Making Supply Chains Smarter: A Career in Optimization and Analytics

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Scott Mason, a seasoned supply chain leader whose career spans high-impact roles in industry, academia, and now at Amazon, where he leads optimization efforts for under-the-roof operations.Scott shares how his early experiences in semiconductor manufacturing and consulting laid the groundwork for a career focused on modeling, analytics, and systems thinking. He reflects on his academic tenure at Clemson and the University of Arkansas, and what ultimately brought him back into industry to help Amazon move over 100 million packages a day with precision and efficiency.We explore:The evolution of supply chain modeling — from spreadsheets to AIThe critical balance between hard skills and soft skillsWhy empathy, communication, and self-awareness matter more than everHow Amazon's culture fosters innovation at scaleLeadership lessons across academia, consulting, and techWhether you're a student, a seasoned professional, or someone exploring a pivot in supply chain, Scott’s insights offer a grounded roadmap for building a meaningful, impactful career.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers podcast, we sit down with John Peoples, a seasoned supply chain and operations leader whose career spans major organizations like Ford, Halliburton, Coca-Cola, and Domino’s.John shares how he built his career from the plant floor to multi-site operations leadership—emphasizing the importance of curiosity, continuous improvement, and a people-first leadership style. From leading startup facilities to turning around underperforming sites, John reveals how emotional safety, empowerment, and team culture drive performance at scale.You’ll hear:Why frontline experience is critical to long-term leadership successThe difference between managing a single site vs. multiple operationsHow to build trust, drive metrics, and develop high-performing teamsThe role of mentorship, networking, and advocacy in career growthAdvice for young professionals looking to lead in manufacturingWhether you're early in your career or looking to step into senior operations leadership, John offers grounded, practical insights you can apply today.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this insightful episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Lotardo, consultant, writer, training creator, and author of "Leading Yourself." This episode is part of our "Talent Building and Engagement" podcast series. Elizabeth shares powerful insights on overcoming burnout, finding true meaning at work, and driving personal and professional motivation. Learn how to distinguish between compliance and commitment, the critical importance of soft skills, and how emotional intelligence and effective communication can transform your career. Elizabeth emphasizes the role of self-leadership, offering actionable strategies to help you navigate changes, foster deeper engagement, and create lasting fulfillment at work. Whether you're feeling stuck, searching for motivation, or aiming to build a more meaningful professional life, this episode provides valuable guidance to empower your career journey.Watch more Supply Chain Careers podcast episodes:Click hereNeed help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Bob Ferrari, a seasoned industry analyst, consultant, and founder of Supply Chain Matters. Bob shares his incredible career journey, from an unexpected start in logistics to becoming a thought leader in supply chain strategy, technology, and workforce trends.We explore the evolving landscape of supply chain management, the role of AI and machine learning, the impact of reshoring and nearshoring, and how professionals can future-proof their careers in an ever-changing industry. Bob also highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and adaptability, emphasizing that supply chain is more than just processes and technology—it’s a relationship-driven community.Tune in for valuable career insights, thought-provoking discussions, and a look at what’s ahead for supply chain professionals in 2025 and beyond.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, hosts Rodney Apple and Chris Gaffney sit down with David Shillingford, CoFounder of Everstream Analytics, to explore the evolving landscape of supply chain risk management. David shares his unconventional career journey—from the British Army to leading analytics-driven startups—and provides invaluable insights into how businesses can proactively manage risk in today's complex global supply chains.With real-world examples and expert advice, this episode is a must-listen for supply chain professionals, business leaders, and aspiring risk managers looking to stay ahead of industry challenges.🎧 Tune in now and learn how to build a more resilient, risk-optimized supply chain!Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Erin Horvath, former Chief Operating Officer at United Natural Foods (UNFI), to explore her remarkable journey from project management to the C-suite. Erin shares how her early experience in project management shaped her leadership style, the importance of execution in driving career growth, and the pivotal moments that defined her rise to executive leadership.She dives into how an enterprise mindset, curiosity, and cross-functional collaboration played key roles in her success—and why making bold career moves, embracing transformation, and learning from every experience can set aspiring leaders apart. Erin also discusses the future of supply chain leadership, the impact of AI, and why decisiveness and urgency are more critical than ever.Whether you're an early-career professional looking to break into leadership or a seasoned supply chain executive navigating transformation, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you lead with confidence and drive real impact.🎧 Tune in now and learn how getting things done can define your path to leadershipNeed help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

What happens when a near-death experience completely shifts your perspective on life and leadership? In this powerful episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Tarek Taha, Senior Director of Engineering & Technology at J.B. Hunt, to hear his incredible journey - from a thriving career to a life-threatening illness that forced him to rethink everything.Tarek shares how a sudden and severe brain infection nearly took his life, the difficult choice to undergo high-risk surgery, and how the experience ignited a passion for mentorship, leadership development, and coaching. He reflects on the pivotal moments in his career, the lessons he’s learned about leading people through change, and how he helps young engineers and professionals unlock their potential.Tune in to hear how Tarek’s journey through adversity led him to embrace servant leadership, career coaching, and purpose-driven success. Whether you're an aspiring supply chain leader, an experienced professional, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways on career growth, resilience, and the true meaning of leadership.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

Chris Wall, co-founder and CEO of Zeus Logics sits down with Rodney Apple to talk about the impact of Trump tariffs and other things to look for in 2025 in the global supply chain landscape. Chris is the co founder and CEO of Zeus Logics, which is a global trade And logistics company. Chris's expertise in global trade policy helps us explore the evolving dynamics of global trade and logistics under the backdrop of changing policies as we roll into 2025 under a new Trump administration. From the lasting impacts of tariffs and trade agreements to the rise of automation and the future of supply chain talent, Chris shares invaluable insights on what lies ahead for businesses and professionals alike. Don't miss this forward-thinking discussion packed with actionable takeaways for navigating the future of supply chain management as we head into 2025.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

This episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast features Glen Wegel, who brings 25 years of experience to the table, including his role since 2018 with Kitchen Cabinet Distributors (KCD). At KCD, Glen oversees logistics, distribution, delivery and transportation, and domestic manufacturing, while also leading the Information Technology and Environmental, Health & Safety teams. Notably, this has been during a period of extraordinary growth—over 1,200%.Glen shares how he began his supply chain journey, highlighting the foundational value of his Army service and his passion for developing teams and optimizing complex or broken systems, particularly in fast-changing or high-pressure environments. He discusses his methods for leading teams, the satisfaction of watching them level up, and the importance of accountability and trust in driving continuous progress in processes.Tune in to hear Glen's insights on managing change and large-scale projects, his perspective on key industry trends, and the invaluable advice he has received throughout his career—and now shares with others.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this special edition of the Supply Chain Careers podcast, hosts Mike Ogle, Chris Gaffney, and Rodney Apple discuss the impact of the post-election landscape on supply chain talent and strategies and how executives can mitigate risks moving into 2025. Key topics include the potential for increased tariffs, changes to trade policies, and their ripple effects on industries like manufacturing, procurement, and logistics. They explore the rising demand for automation, workforce challenges, and the critical need for strategic sourcing and talent agility. Companies are urged to diversify supply chains, embrace AI, and focus on workforce upskilling, while individuals should enhance their adaptability and technical skills to stay competitive.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing