The Logistics of Logistics

Episodi

• REPOST: SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue with Wes Arentson 21.07.2026 51min

  In "SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue", Joe Lynch and Wes Arentson, Senior Sales Manager, Logistics at SPS Commerce, discuss how streamlining the supply chain's Order-to-Cash cycle is the key to accelerating business growth. About Wes Aretson Wes Arentson is a Sales Manager at SPS Commerce. He leads a logistics sales team focused on providing 3PLs and Carriers with tools to optimize their supply chains, connect with their partners more efficiently and make onboarding new customers easy. Wes has over 15 years of experience in supply chain and technology helping customers solve business problems with software and automation. About SPS Commerce SPS Commerce is the world's leading retail network, connecting trading partners across the globe to optimize supply chain operations for all stakeholders in the retail ecosystem. The company enables data-driven partnerships through innovative cloud-based technology, customer-centric service, and a team of accessible industry experts—allowing clients to focus on their core business. With over 45,000 recurring revenue customers spanning retail, grocery, distribution, supply, manufacturing, and logistics, SPS Commerce powers a vast and growing global retail network. Key Takeaways: SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue In "Optimize Speed to Revenue", Joe Lynch and Wes Arentson, Senior Sales Manager, Logistics at SPS Commerce, discuss how streamlining the supply chain's Order-to-Cash cycle is the key to accelerating business growth. Direct Correlation: Order-to-Cash Speed = Revenue Acceleration. The single most critical factor in optimizing revenue is the speed of your Order-to-Cash (O2C) cycle. Wes stresses that every inefficiency in processing orders, from receipt to payment, translates directly into delayed revenue. Streamlining O2C with efficient data exchange is the fastest way to pull cash forward. Stop Margin Leaks by Eliminating Disconnected Systems. Learn how disjointed or manual systems create costly margin leaks—the silent erosion of profitability. These leaks are often caused by the lack of connection between trading partner portals, forcing manual data re-entry and increasing the risk of chargebacks and penalties. EDI as the Foundation for Impeccable Data Quality. At the core of SPS Commerce's success is the commitment to data quality. Listeners will understand that clean, standardized, and automated data transmission via modern EDI is essential not just for compliance, but for enabling accurate forecasting and preventing operational errors for all SPS Commerce customers. Master Retailer Scorecards by Fixing Data Exchange. Achieving and exceeding Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs)—the foundation of retailer scorecards and milestones—is non-negotiable. Wes explains that a failure to meet these standards is often a symptom of poor EDI connections or the lack thereof, not operational failure. Automated, accurate EDI is the fix. Accelerate Onboarding with Proven Compliance and Security. Wes highlights the comprehensive service offered by SPS Commerce, focusing on mapping, testing, compliance, and security. This end-to-end approach drastically shaves weeks off the process of onboarding new trading partners, ensuring systems are instantly compliant and secure, which minimizes risk and accelerates time-to-revenue. The EDI Advantage: Consolidate Portals and Win More Tenders. True efficiency moves beyond basic EDI compliance. By consolidating disparate retailer portals into one platform, you eliminate the "swivel-chair" chaos. This improved efficiency and performance not only stops margin leaks but directly improves your scorecard performance, helping you win more high-value tenders. Future-Proof Partnerships with Automated Data Strategy. The conversation culminates in the shift from tactical order management to a strategic, data-driven approach. Wes advocates for using centralized EDI to build continuous learning and accountability, allowing companies to focus less on manual data work and more on connecting world-class technology with senior executives who control budget and strategy. Learn More About SPS Commerce: Optimize Speed to Revenue Wes Arentson | Linkedin SPS Commerce | Linkedin SPS Commerce Woods Distribution Case Study Arcadia Cold Storage & Logistics Case Study Jay Group Case Study The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting with Michael Rentz 14.07.2026 1h 3min

  In "How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting", Joe Lynch and Michael Rentz, Chief Revenue Officer at Gnosis Freight, discuss how operational-grade logistics data automatically simplifies complex carbon compliance. About Michael Rentz  Michael Rentz is the Chief Revenue Officer at Gnosis Freight. He joined the company in the Summer of 2020. Before joining Gnosis, he got his start in the industry with the South Carolina Ports Authority and Maersk. He left Maersk in 2018 to pursue his own endeavors, which eventually led him back to Charleston, SC, where he worked for Techstars in an attempt to stand up the first-ever Supply Chain and Logistics Accelerator. The pandemic put an unexpected halt to that, and it was then that he fortuitously met Austin McCombs (CEO/Founder of Gnosis) and Jake Hoffman (CTO of Gnosis). About Gnosis Freight Gnosis Freight is the AI-native Global Freight Operating System for enterprise supply chains. It gives logistics, operations, and finance teams real-time insight into container movement and helps them Intervene earlier when delays, inventory risk, or cost exposure arise. By linking containers to SKU- and Inventory-level detail, Gnosis enables smarter planning, improved product availability, and more predictable business performance. Powered by continuously reconciled container Intelligence, Gnosis orchestrates exception management through configurable, low-code workflow and agentic AI across logistics, finance, and operation – reducing demurrage and detention, accelerating invoice resolution, and shortening goods-to-cash cycles. Headquartered In Charleston, SC, Gnosis serves global enterprises across retail, manufacturing, and logistics-intensive industries. Learn more at gnosisfreight.com. Key Takeaways: How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting In "How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting", Joe Lynch and Michael Rentz, Chief Revenue Officer at Gnosis Freight, discuss how operational-grade logistics data automatically simplifies complex carbon compliance. The Foundation of Scope 3 Reporting is "Sovereign Data": Accurate emissions reporting is impossible without high-fidelity operational data. Gnosis Freight utilizes "sovereign data"—logistics data they originate, validate, and structure directly from primary sources (ports, terminals, carriers, and railroads) rather than relying on third-party aggregators or high-level assumptions. If your operational data isn't audit-ready, your carbon reporting won't be either. Regulatory Shifts are Turning ESG from a Checkbox into a Mandate: With major regulatory updates like California's SB 253 looming in 2027, large enterprises (doing over $1B in revenue) that touch these key economies will be legally required to disclose their Scope 3 emissions. What was once a marketing slide about "valuing the environment" is rapidly transitioning into a strict, auditable corporate compliance requirement. Solving the Category 4 "Data Black Hole": Scope 3, Category 4 emissions (upstream transportation and distribution) are notoriously fragmented and difficult to track. By overlaying the GLEC (Global Logistics Emissions Council) framework directly onto their existing container tracking data, Gnosis calculates precise emissions across every single leg of the journey—ocean transit, port idling, rail, and final-mile drayage—without requiring manual spreadsheets or guesswork. Shippers Want a Unified Operating System, Not More "Point Solutions": Enterprise Beneficial Cargo Owners (BCOs) are experiencing software fatigue and actively moving away from single-use point solutions. Instead of buying a standalone carbon tracking tool, shippers want emissions data embedded directly into their daily workflow. Gnosis solves this by making carbon tracking a seamless "flip of a switch" within their broader Container Lifecycle Management (CLM) platform. Data Must Be "Operational-Grade" to Be Useful: In logistics, if data is only 80% accurate, it is functionally 0% useful because operators will simply bypass the system and default to manual website cross-checking. For emissions data to survive a financial or regulatory audit, it must be built on the same operational-grade, real-time milestones used to run daily supply chain execution. FinOps and Carbon Audits Share the Same DNA: There is a direct parallel between auditing freight invoices and auditing carbon emissions. Gnosis found that 85% of invoice discrepancies stem from incorrect operational milestones (like when a container was actually made available). By mastering these physical execution milestones, Gnosis can simultaneously spot billing overpayments in their FinOps suite and defend carbon calculations in an emissions audit. Build Solutions by Getting in the Trenches with Customers: Gnosis's rapid growth—from navigating the pandemic's demurrage and detention (D&D) chaos to launching carbon tracking—has been entirely customer-driven. Rather than building flashy tech in a vacuum, their strategy is to deeply embed themselves with logistics managers, solve their immediate operational headaches first, and give them their time back to focus on strategic growth. Learn More About How to Turn Freight Data into Audit-Ready Scope 3 Reporting Michael Rentz | Linkedin Gnosis Freight | Linkedin Gnosis Freight Gnosis Freight: The Journey Between The Ships Carbon Emissions Landing Page Carbon Emissions Upcoming Webinar Carbon Emissions Whitepaper Gnosis Freight LinkedIn Testimonials & Case Studies Container Lifecycle Management: Gnosis Freight Streamlines International Logistics with Jake Hoffman The Container Payment Portal and the Rise of AI in Freight with Jake Hoffman The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation with Vinh Tran 09.07.2026 1h 1min

  In "The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation", Joe Lynch and Vinh Tran, Managing Director of MyBull Intelligent Machinery USA, discuss how prioritizing a facility's specific operational challenges over standard tech products leads to successful automation. About Vinh Tran Vinh Tran is the Managing Director of MyBull Intelligent Machinery USA, where he spearheads the company's North and South American strategy, commercialization, and customer deployment of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) for manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics. As the company's first U.S. employee, he built the domestic organization from the ground up, establishing its engineering, sales, after-sales support, and strategic partnerships. With over 30 years of leadership experience, including executive roles at Sensata Technologies and Continental, Tran has a proven track record in autonomous mobility, ADAS, and global business expansion across North America and Asia. Today, he focuses on accelerating industrial automation by delivering practical AMR solutions that enhance safety, productivity, and operational efficiency across the automotive, logistics, and heavy equipment sectors. Tran holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan, as well as an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from Wayne State University. About MyBull MyBull is a global innovator in autonomous robotics and intelligent logistics systems, dedicated to redefining efficiency in warehousing, manufacturing, and supply chain operations. With a focus on AI, machine learning, and modular design, MyBull empowers enterprises worldwide to achieve sustainable, future-ready automation. For more information, please visit mybull.com. Key Takeaways: The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation In "The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation", Joe Lynch and Vinh Tran, Managing Director of MyBull Intelligent Machinery USA, discuss how prioritizing a facility's specific operational challenges over standard tech products leads to successful automation. The "Product-First" Trap: Companies often fail in automation by forcing a specific product (like a forklift or tractor) into a facility without understanding the workflow first. MyBull advocates for a "problem-first" approach, focusing on the client's biggest operational bottlenecks before selecting the equipment. The Brains Behind the Robots: While MyBull utilizes partner chassis for its physical hardware, its core innovation is the Position Navigation System (PNS) kit. This standardized "brain" utilizes LiDAR, 3D SLAM mapping, and sensorics to make forklifts, tuggers, and flatbeds fully autonomous. Bridging the Indoor-to-Outdoor Gap: While indoor autonomous solutions are highly developed, the outdoor yard remains an operational blind spot. MyBull specializes in rugged, weatherproof AMRs built with large tires and enclosed compartments that seamlessly transition from warehouse Wi-Fi to outdoor cellular networks. A "Farmer" Mindset Over a "Hunter" Mindset: Drawing from his experience living in Japan, Tran emphasizes a gradual, nurturing approach to automation (akin to Kaizen). Rather than chasing instant revenue, true success comes from a slow, deliberate integration between human operators and machine processes. Labor Displacement, Not Replacement: Automation shouldn't be viewed purely as a headcount reduction tool. Instead, it eliminates mundane, hazardous, or extreme-weather tasks—such as driving a tugger in freezing snow—allowing human workers to upskill into higher-value roles like fleet management. Exposing Process Bottlenecks: Introducing automation acts as a forcing function that immediately exposes a facility's "lack of control" or fractured workflow visibility. Once a repeatable, structured robot is introduced, operational inefficiencies and shifting bottlenecks become clearly visible. Delivering Outcomes, Not Just Technology: The ultimate goal of warehouse automation is not just owning high-tech machinery, but delivering tangible operational outcomes and maximizing throughput (the number of products successfully moving out the back door). Learn More About The Problem First Approach to Warehouse Automation Vinh Tran | Linkedin MyBull | Linkedin MyBull | YouTube MyBull Case Studies The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Private Fleets Rescue Freight Brokers in 2026 with Russ Jones 07.07.2026 48min

  In "Private Fleets Rescue Freight Brokers in 2026", Joe Lynch and Russell Jones, CEO & Co-founder of Private Fleet Net Zero, discuss how unlocking empty private backhauls provides brokers with discounted, high-quality capacity to combat fraud and skyrocketing liability. About Russ Jones Russell Jones co-founded Private Fleet Net Zero to help the 45% of trucks that are in Private Fleets with usually empty backhauls find loads from $50B+ of 3PL freight spend, leveraging his leadership of Cargo Chief, which enables 1,200+ 3PL buyers with $8B+ of spend to buy transportation capacity more profitably. Previously, Mr. Jones co-founded and led two cloud-based physical security firms.  He was also the founding CEO of Clearvox Communications, which pioneered the market for cellular phone headsets, which he sold to Plantronics.  Beforehand at Adaptec, Mr. Jones doubled a $50M channel products business to $100M. Mr. Jones has been awarded 10 patents, and holds a BSBA with highest honors from Boston University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. About Private Fleet Net Zero Private Fleet Net Zero, PFNZ, is uniquely aggregating 10,000s of trucks with 1,000s of lanes of underutilized, underpriced, theft-free and superior private and dedicated fleet trucking capacity and matching via multi patent-pending technologies and artificial intelligence to $10Bs of freight spend registered on our cloud-based platform, while generating a compelling client ROI. Our network is quickly and efficiently growing both fleets and 3PLs on PFNZ, which is on a path to save 30M+ tree equivalents. Key Takeaways: Private Fleets Rescue Freight Brokers in 2026 In "Private Fleets Rescue Freight Brokers in 2026", Joe Lynch and Russell Jones, CEO & Co-founder of Private Fleet Net Zero, discuss how unlocking empty private backhauls provides brokers with discounted, high-quality capacity to combat fraud and skyrocketing liability. Massive Fleet Scale: Private Fleet Net Zero (PFNZ) has rapidly aggregated 80,000 trucks and 40,000 lanes of coverage, using patent-pending AI to match this massive pool of underutilized capacity with tens of billions of dollars in registered freight spend. The $150B Backhaul Waste: Private fleets (where the cargo owner owns the asset, like Walmart or Sherwin-Williams) make up 45% of all trucks on the highway, yet they run empty 80% of the time on their backhauls, leaving a $150 billion pool of premium capacity sitting idle. Pure Profit for Fleets: Because the primary "front haul" already covers the driver's salary, equipment, insurance, and core fuel costs, any backhaul revenue captured through PFNZ represents a 95% pure profit margin for the fleet owner. Quadrupled Broker Margins: Brokers can secure this premium capacity at a 25% discount to the market rate. In a tight market where a typical gross profit might only be $150 on an $1,150 load, cutting carrier costs from $1,000 to $750 can effectively triple or quadruple a broker's net margins. Eliminating Fraud and Liability: Shifting to private fleets bypasses the modern plague of cargo theft, cyber fraud, and "chameleon carriers" who hide bad histories under new DOT numbers. Furthermore, because private fleets have newer equipment and a third less accidents, they shield brokers from catastrophic multi-million dollar "nuclear verdicts" tied to carrier safety under the recent Montgomery ruling. Combating the 2026 Capacity Crunch: Massive federal enforcement of English language proficiency rules is projected to strip 25% of for-hire drivers (400,000 to 600,000 drivers) off the road. PFNZ rescues brokers by giving them an automated "outsourced recruiting team" to tap into stable private capacity that was previously heavily monopolized by the top 10 mega-brokerages. Seamless Integration & Sustainability: PFNZ connects to a broker's TMS within weeks via APIs, reports, or an AI bot to automatically map buying patterns. By eliminating empty miles, the platform is on track to save over 45 million tree equivalents in CO2, giving public companies and shippers a verifiable decarbonization story for SEC and board reporting. Learn More About Private Fleets Rescue Freight Brokers in 2026 Russ Jones | Linkedin Private Fleet Net Zero | Linkedin Private Fleet Net Zero Private Fleet Net Zero: The Deadhead is Dead with Russ Jones The Broken Safety System Threatening Shippers and Brokers with Chris Burroughs What is Blue Ocean Strategy | About Blue Ocean Strategy The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Ending the 60% Waste: The Radical Shift Trucking Needs Right Now with Erik Malin 02.07.2026 52min

  In "Ending the 60% Waste: The Radical Shift Trucking Needs Right Now," Joe Lynch and Erik Malin, Founder and CEO of Tetro, discuss how treating trucking as a function of time, rather than miles, is the only way to eliminate the massive inefficiencies plaguing drivers and future autonomous fleets. Time is the real commodity.  About Erik Malin Erik Malin is the founder and CEO of Tetro, a technology company rebuilding trucking for the autonomous era. He has spent his entire career in freight, where his conviction that the industry measures the wrong thing, miles instead of time, became the thesis behind Tetro. Previously, Erik was on the founding team at Baton, a freight-tech startup acquired by Ryder, and led operations at FreightTech unicorn Loadsmart. About Tetro Tetro is a technology company that operates its own trucking fleet to recapture lost supply chain time and build essential data assets. Because 60% of time is currently wasted in trucking, the most common job in America has suffered perhaps the greatest wage suppression in history, and autonomous technology will never reach its full potential since a driverless truck still loses that same 60%. By running its own fleet, Tetro is actively building the data asset necessary to eliminate this massive inefficiency and unlock the true potential of modern freight. Key Takeaways: Ending the 60% Waste: The Radical Shift Trucking Needs Right Now In "Ending the 60% Waste: The Radical Shift Trucking Needs Right Now," Joe Lynch and Erik Malin, Founder and CEO of Tetro, discuss how treating trucking as a function of time, rather than miles, is the only way to eliminate the massive inefficiencies plaguing drivers and future autonomous fleets. Time is the real commodity. The 60% Waste Phenomenon: The trucking industry suffers from massive systemic inefficiency, where 60% of potentially productive capacity is completely lost to time leakage across the entire system. A Utilization Issue, Not a Driver Shortage: Contrary to popular belief, the core issue in American trucking is utilization rather than a shortage of drivers. Public company financials show that drivers are often only productive for 4.5 hours out of their 11 federally regulated daily driving hours. The Flawed Legacy Framework of Miles: The industry still relies on a metric inherited from the Industrial Revolution—paying and planning by the mile rather than by time. This creates a severe misalignment between demand and capacity because the industry remains functionally blind to duration. The Autonomous Vehicle Myth: There is a flawed industry assumption that autonomous trucks will seamlessly solve supply chain issues. However, because a driverless truck will still lose that exact same 60% of dead time at facilities, autonomy cannot reach its full potential without solving the underlying time-tracking problem. Operating a Fleet as a Mobile Research Lab: Tetro operates its own trucking fleet not to simply be a carrier, but to generate the highly specific, proprietary data asset required to address this waste. You cannot infer or partner your way into this information; it requires proprietary hardware and execution tracking to create. Shifting From Miles to Time via AI: Tetro developed an AI forecasting tool that converts traditional commoditized lane rates per mile into a rate per hour before committing to freight. This reveals significant market mispricing, exposing "bad actors" (facilities that notoriously waste time) and highlighting efficient shippers trading at a hidden premium. Unlocking Trapped Facility Upside: Internal data shows that 30% to 70% of a driver's on-site time at a facility is completely dead time where nothing is happening. By quantifying this data, Tetro can partner with shippers to release that trapped time, creating faster inventory turns and reducing the need for costly secondary assets like drop trailers. Learn More About Ending the 60% Waste: The Radical Shift Trucking Needs Right Now Erik Malin | Linkedin Tetro | Linkedin Tetro The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• The Broken Safety System Threatening Shippers and Brokers with Chris Burroughs 30.06.2026 49min

  In "The Broken Safety System Threatening Shippers and Brokers," Joe Lynch and Chris Burroughs, President and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), discuss the fallout from a landmark Supreme Court ruling and rising freight fraud are reshaping the logistics liability landscape.  About Chris Burroughs Chris Burroughs is the President and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), a position he assumed in November 2024. With over 14 years at TIA, he previously served as Vice President of Government Affairs, overseeing legislative and regulatory efforts before Congress and federal agencies. Before joining TIA, Burroughs gained valuable experience on Capitol Hill, working for the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and the House Natural Resources Committee. He also served as Director of Government Affairs at the Twenty-First Century Group, advocating for clients in transportation, telecommunications, health care, and defense. Burroughs holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. About TIA The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $343 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org Key Takeaways: The Broken Safety System Threatening Shippers and Brokers In "The Broken Safety System Threatening Shippers and Brokers," Joe Lynch and Chris Burroughs, President and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), discuss ow the fallout from a landmark Supreme Court ruling and rising freight fraud are reshaping the logistics liability landscape.  The Montgomery Decision Resets the Liability Landscape: The Supreme Court's recent 9-0 ruling in the Montgomery case (involving C.H. Robinson) eliminated the long-standing F4A federal preemption defense for brokers regarding carrier safety selection. While 31 states had already rejected this defense prior to the ruling, the decision officially shifts safety and negligent selection liability standards back to a patchwork of differing state regulations. TIA Petitions the FMCSA for a National Carrier Selection Standard: In response to the confusion caused by the Montgomery decision, the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) filed a petition for rulemaking with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). TIA is pushing for a clear, national federal standard to dictate exactly what checks a shipper or broker must perform when vetting and selecting a trucking company, eliminating state-by-state confusion. The Core Elements of TIA's Proposed Vetting Standard: TIA outlines three baseline data points that the federal government should mandate for a secure carrier selection process: operating authority (ensuring full compliance with the FMCSA), valid insurance (confirming active, legitimate coverage to combat marketplace fraud), and safety status (verifying the carrier has not been placed out of service for safety violations or paperwork compliance issues). A Broken Data System Leaves 94% of Carriers Unrated: A major hurdle in carrier vetting is that 94% of trucking companies remain "unrated" by the federal government. Because the FMCSA relies on strenuous, physical audits and suffers from limited inspector resources (drastically worsened during the pandemic), they only audit carriers that trigger red flags. TIA strongly advocates shifting from this outdated physical audit system to an absolute, data-driven safety rating algorithm. TIA Demands the Release of the "High-Risk Carrier List": The FMCSA maintains an internal database of approximately 3,000 to 4,000 trucking companies categorized as "high-risk," based on their Safety Measurement System data. As a key part of their petition, TIA is demanding that the government publicize this list so brokers and shippers have the transparency needed to actively avoid dangerous carriers. The Sophistication and Rise of Strategic Freight Fraud: Freight fraud and cargo theft have evolved past opportunistic crimes into highly organized, international cyber syndicates. Strategic theft has skyrocketed by 1,500% since 2020. Bad actors are shifting tactics—moving away from registering new fraudulent entities to buying up clean, legitimate, 2-year-old authorities on online marketplaces, executing massive "heists," and then vanishing. Industry Consolidation and the Value of Trusted Associations: The compounding costs of increased insurance premiums, tighter vetting processes, and necessary technology stacks are expected to drive significant market consolidation, forcing smaller players out. Because of this complex environment, shippers are increasingly looking to work with brokers tied to professional organizations like TIA, which enforces a strict code of ethics, offers ongoing education, and acts as the exclusive advocacy voice for the $343 billion 3PL industry on Capitol Hill. Learn More About The Broken Safety System Threatening Shippers and Brokers Chris Burroughs | Linkedin TIA | Linkedin TIA TIA Technovations TIA Technovations with Tom Curee Trucking Through Trouble with TIA & Anne Reinke TIA Unpacks Freight: Tariffs, Trust, and the Fight Against Fraud with Chris Burroughs FMCSA Petitions for Rulemaking (Open Petitions) The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• The Dark Data Trap: Unlocking Logistics Documents with Tungsten Automation's Patrick Van Hull 25.06.2026 55min

  In "The Dark Data Trap: Unlocking Logistics Documents with Tungsten Automation's Patrick Van Hull" Joe Lynch and Patrick Van Hull, Supply Chain Industry Consultant at Tungsten Automation, discuss how intelligent document processing eliminates manual data traps to drive logistics efficiency and cost savings. About Patrick Van Hull Patrick Van Hull, widely recognized as the Supply Chain Storyteller, helps organizations transform complexity into clarity. A multi-time "Top 25 Global Thought Leader and Influencer on Supply Chain" and Supply Chain Pro-to-Know, he focuses on supply chain digitalization and capability development, showing how operational details can drive resilience and performance across the value chain. Patrick's career spans more than two decades, with leadership and advisory roles at Apple, Dell, Rio Tinto, and CVS Health, Gartner, Deloitte, and SCM World, he became known for bridging practitioner expertise with executive-level insights to turn data and technology into impactful strategies and programs. Most recently, he has focused on helping enterprises use AI-powered intelligence to strengthen resilience and anticipate disruption. He holds degrees from the University of Michigan and Duke University Fuqua School of Business, and lectures on supply chain strategy at the University of Arkansas Walton School of Business. About Tungsten Automation Tungsten Automation, formerly Kofax, is the global leader in AI-powered document and workflow automation solutions, boasting a 40-year trusted legacy and a team of 2,200 employees across 40 countries, serving over 25,000 global customers. Our commitment to innovation and customer success has earned us industry recognition, including being named a Leader in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Intelligent Document Processing. Tungsten has also been recognized by other key analysts in areas such as Intelligent Automation and Process Orchestration. We are trusted to help businesses achieve unprecedented efficiencies and reduce costs through document and workflow automation, allowing them to scale and future-proof their business. Key Takeaways: The Dark Data Trap: Unlocking Logistics Documents In "The Dark Data Trap: Unlocking Logistics Documents with Tungsten Automation's Patrick Van Hull" Joe Lynch and Patrick Van Hull, Supply Chain Industry Consultant at Tungsten Automation, discuss how intelligent document processing eliminates manual data traps to drive logistics efficiency and cost savings. Tungsten Automation Profile: Formerly Kofax, Tungsten is a global leader in AI-powered Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) and advanced workflow automation. Backed by a 40-year legacy, 2,200 employees, and 25,000+ global customers, the company was named a Leader in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for IDP. Their cloud-based platform sits cleanly over multiple, fragmented ERP and TMS networks to pull and push data seamlessly. Escaping the "Dark Data Trap": Moving a single international ocean container can require upwards of 30 separate documents. Because traditional TMS and ERP platforms can't read unstructured data (like dense PDFs, faxes, or Excel spreadsheets), this critical info becomes trapped "dark data." Tungsten uses IDP to automatically ingest, classify, and extract line-item data from over 40 different logistics document types, turning paper trails into structured, digital assets. Slashing AP Errors & Driving Revenue: Manual touchpoints in freight invoicing lead to constant billing discrepancies and human errors. Through automated multi-way matching, reconciliation, and automated exception handling, Tungsten drives "zero-touch" processing for order management and invoices. In one case study, acting as an automated "quality check" against contracted rates helped a major freight shipper capture an incremental $20 million in annual revenue. Preventing Customs and Shipment Delays: When data errors or missing documents hit customs or a port, shipments grind to a halt, triggering costly penalties, demurrage fees, and port congestion. Tungsten automates data extraction and email ingestion for customs clearance, validating regulatory documentation and compliance checks before shipments ever hit major bottlenecks. Accelerating Carrier and Supplier Onboarding: Traditional onboarding forces procurement teams into a weeks-long "paper chase" of manual risk assessments and compliance reviews. Tungsten uses automated self-service portals paired with automated risk assessments—such as using the platform to instantly verify the legitimacy of bank and credit statements—condensing onboarding timelines from weeks down to a matter of days. Bridging the Gap Between AI Hype and Reality: AI cannot solve supply chain issues without clean, unified data. Patrick notes that trying to run raw, messy documents entirely through an unguided Large Language Model (LLM) can cause the AI to run wild, exhausting months' worth of token allocations in a single week. Tungsten effectively solves this by embedding AI directly into workflows, blending traditional rules-based automation (RPA) for standard patterns with Generative and Agentic AI to manage highly complex exceptions. Elevating the Human Experience: Eliminating rudimentary data entry is ultimately a personal win for the workforce. Moving away from "swivel chair activity" and manual data chasing reduces friction and human error. By shifting repetitive tasks to automated workflows, logistics employees are freed up to use human ingenuity, focus on creative problem-solving, and ultimately enjoy more meaningful, higher-value work. Learn More About The Dark Data Trap: Unlocking Logistics Documents Patrick Van Hull | Linkedin Tungsten Automation | Linkedin Tungsten Automation Tungsten's Summits The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Electrifying the Cold Chain Without Breaking the Grid with Sam Plunkett 23.06.2026 49min

  In "Electrifying the Cold Chain Without Breaking the Grid" Joe Lynch and Sam Plunkett, CEO of Nivalis Energy Systems, discuss how self-powered, electrified trailers can drastically cut fleet costs and emissions without overwhelming the power grid.  About Sam Plunkett Sam Plunkett is CEO of Nivalis Energy Systems, where he is leading the transition away from diesel-powered refrigeration in commercial transport. Under his leadership, Nivalis is developing and deploying electrified refrigerated trailer solutions that help fleets reduce operating costs, lower emissions, and improve the efficiency of cold-chain logistics operations across North America and Europe. Prior to joining Nivalis, Sam led Battery Technology at Beam Global and built a career spanning materials science, electrochemistry, electrical engineering and product development. He holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Argonne National Laboratory in conjunction with the University of Illinois Chicago, where his strong publication record and patented innovations focused on battery thermal safety and advanced Lithium battery chemistry. Today, Sam brings this expertise in electrification, energy storage and commercial transport to Nivalis, helping bring innovative technologies from concept to real-world fleet deployment. About Nivalis Energy Systems Nivalis Energy Systems develops electrified refrigerated transport solutions designed to help fleets transition away from diesel-powered Transport Refrigeration Units (TRUs). Supporting refrigerated logistics operations across North America and Europe, the company's platforms are designed to lower operating costs, reduce maintenance requirements, and improve operational efficiency across cold-chain transport operations. Designed for both retrofit and new-trailer applications, Nivalis solutions support a wide range of trailer sizes, operational requirements, and the system is TRU agnostic. The company's technology roadmap includes next-generation multi-energy systems combining battery, solar and regenerative technologies to improve the long-haul viability of electrified refrigerated transport. Key Takeaways: Electrifying the Cold Chain Without Breaking the Grid In "Electrifying the Cold Chain Without Breaking the Grid" Joe Lynch and Sam Plunkett, CEO of Nivalis Energy Systems, discuss how self-powered, electrified trailers can drastically cut fleet costs and emissions without overwhelming the power grid.  Proven Bottom-Line Savings: Nivalis's electrified solutions have been on the road for over two years, demonstrating average operational savings of $12,000 per trailer, per year by dramatically reducing diesel consumption and mechanical maintenance costs. Strategic European Acquisition: The recent acquisition of SolarEdge eMobility brings 25 years of automotive-grade electrification engineering and manufacturing scale, accelerating Nivalis's integration of solar and regenerative braking technologies. Independence from the Power Grid: Upcoming next-generation platforms will utilize solar panels and e-axles to harvest braking energy. This allows trailers to generate their own power, drastically reducing or entirely eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming depot grid charging upgrades. Seamless, Agnostic Integration: Designed to be TRU (Transport Refrigeration Unit) agnostic, the technology easily retrofits onto existing Carrier or Thermo King systems. It requires zero operational changes from drivers, automatically powering up or down alongside the existing refrigeration unit. Trailers as Mobile Microgrids: Nivalis is building toward a future where returning trailers with latent battery capacity can push energy back into a distribution hub's grid during peak pricing hours, using AI to optimize energy usage across the entire facility. Powering Advanced Security and Compliance: The robust onboard battery provides a reliable, redundant power source for critical auxiliary systems—like advanced telematics, door-breach sensors, cameras, and pallet-level temperature tracking—without draining the tractor's alternator or relying on idling diesel engines. Expanding into Dry Vans: A new European pilot program applies Nivalis's solar and e-axle technology to standard, non-refrigerated dry vans. The harvested energy is used to slightly propel the trailer on the highway, reducing the tractor's workload and tracking toward a savings of 2,000 gallons of diesel fuel per year. Learn More About: Electrifying the Cold Chain Without Breaking the Grid Sam Plunkett | Linkedin Nivalis Energy Systems | Linkedin Nivalis Energy Sustems EU | LinkedIn Nivales Energy Systems The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• How to Predict the 2026 Intermodal Rebound with IANA's Andrew Sibold 18.06.2026 48min

  In "How to Predict the 2026 Intermodal Rebound with IANA's Andrew Sibold" Joe Lynch and Andrew Sibold, Director of Economics and Freight Policy at the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), discuss how IANA's new predictive Intermodal Volume Index (IVI) helps logistics leaders navigate shifting market capacity and operational friction to successfully forecast the 2026 freight recovery.  About Andrew Sibold Andrew Sibold is the Director of Economics and Freight Policy at the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), where he leads market analysis, research, and economic forecasting that informs both private capital strategy and public policy. Before IANA, he spent five years at the Federal Highway Administration as a financial and economic analyst, where his benefit-cost and net present value modeling helped adjudicate more than $12.1 billion in federal infrastructure grants. He came to economics through the U.S. Army, serving as an Armor officer who led logistics and operations on deployments across Europe and Central Asia. Andrew holds a Master of Public Policy from the University of Tennessee, as well as advanced degrees in economics, econometrics, and international relations. He lives in Bethesda, Maryland, with his wife and four children. About Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) is the leading industry trade association representing the combined interests of the intermodal freight community. Its membership spans the full ecosystem that moves containerized freight across modes — railroads, ocean carriers, ports and terminals, drayage and motor carriers, intermodal marketing companies, and equipment providers. IANA promotes the efficiency, safety, and growth of intermodal transportation through industry standards, professional education, government affairs, and data services. As the connective tissue of a sector that handles a substantial share of North American freight, IANA gives members a unified voice on policy and a shared infrastructure for operations. Increasingly, it also serves as a source of market intelligence, equipping members with the economic data and forecasting they need to navigate a volatile freight cycle. Key Takeaways: How to Predict the 2026 Intermodal Rebound In "How to Predict the 2026 Intermodal Rebound with IANA's Andrew Sibold" Joe Lynch and Andrew Sibold, Director of Economics and Freight Policy at the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), discuss how IANA's new predictive Intermodal Volume Index (IVI) helps logistics leaders navigate shifting market capacity and operational friction to successfully forecast the 2026 freight recovery.  IANA as the "Conductor" of the Intermodal Ecosystem: The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) serves as the critical connective tissue and unified voice for a fragmented freight community. By connecting railroads, ocean carriers, ports, drayage motor carriers, and 3PLs, IANA acts as an industry "conductor" to harmonize operations across multiple transportation modes that handle a substantial share of North American freight. Eliminating Blind Spots with the Intermodal Volume Index (IVI): Historically, intermodal freight data has been fragmented and heavily lagging—with rail data delayed by a week and port data lagging by two to three months. Launched publicly in May, IANA's new IVI solves this industry pain point by acting as a real-time, seasonally adjusted "pulse check" on North American freight activity. Shifting from Lagging to Predictive Capacity Planning: Unlike traditional freight indicators that only look backward (like GDP or older equipment data), the IVI functions as a predictive bridge. By utilizing a mathematical process to bring historical data into the present and factoring in seasonal fluctuations, it provides mid-market shippers, 3PLs, and asset-based carriers with a forward-looking forecast to confidently adjust capacity planning. Unconventional Market Strength in 2026: The IVI is currently printing quite strong—tracking right around 106 for June, which is 6% higher than the pre-COVID baseline. While total import container volumes (TEUs) have softened due to tariff effects, intermodal volumes are rebounding rapidly due to a surge in high-value domestic manufacturing freight, driven heavily by investments in data centers and infrastructure built to support modern AI. Reducing Operational Friction via Standardization: Intermodal logistics inherently suffers from handoff friction between different actors, leading to costly demurrage, detention, and lost productivity. IANA mitigates this administrative nightmare by managing standardized operational frameworks—most notably the Uniform Intermodal Interchange and Facilities Agreement (UIIA)—which serves as a single, universal contract that lowers industry insurance costs and streamlines driver registrations. Navigating Volatility and Truck-to-Rail Conversion: Global supply chains remain highly volatile due to geopolitical factors, international conflicts, and oil infrastructure damage keeping global energy prices elevated. When diesel prices spike and over-the-road trucking capacity tightens due to shifting domestic regulatory and immigration policies, the IVI helps transportation managers identify exactly when and where rail capacity is tightening so they can strategically lock in contractual rates. The Competitive Advantage of Modal Conversion: Beyond operational efficiency, IANA empowers its members to turn modal conversion into a measurable economic and environmental advantage. Because rail transport is significantly cleaner and greener than over-the-road trucking—with a single stacked rail car capable of moving the equivalent of multiple trucks—shippers are increasingly leveraging intermodal data to hit corporate sustainability mandates as the 2026 market recovers. Learn More About How to Predict the 2026 Intermodal Rebound Andrew Sibold | Linkedin IANA | Linkedin Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) Scale: The Search for Simplicity and Unity in the Complexity of Life, from Cells to Cities, Companies to Ecosystems by Geoffrey West The Box (Levinson book) – Wikipedia The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• REPOST: Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations with Michael Hane 16.06.2026 1h 1min

  In "Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations", Joe Lynch and Mike Hane, Director of Product Marketing for Transportation Management at Descartes Systems Group, discuss how to protect global supply chains from fragmented technology, carrier identity theft, and increasingly sophisticated cargo fraud. About Michael Hane Mike Hane is the Director of Product Marketing for Transportation Management at Descartes Systems Group. With more than 30 years of experience in transportation, logistics technology, and supply chain consulting, Mike helps organizations understand emerging freight trends and apply technology to build more resilient and efficient transportation operations. Prior to joining Descartes, Mike held leadership roles at DAT, Optilogic, CHAINalytics, and CAPS Logistics, where he focused on transportation strategy, network optimization, and freight market intelligence. At Descartes, he works closely with shippers, brokers, and logistics service providers to translate industry challenges into practical technology solutions across transportation management, real-time visibility, carrier connectivity, and logistics security. Mike frequently shares insights on transportation technology trends, digital transformation in freight, and the evolving role of logistics networks in global supply chains. About Descartes Systems Group Descartes powers more responsive, efficient, secure and sustainable international and domestic supply chains by uniting logistics-intensive businesses on its Global Logistics Network (GLN). Shippers, carriers, and logistics service providers connect and collaborate on the GLN leveraging technology, data and AI to manage last mile deliveries, domestic and international shipments, transportation rating and payment, global trade research, customs compliance and a variety of regulatory processes. Key Takeaways: Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations In "Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations", Joe Lynch and Mike Hane, Director of Product Marketing for Transportation Management at Descartes Systems Group, discuss how to protect global supply chains from fragmented technology, carrier identity theft, and increasingly sophisticated cargo fraud.  The 3 Key Vulnerabilities discussed are listed below: Vulnerability 1 – Outdated, Clunky Freight Tech Stack. The modern logistics tech stack is a prime target for sophisticated bad actors who are now using AI to scale their attacks. This vulnerability focuses on the integrity of the TMS suite and broader tech stack, requiring companies to have the scale and advanced defenses necessary to stay ahead of automated threats. Vulnerability 2 – Carrier Identity Theft & Freight Hijacking. Freight fraud—including double brokering and fraudulent load pickups—is a direct result of failing to verify identity at the point of transaction. This vulnerability highlights the operational risk of giving freight to an unverified actor, proving that basic vetting is no longer enough to prevent cargo loss. Vulnerability 3 – Data Exposure & Unsecured Partner Connectivity. Modern freight operations are at risk due to the fragmentation of data and automation. This vulnerability focuses on the danger of shipment data and AI tools operating outside of a trusted environment. When partners connect to technology platforms without rigorous security, the entire network becomes a target for leaks and external manipulation. Modernizing the Tech Stack: Fragmented or legacy systems create security gaps. Freight operations must move toward integrated, secure platforms rather than a patchwork of disconnected software to ensure data integrity and vendor stability. The "Verify Then Trust" Model: To combat identity theft and "chameleon carriers," logistics providers should use automated vetting to verify not just the carrier's authority, but also the specific driver and equipment via VIN and geolocation. Neutralizing Sophisticated Fraud: Cargo theft has evolved into organized corporate scams involving double brokering and fake insurance. Real-time monitoring for suspicious tracking pings or IP addresses is now essential to identify bad actors before a load is picked up. Strengthening Operational Hygiene: Security relies on strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This includes "zeroing out" inactive carriers every few months to force re-vetting and immediately revoking system access for former employees. Strategic AI Integration: AI should be used to automate high-volume manual tasks—like chasing tracking updates or proof of delivery—within a secure logistics environment to prevent sensitive financial data from being exposed to unvetted models. Global Multimodal Connectivity: Leveraging a Global Logistics Network (GLN) allows shippers and brokers to collaborate across air, ocean, and truck modes while maintaining high standards for customs and regulatory compliance. Visibility as a Risk Deterrent: Real-time visibility is a critical security layer. Monitoring for location spoofing or unauthorized stops allows for immediate intervention if a shipment is being diverted to a fraudulent location. Learn More About Is Your Freight Secure: The 3 Key Vulnerabilities in Freight Operations Mike Hane | Linkedin Descartes Systems Group | Linkedin Descartes Systems Group Your OpsForce AI Team: Meet the Future of Intelligent Visibility Transportation Management Form Vesta Freight Strengthens Customer Service and Freight Security with Descartes 3G TMS™, Descartes MacroPoint™, and Descartes MyCarrierPortal™ Scaling Logistics Innovation at Descartes Systems Group with Dan Cicerchi Unpacking Cargo Theft: Trends and Solutions with Danielle Spinelli The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• REPOST: Fleet Profitability Unleashed: The Optimal Dynamics Advantage with Zach Schuhart 11.06.2026 50min

  In "Fleet Profitability Unleashed: The Optimal Dynamics Advantage", Joe Lynch and Zach Schuchart, Senior Vice President, Head of Sales at Optimal Dynamics, discuss how decades of academic research and advanced decision intelligence are being used to automate complex logistics and maximize carrier profitability. Zach Schuchart Zach Schuchart is the Senior Vice President, Head of Sales at Optimal Dynamics. He has over 20 years of experience in the North American and European transportation industries, including roles at UPS, CHAINalytics, and XPO, he brings deep expertise and leadership to the Optimal Dynamics team. As Head of Sales, he oversees a talented group of Account Executives and Solutions Engineers, guiding prospective customers through the evaluation of advanced optimization solutions that drive operational success. About Optimal Dynamics  Optimal Dynamics provides the decision intelligence layer that powers logistics transformation. Born out of 40 years of research at Princeton University, Optimal Dynamics leverages proprietary artificial intelligence technology to automate, optimize, and radically improve decision-making across trucking and transportation operations. Headquartered in New York City, Optimal Dynamics is backed by marquee investors including Koch Disruptive Technologies, Bessemer Venture Partners, The Westly Group, and Activate Capital. Learn more at www.optimaldynamics.com. Key Takeaways: Fleet Profitability Unleashed: The Optimal Dynamics Advantage In "Fleet Profitability Unleashed: The Optimal Dynamics Advantage", Joe Lynch and Zach Schuchart, Senior Vice President, Head of Sales at Optimal Dynamics, discuss how decades of academic research and advanced decision intelligence are being used to automate complex logistics and maximize carrier profitability. From Research to Reality: The Princeton Pedigree. Optimal Dynamics isn't just another tech startup; it is built on 40 years of academic research from Princeton University. This provides a level of scientific rigor and proprietary AI that differentiates their solutions from standard off-the-shelf logistics software. The Power of "Decision Intelligence". While many platforms focus on data visibility (showing you what is happening), Zach highlights the shift toward Decision Intelligence. This layer automates and optimizes the choice itself, helping carriers move from reactive management to proactive, data-driven execution. Bridging the Gap Between Planning and Execution. Leveraging Zach's 20+ years of experience at giants like UPS and XPO, the episode explores how traditional planning often fails when it hits the "real world." Optimal Dynamics focuses on creating dynamic plans that account for the inherent volatility in trucking operations. Leveraging High-Dimensional Artificial Intelligence. The core technology focuses on solving "high-dimensional" problems. Instead of looking at simple variables, the platform uses AI to process thousands of data points simultaneously—such as driver hours, fuel costs, and lane profitability—to find the "Optimal" solution. Automating the Complexities of Trucking. Automation isn't just about replacing manual tasks; it's about augmenting human capability. Zach discusses how their solutions allow sales and operations teams to evaluate complex scenarios in minutes rather than days, drastically reducing the "evaluation-to-action" cycle. Maximizing Profitability in Volatile Markets. In an industry with razor-thin margins, "Optimal Dynamics" means finding the most profitable way to move freight despite fluctuating market conditions. The platform helps fleets identify which loads to accept and how to route them to ensure maximum fleet utilization. Strategic Backing for Long-Term Transformation. The company's growth is fueled by marquee investors like Bessemer Venture Partners and Koch Disruptive Technologies. This level of backing underscores the industry's belief that Optimal Dynamics is a foundational player in the future of global logistics infrastructure. Learn More About Fleet Profitability Unleashed: The Optimal Dynamics Advantage Zach Schuchart Optimal Dynamics | Linkedin Optimal Dynamics Optimizing for the Future: D.M. Bowman Embraces Decision Automation Shifting From Manual Grind to Automated Growth Driving Strategic Growth and Innovation with Decision Automation How Smarter Planning Leads to Stronger Performance Rapid Transformation and Record-Breaking Results at Grand Island Express During Freight Recession, BCB Transport Sees 19.6% Increase in Revenue Per Truck After Embracing Artificial Decision Intelligence The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Is Organized Tech Destroying the Small Logistics Entrepreneur with Nick Antoine 09.06.2026 57min

  In "Is Organized Tech Destroying the Small Logistics Entrepreneur" Joe Lynch and Nicholas Antoine, Co-Founder, Co-CEO, and Managing Partner of Red Arts Capital, discuss how mid-market logistics companies can leverage emerging automation and strategic "moats" to successfully survive and compete against tech-heavy enterprise giants. About Nick Antoine Nicholas Antoine is the Co-Founder, Co-CEO, and Managing Partner of Red Arts Capital, a private equity firm he co-founded in 2015 - at age 26 - to invest exclusively in supply chain and logistics businesses. A Princeton graduate, Nick began his career as an equity research analyst at Princeton Global Asset Management before joining Ariel Investments in Chicago, where he served as Chief of Staff to the Chairman and CEO of the $17 billion asset manager. At Red Arts, he leads fundraising, research, and investment thesis development, building one of the few Black-founded and -led PE firms in the country and one of the top-performing, ranked #7 on Bloomberg's 2025 Best-Performing U.S. Buyout Funds. Nick is a member of YPO and a board trustee of The Studio Museum in Harlem and WTTW (PBS Chicago). About Red Arts Capital Red Arts Capital is a Chicago-based private equity firm focused exclusively on partnering with North American supply chain and logistics businesses. Founded in 2015 by Nick Antoine and Chad Strader, Red Arts is a 100% Black-owned firm investing across the "supply chain economy" - freight, transportation, warehousing, contract packaging, and related middle-market companies with strong growth potential. In 2023, the firm closed its latest fund oversubscribed at $270M, above its $225M target, backed by institutional LPs including Prudential Financial, the University of Chicago's Office of Investments, and funds managed by Neuberger Berman. Red Arts pairs a sector-focused thesis with a belief that diversity drives performance - women represent roughly half the firm. Key Takeaways: Is Organized Tech Destroying the Small Logistics Entrepreneur In "Is Organized Tech Destroying the Small Logistics Entrepreneur" Joe Lynch and Nicholas Antoine, Co-Founder, Co-CEO, and Managing Partner of Red Arts Capital, discuss how mid-market logistics companies can leverage emerging automation and strategic "moats" to successfully survive and compete against tech-heavy enterprise giants. Firm Profile & Focus: Founded in 2015, Red Arts Capital is a 100% Black-owned, Chicago-based private equity firm that focuses exclusively on North American supply chain, logistics, and middle-market infrastructure businesses. Target Investment Profile: Unlike venture capital firms that hunt for speculative "hockey stick" growth, Red Arts invests $50M to $100M+ into established, profitable middle-market companies (typically family-owned with $100M to $500M in revenue) to provide liquidity and operational scaling. Strong Institutional Backing: Validating their sector-focused thesis, the firm closed its 2023 fund oversubscribed at $270M (surpassing its $225M target) backed by premier LPs like Prudential Financial and the University of Chicago. The Concept of "Organized Tech": Nick defines "organized technology" as a modern third form of power alongside organized people and organized capital. Large enterprise players use their scale and massive resources to deploy tech—and partner with startups for free trials—giving them a distinct, systemic advantage. An Opportunity, Not a Death Sentence: Organized tech is not inherently destroying small logistics entrepreneurs; rather, the risk lies in a lack of adaptability. Because AI and automated tools are becoming rapidly commoditized and affordable, small business survival depends on an entrepreneurial willingness to experiment. Building Defensive "Moats": To avoid competing strictly on commoditized pricing, successful logistics companies must build defensible moats. This includes high-touch customer service, strong cultural values that lower driver turnover, or geographic asset density (like uniquely zoned cross-dock terminals) that competitors cannot easily replicate. Outsized Returns from Small Tech Investments: Technology adoption doesn't require a massive overhaul to significantly impact the bottom line. In one LTL case study, Red Arts introduced a simple automated software tool to capture missed, manual accessorial charges, plugging a major revenue leak and yielding massive profit returns. Learn More About Is Organized Tech Destroying the Small Logistics Entrepreneur Nicholas Antoine | Linkedin Red Arts Capital | Linkedin Red Arts Capital Bloomberg executive profile Investing in Supply Chain Solutions with Nick Antoine of Red Arts Capital | Impact Podcast Black Professionals in PE & Finance spotlight | McGuireWoods Fund close coverage | $270M, Business Wire Organized Technology: A New Power Defining The American Dream | Forbes The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Short Lines, Big Impact: How Short Line Railroads Power America's Supply Chain with Joey Evans 04.06.2026 59min

  In "Short Lines, Big Impact: How Short Line Railroads Power America's Supply Chain" Joe Lynch and Joey Evans, Senior Director, Government Affairs & Business Development, TNW Corporation, discuss how Class III short line railroads leverage technology, sustainability, and first-and-last-mile service to keep American commerce moving. About Joey Evans Joey Evans is the Senior Director, Government Affairs & Business Development, TNW Corporation. He is a seasoned rail industry professional with over 20 years of experience, leading TNW's development and execution of government affairs and strategic growth initiatives. His role oversees legislative strategy, public funding efforts, real estate and industrial development projects, and supports acquisition and expansion activities aligned with the company's long-term objectives. Joey serves as President of the Texas Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (TSLRRA) and is a member of the TxDOT Freight Advisory Committee. His career spans various leadership roles across the short line railroad industry. Prior to his current position, he led Customer Success for TNW, encompassing customer service, revenue protection, and infrastructure technology. His journey began as a conductor and engineer, where hands-on experience laid the foundation for his transition into management. About TNW Corporation TNW Corporation owns and operates three short line railroads — TXNW Railway, TXGN Railway, and TXR Railway — along with multiple rail logistics facilities across Texas, serving as a strategic supply chain partner to industries, shippers, fleet managers, and Class I railroads. With more than 40 years of transportation logistics experience, TNW delivers the efficiency, reliability, and customer service that keep North American commerce moving. TXNW Railway, operating in the Texas Panhandle since 1982, is a One-Stop Supercenter and boasts the largest privately owned railcar storage capacity in the United States. TXGN Railway, also a One-Stop Supercenter, has served central Texas since 1992, operating approximately 67 miles of storage and loop track with Union Pacific interchange. TXR Railway, based in Brownwood, serves the Camp Bowie Industrial Area and interchanges with BNSF Railroad. TNW's full suite of services includes rapid interchange, transloading, railcar storage, repair, cleaning, scrapping, warehousing, and rail-served industrial development. Key Takeaways: Short Lines, Big Impact: How Short Line Railroads Power America's Supply Chain In "Short Lines, Big Impact: How Short Line Railroads Power America's Supply Chain" Joe Lynch and Joey Evans, Senior Director, Government Affairs & Business Development, TNW Corporation, discuss how Class III short line railroads leverage technology, sustainability, and first-and-last-mile service to keep American commerce moving. Revenue, Not Track Length, Defines Railroad Classes: Railroad classification is strictly determined by annual revenue, not physical distance. Class I railroads (the "interstates" like BNSF and UP) exceed $1 billion in annual revenue, Class II regional railroads fall between $1 billion and $47 million, and Class III short lines—where TNW Corporation operates—fall below $47 million. Short Lines Serve as the "First and Last Mile" for Rural America: While Class I railroads excel at long-distance freight movement, North America's 615 short line railroads provide essential first- and last-mile service to industrial parks and rural communities. Operating in smaller towns (often under 15,000 people), short lines keep vital agricultural, manufacturing, and petrochemical hubs connected to the national rail network. Lowering the Barrier to Entry with Truck-to-Rail Conversions: Because one railcar holds the equivalent capacity of four trucks (4:1 ratio), TNW launched a dedicated logistics and transloading business. This allows smaller regional shippers within a 50-to-100-mile radius to enjoy the economic benefits of rail by breaking bulk rail loads down into local trucks, without requiring a massive capital investment in dedicated track infrastructure. High-Volume Commodities and Major Public-Private Infrastructure Investments: Short lines primarily handle heavy, bulk commodities like petrochemicals, plastics, lumber, agricultural yields, and construction aggregates (rock). To support these loads, short lines reinvest a massive 33% to 50% of their annual revenue into infrastructure, a timeline accelerated by federal CRISI (Consolidated Rail Infrastructure Safety Improvement) grants to expand track fluidity. Transitioning from Rail's Historic "Black Hole" to High-Tech Visibility: Spurred by rising post-COVID consumer expectations (the "Amazon experience"), TNW developed a proprietary digital portal called My TNW. This tool eliminates the historic visibility "black hole" of rail shipping by providing customers with complete data transparency, allowing them to track cars across both TNW property and intersecting Class I networks. Embracing AI and Autonomous Infrastructure Safety: The rail industry is heavily adopting AI, autonomous railcars, and automated track inspection tools. These automated systems travel the lines to instantly pinpoint structural micro-cracks, gauge misalignments, or railcar defects. Removing the human error factor from these tedious inspections helped the rail sector chart its safest operational year in its 200-year history in 2025. Meeting Corporate ESG Targets Through "Clean and Green" Operations: Rail remains one of the most inherently sustainable modes of land transportation, moving a ton of freight roughly 500 miles on a single gallon of fuel. Beyond fuel efficiency, TNW helps shippers meet strict corporate environmental goals by certifying all properties under Operation Clean Sweep, which enforces strict handling frameworks to prevent plastic pellets and commodities from spilling into local ecosystems. Learn More About Short Lines, Big Impact: How Short Line Railroads Power America's Supply Chain Joey Evans | Linkedin TNW Corporation | Linkedin TNW Corporation | Instagram TNW Corporation | Facebook TNW Corporation | YouTube TNW Corporation The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Breaking Bulk Logistics Data Silos with IntelliTrans and Matt Everson 28.05.2026 54min

  In "Breaking Bulk Logistics Data Silos" Joe Lynch and Matt Everson, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at IntelliTrans, discuss how unifying multimodal freight technology eliminates operational blind spots and optimizes bulk supply chains. About Matt Everson Matt Everson is the Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at IntelliTrans. He brings more than 15 years of experience driving growth and building strong customer relationships in the transportation and logistics technology industry. He leads the company's sales and marketing efforts with a focus on delivering measurable value and long-term partnerships that help customers succeed. He leads the commercial and customer engagement strategy that connects shippers with technology designed to simplify logistics complexity and deliver measurable value. About IntelliTrans IntelliTrans, a business unit of Roper Technologies, delivers multimodal transportation management solutions built by experts to simplify freight complexities for bulk and breakbulk shippers. By combining real-time data, predictive risk management, and expert support, IntelliTrans provides insights to help shippers reduce costs, prevent disruptions, and deliver with confidence. IntelliTrans' mission is to keep the world's goods moving by giving transportation professionals the clarity, confidence, and control to deliver every time. Established in 1992, IntelliTrans is headquartered in Atlanta, with offices in Arkansas, London, and Sweden. Key Takeaways:  Breaking Bulk Logistics Data Silos In "Breaking Bulk Logistics Data Silos" Joe Lynch and Matt Everson, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at IntelliTrans, discuss how unifying multimodal freight technology eliminates operational blind spots and optimizes bulk supply chains. Serve the Core Bulk and Breakbulk Sectors: Focus technology and operations on shippers of heavy, raw commodities—essentially "anything that comes out of the ground," including oil, gas, chemicals, plastics, metals, agriculture, and forestry products. Dominate the North American Rail TMS Market: Establish market leadership by processing 40% of all North American railcars (excluding intermodal) on any given day and maintaining direct data connections into 95% of Class II short-line railroads. Unify Multimodal Freight to Break Data Silos: Eliminate operational blind spots for large Fortune 100 shippers by combining rail, truck, yard management, and barge data into a single comprehensive execution platform. Leverage Historical Data Cleanliness for AI Readiness: Utilize decades of specialized operational expertise and human-verified data cleaning to build high-quality datasets, positioning the platform to deliver highly accurate predictive insights as supply chain AI evolves. Optimize High-Value Asset Utilization and Fleets: Provide advanced forecasting and analytics tools that calculate a shipper's exact fleet size requirements, ensuring optimal lease management and minimizing idle railcar costs. Mitigate Overcharges and Prevent Demurrage Fees: Protect shippers from costly detention, storage, and demurrage fees by deploying automatic alerts, verifying car placement data, and actively auditing carrier invoices. Track Scope 3 Emissions for ESG Compliance: Help shippers meet modern environmental compliance standards through certified state-by-state tracking of mileage, weight, and CO2 emissions across all transportation modes. Learn More About  Breaking Bulk Logistics Data Silos Matt Everson | Linkedin IntelliTrans | Linkedin IntelliTrans The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• From Strategy to Scale: The ODW Logistics Approach to Growth with Phil Schmidbauer 26.05.2026 50min

  In "From Strategy to Scale: The ODW Logistics Approach to Growth" Joe Lynch and Phil Schmidbauer, Vice President of Solution Design at ODW Logistics, discuss how middle-market brands can scale by optimizing their entire supply chain network rather than just chasing low freight rates. About Phil Schmidbauer Phil Schmidbauer is the Vice President of Solution Design at ODW Logistics, where he specializes in creating optimized transportation and integrated supply chain strategies. A dynamic and innovative leader, Phil brings extensive industry experience focused on driving process efficiencies, eliminating waste, and delivering significant value to clients. Recognized as a top industry innovator—including being named a "Pros to Know" award winner—he excels at building strategic bridges across complex supply chain networks. Phil works closely with businesses to align their comprehensive logistics frameworks with overarching financial and operational goals. His expertise spans advanced supply chain analytics, cargo security, and network optimization studies, making him a trusted authority in helping growth-minded brands design custom-engineered solutions that reduce complexity and successfully position their businesses to scale. About ODW Logistics ODW Logistics is a top-tier, integrated third-party logistics (3PL) provider dedicated to enabling collective growth for its clients, associates, and the industry. With over 50 years of experience, ODW Logistics delivers end-to-end supply chain solutions that combine strategic warehousing, distribution, and advanced transportation management. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including food and beverage, consumer packaged goods, health and beauty, and industrial manufacturing. As an approved consolidator for major retail networks, ODW specializes in retail consolidation, strategic inventory load planning, and automated workflows that control costs and improve on-time delivery. Driven by core values of respect, trust, team, and opportunity, ODW Logistics operates as a seamless extension of its customers' businesses, providing the technology, infrastructure, and continuous innovation necessary to scale operations effectively. Key Takeaways: From Strategy to Scale: The ODW Logistics Approach to Growth In "From Strategy to Scale: The ODW Logistics Approach to Growth" Joe Lynch and Phil Schmidbauer, Vice President of Solution Design at ODW Logistics, discuss how middle-market brands can scale by optimizing their entire supply chain network rather than just chasing low freight rates. Integrated 3PL Solutions for Middle-Market Growth: ODW Logistics leverages over 50 years of experience to provide end-to-end warehousing, distribution, and managed transportation solutions, operating as a seamless extension for middle-market companies that lack the internal resources to manage complex supply chains alone. A Consultative, Total-Network Focus: Rather than just chasing the lowest transaction rate on a truck lane, Phil Schmidbauer emphasizes a consultative approach that designs and optimizes the entire supply chain, aligning warehousing and transportation around each other to reduce hidden costs, fines, and lead times. High-Frequency Retail Consolidation: ODW specializes in retail consolidation (serving major networks like Walmart and Target) by combining smaller multi-pallet shipments into full truckloads. This ensures high-frequency deliveries, which reduces lot sizes, minimizes inventory requirements, and drives better overall service. Mitigating the Cost of Stockouts: Keeping products on shelves is critical to brand survival. Stockouts cause severe financial penalties and permanent brand-loyalty loss when consumers switch to competitors—making consistent supply chain execution vital for sales growth. Managing the Hidden Costs of Excess Inventory: Influenced by his background with Toyota's world-class manufacturing processes, Schmidbauer highlights that excess inventory carries heavy hidden liabilities, including high warehousing fees, multiple touchpoints, and obsolescence or shelf-life expiration risks. The Power of a Dual-Node Network: ODW operates 27 facilities nationwide, utilizing a highly efficient dual-node setup between Southern California and Columbus, Ohio. This center-of-gravity strategy allows brands to easily meet next-day delivery demands for a massive portion of the U.S. population. Bridging the Omni-channel Divide: As retail and ecommerce models increasingly blend, ODW supports brands navigating both channels, helping companies scale and transition their operational structures from online-only to brick-and-mortar retail fulfillment seamlessly. Learn More About From Strategy to Scale: The ODW Logistics Approach to Growth Phil Schmidbauer | Linkedin ODW Logistics | Linkedin ODW Logistics The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• REPOST: The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year with Logisyn's CEO Ron Lentz 21.05.2026 58min

  In "The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year with Logisyn's CEO Ron Lentz", Joe Lynch and Ron Lentz, CEO of Logisyn Advisors, discuss how $4 trillion in untapped capital and industry consolidation are driving a major wave of logistics exits. About Ron Lentz Ron Lentz is a founding partner and CEO of Logisyn Advisors, recognized as a logistics subject matter expert with over 40 years of industry experience. His deep knowledge of capital markets, combined with an extensive global network spanning logistics firms, private equity, family funds, and debt financing, enables him to help clients maximize returns across all M&A services. Ron's expertise covers key logistics sub-sectors, including e-commerce fulfillment, asset-light logistics, final-mile delivery, 3PLs, specialty hauling, air cargo, and freight forwarding. His career includes international executive leadership at Ryder Logistics, over a decade of C-level assignments, and a track record of transforming Fortune 500 companies, startups, and turnarounds into high-performing businesses. About Logisyn Advisors Logisyn Advisors is an M&A advisor specializing in the transportation and logistics sector. The firm's customers include global freight forwarders, customs house brokers, domestic forwarders, trucking companies, logistics software providers, and many other companies across the industry. Logisyn provides a variety of M&A services, including buy-side advisory for companies looking to grow through acquisition, sell-side advisory for entrepreneurs looking to exit and capitalize on the businesses they've built, and enterprise valuation services for managers looking to gain a better understanding of the value of their business. The company has a proven track record of advising executives navigating the M&A process and is actively engaged with leading companies across the logistics industry. Key Takeaways: The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year In "The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year with Logisyn's CEO Ron Lentz", Joe Lynch and Ron Lentz, CEO of Logisyn Advisors, discuss how $4 trillion in untapped capital and industry consolidation are driving a major wave of logistics exits. The Power of "Logistics-First" Specialization: Unlike "industry agnostic" investment banks, Logisyn only hires former operators who understand the intricate day-to-day realities of the supply chain. Ron emphasizes that a generalist banker can cause a "generalist penalty," where the unique operational value and specialized assets of a logistics firm are lost in translation during a deal. The $4 Trillion "Dry Powder" Catalyst: A massive driver for the 2026 rebound is the estimated $4 trillion in global private equity "dry powder." Much of this is older capital that firms must "use or lose," creating a high-pressure environment for acquisitions in fragmented markets like transportation. The "Six Ps" of Market Readiness: Ron lives by the mantra: Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance. Success requires "staging the house" by cleaning up these financials 12–24 months before an exit. Asset-Based Logistics is Primed for a Bull Run: While freight brokerage is facing a "leaner and meaner" period due to AI and fee transparency, Ron is incredibly bullish on asset-based carriers. As driver shortages persist and capital costs for equipment remain high, those who actually control the trucks will hold the most leverage in the coming year. Cultural Compatibility is the #1 Deal Killer: Citing PWC data, Ron highlights that cultural alignment is the primary reason mergers succeed or fail. For entrepreneurs, selling isn't just a financial transaction; it's "giving up their baby." A successful M&A advisor acts as much as a counselor as a banker to ensure the legacy remains intact. The "Jigsaw Puzzle" Strategy for Buyers: Strategic acquisitions in 2026 are moving away from simple "growth for growth's sake." Buyers are looking for specific "jigsaw pieces"—such as a niche cold chain specialty in the Southeast or a robust tech stack—to create a "pure play" offering that doesn't require a "fixer-upper" effort. The Death of the "Country Club" Broker: The complexity of modern logistics—from AI-driven RFPs to real-time WMS integration—means owners can no longer rely on a general business broker or a "golfing buddy" to sell their company. To maximize the 8x to 10x multiples, founders need advisors who can navigate the deep-dive diligence of tech-savvy private equity buyers. Learn More About The 2026 M&A Rebound: Why Logistics is Primed for a Banner Year Ron Lentz | Linkedin Logisyn Advisors | Linkedin Logisyn Advisors Customer Testimonials Logistics M&A Club Events The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight with Alex Fuller 19.05.2026 50min

  In "The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight" Joe Lynch and Alex Fuller, Sr. Director of Revenue Management & Solutions at TRAFFIX, discuss the end of the freight recession and how rising rates, nearshoring, and market volatility are reshaping North American supply chains. About Alex Fuller Alex Fuller, Sr. Director of Revenue Management & Solutions at TRAFFIX, focuses on understanding market trends and helping customers grow through customized supply chain solutions, technology, and AI integration. Passionate about supply chains and business growth, Alex earned his undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management from BYU before beginning his career with a CPG company managing imports from China and distribution across the United States. He later completed his MBA at the University of Virginia and went on to build extensive industry experience with UPS and UPS Supply Chain Solutions prior to joining TRAFFIX. Outside of work, Alex is a former professional triathlete and recently completed the Boston Marathon, reflecting the same discipline and endurance he brings to his professional career. About TRAFFIX TRAFFIX is a leading North American 3PL that has been delivering customized supply chain solutions since 1979. With a customer-first approach, TRAFFIX partners with shippers to create flexible, scalable logistics strategies tailored to their unique business needs. The company offers a full suite of services, including truckload, flatbed, intermodal, drayage, expedited, LTL, managed transportation, and specialized government solutions. Backed by experienced logistics experts, TRAFFIX provides real-time visibility, optimized freight management, and agile solutions that help customers adapt to changing market demands. With U.S. headquarters in Chicago, IL, TRAFFIX employs more than 840 logistics professionals across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, helping businesses improve supply chain performance through customized supply chain optimization. Key Takeaways: The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight In "The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight" Joe Lynch and Alex Fuller, Sr. Director of Revenue Management & Solutions at TRAFFIX, discuss the end of the freight recession and how rising rates, nearshoring, and market volatility are reshaping North American supply chains. The 2026 Market Inflection: Following a brutal, multi-year freight recession post-COVID, the North American freight market has officially turned. As of mid-2026, contract rates have climbed 10% year-over-year, while spot rates have exploded by 40%. The Tariff & Pull-Ahead Wrench: Volatility in 2025 trade policies forced shippers to radically alter inventory strategies. Many pulled massive volumes ahead to beat tariffs, briefly spiking intermodal demand, before aggressively pivoting back to lean, just-in-time supply chains. Fuel Cracking the Budget Dam: Skyrocketing diesel rates in early 2026 acted as a major catalyst for rate hikes. Unlike previous years where carriers absorbed fuel spikes, tight capacity means these costs are hitting shippers directly, forcing corporate CFOs to expand logistics budgets. The Nearshoring Reality: Shorter, responsive supply chains are replacing long-distance sourcing. A massive wave of nearshoring to Mexico is underway, trading complex ocean freight for direct, highly automated cross-border trucking networks. Immediate Capacity Threats (Q2 2026): Roadside inspection events like DOT Week, combined with driver pullbacks over Memorial Day weekend, are actively squeezing summer capacity. Spot rates are projected to remain highly elevated for the next 9 to 12 months as a result of these seasonal disruptions. The Death of the Annual RFQ: High market volatility means annual freight bids are breaking down. Savvy shippers are shifting to agile 3-month and 6-month mini-bids, allowing 3PLs to price lanes accurately without adding heavy risk premiums to the rates. TRAFFIX Corporate Profile: Established in 1979, TRAFFIX is a premier North American 3PL operating across the US, Canada, and Mexico. As an asset-light partner, they leverage mid-market agility, cross-border expertise, and on-demand warehousing to protect shipper capacity in volatile cycles. Learn More About The TRAFFIX Report: The Strategic Forecast for North American Freight Alex Fuller | Linkedin TRAFFIX | Linkedin TRAFFIX | Facebook TRAFFIX | Instagram TRAFFIX | X TRAFFIX | YouTube TRAFFIX TRAFFIX Trends Q2 2026 TRAFFIX Bi-Weekly Market Update The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Why GenLogs is Critical for the Next Generation of Supply Chain with Danielle Spinelli 14.05.2026 56min

  In "Why GenLogs is Critical for the Next Generation of Supply Chain" Joe Lynch and Danielle Spinelli, Director of Partnerships at GenLogs, discuss how visual truck intelligence provides a physical "truth layer" to combat cargo theft and verify carrier capacity. About Danielle Spinelli  Danielle Spinelli is the Director of Partnerships at Genlogs with over a decade of experience in logistics, carrier vetting, and cargo theft prevention. She also hosts the Tell Me Everything podcast, sharing insights on freight fraud, logistics trends, and supply chain security. About GenLogs  GenLogs is the Truck Intelligence™ platform that uses AI across a nationwide network of roadside sensors, satellites, and proprietary datasets to track all U.S. commercial vehicle patterns and drive better business outcomes across trucking, logistics, insurance, real estate, finance, and government. Key Takeaways: Why GenLogs is Critical for the Next Generation of Supply Chain In "Why GenLogs is Critical for the Next Generation of Supply Chain" Joe Lynch and Danielle Spinelli, Director of Partnerships at GenLogs, discuss how visual truck intelligence provides a physical "truth layer" to combat cargo theft and verify carrier capacity. The Power of a "Physical Footprint": While the industry has long relied on a digital footprint (ELDs and self-reported data) for carrier vetting, GenLogs introduces a "truth layer" through a physical footprint. By capturing 15 million images daily, they provide visual proof of a carrier's actual activity versus what is reported on paper. Combatting "Chameleon Carriers": The interview highlights the danger of chameleon carriers—entities that frequently change MC numbers or swap magnetic placards to hide poor safety records or involvement in fraud. GenLogs' network can track a single truck as it operates under multiple identities, flagging suspicious behavior. * The "Ring Camera" for Highways: Danielle describes the GenLogs network as a "Ring for the highways." With specialized "Trident" cameras deployed across major U.S. interstates, the platform achieves a 98% carrier sighting rate, providing massive visibility into commercial vehicle patterns. Advanced Cargo Theft Recovery: Beyond just prevention, the platform is an active tool for recovery. By analyzing historical sightings and specific truck markings (like unique mud flaps or bumper damage), the team has helped recover over 5,000 trailers in just two years. Bridging the Law Enforcement Gap: Because local police often lack the jurisdiction or resources to track freight across state lines, GenLogs acts as a critical bridge. They collaborate directly with the FBI and FMCSA to provide the data necessary to prosecute large-scale criminal schemes rather than isolated incidents. Beyond Security: Lanes and Capacity: The data serves a dual purpose for brokers and shippers as "Shipper Intelligence." It allows users to see which carriers are actually running specific lanes—even those who don't post on load boards—helping brokers expand their business with existing shippers by identifying untapped capacity. The Future of Integration: The "next generation" of this tech lies in seamless integration. Danielle's focus is on connecting this visual data directly into TMS platforms, allowing brokers to see a photo of the truck assigned to their load as a final line of defense before the shipment picks up. Learn More About Why GenLogs is Critical for the Next Generation of Supply Chain Danielle Spinelli | Linkedin GenLogs | Linkedin GenLogs Tell Me Everything Podcast Tell Me Everything Podcast | YouTube Unpacking Cargo Theft: Trends and Solutions with Danielle Spinelli The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Scaling with Intent: Removing the Constraints to Growth with Holly LaBoda 12.05.2026 54min

  In "Scaling with Intent: Removing the Constraints to Growth" Joe Lynch and Holly LaBoda, Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Formula L, discuss how logistics leaders can bridge the gap between high-level strategy and field execution by building a sustainable, system-led sales infrastructure. About Holly LaBoda Holly LaBoda is the Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Formula L, a sales operating system built for logistics, supply chain, distribution, and complex B2B service organizations. She has spent 18 years working inside these industries — including a decade at C.H. Robinson leading enterprise sales system design and go-to-market strategy — before building Formula L from the patterns she saw break organizations of every size. Holly holds an M.S. in Performance Improvement and certifications in change management and strategy — which means she doesn't just teach what worked once; she builds the system that makes it work consistently. She has worked alongside hundreds of sales leaders and thousands of sellers across logistics, freight, and distribution. Holly serves on the TMSA Board of Directors and is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. About Formula L Formula L is a sales operating system built for logistics, supply chain, distribution, and professional services organizations that have outgrown how they operate. Most growth leaders hit a ceiling that isn't about strategy — it's about the system underneath it. Formula L builds the infrastructure that closes the gap between the strategy leadership decides and what actually shows up in the field: a proprietary diagnostic and competency model, the LIFT Method development process, and a full partnership model that delivers the operating system alongside the team. The result is sales growth that doesn't depend on heroics — just a system built to handle it. Formula L works primarily with founder-led and PE-backed organizations in logistics and complex B2B services. Key Takeaways: Scaling with Intent: Removing the Constraints to Growth In "Scaling with Intent: Removing the Constraints to Growth" Joe Lynch and Holly LaBoda, Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Formula L, discuss how logistics leaders can bridge the gap between high-level strategy and field execution by building a sustainable, system-led sales infrastructure. Move Beyond "Heroics-Based" Sales: Many logistics companies rely on a few "hero" sellers or the founder's personal book of business. Holly emphasizes that sustainable scaling requires a system-led growth model where results are driven by a repeatable infrastructure rather than individual talent alone. Identify the "Growth Leap" Constraints: Organizations often hit a ceiling when their current processes can no longer support their size. Common constraints include capacity (the leader becoming a bottleneck) and coordination (complex solutions requiring too much internal sign-off), both of which must be diagnosed to restart growth. Close the Strategy-to-Execution Gap: A major growth killer is the disconnect between leadership's strategy and the field's execution. Formula L focuses on operationalizing strategy into daily sales behaviors so that the vision actually shows up in the field. Avoid the "Feel-Good" Training Trap: Sales training is often a "feel-good intervention" that fails because the underlying system is broken. Before implementing training, leaders must ensure the sales process, compensation, and ideal customer profiles (ICP) are aligned, or the training won't stick. Focus on Business Trigger Events over Raw Intent: While "intent data" (tracking website visits) is popular, the real value lies in understanding the trigger event—what changed in the prospect's business that made them look for a solution? This context allows for a more strategic, less "stalker-like" sales approach. The Importance of Leadership Alignment: Growth requires that all leaders are "rowing in the same direction." This often means making hard choices about role clarity, such as ensuring a sales leader isn't also burdened with customer support or operations, which creates a "split-focus" failure. Practice through Behavioral Coaching: High-level growth requires behavioral change, not just knowledge. Effective development involves learning labs and AI-driven practice to allow sellers to get "reps" in a low-stakes environment, similar to how elite athletes or military personnel train for high-pressure situations. Learn More About Scaling with Intent: Removing the Constraints to Growth Holly LaBoda | Linkedin Formula L | Linkedin Formula L The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
• Reducing TCO Through Renewable Natural Gas with Scott Brinner 07.05.2026 52min

  In "Reducing TCO Through Renewable Natural Gas" Joe Lynch and Scott Brinner, Vice President of RNG Solutions at Nopetro Energy, discuss how fleets can cut emissions while boosting their bottom line. Efficiency meets sustainability. About Scott Brinner Scott Brinner serves as the executive Vice President of RNG Solutions at Nopetro Energy, where he is responsible for developing and executing the division's strategy, business development and expansion. His prior experiences include working as a CPA with Ernst & Young, executive vice president, Corporate Development & Strategic Accounts, at OmniTRAX, and as an investment banker with Wells Fargo and Raymond James, where he advised companies in transportation/logistics and waste/environmental services. Scott has an MBA from the University of Chicago and received both a BS, in Accounting and Finance, as well as a Master's in Accountancy, from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.  About Nopetro Energy Founded in 2008, Nopetro Energy is a vertically integrated energy leader focused on the production and distribution of renewable natural gas (RNG) for heavy duty transportation and industrial consumption. The company provides end-to-end energy and transportation management solutions, helping government agencies and companies strengthen fuel independence and create lasting economic value. Nopetro designs, builds, finances and operates both renewable natural gas production plants and fueling stations, allowing fleets to transition to this substantially less expensive, cleaner and domestically produced alternative to diesel. Visit www.nopetroenergy.com to discover how Nopetro is leading the way to a more energy-independent and financially predictable future. Key Takeaways: Reducing TCO Through Renewable Natural Gas In "Reducing TCO Through Renewable Natural Gas" Joe Lynch and Scott Brinner, Vice President of RNG Solutions at Nopetro Energy, discuss how fleets can cut emissions while boosting their bottom line. Efficiency meets sustainability. RNG as a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Driver: Unlike many "green" technologies that require a financial sacrifice, transitioning to Renewable Natural Gas can actually lower the total cost of ownership. While the trucks may have a higher upfront cost (roughly $70k–$90k more), the significantly lower and more stable fuel prices can lead to a payback period of just 2 to 3 years. The "Closed Ecosystem" of RNG: RNG is a vertically integrated solution that captures organic waste from landfills, dairy farms, and wastewater treatment plants. By cleaning these molecules and putting them into the pipeline, Nopetro turns a potential environmental pollutant into a high-performance fuel that can achieve zero or even negative carbon emissions. The Game-Changing Cummins X15N Engine: Historically, the trucking industry lacked an engine with the power and torque required for heavy-duty, 80,000+ lb loads. The new 15-liter natural gas engine from Cummins is a "workhorse" that matches diesel performance, range, and horsepower, removing the primary technical barrier for over-the-road fleets. Fuel Price Stability vs. Diesel Volatility: Because RNG is domestic and tied to stable natural gas indices rather than global oil markets, it protects fleets from "spikes" caused by international conflict. This allows for predictable budgeting and even the potential for long-term, fixed-price fuel contracts—unheard of in the diesel world. Proven Success in Adjacent Sectors: While OTR trucking is in the early stages of adoption, the waste management and transit industries have already proven the model. Nearly 50% of waste refuse trucks and 40% of transit buses in the U.S. now run on natural gas because it is more economical and easier to maintain. Infrastructure and "Behind the Fence" Solutions: Fleet owners don't have to wait for a public station on every corner. Nopetro specializes in building dedicated fueling stations directly at or near truck terminals. This "hub and spoke" approach ensures that dedicated routes have reliable, high-pressure fueling exactly where they need it. Sustainability as a Competitive Edge: Large shippers (the Scope 1 and Scope 3 emission-focused companies) are increasingly looking for "greener" partners. Trucking companies using RNG can offer a cleaner solution at the same or lower price than diesel, often securing longer-term contracts (5–7 years) by providing the carbon-neutral results that customers demand. Learn More About Reducing TCO Through Renewable Natural Gas Scott Brinner | Linkedin Nopetro Energy | Linkedin Nopetro Energy Nopetro Projects Nopetro Info Email The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube