Supply Chain Now

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton and Matt McKinney, CEO and co-founder of Loop, welcome Suzanne Wilsbacher of Cengage and Ben Smith of Clemens Food Group for a data-driven discussion about the transformation AI is bringing to global supply chains.They dive deep into the messy reality of supply chain data, from disconnected systems and inconsistent formats to lagging digital transformation in transportation and logistics. Suzanne and Ben share real-world examples of how they’re leveraging AI—not just to clean data but to make faster, smarter decisions that avoid costly penalties and improve service quality.Matt highlights the growing importance of scenario planning and digital twins in modern supply chain operations, and how AI platforms like Loop are unlocking new levels of visibility and agility. Together, the panel explores how leading companies are creating decades-long competitive advantages by acting now, starting small, and scaling smartly.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(00:49) Overview and AI in supply chain(02:25) Meet the panelists(05:45) Supply chain data challenges(13:53) AI's role in supply Chain(24:38) Suzanne’s example of AI in supply chain(27:21) Ben's AI success story(28:14) Matt's insights on AI's value(30:15) Advice for AI beginners(32:56) Tackling disconnected systems(35:53) Future predictions for AI in supply chain(36:25) Selecting the right AI partner(38:52) Suzanne's vision for AI evolution(42:12) Matt's bold predictions(44:17) Takeaways and ways to connectAdditional Links & Resources:Transportation spend intelligence: The AI-native transformation- https://www.loop.com/asset/transportation-spend-intelligence-the-ai-powered-transformationConnect with Suzanne Wilsbacher: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-wilsbacher-6968912/Check out Cengage Group: https://www.cengagegroup.com/Connect with Ben Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-smith-77855a26/ Check out Clemens Food Group: http://www.clemensfoodgroup.comConnect with Matt McKinney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlmckinney/ Learn more about Loop: https://www.loop.com/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyWEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9qThis episode was 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/democratizing-digital-twins-supply-chain-1431

In this engaging discussion, Matt Fain, CEO of PopCapacity, shares his expertise on supply chain technology and resilience. He emphasizes the pressing need for digital fluency amid changing economic conditions and the critical role of bonded warehousing. Fain highlights the importance of trust and authenticity in leadership for effective team navigation through change. Additionally, he discusses the necessity of data accuracy and how modern supply chains must evolve to meet consumer expectations. Tune in for impactful insights that can enhance supply chain operations!

Vic D’Arcy, a circular economy strategist, shares insights on reverse logistics, emphasizing how it can unlock value through sustainable practices like recycling and refurbishment. Dr. Stephanie Thomas, a supply chain professor, discusses the rising interest in supply chain careers among students and the importance of mentorship in developing future talent. Together, they highlight the critical roles of transportation and small carriers, celebrating their vital contributions to the global economy during National Supply Chain Day.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor sit down with Agustin Lopez-Diaz, Senior Vice President of Global Supply Chain for North America at Schneider Electric, to explore how the company is leading a transformative shift in supply chain operations. Agustin shares how Schneider Electric is driving efficiency, sustainability, and trust across its operations, focusing on automation, energy management, and manufacturing agility. Agustin talks about Schneider Electric’s key supply chain strategies, including how they use cutting-edge technologies such as IoT, advanced analytics, and sustainability consulting to optimize their operations. The conversation also highlights Schneider Electric’s approach to empowering employees and collaborators through skill-building programs and innovation, ensuring that people are at the heart of their supply chain transformation.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:00) Agustin’s career and leadership at Schneider Electric(07:30) Core pillars of Schneider Electric’s supply chain transformation(12:00) How automation and IoT enhance manufacturing efficiency(15:30) Sustainability’s role in supply chain strategy(18:00) Empowering employees through innovation and skills(22:00) Trust in building supply chain partnerships(25:00) Leveraging data and analytics for decision-making(28:00) Regionalization’s impact on North American operations(32:00) Driving sustainability with Schneider Electric’s initiatives(35:00) Schneider Electric’s role in smarter energy management(38:00) Lessons from Schneider Electric’s global supply chain(42:00) Agustin’s thoughts on the future of supply chain transformationAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Agustin Lopez-Diaz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agustin-lopez-diaz-833b585/Learn more about Schneider Electric: https://www.se.comLearn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyWEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9qThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/driving-supply-chain-transformation-through-innovation-sustainability-trust-1428

Join us today as we discuss the necessity for organizations to adopt sustainable supply chain practices to enhance their competitive advantage in the marketplace, and also emerging supply chain talent trends. Welcome to The Buzz!This week, Scott Luton and special guests EALgreen CEO Claudia Freed, and Managing Partner of SCM Talent Group, Rodney Apple get into:The idea that understanding the entirety of natural resource management, including water footprint, is crucial for effective sustainability efforts.The importance of soft skills, particularly in leadership roles, as essential for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains.How innovation and sustainability will reshape supply chain talent in 2025 The growing significance of reverse logistics in supply chain management, asserting that its effective implementation can mitigate waste and enhance efficiency.The idea that active participation in sustainability initiatives is vital for fostering a culture of environmental responsibility within organizations.The urgent need for educational institutions to adapt their supply chain curricula to better integrate emerging technologies and sustainability practices.Key lessons from recent environmental initiatives, including Earth Day 2025Listen in as we illuminate actionable strategies for organizations to enhance their operational efficiency while simultaneously addressing their environmental responsibilities amidst the evolving supply chain talent landscape. Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Claudia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiafreed/Connect with Rodney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scmtalent/Learn more about the Supply Chain Careers Podcast: https://supplychaincareers.com/Learn more about SCM Talent: http://www.linkedin/in/scmtalentLearn more about EALgreen: www.ealgreen.orgHow Innovation and Sustainability will Reshape Supply Chain Talent in 2025: https://bit.ly/4d3sWRHBuilding a Sustainable Supply Chain for a Competitive Advantage: https://bit.ly/3RRrKr8Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkThis 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/buzz-supply-chain-talent-trends-1427

In this episode, Scott Luton welcomes Liz Raman, founder and CEO of Supply Chain Gals, to share her dynamic career journey and powerful mission to amplify women’s voices in global supply chain leadership. Liz walks us through her career path—from routing trucks at Home Depot to leading assortment planning at Nike, and now empowering a growing global community of 20,000+ women through Supply Chain Gals. She shares how embracing discomfort, learning new skills like data analytics, and thinking beyond traditional supply chain roles can open up transformative career opportunities.The conversation explores how technology, mentorship, and storytelling are reshaping the future of supply chain careers. Liz also highlights why building meaningful human connections—and finding your voice—are essential to long-term growth in today’s evolving landscape.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:04) Tennis and personal interests(04:47) Liz’s professional journey(09:30) Non-traditional supply chain careers(14:33) Women in supply chain(21:58) Supply Chain Gals(27:24) Career advice and mentorship(27:41) Staying prepared in tough job marketsAdditional Links & ResourcesConnect with Liz Raman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethramangrubbs/ Explore Supply Chain Gals: https://supplychaingals.com/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyThis episode was 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/amplifying-womens-voices-supply-chain-supply-chain-gals-1426

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, we continue our popular series, Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa as host Scott Luton explores how public-private partnerships are reshaping access to healthcare across Africa, particularly when it comes to affordable, quality medicines. Joined by Anderson Ti-Timi of VillageReach and Trip Allport of XS2Meds, we dive into the complex pharma value chain and the urgent need to build up local private distributors through improved procurement systems, working capital access, and internal infrastructure.Anderson shares insights from the front lines—including a potential new partnership in the Democratic Republic of the Congo—and emphasizes the importance of trust, visibility, and scalable systems. Trip highlights how lessons from 15 years of outsourcing distribution can now be applied across the full value chain to accelerate innovation, integration, and cost reduction. Together, they underscore how collaboration among governments, donors, manufacturers, and distributors is the key to achieving universal health coverage.Whether you're in global health, supply chain, or looking to make a difference, this conversation is a call to build smarter, stronger, and more connected systems.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Trip: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trip-allport-65aab3/Connect with Anderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anderson-titimi/Learn more about VillageReach: https://www.villagereach.org/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyThis 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/supply-chain-leadership-across-africa-increasing-private-sector-engagement-quality-healthcare-1425

Join us today as we discuss the pressing issue of returns management within the realm of global supply chains, emphasizing the necessity for businesses to prioritize this area as we approach 2025. Welcome to The Buzz!This week, Scott Luton and special guest host Tony Sciarrotta, Executive Director of the Reverse Logistics Association (RLA) welcome Lars Dzedek, the Global Head of Returns & Circularity at DHL Supply Chain to the show, who shares insights on sustainable and circular logistics, including DHL's commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Listen in to learn more about:The staggering $890 billion in product returns in 2024The need for improved returns management to enhance customer loyalty and reduce costsInnovative strategies such as AI-powered return forecasting and shared infrastructure to optimize returns processing and protect product valueAnd more!Listen in and discover the critical role of leadership and education in advancing circularity and sustainability in global supply chains.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/4jqpYJn Why Reverse Logistics Needs to Be a Priority in 2025: https://bit.ly/436mRAAConnect with Lars on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsrdzedek/Learn more about DHL: www.dhl.comConnect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-sciarrotta-235570/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Tony Sciarrotta produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-circularity-returns-management-reverse-logistics-1424

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, to unpack the logistics problem no one talks about: disjointed technology. Keith shares how a consulting engagement with Procter & Gamble turned into a mission-driven company focused on optimizing warehouse operations through real-time orchestration and AI.Keith walks through the three critical stages of warehouse intelligence—visibility, predictability, and orchestration—and explains how AutoScheduler is helping organizations move from firefighting to proactive, calm, and coordinated execution. The three explore how disconnected systems create hidden inefficiencies, from margin loss to employee burnout, and how modern tools can harmonize workflows without replacing your existing tech stack.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:00) How Keith got started in supply chain and AI(07:00) From consulting to launching AutoScheduler(10:50) The root of disjointed tech in supply chain operations(13:45) Why standard systems still lead to performance gaps(16:30) The margin cost of inefficiencies and workarounds(20:00) The impact of chaos on workers and operational morale(24:00) Real-world challenges in plant and warehouse coordination(26:00) The limits of ERP and WMS in dynamic environments(30:10) Why the most used tools are still Excel and whiteboards(32:00) The three stages: visibility, predictability, and orchestration(35:45) What AI is actually doing inside the warehouse(38:30) Creating calm out of chaos with real-time decision-making(41:00) What a modern logistics platform looks like in action(46:00) Tangible and intangible benefits of orchestration(49:00) Keith’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in logisticsAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Keith Moore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithdmoore13/Learn more about AutoScheduler.AI: https://www.autoscheduler.aiLearn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyThis episode was 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/transforming-warehouse-opertaions-through-real-time-automation-1423

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome Dr. David Beck of the U.S. Space Force and Richard Donaldson, entrepreneur and circularity advocate, to explore the explosive intersection of space and supply chain.From launching satellites to building sustainable infrastructure beyond Earth’s atmosphere, the conversation dives deep into what it takes to support the growing space economy—projected to reach over $1.8 trillion by 2035. Dr. Beck, a veteran technologist and branch chief at the Space Force, breaks down space logistics as a system of innovation, sustainability, and national security.The panel discusses the rise of CubeSats, the critical need for space debris cleanup, how SpaceX’s rideshare model is revolutionizing orbital logistics, and why we’re no longer preparing for the future—we’re living it.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(00:39) Excitement about space(04:28) Early inspirations for space(12:05) Panelists' backgrounds and journeys(24:19) Space logistics and its importance(39:56) Decoding space acronyms(40:50) Impact of the space economy(42:37) Military and private sector collaboration(44:13) Global space race and competitors(48:22) Opportunities in the space economy(55:47) Innovations and developments in spaceAdditional Links & ResourcesConnect with Dr. David Beck: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbeckmba/ Connect with Richard Donaldson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richarddonaldson/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin Jackson and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/inside-space-economy-supply-chain-innovation-opportunities-1422