The Logistics of Logistics

Rick Tellez and Joe Lynch discuss the KlearNow story. Rick is the Co-founder of KlearNow, a tech firm dedicated to simplifying global customs clearance and drayage functions. About Rick Tellez Rick Tellez is the Co-founder of KlearNow, a technology start-up positioned as the go-to digital supply chain solution for businesses that trade across borders. His business acumen was built from a 20-year successful track record of managing operations, engineering and sales positions at DHL. Prior to starting KlearNow, Rick was on an executive career development track at DHL where he experienced multiple aspects of the business, including operations, process improvement, hub and gateway management, labor negotiations, special project management, and sales. Rick saw the frustrations faced by today's supply chain operators, and those observations sparked his desire to start KlearNow. Now, Rick uses his first-hand experience to inform the strategy behind KlearNow's logistics technology and services. Rick received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Colorado at Boulder. About KlearNow KlearNow is transforming supply chains with its smart Logistics as a Service (LaaS) platform that connects data, people, processes, and organizations to enable new levels of visibility and productivity that reduce logistics costs and create better customer experiences. KlearNow's customs clearance and drayage marketplaces on its AI-powered platform ease supply chain bottlenecks by digitizing paper-based transactions and enabling customs brokers and transporters to deliver superior real-time visibility needs of importers, exporters, and freight forwarders. Key Takeaways: The KlearNow Story Rick Tellez is the Co-founder of KlearNow, a tech firm dedicated to simplifying global customs clearance and drayage functions. In the podcast interview, Joe and Rick discussed Rick's entrepreneurial journey and the founding of KlearNow. The global supply chain logistics market is highly fragmented with documentation processes that are complex, labor-intensive, error-prone, and time-consuming. KlearNow's goal is to simplify and automate those processes. KlearNow custom clearance Digital customs clearance with end-to-end shipment and transportation visibility Consolidated view of customs activities and multi-leg shipments on one platform Clear customs exceptions quickly KlearNow drayage Connecting truckers to shipments just at the right time with KlearNow Trucker Mobile App Last mile visibility for efficient warehouse planning and increased customer satisfaction Real-time demurrage clock to avoid unnecessary fees Learn More About The KlearNow Story Rick's LinkedIn KlearNow LinkedIn KlearNow 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

Chuck Wallace and Joe Lynch discuss the HDVI story. Chuck is the CEO and Co-founder of High Definition Vehicle Insurance (HDVI), where he leads an experienced team of insurance, technology, and trucking industry experts who deeply understand the challenges of today's fleets. About Chuck Wallace Chuck Wallace is the CEO and Co-founder of HDVI. He has decades of experience in the insurtech, mobility, and freight and logistics markets -- and the intersection between these three industries. Prior to founding HDVI, Chuck held senior operating roles in leading consumer financial services and technology companies, including Co-founder of Esurance (acquired by Allstate in 2011); Head of Operations at Automatic Labs (connected car and connected insurance platform company acquired by SiriusXM in 2017); President at uSell.com (eCommerce platform company for sale of used mobile consumer electronics), and was the CEO at Ustream.TV (live video broadcast platform company acquired by IBM in 2016). Chuck started his career as a United States Air Force instructor pilot, first teaching young men and women to fly at undergraduate pilot training in Lubbock Texas, and then flying the C-130 Hercules in Frankfurt, Germany and Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Chuck is a graduate of the US Air Force Academy. He earned an MBA from the Wharton School, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. About HDVI HDVI delivers modern insurance driven by safety, service and savings to small and mid-size trucking fleet operators. It aims to become a partner to fleet business owners by providing next-generation insurance integrated with best-in-class telematics hardware, advanced software and services to help them manage their vehicles and business each day. By incorporating telematics and dash cam data from its customers into its integrated risk management model, HDVI is able to select, price, manage, and retain risk more accurately and efficiently than incumbent commercial auto insurance providers. HDVI is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with additional offices in Greenville, South Carolina; Austin, Texas; and San Francisco, California. High Definition Vehicle Insurance, Inc. is a licensed property casualty insurance agent with products underwritten by various insurance companies. HDVI Newsroom with all recent news, including most recent press release: https://hdvi.com/newsroom/ Key Takeaways: The HDVI Story Chuck Wallace is the CEO and Co-founder of High Definition Vehicle Insurance (HDVI), where he leads an experienced team of insurance, technology, and trucking industry experts who deeply understand the challenges of today's fleets. In the podcast interview, Joe and Chuck discuss Chuck's impressive background and the founding of HDVI. Chuck is one of the Co-founders of Esurance, which was eventually acquired by Allstate. Chuck and the team at Esurance were one of the first insurance companies to sell policies directly to consumers over the internet, instead of using in-person meetings or phone calls. Chuck has also successfully lead a number of companies that have one characteristic in common – disruptive brands that transformed markets by leveraging technology and data. Chuck and his team at HDVI are using the same playbook, using tech to lower costs and deliver a better customer experience. HDVI created Shift – the first dynamically priced insurance product that enables fleets to reduce the cost of their monthly premiums within their policy term. HDVI's Shift tool uses a fleet's own real-time telematics data to charge a fleet the cost of their actual risk. Because HDVI has more precise information, they are able to deliver savings that traditional insurers can't match. They are also able to provide specific insights that can make a fleet safer – thus reducing their insurance costs. HDVI's fleet portal and dashboards help fleets understand how to improve safety and decrease insurance premiums. Learn More About The HDVI Story Chuck's LinkedIn HDVI LinkedIn HDVI HDVI Blog Customer testimonials 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

Ryan Schreiber and Joe Lynch discuss 3 freight trends to watch. Ryan is the Vice President, Industry and Growth at Metafora, previously "CarrierDirect", which is the leading business consulting and software development firm that exclusively serves the Transportation, Logistics and Supply Chain space. About Ryan Schreiber Ryan Schreiber is the Vice President, Industry and Growth, at Metafora. Ryan was born and raised in Tampa, Florida. Ryan earned a degree in History from the University of South Florida and then a Law degree from Michigan State University. Prior to joining Metafora, Ryan worked at a variety of logistics companies and even started and exited a few tech-enabled freight brokerage start-ups. Ryan is a skilled technologist and strategist who has helped transform many leading transportation and logistics companies. In Ryan's experience, great technology is important, but finding and keeping the right people is the key to success in the 3PL business. About Metafora Metafora, previously "CarrierDirect", is the leading business consulting and software development firm that exclusively serves the Transportation, Logistics and Supply Chain space. They partner with carriers, shippers, and freight tech vendors to help them optimize their business and build software to fuel their growth. Welcome to the new way forward. Welcome to Metafora. Key Takeaways: 3 Freight Trends to Watch Ryan Schreiber is the Vice President, Industry and Growth at Metafora, previously "CarrierDirect", which is the leading business consulting and software development firm that exclusively serves the Transportation, Logistics and Supply Chain space. In the podcast interview, Ryan and Joe discuss the following 3 freight trends to watch. Successful freight-tech selection, implementation, and deployment is one of the keys to competing and winning in the logistics space. Companies would be wise to get outside help from experts like Metafora – the cost of failure is too high. The best logistics and transportation companies are investing in their people, technology, and better understanding their customers. Partnering with other companies to increase capacity, capability, and competitiveness is the new norm among logistics leaders. Companies like Lean Solutions Group (staffing partner) and Metafora (consulting/technology) are enabling their customers to grow faster and more profitably. Metafora has a deep knowledge of the components that contribute to growth and profitability for transportation and logistics companies at all stages of your journey. Metafora is a trusted partner who will jump at the chance to help carriers, freight brokers, shippers, and tech vendors do great things. At Metafora, they are experts in all things transportation, logistics and supply chain strategy and technology. Their mission is to help your business overcome roadblocks toward progress and growth, so we can contribute to a more efficient world together. For the carriers, 3PLs, and brokers who are ready to go the extra mile towards growth, profitability, and overall improvement: it's time to consider Metafora. Learn More About 3 Freight Trends to Watch Metafora LinkedIn Metafora website Metafora Services Explore Metafora's library of ebooks, guides, white papers for all things designed for freight brokers, trucking companies, 3PLs, and shippers here Comments or questions for Ryan or Metafora? You can get in touch with them here 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

Brittany Traylor and Joe Lynch discuss the TraylorTranspo story. Brittany is the CEO of TraylorTranspo LLC, an asset light brokerage that specializes in power-only moves, which typically means the carrier provides the tractor and the shipper provides the trailer. About Brittany Traylor Brittany Traylor is the Founder and CEO of TraylorTranspo, an asset-based freight brokerage that streamlines the logistics function and delivers a superior customer experience using consumer-grade freight tech (Turvo). Prior to launching her own company in 2021, Brittany was an owner-operator for over 5 years. During that time, Brittany drove dry van, flat bed, and over-dimensional loads all over the lower 48 states. As a driver, she gained first-hand insights into the challenges facing both truck drivers and shippers. When she founded her own company, Brittany committed to building a better brokerage, with a real connection to both drivers and shippers. Brittany was raised in the foster care system in Germany and moved to the USA as an adult so her success hasn't come easily. With the goal of paying it forward, Traylor Transpo partners with the Texas Workforce Commission to help people get their start in logistics and supply chain. About TraylorTranspo TraylorTranspo is an asset-based freight brokerage based in Dallas, Texas. Traylor was founded by an owner-operator, Brittany Traylor who wanted to create a tech-centric brokerage that puts people first – so employees, drivers, carriers, and shippers are all family at Traylor. The company specializes in drop and hook shipments (power-only) and open-deck transportation. The company also moves a lot of scrap, which is a notoriously difficult type of freight to haul. Traylor's technology streamlines the shipping process, reduces cost, and facilitates collaboration. TraylorTranspo also has a social mission of helping people typically under-represented in logistics - get their start. About Turvo Turvo provides the world's leading collaboration application designed specifically for the supply chain. Turvo connects people and organizations allowing shippers, logistics providers, and carriers to unite their supply chains, deliver outstanding customer experiences, collaborate in real-time, and accelerate growth. The technology unifies all systems, internal and external, providing one end-to-end solution to execute all operations and analytics while eliminating redundant manual tasks and automating business processes. Turvo customers include some of the world's largest, Fortune 500 logistics service providers, shippers and freight brokers. Turvo is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with offices in Dallas, Texas, and Hyderabad, India. Key Takeaways: The TraylorTranspo Story Brittany Traylor is the Founder and CEO of TraylorTranspo, an asset light brokerage that specializes in power-only moves, which typically means the carrier provides the tractor and the shipper provides the trailer. In the podcast interview, Joe and Brittany discuss Brittany's difficult childhood, moving to America as a young adult, and the founding of TraylorTranspo. Power only trucking is a full truckload move that occurs when a carrier provides only a driver and a tractor or "power unit." With power only moves, the driver does not bring a trailer, but instead hooks up to and hauls a trailer that is either leased or owned by a 3PL or shipper. Drop and hook shipments became more popular after the hours of service (HOS) and electronic logging device (ELD) mandate took effect in 2019. With drop and hook shipments, drivers are able to spend more time driving because they are not involved in live loads / uploads. Drivers simply drop the trailer and the shipper unloads the trailer when they have time. For pickups, drivers hook up the trailer and get back to driving. Because of her difficult upbringing, Brittany makes a point of giving people an opportunity to succeed. TraylorTranspo works closely with the Texas Work Force Commission to hire and train people who often are not given a chance – this has lead to a very loyal team and family-like culture at the company. Traylor is a small, but fast growing brokerage that is uses freight tech (Turvo) to streamline the shipping process, reduce costs per load, and deliver a superior customer experience for both carriers and shippers. Learn More About The TraylorTranspo Story Brittany's LinkedIn TraylorTranspo LinkedIn TraylorTranspo Turvo's LinkedIn Turvo Turvo Academy Makes Supply Chain Collaboration Easier Than Ever 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

Nathan Strang and Joe Lynch discuss the challenging shipping environment and why shippers need an ocean freight survival guide. Nathan is the Director of Ocean Trade Lane Management at Flexport, the operating system for global trade. About Nathan Strang Nathan Strang is the Director of Ocean Trade Lane Management at Flexport where he actively fights global logistics chaos. In his role Nathan utilizes Flexport's global logistics performance data to define short and long term ocean operations strategies that optimize carrier and port performance. This enables Flexport to reduce customer frustration and stress by providing greater certainty in a challenged market. Nathan also serves as Flexport's ocean and intermodal operations expert, distilling complex market trends into actionable insights for Flexport's internal teams and clients. Prior to Flexport Nathan served in the United States Navy as an operation and tactics expert and strategic planner. He holds an MS in Business Leadership from the University of San Diego and a BA in International Relations from Manhattan College (NY). About Flexport Flexport is the platform for global logistics. Companies of all sizes—from emerging brands to Fortune 500s—use Flexport technology to optimize their supply chains, and deliver for customers anywhere in the world. Flexport connects the entire ecosystem of global trade on the Flexport Platform, empowering buyers, sellers and logistics providers with the services and technology to grow and innovate. Key Takeaways: Ocean Freight Survival Guide Nathan Strang is the Director of Ocean Trade Lane Management at Flexport, the operating system for global trade. In the podcast interview, Joe and Nathan discuss the challenging shipping environment and why shippers need an ocean freight survival guide. The ocean freight market has unprecedented challenges caused by Covid, increased consumer spending (more imports), supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, war in Europe, fuel costs, - and seemingly a new problem every week. Nathan recommends that every shipper should do the following: Continuously assess your supply chain plan to understand volumes, transit times, assumptions, carriers, ports, and risks. Work with an NVO like Flexport to understand potential options that will reduce costs, transit times, and mitigate risks. Leverage technology and data insights from your NVO. If your NVO doesn't provide that edge, perhaps you should call Flexport. Flexport is an NVO or (Non-Vessel Owning Common Carrier). An NVO buys space or "slots" from a containership operator and sells them often to shippers whose freight is less than a full container load ( LCL ). Flexport provides customers a strategic operating model that powers more transparent, more agile, more efficient, and more profitable global supply chains. Flexport enables their clients and partners to simplify their supply chains by putting everything into one system. Flexport enables shippers to automate orders, onboard suppliers, book logistics, track cargo—even if other partners handle it. Flexport's single dashboard speeds workflows, enables collaboration, and provides shippers and carriers valuable insights. Learn More About Ocean Freight Survival Guide Nathan's LinkedIn Flexport LinkedIn Flexport 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

Tim Henry and Joe Lynch discuss the Haul story. Tim is the Co-founder and CEO of Haul, a digital platform that connects certified and vetted commercial truck drivers with trucking companies looking for qualified drivers. About Tim Henry Tim Henry is the CEO and Co-founder of Haul, a Bay Area and Denver based digital platform that connects certified and vetted commercial truck drivers with trucking companies to operate their trucks on assignments of various lengths. Prior to Haul, Tim advised some of the fastest venture backed startups in logistics and freight tech tackling fleet management system, the transportation management system and freight brokerage model in the US, EU and India. Prior to that, Tim was an early member of the team behind Uber Freight, a leading technology-first top 10 freight brokerage in the US. About Haul Haul is a digital platform that connects certified and vetted commercial truck drivers with trucking companies to operate their trucks on assignments of various lengths. Haul provides drivers the freedom to choose assignment type and schedule, while offering pay visibility and immediate access to earned wages. Simultaneously, Haul meets the needs of third-party logistics, private fleets, and trucking companies to provide drivers in a way that best meets their business needs, from temporary flex workers to full-time hires. Created by Uber Freight alumni, Haul is based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Denver. Key Takeaways: The Haul Story with Tim Henry Tim Henry is the Co-founder and CEO of Haul, a digital platform that connects certified and vetted commercial truck drivers with trucking companies looking for qualified drivers. In the podcast interview, Joe and Tim discussed Tim's career and his co-founding of Haul. Haul provides drivers the freedom to choose assignment type and schedule, while offering pay visibility and immediate access to earned wages. Simultaneously, Haul meets the needs of fleet operators who rely on skilled drivers to keep the U.S. supply chain flowing. Drivers are flocking to Haul for the following reasons: Digital first so drivers can apply, check in, and get paid on the same digital app – no more antiquated paperwork. Generous payments and benefits, including instant pay. Scheduling flexibility - assignments that fits the drivers' schedule and preferences. Fleet operators like working with Haul because: Access to a large pool of vetted CDL drivers – today Drivers are pre-vetted, compliant, on-demand and managed. Flexibility to ramp up or ramp down depending on the fleet's needs. Haul handles all of the payroll costs of W2 employees: Taxes, Payroll and Benefits. Haul is becoming the gig economy's payment solution. With features like InstantPay, Haul is rethinking how the new generation of truck drivers want to drive, work and get paid. Learn More About The Haul Story Tim's LinkedIn Haul LinkedIn Haul Facebook Haul Twitter Haul Instagram Haul Tik Tok Haul website 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

Dan McCann and Joe Lynch discuss the Symtrain story. Dan is the CEO & Chief Learning Officer at Symtrain, an advanced AI-based training platform that is unlike any other. About Dan McCann Dan McCann is the Founder and CEO of Symtrain, the maker of immersive learning technology that gives employees real job experience by engaging them in authentic work simulations. Dan is an experienced and dynamic leader. His passion for lifetime learning, growth, and innovation has led him to build symtrain, an SaaS platform which automates the process of role-play and coaching. Symtraining allows employees to apply knowledge, build confidence, and develop skills quickly. About Symtrain Symtrain is an advanced AI-based training platform that is unlike any other. It simulates real-world coaching scenarios to prepare front-line agents for interactions with customers. Much more than a simulation, the platform is an immersive CX training experience that combines audio and visual elements for an all-encompassing approach to training which helps agents to better understand and retain the information. Benefits include improved quality, reduced training time and training resource costs, increased speed to efficiency, and an overall improvement in the key metrics that matter most to clients. Symtrain is emerging as an innovator in AI coaching and virtual training, and was recently awarded two International Stevie Awards for innovation in workforce readiness and corporate learning. Follow our journey at www.symtrain.com. Key Takeaways: The Symtrain Story Dan McCann is the Founder and CEO of Symtrain, a firm that is revolutionizing the way frontline teams are trained and coach. In the podcast interview, Dan and Joe discussed Dan's entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Symtrain. Symtrain is an immersive learning technology platform that gives employees real job experience by engaging them in authentic work simulations. Lean Solutions Group and Symtrain have formed a partnership that enables transportation and logistics companies to use industry specific simulation training modules that were developed by the Lean Solutions Group. Symtrain engages employees in simulated work experiences that feel "real" – working at their own pace, anywhere, anytime, on any device. Employees are empowered to take charge of their own learning and success. As a result, they learn faster, retain more, build confidence, and master the skills they need to deliver the best customer interactions every time. Symtrain is a simulated training solution that creates a hands-on experience for sales, services, and support employees within a safe space By digitalizing the manual training and coaching processes, Symtrain enables companies to build employee attitudes, skills, and knowledge – faster, better, and cheaper. Learn More About The Symtrain Story Dan's LinkedIn Symtraim LinkedIn Symtrain Symtrain Demo with Melanie Flores Selling in Tough Times with Nick Strober and Melanie Flores 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

Bob Rich and Joe Lynch discuss the ROAR Logistics story. Bob is the Founder and President of ROAR Logistics, a based logistics company that delivers world-class service by rail, ocean, air or road. About Bob Rich Bob Rich is the Founder and President of ROAR Logistics, a Buffalo based logistics company that lives up to its name by delivering world-class service by Rail, Ocean, Air or Road (ROAR). Prior to founding ROAR with 3 associates in 2003, Bob held a series of positions with increasing responsibilities at both Rich's (his family's business) and other logistics companies. ROAR has enjoyed rapid growth and now has 8 locations within the USA. Bob gives all the credit to the ROAR team and the culture they have created. Bob earned a BS in Environmental Psychology from St. Lawrence University and an MBA from the Richard J. Wehle School of Business, Canisius College. When he is not busy leading the charge at ROAR, Bob is a family man who has diverse interests including acting, music, and volunteering in the Buffalo community. About ROAR Logistics Founded in 2003, ROAR Logistics entered the transportation industry as an upstart Intermodal Marketing Company (IMC), approaching an old industry with a fresh, innovative attitude. Pioneering a much-needed transformation in transportation services, Founder & President, Bob Rich III, set out with two associates and a vision to change the logistics landscape – placing shippers at the forefront of its mission to build a "World Class" logistics company. October 2018 marked the beginning of ROAR's 15th year in business and, today, the company continues to be recognized as a world-class industry leader in domestic truckload & LTL freight brokerage, intermodal marketing services, international freight forwarding, NVOCC and US-licensed customs brokerage services. Headquartered in Buffalo, New York, ROAR continues to grow successfully, with ten operations throughout the United States and a global network of agents providing comprehensive transportation services in over 150 countries worldwide. ROAR prides itself on delivering an extensive portfolio of award-winning transportation and logistics solutions – whether by Rail, Ocean, Air or Road – to a diverse clientele across a broad spectrum of industries. Key Takeaways: The ROAR Logistics Story Bob Rich is the Founder and President of ROAR Logistics, a Buffalo based logistics company that lives up to its name by delivering world-class service by Rail, Ocean, Air or Road (ROAR). In the podcast interview, Bob and Joe discuss Bob's life, career, and his role as the Founder and President of ROAR Logistics. Bob comes from a family of successful entrepreneurs and Bob grew up working in the family business. Bob started ROAR Logistics in 2003 with Tony Barnes, Beth Grieshober, and Guy Gessner. ROAR's first load booked was a rail shipment and was handled by Tony Barnes. Today ROAR has sales in excess of $315M and 180 associates in 10 offices nationwide. Bob believes that ROAR Logistics success is because of the people and the culture. Click here to see ROAR's Philosophy. Learn More Bob Rich on LinkedIn ROAR Logistics Rich's (Bob's family business) Robert Rich III IMDb (Bob is a musician, actor and film producer on the side) 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

Ben McLean and Joe Lynch discuss the Ruan story. Ben serves as CEO for Ruan Transportation Management Systems, one of the largest privately-held logistics firms in the U.S. About Ben McLean Benjamin McLean serves as CEO for Ruan Transportation Management Systems, one of the largest privately-held logistics firms in the United States. Ben joined Ruan in 2007 and served in a number of corporate and operational roles, including COO and CIO, before assuming his current role in 2015. Prior to joining Ruan, Ben assisted companies with mergers, acquisitions, and equity offerings at William Blair & Company in Chicago and the law firm of Cravath, Swaine & Moore in New York. He was also a systems developer and architect at Deloitte Consulting, where his team developed and implemented enterprise software for multiple clients. Ben was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the Kellogg School of Management and a law degree from Northwestern University School of Law. He earned his undergraduate degree in computer engineering from Northwestern. Ben serves as a board member for UFP Industries and the American Transportation Research Institute, and he is a member of the Northwestern University Transportation Center Business Advisory Committee. Ben is also a member of the Iowa Business Council and served as chair of the organization from 2016 to 2018. Previous board and philanthropic affiliations include United Way of Central Iowa, Orchard Place, and Reaching Higher Iowa. About Ruan Transportation Ruan provides Dedicated Contract Transportation, Managed Transportation, Value-Added Warehousing, and Brokerage Support Services to customers across the U.S. Ruan's Integrated Supply Chain Solutions services encompass all aspects of transportation and logistics, providing our customers the ideal combination of asset- and non-asset-based solutions that get your products from point A to point B safely and efficiently. With more than 90 years of transportation management experience, Ruan is one of the top 10 privately owned transportation companies in the country with 300 operations and 5,000 team members. Key Takeaways: The Ruan Story Ben McLean is the CEO of Ruan Transportation Management Systems, one of country's top 10 privately owned transportation companies. In the podcast interview, Ben shared the Ruan story – a story that started 90 years ago. Ben explains how Ruan's founder, John Ruan created a company and a culture that enabled it grow into one of country's top transportation companies. Over the last 90 years, Ruan has thrived as an industry leader by staying true to their Guiding Principles of People First, Safety Focus, Exceptional Performance, Customer Satisfaction, and Continuous Improvement—all of which were foundational to the company as John Ruan built customer relationships and developed his team during Ruan's early years of growth. The company founder, John Ruan moved his first load of gravel on July 4, 1932. See his story here: About John Ruan Ruan is a family-owned transportation management company, providing Dedicated Contract Transportation, Managed Transportation, and Value-added Warehousing. Their Integrated Supply Chain Solutions combine Ruan's non-asset and asset-based capabilities with optimal technology. Ruan Transportation Management System includes: Dedicated Contract Transportation – With Ruan's Dedicated Contract Transportation, shippers gain a transportation solution that functions as an extension of their supply chain. The tractors and trailers are often branded with the customer's company logo and image. Driver uniforms also reflect the customer's brand. Managed Transportation – Ruan's provides a customized third-party logistics solutions that includes mode selection, carrier management, network optimization, certified brokerage services, and more. Value-Added Warehousing - Ruan offers dedicated, Value-Added Warehousing services that combines the best warehouse management system (WMS) and experienced professionals to create the best experience for their customers. Ruan offers the region's most versatile warehouse space and customized solutions tailored to their customers' requirements. Integrated Supply Chain Solutions – Ruan offers an integrated supply chain solution that is customized to the customer's specific needs. The solution may include a combination of the following services: freight brokerage, dedicated fleets, warehousing services, and contract logistics agreements. Ruan Transportation Management Systems Facts 300+ operations nationwide On-site managers to direct fleets and drivers 5,000 team members, including 4,000 professional drivers Ongoing commitment to quality and process improvement 24/7 customer care from one full-service transportation company Asset- and non-asset-based solutions Proprietary Megasafe Safety Program More facts about Ruan, click here Learn More About The Ruan Story Ruan Transportation LinkedIn Ruan Transportation Successful Bulk Food Transport with Chris Fish The Basics of Dedicated Contract Carriage with Bob Elkins Technology Alone Won't Integrate Your Supply Chain with Paul Jensen Transportation vs Logistics with Marty Wadle The Driver's Perspective with Dean Key The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. 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Ninaad Acharya and Joe Lynch discuss the Fulfillment IQ story. Ninaad is the Co-founder and CEO of Fulfillment IQ, a transformational supply chain solutions provider for companies that dare to disrupt. About Ninaad Acharya Ninaad Acharya is the Co-founder and CEO of Fulfillment IQ, an ecommerce fulfillment product studio that supports brands, retailers, and 3PLs with bespoke solutions. He is passionate about building simple, elegant and highly effective product and commercial strategies. With over 20 years of experience in supply chain digital transformation and technology, Ninaad has successfully led and continues to lead the creation of disruptive technology solutions in Fortune 50 companies, retailers, 3PLs and ecommerce brands. About Fulfillment IQ Fulfillment IQ offers comprehensive ecommerce fulfillment-focused solutions that span strategy, platform build, optimization, scaling, and implementation. With a 100% success rate, Fulfillment IQ has enabled $10B in GMV and supported 50M+ SF of warehouse. The team combines a strong domain knowledge, disciplined engineering mindset, innovative data analytics, AI, and cloud ops with a keen focus on customer experience to build smarter processes, solutions and supply chains. After decades of experience, we've dug deep roots in the supply chain industry through positions in operations, technology, project and product management, solution design, customer support, customer onboarding, and business development. Key Takeaways: The Fulfillment IQ Story Ninaad Acharya is the Co-founder and CEO of Fulfillment IQ, a transformational supply chain solutions provider for companies that dare to disrupt. In the podcast interview, Ninaad and Joe discussed the founding of Fulfillment IQ and Ninaad's entrepreneurial journey. The quote below from Ninaad provides insight into the mission of Fulfillment IQ: "From day one, our goal has been to help businesses realize the full potential of their supply chain with the power of technology solutions that matter. We thrive on building customer-centric, revolutionary digital products - solutions that power more efficient and effective supply chains." Fulfillment IQ provides the following services: FIQ Tech – Custom-built fulfillment platform (end-to-end product development) FIQ Implement – Implementations done right, the first time (consistent, proven results) FIQ Fractional Chief Supply Chain Officer - On-demand access to industry-leading supply chain expertise (World-class supply chain leadership when and where you need it) FIQ Consult - Expert audits, practical strategies, custom roadmaps, and more to find and fix the waste streams in your supply chain Fulfillment IQ serves the following customer segments: Ecommerce merchants Enterprise Customers 3PLs and 4PLs VCs & PEs Learn More About The Fulfillment IQ Story Ninaad's LinkedIn FIQ LinkedIn Fulfillment IQ eCom Logistics Podcast 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