
Sustainable Supply Chain
Welcome to the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, hosted by Tom Raftery, a seasoned expert at the intersection of technology and sustainability. This podcast is an evolution of the Digital Supply Chain podcast, now with a laser-focused mission: exploring and promoting tech-led sustainability solutions in supply chains across the globe.Every Monday at 7 am CET, join us for insightful and organic conversations that blend professionalism with an informal, enjoyable tone. We don't script our episodes; instead, we delve into spontaneous, meaningful dialogues about significant topics, always with a touch of fun.Our guests are a diverse mix of influencers in the field - from founders and CxOs of pioneering solution providers to thought leaders and supply chain executives who have successfully implemented sustainability initiatives. Their stories, insights, and experiences are shaping the future of sustainable supply chains.While the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast addresses critical and complex issues, we aim to keep the discussions accessible, engaging, and, most importantly, actionable. It's a podcast that caters to a global audience, reflecting the universal importance of sustainability in today’s interconnected world.We are always eager to hear from our listeners. Your feedback and suggestions are invaluable to us, helping shape the podcast into a platform that truly resonates with its audience. Feel free to reach out via email or connect with us on social media to share your thoughts, ideas, or just to say hello.Subscribe to the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast and be a part of this crucial conversation. Together, let's explore how technology and innovation can lead the charge in creating more sustainable, responsible, and efficient supply chains for a better tomorrow.
Latest episodes

Sep 4, 2023 • 34min
AI to the Rescue: The Future of Industrial Safety Unveiled
Send me a messageHey folks, in the latest episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast I sat down with Maurice Liddell, a principal at BDO Digital, and we went deep into the future of safety in industrial settings. Trust me, it's a conversation you don't want to miss.Are you wondering how AI and wearable tech are revolutionising safety measures? Maurice lays it all out for us. Imagine a world where dynamically deployed safety nets catch workers who slip near vats of molten metal. Yes, that's right! With AI, this kind of instant response isn't just possible; it's the future.But wait, there's more! We also talk about the game-changing role of large language models like ChatGPT. Picture this: workers from diverse linguistic backgrounds can interact with their machines in their native language. Maurice and I delve into how this is making workplaces more inclusive and just downright comfortable.Now, we also tackle a serious note—bias in AI models. Maurice sheds light on the importance of feeding diverse data into these models, especially when they're used in hiring processes. If you've ever questioned the ethics of AI, this is a must-listen segment.We wrap things up by busting a common myth: that safety and profits are at odds. Maurice makes an excellent point—safe workers help maximise profits. So, businesses, take note; investing in advanced safety tech has an ROI that goes beyond the balance sheet, enhancing your reputation and employee retention.Don't forget to check out the links to BDO Digital’s treasure trove of resources (BDO Manufacturing and BDO Digital), where you can dig deeper into these topics. MauElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Sep 1, 2023 • 41min
From Assembly Line to Algorithm: AI's Revolutionary Impact on Manufacturing
Send me a messageIn today's episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast we're diving deep into the world of Generative AI with two experts who've got their finger on the pulse of this transformative tech. I'm talking about Jan Burian and Lorenzo Veronesi from IDC!Are you curious about how Generative AI is shaping the industrial sector? Jan kicks us off with an in-depth look at what Generative AI is, how it's evolved, and what makes it so compelling. Forget the buzzwords; we're talking real-world applications here! Jan’s experience in AI research offers insights that are not just academic but truly actionable for businesses. Spoiler: Generative AI is more than just a shiny new toy.But hey, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. As Lorenzo points out, the tech may seem new to us, but it has been years in the making. No need to expect a 'revolution every two months'. It’s more about understanding how stable the tech is right now and how we can best leverage it for optimal results. Think of it as the internet – revolutionary at first, but then evolving at a more gradual pace.What’s on the horizon for businesses looking to jump in? Both Jan and Lorenzo offer sage advice on scaling up these technologies and integrating them into existing systems. It's not just about pilots; it's about going industrial scale. AElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Aug 28, 2023 • 39min
Unlocking Hyper-Local Weather Data: A Game-Changer for Business
Send me a messageWelcome to another riveting episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Paul Walsh, the CEO of Meteomatics North America. Trust me, if you've ever pondered the intersection of technology, weather, and business, this episode is a must-listen! 🌦️📲Paul brings decades of expertise to the table and gives us an insider's look into how Meteomatics is literally taking weather prediction to new heights with their groundbreaking drone technology. We're talking about drones that collect hyper-local weather data like never before! 🌡️🌪️You'll find it fascinating how this isn't just about knowing whether you need an umbrella today; it's about providing crucial data for agriculture, transportation, and even autonomous vehicles. As the climate changes, and let's face it folks, it IS changing, this kind of data becomes priceless. 🌾🚛We also dig deep into how Meteomatics is making strides not only in Europe but is also unrolling its innovative tech in the US. From military bases in North Dakota to the plains of Switzerland, their drones are flying high and capturing data that can change the way we live and do business.Paul doesn't just stop at talking tech; he gets real about the challenges ahead. We discuss the FAA regulations, safety considerations (nope, you don't want a drone bumping into your flight Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Aug 21, 2023 • 33min
Supply Chain Secrets: How Robotics is Changing the Game with Andy Williams
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast, I had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of warehouse robotics with Andy Williams, the EVP of Sales for ExoTec.Ever wondered how robotics is reshaping the supply chain landscape? Andy gives us a front-row seat into the transformative power of automation. We chat about everything from the Skypod system, a game-changer in warehouse operations, to the pivotal role of software in orchestrating the flow of goods. One of the most intriguing parts? The discussion on the flexibility that modern robotic systems bring. Gone are the days when businesses had to predict their needs with pinpoint accuracy. Today's systems adapt, scale, and evolve with the ever-changing demands of the business world. We also touched on the potential of AI and machine learning in the warehouse space. Imagine a world where robots learn, adapt, and optimize operations on the fly. It's not sci-fi; it's happening now! And for those curious about the human aspect, we delve into how workers perceive and interact with these robots. Spoiler: It's not what you might think! Want to know more? Dive in and join our conversation. And if you're as fascinated by ExoTec's innovations as I am, Andy has generously shared how you can get in touch.Don't forget, you can check out the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/z6ogKSBmLhkThanks for tuning in, and as always, keep innovating and stay curious! Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Aug 14, 2023 • 29min
Unboxing Sustainability: LiquiDonate's Impactful Approach to Excess Inventory
Send me a messageHey everyone, in this episode of the Digital Supply Chain, we dive deep into the innovative world of sustainable returns and inventory management.Ever wondered what happens to all those returned goods and excess inventory from retailers? Too often, they end up in landfills. But, Diz Petit and her platform, LiquiDonate, are changing the game. They're all about matching that surplus to nonprofits in need, creating a win-win scenario for both retailers and the community.Diz shares the inspiring genesis of LiquiDonate, born from her early days at Postmates. We touch on the staggering statistic that 80% of returns end up in landfills, and how LiquiDonate is determined to reduce that number to zero. We also discuss the fantastic tech behind LiquiDonate, their growth plans, and their mission to create the largest global database of nonprofits and schools. And for all the retailers out there, Diz has a special message about the multiple benefits of partnering with LiquiDonate, beyond just sustainability.Tune in to learn about this unique solution in the retail landscape, blending tech, sustainability, and heart. A massive shoutout to Diz for joining me and for her relentless passion to make a difference.Got thoughts, questions, or want to learn more? Reach out! Also, check out this episode on YouTube. And don't forget to share this episode with friends and colleagues. Together, let's make a sustainable difference in the world of returns! Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Aug 7, 2023 • 30min
Harnessing Tech & Talent: Donna Palumbo-Miele's Vision for the Future of Supply Chain
Send me a messageIn today's episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast, I had the pleasure of diving deep into the ever-evolving world of supply chain management with Donna Palumbo-Miele, the Founder and Managing Director of Concordia Supply Chain Group. If you've ever wondered how professionals at the forefront of the industry are navigating the rapid pace of change, this episode is a must-listen!Donna took us on a journey through her career, highlighting how the dynamic of supply chains has shifted over the years. From embracing technologies like AI to the push for sustainability in the age of ESG, we explored the challenges and opportunities lying ahead.One significant takeaway? 🚀 The importance of continuous learning and adaptability in this field cannot be stressed enough. Donna's insights on being strategic, understanding tech solutions, and the human touch's role in AI were particularly enlightening.We also touched upon the fantastic CSCMP event in Barcelona where we first met IRL. Donna's role as the board vice chairman of the CSCMP gave us an insider's look into how this organization is sculpting the future of supply chain management. If networking, roundtable discussions, and in-depth educational opportunities in the supply chain sphere pique your interest, you'll definitely want to hear her insights on CSCMP!To wrap things up, Donna shared a golden nugget of advice for all professionals, regardless of their industry - "Be curious, ask questions." Something we all should live by.Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Check out the episode here or on YouTube, and as always, stay curious and keep learning.Reach out to Donna on LinkedIn (Donna Palumbo -MElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Aug 4, 2023 • 30min
Transition, Trust, and Triumph in Supply Chain: A Chat with Chellie Phillips
Send me a messageIn this engaging episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast, I sat down with Chellie Phillips, Founder and Owner of Successfully Ever After, to discuss the intricacies of managing change within the digital supply chain space.We dove deep into the importance of communication and trust-building when introducing new processes and technologies. As Chellie rightly emphasized, when your team trusts their leaders, they trust the changes that come their way. We explored how effective communication can create a positive change experience for both the company and the employees involved.But this episode isn't just about managing change at an organizational level. It's also about personal change. For those navigating their careers in supply chain, Chellie shared some incredible insights into how to land your ideal role. She walked us through her Successfully Ever After formula and discussed the significance of personal branding in this digital age.Whether you're a team leader navigating change or a professional in the supply chain looking for your next career move, Chellie's expertise and advice are sure to provide some valuable takeaways. Enjoy the episode and get ready to dive into the world of digital supply chain from an entirely new perspective.Remember to check out Chellie's website for more resources and insights. Happy listening, and if you prefer video - you can check out this episode on YouTube!Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Jul 31, 2023 • 43min
Harnessing AI to Revolutionise Procurement: A Conversation with Arkestro's Edmund Zagorin
Send me a messageHey folks, Tom Raftery here with another insightful episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast. This time, I had the pleasure of chatting with Edmund Zagorin, the Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Arkestro.Edmund has a unique perspective on the intersection of AI, procurement, and supply chain processes, and this chat was packed with fascinating insights. We explored the dynamic role of AI in transforming the procurement landscape and how it's helping to streamline operations and facilitate strategic decision-making in supply chains.One of the key themes we delved into was the importance of aligning your company's digitization strategy with its unique business challenges - something Edmund believes Arkestro has nailed with their clients, including giants like Koch Industries.As we find ourselves in a world where personal interactions and travel are significantly reduced due to the pandemic, Edmund urges us to consider if we're fostering the same connections with our suppliers as before. He convincingly argues that now is the perfect time to harness the power of AI to rethink and invigorate supplier relationships.If you've ever wondered whether digital transformation and AI are just hype or if they really have a transformative role in today's complex business environment, this episode is a must-listen. It's not just about technoElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Jul 28, 2023 • 26min
Maria Villablanca on Transforming Supply Chain Leadership
Send me a messageIn this fascinating episode of the Digital Supply Chain Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with supply chain superstar Maria Villablanca, the Co-founder and CEO of Future Insights Network. Maria brings decades of experience and unique insights from her journey through the world of supply chain and manufacturing.We explored the importance of diversity in the supply chain space. Maria shared her thoughts on not just the representation aspect of diversity but the vital role of diverse thought in driving innovation. We also touched on the significance of gender diversity and the need for more women to step into leadership roles.The conversation moved to the crucial aspect of digital transformation and its impact on supply chains, making them more resilient, efficient, and transparent. Maria highlighted the importance of understanding what problem you're trying to solve before implementing new technologies.A major theme we touched on was the need for supply chain leaders to be communicators and storytellers. Maria emphasizes the value of stepping into the light, breaking down silos, and conveying your message effectively to ensure business value is understood.Maria shared her views on the future trends shaping the supply chain industry, with visibility and transparency being top of the list. We discussed how supply chain leaders can seize these opportunities to drive value, become more competitive, and even emerge as CEOs.Join us on this enlightening episode to gain a fresh perspective on the supply chain's role in today's rapidly evolving business landscape. I promise, you won't want to miss it. You can also check out the video version of this podcast on YouTube.Until next timElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Jul 24, 2023 • 34min
Drag, Drop, Done! Supply Chain Automation Made Easy
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast, I had a fascinating chat with Alex Yaseen, founder and CEO of Parabola. Alex and his team are doing incredible work, empowering non-technical folks to automate complex, manual data processes within the supply chain sector.We delved into how Parabola allows operators to essentially 'drag and drop' tasks, making it super accessible and user-friendly, and even tackle tricky stuff like parsing handwriting from PDFs using AI - mind-blowing!Alex shared some compelling success stories too. From major freight forwarders like Flexport to 100-year old family businesses like NFI, Parabola is enabling these organizations to dramatically increase efficiency, minimize errors, and promote creative innovation.Importantly, we touched on the fear many operators have about automation taking their jobs. But as Alex rightly pointed out, using Parabola isn't about job loss; it's about evolving roles, improving job quality, and opening up possibilities for advancement.Parabola is indeed transforming the world of data in supply chains and it's been an absolute pleasure having Alex on the show. Tune in for some great insights and remember, the future of supply chains is digital and it's happening now!Don't forget to check out the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/mk_AvPWCpeAEnjoy the episode!Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.
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