIn this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz dive into a plethora of engaging topics. The main segment provides an in-depth recap of Apple's WWDC 2025, highlighting the new liquid glass design, AI enhancements, and changes to software naming conventions. John and Bart discuss the overhaul in iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and more, including the impact on user experience and upcoming features. The episode also delves into the delay in Siri's AI upgrade and its market impact. Finally, they talk about Amazon's ambitious plans to introduce AI-powered humanoid robots for...2025-06-1231 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Builder.ai Scandal, Peloton's New Strategy, Meta Ads Go AIIn this episode of Retail Focus, John Suder and Bart Mroz dive into the controversy surrounding Builder.ai, a once-prominent AI startup now facing serious allegations of financial misconduct and insolvency. They also discuss the rise and fall of Peloton, including its new initiative 'Peloton Repowered' aimed at selling pre-owned equipment. Additionally, the hosts explore Meta's push to automate ad creation using AI and the larger implications of AI on creativity in advertising. Join us for an in-depth look at these hot topics and more!00:00 Introduction and Weekly Highlights01:55 AI Startup Sc...2025-06-0625 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Google Reimagines Search, X Money in Beta, Rick Rubin’s ‘Way of the Code’Join hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz in this episode of Retail Focus as they discuss Google's revolutionary AI-driven search enhancements and its implications for ads and SEO. They also dive into Elon Musk's ambitious new financial feature, X Money, beginning its limited beta on the X platform. Lastly, explore music producer Rick Rubin's unique collaboration with AI experts on The Way of Code. Don't miss their insights and opinions on these major tech developments.00:00 Introduction and Weekly Highlights00:46 Google's AI-Powered Search Transformation08:26 Twitter's Financial Feature: X Mon...2025-05-2922 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Google I/O Recap, OpenAI’s $6.5B Move to HardwareIn this episode of Retail Focus, host John Suder discusses major developments in the AI industry. Highlights include Google's unveiling of their AI system Gemini at Google I/O, its integration into various Google products, and exciting new AI-powered tools and devices such as Gemini Live, Project Astra, and smart glasses with Android XR. Additionally, John covers OpenAI's acquisition of Jony Ive's startup 'IO' for 6.5 billion dollars, signaling their move into the hardware space. The episode concludes with a detailed description of OpenAI's forthcoming AI-powered devices designed by Jony Ive.00:00 Introduction and...2025-05-2209 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Trade War Ceasefire, Magento Hack, Saudi AI AmbitionsJoin John Suder and Bart Mroz in this episode of Retail Focus as they discuss a range of hot topics. They dive into the latest trade developments, including a 90-day tariff ceasefire between the U.S. and China and its implications for global markets and businesses. They also explore a significant Magento hack impacting major brands like RayBan and Whirlpool, highlighting the critical importance of cybersecurity in e-commerce. Finally, they delve into Saudi Arabia's massive $600 billion investment in AI through its new venture 'Humane,' outlining potential global impacts and the role of maj...2025-05-1528 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)19B Passwords Leaked, Anthropic CEO: We Don’t “Get” AI, QVC Goes 24/7 on TikTokWelcome to this week's episode of Retail Focus! John Suder dives into three major stories: a staggering 19 billion passwords have been leaked online, raising serious cybersecurity concerns; Anthropic's CEO admits even AI experts don't fully understand generative AI systems, highlighting potential risks; and QVC brings its classic shopping experience to TikTok with nonstop live streams targeting new generations of shoppers. Tune in for these stories and more, and don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe!00:00 Welcome to Retail Focus00:13 19 Billion Passwords Leaked: Are Yours Safe?01:59 Anthropic CEO's Shocking AI Ad...2025-05-0810 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)UPS Layoffs, OpenAI Shopping Tool, Slate: The $20K EV PickupJoin hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz in this episode of Retail Focus where they discuss the recent 20,000 layoffs at UPS, the new AI shopping feature introduced by OpenAI, and Slate's $20,000 EV pickup truck. They also touch on the impact of Amazon's reduced package volume on UPS, the differences in consumer habits between Americans and Europeans, and the implications of these trends on the logistics sector. Tune in for insights into the world of retail, technology, and consumer culture.00:00 Welcome to Retail Focus00:12 Weekly Highlights: Weather and Sports02:40 UPS La...2025-05-0129 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Temu/Shein Ad Crash, Google’s Legal Woes, More Tesla TroubleJoin John Suder and Bart Mroz on this episode of Retail Focus as they dive into the shocking pullback of ad budgets by Chinese e-commerce giants Temu and Shein due to the end of the De Mimis tariff loophole. Discover how this impacts the retail sector and advertising platforms. We also cover Google's recent legal battles, including being found guilty of running an illegal ad monopoly and what this means for the future of big tech. Lastly, we unravel Tesla's mysterious $1.4 billion discrepancy and discuss the company's current financial and competitive challenges. Tune in...2025-04-2422 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)China Trade War Escalates, WordPress AI, BNPL Insights, Algolai’s AI Shopping ToolIn this episode of Retail Focus, John Suder and Bart Mroz discuss the escalating China Trade War and its impact on prices, jobs, and businesses. They delve into the U.S. imposing a 145% tariff on Chinese imports and China's 125% retaliation on American goods, leading to unstable market conditions and potential job losses. They also review WordPress' new AI site builder and its efficiency for small businesses, compared to other alternatives like Squarespace.The hosts then explore the growing trend of using Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services for major purchases like Coachella tickets an...2025-04-1726 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Tariff Whiplash, Google’s AI Talent Strategy, OpenAI’s Secret DeviceThis week: Masters Golf, Amazon's Supply Chain Squeeze, and Google's AI StrategyJoin hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz in this episode of Retail Focus as they dive into a whirlwind week of retail and tech news. Bart kicks off with a wholesome birthday celebration, while John shares his excitement for the Masters golf tournament. Then, they tackle the hefty topic of Trump's new tariffs, their impact on the global market, and Amazon's struggle with rising costs. The conversation shifts to Google's creative strategy to retain AI talent and Shopify's innovative rul...2025-04-1129 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Tariff Terrors, RIP Zelle App, QVC LayoffsIn this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz discuss the latest bombshell in retail tariffs announced by the US government, including a 10% universal tariff on all imports and varying higher tariffs on countries like China, Vietnam, and Japan. They delve into the implications for different sectors, especially e-commerce and drop shipping, and the ensuing market reactions. Additionally, they touch on recent news about the shutdown of the Zelle standalone app, the downsizing of QVC, and the broader trends in digital payment and live shopping. Tune in for an insightful and...2025-04-0331 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)The Fall of 23andMe, Amazon Spring Sale, Tesla Cybertruck RecallIn this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz dive into recent news and trends in the retail and tech industries. They kick off with personal updates, including Bart's recent move and John's excitement for baseball's opening day. The main segments cover the downfall of 23andMe, which has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after a data breach and an unsuccessful business model, and the ongoing challenges and recalls facing Tesla's Cybertruck. They also discuss Amazon's spring sale and its attempt to compete with discount giants like Temu and Shein. ...2025-03-2726 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Southwest Bag Policy Change, Alexa Update & Vibe CodingIn this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz discuss the upcoming changes at Southwest Airlines, including the end of its 'Bags Fly Free' policy starting May 28th, and the implications this has for passengers and the airline industry. They also cover the latest update from Amazon's Alexa, which will soon move all voice recordings to the cloud. In a fascinating segment, John and Bart dive into 'Vibe Coding', a new trend where AI writes code based on developer prompts, exploring its benefits and potential pitfalls. Tune in for insights, laughs, and the latest in retail...2025-03-2026 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Home Depot's New Move, Apple to Get OS Glow-up & Elon's Very Bad WeekIn this episode of Retail Focus, John Suder and Bart Mroz discuss tech and retail news, and weekly happenings. Highlights include Home Depot's partnership with DoorDash and Uber Eats for rapid delivery, Lowe's digital strategies, updates coming to Apple's iOS, iPadOS, and MacOS inspired by Vision Pro's Mixed Reality headset, and Elon Musk's tumultuous 24 hours, including Tesla stock drop, Twitter outages, and controversial statements. 00:00 Introduction and New Background00:21 Awesome Things of the Week01:44 Home Depot's New Delivery Partnerships03:18 Lowe's Digital Transformation and AI Initiatives06:04 Apple's Upcoming Software Ov...2025-03-1327 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Farewell to Skype, eCom Hits Sales Record in Q4 2024, OpenAI NewsFarewell to SkypeToday, we honor the memory of Skype, the app that could have ruled the video call world—but instead, fumbled its way into obscurity. Pour one out for - or send a Zoom link - to this fallen icon.E-Commerce Sales Hit Record in Q4 2024According to the numbers, online sales reached an all-time high, fueled by deep discounts, holiday panic buying, and that sweet, sweet dopamine hit of clicking "Add to Cart." Amazon, Walmart, and every brand with a functioning website cashed in while we all pr...2025-03-0625 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Hooters & Forever 21 Bankruptcy, Tik Tok Shop Dominates eCom, Amazon vs Walmart, Amazon Shutters Inspire, What is Rufus?In this episode of Retail Focus, host John Suder discusses the absence of his co-host Bart Meraz due to illness before diving into several pressing retail stories. First, Hooters faces a potential Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing due to significant debt and declining sales, with the company closing numerous locations and struggling with overdue supplier bills. The episode also covers Forever 21's potential second bankruptcy in six years, likely resulting in the closure of hundreds of stores. Additionally, John explores the rise of TikTok Shop in the e-commerce space, its rapid growth, and potential concerns ove...2025-02-2717 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Apple’s Robot Revolution, BuzzFeed’s Social Gamble, and HP’s Big AI AcquisitionRetail Focus: Apple & Meta's Humanoid Robot Battle, BuzzFeed's BF Island, and HP's AI AcquireIn this episode of Retail Focus, John Suder and Bart Mroz dive into various tech stories, starting with the competition between Apple and Meta over the next big thing: humanoid robots. They explore the differing strategies of Meta's open-source approach and Apple's integrated control. Watch: Apple's Tabletop Robot DemoThe duo also discuss BuzzFeed's ambitious plan to launch a new social network called BF Island, aiming to create a joyful, algorithm-free online space. 2025-02-2024 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Tariffs, Apple’s SMB Push, Tech Woes, Netflix Eyes Podcasts, Tesla Sales DropJohn Suder and Bart Mroz on this episode of Retail Focus as they discuss the exciting win of the Eagles in the Super Bowl, the impact of new tariffs on e-commerce, and how it's shaking up the market. They dive into Apple's renewed focus on small and medium-sized businesses, the troubling rise of unemployment in the tech sector due to automation and AI, and Netflix's potential entry into the video podcasting space. Plus, they examine Tesla's plummeting sales and what it means for the future of electric vehiclesFollow Us:2025-02-1431 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)UPS to Scale Back on Amazon, eCommerce Accountability Measures by EU, Who’s buying TikTok? India eCom Hack, Apple Kills AR GlassesIn this episode of Retail Focus, hosts John Suder and Bart Mroz delve into multiple topics shaping the retail and tech landscape. They discuss UPS's decision to reduce its reliance on Amazon for deliveries in favor of higher-margin sectors, which includes a focus on healthcare and international logistics. The European Union's efforts to hold e-commerce giants accountable for unsafe goods and new regulatory measures are examined. The hosts also cover the ongoing saga involving potential American investments in TikTok amidst national security concerns, an amusing e-commerce hack in India, and Apple's decision to scrap its AR glasses project. Additionally...2025-02-0727 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)DeepSeek's Disruption, OpenAI Introduces Operator, Wix Integrates with YouTube Shopping, eBay Tries to Turn Sellers into Buyers, CVS App to Unlock Secured MerchandiseIt's Epsiode 2 of The Retail Focus Podcast, and this week, we discuss DeepSeek's Disruption, OpenAI Introduces Operator, Wix Integrates with YouTube Shopping, eBay Tries to Turn Sellers into Buyers, CVS App to Unlock Secured Merchandise.The Retail Focus podcast features two podcast and eCommerce veterans: Bart Mroz and John Suder. In their former lives, they produced the eCommerce Minute podcast from SUMO Heavy and released 788 episodes before sunsetting. Produced and edited by 1459pmThis program is supported by Nerve Tonic Brand. Born in 2012 out of sheer boredom and questionable decisions, Nerve Tonic Brand has s...2025-01-3126 minThe Digital Focus Podcast (formerly Retail Focus)Retail Focus: TikTok Phones, Store Openings (and closings), CES, Brands to WatchIt’s the premiere episode of The Retail Focus Podcast, and this week, we discuss TikTok loaded phones on eBay, Retail Store Openings (and closings) for ‘25, TikTok’s eCommerce push, the CES Wrap-Up, Brands to Watch, and Weekly commerce stats.
The Retail Focus podcast features two podcast and eCommerce veterans: Bart Mroz and John Suder. In their former lives, they produced the eCommerce Minute podcast from SUMO Heavy and released 788 episodes before sunsetting.
Produced and edited by 1459pm
This program is supported by Nerve Tonic Brand. Born in 2012 out of sheer boredom and questio...2025-01-2731 min