REPOST: Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail with Martin Lew
Martin Lew and Joe Lynch discuss beyond the tracks: the next frontier of American rail. Martin is CEO at Commtrex, a tech-enabled rail logistics provider with a team of experienced rail professionals, an extensive network of partners, and a best-in-class technology platform that simplifies the movement of freight and creates a competitive advantage. About Martin Lew Martin Lew is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Commtrex, the largest tech-enabled logistics platform in North America (US, Canada, and Mexico) for shippers to directly connect with railroads, transloaders, storage facilities, lessors, rail service providers, warehouses, and industry data. Under Lew’s leadership, Commtrex has been named to the Freightwaves FreightTech 100 and has established partnerships with all seven class 1 railroads. Prior to Commtrex, Mr. Lew was the Head of Global Sales and Origination for Mabanaft Coal Trading, Vice President and Head of Origination for J.P.Morgan’s Coal and Environmental Markets Group, Associate for the North American Coal and Emissions Trading Desk at Bear Stearns, and CEO of Equate Systems. Mr. Lew holds a Juris Doctorate from Boston College Law School, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree with majors in Communications and Political Science from the University of Southern California. About Commtrex Commtrex simplifies the movement of freight by rail with a tech-enabled platform that connects a network of reputable railroads, transloaders, lessors, and other rail service providers across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Commtrex’s data-driven approach provides the rail and transload industry with visibility and connectivity that significantly accelerates the amount of time it takes for shippers to procure the services needed to manage their freight by rail. With a community of 4,000+ active members, including over 1,900 shippers, and partnerships with all six Class I Railroads, Commtrex stands at the forefront of the industry. Discover more at www.commtrex.com. Key Takeaways: Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail Rail freight industry is exploring innovations like longer trains, digitization, cleaner energy, and inland terminals to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Rail transportation is suitable for high-volume freight over long distances, typically 500-600 miles or more, with a minimum volume equivalent to four to eight truckloads. Railroads move freight in two primary components: intermodal (containers on flatcars) and carload/merchandise commodities. Rail transportation enables efficient, low-carbon freight movement, reducing emissions by 75% compared to trucking. Trucking goods by rail instead of road has sustainability advantages and helps address the shortage of long-haul truck drivers. Commtrex is a platform connecting rail shippers with service providers across the US, Canada, and Mexico, providing visibility and facilitating communication. Short-line railroads transport freight from Class 1 railroads to the final destination, often using transloading facilities for last-mile delivery. The freight visibility platform Commtrex assists shippers in locating facilities and services required for rail transportation. Rail freight provides cost savings, sustainability benefits, and supply chain diversification/flexibility for shippers moving commodities or bulk goods. Commtrex connect shippers, logistics providers, railroads, facilitating rail freight growth to support nearshoring and environmental goals. Timestamps (00:00:02) Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail (00:00:35) Commtrex Platform (00:02:10) Rail Fit and Economics (00:03:07) Martin's Background (00:12:28) Rail Freight Movement (00:18:00) Houston Rail Hub (00:21:50) Freight Movement by Rail (00:24:40) Commtrex Marketplace (00:30:32) Visibility for Shippers (00:33:18) Short Line Railroads (00:34:36) Commtrex Search Visibility (00:40:45) Educating Freight Brokers (00:46:00) Rail as an Option (00:50:17) Podcast Promotion Learn More About Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail Martin Lew | Linkedin Commtrex | Linkedin Commtrex Everything in Logistics Let's Talk Supply Chain Freightwaves (People Speaking Rail) 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
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REPOST: Avoiding Logistics FUD with Steve Elwell
Steve Elwell and Joe Lynch discuss avoiding logistics FUD. Steve is the Founder and Managing Director of iDev Partners, a boutique leadership, business strategy and turnaround consulting firm. Summary: Avoiding Logistics FUD In this episode, Joe Lynch and guest Steve Elwell tackle the pervasive issue of Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt (FUD) and its impact on various aspects of business, particularly in logistics. Joe and Steve provide valuable insights into overcoming FUD by establishing trust and eliminating disruptive elements within business relationships, and leadership. The conversations delve into strategies for fostering growth, efficiency, and effective sales processes by promoting consistent, reliable behavior and building trustworthy partnerships. They discuss the negative consequences of transactional relationships and emphasize the rewards of creating harmonious environments in team settings, especially against the backdrop of current industrial challenges and transformative periods. With a focus on personal conduct, team bonding, and maintaining customer relationships, this episode serves as a crucial guide for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of fear, uncertainty, and doubt in the professional landscape. #OvercomingFUD #LogisticsLeadership #BuildingTrustInBusiness About Steve Elwell Steve is the Founder and since 2010 Managing Director of iDev Partners a boutique leadership, business strategy and turnaround consulting firm located in Farmington Hills, MI. In this role he has helps leaders and organizations realize their potential and mission. Steve has lead multiple technology, manufacturing, and start-up businesses as CEO, COO, and President. His consulting clients include large publicly traded corporations and family businesses in industries from logistics to aerospace. Prior to strategy and turnaround, Steve ran an IT, and automation businesses and owned a retained executive search firm. He earned an MBA from Wayne State University in Detroit, and a BA in Economics and Management from Albion College, in Albion, MI. Steve, his wife Kris, and their two children live in Farmington Hill, MI. About iDev iDev serves leaders and businesses in their transition from good to great. We develop clarity and translate that clarity into action and durable sustainable gains. Our approach brings together vision, talent, technology, around realistic solutions, and deliberate high-energy execution. iDev has been successful in diverse situations including turnaround and transformation, crisis management, and strategic growth. iDev leaders have prior consulting experience as well as tenure as C-suite function heads and CEOs. Key Takeaways: Avoiding Logistics FUD Understanding the impact of fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) in logistics and business. Strategies for enhancing business growth, efficiency, and performance by overcoming FUD. The importance of trust, rapport, and leadership in personal relationships. Adapting to industry shifts and challenges by fostering agility and strong partnerships. The risks of transactional relationships and the benefits of transparent, mutually beneficial collaborations. How to counteract the negative effects of FUD by cultivating harmony and effective team dynamics. Timestamps (00:00:02) Avoiding Logistics FUD (00:00:13) Reflecting on FUD in Relationships (00:02:08) Optimizing Business Performance (00:02:57) Impact of Fear and Uncertainty (00:07:52) Navigating Post-COVID Logistics Challenges (00:09:58) Combatting FUD in Sales (00:12:34) The Impact of Sales Conduct (00:18:14) Managing FUD in Business Relationships (00:22:44) Navigating Business Relationships (00:29:22) Transactional Pitfalls in Shipping (00:30:24) Fostering Harmony Over FUD (00:36:02) Building Strong Business Relationships (00:36:27) Leadership and Building Trust (00:41:05) Overcoming FUD in Logistics (00:42:46) Seek Harmony, Avoid Disruption (00:43:26) Identifying Business Pain Points (00:44:30) Wrapping Up Logistics Podcast Learn More About Avoiding Logistics FUD Steve Elwell | Linkedin iDev | Linkedin Supply Chain Disruptions Are Here to Stay with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics 3 Emerging Supply Chain Trends with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Make Heroes, Make Money with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Avoiding Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt in Sales with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics The Number One Reason Why People Buy with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics The Only 3 Ways to Improve Your Sales with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Understanding the Buying Process with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Entering New Logistics Markets with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of Logistics Freight Recession: Opportunity or Threat with Steve Elwell | The Logistics of 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
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Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges with Michael Needham
In “Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges”, Joe Lynch and Michael Needham, a Principal at Efficio, discuss how to build resilient supply chains using data-driven strategies and a hands-on consulting approach to achieve both cost savings and operational resilience in the complex pharma and healthcare sectors. About Michael Needham Michael Needham is a Principal Consultant at Efficio, the leading global consultancy, dedicated to helping clients achieve their supply chain and procurement goals. Michaël has 20+ years of experience working across the pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical device development, healthcare services and CPG sectors. His expertise lies in rapid value creation and turnaround for organizations in financial difficulty. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Masters in Purchasing & Supply Chain Management and a PhD based on the implementation of lean six sigma process improvement programs across geographic locations. About Efficio For over two decades, Efficio has been a leading independent consultancy, dedicated to helping clients achieve their supply chain and procurement goals. They combine the deep expertise of their consultants with a vast amount of data and insights gained from years of specialized work. Efficio stands out by not just advising, but by embedding with clients to truly understand their unique challenges and deliver tangible, sustained results. Their approach is powered by the Connected Platform and eFlow digital procurement platforms, which leverage global knowledge for smarter, data-driven decisions. Whether it's cost reduction, working capital management, or addressing supply chain complexities, Efficio's singular focus on procurement and supply chain, data-driven technology, and hands-on delivery set them apart. They offer flexible support models, from rapid assessments to long-term partnerships, ensuring measurable and lasting value Key Takeaways: Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges In “Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges”, Joe Lynch and Michael Needham, a Principal Consultant at Efficio, the leading global consultancy, dedicated to helping clients achieve their supply chain and procurement goals, the following topics were discussed: Optimizing Private Equity Portfolios: Efficio assists private equity clients by optimizing the supply chains of multiple acquired companies within a sector, helping them achieve greater efficiency and economies of scale through consolidation. Collaborative, On-the-Ground Support Works: Efficio’s model of “embedding” with clients shows that deep, hands-on collaboration leads to more effective and lasting solutions. Specialization Delivers Results: Efficio’s focus on procurement and supply chain proves that specialized expertise is critical for solving complex challenges in sectors like pharma and healthcare. Efficio's Role in Strategic Supply Chain Management: The interview underscored Efficio's expertise in navigating complex supply chain challenges, from geopolitical influences and market consolidation to sustainability initiatives, offering strategic guidance to their diverse client base. Supply Chain Resilience in Pharma & Healthcare: The Efficio consultant highlighted the varying supply chain dynamics for patented versus generic drugs. Generic medications, predominantly manufactured in China and India, face potential repositioning due to US tariffs, while patented drugs, made in Ireland, Switzerland, and the USA, have different supply chain considerations. Sustainability as a Key Driver: Sustainability remains a significant concern, particularly for large companies with extensive supply chains, suggesting an ongoing focus on environmentally conscious practices within the industry. Learn More About Supply Chain Reset: Overcoming Pharma & Healthcare Supply Chain Challenges Michael Needham | LinkedIn Efficio | LinkedIn Efficio Transforming global procurement: Innovating digital solutions and partnership Two transformations, one competitive edge: Procurement in Physician Practice Management Re-designing procurement: A global healthcare manufacturer's post-acquisition journey 170+ million vaccines administered: The UK Vaccine Taskforce’s digital supply planning transformation Pharma and Healthcare: Avoid panic buying by approaching safety stocks wisely - | Efficio US How the Inflation Reduction Act is shaping pharma procurement strategies - | Efficio US 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
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REPOST: The Revenue Engine with Kara Smith Brown
Kara Brown and Joe Lynch discuss the revenue engine. Kara is the Founder and CRO of LeadCoverage, the premier B2B marketing and PR firm dedicated to helping logistics companies increase lead generation through targeted marketing strategies and media coverage. About Kara Brown A prominent thought leader in B2B go-to-market strategy, Kara Smith Brown is CEO of LeadCoverage, the pioneering consultancy transforming approaches to PR, demand generation and marketing across the supply chain, heavy industrial, and tech sectors. Her successful corporate career started at Echo Global Logistics where she played a key role in its ascent to a market leader and celebrated IPO in 2009. In 2017 Kara leveraged her prior corporate experience to launch LeadCoverage, a strategy consultancy addressing all elements of the B2B sales conversion cycle for supply chain companies. Today LeadCoverage is an Inc. 5000 company and continues to grow. Kara’s new book "The Revenue Engine" offers readers a guide to effective revenue-generating strategies. The book goes beyond theoretical concepts and serves as a playbook for crafting data-driven go-to-market strategies. These principles mirror the philosophy Kara has embodied and advocated throughout her career. Kara's achievements extend beyond her corporate success. She is an advocate for diverse emerging leaders. She has been named a “Top Women in Marketing” by PR Daily and her influence shapes future entrepreneurs through her many advisory roles as well as board membership in the Entrepreneur's Organization Atlanta chapter and LaunchPad2x. She is an Ironman triathlete and lives in Atlanta with her husband and two girls. About LeadCoverage LeadCoverage is the premier supply chain go-to-market consulting group, dedicated to driving revenue growth for their clients. Company specializes in crafting GTM strategies that are grounded in data-backed insights and sophisticated mathematical models. Their proven expertise transforms businesses into market leaders, ensuring they stay ahead of the competition and achieve sustained success. LeadCoverage’s headquarters is located in the beautiful Coda building in Midtown Atlanta, adjacent to the Georgia Tech campus. This particular corridor — "Supply Chain Square” — also includes cloud warehousing company Stord, supply chain intelligence company Verusen, as well as the Georgia Tech Supply Chain & Logistics Institute. For more information about LeadCoverage and its suite of supply chain, manufacturing, andlogistics-focused marketing, public relations, and analyst relations services, please visit LeadCoverage’s website. The Revenue Engine: Fueling a B2B High Octane Pipeline by Kara Smith Brown Unlock the secrets to B2B go-to-market success with Kara Smith Brown's transformative book, The Revenue Engine. This is your roadmap to building a powerful revenue engine: Share Good News: Build relationships and keep conversations alive with compelling stories and data insights. Track Interest: Identify opportunities and guide prospects through your pipeline effectively. Follow Up Consistently: Convert leads into loyal customers with proactive engagement. Packed with real-world case studies and actionable strategies, this playbook is essential for both seasoned professionals and newcomers. CEOs and leadership teams will gain insights on leveraging data and measuring success through pipeline volume, velocity, and value―empowering informed decisions. Say goodbye to random acts of marketing and embrace a structured approach that delivers measurable results and secures your place at the executive table. Elevate your marketing game and drive your business forward! Kara has written a book titled "The Revenue Engine: Fueling a B2B High Octane Pipeline." Pre-order Kara's book on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/geq5TDn To receive a free book, fill out this form and Kara will send you one in the mail: The Revenue Engine | Kara Smith Brown Key Takeaways: The Revenue Engine Kara Smith Brown and Joe Lynch discuss Kara's new book "The Revenue Engine: Fueling a B2B High Octane Pipeline" and some of the strategies outlined in the book including: Ideal customer profile Executive thought leadership Intent data tools Sales partnerships LeadCoverage is the premier logistics and supply chain go-to-market consulting group, dedicated to driving revenue growth for their clients. Below are the services and results LeadCoverage clients receive: Marketing Automation Streamlined Processes: Automate repetitive tasks to save time and reduce errors. Targeted Campaigns: Reach your ideal audience with personalized messages. Data-Driven Insights: Gain valuable insights into your marketing efforts. Revenue Operations Aligned Teams: Create a cohesive approach across sales, marketing, and customer service. Optimized Processes: Streamline your revenue generation process for maximum efficiency. Data-Driven Decision Making: Make informed decisions based on real-time data. Public Relations Measurable ROI: Track the tangible results of your PR efforts. Thought Leadership: Establish your brand as an industry expert. Media Relations: Secure high-quality media placements to increase visibility. Paid Media Ads Targeted Reach: Connect with your ideal customers on the platforms they use. Measurable Results: Track the performance of your campaigns and optimize for better outcomes. Brand Awareness: Increase your brand's visibility and reach a wider audience. Timestamps (00:00:02) The Revenue Engine (00:00:21) Introducing Kara Smith Brown (00:01:32) Ideal Customer Profile (00:02:18) Account-Based Marketing and Intent Data (00:05:50) Go-to-Market vs Marketing (00:10:49) The Revenue Engine Book (00:12:44) Kara Wagner's Background (00:16:28) Global Clients and ODW Logistics (00:19:21) Thought Leadership Strategy (00:25:43) HubSpot Diamond Shop (00:27:31) Writing "The Revenue Engine" Book (00:32:41) Book Release Date and Data-Driven Go-to-Market (00:36:47) Intent Data Tools (00:42:07) Partnership Strategy (00:45:38) Ideal Customer Profile Focus (00:48:46) Three Go-to-Market Strategies Recap (00:49:50) Measuring Success with Volume, Velocity, and Value (00:53:25) Intent Data in Supply Chain (00:59:00) Podcast Outro Learn More About The Revenue Engine Kara Brown | LinkedIn LeadCoverage | LinkedIn LeadCoverage Lead Gen for Logistics with Kara Brown | The Logistics of Logistics LeadCoverage Ranks on Inc. 5000 List for Third Consecutive 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
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Beyond LTL & Truckload: The Expedite All Approach to Smaller Truck Solutions with Mike Ernst
In “Beyond LTL & Truckload: The Expedite All Approach to Smaller Truck Solutions”, Joe Lynch and Mike Ernst, the President of Expedite All, discuss how specialized small truck solutions, spearheaded by networks like Expedite All, deliver efficient, on-demand transportation for time-critical shipments, leveraging cargo vans, box trucks, and straight trucks to bypass the limitations of traditional LTL and Truckload. About Mike Ernst Mike Ernst, President of Expedite All, brings over 25 years of experience in the logistics industry to the company. He has held leadership roles such as Vice President of Linehaul & Central Dispatch Operations at Yellow, Director of Network Operations at YRC Freight, and various operational and sales leadership positions with both YRC Freight and Roadway Express over the course of his well established transportation career. Known for his strategic leadership, Mike specializes in LTL, small truckload, and high-value / expedited / specialized freight. At Expedite All, he focuses on optimizing operations while ensuring safety and compliance. He leverages his expertise in market forecasting and innovation to drive logistics efficiency and growth About Expedite All Expedite All is a premier provider of on-demand, expedited freight services, delivering the quickest ground transportation solutions for time-critical shipments throughout the U.S. Our extensive, carefully vetted carrier network offers access to more than 9,000 cargo vans, box trucks, and straight trucks. By specializing in Small Truck Load (STL) services, we match each shipment precisely with the optimal vehicle to maximize speed, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. Our advanced digital platform provides real-time tracking, automated quotes, instant booking, and a 99.4% on-time performance rate. Expedite All consistently delivers reliability and speed, keeping your freight moving securely and efficiently. Key Takeaways: Beyond LTL & Truckload: The Expedite All Approach to Smaller Truck Solutions In “Beyond LTL & Truckload: The Expedite All Approach to Smaller Truck Solutions”, Joe Lynch and Mike Ernst, the President of Expedite All, discuss how specialized small truck solutions provide efficient, on-demand transportation for time-critical shipments. The Emergence of Small Truck Solutions (STS) as a Distinct Mode: Beyond traditional LTL and Truckload, the podcast highlights the growing necessity and strategic importance of "smaller truck solutions" (cargo vans, box trucks, straight trucks) as a unique and vital transportation category. Optimizing Shipments for Speed, Cost, and Sustainability: Utilizing smaller trucks like cargo vans, box trucks, and straight trucks offers significant advantages over LTL, including lower costs, faster transit times, increased sustainability, and reduced freight damage due to less handling and stacking. Meeting the Demands of Modern Supply Chains: The shift by retailers and ecommerce companies to carry less inventory and position it closer to customers for same-day and next-day delivery makes smaller truck solutions the ideal choice for efficient, agile inventory movement. Flexibility and Reliability Beyond LTL's Constraints: While LTL serves many needs, smaller truck solutions provide unparalleled flexibility, speed, and security for freight that requires less handling, direct delivery, and adaptable pickup/delivery schedules. This includes temperature-controlled goods, further supported by specialized networks like Reefer Van Network. Expedite All's Specialized Network for Critical Freight: Expedite All, as America's Largest Small Truck Network, specializes in rapid, on-demand ground transportation for time-sensitive and specialized freight, leveraging an extensive network of over 9,000 vetted cargo vans, box trucks, and straight trucks. Precision Matching for Optimal Efficiency: Expedite All's expertise lies in matching each shipment with the precise, optimal small truck vehicle, maximizing speed, flexibility, and cost-efficiency while maintaining a 99.4% on-time performance rate. Advanced Digital Solutions for Seamless Expedited Freight: Expedite All's advanced digital platform empowers shippers with real-time tracking, automated quotes, and instant booking, ensuring secure and efficient movement of critical freight. Reefer Van Network: Specialized Solutions for Temperature-Sensitive Shipments: For specialized temperature-controlled needs within the smaller truck solution space, Expedite All's sister company, Reefer Van Network (RVN), offers a robust network for refrigerated FTL and LTL transportation across North America, ensuring safe and efficient delivery of perishable goods. Learn More About Beyond LTL & Truckload: The Expedite All Approach to Smaller Truck Solutions Mike Ernst | Linkedin Expedite All | Linkedin Expedite All Expedite All | YouTube America's Largest Small Truck Network with Alex Winston 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
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