Let's Talk Supply Chain podcast

51:57

On the Season 2 debut of Lost Cultures: Living Legacies , we travel to Bermuda, an Atlantic island whose history spans centuries and continents. Once uninhabited, Bermuda became a vital stop in transatlantic trade, a maritime stronghold, and a cultural crossroads shaped by African, European, Caribbean, and Native American influences. Guests Dr. Kristy Warren and Dr. Edward Harris trace its transformation from an uninhabited island to a strategic outpost shaped by shipwrecks, colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires. Plus, former Director of Tourism Gary Phillips shares the story of the Gombey tradition, a vibrant performance art rooted in resistance, migration, and cultural fusion. Together, they reveal how Bermuda’s layered past continues to shape its people, culture, and identity today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

Let's Talk Supply Chain

Series home•Feed

My Name is Sarah Barnes-Humphrey and this is Let's Talk Supply Chain where I interview the top Supply Chain professionals in the industry. You will learn about best practices, changes in the industry and Hot Topics surrounding Supply Chain. Have a specific question you want answered? E-mail us at listener@letstalksupplychain.com

523 episodes

Let's Talk Supply Chain

18 subscribers

updated 4 days ago

Series home•Feed

523 episodes

All episodes

1
468: Make Intelligent Purchases Driven by Data, with ProcurementIQ 44:26

4 days ago44:26

44:26

Anthony & Lyle of ProcurementIQ talk about client collaboration, leveraging data, the growth of procurement & the biggest challenges impacting teams in 2025. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [06.08] Lyle’s background and the journey that led him to co-found ProcurementIQ. [09.00] How ProcurementIQ has evolved over the last decade, and where they are now. “We were learning – and so was procurement in its own right. The concept of category intelligence wasn’t really a thing in 2013... Back then there was market intelligence so what we really had to learn about was that evolution.” [11.13] Anthony’s background, how it sparked a passion for supply chain and why, after years in the industry, he decided to go to school for supply chain. “It’s never a bad time to invest in yourself and develop your skillset.” [14.08] The biggest supply chain challenges and disruptions, and the impact they’re having on procurement practitioners and their ability to plan ahead and do their jobs effectively. “It’s creating a ton of uncertainty – which is the bane of our existence in this industry! It’s making it much harder to plan and strategize for de-risking supply chains. And the on-off again approach to tariffs makes it even more difficult, because the calculus is constantly changing.” [16.09] Creating effective feedback loops between vendors and clients, the importance of listening, and the true story of how ProcurementIQ leveraged client feedback and collaboration to create their upgraded product suite. “We’ve been through a digital transformation to help our clients better navigate the complex environment they live in... Change is constant, whether it's priorities, cost savings, consolidation, risk mitigation, supplier diversity – clients are ultimately leaning on us to help them better understand, from an external market standpoint, what all of this means.” “It created a very open and honest feedback loop… And it all started with conversation and collaboration.” [22.47] ProcurementIQ’s interactive website, how its market dashboard helps clients understand their buying power and leverage insights to improve it, and how benchmark pricing allows clients to engage with the marketplace in a way they haven’t been able to do before. [25.58] ProcurementIQ’s data and category insights, and how enhanced depth into areas like occupation profiles, external demand determinates and price driver profiles helps clients. “There’s additional depth and analysis on price driver profiles to help customers construct better ‘should-cost’ models and ask better questions.” [29.17] The ideal client for ProcurementIQ. [30.44] A case study detailing how ProcurementIQ helped a manufacturing client, that were looking to centralize their indirect spend and build category plans that supported stakeholder recommendations and transparency, to shorten their speed to information, boosting stakeholder engagement and supporting the team to increase efficiency. [34.20] The big questions facing the industry in the second half of 2025, and what procurement teams should be focusing on. “The big question, especially with the tariff environment, is: 'Is this going to last for the full term of this administration?' And what the heck is trade policy going to look like?! In the short-term, it’s about getting creative with manufacturing capacity… and re-working supply chain networks.” “Procurement leaders are facing challenges retaining, developing and attracting strong talent… There’s going to be growth in the procurement profession, so leaders and individuals need to think about what they’re doing to set themselves up for success, not only for what we’re facing now but what we’re anticipating in the future.” [38.47] How to take advantage of ProcurementIQ’s special deal for Let’s Talk Supply Chain listeners. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to ProcurementIQ’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with ProcurementIQ and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn or Instagram , or you can connect with Anthony or Lyle on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more about procurement, check out 462: Procurement Unlocked: Sourcing Best Practices in a Tariff-Driven World, with ProcureAbility , 243: Reinventing Freight Procurement with Emerge or 211: Transform Your Procurement Process, with Zip.…

1
467: Put The Pedal To The Metal with Hassle-Free Rentals & Leasing, with Premier Trailer Leasing 39:29

11 days ago39:29

39:29

Craig Barth of Premier Trailer Leasing talks about understanding if your business needs to buy, rent or lease; & leveraging fleet management for success. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [05.31] An overview of Premier Trailer Leasing – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers. [06.07] What sets Premier apart, and the secret to their success as they celebrate 20 years in business. “There are several companies that will rent or lease you a semitrailer. So why do people come to Premier? The reality is: it’s the people. It’s the partnerships we form, the services we provide – we take a very personal approach, and we look to help the customer solve a problem first.” [07.57] From economic issues to continued overcapacity, the biggest challenges in the transportation industry right now. “It’s one of the most challenging environments we’ve ever been in. The transportation industry, depending on your measurement, is between two to three years into a recession… And now we have mass uncertainty. Our customers don’t know what’s happening from one day to the next, they don’t know how much their goods are going to cost – or if they’re even coming!” [10.31] Premier’s inventory of over 65,000 trailers and network of locations across the US, and how customers can work with them. [12.51] The difference between trailer renting and leasing, the benefits to each, the factors businesses need to consider when they’re deciding whether to buy, rent or lease, and how Premier help businesses decide what’s right for them. “Most companies should own a portion, lease a portion, and rent a portion of their fleet. And we help customers understand where those lines are.” [17.08] The ideal client for Premier Trailer Leasing. [19.18] Premier’s trailer and cargo tracking solution, and an overview of some of the most promising innovations they're seeing in the space, from cargo sensors and volume metrics to weight and door sensors. “There’s almost too much data available. It’s all about helping the customer understand what data they need and what they can actually use.” [24.51] How Premier find the balance between supporting clients and managing their own business in uncertain times, and how Premier data gives clients a competitive advantage. [27.55] A case study detailing how Premier helped a large packaged goods company, that had always owned 100% of their fleet, cut their maintenance costs in half through strategic trailer leasing. “They’ve taken a far more proactive approach based on what we were able to demonstrate through the leasing side... Trailers for them were a small piece, so they weren’t really paying attention. We were able to save them millions of dollars.” [32.18] What we can expect from the industry as we look towards the second half of 2025. “We’re approaching the second half of the year cautiously optimistic. There are going to be a lot of opportunities out there, we hope there will be some resolution to a lot of the chaos and uncertainty that’s in the market. But we are going to see some price increases.” RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to Premier Trailer Leasing’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Premier and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn , Facebook or YouTube , or you can connect with Craig on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more about trucking, check out 460: Discover the Limitless Value of Dedicated Freight in Today’s Market, with Werner , Where are trucking rates headed in 2025? 7 execs weigh in – Supply Chain Dive , or 429: Women In Supply Chain, Kameel Gaines .…

1
466: Women in Supply Chain, Alexia McLaughlin 31:31

18 days ago31:31

31:31

Alexia McLaughlin talks about making an impact through innovation; her commitment to cultures of excellence; & her big achievement as an industry rising star. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [03.52] An introduction to Alexia and her role at Veho. “If Uber and UPS had a baby, it would be Veho!” [05.08] How Alexia began her career in sales, and her journey through roles at Oracle and Jebbit to her current position at Veho. “I never thought I was going to be in sales! That used car salesman connotation springs to your mind… But, when I was coming out of college, a lot of mentors who’s careers I admired started in sales. So I thought: ‘OK, I’m going to give this a try! I don’t know if I’ll love it, but I’ll learn a lot.’” [09.07] Alexia’s experience moving from a big, corporate environment to a smaller, start-up culture. “When you’re working for a big company, there’s a lot of layers, it’s very bureaucratic, there’s a lot of structure and process. But I wanted ambiguity. Both of my roles after Oracle you were building as you were steering the ship… It was exciting, and every day was different.” [11.08] Making impact through innovation, the importance of ‘selling in’ to internal stakeholders, and how Alexia successfully led a new business opportunity, navigating the complexity of managing risk, expectation, and leadership buy-in. “When you’re on the front line selling, and then coming back to the business to help inform the products and the offerings that we build, that’s a role that drives impact – and that’s exactly what I wanted.” [15.31] From working with mentors to backing your approach with data, Alexia’s advice for building career confidence. [17.23] Alexia’s biggest career achievement, and why it’s vital for women to understand their impact and to share and celebrate their successes. [20.54] The challenges Alexia has faced during her career, and the turbulent nature of sales. “I’ve had so many times of doubt, thinking: ‘I’m done with sales!’… It’s an up and down rollercoaster… There have been a thousand little failures along the way.” [22.06] How to foster a culture of excellence, and why that’s so important. “You have to lead by example… With new hires there’s only so much you can do in the training and onboarding process. The rest has to come from them seeing excellence throughout the organization. If everyone is operating at a high bar, you start to learn from observing the actions that are celebrated, the calibre of the team – and if you hire great, hungry people that want to operate at that level, then there’s a nice healthy stimulating environment.” [24.29] What Alexia’s Rising Star award at this year’s Women in Supply Chain Awards means to her, and her advice for young women looking to follow in her footsteps. [26.02] The future for Alexia, and her ambition for Veho over the next five years. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: You can connect with Alexia McLaughlin over on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more inspirational women, check out 444: Women In Supply Chain, Gina Anderson , 429: Women In Supply Chain, Kameel Gaines or 410: Women In Supply Chain, Julie Tilenius.…

1
465: Your Fulfillment Transformation Starts Now, with TGW Logistics 49:30

25 days ago49:30

49:30

Dexter Weber of TGW Logistics talks about the trends, challenges & opportunities in warehouse logistics; building strategic partnerships; and TGW's new brand. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [05.31] TGW’s 50+ year journey from small fitters shop in Austria to global manufacturing leader. “Part of our journey was becoming a foundation-owned company... We reinvest our profits into our solutions and capabilities, and to charity. We’re not chasing goals and pleasing shareholders – we’re focused on that long-term vision.” [09.07] Where TGW are now, their vision for the future, and a why they’re unveiling a new brand for a new era. [12.21] The ideal client for TGW Logistics. “What we’re really looking for is someone that wants to build a true partnership. We need to be an extension of their team and share a vision to really accomplish the goals they want to achieve. Being collaborative makes sure we’re both successful.” “Building relationships and trust is the foundation of any good, solid business project.” [15.03] The landscape of warehouse logistics and, from service level agreements and inventory to skill shortages and temperature control, the biggest challenges in the industry right now. [19.56] From improving fulfilment speeds to facilitating more frequent small shipments from stores, the biggest opportunities in warehouse logistics and ecommerce, and why automation is increasingly important in helping organizations pursue those opportunities. “Automation, at its core, is all about process improvement. The goal is to eliminate multiple non-value-add manual touches, boosting speeds… You can take manual efforts, that may take hours or days, to pick orders – and move it up to minutes.” [23.44] Robotics, conveyor, automatic storage and retrieval systems – the different types of automation TGW uses within their solutions. [25.19] How TGW work with customers to understand their challenges and develop customized solutions, using their warehouse automation technologies, to help customers achieve smarter, more efficient intralogistics. “We have experts in different areas, so we can understand the industries a lot better: what do their typical supply chain setups look like? What are some common challenges?… Then we look at each process in the warehouse, from receiving to outbound.” [29.24] The warehouse management software that sits behind TGW’s products, and how that tech pulls everything together. “The WMS is the backbone of your warehouse operations. [31.18] How TGW support both equipment and software with their range of lifetime services, and how they build strategic bonds with customers to empower them to meet their short-term goals as well as plan and prepare for long-term success. [35.28] A case study showing how TGW helped a key client tackle big issues to create a network of 650,000 storage locations, managing 125,000 SKUs, with the ability to handle more than 300,000 order lines per day during peak season, ultimately helping them to achieve the best cost per unit in their entire network. [40.09] From mobile and palletizing robotics to robotic picking, the trends and technologies shaping the future of the warehouse logistics sector. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to TGW Logistics’ website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with TGW and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram or YouTube , or you can connect with Dexter on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more about warehousing, listen to 412: Maximize Warehouse Efficiency and Profitability, with CargoWise or read The Warehouse of the Future .…

1
464: Women in Supply Chain, Beverly Steele 31:33

5 weeks ago31:33

31:33

Beverly Steele talks about her journey, making a big change mid-career; what it means to be a workforce innovator; and her take on work-life balance. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.29] An introduction to Beverly and her role at Inmar. [05.11] Beverly’s career journey, and her decades of varied experience. “I’ve been in reverse logistics well over 20 years. I actually stopped saying how long because I realized I’d been in it longer than some of my colleagues have been alive!” [07.15] Beverly’s 20-year tenure at CORT, and an overview of the roles she took on as she climbed the ranks. [08.07] Inmar’s joint venture with Blue Yonder to create a returns drop network that reduces costs for brands and makes life easy for consumers. [09.46] Why Beverly made a big change mid-career, what she was looking for in her next step, and her advice for other mid-career professionals considering making a change. “I’d moved up in the ranks and there weren’t many places for me to go to make the money I wanted to make and have the challenges that I wanted… It was scary, but sometimes I think: why didn’t I leave sooner?!’” [12.33] From sales to reverse logistics technology – why Beverly transitioned to a different space in the industry, and the benefits of pivoting. [14.41] Beverly’s Woman in Supply Chain Forum award, what being a ‘workforce innovator’ means to her, and the importance of increasing support and success for work from home teams. “I’ve always had a passion for women in supply chain, and giving them the tools and opportunities to move into leadership.” [15.46] As a part of multiple organizations and a champion for women, the big issue Beverly hears women in the workplace raise, time and again. “Women don’t want to complain, it’s hard to find a voice without being looked at as angry or difficult.” [17.49] What her ‘workforce innovator’ award means to Beverly, and why forums and awards for women are so important. [20.05] Beverly’s experience of being a working Mom, the bias and discrimination still in play, and what needs to change to improve workplaces and cultures for working mothers. “I spent most of my life hiding the fact that I was a Mom at work, I never wanted to talk about my kids in case people thought I was less dedicated. Then I dropped my kids off at school and, to my Mom friends who didn’t work, I was hiding the fact that I was a working Mom because they would say: ‘oh she’s leaving her kids.’ It was lonely.” [23.03] Beverly’s take on work-life balance, and why it’s crucial to build a lifestyle that works for you. “You need to be really clear on what’s important to you. And if you’re in a work environment where you’re not able to live the life you want, maybe it’s time for a change. Because not every company is going to have a culture that you’ll thrive in.” [26.05] The future for Beverly. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: You can connect with Beverly Steele over on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more from Inmar, check out 372: Women in Supply Chain, T.J. Kragenbrink or SEA 2, EP 87 – Are you getting the most out of your returns?…

1
463: Simplify Your Last Mile with Technology That Delivers, with CXT SoftwareD 45:31

6 weeks ago45:31

45:31

Phillip Lechter of CXT Software talks about challenges in last mile; building a people-first culture; & how they're helping customers grow, compete & thrive. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [05.45] How CXT innovated over the past 25 years to meet the changing needs of an evolving logistics landscape. “25 years is a long time in the software space!… In maturation of software, it’s easy to want to 'set it and forget it', and live off the benefits. But you can’t do that today. Supply chain is changing so rapidly, and our focus is on innovation, connectivity, and our ability to make it easy for our clients to do what they want to do - and not be hamstrung by the business we’ve created.” [09.13] Where CXT is now, what they do, and how they help their customers. “It’s about making ourselves as configurable as possible to our clients... our ability to serve multiple workflows based on the business our clients are doing for their own customers.” [11.08] The ideal client for CXT. [13.25] From the uniqueness of workflows to real-time visibility, some of the biggest challenges in the industry right now, as last mile strives to catch up with changing consumer expectations. “Amazon has done some amazing things, but it’s made it very difficult for the average courier service – everyone wants that Amazon experience… And that’s the opportunity we have in the TMS space, to even the playing field.” [16.04] How CXT’s white-labeled portal empowers clients with the tools they need, without a big costly investment, and how that ultimately drives customer loyalty and boosts satisfaction. “Too often we’re in reactive not proactive mode. And the more we can streamline that, the more we can meaningfully create relationships with our clients.” [18.59] How CXT’s shipment management technology supports operations teams across a range of functions, and a closer look at the user interface. “We’re ensuring that a dispatcher still has the ability to make decisions, but some of the heavy lifting gets done for them. They’re managing exceptions rather than every single element along the way.” “We see a ton of waste that’s really low margin. Even a 1% increase in profit can be pretty significant in this type of business.” [24.30] The importance of driver management, and how CXT’s app integrates with operational and client functions to tackle challenges, and drive efficiency, accountability and customer service. [30.19] Some of the key opportunities and growth areas CXT are supporting their customers with. [32.53] A case study showing how CXT helped a long-standing client enter the medical space and demonstrate a significant efficiency metric, and the importance of partnerships. [36.44] Why CXT consciously built a people-first culture, and what we can expect from them in 2025. “This business is a people business… We use software as a way to make efficiencies, but it’s still somebody delivering to somebody else!” RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to CXT Software’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with CXT and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn , Facebook , X (Twitter) , Instagram or YouTube , or you can connect with Phillip on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more about last mile, check out 365: Delivering the Amazon effect: how to increase your last mile delivery efficiency by 30% , 348: How COVID Changed Last Mile Delivery Forever, with SEKO or 393: Get 100% Visibility Over Your Final Mile, with OneRail .…

1
462: Procurement Unlocked: Sourcing Best Practices in a Tariff-Driven World, with ProcureAbility 45:55

7 weeks ago45:55

45:55

Carlos Perico of ProcureAbility talks about sourcing best practices in a tariff-driven world & how to turn procurement from cost center to competitive advantage IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.29] An introduction to Carlos and ProcureAbility. “All we do is procurement! It’s our speciality, it’s what we’re passionate about. And that’s key.” [05.59] Tariffs: what they are, and why supply chain professionals need to pay attention. [07.07] Diversification: Some of the strategies companies can employ to build agile supply chains for long-term resilience, the big challenge with long-term strategies, and why your supply chain is like Tetris. “Diversification is the name of the game. You don’t want to have all your eggs in one basket – but the challenge now is that the baskets are getting very complex!!” “For those long-term strategies to pay off, you have to start now.” [14.08] How companies can utilize scenario planning or future-proofing to prepare for further tariff fluctuations. “You need to know your risk. It sounds simple… but you need to go deeper. You need to dive deeper into understanding your supply chain at different levels, your supplier network – and data becomes even more important.” [19.17] Dual-sourcing: what it is, and the impact that implementing dual-sourcing strategies can have on risk mitigation. “Communicate to your stakeholders, because we human beings have a tendency to forget the risk when it’s not present... Communicate the risk you’re trying to mitigate in advance, build that relationship with the business.” [24.57] How to effectively work with suppliers: How fluctuating tariffs are impacting supplier pricing and contract stability, and how businesses can think about strengthening long-term partnerships whilst retaining the need for short-term agility. [31.19] Working with technology: How businesses can leverage AI and data analytics to predict and mitigate tariff impacts. “Live data visibility is critical right now… Technology is allowing us to be immediately alert… So you can prepare and be more educated.” [37.09] How AI helps businesses to shift the focus from damage control to proactivity, and turn procurement into a competitive advantage rather than a cost center. “Everybody wants to mitigate cost… But you need to continuously evolve your procurement organization to become more of a business support and value driver, as opposed to just one cost center.” [39.49] The key lessons to learn from this discussion. [42.01] How Let’s Talk Supply Chain listeners can benefit from a limited-time discount with ProcureAbility. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to ProcureAbility’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with ProcureAbility and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn or YouTube , or you can connect with Carlos on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more about procurement, read The Three Biggest Challenges For Procurement – And What To Do About Them or listen to 243: Reinventing Freight Procurement with Emerge or 211: Transform Your Procurement Process, with Zip .…

1
461: Go Behind the Scenes of a History-Making Partnership, with OneRail and PepsiCo 24:15

7 weeks ago24:15

24:15

Bill Catania of OneRail and Anna Farberov of PepsiCo talk all about their strategic partnership, how it works & the benefits it drives for Pepsi customers. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [03.42] Introductions to Bill and OneRail, and Anna and PepsiCo Labs. [06.22] Why PepsiCo reached out to OneRail to explore partnership opportunities. “They have the solution and we have the problem; they have an entrepreneurial mindset and can move fast, and we have the business expertise and deep industry understanding. And when we’re able to feed that back, that’s where the magic happens.” [06.48] The PepsiCo Labs model, and how the team proactively seek out companies to partner with. “We want to solve problems in the business versus having shiny toys, saying a lot of buzzwords and ticking boxes.” [08.52] The impact of their strategic partnership for PepsiCo and their customers, and OneRail’s business. [11.24] From expanding capacity to maintaining service levels across different customer sizes, the business challenges PepsiCo were looking to solve. [12.19] How OneRail approached the relationship with PepsiCo. “It comes down to being a good listener… There have been a lot of operational changes that had to happen that weren’t easy… But we’ve perfected the model.” [13.54] How OneRail worked flexibly with PepsiCo to achieve strategic alignment and become a true extension of their team. [16.19] The importance of transparency, and the ability to positively give and receive feedback, in building successful partnerships. [17.15] From an increased top line to improved customer experience, the benefits PepsiCo are realizing through their partnership with OneRail. “The vastness of PepsiCo is unbelievable! I get excited when I think about the path forward, because there are so many different things we can do together and problems we can solve.” [18.38] What 2025 is going to bring for the PepsiCo and OneRail partnership. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to OneRail’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with OneRail and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn , YouTube , Facebook or X (Twitter) or you can connect with Bill or Anna on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed the show and want to hear more from OneRail, we have plenty more great content for you. Check out: 440: Level Up Your Fulfillment Capabilities, with OneRail 419: Discover OmniPoint Inventory Visibility and Tackle Shrinkage, with OneRail 349: Deliver a Frictionless Last Mile, with OneRail 393: Get 100% Visibility Over Your Final Mile, with OneRail…

1
460: Discover the Limitless Value of Dedicated Freight in Today’s Market, with Werner 45:33

8 weeks ago45:33

45:33

Eric Downing of Werner talks about dedicated freight solutions, the benefits, and the landscape of freight shipping and logistics in 2025. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [05.54] Eric’s background and transition from US Air Force to supply chain, and the different business areas he’s moved through in his 27-year tenure at Werner. [08.57] The landscape of freight shipping and logistics and the biggest challenges in 2025, from tariffs to navigating seasonal disruption. “Most carriers are glad to put 2023 and 2024 in the rear-view mirror. 2025 is better, we’re seeing more robust bid activity, better engagement with customers… Are we out of the woods? No. But are we seeing some good things? Yes!” [11.39] Why an increasing number of shippers are turning to outsourced dedicated solutions instead of managing their own private fleets. “Customers want to focus their resources, time, and people on what they do – their primary business. Because it’s a competitive world… And, let’s be honest, running your own trucking company takes a ton of capital investment.” [13.34] The challenges of tracking and visibility when working with multiple third-party providers and the benefit of having a single dedicated outsourced solution. [15.45] The Werner approach and how they work with clients to understand their fleet challenges and opportunities and deliver customized solutions. “The first step is actually listening to your customer! Dedicated providers can get caught up in “I know how to do this, I’ve done this business before” – but you’ve got to start out by learning your customer’s business… Every business is unique, and you’ve got to treat it that way.” [18.34] Werner’s investment in new equipment, sustainability initiatives, and maintenance programs, and how it’s helping to ensure the highest levels of reliability and efficiency for shippers. [23.04] The critical role of driver training, compliance, and proactive safety measures in dedicated fleet operations, and how companies can leverage safety as a competitive advantage. [27.03] The technology that supports Werner’s dedicated solutions, and where they are on their own digital transformation journey. “Everybody has limited resources, so how you do not chase every shiny bauble? How do you focus and vet what’s going to make the biggest difference?” [32.57] The value in dedicated freight solutions and the impact they have on teams at a business level and at a wider industry level. [35.04] A case study showing how Werner worked with one of their most long-standing clients to optimize their business, from reducing fleet on the road and boosting productivity to improving service and visibility and driving sales in-store. [39.43] From customer service to growth, Werner’s focus for the next six months. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to Werner’s website to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Werner and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn , Facebook , YouTube , Instagram , or X (Twitter) , or you can connect with Eric on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more from Werner, check out 446: Keep America Moving, with Werner .…

1
458: Demystifying Industry Buzzwords and Innovating Intermodal, with Lynxis 37:56

9 weeks ago37:56

37:56

Allen Thomas of Lynxis talks about industry challenges, the biggest buzzwords, and why organizations need to pay more attention to improved orchestration. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.20] An introduction to Allen, and Lynxis. [04.53] The biggest conversations on the show floor at Manifest. “Agentic AI is the new buzzword – it’s the new blockchain! There’s a lot of hype, but there’s also a lot of hope.” [06.29] The biggest problems in the intermodal industry right now. “Visibility is still key, because there’s so much complexity when all of this data comes together. We’re not certain who’s right and who’s wrong, there’s no system of record as this cargo moves inland and then back through the flow.” “A lot of the technology projects we’ve seen have been focused on an insular basis, intra-company process improvement versus: how do we make this entire supply chain more efficient and effective for the shippers and carriers that move it?… We’re trying to take costs out of our own internal operations, but we’re not looking at the big picture on what makes everything more seamless.” [10.24] What Lynxis is building to help solve the industry’s biggest challenges. “We’re a custodian of technology for our customers... And we add the infrastructure to support it.” [11.59] AI and how it’s being talked about, and utilized, across the industry. “Everybody wants to use the AI buzzword, when what they’re using isn’t actually AI.” [16.11] Why process automation, not robotic automation, needs to be top of the priority list for landside logistics facilities. “Most container operations we see really can leverage more of the process automation.” [18.28] The importance of data and analytics in driving operational performance and competitive advantage. “You either have to invest in-house, or have a good partner to help you mine the data that’s critical to your business operation. The thing that differentiates you, and enables your core competencies, is a firm grasp on data.” [22.25] Why AI isn’t an easy fix for scheduling, and why organizations need to pay more attention to improved orchestration. “It’s nothing that AI needs to solve, or even can solve right now, because there’s not even the connectivity between all the players.” “When you say automation and scheduling, we hear ‘orchestration.’” [24.46] How improved planning and orchestration can help shippers eliminate excess inventory and reduce costs. [26.17] From talent shortages to managing infrastructure, the biggest obstacles standing in the way of improved intermodal efficiency. [32.02] The importance of case studies and why Allen wants to talk about proven results, not just hype.…

1
457: Discover Supply Chain Software that People Love, with Rygen Technologies 25:41

9 weeks ago25:41

25:41

Tony Winters of Rygen Technologies talks about being inspired by customer challenges; why visibility is still a challenge; & investing big in agentic AI. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.33] An introduction to Tony, his career journey, and his role at Rygen Technologies. “In college, you learn how to solve these algorithms and problems. And, in supply chain, you really get to implement them.” [06.24] An overview of Rygen Technologies – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers. “We’re hoping to leave our mark on the industry, solve some problems – and have fun doing it!” [08.14] From visibility to technology, the biggest challenges Rygen customers are facing right now. [09.39] Why Rygen is inspired by customer challenges, and their approach to technology and problem-solving. “We crave what the industry wants. They’re asking for things, and we crave that knowledge!.. We take the feedback, learn from it, and make it better.” [11.22] Rygen’s Corsair transportation management, and why it’s not your typical TMS. [12.32] How Rygen are bringing ‘integration platform as a service’ to their customers with their X1 technology. “Integrate at the speed of AI.” [13.40] How Rygen's Blackbird Business Intelligence is solving big data challenges for customers. “We have disparate systems, tech stacks for days, legacy systems, big monster enterprise systems, ERPs, WMS’s, TMS’s... Blackbird is an attempt to forget the bias and have an industry standard.” [15.39] A case study exploring how Rygen helped a major customer to identify and understand their biggest operational problems, and bring together their disparate systems with Corsair, improving processes, boosting visibility, and allowing them to manage their whole supply chain in one place. [18.27] Tony’s hot takes from Manifest, and what Rygen is investing in for 2025 and beyond. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to Rygen Technologies’ website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Rygen and keep up to date with the latest over LinkedIn , X (Twitter) , YouTube , and Instagram , or you can connect with Tony on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more of our special episodes filmed live at Manifest, check out 453: Driving Supply Chain Innovation with Reveel and Deposco or 455: Discover Event-Driven Platform Technology, with BlackBerry Radar .…

1
456: Reach Supply Chain Excellence, with ITS Logistics 46:23

10 weeks ago46:23

46:23

Josh Allen of ITS Logistics talks about challenges & opportunities in 2025; & how they're providing strategic capacity & smart solutions for complex needs. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [05.23] How ITS Logistics has evolved, since its inception in 1999, and the reason behind its sustainable growth. “ITS has always been about smart, customer-driven growth. No acquisitions, all organic – just explosive, consistent expansion. We’ve grown by solving real problems. Customers don’t just stay with us, they expand with us.” [07.25] An overview of ITS Logistics – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers. “Customers don’t just need capacity. They need efficiency, visibility, and control.” [09.37] The ideal client for ITS Logistics. [13.12] The biggest challenges and opportunities in the market now, and what interests Josh about the transition from Q4 2024 to Q1 2025. “Q4 was a dogfight. The demand is still soft compared to previous years and typical peak environments, and cost of spending and inventory corrections all made it tough. Q1 is now fascinating – because it’s bid season... You have a lot of carriers and logistic providers out there that are still in scramble and ‘stay-alive’ mode.” “I don’t think the market is broken. But it’s not thriving yet. So to me the question becomes: how are folks positioning for the future?” [17.21] Capacity – whether it’s a challenge or opportunity, and what companies need to be thinking about. [19.20] Why ITS coined the term ‘hybrid capacity’, what it means, and why it’s so valuable. “It’s the best of both worlds!” [21.30] The unique ITS approach – why they focus on going beyond delivering a traditional logistics service, why they invest in customer problems, and how they work with customers to deliver value where they need it most. “You’ve got to make investment in technology. It’s one thing to be able to execute – but can you communicate, can you bring visualization to the environment, can you bring nimbleness and speed? That unlocks power. We find the problems, we fix them, and we make stronger, smarter supply chains for the long run.” [26.13] How ITS Logistics’ distribution and fulfilment solutions help customers keep up with the rapidly changing e-commerce landscape. “We have a different approach… Our facilities are built for speed. We know that ecommerce moves fast – so do we.” [28.43] The technology that sits behind the ITS solutions. [33.46] A case study showing how ITS helped a retail client successfully launch a new initiative, giving them a fully functional network, technology and visibility overnight, eliminating complexity so they could focus on successfully scaling their business. [36.45] The trends shaping 2025 and what we can expect from the year ahead. “There’s an arms race going on in utilizing AI… but we have a view that might be a bit different to others…” RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to ITS Logistics’ website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with ITS Logistics and keep up to date with the latest over LinkedIn , X (Twitter) , YouTube , Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , or Vimeo , or you can connect with Josh on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to read more about logistics, check out Above the Fold: Supply Chain Logistics News (December 13, 2024) – Talking Logistics or Global Logistics Industry Expected to Expand – Material Handling & Logistics .…

1
455: Discover Event-Driven Platform Technology, with BlackBerry Radar 24:26

10 weeks ago24:26

24:26

Shannon Hamilton of BlackBerry Radar talks about the digital trends shaping 2025; tech challenges; event-driven data; and the importance of scalable solutions. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.24] An introduction to Shannon and BlackBerry Radar. “We truly believe that doing more with our partners is a value-add for our customers.” [05.50] From AI and blockchain to IoT, the big digital trends that are going to shape 2025. “Some of the trends are really about: How are we using the information, how are we connecting with partners – and how are we making it smart.” [07.23] The biggest challenges Shannon sees across the industry when it comes to technology. “How do you buy technology that meets your needs today, but is also scalable as your business grows and evolves?” [08.43] The business-level challenges standing in the way of successful tech implementations and digital transformations. [11.00] Why technology is a foundation for process optimization, the importance of focusing on integrating the right tech into our businesses, and why it’s OK to try out multiple technologies. “Piloting and testing tech is very important – there’s still a time and a place to try out some of the new things we’re seeing.” [13.02] The benefits of combining technology implementation with physical assets, and how it can drive business improvement. [16.04] BlackBerry’s Radar Asset Tracking Solution, how it works, and how it’s delivering more data for customers. “We’re seeing more and more customers get excited about the data – but they want more.” [18.57] How BlackBerry Radar pulls data together into one pane of glass, and the benefits for their customers. “We want our data to be intelligent. The last thing we want our customers to do is sift through lots of data. So we easily surface all the critical events… we make life easy.” [20.33] Why, in a climate of cost-cutting, disruption, and failing digital transformation projects, scalable technology solutions are key. [22.32] A case study showing how BlackBerry Radar helped a customer improve turn times and move assets through their lanes faster, ultimately driving operational efficiency, reducing cost, and improving revenue. [25.11] What 2025 has in store for BlackBerry Radar. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to BlackBerry Radar’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with BlackBerry Radar and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn , or you can connect with Shannon on LinkedIn . If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more from BlackBerry Radar, check out 358: Harness The Power Of Asset Tracking Engineered for Intelligence, with BlackBerry Radar , 322: Innovative Asset Tracking Made Easy, with BlackBerry Radar or read Shannon Hamilton on Authenticity and Bringing Diversity to Transportation & Logistics .…

1
454: Uncover Hidden Inefficiencies and Reveal Your True Cost-To-Serve, with 910 Advisors 54:31

11 weeks ago54:31

54:31

910 Advisors talk about cost-to-serve - the challenges, its impact on supply chain efficiency & profitability; & transforming inefficiencies into opportunities. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [06.03] Introductions to Greg, Janet, and Robert, and why Greg and Robert co-founded 910 Advisors. “So many consultancies are focused on these long-term, big-dollar transformational programs... Everyone wants to hit you with the strategy book, but no ones there to help guide you there… We make sure we have a lens towards the long-term, but also in helping companies understand what to do in three, six, nine and twelve months, in support of that three-year plan.” “So many people hire technologies to solve commercial and supply chain problems.” [13.48] An overview of 910 Advisors – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers. [16.40] The ideal client for 910 Advisors. [19.54] ‘Cost-to-serve’: What it means, why it’s so often overlooked, and why teams have a handle on their customer acquisition costs, but not ongoing ones. “Most organizations are commercially-focused first, they’re all about the customer – and rightfully so! That’s who pays the bills, and you need that focus. But, a lot of times, the back end tends to get overlooked.” “Some customers may be costing you money and you don’t necessarily realize it... What really improves your business is when you start to understand, and make decisions around, that total cost-to-serve.” [25.25] From lack of data to disparate systems, the biggest challenges in understanding up-front cost-to-serve. [26.36] The impact of that lack of understanding on a company’s supply chain efficiency. [29.17] The cost of not understanding cost-to-serve, and its impact on profitability. “It’s direct – it’s coming straight from the bottom.” [33.18] What organizations can do to better understand cost-to-serve earlier in the journey, and how they can start to build processes and workflows to manage both efficiency and cost. “You can make an improvement in one area, and it may impact another one negatively. You have to have a holistic view. Take that journey yourself – what does a day in the life of that order look like?” [35.43] The role of 910 Advisor’s tech implementations and consulting in helping customers tackle challenges and transform inefficiencies into opportunities. “We’re the master mediators!... We’re really good at taking symptoms, getting to the root cause, and applying it across the process. Most consultancies you hire to fix one thing, and they’ll fix the symptom, but they cause something else up or downstream…. We own outcomes.” “Everybody wants to talk about their technology problems. But we try to re-focus that conversation around process-first, and that will lead us to if we need to address technology issues – you may not have to if you fix the process!” [41.14] What organizations can achieve if they better understand efficiency and cost. [42.45] A case study illustrating how 910 Advisors helped a client understand their cost-to-serve, prioritize, refine their process and structure, and save money. [47.24] 910 Advisor’s special offers for Let’s Talk Supply Chain listeners. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to 910 Advisor’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with 910 Advisors and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn , or you can connect with Greg , Robert and Janet on LinkedIn.…

1
453: Driving Supply Chain Innovation with Reveel and Deposco 37:31

11 weeks ago37:31