Semi-Related

In this episode of The Semi-Related Podcast, host Jacob Eischen sits down with Oliver Jones, co-founder and CEO of Manifold, to explore his journey from software engineer to freight tech founder. Oliver shares his path from building large-scale storage systems to joining Convoy in its early days, where he helped shape automation in spot bidding, tendering, and integrations during the company’s rapid rise.Oliver opens up about the lessons learned through Convoy, the pivotal decision to apply to Y Combinator, and the early days of building Manifold as a connectivity layer that unifies scattered spot freight opportunities. He talks about customer-driven product development, the role of AI in lowering barriers to tech adoption, and why the future of freight lies in making smarter, data-backed decisions rather than chasing standardization.Whether you’re curious about the realities of startup life, the challenges of automating logistics, or how AI is reshaping freight technology, this conversation offers candid insights, hard-earned lessons, and a look at what’s ahead for the industry.

In this episode of Semi-Related, host Jacob Eischen chats with Third Person founder and CEO Matt Hertz about his journey through the fast-paced world of e-commerce logistics. From cutting his teeth at Rent the Runway with nothing but a dry cleaner’s backroom and an Excel sheet, to scaling Birchbox through multiple 3PL transitions, Matt shares gritty, firsthand lessons in scaling operations and navigating the complexities of fulfillment.

On the latest episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, NMFTA COO Joe Ohr and Director of Cybersecurity Artie Crawford join host Jacob Eischen to discuss how dark-web ransomware rentals, AI-forged emails, and hacked telematics give thieves a back-door pass to your freight and how fleets can prepare a road-ready defense plan. They also preview the NMFTA’s Cybersecurity Conference this October and the no-cost tools rolling out to help carriers of every size stay a step ahead of the next breach.

In this episode of Semi-Related, Jacob Eischen sits down with Raghav Midha, co-founder and CEO of Terminal, to explore the journey of building a startup from scratch—and the critical role Terminal plays in modernizing logistics. Raghav shares how his background in fintech and his co-founder’s deep roots in trucking led them to discover a major gap in telematics integration.Hear how hundreds of interviews, late nights, and a mission to "make something people want" shaped Terminal’s unified API for telematics, fueling faster innovation across insurance, dispatching, TMS, and shipment visibility. From humble beginnings with a landing page prototype to powering hundreds of thousands of vehicles, Raghav reflects on the importance of trusting your gut, never wasting a crisis, and staying customer-obsessed as Terminal continues to grow.

In this episode of Semi-Related, Chris Torrence welcomes longtime logistics veteran Michael Campese, now Chief Business Officer at DDC Group. With a career spanning over three decades—most of it spent rising through the ranks at Estes—Michael shares stories of getting his start in a warehouse, pursuing a career in LTL sales (yes, on purpose), and eventually pitching a business plan directly to Rob Estes that launched his corporate career.Chris and Michael dive into what’s changed—and what hasn’t—in transportation, why the industry remains behind in tech adoption, and how leaders can close the gap between legacy systems and modern solutions without losing sight of people and process. They talk domain knowledge, the myth of the all-knowing AI, and how the best tech implementations always start with a full-body diagnostic—metaphorically speaking.Plus, Michael shares how DDC Group approaches transformation projects, why bringing the right people into the room matters more than ever, and why he’s optimistic about the next generation in freight.

In this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, host Jacob Eischen sits down with guest Eric Williams to dive deep into the world of freight, logistics, and procurement innovation. Eric shares his career journey—from his early days on the trading floor to his pivotal role in transforming how brokers, shippers, and carriers navigate pricing and capacity challenges.Listeners will gain insights into how traditional RFP processes can be streamlined and enhanced with technology, learn about the creation and evolution of his tool, Beagl, and hear firsthand stories of market shifts and dynamic decision-making in an ever-changing industry. With candid discussions on the impact of tariffs, the art of pricing, and the importance of strategic partnerships, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of finance, logistics, and innovation.

Dive into the fascinating world of operations research and network optimization in this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, hosted by Jacob Eischen. Featuring special guest Dr. Halit Üster—a professor in Operations Research and Engineering Management at SMU—this conversation uncovers the intricacies of designing relay networks for the trucking industry, building biomass supply chains, and planning large-scale emergency evacuation systems. You’ll learn how systems thinking, data science, and stakeholder perspectives all combine to influence real-world decisions in fields ranging from agricultural logistics to disaster preparedness.Tune in to hear Dr. Üster’s journey from mechanical engineering in Turkey to becoming a leading researcher in North America, along with his passion for applying mathematical models to real-world problems. Whether you’re interested in the future of AI-driven optimization, the challenges of aligning business and driver incentives in trucking, or new approaches to preventing gridlock during hurricanes, this conversation has you covered.

In this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast by Optym, host Jacob Eischen sits down with Keith Peterson from the NMFTA to explore sweeping changes in freight classification and how the industry can prepare for the future . Keith delves into “Classification Reimagined,” shares insights on the Digital Standards Development Council’s work to standardize and streamline LTL and truckload processes, and highlights the importance of cybersecurity in keeping freight operations secure.Tune in to hear Keith’s personal journey through multiple generations of trucking, the critical role of density-based shipping, and how modern technology—from open-source APIs to advanced data practices—is driving the industry forward.Whether you’re a carrier, shipper, tech provider, or simply passionate about logistics, this conversation offers practical tips and a forward-looking perspective on the road ahead.

LTL pricing and operations are evolving fast, and SMC3’s Brian Thompson is at the center of it. In this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence and Brian break down two of the biggest shifts happening in the industry right now: the NMFTA’s proposed classification changes and the push for standardized APIs.They discuss how the NMFTA Digital Standard Development Council is working to modernize data exchange, the impact of new freight classification changes, and how SMC³ is helping carriers, shippers, and 3PLs adopt digital-first solutions.If you’re in the freight industry, this is a must-listen for understanding how better data sharing and automation are shaping the future of LTL.

In this episode ofSemi-Related, hostChris Torrence sits down withEric Johnson, Senior Editor of Technology atJOC.com & S&P Global, to explore the intersection of journalism, supply chain, and technology. They discuss Eric’s journey into logistics reporting, the challenges of journalistic integrity in a fast-moving industry, and the evolving role of AI in freight.The conversation dives into the latest trade war developments, tariff policies, and their impact on shippers, carriers, and global supply chains. Plus, Eric shares insights on the explosion of AI-driven freight tech and whether the hype matches reality. They also touch on the changing dynamics of logistics events likeTPM and how the industry is adapting to uncertainty.A mix of sharp analysis and candid conversation, this episode is a must-listen for supply chain professionals, freight tech enthusiasts, and anyone navigating the complexities of global trade.

On this episode of Semi-Related, host Shaman Ahuja sits down with Harman Cheema, CEO of Cheema Freightlines, to discuss the journey of building and scaling a trucking company. Harman shares how he and his father grew their business from a single truck to a fleet of 500, navigating industry shifts, technological changes, and the ever-present challenge of driver retention. They dive into key milestones in Cheema Freightlines' evolution, including the transition from power-only to owning trailers, the growing pains of reaching 100+ trucks, and the importance of leadership at scale. Harman also talks about technology adoption in trucking—how ELDs, dash cams, and automation tools have changed the industry—and the delicate balance between human connection and efficiency in driver management. From the challenges of running a family-owned trucking business to the future of AI-driven dispatching, this conversation is packed with insights for trucking professionals, fleet owners, and anyone interested in the logistics world. Tune in to hear how Cheema Freightlines is staying ahead in an ever-changing industry while keeping drivers at the heart of the business.

In this episode of the Semi-Related podcast, host Chris Torrence sits down with Nick Darman, co-founder and CEO of Alvys, to explore his journey from dispatching for his father’s trucking company to building a game-changing logistics platform. Nick shares lessons learned from launching a hybrid freight brokerage and carrier model, the challenges of scaling proprietary technology, and his vision for empowering small to mid-sized fleets with tools that simplify operations and drive growth. Tune in to hear insights on market trends, freight tech innovation, and what’s next for Alvys in 2025.

In this episode of the ⁠Semi-Related Podcast⁠ by Optym, host Chris Torrence sits down with Bill Driegert, a seasoned leader in logistics, tech innovation, and operations. Join us for an engaging conversation as Bill shares his love for cars and music to his journey in becoming a pivotal figure in the freight and supply chain industries. Learn about Bill's early career at Frito-Lay, his role in transforming logistics at Amazon, and his involvement with innovative ventures like Coyote Logistics and Uber Freight. We explore the impact of technology in freight, the evolution of final-mile delivery, and the balance between startup culture and industry tradition. Whether you're a logistics professional, tech enthusiast, or just curious about the personal stories behind industry leaders, this episode offers a unique look at the man behind the movement. Tune in to discover how passions for racing, music, and engineering shaped a career that’s redefining the way goods move across the globe.

In this episode, Chris Torrence hosts Chris Henry for an insightful discussion on what separates successful trucking carriers from the rest. They explore topics like using benchmarking to identify strengths and weaknesses, the importance of focusing on high-density lanes, and how aligning sales and operations can avoid costly inefficiencies. Chris shares lessons learned from years of working with carriers, highlighting how self-reflection, humility, and collaboration are traits that set profitable companies apart. From operational alignment to uncovering overlooked data points like time accuracy and load profitability, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies for carriers aiming to improve their bottom line. Whether you're thinking about reducing costs, making smarter decisions with your data, or enhancing your network strategy, this episode offers valuable insights for any carrier looking to level up their operations. Don’t miss this deep dive into the math and mindset behind trucking success. Hear more from Chris Henry on his webinar appearance discussing the dos and don'ts of network discipline.

In this episode of Semi-Related, host Jacob Eischen chats with Tom Moore of the National Private Truck Council (NPTC) to dive into the evolving world of private fleets. From the significant increase in outbound freight handled by private fleets to the changing expectations of drivers and the role of technology in fleet management, Tom shares data-driven insights and expert analysis. Highlights include: Key takeaways from the NPTC's annual benchmarking report. How private fleets are adapting to post-pandemic freight trends. The importance of aligning driver needs with operational goals. Emerging equipment and technology trends enhancing safety and efficiency. The ongoing challenge of managing backhauls effectively. Tom also provides a glimpse into the future of private fleets, touching on sustainability trends, driver compensation, and the increasing focus on internal support for drivers.

In this special year-end episode of Semi-Related⁠, Chris Torrence⁠ sits down with Charlie Saffro, founder and president of CS Recruiting, to discuss everything from personal branding and career transitions to the evolving dynamics of recruiting in the freight and logistics industries. As the holidays approach, Charlie shares insights into navigating the job market, fostering meaningful human connections in a tech-driven world, and why skills matter more than ever in today’s hiring landscape. With wit and wisdom, they explore the balance of automation and human touch in recruiting, the importance of cultivating a personal brand, and how companies and candidates alike can prepare for the opportunities ahead in 2025. Plus, Charlie offers a glimpse into her personal holiday traditions and her unconventional approach to self-care. Whether you're an employer, a job seeker, or simply curious about the latest trends in freight and recruiting, this episode delivers actionable advice and heartfelt reflections. Tune in for a mix of practical tips, engaging stories, and holiday cheer to close out the year on a thoughtful note!

In this episode of ⁠Semi-Related⁠, host ⁠Chris Torrence⁠ sits down with Mike Robinson, founder of The Eighth Notch and retail industry veteran, to explore the intersection of consumer behavior, sustainability, and the logistics challenges of modern e-commerce. Mike shares his journey from a finance major dreaming of Wall Street to revolutionizing retail operations at companies like Macy's, where he helped grow their e-commerce channel from $700 million to $7 billion. The conversation dives into key insights about consumer expectations, reverse logistics, and the future of brick-and-mortar stores. Mike also explains how The 8th Notch is transforming last-mile delivery with innovative solutions to reduce waste, optimize routes, and create a more sustainable future for logistics. Along the way, Chris and Mike discuss the role of AI, change management, and the growing importance of conscious consumerism in shaping the future of retail and logistics. Whether you're a supply chain professional, tech enthusiast, or curious consumer, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities driving the evolution of retail and delivery networks. Tune in to discover how smarter logistics can create better outcomes for businesses, consumers, and the planet.

In this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Mark Funk, Director of Carrier Procurement at SPI Logistics, to explore the agent model in logistics and its impact on the industry. Mark shares insights from his extensive career, including his time at Sara Lee, TQL, and R&L Global Logistics, offering a unique perspective on freight brokerage, carrier relationships, and operational challenges. The discussion covers: The benefits and challenges of the agent model compared to traditional brokerage. The role of technology and AI in modernizing logistics operations. The growing importance of back-office support and compliance. Addressing freight fraud and strengthening trust within the logistics ecosystem. Predictions for 2025, including market recovery and capacity trends. Whether you're a logistics professional, a curious industry outsider, or someone considering a leap into the agent model, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking dialogue. Don't miss Mark's expert take on the future of logistics and how relationships remain at the heart of this ever-evolving industry. Tune in and join the conversation!

In this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Swan Webb, Co-Founder of Results from Data, to explore the transformative role of data in the trucking industry. From his early career at BNSF Railway to his passion for empowering mid-size carriers with actionable insights, Swan shares his journey of blending analytics, optimization, and industry expertise to solve real-world challenges. Tune in to hear Swan's thoughts on: Why trucking needs to embrace analytics to drive efficiency. The evolution of AI, automation, and optimization tools in freight management. How data is reshaping decision-making processes The value of understanding trucking fundamentals when leveraging advanced tech. Swan also shares his perspective on the future of the industry, how businesses can thrive in tough market conditions, and why focusing on relationships, storytelling, and trust remains key—even in a data-driven world. 📧 Want to connect with Swan? Reach out at [email protected] or visit resultsfromdata.com. 🔍 Don’t miss this deep dive into how trucking companies can harness the power of data to navigate today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities!

In this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, hosted by Chris Torrence, we dive into the multifaceted world of logistics with special guest James Nissenberg, Vice President of Logistics at Santa Monica Seafood. Known for his impressive career spanning asset-based transportation, logistics consulting, and even route planning in the aviation industry, James brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to the conversation. Listeners will get a comprehensive look into the complexities of last-mile logistics, especially in the B2B food distribution sector, and the unique challenges of maintaining a cold chain for perishable items. James shares his perspectives on the evolution of logistics technology, from telematics and IoT sensors to the role of AI and machine learning, and how they contribute to greater efficiency and real-time visibility. The discussion also touches on sustainability, with James explaining how California’s emission mandates are reshaping fleet management and the transition to alternative fuels. With a realistic lens, James highlights the operational challenges of aligning innovative technology with practical applications in logistics, emphasizing the importance of balancing cost, customer service, and the human element in successful tech adoption.

In this episode of the Semi-Related podcast, host Chris Torrence sits down with Lucas Schorer from Kestrel Insights to explore the intricacies of geofencing technology and its applications in trucking and logistics. They discuss Lucas's journey from studying mechanical engineering at Cal Poly to founding Kestrel Insights, where his team specializes in precision geofencing solutions. Lucas highlights the challenges and evolution of geofencing, the importance of accuracy to reduce false positives, and how Kestrel’s automated polygon geofences enhance operational efficiency. The conversation also touches on the industry's shift toward API integrations and the practical value of unbiased, automated data for resolving common logistics issues like detention times and tracking inaccuracies. This episode offers an in-depth look at the future of geofencing, how it complements new tracking technologies, and its potential for wider industry impact.

In this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Max Farrell, co-founder of WorkHound, to explore how companies can harness real-time feedback to improve employee retention and create a better workplace environment. Max shares the origins of WorkHound, which began in 2015 as a platform focused on employee engagement for frontline and distributed workers. The conversation dives into the challenges of high turnover in industries like trucking, where employees often feel unheard, and how WorkHound is helping businesses proactively address issues before they lead to attrition. Max explains the importance of making feedback accessible, the role of technology in identifying trends, and how anonymous feedback can prevent problems from escalating. He also touches on the broader potential of WorkHound in various industries, emphasizing that feedback is a key factor in building resilient, future-proof organizations. Join Chris and Max as they discuss the power of listening, the challenges of change management, and the crucial role that feedback plays in fostering a more engaged and satisfied workforce.

In this episode of the Semi-Related podcast, host Chris Torrence sits down with Spencer Ware, co-founder of Repowr, to dive deep into shared assets and their growing impact on the trucking industry. Spencer shares insights from his journey—from his early days in commercial insurance to the creation of Repowr, a platform revolutionizing the use of idle trailers by connecting fleets and owner-operators with underutilized assets from larger carriers. Tune in as Spencer discusses how Repowr provides flexible, on-demand trailer access, allowing small fleets to scale and larger companies to monetize idle assets. Learn about the challenges they faced in gaining buy-in from top fleets and the exciting future of trailer optimization in a rapidly evolving market. If you're interested in the future of fleet efficiency and industry collaboration, this episode is packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies to drive growth and reduce inefficiencies in logistics.

In this episode of Semi-Related, Chris Torrence sits down with Emily Phillips, president of the National Home Delivery Association and founder of eMission Advisory. With a rich background in logistics and sustainability, Emily shares her journey from industrial engineering to leading sustainability efforts at XPO, before launching her own company focused on decarbonizing the transportation sector. The conversation covers the evolution of final mile delivery, the role of sustainability in transportation, and the impact of consumer demand on home delivery trends. Emily also offers insights into the future of clean energy in logistics and discusses the real-world challenges of transitioning to electric fleets. Tune in to learn how sustainability is shaping the logistics landscape and how companies can adapt to the changing industry dynamics.

In this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Casey Larkin to dive into Casey's unique journey, from growing up under the influence of his father, a renowned industry leader, to carving out his own path in the freight and logistics space. They explore the complexities of the modern trucking industry, the challenges faced by smaller players, and the innovations Farelanes is bringing to the market to democratize pricing transparency and empower brokers and carriers alike. With a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights, this conversation sheds light on the evolving landscape of freight and the critical role that data and technology play in shaping its future. Whether you're a seasoned logistics professional or just curious about the industry, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the intersection of tradition and innovation in transportation. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that bridges the gap between old-school experience and cutting-edge solutions.

In this episode, Chris Torrence sits down with Tim Denoyer, VP and Senior Analyst at ACT Research, to explore key trends and challenges in the trucking and logistics industry. They dive into topics such as overcapacity, regulatory changes, electrification, and trailer pool optimization. Tim shares his expertise on the surprising challenges of implementing speed limiters, the critical role of telematics, and the financial pressures on small fleets and owner-operators. Gain valuable insights on leveraging data for better decision-making and the potential of new technologies to reshape the industry. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the current state and future directions of the transportation sector.

In this episode of "Semi-Related," host Chris Torrence sits down with Nate Johnson, founder of GLCS, to explore the evolving landscape of the trucking industry. From the integration of advanced technologies and AI to the impact of compliance and regulatory changes, Nate shares his extensive knowledge and insights on the challenges and opportunities facing modern trucking companies. The conversation delves into the importance of change management, the future role of planners and dispatchers, and the critical balance of people, processes, and technology. Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or new to logistics, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the trucking world. Tune in to hear about Nate's journey, his views on legacy systems vs. new technologies, and practical advice for staying competitive in a rapidly changing environment.

In this episode, Chris Torrence sits down with Cole Stevens, the Chief Strategy Officer of Stevens Trucking, to discuss the evolving role of a CSO and the rich history of Stevens Trucking. Starting as a family business in the oil field industry, Stevens Trucking has grown into a successful enterprise. Cole shares insights into their journey, attributing their success to a strong work ethic, adaptability, and meticulous planning. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by truck drivers, including distracted driving and increasing job demands. Cole and Chris emphasize the often underappreciated contributions of supply chain workers such as truck drivers, pilots, and warehouse staff. They highlight the critical role these individuals play in supporting the economy and the importance of acknowledging their hard work. The discussion also explores the role of technology in the trucking industry, the process of evaluating and adopting new technologies, and the significance of building strong relationships with technology vendors. Cole emphasizes the need for effective communication and customer discovery to address specific pain points and enhance the implementation of automation and AI. As the episode wraps up, Cole reflects on the patriotic nature of the trucking industry and expresses gratitude for the sacrifices made by truck drivers and military personnel.

Join Chris Torrence and Matthew Leffler, the 'Armchair Attorney,' as Leffler shares his journey from growing up in a trucking family to becoming a lawyer for the industry. Matthew reveals the challenges of working in insurance defense for catastrophic accidents, highlighting the underinsured and unsafe state of many commercial vehicles. He calls for increased insurance coverage and improved safety standards. In this episode, Matthew discusses the principal themes of transportation: labor, assets, maintenance, tires, and insurance. He explores the industry's future, focusing on the four super trends—connected, autonomous, shared, and electric—and the rise of autonomous trucks. Matthew delves into the complex issues of surveillance, technology's role in safety, and the future of higher education. He emphasizes critical thinking skills in a world driven by automation and advocates for optimism and proactive change in the industry. Don't miss this insightful discussion with Matthew Leffler on the future of trucking and supply chain innovation.

In this captivating episode of Semi-Related, Chris Torrence sits down with former NFL star Desmond Clark for an insightful and engaging conversation. They delve into the future of college sports conferences, exploring the impact of the transfer portal and NIL on collegiate sports. Desmond offers a unique perspective on the financial dynamics of college athletics and the intrinsic value of athletes beyond their performance on the field. Desmond also opens up about his journey after hanging up his cleats, sharing his determination to build a successful business and the challenges he faced in transitioning from the NFL to the corporate world. He sheds light on the advantages and obstacles of being a former football player in the business arena, emphasizing the importance of leveraging his personal brand and redefining his identity beyond the gridiron. Leadership takes center stage as Clark discusses his approach to inspiring and developing his team, highlighting the significance of building strong relationships and the power of face-to-face interactions. He reflects on how the hurdles he's overcome have molded him into a resilient and adaptable leader, expressing gratitude for the experiences that have shaped his path. Join us for a thought-provoking episode filled with valuable insights, as Desmond Clark shares his journey from NFL fame to business success and the lessons learned along the way. 4o

Candor Expedite CEO and Founder Nicole Glenn sits down with Optym Chief Strategy Officer Chris Torrence for an all-encompassing discussion on Nicole's entrance into logistics, personal and team growth, and reflections on the lessons learned along the way.

Shannon Breen, CEO of FreightVana, shares his journey to entering the trucking and logistics industry, emphasizing the value of developing soft skills, authenticity, and connecting with people. With Optym Chief Strategy Officer Chris Torrence, Breen discusses the decision to start FreightVana and the challenges and progress the company has made in a short time. He also introduces the concept of power-only trailer pool networks as a differentiating approach in the industry. While they acknowledge the importance of live load and unload operations in certain segments, they discuss how drop and hook networks, and shared trailer pools are the future of the industry. Chapters 0:00 – Introduction and Connection at Manifest 3:04 – The Value of Authentic Conversations at Conferences 6:04 – The Challenges of Corporate Culture and the Appeal of Startups 10:17 – The Importance of Soft Skills and Real-Life Experience 16:09 – Transitioning to Freight Vana 28:10 – The Vision for Power Only Trailer Pool Networks 29:15 – Trailer Pools and Efficiency 30:43 – Opportunity at Swift 31:40 – Building FreightVana 36:26 – Proud Accomplishments 39:18 – The Importance of Trailers 41:42 – The Future of Freight 46:29 – Challenges of Power Only and Trailer Pools 49:46 – The Importance of Team and Culture 53:56 – Balancing Work and Personal Life 55:20 – Maintaining Relationships and Connections Find more Semi-Related episodes: Semi-Related Podcast (optym.com)

Jacob Eischen and Dave Renfrew, partner at Recruit-Hire-Retain, provide valuable advice on building a recruitment machine and optimizing the onboarding process. Renfrew reflects on his extensive experience in the trucking and logistics industry, sharing insights on building a trucking company, hiring thousands of drivers, and understanding the market and recruitment strategies. Plus, he emphasizes the importance of building trust with drivers and implementing retention programs, which cross silos within organizations. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction 0:33 – About Recruit-Hire-Retain 2:04 – Dave's Background in Trucking and Logistics 7:10 – Lessons Learned from Building a Trucking Company and Hiring Thousands of Drivers 11:51 – Understanding the Market and Recruitment Strategies 16:55 – Different Types of Trucking Positions and Recruitment Challenges 19:42 – Retention Strategies and Building Trust with Drivers 23:04 – Implementing Recruitment and Retention Programs 27:12 – Breaking Down Silos and Collaboration 30:18 – Building a Recruitment Machine 36:10 – Analyzing Recruitment KPIs and Process 40:36 – The Importance of Onboarding and Personalization 42:32 – The Future of Trucking 47:33 – Collaboration and Expertise 48:24 – Conclusion

Thomas Wasson shares his journey in the transportation and logistics industry, starting from his entry-level role as a dispatcher to his current position as Enterprise Trucking Carrier Expert at FreightWaves with Jacob Eischen on another episode of the Semi-Related Podcast. Wasson discusses the challenges and lessons he learned along the way, including the importance of managing relationships, balancing emotional and analytical skills, and prioritizing tasks. Thomas also highlights the significance of understanding the needs of drivers and customers, as well as the value of building trust and maintaining open communication within the organization and more. Takeaways • Building strong relationships and effective communication are crucial in the transportation and logistics industry. • Balancing emotional and analytical skills is essential for success in roles such as load planning and network design. • Understanding the needs of drivers and customers is key to making informed decisions and providing excellent service. • Managing stress and prioritizing tasks are important skills for navigating the fast-paced and demanding nature of the industry. • Transitioning to a brokerage role requires building relationships and adapting to the fast-paced environment. • Working at a small carrier provides a more personal connection with drivers and a deeper understanding of the industry. • Transitioning to a media role involves learning new skills, such as writing and podcasting, and finding your unique voice. • Analyzing market rates and providing commentary allows for a deeper understanding of industry trends and insights. • Freight analysts play a crucial role in providing information and education about the trucking industry.   Chapters 0:00 – Introduction and Background 1:22 – Starting in Trucking Operations 5:21 – The Challenges of Trucking Operations 7:00 – Moving Up in the Organization 10:25 – Transitioning to Load Planning 12:39 – Becoming a Freight Analyst 16:53 – Truckload Network Design 23:29 – Balancing Emotional and Analytical Skills 33:10 – Selling Tough Loads and Building Trust 38:15 – Managing Stress and Prioritizing 40:54 – The Importance of Communication with Drivers 43:27 – Transitioning to a Brokerage Role 55:54 – Working at a Small Carrier 01:11:49 – Transitioning to a Media Role 01:20:24 – Analyzing Market Rates and Providing Commentary 01:21:18 – The Role of a Freight Analyst 01:27:28 – Current Market Trends 01:35:37 – Bold Predictions for the Future of Trucking

Summary In this episode, Jacob Eischen interviews Amanda Pearson, the profitability program facilitator for the TCA. They discuss the benchmarking program and how it helps carriers improve their operations and profitability. Amanda explains the structure and meetings of the groups, highlighting the importance of trust and collaboration among members. She shares success stories and learnings from the program, including how carriers have identified and addressed issues in their operations. Amanda also discusses the key traits of high-performing carriers and offers tips for successful growth. The conversation covers topics such as innovation, market cycles, and hot button issues in the industry. Amanda provides insights into the main KPIs used in the program and how carriers can join and benefit from it. Takeaways The profitability program offered by TCA helps carriers improve their operations and profitability through benchmarking and best practice sharing. Trust and collaboration are key in the program, as carriers openly share their successes, failures, and ideas with each other. The program has helped carriers address issues and make improvements in areas such as driver pay, maintenance, and growth strategies. High-performing carriers have a strong understanding of their values, culture, and goals, and align their departments and KPIs accordingly. The program fosters innovation in the industry, with carriers sharing cutting-edge technologies and ideas. Market cycles and regulatory changes are ongoing challenges in the industry, and the program helps carriers navigate and learn from these changes. Carriers interested in joining the program can reach out to TCA and go through a vetting process to ensure a good fit with existing groups. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Weather 00:42 – Amanda's Role and Program Overview 02:18 – Structure and Meetings of the Groups 04:38 – Building Trust and Collaboration 06:09 – Amanda's Background and Passion for the Program 09:23 – Friendliness and Support in the Trucking Community 11:12 – Typical Meeting Structure and Topics 14:06 – Success Stories and Learnings from the Program 19:03 – Remedying Issues and Managing Change 20:44 – Key Traits of High-Performing Carriers 22:28 – Tips for Successful Growth 25:12 – Balancing Unique Niche and Best Practices 27:20 – Innovation and Technology in the Industry 29:43 – Navigating Market Cycles and Lessons Learned 31:53 – Finding and Joining the Program 34:31 – Nurturing Diversity in the Groups 36:08 – Amanda's Experience and its Impact 38:05 – Hot Button Issues in the Industry 40:46 – Main KPIs and Starting Point for New Carriers 43:52 – Bold Prediction for the Future of Trucking 46:04 – How to Join the Program 47:25 – Conclusion

In this episode, Jacob Eischen interviews Chris Thomas, also known as the Indie Trucker. They discuss Chris's background in trucking and his involvement in the freight community. Chris shares his experiences and insights on broker-carrier relationships, being the voice of the driver, and passing on knowledge to the next generation. They also touch on topics such as professionalism in customer interactions, understanding market trends, and the future of trucking, including the potential impact of autonomous trucks. Takeaways Building relationships and being a positive voice in the trucking industry is important. Trucking is a challenging industry that requires patience, professionalism, and continuous learning. There is a need for better communication and understanding between drivers and dispatchers. The future of trucking will involve advancements in technology, such as autonomous trucks, but human drivers will still play a crucial role. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Background 03:09 – Involvement in the FreightX Community 08:32 – Being the Voice of the Driver 09:01 – Broker-Carrier Relationships 10:31 – Passing on Knowledge and Experience 17:38 – Advice for New Truckers 19:19 – Professionalism and Customer Interactions 20:53 – Understanding the Market and Trends 25:36 – The Next Generation of Trucking 28:12 – Working with Dispatch and Internal Relationships 31:50 – Autonomous Trucks and the Future of Trucking 35:24 – Bold Prediction for the Future of Trucking

Summary In this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, Tony Eiermann shares his experience and insights in fleet management. Eiermann also explains how he became an asset manager and the challenges and opportunities that came with it. He highlights the importance of learning and mentoring in the trucking industry. Tony then talks about managing a large fleet and maximizing the life of assets. He emphasizes the role of data and communication in fleet management and the need for strong relationships for success. Takeaways Fleet management often involves transitioning from other roles within a company. Learning and mentoring are crucial for success in fleet management. Maximizing the life of assets and optimizing their usage is a key aspect of fleet management. Effective communication and data analysis are essential in fleet management.

President and COO Phil Wilt of American Central Transport, a six-time recipient of the Best Fleet to Drive For award, delves into the essentials of constructing an award-winning driver support system.

Join Curtis Garrett on the Semi-Related Podcast by Optym as he dives into the LTL sector's latest trends, challenges and more.

Mark Manera, the Founder & CEO of Supply Chain Fitness, discusses truck driver health with Jacob Eischen on the Semi-Related podcast.

Todd Haselhorst, the CEO and Founder of HEALE Labs discusses IoT and tokenization’s role in revolutionizing logistics.

Conversion Interactive Agency’s Priscilla Peters and PDA’s Scott Dismuke discuss driver recruitment and retention in the trucking industry.

Conversion Interactive Agency’s Priscilla Peters and PDA’s Scott Dismuke discuss driver recruitment and retention in the trucking industry.

WeatherOptics’ Scott Pecoriello offers insights on how accurate weather forecasting can benefit route optimization in logistics.

Wreath’s Across America’s Courtney George discusses women in trucking, and honoring veterans on the Semi-Related podcast.

Wreath’s Across America’s Courtney George discusses women in trucking, and honoring veterans on the Semi-Related podcast.

DAT Freight and Analytics' Dean Croke joins the conversation on Semi-Related to discuss the seasonality of trucking and its impact on truckers.

Optym’s Chris Torrence discusses navigating the supply chain with logistics strategic advisor Bart De Muynck on Semi-Related.

Todd Florence, CIO of Estes Express Lines, joins Semi-Related’s Chris Torrence to discuss making LTL shipping frictionless.

Chris Torrence and Jeff Graan discuss key trends in logistics and freight on this episode of Semi-Related.