In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Garrett Steenblik, VP of Business Development at TRXCKWRLD and founder of Trucker’s Body Shop. 
Join them as they explore:

• Garrett’s incredible 200-pound weight loss journey, from struggling at 360 lbs to running on his 30-minute breaks
• How witnessing a fellow trucker’s health crisis sparked the creation of Trucker's Body Shop
• The challenges of staying healthy on the road and the structured approach that led to his transformation
• The evolution of Trucker's Body Shop into a healthcare provider offering telehealth, prescription medication services, and urgent care kits for drivers
• The rise of TRXCKWRLD, a 665,000-strong trucking community, and its mission to unify truckers and drive industry change
• The importance of mindset in achieving personal and professional transformation

Garrett Steenblik is an entrepreneur, health advocate, and industry innovator. After losing 200 lbs while working as a team truck driver, he founded Trucker's Body Shop, a company providing accessible healthcare solutions to truck drivers. He is also the VP of Business Development at TRXCKWRLD, where he helps lead a 665,000-member trucking community focused on advocacy and industry improvement. In addition, he operates a cost-plus freight brokerage with FreightFlex, specializing in LTL, FTL, drayage, and government freight. His mission is to provide truckers with the tools, resources, and support they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Episode Highlights:
[00:02:28 - 00:09:04] Garrett describes how meeting his wife led him to abandon a full scholarship in nuclear physics to pursue team truck driving. Despite having the opportunity to pursue any degree he wanted, he chose trucking because it offered both physical and financial freedom while allowing him to stay together with his wife. Garrett's decision showcased how personal relationships can dramatically alter career trajectories and life paths.It also highlights the importance of aligning one's career with personal priorities and values. 
[00:09:04 - 00:11:11] Garrett shares a pivotal moment of self-realization when he finds himself in a truck stop bathroom at 360 lbs, suffering from severe acid reflux. It was at that moment he understood that while he appreciated many aspects of his life, he did not truly love himself. This turning point became the catalyst for his transformation, driving him to take control of his health and reshape his future. What seemed like rock bottom ultimately laid the foundation for lasting change, proving that even the hardest moments can spark a powerful new beginning.
[00:11:11 - 00:28:34] First Steps to Transformation. Garrett unpacks the initial steps that helped him begin his weight loss journey. Determined to make a change, he started running during his 30-minute breaks and cut soda from his diet, small but effective adjustments. Within the first week, he lost 5 lbs, reinforcing his belief that consistency was key. Garrett's experience highlights how even with the demands of trucking, meaningful progress is possible through simple, daily choices.
[00:28:34 - 00:37:13] Witnessing a fellow truck driver collapse at a fuel station was a pivotal moment for Garrett. Garrett explored the deeper issues truckers face regarding their health and well-being, recognizing the urgent need for solutions tailored to their demanding lifestyle. Seeing firsthand how poor health was affecting drivers, he felt compelled to take action. This led to the creation of Trucker's Body Shop, an initiative aimed at providing truckers with access to healthcare solutions tailored to their lifestyle. He discusses how the program offers telehealth services, prescription delivery, and urgent care kits, ensuring drivers can prioritize their well-being while staying on the road. By addressing key health challenges in the industry, Trucker's Body Shop empowers drivers to take control of their health with practical, accessible solutions.
[00:37:13 - 00:46:32] Garrett dives into his involvement with TRXCKWRLD, a massive online community with 665,000 members generating 7 million impressions weekly. He highlights how the platform is unifying truckers and driving industry-wide change through grassroots advocacy and technology. By leveraging its growing influence, TRXCKWRLD is developing an app that will provide essential services while supporting truckers with trackable initiatives. The initiative aims to strengthen the trucking community by fostering collaboration and giving drivers a stronger voice in shaping the industry’s future.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Robert Bain, Senior Consultant & Director of Partnership at  GLCS, Inc.
Join them as they explore:

• Robert’s journey from semi-professional soccer player to logistics industry leader
• The role and importance of leveraging technology in logistics
• The creation of the Broker Carrier Summit 
• the Three Pillars to Success, Insights on operational success.
• The transition to freight as a sustainable and impactful career path
• Robert’s achievements in powerlifting, including squatting over 1,000 pounds

Robert Bain is a Senior Consultant & Director of Partnership at  GLCS, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in optimizing technology and operations in the freight industry. His nearly two decades of experience include leadership roles at Uber Freight and QuadGraphics, demonstrating his expertise in building efficient logistics operations. With a background spanning fleet management to brokerage operations, Robert brings a comprehensive understanding of the freight industry's operational needs and technological challenges.

Episode Highlights:
[00:06:37 - 10:00]  Robert shares how being an underdog in high school soccer shaped his resilience and determination, qualities he carried into his logistics career. He reflects on the challenges of competing in a less recognized soccer program and how they instilled a strong work ethic and competitive spirit. “Pressure is a privilege. So few people ever get the chance to feel that,”.
[00:22:41 - 27:00] Three Pillars of Operations, Robert introduces the foundational principles of operational success: Extreme Ownership, Customer Experience, and Free Cash Flow. He highlights how these elements are interconnected, creating a flywheel of continuous improvement. Extreme Ownership emphasizes taking full responsibility for outcomes and processes, fostering accountability and proactive problem-solving. Customer Experience focuses on ensuring customers feel valued and respected, as their perception directly impacts loyalty and payment consistency. Free Cash Flow Points out the importance of maintaining financial health to sustain operations and reinvest in growth. Together, these pillars create a self-reinforcing system where improvements in one area drive success across the others, ensuring long-term operational excellence.
[00:27:09] Building the Broker Carrier Summit, Robert recounts the inception and growth of the Broker Carrier Summit, a unique event designed to foster genuine connections between brokers and carriers. Starting with just 35 attendees at its first gathering, the summit rapidly expanded to nearly 500 participants in only 18 months, showcasing the logistics industry's hunger for collaboration and relationship-building. He highlights the summit’s mission to bridge gaps and address shared challenges in the broker-carrier dynamic, emphasizing the importance of trust and partnership in driving industry success. Robert’s vision for the event reflects his commitment to creating a community where businesses can thrive together through meaningful connections.
[00:27:09 - 36:00] Robert discusses his journey as a powerlifter, highlighting the discipline and mindset required to achieve extraordinary feats, like squatting over 1,000 pounds. He reflects on the dedication, perseverance, and resilience needed to pursue such demanding goals, drawing parallels between powerlifting and his professional life. “I don’t want to die with the music inside me still,” he shares, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges and pushing personal boundaries. Robert’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of how passion and determination can drive success in both physical and professional endeavors.
[00:39:32 - 41:00] Robert and Brent reflect on the key takeaways from the episode, highlighting the importance of humility, perseverance, and building genuine relationships. Robert explains how staying grounded and appreciating the journey along with the people who support you, is vital to achieving lasting success. He encourages listeners to embrace their potential, seize opportunities, and use every challenge as a stepping stone for growth. These reflections provide a thoughtful conclusion to an episode filled with practical advice and inspiring stories.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, Brent Hutto is joined by Kristy Knichel, President and CEO of Knichel Logistics.
Join them as they explore:

• Kristy’s early days running pizza shops and her first steps into logistics.
• How working with her father taught her invaluable lessons about business, leadership, and resilience.
• The challenges of navigating family dynamics in a business setting and how Kristy overcame them to assume leadership.
• The bold decisions Kristy made to secure the future of the company, including managing finances, ensuring sustainable growth, and maintaining team morale.
• Kristy’s leadership philosophy, focusing on treating employees with respect and fostering a positive workplace culture.
• The remarkable transformation of Knichel Logistics, growing to 55 employees and nearly $100M in revenue under Kristy’s leadership.
• How Kristy’s independence, problem-solving mindset, and perseverance shaped her journey to becoming a respected industry leader.

Kristy Knichel is the President and CEO of Knichel Logistics, a leading intermodal marketing company specializing in freight transportation solutions. A second-generation logistics professional, she co-founded the company in 2003 with her father and siblings. Since assuming leadership in 2007, she has grown the business from $2 million in revenue to nearly $100 million, establishing it as a top provider in the logistics industry. Known for her disciplined leadership and collaborative approach, Kristy fosters a positive workplace culture where employees are valued and empowered. She was the inaugural recipient of the Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award from the Women in Trucking Association, recognizing her impact on the industry and her role as a trailblazer in a male-dominated field.

Episode Highlights:

[00:02:00 – 00:09:00] Kristy Knichel reflects on her early days managing pizza shops, where she worked long hours and learned the value of perseverance and problem-solving. She recounts how these experiences laid the groundwork for her eventual transition into logistics, a path inspired by her father’s guidance and encouragement. Kristy highlights how her work ethic and determination, developed during these formative years, prepared her for the challenges of the logistics industry.
[00:16:00 – 00:25:00] Kristy opens up about the complexities of working alongside her father in a family-owned business. She explains the challenges of adapting to his 'militant' leadership style and the pressure to meet high expectations. Despite their differing approaches, which created unique challenges, Kristy shares how she used these experiences to develop her own leadership style, emphasizing resilience, discipline, and a commitment to fostering trust and respect within the company
[00:29:00 – 00:38:00] Kristy discusses her transition to CEO, describing the Key moments that defined her leadership journey. From managing cash flow during a financial crisis to implementing processes that ensured sustainable growth, she explains how bold decision-making helped transform Knichel Logistics into a thriving $100M business. Kristy also emphasizes her efforts to build a positive workplace culture that values employee contributions and prioritizes collaboration.
[00:40:00 – 00:47:00] Kristy reflects on the invaluable lessons she learned from her father and how they continue to influence her leadership style. She discusses the importance of maintaining a balance between personal values and professional ambitions, offering advice to aspiring leaders on resilience and adaptability. Kristy’s reflections highlight her dedication to creating a legacy rooted in respect, growth, and a commitment to empowering her team.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Chris Burroughs, the new President and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), 
Join them as they explore:

• Chris’s unique journey from growing up in a political family to leading TIA
• The importance of building relationships with Congress and within the industry
• The alarming rise of fraud in transportation, with a staggering 600% increase in incidents
• Tackling nuclear verdicts and their impact on insurance costs for brokers and carriers
• The need for reform in the carrier safety rating system, with 92% of trucks unrated
• The ongoing debate around broker transparency and its implications for small businesses
• Chris’s vision for TIA, focusing on advocacy and member engagement

Chris Burroughs is the President and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), a leading organization representing third-party logistics companies. With 13 years at TIA, he previously led government affairs, focusing on legislative and regulatory initiatives. His background includes roles in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Twenty-First Century Group, giving him a deep understanding of transportation policy. Known for his collaborative leadership, Chris is committed to addressing fraud, nuclear verdicts, and carrier safety reform to strengthen the freight ecosystem.
Episode Highlights:
[00:00:29 - 00:11:38] Chris Burroughs dives into the importance of cultivating strong relationships within Congress and the transportation industry, showcasing their critical role in advancing TIA's advocacy goals. Drawing from his extensive experience, he shares how these connections have enabled the organization to navigate complex legislative landscapes and influence impactful policies. Chris also reflects on the role of mutual trust, open dialogue, and strategic partnerships in championing initiatives that benefit brokers, carriers, and shippers alike.
[00:35:12 - 00:39:37] With a staggering 600% increase in fraud cases, Chris highlights the scope and severity of this pressing issue. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving tactics used by fraudsters and their detrimental impact on supply chain integrity. Chris elaborates on TIA’s coordinated legislative and industry-wide efforts, including educational campaigns, advanced monitoring systems, and strategic collaborations with lawmakers, to combat fraud and mitigate financial losses across the sector.
[00:39:37 - 00:41:11] Chris unpacks the cascading effects of nuclear verdicts, emphasizing how multimillion-dollar settlements are inflating insurance premiums and threatening the financial stability of transportation businesses. He discusses the broader implications for small and mid-sized companies struggling to remain competitive and highlights TIA’s advocacy for balanced legal reforms. By addressing these verdicts through industry-backed initiatives, TIA aims to ensure fairness in legal proceedings while protecting the supply chain from undue financial burdens.
[00:41:11 - 00:46:32] A reliable safety rating system is vital for fostering trust and competitiveness in transportation. Chris explores how the current system’s shortcomings are undermining transparency and fairness, particularly for smaller carriers. He delves into TIA’s push for data-driven reforms, advocating for a more equitable and accurate safety assessment framework. Chris underscores how these changes will not only enhance road safety but also empower businesses to build stronger, more resilient operations in an ever-evolving transportation landscape.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Lisa Haubenstock, VP of Vice President of Product, Risk & Compliance Solutions, and Joel Franke, Director of APIs and Data Products at Truckstop.
Join them as they explore:– The rise of fraud in the freight industry and its economic triggers– Behavioral patterns of bad actors and how to identify them– Practical tools and strategies to protect brokers, carriers, and shippers– Leveraging real-time data to combat fraud and improve decision-making– Building trust through technology and relationships in freight operations– The future of fraud prevention and staying ahead in a fast-paced industry
Lisa Haubenstock brings extensive experience in customer success, operations, and product strategy. Over four years at Truckstop, she has driven initiatives to enhance security and compliance for brokers, carriers, and shippers. Previously, she held leadership roles at Amazon Web Services, focusing on training programs and early-career development.
Joel Franke specializes in leveraging advanced data tools and AI to optimize workflows and mitigate fraud in the freight industry. At Truckstop, he leads innovation in real-time data solutions and integration strategies. Before this, he managed platform services at Elsevier, overseeing educational software portfolios and operational efficiency.
Episode Highlights:
[00:03:54] Lisa highlights the unprecedented rise in freight fraud since 2022, attributing it to economic downturns, the post-pandemic freight surge, and advancements in technology used by fraudsters. She explains that the freight industry faces a dual challenge: combating both cyberattacks targeting sensitive data and physical theft of goods.
[00:06:38] Lisa dives into the behavioral patterns of fraud profiles such as "chameleon carriers," who rebrand under new identities to evade detection, and "bandits," who infiltrate systems to steal loads outright. She shares specific tactics fraudsters use, such as reusing contact information and creating delays to manipulate pickup schedules.
[00:18:05] Joel discusses how real-time data, or “digital exhaust,” plays a critical role in detecting fraud. He provides examples, like identifying suspicious IP logins and monitoring unusual account activity, to illustrate how platforms like Truckstop are leveraging data to proactively flag and mitigate fraudulent behavior.
[00:33:52] Lisa discusses the critical balance brokerages must strike between maintaining a robust carrier network and ensuring compliance to safeguard against fraud. She explains the natural tension between carrier sales teams, who prioritize accessibility to carriers, and compliance teams, who emphasize strict vetting. Lisa highlights the need for tools that allow brokerages to calibrate compliance standards dynamically based on market conditions, such as tightening controls during high-capacity periods or loosening them when carrier availability is limited. She emphasizes that flexibility and proper integration of compliance tools are essential for delivering on customer commitments effectively, tailored to each brokerage’s unique strategy.
[00:36:30] Joel explains the importance of a "single pane of glass" approach to fraud prevention, where all relevant data is consolidated in one place for easy access. He highlights the need to move from descriptive analytics to predictive solutions, emphasizing that data science and AI are simply advanced tools for processing and acting on data. Joel stresses the value of flexibility in solutions like Truckstop’s Risk Factors, which evolve with changing fraud patterns and brokerage needs. He underscores the importance of customizable frameworks that allow brokerages to adapt workflows as their priorities shift, ensuring tools remain relevant and effective over time.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Kevin Rutherford, Owner and Presenter of LetsTruck. 
Join them as they explore:

• The value of big-picture thinking for small business success
• Insights into the current freight cycle and recovery opportunities
• Managing fixed costs and avoiding financial overextension
• Strategies to mitigate fraud and safeguard operations
• Leveraging AI for smarter decision-making and operational efficiency
• Navigating regulatory changes under a new administration
• Turning competition into a catalyst for growth

Having started as a Small Fleet Owner for FedEx Ground, Kevin Rutherford has built a name for himself in the logistics industry. Until 2022, he hosted Road Dog Trucking’s Trucking Business & Beyond for Sirius Satellite Radio. He is now the Owner and Presenter of LetsTruck, a call-in business advice show that has helped thousands of owner-operators and fleets improve their fuel efficiency and maintenance costs and increase their bottom line.

Episode Highlights:
[02:51 - 04:59] Kevin emphasizes that big-picture thinking is essential for success in the trucking industry. He explains that focusing on broader trends allows businesses to adapt more effectively to changes in the market. However, he acknowledges that not everyone excels at operational details and suggests partnering with individuals who can complement this gap. Drawing from his own experience, Kevin highlights the importance of building a strong team to manage specifics while ensuring strategic goals remain the primary focus. He underlines that understanding where the industry is headed, rather than getting lost in minutiae, is what positions businesses for long-term success.
[08:35 - 11:19] Kevin describes the current freight cycle as one of the most unusual in recent memory, explaining how it has become somewhat disconnected from the broader economy. He points out that typical patterns, like freight recessions mirroring economic downturns, didn’t occur this time. Instead, disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic and the ELD mandate have contributed to unique dynamics in freight volumes and rates. Kevin shares his optimism for 2025, anticipating steady growth rather than erratic market surges, and encourages carriers to capitalize on the emerging opportunities. Businesses can stabilize operations and build resilience against unpredictable market conditions by focusing on incremental progress.
[12:16 - 14:44] Kevin warns against the dangers of over-leveraging, particularly for businesses that grew rapidly during the COVID-19 boom. He references the recent bankruptcy of a large carrier burdened with unsustainable debt and high-interest rates, highlighting the risks of failing to adapt to normalized market conditions. Kevin stresses the importance of managing fixed costs carefully and avoiding financial decisions that could jeopardize long-term viability. He advises carriers to prioritize financial stability over chasing fleeting profits, especially in volatile market environments. Proper cost management, he asserts, is a cornerstone for navigating downturns and staying competitive.
[18:05 - 23:00] Kevin discusses the unique advantages smaller carriers have in the current market, particularly as regulatory burdens are expected to ease under the new administration. He contrasts the flexibility of smaller businesses with the higher costs that big businesses can absorb and pass on to customers. Kevin shares his optimism for the near future, highlighting short-term benefits for transportation, such as increased demand driven by the threat of tariffs. He also predicts a shift toward nearshoring and increased manufacturing in the U.S., which could create long-term opportunities for the trucking industry. These developments, he explains, could set the stage for a decade of prosperity and growth for those who strategically position themselves.
[30:24 - 32:18] Kevin Rutherford discusses the ongoing debate around broker transparency and emphasizes the importance of focusing on practical realities rather than idealistic notions of right or wrong. He explains that brokers are an integral part of the trucking industry, making operations more efficient and meeting the needs of shippers. Kevin advises carriers to accept that brokers aren’t going away and instead build strong, trust-based relationships to avoid common issues like disputes over rates. He emphasizes that spending energy trying to change the system won’t work and encourages owner-operators to focus on reliable partnerships and adding value. His advice is simple: adapt to how the market works and make the most of it instead of fighting against it.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Drew Herpich, Chief Commercial Officer at Nolan Transportation Group (NTG) & Transportation Insight (TI).
Join them as they explore:

• Drew’s unconventional start in freight, from truck stops to leadership roles
• How understanding carrier needs transforms brokerage success
• Lessons learned during Coyote Logistics’ rapid growth phase
• Transitioning from cradle-to-grave to buy-sell models in brokerage
• Managing through freight market cycles with consistency and strategy
• Navigating mergers and acquisitions to sustain company culture
• Leadership insights on building resilient and adaptable teams

Drew Herpich shapes the strategic vision for the combined organization of NTG and Transportation Insight. Since joining NTG in 2020 as EVP, Enterprise Strategy, Drew has transformed carrier operations, enhancing services like drayage, LTL, final mile, and warehousing to better serve customers. With over 14 years at Coyote Logistics prior to NTG, Drew’s expertise in fostering carrier relationships has redefined value propositions for freight brokerage. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a background in sales and business marketing.
Episode Highlights:
[10:15 - 15:45] During his time at Coyote Logistics, Drew emphasizes the transformative power of embracing a learning mindset and staying coachable in a competitive environment. He shares how his early days were shaped by direct mentorship from industry veterans like Jeff Silver, who instilled the importance of understanding the business from both a strategic and operational standpoint. Drew recounts the challenging yet rewarding experience of working in a rapidly growing company, where every interaction was an opportunity to learn and refine his skills. His ability to absorb lessons from both successes and failures allowed him to adapt quickly to industry demands and consistently deliver value. These formative years laid the foundation for his eventual rise to leadership and his holistic approach to freight brokerage today.
[18:30 - 22:00] Drew describes his transition into leadership and the critical lessons he learned about managing diverse teams. He highlights the importance of understanding individual motivators, whether financial, career advancement or work-life balance and tailoring management approaches to address these. Drew recounts early missteps, such as promoting top salespeople into management roles without recognizing the distinct skillsets required for leadership. Through these experiences, he discovered that effective leaders foster collaboration, respect individual strengths, and create environments where employees feel valued and empowered. This understanding became a cornerstone of his leadership style as he scaled teams and drove results.
[25:00 - 30:15] Navigating NTG’s shift from a cradle-to-grave brokerage model to a buy-sell model posed unique challenges and opportunities. Drew shares how the transition required rethinking internal processes and redefining how carrier relationships were managed. By prioritizing clear communication and leveraging NTG’s extensive network, the team successfully enhanced operational efficiency. Drew also focused on building trust with carriers, ensuring they viewed NTG as a reliable partner rather than a transactional intermediary. This strategic shift positioned NTG to scale more effectively while offering tailored solutions to customers' unique transportation needs.
[35:00 - 39:45] Drew provides insights into NTG’s growth strategy, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation during mergers and acquisitions. He discusses how the integration of acquired companies can only succeed by understanding and respecting the original culture that made them successful. Listening to the founders and their teams was pivotal in identifying synergies while ensuring a smooth transition. Drew explains how this approach allowed NTG to leverage the strengths of acquired companies without losing the elements that made them valuable. The result was a cohesive organization poised for sustained growth and innovation.
[41:00 - 45:00] In navigating freight market cycles, Drew stresses the importance of consistency and long-term strategic focus. He cautions against overreacting to short-term market fluctuations by questioning proven processes or chasing trendy opportunities. Instead, Drew advocates for a steady approach rooted in resilience and adaptability, drawing on his experience during volatile periods like the Great Recession and recent freight recessions. By focusing on the core principles that drive value for both carriers and customers, he ensures NTG remains agile yet stable in a dynamic market. This philosophy has been key to maintaining success through the industry's ups and downs.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Will Jenkins, Founder & CEO of Journey and Investor & Partner at Shipper CRM.
Join them as they explore:

• Will's journey from college football player to freight industry leader
• The founding and successful exit of MOLO
• The importance of training in freight broker success
• Building authentic brands in transportation
• The current state of freight talent acquisition
• Creating sustainable growth in logistics businesses
• Why personal and company branding are vital for success in transportation and beyond

Will Jenkins is the Founder & CEO of Journey, a leading recruiting, consulting, and training firm in the transportation industry. His fifteen years experience includes founding and scaling MOLO to a successful exit to ArcBest, demonstrating his expertise in building and growing freight brokerages. With a background spanning from carrier sales to executive leadership, Will brings a comprehensive understanding of the trucking industry's talent needs and operational challenges.
Episode Highlights:
[05:25 - 08:10] Will reveals his unexpected entry into sales through Cutco, where he achieved remarkable success by selling $10,000 worth of products in his first ten days, laying the foundation for his future career in freight brokerage and demonstrating his natural aptitude for building client relationships.
[10:30 - 13:50] Transitioning into the freight industry, Will recounts his first role at Coyote Logistics and his rapid rise within the company. He highlights the energy of Coyote’s collaborative culture and how it shaped his understanding of freight brokerage. Will discusses how he embraced the steep learning curve, leveraging his sales background and the mentorship of industry veterans to excel in carrier sales. The dynamic environment and strong training foundation helped him develop the expertise that would later serve him as an entrepreneur. This period laid the groundwork for his journey to leadership in the freight sector.
[16:15 - 20:05] Will explains the inspiration behind co-founding MoLo Solutions and the guiding principles that fueled its rapid growth. He highlights the importance of treating drivers, shippers, and employees with respect, emphasizing service excellence as MoLo’s competitive edge. Will also touches on the challenges of scaling a company in a fast-paced industry and the importance of assembling a capable and empowered team. By prioritizing relationships and core values, MoLo grew to over 900 employees and $1 billion in revenue before its acquisition. Will’s reflections underscore the impact of building a company culture that aligns with both customer and employee needs.
[34:15 - 38:50] Now leading Journey, Will discusses the freight talent gap and the critical role of training in closing it. He highlights the challenges companies face in recruiting top talent, particularly for revenue-generating roles like sales. Will explains that strong onboarding and training programs are not just a competitive advantage—they’re essential for operational success in the industry. Drawing from his experiences at MoLo and Journey, he shares insights on how companies can attract and retain high-performing employees while improving overall efficiency. His perspective reinforces the need for long-term investments in people as the foundation for business growth.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Todd Amen, President and CEO of ATBS, and Adam Wingfield, Founder & Managing Director of Innovative Logistics University.
Join them as they explore:- Strategic tax planning for truck drivers and carriers- Section 179 deductions and equipment investments- Per diem optimization for trucking operations- Business growth strategies in freight transportation- Economic changes affecting the trucking industry- Retirement planning for owner-operators
Todd Amen leads ATBS, which has served over 150,000 owner-operators throughout its 26-year history, currently supporting approximately 20,000 clients annually with accounting and tax services. Their drivers typically earn 40% more than industry averages through strategic financial planning and tax optimization.
Adam Wingfield, with over 25 years in the trucking industry, founded Innovative Logistics University in 2006. His organization has supported more than 77,000 carriers, focusing specifically on operations with fewer than 10 trucks. His approach combines operational efficiency with financial prudence to help small carriers succeed in the competitive freight market.
Episode Highlights:
[00:04:27] Adam Wingfield shares his journey in the trucking industry, highlighting how Innovative Logistics Group has supported over 77,000 carriers since 2006, emphasizing their focus on operational efficiency and financial prudence for small freight carriers operating fewer than 10 trucks.
[00:26:42] Todd Amen emphasizes the importance of real-time expense tracking for truck drivers, explaining how modern technology simplifies bookkeeping through simple photo uploads of receipts, eliminating the traditional "shoebox method" and enabling better business management for carriers.
[00:34:35] The experts discuss the critical balance between tax deductions and business growth, emphasizing that trucking companies shouldn't make equipment purchases solely for tax benefits but should align investments with their long-term operational strategy in the freight industry.
[00:39:49] A detailed explanation of quarterly tax obligations reveals that over 70% of new trucking clients don't pay quarterly taxes, leading to significant penalties. The solution proposed is to save 20% of weekly net earnings specifically for tax obligations.
[00:42:30] Todd provides crucial insights about per diem deductions for truck drivers, explaining the recent increase from $69 to $80 per day and emphasizing how proper tracking can lead to approximately $25,000 in annual deductions for the average driver.
[00:48:27] The discussion concludes with strategic advice on adapting to economic changes in the trucking industry, including how freight rates and fuel prices impact operational decisions, and the importance of retirement planning for owner-operators.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here.Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Ilya Denisenko, owner of ICV Express.
Join them as they explore:- The journey from culinary arts to trucking- Starting a trucking business during challenging market conditions- Building broker relationships in the current freight market- The importance of knowing your operational numbers- Strategies for fleet expansion and growth- The value of continuous education in trucking
Ilya Denisenko is the owner of ICV Express, which he founded in 2023. With degrees in culinary arts and hospitality administration, Ilya brings a unique perspective to the trucking industry. He started his transportation career at Prime, then gained experience with Walmart and Atomic Transport before launching his own operation. His company focuses on providing reliable freight services while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency and operational standards.

Episode Highlights:
[00:02:05] Operating with impressive efficiency, Ilya's 2020 Volvo VNL showcases the importance of smart equipment choices in trucking. With nearly 700,000 miles on the odometer, his truck consistently achieves over 9 miles per gallon, demonstrating how proper truck specification and maintenance can significantly impact a carrier's bottom line. This exceptional fuel economy, combined with minimal maintenance issues primarily limited to tires, highlights how strategic equipment selection can create competitive advantages in the freight transportation industry.
[00:13:39] Ilya emphasizes the value of continuous learning in the trucking industry, transforming drive time into educational opportunities. Rather than solely listening to entertainment content during his routes, he dedicates his driving hours to business podcasts, startup strategies, and industry insights. This commitment to learning while driving has proven invaluable in developing his freight business, showing how carriers can maximize their time on the road for both profit and professional development.
[00:27:01] In discussing operational metrics, Ilya breaks down his cost per mile at $1.26, demonstrating strong performance in the current freight market. His ability to maintain profitability even with rates ranging from $1.77 to $2.40 per mile showcases effective cost management and operational efficiency. This transparency about operating costs and revenue provides valuable insights for other carriers looking to benchmark their performance in the trucking industry.
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