The Buzz: Sustainability in Modern Supply Chains

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton talks with Jake Barr, CEO at BlueWorld Supply Chain Consulting, and Karin Bursa, CEO of NIRAKIO, to break down key takeaways from Gartner’s 2025 Supply Chain Symposiums in Orlando and Barcelona. They explore the “never normal” concept and why supply chain leaders must embrace constant disruption. Jake shares his insights on why visibility alone is no longer enough and why leaders need to focus on the consequences of real-time data. The trio also discusses the growing importance of AI in transforming supply chain operations, from advanced scenario planning to the rise of agentic AI. As we head into the second half of 2025, Jake and Karin provide actionable advice for leaders to better navigate ongoing disruptions and improve their supply chain strategies with a laser focus on continuous learning and AI-driven solutions.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Watch NOW on YouTube Connect with Karin Bursa Learn more about NIRAKIO Connect with Jake Barr Learn more about Gartner Learn more about…

In this new episode of the NOW Generation series on Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and guest host Deborah Dull welcome Dr. Peter Haug, Sam Nocera, and Joshua Young from Western Washington University to explore how the NOW generation is shaping the future of supply chain management. They discuss a first-of-its-kind case competition hosted by the university, where student teams tackled the challenge of creating a circular supply chain model for industrial pumps—an ambitious problem grounded in real-world complexity. Sam and Joshua, both first-year students, share how their team designed an innovative and decentralized repair hub strategy that leveraged predictive maintenance, digital passports, and augmented reality tools. Deborah and Dr. Haug offer context about the program’s industry-partnered education model and share how mentorship, internships, and case-based learning are preparing students to solve tomorrow’s challenges today.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Deborah Dull, and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Watch NOW on YouTube Connect with Deborah Dull Connect with Dr. Peter Haug Connect with Sam Nocera Connect with Joshua Young Learn more about Western Washington University…