Smart Supply Chain Podcast

Technology First: A Silicon Valley Approach To Supply Chain

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:21:07 -0700

ALOM Chief Operating Officer Brandon Marugg discusses how Silicon Valley's culture of innovation has shaped ALOM's evolution from a startup founded in 1997 into a global technology-driven supply chain service provider. Drawing on his 25 years of experience with ALOM, Brandon recounts stories of supporting fast-growing technology innovators, developing early customer-facing supply chain technology, rapidly scaling operations and applying data, automation, and serialization to solve complex supply chain challenges. The conversation also explores how ALOM's Silicon Valley roots continue to influence its approach to regulated industry compliance, scalability and resilience, and why organizations that embrace technology-driven innovation will be best positioned for the future.

Solving The Supply Chain Crisis: How To Close The AI Skills Gap

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:52:19 -0700

In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of the Manufacturing Institute, unpacks a looming crisis: a widening skills gap accelerated by AI. As new technologies reshape operations on the shop floor, the challenge is not talent, it’s equipping today’s workforce with the right skills. Carolyn shares how AI is changing job requirements, what it means for manufacturing and supply chain performance, and how leaders can rethink hiring, training, and development, while tapping into proven programs and resources to build a future-ready workforce.

How To Avoid a Costly Onboarding Meltdown – A CEO Perspective

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:24:39 -0800

In this final episode of the Smart Supply Chain podcast onboarding series, the Garrison Sisters sit down with ALOM CEO Hannah Kain to explore why she believes onboarding is the defining stage of any 3PL partnership. Hannah shares why flawless launches require going far beyond the basics—digging into stakeholder needs across operations, finance, data integration, sustainability, reporting, and end-user expectations. Her insights reveal how disciplined planning, collaboration, and true listening build trust from day one and set every supply chain program up for long-term success.

How To Avoid a Costly Onboarding Meltdown - Episode 2

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:35:01 -0700

In part 2 of the 3 part Smart Supply Chain Podcast Onboarding series, ALOM experts unpack top considerations and warning signs to look for during a 3PL onboarding and new program launch. In this episode, your hosts, The Garrison Sisters talk to five ALOM experts representing Operations, Technology, Quality, Logistics, and Client Services to learn what topline advice and best practices they offer to reduce risk, accelerate go-live, and build long-term trust when onboarding a new program. One additional episode in this series will follow soon, featuring candid insights from ALOM CEO, Hannah Kain.

How To Avoid a Costly Onboarding Meltdown

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:03:42 -0700

ALOM experts unpack top considerations and warning signs to look for during a 3PL onboarding and new program launch. You’ll hear from ALOM Chief Commercial Officer Fiona Lowbridge, Chief Operating Officer Brandon Marugg, and Business Manager Taylor Brown as they discuss the importance of a collaborative, transparent onboarding process that helps reduce risk, accelerate go-live, and build long-term trust. Two additional episodes focused on onboarding will follow soon, featuring further insight from ALOM operations, client services, quality, technology, and executive team leaders.

Supply Chain Aftershocks: The Real Cost of Tariffs in 2025

Thu, 01 May 2025 07:51:19 -0700

Logistics analyst Cathy Roberson shares her latest thinking and analysis on how shifting trade policies, tariffs, industry consolidation, and last-mile innovation are reshaping global supply chains. Mid-episode, learn how ALOM is helping its customers mitigate tariff uncertainty and cost, and build resilience in a fast-changing logistics environment. As the industry stands at a crossroads, this conversation offers sharp insight for supply chain leaders to explore strategies on how to stay ahead.

Supply Chain Hiring Secrets: What Recruiters Really Look For

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:28:44 -0700

International supply chain executive recruiter and bestselling author of Source to Sold, Radu Palamariu, joins The Garrison Sisters to discuss what it takes to shape strong supply chain leadership. From essential leadership traits to career-advancing strategies, Radu shares insights to help supply chain professionals at all levels navigate challenges and excel in a rapidly evolving industry.

Data Chaos to Clarity: How AI is Transforming Supply Chain Ops

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:49:13 -0800

The Garrison Sisters talk to Peter Bolstorff, author of "Supply Chain Excellence: A Handbook for Dramatic Improvement on Using the SCOR Model" on best methods to transform supply chain performance by leveraging trustworthy AI and research-driven insights to build resilient, efficient, and future-ready supply chains that drive sustainable business success. Features special segment with ALOM CEO Hannah Kain discussing tariff impacts and strategies.

Defending The New Trade Battlefield: Tariffs, AI, & Cyberattacks

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 19:51:06 -0800

Ben Hazen, PhD revisits the global trade predictions he and ALOM CEO Hannah Kain made in their 2019 white paper titled, "Roadmap for Sourcing Across Borders in Uncertain Times". The Garrison Sisters ask Ben to assess how these forecasts played out and then explore escalating risks impacting current global trade including cyber-warfare and geopolitical conflict. The discussion then turns to strategies organizations can implement to reduce risk and protect their supply chain.

Supply Chain Talent Crisis: How To Win The Skills Race

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 13:44:13 -0800

Smart Supply Chain podcast host Shireen Garrison moderates a dynamic discussion with ALOM CEO Hannah Kain and Mr. Supply Chain himself, Daniel Stanton, on the best resources and strategies to prepare today’s workforce to solve tomorrow’s supply chain challenges. Hannah and Daniel explore key skills gaps, effective learning resources, and the evolving landscape of supply chain education, compliance, and data management.

What Should Every 3PL Know About Li-ion Battery Storage Safety

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:04:50 -0700

In this Smart Supply Chain podcast episode, fire safety expert Todd LaBerge shares detailed data on the fire risks of lithium-ion batteries and what questions to ask your 3PL to ensure inventory is protected. Find out what industry leading safety Li-ion fire safety measures ALOM is implementing in our new Sacramento, CA facility to protect customers and ensure workplace safety.

A CEO Perspective: 2024 Supply Chain Outlook

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0800

In this episode of "Smart Supply Chain," ALOM CEO Hannah Kain identifies industry trends she’s watching closely as we head into 2024. Relying on decades of experience, she delves into how volatile geopolitics, technological advancements, and sustainability initiatives are reshaping today’s supply chains. Tune in to hear one of the industry’s most respected and visionary experts as she shares her 2024 supply chain outlook.

Logistics: Getting Anything Everywhere All at Once

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0700

In the latest episode of Smart Supply Chain, ALOM Director of Logistics Brandon Hulse challenges the common misperception that logistics is merely about delivering finished goods to the customer and explores the all-encompassing role of logistics in every part of the supply chain. This informative episode highlights the consequences of undervaluing logistics and champions the need for strong logistics partners to forge efficient, effective supply chains.

The True Cost of Supply Chain Quality

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 10:38:46 -0700

In this can’t-miss episode of Smart Supply Chain, we welcome back a audience favorite, ALOM CEO Hannah Kain, and introduce a fresh voice to the podcast, Kaveh Moraghebi, Senior Director of Quality and Sustainability at ALOM. Together, they discuss one of the industry’s most debated topics – the true cost of quality in the supply chain. These supply chain savants delve into the impact on quality on the entire supply chain, from product design to the end user. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newbie, you'll walk away with a more nuanced understanding of the complex topic that is quality.

Pushing Reverse Logistics Forward

Wed, 24 May 2023 07:35:13 -0700

In this age of booming ecommerce and heightened customer expectations, returns management is increasingly complex. This episode of Smart Supply Chain, featuring ALOM Vice President of Supply Chain Strategy Lisa Dolan, unpacks how reverse logistics significantly influences customer satisfaction and brand reputation, along with highlighting innovative strategies and solutions to navigate the ever-evolving returns environment.

CFO Viewpoint: The Price of Supply Chain Disruption

Thu, 11 May 2023 07:11:31 -0700

Inflation, increasing interest rates, a shaky economy, softening consumer demand, geopolitical unrest, war ... the list of factors creating uncertainty in the global supply chain continues to grow, putting even more pressure on supply chain professionals. In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, ALOM CFO Jack Sexton discusses the price of supply chain uncertainty and offers tips on how to manage these ballooning costs and create a resilient, cost efficient supply chain.

How ChatGPT Will Change Supply Chains

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 10:59:26 -0700

With the buzz around ChatGPT continuing to increase, Smart Supply Chain connected with one of our listeners' favorite experts, ALOM COO/CTO Brandon Marugg, and asked him to share his thoughts about this powerful AI and the future of chatbots. In this can't miss episode, Brandon not only explains ChatGPT, but also digs into how it will change supply chains and the benefits and risks related to using this type of AI.

Nearsourcing: The Fast and The Flexible

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 07:52:16 -0800

Speed into this latest episode of Smart Supply Chain featuring ALOM's Lisa Dolan, vice president of supply chain strategy, and Shawn Bush, supply base manager. These two supply chain experts trade insights and opinions on nearsourcing and why it's a critical strategy in today's environment. This exciting episode races into the history of nearsourcing and why it's coming back with a roar. So strap in and enjoy the ride!

How Tech-Focused COOs Are Transforming Supply Chains

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 09:52:04 -0700

Every company, regardless of size or industry, is becoming a tech company, according to ALOM's new Chief Operating Officer Brandon Marugg. In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, he explains what it means to be a tech-focused COO and how that mindset impacts the management of supply chains today and tomorrow. From culture and software integration to "I Love Lucy" and Jenga, this episode is not only enlightening but also entertaining.

Zen and the Art of a Successful Supply Chain Program Launch

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 10:01:49 -0700

The launch of a new supply chain program is undoubtedly exciting, but it can also be stressful. All too often, the planning and contracting process is rocky, and onboarding doesn't meet expectations. In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, Shireen Garrison and Steve Brown, leaders on ALOM's Strategic Account Management team, detail methods to overcome challenges related to new program launches and the art of ensuring their success. Filled with real-life examples and helpful advice, this episode is a must-listen for all supply chain pros.

The Pick Up – a Fresh Perspective on Picking Strategies

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 06:47:45 -0700

ALOM Director of Operations Steven Pierce lets us pick his brain about various picking strategies and the most popular picking methods. Full of fun, fascinating dialogue and real-world examples about all things picking-related, this episode of Smart Supply Chain provides a fresh perspective on one of the most important supply chain management basics.

The New Math of Supply Chain

Thu, 19 May 2022 06:59:56 -0700

Within organizations today, supply chain is moving into the spotlight. C-suite execs and boards are realizing supply chain drives their businesses. This realization has changed the way they think about the math of supply chain. In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, ALOM VP of Global Accounts Dana Hicks digs into supply chain’s evolution from a simple cost center into a a critical function that increases revenue and improves customer satisfaction.

Why Companies Are Moving Closer to Nearshoring Strategies

Wed, 04 May 2022 14:18:07 -0700

After several decades of offshoring manufacturing and supplier networks to Asia, many corporations are now embracing nearshoring. In this episode, Rosemary Coates, executive director of the Reshoring Institute, and Hannah Kain, president & CEO of ALOM, partner up to deliver a though-provoking discussion that digs into what's motivating corporations to shift their strategy and how that shift will impact supply chains around the world.

Industry Outlook and Predictions from 3 Supply Chain Pros to Know

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 09:03:23 -0700

ALOM leaders Hannah Kain, Lisa Dolan, and Eunice Lobo each bring a different perspective to the supply chain industry in this engaging episode of Smart Supply Chain. These brilliant supply chain experts, who've been named as 2022 Pros to Know by Supply & Demand Chain Executive, provide a comprehensive industry outlook and share insightful predictions for the coming years.

Building a Winning Team and Culture Over 25 Years

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 06:40:28 -0700

This episode of Smart Supply Chain is packed with supply chain experts! In honor of ALOM's 25th anniversary, we feature three of the company's employees with the longest tenure: Lisa Dolan, VP of supply chain strategy; Brandon Marugg, chief technology & privacy officer; and Lynn Pensa, senior account manager. These ALOM Long Timers, as we like to call them, have been with the company almost since the beginning. In this episode, they share their thoughts on ALOM's evolution, what makes ALOM unique and different compared to other organizations, and their proudest and most memorable moments at ALOM.

A Guaranteed Strategy to Achieve Operational Excellence

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 07:30:16 -0800

In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, ALOM Director of Operations Eunice Lobo discusses her favorite strategy for achieving operational excellence: the balanced scorecard. Whether you're familiar with the balanced scorecard or completely new to it, you'll find a lot of value in Lobo's expertise and examples of how this strategy can help an organization stay true to its mission and vision while exceeding its customer expectations and financial objectives.

Win the Supply Chain Talent Battle as the ’Employer of Choice’

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 08:39:02 -0800

Like many industries, manufacturing and supply chain are dealing with a persistent talent shortage – one that the pandemic exacerbated. Not only are organizations competing to acquire talent, but also retain the talent they already have. In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, ALOM President and CEO Hannah Kain and Head of People Paul Vagadori discuss best practices for managing talent, the importance of a diverse workforce, and how organizations can position themselves as the 'Employer of Choice' in this competitive labor market.

25 Years of Supply Chain Leadership – The Founder’s Story

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 16:03:51 -0800

In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, ALOM President and CEO Hannah Kain discusses her entrepreneurial journey, from a little girl in Denmark who dreamed of owning her own business to founding one of the largest woman-owned supply chain service providers and B2B e-commerce pioneer in the U.S. Today, as ALOM celebrates 25 years of operations, Kain recalls the obstacles she experienced and overcame to cement the company's position as a technology-driven industry innovator and quality leader.

Digital Transformation Giving Rise to Intelligent Supply Chain

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 09:45:09 -0800

Digital transformation (DX) involves integrating digital technology into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing the way it operates and delivers value to customers. In this episode, ALOM’s Chief Technology and Privacy Officer Brandon Marugg engages in a thought-provoking dialogue about the goals of DX and how its impact is creating a more intelligent supply chain.

Seeing Supply Chain Through the Eyes of a CFO

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 09:56:33 -0800

While most people realize that CFOs play important roles, most lack a true understanding of the many parts of an organization CFOs touch, especially when it comes to supply chain. This enlightening episode, featuring ALOM CFO Jack Sexton, offers a peek into the mind of a CFO, providing listeners with a better sense of how a CFO thinks about supply chains and how he directly influences an organization's success.

Supply Chain 2021 – A Look Back and Lessons Learned

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 12:48:22 -0800

2021’s legacy will be The Year of Supply Chain. Suddenly, supply chain wasn't unfamiliar or uninteresting, but something everyone wanted to talk about. In this episode, ALOM CEO Hannah Kain looks back at the challenges the whack-a-mole supply chain created, the lessons supply chain professionals learned, what she considers to be the biggest surprise of the year, and what, if anything, keeps her up at night. This is an episode you don't want to miss.

Evolution of Data in the Supply Chain

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 15:07:02 -0800

Have you always wondered about the correct pronunciation of the word "data"? Are you curious about the different ways data can be used to improve supply chain performance? Do you want to know how machine learning and AI can transform supply chains? ALOM's Chief Technology and Privacy Officer Brandon Marugg answers all these questions and more in this episode of Smart Supply Chain.

The Supply Chain of the Future

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 05:42:13 -0700

What will the global supply chain look like in 2027, and what can supply chain professionals do today to prepare for the future? ALOM's VP of Supply Chain Strategy Lisa Dolan tackles these questions in this riveting discussion that delves into shifting consumer expectations, advances in data and machine learning/AI, green supply chains, and more.

Turning Today‘s Troubles into Today‘s Success

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 06:44:42 -0700

Supply chain professionals are dealing with a lot today – unpredictable demand, material shortages, labor shortages, freight delays, political unrest, extreme weather … the list of troubles goes on and on. Yet, the best of the best are still filling orders and delivering on-time. ALOM’s VP of Client Success Fiona Lowbridge draws on two decades of supply chain experience and offers expert advice on how to emphasize collaboration, communication, trust, and resilience to turn today’s troubles into success.

Stamping Out Supply Chain Slavery

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 10:58:43 -0700

Nearly 50 million people around the globe are modern slaves. Slavery is all around us – in the clothes we wear, the toys we buy our children, and the food we eat. ALOM CEO Hannah Kain discusses the reasons why our global supply chain is vulnerable to slavery and the actions supply chain professionals must take to stamp out slavery.

Fighting Cyber Threats in Supply Chain

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 06:56:17 -0700

Supply chains are increasingly threatened by cyber attacks, which can compromise tens of thousands of victims through a single breach. In this episode, David Edwards, senior director of technology solutions and security for ALOM, details the evolving risks for digital and physical supply chains and what cybersecurity experts can do to fight these cyber threats.

Supplier Diversity Strengthens Supply Chain Performance

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:31:55 -0700

Smart companies have realized the importance of a robust supplier diversity program and have made suppler diversity a top corporate initiative. In this episode, Rich Watson, ALOM's director of supply base management, digs into supplier diversity programs and the value they bring to supply chains.

Just-in-Time vs Just-in-Case

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 14:04:30 -0700

This episode features Hannah Kain, president and CEO of ALOM. We discuss Just-in-Time (JIT) vs Just-in-Case (JIC) strategies for inventory and supply chain management.