On this episode of Everything is Logistics, host Blythe Brumlve welcomes Martin Lew, CEO of Commtrex, to discuss the future of rail logistics. Martin's background as a former commodity trader at JP Morgan gives insight into the relationship between logistics and finance due to his experience trading physical and financial coal and navigating cap and trade programs with clients. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the rail industry, from infrastructure investments to technology advancements and the importance of collaboration between logistics and finance professionals.LINKS: Martin Lew on TwitterCommtrex websiteCommtrex educational hubTIMESTAMPS: [02:10] Inefficiency in railroad industry.[00:04:54] Rail Transportation Marketplace.[00:06:49] Largest shippers reject marketplace.[00:09:52] Future of rail freight.[00:13:25] Rail transportation and misconceptions.[00:17:05] Reducing carbon footprint through rail.[00:21:23] Volatility in ocean freight.[00:23:48] Starting a railroad company.[00:28:03] Shipping by rail basics.[00:30:18] Shipping in Mexico.[00:35:45] Translating in supply chain.[00:39:36] Future of rail logistics.[00:40:31] Railroads converting truck lanes.[00:44:26] Rail transportation evolving with data.[00:49:28] Autonomous rail technology.[00:53:06] Auto co-pilot for rail.[00:55:31] Rail industry sustainability efforts.[00:57:42] Sustainable locomotive technology.Feedback? Ideas for a future episode? Shoot us a text here to let us know.-----------------------------------------THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! SPI Logistics has been a Day 1 supporter of this podcast which is why we're proud to promote them in every episode. During that time, we've gotten to know the team and their agents to confidently say they are the best home for freight agents in North America for 40 years and counting. Listen to past episodes to hear why. CargoRex is the search engine for the logistics industry—connecting LSPs with the right tools, services, events, and creators to explore, discover, and evolve. Digital Dispatch manages and maximizes your #1 sales tool with a website that establishes trust and builds rock-solid relationships with your leads and customers.