#38 - From Long-Haul to Leadership: Jason Lerato on Building People-First Culture in Trucking

On this episode of The State of Work Today, I sit down with Jason Lerato, a transportation industry veteran who brings a rare and valuable perspective to HR—because he’s lived both behind the wheel and behind the desk. With 20 years of hands-on experience as a long-haul driver, and a career in HR spanning recruiting, compliance, and workforce development, Jason knows what it takes to support and retain frontline workers. We dive into the cultural shifts in Canadian trucking, the rise of tech-savvy new drivers, and how to lead with empathy in an industry often defined by isolation and pressure. Jason shares real stories, practical insights, and a leadership philosophy rooted in listening, honesty, and real human connection. If you want to hear what true people-first leadership sounds like—this is the episode. Listen now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices