Supply Chain Now

The data doesn't lie, and in Q1 2026, it's telling a story the freight industry hasn't seen in years.

In this special episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton and Karin Bursa welcome Bobby Holland, Director of Freight Business Analytics at U.S. Bank, and Bob Costello, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President at the American Trucking Associations, for a deep dive into the latest U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index for Q1 2026.

The episode unpacks seven critical takeaways from the quarter, including a historic 12.9% spike in freight spending, a rare supply-side recovery driven by tightening capacity and surging fuel costs, and regional breakdowns across the West, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast, with stops on tariff impacts, cross-border trade with Canada and Mexico, and what a $7.22-per-gallon diesel price in California means for the broader economy.

Together, they explore why this recovery is unlike anything we've seen since the pandemic boom, what the Goldman Sachs recession outlook gets right (and wrong), and how supply chain leaders can use real, verified freight data, not feelings, to make smarter decisions in an unpredictable 2026.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:29) Introducing the dynamic duo: Bobby Holland & Bob Costello

(06:23) Bobby's headline summary

(09:47) How industry leaders use the Freight Payment Index

(10:01) National-level results: spending jumps 12.9%

(10:54) A rare supply-side recovery

(13:10) West region: highest shipment levels since 2023

(17:20) Southwest region: 10th straight quarter of declines

(21:40) Midwest region: strongest quarter since Q1 2018

(26:05) Winter storms break the streak

(28:11) Canada & Mexico trade: tariff impact on cross-border freight

(33:20) Southeast region: the only region posting declines

(41:32) Goldman Sachs vs. economic reality

(44:28) Freight market forecast: what's ahead in 2026

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Bob Costello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-costello-444bb670/
• Connect with Bobby Holland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland-4a9355/
• Connect with Karin Bursa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinbursa/
• Learn more about American Trucking Associations: https://www.trucking.org/
• Learn more about U.S. Bank: https://www.usbank.com/index.html
• 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://supplychainnow.com/media-kit/
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq
• WEBINAR- Amazon Supply Chain 101: Enabling efficiency and growth for businesses everywhere–and everywhere they sell: https://bit.ly/49r8N7D
• WEBINAR- The Expanding Role of Supply Chain Optimization Teams in Driving Business Impact: https://bit.ly/3PHRAAf

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-q1-2026-us-bank-freight-payment-index-1588

In this episode of The Buzz, we explore the accelerating pace of supply chain transformation—from AI and automation to talent challenges, micro-fulfillment, and the evolving role of leadership in a volatile business environment. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by OptiLogic!

Hosts Scott Luton and Rick McDonald unpack some of the biggest developments shaping global supply chain today, including Amazon’s expanding supply chain services model, the growing pressure on traditional logistics providers, and the continued rise of AI-first operations. The conversation also dives into key takeaways from MODEX 2026, highlighting trends in warehouse automation, robotics, talent development, forecasting, and change management. Along the way, the episode draws leadership lessons from legendary Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox and explores what today’s supply chain leaders must do to stay resilient, competitive, and customer-focused in an era defined by disruption and rapid innovation.

Key Learnings & Takeaways

• AI is reshaping supply chain strategy, forecasting, and operational decision-making
• Amazon’s supply chain services expansion could significantly disrupt logistics markets
• Warehouse automation and robotics continue to accelerate across the industry
• Change management remains one of the biggest barriers to successful transformation
• Companies must rethink hiring strategies to secure future-ready talent
• Data only matters if it solves meaningful business problems
• Micro-fulfillment and faster delivery expectations are redefining supply chain networks
• Strong leadership, adaptability, and customer focus are more critical than ever

As supply chains face mounting complexity, rising customer expectations, and constant disruption, organizations that embrace innovation, invest in talent, and execute with agility will separate themselves from the competition. This episode delivers practical insights and forward-looking perspectives for leaders navigating the next era of supply chain transformation.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Optilogic: https://optilogic.com/
• Optilogic Webinar: Ahead of Disruption: https://bit.ly/AI-First-SupplyChainDesign
• With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-17-May-2026
• Bobby Cox Leadership: https://bit.ly/Bobby-Cox-Leadership
• Supply Chain USA 2026: https://bit.ly/Reuters-Supply-Chain-USA-2026
• Beyond the Robot: Why Software Is Driving the Next Wave of Warehouse Automation: https://bit.ly/4tFjJ8Y
• Building the Next Generation of Supply Chain Leaders: https://bit.ly/4nBrJGx
• Think Small to Win Big: Rethinking Supply Chain Design in the Age of E-Commerce: https://bit.ly/4dUkJjZ
• How to Find Cost Reductions in Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/Finding-Cost-Reductions-In-Your-SupplyChain
• There's No Finish Line in Leadership: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5330395/392D4899CF71F7895EAF22D08D987BA0
• Upcoming Live Programming: https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/
• Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/
• Rick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickmcdonald82/
• 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- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq
• WEBINAR- Amazon Supply Chain 101: Enabling efficiency and growth for businesses everywhere–and everywhere they sell: https://bit.ly/49r8N7D
• WEBINAR- The Expanding Role of Supply Chain Optimization Teams in Driving Business Impact: https://bit.ly/3PHRAAf

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Rick McDonald and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/the-buzz-supply-chain-leaders-must-adapt-faster-than-ever

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.

Most organizations don't have a technology problem. They have a focus problem.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton, together with co-host Kim Humphrey, President and CEO of AME, is joined by Rami Goldratt, CEO of Goldratt Group, for a practical, no-fluff deep dive into the Theory of Constraints and what it actually takes to drive breakthrough performance in today's business environment. From why most companies are automating what they can instead of what they should, to the danger of spreading resources thin across too many initiatives, Rami brings decades of real-world experience helping organizations across manufacturing, retail, automotive, engineering, and logistics unlock significant gains in throughput and lead time reduction. Kim adds her lens on why continuous improvement and constraints-thinking are more intertwined than ever, and why the principles Rami's father Dr. Eliyahu Goldratt pioneered are not just still relevant but urgently needed right now.

The conversation spans the full arc: inherent simplicity, managing uncertainty with buffers and fast feedback loops, the tug of war between local efficiency and global performance, and what it looks like when an entire engineering organization aligns behind a single constraint to achieve the impossible. The Mazda story alone is worth the listen. If you're navigating complexity, chasing results that keep falling short, or trying to build an organization that can actually adapt and execute, this one's for you.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(08:43) Rami's career journey and key lessons learned

(15:26) The legacy and simplicity of Dr Eliyahu Goldratt

(18:30) Biggest trends and challenges facing businesses today

(23:39) What is Theory of Constraints and the three fears

(28:09) Why forecasts keep getting less accurate over time

(31:35) Common TOC misconceptions and local vs global efficiency

(38:09) Why supply chain variety is destroying forecast accuracy

(47:15) The Mazda case study and TOC in action

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Rami Goldratt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramigoldratt/
• Learn more about Goldratt Consulting: https://goldrattgroup.com/
• Connect with Kim Humphrey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlee-kim-h-5977474/
• Learn more about AME: https://www.ame.org/
• 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://supplychainnow.com/media-kit/
• WEBINAR- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq
• WEBINAR- Amazon Supply Chain 101: Enabling efficiency and growth for businesses everywhere–and everywhere they sell: https://bit.ly/49r8N7D
• WEBINAR- The Expanding Role of Supply Chain Optimization Teams in Driving Business Impact: https://bit.ly/3PHRAAf

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/why-theory-constraints-more-relevant-than-ever-before-1586

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.

Every year, Americans return nearly a trillion dollars’ worth of products. But once those items leave our hands, most of us never think about where they go—or what happens next.

In this Supply Chain Now Classic Episode, first published in early Februry 2026, host Deborah Dull takes listeners inside the little-known world of reverse logistics, where returned products are sorted, resold, recycled, repaired, or too often, discarded. What emerges is a complex and fragmented system struggling to capture more than $200 billion in lost value—along with critical materials that could power a more resilient, sustainable economy.

This special feature explores the people, processes, and infrastructure behind returns, revealing both the challenges and the massive untapped opportunity hidden in plain sight. From outdated systems and disconnected networks to innovative approaches reshaping how products are recovered and reused, Remade in America uncovers what’s really happening after “return” is clicked.

Along the way, Deborah asks a provocative question: Is “Made in America” still the right goal—or is the future about something more powerful?

What if the real opportunity isn’t just making more, but making better use of what we already have?

Through expert insights, real-world stories, and on-the-ground perspectives, Remade in America redefines how we think about returns, recovery, and the future of supply chains in a resource-constrained world.

This is a story about waste, value, resilience—and how reimagining reverse logistics could help reshape American industry for the next generation.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Deborah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahdull/
• 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- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq
• WEBINAR- Amazon Supply Chain 101: Enabling efficiency and growth for businesses everywhere–and everywhere they sell: https://bit.ly/49r8N7D
• WEBINAR- The Expanding Role of Supply Chain Optimization Teams in Driving Business Impact: https://bit.ly/3PHRAAf

This episode is hosted by 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/remade-america-1541

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 The Buzz, we explore the future of reverse logistics, circularity, supply chain design, and the growing role of AI in transforming how businesses move, manage, and reuse products. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by OptiLogic!

Hosts Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson break down several major supply chain developments, including the rise of AI-first supply chain design, the growing need for visibility in big and bulky retail deliveries, and Amazon’s expanding supply chain services. Special guest Sender Shamiss, CEO and co-founder of ReturnPro, joins the conversation to unpack why reverse logistics is becoming a major strategic opportunity, not just a cost center. From returns management and recommerce to circularity, fraud detection, and the future of reusable materials, this episode offers a practical look at how supply chain leaders can unlock value, reduce waste, and rethink what happens after the sale.

Key Learnings & Takeaways

• AI-first supply chain design is accelerating smarter, faster decision-making
• Big and bulky retail delivery still needs better visibility and customer communication
• Amazon’s supply chain services could reshape fulfillment, logistics, and recommerce
• Reverse logistics is moving from a back-end function to a strategic growth engine
• Reuse should come before recycling when building circular supply chains
• Returns fraud is creating new challenges—and new technology opportunities
• Circularity will require better data, smarter systems, and more investment

As supply chains become more complex, the biggest opportunities may come from rethinking what already exists: returned products, reused materials, smarter networks, and better visibility. This episode is a must-listen for leaders looking to turn reverse logistics from a challenge into a competitive advantage.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Optilogic: https://optilogic.com/
• Optilogic Webinar: Ahead of Disruption: https://bit.ly/AI-First-SupplyChainDesign
• With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-9-May-2026
• Why big and bulky delivery is the final frontier for retail supply chains: https://bit.ly/Big-And-Bulky-Innovation
• Amazon opens logistics network to all businesses: https://bit.ly/Amazon-Launches-ASCS
• Reverse Logistics: The Strategic Engine Driving the Secondary Mobile Device Market: https://bit.ly/Mobile-Device-Reverse-Logistics
• Startup Pitches X-Rays and AI to Catch Fraudulent Returns: https://bit.ly/42wavRp
• ReturnPro: https://www.returnpro.com/
• Upcoming Live Programming: https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/
• Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/
• Sender on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sender-shamiss-19796515/
• 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- There's No Finish Line in Leadership: Tips to Optimize Your Strategy & Execution: https://bit.ly/4tHOWJA
• WEBINAR- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq
• WEBINAR- Amazon Supply Chain 101: Enabling efficiency and growth for businesses everywhere–and everywhere they sell: https://bit.ly/49r8N7D
• WEBINAR- The Expanding Role of Supply Chain Optimization Teams in Driving Business Impact: https://bit.ly/3PHRAAf

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-reverse-logistics-reshaping-retail-recommerce-1584

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.

AI in the supply chain has moved well beyond the pilot stage, but for many organizations, it still hasn't moved far enough.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton, together with co-host Jorge Morales, Global COO of ISCEA, is joined by Prabhat Pinnaka, Lead Product Manager for Supply Chain at Lowe's Companies, Inc., and Advisory Board Member at ISCEA for a practical, been-there-done-that deep dive on AI-driven supply chain transformation. From what separates organizations that actually scale AI from those stuck in endless experimentation, to the guardrails every enterprise needs before letting AI execute autonomously, Prabhat brings a hard-won perspective from working with Fortune 50 companies across fulfillment, warehouse operations, and enterprise decision support. Jorge adds his lens on what it means to be AI-competent, not just AI-aware, and why that distinction will define the next generation of supply chain professionals.

The conversation spans the full arc: change management, data integrity, bonded autonomy, and what it looks like when AI shifts a DC manager's role from operational execution to strategic governance. If you're navigating your own AI journey or building the next generation of supply chain talent, this one's for you.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(06:03) Prabhat's career: lessons in adoption

(08:29) AI competence: finding the sweet spot

(11:26) Building AI foundations for success

(18:21) Moving AI from pilots to scale

(23:50) Recommendations vs. execution in AI use

(28:04) Establishing guardrails for autonomous AI

(33:44) Computer vision example in supply chain

(47:06) Getting AI competent in six months

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Prabhat Pinnaka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prabhat-pinnaka-a9549421/
• Connect with Jorge Morales: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgeamorales/
• Learn more about Lowe’s Companies, Inc.: https://www.lowes.com/
• Learn more about ISCEA: https://www.iscea.org/
• Learn more about SCTechShow: https://www.sctechshow.com/
• 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://supplychainnow.com/media-kit/
• WEBINAR- How “Almost Right” Shipping Decisions Turn Into Six-Figure Losses: https://bit.ly/4mMov2T
• WEBINAR- There's No Finish Line in Leadership: Tips to Optimize Your Strategy & Execution: https://bit.ly/4tHOWJA
• WEBINAR- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq
• WEBINAR- Amazon Supply Chain 101: Enabling efficiency and growth for businesses everywhere–and everywhere they sell: https://bit.ly/49r8N7D

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/secret-sauce-tips-leaders-want-scale-ai-effectively-1583

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.

National Supply Chain Day started with a simple idea: the people who keep the world moving deserve to be seen.

In this special episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton and Mary Kate Love, President of Supply Chain Now, welcome Dr. Stephanie Thomas, Associate Professor at the University of Arkansas and Executive Director of WISE, for a conversation on the people powering the global supply chain.

The episode also features a keynote from Billy Ray Taylor, CEO and founder of LinkedXL, plus award recognition for Keith Moore of AutoScheduler.AI and Jim Opoka, recently retired from FEMA.

Together, they celebrate the people behind hospital shelves, disaster relief, warehouse execution, and the next generation entering the field, while exploring clarity, ownership, people skills, AI, and why every supply chain professional should tell their story.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:07) The mission behind National Supply Chain Day

(03:08) Celebrating the anniversary: A look back at the first NSCD

(06:11) Billy Ray Taylor keynote begins

(07:13) Deliberate clarity & the 17-inch standard

(10:59) Deliberate ownership

(18:23) Unpacking Billy Ray's key takeaways

(21:25) 2026 supply chain pressures & macro disruptions

(31:03) Dr. Stephanie Thomas joins WISE & inspiring the next generation

(32:39) Celebrating unsung heroes in supply chain

(41:40) Supply chain trends, AI, resilience & people-first thinking

(55:00) Leadership challenge

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Stephanie Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark/
• Connect with Mary Kate Love: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mklove/
• Connect with Billy Ray Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billyrtaylor/
• Connect with Keith Moore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithdmoore13/
• Learn more about LinkedXL: https://linkedxl.com/
• Learn more about AutoScheduler.AI: https://autoscheduler.ai/
• Learn more about the University of Arkansas: https://www.uark.edu/
• Learn more about WISE: https://walton.uark.edu/departments/supplychain/wise.php
• 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://supplychainnow.com/media-kit/
• WEBINAR- How “Almost Right” Shipping Decisions Turn Into Six-Figure Losses: https://bit.ly/4mMov2T
• WEBINAR- There's No Finish Line in Leadership: Tips to Optimize Your Strategy & Execution: https://bit.ly/4tHOWJA
• WEBINAR- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/celebrating-national-supply-chain-day-1582

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 special marketing edition of The Buzz, we explore the hidden supply chain behind one of the world’s biggest fashion and branding events—the Met Gala. From global sourcing and luxury logistics to influencer marketing and AI-driven fashion trends, this episode uncovers how artistry, supply chain precision, and marketing strategy all intersect—welcome to The Buzz, powered by OptiLogic!

Hosts Mary Kate Love and Amanda Luton break down the massive global supply chain operation behind the Met Gala—from sourcing luxury fabrics and handcrafted beadwork across multiple countries to managing white-glove transportation, security, and just-in-time execution for one of fashion’s biggest nights. The conversation explores how viral fashion moments now directly influence manufacturing schedules, demand forecasting, and fast-fashion response times, while also examining the growing role of AI, wearable tech, and influencer marketing in shaping consumer trends. This episode offers a fascinating look at how logistics, branding, creativity, and technology come together behind the scenes of a global cultural event.

Key Learnings & Takeaways

• The Met Gala relies on a highly complex global supply chain involving sourcing, logistics, security, and precision execution
• Luxury fashion production depends heavily on skilled artisans, handcrafted work, and long-lead-time procurement
• Viral social media moments now directly influence manufacturing schedules and consumer demand
• Fast fashion brands can respond to runway-inspired trends in a matter of days
• Fashion brands increasingly use influencer partnerships as a core marketing and brand strategy
• AI and wearable technology are beginning to reshape fashion design, production, and personalization
• Logistics and supply chain visibility are essential for managing high-value assets and event execution

The Met Gala may look like a night of glamour and celebrity fashion, but behind every iconic look is a deeply connected global supply chain. This episode highlights how modern supply chains power cultural moments, influence consumer behavior, and drive rapid innovation across industries. Whether you work in logistics, marketing, procurement, or retail, there are valuable lessons here about speed, precision, creativity, and adaptability.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Optilogic: https://optilogic.com/
• Optilogic Webinar: Ahead of Disruption: https://bit.ly/3RiFMol
• US Bank Q1 2026 Freight Payment Index Livestream: https://streamyard.com/watch/f6zU8BU2PCpY
• EasyPost webinar: https://bit.ly/48Z2Lv1
• The Bridge webinar with Billy Ray Taylor and Regine Villain: https://bit.ly/49a4uNS
• With That Said: https://bit.ly/4tSH5ci
• Upcoming Live Programming: https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/
• Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/
• Mary Kate on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mklove/
• Amanda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-luton/
• Katherine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-h/
• 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- How “Almost Right” Shipping Decisions Turn Into Six-Figure Losses: https://bit.ly/4mMov2T
• WEBINAR- There's No Finish Line in Leadership: Tips to Optimize Your Strategy & Execution: https://bit.ly/4tHOWJA
• WEBINAR- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq

This episode is hosted by Mary Kate Love and Amanda Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-supply-chain-powering-met-gala-1581

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.

Most warehouse automation projects don't fail because of the technology. They fail because of the approach.

In this episode, Scott W. Luton sits down with Don DeLash, Sales Director, Logistics Automation at SICK Sensor Intelligence, for a candid conversation on what it actually takes to modernize warehouse operations, and how to avoid the pitfalls that derail even well-funded initiatives. With more than 25 years spanning project management, finance, sales leadership, and logistics automation, Don brings a refreshingly grounded perspective. Ditch the glossy pitch, focus on real operational impact, and lead with curiosity and clear communication.

Together, they paint a vivid picture of today's warehouse floor, quieter, cleaner, and increasingly populated by AGVs, mobile robots, unmanned forklifts, and sensor-driven systems. Don walks through the full automation journey, from planning and piloting to scaling and long-term support, covering how to choose the right partners, define success upfront, build flexibility into implementation plans, and invest in aftercare. The conversation also digs into how AI and vision technology are reshaping decisions around package inspection, palletizing, and damage detection, and how smart automation ultimately frees people to focus on higher-value work.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(05:48) Don’s career path in logistics automation

(07:24) What SICK Sensor Intelligence brings to modern warehouses

(09:09) Earning trust as a technology partner

(11:01) Don’s guideposts for supply chain success

(13:15) What today’s warehouses look and sound like

(15:03) Why smart automation matters more than ever

(16:57) The role of experimentation in supply chain technology

(21:02) Planning for successful automation projects

(23:39) Choosing the right partners and defining success

(26:08) Scaling automation from pilot to enterprise-wide impact

(35:38) How vision technology and AI are improving warehouse decisions

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Don DeLash: [email protected]
• Connect with Don DeLash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dondelash/
• Learn more about SICK Sensor Intelligance: https://www.sick.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://supplychainnow.com/media-kit/
• WEBINAR- Ahead of Disruption: How AI-First Design Builds Supply Chain Resilience — and Transforms the Teams Behind It: https://bit.ly/4ldRn3b
• WEBINAR- How “Almost Right” Shipping Decisions Turn Into Six-Figure Losses: https://bit.ly/4mMov2T
• WEBINAR- There's No Finish Line in Leadership: Tips to Optimize Your Strategy & Execution: https://bit.ly/4tHOWJA
• WEBINAR- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq

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/smart-logistics-101-modern-warehouse-operations-1580

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.

AI is everywhere in supply chain, but more AI does not always mean better decisions.

In this episode, Scott W. Luton and special co-host Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, sit down with Lindsay Azim, Senior Director Analyst for Supply Chain at Gartner, for a forward-looking conversation on how chief supply chain officers can lead into the autonomous business era.

Lindsay shares why AI should not be treated as a standalone strategy, but as an enabler tied to a broader vision for the future. She also previews her Gartner Supply Chain Symposium keynote, centered on three priorities for leaders preparing for what comes next: autonomous-ready operations, autonomous-ready intelligence, and an autonomous-ready workforce.

They also discuss the risks of AI sprawl, the importance of stronger human-machine partnerships, and why supply chain leaders need to rethink decision-making through a “decision stack” that combines data, knowledge assets, and human judgment. From documenting tribal knowledge to preparing for “job chaos” rather than a job apocalypse, Lindsay and Mike offer practical insight for leaders navigating disruption, workforce change, and the rising role of versatile talent.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:11) Listener shoutouts and the AI workforce impact

(04:38) Meet Lindsay Azim, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner

(11:22) Lindsay’s path from sustainability to Gartner

(14:55) Storytelling for supply chain leaders

(18:41) Today’s top supply chain priorities

(22:41) Why vision must come before AI

(23:25) How leaders can avoid AI sprawl

(25:34) Leading supply chains into the autonomous era

(28:20) Building autonomous-ready operations

(31:16) Introducing autonomous-ready intelligence

(36:09) The idea behind the autonomous-ready workforce

(39:52) Why leaders should attend Gartner Symposium

(41:50) Pop culture lessons for supply chain leaders

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Lindsay Azim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-azim/
• Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
• Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/
• Learn more about the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo™ conference: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/supply-chain-us
• 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://supplychainnow.com/media-kit/
• WEBINAR- Ahead of Disruption: How AI-First Design Builds Supply Chain Resilience — and Transforms the Teams Behind It: https://bit.ly/4ldRn3b
• WEBINAR- How “Almost Right” Shipping Decisions Turn Into Six-Figure Losses: https://bit.ly/4mMov2T
• WEBINAR- There's No Finish Line in Leadership: Tips to Optimize Your Strategy & Execution: https://bit.ly/4tHOWJA
• WEBINAR- Delivering Flawless Field Service with Predictive Insights and AI: https://bit.ly/4sXVZfV
• WEBINAR- From AI Pilots to Performance: How Supply Chain Leaders Are Scaling Agentic AI: https://bit.ly/49hCqIq

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/three-big-thoughts-leading-supply-chain-autonomous-era-1579

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.