Driving Forward Podcast

The paperwork says you're compliant, but can your operations prove it? 👉 Who are you trusting to move freight? 👉 How are those partners being vetted? 👉 Can you demonstrate your cybersecurity practices? 👉 Are your compliance programs prepared for greater scrutiny?Those questions are becoming harder to ignore as regulations change, freight fraud continues to expose weaknesses across the supply chain, and programs like CTPAT and TSA place greater emphasis on how companies manage risk. Paul Barsamian from Veroot, joins Nate Johnson to discuss what these changes could mean for carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and other companies moving freight across the supply chain. Because the cost of getting it wrong isn't always a fine. It can be a shipment held at the border, freight that doesn't arrive when expected, a customer you can no longer serve, or an opportunity that goes to a competitor who was better prepared.

Was your tech stack carefully built, or accumulated? A TMS selected years ago.Systems that don’t communicate the way they should.Spreadsheets filling gaps they were never designed to fill.Software still being paid for but barely used.And now, an explosion of AI tools promising another layer of efficiency.The question isn’t simply “What technology should we buy next?” It’s “What problem are we actually trying to solve?” In this episode of Driving Forward, Nate Johnson is joined by Mike Solarz, Michael Demers, and Robert Bain to unpack what they heard directly from trucking and logistics leaders at the GLCS Tech Summit. They dig into why AI adoption may be moving slower than the headlines suggest, the ongoing frustration around TMS integrations, cybersecurity and freight fraud, lessons learned from technology implementations, and why building a practical technology roadmap starts with understanding your processes before adding another tool. For transportation leaders deciding what belongs in their tech stack, what needs to change, and where to invest next, this episode offers insight to the technology conversations happening across trucking today.

You know what your trucks, equipment, and customers are worth. But is the rest of your business ready for someone to look under the hood?Growth, profitability, legal exposure, technology, customer expectations, and changing regulations all compete for attention. The decisions made in one area often create consequences somewhere else in the business.This week on Driving Forward, Nate Johnson sits down with Doug Grawe, Owner & CEO of The Grawe Group and former General Counsel at Dart Transit — one of the nation's largest owner-operator fleets.Doug has spent two decades helping family-owned trucking companies navigate the legal decisions that make or break them, and he's opening up the playbook:🔷 How to get your company ready for a sale (and what kills deals in diligence)🔷How to bring the next generation into the family business without blowing it up🔷What the DOL's latest independent contractor rule changes mean for owner-operator programs🔷The contract clauses carriers should never sign blind🔷Why those dusty bylaws and operating agreements might be the most important papers in your buildingFor transportation owners and executives thinking about growth, transition, risk, or long-term business value, tune in for a look at how the decisions made today can shape what comes next.

Choosing a TMS is a major decision. But once the contract is signed, the real work begins.A TMS implementation can shape how your business operates for years. Go-live is a major milestone, but getting there without losing momentum, blowing the budget, or overwhelming the team takes more than a solid project plan.This week on Driving Forward, Nate Johnson leads a conversation about what it takes to implement and support an enterprise TMS with two people who have seen these projects from very different sides.Brandon Hodges, EVP at Mastery Logistics Systems, brings more than 20 years of experience helping companies navigate TMS implementations from the vendor side. Steve Harder, VP of Technology at Crane Worldwide Logistics, has spent 30 years managing the operational and technology realities that come after the contract is signed, including nearly two decades leading IT at DHL Supply Chain.They talk about phased rollouts versus big bang go-lives, the small wins that build momentum, why internal champions and executive support matter, and how to manage the integration web that can quickly turn a complex project into an even bigger one.If a TMS is on your roadmap in the next 12 months, this is the conversation to hear before timelines tighten, integrations multiply, and go-live gets real.

What did the last 4 years in this market teach us that we can't afford to forget? Recorded at TCA Refrigerated, Nate Johnson sits down with several respected trucking leaders who have spent decades building successful fleets through good markets and bad. Randy Marten | CEO & Chairman of Marten Transport Pam Wiers | CFO of Dutch Maid Logistics Ken Johnson | Executive Chairman of Leonard's Express Ashley Kordish | CEO of Ralph Moyle, Inc. Luke Subler| President of Classic Carriers & Immediate Past Chairman of TCA Refrigerated Division The conversations are honest, practical, and shaped by experience. They discuss why protecting margins sometimes means saying no to freight, why knowing your costs has never been more important, how strong customer relationships outperform short-term pricing decisions, and why many fleets still have a long road ahead even as rates begin to improve. Whether you lead a fleet, manage operations, oversee finance, or make strategic decisions for a transportation company, this episode is a valuable perspective from leaders who have weathered decades of industry cycles and aren't afraid to share what worked, what didn't, and what comes next.

When the freight market gets interesting, experience matters. On this episode of Driving Forward, Nate Johnson is joined by Kyle Kottke, General Manager at Kottke Trucking, Inc., for a conversation on what it takes to lead through change in trucking. From navigating market volatility and payment pressure to protecting temperature-sensitive freight when conditions are anything but predictable, Kyle brings insight shaped by years in operations, negotiation, freight management, and financial strategy. We’ll talk about reliability when it counts, the difference between a carrier and a true partner, and the leadership lessons that come from building teams, serving drivers, and staying grounded when the industry keeps shifting. Tune in for a conversation grounded in real freight experience — from cold chain reliability and carrier partnerships to what it takes to lead through market volatility, protect shipper trust, and keep supply chains moving when conditions get complicated.

The freight market is improving. But better rates don’t solve old problems. After years of fighting through one of the toughest freight cycles, carriers and brokers are facing a different challenge: deciding how to grow without making the same mistakes. Todd Waldron joins Nate Johnson to discuss what they're hearing across the industry, why operational flexibility matters more than ever, where technology is creating real value, and how strong customer relationships continue to separate companies that react from those that prepare. The market may be changing, but sustainable growth still comes down to the same fundamentals. Whether you're leading a fleet, brokerage, logistics operation, or transportation technology company, this conversation offers insights on navigating the next stage of the freight market while building an operation that's prepared for whatever comes after.

Technology only creates value when people know how to use it. Driving Forward revisits a conversation between Nate Johnson and Dr. Gina Anderson, CEO of Luma Brighter Learning and Learning Scientist. Long before AI became the center of every conversation, Dr. Gina Anderson was helping transportation companies rethink how people learn, adapt, and embrace change. As a learning scientist and CEO of Luma Brighter Learning, Gina believes the strongest organizations don't just train their people. They build cultures where learning becomes part of the job. With the upcoming launch of her new book, Powered by People: Building Culture That Outlasts the Founder, this conversation feels even more relevant today than when it was first recorded. As transportation continues to evolve, success depends on more than adopting new technology. It depends on helping people adapt alongside it. From AI and onboarding to safety culture, leadership, change management, and continuous learning, the conversation explores ideas that resonate across nearly every corner of a transportation organization.

Pam has earned Carrier of the Year honors and worked with over 3,000 customers. But what sets her apart is turning her hardest lessons into a roadmap for the next generation of operators. 🚛 She survived her first year of asset ownership during COVID and leads 6 businesses with a mission to teach others. Welcome back Pam Polyak — 3rd generation trucking owner, primary owner of Polyak Trucking, Logistics & Consulting, and a force in this industry for over 20 years. Pam joins host Nate Johnson for a conversation that every owner-operator and fleet owner needs to hear. Here's a glimpse of what they're getting into: 📋 Accountability & Continued Education for Owners 🤖 Use of AI in Small Businesses 👨‍👩‍👧 The Human Side of Running a Family-Owned Trucking Company This is an episode for our owner-operators and small fleet owners looking to run smarter, grow stronger, and scale with confidence. We’ll see you there!

The freight market is moving again, but that does not mean the pressure is gone. Rates are shifting. Capacity is tightening in some areas. Costs remain high. Carriers, brokers, and freight tech companies are still feeling the effects of a long, difficult market. Nate Johnson and Robert Bain discuss what they're hearing from transportation and logistics companies right now, including freight market conditions, sales strategy, technology adoption, operational efficiency, leadership decisions, and preparing for the next market cycle. As the market begins to shift, many leaders are asking the same questions: Are we improving fast enough? Is our pipeline strong enough? Are the right people in the right roles? Is our technology creating leverage or adding complexity? Are we prepared for what comes next? The companies that come out stronger won't be the ones waiting for conditions to improve. They'll be the ones strengthening customer relationships, improving operations, evaluating technology, and making the hard decisions that position them for what's next. The market may be getting better, but better doesn't mean easy. This is the time to clean up what's inefficient, strengthen what's working, and make sure your business is ready for the next cycle. And yes, Nate's new glasses give him a slight comic book villain energy in this one, so consider that a bonus.

Technology has changed. Pricing has changed. Expectations around visibility and data have changed.  But one challenge has remained the same:  How do carriers, shippers, and technology providers make better decisions with better information?   Lance Healy joins Nate Johnson to discuss what FreightFacts is launching, the current state of the industry, what’s changing in LTL, why better data matters, and how technology can help carriers, brokers, and shippers make smarter decisions. And because it’s Nate and Lance, there’s a good chance the conversation will also drift into boats, music, and whatever else comes up along the way. Whether you're a carrier, shipper, 3PL, technology provider, or simply interested in the future of freight, this conversation offers valuable insights from someone who has spent much of his career helping move the industry forward.

Melanie Simard didn’t build her career from one side of the industry. She built it from nearly every angle possible.She started in brokerage, but decided early on that she wanted real experience on the asset side of trucking. So she got her Class 1 CDL and went driving long-haul reefer.When she was told women didn’t belong in flatbed, she went there too.From the cab to dispatch, operations, safety, and compliance leadership, Melanie built her career the hard way. Step by step. Learning the industry firsthand instead of from a distance.Today, as VP of Safety, Compliance & Technical Support at ISAAC Instruments, she helps fleets across North America navigate safety, compliance, technology, and operational accountability at a higher level.But this conversation with Nate Johnson goes far beyond regulations and software.🤝 It’s about earning respect.📈 Adapting through change.🔎 And what leadership actually looks like in an industry that has historically been built on toughness, independence, and pressure.This isn’t a polished corporate story. It’s a career built through experience, persistence, and proving people wrong along the way.

Freight fraud hasn’t slowed down. It’s evolved. Cargo theft, identity fraud, phishing attacks, double brokering, fake carriers… the tactics keep changing, and the companies staying ahead are the ones paying attention to both operations and cybersecurity. In this replay of Driving Forward, Nate Johnson is joined by Dale Prax of FreightValidate, Steve Vest of Nationwide Equipment Transportation, and Robert Bain of GLCS for a conversation focused on where freight fraud is heading and what trucking companies should be doing right now to reduce exposure. Together they discuss: 👉 Emerging freight fraud tactics impacting carriers and brokers 👉 Cybersecurity gaps that often lead to larger operational risks 👉 Red flags hidden in dispatching, rate confirmations, and factoring 👉 Why relying too heavily on technology without process controls creates vulnerabilities 👉 Steps companies can take to strengthen operations before fraud happens This conversation goes beyond headlines and theory. It’s a practical look at how fraud actually works inside freight operations and where companies are still getting caught off guard. Whether you’re running a fleet, managing brokerage operations, handling risk, or overseeing IT and security, this is a conversation worth revisiting.

Growth in logistics rarely comes from shortcuts. It comes from consistency, accountability, and making the right decisions when they’re hardest to make. Chris Sonnek, Director of Operations at TEN Logistics, joins Nate Johnson on the Driving Forward Podcast for a conversation centered on the operational realities shaping trucking and logistics right now. With experience across truckload, LTL, warehousing, and final mile operations, Chris brings a perspective grounded in leadership, customer relationships, and operational discipline. Their conversation will cover: ▶️ DOT Blitz Week and fleet readiness ▶️ Spot freight vs. contract freight strategies ▶️ Balancing growth, technology, and customer service ▶️ Why doing the hard right still matters in leadership Every trucking company wants growth. Not every company is willing to handle what comes with it. If you’re involved in trucking, brokerage, fleet operations, or logistics leadership, this conversation delivers practical insight into the challenges and decisions shaping the industry today.

AI is showing up in every corner of trucking right now. Dispatch. Safety. Maintenance. Recruiting. Customer service. Fuel optimization. Driver communication. And for a lot of trucking company leaders, it’s becoming hard to separate what’s real from what’s just marketing noise. After months of conversations at conferences and industry events, one thing has become clear: the technology gap inside trucking is growing faster than many people realize. Some fleets are actively building operational strategies around AI and automation. Others are still trying to understand where these tools even fit into day-to-day operations. Jeff Resch of ‪@HyperscaleSystems‬ joins Nate Johnson and Robert Bain on Driving Forward to break down AI in a way that actually makes sense for trucking operations. Their conversation will cover: 👉 The difference between “AI buzzwords” and real operational impact 👉 Where fleets are already seeing practical results today 👉 How AI can support dispatch, safety, maintenance, customer service, and drivers 👉 What leaders should be paying attention to before competitors pull ahead The goal isn’t to turn trucking companies into tech experts overnight. It’s to help leaders better understand the landscape, ask smarter questions, and avoid getting left behind as AI continues reshaping the industry.

Fraud in freight isn’t slowing down. It’s getting smarter… and harder to spot. And more often than most realize… It doesn’t start with a stolen load. It starts with a cyber breach. Behind many instances of freight fraud today is a compromised system, a phishing attempt, or a small gap in cybersecurity that opens the door to something much bigger. A missed step. A broken process. A gap that someone knew how to exploit. Nate Johnson will be joined by Ben Wilkens and Joe Ohr of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association to break down what they’re seeing firsthand across the industry: 👉 How cyber breaches are fueling freight fraud across the industry 👉 Where fraudsters are exploiting everyday workflows 👉 What most companies overlook until it’s too late 👉 Why cybersecurity isn’t just IT’s job - it’s an operational responsibility Their discussion will also touch on a new industry resource designed to combat these threats: FreightFraudHub.com — built to help companies better understand, identify, and respond to evolving fraud tactics. If you’re running trucks, managing freight, building systems, or making decisions that impact operations - this conversation highlights what’s at risk, what’s changing, and what needs attention now.

APIs changed how freight connects. So why are so many decisions still disconnected? 🚚 We’re replaying a past Driving Forward conversation with Lance Healy (Co-Founder/CEO of FreightFacts.io) and Nate Johnson - originally recorded in July 2025 - because the ideas behind today’s LTL technology, pricing, and data standards didn’t happen overnight. They were built over time. Lance has been part of that build from the beginning - starting in the early days of LTL tech and helping push forward some of the systems the industry now depends on. In this rehighlighted conversation, he walks through: 👉 How APIs evolved in logistics—and why they matter more than ever 👉 The story behind dynamic pricing and how it changed LTL decision-making 👉 Lessons learned from building and scaling multiple freight tech companies 👉 Where fuel fraud and industry risks are showing up today 👉 What Freight Facts is solving with data-driven shipper scorecards Better data doesn’t just improve efficiency. It changes how decisions get made across the entire operation. From pricing freight more accurately to understanding shipper behavior, the companies that operate with clearer data are the ones positioned to move faster—and smarter. If you’re involved in LTL, pricing, operations, or freight technology, this is a conversation worth revisiting with today’s perspective.  

Fuel is up. Parking is tight. Pressure is building.But what’s really happening out on the road? With 2M+ accident-free miles and more than 20 years over the road, Chris Thomas has seen the industry from all angles. From navigating day-to-day realities behind the wheel to building a growing presence online, even gaining attention overseas in Japan, his perspective reaches beyond a single lane. Nate Johnson connects with Chris to explore what life on the road really looks like right now: 👉 The impact of rising diesel prices on driver decisions👉 The current state of truck parking and where the gaps still exist👉 Unseen challenges drivers are facing today The reality of trucking isn’t built in reports…It’s built out on the road. If you’re part of this industry, whether you’re running a fleet, managing operations, or behind the wheel yourself, this is a perspective worth hearing before the next decision gets made.

Some leaders grow companies. Others build systems that scale long after they step away. 🚚 Jason Nesbitt, President & Founder of Trucking Proz, has spent more than 25 years doing both. From launching and scaling multiple organizations to leading one of North America’s top fleets, Jason has survived experiences across truckload, refrigerated freight, cross-border operations, and complex supply chain environments. Nate Johnson and Jason Nesbitt touch on what it really takes to build (and protect) a transportation company in today’s environment: 👉 Navigating a freight recession with discipline 👉 Making decisions based on numbers over emotion 👉 Building teams with the right mix of personalities At its core, this episode is about more than transportation. If you’re focused on building a transportation company that holds under pressure, this conversation goes deeper than the "what-if's". It’s about leadership under pressure, operational discipline, and building something that actually works...day in and day out.

Some voices in trucking don’t just tell the story… they are the story. 🚚 Ingrid Brown - Operations Manager at Blackjack Express LLC and a professional driver - brings 46 years of trucking experience to the Driving Forward Podcast, joining Nate Johnson for this conversation. From hauling specialized refrigerated and oversize freight to advising on safety at the national level, Ingrid brings a perspective few in this industry can match. In this conversation, they'll explore: • What nearly five decades in trucking teaches you about resilience • Why safety isn’t a talking point... it’s a responsibility carried by every driver and every fleet • the impact of Driver and Operations relationships on performance, culture, and retention • The role of mentorship and advocacy in shaping the next generation of drivers This story goes beyond experience, Ingrid is recognized across the industry: 🏆 2026 Women in Trucking Driver of the Year 🏆 Women in Trucking Board Member 🏆 FMCSA safety advocate and national industry voice Still actively driving. Still leading operations. Still pushing the industry forward. If you’re in trucking, logistics, or fleet leadership, this is a conversation grounded in real miles, real challenges, and real perspective.

At MATS, the real conversations are happening across the floor, in the shop, and between industry leaders comparing what’s actually working. In this episode of the Driving Forward Podcast, Nate Johnson and Robert Bain kick things off with a recap of key takeaways from MATS before diving into a series of panel conversations with leaders across trucking and logistics. From fuel efficiency strategies and rising cost pressures to the role of AI and connected technologies in daily operations, this episode brings together real-world perspectives on what fleets are prioritizing right now. It’s not about chasing every new tool, it’s about making smarter decisions with the ones that directly impact performance, cost, and long-term sustainability. If you’re leading a fleet or navigating operations in today’s market, this conversation offers practical perspective on managing fuel costs, evaluating technology, and making smarter decisions in a rapidly changing industry.Panel Speakers:Todd Waldren of Truckstop.comAdam Wingfield of Innovative Logistics Group, LLCNate Johnson of GLCSAlex Mai of Mutha Trucker NewsPatricia Waquespack of Multi Service Fuel CardJamie Hagen of Hell Bent XpressPam Polyak of Polyak Trucking, Logistics & Consulting

At TMC 2026, one theme kept surfacing across every conversation: Fleet maintenance technology is a strategic advantage. In this special compilation episode of the Driving Forward Podcast, Nate Johnson speaks with leaders across fleet maintenance, telematics, and transportation technology about what’s really changing behind the scenes. From modern maintenance platforms to real-time visibility, AI-driven automation, and breakdown response innovation, this episode brings together the perspectives shaping how fleets operate, maintain assets, and control costs in today’s market. Across every conversation, one reality stands out: Technology alone isn’t solving the problem. Execution, integration, and usability are. 🚚 Whether you’re running a fleet, leading operations, or rethinking your tech stack, this episode offers a clear, ground-level view of where fleet maintenance is heading next. Special thanks to TMC and our guests. Jay Stone of Squarerigger Mike Uremovich of Xirgo Technologies Craig Schneider of Tow4Tech Jeff Walker of SDVerse Travis Coffman of DataDis

Join Nate Johnson on the Driving Forward Podcast with Grace Sharkey, Senior Manager of Communications & PR at Orderful, as they prepare to discuss the trends shaping transportation, logistics, and the supply chain today - and the question many leaders are trying to answer: 👉 Where is freight really heading next? In this upcoming episode:• How FreightTech and data connectivity are changing operations• The growing pressure rising fuel costs are putting on carriers and supply chains• Where supply chain visibility and EDI modernization are improving 🚚 For carriers, brokers, shippers, and supply chain leaders who want clarity, not hype, around the technologies and trends shaping freight — this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. 👉 Subscribe for real conversations at the intersection of freight, technology, and leadership.

What’s actually happening inside trucking right now? At the 2026 Truckload Carriers Association Annual Conference, Nate Johnson sat down with leaders across the freight industry discussing what’s shaping the next chapter in trucking. Their conversations explore: • How AI is starting to automate dispatch, load booking, and operational workflows • Why modern TMS platforms are adding intelligence layers to core carrier systems • What carriers are learning from each other through conversations, sessions, and networking at TCA From emerging AI platforms to evolving TMS capabilities and advanced decision systems, one theme surfaced repeatedly: Technology is accelerating, but carriers still have to decide how to use it. ▶️ Watch the full episode for a snapshot of what trucking leaders are discussing right now - from new technology to operational strategy to the value of staying connected as an industry. A special thanks to our guests who made this episode possible: Graig Morin (Brown Dog Carriers)Tom Curee (Qued) Tapan Chaudhari (Bubba.ai) Jason Douglass & John Partain (PCS Software) Zach Schuchart (Optimal Dynamics) Moe Saleh (Greatway Transportation)

This week, we’re revisiting a powerful past conversation between Nate Johnson and Kristy Knichel, CEO of Knichel Logistics. It may be a rerun, but the lessons are as relevant as ever. From freight fraud to recession pressure to disciplined technology investment, this episode covers the real forces shaping freight markets behind the scenes and what strong operators are doing about them. Key Topics of Discussion: ⚠️Freight Fraud & Cargo Theft: The red flags leaders cannot afford to ignore, where threats are evolving, and how to protect both loads and reputation. 📝Recession Lessons: How Knichel Logistics navigates economic headwinds and why fundamentals, not panic, determine who survives a cycle. 💬Communication & Leadership: The internal pressure points growing teams face and the leadership shifts that keep organizations aligned when margins tighten. Whether you’re running a brokerage, leading a carrier, or shaping logistics strategy, this conversation delivers grounded perspective from two industry voices who understand freight from the inside out. ▶️ Watch or rewatch the full episode and apply the lessons to where your business stands today.

Freight leadership isn’t built in boardrooms, it’s built in the moments that test you.In this week’s episode of Driving Forward, Nate Johnson is joined by Will Jenkins (Journey) and Bill Champine (Venture Logistics) for real talk on the weight leaders carry across fleets, operations, and technology.This conversation gets into the pressure behind the decisions, the people behind the performance, and the realities of leading when the industry doesn’t slow down and the answers aren’t always clear.They’ll share lessons learned the hard way, from navigating change and accountability to balancing growth, culture, and operational demands in the real world of freight.If you lead in freight — or aspire to — this is a conversation worth being part of.

Manifest 2026 was less “trade show” and more “the industry showed up to work.” In this recap episode of Driving Forward, Nate Johnson sits down with Robert Bain, Susan Mayo, Jennie Malafarina and Danielle Spinelli to unpack what made this year feel different: real business happening in real time, with 8,800+ attendees and calendars packed with decision-making meetings. A few big themes surfaced: ⭐ AI is everywhere. Clarity isn’t. If everyone says “AI,” it’s no longer the differentiator. Outcomes matter more than labels. ⭐ Security is non-negotiable. Data ownership, API protection, and vendor stability aren’t optional in a sea of startups. ⭐ Connections still win. The biggest opportunities came from real conversations, not just booth traffic. ⭐ Be intentional or waste the trip. Strategy beats attendance. Meetings, expo time, and even dinners require planning. It’s part conference debrief, part industry pulse-check, with a side of Vegas energy (and a legendary FR8MVMT event recap). 🎲⚡ Listen to the full conversation to hear what’s changing in freight tech, what’s worth investing in, and how to navigate the AI noise without getting burned.

Capacity is tightening. Rates are under pressure. And more freight is spilling into the spot market. Oliver Jones (Co-Founder & CEO of Manifold Freight), Chris Ceausu (Founder of White Arrow Trucking), and Cole Stevens (Director of Strategy & Business Development at Stevens Trucking) joins Nate Johnson to explore how today’s freight market is being experienced across technology, operations, and carrier leadership. The panel discusses current market conditions, the evolving capacity landscape, and how questions around non-domiciled CDLs are showing up in conversations about rates and load placement. They also examine why more freight appears to be landing in the spot market — and what that shift may signal for fleets, brokers, and shippers navigating uncertainty. This isn’t about predictions or hot takes. It’s a real-world conversation grounded in experience, focused on how industry leaders are interpreting the signals in front of them and thinking through the decisions that matter right now. If you’re navigating rate volatility and capacity uncertainty, this episode offers perspective without the noise.

Freight markets don’t care about your legacy, and family businesses don’t get a “pause” button when the cycle turns.We’re joined by Mike McDonough for a straight-shooting conversation on what it really takes to lead a family-run transportation company in today’s market. We get into the realities behind the numbers: staying disciplined when rates move, protecting service without giving away the farm, and building a business that can survive the downcycle and be ready for the next climb.If you’re a carrier, broker, or shipper trying to make smart decisions in a noisy market, this one’s for you.

Join Nate Johnson along with Dale Prax and Danielle Spinelli as they cover the very real (and very messy) world of cybercrime, cargo theft, and freight fraud — how it all connects, and the big question everyone’s wondering: Are we actually getting better at stopping it? In this episode:• Why fraud and cargo theft are bigger than just lost dollars• How fake carriers, identity fraud, and double brokering really happen• What the data says about progress (and where gaps still exist)• Practical steps you can take today to reduce risk Built for carriers, brokers, shippers, and logistics leaders who want clarity — not fear — around today’s risks. 👉 Subscribe for real conversations at the intersection of freight, tech, and security👍Like & Comment on whether you think the industry is actually getting better at stopping fraud and cargo theft!

Manifest has quickly become a place where business gets done in the supply chain, not just ideas and not just panels. In this conversation, Nate Johnson and Robert Bain are joined by Katie Date, Senior Vice President of Industry Relations & Strategic Initiatives at Manifest, to break down what’s driving that momentum.Katie pulls back the curtain on how Manifest has evolved into a true end-to-end supply chain event, bringing together shippers, carriers, brokers, and freight-tech leaders in one place to create connection, collaboration, and measurable ROI. They discuss how the event has scaled without losing its “supply chain reunion” feel, and why partnerships, funding, and growth opportunities continue to come out of the show floor.You’ll also hear:What first-time attendees should expect and how to maximize ROIHow Manifest balances size with meaningful connectionWhy more carriers and trucking leaders are showing up each yearHow deals, partnerships, and long-term relationships actually get done at Manifest🎧 Whether you’re attending Manifest, considering it, or simply want a pulse on where supply chain leadership is moving, this episode delivers the context that matters.

Trucking doesn’t just move freight. It changes lives.But only when someone is given a real chance to get behind the wheel. In this live episode of Driving Forward, host Nate Johnson is joined by leaders from the South Dallas Driving Academy, Chris Petersen, CTP and Von Minor, along with professional truck driver Germany Williams. Germany grew up in South Dallas, where the world often felt small and opportunities were limited. A single chance to see more changed his trajectory — leading him to trucking, a career that demanded discipline, responsibility, and resilience, and gave him a way forward. Today, he drives professionally and mentors others, carrying lessons from the road that helped inspire something bigger than his own story. Chris and Von share how the South Dallas Driving Academy was created to tackle one of the industry’s most overlooked barriers: access to driver’s licenses and CDLs. They walk through how the academy is opening doors for students and adults in underserved communities, building partnerships, and creating real career pathways into trucking and transportation. In this episode, you’ll hear:💡 How access, not talent, is often the biggest barrier to opportunity💡 Why one license can change the direction of a life💡 What workforce development looks like when it’s rooted in community💡 Why investing in people matters more than ever in truckingThis conversation isn’t about titles or résumés. It’s about access, belief, and what happens when someone finally gets the keys.

Real conversations don’t wait for perfect timing. They happen wherever truckers are. This special New Year's Day episode of Driving Forward is a collection of real conversations, captured where trucking actually happens. From the Mid-America Trucking Show… to the Trucker’s Jamboree at the I-80 Truck Stop… to a driver sitting in his truck at a manufacturer’s warehouse in Chicago waiting to deliver a load. These moments weren’t planned or polished. They happened in real time, in real places, with people living this industry every single day. You’ll hear unseen footage with Jessica Howington from United Commercial Insurance , who grew up in a trucking family and speaks openly about the sacrifices drivers and their families make and how often those realities go unseen. You’ll also hear from Jamie Hagen of Hell Bent Express, recorded straight from the driver’s seat. Even with limited time, Jamie shares hard-earned lessons about fuel efficiency, discipline, learning the hard way, and what it really takes to survive as a small fleet owner when margins are tight and the freight still has to move. The episode closes with Bill Bess from Allen Lund Company, reflecting on more than 50 years in trucking, from life before deregulation to today’s digital freight world. His perspective bridges generations and reminds us how much the industry has changed, and how much still comes down to trust and relationships. No studio. No script. No filters. Just honest conversations, happening in booths, parking lots, truck stops — and sometimes right before a delivery has to unload.

This episode originally aired earlier this year, and we’re bringing it back on December 25 because the message still matters. Julie Andrich, CEO of Autumn Transport, didn’t step into leadership by title — she earned it. Starting as a dispatch assistant, she worked her way through nearly every role in the company before leading a 100% owner-operator fleet built on trust, accountability, and real relationships. Nate Johnson sat down with Julie for an honest conversation about leading a family business, earning respect in trucking, navigating growth and COVID, and why values like integrity, service, and people-first leadership still matter, especially when the industry gets hard. If you need advice on retaining good drivers and want to build something that holds up over time, this is worth a listen.

2025 was a year that shook the industry: freight recession pressures, fleet shutdowns, bankruptcies, M&A waves, tougher FMCSA scrutiny, a spike in freight fraud, and tech reshaping every corner of operations. In this rapid-fire roundtable, host Nate Johnson teams up with GLCS leaders Susan Mayo, Michael Demers, Robert Bain, and Ed Streeter to break down the stories that defined the year… and the signals pointing to what’s coming in 2026. They tackle the biggest headlines: earnings calls from CH and RXO post-Coyote, the 44% noncompliance rate in CDL schools, tightened ELD certification, shifting shipper expectations, rising fraud schemes hitting carriers and brokers, and how AI, automation, and clean data have become fleets’ secret weapon from profitability to legal protection. Then they look ahead: What will 2026 bring for carriers, brokers, drivers, and tech adoption? Which changes are permanent, and where is the market headed next? Fast, candid, and loaded with real-world insight. This is your year-end reality check and your roadmap for what’s coming.

The average life expectancy of a truck driver is just 61 years.That’s not a number.That’s a warning.Maybe you’ve heard this statistic. Maybe you haven’t.But the real question is, what are you doing to change it?Jeremy Reymer and Dr. Mark Manera are working to change it through Project 61 — a movement and non-profit dedicated to giving drivers longer, healthier lives by reshaping how the industry approaches wellness, lifestyle, and work on the road.With Offshift’s driver-health technology now integrated into Project 61, education and wellness resources are becoming accessible to every driver and every fleet.On this episode of Driving Forward, we break down:📍 How small habits can transform long-term driver wellness📍 The Offshift → Project 61 story and future vision📍 Nutrition, movement & rest - even when you're living behind the wheel📍 Why healthier drivers = stronger fleets, lower turnover, safer roads📍 How technology, community, and awareness can change livesThis conversation isn’t just about fitness.It’s about longevity, dignity, and giving drivers time back.Whether you’re a fleet leader, driver, advocate, or simply someone who cares about trucking, you’ll walk away with something actionable — and something hopeful.→ Learn more. Get involved. Join the movement.Because 61 years isn’t enough.

In this episode of Driving Forward, I sit down with my friend Charley Dehoney to talk about what it really looks like to build in this industry when the stakes are personal. We get into buying and scaling a legacy brokerage, feeling the pressure of payroll, and carrying the weight of knowing other people’s families are tied to your decisions. We talk about growing up in logistics, trying to be a present husband and dad while still chasing big outcomes, and what it costs mentally and emotionally to keep pushing when the easy choice would be to tap out.We also dig into the side of freight most people do not want to talk about in public. The broken billing. The AR black hole. The quiet back office killers who keep companies alive while chaos swirls around them. Charley shares why he built Upwell, how he thinks about cash flow as a growth engine instead of a headache, and where AI and automation actually fit in for real operators. If you live in this space and you have ever asked yourself whether all of this is worth it, this conversation is going to hit very close to home.

In this episode of Driving Forward, Chris DeMillo of Leonard’s Express and host Nate Johnson, fresh off their panel at the Trimble Insight User Conference in New Orleans, break down one of the toughest challenges in transportation technology: getting executive buy-in.Nate and Chris revisit their session, “Selling the Vision: Communicating Tech ROI to Win Executive Buy-In,” and expand on how transportation leaders can move beyond features and functionality to clearly articulate business value.They’ll cover:💡 What CEOs, CFOs, and owners really care about when evaluating technology investments💡 How to translate features into business outcomes, strategic alignment, and financial impact💡 The difference between presenting ROI… and making ROI believable💡 How to handle tough objections, skepticism, and “we’ve tried this before” fatigue💡 Their favorite takeaways, questions, and reactions from the Trimble Insight audienceIf you’ve ever struggled to champion technology inside your organization, or you’re responsible for explaining ROI to leadership, this episode gives you practical tools, real-world insights, and proven strategies straight off the conference stage.Chapters:00:00 Intro03:40 Trimble Insight Conference Recap05:57 Guest Introductions18:51 Tech Adoption & ROI Discussion30:59 Cost of Tech in Business31:18 Evaluating Legacy Solutions34:32 Tailoring Communication for Execs42:30 Building Trust & Internal Champions53:12 Ensuring Long-Term Tech Value

Trucking stands at a crossroads with shifting markets, tightening regulations, and new technology redefining how freight moves. ATRI’s newly released Top 10 Industry Issues for 2025 lays out the biggest challenges facing trucking leaders, and this episode of Driving Forward tackles them head on. Host Nate Johnson sits down with three powerhouse voices from the field, Pamela Polyak Polyak (Owner, Polyak Trucking, Logistics & Consulting), Brent Bois (President, Calhoun Truck Lines), and Robert "Pedro" Petersen (The Logistics Lounge co-host & Senior Agent, Synergy Freight), for a candid look at what’s really keeping carriers and brokers up at night. From the economy’s ongoing uncertainty to lawsuit abuse reform, insurance costs, truck parking shortages, and the rise of AI-driven logistics, this discussion brings real-world perspective from the people living it every day.

This week on Driving Forward, we’re honoring our nation’s heroes ahead of Veterans Day with Wreaths Across America - a year-round mission to Remember. Honor. Teach.Guests: • Courtney George, WAA Director of Transportation & Industry Relations • Graig Morin, WAA Board Member & President of Brown Dog Carriers & LogisticsTopics include: 🔷 The upcoming Dec 13th Wreaths Across America Day and its nationwide impact 🔷 How to volunteer, sponsor wreaths, or haul wreaths to cemeteries across the U.S. 🔷 How Brown Dog Carriers supports the mission by delivering wreaths with purpose 🔷 Why this effort continues all year — teaching future generations the value of freedomJoin us as we celebrate service, sacrifice, and the power of the trucking community to keep this mission moving forward.

Every logistics team trains. The best ones turn that training into results.This Halloween, join Nate Johnson, CEO of GLCS, for a special Friday episode of Driving Forward featuring Dr. Gina Anderson, CEO of Luma Brighter Learning, a 3-time Inc. 5000 honoree and leading expert in learning science for the supply chain.Together, they dig into how real learning happens and why it’s the backbone of today’s most successful logistics operations.From AI-powered training to hands-on learning experiences, onboarding, retraining, and continuous improvement, Nate and Dr. Anderson share how technology and people combine to create safer, stronger, and more connected logistics teams.No tricks, just practical magic to help your network move smarter and faster🎃💡 Key Takeaways:The science behind how logistics teams actually learnHow AI is reshaping workforce and customer training across supply chainsHow logistics leaders use technology to power continuous learningReal-world examples of smarter, safer operational learningWhy continuous learning drives long-term logistics excellenceAbout Dr. Gina Anderson:Dr. Anderson, CEO of Luma Brighter Learning, is a learning scientist, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author reshaping how logistics companies approach safety, compliance, and learning culture.00:00 Intro06:03 Introducing Dr. Gina Anderson09:28 The Importance of Effective Training13:20 Strategies for Continuous Learning35:31 AI in Learning and Its Implications43:06 Training Strategies and Change Management49:40 Success Stories and Future Plans

Freight fraud is evolving fast and so are the ways to stop it.Join host Nate Johnson for a live Driving Forward panel with:Dale Prax : Founder, FreightValidateSteve Vest: Owner, Nationwide Equipment Transportation Inc.Pop-in: Special GuestsThe newest freight-fraud patterns & dataPractical advice to prevent cargo theft at the dock, on the road, and in your back officeHow to harden your operation against cargo theft ringsRed flags in dispatching, rate cons, and factoring that should trigger a deeper reviewCybersecurity must-dos to block credential stuffing, phishing, and account takeoversIncident response: what to do in the first 60 minutes and how to preserve evidenceWe’ll break down the latest freight-fraud tactics and real incidents, then share practical steps to harden your operation on the road and in your tech stack.What you’ll learn:Who should watch?Trucking company owners, safety & security leaders, brokerage ops, IT & risk teams, and anyone responsible for protecting freight and reputation.00:00 Introduction04:13 Freight Fraud: The Growing Threat05:31 Meet the Experts11:46 Current Trends in Freight Fraud30:26 Tech Platforms and Fraud Awareness31:26 Cybersecurity and Freight Fraud35:54 SaaS Platforms and Backup Plans38:07 Challenges with Technology Reliance39:21 Agent Model in Freight Brokerage43:38 Impact of COVID on Freight Industry44:23 Regulatory Measures and Fraud Prevention48:14 Shippers' Role in Fraud Prevention

We’re back for Take 2! Last time, the conversation was too good to let internet issues get in the way so we’re bringing back Melanie Patterson, Founder & Managing Director of Integrity Global Logistics and Team Integrity Knowledge Center, for a fresh round on Driving Forward.Melanie has built her business by winning and delivering on government contracts and teaching others how to do the same. Government contracts can be a powerful engine for growth, but landing them takes strategy, persistence, and the right preparation. Melanie knows the formula, and she’s here to share how it’s done. In this episode, you’ll hear:• How to position your company for government opportunities• The certifications, compliance steps, and groundwork that matter most• Common pitfalls to avoid when bidding and executing contracts• Real lessons from Melanie’s journey scaling Integrity Global Logistics This conversation is full of practical tips and real-world stories to help you not just win government work but deliver on it successfully.00:00 Intro07:02 Today's Guest: Melanie Patterson09:39 Deep Dive into Government Contracting31:11 Handling Long-Term Government Contracts33:43 The Role of Mentoring in Government Contracting34:20 Introduction to Team Integrity Knowledge Center38:05 Exploring FEMA TSP and Diversification49:52 Common Mistakes and Success Stories in Government Contracting

Kristy Knichel, second-generation CEO of Knichel Logistics, Inc., returns to Driving Forward for a timely conversation with host Nate Johnson on the challenges and opportunities shaping freight today.They’ll cover:🔷 Freight fraud: Red flags and how brokers & carriers can protect themselves.🔷 Recession lessons: how Knichel Logistics is navigating the downcycle and how a focus on fundamentals is helping them thrive.🔷 Tech bets that pay: where Kristy is investing and why she’s cautious on AI hype.🔷 Quick hits: the latest market headlines and what they mean for your operationIt’s a candid, practical discussion between two industry voices who’ve lived freight from the inside out.00:00:00 Welcome00:04:16 Interview with Kristy Knichel00:12:47 Freight Fraud and Cargo Theft00:23:01 Rebuilding and Financial Discipline00:30:53 Communication Challenges in Companies00:34:06 Tequila Cargo Theft Incident00:42:48 Tech Investments and AI in Logistics00:51:53 Leadership Evolution and Challenges

The trucking industry is changing fast and drivers and owner-operators are feeling the impact.On episode 101 of Driving Forward, Alex Mai, of ‪@MuthaTrucker‬ News joins Nate Johnson to break down what’s happening on the ground and behind the wheel.They’ll cover:Proposed Hours of Service (HOS) changes and what they could mean for driversThe push for more transparency across brokers, carriers, and shippersMarket challenges and how drivers and owner-operators are getting by in today’s environmentWhether you’re behind the wheel, running a fleet, or just want to understand where the industry is headed, this conversation cuts through the noise and gets real about trucking today.

We made it to 100! 🚛🎙️On September 18th, join us for a special episode of Driving Forward as we celebrate this milestone. Nate Johnson and Robert Bain will be co-hosting, and a few of our past guests will be stopping by to join the conversation.We’ll be talking about:🔷 What’s on everyone’s mind in freight today🔷 Stories and moments from the first 100 episodes🔷 Some laughs, a few surprises, and a look back at favorite memoriesA celebration of 100 episodes told through stories, laughs, and honest conversations with friends in the industry.

Trucking is never steady. Markets rise and fall, freight rates shift, and regulations change. For small and mid-sized fleets, the challenge is building a business that can grow while staying steady through the volatility.Nate Johnson talks with Perry Olson, CEO/Owner of Fortune Transportation, about how a family-owned fleet scaled “one truck and a dream” while keeping its drivers, customers, and culture strong.They’ll discuss:🔷 Smart Growth That Lasts: How focusing on the right niche builds reliable freight and cushions against market swings🔷 Culture That Retains: Why mutual respect, home time, and recognition programs keep drivers engaged, reducing turnover costs and disruption🔷 Safety as a Business Strategy: How a safety-first mindset not only saves lives but also strengthens reputation and wins profitable freight🔷 Industry Involvement: Why staying engaged with associations like MTA gives fleets insights and influence that translate to resilience and opportunityIf you’re leading a trucking company or building one this conversation offers practical insights on keeping your fleet safe, your people committed, and your business stable no matter where the market goes.

As AI takes a bigger role in freight, how do brokers and carriers keep trust front and center? Todd Waldron, VP of Carrier Experience at Truckstop, joins Driving Forward host Nate Johnson into a candid look into where technology helps and where relationships still win. With nearly 20 years in trucking, including leading Q Carriers as CEO, Todd now guides carrier strategy and innovation at Truckstop. Together they cover ✅ AI in Freight - How artificial intelligence is impacting repetitive tasks, customer touchpoints, and where it risks replacing relationships.✅ Broker-Carrier Trust - Why balancing efficiency with genuine human connection is the future of freight partnerships.✅ Freight Fraud - The evolving tactics scammers use, and how Truckstop and the industry are working to protect carriers and brokers.✅ Private Loads & Innovation - New tools Truckstop is rolling out to help brokers build tighter, safer carrier networks.✅ Industry Resilience - Lessons from 30 years of Truckstop history and how adaptability shapes the future of logistics.✅ Leadership & Mindset - Why assuming good intent and focusing on relationships can help the industry pull in the same direction.It’s an open and practical look at how technology and relationships are shaping the road ahead together.

What does it take to run a truck that averages 10 MPG when most hit 6.5? Jamie Hagen, owner of Hell Bent Xpress, joins Nate on Driving Forward to share how he built a South Dakota fleet known for its all-Mack lineup, impressive fuel efficiency, and driver-first culture. Jamie’s trucking story started early riding with his dad at 3, getting his CDL at 18, and buying his first truck at 21. Today, he runs a growing fleet that’s “hellbent” on smart spec’ing, fuel economy, and treating drivers right. In this conversation, Jamie and Nate cover:Why he runs an all-Mack fleet and how he squeezes maximum efficiency out of every AnthemThe fuel-saving strategies every trucker and fleet can use to cut costsHis philosophy on driver treatment and why retention beats gimmicky recruitmentThe role of technology and data in the future of truckingWhether you’re an owner-operator, fleet manager, or trucking enthusiast, this is real talk from someone who’s lived the highs and lows of the road and found smarter ways to run.

The freight market is full of challenges right now—but with the right marketing strategy, carriers, brokers, and freight tech companies can steady the ride and set themselves apart.In this episode of Driving Forward, host Nate Johnson sits down with Whitney Cowell and Jennie Malafarina of Virago Marketing to talk about how smarter marketing can fuel growth, even in a tough season for trucking and logistics.Together, they dig into:Why adaptability is today’s most powerful strategyHow freight companies can sharpen their messaging and stand out in crowded marketsMisconceptions about trade shows, budgets, and “doing it all”The role of personal branding, storytelling, and niche focus in winning businessHow technology is changing SEO, advertising, and driver recruiting strategiesWhitney and Jennie bring real-world experience working with carriers, brokers, and freight tech firms, offering practical insights trucking leaders can apply right now.🎙 Driving Forward brings you real conversations with leaders in freight, technology, and logistics to help you navigate the road ahead.