Supply Chain Now

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

Digital transformation, digital twins, and secure semiconductor supply chains remain pivotal topics in global supply chain discussions, as highlighted in this engaging episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now. Hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson explore these ongoing challenges and opportunities in global supply chain, and also welcome special guests Dr. Sarah Sengupta and Chris White to the show.Listen in as the panel discusses:Digital transformation in supply chain managementThe need for organizations to embrace change and innovation with digital twins How education is evolving to prepare the next generation of supply chain leadersThe significance of the semiconductor supply chain and the geopolitical implications surrounding it, underscoring the necessity for the U.S. to increase its market share in this critical sectorJoin us for this episode as the importance of service, leadership, and continuous learning in driving successful digital transformation is reinforced, making it clear that proactive engagement is essential for future success in supply chain management. Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/42iiB0XManifest: https://partner.manife.st/SupplyChainNow Digital Transformation: Beyond the Buzzword in Supply Chain Management: https://bit.ly/3E28nb7Will digital twins ever become standard in supply chains?: https://bit.ly/4g4PdieThe United States Needs a Secure, Reliable Semiconductor Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/3WqyJdaConnect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-chris-white/Connect with Sarah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sengupta-ph-d-97365724/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- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson, and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-innovations-supply-chain-education-1382

24 Jan 52min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Karin Bursa sit down with Mike Griswold from Gartner to dig into some of the biggest challenges and opportunities in the supply chain today.They discuss what we learned from the 2024 holiday shopping season, the growing problem of returns, and how AI is changing the game when it comes to managing risk. Karin and Mike also share their thoughts on why respect matters more than ever in keeping teams engaged and what supply chain leaders can do to prepare their people for the future.It’s a conversation packed with practical advice on building stronger, smarter supply chains and staying ahead in a world that’s always changing.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(06:47) Reflecting on the 2024 holiday shopping season(12:15) Addressing the challenges of returns and reverse logistics(18:30) The growing role of AI in supply chain risk management(24:05) Key trends shaping supply chains in 2024(31:20) Predictions for 2025: Risk management and diversification(37:42) The evolving role of talent in supply chains(44:18) Why respect matters in workforce retention(50:05) Final takeaways on building resilient supply chainsAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/enConnect with Karin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinbursa/ 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/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicates show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/trends-shaping-supply-chain-strategies-2025-1381

22 Jan 54min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes back Ray Attiyah, a tireless entrepreneur and leadership expert, to discuss three proven tips for optimizing leadership performance in 2025. The conversation highlights the importance of creativity in strategic planning, the necessity of defining risk tolerance, and the critical role of visioning and storytelling in leadership. Ray emphasizes the unique challenges and opportunities of 2025, including market deceleration, the rise of AI, talent management, and sustainability. He also shares insights from his professional journey and offers predictions for increased M&A activity in the coming years. This episode is a must-listen for leaders looking to navigate the evolving business landscape effectively.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Ray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayattiyah/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/3XH6OVkThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/3-tips-optimizing-leadership-effectiveness-2025-1380

20 Jan 58min

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we delve into the evolving landscape of supply chain resilience and innovation.In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson welcome special guest David Heacock, Founder and CEO of FilterBuy. Listen in as they discuss:Key findings from the recent U.S. Quadrennial Supply Chain Review, highlighting the critical need for diversification and the challenges of relying on single-source suppliersDavid's entrepreneurial journey from finance to air filtration and the lessons learned throughout the pandemicThe importance of adaptability in the workforce and the potential for new opportunities in traditional industriesAnd much more!Join the conversation as we explore the intersection of technology and supply chain management, embrace change, and innovate for future success.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidfilterbuy/Learn more about FilterBuy: www.filterbuy.comWith That Said: https://bit.ly/3PwSagwManifest 2025: https://bit.ly/4iDIYULIndustry leaders react to ILA-USMX port deal: https://bit.ly/3Wj2wExInside the US Government's Landmark Supply Chain Review: https://bit.ly/3DTvZP1The Challenge for Made-in-America Bikes? Made-in-China Parts: https://bit.ly/4gQhR7JLearn 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 is hosted by Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-air-quality-supply-chain-innovation-1379

17 Jan 50min

Prepare for an engaging deep dive into the future of global supply chain in today's episode of Supply Chain Now! Listen in as hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome back returning guest Hans Moerman, CFO of Digital Technology at DP World. In this episode, Hans shares his incredible journey—from scaling a delivery startup in Southeast Asia to driving digital transformation at one of the world’s largest logistics providers.Discover how DP World is revolutionizing trade, the critical role of people and technology in supply chain innovation, and how events like the Global Freight Summit are shaping the industry. Plus, Hans unpacks the biggest challenges in logistics today—from managing workforce transformations to leveraging AI for smarter, faster decisions.With actionable insights, a glimpse into groundbreaking advancements, and even a few travel stories and breakfast favorites from around the world, this conversation is packed with value. Don’t miss your chance to gain insider knowledge and inspiration to take your supply chain strategies to the next level!Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Hans: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-moerman-7489861/Learn more about DP World: www.dpworld.comLearn 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- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/breaking-barriers-future-supply-chain-dp-world-1378

15 Jan 48min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa are joined by Gustav Khambatta, Senior Vice President of Freight Payment Sales at U.S. Bank, to unpack key takeaways from 2024 and explore what lies ahead for global supply chains in 2025. The conversation delves into the evolution of ERP technology, the critical role of cybersecurity, and the growing importance of quality data in driving decision-making. Gustav highlights the value of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index as a benchmarking tool, while the panel shares insights on leveraging AI, industry collaboration, and preparing for the unexpected. Tune in for actionable insights and bold predictions that will help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of global supply chain management.Additional Links & Resources:Check out the Latest U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: https://bit.ly/scn-us-bankConnect with Gustav: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustav-khambatta-384852/Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/aboutLearn 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- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/adapting-change-2024-lessons-supply-chain-insights-2025-predictions-us-bank-1377

13 Jan 39min

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we take a deep dive into the critical topic of returns management during the peak returns season, aptly dubbed "Returnuary."As retailers brace for an anticipated 17% return rate of all sales in 2024, equating to a staggering $890 billion in returns, the conversation highlights the operational, logistical, and financial challenges that come with managing these returns. In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas explore:The implications of stricter return policies, the rising trend of fraudulent returns, and the environmental impact of returns-related wasteThe current state of the manufacturing industry, which shows signs of growth despite concerns over tariffs and trade policies.Tech trends that could shape 2025Upcoming supply chain events in the new yearAnd much more!Join the conversation as we welcome the new year with a clean slate, even in the world of global supply chain. Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/3PpmucWThe State of Freight 2025: https://bit.ly/4a2C4ER‘Returnuary’ — after the peak shopping season comes the busiest return month of the year: https://bit.ly/4j0Fax7Narvar Interview: https://bit.ly/4gZt4TdReverse Logistics Association: https://bit.ly/3BSTJSRDemand ticks up as manufacturers pin hopes on Trump administration: PMI: https://bit.ly/40mgIz7Tech Trends That Could Shape 2025: https://bit.ly/4iXrwepManifest: https://bit.ly/4iDIYULGartner Supply Chain Symposium: https://bit.ly/403K83tSAPICS: https://bit.ly/40oGfYxSupply Chain Now en Espanol: https://bit.ly/3g9LtQcLearn 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- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-tackling-returns-sustainability-1376

10 Jan 48min