Are You Making Data-Driven Decisions or Just Having Opinions? with Paul Graeve
July 25, 2025
In this episode of the eCom Ops Podcast, Norbert chats with Paul "Gravy" Graeve, Founder & CEO of The Data Group, about making data simple, fast, and effective. No fluff - just frameworks, clarity, and real business outcomes.
Are You Making Data-Driven Decisions or Just Having Opinions?
In this data-packed episode, we sit down with Paul "Gravy" Graeve, founder and CEO of The Data Group, who's spent nearly three decades helping 300+ companies transform scattered information into strategic advantage.
Paul "Gravy" Graeve is the Founder & CEO of The Data Group and the upcoming author of The Data-Driven Leader. He has spent the past two decades helping over 300 companies demystify data, streamline integrations, and unlock significant growth.
The No.1 eCom Operations hack
"if you want to have a real grasp on the truth about your company, you need to have a real grasp on your data because it is the truth about your company."
You Will Learn
- Why "data is just strings, dates, and numbers" - and why that simplicity is powerful.
- The hidden trap of SaaS proliferation and how it's fragmenting your business intelligence.
- How a $6 billion wholesaler uses data integration to serve 14,000+ retail stores.
- The three critical questions every CEO should ask before buying new software.
- Why your next system migration could hold you hostage (and how to prevent it).
Resources Mentioned
- Upcoming Book: "The Data Driven Leader" by Paul Graeve (coming later this year)
- Leadership Influences: John Maxwell, Pastor Chris Hodges, Pastor Craig Groeschel
- Recommended Podcast: Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast
- Case Study: Orgill Wholesale ($6B revenue, 14K+ retail partners)
Show Notes
- (00:01:14) Meet Paul Graeve: The Man Behind the Data Group
- (00:04:02) Common Data Mistakes and Misconceptions
- (00:05:51) The Importance of Owning Your Data
- (00:08:28) Data Group's Flagship Platforms: Foxtrot, Alpha, and Tango
- (00:17:32) Writing 'The Data-Driven Leader'
- (00:19:36) Empowering Non-Technical Leaders with Data
- (00:21:17) Practical Steps for E-commerce Businesses
- (00:27:26) Leadership Lessons and Influences
- (00:30:05) Future of AI and Data Ownership
- (00:32:29) Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Let’s keep learning and growing together in the world of eCommerce!
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