Trucker Talk Radio

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Marie-Andrée Brodeur, marketing representative at C8 Energy, joins Justin to break down a clean energy technology that is quietly changing how trucks are powered from the inside out. C8 Energy has been operating for five years, growing from a startup with roots in a Canadian fleet's battery problem into a North American presence with installations at major carriers including Melton and Nussbaum.Maree explains how C8 Energy's Clean Tech Kit eliminates all lead-acid batteries from a commercial truck and replaces them with two core components: the SkelStart, a supercapacitor-based engine start module that delivers reliable cold-weather cranking with no hazmat concerns and over a million cycles, and a large-format lithium battery that powers the entire sleeper cab. Together, the system removes 500 to 700 pounds of lead-acid weight and replaces it with under 140 pounds of clean, low-maintenance technology. The result is effectively turning a sleeper cab into an RV, with stable power for microwaves, fridges, CPAPs, air fryers, and anything else a driver needs overnight.The numbers behind the technology are significant. C8 Energy calculates up to $9,000 in annual fuel savings per truck for high-idling operations, along with roughly $2,500 in reduced maintenance costs. Fleet data from Nussbaum showed one of their biggest idlers drop from over 40 percent idle time down to 3 percent after installation. The system installs in 5 to 6 hours at authorized mod centers and dealers, fits directly into the existing battery box, and includes a Bluetooth app so drivers can monitor their state of charge in real time.Justin and Maree also discuss the driver experience and the word-of-mouth effect the product has created. Drivers who were initially skeptical have become the product's most effective advocates at trade shows and in the field. The conversation also touches on the green emissions angle, with C8 Energy estimating up to 18 tons of emissions eliminated per truck annually, and the ongoing work to identify grant programs in the United States similar to those available in Canada.Chapters0:00 Intro0:48 Maree's Role at C8 Energy1:17 The Startup Story1:56 How C8 Energy Was Born6:38 Growing a Name in North America7:00 Who Is Watching and Why It Matters8:07 Driver Benefits: Autonomy and Idling10:49 Jump Starts, Downtime, and Road Delays11:12 The Clean Tech Kit Breakdown13:52 Universal Fit and Install Overview14:46 SkelStart Deep Dive17:44 Battery Box Fit and Intelligent BMS19:42 Fleet Retention and Driver Comfort20:21 Real Fleet Data: Melton and Nussbaum23:58 Grants and Government Incentives26:04 Maintenance Cost Savings Breakdown26:47 Fleet Adoption Across North America27:43 Install Time and Dealer Network28:40 Driver Feedback and Google Reviews32:27 RVing the Sleeper Cab34:09 Any Truck, Any Brand36:25 Education and Asking Questions37:39 Upcoming Trade Shows and Where to Find C838:42 Sponsor Mentions and OutroFollow Maree: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-andr%C3%A9e-brodeur-2850501b/Follow C8 Energy: https://www.linkedin.com/company/c8energy/Follow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #cleanenergy #c8energy #cleantechkit #skelstart #owneroperator #truckdriver #fleetmanagement #truckingtech #greentucking #lithiumbattery #supercapacitor #idlingreduction #truckingpodcast #trucklife #freightindustry

In this episode of Drivers First on Trucker Talk Radio, Daniel Kinsman, a third-generation truck driver and president of the Flatbed Safety Securement Group, joins Jon and Justin for a deep dive into what it truly means to master the craft of flatbed, step deck, and heavy haul trucking. Daniel's story starts at 7 years old, climbing into an FLA Freightliner cabover while his mother, one of Covenant Transport's first female trainers, homeschooled him across all 48 states and 4 provinces of Canada. From pay phones and Quailcomm units to a $4.5 million Faymonville trailer loaded with 380,000 pounds of iron, he has lived every era of this industry.Daniel breaks down the real rules of load securement, including chain spacing, strap counts, direct vs. indirect tie requirements, and the state-specific laws that go beyond the FMCSA Green Book. He explains how the rules governing flatbed were literally written in blood, and why the industry has a responsibility to pass that hard-earned knowledge down to the next generation. That mission is what drives the Flatbed Safety Securement Group, a Facebook community he now leads that was born out of a roadside encounter with a driver who had no idea how to secure a load of shingles.The conversation also covers the career patience required to succeed in specialized freight, why staying with a company for a full year builds the kind of trust that unlocks the best freight, and how Daniel's reputation for asking questions and going above and beyond earned him an 11-load dedicated run for a customer he had never met before. He also shares the story of hauling components for the USS Doris Miller nuclear aircraft carrier and crawling up Mount Eagle at 6 miles per hour with 19 axles on the ground.If you are a flatbed driver, an owner-operator thinking about stepping into open deck freight, or a fleet manager who wants to understand what separates a good driver from a great one, this episode is packed with lessons you will not find in any manual.Chapters0:00 Intro0:52 Daniel's Background1:15 Third Generation Trucker2:31 Cabovers, Quailcomm & Industry Changes3:45 Pay Phones, Dispatchers & Patience6:54 Atlas Maps & Old-School Navigation8:19 Marine Corps & Smart Tech Implementation11:39 Learning Flatbed at TMC12:05 Pride in Flatbed Work14:01 Moving to Hunt & RGN Training15:45 Learning Heavy Haul the Right Way18:53 Flatbed Safety Securement Group20:55 Why Securement Rules Were Written in Blood26:56 Load Securement Rules Explained31:49 Driver Turnover & Staying Put36:20 Building a Reputation That Gets You Better Freight40:51 Being a Team Player42:30 Craziest Loads Hauled44:06 380,000 Pounds from Savannah47:59 Sponsor Shoutouts & ClosingFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Daniel KinsmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-kinsman-168a60a7/Website: https://www.flatbed-safety.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/565976911535966/Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #driversfirst #flatbedtrucking #loadsecurement #heavyhaul #rgn #owneroperator #truckinglife #truckdriver #truckingpodcast #flatbedsafety #truckingindustry #opendeckfreight #truckingsafety #danielkinsman #flatbedsafetySecurementgroup #cdldriver #behindthewheelhouse

In this episode of Drivers First on Trucker Talk Radio, Sutton, better known as Sutton Transit, joins Justin Holden for a wide-ranging conversation about life on the road, building a trucking career the right way, and why Prime Inc. has earned his genuine loyalty after 14 years in the industry. A military veteran who deployed to Iraq, returned as a civilian contractor with KBR, and stumbled into trucking after a childhood moment backing up his dad's delivery trailer at 13 years old, Sutton's path to the cab was anything but a straight line.Sutton walks through the hard lessons: blowing through $40,000 in savings because he didn't know about factoring companies, bouncing between carriers, losing his CDL address in a divorce, watching the oil field market crash just as he rebuilt his own authority, and coming within 8 months of paying off a Prime lease truck before family pulled him back home. He's candid about every mistake, and that honesty is exactly what has made his TikTok following trust him.The conversation dives deep into how Prime Inc.'s lease program actually works, including the difference between a standard lease and a lease purchase, what the lease completion bonus really is and where that money comes from, and why the up-front commitment model weeds out the people who were never serious. Sutton also gives a detailed walk-through of Prime's Springfield, Missouri headquarters facility, from the cafeteria and full-size basketball court to the spa, chiropractor, in-house doctor, movie theater, and free bunk rooms, and explains why he believes every trucking company should take notes.They also cover Sutton's advice for young single drivers to stack cash and skip the apartment, how to turn a 34-hour reset into a mini vacation, why flatbed training at Prime goes well beyond the CDL, and what Sutton and his wife Sari are building toward, including a mini fleet of five trucks and eventually a super sleeper to cruise the country in style.Chapters0:00 Intro1:44 How Sutton Got Into Trucking3:51 Hot Shot Failures & Hard Lessons7:42 CDL Trouble & Building Again10:16 Advice for Young Drivers on the Road13:17 Turning 34-Hour Resets Into Vacations18:54 Prime Inc. Lease Program Explained23:41 Lease Purchase & Completion Bonus25:57 Inside Prime's Springfield Facility36:38 Why Sutton Started Making Trucking Content41:38 Prime's ACE Class & Driver Education44:52 Flatbed Training at Prime46:49 The 5-Year Plan: Mini Fleet & Super Sleeper48:47 Where to Find Sutton TransitFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow SuttonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@suttontransitYouTube: https://youtube.com/@suttontransitAbout Trucker Talk Radio:Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #driversfirst #suttontransit #primeinc #flatbedtrucking #truckinglife #owneroperator #leasepurchase #cdldriver #truckdriver #truckingtips #flatbed #truckingindustry #lifeontheroadwithsutton #truckingpodcast #springfieldmissouri #hotshot

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Ben Jones, Safety Director at Mass Trucking, joins Jon and Justin to break down what modern fleet safety actually looks like when it is built by someone who has sat behind the wheel. Ben started his career in engineering and IT, made a detour through real estate, and landed in trucking as a driver for Werner Enterprises before finding his way into the safety department at a local Detroit-area fleet. That hands-on background shapes everything about how he approaches his role today.The conversation dives deep into Ben's most ambitious project: an AI-powered predictive risk model that pulls together telematics data, HOS records, driver behavior metrics, and fuel efficiency scores to identify at-risk drivers before an incident happens. He explains how a strong correlation between poor driving scores and low MPG ratings became the foundation of the model, how he used AI to write the programming itself and help weight the data points, and why focusing attention on the top 15 percent of at-risk drivers is changing how his safety team spends its time.Ben and the hosts also get into the bigger picture of AI in trucking, covering everything from office productivity and dispatcher training tools to the longer-term question of autonomous vehicles. Ben offers a perspective that most guests haven't brought up: Tesla-style robots that can climb in and out of a cab could be the most practical near-term bridge between human drivers and full autonomy. He also makes a strong case for outward-facing cameras as a driver protection tool, sharing a real example where video footage shut down a fraudulent lawsuit before it ever gained traction.The episode closes with a discussion on freight fraud, driver retention, the value of putting office staff in a truck for a day, and how Mass Trucking's in-house CDL school is trying to fix what traditional truck driving schools leave out. If you run a fleet, manage safety, or are thinking about a career in trucking, this episode is packed with practical insight from someone who has worked every angle of the industry.Chapters0:00 Intro0:58 Ben's Background: Engineering to Trucking2:39 Why Ben Left Driving for Safety3:03 How Trucking Has Changed Over 20 Years4:39 The Accident That Shaped Ben's Purpose5:04 Reefer Safety and Maintenance6:02 AI Predictive Risk Model Explained9:01 How the Model Was Built13:44 AI in the Trucking Office20:09 AI Behind the Wheel: The Future of Autonomous Trucks24:43 Cameras as a Driver Protection Tool28:24 ELDs, Telematics, and HOS Strategy33:50 Driver Retention and Relationships37:24 Freight Fraud and Identity Verification44:02 Bringing Drivers Closer to the Table45:25 Where AI Takes Safety Long Term49:33 Mass Trucking and CDL School51:39 Sponsor Shoutouts and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Ben JonesWebsite: https://masttruckinginc.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-jones-23252913/Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #truckingsafety #aiintrucking #predictivesafety #fleetmanagement #driverretention #trucking #truckingpodcast #owneroperator #cdldriver #telematics #autonomoustrucks #freightfraud #truckdriver #logisticspodcast #masstrucking #truckinglife

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, John Esparza, President and CEO of the Texas Trucking Association, joins Justin to break down what it actually means to advocate for the entire trucking ecosystem, not just one corner of it. With nearly two decades leading one of the most influential trucking organizations in North America, John brings a rare perspective shaped by state government, three generations of trucking in his own family, and daily work at the intersection of policy, safety, and freight.John walks through the seven-area policy framework behind TruckingResurgence.com, covering CDL integrity, non-domiciled CDL reform, English language proficiency, cross-border workforce accountability, electronic log integrity, and combating freight fraud. He explains how the document came together across state association executives, how it is already generating wins at both the state and federal level, and why the goal is always to help the industry police itself before government steps in with more rules.The conversation covers a wide range of real-world issues: the Supreme Court ruling and what it means for broker liability, why the truck parking crisis requires a shift toward paid and pre-booked spaces, how Texas handles over 1,250 miles of US-Mexico border and what that means for freight and driver welfare, and why the narrative around trucking is too often defined by its worst actors instead of its best. John also pushes back on the idea that the industry simply needs more regulations, arguing that enforcing existing rules more effectively would solve more problems than writing new ones.Closing out the episode, John shares his honest take on autonomous trucking, why he believes there is room for both technology and qualified human drivers in the future, and why Texas continues to be the proving ground for what comes next. He also connects it all back to something personal: a great-grandfather who used trucking to keep a small West Texas community alive during the Depression, and what that legacy still means today.Chapters0:00 Intro0:05 Sponsor: Ready App1:10 Introducing John Esparza2:09 The Texas Trucking Association4:51 Why Trucking Needs a Seat at Every Table6:35 How the Association Advocates12:09 Why Americans Don't Understand Trucking13:44 One in Every 14 Jobs in Texas16:00 John's Background in Government16:15 A Family Built on Trucking21:42 Riding the Industry Roller Coaster22:59 Fraud, CDL Integrity & Trucking Resurgence28:13 Social Media, Accidents & Public Perception32:45 Driver Qualification & Broker Liability36:16 Highway Safety & Texas Infrastructure37:29 Truck Parking Crisis43:17 Should Drivers Pay for Parking?48:11 The Future: Autonomy & Driver Demand52:46 How to Find John & the TTAFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow John EsparzaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-esparza-62ab668Website: https://www.texastrucking.comwebsite_resurgence: https://truckingresurgence.comPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #truckingpodcast #texastrucking #texastruckingassociation #johnesparza #truckingsafety #freightfraud #cdldriver #truckparking #autonomoustrucking #truckingpolicy #freightindustry #supplychain #truckingresurgence #owneroperator #readyapp

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Michael, Chief Commercial Officer at Highway, joins Justin for a deep dive into one of the most pressing challenges facing the trucking industry today: freight fraud. From double brokering and chameleon carriers to cargo theft and identity theft, Michael breaks down how fraud evolved from a paperwork problem into an international criminal enterprise, and what Highway is doing to bring trust back to carrier-broker relationships.Michael traces his path from a commission-based sales job at Bear Transportation over 20 years ago to leading Highway's commercial organization, explaining how years of watching technology vendors fail him inside freight brokerages pushed him toward a product that actually solved the root cause. He walks through how Highway works for both brokers and carriers: verifying equipment through ELD connections, protecting carrier identities from impersonation, and surfacing trusted carriers to the brokers who need them most.The conversation also digs into the Supreme Court's 9-0 ruling on freight broker preemption and what it really means for brokers caught between vicarious liability and negligent hiring claims. Michael is blunt: the lawyers who told brokers for 40 years to stick their heads in the sand got smoked, and now the industry has to define what reasonable care actually looks like. He also pushes back on using inspection data as a vetting tool, calling it antiquated in a world where telematics can do the job better and faster.Beyond fraud, Michael shares a candid vision for where freight is headed: growing up. He argues the industry needs to do what banking did after its biggest crises, building secure digital infrastructure where carriers, brokers, factoring companies, insurance agents, and telematics providers all play by the same rules. He closes with a challenge to carriers and owner-operators: act like the professionals you are, build a real business presence, and stop letting bad actors suppress your wages.Chapters0:00 Intro0:05 Welcome and Episode Overview1:08 College Football Banter3:09 Michael Caney's Background in Trucking4:55 How Michael Caney Joined Highway7:54 What Highway Does for Carriers10:15 Highway Explained for New Truckers12:24 The Rise of Double Brokering14:42 Chameleon Carriers and Cargo Theft17:02 Supreme Court Ruling Breakdown20:37 Highway's Response to the Ruling23:06 Driver Verification and ReadyApp29:44 Stop Using Inspection Data for Vetting31:50 Professionalism and Standing Out35:50 The Real Wage Problem in Trucking41:19 AI and the Future of Freight44:25 Freight Growing Up47:49 Why Carriers and Brokers Need Highway49:05 Closing ThoughtsFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow MichaelX: https://x.com/MichaelCaneyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcaney/Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #freightfraud #doublebrokering #carrierverification #truckingpodcast #freightbroker #owneroperator #truckinglife #supplychain #logistics #cargotheft #highway #truckingtech #cdldriver #freightindustry #truckingnews #smallcarrier

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Ben Greenberg, president and CEO of the North Carolina Trucking Association, joins Justin to break down some of the most pressing legal, regulatory, and operational challenges facing the trucking industry today.Ben shares how he went from a general litigation attorney in Asheville to becoming one of the most active voices in trucking advocacy, and why he believes the industry is consistently getting outworked by plaintiff's lawyers. He explains the concept of social inflation in jury verdicts, why he supports the Fair Trucking Act to move more cases into federal court, and what it will actually take to bring insurance costs down for carriers who are doing everything right.The conversation also covers freight fraud and driver verification, including why brokers face growing liability in the wake of recent Supreme Court decisions and how tools like digital driver profiles could help close the gap. Ben and Justin also dig into truck parking as a dignity issue, the data showing women drivers are statistically safer, and what the North Carolina Trucking Association does year-round to recognize top drivers and technicians through events like their Truck Driving Championship and Top Tech Challenge.On the future of trucking, Ben offers a grounded take on autonomous vehicles and AI, arguing that wide-scale adoption is still years away and that infrastructure, societal acceptance, and operational complexity will slow the transition far more than most headlines suggest. For carriers, owner-operators, or anyone paying attention to where this industry is headed, this is a conversation worth your time.Chapters0:00 Intro0:05 Sponsor: Ready App1:41 Ben's Background in Trucking Law6:48 The Lawyer Problem in Trucking Cases11:19 Plaintiff Lawyer Billboards & Perception12:15 About the North Carolina Trucking Association13:43 Member Advocacy and Lawmaker Relationships17:01 Rising Insurance Costs in Trucking19:05 The Fair Trucking Act Explained24:44 Fraud, Double Brokering & Driver Verification27:03 Supreme Court Ruling and Broker Liability29:10 Recognizing Top Drivers and Driver Scorecards34:08 Women in Trucking37:18 Truck Parking as a Dignity Issue42:40 Truck Driving Championships and Top Tech Challenge45:44 AI and Autonomous Trucks: 3 to 5 Years Out49:16 How to Connect with NCTA50:01 Closing ThoughtsFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Ben GreenbergLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bensgreenbergWebsite: https://nctrucking.comAbout Trucker Talk Radio:Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #truckingadvocacy #truckinginsurance #freightfraud #truckingindustry #truckdriver #cdldriver #owneroperator #truckparking #fairtruckingact #womenintrucking #truckingsafety #freightmarket #northcarolina #autonomoustrucks #logistics #supplychain

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Mark Walker, CEO of Transland, joins Jon and Justin to share what 44 years of family-owned trucking actually looks like from the inside. Based in Springfield, Missouri, right on the historic Route 66 corridor, Transland started in 1982 with one truck, three people, and an office in a tourist court across from a Zenith Electronics plant. Today, the company runs 180 trucks and employs 220 people, and has been named one of the Best Fleets to Drive For for five consecutive years.Mark breaks down the culture that made it possible: core values rooted in honesty, integrity, and open-door leadership, where drivers can walk in, sit down, and talk to anyone from the fleet manager to the CEO. He explains how hiring with intention, looking for humble, hungry, and smart candidates rather than just filling seats, keeps turnover low and trust high. He also pushes back on the idea that paying the highest rate is the same as being the best employer, and explains why drivers who chase the big dollar often end up worse off.The conversation also covers driver safety and accountability in today's environment, the importance of enforcing existing laws rather than creating new ones, and what the industry needs to do to attract and retain the highest caliber drivers. Mark shares how his fleet managers are trained to balance empathy with accountability, and why that relationship between driver and fleet manager is the most important one in any trucking company.Mark also discusses succession planning, the Missouri Trucking Leadership Forum he helps facilitate, and what the next 10 to 15 years look like for Transland as the next generation steps in. If you run a fleet, manage drivers, or are looking for a company that actually does what it says, this conversation is worth your full attention.Chapters0:00 Intro0:48 Mark's Background in Trucking1:48 How Transland Was Founded3:34 Best Fleets to Drive For Award4:25 Building a Driver-First Culture9:19 Hiring the Right Drivers13:00 Non-Domicile CDL Drivers & Safety17:28 Drivers Chasing Higher Pay20:20 Succession Planning & Next Generation24:24 Fleet Managers & Driver Relationships28:06 Missouri Trucking Leadership Forum30:17 How to Find Transland31:25 Sponsor Shoutouts & CloseFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Mark WalkerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-walker-91166a143/Website: https://drivetransland.comPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #truckingpodcast #truckdriver #fleetmanagement #driverculture #owneroperator #truckinglife #truckingleadership #transland #bestfleetstodrivefor #route66 #truckingsafety #familybusiness #cdldriver #freightindustry #truckingindustry

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Latoya Wilson, founder of Big Rig Nation Network, joins Justin to break down one of trucking's most persistent pressure points: recruiting, onboarding, and preparing drivers for the reality of the industry. With a background in sales and customer service, Latoya entered driver recruiting around 2018 with no prior logistics experience and has spent years navigating every major market shift, from the 2020 freight boom to the 2022 correction and the ongoing fallout from the 1099 carrier collapse in markets like Chicago.Latoya explains why she shifted her focus toward new CDL drivers: experienced drivers with damaged work histories needed time to clean up their records, while fresh graduates were entering the industry completely unprepared for what comes after school. She shares how CDL training programs focus on certification, not career readiness, and why she built Big Rig Nation Network around filling that gap by providing drivers with a real strategic foundation before they ever take their first load.The conversation also covers what carriers could do better to reduce turnover, why third-party recruiting can actually benefit drivers when done right, and the growing need for verified driver identity in a space that has long operated in the gray. Latoya and Justin dig into the non-domicile CDL issue, driver verification gaps, and why tools like a digital driver passport could help qualified American drivers stand out in an increasingly crowded field.Latoya wraps with direct advice for drivers at two critical stages: those thinking about getting their CDL-A, and those who just graduated. Her message is clear: trucking is not just a job, it is a top-tier certification that demands flexibility, commitment, and the right mindset from day one. Big Rig Nation Network is currently undergoing a full rebrand launching June 1st, but drivers, carriers, and CDL schools can reach Latoya now at bigrignation.org or by calling or texting 757-944-2211.Chapters0:00 Intro0:53 Latoya's Background in Recruiting2:51 Learning the Industry from Scratch3:48 The 2020 Freight Boom and Aftermath5:48 Building Big Rig Nation Network6:44 How Recruiting Has Changed9:00 The Recruiter and Carrier Disconnect11:57 Shifting Focus to New CDL Drivers14:49 What Carriers Could Do Better17:46 The Recruiter's Role and Bad Reputation23:49 Driver Verification and Non-Domicile CDLs29:44 Driver Passport and Standing Out31:07 Big Rig Nation Network Relaunch34:07 Advice for New CDL Drivers37:09 Coaching Drivers Through the First 90 Days39:46 How to Reach Latoya Wilson42:00 Sponsor Shoutouts and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Latoya WilsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latoya-wilson-a0698269/Website: https://www.bigrignation.orgphone: 757-944-2211About Trucker Talk Radio:Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #cdldrivers #driverrecruiting #truckinglife #owneroperator #truckingpodcast #bigrignationnetwork #newcdldriver #freightindustry #truckdriver #truckingbusiness #driveradvocacy #cdla #logistics #supplychaintalk #keepontruckin

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Justin Bright, founder of Brighter Logistics, joins host Justin Holden for a wide-ranging conversation about what it really takes to build a freight brokerage from the ground up. Justin came to logistics almost by accident, earning an entrepreneurship degree from Central Michigan University, spending time as a professional golfer, cutting his teeth at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and then landing at Echo Global in 2008 when the job market collapsed. Seventeen years later, he runs one of Global Trans's top agent operations and ships around 5,000 LTL loads per month alongside a growing truckload book of business.The conversation goes deep on what separates Brighter Logistics from the pack: a personal-touch culture built around 25 outbound calls per day, 15-minute response guarantees, birthday cookies for customers, and daily team meetings. Justin breaks down the agent model and why it allows smaller brokerages to compete without carrying the financial and liability risk of running their own MC authority. He also walks through the realities of LTL pricing, including the bump rule, dimensionalizers, excessive-length surcharges, and how a single pallet shift in transit can turn into an $864 rebuild.Justin and the hosts also tackle the bigger picture: driver verification, freight theft, the fragmented nature of the industry, and what the ongoing Supreme Court case around broker liability could mean for small agencies across the country. Justin is candid that if brokers are held to the same standard as carriers, many smaller operations will not survive, and the freight world could consolidate rapidly around the largest players.The episode closes with a look at the future of AI in logistics, the very real need to recruit younger drivers into the profession, and why Justin is bringing his son into the family business after years of never missing a game. It is an honest, experience-backed conversation about building something worth keeping.Chapters0:00 Intro0:34 Meet Justin Bright1:20 From Golf to Logistics2:55 College vs. Entrepreneurship5:14 Trade Schools and the Future7:43 Why Justin Started Brighter Logistics9:53 Relationships and the Broker Value Proposition14:35 Driver Verification and Ready App17:44 Freight Theft and the LTL Advantage19:53 Recruiting the Next Generation of Drivers22:08 Owner-Operators and the American Dream26:46 LTL Pricing, Classes, and the Bump Rule33:35 LTL Guarantees and Redelivery Fees35:07 Excessive Length Surcharges39:06 Truckload: Van, Flatbed, and Reefer42:37 Building and Leading a Freight Team46:27 Family, Freedom, and the Business50:45 The Future of Logistics and AI57:12 How to Reach Brighter Logistics57:53 Show Sponsors and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Justin BrightWebsite: https://brighterlogistics.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrighterLogistics/X: https://x.com/BrighterLogphone: 586-723-1532Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #freight #logistics #ltlshipping #freightbrokerage #owneroperator #truckingpodcast #freightmarket #supplychain #truckdriver #brighterlogistics #freightbroker #truckingbusiness #cdl #entrepreneurship #agilogistics

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Aleks Bates, co-founder of Carrier Defender and key figure at PGT Northside, joins Jon and Justin for a raw, unfiltered conversation about life in trucking from the ground up. Born in Toronto, Aleks took a trip to Serbia, saw a different way of living on day two, quit his job, and never looked back. He built dispatch offices overseas, spent years on the carrier side learning the business inside and out, and eventually crossed over into brokerage, joining the flatbed-heavy PGT Northside operation that moves roughly 1,200 loads a day.Aleks breaks down what makes flatbed trucking a different animal entirely, from the physical demands on drivers to the seasonal swings and the specialized knowledge required for permitting and load securement. He shares a firsthand story of a driver who wanted to watch a YouTube video before strapping down a load, and the conversation gets serious fast about the real consequences of overconfidence and under-regulation in open deck freight.The episode goes deep on Carrier Defender, the company Aleks co-founded with Michigan attorney Dan Arteve to protect carriers from false and emotionally-driven reporting on platforms like Freight Guard. He explains how a single bad report from a broker can cripple a 90-truck operation over one driver's mistake, and why he believes brokerages need more accountability in who gets to post public complaints. The discussion also covers the Supreme Court ruling holding freight brokers liable for negligent carrier hiring, the growing sophistication of freight fraud, and why the industry's biggest problem is that nobody works together or shares data across platforms.Aleks also pulls back the curtain on how he built a 13,000-follower LinkedIn following starting with Friday afternoon memes about brokers, and how his media presence through Asset Based and Ilumino Lense grew from a simple desire to give carriers a voice in a brokerage-dominated conversation.Chapters0:00 Intro1:18 From Toronto to Serbia3:23 Work Culture: North America vs. Serbia5:09 AI, Efficiency & Remote Work6:19 Aleks' Trucking Career Path7:41 Building a LinkedIn Following9:01 PGT Northside & Flatbed Operations10:27 What Makes Flatbed Trucking Different11:11 Broker Training & Permit Knowledge Gaps13:51 Driver Recruiting for Flatbed16:07 Carrier Defender Explained19:17 Freight Fraud & Industry Accountability20:18 Advanced Scams & Shipper Verification22:42 Supreme Court Ruling on Broker Liability26:20 Why the Industry Won't Work Together29:54 Closing Plugs & Sponsor ShoutoutsFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Aleks BatesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleks-bates-738a82225/Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #aleksbates #carrierdefender #pgttrucking #flatbedtrucking #freightfraud #truckingpodcast #owneroperator #freightbroker #truckinglife #cdldrivers #supplychain #logistics #truckdriver #freightindustry #truckingnews #carrierrights

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Tracy Davis, president of ACME Transportation and ACME Logistics, joins Jon and Justin for a wide-ranging conversation about a career that spans Amtrak, railroad ownership, and two decades running one of Chicago's most established intermodal trucking operations. Tracy traces his path from a radio career gone sideways to driving a delivery truck, then leveraging grad school at the University of Maryland into a job at Amtrak's Union Station offices, eventually helping form Iowa Pacific Holdings before landing in the intermodal trucking world.Tracy pulls back the curtain on what it actually looked like when he bought ACME Transportation in 2007: five tractors, a dozen trailers, one computer, no running water in the warehouse, and a pegboard on the wall serving as the TMS system. He walks through how he built operational structure on spreadsheets and Google Sheets while keeping costs lean through two major freight downturns, and why he believes AI is on the verge of making most TMS platforms obsolete for small and mid-sized carriers.The conversation covers the Supreme Court's 9-0 broker liability ruling and what it means for shippers, brokers, and small carriers who simply cannot absorb a multimillion-dollar verdict. Tracy also digs into the chassis shortage problem, how Chicago's intermodal complexity is unlike anywhere else in the country, and why he believes the U.S. should look at Europe's grounded container model. He makes a compelling case for intermodal as the most efficient use of both rail and road, even as he acknowledges the railroads' tendency to struggle with surge capacity.To close out, Tracy shares advice for younger professionals entering the industry: try every mode, lean into technology integration, and get off LinkedIn long enough to actually meet people. He also highlights the Traffic Club of Chicago's scholarship program, available at traffic-club.org, and opens the door to anyone looking to move intermodal freight in the Chicago region or join the ACME team as a local driver who is home every night.Chapters0:00 Intro1:24 How Tracy Got Into Transportation2:40 Amtrak Running Freight on Passenger Trains3:20 Forming Iowa Pacific Holdings5:18 Rail vs. Trucking: Different Worlds?5:47 Tracy's Broad Industry View7:16 ACME Transportation's 75-Year Story9:38 TMS Systems and Technology Decisions13:49 AI and the Future of TMS18:07 ACME's Fleet and Brokerage Operations20:09 Supreme Court Broker Liability Ruling24:20 Rail and Intermodal's Future Role27:40 Chassis Shortage and Intermodal Challenges32:01 Advice for Young Logistics Professionals34:07 Networking and the Traffic Club of Chicago36:48 Scholarships, ACME Services, and Hiring38:47 Sponsor Mentions and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Tracy DavisWebsite: https://acmetran.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-d-5477b19/Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #intermodal #truckingpodcast #freightindustry #raillogistics #supplychain #acmetransportation #truckingnews #owneroperator #brokerliability #freightmarket #truckinglife #logistics #cdldrivers #truckingindustry #chicagotrucking #tracydavis

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Francisco Lopez Roualdes, Co-founder and CEO of Double Nickel, joins Jon and Justin to break down what is actually broken in truck driver recruiting and how his Brooklyn-based startup is building something better.Francisco comes from an unlikely background for trucking: 8 years at Boston Consulting Group, a lending director role at Klip in Latin America, and an MBA from Columbia Business School. But after watching labor imbalances deepen across the economy during COVID, he and co-founder Elif Kenli walked away from consulting and pointed their full attention at one of the most overlooked corners of logistics: the ATS. Today, Double Nickel serves fleets like Maverick Transportation, Nussbaum, Custom Transport, Universe Carrier, and Panhandle Express, all with a team of roughly 10 people.The conversation digs into the data behind Double Nickel's AI virtual recruiter, including why 50 to 60 percent of driver applicants come in overnight or on weekends when no one is available to call, and how that speed-to-lead gap is killing conversion. Francisco also walks through what switching from TenStreet actually looks like, why two-thirds of annual driver turnover happens in the first 90 days, and how freeing recruiters from admin busy work can directly improve retention.They also get into the bigger picture: autonomous trucks, AI replacing recruiters, driver verification and compliance, and what the next 12 months look like for Double Nickel as they target larger fleets and build toward conditional job offers generated in seconds. If you run a fleet or manage recruiting, this one is packed with real insight.Chapters0:00 Intro0:04 Industry Hook: Driver Shortage Stats2:40 Welcoming Francisco Lopez Roualdes3:05 ReadyApp Sponsor Read3:46 Francisco's Background and Path to Trucking7:13 What's Broken in Driver Recruiting9:59 The AI Virtual Recruiter Explained15:20 Recruiting, Retention, and Justin's 15 Years17:25 How Double Nickel Helps Retention21:03 Competing Against TenStreet25:51 Switching From TenStreet: The Process29:13 Driver Verification and Compliance Tech32:15 ReadyApp and the Driver Passport Vision37:59 Autonomous Trucks and the Future of Recruiting43:08 The Origin of the Double Nickel Name44:06 Will AI Replace Recruiters?48:52 Seed Raise and What's Next for Double Nickel50:43 Where to Find Double Nickel51:39 Sponsor Shoutouts and ClosingFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Francisco Lopez RoualdesWebsite: https://www.getdoublenickel.comemail: [email protected]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciscolopezroualdes/Fifty Nickel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/double-nickel-software/About Trucker Talk Radio:Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #truckingpodcast #truckdrivers #driverrecruiting #doublenickel #airecruiting #truckingtech #fleetmanagement #owneroperator #cdldrivers #logisticstechnology #truckingbusiness #freightindustry #driverretention #autonomoustrucks #supplychain

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Tom McLeod, founder, president, and CEO of McLeod Software, joins Jon and Justin for a wide-ranging conversation about 40 years of building the technology infrastructure that powers over 1,200 trucking and freight brokerage companies across North America. Tom traces the company's origins back to 1985, when deregulation opened the floodgates for new carriers and almost nobody was building software to help them run. With a background in classical piano and sales, he made a calculated bet on an industry big enough to sustain a growing company but niche enough to stay off the radar of IBM and Microsoft.Tom walks through how the industry has evolved from 80-megabyte hard drives and isolated green-screen terminals to fully integrated TMS platforms with 150 integration partners handling everything from order entry and freight billing to driver payroll, fuel tax, and real-time GPS visibility. He explains why integration is not optional anymore, why technology for technology's sake often creates more manual work than it eliminates, and why the companies that invest in the right tools tend to be better-managed companies across the board.The conversation dives into the recent Supreme Court ruling removing federal liability shields for freight brokers, and what it means for carrier vetting and driver verification going forward. Tom sees it as a net positive for the industry, arguing that overcapacity driven by underqualified drivers has suppressed rates for years and that raising the bar on safety standards benefits carriers, brokers, and shippers alike. He also shares what McLeod is doing with AI right now, from automating load entry and rate quoting to accelerating internal development cycles.On autonomous trucks, Tom offers a grounded take: it is coming, but slower than anyone predicted, and the disruption it creates will open new opportunities for carriers who are prepared. He predicts that by 2035, between 10 and 15 percent of miles traveled could be autonomous, and believes the transition will ultimately give drivers better lives with more regional routes and more time at home. His closing message is simple: disruption creates opportunity, and the carriers who lean into new technology will be the ones still standing.Chapters0:00 Intro1:30 Starting McLeod Software in 19853:13 What Early Trucking Software Looked Like4:44 Green Screens and Early Computers6:34 How Tom Got Into Software8:18 Supreme Court Ruling on Broker Liability11:21 How the Ruling Shapes Software Development13:49 How Technology Changed Trucking Operations15:57 Driver Verification and ReadyApp18:26 The Importance of Integration Partners21:20 Longest-Running McLeod Customers22:54 AI at McLeod Software25:31 Autonomous Trucks and the Future30:02 What Autonomy Means for Drivers32:18 What Still Motivates Tom After 40 Years33:04 Why Smaller Carriers Should Consider McLeod35:34 What McLeod Is Building Next36:50 Sponsor Messages and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Tom McLeodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcleod-8466b0https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcleodsoftware/Website: https://www.mcleodsoftware.comPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #mcleodsoftware #truckingtech #tms #freighttechnology #truckingpodcast #autonomoustrucks #ailogistics #freightbroker #owneroperator #truckinglife #supplychain #logistics #cdldriver #truckdriver #freightindustry #truckingindustry

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Glenn Moore, founder of VantEdge, joins Justin and co-host Shamaira to break down the real inefficiencies hiding inside commodity logistics and what technology can do to fix them. Glenn spent over 15 years at Plains All American and Plains Midstream Canada watching how oil and gas companies won and lost money not on the trading floor, but in logistics. That experience became the foundation for VantEdge and its flagship product, Terminal Boss, a platform originally acquired from Schneider Electric that now sits at the center of how commodity facilities track every drop of product moving in and out.Glenn walks through the specific, often-overlooked problems that compound into massive losses: rail cars shipped at less than optimal capacity, trucks sitting idle waiting to load, and scheduling systems that simply do not exist in industries that schedule everything else. He explains how Terminal Boss serves around 400 facilities, integrates with on-site metering equipment, and now includes a truck scheduling layer that reduces wait times and helps operators get more out of an aging driver workforce.The conversation also covers VantEdge's compliance product, Conformee, which uses AI to monitor regulatory changes across Canadian provinces and U.S. states, automatically flagging what changed, when it changed, and how long a company has to get back into compliance. Glenn makes the case that for oil and gas operators facing constant regulatory pressure, this kind of audit-ready documentation is less a nice-to-have and more an insurance policy for leadership.Glenn closes with an honest look at entrepreneurship: the original version of VantEdge failed, and he had to restart from scratch in early 2020. He shares what he learned, why he believed the opportunity was still real, and how the company has grown to around $5 million in revenue while targeting 60 to 80 percent growth this year. For anyone running or building a business in commodities, logistics, or energy compliance, this episode covers the operational details that rarely make it into industry conversations.Chapters0:00 Intro0:41 Glenn's Background at Plains All American2:09 Founding VantEdge and Terminal Boss5:12 Technology Gaps in Trucking and Oil & Gas5:59 Rail Car Efficiency and Truck Scheduling8:18 How VantEdge Solves Facility Inefficiencies11:26 AI and OTR Freight Scheduling Problems13:48 Driver Accountability and Dangerous Goods17:41 Conformee: Compliance Software Explained21:44 Driver Verification in Oil and Gas26:31 ReadyApp and Verified Driver Profiles28:26 Driver Compliance Inside Terminal Boss29:39 Vision: Growth, U.S. Expansion and New Industries32:36 Failing First and Rebuilding VantEdge37:25 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Glenn39:08 Sponsor Shoutouts and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Glenn MooreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennmoorecalgary/Website: https://www.vantedge.comPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #logistics #oilandgas #commoditylogistics #compliancesoftware #freighttech #supplychain #truckingpodcast #vantedge #terminalboss #owneroperator #truckdriver #entrepreneurship #logisticstech #freightindustry #cdldriver

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Justin Martin, founder of Shady Freight, joins Jon and Justin for a wide-open conversation about the fraud, dysfunction, and systemic failures hiding inside the trucking and freight industry. Justin started at Schneider National in 2007, drove DOD contractor freight for Green Valley Transportation, hauled mail for Pat Solomon and Sons and later TenRoads, and eventually landed at FreightWaves before launching Shady Freight as an independent investigative platform.Justin breaks down exactly how the trucking industry arrived at its current crisis: decades of deregulation, a manufactured driver shortage narrative, and zero barriers to entry for motor carrier ownership. He explains how chameleon carriers operate, why foreign-owned shell companies are flooding the market with manipulable ELDs, and how the FMCSA has denied every single one of the 400-plus new ELD provider applications filed since January. He also reveals what Shady Freight uncovered about military contract freight being illegally brokered out to carriers owned by individuals living overseas.The conversation also covers autonomous trucks and why the business case keeps collapsing, the role insurance companies play in shutting down bad actors, and why buying and selling MC numbers on Facebook has become an underground black market. Justin and the hosts discuss the urgent need for real-time driver verification technology, tools like GenLogs and Search Carriers, and why brokers can no longer hide behind "we just contract the carrier" as a liability shield.Justin is currently pursuing expert witness certification through the Transportation Safety Management Institute. Lawyers and legal teams handling carrier audits or freight-related cases can reach him on X at @SuperTrucker.Chapters0:00 Intro0:54 What Is Shady Freight?1:08 Justin's Background in Trucking4:46 How Shady Freight Was Born7:38 The Florida Wreck & Public Awareness9:00 Deregulation & the Fake Driver Shortage10:28 Broker Risk & Chameleon Carriers12:59 FMCSA Leadership Revolving Door14:02 Autonomous Trucks & AI Reality Check16:05 Cargo Theft & Unmanned Trucks18:30 Foreign Ownership & Zero Barriers to Entry22:50 Verification, Identity & MODIS24:45 Blockchain, Transparency & the Future27:47 Broker Liability & Driver Accountability30:04 ELD Fraud & 400 Denied Applications33:37 DOD Freight Fraud Exposed36:14 Military Base Access & Unverified Drivers39:31 GenLogs & Law Enforcement Tools42:34 What's Next for Shady Freight43:18 Sponsor Thanks & OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Justin MartinX: https://x.com/SuperTruckerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmartsupertrucker/Website: https://shadyfreight.comAbout Trucker Talk Radio:Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #trucking #freightfraud #shadyfreight #truckingpodcast #supplychain #chameleoncarriers #truckingsafety #fmcsa #owneroperator #eldmandate #freightindustry #truckdrivers #logistics #behindthewheelhouse #driververification #militaryfreight #cargoprotection

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Dani Howells, known across the industry as the Permit Girl, joins Justin to break down what it really takes to move oversized and superloads legally and safely across North America. With nearly 11 years of permitting experience and a trucking family background that stretches back to her father's days as a Continental Trucker hauling across Europe for Inner City GB, Dani brings a depth of real-world knowledge that goes far beyond paperwork.Dani walks through the full scope of what she handles: regular permits, overweight and oversize, superloads, mega moves, utility approvals, trooper requests, pilot cars, bucket trucks, route surveys, and traffic management plans. She explains why permitting is far more art than science, with 85 to 90 percent of decisions coming down to interpretation, and why the same move can sail through one week and get rejected the next depending on who picks up the phone at the permit office.The conversation digs into the accountability gap that puts drivers on the hook when permit errors occur, why Dani always pads dimensions and insists on written communication for every job, and how wrong measurements, undressed machinery, and last-minute county rejections can unravel a perfectly planned route in an instant. She also speaks candidly about the broader safety and verification problems creeping into the Canadian trucking industry, and why she refuses to work with companies that cut corners on licensing or driver qualifications.For drivers, dispatchers, brokers, and carriers working in heavy haul, this episode is a straightforward look at what permitting actually involves and why getting it right from the start saves everyone time, money, and serious headaches down the road.Chapters0:00 Intro0:46 Dani's Background in Trucking1:14 Growing Up Around Trucking3:57 Getting Into Permitting4:22 What Swamping Is6:03 Canada vs. US Permitting10:11 The Gray Area Problem15:06 What Dani Permits18:21 Cutting Out Middlemen on Superloads23:15 Advice for Drivers on Permits24:25 Padding Dimensions and Paper Trails27:00 When to Upgrade Your Permit Class31:40 Read Your Permit33:03 Driver Verification and Industry Problems34:21 What Info Permits Actually Need39:30 Accountability and Protecting Yourself41:37 Driver Passports and Bad Actors43:32 Shell Companies and Federal Regulation47:29 How to Find Dani and What She Offers48:29 Sponsor Shoutouts and ClosingFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Dani HowellsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dani-howells-09050a170/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/permitgirlltdPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #oversizedload #heavyhaul #superload #truckingpermits #permitgirl #owneroperator #truckdriver #truckinglife #freightindustry #truckingsafety #logistics #cdldriver #truckingpodcast #oversizeloads #keepontruckin

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Scott Conklin, Driver Operations and Safety Manager at Dedicated Systems Incorporated, joins Jon and Justin for a conversation about what it actually means to fight for drivers inside a system that often works against them. Scott grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, served in the Air Force, and found his way into trucking through Schneider National, where he cut his teeth on dispatch, recruiting, and managing the Georgia Pacific account before eventually moving into safety and operations at Dedicated Systems in Green Bay, Wisconsin.Scott walks through the proposal he wrote calling for a fundamental overhaul of how CSA scores work, one that would create individual driver-level scoring, separate equipment failures from driver fault, and apply a decay factor to warnings over time. The concept aligns closely with what Jon and Justin are building at Ready App, including a driver "baseball card" score that rewards safe operators and gives carriers a cleaner picture of their roster when negotiating with insurance companies. Scott also shares that his proposal reached FMCSA leadership directly and sparked real conversations at the federal level.The conversation also dives into the realities of specialized and oversized hauling at Dedicated Systems, including million-dollar equipment moves, steel beams from 9/11, and Daytona 500 signage. Scott breaks down what it takes for a van driver to cross over into flatbed work, why load securement is the most undertrained skill in the industry, and why roughly 75% of drivers who try flatbedding turn back once they feel the physical demands.Scott also opens up about his decade of work with HOOAH Wisconsin, a 501(c) organization focused on veteran mental health, community building, and practical wellness programs, including therapy access, financial education, and the Warrior Wellness Program. He stepped away from the organization in December after ten years of service.Chapters0:00 Intro1:41 Scott's Background and Career Path4:37 The CSA Score Problem6:01 Separating Driver vs. Carrier Fault7:41 The Baseball Card Driver Score Concept10:25 Balancing Safety, Compliance, and Profit12:28 Roadside Inspections: What Drivers Should Do14:28 Recovering From CSA Damage19:24 The Warning vs. Ticket Problem23:01 Specialized and Oversized Hauling25:07 How Drivers Break Into Flatbed and Specialized28:18 Training Program at Dedicated Systems30:07 Every Driver Matters31:10 HOOAH Wisconsin Veterans Program33:23 Where to Find Scott and Dedicated Systems34:16 Sponsor Mentions and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Scott ConklinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-conklin-33308661/email: [email protected]: https://dedsys.comPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #truckingpodcast #csascore #truckingsafety #driveradvocacy #flatbedtrucking #specializedhaul #owneroperator #truckdriver #freightindustry #veteransupport #readyapp #dedicatedsystems #logistics #cdldriver #scottconklin

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Stacey Grove, president of Workhorse Logistics, joins Justin to share how a microbiology degree, a chance meeting at a gym, and a leap of faith abroad led him to build a thriving freight brokerage from scratch.Stacey breaks down why he deliberately carved out a niche in import-export container freight, the segment most brokers avoid because of its complexity, and how leaning into that underserved market helped him survive COVID, outlast the dry van boom-and-bust cycle, and build a loyal customer base that keeps sending him business five years in. He also walks through the hard lessons: stolen loads, billing mistakes with NVOCCs, and why doing a little extra work on the front end saves you from chasing disaster on the back end.The conversation gets into the fraud problem hitting trucking from every angle like chameleon carriers, fake rate cons, low-quality overseas dispatchers undercutting owner-operators, and why Stacey believes the barrier to entry for bad actors is dangerously low. He makes a strong case for better vetting habits, building relationships with trusted carriers first, and treating owner-operators like the business owners they actually are.They close out looking at the future: AI, automation, shorter freight legs, and the shift away from the classic over-the-road model. Stacey's take is optimistic, the drivers who increase their value and adapt will thrive, and the opportunity in specialized, relationship-driven logistics has never been bigger.Chapters0:00 Intro1:11 Stacey's Background & Florida Roots2:49 From Verizon to Trucking4:30 Moving Abroad & Launching Workhorse Logistics6:52 The Florida Freight Market7:46 Why Import-Export Container Freight11:52 Word of Mouth Over Cold Calls13:56 Growing the Business15:42 Billing, Collections & Taking Ownership17:12 Broker Transparency & Going the Extra Mile20:16 Fraud in Trucking23:50 Vetting Carriers & Spotting Scammers26:56 Low Barrier to Entry & Bad Actors27:13 Owner-Operators as Business Owners30:58 The Future of Logistics & Automation36:34 The Changing American Trucker36:51 How to Reach Stacey38:37 Sponsor Mentions & OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Stacey GroveLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-grove-50960065/Website: https://work-horse-logistics.comemail: [email protected] by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #truckingpodcast #freightbrokerage #importexport #containertransportation #truckingfraud #owneroperator #logisticsbusiness #supplychain #freightindustry #trucking #workhorselogistics #truckinglife #cdldrivers #freightmarket #truckingnews

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Rick LaGore, co-founder and CEO of InTek Intermodal Logistics, joins Jon and Justin to break down the freight market in a way most people in the industry have never heard before. Rick came into logistics through General Motors and corporate finance, not through traditional brokerage or sales, and that background shapes everything about how he reads the market, talks to shippers, and runs his company.Rick explains the concept he calls the supply-driven freight cycle: unlike every previous cycle he has seen in 37 years, rates are climbing not because demand is surging, but because the FMCSA is aggressively pulling bad actors, fraudulent CDLs, and self-certified ELDs out of the market. That capacity reduction is already pushing rates up 25 to 40 percent, and Rick warns that when real demand finally arrives, the market will be significantly less elastic than anything the industry has experienced before.The conversation dives deep into intermodal: why it is misunderstood, what kills most intermodal programs before they ever get going, and how Rick's team uses intermodal spot rates tracked since 2010 to confirm or deny truckload market turns. He explains the 8-to-12-week lag between truckload signals and intermodal confirmation, and shares that as of mid-April 2026, that confirmation has arrived and rates continue to climb.They also cover cargo theft and freight fraud, the challenge of bringing new owner-operators into a market that shuts them out for their first year, the role AI is already playing in back-office operations, and what autonomous trucks might actually look like in practice, including why Rick sees the dray market as a natural early fit. Rick also plugs his company's educational blog and the Intermodal Podcast for shippers looking to understand the mode before committing to it.Chapters0:00 Intro0:49 Rick's Background and Career Path3:40 Finance Mindset in Freight5:14 Stress: Finance vs. Freight6:47 Work-Life Balance with 5 Kids8:51 How InTek Got Into Intermodal13:04 Why Intermodal Programs Fail15:31 Managing Containers and Accessorial Costs18:01 The Supply-Driven Freight Cycle20:48 Truckload Signals, Intermodal Confirms24:22 COVID Freight Boom and the Wall26:35 Cargo Theft and Freight Fraud30:26 Driver Verification and Accountability34:14 New Owner-Operators and Education Gap37:35 The Next 5 to 10 Years in Trucking42:07 Autonomous Trucks and the Dray Market44:39 Rick's Plug and ClosingFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Rick LaGoreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricklagore/Website: https://intechlogistics.comPodcast: The Intermodal PodcastPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #intermodal #freightmarket #truckingpodcast #logistics #supplychain #freightstrategy #truckingindustry #owneroperator #cdldrivers #cargothefit #autonomoustrucks #freightcycles #ricklagore #intekintermodal #truckload #freightbroker

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Brett Quigley, president of Quigley Transportation Management Solutions, joins Jon and Justin to break down what it really takes to stay compliant as a motor carrier and why so many small and mid-sized fleets are one audit away from serious trouble.With over 40 years in transportation, Brett has managed three of the nation's top 100 private commercial fleets, navigated DOT audits across multiple industries, and testified in court cases involving trucking litigation. He built his consulting company during COVID after recognizing a major gap: smaller carriers who couldn't afford full-time compliance expertise but desperately needed it. Now he helps companies get ahead of problems before they turn into fines, failed audits, or nuclear verdicts.Brett walks through exactly what a DOT audit looks like from the inside, including new entrant audits, focused audits, and full compliance reviews. He explains the most common issues he finds in driver qualification files, the drug and alcohol testing gaps that catch carriers off guard, and why no file he has ever reviewed has been 100% compliant. He also shares his honest take on the Clearinghouse, why outsourced employment verification responses are a problem, and what carriers should do right now if they have never had their program reviewed.The conversation also covers autonomous trucking, where the compliance burden is headed over the next five years, and why Brett believes the liability risk of fully driverless trucks may be too large for manufacturers to absorb. If you are running a small fleet, operating as an owner-operator, or managing compliance for a growing carrier, this episode is packed with practical guidance that could save you significant time, money, and legal exposure.Chapters0:00 Intro0:05 Meet Brett Quigley1:12 40 Years in Transportation4:09 Quigley TMS: What They Do5:41 Talking to Small Carriers About Compliance7:26 What to Bring to a Compliance Review8:41 Where Companies Get Into Trouble10:12 Driver Qualification File Breakdown12:08 The Clearinghouse and Driver Verification14:35 Inside a DOT Audit18:18 What Happens When You Fail an Audit20:17 Autonomous Trucks and Compliance23:31 Compliance Burden: The Next 5 Years25:22 Due Diligence and Final Advice25:40 How to Reach Brett Quigley26:05 Sponsor Shoutouts and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Brett QuigleyWebsite: https://www.quigley-tms.comphone: 281-520-6699About Trucker Talk Radio:Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #truckingcompliance #dotaudit #trucking #truckingpodcast #owneroperator #truckdriver #cdl #freightindustry #truckingindustry #fleetmanagement #logistics #supplychainmanagement #driverqualification #truckingnews #smallfleet #clearinghouse

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Sean Dehan, VP of Corporate Strategy and Corporate Development at Truckstop.com, joins Jon and Justin to pull back the curtain on what the number one load board in the country is actually doing under the hood. From its founding in 1995 as the very first internet load board, to navigating the post-COVID freight market collapse, Sean breaks down the real headwinds Truckstop has faced and how the company has responded.The conversation dives deep into freight fraud, one of the most urgent threats facing the industry today. Sean explains how Truckstop has blocked more than 100,000 fraudulent organizations from its platform, why the company removed drag-and-drop Excel load posting to cut off a major fraud vector, and how sold MCs with unreported ownership changes are enabling bad actors to trade on clean carrier reputations for up to a year. He also explains why Truckstop is intentionally tight-lipped about some of its specific fraud-fighting methods, because the criminals are listening too.From there, the discussion shifts to AI and what it actually means for carriers on the road. Sean lays out his vision for a hyper-personalized AI dispatcher in every trucker's pocket, one that knows your equipment, your endorsements, your preferred lanes, and your weekly revenue goals. He also covers Truckstop's WiseLoad acquisition and its push into heavy haul and oversized freight, a sector he sees as ripe for more specialized tooling.To close, Sean shares his take on autonomous trucks: bullish on the technology overall, but clear that commodity lanes like dry van point-to-point runs face the most disruption, while open deck, heavy haul, and specialized freight are far more defensible. His advice to carriers: differentiate now, before the market forces your hand.Chapters0:00 Intro1:16 Sean's Background and Path to Truckstop4:05 The Post-COVID Freight Market Collapse5:34 What Truckstop Really Does Under the Hood6:01 Fighting Freight Fraud at Scale9:10 Identity Theft and Carrier Fraud10:56 Staying Ahead of Criminals14:55 Sold MCs and the Apathy Problem19:10 AI and the Future of Carrier Dispatching27:59 Will AI Negotiate Freight Deals?30:03 WiseLoad Acquisition and Heavy Haul Growth35:09 Autonomous Trucks: Real Talk39:14 Sponsor Shoutouts and OutroFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Sean DehanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dehansean/https://www.linkedin.com/company/truckstop/https://truckstop.com/about/leaders/sean-dehan/Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #truckstop #freightfraud #loadboard #truckingnews #aiintrucking #owneroperator #freighttech #autonomoustrucks #heavyhaul #truckingpodcast #cdldriver #freightmarket #logistics #truckinglife #doublebrokering #supplychain

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Kelly Anderson, founder of the Kelly Anderson Group, joins Jon and Justin for one of the most wide-ranging conversations the show has had. A US Coast Guard veteran, CDL holder, professional driver, driver trainer, recruiter, and safety manager over a 1,700-truck fleet, Kelly has lived every layer of the trucking industry since launching his consulting and training organization on January 1st, 1998, a date he set as a goal four years earlier and hit exactly on schedule.Kelly breaks down why driver retention remains one of trucking's most persistent unsolved problems, and the answer isn't complicated: drivers aren't treated like people. He shares stories from his Undercover Trucker program, where he applies as a real driver and goes through orientation incognito, and what he consistently finds at companies with high turnover. From the fleet manager call the Thursday before orientation to strategic touchpoints that build genuine commitment, he lays out a practical playbook for how companies can stop losing good drivers before they even get behind the wheel.The conversation also covers goal setting and life skills with the same trip-planning logic drivers use every day, the critical connection between safety and recruiting departments that most companies treat as adversaries, and how to recognize and reward driver performance in ways that actually change culture. Kelly references books like First Break All the Rules, It's Your Ship, How to Win Friends and Influence People, and 4 Disciplines of Execution as tools that shaped his career and that he recommends to anyone serious about growth.The episode closes with a three-part look at the future: what concerns Kelly most about the next decade, where AI and automation are heading in trucking, and why no technology will ever replace the human relationships that make drivers walk through fire for their fleet manager. If you have windshield time, this one is worth every mile.Chapters0:00 Intro1:19 Kelly's Background and Coast Guard Days3:33 Driver Finisher and CFI Career5:58 Goal Setting and Trip Planning for Life9:13 Starting the Kelly Anderson Group11:06 Attitude, Positivity, and Success14:27 Studying in Your Field16:04 Driver Retention and the Real Problem17:49 The Undercover Trucker Program20:47 What Good Onboarding Actually Looks Like24:57 Presentation Skills and Leadership Books29:52 Talent vs. Experience on the Road34:13 Safety and Recruiting as One Team40:12 Virtual Orientation and Strategic Touchpoints43:05 Safety Culture and Driver Recognition47:00 ReadyApp and Professionalizing Hiring48:06 Recruiter Training and the Sales Conversation55:36 Driver Recognition Programs57:45 Future of Trucking: AI, Automation, and Drivers1:02:08 Will There Be Drivers in 10 Years?1:06:53 Studying Your Field Every Day1:10:11 How to Connect with Kelly Anderson1:10:54 Sponsor Shoutouts and CloseTrucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioFollow Kelly AndersonWebsite: https://kellyandersongroup.comemail: [email protected] by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #truckdriver #driverretention #truckingpodcast #kellyandersongroup #truckinglife #cdldriver #owneroperator #truckingsafety #freightindustry #truckingbusiness #driverrecruiting #logistics #leadership #truckingtraining #keepontruckinFollow

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Russ Felker, CTO at MegaCorp Logistics and a 30-year veteran of freight technology, joins Jon and Justin to break down where the trucking industry actually stands with AI, automation, and the technology gaps that have gone unaddressed for decades.Russ traces his path from financial services and hair color manufacturing into logistics, eventually landing the CTO role at Global Trans after being asked to help find someone else for the job. He explains why trucking is not necessarily behind other industries from a pure technology standpoint, but rather lacks a forcing function to change. He argues that phone and email remain the backbone of global supply chain communication and that most TMS platforms are little more than digital notepads built on top of the same asynchronous communication habits the industry has always had.The conversation digs into AI's real role in logistics today: what it can automate, where it falls short, and why replacing people entirely is a recipe for disaster when systems go down. Russ makes the case for pushing relevant information to drivers and carriers rather than forcing them to pull from fragmented load boards, and he addresses the fraud problem head-on, explaining why relationships remain the strongest defense against chameleon carriers and strategic cargo theft.On autonomous trucks, Russ offers a grounded take: they are coming, but drivers will transition into a human-on-the-loop role, managing and overseeing autonomous systems rather than disappearing entirely. He draws a parallel to the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory story, where the worker who lost his job to a robot became the person who fixed the robot. The jobs will change, but the people will still be needed.Chapters0:00 Welcome & Guest Introduction1:21 Sponsor Shoutouts2:48 Russ Felker's Background5:11 How Logistics Tech Has Evolved7:23 Is Trucking Behind Other Industries?11:49 Where AI in Freight Stands Today14:52 Human Connection vs. AI in Sales16:01 Fraud and AI-Powered Bad Actors19:01 Fragmentation and a Centralized System26:49 Broker Liability and Driver Verification28:22 Driver Scorecards and FreightGuard33:03 Relationships Over Load Boards34:46 Cargo Theft and Fraud Deep Dive44:22 Autonomous Trucks: Realistic Timeline46:25 Human on the Loop Explained50:40 MegaCorp and Autonomous Vehicles52:51 MegaCorp Plug and ClosingFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Russ FelkerLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/russfelkerPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #logistics #freighttechnology #artificialintelligence #autonomoustrucks #freightfraud #supplychain #3pl #owneroperator #truckdriver #freightbroker #megacorplogistics #truckingpodcast #cdl #freightmarket #truckingindustryFollow

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Julie Van de Kamp, Chief Marketing and Operations Officer at Sonar, joins Jon and Justin to break down what freight intelligence actually looks like in practice, and why the data behind $125 billion in freight is changing how every level of the industry makes decisions.Julie shares how she got into trucking almost by accident, grew up around the industry, and spent nearly two decades at US Xpress moving through pricing, brokerage, customer experience, sales, and ultimately president of Dedicated, where she was responsible for roughly 3,000 drivers and trucks. She brings that operational depth to her current role at Sonar, where she translates complex freight data into tools that shippers, carriers, 3PLs, and financial institutions can actually use.The conversation covers a lot of ground: how AI tools like Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini are reshaping daily workflows in trucking, why companies that ignore AI are taking a real long-term risk, and how freight pricing is shifting from gut instinct to algorithm-driven decisions. Julie also weighs in on freight fraud, the CH Robinson broker liability case at the Supreme Court, driver verification, and why the industry's fragmentation is holding everyone back on safety and security.Julie closes with a candid take on building a career in a male-dominated industry, the myth of work-life balance, and her outlook on the freight market, including why she believes we are entering a freight renaissance and have not yet hit the peak of the tightening cycle.Chapters0:00 Intro0:55 Julie's Path Into Trucking2:51 What Freight Pricing Actually Means3:31 From Brokerage to Dedicated President4:53 What Sonar Does and Who Uses It7:01 How Data Is Changing Industry Decisions8:44 Honest Advice on Starting With AI9:19 Claude vs ChatGPT vs Gemini11:30 Risk of Avoiding AI Completely12:15 Data vs Relationships in Freight Pricing13:51 Freight Fraud and the Need to Collaborate15:46 CH Robinson Case and Broker Liability16:37 Driver Verification and Industry Fragmentation19:57 Equipment Safety and CDL Crackdown21:08 Women in Trucking and Career Advice26:05 The Future of Freight and Brick and Mortar28:35 Where to Find Julie and Sonar29:11 Sponsor Mentions and CloseFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioFollow Julie Van de KampLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-van-de-kampemail: [email protected]: https://www.gosonar.com#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #freightintelligence #sonar #truckingpodcast #aiintrucking #freightdata #truckingindustry #logistics #supplychain #freightmarket #owneroperator #truckdriver #freighttech #womenintrucking #freightrates #cdl #truckingFollowPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Nick Isabella, Founder and CEO of Trusted Cartage Solutions, joins Justin and co-host Shamaira to share how he built a profitable, regional asset-based carrier in the Southeast from the ground up, starting with no CDL, one straight truck, and a hustle mentality forged through years of corporate work, professional basketball coaching, and life on the open road.Nick's path into trucking is anything but ordinary. After getting his first taste of logistics at XPO during its early days, he spent six years away from the industry coaching elite youth basketball players including NBA-bound talents like Aaron Neesmith and Josiah James, before getting laid off during the COVID shutdown in 2020. With capital to deploy and a willingness to outwork anyone, he bought his first truck, earned his stripes driving 83,000 miles across nearly every state, and slowly built what is now a 6-truck, 7-trailer dry van and flatbed operation running exclusively in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.The conversation digs into what sets Trusted Cartage Solutions apart: a team-first culture built around core values of excellence, dedication, and consistency, a hiring philosophy that filters out "me, me, me" drivers before the first call ends, and a personal touch that includes sending every new hire a Google Form to remember birthdays and anniversaries. Nick also breaks down the financial discipline that carried him through one of the toughest freight markets in modern history, including lessons on scaling profitably, avoiding shiny object syndrome, and reverse-engineering a business toward a $3 million EBITDA exit goal.Whether you are a driver looking for a home, an owner-operator considering your next move, or an entrepreneur thinking about launching a trucking company, this episode is packed with hard-earned insight on building something real in a tough industry.Chapters0:00 Intro0:51 Nick's Background & Early Career1:17 XPO Logistics & First Industry Lessons4:43 COVID Shutdown & Buying First Truck10:09 Scaling to 6 Trucks Profitably13:09 Surviving Tough Markets16:58 Driver Culture & Hiring Philosophy23:38 Financial Education for Drivers25:02 Staying Focused on the Business26:53 Regional Operations & Freight Types34:59 Advice for Aspiring Trucking Owners38:08 Basketball Talk: Steph Curry & the NBA40:09 Closing & Sponsor ShoutoutsFollow Us!X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioIG: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioFollow Nick IsabelleLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nick-isabelleWebsite: https://www.trustedcartagesolutions.comYouTube: https://youtube.com/@Trusted Cartage Solutions#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #trucking #truckingpodcast #owneroperator #truckingbusiness #truckdriver #freightindustry #truckingindustry #smallbusiness #truckinggrowth #dryvan #flatbed #southeastfreight #truckinglife #logistics #supplychain #nickisabella

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Shamaira Gonzalez, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Ready App, joins Jon and Justin to tackle one of the most overlooked issues in trucking: driver health.Shamaira grew up between Milwaukee and Puerto Rico with a bodybuilder father and a truck driver stepfather. Those two worlds shaped everything. After losing her father in 2015, she channeled grief into CrossFit, started competing, and built a coaching practice. Now she is bringing that passion directly to the drivers who need it most, launching a new fitness and nutrition segment called Ready to Roll on Trucker Talk Radio.The conversation covers the biggest mistakes drivers make with food (not preparing before they hit the road), how to build a seven-day healthy meal plan that travels with you, and why moving your body even 20 minutes next to your tractor makes a real long-term difference. Shamaira also breaks down energy drink choices, the truth about beef jerky, which protein bars are actually worth it, and what your best options really are at McDonald's when there is nothing else around.She also shares her perspective from her years in DOT and driver recruiting on why having your paperwork organized digitally through the Ready App driver passport is a game changer for both drivers and officers on the roadside.Follow Shamaira:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readi2roll_/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #truckerhealth #truckinglife #truckerfitness #drivernutrition #healthytrucking #readyapp #fitnessontheroad #truckingpodcast #owneroperator #truckdriver #mealprep #behindthewheelhouse #readytoroll #truckerwellness

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Sean Klimson, owner of Klimson Logistics Solutions, joins Jon and Justin to break down what it actually means to be a freight partner, not just a freight provider.Sean started with zero logistics background, landed in the industry by shagging fly balls at a softball tournament, and spent over a decade sharpening his skills before launching his own brokerage in March 2020, right as the world shut down. He walks through the hard lessons: a customer that went bankrupt and left him holding the bill, teaching himself truckload to survive, and why he ultimately chose the agent model over going fully independent.The conversation covers a lot of ground, including how LTL shipping actually works and why a broker's TMS can pull 80 carrier quotes in under a minute, how fraud and chameleon carriers have reshaped carrier vetting, and why Sean hasn't made a cold sales call in over three years. He also shares the story behind Together Talks, his free magazine-style interview series that has now featured over 237 companies and quietly become one of his strongest growth engines.Follow Sean on X: https://x.com/kls_ownerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-klimson-974689126/Visit his website at https://www.klimsonls.comFollow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#truckertalkradio #behindthewheelhouse #freightbrokerage #ltlshipping #trucking #logistics #freightfraud #carrierverification #owneroperator #truckingpodcast #freightmarket #supplychain #agentmodel #truckingbusiness #freightindustry

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Richard Metzler—transportation executive and private equity operator—joins the show to break down what actually makes a trucking company valuable in today’s market.With decades of experience across FedEx, DHL, XPO Logistics, and multiple private equity-backed ventures, Richard shares a rare inside look at how investors evaluate trucking and logistics companies—and where the biggest opportunities exist today.From launching FedEx’s early home delivery operations to leading global logistics turnarounds and executing M&A deals, Richard has seen every side of the industry. Now, through Legacy Capital, he’s focused on acquiring and scaling specialized trucking businesses with strong margins and long-term growth potential.In this conversation, we cover:• What private equity actually looks for in trucking companies• Why specialized freight (heavy haul, oversized, white glove) is winning• The role AI is starting to play in logistics operations• How automation is reshaping back-office and pricing decisions• Why safety, driver turnover, and scalability still matter most• The “silver tsunami” of aging trucking company owners• What the trucking industry could look like in 5–10 yearsRichard also explains why relationships in trucking aren’t going anywhere—even as automation increases—and how the next wave of growth may come from sectors like AI data centers and specialized freight.If you operate a trucking company, invest in logistics, or want to understand where the industry is heading, this is a must-watch episode.Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Shannon Everett—co-founder of American Truckers United and longtime trucking executive—joins the show to discuss one of the most urgent issues facing the industry today: accountability.With over 25 years of experience across trucking and logistics, Shannon has seen the industry from every angle—from driver to executive leadership. Now, he’s focused on advocacy, working to push for structural changes that prioritize safety, transparency, and responsibility on America’s highways.The conversation centers around Dalilah Law, a growing legislative effort aimed at ensuring drivers operating commercial vehicles are properly verified, qualified, and documented before getting behind the wheel.Shannon breaks down:• Why accountability is the foundation of trucking safety• The real-world consequences of unverified drivers• How gaps in driver verification create risk across the industry• The role legislation like Dalilah Law can play in fixing systemic issues• Why knowing exactly who is behind the wheel matters more than everThis episode goes beyond freight—it’s about protecting drivers, families, and the integrity of the entire trucking industry.Follow Shannon Everett:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonkeverett/https://americantruckers.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #truckdrivers #logistics #freight #supplychain #transportation #truckingindustry #cdl #highwaysafety #truckerlife

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Jonathan Starks—CEO of FTR Transportation Intelligence—joins the show to break down the forces shaping the trucking industry and what’s coming next.If you run a trucking company, manage brokerage capacity, or make decisions based on freight demand, this conversation offers a high-level look at the data driving the market.Jonathan explains why trucking doesn’t simply move in predictable cycles—and how supply, demand, and external pressure actually drive the market. He breaks down what really happened during the COVID freight boom, why the market stayed out of balance for so long, and where things stand today as capacity finally begins to normalize.The discussion also covers one of the biggest misconceptions in trucking: the idea of a “driver shortage.” Jonathan makes it clear—there is no true shortage, but rather a constantly shifting balance between freight demand and available capacity.They also dive into:• Why rates rise and fall (and what triggers those shifts)• How excess capacity builds—and gets corrected• Why most small carriers struggle to plan long-term• The importance of understanding your customer (not just the load board)• How technology will shape the next phase of truckingJonathan also shares what fleets should be thinking about right now—whether to stay lean or prepare for growth—as the market begins to shift again.If you're an owner-operator, fleet owner, broker, or industry professional trying to make smarter decisions in an unpredictable market, this episode gives you the macro perspective most drivers never see.Follow Jonathan StarksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-starks-ftr/https://www.ftrintel.com/meet-the-team/jonathan-starksFollow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #freight #logistics #supplychain #owneroperator #cdl #truckerlife #freightrates #economy #podcast

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Steve Vest, Founder and CEO of Nationwide Equipment Transportation, joins the show to break down the realities of freight brokerage, carrier relationships, and the evolving trucking industry.Steve grew up in a trucking family, built his career from the ground up, and launched his brokerage in 2005—specializing in high-value, specialized equipment moves across the U.S., Canada, and beyond.Throughout the conversation, Steve offers a transparent look into how freight actually works—covering broker margins, why the average sits around 15%, and where the disconnect between carriers and brokers really comes from. He explains why chasing the highest-paying load every time can hurt long-term success, and why building relationships is the real key to consistent freight.The discussion also dives into some of the biggest challenges facing the industry today, including fraud, double brokering, and identity verification. Steve shares how technology, AI, and better vetting systems are starting to reshape how freight is booked—and why both brokers and carriers need to adapt.They also explore what separates top carriers from the rest: communication, professionalism, and consistency. From showing up prepared to leveraging technology correctly, Steve outlines exactly what makes a carrier stand out—and why those small details lead to more opportunities.If you're a truck driver, owner-operator, or broker trying to better understand how freight really works, this episode delivers a clear, experience-backed perspective from someone who has spent decades in the industry.Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #freight #logistics #owneroperator #supplychain #cdl #truckerlife #broker #freightbroker #podcast #stevevest

In this episode of Trucker Talk Radio, Pam breaks down what most new trucking companies get wrong—from compliance and insurance to growth strategy and driver management. She shares how the boom of 2020–2021 brought a wave of new owner-operators into the space, many of whom weren’t prepared for the operational realities of running a business.The conversation dives deep into DOT audits, fraud in the industry, and why so many small fleets struggle to move beyond the 1–5 truck range. Pam also explains why education—not just driving—is the biggest missing piece in trucking today, and how her consulting business helps bridge that gap.They also explore the growing impact of fraud, the lack of driver-level verification systems, and why better infrastructure is needed to protect good operators. Pam makes a strong case for accountability, better systems, and rewarding drivers who do things the right way.If you're an owner-operator, small fleet owner, or thinking about entering the industry—this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons that could save you time, money, and stress.Follow Pamela:YouTube: @PamelaPolyakLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pampolyak/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelapolyak/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/polyaktrucking/https://polyakconsulting.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #owneroperator #logistics #supplychain #freight #truckerlife #cdl #smallbusiness #entrepreneur #podcast

In this episode of Drivers First on Trucker Talk Radio, BearTheVoice3—also known as Barry Mathews—joins Jon Vogt and Justin Holden for a raw and unfiltered conversation about life on the road, health, work ethic, and what trucking has become today.A retired driver with 37 years behind the wheel, Bear built a massive following on TikTok by simply telling it like it is. From cooking meals in his truck to sharing hard-earned life lessons, his authenticity has resonated with drivers across the country.Barry reflects on how trucking has evolved—from the days of multiple logbooks and long hauls with minimal oversight to today’s highly regulated environment—and why he believes the industry has lost trust in drivers. He also opens up about the physical toll of life on the road, including his battle with blood cancer and the reality that many long-haul drivers face serious health challenges.The conversation dives deep into:• The lack of healthy food options for drivers and its long-term impact• Why trucking culture has shifted over the decades• The importance of discipline, responsibility, and work ethic• The dangers of distracted driving and safety concerns on the road• Building a loyal audience on TikTok through authenticity• How Bear turned his content into a business with his seasoning brandBarry also shares a powerful perspective on family, sacrifice, and what truly matters after a lifetime on the road—reminding drivers that while trucking can define your career, it shouldn’t define your entire life.Follow BearTheVoice!TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bearthevoice3Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearthevoice3/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearTheVoice3/YouTube: @BearthevoiceFollow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #truckdriver #truckers #truckerlife #logistics #freight #driversfirst #truckingtips #truckingtalk #cdllife #truckercommunity

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Jon Vogt and Justin Holden sit down with Ryan Joyce, CEO of GenLogs, to discuss how real-world truck intelligence data is transforming freight visibility, fraud prevention, and carrier verification across the trucking industry.Ryan brings a unique background to logistics technology. Before founding GenLogs, he spent nearly two decades in the U.S. intelligence community, including time with the CIA running counterterrorism operations in the Middle East. That experience in intelligence gathering and data analysis ultimately led him to ask a simple question: why can we track airplanes and ships around the world, but not trucks moving across the United States?GenLogs was created to solve that problem.The company has built a nationwide network of roadside sensors and cameras that collect millions of data points on commercial truck movements every day. By combining that data with AI-powered analysis, the platform helps brokers, insurers, shippers, and carriers verify whether trucks are actually operating on the roads, detect fraudulent carriers, and identify potential safety risks.Throughout the conversation, Ryan explains how fragmented data across trucking has created blind spots that allow cargo theft, double brokering, and “chameleon carriers” to operate unnoticed. GenLogs aims to close those gaps by creating a real-world intelligence layer for freight movement.Topics covered in this episode include:• How GenLogs built a nationwide truck intelligence network • Why trucking lacks the visibility systems used in aviation and maritime • The rise of cargo theft, chameleon carriers, and freight fraud • How AI and roadside sensors are being used to monitor truck activity • Why insurers, brokers, and carriers are adopting freight intelligence tools • How GenLogs helps recover stolen trailers and missing equipment • The importance of data transparency for the future of freightRyan also discusses how freight technology platforms like GenLogs and Ready App can work together to bring greater verification and accountability to the industry — helping legitimate carriers and drivers compete while reducing fraud and operational risk.If you want to understand how data, AI, and intelligence gathering are shaping the next generation of trucking technology, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Follow Ryan Joyce: X: https://x.com/ryanjoycevoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanjoyce-/Follow GenLogs! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/genlogs/ X: https://x.com/GenLogs Website: https://www.genlogs.io/Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #logistics #freight #supplychain #truckingindustry #freighttech #genlogs #cargotheft #brokerage #trucker

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Paul Tonsager joins Jon Vogt and Justin Holden to discuss how real-world truck movement data is transforming freight visibility, insurance risk assessment, and fraud prevention across the trucking industry.Paul is a longtime transportation leader with decades of experience in rail, intermodal logistics, and global supply chains. A third-generation railroader, he has held leadership roles across the rail, shipping, trucking, and procurement sectors—including senior positions with Canadian National and Maersk—before transitioning into advisory work with logistics technology companies like GenLogs.GenLogs is building one of the most ambitious datasets in freight by collecting real-world truck movement intelligence through roadside sensors, satellite data, and AI-powered analysis. The platform allows brokers, insurers, and shippers to verify whether carriers are actually operating the lanes they claim—addressing one of the biggest problems in modern logistics: fraud, misrepresentation, and lack of transparency.Throughout the conversation, we explore how better data is reshaping freight operations, why trucking still lags behind other industries technologically, and how visibility tools could reduce cargo theft, improve underwriting decisions, and create a more trustworthy supply chain.We also dive into the broader evolution of transportation technology, including the legal and infrastructure challenges surrounding autonomous trucks and why meaningful adoption may still be decades away.Topics covered include:• Freight fraud and misrepresentation in trucking• How AI and camera networks track real truck movement• Why trucking technology lags behind other industries• Cargo theft, insurance risk, and supply chain transparency• The role of data in verifying fleets and lanes• Intermodal transportation and rail vs trucking dynamics• The future of autonomous trucksTechnology, transparency, and trusted data are becoming critical to the future of logistics—and tools like GenLogs are helping the industry move in that direction.This episode breaks down how those systems work and what they mean for brokers, carriers, insurers, and drivers.Follow Paul Tonsager!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ptonsager/Follow GenLogs!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/genlogs/X: https://x.com/GenLogsWebsite: https://www.genlogs.io/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #logistics #freight #supplychain #truckdrivers #truckingindustry #transportation #freightbroker #logisticsindustry #truckers #supplychainmanagement #cargo #truckerlife #behindthewheelhouse #truckertalkradio

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we sit down with Daniel Iordan, Founder and CEO of Moovers Chicago, to discuss what it really takes to build a service-based logistics company in one of the most competitive moving markets in America.Daniel shares his journey from immigrating to the United States from Romania at 20 years old — without speaking English — to becoming a Chicago police officer and ultimately building one of the most respected moving companies in the Midwest.With over 450 licensed competitors in the Chicago market, Daniel explains how Moovers Chicago differentiates itself through culture, discipline, premium service, and leadership standards. From fleet maintenance and compliance to hiring for cultural fit over skill, this conversation dives deep into the operational and philosophical principles behind scaling a moving and logistics company the right way.We cover:• The reality of the American Dream through entrepreneurship• Hiring for fit vs. hiring for skill• Leadership responsibility and building team culture• Equipment strategy in urban logistics (box trucks vs. 18-wheelers)• Long-distance white glove moving services• The importance of maintenance and compliance in trucking• Operational challenges in high-turnover industries• Why blue-collar dignity and work ethic still matterMoovers Chicago provides local, long-distance, residential, storage, and premium relocation services — with a culture-first philosophy that drives their growth.If you’re in trucking, logistics, moving, or any service-based business, this episode delivers practical insights on leadership, culture, and long-term strategy.Follow Daniel Iordan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-iordan-8a22262a9/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moovers-chicago-inc/IG: https://www.instagram.com/moovers_chicago/?hl=enWebsite: https://mooverschicago.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#TruckingIndustry #MovingCompany #Logistics #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Leadership #FleetManagement #ChicagoBusiness #BlueCollar #BehindTheWheelhouse #TruckerTalkRadio

In this special episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we step outside the trucking industry and into the world of private aviation.Jack Lambert, CEO of FlyHouse, joins Jon Vogt and Justin Holden to break down how technology, transparency, and culture are reshaping the private jet space — and why aviation and trucking have more in common than you think.Jack explains how FlyHouse eliminates broker friction, connects consumers directly with aircraft operators, and creates a community-driven ecosystem with over 2,000 aircraft on its platform. From splitting charter costs in-app to redefining safety standards and operational culture, FlyHouse is building a verification-first, transparency-driven model in an industry long dominated by middlemen.The conversation covers:Why private aviation lacks true barriers to entryThe hidden cost of “too many hands in the cookie jar”Culture vs. compliance in aviation safetyEntrepreneurial risk, lessons learned the hard way, and reputation in high-stakes industriesHow aspirational executives can access private aviation without being ultra-wealthyJack also shares a powerful story about losing nearly everything over a missed commitment — and the lesson that shaped his leadership philosophy: your word is everything.Whether you’re in logistics, aviation, or building your own business, this episode is about speed, trust, culture, and creating a frictionless experience at scale.Follow Jack LambertLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlambert32/FlyHouse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flyhouse/https://www.goflyhouse.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we sit down with TJ Graff, CEO of Star Behaviors and a 22-year industry veteran, to break down one of the biggest structural failures in trucking: driver turnover.TJ drove for 22 years — including convoy missions in Iraq and Afghanistan — before transitioning into recruiting and behavioral assessment. His conclusion? Trucking doesn’t have a driver shortage problem. It has a hiring and system alignment problem.We discuss: • Why traditional qualification-based hiring fuels 75–125% annual turnover • The true cost of replacing a driver (over $12,000 per hire) • Predictive hiring vs. “meat in the seat” recruiting • Behavioral indicators that compliance checks completely miss • Safety, customer service, teamwork & personal accountability • Why drivers should be treated like customers • The SAP program & FMCSA Clearinghouse explained • What second chance programs should (and shouldn’t) look like • How Star Path raises the safety bar instead of lowering itTJ explains how behavioral assessments can identify drivers who are aligned with a company’s culture, freight profile, and long-term expectations — reducing churn, strengthening safety, and improving profitability.If the industry wants to reduce turnover, nuclear verdict exposure, and hiring fatigue, it may be time to stop moving faster — and start hiring smarter.🔗 Learn more about Star Behaviors: https://starbehaviors.com Follow TJ Graff on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/tj-graff-700772a?originalSubdomain=mxFollow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org

Truck parking is one of the most overlooked—and most damaging—problems in the trucking industry.In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we’re joined by Reed Loustalot, Chief Marketing Officer at Truck Parking Club, to break down why the nationwide truck parking shortage is more than an inconvenience—it’s a systemic issue impacting driver safety, productivity, retention, and fleet efficiency.Reed explains how Truck Parking Club operates as a two-sided marketplace, helping truck drivers and fleets reserve reliable parking while allowing property owners to monetize unused space. With thousands of locations across nearly every U.S. state, the platform is addressing a problem that has forced drivers to park on highway ramps, in neighborhoods, or miles away from receivers—often cutting days short and increasing risk.Throughout the conversation, we dive into the real-world consequences of the parking shortage: lost miles, higher stress, unsafe parking, nuclear verdict exposure, and the hidden costs fleets absorb when drivers are forced to shut down early. Reed shares data on the estimated parking gap, explains why government-funded solutions alone can’t fix the problem, and outlines how leveraging existing infrastructure can scale faster and more affordably.The episode also explores how fleets are beginning to rethink parking as a strategic advantage—using reservable parking to improve asset utilization, reduce driver churn, and position equipment closer to customers. From owner-operators to large carriers, this discussion highlights how solving truck parking can unlock efficiency across the entire freight network.Behind the Wheelhouse is about the operational realities behind trucking—and the people building practical solutions that keep freight moving.Follow Reed & Truck Parking Club: X: https://x.com/lostisreed X: https://x.com/trukparkingclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reedloustalot/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truckparkingclub-com/Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready App The driver-verification and onboarding platform built for today’s trucking industry—helping carriers, brokers, and agencies know exactly who’s hauling their freight. Learn more: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross A 501(c)(3) supporting trucking families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org#BehindTheWheelhouse #TruckParking #TruckDrivers #TruckingIndustry #CDL #OwnerOperator #FleetManagement #Logistics #Freight #SupplyChain #Transportation #TruckSafety #DriverRetention #Infrastructure #TruckerTalkRadio #BlueCollar #AmericanWorkers

Truck driving is one of the most essential jobs in the trucking industry—yet the voices of experienced truck drivers are often the least heard. In the premiere episode of Drivers First, a new series from Trucker Talk Radio, we sit down with Dewayne Rush, a veteran truck driver with more than three decades of experience behind the wheel. Dewayne has spent years as both a company driver and an owner-operator, building a reputation for professionalism, safety, and doing the job the right way. Currently driving for CNS Logistics, Dewayne shares what long-term commitment to a carrier looks like in today’s trucking industry—and why loyalty, trust, and accountability still matter for truck drivers navigating an increasingly challenging freight environment. He explains how maintaining equipment, respecting customers, and building real relationships can define a driver’s success just as much as miles and pay. Throughout the episode, the conversation dives into the real problems truck drivers face on the road today: high driver turnover, pressure from cheap freight, safety concerns, training gaps for new truck drivers, and the growing sense that truck driving experience is being undervalued. Dewayne also speaks candidly about changes he’s witnessed in trucking over the years—from automation and technology to language barriers and road safety—and why experience still matters when lives are on the line. From owner-operators to company drivers, this episode highlights what good truck drivers do differently—and why many experienced drivers feel pushed out of the trucking industry altogether. Drivers First is about real conversations with real truck drivers. Because the trucking industry only works when drivers come first. Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradio Powered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.com Support GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org #DriversFirst #Trucking #TruckDriving #TruckDrivers #TruckingIndustry #CDL #OwnerOperator #CompanyDriver #TruckingPodcast #TruckerTalkRadio #Freight #Logistics #Transportation #TruckersLife #BlueCollar #AmericanWorkers #SupplyChain #RoadSafety

In this episode of Drivers First, we sit down with truck driver Ron Strenger for one of the most honest conversations we’ve had on the show. Ron shares his real journey into trucking—from leaving entrepreneurship behind, entering the industry through grant-funded CDL training, and navigating the hard realities of dispatch relationships, job hopping, and long stretches without work. This episode isn’t about perfection. It’s about accountability, self-awareness, and what it actually takes to survive—and grow—in today’s trucking industry. We discuss why frequent job changes can quietly derail a driver’s career, how reputation follows drivers through DAC records, and why many carriers hesitate to hire experienced drivers with unstable work histories. Ron also opens up about personal growth, stress management, and learning when to stand firm versus when to pick your battles. This conversation is especially important for: - New truck drivers entering the industry - Experienced drivers struggling to find stability - Owner-operators facing downtime and dispatcher issues - Carriers trying to understand driver turnover from the driver’s perspective Ron’s story is raw, unfiltered, and relatable—proof that trucking is as much about mindset and professionalism as it is about miles. Powered by Ready App Ready App helps drivers stay organized, prepared, and consistent—especially during job transitions. One profile. One DOT application. All documents in one place. Learn more: ready-app.com Supported by Grey Cross Grey Cross supports families affected by roadway tragedies, helping cover emergency expenses during times of sudden loss. Donate or learn more: greycross.orgRon Strenger's Phone Contact: 479-305-0550Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradio

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, Jon and Justin sit down with Mark Zimmerman, a multi-generation trucking executive with decades of hands-on experience running a family-owned carrier. Drawing from his background and leadership at Zimmerman Truck Lines, Mark offers a candid, operator-driven perspective on some of the most misunderstood issues in trucking today. Mark challenges the widely repeated idea of a “driver shortage,” arguing that market fundamentals don’t support it. If there were truly too few drivers, rates would be rising—not falling. Instead, he explains how rate compression, poor standards, and misaligned incentives have distorted the conversation and weakened the industry. He also makes clear why he remains doubtful of AI and automation in trucking. While technology has a role, Mark believes the industry still depends on human judgment, communication, and accountability—especially when things go wrong. From breakdowns to negotiations to safety decisions, trucking continues to rely on people, not algorithms. Finally, the conversation turns to what Mark sees as the most critical missing piece in trucking today: treating drivers right. He shares firsthand examples and industry stories that highlight how often drivers are disrespected, misled, or treated as disposable—and why his company has taken a different approach. For Mark, respect, transparency, and dignity aren’t soft values; they are the foundation of retention, safety, and long-term success. Follow Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-zimmerman-64995999/ https://www.facebook.com/markzimmerman71/ Follow Zimmerman Truck Lines: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zimmerman-truck-repairs/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/zimmerman-truck-lines-inc/ https://ztlinc.com/ Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradio Powered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.com Support GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org #trucking #logistics #supplychain #freight #truckdriver #transportation #business #technology #ai #automation #leadership #workforce #jobs #economy #infrastructure #manufacturing #smallbusiness #entrepreneurship #podcast #transport

Danny Pulver, an LTL Dispatcher at Northern Logistics Worldwide, joins Behind the Wheelhouse to break down what dispatch really looks like behind the scenes — and why strong relationships between dispatchers, drivers, and customers are the backbone of successful operations. With eight years at Northern Logistics, Danny walks through a typical day managing 40–60 LTL orders, coordinating drivers across Michigan and the Midwest, handling breakdowns, tight delivery windows, and the constant problem-solving that defines dispatch work. He explains the differences between LTL and truckload freight, why communication is everything, and how experienced drivers often make or break a delivery day.The conversation also explores driver scorecards, accountability, safety technology, internal training programs, and what the future may hold for LTL freight amid automation and industry change. This episode offers valuable insight for drivers, dispatchers, carriers, and anyone curious about how freight really moves.Topics covered include:What LTL dispatch actually involves day to dayManaging driver relationships and customer expectationsHandling breakdowns, delays, and last-minute changes Driver scorecards, accountability, and professionalismWhy experienced drivers matter more than ever Growth and culture at Northern Logistics WorldwideFollow Northern Logistics WorldwideWebsite: https://northernlogistics.comPhone: (989) 386-7556LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/northern-logistics-worldwide/Follow Danny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-pulver-380a9811a/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, the Trucker Talk Radio team sits down with Harry Heinsen, a third-generation logistics leader operating out of the Dominican Republic, whose family has been in transportation and freight forwarding for over 110 years.Harry shares what it’s like growing up in a multigenerational logistics business and how starting at the bottom shaped his approach to leadership, cash flow, and relationships. The conversation explores how freight forwarding really works, from bills of lading and customs documentation to ocean freight, air freight, and the realities of moving cargo across borders.We also break down how trucking and logistics differ outside the United States, including why drivers in the Dominican Republic can complete multiple trips per day, how nearshoring is reshaping global supply chains, and why U.S. companies are increasingly moving manufacturing closer to home.This episode is a must-watch for truck drivers, owner-operators, brokers, and logistics professionals who want a clearer understanding of international freight, nearshoring, and why relationships still matter more than price in this business.Filmed as part of Behind the Wheelhouse, presented by Trucker Talk Radio.Follow Harry Heinsen:https://www.linkedin.com/in/harryheinsen/Follow Harry Heinsen & CO.https://www.linkedin.com/company/harryheinsenco/https://www.instagram.com/harryheinsenco/?hl=enhttps://harryheinsen.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, hosts Jon and Justin sit down with Alex Snook, CEO and Co-Founder of On|Sight, to unpack how cargo theft really happens and why traditional digital vetting tools are no longer enough to stop it.After losing a full truckload of solar panels to a sophisticated fraud scheme, Snook set out to build a solution that tackles the problem at its source. On|Sight is a shipper-first driver verification platform that focuses on physical, real-time authentication — ensuring the truck and driver who show up are exactly who they claim to be.Throughout the conversation, we discuss:- How freight fraud happens even when carriers “look good on paper”- Why shippers have historically been shielded from the true cost of fraud- The limitations of digital-only vetting and why physical verification matters- How On|Sight verifies drivers at the dock using secure, frictionless tools- Why trucking has lagged behind on technology — and what needs to change- Lessons for entrepreneurs building solutions from firsthand industry pain pointsThis episode is essential listening for shippers, brokers, carriers, and logistics leaders who want to understand where freight fraud actually starts, and how to stop it before freight ever leaves the facility.Follow Alex & On|Sight: Alex's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/os-alexsnook/OnSight linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/verifyonsight/Website: https://www.verifyonsight.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we sit down with Derek Birgin and Matt Griswold, co-owners of Destination Transport, for a deep dive into what truly drives success in today’s freight market. From humble beginnings as a four-person startup to becoming a trusted, nationwide brokerage, Derek and Matt break down why human relationships—not automation—remain the backbone of great service in logistics.They share how Destination Transport built its reputation through reliability, cradle-to-grave ownership, and a driver-first philosophy that sets them apart in an industry increasingly shaped by technology. We also explore their strategies for fighting fraud, improving carrier vetting, growing LTL operations, and preparing for the next wave of challenges facing brokers and shippers.Whether you're a carrier, broker, or shipper, this conversation offers rare insight into what it really takes to build trust, deliver consistently, and outperform the noise in a rapidly evolving freight environment.Follow our guest:Website: https://www.destinationtrans.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Destinationtransportmn/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/destinationtrans/posts/?feedView=allMatt Griswold's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-griswold-5979a652/Derek Birgin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-birgin-921175129/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, Jon and Justin sit down with Stephen Greer, CEO of VTI Specialized, for one of the most forward-looking conversations we’ve had on the show.Stephen breaks down the future of VTI, the rising impact of autonomous trucks, the real math behind driver shortages, and why the cost of running a trucking company has jumped 34% in just a few years (with rates staying the same). He also discusses onboarding, insurance pressure, the flatbed market, VTI’s growth strategy, and why small-to-mid-sized carriers still win with speed, service, and trust.In this conversation, we cover:• VTI’s plan to double over the coming years• The rise of autonomous trucks and who will feel it first• Why the driver shortage is accelerating faster than people think• The hidden cost drivers don’t understand (insurance, freight claims, safety pressure)• Why onboarding, training, and safety investment must evolve• Why transparency and communication keep drivers loyal• What VTI looks for in new hires and new driver partners• How smaller carriers can outperform mega fleets• Why Stephen believes the industry will split into winners & losers over the next 5 years• What young dispatchers, drivers, and agents need to learn NOW to survive the future of trucking• The role AI will play in efficiency, planning, onboarding, and fraud detection• Why “service over sales” is the future model for freight companiesIf you're a driver, carrier, dispatcher, fleet owner, broker, or recruiter, this episode gives you a real look at where the industry is heading — and how companies like VTI Specialized are preparing for the next decade.Follow Stephen GreerVTI Specialized: https://vti-specialized.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-greer-b3000236/Powered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.orgFollow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradio#TruckerTalkRadio #BehindTheWheelhouse #StephenGreer #VTISpecialized #TruckingIndustry #AutonomousTrucks #DriverShortage #FleetManagement #TruckDrivers #Logistics #TruckingPodcast #TransportationIndustry

In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, Jon and Justin sit down with Randy Clifton of Sunset Transportation, a veteran with over 20 years at the same brokerage — a rarity in today’s industry.Randy breaks down what has kept him loyal to Sunset for two decades, why relationship-driven logistics still works, and how he’s navigated trucking from the days of Rolodexes and fax machines to today’s world of TMS systems, fraud rings, and AI tools.In this conversation, we cover:• The Sunset Transportation story & their relationship-centric philosophy• Why Randy’s office is “truck-first” and built around real driver respect• The rise of fraud, double brokering, MC theft & overseas dispatch operations• Why verifying drivers is becoming as important as verifying carriers• The struggle with non-English-speaking CDL holders and safety concerns• Why parking, cross-docks, and meeting drivers in person still matter• The economics behind today’s $1.90 rates and why the market is broken• Deregulation, supply & demand, and why rates haven’t changed in 20 years• How AI may change brokerage — and why relationships will still win• Advice for young brokers, agents, and Gen-Z newcomers entering the industryRandy also shares his hopes for the next 12–24 months, the future of Sunset’s growth in Phoenix, and what he believes needs to change for trucking to stabilize.If you’re a driver, owner-operator, broker, dispatcher, carrier, or recruiter — this is a must-watch episode packed with hard truths and real industry insight.Follow Randy CliftonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-clifton-5bb2403a/Clifton Freight Services: cliftonfreightservices.comSunset Transportation: sunsettrans.comPowered by Ready AppReady App helps carriers and brokers verify drivers, stop fraud, and secure freight with real driver profiles, document validation, and safety tools.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) organization helping families affected by roadway tragedies.Subscribe, share, and comment to help us grow the trucking conversations that matter.#TruckerTalkRadio #BehindTheWheelhouse #SunsetTransportation #TruckingIndustry #DoubleBrokering #FreightFraud #DriverRecruiting #Logistics #CDLDrivers #TransportationLeadership #FleetManagement

Welcome to the first-ever episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, a new Trucker Talk Radio series where Jon and Justin break down the REAL issues facing trucking in 2025 - from the people running the loads to the people running the business.In this kickoff episode, Jon and Justin dive into the challenges CEOs, founders, safety leaders, recruiters, and dispatchers face every day:• Why driver turnover remains sky-high• How insurance and onboarding delays crush carriers• Why relationship-based recruiting is the future• What drivers don’t see behind the curtain of running a fleet• How dispatching, communication, and work ethic impact weekly pay• Why good drivers should be rewarded like top performers in any other industry• How Ready App and modern tools help highlight high-quality drivers• Why carriers struggle with onboarding times, MVR checks, safety requirements, and keeping trucks moving• Why continuous driver movement is the #1 key to driver happiness• How dispatch-driver relationships make or break retention“Behind the Wheelhouse” is built to bridge the gap between executives and drivers - giving both sides a chance to understand what the other deals with every single day.Each week, we’ll sit down with CEOs, founders, fleet directors, dispatch leaders, and veteran drivers to talk about real problems, real solutions, and real ways to improve the industry.If you’re a driver, owner-operator, recruiter, dispatcher, carrier, or logistics professional - this show is for you.Want to be featured or submit questions for upcoming guests?Reach out in the comments or DM us - we want this show to be interactive and built with and for the trucking community!Check out our sponsors:ready-app.com - Empowering drivers & carriers through better transparency and recruitingGreyCross.org - Supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across AmericaSubscribe, follow, and share to help grow the trucking conversations that matter.#TruckerTalkRadio #BehindTheWheelhouse #TruckingIndustry #TruckDrivers #FleetManagement #DriverRecruiting #Logistics #TruckingPodcast #TruckingLife #CDLDrivers #TruckingBusiness