Supply Chain Now

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of The Manufacturing Institute, to discuss the critical issues shaping the future of the manufacturing workforce. Carolyn shares her journey, from growing up in a manufacturing family to her leadership role at The Manufacturing Institute, where she works to bridge the skills gap and build the workforce of tomorrow.

They talk about the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, the importance of education and training programs like Heroes MAKE America and the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME), and how the manufacturing sector is evolving in response to technology and automation. Carolyn also discusses the power of storytelling to change perceptions of manufacturing careers and the impact of initiatives that support military veterans and their families in transitioning to high-demand manufacturing roles.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Bridging talent and manufacturing

(01:03)  Carolyn Lee: A Leader in Manufac

(07:32) The Manufacturing Institute's mission

(12:44) Empowering veterans with manufacturing career

(17:49) FAME: Advanced maintenance training

(21:42) The importance of core skills in manufacturing

(23:51) The role of AI and automation in manufacturing

(25:46) The future of manufacturing jobs

(29:33) Heroes MAKE America: Success stories

(30:44) Changing perceptions of manufacturing careers

(36:16) The power of Manufacturing Day

Additional Links and Resources:

• Connect with Carolyn Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynlee-mi/
• Learn more about The Manufacturing Institute: https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/
• Check out Heroes MAKE America: https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/heroes-make-america/
• 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- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2
• WEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcS
• WEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROx
• WEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2D
• WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton, Joshua Miranda, and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/evolving-manufacturing-industry-skills-technology-workforce-growth-1408

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 Bill Thorne, Senior Vice President of Communications, Research, and Marketing at the National Retail Federation (NRF) and host of the Retail Gets Real podcast. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of retail, from how customer insights drive innovation to the power of storytelling in shaping brand loyalty.

This engaging conversation covers the impact of COVID-19 on retail operations, how agility and speed became key to survival, and why retailers must embrace change to stay competitive. Bill also shares insights from his time at Walmart, lessons from Savannah’s booming port economy, and why successful retailers prioritize community and connection.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) The pace of change in retail

(01:22) The power of customer insights

(05:15) Retail storytelling and brand loyalty

(10:05) Savannah’s role in global supply chains

(14:26) The future of retail logistics

(18:03) Walmart’s digital transformation

(22:50) Retail’s pandemic response and lessons learned

(27:36) The importance of personalization in shopping

(31:11) Why agility is key in modern retail

(38:29) How data drives retail success

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Bill Thorne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-thorne-b82a146/
• Learn more about the National Retail Federation: https://nrf.com/
• Check out Retail Gets Real: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mpqKwH4QSDwFS8ukDbSIe?si=cdc84c550d034763
• 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- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2
• WEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcS
• WEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROx
• WEBINAR: Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2D

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/keeping-real-retail-leadership-1407

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.

The imposition of tariffs by the United States on various nations has emerged as a focal point of discussion, significantly impacting global trade dynamics.

In this episode of The Buzz, host Kevin L. Jackson delves into the ramifications of these tariffs, particularly on supply chain operations and international economic relations along with Warwick Powell, a distinguished expert in supply chain digitalization, who provides insightful analysis on the evolving landscape of trade and the necessity for agility amidst these challenges.

Listen in as they discuss:

• The critical intersection of technological advancement and geopolitical considerations
• The strategies that businesses can adopt to thrive in an ever-changing global market, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and adaptability
• And much more

Join us for a critical analysis and understanding of the current economic climate and its implications for supply chain leaders worldwide.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Warwick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warwickpowell/
• With That Said: https://bit.ly/3XUlxOg
• U.S. tariffs create urgent need for supply chain agility: https://bit.ly/4icqmLd
• Australia rules out reciprocal move on US after Trump proceeds with steel tariffs: https://bit.ly/3FBB0wu
• 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- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2
• WEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcS
• WEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROx
• WEBINAR: Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2D

This episode is hosted by Kevin L. Jackson and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-understanding-impact-global-trade-tariffs-1406

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.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Software reliability

(01:56) Golf experiences

(04:56) Ping Golf's global supply chain

(05:50) Implementing a new TMS

(09:36) Challenges and solutions in shipping

(13:47) Integration and benefits of Ship Links TMS

(19:19) Improving delivery speed and accuracy

(25:32) Shipping challenges and customer satisfaction

(26:00) Addressing freight charges and rate calculations

(26:52) Common shipping problems

(30:48) Implementation and transition strategies

(35:14) Real-time visibility and data analytics

(45:57) Mastering TMS Implementation

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Doug Wilson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaswilson1971/
• Connect with Shannon Vaillancourt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vaillancourt/
• Learn more about PING Golf: https://ping.com/en-us/
• Learn more about RateLinx: https://www.ratelinx.com/
• Connect with Scott: 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- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2
• WEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcS
• WEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROx
• WEBINAR: Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2D

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/ping-golf-success-faster-easier-fully-integrated-tms-1405

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 Dr. Stephanie Thomas and Dr. Rod Thomas, associate professors of Supply Chain Management at the Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of supply chain education, talent development, and the critical role of collaboration between academia and industry.

Stephanie and Rod share insights on preparing the NOW generation of supply chain leaders, discussing the increasing awareness of supply chain careers, the importance of experiential learning, and how companies can build stronger internship pipelines. They also dive into the intersection of retail media networks and supply chain strategy—an emerging opportunity to shape demand and improve operational efficiency.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Rod: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rod-thomas-a409a41/
• Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark/
• Learn more about the Sam M. Walton School of Business: https://walton.uark.edu/
• 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 produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/classroom-boardroom-preparing-now-generation-supply-chain-leaders-1404

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 us as we tackle the imperative role of innovation within the supply chain sector, particularly as organizations endeavor to navigate the complexities of the current global business landscape, today on The Buzz!

This week, hosts Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez explore critical topics, alongside special guest Jenny Froome, Director of Upavon, as they discuss:

• How the manufacturing industry in the United States is striving to rebound despite encountering significant obstacles
• The transformative potential of artificial intelligence in optimizing freight brokerage operations
• Insights into the upcoming SAPICS annual conference and Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards
• And much more!

Listen in on this episode, as we underscore the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in fostering a resilient supply chain ecosystem.

Additional Links & Resources:

• With That Said: https://bit.ly/3FhUOoI
• Manufacturing is on the rebound, but tariffs threaten growth: https://bit.ly/3FieSqZ
• 5 ways truck brokers are using AI to boost efficiency: https://bit.ly/3DvUJwS
• SAPICS Conference: https://conference.sapics.org/
• Survey: https://bit.ly/3Dtt93r
• Vector Global Logistics B Corp Certification: https://bit.ly/4bGmVtv
• Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-froome-ba3b09b/
• Connect with Enrique on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-alvarez-64332a2/
• Learn more about Vector Global Logistics: https://vectorgl.com
• Learn more about Logistics with Purpose: https://supplychainnow.com/program/logistics-with-purpose
• 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- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-innovation-resilience-opportunities-global-supply-chain-1403

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 highlights some of the most talked about topics in industry, including global economic trends, market news, the power of positive assumptions, and upcoming industry events.

Join us as Scott discusses insights on the top global economies projected for 2025, the bustling activity at US ports, the impact of tariffs on supply chains, Goodyear's transformation through AI and 3D printing, and the importance of maintaining positive assumptions in professional relationships.

Listen in for this great discussion, as well as a bonus preview of ProMat 2025 and National Supply Chain Day, encouraging community engagement and recognition of industry contributions.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Promat 2025: https://www.promatshow.com/home
• National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscd
• 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 produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/supply-chain-spotlight-global-economies-tariffs-power-positive-assumptions-1402

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 and Mike Griswold for this new episode of Supply Chain Now, as they delve into the intersection of Hollywood and supply chain leadership. In this episode, they explore how movies like "Hoosiers," "World War Z," and "Jaws" offer unexpected yet valuable lessons for supply chain professionals. From the importance of teamwork and broadening supply chain definitions to fostering dissenting perspectives and aligning planning with execution, these films provide unique insights into overcoming challenges and driving success in the supply chain industry.

Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with practical takeaways and a touch of cinematic fun.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
• Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
• 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- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/lights-camera-supply-chain-unexpected-supply-chain-leadership-lessons-iconic-films-1401

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.

Delve into the complexities of contemporary supply chain dynamics, with a particular emphasis on the increasing necessity for resilience amid various uncertainties, on this new episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now!

This week, hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy explore critical topics, alongside special guest Richard Howells, VP for ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain with SAP, and host of the podcast, The Future of Supply Chain. Join us as they discuss:

• The impact of tariffs and global trade patterns
• The significance of cultivating essential skill sets among the next generation of supply chain professionals, underscoring the importance of digital literacy, agility, and cross-functional collaboration
• Predictions for the future of supply chain management
• Warehouse capacity resilience
• Supply chain megatrends

Join us as we navigate these multifaceted challenges, emphasizing the paramount importance of the human element in driving successful supply chain outcomes.

Additional Links & Resources:

• With That Said: https://bit.ly/41DOi48
• How FabFitFun leveraged MagicLogic and EasyPost: https://bit.ly/4bslTl6
• Warehouse capacity resilience in the face of shipper frontloading: https://bit.ly/3QG3Y0m
• The looming tariff tsunami: Is your business ready? https://bit.ly/4h1gYbX
• DHL exec outlines 5 supply chain megatrends: https://bit.ly/3F4oGEU
• The Future of Supply Chain Podcast: https://bit.ly/41E85QT
• 5 Essential Skills of the Next Generation of Supply Chain Leaders: https://bit.ly/4klhWT8
• Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjhowells/
• National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscd/
• 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- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy produced by Amanda Luton and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-supply-chain-resilience-shifting-landscape-1400

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 the latest installment of The NOW Generation series on Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes special co-host Kevin Lawton, founder of the New Warehouse podcast and Adjunct Professor at Rider University, as they dive into the world of supply chain management with students Aiden Clements and Chase Tomlinson.

The discussion highlights the importance of sustainability, the hidden concentrations within supply chain roles, and the critical role of internships in shaping future supply chain leaders. Aiden and Chase share their aspirations and insights, emphasizing the global nature of supply chain and the power of data analytics.

Join us for an episode that underscores the value of practical experience and continuous learning in driving innovation and efficiency in the industry.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinclawton/
• Connect with Aiden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aiden-clements/
• Connect with Chase: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chase-tomlinson
• Learn more about The New Warehouse Podcast: http://www.thenewwarehouse.com
• Learn more about our hosts here: https://supplychainnow.com/about
• 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 produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/now-generation-discovering-hidden-opportunities-supply-chain-management-1399

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.