Operating conditions in the freight and logistics industry are evolving rapidly, driven by shifting market dynamics and ongoing disruptions. With the freight market’s volatility, capacity constraints, and changing cost structures, leaders must adapt quickly to make informed decisions and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly uncertain environment. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by special guest host Jake Barr. Together, they talk to Bobby Holland, Vice President/Director of Freight Business Analytics at U.S. Bank, and Dr. Chris Caplice, Chief Scientist at DAT Freight & Analytics, to dive deep into the inaugural U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index, Rates Edition, a comprehensive resource that provides crucial insights into freight rates, spot and contract rates, fuel prices, and more. The panel explores how supply chain leaders can leverage this data to optimize freight strategies, anticipate market shifts, and make data-driven decisions with confidence. The discussion also highlights the importance of scenario analysis and flexibility in managing supply chain risks, emphasizing how agility can turn disruption into opportunity. The conversation wraps up with practical takeaways on building more resilient supply chains, improving forecasting accuracy, and preparing for the next phase of freight market evolution.   This episode is…

What can classic vacation movies teach us about building stronger, smarter supply chains? In this episode, Scott W. Luton welcomes back Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, for another fun and insightful edition of Supply Chain Today and Tomorrow. With summer vacation season in full swing, Scott and Mike take a creative look at the supply chain and leadership lessons hidden inside classic vacation themed movies, from Vacation and Home Alone to Jurassic Park, Jaws, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Apollo 13. Mike breaks down three major themes every supply chain leader should keep in mind: preparing for disruption, improving visibility, and understanding how human factors drive outcomes. They also discuss the ongoing impact of AI on operating models, organizational design, talent strategy, and practical adoption. Mike shares why AI is no longer a question of “if,” but “how,” emphasizing the importance of augmentation over automation and the continued need for human oversight. From planning for disruption and avoiding single points of failure to listening to frontline warning signs and keeping teams focused during a crisis, the conversation delivers timely, actionable insights for leaders navigating today’s complex supply chain environment with creativity, clarity, and resilience.   This episode is…