Laura Duke

a16z Podcast | Where's My Stuff? -- The Lowdown on Logistics and Ops

Jeff Jordan, Michael Copeland, Mike Smith, Laura Duke, Mike Swartz, Dwight Gaston

Executives from Stitch Fix, Zazzle, and Julep detail how high-growth startups navigate complex operational models, from managing unique reverse logistics at scale to balancing custom production with rapid inventory turnover. These leaders discuss the critical challenges of transitioning from enterprise hierarchies to flat structures, emphasizing the need to redefine success through daily improvement rather than static industry benchmarks. The session further explores strategic decisions regarding custom technology development, security protocols, and the shifting role of operations as a primary revenue driver in an era of hyper-personalization.