Navigating the Numbers: Tariffs, AI, and the Future of Supply Chains with Corey DeSantis
In “Navigating the Numbers: Tariffs, AI, and The Future of Supply Chains”, Joe Lynch and Corey DeSantis, BDO’s Logistics and Transportation Subject Matter Expert, discuss the evolving landscape of global trade, the transformative power of artificial intelligence, and strategies for building resilient supply chains for tomorrow. About Corey DeSantis Corey DeSantis serves as BDO’s Logistics and Transportation Subject Matter Expert, supporting clients in manufacturing, automotive, telecommunications and food manufacturing. Corey improves the condition of BDO’s clients through making data-driven decisions to optimize performance within their networks. He brings a decade of industry experience, working at some of the largest 4PLs in North America. In roles across transportation operations and transportation procurement, Corey has executed complex solutions for companies in the manufacturing, distribution, and retail sectors. His work includes executing RFPs, identifying cost and performance improvement opportunities, and driving mode optimization. Corey is serving his second term on CSCMP’s Transportation Center of Excellence, sitting on their Modes Committee. Corey also serves as the President of the CSCMP Pittsburgh’s Roundtable. His work on better practices for optimizing freight procurement strategies has been featured in Supply Chain Management Review. About BDO BDO's purpose is helping people thrive, every day. The organization is focused on delivering exceptional and sustainable outcomes and value for its people, clients, and communities. BDO is proud to be an ESOP company, reflecting a culture that puts people first. BDO professionals provide assurance, tax, and advisory services for a diverse range of clients across the U.S. and in over 160 countries through its global organization. BDO is the brand name for the BDO network and for each of the BDO Member Firms. BDO USA, P.C., a Virginia professional corporation, is the U.S. member of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, and forms part of the international BDO network of independent member firms. For more information, please visit: www.bdo.com. Key Takeaways: Navigating the Numbers: Tariffs, AI, and the Future of Supply Chains In “Navigating the Numbers: Tariffs, AI and The Future of Supply Chain”, Joe Lynch and Corey DeSantis, BDO’s Logistics and Transportation Subject Matter Expert, discuss the evolving landscape of global trade, the transformative power of artificial intelligence, and strategies for building resilient supply chains for tomorrow. Global Tariffs & Supply Chain Strategy: This episode explores how changing tariffs impact freight costs, sourcing, and overall supply chain strength. Expect insights on navigating complex trade policies. Data-Driven Supply Chain Optimization: The emphasis here is on leveraging smart data and analytics to identify savings, boost efficiency, and improve supply chain performance, especially with tariffs and dynamic markets in mind. AI's Role in Modern Supply Chains: A central theme is how AI is transforming supply chain operations. This covers its applications from predicting demand to optimizing routes and autonomous logistics. Strategic Procurement & Carrier Management: Learn how companies can strategically manage their relationships with carriers and conduct RFPs to achieve optimal costs and service, even amid unpredictable tariffs and rapid technological advancements. Adapting to Future Supply Chain Challenges: This forward-looking perspective offers strategies for building more flexible, resilient, and sustainable supply chains in the face of geopolitical shifts, tech disruptions, and evolving customer needs. Balancing Cost & Service in Logistics: This takeaway provides a nuanced view on avoiding short-term cost cuts that compromise long-term carrier relationships or service quality, especially as new technologies emerge and tariffs shift. Expertise in Complex Supply Chains: It's highlighted that external guidance and specialized knowledge are invaluable. Experts can help businesses navigate intricate tariff challenges, effectively integrate AI, and strategically plan for the future of their supply chain. Learn More About Navigating the Numbers: Tariffs, AI, and The Future of Supply Chains Corey DeSantis | Linkedin BDO | Linkedin BDO BDO | Manufacturing The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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The Threads of Trade: How Global Events are Reshaping Cotton Logistics with Michael Symonanis
In “The Threads of Trade: How Global Events are Reshaping Cotton Logistics”, Joe Lynch and Michael Symonanis, Director of Strategic Network at Louis Dreyfus Company, discuss how global events are reshaping cotton logistics, leveraging Michael’s dual perspective as a BCO and former ocean carrier, and the importance of collaboration and data transparency. About Michael Symonanis Michael Symonanis doesn’t just move containers - he moves conversations forward. With 30+ years in international container shipping, Michael brings a rare dual lens as both a BCO and former ocean carrier. Now in his 20th year at Louis Dreyfus Company, he focuses on practical, collaborative solutions that strengthen supply chain performance and partnerships. He holds degrees from Iowa State, Penn State, and Gonzaga, blending business, supply chain strategy, and leadership. As Chair of the ACSA Transportation Committee and a member of the National Shipper Advisory Committee, Michael works across the aisle with shippers, service providers, and regulators to improve export efficiency and data transparency. A regular voice in industry forums, he shares lessons learned while honoring the legacy of leaders like Sheila Bracken and the late Steve Wyman—always grounded, forward-looking, and people-first. About Louis Dreyfus Company Founded in 1851, Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Its activities across a diversified range of business lines span the entire value chain, from origination to distribution, helping to feed and clothe up to 500 million people every year. Its strong values, rich heritage, and clear vision for a safe and sustainable future guide it in its work to contribute to the global effort of providing sustenance for a growing population. Key Takeaways: The Threads of Trade: How Global Events are Reshaping Cotton Logistics In “The Threads of Trade: How Global Events are Reshaping Cotton Logistics”, Joe Lynch and Michael Symonanis, Director of Strategic Network at Louis Dreyfus Company, discuss how global events are reshaping cotton logistics, leveraging Michael’s dual perspective as a BCO and former ocean carrier, and the importance of collaboration and data transparency, the following topics were discussed: Dual Perspective and Collaboration are Crucial: Michael Symonanis's background as both a BCO and former ocean carrier, combined with his roles on industry committees, highlights the absolute necessity of a dual perspective and strong collaboration between shippers, carriers, and regulators to navigate the complexities of cotton logistics effectively. Global Events and Tariffs Significantly Impact Cotton: Geopolitical shifts, economic fluctuations, and tariffs directly reshape cotton logistics strategies, influencing everything from sourcing to transportation costs. Understanding these macro factors is vital for success. Ocean Shipping Performance Has Declined, OSRA 2022 Reshapes Industry: On-time ocean shipping performance has suffered post-pandemic, necessitating more robust contingency planning. The Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 has also brought significant changes, aiming to improve transparency and address industry issues. LDC's Expectations Drive Partner Selection: Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) has high expectations for its logistics partners, prioritizing reliability, efficiency, and a deep understanding of agricultural commodity shipping, which shapes their collaborative approach. Logistics is a Strategic Conversation, Not Just Movement: Effective cotton logistics goes beyond mere physical transport. It involves fostering dialogue, building relationships, and strategically addressing systemic issues to enhance overall supply chain performance and partnerships. Data Transparency and Export Efficiency are Non-Negotiable: Accurate and timely information, coupled with streamlined export processes, are fundamental for mitigating risks, optimizing routes, and ensuring the timely global delivery of cotton. Learn More About The Threads of Trade: How Global Events are Reshaping Cotton Logistics Michael Symonanis | Linkedin Louis Dreyfus Company | Linkedin Louis Dreyfus Company The End of the World Is Just the Beginning The Travels of a T-Shirt In The Global Economy Big Changes at the Port with Lauren Beagen The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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REPOST: Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail with Martin Lew
Martin Lew and Joe Lynch discuss beyond the tracks: the next frontier of American rail. Martin is CEO at Commtrex, a tech-enabled rail logistics provider with a team of experienced rail professionals, an extensive network of partners, and a best-in-class technology platform that simplifies the movement of freight and creates a competitive advantage. About Martin Lew Martin Lew is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Commtrex, the largest tech-enabled logistics platform in North America (US, Canada, and Mexico) for shippers to directly connect with railroads, transloaders, storage facilities, lessors, rail service providers, warehouses, and industry data. Under Lew’s leadership, Commtrex has been named to the Freightwaves FreightTech 100 and has established partnerships with all seven class 1 railroads. Prior to Commtrex, Mr. Lew was the Head of Global Sales and Origination for Mabanaft Coal Trading, Vice President and Head of Origination for J.P.Morgan’s Coal and Environmental Markets Group, Associate for the North American Coal and Emissions Trading Desk at Bear Stearns, and CEO of Equate Systems. Mr. Lew holds a Juris Doctorate from Boston College Law School, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree with majors in Communications and Political Science from the University of Southern California. About Commtrex Commtrex simplifies the movement of freight by rail with a tech-enabled platform that connects a network of reputable railroads, transloaders, lessors, and other rail service providers across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Commtrex’s data-driven approach provides the rail and transload industry with visibility and connectivity that significantly accelerates the amount of time it takes for shippers to procure the services needed to manage their freight by rail. With a community of 4,000+ active members, including over 1,900 shippers, and partnerships with all six Class I Railroads, Commtrex stands at the forefront of the industry. Discover more at www.commtrex.com. Key Takeaways: Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail Rail freight industry is exploring innovations like longer trains, digitization, cleaner energy, and inland terminals to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Rail transportation is suitable for high-volume freight over long distances, typically 500-600 miles or more, with a minimum volume equivalent to four to eight truckloads. Railroads move freight in two primary components: intermodal (containers on flatcars) and carload/merchandise commodities. Rail transportation enables efficient, low-carbon freight movement, reducing emissions by 75% compared to trucking. Trucking goods by rail instead of road has sustainability advantages and helps address the shortage of long-haul truck drivers. Commtrex is a platform connecting rail shippers with service providers across the US, Canada, and Mexico, providing visibility and facilitating communication. Short-line railroads transport freight from Class 1 railroads to the final destination, often using transloading facilities for last-mile delivery. The freight visibility platform Commtrex assists shippers in locating facilities and services required for rail transportation. Rail freight provides cost savings, sustainability benefits, and supply chain diversification/flexibility for shippers moving commodities or bulk goods. Commtrex connect shippers, logistics providers, railroads, facilitating rail freight growth to support nearshoring and environmental goals. Timestamps (00:00:02) Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail (00:00:35) Commtrex Platform (00:02:10) Rail Fit and Economics (00:03:07) Martin's Background (00:12:28) Rail Freight Movement (00:18:00) Houston Rail Hub (00:21:50) Freight Movement by Rail (00:24:40) Commtrex Marketplace (00:30:32) Visibility for Shippers (00:33:18) Short Line Railroads (00:34:36) Commtrex Search Visibility (00:40:45) Educating Freight Brokers (00:46:00) Rail as an Option (00:50:17) Podcast Promotion Learn More About Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail Martin Lew | Linkedin Commtrex | Linkedin Commtrex Everything in Logistics Let's Talk Supply Chain Freightwaves (People Speaking Rail) The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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REPOST: Avoiding Logistics FUD with Steve Elwell
Steve Elwell and Joe Lynch discuss avoiding logistics FUD. Steve is the Founder and Managing Director of iDev Partners, a boutique leadership, business strategy and turnaround consulting firm. Summary: Avoiding Logistics FUD In this episode, Joe Lynch and guest Steve Elwell tackle the pervasive issue of Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt (FUD) and its impact on various aspects of business, particularly in logistics. Joe and Steve provide valuable insights into overcoming FUD by establishing trust and eliminating disruptive elements within business relationships, and leadership. The conversations delve into strategies for fostering growth, efficiency, and effective sales processes by promoting consistent, reliable behavior and building trustworthy partnerships. They discuss the negative consequences of transactional relationships and emphasize the rewards of creating harmonious environments in team settings, especially against the backdrop of current industrial challenges and transformative periods. With a focus on personal conduct, team bonding, and maintaining customer relationships, this episode serves as a crucial guide for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of fear, uncertainty, and doubt in the professional landscape. #OvercomingFUD #LogisticsLeadership #BuildingTrustInBusiness About Steve Elwell Steve is the Founder and since 2010 Managing Director of iDev Partners a boutique leadership, business strategy and turnaround consulting firm located in Farmington Hills, MI. In this role he has helps leaders and organizations realize their potential and mission. Steve has lead multiple technology, manufacturing, and start-up businesses as CEO, COO, and President. His consulting clients include large publicly traded corporations and family businesses in industries from logistics to aerospace. Prior to strategy and turnaround, Steve ran an IT, and automation businesses and owned a retained executive search firm. He earned an MBA from Wayne State University in Detroit, and a BA in Economics and Management from Albion College, in Albion, MI. Steve, his wife Kris, and their two children live in Farmington Hill, MI. About iDev iDev serves leaders and businesses in their transition from good to great. We develop clarity and translate that clarity into action and durable sustainable gains. Our approach brings together vision, talent, technology, around realistic solutions, and deliberate high-energy execution. iDev has been successful in diverse situations including turnaround and transformation, crisis management, and strategic growth. iDev leaders have prior consulting experience as well as tenure as C-suite function heads and CEOs. Key Takeaways: Avoiding Logistics FUD Understanding the impact of fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) in logistics and business. Strategies for enhancing business growth, efficiency, and performance by overcoming FUD. The importance of trust, rapport, and leadership in personal relationships. Adapting to industry shifts and challenges by fostering agility and strong partnerships. The risks of transactional relationships and the benefits of transparent, mutually beneficial collaborations. How to counteract the negative effects of FUD by cultivating harmony and effective team dynamics. Timestamps (00:00:02) Avoiding Logistics FUD (00:00:13) Reflecting on FUD in Relationships (00:02:08) Optimizing Business Performance (00:02:57) Impact of Fear and Uncertainty (00:07:52) Navigating Post-COVID Logistics Challenges (00:09:58) Combatting FUD in Sales (00:12:34) The Impact of Sales Conduct (00:18:14) Managing FUD in Business Relationships (00:22:44) Navigating Business Relationships (00:29:22) Transactional Pitfalls in Shipping (00:30:24) Fostering Harmony Over FUD (00:36:02) Building Strong Business Relationships (00:36:27) Leadership and Building Trust (00:41:05) Overcoming FUD in Logistics (00:42:46) Seek Harmony, Avoid Disruption (00:43:26) Identifying Business Pain Points (00:44:30) Wrapping Up Logistics Podcast Learn More About Avoiding Logistics FUD Steve Elwell | Linkedin iDev | Linkedin Supply Chain Disruptions Are Here to Stay with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics 3 Emerging Supply Chain Trends with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Make Heroes, Make Money with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Avoiding Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt in Sales with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics The Number One Reason Why People Buy with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics The Only 3 Ways to Improve Your Sales with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Understanding the Buying Process with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Entering New Logistics Markets with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Freight Recession: Opportunity or Threat with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges with Michael Needham
In “Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges”, Joe Lynch and Michael Needham, a Principal at Efficio, discuss how to build resilient supply chains using data-driven strategies and a hands-on consulting approach to achieve both cost savings and operational resilience in the complex pharma and healthcare sectors. About Michael Needham Michael Needham is a Principal Consultant at Efficio, the leading global consultancy, dedicated to helping clients achieve their supply chain and procurement goals. Michaël has 20+ years of experience working across the pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical device development, healthcare services and CPG sectors. His expertise lies in rapid value creation and turnaround for organizations in financial difficulty. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Masters in Purchasing & Supply Chain Management and a PhD based on the implementation of lean six sigma process improvement programs across geographic locations. About Efficio For over two decades, Efficio has been a leading independent consultancy, dedicated to helping clients achieve their supply chain and procurement goals. They combine the deep expertise of their consultants with a vast amount of data and insights gained from years of specialized work. Efficio stands out by not just advising, but by embedding with clients to truly understand their unique challenges and deliver tangible, sustained results. Their approach is powered by the Connected Platform and eFlow digital procurement platforms, which leverage global knowledge for smarter, data-driven decisions. Whether it's cost reduction, working capital management, or addressing supply chain complexities, Efficio's singular focus on procurement and supply chain, data-driven technology, and hands-on delivery set them apart. They offer flexible support models, from rapid assessments to long-term partnerships, ensuring measurable and lasting value Key Takeaways: Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges In “Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges”, Joe Lynch and Michael Needham, a Principal Consultant at Efficio, the leading global consultancy, dedicated to helping clients achieve their supply chain and procurement goals, the following topics were discussed: Optimizing Private Equity Portfolios: Efficio assists private equity clients by optimizing the supply chains of multiple acquired companies within a sector, helping them achieve greater efficiency and economies of scale through consolidation. Collaborative, On-the-Ground Support Works: Efficio’s model of “embedding” with clients shows that deep, hands-on collaboration leads to more effective and lasting solutions. Specialization Delivers Results: Efficio’s focus on procurement and supply chain proves that specialized expertise is critical for solving complex challenges in sectors like pharma and healthcare. Efficio's Role in Strategic Supply Chain Management: The interview underscored Efficio's expertise in navigating complex supply chain challenges, from geopolitical influences and market consolidation to sustainability initiatives, offering strategic guidance to their diverse client base. Supply Chain Resilience in Pharma & Healthcare: The Efficio consultant highlighted the varying supply chain dynamics for patented versus generic drugs. Generic medications, predominantly manufactured in China and India, face potential repositioning due to US tariffs, while patented drugs, made in Ireland, Switzerland, and the USA, have different supply chain considerations. Sustainability as a Key Driver: Sustainability remains a significant concern, particularly for large companies with extensive supply chains, suggesting an ongoing focus on environmentally conscious practices within the industry. Learn More About Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges Michael Needham | LinkedIn Efficio | LinkedIn Efficio Transforming global procurement: Innovating digital solutions and partnership Two transformations, one competitive edge: Procurement in Physician Practice Management Re-designing procurement: A global healthcare manufacturer's post-acquisition journey 170+ million vaccines administered: The UK Vaccine Taskforce’s digital supply planning transformation Pharma and Healthcare: Avoid panic buying by approaching safety stocks wisely - | Efficio US How the Inflation Reduction Act is shaping pharma procurement strategies - | Efficio US The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube