2 Babes Talk Supply Chain

This is the second show in our “Give your business a fresh start” series, in partnership with BluJay. In Episode 1, “Visibility, Unchained” we talked to Bryant, Senior Global Product Manager at BluJay Solutions, about data and visibility: why it’s so important, the impact of last year and how BluJay is innovating in this area, to create unparalleled levels of visibility for their customers. Today in Episode 2, “Simulation: The Future is Here,” we’re joined by Pam Reeber, Director of Solution Consulting at BluJay Solutions, to talk all about simulation, and using AI to model scenarios within the supply chain so we can predict the future and stay ahead of the game. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.04] Pam’s role at BluJay, and the one thing that might surprise people about AI. [02.44] Exactly what simulation is and how it works. [04.10] How, and why, BluJay became the first TMS Provider to build a modelling solution on the LLamasoft Cloud Platform. “We wanted to provide a hands-on, self-service tool that was ea

In today’s episode I’m excited to be joined by Dan Deigan, a man with nearly 25 years’ experience in the logistics industry under his belt. His passion, dedication and talent has led him to become the go-to for the transportation & logistics sectors’ coaching and sales training. He began selling transportation & logistics services in 1994, quickly climbing the ranks, winning sales competitions and growing businesses, before the impact of the recession in 2008 led him to confront his mentality and approach to business. In 2012, he established High-Performance Logistics Sales and has become a sales and coaching guru, in demand across the logistics industry. Today Dan will be talking to us about his business, his journey to success and why freight providers need to get on board with high level sales performance, fast!   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.43] Dan’s background, how he fell into supply chain and discovered a love for sales. [10.15] The highs and lows of the journey that led Dan to establish Hi

This is the first episode of our latest mini-series in partnership with BluJay Solutions. Over the next four episodes, our “Give your Business a Fresh Start” mini-series is going to take a closer look at BluJay, and how we can harness the power of new technology and machine learning to help us tackle key pain points within our businesses, from managing risk to improving our commitment to sustainability. Today in Episode 1, “Visibility, Unchained,” Bryant Smith, Senior Global Product Manager at BluJay Solutions, joins me to talk all about data and visibility. Why it’s so important, the impact of last year and how BluJay are innovating in this area to create unparalleled levels of visibility for their customers. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.46] Bryant’s background and his role at BluJay. [03.16] Who BluJay are and what they do. “What sets us apart is the BluJay way – our unique blend of philosophy, culture and services.” [05.38] Why data and visibility is so important, and why it’s been THE key talking poi

May Shu, today’s woman in supply chain, has nurtured an impressive career with our friends over at Fastenal. Originally from China, she’s now making waves in the logistics industry state-side. A dynamic and innovative supply chain professional with over 15 years of experience with Fastenal, May has a focus on people development, driving process efficiencies, and developing scalable solutions for tomorrow’s business needs in collaboration with multiple departments across the globe. Today May will be talking to us about her career so far, her approach to self-improvement and why she stays so loyal to Fastenal. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [03.30] May’s background and how she went from a degree in forestry to a career in logistics. “The more I got into it, the more excited I was with the opportunities – as soon as I accomplished one thing, there was another thing waiting!” [05.29] May’s role at Fastenal. [06.37] Why May moved from Shanghai to a small town in the USA – and how the stability of Fastenal’s culture

This is it – we’ve finally reached the end of 2020! I think it would be an understatement to say that it’s been a difficult year for many; but there have also been plenty of positives that we can take note of as well. So in this very special episode, I’m joined by Graham Robins from Border Buddy, who is a great friend of the show, to reflect on some of the things we’ve seen and done, to round out the year on a high and approach 2021 with a really positive mindset. We talk about COVID, collaboration, data, diversity and inclusion, and our plans for 2021. What a year! IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.56] An introduction to Graham, his background and his role at Border Buddy. [07.28] The impact of COVID and the valuable lessons we’ve learned this year, from the effect on mental health to the importance of the workers on the front line of supply chain. “Its been a transformative year for us. But we’ve learned that remote work is well suited for logistics!” [17.46] What we can practically take from these lessons

Founded in 2015, Convoy started a movement in efficient freight. Through their customer-centric approach, ethical commitment and unique technology, that creates smarter ways to connect shippers with carriers, they’re helping to solve problems, reduce waste and create a better future. Today, I’ll be talking to Lorin Seeks to find out a bit more about the Convoy network and how it’s utilising machine learning to solve the challenge of quality and compliance for small and midsize shippers. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [06.59] Lorin’s background, his career in the army and how he fell in love with logistics. [11.08] A closer look at Convoy, what it does and how it works. “Convoy is the nation’s most efficient digital freight network.” [12.34] The four core areas of risk and compliance that every shipper needs to consider. “Shippers are facing legal, financial, service and reputational risks every time they ship freight.” [19.27] Why these areas can present real challenges for small and mid-market shippers. [23

From gaining her degree in Organizational Psychology & Human Resources Management, Sangna has gone on to achieve huge success in her field. With an interest in technology and engineering, leadership roles at companies like Flextronics, Solectron and Meggitt have led her to her current role at Apex. She’s the Vice President of Human Resources for the Americas and has been doing some incredible work there for the past five years. Today Sangna will be talking to us about her long-standing HR career, her passion for people and the future of business. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [07.32] Sangna’s background and how she sidestepped from clinical psychology to HR. “Instead of one person at a time, I get to have an impact on a whole workforce.” [09.21] How Sangna began at Apex, and her role building their HR structure. [10.42] A closer look at Sangna’s responsibilities at Apex. [11.51] The impact of working in employee relations. “You are the facilitator – you are the hub of the company, between employees and m

Adebayo Adeleke is a supply chain enthusiast, businessman, social entrepreneur, retired U.S Army Officer and global thought leader all rolled into one. From Jordan to Japan, Africa to Afghanistan, he’s gathered his impressive knowledge and expertise from around the world. Retired from the U.S Army after an impressive 20 year career, Adebayo is now Managing Partner at Pantote Solutions LLC, President and CEO of Adebayo Adeleke LLC, a Principal Partner and Senior Supply Chain Consultant for Epot Consulting Limited and a Lecturer in Supply Chain Management at the Sam Houston State University. Today Adebayo will be talking to us about his career so far, his many inspirational achievements and his passion for driving immigration reform.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [06.47] Adebayo’s background and how he fell into supply chain by chance. [10.22] What led Adebayo to join the army, and why he fell in love with it. [11.38] Adebayo’s experience of war, and what he learned. “When I came back, I was transformed – the

This is the fourth and final show in our “Not Just Nuts and Bolts” series, in partnership with Fastenal. Last week in Episode 3, ‘Powered by Proximity,’ I was joined by Sam Nafe, Senior VP for National Account Sales Teams at Fastenal, and Jim DeMarco, Category Manager at PGT Innovations. We talked about their successful business partnership and the topic of glocality – what it means, why it’s so important and exactly how Fastenal deliver it across the world. Today in Episode 4, ‘Wait! Don’t Order,’ we’re talking to John Soderberg, EVP of IT at Fastenal, to talk about data and analytics: why is data so important, what kinds of data should we be focusing on and how can we use it to better our supply chains. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.04] John’s long-standing career at Fastenal, his current role and how Fastenal truly has a decentralized model. [03.00] Why data is so important. “It’s the basis for making better informed decisions.” [04.49] The types of data that supply chain professionals should be lookin

SIMOS provides more than just basic contingent labor: they deliver customized strategic labor solutions, with the end goal of reducing cost, increasing productivity and ensuring budget certainty - without compromising on quality standards. Their consultative partnership philosophy means that they design solutions from inside your facility, aligning with your KPI’s and offering a level of support that means you can step back and focus on the bigger picture, leaving your workforce in safe hands. Today, I’m joined by Harold Baro, Senior Vice President and General Manager, to talk all about SIMOS, the importance of collaboration and some of the challenges that businesses are currently facing with their workforces.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [07.39] How SIMOS was founded, and the story behind the name. “Our Founder wanted to provide more value to his clients and give more accountability.” [09.04] A closer look at exactly what SIMOS does. [10.53] The trusted partnerships that SIMOS enjoys with its customers.

This is the third show in our “Not Just Nuts and Bolts” series, in partnership with Fastenal. Last week in Episode 2, ‘Bring Us Your Problems,’ I spoke to Kris Van Dalen and we took a closer look at Fastenal’s onsite solutions, their response to the COVID-19 crisis and how we can prepare our businesses and supply chains for the future. Today in Episode 3, ‘Powered by Proximity,’ we’re talking with Sam Nafe, Senior VP for National Account Sales Teams at Fastenal, and Jim DeMarco, Category Manager at PGT Innovations. We’ll be talking about their successful partnership and the topic of glocality – what it means, why it’s so important and exactly how Fastenal deliver it across the world. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.09] Sam’s career at Fastenal, his current role and why the percentage of Fastenal’s customer-facing staff might surprise you. [02.22] PGT’s history, and Jim’s current role. [03.40] What is glocality, and what does it mean for Fastenal and its customers. “It allows the team to be creative… to achie

This is the second episode of Let’s Talk Supply Chain’s brand-new show, Blended. Blended is all about opening up conversations and giving the mic to all of the underrepresented voices in our industry – women, the LGBTQIA community, people of color, those with disabilities, whether they’re visible or hidden, and many more. Today in Episode 2, ‘Story of my Life,’ we’re going to be delving into our guest’s personal stories: the experiences that made them who they are today and the impact, both positive and negative, that those experiences have had on their lives and careers. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [03.23] Introductions to our Blended panelists. Madison Mobley – Senior Account Executive at Fairmarkit Lamont Robinson – President and CEO at Robinson LaRueCo Consulting, LLC Claudia Freed – CEO and President at EALgreen Martin Stark – IT Strategic Sourcing Lead at University of Sydney and Founder and CEO World Gay Boxing Championships Angie Reno – Director of Procurement, Government Services at Crowley [09.35]

As a maverick in the freight forwarding industry, Global Gateway Logistics believes in the creative persistence of deep analysis, learned experience and exceptional customer service. No matter the obstacle, operational challenge or budgetary constraint, Global Gateway Logistics will work tirelessly to support businesses supply chain and logistical needs. A committed and forward-thinking freight forwarder and NVOCC, Gateway Global Logistics provide insights and recommendations through data analysis and experience to create game-changing solutions for your business operations. Today, Caitlin Murphy, Founder & Managing Director of Operations, joins me to talk about Global Gateway Logistics, her approach to business and how exactly we go about creating transparent, strategic and successful supply chains. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [08.57] Caitlin’s background and how previous job dissatisfaction led to her founding Global Gateway Logistics. “I had confidence that I could make an impact – and that confidence

This is the second show in our “Not Just Nuts and Bolts” series, in partnership with Fastenal. Last week in Episode 1, ‘Innovation at Work,’ I spoke to Dan, President and CEO at Fastenal to find out exactly who Fastenal are, what they do and how they’ve evolved to become a global company, with a local focus, who are much more than just nuts and bolts. Today in Episode 2, ‘Bring Us Your Problems,’ we’re chatting with Kris Van Dalen and taking a closer look at Fastenal’s onsite solutions, their response to the COVID-19 crisis and how we can prepare our businesses and supply chains for the future. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.05] Kris’s career at Fastenal, and how the scope of their offering might just surprise you. [02.47] Fastenal’s comprehensive COVID-19 response – which became far more than simply delivering PPE. “The problem became much more than just the availability of an item.” [07.37] How the COVID crisis has taught us why it’s so important to have trusted supply chain partners in place before a cr

Loadshop is an online marketplace that connects carriers and shippers in the trucking space, eliminating the middleman, and so providing transparent, efficient and cost-effective solutions for both sides of the transaction. On a mission to create trucking with transparency, they might be a new kid on the block, but they’re utilizing the extensive industry experience of their cross-functional team to ensure they’re on the road to success. Today, Loadshop's Business Lead, Hunter Burke, will be chatting about the Loadshop marketplace, its benefits, and the future of trucking. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [05.56] The history behind the Loadshop brand and the core problems that led to its creation. “The idea started with seeing how much work it is to match loads and trucks in a spot market environment.” [11.02] What Loadshop does and how it works. [12.45] The impact of lack of transparency on the ease and efficiency of shipping. “The lack of transparency creates so many games that the industry are sick of playin

This is the first episode of our latest mini-series in partnership with Fastenal. Over the next four episodes, our “Not Just Nuts and Bolts” series is going to take a closer look at Fastenal, their global reach and the many different ways they serve the industry; their resilience and innovation in response to the COVID-19 crisis, and why they’re putting a focus on the importance of data in bettering supply chains. Today in Episode 1, Innovation at Work, I’m talking to Dan Florness, President and CEO at Fastenal. We’ll be finding out exactly who Fastenal is, what they do and how they’ve evolved to become a global company, with a local focus, who are much more than just nuts and bolts. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.26] Dan’s background, his role at Fastenal and how Fastenal is both a provider and its own customer. “Our secret ingredient is agility and problem-solving.”  [4.14] Fastenal’s history and growth. [06.18] What Fastenal stands for. “We go out and find great people – we’re about opportunity, freedo

From an early interest in engineering and logistics, going all the way back to education-level, Carolina has gone on to have an exciting and varied career in the industry. Now, as a logistics leader at top IT company Lenovo, she’s channelling all that incredible insight and experience into creating robust and effective logistics operations across Latin America. Today Carolina will be talking to us about her career so far, her many inspirational achievements and her long-standing love for logistics. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [07.52] Carolina’s background, her interest in international business and culture, and the variety of experiences that have led her to where she is today. “Those experiences were the ones that opened my eyes and allowed me to see the different roles you can perform within supply chain – that has been, and still is, the most exciting part.” [10.54] How Carolina has followed her heart during the course of her life and career, and her passion for giving back to the community. “My driver

This is the fourth and final show in our “What Does Intermodal Mean to You” series, in partnership with IANA. In last week’s episode, ‘The Technology,’ I was joined by Phil Shook, Vice President at C.H. Robinson, to talk about exactly what kinds of tech is used in the industry; the importance of connectivity and partnerships; why technology companies themselves are attracted to the intermodal industry – and the role IANA thinks tech will play in the industry moving forward. Today in Episode 4, ‘The Workforce,’ I’m joined by Mark McKendry, Vice President North American Intermodal at NFI, to shine a light on workforce development: the trends, the skills, the challenges – and what the future will look like for people in supply chain. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.14] Mark’s role at NFI and a key misconception about intermodal. “The perception of intermodal is that it’s a minor player compared to truck.” [02.19] e-commerce acceleration, a major supply chain trend affecting the workforce right now. [03.57] Fro

Jon Trask founded Digital SCM over 12 years ago and as the industry changed, he kept up. He went on to found ETA Guru and Identity Guru, which ultimately came together with Digital SCM to create Blockchain Guru, the powerhouse company we’re talking about today. Blockchain Guru is working at the forefront of emerging tech, blending tested technology with modern advancements to deliver tangible results. Today, Jon and I will be chatting about artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency and their benefits; how Blockchain Guru is making big changes in supply chain, and how emerging tech will help to shape the future of, not just logistics, but the world. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [07.51] What exactly is blockchain. [08.55] The benefits of sharing data. “People are generally reluctant to share their data, but [sharing data] gives you the ability to have a better, more robust process in improving your business.” [11.21] From reducing third party dependency to creating immutable data, the benefits of blockchain.

This is the third show in our “What Does Intermodal Mean to You” series, in partnership with IANA. In last week’s episode ‘The Equipment,’ we spoke to Frank Sonzala, CEO of CIE Manufacturing, about the types of equipment that are key within the intermodal industry, what role they play in keeping freight moving and why maintenance is so important. Today in Episode 3, ‘The Technology’ I’m joined by Phil Shook, Vice President at C.H. Robinson to talk about exactly what kinds of tech are used in the industry; the importance of connectivity and partnerships; why technology companies themselves are attracted to the intermodal industry – and the role IANA thinks tech will play in the industry moving forward. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.20] Phil’s 20+ year career at C.H. Robinson, how much he’s seen the industry change over that time, and his current role in staying abreast of technology so he can make the right decisions for their intermodal business line. “Collaboration is why the change has been so quick, and