The Logistics of Logistics

Andrew Wimer and Joe Lynch discuss the blind spots of visibility. Andrew is Director, Operations for Descartes MacroPoint, a global leader in on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions for logistics businesses. About Andrew Wimer Andrew Wimer is Director, Operations for Descartes MacroPoint, a global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions for logistics businesses. With over 15 years of dedicated expertise in the field of logistics, Andrew brings a wealth of experience to the intersection of technology and freight management. For nearly a decade, he has served in pivotal roles at Descartes for its Descartes MacroPoint multimodal freight visibility platform. As Director of Operations, his responsibilities encompass spearheading new customer implementations, facilitating seamless carrier onboarding, and ensuring the ongoing success of their valued clientele. Andrew’s career reflects a commitment to optimizing supply chain operations through innovative solutions and strategic leadership in the dynamic landscape of logistics and freight technology. About Descartes Descartes is the global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, security and sustainability of logistics-intensive businesses. One of Descartes’ solutions in its cloud-based transportation management software portfolio, Descartes MacroPoint is a multimodal visibility platform designed to help freight brokers, third-party logistics companies (3PLs) and shippers gain better visibility to their freight operations and shipments. Carriers can easily connect with the solution via GPS-based electronic logging device (ELD), transportation management systems (TMS), or mobile app-based tracking methods. The platform allows for increased control and management of the supply chain—with more efficient and high-quality data to improve communication and decision-making. Using Descartes MacroPoint, companies can enhance customer service, increase distribution efficiency, better collaborate with customers, suppliers and carriers, and minimize the impact of disruptions and late delivery penalties. Connect with Descartes MacroPoint on LinkedIn, X and Facebook. Key Takeaways: Blind Spots of Visibility Andrew and Joe discuss some of the blind spots in visibility including: Clunky onboarding Dirty data Port blackholes Descartes MacroPoint is part of a world-leading Software-as-a-Service solution suite focused on improving productivity, performance, and security for logistics-intensive businesses. Descartes focus on visibility and control: Their Descartes MacroPoint platform grants freight brokers, 3PLs, and shippers real-time insights into their operations and shipments. The company provides easy carrier integration: Carriers can connect via diverse methods like GPS trackers, TMS systems, or mobile apps for seamless data sharing. Descartes improves supply chain management: The platform offers increased control, data quality, communication, and decision-making, leading to better customer service, distribution efficiency, collaboration, and disruption mitigation. Learn More About Blind Spots of Visibility Andrew Wimer | Linkedin Descartes MacroPoint | Linkedin Descartes MacroPoint The Tive Story with Krenar Komoni | The Logistics of Logistics The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube

Ryan Sullivan and Joe Lynch discuss the CRO perspective - growing freighttech sales. Ryan is the CEO and Founder of Ratchet Ventures, a fractional CRO firm specializing in the logistics and freighttech space. Summary: The CRO Perspective: Growing FreightTech Sales In this podcast, Ryan Sullivan, Founder of Ratchet Ventures and an experienced Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), shares his insights on growing sales in the freight tech and logistics industry. He discusses the importance of revenue management, transitioning from founder-led sales to a scalable process, and the three levers to increase sales: larger deals, more opportunities, and higher conversion rates. Ryan emphasizes understanding the ideal customer profile, building genuine relationships, and specializing in a specific niche to improve sales performance. He also addresses the challenges growing companies face in finding the right sales leadership and how fractional CRO services can help. Throughout the podcast, Ryan shares his unconventional journey and expertise in helping companies and individuals navigate the increasingly competitive supply chain technology industry. #FreightTechSales #RevenueGrowthStrategies #LogisticsSalesExpertise About Ryan Sullivan Ryan Sullivan is the CEO & Founder of Ratchet Ventures. With over a decade of experience in supply chain tech, Ryan partners with seed to Series B companies to revamp sales strategies, optimize pipelines, and enhance forecasting. A proven leader with success at Kuebix and Tive, he specializes in transitioning from founder-led sales to scalable processes, achieving 5-10x revenue growth. As a 2x founder, 2x corporate exit, and 3-time founding sales leader, Ryan's expertise includes channel partnerships, sales playbooks, prospecting, and CRM enablement. Passionate about innovation in logistics and transportation, he actively shares industry insights on LinkedIn and is committed to transparency and authenticity in all business interactions. Based in Boston, Ryan drives growth and innovation in the supply chain industry. About Ratchet Ventures Ratchet Ventures, led by CEO & Founder Ryan Sullivan, empowers supply chain technology leaders to scale, secure funding, and drive profitable revenue through comprehensive growth services. With over 15 years of experience, Ryan partners with seed to Series B companies to transition from founder-led sales to scalable processes, achieving significant growth. Ratchet Ventures specializes in Fractional CRO services, strategic growth planning, and go-to-market strategies. As a 2x founder, 2x corporate exit, and 3-time founding sales leader, Ryan's expertise is instrumental in navigating startup complexities and driving innovation in the supply chain sector (Ryan Sullivan ). Key Takeaways: The CRO Perspective: Growing FreightTech Sales Gain insights from a Chief Revenue Officer on growing sales in the freight tech industry. Learn about the importance of building relationships with customers. Understand the growing significance of revenue management in companies. Discover how to transition from founder-led sales to a scalable sales process. Hear about Ryan Sullivan's unconventional journey to becoming a successful tech sales leader. Learn three key levers to grow sales in freight tech and logistics companies. Understand the value of genuine expertise and personal connections in the era of AI-generated content. Timestamps (00:00:01) The CRO Perspective on Freight Tech Sales (00:00:20) Fractional CRO for Early Stage Companies (00:01:35) The Growing Importance of Revenue Management (00:04:00) Scaling Sales Beyond Founder-Led Efforts (00:08:05) Accidental Entrepreneur Discovers Supply Chain Tech (00:14:18) Three Levers to Grow Freight Tech Sales (00:16:03) Selling Larger Deals in Freight Brokerage (00:19:34) The Value of Authentic Expertise (00:22:17) Boost Sales Conversion Through Customer Understanding (00:24:32) Niching Down for Higher Conversions (00:32:34) Focusing on the Ideal Customer Profile (00:39:35) Fractional CRO: Helping Companies Overcome Growth Barriers (00:43:21) Fractional CRO: Driving Strategic Sales Growth (00:47:03) Navigating Sales Leadership Challenges in Growing Companies (00:51:48) Three Ways to Grow Freight Tech Sales (00:52:52) Navigating Supply Chain Technology and Capital Learn More About The CRO Perspective: Growing FreightTech Sales Ryan Sullivan | Linkedin Ratchet Ventures | Linkedin Ratchet Ventures The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube

Michael Caney and Joe Lynch discuss eliminating freight fraud. Michael is the Chief Commercial Officer of Highway, a freight-tech company that identifies who's really hauling your freight to reduce fraud and supercharge your digital bookings. About Michael Caney Michael Caney is a keen strategist and visionary leader with a demonstrated track record for driving transformational change that has helped early-stage freight tech companies and mid-market 3PLs accelerate growth and achieve scalability. His proven ability to distill complexity into easy-to-understand execution is at the heart of an innovative approach to talent development and team-building strategies. Michael has 20 years of experience in leadership and advisory roles in corporate development, sales, brokerage, managed services, technology, and fleet operations. He was also the founder of GrowthNexus, a consultancy firm that infuses experienced executives into go-to-market planning, sales playbooks, and operational process design to help companies simplify technology decisions.  About Highway Highway is a technology company focused on solving the digital identity problem in the trucking industry. They have developed a Carrier Identity engine that manages carrier identity and eliminates the risks of fraud and double brokering. Highway provides brokers with comprehensive data on carrier equipment to supercharge their capacity sourcing and vetting efforts. The company accelerates connections and drives engagement, making the industry more integrated, digital, and secure. Customers can identify the right carrier for every load, source with superpowers that give them the truth about a carrier’s lanes and equipment and be warned of negative indicators discovered in public and private data sources. They can also connect their carrier network with speed and security, onboard new carriers with rightful owner validation and dispatch service detection and monitor carriers to enforce an all-new standard with automated compliance. Highway is transforming the trucking industry with their innovative technology and commitment to improving security and efficiency. Key Takeaways: Eliminating Freight Fraud with Michael Caney To eliminate freight fraud, it all begins with carrier identity. Highway identifies who's really hauling your freight to reduce fraud and supercharge your digital bookings Highway is a technology company solving the digital identity problem in the trucking industry. The company removes risk and friction between brokers and carriers with a Carrier Identity engine. Highway provides brokers with comprehensive data on carrier equipment to supercharge capacity sourcing and vetting efforts. The company accelerates connections and drives engagement to make the industry more integrated, digital, and secure. Customers can identify the right carrier for every load and be warned of negative indicators from public and private data sources. They can also onboard new carriers with rightful owner validation and dispatch service detection. Customers can monitor carriers to enforce new standards with automated compliance. Highway is transforming the trucking industry with their innovative technology. The company is committed to improving security and efficiency in the industry. Learn More About Eliminating Freight Fraud Michael Caney | LinkedIn Highway | LinkedIn Highway | Website Freight has an Identity Crisis with Jordan Graft | The Logistics of Logistics The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube

Kenneth Carter III and Joe Lynch discuss 5 lessons from military logistics. Kenneth is the CEO of Ameriton Freight, a logistics company specializing in the food and beverage space.  Summary: 5 Lessons From Military Logistics In this podcast, Kenneth Carter III shares his remarkable journey from drug addiction and incarceration to becoming the CEO and founder of Ameriton Freight and Logistics. Drawing from his military experience, Carter discusses five key lessons that can be applied to improve business operations and leadership, including the importance of flexibility, adaptability, scenario planning, strong leadership culture, effective processes, and training. He also emphasizes the significance of understanding food safety requirements and maintaining proper temperature control during transportation. Additionally, the podcast highlights the work of Truckers Against Trafficking, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness about human trafficking and trains professionals in the transportation industry to identify and report potential trafficking situations. #MilitaryLogisticsLessons #ResilienceThroughScenarioPlanning #LeadershipInLogistics About Kenneth Carter III  Kenneth Carter, a driver turned logistics leader, is the CEO of Ameriton Freight. Founded in 2020 after 19 years in the industry, Ameriton combines his passions: supply chain consulting and personal development. Kenneth, following his mother's military footsteps, entered the U.S. Army as a motor transport operator after high school. He brings empathy, honesty, and professionalism to every interaction, drawing from his experience as a driver, manager, and leader of a Fortune 500 team. Kenneth's purpose? To empower communities and instill optimism, helping them navigate challenges and defy limitations. About Ameriton Freight Ameriton Freight, a Central Florida-based consultancy, is revolutionizing logistics with a heart. Fueled by innovation, courage, and leadership, they build global partnerships that spark joy. Their expertise lies in streamlining food and beverage transportation, alongside nationwide freight auditing, supply chain mastery, and transportation management services. Ameriton empowers businesses with a smile, fostering a community that thrives on tackling challenges as opportunities. Their vision? To become a logistics powerhouse, with ocean vessels carrying their spirit and fresh produce across the globe. Combining youthful energy with methodical expertise, Ameriton redefines the industry, inspiring others to conquer every horizon. Key Takeaways: 5 Lessons From Military Logistics Valuable insights from military logistics experience applied to business operations and leadership. Importance of understanding food safety requirements and maintaining proper temperature control during transportation. Kenneth Carter III's personal journey from drug addiction and incarceration to a successful career in logistics. Starting a company while in prison to overcome employment challenges as a former inmate. Five key learnings from military logistics that are applicable to the private sector. The importance of flexibility and adaptability in military logistics when faced with VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity). Scenario planning and collaboration among teams to build resilience and navigate uncertainties in logistics and supply chains. Timestamps (00:00:01) Applying Military Logistics Lessons to Business (00:00:23) Ensuring Food Safety in Transportation (00:03:05) From Addiction to Redemption (00:07:17) From Prison to Entrepreneurship (00:09:02) Lessons from Military Logistics (00:10:04) Navigating VUCA in Military Logistics (00:11:20) Building Resilience Through Scenario Planning (00:14:15) Navigating Ambiguity in War Zone Logistics (00:15:04) Overcoming VUCA with Scenario Planning (00:15:44) Leadership Lessons from the Military (00:20:11) Developing Habit-Forming Processes and Training (00:23:20) Building Discipline and Forming Habits (00:26:05) Intelligence, Data, and Strategic Decisions (00:28:05) Five Lessons from Military Logistics (00:30:13) Truckers Against Trafficking: Combating Human Trafficking Learn More About 5 Lessons From Military Logistics Kenneth Carter | Linkedin Ameriton Freight | Linkedin Ameriton Freight | Instagram Ameriton Freight Ameriton Freight | YouTube Channel TAT Certification Program | Complete the course, print your certificate, and become a TAT-Trained driver today! The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube

Jason Miller and Joe Lynch discuss market insights. Jason is a professor of supply chain at Michigan State University, which is ranked as one of the top supply chain schools in the world. Summary: Market Insights In this podcast, Jason Miller, a professor at Michigan State University, shares his expertise on the current state of the supply chain and logistics industry. He discusses the ongoing freight recession, the impact of Trump tariffs on the US economy, and the potential effects of reshoring. The podcast also covers recent disruptions in the container shipping market and air freight volumes from Asia to the US. Additionally, Jason Miller emphasizes the importance of understanding data quality and expresses skepticism about the revolutionary potential of AI in certain domains. The discussion highlights the significance of making informed decisions based on real-time data and qualitative forecasts. #SupplyChainInsights #FreightMarketOutlook #DataDrivenDecisions About Jason Miller Jason Miller (PhD The Ohio State University) is a tenured Associate Professor of Logistics and the John D. and Dortha J. Withrow Endowed Emerging Scholar at Michigan State University's Eli Broad College of Business. His primary research stream examines firms' logistics operations, with an emphasis on studying motor carrier safety, productivity, pricing dynamics, and driver turnover. Jason has been recognized with multiple awards for research and teaching. He was recognized as the undergraduate faculty member who had the greatest impact on students based on the 2017 graduating senior survey. The website Poets & Quants has recognized him as one of the top 40 undergraduate professors. About Michigan State University, Department of Supply Chain Management Michigan State University is a public research university in East Lansing, Michigan. MSU was founded in 1855. Today, MSU is one of the largest universities in the United States and has approximately 634,300 living alumni worldwide. MSU’s Department of Supply Chain Management is the consistently ranked as the top supply chain management school in the country. The department educates students to succeed in careers such as procurement, manufacturing, inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and customer service. Students graduate with foundational knowledge across all areas of SCM, positioning them to work in multiple capacities for the top global companies. The business world views Broad’s graduates and faculty as the voice of the SCM field. Key Takeaways: Market Insights Jason Miller shares insights on the current state of the supply chain and logistics industry, discussing freight rates, inventory levels, and consumer spending. The freight market has been in a recession since late 2022, with spot rates and demand moving along a trough. The impact of reshoring on the US economy depends on the location of the parts ecosystem, and interest rate cuts by the Fed will likely be needed to stimulate freight volumes and housing activity. Air freight volumes from Asia to the US, particularly from India and China, have seen a significant increase due to ecommerce demand for cheap goods. AI will revolutionize fields like drug discovery and engineering but may struggle with economics and human-related activities due to unpredictability and measurement difficulties. Making informed decisions involves understanding data sources, forming a coherent narrative, and using qualitative forecasts based on experience and intuition. Timestamps (00:00:01) Market Insights with Supply Chain Economist (00:00:17) Supply Chain Challenges and Economic Outlook (00:01:09) The Supply Chain Economist (00:03:26) Freight Markets: Trough, Capacity, and Demand Surges (00:10:27) Tariffs' Negative Impact on the Economy (00:19:06) Reshoring, Interest Rates, and Freight Volumes (00:21:14) Container Shipping Demand Surges, Rates Soar (00:24:22) Navigating Disruptions in Global Shipping Routes (00:27:55) The Surprising Surge in Air Freight (00:32:20) Freight Recession Amidst Economic Stability (00:40:40) The Limitations of AI and Data (00:49:57) The Potential and Limitations of AI (00:57:57) Freight Markets, Recession, and AI Readiness (00:59:21) Making Sense of Data and Decision-Making (01:01:10) Data-Driven Decisions in a Transforming World (01:03:05) Engaging with Logistics and Supply Chain Leaders Learn More About Market Insights Jason Miller MSU Supply Chain Management Program Jason’s profile on MSU’s website Supply Chain Basics with Jason Miller Logistics and Supply Chain - 1940 to 2040 with Jason Miller The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube

Mike Droesch from Bessemer Venture Partners discusses the supply chain roadmap and highlights investing in tech startups transforming logistics. Topics include workflow optimization, digital connectivity, automated financial workflows, and the importance of industry expertise in founding teams. The conversation also covers visibility technology, automation in freight forwarding, data cleaning in supply chain operations, AI tools for payment efficiency, innovation trends, and the role of venture capital in scaling businesses.

Joe Spisak, CEO of Fulfill.com, discusses warehousing challenges post-COVID, 3PL marketing strategies, and the importance of choosing the right fulfillment partner. Topics include evolving consumer shopping habits on social media, building trust in logistics, podcasters' mergers, and advice for brands on selecting warehousing partners.

Kevin Hill from Brush Pass Research discusses 4 trends in the freight brokerage industry on The Logistics of Logistics podcast. Topics include the categorization of freight brokers by revenue, challenges for mid-cap companies, the importance of supply chain professionals in leadership roles, integration within the freight industry, outsourced sales agency models, and consolidation trends in the logistics sector. #FreightBrokerageInsights #FreightTechInnovation #LogisticsIndustryTrends

Karl Swensen, CEO of Pull Logic, talks about solving the $1.8 trillion inventory distortion problem by using AI tech to optimize inventory management. They focus on reducing lost sales by addressing supply chain failures, using the Product Availability Ratio (PAR) score, and leveraging data analytics to improve sustainability. Swensen's background in industrial engineering and supply chain consulting adds depth to the discussion.

Chris Camacho and Joe Lynch discuss the Phoenix factor: how Arizona became a logistics hub. Chris is President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), an organization working to attract and grow quality businesses in the Greater Phoenix area. Summary: The Phoenix Factor: How Arizona Became a Logistics Hub In this podcast, Chris Camacho, President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, discusses how Greater Phoenix has become a thriving logistics hub and a prime location for businesses. He explores the factors contributing to the region's growth, including its strategic location, infrastructure investments, and business-friendly environment. Camacho also delves into the importance of a skilled workforce in supporting advanced manufacturing and the hyper-regionalization of supply chains driven by consumer demand for fast delivery. The podcast highlights the Southwest region's investments in infrastructure, such as the planned I-11 corridor, and how these developments have enabled Greater Phoenix to attract major companies and develop thriving industrial corridors. Lastly, Camacho emphasizes the significance of understanding demographic shifts, population changes, and state policies when corporations evaluate markets and make strategic business decisions. #PhoenixLogisticsHub #EconomicDevelopmentAZ #I11Corridor About Chris Camacho Chris Camacho serves as president & CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), one of the longest-standing public-private partnerships for economic development across the country. As chief executive, Chris leads the development and execution of the region’s strategic economic strategy, oversees domestic and international business development, and ensures the market position remains competitive through coordination with partner organizations, private sector leaders, and municipal and state leadership. GPEC has attracted more than 540 companies during his tenure, creating more than 100,000 jobs and $56.8 billion in capital investment. Some notable projects include TSMC, Apple, LG Energy Solutions, Microsoft, GoDaddy, Amazon, Garmin, General Motors, HelloFresh, KORE Power, Williams-Sonoma and headquarters including Benchmark Electronics, Carlisle Companies, Rogers Corporation and EMD Electronics. In October 2021, Chris led GPEC to being recognized as the top economic development organization globally by the International Economic Development Council a year after being named the top EDO in the U.S. in 2020. About GPEC The Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), globally recognized as a top economic development organization (EDO), works to attract and grow quality businesses and advocate for the competitiveness of Greater Phoenix. A data-driven regional EDO, GPEC works with 22 member communities, Maricopa and Pinal counties, and more than 200 private investors to accomplish its mission and serve as a strategic partner to companies across the world as they expand or relocate to Greater Phoenix. Over the past 34 years, GPEC has fueled the regional economy by helping over 980 companies, creating nearly 182,000 jobs and more than $65 billion in capital investment. Greater Phoenix is in a relentless pursuit of innovative and entrepreneurial-focused companies looking to thrive and scale in a vibrant, dynamic region. There is an undeniable spirit about Greater Phoenix; one rooted in strength, collaboration and resilience. Greater Phoenix is Greater Together. Key Takeaways: The Phoenix Factor: How Arizona Became a Logistics Hub Learn about the hyper-regionalization of supply chains and how Greater Phoenix attracts new business by offering a favorable business environment. Discover the role of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council in driving economic development for the Phoenix metropolitan area. Understand the importance of states competing for manufacturing jobs and the need for a skilled workforce in advanced manufacturing. Explore the reasons behind Greater Phoenix and Arizona becoming major logistics hubs, including consumer demand and supply chain redundancy. Learn about the hyper-regionalization of supply chains and how Phoenix attracts new business by offering a favorable environment. Discover the impact of infrastructure investments in the Southwest region, on attracting major companies and developing industrial corridors. Understand the significance of the planned I-11 corridor in connecting Mexico, the United States, and Canada, and its potential to induce job creation and fortify supply chains. Learn More About The Phoenix Factor: How Arizona Became a Logistics Hub Chris Camacho | Linkedin Chris Camacho | X/Twitter GPEC | Linkedin GPEC | X/Twitter GPEC Why Amazon, UPS and Others Are Filling Warehouses Along This Arizona Highway | WSJ Episode Sponsor: Revenova Contact Us | Revenova The CRM-Powered TMS with Michael Horvath | The Logistics of Logistics The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube