Supply Chain Now Radio

Today we delve into pressing cybersecurity issues, recent developments in warehouse demand, and the need for more operational efficiency in the cold chain industry.. Welcome to The Buzz powered by AutoScheduler!Hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy welcome special guest Ilya Preston, Co-Founder & CEO of PAXAFE, to discuss:The ongoing tariff challenges and how companies like Lovesac are navigating these through strategic supplier negotiations, production shifts, price adjustments, and cost-cutting measuresThe warehouse industry, where a resurgence in demand is noted, reflecting broader economic trendsThe pressing issues surrounding cybersecurity within the supply chain, particularly during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, highlighting the alarming trend of declining budgets despite increasing cyber threatsThe burgeoning cold chain industry and the necessity for orchestration in ensuring operational efficiencyJoin us as we unpack these pivotal topics and their implications for the future of global supply cha

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Paul Brooks, founder of Go Further Consulting, and Dave Food, Chief Strategy Officer at Prophetic Technology, to explore the evolving demands of supply chain leadership in today’s global economy. They discuss how the role has become more visible since the COVID-19 pandemic, why leadership fundamentals like judgment, communication, and resilience remain constant, and how AI and technology are reshaping the way leaders think and operate.Paul shares insights from interviewing 50 global executives on servant leadership and values-based decision making. At the same time, Dave emphasizes the importance of T-shaped leaders who balance specialist expertise with a broad organizational perspective. Together, they highlight why empowering teams to experiment safely, aligning metrics across functions, and fostering collaboration with suppliers and customers are critical for long-term success. This conversation offers a clear roadmap for developing future-ready

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and special guest host Claudia Freed, President & CEO of EALGreen, welcome Chuck Johnston, Chief Strategy Officer at ReturnPro, for a deep dive into the “dark side” of supply chain: reverse logistics and returns management. They unpack why returns are a nearly trillion-dollar challenge in the U.S., how BORIS (buy online, return in store) strains store operations, and why many retailers still under-invest: leaders often can’t see the full cost across functions or make the ROI case for what’s treated as a cost center.Chuck shares how the space has evolved from yellow notepads to data-driven decisioning, highlighting intelligent algorithms that route items at the customer’s first return click, fraud mitigation with imaging and behavior signals, and how third-party innovation is compressing software build times. Claudia adds a nonprofit and circularity lens: donation channels, extended tax credits, and AI pilots (computer vision + MCP agents) that identify item

Today we're diving into the multifaceted world of supply chain dynamics, emphasizing the critical importance of effective leadership amidst the ever-evolving challenges within the industry. Welcome to The Buzz powered by AutoScheduler!Hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome special guest Guy Courtin, Vice President of Industry and Global Alliances at Tecsys, to discuss:The necessity for clarity in communication, particularly during adverse situationsThe dual need for leaders to provide both positive reinforcement and constructive feedback to their teamsThe upcoming holiday spending season, forecasting a noticeable shift in consumer behavior towards seeking deals, a trend that is likely influenced by broader economic factors and ongoing supply chain disruptionsAutomating supply chain processes and the implications of recent tariffs on global tradeJoin us for this episode that will have you rethinking your strategies and embracing adaptability in an increasingly complex landscape.Additional Links & Resou

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, and part of the Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa series, Scott Luton is joined by co-host Clare Fincham of SAPICS, with guests Nicole Petersen from the South African Graduate Employers Association, and Yaseen Ahmid, CEO of Luna, to explore the biggest takeaways from the SAPICS Annual Conference 2025 in Cape Town. Together, they discuss the rising demand for supply chain graduates, the growing emphasis on sustainability skills, and the widening gap between what universities teach and what employers need.Nicole shares how initiatives like Quantify Your Future are creating clear pathways for students, while Yaseen highlights the importance of tailoring resumes, building early employer relationships, and showcasing entrepreneurial soft skills. Clare emphasizes the role of community and collaboration in extending conference conversations into universities and businesses. This discussion offers a roadmap for addressing supply chain talent shortages and preparing Africa’s wo

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton sits down with two leaders shaping the future of reverse logistics from the floor to the classroom: Troy Campbell, Director of Reverse Logistics Centers at The Home Depot, and Dr. Glenn Richey, Jr., Harbert Eminent Scholar in Supply Chain Management at Auburn University.Troy opens the doors to Home Depot’s four Reverse Logistics Centers: Phoenix, Pittston (PA), McDonough (GA), and Indianapolis, showing why a people-first culture remains the operating system for returns at scale. He gets real about “automation when the box isn’t a box,” how rethinking inbound flows through 3PLs reduces touches and transportation cost, and why simple vendor conversations (like consolidating daily pallets into a single weekly load) can unlock outsized impact. His north star: make associates’ days easier, and the entire reverse network improves.Glenn zooms out to the macro shifts: the move from minimizing returns to maximizing returns within a circular economy, generative AI for sc

Today we're discussing the top news in workforce development in manufacturing, reverse logistics, and circular economy. Welcome to The Buzz powered by AutoScheduler!Hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter, along with Founder & Chief Circularity Officer with All Things Circular, guest Rich Bulger, explore:The implications of large-scale investment announcements in U.S. manufacturing, such as Intel's $28 billion project in OhioThe potential delays and challenges posed by the U.S. government shutdownThe importance of workforce development in manufacturing, emphasizing the need for skilled trades and educationInsights on the reverse logistics and circular economy, advocating for more returns in certain contexts to drive profitability and sustainabilityOrchestration in supply chains, showcasing platforms that streamline processes and enhance efficiency. Join us for this episode with expert perspectives and actionable insights, offering valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains.Addition

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton sits down with two industry leaders shaping the future of reverse logistics and circular supply chains. Joining the conversation are Sean Cleland, Vice President of Mobility and Asset Recovery at B-Stock, and Rich Bulger, Founder and Chief Circularity Officer at All Things Circular.Sean shares how B-Stock has pioneered the secondary market for retailers and brands, using data and AI to transform returns from a tactical afterthought into a strategic advantage. He explores how mobile technology sets the pace for the broader supply chain, why retailers like Best Buy are rethinking refurbished and resale programs, and how companies are shifting toward proactive planning and insourcing to better manage reverse flows.Rich reflects on his journey from building billion-dollar trade-in programs at Verizon and Cisco to launching All Things Circular, a platform dedicated to education, collaboration, and innovation in reverse logistics. He highlights the evolution of

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Angie Jula, Director of Product Management, and Matt Brolsma, Sr. Manager of Product Marketing at SPS Commerce, to discuss how AI and automation are transforming retail supply chains. Angie draws on more than a decade in product leadership, while Matt brings cross-functional expertise from both supplier and buyer perspectives. Together, they share how retailers can transform clean, connected data into actionable insights that enhance demand forecasting, supplier collaboration, and pricing strategy, all while reducing manual work that slows down their teams.From tackling organizational silos with cross-functional dashboards to equipping executives with real-time visibility, Angie and Matt emphasize why AI is no longer optional; it’s a strategic imperative. They highlight case studies on supplier scorecarding, automation-driven fill rates, and proactive exception management, showing how early adopters are gaining competitive advantages in resilience, agi

Today we're diving into the multifaceted dynamics of the global supply chain landscape, emphasizing the pivotal role of leadership and workforce management within this intricate system. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost!Hosts Scott Luton and Koray Kose welcome special guest Katie Date with Manifest to discuss:The implications of recent workforce surveys, revealing that a significant proportion of employees express discontent with their managerial relationshipsThe critical understanding that effective leadership in supply chain management can either catalyze or hinder operational efficiencyThe influence of artificial intelligence in optimizing supply chain processes, positing it as a transformative force that can enhance decision-making and operational agilityThe importance of adaptability and proactive engagement with emerging technologies, advocating for a shift from reactive to proactive supply chain strategies to ensure resilience and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving marketplaceJoin us today as

Join Supply Chain Now host Scott Luton for a timely conversation with Max Garland, Senior Reporter at Supply Chain Dive. In this episode, they break down the biggest stories shaping logistics and e-commerce right now—from Target’s next-day delivery expansion and FedEx’s 2026 rate hikes to the rise of regional carriers like OnTrac and Veho. They’ll also unpack how the end of the de minimis exemption is reshaping international e-commerce and what it means for businesses adapting to new rules.Packed with insights on technology, customer experience, and the future of supply chain operations, this discussion is a can't miss for anyone navigating today’s rapidly evolving logistics landscape.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Max on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxgarland/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: ht

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, for a conversation on the future of supply chains. Mike explains why reverse logistics and returns management are now critical, how AI-powered demand sensing improves agility, and why organizations must treat reverse supply chains with the same discipline as forward ones. He also shares predictions on AI certification in hiring and the risk of losing soft skills as technology takes on a bigger role.Using football as a lens, Mike highlights resilience from the Buffalo Bills, core focus from the Ravens, and orchestration from the Patriots—lessons supply chain leaders can apply directly. He also previews Gartner’s Planning Summits, where strategy meets hands-on execution. From tackling fraud in returns to preparing talent for an AI-driven future, this episode offers clear takeaways for balancing technology, people, and process.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:45) Coffee culture, Starbucks tastin

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we dig into the imperative nature of supply chain transformation in the current global landscape, characterized by incessant change and complexity. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost!Today, hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome special guests Pierre Abou Hamad, Managing Partner USA with Citwell, Inc., and Koray Kose, Founder and Chief Analyst with Kose Advisory. The conversation includes: The multifaceted challenges faced by supply chain leaders, particularly in the context of heightened geopolitical tensions and evolving market demandsCritical insights from industry leaders, who stress the necessity of embracing innovation and adaptability as key strategies for navigating these turbulent timesThe importance of effective communication and the cultivation of a resilient organizational culture that fosters continuous improvement. Tariff impact on coffee pricesJoin us as we embark on this exploration, and reflect on the profound implications of these discussions fo

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Karin Bursa welcomes a powerhouse panel of women supply chain leaders who are rewriting the rules in today’s “never normal” world. Joining the discussion are Stephanie Beal, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Hasbro; Tamera Fenske, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Kimberly-Clark; Eliza Simeonova, Vice President of Global Supply for Mars Pet Nutrition; Whitney Shlesinger, Vice President of Global Planning and Logistics at McCormick; and Sylvia Wilks, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Lamb Weston.Together, they share defining moments that shaped their careers, from early plant leadership to global transformation initiatives. They explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping supply chain performance: driving operational discipline, improving demand planning, enhancing knowledge management, and freeing teams to focus on creative, strategic work. The panel also reflects on the importance of clean data, talent development, and building integrated value chains that deliver measurabl

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Lushentha Naidoo, Managing Director of the European Supplier Diversity Program (ESDP), for a candid conversation on purpose-driven leadership and the business value of inclusive procurement. Drawing on a 14-year transformation career at Unilever and a personal journey from apartheid-era South Africa to global operations leadership, Lushentha shares how caring as a leadership “superpower” can fuel innovation, save jobs, and build psychologically safe teams. She explains how supplier diversity isn’t charity. It’s a competitive advantage that increases agility, strengthens resilience, and unlocks fresh thinking when disruption hits.She also breaks down how ESDP bridges corporates and diverse suppliers through a fast-growing database, networking events, and the Inclusive Procurement Academy, teaching pitching, storytelling, and “corporate readiness.” From real success stories (mentorship that kept a founder in the fight) to pragmatic guidance for senior le

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we discuss the critical role of truck drivers in the supply chain, representing nearly 73% of freight delivery in the United States, as we celebrate Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost!!Today, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome special guest Kevin Lawton, Founder & Host of The New Warehouse podcast. Listen in as Scott and 'Team Kevin" explore:The current state of the freight economy, highlighting the challenges faced by industry professionals amid a prolonged slump in freight pricingThe significant concerns raised by the largest rail industry labor union regarding the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, which may significantly impact safety practices and workforce environmentsTruck Driver Appreciation Week, acknowledging the essential role that truck drivers play in the supply chain and the pressures they endure, as evidenced by survey data revealing their dissatisfactionThe ramifications of th

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor sit down with Lori Boyer, Director of Content, and John Wharff, Director of Sales and Solutions Engineering at EasyPost, to break down the latest shifts in carrier networks and what they mean for shippers preparing for peak season.Lori shares insights into how major carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS are adjusting routes, surcharges, and capacity as peak approaches, and why regional carriers and Amazon shipping are becoming critical players in today’s environment. John expands on the importance of diversifying carrier strategies, leveraging data for smarter decision-making, and ensuring businesses can keep promises to customers no matter how volatile the market gets.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:01) Meet Lori Boyer and John Wharff from EasyPost(05:47) Introduction to EasyPost and their offerings(08:56) Major carriers: UPS, FedEx, and USPS(25:30) Innovative shipping solutions(25:54) Old and new shipping strategies(26:48) Big brands

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor welcome Gaurav Malhotra, Partner and Supply Chain Technology Leader at EY, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming supply chains today and where it’s headed over the next five years. Gaurav shares how EY is helping organizations embrace emerging technologies to create competitive advantage, avoid “pilot purgatory,” and build more cognitive and resilient supply chains.They cover practical misconceptions holding companies back from adopting AI, the foundational elements required for successful implementation, and real-world examples of immediate impact in logistics, predictive maintenance, and warehouse operations. Gaurav also discusses how organizations can invest in workforce education, reskilling, and culture change to ensure that humans remain at the center of AI adoption. Looking ahead, he offers his perspective on how agentic AI will reshape supply chains into adaptive, orchestrated ecosystems while freeing people to focus on

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we present an incisive exploration of the current landscape within the global supply chain sector, focusing particularly on the essential role of leadership in navigating prevailing challenges. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost!Today, hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy welcome special guest Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, to discuss the Women in Supply Chain Awards and the upcoming Women in Supply Chain Forum. Listen as they cover:The rising demand for foreign trade zone accessThe state of the industry report by ColliersInsights from chief people officers on talent strategiesThe 2025 Women in Supply Chain Awards and the upcoming Women in Supply Chain Forum The importance of communication, strategic thinking, and inclusivity in navigating the complexities of the supply chain industryJoin us as we collectively seek to understand the implications of these developments on future supply chain operations.Addi

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton talks with Brett Johnson, IT Director at A&A Global, and Shannon Vaillancourt, President and Founder of RateLinx, about A&A Global’s journey to transform their shipping operations. Brett details how they addressed inefficiencies in their old TMS, implementing RateLinx’s flexible toolkit to streamline processes, reduce costs, and scale operations without adding staff.The conversation explores how A&A Global overcame challenges like manual data entry, slow carrier onboarding, and inaccurate rate quoting through powerful integrations like ScanForce, Cubiscan, and mobile printing. Brett and Shannon also highlight the role of Lean Six Sigma practices in driving continuous improvement and achieving significant cost savings, faster shipping, and enhanced efficiency.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:39) Meet the industry leaders(02:46) Challenges faced by A&A Global(05:56) Issues with previous TMS(08:30) The need for speed and efficiency(13:42