Supply Chain Now

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton hosts a discussion with Ryan Hanson, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Staples, and Shannon Vaillancourt, CEO and President at RateLinx, with a conversation focused on optimizing supply chain performance through a hybrid logistics model that leverages both in-house teams and third-party logistics providers (3PLs).

Ryan describes Staples' extensive supply chain network and how it ensures top-notch customer experiences by integrating rigorous automation and strategic partnerships. Shannon emphasizes the importance of real-time data and effective communication for building trust and streamlining operations between shippers and 3PLs. Together, they explore the benefits of this hybrid approach in driving cost savings, enhancing customer satisfaction, and fostering innovation in the fast-moving world of logistics.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:56) Staples supply chain footprint

(04:14) Hybrid models and strategic control

(08:25) Technology's role in supply chain

(17:52) Cost optimization and value creation

(20:23) Uncovering insights with shared analytics

(21:15) Impact of shipping costs on growth strategy

(22:37) Compliance and its impact on business

(24:32) Finding trusted accelerants for growth

(27:28) Fostering a culture of innovation

(32:35) The importance of relationships in supply chain

(36:42) Knowing the capabilities of your players

Resources:

• Connect with Shannon Valliancourt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vaillancourt/
• Connect with Ryan Hanson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-hanson-9869904/
• Learn more about RateLinx: https://www.ratelinx.com/
• Learn more about Staples: https://www.staples.com
• Learn more about the RateLinx Insight Conference: https://www.ratelinx.com/ratelinx-insight-conference/
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• 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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKd
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq
• WEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging Manufacturer Unlock Millions in Capex: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUF
• WEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3
• WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEi
• WEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3

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/power-hybrid-approach-5-reasons-combine-in-house-team-3pl-1448

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.

On today's episode of The Buzz, we dive into the evolving landscape of the supply chain, particularly emphasizing the significance of technological innovation in trucking and the emerging role of younger generations within the industry. Welcome to The Buzz!

This week, hosts Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson welcome special guest, founder of Truck N' Hustle, Rahmel Wattley, to the show. Listen in as they discuss:

• Port volumes and the impact of tariffs
• Metal supply chains, where China's control over rare earth processing poses strategic challenges
• The expectations of young professionals in the trucking industry, emphasizing the importance of employee experience, flexible work environments, and mental health resources
• Insights regarding the intersection of entrepreneurship and transportation logistics, highlighting the transformative potential of reshaping traditional practices
• An innovative infrastructure project aims to streamline trade between the US and Mexico with a dedicated elevated train lane

This episode ultimately underscores the vital importance of adaptability and forward-thinking as we forge ahead in a rapidly changing economic environment. Join us as we explore these critical themes and more in detail, providing a comprehensive overview of today's supply chain challenges and opportunities.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Rahmel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahmel-wattley-64004a171/
• Learn more about Truck N' Hustle: Trucknhustle.com
• With That Said: https://bit.ly/3I6YtXy
• Protolabs: https://bit.ly/3HTKV1w
• Truckers see less business as Los Angeles port volumes slow: https://bit.ly/3G7lGZb
• Military demand strains metal supply chains: https://bit.ly/3ZLVgTw
• In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4983804/06E5641B392BEE394780495531F9AE91?partnerref= Trucking’s Next Generation Brings New Ideas to the Workplace: https://bit.ly/4nf79Ly
• The $10 Billion Proposal to Speed Up U.S.-Mexico Trade: https://bit.ly/467m2JK
• Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: 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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKd
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq
• WEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging Manufacturer Unlock Millions in Capex: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUF
• WEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3
• WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEi
• WEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-transformation-trucking-industry-1447

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 inspiring and special episode from the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium in Orlando, Scott Luton of Supply Chain Now sits down with Whitney Shlesinger, Vice President of Global Planning and Logistics at McCormick & Company. From the bold flavors of Old Bay, Frank’s RedHot, and Cholula to global supply chain innovation, Whitney shares how McCormick is blending strategy, sustainability, and leadership development to stay ahead.

Key takeaways include:

• How McCormick structures its supply chain for resilience and growth
• The power of data-driven planning and scenario modeling
• Why diversity and mentorship are critical to the future of supply chain
• How the supply chain functions as a unifying force across the business

Whether you’re a supply chain leader or emerging professional, this episode is packed with insights on vision, structure, and building a culture of excellence.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Whitney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-shlesinger/
• Learn more about McCormick: https://www.mccormickcorporation.com/
• Watch our other interviews from Gartner Supply Chain Symposium 2025: https://supplychainnow.com/gartner-2025
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Check out Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKd
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq
• WEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging Manufacturer Unlock Millions in Capex: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUF
• WEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3
• WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEi
• WEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3

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/inside-mccormicks-bold-supply-chain-strategy-1446

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 Luton and Tevon Taylor sit down with Will Quinn, supply chain consultant at CAMM Consulting and better known as The Distribution Guy® to unpack the evolving world of warehousing and distribution. With a rich background spanning military logistics, Coca-Cola operations, and enterprise tech systems, Will offers a grounded yet forward-looking view of how distribution excellence is built from the floor up.

Together, they explore why the biggest risk in distribution is doing nothing, how to use AI to document standard operating procedures, and what the dirtiest ceiling fan in the building might say about a warehouse's performance. Will also shares why digital transformation should support—not drive—your business strategy and why automation won’t replace people, but poorly managed change might.

The discussion also touches on tariff-induced uncertainty, rising labor costs, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and the rising importance of nearshoring. Will and Tevon share leadership insights that emphasize culture, consistency, and communication—and leave us with a simple but powerful reminder: success starts with taking care of your people.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:23) Will Quinn, The Distribution Guy®

(04:39) Stories and personal backgrounds

(13:33) Diving into distribution and warehousing

(16:55) Tariffs and global supply chains

(20:01) Operational mistakes in warehouse strategy

(25:31) Cybersecurity in the supply chain

(25:59) Best practices for preventing hacks

(26:49) Recognizing phishing attempts

(27:15) Operational resilience and cybersecurity

(29:16) Assessing warehouse efficiency

(30:32) Key factors in warehouse management

(31:53) The importance of culture in warehousing

(35:37) Risks in technology adoption

(42:01) Preparing for the future of warehousing

(45:02) How to connect with Will and Tevon

Resources:

• Learn more about The Distribution Guy®: https://www.thedistributionguy.com
• Connect with Will: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedistributionguy
• Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Connect with Tevon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tevontaylor/
• 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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQ
• WEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKd
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq
• WEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3
• WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEi

This 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/distribution-strategy-operations-insights-1445

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.

On today's episode of The Buzz, we dive into the critical topics impacting global supply chain. Welcome to The Buzz!

This week, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome special guest Kim Winter, Founder and Global Managing Director of Logistics Executive Group, to the show. Listen in as they discuss:

• The transportation sector's increasing cyber risks
• The evolving role of AI and how it can enhance supply chain operations
• Key takeaways from major industry events, including Messe Muenchen Transport Logistic and Logisym Singapore
• The importance of digital transformation, automation, and flexibility in talent acquisition
• Geopolitical impacts on supply chains, particularly in the Middle East

Join us and for insights and new strategies to navigate the complexities of modern supply chains.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimblewinter/
• Lean more about Logistics Executive Group: www.logisticsexecutivegroup.com
• With That Said: https://bit.ly/43LvcdD
• U.S. Bank 2025 Q1 Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bank
• Transport sector facing rising cyber risks amid AI boom: https://securitybrief.com.au/story/transport-sector-faces-rising-cyber-risks-amid-ai-boom
• Unlocking the potential of AI in transportation and logistics back office operations: https://www.thescxchange.com/finance-strategy/plan/unlocking-the-potential-of-ai-in-transportation-and-logistics-back-office-operations
• 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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQ
• WEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKd
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq
• WEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3
• WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEi

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-cyber-risks-transportation-sector-1444

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 Kevin L. Jackson sit down with Antonio Bustamante, CEO of bem, to explore how automation is reshaping the supply chain landscape in 2025. Together, they unpack the hidden costs of manual workflows, the pitfalls of outdated systems, and the massive opportunity in eliminating data friction.

Antonio shares how bem helps teams move away from time-consuming email and PDF-based processes toward self-healing, AI-powered systems that learn from every operator input. He discusses why the freight world is especially burdened by unstructured data, and how automation can free up teams to focus on serving customers, not fixing typos.

The conversation also covers the limitations of RPA and email triage, the challenge of achieving interoperability across legacy systems, and why meeting operators where they are (even if that means faxes and handwritten notes) is key to meaningful digital transformation. Plus, Antonio offers a peek at bem’s upcoming Command Center, a tool that gives ops teams the power to correct, route, and improve workflows without relying on engineering.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:49) The importance of automation in supply chain

(06:57) Challenges of manual data entry

(13:47) Unstructured data in supply chain

(21:06) The role of communication in logistics

(22:34) Understanding multimodal communication

(23:45) Challenges with RPA and email triage

(24:44) Embracing real-world data

(27:09) The role of handwritten notes

(27:49) BIM's impact on manual processing

(30:39) Introducing the command center

(40:08) Composable infrastructure

Additional Links & Resources:

• Learn more about bem: https://blog.bem.ai/
• Connect with Antonio Bustamante: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abmirayo/
• Loop automates data transformation at scale for new clients with bem: https://www.bem.ai/customer-stories/loop-automates-data-transformation-at-scale-for-new-clients-with-bem
• The Supply Chain Back Office Is Broken: https://lp.supplychainnow.com/bem
• For more content with bem and Supply Chain Now, check out the bem Campaign Landing Page: https://supplychainnow.com/bem
• 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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQ
• WEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution: https://bit.ly/44b8GKd
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq
• WEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3
• WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEi

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/inbox-action-supply-chains-automating-mess-away-1443

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 back Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to explore what sets the supply chain Masters apart from the rest. With companies like Amazon, Apple, Procter & Gamble, and Unilever topping the list, Mike unpacks the leadership behaviors, strategic investments, and operational models that have helped them sustain excellence year over year.

From Amazon’s $4 billion bet on rural delivery infrastructure to Apple’s global shift in manufacturing strategy, the discussion reveals how today’s top performers stay adaptive and resilient in the face of change. Mike also spotlights how inclusive design and sustainable packaging are redefining product development at P&G, and how Unilever is leaning into startup partnerships to accelerate innovation at scale.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:16) Kicking off with a fun fact

(03:23) VHS memories and video rentals

(07:25) Gartner supply chain top 25 overview

(11:04) Amazon's major investment in dural Delivery

(17:18) Apple's production shift to india and vietnam

(22:34) P&G's innovations and the power of packaging

(28:56) Unilever's 100+ accelerator program

(34:49) Upcoming Gartner planning summits

(35:22) Why attend the planning summits

(38:12) Connecting with Mike Griswold

Additional Links & Resources

• Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
• Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9q
• WEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQ
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq

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/masterful-supply-chain-leadership-apple-amazon-unilever-1442

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.

On today's episode of The Buzz, we discuss the pressing need for supply chain professionals to embrace generative AI technologies without delay. As we traverse the complexities of the global freight market, we underscore the imperative of adopting innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience Welcome to The Buzz!

This week, hosts Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez welcome special guests Brain Greene and Laura Beyer from Realized Solutions, Inc. Listen in as they tackle:

• The significance of leveraging technology to not only streamline processes but also to fortify data integrity within organizations
• The common barriers to AI adoption, emphasizing that organizations must prioritize data quality and the cultivation of strategic partnerships to navigate the digital transformation effectively
• Critical observations on the burgeoning freight market, emphasizing the impact of tariff fluctuations on shipping volumes and port congestion

Join us as we aim to equip our audience with actionable insights and a renewed perspective on the future of supply chain management, advocating for a proactive approach in the face of evolving challenges.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Brian: www.linkedin.com/in/brian-greene-285657160
• Connect with Laura: www.linkedin.com/in/laura-beyer-ba61656
• Learn more about Realized Solutions: https://www.myrsi.com
• Supply Chain Leaders Embrace AI but Struggle to Bridge Technology Implementation Gap: https://bit.ly/43X92DV
• 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/3XH6OVk

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-importance-generative-ai-today-business-1441

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 Luton and Kim Reuter welcome Lindsey Billing and Paul Boothe for a conversation on how AI is transforming the future of supply chain—from warehouse automation to intelligent forecasting and data-driven decision-making. Together, they explore real-world innovations already in play and what it takes to turn buzzwords like “AI” and “automation” into actual value.

Lindsey shares how NLS is piloting robotics and autonomous systems to reduce costs and increase speed, while Kim breaks down why clean, connected data is foundational for any successful AI strategy. Paul brings perspective on where companies should focus their AI investments to unlock faster wins without losing the human touch. They discuss consumer unpredictability, data readiness, customer experience, and how today’s tech is shaping tomorrow’s fulfillment.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(04:05) Meet the guests: Lindsey Billing and Paul Boothe

(08:42) What innovation looks like in today’s supply chain

(13:15) Robotics, automation, and AI use cases

(17:58) Why clean data matters more than cool tools

(22:21) Forecasting with AI: Demand, labor, and inventory

(27:09) Balancing automation with human touch in customer service

(32:33) Consumer unpredictability and data-driven decision-making

(36:47) AI hype vs. AI practicality

(41:10) Where to start with AI adoption in supply chain

(46:00) Final thoughts: what’s next in supply chain tech

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Lindsey Billing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseybilling/
• Connect with Paul Boothe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-boothe-0885aaa/
• Learn more about Osa Commerce: https://www.osacommerce.com/
• Learn more about NLS: https://nls.ca/
• Check out the Osa Commerce Supply Chain Trends Report: https://osacommerce.com/download-2025-supply-chain-trends
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Connect with Kimberly Reuter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-reuter-csg/
• 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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9q
• WEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQ
• WEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zN
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/transformative-power-ai-3pl-operating-systems-1440

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 sits down with Billy Ray Taylor, CEO and President of LinkedXL, to explore the foundational principles behind high-performing supply chain organizations. Drawing on his decades of leadership at Goodyear and his work with industry teams today, Billy Ray shares how speed, clarity, and connected systems drive real, measurable change.

He breaks down five timeless yet urgent considerations for modern leadership—from rethinking KPIs as KPAs, to cultivating ownership and alignment across the organization, to architecting operating systems that empower people at every level. As Billy Ray says, “Speed is the currency of leadership”—and in today’s rapidly evolving world, it’s not just a competitive edge, it’s a necessity.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:59) Billy Ray's career journey at Goodyear

(07:05) Key lessons from turnarounds

(10:52) Current endeavors and LinkedXL

(15:48) The importance of execution over strategy

(19:06) Speed of execution as the new competitive advantage

(22:08) The double-edged sword of modern business

(22:59) Customer loyalty and speed

(23:38) The role of clarity and ownership

(28:15) Leadership presence in the digital era

(35:01) The connected business model

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Billy Ray Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billyrtaylor/
• Learn more about LinkedXL: https://www.linkedxl.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/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9q
• WEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQ
• WEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYq

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/five-key-driving-organizational-change-2025-1439

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.