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In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton talks with Brett Johnson, IT Director at A&A Global, and Shannon Vaillancourt, President and Founder of RateLinx, about A&A Global’s journey to transform their shipping operations. Brett details how they addressed inefficiencies in their old TMS, implementing RateLinx’s flexible toolkit to streamline processes, reduce costs, and scale operations without adding staff.
The conversation explores how A&A Global overcame challenges like manual data entry, slow carrier onboarding, and inaccurate rate quoting through powerful integrations like ScanForce, Cubiscan, and mobile printing. Brett and Shannon also highlight the role of Lean Six Sigma practices in driving continuous improvement and achieving significant cost savings, faster shipping, and enhanced efficiency.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:39) Meet the industry leaders
(02:46) Challenges faced by A&A Global
(05:56) Issues with previous TMS
(08:30) The need for speed and efficiency
(13:42) Selection process for a new TMS
(18:03) Integration and implementation
(27:55) The new car vs. new software analogy
(29:42) Challenges with previous TMS
(30:44) Choosing RateLinx and ShipLinx TMS
(32:29) Implementation philosophy
(37:29) Automation and labor cost savings
(45:42) Advice for IT and operations leaders
Resources:
This 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/toys-tech-tms-1478
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Deborah Dull welcome Will Mansard and Ahmed Arif of Bastian Solutions for a practical, field-tested conversation on retrofitting brownfield warehouses and the real cost of doing nothing. They frame retrofits as logistical projects first, unpack why so much existing space goes underutilized, and share how to minimize disruption while upgrading live operations.
They discuss the playbook that works in the real world: start with discovery and reverse engineering when documentation is thin, build a phased mechanical plan, sequence electrical with quick-connect, preassembled components, and treat controls and software as the heart of the system using emulation and thorough testing. With rules one and two both being “get orders out the door,” they stress contingency planning, speaking the customer’s language, and orchestrating equipment, controls, and software to avoid faults and bottlenecks.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(09:27) What defines a brownfield warehouse site
(12:19) Addressing customer concerns about cost
(15:53) Viewing retrofits as logistical projects
(20:14) Why orchestration matters in automation
(22:44) Critical considerations for warehouse retrofits
(24:26) Setting realistic project expectations upfront
(25:53) Deborah’s favorite retrofit planning framework
(26:36) Minimizing disruption with new technologies
(29:37) Speaking the customer’s language effectively
(32:40) Examples of successful retrofit projects
(40:35) Enterprise-level considerations for customers
Resources:
This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Deborah Dull and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/brownfield-breakthrough-evolving-operations-retrofits-1477
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes special guest Abe Eshkenazi, CEO of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), to discuss the reinvention of ASCM's annual supply chain event, now rebranded as CHAINge North America 2025.
Scheduled for September 9th and 10th in Columbus, Ohio, CHAINge North America 2025 aims to provide supply chain leaders with opportunities to gather critical market intelligence and learn strategies to tackle both existing and emerging challenges. Listen in as Scott and Abe discuss the importance of collaboration, technology, and talent development in navigating the current dynamic supply chain landscape, key insights from the 2025 ASCM Supply Chain Salary and Career Report, and highlight significant gains in supply chain compensation and the increasing recognition of supply chain professionals' roles.
Tune in for an episode that underscores the value of human interaction and relationship-building in addressing the complex challenges faced by supply chain professionals today.
Additional Links & Resources:
This 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/breaking-news-now-ready-chainge-2025-ascm-1476
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Jorge Morales, Global COO of the International Supply Chain Education Alliance (ISCEA), and Sandeep Chatterjee, Growth Leader, Digital Business Solutions, Supply Chain and Sustainability Pillar at INFOLOB, to explore how organizations can build resilience and clarity in today’s dynamic supply chain landscape. Jorge shares how ISCEA is equipping professionals through global certification programs and education, while Sandeep highlights his outcome-based approach to digital transformation and his insights from his book, The Consulting Way.
They cover key strategies for driving profitability and resilience, including smarter inventory management, bold choices in multimodal transportation, and the adoption of advanced technologies such as 3D printing and supply chain simulation. Jorge and Sandeep also discuss the importance of continuous skill-building, trust among supply chain partners, and the role of upcoming industry events like the Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH) in helping leaders prepare for the future of supply chain.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(02:35) Climbing Mount Everest and managing family logistics
(06:47) Sandeep's role at INFOLOB
(08:59) Jorge's role at ISCEA
(14:49) Sandeep’s book “The Consulting Way”
(18:08) Optimizing supply chain profitability
(24:38) Eliminating decision-making in supply chains
(25:07) Leveraging data and technology for faster decisions
(26:08) Innovations in transportation
(27:48) Challenging assumptions in leadership
(28:59) The role of technology in decision making
(32:14) Trust in supply chain partnerships
(33:30) The upcoming Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH)
(37:37) Examples of supply chain innovations
(40:48) Sandeep’s keynote on quick commerce
Resources:
This 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/how-supply-chain-leaders-finding-calm-clarity-amidst-chaos-1475
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Additional Links & Resources:
This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Allison GIddens and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-innovations-warehouse-automation-1474
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this moving episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton sits down with Kristi Porter, Adrian Purtill, and Enrique Alvarez of Vector Global Logistics to explore a powerful story of purpose and community. Adrian shares a deeply personal initiative in honor of his late ex-wife, Kathy Purtill, who bravely battled leukemia. To carry her legacy forward, their son Kieran is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
This conversation goes beyond logistics, shining a light on the value of giving forward, building community, and leading with purpose. The Vector Global Logistics team reflects on how purpose-driven action can change lives—both in the global supply chain and beyond.
Learn how you can support Kieran’s mission, and be inspired to embrace the power of relationships, resilience, and purpose.
Additional Links & Resources:
This 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/honoring-legacy-moving-climbing-mountains-1473
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and special guest host Kim Humphrey, President & CEO of AME (Association for Manufacturing Excellence), welcome retired Air Force Lieutenant General Andy Busch, Strategic Advisor at Goldratt Consulting, for a high-impact conversation on the Theory of Constraints (TOC) and its ability to transform complex operations. Drawing from a 38-year military career, Andy shares how TOC’s five focusing steps helped him cut C-5 aircraft maintenance timelines from 340 days to 110, save hundreds of millions through inventory discipline, and reduce a 15-month procurement backlog to just three months. He also highlights the leadership skills required to drive these changes, including clear communication, organizational alignment, and active workforce engagement.
They also discuss the universal applicability of TOC across industries and geographies, with Andy recounting implementations at the Defense Logistics Agency, large-scale MRO depots, and in international settings such as Japan and India. From managing high-variability environments to avoiding the trap of local optimization, the conversation delivers actionable insights for supply chain and manufacturing leaders seeking breakthrough results, stronger team alignment, and sustained performance improvement in today’s volatile business climate.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(02:47) Meet Andy Busch
(05:29) From Utah trails to global supply chain insights
(13:32) The impact of the Theory of Constraints
(25:28) Implementing consumption pull systems
(29:29) Five focusing steps vs. five whys
(30:42) Work in process discipline
(32:44) Overcoming supply chain hurdles
(37:05) International experiences with TOC
(43:07) How to navigate industry volatility
(45:45) Why focus is key to organization's success
Resources:
This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Humphrey and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/how-theory-constraints-drive-enterprise-impact-1472
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we present a profound exploration of contemporary developments within the realm of supply chain management, with a particular emphasis on the resurgence of reshoring initiatives. Welcome to The Buzz!
Host Scott Luton and special guest host Christine Barnhart, aka The Supply Chain Whisperer, discuss the top news in global supply chain including:
Join us as we dissect these pivotal topics and provide actionable insights for supply chain leaders navigating this dynamic landscape.
Additional Links & Resources:
This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Christine Barnhart, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-reshoring-revolution-1471
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Karin Bursa welcome Bobby Holland of U.S. Bank and Bob Costello of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) for a timely and data-rich discussion on the Q2 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index—and what the latest shifts in the freight economy mean for shippers, carriers, and supply chain leaders.
They discuss the first quarter in over two years where all five U.S. regions saw increases in shipment volume, signaling a potential turning point after a prolonged slowdown. Bobby shares fresh Index data on spend and shipment velocity, while Bob brings broader economic context, including consumer spending patterns, inflationary pressure, and the uneven pace of recovery. From driver shortages and regional capacity gaps to policy impacts and shifting inventory strategies, the panel examines how these macroeconomic forces are playing out in freight and what they could mean for the rest of 2025, offering insights for supply chain professionals preparing for continued volatility, opportunities in cross-border trade, and early signs of renewed activity.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(00:51) Overview of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index
(06:15) National freight trends and insights
(22:26) Midwest region analysis
(25:59) Rebalancing supply chains
(26:57) Consumer spending trends
(27:33) Goods vs. services spending
(29:30) Northeast region insights
(36:31) Southeast region insights
(44:56) Future of freight markets
Resources:
This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/analysis-q2-2025-us-bank-freight-payment-index-1470
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Join Scott Luton from Supply Chain Now at the SAPICS 2025 conference in Cape Town, South Africa, for a high-energy conversation with two powerhouse innovators: Deborah Dull, founder & managing partner of Trillium Digital Services, and Kevin Meredith, “innovation obsessor” with Fourth Sector Innovations and the Circular Supply Chain Network.
From Boeing to building innovation systems, Kevin shares how confidence, leadership, and curiosity fuel breakthrough ideas. Deborah dives into the world of circular supply chains, showing how collaboration and sustainable practices can transform industries. Together, they explore:
Packed with insights, inspiration, and actionable takeaways, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone ready to embrace new ideas and tackle global challenges through innovation.
Additional Links & Resources:
This 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/innovation-motion-driving-change-creativity-curiosity-collaboration-1469
The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.
For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]
© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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