The Buzz: Counting Down to Manifest

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:

1. Why geopolitical risk and economic turbulence are no longer episodic — and how leaders must redesign supply chains for constant volatility
2. The potential implications of upcoming Supreme Court decisions on tariffs and what normalization of trade disruption could mean for 2026 planning
3. Five defining trends executives should be watching closely, including supply chain fragmentation, cost optimization pressures, AI recalibration, and persistent workforce challenges
4. How rising energy demands tied to AI and advanced technology are fueling renewed interest in nuclear innovation
5. Why National Human Trafficking Prevention Month matters to the supply chain community — and how supply chain professionals can play a meaningful role in combating human trafficking through awareness and action

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:

1. EPG: https://epg.com/
2. With That Said:https://bit.ly/WTS-11-JAN-2026
3. American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN): https://www.alanaid.org/operations/
4. Manifest: https://partner.manife.st/partner/supplychainnow
5. 5 supply chain management trends to watch in 2026: https://bit.ly/2026-SCM-Trends
6. Supreme Court holds off on Trump tariff ruling for now — what’s at stake for economy: https://bit.ly/3LvCDiH
7. Rolls-Royce SMR project could kickstart EU supply chain: https://bit.ly/4jERJ1Y
8. Inland Kenworth supports human trafficking awareness in many ways: https://bit.ly/IK-Combats-Trafficking
9. Inside Outdoor Cap's Warehouse: https://bit.ly/3N3q6Dv
10. Join us in Las Vegas for Manifest 2026: https://bit.ly/4qegTXz
11. Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/
12. Connect with Tanzil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanziluddin/
13. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
14. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
15. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
16. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-counting-manifest-1533