Supply Chain Now

As supply chains expand across global networks, the next generation of leaders is being trained to think beyond trucks and warehouses, toward the broader constraints shaping business today. Dr. Morgan Swink, West Chair, Professor of SCM and Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Innovation at Texas Christian University’s Neeley School of Business, joins Supply Chain Now alongside three standout seniors, Ava Scotchie, Joshua Ahn, and Cort Comer, to share what they’re seeing in real time as they prepare to enter the industry. In this Now Generation conversation, Scott Luton and Dr. Swink explore what makes TCU’s supply chain program so distinctive, from high-touch faculty mentorship and curriculum that mirrors real workplace ambiguity, to site visits, case competitions, and capstone projects designed to deliver real value to companies. The students share how these experiences have shaped their confidence, career direction, and readiness to lead. They also dig into the trends these emerging professionals are watching most closely: reverse logistics and the rising cost of returns, sustainability and ethical visibility across multi-tier suppliers, and the growing energy and infrastructure demands driven by AI and data center expansion. The episode highlights how supply chain thinking is evolving, and why the leaders who can connect operations, ethics, and resource constraints will be the ones who shape what comes next. Jump into the conversation: 00:00) Intro (01:43) Spotlight on TCU’s supply chain program (02:14) Meet the student leaders of supply chain (03:32) Ava discusses her passion for supply chain (04:05) Joshua shares his global supply chain journey (04:36) Cort focuses on energy and supply chain (12:10) Dr. Swink’s vision for the program (14:26) Students discuss top supply chain trends (23:52) Career goals and making a lasting impact (26:33) Joshua on driving supply chain sustainability (28:03) Career advice for aspiring supply chain leaders (29:59) Cort on energy’s role in supply chain (38:21) Ava reflects on TCU’s hands-on learning (47:28) Building meaningful supply chain connections Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-swink-8331ab11/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ava-scotchiehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajahn/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cort-comer

Global trade policy is shifting, digital infrastructure demand is exploding, and the next frontier of supply chain operations may literally be off-planet. From tariffs to terabytes to orbiting technology, the pace of change isn’t slowing down anytime soon, welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost! In this episode, Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson break down a potential U.S.–India trade agreement and what it could mean for sourcing strategies, tariffs, and global partnerships. The conversation then turns to the rapid growth of data center infrastructure across the United States, why certain regions have become critical digital logistics hubs, and how AI is accelerating demand for computing capacity. Finally, the hosts explore a bold emerging concept: space-based data centers — and how advancements in energy efficiency, cooling, and scalability could reshape long-term supply chain strategy. Tune in to learn: Whether you’re a supply chain practitioner, technology leader, strategist, or simply trying to keep pace with where operations and innovation are heading, this episode will help you connect the dots between trade policy, infrastructure investment, and the next era of global supply chains. Additional Links & Resources: https://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowhttps://supplychainnow.com/joinhttps://bit.ly/3XH6OVk This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Ricard Donaldson, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-tariffs-terabytes-final-frontier-1545

Warehouse operations often highlight the gap between business strategy and execution, particularly as small and mid-sized companies grow. Challenges like fulfillment pressure, inventory inaccuracies, and manual workarounds can turn warehouses into bottlenecks that hinder organizational efficiency. When teams lose confidence in their data, scaling becomes more difficult, leaving leadership reactive instead of proactive. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton speaks with Kurt Heusner, CEO of Endpoint Automation Solutions, about warehouse execution in the SMB market. Kurt discusses his experience with growth-focused businesses and emphasizes the importance of time-to-value, adoption, and simplicity over complexity. He explains how trust in systems affects team performance and why warehouses often reveal operational challenges first. The conversation also addresses ERP warehouse modules versus standalone WMS solutions as complexity grows, modular implementation approaches, the ongoing significance of barcoding, and how newer technologies fit into modernization strategies. The episode concludes with insights into Endpoint’s peer communities and grant programs designed to enhance warehouse execution without disrupting daily operations. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:36) Meet Kurt Heusner: career and insights (02:52) Kurt Heusner’s passion for music explained (04:58) Kurt's journey in SMB technology industry (06:22) Warehouse automation: SMBs’ needs and insights (10:46) Cultural impact on technology implementation (11:31) Serving SMBs: key challenges uncovered (14:56) Evolution of endpoint automation solutions explained (17:16) Modular approach to WMS for success (19:30) Final thoughts on SMB problem-solving (23:56) Experience and continuous learning in tech (24:36) The history and evolution of barcoding (26:05) Barcoding's role in modern supply chains (29:06) Integrating technologies with barcoding in operations (31:39) Signs your ERP system needs upgrading (34:05) Building trust in tech and teams (39:33) Peer communities and learning program value (43:00) Grant programs for small manufacturers explained Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtheusner/https://endpointas.com/https://supplychainnow.com https://supplychainnow.com/abouthttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now

As manufacturing and supply chain industries evolve, events like MODEX 2026 are key in connecting professionals, driving innovation, and showcasing trends. With growing demands for efficiency, sustainability, and advanced tech, face-to-face gatherings offer vital opportunities to learn, compare solutions, and build relationships. MODEX stands as one of the largest platforms in North America, uniting exhibitors, educators, and live demos in a way hard to replicate elsewhere. In this episode, Scott W. Luton welcomes Daniel McKinnon, Chief Exhibitions Officer at MHI, for a behind-the-scenes look at MODEX 2026. Daniel discusses how MHI supports the industry year-round through standards, safety, and workforce development, and why face-to-face events remain essential for learning and networking. He also previews what attendees can expect in Atlanta, including how MODEX brings together exhibitors, education, and live demos on a grand scale. They also explore what's new at MODEX 2026, April 13 to 16 at the Georgia World Congress Center, including free registration, 200+ seminars, keynotes with Richard McPhail, Salim Ismail, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., and MHI Industry Night with Jim Gaffigan. Daniel shares advice for first-timers and returning attendees, from planning meetings to carving out time for networking on the show floor. He also highlights on-site experiences to recharge and connect, including lounges, food options, and the startup spotlight. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (03:00) Golf talk with Daniel (06:28) Daniel’s role at MHI (10:22) The importance of MODEX (15:02) The evolution of MODEX (18:58) What’s new at MODEX 2026 (24:22) Industry night and special guests (26:06) Growth and exhibitors (27:08) Experiential activations and lounges (29:13) Event apps and navigation (31:04) Attendee profiles and solutions (34:24) First-time attendee tips (38:03) Returning attendee tips Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-mckinnon-125691/https://www.mhi.org/https://www.modexshow.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/https://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now

The global supply chain landscape is shifting once again, and today, we break down the economic signals, market movements, and leadership strategies shaping what’s next. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost! Hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy dive into the latest U.S. trade data, including a widening trade deficit that highlights the growing complexity of global commerce and policy. The conversation also explores renewed momentum in the warehouse market, with signs that companies are doubling down on long-term infrastructure and capacity planning. From looming shortages in critical minerals, medical supplies, and semiconductors to rising cost pressures in 2026, this episode unpacks what supply chain leaders need to be preparing for now. The discussion continues with insights from the World Economic Forum in Davos on the challenge of scaling AI across large enterprises, revealing why technology alone isn’t enough without the right organizational design and leadership mindset. Plus, Dyci Sfregola, Founder and CEO of New Gen Architects, joins the show to share how collaboration, executive alignment, and intentional change management are key to building resilient, future-ready supply chains. If you’re navigating uncertainty, investing in innovation, and building for long-term success, this episode delivers timely insights and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss. Additional Links & Resources: https://www.easypost.com/https://streamyard.com/watch/QtED7yJ4y9qWhttps://bit.ly/WTS-1-Feb-2026https://bit.ly/Meet-CycleLabs-At-Manifesthttps://cnb.cx/45GYb2Jhttps://bit.ly/3M7kyb1https://bit.ly/Shortages-And-RisingCostshttps://amzn.to/3LXI36lhttps://bit.ly/3O4sMkJhttps://bit.ly/Education-Problem-Reverse-Logistics

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 Remade in America, hosted by Deborah Dull, Supply Chain Now 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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahdull/https://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowhttps://supplychainnow.com/joinhttps://bit.ly/3XH6OVkhttps://bit.ly/4pOGgyohttps://bit.ly/3YLFGq7 This episode is hosted by Deborah Dull and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, Ric Stringer, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/remade-america-1541

Operating conditions in advanced manufacturing are changing fast as organizations push to modernize operations while navigating quality requirements, long lead times, and increasingly complex supply chains. As leaders look to apply AI across the physical world, many discover that technology alone is not enough. Success depends on strong operating fundamentals, clean master data, and a culture that aligns teams around execution, accountability, and continuous improvement. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by special guest host Wiley Jones to kick off a new 2026 series, Enterprise Unleashed, powered by the DOSS team. Together, they sit down with Garuth Acharya, investor at 8090 Industries and former operator with experience across GE, SpaceX, and Blue Origin, to explore what it really takes to build AI ready operations in advanced manufacturing. The conversation examines why AI initiatives often fail in industrial environments when data hygiene is weak, and why clean, correct, actionable data and disciplined master data practices are foundational to any successful transformation. The discussion also emphasizes practical ways AI can unlock value, from accelerating work instructions to improving shortage detection, surfacing procurement anomalies, and strengthening quality feedback loops. The panel returns to the human side of transformation: mission alignment, cross functional collaboration, clear ownership, and spending time on the shop floor before deciding what to build, buy, or partner for. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (00:47) Introducing the new series for 2026 (01:32) Focus on AI-ready operations and advanced manufacturing (02:44) Special guest: Garuth Acharya (03:31) Guru's background and career journey (04:31) Rattlesnake wrestling and early career adventures (06:52) Experiences at SpaceX and Blue Origin (10:27) The importance of culture in high-stakes environments (14:59) AI in manufacturing and supply chain (20:10) Challenges and solutions in AI implementation (25:17) The importance of clean master data (26:22) Engineering and production challenges (27:26) Operational insights and red flags (29:47) Building a culture of clarity and ownership (33:35) Prioritizing modernizing operations (41:42) Advice for AI-ready operations Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wileycwjones/https://www.doss.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/garuthacharya/https://www.8090industries.com/

The pace of change in global supply chains isn’t slowing down — and on this week’s episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker are back to break down the headlines, trends, and real-world implications leaders need to watch. From winter storms in metro Atlanta to rising cost pressures and workforce challenges, this episode cuts through the noise to explore what’s shaping supply chain strategy in 2026 and beyond. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EPG! Scott and Marty welcome featured guest, Heidi Benko, VP Product Management and Strategy for Infor Nexus, to join in diving into the biggest stories impacting supply chains today — and what they mean for operators, planners, and executives alike. Together, they discuss: The episode also spotlights Infor’s recognition as a leader in global trade management and offers a look ahead at the innovations shaping what’s next. Tune in for timely insights, thoughtful analysis, and practical takeaways to help you stay ahead in an increasingly unpredictable supply chain landscape. Additional Links & Resources: https://epg.com/https://bit.ly/WTS-25-JAN-2026https://www.alanaid.org/operations/https://streamyard.com/watch/yrx5yigeuzvFhttps://bit.ly/4sYCGV9https://bit.ly/scn-usbank-wts

Operating conditions in the freight and logistics industry are evolving rapidly, driven by shifting market dynamics and ongoing disruptions. With the freight market's volatility, capacity constraints, and changing cost structures, leaders must adapt quickly to make informed decisions and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly uncertain environment. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by special guest host Jake Barr. Together, they talk to Bobby Holland, Vice President/Director of Freight Business Analytics at U.S. Bank, and Dr. Chris Caplice, Chief Scientist at DAT Freight & Analytics, to dive deep into the inaugural Q1 2026 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index (Rates Edition), a comprehensive resource that provides crucial insights into freight rates, spot and contract rates, fuel prices, and more. The panel explores how supply chain leaders can leverage this data to optimize freight strategies, anticipate market shifts, and make data-driven decisions with confidence. The discussion also highlights the importance of scenario analysis and flexibility in managing supply chain risks, emphasizing how agility can turn disruption into opportunity. The conversation wraps up with practical takeaways on building more resilient supply chains, improving forecasting accuracy, and preparing for the next phase of freight market evolution. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:24) Introducing the Q1 2026 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index Rates Edition (02:52) Meet the experts Bobby and Chris (03:26) Fun warmup: Football playoff talk (06:05) Exploring DAT Freight and Analytics (07:32) Understanding the US Freight Payment Index (13:11) Spot vs. contract rates: Key insights (16:11) National and regional freight market trends (22:26) Agricultural impact on spot rates (22:59) Regional driver challenges and shortages (23:46) Treasury data and regional observations (24:50) Actions supply chain leaders should take (29:02) Future predictions and tariff impacts (33:35) Manufacturing activity and automation (41:04) Leadership takeaways from the panel Additional Links & Resources: https://www.usbank.com/corporate-and-commercial-banking/industry-expertise/transportation/freight-payment-insights.html?ecid=OTHE_80042https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barr-3883501/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland-4a9355/

As the trucking industry continues to evolve, drivers and industry leaders must stay ahead of technological advancements and trends to remain competitive. With a history spanning over 50 years, Dave Nemo, a legendary radio host and current on-air host at Radio Nemo, has dedicated his career to engaging and educating truckers about the industry’s most pressing issues. His career has navigated through the transition from AM radio to satellite and now streaming, providing content that is purpose-built for professional drivers. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton and special guest host Tony Sciarrotta sit down with Dave Nemo to dive into his legendary broadcasting career and discuss how he has shaped the trucking community through his diverse media platforms. They explore the importance of adapting to new technologies, the evolution of trucking media, and how Dave’s storytelling connects with drivers nationwide. They talk about the intersection of trucking and technology, highlighting how advancements such as satellite radio and streaming have transformed the way drivers stay informed, entertained, and safe on the road. They also discuss Dave's insights into the impact of AI on the trucking industry and how drivers can benefit from embracing new digital tools. This conversation highlights the significance of continuously adapting to changes in the industry, where innovation and communication will continue to shape the future of trucking. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:17) Today's special guest: Dave Nemo (02:20) Dave Nemo's broadcasting career beginnings (06:54) Musical influences and New Orleans culture (13:04) Early career and military service insights (17:13) Dave's transition to trucking radio (21:52) Joining XM radio and Road Dog (34:27) The evolution of trucking radio (46:14) Memorable listener interactions with Dave (54:29) Key challenges in the trucking industry (58:38) Advice for future trucking broadcasters (01:03:09) Final reflections on broadcast Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-nemo-582294231/https://www.radionemo.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-sciarrotta-235570/https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/https://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now

The supply chain landscape continues to shift at record speed, and on today’s episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter unpack the leadership decisions, technology investments, and strategic partnerships shaping what’s next for global supply chains. From the evolving relationship between Amazon and UPS to the growing influence of AI in procurement, this episode cuts through the noise to focus on what’s practical, scalable, and impactful. Welcome to The Buzz powered by EPG! Scott and Kim dive into the biggest stories influencing supply chain strategy today, with help from special guest Scott McFee, CEO of SpendHQ. Together, they discuss: This episode offers timely insights for executives navigating change, technology adoption, and organizational resilience — with practical takeaways to help teams lead with clarity, purpose, and confidence in an increasingly complex world. Additional Links & Resources: https://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowhttps://supplychainnow.com/joinhttps://bit.ly/3XH6OVk This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter and produced by . For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com

Automation is showing up everywhere in supply chain planning, but the winners aren’t the ones automating the most. They’re the ones choosing the right decisions to automate, bringing people along early, and using AI to build speed and confidence in planning. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and special guest host Karin Bursa, CEO of NIRAKIO, welcome Noha Samara, Senior Director, Global Supply Chain at Gartner, to share key takeaways from the Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit in Denver. Noha unpacks why AI is shifting from “side experiment” to a core part of planning’s operating model, and why the most successful organizations define a clear human-machine strategy instead of trying to “spread AI like peanut butter.” The conversation spotlights the “people side” of transformation: change management, capability-building, and involving planners early so AI is implemented with teams, not to them. The group also dives into end-to-end data and scenario-driven range planning, including how top performers extend those range discussions with suppliers, customers, and trading partners. They close by emphasizing agility through targeted automation, clarity on humans “in/on/off the loop,” and why leaders can’t afford to sit on the sidelines as the pace of disruption and innovation accelerates. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:35) Key takeaways from the Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit (07:24) Discussion on AI and human-machine strategy (08:59) Change management in transformation (10:25) Continuous transformation (13:34) Reflections from top supply chain organizations (18:32) Powering agility with automation (21:08) Defining the role of AI (27:21) Meaningful automation in business (29:17) Leadership and change management (36:31) Touchless manufacturing and practical AI applications (41:21) Reimagining supply chain resilience Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noha-samara-4864863/https://www.gartner.com/enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karinbursa/https://www.linkedin.com/company/nirakio/

Operating conditions for supply chains continue to shift faster than most organizations can plan for. Labor pressures, evolving customer expectations, geopolitical uncertainty, and increasingly complex global networks are forcing leaders to rethink how decisions get made and how teams stay aligned when certainty is no longer guaranteed. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mario Morhy, Vice President, Integrated Planning at Sam’s Club, Mike Gomes, Vice President of Supply Chain North America at Perfetti Van Melle, and Rodrigo Alponti, Senior Vice President Global Supply Chain at STADA Group. Together, they reflect on how supply chain leadership has evolved over the past year, moving away from linear optimization toward adaptability, resilience, and closer collaboration with customers and partners. The panel also explores how AI is accelerating the pace of insight and action, enabling faster scenario planning, stronger visibility, and more empowered teams. Rather than replacing people, AI emerges as a decision-making copilot, freeing leaders to focus on risk, tradeoffs, and long-term value. The conversation closes with practical leadership takeaways on learning faster than competitors, asking better questions, and building cultures that can turn volatility into advantage. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (02:58) Mike Gomes shares supply chain leadership insights (04:16) Rodrigo Alponti's global supply chain perspective (06:20) Mario Morhy's role at Sam's Club (08:18) Supply chain challenges and innovations discussed (18:05) Customer centricity in the never normal (25:18) Current challenges in today's supply chain (30:12) Walmart's AI integration in supply chain (32:01) AI as a copilot for supply chain employees (38:07) Transforming volatility into competitive advantage (43:02) Key questions leaders should ask their teams Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariomorhy/https://www.samsclub.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-gomes-282228/https://www.perfettivanmelle.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigo-alponti-a9873/

The future of supply chain is entering a pivotal moment, and in this episode of Supply Chain Now, we unpack the trends, risks, and realities that will define 2026 and beyond. From geopolitical uncertainty and economic turbulence to shifting trade policy, energy innovation, and workforce challenges, this conversation cuts through the headlines to focus on what supply chain leaders must be ready for now. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EPG! Listen in as hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr break down the most critical forces reshaping global supply chains — and what they mean for strategy, resilience, and execution in an increasingly volatile world. They’re joined by special guest Tanzil Uddin, Senior Vice President of Content and Partnerships at Manifest, who brings a unique perspective on industry leadership, community, and the broader role supply chains play in society. Together, they discuss: Tune in for a timely, thought-provoking discussion that connects strategy, technology, and social responsibility — and challenges supply chain leaders to stay agile, informed, and purpose-driven as they navigate what’s next. Additional Links & Resources: https://epg.com/https://bit.ly/WTS-11-JAN-2026https://www.alanaid.org/operations/https://partner.manife.st/partner/supplychainnowhttps://bit.ly/2026-SCM-Trendshttps://bit.ly/3LvCDiH

Welcome to 2026 — and welcome to Supply Chain Now. In this episode, we kick off the new year by welcoming new listeners and sharing how you can engage with one of the world’s most active supply chain communities. We reflect on an incredible 2025, including our milestone of ranking in the top 1% of podcasts globally, and break down what makes Supply Chain Now unique — from three weekly podcast episodes to live streams, webinars, and conversations that bring supply chain professionals together from around the world. Looking ahead, we tease what’s coming next in 2026, including new miniseries, fresh formats, and a continued focus on innovation, connection, and meaningful industry dialogue. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or you’re just discovering the show, this episode is your invitation to plug in, join the conversation, and help shape what’s next for the global supply chain community. Additional Links & Resources: https://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/our-team-and-hosts/https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowhttps://supplychainnow.com/joinhttps://bit.ly/3XH6OVkhttps://bit.ly/3Yodf0Zhttps://bit.ly/4iVb4vlhttps://bit.ly/4s634vN This episode is 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/unveiling-future-supply-chain-primer-2026-1532

Supply chains around the world are navigating relentless disruption, rising expectations for speed and resilience, and rapid advances in AI-driven decision-making. Leaders are under pressure to move beyond experimentation and deliver measurable value faster than ever. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton sits down with two industry leaders: Philip Vervloesem, Chief Commercial & Markets Officer at OMP, and Scott Barnard, Managing Director at Bluecrux, live from the Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit in Denver. Drawing on their work across global enterprises, both guests discuss how organizations translate advanced planning concepts into real-world results. The interviews with Philip and Scott explore the evolution toward autonomous, data-driven planning, the importance of self-funding ROI models, and why successful transformation depends on blending human expertise with machine intelligence. From OMP’s Unison platform and rapid value delivery approach to Bluecrux’s AI-powered analytics and decision intelligence capabilities, the conversation highlights how supply chain leaders can move from surface-level automation to profound, scalable impact. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (00:19) Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit overview (01:15) Interview with Philip Vervloesem from OMP (02:05) OMP's approach to supply chain optimization (03:52) Challenges and innovations in supply chain (08:09) Interview with Scott Barnard from Bluecrux (09:03) Bluecrux's Solutions and Innovations (11:08) AI and supply chain balance (13:33) Upcoming events Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipvervloesemhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-barnard-a350814/https://www.omp.comhttps://www.bluecrux.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/abouthttps://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowhttps://supplychainnow.com/joinhttps://bit.ly/3XH6OVk This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua...

The future of supply chain is entering a defining chapter, and today, we dig into the signals, shifts, and strategic decisions shaping what’s ahead in 2026. From ongoing trade volatility and labor disruptions to the accelerating role of AI and integrated planning, this episode cuts through the noise to focus on what leaders must prepare for now. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EPG! Listen in as hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa break down the most important developments influencing global supply chains — and how leaders can build resilience in the face of constant disruption. They’re joined by special guest Alex Pradhan, Founder of Alchemy Advisors, who brings practical perspective on how organizations are adapting strategy, technology, and decision-making for what’s next. Together, they discuss: Tune in as we connect the dots, challenge assumptions, and explore what these trends mean for manufacturers, retailers, and supply chain leaders preparing for 2026 and beyond. Additional Links & Resources: https://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowhttps://supplychainnow.com/joinhttps://bit.ly/3XH6OVk This episode is 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

As global supply chains navigate through cybersecurity threats and rapid technological integration, companies must rethink their strategies to stay competitive. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting corporate systems through sophisticated tactics, such as email infiltration, to gain access to sensitive data, including bills of lading. This underscores the need for organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity and ensure their supply chains remain secure. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Karin Bursa sit down with Gustav Khambatta, SVP, Head of Freight Payment Sales at U.S. Bank, to explore key themes in supply chain management. They discuss the evolving role of cybersecurity, AI's impact on the industry, and the challenges posed by cargo theft and security breaches. They talk about the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, highlighting how technology is transforming business operations. AI is being integrated into supply chain processes, with use cases ranging from fraud prevention to streamlining document verification. However, as AI adoption accelerates, so does the potential for security vulnerabilities. The conversation underscores the importance of continuous adaptation in a rapidly changing supply chain landscape, where technology and security will play a central role in shaping the future. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (04:02) Sports talk: Patriots, Falcons, F1 (06:19) Gustav’s professional journey (08:01) US Bank Freight Payment Index insights (14:39) Cybersecurity in the corporate world (20:22) AI in supply chain and cybersecurity (23:28) AI and cybersecurity integration (24:08) Regulatory environment and leadership challenges (24:38) Supply chain evolution and technology (27:26) AI in supply chain management (29:35) Reflections on 2025 (32:29) Energy demand and AI (37:02) Predictions for 2026 Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustav-khambatta-384852/https://www.usbank.com/index.htmlbit.ly/scn-us-bankhttps://supplychainnow.comhttps://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowhttps://supplychainnow.com/join

Disruptions in global supply chains, from trade uncertainties to the rapid integration of AI, are challenging companies to rethink their strategies. At the same time, businesses must address talent shortages, enhance workforce capabilities, and navigate an ever-evolving technological landscape. The result is a supply chain ecosystem at a pivotal moment, requiring leaders to blend policy, talent, and technology to stay competitive. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to reflect on the state of supply chain in 2025 and beyond. Together, they explore the significant challenges and opportunities in supply chain planning, including AI adoption, talent strategy, and the impact of tariffs. Scott and Mike discuss how AI is moving from pilot to scale, helping businesses unlock significant value across sourcing and logistics. They highlight the importance of integrating AI with talent strategies to empower workers rather than replace them. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of trade policy and how companies must build it into their long-term strategy. The episode concludes with insights into navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and the imperative for businesses to embrace innovation while managing uncertainty. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (03:05) Impact of the space shuttle program (05:17) Overcoming setbacks in large-scale initiatives (07:25) Shifting from AI pilots to scaled solutions (09:11) Space exploration’s unexpected byproducts for innovation (10:07) Reflecting on supply chain performance in 2025 (12:42) Adapting supply chain strategies to tariffs (15:05) Balancing AI implementation with talent development (16:19) Upskilling talent in the age of AI (19:31) Evaluating AI’s role in workforce reductions (21:13) Connecting AI, talent, and corporate strategies (23:24) Aligning AI and talent strategies for 2026 (27:05) Supply chain leaders embracing complexity and uncertainty (34:05) Targeting AI solutions to specific business problems Additional Links & Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/https://www.gartner.com/enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/https://www.gartner.com/en/supply-chain/insights/beyond-supply-chain-blog/year-in-review-supply-chain-2025https://supplychainnow.com

In this classic 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