2 Babes Talk Supply Chain

Holly Pearce talks about her career so far; the changing landscape of logistics; swapping teaching for studying; and why she’s a self-confessed supply chain champion. Plus, she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in supply chain, as well as her words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps [04.55] Yifat’s entrepreneurial journey and why she co-founded Osa. [08.40] The current landscape of e-commerce, and how it has changed over the past few years. [10.14] An overview of Osa – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers. [11.53] The ideal client for Osa. [13.48] A closer look at the Osa platform, and the different ways that customers can engage with it.    [15.18] From data-driven decision-making to risk management, how Osa are using #ai to deliver big benefits for their clients. [16.55] A case study detailing how Osa helped a key client to achieve connectivity, helping them to access new markets quickly and efficiently, reduce their #logistics costs by 15% and in

Martin Lew talks about Commtrex and what they do; the challenges and opportunities in rail; empowering shippers through choice and connectivity; and why transloading is the future of the industry. [06.00] Martin’s background and his vision for Commtrex. [08.34] Why businesses move freight by rail and the key opportunities within this mode. [11.18] The evolution of Commtrex; the major shift happening in the workforce; how these generational changes impact rail; and the importance of technology in bridging the gap. [17.24] The ideal client for Commtrex.  [22.18] How Commtrex helps their clients to move into new markets and diversify, saving one brand 18-22% across each lane and giving leverage to shippers struggling with carrier service levels. [29.22] What onboarding and integration look like with Commtrex, and the infrastructure fundamentals to consider when using rail. [35.08] A closer look at Commtrex’s consulting services. [38.35] Sustainability and the positive impact of rail. [41.24] The future for Commt

Rik Walters tells us all about GoFreight; visibility, and its impact on margins; creating memorable customer experiences; and leveling the playing field for SMBs [07.34] An overview of GoFreight – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers. [09.05] The ideal client for GoFreight. [10.43] How GoFreight was founded with small and medium-sized businesses in mind, and why it’s so important to empower smaller brands to make it easier to start, run and grow businesses. [14.47] A closer look at GoFreight’s freight forwarding management software, and the key customer benefits. [19.03] GoFreight’s container tracking system, the visibility it brings for its customers and customers’ customers, and the impact of that visibility at a business level. [22.52] The impact of demurrage, detention, and per diem fines on squeezed margins, and how GoFreight can help reduce fines and maximize this area of opportunity. [24.57] Why GoFreight values ‘customer obsession’ and ‘customer trust’, why focusing on custom

The panel discusses what seniority means to them; how it differs from leadership; the importance of job titles; & their experiences of good and bad leadership.

Bill Catania talks about OneRail; the challenges & opportunities around capacity; & why he believes that technology can’t change all outcomes, but people can[06.16] Bill’s entrepreneurial journey and the shopping experience that led him to establish OneRail. [08.30] The concept behind the name ‘OneRail,’ and the expertise and fresh perspectives being injected into supply chain by people coming in from other industries - just like Bill. [11.18] The ideal client for OneRail. [13.54] The key challenges OneRail customers are facing, and how OneRail develops solutions to tackle them. [15.13] A closer look at OneRail’s integrated network and its benefits. [16.04] The challenges and #opportunities around capacity; building partnerships that meet a need; and how OneRail operates as a true extension of its customers. [22.18] What visibility means to OneRail; the importance of creating the best customer experiences; and how OneRail is helping clients to evolve their fulfillment infrastructures to provide an Ama

Brian Bourke talks about how the pandemic changed last mile delivery – the challenges; opportunities; & how SEKO is enhancing customer experience [06.49] An introduction to Brian and SEKO. [08.20] How the pandemic impacted supply chain, boosted #e-commerce, and changed #last-mile delivery forever. [10.32] The importance of real-time feedback, like reviews and star ratings; and how that customer experience data is pulling supply chain teams together with other business areas, such as marketing and finance, to enhance collaboration and improve strategy. [12.56] A closer look at the emerging market trends for 2023, and the reverse bullwhip effect the industry is experiencing as it settles, post-pandemic. [16.53] From diversifying sourcing to improved #collaboration, what companies can do to prepare themselves for the unexpected. [21.02] The power of #partnership; why it can bring benefits across multiple business areas other than just supply chain; and what it’s like to partner with SEKO. [26.18] The importa

Seretha Willingham talks about her career; swapping the corporate world for entrepreneurship; scaling a business during a pandemic; & the secret to her success [06.49] An introduction to Brian and SEKO. [08.20] How the pandemic impacted supply chain, boosted #e-commerce, and changed #last-mile delivery forever. [10.32] The importance of real-time feedback, like reviews and star ratings; and how that customer experience data is pulling supply chain teams together with other business areas, such as marketing and finance, to enhance collaboration and improve strategy. [12.56] A closer look at the emerging market trends for 2023, and the reverse bullwhip effect the industry is experiencing as it settles, post-pandemic. [16.53] From diversifying sourcing to improved #collaboration, what companies can do to prepare themselves for the unexpected. [21.02] The power of #partnership; why it can bring benefits across multiple business areas other than just supply chain; and what it’s like to partner with SEKO. [26.1

Richard White talks about WiseTech; his entrepreneurial journey; visibility; growth through acquisition; and his vision for the industry [07.23] An introduction to WiseTech and its vision for the industry. [09.10] The ideal customer for WiseTech, and why scale breeds success. [10.57] An overview of Richard’s entrepreneurial journey, how he founded WiseTech, and why he decided that this brand would be his “forever job.” [14.11] How Richard created WiseTech’s credo, and why workplace culture is so important. [18.18] How the pandemic changed the industry, why WiseTech were so quick to adapt, and how they are helping customers to navigate the current challenges of the ‘new normal.’ [23.07] A closer look at CargoWise, and the many and varied ways it is helping customers. [26.43] How CargoWise helped DHL to reduce their Information Systems costs by around 200 million euros per year, and DSV to dramatically grow their company through quick and successful mergers and acquisitions. [31.03] Why the CargoWise Partner Pr

The panel discusses emotional recovery; share their experiences & words of advice; and reflects on how we can open up conversations to better support others.

Sharon Manker talks about her career; finding community through education; advocating for change unapologetically; and successful supplier diversity programs [07.29] Sharon’s childhood career ambition, and how she inherited her impressive drive and passion from her mother. [08.59] Sharon’s ongoing learning journey, the importance of education, and how it led her to supply chain. [15.10] Sharon’s role as Director of Supplier Diversity at Radian, and her plans to bring data-driven, innovative initiatives to the industry. [15.56] The current challenges within supplier diversity, and the importance of advocates in bridging the gap to bring large corporates and small diverse businesses together. [22.41] How Sharon became a contributing author to Drexel University Black Alumni Council’s unique book "A Legacy to Share," and a sneak peek at her upcoming book. [25.10] Sharon discusses Juneteenth – what it is, why it’s so important, and what she’s doing to mark the occasion this year. [30.36] Why Sharon is so passionat

Jonas Krumland chats about Logward; improving relationships through integration; and the importance of changing mindsets, as well as building great software [07.24] Jonas's background, and why he founded Logward in 2018. [09.56] What has, and hasn’t, changed in the last five years, and a look at today’s key challenges and trends. [12.03] An overview of Logward – what they do, how they help their customers, and their approach to technology integration and onboarding. [18.22] The ideal customer for Logward. [22.23] A closer look at Logward’s Sourcing Solutions - what they do, the key features, and benefits. [25.17] From #capacity to forecasting, how Logward’s Procurement Solutions are addressing some of the industry’s trending concerns. [31.33] An overview of Logward’s Transport Solutions, and the visibility it provides. [33.59] How Logward works with customers to understand their unique needs and develop strategic, customized control towers. [37.28] How the lack of transformational resources across many busine

Juliette Samson talks will about her career; hyper-collaboration; how tech is changing; and helping to raise the influence of women on boards [07.53] Juliette’s background; her education and early years; and where she found her incredible drive at such a young age. [10.36] Juliette’s long career at AT&T; her experiences; and her approach to embracing #opportunity. [13.31] An overview of Juliette’s career highlights, as she explored new markets and moved from Fortune 50’s to smaller companies; her biggest achievements; and what she’s most proud of. [20.47] Why Juliette took a chance on supply chain, despite a lack of experience, and her words advice of advice for other young people. [24.01] Juliette’s role as CIO of Genpro Inc; her perspective on how technology is changing; and why tech is an enabler to work smarter, not harder. [26.47] Juliette’s position at Targatek; how it’s leading the way in hyper-collaboration; and why that approach is increasingly important in business. [30.20] Why Juliette is on the bo

Patrick Lo talks about Trakking; bringing predictability to container management; & the importance of working together to remove waste from supply chains [07.40] Patrick’s background, and how a long career in #logistics led him to establish Trakking. [08.51] The current landscape of the industry, and the challenges and bottlenecks that Patrick sees as we head towards the second half of 2023. [11.34] An overview of Trakking – what they do, how they help their customers, and a look at their three core solutions. [15.10] The ideal client for Trakking. [17.03] How Trakking’s ‘Empty Container Release’ product is drastically reducing dead runs and improving #efficiency for clients. [19.47] From quicker turnarounds to decreased carbon emissions, the benefits of Trakking’s ‘Street Turn’ solution. [20.50] A closer look at the benefits of Trakking’s ‘Empty Container Return’ product. [26.15] The impact that Trakking’s services will have on the industry, and how solutions like theirs can solve key challenges and star

Last month, we shared one of my favorite recent episodes of Thoughts and Coffee with you - and we got such great feedback that we decided to do it again! And in this episode, I’m joined by founder, CEO and author Steve Ferreira. Steve wants to bring vivaciousness to the shipping industry and he’s certainly doing that! Tune in for his take on why students are flocking to supply chain; why FMC offers false hope to shippers; and the big question on everyone’s lips: exactly what is happening in the ocean market?! There is so much to get your teeth into in this episode so grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy!   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [07.00] From the latest episode of Women In Supply Chain to an introduction to the brand new private network, The Secret Society of Supply Chain, an update on the latest at Let’s Talk Supply Chain. [09.37] An introduction to Steve Ferreira; his vivacious approach to social media; and his business, Ocean Audit. “My claim to fame is helping importers and exporters recover lost cos

Welcome back to Blended! It’s episode 32, I’m joined by a brand new panel of fantastic professionals and, today, we’re talking about introverts vs extroverts. Most of us, in our lives and careers, have considered what personality type we are. You might be a self-identifying Type A personality (which I know one or two of my guests today are!) In many workplaces you might even have undergone a personality test, so leadership can get a greater idea of individuals strengths and weaknesses. And one factor that’s at the core of many personality assessments is whether you are introverted or extroverted. But the introverts vs extroverts question is pretty complex – it’s about way more than if you’re quiet or chatty. And since understanding introversion and extroversion can help you understand yourself and others better, we thought it was a really interesting topic to discuss here on Blended. So today, our guests will be diving into what these words actually mean and the qualities we associate with them; sharing their

Today I’m joined by Flexport, an exciting and innovative software brand that is on a mission to make global trade easy for everyone. Flexport is building the platform for global logistics, empowering buyers, sellers and their logistics partners with the technology and services to grow and innovate. Companies of all sizes – from emerging brands to Fortune 500s – use Flexport technology to move more than $10B worth of merchandise across 112 countries every year. Today Will Urban, Chief Revenue Officer at Flexport, joins me to chat all about the company and what they do; making sustainability a priority; the importance of providing visibility and control in a fragmented industry; and why global trade is a force for good. Guest bio: Will Urban is Chief Revenue Officer at Flexport, where he’s responsible for driving go-to-market strategy and maximizing the value Flexport delivers to clients. Will is a 25+ year freight forwarding and logistics industry veteran; prior to Flexport, Will was the Regional Vice Presiden

Today I’m joined by Esker, a long-standing software brand that is on a mission to build a foundation that promotes positive-sum growth, increased productivity, improved employee engagement, and greater trust between organizations. Esker is a global cloud platform built to unlock strategic value for finance and customer service professionals and strengthen collaboration between companies by automating the cash conversion cycle. By developing AI-driven technologies and automating the order-to-cash and procure-to-pay cycles, Esker frees up finance and customer service professionals from time-consuming tasks, helps them be more efficient, and enables them to develop new skills. Today Daniel Reeve, US Director of Sales and Business Development at Esker, joins me to chat all about the company and what they do; the power of positive-sum growth; bringing people and technology together in harmony; and why not all cloud platforms are created equal.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [07.02] An introduction to Esker – who

In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain™, I’m joined by Liz Decker, a truly passionate and dynamic leader at one of Inc’s Best Workplaces in America. Liz has a decade of broad experience across supply chain, having honed her expertise in all modes of logistics, covering international import/export, domestic truckload, drayage, customs brokerage, LTL, and air freight. From leading continuous improvement projects for Fortune 500 companies to leading SMB entrepreneurs through their first-ever international shipment, Liz is as versatile as she is dedicated. And she’s currently bringing her expertise and passion to her role as Director of Client Success at NorthPoint Logistics. Today Liz will be talking to us about her career so far; her passion for social causes; the importance of putting a focus on client success; and why she’s proud to say that she’s a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to supply chain. Plus, she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in supply chain, as well as her words of advice for all

Today I’m shaking things up and sharing one of my favorite recent episodes of Thoughts and Coffee. In this episode, I’m joined by exciting industry writer and former Managing Editor of Payload Space, Ryan Duffy, to talk space logistics. Ryan is passionate about bringing us the scoop on the future of logistics, from emerging tech to the final frontier, and I loved finding out more. So if you’ve ever wondered about the incredible world of space logistics, then this is the episode for you. We talked all about NASA's plans to start the first Gateway logistics mission later this year; we reflected on the stats that show the market is already expected to generate nearly $20 billion by 2040; and we explored the possible impact on GEO shipping due to the loss of Antonov planes. You need to stay updated on the rapidly evolving space logistics sector, so – get ready to launch!   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [07.12] An introduction to Ryan Duffy and leading publication Payload Space, and an overview of space logistics.

Welcome back to Blended! It’s episode 31, I’m joined by a brand new panel of inspirational professionals and, today, we’re talking about education and bias. It’s a topic that’s close to my heart, with my own educational and career journey. And, it’s a topic that has increasingly come under the spotlight recently in light of the labor shortages and trending workplace changes we’ve seen industry-wide. So now is the perfect time to really explore what’s going wrong, or right, with the way we think about education in the workplace. Today, our guests will be diving into education and sharing their own experiences; exploring the hiring practices that often continue to support bias; reflecting on what the next generation are doing and thinking about when it comes to education and their careers; and sharing their words of advice for how organizations can tackle education bias and create more diverse workplaces. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [00.44] Introductions to our Blended panellists. Rose – CEO and Principal Co