The Supply Chaney Podcast

What happens when the person in charge doesn't look like the person you expected?

During an emergency at a fuel terminal in South Africa, first responders kept asking Regina Naicker to speak with the person in charge. The problem? Regina WAS the person in charge.

In this episode of The Supply Chaney Podcast, Nathan Chaney sits down with Regina in Durban, South Africa, to hear her incredible journey through more than two decades in the energy and supply chain industry.

From navigating traditionally male-dominated environments to becoming a passionate advocate for the next generation of supply chain leaders, Regina shares some powerful lessons about earning trust, challenging assumptions, and creating opportunities for others.

But the conversation doesn't stop at leadership.

Nathan and Regina also dig into what's happening across South Africa and the African continent, including energy infrastructure challenges, the growth of e-commerce, global trade, and why Africa represents such an exciting opportunity for the future of supply chain.

In this episode, we cover:

• Regina's journey into energy and supply chain leadership
• The emergency response story that exposed unconscious bias
• Why great leadership starts with building trust
• Creating opportunities for women and the next generation of supply chain professionals
• South Africa's energy and infrastructure challenges
• Amazon, e-commerce, and the changing logistics landscape
• Africa's growing role in global supply chains and international trade

This is a conversation about people, leadership, and the opportunities that exist when we start looking beyond what we've always known.

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

For this episode, my good friend Stephen D. Bullard invited us aboard his Catalina 250 for a sunset sail on Lake Grapevine, Texas. With planes approaching Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) overhead, we recorded one of the most unique episodes of the Supply Chaney Podcast.

Stephen is currently Head of Business Development at CEVA Government Services and President of the NDTA North Texas Chapter.

With decades of experience across aviation, freight forwarding, operations, and sales leadership, Stephen has some incredible stories and perspectives to share. We cover everything from his first job waxing airplanes and dispatching cargo flights with a grease pencil to landing major accounts, photographing the Olympics, navigating business failures, building successful sales teams, and embracing AI.

One of the key takeaways- great leaders aren't necessarily the best performers. They're the ones who make everyone around them better.

It's a conversation about much more than moving freight. It's about relationships, resilience, leadership, and how an industry veteran sees the future of logistics.

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode of the Supply Chaney Podcast, Nathan Chaney talks with Mark Hiddleson about his 30 years in material handling, entrepreneurship, warehouse storage solutions, and the importance of building a network that creates value for everyone involved.

Mark shares stories about growing his business, his involvement with the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), and how warehouse tours and industry associations helped shape his career.

They also explore cold chain logistics, supply chain visibility, an innovative high school logistics training program, and why Mark eventually embraced podcasting as a way to build meaningful professional connections.

Topics covered:

• Warehouse racking and material handling solutions
• Entrepreneurship and building a family-first business
• Networking without constantly selling
• Cold storage and supply chain visibility
• Workforce development and logistics education
• Building customer loyalty through trust and shared values

🎙️ Subscribe to the Supply Chaney Podcast for more conversations with the doers, makers, and builders shaping the supply chain industry.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Mark Hiddleson
01:08 – Mark's Background and Involvement with WERC
02:02 – 30 Years in Material Handling and Warehouse Storage
02:55 – Starting Specialized Storage Solutions
04:16 – Building a Business Around Family and Lifestyle
05:36 – Growing Up in California's Central Valley
08:37 – Agriculture, Food Logistics, and Cold Storage
10:31 – Supply Chain Visibility and Cargo Theft
13:12 – Building Relationships Through WERC and Warehouse Tours
16:17 – Networking, Adding Value, and Avoiding the Sales Pitch
19:58 – High School Students Running a Real Warehouse
24:45 – From Podcast Skeptic to Podcast Host
28:03 – Warehouse Design, Racking, and Specialized Storage Solutions
33:17 – When a Customer Fires You and Comes Back
35:00 – Final Thoughts and Closing

#SupplyChain #Warehousing #Logistics #Entrepreneurship #MaterialHandling

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

How do we help the next generation find their place in supply chain—and build careers they want to stay in?

Nathan Chaney sits down with Stephanie Thomas from the University of Arkansas to discuss supply chain education, mentorship, and the connections that shape a career. Stephanie shares her journey from IBM and Lowe’s to academia, her experience helping build Texas Tech’s supply chain program, and how she introduces hundreds of students to the industry.

They also explore WISE—We Impact Supply Chain Excellence—and how a student organization grew into a community connecting students, universities, and industry professionals. It’s a conversation about opening doors, finding the right fit, and giving back to the next generation.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome and meet Stephanie Thomas
01:21 Growing up in Tennessee
02:37 From pharmacy dreams to motivating students
04:32 Finding supply chain—and studying alongside Peyton Manning
07:04 Communication and diverse paths into supply chain
08:23 Developing the next generation of talent
10:39 Why mentors and industry connections matter
12:53 From IBM and Lowe’s to a career in academia
16:23 Building Texas Tech’s supply chain program
20:19 Teaching supply chain to hundreds of students
22:57 Why more students are choosing supply chain
24:32 Every company is a supply chain company
26:00 The unsung heroes and finding your career fit
27:48 Procurement, merchandising, and the customer experience
30:44 WISE: Building community and keeping talent in supply chain
36:29 Making WISE events accessible and expanding opportunities
38:09 Final thoughts and closing

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Steven J Edelstein shares his journey from health and beauty venture capital to supply chain expertise, emphasizing the importance of supply chain in brand success, system evolution, and building sustainable brands.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Steven Edelstein and episode overview
01:21 Steven's career journey from venture capital to supply chain
04:20 Family background and childhood influences
07:49 First job as a dishwasher and social lessons learned
12:27 Studying communications and early career choices
15:05 Entry into health, beauty, and wellness industries
17:38 Lessons learned from product formulation and packaging
20:54 Transition from product to supply chain focus
24:26 Overview of My FBA Prep and its services
31:49 The evolution of warehouse management systems
36:15 Risks and best practices for cloud-based systems
38:45 Strategies to reduce operational costs and improve profitability
42:16 Final insights: Patience, communication, and having fun

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Brad Reinhardt shares his extensive experience in logistics and transportation, emphasizing the importance of networking, industry associations, and continuous learning. Discover how his passion for the industry and commitment to community impact his career and the broader supply chain landscape.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Brad Reinhardt and his logistics journey
00:58 Brad's early experiences and entry into logistics in 1992
03:04 Growing up in St. Louis and local roots
04:59 Brad's childhood and sports interests
07:07 First experiences in logistics and warehousing
09:00 The personality and stress aspects of logistics work
11:03 COVID-19's impact on supply chain visibility and interest
13:00 The never-ending puzzle of logistics and continuous improvement
14:07 Brad's passion for live music and concerts
17:09 Metrics and KPIs in personal hobbies like concerts
19:01 Brad's involvement in industry networking and associations
21:59 The importance of networking and relationship building
27:00 Brad's participation in logistics associations and clubs
30:10 The history and mission of LTNA and industry networking
33:00 The role of regional and national industry conferences
35:56 Challenges and opportunities in industry event organization
38:04 Troops to Logistics: Supporting veterans transitioning into supply chain
40:48 The rewarding nature of mentoring and community service
43:03 Closing remarks and future industry involvement

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Will Fediw, Senior Vice President of the Virginia Maritime Association, shares his journey from growing up around water to leading industry advocacy. Discover insights on maritime careers, industry programs, and the importance of networking in the supply chain sector.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest
01:09 Will Fediw’s background and early influences
02:00 Growing up in Hampton Roads and family influences
03:08 Educational journey and accidental entry into maritime studies
04:42 Early career and military service in the Coast Guard
16:58 Transition from military to private sector in LNG and petrochemicals
22:36 Joining the Virginia Maritime Association and industry advocacy
33:30 Overview of VMA programs, events, and conferences
40:01 The upcoming maritime symposium and its significance
43:28 Final advice on industry involvement and networking

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, we explore the principles of learning from failures, community building among practitioners, and the application of DDMRP in supply chain management. Our guest emphasizes the importance of shared experiences and practical insights for continuous improvement.

Key Takeaways
-Smart people learn from their own failures, wise people learn from others' failures.
-Building a community of practitioners accelerates shared learning.
-Practical application of DDMRP can significantly improve supply chain efficiency.
-Sharing experiences and practices fosters continuous improvement.
-Community-driven insights help adapt strategies to real-world challenges.

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Will Haraway shares his extensive journey through supply chain, marketing, and PR, highlighting how organic relationships and diverse experiences have shaped his success. Discover insights on media evolution, PR strategies, and the importance of staying curious in a rapidly changing industry.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Will’s background in sports and journalism
01:20 Will’s entry into supply chain and early career experiences
04:06 Will’s upbringing and musical family roots
08:10 Early aspirations to be a sportscaster and shift to media production
14:12 First major role at Manhattan Associates and understanding supply chain systems
19:08 Transition to cloud technology and new opportunities in supply chain
21:52 Forming LeadCoverage with Kara and organic growth
28:16 The role of media evolution and social media in B2B marketing
34:28 The importance of niche expertise and media relations
37:34 Final words of wisdom and staying curious

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Jeff Piela, founder and CEO of Centurion Worldwide, shares his journey from warehouse worker to leading a innovative freight forwarding company. We explore the complexities of international logistics, the importance of customer service, and how Centurion is doing things differently in the busy supply chain industry.

Key topics
Jeff Piela's background and early career
The role and importance of freight forwarding
How Centurion Worldwide differentiates itself
The impact of international logistics complexities
Customer service as a competitive advantage
Jeff's entrepreneurial journey and founding Centurion
The significance of local ownership and accountability in logistics
The future of supply chain innovation

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Todd Boone from Dexory shares insights into how their innovative warehouse visibility technology is transforming supply chain operations, the importance of accurate inventory management, and the evolving role of logistics in the global economy.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Todd Boone and Dexory
01:02 Todd Boone's Background and Career Path
02:00 Growing Up in Toronto and International Moves
03:39 Sports and Personal Development
04:41 Journey from Disliking to Competing in Swimming
07:29 Global Experiences and Cultural Perspectives
10:14 Career Decisions and Entry into Technology
12:39 Lessons from Nortel and Tech Logics
16:19 Broadening Horizons through Mergers and Acquisitions
17:31 The Evolving Role of Logistics and Supply Chain
22:45 How Dexory Started and Their Market Approach
25:21 Expanding into North America
26:55 Approach to Inventory and Warehouse Visibility
27:06 Dexory's Full Stack Solution and Digital Twin
28:10 Real-Time Warehouse Visualization and Benefits
29:40 Using Data for Proactive Operations
30:19 Error Rates and Cost of Inaccuracy
33:32 Supply Chain Visibility as a Predictability Tool
34:49 Future Trends in Supply Chain and AI
41:27 Final Thoughts on Industry Growth and Innovation

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Evan Shelley, co-founder of Truck Parking Club, shares his journey from small-town Kentucky to building a innovative marketplace solving truck parking shortages. Discover how his background, mindset, and industry insights shaped this impactful business.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Evan Shelley and his background
01:05 Evan's small town roots and early influences
03:24 Evan's journey through real estate and land development
04:45 How Evan got involved in truck parking solutions
15:36 The idea behind creating a truck parking marketplace
17:05 Building and launching the Truck Parking Club platform
22:12 Evan's advice for entrepreneurs and startup mindset
23:24 The core problem of truck parking shortages
25:02 How the marketplace connects drivers and property owners
28:59 Balancing technology, culture, and customer service
34:38 Future plans and upcoming industry events

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Tom Strain from Surgere shares his journey from a childhood fascination with technology to leading innovative supply chain visibility solutions. We explore the evolution of data, AI's role in transforming industries, and the importance of human wisdom in leveraging technology effectively.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tom Strain and Surgere
02:30 Tom's childhood, sports, and early interests in technology
04:07 Growing up in Youngstown, Ohio, and family values
05:04 Tom's education and early career at General Motors
06:57 Transition to healthcare and international experience
08:48 Return to automotive industry and software leadership
12:14 First car stories and early influences
14:03 Reflections on Y2K and technological challenges
17:49 Insights on data, AI, and the future of technology
23:08 The concept of knowledge, wisdom, and AI's role
25:11 Tom's role at Surgere and supply chain visibility
28:08 Managing large data volumes and AI automation
31:02 The evolution of AI in supply chain solutions
32:51 Defining supply chain visibility and its significance
36:03 The future of AI, data, and human wisdom in business
36:58 Closing thoughts and key takeaways from Tom

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Jay Webb shares his journey from entrepreneurial beginnings to specializing in supply chain talent acquisition, highlighting how AI is transforming recruiting and the importance of adaptability in fast-growing industries.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jay Webb and the podcast
01:12 The origin of The Goats of Growth and its mission
03:11 Jay Webb’s focus on supply chain and go-to-market roles
04:37 Speeding up recruitment cycles with AI
05:48 Jay Webb’s childhood, education, and early interests
07:37 Learning Claude Code and curiosity as a superpower
09:49 Transition from enterprise to real estate and land investments
14:11 Early career at Enterprise Rent-A-Car and entrepreneurial mindset
17:49 Long-term decisions and real estate investments
20:53 Starting in recruiting and building a niche in supply chain tech
25:35 Focus on go-to-market roles and industry specialization
30:11 The dynamics of turnover in sales and leadership roles
36:43 The role of AI and technology in future recruiting and growth
38:17 Final thoughts and how to connect with Jay Webb

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Bryan Corbett, VP of Sales and Marketing at Barrett Distribution, shares his extensive experience in supply chain, entrepreneurship, and logistics. We explore his career journey, insights into the 3PL industry, and strategies for building strong client relationships.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and guest background
00:25 Bryan Corbett’s early life and entrepreneurial start
01:52 Career evolution and industry experience
03:12 Lessons from running warehouses and logistics
05:02 The importance of hands-on industry knowledge
09:09 Balancing work, sports, and personal growth
11:52 Educational background and early career choices
14:39 Inspiration behind his first business
15:36 Key industry moments and networking stories
19:54 Overview of Barrett Distribution and services
24:41 Technology, innovation, and human expertise in logistics
28:00 Sales and marketing strategies in supply chain
33:28 Closing thoughts and future outlook

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

Justin Cramer, "Mater of Eclectic Obligations" of ProShip, shares insights into the evolution of parcel shipping, logistics technology, and the impact of industry changes like AI, automation, and the Amazon effect. Discover how complex systems, military experience, and software innovation shape modern supply chain solutions.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Justin Cramer and ProShip
01:59 Justin's military background and understanding complex systems
03:55 Evolution of parcel shipping technology and automation
06:51 Justin's early career and transition into software
11:13 Founding of ProShip and industry landscape in early 2000s
17:50 Differentiating ProShip from competitors
21:56 Impact of COVID-19 on regional carriers
29:08 Global reach and international logistics
36:55 Justin's upcoming book: The five questions to ship anything
40:45 Closing thoughts and industry insights

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Michael Chen, CEO and co-founder of Yondu AI, shares his journey from building robots as a kid to leading a general-purpose robotics company. We explore the future of physical AI, its impact on industries like logistics and restaurants, and the importance of responsible automation.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Supply Chain and Robotics
01:09 Michael Chen's Journey: From Immigrant Roots to Robotics
07:14 The Evolution of Robotics and AI in Warehousing
11:10 Understanding Physical AI and Its Applications
14:15 The Impact of Robotics on Employment
17:19 Legislative Responsibilities in the Age of Robotics
19:16 Navigating Business Challenges in Robotics
21:43 Targeting the Right Customers in Logistics
24:22 Economics of Integrating Robotics in Warehouses
26:29 Design Choices in Robotics: Function vs. Form
28:56 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Innovators

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Krish Nathan, CEO of Element Logic Americas, shares his journey from engineering to industrial automation and supply chain solutions. He discusses the evolution of warehouse technology, the role of integrators, and insights for supply chain professionals.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Supply Chaney Podcast
00:57 Krish Nathan's Background and Journey
03:08 Early Influences and Education
07:38 Transitioning from Engineering to Sales
11:35 The Role of Project Management in Sales
18:27 Joining Element Logic and Industry Evolution
28:46 Understanding the Role of Integrators
32:39 The Impact of E-commerce on Supply Chain
35:42 Final Thoughts on Technology and Visibility

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Colin Singh Dhillon shares his journey from the UK to Canada, his insights on design, innovation, AI, and the future of education and autonomous vehicles. Discover how his diverse experiences shape his vision for a better, more sustainable world.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Human Element of Supply Chain
00:59 Colin's Journey: From the UK to Canada
05:25 Growing Up in Tipton: Early Influences
09:08 Education and the Path to Industrial Design
14:47 Career Journey: From Medical Design to Automotive
19:03 The Role of Mentorship in Career Development
21:06 Giving Back: Community Service and Mentorship
24:59 Writing and Sharing Personal Stories
26:51 Current Projects: Physical AI and Humanoid Robots
30:00 Sustainability in Transportation: Retrofitting Trucks
31:46 The Future of AI: Emotional Intelligence in Technology
36:36 Education Reform: Preparing the Next Generation

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.

In this episode, Alon Partuk shares his entrepreneurial journey from military service to founding Octup, a cutting-edge AI-driven 3PL management platform. Discover how his experiences, failures, and innovations are transforming the logistics industry.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Alon and Octup
02:45 Alon's Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit
05:35 Military Service and Its Impact on Alon's Career
08:56 The Journey of Building Businesses
11:44 Challenges and Lessons from Early Ventures
14:47 Founding Octup and Identifying Market Needs
17:34 Innovations in 3PL Operations with AI
20:40 Client Success Stories and Impact of Octup
23:43 Key Learnings and Future Directions for Octup
26:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Surgere is the official partner of The Supply Chaney Podcast for 2026. Surgere’s singular focus is building AI-powered, frictionless supply chains that result in real time, end-to-end visibility with 99.9% accuracy for partners and customers.