• 57 minutes 46 seconds
    The Buzz: AI Adoption, Brand Differentiation, & Embracing Discomfort

    On this episode of The Buzz, Scott Luton is joined by special co-host Dr. Muddassir Ahmed and special guest Anthony Reeves, Vice President of Global Brand & Creative at Kohler and author of Eat the Donkey: Why Great Companies Embrace Discomfort. Together, they explore the realities of AI adoption, decision-making optimization, innovation, leadership, and what separates organizations that thrive from those that struggle to keep pace.

    As supply chains continue to evolve in the age of AI, organizations face critical decisions about technology adoption, data quality, change management, and leadership. Scott, Muddassir, and Anthony examine why many AI initiatives fail, what companies can learn from both successes and setbacks, and why strong decision-making remains one of the most valuable competitive advantages. The conversation also explores the growing importance of human connection, brand differentiation, organizational culture, and the willingness to embrace discomfort in pursuit of long-term growth. Drawing on experiences from Amazon, Kohler, Starbucks, and other global brands, Anthony shares powerful lessons on innovation, leadership, and staying true to what makes an organization unique.

    Key Takeaways:

    • AI success depends as much on adoption, change management, and leadership as it does on technology.
    • High-quality, contextualized data remains the foundation for effective AI implementation.
    • Organizations must learn from failed initiatives just as much as successful ones.
    • Soft skills, emotional intelligence, and human connection will become increasingly valuable as AI handles more routine work.
    • Strong brands remain differentiated by purpose, customer experience, and authenticity—not technology alone.
    • Great leaders make difficult decisions early rather than delaying action until opportunities have passed.

    Whether you're leading a supply chain transformation, evaluating AI investments, or building a stronger organization, this episode offers practical insights from leaders who have navigated innovation at the highest levels. You'll walk away with actionable advice on decision-making, change management, leadership, and creating organizations that can thrive amid constant disruption.

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Dr. Mudassir Ahmed. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-ai-adoption-brand-differentiation-embracing-comfort-1595

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    12 June 2026, 4:00 am
  • 44 minutes 48 seconds
    Driving Innovation in Returns Management: David Sobie with Happy Returns

    Most retailers don't have a return policy problem. They have an incentive problem.

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton is joined by David Sobie, Co-Founder and CEO of Happy Returns, for a deep dive into the returns crisis and reverse logistics. David brings over a decade of real-world experience helping major retail brands turn post-purchase friction into customer loyalty. He shares critical data from their latest report with the NRF, exposing a staggering rise in retail fraud, the undeniable psychology of the in-person return, and why over 70% of merchants are moving away from free returns to save "dead stock" from rotting off store shelves.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (04:41) Career beginnings and lessons learned

    (08:15) Hautelook marketing sparks Happy Returns

    (12:00) BORIS revolutionizes online return experience

    (19:38) Speed and return fees impact retail

    (22:53) Combating returns fraud with technology

    (31:44) Expanding network to ten thousand locations

    (35:16) Expert advice for supply chain leaders

    (39:11) Future of personalization and growth

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/driving-innovation-returns-management-happy-returns-1594

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    10 June 2026, 4:00 am
  • 54 minutes 14 seconds
    A Few of the Supply Chain Gals: Winning Case Competitions & Transforming Industry

    Every industry talks about preparing for the future, but few spend enough time listening to the people who will ultimately shape it. 

    What often gets overlooked is that this generation may already be bringing exactly the mindset the industry needs: adaptability, systems thinking, technological fluency, and a willingness to challenge outdated assumptions.

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott W. Luton and guest co-host Liz Raman, Founder and CEO of Supply Chain Gals, sit down with the winning team from the 2026 Supply Chain Gals Case Competition: Madeline Creasman, Founder and CEO of EverChain Solutions; Ashley Bailey, Inventory Analyst at InComm Payments; Thanmayee Maddipati, Global Supply Manager at Apple; and Katerina Folkin, Operations and Economics student at Minerva University.

    Drawing from backgrounds across agriculture, healthcare operations, entrepreneurship, procurement, technology, and global education, they explore what sets the next generation of supply chain leaders apart, and how younger professionals are navigating disruption with fresh perspectives shaped by diverse experiences, a global mindset, and a growing focus on sustainability and emerging technologies like AI. Along the way, they reflect on the role of curiosity, the importance of questioning long-standing ways of working, and why the strongest solutions are often those that balance today's operational realities with the needs of the future.

    Jump into the conversation:
    (00:00) Intro

    (02:17) Meet the 2026 Supply Chain Gals champions

    (04:21) Summer plans and personal introductions

    (07:27) How each leader found supply chain

    (13:37) The mission behind Supply Chain Gals

    (15:37) Inside the 2026 case competition

    (18:48) Solving a supply chain crisis under pressure

    (21:31) Playing to strengths as a team

    (22:06) The competition twist changes everything

    (24:23) Building a realistic supply chain war room

    (26:15) Why this team stood out

    (28:45) Are leaders underestimating young talent?

    (34:53) Information access creates new perspectives

    (38:55) Why communities like Supply Chain Gals matter

    (44:00) Advice for leaders and final takeaways

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/few-supply-chain-gals-winning-case-competitions-transforming-industry-1593

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    8 June 2026, 12:00 am
  • 56 minutes 45 seconds
    The Buzz: How Decision Intelligence Can Transform Supply Chain Performance

    Artificial intelligence continues to dominate supply chain conversations, but why are so many organizations struggling to move beyond pilots and into enterprise-wide success? In this episode of The Buzz powered by APL Logistics, Scott Luton and Alex Pradhan explore the latest research and developments shaping the future of supply chain leadership, AI adoption, omnichannel fulfillment, workforce transformation, and decision intelligence. Special guest Arash Aghlara, Founder and CEO of FlexRule, joins the discussion to share why better decisions—not just better data—may be the key to unlocking supply chain performance.

    From AI pilot purgatory and omnichannel profitability to talent shortages and protein supply disruptions, this episode tackles some of the most pressing challenges facing supply chain leaders today. Scott, Alex, and Arash dive into new research from leading organizations including MIT, Accenture, GEP, and the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Along the way, they explore the growing importance of governance, the role of decision intelligence in modern operations, and why organizations must move beyond visibility alone to create smarter, faster, and more effective business outcomes.
     

    Key Takeaways:

    • Why nearly three-quarters of organizations have yet to move AI initiatives beyond planning and pilot stages.
    • How decision intelligence helps organizations bridge the gap between data, visibility, and action.
    • Key findings from MIT's latest State of Supply Chain Omnichannel research.
    • Why supply chain leaders must rethink workforce development amid a projected talent shortage.
    • The critical role governance plays in scaling AI and improving operational decision-making.
    • How organizations can identify and manage interconnected decisions across planning, logistics, inventory, and customer service.
    • Why practical execution—not hype—is essential for successful digital transformation.

     

    If you're navigating AI adoption, digital transformation, talent challenges, or increasing supply chain complexity, this episode delivers practical insights and actionable strategies from experienced industry leaders. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how decision intelligence can help organizations move beyond visibility, improve execution, and build more resilient supply chains in an increasingly complex business environment.

     

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Alex Pradhan, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychiannow.com/buzz-how-decision-intelligence-transform-supply-chain-performance-1592

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    5 June 2026, 12:00 am
  • 41 minutes 10 seconds
    Key Takeaways from Gartner Supply Chain Symposium 2026

    Supply chain is evolving rapidly and AI is changing how decisions are made. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton, Karin Bursa, and Jake Barr talk with Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, about the key insights from the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium. They explore how supply chain leaders can leverage AI to improve operational efficiency, redesign workflows, and enhance decision-making to remain competitive in the coming years. They discuss the importance of cross-functional initiatives, storytelling for CSCOs, and understanding where technology fits as an enabler rather than the solution.

    The episode breaks down strategies for shifting supply chain operations toward autonomy, including optimizing decision velocity, redesigning critical workflows, and applying AI thoughtfully to reduce manual handoffs and eliminate inefficiencies. Listeners gain insight into how to balance growth, cost, risk, and talent, and why CSCOs need to communicate their strategic value effectively within the C-suite. The conversation also highlights real-world examples of organizations leveraging technology to enable their workforce, not replace it, and emphasizes the potential of agentic AI in planning and disruption management.

    Together, the panel explores why focusing on decision stacks and workflow design is critical for AI readiness, how to prioritize high-impact areas for operational improvements, and why relying solely on technology without a defined problem can lead to missed opportunities. They provide guidance for supply chain professionals on preparing for the future of planning, autonomous operations, and AI-enabled decision-making, illustrating the massive potential for efficiency gains and strategic advantage over the next several years.

     

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (04:07) AI adoption challenges and budget concerns

    (06:41) Avoiding siloed implementation of AI

    (08:56) CSCO influence and strategic storytelling

    (10:24) Autonomy as the new operating model

    (15:45) Technology as an enabler, not a driver

    (20:00) Decision stacks and workflow redesign

    (27:42) Planning summit highlights and upcoming events

    (34:28) Agentic AI market potential by 2030

     

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: 

    https://supplychainnow.com/key-takeaways-gartner-supply-chain-symposium-2026-1591

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    3 June 2026, 12:00 am
  • 57 minutes 7 seconds
    How to Reduce Freight Spend Without a Full RFP

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (02:33) Welcoming Shannon Vaillancourt, CEO of RateLinx

    (03:12) Chicago Bears draft talk (quick icebreaker)

    (04:37) Why shippers overspend: hidden & unmonitored charges

    (05:54) Where technology falls short: data integration & visibility

    (07:28) Identifying red flags: underperforming carriers & dirty data

    (08:40) How RateLinx uncovers savings without a sourcing event

    (18:12) What RateLinx reveals first: data quality & routing context

    (20:20) Using the right carrier for the right product

    (22:15) Real-world example: the toilet company & a $200K routing fix

    (24:32) Parcel vs. LTL: how to know when to shift modes

    (38:10) Flash poll results: biggest freight cost headaches

    (53:00) Key takeaways & free savings snapshot from RateLinx

     

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    1 June 2026, 12:00 am
  • 57 minutes 2 seconds
    Investing In the NOW Generation of Supply Chain Leaders

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (02:21) Meet today’s packaging industry panel

    (05:03) Graduation, family, and taekwondo stories

    (08:30) Building Virginia Tech’s packaging program

    (10:41) Marta finds her packaging passion

    (14:10) Marta’s Unilever packaging internship experience

    (16:24) Mike’s journey from weather to pallets

    (18:59) Remembering Tyson Steffens’ industry impact

    (21:02) Virginia Tech sustainable packaging programs

    (23:12) Hands-on packaging projects and sustainability

    (24:45) Marta’s Virginia Tech student experience

    (26:32) Excitement about packaging industry careers

    (27:31) Why packaging culture feels exciting

    (28:16) Sustainable packaging without sacrificing design

    (28:49) How Pallet Alliance supports manufacturers

    (31:15) The hidden operational cost of pallets

    (32:25) Why Virginia Tech graduates stand out

    (34:25) Strong culture creates long-term employees

    (38:02) Tyson Steffens’ humor and lasting legacy

    (39:09) Tyson Steffens memorial scholarship program

    (43:04) AI, sustainability, and packaging’s future

    (47:36) Career advice for future packaging leaders

     

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/investing-now-generation-supply-chain-leaders-1589

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    29 May 2026, 12:00 am
  • 52 minutes 48 seconds
    Analysis of the Q1 2026 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index

    Additional Links & Resources:

    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/analysis-q1-2026-us-bank-freight-payment-index-1588

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    27 May 2026, 12:00 am
  • 58 minutes 3 seconds
    The Buzz: Why Supply Chain Leaders Must Adapt Faster Than Ever

    In this episode of The Buzz, we explore the accelerating pace of supply chain transformation—from AI and automation to talent challenges, micro-fulfillment, and the evolving role of leadership in a volatile business environment. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by OptiLogic!

    Hosts Scott Luton and Rick McDonald unpack some of the biggest developments shaping global supply chain today, including Amazon’s expanding supply chain services model, the growing pressure on traditional logistics providers, and the continued rise of AI-first operations. The conversation also dives into key takeaways from MODEX 2026, highlighting trends in warehouse automation, robotics, talent development, forecasting, and change management. Along the way, the episode draws leadership lessons from legendary Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox and explores what today’s supply chain leaders must do to stay resilient, competitive, and customer-focused in an era defined by disruption and rapid innovation.

    Key Learnings & Takeaways

    • AI is reshaping supply chain strategy, forecasting, and operational decision-making
    • Amazon’s supply chain services expansion could significantly disrupt logistics markets
    • Warehouse automation and robotics continue to accelerate across the industry
    • Change management remains one of the biggest barriers to successful transformation
    • Companies must rethink hiring strategies to secure future-ready talent
    • Data only matters if it solves meaningful business problems
    • Micro-fulfillment and faster delivery expectations are redefining supply chain networks
    • Strong leadership, adaptability, and customer focus are more critical than ever

    As supply chains face mounting complexity, rising customer expectations, and constant disruption, organizations that embrace innovation, invest in talent, and execute with agility will separate themselves from the competition. This episode delivers practical insights and forward-looking perspectives for leaders navigating the next era of supply chain transformation.

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Rick McDonald and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/the-buzz-supply-chain-leaders-must-adapt-faster-than-ever

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


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    22 May 2026, 4:00 am
  • 56 minutes 40 seconds
    Why the Theory of Constraints Is More Relevant Than Ever Before

    Most organizations don't have a technology problem. They have a focus problem.

    In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton, together with co-host Kim Humphrey, President and CEO of AME, is joined by Rami Goldratt, CEO of Goldratt Group, for a practical, no-fluff deep dive into the Theory of Constraints and what it actually takes to drive breakthrough performance in today's business environment. From why most companies are automating what they can instead of what they should, to the danger of spreading resources thin across too many initiatives, Rami brings decades of real-world experience helping organizations across manufacturing, retail, automotive, engineering, and logistics unlock significant gains in throughput and lead time reduction. Kim adds her lens on why continuous improvement and constraints-thinking are more intertwined than ever, and why the principles Rami's father Dr. Eliyahu Goldratt pioneered are not just still relevant but urgently needed right now.

    The conversation spans the full arc: inherent simplicity, managing uncertainty with buffers and fast feedback loops, the tug of war between local efficiency and global performance, and what it looks like when an entire engineering organization aligns behind a single constraint to achieve the impossible. The Mazda story alone is worth the listen. If you're navigating complexity, chasing results that keep falling short, or trying to build an organization that can actually adapt and execute, this one's for you.

    Jump into the conversation:

    (00:00) Intro

    (08:43) Rami's career journey and key lessons learned

    (15:26) The legacy and simplicity of Dr Eliyahu Goldratt

    (18:30) Biggest trends and challenges facing businesses today

    (23:39) What is Theory of Constraints and the three fears

    (28:09) Why forecasts keep getting less accurate over time

    (31:35) Common TOC misconceptions and local vs global efficiency

    (38:09) Why supply chain variety is destroying forecast accuracy

    (47:15) The Mazda case study and TOC in action

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/why-theory-constraints-more-relevant-than-ever-before-1586

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    20 May 2026, 4:00 am
  • 36 minutes 6 seconds
    Supply Chain Now Classic Episode: Remade in America

    Every year, Americans return nearly a trillion dollars’ worth of products. But once those items leave our hands, most of us never think about where they go—or what happens next.

    In this Supply Chain Now Classic Episode, first published in early Februry 2026, host Deborah Dull takes listeners inside the little-known world of reverse logistics, where returned products are sorted, resold, recycled, repaired, or too often, discarded. What emerges is a complex and fragmented system struggling to capture more than $200 billion in lost value—along with critical materials that could power a more resilient, sustainable economy.

    This special feature explores the people, processes, and infrastructure behind returns, revealing both the challenges and the massive untapped opportunity hidden in plain sight. From outdated systems and disconnected networks to innovative approaches reshaping how products are recovered and reused, Remade in America uncovers what’s really happening after “return” is clicked.

    Along the way, Deborah asks a provocative question: Is “Made in America” still the right goal—or is the future about something more powerful?

    What if the real opportunity isn’t just making more, but making better use of what we already have?

    Through expert insights, real-world stories, and on-the-ground perspectives, Remade in America redefines how we think about returns, recovery, and the future of supply chains in a resource-constrained world.

    This is a story about waste, value, resilience—and how reimagining reverse logistics could help reshape American industry for the next generation.

    Additional Links & Resources:


    This episode is hosted by Deborah Dull and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/remade-america-1541

    The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

    For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

    © 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    18 May 2026, 4:00 am
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