Supply Chain Now

Supply Chain Now

The VOICE of Supply Chain

  • 48 minutes 47 seconds
    The Buzz: Modernizing Manufacturing

    In the contemporary landscape of supply chain management, the integration of sustainability and digital transformation into modern manufacturing is emerging as a paramount necessity, heralding a new industrial paradigm that embraces resilience and intelligence.

    In this new episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson cover this and other top headlines and welcome Vesna Deljosevic, CEO and Owner of Reforma Group, to the show. They discuss:

    • Insights from the World Economic Forum at Davos, including the imperative for manufacturing leaders to prioritize sustainability, not merely as a compliance measure but as a fundamental business strategy
    • The need to attract the younger workforce to the manufacturing sector, and to rebrand the reputation of manufacturing careers, showcasing the modern, high-tech nature of the industry
    • Fostering a culture of employee engagement and appreciation for enhancing morale and productivity, and driving overall success
    • The shift towards sustainable practices that both manufacturers and consumers must embrace
    • Approaching cybersecurity as a critical business concern with a comprehensive strategy to mitigate risk effectively

    Join us for an episode that serves as a powerful call to action for industry leaders to adapt, innovate, and build resilience amid shifting global challenges.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-modernizing-manufacturing-1394

    21 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 33 minutes 12 seconds
    Supply Chain Evolution: Trade Policy, Shopping Malls, and 9B+ Amazon Deliveries

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, for a dynamic discussion that spans tariffs, the evolution of retail, and the ever-changing world of supply chain.

    Scott and Mike discuss global supply chain challenges, including the impact of tariffs, risk management strategies, and the need for resilience in an unpredictable world.

    The duo also dives into Amazon’s continued dominance in e-commerce and how it has reshaped consumer expectations, sustainability considerations, and retail competition. Plus, they explore the changing role of shopping malls—once a hub of social life and commerce, now evolving to meet new consumer demands.

    Tune in today as Mike and Scott look ahead to upcoming industry events, and explore the past, present, and future of supply chain innovation.

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/supply-chain-evolution-trade-policy-shopping-malls-amazon-deliveries-1393


    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by . For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com

    19 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 41 minutes 45 seconds
    Analysis of the U.S. Bank 2024 Q4 Freight Payment Index

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kim Reuter are joined by freight industry experts Bobby Holland, Director of Freight Business Analytics at U.S. Bank, and Ken Adamo, Chief of Analytics at DAT Freight & Analytics. Together, they break down the latest U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index and what it reveals about the current state of the freight market.

    Bobby and Ken share data-driven insights on key industry trends, including sluggish manufacturing, shifts in freight demand, and the impact of tariffs on cross-border shipments. They also discuss the balance between supply and demand, regional freight challenges, and how businesses can use data to navigate economic uncertainty.

    For logistics professionals, shippers, and supply chain leaders, this episode provides actionable intelligence on market conditions, freight costs, and what to expect in 2025.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (01:27) U.S. Bank and DAT’s new freight data partnership

    (05:54) How the Freight Payment Index tracks market shifts

    (11:26) Key freight trends: manufacturing slowdowns, inventory buildup

    (15:56) Are we in a freight recession? Market signals explained

    (19:36) The ‘magic middle’: balancing freight supply and demand

    (23:30) Cross-border freight and tariff concerns in the Southwest

    (27:58) How retail and housing impact freight in the Northeast

    (32:41) National freight trends: stabilization and future outlook

    (34:42) 2025 freight predictions: housing, automotive, and tariffs

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter, and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/analysis-us-bank-2024-q4-freight-payment-index-1392

    17 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 36 minutes 59 seconds
    The Buzz: The Evolution of Super Bowl Marketing

    Welcome to a special edition of The Buzz, as we explore the evolution of the marketing behind the NFL's biggest game of the year, The Super Bowl!

    As host Scott Luton was away at Manifest 2025, special hosts Mary Kate Love, Amanda Luton, and Katherine Hintz step in to tackle the intricate relationship between marketing and the Super Bowl, an event that serves as a pivotal platform for brands to showcase their advertising prowess. Listen in as they examine the profound impact of this annual spectacle, which attracts over one hundred million viewers and generates billions in advertising revenue.

    Join us for the discussion that includes:

    • The evolution of Super Bowl advertising, highlighting significant trends such as the increasing costs of ad placements and the growing importance of social media engagement
    • A reflection on the effect of iconic commercials that have shaped pop culture
    • An analysis of the shifting dynamics of halftime shows, emphasizing their transformation into major marketing opportunities

    You won't want to miss this timely conversation that aims to illuminate the strategies employed by brands to capture the attention of consumers amidst the competitive landscape of this prestigious event.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Mary Kate Love, Amanda Luton, and Katherine HIntz, and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-evolution-super-bowl-marketing-1391

    14 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 17 minutes 25 seconds
    Lessons in Leadership, Life, and Legacy with Scott Luton

    In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton shares his thoughts on leadership, empathy, and life experiences in a podcast recorded in Las Vegas before the Manifest 2025 conference. He emphasizes the importance of empathetic leadership, recounts a memorable trip to Dallas with his son, and reflects on his personal journey, including a challenging high school experience and his time in the United States Air Force. Scott also pays tribute to his late friend Greg Chapman, who pursued his passion for music while bravely battling cancer.

    Join us for this episode, as Scott encourages listeners to chase their dreams and live life to the fullest, highlighting the fleeting nature of time and the importance of gratitude and resilience.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/lessons-leadership-life-legacy-1390

    12 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    Powering Aerospace Manufacturing Forward with Digital Innovation

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, sponsored by Microsoft, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kevin L. Jackson sit down with aerospace leaders Allison Giddens, President of Operations at Win-Tech Inc., and Tyler Kowalczik, Vice President and Co-owner of Component Products Corporation. Together, they explore how digital transformation is reshaping aerospace manufacturing—helping businesses scale, improve efficiency, and strengthen supply chain resilience.

    Allison and Tyler share firsthand insights on the challenges of modern aerospace production, from navigating supply chain complexities to leveraging ERP systems and AI-driven decision-making. They also discuss the evolving role of cybersecurity and compliance, including CMMC, and how manufacturers can stay ahead of shifting regulations. For supply chain professionals and industry leaders, this conversation offers key insights into the tools, strategies, and innovations driving the next era of aerospace success.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (01:31) How digital transformation shapes aerospace manufacturing

    (08:01) Win-Tech Inc.’s role in aerospace and defense

    (11:00) CPC’s expansion into defense, space, and tech

    (14:28) Key challenges in aerospace supply chains, compliance

    (19:47) How manufacturers use digital tools to win bids

    (23:15) Leveraging ERP and AI to improve operations

    (28:59) Strengthening supply chain resilience, reliability

    (34:30) The impact of CMMC on cybersecurity, contracts

    (39:42) Navigating supplier trust and regulations

    (46:05) Practical advice for digital transformation

    (52:04) How CMMC is evolving for contractors

    (57:34) Insights on innovation, leadership, and future trends

    Additional Links & Resources:

    • Connect with Allison Giddens: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisongiddens/
    • Connect with Tyler Kowalczik: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerkowalczik/
    • Learn more about Win-Tech, Inc.: https://win-tech.net/
    • Learn more about Component Products Corp: https://cpc-web.com/
    • Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjackson/
    • Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
    • Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
    • Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
    • Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
    • Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson, and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/powering-aerospace-manufacturing-forward-digital-innovation-1389

    10 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 46 minutes 20 seconds
    The Buzz: Sustainability in Modern Supply Chains

    As the recent imposition of substantial tariffs by the White House is poised to exert significant influence on global supply chains, hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa navigate through these developments in this week's episode of The Buzz!

    Listen in as Scott and Karin cover the top headlines and also welcome Mark Irvin, Executive Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer of Best Buy to the show. They discuss:

    • The intricacies of how automotive manufacturers are adapting to new efficiencies amidst logistics challenges
    • Best Buy's strides towards sustainability, highlighting Best Buy's commitment to energy-efficient products and the reduction of waste
    • The critical interplay between supply chain management and environmental responsibility

    Join us for an episode that not only offers insights into current market dynamics, but also emphasizes the importance of fostering resilient and sustainable practices within the supply chain sector.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-sustainability-modern-supply-chains-1388

    7 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 44 minutes 40 seconds
    State of Freight 2025: What Lies Ahead

    In this episode, host Scott W. Luton dives into the evolving state of the freight industry with an expert panel featuring Lee Klaskow, Senior Analyst for Transportation & Logistics at Bloomberg Intelligence and host of Talking Transports, and Brian Oxley, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Vector Global Logistics. Together, they discuss the biggest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping global freight in 2025.

    This insightful conversation covers the rise of the zero-click environment in logistics, the transformative impact of automation at ports, and the shifting dynamics in air, ocean, rail, and truckload freight. From freight theft and geopolitical disruptions to the potential of nimbleness as the key to success, the panel shares data-driven perspectives and actionable takeaways to help supply chain leaders navigate the road ahead.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (06:24) Lee’s insights on Bloomberg Intelligence and the freight market

    (09:30) Freight theft and geopolitical disruptions in 2024

    (11:09) Key takeaways from the state of freight in 2024

    (15:38) The impact of automation on port operations and labor dynamics

    (19:03) Air freight trends: E-commerce drivers and China’s role

    (22:24) Ocean freight challenges and the Red Sea’s impact on capacity

    (27:06) Railroads and the potential of north-south connectivity

    (29:33) Freight volumes and pricing trends across modes

    (32:34) Truckload and LTL trends: Recovery signs and spot market dynamics

    (36:47) Nimbleness as the key to supply chain success in 2025

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/state-freight-2025-1387

    5 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 35 minutes 6 seconds
    Breaking News Now: LA Fires Update

    In today's special episode of Supply Chain Now, we introduce a new series, "Breaking News Now," to bring live, timely, and relevant stories to its audience. In the inaugural episode, hosts Scott Luton and Kristi Porter discuss the devastating impact of the California wildfires with Janice Steverding, Chief Impact and Operations Officer at Gifts for Good.

    The conversation highlights the resilience and community spirit of Angelenos, the challenges faced by first responders, and the importance of supporting those affected. Janice shares her personal experience of evacuation and the overwhelming support from neighbors and colleagues.

    Listen in for actionable ways to help, including donating to vetted organizations and using the Watch Duty app for real-time updates, and the need for collective action and long-term support for recovery efforts.

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kristi Porter produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/breaking-news-now-la-fires-update-1386

    3 February 2025, 5:00 am
  • 45 minutes 33 seconds
    The Buzz: Looking to Manifest 2025

    Hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter discuss key topics and latest trends shaping the global supply landscape in this week's episode of The Buzz!

    Join us as they welcome Pam Simon, EVP of Programming for Manifest, and listen as they discuss:

    • The ambitious $1.4 billion nearshoring incentive plan announced by Mexico, aimed at bolstering local manufacturing and creating 1.5 million skilled jobs
    • The increasing importance of predictability in supply chain management as companies adapt to evolving market conditions and strive for operational resilience
    • The upcoming Manifest 2025 conference, and the significance of networking and collaboration

    Tune in for an informative discussion that covers everything from AI in fashion supply chains to the growing M&A activity in the logistics sector, and so much more.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-manifest-2025-1385

    31 January 2025, 5:00 am
  • 55 minutes 54 seconds
    A Candid Supply Chain Conversation with Dr. Yossi Sheffi

    In today's new episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas Herrera welcome Dr. Yossi Sheffi, Director of the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, to the show.

    Listen in to a discussion covering a range of topics including the evolving skillsets required for supply chain professionals, the impact of AI on the industry, and the importance of understanding supply chain dynamics for all managers. Dr. Sheffi emphasized the need for risk-taking in business, the practical challenges of sustainability, and the critical role of supply chain knowledge in maintaining competitiveness. The conversation also touched on the future of tariffs and trade policies under the current administration, highlighting the complexities and potential impacts on global supply chains.

    Join us for this must-listen episode, suited for anyone looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of supply chain management.

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas Herrera, and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/candid-supply-chain-conversation-1384

    29 January 2025, 5:00 am
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