Thinking

Direct takes on the things that matter

What I’d Do Today: Lessons from a Direct Selling Leader Turned Software Maker

AI can not do a lot. Replacing a purpose-built commission engine isn't one of them. Here's what vendors aren't telling you.

What Training at 60 Has Taught Me About Running a Business

Discipline, recovery, and long-term thinking aren't principles I invented for the gym. They're how I've run every company I've been part of.

The Shopify List — Which Direct Selling Companies Are Running on Shopify

The move to Shopify is real and accelerating. Here's what the data shows and what it means for where the industry is heading.

What Gets Broken When You Move to a New Platform

Platform migrations fail in predictable ways. Most of the damage happens before the project kicks off, not during it.

Why Your Top Distributors Are Looking for the Exit

Retention problems don't start with compensation. They start with something most executives never see from the boardroom.

What In-House Commission Builds Get Wrong

Platform migrations fail in predictable ways. Most of the damage happens before the project kicks off, not during it.

Let’s Talk

Most good things start with a real conversation.

If you’re working through a challenge in your organization — platform decisions, field strategy, leadership questions — I’m glad to talk. No pitch. No agenda. Just a direct conversation with someone who’s been there.

I respond to every inquiry personally.

RODGER SMITH

Strategist · Advisor · CEO, ShopIQ

© 2026 Rodger Smith