Supply Chain Now

Supply Chain Now

The VOICE of Supply Chain

  • 42 minutes 8 seconds
    The Buzz: Unpacking the Impacts of Automotive Tariffs

    Join us as we delve into the intricate dynamics of contemporary supply chain challenges, with a particular emphasis on the newly imposed automotive tariffs. Welcome to The Buzz!

    This week, hosts Scott Luton and Allison Giddens' discussion unfolds a variety of pressing topics, including:

    • The ripple effects these tariffs are anticipated to have on the automotive industry and consumer prices
    • The plight of British Steel, which faces potential shutdowns amidst ongoing struggles
    • Significant movements in retail, where companies are racing to enhance delivery capabilities in response to evolving consumer expectations
    • What the US government is doing abroad to ease egg prices at home
    • And more!

    Listen in for insightful analysis and expert commentary, as we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of these critical developments across the global supply chain landscape.

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Allison Giddens and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-unpacking-impacts-automotive-tariffs-1412

    4 April 2025, 4:00 am
  • 43 minutes 33 seconds
    Navigating Global Logistics: Supply Chain Strategies & Leadership Lessons with Jeffrey Shih

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter are joined by Jeffrey Shih, CEO of Taiwan-based Dimerco Express Group, who brings over 35 years of logistics industry experience. The conversation covers a range of topics including the impact of tariffs, trade compliance, and the shifting dynamics of global sourcing strategies. Jeffrey shares invaluable tips on managing global relationships, the importance of technology in logistics, and the significance of understanding local cultures and practices.

    Whether you're a supply chain professional or simply interested in the field, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter, and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/navigating-global-logistics-supply-chain-strategies-leadership-lessons-1411

    2 April 2025, 4:00 am
  • 49 minutes 36 seconds
    4 Ways That End-to-End Demand Planning Has & Hasn't Changed

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome back Wiley Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of Doss, to discuss the evolving world of demand planning and supply chain optimization. Wiley shares his journey, from designing toys in factories in Asia to leading hardware projects in Silicon Valley, and how his diverse experiences shaped his mission to increase the agility of the global value chain.

    They talk about the timeless truths in demand planning, such as the importance of aligning business inputs and outputs, and the transformative role of data integration in modern demand forecasting. Wiley also delves into the impact of AI and machine learning in enhancing decision-making processes, helping organizations plan more effectively in an unpredictable market.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (03:30) From toys to hardware projects

    (06:00) How Wiley shaped his supply chain agility approach

    (09:15) The importance of demand planning

    (12:40) Timeless truths in demand planning

    (16:00) How AI and machine learning change demand planning

    (19:20) The role of data integration in demand planning

    (22:30) The challenges of forecasting in an unpredictable market

    (25:00) Innovating and embracing change in supply chain management

    (28:15) The impact of new technology on demand planning models

    (31:40) How Doss is modernizing supply chain operations

    (34:00) Fostering innovation within supply chain teams

    (37:15) The future of demand planning

    (40:00) Embracing disruption and leveraging technology for growth

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Marty Parker and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/4-ways-end-end-demand-planning-has-hasnt-changed-1410

    31 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 43 minutes 27 seconds
    The Buzz: Optimizing Customer Experiences in Supply Chain

    Join us as we discuss the paramount importance of nurturing relationships within the intricate tapestry of global supply chains, today on The Buzz!

    This week, hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr explore critical topics, alongside special guest Mark Gorlin, founder and CEO of Roadie. Listen in as they emphasize that successful leadership hinges upon the ability to cultivate rapport, and so much more. Listen in for:

    • Insightful perspectives on the current dynamics of tariffs and their profound implications for retail leaders
    • Innovative strategies employed by leading brands to enhance customer experiences amidst challenging environments
    • Invaluable lessons gleaned from the peak season of 2024, highlighting the necessity of adapting to soaring customer expectations and cost pressures
    • And much more!

    Listen in as we navigate these multifaceted topics, and invite the audience to engage proactively with the ever-evolving supply chain landscape.

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-optimizing-customer-experiences-supply-chain-1409

    28 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 42 minutes 46 seconds
    The Evolving Manufacturing Industry: Skills, Technology, & Workforce Growth

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of The Manufacturing Institute, to discuss the critical issues shaping the future of the manufacturing workforce. Carolyn shares her journey, from growing up in a manufacturing family to her leadership role at The Manufacturing Institute, where she works to bridge the skills gap and build the workforce of tomorrow.

    They talk about the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, the importance of education and training programs like Heroes MAKE America and the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME), and how the manufacturing sector is evolving in response to technology and automation. Carolyn also discusses the power of storytelling to change perceptions of manufacturing careers and the impact of initiatives that support military veterans and their families in transitioning to high-demand manufacturing roles.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Bridging talent and manufacturing

    (01:03)  Carolyn Lee: A Leader in Manufac

    (07:32) The Manufacturing Institute's mission

    (12:44) Empowering veterans with manufacturing career

    (17:49) FAME: Advanced maintenance training

    (21:42) The importance of core skills in manufacturing

    (23:51) The role of AI and automation in manufacturing

    (25:46) The future of manufacturing jobs

    (29:33) Heroes MAKE America: Success stories

    (30:44) Changing perceptions of manufacturing careers

    (36:16) The power of Manufacturing Day


    Additional Links and Resources:



    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton, Joshua Miranda, and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/evolving-manufacturing-industry-skills-technology-workforce-growth-1408

    26 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 58 minutes 34 seconds
    Keeping it Real with Retail Leadership: A Chat with Bill Thorne

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Bill Thorne, Senior Vice President of Communications, Research, and Marketing at the National Retail Federation (NRF) and host of the Retail Gets Real podcast. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of retail, from how customer insights drive innovation to the power of storytelling in shaping brand loyalty.

    This engaging conversation covers the impact of COVID-19 on retail operations, how agility and speed became key to survival, and why retailers must embrace change to stay competitive. Bill also shares insights from his time at Walmart, lessons from Savannah’s booming port economy, and why successful retailers prioritize community and connection.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) The pace of change in retail

    (01:22) The power of customer insights

    (05:15) Retail storytelling and brand loyalty

    (10:05) Savannah’s role in global supply chains

    (14:26) The future of retail logistics

    (18:03) Walmart’s digital transformation

    (22:50) Retail’s pandemic response and lessons learned

    (27:36) The importance of personalization in shopping

    (31:11) Why agility is key in modern retail

    (38:29) How data drives retail success

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/keeping-real-retail-leadership-1407

    24 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 47 minutes 56 seconds
    The Buzz: Understanding the Impact of Global Trade Tariffs

    The imposition of tariffs by the United States on various nations has emerged as a focal point of discussion, significantly impacting global trade dynamics.

    In this episode of The Buzz, host Kevin L. Jackson delves into the ramifications of these tariffs, particularly on supply chain operations and international economic relations along with Warwick Powell, a distinguished expert in supply chain digitalization, who provides insightful analysis on the evolving landscape of trade and the necessity for agility amidst these challenges.

    Listen in as they discuss:

    • The critical intersection of technological advancement and geopolitical considerations
    • The strategies that businesses can adopt to thrive in an ever-changing global market, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and adaptability
    • And much more

    Join us for a critical analysis and understanding of the current economic climate and its implications for supply chain leaders worldwide.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Kevin L. Jackson and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-understanding-impact-global-trade-tariffs-1406

    21 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 52 minutes 54 seconds
    PING Golf’s Success with a Faster, Easier, and Fully Integrated TMS
    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton explores the future of supply chain efficiency with Doug Wilson, Software Product Manager at PING Golf, and Shannon Vaillancourt, CEO of RateLinx. Together, they discuss how PING Golf is leveraging RateLinx’s TMS to streamline global shipping, improve real-time visibility, and enhance customer satisfaction.

    This engaging conversation covers the challenges of managing a globally distributed supply chain, the benefits of seamless ERP and TMS integration, and how automation and data-driven decision-making are transforming logistics operations. Doug and Shannon share firsthand experiences of reducing shipping errors, optimizing carrier selection, and ensuring faster, more reliable deliveries worldwide.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Software reliability

    (01:56) Golf experiences

    (04:56) Ping Golf's global supply chain

    (05:50) Implementing a new TMS

    (09:36) Challenges and solutions in shipping

    (13:47) Integration and benefits of Ship Links TMS

    (19:19) Improving delivery speed and accuracy

    (25:32) Shipping challenges and customer satisfaction

    (26:00) Addressing freight charges and rate calculations

    (26:52) Common shipping problems

    (30:48) Implementation and transition strategies

    (35:14) Real-time visibility and data analytics

    (45:57) Mastering TMS Implementation


    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/ping-golf-success-faster-easier-fully-integrated-tms-1405

    19 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 1 hour 1 minute
    From Classroom to Boardroom: Preparing the NOW Generation of Supply Chain Leaders

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Dr. Stephanie Thomas and Dr. Rod Thomas, associate professors of Supply Chain Management at the Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of supply chain education, talent development, and the critical role of collaboration between academia and industry.

    Stephanie and Rod share insights on preparing the NOW generation of supply chain leaders, discussing the increasing awareness of supply chain careers, the importance of experiential learning, and how companies can build stronger internship pipelines. They also dive into the intersection of retail media networks and supply chain strategy—an emerging opportunity to shape demand and improve operational efficiency.

    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/classroom-boardroom-preparing-now-generation-supply-chain-leaders-1404

    17 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 47 minutes 35 seconds
    The Buzz: Innovation, Resilience, and Opportunities in Global Supply Chain

    Join us as we tackle the imperative role of innovation within the supply chain sector, particularly as organizations endeavor to navigate the complexities of the current global business landscape, today on The Buzz!

    This week, hosts Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez explore critical topics, alongside special guest Jenny Froome, Director of Upavon, as they discuss:

    • How the manufacturing industry in the United States is striving to rebound despite encountering significant obstacles
    • The transformative potential of artificial intelligence in optimizing freight brokerage operations
    • Insights into the upcoming SAPICS annual conference and Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards
    • And much more!

    Listen in on this episode, as we underscore the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in fostering a resilient supply chain ecosystem.

    Additional Links & Resources:



    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-innovation-resilience-opportunities-global-supply-chain-1403

    14 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 13 minutes 48 seconds
    Supply Chain Spotlight: Global Economies, Tariffs, & the Power of Positive Assumptions

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton highlights some of the most talked about topics in industry, including global economic trends, market news, the power of positive assumptions, and upcoming industry events.

    Join us as Scott discusses insights on the top global economies projected for 2025, the bustling activity at US ports, the impact of tariffs on supply chains, Goodyear's transformation through AI and 3D printing, and the importance of maintaining positive assumptions in professional relationships.

    Listen in for this great discussion, as well as a bonus preview of ProMat 2025 and National Supply Chain Day, encouraging community engagement and recognition of industry contributions.

    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/supply-chain-spotlight-global-economies-tariffs-power-positive-assumptions-1402

    12 March 2025, 4:00 am
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