Kev Talks - REAL World Global Logistics

In this episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, Anna McGovern—CEO of Pondview Consulting and author of "Antifragile Supply Chains"—joins us to discuss building supply chains that thrive under pressure. Anna shares insights from her career leading global teams at Unilever and the launch of her new book, which offers a roadmap for making supply chains more resilient, adaptable, and strategically agile. From lever...

In this episode, Jason Cook (CEO) and Paul Diedrich (VP of Customs & Compliance) from Ardent Global Logistics join Kev Talks to unpack how importers are adapting to rising tariffs, evolving trade policy, and compliance crackdowns. They dive into smart strategies like tariff engineering, reclassification, and the use of FTZs/bonded warehouses to manage risk and improve cash flow.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. Tariff Engineering: Importers...

In this insightful bonus episode, co-hosts Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins welcome Peter Sand, Chief Analyst at Xeneta, for a deep dive into the volatile state of global container shipping as we enter Q2 2025.

Peter brings a data-driven perspective paired with real-world wisdom to explain what’s happening behind the scenes in ocean freight markets. He unpacks the latest Xeneta rate movements, blank sailing trends, and the shifting...

In this episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, Kevin Higgins and Kevin Parkerson welcome Paul Gatling, a former business journalist and current Senior Director of Northwest Arkansas Engagement at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA). Paul shares his career journey from storytelling in journalism to storytelling in university advancement, where he's now focused on strengthening UCA’s presence and partnerships acr...

In this episode, Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins sit down with veteran logistics leader John Esborn to explore what it really means to build strategic logistics partnerships. Drawing on decades of experience across both shipper and provider roles, John shares hard-won insights into cost efficiency, trade policy, and the value of curiosity in driving innovation.

From cutting parcel costs by 43% to turning air freight into ocean sav...

In this episode, Kevin Parkerson & Kevin Higgins chat with Bertrand Chen about the game-changing role of blockchain in global shipping and the road to eBL adoption. Bertrand shares his journey from Wall Street to supply chain tech, offering insights on:

✅ Blockchain’s Impact on Shipping: Enhancing security and streamlining trade documentation.

✅ Lessons from TradeLens: What worked, what didn’t, and how GSBN is driving eBL adoptio...

In this episode, co-hosts Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins are joined by Jeff Pulver, a pioneer in internet communications and co-founder of Vonage. Jeff reflects on his groundbreaking work in Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) and shares insights into how AI and blockchain are transforming global supply chains. He discusses the role of these technologies in improving transparency, trust, and data accuracy, as well as their poten...

In this special episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, we sit down with maritime industry legend Adrian Pinna, who has spent over 30 years at OOCL. Recorded live at TPM25, The Kevins and Adrian dive deep into the evolution of the conference, the transformation of the shipping industry, and the regulatory shifts that have shaped global trade over the past 25 years.

Adrian shares how relationships have been the foundation ...

Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics: Aaron Kolosik – Founder of Unstuck Master Plan

In this insightful episode, co-hosts Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins sit down with Aaron Kolosik, a seasoned leader with a career spanning Procter & Gamble and Central Garden & Pet. Aaron shares his remarkable journey—from growing up in small-town Iowa to leading global supply chain transformations—and how personal experiences shaped his...

In this special TPM25 series episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, co-hosts Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins sit down with Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer of the Port of Long Beach. Dr. Hacegaba shares his insights on global logistics trends, the impact of mega-ships, infrastructure investments, and the importance of fostering the next generation of supply chain professionals.

Key Topics Covered:

✅ The Value ...

In Episode 19, co-hosts Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins deliver an unfiltered breakdown of key global supply chain trends:

• Amazon vs. Walmart: How Amazon’s bold logistics investments and former Walmart talent helped it surpass Walmart in quarterly sales.
• Proposed Fees on Chinese-Built Ships: Potential fees of up to $1.5m per port call for Chinese-built vessels and its impact on U.S. shippers and national security.
• ILA Contra...

In this episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, hosts Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins sit down with Mike Robinson, a seasoned retail executive, board member, and startup advisor with over 30 years of experience in consumer products, digital transformation, and logistics.

Mike shares key insights from his career, including how he helped scale Macy’s online business from $700M to $7B, and his ongoing efforts to optimi...

In this episode, we speak with Jim Tompkins, chairman of Tompkins Ventures and a legendary figure in supply chain and logistics. With over five decades of experience, Jim shares his insights on designing end-to-end supply chains, the impact of tariffs, the rise of "friend-shoring", and the importance of technology in building resilient supply chains. He also discusses the evolving global trade landscape, including policy ...

In Episode #16 of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, we sit down with Lynn Wong—former global logistics leader turned executive well-being coach. Lynn’s career spans Maersk, The Home Depot, Walmart, and NYSHEX, but her journey didn’t stop there. She’s now helping high-achieving professionals navigate burnout, career transitions, and leadership challenges with a focus on holistic well-being.

Key Takeaways from this episode:
...

In this episode, Kevin Parkerson and Kevin Higgins are joined by John Wolfe, CEO of the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA).

John discusses the unification of the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma, driving operational efficiencies and economic growth through collaboration and partnerships. He explores the role of automation and AI in port operations, highlighting NWSA's use of AI to streamline rail logistics and improve supply chain c...

Amy Barnes, Founder & Chief Heart Officer, Eleven-B Consulting

In this episode, Amy Barnes shares her inspiring journey from an administrative assistant to leading multi-billion dollar logistics operations and launching her own consulting firm. Amy dives into heart-based leadership, career growth, and the challenges of transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways:

• The power of mentorship and leadership wit...

In this special episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, Kevin Higgins takes the lead, welcoming a very special guest: his mom, Kathy Mosley. With Kevin Parkerson stepping back due to his superstition around the number 13, Kevin and Kathy dive deep into their family's rich history in transportation and logistics.

Kathy shares anecdotes from Kevin's early years, touching on his surprising career path—from dreams of...

In this episode of Kev Talks: Real World Global Logistics, hosts Kevin Higgins and Kevin Parkerson sit down with Jim Newsome, former CEO of the South Carolina Port Authority. Drawing from decades of experience, Jim offers a candid and insightful perspective on U.S. port operations, automation, global competitiveness, and the broader maritime landscape. With an eye toward the future, he provides actionable recommendations for policy...

In the first episode of 2025, co-hosts Kevin Higgins and Kevin Parkerson kick off the new year with reflections on 2024 and a forward-looking discussion on the logistics landscape for the year ahead. The duo covers a range of topics, including surprises and disruptions that defined the past year and the resilience demonstrated across the global supply chain.

Key Highlights:

1. Reflections on 2024:

2. A year marked by constant dis...