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Today, we have an exciting guest on the podcast - Rah Mahtani from Alibaba.com. We dive into the impact of tariffs on Alibaba's business, the shifts in sourcing behavior among American importers, and the biggest emerging countries in manufacturing that might be worth considering in the future. Struggling with tariffs? Unsure about upcoming changes? Let's talk! With Portless, you only pay tariffs after your customers pay you – so your cash always moves faster than your costs. Schedule a risk assessment and leverage tariff deferment today. All new customers get $1,000 to reinvest in their business. For today's episode, we have a special guest. We have the Head of Commercial Strategy of Alibaba, Rah Mahtani. We talk about tariffs, other countries that are seeing rising demand and what Alibaba is currently focused on to grow their portfolio of manufacturers. This episode is one not to miss! The Big Takeaway Tariffs create cash flow challenges for businesses. Alibaba saw a surge in new customers during high tariff periods. Sourcing behavior is shifting towards larger orders and long-term planning. Vietnam and Mexico are emerging as key sourcing countries. Alibaba is committed to increasing supplier diversity. Community engagement is a priority for Alibaba. Alibaba offers various services beyond sourcing, including logistics support. The company is focused on educating suppliers in emerging markets. There is a growing demand for nearshoring and offshoring. Alibaba's headquarters in Hangzhou is open for tours. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to today's guest 05:02 - Impact of Tariffs on Alibaba's Business 09:49 - Shifts in Sourcing Behavior 15:03 - Emerging Markets and Supplier Diversity 19:57 - Community Engagement and Alibaba's Services As always, if you have any questions or anything that you need help with, leave a comment down below if you're interested. Don't forget to leave us a review on iTunes if you enjoy our content. Thanks for listening! Until next time, happy selling!
Tiger Talk Podcast by Northeast Mississippi Community College
In this week's episode of the award-winning Tiger Talk podcast, join Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery as Dr. Ford discusses how Northeast stays connected to the communities it serves—and why those connections are essential to the college's mission.Dr. Ford explores the role of “community” in community college and shares the various ways Northeast engages with its five-county service district: Alcorn, Prentiss, Tippah, Tishomingo, and Union counties—and beyond. He talks about the presence of satellite campuses in several counties and the importance of maintaining contact and offering classes in all five. The college not only provides academic education to the citizens of each county but also strives to be a strong economic partner with local businesses, leaders, and industries.Dr. Ford also highlights how Northeast helps strengthen the region's economy by producing a well-educated workforce ready to meet the needs of incoming and existing businesses. He praises the award-winning Adult Education program for its dual role in helping individuals earn their High School Equivalency (HiSET) diplomas and equipping them with the skills needed to become highly skilled members of the workforce.Plus, stay updated on the latest in athletics, academics, workforce development, and more at one of the nation's premier community colleges.Missed an episode? All Northeast Tiger Talk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com. For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com.--NEMCC--Information about Northeast Mississippi Community CollegeNortheast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields.For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.
Our guest on this week's episode is Jorge Gonzalez Henrichsen, co-CEO of The Nearshore Company. It's now been five years since the USMCA trade agreement was negotiated between the Mexico, Canada, and the United States, replacing NAFTA. In this current time of trade friction, including new tariffs on both Mexico and Canada, what's still working with USMCA and what's next for the trade alliance? Our guest offers some insights.There is an ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers in our nation. Recently a new study was delivered to Congress that showed the FAA hired only two-thirds of the air traffic controllers called for by its staffing models. By fiscal year 2024, nearly a third of air traffic control facilities had fallen 10% below model standards and about 22% had fallen 15% below. We discuss why there is a lack of air traffic controllers and what can be done to assure safety in the skies. Despite widespread adoption of digital tools and automation technologies, marine terminals around the world face persistent challenges with issues such as data connectivity, system integration, and real-time visibility. New research shows that there are lots of opportunities for real-time, automated data connectivity across terminals. It seems that many terminals have made big technology investments, and the next step is to ensure that their systems connect and all work together.Supply Chain Xchange also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane. It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:The Nearshore CompanyReport: Congress should fund FAA to boost air traffic control workforceMarine Terminals need connectivity solutionsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Storage SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY
Arnab Banerjee | Managing Director & CEO,CEAT Mr. Arnab Banerjee is the Chief Operating Officer at CEAT Limited. He has a total of over 30 years of experience, during which he has worked at CEAT, Marico, and Berger Paints. Arnab is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School, IIM Kolkata, and IIT Kharagpur. He joined CEAT in the year 2005 as Vice President, Sales and Marketing. Under his leadership, CEAT has seen innovations in marketing initiatives, Sales and distribution strategies, manufacturing flexibility, and seamless Supply Chain processes over the last 15 years. Everything about customers is his passion. He also takes an interest in numismatics, photography, high-altitude trekking, and long-distance running.
Burnie and Ashley discuss the pangolin market, Trump savings accounts, Tesla Robotaxi requested delays, and how to talk to your family about UBI.Support our podcast at: https://www.patreon.com/morningsomewhereFor the link dump visit: http://www.morningsomewhere.comFor merch, check out: http://store.morningsomewhere.com
Our CEO Brett Curry sits with Jim Kennemer in this latest episode. Jim knows his stuff when it comes to tariffs, supply chain management and sourcing anything outside of China. Brett wanted to bring Jim on the pod to break down the opportunities and considerations of sourcing from Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Mexico, sharing real examples of how brands like Columbia Sportswear and Converse have legally engineered their products to slash tariff costs. From understanding country of origin rules to leveraging bonded warehouses for cash flow management, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for any brand looking to optimize their supply chain in today's volatile trade environment.Key TakeawaysThe DDP trap that could destroy your business – Why "delivered duty paid" arrangements are legal but dangerous when suppliers falsify invoices (and why you're still liable even if it's their mistake)Tariff engineering strategies – How adding a simple pocket or felt liner can reclassify your products for lower tariff rates, plus when this optimization makes sense vs. when it backfiresVietnam vs. other manufacturing hubs – Where Vietnam excels (textiles, wood goods, furniture), what to expect for pricing and quality, and why MOQs are higher than ChinaDe minimis rules and bonded warehouses – How the $800 shipment exemption still works (except for China), and when custom bonded warehouses can turn a 30% tariff hit into manageable cash flowCountry of origin compliance – The "substantial transformation" rule, why trans-shipment will get you caught with 50% more audits happening, and how to properly document manufacturingWhether you're considering your first move away from China or optimizing an existing diversified supply chain, this episode provides the roadmap to do it right without the costly compliance mistakes that are tripping up other brands.
This week marks the final episode of Season 2 of Augmented Ops! Natan and Erik look back and share their biggest takeaways from conversations with CEOs, frontline engineers, and operations leaders. They unpack marketing hype vs. the current state of AI on the shop floor, the rise of citizen developers, and why “digital transformation” needs a serious rebrand. They also dive deep into the demise of traditional MES, explore the shift toward composable, platform-driven architectures, and offer predictions on how adaptability will define manufacturing success in the year of the “composable operations.” Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/).
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kevin L. Jackson sit down with Antonio Bustamante, CEO of bem, to explore how automation is reshaping the supply chain landscape in 2025. Together, they unpack the hidden costs of manual workflows, the pitfalls of outdated systems, and the massive opportunity in eliminating data friction.Antonio shares how bem helps teams move away from time-consuming email and PDF-based processes toward self-healing, AI-powered systems that learn from every operator input. He discusses why the freight world is especially burdened by unstructured data, and how automation can free up teams to focus on serving customers, not fixing typos.The conversation also covers the limitations of RPA and email triage, the challenge of achieving interoperability across legacy systems, and why meeting operators where they are (even if that means faxes and handwritten notes) is key to meaningful digital transformation. Plus, Antonio offers a peek at bem's upcoming Command Center, a tool that gives ops teams the power to correct, route, and improve workflows without relying on engineering.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:49) The importance of automation in supply chain(06:57) Challenges of manual data entry(13:47) Unstructured data in supply chain(21:06) The role of communication in logistics(22:34) Understanding multimodal communication(23:45) Challenges with RPA and email triage(24:44) Embracing real-world data(27:09) The role of handwritten notes(27:49) BIM's impact on manual processing(30:39) Introducing the command center(40:08) Composable infrastructureAdditional Links & Resources:Learn more about bem: https://blog.bem.ai/ Connect with Antonio Bustamante: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abmirayo/ Loop automates data transformation at scale for new clients with bem: https://www.bem.ai/customer-stories/loop-automates-data-transformation-at-scale-for-new-clients-with-bemThe Supply Chain Back Office Is Broken: https://lp.supplychainnow.com/bemFor more content with bem and Supply Chain Now, check out the bem Campaign Landing Page: https://supplychainnow.com/bem Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now's NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQWEBINAR- Transforming Operations: Flowers Foods Unveils Its Digital Supply Chain Revolution:
During this episode, Santosh is joined by Michael Murray, Senior Director, Global Supply Chain Management at DSV Inventory Management Solutions. Michael discusses the complex semiconductor supply chain landscape and explores critical topics such as the Section 232 trade investigation, challenges of onshoring, and strategies for managing inventory amid global trade tensions. He also emphasizes the importance of transparency, strategic partnerships, and creative solutions like consigned inventory to balance supply risk and cost efficiency. Key takeaways include the need for closer collaboration between suppliers and manufacturers, adapting to changing trade policies, and viewing supply chain relationships as strategic partnerships rather than transactional interactions. The conversation provides insights into how semiconductor companies are navigating national security concerns, tariff challenges, the evolving global manufacturing environment, and so much more. Highlights from their conversation include:DSV Inventory Management Solutions Overview (0:58)Michael's Background and Career Journey (2:26)Section 232 Investigation Explained (3:44)Trade War and Near-Term Disruptions (5:11)Trade Compliance and Coding (7:49)Cost vs. Control in Sourcing (10:38)Balancing Lean and Resilient Inventory (13:01)Strategic Partnerships and Trust (17:26)Macro View: Future of Supply Chains & Trade Policy (18:08)This or That Segment and Parting Thoughts (19:59)Dynamo is a VC firm led by supply chain and mobility specialists that focus on seed-stage, enterprise startups.Find out more at: https://www.dynamo.vc/
What if the biggest Amazon threat isn't competition but ignorance? In this episode, Neil sits down with Pasha, a veteran Amazon seller and agency owner with over 13 years of experience. They dig into what's actually happening behind the scenes on Amazon and why so many sellers are quietly exiting the platform.Pasha shares how he went from flipping goods on eBay to building and exiting a seven-figure brand, then launching an agency that now manages multiple product lines. You'll hear real talk on tariffs, inventory strategy, sourcing outside of China, and the data sellers ignore at their own risk.If you sell on Amazon or are thinking about it, this episode gives you the insider playbook.In This Episode, We Cover:✅ Why Amazon is seeing fewer sellers but more traffic per brand✅ How tariffs and Chinese competition are shaking up FBA✅ The real costs of selling products under $50✅ Why U.S. manufacturing might be a better play than you think✅ Lessons from the COVID-era supply chain crisis✅ The tiered pricing strategy smart sellers are using✅ Why your listing doesn't matter if your product choice is wrong✅ How to prepare for Q4 and avoid stockoutsChapters:[00:01:21] How the Amazon Marketplace Has Changed Since 2011[00:03:24] Tariffs, Regulations, and Why Sellers Are Dropping Off[00:07:07] Supply Chain Shifts and the Q4 Inventory Crunch[00:13:11] U.S. Manufacturing, Legal Limits, and Product Theft[00:18:11] U.S. Manufacturers Reaching Out Post-Tariffs[00:19:08] Why $50 and Below Products Don't Work Domestically[00:22:28] When Agencies Have to Break the Bad News to Clients[00:24:00] Pasha's Path: From eBay Hustler to Brand Builder[00:25:00] Dropping Out of College to Go All-In on Amazon[00:26:13] Advice for Young Entrepreneurs on Choosing the Right Path
How can you get the most out of your supply chain relationships? Communication is key, and not just when the headwinds hit. Matt Potts, founder of Normal, Illinois-based Destihl, and Ron Schroder, Briess director of marketing, share how they're navigating supply challenges and how craft brewers can mitigate issues by maintaining lines of communication. Potts also explains why Destihl has supplemented its own growth with partner brands, including the Wrexham Lager, Hanson Brothers' Mmmhops IPA, an Evel Knievel-branded beer and collegiate beers, including with the University of Illinois Fighting Illini. Plus, U.S. Beverage VP of brand development Kris Sjolander explains the importer and platform's sales and marketing partnership program. He also dives into what opportunities U.S. Beverage's contract brewing process offers to potential partners in the U.S. and beyond. U.S Beverage's partners include Uinta, Woodchuck Cider, Moosehead, Captain Lawerence and several others. Sjolander shares why he believes U.S. Beverage excels at distributor management, how the company is expanding its national accounts presence to meet its partners' needs and what types of brands benefit the most from partnering with the firm. Before the conversations, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and managing editor Jess Infante break down Tilray Brands' latest leadership shuffle and taproom closure, as well as quick thoughts on White Claw's dominance of hard seltzer and cutting its vodka-based canned cocktail line. Jess and Justin play Another Round or Tabbing Out on the elders' latest Generation Z gripe: forming a single-file line at the bar. They also talk about the Voodoo Ranger-Malört collaboration, Roulette IPA, where consumers risk getting a Malört-inspired IPA in a 6-pack.
At the heart of The Prophets' vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here Recorded live from the AIAG Supply Chain Conference in downtown Detroit, this episode captures real conversations with the people driving (and dealing with) supply chain change. With a fresh venue, new voices, and an unfiltered look at what's working (and what's not), the ASCP team dives into what's happening across the automotive supply chain, shaping the road ahead.The day starts with fresh eyes—Wayne State student John LaGarde shares what it's like attending his first supply chain conference. He's drawn in by the industry's complexity, but what stands out is his call for continuous learning and work-life balance—things Gen Z now expects, not just hopes for.Fred Coe, Chair of AIAG's EDI Advisory, gives an update on their latest EDI survey. 500 companies responded, and results show a split: some still use fax and email, while others have moved to APIs. The industry isn't aligned, but the interest in standardization is growing.Dr. Bing Xu from Catena-X shares what he heard at the event: companies are looking beyond old supply chain methods and focusing more on using data properly. He notes the interest in AI tools and stresses the need for fast implementation, especially with growing pressure from tariffs and supply chain instability.Then comes Sig Huber from Elm Analytics with a warning: uncertainty is paralyzing the industry. Companies aren't investing, demand is unclear, and policy changes continue. A 5% increase in the cost of goods could double the number of distressed suppliers. Whether demand rises or drops, disruption is coming.That pressure is already hitting the tier-two level. Jennifer Smith, VP of Supply Chain at Royal Technologies, explains how suppliers are stuck—OEMs want cost cuts, suppliers want margin. Her focus? Speeding up processes and getting actual context behind data. Suppliers need the "why" to make the right decisions—and that's still missing in too many places.Finally, Tanya Bolden from AIAG puts the day into perspective. The industry is changing fast. Mandates, electrification, decarbonization, and digital tools are all colliding at once. AIAG's job, she says, is to bring all those pieces to the table—while helping the next generation of professionals see that this isn't your grandfather's supply chain job.Themes discussed in this episode:The unpredictability and chaos of today's global tariff landscapeWhy AI and digital tools are now essential for managing supply chain complexityWhat the next generation of supply chain talent actually wants from employers—and why the industry needs to listenWhy transparency from OEMs matters more than ever to tier-two suppliersHow policy shifts and tariff uncertainty are paralyzing investment and planningThe risk of a bullwhip effect—and why the industry is still unprepared for sudden shifts in demandHow supply chain roles are evolving—and why the next generation needs to see that shiftFeatured guests:Name: John LaGardeTitle: Marketing and Global Supply Chain Student at Wayne State University - Mike Ilitch School of BusinessDiscussed: [03:04] First-time attendee John LaGarde shares what drew him to supply chain, what surprised him at the conference, and what today's students really want from employers. Name:
Peggy Smedley and Josué Velázquez, research scientist and lecturer, MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, talk about sustainability in supply chains. He says sustainability is part of MIT's core mission, which focuses on solving the problems of humanity. They also discuss: What happens in the sustainable supply chain lab. How generative AI is impacting the supply-chain sustainability conversation. How companies can approach Scope 3 emissions. josue.mit.edu (6/17/25 - 925) What You Might Have Missed: Build Resilient Businesses Smarter Manufacturing with Gen AI AI as a Collaborator IoT, Internet of Things, Peggy Smedley, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, digital transformation, cybersecurity, blockchain, 5G, cloud, sustainability, future of work, podcast, Josué Velázquez, MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics This episode is available on all major streaming platforms. If you enjoyed this segment, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts.
Today's guest is Yunke Xiang, Global Head of Data Science for Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality at Sanofi. Yunke joins Emerj Editorial Director Matthew DeMello to discuss the challenges that slow AI adoption in life sciences manufacturing, highlighting how fragmented data systems and legacy infrastructure create hurdles for AI initiatives. In this episode, Yunke explains how years of acquisitions and siloed data have made building a cohesive data foundation difficult, impacting AI's potential in manufacturing and supply chain optimization. Yunke shares Sanofi's approach to balancing build versus buy decisions for AI solutions and the critical role leadership plays in fostering an environment where data science can thrive. Yunke also reflects on the evolving landscape of AI in pharma manufacturing and the importance of strong governance and collaboration for successful implementation. Want to share your AI adoption story with executive peers? Click emerj.com/expert2 for more information and to be a potential future guest on the ‘AI in Business' podcast! Learn how brands work with Emerj and other Emerj Media options at emerj.com/ad1.
Stocks fall in afternoon trading as investors weigh intensifying Middle East risks, a looming budget showdown, and this week's Fed decision. Scott Wren of Wells Fargo says don't overreact to geopolitical headlines. Olaolu Aganga of Mercer offers the global CIO view on allocation right now. Market impact from DC from Pangaea Policy founder Terry Haines. Plus: MP Materials CEO Jim Litinsky joins exclusively to discuss why rare earths are national security assets, his company's stock surge and the supply chain.
In this conversation, Marshall and Nick discuss the complexities of Father's Day, the evolution of celebrations, and the changing landscape of automotive quality and detailing techniques. They explore the impact of supply chain issues on car manufacturing, the debate surrounding the use of steamers in detailing, and the importance of enzymes in cleaning. The discussion also touches on the need for the detailing industry to adapt to modern practices and the role of social media in shaping perceptions within the industry. In this conversation, Marshall and Nick delve into the impact of social media on perceptions within the detailing industry, particularly focusing on the misconceptions surrounding SDS sheets and product formulas. They emphasize the importance of common sense and critical thinking in navigating misinformation and trends. The discussion also touches on buyer's remorse, the fragmentation of the detailing industry, and the significance of consistent care in detailing practices.Chapters00:00 Father's Day Reflections03:13 The Evolution of Celebrations05:57 The Shift in Automotive Quality08:59 The Impact of Supply Chain on Car Manufacturing12:08 Detailing Techniques: The Steamer Debate15:07 The Role of Enzymes in Cleaning17:59 Industry Changes and Moving Forward21:05 Social Media and the Detailing Industry29:54 The Impact of Social Media on Perception30:13 Understanding SDS Sheets and Their Limitations32:20 The Misconceptions Surrounding Product Formulas35:05 Common Sense in the Age of Misinformation39:02 The Dangers of Following Trends Without Critical Thinking43:26 Fragmentation in the Detailing Industry48:13 Buyer's Remorse and the Search for Quick Fixes52:37 The Importance of Consistent Care in Detailing
Dive deep into the complex world of medical device supply chains with supply chain executive Simon Hinds. This comprehensive episode of the OnTrack Podcast explores the unique challenges of bringing life sciences products from development to market, including regulatory compliance, global sourcing strategies, and risk management in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. From tier-one to tier-three supplier relationships to the critical importance of traceability in medical manufacturing, Simon shares real-world insights on how companies navigate everything from tariff risks to pandemic-induced disruptions. Learn about the stark differences between pharmaceutical supply chains and other industries like automotive and consumer electronics, and discover why medical device companies face uniquely high barriers to entry when implementing global assembly strategies.
Is China's strategic push for chemical self-sufficiency reshaping the global petrochemical landscape? John Richardson, senior consultant at ICIS, joins The Chemical Show to share insights on how misjudged growth expectations for China, shifting demographics, and the rise of state-driven capacity expansions have led to the deepest, longest downturn in industry history. John and host Victoria Meyer examine why capacity was built around hopes for perpetual strong Chinese demand, only for real estate and demographic headwinds to alter the trajectory—creating a world of oversupply, negative margins, and mounting uncertainty. Their conversation covers the ongoing impact of trade tensions, the real drivers behind Chinese investment decisions, and why shutting down uneconomical assets is becoming a pressing necessity, especially in Europe and Asia. John and Victoria also weigh the challenges and promises of AI and data intelligence in a conservative, data-guarded sector, and offer advice for industry leaders navigating persistent market disruption. For chemical professionals, these perspectives highlight why adaptability, intelligence, and innovation will be critical in mastering both today's volatility and tomorrow's opportunities. Discover more about the following topics: How China's pivot from growth to self-sufficiency is reshaping global petrochemicals. Why chemicals face their worst business cycle ever, with Asian producers bleeding money on polyethylene. How tariffs and shifting policies create constant uncertainty for chemical companies. Why China's government-backed enterprises compete on strategy, not just cost. How data and artificial intelligence will separate industry winners from losers. “We've all assumed that polymer sciences are, you know, composites and stuff and playing with the same basic molecules, but maybe not.” — John Richardson 00:00 Chemical Industry Insights by John 06:08 Domestic Chemical Manufacturing Expansion 08:48 Polyethylene Margins: China vs. Middle East 11:31 Tariffs and Global Business Perspectives 14:43 China's Trade Resilience Amid Challenges 20:23 Data Sharing's Impact on AI 23:50 Debating Productivity's True Impact 26:34 AI: Industrial Revolution or Renaissance? 30:49 Innovative Multi-Pane Glass Advancements 31:43 Innovative, Stronger Glass Advances Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube ***Don't miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com
In this episode of The Chad & Cheese Podcast, hosts Chad Sowash and Joel Cheesman interview Patrick McGee, a former Financial Times reporter and author of Apple in China: The Capture of the World's Greatest Company. The discussion delves into McGee's book, which explores Apple's transformative relationship with China, its massive investments, and the unintended consequences for global tech and geopolitics. The interview covers McGee's research process, Apple's control over its narrative, the scale of its investments in China, and the broader implications for manufacturing, workforce development and U.S.-China relations. Timeline Just give me the main bullet points, without the Key Points and Key Points McGee's Background (00:29–02:08): McGee's Financial Times reporting in Hong Kong, Germany, and on Apple shaped Apple in China, focusing on China's authoritarianism, supply chains, and Apple's operations. Research Process (02:08–05:00): Over 200 interviews and 1,000+ pages of unreported Apple documents reveal novel insights into manufacturing, bypassing Apple's product-focused narrative. Apple's Narrative Control (05:00–08:31): Apple steers media toward product features, obscuring key figures like Isabel Gamahi and critical China operations. Apple's Investment (2013–2016) (08:31–15:16): Beijing's 2013 media attacks led to a $55 billion annual investment by 2015, with Cook's $275 billion pledge in 2016, likened to double the Marshall Plan. China's Workforce (Pre-2016) (15:16–17:08): Apple trained 28 million workers, enabling competitors like Huawei, with China realizing this impact in 2016. Apple vs. Other Tech (Pre-2016) (17:08–20:11): As a hardware company, Apple followed other electronics firms to China, unlike content-focused Google, Amazon, and Facebook. U.S. Oversight (2016–Present) (20:11–24:32): U.S. was unaware of Apple's investments; Apple's training model could inspire U.S. vocational revival. Automation Challenges (Present) (24:32–30:06): China's dominance in materials and robotics makes U.S. onshoring unlikely; tariffs disrupt without solutions. Vocational Training (Present) (30:06–33:58): Apple's China training, akin to Germany's system, empowered Chinese firms; U.S. could adopt similar models. Geopolitical Outlook (Present–2025) (33:58–39:02): India's role is limited; China's manufacturing dominance persists, with Apple's AI lag adding risk. EVs and China's Lead (2019–Present) (39:02–42:46): Tesla's 2019 operations boosted China's EV dominance; West struggles with battery supply chain control. Book Promotion (42:46–43:37): Apple in China available on Amazon, Bookshop.org, Apple Books; appleinchina.com offers more details.
A new report identifies 4 critical minerals to be high-priority sectors under UFLPA. Listen for more on Two Minutes in Trade.
In this episode of The Tech Trek, Amir sits down with Matt Moore, CTO and co-founder of Chainguard, to explore the escalating importance of software supply chain security. From Chainguard's origin story at Google to the systemic risks enterprises face when consuming open source, Matt shares the lessons, best practices, and technical innovations that help make open source software safer and more reliable. The conversation also touches on AI's impact on the attack surface, mitigating threats with engineering rigor, and why avoiding long-lived credentials could be your best defense.
It seems tariffs and supply chain issues have fallen from the top news headlines, but in reality, businesses both big and small are dealing with them every day. This afternoon on the Jon Sanchez Show at 3pm, we'll be joined by Dr. Robyn Brunscher and Assistant Research Professor, Frederick Steinmann both from UNR to discuss how businesses are surviving in these unknown tariff times.
TakeawaysRetailers are increasingly investing in technology and transformation.Store intelligence technology is crucial for operational efficiency.AI and automation are addressing major retail challenges.Visibility into store operations is lacking for many retailers.Robotics and AI are becoming essential in physical stores.Employee satisfaction improves with the adoption of technology.Retail media networks are evolving rapidly in the industry.Understanding the root cause of shrink is vital for retailers.Data-driven decision-making is key to optimizing operations.The future of retail is leaning toward an AI-first approach. Chapters00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data01:37 The Evolution of In-Store Retail Technology03:24 The Impact of Technology on Retail Operations07:22 Understanding Store Intelligence and Its Benefits11:21 The Role of Robotics and AI in Retail15:56 Connecting Data to Business Processes18:28 Enhancing Employee Satisfaction and Customer Experience20:05 The Importance of Visibility in Store Operations22:51 Addressing Shrink and Inefficiencies in Retail25:00 The Rise of Retail Media Networks30:38 The Future of Retail Technology and AI Read the latest annual study from Coresight Research and Simbe, published in June 2025, to dive into the dawn of new-age stores.
What will it take to recover more critical materials when demand is growing and recovery systems aren't keeping up? With the growing deployment of solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and data centers, demand for metals and minerals is rising fast. But current systems for recovering and reusing these materials are limited, inefficient, or missing entirely. In this episode, Aly Bryan, Senior Member of the investment team at Closed Loop Partners' Venture Group, explains why critical materials have become a central topic in the circular economy. She introduces the concepts of small-loop and large-loop circularity, discusses the role of modular recovery infrastructure, and shares why relying on large, centralized processing facilities may no longer be the most effective approach. Aly also explores how circular startups can work within existing supply chains and why reverse logistics is essential to making recovery work at scale. This episode is part of VC for Circularity - the Venture Capital Perspective on Circular Economy Startups.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes back Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to explore what sets the supply chain Masters apart from the rest. With companies like Amazon, Apple, Procter & Gamble, and Unilever topping the list, Mike unpacks the leadership behaviors, strategic investments, and operational models that have helped them sustain excellence year over year.From Amazon's $4 billion bet on rural delivery infrastructure to Apple's global shift in manufacturing strategy, the discussion reveals how today's top performers stay adaptive and resilient in the face of change. Mike also spotlights how inclusive design and sustainable packaging are redefining product development at P&G, and how Unilever is leaning into startup partnerships to accelerate innovation at scale.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:16) Kicking off with a fun fact(03:23) VHS memories and video rentals(07:25) Gartner supply chain top 25 overview(11:04) Amazon's major investment in dural Delivery(17:18) Apple's production shift to india and vietnam(22:34) P&G's innovations and the power of packaging(28:56) Unilever's 100+ accelerator program(34:49) Upcoming Gartner planning summits(35:22) Why attend the planning summits(38:12) Connecting with Mike GriswoldAdditional Links & ResourcesConnect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/ Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now's NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9qWEBINAR- In Chaos We Create: Bridging the Critical Raw Materials Gap Through Strategic Convergence: https://bit.ly/459BzIQWEBINAR- Tariff Watch - Unpacking the Latest Updates: https://bit.ly/3FvL2zNWEBINAR- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/masterful-supply-chain-leadership-apple-amazon-unilever-1442
Learn more about Lisa or follow her at: https://www.refashiond.com/https://www.instagram.com/lisahellebo/https://www.youtube.com/@refashiondventureshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/supplychainlocalization/ Show Notes Timestamps:0:00 Introduction to B2B Podcast3:53 Little Lisa has been obsessed with fashion and how things are made.
Send me a messageHey everyone, Tom Raftery here.Just a quick note to let you know that Sustainable Supply Chain is taking a short break this week. I'm recharging the batteries and preparing a fresh lineup of episodes packed with insights on ESG, circularity, digital transformation, and decarbonisation.I'll be back next Monday June 22nd at 7am CEST with brand new content, but in the meantime, there's a wealth of previous episodes you can dive into. Whether you're interested in reducing scope 3 emissions, leveraging AI for supply chain transparency, or rethinking procurement models, it's all there in the archive.And if this podcast has been valuable to you, please consider becoming a supporter - for just €3 or $3 a month, you can help keep the show going and growing. The link to support the podcast is below.Thanks for listening, and talk to you soon!
Ever wonder why your projected supply chain savings don't always show up the way you expected on the financial statements? On this episode of Power Supply, we welcome Doug van Houten, Strategic Consultant-Materials at Multiview Financial Software, to break down key finance and accounting concepts that can help supply chain professionals work more effectively with their finance teams. From double-entry accounting and ERP transaction timing to accounts payable procedures that can make or break vendor relationships, Doug shares the key concepts that transformed his effectiveness as a supply chain leader and eliminated costly miscommunications with finance teams. If you're looking to strengthen your finance knowledge or improve collaboration between departments, tune in today to discover how Doug's expert insights can help you bridge the gap between supply chain operations and financial performance! Once you complete the interview, jump on over to the link below to take a short quiz and download your CEC certificate for .5 CECs! – https://www.flexiquiz.com/SC/N/ps14-07 #PowerSupply #Podcast #AHRMM #HealthcareSupplyChain #Finance #Accounting #Leadership
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran and how the energy sector is under focus. Are supply chains in danger of cracking again? The Fed on hold leaves Wall Street asking what it will take to cut interest rates. Red vs Blue is dividing stock portfolios like never before. Nations head to the G-7 hoping to reach trade deals with Trump.
Trent is broadcast from the front of Charles Schwab Stadium home of the College World Series happening right now. Folks will spend $130 million dollars in Omaha and how many are aware of the economic crash coming?
How do you build trust in a world where proof matters more than promises?In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with MeiLin Wan, VP at GenuTrace, to explore how DNA technology is revolutionizing transparency in fashion, agriculture, and global supply chains. From verifying organic cotton to holding brands accountable for their sourcing claims, MeiLin shares how traceability is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity.Tune in to discover how science, sustainability, and ethics intersect—and why traceability is quickly becoming the gold standard for purpose-driven business.
Our guest on this week's episode is Brett Wood, Chair this year of the Industrial Truck Association (better known as the ITA). In his daytime job, Brett is the President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling North America. This past Tuesday, the material handling industry recognized the 12th annual National Forklift Safety Day. Sponsored by ITA, the highlight of the day was a series of presentations on safety held at the National Press Club in Washington DC. Wood speaks about the event held this week and the importance and impacts of safety programs.Carriers looking to fill driver positions need to act faster when they identify candidates and ensure that their hiring process is efficient, according to a new report from truck driving technology platform Tenstreet. They found that carriers in their network that responded to driver applications within five minutes see a 6.2% hiring rate, which is nearly double the platform average of 3.7%.—so that speaks to the need for fast action. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has launched a new program called the Initiative for New Manufacturing (INM). The goal is to help transform the nation's industrial base by advancing the future of “new manufacturing,” alongside ideas in workforce training, advanced technologies, and industry collaboration. The initiative includes a group of six founding industry consortium members, who are Amgen, Flex, GE Vernova, PTC, Sanofi, and Siemens. Supply Chain Xchange also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane. It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Industrial Truck AssociationSpeed is critical when hiring truck driversMIT program on new manufacturing adds contract manufacturer FlexVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Storage SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY
Tiger Talk Podcast by Northeast Mississippi Community College
In this week's episode of the award-winning Tiger Talk podcast, join Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery as Ford gives listeners a look into the behind-the-scenes world of Northeast and some of the things that people may not know about one of the nation's top community colleges. Ford discusses some of the hidden gems and begins the podcast by giving credit to the facilities and maintenance staff for the way they present the campus every day. Plus, stay updated on the latest in athletics, academics, workforce development, and more at one of the nation's premier community colleges. For those who may have missed an episode, all Northeast TigerTalk episodes are archived at https://nemcctigertalk.simplecast.com.--NEMCC--Information about Northeast Mississippi Community CollegeNortheast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields.For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.
Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast!In this episode our hosts Barry O'Kane and Tandi Tuakli are joined by Ryan Atkins, the co-founder and CEO of Supercycle - a circular commerce platform that enables rental and resale natively in Shopify.Ryan explains that scaling circular business models depends on overcoming integration challenges between physical product flows (repair, refurbishment, cleaning) and digital commerce (Shopify, customer experience). In this conversation we learn that while platforms like Supercycle can provide the core technology and integration "pipes," each brand has unique requirements in logistics, customer experience, product flows, and back office systems.Ryan also discusses collaborations with specialist partners, from 3PLs that can handle circular operations to integration and professional services partners that allow brands to tailor and scale their circular offerings. Without this ecosystem of enablers, it would be impossible to support the variety of customer journeys that circular models demand. Tune in to learn more about how circularity is reshaping e-commerce, the technology driving it, and why strong partnerships are the foundation of successful circular systems!This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. Our podcast focuses mostly on: Circular Economy, Digital Enablers, Technology, Software, Circular Solutions, Fashion & Textiles, Circular Strategies, Digital, Reuse, Circular Design, Circularity, Systems Thinking, Economics, Data, Platforms, Degrowth, Policy & Regulation, Collaboration, Materials, Supply Chain, Biological Cycles, Materials, Food Waste, Biomimicry, Construction, Modular Design, Culture & Language, Zero Waste, Digital Passports, Life Cycle Assessment, Recycling, Reverse Logistics, Materials, Sharing Economy, Manufacturing, Efficiency, Environmental Impact and much more!
This week: Olivia Dobson, director of climate and resilience at Verisk Maplecroft, joins Ian Welsh to explore interconnected supply chain risks, the shift toward enterprise-level risk consideration, and emerging challenges around supply chain visibility. They examine how geopolitical uncertainties, regulatory compliance and data management are reshaping sourcing strategies. Plus: Ulla Hueppe, vice president of sustainability at Henkel, talks with Ian at the recent scope 3 event in Amsterdam, about engaging suppliers on emissions reduction, creating transparency in supply chain data, and balancing the cost of change versus inaction. And: major food firms fall short on real emissions cuts, and consumers want sustainable fashion but high price hinders, in the news digest. Host: Ian Welsh
➡️ Like The Podcast? Leave A Rating: https://ratethispodcast.com/successstory In this "Lessons" episode, Paul Rice, CEO of Fair Trade USA, exposes the brutal reality behind global supply chains—where over 60% of cocoa comes from West Africa and child labor is tragically common due to poverty and lack of education. Learn how fair trade programs empower farmers to build schools, reduce child labor, and uplift entire communities, how small consumer choices can spark massive change, and why ethical sourcing isn't charity—it's just smart, responsible business that creates lasting impact.➡️ Show Linkshttps://successstorypodcast.com YouTube: https://youtu.be/orzbIcIxHYw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-rice-fairtrade-pioneer-social-entrepreneur-how/id1484783544 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1T0KBexiBRyhDGWUxfbRdi ➡️ Watch the Podcast on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/scottdclary See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
During this episode, Santosh is joined by Joel Wayment, VP and GM of 3PL logistics at Cardinal Health. Joel provides an in-depth exploration of pharmaceutical cold chain logistics, highlighting the critical evolution of medical product transportation. He discusses how emerging technologies, sustainability efforts, and innovative packaging solutions are transforming the supply chain, particularly for ultra-sensitive medical products like cell and gene therapies. Joel also emphasizes the importance of minimizing product touches, leveraging AI and data insights, and creating environmentally friendly shipping solutions. Key takeaways include the role of technology in improving supply chain visibility, the impact of disruptions like COVID-19 on logistics innovation, the ongoing challenge of getting critical medical products safely and efficiently from manufacturers to patients, and so much more. Highlights from their conversation include:Cardinal Health Overview (1:10)Joel's Background and Journey (1:58)Evolution of Cold Chain Logistics (2:49)Advancements in Packaging Solutions (4:43)Visibility and Transparency in Shipping (5:40)Patient-Centric Approaches (7:30)Monitoring Product Conditions (9:20)Sustainability in Packaging (11:14)Consolidation and Optimization Strategies (14:52)Lessons from Supply Chain Disruptions (16:41)Balancing Regulation and Flexibility (19:40)Data Insights for Accountability (21:46)The Role of AI in Logistics (24:45)Proactive Decision-Making with Data (26:54)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (28:13)Dynamo is a VC firm led by supply chain and mobility specialists that focus on seed-stage, enterprise startups.Find out more at: https://www.dynamo.vc/
In this RSA Conference 2025 special episode, we explore two critical frontiers shaping the future of cybersecurity. First, Jon DiMaggio (Author of The Ransomware Diaries, Analyst1) breaks down the hidden supply chains behind ransomware gangs, including the economics of affiliate betrayal and the challenge of accurate attribution. He walks us through his methodology for identifying ransomware rebrands like BlackCat and RansomHub using evidence-based frameworks designed to eliminate human bias. Then we're joined by Matt Radolec (VP of Incident Response at Varonis), who brings a fresh perspective on talent development in cybersecurity. Drawing from his keynote "From Gamer to Leader", Matt argues that gamers possess untapped potential as cybersecurity professionals and it's time to design leadership pipelines like quest lines. From ransomware negotiations on underground forums to using AI-enhanced playbooks and transforming threat response teams into RPG-style guilds, this episode blends technical insight with cultural reflection.
Remember when eCommerce was going to revolutionize B2B sales? Twenty years in, only a handful of channels have capitalized on the initial promise. But distributors aren't to blame for the operational failure, says Justin Johnson, Founder of Motivate. He maintains that the major e-commerce platforms should bear the blame. They failed to grasp that most orders are placed from the job site via mobile, a recurring purchase order, or a list scribbled on a piece of drywall. Jason spoke with Justin about his company's innovative plug-and-play order processing solution, a PO-to-cart widget that works with the software distributors already own. It can even convert images into orders with incredible accuracy. CONNECT WITH JASON LinkedIn CONNECT WITH JUSTIN LinkedIn Motivate *** For full show notes and services visit: https://www.distributionteam.com Distribution Talk is produced by The Distribution Team, a consulting services firm dedicated to helping wholesale distribution clients remove barriers to profitability, generate wealth, and achieve personal goals. This episode was edited by The Creative Impostor Studios Special thanks to our sponsors for this episode: Connected Peers, providing virtual communities for wholesale distributors; and INxSQL Distribution Software, an integrated distribution ERP software designed for the wholesale and distribution industry.
This episode explores:Maria Pia De Caro's approach to making her team “agility champions” that can rebuild and reimagine supply chain structures to support business goals. (1:32)Pernod Ricard's three pillars of supply chain productivity in today's evolving trade environment. (4:51)Balancing talent specialization and generalization across the supply chain. (11:14)Actionable advice for CSCOs navigating today's VUCA business environment. (16:38)Host Thomas O'Connor discusses Pernod Ricard's approach to supply chain productivity and agility with Maria Pia De Caro, the organization's EVP of integrated operations and sustainability and responsibility (S&R). They explore adjusting supply chain operations to deliver on business fundamentals like service, cost and cash, as well as how Pernod Ricard drives productivity in today's VUCA environment. They close the show with recommendations for CSCOs around boardroom communications that make the business stronger, more agile and faster in an environment where speed is crucial.Gartner clients interested in finding out more about this topic can access the following:Survive and Grow in This Volatile Tariff-Driven EconomyCSCOs Can Improve Their Influence With C-Suite StakeholdersAbout the Guest:Maria Pia De Caro is a seasoned leader in integrated operations and S&R, boasting over 25 years of global experience in supply chain and operations. Throughout her distinguished career, she has spearheaded multifaceted teams focused on engineering, manufacturing, M&A and supply chain innovation across renowned FMCG enterprises. Maria Pia's journey includes pivotal roles at Procter & Gamble, Mondelez, Unilever and Nomad Foods in diverse locations such as Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, China and the U.K., before bringing her expertise to Pernod Ricard Group in 2023.
Mark Ang, Co-Founder and CEO of GoBolt, a tech-driven logistics company building the largest sustainable last-mile delivery and fulfillment network across North America joins Enterprise … Read more The post Inside the 2025 Logistics Report: What's Driving the Next Supply Chain Shift appeared first on Top Entrepreneurs Podcast | Enterprise Podcast Network.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1066: Today we're looking at the May economic data from Cox Automotive, how Lucid is reducing its dependence on foreign battery materials and how Meta has increased its ad revenue without increasing volume through targeting.Show Notes with links:May's economic and automotive data show a market adjusting to tighter consumer budgets and lingering workforce shifts. Retail remains steady, but pricing sensitivity is driving realignment in both new and used inventory strategies.Employers added 139K jobs in May, topping forecasts, but downward revisions led to a net 95K job loss.Auto dealer employment rose by 2,100 jobs, though it's still 1.1% below pre-COVID levels.New-vehicle SAAR dropped to 15.6M in May, down from 17.8M in April. Retail SAAR outpaced last year's.Incentives averaged $3,297—the highest discounting level in five years, and the average price paid dropped to 95.7% of MSRP.Used-vehicle sales dipped 3% month-over-month, but are up 4% year-over-yearWith all the buzz around China's dominance of EV battery raw materials, Lucid surprised us with a plan to source all of its materials domestically.Lucid's agreement with Graphite One kicks off natural graphite production in 2028 from Alaska's Graphite Creek site.They've layered this with a 2024 synthetic graphite deal and a 2026 supply agreement with Syrah Resources in Louisiana.All three deals align with IRA requirements, boosting eligibility for EV tax credits and reducing reliance on China, which supplies 90%+ of the world's anode materials.Graphite One's Ohio facility will produce enough anode material for up to 2 million EVs per year.Lucid's Interim CEO said the U.S.-focused strategy “supports our efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of our vehicles.”Meta might be all-in on Gen Z vibes, but it's the boomers and Gen Xers footing the bill. A new Barclays report reveals that older Facebook users see far more ads—because they're the ones clicking.Facebook shows more ads to users aged 45+ due to higher purchasing power.Those aged 45-54 see the highest ad load at 22%; teens only see 4.3%.Dynamic ad tech like Andromeda and Lattice tailors volume by user value.97% of Meta's revenue comes from ads.Meta has actually increased ad revenue without upping total ad volume by targeting high-value users—a shift analysts call “arguably the most bullish development.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
Performance is taking center stage in the beauty and personal care ingredients sector, as revealed on the floor of NYSCC Suppliers Day 2025. Host Victoria Meyer explores the notable shift away from buzzwords like “sustainability” and “natural,” uncovering how companies are reframing their focus towards innovation, plant-based solutions, and advanced product performance. Victoria is joined by John Harrold of Zinco Verde, who discusses novel, energy-efficient zinc oxide for sunscreens, and Christoph Krumm of Sironix Renewables, highlighting breakthroughs in bio-based surfactants derived from agricultural waste. The conversation unpacks how trends like neurocosmetics, microbiomes, and a pragmatic approach to environmental benefits are shaping the industry's direction. Get a first-hand perspective on what's driving R&D, purchasing, and consumer choices in today's dynamic beauty ingredient market. Gain insights on the following topics: Innovation Takes Center Stage: Companies are pivoting away from buzzwords like “sustainability” and “natural,” putting real innovation and performance at the heart of product development. Neurocosmetics and Microbiome Science and how new ingredients target mood and neurological benefits alongside appearance, while microbiome-friendly formulations gain traction. Sustainability Reconsidered: Companies shift from "sustainability" rhetoric to pragmatic solutions and value-driven innovation. Plant-Based Performance: Industry messaging replaces "natural" with "plant-based" and "performance”. Start-up leaders discuss bringing advanced technologies to market Killer Quote: “If you had asked me this when we spun out as a company, I would have told you bio based is the innovation, right? That is the reason for existing. That's really not the case. As we found. Bio based ingredients matter. People still want them. The reason for existing for us is performance.” — Christoph Krumm, CEO of Sironix 0:00:24 Bonnie's career in chemicals 0:02:51 Responsible Care principles at Evonik 0:04:20 Sustainability's growing importance. 0:05:13 Evonik's sustainability pillars: next-generation solutions, technology, and culture. 0:06:34 Customer demand for sustainable solutions 0:08:29 The importance of culture in driving change 0:13:49 Leadership and career lessons, women in leadership roles, Bonnie's career advice ***Don't miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com Wondering how we produce our podcast? We use Transistor to publish our podcast. Check it out here: https://transistor.fm/?via=victoria We use CastMagic.io to create ShowNotes, Newsletters, Social Media posts and more. Check it out here: https://get.castmagic.io/ean5etivmzi1 We use Descript to edit and transcribe each podcast episode. Follow this link to learn more: https://get.descript.com/j0hyfup4gm0t
We connect with Jason Hehman, leader of Industry 4.0 at TXI, to understand the use of digital twins in supply chains operations — how they help manufacturers predict and manage supply chain disruptions and assess the impact of raw material shortages or logistics delays, and we explore the key data sources manufacturers need to build an effective supply chain digital twin.
Shane McMurray - How do tariffs and supply chain issues affect wedding businesses?What if your costs doubled overnight? What happens to your business when tariffs and supply chain issues change in a heartbeat? Are you relying too much on a single supplier? In this episode, I talk about the unpredictable nature of tariffs, how they impact different segments of the wedding industry—from bridal shops to service providers—and what proactive steps you can take, like contract updates and diversifying your supply chain, to stay resilient in uncertain times.Listen to this new episode for practical ideas on protecting your business, managing costs, and preparing your contracts for sudden market shifts.About Shane:Shane helps businesses grow profits, attract qualified leads, refine pricing, close more sales, and uncover key opportunities using unbiased, independent research on the wedding market. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, NPR, and more, and is trusted by government agencies, investors, and researchers. With a B.S. in IT, an MBA in E-Business, and over 30 years' experience in data and 20 years in wedding industry research, he deliver insights that identify your core customer and sharpen your marketing strategy.Link: https://wedding.report/Contact Shane: LinkedIn - Shane McMurrayText or call 520-906-8025If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan's site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Are you going to Wedding MBA? Use the promo code - Alan - to save $20 off your tickets, at www.WeddingMBA.com And don't worry, if you can't use your tickets this year, they're transferrable or you can hold them to use next year. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I had a cracking chat with René Schrama, Chief Commercial Officer at Peak Technologies. We dug into the evolving landscape of supply chain automation and what it truly means to “leverage automation intelligently” today.René shared how supply chain leaders are moving beyond full-scale automation projects and instead focusing on targeted improvements that actually matter. We explored why finding even six seconds to save in a warehouse process can add up to real gains, and how the Kaizen approach remains a solid guiding principle for continuous improvement.We didn't shy away from the challenges, either. René highlighted the impact of geopolitical disruptions like tariffs and shifting trade policies, and why adapting supply chain strategies has become more critical than ever.A big takeaway for me? Automation isn't about replacing people, it's about striking the right balance between human creativity and machine precision. We also discussed the importance of designing out waste, re-harvesting resources, and why open systems, not closed silos, are key to future-proofing operations.If you're in supply chain, sustainability, or digital transformation, this one's worth a listen. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts, or on my website at https://www.sustainablesupplychainpodcast.com/#SupplyChain #Sustainability #Automation #Kaizen #IntelligentAutomation #PodcastElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain' podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.
What You'll LearnWhat “agility” actually means in global supply chainsHow Tapestry integrates AI into allocation and planningReal examples of ESG in manufacturing (clean water, solar power)Why craftsmanship can't be rushed—and why that mattersThe role of customer feedback in design and operationsStore vs. DC: how fulfillment strategy adapts for luxuryHow to marry finance discipline with operational innovationHighlights[00:00:00] What is an agile supply chain in 2025?[00:03:59] Leading with a global, on-the-ground perspective[00:05:00] From data to design: listening to Gen Z[00:14:05] Craftsmanship takes years, not months[00:21:08] How Tapestry embeds sustainability in sourcing[00:24:13] Fulfillment automation, unboxing, and store pickup[00:29:20] AI's role in cutting weeks off lead time[00:32:52] Final thoughts + where to follow VincentQuotes[00:00:00] “An agile supply chain is just a supply chain that's evolving with time. We need to be where customers are.” — Vincent Golebiowski[00:05:00] “We used to design for design. Now, in 2025, the customer is more demanding. We need to listen more to the customer.” — Vincent Golebiowski[00:14:49] “You cannot build craftsmanship in a few months. It takes years to build a handbag factory to deliver the quality we need.” — Vincent Golebiowski[00:23:00] “Our partner tanneries clean the water so it's even cleaner than what they were using. That makes me happy.” — Vincent GolebiowskiAbout the GuestVincent Golebiowski is SVP of Global Supply Chain Operations and CFO of Supply Chain at Tapestry, the global house of brands behind Coach, Kate Spade, and Stuart Weitzman. With prior leadership roles across L'Oréal and deep experience in Asia, Vincent brings a rare blend of financial rigor and supply chain fluency to leading resilient, customer-driven, and sustainable global operations.https://www.linkedin.com/company/tapestryinc/https://www.tapestry.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vincentgolebiowski/ Subscribe and Keep Learning!If you're a logistics leader looking to scale sustainably, don't miss out! Subscribe for more expert strategies on tackling modern supply chain challenges.Be sure to follow and tag the eCom Logistics Podcast on LinkedIn and YouTube
What's the real reason most digital transformation projects fail—and what are successful leaders doing differently? In this episode, Natalie welcomes Ron Crabtree, founder and CEO of MetaOps and MetaExperts. With over 30 years of experience in operations, supply chain, and digital transformation, Ron shares hard-earned insights from his work across industries—from automotive to tech to manufacturing consulting. He explains how emerging technologies like AI and automation are impacting supply chains and operational models, why change management is often an afterthought, and how organizations can better equip leaders and teams to embrace complexity. This conversation offers a practical lens into strategic leadership, future-proofing skill sets, and executing transformation in high-stakes environments.[00:01 - 05:00] From Disney to Digital: Ron's BackstoryWhy understanding operations from the ground up shaped Ron's leadership approachHow 17 years of night school played into his move from the factory floor to executive strategyWhat it looks like to build companies that solve real pain points in workforce transformation[05:01 - 10:46] AI Meets Supply ChainThe importance of using AI as an assistant—not a replacement—for strategic thinkingWhy decision support powered by AI improves outcomes without eliminating human judgmentThe significance of having clean, real-time data before relying on automation[10:47 - 15:50] Digital Tools in ActionWhat reverse market platforms reveal about the speed and productivity gains in procurementWhy modeling cost impacts across the supply chain leads to stronger sourcing strategiesThe need for transparency and quick “what-if” modeling when responding to market changes[15:51 - 20:37] The Pitfalls of Digital TransformationWhat most companies overlook when mapping processes for tech adoptionWhy value stream mapping and activity-based costing are crucial to measuring ROIThe importance of business process management and people-first transformation[20:38 - 26:16] Leadership's Role in ChangeWhy alignment on the "why" must happen before executing the "how"What skills future leaders must develop to lead digital, complex ecosystemsThe need for tech fluency across departments—not just IT leadershipQuotes:"Worker plus AI will always outperform worker without AI." - Ron Crabtree"You can't check out and expect AI to do your thinking. Someone still needs to think critically and question what's missing." - Ron CrabtreeConnect with Ron:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roncrabtreeLEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.coThese are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!
LifeBlood: We talked about improving medical supply chain, the harsh realities of the number of lives lost every year to medical error, how much waste exists in the sector, and why it's so important for physicians to be involved in this process, with Dr. Jimmy Chung, Board Certified Surgeon, and Chief Medical Officer with Advantus Health Partners. Listen to learn about what physician preference items are and why it matters! You can learn more about Jimmy at AdvantusHP.com and Linkedin. Thanks, as always for listening! If you got some value and enjoyed the show, please leave us a review here: https://ratethispodcast.com/lifebloodpodcast You can learn more about us at LifeBlood.Live, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook or you'd like to be a guest on the show, contact us at contact@LifeBlood.Live. Stay up to date by getting our monthly updates. Want to say “Thanks!” You can buy us a cup of coffee. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeblood Copyright LifeBlood 2025.