As global supply chains navigate through cybersecurity threats and rapid technological integration, companies must rethink their strategies to stay competitive. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting corporate systems through sophisticated tactics, such as email infiltration, to gain access to sensitive data, including bills of lading. This underscores the need for organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity and ensure their supply chains remain secure.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Karin Bursa sit down with Gustav Khambatta, SVP, Head of Freight Payment Sales at U.S. Bank, to explore key themes in supply chain management. They discuss the evolving role of cybersecurity, AI's impact on the industry, and the challenges posed by cargo theft and security breaches.

They talk about the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, highlighting how technology is transforming business operations. AI is being integrated into supply chain processes, with use cases ranging from fraud prevention to streamlining document verification. However, as AI adoption accelerates, so does the potential for security vulnerabilities. The conversation underscores the importance of continuous adaptation in a rapidly changing supply chain landscape, where technology and security will play a central role in shaping the future.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(04:02) Sports talk: Patriots, Falcons, F1

(06:19) Gustav’s professional journey

(08:01) US Bank Freight Payment Index insights

(14:39) Cybersecurity in the corporate world

(20:22) AI in supply chain and cybersecurity

(23:28) AI and cybersecurity integration

(24:08) Regulatory environment and leadership challenges

(24:38) Supply chain evolution and technology

(27:26) AI in supply chain management

(29:35) Reflections on 2025

(32:29) Energy demand and AI

(37:02) Predictions for 2026

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Gustav Khambatta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustav-khambatta-384852/
2. Learn more about U.S. Bank: https://www.usbank.com/index.html
3. Download the most recent edition of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bank
4. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
5. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
6. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join

Disruptions in global supply chains, from trade uncertainties to the rapid integration of AI, are challenging companies to rethink their strategies. At the same time, businesses must address talent shortages, enhance workforce capabilities, and navigate an ever-evolving technological landscape. The result is a supply chain ecosystem at a pivotal moment, requiring leaders to blend policy, talent, and technology to stay competitive.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to reflect on the state of supply chain in 2025 and beyond. Together, they explore the significant challenges and opportunities in supply chain planning, including AI adoption, talent strategy, and the impact of tariffs.

Scott and Mike discuss how AI is moving from pilot to scale, helping businesses unlock significant value across sourcing and logistics. They highlight the importance of integrating AI with talent strategies to empower workers rather than replace them. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of trade policy and how companies must build it into their long-term strategy. The episode concludes with insights into navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and the imperative for businesses to embrace innovation while managing uncertainty.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:05) Impact of the space shuttle program

(05:17) Overcoming setbacks in large-scale initiatives

(07:25) Shifting from AI pilots to scaled solutions

(09:11) Space exploration’s unexpected byproducts for innovation

(10:07) Reflecting on supply chain performance in 2025

(12:42) Adapting supply chain strategies to tariffs

(15:05) Balancing AI implementation with talent development

(16:19) Upskilling talent in the age of AI

(19:31) Evaluating AI’s role in workforce reductions

(21:13) Connecting AI, talent, and corporate strategies

(23:24) Aligning AI and talent strategies for 2026

(27:05) Supply chain leaders embracing complexity and uncertainty

(34:05) Targeting AI solutions to specific business problems

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
2. Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/en
3. Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
4. Check out Gartner's "Year in Review: Supply Chain 2025" by Stan Aronow and Wade McDaniel: https://www.gartner.com/en/supply-chain/insights/beyond-supply-chain-blog/year-in-review-supply-chain-2025
5. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
6. Watch and listen to more

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Dr. Stephanie Thomas and Dr. Rod Thomas, associate professors of Supply Chain Management at the Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of supply chain education, talent development, and the critical role of collaboration between academia and industry.

Stephanie and Rod share insights on preparing the NOW generation of supply chain leaders, discussing the increasing awareness of supply chain careers, the importance of experiential learning, and how companies can build stronger internship pipelines. They also dive into the intersection of retail media networks and supply chain strategy—an emerging opportunity to shape demand and improve operational efficiency.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Rod: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rod-thomas-a409a41/
• Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark/
• Learn more about the Sam M. Walton School of Business: https://walton.uark.edu/
• 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/3XH6OVk

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/classroom-boardroom-preparing-now-generation-supply-chain-leaders-1404

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott W. Luton sits down with Melanie Salter, Director of Supply Chain Research at boom! Global Network, to discuss the evolving role of people in supply chain strategy. Together, they explore the intersection of data, strategic network design, and inclusive leadership—and why businesses that overlook workforce engagement risk falling behind.

Melanie shares insights on industry trends, from AI adoption and decision-making challenges to the importance of building diverse, resilient supply chains. She also breaks down the latest research on workplace inclusion and its direct impact on business performance.

For supply chain leaders, business strategists, and professionals navigating change, this episode delivers practical takeaways on creating supply chains that are both efficient and people-focused.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:15) The unexpected career pivot for Melanie

(07:42) A major industry shift that changed business operations

(12:08) How AI and automation are transforming workflows

(16:30) The biggest challenge facing professionals today

(20:51) Strategies that helped companies stay competitive

(25:14) A case study on adapting to rapid market changes

(29:37) How strong leadership drives real innovation

(34:05) The biggest misconception about industry growth

(38:22) boom! Global Network’s role in shaping market trends

(42:19) How businesses can prepare for upcoming shifts

(46:03) Why mentorship is critical for long-term success

(54:10) What’s next for the industry

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Melanie Salter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniesalter/
• Learn more about boom! Global Network: https://boomglobalnetwork.com/
• Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• 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/3XH6OVk

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/eureka-moments-research-data-supply-chain-journey-1395

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Paul Brooks, founder of Go Further Consulting, and Dave Food, Chief Strategy Officer at Prophetic Technology, to explore the evolving demands of supply chain leadership in today’s global economy. They discuss how the role has become more visible since the COVID-19 pandemic, why leadership fundamentals like judgment, communication, and resilience remain constant, and how AI and technology are reshaping the way leaders think and operate.

Paul shares insights from interviewing 50 global executives on servant leadership and values-based decision making. At the same time, Dave emphasizes the importance of T-shaped leaders who balance specialist expertise with a broad organizational perspective. Together, they highlight why empowering teams to experiment safely, aligning metrics across functions, and fostering collaboration with suppliers and customers are critical for long-term success. This conversation offers a clear roadmap for developing future-ready leaders who can navigate complexity and inspire high-performing teams.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:48) Core mantras and leadership philosophies

(07:23) Paul and Dave’s career journeys

(11:35) Challenges facing supply chain leadership today

(16:23) Why customer experience drives supply chains

(18:26) The bigger picture and process explained

(27:02) The role of the wider team

(28:38) Aligning KPIs with new CEO strategies

(29:29) Supply chain leadership in the boardroom

(31:51) Specialists versus generalists in supply chain

(36:02) Understanding the T-shaped leader concept

(42:39) Leadership mistakes to avoid in supply chains

(45:22) Future trends in supply chain leadership

(48:46) Projects and initiatives from Paul and Dave

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Paul Brooks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulbrooksfcilt/
• Learn more about Go Further Consulting: http://www.gofurtherconsulting.co.uk/
• Learn more about Paul’s website: www.wordstoinspire.co.uk
• Connect with Dave Food: http://www.linkedin.com/in/davefood
• Learn more about Prophetic Technology: https://www.prophetic-technology.com/
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• 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/3XH6OVk

This 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/key-elements-optimizing-supply-chain-leadership-2026-beyond-1496

The content in this video, including all audio, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com © 2025 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Lushentha Naidoo, Managing Director of the European Supplier Diversity Program (ESDP), for a candid conversation on purpose-driven leadership and the business value of inclusive procurement. Drawing on a 14-year transformation career at Unilever and a personal journey from apartheid-era South Africa to global operations leadership, Lushentha shares how caring as a leadership “superpower” can fuel innovation, save jobs, and build psychologically safe teams. She explains how supplier diversity isn’t charity. It’s a competitive advantage that increases agility, strengthens resilience, and unlocks fresh thinking when disruption hits.

She also breaks down how ESDP bridges corporates and diverse suppliers through a fast-growing database, networking events, and the Inclusive Procurement Academy, teaching pitching, storytelling, and “corporate readiness.” From real success stories (mentorship that kept a founder in the fight) to pragmatic guidance for senior leaders doubling down on DEI, this conversation offers actionable takeaways: define the why, build inclusive cultures, and widen the supplier funnel so the best partner wins.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:18) Lushentha’s inspirational journey to Easter Island

(06:50) Growing up during Apartheid

(12:53) The impact of Nelson Mandela's leadership

(17:40) Lushentha’s professional journey at Unilever

(23:45) The power of diversity and inclusion

(26:01) The transition to the European Supplier Diversity Program (ESDP)

(29:09) Lushentha’s advice for corporate leaders

(32:17) Challenges for women in the workplace

(33:52) What ESDP does, its mission, and its impact

(44:06) The importance of inclusivity and DEI

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Lushentha Naidoo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lushentha-naidoo-99730439
• Learn more about ESDP: https://esdp-org.eu/
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com
• 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/3XH6OVk

This 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/equity-action-inclusion-leads-supply-chain-innovation-1483

The content in this video, including all audio, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com © 2025 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor welcome Gaurav Malhotra, Partner and Supply Chain Technology Leader at EY, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming supply chains today and where it’s headed over the next five years. Gaurav shares how EY is helping organizations embrace emerging technologies to create competitive advantage, avoid “pilot purgatory,” and build more cognitive and resilient supply chains.

They cover practical misconceptions holding companies back from adopting AI, the foundational elements required for successful implementation, and real-world examples of immediate impact in logistics, predictive maintenance, and warehouse operations. Gaurav also discusses how organizations can invest in workforce education, reskilling, and culture change to ensure that humans remain at the center of AI adoption. Looking ahead, he offers his perspective on how agentic AI will reshape supply chains into adaptive, orchestrated ecosystems while freeing people to focus on creativity, critical thinking, and enterprise differentiation.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(04:13) A personal story family pilgrimage to Kauai

(07:34) The intersection of supply chain and humanitarian efforts

(09:52) Ey’s role in global supply chain

(15:20) Misconceptions about AI in factories

(18:09) Overcoming pilot paralysis

(22:29) Immediate benefits of AI in supply chain

(26:25) AI’s impact on supply chain efficiency

(27:18) The role of agentic AI in factories

(31:43) Human element in AI-driven supply chains

(36:17) Upskilling and reskilling for the AI era

(43:05) Future predictions for AI in supply chains

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Gaurav Malhotra: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravmalhotra/
• Learn more about EY: https://www.ey.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/3XH6OVk

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/ai-human-ingenuity-next-era-supply-chains-1480

The content in this video, including all audio, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com © 2025 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Liz Raman, founder and CEO of Supply Chain Gals, to share her dynamic career journey and powerful mission to amplify women’s voices in global supply chain leadership. Liz walks us through her career path—from routing trucks at Home Depot to leading assortment planning at Nike, and now empowering a growing global community of 20,000+ women through Supply Chain Gals. She shares how embracing discomfort, learning new skills like data analytics, and thinking beyond traditional supply chain roles can open up transformative career opportunities.

The conversation explores how technology, mentorship, and storytelling are reshaping the future of supply chain careers. Liz also highlights why building meaningful human connections—and finding your voice—are essential to long-term growth in today’s evolving landscape.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:04) Tennis and personal interests

(04:47) Liz’s professional journey

(09:30) Non-traditional supply chain careers

(14:33) Women in supply chain

(21:58) Supply Chain Gals

(27:24) Career advice and mentorship

(27:41) Staying prepared in tough job markets

Additional Links & Resources

• Connect with Liz Raman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethramangrubbs/
• Explore Supply Chain Gals: https://supplychaingals.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/3XH6OVk

This 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/amplifying-womens-voices-supply-chain-supply-chain-gals-1426

The content in this video, including all audio, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com © 2025 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.