AI, tariffs, and trust-driven partnerships in sustainable supply chains with Dr. Robert Handfield and Ben Barras

Supply chain leaders are under pressure to cut costs, adopt AI, and prove their ESG commitments—all without breaking the trust of partners or consumers. In this episode, Dr. Robert Handfield and Ben Barras join Russ Shumaker to unpack how AI can realistically support planning and decision-making (not just headcount reduction), why tariff stress-testing and scenario planning matter more than ever, and how brands can turn surplus and returns into meaningful impact through reverse logistics partnerships with nonprofits like World Vision. The conversation dives into ethical apparel, transparency, and what it takes to build long-term, trust-driven relationships across the supply chain—from manufacturers and 3PLs to NGOs serving people at the very end of the value chain.