In this episode I talk to Michiel, the founder and CTO of Coco Pallet, a company that produces pallets from used coconuts in Asia and Latin America. Michiel came up with the concept when he realized there was a problem concerning the huge amount of waste of wood that goes into producing pallets. Coco Pallet's vision is to ship 400 million pallets per year, and their plan is to build 5 factories by 2022 to help with that goal.
Coco Pallet offers a lot of benefits to the different entities in the supply chain industry. The coconut pallets are single use and one way, and they follow compliance for export regulations. They are mostly used for dry products such as books. The coconuts are bought from farmiculture waste. Since the coconuts have no value for the farmers, the coconuts are extremely cheap to buy, which in turn makes coco pallets cheaper than the wooden alternative. Coco Pallet uses in house glue and their own tools to build the pallets, making them 100% biodegradable and therefore allowing farmers to use the pallets to improve soil quality.
Coco Pallet is part of a circular economy; they solve several problems at once and leave no waste. Farmers are provided with an extra income, importers get to lower their CO2 consumption and don’t have to pay extra fees for wood, and best of all, fewer trees are cut down. In fact, Michiel says that every factory they build saves 500,000 trees per year. Their success has led them to build a large factory in the Philippines and they will be opening 4 to 5 more factories in Asia in the next few years. Their ethical and profitable business model means there is a huge opportunity for impact investment.
In this episode we discuss:
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In this episode, I talk to Tom Williams, Group Vice President, Consumer Products at BNSF Railway and Dr. Noel Hacegaba, COO of the Port of Long Beach, both board members of the Intermodal Association of North America. They each have many years of experience working in the intermodal industry.
Both Tom and Noel agree that the major challenge of the supply chain industry is the increasing sophistication that comes with working with different industry partners and shipping lines. As disruption meets innovation, customer expectations are also changing, their demands shifting from brick and mortar to more demanding e-commerce. Customers expect supply chain companies to make delivery processes fast, reliable and safe, which means increasing the efficiency of all coordinated shipments. IANA helps find solutions by bringing together industry leaders and placing education initiatives for everyone working with these logistics.
This fall is the IANA Expo event, a must-attend event for anyone working in the supply chain industry. It’s the largest gathering of supply chain leaders and stakeholders, including attendees such as Bill Strauss, Jeff Heller and companies such as Armstrong & Associates and SeaIntelligence Consulting. This is a great networking opportunity with around 1,800 expected attendees, over 125 exhibitors and more than 8 hours of exhibit time. IANA Expo is especially valuable thanks to the education sessions included in the schedule. Discussions on the future of supply chain, finding streamlined solutions and answering the big questions will take place during those several days. For those interested in helping shape the industry they work for, IANA is an event you definitely need to mark on your calendar!
In this episode we discuss:
Resources and links mentioned:
In this episode we talk to Demo, a Supply Chain Business Strategist at Logistics Services Panama. Demo lives in Panama, a country that has been a logistics hub for over 500 years and is a ‘one size fits all’ solution for global supply chains.
Panama is a unique logistics hub because of its logistics assets. It has the Panama canal, allowing ships from all over the world to gain access. Panama also has a world class port system with 4 ports being developed, essentially supporting both the Pacific and Atlantic ocean. Panama has the biggest free trade zone in the southern hemisphere and charges no tax on export or on sale. This means huge savings in time and cost for businesses doing trade in that area. As Demo says, the logistics are much more efficient; what would take several weeks in Miami, takes 4 days in Panama.
Doing business in Panama has some great advantages, as the country serves up to 30 countries and manages complex markets consisting of over 600 million people. Although Demo works mostly with big companies, he explains that Panama also has opportunities for SMEs thanks to its free trade zone airport and higher flexibility. The Supply Chain Forum happening in August is an excellent place to meet people who have experience doing trade in Panama - from SMEs to large corporations, everyone is welcome!
In this episode we discuss:
Resources and links mentioned:
WISC Series Sponsored by HULFT
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Providing Disaster Relief Assistance Through Logistics
In this episode we talk to Kathy, executive director of the American Logistics Aid Network, an organization that provides supply chain assistance to disaster relief organizations and other non-profits. Kathy has worked in the supply chain and IT industry for 20 years and joined ALAN in 2010 when she took an interest in supply chain and emergency management, and started working on efficient coordination of logistics activities during disasters.
The logistics industry is instrumental to disaster relief - over 60% of spending goes into logistics. Making sure people have shelter, food and water is much more complicated than it seems. Logistics experts can provide their expertise and knowledge in order to do good, and this in turn can save a huge amount of money; Kathy uses an example where an NGO saved over a quarter of a million dollars just from 15 hours of work from a logistics expert.
The most inspiring part of Kathy’s journey has been the opportunity to see the good that companies do during disaster. Disasters are happening all the time, and although this is painful to experience, peoples’ desire to do good and be a part of something positive stands out. Anyone who works in the supply chain and logistics industry has a huge opportunity to save lives and make an impact, just by offering expertise. Kathy hopes to keep serving ALAN and provide better tools for businesses and NGOs to collaborate during disasters.
In this episode we discuss:
Resources and links mentioned:
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Pain Points defined: A pain point is a specific problem that prospective customers of your business are experiencing. In other words, you can think of pain points as problems, plain and simple. Like any problem, customer pain points are as diverse and varied as your prospective customers themselves.
Today, Hugo Fuentes Diaz, Partner at The OWL Solutions joins me on the show to talk about how to identify your supply chain pain points and the next steps on what to do next to simplify your supply chain performance.
In this episode, Hugo and I will talk about how OWL solutions came about, how they help organizations to simplify their supply chain performance, why cross functional metrics are important to supply chain, most common pain points, how to empower your teams to focus and execute once the challenges have been identified and the results that you should expect.
In this episode we discuss:
I recently caught up with Marie-Chantal Savoy, VP Strategy and Communications at Logistec at the JOC Canada Trade Conference.
Marie is very passionate about the industry, about her company as well as the topic of diversity and talent.
Listen in for my exclusive interview with Marie...
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When I worked for a 3PL selling logistics services (ocean freight, air freight, customs, warehousing, cross dock and some trucking) the biggest question I would get from potential clients was "What makes you different from the other service providers?" Only 5 years ago, freight forwarders were struggling to figure that out and what that would like moving forward.
Today, I am speaking with John Cheringal, CEO of Axis Int'l and from what it looks like they have figured out what sets them apart from the rest of the pack which has not been an easy task.
In this episode, John joins to me to talk about what challenges are service providers facing the industry, what sets them apart from their competition, why their strategy works, how they partner with their customers for success, a typical ROI their customers can expect from working with them. Plus John lets us in on what keeps him up at night as the owner of a logistics company and how their future includes reducing their carbon footprint.
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Resources and links mentioned:
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I recently caught up with Grace after our panel at the JOC Canada Trade conference in Toronto about diversity and the future of the workforce.
Here is what Grace had to say....
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is an area of computer science that emphasizes the creation of intelligent machines that work and react like humans. Some of the activities computers with artificial intelligence are designed for include: Speech recognition.
Recently voted one of the 20 most innovative companies to watch in 2019, Algo is here to make sure you are ready for the AI revolution that is coming to a business near you. ARE YOU READY?
In this episode, Amjad Hussain, CEO of Algo joins to me to talk about how they got started and why they are working with companies to help them get ready for the AI revolution. He will walk us through a real life example of how his clients are benefiting from working with Algo, what you should expect when introducing AI, how they set themselves apart from their competitors and finally Amjad gives us his half crazy intuitive prediction for the next 5 years of supply chain.
For Subscribers only! I recently caught up with Tom Szaky, CEO of Terracyle at the SCMA National Conference in Montreal!
He joined me to talk about how we can re-think waste in our supply chains and use circular supply chain in helping to reduce waste without massive corporate change.
Plus, with such a complex supply chain Tom also talks about their biggest supply chain challenges and how they maintain consistency of their inbound supply chain with so many moving parts.
Join me for this exclusive interview and for more information about Terracycle and their global impact, visit them at https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/
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Everyone's journey is different and as we have seen from this series the path is never straight. Brenda says that being yourself, collaboration and stop labeling are all things to consider on your journey to success.
In this episode, Brenda Santoro Head of Global Trade at Silicon Valley Bank joins me in my women in supply chain series to talk about what her career has meant to her and why she loves what she does. Brenda shares her story, the exciting things she is working on, real life examples of challenges she has faced and overcome plus so much more, including her advice to start ups in supply chain and what the #1 thing is that women should do in their career.
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Traditional forwarders will soon have little choice but to go digital and that is what Kontainers is hoping for. They are the dominant player in helping to make digitizing a reality for most forwarders and creating new and innovative ways for everyone to win.
In this episode, Graham Parker CEO of Kontainers takes us on a journey of how he got started in the industry building a successful forwarding company that led to the creation of Kontainers. Graham will share how they are helping to digitize the industry and announce some exciting news about a new initiative they are launching to help small to mid sized forwarders. The future of forwarding is in digitization, collaboration, consolidation and marketplaces that will ONLY have room for the digital. You wont want to miss this episode as we take you into the future of the industry.
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If you aren't familiar with FreightWaves you should be, Recently listed on CNBC's 2018 upstart 100 list as the brightest, most intriguing young start ups promising to become one of the great companies of tomorrow, FreightWaves is a company to watch. In less than a year, FreightWaves grew to the second most trafficked news site in all of freight, globally.
In this episode, Craig Fuller CEO of FreightWaves joins me to talk about the story behind the brand. Craig's journey started in the family business and as his passion for the industry grew so did his vision for the future. Join me as he tells us the story behind the brand, gives us a glimpse into his journey to success, Craig also predicts the future of supply chain and logistics as well as the reasons behind starting BITA (Blockchain Assoc).
Hello Listeners!
In this EXCLUSIVE Women in Supply Chain episode, I am live at JDA ICON 2019 and I sit down with CMO, Karen Leavitt of Locus Robotics.
Her journey in technology since the 70s has recently lead her into supply chain industry and she is excited to help drive innovation in this space. Karen talks about how mentorship and collaboration helps to overcome challenges and creates allies that will help amplify messages and encourage others to find their voice.
Karen ends with some advice for the next generation that includes a nugget about career success - find different perspectives and really look to see how you can incorporate them into your career
Enjoy!
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A tariff is a tax imposed by a government on goods and services imported from other countries that serves to increase the price and make imports less desirable, or at least less competitive, versus domestic goods and services. Tariffs are generally introduced as a means of restricting trade from particular countries or reducing the importation of specific types of goods and services.
These days there are so many rules and regulations to moving products from country to country and with the US leading the most influential changes we have seen in a long time, many are scrambling to keep up.
In this episode, Graham Robins CEO of Borderbuddy and my resident expert is back to talk about this game changing subject rocking industries and the business world right now (right Andy Polk - FDRA?). Graham talks to me about asking the question why, being intentional, some of the biggest mistakes you will make with your tariff database, what your responsibility is and what you can do today to get a handle on costs and compliance.
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"Go with your gut!" is the mantra Michelle is truly living by, from following her gut to Boston to placing hundreds of hard working supply chain professionals on their career paths.
Michelle also loves what she does and encourages everyone to live your passion because it is what drives you, it is what will bring opportunity and help you to live your best life.
In this episode I will introduce you to Michelle Devevo, VP of Talent acquisition in Part 18 of my Women in Supply Chain Series. Michelle tells us the story of how she moved to Boston on a whim, how she was recruited for her current position, how she has helped hundreds of supply chain professionals find their way, why employer branding is so important and why Linkedin should be your best friend as an employer and as talent. You will be inspired by this story of passion, instinct and pure will.
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Traditionally Supply Chain has been viewed as a cost centre because the majority of a business' cost are associated with sourcing, procurement, transportation, distribution and last mile. That view is changing and supply chain professionals are now viewing it as an investment centre but that doesn't mean we stop trying to keep the costs down.
How do you do keep the costs in check? Some are diligent internally, some are so cash rich it gets over looked and most keep the company in check by hiring the experts like Spend Management Experts.
In this episode, Melissa Runge, VP of analytical solutions takes us on a journey of collaboration, winning together in the spend column, why your company needs to partner with someone like SME and how Spend Management Experts keeps your customer experience in mind and that is what sets them apart from their competition.
Questions I Ask:
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
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The industry is bursting with new ideas, new innovation and start ups seem to be popping up everywhere. But, what exactly does it mean to be a supply chain start up?
Supply Chain is a Trillion dollar industry, that is complex, intoxicating, fascinating and has been stuck in the traditional. Most can see the need the need for change, some vets are looking to change the way we do business and some newcomers are looking to change the world but what are the key ingredients to finding success as a start up in supply chain.
In this episode, Nino Lo Lacono, a tech entrepreneur from Italy is here to talk about creating new and disruptive innovations in supply chain. Nino and I will talk about the challenges of starting a business in supply chain, suggestions of how to navigate, The importance of negotiation and passion, as well as the future of supply chain. Share this episode with other supply chain professionals, your teams and your colleagues!
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What if I told you something BIG was coming to the supply chain community, something that would bring together real people talking about real supply chain topics?
Today, I am revealing one of the secret projects I have been working on for my YouTube channel called "The SC, Supply Chain TV". It is a cross between "The View" and "Sportscenter" where we will debate the hot topics in supply chain today.
In this episode, you will get to know Audrey Ross and Leah Goold-Haws my co-hosts for the show and then we will be joined by a different guest each episode. We are setting the stage for the first episode due out the end of April and giving you a sneak peak into what to expect from the show! They may also just give us their half crazy, counter-intuitive prediction for what the next 5 years in the industry will look like!
Questions I Ask:
Hello Listeners!
This is the last Exclusive from TPM 2019, in this brief episode I am asking Peder Winther, Global Head of OceanFreight at Panalpina your most pressing questions that you sent to me on Linkedin back in February.
Find out what he thinks of Uber Freight and Flexport and how freight forwarders are looking at innovation in the industry.
Enjoy!
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There are a lot of new innovations and platforms to help you with various supply chain functions but where do you start and how do you find the right one for your team?
Mercado Labs is shining light into the dark corners of supply chain, their platform speaks "fluent import"' and has been designed by International trade experts for supply chain professionals and their teams.
In this episode, I am speaking to Rob about his new venture called Mercado Labs and we will take you on a journey of leading innovation, bringing sourcing, procurement and logistics together in a collaborative environment and what you should consider when looking to partner with a new innovative platform like Mercado Labs. Find out more about how to find the right solution and platform for your organization.
Hello Listeners!
You asked and John answered!
I recently caught up with John McCauley, VP of Transportation and Logistics at Cargill, a global player in the shipping industry at TPM 2019 to ask him your questions!
Back in February you posted the questions you would have if you had 5 minutes with a VP of a large BCO, pay attention because your question might have been asked!
Enjoy!
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"What do you mean exactly?" is a very powerful question when you are trying to find your voice and gain the knowledge you need to succeed. In my newest Women in Supply Chain Episode you will meet Denise MacDonell, CTO at Flash Global and a powerhouse woman in the industry who believes that this question will contribute to your success.
It takes a lot of self discipline and flexing that muscle to find your voice in technology and supply chain, so besides asking questions Denise did exactly that and to this day flexing her discipline muscle also helps with work life balance and keeping her on track.
Join me in this episode to learn more about the Denises' journey to success, how she found her voice, real life struggles and how she overcame them, how Denise keeps from getting overwhelmed by doing mental health checks and so much more! In part 17 of my Women in Supply Chain series, you will laugh, learn and be inspired throughout this episode.
Hello listeners!
Remember a while back on listeners corner you commented with questions you have for the CEO of an ocean carrier. Well, I had the chance to briefly chat with Jeremy Nixon, CEO of ONE and asked him a lot of your most pressing questions.
7 minute Sundays are exclusive episodes that I will be sharing sporadically as I travel the world and speak with some of the least accessible figures in supply chain!
Enjoy!
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Only 6 percent of the largest ocean carriers and freight forwarders have end-to-end online booking capabilities. Some 38 percent of the former and 5 percent of the latter do not even offer online quotes, while most of those that do merely log an online request for a quote, which has to be followed up by e-mail or a phone call, often a day or more later.
So what happens when you have been so focused on your own internal innovation that when you look up to implement with the others in your supply chain, they are not even close to keeping up?
In this episode, Graham Robins of Borderbuddy, my resident industry expert is back to debate this topic with me. We talk about the consequences of moving faster then your chain, we share some possible solutions and wonder if collaboration could be one of those answers and we share insights into what will happen to service providers if they don't get with the times and up their game.