Tao of Pizza Podcast

Mark Hiddleson
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  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

This is the Tao of Pizza where we feature top logistics leaders, and entrepreneurs and share their inspiring stories with a holistic twist.

  1. Jul 6

    Modernizing Moving, Warehousing, and Supply Chain Logistics With Megan Smith

    Megan Smith is the Founder of PACKgistics, a logistics-driven moving and storage company that provides enterprise-grade warehouse relocations for operators. She is also Managing Director of Ray The Mover, a Naples, Florida moving and storage company. With over two decades of experience in warehousing and distribution, Megan has led high-growth organizations spanning logistics, warehousing, moving, and storage. Before founding PACKgistics, she spent two decades as CEO of Symbia Logistics, where she scaled the company from a regional warehouse provider into a multistate 3PL powerhouse serving Fortune-level brands, omnichannel retailers, and large-scale fulfillment operations. In this episode… The moving, warehousing, and logistics industries are changing fast, but many companies still rely on outdated processes, fragmented communication, and reactive planning. How can companies modernize relocation and supply chain operations without losing sight of people, service, and execution? With expertise in supply chain entrepreneurship, warehousing, and relocation strategy, Megan Smith's answer is to approach logistics as an end-to-end customer experience. She suggests reducing downtime during warehouse moves by planning around inventory flow, protecting top-performing SKUs, and keeping fulfillment moving even during transitions. Megan also emphasizes investing in people, training, equipment, and customer-facing technology, including AI tools that support follow-up, lead tracking, and service consistency. These strategies help companies create smoother moves, stronger teams, and more reliable operations. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, Mark Hiddleson chats with Megan Smith, Founder of PACKgistics and Managing Director of Ray The Mover, about modernizing moving, warehousing, and logistics. Megan discusses omnichannel fulfillment, reducing downtime during warehouse moves, and using AI to improve customer communication.

    56 min

  2. Jun 1

    Why Supply Chain Leaders Are Key To Solving Systemic Business Challenges With C.J. Nord

    C.J. Nord is the Founder of Supply Chains for Good, an organization that applies supply chain expertise to social impact, public safety, family prosperity, and circular-economy challenges. With nearly 30 years of experience running manufacturing supply chains, she has collaborated with government and private entities to avert major supply chain disruptions and support public safety. C.J. has also created initiatives such as "There's Cash in that Trash" and has engaged in advocacy work addressing racially biased law-enforcement training targets. In this episode… Supply chain leaders do more than move products — they solve the hidden systems problems that shape businesses, communities, and everyday life. When waste, regulation, education gaps, or infrastructure breakdowns threaten progress, the right operational mindset can turn those challenges into opportunities. How can supply chain thinking help solve problems far beyond the warehouse? C.J. Nord suggests treating the supply chain as a practical tool for protecting people, strengthening businesses, and building effective systems. As a manufacturing and supply chain leader, she encourages professionals to look for root causes, use data before accepting regulations or assumptions, and design circular systems around profit instead of penalties. Start with the problem, bring the right partners to the table, and build solutions where every stakeholder has a reason to say yes. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, Mark Hiddleson chats with C.J. Nord, Founder of Supply Chains for Good, about using supply chain expertise to create social and economic impact. C.J. discusses her "There's Cash in That Trash" initiative, turning wood waste into bioenergy, and why supply chain leaders need a bigger role in preventing disruption.

    1h 9m

  3. May 4

    The Power of Intentional Networking in Supply Chain and Logistics With Katie Date

    Katie Date is the Senior Vice President of Industry Relations and Strategic Initiatives at Manifest, which was acquired by Hyve, where she builds strategic partnerships, drives event growth, and shapes industry-relevant content for the global supply chain community. She spent over a decade at the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, where she led industrial relations, executive education programs, and global collaboration across the SCALE network. With more than 20 years of experience across the supply chain ecosystem, Katie advocates for gender diversity and inclusion in the industry.  In this episode… What does it take to build meaningful connections in a fast-moving, tech-driven industry? In a field flooded with automation, events, and digital outreach, standing out — and building trust — can feel daunting. So how can professionals cut through the noise and create lasting relationships? It starts with being intentional about relationships, says Katie Date, a supply chain leader with experience in industry collaboration and research. She emphasizes quality over quantity by targeting the right people rather than taking a "spray and pray" approach to outreach. Katie also recommends cultivating both sponsors (who advocate for you when you're not in the room) and mentors (who support your day-to-day growth), while following through consistently to build trust. Meaningful relationships are built through authenticity, clarity, and long-term thinking. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, Mark Hiddleson talks with Katie Date, SVP of Industry Relations and Strategic Initiatives at Manifest, a Hyve Group company, to discuss building meaningful relationships in the supply chain industry. Katie shares her journey into the industry, how intentional networking drives outcomes, and key lessons from her research on women in leadership.

    47 min

  4. Apr 6

    Carrier Vetting Best Practices: How To Protect Your Freight From Fraud With Danielle Spinelli

    Danielle Spinelli is the Director of Partnerships at GenLogs, a logistics technology company that helps brokers, carriers, and shippers combat fraud and improve supply chain visibility. With over a decade of experience in the logistics industry, she has experience in carrier vetting, compliance, and cargo theft prevention. Before joining GenLogs, Danielle spent eight years as a carrier sales broker. She is also the host of the Tell Me Everything podcast, where she educates and connects professionals across the supply chain while raising awareness about fraud trends. In this episode… Fraud in logistics isn't just about stolen goods anymore — it's evolving into something far more sophisticated and difficult to detect. With bad actors becoming more strategic and technology advancing rapidly, even experienced professionals can struggle to keep up. How can companies stay ahead when the rules keep changing? According to fraud-prevention and carrier-vetting expert Danielle Spinelli, it starts with combining human intuition and technology. Relying solely on automation is a mistake. Instead, teams should combine tools with genuine conversations, such as calling drivers to validate legitimacy. Building strong relationships and maintaining transparency with partners can also reduce risk when issues arise. Additionally, using layered verification methods — like checking VIN-level data and monitoring behavioral patterns — helps uncover red flags that basic checks might miss. A proactive, relationship-driven approach strengthens both security and operations. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, Mark Hiddleson talks with Danielle Spinelli, Director of Partnerships at GenLogs and the host of Tell Me Everything, about combating modern logistics fraud. Danielle shares evolving fraud tactics and verification methods, the importance of relationships and transparency in brokerage, and how integrating multiple data sources improves visibility and risk prevention.

    42 min

  5. Mar 2

    Building Connections and Community in the Supply Chain Space With Nathan Chaney

    Nathan Chaney is the Founder of Supply Chaney, a media, marketing, and consulting firm for supply chain companies. He also leads the Supply Chain Social Club to foster collaboration and growth within the supply chain industry. Previously, Nathan held roles across 3PL operations, corporate supply chain leadership, and autonomous transportation. In this episode… Can supply chain operations translate into effective media and networking strategies? Logistics professionals often work behind the scenes, but how can they create a platform that fosters collaboration and engagement across the industry? According to supply chain and logistics networking professional Nathan Chaney, the answer lies in leveraging skills from across the business to create a network that connects and educates industries. He maintains that virtual networking platforms can democratize connections and provide equal access to industry events, no matter the participant's location or budget. Supply chain professionals have unique skill sets that can be applied in unexpected areas, like media and marketing, to expand their influence. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, Mark Hiddleson chats with Nathan Chaney, Founder of Supply Chaney, about how professionals can create impactful networking opportunities. Nathan discusses the importance of improving operational efficiencies in media, how students can gain hands-on logistics experience, and how the Supply Chain Social Club connects professionals globally.

    35 min

  6. Feb 2

    How To Optimize Warehouse Space With Modern Racking and Mezzanine Systems With Mark Hiddleson

    Mark Hiddleson is the Owner of Specialized Storage Solutions, Inc., a nationwide logistics company with industry-leading warehouse storage solutions. It provides clients with innovative products, facility layouts, and designs to optimize their logistics operations. With several decades of service experience in the warehousing and logistics industry, Mark has held leadership roles in several professional industry organizations. Using a holistic approach, he also has experience in equipment material handling, operations management, supply chain optimization, professional development, and public speaking. In this episode… Warehouses are growing taller, denser, and more complex as real estate costs rise and supply chains demand faster fulfillment. Behind every efficient distribution center is a carefully engineered storage system designed to maximize space and improve workflow. What strategies allow businesses to store more while working smarter? According to warehouse racking and storage expert Mark Hiddleson, it starts with understanding how products move in and out of your facility. Companies should match their rack type to inventory volume, SKU turnover, and picking needs. Mark suggests using selective pallet racks for accessibility, drive-in or pushback racks for higher-density storage, and gravity-fed case flow for faster order picking. The key is designing systems that balance space efficiency with operational flexibility. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, John Corcoran of Rise25 interviews Mark Hiddleson, Owner of Specialized Storage Solutions, Inc., about warehouse racking strategies for maximizing space. Mark discusses the basics of pallet racks, the advantages of pushback and drive-in systems, and how mezzanines and case flow improve storage density and picking efficiency.

    34 min

  7. 12/29/2025

    The Hidden Cost of Poor 3PL Matching for Growing eCommerce Brands With Matt Hertz

    Matt Hertz is the Founder and CEO of Third Person, a digital marketplace that uses AI to help e-commerce brands connect with third-party logistics (3PL) partners. He is also the Founder of Second Marathon, a consulting company that has helped brands like Walmart, PacSun, and Milk Bar optimize their supply chains. As a seasoned e-commerce and supply chain professional, Matt has over 15 years of experience leading operations at companies, including Rent the Runway and Birchbox. In this episode… Finding the right fulfillment partner can make or break an e-commerce business, yet the logistics industry is crowded, complex, and often opaque. Brands and 3PL companies often struggle with mismatched expectations, inefficient processes, and missed opportunities for alignment. How can these companies cut through the noise and build mutually beneficial partnerships? According to supply chain consultant Matt Hertz, fruitful partnerships begin with clarity; brands and logistics providers must define their needs and strengths before becoming partners. He encourages 3PL companies to say no to poor-fit clients, focus on a clear niche, and build operational discipline, while brands should prioritize fit over reputation or scale. This helps reduce friction and create long-term, scalable relationships. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, Mark Hiddleson and Dr. Jeremy Weisz chat with Matt Hertz, Founder and CEO of Third Person, about improving fulfillment partnerships in a fragmented logistics market. Matt shares how AI-driven matchmaking works, why 3PLs must define a clear ideal customer profile, and how curated, small-scale events outperform large trade shows.

    47 min

  8. 12/11/2025

    Leading With Values in the Age of AI With Kevin Clark

    Kevin Clark is the President and Federation Leader at Content Evolution, a global federation of companies and professionals. Before Content Evolution, he served as the Director of Brand and Values Experience at IBM, where he stewarded the company's ThinkPad notebook computers. Kevin holds multiple board and advisory positions and is the co-author of several books and journal articles on collective intelligence and human interaction.  In this episode… With technology evolving, many organizations struggle to keep their people, purpose, and innovation aligned. As automation and AI reshape entire industries, leaders must maintain human connection and sound judgment. How can businesses adapt while staying true to their core values? According to leadership and brand expert Kevin Clark, the key lies in aligning values, character, and competence to achieve lasting growth. Organizations must nurture judgment and humanity even as AI becomes more capable, turning technology into a tool that amplifies rather than replaces human insight. Kevin also urges leaders to intentionally schedule personal time to fuel creativity and prevent burnout, helping them make smarter, more purposeful decisions. In this episode of The Tao of Pizza Podcast, Mark Hiddleson chats with Kevin Clark, President and Federation Leader at Content Evolution, about blending human values with innovation. Kevin discusses his 3V model of Values, Value, and Valuation, what he learned from leading the ThinkPad brand at IBM, and how AI can inspire creativity and collective intelligence.

    57 min
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About

This is the Tao of Pizza where we feature top logistics leaders, and entrepreneurs and share their inspiring stories with a holistic twist.

Information

  • Creator
    Mark Hiddleson
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    68
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Tao of Pizza Podcast (c) 2022
  • Show Website
    Tao of Pizza Podcast