In this edition of This Week in Business History, Kelly Barner takes listeners back to visit an era and a place mythologized by one of the most popular Christmas stories of all time: A Christmas Carol. The story, which was written by Charles Dickens and published in 1843, addresses a number of economic and social issues that not only marked the impact of the Industrial Revolution and emerging middle class, but how poverty was viewed and treated by society at the time.
More Podcast Episodes
reverse logistics
Podcast
May 15, 2026
The Buzz: How Reverse Logistics Is Reshaping Retail and Recommerce
In this episode of The Buzz, we explore the future of reverse logistics, circularity, supply chain design, and the growing role of AI in transforming how businesses move, manage, and reuse products. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by OptiLogic! Hosts Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson break down several major supply chain developments, including the rise of AI-first supply chain design, the growing need for visibility in big and bulky retail deliveries, and Amazon’s expanding supply chain services. Special guest Sender Shamiss, CEO and co-founder of ReturnPro, joins the conversation to unpack why reverse logistics is becoming a major strategic opportunity, not just a cost center. From returns management and recommerce to circularity, fraud detection, and the future of reusable materials, this episode offers a practical look at how supply chain leaders can unlock value, reduce waste, and rethink what happens after the sale. Key Learnings & Takeaways AI-first supply chain design is accelerating smarter, faster decision-making Big and bulky retail delivery still needs better visibility and customer communication Amazon’s supply chain services could reshape fulfillment, logistics, and recommerce Reverse logistics is moving from a back-end function to a strategic growth engine Reuse should come before recycling when building circular supply…
FedEx returns
Podcast
May 1, 2026
The Buzz: Data Gaps, Boeing’s Comeback, & the $700B Returns Boom
In this episode of The Buzz, we unpack the growing complexity of returns, explore the gap between data and decision-making in manufacturing, and examine Boeing’s ongoing turnaround—plus a powerful conversation on leadership, execution, and empowering the frontline—welcome to The Buzz, powered by DOSS! Hosts Scott Luton and special guest host Ray Attiyah break down the $700B returns economy and how companies like UPS are turning reverse logistics into a competitive advantage. The conversation also dives into new data on manufacturing decision-making—and why visibility alone isn’t enough without clear action. Plus, the team explores Boeing’s slow but steady recovery and what it really takes to rebuild trust at scale. This episode delivers practical, real-world perspective on execution, leadership, and how organizations can stay resilient in uncertain times. Key Learnings & Takeaways: Returns are a $700B opportunity—customer experience now defines brand loyalty Easy, frictionless returns can drive repeat purchases and long-term loyalty Manufacturing data is improving—but decision-making frameworks are lagging Visibility isn’t enough—leaders need actionable insights, not just dashboards Only 9% of manufacturers can identify root causes in real time—leaving many stuck in firefighting mode Boeing’s recovery highlights the long road from lost trust to regained confidence Execution > strategy—top organizations are…