Port Chaos, Tech Tension, and Tariff Drama with The Maritime Professor

Everything is Logistics

Why does it feel like U.S. ports are stuck in the past while the rest of the world is fully automated?

This episode with Lauren Beagen—lawyer, founder of The Maritime Professor®, and host of By Land and By Sea—dives into why maritime regulations matter, what tech labor negotiations are really about, and how tariffs are a lot more about vibes than rules.
From dock safety to global competitiveness, we explore the big-picture forces shaping the future of port operations and maritime shipping.
Key takeaways:
• 93% of ports globally are not fully automated, despite the narrative.
• The FMC’s role is flag-neutral but laser-focused on protecting U.S. importers and exporters.
• Tariffs are less about policy and more about political posturing.
• Diversifying ports of entry is critical—but not always feasible due to specialized infrastructure needs.
• Labor/tech tensions stem from generational divides, safety, and global competitiveness.

LINKS:

• Lauren's LinkedIn
• The Maritime Profession X
• The Maritime Professor Website
• Squall Strategies Website
  

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE HERE

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Chapters

1. Port Chaos, Tech Tension, and Tariff Drama with The Maritime Professor (00:00:00)

2. Why Only 7% of Ports Are Automated (00:07:12)

3. Labor, Safety, and Generational Divide (00:16:41)

4. The FMC’s Real Role in U.S. Trade (00:24:34)

5. How Tariffs Became Political Theater (00:35:10)

6. The Challenge of Port Diversification (00:45:28)

7. Why Maritime Policy Impacts Every Mode (00:54:02)