In this episode of Never in Reverse, hosts Jeremy Axel and Doug Cox explore the real-world challenges and breakthroughs shaping today’s supply chains. From the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to the ripple effects of global tariff wars, they share how businesses can stay agile and thrive through uncertainty.

They discuss the value of building diverse partnerships and why proactive risk management matters now more than ever. Jeremy and Doug also highlight how data, automation, and transparent vendor relationships, including on-site visits and due diligence, help companies build supply chains that are stronger and more adaptable.

Full of practical advice and honest insights, this episode shows how every disruption can become a chance to grow and innovate.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Overview of the episode’s focus: real-world supply chain crises, ignored red flags, and innovations turning bottlenecks into breakthrough

(00:01:14) Personal Experiences and COVID-19 Lessons

Hosts share personal stories from COVID-19, highlighting vulnerabilities like single-source dependencies and lack of diversification

(00:03:55) Impact of Tariff Wars and Ongoing Supply Chain Struggles

Discussion of recent tariff wars, ongoing supply chain pressures, and the importance of supplier diversification.

(00:06:43) Risks of Single-Source and Specialized Vendors

Exploring challenges with unique, patented, or single-source components and the pain of limited vendor options.

(00:09:10) Leveraging Data and Automation in Supply Chains

How historical data and automation can improve purchasing decisions, planning, and vendor communication.

(00:10:13) Proactive Vendor Communication and Planning

Emphasizing the need for proactive engagement with suppliers and learning from past disruptions.

(00:10:36) Vendor Relationships and the Importance of Diversification

The value of strong vendor relationships, diversification, and learning from chip shortages in automotive supply chains.

(00:12:34) Automating and Structuring Supply Chain Data

Benefits of automating data, creating unified systems, and supporting both urgent and planned customer needs.

(00:15:38) Understanding Vendor Vulnerabilities and Customer Impact

Encouraging open conversations with vendors about their constraints to better serve customers and avoid losing business.

(00:16:43) Site Visits and Vendor Validation

The importance of on-site vendor visits, looking beyond marketing, and validating capabilities before committing.

(00:19:24) Building Trust and Avoiding Marketing Traps

Why direct references and transparency matter more than flashy marketing or case studies in vendor selection.

(00:23:11) Final Takeaways: Diversification, Validation, and Seamless Partnerships

Key advice: diversity suppliers, validate vendors, automate data, and build seamless, trustworthy supply chain partnerships.

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