Building a resilient supply chain isn’t just about moving inventory from point A to point B anymore. It’s about embracing inclusion, prioritizing sustainability, and navigating digital transformation strategically. But how do businesses, especially small-to-medium-sized ones, manage such a daunting task?
In episode 20 of Secret Life of Inventory, we sat down with Sarah Barnes-Humphrey, creator and host of Let’s Talk Supply Chain and founder of Blended Pledge, to explore how modern supply chains can thrive through intentional leadership, inclusivity, and innovative thinking.
The power of inclusive supply chain teams
When it comes to building stronger supply chains, giving everyone a seat at the table isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for innovation. Sarah explains that looking at problems from multiple perspectives helps organizations come up with more creative solutions to complex challenges.
“I don’t think that we as an industry or as organizations can really be innovative without multiple different perspectives,” Sarah notes. The key is embracing people holistically and creating space for different points of view, even when they challenge conventional thinking.
For SMBs looking to build more inclusive teams, Sarah’s approach is refreshingly practical. With her team, she’s created a culture built on grace, open communication, and clear boundaries. Her simple rules? Everything is “figure-outable”, try to solve problems before escalating them, and don’t be a jerk. It’s a mantra most of us can agree is pretty simple.
Sarah also notes that the impact of inclusive leadership extends beyond internal process improvements. You need to get your team out there in the community. When team members see themselves represented at industry conferences and events, it shows them what they’re capable of. That’s why Sarah founded Blended Pledge, which provides grants to help underrepresented voices cover travel expenses to attend industry events.
Sustainability: starting small for big impact
Sarah was absolutely floored when she learned that 80% of greenhouse gas emissions come from supply chains. With such a staggering number it’s no surprise the pressure to implement sustainable practices has never been higher. But Sarah’s advice for businesses who want to prioritize sustainability will probably surprise you.
“It’s very important to understand what a sustainable supply chain means to you,” Sarah explains. “Because it means different things to different people.” Rather than trying to tackle everything at once, she recommends identifying one sustainable development goal that aligns with your organization’s core values and focusing your efforts there.
Starting simple and being intentional can make a significant difference. Motion-sensor lighting in warehouses, for example, is a no-brainer that reduces energy consumption without requiring massive infrastructure changes. The key to getting any initiative off the ground is getting C-suite buy-in and identifying champions in the organization that will drive sustainable initiatives forward.
Navigating digital transformation strategically
A major eye-opener in our conversation with Sarah was when we discussed digital transformation. While many organizations focus heavily on technology adoption, she reveals that digital transformation is only 20% technology. The other 80% is implementation.
“You’ve got to get change management right,” Sarah emphasizes. This means having thorough discussions with internal teams, ensuring leadership alignment, and helping employees understand how new technologies will impact their workflows.
The challenge many organizations face is tech stack bloat. Sarah’s advice echoes what she heard from Mary at Fender: “We are completely slowing down to speed up.” Instead of rushing to adopt every new technology, successful organizations map out their processes, prioritize which ones to automate first, and set clear success metrics for each quarter.
The human element in automation
As supply chains become increasingly automated, businesses need to understand the importance of maintaining the human element. Sarah argues that businesses should use automation to free up employees to focus on strategy, rather than routine tasks. In today’s supply chain environment, strategic thinking about tariffs, manufacturing locations, and market shifts requires human insight that technology can’t replace.
The key is transparent communication with your entire team about how automation will change their roles and what that means for them going forward. When done right, automation creates opportunities for creativity and strategic thinking that can give you a competitive edge.
Building the future of supply chain
Sarah’s journey from a family logistics business to a supply chain media pioneer demonstrates the power of authenticity and community-building. Her success stems from being genuine, whether on screen or in person, and creating spaces for meaningful conversations about the industry’s biggest challenges. In a world flooded with AI, most people are thirsty for authentic connections with real people.
For those looking to break into supply chain, her advice is simple: start somewhere, even if it’s not your dream role. The industry offers incredible growth opportunities, and the community is remarkably supportive of newcomers willing to learn and contribute.
The future of supply chain belongs to organizations that can balance technology with a human touch, sustainability with business growth, and operational efficiency with inclusivity. As Sarah puts it, “We all have a role to play”.
Want to hear more insights from Sarah Barnes-Humphrey? Watch the full episode of Secret Life of Inventory to discover her complete methodology for creating inclusive, sustainable, and digitally-savvy supply chain operations.
0 Comments