Have you ever wondered what it takes to go from being a corporate cubicle to a full-service freight boss?
In this Greatest Hits episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Seretha Willingham, CEO of SJW Logistics, for a raw, strategic, and inspiring conversation about the business of freight. Seretha shares the lessons she picked up from Coca-Cola, the military, and her project management days at XPO, and how she applied them to launch a successful logistics company in 2020. Together, they explore the six pro tips that helped her grow SJW Logistics during one of the toughest market seasons in the industry: make a plan, pivot off bad ideas, leverage data, do your homework, invest in long-term relationships, and follow the process.
What You’ll Learn:

• The six pro tips that helped Seretha grow SJW Logistics during a tough freight market
• Why making a business plan is your first non-negotiable move
• The mindset shift that helped her pivot fast even when it hurt
• How to protect your business from double brokering scams
• Why being a woman of color in freight has been more strength than setback
• The value of intellectual honesty and letting go of what’s not working
• Why focusing on long-term relationships builds recession-proof companies

Seretha is a seasoned Project Management Executive with extensive experience in financial data analysis, information systems technology, and strategic planning and execution. From a career start at The Coca-Cola Company to then Project Management at XPO Logistics before founding SJW Logistics in 2020, a third-party logistics company providing best-in-class solutions, Seretha has spent a lot of time in logistics, building up extensive knowledge of the sector.

Episode Highlights:

[09:37]Drawing from her time at Coca-Cola and XPO, Seretha reflects on how studying major freight companies like JB Hunt inspired her to build a plan and why every entrepreneur should start the same way. They all had similar stories: they started slowly and then grew everything. This research was her first step towards founding SJW Logistics. Having seen companies succeed through this approach, Seretha followed the same methods, doing what she knew best and creating a project plan. She advises always planning your work before you complete it, especially in entrepreneurial pursuits.

[15:40] Often, small business owners get so caught up in the passion of running a business and the small successes that they hold onto everything they are doing, even when it’s not working. This then means that when things don’t work out, they can feel like a failure. From her work in corporate America, Seretha learned that if things don’t work out, you need to move on and not waste money. There are so many other opportunities that you need to try until you find something that works. 

[22:05] SJW Logistics recently had some issues around double brokering in the marketplace. They did their due diligence in setting the carrier up, and it seemed to be checking all the boxes, but the company they were working with was a scam. This experience has taught them to be cautious of people who want quick pay or other slightly weird things from their loads. Now, they always do their homework before working with someone else; you cannot be overly cautious in checking that everything adds up.

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

Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a trucking business when you’re not the one behind the wheel?
In this Greatest Hits episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Jessica Dotson, who went from accountant to trucking advocate and operations expert,  all sparked by her husband’s dream to drive. Together, they share a deeply personal conversation covering what most people never talk about in the industry, from the emotional toll of being a trucking spouse to the real risks of burnout, blood clots, and diabetes from long hours on the road.
What You’ll Learn:

• Why every trucking couple needs to align their vision.
• The back-office skills most truckers don’t realise they need.
• How health risks like blood clots and diabetes nearly derailed their business.
• What brokers look for when approving a carrier.
• The truth about fuel cards, cash flow, and operational savings.
• How understanding cost-per-mile can make or break your business.

Jessica Dotson is Director of Business Development and Account Management at Multi Service Fuel Card, which launched the first real-time authorization fuel card that revolutionized fleet management and fuel purchases. She has been with Multi Service Fuel Card for over six years, having previously worked as Director of Account Management and Manager. Jessica recently joined the Board of Directors for the Women in Trucking Foundation. 
Episode Highlights:
[21:56 - 26:26] When Jessica started learning about the trucking industry, she worked for a variety of companies in order to gain experience. For instance, she worked for a brokerage, where she learned what brokers look for in carriers, including insurance, driving records, and communication skills. Jessica emphasizes that building strong broker-carrier relationships is vital. Additionally, to understand cash flow challenges, she worked for a factoring company, where she learned how factoring can be useful for trucking companies that need quick payments to stabilize cash flow. 
[29:29 - 31:42] Jessica discusses the importance of having operational savings before starting your own business in the trucking industry. She advises having at least a year to a year and a half worth of operational savings to ensure financial stability. Noting how major mechanical failures and health crises are the two main factors that can put truckers out of business, she says that cash flow is crucial, especially during breakdowns or other issues, and having enough savings can prevent financial hardships. 
[37:55 - 39:24] Jessica highlights the benefits and pitfalls of using fuel cards in the trucking industry. She notes the importance of understanding the overall fuel spend and not getting too focused on discounts. Jessica also says that fuel cards provide a safer and easier way to pay, as well as the ability to track and plan fuel expenses more strategically—for instance, before using a specialized fuel card, she struggled with time-consuming and complicated reporting processes. She advises choosing a fuel card that is accepted at truck stops—as opposed to general fuel cards, like those from major credit card companies. 
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

Have you ever wondered what it takes to thrive in trucking for 45 years, even after facing cancer, career changes, and being one of the only women on the road?
In this Greatest Hits episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Ingrid Brown, a Member of the board of Directors at the Women In Trucking Association.
What You’ll Learn:

• How Ingrid’s parents shaped her work ethic and trucking career.
• What it’s like to be a woman in a male-dominated industry.
• Why asking for help is crucial for safety and education.
• The power of community in trucking and how it can help drivers succeed.
• How Ingrid navigated major life changes while staying in the industry.
• Why every trucker should have a backup plan to handle unexpected challenges.

Ingrid is a professional truck driver with 45 years of experience. Since 1979, she has been a Member, of the Board of Directors at the Women In Trucking Association, and more recently she is a Company Driver with Blackjack Express. She is also a prominent member of the Women in Trucking (WIT) Association, serving on the 2024-2025 Board of Directors. In 2022, she was named one of the WIT Women to Watch in Transportation.

Episode Highlights:

[09:10 - 15:17] Ingrid attributes a lot of her success in transportation and supply chain to the foundational tools and work ethic her father instilled in her. She worked directly with him at his family construction business, where he was the main man on the ground. He was always strict about education and expected her to learn quickly and efficiently. Even after an accident left him with severe injuries and impaired speech, he still provided valuable mechanical advice to her about her trucks. She strongly believes that her foundations in construction helped her in the switch to transportation and that everybody can use their background knowledge to achieve what she has with determination and effort. 
[18:02 - 26:23] Ingrid’s experience in construction, where she was the only female, prepared her for the male-dominated trucking industry. When she first made the shift over to transportation, there were very few female drivers, only six crossing the country as solo drivers, so they supported one another by leaving notes at truck stops. Throughout her career, Ingrid hasn’t been scared to ask for help, and she emphasizes how important this is for everybody, not just women, from both a safety and education perspective. Drivers need to communicate and support each other and create a wider community, similar to how it used to be when we would all stand around at the truck stop sharing stories. 
[38:07 - 43:55] In 2017, Ingrid was diagnosed with stage two melanoma, a disease that had caused the death of several of her family members. She has had several surgeries, which included the removal of a quarter of her throat, and is still in treatment today but has been allowed back to work. Last year she sold her truck and deactivated her authority, joining Blackjack Express, a heavy haul company that accommodates her medical needs. She stresses how important it is to find a company that will support your personal and health needs as a driver. Her experience is also a testament to the value of backup plans and varied experience for when unforeseen circumstances show themselves. Her story is proof that you should never give up, and instead seek help when you need 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 Greatest Hits episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Ellen Voie, Founder of the Women In Trucking Association.
Join them as they:

• Discuss the early days of the Women In Trucking Association
• Explore Ellen’s drive to get more data on gender disparity in the trucking industry
• Delve into the wins and challenges the Association has faced
• Examine what it’s like to be the leader of a brand
• And more!

Ellen Voie is passionate about creating a more gender diverse culture in the transportation industry. In 2007, she recognized the need to support women in the sector, founding the non-profit organization, the Women In Trucking Association. Since then, she has grown the membership to over 8,000 corporate and individual members in ten countries.
Episode Highlights:

[04:27] Working as Manager of Recruiting and Retention Programmes at a large Midwest carrier, Ellen was tasked with determining how to attract and retain nontraditional groups, such as ex-military, women, and seniors. The industry kept saying that they didn’t care about an individual’s demographics and would just hire the best person for the job, but Ellen saw them completely ignoring 50% of the population: women. At the time, she was working towards her pilot’s license and was a member of a women’s aviation association, and she couldn’t help wondering why there wasn’t a similar association in the trucking industry. So, she built one: the Women In Trucking Association. Mirroring the structure of the aviation association, Ellen put together a board of directors of influential women she knew and worked with her attorney to write the mission statement. The mission has never changed; it is simply to encourage the employment of women in the industry, to address obstacles that might keep them from either entering or succeeding, and to celebrate success.
[11:11] Leaders of non-profit organizations need to act as a resource of information, and when she first started, Ellen had no data to go from. Very few fleets truly knew what their percentage of female drivers was. Ellen would go to any and every conference asking the same question: “Do you have your data broken down by gender?” Every time, the answer was no, and she’d ask them how to get that data. She was getting the train of thought and conversation started on the experience of women in the industry. She was in charge of getting the data out to companies, reaching out to the Association’s members and female drivers at trade shows.
[27:32] Ellen led the Women In Trucking Association for sixteen years, only recently retiring. As the leader of the brand, she has been pleased by the reception in the industry. People listened to what she had to say, and she was able to establish her credibility to be able to change the future for women in the industry. The biggest challenge, other than people not knowing how to pronounce her last name, has been extricating herself from the brand. It’s her baby, and now she has had to pass the baton on to someone else to lead the Association. 
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

We’re bringing back one of the most inspiring and timeless conversations from Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, featuring Nicole Glenn, Founder and CEO of Candor Logistics Management.

Nicole shares how an unexpected opportunity launched her into trucking, what it took to start her own company, and how she’s driving innovative frozen freight solutions today. From building trust in the high-stakes world of expedited shipping to leveraging creative thinking for complex logistics problems, Nicole’s journey is filled with lessons that remain just as relevant today.
If you missed this conversation the first time, now is the perfect moment to tune in.
In this Greatest Hits episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Nicole Glenn, Founder and CEO of Candor Logistics Management.
Join them as they:

• Delve into Nicole’s unexpected entrance to trucking
• Discuss Nicole’s decision to found her own business
• Explore the highs and lows of expedited work
• Explain Nicole’s recent foray into frozen freight
• And more!

Nicole has been in the haulage and logistics industry for over twenty years. Described as having logistics “in her DNA”, she is an accomplished manager and leader. She’s worked for many big Logistics companies across the US, from Chicago to Dallas Fort Worth, where she founded her own business, Candor Logistics Management. Nicole is also a panelist on the Ladies Leadership Coalition podcast, celebrating women in the supply chain industry.
Episode Highlights:
[04:55] Nicole didn’t find trucking; trucking found her. While working a retail job at an automotive store, Nicole served a customer who was impressed with her memory, giving her a makeshift business card and asking her to give him a call. Hedging her bets, she called him up, and he offered her $10 an hour for filing. This was her entry into the logistics world. Over time, they gradually moved from handwritten receipts to accounting software, and she moved through roles, ending up as a backhaul dispatcher before moving on to other companies, gradually rising to President of one business.
[12:09] After a decent stint as the leader of someone else’s company, Nicole made the leap to found her own. It came when she was on vacation, receiving calls about things going wrong that she needed to fix. She took a moment to reflect and realized she was ready to take on the responsibility for herself, deciding to leave the company. She didn’t leave for several months due to the busy seasons they were heading into, but she left once she could, starting up her own business. She initially didn’t love her own company as much as the old one, partially due to going from a huge team to nobody, but she’s glad she leapt.

[21:18] From working in an expediting organization at age 23 to now owning Candor Logistics Management, Nicole has seen both the highs and lows of the sector. The sector revolves around solving a problem for someone, but it can be tough to get customers because they need to trust you to get involved. Over time, she has built credibility through testimonials, stories, and case studies, but it was incredibly difficult to start out. Now that she is trusted, however, relationships have completely flipped. She is now tasked with the most random and often complex things a shipper could imagine. 
[26:59] Nicole and her team recently stepped into frozen freight. Having served many fast food retailers and food companies, they were often asked to move frozen products but could never find refrigerated expediting equipment. It just wasn't commonly available. Nicole ended up talking to a buddy working in supply chains, and they found a wrap product that could sustain the temperature of a skid. It wasn’t good enough, so Nicole kept searching and utilizing her network, eventually finding a product used in the pharmaceutical world for products that needed to be kept cool. Putting it into practice, they have found that it can hold food at the same temperature, whether fresh or frozen, through five days of shipment. There’s even a live feed on it so that both the company and customers are aware if things go awry with the temperature maintenance and can work to fix it. If it weren’t for Nicole’s attitude towards solving problems, she wouldn’t have ever found this solution.
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 Daniel Linss and Tim Sieben of 10-4 Magazine.
Join them as they explore:

• How 10-4 Magazine was founded in 1993 and the vision behind it
• Daniel’s unexpected journey from architecture to publishing and his passion for trucking media
• The magazine’s deep-rooted history and its impact on the trucking industry.
• The role of storytelling in keeping trucking culture alive
• What it takes to run an independent trucking magazine for over 31 years
• The shift from print to digital and how 10-4 Magazine is adapting
• Their involvement in the Trucking for Kids charity and how it’s making a difference
• What’s next for 10-4 Magazine and its new ventures, including live events and a trucking webcast
  
  

Daniel Linss is an editor/art director for 10-4 Magazine, and Tim Sieben is the TFK Show Manager for 10-4 Magazine. With decades of industry experience, they have built a platform that informs and celebrates the trucking culture. Their work spans photography, storytelling, and events, fostering a strong community. They actively advocates for truckers’ voices and industry recognition. Through Trucking for Kids, they support charitable initiatives benefiting children’s hospitals. Their commitment to trucking extends beyond media, ensuring the industry's legacy thrives. 10-4 Magazine remains a trusted source for truckers nationwide.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:23 - 00:07:27] Brent introduces 10-4 Magazine and shares his own journey in trucking media. He reflects on how his early career at Overdrive Magazine gave him a firsthand look at the industry and fostered his appreciation for trucking. Brent discusses how media serves as the bridge between truckers, industry trends, and valuable resources, setting the stage for a deeper dive into 10-4 Magazine’s legacy. Daniel Linss shares how he originally pursued architecture but ultimately found his calling in trucking media. He recounts his introduction to 10-4 Magazine in 1993 when he was unexpectedly pulled into helping with the first edition.
[00:07:27 - 00:14:42] Daniel and Tim dive into how 10-4 Magazine transitioned from a 24-page black-and-white classifieds paper to a 64-page, high-quality, full-color trucking magazine. They discuss how attending truck shows and connecting with the trucking community shaped the magazine's direction. They share how the magazine's photography and storytelling became the heart of their content, capturing the trucks and people who make the industry what it is.
[00:14:42 - 00:19:57] Running a magazine comes with its fair share of challenges. Daniel and Tim delve into the demanding behind-the-scenes work required to meet deadlines, coordinate content, and manage distribution. They talk about how the rise of digital media has impacted the magazine industry, but why they remain committed to keeping a print edition available for truckers who love holding a physical copy in their hands. They discuss the importance of adaptability and how they have stayed relevant in an evolving media landscape.
[00:19:57 - 00:31:00] The discussion shifts to Trucking for Kids, a charity event 10-4 Magazine took over to ensure its legacy continues. Daniel and Tim discuss how the event has evolved and share heartfelt stories of truckers coming together to support children in need. They highlight how they have raised over $210,000 for the Shriners Hospital and why giving back is such a critical part of the trucking community. They explain why truckers have a strong tradition of generosity and how the event fosters industry-wide camaraderie.
[00:31:00 - 00:36:04] Looking to the future, Daniel and Tim lay out their plans for expanding 10-4 Magazine’s reach. They discuss how they are growing their digital presence with a trucking webcast and live event coverage. They introduce their latest project, the 10-4 Trucker Rodeo, an event designed to bring truckers together in a celebration of skill and community. They reflect on their passion for the trucking culture and their unwavering dedication to preserving its history while embracing the opportunities of modern media.
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 once again by Lewie Pugh, Executive Vice President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA). 
Join them as they explore:

• The history and role of OOIDA in protecting truckers’ rights in Washington, D.C.
• Why truckers need to be more engaged in shaping policies that impact their livelihoods
• The ongoing challenges of trucking regulations, from speed limiters to electronic logging devices (ELDs)
• How OOIDA supports truckers in navigating industry changes and government policies
• The critical importance of understanding operational costs for profitability
• Why truckers should take advantage of advocacy opportunities and engage with lawmakers

Lewie Pugh is the Executive Vice President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), advocating for truckers' rights on Capitol Hill. A former owner-operator, Lewie spent decades behind the wheel before transitioning into advocacy to ensure independent truckers have a voice in Washington. With firsthand experience in the challenges of trucking, he is committed to shaping policies that support owner-operators and improve industry conditions. Lewie’s leadership at OOIDA focuses on fair regulations, truck parking solutions, and protecting the livelihoods of small trucking businesses.
Episode Highlights:
[00:03:51 - 00:12:26] Lewie Pugh shares how OOIDA was founded in 1973 when truckers came together during the fuel crisis to demand fair treatment from lawmakers. He explains how the organization grew from a grassroots effort into a major advocacy group, now influencing trucking policies on Capitol Hill. Lewie discusses the importance of continuing this fight and why truckers must stay involved to protect their rights, He also highlights that without collective action, policymakers may overlook the real needs of truckers, making engagement critical.
[00:12:26 - 00:19:44] Lewie emphasizes that lawmakers often lack firsthand trucking experience, which is why truckers need to educate them on industry challenges. He explains that without direct input from truckers, many policies are shaped by individuals who have never been behind the wheel of a truck. He shares stories of truckers who successfully influenced policy by reaching out to their representatives. He also provides practical tips on how truckers can effectively communicate their concerns and build relationships with legislators to drive change.
[00:19:44 - 00:29:11] Lewie dives into how government regulations have changed the trucking industry, with a focus on Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and speed limiters. Lewie discusses how these regulations have negatively impacted drivers by increasing stress and limiting flexibility. He provides insight into OOIDA’s ongoing efforts to challenge these policies, and the strategies used to engage with policymakers and advocate for more practical solutions that prioritize truckers' well-being. 
[00:29:11 - 00:34:48] Lewie discusses the financial side of trucking, explaining why every trucker must know their cost per mile to stay profitable. He shares real-world examples of truckers who have struggled due to poor financial planning and provides actionable strategies to track expenses, negotiate better rates, and ensure long-term business sustainability. He also highlights the importance of financial literacy and planning as key elements of success in the trucking industry.
[00:34:48 - 00:39:58] Lewie discusses the hidden pitfalls within broker contracts and the lack of rate transparency that often puts truckers at a disadvantage. He explains Regulation 371.3, which mandates that brokers disclose freight rates, and highlights how many truckers unknowingly waive this right in contracts. Lewie advises truckers on what to look for in agreements and how to protect themselves from unfair broker practices. He emphasizes the importance of reading contracts carefully and seeking legal advice when necessary to avoid hidden clauses that could impact their earnings.
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 Lewie Pugh, Executive Vice President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA).
Join them as they explore:

• Lewie’s path from trucking in rural Ohio to becoming a voice for truckers in Washington, D.C.
• The importance of relationships in the trucking industry and how connections helped shape his career
• His time as an owner-operator and the lessons he learned from running his own trucking business
• Why he transitioned from trucking to advocacy and the moment he knew it was time to make a bigger impact
• The role of OOIDA in protecting truckers' rights and why independent operators need representation in Washington
• Lewie’s perspective on the biggest challenges facing truckers today, from regulations to truck parking issues
• His message to truckers about the importance of being involved and making their voices heard
  
  

Lewie Pugh is the Executive Vice President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), advocating for truckers' rights on Capitol Hill. A former owner-operator, Lewie spent decades behind the wheel before transitioning into advocacy to ensure independent truckers have a voice in Washington. With firsthand experience in the challenges of trucking, he is committed to shaping policies that support owner-operators and improve industry conditions. Lewie’s leadership at OOIDA focuses on fair regulations, truck parking solutions, and protecting the livelihoods of small trucking businesses.

Episode Highlights:
[00:03:03 - 00:14:07] Lewie Pugh shares how his upbringing in Appalachia, Ohio, shaped his passion for trucking. Growing up in a trucking family, he was influenced by his father and grandfather, both truckers and always knew he wanted to follow in their footsteps. From driving farm equipment as a kid to being captivated by Smokey and the Bandit, Lewie discusses the early years that set him on the road to a lifelong career in trucking. He also shares the pivotal moment when he realized that trucking was more than just a job, it was a calling.
[00:14:07 - 00:19:57] Lewie reveals how he moved from Owner-Operator to Industry leader at just 22 years old. He talks about the challenges of starting his own business, managing finances, and navigating the trucking industry as a young entrepreneur. Lewie reflects on how working with experienced truckers and mentors helped him develop the skills he needed to succeed.
[00:19:57 - 00:23:52] Lewie dives into why advocacy is essential for truckers, especially independent owner-operators. He shares how he first became involved with OOIDA and what drew him to the organization’s mission. From dealing with regulations to ensuring truckers' rights are protected, he outlines why it’s crucial for drivers to stay informed and engaged with industry policies. He also provides insight into the major issues facing owner-operators today and why truckers need to take an active role in shaping the laws that affect their livelihoods.
[00:23:52 - 00:28:56]  Lewie discusses The Road to Washington and becoming OOIDA’s voice for truckers. Transitioning from a life on the road to advocating on Capitol Hill wasn’t an easy decision, but Lewie knew it was necessary. He recounts the moment he decided to leave trucking full-time to take on a leadership role at OOIDA. From testifying before Congress to meeting with policymakers, Lewie describes his journey in representing truckers at the highest levels of government. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of working with lawmakers, the challenges of getting trucking issues on the national agenda, and the victories that have made a difference for truckers across the country.
[00:28:56 - 00:38:29] Lewie discusses the current state of the trucking industry and what lies ahead for owner-operators. He highlights the biggest challenges truckers face today, including regulations, parking shortages, and freight market fluctuations. He also provides advice on how truckers can navigate these challenges and stay ahead in an evolving industry. Wrapping up, Lewie emphasizes the importance of unity in the trucking community and encourages truckers to get involved in advocacy efforts to secure a better future for the industry.
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 Shelli Austin, President of InTek Freight and Logistics, Inc.
Join them as they explore:

• Shelli’s unique path from theater technology student to logistics industry leader highlights how diverse backgrounds can fuel success in freight 
• The founding of InTek, the challenges of starting a transportation company, and how complementary partnerships
• The critical role of passion and industry knowledge in freight management success, 
• The complexities of intermodal logistics and why it’s more than just “planes, trains, and automobiles
• How intermodal offers sustainable, cost-effective alternatives to traditional trucking
• Shelli’s work with the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of logistics professionals
• Predictions for the freight industry in 2025 and why adaptability and innovation will be essential for future success
  
  

Shelli Austin is the president of InTek Freight and Logistics, Inc., bringing over 25 years of experience in intermodal and drayage transportation. From her early days auditing freight bills to leading a top logistics company, Shelli has built her career on creativity, problem-solving, and a passion for the transportation industry. She is the Past Chairman and current board member of the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) and actively mentors students and young professionals through the IU Kelley School of Business Transportation Board. Shelli’s leadership focuses on integrating sustainability and innovation in freight while fostering industry collaboration.
Episode Highlights:
[00:03:08 - 00:14:07] Shelli shares her unexpected journey from studying theater technology to leading a successful logistics company. Her creative background gave her a unique problem-solving perspective that set her apart in the transportation industry. She discusses how her passion for building and creating new solutions became the foundation of her career in freight. Shelli's story emphasizes that innovation in logistics doesn't just come from technical expertise but also from the willingness to think outside the box and approach challenges with a fresh perspective.
[00:14:07 - 00:19:57] Shelli reveals the story behind founding InTek with her business partner, Rick Lagore. Despite initial skepticism, their complementary strengths, Rick's financial acumen, and Shelli's operational expertise created a strong foundation for growth. This section highlights the importance of trust, collaboration, and finding partners who fill the gaps in your skillset. Shelli also reflects on the early challenges they faced, the importance of mutual respect, and how their different strengths helped navigate the complexities of building a successful logistics company.
[00:23:52 - 00:28:56] Shelli dives into the complexities of intermodal transportation, explaining how integrating trucks, rail, and maritime shipping provides cost-effective, sustainable solutions. She emphasizes that intermodal isn’t just about moving freight—it’s about creating value for customers through expertise and tailored solutions. Shelli breaks down the critical factors that make intermodal shipping efficient, such as understanding the nuances of each transportation mode and optimizing the supply chain to deliver cost savings and environmental benefits.
[00:28:56 - 00:33:54] Shelli discusses the importance of mentorship in the logistics industry, drawing from her own experiences with influential mentors like David Ladd and Rick Lagore. Now, as a leader, she actively mentors young professionals through her work with IANA and the IU Kelley School of Business. Shelli highlights how fostering new talent not only helps individuals grow but also strengthens the entire industry by bringing in fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
[00:36:40 - 00:38:29] Shelli shares her optimistic outlook for the freight industry. She discusses how adaptability, innovation, and sustainability will be crucial for success in the evolving transportation landscape, urging professionals to embrace change and continuously seek new solutions. Shelli highlights emerging trends such as the increasing demand for sustainable logistics solutions and the role of technology in streamlining operations, offering valuable insights for businesses looking to stay ahead in the competitive freight industry.
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 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.
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