This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by ops managers Nick Dulaney and Jason Webb to review Oakley Trucking’s milestones and challenges in 2025 and look ahead to 2026. Topics include overcoming a tough freight market, the impact of tariffs, equipment and trailer updates, and maintaining high safety and service standards. The discussion highlights proactive strategies for customer retention, operational improvements using data and AI, fostering company culture, annual bonuses, and the significance of the new St. Louis terminal. Key takeaways are Oakley’s commitment to its drivers, adaptability in changing markets, positive outlooks for growth and efficiency in 2026, and so much more. 

Key topics in today’s conversation include:

• Welcome to New Episodes for 2026 (0:52)
• Studio Updates and Appreciation for Team and Sponsors (2:16)
• Reflecting on 2025 Freight Market Challenges and Customer Relations (6:16)
• Proactive Freight Strategies and New Customer Opportunities (8:33)
• Impact of Tariffs on the Scrap Industry and Operations (10:26)
• Safety Initiatives and Driver Performance Improvements (13:47)
• Trailer Turnover Costs and Lessons Learned (16:57)
• Operational Efficiency, Data Reporting, and Role of Technology (21:09)
• Company Culture, Camaraderie, and Remembering Drivers (23:50)
• Annual Bonuses, Equipment, and Trailer Purchases and Sales (25:21)
• Podcast Success, Guest Highlights, and Retirements (28:37)
• Looking Ahead: Expanding Operations and the New St. Louis Terminal (32:05)
• Recruiting, Retention, and Maintaining High Standards (35:19)
• The Role of English Proficiency in Industry Changes (39:18)
• Owning Service and Company Reputation in 2026 (40:13)
• Holiday Stories and Family Reflections (42:02)
• Parting Thoughts and Optimism for 2026 (43:28)

Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com.

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