Supply Chain Now

Supply Chain Now
  • 4.7 (116)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED DAILY

Discover why Supply Chain Now is the #1 Voice of Supply Chain. Our hosts comprised of seasoned industry-leaders, practitioners, and solution providers address the industry’s challenges, trends, and innovations for our global audience. With engaging, informative, and on-trend content, our podcasts, livestreams, and webinars bridge expertise and entertainment, empowering supply chain professionals to elevate their businesses. Listen, watch, and subscribe to the #1 Supply Chain Podcast on Apple Podcasts, ranked in the Top 1% of all Global Podcasts!

  1. 16H AGO

    Building Resilient, Innovative Supply Chains Across Africa

    Supply chains are recalibrating, and the Middle East and Africa are investing aggressively to meet the moment. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton and special guest co-host Yaseen Ahmid welcome Toby Maier, CEO for Middle East and Africa at DHL Global Forwarding, for a wide-ranging conversation on what is changing trade and logistics across the region. Toby breaks down how recent tariffs are redirecting export flows into the Middle East and Africa, why GCC countries are racing to build world-class logistics hubs, and how production is shifting from Turkey toward markets like Egypt and Morocco. They also explore what it will take to build stronger, more reliable supply chains across Africa, from investment in life sciences and healthcare infrastructure to modernized regulation that reduces delays at customs. Toby shares how DHL’s publicly announced $300 million investment through 2030 prioritizes end-to-end capability that helps medicines, vaccines, and other critical products reach communities across a fast-growing population. The conversation also tackles the practical realities of energy access, data centers, and the cost to deliver goods, plus how sustainability efforts like electrified fleets and sustainable aviation fuel can support performance and emissions goals at the same time. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (03:13) Getting to know guest Toby Maier and co-host Yaseen Ahmid (06:05) Toby’s journey in global logistics leadership (11:17) Trade shifts and what they mean for Africa (15:24) DHL’s investment focus across Africa (18:18) Infrastructure and power realities on the ground (22:50) Building efficiency and sustainability into the network (24:22) Renewable energy progress and practical pathways (26:37) What commitment to sustainability looks like at DHL (30:26) Developing talent and leadership across the continent (40:09) Why emerging markets belong on your career map Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Toby Maier: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toby-maier/Connect with Yaseen Ahmid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaseen-ahmid/Learn more about DHL Global Forwarding: https://www.dhl.com/Learn more about Luna: https://luna-resume.com/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: a href="https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now"...

    46 min

  2. 2D AGO

    The Now Generation: Perspectives on AI, Energy, and Ethical Supply Chains

    As supply chains expand across global networks, the next generation of leaders is being trained to think beyond trucks and warehouses, toward the broader constraints shaping business today. Dr. Morgan Swink, West Chair, Professor of SCM and Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Innovation at Texas Christian University’s Neeley School of Business, joins Supply Chain Now alongside three standout seniors, Ava Scotchie, Joshua Ahn, and Cort Comer, to share what they’re seeing in real time as they prepare to enter the industry. In this Now Generation conversation, Scott Luton and Dr. Swink explore what makes TCU’s supply chain program so distinctive, from high-touch faculty mentorship and curriculum that mirrors real workplace ambiguity, to site visits, case competitions, and capstone projects designed to deliver real value to companies. The students share how these experiences have shaped their confidence, career direction, and readiness to lead. They also dig into the trends these emerging professionals are watching most closely: reverse logistics and the rising cost of returns, sustainability and ethical visibility across multi-tier suppliers, and the growing energy and infrastructure demands driven by AI and data center expansion. The episode highlights how supply chain thinking is evolving, and why the leaders who can connect operations, ethics, and resource constraints will be the ones who shape what comes next. Jump into the conversation: 00:00) Intro (01:43) Spotlight on TCU’s supply chain program (02:14) Meet the student leaders of supply chain (03:32) Ava discusses her passion for supply chain (04:05) Joshua shares his global supply chain journey (04:36) Cort focuses on energy and supply chain (12:10) Dr. Swink’s vision for the program (14:26) Students discuss top supply chain trends (23:52) Career goals and making a lasting impact (26:33) Joshua on driving supply chain sustainability (28:03) Career advice for aspiring supply chain leaders (29:59) Cort on energy’s role in supply chain (38:21) Ava reflects on TCU’s hands-on learning (47:28) Building meaningful supply chain connections Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Dr. Morgan Swink: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-swink-8331ab11/Connect with Ava Scotchie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ava-scotchie,Connect with Joshua Ahn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajahn/Connect with Colt Comer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cort-comerLearn more about TCU’s Neeley School of Business: a...

    53 min

  3. 5D AGO

    The Buzz: Tariffs, Terabytes, and the Final Frontier

    Global trade policy is shifting, digital infrastructure demand is exploding, and the next frontier of supply chain operations may literally be off-planet. From tariffs to terabytes to orbiting technology, the pace of change isn’t slowing down anytime soon, welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost! In this episode, Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson break down a potential U.S.–India trade agreement and what it could mean for sourcing strategies, tariffs, and global partnerships. The conversation then turns to the rapid growth of data center infrastructure across the United States, why certain regions have become critical digital logistics hubs, and how AI is accelerating demand for computing capacity. Finally, the hosts explore a bold emerging concept: space-based data centers — and how advancements in energy efficiency, cooling, and scalability could reshape long-term supply chain strategy. Tune in to learn: What a U.S.–India trade agreement could change for tariffs and global sourcingWhy data centers are becoming core supply chain infrastructureHow AI growth is driving massive infrastructure investmentWhy Northern Virginia leads the U.S. in data center concentrationThe potential advantages of space-based data storage and processingWhat these developments signal for long-term operational strategy Whether you’re a supply chain practitioner, technology leader, strategist, or simply trying to keep pace with where operations and innovation are heading, this episode will help you connect the dots between trade policy, infrastructure investment, and the next era of global supply chains. Additional Links & Resources: Learn more about EasyPost: https://www.easypost.com/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Supply Chain Planning Reimagined: Embedded AI that senses, explains, and optimizes: https://bit.ly/4pOGgyoWEBINAR- ChatGPT Is Just the Beginning for Shipping: https://bit.ly/3YLFGq7 This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and...

    42 min

  4. FEB 11

    Solving Warehouse Execution Gaps in the SMB Market

    Warehouse operations often highlight the gap between business strategy and execution, particularly as small and mid-sized companies grow. Challenges like fulfillment pressure, inventory inaccuracies, and manual workarounds can turn warehouses into bottlenecks that hinder organizational efficiency. When teams lose confidence in their data, scaling becomes more difficult, leaving leadership reactive instead of proactive. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton speaks with Kurt Heusner, CEO of Endpoint Automation Solutions, about warehouse execution in the SMB market. Kurt discusses his experience with growth-focused businesses and emphasizes the importance of time-to-value, adoption, and simplicity over complexity. He explains how trust in systems affects team performance and why warehouses often reveal operational challenges first. The conversation also addresses ERP warehouse modules versus standalone WMS solutions as complexity grows, modular implementation approaches, the ongoing significance of barcoding, and how newer technologies fit into modernization strategies. The episode concludes with insights into Endpoint’s peer communities and grant programs designed to enhance warehouse execution without disrupting daily operations. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:36) Meet Kurt Heusner: career and insights (02:52) Kurt Heusner’s passion for music explained (04:58) Kurt's journey in SMB technology industry (06:22) Warehouse automation: SMBs’ needs and insights (10:46) Cultural impact on technology implementation (11:31) Serving SMBs: key challenges uncovered (14:56) Evolution of endpoint automation solutions explained (17:16) Modular approach to WMS for success (19:30) Final thoughts on SMB problem-solving (23:56) Experience and continuous learning in tech (24:36) The history and evolution of barcoding (26:05) Barcoding's role in modern supply chains (29:06) Integrating technologies with barcoding in operations (31:39) Signs your ERP system needs upgrading (34:05) Building trust in tech and teams (39:33) Peer communities and learning program value (43:00) Grant programs for small manufacturers explained Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Kurt Heusner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtheusner/Learn more about Endpoint Automation Solutions: https://endpointas.com/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/aboutWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: a href="https://supplychainnow.com/join"...

    47 min

  5. FEB 9

    What's New at MODEX 2026 & Why It is a Must Attend Event

    As manufacturing and supply chain industries evolve, events like MODEX 2026 are key in connecting professionals, driving innovation, and showcasing trends. With growing demands for efficiency, sustainability, and advanced tech, face-to-face gatherings offer vital opportunities to learn, compare solutions, and build relationships. MODEX stands as one of the largest platforms in North America, uniting exhibitors, educators, and live demos in a way hard to replicate elsewhere. In this episode, Scott W. Luton welcomes Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI, for a behind-the-scenes look at MODEX 2026. Daniel discusses how MHI supports the industry year-round through standards, safety, and workforce development, and why face-to-face events remain essential for learning and networking. He also previews what attendees can expect in Atlanta, including how MODEX brings together exhibitors, education, and live demos on a grand scale. They also explore what's new at MODEX 2026, April 13 to 16 at the Georgia World Congress Center, including free registration, 200+ seminars, keynotes with Richard McPhail, Salim Ismail, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., and MHI Industry Night with Jim Gaffigan. Daniel shares advice for first-timers and returning attendees, from planning meetings to carving out time for networking on the show floor. He also highlights on-site experiences to recharge and connect, including lounges, food options, and the startup spotlight. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (03:00) Golf talk with Daniel (06:28) Daniel’s role at MHI (10:22) The importance of MODEX (15:02) The evolution of MODEX (18:58) What’s new at MODEX 2026 (24:22) Industry night and special guests (26:06) Growth and exhibitors (27:08) Experiential activations and lounges (29:13) Event apps and navigation (31:04) Attendee profiles and solutions (34:24) First-time attendee tips (38:03) Returning attendee tips Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Daniel McKinnon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-mckinnon-125691/Learn more about MHI: https://www.mhi.org/Learn more about MODEX 2026: https://www.modexshow.com/Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: a href="https://supplychainnow.com/join" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    48 min

  6. FEB 6

    The Buzz: Trade Gaps and Supply Shortages

    The global supply chain landscape is shifting once again, and today, we break down the economic signals, market movements, and leadership strategies shaping what’s next. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost! Hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy dive into the latest U.S. trade data, including a widening trade deficit that highlights the growing complexity of global commerce and policy. The conversation also explores renewed momentum in the warehouse market, with signs that companies are doubling down on long-term infrastructure and capacity planning. From looming shortages in critical minerals, medical supplies, and semiconductors to rising cost pressures in 2026, this episode unpacks what supply chain leaders need to be preparing for now. The discussion continues with insights from the World Economic Forum in Davos on the challenge of scaling AI across large enterprises, revealing why technology alone isn’t enough without the right organizational design and leadership mindset. Plus, Dyci Sfregola, Founder and CEO of New Gen Architects, joins the show to share how collaboration, executive alignment, and intentional change management are key to building resilient, future-ready supply chains. If you’re navigating uncertainty, investing in innovation, and building for long-term success, this episode delivers timely insights and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss. Additional Links & Resources: EasyPost: https://www.easypost.com/National Supply Chain Day: https://streamyard.com/watch/QtED7yJ4y9qW With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-1-Feb-2026 Cycle Labs: https://bit.ly/Meet-CycleLabs-At-Manifest Trade deficit soared 94% in November and was higher than a year ago, despite tariff efforts: https://cnb.cx/45GYb2JPrologis Revenue Climbs as Warehouse Demand Rebounds: https://bit.ly/3M7kyb1Supply chain shortages: What’s at risk in 2026? https://bit.ly/Shortages-And-RisingCostsNext Level Construction Management: https://amzn.to/3LXI36lDavos 2026: Leaders on why scaling AI still feels hard - and what to do about it: https://bit.ly/3O4sMkJWhy Can’t America Train Workers for a Trillion-Dollar Industry? https://bit.ly/Education-Problem-Reverse-LogisticsConnect with Dyci on...

    52 min

  7. FEB 4

    Remade in America: A Supply Chain Now Special Feature

    Every year, Americans return nearly a trillion dollars’ worth of products. But once those items leave our hands, most of us never think about where they go—or what happens next. In Remade in America, hosted by Deborah Dull, Supply Chain Now takes listeners inside the little-known world of reverse logistics, where returned products are sorted, resold, recycled, repaired, or too often, discarded. What emerges is a complex and fragmented system struggling to capture more than $200 billion in lost value—along with critical materials that could power a more resilient, sustainable economy. This special feature explores the people, processes, and infrastructure behind returns, revealing both the challenges and the massive untapped opportunity hidden in plain sight. From outdated systems and disconnected networks to innovative approaches reshaping how products are recovered and reused, Remade in America uncovers what’s really happening after “return” is clicked. Along the way, Deborah asks a provocative question: Is “Made in America” still the right goal—or is the future about something more powerful? What if the real opportunity isn’t just making more, but making better use of what we already have? Through expert insights, real-world stories, and on-the-ground perspectives, Remade in America redefines how we think about returns, recovery, and the future of supply chains in a resource-constrained world. This is a story about waste, value, resilience—and how reimagining reverse logistics could help reshape American industry for the next generation. Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Deborah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahdull/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Supply Chain Planning Reimagined: Embedded AI that senses, explains, and optimizes: https://bit.ly/4pOGgyoWEBINAR- ChatGPT Is Just the Beginning for Shipping: https://bit.ly/3YLFGq7 This episode is hosted by Deborah Dull and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, Ric Stringer, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/remade-america-1541

    36 min

  8. FEB 2

    Building AI-Ready Operations in Advanced Manufacturing

    Operating conditions in advanced manufacturing are changing fast as organizations push to modernize operations while navigating quality requirements, long lead times, and increasingly complex supply chains. As leaders look to apply AI across the physical world, many discover that technology alone is not enough. Success depends on strong operating fundamentals, clean master data, and a culture that aligns teams around execution, accountability, and continuous improvement. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by special guest host Wiley Jones to kick off a new 2026 series, Enterprise Unleashed, powered by the DOSS team. Together, they sit down with Garuth Acharya, investor at 8090 Industries and former operator with experience across GE, SpaceX, and Blue Origin, to explore what it really takes to build AI ready operations in advanced manufacturing. The conversation examines why AI initiatives often fail in industrial environments when data hygiene is weak, and why clean, correct, actionable data and disciplined master data practices are foundational to any successful transformation. The discussion also emphasizes practical ways AI can unlock value, from accelerating work instructions to improving shortage detection, surfacing procurement anomalies, and strengthening quality feedback loops. The panel returns to the human side of transformation: mission alignment, cross functional collaboration, clear ownership, and spending time on the shop floor before deciding what to build, buy, or partner for. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (00:47) Introducing the new series for 2026 (01:32) Focus on AI-ready operations and advanced manufacturing (02:44) Special guest: Garuth Acharya (03:31) Guru's background and career journey (04:31) Rattlesnake wrestling and early career adventures (06:52) Experiences at SpaceX and Blue Origin (10:27) The importance of culture in high-stakes environments (14:59) AI in manufacturing and supply chain (20:10) Challenges and solutions in AI implementation (25:17) The importance of clean master data (26:22) Engineering and production challenges (27:26) Operational insights and red flags (29:47) Building a culture of clarity and ownership (33:35) Prioritizing modernizing operations (41:42) Advice for AI-ready operations Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Wiley Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wileycwjones/Learn more about DOSS: https://www.doss.com/Connect with Garuth Acharya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garuthacharya/Learn more about 8090 Industries: https://www.8090industries.com/Connect with Scott Luton: a...

    50 min
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4.7
out of 5
116 Ratings

About

Discover why Supply Chain Now is the #1 Voice of Supply Chain. Our hosts comprised of seasoned industry-leaders, practitioners, and solution providers address the industry’s challenges, trends, and innovations for our global audience. With engaging, informative, and on-trend content, our podcasts, livestreams, and webinars bridge expertise and entertainment, empowering supply chain professionals to elevate their businesses. Listen, watch, and subscribe to the #1 Supply Chain Podcast on Apple Podcasts, ranked in the Top 1% of all Global Podcasts!

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