The Chain Podcast

Forecasting, Inventory and AI: What Supply Chain Leaders Are Missing

Is the answer to supply chain disruption really more technology? In this episode of ASCM's The Chain, host Abe Eshkenazi sits down with John Melbye, founder of Become Demand Driven, to challenge some of the most common assumptions shaping supply chain planning today. Organizations continue investing heavily in AI, planning platforms and digital transformation initiatives, yet many still struggle with inventory imbalances, stockouts, forecasting challenges and operational inefficiencies. John argues that better tools alone won't solve these problems—and that true improvement starts with questioning the assumptions behind how supply chains are managed. If you're evaluating AI investments, rethinking inventory strategy or looking for new ways to improve supply chain performance, this conversation will challenge conventional wisdom and provide a fresh perspective on what drives real results. Key Topics Covered: Why technology alone doesn't fix supply chain problems The limitations of traditional forecasting and planning How AI should—and shouldn't—be applied in supply chain The conflict between cost reduction and operational flow Why inventory isn't always the enemy Developing talent alongside technology investments Moving from prediction-focused planning to capability-focused planning Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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Rethinking Change Management in Supply Chains in the Age of AI

Transformation is everywhere—but real results are rare. In this episode of The Chain Podcast, we sit down with DeAnna Harner, Global Executive Partner of Supply Chain Operations, to explore why so many transformation initiatives fall short — and what it actually takes to make change stick. Harner shares hard-earned insights from working with hundreds of organizations navigating AI adoption, digital transformation and ongoing disruption. From “Excel chaos” to disconnected data, she explains why technology alone isn’t the answer. Together, we unpack: Why AI isn’t a “Band-Aid” for broken processes How to move beyond constant firefighting in supply chains Where organizations are seeing real value from AI today The critical role of culture, collaboration, and change readiness Why starting small—and getting the basics right—is the key to success If you’re looking to turn bold transformation ambitions into measurable outcomes, this conversation will give you the practical mindset shift you need to get started. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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Navigating Geopolitics of Supply Chain Resilience with Köse Advisory

In this episode of The Chain Podcast, ASCM is joined by geopolitical supply chain expert and advisor, Koray Köse, founder and chief analyst at Köse Advisory, discuss how supply chains are evolving from efficiency-driven networks into strategic infrastructure that shapes resilience, competitiveness and business continuity. The conversation explores how geopolitical pressure, tariffs, sanctions, export controls, AI adoption, cyber risk and supply chain visibility are changing what leadership looks like in modern operations. Koray Köse also explains why resilience should be treated as an operating model and investment strategy — not just a defensive response to disruption. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast About Koray Köse: Koray Köse, Founder and Chief Analyst of KŌSE Advisory, a global advisory firm operating at the intersection of geopolitics, GeoTech, artificial intelligence, and global value chains. Koray advises executives, investors, policymakers, and global stakeholders on the decisions that define competitive position, resilience, and long-term growth. With more than two decades of senior advisory and executive experience, Koray has operated as both practitioner and strategist, from analyst to Director at the Federal Reserve Bank, and from Chief Procurement Officer to Chief Industry Officer across global organizations spanning automotive, defense, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, semiconductors, and high technology. He serves as Special Adviser to the Centre for the Geopolitics of Global Change at ODI Global and is the inaugural Senior Fellow of GLOBSEC’s GeoTech Research Center, established under the leadership of General John R. Allen. He is also a participant in NATO’s 2030 Private Sector Dialogues. Koray teaches MBA programs at HULT International Business School and Northeastern University and serves on the Board of the Slave-Free Alliance. He is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and a published author whose work has appeared in more than 100 publications and has been featured by The New York Times, The Economist, The Wall Street Journal, Reuters, BBC, Forbes, Bloomberg, CNBC, and Channel News Asia. His advisory work spans multinational corporations, technology firms, investors, think tanks, NGOs, and major international conferences. He has also contributed strategic intelligence assessments, geopolitical analysis, and human intelligence context to senior government, national security, and intelligence community forums across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.

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The Truth About Driver Shortages: Pay, Transparency and the Workforce Reality with The National Transportation Institute

In this episode of The Chain, we’re joined by Leah Shaver, President and CEO of the National Transportation Institute (NTI) and one of the most trusted voices in trucking workforce and compensation data. Leah breaks down what supply chain leaders often misunderstand about the so‑called driver shortage — and why the real challenge is more complex than headcount alone. Drawing on decades of data and experience, she explains how outdated pay models, misaligned job promises, generational gaps, and lack of compensation transparency continue to drive churn across the industry. You'll learn: What competitive driver pay actually looks like today Why turnover remains high even at top‑paying fleets How private fleets differ from for‑hire carriers in both structure and outcomes Where automation and AI can truly help — or hurt — the driver experience What leaders must unlearn to build a resilient, future‑ready driver pipeline. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Advance your logistics career with an APICS CLTD -- the certification that can help you learn and earn more. Explore driverwages.com for more information about NTI

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SCOR® as a Framework for Trade Resilience with Hamilton Beach Brands

In this episode of The Chain Podcast, we sit down with Mike Bunge, Vice President of Global Supply Chain Operations at Hamilton Beach Brands, explores how SCOR®-based maturity assessments can help supply chain leaders take control of trade, customs, and global logistics. Bunge shares how Hamilton Beach used a SCOR assessment to move beyond reactive decision-making and identify where trade costs, risks, and inefficiencies were truly coming from. Rather than treating tariffs and trade policy as uncontrollable external forces, the assessment created a shared, data-driven view across supply chain, finance, legal, and IT — allowing the organization to prioritize improvements and align on outcomes. The conversation highlights how SCOR enables leaders to diagnose root causes, balance lean operations with resilience, and connect trade strategy to enterprise performance metrics like cost, agility, and asset efficiency. Mike also explains why cross-functional ownership and disciplined analysis are critical for turning assessment insights into measurable business impact. For supply chain leaders navigating constant disruption, this episode offers practical insight into how SCOR maturity assessments provide clarity, focus, and a roadmap for action—especially in complex areas like global trade and logistics. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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Leading Manufacturing Through Change, Data and Talent with Tsubaki Nakashima

We're joined by Nashay Naeve, President of the Engineered Plastic Components Business Unit at Tsubaki Nakashima, to explore what it takes to lead manufacturing organizations in an era of constant disruption. Nashay shares how global experience — from living and working in China to leading teams across Europe and the U.S. — has shaped her leadership philosophy. Together, we discuss how: Manufacturers can move from reactive decision-making to proactive, data-driven operations. Why upskilling frontline teams is just as critical as investing in digital transformation. How sustainability can become a true competitive differentiator. The conversation also covers career advice for early professionals, mentorship for women in supply chain leadership, and how organizations can plan long-term while staying agile in the face of today’s volatility. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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The Future of Manufacturing with the Reshoring Institute

Founder and Executive Director of the Reshoring Institute, Rosemary Coates, joins us to unpack what’s truly happening beyond reshoring. You’ll hear why much of the work described as “coming back” to the U.S. was never here to begin with, where nearshoring to Mexico fits, how friend‑shoring actually plays out and why automation and skills will define the next decade. We dig into China “decoupling” realities, tariff whiplash, the rise of C‑suite supply chain strategy and what leaders, policymakers and the next generation of professionals must do now. You’ll learn: Clear definitions: reshoring vs. nearshoring vs. friend‑shoring Why automation, data and AI change the talent equation The hard parts of leaving China: contracts, IP risk and regulatory permissions. Practical steps executives can take now to build a resilient supply chain Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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How IoT is Transforming the Cold Chain with SmartSense by Digi

In this episode of The Chain, Guy Yehiav, President of SmartSense by Digi, joins us to explore how IoT, AI and real‑time sensing are reshaping the cold chain. From preventing foodborne illness and reducing waste to improving healthcare safety and unlocking full supply chain visibility, Guy shares how data-driven monitoring and predictive analytics are helping organizations build resilience, consistency, and customer trust across every link of the supply chain. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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Tariffs, Talent and Uncertainty: What Supply Chains Learned in 2025

We revisit the past year of tariff policy and its ripple effects across global supply chains. Our guest, supply chain expert Alastair Charatan, returns to discuss what predictions held up and what surprises emerged from the predictions we made back in January. We unpack why large‑scale reshoring hasn’t materialized, how shortened planning horizons complicate capital investment and why a “carrots over sticks” industrial strategy beats blunt trade instruments. Listen and learn: Why you need to invest in scenario planning tools lock capacity early when bottlenecks loom, and prioritize workforce development to work alongside automation and co-bots. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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AI, Talent and Sustainability: 2026 Supply Chain Trends

Join Abe Eshkenazi as he welcomes Scott Luton, founder and CEO of Supply Chain Now, for a dynamic conversation on the future of supply chain management. Fresh from the annual conference in Columbus, they give a sneak peek into the top trends shaping 2026, including the rise of artificial intelligence, workforce transformation, and the growing impact of climate and circularity. Scott shares insights on the human-machine dynamic, the evolving skills gap and why investing in people is key to overcoming today’s challenges. Whether you’re an early-career professional or a seasoned leader, this episode offers actionable advice and inspiration for navigating the fast-changing supply chain landscape. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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Blockchain-Driven Supply Chain Transformation with Vinturas

In this episode of The Chain, we sit down with Ronald Kleijwegt, CEO of Vinturas, to explore the future of supply chain visibility, traceability and collaboration. Ronald shares insights on how blockchain and AI are transforming global supply chains, the importance of connecting every tier of suppliers, and how technology can help organizations respond to disruptions — from tariffs to cyber threats. Discover how leading companies are leveraging data to design agile, resilient supply chains and why cross-functional collaboration is essential for success in today’s volatile environment. Get the latest tips for improving your supply chain visibility by downloading our whitepaper. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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Revolutionizing Returns with LiquiDonate

In this episode of The Chain Podcast, we dive into the future of returns and the creation of a more sustainable and socially conscious supply chain. Our host, Abe Eshkenazi, is joined by Disney Petit, the CEO and founder of LiquiDonate. Disney shares her extensive experience working with tech companies to implement social impact programs and discusses how LiquiDonate is revolutionizing the returns process. Discover how LiquiDonate leverages existing business models and evolving technologies to reduce landfill waste and enable circularity by connecting retailers' excess unsold and returned inventory to nonprofits. Disney explains the shocking reality that about 80% of returned products end up in landfills and how LiquiDonate's innovative software helps reroute these items to nonprofits, upcyclers, or recyclers. We also explore the environmental impact of returns, the inefficiencies in reverse logistics and the role of e-commerce in complicating the returns process. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast

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The Future of Supply Chain Leadership

Join host Abe Eshkenazi and Dr. Zal Phiroz, professor of supply chain management at Harvard University. Dr. Phiroz shares his unique journey from computer science to supply chain. We explore the evolving role of the Chief Supply Chain Officer, the balance between technology and critical thinking and the preparedness of the next generation of supply chain leaders. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a student entering the field, this episode provides an important look at how academia is shaping the supply chain industry. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference. Get $200 off by using code PODCAST200

Tariff Tightrope: Navigating the New Global Supply Chain

The global supply chain is walking a tariff tightrope, and the impact is reaching far and wide. Join us as we unravel the complexities of current trade negotiations and their direct effects on everything from consumer prices to long-term business strategies. David Stephen Jacoby, a leading supply chain expert, cuts through the noise, revealing how tariffs are reshaping industrial manufacturing, sparking inflationary cycles and forcing companies to rethink their very approach to sourcing and supplier relationships. Listen to the podcast, then find out more from Jacoby's book, Trump, Trade, and the End of Globalization. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. Check out our Tariff Tracker and start navigating tariffs with confidence. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference. Get $200 off by using code PODCAST200

Ulta Beauty's Supply Chain Glow-Up

ASCM CEO Abe Eskenazi sits down with Heather Lane, VP of Supply Chain Strategy and Systems at Ulta Beauty. Learn how Ulta Beauty navigated a massive supply chain transformation, accelerated by the pandemic's e-commerce boom. Heather shares insights into their innovative three-tier distribution model, featuring regional distribution centers, fast fulfillment centers and their groundbreaking market fulfillment centers. You'll also learn about the cutting-edge autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) making their operations safer and more efficient, and how their S/4HANA ERP implementation built the foundation for this agile, omnichannel approach. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference.

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Reimagining Global Supply Chain Efficiency for Retail

Retail reality check: Are we solving problems or creating new ones? Dropit President and COO, Stuart Ford, reveals the shocking truth about the retail supply chain industry. Over half of retailers are in some form of distress Roughly 20% of fashion is never worn About 40% return rates Landfills so large that they are visible from space Listen to how we can transform these challenges into opportunities and enhance sustainability. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference.

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Logistics of Humanitarian Aid

How do you orchestrate logistics aid in a disaster zone? Well, it's a bit like juggling "greasy cats" Host and ASCM CEO Abe Eshkenazi sits down with Kathy Fulton, Executive Director of the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN), to discuss the vital role of logistics and supply chain management in disaster relief. Kathy shares her experiences and insights on how ALAN collaborates with nonprofit organizations and private industry to ensure that essential resources like food, water, shelter, and medical care reach disaster survivors efficiently and effectively. Learn how you can help ALAN and the network of non-profits by visiting alanaid.org. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference.

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Beyond the Expiration Date: Rethinking Shelf Life and Distribution

Mitigating the increase of global food waste is a constant challenge for supply chains and consumers alike. That’s why we invited Professor Linda Dunn to share her strategies and excitement about cutting-edge supply chain technology that can help with perishable goods’ inventory and distribution. If you want to prepare yourself and your company to face the challenges ahead, download ASCM's Top 10 Supply Chain Trends of 2025. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference.

Demand Signals: Consumers Cast Their Votes

Consumers play a significant role in shaping our global supply chains. Whenever you make a purchase, you cast a vote and signal to companies what needs to be manufactured, restocked, shipped, and sold. Imagine if consumers had increased visibility into supply chains and knew exactly where all their products were made and sourced. Would that change their buying habits? In this episode, Abe Eshkenzai, CEO of ASCM, is joined by Professor Merieke Stevens to discuss why it's essential that consumers, producers, and policymakers work together to improve global supply chain operations. Did you know visibility and traceability is the #6 need-to-know supply chain trend of 2025? Leading supply chain organizations are leveraging advanced technologies to enhance visibility and traceability across their operations. If you want to prepare yourself and your company to face the challenges ahead, download ASCM's Top 10 Supply Chain Trends of 2025. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference.

Tariffs Hitting Hard: Supply Chain Experts Weigh In

Our conversation continues on the subject of tariffs. Global trade evolves as the current U.S. administration launches then postpones tariffs on U.S. trading partners, China, Mexico and Canada. ASCM CEO Abe Eshkenazi is joined again by supply chain expert Alastair Charatan and Douglas Kent, ASCM's executive vice president of corporate and strategic alliances. Listen as they discuss what's new in the global trade landscape and how supply chain organizations can navigate the ebbs and flows of tariffs. Did you know global trade is the #2 need-to-know supply chain trend of 2025? Global trade dynamics and geopolitical policies continue to evolve, posing significant supply chain challenges. If you want to prepare yourself and your company to face the challenges ahead, download ASCM's Top 10 Supply Chain Trends of 2025. Want more supply chain knowledge? Visit ASCM.org. For more details on The Chain Podcast, visit ascm.org/podcast Register for CHAINge now and join supply chain leaders from around the globe at ASCM's transformative supply chain conference.