In this episode, Blythe and Jennifer Karpus-Romain, the Executive Director of the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), discuss the organization's 100-year history, digital transformation, and the upcoming ELEVATE 2024 conference in New Orleans from June 9-11, 2024. Jennifer also shares insights into TMSA's marketing strategies, award programs, and educational content designed to help logistics professionals enhance their marketing and sales skills.  LINKS: Jennifer's...

In this episode, Mike Mikulik, VP of Marketing and Sales at SPI Logistics, offers an insider's perspective on the freight agent model. He and Blythe discuss topics like commission structures, technology tools, carrier vetting, and effective sales strategies. Whether you're considering becoming a freight agent or want to improve your current operations, this episode provides the information needed to navigate and thrive in the competitive logistics industry. LINKS: Mike's LinkedInEmail...

Join Grace Sharkey and Blythe for the latest installment of Freight Friends, where they unpack the current state of the freight market and its economic drivers. Discover cutting-edge business ideas like using drones to streamline warehouse inventory, leveraging digital twin technology for optimizing manufacturing, and implementing AI-driven phone systems for smoother logistics operations. Plus, don't miss their exploration of the logistics behind the diverse flavors in the booming snack...

In this episode, Justin Cramer, co-founder of ProShip, and Blythe discuss what it's like managing thousands of parcel shipments daily. He explains his transition from the Navy to logistics software, handling peak seasons across industries, and integrating carrier compliance updates. The episode also explores separating systems of record, the onboarding process for enterprise shippers, and how AI could enhance predictive transit time estimates based on weather, events, and other...

In this episode, Blythe speaks with Pablo Palafox, CEO of Happyrobot, about using AI-powered voice assistants to automate repetitive tasks in freight operations. They discuss Pablo's background in industrial engineering and computer science, and how Happy Robot's technology can free up logistics teams to focus on higher-value work, improving efficiency and customer service. LINKS: Pablo's LinkedInHappyrobot's websiteEmail Happyrobot WATCH THE FULL...

In this episode of Everything is Logistics, Blythe speaks with Jack Zwart, the shipping manager at GatorBar, a manufacturer of composite rebar in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. He shares information on the history and importance of the Rust Belt, the role of the Great Lakes in raw material shipping, and the value of building personal relationships with carriers. Jack also explains how he stumbled into his manufacturing role, the unique transportation challenges faced by rural Midwest shippers,...

Grace Sharkey and Blythe are back with another episode of Freight Friends! This time the duo addresses the evolving retail landscape, including Shein's supply chain services and Amazon's "Just Walk Out" technology halt. They also discuss the Baltimore bridge collapse and the rise of online misinformation, covering a range of timely logistics and supply chain topics. LINKS: Grace's Linktree FightingForTruckers.comHow to reverse image searchFormula1 chief appalled to find his team manages 20k...

In this episode, Blythe speaks with Greenscreens CEO and Chief Product Officer Dawn Salvucci-Favier about her transition from administrative assistant to freight tech innovator. Dawn discusses the evolution of freight brokerages, TMS systems, and the power of predictive pricing using AI and machine learning. She also shares insights into the changing freight landscape and strategies driving successful freight tech companies. LINKS:  Dawn's Email: [email protected] Dawn's...

In this episode, we're going to examine the maritime sector's impact on global trade after the Baltimore Bridge collapse.  In this roundup, we're featuring conversations with a TikTok-famous merchant mariner Gabby Salazar, who defies industry norms; Chris Cook, who uses data to track grain shipments through Ukraine; maritime attorney Lauren Beagan, explaining the complexities of maritime law; and Nick Chubb, showcasing how technology streamlines ancient shipping practices. Whether you're...

In this episode, Blythe and Sean McGillicuddy, Chief Revenue Officer at Tai Software, explore how inefficient processes can hold back freight brokerages. Sean shares valuable advice on optimizing operations, leveraging data and analytics, and developing a strong brand identity to attract and retain customers. He also discusses auditing processes, utilizing TMS analytics, balancing marketing/sales efforts, implementing AI/automation, and understanding modern buyers' needs - all aimed at...

In this episode, Blythe discusses the world of AI in freight with Garrett Allen, the co-founder of LoadPartner. Garrett discusses the current state of AI and how businesses can prepare for AI adoption. He also explains how AI can enhance logistics operations, addresses concerns about job displacement, and discusses the future of AI across the industry. LINKS: Podcast: Will LoadPartner AI Replace Trucking Industry Check Calls? w/ Garrett AllenGarrett on XGarrett's LinkedInLoardPartner...

In this episode, Blythe speaks with Jake Battles, VP of Business Development and Sales at REPOWR, about how his company has built a digital marketplace for renting trailers and equipment. Jake explains the challenges of trailer utilization, REPOWR's innovative solution, and how it benefits carriers and shippers alike. He also highlights pioneering approaches that increase supply chain flexibility and efficiency through intelligent trailer-sharing. LINKS:  Jake's LinkedInREPOWR LinkedInREPOWR...

In this episode, Blythe speaks with Marina Mayer, the Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, about her journey in the logistics industry. Marina discusses the importance of promoting women in supply chain, the challenges of editorial planning, and her advice for independent creators. She also provides insights into her favorite tools, books, and logistics facts, and provides valuable perspectives for those passionate about supply chain, content creation,...

This episode features a discussion between Blythe and Holly LaBoda from "Logistics Luminaries Live!" focusing on leveling up freight sales strategy. Topics include bridging the gap between marketing and sales, leveraging content creation for customer engagement, the power of storytelling, and using AI tools to enhance sales processes. This episode provides valuable takeaways for logistics professionals seeking to improve their sales approach, align marketing efforts, and effectively connect...

This episode highlights a panel discussion moderated by Blythe, from Manifest: The Future of Supply Chain & Logistics, focusing on the topic of "Multimodal Shipping & International Growth: How is True Visibility Achieved?" Panelists included:  Charlie Cunnion, VP, Supply Chain & Customer Service, CMPC Forest Productions NAJim McCullen, CIO, Century Supply Chain SolutionsAndrew Petrisin, Supply Chain Advisor, U.S. Department of Transportation Peter Weis, CIO, SVP Supply Chain, ITS...

In this episode, Blythe and Kristy Killingbeck, VP of Supply Chain Operations at Ryder, discuss evolving shipper expectations, the push for automation like AGVs, navigating the labor landscape across the U.S., and her perspective on mentorship for women in supply chain leadership roles. Kristy also describes what it's like to manage 40 facilities and a $1 billion freight book for major CPG brands. LINKS: Ryder's WebsiteKristy's LinkedIn WATCH THE FULL EPISODE...

In this episode, Blythe and Ryan Schreiber, the Chief Growth Officer at Metafora, discuss AI readiness, integrating data sources, developing a strong data strategy, and identifying specific business use cases. Drawing from his diverse background spanning freight brokerage to tech startups, Ryan also offers practical advice for companies looking to successfully implement AI and extract meaningful insights from their data. LINKS: Ryan's LinkedInMetafora's website WATCH FULL EPISODE...

Grace Sharkey and Blythe Brumleve are back with another episode of Freight Friends! This time the duo discusses ISO Technologies releasing service awards for carriers, advice for freight brokerages, automating manufacturing, and the supply chain of makeup. LINKS: Grace’s LinktreeSisters of the Road: Inside a cross-country tour spotlighting 40 truckers during Women’s History MonthLive From Northwest Arkansas: A Conversation with Shelley SimpsonHBO's Lovecraft Country Contains a Crucial...

In this episode, Blythe and Nate Robert, founder of logistics startup Baton, discuss how his company was acquired by Ryder to build out their new Silicon Valley-based technology lab. The goal of the 40-person lab consisting of engineers, designers, and product managers is to solve pain points identified through engagement with Ryder operators. This includes tackling the driver efficiency issue of only 6.5 productive hours out of an 11-hour driving day. LINKS: Ryder's WebsitePress Release:...

Grace Sharkey is back for a special live edition of Freight Friends recorded during Manifest: The Future of Supply Chain and Logistics in Las Vegas. Discussed on the show are the latest visibility technology and the problems that still need to be solved to achieve true end-to-end solutions, along with some of our favorite booths and trade show marketing on the 500-square-foot expo floor.  Also, shout out to Zehl Logistics for hosting us at their podcast booth, which was a genius way of...

In this episode, Blythe explains how to organize a website redesign project into phases based on priority, starting with an MVP launch before adding other features. Listeners are presented with tips for gathering the necessary "ingredients" ahead of time - such as detailed page outlines, text, images, bios, etc. - to make development smoother. Other audience takeaways include strategies for getting stakeholder buy-in early, while also limiting feedback rounds later to avoid getting derailed...

In this episode, Blythe discusses fighting fraud and the value of great customer service with Meghann Erhart, EVP at Relay Payments. She emphasizes customer service rooted in empathy, honed through over 15 years in the industry and firsthand experiences with drivers. Meghann also stresses the importance of kindness and fostering strong relationships within the freight community. LINKS: Relay Payments' WebsiteMeghann's LinkedIn WATCH THE FULL EPISODE...

In this episode, Blythe discusses the art of freight sales with 15-year industry veteran and former MoLo cofounder, Stephan Mathis. He shares tips on building trust and long-term partnerships, overcoming adversity to strengthen relationships, leveraging storytelling and reviews to stand out, and developing a personal brand on LinkedIn, as well as providing more invaluable advice for new and experienced brokers alike.  Overall, this episode serves as a masterclass on setting a brokerage up for...

In this episode, Blythe interviews Anita Bassi, Vice President of People and Operations at  SPI Logistics. They discuss her career journey in the freight industry, the day-to-day challenges freight agents face, and the unique way SPI supports its agents through technology assistance and proactive fraud prevention to reduce turnover and cultivate enduring partnerships. Anita also emphasizes the importance of networking and continual career development for freight agents to stay competitive, as...