The Logistics of Logistics Podcast
The Logistics of Logistics podcast, hosted by Joe Lynch, dives deep into the dynamic world of transportation, logistics, and supply chain. With over 600 in-depth conversations featuring influential industry leaders, innovators, and disruptors, the podcast explores everything from trucking and warehousing to cutting-edge technologies like AI. Gain exclusive access to real-world strategies and insights shaping the future of freight. This platform isn't just a discussion; it's a place for industry leaders to build authority and connect with decision-makers. Through engaging content and strategic distribution, key insights reach the right audience. Tune in on YouTube for full interviews, catch highlights in short clips, or listen on major podcast platforms to stay ahead in logistics, sales, and supply chain.
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REPOST: Penske's Supply Chain Insight: A Unified View with Mike Medeiros
11/12/2026
REPOST: Penske's Supply Chain Insight: A Unified View with Mike Medeiros
In “Penske’s Supply Chain Insight: A Unified View,” and , Executive Vice President of Operations for Penske Logistics, discuss how their new product, , turns complex data into a proactive tool for supply chain orchestration. About Mike Medeiros is executive Vice President of Operations for Penske Logistics, where he leads field operations and supports performance across the Penske Transportation Solutions network. He brings extensive leadership experience across transportation and logistics, including dedicated contract carriage and fleet operations. Medeiros has been recognized as a 2026 Pro to Know award recipient by Supply & Demand Chain Executive, honoring leaders driving operational excellence in the supply chain. About Penske Logistics is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. The company is a leading provider of innovative supply chain and logistics solutions. Penske offers solutions including dedicated transportation, distribution center management, 4PL and lead logistics, transportation management, , and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Key Takeaways: Penske's Supply Chain Insight: A Unified View In “Penske’s Supply Chain Insight: A Unified View,” Joe Lynch and Mike Medeiros, Executive Vice President of Operations for Penske Logistics, discuss how their new product, , turns complex data into a proactive tool for supply chain orchestration. Moving from Fragmented Systems to One View: The industry is shifting away from jumping between different TMS, WMS, and ERP systems. Supply Chain Insight provides a "single pane of glass" so you don’t have to toggle between multiple windows to make a decision. Proactive vs. Reactive Operations: With the Supply Chain Insight dashboard, both the logistics provider (Penske) and the shipper look at the same real-time info. This transparency lets teams get "upstream" to resolve problems before they happen, rather than just reacting to late shipments. Prioritizing Data Quality: The AI and analytics within are only as effective as the data feeding them. The focus is on measuring data quality and ensuring the KPIs you're tracking are accurate and actionable. AI as a Personal Analyst: A standout feature of Supply Chain Insight is the integrated AI assistant. You can query loads or identify performance trends using natural language, essentially giving you a dedicated supply chain analyst at your fingertips. Real-Time Asset Coordination: Having total visibility in Supply Chain Insight helps keep freight moving by spotting underutilized assets. For example, finding an empty driver nearby can solve an urgent capacity need and prevent a lost sale. Battle-Tested Internally: Before launching Supply Chain Insight to customers, Penske had their own associates use it first. This internal testing ensures that the platform is a stable and reliable system of record from day one. Managing Inventory and Carrying Costs: Visibility in extends beyond the road and into the warehouse. Understanding real-time inventory levels helps shippers minimize carrying costs and avoid the risks of seasonal stock mismatches. Learn More About Penske's Supply Chain Insight: A Unified View The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Autonomous Execution Without Losing Control: Governing AI Across the Supply Chain with Lotte Van Den Weingaert & Marten Veskimae
11/10/2026
Autonomous Execution Without Losing Control: Governing AI Across the Supply Chain with Lotte Van Den Weingaert & Marten Veskimae
In “ Autonomous Execution Without Losing Control: Governing AI Across the Supply Chain”, speaks with the Manager of Generative AI at Trimble, , and the Manager of Generative AI at Trimble, , about how Trimble Arc Agent automates complex logistics workflows and inbox management while keeping human operators in full control. About Lotte Vanden Wyngaert is Senior Manager of Applied AI at Trimble, and a hands-on leader who specializes in using technology to transform complex operational challenges into streamlined, scalable systems. Positioned at the intersection of logistics and tech, she leads teams in architecting and deploying production-ready generative AI agents that automate critical workflows. Driven by high ownership, Lotte thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments where she can turn chaos into tangible business results. When she isn't optimizing operations, she enjoys traveling the world. About Märten Veskimäe is Manager of Generative AI at Trimble. Märten Veskimae has led the technical staff behind Trimble Arc Agent, the agentic AI platform built for enterprise needs. His team builds AI agents that take on real work for both Trimble customers and internal teams, and he spends most of his time on the question of what AI lets a business do that it couldn't do before. Before Arc Agent he built AI products in transportation software, built data-services product lines and led fraud modeling at a digital bank. He holds a master's in comparative politics, writes about product and strategy and lives in Northern Italy. About Trimble provides fleets with solutions to create a fully integrated supply chain. With an intelligent ecosystem of products and services, Trimble Transportation enables customers to embrace the rapid technological evolution of the industry and connect all aspects of transportation and logistics — trucks, drivers, back office, freight and assets. Trimble Transportation delivers an open, scalable platform to help customers make more informed decisions and maximize performance, visibility and safety. Key Takeaways: Autonomous Execution Without Losing Control: Governing AI Across the Supply Chain In “ Autonomous Execution Without Losing Control: Governing AI Across the Supply Chain”, Joe Lynch speaks with the Manager of Generative AI at Trimble, Lotte Vanden Wyngaert, and the Manager of Generative AI at Trimble, Märten Veskimäe, about how Trimble Arc Agent automates complex logistics workflows and inbox management while keeping human operators in full control. The Power of a Single AI Agent Model: Rather than forcing logistics operations teams to manage dozens of disconnected AI tools, Trimble Arc Agent uses a unified, single-agent architecture. It acts as a single point of interaction that pulls safely across disparate enterprise systems and databases without forcing users to figure out which tool to use. Preserving the "Human in the Loop" and Governance: Autonomous execution requires strict enterprise safety boundaries. Trimble Arc Agent operates under user permissions and security rules—preventing unauthorized data access (such as payroll) and requiring human approval on high-stakes, consequential operational decisions. Turning Unstructured Data into Actionable Insight: A massive portion of operational delay comes from static, unstructured documents trapped in emails, PDFs, spreadsheets, and bills of lading. Arc Agent ingests, parses, and maps this messy data into standard TMS structures automatically, removing tedious copy-paste workflows. Eliminating the "Morning Exception Chase": Freight operations managers no longer need to spend their first hours logging into multiple portals or manually tracking late shipments. Arc Agent continuously monitors telematics, tracking portals, and inbox communications to generate a prioritized daily briefing that highlights only high-risk exceptions. Autonomous Inbox Management and Follow-Ups: Inboxes consume massive operational capacity through routine status checks, rate inquiries, and missing document requests. Arc Agent autonomously handles high-frequency partner outreach—fetching missing proof of deliveries, track-and-trace updates, and routine quotes while keeping drafted responses ready for human review. Standardized Workflows via Reusable "Skills": Arc Agent learns specific operational procedures through structured "recipes" or skills. By capturing how work should be executed once, Arc Agent performs routines with zero variation across teams, standardizing service-level agreements (SLAs) across terminals and business units. Elevating Logistics Roles from Clerical to Strategic: By shifting repetitive administrative burden, system data cleanup, and chasing missing information over to Arc Agent, transportation professionals are freed from reactive firefighting to focus on strategic negotiation, relationship building, and high-value decision-making. Learn More About Autonomous Execution Without Losing Control: Governing AI Across the Supply Chain The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The Thinking Advantage: Smarter Ways to Think Alongside AI with Ann Holm
11/06/2026
The Thinking Advantage: Smarter Ways to Think Alongside AI with Ann Holm
In “ The Thinking Advantage: Smarter Ways to Think Alongside AI”, speaks with ICF Certified Coach, , about how professionals can strategically leverage AI as a cognitive co-thinker while keeping human critical thinking, self-awareness, and focus sharp. About Ann Holm has been coaching since 2008, with an emphasis on executive and career development, following a successful 25-year career as a speech pathologist specializing in brain injury rehabilitation. Her life’s work has focused on helping others stretch beyond what they thought was possible and enjoying the process along the way. She is the author of Educator Bandwidth: How to Reclaim Your Energy Passion and Time. She serves multiple emerging leaders in the logistics industry. About Annholm.net /Uncover Your Potential Professional Certified Coach private practice who will help you develop your strengths while accounting for blind spots. Offering both group and individual coaching, the company also features relevant content via blogs and podcasts. Annholm.net has served clients since 2008. Key Takeaways: The Thinking Advantage: Smarter Ways to Think Alongside AI In “ The Thinking Advantage: Smarter Ways to Think Alongside AI”, Joe Lynch speaks with ICF Certified Coach, Ann Holm, about how professionals can strategically leverage AI as a cognitive co-thinker while keeping human critical thinking, self-awareness, and focus sharp. Integrating Cognitive Science into Executive Coaching: Ann Holm combines over two decades of executive coaching experience at Annholm.net with her clinical background as a speech-language pathologist specializing in stroke, brain injury, and cognitive communication to help leaders maximize strengths while identifying and managing cognitive blind spots. Positioning AI as a Co-Thinker, Not a Substitute: AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini function best as interactive co-pilots and brainstorming partners rather than complete replacements for human critical thinking, contextual understanding, and strategic decision-making. Preserving Cognitive Retrieval and Mental Activation: Passive reliance on AI outputs risks diminishing "retrieval responsibility" and lowering active brain activation, whereas maintaining active engagement and critical inquiry during AI interactions keeps key cognitive retrieval pathways sharp. Reclaiming Cognitive Bandwidth: Managing information overload, constant digital interruptions, and rapid context-switching is essential to protecting executive functioning skills and preserving high-level mental energy. Leveraging Behavioral Frameworks for Self-Awareness: Applying validated assessment tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) enables professionals to demystify behavioral patterns, enhance self-awareness, and align leadership styles effectively within team environments. Safeguarding "Blue Sky" Strategic Thinking: Sustained performance requires setting aside dedicated, uninterrupted space for deep reflection and creative "blue sky" strategic planning, preventing daily transactional noise and automated tasks from dominating schedule capacity. Maintaining Human Scrutiny and Defensibility: Because AI-generated content requires validation and refinement, professionals must maintain rigorous editorial oversight and critical evaluation to ensure accuracy, contextual integrity, and defensibility in executive work. Learn More About The Thinking Advantage: Smarter Ways to Think Alongside AI The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Rethinking the Shipper-Carrier Dynamic: How Polyglass Built an Automated Execution Engine with Eddie Ramirez
11/03/2026
Rethinking the Shipper-Carrier Dynamic: How Polyglass Built an Automated Execution Engine with Eddie Ramirez
In “Rethinking the Shipper-Carrier Dynamic: How Polyglass Built an Automated Execution Engine”, speaks with the Transportation Manager at Polyglass U.S.A., , about how Polyglass modernized its supply chain by leveraging Trimble's automated slot scheduling, paperless tendering, real-time freight visibility, and AI-driven spot market sourcing. About Eddie Ramirez is the Transportation Manager at Polyglass U.S.A., Inc., where he leads transportation and logistics operations supporting multiple manufacturing facilities across the United States. With nearly a decade of experience at Polyglass, Eddie has progressed through several roles within Transportation, developing expertise in freight operations, carrier management, logistics technology, and supply chain optimization. He holds a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership, a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology Management, and is a Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) professional through ASCM. Eddie is passionate about leveraging technology, automation, and data-driven strategies to improve transportation efficiency, strengthen shipper-carrier partnerships, and enhance the customer experience. His leadership philosophy emphasizes continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability, guided by the principles of being a Shipper of Choice and maintaining a Standard of Excellence. About Polyglass U.S.A., Inc., a member of the MAPEI Group, is a leading manufacturer of innovative roofing, waterproofing, and building envelope solutions. Headquartered in Deerfield Beach, Florida, Polyglass has served the North American market since 1992, delivering high-performance products and technologies designed to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry. Known for its patented ADESO® self-adhered technology, Polyglass continues to advance product innovation, manufacturing excellence, and customer service through its nationwide operations. Beyond manufacturing, Polyglass is committed to continuously improving its supply chain and transportation processes through strategic carrier partnerships, technology integration, automation, and data-driven decision-making. These initiatives support the company's focus on operational efficiency, reliable deliveries, and an exceptional customer experience. As part of the global MAPEI Group, Polyglass benefits from extensive industry expertise, research capabilities, and a shared commitment to quality and innovation. Key Takeaways: Rethinking the Shipper-Carrier Dynamic: How Polyglass Built an Automated Execution Engine In “Rethinking the Shipper-Carrier Dynamic: How Polyglass Built an Automated Execution Engine”, Joe Lynch speaks with the Transportation Manager at Polyglass U.S.A., Eddie Ramirez, about how Polyglass modernized its supply chain by leveraging Trimble's automated slot scheduling, paperless tendering, real-time freight visibility, and AI-driven spot market sourcing. Polyglass U.S.A., Inc. (a member of the MAPEI Group) is a leading North American manufacturer of innovative roofing, waterproofing, and building envelope solutions headquartered in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Operating out of their Winter Haven facility, the company manages around 300 full truckload shipments per week—primarily using flatbed trailers—making continuous supply chain efficiency and reliable customer delivery critical priorities. Eliminating Yard Chaos with Smart Slot Scheduling: Moving away from a traditional "first-come, first-served" model, Polyglass implemented Trimble’s Dock & Yard Management tools to streamline truck flows. Dynamically matching truck arrivals to actual dock loading capacity helps reduce yard congestion, lower accident risks, and cut driver wait times by up to 40%. Process Optimization Before Automation: Automating supply chain tasks requires a solid underlying process. Partnering with Trimble helped Polyglass evaluate and refine their operational workflows prior to digitizing them, ensuring software enabled actual business rules rather than automating flawed manual practices. Hands-Free Tendering and Paperless Operations: By implementing Trimble Transport Execution, Polyglass replaced manual order processing and physical stacks of paperwork with automated order entry and TMS transmission. Rule-based, hands-free load matching cuts administrative processing costs by up to 30% while freeing up back-office bandwidth. Proactive Visibility to Eliminate "Where's My Truck?" Noise: Transitioning to Trimble Road Visibility gives Polyglass real-time predictive tracking (combining GPS, traffic, and weather data). Instead of waiting for angry calls or making reactive check calls, Polyglass can proactively notify customers about unexpected delays before issues escalate, cutting check calls by up to 80%. Taming Spot Market Volatility with AI Sourcing: To replace manual rate negotiations and stop lowballing spot market carriers, Polyglass piloted Trimble Autonomous Procurement. By utilizing behavioral science and historical carrier pricing data, the tool matches over 90% of spot loads in under two hours at realistic market rates without manual back-and-forth. Prioritizing Long-Term Partner Value over Lowest-Cost Sourcing: Chasing the lowest rate often leads to hidden costs, service breakdowns, and severe operational delays. Polyglass emphasizes strong, transparent relationships with tech providers like Trimble and core carrier partners to drive accountability, build resilience, and establish a world-class transportation network. Learn More About Rethinking the Shipper-Carrier Dynamic: How Polyglass Built an Automated Execution Engine The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. 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4 Massive Fleet Problems Wex Solves for Trucking Companies with Noel Glasgow
10/29/2026
4 Massive Fleet Problems Wex Solves for Trucking Companies with Noel Glasgow
In “ 4 Massive Fleet Problems Wex Solves for Trucking Companies”, speaks with the Vice President of Sales for WEX’s OTR business, , about how WEX helps fleets control fuel costs, stop fraud, optimize spending, and manage cash flow. About Noel Glasgow is the Vice President of Sales for WEX’s OTR business. He began his career in journalism as a sports reporter for various TV stations before moving into leadership positions in the business world. He has been with WEX for over 13 years, working in the mobility sector, and now oversees WEX OTR including the EFS and Fleet One EDGE Programs. He leads the sales division, including inside and outside sales and client success, supporting the full sales cycle from lead to close, along with client retention and educating customers on the value of the business. He currently lives in Nashville with his wife and daughter. He is a diehard Vols fan and a music lover. About WEX (NYSE: WEX) is the global commerce platform that simplifies the business of running a business. WEX has created a powerful ecosystem that offers seamlessly embedded, personalized solutions for its customers around the world. Through its rich data and specialized expertise in simplifying benefits, reimagining mobility, and paying and getting paid, WEX aims to make it easy for companies to overcome complexity and reach their full potential. For more information, please visit . Key Takeaways: 4 Massive Fleet Problems Wex Solves for Trucking Companies In “ 4 Massive Fleet Problems Wex Solves for Trucking Companies”, Joe Lynch speaks with the Vice President of Sales for WEX’s OTR business, Noel Glasgow, about how WEX helps fleets control fuel costs, stop fraud, optimize spending, and manage cash flow. WEX Powers Fleets of All Sizes across Over-the-Road Transportation: As a global commerce platform, WEX serves the full spectrum of trucking, from single owner-operators to massive fleets with 60,000+ Class 8 vehicles. They offer specialized tools like the Fleet One Edge card and 10-4 mobile app to give smaller carriers competitive buying power. Controlling the "Fuel Money Pit" via Dynamic Rules: Because fuel represents one of the single largest expenses for a fleet—averaging over $700 per fill-up—WEX empowers fleet managers to eliminate leaky margins. Fleet managers can set granular, dynamic card controls by gallon limits, fuel grade, time of day, and designated pump locations, while unlocking average savings of 26–27 cents per gallon. Cutting-Edge Interception of Fuel Theft & Skimming: To combat pump skimmers and unauthorized swipes, WEX utilizes GPS-geofenced "SecureFuel" technology developed alongside partners like Trimble. By cross-referencing card swipes with the vehicle's real-time ELD position, WEX blocks transactions instantly if the truck and pump locations do not match. Next-Gen Security Features (Cardless Fueling & Freeze/Thaw): WEX continues to innovate its fraud prevention stack beyond dynamic prompting. New solutions include single-use "flow codes" for cardless fueling and a mobile "freeze and thaw" toggle that automatically re-locks fuel cards immediately after a authorized transaction is complete. Eliminating Blind Spots with Real-Time TMS & ELD Integration: Direct integration into ELDs and Transportation Management Systems (TMS) delivers instant visibility into driver spending behavior. Automatically matching drivers, routes, and cards in real time allows fleets to monitor compliance, track negotiated discounts, and optimize fuel stop choices. Solving the Freight Cash Crunch via WEX Capital: Carriers often face delayed invoice payments from shippers and brokers (taking anywhere from 15 to 180 days) while incurring immediate daily expenses like fuel and payroll. WEX Capital provides instant freight factoring, converting outstanding bills into liquid working capital to eliminate cash flow bottlenecks. Expanded Ecosystem through the Verified Vendors Program: Beyond core payment and fuel controls, WEX offers a Verified Vendors marketplace to simplify fleet operations. Partners like Engine (discounted lodging), BestPass (toll management), and TFG (vehicle financing) allow fleets to reduce overhead costs across their entire operational footprint. Learn More About 4 Massive Fleet Problems Wex Solves for Trucking Companies The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The Zero Distraction Cockpit: Making In-Cab Navigation Safer and Smarter with Dave Morris
10/27/2026
The Zero Distraction Cockpit: Making In-Cab Navigation Safer and Smarter with Dave Morris
In “ The Zero Distraction Cockpit: Making In-Cab Navigation Safer and Smarter”, speaks with Product Manager at Trimble, , about how AI voice control, truck-specific navigation, and precision gate-to-dock routing eliminate in-cab distractions and keep drivers safe. About Dave Morris is a Product Manager at Trimble with 10+ years focused on mobile experiences, including CoPilot. His background spans partner management, sales engineering, and product management, bringing a wealth of experience to mobile product development. About Trimble provides fleets with solutions to create a fully integrated supply chain. With an intelligent ecosystem of products and services, Trimble Transportation enables customers to embrace the rapid technological evolution of the industry and connect all aspects of transportation and logistics — trucks, drivers, back office, freight and assets. Trimble Transportation delivers an open, scalable platform to help customers make more informed decisions and maximize performance, visibility and safety. Key Takeaways: The Zero Distraction Cockpit: Making In-Cab Navigation Safer and Smarter In “ The Zero Distraction Cockpit: Making In-Cab Navigation Safer and Smarter”, Joe Lynch speaks with Product Manager at Trimble, Dave Morris, about how AI voice control, truck-specific navigation, and precision gate-to-dock routing eliminate in-cab distractions and keep drivers safe. Elimination of Catastrophic Routing Errors: Unlike consumer GPS applications that treat heavy vehicles like passenger cars, Trimble CoPilot uses PC*MILER commercial navigation data tailored to specific vehicle dimensions, axle weight limits, and hazardous material restrictions—preventing bridge strikes, illegal detours, and reducing out-of-route mileage by up to 10%. Hands-Free In-Cab Voice Control: The CoPilot Driver Assistant utilizes AI-powered natural language voice commands, allowing drivers to search for amenities, adjust routes, or check live weather and traffic without taking their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road. Enhanced Driving Safety with Motion Lock: To eliminate distracted driving and keep drivers focused, physical touch interactions on the dashboard or tablet are locked while the vehicle is in motion. Precision Gate-to-Dock Guidance: By using precise, geofenced commercial location data for over 6 million places, CoPilot guides drivers past generic street addresses directly through truck-specific entry gates and straight to exact dock doors, eliminating the delays that account for up to 80% of last-mile friction. Single Source of Truth Between Cab and Back Office: Because CoPilot shares the same routing engine and data as back-office dispatch systems (PC*MILER), the exact miles planned by dispatch match the miles driven in the cab, resolving discrepancies in billing, fuel tax calculations, and driver pay. Predictive Parking and Hours-of-Service Management: CoPilot leverages machine learning and real-time integrations to predict parking availability and alert drivers to safe rest options before their hours-of-service limits expire—or with a single tap of an emergency coffee cup button. Hyperlocal Weather and Hazard Mitigation: The platform provides proactive alerts for upcoming traffic slowdowns, road closures, and severe weather conditions like high winds and low visibility, giving drivers and dispatchers the intelligence needed to re-plan routes safely. Learn More About The Zero Distraction Cockpit: Making In-Cab Navigation Safer and Smarter The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The High Cost of Wrong Turns: How Location Data Protects Freight Margins with Rishi Mehra
10/22/2026
The High Cost of Wrong Turns: How Location Data Protects Freight Margins with Rishi Mehra
In “ The High Cost of Wrong Turns: How Location Data Protects Freight Margins”, speaks with the VP, Product & Engineering of Trimble, , about how precision location data, commercial routing, and connected AI ecosystems protect fleet profitability and driver safety. About Rishi Mehra is the VP, Product & Engineering of Trimble. As VP, product and engineering, Rishi Mehra is primarily responsible for overseeing the company’s technology, products and engineering in North America. Mehra has been with Trimble since 2014, and previously served as a senior product manager and director of web products for ALK Technologies (now a part of the Trimble family). In that role, he led the product management and go-to-market activity for all web solutions globally and helped establish the commercial transportation-focused web digital platform within the organization. About Trimble provides fleets with solutions to create a fully integrated supply chain. With an intelligent ecosystem of products and services, Trimble Transportation enables customers to embrace the rapid technological evolution of the industry and connect all aspects of transportation and logistics — trucks, drivers, back office, freight and assets. Trimble Transportation delivers an open, scalable platform to help customers make more informed decisions and maximize performance, visibility and safety. Key Takeaways: The High Cost of Wrong Turns: How Location Data Protects Freight Margins In “ The High Cost of Wrong Turns: How Location Data Protects Freight Margins”, Joe Lynch speaks with the VP, Product & Engineering of Trimble, Rishi Mehra, about how precision location data, commercial routing, and connected AI ecosystems protect fleet profitability and driver safety. Consumer GPS vs. Commercial Reality Creates Costly Risks: Standard consumer navigation apps lack commercial vehicle intelligence—such as bridge clearances, weight restrictions, hazmat regulations, and turn-radius constraints. Using non-commercial apps leads to expensive bridge strikes, fines, off-route detours, and severe brand liability for shippers, carriers, and brokers. PC*Miler Serves as the Industry’s Financial Currency: Celebrating its 40th annual release, PC*Miler acts as the foundational standard for contracting freight, billing, and driver settlements. It provides precise baseline mileage that ensures carriers, shippers, and brokers operate on agreed-upon data so that no party suffers financial loss. Precision Routing Prevents Margin Leakage: In a tight freight economy with razor-thin margins, small deviations—such as a 10-mile detour or unapproved toll roads—rapidly destroy fleet profitability. Precise commercial mileage and batch processing allow fleets to balance the shortest versus cheapest routes, control driver fuel stops, and eliminate hidden costs. Solving the "Final 500 Feet" and Dock-Level Navigation: Standard GPS stops at the street address, but Trimble Places covers over 6 million locations with precise dock-level navigation. Directing drivers to exact gate entrances and specialized docks (e.g., distinguishing refrigerated from general-purpose doors) eliminates facility delays, yard congestion, and accidents where they occur most. Transitioning from Static Maps to an AI Mapping Engine: Mapping is evolving from passive screen graphics into an active, intelligent engine. Integrating mapping data with conversational AI (such as CoPilot Driver Assistant) enables hands-free voice assistance that calculates rest breaks in real time without distracting the driver. Connected Ecosystems Drive Intelligent Automation: Purpose-built AI tools like Trimble's ArcAgent rely on a connected platform to eliminate administrative friction—such as pulling missing cost or delivery facts for incomplete loads. By restricting AI to verifiable network data with human oversight, systems operate with zero hallucination and strict safety guardrails. End-to-End Visibility and Vetted Parking Protect Drivers and Assets: Combining in-cab navigation with low-level trailer and pallet tracking provides back-office visibility and immediate alerts for route deviations to combat cargo theft. Furthermore, integrations with networks like Truck Parking Club and Engine give drivers safe, pre-vetted parking and lodging reservations with a single click. Learn More About The High Cost of Wrong Turns: How Location Data Protects Freight Margins The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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REPOST: The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight with Alex Fuller
10/20/2026
REPOST: The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight with Alex Fuller
In “The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight” and , Sr. Director of Revenue Management & Solutions at TRAFFIX, discuss the end of the freight recession and how rising rates, nearshoring, and market volatility are reshaping North American supply chains. About Alex Fuller , Sr. Director of Revenue Management & Solutions at TRAFFIX, focuses on understanding market trends and helping customers grow through customized supply chain solutions, technology, and AI integration. Passionate about supply chains and business growth, Alex earned his undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management from BYU before beginning his career with a CPG company managing imports from China and distribution across the United States. He later completed his MBA at the University of Virginia and went on to build extensive industry experience with UPS and UPS Supply Chain Solutions prior to joining TRAFFIX. Outside of work, Alex is a former professional triathlete and recently completed the Boston Marathon, reflecting the same discipline and endurance he brings to his professional career. About TRAFFIX is a leading North American 3PL that has been delivering customized supply chain solutions since 1979. With a customer-first approach, TRAFFIX partners with shippers to create flexible, scalable logistics strategies tailored to their unique business needs. The company offers a full suite of services, including truckload, flatbed, intermodal, drayage, expedited, LTL, managed transportation, and specialized government solutions. Backed by experienced logistics experts, TRAFFIX provides real-time visibility, optimized freight management, and agile solutions that help customers adapt to changing market demands. With U.S. headquarters in Chicago, IL, TRAFFIX employs more than 840 logistics professionals across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, helping businesses improve supply chain performance through customized supply chain optimization. Key Takeaways: The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight In “The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight” Joe Lynch and Alex Fuller, Sr. Director of Revenue Management & Solutions at TRAFFIX, discuss the end of the freight recession and how rising rates, nearshoring, and market volatility are reshaping North American supply chains. The 2026 Market Inflection: Following a brutal, multi-year freight recession post-COVID, the North American freight market has officially turned. As of mid-2026, contract rates have climbed 10% year-over-year, while spot rates have exploded by 40%. The Tariff & Pull-Ahead Wrench: Volatility in 2025 trade policies forced shippers to radically alter inventory strategies. Many pulled massive volumes ahead to beat tariffs, briefly spiking intermodal demand, before aggressively pivoting back to lean, just-in-time supply chains. Fuel Cracking the Budget Dam: Skyrocketing diesel rates in early 2026 acted as a major catalyst for rate hikes. Unlike previous years where carriers absorbed fuel spikes, tight capacity means these costs are hitting shippers directly, forcing corporate CFOs to expand logistics budgets. The Nearshoring Reality: Shorter, responsive supply chains are replacing long-distance sourcing. A massive wave of nearshoring to Mexico is underway, trading complex ocean freight for direct, highly automated cross-border trucking networks. Immediate Capacity Threats (Q2 2026): Roadside inspection events like DOT Week, combined with driver pullbacks over Memorial Day weekend, are actively squeezing summer capacity. Spot rates are projected to remain highly elevated for the next 9 to 12 months as a result of these seasonal disruptions. The Death of the Annual RFQ: High market volatility means annual freight bids are breaking down. Savvy shippers are shifting to agile 3-month and 6-month mini-bids, allowing 3PLs to price lanes accurately without adding heavy risk premiums to the rates. TRAFFIX Corporate Profile: Established in 1979, TRAFFIX is a premier North American 3PL operating across the US, Canada, and Mexico. As an asset-light partner, they leverage mid-market agility, cross-border expertise, and on-demand warehousing to protect shipper capacity in volatile cycles. Learn More About The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The Logisyn Analysis: What Will Reshape Freight Sectors Next with John Manners-Bell
10/15/2026
The Logisyn Analysis: What Will Reshape Freight Sectors Next with John Manners-Bell
In “ The Logisyn Analysis: What Will Reshape Freight Sectors Next”, speaks with Chief Executive of Ti, about how geopolitical fragmentation, artificial intelligence, nearshoring, and evolving security risks are reshaping the future of global freight sectors. About John Manners-Bell Prof is Chief Executive of Ti, Honorary Visiting Professor at the London Metropolitan University’s Guildhall Faculty of Business and Law and an adviser to the World Economic Forum. He has over 25 years’ experience working in and analysing the global logistics sector. John started his working life as an operations manager of a logistics company based in the UK. Prior to establishing Ti in 2002, he worked as an analyst in consultancies specialising in international trade, transport and logistics. He also spent a number of years as a manager of UPS, in a strategic marketing and communications role. John holds an MSc in Transport Planning and Management from University of Westminster and is an Associate of King’s College London where he studied Classics and Theology. He is a Fellow of the UK Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and former Chair of the Supply Chain and Logistics Global Advisory Council of the World Economic Forum. He has also advised the European Commission Directorate-General for Energy and Transport. He has written three books on the industry – ‘Global Logistics Strategies: Delivering the Goods’, ‘Supply Chain Risk: Understanding Emerging Threats to Global Supply Chains’ and ‘Logistics and Supply Chains in Emerging Markets’. His second book, ‘Supply Chain Risk’ won the Mention Speciale ACA-Bruel Prize for supply chain literature in 2014. About Ti is one of the world’s leading providers of expert research and analysis dedicated to the global logistics industry. Utilising the expertise of professionals with many years of experience in the mail, express and logistics industry, Transport Intelligence has developed a range of market leading web-based products, reports, profiles and services used by all the world’s leading logistics suppliers, consultancies and banks as well as many users of logistics services. Key Takeaways: The Logisyn Analysis: What Will Reshape Freight Sectors Next In “ The Logisyn Analysis: What Will Reshape Freight Sectors Next”, Joe Lynch speaks with Chief Executive of Ti, John Manners-Bell about how geopolitical fragmentation, artificial intelligence, nearshoring, and evolving security risks are reshaping the future of global freight sectors. Global Fragmentation & Geopolitical Shifts: Global supply chains are transitioning away from decades of free trade and globalization toward fragmenting markets, protectionism, and nationalist policies reminiscent of the mid-20th century. Reconfiguration of Asian & Ocean Freight Trade: Shifting trade policies and tariffs (such as US-China dynamics) are redirecting manufacturing and trade flows from China into ASEAN countries (e.g., Vietnam, Indonesia) and Mexico, leading to circumvention of tariffs and changing global import ports. Emergence of Cross-Border Opportunities & Risks: Reshoring and nearshoring to Mexico offer huge cross-border freight opportunities, but companies face infrastructure bottlenecks, severe cargo theft, and security challenges that often require transloading or armed escorts. Cybersecurity & Rising Cargo Theft: Freight fraud and cargo theft have evolved from opportunistic crimes to highly sophisticated cyber-enabled physical operations, driving shippers toward larger, better-funded logistics providers capable of making massive security investments. Economic Pressures Outweighing Sustainability: Economic headwinds, rising operational costs (like diesel), and geopolitical disruptions have forced companies to temporarily reprioritize bottom-line profitability and capital survival over environmental/sustainability initiatives. Impact of AI on Freight Brokerage Margins: Freight brokerages leveraging AI-driven automation operate on dramatically lower gross margins due to reduced headcount, driving rapid consolidation across the market and pushing smaller players to adapt. Labor Shortages, Warehousing Tech, and Future Talent: Addressing warehouse real estate costs and truck driver shortages requires increased automation and capital investment; however, heavy reliance on technology raises concerns about where the industry's future managers and leaders will develop as entry-level positions disappear. Learn More About The Logisyn Analysis: What Will Reshape Freight Sectors Next The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Unlocking Fleet Superpowers: The Power of the Trimble Ecosystem with Pat Gaskins and Matt Ruth
10/13/2026
Unlocking Fleet Superpowers: The Power of the Trimble Ecosystem with Pat Gaskins and Matt Ruth
In “ Unlocking Fleet Superpowers: The Power of the Trimble Ecosystem”, speaks with General Manager of Corcentric’s Fleet Services, and Vice President of Implementation at ISAAC, about how integrating in-cab telematics and automated billing with the Trimble ecosystem eliminates operational friction, optimizes fleet utilization, and boosts profitability. About Pat Gaskins is General Manager of Corcentric’s Fleet Services, overseeing both sales and operations for fleet offerings. Pat and his Fleet Solutions leadership team have successfully executed strategies to drive profitable growth tied to our Private Fleet & Carrier GPO, Capital Equipment, and Remarketing solutions. Pat joined Corcentric in 2010, bringing more than 30 years of experience as a financial services professional into the transportation industry. Previously, he held leadership positions with GE Capital, PHH Arvil, and TCF Equipment Finance, among others. About Matt Ruth is the Vice President of Implementation at ISAAC. Matt started his career working in transportation immediately upon graduating from college and has served in a wide variety of operational, technology, and leadership roles. He has gained a wealth of experience over the past 25+ years, largely invested at TMW systems and Trimble Transportation in senior management roles, leading teams responsible for managing the most complex transportation technology implementations. Matt has thus developed a unique ability to provide practical solutions to an otherwise complex and fragmented ecosystem of supply chain technology solution providers. About Trimble provides fleets with solutions to create a fully integrated supply chain. With an intelligent ecosystem of products and services, Trimble Transportation enables customers to embrace the rapid technological evolution of the industry and connect all aspects of transportation and logistics — trucks, drivers, back office, freight and assets. Trimble Transportation delivers an open, scalable platform to help customers make more informed decisions and maximize performance, visibility and safety. About Corcentric is a leading global provider of best-in-class procurement and finance solutions. We offer a unique combination of technology and payment solutions complemented by robust advisory and managed services. Corcentric reduces stress and increases savings for procurement and finance business leaders by forming a strategic partnership to diagnose pain points and deliver tailor-made solutions for their unique challenges. For more than two decades, we've been a trusted partner who delivers proven results. To learn more, please visit www.corcentric.com. About ISAAC Instruments offers in-cab technology that goes far beyond ELDs. We partner with trucking companies to simplify the life of drivers and keep the wheels turning. We provide a reliable, comprehensive open platform that allows fleets to integrate all of their business apps on a single device. Our real-time, in-cab coaching supports eco-driving for unparalleled fuel savings and safer highways, while artificial intelligence (AI) technology empowers informed decision-making. ISAAC is the market leader in Canada and has a rapidly growing presence among top-performing fleets across the United States. Key Takeaways: Unlocking Fleet Superpowers: The Power of the Trimble Ecosystem In “ Unlocking Fleet Superpowers: The Power of the Trimble Ecosystem”, Joe Lynch speaks with General Manager of Corcentric’s Fleet Services, Pat Gaskins and Vice President of Implementation at ISAAC, Matt Ruth about how integrating in-cab telematics and automated billing with the Trimble ecosystem eliminates operational friction, optimizes fleet utilization, and boosts profitability. Eliminating Back-Office Friction via Direct Billing Integration: Corcentric automates North American billing and receivables for major manufacturers like Daimler North America, auto-populating repair orders and invoices directly into Trimble’s TMT system to eliminate paper processing, keypunching errors, and administrative noise. Simplifying the Driver Experience with Predictive Workflows: ISAAC Instruments leverages load and route planning data from Trimble TMS to deliver a predictive, step-by-step workflow on in-cab tablets—automating turn-by-turn navigation, geofenced arrival calls, and document scanning so drivers focus on driving rather than manual data entry. Protecting Margins through Preventive and Predictive Maintenance: By capturing VMRS-coded shop data from Trimble TMT along with real-time telematics fault codes and eDVIR reports, fleets can identify recurring part failures, flag high-risk trucks before they break down on the road, and reduce costly multi-day downtime. Strategic Fleet Optimization and Lowering Total Cost of Ownership: Combining telematics utilization metrics with Corcentric’s financial, purchasing, and remarketing programs enables fleet leaders, procurement, and finance teams to make data-driven decisions on asset lifecycles, financing structures, and right-sizing fleet counts to avoid over-fleeting. Safety Coaching and Fuel Efficiency Interconnection: ISAAC's in-cab real-time coaching, AI, and camera technology monitor driving habits like over-acceleration and hard braking; improving driver efficiency directly translates into both safer operations and significant fuel savings—where a 0.5 MPG gain can save $7,000 per truck annually. Prioritizing Driver Retention and Safety Culture: In an environment facing driver shortages and heightened legal liability, creating a safe, tech-enabled, and streamlined cab environment boosts driver satisfaction and uptime while protecting carriers against catastrophic nuclear verdicts. The Power of Open Ecosystems and Interoperability: Because no single technology vendor can solve every supply chain challenge alone, seamless interoperability between open platforms (Trimble, ISAAC, and Corcentric) allows data to flow effortlessly between the cab, TMS, maintenance, and finance back-office—solving operational challenges at the seams. Learn More About Unlocking Fleet Superpowers: The Power of the Trimble Ecosystem The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The P44 and LSP44 Story with Jett McCandless
10/09/2026
The P44 and LSP44 Story with Jett McCandless
In “ The P44 and LSP44 Story”, speaks with Founder and CEO of project44 and LSP44, , about how project44 and LSP44 are split to serve shippers and service providers through AI agents, global connectivity, and API infrastructure. About Jett McCandless has spent 25 years inside the global supply chain, running it, not studying it. He started on the dock and in dispatch at YRC Freight, helped scale GlobalTranz past $2 billion in revenue, then founded Metafora, an Inc. 500 advisory firm. In 2014, he founded project44 on a simple bet: enterprises don’t need another dashboard, they need one operating truth of their entire network. That bet became the world’s largest real-time logistics data graph, trusted by 1,300+ leading brands moving over a billion shipments a year across 190+ countries. In 2026, Jett launched LSP44, AI-native agent and API infrastructure built for logistics service providers (brokers, carriers, 3PLs, forwarders). It automates exceptions, procurement, and documents, built on data spanning 280,000+ carriers. Jett leads both companies as Founder and CEO. About LSP44 is the AI-native agent and API Infrastructure business for logistics service providers. Built on the world's largest logistics data graph and carrier network, LSP44 gives 3PLs, freight forwarders, and brokers the AI agents, carrier infrastructure, and developer capabilities to embed intelligence directly into their own products and workflows. LSP44 is profitable and headquartered in Chicago. Learn more at . About Project44 is the Decision Intelligence Platform for the modern supply chain. Its context-based AI transforms fragmented logistics management into unified intelligence, bringing certainty to global supply chain operations. With intelligent transportation management, end-to-end visibility, yard management and last mile solutions, and a preferred carrier network of 282,000 carriers, project44 connects over 1.5 billion shipments annually for over 1,000 leading brands in manufacturing, automotive, retail, life sciences, food and beverage, CPG, and oil, chemical and gas. Learn more at project44.com. Key Takeaways: The P44 and LSP44 Story In “ The P44 and LSP44 Story”, Joe Lynch speaks with Founder and CEO of project44 and LSP44, Jett McCandless, about how project44 and LSP44 are split to serve shippers and service providers through AI agents, global connectivity, and API infrastructure. Strategic Brand & Operational Split: project44 separated its operations into two distinct entities—project44 remains focused on Global 2000 shippers, while LSP44 caters specifically to 3PLs, freight forwarders, and brokers to match their faster operational cadences and unique technology needs. AI-Native & API Infrastructure: LSP44 provides AI-native agent and API infrastructure built on a network covering 282,000 carriers across 190+ countries and territories, backed by over $1 billion in platform investment. Combining APIs with AI Agents: While APIs handle direct system-to-system connections, AI agents bridge operational gaps, correct missing data, and interface with carriers when APIs aren't available, driving high data accuracy and automation. Evolution Beyond Passive Visibility: Supply chain tracking has shifted from passive "little V" transportation tracking to "big V" inventory-in-motion, allowing companies to automate workflows and drive insights across all global modes. Consolidation for Global Scale & AI Talent: project44 established its ocean visibility capabilities and AI expertise by acquiring top market players Ocean Insights for data quality and ClearMetal for machine learning talent. Connectivity Quality as the Core Benchmark: Connectivity quality is the single most critical metric for supply chain maturity, serving as the necessary foundation to achieve broader logistics, financial, and operational goals. Market Consolidation & Margin Dynamics: AI and API integration will divide logistics service providers into winners and losers, allowing tech-forward LSPs to expand net margins, lower operational costs, and execute transactions faster. Learn More About The P44 and LSP44 Story The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Reinventing Fleet Efficiency: Cutting Friction in Maintenance, Routing, and Dispatch with Michael Kornhauser
10/06/2026
Reinventing Fleet Efficiency: Cutting Friction in Maintenance, Routing, and Dispatch with Michael Kornhauser
In “Reinventing Fleet Efficiency: Cutting Friction in Maintenance, Routing, and Dispatch”, speaks with sector vice president of Trimble, , about how integrated ecosystems, agentic AI, and smart routing technologies eliminate back-office friction and boost fleet performance across modern transportation networks. About Michael Kornhauser is sector vice president of Trimble, leading Transportation & Logistics in North America. With more than 20 years in various leadership roles, Michael has proven to be an astute and dynamic leader with deep industry understanding and passion for delivering superior customer value. Kornhauser, along with Dan Popkin, established the European operations and development of the successful CoPilot business and guided the ALK Technologies business integration into Trimble. Under his leadership, Trimble’s mapping solutions have become highly recognized and respected throughout the North American trucking and rail industries. He studied at Trinity College, where he received a research grant from NASA and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in computer engineering. About Trimble provides fleets with solutions to create a fully integrated supply chain. With an intelligent ecosystem of products and services, Trimble Transportation enables customers to embrace the rapid technological evolution of the industry and connect all aspects of transportation and logistics — trucks, drivers, back office, freight and assets. Trimble Transportation delivers an open, scalable platform to help customers make more informed decisions and maximize performance, visibility and safety. Key Takeaways: Reinventing Fleet Efficiency: Cutting Friction in Maintenance, Routing, and Dispatch In “Reinventing Fleet Efficiency: Cutting Friction in Maintenance, Routing, and Dispatch”, Joe Lynch speaks with sector vice president of Trimble, Michael Kornhauser, about how integrated ecosystems, agentic AI, and smart routing technologies eliminate back-office friction and boost fleet performance across modern transportation networks. Mission and Integrated Ecosystem Strategy: Trimble Transportation connects shippers, carriers, 3PLs, and back-office operations into a shared data ecosystem. By democratizing data and eliminating operational silos across point systems, Trimble helps fleets break friction, streamline workflows, and make informed decisions faster. Navigating Market Headwinds with High-ROI Tech: Fleets face intense pressures, including soaring fuel costs, non-fuel operating inflation, skyrocketing insurance premiums from nuclear verdicts, driver retention challenges, and cargo theft. While Trimble cannot control external fuel prices, its fuel optimization and routing tools generate immediate ROI by eliminating out-of-route miles, identifying the most cost-effective fueling stops, and ensuring proper toll reconciliation. In-Cab Safety and Driver Experience: Moving beyond traditional turn-by-turn navigation, tools like CoPilot Driver Assistant serve as voice-driven, in-cab safety co-pilots. By automatically alerting drivers to rollover risks, high-wind zones, low bridges, and traffic slowdowns—and integrating tools to easily book safe truck parking or discounted hotels—Trimble reduces driver stress and boosts retention. Evolving Routing and Dispatch: Commemorating version 40 of PC*Miler, Trimble continues to advance transportation mapping from basic distance calculation and rate reconciliation to intelligent route orchestration. Systems like Appian Fleet Assistant leverage AI to build complex, multi-stop route plans for private fleets in seconds rather than hours. TMS Modernization Without "Rip and Replace": Rather than forcing fleets to undergo risky, high-cost platform overhauls, Trimble updates its core TMS products (such as TMW.Suite, TruckMate, Innovative, and Fuel Dispatch) with browser-based interfaces, enterprise security, and AI integrations directly into existing product stacks. Agentic Back-Office Automation: Built with strict European privacy (GDPR) standards and full human-in-the-loop auditability, the new Trimble Arc Agent automates administrative tasks. Users can build custom, no-code operational skills in minutes to handle currency updates, contract reporting, or order entry. Yard Management and AI Fleet Maintenance: To reduce dock detention and facility delays, Trimble Dock & Yard unifies arrival tracking, appointment planning, and trailer visibility into a single record. Furthermore, TMT Fleet Maintenance AI Invoice Scanning batch-processes up to 100 vendor PDF invoices at once—saving thousands of administrative minutes—while automated systems like Road Call streamline emergency breakdown responses. Learn More About Reinventing Fleet Efficiency: Cutting Friction in Maintenance, Routing, and Dispatch The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The New Supply Chain Era with Nate Shutes
10/02/2026
The New Supply Chain Era with Nate Shutes
In “The New Supply Chain Era”, speaks with Founder of Ballast and Head of Strategy for LogistiVIEW, , about how the evolving landscape of AI, fractional leadership, and community support are shaping the future for supply chain entrepreneurs. About Nate Shutes has 25+ years of supply chain and logistics leadership spanning Fortune 500 companies to mid-market, founder-led businesses. He is the Founder of Ballast, the private peer group for supply chain entrepreneurs and Head of Strategy for LogistiVIEW, the leading Warehouse Orchestration Software platform for complex fulfillment operations. He is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and holds a BS in Transportation & Logistics from UW-Superior and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas. About Ballast is a private peer group and mastermind for supply chain and logistics entrepreneurs. Supply chain entrepreneurship is hard. But you don't have to do it alone. Join Ballast. About LogistiVIEW is a leading SaaS provider in the emerging Warehouse Orchestration Software space. Our WOS is the neutral decision layer between your WMS, ERP, robotics platforms and people that optimizes fulfillment operations. Key Takeaways: The New Supply Chain Era In “The New Supply Chain Era”, Joe Lynch speaks with Founder of Ballast and Head of Strategy for LogistiVIEW, Nate Shutes, about how the evolving landscape of AI, fractional leadership, and community support are shaping the future for supply chain entrepreneurs. Community and Support for Bootstrapped Founders (Ballast): Nate Shutes created Ballast, a private, paid mastermind group designed specifically for supply chain and logistics entrepreneurs. It gives bootstrapped founders a confidential, supportive space to discuss the hidden, high-stress realities of entrepreneurship—such as cash-flow limits and payroll risks—rather than just social media highlights. Refound Advisory and Fractional Executive Leadership: Through his fractional consulting firm, Refound Advisory, Shutes embeds directly within supply chain companies to offer hands-on operational leadership, strategic guidance, and culture alignment for scaling businesses that need executive help beyond community advice. Warehouse Orchestration with LogistiVIEW: As part of his fractional work, Shutes collaborates closely with founder Seth Patin at LogistiVIEW, a SaaS provider offering a Warehouse Orchestration System (WOS) that acts as a neutral decision layer unifying a company's WMS, ERP, robotics, and human workforce. The Role of Dual-Perspective Experience: Shutes emphasizes the value of having worked on both the 3PL/technology provider side (such as his 12 years at C.H. Robinson) and the shipper/brand side (at companies like Sleep Number and Bludot). Understanding both perspectives helps leaders avoid mistaking logistics as the sole driver when it is actually part of a larger, integrated supply chain. AI Strategy Over Automated Fixes: Throwing AI at an inefficient or broken process will only yield a "fancy broken process." To capture real value, supply chain leaders must address underlying process bottlenecks first, target low-level repetitive data tasks, and use AI as a strategic thought partner rather than a magical quick fix. Navigating the "Ethical Crumple Zone" & Security Risks: While AI speeds up workflows, human oversight remains critical—a boundary known as the "ethical crumple zone." Additionally, concerns around corporate data privacy, information leaks, and rogue AI agents are driving renewed interest in hybrid or on-premises tech setups as potential security moats. The Vulnerability of "Wrapper" Tech Companies: Startups built purely as UI wrappers around third-party AI platforms (without proprietary underlying code) face major existential risks. They lack control over fluctuating token/API subscription costs and can easily be rendered obsolete whenever base model providers launch identical built-in features. Learn More About The New Supply Chain Era The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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REPOST: OCM: The New Standard for Global Imports with Century's Jim McCullen
09/30/2026
REPOST: OCM: The New Standard for Global Imports with Century's Jim McCullen
In “OCM: The New Standard for Global Imports with Century's Jim McCullen”, and , Chief Technology Officer at Century Supply Chain Solutions, discuss how Origin Cargo Management provides the upstream visibility and tactical control necessary to optimize global supply chains before goods ever leave the factory. About Jim McCullen serves as Chief Technology Officer at Century Supply Chain Solutions, bringing over 30 years of deep expertise in logistics technology, digital transformation, and innovation. He leads global technology teams that pioneer Century's proprietary VIZIV platform, an end-to-end supply chain technology platform designed to manage every aspect of operations with precision, visibility, and scalability. By transforming complex global supply chains into efficient, data-driven ecosystems, VIZIV empowers smarter decisions, anticipates disruptions, and unlocks precision visibility and efficiency. Jim is shaping the future of logistics through decades of hands-on leadership and a visionary approach to human-AI partnership and scalable integrations. His forward-thinking strategy strengthens Century's technological leadership, propels enduring innovation, and positions the company for competitive advantage in an increasingly dynamic world. About Century Supply Chain Solutions is a tech-enabled global logistics provider with operations across more than 70 countries. Delivering end-to-end supply chain solutions across ocean, air, ground, and warehousing, Century is supported by a strong physical presence at key origin and destination markets. At the core of Century’s offering is Origin Cargo Management (OCM), a comprehensive, upstream solution that manages the flow of goods from purchase order issuance through supplier coordination and origin execution. By working directly with suppliers, carriers, and partners at origin, Century ensures shipments are compliant, optimized, and ready for efficient global transport before they leave the factory. Century’s proprietary platform, VIZIV® is powered by predictive AI and provides real-time visibility and optimization across supply chains. Combined with decades of expertise and boots-on-the-ground support, Century helps optimize performance, manage risk, and keep supply chains a step ahead in a dynamic global market. Key Takeaways: OCM: The New Standard for Global Imports In “OCM: The New Standard for Global Imports with Century's Jim McCullen”, Joe Lynch and Jim McCullen, Chief Technology Officer at Century Supply Chain Solutions, discuss how Origin Cargo Management provides the upstream visibility and tactical control necessary to optimize global supply chains before goods ever leave the factory. OCM as the Global Orchestrator: Jim defines Origin Cargo Management as the "middleman" between thousands of global vendors and transportation providers, ensuring supply chains are optimized before goods even leave the factory. Solving the "Goldilocks" Inventory Dilemma: OCM provides the precision needed to keep inventory lean—avoiding the high costs of overstocking while ensuring products are available exactly when the consumer demands them. The Power of "Automation Exhaust": Using the VIZIV® platform, Century captures data from AI routing engines. This "exhaust" allows for deep scenario planning and smarter decision-making based on trusted, cleansed data. Tactical Agility via "Vibe" Technology: Century’s Vibe system allows importers to instantly "flip a switch" to halt or divert cargo during disruptions (like tariff changes or port fires), replacing manual chaos with automated control. Direct Cost Savings & ROI: Century drives value by consolidating smaller shipments into full containers (CFS-CY) to eliminate "shipping air" and utilizes duty reduction programs to strip inland origin costs from taxable goods. Giving Logistics Teams "Superpowers": By providing a single source of truth, OCM shifts logistics teams from "messy execution" and manual tracking to a proactive, consultative role backed by certified performance facts. Upstream Action for Downstream Gain: The most impactful supply chain decisions happen at the origin. By managing the "black hole" of vendor bookings and factory compliance, Century ensures a smoother, more predictable journey to the final destination. Learn More About OCM: The New Standard for Global Imports The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Future-Proofing Warehouses Against Real Estate and Labor Crunches with Adam Brown
09/23/2026
Future-Proofing Warehouses Against Real Estate and Labor Crunches with Adam Brown
In “Future-Proofing Warehouses Against Real Estate and Labor Crunches”, speaks with Senior Director, Market Intelligence at Dematic, , about how automation, software, and high-density storage solve the industry's toughest labor shortages and space constraints. About Adam Brown is a seasoned supply chain and automation leader with more than two decades of experience in material handling, warehouse execution and industrial automation. Throughout his career, he has held leadership, sales, engineering, service and market development roles at Dematic, SSI Schaefer, Transbotics Corporation, Symtx and Williams Technologies. This diverse background has given him a unique perspective on the evolution of supply chain technology and customer-centric automation solutions. Today, Adam is part of Dematic's Global Strategy and Go-to-Market organization, where he leads Market Research and Corporate Development. He focuses on supply chain challenges, industrial automation and robotics. His work examines how big data, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping warehouse execution and material handling operations. Adam earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from the University of Phoenix and is recognized for combining deep technical expertise with strategic business insight to drive innovation, operational excellence and customer success. About Dematic delivers intelligent automation solutions for the supply chain that adapt to change, maximize productivity and capacity, reduce risk and create lasting competitive advantage. Drawing on the combined expertise of more than 10,000 employees worldwide, Dematic develops, implements and supports operations featuring advanced technologies and software. With consulting, research, engineering, manufacturing and service centers in over 26 countries, Dematic is a trusted partner for distributors, warehouses and manufacturers globally. Headquartered in Atlanta, Dematic is a member of KION, the Supply Chain Solutions Company. Key Takeaways: Future-Proofing Warehouses Against Real Estate and Labor Crunches In “Future-Proofing Warehouses Against Real Estate and Labor Crunches”, Joe Lynch speaks with Senior Director, Market Intelligence at Dematic, Adam Brown, about how automation, software, and high-density storage solve the industry's toughest labor shortages and space constraints. De-risking the Labor Crisis: Dematic replaces physically demanding, high-turnover manual roles with AMRs, AGVs, and Goods-to-Person systems—shifting workers to safer supervisory tasks and insulating operations from labor shortages. Vertical Footprint Optimization: By deploying high-density AS/RS, pallet shuttles, and AutoStore™ integrations, Dematic enables facilities to quadruple inventory capacity vertically without taking on costly new real estate. Scalable Peak-Demand Management: Modular automation (like the Multishuttle®) combined with AI picking allows fulfillment networks to dynamically absorb massive order surges without structural redesigns or operational backlogs. Single-Brain Software Integration: Unified execution platforms (e.g., Dematic Command Center) eliminate disconnected software silos, transforming disparate hardware into a single, self-optimizing operational brain. Flawless Execution & Reverse Logistics Reduction: Automated order sequencing, dynamic buffering, and high-speed sorting strip human error out of picking and packing, drastically curbing the heavy costs of returns and mis-picks. Comprehensive End-to-End Orchestration: Dematic solves warehouse challenges holistically—unifying hardware, software, and dynamic workflows rather than relying on point-solution quick fixes. Protection of Customer Trust & Margins: Accelerating order-to-door delivery while eliminating fulfillment errors directly preserves brand reputation and safeguards profit margins. Learn More About Future-Proofing Warehouses Against Real Estate and Labor Crunches The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Why the FMC Exists and How It Protects American Supply Chains with Laura Dibella
09/16/2026
Why the FMC Exists and How It Protects American Supply Chains with Laura Dibella
In “Why the FMC Exists and How It Protects American Supply Chains”, speaks with Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), , about how the agency regulates ocean shipping, resolves cargo disputes, and safeguards American importers, exporters, and consumers from supply chain disruptions. About Laura DiBella serves as Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, having been nominated by President Trump in September 2025, confirmed by the Senate in December, sworn in as Commissioner on January 6, 2026, and designated Chairman later that month for a term through June 30, 2028. Before this role, she worked as a government affairs advisor for Adams and Reese LLP after serving as Florida’s first female Secretary of Commerce, President and CEO of Enterprise Florida, and President of Business Development at the Florida Department of Commerce. Her maritime leadership career began in 2017 as temporary Port Director for the Port of Fernandina, later becoming the first full-time Executive Director of the Florida Harbor Pilots Association in 2019, where she spearheaded key infrastructure and policy initiatives. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida and is an accomplished marathon runner. About Federal Maritime Commission is an independent agency of the federal government whose mission is to ensure a competitive and reliable international ocean transportation supply system that supports the U.S. economy and protects the public from unfair and deceptive practices. Key Takeaways: Why the FMC Exists and How It Protects American Supply Chains In “Why the FMC Exists and How It Protects American Supply Chains”, Joe Lynch speaks with Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), Laura DiBella, about how the agency regulates ocean shipping, resolves cargo disputes, and safeguards American importers, exporters, and consumers from supply chain disruptions. Federal Maritime Commission Purpose: The FMC is an independent federal agency dedicated to maintaining a competitive, reliable international ocean transportation system that protects American consumers and taxpayers from unfair and deceptive supply chain practices. Support for U.S. Cargo & Economic Interests: The agency regulates ocean shipping to safeguard American importers and exporters, focusing on ensuring cargo fluidity, economic viability, and mitigating supply chain-driven inflation. Broad Industry Regulation: The FMC oversees and regulates ocean common carriers, marine terminal operators (MTOs), and ocean transportation intermediaries (OTIs). Impact of OSRA 2022: The Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 expanded the FMC's authority, enabling faster responses to U.S. shippers and establishing dedicated processes to address unfair detention and demurrage charges. Accessible Dispute Resolution: Through its Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services, the agency provides mediation between shippers and carriers to resolve commercial conflicts cost-effectively without requiring formal litigation. Licensing and Supply Chain Security: The FMC enforces licensing, bonding, and vetting for maritime entities to ensure reliable cargo delivery and protect against security threats and freight fraud. Proactive Public Resource: Beyond serving as a regulatory body, the FMC actively engages with small shippers and industry stakeholders to offer guidance and solve logistics challenges before they disrupt operations. Learn More About Why the FMC Exists and How It Protects American Supply Chains The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Why the Yard is Your Supply Chain’s Biggest Bottleneck (And How to Fix It) with Adam Newsome
09/10/2026
Why the Yard is Your Supply Chain’s Biggest Bottleneck (And How to Fix It) with Adam Newsome
In “Why the Yard is Your Supply Chain’s Biggest Bottleneck (And How to Fix It)”, speaks with CEO of Lazer Logistics, , about how turning the yard from an unmanaged blind spot into an optimized, tech-enabled transition zone unlocks massive supply chain velocity and cost savings. About Adam Newsome is CEO of Lazer Logistics, bringing 25 years of business experience to the company’s strategic vision and growth. He leads with a focus on operational excellence, disciplined execution and a people-first culture. Raised in an entrepreneurial household, Adam helped launch Lazer alongside his father who co-founded it in 1996. That hands-on beginning shaped his leadership approach: respect for the work, humility and practical problem-solving. Adam has guided Lazer through major growth milestones, including a Williams-Sonoma partnership that doubled the business, its first private equity partnership in 2010 and acquisitions and technology integration beginning in 2019. He focuses on helping customers improve yard operations through technology, operational expertise and people, while sharing lessons on resilience, growth and solving real business challenges with fellow leaders. About Lazer Logistics Since 1996, has been a leading provider of outsourced yard management, including spotting, shuttling, trailer rentals, gate management, drayage and technology solutions that help customers improve safety and performance across their logistics networks. The company is powered by a 3-pronged approach to efficiency and effectiveness rooted in technology, operations and most importantly, people. With over 800+ locations across 43 states and Canada, Lazer helps 57 of the Fortune 500 unlock precision, uptime and measurable CO₂ savings. In 2026, Lazer Logistics surpassed 4 million zero-emission miles across its North American electric yard operations while delivering an average net energy cost reduction of 85% for participating enterprise customer sites. The company was recognized as a Top Dedicated Contract Carrier by Transport Topics and a Great Supply Chain Partner by SupplyChainBrain. Key Takeaways: Why the Yard is Your Supply Chain’s Biggest Bottleneck (And How to Fix It) In “Why the Yard is Your Supply Chain’s Biggest Bottleneck (And How to Fix It)”, Joe Lynch speaks with CEO of Lazer Logistics, Adam Newsome, about how turning the yard from an unmanaged blind spot into an optimized, tech-enabled transition zone unlocks massive supply chain velocity and cost savings. Automate Real-Time Yard Visibility with AI Vision: Traditional yard audits and manual YMS tracking leave critical asset blind spots. Utilizing AI-driven computer vision on yard trucks automatically updates trailer locations, loaded statuses, and geospatial data in real time without relying on human error. Eliminate Dwell Time and Expensive Detention Fees: Gate bottlenecks, chaotic trailer shuffling, and slow turnarounds trigger severe penalty fees from carriers. Streamlining gate workflows, automating spotter moves, and syncing trailer positioning directly with warehouse schedules maximizes dock door throughput. Outsource Specialized Spotter Operations to Mitigate Labor Strain: Recruiting, training, and maintaining in-house yard drivers and specialized equipment creates operational friction. Turnkey, safety-certified spotters handle rigorous backing protocols, peak seasonal surges, and strict compliance without risking site safety or high turnover. Protect Cold Chain Integrity via Continuous Reefer Monitoring: A trailer running out of fuel or dropping temperature while waiting in the yard leads to scrapped product and compliance failures. Active reefer management—including scheduled fueling, proactive temperature logging, and automated out-of-range alerts—safeguards perishable cargo. Transition Yard Operations to Electric Spotters for Cost-Neutral Decarbonization: Idling diesel yard tractors generate heavy emissions and high fuel overhead. EV yard tractors eliminate localized air pollution and diesel costs, offering an enterprise-ready, cost-neutral path toward net-zero supply chain mandates. Optimize Fleet Efficiency by Target-Reducing Idle Time: Fuel burn from stationary spotters is a major hidden expense. Installing telematics directly on yard trucks allows operations to monitor engine usage, cap average idling below 15%, and significantly lower net fuel costs across distribution sites. Reinforce Site Security to Combat Freight Theft and Fraud: Large distribution yards serve as primary attack vectors for cargo theft and unauthorized access. Implementing centralized gate access, automated digital check-ins, and strict driver vetting shields inventory against organized freight fraud. 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Why the Future of Freight Has No Driver's Cab with Eyal Cohen
09/03/2026
Why the Future of Freight Has No Driver's Cab with Eyal Cohen
In “Why the Future of Freight Has No Driver's Cab”, speaks with Founder and CEO of Humble Robotics, , about how cabless, electric autonomous haulers are reimagining commercial logistics from the ground up. About Eyal Cohen is the Founder and CEO of Humble Robotics, an autonomous electric trucking company that recently closed a seed round and emerged from stealth with the Humble Hauler – a fully autonomous, cabless, electric Class 8 truck built from the ground up. Cohen spent his career at the frontier of autonomous vehicles and electrification: he was inside Apple's self-driving program in its early days, watched Uber move into commercial freight, executed the world's first autonomous freight delivery by semi-truck, and sold his previous company to John Deere. About Humble Robotics is an autonomous vehicle technology company reimagining commercial freight transportation through physical AI and zero-emission heavy hauling. The company builds fully autonomous, electric Class 8 haulers purpose-built to handle complex logistics scenarios without a traditional driver cab or diesel tank. By blending vision-language-action (VLA) models with robust, lightweight hardware, Humble Robotics powers a universal platform supporting multiple vehicle configurations. Its cabless, vision-first design is 20% lighter than standard rigs, reaching up to a 200-mile range at 55 mph. Functioning as tractor, trailer, and driver combined, the Humble Hauler delivers a true dock-to-dock solution that lowers per-mile operating costs, eliminates fuel dependency, and streamlines global supply chain operations. Key Takeaways: Why the Future of Freight Has No Driver's Cab In “Why the Future of Freight Has No Driver's Cab”, Joe Lynch speaks with Founder and CEO of Humble Robotics, Eyal Cohen, about how cabless, electric autonomous haulers are reimagining commercial logistics from the ground up. Shedding the "Driver & Cab Tax": Traditional Class 8 trucks carry heavy operational overhead due to driver labor, sleeper cabs, and complex mechanical maintenance; eliminating cab infrastructure entirely with a purpose-built autonomous chassis lowers total cost-per-mile across equipment, labor, and maintenance. Eliminating the 20% Deadweight Penalty: Standard semi-truck setups waste allowable weight limits hauling heavy engine cabs, fuel systems, and driver amenities. A streamlined, cabless universal platform is 20% lighter, letting shippers maximize payload weight per route. Targeting High-Volume, Short-Haul Routes First: While industry focus often gravitates toward long-haul trucking, 87% of U.S. truck tonnage moves under 250 miles; focusing on high-frequency, short-haul moves (like drayage, port transfers, rail yards, and inter-facility shuttling) allows electrification and autonomy to succeed immediately. Achieving True End-to-End "Dock-to-Dock" Autonomy: Highway-only autonomous systems leave complex yard maneuvers and loading dock connections to human drivers; an integrated tractor-trailer platform with a universal "lock & twist" interface can navigate yards, haul 40' international or 53' domestic containers, and dock without human intervention. Deploying Explainable VLA AI Over Rigid HD Maps: Replacing expensive, brittle HD pre-mapping with Vision-Language-Action (VLA) foundation models and 360° sensor arrays (cameras, LiDAR, radar) enables vehicles to fine-tune to new facilities in days while generating plain-language, auditable logs for every maneuver. Escaping Fuel Volatility and Carbon Costs: Operating an all-electric Class 8 powertrain with a 200-mile range protects fleets from volatile diesel pricing and rising engine maintenance while helping operators meet zero-emission mandates and secure state incentives. Building a Purpose-Built Platform Instead of Retrofitting: Retrofitting legacy diesel rigs with autonomous kits retains structural inefficiency and legacy failure points; designing a clean-sheet autonomous EV from the ground up delivers the necessary system redundancy, field safety, and operational reliability required for commercial adoption. Learn More About Why the Future of Freight Has No Driver's Cab The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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REPOST: Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group with Dan Cicerchi
09/01/2026
REPOST: Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group with Dan Cicerchi
In "Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group”, and , the General Manager of Transportation Management Solutions at Descartes Systems Group, discuss the strategic integration of trustworthy AI to enhance existing core logistics technology and solve practical pain points across the global supply chain. About Dan Cicerchi is the General Manager of Transportation Management Solutions at Descartes Systems Group, where he leads strategy and innovation for one of the industry’s most widely adopted logistics technology platforms. A seasoned entrepreneur and logistics tech pioneer, Dan co-founded MacroPoint, a real-time freight visibility solution that transformed how brokers, shippers, and carriers track and manage loads. Following its acquisition by Descartes, he has continued to champion technology that drives efficiency, transparency, and resilience across global supply chains. With decades of experience spanning startup growth and enterprise leadership, Dan is passionate about applying practical AI and automation to solve the freight industry’s most pressing challenges. He frequently shares insights on freight visibility, fraud prevention, and the future of transportation management. About Descartes Systems Group is a global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions designed to improve the productivity, performance, and security of logistics-intensive businesses. Headquartered in Waterloo, Ontario, with offices and customers worldwide, Descartes helps shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, and logistics service providers connect, collaborate, and automate across the supply chain. Its portfolio includes transportation management, visibility, customs and regulatory compliance, and e-commerce logistics solutions. By combining deep industry expertise with innovative technology, Descartes enables organizations to streamline operations, reduce costs, and deliver superior customer experiences. Thousands of companies around the world rely on Descartes’ logistics network and software to move goods more efficiently, mitigate risk, and stay ahead in an increasingly complex global marketplace. Key Takeaways: Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group In "Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group”, Joe Lynch and Dan Cicerchi, the General Manager of Transportation Management Solutions at Descartes Systems Group, discuss the strategic integration of trustworthy AI to enhance existing core logistics technology and solve practical pain points across the global supply chain. Trust First: AI adoption in logistics must be built on governance and trust, using frameworks like NIST to ensure data security and accountability. AI Augments, Doesn't Replace: AI is a powerful enhancer for core systems (TMS, visibility), not a standalone replacement. Its primary role is to improve efficiency. Focus on Practical Pain Points: Start AI implementation by targeting tedious manual tasks (e.g., check calls, data entry, carrier onboarding) for rapid, measurable ROI. Stability Over Startups: Partnering with existing, integrated tech vendors (like Descartes) ensures greater stability, expertise, and roadmap alignment than relying on new AI-only startups. Audit Your Current Tech: Before investing in new AI, ensure you are fully utilizing the latest features and integrations of your current mission-critical systems. Build Trust with Staff: Overcome internal resistance by layering AI into current workflows and establishing clear performance baselines (ROI) before deployment. Enhance What Works: The path to resilience is through strategically integrating AI into proven, existing workflows step-by-step, not by chasing every new technology trend. Learn More About Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Scale or Fail: Navigating Trade Volatility for Emerging Brands with Laura Ritchey
08/27/2026
Scale or Fail: Navigating Trade Volatility for Emerging Brands with Laura Ritchey
In “Scale or Fail: Navigating Trade Volatility for Emerging Brands”, speaks with President and CEO of the Americas region of GEODIS, , about how emerging brands can navigate trade volatility, manage inventory, and build scalable, resilient supply chains. About Laura Ritchey joined GEODIS in July 2025 as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Americas region. Laura is responsible for overseeing the region’s freight forwarding, contract logistics and transportation business units along with engineering and technology, IT, ProVenture (U.S.-based subsidiary of GEODIS focusing on industrial real estate) and Material Handling Resources (one of the country’s leading material handling distributors owned by GEODIS). In total, Laura oversees GEODIS Americas’ expansive operations including nearly 20,000 employees and more than 230 sites across eight countries. Laura brings over 30 years of experience to GEODIS, with 15 focused on supply chain management in both retail and third-party logistics. Laura began her career in finance before transitioning to supply chain operations, including sourcing, distribution and strategic transformation. Prior to her current role, Laura was most recently CEO at Radial, Inc., a leader in e-commerce fulfillment solutions, where she drove revenue growth and profitability through operational excellence. At Radial, she led the North American P&L for a $1.4B e-commerce logistics division, responsible for relationships with over 170 clients across four service lines. Before joining Radial, she held leadership positions at L Brands, FullBeauty Brands and Centric Brands. Laura is on the Dean’s Advisory Council at Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University and is an active board member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Nashville Branch. Additionally, she is actively involved with C200 whose mission is to inspire, educate, support and advance current and future women leaders. Laura earned her J.D., MBA and bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University. Additionally, Laura is accredited as a certified public accountant and admitted to the bar in Ohio. About GEODIS is a leading global logistics provider acknowledged for its expertise across all aspects of the supply chain. As a growth partner to its clients, GEODIS specializes in four lines of business: Global Freight Forwarding, Global Contract Logistics, Distribution & Express Transport, and European Road Network. The Group operates a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and 48,000 employees. In 2025, GEODIS generated €10.6 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group. Key Takeaways: Scale or Fail: Navigating Trade Volatility for Emerging Brands Beware the "10K Order Trap" During Rapid Growth: Scaling operations from 1,000 to 10,000 monthly orders often breaks a business before demand stalls. Emerging brands must build strong foundational supply chain building blocks early—such as maintaining clean master data (accurate dimensions and weights) and choosing a 3PL capable of global growth—to avoid costly operational failures when reaching inflection points. Adopt a Hybrid Inventory Strategy to Balance JIT and JIC: Shifting strictly between "Just in Time" (JIT) and "Just in Case" (JIC) risks either stockouts or trapped working capital. A balanced, hybrid approach—keeping adequate stock of fast-moving core basics while tightly controlling slow-moving seasonal items—helps protect cash flow without sacrificing availability. Re-evaluate the "Amazon Effect" and Recommerce to Protect Margins: High-speed, free shipping creates an illusion of necessity that drives up last-mile costs. Brands should focus on order delivery certainty over pure speed while implementing circular economy strategies (recommerce) to rehabilitate and resell returned apparel, which often recovers up to 95% of inventory value. Mitigate Sourcing Risks Beyond Single-Factory Bets: Diversifying supply chains requires going all the way back to raw material inputs rather than simply relocating assembly plants. Navigating evolving global tariffs requires nearshoring flexibility, dual-sourcing critical SKUs, and re-orchestrating supply chain flows across regional hubs. Understand True Landed Costs to Avoid Margin Shock: Delegating freight forwarding and customs clearance entirely to overseas manufacturers often leads to hidden markups and supply chain delays. Leveraging an end-to-end global provider with licensed customs brokerage capabilities ensures clear visibility into total landed costs and regulatory compliance. Leverage Global Scale with Curated, End-to-End Execution: Supported by a global network spanning nearly 170 countries, over 48,000 employees, and €10.6 billion (USD $12.35 billion) in revenue (2025), GEODIS provides emerging and established brands with an agile, end-to-end "launchpad for global growth" across contract logistics, freight forwarding, and transportation. Avoid the "Set It and Forget It" Supply Chain Mindset: Ongoing volatility, regulatory shifts, and geopolitical friction require continuous evaluation of supply chain networks. Taking a cautious, practical approach to emerging technologies like AI (for labor forecasting and route planning) ensures operational stability while safeguarding proprietary data. 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The Collision of Capital, Technology & Logistics with Joey Milstein
08/25/2026
The Collision of Capital, Technology & Logistics with Joey Milstein
In “The Collision of Capital, Technology & Logistics”, speaks with Founder & Managing Partner of Gamma Point Advisory, , about how the intersection of private equity, artificial intelligence, and operational execution is reshaping the future of supply chain M&A. About Joey Milstein has spent more than 35 years inside the machinery of global trade, leading commercial organizations for ocean carriers, freight forwarders, and venture-backed logistics technology companies before moving to the advisory side. Having built businesses, sold technology, raised capital, and led growth from inside the industry, he brings an operator's perspective to every transaction. As Founder & Managing Partner of Gamma Point Advisory, Joseph advises founders on sell-side M&A and guides private equity firms, institutional investors, and strategic acquirers on buy-side strategy, growth, and logistics technology. He is known for connecting the worlds of operations, innovation, and capital, helping clients identify opportunities others miss and navigate one of the world's most complex industries with clarity and conviction. Joseph holds both Bachelor's and Master's degrees from New York University and serves as a strategic advisor to multiple logistics technology companies. About Gamma Point Advisory is a boutique M&A and strategic advisory firm focused exclusively on transportation, supply chain, and logistics technology. Unlike generalist investment banks or consultants, Gamma Point combines deep operating experience with transaction expertise, giving clients advice grounded in how the industry actually works. The firm advises founder-led businesses on sell-side M&A, capital formation, and strategic growth, while providing buy-side advisory to private equity firms, institutional investors, and strategic acquirers sourcing, evaluating, and executing investments across the logistics ecosystem. Gamma Point also works closely with emerging logistics technology companies to accelerate commercialization and market adoption. Gamma Point sits at the intersection of three worlds that rarely speak the same language: operators who move freight, innovators building the future, and the capital that funds it. Key Takeaways: The Collision of Capital, Technology & Logistics In “The Collision of Capital, Technology & Logistics”, Joe Lynch speaks with Founder & Managing Partner of Gamma Point Advisory, Joey Milstein, about how the intersection of private equity, artificial intelligence, and operational execution is reshaping the future of supply chain M&A. The Intersection of Three Disconnected Worlds: Capital markets, technology providers, and logistics operators routinely "talk past each other" at industry conferences. Sustainable progress requires a "translator" who understands the nuances of operational realities, deal structures, and true software utility. The "Silver Tsunami" Driving Consolidation: Hundreds of healthy, lower mid-market logistics companies (drayage, family-owned forwarders, customs brokers) are reaching an inflection point. Owners in their 60s and 70s without generational succession plans are seeking capital infusions, mergers, or buyouts to exit. Prep Work Directly Impacts Valuations: Founders often lose millions in prospective sale value by going to market unprepared. Spending 3–6 months to audit operations, clean up balance sheets, remove unutilized assets ("dead wood"), and document institutional knowledge transforms potential multiples from 4x to 6x EBITDA. Private Equity's "Buy-and-Build" Playbook: Private equity interest in logistics—especially freight brokerage—is accelerating. PE firms look for established "platform" companies to serve as a base, then execute a "buy-and-build" strategy by acquiring smaller complementary add-ons to build scale rapidly over a 3-to-5-year horizon. Adopting Technology to Boost Valuations: Tech adoption is no longer optional for legacy operators. Implementing scalable, transferable software or modern AI tools directly increases a firm's exit valuation multiple, whereas sticking to outdated manual processes or disconnected legacy tech depresses market interest. Evaluating "Real AI" vs. Expensive Demos: With capital drying up for speculative "digital brokers" that subsidized freight rates without long-term profitability, investors and buyers now focus on technology that delivers measurable operational productivity, security, and lower overhead rather than slick, superficial software demos. Culture and Team Depth Outweigh Simple Financials: Successful acquisitions require balancing human dynamics and cultural fit alongside pure financial metrics. Founders must build institutional depth rather than centralizing all sales, financial, and operational expertise within a single leader. 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Eliminating EDI Headaches: Managed Integration vs. Ticket Queues with Mitch Bernet
08/19/2026
Eliminating EDI Headaches: Managed Integration vs. Ticket Queues with Mitch Bernet
In “Eliminating EDI Headaches: Managed Integration vs. Ticket Queues”, speaks with Co-Founder and Leader of Atadex, , about how fully managed EDI and API integrations eliminate operational bottlenecks, speed up customer onboarding, and drive supply chain profitability. About Mitch Bernet is the Co-Founder and Leader of Atadex, bringing decades of supply chain expertise and executive leadership to the role. Raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he earned a degree from Providence College, an MBA in Finance from Creighton University, and launched his career at Union Pacific Railroad before taking senior management roles at Conrail, APL Logistics, and Hub Group. A seasoned entrepreneur, he went on to found Integra Logistics in 2003 and co-found Coyote Logistics in 2008—growing the Atlanta-based business through its eventual acquisition by UPS—before taking a brief hiatus and returning to the industry to co-found Atadex. Married to Rosanna for 35 years, he is the proud father of two children, Matthew and Katherine, who graduated from Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia, respectively. About Atadex is a full-service EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) and API integration provider exclusively focused on the supply chain and logistics industry. The company was founded to deliver fully managed, fast, low-cost data integration—handling everything end to end so clients don't need in-house EDI expertise and positioning itself as an alternative to legacy EDI vendors, self-serve platforms, and traditional professional services. Atadex connects any TMS or WMS (including Blue Yonder, Trimble, Manhattan, Turvo, Shipwell, TAI, and McLeod) to any trading partner, supporting all major formats (X12, EDIFACT, API, XML, CSV, JSON) and transaction types. The company processes over 50 million messages per month and has completed more than 5,000 go-lives, pairing each client with a dedicated, US-based account manager. Its goal is to fundamentally change how data integration is managed and serviced, helping clients improve productivity, performance, and profitability. Target customers include carriers and 3PLs with complex partner networks, warehouses and 4PLs seeking a fully outsourced EDI department, and TMS/WMS providers wanting to offer integration without building their own delivery teams. Atadex also offers AssetMaps (fleet consolidation) and Freight Board Central (freight board integration). Key Takeaways: Eliminating EDI Headaches: Managed Integration vs. Ticket Queues In “Eliminating EDI Headaches: Managed Integration vs. Ticket Queues”, Joe Lynch speaks with Co-Founder and Leader of Atadex, Mitch Bernet, about how fully managed EDI and API integrations eliminate operational bottlenecks, speed up customer onboarding, and drive supply chain profitability. EDI as a Profitability Driver, Not Just an IT Task: Data integration directly impacts the bottom line by eliminating manual data entry, reducing human error, and allowing logistics staff to manage up to 25% more volume per person without adding head count. Overcoming System Incompatibility via "Universal Translation": Supply chain tech remains heavily fragmented between legacy systems (like mainframes or EDI X12) and modern RESTful APIs. Atadex acts as a universal translator, mapping and converting any data format into whatever spec a trading partner requires. Speed to Integration Equals Speed to Revenue: Onboarding delays can stall new customer relationships for months and destroy projected margins. Rapid implementation and proactive partner coordination directly protect customer retention and protect sales commissions. Fully Managed Service vs. Anonymous Ticket Queues: Logistics operates on extreme urgency where every minor issue feels like a major emergency. Relying on dedicated, domain-expert project managers who proactively catch failed transmissions beats putting in tickets with traditional tech providers. Decoupling Customer Support from Technical Engineering: Mirroring the operational structure pioneer Jeff Silver used at Coyote Logistics, separating client-facing project managers from back-end technical mappers ensures seamless communication and higher overall customer satisfaction. Transparent Pricing Over Complex VAN Fees: Traditional EDI value-added networks (VANs) often obscure costs behind per-kilo-character charges. Simplifying billing to clear, per-message rates provides total transparency so companies can calculate precise integration costs per trading partner. Practical AI Integration with a "People-First" Foundation: While AI tools (like Claude) are being developed internally to speed up complex mapping and protocol translation, technology will supplement—rather than replace—the critical human element required to support high-stakes logistics operations. Learn More About Eliminating EDI Headaches: Managed Integration vs. Ticket Queues The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The Infrastructure Autonomous Delivery Needs with Dan O’Toole
08/13/2026
The Infrastructure Autonomous Delivery Needs with Dan O’Toole
In “The Infrastructure Autonomous Delivery Needs”, speaks with Chairman and CEO of Arrive AI, , about why smart endpoint infrastructure is the missing link to scaling autonomous logistics. About Dan O'Toole , CEO of Arrive AI, can speak to why endpoint coordination networks and logistics software are becoming the unresolved infrastructure problem—and the most durable value driver—in commercial autonomous logistics. Drawing on clinical-grade deployment data that reveals what the market actually needs to scale, he offers actionable lessons on how these operational insights translate seamlessly from healthcare to the broader commercial logistics ecosystem. About Arrive AI (Nasdaq: ARAI) stands apart by addressing the critical gap in autonomous logistics: the endpoint. Its Arrive Points smart hubs and Arrive OS software form a hardware-agnostic, AI-orchestrated network that connects drones, ground robots, and human couriers through verified, chain-of-custody handoffs. Backed by a decade of development, 10 U.S. patents, and international filings in 20-plus countries, this architecture isn't a feature add-on—it is the essential operating layer that makes autonomous delivery commercially viable. While competitors rush to deploy vehicles, Arrive AI has already proven its infrastructure in high-stakes, live hospital environments—securing a second contract on the strength of its initial deployment—positioning the company as a defensible, revenue-ready infrastructure asset as public markets increasingly reward durable AI networks. Key Takeaways: The Infrastructure Autonomous Delivery Needs In “The Infrastructure Autonomous Delivery Needs”, Joe Lynch speaks with Chairman and CEO of Arrive AI, Dan O'Toole, about why smart endpoint infrastructure is the missing link to scaling autonomous logistics. Solving the "Last 50 Feet" Problem: While multimillion-dollar autonomous drones and ground rovers can navigate miles via GPS and LiDAR, deliveries often fail at the final drop-off point. Arrive AI bridges this gap with Arrive Point™ smart hubs, providing a secure physical landing pad and drop-chute for autonomous vehicles. Creating an Unbroken Chain of Custody: To combat the 1.7 million packages stolen daily in the U.S. and secure high-value goods like pharmaceuticals, Arrive Points utilize biometrics, RFID, and time-of-flight sensors. The unit stays locked until accessed by an authorized recipient, maintaining a verified digital record from dispatch to retrieval. Hardware-Agnostic Infrastructure for Universal Access: Rather than fragmenting the market with proprietary drop zones for different brands, Arrive AI acts as a carrier-agnostic portal. Its open operating layer (Arrive OS) allows drones, ground robots, and human couriers from any fleet to execute seamless handoffs at a single managed endpoint. Unlocking Asynchronous Delivery: Traditional delivery requires both courier and recipient to synchronize schedules, leading to costly re-delivery delays. Arrive AI’s smart hubs decouple drop-off times from human availability, allowing 24/7 unattended deliveries and pick-ups without risk of weather damage, theft, or product degradation. A Defensible "Napkin to Nasdaq" IP Wall: Founded in 2014 and listed on the Nasdaq (ARAI) in 2025, Arrive AI established a critical first-mover advantage by filing foundational patents before major tech giants. The company now holds 10 U.S. patents and international filings across 20+ countries, creating a robust intellectual property moat. Proven Performance in High-Stakes Environments: Beyond residential ecommerce, Arrive AI’s infrastructure has been validated in live hospital settings—where delivery failures carry strict regulatory consequences rather than just operational inconvenience. This clinical-grade reliability directly enabled the company to secure follow-on enterprise contracts. Climate Control for Sensitive Payloads: Outfitted with Climate Assist™ technology, Arrive Points can actively heat or cool up to 20 degrees within minutes to preserve perishable groceries and temperature-sensitive medical supplies, while integrated top-door heaters keep snow and ice from freezing the automated doors. Learn More About The Infrastructure Autonomous Delivery Needs The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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How Nordian's Platform Enables Long-Haul Autonomy with Michael Schramm
08/11/2026
How Nordian's Platform Enables Long-Haul Autonomy with Michael Schramm
In “How Nordian's Platform Enables Long-Haul Autonomy”, speaks with Co-founder and CEO of Nordian, , about how Nordian enables long-haul autonomy by combining precise positioning, satellite connectivity, and edge intelligence into a single platform. About Michael Schramm is Co-founder and CEO of Nordian, the positioning and connectivity platform for Physical AI, delivering centimeter-level GNSS corrections, satellite connectivity, and fleet lifecycle management to some of the largest industrial OEMs in the Americas. A serial entrepreneur with 15+ years of executive leadership, he is a founding partner of Ambush, an applied AI engineering firm; co-founder of Echo54, an advanced sensing R&D company serving US and allied government agencies; and founder of GOAT, an acquired consumer micro-mobility company. Across nearly two decades of building companies that operate in the physical world, he kept running into the same failure point: machines break when positioning and connectivity aren't engineered as one system. Nordian exists to fix that. About Nordian is the positioning and connectivity platform for Physical AI. One platform delivers centimeter-level GNSS corrections, integrated satellite connectivity, and fleet lifecycle management to industrial OEMs across transportation, agriculture, and mining. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, and deliberately launched in the hardest environments on Earth, Nordian built South America's largest PPP-RTK network, and its platform serves 80% of the region's 20 largest agricultural OEMs. Proven where networks fail and machines can't, Nordian is now expanding globally to power autonomous operations at scale. Key Takeaways: How Nordian's Platform Enables Long-Haul Autonomy In “How Nordian's Platform Enables Long-Haul Autonomy”, Joe Lynch speaks with Co-founder and CEO of Nordian, Michael Schramm, about how Nordian enables long-haul autonomy by combining precise positioning, satellite connectivity, and edge intelligence into a single platform. Physical AI is a Connectivity and Processing Challenge, Not an AI Model Problem: Current AI systems are fully capable of handling autonomous navigation, but real-world physical AI is constrained by connectivity and real-time processing capabilities. Offloading critical decisions to back-end cloud servers introduces latency, which is dangerous for heavy machinery like a 25-ton autonomous truck moving at highway speeds. Edge Computing and Local Inference Eliminate Deadly Latency: To operate safely without reliance on uninterrupted internet access, 100% of mission-critical decisions must occur directly on the device using edge computing. Nordian provides the local processing capacity needed for real-time inference, allowing autonomous vehicles, drones, and heavy equipment to operate safely in "air-gapped" environments or during brief network dropouts. Centimeter-Level Positioning Replaces Imprecise Traditional GPS: Standard GPS provides meter-level accuracy, which is acceptable for route navigation but unacceptable for vehicle control, lane-level autonomous driving, precise geofencing, or row-crop agriculture. By combining satellite signals with dedicated ground reference stations to calculate real-time differential corrections, Nordian achieves centimeter-level accuracy required for absolute control. Integration Burden is the Primary Bottleneck for OEMs: Equipment manufacturers historically acted as their own integrators—trying to bolt together separate vendors for chipsets, satellite bands, cellular modems, and edge computing. Nordian abstracts this complexity by unifying precise positioning, resilient connectivity, and edge intelligence into a single plug-and-play factory-installed package with an SDK for custom software development. A Multi-Band "N+3" Connectivity Model Bridges the Connectivity Gap: Autonomy dies where cellular coverage fails, particularly across the 71% of U.S. roadways located in rural environments. Nordian solves the connectivity gap by layering cellular networks, L-band communications, and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations (including integrated Starlink connectivity) into a redundant system capable of rapid sub-10-second signal convergence. Agricultural Battle-Testing Translates Directly to Transportation and Logistics: Before expanding into long-haul trucking and yard logistics, Nordian proved its system in South America's harsh agricultural environments, building a massive reference station network across Brazil and Argentina. This foundation enabled them to capture 80% of the top 20 agricultural OEMs in the region—proving the technology where infrastructure is non-existent and atmospheric interference (scintillation) is severe. Autonomous Technology Target Long-Haul Workloads to Improve Quality of Life: Autonomous technology is positioned to address structural labor shortages by replacing high-turnover, long-haul routes (where drivers are away from home for weeks) with fully autonomous systems or human-augmented modes. This shifts human operators toward last-mile and short-haul jobs, improving driver safety, operational utilization, and overall work-life balance. Learn More About How Nordian's Platform Enables Long-Haul Autonomy The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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REPOST: Trimble's Perspective: The Future of Freight is Connected with Rob Painter
08/06/2026
REPOST: Trimble's Perspective: The Future of Freight is Connected with Rob Painter
In “Trimble's Perspective: The Future of Freight is Connected”, and , Trimble's President and Chief Executive Officer, discuss how Trimble connects the freight ecosystem—people, data, and workflows—to navigate the difficult truckload market and drive customer efficiency using AI and integrated commercial solutions. About Rob Painter became Trimble's president and chief executive officer in January 2020. From 2016 through 2019, he served as the Company's chief financial officer. Joining the Company in 2006, Painter held a variety of leadership positions, including corporate development, corporate strategy, general manager of Construction Services, general manager of the Intelligent Construction Tools international joint venture, and vice president of Trimble Buildings construction software. In August 2023, he was appointed to serve on the Synopsys Board of Directors. Painter holds a bachelor's degree in finance from West Virginia University and an MBA from Harvard University. About Trimble Transportation provides fleets with solutions to create a fully integrated supply chain. With an intelligent ecosystem of products and services, Trimble Transportation enables customers to embrace the rapid technological evolution of the industry and connect all aspects of transportation and logistics — trucks, drivers, back office, freight and assets. Trimble Transportation delivers an open, scalable platform to help customers make more informed decisions and maximize performance, visibility and safety. Key Takeaways: Trimble's Perspective: The Future of Freight is Connected In “Trimble's Perspective: The Future of Freight is Connected”, and , Trimble's President and Chief Executive Officer, discuss how Trimble connects the freight ecosystem—people, data, and workflows—to navigate the difficult truckload market and drive customer efficiency using AI and integrated commercial solutions. Holistic Solution for a Difficult Truckload Market: Trimble's T&L segment directly addresses the pressures of the current truckload market by providing core operational platforms (TMW.Suite, TruckMate) to help carriers, shippers, and brokers manage operations, accounting, and dispatch, ensuring maximum efficiency and cost control when margins are tight. Driving Strategy with the Connect & Scale Message: The entire product portfolio—spanning TMS, maintenance, visibility, and procurement—is structured to embody Trimble's "Connect & Scale" message, which focuses on integrating people, data, and workflows into a unified ecosystem to drive growth and efficiency. AI-Powered Autonomous Freight Procurement: Trimble is leveraging AI within its Freight Procurement solutions (Transporeon, Freight Marketplace) to move toward autonomous procurement. This helps shippers and brokers efficiently source capacity and optimize freight spend in real-time, which is critical in a volatile capacity environment. Commercial Mapping for Efficiency and Safety: Essential tools like Trimble MAPS (CoPilot, Appian) go beyond basic navigation. They provide commercial-grade routing that accounts for truck-specific constraints and HOS, acting as a crucial element in optimizing routes and protecting drivers (part of the people and workflow components of Connect & Scale). TMS as the Core Workflow Integrator: Comprehensive Transportation Management Systems (TMS) platforms like TMW.Suite act as the central brain for workflows, integrating data across the business from operations to financial accounting, which is foundational to the "Scale" component of Trimble's strategy. Proactive Maintenance and Data Connectivity: Solutions for Asset & Fleet Maintenance focus on maximizing uptime—a key lever in today's market. By using data from connected trucks (fault codes, location) for preventative and predictive maintenance, they ensure assets remain productive and reduce unexpected downtime. Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation (People & Data): The Safety & Compliance offerings help fleets mitigate risk and adhere to federal regulations, ensuring the safety and legal operation of their people (drivers) and assets, proving that technology is essential for responsible management and effective use of operational data. Learn More About Trimble's Perspective: The Future of Freight is Connected The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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The Fictitious Pickup Boom: How Fake Drivers Steal Freight with Jillian Kossman
08/03/2026
The Fictitious Pickup Boom: How Fake Drivers Steal Freight with Jillian Kossman
In “The Fictitious Pickup Boom: How Fake Drivers Steal Freight”, speaks with Chief Operating Officer at IDScan.net, , about how modern fraudsters use fake CDLs to execute fictitious pickups—and how automated identity verification at the gate can stop them. About Jillian Kossman is Chief Operating Officer at IDScan.net, an identity verification firm helping businesses combat fraud and build trust in digital and in-person transactions. As COO, she leads the company’s day-to-day operations, scaling processes, technology partnerships and customer delivery to support organisations operating in highly regulated and high-risk environments. About IDScan.net offers the leading AI-powered identity verification platform focusing on ID fraud prevention, age verification, and access management for security and compliance. Across their suite of products, IDScan.net performs more than 23,000,000 ID and identity-related transactions monthly for more than 7,500 customers. Including many of the world’s largest manufacturers and logistics organizations. For more information, visit www.idscan.net. Key Takeaways: The Fictitious Pickup Boom: How Fake Drivers Steal Freight In “The Fictitious Pickup Boom: How Fake Drivers Steal Freight”, Joe Lynch speaks with Chief Operating Officer at IDScan.net, Jillian Kossman, about how modern fraudsters use fake CDLs to execute fictitious pickups—and how automated identity verification at the gate can stop them. Cargo Theft Has Evolved from Physical Hijacking to Digital Fraud: Cargo theft is no longer defined by armed robberies or physical break-ins like in decades past. Today’s threat landscape relies on organized digital impersonation, synthetic identities, and illegitimate credentials—making cybersecurity and physical cargo security completely interdependent at the point of pickup. The Non-Domiciled CDL Crackdown is Driving Fake ID Demand: Strict federal enforcement and regulatory changes have led to many drivers losing their valid non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs). Unwilling to walk away from high-paying haul opportunities, many of these drivers are turning to fake IDs sourced from the dark web, triggering a massive surge in fictitious pickups across the logistics industry. Visual Gate Inspections Are No Longer Sufficient: Modern counterfeit CDLs feature accurate window panes, microprinting, holograms, and realistic barcode structures that are virtually impossible for gate guards or dock workers to catch visually. Effective fraud prevention requires forensic-level automated scanning that checks physical and digital security features against thousands of global document templates in seconds. Rapid ID Parsing Eliminates Yard Bottlenecks and Human Error: Manual check-in workflows—like handwriting details on paper clipboards or taking unencrypted smartphone photos—cause long yard queues and introduce human error. Automated driver intake via kiosks or guard-shack scanners processes credentials in under 15 seconds, instantly populating accurate driver data into the TMS, WMS, or YMS. Remote Biometric Verification Neutralizes Double-Brokering Risks: Fictitious pickups often rely on dispatching unvetted or impersonated drivers. By deploying remote identity verification (such as IDScan.net's DIVE platform) via SMS prior to arrival, freight brokers and 3PLs can cross-reference live facial biometrics against the CDL photo and dispatch records to ensure the correct driver is at the wheel. Encrypted Digital Audits Replace Vulnerable Paper Logs: Relying on paper sign-in sheets leaves operations exposed during CTPAT/AEO security audits or law enforcement investigations. Automated, cloud-based ID scanning creates a time-stamped, searchable, and encrypted chain-of-custody record (capturing driver IDs, entry/exit timestamps, and truck photos) while protecting sensitive driver PII. Instant Watchlist Cross-Referencing Blocks Unauthorized Access: Physical security gate checks need real-time, automated defense against blacklisted or prohibited drivers. Point-of-scan verification instantly matches scanned driver credentials against internal "do not admit" (BOLO) lists, expired license databases, and government sanction watchlists (such as OFAC), stopping unauthorized entry before a trailer is ever loaded. Learn More About The Fictitious Pickup Boom: How Fake Drivers Steal Freight The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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Built to Last: Inside Holman Logistics with Mike Gardner
07/30/2026
Built to Last: Inside Holman Logistics with Mike Gardner
In “Built to Last: Inside Holman Logistics”, speaks with President and COO of Holman Logistics, , about how the company's 162-year heritage, safety-first culture, and long-term customer partnerships drive sustainable growth in today’s supply chain landscape. About Mike Gardner is the President & COO of Holman Logistics, a national third-party logistics company headquartered in Seattle, Washington. With a 40-plus-year career in supply chain management, Mike has held executive roles at GATX Logistics, APL Logistics, and DHL Supply Chain, previously serving as CEO of Kane Logistics before advising in 3PL, real estate, and venture capital. At Holman, he oversees 1,400 team members, over eight million square feet of distribution space, and a nationwide transportation network. Mike holds an MBA from Southern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Science from Miami University, where he serves on the Center for Supply Chain Excellence board. Passionate about empowering family businesses, he is also a founding board member of ALAN. Beyond logistics, this former high school chef, Cincinnati native, father of three, and marathoner has raised $7.4 million for cancer research over 16 years through Pelotonia. About Holman Logistics is a national third-party logistics (3PL) provider offering multi-client warehousing, manufacturing support, and nationwide transportation solutions. Founded in 1864 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, the privately held company manages over eight million square feet of distribution space and operates a network spanning 20 locations across nine states. Operating with over 1,400 team members, Holman specializes in high-exacting verticals, including consumer packaged goods (CPG), food and beverage, ingredients, pet food, and major appliances. Its core capabilities range from contract warehousing, plant sub-assembly, and Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) services to private fleet shipping, dedicated shuttles, freight brokerage, and direct-to-consumer ecommerce fulfillment. Grounded in a culture prioritizing operational safety and long-term customer partnerships, Holman balances its multi-generational heritage with modern operational capabilities—incorporating advanced automation, continuous improvement programs, and AI-enabled site tools to deliver consistent, high-performance execution. Key Takeaways: Built to Last: Inside Holman Logistics In “Built to Last: Inside Holman Logistics”, Joe Lynch speaks with President and COO of Holman Logistics, Mike Gardner, about how the company's 162-year heritage, safety-first culture, and long-term customer partnerships drive sustainable growth in today’s supply chain landscape. Safety as an Operational Strategy ("Journey to Zero"): Holman Logistics treats safety not as a metric compared to industry averages, but as a non-negotiable core value targeting zero incidents. Operational safety sets the foundation for service quality, and every associate is empowered to "own the stop button" to pause unsafe operations. 162+ Years of Adaptability: Founded during the Lincoln administration and family-owned for over a century, Holman’s longevity is proof of continuous adaptation—navigating world wars, recessions, deregulation, and eccommerce growth by staying close to customer needs. Culture Drives Retention and Service Consistency: In an industry plagued by high turnover, Holman relies on a people-first, performance-driven culture—reinforced by leadership orientations and awards like the Bob Downie Legacy Award—to retain experienced associates who know the customer’s business inside out. True Strategic Partnership Over Transactional Service: Holman builds long-term, embedded relationships (some lasting since the 1960s) using open communication, system integration, and gain-sharing models that align financial incentives around mutual cost savings and continuous improvement. Nimble Innovation Without Tech Hype: Holman balances legacy heritage with modern capabilities. As a privately held "thinking company," it rapidly adopts practical technology—such as AI vision tools on forklifts for training—while quickly discarding tech that doesn't add operational value. Private Ownership as a Strategic Advantage: Unlike 3PLs beholden to private equity exit timelines or quarterly public earnings, Holman’s multi-generational family leadership offers stability, long-term capital planning, and agility when customizing solutions for mid-market shippers. Focusing on Core Complex Markets: Holman deliberately specializes in high-exacting verticals—including CPG, ingredients, pet food, and major appliances—providing tailored services ranging from plant sub-assembly and store-door delivery to Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) support and final-mile execution. Learn More About Built to Last: Inside Holman Logistics The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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REPOST: SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue with Wes Arentson
07/21/2026
REPOST: SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue with Wes Arentson
In “SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue”, and , Senior Sales Manager, Logistics at , discuss how streamlining the supply chain's Order-to-Cash cycle is the key to accelerating business growth. About Wes Aretson is a Sales Manager at SPS Commerce. He leads a logistics sales team focused on providing 3PLs and Carriers with tools to optimize their supply chains, connect with their partners more efficiently and make onboarding new customers easy. Wes has over 15 years of experience in supply chain and technology helping customers solve business problems with software and automation. About SPS Commerce is the world’s leading retail network, connecting trading partners across the globe to optimize supply chain operations for all stakeholders in the retail ecosystem. The company enables data-driven partnerships through innovative cloud-based technology, customer-centric service, and a team of accessible industry experts—allowing clients to focus on their core business. With over 45,000 recurring revenue customers spanning retail, grocery, distribution, supply, manufacturing, and logistics, SPS Commerce powers a vast and growing global retail network. Key Takeaways: SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue In “Optimize Speed to Revenue”, Joe Lynch and Wes Arentson, Senior Sales Manager, Logistics at SPS Commerce, discuss how streamlining the supply chain's Order-to-Cash cycle is the key to accelerating business growth. Direct Correlation: Order-to-Cash Speed = Revenue Acceleration. The single most critical factor in optimizing revenue is the speed of your Order-to-Cash (O2C) cycle. Wes stresses that every inefficiency in processing orders, from receipt to payment, translates directly into delayed revenue. Streamlining O2C with efficient data exchange is the fastest way to pull cash forward. Stop Margin Leaks by Eliminating Disconnected Systems. Learn how disjointed or manual systems create costly margin leaks—the silent erosion of profitability. These leaks are often caused by the lack of connection between trading partner portals, forcing manual data re-entry and increasing the risk of chargebacks and penalties. EDI as the Foundation for Impeccable Data Quality. At the core of SPS Commerce’s success is the commitment to data quality. Listeners will understand that clean, standardized, and automated data transmission via modern EDI is essential not just for compliance, but for enabling accurate forecasting and preventing operational errors for all SPS Commerce customers. Master Retailer Scorecards by Fixing Data Exchange. Achieving and exceeding Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs)—the foundation of retailer scorecards and milestones—is non-negotiable. Wes explains that a failure to meet these standards is often a symptom of poor EDI connections or the lack thereof, not operational failure. Automated, accurate EDI is the fix. Accelerate Onboarding with Proven Compliance and Security. Wes highlights the comprehensive service offered by SPS Commerce, focusing on mapping, testing, compliance, and security. This end-to-end approach drastically shaves weeks off the process of onboarding new trading partners, ensuring systems are instantly compliant and secure, which minimizes risk and accelerates time-to-revenue. The EDI Advantage: Consolidate Portals and Win More Tenders. True efficiency moves beyond basic EDI compliance. By consolidating disparate retailer portals into one platform, you eliminate the "swivel-chair" chaos. This improved efficiency and performance not only stops margin leaks but directly improves your scorecard performance, helping you win more high-value tenders. Future-Proof Partnerships with Automated Data Strategy. The conversation culminates in the shift from tactical order management to a strategic, data-driven approach. Wes advocates for using centralized EDI to build continuous learning and accountability, allowing companies to focus less on manual data work and more on connecting world-class technology with senior executives who control budget and strategy. Learn More About SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting with Michael Rentz
07/14/2026
How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting with Michael Rentz
In “How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting”, and , Chief Revenue Officer at Gnosis Freight, discuss how operational-grade logistics data automatically simplifies complex carbon compliance. About Michael Rentz is the Chief Revenue Officer at Gnosis Freight. He joined the company in the Summer of 2020. Before joining Gnosis, he got his start in the industry with the South Carolina Ports Authority and Maersk. He left Maersk in 2018 to pursue his own endeavors, which eventually led him back to Charleston, SC, where he worked for Techstars in an attempt to stand up the first-ever Supply Chain and Logistics Accelerator. The pandemic put an unexpected halt to that, and it was then that he fortuitously met Austin McCombs (CEO/Founder of Gnosis) and Jake Hoffman (CTO of Gnosis). About Gnosis Freight is the AI-native Global Freight Operating System for enterprise supply chains. It gives logistics, operations, and finance teams real-time insight into container movement and helps them Intervene earlier when delays, inventory risk, or cost exposure arise. By linking containers to SKU- and Inventory-level detail, Gnosis enables smarter planning, improved product availability, and more predictable business performance. Powered by continuously reconciled container Intelligence, Gnosis orchestrates exception management through configurable, low-code workflow and agentic AI across logistics, finance, and operation – reducing demurrage and detention, accelerating invoice resolution, and shortening goods-to-cash cycles. Headquartered In Charleston, SC, Gnosis serves global enterprises across retail, manufacturing, and logistics-intensive industries. Learn more at . Key Takeaways: How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting In “How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting”, Joe Lynch and Michael Rentz, Chief Revenue Officer at Gnosis Freight, discuss how operational-grade logistics data automatically simplifies complex carbon compliance. The Foundation of Scope 3 Reporting is "Sovereign Data": Accurate emissions reporting is impossible without high-fidelity operational data. Gnosis Freight utilizes "sovereign data"—logistics data they originate, validate, and structure directly from primary sources (ports, terminals, carriers, and railroads) rather than relying on third-party aggregators or high-level assumptions. If your operational data isn't audit-ready, your carbon reporting won't be either. Regulatory Shifts are Turning ESG from a Checkbox into a Mandate: With major regulatory updates like California's SB 253 looming in 2027, large enterprises (doing over $1B in revenue) that touch these key economies will be legally required to disclose their Scope 3 emissions. What was once a marketing slide about "valuing the environment" is rapidly transitioning into a strict, auditable corporate compliance requirement. Solving the Category 4 "Data Black Hole": Scope 3, Category 4 emissions (upstream transportation and distribution) are notoriously fragmented and difficult to track. By overlaying the GLEC (Global Logistics Emissions Council) framework directly onto their existing container tracking data, Gnosis calculates precise emissions across every single leg of the journey—ocean transit, port idling, rail, and final-mile drayage—without requiring manual spreadsheets or guesswork. Shippers Want a Unified Operating System, Not More "Point Solutions": Enterprise Beneficial Cargo Owners (BCOs) are experiencing software fatigue and actively moving away from single-use point solutions. Instead of buying a standalone carbon tracking tool, shippers want emissions data embedded directly into their daily workflow. Gnosis solves this by making carbon tracking a seamless "flip of a switch" within their broader Container Lifecycle Management (CLM) platform. Data Must Be "Operational-Grade" to Be Useful: In logistics, if data is only 80% accurate, it is functionally 0% useful because operators will simply bypass the system and default to manual website cross-checking. For emissions data to survive a financial or regulatory audit, it must be built on the same operational-grade, real-time milestones used to run daily supply chain execution. FinOps and Carbon Audits Share the Same DNA: There is a direct parallel between auditing freight invoices and auditing carbon emissions. Gnosis found that 85% of invoice discrepancies stem from incorrect operational milestones (like when a container was actually made available). By mastering these physical execution milestones, Gnosis can simultaneously spot billing overpayments in their FinOps suite and defend carbon calculations in an emissions audit. Build Solutions by Getting in the Trenches with Customers: Gnosis’s rapid growth—from navigating the pandemic's demurrage and detention (D&D) chaos to launching carbon tracking—has been entirely customer-driven. Rather than building flashy tech in a vacuum, their strategy is to deeply embed themselves with logistics managers, solve their immediate operational headaches first, and give them their time back to focus on strategic growth. Learn More About How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. 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The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation with Vinh Tran
07/09/2026
The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation with Vinh Tran
In “The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation”, and , Managing Director of MyBull Intelligent Machinery USA, discuss how prioritizing a facility's specific operational challenges over standard tech products leads to successful automation. About Vinh Tran is the Managing Director of MyBull Intelligent Machinery USA, where he spearheads the company’s North and South American strategy, commercialization, and customer deployment of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) for manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics. As the company's first U.S. employee, he built the domestic organization from the ground up, establishing its engineering, sales, after-sales support, and strategic partnerships. With over 30 years of leadership experience, including executive roles at Sensata Technologies and Continental, Tran has a proven track record in autonomous mobility, ADAS, and global business expansion across North America and Asia. Today, he focuses on accelerating industrial automation by delivering practical AMR solutions that enhance safety, productivity, and operational efficiency across the automotive, logistics, and heavy equipment sectors. Tran holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan, as well as an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from Wayne State University. About MyBull is a global innovator in autonomous robotics and intelligent logistics systems, dedicated to redefining efficiency in warehousing, manufacturing, and supply chain operations. With a focus on AI, machine learning, and modular design, MyBull empowers enterprises worldwide to achieve sustainable, future-ready automation. For more information, please visit . Key Takeaways: The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation In “The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation”, Joe Lynch and Vinh Tran, Managing Director of MyBull Intelligent Machinery USA, discuss how prioritizing a facility's specific operational challenges over standard tech products leads to successful automation. The "Product-First" Trap: Companies often fail in automation by forcing a specific product (like a forklift or tractor) into a facility without understanding the workflow first. MyBull advocates for a "problem-first" approach, focusing on the client's biggest operational bottlenecks before selecting the equipment. The Brains Behind the Robots: While MyBull utilizes partner chassis for its physical hardware, its core innovation is the Position Navigation System (PNS) kit. This standardized "brain" utilizes LiDAR, 3D SLAM mapping, and sensorics to make forklifts, tuggers, and flatbeds fully autonomous. Bridging the Indoor-to-Outdoor Gap: While indoor autonomous solutions are highly developed, the outdoor yard remains an operational blind spot. MyBull specializes in rugged, weatherproof AMRs built with large tires and enclosed compartments that seamlessly transition from warehouse Wi-Fi to outdoor cellular networks. A "Farmer" Mindset Over a "Hunter" Mindset: Drawing from his experience living in Japan, Tran emphasizes a gradual, nurturing approach to automation (akin to Kaizen). Rather than chasing instant revenue, true success comes from a slow, deliberate integration between human operators and machine processes. Labor Displacement, Not Replacement: Automation shouldn't be viewed purely as a headcount reduction tool. Instead, it eliminates mundane, hazardous, or extreme-weather tasks—such as driving a tugger in freezing snow—allowing human workers to upskill into higher-value roles like fleet management. Exposing Process Bottlenecks: Introducing automation acts as a forcing function that immediately exposes a facility's "lack of control" or fractured workflow visibility. Once a repeatable, structured robot is introduced, operational inefficiencies and shifting bottlenecks become clearly visible. Delivering Outcomes, Not Just Technology: The ultimate goal of warehouse automation is not just owning high-tech machinery, but delivering tangible operational outcomes and maximizing throughput (the number of products successfully moving out the back door). Learn More About The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: , , , , , , , , , ,
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