Supply Chain Now

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton shares his thoughts on leadership, empathy, and life experiences in a podcast recorded in Las Vegas before the Manifest 2025 conference. He emphasizes the importance of empathetic leadership, recounts a memorable trip to Dallas with his son, and reflects on his personal journey, including a challenging high school experience and his time in the United States Air Force. Scott also pays tribute to his late friend Greg Chapman, who pursued his passion for music while bravely battling cancer. Join us for this episode, as Scott encourages listeners to chase their dreams and live life to the fullest, highlighting the fleeting nature of time and the importance of gratitude and resilience.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/Truckin' On with Ward Richmond: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truckin-on-w-ward-richmond/id1663540456Learn 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: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- The Rise of the Decision Makers: https://bit.ly/42z5GYUWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDWEBINAR- Embracing Agility for better TMS ROI: https://bit.ly/40CrwIaThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/lessons-leadership-life-legacy-1390

12 Feb 17min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, sponsored by Microsoft, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kevin L. Jackson sit down with aerospace leaders Allison Giddens, President of Operations at Win-Tech Inc., and Tyler Kowalczik, Vice President and Co-owner of Component Products Corporation. Together, they explore how digital transformation is reshaping aerospace manufacturing—helping businesses scale, improve efficiency, and strengthen supply chain resilience.Allison and Tyler share firsthand insights on the challenges of modern aerospace production, from navigating supply chain complexities to leveraging ERP systems and AI-driven decision-making. They also discuss the evolving role of cybersecurity and compliance, including CMMC, and how manufacturers can stay ahead of shifting regulations. For supply chain professionals and industry leaders, this conversation offers key insights into the tools, strategies, and innovations driving the next era of aerospace success.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:31) How digital transformation shapes aerospace manufacturing(08:01) Win-Tech Inc.’s role in aerospace and defense(11:00) CPC’s expansion into defense, space, and tech(14:28) Key challenges in aerospace supply chains, compliance(19:47) How manufacturers use digital tools to win bids(23:15) Leveraging ERP and AI to improve operations(28:59) Strengthening supply chain resilience, reliability(34:30) The impact of CMMC on cybersecurity, contracts(39:42) Navigating supplier trust and regulations(46:05) Practical advice for digital transformation(52:04) How CMMC is evolving for contractors(57:34) Insights on innovation, leadership, and future trendsAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Allison Giddens: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisongiddens/Connect with Tyler Kowalczik: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerkowalczik/ Learn more about Win-Tech, Inc.: https://win-tech.net/ Learn more about Component Products Corp: https://cpc-web.com/ Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjackson/Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson, and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/powering-aerospace-manufacturing-forward-digital-innovation-1389

10 Feb 1h 2min

As the recent imposition of substantial tariffs by the White House is poised to exert significant influence on global supply chains, hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa navigate through these developments in this week's episode of The Buzz!Listen in as Scott and Karin cover the top headlines and also welcome Mark Irvin, Executive Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer of Best Buy to the show. They discuss: The intricacies of how automotive manufacturers are adapting to new efficiencies amidst logistics challengesBest Buy's strides towards sustainability, highlighting Best Buy's commitment to energy-efficient products and the reduction of wasteThe critical interplay between supply chain management and environmental responsibilityJoin us for an episode that not only offers insights into current market dynamics, but also emphasizes the importance of fostering resilient and sustainable practices within the supply chain sector.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markirvinbestbuy/Supply Chain Headaches Ahead: https://bit.ly/3CHl9viWhite House Issues Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China: https://bit.ly/4jJgWbeAutomakers cutting costs: https://bit.ly/42AyL68Learn 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: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- The Rise of the Decision Makers: https://bit.ly/42z5GYUWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDWEBINAR- Embracing Agility for better TMS ROI: https://bit.ly/40CrwIaThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-sustainability-modern-supply-chains-1388

7 Feb 46min

In this episode, host Scott W. Luton dives into the evolving state of the freight industry with an expert panel featuring Lee Klaskow, Senior Analyst for Transportation & Logistics at Bloomberg Intelligence and host of Talking Transports, and Brian Oxley, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Vector Global Logistics. Together, they discuss the biggest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping global freight in 2025.This insightful conversation covers the rise of the zero-click environment in logistics, the transformative impact of automation at ports, and the shifting dynamics in air, ocean, rail, and truckload freight. From freight theft and geopolitical disruptions to the potential of nimbleness as the key to success, the panel shares data-driven perspectives and actionable takeaways to help supply chain leaders navigate the road ahead.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(06:24) Lee’s insights on Bloomberg Intelligence and the freight market(09:30) Freight theft and geopolitical disruptions in 2024(11:09) Key takeaways from the state of freight in 2024(15:38) The impact of automation on port operations and labor dynamics(19:03) Air freight trends: E-commerce drivers and China’s role(22:24) Ocean freight challenges and the Red Sea’s impact on capacity(27:06) Railroads and the potential of north-south connectivity(29:33) Freight volumes and pricing trends across modes(32:34) Truckload and LTL trends: Recovery signs and spot market dynamics(36:47) Nimbleness as the key to supply chain success in 2025Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Lee Klaskow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeklaskow/Connect with Brian Oxley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-oxley-98319a/Learn more about Bloomberg Intelligence: https://www.bloomberg.com/professional/products/bloomberg-terminal/research/bloomberg-intelligence/#overviewLearn more about Vector Global Logistics: https://vectorgl.com/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: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- The Rise of the Decision Makers: https://bit.ly/42z5GYUWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDWEBINAR- Embracing Agility for better TMS ROI: https://bit.ly/40CrwIaThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: <a href="https://supplychainnow.com/state-freight-2025-1387" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

5 Feb 44min

In today's special episode of Supply Chain Now, we introduce a new series, "Breaking News Now," to bring live, timely, and relevant stories to its audience. In the inaugural episode, hosts Scott Luton and Kristi Porter discuss the devastating impact of the California wildfires with Janice Steverding, Chief Impact and Operations Officer at Gifts for Good. The conversation highlights the resilience and community spirit of Angelenos, the challenges faced by first responders, and the importance of supporting those affected. Janice shares her personal experience of evacuation and the overwhelming support from neighbors and colleagues. Listen in for actionable ways to help, including donating to vetted organizations and using the Watch Duty app for real-time updates, and the need for collective action and long-term support for recovery efforts.Additional Links & Resources:'Connect with Jenise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenisesteverding/Learn more about Gifts for Good: www.giftsforgood.comLearn more about the Watch Duty app: https://app.watchduty.org/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: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- The Rise of the Decision Makers: https://bit.ly/42z5GYUWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDWEBINAR- Embracing Agility for better TMS ROI: https://bit.ly/40CrwIaThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kristi Porter produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/breaking-news-now-la-fires-update-1386

3 Feb 35min

Hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter discuss key topics and latest trends shaping the global supply landscape in this week's episode of The Buzz!Join us as they welcome Pam Simon, EVP of Programming for Manifest, and listen as they discuss:The ambitious $1.4 billion nearshoring incentive plan announced by Mexico, aimed at bolstering local manufacturing and creating 1.5 million skilled jobsThe increasing importance of predictability in supply chain management as companies adapt to evolving market conditions and strive for operational resilienceThe upcoming Manifest 2025 conference, and the significance of networking and collaborationTune in for an informative discussion that covers everything from AI in fashion supply chains to the growing M&A activity in the logistics sector, and so much more. Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/40PkukRLuma: https://bit.ly/40MM1TVWhat top fashion executives were thinking about at NRF: https://bit.ly/40BC0rpSupply Chain Predictions And Outlook For 2025: https://bit.ly/3E5RFrdSmall Companies, Big Impacts: Three Supply Chain Startups to Know: https://bit.ly/3PSGi8QMexico creates nearshoring incentives in push for regional integration: https://bit.ly/3PPhQFpManifest 2025: https://partner.manife.st/SupplyChainNow Connect with Pam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgranoff4/SCNE LinkedIn Post: https://bit.ly/42wEPwyLearn 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: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- The Rise of the Decision Makers: https://bit.ly/42z5GYUWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDWEBINAR- Embracing Agility for better TMS ROI: https://bit.ly/40CrwIaThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-manifest-2025-1385

31 Jan 45min

In today's new episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas Herrera welcome Dr. Yossi Sheffi, Director of the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, to the show. Listen in to a discussion covering a range of topics including the evolving skillsets required for supply chain professionals, the impact of AI on the industry, and the importance of understanding supply chain dynamics for all managers. Dr. Sheffi emphasized the need for risk-taking in business, the practical challenges of sustainability, and the critical role of supply chain knowledge in maintaining competitiveness. The conversation also touched on the future of tariffs and trade policies under the current administration, highlighting the complexities and potential impacts on global supply chains. Join us for this must-listen episode, suited for anyone looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of supply chain management.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Dr. Sheffi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yossi-sheffi-b38b731/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: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- The Rise of the Decision Makers: https://bit.ly/42z5GYUWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDWEBINAR- Embracing Agility for better TMS ROI: https://bit.ly/40CrwIaThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas Herrera, and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/candid-supply-chain-conversation-1384

29 Jan 55min

Discover how Georgia Tech is shaping the future of supply chain management in this new episode of Supply Chain Now! Host Scott W. Luton sits down with Chris Gaffney, Managing Director of Georgia Tech's Supply Chain and Logistics Institute, Charles Easley Jr., Director of the LEAP Program, and student leaders Sam Deckbar and Brady Clements, to discuss groundbreaking innovations and student-driven initiatives redefining the industry.Be inspired by their insights into sustainable sourcing, AI-powered warehousing, and the transformative role of data in supply chains. Plus, learn how programs like SCLO and LEAP are empowering students and professionals to thrive in this fast-changing field.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(08:22) Tokyo: An Eye-Opening Experience(12:48) Logistics of major sporting events(16:03) Career in logistics and supply chain(21:54) Supply chain accountability and responsibility(26:01) AI challenges in supply chain(30:52) COVID's Impact on grocery delivery(33:13) Online infrastructure & data integration(37:30) Supply chain success at Georgia Tech(45:15) Student impact on business growth(52:18) Georgia supply chain initiativesAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Chris Gaffney: http://linkedin.com/in/jchrisgaffneyConnect with Charles Easley Jr.: http://linkedin.com/in/chuck-easley-655224Connect with Sam Deckbar: http://linkedin.com/in/deckbarConnect with Brady Clements: http://linkedin.com/in/brady-clementsLearn more about Georgia Tech Supply Chain and Logistics Institute: https://www.scl.gatech.edu/Connect with Scott Luton: http://linkedin.com/in/scottwindonlutonLearn 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: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/supply-chain-leadership-factory-georgia-tech-1383

27 Jan 54min