We’re just really focused on, again, trying to solve the key problems for our customers in the best possible way. We know that it has to be simple at that level and really beautiful design, so that they don’t have to worry about their software. They’ve got so many problems to worry about. Software shouldn’t be one of them.

– Jarrod Adam, Head of Production & Distribution at The Access Group

Today I’m speaking with Jarrod Adam, Head of Production & Distribution at The Access Group. In this episode, we talk about how Unleashed empowers small businesses with actionable data, AI-powered tools, and integrated inventory solutions. Some of the highlights of this interview are:

• Jarrod Adam and his background in product management
• The story behind Unleashed and its acquisition by The Access Group
• Overview of the inventory and warehouse management landscape for SMBs
• Unleashed’s value proposition for small businesses and advisors
• When and why to move from basic inventory in GL systems to dedicated inventory tools
• Implementation approach and onboarding process at Unleashed
• Unleashed’s ecosystem: integrations with Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more
• Evolving supply chain issues post-COVID and solutions like Advanced Inventory Manager (AIM)
• AI in Unleashed: Evo copilot, AI feed, and intelligent agents
• Partner Portal for accountants and bookkeepers – real-time client access
• Use of operational data for advisory services
• The Unleashed Manufacturing Health Index – valuable for advisory insights
• Discussion around the manufacturing “haves and have-nots”
• Closing thoughts on simplicity, design, and real value from software

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:

Unleashed, Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, Access Evo, Advanced Inventory Manager

⏱️ Timestamped Highlights

00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro: Meet Jarrod Adam from Unleashed.
01:58 – From Tigerland to Tech: A playful rugby-themed intro.
04:20 – Jarrod’s Journey to Product Management: How he fell into software.
06:20 – Auckland’s Thriving SaaS Scene: NZ’s impact on global tech.
08:10 – Inventory, CRM & WMS Landscape: What SMBs need today.
10:50 – What Unleashed Does: Efficient workflows + strategic insights.
13:00 – Signs a Business Needs Unleashed: From post-it notes to stock stress.
15:20 – Accountant & Bookkeeper Pain Points: Data, margins & advisory blocks.
17:30 – Implementation Timeline: Fast, guided onboarding sessions.
19:05 – Unleashed Integrations: Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more.
21:10 – E-commerce Growth Post-COVID: Why integrations are essential.
23:15 – AI & Forecasting with AIM: Managing supply chain uncertainty.
26:00 – Using Data for Better Advice: The power of operational insights.
28:00 – Manufacturing Health Index: A free resource for advisory.
30:00 – Characteristics of Thriving Manufacturers: Mitigating supplier risks.
32:15 – Partner Portal for Accountants: Real-time multi-client access.
34:00 – AI Copilot & Agents: How Evo enhances the user experience.
35:45 – Final Thoughts & Outro: Software should solve problems, not add them.