The Buzz: The Renaissance of Global Supply Chain
In today's episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now, we focus on the critical exploration of workforce skill sets within the global supply chain, emphasizing the significance of adaptability and resilience in an ever-evolving business landscape. Welcome to The Buzz!Host Scott Luton welcomes special guest host, Beau Groover, Founder & President of The Effective Syndicate, and together they illuminate the current supply chain landscape, emphasizing the critical need for adaptability in workforce skill sets amidst rapid technological advancements. They discuss:Recent research findings that highlight the importance of skill set velocity, advocating for a paradigm shift where organizations prioritize continuous learning and adaptability over mere expertiseThe essential elements of change management, underscoring the imperative of clarity and communication as foundational components for effective leadershipThe intricate relationship between workforce resilience and organizational agility, underscoring that true resilience is contingent upon the well-being of the workforceAs we navigate through various trends affecting supply chain talent, discover insights into how businesses can enhance their workforce strategies to foster an environment of continuous learning and adaptability. This episode serves as a clarion call for leaders to embrace innovation while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the well-being of their teams.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Beau on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beaugroover/Learn more about The Effective Syndicate: www.tes.runCheck out Beau's upcoming training: https://community.gsdrules.com/c/live-training-sessions/managing-yourself-q3Top companies prioritize skill velocity over depth as AI technology evolves rapidly and changes workplaces along the way: https://bit.ly/4lzxyCfSupply chain resilience depends on worker well-being. Here’s how businesses can protect both: https://bit.ly/44KWIbwLearn 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- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKdWEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zNWEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging Manufacturer Unlock Millions in Capex: <a...
4 Juli 39min
The Agentic AI Supply Chain Framework
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.ai, for a conversation on how agentic AI is transforming the supply chain—from automating warehouse orchestration to enabling real-time decision-making across complex networks. Together, they explore what agentic AI really means, how it differs from traditional AI applications, and why now is the time for supply chain leaders to take action. Keith shares how AutoScheduler is already delivering measurable impact for companies like PepsiCo and Frito-Lay, improving service levels and productivity without replacing existing systems like WMS or TMS.Jake offers firsthand insight into how these intelligent systems reduce operational volatility and eliminate the bullwhip effect across siloed processes. The discussion highlights the importance of data readiness, change management, and thoughtful pilot execution. Join us for a conversation that addresses many common AI misconceptions and outlines a pragmatic path forward. Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(04:50) Keith Moore's background and Autoscheduler.ai(07:54) Understanding AgTech AI supply chains(13:10) The role of AI Agents in supply chains(26:10) Smart interrogation and data flows(26:24) Adopting AI in supply chain(28:12) Calm from the chaos(31:29) Real-world use cases(34:12) Change management in AI implementation(41:29) The future of AI in supply chain(47:15) Getting started with Autoscheduler.aiAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Keith Moore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithdmoore13/ Learn more about AutoScheduler.ai: https://autoscheduler.ai The Agentic AI Supply Chain White Paper: https://autoscheduler.ai/resource/the-agentic-supply-chain/ Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/Connect with Jake Barr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barr-3883501/ 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- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKdWEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zNWEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging...
2 Juli 51min
The Power of a Hybrid Approach: 5 Reasons to Combine Your In-house Team + 3PL
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton hosts a discussion with Ryan Hanson, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Staples, and Shannon Vaillancourt, CEO and President at RateLinx, with a conversation focused on optimizing supply chain performance through a hybrid logistics model that leverages both in-house teams and third-party logistics providers (3PLs). Ryan describes Staples' extensive supply chain network and how it ensures top-notch customer experiences by integrating rigorous automation and strategic partnerships. Shannon emphasizes the importance of real-time data and effective communication for building trust and streamlining operations between shippers and 3PLs. Together, they explore the benefits of this hybrid approach in driving cost savings, enhancing customer satisfaction, and fostering innovation in the fast-moving world of logistics.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:56) Staples supply chain footprint(04:14) Hybrid models and strategic control(08:25) Technology's role in supply chain(17:52) Cost optimization and value creation(20:23) Uncovering insights with shared analytics(21:15) Impact of shipping costs on growth strategy(22:37) Compliance and its impact on business(24:32) Finding trusted accelerants for growth(27:28) Fostering a culture of innovation(32:35) The importance of relationships in supply chain(36:42) Knowing the capabilities of your playersResources:Connect with Shannon Valliancourt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vaillancourt/ Connect with Ryan Hanson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-hanson-9869904/ Learn more about RateLinx: https://www.ratelinx.com/ Learn more about Staples: https://www.staples.com Learn more about the RateLinx Insight Conference: https://www.ratelinx.com/ratelinx-insight-conference/ Connect with Scott Luton: 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- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKdWEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zNWEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Real...
30 Juni 41min
The Buzz: Transformation in the Trucking Industry
On today's episode of The Buzz, we dive into the evolving landscape of the supply chain, particularly emphasizing the significance of technological innovation in trucking and the emerging role of younger generations within the industry. Welcome to The Buzz!This week, hosts Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson welcome special guest, founder of Truck N' Hustle, Rahmel Wattley, to the show. Listen in as they discuss:Port volumes and the impact of tariffsMetal supply chains, where China's control over rare earth processing poses strategic challengesThe expectations of young professionals in the trucking industry, emphasizing the importance of employee experience, flexible work environments, and mental health resourcesInsights regarding the intersection of entrepreneurship and transportation logistics, highlighting the transformative potential of reshaping traditional practicesAn innovative infrastructure project aims to streamline trade between the US and Mexico with a dedicated elevated train laneThis episode ultimately underscores the vital importance of adaptability and forward-thinking as we forge ahead in a rapidly changing economic environment. Join us as we explore these critical themes and more in detail, providing a comprehensive overview of today's supply chain challenges and opportunities.Additional Links & Resources:Rahmel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahmel-wattley-64004a171/Learn more about Truck N' Hustle: Trucknhustle.comWith That Said: https://bit.ly/3I6YtXy Protolabs: https://bit.ly/3HTKV1w Truckers see less business as Los Angeles port volumes slow: https://bit.ly/3G7lGZb Military demand strains metal supply chains: https://bit.ly/3ZLVgTw In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4983804/06E5641B392BEE394780495531F9AE91?partnerref= Trucking’s Next Generation Brings New Ideas to the Workplace: https://bit.ly/4nf79LyThe $10 Billion Proposal to Speed Up U.S.-Mexico Trade: https://bit.ly/467m2JK Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richarddonaldson/ 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: <a href="https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk" rel="noopener noreferrer"...
27 Juni 48min
Inside McCormick’s Bold Supply Chain Strategy
In this inspiring and special episode from the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium in Orlando, Scott Luton of Supply Chain Now sits down with Whitney Shlesinger, Vice President of Global Planning and Logistics at McCormick & Company. From the bold flavors of Old Bay, Frank’s RedHot, and Cholula to global supply chain innovation, Whitney shares how McCormick is blending strategy, sustainability, and leadership development to stay ahead.Key takeaways include:How McCormick structures its supply chain for resilience and growthThe power of data-driven planning and scenario modelingWhy diversity and mentorship are critical to the future of supply chainHow the supply chain functions as a unifying force across the businessWhether you’re a supply chain leader or emerging professional, this episode is packed with insights on vision, structure, and building a culture of excellence. Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Whitney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-shlesinger/Learn more about McCormick: https://www.mccormickcorporation.com/Watch our other interviews from Gartner Supply Chain Symposium 2025: https://supplychainnow.com/gartner-2025 Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about Subscribe to Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com/join Check out Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk WEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKdWEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zNWEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging Manufacturer Unlock Millions in Capex: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEiWEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/inside-mccormicks-bold-supply-chain-strategy-1446
25 Juni 20min
Distribution Strategy & Operations Insights with The Distribution Guy®, Will Quinn
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor sit down with Will Quinn, supply chain consultant at CAMM Consulting and better known as The Distribution Guy® to unpack the evolving world of warehousing and distribution. With a rich background spanning military logistics, Coca-Cola operations, and enterprise tech systems, Will offers a grounded yet forward-looking view of how distribution excellence is built from the floor up.Together, they explore why the biggest risk in distribution is doing nothing, how to use AI to document standard operating procedures, and what the dirtiest ceiling fan in the building might say about a warehouse's performance. Will also shares why digital transformation should support—not drive—your business strategy and why automation won’t replace people, but poorly managed change might.The discussion also touches on tariff-induced uncertainty, rising labor costs, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and the rising importance of nearshoring. Will and Tevon share leadership insights that emphasize culture, consistency, and communication—and leave us with a simple but powerful reminder: success starts with taking care of your people.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro (03:23) Will Quinn, The Distribution Guy® (04:39) Stories and personal backgrounds (13:33) Diving into distribution and warehousing (16:55) Tariffs and global supply chains (20:01) Operational mistakes in warehouse strategy (25:31) Cybersecurity in the supply chain (25:59) Best practices for preventing hacks (26:49) Recognizing phishing attempts (27:15) Operational resilience and cybersecurity (29:16) Assessing warehouse efficiency (30:32) Key factors in warehouse management (31:53) The importance of culture in warehousing (35:37) Risks in technology adoption (42:01) Preparing for the future of warehousing (45:02) How to connect with Will and Tevon Resources:Learn more about The Distribution Guy®: https://www.thedistributionguy.com Connect with Will: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedistributionguy Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ Connect with Tevon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tevontaylor/ 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- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQWEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers...
23 Juni 48min
The Buzz: Cyber Risks in the Transportation Sector
On today's episode of The Buzz, we dive into the critical topics impacting global supply chain. Welcome to The Buzz!This week, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome special guest Kim Winter, Founder and Global Managing Director of Logistics Executive Group, to the show. Listen in as they discuss:The transportation sector's increasing cyber risksThe evolving role of AI and how it can enhance supply chain operationsKey takeaways from major industry events, including Messe Muenchen Transport Logistic and Logisym SingaporeThe importance of digital transformation, automation, and flexibility in talent acquisitionGeopolitical impacts on supply chains, particularly in the Middle EastJoin us and for insights and new strategies to navigate the complexities of modern supply chains.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimblewinter/Lean more about Logistics Executive Group: www.logisticsexecutivegroup.comWith That Said: https://bit.ly/43LvcdDU.S. Bank 2025 Q1 Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bankTransport sector facing rising cyber risks amid AI boom: https://securitybrief.com.au/story/transport-sector-faces-rising-cyber-risks-amid-ai-boomUnlocking the potential of AI in transportation and logistics back office operations: https://www.thescxchange.com/finance-strategy/plan/unlocking-the-potential-of-ai-in-transportation-and-logistics-back-office-operationsLearn 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- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQWEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKdWEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zNWEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You
20 Juni 49min
From Inbox to Action: How Supply Chains Are Automating the Mess Away
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kevin L. Jackson sit down with Antonio Bustamante, CEO of bem, to explore how automation is reshaping the supply chain landscape in 2025. Together, they unpack the hidden costs of manual workflows, the pitfalls of outdated systems, and the massive opportunity in eliminating data friction.Antonio shares how bem helps teams move away from time-consuming email and PDF-based processes toward self-healing, AI-powered systems that learn from every operator input. He discusses why the freight world is especially burdened by unstructured data, and how automation can free up teams to focus on serving customers, not fixing typos.The conversation also covers the limitations of RPA and email triage, the challenge of achieving interoperability across legacy systems, and why meeting operators where they are (even if that means faxes and handwritten notes) is key to meaningful digital transformation. Plus, Antonio offers a peek at bem’s upcoming Command Center, a tool that gives ops teams the power to correct, route, and improve workflows without relying on engineering.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:49) The importance of automation in supply chain(06:57) Challenges of manual data entry(13:47) Unstructured data in supply chain(21:06) The role of communication in logistics(22:34) Understanding multimodal communication(23:45) Challenges with RPA and email triage(24:44) Embracing real-world data(27:09) The role of handwritten notes(27:49) BIM's impact on manual processing(30:39) Introducing the command center(40:08) Composable infrastructureAdditional Links & Resources:Learn more about bem: https://blog.bem.ai/ Connect with Antonio Bustamante: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abmirayo/ Loop automates data transformation at scale for new clients with bem: https://www.bem.ai/customer-stories/loop-automates-data-transformation-at-scale-for-new-clients-with-bemThe Supply Chain Back Office Is Broken: https://lp.supplychainnow.com/bemFor more content with bem and Supply Chain Now, check out the bem Campaign Landing Page: https://supplychainnow.com/bem 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- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQWEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: <a href="https://bit.ly/44b8GKd" rel="noopener noreferrer"...
18 Juni 46min
