Advertise on podcast: Supply Chain Now

AI is changing supply chain planning, but automation is only part of the story. The next big shift? Turning planners into orchestrators.  In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa welcome Razat Gaurav, CEO of Kinaxis, to explore how supply chains have evolved, why faster decision-making matters, and how AI is driving the shift from traditional planning to orchestration.  Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in enterprise software and supply chain technology, Razat examines the growing role of AI agents and the transition of supply chain planners into orchestrators. He also highlights why human judgment, accountability, and cross-functional collaboration remain essential as organizations adopt new technologies. The conversation offers a broader perspective on how supply chain leaders can move beyond automation to achieve meaningful business outcomes.  Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro (06:31) How supply chains have evolved over 25 years (13:08) Supply chain's shift from operations to strategy (17:43) Managing trade-offs through scenario planning (23:48) Why supply chains can't return to normal (28:39) Supply chain: Sensing, planning, and execution (35:12) The hidden costs of supply chain latency (40:19) Why decision-making speed matters (42:13) Rethinking supply chain workflows with AI (52:02) The shift from planners to orchestrators (55:47) What will define successful supply chain leaders?  Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Razat Gaurav: https://www.linkedin.com/in/razatgaurav/ Learn more about Kinaxis: https://www.kinaxis.com/ Connect with Karin Bursa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinbursa Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonlutonUpcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveLearn more about M.F.G.inc’s Frontline Leadership Certificate: MFG.inc/training WEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- Supply Chain Planning Reimagined: Agentic AI for Decision-Centric Planning: https://bit.ly/3VD1NkaWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2WEBINAR- Detect, decide, deliver: improving disruption response across the supply chain: https://bit.ly/4rXhmiIWEBINAR- Merck Animal Health's Journey to Rewiring Planning for Reliability, Agility and Trust: https://bit.ly/4B6Iq3f  This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/from-planning-to-orchestration-future-supply-chain-kinaxis-ceo-razat-gaurav-1650   The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why has three decades of supply chain visibility investment failed to produce meaningful results for the industry?  In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton speaks with Dr. Glenn Richey, Harbert Eminent Scholar at Auburn University, and Matt Brolsma of SPS Commerce, about why visibility tools keep falling short and what actually moves the needle.  Glenn brings ten years of supply chain experience across procurement, manufacturing, and logistics at Scott Paper Company and S.P. Richards, paired with his research at Auburn's Center for Supply Chain Innovation, while Matt works directly with enterprise retailers and distributors at SPS Commerce to translate supplier collaboration challenges into actionable strategy.  The conversation covers why AI can amplify the consequences of bad data, how one retailer recovered $38 million through stronger supplier compliance, and what questions leaders should ask before investing in another visibility platform. Glenn and Matt also explore the link between trusted relationships and trusted data, and why vendor guides deserve more attention.  Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (06:44) Distinguishing visibility, transparency, and traceability (12:30) Why 30 years of visibility tools fell short (18:22) What happens when teams lose trust in the system? (22:57) Does AI solve or magnify the visibility problem? (25:40) When AI recommendations go wrong at the port (30:30) Why visibility tools still leave planners chasing answers (35:45) Building stronger trading partner relationships (37:49) Why structured compliance programs outperform (42:41) How one retailer recovered $38 million (47:20) What should leaders ask before buying more tech?   Additional Links & Resources: SPS Commerce's Supply Chain Visibility Readiness Assessment: https://bit.ly/4scDxSbConnect with Matt Brolsma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewbrolsma/Learn more about SPS Commerce: https://www.spscommerce.com/Connect with Robert Glenn Richey, Jr.: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennrichey/Learn more about Auburn University: https://www.auburn.edu/Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveLearn more about M.F.G.inc’s Frontline Leadership Certificate: MFG.inc/training WEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- Supply Chain Planning Reimagined: Agentic AI for Decision-Centric Planning: https://bit.ly/3VD1NkaWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2WEBINAR- Detect, decide, deliver: improving disruption response across the supply chain: https://bit.ly/4rXhmiIWEBINAR- Merck Animal Health's Journey to Rewiring Planning for Reliability, Agility and Trust: https://bit.ly/4B6Iq3f  This 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/visibility-illusion-why-seeing-problem-never-same-solving-1649   The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From AI investments that fail to deliver results to shifting trade policies and growing supply chain disruptions, today's leaders face mounting pressure to adapt. But what does it really take to turn challenges into opportunities? In this episode of The Buzz, powered by Altium, hosts Scott Luton and Scott DeGroot welcome Dr. Rod Thomas, Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management at the University of Arkansas, and Joanna Pachnik, Founder and CEO of BlueClip, for a discussion on the issues shaping global supply chains. From attracting and developing the next generation of supply chain talent to navigating Hurricane-related energy disruptions and USMCA trade uncertainty, the conversation explores how organizations can build greater resilience. The panel also examines the growing role of AI in transportation, procurement, and reverse logistics, why promising technology initiatives often fail to scale, and how leaders can move beyond AI hype to deliver measurable business results. Key Takeaways: Developing supply chain talent: Discover three practical strategies for attracting, hiring, and preparing the next generation of supply chain professionals through meaningful internships, university partnerships, and effective onboarding.Navigating global disruptions: Explore how hurricane-related energy disruptions, rising transportation costs, and ongoing uncertainty surrounding USMCA negotiations are influencing supply chain strategies.Rethinking supply chain optimization: Learn why companies must move beyond periodic network optimization and continuously evaluate cost, flexibility, and operational resilience.Preparing for the future of reverse logistics: Examine how growing retail returns, expanding secondary markets, and AI-powered solutions are changing the way businesses manage returns.Turning AI investments into measurable results: Understand why choosing the wrong use cases and lacking leadership support can derail technology initiatives, and how starting small can accelerate ROI.Empowering people through technology: Discover how AI can automate repetitive tasks, improve decision-making, and enable employees to focus on higher-value work.Whether you're navigating global trade uncertainty, building a stronger supply chain workforce, or looking for practical ways to make AI deliver real business value, this episode offers actionable insights for today's supply chain leaders. Tune in to learn how forward-thinking organizations are turning disruption into opportunity, strengthening their operations, and preparing their people and technology for what's next. Additional Links & Resources: Altium Develop: https://bit.ly/Try-Altium-DevelopWith That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-11-Oct-2026The Readiness Rules: https://now.supplychainnow.com/the-readiness-rulesConnect with Rod on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rod-thomas-a409a41/Manifest Vegas 2027! Register now & save $900: https://manifestvegas.partners/partners/SupplyChainNowUSMCA status as of October 2026: https://bit.ly/USMCA-Status-12-Oct-2026Connect with Tony Sciarrota: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-sciarrotta-235570/Connect with Scot Case: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotcase/Altium Agile Teams: https://www.altium.com/agile/teamsConnect with Joanna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-pachnik-6329b55a/Learn more about blueclip: blueclip.aiUpcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveLearn more about M.F.G.inc’s Frontline Leadership Certificate: MFG.inc/training WEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- Supply Chain Planning Reimagined: Agentic AI for Decision-Centric Planning: https://bit.ly/3VD1NkaWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2WEBINAR- Detect, decide, deliver: improving disruption response across the supply chain: https://bit.ly/4rXhmiIWEBINAR- Merck Animal Health's Journey to Rewiring Planning for Reliability, Agility and Trust: https://bit.ly/4B6Iq3fThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Scott DeGroot, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-ai-innovations-hurricane-disruptions-building-resilient-supply-chains-1648 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Anyone can buy a plane. What sets a logistics company apart in Latin America is whether the people on the ground trust it with their cargo. Earning that trust takes time, local knowledge, and a commitment to understanding what makes each market different. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Scott DeGroot speak with Jorge Bayona, Vice President for Latin America at Apex Logistics International, about how companies can incorporate the region into their supply chain strategies to improve agility, diversify risk, and unlock growth. Jorge shares his journey from ADM to Deutsche Post and DHL, through leading the expansion of FEMSA Group’s logistics division, Solistica, to building Apex’s Latin American footprint across 18 countries in about two and a half years. Drawing on that experience, he explains why the region can’t be measured by a single average, why the right to play and the right to win are two different things, and why each market rewards a different approach. The conversation explores nearshoring opportunities, emerging trade corridors, regional challenges, and the roles of Miami, Panama, and Mexico as key logistics gateways. Jorge also shares what businesses should look for in a logistics partner, why complementarity matters more than size, and how strong local relationships help companies navigate the region with confidence and build more resilient supply chains.  Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction(03:39) Jorge Bayona on growing up on the island of San Andres, Colombia(04:44) The grandmother who ran a gas station and the grandfather who was a general(07:59) From ADM to DHL to Solistica: Jorge's career path(13:34) What Apex Logistics International does and how it grew in Latin America(22:47) The opportunities and weaknesses shaping supply chains in the region(28:55) The most common mistake: the right to play vs. the right to win(34:03) Four landscapes to evaluate before entering a market(39:43) Why patience and talent matter when entering a new region(45:15) Country by country: gateways and key markets across Latin America(53:17) What to look for in a logistics and supply chain partner   Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Jorge Bayona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorge-bayona-iregui/ Learn more about Apex Logistics International: http://www.apexglobe.com Connect with Scott DeGroot: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-degroot-4600368/ Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveLearn more about M.F.G.inc’s Frontline Leadership Certificate: MFG.inc/training WEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- Supply Chain Planning Reimagined: Agentic AI for Decision-Centric Planning: https://bit.ly/3VD1NkaWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2WEBINAR- Detect, decide, deliver: improving disruption response across the supply chain: https://bit.ly/4rXhmiI  This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Scott DeGroot and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/apex-building-supply-chain-strategy-latin-america-1647  The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A single overlooked component can stop an entire product from shipping. Justin Sears explains why supply chain risk now has to shape design decisions from day one, not after engineering hands the design off to procurement. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Jake Barr speak with Justin Sears, Head of Product Marketing for SaaS at Altium, about rising component risk, hidden supplier dependencies, and why engineering and procurement teams need better visibility into supply conditions earlier in the product development process.  They also explore how AI can help teams surface risks, strengthen requirements, and evaluate alternatives while human judgment remains essential. The conversation highlights how better data, earlier collaboration, and stronger lifecycle thinking can help manufacturers build more resilient products. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction(02:24) Meet Justin Sears, Head of Product Marketing for SaaS at Altium(04:18) Justin's lifelong running passion and how it clears his head(05:35) Justin's background and the Altium family of supply chain solutions(10:23) Three structural risks: tariffs, global conflict, and AI data center demand(14:59) The Digi case study: why manual sourcing doesn't work anymore"(17:43) "Shift left": making supply chain a design input, not an afterthought(22:52) The postage stamp problem: when a cheap part stops a $30K GPU shipment(27:30) Two tiers down: hidden supply chain failures you can't see(29:52) AI and human judgment in hardware design: who asks the questions?(42:31) Counterfeit parts: why fraudsters chase volume, not scarcity(53:57) Three takeaways: what hardware teams should start doing today   Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Justin Sears: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinsears/ Connect with Jake Barr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barr-3883501/ Learn more about Altium: https://www.altium.com/ Learn more about BlueWorld Supply Chain Consulting: https://www.blueworldscc.com/ Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- Supply Chain Planning Reimagined: Agentic AI for Decision-Centric Planning: https://bit.ly/3VD1NkaWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2WEBINAR- Detect, decide, deliver: improving disruption response across the supply chain: https://bit.ly/4rXhmiI  This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/got-chips-managing-electronic-component-supply-chain-risk-face-global-instability-1646 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Technology may be advancing faster than ever, but people, resilience, and smart decision-making remain at the center of supply chain success. In this episode of The Buzz, powered by Altium, Scott Luton and Maithili Shenoy are joined by cybersecurity experts Andrew Alston and Bob Carver to unpack some of the biggest issues shaping supply chain and business, from manufacturing pressures and technology talent gaps to AI-enabled cyberattacks and growing third-party risk. The conversation begins with a look at the latest U.S. manufacturing activity, rising input costs, and the supply chain challenges surrounding the rapidly growing humanoid robotics industry. The panel also explores the widening technology skills gap and why organizations need people who can combine critical thinking with emerging AI capabilities. Then, in recognition of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Andrew and Bob break down how AI is changing the cyber threat landscape. They discuss ransomware-as-a-service, faster exploitation of vulnerabilities, third-party exposure, governance, business continuity, and why traditional cybersecurity approaches are no longer enough. The group also explores why supply chain leaders need to think beyond their own organizations and build cyber resilience across the entire supplier ecosystem. Key TakeawaysPeople remain a critical differentiator in the age of AI. Technology alone doesn't create value; organizations need people who can use it to make better decisions, manage trade-offs, and respond quickly to change.Manufacturers are facing significant cost and profitability pressures. Rising input costs, tariffs, labor constraints, and supplier delays are creating challenges even as manufacturing activity continues to grow.The humanoid robotics opportunity exposes major supply chain gaps. Actuators, semiconductors, critical minerals, and domestic manufacturing capacity could become major constraints as robotics scales.The technology skills gap is holding back AI, cloud, and cybersecurity initiatives. Organizations need to rethink how they develop both technical capabilities and foundational cognitive skills.AI is accelerating cyber threats as well as cyber defenses. Ransomware is becoming more accessible, vulnerabilities are being exploited faster, and organizations can no longer assume traditional patching and security practices will be enough.Cybersecurity must become an ecosystem-wide supply chain priority. Governance, business continuity, supplier vetting, redundancy, and third-party visibility are essential to keeping operations running when, not if, disruptions occur.Supply chain leaders can't afford to treat cybersecurity, AI, talent, and resilience as separate issues. They are increasingly interconnected, and the risks extend far beyond the four walls of any single organization. Tune in to hear practical perspectives on where the biggest vulnerabilities are emerging, why third-party risk deserves greater attention, and what leaders can do now to build stronger, more resilient supply chain ecosystems.   Additional Links & Resources: Altium Develop: https://bit.ly/Try-Altium-DevelopWith That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-3-Oct-2026Maithili’s Keynote: https://bit.ly/Maithili-KeynoteHealthcare Supply Chain Leadership: https://bit.ly/Meena-Medler-on-SCNHow Supply Chain Management Degree Programs are evolving: https://bit.ly/SCM-Programs-EvolvingU.S. manufacturing data for September: https://reut.rs/4hHL06PActuator shortages in U.S. robotics supply chains: https://on.mktw.net/4rPkkFSTech leaders see skills gap costing businesses big time: https://bit.ly/Costly-Tech-Skills-GapConnect with Bob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobcarver/Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-alston-a62990/Connect with Maithili on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maithili-shenoy/Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- How to Stop Losing Margin After a Package Ships: https://bit.ly/4An41UxWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Maithili Shenoy, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-ai-cybersecurity-new-risks-reshaping-supply-chain-1645 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shipping teams often don’t discover wasted spend until the invoice arrives. By then, the opportunity is already gone. John Wharff explains why hidden surcharges, outdated shipping rules, and overlooked shipment outliers can quietly drive up costs, and why the best savings opportunities often come from rethinking the decisions teams already make every day.  In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor speak with John Wharff, Senior Director of Product Management at EasyPost, about how shippers can uncover hidden costs and build more adaptable shipping strategies. They discuss why base rates only tell part of the story, how service levels and carrier choices impact total cost, and why teams need to look beyond average shipments to find where money is being lost.  John and Tevon also explore the role of pressure testing in shipping decisions, using real shipment data to identify gaps before they become expensive problems. From improving cost per package to using AI for analysis and simulation, the conversation highlights how supply chain teams can make smarter decisions, strengthen their processes, and stay ahead of a constantly changing shipping environment.  Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Introduction(01:31) Meet John Wharff, Senior Director of Product Management at EasyPost(02:33) Warm-up: John's motorcycle passion and first Harley Davidson(06:40) Why carrier bills still surprise experienced shippers(08:27) The trap of static rules in a dynamic shipping environment(11:10) Bell curves and outliers: where shipping costs really hide(15:15) Carrier mix and service levels: building your roster for peak season(23:22) Why your master spreadsheet falls apart in real-world shipping(32:43) Pressure testing explained: John's methodology for finding hidden costs(37:13) AI in logistics: where it genuinely helps and where it's hot air(46:41) Call to action: what shippers should do right now before peak season   Additional Links & Resources: Connect with John Wharff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-wharff-7423403a/ Connect with Tevon Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tevontaylor/ Learn more about EasyPost: https://www.easypost.com/ Learn more about Pegasus Logistics Group: https://www.pegasuslogisticsgroup.com/ Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- How to Stop Losing Margin After a Package Ships: https://bit.ly/4An41UxWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2  This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/pressure-test-your-shipping-decision-before-they-cost-you-thousands-1644   The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Enterprise transformation does not start with technology. It starts with understanding the business problem you are trying to solve. John Cusick explains why organizations often struggle with implementations when they focus on selecting systems before defining outcomes, and why successful transformation requires rethinking processes, improving data foundations, and designing technology around the way the business needs to operate. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton speaks with Wiley Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of DOSS, and John Cusick, President of Echo Park Consulting, about how AI-native solutions are changing enterprise implementations and why companies need a new playbook for transformation. They explore why traditional ERP approaches often fail, how best-of-breed technology strategies are becoming more practical, and why organizations should focus on business outcomes instead of forcing their processes into rigid platforms. John and Wiley discuss how companies can use flexible architectures, better data management, and AI-enabled capabilities to create systems that evolve alongside the business. John also explains how agentic implementation is changing the role of technology teams and consultants by accelerating tasks like data mapping, configuration, integration, and testing while allowing humans to focus on validation, judgment, and process design. The conversation explores why AI agents require strong context, clean data, and clear sources of truth to make reliable decisions, and why the future of enterprise technology will depend on combining automation with human expertise. Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Introduction(02:13) Meet Wiley Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of Doss, and John Cusick, President of Echo Park Consulting (06:11) Why transformation projects succeed or fail (09:24) Why organizations start with technology instead of business problems (12:44) The biggest challenges in enterprise implementations (20:20) Why best-of-breed technology strategies are gaining momentum (25:25) How AI agents are changing implementation processes (31:05) Why process design must come before automation (32:05) Rethinking the ERP implementation playbook with Doss (37:05) How AI is changing the human role in implementations (42:13) Building trust, context, and governance for AI agents (45:21) What the future of enterprise technology looks like (53:15) Wiley Jones' key takeaway on outcome-driven transformation Additional Links & Resources: Connect with John Cusick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-cusick/ Connect with Wiley Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wileycwjones/ Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- How to Stop Losing Margin After a Package Ships: https://bit.ly/4An41UxWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Wiley Jones and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/enterprise-unleashed-rethinking-transformation-playbook-1643   The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if every product came with a digital story, one that followed it from raw materials and manufacturing through use, repair, reuse, and ultimately its next life? In this episode of The Buzz, powered by MFG.inc, Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome Marion Rouzeaud, founder of DiPPa and author of DiPPa: Rethinking the Way We Buy Things with Digital Product Passports, for a timely conversation about digital product passports (DPPs), circularity, and the future of manufacturing. Scott, Marty, and Marion explore why digital product passports have the potential to become far more than another compliance requirement. Marion explains how DPPs can create a living digital record for products, giving manufacturers, consumers, repairers, recyclers, and other stakeholders access to trusted information throughout the product lifecycle. The conversation also examines the growing role of AI and automation in manufacturing, how companies are navigating cost pressures and supply chain complexity, and why collecting customer feedback means little without action. Marion walks through her DEPA framework and explains how organizations can connect product strategy, sustainability, data, and circularity to rethink not only how products are made but what happens to them after they enter the market. Key TakeawaysDigital product passports can go far beyond compliance, creating a living record that provides useful product information throughout the entire lifecycle.AI and automation continue to reshape manufacturing, helping organizations address labor shortages while improving forecasting, logistics, operations, and decision-making.Trusted product data can enable circularity by supporting repair, maintenance, reuse, remanufacturing, and recycling.Manufacturers need to think beyond the point of sale, considering during the design process how products can remain valuable and useful for as long as possible.Customer feedback only creates value when companies act on it, making listening and responsiveness essential to building long-term trust.A successful DPP strategy starts with the “why,” connecting customer needs and business priorities to the right data, measurements, and actions.Digital product passports may be driven partly by regulation, but their potential reaches much further. Tune in to hear how organizations can use DPPs as a strategic tool to connect product design, manufacturing, sustainability, customer needs, and the circular economy. You’ll also hear practical perspectives on AI, automation, customer experience, and the evolving manufacturing landscape, and why the companies that get the most value from new technology will be the ones that turn information into action.   Additional Links & Resources:  Download the free DiPPa™ Framework canvases at: https://www.dippa.eu/frameworkMFG.inc: https://mfg.inc/With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-28-SEP-2026CSCMP EDGE: https://www.cscmpedge.org/Manifest: https://manifestvegas.com/SCNEasyPost Guard: https://bit.ly/EasyPost-Guard-460kScott's Post: https://bit.ly/Think-Different-1997Automation, AI among biggest trends shaping manufacturing in 2026: AMT: https://bit.ly/Mfg-Trends-from-IMTS6 food manufacturers talk supply chain tactics: https://bit.ly/6-Manufacturers-PrioritiesRetailers are asking for feedback but are shoppers feeling heard? https://bit.ly/Are-Shoppers-Being-HeardMFG.inc Leadership Training: https://mfg.inc/scnThe Digital Product Passport Registry is now live: https://bit.ly/4xTUAttDiPPa: Rethinking the Way We Buy Things with Digital Product Passports: https://bit.ly/4rEVatESupply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/Marion on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marion-rouzeaud/Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- How to Stop Losing Margin After a Package Ships: https://bit.ly/4An41UxWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Marty Parker, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/thebuzz-unlocking-potential-digital-product-passports-1642 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AI, tariffs, shifting consumer expectations, and new delivery models are creating fresh challenges and opportunities for supply chain leaders. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Jake Barr sit down with Gartner’s Noha Samara to bust some of the biggest myths surrounding AI in supply chain planning. Then, Scott talks with Wall Street Journal reporter Liz Young about the forces reshaping retail and logistics, from product assortment and tariffs to trucking, last-mile delivery, drones, and returns. Noha challenges the idea that AI success is simply about doing the same work faster, emphasizing instead the need to redesign jobs, rethink processes, build trust with planners, and focus AI investments on a smaller number of high-impact use cases. She also explains why productivity gains should be measured by the higher-value work AI enables, not simply by workforce reduction. Later, Liz brings a reporter’s perspective to the rapidly changing retail supply chain. She shares how companies are reducing product variety to manage tariffs and complexity, building greater flexibility and resilience into their networks, and navigating increasingly diverse consumer expectations around delivery. The conversation also explores rising trucking costs, the potential of drone delivery, generational shifts in shopping behavior, and the costly challenge of product returns. Key TakeawaysAI productivity requires redesigning work, not simply accelerating existing tasks. Organizations need to rethink workflows, roles, processes, and decision-making to unlock AI’s full potential.Trust must come before adoption. Planners need to understand how AI reaches its conclusions and how humans and AI will work together before organizations can expect meaningful adoption.AI productivity doesn’t automatically mean workforce reduction. The greater opportunity may be redeploying saved time toward scenario analysis, root-cause analysis, inventory optimization, and other higher-value work.More AI use cases don't necessarily mean more value. High-performing organizations are selective, concentrating resources on fewer, higher-impact initiatives and building capabilities that can support future use cases.Retailers are using assortment and sourcing decisions to manage complexity. Reducing product variety can help companies concentrate on best sellers while simplifying sourcing and tariff exposure.Flexibility and optionality are becoming essential supply chain capabilities. Companies are diversifying sourcing, improving visibility, reconsidering inventory strategies, and preparing for disruptions that may be impossible to predict.The last mile is no longer just a race for speed. Consumers have different expectations around delivery time and cost, forcing retailers to get smarter about inventory placement and fulfillment choices.Returns and emerging delivery models remain major questions for retail. Drone delivery is expanding while retailers continue searching for better ways to manage the cost and complexity created by online returns.Tune in for a wide-ranging look at what supply chain leaders should be thinking about now and what may matter even more in the years ahead. From separating AI reality from hype to preparing for tariffs, transportation shifts, changing consumer behavior, and new fulfillment models, this episode offers practical perspectives for building supply chains that are more adaptable, focused, and prepared for the unexpected. Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Liz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bylizyoung/Connect with Noha: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noha-samara-4864863/Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- You Can't Manage What You Can't See: Using Visibility, KPIs, and AI to Optimize Logistics Operations: https://bit.ly/4ql6iemWEBINAR- The Four Eras of Freight Audit: How we got here, and why the Control Era (finally) changes everything: https://bit.ly/4yVXPBxWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- The Cost of Skipping the Audit: Why Site Scans Should Come Before Every Pallet, Crate, or Wood Packaging RFQ: https://bit.ly/4AJzReAWEBINAR- How to Stop Losing Margin After a Package Ships: https://bit.ly/4An41UxWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/from-planning-retail-where-supply-chain-heading-1641 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Supply chain planning is changing fast, but technology is only part of the story. As AI capabilities expand, procurement becomes more strategic, and planners face an accelerating pace of change, organizations must determine how to embrace innovation without losing sight of the people who make supply chains work. In this episode of Supply Chain Today and Tomorrow, Scott Luton sits down with Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to explore some of the biggest trends shaping supply chain planning and leadership. Mike breaks down the top barriers preventing planners from performing at their best, including the pace of change, digital skills gaps, and the continued need for strong communication and collaboration skills. They also discuss the debate around slowing AI development, the emerging role of AI agents, procurement's growing strategic influence, and how automation can give employees valuable time back. Plus, Mike shares what makes the Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit a valuable opportunity for planning professionals. Key TakeawaysSupply chain planners remain essential. Technology may change how planning gets done, but organizations continue to invest in both planning technology and the people responsible for making critical decisions.Change management is becoming even more important. Leaders need to clearly communicate how AI will affect planning roles and help employees understand where they fit into the future of the organization.Soft skills still matter in an AI-powered workplace. AI can help teams arrive at an answer, but influencing, collaboration, conflict management, communication, and consensus-building remain human responsibilities.AI agents may reshape supply chain teams. Future planning organizations could include both human planners and AI agents, making governance, oversight, and human-machine collaboration increasingly important.Procurement is becoming more strategic. Procurement's influence across the broader supply chain continues to grow while AI creates opportunities to automate repetitive and transactional activities.Automation should give people time back. Removing repetitive work allows employees to spend more time applying expertise, solving problems, being creative, and performing higher-value work.The future of supply chain isn't simply about adopting more technology; it's about figuring out how people and technology can work together more effectively. Tune in to hear Scott and Mike unpack practical ways leaders can support planners, approach AI thoughtfully, rethink repetitive work, and prepare their organizations for what's coming next. Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/Learn more about Gartner: www.gartner.comUpcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- Demand Volatility Isn't a Forecasting Problem: How One FMCG Distributor Released Capacity Without Capital: https://bit.ly/4r94YM6WEBINAR- You Can't Manage What You Can't See: Using Visibility, KPIs, and AI to Optimize Logistics Operations: https://bit.ly/4ql6iemWEBINAR- The Four Eras of Freight Audit: How we got here, and why the Control Era (finally) changes everything: https://bit.ly/4yVXPBxWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- How to Stop Losing Margin After a Package Ships: https://bit.ly/4An41UxWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/think-different-planning-challenges-ai-procurement-leadership-1640 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AI, robotics, and automation are advancing quickly, but successful transformation takes more than adopting the latest technology. It requires the right strategy, the right people, and a clear understanding of the business outcomes you're trying to achieve. In this episode of The Buzz, powered by MFG.inc, Scott Luton is joined by guest co-host Dr. Muddassir Ahmed and Christine Bush, Director of the Robotic and Motion Center of Excellence at Schneider Electric, to explore how AI and robotics are changing manufacturing and the workforce. They discuss the growing debate around AI safety and speed, why companies should focus on augmenting people rather than simply replacing them, and how manufacturers are using robotics to address skilled labor shortages and create more flexible operations. Christine also shares insights into IT/OT convergence, open software-defined automation, and what separates organizations that successfully scale automation from those that remain stuck in pilot mode. Key Takeaways Why organizations need a clear AI strategy that balances speed, safety, and business outcomesHow AI can augment engineers, operators, and maintenance teams rather than simply replace themWhy labor shortages are accelerating investments in robotics and advanced automationHow manufacturers can build greater flexibility into production by making robotics part of the process from the startThe role of IT/OT convergence, IoT, and open software-defined architectures in the future of manufacturingWhy successful automation projects require the right mix of people, perspectives, and technology to move beyond pilot modeAI and robotics offer enormous potential, but technology alone won't transform manufacturing. Tune in to hear practical perspectives on how manufacturers can combine human expertise with smarter automation, build more adaptable operations, and turn promising technology investments into real business value. Additional Resources & Links:  MFG.inc: https://mfg.inc/With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-19SEP2026The Buzz APAC Edition: https://bit.ly/The-Buzz-APAC-Edition-Sept2026SCM Sensei AI: https://www.scmsensei.ai/U.S. Bank Strategic Alliance Leader page: www.supplychainnow.com/us-bankU.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: freight.usbank.comAI rivals found rare agreement on safety. Putting it into practice is harder: https://bit.ly/AI-Slowdown-DiscussionOne-third of AI-replaced workers will be rehired by 2029: Gartner: https://bit.ly/AI-And-The-WorkforceToyota estimates factory automation could cost $6.4 billion per year from 2028: https://reut.rs/4hpMtPcMFG.inc Leadership Training: https://reut.rs/4hpMtPcCelonis Ebook: https://bit.ly/Physical-AI-Explained-in-7-RobotsSupply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/Schneider Electric: https://www.se.com/us/en/Christine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-bush-22568818/Dr. Muddassir Ahmed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muddassirism/Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- Demand Volatility Isn't a Forecasting Problem: How One FMCG Distributor Released Capacity Without Capital: https://bit.ly/4r94YM6WEBINAR- You Can't Manage What You Can't See: Using Visibility, KPIs, and AI to Optimize Logistics Operations: https://bit.ly/4ql6iemWEBINAR- The Four Eras of Freight Audit: How we got here, and why the Control Era (finally) changes everything: https://bit.ly/4yVXPBxWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uWEBINAR- How to Stop Losing Margin After a Package Ships: https://bit.ly/4An41UxWEBINAR- Rethinking the Supply Chain Management Classroom: https://bit.ly/4xJIkM2This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Dr. Muddassir Ahmed, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/thebuzz-smarter-automation-reshaping-manufacturing-1639 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The yard may be one of the most overlooked areas of the supply chain, but its impact extends across transportation, warehousing, customer service, safety, and the bottom line. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton sits down with Adam Newsome, CEO of Lazer Logistics, to explore how greater visibility, intelligence, and action can transform yard operations into a strategic advantage. Adam shares how Lazer Logistics combines connected technology, operational data, AI, and decades of institutional knowledge to improve decision-making across hundreds of locations. He explains why visibility alone is not enough, how AI can help teams identify the “next right thing” to do, and why technology must solve real operational problems. The conversation also introduces “Uncle Phil,” Lazer’s AI coaching tool designed to capture the experience of longtime operations leaders and make that knowledge available to managers at scale. Key Takeaways: The yard connects the supply chain. Inefficiencies between transportation and warehousing can affect the entire operation.Visibility must lead to action. Data creates value when it improves safety, productivity, service, and financial performance.AI needs operational context. Combining technology with institutional knowledge produces more practical guidance.People remain essential. Culture, communication, and hands-on experience are critical to operational excellence.Tune in to learn how Lazer Logistics is moving beyond visibility, scaling decades of expertise with AI, and creating a more connected, efficient, and human-centered approach to yard management. Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Adam: linkedin.com/in/adam-newsome-90a50a34Learn more about Lazer Logistics: https://www.lazerlogistics.com/Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- Demand Volatility Isn't a Forecasting Problem: How One FMCG Distributor Released Capacity Without Capital: https://bit.ly/4r94YM6WEBINAR- You Can't Manage What You Can't See: Using Visibility, KPIs, and AI to Optimize Logistics Operations: https://bit.ly/4ql6iemWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/from-overlooked-optimized-rethinking-yard-management-1638 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transportation may be essential to global supply chains, but that doesn’t mean more movement, more technology, or more complexity automatically creates better results. Sometimes the smartest transportation strategy starts by asking a much simpler question: What is the customer actually trying to accomplish? In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor welcome David Ivan, President and CEO of BNSF Logistics, for a conversation that challenges conventional thinking around transportation, customer experience, lean principles, technology, and the role of rail in today’s supply chain. With more than 25 years of experience on the manufacturing and customer side of logistics, David Ivan brings a unique perspective to leading a logistics organization. He shares why transportation providers need to move beyond selling modes and capabilities and instead focus on solving the customer’s underlying business problem. The conversation explores the trade-offs between simplicity, certainty, and cost, why predictability can be more valuable than shippers realize, and how lean thinking can help organizations identify and eliminate unnecessary transportation waste. David, Scott, and Tevon also discuss the growing complexity of logistics, opportunities for rail, the right role for AI and automation, and why technology should support, not replace, human judgment when exceptions arise. Key TakeawaysStart with the customer’s desired outcome, not the transportation mode. The best solution may look very different once the underlying business problem is understood.Transportation should be viewed through a lean lens. Every unnecessary mile, touch, delay, or handoff can introduce cost and waste into the supply chain.Simplicity, certainty, and cost require trade-offs. Shippers cannot always maximize all three, and priorities may shift depending on market conditions and business needs.Certainty has real financial value. Predictable transportation can reduce safety stock, labor inefficiencies, expedited freight, downtime, and operational disruption.Technology should simplify good processes—not automate bad ones. AI can improve data analysis, pattern recognition, and decision support, but automation alone cannot fix a broken process.Human judgment still matters. Technology is powerful for routine work and identifying risk, but people remain essential for exception management, customer relationships, and complex decisions.The people closest to the work often understand the problems best. Respect for people remains a foundational lean principle and an important leadership discipline.If your transportation strategy still begins with rates, modes, or available capacity, this conversation offers a different way to think. David Ivan brings the perspective of both a longtime transportation buyer and logistics provider to show why successful logistics starts with understanding the business problem, reducing friction, and creating outcomes customers can actually rely on. Tune in to learn how lean thinking, smarter use of technology, greater certainty, and customer-focused transportation strategies can help organizations reduce waste while turning logistics into a competitive advantage.  Additional Resources & Links:  Connect with David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ivan-80a920a/Learn more about BNSF Logistics: https://www.bnsflogistics.com/Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- Demand Volatility Isn't a Forecasting Problem: How One FMCG Distributor Released Capacity Without Capital: https://bit.ly/4r94YM6WEBINAR- You Can't Manage What You Can't See: Using Visibility, KPIs, and AI to Optimize Logistics Operations: https://bit.ly/4ql6iemWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/less-waste-better-outcomes-rethinking-transportation-1637 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Supply chains are facing pressure from every direction, from inflation and shifting consumer behavior to climate-driven disruption and rapidly evolving AI capabilities. For leaders, the challenge isn’t simply keeping up. It’s figuring out where to focus, how to make faster and better decisions, and how to turn emerging technology into measurable business value. In this episode of The Buzz, powered by MFG.inc, Scott Luton and special guest co-host Tanzil Uddin with Manifest are joined by Dheera Anand, Partner at Bain & Company, to unpack some of the biggest forces shaping supply chain today. They explore the latest challenges at the Panama Canal, changing consumer behavior, and lessons in regional resilience from APAC before diving deep into AI and supply chain transformation. Dheera shares practical examples of how organizations are moving beyond AI experimentation and “pilot fatigue” to create real operational value. The conversation also explores high-frequency decision-making, the importance of choosing the right AI applications, and how AI could reshape integrated business planning through faster scenario planning, continuous monitoring, and an “always-on” approach to IBP.   Key TakeawaysPredictability and visibility are critical to resilience. Disruptions such as those affecting the Panama Canal demonstrate why companies need to understand their exposure throughout the supply network, not just at tier one.Consumers are still spending, but they’re becoming more value-conscious. Retailers need greater precision around inventory, working capital, automation, and productivity as economic pressures continue.AI’s greatest value may be in high-frequency decisions. Thousands of small operational decisions can create significant value leakage when humans simply don’t have the capacity to address them all in real time.Moving beyond AI pilot fatigue requires better use-case selection. Leaders should consider data availability, decision frequency, variability, and the consequences of error when determining where AI can deliver scalable value.World-class IBP is a decision process—not a reporting process. Effective IBP should drive decisions, trade-offs, scenario planning, and preparation for what happens when the plan changes.AI could make IBP increasingly “always on.” Faster scenario modeling, automated assumption monitoring, and early-warning signals could move organizations beyond the traditional monthly planning cadence.Not all complexity creates value. Organizations need greater visibility and governance to distinguish complexity that customers value from complexity that adds cost without meaningful return.  Supply chain leaders don’t need more technology experiments; they need practical ways to turn technology, data, and planning into better decisions. Tune in to hear Scott, Tanzil, and Dheera explore how leaders can move beyond AI pilots, strengthen resilience, rethink IBP, and build supply chains that are better equipped to compete in an increasingly complex environment.   Additional Links & Resources: MFG.inc: https://mfg.inc/With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-12-Sep-2026Manifest 2027: https://manifestvegas.partners/partners/SupplyChainNowSupply Chain & Logistics Summit: https://bit.ly/SupplyChainAndLogisticsSummit-2026The Panama Canal’s New Boss Inherits a Drought and a Bidding War for Transit Slots: https://on.wsj.com/4xW4xYbInflation persisted in August, potentially locking in a Fed interest rate hike: https://bit.ly/4gSLJD83 lessons from Asia-Pacific on regional cooperation in a fragmented world: https://bit.ly/Learning-from-APACThe Buzz APAC Edition for September 9th: https://bit.ly/The-Buzz-APAC-EditionMFG.inc Leadership Training: https://mfg.inc/trainingSupply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/Bain: https://www.bain.com/Dheera on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dheeraanand/Tanzil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanziluddin/Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/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-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/3XH6OVkLearn more about Blue Yonder Cognitive Solutions: http://blueyonder.com/cognitiveWEBINAR- Demand Volatility Isn't a Forecasting Problem: How One FMCG Distributor Released Capacity Without Capital: https://bit.ly/4r94YM6WEBINAR- You Can't Manage What You Can't See: Using Visibility, KPIs, and AI to Optimize Logistics Operations: https://bit.ly/4ql6iemWEBINAR- The Real ROI of AI Analytics in the Supply Chain: Better Answers When Everyone Starts Asking: https://bit.ly/3TpCX6uThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tanzil Uddin, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-ai-scale-panama-canal-risk-future-IBP-1636 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.