Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™

Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research
  • 5.0 (2)
  • BUSINESS

Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ explores the strategies, challenges, and opportunities that define today’s supply chains through biweekly conversations with industry leaders on the critical role supply chains play in business success. ________________ Hosted by Donna Palumbo, Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Research at Penn State, and Tom Nightingale, Chief Executive Officer of MNC Transportation, Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ brings you engaging conversations with top industry leaders, including many Penn State alumni, who share firsthand insights on how supply chains shape resilient, agile, and thriving organizations.  From planning and procurement to logistics, manufacturing, and distribution, this podcast explores the full spectrum of supply chain functions and the leaders driving them forward. Whether navigating periods of growth or overcoming disruption, you’ll discover how strong supply chain strategies fuel business performance.  New episodes are released every other Wednesday and are available on all major podcast streaming platforms, as well as on the Center for Supply Chain Research website. 

  1. APR 29

    Exploring Armada’s Recipe for Resilience & High-Performing Teams with Kim Hadlum, VP of Inventory Planning at Armada Supply Chain Solutions

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Kim Hadlum, Vice President of Inventory Planning at Armada Supply Chain Solutions, to explore her journey from fashion retail to leading inventory planning for the restaurant industry. Kim discusses the unique supply chain challenges in food service, the importance of adaptability and collaboration, and how technology and innovation drive efficient assured supply. She shares insights on building high-performing teams, the value of mentorship, and practical advice for early-career professionals looking to make their mark in supply chain management. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on career development, cross-industry learnings, and the evolving landscape of inventory planning. Takeaways: Kim's career transition from fashion retail to supply chain solutions in the restaurant space Unique challenges of food service supply chains compared to other industries The importance of being a problem solver with strong communication and relationship-building skills Armada's 20-year partnership with Penn State Smeal's Center for Supply Chain Research Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Kim Hadlum is the Vice President of Inventory Planning for Armada Supply Chain Solutions. In this role, Kim leads Armada's Demand Planning, Supply Planning, and Planning Analytics and Capabilities functions to drive efficient assured supply for clients in the restaurant space. With over 20 years of supply chain experience, Kim has held roles of increasing responsibility, driving inventory focused solutions that leverage technology, innovation, collaboration, and planning expertise both domestically and internationally. In addition to her Armada experience, Kim has a depth of planning leadership experience in the retail sector. Kim leads a team of 40+ individuals and has a demonstrated history of success in mentoring and development that spans beyond her own area of responsibility. Kim holds a bachelor's degree from The Pennsylvania State University and is Armada's liaison to Penn State's Center for Supply Chain Research. She currently resides in western Pennsylvania with her family.

    23 min

  2. APR 15

    Inside PepsiCo’s Supply Chain Command Center with Brad Rogers, Supply Chain Planning Director at PepsiCo

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Brad Rogers, Supply Chain Planning Director at PepsiCo, to discuss his leadership of the Supply Chain Command Center, the transformative role of AI in supply chain operations, and his passion for mentoring the next generation of supply chain professionals. Brad shares insights from his 17+ years at PepsiCo, explaining how predictive risk assessment tools proactively mitigate disruptions and safeguard service levels. He emphasizes the importance of networking as a strategic skill and offers wisdom on career development, encouraging students to focus on becoming the best version of themselves rather than just listing achievements. Takeaways: The role of PepsiCo's Supply Chain Command Center in crisis management and network visibility How AI and predictive analytics are revolutionizing supply chain planning Brad's doctoral research on Agentic AI and how autonomous agents could revolutionize supply chain decision-making Networking as a strategic toolkit for students and recent graduates Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Brad Rogers is a supply chain executive with over 17 years of Fortune 50 experience, specializing in network strategy, risk management, and business continuity. Currently serving as a Supply Chain Planning Director at PepsiCo, Brad leads the Supply Chain Command Center for PBNA North Division. The department oversees end-to-end network visibility and orchestrated crisis management for PepsiCo Beverages North America. In this role, he pioneered the use of predictive risk assessment tools to proactively mitigate supply disruptions and safeguard service levels during peak demand periods.  Previously, Brad served as Senior Manager of Network Strategy, where he steered a multibillion-dollar supply chain redesign initiative aimed at consolidating nodes and increasing resilience across the U.S. network. His strategic approach is grounded in deep operational experience; he has successfully turned around underperforming distribution centers, managed complex manufacturing co-op partnerships, and led Lean Six Sigma initiatives that drove double-digit improvements in efficiency and cost savings.  A proud member of the Nittany Lion community, Brad holds an MBA in Supply Chain Management from Penn State and actively mentors incoming students in the program. He is currently bridging the gap between industry and academia as a DBA candidate at Fairfield University. His doctoral research focuses on the emergence of "Agentic AI", investigating how autonomous AI agents can be implemented to enhance supply chain planning and decision-making resilience.

    19 min

  3. APR 1

    Uniting People, Process & Technology with Ron Walters, Director of Digital Technology at Collins Aerospace

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Ron Walters, Director of Digital Technology at Collins Aerospace (an RTX business), to explore the intersection of supply chain management and digital transformation. Ron shares insights from his 25+ years of Fortune 500 experience and military service, discussing how AI, automation, and advanced analytics are reshaping supply chain visibility and operational performance. He explains the commonalities across industries, from military to aviation, that all supply chain professionals can apply, and offers practical advice on successfully transforming complex supply chain processes through digital adoption. Listeners will gain valuable perspective on building supply chain resilience, understanding technology use cases, and preparing for the evolving landscape of the next 5-10 years. Takeaways: Ron's career journey from Army Intelligence Officer to leading digital transformation at Fortune 500 companies How digital transformation, AI, and automation are fundamentally reshaping supply chain visibility Practical strategies for transforming complex supply chain processes through digital adoption Advice for supply chain professionals and students on building careers at the intersection of technology and operations Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Ron Walters is an accomplished operations and technology leader with over 25 years of Fortune 500 industry experience. He has held leadership roles in manufacturing, supply chain, strategic sourcing, and IT business transformation at globally recognized companies, including General Electric, Black & Decker, Ingersoll Rand, and Trane Technologies. Currently, Ron serves as Director of Digital Technology at Collins Aerospace (an RTX company), where he plays a critical role in aligning technology strategy with business objectives, driving efficiencies, and enabling enterprise-wide digital initiatives. Before his current role, he served as Director of Supply Chain Technology and Systems, leading digital transformation efforts across the company's global supply chain and leveraging advanced technologies to enhance visibility, automation, and operational performance. With a deep background in digital transformation, Ron specializes in leveraging digital applications, AI, automation, and advanced analytics to enhance efficiency, streamline enterprise processes, and drive digital adoption. He actively shares insights on digital ecosystems, supply chain resilience, and emerging technology trends through industry engagements, professional collaborations, and his passion of mentoring employees and students. Prior to his corporate career, Ron served five years as an Intelligence and Reconnaissance Officer in the U.S. Army. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Penn State, an MBA from Indiana University Kelley School of Business, and a graduate certificate in Digital Transformation for Senior Executives from The Wharton School.

    26 min

  4. MAR 18

    From Garage to Global: Chieh Huang on Building Boxed and Launching Pelgo

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Chieh Huang, founder of Boxed and CEO of Pelgo, to explore his journey from shipping toilet paper out of his parents' garage to leading a publicly traded e-commerce company and now building an AI-powered workforce platform. Chieh shares the operational engineering behind making unit economics work on low-margin, high-volume items, his early adoption of autonomous guided vehicles in fulfillment centers, and the evolution from pure automation to human-machine collaboration. Listeners will gain actionable insights on balancing cutting-edge technology with operational reality, preparing teams for rapid change, and leading with humor, humility, and perseverance in today's dynamic supply chain landscape. Takeaways: The operational engineering behind making unit economics work on low-margin, high-volume e-commerce items Early adoption and evolution of autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) and the balance between automation and human flexibility Pelgo's mission to retrain workers for AI-forward roles and the potential for gamifying frontline supply chain work Cultural leadership lessons from Boxed, including employee education benefits and building anti-micromanagement teams Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Chieh Huang is a Co-founder and the CEO of Pelgo. Prior to Pelgo, Chieh was the President of the World Economic Forum's Global Collaboration Village. Throughout his career, Chieh has founded and led both public and private companies. He was the CEO of Astro Ape, an early pioneer in mobile social gaming later acquired by Zynga. During his time at Zynga, Huang led Zynga Mobile's New York studio, which produced one of the company's first homegrown, chart-topping mobile games. He was also a co-founder and the CEO of Boxed, an NYSE listed online retailer, and Spresso, an AI-powered pricing optimization company acquired by Blackrock. Before his days as an entrepreneur, Huang was a corporate attorney at a leading law firm after attending The Johns Hopkins University and Fordham Law School. Huang currently serves on the Board of Six Flags, the world's largest regional theme park operator and has also served on several non-profit boards, including New York Cares and The Museum of Chinese in America. Chieh also serves on the Advisory Board for Mclaren Racing, with entries in Formula 1, Indycar and WEC. Huang's personal honors include being named to Bloomberg's "50 people to watch", Crain's "40 Under 40", Goldman Sachs' list of "100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs" and Entrepreneur Magazine's "The 50 Most Daring Entrepreneurs." People Magazine profiled Chieh for their "American Dream" series, tracking his growth from humble beginnings to leading industry-changing initiatives like the Pink Tax and college tuition reimbursement. You can also catch more of him at TED.com delivering a talk about his lifelong battle against micromanagers.

    27 min

  5. MAR 4

    When Supply Chains Save Lives: Inside ALAN's Disaster Response with Kathy Fulton, Executive Director of the American Logistics Aid Network

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Kathy Fulton, Executive Director of the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN), to explore how supply chain expertise saves lives during disasters. Kathy shares her journey from IT leadership at Saddle Creek Logistics Services to building ALAN's Supply Chain Intelligence Center, which predicts disaster impacts and coordinates relief efforts. She discusses the evolution from responding to three major events annually to managing constant mobilizations, her 2023 testimony before the U.S. Senate Budget Committee on climate change impacts, and strategies for building supply chain resilience. Listeners will gain insights on humanitarian logistics, disaster preparedness, and how private sector professionals can leverage their skills for meaningful impact beyond efficiency metrics. Takeaways: The transition from commercial logistics to humanitarian supply chain leadership Building predictive systems for disaster response coordination Supply chain resilience strategies for climate-related disruptions How logistics professionals can contribute expertise to disaster relief efforts Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Kathy Fulton is the Executive Director of American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN), focusing on the critical role industry expertise can play in disaster relief. She leads the organization in delivering logistics and supply chain assessment, coordination, and education to support responsible disaster relief. Kathy has served on national workgroups focused on efficient coordination of logistics activities during disasters, including those hosted by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, the Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Research Board, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, and the National Emergency Management Association. In 2023, Kathy was invited to testify before the U.S. Senate Committee on the Budget on the impact of climate change on supply chains and in 2019 she was named a Supply Chain Rainmaker by DC Velocity Magazine. Prior to joining ALAN, Kathy served as senior manager of information technology services at Saddle Creek Logistics Services, where she led IT infrastructure implementation and support, corporate systems, and business continuity planning. She holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Northwestern State University of Louisiana and dual master's degrees in business administration and management information systems from the University of South Florida.

    29 min

  6. FEB 18

    From Support Function to Strategic Partner in Pharma Procurement with Elena Polansky, Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Elena Polansky, Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners and former Chief Procurement Officer and Vice President of Global Sourcing & Procurement at BioMarin Pharmaceutical, to explore the evolution of procurement from a support function to a strategic value-engine. Elena shares insights from her 25-year career, including over 20 years at Pfizer where she delivered more than $1 billion in cumulative savings. She discusses navigating hidden costs in global sourcing, from geopolitical volatility to regulatory complexities, and the unique procurement challenges within life sciences. Elena also emphasizes the power of curiosity, asking smart questions, and staying open to feedback as essential traits for success in today's dynamic supply chain landscape. Takeaways: Procurement's transformation into a strategic business driver Managing hidden costs and risks in global pharmaceutical sourcing The role of innovation and technology in modern procurement The importance of curiosity and continuous learning Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Elena Polansky is a results-driven executive and strategic advisor with more than two decades of experience transforming procurement, operations, and organizational culture across global enterprises. As the Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners, she focuses on unlocking value through procurement transformation, supplier ecosystem optimization, and strategic advisory support. Her work centers on helping organizations evolve with clarity, confidence, and measurable impact. Before launching Somerset Solutions, Elena served as Chief Procurement Officer and Vice President of Global Sourcing & Procurement at BioMarin Pharmaceutical, where she established a centralized global sourcing function. Under her leadership, the team harmonized tools and processes, strengthened sourcing capabilities, and exceeded savings targets. Elena spent 20 years at Pfizer, advancing through multiple senior leadership roles in Global Sourcing and Global Supply. She delivered more than $1 billion in cumulative savings across direct and indirect categories and led the Internal Medicines External Supply organization, overseeing a global network of 50+ contract manufacturers producing 1,500+ SKUs. Her leadership ensured supply continuity, quality, and agility across diverse and highly regulated supply ecosystems. Elena began her career in consulting, leading strategy development, technology implementations, and change management initiatives for clients in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. At Andersen, she executed ERP implementations and software selection engagements; at Proxicom, she shaped digital strategy for a global bank and led the design of an internal knowledge management platform that improved collaboration and firm-wide efficiency. Elena is a proud Penn State alumna, holding a BS in Business Logistics and International Business from the Smeal College of Business. She resides in New Jersey with her husband—also a Penn State graduate—their two children, and their two dogs.

    27 min

  7. FEB 4

    Building Customer-Centric 3PL Operations with Alex Habbaz, CEO and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Alex Habbaz, Owner and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers, to explore the evolving world of third-party logistics and warehousing. Alex shares insights from over two decades of building a customer-first 3PL operation in the competitive New Jersey port area, discussing how Fleet Distribution Centers maintains its position as a provider of choice for household-name brands. He addresses the real-world impacts of tariffs and port strikes on operations, emphasizing the importance of agility and communication during periods of disruption. Alex explores the growing demand for value-added services in warehousing and how customer needs continue to shape the industry. Looking ahead, he discusses the role of automation in warehouse operations, challenging the misconception that technology replaces workers rather than enhancing their capabilities. Whether discussing competitive differentiation or the future of warehouse technology, Alex's perspective offers practical wisdom for building resilient, people-centered logistics operations. Takeaways: Strategies for maintaining competitive advantage in the 3PL space Navigating business disruption from tariffs and port strikes The evolution of value-added services in modern warehousing How automation enhances rather than replaces warehouse teams Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Alex Habbaz is the Owner and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers, a New Jersey–based third-party logistics and warehousing company serving brands across apparel, consumer goods, and specialty retail.  He built Fleet with a simple idea: strong logistics isn’t just about moving product—it’s about building systems, people, and meaningful partnerships.  Alex leads a high-volume operation focused on warehousing, fulfillment, inventory management, and EDI integration. He is known for modernizing warehouse operations through smart use of technology, automation, and process design, while keeping people at the center of everything he builds.  A proud Penn State alum, Alex graduated in 2000 and remains deeply connected to the university and its community. He regularly engages with education-focused initiatives and leadership programs tied to student and alumni development.  Beyond operations, Alex works closely with clients on strategy, growth, and scalability—helping companies design logistics models that can grow with them. His leadership philosophy is built around accountability, developing people, and building systems that make the business better tomorrow than it is today.  Outside of business, Alex is active in community leadership, youth sports, and education-focused initiatives. Whether coaching, mentoring, or serving on nonprofit and community boards, he brings the same mindset everywhere: invest in people, raise standards, and build for the long term.

    19 min

  8. JAN 28

    Punching Above Your Weight: Navigating Change in the Trucking Industry with Joe Morrissey, President of Groendyke Transport, Inc.

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Joe Morrissey, President of Groendyke Transport, Inc., to explore the evolving landscape of trucking and logistics. Joe shares insights from his 40+ years in the industry, discussing the critical challenges facing transportation today, from driver retention and operational costs to technological integration. Drawing from his extensive career across marquee companies, Joe emphasizes the power of mentorship and authentic leadership in building high-trust cultures that drive operational excellence. He offers practical advice for navigating industry volatility while maintaining agility in high-pressure environments. Joe also discusses his work with the Florida Trucking Association and the importance of advocacy in shaping the future of transportation. Whether you're a seasoned executive or aspiring professional, Joe's perspective provides invaluable guidance for leading in today's dynamic supply chain landscape. Takeaways: Navigating the primary challenges of the modern trucking industry Leadership strategies for building trust and operational agility The impact of mentorship on career development Career advice for the next generation of logistics professionals Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Joe Morrissey is President of Groendyke Transport, Inc., a well-respected 93 year old bulk trucking company based in Enid, OK, and Vice Chairman of the Florida Trucking Association, a premier state trucking association. With more than 40 years of domestic and international experience, Joe has led across transportation and logistics, chemical, and technology companies, with a career-long focus on strategic sourcing, supply chain optimization, and delivering exceptional value through operational excellence.  An accomplished senior executive, Joe brings hands-on leadership experience spanning sales and marketing, service delivery, operations, safety, strategic planning, logistics, and procurement. Prior to joining Groendyke, he held senior leadership roles including President and CEO of CTL Transportation, Vice President of Commercial Services at Schneider National Bulk Carriers, and executive positions with ChemConnect (now Intercontinental Exchange), RubberNetwork (now Elemica), and Chemical Leaman Tank Lines (now Quality Carriers).  A Philadelphia area native, Joe’s career has taken him to 7 states, and he is currently primarily based in Tampa. Joe is a proud graduate of Penn State University holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain and Information Systems. He also earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Wilmington (DE) University.

    30 min
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Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ explores the strategies, challenges, and opportunities that define today’s supply chains through biweekly conversations with industry leaders on the critical role supply chains play in business success. ________________ Hosted by Donna Palumbo, Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Research at Penn State, and Tom Nightingale, Chief Executive Officer of MNC Transportation, Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ brings you engaging conversations with top industry leaders, including many Penn State alumni, who share firsthand insights on how supply chains shape resilient, agile, and thriving organizations.  From planning and procurement to logistics, manufacturing, and distribution, this podcast explores the full spectrum of supply chain functions and the leaders driving them forward. Whether navigating periods of growth or overcoming disruption, you’ll discover how strong supply chain strategies fuel business performance.  New episodes are released every other Wednesday and are available on all major podcast streaming platforms, as well as on the Center for Supply Chain Research website. 

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