Dual Source Discourse

Dr. Elouise Epstein + Sarah Scudder
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Procurement doesn’t have to be boring! Join hosts Dr. Elouise Epstein and Sarah Scudder on Dual Source Discourse, the podcast where they unpack the complexities of supply chain and procurement with a twist of humor and intellect. In each episode, Sarah brings a burning topic to the table, armed with opinions and insights, while Dr. Elouise plays devil's advocate, challenging assumptions and shedding light on alternative perspectives. From the boardroom to the warehouse floor, Dual Source Discourse dives into the big-picture issues shaping the world of supply chain management and procurement. Whether it's discussing the impacts of global trade policies, dissecting the latest technology trends, or exploring strategies for sustainable sourcing, they're here to break it down and make it accessible and entertaining. So, grab your headphones and join them as they navigate the wacky world of supply chain.

  1. The SaaSification of Everything | Dual Source Discourse #73

    11/19/2025

    The SaaSification of Everything | Dual Source Discourse #73

    HOW SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE RESHAPING CONSUMERS, COMPANIES & PROCUREMENT In this episode, Sarah and Dr. Elouise dive into the accelerating “SaaSification” of modern life — the shift toward subscription and usage-based models across consumer products, enterprise software, physical goods, and even heavy equipment. They explore how companies are monetizing everyday features, why recurring pricing has become the dominant business model, and what this means for procurement, IT, data governance, and long-term ownership. Listen in as Sarah and Dr. Elouise map out what organizations — and individuals — must prepare for as subscriptions become unavoidable across every corner of life and business. Key Points: • The Rise of Usage-Based & Subscription Pricing: From entertainment systems in cars to consulting firms shifting away from project-based billing, recurring pricing is rapidly dominating both consumer and enterprise markets. • More Tools, More Data, More Governance: As companies adopt modular, best-in-class point solutions, procurement must manage data quality, integrations, contract terms, and stakeholder trust to avoid fragmentation and duplication. • Ownership vs. Access: Software-driven hardware (cars, tractors, machinery) raises right-to-repair and IP ownership challenges, limiting consumers’ and businesses’ control over what they purchase. • Hidden Costs: Subscriptions add up quickly when visibility is poor. Without unified asset management, companies risk runaway expenses fueled by unused licenses, cloud overages, and AI consumption. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 Introduction to today’s topic: the SaaSification of our world 02:09 Reviewing an overwhelming number of personal monthly subscriptions 05:19 How SaaS models are reshaping procurement and tech stacks 07:02 The future: subscriptions for PPE, consulting, and physical goods 12:07 Data fragmentation risks increase as tool count grows 16:24 Competitive pricing pressures emerging in AI and usage-based tools 24:01 Micro-targeted utility pricing and smart meter implications 25:02 Procurement pitfall: DIY scripts create long-term maintenance issues 29:53 Importance of success narratives to justify budgets and prove ROI 33:03 Intellectual property and right-to-repair becoming major issues 38:16 Hosts plan a live end-of-year subscription cost-saving challenge Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin

    39 min
  2. Behind the Pictures | Dual Source Discourse #72

    11/11/2025

    Behind the Pictures | Dual Source Discourse #72

    STORIES FROM THE ROAD In this episode of Dual Source Discourse, Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein pull back the curtain on the candid, human side of conference season. Rather than discussing panels or presentations, they share the moments behind the photos—the unexpected encounters, travel mishaps, and serendipitous memories that make these industry events unforgettable. From chance meetings in Hawaii and Amsterdam to crafting red-branded shirts and “dog diaper” stations, this episode captures the power of relationships, community, and humor in the world of procurement and supply chain. Key Points: • Beyond the Booths: Why the real stories of conferences happen outside the main sessions. • Building Meaningful Relationships: How genuine connections can grow from professional events into lifelong friendships. • Creative Brand Visibility: How simple visual choices—like color, shoes, or pet-themed shirts—create lasting impressions. • Moments That Matter: The importance of celebrating community, laughter, and shared humanity in an industry that’s often all business. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 Sarah and Dr. Elouise return with a lighter topic to close out conference season 02:30 The untold stories surrounding conference photos 06:15 Sarah’s story about running into industry peers and family during a vacation overlap 12:50 A reflection on the power of friendships formed through professional circles 15:40 Elouise shares the chaotic fun of flying with half the procurement industry 22:10 The “Toner Queen” & Dog Diapers 32:45 Elouise’s near-disastrous Amsterdam canal story 41:10 Sarah explains Oomnitza’s branding strategy and the marketing psychology behind it 49:30 Creative takeaways from the data center conference. 55:00 Sarah closes with reflections on connection, community, and maintaining lifelong bonds Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin

    48 min
  3. Guerilla Marketing | Dual Source Discourse #71

    11/05/2025

    Guerilla Marketing | Dual Source Discourse #71

    GUERILLA MARKETING: UNCONVENTIONAL STRATEGIES THAT STICK In this episode, Sarah and Dr. Elouise dive into the art of guerilla marketing—creative, low-cost tactics designed to capture attention and drive engagement in unexpected ways. From Salesforce’s early “fake protest” campaigns to flash mobs, free pizza, and surprise hotel gifts, the hosts share real-world examples of brands and individuals who turned bold ideas into unforgettable brand moments. They explore how guerilla marketing blends psychology, creativity, and timing to achieve outsized impact—both in the B2B and consumer worlds. Tune in to learn how to think beyond traditional marketing, embrace risk, and make a lasting impression without breaking the bank. Key Points: • Low Cost, High Creativity: Guerilla marketing thrives on ingenuity over budget, relying on shock, humor, and grassroots appeal. • Real-World Examples: From Salesforce’s mock protests to “Pizza Pete’s” free pizza stunts, bold ideas leave powerful impressions. • Conference Tactics: Creative approaches like Level Path’s in-room chocolate drops demonstrate timing and targeting perfection. • Emotional Connection: Physical, analog experiences—like pizza or billboards—often resonate deeper than digital campaigns. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 Sarah and Elouise return to discuss guerilla marketing and its defining traits 03:45 Unconventional, surprising, low-cost strategies that rely on disruption and creativity 07:20 Marc Benioff’s fake protests at competitor events—a masterclass in attention-grabbing 10:45 A recruiter creates viral buzz by handing out pizzas and branded cutters at data center conferences 17:10 How spontaneous activations can amplify brand visibility at conferences 21:30 Timed chocolate and note deliveries during a competitor’s keynote steal the spotlight 29:00 A Bay Area woman’s billboard search for love becomes a viral guerilla moment 35:10 Creative booth engagement through hidden “find-and-follow” tactics 42:25 From “strategic littering” to stratosphere jumps—how Red Bull mastered guerilla spectacle 49:40 How trolling and playful competition push guerilla marketing to the next frontier Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/c8nknq Spotify: https://rb.gy/w01h4t Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin

    40 min
  4. Repost – The AI Data Center Revolution | Dual Source Discourse #70

    10/29/2025

    Repost – The AI Data Center Revolution | Dual Source Discourse #70

    FROM BUZZWORDS TO BACKBONE — A REPLAY Back by popular demand, this episode of Dual Source Discourse dives into the rapidly evolving role of data centers in 2025 and beyond. Sarah and Dr. Elouise explore how the rise of AI is transforming global infrastructure—driving unprecedented investment, innovation, and regulation. From liquid cooling and 5G integration to sustainability and decentralization, the conversation unpacks how data centers have moved from being IT’s back-office operation to a strategic backbone of supply chains, procurement, and economic growth. Key Points: • The AI Boom Is Fueling Data Center Growth: The AI revolution is pushing massive investment in data infrastructure to handle exponential increases in compute demand, data storage, and energy requirements. • Sustainability Is a Growing Priority: With soaring power consumption, the industry is embracing renewable energy, advanced cooling systems, and even nuclear options to balance growth with environmental responsibility. • Edge Computing and Decentralization Are Reshaping Architecture: Data processing is shifting closer to users through edge facilities and 5G networks, enabling real-time applications like autonomous vehicles and smart cities. • Regulatory & Community Resistance Are Rising: Environmental concerns, zoning restrictions, and data privacy debates are shaping how and where new data centers are built—forcing companies to rethink strategy and stakeholder engagement. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 Sarah recaps her company retreat and introduces the topic of data centers 04:00 AI’s role in accelerating demand for new data centers 8:31 Energy consumption becomes a top priority for analysts and operators 13:24 Discussion of sustainability, including liquid cooling and nuclear revival 17:30 Edge computing and 5G are reducing latency and decentralizing control 24:06 U.S. data center market projected to reach $112B by 2030 30:03 Rise of vertical integration, automation, and 3D printing in construction 34:01 Regulatory and privacy challenges from local protests to GDPR Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/c8nknq Spotify: https://rb.gy/w01h4t Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin

    49 min
  5. The Backlash of DEI on Everything | Dual Source Discourse #69

    10/22/2025

    The Backlash of DEI on Everything | Dual Source Discourse #69

    NAVIGATING DEI IN THE PROCUREMENT TECH SPACE (REPOST) Back by popular demand! This episode remains one of our most listened-to — and for good reason. Join Sarah and Dr. Elouise as they revisit the complex and ever-relevant topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the ProcureTech industry. In this powerful discussion, they explore how DEI continues to evolve amid political shifts and social pushback, and the tangible steps companies can take to create meaningful, inclusive supplier diversity programs. Discover why infrastructure, mentorship, and transparent communication are essential to building sustainable supplier relationships — and learn how organizations can navigate challenges while integrating DEI into hiring and procurement practices that drive real impact. Topics Discussed: • Defining DEI: The importance of clear definitions for organizational success. • Political Backlash: The current political climate's impact on DEI initiatives. • Supplier Diversity Programs: Why many fail and how to build successful ones. • Challenges for Small Businesses: Infrastructure and support needs for small diverse suppliers. • Effective Hiring Practices: Integrating DEI into recruitment and team building. • Real-World Examples: Case studies and personal experiences highlighting DEI challenges and successes. • Future of DEI: Prospects for successful DEI programs in the coming years. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 – Introduction to the episode's theme on DEI challenges in procurement tech 00:11 – Discussion on the political landscape and its impact on DEI initiatives 03:10 – Exploring the complexities of defining and implementing DEI 05:00 – Case study: Denise Young Smith's experience at Apple and its implications for DEI 09:00 – Analysis of why many supplier diversity programs fail 11:20 – Challenges faced by small diverse suppliers in supporting large enterprises 13:40 – Importance of robust infrastructure and mentorship for diverse suppliers 15:00 – Effective strategies for integrating DEI into hiring practices 17:00 – Balancing introvert-extrovert dynamics within teams 22:00 – Real-world examples of DEI challenges and successes in procurement tech 26:00 – Discussing the future of DEI programs and their potential success Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin

    38 min
  6. Important Changes to What's Working on LinkedIn | Dual Source Discourse #68

    10/15/2025

    Important Changes to What's Working on LinkedIn | Dual Source Discourse #68

    WHAT’S REALLY WORKING ON LINKEDIN RIGHT NOW In this episode of Dual Source Discourse, Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein unpack what’s actually working on LinkedIn in 2025. With algorithm updates, AI-generated content saturation, and new ad formats, the hosts explore how creators and professionals can stand out authentically. Drawing on insights from top LinkedIn strategists — Tommy Clark, Devin Reed, Simon Schmitz, and Michelle J Raymond — they reveal practical ways to grow engagement, optimize posts, and build community without getting lost in the noise. From embracing imperfection to mastering video and leveraging polls, this episode offers a practical roadmap for anyone serious about building thought leadership on LinkedIn. Key Points: • LinkedIn Algorithm Reset – Organic reach is dropping, but post lifespan and content relevance now matter more than ever. • Authenticity Over Perfection – AI-generated posts dominate feeds; small human imperfections and conversational tone build trust. • Short-Form and Video Dominate – LinkedIn now prioritizes vertical video and posts under 300 characters for higher dwell times. • Community and Conversation – Real growth comes from engagement: comments, DMs, saves, and personal posts outperform company pages. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 What’s working on LinkedIn in 2025 and why creators are frustrated with declining reach 03:15 AI-generated posts dominate LinkedIn 07:40 Long-tail visibility 10:20 Engagement rates and impressions are down 14:00 How to boost top-performing posts using LinkedIn’s paid promotion feature 18:30 Embrace imperfection 23:10 Why personal profiles outperform company pages 28:45 Relatable storytelling, simple language, and one-problem posts drive growth 37:25 Shorter posts, vertical video, and direct engagement 47:10 Use polls, LinkedIn Live, and content repurposing to extend audience reach Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/c8nknq Spotify: https://rb.gy/w01h4t Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin References: Tommy Clark Devin Reed Simon Schmitz Michelle J Raymond

    49 min
  7. French Fries | Dual Source Discourse #67

    10/01/2025

    French Fries | Dual Source Discourse #67

    BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND In this fun yet thought-provoking episode, Sarah and Dr. Elouise dive deep into the surprising complexity of French fries—from how they’re made to how they’re marketed. What starts as a lighthearted conversation quickly turns into an exploration of food supply chains, sustainability, consumer cost, and shifting health priorities in the U.S. They explore Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s stance on seed oils, Steak ‘n Shake’s switch to beef tallow, and the hidden realities behind how French fries are really produced and distributed. With references to fast food giants like McDonald’s, In-N-Out, and even Pizza Hut, the episode highlights how seemingly small changes ripple through the procurement world. The duo also reflect on the growing power of informed consumers, thanks to tools like Gemini and NotebookLM. Key Points: • French Fries as a Lens into Supply Chain Complexity: What we eat is often the result of multi-step, global supply chains—changing one part requires rethinking the whole. • Cost Implications of Health-Conscious Changes: Healthier ingredients often mean higher costs, raising equity questions for families and food providers. • Sustainability and Packaging Waste: Frozen fry distribution creates massive packaging waste, sparking debates on biodegradable alternatives like mushroom-based packaging. • Consumer Access to Data is Reshaping Influence: AI tools and social media give consumers power to uncover, understand, and shape narratives around food and sustainability. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 Introduction and upcoming travel plans for Sarah and Dr. Elouise 01:54 Why this might be their favorite episode title yet: “French Fry” 02:50 The connection between fries, health, the environment, and procurement 04:15 Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s push against seed oils in fried foods 05:10 Steak 'n Shake’s switch to beef tallow: what it really means 06:22 Supply chain realities: fries are pre-fried in seed oil before restaurant delivery 07:55 Vegetarian/vegan concerns with beef tallow and ethical sourcing 08:45 Food cost concerns for the average American family 09:50 In-N-Out’s simplified, onsite fry process vs. mass-production models 11:05 Rising scrutiny of preservatives, dyes, and shelf-stability in food 12:20 What McDonald's fry uniformity says about branding and sustainability 14:30 Reflection on Pizza Hut’s fall: how production method shifts affect taste 15:45 Sustainable packaging debate: biodegradable vs. reusable 17:00 IKEA’s mushroom packaging experiment and challenges like odor 18:20 Packaging waste from McDonald’s fry deliveries: scale and disposal 19:55 How AI tools like Gemini enabled this research and episode 22:00 The growing power of consumers and social media to influence brand behavior 26:30 Final thoughts and call for comments: What’s your favorite kind of fry? Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/c8nknq Spotify: https://rb.gy/w01h4t Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin

    28 min
  8. The AI Content Revolution | Dual Source Discourse #66

    09/24/2025

    The AI Content Revolution | Dual Source Discourse #66

    AI IN CONTENT CREATION: MARKETING & PROCUREMENT PERSPECTIVES In this episode, Sarah and Dr. Elouise dive into the role of AI in content creation and its impact on marketing and procurement. Sarah shares insights from her perspective as a marketer actively using AI to generate campaigns, while Elouise brings her lens as a heavy consumer of AI-generated content. Together, they discuss the opportunities and challenges of adopting AI tools, from improving efficiency and creativity to grappling with issues of authenticity, originality, and trust. They explore how AI can be applied to storytelling, thought leadership, and procurement-specific content, offering a balanced view of what’s possible today—and what to watch out for tomorrow. Key Points: • AI as a Dual Force: How marketers are using AI to create content and how buyers/consumers are engaging with it. • Efficiency vs. Authenticity: The tension between faster output and maintaining originality and human connection. • Applications in Procurement: Opportunities for AI in sourcing insights, supplier communication, and thought leadership. • Future Outlook: Why adaptability and discernment are essential as AI tools evolve and reshape industries. ✨Highlights✨ 00:00 Introduction: why AI is becoming relevant to every career path 05:02 Personal vs. work use of ChatGPT and how people apply it differently 09:59 Setting the stage: the premise of today’s conversation on AI in content 15:10 Realization: so much modern content online is AI-created 20:08 Dr.Elouise notes YouTube as a major source of AI-generated media 25:41 Structuring AI outputs into usable Q&A formats for clarity 30:14 AI tools generating “10 best” recommendations and their implications 35:13 Using AI effectively when ramping up or launching new initiatives 40:24 The risk of all content sounding the same due to overuse of AI 45:25 Wrap-up and preview of the next episode Please make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode and, as always, submit questions and topics suggestions for future podcasts ⁠⁠here: https://shorturl.at/PbNi6 Follow us on YouTube for episode video recordings: https://rb.gy/t5hbw8 Hosts: Sarah Scudder and Dr. Elouise Epstein Producer: Sabrina Mougin

    46 min
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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Procurement doesn’t have to be boring! Join hosts Dr. Elouise Epstein and Sarah Scudder on Dual Source Discourse, the podcast where they unpack the complexities of supply chain and procurement with a twist of humor and intellect. In each episode, Sarah brings a burning topic to the table, armed with opinions and insights, while Dr. Elouise plays devil's advocate, challenging assumptions and shedding light on alternative perspectives. From the boardroom to the warehouse floor, Dual Source Discourse dives into the big-picture issues shaping the world of supply chain management and procurement. Whether it's discussing the impacts of global trade policies, dissecting the latest technology trends, or exploring strategies for sustainable sourcing, they're here to break it down and make it accessible and entertaining. So, grab your headphones and join them as they navigate the wacky world of supply chain.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Elouise Epstein + Sarah Scudder
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    74