[email protected] / May 29, 2025

Recommendation for Interweave Technologies

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to highly recommend Interweave Technologies, a distinguished IT management company based in Huntsville, Alabama. Since its inception in 2005, Interweave Technologies has established itself for providing reliable and innovative technology solutions.

Interweave Technologies specializes in a wide array of services, including IT infrastructure management, network security, cybersecurity protection, and all-in-one technology support, all designed to help businesses optimize their technological environments. It takes a client-centric approach, ensuring that businesses receive comprehensive, scalable solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity.

The team at Interweave Technologies is another key strength of the company. Composed of highly skilled and dedicated professionals, they work collaboratively to provide top-tier service and support. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and proactive approach to problem-solving is evident in the long-term relationships they build with their clients.

I wholeheartedly recommend Interweave Technologies to any organization in need of IT management services. Its expertise, dedication, and exceptional service makes it a standout choice for any technological need.

Sincerely,

Jason Fish
Strategic-Partner
Schooley Mitchell

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Keana Morrison / May 5, 2025

To lower costs, companies are focusing on reducing return rates

Product returns are always an unhappy expense to a business. But if that involves paying for a customer to ship the product back to you, that expense is amplified. Amid rising expenses, including climbing shipping rates, many businesses are looking to combat budget constraints by tackling return rates. In this article, we take a look at this predicament, and what can be done to avoid your shipped goods being sent back to you.  

How much of an issue are return shipments?  

In 2024, the average return rate for ecommerce was 16.9% of sales – though some retailers are looking at numbers closer to 30%, depending on the product. Clothing and shoes, as well as other items requiring specific sizing, are often returned at higher rates. This number is also climbing, more than doubling from an average of 8.1% in 2019.  

That’s a pretty staggering number, when you picture between 17 and 30 of every 100 e-commerce purchases being returned. Then, imagine the shipping costs and other expenses associated with that rate. In 2024, consumer returned products cost American businesses $890 billion. On average, the cost to process a return can be anywhere from 20%–65% of the item’s original value. 

Trends show brands are changing their return policies.  

The Reverse Logistics Association’s (RLA) returns index for 2024 found that major brands are strategizing against cost increases by addressing return policies. Among a selection of American top hundred retailers: 

  • 30% charged restocking fees 
  • 75% limited what could and could not be returned 
  • Many offered better return options through subscriptions and customer loyalty programs 

Likewise, a different study by ReturnPro found that “that nearly 60% of retailers have keep-it policies for items that aren’t financially viable to ship back.” 

This isn’t only because of rising costs. The rise of fraudulent returns is also on the rise, causing a “significant issue” for as much as 93% of retailers. Protecting yourself against this expense is an important part of your logistics and fulfillment strategy.  

How do you reduce your business’ return rates?  

Charging for certain returns or having no-return policies on some items are some of the strategies businesses are using to reduce return rates. Some practices you may want to implement, if possible, include: 

  • Directing customers to post returns to your warehouse, rather than a brick-and-mortar store 
  • Directing customers to drop off returns physically, rather than shipping them back 
  • Including clear limits and cut offs in your return policy – for example, clearly stating how many days the customer has, what condition the item must be in, and what can be exchanged versus refunded 
  • Including clear and easy-to-find product information to reduce the amount of unnecessary returns 
  • Investing in smarter packaging materials to ensure the amount of returns due to damage in transit is minimal  
  • Investing in third-party software that can help identify and blacklist serial return fraud offenders 

Of course, returns will never entirely disappear. Mistakes happen, both on the seller and buyer’s ends. However, there are steps that can be taken to reduce your rates, beating the 17 in 100 statistic.  

Keana Morrison / April 14, 2025

Better Business Bureau of North Alabama’s recent Shred Day

I’m thrilled to share the incredible success of the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama’s recent Shred Day!♻️ As a proud volunteer, I was honored to support our community in this impactful event. Together, we safely shredded thousands of pounds of sensitive documents and responsibly disposed of harmful waste, protecting identities and the environment. The turnout was amazing, and seeing everyone come together to promote safety and sustainability was truly inspiring! Huge thanks to the BBB team, fellow volunteers, and all who participated. Let’s keep making a positive difference!

Ian Nairn / April 2, 2025

2025 AUSA Global Force Symposium & Exposition

Last week I attended the 2025 AUSA Global Force Symposium & Exposition.

The 2025 AUSA Global Force Symposium & Exposition explored the U.S. Army’s modernization strategy by fostering collaboration between military and industry leaders to drive transformational change and showcase cutting-edge technology. Key areas of focus included AI, cybersecurity, and advanced communication systems.

Key Objectives:
Focus on Army Modernization: The event centered around the Army’s efforts to modernize and evolve into a multi-domain capable force.

Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange: It served as a platform for senior military leaders, defense industry professionals, and key stakeholders to connect, share insights, and discuss critical topics like research and development, acquisition, and force sustainment.

Showcasing Technology: Attendees had the opportunity to see and discuss emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, and advanced communication systems.

Driving Transformational Change: The symposium fostered collaboration and drove change within the defense industrial base, ensuring the Army could conduct multi-domain operations (MDO).

Focus on the Future: The event examined the Army’s modernization strategy with an emphasis on maintaining an over-match in the context of great power competition.
This symposium played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Army and its relationship with the defense industrial base.

What a great networking and educational experience. I am already looking forward to next year’s event.

Keana Morrison / February 13, 2025

Press Release Feature: Schooley Mitchell Launches Sustainability Initiative

Check out this press release about Schooley Mitchell’s Ecodrive initiative. I am so proud to be part of a project that makes a real impact on our planet’s sustainability!

 

‘Schooley Mitchell has planted more than 1,000 trees under an initiative aimed at planet sustainability that was launched recently. Their goal is to plant 100,000 trees over the next three years.

In an effort to include their employees, individual consulting offices throughout the United States and Canada, as well as their clients, they are planting trees in various parts of the world and pulling plastic from the oceans. The initiative will tie the sustainability activities into their business transactions with these various groups.

They plant a tree each time they sign a client, in the name of that client. They plant trees and pull a pound of plastic when they receive referrals, in the name of the referral source. When they hire a new employee, they plant a tree in the name of that employee. There are several similar trigger points that involve their Franchised offices across North America.

Jason Fish, owner of a Huntsville consulting office with Schooley Mitchell is a part of the initiative and is involved by planting trees for each client obtained for their office.

Beth McMillan, President of Schooley Mitchell, stated, “One of our employees brought the idea to us and we were impressed with her passion for the project. We immediately identified the value we could deliver to so many people. We recognize we all have a responsibility to maintain our fragile world, and we just felt that taking on this project would be our way to help with the sustainability we need. We have dubbed the project, ‘Everyone Can Help’ and that truly is our hope, that people recognize the importance of an action so small as planting one tree and how that action can accumulate into something meaningful for our planet.”

She went on to say, “It has really brought us together as a company, to be pulling on the same rope. It surprised us how our people celebrate when we hit certain benchmarks. It’s rewarding to see the effect the project has had internally and externally.”

Schooley Mitchell has engaged a company called Ecodrive to manage the actual activities of tree planting and pulling plastic from the oceans. A by-product of the activities is the creation of new jobs in impoverished areas to execute the activities.

“There are so many benefits that have been delivered from such a simple idea. It’s very fulfilling”, said McMillan.’

Ian Nairn / February 3, 2025

Featured In South Huntsville Neighbors: Meet Jason Fish & Family

Original Post: South Huntsville Neighbors
Author: Jason & Courtney Fish as told to Bob Druckman, Publisher, South Huntsville Neighbors

Meet Jason Fish & Family

Tell us about your background, where you are both from originally? How long were you in the Army? When did you retire? What type of work does your wife do?
My wife and I are both originally from Vincennes; IN. Courtney is a geologist currently seeking employment, a stay-at-home mom, and an avid reader. I spent 21 years serving in the U.S. Army, primarily in the Infantry branch, before retiring on September 1, 2022.

I have always been a finance enthusiast and a meticulous planner. My passion for organization and strategy was reinforced through my education, earning an undergraduate degree in Business Administration and a master’s degree in Management and Leadership. These achievements sharpened my analytical mindset and strengthened my ability to communicate strategically.

Further enhancing these skills, I earned multiple project management certifications, bringing my capabilities full circle. Combined with the leadership experience I gained in the military, this foundation created the perfect environment for me to transition into business ownership—an endeavor I take great pride in.

Where did you and your wife meet?
I was her paperboy in the early ’90s when we were just kids. She had a crush on me even then. But with a four-year age gap between us, and her attending the private school in town while I went to the public school, I didn’t even know she existed. In 2006, my brother was getting married, and during a night out at the hometown bar, I noticed Courtney. That’s when we reintroduced ourselves to one another. We went on a couple of dates before I had to return to Fort Benning, GA, where I was stationed at the time. This led to a long-distance relationship – luckily, her job at the time offered the flexibility for her to take time off to visit. Eventually, Courtney moved to Fort Benning, and not long after, we tied the knot in true military fashion at the local courthouse.

Tell us about your children and their extra-curricular activities.
We are incredibly blessed with two bright and talented boys, each with their own uniquely wonderful personality. Our older son, Dalton, tends to be a bit shy around new people. He has a passion for Legos, Transformers, and Minecraft video games. In contrast, our younger son, Corbin, is outgoing and loves talking to just about anyone. He has a particular love for reading and Super Mario Brothers video games. They are both actively involved in the local Cub Scout Pack 7223.

You and your family are active in Scouting. How did that come about?
When we moved here, Dalton made a friend at school who helped out at the Cub Scout recruiting booth. Courtney spoke with the friend’s parents to learn about the wonderful experiences their family was having with scouting. Dalton asked if he could join, and a year later after seeing the fun his brother was having, Corbin asked if he could join too. Scouting became a family adventure. Courtney and I are proud to be part of the leadership committee, while the boys thrive in their respective Dens. It’s been incredibly rewarding for all of us!

How did your Schooley Mitchell journey begin?
In September 2022, my retirement date came and went. Uncertain about what I truly wanted to do with this new chapter in life after spending 20 years in a vastly different career field, like many newly retired service members, I took a government contracting job that didn’t align with my expectations or aspirations. After some deep conversations with trusted individuals, I realized a change was necessary, and I eventually submitted my resignation. The moment I did, a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. But now what?

The answer came unexpectedly: I would become a stay-at-home dad and supportive husband. During this period, my wife was completing her second bachelor’s degree. It was my turn to support her dreams, and she graduated in November 2023 from Southern New Hampshire University with a stellar 4.0 GPA in Geosciences, with a concentration in Data Analytics.

By December, I felt I had taken a meaningful sabbatical and knew it was time to move forward. I craved autonomy and the ability to control my day. I considered becoming an entrepreneur or a business owner, because I have always had a passion for saving money and connecting with people. I participated in a webinar with Vetrepreneur.com, a non-profit organization that helps veterans transition into franchise ownership. I graduated from their program and ultimately purchased a franchise through Schooley Mitchell.

How did your Army career prepare you for Schooley Mitchell?
Before joining, I struggled with self-confidence and often avoided engaging with others. However, serving in leadership roles allowed me to confront these insecurities, significantly enhancing my communication skills and ability to build meaningful connections.

Another major influence has been my focus on planning and analytical questioning. Military service ingrained in me the importance of thorough preparation and considering all angles, ensuring I approach tasks with confidence and readiness. I believe nothing is worse than failing due to laziness or lack of preparation — principles I carry into every aspect of my life.

How does Schooley Mitchell help businesses?
Our mission is simple: to help businesses reduce unnecessary costs and increase profitability. Think of us as your “profit keepers” and vendor “watchdogs.” By analyzing your expenses across numerous categories, we determine if you’re overspending and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Once we present our findings, if you decide to move forward, we take care of the rest. We’ll handle implementation and remain your single point of contact for ongoing monitoring, analysis, and support. Our independent and objective recommendations are always made with one goal in mind: your best interests.

My vision for the business is to become a trusted resource for all businesses in Huntsville, AL, and the surrounding areas. Simply put, every business can benefit from our cost-reduction services. Why? Because we bring the time, technology, and expertise needed to thoroughly analyze and optimize your expenses. By partnering with us, you gain peace of mind and the freedom to focus on what truly matters—your core business strategy.

If your family could invite 3 people to dinner, who would they be?
For this one, we decided to break it down, letting the boys each choose someone while Courtney and I also made our picks. The boys selected Mark Rober, who happens to be their favorite person on YouTube. A former NASA engineer, Rober has a remarkable ability to inspire a love of science in children through his fun and engaging activities. Beyond his engineering expertise and creativity, he comes across as a genuinely decent person who is committed to spreading positivity and doing good in the world.

I chose Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., as my guest of choice. Through my own journey of healing from PTSD, I have gained a deeper understanding of the brain and its incredible capacity for adaptation and recovery. This experience has sparked my fascination with how our emotions, both past and present, shape our lives. Dr. Huberman, a neuroscientist and tenured professor in the Department of Neurobiology at Stanford School of Medicine, has made remarkable contributions to the study of brain development, function, and neural plasticity. Additionally, he hosts the acclaimed Huberman Lab podcast, often ranked #1 in Science, Education, and Health & Fitness. His ability to bridge cutting-edge neuroscience with practical applications makes him an inspiring figure, and I would value the opportunity to learn from him.

Courtney ultimately decided she would invite Guy Fieri to join her. Best known as a chef and television host, Fieri has built a career around his love for bold, flavorful food. As someone who loves to cook, Courtney admires his passion and would relish the opportunity to gain tips from a professional who shares her enthusiasm for similar cuisines. Beyond his culinary expertise, Fieri has also raised two sons, which could provide Courtney with valuable parenting insights.

What would you like the readers of South Huntsville Neighbors to know about the Fish family?
We are an easygoing family that values quality time together. Our focus is on raising two well-rounded boys who treat others with kindness and respect. In a world dominated by digital distractions, we are strong proponents of analog learning and genuine engagement.

As a family, we prioritize open communication, thoughtful discussions, and avoiding emotionally charged decisions. Courtney and I believe that these principles are key to building a successful and fulfilling life together.