This is the third episode of our mini-series in partnership with Quickbase.
Last week in Episode 2, “Control,” I was joined by Alex Pederson to talk all about the solar industry. We discussed the increasing importance of generating renewable energy sources; the challenges of ensuring efficiency and connectivity, whilst meeting high demand; the power of low-code development in complex industries; and exactly how Quickbase can centralize scattered workflows to help scale your operations quickly, safely and securely.
Today in Episode 3, “Connect,” I’m joined by Jacob MacIntrye to explore the complex world of construction; the challenges of keeping projects on time and budget, amidst supply chain and labor disruption; the importance of building stakeholder trust; and exactly how Quickbase can equip your team with real-time information to streamline processes, ensure compliance and improve communication.
[02.05] An introduction to Jacob, his background and experience in the construction industry.
“With that job comes a lot of software… whether you like it or not – and a lot of folks don’t like it!”
[03.24] How Jacob discovered Quickbase, why he decided to join them, and his passion for combining his industry experience with Quickbase technology to help others.
“Difficulties in the supply chain come down to difficulties in the communication – when you want to track pipe, what you’re really wanting to do is track the information and communication between the parties.”
[08.56] From supply of materials to rising costs, a closer look at the challenges the construction industry is facing right now.
[12.20] The impact of fines and compliance violations, and Jacob’s thoughts on how the industry could start to better predict project delays.
“The planners need better tools: a lot of times you’ll find them just tracking things in spreadsheets. They’ve got their major systems but the only other thing they have are spreadsheets, so there’s nothing in the middle to give that robust connection.”
[16.10] A closer look at Quickbase’s Construction Management Software, what it does and how it helps to address key industry challenges.
[19.47] The types of customer that Quickbase works with.
“We’ve been around a long time, so we have owner-operators that have 10 employees, and we work with half of the fortune 100 - we have a huge range of customers that need that flexible middle.”
[21.41] The complexity of documentation and data management, and how Quickbase achieves the balance of being flexible, but also robust enough to house and manage complex, ever-changing data in a secure and easy to use way.
“When people get nervous about where their data goes, I always remind them ‘well, it’s all going into Excel right now!’ … People are taking data out of their ERP, dumping it into Excel and sharing it with people – that’s not secure or governed in any way, but people seem to overlook that!”
[25.11] Quickbase’s approach to trust and collaboration, and the importance of building long-term relationships.
[27.41] A customer case study detailing how Quickbase software was able to connect multiple stakeholders to achieve project success.
[30.46] The next steps for working with Quickbase, or giving their software a try.
[31.57] Jacob’s thoughts on where he sees the most challenge and opportunity in the future, as the construction industry continues to grow.
“The planning and sourcing of materials is only going to get more difficult – the pandemic gave us a window into how interconnected our world is and the big challenges there aren’t over.”
[35.30] Jacob’s key takeaway when it comes to the importance of connecting people, workflows and materials when it comes to project success.
Head over to Quickbase’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Quickbase and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
If you missed it, check out episode 1 of our Quickbase mini-series, in which Peter Rifkin takes a closer look at people: the workers on the front line of the industry right now; the challenges; the opportunities; and exactly how Quickbase can optimize and automate to connect people and workflow together.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
It’s episode 20 of Blended: I’m joined by another fantastic panel of guests and we’re talking about the business benefits of DEI. Previously on the show, we’ve talked to underrepresented groups and specific communities – whether it be women, people of color, trans folks – and, as part of our discussions, we’ve heard them passionately share their stories and illustrate why, of course, they’re such an integral part of successful teams. So we thought it was time to really put a focus on that and dedicate a whole show to the importance of embracing DEI in your business.
Today, our guests will be exploring what DEI means to them; sharing their own personal experiences; reflecting on issues such as creating safe spaces, ongoing education and authenticity; and discussing the importance of supplier diversity.
[00.49] Introductions to our Blended panelists.
“DEI encompasses the relationship, philosophy and culture of acknowledging, embracing, supporting and accepting those of all racial, sexual, gender, religious and socio-economic backgrounds (among other differentiators).” Gennifer
[06.41] The group discusses DEI: what it means; why it’s important; the challenges; and real-life examples of who’s doing it right and who’s doing it wrong.
“Companies that adapt their strategies and their policies around the different groups of people they have working in their organization and don’t treat it just like a blanket initiative, and really get down into the details of who their people are and what challenges they face... that’s when you can really look at whether your environment is inclusive or not.” Shay
“It’s not about just the [awareness] month – because I’m going to be black every single day, not just in February!” Asheley
[01.10.21] The panel takes a closer look at both the obstacles and benefits of supplier diversity.
[01.20.19] The group sum-up their learnings from today’s discussion.
“It’s a way of living, it’s a collective thing. If I want people to know my culture, I also need to show my culture… if I know my team isn’t super aware, it’s also my job to educate.” Amani
You can connect with Shay, Asheley, Gennifer and Amani over on LinkedIn.
If you found this episode interesting, you might enjoy Episode 1,What’s In A Word or Episode 7, Equality vs Diversity: What’s The Difference?.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
We are absolutely loving showcasing our incredible range of live shows! Last month, in episode 257, we put the spotlight on Action Items with Dyci Sfregola. Last week in episode 262, it was Mercado’s turn with their show, First Things First. And, today, we’re bringing you Coming In Hot, with Abby Baird.
The industry is always changing, so what’s in store for the next generation of supply chain professionals? Supply chain management student, Abby, brings her passion and enthusiasm for the future of supply chain every fourth Thursday at 12.30pm EST.
In this episode, Abby is joined by special guest Lydia O'Neal, supply chain and logistics reporter at The Wall Street Journal, to talk all about the memefication of supply chain; how supply chain management is being shared; and the popularization of the industry.
[07.43] An introduction to special guest Lydia O'Neal, her background and how she transitioned to reporting on supply chain.
[10.20] How Lydia came to write Sorry, the Global Supply Chain Ate My Homework, and her thoughts on the memefication of supply chain.
“I’ve heard, anecdotally, that professors are seeing more interest from younger students, even in high school!”
[13.23] How the memeifcation of supply chain, and the increase in supply chain content on social media, has impacted people and businesses.
“Another effect of this has been the visibility of all the people, the workers in the warehouses, the truckers and on cargo ships, because it’s previously been this invisible magic of your stuff getting to your door.”
[15.36] Lydia’s reflections on whether the newfound popularity of supply chain in social media is actually helping to teach people what supply chain really is.
[18.09] The value to be found in greater supply chain exposure and increased knowledge.
“It’s great to bring in a more diverse workforce, in management especially – I hear over and over again that this is the domain of old white guys… so to go on TikTok and find young women explaining it… it’s great!”
[20.12] How fresh supply chain content is moving away from jargon and a business-heavy approach towards making the topic fun and engaging.
“The over-arching goal was to make it fun!”
[22.29] How new supply chain content is reaching such a broad audience.
“It’s exploded and people have appropriated it into their own jokes.”
[25.42] The opportunity for businesses to use the memefication of supply chain to their advantage, particularly when it comes to customer expectation and experience.
[29.41] Lydia’s thoughts on whether increased memeification impacts supply chain professionals in their day-to-day roles.
[31.39] What Lydia has learned, what excites her about supply chain and her future.
You can connect with Abby or Lydia over on LinkedIn, or check out Lydia's article, Sorry, the Global Supply Chain Ate My Homework.
You can find previous episodes of Coming In Hot with Abby Baird over on YouTube, on our live show page, or you can check out other Let’s Talk Supply Chain podcasts HERE.
This is the second episode of our mini-series in partnership with Quickbase.
Last week in Episode 1, I was joined by Peter Rifken to take a closer look at people. We talked about the workers on the front line of the industry right now, the challenges, the opportunities, and exactly how Quickbase can optimize and automate to connect people and workflow together.
Today, I’m joined by Alex Pederson to talk all about the solar industry. We’ll be discussing the increasing importance of generating renewable energy sources, the challenges of ensuring efficiency and connectivity, while meeting high demand, the power of low-code development in complex industries, and exactly how Quickbase can centralize scattered workflows to help scale your operations quickly, safely and securely.
[01.46] An introduction to Alex, his background and role at Quickbase.
“I ran into Quickbase… and it blew my mind – how customizable it was, how flexible the platform was and what you could do with it.”
[03.05] A snapshot of the main challenges facing the solar industry right now.
[05.23] The huge range of stakeholders involved in solar projects, how they have typically been connecting and the positive impact of collaboration and bridging those gaps.
“Most of the time, customers are emailing an Excel doc back and forth, or even shooting text messages.”
[07.24] The popularity of Excel, and how we get people out of spreadsheets.
“If you’re using Excel, you’re going to absolutely love using Quickbase – it’s a very easy transition over and… you now have that ability to customize roles and permissions, governance, dashboards… everything that’s important for you and your role.”
[11.03] A closer look at Quickbase’s Solar Management Software, how the solution can benefit solar brands, and address their key challenges.
“Wherever there are gaps in your current process, that’s where Quickbase can fit in and be that agility layer.”
[14.09] Keeping on top of the moving parts in complex solar projects.
“It really comes down to making sure you have the correct data... then you’re able to start to see trends and make predictions.”
[17.00] How to better predict project delays, amidst industry-wide disruption, and improve communication.
[18.05] The importance of control and custom solutions when it comes to efficiency and scaling at speed.
“If you think about needing a software that fits for your project, or fitting your projects in to a software, there’s a difference between the two.”
[19.00] How Quickbase software has helped customers save weeks on their installation times, and what we can learn from other countries, like Africa, that are running successful solar programs.
[21.15] The sustainability trends to look out for, and the future of solar technology.
[22.42] Alex’s key takeaway around the importance of control when it comes to efficiency, productivity and simplifying complex processes.
Head over to Quickbase’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Alex and Quickbase in order to keep up to date with the latest. Head to LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or YouTube.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today we’re featuring one of our amazing live shows on Let's Talk Supply Chain. Last month in episode 257, we put the spotlight on Action Items with Dyci Sfregola and now it’s the turn of First Things First with Mercado!
We live in a consumer driven world. $2.5T worth of products are imported annually, representing 15% of U.S. GDP. It’s time companies become fully connected to the people who make and move our products, and look for ways to improve the way we plan, buy, and move them around the world. Join Mercado CEO Rob Garrison and special guests every second Tuesday of the month at 12pm ET as they explore the future of the supply chain in 2022 and beyond.
And this episode is all about the first, and last, mile.
Rob is joined by special guest Edward Hertzman, Executive Vice President at Fairchild Media and Founder and President of Sourcing Journal, to talk all about ensuring you have a first mile strategy; the growing importance of traceability; building more equal supplier relationships; and the evolution of the modern first mile industry.
[06.16] The “fastest five” – from carrier profits to a furniture brand building its own vessel, Rob takes a look at five standout industry headlines.
[11.59] An introduction to special guest Edward Hertzman, his background and how he came to found Sourcing Journal.
[14.57] Rob and Edward discuss how, and why, the final mile has evolved so quickly, whilst the first mile has remained arguably static; Amazon’s role in these changes; the importance of an integrated strategy; and the impact of COVID .
“When you talk about the last mile, Amazon has completely changed the game… they made that part of the shopping experience.”
“We can no longer take our upstream, first mile relationships for granted and we need a strategy – it’s not one or the other, it’s the first mile, middle mile and last mile.”
[22.33] A closer look at sourcing, tier two and three suppliers and the importance of traceability.
“We have a regulatory responsibility to make sure we know where our products are being made.”
[26.37] Edward’s thoughts on whether the first mile is an opportunity for businesses to do some good, and better tackle their commitments to people and planet.
“We need to think about how we can share risk – it can’t just be that the retailers win and the factories lose.”
[31.57] Rob’s reflections on the ‘modern first mile industry.’
“We’re due for the next evolution of this industry.”
Head over to Mercado’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you. You can also connect with Mercado and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, or you can connect with Rob.
Discover trending industry news over on Sourcing Journal’s website, or connect with Edward over on LinkedIn.
You can find previous episodes of First Things First with Mercado over on the live show page, or you can check out other Let’s Talk Supply Chain podcasts HERE.
This is the first episode in our brand new four-part mini-series in partnership with Quickbase.
Quickbase helps customers see, connect and control complex projects that reshape our world. Whether it’s raising a skyscraper or coordinating vaccine rollouts, the no-code software platform allows business users to custom-fit solutions to the way they work – using information from across the systems they already have.
Today in Episode 1, See, we’ll be taking a closer look at people: the workers on the front line of the industry right now; the challenges; the opportunities; and exactly how Quickbase can optimize and automate to connect people and workflow together.
[02.01] A reminder of who Quickbase are and what they do; and an update on what’s changed since they were last on the show.
[04.01] From labor shortages to staff retention, the main challenges that businesses are facing when it comes to front-line workers, and how those challenges have changed from just a couple of years ago.
“Frontline workers are having challenges, and the folks that are trying to hire, retain, train and continuously upskill those workers are also having a huge challenge… COVID has put a huge spotlight on the need to improve some of the processes that are touching turnover.”
[06.51] Compliance, how job site safety has changed dramatically since COVID, and the key priorities in the area right now.
“COVID has thrown a shocker at all of us and said ‘hey, you need to be able to adapt to rules, regulations and requirements that never existed’ – and you may not have a tool to track these 10 new requirements, or capture the information you didn’t capture before.”
[10.14] Connectivity, and why it’s so important to change the way we think about data in order to get our teams out of Excel.
“People will always gravitate towards the path of least resistance to solve their problems.”
[13.50] A closer look at the Quickbase software, and how it’s designed with front-line workers in mind.
"The challenge we see most often is that no team is exactly like the last one… they really need a combination of technology that is safe, secure and robust, but can then be moulded like Play Doh for the front line environment, that allows for both starting fast, and then scaling.”
[17.45] Peter’s reflections around automation, how to get the most out of it, and how that works with Quickbase.
“It’s dangerous to want to jump full steam ahead into automation… it needs to be coupled with strategy.”
[23.31] Process improvement, and how you can achieve a healthy full circle model built around Quickbase.
“Momentum is what starts to change culture.”
[29.22] The impact on your business and bottom line when you successfully pull the threads of good data, transparency, collaboration and process improvement together.
[32.44] A case study looking at how Quickbase helped a key customer to bridge systems and achieve connectivity and visibility, without impacting legacy systems.
[36.17] What businesses need to consider and prioritize when it comes to people, and the changes we can expect to see from Quickbase in the future.
“As a business, are you stepping back to reassess how work can be done in a post COVID time?”
Head over to Quickbase’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Quickbase and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
If you want to dive deeper into what Quickbase is all about, why not listen to episode 224, where Peter Rifken, Principal Solutions Consultant at Quickbase, chats all about the company: what they do; the importance of operational agility; and the power to be found in unlocking the potential of your people. You can also read Peter's blog, where he talks about how to eliminate disconnected teams and increase supply chain visibility.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain, I’m joined by experienced and strategic logistics operations professional, Maggie Petrovic.
A business and communications graduate, Maggie honed her skills at global third-party logistics provider Coyote Logistics, gaining deep knowledge and experience across operations, sales, strategy and customer experience. As a leader at Emerge, she’s helping to save shippers time and money by operationalizing game-changing products.
Today Maggie will be talking to us about her career so far; her talent for operations strategy; the excitement of start-up culture; and Mom guilt. Plus, she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in the industry, as well as her words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.
This Women in Supply Chain feature was made possible by our sponsor, Emerge. As a company focused on empowering and growing meaningful supply chain relationships, Emerge is proud to sponsor Women in Supply Chain. Through its freight procurement platform, Emerge offers solutions that enhance the spot and contract procurement process, enabling shippers and carriers to make more strategic decisions.
[06.24] Maggie’s background, her field hockey college scholarship, and her reflections on how a sporting mindset correlates so well with business, and supply chain.
[14.02] How Maggie went from a Business and Communications degree to a successful career in supply chain.
“It sounded interesting… it was an industry that was growing after the recession and not shrinking… I got an offer from Coyote Logistics, and never looked back!”
[16.32] Maggie’s time at Coyote Logistics, learning on the job, and the experience she gained from having a ‘just say yes’ mentality.
“When I think about the roles and opportunities that stick out, it was really just me saying yes to anything and everything that was going to give me an opportunity to learn more and put me out of my comfort zone.”
[18.28] Maggie’s experience of living and working in Europe, and what she learned.
[21.15] Maggie’s role as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Emerge.
“I truly believe that what we’re doing at Emerge is game changing – we’re building products that the industry really needs”
[22.12] The impact of COVID on procurement, and the resulting trends and learnings.
[24.02] Maggie’s experience of Mom guilt, and how she balances work and motherhood.
“I certainly had Mom guilt going back to work after maternity leave. I thought: ‘my baby is so small, how can I leave her all day’? and that was so hard.”
[26.39] Why Maggie loves the culture and benefits that come from working in a start-up, and her experiences, as a woman, of working in those environments.
“Start-ups can be extremely lucrative and awesome opportunities for everyone. At a start-up, you have better access to having a seat at the table, having your voice heard and ideas implemented.”
[29.30] How saying yes and trying something new in business helped Maggie to find her voice and grow in confidence.
[31.35] Maggie’s work ethic, the difference between advocates and mentors and why it’s important to have both.
[34.16] What the future holds for Maggie, and for Emerge.
[34.53] Maggie’s words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.
You can connect with Maggie over on LinkedIn.
If you enjoyed finding out more about female leaders at Emerge, why not check out episode 255, where I'm joined by Mardi Tegmeyer, Customer Success Manager at Emerge. And if you're interested in hearing more about balancing motherhood with a successful career - and why we need to talk about it - head over to episode 234 to hear what Anne Robinson has to say.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by Prompt, a customer-focused logistics software business who are on a mission to unlock your digitization and automation potential – to drive cost savings and revenue improvements – without changing your underlying software platforms.
Prompt helps supply chain companies to easily expand the functionality of their Transportation Management Systems without changing or replacing any of their existing software. As the only logistics technology company with all the major global data privacy and security certifications, Prompt work with more than a third of the top 25 freight forwarders, providing visibility, automation, and payment processing solutions that all safely and seamlessly connect back to their system, or systems, of choice.
Today Kai Timmermann, Chief Operating Officer at Prompt, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; the biggest challenges in logistics today; putting customers at the core of their solutions; and the importance of visibility and data integration to the future of logistics.
[07.06] Prompt’s origin story, and how Rob and Kai’s background with Lading and CargoWise led them to develop this new software-based brand.
“We’re about orienting for real outcomes – we’re not excited by jargon… we just want to get the job done.”
[10.38] An overview of Prompt – what they do, and how they help their customers.
“For users, we’re about moving time and attention… and from a management perspective, they benefit from that users time and attention, but now they also have process consistency.”
[12.12] From managing talent to process inefficiency, a look at some of the key challenges Prompt’s customers are facing right now.
“To win the talent war – which is a big deal these days – you want to get people out of that menial work.”
[15.49] A closer look at Prompt’s Automation solution: what it does, how can it help, the benefits – and Kai’s thoughts on the rising importance of automation within supply chain technology.
[19.09] What visibility means to Prompt, and how their business intelligence solutions can help to address core inefficiencies.
“There are a million people doing it, and visibility can be used to describe a huge span of things… when we talk about our Prompt visibility tool, it’s about better data and access to the information inside a company’s ERP.”
[22.02] Prompt’s two-sided integration, how it helps to facilitate improved visibility, and how they work to expand a company’s TMS without impacting their existing software.
[25.54] A closer look at Prompt’s evolving Payments solution.
[26.46] Kai’s reflections on why we should be paying so much attention to issues like visibility and data integration; the difference it’s going to make, both on a business and on an industry level; and Kai’s predictions for when global logistics is finally going to return to normal.
“Logistics technology has gotten so fragmented… our customers have invested heavily in freight management systems and they’ve got a strategic imperative to close the gap with digital freight forwarders – so we’re trying to provide the capabilities to close that gap.”
[29.44] Why successful implementation is on an equal footing to the technology itself, and why customers are so important to Prompt.
[32.01] The ideal client for Prompt.
[32.53] Two key case studies, illustrating how Prompt Automate helped one customer to reduce a proposed integration time of five months down to three to four weeks, and another customer benefit from financial savings of around 40%, on average.
[35.41] The future for Prompt.
Head over to Prompt's website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Prompt and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, or you can connect with Kai on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
It’s episode 19 of Blended: I’m joined by another amazing panel of guests and we’re talking about sexual harassment. It’s another tough subject because the reality is, so many people, particularly women, have a story. And we need to tell those stories if we’re going to expose just how prevalent this problem is.
Today, our guests will be discussing exactly what sexual harassment means and where and when it happens; sharing their own personal experiences; reflecting on the differences between harassment and assault; and the panel will be sharing their advice for tackling the issue and creating safer workplaces.
[01.37] Introductions to our Blended panellists.
“Young adults and children need to learn about boundaries: what they mean, how to uphold them and how to resolve a conflict around them.” Christina
“There’s been a clash of generational understanding and generational behaviour.” Charlene
[06.15] The group discuss the basics around sexual harassment: what it means, where and how it can happen, the behaviors it can include and the difference between sexual harassment and sexual assault.
“It’s not about sexual desire… it’s the power that's yielded through that harassment.” Carl
“When you think about what predated ideas about what sexual harassment would be defined as, it also came with these predisposed character traits. “ Nathalie
[55.14] The panel share their own personal experiences of sexual harassment, and the impact of those experiences.
“It’s the translation from that Mad Men era where everything was pictured as acceptable to now where everything is accessible… now the attitude has met the opportunity.” Carl
“As soon as my relationship status changed, I became a target for that sense of entitlement.” Christina
[01.29.54] The group share their suggestions for solutions and sum-up their learnings from today’s discussion.
“Know your company’s policy in the workplace, and don’t be afraid to speak.” Kristy
You can connect with Kristy, Carl, Christina, Charlene and Nathalie over on LinkedIn.
If you found this epsiode interetsing, you might enjoy Episode 3, The Gender Equation or Episode 18, The Reality of Workplace Discrimination.
Check out our Let's Talk Supply Chain podcasts HERE.
Today we’re shaking things up and, instead of our usual guest interview, we’re featuring one of our fantastic new live shows on Let’s Talk Supply Chain – Action Items with Dyci Sfregola.
Each month Dyci, CEO of New Gen Architects, is joined by a special guest to discuss key issues in the post-COVID supply chain; actionable steps businesses can take to prepare for scalability; and how to leverage supply chain technology and process redesign to upskill or reskill teams to provide meaningful, purposeful work for their employees while improving the bottom line.
And this episode is all about stability and supply chain – two words that we don't see together very often! But Dyci has a few key action items up her sleeve to do just that – to ensure supply stability to support demand plan. Dyci is joined by special guest Atia Yarbrough, Director of Demand and Supply Planning at Mason Dixie Foods, to talk all about sales and operations planning, the importance of dual sourcing, how to reduce uncertainty, start-up funding, customer relationships and more.
[08.21] Atia’s journey to Mason Dixie Foods.
[10.41] Atia’s experience of S&OP’s in large enterprises, and how that compares to Dyci's experience of small businesses.
“We have a very cross functional process where we have supply chain, planning, sales and finance engaged and we’re working monthly… if you’re looking at it from a yearly standpoint, you’re a little too late.”
[14.20] How Mason Dixie established a robust S&OP process as a small business, and Atia’s advice on how others can get started.
“First you have to have people on board – change is hard, process change is extremely hard.”
[18.07] An idea of the time and allocation of resources required when fulfilling a successful S&OP process.
[21.21] Some of the key technologies used in sales and operations planning.
[23.46] The importance of dual sourcing.
“Customers want what they want, when they want it.. so dual sourcing is an integral part of the S&OP process."
[26.51] Audience question: any tips on how to measure ESG impacts in the S&OP process?
[28.58] Finding the right partners.
[33.25] Translating your sales and operations planning into weekly or daily S&OE’s, and determining the key KPI’s to measure that execution.
“You can have that S&OP process, but you really have to have that actionable plan to show a result every day – whether it’s a good result, or a bad one.”
[37.10] How external partners are a part of the S&OP process, and how to extract and utilize their data.
“Really organizing the data, and everybody owning their part to bring the model together, I think that’s key – because you don’t want death by Excel!
[41.53] Accountability, leadership and culture.
[45.20] This month’s Action Item – questions to ask yourself to understand if you’re running a true S&OP process.
You can find previous episodes of Action Items with Dyci Sfregola over on the live show page, or you can check out other Let’s Talk Supply Chain podcasts HERE.
You can find out more about Atia over on LinkedIn.
Today I’m joined WorkStep, a people-focused provider of hiring and retention technology for supply chain teams.
WorkStep is the market-leading provider of Frontline Workforce Retention solutions, purpose-built for the modern supply chain. With customers including manufacturing, warehousing, retail distribution, and transportation employers across North America, WorkStep solutions provide HR, operations, finance, and c-suite executives with what they need to hire frontline workers, engage them throughout their employment journey, and seamlessly act on critical insights to drive organizational change and ultimately reduce turnover.
Today Dan Johnston, Co-founder & CEO at WorkStep, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; the ins and outs of hiring and retention; the truth behind the current ‘talent shortages’; and the upcoming workforce trends to look out for.
[07.03] Dan’s founder story, and how his experience as an ‘Entrepreneur in Residence’ gave him the time to reflect on his previous role as a warehouse manager and how he could innovate to solve some of the problems he saw there.
“I’d seen just how detrimental the temp staffing model was… just how challenging a constant rotating door of frontline workforce turnover was to every level of an operation.”
[10.47] How Dan’s previous education technology businesses led him to found a business in supply chain staffing.
“When we started WorkStep, we thought of this as really a matching problem – supply and demand. And what we realized over time, is that it’s much more than that. It’s more than just matching an available worker to an available job.”
[14.16] An overview of WorkStep – what they do, and how they help their customers.
[17.04] From talent shortages to new ways of working, a look at some of the key challenges happening in staffing right now.
“A lot has changed in the last two years, but actually a lot of these trends were already underway.”
[19.57] WorkStep’s employer solution for hiring new staff – how it works, the benefits and the power of data and automation.
[22.37] WorkStep’s employer solution for staff retention, why retention is so important and the huge impact it has on both a company’s top and bottom lines.
“We’re talking about hundreds of millions of dollars in turnover spend that these large logistics and manufacturing companies are incurring every year – so this is a very important bottom line problem.”
[26.14] Why WorkStep is the best solution for job seekers.
[29.22] The importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and how WorkStep’s solution can help aid your DEI strategy.
[33.15] The ideal client for WorkStep.
[35.41] A closer look at WorkStep’s competitive pricing model.
[37.16] A case study, showing how WorkStep helped a 3PL achieve an 18% decrease in overall staff turnover, and a 36% decrease in new hire turnover, resulting in significant savings to the customer's bottom line.
[40.07] The future for WorkStep.
“Our goal is really to make the front line a better place to work… we help workers improve their jobs, so they can live a better life.”
Head over to WorkStep’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with WorkStep and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, or you can connect with Dan on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain, I’m joined by Mardi Tegmeyer: a passionately customer-focused supply chain leader.
An experienced logistics professional, Mardi’s knowledge and experience covers sales, operations, account management and customer success. As a leader at Emerge, she’s helping to reinvent freight procurement by putting customers firmly front and center.
Today Mardi will be talking to us about her career so far; her passion for customer success; and the importance of collaboration and inclusion within supply chain. Plus, she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in the industry, as well as her words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.
This Women in Supply Chain feature was made possible by our sponsor, Emerge. As a company focused on empowering and growing meaningful supply chain relationships, Emerge is proud to sponsor Women in Supply Chain. Through its freight procurement platform, Emerge offers solutions that enhance the spot and contract procurement process, enabling shippers and carriers to make more strategic decisions.
[07.36] Mardi’s background, and the journey that led her to a career in supply chain and customer experience.
“I was the receptionist to start… and then a month later, I was the customer service manager! And from that point, taking care of customers was my niche.”
[12.06] Mardi’s experience at Garrett Popcorn, her incredible accomplishments there and the power of learning on the job.
“I was in a little over my head – I was figuring it out as I went, making relationships, building trust… It was an adventure!”
[15.37] Mardi’s reflections on young people and supply chain, the balance between learning and experience and what the next generation of supply chain professionals bring to the table.
“There’s no right or wrong way to solve challenges in this industry.”
[18.07] Mardi’s role as Customer Success Manager at Emerge.
“Every day is different - I do love that about this job - I can come in and solve different problems… and there’s lots of disruptions going on, especially now.”
[19.58] A closer look at Emerge’s supportive culture and approach to diversity and inclusion.
[21.31] The importance of customer success, building strong relationships and how it differentiates you in the marketplace.
[24.16] The role of collaboration, how it ties business together and impacts the overall success of customer experience.
“Customers want to see that we’re, internally, collaborating and that their information isn’t getting lost in the shuffle.”
[26.50] Mardi’s experiences as a woman in a largely male-dominated industry.
“Ultimately, I think we teach people how to treat us – and I think hard work pays off.”
[29.20] Mardi’s thoughts on mentorship and the college professor that helped to launch her journey.
[30.50] What the future holds for Mardi.
[31.39] Mardi’s words of advice for all of the women out there.
“I would love to empower everyone, if I could, to have that big voice, to speak up – and don’t be worried about how you’re perceived as a result.”
You can connect with Mardi over on LinkedIn.
If you want to find out more about Emerge, check out episode 243, where George Abernathy joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; bringing accountability to logistics; and why it’s so important to bring all industry players together to build positive and mutually beneficial networks.
Why not also head over to Debra Phillips' (Marketing Manager at Emerge) blog to hear her thoughts on whether consumers are finally growing tired of supply chain shortages and rising costs.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by Zenov BPO, a customer-centric and results-driven outsourcing business, who are laser-focused on solving their clients’ toughest challenges through their range of expert services.
Zenov are dedicated to ensuring efficiency in their customers back office operations, and to delivering the best savings, by providing unmatched services in strategy, technology and operations. With expertise across industries and most business functions, they deliver transformational outcomes for a demanding new digital world.
Today Joseph Wilson, Senior Director & Partner at Zenov BPO, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; the role of outsourcing in contemporary business; and the importance of a customer-focused approach.
[07.23] An overview of Zenov BPO – what they do, and how they help their customers.
“A lot of organizations hit that hump, where they can’t grow exponentially… so we’re saying ‘how can we help these organizations climb and reach their pinnacle?’”
[09.29] From accounting to supply chain management, a closer look at Zenov’s range of services.
"A lot of companies are still working on Excel… so we take all that information and compile it into a dashboard so they can have the data to drive the business, to make decisions that are agile but also meet and exceed expectations.”
[11.49] How Zenov work with their customers to build a bespoke support package that best addresses their challenges.
“We take KPI’s… and get organizations to start thinking differently.”
[16.49] How, and why, Zenov work as an extension of their customers internal teams.
[18.28] The most common objections from potential customers when it comes to embracing outsourcing.
“One of the biggest hesitations, prior to COVID, was ‘the back office is going to take my job!’ But we’re not taking your job, we’re supporting... allowing you to do the value add work.”
[22.47] Zenov’s North American office and executive staff, why that’s important and the benefits it brings to their customer base.
[25.48] The importance of a customer-focused approach and why it’s a growing trend.
“We look to be an extension of their business… and if they’re not growing, and they’re going out of business, so are we. So we look at it as if it's our own family-run business.”
[27.09] The impact of COVID on the workplace and the unexpected positives.
[29.02] The trend towards increased outsourcing, and the current challenges – and potential – within the talent pool.
[32.59] The ideal customer for Zenov BPO.
[34.23] A case study detailing how Zenov helped to improve response time and customer satisfaction for a key client, resulting in an increased profit margin of 30-40%.
[37.35] The future for Zenov BPO.
Head over to Zenov BPO’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Zenov BPO and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, or you can connect with Joseph on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by Motion2AI, an exciting and innovative tech company offering machine-learned solutions for warehouse mobility operations, covering monitoring, dispatch, safety, and autonomy integration.
Founded in 2018, Motion2AI is a fast-growing start-up providing intelligent solutions for warehouse efficiency and safety. It offers AI platforms for warehouse mobility fleets (such as forklifts, carts or robots) by providing services of safety, monitoring, optimization, and autonomy. And the ecosystem supports manned labor and robots seamlessly, providing practical and scalable solutions for warehouse operations.
Today Byungsoo Kim, Founder & CEO at Motion2AI, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; the benefits to be found in harnessing the power of AI within operations; and the relationship between people and technology.
[07.00] Byungsoo’s background and how he came to found Motion2AI.
“Not every warehouse is taking advantage of that new technology and I’m happy that, with Motion2AI, I can support that.”
[09.00] Byungsoo’s experience as a start-up, and Motion2AI’s impressive growth in a short space of time.
“There’s no secret… we have good technology, and we’re working with excellent customers!”
[10.24] An overview of Motion2AI – what they do, and how they help their customers.
[12.19] The three core challenges that Motion2AI customers are currently facing in their warehouses.
“The size of these warehouses is a big challenge… so communicating and collaborating between those different units is a challenge, too.”
[13.52] A closer look at the four core products that make up Motion2AI’s MotionFMS Fleet Management Service, and why they all look to solve one key over-arching problem.
[20.19] The speed, ease and comparatively low cost of integration and implementation with the wireless Motion2AI systems.
[22.31] The importance of visibility.
“Visibility is really important for warehouse operation… especially in productivity and safety.”
[23.43] Byungsoo’s reflections on AI, from the relationship between people and technology – and how Motion2AI are pulling everything together – to a comparison between AI innovation and the Industrial Revolution.
“Our solution is saving their time… it’s automating many of those tedious tasks and helping the staff spend their time on more valuable tasks.”
[28.29] The ideal customer for Motion2AI.
[29.30] A glimpse into the time and cost savings customers can expect by working with Motion2AI.
[31.23] The future for Motion2AI.
Head over to Motion2AI’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Motion2AI and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn or Facebook, or you can connect with Byungsoo on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by R2 Logistics, an award-winning third-party logistics provider offering industry-leading supply chain management services to shippers of all sizes.
Founded in 2007, R2 Logistics is a global provider of market-leading transportation services and logistics solutions. As a third-party logistics company, it provides access to thousands of transportation providers and has the capacity to resolve all of your shipping needs. Backed by game-changing technology and its culture for reliable service and relentless passion, R2 Logistics has built a strong reputation as an industry leader.
Today Frank Dreischarf, Vice President of Supply Chain Solutions at R2 Logistics, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; overcoming challenges in the midst of disruption; and the importance of collaboration and visibility in supply chain.
[08.28] R2 Logistics’ background and how they’ve evolved into the company they are today.
“That expedite mentality, that sense of urgency, is part of our organizational DNA.”
[11.29] A closer look at the R2 Logistics transportation management system, its features and the benefits.
[14.10] From expedited to intermodal, a look at R2 Logistics' full suite of services for shippers.
“I like to say that we’re in the ‘headache elimination’ business. Our job is to work with our strategic customers, figure out what their needs are, anticipate those needs (sometimes before they even know that they have them) and come up with solutions.”
[15.08] The importance of transparency and why R2 Logistics partner with industry-leading tech providers to offer the highest level of visibility.
[17.12] The R2 Logistics carrier offering.
[19.13] A closer look at the platform itself, and its user-friendly interface.
“Everything, from the interface to how the customer interacts with the system, is designed to make it as easy as possible.”
[21.23] The speed and ease of an R2 Logistics implementation, and the on-boarding audits that help new customers ensure they have the best prices and achieve the most value from the process.
“We're able to add a lot of value to customers that are in that mid-small size range… because companies of that size just don’t have the economic resources to hire the professionals necessary to adequately manage that transportation spend.”
[26.50] The R2 Way, and why this unique set of principles sets them apart.
[30.05] From the importance of surety of supply to a new appreciation for collaboration, Frank’s reflections on the state of the industry right now, and the key trends and learnings coming out of it.
“People are starting to realize that relationships matter, collaboration matters. Those customers or shippers out there that have forever viewed their relationships with their transportation providers as tactical, rather than strategic, are suffering right now.”
[34.30] The ideal customer for R2 Logistics.
[36.22] A case study detailing how R2 Logistics was able to help a key customer quickly integrate new acquisitions into their network and reduce transportation costs by 15%.
[38.27] The future for R2 Logistics.
Head over to R2 Logistics’ website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with R2 Logistics and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or Twitter, or you can connect with Frank on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain, I’m joined by Mary McNelly: industry powerhouse and logistics and supply chain expert for leading global shoe brand, Crocs.
An experienced and talented leader, Mary’s knowledge and experience covers all aspects of logistics and supply chain. In her 13 year career with leading retailer Crocs, Mary has risen through the ranks to become the Senior Director of Global Logistics & Supply Chain Network Design.
Today Mary will be talking to us about her career so far; her passion for logistics; and the role of innovation, automation and agility amidst major disruption. Plus, she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in the industry, as well as her words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.
This Women in Supply Chain feature was made possible by our sponsor, Emerge. As a company focused on empowering and growing meaningful supply chain relationships, Emerge is proud to sponsor Women in Supply Chain. Through its freight procurement platform, Emerge offers solutions that enhance the spot and contract procurement process, enabling shippers and carriers to make more strategic decisions.
[06.06] Mary’s background, and the journey that led her to a career in supply chain.
“For the people who are interested, but don’t really know – jump in and just start…. If you’re true to yourself you’ll find it, because there’s something for everyone in supply chain.”
[09.32] A closer look at Mary’s current role as senior director of global logistics and supply chain network design at Crocs, the challenges and the triumphs.
“Logistics in the last three years has really proven to be incredibly enabling or disabling, if you don’t think forward and have the right relationships and strategy.”
[12.34] Mary’s steady career progression throughout her 13 years with Crocs, and what she loves so much about the brand.
[14.32] Mary’s experience of disruption as a director of a global brand during a pandemic, and the different proactive ways in which Crocs responded.
“I love logistics, supply chain and problem-solving – and what’s more important, is we’re creating history in supply chain right now.”
[18.23] Mary’s innovative, strategic and agile approach to leadership, and how more businesses across the industry can better nurture that kind of mindset.
[21.03] The importance of sustainability and social responsibility, and a closer look at Crocs philanthropy division.
[24.15] Mary’s experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry.
“I’m so proud to be able to say that the majority of our C Suite at Crocs are all women… it’s been a real goal within Crocs to continue to elevate women.”
[29.23] Mary’s reflections on the best way to engage in mentorship.
“If you’re thinking you need to lean out and ask somebody for mentorship, think about what you’re really asking for and be really focused on that.”
[31.40] The small, consistent steps throughout her career that helped Mary to find her voice as a supply chain leader.
[35.15] What the future holds for Mary.
[36.55] Mary’s words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.
“You can choose to see all of the men in the room, and get overwhelmed – or you can choose to see all of the amazing women in the room, get motivated, go and stand next to them and be a part of that. And that was a transformational moment for me.”
You can connect with Mary over on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by FarEye, a cutting-edge logistics tech company that is on a mission to make logistics across the world more efficient, predictive and organized, through the use of new technology.
FarEye’s Intelligent Delivery Management Platform is making the delivery experience better for everyone, and enabling enterprises to deliver at reduced cost with a superior customer experience. Founded in 2013, the platform leverages millions of data points to predict the shipment journey and improve the delivery experience for hundreds of businesses in over 30 countries worldwide.
Today Kushal Nahata, Co-founder and CEO at FarEye, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do, the challenges of last-mile delivery, reducing your carbon footprint while cutting costs, and why, in the e-commerce industry, experience is the new loyalty.
[06.15] Kushal’s journey from engineering to transportation; and how, and why, he came to co-found FarEye.
“Our passion was: ‘can we leverage our engineering technology knowledge to solve real world problems?’”
[08.43] An overview of FarEye – what they do, and how they help their customers.
“The space has evolved… It’s less about what you deliver – it’s become more and more important, how you deliver.”
[11.15] The four main challenges in last-mile delivery and customer expectation today, and how the FarEye team got hands-on, with drivers and dispatchers, to understand these pain points from the inside.
[15.46] An overview of FarEye’s Intelligent Delivery Orchestration, Intelligent Delivery Visibility and Intelligent Customer Experience products, and their benefits.
“Logistics, which used to be more of an operation and execution function, has now become a revenue generation function as well.”
[19.52] A closer look at the FarEye platform, and the increasingly important role of low-code development, particularly in the ever-changing world of logistics.
“With a low-code platform, you can define your own logistics and delivery process.”
[21.38] FarEye’s plug and play implementation and integration process.
“In the last two years specifically, a lot of companies are looking at speed to market. And that’s where I think implementation time becomes a big blocker, or enabler.”
[22.54] The importance of sustainability, and why it can lead to greater profitability.
[24.55] FarEye’s ethos of collaboration, and mission to make life better for everyone.
[27.19] The ideal customer for FarEye.
[28.20] A case study detailing how FarEye was able to help a key customer, a major pizza delivery service, vastly reduce delivery time and cost, as well as greatly improve its delivery NPS.
[33.22] The future for FarEye, and for the logistics industry over the coming years.
Head over to FarEye’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with FarEye and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube or Twitter, or you can connect with Kushal on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by Optimal Dynamics, a cutting-edge tech company that is utilizing next-generation artificial intelligence to enable logistics companies to better plan, optimize and automate strategic, tactical and real-time operational decisions.
Optimal Dynamics was founded to bring advanced AI to the logistics industry, in order to help companies automate and optimize operations. A by-product of 40 years of world-leading research and development, Optimal Dynamics’ underlying technology has managed billions of dollars of assets for some of the largest companies in the world.
Today Daniel Powell, founder and CEO at Optimal Dynamics, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; the role of education in innovation; and why fully realized AI solutions are the future of supply chain.
[06.31] Daniel’s career journey, and how, and why, he came to found Optimal Dynamics.
“I backed into where I am now, not intentionally – through realizing that being Gordon Gecko was much cooler in a movie!”
[09.06] An overview of Optimal Dynamics – what they do, and how they help their customers.
[13.35] An explanation of CORE.ai and how it sits behind the Optimal Dynamics platform.
“Core.ai is the underlying engine behind the Optimal platform; it’s the building block of 40 years of research and development, to help make decisions in uncertain environments.”
[15.17] The reality of AI within the logistics industry right now.
[20.48] A closer look at the Optimal Dyanimcs product and how it can help with day to day logistics operations.
“When we think of our plans, we think of resilient, self-healing operations.”
[23.40] Future Visibility™ and how visibility, and the insights that it brings, can help to facilitate effective optimization and collaboration.
“[If the logistics team have information earlier], they can collaborate with their teams and figure out freight that fits well for their network, not just a band aid.”
[27.35] Optimal Dynamics’ easy, phased implementation and integration process.
[29.15] The role of learning and education within Optimal Dynamics’ ethos, why it’s so important and why it sets them apart.
“Education is part of our DNA… Robust learning and impact is going to eventually drive innovation, but innovating to innovate is not who we are.”
[31.24] The ideal customer for Optimal Dynamics.
[32.24] A look at the impact and ROI that the Optimal Dynamics platform is delivering for its customers.
[34.51] The future for Optimal Dynamics.
“We’ll be spreading our application as far and wide as we can, throughout logistics and supply chain, to help every company make better decisions.”
Head over to Optimal Dynamics’ website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Optimal Dynamics and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, or you can connect with Daniel on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by Overhaul, a fast-growing supply chain tech company that is on a mission to empower global supply chains with risk management for compliance, efficiency & transparency.
Founded in 2016, Overhaul is the industry’s first and only holistic, end-to-end solution that optimizes supply-chain visibility, integrity, and security for global enterprises. Its software-based approach offers high configurability and efficient time-to-value to supply chain organizations, without the heavy tech debt found with hardware-based providers. Overhaul has quickly grown to be a trusted provider for Fortune 100 companies moving freight globally across industries, such as pharmaceutical and healthcare, technology, logistics, and food and beverage.
Today Karin Stevens, General Manager at Overhaul, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; utilizing multimodal visibility in risk management; and the importance of digital supply chain transformation.
[07.01] Overhaul’s founder story: how, and why, the company began, and how it has evolved since its inception.
“Our software has been developed to provide real time visibility around what’s happening in your supply chain.”
[10.43] A broad look at Overhaul – what they do, and how they help their customers.
“For us, defining ourselves as a risk management organization is broader than just providing root visibility – it’s about providing actionable insights, and providing real time corrective response into the supply chain.”
[15.44] A closer look at risk management, why it’s so important, and how it connects to issues around compliance and insurance.
“Over the last 15 years we’ve seen about a 330% increase in verdicts ending in over 1 million dollars in litigation costs.”
[21.30] Overhaul's implementation and integration process, and the role of data.
“The ability to integrate, but then also plug the gaps, is a key theme for our implementation process.”
[27.52] The realities of digital transformation, change management and the process of identifying core business problems.
[32.15] The ideal customer for Overhaul.
[35.00] Case studies: how Overhaul helped two key customers.
“It’s not just a one size fits all experience within our software. It’s something that’s connected and configured around the customers KPIs and what they care about.”
[42.56] The future for Overhaul, and for the logistics industry.
Head over to Overhaul’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Overhaul and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter, or you can connect with Karin on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain, I’m joined by leading supply chain writer, editor and brand manager, Marina Mayer.
An experienced B2B journalist with over 13 years in the supply chain and logistics space, Marina follows and writes about marketplace disruption, trends and technologies around warehousing, transportation, procurement, sustainability, safety, risk management, software & technology and more.
Currently, editor-in-chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, she has a range of responsibilities across brand, editorial direction, production, sales and industry events.
Today Marina will be talking to us about her career so far; her passion for supply chain; and the trends we can expect in 2022. And she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in the industry, and her words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.
This Women in Supply Chain feature was made possible by our sponsor, Emerge. As a company focused on empowering and growing meaningful supply chain relationships, Emerge is proud to sponsor Women in Supply Chain. Through its freight procurement platform, Emerge offers solutions that enhance the spot and contract procurement process, enabling shippers and carriers to make more strategic decisions.
[06.08] Marina’s background, and how switching majors changed the course of her career journey.
“I switched my major, and it was the best decision I could have made… it was a blessing in disguise.”
[07.45] How Marina came to specialize in the supply chain and logistics space, and what she loves so much about it.
[10.08] How Marina took a risk with a big new role, and her reflections on Mom guilt and balancing work and family life.
“As a woman, who has a lot of tasks at home and at work, you have to (at one point) put yourself first.”
[14.08] A closer look at Marina’s role, that covers a huge range of responsibilities, from brand and marketing, to strategy and sales, and events and awards.
[15.50] What sets Marina’s publications’ awards apart, and why they’re so important in the industry.
“There are so many supply chain professionals out there, but there’s only some that are making a huge difference – and we want to make sure that we’re not only ethical, but we’re honing in on the credibility.”
[19.07] Marina’s reflections on the current supply chain crisis, keeping on top of trends and the tech we can expect to see playing a key role in the coming year.
“Robotics and automation will continue to lead the charge, and anything that makes peoples jobs easier, safer and faster.”
[22.51] How journalism has changed over the course of Marina’s career, and how the industry has adapted the way that it both distributes and consumes content.
[26.52] Where Marina gets her work ethic.
[30.03] Marina’s experience as a woman in journalism, and the male mentors that helped her along the way.
[32.52] How Marina found her voice, and her words of advice to all of the women following in her footsteps.
“I don’t want to be in situation where I regret not taking that job, or having that conversation – you just have to do it.”
[36.39] What the future holds for Marina.
You can connect with Marina over on LinkedIn.
Head over to Supply and Demand Chain Executives’ website to find out more, or connect and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn.
Head over to Food Logistics’ website to find out more, or connect and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by TransImpact, a game-changing logistics tech company that is transforming business performance through industry-leading technology, relentless customer service, and future-focused knowledge.
TransImpact is an industry leader in the development and application of end-to-end technology-based solutions that optimize shipping operations, create dramatic supply chain efficiencies and transform the business performance of customers.
Today Berkley Stafford, CEO at TransImpact, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; the importance of integrating technology into logistics; and the key challenges and trends, from data to shipping, happening in the industry right now.
[06.52] An introduction to TransImpact – what they do, and how they help their customers – and a look at how and why the company was founded.
“… we can analyze, help you identify efficiencies and ultimately improve your margins – we stay away from soft costs, let’s get right into the hard costs, and what’s in your bank account!”
[09.45] A closer look at TransImpact’s parcel solutions.
“Parcel is such a dynamic industry right now, and extremely volatile.”
[14.33] TransImpact’s unbiased ‘behind the scenes’ approach.
“Our technology and expertise has nothing to do with influencing you... We don’t care if you want to use UPS or Fedex – the savings are on the table, regardless of the carrier you use.”
[16.27] Current industry challenges: what TransImpact has seen, and how their business has pivoted to support their customers.
“Now, we’re taking a different approach – we’re not only saving customers money, we’re giving them an entirely different opportunity to alleviate capacity concerns.”
[20.14] Why complexity leads to opportunity.
[22.27] Why the industry has, on the whole, been slow to embrace new technologies and digitization.
[25.48] A closer look at the integration of TransImpact solutions.
[27.45] Data and visibility: the challenges, and how TransImpact can help.
“You wouldn’t believe the left hand not knowing what the right hand knows, and how disconnected they are – and you wouldn’t believe the amount of data customers don’t actually have, because it’s dirty.”
[32.02] The ideal customer for TransImpact.
[34.29] Case studies: how TransImpact helped two key customers.
[41.49] The future for TransImpact, and for the logistics industry.
Head over to TransImpact’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with TransImpact and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook or Twitter, or you can connect with Berkley on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
Today I’m joined by Emerge, an exciting software company that is on a mission to empower meaningful logistics relationships through transformative technologies.
The Emerge Digital Freight Marketplace provides access to benchmarked rates and thousands of trusted partners to maximize cost-savings. The platform allows you to grow your network, while leveraging your current connections for spot and contract freight.
Today George Abernathy, President at Emerge, joins me to chat all about the company: what they do; bringing accountability to logistics; and why it’s so important to bring all the industry players together in order to build positive and mutually beneficial networks.
[07.01] How and why Andrew Leto came to found Emerge in 2017.
“In procurement, within transportation, there really weren’t any best practices.”
[11.03] An introduction to Emerge – what they do, and how they help their customers.
“There are Fortune 500 shippers that are still using spreadsheets to do their transportation procurement, thinking they’re in the vicinity of best practices – and they’re not!”
[14.13] A closer look at the features and benefits of the Emerge platform for shippers.
[21.23] Carrier’s limited access to freight, and why it’s important not to limit possibilities and to open up the industry.
“In this marketplace, finding the right carrier for a particular shipper and meeting their need… has never been more challenging than it is today, and that’s why Emerge has had so much rapid success.”
[27.53] The ease of integration with the Emerge platform.
“It used to be that you’d go through months and months of working… now we’ll do a demo and within a week or two, a client will be running hundreds of millions of dollars through our system.”
[31.52] The Emerge ethos, and the importance of accountability, transparency and collaboration.
“We are providing an unbiased, transparent solution, which allows for quick turn on – you can’t stand around and wait for value to happen.”
[35.50] The ideal customer for Emerge.
[38.25] A key customer case study.
[42.02] The future for Emerge.
Head over to Emerge’s website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Emerge and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook or Twitter, or you can connect with George on LinkedIn.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
It’s episode 16 of Blended: I’m joined by another amazing panel of guests and we’re talking about OCD – obsessive compulsive disorder. This is a really interesting topic because it’s a name I think a lot of people recognize, but I’m not sure it’s something that as many people really understand. And that is why we do this show.
Today we’ll be diving into our guests personal experiences with OCD; the impact of the media; issues around stereotypes and assumptions; and the panel will be sharing their advice for creating more supportive and inclusive workplaces.
[0.37] Introductions to our Blended panellists.
[02.04] An explanation of what OCD is, and how it impact a person’s life.
“The OCD brain is highly analytical.” India
[07.14] The panel share their own stories and personal experiences of OCD.
“It impacted my marriage – it was taking me four or five hours to get into bed because of my rituals. It can be very confusing and disempowering for a partner.” India
[15.49] The group discuss inaccurate assumptions around OCD, both in the media and in wider society.
“OCD is incredibly serious, it’s often very dark and it’s often so abhorrent, so disgusting and revolting for the person experiencing the thoughts, that it results in these extreme and bizarre behaviours.” India
[24.28] The panel reflect on the prevalence of OCD within society, compared with the lack of understanding.
“Many people think that mental health is exaggerated, that people want attention – but mental health is just as important as physical health.” Miguel
[41.43] The group discuss OCD in the workplace, and the impact on both person and business.
“The key is in respect and understanding, without judging in a hasty way.” Miguel
[57.12] The panellists sum-up their thoughts from today’s discussion.
You can connect with India and Miguel over on LinkedIn.
Head over to OCD Excellence’s website to find out more and discover how they could help. You can also connect with OCD Excellence and keep up to date with the latest over on Instagram or YouTube.
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