Share:

Over the last few years, we have seen ports closed for labor strikes, COVID, and the Ever Given getting stuck sideways in the Suez Canal. Every time a port is closed, it disrupts the flow of materials for a whole region and creates hardships for vast areas and communities that count on that port to supply them with all kinds of things.

But can a closed port be a world history changing rallying point? It was in 1774. In fact, closing the port of Boston led to a turn in public opinion that brought together the residents of the Massachusetts Bay Colony – separatists and loyalists alike – as well as the other 12 colonies. It was a catalyst leading up to the American Revolution.

Listen to this episode of This Week in Business History as host Kelly Barner shares the very business-driven history of the Boston Port Act, which took effect on June 1, 1774.

More Podcast Episodes

innovation
play-button-podcast
podcast-blue-microphone
Podcast
December 4, 2025

The Future of Art Meets Logistics: Drue Kataoka on Purpose, Vision & Innovation

In this inspiring episode of Logistics with Purpose®, presented by Vector Global Logistics in partnership with Supply Chain Now, hosts Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter sit down with world-renowned artist and technologist Drue Kataoka. As CEO of Drue Kataoka Art Studios in Silicon Valley, Drue blends art, science, meditation, and emerging technologies to create visionary works that span more than 30 countries—including several pieces sent to space. Drue shares how her Zen and Samurai heritage shapes her approach to creativity, the power of meditation, and why building a strong “vision muscle” is essential in today’s fast-moving visual AI landscape. She also reveals how art and logistics overlap in their shared mission to orchestrate complexity, purpose, and innovation. Throughout the conversation, Drue reflects on: Her multidisciplinary education at Stanford, Harvard, and Yale Her work with Space for Humanity and creating art for space missions The story behind her iconic piece, “Vitruvian Woman”, and its message of modern inclusivity How artists can embrace AI rather than fear it The balance between consuming and creating—and how it drives productivity Her global speaking work with the World Economic Forum If you’re passionate about creativity, innovation, technology, or purpose-driven impact—this episode is packed with insights…
reliability
play-button-podcast
podcast-blue-microphone
Podcast
May 1, 2024

Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa: The Power of Local Solutions & Global Connections

We’re continuing our series on leadership within the booming supply chains of Africa and delving deep into the dynamic and challenging world of the African supply chain ecosystem. In this episode, hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love, we’re thrilled to have two exceptional guests with us – Jacques de Villiers, Head of Supply Chain for the Omnia Group, an influential heavyweight in the mining and agriculture sectors, and MJ Schoemaker, President of the Board at SAPICS, where she’s leading from the front to uplift and transform supply chain professionalism through educational initiatives and community engagement. Listen in as we discuss the hurdles and prospects of supply chain operations, touching upon critical issues like infrastructure, education, and the shifting paradigms from efficiency to reliability in a world where environmental and social considerations are paramount. MJ brings us insights from the upcoming 46th SAPICS conference, focusing on global healthcare, sustainability, and the importance of networking in our era of significant change. From the fine after-notes of South African wines to the empowering stories of local solutions like WhatsApp-enabled supply networks, we’ll explore how agility, diversity of thought, and mentorship shape future supply chain leaders. Stay tuned for actionable insights and…

This Week in Business History for May 31st: 18th Century Supply Chain Disruption- The Boston Port Act

Share:

Coming soon!