Drive

No one is just a number, and no one exemplifies this more than the dedicated transportation professionals behind Wreaths Across America.

In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are again joined by Courtney George, Director of Transportation and Industry Relations for Wreaths Across America, a non-profit organization committed to honoring and remembering veterans through the laying of wreaths during the holiday season, to discuss the company’s mission.

Courtney shares the logistics and monumental efforts behind the initiative, highlighting the contributions of the trucking industry, the emotional stories that fuel their mission, and the growing community of volunteers, donors, and industry partners. She also discusses touching anecdotes, logistical challenges, and the joy of building a family-like community, ensuring that each veteran’s legacy is honored and remembered.

Listen to learn how you can be a part of this noble cause, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. This episode is a tribute to the power of collaboration, respect, and remembrance.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The heartfelt origins and mission of Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring veterans through the placement of wreaths on their graves

• The essential role the trucking industry plays in ensuring wreaths reach their destinations, with countless truckers and companies volunteering their time and resources

• Personal stories and experiences that emphasize the emotional impact of the organization's work on both the volunteers and the families of the veterans they honor.

Resources:

Wreaths Across America

Courtney George’s LinkedIn

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website

HandledNow’s Facebook page

Zac’s LinkedIn

Chelsea’s LinkedIn

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Welcome to Drive Podcast

(06:21) Ensuring quality and fostering friendships in the trucking industry

(07:00) Spending Thanksgiving together as a new family

(13:11) Father's load supports community, family, and kindness

(16:09) The Holiday begins with Wreaths Across America tradition

(19:45) Supportive trucking industry solves problems collaboratively

(22:37) Prompt confirmation for hauling loads and better planning

(24:36) Honor loved ones through Wreaths Across America website

We all know that the trucking industry is male-dominated. But nothing beats a badass woman who completely transformed her life and now drives the world’s largest trucks.

In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are joined by Kathy Tuccaro, a woman who beat all odds in a male-dominated field to become a true industry icon. 

Kathy shared her astonishing life story in this episode, from overcoming severe trauma and homelessness to driving the world's largest trucks. She also shares her passion for giving back through initiatives like “Operation Hydration” and the powerful impact of using one’s voice to break the chains of shame and guilt. Plus, get an inside look at her unique brand, "Designer Miner," and hear how she balances her tough-as-nails job with a creative side.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Kathy Tuccaro's inspiring journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming a successful heavy equipment operator and motivational speaker.

• Kathy’s efforts in giving back to the community, including founding "Operation Hydration" to assist the homeless and creating educational resources for young girls and kids.

• The significance of using one's voice to combat shame and guilt and the transformative power of sharing personal stories to inspire and empower others.

Resources:

Woman Road Warriors

Kathy Tuccaro’s LinkedIn

Get Kathy’s book here

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website

HandledNow’s Facebook page

Zac’s LinkedIn

Chelsea’s LinkedIn

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Welcome to Drive Podcast

(08:47) Kathy’s jaw-dropping story from her younger years

(12:18) Psych doctor advises addressing abuse and trauma

(18:00) Midlife career change led to an unexpected path

(21:51) How Kathy overcame doubt to succeed in heavy equipment operating

(37:50) Empowering kids against abuse

(48:44) Kathy’s book helped spread mental health awareness

(50:27) Being authentic online can change industry narratives

(55:22) How Kathy finds rest and play

The world of lease purchase programs can be tricky for truck drivers. Think about it… understanding the financial and operational aspects of leasing is similar to maneuvering a fully loaded rig through unpredictable terrain.

In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are again joined by Brad Hackett, Director of Recruiting and Retention for C1 Transportation and a veteran with 15 years of trucking experience, to discuss the complexities of lease purchase arrangements.

Brad shares the importance of building financial reserves before diving into lease purchase agreements, the impact of market fluctuations, and offers crucial tips on contract transparency and proper financial planning. He also emphasizes the need for honest recruiting practices, the challenges lease purchase drivers may face in 2024, and the different mindsets required for company drivers versus lease purchase drivers aiming for an owner-operator mindset.

Listen to learn why research, proactive planning, and understanding industry dynamics are essential for success in lease purchase programs.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why Brad advises against immediately jumping into a lease purchase program without first building financial reserves for handling unforeseen expenses and emergencies

• The importance of understanding tax laws and proper financial planning essential for success in lease purchase programs.

• The various red flags and important considerations, such as pre buyout terms, equipment value, and transparency, when evaluating lease purchase contracts.

• The challenging market conditions facing lease purchase drivers in 2024 and the need for thorough financial commitment evaluation and market research before embarking on a lease purchase arrangement

Resources:

C1 Transportation

Brad Hackett’s LinkedIn

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website

HandledNow’s Facebook page

Zac’s LinkedIn

Chelsea’s LinkedIn

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Welcome to Drive Podcast

(05:11) Panel seeks expert on lease purchase insight

(09:26) Building financial cushion is key for success

(12:21) Understand lease agreements before signing a contract

(16:35) Benefits and drawbacks of leasing used trucks

(18:16) Success long term is small but impactful

(26:19) Understanding the different approaches to freight partnership

(29:54) Recruiting focuses on positive, not negative aspects

(32:25) Tough market for lease drivers in 2024

(35:46) Impact of lease purchase in trucking industry

(37:49) Truck drivers' attitudes affect industry satisfaction

Have you ever considered switching your job to becoming a trucker? What’s holding you back?

In this Road Reflection episode, guest Bill Babcock, a part-time trucker, shares his journey from being in landscape, to taking the leap to becoming a trucker. Did he regret it? Not at all.  

Bill shares the impact that truck driving has had on his life, his favorite on-the-road stories, and what it’s like to balance driving with other responsibilities. he also touches on the camaraderie within the trucking community, how to navigate changing regulations, and tips for younger generations contemplating a career in trucking. 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Bill Babcock's transition from the landscape business to part-time truck driving and how it has broadened his perspectives

• Insights into the importance of safety and mental health considerations for truck drivers from Bill's experiences and advice

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com

HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 

Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ 

Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ 

Jump into the conversation:

00:59 - Welcome to Road Reflections with Bill Babcock

05:25 Diverse truck drivers come from all over

09:28 Encouraging career change to truck driving profession

11:59 CB radio's usage has changed over time

14:50 Concerns about driverless trucks, improving truck technology

17:55 Emphasizing safe driving for well-maintained equipment

21:10 Closing

Truck drivers need to make healthy lifestyle choices to prevent health-related career setbacks. Think about it… preventative maintenance of physical and mental health is similar to the upkeep of trucking equipment. 

In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are joined by Dr. Mark Manera, CEO and Founder of Offshift, to discuss the importance of healthy lifestyles on the road.

Dr. Mark shares why small, consistent changes like increasing your water intake and avoiding high-calorie drinks can make a world of difference in your career experience, the importance of regular medical check-ups, and practical ways to stay active while on the road.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Strategies for truck drivers to make healthier lifestyle choices on the road

• The importance of preventative maintenance for truck drivers' physical and mental health

• Insights into the trucking industry's evolving focus on driver-centric policies and regulations

• The challenges and solutions for staying active and eating healthy while on the road, supported by community involvement and social media engagement

Resources:

Offshift

Dr. Mark Manera’s LinkedIn

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website

HandledNow’s Facebook page

Zac’s LinkedIn

Chelsea’s LinkedIn

Jump into the conversation:

03:52 Embracing off-shift mentality for personal growth

09:03 Trucking attracts diverse and interesting individuals

09:56 Positive impact on driver health shared online

18:46 Trucking struggles

20:40 Choose zero-calorie drinks and prioritize physical activity

25:30 Trucking companies neglect driver health

26:53 Focus on small, consistent changes for success

30:48 Balancing act of healthy eating and indulgence

32:58 Reduced soda intake by switching to alternatives

37:12 Driver-specific solutions are crucial for engagement

46:03 Find ways to connect with others creatively

46:52 Reconnect with people, be vulnerable, open up

50:15 Encouraging vulnerability and empathy in management levels

The trucking industry is constantly changing, but what’s life like for a new-to-the-business trucker? 

Welcome to the first Road Reflection episode, where we speak with truck drivers on the road. Our guest is Andrew Becker, a truck driver based in Indianapolis, IN, who became a truck driver within the last five years and transitioned from the landscaping business to the logistics world alongside his family.

Andrew shares his experiences, from surviving a near-fatal load mishap that taught him invaluable lessons about road safety to the challenges and triumphs of starting a trucking business from scratch. He also provides motivational tips on using downtime efficiently and even reveals his unique hobby of learning German on the go.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Andrew’s experience transitioning from a family landscaping business to the logistics industry highlights both the challenges and successes encountered on the way

• How Andrew uses downtime effectively, such as learning a new language, to make the most of wait periods during his trucking job

Resources:

Compass Carriers: https://www.compass-carriers.com/ 

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com

HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 

Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ 

Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ 

Jump into the conversation:

00:59 - Welcome to Road Reflections

01:32 - Introduction to Andrew and how he got into trucking

02:50 - The equipment Andrew started with in 2019

04:58 - His most memorable experience on the road

06:09 - The biggest challenge Andrew experienced when entering the trucking industry

09:14 - Advice for those who are starting in the trucking industry

12:31 - Challenges Andrew foresees in the future of trucking

14:05 - What Andrew loves the most about being a truck driver

Curious about what it really takes to start a trucking career? This episode of Drive pulls back the curtain on essential things you need to know as a first-year truck driver. This is your go-to guide for navigating the trucking industry’s many peaks and valleys, and for finding success behind the wheel.

Joining us is Sean Horton with JobsinLogistics.com, a seasoned recruiter with a deep understanding of trucking operations, and Brad Hackett at C1 Transportation, an expert in driver support and recruitment. Together, they discuss finding the right fit and navigating your first year, the financial and emotional realities of the trucking lifestyle, how to set yourself apart as a professional candidate, and more.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• Finding the Right Fit and Navigating Your First Year:  How do you choose the best carrier for your needs, especially if you’re just starting out? The guests cover everything from realistic expectations, job stability, and the importance of a strong support system to help you hit the ground running.

• The Critical Role of Mental and Physical Health on the Road: Learn about the often-overlooked connection between your mental and physical well-being when you're out on the road, focusing on the importance of a structured support system, educating your loved ones about trucking demands, and planning for long-term mental wellness.

• Leveraging Social Media and Real Stories for Career Growth: How to use social media and online communities to connect with mentors and experienced drivers. Authenticity is key; find out how real driver stories and honest company cultures can guide you to make informed decisions and find career opportunities that match your aspirations.

Resources:

Brad Hackett’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-hackett/ 

More about C1 Transportation: https://c1transportation.com/ 

Sean Horton’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanhorton1/ 

More about JobsinLogistics.com: https://www.jobsinlogistics.com/ 

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com

HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 

Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ 

Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ 

Jump into the conversation:

00:00 Introduction to Drive with hosts Chelsea Faulkner and Zac Elsts

05:53 Creating support systems for new CDL drivers.

09:21 Marketing struggles in the trucking industry.

13:01 Trucking industry offers diverse experiences and stories.

15:33 Understanding solid expectations setting yourself up for success.

17:05 Unfulfilled promises led to frequent job changes.

21:09 Cost of transitioning jobs for truck drivers.

24:49 Research training program, mentorship, OTR lifestyle impact

29:17 Long-term perspective needed in the trucking industry.

32:08 Prioritize safety and financial caution in trucking.

34:37 Social media connects helps find career direction.

38:00 Facebook groups offer valuable support for drivers.

41:28 Limited opportunities for student drivers, emphasis on experience.

44:35 High marketing spending and industry insight discussed.

50:37 Address mental health in transitioning to trucking.

51:34 Prepare loved ones for extended time away.

55:27 New driver advised on job search criteria.

Your mental health as a trucker is just as important as your physical health behind the wheel, but it often gets overlooked or pushed aside due to shame, fear, and a litany of other emotions that we often want to hide. 

As the first episode of Season 5, we could not have come out of the gate with a more important topic. Zac and Chelsea speak with Scott Busby, Director of Admissions at Praesum Healthcare, a leader in mental health and drug & alcohol treatment services along the East Coast. 

They discuss Praesum's programs that cater directly to truckers, including an intricate support system in person and online, the mental health challenges truck drivers face, and the interconnection between substance abuse and mental health. Scott shares some real-life stories from truckers and comments on the importance of employer support.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The unique mental health challenges truck drivers face and the specialized resources available to help

• How interconnected the nature of substance abuse and mental health is, how it illustrates how drivers can fall into the trap of addiction and what steps they can take to recover

• The importance of understanding medication effects and the need for better education to prevent accidental violations

• Employer support and the steps you can take to ensure you get the help you need

Resources:

Praesum Healthcare: https://www.praesumhealthcare.com/ 

Scott Busby’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-busby-6a9044bb/ 

Scott Busby’s email: [email protected] 

Reach Scott via phone: 561-884-3869

Safe Harbor Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/safeharbormentalhealthsupportnetwork 

Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow:

HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com

HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 

Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ 

Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ 

Jump into the conversation:

00:00 Welcome to Drive Season Five

01:00 Introduction to Scott Busby, Praesum Healthcare

07:02 Truck drivers' unique challenges and personal reflection

09:21 Providing comprehensive mental health care with dignity

13:59 Normalize second chances, support for employees' well-being

18:21 Supportive community providing mental health education

22:56 Perception of truck driving and changing attitudes

28:42 Media diversity is needed to avoid bias

30:09 Diverse treatment options for addiction recovery available

35:36 Stigma around mental health is improving

36:42 Encouraging conversation and support for mental health

40:57 Adapting to mental health treatment is challenging

44:14 Dealing with safety-sensitive issues in employment

48:26 Medical industry lacks education for medication effects

The world of trucking never stands still. Whether charging ahead at full speed or reversing to correct a missed turn, those wheels keep turning. Drive by HandledNow is here to accompany you on that journey, no matter how many miles lie ahead. 

Join Zac Elsts and his co-host, Chelsea Faulkner, for engaging in industry discussions that echo the classic CB radio chats of the past. Drive brings together trucking professionals from behind the desk and the wheel to provide valuable insights into the topics that matter most to today's drivers. Tune in during your next pre-trip and listen to conversations that understand your journey is as crucial as the destination. We’d love to be a part of it.

There are no bigger hearts than those of truckers. This year marks the 35th year of the Mother’s Day Make-A-Wish Convoy through Susquehanna Valley, and Convoy Committee Co-Chair Terry Finch speaks with Zac and Chelsea to mark this milestone year.

Terry helps steer the largest truck convoy east of the Mississippi where they team up with truckers to fulfill wishes for kids battling life-threatening illnesses. Inserting incredible community spirit, this convoy has a million-dollar mission. Terry discusses the touching stories behind the impetus of the convoy,  the event's festive activities, and how every mile you drive contributes more than just cargo—it delivers hope.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Stories that showcase the incredible charitable spirit of the trucking community, proving that the road is about more than just logistics and deliveries. 

• How to participate to help The Make-A-Wish convoy reach its goal of one million dollars.  

• The ripple effect of the convoy experience and how a legacy has been created to impact the children and families involved. 

Resources:

Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Susquehanna Valley

Link to Register

Link to Donate