Trucking for Millennials: Recent Episodes
PDQ America
On the Trucking for Millennials podcast we discuss what's happening within our industry today and discover how the next generation of trucking and logistics professionals are impacting the supply chain.
Expect weekly topical discussions, expert interviews, and real stories from the people moving and managing freight across the country as Michael Clements, Aaron Dunn, and the rest of the PDQ America team engage with the future of freight happening now.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Brandon Wiseman, an expert in transportation law and compliance. Brandon shared his insights from the Truck Safe Live podcast and discussed key regulatory trends in the trucking industry. We covered a range of important topics including highway safety, personal conveyance, the truck parking crisis, tort law reform, ELDs, and speed limiters.
We kicked off the episode by reflecting on the recent election results and their potential impact on the trucking industry. With Donald Trump winning the presidency and the Republicans holding the House and Senate, we speculated on possible regulatory changes and what they could mean for logistics businesses.
Brandon provided a deep dive into the importance of staying compliant with DOT safety regulations, especially for new motor carriers. He emphasized the severe consequences of non-compliance, including hefty fines and potential shutdowns. We also discussed the critical issue of highway accident exposure and the rising trend of nuclear verdicts against trucking companies.
One of the most engaging parts of our conversation was about personal conveyance, a gray area in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Brandon explained the complexities and the potential for misuse, advising fleets to either turn off the option or implement strict controls.
We also touched on the truck parking shortage, a significant issue for drivers that impacts their ability to comply with hours of service regulations. Brandon highlighted the efforts being made to address this problem, including grant money awarded to states by the USDOT.
Finally, we looked ahead to the new administration and what it might mean for trucking regulations. Brandon shared his thoughts on the potential for fewer new regulations and a focus on reviewing existing ones, drawing parallels to the previous Trump administration's approach.
Overall, this episode was packed with valuable insights for anyone in the trucking industry, from drivers to fleet managers. Brandon's expertise provided a comprehensive look at the current regulatory landscape and what we might expect in the near future.
In this episode we had the pleasure of speaking with Chuck Kuzniewski, the Senior Vice President of Talent and Culture at BMAC Logistics. Chuck's journey is truly inspiring, transitioning from a career in sports announcing and wrestling promotion to a leadership role in the logistics industry.
We kicked off the episode discussing a recent article about a traffic crackdown in the Permian Basin, where Texas troopers apprehended 853 truckers and motorists over a three-day period. This led to a conversation about the importance of safety in trucking and the implications of upcoming elections on the logistics sector.
Chuck shared his unique background, including his passion for professional wrestling and sports announcing, which he pursued from a young age. His love for sports and entertainment eventually led him to work with the Harlem Ambassadors basketball team, where he traveled the world and gained invaluable experience.
As we delved deeper into Chuck's current role at BEEMAC Logistics, he emphasized the importance of a people-first culture and how he encourages others to pursue their talents. He shared insights on building effective teams, highlighting the significance of collaboration and support among colleagues. Chuck's philosophy centers around the idea that individual success is tied to the success of the team, and he believes in the power of "yes, and" from his improv experience to foster a positive work environment.
Overall, this episode is a testament to the idea that pursuing your passions and embracing opportunities can lead to fulfilling careers, even in unexpected fields like trucking.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming LaShawn Brown, an independent freight agent. LaShawn shared his journey from corporate America to the trucking industry, highlighting his experiences as a driver trainer and his passion for helping new CDL drivers succeed.
We discussed the challenges new drivers face when starting their careers, including the importance of professionalism and the need for effective communication between drivers, brokers, and shippers. LaShawn emphasized the significance of empathy in our interactions, especially when dealing with the stresses of the road.
Throughout our conversation, we touched on the misconceptions that drivers often have about brokers, particularly the belief that brokers are pocketing all the money. LaShawn shared his insights on the realities of the industry, including the importance of transparency and fairness in our dealings with both drivers and customers.
We also explored the complexities of load tracking, detention times, and the need for brokers to maintain strong relationships with carriers while ensuring customer satisfaction. LaShawn's experiences and advice provided valuable perspectives on navigating the logistics landscape, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the trucking and logistics industry.
As we approach the busy holiday season, we hope our listeners take away the importance of communication, professionalism, and understanding in fostering better relationships within the industry. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to bringing you more insightful discussions in future episodes!
In this episode of Trucking for Millennials, we had the pleasure of revisiting one of our very first episodes - in which we talked with David Abell, who was the Managing Director of AMT Squirrel Works. Listening to this episode, we hope you reflect on the changes in the trucking industry and our lives since then, as we re-explore the relevance of our past discussions on marketing, freight brokering, and leadership.
David shares his journey from a military background to the transportation industry, highlighting how his experiences shaped his work ethic and understanding of logistics. We dive into the importance of company culture when choosing a freight brokerage, emphasizing the need for a supportive and enjoyable work environment.
We also discuss the significance of personal development in the industry, with David advocating for continuous learning through reading and leveraging resources like LinkedIn. He stresses the importance of having a professional online presence, particularly for owner-operators and freight brokerages, and how a well-maintained website can enhance credibility and attract talent.
As we wrap up, David offers insights into the evolving landscape of digital marketing in transportation, encouraging companies to focus on their niche and build strong relationships within the industry. This episode serves as a valuable reminder of the foundational principles that continue to apply in our ever-changing world.
Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and extract timeless lessons that can still be applied to our businesses today!
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of welcoming back Lida Hakobyan, an inspiring entrepreneur in the logistics industry. Lida's journey from Armenia to the United States in 2016, and her subsequent rise in the trucking and freight brokering business, is nothing short of remarkable.
We began the episode by acknowledging the recent natural disasters affecting various parts of the United States, including hurricanes and wildfires. Our thoughts are with those impacted, and we hope for their safety and recovery.
Lida shared her story of moving to the U.S., earning her CDL, and starting her career as a truck driver. She recounted the challenges she faced, from learning the terminology to navigating narrow roads with a 53-foot trailer. Despite these hurdles, Lida's determination and hard work paid off, allowing her to transition into freight brokering and eventually founding her own company, Freight Freedom.
Throughout our conversation, Lida emphasized the importance of perseverance, optimism, and leveraging one's strengths. She discussed the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry and how her experience behind the wheel has given her a unique perspective and empathy for truck drivers.
Lida also highlighted the significance of building relationships with both customers and carriers, and how her multilingual skills have been an asset in her business. She shared insights into the issues of double brokering and the importance of thorough vetting and communication to avoid such pitfalls.
In addition to her freight brokering business, Lida has created educational resources and courses to help others succeed in the logistics industry. Her Freight Freedom Club offers a wealth of knowledge, from logistics terminology to sales scripts, and provides a supportive community for aspiring freight brokers.
Lida's story is a testament to the opportunities available in the United States and the power of hard work and dedication. Her positive outlook and commitment to helping others make her a true inspiration in the logistics industry.
In this episode of the Trucking For Millennials podcast, we welcome back former guest Robert Bain, the Strongest Man in Logistics, to catch up and continue our conversation about the current state of the trucking industry in the midst of the seaport strike and the upcoming elections. Edit: UPDATED WITH CORRECT AUDIO
On this episode of the Trucking For Millennials Podcast, we sit down with Justin Martin to talk about the current state of trucking, the impact of Hurricane Helene and the Seaport Strike, as well as the effect of this year's election on the trucking industry.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of welcoming Casey Jenkins, a seasoned professional in supply chain management with over a decade of experience. We dove deep into the intricacies of supply chain management, discussing its relevance to brokerages, trucking companies, and shippers.
Casey shared her impressive background, including her dual master's degrees in supply chain management and project management, as well as her ongoing pursuit of a doctorate in business administration. We explored her journey from aspiring meteorologist to a key player in the logistics and supply chain industry, highlighting how her diverse experiences shaped her understanding of the field.
Throughout our conversation, we emphasized the importance of understanding one's position within the supply chain and how that can impact service delivery and customer relationships. Casey pointed out that supply chain management encompasses much more than just transportation; it includes procurement, manufacturing, distribution, and customer service, all of which are interconnected.
We also discussed the evolving landscape of supply chain management, particularly the growing emphasis on risk management in light of current economic and political factors. Casey provided valuable insights into how businesses can improve their operations by asking thought-provoking questions and seeking collaboration.
This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone in the logistics and supply chain space, especially those in small businesses looking to enhance their processes and service offerings. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of supply chain dynamics and discover how to position your business for success in this ever-changing industry.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we celebrate Truck Driver Appreciation Week with a special guest, Jasen Beshears, who has an impressive 25-year career in the trucking industry. Jasen shares his journey from being a prison guard to becoming a truck driver, highlighting the various jobs he held before finding his passion on the road.
We dive into the challenges that new drivers face, including the rigorous process of obtaining a CDL and the importance of pre-trip inspections. Jasen reflects on his early days in the industry, discussing the emotional rollercoaster of being homesick and the learning curve of navigating without modern GPS technology. He shares fascinating stories from his experiences, including the realities of team driving and the camaraderie that develops among drivers.
Health and well-being are significant themes in our conversation, as Jasen emphasizes the importance of making good decisions for longevity in the trucking profession. He candidly discusses his own struggles with health and the need for drivers to prioritize their well-being amidst the demands of the job.
As we explore Jasen's career trajectory, he recounts his experiences with various companies, the ups and downs of team driving, and the lessons learned from starting his own hotshot business. He offers valuable insights into the importance of diversifying business opportunities and making informed decisions in a challenging industry.
This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and a heartfelt appreciation for the hard work and dedication of truck drivers. Join us as we celebrate the vital role that truck drivers play in keeping our country moving and the importance of recognizing their contributions.
Welcome to the new era of Trucking For Millennials.
In this episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Matt Perkins, a seasoned professional in the logistics and sales industry. We covered a wide range of topics crucial to the trucking and logistics community, focusing on the current state of freight rates, market dynamics, and the potential impact of the upcoming election on the industry.
Key Discussion Points: 1. Freight Rates and Market Conditions: 2. Matt shared his insights on the current depressed state of the freight market, comparing it to previous downturns in 2000-2003 and 2008. 3. We discussed the unpredictability of the market and how it has shifted from predictable waves to erratic spikes, making it challenging for brokers and carriers alike. 4. Impact of Larger Brokerages and Trucking Companies: 5. We explored whether larger brokerages and trucking companies are squeezing out smaller players by manipulating rates. 6. Matt emphasized that while larger entities have significant influence, the market is still competitive, and smaller brokers can thrive with the right strategies. 7. Role of Technology and Training: 8. The conversation highlighted the importance of technology in leveling the playing field for smaller brokers. 9. Matt stressed the need for good training and consistent customer service to differentiate oneself in a saturated market. 10. Sales Strategies and Customer Relationships: 11. Matt shared his focus on sales and the importance of leveraging networks and maintaining consistent customer interactions. 12. We discussed the long sales cycles in the current market and the necessity of persistence and genuine care in building lasting customer relationships. 13. Future Outlook and Election Impact: 14. We speculated on the potential changes in the freight market post-election and whether a new administration could lead to a market uptick. 15. The discussion also touched on the broader economic factors influencing the industry and the need for businesses to stay adaptable.
Overall, this episode provided valuable insights into navigating the complexities of the freight market, the importance of technology and training, and effective sales strategies. Matt's expertise and practical advice are sure to benefit anyone in the trucking and logistics industry. Make sure to check out the video podcast on our YouTube Channel! Also don't forget to give us a follow on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin, Tiktok, and X @PDQAmerica
Welcome to another exciting episode of Trucking for Millennials, where we dive into the future of freight and the evolving landscape of the trucking and logistics industry. We open the show with a big announcement about the future of the Trucking For Millennials Podcast, followed by our interview with our guest, TruckingWithTay. TruckingWithTay is a popular figure in the trucking industry with a massive following on YouTube and Instagram. Tay has nearly 100,000 subscribers on YouTube and over 13,000 followers on Instagram. His engaging personality, dedication to his family, and serious yet fun approach to his business have made him a beloved figure in the community.
Episode Highlights Tay's Journey into Trucking Tay shares his journey from being a salesman for Pepsi to becoming a truck driver. He talks about the long hours and limited growth opportunities at Pepsi, which led him to explore trucking as a career. Starting with Maverick Transportation, Tay quickly transitioned to becoming an owner-operator, a role he has embraced despite its challenges.
The Challenges and Rewards of Being an Owner-Operator Tay discusses the ups and downs of being an owner-operator, including the financial uncertainties and the need for money management. He shares a personal story about investing heavily in the stock market and crypto, which led to significant losses. Tay emphasizes the importance of reinvesting in oneself and making smart financial decisions.
Family and Work-Life Balance Balancing work and family life is a recurring theme in this episode. Tay talks about the importance of making the most of the time he spends with his family, especially his two daughters. He shares tips on staying connected with his family while on the road, such as using FaceTime and making quality time count when he's home.
Defining Success Tay offers his perspective on success, which he defines as growth and the ability to look back and see how far you've come. He stresses that success is not just about financial gains but also about personal fulfillment and family happiness.
Future Aspirations Looking ahead, Tay expresses his desire to transition to a role that allows him to spend more time at home. He envisions moving into a position behind a desk or taking on local work to be closer to his family.
Final Thoughts This episode is a testament to Tay's resilience, optimism, and dedication to his family and career. His journey offers valuable insights for anyone in the trucking industry, whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your business.
Thank you for tuning in to Trucking for Millennials. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and let us know your thoughts. Stay subscribed for more inspiring stories and industry insights. Until next time, keep trucking!
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we dive deep into the benefits and implementation of dash cams in the trucking industry.
Our guest, Josh Lovan from J. J. Keller, brings a wealth of experience to the table. He shares his insights on why dash cams are crucial for carriers, emphasizing that they not only help in eliminating accidents but also provide invaluable evidence that can save time and money in court. Josh explains that 70% of accidents involving trucks are not the truck driver's fault, and having video evidence can immediately negate false claims, thus protecting both the driver and the company.
We also explore the technology behind these dash cams, including AI features that can detect events like rolling through stop signs. Josh highlights the importance of using these videos for coaching rather than discipline, to improve driver safety and performance. He shares his experience in implementing a dash cam system at his previous company, where transparency and focusing on illegal activities like cell phone use and not wearing seatbelts helped gain driver buy-in.
The episode also touches on the broader implications of dash cams beyond just trucking, noting that they can be beneficial for any fleet, including hotshot drivers and work trucks in the oil and gas industry. We wrap up with a discussion on the return on investment for carriers, with statistics showing that fleets using dash cams see lower legal fees and reduced risk of litigation.
Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how dash cams can transform safety and efficiency in the trucking industry, making it a must-listen for anyone involved in fleet management. Any information provided by J. J. Keller's in-house transportation expert during the segment is intended to lend technical knowledge. J. J. Keller does not provide legal, accounting, or regulatory advice and does not warrant that every statement made by the in-house transportation expert is accurate.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we dive deep into the world of logistics and freight brokerage with our special guest, Thomas Werdine from ThinkFreight.io. Thomas shares his extensive experience in the industry, providing valuable insights for both brokers and carriers.
Key Highlights: Understanding Broker-Carrier Relationships Thomas emphasizes that not all brokers are bad and many genuinely care about their carriers, sometimes even more than their shipper relationships. He explains the importance of treating carriers well, paying fair detention rates, and maintaining strong relationships to ensure smooth operations.
Career Journey Thomas takes us through his career journey, starting from his early days in the automotive industry as a Corvette specialist to his transition into logistics. He shares his experiences working at TQL, a major brokerage, and later at a startup brokerage, Full Sail. His insights into the differences between large and small brokerages are particularly enlightening.
Training and Onboarding at TQL Thomas provides an inside look at the training and onboarding process at TQL, highlighting their in-depth training modules and hands-on experience. He discusses the importance of learning from experienced brokers and the structured approach that helped him succeed in the industry.
Advice for New Brokers For those contemplating a career in logistics, Thomas offers advice on choosing the right brokerage. He suggests looking for companies with good training programs and avoiding those with restrictive non-compete clauses.
Niche Opportunities in Freight Thomas identifies niche opportunities in the freight industry, such as power-only and reefer LTL produce. He explains the challenges and benefits of these niches and why they present significant opportunities for brokers willing to specialize.
The Role of Social Media Thomas underscores the importance of social media for carriers, advising them to use platforms like LinkedIn to build credibility and showcase their operations. He shares tips on how carriers can differentiate themselves and build trust with brokers.
Transition to Freight Tech Thomas talks about his transition from traditional brokerage roles to the tech side of the industry at FreightWaves. He shares his experience selling Sonar, a tech product, and how it differed from his previous roles.
Launching ThinkFreight.io Finally, Thomas discusses his decision to launch ThinkFreight.io, a newsletter that provides valuable insights and summaries of freight industry news. He explains the motivation behind starting the newsletter and how it aims to help industry professionals stay informed without getting overwhelmed by information.
This episode is packed with practical advice and insider knowledge, making it a must-listen for anyone in the logistics and freight industry.
Welcome back to another episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast! Today, we kicked things off by discussing the logistics of a coast-to-coast load moving from Florida to California. We speculated on whether the route would go through I-20 or I-10 and highlighted the importance of tracking technology for such long hauls.
Next, we delved into the logistics of the ongoing Olympics in Paris. We marveled at the sheer scale of the operation, from managing 170,000 pallets to handling 60,000 pieces of luggage and 1.3 million items of furniture.
We then shifted gears to discuss the political landscape, focusing on Kamala Harris's VP pick, Governor Tim Walz. We reviewed his history with trucking-related legislation, including his efforts to allow VA physicians to perform DOT physicals, attempts to repeal the federal excise tax on trucks, and his involvement in the Vision Zero Act. We also compared his impact on the trucking industry to that of Donald Trump's VP pick, J.D. Vance, noting the differences in their approaches and legislative successes.
In the latter part of the episode, we analyzed the 2024 Inbound Logistics 3PL Perspectives Report. We discussed the top issues shippers face, the reasons for failed 3PL partnerships, and the ongoing debate between prioritizing price versus service. We also shared our thoughts on whether shippers should partner with one or more 3PLs, emphasizing the importance of building strong, like-minded relationships in the logistics industry.
To wrap up, we reflected on the complexities and challenges of the logistics business, highlighting the need for resilience and adaptability.
In this episode, we dive into the world of truck driving and recruitment with our special guest, Kameel Gaines, founder and CEO of Rig on Wheels Broker and Recruitment Services.
Kameel shares her journey into the trucking world, starting from her living room in Chicago to building a successful recruitment business in Houston. She emphasizes the importance of treating truck drivers with respect and advocating for their needs, drawing from her personal experiences and family background in trucking.
We also discuss the current state of the trucking industry, touching on the economic outlook and the evolving expectations for professional truck drivers. Kameel stresses the need for continuous education and staying motivated, especially in challenging times.
The conversation takes a deeper dive into the role of younger generations in trucking, the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the barriers that still exist for young drivers. Kameel calls for more serious and genuine efforts to integrate young people into the industry, rather than token gestures.
Finally, we highlight Kameel's work with the Rig on Wheels show, where she focuses on recruitment and retention in the trucking industry, providing valuable resources and insights for both drivers and companies.
Overall, this episode is a rich blend of personal stories, industry insights, and passionate advocacy for the future of trucking. Kameel's no-nonsense approach and deep commitment to the industry make for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion.
Welcome back to another episode of the Truckin' for Millennials podcast! In this episode, we dive back into the concept of Hot Trucker Summer and explore how truck drivers can maintain their health and fitness while on the road. We revisit our relationships with returning guests Michael Lombard and Mark Manera, as well as welcome first time guest Brandon Rothrock of B-Lean Fitness to the show to cover even more trucking health tips.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials Podcast, we dive deep into the world of truck driving education with our special guest, D'Wayne Shaw, Executive Dean of Professional and Career Education at Kilgore College. We kick off the conversation by discussing the importance of choosing the right place to get your CDL and the credentials to look for in a truck driving school. D'Wayne emphasizes the significance of FMCSA-certified curriculums and the quality of equipment used in training.
We then explore the exciting new development at Kilgore College: the Transportation Institute. D'Wayne shares the journey of establishing this institute, highlighting the community effort and collaboration with Kilgore Economic Development. The institute boasts a custom-built driving skills facility, complete with a classroom, warehouse for logistics training, and a simulated loading dock. This state-of-the-art facility aims to provide top-notch training for aspiring truck drivers.
D'Wayne also touches on the challenges and investments involved in setting up a truck driving program, from acquiring and maintaining trucks to ensuring a safe and effective learning environment. He explains the process of becoming a third-party testing site, which allows Kilgore College to test their students on-site, significantly reducing the wait time for testing.
We discuss the demographics of the students enrolling in the CDL program, noting that most are older individuals making a career change rather than recent high school graduates. D'Wayne mentions the importance of maturity and experience in handling the responsibilities of truck driving.
Towards the end of the episode, we touch on the potential for future courses focused on entrepreneurship and business management for those looking to become owner-operators. D'Wayne expresses interest in expanding the curriculum to include these aspects, recognizing the importance of business acumen in the trucking industry.
Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the efforts and innovations at Kilgore College to enhance truck driving education and support the logistics industry. We invite our listeners to join us for the ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 14th and to consider Kilgore College for their CDL training needs.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we're coming at you from the Texas Trucking Show at the NRG Center in Houston. The event has been a fantastic opportunity to connect with a diverse range of people in the trucking industry, from open deck carriers to industry friends and new acquaintances.
We kick off the episode by discussing the vibrant atmosphere of the show and the numerous connections we've made. We then dive into a series of interviews with various industry professionals:
- Willie Nelson from CDL Life: Willie talks about CDL Life's mission to connect drivers, fleet owners, and owner-operators through their news platform and app. He highlights the importance of community and safety in the trucking industry, especially for women drivers.
- Rob Carpenter: Rob shares his unique experience of driving a truck to the show and emphasizes the importance of good equipment and driver retention.
- Justin Lu from Truckpedia: Justin introduces Truckpedia, a TMS that connects trucking companies directly with shippers. He offers valuable advice on how carriers can effectively communicate with shippers and build lasting relationships.
- Courtney George from Wreaths Across America: Courtney explains the mission of Wreaths Across America to honor veterans by delivering wreaths across the country. She emphasizes the importance of respect and community service in the trucking industry.
- Dave Olson from Riggie's Truck Parking: Dave discusses the premium services offered at Riggie's Truck Parking locations and the strategic placement of their lots to maximize driver efficiency and safety.
- Harold Cutler and Jorge Mendoza from Truth in Trucking Podcast: Harold and George talk about their podcast and their expertise in trucking insurance and FMCSA compliance. They highlight the importance of maintaining good safety scores and compliance to keep insurance rates manageable.
Throughout the episode, we explore themes of community, safety, respect, and the importance of building strong relationships within the trucking industry. The Texas Trucking Show has provided a rich backdrop for these conversations, and we look forward to continuing to make new friends in freight.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials Podcast, we dive deep into the challenges and strategies for small trucking companies and freight brokerages with our guest, Tyson Lawrence, CEO of Diablo Freight Ventures. Tyson shares his extensive experience in the logistics industry, spanning over 20 years, and offers invaluable advice for those navigating the complexities of freight management and transportation.
We kick off the conversation by addressing the current struggles of small trucking companies, especially those heavily reliant on brokered freight. Tyson emphasizes the importance of not being afraid to take a step back to reassess and realign business strategies. He shares his personal journey, including the lessons learned from his first business that went bankrupt due to over-reliance on a single large customer.
Tyson also highlights the significance of finding a niche in the logistics industry. He explains how his second business found success by focusing on small to medium-sized businesses and acting as a coach and consultant to help them scale their logistics operations. This approach not only built strong relationships but also established his company as a trusted partner.
Throughout the episode, Tyson underscores the importance of hiring the right personalities for a freight brokerage. He shares insights on the attributes that make a successful team member, such as resilience, coachability, and a willingness to learn. Tyson's experience at C.H. Robinson taught him the value of building a team with like-minded individuals who can adapt to the challenges of the logistics industry.
Tyson's story serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs in the logistics sector. His journey from a W-2 employee to a successful business owner demonstrates the power of perseverance, adaptability, and strategic thinking. Whether you're a small trucking company looking to diversify your customer base or a freight brokerage aiming to carve out a niche, Tyson's insights provide a roadmap for sustainable growth and success in the logistics industry.
Tune in to learn more about Tyson's new venture, Diablo Freight Ventures, and how he's leveraging his experience to provide innovative and customized solutions for freight management and transportation. Happy 4th of July to all our listeners, and drive safely out there!
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Ken Adamo, the Chief of Analytics at DAT Solutions. Ken brought a wealth of knowledge and insights into the world of freight analytics, sharing his expertise on how data can drive better decision-making in the logistics industry.
We kicked off the conversation by discussing the challenges of absorbing and utilizing analytic information in the freight industry. Ken emphasized the importance of mastering the basics of pricing freight and understanding market conditions before diving into more advanced analytics. He shared practical advice for small brokers on how to effectively use DAT's tools to price freight accurately and make informed decisions.
Ken also provided a fascinating history of DAT, which started as a dial-a-truck load finder service in 1978 at a truck stop in Portland, Oregon. He highlighted the evolution of freight analytics over the years and the importance of historical data in understanding market trends.
We delved into the impact of election years on freight rates, with Ken explaining how political uncertainty can affect investment and, consequently, the freight market. He also touched on the cyclical nature of the freight industry, describing the typical four-year cycles of expansion and contraction and where we currently stand in that cycle.
One of the key takeaways from our discussion was the importance of contract freight for brokers. Ken explained that while securing contract freight can ensure long-term success, it also requires careful planning and accurate forecasting to avoid potential pitfalls.
Ken's passion for logistics and freight was evident throughout the conversation. He shared his journey from working in deregulated energy to falling in love with the complexities of the freight industry at FedEx. His enthusiasm for data and analytics was contagious, and he provided valuable insights into how brokers and carriers can leverage data to improve their operations.
Overall, this episode was packed with actionable advice and deep insights into the world of freight analytics. Whether you're a small broker looking to improve your pricing strategies or a carrier navigating the complexities of the market, Ken's expertise offers valuable guidance to help you succeed in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.
In this special episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Transportation Marketing and Sales Association event in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Our first guest, Jim Kenny, a seasoned expert in non-asset-based sales, shares invaluable insights into the vital behaviors of sales professionals. Jim breaks down the sales process into six essential blocks: pre-call planning, sales call opening, needs assessment, solution development, closing, and follow-up. He emphasizes the importance of differentiation, discovery, and asking needs-based questions to build meaningful connections with customers and carriers. Jim also highlights the challenges of post-COVID sales environments and the necessity of specific, targeted communication to increase engagement and response rates.
In the second half of the episode, we shift gears to a heartwarming conversation with Christian, Joe, and Rachael from Mohawk Global, a family-owned 3PL company. They share their unique experiences working in a family business and the core values that drive their organization: care, enrich, and deliver. The discussion delves into their compassionate leadership style, the no-layoff policy, and the various initiatives they have in place to support their employees and communities. From a charitable fund to community gardens, Mohawk Global exemplifies how leading with love and transparency can create a thriving, supportive work environment.
This episode is packed with practical advice for sales professionals and inspiring stories of how values-driven leadership can make a significant impact in the logistics industry. Whether you're looking to refine your sales techniques or seeking inspiration for building a strong company culture, this episode has something for everyone.
This episode centers around a recent controversy involving Truck Parking Club, dubbed the "Airbnb of truck parking." We discuss an article from Overdrive Online that highlights the backlash Truck Parking Club has faced for converting previously free truck parking spaces into paid reservations. Veteran truck drivers have voiced their concerns about the financial strain this places on them and how the solution to one of the top issues of the industry for truck drivers potentially creating more problems.
What do you think? Let us know your thoughts on paid truck parking!
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we dive deep into the critical topic of managing stress and the importance of solving problems effectively. Our guest, Tom Bray, a senior industry business advisor at JJ Keller & Associates, shares his invaluable insights on various pain points faced by trucking companies today.
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In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we kick things off by reflecting on Memorial Day. We express our gratitude to service members, both past and present, for their sacrifices.
We then dive into some significant freight news, discussing a new bill that aims to fine double brokers $10,000. This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the trucking industry by targeting fraudulent practices. We debate whether this bill will effectively deter double brokering or if it will just lead to new loopholes.
Next, we shift gears to the topic of electric trucks, highlighting the recent Advanced Clean Transportation Expo. We discuss Tesla's push for the trucking industry to adopt fully purpose-built electric vehicles and the challenges faced by traditional OEMs in transitioning to electric powertrains. We also touch on Kenworth's new Super Truck 2 concept, which boasts impressive aerodynamic design and efficiency improvements.
The conversation then broadens to the overall complexity of transitioning to greener technologies in the trucking industry. We explore the balance between maintaining diesel engines, which currently dominate the market, and investing in zero-emission technologies. The discussion includes insights from industry leaders on the need for improved infrastructure and collaboration to support this transition.
To provide a deeper perspective, we revisit a debate we hosted last year between Niki Okuk of Cal Start and David Heller of the Truckload Carrier Association. They discuss the practical challenges and potential benefits of transitioning to electric trucks, particularly focusing on charging infrastructure and the feasibility of long-haul electric trucking.
Overall, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the current state and future of electric trucks in the industry, highlighting both the progress being made and the hurdles that still need to be overcome. We invite our listeners to share their thoughts on these developments and stay tuned for more insightful discussions in future episodes.
Hello, Trucking for Millennials listeners! In this week's episode, we've put together a special mashup featuring some of the most engaging and insightful conversations from our recent episodes. Whether you're a first-time listener or a long-time fan, this episode serves as a fantastic sampler of the diverse voices and perspectives we've had the pleasure of hosting.
We kicked off the episode with a discussion on the challenges and dynamics faced by small trucking companies, especially in terms of insurance and regulatory pressures. Our guests shared their experiences and insights on how these factors can disproportionately impact smaller operators in the industry.
We also delved into the topic of driver pay and retention, a critical issue in the trucking industry. Our guests discussed the realistic expectations for driver salaries, considering the current market conditions and the operational challenges faced by carriers. The conversation highlighted the importance of aligning driver pay with mileage and the overall financial health of the company.
Safety in trucking, always a priority, was another key focus. We discussed the impact of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) on driver operations and safety, with insights from veteran drivers who have seen the industry's evolution from paper logs to ELDs. The discussion also touched on the broader implications of technology in trucking, including tracking and monitoring systems.
Lastly, we explored the potential boycott by truckers in response to political and social issues, examining how misinformation can spread and affect the industry. This segment provided a critical look at the influence of media and personal networks in shaping truckers' actions and industry reactions.
As always, we wrapped up with a reminder for our listeners to engage with us through reviews, comments, and suggestions for future guests. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to explore the issues that matter most in the trucking industry.
Stay tuned for next week's episode, which promises to bring another round of engaging discussions and expert insights. Thanks for joining us, and keep on trucking!
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we dive deep into the critical topics of road safety and compliance, particularly focusing on the upcoming CVSA International Road Check. Our guest, Rob Carpenter from Trucksafe, shares invaluable insights on maintaining safety standards and preparing for inspections.
Key Points Discussed: * Accountability and Safety Checks: We discuss the importance of thorough safety checks before assigning drivers to loads, emphasizing the need to avoid risks associated with drug and alcohol violations. * Impact of Legal Cases on Trucking Operations: Rob illustrates how legal outcomes, like the Werner case in Texas, can lead to significant financial consequences for trucking companies, highlighting the importance of compliance and safe operation practices. * Preparation for CVSA International Road Check: The episode covers the specific focus areas for this year's road check, including tractor protection systems and alcohol and controlled substance possession. Rob provides a detailed explanation of the tractor protection valve and its critical role in vehicle safety. * Driver Challenges and Substance Abuse: We touch on the personal and professional challenges faced by truck drivers, such as isolation and financial pressures, which can sometimes lead to substance abuse. Rob shares personal anecdotes to underline the importance of support and understanding within the industry. * Avoiding Inspections and Maintaining Compliance: Tips on how drivers can avoid unnecessary inspections and maintain compliance were shared, stressing the importance of vehicle appearance and behavior on the road. * Cultural Influence on Safety Compliance: Rob emphasizes that safety starts at the top. Companies with a strong culture of safety and clear expectations from leadership see better compliance and safer practices among their drivers.
Conclusion: This episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive safety measures in the trucking industry. By understanding the regulations, preparing thoroughly for inspections, and fostering a culture of safety, trucking companies can protect themselves from legal risks and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
Listeners are encouraged to connect with Rob Carpenter on LinkedIn for more insights into trucking safety and compliance. Join us next time for more discussions on the pulse of the trucking industry.
In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Tremayne Hewitt, a seasoned local owner operator from East Texas, who has been in the trucking industry since he was 17. Tremayne shared his extensive experience and insights into the trucking world, making it a highly informative session for both new and veteran listeners.
Key Points Discussed: * Choosing Between Young and Experienced Drivers: Tremayne expressed a preference for hiring younger, less experienced drivers who are eager to learn and motivated by earnings, as opposed to older drivers who might be set in their ways. * Transition from Logging to Flatbed Trucking: Tremayne narrated his transition from logging to flatbed trucking, a change spurred by personal reasons and a desire for a new challenge. * Importance of Compliance and Safety: Tremayne emphasized the critical nature of maintaining compliance with regulations, especially in light of his experiences with accidents and the scrutiny that follows. * Legacy and Personal Touch in Trucking: He shared touching stories about his grandfather, who was a significant influence in his life and career. Tremayne continues to honor his grandfather through custom truck designs and a strong work ethic. * Advice for New Truckers: For those looking to enter the industry, Tremayne advised securing an MC number first and emphasized the importance of understanding insurance costs and other financial commitments before starting. * Operational Challenges: Discussing the daily challenges in trucking, such as load securing and dealing with hours of service restrictions, Tremaine provided practical insights into managing these issues effectively. * Community and Relationships: Tremayne highlighted the importance of building good relationships with brokers and clients to secure consistent freight work, moving beyond dependency on load boards.
Personal Insights: Tremayne also shared his personal routines and preferences, such as starting his driving day with gospel music, which keeps him centered and focused. His approach to trucking is deeply personal and rooted in family values, which resonates with many in our community.
This episode not only gave us a glimpse into the life of a local truck owner-operator but also served as a valuable learning session on navigating the complexities of the trucking industry with grace and resilience. Tremayne's story is a testament to the impact of legacy, the importance of adaptability, and the power of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of industry challenges.
We had an excellent time getting to know one of the most widely recognized voices in the trucking industry, Kevin Rutherford! Kevin regularly answers questions on a wide variety of topics on his show, Trucking Business & Beyond about operating a trucking business, personal health, trucking regulation and more.
You'll learn more about Kevin, his past experience on SiriusXM and building success in the trucking episode in this episode.
In this episode, Aaron and Nolan dive into their recent experience at the TIA (Transportation Intermediaries Association) Capital Ideas Conference in sunny Phoenix, Arizona. It PDQ America's their first time attending, and we wanted to share our insights and takeaways from this event, which is a significant gathering for freight brokers like us.
You'll hear us discuss our initial impressions, about the venue, what we learned, the networking that we had and the value of personal and professional development.
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Alex Mai of Mutha Trucker News, a prominent figure in the trucking industry with a massive following across various social media platforms. Alex shared his incredible journey from being a disillusioned Walgreens employee to becoming one of the most recognized voices in trucking.
Key Takeaways: * Embracing Opportunities: Alex's story is a testament to seizing opportunities, even when they seem daunting. His decision to leave a stable job at Walgreens to pursue trucking under his uncle's guidance was a pivotal moment that set the stage for his future success. * Finding Your Niche: Alex emphasized the importance of listening to your audience and delivering content that resonates with them. He found his stride in providing trucking news and updates, which garnered more engagement than his personal vlogs. * Building Relationships: A core theme of our conversation was the significance of building genuine relationships rather than transactional ones. Alex believes in providing value without expecting immediate returns, which has helped him forge lasting connections in the industry. * Content Creation Insights: For those looking to make their mark in the digital space, Alex advises being data-driven and consistently analyzing which content performs best. He also stresses the need to enjoy what you're doing to avoid burnout. * Platform Recommendations: When asked about the best platforms for gaining traction in the trucking industry, Alex highlighted the importance of understanding where your audience is most active and engaging with them there.
Alex's Business Ventures: * T-Shirt Company: Alex discussed his involvement with a t-shirt company that caters to truckers, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to diversify his income streams. * Mother Trucker News: Alex's dedication to trucking news has made him a go-to source for updates within the trucking community, solidifying his role as an influencer.
Personal Insights: * Alex shared personal stories, including the rejection he faced early on from other influencers and how it shaped his approach to collaboration and support within the community. * He also touched on the challenges of balancing his personal life with his demanding schedule as a content creator and business owner.
Conclusion: Our conversation with Alex Mai was not only inspiring but also packed with practical advice for anyone looking to make an impact in the trucking industry or any field through social media. His journey is a reminder that with passion, hard work, and a focus on building genuine relationships, success is within reach.
Remember to subscribe to the Trucking for Millennials podcast for more insightful discussions with industry leaders like Alex Mai.
Welcome back to another episode of our podcast, where we dive deep into the world of logistics, leadership, and the personal journeys that shape the industry. Today, we had the pleasure of speaking with Robert Bain, also known as the "Strongest Man in Logistics," a title he earned not just through his physical prowess but also through his resilience and introspective journey during a challenging time.
Key Takeaways: * Leadership in Logistics: We discussed the evolving concept of leadership, especially as millennials are stepping into their prime leadership years. Leadership isn't about being the loudest or the most visible on social media; it's about guiding people from one point to another, especially when they can't do it alone. * The Role of Mentorship: Robert emphasized the importance of having mentors like Trey Griggs and others who can offer support and guidance. In an industry as tough as logistics, having a support system is crucial for personal and professional growth. * Coaching and Empowering Women: Robert is passionate about coaching, particularly for women in logistics. He believes in breaking down barriers and ensuring that women's voices are heard and valued in a male-dominated field. * The Importance of Sales Skills: Regardless of one's role in logistics, Robert advises learning how to sell. Sales skills are essential and can't be automated, making them a key differentiator in the industry. * Leadership Development: Robert teaches not just how to lead but also how to lead other leaders. He stresses that the best producers aren't always the best leaders and that leadership is about making everyone around you better. * Broker Carrier Summit: Robert shared his involvement with the Broker Carrier Summit, an event focused on improving communication and relationships between brokers and carriers. The summit excludes shippers to focus solely on the dynamics between these two groups, fostering a better understanding and collaboration.
Personal Stories: * Career Beginnings: Robert shared his journey from working with sports cards and memorabilia to the restaurant industry and eventually falling into logistics due to his keen eye for detail and understanding of value. * Physical Strength and Recovery: After a significant injury, Robert found strength and a new perspective, leading to his moniker "Strongest Man in Logistics." He uses his experience to motivate and inspire others in the industry. * Leadership Philosophy: Robert's approach to leadership is grounded in his experiences and the understanding that leadership is multifaceted. He believes in leading by example and empowering others to step into their own leadership roles.
Final Thoughts: This episode was a powerful reminder of the human element in logistics. Leadership, mentorship, and community are the pillars that can drive the industry forward. Robert Bain's story is a testament to the strength and resilience that lies within each of us, and how we can harness it to uplift others and create a more inclusive and effective logistics community.
Remember, whether you're lifting barbells or building business relationships, it's about the legacy you leave and the people you empower along the way. Stay tuned for more insights and stories from the front lines of logistics.
Welcome back to another episode of the Trucker for Millennials podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into the current state of trucking rates, the COVID-19 trucking rates that won't come back, and the recent Francis Scott Key Bridge tragedy.
The State of Trucking Rates Our conversation kicks off with a discussion about the ever-present issue of low rates in the trucking industry. We ponder whether we're waiting for the bottom to hit or if the industry simply fluctuates from one rate spike to another. The consensus seems to be that the golden days of COVID rates are long gone, and many truckers are feeling the pinch, especially those who entered the industry during the pandemic.
MATS Recap We had the pleasure of having Justin Martin on the show, a trucking industry veteran and social media expert. Justin shared his experiences from the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), highlighting the importance of networking and the value of in-person interactions. He also touched on the FMCSA sessions at MATS, where he had the opportunity to discuss pressing issues like lease purchase programs and the driver shortage myth.
After-Party Insights Justin gave us a glimpse into the after-party scene at MATS, where the real magic happens. These informal gatherings are where industry professionals let their guard down and share insights, frustrations, and future plans. It's a place where you can hear about new ventures and get the inside scoop on the industry.
Baltimore Bridge Tragedy We also discussed the recent catastrophic event where a cargo ship collided with the Baltimore Bridge, causing it to collapse. This incident has led to significant supply chain disruptions, particularly for hazardous materials that were routed through the bridge. We talked about the impact on freight travel in the area and the importance of finding alternative routes.
Conspiracy Theories Lastly, we addressed the conspiracy theories surrounding the bridge tragedy. We emphasized the need for factual information and cautioned against jumping to conclusions without evidence.
That's a wrap for this episode. We covered a lot of ground, from the state of trucking rates to the impact of unexpected disasters on the industry. Stay tuned for more discussions on the pulse of trucking and the people who keep it moving.
In this episode of the Trucker for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jamie Hagen, also known as Hell Bent Hagen, a seasoned trucker and owner-operator who has made significant strides in fuel efficiency and growing his trucking business, Hellbent Xpress. Jamie shared his extensive experience in the trucking industry, starting from when he was just 16 years old, and offered valuable insights into how owner-operators can improve their bottom line through fuel efficiency.
Key Takeaways: * Fuel Efficiency: Jamie emphasized the importance of fuel efficiency for owner-operators, noting that it directly impacts their take-home pay. He shared that the national average for fuel efficiency is around six and a half miles per gallon, and anything below that could mean a business is struggling. Jamie himself has achieved an impressive average of 9.2 miles per gallon over the year, even reaching up to 12 miles per gallon on certain hauls. * Equipment Matters: According to Jamie, 70% of fuel efficiency comes from the equipment used. He advises investing in aerodynamic trucks and trailers and considering additional modifications to reduce mechanical and rolling resistance. * Driver Impact: The remaining 30% of fuel efficiency is in the hands of the driver. Jamie suggests that drivers slow down to save fuel, as higher speeds significantly increase fuel consumption. * Growing the Business: Jamie shared his journey from operating four trucks to expanding to twelve with the help of his wife, who manages the back office. He highlighted the importance of compliance, having a good accountant, and the benefits of his partnership with Mack Trucks, which allowed him to secure trucks even during shortages. * Partnership with Mack Trucks: Jamie's relationship with Mack Trucks has been beneficial for both parties. He has been able to provide real-world feedback on their trucks' performance and fuel efficiency, and in return, he has had access to new trucks when they were scarce in the market. * The Race to 11 MPG: Jamie recounted his friendly competition with another trucker, Joel Morrow, to see who could first achieve 11 miles per gallon in their truck. This challenge was turned into a promotional video by Mack Trucks, showcasing their commitment to fuel efficiency.
Conclusion: Jamie Hagen's story is one of passion, dedication, and smart business practices. His focus on fuel efficiency not only saves money but also contributes to a more sustainable trucking industry. For owner-operators looking to improve their operations, Jamie's advice on equipment choice, driving habits, and business management are invaluable. Join us next time for another great episode of Trucker for Millennials, where we continue to explore the ins and outs of the trucking industry.
In this episode you'll meet Jeremy Thone, Marketing Director for 3PL Systems and host of 3PL Live Podcast.
Throughout this conversation Jeremy shares numerous tips and insights about creating authentic content marketing and automating processes through AI and ChatGPT.
If you're looking to grow as a marketer and build a brand that stands out in freight and logistics, this episode is a definite don't miss!
We also discuss a recent article from FreightWaves that covers Truckers in British Columbia who hit overpasses may get 18 months in prison and be fined up to $100,000.
Enjoy!
In today's episode of Trucker for Millennials, we had the pleasure of speaking with Roo, a seasoned truck driver with a wealth of experience in the industry. Roo shared her journey from starting in agriculture to now hauling hazardous materials in the tanker division. She discussed the challenges and personal growth she's encountered, emphasizing the importance of mental health and community support within the trucking profession.
Roo's story began in 2016, where she cut her teeth in the agricultural sector, dealing with everything from manure to vegetables. She highlighted the opportunities for new drivers in agriculture, especially during harvest season. After a brief hiatus due to COVID-19 and homeschooling her children, Roo transitioned into the chemical side of trucking, which she finds more secure due to stringent regulations.
Throughout the conversation, Roo touched on the loneliness that can come with trucking and how social media and the trucking community have become invaluable resources for support. She also spoke candidly about the work-life balance struggles and the sacrifices made while on the road.
Roo also provided insights into the misconceptions about trucking, such as the unrealistic earnings expectations for new drivers and the challenges of owner-operator ventures. She also addressed the supposed driver shortage, suggesting that the issue might be more about retaining quality drivers than a lack of them.
We delved into the importance of staying positive and healthy on the road, with Roo sharing her personal battle with quitting soda and the trend of cooking in the truck to maintain a healthier lifestyle. She stressed the importance of being prepared for any situation, carrying essentials like water, food, and mechanical supplies.
The episode took a serious turn as we discussed the recent incident of a truck hanging off a bridge, a bridge Roo has driven across before. This led to a broader conversation about the dangers of trucking and the need for public awareness and mutual respect on the roads.
Roo's advice to aspiring truckers, especially women considering the profession, was to give it a try and see where the journey takes them. She encouraged taking the leap, as it can lead to unexpected personal growth and fulfillment.
In conclusion, Roo's story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in the trucking industry. Her experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of community, mental health, and self-care for truck drivers everywhere. Join us next time on Trucker for Millennials for more insights into the lives of those who keep our goods moving.
In this episode we get a masterclass of the business of roadside assistance from Corey of DOTRoadside a follow on X at @DOTRoadside! He has 35 years of industry experience and in this episode we talk about the ins and outs of his business including what a roadside call looks like from the roadside service perspective, predatory towing, how to keep yourself from needing a tow, building relationships with a roadside tech, what to do if you're interested in starting your own roadside business and much more!
Trucking and politics converged in an epic way last week with the news of a rumor of truck drivers boycotting loads headed to New York City.
The Transmitter portion of our show is dedicated to the implications of this story and if it is truly an organized refusual of loads or just a viral video turned opportunity for media to capitalize on the attention.
Then we have a conversation with John A Rogers, a freight broker in Georgia who's been in freight for around 5 years and in sales for much longer.
You'll get to know more about John, how he got into logistics and get his insight on what it takes to win in the freight game. If you're looking to boost your sales and business in 2024, you'll definitely want to check out this conversation!
Connect with him on LinkedIn!
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Lee and Lisa Schmitt.
Follow them as the document their loads across the country on their Facebook page, Trucking Across America w/ the Schmitts.
They shared valuable insights into the changing landscape of the trucking industry, particularly in relation to working with brokers and the impact of regulations like the ELD mandate. Lee and Lisa emphasized the importance of understanding the laws and regulations governing the industry and encouraged younger drivers to educate themselves on these aspects.
The Schmitts also discussed their experiences in hauling oversized freight, highlighting the unique and challenging nature of their work. They provided details about their truck and trailer setup, including the types of freight they typically transport, such as pipeline equipment, oil rigs, and large steel tubes.
Additionally, the conversation touched on upcoming advocacy efforts, potential regulatory changes, and the importance of drivers being actively involved in shaping the future of the industry. Lee and Lisa's dedication to educating and empowering fellow drivers was evident throughout the episode, showcasing their commitment to improving conditions and advocating for the rights of truckers.
In this episode we chat with Jennifer Karpus Romain, the Executive Director at the Transportation Marketing and Sales Association (TMSA).
Jennifer shared her journey from journalism to marketing, and how she found her passion in the logistics industry despite not starting there. She highlighted the importance of creativity in industrial sectors and the rewarding experience of helping companies tell their stories.
Jennifer also gave us a rundown of what TMSA does, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and how it serves as a collaborative space for sales and marketing professionals in transportation. She talked about the upcoming Elevate conference in New Orleans, the networking opportunities, and the community give-back initiatives that TMSA is involved in.
We discussed the importance of collaboration in marketing and sales, and how TMSA facilitates this by connecting professionals from various sectors within logistics. Jennifer's enthusiasm for her work and the industry was palpable, and she emphasized the value of learning from each other to apply successful strategies across different segments of the industry.
Lastly, we touched on some serious issues like fraud in the industry, with stories of staged accidents and bribery schemes that have been affecting trucking companies and their insurers. We also talked about the lighter side of things, like our Super Bowl picks and the fun of seeing DJ Diesel (Shaq) live.
Thanks for tuning in, and don't forget to check out The Transmitter on YouTube for more timely discussions. Stay safe out there, and keep on trucking!
Welcome back to another episode of our podcast, where we dive deep into the world of logistics, trucking, and all things freight. Today, we had an insightful conversation with our special guests from the Logistics Lounge, Hunter Woodfin and Robert Petersen, who shared their experiences and offered valuable advice for those navigating the industry.
But before we get into that conversation we have our Transmitter segment where we discuss this recent article from Overdrive Online which profiles an under 21 year old driver participating in the FMCSA's pilot program designed to test the waters for under 21's to drive interstate.
Global Freight Challenges and Opportunities We kicked off the episode discussing the complexities of global transportation, particularly the situation in the Red Sea and its impact on shipping routes and costs. Hunter explained how geopolitical tensions and rerouted shipping lanes are causing transit times to increase and forcing companies to find new suppliers and manufacturers. He emphasized the importance of staying informed and adaptable in the face of such challenges.
The Importance of Relationships in Logistics Both Hunter and Robert highlighted the significance of building strong relationships within the industry. Whether it's with carriers, customers, or even internal team members, nurturing these connections can be crucial when the market takes a turn. They also touched on the advantages of working with smaller companies, where a more personalized approach can lead to better support and growth opportunities.
Personal Growth and Industry Insights Robert shared his journey of personal development while working as a truck driver, pursuing further education, and obtaining various certifications. His story is a testament to the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone and the benefits of continuous learning. Hunter, with his background in logistics and intermodal transportation, also stressed the importance of staying current with industry trends and technologies.
The Logistics Lounge: A Place to Unwind and Connect Our guests introduced us to their own podcast, the Logistics Lounge, which serves as a virtual meeting place for industry professionals to unwind and talk shop. They described it as a late-night talk show for logistics, where people can come together to discuss freight, life, and everything in between. Check it out here
Final Thoughts and Super Bowl Picks As we wrapped up the episode, we couldn't resist discussing some lighter topics, including our favorite ways to enjoy potatoes and our picks for the Super Bowl. Both Hunter and Robert shared their support for the Kansas City Chiefs, and we all agreed that it's fun to watch a phenom like Patrick Mahomes in action.
In conclusion, this episode was packed with insights into the logistics industry, from the impact of global events on freight to the importance of relationships and personal growth. We hope our listeners found it as enlightening as we did, and we look forward to bringing more engaging conversations to the table in future episodes.
This episode is the same Trucking for Millennials you now and love with a bit of a different layout.
We're going to be doing more freight related news in dedicated segments, so be sure to subscribe to our YouTube so you don't miss an episode!
Then we connect with 5 Star Fan Clay Gerringer, owner of Big Rig Permit Services and TruckerDocs.app.
He's got an awesome story about how he's crafted his career in trucking and we talk about how he helps owner operators stay organized with all their documentation through his new app, TruckerDocs!
If you enjoyed this episode please let us know on Youtube or through a 5 star review on Apple!
In this insightful episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Charles Gracey, a seasoned recruiter in the trucking industry and the president and founder of Hot Seat Services. Charles, also known as the "tatted recruiter," shared his candid thoughts on the alleged driver shortage, the realities of driver recruitment, and the challenges of placing millennials behind the wheel.
Key Points Discussed: * Driver Shortage Myth: Charles firmly believes that the narrative of a driver shortage is a "dumpster fire" that needs to be left behind. He argues that there is no shortage of drivers, but rather an issue with carriers being overly selective due to being near capacity. * Recruitment Realities: The conversation delved into the intricacies of driver recruitment, highlighting the unrealistic expectations from both carriers and drivers. Charles emphasized the importance of aligning expectations with reality and the need for drivers to ask the right questions before joining a company. * Insurance and Regulation Impact: Charles pointed out that insurance companies significantly influence hiring decisions, often more than in the past. This has led to an overabundance of regulations that affect small carriers disproportionately. * Pay and Benefits: A significant portion of the discussion focused on what constitutes fair pay for drivers. Charles noted that pay should be relative to the cost of living in different areas and that carriers need to consider offering more than just a good salary to retain drivers. * Millennial Drivers: The episode also touched on the challenges of recruiting younger drivers. Charles advised millennials to have a clear plan and set expectations for their trucking career. He also urged carriers to create clear pathways for career advancement to attract and retain younger talent. * Quality of Life: Charles and the hosts discussed the importance of quality of life for drivers, including home time, technology for communication, and other benefits that go beyond pay. * Advice for Drivers and Carriers: Charles encouraged drivers to communicate openly with potential employers and for carriers to be transparent about the job and its requirements. He also suggested that carriers develop structured programs to guide drivers through their career progression.
Conclusion: The episode concluded with a robust discussion on the need for the trucking industry to adapt to the changing workforce and to address the core issues of driver retention and recruitment. Charles Gracey's expertise provided valuable insights into making trucking an attractive career choice for the next generation while debunking the myth of a driver shortage.
In this episode we discuss all things safety, compliance, and winter preparation with Rob Carpenter of TruckSafe.
In this episode, we welcomed back Rob, a fan favorite and safety expert, to help us kick off the year with a focus on safety in the trucking industry. Rob, who has a rich background in trucking, from driving to owning a company and now consulting with TruckSafe alongside lawyers Brandon Wiseman and Jared Childress, shared his insights on the importance of safety and compliance for truckers of all sizes, from owner-operators to large fleets.
Key Takeaways: * Safety as a Priority: Health and safety are the top values in trucking. Without a focus on safety, truckers risk their businesses and lives. * Defensible Processes: Rob emphasized the importance of having defensible processes and programs in place to protect against litigation and ensure safety beyond mere compliance. * Practical Compliance: Compliance isn't just about following rules; it's about understanding the 'why' behind them and preparing for potential legal defense. * Winter Driving Tips: With the winter season upon us, Rob provided valuable tips for truckers, including carrying essentials like battery packs, blankets, and windshield wiper fluid, and ensuring proper vehicle maintenance. * Continuous Improvement: Rob suggested using resources like the FMCSA's safety planner to check for compliance and exposure points, and highlighted the importance of continuous license monitoring. * Culture of Safety: Companies must articulate their safety expectations clearly through handbooks, orientations, and continuous communication to foster a culture of safety. * Driver Persona Changes: Rob noted that the driver persona has evolved over the years, and the industry must adapt to these changes, including how drivers are initially taught to drive. * Personal Conveyance: The misuse of personal conveyance is a common issue, and companies need to define clear policies to prevent abuse. * Weather Awareness: Both drivers and dispatchers should be vigilant about weather conditions to avoid unnecessary risks and communicate potential delays to customers.
Conclusion: Safety in trucking is multifaceted, involving compliance, company culture, driver behavior, and proactive measures. Rob's expertise provided our listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how to approach trucking safety in the new year, regardless of the size of their operation. We look forward to having Rob back on the show to continue discussing safety and compliance in the trucking industry.
In this episode we catch up with Blythe Brumleve of the Everything Is Logistics to discuss what she's been up to since our last chat and how trucking businesses and logistics professionals can kick off their marketing the right way in 2024!
We also discuss establishing trust, each social platform, reviews, and much more!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
This episode features motivational messages from past guests Michael Lombard, Brent Orsuga, Brandon Johnson, and Chris Jolly!
Enjoy!
Merry Christmas!
A simple message of Christmas thanks to our carriers and listeners.
+, a shout out to Jelly Roll for his delivery of a truckload full of toys
and a special trucking inspired Christmas poem!
In this episode Aaron and Michael discuss the supply chain of Christmas Trees, 365 parking spots coming to Wyoming, and Vivek Ramaswamy's upcoming truck policy announcement planned for December 21st.
Then they get to know Jared Flinn, co-founder of BulkLoads.com, an online platform that connects shippers and carriers in the bulk freight industry. With over 21 years of experience in transportation and logistics, Jared is a not only a "40 Under 40" according to Springfield Business Journal, he's a "Top 100 Most Influential People in the Trucking Industry" by FreightWaves.
Jared also started Smart Freight Funding, a factoring business and Bulk Insurance Group to help streamline and modernize these services in the industry.
If that wasn't enough, he's also an author of a children's book series that can be found on Amazon, Semi Sam.
Subscribe to his podcast/YouTube here, and be sure to check out BulkLoads.com!
In this episode, we sit down with Jason Rabine of Max Freightlines and discuss his rise in the industry, holiday plans, and what it really means to be a broker / agent. Watch the video of this episode on our YouTube!
With Thanksgiving in the rearview, we're full speed ahead to end the year. But it isn't over yet! This podcast is a fun recap of some of the favorite episodes of the year and a celebration of our listeners who've become TOP FANS according to Spotify.
We're so grateful for each listener and guest, and if you missed some of these episodes, this is an easy way to check them out.
Be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter so you don't miss an episode!
In this episode we talk to Garrett Allen, founder of LoadPartner.io which uses the latest in AI technology to react in real-time to shipment events and incoming messages.
We start the conversation discussing this article about middle of the night check calls drivers are sometimes subjected to: Broker 3a.m. Calls - "unless there's been a death in the family, a text will suffice"
Then we talk to Garrett about how LoadPartner will work once it's available, communication etiquette between drivers and brokers, the impact AI will have on logistics in the future, and more!
Join the LoadPartner waitlist here!
In this episode we chat with Chris Thomas, @indietrucker about his Thanksgiving plans, what he thinks about the new bipartisan legislation regarding overtime pay for truck drivers, after expressing Thanks for the Trucking for MIllennials audience, PDQ America customers, and everyone in the logistics industry for keeping the economy moving.
We also talk to Chris about his experience hauling Pneumatic Trailers with Autumn Transport, his choice of stocking stuffers for truck drivers, staying positive over the road and much more!
Matthew Perkins is the co-owner of BTB Logistics with a ton of experience arranging transportation for a wide variety of industries. He was a panelist at the most recent TruckN'Hustle FreightFest in Houston and has a ton of gems to share in this converation.
If you're interested in learning how to start in the trucking industry, dominate a niche, make sure you're not too overleveraged on one customer and have the right mix, utilize the "spider web sale" and much more, check it out!
Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn
In this episode of Trucking for Millenials, we take you back down to Houston, Texas for Frieghtfest 2023. We sit down with several great guests including Evan Shelley, Mark Manera, Jori Meyers, Trey Griggs, and Tyson Lawrence and talk through various ideas and issues in the industry.
In this episode you'll hear Michael and Aaron discuss the latest news happening in freight including the recent bomshell that Convoy, one of the pioneers of the digital freight brokerage has gone out of business.
We also listen to Drake croon about having a CDL.
THEN they discuss the ATRI's latest iteration of the Top Issues in Trucking 2023 survey, and discuss each of the top 10 concerns from industry stakeholders, commercial drivers, and motor carriers.
Here's a conversation Aaron had on site at FreightFest 2023 with experienced heavy hauler Wadley St. Pierre and Jerome Wilson, who's beginning his journey in open deck freight and is interested in getting into heavy haul.
This is a unique opportunity to hear an experienced owner operator and an up-and-comer in the industry with a flatbed trailer ready to learn and connect and have a conversation!
If you're interested in jumping into the heavy haul segment of the freight market, curious what it sounds like when a broker and a carrier get together to talk business, or what resources are available to help you, this is a can't miss!
In this episode, we talk with Michael Caney of Highway about how carriers and brokers can establish trust, as well as all of the in's and out's of double brokering and how to avoid it. Highway is is a technology company in the logistics industry that is quickly establishing itself as the definitive source of truth for carrier identity, with core features including a patent-pending identity engine, single sign-on functionality, carrier connections, and fleet analytics. Contact hello@gohighway or visit gohighway.com to find out more.
Watch this episode on our YouTube channel and don't forget to subscribe!
After reacting to the recent back and forth between TikTok influencer and trucking entrepreneur G Face had with Lombard Trucking, G Face reached out and wanted to have a conversation. We thought it would be a good opportunity to learn more about how he got into the trucking industry, what his trucking business and consulting services look like, and what he meant when he said he double brokered loads.
In this episode Aaron catches up with past Trucking for Millennials guest Shay Lynn Dixon!
You'll hear about how she's navigating the 2023 freight market focused on hot shot trucking and flatbed freight. Shay has a ton of experience hauling for the aerospace industry, so if you're interested in niching down, she has some great tips about finding customers.
Shay also shares the importance of building relationships with customers and actively networking in her local community.
In this episode you'll hear Aaron chat with Adam Robinson, CEO & Founder of The Robinson Agency.
Adam was and still remains a trailblazer in marketing implementing omni channel marketing strategies at a variety of logistics firms prior to founding his own marketing agency where he helps customers in the logistics space today.
In this episode you'll hear more about Adam's start in logistics and how the results he garnered for Cerasis led to opportunities at Turvo and FreightWaves.
You'll also hear his reccomendations for individuals and business owners to find and refine their voice, the power of story, his favorite tools, books, and much more.
We also discuss his massive guide he recently published for free on LinkedIn that dives deep into how to build an omni channel marketing plan of your own. Read it here.
Enjoy!
In this episode we celebrate the Cowboys recent win, and a 5 Star Fan before connection with President of JP Auto Transport, a 2023 Inc 5000 Fastest Growing Companies in USA •
We get into his career and what he's learned so far as he continues to build his company in public by documenting his growth on X. Follow Kevin @autotransportg!
If you're interested in learning the ins and outs of auto transport and learn from the mindset of an entrepreneur building the business in today's market.
https://jpautotransport.com/
In this episode, 6 truck drivers join us for some a fun round of hot takes and fast moving game of "Load it or Leave it". You'll hear our panel of guests sound off on: Truck Driver Appreciation Week Most Annoying things Brokers say to Drivers High Fuel Prices or Low Rates? The Trucking Industry Better off without Brokers / Dispatchers Interstate Driving Age at 18 and more!
Be sure to follow/subscribe to
@LombardTruckin and listen to Lombard Trucking Podcast
@TruckingwithDev
@supertrucker on X and read FreightWaves.com
and subscribe to Gord's newsletter at autonomoustruckers.substack.com.
In this episode we discuss a recent article / X thread from Craig Fuller, "Mom and Pops are Taking a Significant Share of the Trucking Industry" by Founder and CEO of Freightwaves.com with Jack, a logistics manager at a shipper in upper Michigan. Follow him at RustBeltKid on X!
In this episode you'll be introduced to Dominick Tullo, a fourth generation trucking company owner who's building and expanding on the generations before him who established T&R Oil Co, a fuel fleet in New Jersey located at the Tullo Truck Stop, a high-volume diesel stop.
In addition to the fuel fleet, Dominick expanded into DEF services and established 900 customers in just 3 years.
In this episode you'll hear his perspective of growing up in a family business and how he balances his time between maintaining and scaling his business and reinvesting in other ventures.
We met Marty Emale at the Texas Trucking Show in Houston earlier this year and were blown away by the app he recently launched, Bidspot.io.
Marty brought his experience as an owner operator hauling bulk materials and his Masters of Finance together to create a tool that helps owner operators know whether or not a given load will assist them in staying profitable while over the road.
We also discuss negotations, broker and carrier relationships, the importance of gratitude, and much more!
Follow Marty on Instagram
In this episode you'll we speak with Lora Andela!
Out of the 3.5 million truck drivers in the U.S., approximately 250,000 haul livestock.
And with only 6.6% of truck drivers being women, we suspect she's one of very few female livestock haulers in the country!
We don't know much about livestock hauling so it was great to not only get to know Lora and how she got into the industry but also learn the ins and outs of bullhauling.
We had a great time getting to know Gord Magill in this episode.
He's been trucking for over 30 years and has hauled in Canada, the U.S., New Zealand, Australia and the Ice Roads.
You can read more about his experience here.
We only scratch the surface in this conversation, but we talk about his work on his Substack which we highly encourage you subscribe to, Autonomous Truckers.
He's written and read extensively about what's happening in the freight industry and is working hard to do what he can to be a voice for the industry to create changes that positively impact drivers everywhere.
We also talk about Taylor Swift giving 100k to her drivers.
Prepare yourself to hear the Voice of Gord!
In this episode we speak with the hilarious Larry Cothran, who, if you're on Instagram and are in the trucking community, have definitely seen one of his hilarious videos.
While Larry may be known for his humorous reels and takes on trucking, he's also an Owner Operator, a Marketer, and a Triathalon athlete!
You'll hear about how Larry got into the industry, how he's lost over 50lbs while driving, how he stays fit over the road, his best advice to new drivers, the power of networking, and much more!
We also discuss the spat between Lombard Trucking (friend of the show) and "G Face", a TikToker who boasted about Double Brokering and how he teaches others how to do the same.
Enjoy!
In this episode Michael and Aaron are back in the studio together to talk freight.
The conversation starts with an impromptu chat about pricing in the freight market. How do you do it? What's your secret sauce? Care the share some ingredients? The cookbook? Send us a dm on Instagram @pdqamerica to speak about it on the show.
Then they chat about the pending Yellow strike, a bit about Barbie and Oppenheimer, and oh yeah, a Double Broker got through our team!
For part three of our Texas Trucking Show Mini Interview series you'll hear from three individuals covering three different aspects of the industry.
Gio w/ Clark Freightlines manages their Safety and has an awesome story about he transitioned from architecture to a full time gig in the industry he "couldn't get completely out of". This is another story of how family business keeps professionals in the industry and how Trucking Shows like the Texas Trucking Show attracts and retains talent in the industry.
Maria - TaxPro MultiServices is an entrepreneur who listened to her customers needs and pivoted her business to service the trucking industry and help her clients get started. She works close to the port of Houston and has helped many trucking entrepreneurs get their start and help them sustain their success through proper compliance.
Dr. Freddy Romero owns A+ Medical Examiners, which focuses 100% on providing affordable and high quality DOT physicals for the trucking and bus industries. In this conversation you'll hear an example of why it's important to focus on a niche and how to remain healthy over the road or over the course of your work day in the office.
We're back with another excellent mash up of interviews taken at the recent Texas Trucking Show in Houston TX. In this episode you'll hear from...
Allen Yanes of Strike Rock Logistics
He's a military veteran and new Owner Operator based out of Tennessee. We discuss how he's navigating today's trucking market, his message for brokers, and what he's learned so far from charting his own path.
Trucking w/ Dev on TikTok and YouTube
It was great to connect with Dev, a self-proclaimed "tanker yanker" who's trucking experience is primarily from hauling tankers throughout west texas. You'll hear us talk about his experience and why he's passionate about creating content about the industry for the industry as he builds his following on TikTok and YouTube.
Marty Emale of Bidspot
Marty is also an Owner Operator who also doubles as a tech platform founder. In this conversation you'll get to know Marty and hear about Bidspot, the technology platform he developed with a partner to help him stay profitable on every load.
We had an excellent time at the Texas Trucking Show last weekend in Houston! We had the opportunity to connect with many industry professionals and even had some mini-interviews while we are there. Here are two of them!
Brady High
https://www.legendtruckandequipment.net/pages/meet-the-legends
Denis LaRoche
https://www.stratagemlogisticsllc.com/
In this episode we speak with Todd Zeigler, CEO of TruckCoinSwap.com.
In December of last year, TruckCoinSwap successfully transacted the first-ever settlement of a freight invoice utilizing the blockchain and a non-security digital asset: the TCS (Polygon) Token.
In this episode you'll hear exactly what that means and the opportunity Todd and the TruckCoinSwap team sees in settling freight invoices on the blockchain for free, saving drivers from the % that can eat into their bottom line.
If you're into cryptocurrency, saving money by stopping using factoring, the new technology shaping the industry, and how TruckCoinSwap works, give it a listen!
In this episode of the podcast we wanted to feature some of the hottest clips from the show so far this year! You'll hear a range of logistics professionals give their hot takes and insight forged from the trenches to help you become the best freight professional you can be.
It also is tracked to music 🔥
Be sure to scroll through our library of shows featuring these guests in 2023 so far:
Chris Jolly
Brett Ekart
Gretchen Long - Long Money Trucking
Michael Lombard
Roland Balduc
Anne Reinke
Matthew Leffler
Niki Okuk & David Heller
Evan Shelley
Ricky Barnett
In this episode we get to know Justin Martin, Social Media Content Creator for FreightWaves.
Justin joined FreightWaves based on his experience in trucking and has developed the skill and ear to create freight media and pull together insights and people from all around the internet highway and report on what's happening now in the industry.
This is a wide ranging conversation about his career and trucking topics like the driver shortage myth, the freight market today, training (or lack thereof) available for truck drivers, and much more!
Be sure to follow him on Twitter and TikTok!
In this episode you'll hear an absolute FIRE conversation with Michael Lombard of Lombard Trucking. He's Connecticut born and bred, a former Marine, also played some lacrosse, moved to Texas in 2020 to follow a dream of starting a trucking career.
In this episode you'll learn more about the rich history of the Lombard name in the industry.
We start the episode we discus the new bill that just passed in Washington state that allows bathroom access for commercial truck drivers at shippers.
Then we jump into how Michael approaches his career as a truck driver as he works to bring a new energy for what it means to be a modern trucker that works with purpose and pride.
We also discuss...
Business strategy in down market
Fitness over the road
The pursuit of one's purpose
"Personal Excellence is the #1 Rebellion"
The importance of networking
and much more!
Follow Michael on the following platforms and listen to his podcast!
YouTube
TikTok
Evan K Shelley
Evan Shelley is Co-founder and CEO of Truck Parking Club, a company helping to provide parking for truckers by monetizing vacant properties for landowners. Evan is a truck parking expert with a deep knowledge of the business. Using his experiences in truck parking and real estate he is working to help solve the truck parking shortage and bring awareness to the issue.
TruckParkingClub.com
Truck Parking Club is a network of instantly reservable daily and monthly truck parking locations throughout the US. Truck Parking Club helps connect truckers to truck parking locations throughout the US via truckparkingclub.com. Our network is made up of property owners that have locations adequate for truck parking to list on the platform: this includes trucking companies, storage companies, CDL Schools, trailer leasing companies, real estate investors, truck parking operators and more!
In this episode, you'll hear Aaron, Michael, and Evan discuss the current state of truck parking, how Evan was introduced to the problem of truck parking, the future of truck parking in America, how land owners and trucking companies can get involved, and more!
In this episode we speak with Ricky Barnett, the Senior Talent Advisor at FreightVana!
You could also call her a "professional vibe curator" and "culture ambassador".
When you look at her LinkedIn you'll see how she promotes the FreightVana brand while maintaining her unique identity, which is important to this and future generations when they are choosing where to build a career.
In this converation you'll hear us discuss...
- company culture
- attracting and recruiting talent
- the business case for fun
- how she approaches content creation
- her top tips for smaller trucking companies when marketing
- how you can be more authentically you
and much more!
We're so excited to have had the opportunity to host this conversation between Niki Okuk and David Heller!
David is the VP of Safety and Govt Affairs for the Truckload Carriers Association, and has been on the podcast in the past. Check out that episode here. He's also advocating to the White House what his members think about electric trucking and believes there are many obstacles and issues in the way that must be resolved.
Niki is the Deputy Director of CALSTART, a nonprofit dedicated to accelerating to growth of clean transportation tech - and a veteran trucker herself. She's talking with truckers and fleet managers about why it's crucial for them to get ahead in this transition.
So we decided it would be great to bring these two together so they can help us learn about the subject through a conversation between two opposing sides!
What resulted was an excellent chat about charging infrastructure, the reliability of electric trucks, the affordability of electric trucks, what the point of all the changes are and much, much, more!
This is our 200th episode! Awesome!
Thank you so much for all your support through the years, whether you're a first time, long time, or last time listener. :)
This week is a timely episode designed to equip you and your team with the information to survive the annual International Road Check by the CVSA. It's May 16th-18th with an emphasis on brakes and cargo securement.
We got a true 1 hour master class from Rob Carpenter, an operations and risk consultant and former truck driver who has a wealth of knowledge for how to prevent and survive inspections - no matter when they may occur.
Some questions we cover include:
What are the most common mechanical violations that are cited during a DOT safety check, and how can I avoid them?
What should I do if I discover a mechanical issue during a pre-trip inspection, and how can I ensure that the issue is resolved before the DOT safety check?
Are there any particular items that are frequently overlooked during DOT safety checks, and how can I make sure that I am addressing these items?
What are the most common paperwork violations that are cited during a DOT safety check, and how can I ensure that I have all of the necessary documentation in order?
How can I stay organized and ensure that I am fully prepared for the DOT saftey check, including making sure that all of my paperwork is in order?
Are there any particular habits or practices that I should adopt to ensure that I am always in compliance with DOT regulations and requirements?
- a bunch more!
Don't miss this one, and send to your friend who drives or manages a fleet today!
In this episode, Aaron and Michael discuss a recent Freight Caviar Newsletter before speaking with Trey Griggs and Paul-Bernard Jaroslawski about brand messaging, their TIA Conference takeaways, double brokering and fraud, and what shippers want to see out of their brokerage partners!
In today's episode we're covering a topic we never have before, the U.S. DOT Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse!
As a Substance Abuse Professional, Joshua is currently helping truck drivers who are navigating the process to return to work after receiving a drug/alcohol violation.
If you have questions about the clearinghouse and what is involved for navigating it, this is an excellent primer for you.
Aaron and Joshua also talk about how to best support team members who are navigating this challenge.
Matthew Leffler, The Armchair Attorney (TM!) returns to the show to help us undertand the nooks and crannies of issues that are often debated in the logistics industry, namely non-competes, double brokering, and broker transparency.
To springboard the discussion we reference recent articles from Overdrive Online and Transport Topics.
If you've been given a non-compete to sign or believe you might one day, this episode is a can't miss!
If you're curious why more hasn't been done about double brokering from the FMCSA, you should listen to this episode!
If you're wondering what all the drama is about regarding broker transparency, PRESS PLAY!
Then be sure to connect with Matthew Leffler on LinkedIn so you can see his always insightful, clear, and concise arguments about these issues and more.
In this episode you'll hear Aaron and Michael chat with Reed Loustalout!
He's currently building LostFr8.com and has also utilized ChatGPT to have some fun with PleaseAdvise.ai.
He's a former carrier rep who's leveraging his experience in the industry to help create effeciency and develop new tools to help carriers and industry professionals connect!
Join his Discord by clicking here.
00:04:41 Trucking employment is rising.
00:05:27 Technology is revolutionizing trucking.
00:16:02 Carriers need better communication.
00:19:23 Truckers are hard to sell to.
00:22:15 Technology increases efficiency.
00:30:03 Technology is essential for success.
00:36:12 Try and bridge the gap.
00:41:06 Start now and don't stop.
00:45:02 Persistence is key.
00:51:04 AI will revolutionize tech.
00:56:06 Humans still needed for jobs.
00:57:44 Find your niche quickly.
01:02:40 Learn about AI technology.
In this episode you'll hear Michael and Aaron discuss this article from FreightWaves.
They also react to what thought leaders have to say about it on LinkedIn!
Do you have an opinion you'd like to share?
Email aaron@pdqamerica.com or send a message on Instagram @pdqamerica!
Have you ever seen an Instagram ad or profile promoting how easy it is to have passive income from the trucking industry if you just give them a bunch of money?
These Trucking Automation businesses say they'll get the truck, driver, dispatcher, loads, and take care of all the maintenance so you can sit back and collect the cashflow.
So we decided to talk to the founder of RivX Automation Antonio Rivodo who's enthusiasm for automating business operations has met the trucking industry.
In this episode we learn more about what trucking automation is and how he has continued to scale his business to bring clients this service. We even learn what trucking niche his fleet is involved in!
In this episode you'll hear a collection of clips from guests we've had some excellent conversations with so far this year. Be sure to check out these full episodes, as they are packed with wisdom to help you in your career!
Anne Reinke...on the value of freight brokerages, FMCSA and Double Brokering, and Non-Competes
Gretchen Long - Her best advice to carriers and shippers
Jenny Lovering - The next innovation driving the industry forward
Brett Ekert - Scrap Life and Advice to Shippers and Carriers
Samantha Jones - What it means to blaze a trail in logistics
Jeremy Wallin - What the best brokers do
Tiffany Wallin - Advice for Women in Trucking
Matt Dahl - Advice to small trucking companies and shippers
Matt Dahl is a Logistics Professional and Chess Player who likes to solve problems who is coming up on one year of experience as a freight broker.
In this episode we discuss his engaging LinkedIn content, his experience of logistics so far, how his sales experience and chess playing background influences his work today, and what he wants shippers and carriers to know about the work brokers do!
Connect with him on LinkedIn!
Michael and Aaron had a great time getting to know Jeremy and Tiffany Wallin!
Jeremy and Tiffany Wallin are newlywed team drivers with a love for truck driving and each other.
You can read about their story on Overdrive Online, but be sure to hear this episode where we learn more about Jeremy's career, how he and Tiffany met, and what it has been like for Tiffany to learn to drive and become an owner operator!
You'll hear them discuss today's trucking market, how they work with brokers, advice for new owner operators, how they work together and work towards their goals at this stage of their life.
Follow Tiffany @midnightbunny_girltrucker and Jeremy @teamwallin2022 on Instagram!
In this episode Aaron and Michael connect with Samantha Jones, the Vice President of Revenue for RocketShipping!
She has just over 4 years of experience in logistics, but as you will understand quickly in this conversation, she's more than qualified to share some valuable wisdom about LTL and logistics in general!
You'll hear about how she got into supply chain, her career trajectory, the difference between LTL and FTL, what makes a brokerage differentiated, how to grow as a leader, and much, much more!
In this episode we dive into what it means to drive a truck with a champion mindset!
As a 2 time Grand Champion of the National Truck Driving Championships, you could say Roland Bolduc is essentially the Patrick Mahomes of truck driving.
With over 2.5 million safe miles and decades behind the wheel, Roland puts his skills to the test every year at the National Truck Driving Championships so we decided to speak with him to learn all about it.
In this episode you'll learn what the NTDC is all about, how Roland Bolduc practices and trains, and how applicable the ultimate test of truck driving profeciency applies to his daily work delivering freight for FedEx.
You'll also hear how to get involved, as it is coming up very soon!
Check out the 2023 State Truck Driving Championship Schedule here!
Brett Ekart is a guy who was raised in a family business that started in 1972. His parents took over in 1997, and in 2015 Brett became the third generation taking advantage of the opportunities to continue building the business.
In addition to several scrap yards, Brett is running 40+ trucks.
In this episode you'll get an inside look into
- How Brett spends his time as a leader of multiple companies
- Empowering his employees
- Working with family and friends
- Working through failures
- Favorite books
- Playing offense
- Making good people decisions
- Overcoming the adversity throughout the journey
- and much more!
If you'd like join us on the show to discuss dispatching, email us at podcast@pdqamerica.com or hit us up on Instagram @pdqamerica or LinkedIn!
In this episode we have an excellent conversation with General Transportation Manager of Walmart, Jenny Lovering!
We learned a ton about what thinking goes on behind the scenes at one of the largest companies and shippers in the country!
Jenny is responsible for over 150 drivers in Walmart's fleet of 13,000!
In this conversation you'll hear how she got into Walmart, why she decided to stay and commit to moving up the ranks and taking advantage of the many opportunities they provide for those looking to take their career to the next level.
We also talk about INNOVATION - as it regularly comes up as a top of mind initiative for the folks at Walmart.
You'll also hear about an Innovative new program Walmart is expanding, their Associate to Driver program!
And that just scratches the surface of this excellent chat.
Enjoy!
You'll find out very quickly why Gretchen Long has over 80,000 followers on TikTok in this episode!
In this conversation Gretchen details the story of how she was introduced to dispatching at her old job leading a sales team by a truck driver. That was the spark of inspiration for her to learn everything she could about truck dispatching and a conviction to be the best dispatcher she could be.
Since then she's helped drivers stay profitable and others start their career in dispatching, and we learn a ton of tips and tricks that set the PROFESSIONAL dispatchers apart from the Wannabe's.
Be sure to give her a follow @longmoneytrucking!
What's the FMCSA doing about double brokering? What about "broker transparency"? What is the Transportation Intermediaries Association and what do they do anyway?
These questions and much more will be answered in this episode with Anne Reinke, President and CEO of the TIA.
In this episode you'll hear a bit of Anne's career experience leading up to taking the lead position at the TIA and her ongoing efforts to rebrand and provide a refreshed purpose to the TIA before diving deep on the subjects that effect drivers and brokers every day like double brokering, the relationship between brokers and drivers, the FMCSA's responsibility, and much more!
We've got a 3 Pick 1 Drop for you this week!
In this episode you'll hear some recordings from the archive of when Aaron and Nolan went down to TruckNHustle Fright Fest in Houston TX last November!
You'll also hear a conversation between Aaron and one of PDQ America's Logistics Coordinators, Kevin Leath!
This episode covers Hot Shot Trucking, Entrepreneurship, transitioning from the medical field to a freight brokerage, FreightFest takeaways, trucking risk management, and much more!
1) Brittany Stuart
2) Kevin Leath
3) Ladda Hawkins
Subscribe to the PDQ America YouTube Page here.
The Freight Coach is BACK on Trucking For Millennials to give us the freight motivation like nobody else can.
Chris is an industry veteran with his own podcast who's showing up daily on LinkedIn and with his clients to help them grow as logistics professionals.
In this episode, Michael, Aaron, and Chris discuss the start of the new year, what's new with Chris and Freight Coach Logistics, and his unfiltered thoughts on the FMCSA!
This is another PDQ America team special!
In this episode Aaron and Nolan Grush discuss how they are individually working to make 2023 the best year ever!
They discuss their own philosophy and approach for building relationships with customers and carriers, the importance of owning your expertise and approaching your role as a professional.
You'll also hear what carriers should do at this time of the year from a brokers perspective, and how carriers can work with freight brokers better through relationship building and communication.
In this episode you'll hear Aaron and Michael discuss 2022, 2023, and a few articles!
First they have a long overdue conversation about the FMCSA guidance to dispatchers regarding when they would be considered operating as a broker.
Then they discuss Elon Musks's Tesla Semi and Truck Driver's reaction to it (it isn't great)
Before discussing a recent survey that covered public's perception of safe driving for big rigs over the road, and whether or not knowing a truck has more safety systems inside it make young people more likely to drive them.
This conversation is full personal branding goodness and freight sales mental fortitude!
Gunner Miller is the Vice President of Sales at Twelve Point Logistics, podcaster on CWG Podcast, and pro wrestler.
You'll hear his story abou thow his pro wrestling career and logistics career started at the same time, how to balance and decide between careers, what it means to go "all-in", and he even drops some gems about selling freight.
Connect with him on LinkedIn, where he'll be posting every day for 2023 and be sure to subscribe to his YouTube.
We had a lot of fun getting to know Paul Gibson, co-host of Sense Per Mile podcast, co-founder of Bright Lights Media, former trucking industry driver recruiter and all around cool dude. We also had a short debate about Texas vs Kansas City KS BBQ.
In this episode you'll hear Paul's take on driver recruitment, a candid conversation about driver well being as well as his recent "HOS Experiment" which had him stay in a small storage closet at CDL Life HQ for 48 hours to see what it would be like for an office employee to work the same hours as a truck driver.
This started an excellent conversation about driver compensation and the importance of media, millennials, and the trucking industry working together to make the industry better.
Enjoy this conversation, connect with Paul, and keep up with the great work he's up to!
This episode is honest, transparent and filled with insight! That should be expected when you're speaking with Melanie Patterson of Team Integrity Knowledge Center.
You'll hear Melanie discuss the highs and lows of entrepreneurship as she's worked to make an impact in the trucking industry while making pivots along the way.
This conversation also showcases the risk and rewards in the industry and how think and operate like a business owner that is not only working in the business, but on the business.
If you're building a business and are looking for insights regarding leveraging your strengths, transitioning from one industry to the trucking industry, networking, and government contracting...you should not miss this episode!
Are you curious about cannabis transport? We were!
That's why it was great to get a message from Kyle of Top Shelf Transport on Instagram.
He's got many years of experience in the cannabis market and has recently leveraged that experience AND his experience owning and selling a moving company to start transporting cannabis across California where he's based.
Michael and I had fun getting to learn from Kyle about this growing industry and what his plans are for the future.
We start this episode expressing our thankfulness for the industry, our peers, our guests, listeners, and of course, the truck drivers that keep things running!
That's before we have a super fun interview with co-founder and head of growth at CarrierSource.io, Clara Flaherty.
CarrierSource is a growing platform that is focused on providing carriers a place where they can build trust and be given the kudos they deserve by brokers and shippers alike.
If you haven't checked it out yet, definitely do so!
What are you thankful for? Tell us! www.pdqamerica.com/thanks
This episode is an oversized load of practical wisdom that will help you no matter what role you have in the industry.
Dean Croke is the Principal Data Analyst for one of the largest load boards in the U.S., DAT.com. He's got an incredible mind for data analysis but he also has experience as a truck driver and owner/operator from his time in Australia before coming to the states.
You'll be amazed by his depth of knowledge regarding sleep, and how this subject is largely overlooked by our industry when it is so important to over the road safety.
As Dean says, "You can be 100% compliant with Hours of Service and completely asleep at the wheel at the same time".
In this conversation you'll learn about optimizing your sleep and your business for the road ahead as Dean has several insights about DAT rate data and what he thinks we're facing over the next 3 to 6 months.
We also play Load it or Leave it!
This episode is a superload!
You'll hear Michael and Aaron discuss the rumors of a fuel shortage before diving into the Top 10 Industry Issues from ATRI.
THEN, you'll hear 3 separate micro interviews taken from the floor of TruckNHustle FreightFest 2022!
You'll hear from former guests Mark Manera, Mysherri Rhodes, as well as hot shot owner operator, Craig Pierce of Pierce and Daughters Hotshot Trucking!
In this episode we discuss 2 articles and speak with DJ Flores, National Sales Director for Unishippers.
First we discuss a looming freight recession
Then we talk about the recent lawsuit TQL has entered that has garnered non-stop discussion about non-competes.
Then we chat with DJ Flores about his career, his experience with non-competes, leadership, building relationships, and much more!
In this episode you'll hear from host of the Transportation and Logistics Club and founder of Atlanta Dispatch Jorie Myers.
In this coversation you'll hear how Jorie started in the logistics industry after spending time overseas working on military bases before diving into the details of dispatching and the regulations (or lack thereof) on the dispatching side of the industry.
Nolan Grush, CTB is the Carrier Relationship Manager at PDQ America. It's his second time on the podcast and in this episode we discuss a range of topics including
- Freight Caviar's recent "on the street" interviews with truck drivers who have choice comments about freight brokers
- ATRI's report about truck crashes
- Elon Must updates Tesla Semi delivery to Pepsi
- Fun facts about Nolan
- Football predictions continue
- and more!
Connect with Nolan on Linkedin here!
In this episode you'll hear Aaron and Michael celebrate ANOTHER Cowboys win before discussing two articles: Truck brake light exemption denied despite industry support and Canada ending cross border vax requirements.
Then they welcome David Heller, Vice President of Government Affairs at Truckload Carriers Association and dive into David's role and the role of the TCA in advocating for their memebers and the industry as a whole to representatives in the halls of Congress.
This episode is full of excellent insight and actionable advice for anyone in trucking...ESPECIALLY if you're a mechanic, technician, service advisor, or have the ambition to be any of the three.
That's because we're sitting down with Landon Urban, General Manager of All Star Truck in Houston TX. And in this episode, we discuss everything from becoming a sought after employee, leading a team, earning trust with truck drivers, what truck drivers should watch out for when getting repairs away from home, parts shortage, and everything inbetween.
We also discuss Hurricane Ian as well as what the FMCSA and DOT have been up to regarding Truck Parking. Enjoy!
In this episode you'll hear Michael and Aaron discuss BrokerCarrier.com with the Founder and CEO, Kyle Provost!
Before diving into the details, you'll hear about Kyle's background in software development and how he got into freight, the relationship he has with Chris #TheFreightCoach Jolly, and his journey through entrepreneurship.
Kyle provides SEVERAL gems any entrepreneur can take and run with.
Then you'll hear about BrokerCarrier software and the problems it solves, and how impactful it can be to your carrier reutilization and expansion of your carrier network.
Check out BrokerCarrier.com and connect with Kyle on LinkedIn!
We kick this episode off with a quick celebration of the Cowboys win against the Bengals (even though we recorded before the game...) fingers crossed before discussing the Rail Strike and the tentative deal that's been reached.
Then we have a great discussion with LaShanta and LaTeasha, the compliance queens behind LLG Transportation Consultants.
In this conversation you'll hear how and why they started their business, their family roots in the industry, the steps they've taken to learn and grow their authority in their space and help their clients start in the trucking industry the right way! Check them out on their website.
Happy Truck Driver Appreciation Week to all the Truck Drivers out there! This week is all about the drivers who keep our goods moving, our shelves stocked, and who take the risks, make the investments and sacrifices to provide our world with everything you see around you.
We kick off this episode discussing truck driver appreciation week before jumping into an awesome conversation with Michael Nelms of Keep Trucking Transportation. He's a savvy serial entrepreneur who knows how to train and coach dispatchers for success. Check him out on Instagram and his website!
In this episode Aaron and Michael discuss a recent article from FreightWaves that asserts that "Shippers Revenge" is coming for truckload carriers. What are your thoughts on the recent shifts in the freight market?
The guys also discuss Aaron's experience at the recent TruckNHustle Reset Event in Houston TX in the last week.
Adeina Mars is a Business Development Specialist for Atlas Logistics that is approaching 5 years of experience in the logistics industry.
In this episode you'll hear how she got recruited into the industry, and how her reflections on her experience as she learned the ins and outs of freight brokering.
Then we discuss what she does at her current role at Atlas Logistics, which is a unique aspect of our industry that helps agents understand the many resources Atlas has available.
Adiena also shares her personal philosophy on work and life and how she practices it through her day to day work.
We're back! And today we have a special guest from our own office, Sophia Gonzalez! Sophia joined our team this year and we decided to have her share some tips on how to know you're working with a double broker and what to do to ensure the person you're sending a rate confirmation to is the one that's ACTUALLY moving the freight.
This conversation is inspired by a recent article form Overdrive Online.
We also talk to Michael about his recent trip to Europe!
Be sure to fill out our listener survey here!
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We're so grateful for every single listener! We'd love to hear your feedback about the show so we can make it even better for this next season.
Please complete this survey, as your feedback will help us know exactly what's important to you as we continue the show for the next year.
In this episode you'll hear some clips of some of our guests from the last season, including Brandon Johnson, Shelby from Happiness by the Mile, Mark Manera, Tyler Birkhofer, Will and Abbi of @semi_nomads and Adam Wingfield!
Kristy Knichel is the President & Owner of Knichel Logistics
Knichel Logistics is a very family-oriented business that focuses on Intermodal, LTL, and over the road transportation services.
In this episode you'll hear Kristy candidly and transparently speak about the challenges that she's faced in her experience working in the family business she's worked in for the majority of her professional career.
She talks about the highs and lows and the personal and professional struggles and victories she's experienced and lessons she's learned as she's grown as a leader and scaled the brokerage to be one of the top intermodal service providers in the country.
If you're in a family business or are simply looking for guidance for how to lead, this conversation will leave you with plenty of insight and inspiration!
Be sure to connect with Kristy on LinkedIn and check out Knichel Logistics online!
If you're in sales or marketing for a freight brokerage this is definitely one you should check out! Lina Acosta is the Chief Marketing Officer for GLT Logistics and also serves as a Chairperson and Member of the Board of Directors for the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association.
In this episode, you'll hear Lina share some excellent insight as a C-Suite executive on her approach to building a marketing department, outsourcing, her top marketing methods, and how the TMSA has impacted her career thus far.
Tandem has created an innovative way for conventional trucks to harness the power of battery power that's as easy as hooking up to an additional axle.
In this conversation you'll hear from Matthew and Paul Sabatini. These brothers are taking a paper napkin idea into real life with working prototypes of their first product, the Centaur.
The Tandem Centaur enables instant hybridization of class 8 trucks, immediately reducing emissions and fuel consumption on diesel fleets on the road now by up to 95% within minutes of connecting.
Hear their story about how they plan to revolutionize the industry and check them out online! www.drivetandem.com
Almost 2 years ago to the day we first connected with Rahmel Wattley, Founder/Host of the Truck N' Hustle podcast and it's been amazing to watch him grow it into one of the most powerful communities in the trucking industry today.
In this episode, Rahmel provides a masterclass of knowledge from his experience building the Truck N' Hustle into a media brand. If you're interested in learning more about social media, the trucking community, building an audience, and what's next with Truck N' Hustle, be sure to listen to this episode!
In this episode Aaron and Michael start with some breaking news happening in the logistics industry, the biggest headline being that the Supreme Court will not hear trucking's AB5 case, making it law for California carriers
Then they dive into a conversation with Kevin Sterling, Senior Market Strategist for XPO Logistics where they learn more about Kevin's role at the publically traded company and ask him about what he believes are the best strategies for small and mid-size carriers and brokers in today's logistics market.
Kevin provides a wealth of insight on the market, so be sure to check it out!
Also, if you're a California trucking carrier or freight brokerage, we'd love to hear from you about the recent AB5 decision. Send us a message on Instagram @pdqamerica or an email to Aaron@pdqamerica.com.
This week is all about Freedom! Released the week of American Independence Day, we're chatting with Andrew Lawton to learn everything that happened with The Freedom Convoy across the border in Canada.
Andrew is a journalist for True North, a broadcaster with his own podcast, The Andrew Lawton Show, and has recently released his first book titled The Freedom Convoy - The Inside Story of Three Weeks that Shocked the World.
In this episode you'll hear how Andrew got involved, what he learned from being on the front lines, how the Canadian public reacted and much more!
Be sure to check out his book for all the details!
Did you know there's an AirBNB or Turo for commercial vehicles and equipment? We didn't! Until we had this conversation with John Matheus and Romas Hicks of Coop.com
Coop is a Ryder company and is providing an innovative way for trucking companies or any commercial equipment owner to leverage their assets when and if they are sitting idle.
In this conversation you'll learn how Coop came to be, the advantages Coop has because they are a Ryder company, stories about investors using the platform to have a rental business on the side, how trucking companies can keep a truck making money while recruiting a driver, the particulars with insurance and maintenance and much more!
Check out Coop.com and be sure to connect with John and Romas on LinkedIn.
This episode comes from the trenches of freight brokerage. Every day, freight brokers send and receive hundreds of emails each week from customers and carriers.
In this episode we have a story of a freight broker, "T" was attempting to help a shipper sending their daily RFQ's to their list of brokers that their rates weren't keeping up with the current market.
So we called him! You'll him retell his experience and explain his perspective as Aaron and Michael share theirs as we all navigate the competitive freight broker market and work to find quality loads for quality carriers.
In this episode Michael and Aaron discuss a few stand out news articles from around the industry: Record Diesel Price
https://www.freightwaves.com/news/latest-doe-eia-weekly-diesel-price-is-a-record-high
Amazon exec departs to become Flexport CEO
https://www.freightwaves.com/news/clark-to-become-flexports-ceo-in-september
Uber Freight + Waymo Via
https://www.freightwaves.com/news/uber-freight-and-waymo-via-envision-autonomous-trucking-for-all
and more!
Then Aaron has a conversation with Jennifer Smith of JIT truck parts to discuss June being National Safety Month and a few parts that can help truck drivers be more safety over the road. Here are a few links to products referenced in the conversation:
HD Lighting: https://www.jittruckparts.com/electrical/lights-misc-electrical/headlights. Recommended brands: Match Made, Truck Lite, Grote.
CB Radios: https://www.jittruckparts.com/electrical/instrumts-radio/radios-speaker. Recommended brand: Pana-Pacific.
ADAS technologies – Recommended brand: WABCO: https://www.jittruckparts.com/wabco-brand
Mirrors: https://www.jittruckparts.com/cab-chassis/mirrors. Recommended brand: Velvac
Cameras: https://www.jittruckparts.com/electrical/lights-misc-electrical/misc-electrical. Recommended brand: Velvac
Enjoy!
We met Robert Brown, Chief Strategy Officer of Spartan Radar at the recent AUVSI conference where Michael was a panelist about automated vehicles in the commercial space. In this episode you'll hear us discuss many facets of the automated trucking world, and how Spartan Radar and radar technologies fit within it. If you're interested in learning more about how Radar, Lidar, and other sensor systems work to become a "co-pilot" in service to the driver, this is it! Robert also breaks down the levels of automation (Levels 1-5), we talk about Tesla, the overlap with EV's and AV's, when to expect this technology to hit mass scale, the current number of automated trucks on the road, and much more!
In this episode you'll hear from Guillermo Garcia, founder and CEO of SmartHop, a technology platform that equips carriers with everything they need to run a trucking business.
You'll hear how Guillermo started his logistics career in Venezuela and eventually came to the United States to start a trucking business.
He's now helping small carriers with dispatching, insurance, leasing, fuel, and payments.
Be sure to check out how SmartHop can help you via their website, and let us know what you think of this episode!
In this episode we talk about the problems that impact logistics and other industries with a man focused on solving them, Matthew Leffler. We discuss his point of view on non competes, technology, processes, people and how he approaches solving problems for small and large businesses with his role in his family business and law degree.
In this episode you'll hear our conversation with Mike Burney and David Olson, co founders of Riggy's, the first national network of branded truck parking! Trucks have already started parking at the 3 locations in the Houston area and Mike and Dave have big plans to expand Riggy's across the U.S. so that truck drivers have more places to park that are safe, convenient, and affordable.
In this episode you'll hear discussions about the problem of truck parking, why a national network of truck parking hasn't been done at this scale before, what you can expect when you decide to park at a Riggy's, the future of the Riggy's brand, and their close connection with the trucking industry that helps them know what truck driver's needs are.
Be sure to check out their website and book a space with them next time you're delivering in the Houston area!
FreightWaves and other media outlets are speculating that there's a "trucking bloodbath" on the way due to the sharp decline in dry van spot rates and rise in fuel prices.
In this episode, we discuss how Tyler started as an owner operator shipping dry van freight in February and how he's navigating the current trucking market.
We also discuss moving from being a police officer to starting a career in trucking, working with brokers and running off the loadboards, his tech stack, building a family business and much more!
In this episode Rachel Premack joins us on the show to discuss the potential for a Trucking Bloodbath 2.0!
We also discuss insurance costs, driver pay, today's freight market for dry van vs flatbed, Elon buying Twitter, and more!
Sign up for Rachel's newsletter, MODES!
https://www.freightwaves.com/modes
Enjoy!
This week Michael's out and Nolan Grush is IN!
Nolan Grush is the Carrier Relations Manager for PDQ America, so it was great to "talk shop" after a long week moving loads.
In this conversation you'll hear how Nolan got into freight and logistics, what he does for PDQ, what frustrated him about today, what makes a great dispatcher and great freight brokerage and much more.
Enjoy!
Trey Griggs w/ BETA Consulting Group returns the show shortly after stepping off stage at the recent TIA Capital Ideas Conference in San Diego CA! We also speak with him about the future of work with topics including:
Work from Home
Leading your team with accountability
Setting standards and upholding them
Starting a business and moving strategically
Empathy and happiness in the work place
Takeaways from TIA Capital Ideas Conference
and much more!
In this episode you'll hear our converstion with Bharath Krishnamoorthy aka "B" of Axle Payments.
This is an excellent episode of your a freight broker looking to scale your business faster as Axle helps freight brokers gain access to capital for quick payments to carriers and automates back office functions so you spend more time selling freight than managing the paperwork.
This is also a great episode for anyone starting up a business, especially one that is tech focused. B knows what it's like to start a new business with friends, learn a new industry fast, and raise money from investors - all topics we cover in this conversation, plus much more!
Enjoy!
This episode will make you think BIG. Aaron Moneypenny is "The Trucking Guy" who shares his insight on the trucking industry via his YouTube and Instagram and consults owner-operators and new entrepreneurs on the best practices of running a trucking business.
In this episode we talk with Aaron about fuel prices and how to navigate the changing market, attending the 10X Growth Conference and the value of networking, and his book!
Enjoy!
This conversation is a long time coming! Co Founder and Carrier Experience Officer Grant Goodale speaks with us from a corner booth at the Mid America Trucking Show after a trip with 3 different truck drivers who use the app every day.
We also discuss Convoy's freight network, it's steady growth as a leader in the freight-tech space, how they're collaborating with freight brokers in a new way, and much much more!
We know you'll get a lot of value out of this conversation with one of the brightest minds in the business!
Joining Armstrong in 2014, Scott Watanabe serves as Director of Training and Agent Development for Armstrong Transport Group. Also known as "The Freight Sensei," Scott oversees new hire training, agent mentoring, and continuing education through professional development. He is skilled in negotiation, operations management, and customer and carrier sales.
In this episode we discuss how he trains and coaches his team, how fuel price negotiations work on the brokerage side, the traits successful freight brokers have, and much more!
In this episode we're discussing what is on everyone's mind right now - record high fuel prices.
The recent .70 jump has increased costs for everyone but the trucking industry is the first in line to feel it's effects the most.
We reached out to owner-operator JeRon Hamm of Pro-Haul TV to discuss how he's pivoted his approach to his business as he continues to run his 10 truck fleet.
We discuss the impact fuel costs have on carriers, the strategy to stay profitable, rate negotiations, whether or not to park your truck, and much more!
Be sure to follow JeRon on Instagram as he regularly shres his insight and expertise.
We're excited to introduce you to Shannon Butler, Director of Human Resources / In-House Counsel at BR Williams Trucking.
In this conversation you'll hear Shannon, Michael, and Aaron discuss the ins and outs of Human Resources in trucking, and how she transitioned from the Healthcare industry and continues to grow her expertise in logistics.
Topics include:
HR in trucking
HR and the Law
Pivoting through COVID-19
How BR Williams became a 2021 Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation
How to "health check" your HR department
How smaller companies can set themselves up for success in HR
Promoting a positive and inclusive Company Culture
and much more!
This episode begins with a chat between Michael and Aaron about current news, namely:
Ukraine & Diesel Prices
Truck Thefts in Texas
& Truck Parking Letter sent to Pete Buttigeg
Then they have a great conversation with Jeremy Reymer, Founder and CEO of DriverReach.
If you're a Logistics Recruiter or a Carrier struggling to find drivers this episode is FILLED with actionable advice and expert insight into how you can make those placements and keep your drivers happy.
There's also plenty more to talk about like technology, development, cross generational recruitment, and much more!
In this episode Michael and Aaron recap the Super Bowl before diving into 3 different news stories making there way around the industry.
-
The Freedom Convoy continues to make headlines inside and outside of trucking
-
Diesel prices are hitting record highs, impacting rates and negotiations
-
Waymo has started working with freight brokerage CH Robinson by having their autonomous trucks cover some of their lanes in Texas
We discuss all of this and even get a truck driver, Rickey Hill of RTJ&I Trucking to share his comments on all three subjects!
Enjoy!
In this episode you'll meet Will and Abby aka @Semi_Nomads (IG) @Semi_Nomads (TikTok) / @Ghost_River_Trucking! Will has been trucking for over 9 years and Abby jumped in the passenger seat a few months ago so that they could see the nation together!
They haul flatbed freight and plan their routes so they can mountain bike, ski, and rock climb when they have extra time in beautiful places throughout the country.
This was an excellent conversation for any truck driver, spouse of a driver, or team drivers (romantically involved or not) as Will and Abby share how they work together on loads, how Abby is learning to be the best in a new industry, the challenges and sacrifices that come when starting your own authority, staying fit over the road, and much more!
This is an excellent example of why we created the Trucking For Millennials podcast, as they were listeners from our generation building a lifestyle that works for them within the trucking industry we all love!
Happy Valentines Day!
Here's an episode from us like you've never heard before!
The Big Game coming up had the team thinking about what creates a championship level team, so we brought a couple of our new team members, Sophia and Adrian, to discuss how their experience has been since coming on board a few months ago.
We also discuss the "Freedom Convoy" again and discuss a tweet from FreightWaves founder and CEO Craig Fuller.
Who's your pick to win? Let us know!
This episode is full of Awesome! We start the show discussing recent tweets by Elon Musk showing support for Canadian truck drivers protesting the vaccine mandates in the country and dive into whether or not their protest will result in a World Record! Then we speak with Michael Vega-Sanzand Rafi Benzaquenof Lula Trucking. Lula Trucking provides access to affordable insurance, easy to file claims, through an intuitive online portal. They also provide pay-per-day insurance specifically for the commercial vehicle market, so you only pay for insurance on the days your truck is running.
This conversation is filled with insight and discussion about today's insurance market, Michael and Rafi's careers, the challenges they face, the opportunities they are capitalizing on, and much more!
Their solution is venture funded and they have a heart for trucking and ambition to make Lula the best trucking insurance experience available today.
Check out www.lulatrucking.com to learn more!
Vanessa Gant aka "The Money Architect" is an Accountant and Tax Strategist who has a vast amount of accounting experience and has forged a niche in transportation and logistics accounting.
For the past 15 years she has worked with both small and large companies that had strained as well as positive cash flows. Her expertise entails engineering a design to increase net profits by 35% and to grow and scale your transportation and logistics business within 18 months.
The best part is she does all of this while reducing your tax liability and keeping your company compliant with all federal and state tax guidelines.
In this episode you'll hear our conversation with her about a variety of topics including how she got started in the logistics industry, how she assists trucking companies of all sizes to reach their goals and grow their business through proper money management, tax tips, career advice for accounting professionals and much more!
In this episode we speak with Andy Bahr, President of Bahr Transportation!
This is an excellent conversation between two brokerages focused on different commodities - whereas PDQ America focuses on flatbed freight, Andy is positioning his business to assist shippers of food and beverage.
You'll hear a conversation that covers a lot of ground about the unique aspects of food and beverage transportation and how Andy has implemented values and processes to make each shipment successful.
We also hear how Andy thinks about gaining new customers, building carrier networks, managing rejected freight, communicating with drivers, his vision for the company and what he's learned along the way since starting the business 3 years ago after 4 years of experience working in a large brokerage.
Be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn and check out his podcast, Food & Beverage Leaders Podcast!
In this episode we connect with Hotshot Macc who is currently running non-CDL hotshot with plans for much more!
He and his wife traveled the country via RV before they decided to jump into the trucking industry and are now documenting their journey and have already amassed over 30k YouTube subscribers on their channel.
In this conversation you'll hear how Hotshot Macc and his wife got started, how they work together, balancing YouTube creation and running their business profitably, and much more! Be sure to give them a follow and subscribe!
We're back with Chris Jolly to launch us into a new year full of optimism and great conversation on a variety of topics.
On this episode we waste no time jumping into relationships freight brokers have with dispatchers, before discussing the #1 question Chris receives from his clients.
Then we discuss the ports and what we expect from the supply chain congestion in 2022, what the infrastructure bill could do, and the upcoming vaccine mandate for employers of 100 people or more.
We also have some conversation about football and touch on much more!
In this episode you'll hear a heavy haul truck driver's opinion on the recent sentencing of the Colorado truck driver who killed 4 people and injured dozens of others after not taking emergency ramps and how the media and public has reacted.
Then we provide snippets of the top 11 episodes of the Trucking For Millennials podcast!
Enjoy and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Have you followed @FreightCaviar on Instagram yet?
They have some hilariously relatable memes if you're in logistics, especially freight brokering so we wanted to have him on to talk about how he creates the ideas, his journey of growing the account to over 15,000 followers in just a few years, double brokering, and his trip to Armenia which involved a VERY interesting story!
Enjoy and MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Pierre Laguerre is the founder and CEO of Fleeting.us, who's vision is to leverage modern technology to create a platform that improves the commercial freight industry by intelligently matching truck owners, drivers and shippers / brokers.
In this episode you'll hear Pierre's inspiring story of how he immigrated to the US from Haiti and through his entrepreneurial journey found his way into trucking and becoming a driver, owner operator, staffing agency owner, and eventual founder of Fleeting, which has raised millions of dollars in funding through competitions, tech accelerators and direct investors.
You'll also hear Pierre's perspective on carrier and broker relationships and the greater purpose that propels him to not only create more success, but be a leading example to youth in marginalized communities.
LoShawn Parks is a trucking company owner, podcaster and YouTuber approaching 40k subscribers!
He's an excellent resource and example for anyone in trucking to subscribe and follow.
In this episode, you'll hear how he got into trucking in the first place and a conversation covering:
Truck Leasing
Buying a Truck in Today's Market
What motivates LoShawn
Scaling Smart
and more!
James "Tex" Crowley is the Creative Director and Partner of Texas Media Foundry out of Bryan Texas.
You should definitely connect with him on LinkedIn if you're interested in seeing some of the best trucking videos available online today.
In this episode you'll hear how he got involved in trucking through Six Flags, how he started his journey learning the ins and outs of video editing and uploading to YouTube while he was truck driver, and we dive into what makes great content online and what results trucking companies ( and any company, really) can experience with a commitment to high quality media production.
Be sure to check out their website if you're looking to increase your audience online.
Today we have the inspiring story of Clarence Bethea, who Michael connected with this week at a recent event.
Clarence is the CEO of Upsie, a warranty company which saves its customers anywhere from 50% to 90% compared to competitor warranty plans.
While his main area of focus is not trucking, Clarence found himself on the path of personal and professional growth through an opportunity that began in the trucking industry.
Throughout the conversation you'll hear how Clarence transformed himself from a talented basketball player with a criminal history and not much education to being mentored by the former COO of Best Buy.
His experiences in trucking and mentorship helped shape him into the businessman he is today and have value for anyone looking to lead teams and scale businesses to their real potential.
Be sure to connect with him on Linkedin and check out Upsie.com!
Today's episode is a Trucking For Millennials International Special! We speak with Nick Roemer, Director of Marketing for Cibus21.
Nick joins the show from Scotland, where he is working with Cibus21 to assist fleets in reducing their fuel costs and and reduce the carbon footprint for diesel vehicles in the UK and U.S.
We also take the opportunity to speak with Nick about the truck driving culture in the UK to see what similarities and differences there are between trucking in the United States.
Nick also has a background in office design, so we decided to ask him about what makes a well designed office that helps improve productivity. Be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn!
This episode is FILLED with a truckload of news from around the country that directly relates to what's happening in today's supply chain and current political environment.
First, Michael shares some entertaining stories about stuff that has nothing to do with trucking but are fun nonetheless.
We also shout to a 5-star fan who delivered donuts to the office for us!
Then Aaron and Michael provide an overview of what's in the $1.5T Infrastructure bill and what it has to do with the trucking industry before discussing what the Biden administration's vaccine mandate's impact could be for businesses under 100 employees.
Then they shout out Edward Durr, a truck driver who now has a state senate seat in New Jersey after spending significantly less on his political campaign than his opponent.
THEN they dive into the recent move into the brand new PDQ America office and the experience of bringing on 5 new employees into the business - all while moving a lot of freight this week.
Enjoy!
In this episode we speak with a legend in the trucking and logistics industry, Adam L. Wingfield of Innovative Logistics Group!
You'll hear him speak about how trucking businesses can increase their entrepreneurial knowledge, bring compliance scores in line, and optimize profitability.
If you're looking for a trusted and experienced resource that can help you take your trucking business to the next level, you definitely don't want to miss this episode!
We also speak to Adam about today's supply chain bottleneck at the ports on the west coast and what insights he hopes to gain from his upcoming trip to California where he plans on rolling up his sleeves and getting a better idea of what's happening.
We talk about what the nation's leadership should be focusing on when it comes to the nation's supply chain, the influence on the media on small trucking business owners and the trucking industry itself, and much more!
In this episode Aaron and Michael discuss some things happening in the supply chain, namely the lack of available trucks increasing to 80,000, the Biden Administrations answer to the supply chain bottleneck at the ports, and the steady increase in fuel prices around the country.
They also shout out to a 5 star fan, talk about Pablo Excobar's cocaine hippos, and plenty of other random stuff!
We left this conversation with Brandon Johnson of @nextlevelhotshot and @be.logistics fired up!
Brandon had a truckload of wisdom to share from his experience as an entrepreneur and the attitude and principles that have created a winning system for growth.
In this episode you'll hear...
Why it's more important to Sustain than to Start on your way to Scaling
Getting real about starting a business
The 2 things every entrepreneur needs to succeed
How to hire and develop the right team
The value of competition in business
Determining true value
Being a principled person
...and much, much more!
This episode is brought to you by RoseRocket.com - Modern trucking companies need modern software. Say goodbye to spreadsheets, manual processes, and contentious phone calls with your partners or customers asking where their freight is. With the Rose Rocket transportation management software, you can automate every part of the order— from automated order entry, to self-serve quoting, to advanced dispatching and on-demand track & trace — Rose Rocket makes running your business easier and more efficient. Visit roserocket.com to learn how the Rose Rocket TMS can streamline your business operations.
Sharae Moore joins us for a second time on Trucking For Millennials! She's been up to a lot for the last two years so we decided to catch up with her.
In this episode you'll hear how she taught Bobby Bones how to drive a truck and deliver a load of eggs in just 24 hours.
Sharae was also featured on CNN's Champions for Change, where her story was highlighted by CNN for the community she's built and how her work is creating more opportunity for women and children in the industry.
We also discuss her recent SHE Trucking Expo 2021, where more than 1,000 people attended an event made for drivers during Truck Driver Appreciation week.
We also discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion and how the industry can come together to help everyone create a legacy.
Sharae also has a new book available on Amazon: Building a Legacy: How I Create a Life-Changing Legacy in the Trucking Industry! Pick it up today!
Big thanks to our sponsor, RoseRocket!
Modern trucking companies need modern software. Say goodbye to spreadsheets, manual processes, and contentious phone calls with your partners or customers asking where their freight is. With the Rose Rocket transportation management software, you can automate every part of the order— from automated order entry, to self-serve quoting, to advanced dispatching and on-demand track & trace — Rose Rocket makes running your business easier and more efficient. Visit roserocket.com to learn how the Rose Rocket TMS can streamline your business operations.
We are thrilled to have Lindsey Trent and Dave Dein, co-founders of NextGenTrucking.org who's mission is to promote trucking as a positive career field; create programs that encourage CDL and Diesel Technician training of our nation’s youth; and connect them to training and employment opportunities. The organization’s volunteer leadership consists of industry professionals who are passionate about trucking, career technical education, and providing our emerging workforce with a pathway to well-paying and rewarding careers.
You'll also hear from Diego, a student who is currently going through the program.
NextGenTrucking is helping the trucking industry access billions of dollars of funding for education programs that other industries already take advantage of every year.
Listen in to hear what their program does, how students can benefit, the potential impact for the industry, how you can get involved and much, much more!
This episode is brought to you by RoseRocket.com - Modern trucking companies need modern software. Say goodbye to spreadsheets, manual processes, and contentious phone calls with your partners or customers asking where their freight is. With the Rose Rocket transportation management software, you can automate every part of the order— from automated order entry, to self-serve quoting, to advanced dispatching and on-demand track & trace — Rose Rocket makes running your business easier and more efficient. Visit roserocket.com to learn how the Rose Rocket TMS can streamline your business operations.
In today's episode we're speaking with Rob Doherty, Key Account Lead with RoseRocket.com. Rob has over 10 years of experience in the transportation industry and currently works for Rose Rocket customers to help them better connect with their customer through an optimized software solution like Rose Rocket TMS.
We chat with him about how he got into the industry and eventually became employee number 9 at RoseRocket which has grown to over 100 employees in a short amount of time.
If you're a freight broker shopping for a new TMS or are curious about how the latest technology is impacting trucking companies and freight brokerages now, this is a don't miss!
Big thanks to our sponsor, RoseRocket!
Modern trucking companies need modern software. Say goodbye to spreadsheets, manual processes, and contentious phone calls with your partners or customers asking where their freight is. With the Rose Rocket transportation management software, you can automate every part of the order— from automated order entry, to self-serve quoting, to advanced dispatching and on-demand track & trace — Rose Rocket makes running your business easier and more efficient. Visit roserocket.com to learn how the Rose Rocket TMS can streamline your business operations.
In this episode we are joined by Zach Miller, creator of NewYorkTruckStop.com and Host of STTTREAM, an industry focused show brought to you by TruckTractorTrailer.com.
Zach is a New Yorker and very active in his advocacy for the trucking industry in the state.
We start our conversation by discussing the recent vaccine mandate issued by President Joe Biden which mandates vaccinations for all workers in business over 100 employees or weekly testing.
We use two articles from FreightWaves to springboard the discussion:
https://www.freightwaves.com/news/the-day-after-trucking-ponders-what-vaccination-mandate-means-for-industry
https://www.freightwaves.com/news/biden-vaccine-mandate-may-worsen-low-driver-retention-rates
Once we wrap up discussion on these topics we chat about Zach about his career and his work in advocating for truck drivers and the industry as a whole in New York.
What do you think about the vaccine mandate? Let us know via YouTube!
Our guest this episode is Shelby (@happiness_by_the_mile on Instagram).
She's grown a following of over 50,000 followers on Instagram and over 250,000 YouTube subscribers through documenting her journey as a truck driver with FedEx Ground.
In this episode you'll hear how she dropped out of college, jumped in a truck and never looked back. She's now running her own trucking company with a focus on ensuring her drivers are fulfilled.
Shelby has an excellent story and has plenty of wisdom to share despite being so early in her career.
We're into season 3 of Trucking For Millennials so we gathered a few favorite clips from episodes from last season you definitely don't want to miss!
Avery Vise – Why he's bullish on trucking in the next 6 months - What he expects rates to do for the remainder of 2021 and 2022
Giovanni Pereira – Living in a van during CDL school – why millennials aren’t getting into trucking (hard work)
Terry Roden – Grabbing the money – Lamborghini and Hot Shot Trucking
Trista Roel – Starting a business in 2020 – what steel shippers need
Shay Dixon – Finding success within a niche and building a team
Mysherri Roads – the GPS system to build a million dollar trucking business Growth, Profit, Systems
JD Redmon – Diversity in Leadership
Prasad Gollapalli – The future of carrier/broker relationships
Mark Manera has made it his mission to help drivers across North America have a healthier life in and out of the truck.
In this episode you'll hear how Mark, who is undergoing a doctorate in physical therapy how working with a truck driver inspired him to take his knowledge of diet and exercise to truck drivers through a new mobile app and online community at www.truckinfit.com.
We ask him about how truck drivers can improve their health through exercise inside and outside of the truck and make healthy choices in their diet without making a huge change that isn't sustainable.
Be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn!
We had a great conversation with Jackie Beckwith about how advocacy groups like the ATA and OOIDA get things done in the halls of government.
Jackie's background as Grassroots Program Manager with the ATA and her current role as the Manager of Advocacy and Government Relations for Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).
AUVSI is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of unmanned systems and robotics and Jackie is tasked with advocating for organizations like TuSimple to pave the path of regulation necessary for the burgeoning automated commercial vehicle segment.
This episode will give you inside on today's trucking market through the expertise of Avery Vise, VP of Trucking for FTR Intelligence, which provides qualitative analysis with historical and moadal-specific insights to help trucking companies, freight brokerages and shippers evaluate market risks and identify market opportunities.
In this episode, Avery shares his perspective about what's happening in the U.S. economy and what that means for transportation now and what we could expect in the next 6-12 months.
We also ask him about a recent report that has caught FTR's radar, the recent influx of new carrier entrants, mostly smaller trucking outfits that are venturing out on their own from larger carriers.
There's a bunch to unpack here and it is definitely a worthwhile listen regardless of your current role in transportation.
Travis is a Trucking For Millennials podcast listener and General Manager of Condesa Freight International.
Condesa was started by his grandfather in 1972 and in this episode you'll hear a bit about the history of the business that currently has 65 trucks south of the border and 18 trucks north of the border with 152 total dry van units they use to ship freight into and out of Mexico.
It's an excellent conversation that covers the nuances of export and import shipments, insurance claims, what drivers and brokerages should know before getting into cross border freight and much more!
Jacob aka Mud Duck aka Google aka Cheeks aka Quality Control Roberts is a driver for McCune Trucking and we talk with him about his working hauling dirt and other material in belly dumps. Something we don't know much of anything about!
We also speak with him about what he's learned being the youngest person at the company he works for, the importance of brotherly love toward competitors and having pride in your work and much more! Follow him on Instagram @the_jake_breakshow!
Meet Lida Hakobyan, a former banker in Armenia to American immigrant who has driven reefer trucks and is now living the American Dream as a freight agent for Freight Tec and a small fleet of her own!
In this episode you'll hear about Lida's appreciation for America and what it's like being an immigrant taking advantage of the opportunities the logistics industry provides, her perspective on truck drivers who haul different types of freight, what she enjoyed about truck driving and her experience as a female truck driver, her experience as a freight agent and much more!
Be sure to connect with her on LinkedIn!
We had a great conversation with Founder and CEO of MavenMachines, Avishai Geller!
Avi is an MIT graduate with a wealth of experience in computer science and saw the opportunity to bring his knowledge to the trucking industry to provide a comprehensive solution to increase operational efficiency, improve safety, and maximize profitability.
In this episode we dive into his motivations for building Maven Machines, how he recruits talent into his business, how Artificial Intelligence is the future and now of trucking, and much more!
This episode with Jeff Jenkins of RTA Fleet Management Software is FILLED with insight from Jeff's two decade career in trucking.
We start by diving into his career which serves as an excellent example for someone interested in learning more about how to climb the career ladder in logistics.
Jeff entered in the industry by "dumb luck" and over time became an executive in large fleets and eventually CEO Fleetwood Transportation Services and Sharkey Transportation.
Now he's the VP of Sales and Marketing for RTA Fleet Management Software which has provided new challenges and opportunities, which we also discuss.
RTA has also recently launched The Fleet Success Show, a podcast focused on helping fleet managers run successful fleets. Be sure to check it out on your favorite podcast platform.
Enjoy!
On our most recent episode, we take a trip outside of transportation and logistics to learn more about an industry we serve, steel!
It was great to learn more about the industry from a business owner from our local community, Trista Roel, CEO/Owner of Pride Metals.
This is a unique episode as Pride Metals is a company we work with. We speak with her about being a woman in a male dominated industry, what she's looking for when speaking with transportation companies and much more!
On this episode of Trucking For Millennials we're highlighting some trucking news.
Articles we're discussing:
Trucking Notches Wins in Lawsuit Abuse Legislation
J.B. Hunt, Waymo partner to Test Self-Driving Trucks
U.S. House Highway Bill Preview
Plus, we have a special bonus segment! We're joined on the show by Brian Wise, who recently joined the PDQ America team. He's a former truck driver with 10 years behind the wheel who's now in the brokerage seat, connecting with carriers every day.
We speak with him about how the transition has been and are excited to bring him back from time to time as he continues his logistics career from a different perspective.
Let us know what you think!
This conversation with Matt Dipilato of ARKA Express is a must listen! We dive into Matt's 14 year career and learn how he's made it to the C-Suite of a 500+ truck carrier.
We talk about the importance of educating oneself, networking, and taking ownership of what needs to be done.
He's got an excellent story about his time serving as a leader in the Traffic Club of Chicago and how he and his team has shifted the driver culture of ARKA Express through the newly launched National Driver Council within the organization.
This episode is full of insight for anyone looking to become a leader in logistics and create an environment where drivers WANT to work and feel valued.
Listen to this awesome conversation with T.J. Knudson, Director of Regional Development at Circle Logistics. T.J. is an innovative leader in logistics & supply chain, and host of Hold My Beer, We're Talking Freight Podcast.
We discuss the value of staying with one company through his career, how he's grown and learned over time, how he equips others to be leaders, and how he keeps freight fun around the office.
Let us know what you think and be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn!
The Trucking For Millennials Podcast has hit a milestone - 100 episodes! So we through a Friends in Freight Party with some past guests and streamed it via YouTube.
This episode is a great conversation with Wayne "Trucker Wayne" Cragg, who's been through a tremendous journey to improve his health, Gerald Albritton of Major Clout Trucking who's built his trucking business from 1 to 5 trucks and he's preparing to get his next 2, Trey Griggs, the VP of Lean Sales who's got some excellent personal and professional goals and knowledge to share (as always), Blythe Brumleve of Digital Dispatch and host of FreightWaves show Cyberly for all things freight marketing, and Chris Jolly, #TheFreightCoach!
Thank you for your continued support and here's to another 100!
This episode is full of tactics and strategies that will help small fleets and large fleets alike seat truck drivers!
Amrit has placed over 900 truck drivers for a variety of carriers across the U.S. and Canada and currently helps trucking companies optimize their recruiting efforts.
You'll hear the biggest mistakes companies make when recruiting, the best practices for attracting drivers to your open position, and more! Be sure to connect with Amrit on LinkedIn, Subscribe to his YouTube Channel.
Carlin Stafford is on air talent and a voice actor for the Truck Boss Show, a trucking news and media outlet with over 850,000 views on YouTube and 150,000 likes on Facebook.
We chat with him about the media's role in trucking, stories he's worked on or working on like AB5 and the PRO act, trucking wrecks, how the trucking industry can garner greater respect in the public eye, the importance of calling legislatures, and much more!
Be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn and follow/subscribe to Truck Boss!
In this episode our friend Chris Jolly joins the show to join us in speaking with TJ Blackwell, owner of Blackwell Logistics, a Dispatch Service to discuss a recent article by FreightWaves "Truck Brokers want Congress to Call Out Illegal Dispatching" reporting the TIA's recent request that the FMCSA crack down on dispatch service companies acting like brokerages.
We also discuss the recent viral article that discusses how one Texas company is offering Owner Operators $14k a week and a bill that recently passed the Texas House that would limit liability for trucking companies.
Jon is a millennial truck driver and YouTuber who's been driving for 3 years. He's driving over the road a few weeks at a time before he has 2 days off, and he was kind enough to spend an hour of one of those days with us!
We speak with him about how he got into the industry, his insight on what carriers could do to better recruit younger drivers, how he maintains a social life outside of trucking, his YouTube channel and more!
Follow him @TruckingSeriously and subscribe to his YouTube channel by clicking here.
Marcus one of our first guests and we're happy to have him back to get an update on the progress he's made on his app, Duke.AI. Duke.AI is an automated bookkeeping and accounting app that allows drivers to scan documents with their phones and automate their bookkeeping and factoring invoicing.
Listen to learn how Marcus discovered this issue in his trucking company and used his software development background to create a solution that continues to improve in functionality.
Be sure to connect with Marcus on LinkedIn also!
In this episode we speak with Dallas Racklin, CTB, Sales and Marketing Manager for AM Transport out of Olney, IL.
We speak with him about how he and his team are working to make their rural midwest freight brokerage more efficient through technology, how they emphasize and incentivize their employees to make a vibrant culture, the value of TIA's Certified Transportation Broker exam, how to select the right technology to gain an edge, keeping the business fun, and much more!
Be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn and don't forget to subscribe!
We're coming in hot this week with the latest news that's impacting the trucking industry including the hot trucking market now that business is back, Biden's infrastructure plan, and TuSimple Autonomous trucking going public!
Then we get into the Load it Or Leave it Debate and talk about the commercialization of Rest Stops and whether or not drivers that are under 21 should be able to drive interstate.
Nathan operates Billy's Pilot Cars, which you may have seen on Instagram or TikTok @billyspilotcars
We speak with him about insurance, "Wal-Mart Pilot Cars", driver communication, route planning, building relationships, and what new pilot car drivers should do!
This is one conversation you shouldn't miss - 26 year old Giovanni Pereira shared his story with us and it is inspiring to say the least.
Starting at age 23, Gio has been focused on being the best truck driver he can be and through his work ethic and guidance of his mentors he's built a solid career for himself - as evidenced by an impressive truck and trailer set up - a 2016 Freightliner T6580 and a 3 axle step deck with ramps.
In this episode we talk about the advantages of the step deck trailer, the value of mentors, using trucking as a vehicle for big goals, and much more!
If you're interested in seeing his truck, be sure to check out the video of this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/_Uxd7ckKoLY
If you're in logistics and you're not connected with Michael Neme, are you really in logistics?
Michael consistently shares his valuable insights with supply chain professionals in a variety of industries based on his experience with Worldwide Express, Blue Grace Logistics, Trinity Logistics, and currently as an independent Supply Chain and Operations Consultant for GlobalTranz.
We speak with him about what it's like working as an independent freight agent, the power of being uniquely (and sometimes awkwardly) yourself, leveraging LinkedIn to connect with decision makers, his cold call pitch, and how he focuses on assisting CPG eliminate ineffeciencies and increase their bottom line through the supply chain solutions he's experienced at delivering.
Don't forget to connect with him on LinkedIn and don't forget to subscribe!
- leave an Apple Podcasts review for Trucking For Millennials so we can give you a shout out the next time we record!
We had an excellent time getting to know Shay Dixon, CEO of Allegiant Logistics! Shay has experience in manufacturing & cold supply chain prior to conducting 5 months of research in preparation to launching Allegiant Logistics in October of 2020.
Our conversation covers how she builds relationships to build her business, how she structured her leadership team, her focus on optimizing systems and processes, selecting the right customers and focusing on a niche, taking advantage of opportunities available for women-owned and minority-owned companies, and much more!
Be sure to connect with her on Linkedin!
This episode is filled with valuable insights from Mysherri Rhodes aka @thetruckersaccountant!
She has 14 years of accounting experience and has made a name for herself through helping trucking companies build successful businesses through her GPS scaling method.
We speak with her about best first steps for starting your trucking business on a strong financial foundation, mistakes to avoid, technology to use, navigating PPP funding, Tax preparation and much more!
She even carried the show solo for a few minutes when our internet went down! :)
Don't for get to subscribe, follow her, and share this episode with a friend!
In this episode Michael and Aaron share thoughts about Gov. Abbott's announcement regarding that rescinds the mask mandate, a criminal investigation of former DOT head Elaine Chao, current DOT head Pete Buttigieg's recent remarks about fuel tax and his climate change priorities, Trucking Regs to watch in 2021 and more! Enjoy! Don't forget to review the podcast and share your thoughts about this episode on the PDQ America YouTube channel
In today's episode we're covering a topic we never have before!
How to buy and sell trucks! This episode is full of tips (including a SUPER TIP) about buying your first truck, what to look for, how to gain leverage in negotiations, where to buy and sell, and how to sell your truck for a fair market value.
Zach has a ton of experience in the space and is ready to make you an offer on your truck or find you the truck of your dreams! Reach out to him via www.truckvin.com!
Here's a special mix from a few trucking entrepreneurs we've had the opportunity to speak with.
Be sure to check out their respective episodes!
In order of first appearance:
Terry Roden - Episode 64
Josue Ramos - Episode 72
JeRon Hamm - Episode 57
Alex Alvarado - Episode 81
Gerald Albritton - Episode 66
Aaron Moneypenny - Episode 45
Kimberly Lucas - Episode 15
Sharae Moore - Episode 26
Demarco Thomas - Episode 80
We're thrilled to share this conversation we had with Trey Griggs, VP of Lean Sales, the sales division of Lean Solutions.
Trey has a background in coaching and education prior to making a transition into sales to create the lifestyle his family desired.
In this conversation, we talk to Trey about his career path and gain insight from his experience becoming a top performer at DAT Solutions and how he leads his sales team to create a winning culture and transformational results.
We also talk to him about Lean Solutions and how they help businesses outsource quality talent in Columbia and ensure their new employees feel a part of the stateside team.
Enjoy!
On this episode Michael and Aaron start recording as the reality starts to set that Tom Brady is the undisputed GOAT. Then they chat about their favorite commercials during the game.
Then they get into some trending topics from the last week or so including Gamestop stock, Wallstreet Bets Redditt, Bezos stepping down, and a recent Freight Waves article about Mayor Pete's plans for infrastructure.
This episodes starts with a bit of Super Bowl conversation and a potential wager between Michael and Aaron. Plus some shout outs with 5 star fans!
Then we connect with Trucker Avocado, a truck driver that's approaching his first year in business in February. Not only is a driver, he's currently building a YouTube channel that documents his successes and failures along the way. Subscribe to him here.
We talk about why and how he got into the drivers seat, his experience so far, truck driver education, finding the right company, communicating with dispatch, his YouTube channel, his goals, and much more!
Enjoy!
We're taking a bit of a break from trucking to focus on the millennial side of the podcast this week - but so much of what is covered in this episode can have a direct impact on your life and business!
We bust some myths, break down the latest data on the Millennial generation, uncover valuable insight about having a fulfilling career and productive culture and much, much more!
We spoke with Gabrielle Bosche, Author, Speaker, and Millennial Expert who is frequently called upon to speak and consult on Millennial motivation and engagements for Fortune 500 Companies, presidential campaigns, and government agencies.
Buy her latest book, The Purpose Factor, here: https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Factor-Extreme-Clarity-Youre/dp/1642934933
Gabrielle now utilizes her 11 years of Millennial research to provide high-level solutions to a broad range of clients-- from automotive giants to boutique media shops to the United States government. These solutions include marketing plans that aren't lame, recruiting and hiring strategies and manager training programs that boost retention.
Some of her books:
5 Millennial Myths: The Handbook for Managing and Motivating Millennials 2nd Edition
The Millennial Entrepreneur: Side-hustlers, Startups and Disrupters Restarting America
The Millennial Solution (published with Nightingale Conant)
Keep Them Longer: How To Gain, Train, And Retain Top Talent
The Purpose Factor
We're so thankful to have had so many excellent guests on Trucking For Millennials from around the industry. This episode is no different! Transport Topics reached out to us to have Features Editor and Co-Host of Road Signs podcast Michael Freeze!
We have a wide ranging conversation about his work at Transport Topics and the topics he's focused on covering this year like Equipment Fundamentals, Diversity in the workplace and much more!
There's many insights you can integrate into your business from this conversation and we hope you enjoy!
We put a call out to our listeners that we wanted to connect with more truck drivers within the millennial demographic and we're happy to say we're delivering on that promise!
This week enjoy this conversation with Alex Alvarado who left a sales position to jump in a truck and start hauling flatbed since July 15th 2020.
We talk to him about his experiences thus far, challenges he's faced, how he learns on the go, how he fuels himself on the road, the impact it's had on his family and his bank account, his vision for 2021 and much, much more!
Don't forget to subscribe to the Trucking For Millennials Podcast on your podcast player of choice and the PDQ America YouTube.
Join us as we have an excellent conversation with Demarco Thomas of Metromax Dispatch.
From Demarco's LinkedIn: Demarco Founded MetroMax Solutions to partner with various industries on business process and back office outsourcing services to propel their business success. Metromax Solutions strives to provide consulting and implementation services for small to medium size companies whom are interested in lowering their cost structure while bringing expertise where companies lack the resources. Our Outsourcing services enable our clients to focus on their core competencies, achieve operational excellence and outperform the competition.
We talk about how he got into trucking, how his finance background has assisted him in properly scaling up his business, how he outsources dispatch services to India, the power of outsourcing itself, his favorite books, and much, much more!
In this episode Michael and Aaron discuss Pete Buttigeg being named Transportation Secretary and an article that breaks down how 2021 is expected to be a "transitional" year.
Enjoy!
🎅We have a special Christmas Edition of the Trucking For Millennials Podcast for you available this week...🚚
🎄We decided to recap the year with a holiday spin 🎄
Enjoy a 2020 trucking edition of The Night Before Christmas...
Written by me, narrated by Michael Clements, Jr.
Merry Christmas!
The man behind who sparked dozens of podcasts, hundreds of shows, and tens of thousands of minutes for freight and logistics joins us for a special episode of Trucking For Millennials!
Timothy Dooner is is currently creating new podcast, radio, video, and multimedia content for FreightWaves. In under a year he built FreightCasts, the world’s largest logistics and supply chain podcast network in media.
Dooner is a 15-year industry veteran who has held directors positions in operations, sales, consulting, and marketing. He has worked with FedEx, Reebok, Adidas, L.L. Bean, Hasbro, Louis Vuitton, and many more high level clients across the full spectrum of the supply chain.
An accomplished podcaster/producer/host, Dooner has launched over a dozen successful podcasts including the acclaimed supply chain & logistics shows: The Shipping Pod and Consulting Logistics.
He is a host and producer on WHAT THE TRUCK?!? FreightWaves Insiders, Put That Coffee Down, Midday Market Update, FreightWaves Radio on SiriusXM, and you can wake up with his FreightWaves Morning Minute News Briefs on Alexa, and all podcast platforms.
Dooner was also a featured speaker at TEDx Chattanooga.
We chat about his experience joining FreightWaves, how they've grown in a short amount of time, how he manages time, how he creates new shows and stays energized and much more!
If you're in sales within logistics, this is an episode you do not want to miss!
We had an inspiring conversation with Dan Deigan, who's been in logistics sales since 1994. He has scaled an asset company scale from 32 trucks to over 165, a 3PL to over 22 million in sales within two and a half years, and is now on a mission to help 10,000 logistics sales reps hit $1M in GP annually through sales training, coaching, and live events through his business High Performance Logistics Sales or HPLS.
He's put together a massive event specifically for the freight sales professionals who want to go to the next level in 2021. Get your FREE ticket here.
Watch the video for this episode here. Enjoy!
We had such a great conversation with Nicole Glenn of Candor Expedite!
She brings her 20 years of logistics expertise to the show and shares insights from her successful career.
We discuss how she got, why she stayed, how she started Candor Expedite, what they specialize in, where she sees the future of transportation becoming, leading a team and much, much more!
Be sure to connect with her on LInkedIn and watch her and her crews podcast, Hold My Beer, We're Talking Freight
In this episode we connect with Andrew Cox, Research Analyst with FreightWaves.
Andrew is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the national freight market and has all the data to back it up through FreightWaves SONAR platform.
We brought him on to talk about the current freight market, why data analysis is important, how smaller trucking companies and freight brokerages can make better decisions through it, and much more!
Andrew even gives some of his projections about what to expect in the next few months and through 2021.
Be sure to sign up for his newsletter, Point of Sale, where he covers the logistics of e-commerce. https://www.freightwaves.com/communities
Christopher Morrell is the founder of The Morrell Law Firm, a Top 40 Under 40 lawer from National Trial Lawyer who pursues justice for people who are physically and emotionally injured.
We had him on the show to talk about his side of the court room to learn more about a trial lawyers' perspective when prosecuting trucking companies after an accident.
In this episode you'll learn about the legal process and what steps trucking companies should take so they protect themselves and the lives of others when transporting goods over the road.
In this episode we speak with Josue Ramos, General Manager of J and R Trucking!
We speak with him about how he recently took on the responsibility of growing his father's trucking business and the dynamics of that decision.
We also discuss the challenges and successes he's experienced as he learns to manage drivers, reduce costs, and grow the business.
Be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn and leave us a review on iTunes for a shout out on the show!
In this episode you'll hear from Terrence Wang, VP of Marketing for FreightPath and host of "Lord of the Rigs" podcast that showcases the knowledge of various industry experts in transportation.
You'll hear Aaron and Terry talk about how FreightPath has grown, how the tech side and trucking side share information, how they continue to learn about the industry to improve their product, and much more!
In this bonus episode, Michael and Aaron sit down to discuss a recent article from FreightWaves that breaks down the promises that were made and kept (or not) from Trump in 2016.
They discuss infrastructure, regulations, taxes and other key policy decisions that influence the trucking industry and how this election could impact our industry moving forward.
This episode is a full truckload of politics, so if you're not interested in hearing another opinion about it, steer clear of this episode!
But if you're interested in hearing two guys running a trucking company and freight brokerage weigh in on today's political climate, this episode is for you!
Leave your own comment on the PDQ America YouTube channel for this episode and don't forget to like, subscribe and give us a review for a shout out on the show!
This week we're sharing our interview with Trucker Tools CEO Prasad Gollapalli!
We are so thankful to have this wide ranging conversation.
We talk with Prasad about how COVID-19 has impacted Trucker Tools.
Bridging the gap between "trucking problems" and "tech solutions"
The next technological evolution that impacts the industry in a similar way that ELD's did in 2017
The areas trucking companies and freight brokerages need to automate first
and much more!
On this podcast we cover a millennial minute article about the gap between millennial wealth and why it isn't as high as the Boomer generation, how the trucking economy is outpacing the U.S. economy, and we read comments on the FMCSA broker transparency open discussion.
Enjoy!
We're excited to share this conversation we had with Gerald Albritton, CEO of Major Clout Trucking.
We first connected with Gerald at GATS 2019 when he was first starting his trucking business.
Just over a year later, he's running four trucks so we thought it was the perfect time to catch up with him about his business so he could share his challenges, successes and see what we could learn.
Enjoy the show, follow him on Instagram @coacha88 and be sure to subscribe to our PDQ America YouTube channel to watch the show!
In this episode we chat with entrepreneur & freight matchmaker Nicole Barrett.
Earlier this year, Nicole started her own business after COVID-19 impacted her previous employer and she had to move on.
And so she did!
In this conversation you'll hear about her journey into entrepreneurship, why she places a high value on ethics and values within the workplace, creating relationships that serve everyone, and much more!
We had a great time getting to know Terry Roden, Owner of Teco Metal and Hot Shot Truck Driver and YouTuber known as Ratman Roden!
In this episode you'll hear Terry's entrepreneurial journey, his perspective on trucking and logistics from a shipping perspective, his advice for entrepreneurs in trucking and any other business, and a ton more wise words from his decades of work experience.
Let us know what you think of this show and don't forget to like and subscribe!
In this episode Aaron and Michael discuss the latest FMCSA Pilot Program that would allow 18-20 year olds to drive interstate.
They also discuss "Certified Young Person" Paul Rudd and trucking industry demographics.
Let us know what you think!
This is a very special BONUS episode of Trucking For Millennials!
We thought we'd celebrate Truck Driver Appreciation Week on the podcast by curating a few clips from past guests that highlight different voices from our industry highlighting how valuable truck drivers are.
Aaron and Michael start the show with a brief introduction before the mix starts.
Here are the voices you'll hear in order of appearance:
Wayne Cragg, Truck Driver Wayne Cragg, Episode 42
Stephen Oatley, Who is your favorite freight broker, Episode 32
Hope Zvara, Mother Trucking Yoga, Strong Driver Body and Mind Episode 14
Prince Carl, Inside the mind of a knight-swift truck driver Episode 58,
TD Studer, Career Profile: Freight Broker TD Studer, Episode 37
Sharae Moore, SHE Trucking, Episode 26
Laura and Miranda, Meet the Broker Babes, Episode 42
Sadie Church, VP of Marketing at CDLLife.com, Sadie Church is Fueling our Heroes, Episode 43
Rahmel Wattley, The TruckNHustle, Episode 46
When the subject of Truck Driver Appreciation Week came up this year we KNEW we had to have Wayne Cragg on the show!
We talk about the impact of COVID-19, what companies do right and wrong with truck driver appreciation, the FMCSA pilot program for 19-20 interstate truck drivers, and much, much more!
This episode is full of gems you do not want to miss!
J.D. Redmon is a strategic marketer who has a deep understanding of marketing, trucking, and how to innovate in the trucking industry.
We had a great time chatting with him about how he got into trucking, his passion for the industry, the largest opportunity he sees within it, how he leverages LInkedIn for professional growth, being a "free agent" in logistics, and how diversity in the workplace makes innovation possible.
Give it a listen and connect with J.D. Redmon on LinkedIn today!
This episode is also available on YouTube.
In this episode Aaron and Michael stream the show live for the first time across our YouTube channel (subscribe by clicking here), PDQ America Facebook page, and the Trucking For Millennials Facebook group.
They are joined by Jamin Alvidrez and Chris Jolly to discuss Hurricane Laura and the open comment period from the FMCSA regarding broker transparency.
It's a fun conversation that you can join next time, so don't forget to subscribe on YouTube and like the Facebook page!
In this episode, Michael and Aaron chat with Prince Carl, a truck driver and mentor for Knight-Swift Transportation. We discuss how Carl got into the industry, his advice for new drivers, the mindset a truck driver should have, the value of joining the Knight-Swift team, the business opportunity of sub-leasing, moving from California to Texas, and more! Follow Carl on Instagram: @_prince_carl
This week Aaron and Michael sit down with JeRon Hamm and dive into his hot shot trucking career.
He's been in business for almost 2 years now and loaded this episode with tons of actionable advice, tips for getting started, and wisdom that can only come with experience.
We also talk about Pro-Haul TV, his YouTube channel where he's amassed almost 10,000 subscribers. Check it out and subscribe here.
Enjoy this conversation, follow Je'Ron on Instagram, and let us know what you think in a review!
We had a great time chatting with Blythe Brumleve on the show this week!
Blythe is a marketer, website strategist, and podcaster with a unique employment history that gives her rare insight into ROI driven websites fueled by cohesive marketing plans.
Her primary business is Digital Dispatch which provides website design and marketing strategy specifically for the logistics industry.
We start our conversation with her about how she got into trucking and logistics before diving DEEP into the most important things trucking companies and freight brokerages need to address to maximize the ROI of a website.
We even talk about whether TikTok is an important app for our industry, how to leverage your content in the best way, balancing the ever changing media landscape and much more!
We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did and decide to connect with Blythe on LinkedIn!
In this episode Michael and Aaron start the show with the Millennial Minute and a brief discussion about an article that recently came from FleetOwner:
https://www.fleetowner.com/resource-center/driver-management/article/21137443/top-truck-driver-concerns-for-first-half-of-2020
The Flatbed Forecast is coming out next week! Be sure you get it by signing up here: https://www.pdqamerica.com/forecast
They also mention this article from Business Insider about driver pay: https://www.businessinsider.com/trucking-prime-agrees-pay-truck-drivers-28-million-2020-7
THEN they get into their conversation with Nick Dangles. Nick has been in the logistics trenches for over 7 years and provides a lot of value to his growing network on LinkedIn through insightful posts that speak to the soul of freight brokerage operations.
You're going to enjoy his insight and stories from how he got into a successful career in freight and logistics.
Enjoy the show!
In this episode Michael and Aaron chat about some of the latest news happening in the country and the trucking industry before going through the GATS Files.
They chat about Kanye tweets, Tesla building their factory in Texas, and Love's requiring face masks.
The GATS files include "The Entrepreneur" and "Millennials as Revolutionsists".
At the start of 2020 we released the first edition of the Flatbed Forecast, which covers the previous 6 months, changes in the industries that directly effect flatbed trucking (mining, oil and gas, manufacturing, and construction) before looking forward to what the next 6 months can bring.
The latest edition of the Flatbed Forecast will be available soon, so sign up at www.pdqamerica.com/forecast so you don't miss when it releases!
In this episode Michael gives you a sneak peak at what to expect in the latest edition.
Enjoy!
This week Michael and Aaron get back in the studio to chat about some of the latest news happening in and out of trucking and logistics.
Here are the articles they discuss:
Operation Safe Driver Week
States that Require Masks in Public
Freight Economy Rebound
Patrick Mahomes agrees to 10-year, $503 million extension
Kanye West running for President
We left this conversation with Brent Orsuga fired up!
Brent Orsuga is the Founder and President of Pinnacle Growth Advisors. He and his team helps the freight industry (Asset based, 3PL, Freight Brokerage and Technology firms) recruit and retain top talent for companies who want to grow.
In our conversation we talk about what companies can do to attract talent, what individuals should be paying attention to when looking to have a successful career in logistics, and much more!
This episode is great for anyone in a sales position at a freight brokerage or trucking company.
We hope you enjoy!
Believe it or not, we were actually able to make trucking insurance interesting!
It wouldn't have been possible without the help of Quan Cosby and George Scillieri of Marsh & McLennan companies.
If you're a University of Texas fan, you may recognize Quan's name as he was a star wide receiver for the Texas Longhorns and a former NFL athlete.
Now, he's an insurance professional and VP of Risk Management for Marsh & McLennan Insurance.
George Scillieri works alongside Quan as the Director of Safety Services at Marsh & McLennan.
Together these two provided a masterclass of information regarding trucking insurance and how small and medium size trucking companies can make sure they have the right coverage at the right time.
Give it a listen and let us know what you think!
DOT Compliance and Trucking Consultant Kenneth Nolley joins us this week to talk about summer safety tips, the rising cost of insurance and shed some additional light on the experience of a law enforcement officer.
In this wide ranging conversation we discuss the recent news that the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution to increase trucking company insurance minimum from $750k to $2M dollars.
We also chat about how truck drivers can stay safe and compliant in the summer months and Kenneth shares some insight from his experiences as a Trooper with Texas DPS.
Then we have a very insightful conversation about the relationships between law enforcement and the citizens and how a recent CDLLife poll found that 79% of drivers would not deliver to a city with a defunded police force.
We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did! Be sure to connect with Kenneth on LinkedIn by clicking here.
Today's episode is a direct result of listener feedback! We love when you reach out to us with new episode ideas because we can go straight to our network to deliver something that can help you out immediately! You can always send new suggestions to @pdqamerica or to Michael or Aaron on LinkedIn.
Today we dive into carrier-customer relationships with Donnie Steingrubey, aka @heavy_haul_mercenary on Instagram.
Donnie is an owner-operator that is constantly looking for new ways to differentiate himself from other carriers and shares some of his secrets with us in this episode!
Be sure to give him a follow on Instagram and don't forget to write us an iTunes review for a shout out on our next show!
This week Michael and Aaron spend 5 minutes talking about the actions happening across the country before jumping into an excellent conversation with Chris Jolly The Freight Coach.
Chris Jolly has trucking running through his blood and an impressive track record for success in a variety of leadership roles at brokerage firms like XPO Logistics.
He's recently embarked a freelance career advising brokerages on best practices and networking on LinkedIn.
Enjoy this episode, connect with Chris on LInkedIn and don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review! Written reviews get a shout out on our show!
We had an excellent time speaking with Rahmel Wattley, entrepreneur and creator of the Truck N' Hustle podcast!
In this episode you'll hear Rahmel share his experience from 18 years in the trucking industry and why he remains passionate about sharing the immense opportunities it provides anyone willing to work for it!
Michael, Aaron, and Rahmel also discuss how to move through adversity, decide whether or not entrepreneurship is right for you, and what some of the most impactful advice Rahmel has received since he started interviewing successful entrepreneurs in July 2019.
Be sure to listen to Rahmel's podcast, give him a follow on Instagram and let him know we sent you!
This episode is perfect for anyone starting their trucking career from inside a truck or is interested in building their business but doesn't know where to go next.
Aaron "The Trucking Guy" Moneypenny is a former CDL driver and entrepreneur who started Moneypenny Trucking about four years ago and he filled this episode with important knowledge most only get from experience.
You'll hear Aaron's story of learning the regulatory side of trucking "the hard way" and how you can take the steps to avoid the same pitfalls that can crush so many trucking companies in the first year.
You'll also hear Aaron, Michael, and Aaron talk through the challenges of growing a business, staying focused, building business relationships and the ongoing driver vs. broker debate.
Let us know what you think of this episode @pdqamerica or aaron@pdqamerica.com and be sure to give Aaron Moneypenny a follow @moneypennytrucking and @therealtruckingguy.
We brought the 🔥 in this episode! The relationship between truckers and brokers has been contentious for a long time but the recent drop in rate per mile has really caused the tensions to boil over to new heights.
Before that, Michael and Aaron discuss the new Hours of Service Ruling and how they think it will impact truck drivers.
Then they dive into the "MayDay" trucking protest in Washington D.C. that caught the attention of Donald Trump and even led his chief of staff to look into the federal law regarding the transparency of brokers and carriers.
They also share some Facebook group comments to analyze the opinions of the trucking community as thousands weigh in on how to create a better relationship between carriers and brokers.
Enjoy this episode and let us know what you think!
We had a great conversation with Sadie Church, VP of Marketing for CDLLife.com.
Sadie and truck driver Brittney Richardson are traveling the country on the "Fueling Our Heroes" tour, making sure that truck drivers are fed quality meals while many restaurants are still closed during the nationwide Coronavirus shutdown.
If you'd like to contribute to the Fueling Our Heroes cause, go to their kickstarter by clicking here.
Sadie shares what she's learned over the road as her and Brittney travel from 5am-7pm feeding truck drivers at different places across the country. We also talk about what carriers can do to show they appreciate their drivers, and what advice Sadie and Brittney have for newer drivers entering the industry.
We hope you enjoy this episode!
This week's episode features Laura Lysacek and Miranda Bender, but you may know them as the Broker Babes (@brokerbabes on Instagram)
If you're into trucking and on Instagram, you've probably seen this pair of freight brokers striking a pose inside and outside trucks, but that's just part of what they do.
Most of the time they are helping carriers stay loaded and shippers keep shipping as full time freight brokers!
In this episode you'll learn about how they got into the industry, decided to team up and start a business on their own, what they want their followers to know, how they generate new business and much more!
We really enjoyed getting to know them and know you will to!
Don't forget to give them a follow!
We have a great episode for you this week!
We chat with truck driver Wayne Cragg who's a vocal advocate and educator for the trucking industry. We ask him about his experience driving over the road during this unprecedented time before diving deep into some trucking related topics.
We discuss the recent White House ceremony honoring truck drivers, the lack of PPE for drivers, how infrastructure funding is needed right now, advice for young people in the industry and much, much, more!
Follow him @wayne_cragg on YouTube, connect with him on LinkedIn!
Let us know what you think of this episode!
For our second episode with Waymo, we chat with Jon Rainwater, a CDL driver who's training truck drivers how to interact and monitor Waymo's fleet of Automated Trucks.
Jon sees the future of automated trucking as a huge opportunity for all generations to take part in as this new way of moving freight across the nation is being developed and tested on highways today.
Waymo will also start driving along interstates in Texas including I-10, I-20, and I-45, driving the interesting and promising commercial route between New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas exploring how their tech might be able to create new transportation solutions.
Jon is a CDL training instructor for Waymo Via trucking where he trains new Class A drivers in partnership with Transdev (one of our partners who recruits and manages our trained drivers) 2-3 times a week on how to interact with the Waymo self-driving system. He actually helped put together our trucking-specific training and develop the final exam our trained drivers for trucking need to take at the end of the training! He's been with the program since June 2019, and prior to that he was a truck driver for the majority of his career. He also previously worked as a case manager at the Salvation Army and was an intelligence analyst for the U.S. Army.
We're super excited to share this two part episode with Waymo, the automated vehicle company of Alphabet, a sister company of Google.
Before we dive into the interview, Michael and Aaron discuss some trucking news.
They discuss how Amazon is pausing their shipping and logistics service they originally announced one year ago as they manage the Coronavirus crisis.
Then they discuss a WSJ article describing how LTL carriers are being impacted and cutting costs.
But the star of this episode is certainly Matt Carroll, a Waymo product manager with a ton of experience with automated vehicles.
The conversation details Waymo's approach, their technology, the timeline for driverless trucking, use cases, challenges, concerns, and much, much, more.
Be sure to subscribe to Trucking For Millennials if you haven't already because next week we'll be sharing the conversation we had with one of Waymo's truck drivers!
Here's Matt's bio:
Matt Carroll is a Product Manager for Trucking at Waymo, a self-driving technology company with a mission to make it safe and easy for people and things to get where they're going.
In his role, Matt is responsible for truck behavior and redundancy workstreams, as well as building out the operational model for Waymo Via (which is focused on commercial goods delivery and includes both trucking and local delivery).
Prior to Waymo, Matt worked at Peloton Technology, a truck-automation startup, where he was the first product manager in the organization and worked on wirelessly-connecting truck convoys. Matt was previously an engineering team lead for a defense contractor that designed vehicle enhancements, such as IED and mine protection.
He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Western Ontario and an MBA from Harvard Business School.
Stat Clarification:
One statistic Matt shared in this episode was related to collissions on the road. It's actually 1.3 million deaths due to traffic crashes every year on a global basis, 4k of those involving large trucks. 94% of traffic crashes in the U.S. are a result of human error or inattention.
In this episode Michael and Aaron discuss a somewhat recent pre-coronavirus article from FreightWaves called "Five Reasons Flatbed Shipping is On the Rise" which makes some interesting points, especially given our nation's economy right now.
They also read some reactions from over the road from truck drivers and talk to one of PDQ America's drivers, Gilbert, about his recent haul from East Texas to Wyoming to and talk about his experience and what he saw and the changes this "new normal" has brought about.
On this episode of Trucking For Millennials we continue the conversation we started last week with Talmadge (T.D.) Studor, a freight broker for Modus Trucking.
You'll hear about how he got into trucking and logistics, how one of his first jobs delivering packages influences his job now, relating with drivers, speaking with shippers, handling times of high volume, building a book of business from square one, working as a team, his opinion about the Millennial generation and whether or not they're doing enough, and much, much more!
Our last episode, "Load it Or Leave it 2" features him speaking about what he's experiencing as he serves grocery store freight for Kroger in the middle of the Coronavirus. This episode is a deep dive into his career that will be valuable for anyone looking to grow and maintain a positive trajectory as a freight broker.
Load it or Leave it is BACK!
On this episode Michael and Aaron discuss a few pieces of news as of the time of recording (3/20/20) like the way truck drivers are experiencing life over the road as the Coronavirus spreads, state-wide lock downs in New York, California, and Texas, viral misinformation memes and more.
Then they get into 4 separate clips recorded at Great American Trucking Show 2019 and discuss whether or not to "load" or "leave" the advice from those they speak to.
Finally you'll hear from next week's guest, T.D. Studor, a freight broker brokering loads to Kroger about his team is experiencing as a member on the front lines of one of the most challenging times in the supply chain in recent memory.
Enjoy!
We continue our conversation with Jamin Alvidrez, a millennial freight sales professional with 14 years of experience helping carriers and customers ship more freight.
We also talk to Jamin about optimizing load board utilization, capitalizing on the current opportunities in the market, and much more!
A lot has happened in the last 7 days so Michael and Aaron break down the latest ways Coronavirus is impacting the United States in general and in the trucking industry specifically.
You'll hear why Michael had to self-quarantine, what PDQ America is doing to help curb the spread of Coronavirus, a discussion of a recent article from Business Insider Senior Transportation Reporter Rachel Premack about how the virus could impact truck drivers in a very real way before discussing the cancellation of the Mid America Trucking Show and the TIA dragging their feet on making a decision to cancel their annual conference.
You'll also hear a bit from Jamin Alvidrez, a millennial freight sales professional with a lot of insight about finding success in a career in logistics.
Be sure to come back tomorrow (Tuesday 3/14/20) to hear our full interview with Jamin about optimizing load board utilization and the current fear in the market.
In this episode Aaron and Michael discuss the the impact (or lack thereof) of Coronavirus on freight domestically and abroad and then give an update on the proposed HOS rules heading to the White House. They also shout out a 5 star fan of the podcast and the @PDQAmerica truck of the month winner!
This week Aaron and Michael sat down with the creator of the popular trucking and freight news blog www.freightbrokerlive.com to discuss all things trucking!
They dive into how Stephen got started, why he hates the term "millennials", how our generation (and younger) can have a successful career in our industry, trucking media, and much, much, more!
Stephen has a passion for logistics that is supremely evident in this episode! Be sure to follow him on social media, his podcast and website so you don't miss his unique take on what's happening in logistics today!
In this episode you'll hear timeless wisdom from trucking industry veterans we had the opportunity to speak with at the 2019 Great American Trucking Show.
This episode is a direct result of listener feedback! Be sure to leave a review with your thoughts or suggestions about the content you'd like to hear so we can continue to improve the show each week!
You can also give us a shout out on social media @pdqamerica
In this episode we talk about two trucking articles:
C.H. Robinson Hit with $1.1 Billion dollar lawsuit
https://www.businessinsider.com/truck-brokerage-hit-with-1-billion-lawsuit-from-farmers-2020-2
Tennessee Based Trucking Company Ceases Operations After 69 Years
https://www.freightwaves.com/news/tennessee-based-trucking-company-ceases-operations-after-69-years?utm_content=116527494&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&hss_channel=fbp-179175252108775
Then we break down a new segment called Load it Or Leave it!
We break down three separate clips of audio we recorded when we launched our podcast at Great American Trucking Show.
We ask the public's opinion on the Millennial generation and the responses are thought provoking to say the least!
Do you want to be a 5 star listener of our show? Leave a 5 star review! :)
This is a good episode!
Michael and Aaron start the show discussing two trucking industry articles.
The first is courtesy of Freight Broker Live which talks about a large insurance carrier discontinuing commercial auto insurance: https://freightbrokerlive.com/breaking-news-44th-largest-commercial-insurance-carrier-5th-in-tx-says-were-done-with-commercial-auto-insurance/
The second is about VP of OOIDA Lewie Pugh's trip to capital hill addressing what's important to truck drivers: https://landline.media/ooida-drops-truckers-truth-bombs-at-senate-hearing/
Then they shift gears and have a great conversation with The Crafty Trucker, Jason and Heather. They're a team of expediters who have a successful trucking business and YouTube channel that documents the lifestyle they've built.
We dive into their trucking careers and how they make their relationship work over the road. Subscribe to their channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCair4hwUA4B0j_Lwn3hSjSw
Enjoy!
The second half of our conversation with Dave Coleman of Jack's Chrome Shop and Chrome and Steel Radio covers the role of a chrome shop, custom trucking trends, the truck show circuit, and what Dave thinks the future looks like for custom truck culture.
This episode kicks off with a fun post- Super Game phone call between Aaron and Michael. The winner of their football game prop bet will be awarding the loser with a celebratory Gatorade bath on our Instagram @PDQAmerica
Then they get into some trucking news and chat about the USMCA deal, a Texas Flatbed Carrier shutting down, and Kobe Bryant's passing.
Then you'll hear an interview with Dave Coleman, owner of Jack's Chrome Shop and part owner of Chrome and Steel Radio. Dave has built a substantial audience on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
You'll hear about how Dave got into trucking, his passion for media and content creation, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss part two where they dive deeper into the world of custom trucks and the truck show circuit!
Michael and Aaron start the show with a pre-game chat about low freight rates, trucking insurance, and friendly Big Game 54 challenge.
The show then turns to a conversation Aaron had with Sharae Moore, millennial truck driver, advocate for the industry and creator of support community and apparel brand S.H.E. Trucking.
In this episode you'll learn more about Sharae's journey into the industry, how her brand has grown and what's next for S.H.E.!
She also talks about some new developments she's never talked about before and shares her perspective about the future of trucking and logistics.
Don't forget to follow her @shetrucking!
In part two of this episode featuring DOT Compliance and Trucking Consultant Kenneth Nolley, he and Michael dive deeper into his expertise and work with P1 Compliance.
Questions that are answered in this episode:
"What are some things you are looking for when you're speaking to a prospective client or motor carrier?"
"How can companies build their culture to be more preventative than reactive?"
"How can drivers improve their daily safety routines?"
"Driver managers are busy. What can they be doing to ensure drivers practice these routines over the road?"
"How important is it for executive leadership to be promoting a safe culture in the business?"
"Do you think ELDs make trucking safer?"
"How can trucking companies keep insurance costs down?"
"Where do you see technology going now and how will it effect compliance and safety in the future?"
We're back with another two part episode!
Michael and Aaron kick things off with a casual "pre-game" conversation regarding the NFL AFC/NFC playoffs. They discuss their picks to win and who they hope to see in the Super Bowl.
Then they chat about a recent article from FreightWaves regarding the steps being taken to replace traditional side mirrors with Camera Monitoring Systems (CMS). The elimination of side mirrors could improve safety and is estimated to reduce fuel costs due to better aerodynamics.
Then you'll hear from DOT Compliance and Trucking Consultant Kenneth Nolley. Kenneth is a a former Texas State Trooper that served with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the owner of Priority One Compliance Services, LLC, a transportation consulting firm that advises growing motor carrier clients on a range of operational and compliance-related matters (including, but not limited to: securing various registrations, operating permits and licensing, pre-employment / background screening, insurance-related matters, and continuing education for Motor Carriers, Insurance Agents and CDL/DOT Regulated drivers).
His expertise in this space was guided by my prior employment as a Trooper with the Texas Department of Public Safety where he was trained on laws and the enforcement of the Federal Motor Carrier Rules & Regulations that Motor Carriers, DOT Regulated Drivers must abide by and Crash Investigation.
In addition he have served the private sector in Corporate DOT Management roles for an Oil/Gas Service Company and a HazMat Trucking Company that transported Crude Oil & LPG.
The conversation went so well we had to make it into two parts, so be sure to check back later this week for the rest of this episode.
Thanks for listening!
We start this episode announcing the first ever PDQ America Truck of the Year!
If you're interested in participating and think that your truck has what it takes, follow us on social media @PDQAmerica. Each week we feature pictures of loaded trucks from around the country. Each weekly winner is entered into a monthly competition that is voted on by members of our community. Truck of the Month winners are entered into Truck of the Year!
After that you'll hear Michael and Aaron's conversation with Craig Bliss. Craig is the creator of the largest Facebook group for Freight Brokers and one of the largest for truck drivers called Freight Brokers and Truck Drivers that boasts almost 17,000 members.
He also uploads his weekly Make More Money Mondays live streams to his own podcast, Talk Freight and is now featuring members of his group.
If that wasn't it, he also started Freightbrand.com, which helps small freight brokers and trucking companies build a recognizable brand online.
In this conversation we chat about:
- How he got into trucking and logistics
- Freight Brokers and Truck Drivers Facebook Group
- Social Media and it's role in our industry
- What happened in 2019
- How to make more money in 2020
- and more!
We hope you enjoy this episode!
Happy New Year!
We ended 2019 with a huge project and the team decided it would be a great opportunity for Aaron to document the loading process. Six truckloads and hundreds of thousands of pounds later, Michael asks Aaron about what he learned from the experience.
We also talk about the 2019 PDQ America Truck of the Year Vote that's happening this week! You can vote here: https://www.pdqamerica.com/pdq-truck-of-the-year-2019
If you're a flatbed or heavy haul carrier and you'd like to be a guest for an upcoming episode, please email aaron@pdqamerica.com
Follow us on Instagram: @pdqamerica
2020 is upon us! The "roaring" 20's have arrived and we're discussing how to start the New Year with your foot on the gas pedal!
Michael and Aaron discuss the Flatbed Forecast, a downloadable PDF that will be available for our Carrier Network, a way of thinking about decision making for the new year, and we're featuring a snippet from a conversation we had with Harry Wilde of Lube Zone about leveraging the potential that young people have.
Enjoy!
In this episode Michael and Aaron chat about whether or not these topics belong on Santa's nice list or naughty list:
Uber Freight
FreightWaves
Celadon
Truck Drivers
Tesla
Automated Trucks
Electric Trucks
Transport Stocks
Trump
Congress
Infrastructure
Trade Deal
FMCSA
Millennials
Boomers
Podcast Listeners/Guests
GATS
Dallas Cowboys
In this episode we continue the conversation we had with Business Insider Senior Transportation Reporter Rachel Premack and get deep into the latest Trucking news.
First we chat about the word "bloodbath" and how it has been the word for the industry in 2019.
https://www.businessinsider.com/truckers-warn-bloodbath-companies-bankrupt-lower-expectations-2019-6
Then we chat about a news story she broke the day we recorded, a report about how Amazon is paying their drivers a day rate instead of per mile.
https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-truck-drivers-pay-hourly-per-mile-2019-11
If you enjoyed this conversation with Rachel Premack, let us know on social @pdqamerica or via email aaron@pdqamerica.com
We're always open to covering topics you're interested in!
We had the opportunity to meet Business Insider Senior Transportation Reporter Rachel Premack at FreightWaves LIVE, and she was kind enough to be our guest!
Rachel is a senior transportation reporter at Business Insider. She focuses on logistics — particularly trucking and how deliveries are changing with the rise of e-commerce — and speaks regularly on national radio, industry panels, and podcasts.
For part 1 of this 2 part conversation, Michael, Aaron, and Rachel start with a few "millennial" topics:
The viral "Ok Boomer" retort: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/29/style/ok-boomer.html
The newly announced Tesla Cybertruck:
https://www.foxnews.com/auto/elon-musk-explains-tesla-cybertruck-window-fail
We start shifting into "trucking stuff" when we discuss this article Rachel wrote about Andrew Yang, a Democratic presidential nominee. He's growing in popularity with young people and has found a passionate following with the group "Truckers for Yang".
Andrew's lead campaign policy is the "Freedom Dividend", a $1,000 / month payment from the federal government that he says will help offset unemployment as jobs are automated away.
https://www.businessinsider.com/truck-drivers-andrew-yang-self-driving-2019-9
We hope you enjoy this conversation!
In this episode Michael sits down with David Abell for a wide ranging conversation. They cover David's professional career, how to build a successful brokerage team, how he read 65 books last year, the role of an online presence for trucking companies and freight brokerages, content on social media, tips for Millennials looking to take their career to the next level in 2020, and more!
We hope you enjoy this episode and connect with him on Linkedin here.
This episode features a few females making their way in freight!
The first conversation is between Michael and Ellen Voie, founder of Women in Trucking, a non-profit organization focused on the transportation and logistics industry.
The second is between Christian Patterson, curator of our Transmitter Newsletter and Kimberly Lucas, owner of Keep It Moving Services, a hot shot trucking company.
You'll learn about the work Women in Trucking does to support our industry and a new business owner who's optimistic about the future of her growing family business.
Enjoy!
This episode features two conversations:
The first is with Butch Bailey, truck driver and creator of the Strong Driver Fitness Seat Strap, which helps truck drivers "get fit while they sit". Be sure to follow him on Instagram at @strong.driver. You can also visit his website, www.strongdriver.com
The second is from a voice Trucking For Millennials listeners may be familiar with; Hope Zvara with Mother Trucker Yoga. In this conversation we discuss a recent report from Blue Cross Blue Shield that examined the health conditions impacting millennials most.
You can view the report here.
We hope this episode encourages and empowers you to take the next step to a healthier lifestyle over the road!
Michael and Aaron recently attended FreightWaves LIVE, the premiere conference by the media juggernaut and technology company behind SONAR.
In this episode you will hear two quick conversations that were had back at the hotel wrapping up each day. They talk about their initial impressions and takeaways from each day of the event.
This episode is part two of a two part conversation we had with Lead Technician Ryan Campbell.
In this second half, Ryan and Aaron discuss the shortage of trucking technicians, the career paths for younger techs who might be entering the industry and the new technologies inside the truck.
Like what you hear or have some feedback? Give us a review!
You can also follow us on social: @PDQAmerica
"There are more computers in a truck than there are in an office" - Ryan Campbell, Lead Technician
This is part one of a conversation we had with Ryan Campbell, a lead technician for the largest tank transportation company in North America.
In this part we discuss how Ryan got into the industry, his experience with entrepreneurship, the difference between a mechanic and a technician and what it takes to become a successful trucking technician.
Subscribe to our podcast so you don't miss part two where we chat about the technician shortage!
Follow @PDQAmerica
Sign up for our weekly newsletter: https://www.pdqamerica.com/trucking-for-millennials
We had some fun with this Halloween-themed episode!
For Trucking Stuff Aaron and Michael discuss the ongoing uncertainty in the trucking industry and freight markets before shifting to a few fun trucking-inspired ghost stories.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the show!
Follow @PDQAmerica on Instagram
Subscribe to our weekly Newsletter
Leave a review of the show in iTunes
Technology continues to influence the trucking industry and this episode features voices of 3 different CEO's and their perspective on how it's impacting the industry today.
The "video gamification" of trucks is a subject that came up quite often during our conversations with industry professionals at GATS, so the episode starts off with a discussion about their possible role in driver recruitment.
The second half of the episode features Marcus Cooksey, CEO of LUI Transport and Founder of Duke.ai, a technology that allows Owner Operators to simply and securely stay up to date with their Profit/Loss details and Tax Liability.
We hope you enjoy this episode!
Also featured in this episode:
Ellen Voie, Women in Trucking & Justin Clarke, CEO of F Staff.
In this episode you'll hear what two drivers think about the FMCSA's proposed changes to Hours of Service. Sam, a driver with decades of experience and millions of miles and Nolan, a company driver who's been driving over the road for just under 2 years.
Each perspective is unique and goes to show how important it is that drivers submit their comments to the FMCSA. If you have yet to do that, you can do so by clicking here: Submit Formal Comment
We met Hope Zvara of Mother Trucker Yoga at the Great America Trucking Show in August where she led numerous sessions to help truck drivers implement simple and easy stretches and other techniques to improve their health over the road.
We chat a little bit about how she got involved in trucking, how important it is for truck drivers to make proactive changes to improve movement and posture, and go over a few practical things anyone can start implementing immediately.
Article referenced in episode: BCBS Millennial Health Report
Link to Hope's website: https://www.mothertruckeryoga.com/
This week in Millennial Stuff Michael and Aaron start the episode discussing a recent New York Times article about how the Millennial generation is changing office life by expecting flexible work schedules.
NY Times Article: "Young People Are Going to Save Us All From Office Life"
That brings us straight into our Trucking Stuff segment (24:40) which is a conversation Michael had with Anthony, a millennial trucking company recruiter.
They have an excellent conversation about how he entered and found success in the industry, and what he's hearing from the younger workforce as he engages with them every day.
Anthony has an inspiring story and very practical advice about how young people can find success in the industry for the long term.
If you have feedback for the episode or a topic you would like us to cover, please reach out to us on social media @pdqamerica or via email - aaron@pdqamerica.com
In this episode we have a conversation about one of trucking's most critical issues - truck parking!
There is a severe shortage of parking for truck drivers and we speak with Scott Grenerth of TSPS.io and RigRest.com to find out what's being done to improve it.
We had the opportunity to speak with Scott after he led a panel discussion with TxDOT and truck drivers at the Great American Trucking Show.
We also collected input from our driver Sam Willoughby, who provided some valuable first hand insight into the problem.
Through new technologies and regulatory study from TxDOT, positive changes are being made.
Thanks for listening!
Send feedback to us on social media (@PDQAmerica) or aaron@pdqamerica.com
From September 8th-14th the trucking industry has been celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week - for good reason - Truck Drivers make the world go 'round!
In this episode Michael and Aaron talk about their favorite truck driver celebration from trucking companies around the nation and dive into some practical ways anyone can showcase their appreciation for truck drivers every day - inside and outside of the industry.
Thank you for listening to the Trucking For Millennials Podcast!
We value your feedback and topic suggestions.
If you have any, please send us an email at podcast@pdqamerica.com or simply leave a review on iTunes!
In our 3rd episode we break the show into two segments: Millennial Stuff & Trucking Stuff.
In "Millennial Stuff" we discuss a recent poll that surveyed millennials and boomers about the values each generation states are most important to them.
You can find the poll results in the following articles: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/meet-the-press/deep-boiling-anger-nbc-wsj-poll-finds-pessimistic-america-despite-n1045916
https://www.wsj.com/articles/americans-have-shifted-dramatically-on-what-values-matter-most-11566738001?mod=searchresults&page=1&pos=6
At the 13:05 minute mark, we pivot to Trucking Stuff and chat about the recent HOS regulation changes.
We end the episode with an in-office chat we had this week inspired by the recent trucking company closures and a tweet from an ATA economist about what's happening in the spot market. This starts at 21:44.
Let us know what you think of this episode and if there are any specific topics you'd like us to cover by sending an email to podcast@pdqamerica.com or connecting with us on social media via @pdqamerica
We're back at the office after three full days of networking at the Great American Trucking show!
In this episode Michael and Aaron chat about their experience at GATS19 and share some takeaways from the official launch of the Trucking For Millennials Podcast.
We were able to capture over 100 Gigs of audio and video content and had over 15 conversations with leaders from all aspects of the industry.
We will be sharing the full conversations in the coming weeks but in the meantime we wanted to provide you with a sampling of the conversations we had.
Listen for millennial rants, raves, and reasoned perspectives from experienced industry leaders. Plus, a chance to receive our coveted in-car trashcan!
On this episode, we have a brief conversation about our vision for the Trucking for Millennials podcast as well as a little background for how the show got started.
You can expect many more episodes to come that include topical discussion, expert interviews, more voices from the PDQ America office and much more!
Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and keep the conversation going by joining our Trucking for Millennials Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/truckingformillennials/?source_id=222627777937274