Something To Say

  Lunch with an Old Friend and a Bowl of Chicken Soup. I was fortunate to have recently had a long-overdue lunch with a former colleague and dear friend. I had scheduled our lunch for an hour and a half, but before we knew it, three hours had passed. We only stopped because the restaurant was closing! It served as a perfect reminder of why friendship matters. In these ever-changing times, we all need stability and familiarity, which brings us back to ourselves. That lunch was just that for me: a warm, comforting moment filled with laughter, shared memories, and a delicious bowl of chicken soup. So, consider this a sign: call an old friend, schedule a long lunch, and let the conversation flow. You might find that time slows down in the best way possible.

By Gregory L. DeShields It is time to step out of my bubble! I am ready to gain new perspectives, learn from different experiences, broaden my understanding of our new world, expose myself to diverse viewpoints, and develop greater adaptability and resilience when facing new challenges and uncertainties. For a time, living in my bubble provided a safe sanctuary from the uncertainty and stress that surrounded us, especially after an intense political season and the societal changes that followed. This bubble offered comfort and an opportunity to process and reflect. However, the reality is now clear: it’s time to step out, reconnect, and engage with the world again. I need to figure out how to contribute and make a meaningful impact. Emerging from a bubble isn’t easy. Whether you’ve been checked out due to stress, burnout, or simply needing a break from uncertainty, transitioning back to active engagement can feel daunting. Yet, it’s also an opportunity for growth, renewed focus, and pe...

  The Manufacturing Partnering Group (MPG) has long promoted innovation and collaboration across the global supply chain. With the launch of the MPG Club & Events Division, led by Greg DeShields, the Global Director of Club and Events, the organization is taking a significant step forward. This will create dynamic resources that enhance MPG's mission and deliver exceptional value to its members and the industry. The MPG Club and Events' mission is to create a dynamic and inclusive global network for manufacturers, distributors, and service providers in the supply chain industry. This division facilitates meaningful connections, promotes knowledge sharing, and encourages collaboration. Events empower participants to navigate industry changes, adapt to emerging trends, and build invaluable business relationships. The vision for this division is to serve as a central hub for collaboration, education, and networking, enabling members to thrive professionally and personall...

  Something To Say Podcast We are thrilled to announce that Season 2 of the Something to Say podcast will launch in April 2025! After an incredible first season filled with insightful conversations, heartfelt stories, and thought-provoking discussions, we’re back and ready to bring you even more. This season promises to elevate the energy, broaden our perspectives, and dive deeper into the conversations that matter most to our listeners. Big News: New Partnerships & Recognitions What makes Season 2 even more remarkable is our collaboration with some fantastic platforms and organizations that are helping us amplify our voices: Alive Podcast Network We’re honored to be affiliated with the Alive Podcast Network, which celebrates diverse voices in podcasting. Through their support, we’re connecting with a broader audience and joining a community of creators committed to storytelling that resonates. RSS.com We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with RSS.com , one of the most t...

  By Greg DeShields The Class of 2024 is about toa transition from academic life to the professional world, and leadership is more critical than ever. After four years of dealing with the challenges of COVID-19, this year's graduates are entering the workforce. Traditional leadership models are being reevaluated in a world of uncertainty, rapid change, and complex challenges. Welcoming this class will require Compassionate Leadership , a leadership skill that combines empathy. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "To manage yourself, use your head; to manage others, use your heart." Compassionate leaders lead and manage with both their head and their heart.   In these changing times, Compassionate Leadership has the potential to inspire and motivate the Class of 2024. High hopes and expectations for employees can only work if they are based on trust and authentic care for your team, both inside and outside of work. For new graduates, embracing this leadership style is not ju...

  Supply Chains are involved in almost every industry and everything we do, from the food we eat to the clothes we wear. As business professionals and supply chain managers, we can unlock significant competitive advantages by simplifying supply chain operations and integrating procurement efficiency. But it's not just about efficiency- it's also about the crucial role of empowering supplier diversity in our operations. This adds value and fosters a sense of inclusivity and empowerment in our business relationships. According to Meredith Flora, Content Marketing Specialist at ShipBob, every business has its measurements for tracking supply chain performance. However, the five most common measures are perfect order rate, supply chain costs, order fill rate, cash-to-cash cycle time, and inventory turnover. Managing a supply chain can seem like navigating a maze in today's fast-paced and highly interconnected business world. Complex networks of suppliers, stringent procurement...