In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Justin Smith interviews Nikhil Sathe from BGSA, discussing the current state of the supply chain and logistics industry. They explore the economic landscape, the impact of tariffs, the role of technology and AI, and the trends in mergers and acquisitions. Nikhil shares insights on navigating financial challenges, the importance of cash management, and the future outlook for the industry, emphasizing the need for realistic expectations in a changing market.

Key Takeaways

• Nikhil Sathe has over 35 years of experience in supply chain and logistics.
• The freight industry is currently experiencing a recession with significant challenges.
• Transportation technology and AI are the only sectors thriving in the current market.
• M&A activity is expected to rebound in 2026 despite current market conditions.
• Cash management is crucial for companies facing financial pressures.
• Identifying high-value customers is essential for profitability.
• AI is poised to revolutionize the logistics industry.
• Valuations in the market are adjusting to new economic realities.
• The impact of tariffs is creating uncertainty in supply chains.
• The logistics market is highly fragmented, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

Episode Resources

Connect with Nikhil Sathe

• linkedin.com/in/nikhilsathe
• https://bgstrategicadvisors.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/bg-strategic-advisors/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Justin Smith and Tim Judge discuss the critical need for data unification in supply chains. Tim shares his extensive background in the industry, highlighting the challenges companies face with fragmented data systems. He explains how Agillitics aims to bridge these gaps by providing tailored solutions that meet companies where they are in their data maturity journey. The conversation also touches on the importance of automation, AI, and the need for open systems to enhance visibility and efficiency in warehouse operations. Tim emphasizes the significance of preparing for go-live challenges and the dual nature of AI as both overhyped and underhyped in the current landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Unified data is essential for effective supply chain management.
• Many companies struggle with fragmented data across multiple systems.
• AI and technology can significantly enhance supply chain operations.
• Agillitics aims to provide tailored solutions for data integration.
• Middle market companies have unique challenges and opportunities.
• Empowering employees through automation can lead to greater job satisfaction.
• Visibility in warehouse operations is crucial for efficiency.
• Digital transformation requires careful planning and execution.
• Go-live challenges can be mitigated through simulation and preparation.
• Understanding the maturity level of a company is key to implementing solutions.
• The future of supply chain will increasingly rely on data-driven decision making.

Chapters

• 01:58 - Tim Judge's Career Journey and Insights
• 05:46 - The Importance of Data in Supply Chain Management
• 09:23 - Building Effective Dashboards for Executives
• 11:18 - Understanding Customer Readiness for Data Solutions
• 13:11 - Productizing Data Solutions for Faster Implementation
• 15:01 - Leveraging AI in Data Management
• 16:57 - Challenges for Mid-Sized Companies in Data Management
• 18:58 - Empowering Teams to Embrace Automation
• 23:32 - Embracing Entrepreneurial Mindset in Organizations
• 25:40 - Transforming Warehouse Operations through Automation
• 29:13 - Integrating Data Systems for Enhanced Visibility
• 33:16 - Navigating Digital Transformations and Go-Live Challenges
• 38:14 - The Dual Nature of AI: Overhyped and Underhyped
• 42:48 - Preparing for Future Challenges in Supply Chain Management

Episode Resources

Connect with Tim Judge

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/timpjudge/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/agillitics/
• https://www.agillitics.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Justin Smith interviews Adrian Betts from Xpandur, who shares his expertise in optimizing warehouse operations. The conversation covers various themes, including managing large teams, simplifying operations through repetition, the importance of training, and understanding client needs. Adrian discusses the challenges of hiring and retaining talent in competitive markets, the significance of cross-training, and the necessity of planning for peak seasons. He emphasizes capacity management and inventory control while also addressing the balance between automation and traditional methods in warehousing. The episode concludes with insights into future trends in the industry.

Key Takeaways

• Xpandur aims to enhance operational capabilities in warehousing.
• Managing large teams requires effective communication and structure.
• Repetition in training simplifies complex operations.
• Understanding client needs is crucial for successful project execution.
• Hiring strategies must adapt to market dynamics.
• Retaining talent is essential in competitive job markets.
• Cross-training enhances operational flexibility and efficiency.
• Planning for peak seasons is vital for operational success.
• Capacity management directly impacts inventory control and efficiency.
• Automation should complement traditional methods, not replace them.

Episode Resources

Connect with Adrian Betts

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-betts/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/xpandur-llc/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this conversation, Keyan Bazargan discusses the importance of focusing on last mile shipping as a strategic area for brands to reduce costs and improve efficiency. He emphasizes that this area offers significant opportunities for savings without causing major disruptions to the supply chain. By prioritizing last mile shipping, brands can achieve a high return on investment and effectively cut their cost of goods sold.

Takeaways

• There's a lot of different areas I could have chosen to focus on to help companies save money.
• The reason why I focused on last mile shipping is because I think the majority of brands there have a lot of meat left on the bone.
• There's a lot of room to save and to actually make a change is not as disruptive to your supply chain.
• I viewed it as the category like the highest ROI use of your time. If a brand is looking to cut their cost of goods sold, I recommend starting with shipping.
• Manufacturing changes that you might make are a lot bigger of a project than modifying your last mile shipping.
• Last mile shipping offers significant opportunities for savings.
• Strategic focus on last mile shipping can lead to operational efficiency.
• Cutting costs in last mile shipping can enhance overall brand performance. Effective shipping strategies are crucial for modern brands.

Episode Resources

Connect with Keyan Bazargan

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/keyan-bazargan/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/iron-margin/
• https://www.ironmargin.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Justin Smith interviews Paul Lukehart, an experienced project manager in logistics and supply chain. They discuss Paul's journey from the Army to managing projects for major companies like Target and Amazon. The conversation delves into the importance of effective project management, common pitfalls, risk mitigation strategies, and the impact of automation in logistics. Paul shares insights on the insourcing vs outsourcing dilemma, the significance of understanding payback periods, and how to deal with unexpected challenges in projects. The episode concludes with a look at future trends in project management, including the role of AI and prediction markets.

Takeaways

• Project management is a journey that requires trust and collaboration.
• Effective project management involves understanding both operations and project execution.
• Automation is becoming increasingly important in logistics projects.
• Common pitfalls in project management include misalignment of resources and scope.
• Risk mitigation strategies are essential for project success.
• Understanding payback periods helps in making informed investment decisions.
• The insourcing vs outsourcing dilemma is a continuous challenge for companies.
• Dealing with project wrinkles requires transparency and stakeholder engagement.
• Future trends in project management include the integration of AI and prediction markets.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are key to successful project management.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to Project Management and Logistics
• 02:41 - Paul's Journey in Logistics and Project Management
• 05:10 - The Importance of Project Definition and Scope
• 07:40 - Understanding Project Management Risks
• 10:24 - When to Seek External Project Management Expertise
• 13:03 - Case Study: Trucking Automation Project
• 15:16 - Common Pitfalls in Project Management
• 20:24 - Understanding Project Value and Risks
• 23:01 - Contingency Planning and ROI Analysis
• 25:41 - The Dynamics of 3PL Relationships
• 27:19 - Navigating Project Challenges and Wrinkles
• 29:52 - Innovative Tools and Technologies in Project Management
• 33:06 - Looking Ahead: Future Trends and Insights

Episode Resources

Connect with Paul Lukehart

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/paullukehart/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/plprograms/
• https://warehouseimprovement.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Justin Smith interviews Joe Dunlap, founder of BlueJ Advisors, to explore the evolving landscape of supply chain and industrial strategy. They discuss the concept of warehouses as infrastructure, the importance of automation, and the role of real estate in supply chain dynamics. Joe shares insights from his extensive career in supply chain consulting, including turnaround strategies for distressed companies and the growing significance of 3PLs. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly changing industry.

Key Takeaways

• Warehouses are increasingly viewed as infrastructure.
• Real estate plays a crucial role in supply chain dynamics.
• Automation is essential for improving efficiency and reducing costs.
• Turnaround strategies are vital for distressed companies.
• M&A activities often require realignment of supply chain assets.
• Supply chain network design requires accurate data and modeling.
• 3PLs are growing in importance within the supply chain.
• Automation can lead to higher-skilled job opportunities.
• Cultural perceptions influence outsourcing decisions.
• Continuous learning is key to staying relevant in supply chain management.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to Supply Chain and Industrial Strategy
• 01:10 - Warehouses as Infrastructure
• 05:51 - Joe Dunlap's Background and Expertise
• 13:07 - Current Trends in Supply Chain Consulting
• 15:14 - Challenges in Turnarounds and Transformations
• 20:05 - Business Imperatives and Supply Chain Changes
• 21:06 - Tools and Analysis in Supply Chain Network Design
• 25:08 - The Role of 3PLs in Supply Chain Management
• 30:51 - Understanding Supply Chain Components
• 32:18 - The Role of Automation in Supply Chain
• 39:07 - Outsourcing vs. Insourcing Decisions
• 41:52 - The Future of Manufacturing and Automation
• 47:46 - The Value of Continuous Learning and Education

Episode Resources

Connect with Joe Dunlap

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-dunlap-bluej
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluejadvisors/
• https://bluejadvisors.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Justin Smith interviews Hillary Drake from Liminal Network about the modernization of logistics through APIs and self-service solutions. They discuss the challenges faced by B2B companies in managing customer expectations, the importance of customer journey mapping, and how integrating technology can enhance the customer experience. Hillary shares insights on the role of data security, the entrepreneurial journey, and future innovations in the logistics industry.

Key Takeaways

• The logistics industry is evolving with the integration of APIs.
• Self-service solutions are crucial for improving customer experience in B2B.
• Understanding the customer journey can reveal gaps in service.
• Integrating new technology into existing systems is essential for efficiency.
• Real-time data enhances customer trust and satisfaction.
• APIs can streamline logistics processes and reduce costs.
• Data security is a top priority for maintaining customer trust.
• Future innovations in logistics will focus on automation and efficiency.
• Building relationships in the industry is key to success.
• The entrepreneurial journey involves navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to Modernizing Logistics
• 02:37 - The Importance of Self-Service in B2B
• 05:44 - Identifying Target Customers
• 08:07 - Understanding Customer Journey Mapping
• 11:07 - Integrating Technology into Existing Systems
• 13:58 - Enhancing Customer Experience with Real-Time Data
• 16:33 - The Role of APIs in Logistics
• 19:24 - Challenges in Implementing New Technologies
• 22:12 - Data Security and Customer Trust
• 25:07 - Future Innovations in Logistics
• 27:29 - Building Relationships in the Industry
• 30:27 - The Entrepreneurial Journey
• 33:15 - Conclusion and Future Outlook

Episode Resources

Connect with Hillary Drake

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillary-drake/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/liminal-network/
• https://liminalnetwork.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights Podcast, Justin Smith interviews Jonathan Briggs from ShipMonk, exploring the intersection of industrial real estate and third-party logistics (3PL). They discuss Jonathan's role at ShipMonk, the challenges and strategies in sales, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the impact of technology and automation in warehousing. The conversation also delves into managing peak seasons, regulatory challenges, and common myths in the 3PL industry, concluding with insights on future trends and investment opportunities.

Key Takeaways

• Sales is evolving, and understanding customer needs is crucial.
• Navigating customer relationships requires a balance of push and pull.
• The ideal customer profile has shifted towards D2C and omni-channel.
• Technology and automation are key to optimizing warehouse operations.
• Labor dynamics and automation present ongoing challenges.
• Sales cycles have lengthened due to market uncertainties.
• Managing peak seasons requires proactive planning and communication.
• Regulatory changes can significantly impact logistics operations.
• Common myths about 3PLs often stem from outdated perceptions.
• Investing in global facilities can enhance service capabilities.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to ShipMonk and Jonathan's Role
• 02:42 - A Day in the Life at ShipMonk
• 05:29 - Navigating the 3PL Landscape
• 08:21 - Understanding ShipMonk's Ideal Customer Profile
• 11:09 - Warehouse Automation Challenges
• 13:57 - The Balance of Automation and Manual Processes
• 16:54 - Sales Environment and Challenges in 2025
• 19:51 - Success Stories and Future Focus
• 26:16 - Streamlining Operations and Value-Added Services
• 29:16 - Navigating Peak Seasons and Managing Expectations
• 32:42 - Understanding Regulatory Risks and Compliance
• 35:47 - Contract Lengths and Customer Retention Strategies
• 38:32 - Vertical Integration and Scaling the Business
• 41:30 - Dispelling Myths in Fulfillment and Outsourcing
• 47:41 - Future Investments and Global Expansion Strategies

Episode Resources

Connect with Jonathan Briggs

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdbriggs/
• https://www.shipmonk.com/high-volume-fulfillment
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/shipmonk/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Justin Smith interviews Luca Conner, co-founder and co-CEO of Pack'N, a 3PL company. They discuss Luca's journey from starting in the industry at a young age to bootstrapping a successful logistics business. The conversation covers the importance of communication, client relationships, financial realities, and the challenges of running a 3PL. Luca shares insights on preparing for peak seasons, identifying ideal clients, and the future of the 3PL industry amidst changing e-commerce trends.

Key Takeaways

• Luca started Pack'N at 19 years old, bootstrapping the business.
• The company has a 100% client retention rate, emphasizing strong relationships.
• Effective communication is crucial for successful 3PL operations.
• Cash flow management is a significant challenge for 3PLs.
• Client expectations must be clearly set and managed.
• Organized inbounding is essential for smooth warehouse operations.
• E-commerce trends are shifting, impacting logistics strategies.
• Preparing for peak seasons requires strategic planning and communication.
• The future of the 3PL industry is promising, with expected growth.
• 3PLs should focus on building partnerships rather than transactional relationships.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to Packin and Luca's Journey
• 04:33 - Bootstrapping a 3PL: Challenges and Strategies
• 09:13 - The Importance of Communication in 3PL
• 14:00 - Financial Realities of Running a 3PL
• 18:45 - Client Relationships: Dream vs. Nightmare
• 23:30 - Navigating Volatility in E-commerce
• 27:48 - Preparing for Q4: The Super Bowl of Logistics
• 32:06 - The Future of 3PL: Growth and Strategic Partnerships

Episode Resources

Connect with Luca Conner

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/luca-conner-96139a253/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/packn/
• https://www.gopackn.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith

In this episode of the Industrial Insights podcast, Dr. Noel Hacegaba, COO of the Port of Long Beach, discusses the critical role of the port in the Southern California economy, its operations, and future developments. The conversation covers misconceptions about port ownership, the economic impact of the port, the importance of rail infrastructure, the effects of tariffs, technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and workforce development. Dr. Hacegaba emphasizes the need for collaboration and innovation to meet future challenges in the supply chain and logistics industry.

Key Takeaways

• The Port of Long Beach is a significant economic engine, handling 40% of U.S. imports.
• Ports are often invisible until supply chain disruptions occur, as seen during the pandemic.
• The port is investing heavily in rail infrastructure to improve efficiency. Tariffs create uncertainty but are expected to stabilize in the long term.
• Technological advancements are crucial for improving port operations and efficiency. Sustainability initiatives are a priority, with a focus on zero emissions.
• Automation is present but not fully implemented at all terminals.
• Workforce development is essential for the future of the port and logistics industry. Collaboration between ports can enhance operational efficiency. The supply chain information highway improves visibility and data sharing among partners.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to the Port of Long Beach
• 02:45 - Understanding Port Operations and Ownership
• 05:36 - Economic Impact of the Port
• 08:20 - Container Volume and Economic Indicators
• 10:51 - Rail Infrastructure and Future Investments
• 13:49 - Technological Advancements in Port Operations
• 16:42 - Transition to Zero Emissions
• 19:12 - Workforce Development and Future Leaders
• 22:18 - Automation in Port Operations
• 24:49 - Global Port Comparisons
• 27:32 - Long-term Trends and Future Outlook

Episode Resources

Connect with Dr. Hacegaba

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-noel-hacegaba-60b7894/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/port-of-long-beach/
• https://polb.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith