What happens when cutting-edge technology meets the complexities of global supply chains? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Justin Goldston, the Academic Program Director for the Logistics and Supply Chain Program at National University. Together, we uncover the transformative potential of AI, blockchain, and innovative thinking in making supply chains not only resilient but also sustainable. Dr. Goldston shares essential insights into fostering collaboration among business partners—from customers to competitors—to effectively navigate disruptions and adapt to an ever-evolving landscape. This conversation is your compass for understanding how to future-proof your supply chain while also addressing climate change head-on.

Ever wondered how companies can manage the dual challenges of sustainability and resilience? With the recent enactment of California Senate bills 253 and 261, known as the Climate Accountability Package, companies face new mandates to disclose their environmental and human rights metrics. We'll explore how organizations can assess their sustainability maturity and implement actionable plans to comply with these rigorous regulations. The episode also tackles the complex yet crucial concept of circular supply chains, discussing the intricacies of managing disruptions from natural disasters to global pandemics. Systems thinking emerges as a key strategy, revealing the interconnected nature of every supply chain component.

Discover the logistical wizardry behind Amazon’s sprawling distribution network across the United States, and learn how the company leverages AI to enhance supply chain resilience. This episode takes a look at the post-COVID perception shift of supply chain departments—from mere cost centers to vital competitive advantages. Automation's role in maintaining operational efficiency is also highlighted, addressing labor shortages across various sectors, including fast food. As we wrap up, we'll delve into the cutting-edge technologies like blockchain and digital twins that are revolutionizing carbon tracking and supply chain optimization, impacting investor confidence and regulatory compliance. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that bridges the gap between technological advancements and sustainable business practices.

Could a $20 minimum wage in California's fast-food industry be a recipe for economic upheaval or a much-needed financial boost for workers? Join us as we serve up a feast of perspectives with Dr. Brian Simpson and Dr. Rickard Briggs, dissecting the seismic impacts of wage increases on employees, businesses, and the very fabric of our society. Our robust conversation traverses the contentious terrain of higher earnings versus the stark realities of job losses and an accelerated shift toward automation and AI.

As the aroma of surging gas prices and wage hikes fill the air, witness the struggle of small businesses gasping to stay afloat. With heartfelt narratives of closures and the survival tactics of establishments like Foster’s Freeze, the episode examines how economic pressures are reshaping the future of businesses and employment. These stories frame a broader debate on government's role in wage regulation, stirring a pot of complex legislative and philosophical ingredients as we simmer closer to election year influences and policy decisions.

Finally, we plate up a philosophical and political discourse, garnished with the diverse perspectives of our distinguished guests. We dissect the moral conundrums and political ramifications of minimum wage laws, savoring the flavors of liberal and conservative viewpoints. As we prep for the 2024 elections, this episode invites listeners to digest how these state-level decisions could season federal policy and the overall economic landscape. Join us at the table for a discussion that promises to satisfy your appetite for insightful analysis on the future of minimum wage laws.

Ever wondered how AI is crafting the future of education? Dr. Brian Arnold, an education technology expert from National University, joins me, Kimberly King, to demystify AI's impact on learning and teaching. Together, we dissect the evolution of educational practices, casting a light on the power of AI to personalize the educational journey. As large language models like ChatGPT begin to permeate classrooms, we critically examine the shift from traditional knowledge demonstration to an outcomes-based approach that emphasizes competencies.

The landscape of education is a tapestry of diverse opinions, and our discussion traverses the gamut of emotions AI evokes among educators. While some embrace the wave of change, others stand cautious at the water's edge, and Dr. Arnold and I tackle the tough questions. We address the balance between preserving the sanctity of academic freedom and embracing the imperative of preparing students for an AI-integrated future. The practicalities and challenges of updating assessment methods also make their way to the forefront, as we underscore the importance of equipping our educators with the right tools to navigate this transition.

The ethical dimension of AI in the classroom cannot be overstated, and it's here that Dr. Arnold and I take a deep exploration into the misconceptions surrounding AI—debunking the fear-inducing myths fueled by dystopian narratives. We dissect the ethical and moral nuances, and the conversation naturally flows toward envisioning the future role of teachers in this new era. Closing our insightful dialogue, we reflect on how AI can ignite creativity and critical thinking, reshaping not just how students learn but how they engage with the world around them. Join us in this exploration for a fresh perspective on AI's role in education.