Latest Episodes

Cutting-edge tracking tech
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As global supply chains grow more complex, the need for precise tracking and quality control is critical. Traditional tracking systems often fall short, merely pinpointing the location without monitoring essential conditions like temperature or humidity. But for industries moving sensitive items—like high-value medicines and perishable foods—real-time insights into the condition of goods are essential…

cloud-based solutions
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The logistics industry faces constant challenges as the need for efficient, cloud-based solutions intensifies. Many warehouses continue to operate manually; up to 53% of employee time is spent on non-value-adding tasks like walking and searching for items, according to industry studies. This manual approach not only hampers efficiency but leads to significant delays, errors,…

alvys
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The logistics industry is at a pivotal moment. But the trucking sector, a vital part in supply chains, is notoriously behind when it comes to technological advancements, with many companies still relying on outdated systems like Google Sheets to manage their fleets. This gap in technological adoption is costing businesses in terms of efficiency…

supply chain cost management
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After four years of supply chain disruptions triggered by COVID-19, natural disasters and geopolitical tensions, businesses are finally returning their focus to supply chain cost management. Sourcifi, a company specializing in cost savings, is at the forefront of this shift. But how can companies leverage strategic relationships and cost-saving technologies to thrive in today’s…

supply chain industry
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The supply chain industry is becoming an increasingly vital field, especially after the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the industry continues to grow, new talent is key to meeting the evolving logistics, planning, and operations challenges. Recent trends, such as the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, are reshaping…

produce
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The supply chain and logistics world is rapidly evolving, especially within niche sectors like produce transportation. The cold chain market is projected to grow from $233.8 billion in 2023 to $340.3 billion by 2028, highlighting the increasing demand for temperature-sensitive goods and the need for efficient logistics solutions. Professionals in this field face unique…

ascm conference
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As global supply chains continue to evolve in response to new challenges, the need for innovation and adaptability has never been more critical. In Part 1 of this discussion, Abe Eshkenazi, CEO of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), joined Hammer Down host Mike Bush to preview the themes of the upcoming ASCM…

Abe Eshkenazi discusses the future Supply Chains
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The management of supply chains has become a crucial topic of discussion, especially in the wake of recent global disruptions. From the pandemic to geopolitical tensions, supply chains have faced a series of challenges as of late. This crisis has even forced companies to rethink their strategies and adapt to new realities. A 2020…

Morgan MacDermaid discussing transportation and logistics
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The transportation and logistics industry is undergoing significant transformation, driven by evolving market demands and technological advancements. As it becomes a routinely competitive landscape, companies are finding it more challenging now to attract and retain top talent. According to a report, around 64 percent of logistics companies are experiencing a shortage of qualified candidates….

Shipping industry
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The global shipping industry, a lifeline of international trade, has long been characterized by complexity and fragmentation. This disjointed structure, where goods pass through countless hands, was brought into sharp focus during the COVID-19 pandemic, exposing the fragile nature of global supply chains. This raises the question: How can the chaos in shipping be…

brokerage
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The logistics industry is at a crossroads as professionals increasingly shift from brokerage models to owning and operating trucking companies. This transition, while filled with opportunities, also brings a host of challenges, from managing safety and compliance to handling the complexities of running a fleet. With the trucking industry facing a truck driver shortage,…

Container handling systems
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In the ever-evolving world of logistics, innovation is the key to overcoming challenges and seizing new opportunities. The global supply chain was heavily impacted by the pandemic, revealing significant inefficiencies, especially in the movement of shipping containers. Thankfully, technologies like QuickLoadz’s automated container handling systems are streamlining these processes, reducing both time and costs….

delivery expectations
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Amazon Prime Day recently saw $14 billion in sales, underscoring the consumer demand for rapid delivery. This surge highlights the pressure on other businesses to match Amazon’s speed and efficiency. Retailers face a crucial challenge. They need to innovate to meet these delivery expectations or risk losing their market position. What solutions exist for…

modern supply chains
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Artificial intelligence rapidly transforms modern supply chains, with companies like Arvist leading the charge. In a recent episode of Hammer Down, hosted by Mike Bush, Aaron Hatfield, the Head of Sales at Arvist, sheds light on AI’s practical applications and benefits in enhancing supply chain operations. Is AI in the supply chain a double-edged…

presence
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The trucking industry, valued at over $940 billion annually, remains one of the most traditional and least technologically advanced sectors. Small trucking companies, which constitute 95.8% of the industry, often struggle to scale and compete due to outdated practices and limited resources. These companies need innovative solutions to modernize their operations and build a robust…

Dr. Mark Manera talks Trucking Industry
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With the trucking industry seeing many changes that prioritize efficiency and productivity, the health of truck drivers has increasingly peaked as a critical concern. With life expectancies for truck drivers averaging 16 years less than the general population, there is an urgent need to address health issues within the industry. Recent initiatives, like the…

clean trucking industry
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The clean trucking industry is undergoing rapid changes, driven by advancements in technology and regulatory pressures. With the EPA’s Phase 3 guidelines aiming for zero emissions by 2040, industry stakeholders face significant challenges and opportunities. Amidst this backdrop, clean trucking is at a critical juncture, facing a myriad of questions on how to adapt…

freight
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The freight industry is experiencing a wave of innovative approaches to tackle its longstanding challenges. With the market grappling with issues such as fluctuating rates and high turnover, unconventional solutions are becoming increasingly popular. Reed Loustalot, a prominent figure in this field, has introduced humor and creativity into freight management, gaining attention with his…

Logistics industry
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In today’s ever-evolving logistics industry, the relationship between freight brokers and trucking companies remains fraught with tension. This dynamic is crucial as it directly impacts the efficiency of goods movement across the country. Recent trends show a growing reliance on digital platforms, which, while enhancing technological efficiency, often undermine the essential human element of…

ACT Expo
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The logistics industry is experiencing a pivotal shift towards sustainable practices, and this transformation was on full display at the recent ACT Expo in Las Vegas. With over 12,000 attendees, including industry giants like Volvo and Kenworth, as well as innovative startups like Horizon Motors and InductEV, the event was a hub of discussion…

dredge logistics
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The latest episode of Hammer Down, hosted by Mike Bush, dives deep into the complexities of dredge logistics with Toni Careccio, the Chief Customer Officer at PortPro. This discussion couldn’t be more timely in a world where supply chain efficiency is paramount. With many dredge companies still relying on outdated methods such as paper…

Trucking solutions
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The trucking industry is at a pivotal moment, facing significant changes and challenges from regulatory shifts to technological innovations. As one of the backbones of the global economy, the importance of efficient and sustainable trucking solutions cannot be overstated. With the industry grappling with issues like driver shortages, regulatory compliance, and the implementation of…

Streamlining the returns process
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As ecommerce continues to dominate retail, the efficiency of handling returns becomes crucial for customer satisfaction and operational sustainability. The return rates for online purchases are significantly higher than those for brick-and-mortar stores, underscoring a major challenge for online retailers. In this environment, investing in technology to streamline the returns process is essential for…

ESG practices
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Amidst the vast expanse of the maritime industry, a new wave is cresting—the wave of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) imperatives. From reducing carbon footprints to fostering social equity, maritime entities are grappling with the complexities of sustainability like never before. As the global focus sharpens on ESG practices, the maritime sector finds itself…

zero-emission vehicles
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As Earth Day shines a spotlight on environmental stewardship, the conversation around sustainability has extended its roots deep into the veins of the global supply chain. With stringent regulations coming into effect in California, mandating the transition to zero-emission vehicles for port entry, the race to adapt has been catalyzed. This push towards sustainability,…

Demurrage and detention
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In an era where global supply chains face unprecedented challenges—from pandemic-induced disruptions to escalating international trade tensions—the nuances of logistics operations, such as demurrage and detention fees, are gaining significant attention. These fees are intended to streamline port operations but often result in substantial financial burdens for businesses, highlighting a critical area of the…

logistics sector
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Gone are the days when trade shows were merely physical marketplaces for businesses to showcase their products and services. Today, they are evolving into dynamic platforms where innovation, technology, and networking converge to shape the future of industries. This shift is nowhere more evident than in the logistics sector, which is at the forefront…

maritime supply chain
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The recent incident involving the vessel DALI crashing into a bridge in Baltimore has thrust maritime supply chain issues into the spotlight. As global trade continues to intensify, the capacity and safety of maritime infrastructure are under scrutiny. This accident not only highlights the immediate logistical nightmares created by such disruptions but also raises…

truck drivers
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The logistics and supply chain sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the need for more efficient communication channels between companies and frontline workers, particularly truck drivers. This shift is not just about adopting new technologies; it’s about finding practical solutions that cater to the real-world usage habits of these critical players What…

logistics
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The world of logistics and supply chain management, often hidden in plain sight, is a colossal industry that intricately weaves through the fabric of our daily lives. Despite its monumental impact on the global economy, it quietly powers forward, unseen and uncelebrated. As we stand at the cusp of a technological renaissance, the logistics…

Transportation safety and telematics
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In an era where technology is rapidly transforming industries, the transportation and logistics sector stands at a pivotal point. With advancements in connectivity, electrification, and autonomous technology, companies are redefining how goods and people move. One such company at the forefront of this revolution is Clarience Technologies, which has evolved from its roots in…

education to entrepreneurship
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The trucking industry faces both challenges and opportunities. Still, the story of transitioning from education to entrepreneurship within this sector highlights a unique journey of growth and innovation. Hammer Down, hosted by Mike Bush, examines this fascinating intersection, featuring Trey Griggs, the Founder & CEO of BETA Consulting Group. This episode explores Griggs’ remarkable…

Eric Johnson talks freight and logistics
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Within the dynamic realm of freight and logistics, staying ahead of the curve is imperative. As industry players grapple with technological advancements, insights from seasoned experts like Eric Johnson, Director at S&P Global, shed light on the evolving landscape. For a recent episode of “Hammer Down,” host Mike Bush welcomed Johnson, who shared his…

fleet reliability
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Navigating the complexities of fleet reliability and safety in the trucking industry poses a significant challenge, especially given that small fleets operate 90% of trucks on the road. This critical issue is at the heart of a recent episode of Hammer Down, hosted by Mike Bush, featuring an innovative approach by Carrier Assure to…

innovation and entrepreneurship
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Navigating the future of the supply chain isn’t tricky to see if one sets their navigational positions on innovation and entrepreneurship to lead the way. On Hammer Down, host Mike Bush had the privilege of going inside the dynamic supply chain management and innovation world with Liz Ward, the Head of America Operations at…

fragmentation challenges
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Logistics stands at a pivotal crossroads, grappling with the challenges of fragmentation and the urgent need for technological integration. In an industry where efficient movement of goods underpins global economies, innovative trucking and supply chain management solutions are not just desirable – they are essential. This episode of Hammer Down, hosted by Mike Bush,…

logistics and supply chain
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Amidst a rapidly evolving logistics and supply chain industry, technological advancements and shifts in workforce dynamics are creating new challenges and opportunities. In this episode of Hammer Down with Mike Bush, he dives into the transformative world of supply chain management, featuring Mia Mazal, the Business Development and Partnership Manager at Sworkz. Mia discusses…

logistics and technology
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How can industry professionals and newcomers alike navigate the rapidly changing and transforming convergence of logistics and technology to drive innovation and efficiency in supply chains? The latest episode of Hammer Down, hosted by Mike Bush, features Bart De Muynck, the Strategic Advisor for Better Supply Chains. Bush unpacks De Muynck’s extensive experience in…

Ben Gordon on Humanitarian Efforts and business
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The world is increasingly interconnected yet facing complex global challenges, leading one to wonder how business leaders can leverage their expertise and networks for humanitarian efforts. Enter Ben Gordon, the CEO and Managing Partner of Cambridge Capital, who has become a pivotal figure in marrying business acumen with global humanitarian efforts and aid.  On…

Justin Martin on his freight industry career
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Can having a diverse career path, particularly in the supply chain and freight industry, lead to unexpected opportunities and insights?  A new segment of “Hammer Down,” says, yes. The subject was explored with host Mike Bush interviewing Justin Martin, the Social Media Content Creator for the FreightWaves team, and a former driver. Martin’s journey…