Supply Chain Now

What if the next big supply chain breakthrough also creates one of its biggest security risks?
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Akhilesh Agarwal, President of P2P Solutions and Technology at apexanalytix, and William McNeill, Vice President of Market Intelligence at apexanalytix, for an in-depth discussion on quantum computing’s role in supply chains. They examine how it can improve visibility, risk management, and decision-making. Akhilesh and William stress the importance of preparing now, as waiting could expose companies to risks.
The conversation also covers the convergence of quantum computing and AI, enhancing predictive analytics, supply chain modeling, and risk management. The episode concludes with practical steps leaders can take to prepare for quantum disruptions and stay ahead as the technology evolves.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(04:26) Sci-fi influences and tech discussion
(07:49) Career background and journey details
(10:16) Overview of apexanalytix's work
(12:30) Why they wrote the quantum paper
(17:34) Comparing quantum risk to AI delays
(21:19) Why quantum is both overhyped and underestimated
(26:26) Quantum’s potential for deep visibility
(32:21) The power of quantum risk modeling
(32:54) Data hurdles in supplier visibility
(33:40) Quantum access and the risk of bad actors
(37:45) The rise of quantum computing as a service
(39:34) Near-term risks and HNDL explained
(44:08) Compliance, insurance, and data lifespan
(47:13) Misconceptions about quantum readiness
(51:53) Practical steps to take in 24 months
Additional Links & Resources:
Connect with Akhilesh Agarwal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akhilesh78/
Connect with William McNeill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wimcneill/
Learn more about apexanalytix: https://apexanalytix.com/
Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
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
Supply Chain Now en Espanol WEBINAR- Visibilidad estrategica en Pharma: control, cumplimiento y resiliencia en entornos de alto riesgo: https://bit.ly/4rku7lC
WEBINAR- Talent Management Playbook for Supply Chain Leaders: https://bit.ly/4uc2OfB
WEBINAR- From Workforce Planning to Hourly Performance Management: How GEODIS Americas Turned Labor Productivity into a Growth Engine: https://bit.ly/4blRfKp
WEBINAR- Ahead of Disruption: How AI-First Design Builds Supply Chain Resilience — and Transforms the Teams Behind It: https://bit.ly/4ldRn3b

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/quantum-paradox-what-supply-chain-leaders-need-know-1562

Asia is playing a bigger role in global supply chains as trade shifts, regional demand grows, and companies focus on execution over noise.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Raymon Krishnan, President of The Logistics & Supply Chain Management Society, and Brett Marshall, Editor-in-Chief of LogiSYM Magazine, for a grounded conversation on what’s happening across Asia and Southeast Asia. From Singapore’s role as a logistics and coordination hub to the rise of domestic markets across the region, they walk through the changes influencing how supply chains operate today.
Scott, Raymon, and Brett discuss how companies are adjusting to new trade patterns, building stronger regional capabilities, and managing ongoing disruption while keeping day-to-day operations on track. They share practical examples of how AI is being used in procurement and freight, while emphasizing the need to focus on what delivers results.
The conversation also covers the growing importance of risk management, the need for continuous learning, and the role of relationships in keeping supply chains running. The episode closes with insights on Singapore’s next phase of growth, the rise of reverse logistics innovation, and the people-first mindset that continues to drive the industry forward.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(03:38) Warm-up stories and sports talk
(08:03) Optimism and caution in global supply chains
(12:34) Looking past headlines in supply chain news
(16:30) Staying focused amid constant disruption
(21:23) Rebalancing vs reinvention in global supply chains
(30:26) Practical AI use cases in logistics
(32:49) Skills and leadership for the future workforce
(39:46) Singapore’s logistics strategy and infrastructure
(46:41) Reverse logistics and sustainability initiatives
(50:07) LogiSYM APAC and industry collaboration
Additional Links & Resources:
Connect with Raymon Krishnan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymonkrishnan/
Connect with Brett Marshall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-marshall-944b537/
Learn more about The Logistics & Supply Chain Management Society: https://lscms.org/
Learn more about LogiSYM Magazine: https://magazine.logisym.org/magazine/
Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
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
Supply Chain Now en Espanol WEBINAR- Visibilidad estrategica en Pharma: control, cumplimiento y resiliencia en entornos de alto riesgo: https://bit.ly/4rku7lC
WEBINAR- Talent Management Playbook for Supply Chain Leaders: https://bit.ly/4uc2OfB
WEBINAR- From Workforce Planning to Hourly Performance Management: How GEODIS Americas Turned Labor Productivity into a Growth Engine: https://bit.ly/4blRfKp
WEBINAR- Ahead of Disruption: How AI-First Design Builds Supply Chain Resilience — and Transforms the Teams Behind It: https://bit.ly/4ldRn3b

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/asia-crossroads-reinvention-risk-supply-chain-growth-1561

Geopolitical tensions are rising, supply chains are shifting, and innovation isn’t slowing down—on this episode of The Buzz, we break down what it all means and why it matters now… welcome to The Buzz, powered by project44!
In this episode, Scott Luton, Karin Bursa, and special guest Christine Barnhart unpack the far-reaching implications of the ongoing Iran conflict on global supply chains, with a close look at the Strait of Hormuz and its critical role in global oil flow. The conversation explores how potential disruptions could ripple across transportation, manufacturing, and cost structures worldwide. The team also dives into Rivian’s ambitious EV manufacturing plans in Georgia, examining both the promise and the profitability challenges facing the electric vehicle market. Rounding out the discussion, the episode highlights the growing impact of women in supply chain leadership and the importance of adaptability, visibility, and innovation in navigating today’s complex operating environment.
Tune in and learn:
The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and how disruptions could impact global oil supply and logistics costs
What the Iran conflict signals for supply chain risk management and contingency planning
Inside Rivian’s Georgia expansion and what it reveals about the evolving EV market
The ongoing challenges and opportunities in scaling electric vehicle production profitably
Why visibility, technology, and agility are essential in today’s volatile supply chain landscape
The role of women in supply chain leadership and strategies for overcoming industry barriers
How leaders can build resilience and stay ahead in an increasingly uncertain global environment

From geopolitical disruption to technological transformation, this episode is a must-listen for supply chain leaders looking to stay informed, agile, and prepared. Whether you're navigating risk, investing in innovation, or leading through change, this conversation delivers timely insights to help you move forward with confidence.
Additional Links & Resources:
Project 44: https://www.project44.com/
With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-15March2026
National Supply Chain Day: https://bit.ly/NSCD-2026
Navigating headwinds and harnessing innovation: https://bit.ly/4cQh7k6
U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: https://bit.ly/scn-usbank-wts
Karin's Post: https://bit.ly/AI-Org-Chart-KB
Sherri Post: https://bit.ly/Women-Of-The-Revolution
How the Iran conflict is impacting global ocean shipping flows: https://bit.ly/Iran-Impact-Ocean-Shipping
3 things you need to understand about how war with Iran will raise your cost of living: https://bit.ly/4rT5nkJ
Record Diesel-Price Surge Hits U.S. Truckers, Retailers and Manufacturers: https://on.wsj.com/4rx7BWE
Rivian’s crucial R2 EV launch to begin with $58,000 model in spring: https://bit.ly/4sSV3Kq
Decision44 Event: https://www.project44.com/events/decision44/
How Real Experience Changes Supply Chain Thinking: https://bit.ly/Speaking-Of-SC-Episode73
Coach Lawson's Video: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/scottwindonluton_supplychain-goodnews-activity-7438183529332649984-CmiO/
Connect with Christine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarnhart/
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
Supply Chain Now en Espanol WEBINAR- Visibilidad estrategica en Pharma: control, cumplimiento y resiliencia en entornos de alto riesgo: https://bit.ly/4rku7lC
WEBINAR- Talent Management Playbook for Supply Chain Leaders: https://bit.ly/4uc2OfB
WEBINAR- From Workforce Planning to Hourly Performance Management: How GEODIS Americas Turned Labor Productivity into a Growth Engine: https://bit.ly/4blRfKp
WEBINAR- Ahead of Disruption: How AI-First Design Builds Supply Chain Resilience — and Transforms the Teams Behind It: https://bit.ly/4ldRn3b

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-shockwaves-strategy-iran-ev-supply-chain-disruption-1560

Some of the most influential companies in today’s economy rarely make headlines. Known as the titanium economy, these small and mid-sized industrial businesses supply the parts, systems, and expertise that keep global supply chains operating.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Karin Bursa, Steffen Fuchs, Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company, and Ryan Fletcher, Partner at McKinsey & Company, to examine what makes these industrial companies so effective. The group discusses the characteristics that set them apart, from disciplined operations and close customer relationships to long-term thinking that helps them remain competitive across changing market conditions.
Steffen and Ryan also share perspectives from their work with companies in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and energy. The discussion looks at how these organizations respond to supply chain disruptions, approach growth opportunities, and invest in their people and operations. Along the way, the group explores leadership decisions, workforce development, and how companies are applying new technologies to support continued growth.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(02:28) Meet the guests and introductions
(05:05) Warmup: March Madness and theater roots
(08:22) Steffen discusses background in AI
(10:38) Ryan’s experience in mid-cap industries
(14:02) Defining the titanium economy concept
(19:50) Book impact and changes since 2022
(23:15) Global policy and geopolitics influences
(29:01) Resilience and supply chain adjustments
(35:27) The great amplification cycle explained
(37:14) Clusters, innovation, and regional growth
(38:00) Supply chain tailwinds and opportunities
(39:34) Top performers’ playbook for success
(41:25) Lead time and SKU management
(42:39) Capacity bets that lead to success
(46:02) AI as a competitive advantage
(47:53) Real-world examples of AI in practice
(54:36) Leadership lessons from the titanium economy
(01:00:40) Trends flying under the radar today
Additional Links & Resources:
Connect with Steffen Fuchs: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steffen-fuchs/
Connect with Ryan Fletcher: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanfletcher/
Connect with Karin Bursa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinbursa/
Learn more about McKinsey & Company: http://www.mckinsey.com
Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
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
Supply Chain Now en Espanol WEBINAR- Visibilidad estrategica en Pharma: control, cumplimiento y resiliencia en entornos de alto riesgo: https://bit.ly/4rku7lC
WEBINAR- Talent Management Playbook for Supply Chain Leaders: https://bit.ly/4uc2OfB
WEBINAR- From Workforce Planning to Hourly Performance Management: How GEODIS Americas Turned Labor Productivity into a Growth Engine: https://bit.ly/4blRfKp
WEBINAR- Ahead of Disruption: How AI-First Design Builds Supply Chain Resilience — and Transforms the Teams Behind It: https://bit.ly/4ldRn3b

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/titanium-economy-how-ai-supply-chains-reshaping-industrial-competitiveness-1559

Supply chains across Africa are being reshaped by sustainability pressures, public health needs, digital transformation, and the growing recognition that supply chain is ultimately about people.
In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by special guest host Jenny Froome, Founder and Director of Upavon Management, along with Liesl de Wet, Head of Accelerated Organisational Sustainability at Unitrans and Champion at the Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards (ASCEA), and ASCEA 2025 award winner Angelina Cumba, Manager, Access to Health Products at VillageReach. Together, they explore the major trends shaping African supply chains today, from climate-related disruption and technology adoption to public-private collaboration and the need to strengthen local capabilities.
Scott, Jenny, Liesl, and Angelina also spotlight the fifth anniversary of the Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards and the program's role in celebrating innovation, resilience, and real-world impact across the continent. The conversation highlights why strong supply chains depend on solid fundamentals, continuous improvement, and leadership that is both practical and purpose-driven. From humanitarian success stories and public health transformation to lessons in sustainability and system design, this episode offers a powerful look at how African supply chain leaders are solving complex challenges and creating models worth learning from around the world.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(02:02) Meet the panel and their roles in supply chain leadership
(03:43) Liesl on penguin conservation and sustainability
(06:28) Hobbies and work-life balance
(11:15) Top supply chain trends across Africa
(16:10) Shifts in public health supply chains
(19:55) Why the awards were created
(24:18) Angelina on winning and impact
(26:59) Favorite winner stories
(30:50) The Luke Commission resilience story
(33:45) Leadership lessons in supply chain
(36:40) Awards momentum and community
(37:59) What’s new for the 2026 awards
(52:27) Leadership reflections and connections
Additional Links & Resources:
Connect with Angelina Cumba: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelina-c-90304124/
Connect with Liesl de Wet: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liesl-de-wet-83903419/
Connect with Jenny Froome: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-froome-ba3b09b/
Learn more about the Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards (ASCEA): https://www.ascea.co.za/
Learn more about VillageReach: https://www.villagereach.org/
Learn more about Unitrans: https://www.unitransafrica.com/
Learn more about Upavon Management: https://upavon.co.za/
Learn more about the Luke Commission: https://www.lukecommission.org
Learn more about Books for Africa: https://www.booksforafrica.org
Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
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
Supply Chain Now en Espanol WEBINAR- Visibilidad estrategica en Pharma: control, cumplimiento y resiliencia en entornos de alto riesgo: https://bit.ly/4rku7lC
WEBINAR- Talent Management Playbook for Supply Chain Leaders: https://bit.ly/4uc2OfB
WEBINAR- From Workforce Planning to Hourly Performance Management: How GEODIS Americas Turned Labor Productivity into a Growth Engine: https://bit.ly/4blRfKp
WEBINAR- Ahead of Disruption: How AI-First Design Builds Supply Chain Resilience — and Transforms the Teams Behind It: https://bit.ly/4ldRn3b

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/celebrating-excellence-leadership-innovation-across-africa-1558