Join us today as we discuss significant developments in the global supply chain landscape, particularly focusing on the evolving dynamics of delivery services and the implications of recent changes in the United States Postal Service (USPS). Welcome to The Buzz! This week, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome Max Garland, Senior Reporter With Supply Chain Dive to the show, who elucidates the intricacies of these developments and their impact on stakeholders across the supply chain spec...
Apr 25, 2025•49 min•Season 1Ep. 1421
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and special co-host Claire Fincham with SAPICS continue the “Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa” series with guest Marietjie Brown, Sustainability and Government Affairs Lead at CHEP for Africa, the Middle East, and Turkeiye. Marietjie shares how CHEP is leading the charge in regenerative supply chain initiatives—from ensuring zero waste to landfills to bringing clean running water to communities that have never had it. She also explains how CH...
Apr 23, 2025•52 min•Season 1Ep. 1420
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes back Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, for another edition of "Supply Chain Today and Tomorrow." They discussed key insights from the 2024 Gartner Supply Chain Top 25, spotlighting industry leaders like Schneider Electric, Johnson & Johnson, and PepsiCo. Mike talks about how these companies are leveraging their supply chains as competitive weapons, from investing in AI-driven smart factories to embracing regenerative a...
Apr 21, 2025•33 min•Season 1Ep. 1419
Join us today as we discuss the alarming prevalence of modern-day slavery, with an estimated 50 million individuals currently ensnared in various forms of exploitation worldwide. Throughout this episode, we delve into the implications of this crisis, emphasizing the responsibility of supply chain professionals to acknowledge and address these issues within their operations. Welcome to The Buzz! This week, hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas welcome Tim Nelson, CEO of Hope for Justice & Slave -...
Apr 18, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 1418
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter welcome Kary Jablonski, Vice President of Trucker Tools and Broker Growth, for an in-depth conversation on how freight brokers can combat the rising threat of freight fraud. Kary breaks down the most common types of fraud—double brokering, cargo theft, and identity spoofing—and explains how evolving tech tactics are making these threats harder to detect and more damaging than ever. She also shares how DAT’s acquisition of Truc...
Apr 16, 2025•50 min•Season 1Ep. 1417
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy welcome John Wharff, Senior Manager of Sales Engineering at EasyPost, to dive into the critical world of load planning and shipping optimization. John shares insights on how companies can drive cost savings and efficiency through better cartonization, palletization, and the implementation of advanced tools like MagicLogic. He explains the importance of data-driven decisions, human error reduction, and the evolving role o...
Apr 14, 2025•53 min•Season 1Ep. 1416
Join us today as we discuss the current state of the US manufacturing sector, the impact of recent tariff changes, and the importance of contract manufacturing.. Welcome to The Buzz! This week, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter welcome Keith Smith, President & CEO of Vonco Products to the show, to share his perspective on a variety of pressing topics, including: Insights into the healthcare manufacturing market Critical factors to consider when selecting a contract manufacturer Leadership adv...
Apr 11, 2025•42 min•Season 1Ep. 1415
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome Justin Sears, Head of Product Marketing for SaaS at Altium, to explore how manufacturers can stay resilient amid rising tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and evolving global risks. Justin shares how his career journey—from early SaaS solutions to leading cloud-based collaboration tools for electronics design—has shaped his approach to visibility, agility, and innovation. Together, they unpack the complex impact of n...
Apr 09, 2025•50 min•Season 1Ep. 1414
In this new episode of the NOW Generation series on Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and guest host Deborah Dull welcome Dr. Peter Haug, Sam Nocera, and Joshua Young from Western Washington University to explore how the NOW generation is shaping the future of supply chain management. They discuss a first-of-its-kind case competition hosted by the university, where student teams tackled the challenge of creating a circular supply chain model for industrial pumps—an ambitious problem grounded in real...
Apr 07, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Season 1Ep. 1413
Join us as we delve into the intricate dynamics of contemporary supply chain challenges, with a particular emphasis on the newly imposed automotive tariffs. Welcome to The Buzz! This week, hosts Scott Luton and Allison Giddens' discussion unfolds a variety of pressing topics, including: The ripple effects these tariffs are anticipated to have on the automotive industry and consumer prices The plight of British Steel, which faces potential shutdowns amidst ongoing struggles Significant movements ...
Apr 04, 2025•42 min•Season 1Ep. 1412
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter are joined by Jeffrey Shih, CEO of Taiwan-based Dimerco Express Group, who brings over 35 years of logistics industry experience. The conversation covers a range of topics including the impact of tariffs, trade compliance, and the shifting dynamics of global sourcing strategies. Jeffrey shares invaluable tips on managing global relationships, the importance of technology in logistics, and the significance of understanding loca...
Apr 02, 2025•44 min•Season 1Ep. 1411
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome back Wiley Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of Doss, to discuss the evolving world of demand planning and supply chain optimization. Wiley shares his journey, from designing toys in factories in Asia to leading hardware projects in Silicon Valley, and how his diverse experiences shaped his mission to increase the agility of the global value chain. They talk about the timeless truths in demand planning, such as the importance of a...
Mar 31, 2025•50 min•Season 1Ep. 1410
Join us as we discuss the paramount importance of nurturing relationships within the intricate tapestry of global supply chains, today on The Buzz! This week, hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr explore critical topics, alongside special guest Mark Gorlin, founder and CEO of Roadie. Listen in as they emphasize that successful leadership hinges upon the ability to cultivate rapport, and so much more. Listen in for: Insightful perspectives on the current dynamics of tariffs and their profound implicat...
Mar 28, 2025•43 min•Season 1Ep. 1409
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of The Manufacturing Institute, to discuss the critical issues shaping the future of the manufacturing workforce. Carolyn shares her journey, from growing up in a manufacturing family to her leadership role at The Manufacturing Institute, where she works to bridge the skills gap and build the workforce of tomorrow. They talk about the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, the imp...
Mar 26, 2025•43 min•Season 1Ep. 1408
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Bill Thorne, Senior Vice President of Communications, Research, and Marketing at the National Retail Federation (NRF) and host of the Retail Gets Real podcast. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of retail, from how customer insights drive innovation to the power of storytelling in shaping brand loyalty. This engaging conversation covers the impact of COVID-19 on retail operations, how agility and speed became key to surviv...
Mar 24, 2025•59 min•Season 1Ep. 1407
The imposition of tariffs by the United States on various nations has emerged as a focal point of discussion, significantly impacting global trade dynamics. In this episode of The Buzz, host Kevin L. Jackson delves into the ramifications of these tariffs, particularly on supply chain operations and international economic relations along with Warwick Powell, a distinguished expert in supply chain digitalization, who provides insightful analysis on the evolving landscape of trade and the necessity...
Mar 21, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 1406
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton explores the future of supply chain efficiency with Doug Wilson, Software Product Manager at PING Golf, and Shannon Vaillancourt, CEO of RateLinx. Together, they discuss how PING Golf is leveraging RateLinx’s TMS to streamline global shipping, improve real-time visibility, and enhance customer satisfaction. This engaging conversation covers the challenges of managing a globally distributed supply chain, the benefits of seamless ERP and TMS in...
Mar 19, 2025•53 min•Season 1Ep. 1405
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Dr. Stephanie Thomas and Dr. Rod Thomas, associate professors of Supply Chain Management at the Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of supply chain education, talent development, and the critical role of collaboration between academia and industry. Stephanie and Rod share insights on preparing the NOW generation of supply chain leaders, discussing the increasing awareness ...
Mar 17, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 1404
Join us as we tackle the imperative role of innovation within the supply chain sector, particularly as organizations endeavor to navigate the complexities of the current global business landscape, today on The Buzz! This week, hosts Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez explore critical topics, alongside special guest Jenny Froome, Director of Upavon, as they discuss: How the manufacturing industry in the United States is striving to rebound despite encountering significant obstacles The transformativ...
Mar 14, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 1403
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton highlights some of the most talked about topics in industry, including global economic trends, market news, the power of positive assumptions, and upcoming industry events. Join us as Scott discusses insights on the top global economies projected for 2025, the bustling activity at US ports, the impact of tariffs on supply chains, Goodyear's transformation through AI and 3D printing, and the importance of maintaining positive assumptions in pr...
Mar 12, 2025•14 min•Season 1Ep. 1402
Join Scott Luton and Mike Griswold for this new episode of Supply Chain Now, as they delve into the intersection of Hollywood and supply chain leadership. In this episode, they explore how movies like "Hoosiers," "World War Z," and "Jaws" offer unexpected yet valuable lessons for supply chain professionals. From the importance of teamwork and broadening supply chain definitions to fostering dissenting perspectives and aligning planning with execution, these films provide unique insights into ove...
Mar 10, 2025•28 min•Season 1Ep. 1401
Delve into the complexities of contemporary supply chain dynamics, with a particular emphasis on the increasing necessity for resilience amid various uncertainties, on this new episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now! This week, hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy explore critical topics, alongside special guest Richard Howells, VP for ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain with SAP, and host of the podcast, The Future of Supply Chain. Join us as they discuss: The impact of tariffs and global trade p...
Mar 07, 2025•45 min•Season 1Ep. 1400
In the latest installment of The NOW Generation series on Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes special co-host Kevin Lawton, founder of the New Warehouse podcast and Adjunct Professor at Rider University, as they dive into the world of supply chain management with students Aiden Clements and Chase Tomlinson. The discussion highlights the importance of sustainability, the hidden concentrations within supply chain roles, and the critical role of internships in shaping future supply chain le...
Mar 05, 2025•52 min•Season 1Ep. 1399
In this crossover episode of Logistics with Purpose®, hosts Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter interview Miren Oca, founder of B Corp certified Ocaquatics Swim School. Miren shares her journey from aspiring orthopedic surgeon to successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of leadership, purpose, and community impact. Ocaquatics, which teaches lifesaving swimming skills, is now 100% employee-owned through an Employee Ownership Trust, fostering a culture of ownership and long-term commitmen...
Mar 03, 2025•43 min•Season 1Ep. 1398
Embark on an insightful exploration of the top news and prevailing dynamics within the global supply chain in this new episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now! Hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker delve into the pivotal role of leadership and talent management within the supply chain secto and so much more, as they welcome special guests Kimberly Evans with Relations Research and David Sadler with RBW Logistics. Listen in as they discuss: The importance of supply chain storytelling as a powerful t...
Feb 28, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 1397
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton lauds the indispensable roles of maintenance professionals within both military and civilian contexts, highlighting their critical contributions to operational efficacy. He delves into the fascinating parallels between the discipline required for maintaining aircraft, particularly evidenced through accounts from McConnell Air Force Base, and the lessons that can be gleaned from the historic Apollo program. By exploring the narratives shared b...
Feb 26, 2025•12 min•Season 1Ep. 1396
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott W. Luton sits down with Melanie Salter, Director of Supply Chain Research at boom! Global Network, to discuss the evolving role of people in supply chain strategy. Together, they explore the intersection of data, strategic network design, and inclusive leadership—and why businesses that overlook workforce engagement risk falling behind. Melanie shares insights on industry trends, from AI adoption and decision-making challenges to the importance of ...
Feb 24, 2025•58 min•Season 1Ep. 1395
In the contemporary landscape of supply chain management, the integration of sustainability and digital transformation into modern manufacturing is emerging as a paramount necessity, heralding a new industrial paradigm that embraces resilience and intelligence. In this new episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson cover this and other top headlines and welcome Vesna Deljosevic, CEO and Owner of Reforma Group, to the show. They discuss: Insights from the Worl...
Feb 21, 2025•49 min•Season 1Ep. 1394
In this episode of Supply Chain Now , Scott Luton is joined by Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, for a dynamic discussion that spans tariffs, the evolution of retail, and the ever-changing world of supply chain. Scott and Mike discuss global supply chain challenges, including the impact of tariffs, risk management strategies, and the need for resilience in an unpredictable world. The duo also dives into Amazon’s continued dominance in e-commerce and how it has reshaped consumer e...
Feb 19, 2025•33 min•Season 1Ep. 1393
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kim Reuter are joined by freight industry experts Bobby Holland, Director of Freight Business Analytics at U.S. Bank, and Ken Adamo, Chief of Analytics at DAT Freight & Analytics. Together, they break down the latest U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index and what it reveals about the current state of the freight market. Bobby and Ken share data-driven insights on key industry trends, including sluggish manufacturing, shifts in freight d...
Feb 17, 2025•42 min•Season 1Ep. 1392
