The Logistics of Logistics

Joe Lynch

  • 1 hour 1 minute
    Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations with Michael Hane

    In "Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations", Joe Lynch and Mike Hane, Director of Product Marketing for Transportation Management at Descartes Systems Group, discuss how to protect global supply chains from fragmented technology, carrier identity theft, and increasingly sophisticated cargo fraud.

    About Michael Hane

    Mike Hane is the Director of Product Marketing for Transportation Management at Descartes Systems Group. With more than 30 years of experience in transportation, logistics technology, and supply chain consulting, Mike helps organizations understand emerging freight trends and apply technology to build more resilient and efficient transportation operations. Prior to joining Descartes, Mike held leadership roles at DAT, Optilogic, CHAINalytics, and CAPS Logistics, where he focused on transportation strategy, network optimization, and freight market intelligence. At Descartes, he works closely with shippers, brokers, and logistics service providers to translate industry challenges into practical technology solutions across transportation management, real-time visibility, carrier connectivity, and logistics security. Mike frequently shares insights on transportation technology trends, digital transformation in freight, and the evolving role of logistics networks in global supply chains.

    About Descartes Systems Group

    Descartes powers more responsive, efficient, secure and sustainable international and domestic supply chains by uniting logistics-intensive businesses on its Global Logistics Network (GLN). Shippers, carriers, and logistics service providers connect and collaborate on the GLN leveraging technology, data and AI to manage last mile deliveries, domestic and international shipments, transportation rating and payment, global trade research, customs compliance and a variety of regulatory processes.

    Key Takeaways: Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations
    • In "Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations", Joe Lynch and Mike Hane, Director of Product Marketing for Transportation Management at Descartes Systems Group, discuss how to protect global supply chains from fragmented technology, carrier identity theft, and increasingly sophisticated cargo fraud.
    • The 3 Key Vulnerabilities discussed are listed below:
      • Vulnerability 1 – Outdated, Clunky Freight Tech Stack. The modern logistics tech stack is a prime target for sophisticated bad actors who are now using AI to scale their attacks. This vulnerability focuses on the integrity of the TMS suite and broader tech stack, requiring companies to have the scale and advanced defenses necessary to stay ahead of automated threats.
      • Vulnerability 2 – Carrier Identity Theft & Freight Hijacking. Freight fraud—including double brokering and fraudulent load pickups—is a direct result of failing to verify identity at the point of transaction. This vulnerability highlights the operational risk of giving freight to an unverified actor, proving that basic vetting is no longer enough to prevent cargo loss.
      • Vulnerability 3 – Data Exposure & Unsecured Partner Connectivity. Modern freight operations are at risk due to the fragmentation of data and automation. This vulnerability focuses on the danger of shipment data and AI tools operating outside of a trusted environment. When partners connect to technology platforms without rigorous security, the entire network becomes a target for leaks and external manipulation.
    • Modernizing the Tech Stack: Fragmented or legacy systems create security gaps. Freight operations must move toward integrated, secure platforms rather than a patchwork of disconnected software to ensure data integrity and vendor stability.
    • The "Verify Then Trust" Model: To combat identity theft and "chameleon carriers," logistics providers should use automated vetting to verify not just the carrier's authority, but also the specific driver and equipment via VIN and geolocation.
    • Neutralizing Sophisticated Fraud: Cargo theft has evolved into organized corporate scams involving double brokering and fake insurance. Real-time monitoring for suspicious tracking pings or IP addresses is now essential to identify bad actors before a load is picked up.
    • Strengthening Operational Hygiene: Security relies on strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This includes "zeroing out" inactive carriers every few months to force re-vetting and immediately revoking system access for former employees.
    • Strategic AI Integration: AI should be used to automate high-volume manual tasks—like chasing tracking updates or proof of delivery—within a secure logistics environment to prevent sensitive financial data from being exposed to unvetted models.
    • Global Multimodal Connectivity: Leveraging a Global Logistics Network (GLN) allows shippers and brokers to collaborate across air, ocean, and truck modes while maintaining high standards for customs and regulatory compliance.
    • Visibility as a Risk Deterrent: Real-time visibility is a critical security layer. Monitoring for location spoofing or unauthorized stops allows for immediate intervention if a shipment is being diverted to a fraudulent location.
    Learn More About Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations

    Mike Hane | Linkedin

    Descartes Systems Group | Linkedin

    Descartes Systems Group

    Your OpsForce AI Team: Meet the Future of Intelligent Visibility

    Transportation Management Form

    Vesta Freight Strengthens Customer Service and Freight Security with Descartes 3G TMS™, Descartes MacroPoint™, and Descartes MyCarrierPortal™

    Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group with Dan Cicerchi

    Unpacking Cargo Theft: Trends and Solutions with Danielle Spinelli

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    25 March 2026, 8:43 pm
  • 43 minutes 39 seconds
    UPS at the Crossroads: Finding Profit in a Disrupted Landscape with Bloomberg's Devin Leonard

    In "UPS at the Crossroads: Finding Profit in a Disrupted Landscape with Bloomberg's Devin Leonard", Joe Lynch and Devin Leonard, Senior Writer on the global business team at Bloomberg News, discuss how the logistics giant is navigating shifting markets, intense competition, and rising labor costs.

    About Devin Leonard

    Devin Leonard is a senior writer on the global business team at Bloomberg News. His work appears regularly in Bloomberg Businessweek where he has written periodically about the logistics industry. His 2011 cover story, "The End of Mail," about the existential crisis at the U.S. Postal Service was a finalist for the Gerald Loeb award for explanatory writing, In May 2016, Grove Press published Leonard's book, Neither Snow Nor Rain: A History of the United States Postal Service, which the New York Times called "sweeping and entertaining.

    About Bloomberg News

    Bloomberg News is a global news agency and a primary division of Bloomberg L.P., a privately held financial, software, data, and media company. Founded in 1990 by Michael Bloomberg and Matthew Winkler, the news service was originally created to provide real-time financial news to subscribers of the Bloomberg Terminal (the Bloomberg Professional® service). Today, it is one of the largest news organizations in the world, producing over 5,000 stories daily.

    Key Takeaways: UPS at the Crossroads: Finding Profit in a Disrupted Landscape
    • In "UPS at the Crossroads: Finding Profit in a Disrupted Landscape with Bloomberg's Devin Leonard", Joe Lynch and Devin Leonard, Senior Writer on the global business team at Bloomberg News, discuss how the logistics giant is navigating shifting markets, intense competition, and rising labor costs.
    • Historic Leadership Shift: Carol Tomé is the first woman and first outsider to lead UPS in its 118-year history, breaking a century-long tradition of promoting exclusively from within the "brown" culture.
    • "Better, Not Bigger": UPS has pivoted from chasing high volume to prioritizing high-yield profitability. This means intentionally reducing reliance on low-margin ecommerce (like Amazon) to focus on more lucrative accounts.
    • The Amazon Evolution: Amazon has transformed from UPS's biggest customer into its most formidable competitor, now delivering nearly as many packages as the USPS and utilizing its own massive logistics network.
    • Teamsters Contract Impact: The 2023 negotiations led by Sean O'Brien resulted in a historic contract with top driver compensation reaching $170,000 (wages + benefits), significantly increasing UPS's fixed costs in a cooling market.
    • Market Fragmentation: The industry is no longer a duopoly. UPS now competes against regional carriers using advanced tech to "stitch together" national services, as well as gig-economy players like DoorDash.
    • Strategic Repositioning: To differentiate, UPS is doubling down on specialized sectors like Healthcare (cold-chain) and international logistics—complex services that simple gig-drivers or regional startups cannot easily replicate.
    • "Shrink to Grow" Strategy: To maintain margins, UPS is closing distribution centers, automating facilities, and offering buyouts to senior staff. The challenge remains: can they grow the stock price while shrinking the physical footprint?
    Learn More About UPS at the Crossroads: Finding Profit in a Disrupted Landscape

    Devin Leonard | Linkedin

    Devin Leonard Website

    Bloomberg News | Linkedin

    Bloomberg News

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    19 March 2026, 10:07 pm
  • 52 minutes 25 seconds
    REPOST: Real-World Supply Chain AI Applications with Gather AI's Sankalp Arora
    In "Real-World Supply Chain AI Applications with Gather AI's Sankalp Arora", Joe Lynch and Sankalp Arora, CEO and Co-founder at Gather AI, discuss how Gather AI's combination of drone-collected visual data, AI analysis, and WMS integration is revolutionizing warehouse inventory management. About Sankalp Arora

    Sankalp Arora is the CEO & Co-Founder of Gather AI. With 14 years of experience, Sankalp developed safety and sensor planning for the world's first safe autonomous helicopter, funded by DARPA, a project that won the Howard Hughes award, AUVSI Xcellence award and was nominated for the Collier Trophy. He is a recipient of the Qualcomm Innovation fellowship and Swartz Innovation fellowship and has a PhD in Robotics from Carnegie Mellon University. Gather AI and Sankalp have received several awards, including CB Insights' AI 100, SupplyChainBrain's Great Supply Chain Partner Awards, Peerless Media's NextGen Supply Chain Awards, Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive Top Tech Startup Awards, and the Pittsburgh Inno Fire Awards.

    About Gather AI

    Gather AI is an intralogistics AI company which collects visual data from drones, forklifts, and connected machines, integrates it with warehouse management systems (WMS) and cloud platforms, and uses AI to identify issues and suggest next steps.

    Key Takeaways: Real-World Supply Chain AI Applications
    • In "Real-World Supply Chain AI Applications with Gather AI's Sankalp Arora", Joe Lynch and Sankalp Arora, CEO and Co-founder at Gather AI, discuss how Gather AI's combination of drone-collected visual data, AI analysis, and WMS integration is revolutionizing warehouse inventory management.
    • Bridging Robotics Expertise to Logistics: Sankalp Arora's foundational work in safety and sensor planning for autonomous helicopters (a DARPA-funded project) highlights how sophisticated robotics and computer vision expertise is now being directly applied to create reliable, "real-world" AI solutions for the supply chain.
    • Visual Data is the New Inventory Input: Gather AI utilizes hardware like drones, forklifts, and connected machines to collect vast amounts of visual data within a warehouse, moving beyond manual counts and traditional scanning methods to capture inventory status comprehensively and automatically.
    • Intralogistics Focus: The primary application of this AI is in intralogistics (operations inside the warehouse), specifically tackling challenges like inventory inaccuracy, cycle counting, and labor efficiency—common pain points for WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) users.
    • From Data to Actionable Insights: The platform doesn't just collect data; its core value is using AI to identify specific issues (e.g., misplaced items, damaged inventory, out-of-stock locations) and then suggesting next steps, making the data immediately actionable for warehouse staff.
    • Critical System Integration: For successful real-world adoption, the AI platform must integrate seamlessly with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and cloud platforms, ensuring the visual intelligence updates the enterprise system of record effectively.
    • AI for Operational Efficiency: By automating data collection and analysis, the technology shifts labor away from tedious inventory tasks, allowing personnel to focus on high-value activities, leading to significant gains in operational efficiency and inventory accuracy.
    • Industry Validation of Innovation: Recognition through awards like CB Insights' AI 100 and various Supply Chain Partner awards validates that Gather AI's approach is recognized as a leading, commercially viable, and impactful NextGen Supply Chain technology.
    Learn More About Real-World Supply Chain AI Applications

    Sankalp Arora

    Gather AI

    Gather AI | Linkedin

    Gather AI | YouTube

    Case Studies

    Gather AI Capabilities 2025

    AI Literacy in Logistics with Gather AI's Andrew Hoffman

    Gathering Inventory Data with Sankalp Arora

    Autonomous Data: Gather AI's Warehouse Vision

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    17 March 2026, 7:23 pm
  • 55 minutes 9 seconds
    Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap with JBF's Brad Forester

    In "Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap with JBF's Brad Forester", Joe Lynch and Brad Forester, Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, discuss the critical need for a strategic roadmap to ensure logistics technology delivers real ROI rather than becoming a costly mistake.

    About Brad Forester

    Brad Forester is the Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience in transportation strategy, logistics technology, and supply chain transformation. A recognized industry expert, Brad has advised Fortune 500 companies and high-growth brands on complex global transportation initiatives, from network design and technology selection to implementation and value realization. His background spans senior roles in consulting, software, and shipper operations, giving him a uniquely balanced perspective on strategy and execution. Brad is a frequent industry speaker and thought leader on TMS, visibility, and logistics innovation.

    About JBF Consulting

    JBF Consulting is a leading logistics strategy advisory and technology integration firm that partners with shippers to transform their logistics and supply chain execution operations. We empower clients to achieve operational efficiency and scalable, sustainable value through strategy development, roadmap orchestration, unbiased technology selection, expert implementation, data-driven insights, and ongoing managed services. For over two decades, our client-centric approach and alliances with best-of-breed solution providers have ensured that every strategy and solution we deliver drives measurable impact, long-term success, and customer satisfaction.

    Key Takeaways: Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap
    • In "Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap with JBF's Brad Forester", Joe Lynch and Brad Forester, Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, discuss the critical need for a strategic roadmap to ensure logistics technology delivers real ROI rather than becoming a costly mistake.
    • The Trap is Set Early: Implementation failures (going over budget or missing ROI) are usually symptoms of a missing strategy months prior, rather than errors made during the setup itself.
    • Strategy as Insurance: Investing just 1% to 2% of your budget in a strategic assessment acts as an insurance policy, potentially mitigating up to 80% of common implementation risks.
    • "Slow is Steady, Steady is Fast": Rushing to execute without "future-casting" (planning for growth or acquisitions 5–10 years out) leads to the "$10 million mistake"—having to rip out and replace a system that no longer fits.
    • Create a Shipper Profile: Use a "matchmaking" approach to tech. A tool that works for a retail giant might fail for a bulk chemical shipper; you must find the specific vendor that matches your unique mode mix.
    • The Hybrid Tech Trend: Large shippers are increasingly owning the software and data while outsourcing physical operations, allowing them to switch 3PLs without losing their historical data or visibility.
    • Beware of Shiny Objects: Avoid "AI for AI's sake." Don't buy a hammer and then go looking for a nail; ensure any new tech solves a defined problem statement rather than just chasing industry hype.
    • Phase Two is a Myth: Brad warns that "Phase Two never comes." If you don't build the necessary capabilities into the initial launch, the project often stalls at 75% completion, and the promised ROI is never realized.
    Learn More About Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap

    Brad Forester | LinkedIn

    JBF Consulting | LinkedIn

    JBF Consulting

    Freight Tech Trends with Mike Mulqueen

    FreightTech for Fortune 500 Shippers with Brad Forester and Mike Mulqueen

    FreightTech Reality Check with Brad Forester

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    13 March 2026, 8:10 pm
  • 54 minutes 19 seconds
    Execution, Visibility, and Financial Control: How Infios Solves Global Supply Chain Challenges with Alan Rowlett

    In "Execution, Visibility, and Financial Control: How Infios Solves Global Supply Chain Challenges", Joe Lynch and Alan Rowlett, Corporate Vice President of Infios, discuss how unifying supply chain execution and financial data builds resilience.

    About Alan Rowlett

    Alan D. Rowlett, Jr., PhD, is a transformational global operations and supply chain executive focused on turning complexity into competitive advantage. With more than 25 years of experience spanning global enterprise, service, and logistics environments, he is known as a structured disruptor who challenges conventional thinking while strengthening resilience, modernizing operating models, and leveraging technology to elevate financial performance. Alan brings a disciplined, forward-looking perspective to today's supply chain challenges and is a frequent voice in industry and academic forums focused on innovation, leadership, and the future of global commerce.

    About Infios

    Infios is a global leader in intelligent supply chain execution, relentlessly making supply chains better - every single day. With a portfolio of adaptable solutions, we empower businesses of all sizes to simplify operations, optimize efficiency and drive measurable impact. Infios serves more than 5,000 customers across 70 countries, delivering adaptable and innovative technologies that evolve with changing business needs. Our deep expertise and commitment to purposeful innovation help businesses turn supply chains into a competitive advantage, building resilience and shaping a more sustainable future. Infios is a joint venture of international technology provider Körber and global investment firm KKR. Learn more at www.infios.com.

    Key Takeaways: Execution, Visibility, and Financial Control: How Infios Solves Global Supply Chain Challenges
    • In "Execution, Visibility, and Financial Control: How Infios Solves Global Supply Chain Challenges", Joe Lynch and Alan Rowlett, Corporate Vice President of Infios, discuss how unifying supply chain execution and financial data builds resilience. Visibility drives value.
    • The "End-to-End" Rebrand: Infios represents a strategic unification of industry-leading tools (like MercuryGate TMS and Körber WMS) under one flag. The goal is to move beyond "handshake" visibility to true "order-to-cash" control, spanning the entirety of a product's global journey rather than just the final few days of transport.
    • The Three Pillars of Supply Chain: Alan defines the core of any successful supply chain through three consistent threads that have remained unchanged since the 1980s: Execution (doing the work), Visibility (status and positioning), and Financials (the ultimate measure of winning or losing).
    • Financial Control as the Ultimate Truth: A supply chain's success is ultimately validated by the CFO. Infios focuses on eliminating data inconsistencies between operations and finance, ensuring that freight spend, accruals, and internal ledgers align perfectly to prevent the "discrediting" of logistics data.
    • The "Silent" ROI of Freight Audit: Freight Audit and Payment (FAP) isn't just about catching errors; it's about contract adherence. Infios helps shippers recover significant costs from "freight paid but not used" (like discarded parcel labels) and service failures (like shipments missing a guaranteed 8:00 AM window).
    • Combating Sophisticated Freight Fraud: With the rise of AI-generated fake documentation and "check-interception" by organized cartels, Infios uses its integrated system to flag discrepancies—such as a carrier being tendered as "Company X" but submitting paperwork as "Company Y"—before the invoice is paid.
    • Legacy Systems vs. Cloud Agility: Many global enterprises are "institutionalized" with on-premise mainframes. Alan argues that the transition to the cloud is no longer just about cost-cutting; it's about adaptability. Cloud-based architecture allows for "plug-and-play" integration of AI and data aggregators that on-premise systems simply can't support.
    • Intelligent Connectivity as a Competitive Edge: The future belongs to organizations that unify physical movement with financial flow. By automating "low-value" manual audit drudgery, companies can elevate their staff from processing transactions to analyzing high-level freight spend trends and driving strategic value.
    Learn More About Execution, Visibility, and Financial Control: How Infios Solves Global Supply Chain Challenges

    Alan Rowlett | Linkedin

    Infios | Linkedin

    Infios

    White Paper: Beyond the Invoice: Unlocking strategic value of Freight Audit and Payment programs.

    eBook: The Connected Execution Playbook

    White Paper: Integrating FAP and TMS: The hidden engine behind smarter transportation spend

    Webinar: Driving Cost Savings with FAP

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    10 March 2026, 8:37 pm
  • 56 minutes 42 seconds
    Is Your ERP a Data Graveyard: How to Unlock Millions with Nauta's Valentina Jordan

    In "Is Your ERP a Data Graveyard: How to Unlock Millions with Nauta's Valentina Jordan", Joe Lynch and Valentina Jordan, Co-Founder and CEO of Nauta, discuss how structuring fragmented data turns supply chain silos into actionable revenue.

    About Valentina Jordan

    Valentina Jordan is the Co-Founder and CEO of Nauta, where she is re-engineering supply chains through clean AI data infrastructure. Previously, Valentina led product for Rappi's largest business segment, helping build and scale the core product stack behind Latin America's largest delivery platform, before bringing that same operational rigor to leadership roles at Amazon. At Nauta, Valentina brings a product-first, systems-level perspective to rethinking how supply chains operate, tackling the industry's most foundational challenge: building clean, structured data infrastructure that enables smarter decision-making.

    About Nauta

    Nauta is the AI-native operating system that connects your inventory, logistics, and procurement data into one intelligent layer. By acting as an intelligent membrane over existing ERP, TMS, and WMS systems, Nauta eliminates "data graveyards" by unifying fragmented data from emails, documents, and spreadsheets into a single source of truth. The platform moves beyond simple visibility, providing SKU-level insights and automated workflows that allow shippers to proactively manage exception handling and cash flow. Trusted by multinational leaders in the food, beverage, and retail sectors including distributors for brands like New Balance, Modelo, and L'Oreal, Nauta manages data for enterprises representing over $15B in annual sales. SOC 2 Type II certified, the platform empowers manufacturers and retailers to reduce container lifecycle times, prevent stockouts, and eliminate costly penalties like detention fees. Nauta's mission is to provide the standardized "rails of data infrastructure" necessary for truly autonomous and resilient global supply chains.

    Key Takeaways: Is Your ERP a Data Graveyard: How to Unlock Millions
    • In "Is Your ERP a Data Graveyard: How to Unlock Millions with Nauta's Valentina Jordan", Joe Lynch and Valentina Jordan, Co-Founder and CEO of Nauta, discuss how structuring fragmented data turns supply chain silos into actionable revenue.
    • The "Data Fragmentation" Mess: Global shippers are stuck with data trapped in emails, PDFs, and clunky legacy systems. This chaos forces teams to waste 75% of their day babysitting spreadsheets instead of making moves that actually scale the business.
    • One Single Source of Truth: Nauta fixes this as an AI-native engine that pulls those messy data streams into one place. From finance to procurement, everyone works off the same live data—killing "tribal knowledge" for good.
    • The Real Cost of Stockouts: For brands like Modelo or L'Oreal, a stockout isn't just a missed sale; it's a hit to your reputation and a massive financial penalty. Nauta shifts you from reactive "firefighting" to proactive prevention.
    • Saving Millions in Revenue: Using predictive analytics, Nauta's inventory engine flags risks weeks in advance. One customer even saved $1.2M in a single quarter by dodging retail penalties and lost sales.
    • Killing "Dry Runs" and Fees: Shippers pay for empty trucks because they can't see what's happening at the port. Nauta's predictive tech and automated communication can slash detention costs by up to 80%.
    • SKU-Level Control: Most platforms track the box; Nauta tracks the product. We map data down to the individual item, so you know exactly which vessel is carrying your high-priority promotional stock.
    • Smarter Procurement: With SKU-level insights, your team can make surgical decisions—like rerouting high-demand items before they even dock—ensuring the right product hits the right shelf every time.
    Learn More About Is Your ERP a Data Graveyard: How to Unlock Millions

    Valentina Jordan | Linkedin

    Nauta | Linkedin

    Nauta

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    5 March 2026, 9:59 pm
  • 49 minutes 13 seconds
    The Logistics of Growth: Scaling Freight Tech Companies with Will Urban

    In "The Logistics of Growth: Scaling Freight Tech Companies", Joe Lynch and Will Urban, Founder and Principal of Will Urban Consulting, discuss the strategic intersection of traditional logistics discipline and high-velocity tech innovation to drive multi-billion dollar scale.

    About Will Urban

    Will Urban is the Founder and Principal of Will Urban Consulting, a premier advisory firm specializing in scaling global logistics and freight tech organizations. With over 30 years of executive leadership experience, Will has navigated the evolution of the industry at the highest levels, holding pivotal roles at both the traditional logistics powerhouse Expeditors and the digital disruptor Flexport. During his tenure as Chief Revenue Officer at Flexport, he was instrumental in driving the company's organic revenue growth from $600 million to over $5 billion. Today, Will leverages his extensive background as a full partner at R7 and a venture partner at firms like Companyon and Nine Realms. He is a deeply connected figure in the supply chain ecosystem, serving as an investor, advisor, and board member for numerous startups and venture capital firms, where he bridges the gap between complex logistics operations and institutional investment.

    About Will Urban Consulting (WUC)

    Will Urban Consulting (WUC) is an elite consultancy dedicated to helping supply chain and freight tech companies master the "Logistics of Growth." Founded by Will Urban following his successful tenure at Flexport, the firm occupies a unique niche by providing executive-level expertise that blends traditional logistics excellence with modern digital scale. WUC is comprised of a global team of specialists—many of whom are veterans of Expeditors and Flexport—who focus on refining go-to-market strategies, accelerating revenue growth, and building sustainable sales organizations. Beyond operational consulting, WUC acts as a strategic bridge to the capital markets, helping startups navigate the complexities of fundraising by leveraging a deep network of venture capital and private equity investors. Operating on a flexible, month-to-month model, WUC provides clients with immediate ROI and unparalleled access to a global network of shippers, carriers, and industry leaders.

    Key Takeaways: The Logistics of Growth: Scaling Freight Tech Companies
    • In "The Logistics of Growth: Scaling Freight Tech Companies", Joe Lynch and Will Urban, Founder and Principal of Will Urban Consulting, discuss the strategic intersection of traditional logistics discipline and high-velocity tech innovation to drive multi-billion dollar scale.
    • The Power of Hybrid Expertise: Will Urban offers a unique "ground-up" perspective by bridging the gap between traditional logistics giants (Expeditors) and modern digital disruptors (Flexport). This dual experience allows him to help companies balance the disciplined, P&L-focused rigor of established firms with the "move fast" agility of tech unicorns.
    • The "Inside Man" for Fundraising: For startups, navigating the VC world is often a translation problem. Will acts as a strategic bridge, helping founders articulate the value of supply chain nuances to generalist investors and ensuring they pitch to the right firms whose investment appetite matches their specific business model.
    • A "Disciplined Grind" for Scaling: There is no "silver bullet" for massive growth. Drawing from his experience leading Flexport from $600 million to over $5 billion in organic revenue, Will emphasizes that scaling requires a disciplined, high-execution grind and a focus on building sustainable, global go-to-market programs.
    • Democratizing Technology (The Convoy/DAT Model): A significant trend in freight tech is the transition from standalone products to integrated ecosystems. The acquisition of Convoy's platform by DAT illustrates how best-in-class technology can be used to drastically reduce the "cost to cover" a load, democratizing high-end tools for smaller trucking operations.
    • Economics Matter (P&L Discipline): Despite the high-growth expectations of venture capital, Will maintains that the P&L always matters. He advises tech companies to align their pricing with the transactional nature of the logistics industry, as many clients prefer transactional costs over fixed, bottom-line software fees.
    • Leveraging Relational Capital: In an increasingly digital industry, deep human networks remain a primary driver of success. Will's 30-year network of shippers, carriers, and executives provides "warm" entry points that are often more valuable than any piece of software for securing market share.
    • Identifying and Investing in "Grit": Beyond just technical viability, Will looks for "gumption" and persistence in founders. His investment philosophy—often through his family office or as a venture partner—prioritizes individuals who demonstrate the hustle and resilience required to survive the volatile cycles of the global supply chain.
    Learn More About The Logistics of Growth: Scaling Freight Tech Companies

    Will Urban | Linkedin

    Will Urban Consulting (WUC) | Linkedin

    Will Urban Consulting (WUC)

    Inside the DAT – Convoy Platform Deal: What This Acquisiton Means for the Freight with Bill Driegert

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast

    3 March 2026, 10:48 pm
  • 1 hour 6 minutes
    An Insider's Guide to Small Parcel Shipping with Glenn Gooding

    In "An Insider's Guide to Small Parcel Shipping", Joe Lynch and Glenn Gooding, Founder of Gooding Supply Chain Advisors and host of the Chain of Command podcast, discuss strategies to navigate today's complex multi-carrier landscape and reduce costs through data-driven optimization.

    About Glenn Gooding

    Glenn Gooding is the Founder of Gooding Supply Chain Advisors and host of the Chain of Command podcast. With 40 years in supply chain and logistics, Glenn brings a rare combination of carrier-side and shipper-side expertise to every engagement. He spent 21 years at UPS in Operations, Industrial Engineering, and Enterprise Pricing before spending 19 years helping shippers optimize their transportation networks — delivering over $500 million in quantified savings across Fortune 50 companies, high-growth eCommerce brands, and third-party logistics providers. Glenn specializes in small parcel, LTL, and truckload optimization, and is known for his carrier-agnostic, data-driven approach to supply chain strategy.

    About Gooding Supply Chain Advisors

    Gooding Supply Chain Advisors helps shippers develop and maintain best-in-class supply chains. Founded in 2025 and built on four decades of industry experience, the firm provides comprehensive optimization services including carrier agreement analysis, rate benchmarking, accessorial cost mitigation, carrier mix optimization, and ongoing contract monitoring. GSCA operates as an extension of the client's team — performing deep analysis, developing negotiation strategy, and building carrier-facing business cases while the client maintains direct carrier relationships. The firm's performance-based fee structure aligns its success with its clients', and its carrier-agnostic approach ensures recommendations are always driven by data, not carrier affiliations.

    Key Takeaways: An Insider's Guide to Small Parcel Shipping
    • In "An Insider's Guide to Small Parcel Shipping", Joe Lynch and Glenn Gooding, Founder of Gooding Supply Chain Advisors and host of the Chain of Command podcast, discuss strategies to navigate today's complex multi-carrier landscape and reduce costs through data-driven optimization.
    • The "Cube-Out" Revolution: Small parcel shipping has shifted from "weighing out" (hitting weight limits) to "cubing out" (filling volume). Because ecommerce packages are often light and bulky, Dimensional (DIM) Weight pricing is now the primary driver of cost. If over 50% of your shipments are billed at DIM weight rather than actual weight, your packaging is unoptimized.
    • The End of the UPS/FedEx Binary: The days of choosing only between UPS and FedEx are over. The 2026 market may require a multi-carrier strategy that includes super-regionals (like OnTrac), postal aggregators, and gig-economy delivery services. Technology now allows shippers to "agnostically" choose the best carrier for every individual package.
    • Zone Skipping for High-Volume Shippers: For subscription boxes or high-density shippers, Zone Skipping is a game-changer. By consolidating orders and trucking them closer to the final destination before handing them off to a local carrier hub, you can bypass expensive long-haul zones and significantly reduce shipping costs.
    • 3PLs Must Evolve Beyond "Rate Reselling": Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are often viewed skeptically by carriers who think they just "cannibalize" margins. To succeed, 3PLs must bring value back to the carrier by providing "efficient" freight—better packaging, lower average zones, and high-density induction—rather than just asking for deeper discounts.
    • The "Opaque" Reality of Rate Increases: General Rate Increases (GRIs) are often marketing numbers. A "5.9% increase" might actually cost a specific shipper 8% or 10% depending on their specific profile (e.g., lightweight vs. heavy, residential vs. commercial). You must analyze activity-based costing to understand how surcharges and accessorials impact your specific bottom line.
    • Shipping as a Branding Tool: Transportation can represent up to 20% of an ecommerce company's expenses. However, the delivery experience is the "final mile" of customer service. High-growth brands are using AI-curated buying experiences coupled with transparent delivery choices (speed vs. cost) to drive customer lifetime value.
    • Mastering the Cold Chain: Shipping perishable or temperature-sensitive goods (like fresh meals or frozen treats) requires a "surgical" induction plan. Success depends on using refrigerated truckload moves to specific hubs on specific days to ensure products never sit in a warehouse over a weekend, which would otherwise destroy product integrity.
    Learn More About An Insider's Guide to Small Parcel Shipping

    Glenn Gooding | Linkedin

    Gooding Supply Chain Advisors

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast

    25 February 2026, 10:14 pm
  • 58 minutes 59 seconds
    The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year with Logisyn's CEO Ron Lentz

    In "The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year with Logisyn's CEO Ron Lentz", Joe Lynch and Ron Lentz, CEO of Logisyn Advisors, discuss how $4 trillion in untapped capital and industry consolidation are driving a major wave of logistics exits.

    About Ron Lentz

    Ron Lentz is a founding partner and CEO of Logisyn Advisors, recognized as a logistics subject matter expert with over 40 years of industry experience. His deep knowledge of capital markets, combined with an extensive global network spanning logistics firms, private equity, family funds, and debt financing, enables him to help clients maximize returns across all M&A services. Ron's expertise covers key logistics sub-sectors, including e-commerce fulfillment, asset-light logistics, final-mile delivery, 3PLs, specialty hauling, air cargo, and freight forwarding. His career includes international executive leadership at Ryder Logistics, over a decade of C-level assignments, and a track record of transforming Fortune 500 companies, startups, and turnarounds into high-performing businesses.

    About Logisyn Advisors

    Logisyn Advisors is an M&A advisor specializing in the transportation and logistics sector. The firm's customers include global freight forwarders, customs house brokers, domestic forwarders, trucking companies, logistics software providers, and many other companies across the industry. Logisyn provides a variety of M&A services, including buy-side advisory for companies looking to grow through acquisition, sell-side advisory for entrepreneurs looking to exit and capitalize on the businesses they've built, and enterprise valuation services for managers looking to gain a better understanding of the value of their business. The company has a proven track record of advising executives navigating the M&A process and is actively engaged with leading companies across the logistics industry.

    Key Takeaways: The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year
    • In "The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year with Logisyn's CEO Ron Lentz", Joe Lynch and Ron Lentz, CEO of Logisyn Advisors, discuss how $4 trillion in untapped capital and industry consolidation are driving a major wave of logistics exits.
    • The Power of "Logistics-First" Specialization: Unlike "industry agnostic" investment banks, Logisyn only hires former operators who understand the intricate day-to-day realities of the supply chain. Ron emphasizes that a generalist banker can cause a "generalist penalty," where the unique operational value and specialized assets of a logistics firm are lost in translation during a deal.
    • The $4 Trillion "Dry Powder" Catalyst: A massive driver for the 2026 rebound is the estimated $4 trillion in global private equity "dry powder." Much of this is older capital that firms must "use or lose," creating a high-pressure environment for acquisitions in fragmented markets like transportation.
    • The "Six Ps" of Market Readiness: Ron lives by the mantra: Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance. Success requires "staging the house" by cleaning up these financials 12–24 months before an exit.
    • Asset-Based Logistics is Primed for a Bull Run: While freight brokerage is facing a "leaner and meaner" period due to AI and fee transparency, Ron is incredibly bullish on asset-based carriers. As driver shortages persist and capital costs for equipment remain high, those who actually control the trucks will hold the most leverage in the coming year.
    • Cultural Compatibility is the #1 Deal Killer: Citing PWC data, Ron highlights that cultural alignment is the primary reason mergers succeed or fail. For entrepreneurs, selling isn't just a financial transaction; it's "giving up their baby." A successful M&A advisor acts as much as a counselor as a banker to ensure the legacy remains intact.
    • The "Jigsaw Puzzle" Strategy for Buyers: Strategic acquisitions in 2026 are moving away from simple "growth for growth's sake." Buyers are looking for specific "jigsaw pieces"—such as a niche cold chain specialty in the Southeast or a robust tech stack—to create a "pure play" offering that doesn't require a "fixer-upper" effort.
    • The Death of the "Country Club" Broker: The complexity of modern logistics—from AI-driven RFPs to real-time WMS integration—means owners can no longer rely on a general business broker or a "golfing buddy" to sell their company. To maximize the 8x to 10x multiples, founders need advisors who can navigate the deep-dive diligence of tech-savvy private equity buyers.
    Learn More About The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year

    Ron Lentz | Linkedin

    Logisyn Advisors | Linkedin

    Logisyn Advisors

    Customer Testimonials

    Logistics M&A Club Events

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    20 February 2026, 8:28 pm
  • 1 hour 21 seconds
    The Career Accelerator: Why Leaders Choose TMSA with Jennifer Karpus-Romain

    In "The Career Accelerator: Why Leaders Choose TMSA", Joe Lynch and Jennifer Karpus-Romain, Executive Director at the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), discuss how specialized community and education drive logistics success. Growth follows connection.

    About Jennifer Karpus-Romain

    Jennifer serves as the Executive Director at the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA) and as an adjunct professor at Cuyahoga Community College teaching social media. Previously, she was Director of Marketing for Faye, a software integration firm, and has also held roles in the publishing and marketing industries, and managed her own content and publishing firm. Karpus-Romain has her Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Ohio University and received her MBA from Capella University.

    About Transportation Marketing and Sales Association (TMSA)

    Sales and marketing professionals in the logistics and transportation industry come to the Transportation Marketing and Sales Association (TMSA)as the place to learn, to grow, to have fun together and to make lasting connections. Members enjoy access to live events, virtual forums and exclusive member-only benefits. The association was founded in 1924 and has gone through many names and iterations throughout the years, but it's mission to be the resource for its members has never changed.

    Key Takeaways: The Career Accelerator: Why Leaders Choose TMSA
    • In "The Career Accelerator: Why Leaders Choose TMSA", Joe Lynch and Jennifer Karpus-Romain, Executive Director at the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), discuss how specialized community and education drive logistics success. Growth follows connection.
    • A Century of Evolution: The TMSA isn't a "new kid on the block." Founded in 1924 (originally focused on railroad advertising), the association has spent over 102 years evolving alongside the industry. While the name has changed to reflect modern logistics, its core mission—to be the premier resource for sales and marketing professionals—has remained constant.
    • The New "Track-Based" Educational Model: To provide better ROI, the TMSA has moved away from a one-size-fits-all approach. They now offer five distinct tracks: 1. Company Leader, 2. Sales Leader, 3. Sales Practitioner, 4. Marketing Leader, 5. Marketing Practitioner
    • The Track-Based approach ensures that whether you are a solo marketer or a VP of Sales, you are networking and learning with peers facing your specific daily challenges.
    • "Human First" Leadership in an AI World: Jennifer emphasizes that while tools like ChatGPT (which she humorously calls "Atlas") are vital for efficiency—especially for small teams—the human element is the true differentiator. In an era of automated emails and AI-generated content, leaders choose TMSA to learn how to keep their brand voice authentic and human.
    • The "Tech Mic Drop" & AI Showdown: Rather than traditional, dry keynotes, the upcoming Elevate Conference (June 7–9 in Denver) features a technology showdown. Competitors must present real-world results and efficiencies rather than just sales pitches. This helps members cut through the "noise" of the saturated logistics tech market.
    • Bridging the Sales and Marketing Gap: A major theme of the interview is the "merger" of sales and marketing (or "Smarketing"). Jennifer points out that marketing should be creating "sales enablement" content—like simple infographics—that salespeople actually use, while sales should be providing feedback on lead quality to create a unified revenue-generating engine.
    • Real Insights from Shipper Panels: One of the highest-value segments of their events is the Shipper Panel. Jennifer explains that they bring in actual big-name shippers who give "brutally honest" feedback. This is a rare opportunity for sales and marketing teams to hear exactly how shippers want to be approached—and more importantly, what "cringe-worthy" tactics to avoid.
    • Professional Development as a "Career Accelerator": For "teams of one" or those in "flyover states," TMSA provides a sense of community. Beyond just learning, it offers leadership opportunities through committee work that professionals might not get at their day jobs. Jennifer views the association as a place to "sharpen the sword" so members are ready when market conditions (like the recent freight recession) finally turn around.
    Learn More About The Career Accelerator: Why Leaders Choose TMSA

    Jennifer Karpus-Romain | Linkedin

    TMSA | Linkedin

    TMSA homepage

    TMSA membership page

    TMSA ELEVATE Event Page

    TMSA Membership Page that highlights Tracks

    Elevating Transportation Sales and Marketing with Jennifer Karpus-Romain | The Logistics of Logistics

    TMSA Key Takeaways with Jennifer Karpus-Romain | The Logistics of Logistics

    Building a Freight Sales & Marketing Community with Jennifer Karpus-Romain

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    18 February 2026, 7:33 pm
  • 53 minutes 29 seconds
    REPOST: Inside the DAT - Convoy Platform Deal: What This Acquisiton Means for the Freight Market with Bill Driegert

    In "Inside the DAT - Convoy Platform Deal: What This Acquisiton Means for the Freight Market", Joe Lynch and Bill Driegert, EVP of Convoy Platform - DAT Freight & Analytics, discuss how the integration of the Convoy Platform's automation and AI technology with DAT's massive freight marketplace will help brokers combat fraud, increase efficiency, and focus on high-value work.

    About Bill Driegert

    Bill Driegert is the EVP of Convoy Platform at DAT Freight & Analytics. He was previously the EVP of Trucking at Flexport and the co-founder and Head of Operations at Uber Freight, Uber's logistics business. Bill began his career in freight as the fourth employee at Coyote Logistics (acquired by UPS), where he grew the role to Chief Innovation Officer. Prior to joining Uber, he served as COO at Pillow Homes. He also spent time at Amazon as Director of Planning and Innovation. Bill holds an M.A. in Supply Chain from MIT, an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago, and a B.A. from Southern Methodist University.

    About DAT Freight & Analytics

    DAT Freight & Analytics operates the DAT One truckload freight marketplace; Convoy Platform, an automated freight-matching technology; DAT iQ analytics service; Trucker Tools load-visibility platform; and Outgo factoring and financial services for truckers. Shippers, transportation brokers, carriers, news organizations, and industry analysts rely on DAT for market trends and data insights, informed by nearly 700,000 daily load posts and a database exceeding $1 trillion in freight market transactions. Founded in 1978, DAT is a business unit of Roper Technologies (Nasdaq: ROP), a constituent of the Nasdaq 100, S&P 500, and Fortune 1000. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, DAT continues to set the standard for innovation in the trucking and logistics industry. Visit dat.com for more information.

    Key Takeaways: Inside the DAT - Convoy Platform Deal: What This Acquisiton Means for the Freight Market
    • In "Inside the DAT - Convoy Platform Deal: What This Acquisiton Means for the Freight Market", Joe Lynch and Bill Driegert, EVP of Convoy Platform - DAT Freight & Analytics, discuss how the integration of the Convoy Platform's automation and AI technology with DAT's massive freight marketplace will help brokers combat fraud, increase efficiency, and focus on high-value work.
    • Solving Major Brokerage Challenges: The acquisition of the Convoy Platform is a strategic move by DAT to help freight brokers tackle significant industry challenges like fraud, the need for increased automation, and the integration of AI.
    • Automation for Efficiency: By integrating the Convoy Platform, DAT aims to automate routine tasks, which will allow brokers to dedicate more time to complex, high-value work, such as building relationships with clients and carriers.
    • Enhanced Fraud Prevention: The deal combines the Convoy Platform's advanced, machine-learning-powered fraud prevention technology with DAT's extensive network and data. This fusion is intended to create a safer and more secure environment for freight transactions.
    • Augmenting the DAT One Platform: The Convoy technology will be incorporated into DAT's flagship product, DAT One. This integration will offer brokers and carriers new automated capabilities while ensuring that the core, familiar functions of the load board remain unchanged.
    • Leveraging Bill Driegert's Expertise: Bill Driegert's background, including his leadership roles at Uber Freight and Coyote Logistics, is a crucial asset for DAT. His experience as a technologist and innovator in the freight industry is key to the successful integration and future development of the Convoy Platform.
    • The Practical Role of AI: The interview clarifies that AI is not just a buzzword but a practical tool for improving freight operations. The technology will be used to enhance decision-making, optimize processes, and increase overall efficiency for the brokers DAT serves.
    • Building a Comprehensive Ecosystem: The Convoy acquisition is part of a larger plan to unify DAT's recent acquisitions, including Trucker Tools and Outgo. The goal is to create a complete, integrated ecosystem that provides solutions for everything from freight matching and payment processing to carrier tracking and automation.
    Learn More About Inside the DAT - Convoy Platform Deal: What This Acquisiton Means for the Freight Market

    Bill Driegert | Linkedin

    DAT Freight & Analytics | Linkedin

    DAT

    DAT - Convoy Platform

    Convoy Platform - DAT

    DAT + The Convoy Platform: A new chapter in our marketplace evolution

    Infographic: Modernize your brokerage

    MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics with Chris Caplice

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    A Trillion Dollars in Freight Transactions with Ken Adamo

    DAT iQ: The Metrics that Matter with Samuel Parker

    Taking the Uncertainty and Risk Out of Freight with Erika Voss

    The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
    12 February 2026, 9:24 pm
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